Chuck Norris, R.I.P.

 

Gene LeBell Dies At 89

Above, Gene LeBell and yours truly at the Superman Celebration in August 2014.

Gene LeBell, the "Godfather of Grappling", has died at age 89.

According to SBNation:

Judo champion and longtime Hollywood stuntman Gene LeBell passed away at age 89 on Tues. (Aug. 9) leaving behind a combat sports legacy that extends across boxing, mixed martial arts (MMA) and professional wrestling.

He was a good friend of actor George Reeves. I had the honor of meeting LeBell in 2014 at the Superman Celebration at the Beverly Garland Hotel in Studio City. 

I found him to be a very friendly and humorous man.

My condolences to his friends and family.

Mark This Off My Bucket List

Above, Amber's t-shirt showing the front (left) and mine showing the back (right). Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Another item is about to be marked off of my "bucket list",

Amber and I signed up today for some self-defense classes (karate). It has been something I've wanted to do for myself (to get exercise and prolong my life) and for Amber (for self-defense and fitness).

I had my first orientation/evaluation class today and thoroughly enjoyed it. I was admittedly winded following the warm-up calisthenics, but that faded when we got into some defensive techniques. My instructor, a rather attractive brunette, said I did good, especially with my defense block moves (said I was fast). I told her I did take defense classes when I worked armed patrol.

As we are in an initial two-week course, we were given our schedules and t-shirts (pictured above). Once we sign up (and pay) for the full 12-month course, we will be getting our uniforms and equipment.

Our first class is this coming Tuesday night. I am looking forward to it!