Five years ago, Sensei Kevin Smith ran several martial arts schools in New Orleans. He never imagined he and his family would one day call Florence home.
We talked to Kevin at his new karate and self-defense school in Florence about that day five years ago when Hurricane Katrina chased them from New Orleans. "When they said category five - my wife said, 'We got to go.'"
So the Smith family drove 12 hours to Florence to be with relatives to wait out the storm. Kevin recounted a conversation with his wife as they watched Katrina's devastation unfold. "We were looking in the news, and they said that the military base was under water. So I said, 'Did I hear that right?' She said, 'yes.' And I said, 'Our house is gone.'"
The Smiths lost everything, their home and the five martial arts schools Kevin operated. "I use my martial arts for strength. I teach my students to deal with adversity."
Kevin had to put that lesson into practice. He opened a karate and self defense school in Florence. The school is successful and helps him earn a living for his wife and two kids in a place that welcomed them with open arms from day one. "People knocked on the door from Florence. Don't know how they found us, but they knew we were here. They bought us food, shelter and clothing."
From that moment, Sensei Smith says he knew Florence was where he needed to be. "Florence means to me new beginnings. New discovery of self and mission."
Kevin went back to New Orleans in March to visit his mother and relatives, who are still there. He tries to get back at least once or twice a year.
Kevin is now producing a self-defense video. A portion of the proceeds will help Hurricane Katrina survivors.
