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About Us
Ohana is the Hawaiian word for family. It is in the spirit of ‘ohana that Libby & Tom Hill and their dedicated staff open Family Karate, the ‘Ohana Dojo, and invite all who share in that spirit to join us. Family Karate is a community of martial artists of all skill levels striving to be stronger physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually through training in martial arts. We conduct our training in a supportive family atmosphere. We believe training in such a manner not only creates stronger individuals but stronger families, and ultimately creates a larger family of which we are all a part. If you're interested in learning more about Family Karate, give us a call 440-255-7300 or email us with questions! |
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Over the last two years, Lake County karate families have voted Family Karate the top martial arts school in the Cleveland area and Lake County. Help us spread the word about Family Karate by voting for us again in 2009!
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Meet the Staff
July 22 2010
MEET THE FAMILY KARATE STAFF
 Rita McKinney Karate Li’l Dragons |
Sensei Rita started karate in 1991 and achieved black belt in 1995. She currently is a Yodan or 4th degree black belt. Sensei Rita is the Head Instructor at Family Karate and run the Lil’ Dragons and Junior Dragons programs. She has been the principle instructor for Family Karate’s outreach programs at area day cares and nursery schools for over six years.
Sensei Rita loves to teach all ages, but the kids are her primary motivation. Her hobbies are painting, photography, and shopping especially at the Disney Store! |
 Libby Hill Karate Li’l Dragons Cardio-karate Tai Chi |
Libby is a Yodan, fourth degree black belt, who has been studying Kajukenpo for 16 years and previously studied Hapkido for 2 years. She has also studied Tai Chi Chuan and is a certified instructor of Tai Chi from the Arthritis Foundation and Beginners Tai Chi. In addition to teaching the Junior Warriors, teens and adults Kajukenpo karate, she instructs Lil’ Dragons, cardioKarate, and Tai Chi Chuan. Libby is the General Manager of Family Karate. She is the mother of 2 sons as well as Sensei Mom to countless other people. Sensei Libby volunteers for the National MS Society, the Arthritis Foundation and the local chambers of commerce. She is currently a board member for the Painesville Area Chamber of Commerce. In her spare time she plays with her 3 dogs, enjoys puzzle games, and gardens. |
| Master Gene Kleckner Taekwondo Weapons |
Gene began studying Karate when attending Lakeland Community College under Masters Molesch and Feldman. There he obtained his 1st Gup ranking. He then took a break from training to obtain his academic degrees. Eight years later he began training again, this time accompanied by his son and later by his daughter. He resumed training with Master Molesch where he obtained his 4th Dan ranking. Master Molesch impressed upon him the artistry aspect of martial arts and remaining true to a core set of beliefs. Teaching others provides great satisfaction and a sense of pride along with providing benefits to society. |
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Sensei Jim is a Nidan or 2nd degree black belt. In addition to teaching juniors and adults, he heads up Team ‘Ohana, Family Karate’s demonstration team. Sensei Jim graduated from Hiram College and works at Thomas Hill Investment Services. He is married to Sarah Gilmore and they live in Painesville. Sensei Jim loves movies and music. |
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Sensei Tom began in the martial arts with his wife, Sensei Libby, and his 2 sons 16 years ago. He is currently a Sandan, 3rd degree black belt. Sensei Tom primarily teaches the novice level karate students, cardioKarate, and assists with Team ‘Ohana, the demonstration team. Outside the dojo Sensei Tom is an independent broker with Thomas Hill Investment Services. You will also see him performing in area community theaters. Most recently at the Geauga Lyric Theater in A Christmas Carol and at the Fine Arts Association in The Fantasticks. He has volunteered for United Way of Lake County for over 15 years. |
 Larry Rizzo Karate, Yoga |
Sensei Larry has been studying and practicing Kajukenpo for 10 years. He has been interested in martial arts since he was 22. Besides teaching karate, he teaches yoga in the mornings and substitutes for Amy Rymers.Sensei Larry is very proud of his family, wife, Lori and son, Joey. He is Family Karate’s resident expert in organic and nutritious food! |
 Alex Miller Karate |
Sensei Alex is a Nidan, 2nd degree Black Belt. He is an enthusiastic instructor and often assists with the birthday parties. He has been studying the martial arts for over 9 years.
Alex is a student at Willoughby South High School where is is involved in Key Club and National Honor Society. He enjoys history, politics, and fishing with his dad, Sensei Steve. |
 Laura McBride Karate Li’l Dragons Cardio |
Sensei Laura has returned from a missionary trip to Uganda. She completed her Masters of Theology from St. Mary’s Seminary in Wickliffe in May 2009. |
 Laura Bower Karate 40+ Karate |
Sensei Laura, a Nidan, 2nd degree Black Belt has been involved in the martial arts for 9 years. She assists teaching 40+ Karate and the Advanced Belt classes. Laura works for University Hospitals at an X-ray Technologist. She has a beautiful daughter, Patty Spooner. |
| Julia Kuhlman Karate |
Sensei Julia enjoys music and drama at Madison High School. She is a Shodan and has been a student at Family Karate for 5 years. |
| Chelsea Soble Karate Lil’ Dragons |
Sensei Chelsea has been involved with karate for 7 years. She teaches all ages including the 3 - 6 year-olds. She enjoys helping with Team ‘Ohana and is Family Karate’s resident fan expert. |
Patty Spooner |
Sensei Patty is currently working as a pet groomer. She is attending Lakeland Community College. |