(NewMediaWire) - January 21, 2016 - Burbank, CA – On January 23, the Martial Arts History Museum will be honoring one of the icons of the martial arts industry, Dennis Ichikawa. Ichikawa was one of the early pioneers of bringing the Korean art of Tang Soo Do into the public eye as he opened a variety of schools in the Southern California area. The two-hour ceremony will take place at 4 pm at the Martial Arts History Museum in Burbank, CA.

Ichikawa, an instructor of the Chuck Norris System, has produced over 900 students who have reached the level of black belt. A former tournament forms and pointfighting competitor, he began his martial arts career in 1970. In 1974, along with Harold Gross, Ichikawa opened his first school in Tarzana, CA.

Dennis Ichikawa's two schools have had a major impact on the community. Through various children's programs, he has inspired young kids to reach new goals and gain confidence and creativity.

“The martial arts can do a lot for young children. It's not about violence, but it enables you to become more confident so you don't have to resort to violence. It creates goal-oriented frames of mind to inspire young people to continue studying to reach a new belt level. It's always wonderful to know how to defend yourself, especially in today's society, but not having to use it is even better,” notes museum president Michael Matsuda.

January 23 is dedicated as Dennis Ichikawa Day at the Museum. Filled with friends, students and more, the Museum features a two-hour presentation of the life of Ichikawa and encourages all those who have trained and learned from him, to pay their respects.

“We are not getting any younger, and so many from our community are passing away. Don't let the opportunity to say a final thank you pass you by. Take the time, fly in for the event, if you have studied or if Ichikawa has made an impact on your life, you need to be here,” adds Matsuda.

The event will take place at the Museum at 4 pm. Address is 2319 W. Magnolia Blvd., Bubank, CA 91506. For info, visit Mamuseum.com. Cost is only $10.