RAD Strengthened Those Who Attended

Antonia Florence, staff writer

The Self-Defense Workshop fundraiser was a success. The event was held in mid-October and sponsored by and benefiting the Radiography Club. It was open to anyone who wanted to learn more about defending themselves while in potentially dangerous situations.

After a short welcome and introduction, the workshop began. Nicole Winkler, Piedmont Virginia Community College Radiography Program director, is also a first degree Shodan Black-Belt Instructor in Okinawan Kempo martial arts with experience in Taekwondo and Jujitsu.

She, along with Corey Lewis, were the instructors. Lewis is also a first degree Shodan Black-Belt Instructor in Okinawan Kempo martial arts but with experience in Mixed Martial Arts and Jujitsu.

After a short lecture addressing prevention and awareness, different live case scenarios were practiced.

“Being grabbed from behind or from the front by your shirt by an assailant were two of several scenarios discussed and strategies practiced to safely escape harm in these situations,” wrote Victoria Stow via email.

After detailed instructions, demonstrations and hands-on group work with targets as well as advanced techniques were exhibited by Winkler and Lewis. A short question and answer session rounded out the workshop.

While this was the first workshop of its kind sponsored by the RAD club, Stow said, “[It] may be repeated by upcoming classes in their fundraising efforts. Nicole and Cory did a fantastic job.”