I have been in the business of teaching self-defense for many years having had the privilege of working with tens of thousands of people from all walks of life. Clients include agents from the FBI, Secret Service and Law Enforcement Departments. My clients are law-abiding citizens looking for the best way to protect themselves including companies, employees, families, singles, students, new moms and senior citizens.

Professional memberships include American Society of Law Enforcement Trainers, NRA, American Women's Self-Defense Organization, Infragard, High Tech Crime Investigation Association, National Range Officers Association, NATAS and the National Speakers Association. In addition, I am a member of the Board of Directors for the Charlotte, NC Crime Stoppers and am a graduate of the FBI Citizens Academy.

I can be seen weekly on WCNC-TV News, "Don't Be A Victim" and "Partners Against Crime."   Having been nominated seven times, in February 2003 I won an Emmy Award from the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Mid-South Chapter in the Public Affairs Division for a "Don't Be A Victim" series. I was a weekly host on WBT 1110 AM News Talk Radio, "Starks Reality" and am frequently heard on various radio stations dealing with issues of self-protection and crime. I write a weekly Personal Safety column for the Charlotte Observer. I am also employed as an Expert Material Witness.

I offer customized self-defense courses through Starks Training Institute, Inc. that are designed to provide skills necessary to avoid becoming a victim or surviving if an assault becomes inevitable.

Some of the courses Starks Training Institute offers include:

• Parent/Youth Course designed for young adults preparing for college, the first job, driving, etc.

• Corporate/Business Seminars designed to teach self-defense to employees both off and on the job.

• Avoiding Workplace Violence, including a security analysis of the environment.

• A four-hour Safety & Awareness Course incorporating the use of fundamental "break away" self-defense techniques in addition to the use of various tools such as OC Pepper Foam.

• Firearms training including the North Carolina Concealed Carry Course.

• Realtor Safety Courses.

This is a partial list of programs available. Most are custom designed to meet the specific needs of any group. It is my belief that we must all address the issue of protection, regardless of race, gender, religion or social position, as we are all inventory for the criminal.

Self-defense is a way of life. You must formulate a plan to protect yourself in any situation enabling you to live a life free of many fears, equipped to handle most situations. This is not a difficult choice. The time to make that choice is now , before you become a victim! Ultimately, your plan for self-protection must be both immediate and effective. Take time now to begin this process.