Palusut (and others);
Nice question; blunt but respectful.
I resigned from the IMAF several weeks ago. My reasons were 1)financial strain in traveling to events 2) use of time for same 3) differing direction from the oragnization (see below) and 4) re-evaluation of my priorities.
Jeff, like many others in the Modern Arnis family, has never been anything but a good friend to me, and we parted ways on good terms. I will say for the record that I believe Jeff, like many others, is honoring his obligations to the Professor in the manner he believes best. (and I will not say any more on this point).
My decision to leave is independant of, and unrelated to Mr. Bates departure; while we are geographically close my operation and his have always been independant.
Essentially I realized that I was spending far too much time away, and that both my home life and my own students were suffering for it. I am a full-time LEO with additional on-call obligations, and could not/can not continue to use what down time I get traveling to camps and events all over the country. Additionally, I have become increasingly involved in training in Sayoc Kali locally, and this is really where I want to invest my personal training time and energy.
I have stayed silent on almost all of the issues that have come up regarding Jeff's group; I have my opinions but am electing not to share them; sorry. I am not, nor was I ever, a spokesman for the group, and it would be inappropriate for me to take on the role now that I have left.
As far as being 'welcomed back' by the IMAF/MoTTs I dont intend to go that route. Within that group as well are many people who have been nothing but good to me through the years, have respected my choices, and have kept the lines of communication open (most notably Brian Z.; a real gentleman and a true credit to Professor). The same comments apply; I think most involved are doing their best to honor their obligations to Professor as best they can.
I don't know if I have answered your question completely or not; if I can add anything let me know.
Chad
PS- my own school/training group/whatever you want to call it, Delaware Modern Arnis is, and has always been, open to anyone of any affiliation who wants to train in the Professor's art; we are located near I95 in Wilmington ( about 25 minutes from Center City Philly- traffic cooperating- and- ideal road conditions- an hour from Baltimore)
:drinkbeer