Merced is a truly dedicated instructor, law enforcer

It is my privilege to know John Merced, an Aberdeen resident who teaches karate and womens' self-defense. I met him at Amato's Karate and Weapons Academy, in West Keansburg. I know him to be a patient instructor, who is a real pro at it, and he has real concern for students.

John is a detective sergeant in North Jersey. He started womens' self-defense classes several years ago, and his commitment to this is phenomenal. The Independent did a great story about it, which I recommend to anyone considering taking karate (he teaches co-ed classes at Amato's too) or for women interested in self-defense.

Click into the headline to go to The Independent.