NEW YORK CITY, N.Y. - On Saturday October 19, 2019, AAU National Treasurer and long-time AAU Karate National Chair Jo Mirza received the Thomas La Puppet Carroll Award for "Outstanding Contributions to Urban America through the Transcendent Power of Karate-Do" at the New Breed Life Arts' (NBLA) Martial Arts Hall of Fame ceremony in the Village of Harlem, New York City.
 
La Puppet is considered to be the greatest fighter in the history of New York City martial arts. He received his training at the Legendary Tong Dojo. Puppet rose to national acclaim and was inducted into the famous Black Belt Magazine Hall of Fame as the Fighter of the Year.
 
He used his tremendous stature to open doors of understanding across this nation and was an astounding supporter of amateur athletic programs.       
 
In many ways, Mirza has carried the banner of unity and development across country and continents. He is a living example of the life and mission of Thomas La Puppet Carroll.
 
In addition to receiving the La Puppet Award,  Mirza was inducted into the NBLA Hall of Fame that night; where he took his place among the great legends of East Coast Martial Arts.