By Darrel Wheeler, Contributing Writer
After the United Karate Federation’s big anniversary celebration in August, the UKF committee of organizers wanted to address one more person on their very busy to-do list.
“We felt the need to honor a very special friend to our martial arts society. A man that has sponsored and helped the UKF experience with his many financial contributions and his lead-by-example approach,” UKF’s Grandmaster Orned “Chicken” Gabriel sheared.
Mr. Larry Price, aka Lorenzo, received an Honorary Black Belt from the UKF and a Certificate of Recognition from City of Lemon Grove Mayor Raquel Vasquez for his outstanding commitment to his community.
“I appreciate the blackbelt and the certificate. It means a lot to me,” Larry “Paws of Fury” Price shared. “I’ve always been willing to help UKF, especially their kids. Some of the kids didn’t always have the financial means to pursue their martial arts aspirations. I don’t do anything for recognition. I helped people because it’s in my heart to help those in need but I really do appreciate the acknowledgments I have received. Thanks.”
Larry is the founder and director of the Never Leave One Behind Veterans Organization.
“I really respect and admire Chicken for all the hard work he put in for over fifty years. The brother is definitely a hard worker that truly cares about people,” Price said
He saw UKF’s vision and agreed to help finance the opening of the first Black-owned martial-arts studio in Point Loma, way back in the early 1970s.
“It’s people like Larry, Billy Moore of ABC, Ernie’s Auto Dealers, Pastor Warren, Voice & Viewpoint, The Hatcher fFamily and so many others that help us in so many ways, including my dedicated staff of diligent workers: Delores Gaines, Lavonda McIntyre and Jacqulyn Jackson. Praise the Lord,” Grand Master Orned “Chicken” Gabriel said.
