He began studying Hapkido in 1979 with Master Joe Sheya, at his original dojon in Annapolis, Maryland. Despite breaks for marriage, children and retuning to school in Oregon, Hapkido has remained a stable source of peace and stability throughout a busy and joyful life. He finally earned his first Black Belt in 2006. This has opened many doors on the beauty of the higher Hapkido motions, and into a fascinating world of connection and effect.