Mr. Licata is a certified instructor in the art of Nihon Goshin Aikido. He is a member of the US NGA Association headed by Shihan Richard Bowe and headquarterd in North Bergen New Jersey. He has also trained in traditional Aikido, Judo, and Wrestling. He believes in Hoshin's Empty Your Cup philosophy, and emphasizes the need for martial artists to train with many instructors and in many styles.

Mr. Licata believes in the true spirit of aiki -- love.
He believes that martial artists must be good citizens. They must be caring and compassionate, and must pass on to others what they have received.

He gives back to the community as a member of the Newburgh Rotary Club and a volunteer and member of the Board of Directors of the Orange County United Way. He gives back to others by passing along the spirit of aiki.

Some martial arts instructors believe the way to build character is by breaking someone's spirit. Mr. Licata believes that the way to build character is by boosting one's spirit. Therefore, he strives to make his Aikido classes light hearted and fun for all.