On Jan. 26, members of the Appalachian Chapter of International Association of Administrative Professionals received self defense tips to get away from an attacker. Scott Murphy was the guest speaker. He is a nationally certified instructor in the American Taekwondo Association, is a fifth degree black belt, and owner of Canton ATA Martial Arts.

During his program he taught members to practice some of the basic moves to help you get out of a situation if being grabbed and choked. He also explained his philosophy as a martial arts instructor is to teach fitness and self-defense as well as training students mentally and helping them develop life skills such as discipline, confidence, respect, and perseverance.

The Appalachian Chapter of IAAP is an association for administrative professionals to network, continually learn, and be a support system. The chapter meets the fourth Tuesday each month at various locations in Pickens and Cherokee Counties and serves the area of Fannin, Gilmer, Gordon, Pickens, Dawson and Cherokee. For more information about the association you can contact Membership Chair Linda Jones CPS/CAP at 706-253-5268 or email her at lindaj@amicalolaemc.com or President Rena Morris CPS/CAP at 678-493-6260 or email rena@brjc.net.