Caveat emptor (buyer beware)

In trying to stay up to date on my teaching and my art, I subscribe to numerous blogs, websites and Twitter accounts. I read up on news articles and training articles. I recently came across a video of what was reported to be a black belt test in NYC. The representation was so bad, there was debate on whether the video was meant as a joke or was serious. Now it is not for me to question anyone else's training or skill. I did however want to note that if you are signing up for any kind of class, whether it is martial arts or pottery you should gather information before making a decision.  Research your instructors and verify their credentials. Visit more then one school. Ask everyone you know for recommendations. You may save a few bucks initially,  but end up in a school  totally inappropriate for what you want. Know the differences between the different martial arts. Is the school geared toward the art or competition?  Is it ground and pound or all forms?  Who teaches the classes?  Meet them before you start. Watch a class or two. Take an intro lesson. It is your money and your body, make sure you are getting everything you want from your classes.