Action Martial Arts Magazine #75 by Action Martial Arts Magazine

Publisher : Master Alan Goldberg Editor : Dr. Michael Willett Editor To The Chinese Martial Arts : Sifu Abdulmuhsiy Abdurrahman Touring Editor : R. J. Bishop , Video Historian : Grm Jim Brassard Asst. Editor : Ron Bongardino , MMA Editor : Master John Burdyck Central USA Rep. : Master Richard Plowden , New England Rep: Scott Bray Public Relations : Louis Velazquez Web Design & Advertising : Sensei Ross Greenberg Sr. Exec. Director Trade Show & Expo : Grm. Peter Ticali

Running Contributing Columnist Martial Arts Talk : Jung Shee James Lacy / Docs Report : Grmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Robert Braff Nancy Robinson, Grmaster Buddy Van Bovan , Susan Friedman Diaz , Kimberly K. White Contributing Goodwill Ambassadors

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Grand Master Pierre Rene

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It began in the year 1955, when an air plane arriving at International Airport landed. On this plane, his parents, brother and he had just arrived from a small island in the West Indies called Haiti. He had departed from the capital of Haiti, Port-Au-Prince, where he was born. The United States had many surprises for newly arriving foreigners. They of course (or should I say his father) picked Brooklyn, New York to live in. The land of opportunity they called it. As the years sped by, they were made aware of the ever lurking danger the streets offered for little or nothing. The merciless streets were ever prepared to take advantage of any and all persons not in tune with this particular environment. Unable to speak English, his family and he had to learn things the hard way. As he recalls, they were always being harassed in one form or another. He found himself fighting to protect not only his dignity and his family's, but very often his life. It was hard enough growing up in New York as a New York, but as a foreigner unable to communicate, his problems were greatly exacerbated. He soon began attending Catholic Elementary School, which was relatively easier than the Public School system he had been introduced to. Attending High School (Wingate, Erasmus and Andrew Jackson) soon showed him that he would need to know something other than book learning. It was during this time that he was introduced to the Martial Arts. His first contact with it was made when he was invited to go along with some friends to watch a Judo demonstration. He'll never forget the feeling that was introduced to him that day. He was greatly impressed with the discipline, respect and control the probationers used, but yet something appeared to be missing. He was never one for letting someone grab him or even get that close. The kids in school had taught him only too well what happens to a person who allows someone to walk upon him. It was at this time that a friend of his who knew Karate asked him if he wanted to learn. That meant that he had to give up hanging out, jitterbugging and starting trouble. By this time he was totally unable to cope with the school system, so he left school in the 11th grade. That was in 1964. One

year later(1965) he was drafted into the U.S. Army. The Army played a crucial part in his Karate life. Here he was able to further the Art without much interruption. The Green Hornet was being aired on T. V. at this time. He was sent to Vietnam, and after returning stateside, he made up his mind to continue his studies in the Art. He received an Honorable Discharge in 1967. To his surprise, when he returned, his brothers were also involved. They were, in his opinion, attending one of the greatest schools, and without a doubt, were being taught by the greatest practitioner then. He was referring here to Grandmaster George Cofield. Due to reasons of their own, his brothers (Hodelin, Serge and Bobby Rene) had opened their own school under the guidance of his brother Hodelin. He soon learned the art of Sho-To-Kan which he had not previously been familiar with. He had been a Chinese practitioner all this time. Learning the terminology of this art came after years of practicing. Because of relocation, his brother was forced to close his school. This left him with one thought in mind. That was to open his own school and pick up where his brother had left off. Shortly thereafter, he was teaching all over New York and participating in tournaments along with his students. Since that time, he has practiced and taught the Art in many institutions: The New York Police Academy, The Y.M.CA, Banks, Schools and Colleges (one of which he received his B. S. in Sociology from). He initiated and taught the Medgar Evers Karate Club. He deeply feels that without the perseverance and determination of such practitioners as: George Cofield, Ron Van Clief (who, incidentally, he feels is a very special person), Moses Powell, Louis Neglia, Thomas Louis, Thomas LaPuppet, Leon Wallace, Ted Mills (of Blue Magic), Fed Hamilton, his brother and many, many more, the Art would not be where it is today. He , on the other hand, has benefited in terms of social, physical and economic growth. He believes wholeheartedly that without the Martial Arts there will be no future. As the slogan says, "We are the masters of our destiny." He says, "We must learn to master ourselves first, before mastering our destinies

In the 1970's he pulled together a team of fighters who were the only team good enough to go toe to toe with the fiercest fighters of that decade, the notorious "Bando" fighters of the mid-Atlantic east coast. In the 1980's he put together a team of fighters who consistently stole the show as they represented New York State and battled their way to championships in what was once the showcase for the best martial arts talent in the world "Oriental World of Self Defense." In the 90's he has added on to his legacy , starting anew here in Orlando. Another city, another legend built upon the same values and principles as the others-commitment, hard work, and practice, practice, practice!!! Professor Pierre continues a long and distinguished career in teaching youth (and also adults) the rigors of self-dicipline. He received his 10th Degree Red Belt in 1981 at the Oriental World of Self Defense in Madison Square Garden , A Full Contact Lightweight Karate Champion Ranked 3rd in the world in 1978, and a recipient of the"Key to the City" from New York City Brooklyn borough president Howard Golden( 1983) for his work with the youth of New York City. Now in Orlando, Men women and children can learn the art of Karate from one of the greatest teachers in America, Professor Pierre Rene is a member of Masters in Action and the East Coast Hall of Fame. Prof. has served as the ambassador for the W.P.KO (World Professional Karate Organization). He is the founder and president of the U.S.P.K.H (United States Professional Karate Headquarters), he is also one of the founding fathers of the ASA (American Sho-To-Kan Association). Kyoshi Pierre has hosted his very own Karate Hall of Fame inducting martial masters such as Ron Austin, Ron Jeter, Larry (Thunderfoot) Cureton, Warrior Prince, Little K.A and many more. During his career, he organized seminars, festival, promoted youth development with inner city organizations and law enforcement, and put on hundreds of exhibitons-not to mention the thousands of children Professor Pierre has mentored over fourty-nine years of teaching. Professor Pierre Rene's method of teaching Karate has helped Adults as well as children, including those struggling with Attention Deficit Disorder, hyperactivity and behavioral problems, to put selfdisipline, self control, self-confidence, concentration, perseverance and an understanding of commitment

into their lives. Values that strengthen the spirit andthe mind and develops the confidence to face whatever challenges life presents Some of his achievements and Honors : Publisher of Martial Arts Warrior Online Magazine , Instructor for Self-Defense Program, Orange County Parks and Recreation, Orlando FL -2006 , Created, hosted and produced a television show called "Masters of the Martial Arts" â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2005, Recognized by author Doti Wynn in her book, titled "Live Life, Love Life" - 2005 Founder of Central Florida Martial Arts Hall of Fame - 2004 Founder of Chinese Shotokan, ( a martial arts system) 2001 Martial Arts Teacher for New York City Police Auxiliary-1989 Affiliated with several movies, including "One Down and Two To Go" (1981) and "The Last Dragon" 1988 Coach and Trainer of Full Contact Team -1984 , Former US Light Weight Champion and 3 rd time World Champion -1983 , Appeared on ABC Wide World of Sports, Sports World and The Oriental World of Self Defense-1982 , Martial Arts Champion, Oriental World of Self Defense -1980 , One of the founding fathers of American Sho- To-Kan Association -1977. Founder and President of The United States. Professional Karate Headquarters 1972 â&#x20AC;˘ Founder of Karate Club at Medgar Evers College -1972 , Received a proclamation from each elected official: Governor Charlie Christ, State Senator Gary Siplin, Orange County Mayor Richard Crotty, and Orange County Commissioner Tiffany Moore, Declaring November 15 Martial Arts Day. Hosted the first Martial Arts Parade in the state of Florida which is now held annually. Nominated as "Black Achiever" by Orange County government, (Orlando, FL) during Black History Month - 2005 Nominee for Orlando's Hometown Hero by radio station Star 94.5 -1999 Awarded the "Key to the City" by President Howard Golden, Brooklyn New York -1983 Ambassador of World Professional Karate Organization -1982 Received highest rank (10 th Degree) of martial arts in Madison Square Garden 1981 Cited by New York City Deputy Police Commissioner William Perry -1981 A Full Contact Lightweight Karate Champion Ranked 3 rd in the world 1978 First Black Martial Artist inducted into the "East Coast Hall of Fame" and "Masters In Action Hall of Fame" 1977 , 2008 Action Martial Arts Magazine hall of Honors -Acquired the title "Professor" from the Black Dragon University of Arts and Science -1977

Cynthia Rothrock , Michael Jai. White . Bill Wallace , Joe Piscopo , Joe Lewis, Phil Morris . Hank Garett , Don Wilson, Jeff Speakman, James Lew, Christine B. Rodriques . Olando Rivera, Jason Lau . Chuck Zito, Oaktree Edwards . Ronald Duncan . ,Dan Severen , Gary Alexander , Bernard Kerik, Stephen Hayes, John Pelligrini , Mike DePasquale Jr., David Toma, Jeff Smith, Mike Willett, Gary Wasniewski, Je Han Jae, (WWF fame & M.A. ) Chris Tanaka & Satoshi Sasaki & More of your favorites ( All guests appearances have been confirmed, but are subject to their Schedules )

January 8 & 9, 2010 * FREE Seminars 1/9 8 AM–2 At The World Famous Tropicana Casino & Resort

Atlantic City New Jersey (4th Floor North Tower)

24 Free Seminars By some of the Worlds Best

Jan 9, 2010 Hall of Honors Banquet Sunday Jan 10 At the Chelsea Hotel . KI Open M A Tournament (KempoInti@live.se)

Known As The “Academy Awards of Martial Arts” For the 10Th year in a row, the Banquet of 2010 looks like it will again be a huge success. It is sure to be sold out, So don’t hesitate and send your paper work in ASAP, come on down and join us.Be part of history. The Tropicana has given us a space in the North Tower to run our World Famous seminars. We will also have a limited area for vendor spaces. It wont be our usual event but Action wants to give back to our dedicated community by offering the seminars FREE and OPEN to all Martial Artists or just fans.” So come down and join us and be part of the Action. Dinner Guest have VIP Access to full event. Thank you and keep your eyes Open Sincerely Alan Goldberg For More Information Call or Contact Master Alan Goldberg

718 856 –8070

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WORLDS LARGEST & MOST ELITE MARTIAL ARTS EVENT OF ITS KIND

Tournament Coverage

15th MOUNTAIN VIEW OPEN By R.J. Bishop

www.RJbishop.com Hickory, NC Recently in the quaint, beautiful town of Hickory, NC one of the East Coast’s best Martial Arts extravaganzas was held. I’m talking about SHIHAN DOUG ARMSTRONG’S 15TH ANNUAL MOUNTAIN VIEW OPEN. This is one of 2-3 tournaments I really enjoy attending because of its hospitality, location, and organization. DOUG ARMSTRONG does things the right way and doesn’t cut corners like some others do. He goes all out to make everyone feel like a friend or family member. When you come to Hickory you need to stay at least three days to enjoy all the activities SHIHAN ARMSTRONG has planned.

SIGMON entertained all by singing Karaoke. I don’t know if he can sing but I was told it was hilarious. I love to sing Karaoke and I’m disappointed I did not stick around to join in on the fun. The winner of the MOUNTAIN VIEW OPEN Poker Tournament was DOUG ARMSTRONG, his 1st win ever. SATURDAY ELIMINATIONS What a huge group of competitors they had that day. I estimate between 400-450 competitors showed up to support

FRIDAY NIGHT The Friday competition was held at the spacious Hickory Metro Convention Center, a superior building to hold such an

event. Friday night was for the specialty divisions, such as Continuous Sparring, Self Defense, Musical Weapons, and Musical Forms. A decent crowd was in attendance that night so that made it an exciting night of competition. The better Musical divisions were dominated by an outstanding group of competitors from Jesup, GA known as TEAM STRIKE FORCE. TEAM FX of Martinsville, VA and DOUG ARMSTRONG’S TEAM MVKC also exhibited a fine group of competitors. Under Belt Superstar HALEIGH KANIPE of TEAM MVKC was most impressive in her musical divisions as was her main rival JAYDEN “BIG DAWG” MOORE. The divisions ran smoothly and without controversy and we were out of there by 9:30 pm. Following the competition it was time for the annual MOUNTAIN VIEW OPEN Poker Game held down the road at Buffalo Wild

Wings. Buffalo Wild Wings is a great restaurant and watering hole and they bent over backwards to give us top notch service. Although I left early I heard that World Champion CASS

SHIHAN ARMSTRONG. Hickory Mayor RUDY WRIGHT addressed the audience and welcomed them to the 15th Annual MOUNTAIN VIEW OPEN. Following the mayor SHIHAN ARMSTRONG recognized many of his own Black Belts in attendance as well as the judges and other notable VIP’S. Congratulations to CASS SIGMON for his induction into the MOUNTAIN VIEW OPEN HALL OF FAME. SIGMON was the junior entry. Another World Champion JOEY SHIFLETT of Columbia, SC was the adult entry in the MOUNTAIN VIEW OPEN HALL OF FAME. GRAND MASTER DONALD McCLUNEY was the winner of the Life Time Achievement Award. Two weeks prior to the MOUNTAIN VIEW OPEN a dear friend of the Sport Karate world JOHN PLUNKETT passed away in a car accident. PLUNKETT was Co President of the MATT Sport Karate organization and was at almost all of the tournaments here in the area helping any way he could. He would help set up the tournament and tear it down afterwards. He and his wife DEE helped in organizing many of the tournaments. JOHN PLUNKETT was a hard working, kind man dedicated to his family and the Martial Arts world. JOHN PLUNKETT was also DOUG ARMSTRONG’S best friend and he was quite emotional throughout the tournament. COREY WAITERS and DONALD McCLUNEY representing the DOJO Sport Karate Organization presented DEE and KAYLEE with a check from their organization to go towards KAYLEE’S college fund. John was loved and respected by people of many karate organizations. To recognize PLUNKETT’S accomplishments SHIHAN ARMSTRONG renamed the MOUNTAIN VIEW OPEN Golf his daughter KAYLEE’S college education. The 1st JOHN PLUNKETT MEMORIAL AWARD was created and it will go annually to someone who helps out at a lot of tournaments, and

Tournament Coverage is dedicated to the Martial Arts. The winners of the 1st annual JOHN PLUNKETT MEMORIAL AWARD were DEE and KAYLEE PLUNKETT. There certainly were not many dry eyes in the room at that point. Next came the prayer by REV. PHIL ADDISON, and playing our national anthem on the keyboards was DR. MARK LAUGHLIN, a talented pianist and Martial Artist. The Honor Guard for the day was Boy Scout Troop 264 of Granite Fall, NC. The Saturday eliminations went very well, and most rings ran all day except for the judges’ lunch break. The judging was exceptional as always, We are lucky to have such a fine group of officials here in the Southeast. The breaking divisions proved to be another crowd pleaser that afternoon. DOUG ARMSTRONG’S MOUNTAIN VIEW KARATE CENTER is a huge breaking school, and they are almost obsessed with it. SHIHAN ARMSTRONG himself is an NBL World Breaking Champion and has coached numerous World Champions over the years. This year TEAM MVKC again dominated the breaking divisions. This year’s most impressive breaker has been REV. PHIL ADDISON of TEAM MVKC, a future

BROOK STIPES took home the Jr. Black Belt Contemporary Forms Grand Championship. MONIQUE BYRD of TEAM BOAK continued her dominance in the advanced division by winning the Advanced Forms Grand Championship. BYRD is a talented and powerful performer and should be a force in the Jr. Black Belt division someday. NATHAN BELL of TEAM KARATE DOJO won another Novice Grand Championship for 2009. He is way too good for the Novice division and really needs to compete in the Intermediate division. DAN MARSHALL of Columbia, SC withstood some stiff competition to win the 18+ Black Belt Traditional Kata Grand Championship. One of the best competitions of the day was in the 18+ Black Belt Contemporary Forms Grand Championships. Two great World Champions ASHLEY ARTESE and JEFF “SUSHI” DOSS showed everyone that you can perform a great contemporary form without all the goofy gymnastic tricks. Both competitors were at the top of their game and actually they tied once. But when the dust settled JEFF “SUSHI” DOSS went back to Rustburg, VA with the 18+ Black Belt Contemporary Forms Grand Championship. NATE WINDSOR of TEAM SMA easily won the 18-34 Men’s Sparring Grand Championship by beating RYAN FRYE 8-2. FRYE came back later to win the 35+ Men’s Sparring Grand Championship. After the event finished many of the tournament players and staff met at Iron Thunder Saloon for the post tournament party. The JOHN PLUNKETT MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT was held the next day at the local Golf course. Overall I pick the 15th annual MOUNTAIN VIEW OPEN as the BEST tournament of 2009. For those of you that have never attended the MOUNTAIN VIEW OPEN I urge you to put it on your tournament calendar for 2010. Congratulations to SHIHAN DOUG ARMSTRONG and his staff for producing another memorable event.

BLACK WARRIOR MARTIAL ARTS CHAMPIONSHIP Concord, NC

breaking World Champion. ADDISON’S breaks were off the charts and with his charisma and showmanship he easily won his division and the adult Black Belt Breaking Grand Championship. MATTHEW McCONNELL was also impressive on the youth side of the breaking, and he went home with the Jr. Black Belt Breaking Grand Championship. One of the best stories of the afternoon was the performances of TEAM STRIKE FORCE members SCOTTIE “TOO HOTTIE” PERKINS and GABE “THE ANIMAL” GRUSE. These young men are brothers and it was the 1st Grand Championship for both boys in their new rank. SCOTTIE, a blue belt, and GABE, a new Black Belt, were on cloud nine after their wins. Their folks were so proud of them that afternoon as were the rest of the team. Another TEAM STRIKE FORCE member

The 3rd Annual BLACK WARRIOR MARTIAL ARTS CHAMPIONSHIP was recently held at the Central Cabarrus High School in Concord, NC. This highly efficient 200+ division event was sanctioned by the DOJO, MATT and SKI Sport Karate organizations. The BLACK WARRIOR MARTIAL ARTS CHAMPIONSHIP is the pride and joy of GRAND MASTER ERNEST DUKES of the DUKES MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY of Concord. For three consecutive years this tournament has run with incredible

Tournament Coverage efficiency, and it is one I truly enjoy attending. Security was very tight in order to keep non martial arts people off the competition floor. I found it easier to move around from ring to ring to do my job. They had several vendors in the lobby area to include my editor DR. MICHAEL WILLETT and his ACTION PHOTOGRAPHY booth. The tournament cuisine was 2nd to none. Oh sure they had the usual Hot Dogs and Burgers but also featured Southern Bar-BQ pork, Lasagna and Chicken Strip meals. The food was delicious and reasonably priced. Special guest for the day was that Super Hero the “BLACK WARRIOR”. The WARRIOR ventured through the spectators signing autographs and posing for pictures and handing out prizes. The BLACK WARRIOR MARTIAL ARTS CHAMPIONSHIP even provided FREE child care for the little ones. What a wonderful idea, an idea that more Promoters should consider. Great cash awards were given to all the Grand Championship winners, Black Belt and Under Belt, youth and adult. Also all children received an award regardless of whether they placed or not. As usual the best Judges in the Southeast were on hand to ensure Safety and Fairness to all the competitors. Coordinators for the day were JEROME “MAGIC” JOHNSON and WILLIAM REED. As far as competitors go the talent was pretty good. Several Under Belts really caught my eye to include CAMERON COLLINS of TEAM GOD SQUAD and MARK “THE CEREBRAL ASSASIN” LAUGHLIN of TEAM LIFE FORCE KARATE. COLLINS is a student of GRAND MASTER DEWEY EARWOOD of Columbia, SC. LAUGHLIN is a student of BILLEE PURVIS also of Columbia, SC. Both competitors featured strong, clean technique, better than a few Black Belts on the circuit. CHELSA GOWER of TEAM LIFE FORCE KARATE continued her winning ways by easily winning the Jr. Black Belt Kata Grand Championship. MOHSEN MAHOUD a new competitor to the circuit won the Adult Black Belt Kata Grand Championship.

JUWAN WHITE went home with the 18-34 Men’s Sparring Grand Championship and veteran JERRY SELLERS went through a tough group of executive fighters to win the 35+ Men’s Sparring Grand Championship. Congratulations to MARK LAUGHLIN, STEPHANIE COOMBS, NICK BLACKBURN and CAMERON COLLINS for each winning an Under Belt Grand Championship. Overall I rate this tournament as one of the top 2-3 tournaments in the Southeast and I encourage our readers to consider attending the 4th annual BLACK WARRIOR MARTIAL ARTS in June of 2010. I would like to thank GRAND MASTER DUKES and his lovely wife TINA for inviting me to cover such a wonderful event. …….

39th RUMBLE Connelly Springs, NC When I am approached to cover someone’s tournament I am usually kind of picky. So many tournaments on many circuits I have covered over the years are not efficient or organized, in other words, they are a nightmare to cover. But when MASTER

GARY DILLINGHAM asked me to cover “THE RUMBLE” I had no problem accepting the invitation. MASTER DILLINGHAM is one of the nicest and most knowledgeable Martial Artists I have ever worked with. He has a sterling reputation for being a top notch Judge, Arbitrator and Promoter. “THE RUMBLE” now in its 39th year of operation is among the oldest and prestigious Martial Art events in the country and with good reason; you don’t last 39 years by running a bad tournament. The tournament was held in a small community called Connelly Springs which is about 10 miles west of Hickory, NC. THE 39th RUMBLE was held at the EAST BURKE HIGH SCHOOL gymnasium, a more than adequate venue for a tournament. THE 39th RUMBLE received “AAA” ratings from both THE MATT and THE DOJO Sport Karate organizations. The awards

The Complete Directory of Martial Arts Information

Holiday Inn at Mac Arthur Airport Ronkonkoma, Long Island NY 11779 Open to all styles / Kata (forms), Sparring, Weapons & Self Defense New Demonstration Event for Beginners A event for everyone from beginner to Black Belt . Application & Information Call 866 95-KARATE Visit our website – www.LongislandKarate.com & www.LongIslandKarateChampionships.com

Tournament Director Shihan Jonas Nunez Special Pre-Tournament Room Rates Available Sat Nov 7th Call The Holiday Inn 631 585-9500 For Special Karate Room Rates

Live from The Deer Park Sportatorium 435-13 Brook Ave. – Deer Park NY 11729

18 Exciting Matches – 4 Championship Bouts Tickets & Information Call 631 813-2092 Visit us at www.longislandKickboxing.com Warriors Wanted Join Campbells Fight Team Contact World Champion Bobby Campbell 631 813-2092

Master of Ceremony Sifu Alan Goldberg

By:

Shakim shabazz th

27 Annual U.S Capital Classics Master Dennis Brown th hosted his 27 Annual U.S Capital Classics. The world’s best competitors migrated to the Crystal City in Arlington Va., to display there skill’s withdeifying aero flips, and kicks. One of the most prestigious tournaments in the country the best of the best from synchronized kata teams doing 720 spin kick flips, fighters came as far as Europe to engage in battle. Friday night Superfights sponsor by M.A.S.M.A.L. was thunderous Team Next Level fought there way thru the finals to face off against Full Circle on Saturday. Upcoming Naska starr Deandre Walker defeats Jason Bourelly, Ibby Abdalla crushed his ar ch rival Kevin Thompson (4-0). The energy level from the spectator’s cheering on there favorite team melted Crystal City. To witness the most competitive tournament check Blitzkick.com for footage.

Grand Championship winners Demonstration Team – Team 100% Adult Weapons – Kalman Csoka Women’s Forms – Caitlin Dechelle Men’s Team fighting (Full Circle - Ryan McGriff, Ross Levine, Jason Bourelly) Women’s Fighting – Marielle Elliott Men’s Forms – Marcel Jones Men’s Fighting – Ross Levine

from Nepal, whom traveled a 26-hour flight to attend this prestigious event that has been duly noticed overseas This event showcased 140 divisions in the following categories: weapon kata, empty-hand kata, self-defense, point-sparring and continuous sparring. A special appearance was made by Master Mendez’s instructor, martial arts pioneer & living legend, Grandmaster JOE LEWIS who paraded the tournament facility greeting fans, spectators and participants. Joe LEWIS, as well as Master Steve CHAMBLISS were amongst the most notable award recipients. They both received the “Life Time Achievement’ awards for their lifetime dedication, not only as master instructors, but as influential role models and ambassadors to the martial arts. . In the past ten years, Master MENDEZ has donated over $20,000 to organizations such as, the YWCA, CYO, Home Front, PAL, Special Olympics, Sunshine Foundation, St. Jude’s Cancer Research Hospital & many more to include the HOWARD JACKSON foundation. Mr. JACKSON was a martial arts pioneer, legend, and the most devastating offensive fighter of all times. He was Chuck Norris’ personal trainer and bodyguard, and a close personal friend to Master Ivan MENDEZ. In early March of 2006, Mr. Jackson lost his battle with Leukemia. Mr. Jackson’s memory will be carried on at this event. He will never be forgotten. th

Plans are in the works for the “15 Annual” event scheduled for Saturday, March 20, 2010. Alternate date is th March 27 , 2010. For more information, contact Karatetour@msn.com or go to www.karatetournaments.com

Master Jose Luis Torres II appointment

MERCER COUNTY NATIONAL KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS Lawrenceville, NJ th

The 2009 14 annual Mercer County National Karate Championship in memory of the late HOWARD JACKSON was organized & hosted by tournament director Master IVAN MENDEZ of the Red Dragon Karate Studio in Trenton NJ. This event drew in record numbers. A myriad of 550 competitors displayed their sportsmanlike conduct & electrifying talents, with over 700 thrilling spectators who cheered on their performances. Competitors traveled from Conn., N.Y., N.J., P.A., Ohio, Delaware, Maryland, Florida, Canada, as well as competitors

Master Jose Luis Torres II has been appointed as the new Tae Kwon Do Director for the Arnold Classic Sports Festival being held on March 4-7, 2010 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, Ohio. Olympic-Style sparring and Poomse competition will be held on Saturday March 6 and Open Tae Kwon Do/ Karate will be held on Sunday March 7. Master Torres is excited to be appointed as the new TKD Director and hopes to continue the events excellence while promoting the event to a new horizon. Master Torres is the owner of Team Torres Ma rtial Arts Training Centers locate in Edgewater Park NJ and Burlington Twp NJ. He is the Executive Director and Founder of NAFMA- The North American Federation of Martial Arts. He has promoted the NJ Martial Arts Championship since 2002 and the NAFMA National Champonships since 2004

THE CLASH IN REYNOLDSBURG By C.M. Griffin

Okay, in my opinion the Ohio Martial Arts Magazine circuit is swiftly becoming the premier martial arts circuit around. It wouldn’t surprise me at all if their the top circuit much like the NCAA Basketball Tournament became the number 1 collegiate basketball tournament in the nation. This isn’t just hype, let me explain: on Saturday th August 16 we went to Reynoldsburg High School for CLASH IN REYNOLDSBURG hosted by Sensei Tiffany Lugo. Now I will admit, in the beginning there was some confusion because the High School was holding a football scrimmage with a rival school – the competitors had some difficulty locating which building housed the tournament. But once we found it, there weren’t any more problems. Sensei Lugo had 2 exhibition divisions added to the tournament; padded weapons and grappling (Gi and “no Gi). The grappling was run by Mr. Matt Evans who did a very good job of keeping things moving. His grapplers put on a wonderful exhibition matches with children, adults, teenagers, women and also a “seniors” match. Padded weapons also had popular exhibition matches. This division allowed competitors to fight with specially padded swords and Bo staffs. The Ohio Martial Arts Magazine team made sure everything went smoothly as possible. As usual, Master Jacques Tarr had the master plan for each ring and division. Soke Campbell made sure each division ran smoothly and all competitors had fun, especially the younger ones. This was Sensei Tiffany Lugo’s CLASH IN REYNOLDSBURG; Well what can you aspect from a (Ohio Martial Arts Magazine Tournament)

By: Scott Bray

New England Open New England Open 2009 was held at the Royal Plaza Hotel and trade center in Marlborough, Massachusetts on the weekend of May 29-30, 2009. Over 680 competitors from as far away as Europe showed up knowing the top competition in the sports martial arts world from forms competitors to point fighters Would be there. Joe Greenhalgh, family and volunteers worked very hard at organizing this tournament and as always had some new surprises. This was the third year Joe Greenhalgh hosted the tournament, since taking over the tournament he has brought in woman’s super fights, super forms competition. This year it was woman’s doubles team, No Gi Grappling, Electronic score boards for fighting and more than enough sound systems for musical forms. This promoter is definitely investing money and time back in to the sport. As expected of a tournament of this caliber teams such as Team Full Circle, Team 100 Percent,Team Paul Mitchel, Amerikick, Straight-Up, MASMAL and many regional teams like Next Level, Tentions karate team ,Team GKS and many more school teams, to many to mention were present. With so much talent, the judges had their work set out for them; overall the judging was very fair and honest. The electronic score boards were a nice addition allowing the spectators to know the score and time left at all times. The super fights were sponsored by MASMAL, unfortunately only the woman’s super fight was held on stage at the night time show due to several competitors having to bow out due to earlier injuries. Regina Thompson vs. Lora Minicucci super fight was the one supper fight at the night time show. After a little confusion among the judges Regina Thompson won the super fight title 8-4. The night time show was held in the Royal Plaza Trade Center. It was full of the top competitors such as Jennifer Espina, Scott Wu,Daniel Sterling, Dayna Huor, Ross Levine and Danny Etkins performing forms, weapons and creative forms. The national anthem was sung by the American Idol finalist Ayla Brown with the Marine Color Guard standing by. Ayla Brown returned to sing several songs thru out the evening. Super forms is a fun competition where the competitors spin a wheel and whichever martial arts style of various forms or weapons, that the wheel landed it falls on they have to perform. Tyler Weaver and Samantha Smith were the two finalists in Super forms. Tyler took the win with the luck of the spin of the wheel, it landed on extreme weapons which Tyler competes in, and both competitors did a great job. team 100 % demo team performed an

excellent routine with extreme forms and weapons, it was there night, and every move was in synch. I could go on for hours about this tournament but there is not enough room on this magazine for this. You just will have to be there next year to see for yourself. The date of the tournament has been changed to June 4 th & 5th, 2010. It will be held at the same location. Joe Greenhalgh is already working on several new surprise for 2010. There is a rumor that the night time show is going to be held in the Trade center tent, for years Joe Greenhalgh has said he wanted to jump the stage on his motorcycle, I wonder if this is the year? Be there to see. Congratulations to the following Overall winners: Men's Overall Sparring Grand Championship - Raymond Daniels Women's Overall Sparring Grand Championship - Regena Thompson - Men's Team Fights - Team Full Circle (Jason Grenier, Julio Lugo, and Ryan McGriff)Women's Pairs - Team Str8 Up (Chelsey Nash and Yomaira Rodriguez) -Men's Superfights HW - Raymond Daniels- Men's Superfights LW - Jason Bourelly Women's Superfights - Regena Thompson

Congratulations to all the Divisional Winners: SLW (18-29) - Robbie Lavioe* LW (18-29) - Ryan Mcgriff LMW (18- 29) - Jason Bourelly* MW (18-29) - Niko Negron LHW (18-29) - Greg Betlach HW (18-29) Raymond Daniels* 30 & Over - Tom Roberts Results courtesy of Blitzkick.Com

The 7th Annual Awesome Internationals th

The 7 Annual Awesome Internationals, was held on June 26, 2009 at the Duburns Arena in beautiful downtown Baltimore, near the scenic inner harbour. This is a MASMAL rated event. The arena had bleachers surrounding the arena and the staff enforced the rules of coaches only on the floor, this was a nice improvement. The tournament started promptly at 9am and due to the volume of competitors the tournament ran all day in to the early evening. The action never stopped, so I do not think people realized how late it was, Overall it was a fun, very competitive tournament, with talent as far away as Connecticut and Florida. If this tournament keeps growing at this rate,Mr.Dawson better start looking for a larger facility, because if you are serious about fighting this tournament should definitely be on your list for 2010. Teams such as Team GKS, Next Level, Full Circle and Team MASMAL were present in full force It was obvious to the residents of Baltimore, something big was going on. Many excellent competitors showed up to battle it out. Mike Simmions, Kodaq Wray, Jessie Wray, Jerrel Dawson, Mallory Woods, Sara Homewood, Troy Binns were among the top competition to beat. Congratulations to Team GKS for winning 17 first place with Sara Homewood winning the overall sparring grand championship. Troy Binns took the overall forms and weapons grands performing a weapons kata with nunchucks in one hand and a kama in the other hand. It was a long day, but the competitors I spoke to say the competition was of a high level and it was definitely worth it.

The Connecticut Challenge Hosted by Mike Conroy was held in Waterbury, Ct. on July 26, 2009 at the CoCo Key Water Resort and Hotel.The tournament was rated by PSKL and MASMAL. The tournament had a fair turn out for a newer tournament, many New England and New York competitors turned out to support the tournament and have a chance to compete against some very talented local talent. It was a well organized tournament; the tournament was over in the early afternoon allowing time for the kids to enjoy the water park. Mike Conroy has just recently joined forces with the KRANE circuit, to create a merger of the two sport karate circuits starting in 2010. The uniting will create a one day world championship and several MMA/kickboxing tournaments. So keep your eye on the KRANE website in 2010 for upcoming tournaments.

The Amistad Open Martial Arts Tournament Held in Lawrence, Mass. on Sept.6, 2009. The tournament was a MASMAL rated event. The tournament had over 150 competitors competing in forms, weapons, creative, point sparing and continues fighting. The tournament was supported by Team GKS, Team Straight Up, Team MASMAL, Team Pitbulls and many talented competitors from around the New England area. The judges were all MASMAL certified and did a great job; it was not an easy job with such excellent competition.

Super Seminar Reggie Perry, Raymond Daniels, Jadi Tention, and Jason Bourelly held a fighting seminar on July 25,2009 at Perry's Tae Kwon Do Academy at 308 Moody St, Waltham, MA. Eighty martial artists showed up from all over the east coast for over four hours of none stop training in what felt to be 100 degree temperatures. It was old school training in footwork, drills.blitzing and kicking. It was a great opportunity to learn from these champion fighters. The students stated as they left that it was an excellent hands on experience and they can’t wait for the next seminar. Reggie Perry can be contacted at 781- 891-4800 if you are interested in future seminars.

The Central New England Karate Championship The CNEKC was held on August 16, 2009 at the DCU Center in Worcester, Mass. The tournament was promoted by Alan D’Allessandro and rated by KRANE a 4A tournament and a NASKA a 2A tournament. Over 250 competitors and over 500 spectators filled the beautiful DCU Center. The tournament hotel was the Hilton Garden Inn located right next to the DCU Center; this was the hotel of choice. The tournament was advertised on the local radio stations which gave away spectator passes to callers and covered by the local press. Alan D’Allessandro is hard at work promoting the sport of martial arts to the younger generation of Worcester, This has been noticed by the city council, Mayor Lukes even was in attendance. The tournament started with self defenses divisions and quickly moved on to weapons, forms and point sparring ending with continuous fighting. There were over 200 divisions with six grand championships. As with most KRANE events the tournament was well organized and run on a timely fashion. Congratulations’ to all the competitors, there was some very excellent talent at this tournament and all the competitors did a great job.

The Spinal Withdrawal Reflex and Athletic Performance By: David S.Klein MD While the principal focus of athletic training has been placed, traditionally, on improvement in strength and enhanced flexibility, measurable and significant degradation in actual performance results from involuntary, protective mechanisms „hard-wired‟ into our nervous system. The Spinal Withdrawal Reflex (SWR) is one such protective mechanism that robs the athlete of what could be the winning difference or competitive edge. Sometimes known as the nociceptive spinal reflex, the SWR protects the body from self inflicted damage. Stretch, pressure, or pain receptors are triggered, and a signal follows the sensory nervous system to the spinal cord. Processed in the Dorsal Horn, a reflex signal is then sent back to the same limb or region of the body accomplishing a „shut down‟ of the offending muscle or muscle groups. One example might be a tear in the rotator cuff of the shoulder. As the athlete reaches with the arm, a pain signal from the damaged shoulder ligament travels to the spinal cord causing a reflex „withdrawal‟ of the shoulder muscles, causing „weakness‟ of the arm and shoulder. Because of the SWR, and due to the protective nature of the reflex, the shoulder muscles are never allowed by this reflex to operate at full strength and capacity. The net effect is decreased range of motion and a measurable decrease in strength. In a competitive athlete, this decrease is estimated to result in a decrease of 1-4% of optimum performance. To an amateur athlete, the degradation can be 20% or more. Important to the athlete is that the decrease in range of motion, strength and flexibility can be reduced or eliminated by decreasing the pain modulator in the damaged tissue. That is, modulating the pain receptor can measurably and significantly improve performance and recovery, but this pain modulation must be accomplished without increasing the likelihood of re-injury. Medicines that „numb‟ the pain receptor increase the likelihood of re-injury by reducing the pain signals that result from tissue damage. Local anesthetics and counter-stimulants fall into this category. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) modulate the pain receptors without „numbing‟ the tissues. While it is critical for full recovery to insure that the injury has proper time to heal, it is vitally important that the rehabilitation process allows for full extension andperformance of the injured area. Too many times the physical therapy recovery is inhibited by the discomfort of the person going through physical exercise, yet the

individual in recovery must be “pushed” to safe limits in order to guarantee full return of function, at optimal effectiveness. Paradoxically, the more strenuous the safe management of the rehabilitative process, the quicker will be the expected return to normal activity. This time factor is critical, regardless of whether you run a dojo or are competing. The pain receptor can, however, be safely modulated with resulting improvement in strength and flexibility using anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant topical medications such as a high-concentration MSM containing salve. In summary, the performance-robbing qualities of the spinal withdrawal reflex can be reduced, with high concentration transdermal MSM, thereby improving flexibility, range of motion and muscular strength. Improvement by as little as 2-5% in strength, reach and range of motion could make the difference between winning and losing. It has been said that at the professional level in most sports the difference between winning and losing is usually around a 1% difference in performance. Low concentration MSM containing salves, such as Tiger Balm® are somewhat beneficial, but newer products that contain very high concentrations of MSM, such as Kink Ease® provide much more rapid and dramatic results. (If you have any questions about this article, the use and characteristics of MSM or any other issues please contact Dr. Klein. He can be reached at: kinkease@gmail.com or visit his web site for related articles: http://www.suffernomore.com ). Information on Kink Ease® can be obtained at: www. Bestpaincream.com .

300

Are You A LEADER, OR Are You A FOLLOWER ? If you're not sure how to answer that question, you're a follower! Stop reading here. This message isn't for you. If you know that you're a follower, don't feel badly. We need you, or we'd have no one to lead! Again though, stop reading here. This message is not for you. OK, now that we've cleared the path for the DOers, and DECISION MAKERS, let's get right to it! Our website, MMAFightCouncil.com, is the meeting place for our community! Join us along with such notable people on our board as Sifu Alan Goldberg, whose magazine you’re reading! We created the MMAFC Charter 300 Group! The offer is a reduced price offer to join the MMAFC community. It’s $99.00 USD to join for all of 2010 (starting now!) After the first 300 take advantage of this, the regular annual fee will be higher. A portion of ALL membership proceeds is donated to the Wounded Warrior Project (WoundedWarriorProject.org). 300? We like the movie 300! So we're giving you a copy for becoming one of the MMAFC Charter 300 Group members! More importantly, because we really, truly value you, and your partnership with us in our passion for MMA! As a member of the Charter 300 Group you’ll ALWAYS receive every new development, offer, special, promotion, product offering, etc. FIRST! So you’ll receive all the standard benefits of membership, and the extra ones described above from now through 2010 as a Charter 300 Group member! -You’ll enjoy access to fighters, promoters, products, and companies! –You’ll be brought INTO MMA, or better connected, if you're already IN it! -You’ll receive membership into USA Jiu-Jitsu (USAJJ.com). -You’ll receive a subscription to an MMA magazine! -You’ll enjoy MMA news and exclusive content! -You’ll get discounts from many vendors and businesses. -You’ll receive your own copy of our MMA Insiders Guide! -You’ll receive an exclusive MMAFC shirt (coming soon)! -You’ll receive free product samples, and exclusive offers from many of our sponsors! -You might be on the receiving end of an MMAFC live party in your neighborhood, where we provide a PPV and the food, and our sponsors would throw in some of their cool stuff too!-If there’s enough interest, you can take advantage of a steeply discounted MMA Cruise later in 2010, with fighter/s to be announced! -This list will continue growing, and YOU, will always benefit FIRST, as an early decision maker. -You can participate in our TUF 10 blogging. We have TUF 10 contestant Roy “Big Country” Nelson blogging for us after each episode of TUF 10! As a member, you can ask questions about the TUF 10 episodes and we’ll get answers

from Roy himself - More site specific members only benefits, and others to come!! Tell us what you’d like, and we’ll see what we can do! IF you're ready to DO! membership@mmafightcouncil.comIf you need more info, then email me at info@mmafightcouncil.com! OK, only 300...........GO!!

New York’s States First MMA Expo New York City area fans turned out in droves Sunday (August 2) to attend the first New York Mixed Martial Arts Expo held at the Uniondale Marriot in Long Island, New York. Sponsored by the Carl of Fighter Warehouse NY, the

event helped push for sanctioning of MMA in the state of New York where it is currently unregulated. Some big names in mixed martial arts and the regular Marial arts world were there sign autographs Jamie Varner, Jens Pulver, Andrei Arlovski, Sean Sherk, Tim Kennedy . Ron Van Clief, Chuck Zito, Alan Goldberg, Olando Rivera, Prof Mansuer, MMAFC Pres Aaron Richman. Assemblymen Rob Walker was seen posing for pictures

in front of an 8-foot sign that had the New York city and the Empire State Building with the words “Help legalize MMA in New York” .. The UFC has been lobbying hard to bring mixed martial arts to NY State and this expo not only helped raise awareness Bill A.2009-B, created to legalize and regulate MMA in the state of New York, recently passed 14-6 in the Assembly’s Committee on Tourism, Parks, Arts and Sports and is currently under review by the Codes Committee.

By: Master John Burdyck “Who ALWAYS tells it like it is”

Dear Sport Karate Competitors and MMA Spectators, When you first get up in the morning and you eat two live frogs, and you think this is the worst thing that can happen to you all day, then you better eat four of them if you decide to go to a sport karate tournament in Atlanta, and expect to get paid. If you are a MMA Spectator and plan to attend an event with $1000.00 seats, only to find out you can’t see through the cage to watch the fight because your “great” seats are not elevated. We must start holding these promoters responsible for their actions or they will continue to abuse their sports. MMA Events & News The MMA league “Affliction”, which was owned by the founders of “Affliction” and Donald Trump, folded in August, and now “Affliction” intends to support the UFC. One of the reasons why the league folded was because they were millionaires going against billionaires, and eventually the UFC either buys the league or they simply go under. MMA Event in the Poconos in PA WKU Warrior Challenge/ Amateur Fight In the 135 lbs. weight class, Ray Eltringham defeated Ben Moser, and Justin Rios defeated Brent Kroh. 145 lbs. Adam Dull defeated Ryan Helfin. 155lbs. Mark Cugliari defeated Danny Signor. 155lbs. James Chappell defeated Ryan Howard. 170 lbs. Justin Scott defeated Jesse Finch. Jeff Runk defeated Brett Evens. Brett Myers defeated Chris Evans. 185 lbs. Duane Bastress defeated Robert Martin. Ken Edwards defeated Justin Filer. 205lbs. Chad Strawbridge defeated Jonathan Werich. Don Cioffo defeated Richard Bogdanowicz. In the Pro Fight category, Jay Haas defeated Dog Sonier and Lou Armezanni defeated Anthony Dick. All in all the event was a success, but as I was sitting at ringside covering the event for Action Martial Arts magazine, I heard one of the Pennsylvania Boxing Commission judges say, “I really feel bad because this is only the second event I have judged, and I am doing the best I can, but I really don’t know what I’m looking at.” This is a total disgrace to the fighters who have trained so hard to represent their sport. Most boxing commissions come to our events and act like “little Hitler’s” telling us how to run our events, and giving us a hard time all day long. The least they could do is learn how to judge our sport before they become a part

of it. I would like to thank the ground control Jiu-Jitsu and MMA Club of Baltimore for assisting the Maryland Athletic Commission on establishing the rules for MMA events in Maryland. The first MMA event is scheduled in October with the League “StrikeForce” promoting the event. You can go to www.StrikeForce.com to find out more about the event. According to an exclusive report from Yahoo Sports, Kimbo Slice, the former Elite XC heavyweight contender, is slated to be one of sixteen contestants on the upcoming season of “The Ultimate Fighter” the UFC’s highly successful reality TV series. I recently attended a NAGA event and the founder and president of that league, Kipp Kollar, is doing an amazing job promoting grappling. His professionalism on how he runs an event is truly first class. I strongly encourage all martial arts schools, if they haven’t already, to include grappling in their curriculum, for this will be just another avenue for your school to succeed. Many years ago schools fought the idea of teaching Tae-Bo but then realized the economic benefit of that curriculum. Grappling can also be of great benefit in many ways to your school. Brock Lesner Disgraces Himself, the UFC, and All Martial Artists Brock Lesner’s post fight behavior, after beating Frank Mir for the heavyweight title on July 11th with a second round knockout, was a disgrace. His actions of yelling and screaming reminded you of something an animal would do, not a human being, especially not a true martial artist. As the crowd booed him he got more and more angry, but that animal rage seems to be what Americans want ala Mike Tyson. A true martial artist shows humility in victory. Lesner is fighting in a league whose title numbers are just the opposite of what MMA stands for. He should be fighting in the “AMA”- Animal Martial Arts. I recently walked into The Vitamin Shoppe in Ocala Florida, and saw a big poster of Brock Lesner endorsing vitamins. He needs to add one more vitamin to the list called the “respect” vitamin, and he should take about five of them before his next fight.

If you have news o notes about “MMA” in the future please contact me: Phone: 443-299-2047 Fax: 352-433-0675 E-mail: johnburdyck@comcast.net Or on the world wide web www.burdyck.com OUSH!

The Chinese Connection By: Sifu Abdulmuhsiy Abdurrahman

ARLINGTON, VA. Just on the outskirts of the nation's capital, one will find the beautiful and historic citly of Arlington. Located at the fabulous Crystal Gateway Marriott hotel, Mfundi Dennis Brown, his lovely wife Andrena, and a host of students and volunteers stagged another well run all Chinese martial arts tournament, running concurrently with the open "U.S. Capitol Classics" tournament for three fun filled days, had a tournament within a tournament. On the final day of competition Chinese martial are able to "do their thing" in front of well known Judges of the Chinese martial arts. About 200 competitors and 150 spectators had the opportunity to witness Chinese martial arts by some of the best in the Nation. Numerous styles and disciplines were on hand and spectators were seen moving from ring to ring in order to see pinpoint percision at its best. Being a Chinese martial artist himself for a number of years, Mfundi Dennis Brown is pushing the CMA, especially after the beautiful pagentry of last year's opening ceremony of the Olympics held in Bejing, China. For all of you Chinese martial artists out there who want to have fair and impartial judging and an excellent time, plan NOW in attending his "China Open" for 2010, you'll be glad you and your stludents did!!! Watch these pages or go to his website at www.uscapitolclassics.com for more details

GAAM SING'S KUNG FU CHAMPIONSHIPS Wash., D.C. Sifu Othal Thomas was the host of this year's 1st all kung fu tournament to be held in the Nation's Capitol. Being held in downtown at the YMCA, Chinese martial artists from numerous styles and disciplines came for a day of fun and competition, and NONE were disappointed. Competing in sparring, empty hand and weapons forms divisions, nearly 350 spectators and 250 competitors thoroughly enjoyed themselves throughout the day, as participants from 5 years to executives categories performed to the best of their abilities in an attempt to emerge with first through third place honors. Starting things off was a lion dance, as many Chinese traditions goes, in order to wardoff evil spirits, followed by

some masterful demos give by several reknowned masters and grandmasters of several Chinese martial arts. Their electrifying performances set the stage for what was about to take place for the remainder of the day to the delight of all whom had gathered. Keep posted to these pages for his next tournament slated for sometime in June 2010, so you can be apart of all the fun as well.

WONG PEOPLE III KUNG FU/TAI CHI COMPETITION WASHINGTON, D.C. Just as they have done in the past, Master Raymond Wong along with his many loyal students and volunteers hosted in outstanding fashion, their 3rd Kung Fu and Tai Chi championship with over 275 competitors in all age groups, and 300 spectators, in support of this funfilled event!!!! These numbers are not at all surprising, despite the present economical situation of today, because of Master Wong's "leading by example" as to what the traditions of what really the Chinese Martial Arts are all about-humility,sincerity, and constant training!!! This columnist has had the honor of witnessing these attributes put into action as a result of my long standing acquaintance with Master Wong and his "Wong Family" for well over the last 20 plus years. When I say put into action I mean exactly that. To witness many of his students, whom I have known since they were 5 years of age, blossom into very into very well mannered, respectful and polite, young men and women and being assets to society as opposed to being liabilities, can be easily traced back to caring and nurturing characteristics known a FAMILY. Coming from Balto., Md., Bronx N.Y., Virginia, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, Wash., D.C., and surrounding counties, everyone had a fantastic time to say the least. In closing, this columnist had the distinct honor along with "The Wong People", of presenting Master Wong with a plaque of appreciation for his consistant dedication in the propagation of all traditional Chinese Martial Arts for so many years, and leaving ALL Politics by the waste side!!! We here at "Action" send our congratulations to them all for a job well done, and pledge our continuing support to Master Wong as he strives forward on his quest!!! Watch these pages for his next competition scheduled in 2010, and I encourage you all to make your plans early to attend, you'll be GLAD you did!!!!!!

The Chinese Connection B.O.W. 's Seminar Washington, D.C. On this beautiful spring afternoon, Shifu Dennis Johnson and Shifu Seaborn gave a lively and enjoyable seminar on the finite and intricate points of applications in wushu that many either don't know exist, when looking at the forms be performed. The Boxers Of Wushu martial arts academy had as a facility, a very large sports complex, equipped with many kinds of kicking and punching bags and equipment and lots of room for all whom had gathered there. Shifu Seaborn got things underway with warm up exercises, lasting for about a 1/2 hour, in order to help stimulate the mind and body as one unit. When Shifu Dennis Johnson took the floor the attendees continuously work on the hand techniques of jab, hook, and cross along with two kicking techniques, front kick and side kick. Throughout the day, these techniques were used in easy to understand and pratical formats in which the attendees found stimulating, realistic and fun, at the same time!!! Shifu Seaborn after seeing how easily many performed said, "Punching and Kicking are not hard if you have great technique". 2009 U.S. INTERNATIONAL KUO SHU CHAMPIONSHIP Hunt Valley, Md. This year's Kuo Shu championship started just as the others of the last 20 years-in Grand Fashion!! This 3 day event started of Friday morning with seminars scheduled throughout the day with some of the world's most reknowned Masters and Grandmasters of the Chinese Martial Arts in the world. The following day continued with the seminars, but was the official day for all of the festives to begin such as the lion dance, the entrance and seating of the referees and judges, and the grand entrance of all of the dignitaries and v.i.p.'s lead by the event's host, Grandmaster Chien-Liang Huang with representatives from numerous political offfices. The White House, U.S. Senate, Governor's Office, County Executive's Office, U.S. Congressman's Office, State Senator's Office, etc, etc., are only but a few to name that year after lend support to this ongoing historic event!! After a few words from the representatives, Grandmaster Huang as always to show he heartfelt appreciation presented each

of them a beautiful plaque to be given of the dignitary whom was unfortunately not able to be in attendance. Immediately following that process, Grandmaster Huang was asked to return back to the podium because this columnist had the honor on behalf of all of the referees, judges, officials, volunteers, and all whom had gathered, of presenting him a well deserved plaque of appreciation for all of his very, very, hard work behind the scenes that many are not able to witness-but only the finished product. All whom had gathered gave Grandmaster Huang a standing ovation because everyone realized that for all of this man's GIVING, it time for him to RECEIVE!!!! Being a past "ACTION" Hall Of Honor inductee, Grandmaster Huang graciously accepted the award and with humility quietly returned to his seat. After a few more words from M.C. John Green, a longtime Grm. Huang student, the actual competitions got under way. The entire Marriott Hotel, which was the host venue, and all surrounding businesses look forward to the last weekend of july, because they able to gain financially from the 700 plus competitors and the 1,200 plus spectators who gather there each and every year!!! We here at ACTION pledge our continuing support to Grm. Huang and the U.S. Kuo Shu Federation in their ongoing efforts in propagating and advocating the Kuo Shu (Kung FU) martial arts to humanity for a better world!!!!! WONG PEOPLE'S III KUNG FU/TAI CHI COMPETITION WASHINGTON, D.C. Just as they have done in the past, Master Raymond Wong along with his many loyal students and volunteers hosted in grand fashion, their 3rd Kung Fu and Tai Chi with over 375 competitors in all age groups, and 400 spectators in support of this funfilled event!!! These numbers are not at all surprising, despite the present economical situation of today, because of Master Wong's "leading by example" as to what the traditions of what really the Chinese Martial Arts are all about-humility, sincerity, and constant training!!! This columnist has had the honor of witnessing these attributes put into action as a result of my acquaintance with he and his "Wong Family" for well over the last 20 plus years. When I say put into action I mean exactly that. To see many of his student whom I have known since they were 5 years of age, blossom into very well mannered, respectful and polite, young men and women and being assets to society and not a liability, can easily be traced back to caring and nurturing, known as FAMILY. "The Wong People", of presenting Master Wong with a plaque of appreciation for his consistant dedication for the propagation of all traditional Chinese Martial Arts for so many years, and leaving all politics aside!!!! We here at "Action" send our congratulations on a continuing job well done, and pledge our continuing support as he strives forward on his quest!!!!! Watch these pages for his next competition in 2010, and I encourage you all to attend, you'll be GLAD you did!!!!!!!

VERERABLE WARRIOR THE MALE / MAN QUESTIONAIRE

By Dr. Michael Willett

Does any type of tattoos, scars or wounds make you a man?

I have been encouraged by the Board of Education to write a book on “Manhood”. I have given many seminars on the topic and have been very well received. I am led to believe that this book could become a curriculum for the Board of Education, not only in New York but nationwide. As I was doing my due diligence for this project, I thought about you the reader. I thought it would be a novel approach to share my thoughts and insights with you. The salient question is, what is a male and how does he become a man? I think the male part is easy; the man part is much more complex. There are five questions I need to ask you all.

Does a stint in a correctional facility make you a man?

10.

Does a religious ceremony (bar mitzvah, rites of passage, animal slaying or capture) make you a man?

11.

If you were incarcerated for an extended period of time, would you betray your own value system and give into your own carnal physical proclivities and desires?

12. On a date with your female friend, she became so

What is a man?

inebriated to the point of passing out, would

At what point did you know you had crossed over

You; (A) Take her to your house for a night cap (B)

from boyhood to manhood?

Go to her house for a night cap, or (C) Put her in a

To date, what has been your greatest failure as a

cab alone and send her home.

man? 4.

To date, what has been your greatest success as a man to date?

Before you leave this level of existence, what do you want to accomplish as a man?

These are the question I am asking you, the reader. If you took the time to soul search for the true answers, I would be so thankful for your response, that I would include the best responses in my upcoming book, “Male by Birth, Man by Choice”. While you are pondering the questions, I want to make it abundantly clear, I will not nor would I be as presumptuous as tell you the reader what to think. I want to hear from you for a change. Your views are important to me. I learn from you. There is a Man quiz, I would like you take;

The Man Quiz 1.

Does having hair growing on your face, make you a man?

Does a deep voice, make you a man?

Does being above average height, make you a man?

Does having bulging muscles, make you a man?

Does wearing your pants below your gluteus maximus, make you a man?

Does a swinging member, make you a man?

Does making a baby, make you a man?

These questions are not an indictment on your manhood; its questions that we need to ponder and respond to. Who shall it be to teach the young males in our lives but us? I believe if you answered yes to any of these questions, then just maybe you need to rethink your manhood. It’s not too late to pull up your britches, gird up your loins and become the responsible MAN that our women are looking for. There is nothing on earth more attractive than a strong, assertive, powerful, responsible, Man. In my upcoming book, I have looked across the spectrum for a full cross-section of men. As subjects, I have a Minister, a Muslim, a Rabbi, a Professional Bowler, an Educator, a Street Gang Member, a Prison Chaplin, a Military Sergeant, a Magazine Publisher, a Professional Entertainer, a Movie Producer, a Casino Organizer, a Grammy Winner, a Martial Artist and maybe you the reader. In sampling all these men, I will attempt to show the common thread that permeates the very fiber of their beings. I will show the true essence and beauty of true manhood. I will tell a story of despair, heartache and disappointment but in the end, we win. I’ll sit and wait for your response. I need your response to make this project as successful as it can be. Now it’s your turn.

Contact me "Dr. Michael Willett"

mwcma4@aol.com

Well its fall again and many things have changed in both the Martial Arts world and our country. This January I had the pleasure of attending Action Martial Arts Expo. Once again Allen Goldberg held a large and successful event. From Movie Stars to some of the top names in Martial Arts, this event showed why it was called the academy awards of the Martial Arts. From the many exhibiters at the Expo to the wonderful instructors that taught seminars all in attendance had a wonderful time. The over 1000 attendees at the Gala Dinner feasted on good food and fun was had all evening. I look forward to next year’s expo seminar and hall. In April, Washington DC was the destination for me, Dr. Hawkins and our student Mike. Master Richardson tournament was a great success. Over 300+ competitors ran through this well put together tournament. Dr. Parish was there along with many others. The crowd loved the demo Dr. Hawkins, Mike and I put on. After a cutting demonstration the grand finally was me lying on a bed of nails holding a bed of nails that Mike laid on. Dr. Hawkins then proceeded to break concrete blocks on top of us. A good time was seemed to be had by all. In August it was up to Canada. Global Martial Arts held its third annual Hall of Fame and tournament. It was a wonderful tournament and the Hall of Fame dinner which was a buffet was great. A big Thank You to my dear friend Professor Cox one of

the top competitors and judges in the traditional Karate by the way Professor Cox is holding a tournament in Ohio November 6th. It should be a good one! I look forward to attending with many of my friends and students.I would like to tell all my friends in the arts that a lot of my time has been taken up recently since last December when I was sworn in to the Ohio Military reserves. I believe that honor, loyalty and courage are not just words and slogans to be said on a Martial Arts mat but things to live ones life by! My father that past in October and the many have thought me these words have meaning and carry weight. Many of the SRD students are now surviving.

Shortly my son will be coming home from the Middle East. John Mahuvic finished his training at Fort Leonardwood. Bret Atimic and Kevin Jackowitz are both serving in the reserves as well. A big congratulation to both for receiving promotions. Pat Forgass and his daughter Maryanne are also both serving in the true tradition of the samurai. For those of you that are unaware the word samurai means one who serves. The SRD has this at its core. I could not be more proud of my whole family in the arts. I have had the privilege and pleasure of meeting many other Martial Artist such as; Staff Sergeants Matter and Johnson, and too many others to mention. Although I would like to say one of my old friends from Mayfield Academy days Sergeant Warren Cook and I have been reunited. Since my fathers passing many things have changed in this Martial Arts teacher’s life. The last nine months of hard training and learning have shown me yet again why the fundamentals of all Martial Arts teachings are necessary in ones life. Our country has changed in a way that our generation has not seen before. So as a great man once said “Freedom was never free.” We will try to get to as many Martial Arts events as possible for the rest of this year. To all my friends around the world; I will try to make as many events as I can but my first obligation is the Military Reserves. Till next time. Where in the world is Doc today?? My love and friendship to all, Doc Braff

“Mom‟s Who Kick” By Susan Rhonda Friedman Seiko Hanshi Rick Diaz will be donating a portion of the 2009 Karate Tournament of Champions (KTOC) to the “Moms Who Kick” for Breast Cancer and the American Cancer Society. The 'Moms Who Kick' project is a tribute to all women who have battled with breast cancer. All the moms involved in this project are over 40 years of age, in excellent physical condition, and train hard in the martial arts, kickboxing, and overall fitness! As this disease affects all of us, the „Moms Who Kick‟ hopes to make a difference in the fight to find a cure. Their vision is to raise support and funds to help eradicate breast cancer KTOC will help support their cause. Joanne Hutchins, founder of “Moms Who Kick” is an avid Martial Arts enthusiast, who holds a Black Belt in Karate. She is currently training in Mixed Martial Arts and the art of Jeet Kune Do. Knowing first hand that hard work and dedication does pay off, Joanne is committed to helping others achieve their optimum physical condition and fitness goals. A firm believer that knowledge is power, she is passionate about her cause and teaching self-defense and safety awareness. Joanne has delivered numerous powerful and motivational Safety Seminars. Kudos to Joanne and Hanshi Diaz for their dedication to the "Moms Who Kick" and their strong commitment to the martial arts. To receive your calendar, kindly send a suggested donation of $25 to: The American Cancer Society c/o Carole Vande Velde 75 Davids Drive Hauppauge, NY 11788 Attn: "Moms Who Kick

WHFSC TRIUMPHS OVER BAD ECONOMY AND SWINE FLU SCARE Despite the economy and Swine Flu scare that affected Texas in Mid-May of this year, the “World Head of Family Sokeship Council”, America‟s first worldwide grandmasters organization as featured in the books “An Illustrated History of Martial Arts in America” by Emil Farkas and “The World Head of Family Sokeship Council” by Don Warrener, held its Annual world martial arts gathering there. The Council challenged world conditions by summoning the attendance of martial arts notables from around the world to th nd its 16 Annual gathering in Texas. The event held May 22 – rd 23 at the Regency Hyatt Hotel bordering the famed Riverwalk in San Antonio was sponsored by IBC Bank, and hosted by Sensei Phillip and Glenda Spears of Texas. The two day event that received local TV media attention featured award presentations and seminars by some of the world's top martial artists, including Grandmaster Graciela Casillas of California, Professor Gary Dill of Oklahoma, Grandmaster Alexander Retyunskikh and

Grandmaster German Popov's Master students from Russia, Grandmaster Mark Shuey of Nevada, Grandmaster Bram Frank of Florida, Grandmaster Gary Wasniewski of England and other world renowned figures. A film preview of Grandmaster Wasniewski's latest picture, "Thunderkick II - The Kill Factor" was also showcased along with the introduction of Jason Sterling, Star of the upcoming film "Black Salt". WHFSC Founder, Grandmaster Frank E. Sanchez was also presented with an award of commendation from Guardian Angels Representative, Rafael Arredondo on behalf of Curtis Sliwa for his and the WHFSC's contributions to martial arts and the local communities. Entertainment for the dinner that culminated the two day affair was provided by professional comedianhypnotist, Rodney Rash, whose performance was filmed "live" for a future upcoming comedy TV Special. For more information contact: Frank E. SanchezSan_Jitsu@yahoo.com GMFrankSanchez@comcast.net

The Future Jackson Rudolph is an eleven year old second degree black belt from Paducah, KY. Jackson has been training in the martial arts since he was six years old when his mom won an introductory course at their local martial arts school, Hwang‘ s Martial Arts. One of his favorite mental notes is, “ A journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step” and his love of martial arts has definitely taken him and his family on a journey from the moment he stepped onto a mat! Jackson is a proud member of the Premier Martial Arts National Karate Team and competes on the NASKA World Black Belt Tour under the direction of his coach/instructor Lauren Kearney. Lauren started teaching Jackson at the U.S. Open in 2007 and immediately her input proved why she is one of the great names in sport karate. He walked away from that tournament with his best finishes yet and has been on a steady climb ever since with appearances on stage at Diamond Nationals, Ocean State Grand Nationals, and the Quebec Open. Just this last year, in 2008, Jackson tried out for the World Karate Assoc Team USA and secured a spot on the team in five events. This would be his first time competing on an international level and at the World Championships in Orlando FL this past November, Jackson became a two time World Champion in weapons with two gold medal wins in weapons with and without music. He also received a silver medal in musical forms and the bronze medal in traditional Japanese form. This fall he will travel with Team USA to Spain to defend his world titles. While Jackson loves competing, he is also very serious about his daily martial arts training. In addition to the daily training he does for tournament preparation, he goes to regular martial arts classes six days a week. He loves helping with classes and participating in black belt classes. This past September he was awarded with his second th degree black belt by Grandmaster Jung Oh Hwang, a 19 degree combined black belt and 1984 Olympic Silver Medalist in judo. He is currently working toward his third degree black belt and is preparing for a stripe test to get him one step closer to that goal. Jackson also realizes the importance of a strong education. He is a straight A student and has been formally identified by the state of Kentucky has a gifted student in several subjects. He is on the academic team, future problem solvers team, morning news team, physical education council, and a Duke University Academic Talent Search articipant. So when you see this spiky haired, serious looking competitor quietly standing on the sidelines waiting for his turn to compete, you may wonder what lurks inside his somewhat shy exterior. If you ask him he will tell you that he is living his dream, competing along with people that he idolizes and respects, traveling all over the country, and

making life long friends in the meantime. What more could an 11 year old ask for?

The Mixed Martial Arts Brothers Nathan Gay, age 11

Ryan Gay, age 9

Being the sons of Master Terry Gay, these brothers have been doing martial arts since they could walk. Studying karate has always been a part of their lives, so it wasn’ t shocking that the ease into mixed martial arts seemed so natural. The boys enjoy the combination of wrestling/grappling with the stand up fighting. Nathan has been in karate classes since age three and has attained black belt rank; he also performs with the Bo staff, sword and nunchuku. Ryans path in the martial arts has been dedicated to training with his father completing fighters training sessions vs. advancing in the belt ranks system in karate. These different training styles make MMA a great place for these competitive brothers to come together and explore the reality of what works in a fighting system. In 2006 an Octagon training cage was added to the karate school, and the boys were the first to spar in the cage. They are huge UFC fans, and just standing in the cage would increase their adrenaline. They both have their favorite techniques and cheer on there favorite fighters.

Indian Ranch Hosts Fight Night On Saturday night May 30th, a brand new event was brought to the grounds ofIndian Ranch by promoter Peter Rogers. Rogers brought in amateur boxers, wrestlers, and mixed martial artists from all over New England for a “Showdown at the Ranch”! Rogers also promotes and

produces United States Kickboxing Association (USKBA) events for the Mohegan Sun Casino in Connecticut. The night began earlier as fight fans who chose to partake in an Italian buffet style meal served by Indian Ranch. After

dinner, guests were treated to some great fights outside the banquet hall, under the pavilion lakeside. There were martial arts demonstrations preceding the seven bouts on the night’s fight card. The action was palpable as the fighters did battle under the warm evening skies. Several bouts were exhibition fights, but combatants put their hearts, souls, and pride into every second they were in the ring! It was a great show. And make no mistake, this combat is for real…one mixed martial artist was defeated by a rear naked choke hold that rendered him momentarily unconscious! Hopefully, the folks at Indian Ranch and Promoter Rogers have struck a nerve in the community and will continue to grow and expand “Cage fighting” here in Webster. There will be another showdown at the Ranch on June 27, so don’t miss it!

The Okinawa Gathering By Hanshi Manuel T. Neves, Jr Recently, I was able to take a trip to Okinawa to study and train with KarateDo and KobuDo practitioners. Although I

admire ALL martial arts and deeply respect the initiative it takes to achieve any worthwhile skill, I'm drawn to the martial arts of Okinawa. While in Okinawa, during August 14-16 the 2009 Okinawa Traditional KarateDo World Tournament was being held. Anyone who has ever participated in an Okinawan World oriented tournament can tell you the level of competition is extreme. The best practitioners from all parts of the globe get together to compete. At this particular venue, there were over 850 contestants with approximately 6,000 karateka and followers gathered together at the Okinawa Prefectural Hall of Martial Arts, Naha City. The opening ceremonies actually started on August 13 with the dedication performances of the Living Cultural Properties at the Shuri Castle, which was the center of Okinawan martial arts in the past. Prayers were offered for the success of the tournament and for the worldwide progress of traditional karateDo. Grandmasters Shugoro Nakazato, Syorinryu, Ryukou Tomoyose, Uechiryu, Koshin Iha, Gojyuryu and Kousei Wakugawa Gojyuryu were the 10th dans and Living Cultural Properties who gave performances. It was mentioned that the 2009 Traditional KarateDo World Tournament will be held with a concept totally different from that of other international competitions in various countries. I wondered what that could be having participated in a few of these in the past. If you haven't fully engaged your training and prepared fully you're not going to get past the first round. However, this tournament had something special to offer. They wanted and requested that all participants from throughout the world express the essence of traditional karate. Perform kata from your heart, show what's inside you. As they said, "perform kata after your

own heart". There would be "no need to gain appraisal with loud performances or exaggerated actions". What a great concept. The day after the tournament was held, this particular event held Seminars for people to further their knowlege of traditional Okinawan KarateDo and KobuDo. It's an opportunity to see old friends and make new ones from many parts of the world . You can see what they're doing and they can see what you're doing. It's an opportunity to share knowlege. Such great instructors as Morio Higaonna, Gojuryu, Masahiro Nakamoto, Okinawa Kobudo, Kotaro Iha, Ryukyu Kobudo, Isamu Arakaki, Shorinryu, Zenpo Shimabukuro, Shorin-ryu, Kiyohide Shinjo, Uechiryu and several other high ranking Sensei were able to provide the highest in skill level so practitioners could take home new knowledge and skills. The following is an abstract of an article written by Uechiryu Master Toshio Higa who was in attendance as a high ranking Master sensei: "Katas - traditional forms- are fundamental offensivedefensive techniques which have been put into formal sets of systematized physical-movement-sequences thoroughly developed codified, improved by deicated Masters through the course of many centuries. Katas are truly a microcosm of karate for they contain all of the essential principles and techniques which have the combined motions of quickness, easiness, weakness and strength. The artistic sense and human spirit of the creator are reflected in katas. Therefore, kata performance (or kata demonsration) is considered to be artistic and spiritual expressions of the creator himself. Katas are not only systematized for learning and training techniques, but also for the creation of beauty. They are works of art and spirituality. Kata makes self-training possible when and after the learner has mastered it. Because of this fact, KarateDo has been diffused and developed in the world as we see in our times." From this abstract, it's clear to me that there's a need to spend more time with the Originators/Creators of traditional kata to acquire the deeper meaning. So be inquisitive, be humble, show respect and most of all keep learning. An interesting thing about Okinawa training is, when you think you know what you’re doing and you’ve got it all figured out, someone there will give you a nudge which sparks a whole new excitement and presents another side to your knowledge. That someone could even be someone ninety years old.

SAN-JITSU CELEBRATES 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY IN GERMANY San-Jitsu, a martial art founded in Guam in 1971 by Soke Frank E. Sanchez who now resides in Jacksonville, Florida celebrated its 10 year Anniversary of being taught in Germany on September 19th and 20th with seminars given by the founder's Son, Sensei Matthew Sanchez in Rahden, Germany. Commemorative awards were given out by German representatives, Senseis Thorsten Isringhausen and Jorg Aderhold to the San-Jitsu instructors in attendance, as well as certificates of appreciation to Sensei Veronika Priess and Grandmasters Bernd Hohle and Heinz Schedereiter for their promotion of San-Jitsu. Soke Sanchez through his Son also awarded Senseis Isringhausen and Aderhold who Head the United San-Jitsu Federation of Germany their 4th dans in San-Jitsu. For more information contact: Soke Frank E. Sanchez U.S. World Headquarters GMFrankSanchez@comcast.net

By: Nancy

Robinson

Tony Jaa, Thai martial arts superstar Tony Jaa, Thai martial arts superstar, does it again. After much drama surrounding the production of the film itself, Ong Bak 2: The Beginning, is scheduled for a limited release to theater audiences on October 23, 2009. Watch the exciting preview below. Directed by Tony Jaa, who stars in the movie, the cast also includes Sorapong Chatree, Sarunyoo Wongkrachang, Santisuk Promsiri and Petchtai Wongkamlao. An already overwhelming response to this movie has hinted at a possible sequel: Ong Bak 3. Tony Jaa, born Panom Jeerum in Surin, Thailand to elephant herders, he studied martial arts films and dreamed of modeling his idols who included Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan and Jet Li. He is a master of the martial art Muay Thai, but also studied other styles including Tae kwon do and judo. He did stunt work in various martial arts films before landing the starring 2003 role in Ong Bak 1 which catapulted him to movie stardom. This is Jaa's directorial debut.

Deaflympics 2009 Latvia's Laura Gaile was defeated by Lu Szu-jou, 7-0, in the women's 4957kg taekwondo final match, bringing Taiwan's gold medal win in the 21st Summer Deaflympics to two. Opening ceremonies on September 5, 2009 were a spectacular start to this international event. Twenty sports will be featured at Deaflympics 2009: karate, taekwondo, judo, badminton, basketball, bowling, cycling, football, handball, swimming, tennis, volleyball, beach volleyball, water polo, freestyle wrestling, Greco-Roman wrestling, orienteering, shooting, table tennis, and athletics

Japan Texture iPhone Specially designed to appeal to the warrior in you, Softbank has created five Japan Texture iPhone 3GS/3G cell phone cases. Each phone case is named for a famous samurai in Japanese history. Though these samurai clearly did not have use for cell phone cases in their day, the company designers envisioned what the samurai might like and modeled these upscale laquered cases in their image. Culturally significant icons like the crescent moon, Bishamonten (the god of war), and the Chinese dragon character which were used by the five famous Samurai featured, are included in the designs. Martial arts historian Kozo Kaku written notes are included

with each purchase. For a mere $1,000, a piece of ancient martial arts history meets modern technology can be yours

Shaquille O'Neal. Martial arts training is a good way to enhance any sports routine. Just ask basketball star, Shaquille O'Neal. Shaq says he will study Kung Fu to help him with his basketball game. He has always admired the martial arts and recently traveled to China where he witnessed monks in kung fu training at the Shaolin Temple, revered as the birthplace of martial arts. Shaq is convinced that the martial arts will help his game. It is true that the martial arts can benefit athletes in the performance of their individual sports. Endurance, balance, coordination, timing, focus, flexibility and discipline are staples of traditional martial arts training. They are also essential to the success of athletes who play basketball, football, soccer, baseball, hockey, lacrosse, golf and other sports. Make the commitment to raise the level of your game by making a commitment to martial arts

Bruce Lee Bruce Lee's childhood home will soon have m ore significance to the general public than it ever can as a museum. It will be part of a story about the legendary martial artist and actor, as told by those that truly knew him best - his younger brother, Robert Lee and his older sister, Phoebe Lee. The announcement was made by a Beijing film company on the thirty-six years anniversary of Bruce Lee's death. The movie will cover Bruce Lee's childhood, his martial arts training, and the worldwide success that followed him until his untimely death. A Chinese entertainment company reported the movie news.

Kung Fu Kid When young Jaden Smith finishes his current school session, summer vacation will be spent with his family in China. It will, however, be a working vacation while the family films the Karate Kid remake, "Kung Fu Kid". Jaden will star as the movie's main character, while his parents Will Smith and Jada Pinkett-Smith will produce the film. Filming will take place in Beijing for approximately two and a half months. Besides Jaden Smith who plays the part of "Dre", the movie also stars Jackie Chan as "Mr. Han" and Taraji Henson as "Dre's Reporter Nancy Robinson is a fourth degree black belt in Tang Soo Do. An active martial arts instructor and a freelance writer published internationally, Nancy is your Examiner guide through the martial arts world. We are happy to have Nancy Aboard . keep yourself abreast of unusual Martial Arts News www.Examiner.com Martial arts

PRIMITIVE MARTIAL ENERGY IN THE EARLY MAN ! THE ORIGINAL WARRIOR AND HIS MARTIAL ACTION… By: Grm Sri Dinesh In the Early Man the Martial Conscious Force Expressed itself through the Emotion-Value. The Chaotic and Destructive situation of our world is due to the Lack of Plasticity of the Material World, which is unable to Assimilate the Big Luminous Change going on in the domain of the Primitive Subliminal Martial Consciousness. In the Gati Chi Martial Art Research, the Sense-Faculty is Communicated through the nervous network of Humanity, the functioning of which has to be Regulated. At the Beginning of Human Society, this Communication was based on the simple process of association of Gestures, a Body Language accompanied by a definite Psychophysical Process. In the Early Man the Martial Conscious Force expressed itself not through the Mind but through the Emotion-Value. The Martial Power is the Heart of the Human Family who Evolved first through tribes, then clans and then societies. In Martial Arts practice, Sensations and the Body’s Nervous Reactions to them have to be Observed Consciously while holding our Intellectual Activities in a Stand-By State, whatever the discipline we have chosen for our practice. My experience is that in the data given by the Intellectual Mind, a Large Amount of Information Originally Sensed and Felt by the EmotionValue is Distorted; that is why the Ancient Martial Sages of India took up a research on this subject, which is important in the domain of the International Defence System. Early Martial Education The Early Man was the Original Warrior, whose Consciousness was Forged with Pure Vital Emotions. In the early days of our Human History, Martial Arts Education was organized around certain Free Lifestyles, which consist in living in : . The Harmony of Light . The Luminous Joy. The Force of Equilibrium . The Mode of Action. The Passion to be Great Conquerors. Effort and the Struggle. The Force of Inaction. The Inertia by rejecting Dynamism. The Ignorance

The

By developing Conscious Observation we Discover that Warriors are divided into these three categories and we also find a Synt hesis of these modes of functioning, with Endless Variations. The Luminous Quality Warriors are very rare but with the Gati Chi System it is possible to Increase this Quality. In Gati Chi the composition of these Lifestyles can be Modified by the application of Intensified Conscious Acceleration. The more we are able to be Conscious and Intense during our Combat to live, the more Fluid the Principle of Separation becomes and the state of this situation becomes the Substance of the experience of Unity, from Faint to Precise, from Abstract to the Concrete Movements of the Martial Forces Active in our Universal Environment, such as :. Energy . Light . Motion . Speed . Extension . Substance . Action. These Seven Physical Phenomena of Life’s Principles are constantly Active in the Martial Zones of the Body’s Consciousness. Martial Knowledge The Seed of Conscious Unity without the Division of Forces The Creative Formations of the Martial Artist’s Movements are Full of Power, Carrying the Memory of the Force of the Origin. Each Contact of the Martial Artist with his Opponent brings Information on Martial Knowledge – the Seed of Conscious Unity without the Division of Forces. Martial Artists’ Resolution should be to Master Violence in order to Maintain Social Peace in our Daily Living. They are working in Silence and with Modesty throughout the world, as the Ancient Great Sages did, to Unite the Individual Forces with the purpose of Enriching the Daily Living Possibilities on our Planet. This Great Work started long, long before our Human Civilization took a definite shape, under the Leadership of Men Chosen by Mother Nature who took birth in our Human Family, among us, and whom we named Saints, Prophets or Living Gods. They continued this Task behind our Chaotic and Crazy Life Movements where Killing to Survive is the only way; where those who had the most Powerful Arms became the Chieftains of Society. Men observed the Hierarchic System of Nature and made their Society by doing like ants, bees and lions: living and dying for their Chief as the Animal-Men. The Ancient Sages of our Human Society had no sense of Separation but a Global View on Human Society and its Social Rights and Duties Forged Within. They represented the First Step Forward, leaping out with Freedom from the Animal Man. But Man has to continue his March… Without the Subliminal Knowledge Given by Martial Art Education Even the best Technique is Incomplete Since the very beginning of Human History, Man has always thought of living in Peace and Unity, and for that he has tried to Conquer the world to Establish Peace but alas, even at this very moment we are not in a position to express practically what exactly Peace is! We are witnessing a Constant Chain of Volcanic Eruptions of Violence in the name of Terror, Anti-Terror ad Fight for Peace and Protection, out of all control, which are Devastating the Planet. The most Modern War Tactics used in the third millennium are based on the resort to Technological Weapons under the control of satellites and other sophisticated devices, which are extremely Precise and make it possible to See from Far and to pilot them from space vehicles, from a Great Distance and without physical presence, even at night. This is definitely undeniable glory, and the means to be the Masters of the World. In the domain of War Tactics, the same Effort was made thousands of years ago in Ancient India. The Art of Fighting is derived from the great two Epics Ramayana and Mahabharata where the Fighting against the Force of Darkness, narrated through mythological stories, takes place with countless Weapons, Auto-Directed, Launched from a Great Distance, Precise in their execution and able to come back after hitting their targets – something like the Boomerang System or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, U.A.V. This is a Lost Science of War, the Source of Information and Inspiration for today’s Scientists. But problems have not been Solved, in the domain of Peace and Unity the situation has become Worse although the world is full of Nobel Peace Prize Winners with huge financial rewards. To Train soldiers to have Physical Abilities and make them do some prescribed drills and work with dummies - which is widely practised and brings lots of money - do not make an Army Strong and no Precise arm can Alone Save from a critical situation in the Battlefield. The International Community has made many war conventions to Humanize Human Rights but still everyday news bring the Undeniable Proof that even the best army service has Failed to Train Warriors to use their Subliminal Resources to Help them Maintain their Moral Equilibrium at the moment of Stress and Depression. They cannot be kept in the battle area, for their own good; therefore they cannot be Judged, nor can they be Punished for their Weakness. My humble Service through Gati Chi is addressed to all countries, for their Armies to Teach Warriors how to Use their Self-Arms: this is an Indispensable Task to Increase the Efficiency of the Army Training in order to Protect Peace by transforming our Ignorance into Luminous Actions. It is important to note that in each Cell we carry the Martial Energy waiting for our call to bring the needed Positive Actions in the Battle of Life. Throughout the world, the Physical Aspects of Martial Art Training are already in Activity but I must add that without the Subliminal Knowledge given by Martial Art Education, even the best Technique is Incomplete and will not produce Full Results, whatever the Efficiency of our style and discipline. Next time we will study the Subliminal War Zones… GM SRI DINESH

By: Lin Ai Wei The mind which we call the Buddha mind is none other than the mind of living beings. The only main difference is, the Buddha mind is not pre-occupied with, attached to the things unrealized Buddhas are. What are unrealized Buddha but living beings with no wisdom, virtue, morality; Patience, Compassion and Wisdom. All are the same, all have certain characteristics. A living being puts down their pre-occupied mind, all emotions and thoughts by not entertaining them with emotion, desire. Constant practice of this leads to wisdom, compassion, patience. When all is finally put down without a trace of defilement; emotional attachment, personal desire, there is enlightenment. It was said in the Sixth Patriarch’s Sutra, “Karma ended and emotions empty, defines a true Buddha. Karma heavy and emotions turbid, defines a living being”. People tend to think that having a physical body means one is not a Buddha. On the contrary, without a physical body, how can you become a Buddha? Utilizing the body and mind properly, one will become a Buddha. But, it is not that one mysteriously, magically turns into a Buddha. It is that one’s mind transforms from filled with emotional imbalances, to no mind of emotion at all. That doesn’t mean a Buddha doesn’t feel emotion and is dead emotionally. That means the Buddha is not moved by emotion; when someone dies, an unrealized Buddha usually cries in loss of the person. A Buddha knows that “Life and Death” are of the mind, and so no one is actually dying. That is the difference. To be in the ups and downs of emotions is going with the flow of turbidity because emotional ebbs and flows are but coverings to the actual truth of conditions. Though people consider feelings to be pleasant and lively, this is only because people think it to be that way. In actuality, there is no pleasant and unpleasant. Living beings have a problem with this, because they are so used to labeling and indulging in their good and bad feelings. This is the separation of the Buddha mind and the mind’s of living beings. The

separation exists only because living beings cannot put down their likes and dislikes, their views. The views of living beings is the dirt in the water, it is the clouds covering the sky, and it is the blue color we call the sky. These views, because of the strong attachment to them from living beings, deter the concentration of mind from the original nature. What is the original nature? It’s simple, just meditate and find out. In this we realize that the Buddha mind and the defiled mind are only a thought away. There is no real separation of Buddhas and living beings, yet there is separation due to the views living beings hold onto. Seeing the Buddha, is not really seeing the Buddha. Hearing the Buddha is not really hearing the Buddha, becoming a Buddha is not really becoming a Buddha. This means that if we see the form which we call a Buddha, it is because of our own views that it is a Buddha’s form. If we hear the voice of one we call the Buddha because of the profundity of the teachings, it is only that way because we view the teachings spoken to be profound. Becoming a Buddha is only viewed as a becoming because of the defiled thoughts viewed of in the mind of the living being. It is due to our views of ego, others, a being and a life that there is a view of separation of Buddhas and unrealized Buddhas. It is not enough to recite the words of a Buddha, and speak in the manner of how a realized master would speak. That is lying to oneself. What is proper is that once one realizes the way, attains enlightenment; there is no difference between living beings and a realized one. In this, there is no becoming a Buddha because there is nothing that is transformed. What is experienced is only passing, not real, a bubble, a dream, empty. Why use what is empty as a base for experience? Thus is such a life of living beings. About the author: Lin Ai Wei teaches at his cultivation school, Jing Xin Yuan, in Brooklyn NY. He also offers email correspondence classes for Buddhist and Daoist cultivation in terms of Meditation, Qigong and Sutra studies. Visit www.jingxinyuan.net for more information about his school, and teachings offered there.

your fighting; all of your movement should support the hit.

Training “In the woods” with Combat Isshinryu

You are only as good as your ability to hit.”

Grand Master Gary Alexander

We assume Seisan stance. We “square off,” as Sensei corrects my foot position with a quick downward glance

“Free as a bird” The setting sun paints the cloudless sky red-orange. The heat of the summer day breaks with the evening cool. It is time for another training session with Sensei out here “in the woods”. There is no better place to be. The glare and hum of fluorescent lights under a drop ceiling cannot compare to the din of the crickets under the glow of the

at my black combat boots. We always train in boots. Our boots dig into the dirt. Clumps of grass and mud fling outward as we kick. I can feel the incessant pull of gravity as I raise my right knee toward my imaginary opponent and my foot lashes out. If I can make this powerful kick work here, under these conditions, in these boots, I can make it work anywhere. “I am only as good as my ability to hit.” We turn our feet to form a T-stance. We step forward. I circle my arm back over my head to deliver a swift backfist strike to the bridge of my imaginary opponent’s nose. I remember to snap my wrist at the point of contact and roll my body into the strike. These are the details that Sensei reinforces with each and every technique. Every a block is a strike. Every strike is a hit. Every hit should have power. This is the formula for survival. We complete the kata just as a hawk glides overhead and perches himself in a branch high atop one of the “columns”. Moments later, a second hawk swoops in, followed by a third.

infinite sky. No scuffed and taped mat can match the feel of

the

firm

soil

and

turf

under

our

feet.

The

air

conditioning unit is not our climate control. Nature is the “dojo.” I am in Roosevelt Park, in Edison, New Jersey, standing in the center of the “Coliseum.” It is a circular field of grass ringed by immensely tall and sturdy oak trees. They rise from the earth like the weathered and pitted stone columns of an ancient temple. High above, their branches grasp outward, unfolding a canopy overhead that casts moving shadows on the ground as the leaves sway in the summer breeze. The sun dips further to the west. The shadows lengthen. I am performing Seisan kata with a man who is a legend in the art of Isshinryu Karate. Gary Alexander is a

Sensei looks up, “Hey, it’s Manny, Moe, and Mack. The hawks are back from their hunt.” My gaze drifts upward and I wonder what those hawks

Degree Black Belt Grand Master. He is the first North

are thinking, watching the two humans down below, in

American full-contact karate champion, an honor he won

their black karate uniforms, wearing their combat boots,

at Madison Square Garden in 1962. He is a member of the

punching and kicking at the air.

prestigious Black Belt Magazine Hall of Fame. He is a

I know what I am thinking as I look up at them. Every

proud United States Marine. He is unquestionably an

minute of every day, those three hawks are only as good,

historic figure in establishing the martial arts in America

or “alive”, as their ability to hit. The fundamental truth

as we know them today. He is also throwing a wicked

that Sensei embodied in Seisan kata, and at the core of

punch just to my left; his tall and angular figure moving

his martial art, is a daily way of life to those who call the

powerfully through the kata. Whenever we train, we move

“Coliseum” their home. The primal struggle for existence

together, punch for punch; kick for kick. This legend does

is all around me, at this very moment. You must have the

not rest on his laurels.

will to survive. You must hit well to live.

“You don’t train to fight one way and then perform kata another,” Sensei instructs me, “Your kata should support

Nowadays, the term “martial arts” conjures up images of bare-chested and tattooed warriors battling inside the cage for pride and glory. T-shirts and shorts emblazoned

with skulls and tribal art have replaced the traditional karate uniform. Gold and jewel encrusted title belts are more likely to be strapped around the waist than black belts. There is much debate among martial artists over the value of the traditional methods of training compared to the “real world fighting” of the mixed martial arts. Are these kata exercises just relics of a long distant past? Is this training really preparing me to face today’s challenges in the real world? What am I doing out here “in the woods?” But such questions ring hollow as I stand within the sloping field of the “Coliseum”. I can conceive of no greater “reality” than the one I now occupy. Nor can I ignore the “mixed” nature of the movements within the sequence of strikes, kicks, blocks, and grabs of Seisan kata. The snap, penetration, and power of Gary Alexander’s punch are not limited to an opponent of a particular time and place. It would be an equally devastating blow 100 years from now, as it would 100 years past. Perhaps it is just human nature to limit ourselves by definitions, to create contrasts and comparisons where none actually exist. The hawks that watch us are not consumed by such matters. Manny alights from his perch high above, and circles overhead one more time in the darkening sky. Soon, the last of the sunlight will have given way to the silver glow of the moon and stars. Our uniforms fade deeper into the blackness that envelopes us. The silence of the encroaching night is broken by the whip and crack of our punches and kicks. There is no better place to be, no more “real” place to be, than out here “in the woods.” More information on Gary Alexander can be found on his website, http://mysite.verizon.net/vzet3n68/garyalexander About the author: Patrick Bamburak is a professional musician, recording artist, and freelance writer who currently studies Combat Isshinryu “in the woods” with Grand Master Gary Alexander. Further information on Patrick’s musical work can be found at www.baitoven.com

Championship Kickboxing at the Circus Tavern Cookstown, Ireland From Our Friends at Shogun Magazine By: Steve Gosden In recent years mixed martial arts has taken root in Ireland, with clubs popping up all over the country making it easily accessible for newcomers to take up the discipline. With so much interest and promising talent in the country it was only a matter of time before a fully sanctioned official event was organized to pit these fighters against each other under a world recognized governing body of the highly respected ISKA, the event being Clan Wars. Clan Wars took place on Saturday August 8th 2009 at the Glenavon House Hotel, Cookstown, when Ireland seen its first fully sanctioned MMA event under the quality governance of the world’s most prestigious martial arts body the ISKA. Getting the ISKA on

board was a priority for the organizers who want to promote Clan Wars as a professional, safely governed event and shake off any previous MMA stereotypes that were tagged by people who did not fully understand the safety and quality measures that are taken or the training and effort put in by the fighters. It has been stated by the British Medical Journal (BMJ) in a published report of over 1270 fights exposures in the period March 2002 to September 2007 that “Injury rates in regulated professional Mixed Martial Arts competition are similar to other combat sports; overall risk of critical sports related injury appear low” The emphasis must therefore remain on the word regulated. At all times control and supervision in accordance with the rules must be adhered to in order to maintain this fact. Clan Wars aim is to help build MMA’s future in Ireland to showcase Irish talent and also to ensure quality events that will show that Ireland is catching up quickly with the rest of the world with shows that everyone can enjoy. I spoke to Paul Mc Laughlin (One of Clan Wars Promoters and IFS.NI coaches) “MMA is the fastest growing sport in the world and with help from a quality sanctioning body such as the ISKA will only help promote the sport in a positive light, provide high quality shows with the tightest regulations and strict medical health and safety policies. We have 3 doctors at cage-side along with 5 paramedics who are fully equipped with the latest medical equipment ensuring an extremely safe event for all the participants. One thing we HAVE to ensure is that the safety of participants is paramount and this aspect is our number one priority.” This aspect of the event was exceedingly well planned with full coverage of risk assessments, Health and Safety Policies, Insurance cover and Pre/Post fights health checks. It showed an extremely high safety benchmark. For a newly staged show I was impressed with the professionalism and attention to detail that the organizers had shown. From the strobe lighting effects, to seductive ring-girls, to

the bellowing walk-in music the tone of the night was set as inyour-face sports entertainment at its best and it certainly carried it out. But glitz and glamour aside, this night would have been meaningless without the fighters. With nine local clubs owcasing their best talent at Clan Wars it was exciting to see promising, well-trained professional athletes get in the cage and put everything they had learned in the long gruelling months spent in training into action. With 14 fights in total over the course of the night ranging from D class to C class, the variety of different disciplines was a credit to Irish martial arts. The fights themselves where very well matched as a lot of them went to the judges’ decision, which is rare for MMA events of this size. The fight of the night was the battle between James Gallagher from Revolution BJJ at Queens Uni and Andy Young from Frames Tia Jutsu. This was a classic striker versus grappler fight which was a war to the end with both fighters giving it their all. The fight went to the judges and James Gallagher was declared the victor. This would be an excellent rematch to see from what promises to be two great prospects for Irish MMA. Submission of the night went to Joe Fry from Israeli Fighting Systems Northern Ireland with a lightning fast takedown and arm bar in 8 seconds against another of Irelands great up and coming fighters Andrew Falconer representing Juku Ryu Ju Jitsu in Larne. Well done to Joe for an impressive display of speed and technique. The crowd was obviously impressed as they erupted with massive applause and cheers for young Joe. I have been to similar boxing and martial arts events in the past and I must say the quality of Clan Wars 2 totally went beyond any of my expectations regarding professionalism, quality, entertainment and regards for the safety of its competitors. It was excellently run and will definitely promote MMA in a more positive light in Ireland. I can not wait for Clan Wars 3 in Feb 2010 which will be held at a much larger event I am told and see the first fully sanctioned Pro fights with fighters competing from all over Ireland and England; hype for this has already begun with a large crowd expected from all over Ireland after the success of Clan Wars 2.

American Cane System Finds Home in Central New York By Dr. Nicholas Chuff On July 11th, 2009, the American Martial Arts Institute hosted two American Cane System seminars in Central New York. The American Martial Arts Institute is under the direction of its founder, Grandmaster Clifford C.

Crandall, Jr., and offers three distinct martial art styles. Its primary style is American Eagle Style, a traditional empty-hand martial art style formulated by Grandmaster Crandall. The second style offered is Takenouchi-HanganRyu-Matsuno-Crandall, a 300-year old iaido style, which was passed to Headmaster Crandall by his late Headmaster, Tsuneyoshi Matsuno. The third style offered is the American Cane System, founded by Grandmaster Mark R. Shuey, Sr., recognized internationally as “the Cane Master.” Grandmaster Shuey oversaw the seminar, which was presented by one of his certified cane masters, Eric Stalloch. Mr. Stalloch is also a chief instructor in the American Martial Arts Institute under his instructor Grandmaster Crandall and they are cofounders of SecureLivingOnline.Com. There were 2 separate seminars . The first cane seminar was open to the community. “It is wonderful to have seminars like this that pass on fundamental martial arts knowledge such as self-confidence and self-defense skills to non-martial arts,” said Grandmaster Crandall. And The second was a closed door for students of the American Eagle Style. It was clear from the seminar that the American Cane System has found a home in Central New York. I asked Grandmaster Shuey what he saw on the horizon. “For years I have been promoting my style, the American Cane System, and continue to do so, but recently I started Cane-Fu. The difference is that Cane- Fu is a self-defense program designed specifically to meet the wide range of needs of non-martial arts, especially senior citizens. There are also some new instructional DVDs currently in production.” To see seminar pictures and to learn more about the American Cane System, Visit www.amai-eaglestyle.com and www.canemasters.com

MONKEY MASTER RELEASES NEW BOOK By 6th Generation Master Michael Matsuda For the first time in nearly 10 years, an historical look at the rare and secretive art of Monkey Kung Fu is now revealed. Sixth generation Monkey Kung Fu Master Michael Matsuda, considered one of the leading historians and authorities on the monkey art, gives you a complete, detailed look at real Monkey style kung fu. Master Matsuda, who has studied the art of Monkey or Tai Shing Pek Kwar for 30 years and has authored two previous books on the art, feels that this new book is a complete, comprehensive look at the art. Monkey Kung Fu: History & Tradition is Matsuda’s latest and the book he feels explains it all. Throughout this 218 page book, the largest ever printed on the art, it will reveal everything you ever wanted to learn about Monkey kung fu but where afraid to ask. This also includes the uniforms, the actual monkey silver staff and how to create it, the formation of the five monkey characteristics (lost, tall, drunken, wooden and stone), monkey weaponry and more. The book entitled Monkey Kung Fu: History & Tradition, is published exclusively through VMA publications. Distributing the book to different vendors is Valley Martial Arts (www.ValleyMartialArts.com). Listed for $29.95, the Monkey Kung Fu book is something anyone ever interested in the monkey art should have in his or her library. From the founder of the art, Grand Master Kou Sze to today’s American Master Michael Matsuda, the reader will get an insight into this art like never before. For further information on the book or the training DVD’s, visit www.Monkeykungfu.com or www.ValleyMartialArts.com.

NERVES OF STEEL, PREVAIL

years of long support and assistance, gave to the delight of over 60 recipients and approximately 100 guests a well planned and extraordinary "Appreciation Banquet".

By: Sifu Abdulmuhsiy Abdurrahman

Philadelphia, Pa. Camp Greenland here, is well known for being the home retreat for the world reknowned ISKF, International Shotokan Karate Federation, an organization dedicated to the growth and development to true traditional Shotokan Karate, as handed down by its founder, Master Ginchin Funakoshi. The Camp each year host hundreds of Shotokan stylist from all over the world for a week of learning and comradery among all, and is hosted by many of Master Funakoshi's direct Students. In addition to learning, testing is given to deserving students for additional rank. One such individual taking an examination for his next rank, is my Brother in the Islamic Religion, Sensei Najib Baha Amin, of whom I've had to the pleasure of being friends with for the last 42 years, and was one of my first karate instructors when I was only 17years of age. After many, many years and months of anticipation and training for this day, Bro. Najib finally got his opportunitybut not to what he had expected. He was testing for his well deserved 8th degree black belt, but to his surprise and unlike the previous ones being tested in subordinate ranks and after waiting all day, about 7 hours, he was up, not before and audience but to an empty training hall before the two highest ranking Shotokan experts in the ENTIRE WORLD, Master Okazaki and Master Yaguchi. Talk about nerves of steel, at least having spectators would have cushioned the blow, but not on this day, he was there on his own. Now this is the clincher, after going through all of this, at the conclusion of the exam, the examiners, in esscense, closed their books, asked him to get dressed, and they left. No word of either having passed of failed, or to either get a neutral point of a rexam, nothing!! About a week and a half later, after being of pins and kneedles for that length of time, the news was finally related to him that he had PASSED, one of only two others in the ISKF in the world for this 30 nation federation!!!! Outstanding Brother Najib, and may ALLAH (the most high) allow you to continue to strive onward. Before I close, please allow me to point out that at the age of 78, Brother Najib can still do a FULL SPLIT!!!! Now put that in you pipe and smoke it.

BKC APPRECIATION BANQUET Balt., Md. The Baltimore Karate Circuit, BKC, was started nearly 15 years ago by well knowned national and excellent competitor Soke "Mike Panthers". After having a hiatus in activity for several years, Soke Panthers in his way to demonstrate his appreciation and gratitude for the many

Coming from all over the City of Baltimore, surrounding counties, and neighboring States, past participants and competitors enjoyed a priceless time of reunions, laughter, with big hugs and handshakes, that in order to really understand the impact, one would have to have been there. Starting off with delicious food and soft soothing music, many had the opportunity to renew past acquaintences, and to make new ones at the same time. Shortly thereafter, the Host, Soke Panthers, gave his heartfelt appreciation address thanking everyone for their attendance and to the honorees for their many years of loyal support and assistance, and in making this turnout a resounding success. This columnist had the honoree of serving a M.C. for the evening's presentations, and witness family members, friends, and well wishers give thunderous ovations to all of the well deserving honorees. As the evening came to a close, there was many, many pictures taken (to serve as a reminder) and exchanges of information in order to stay in touch with each for the future. Let us congratulate Soke Panthers on an outstanding job, and to serve as a reminder to all what can be done if our intentions are pure, and if we put our minds to it. Great Job!!!!

CITY SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS WITH FORESIGHT Balt.,Md. For Angela Seton, principal of an inner city school, and curriculum administrator Johnathan Brice, the concept of caring for Baltimore's city public school students goes far beyond the three "R's". They also look at self discipline, as a major factor in being successful as the students continue on their journey through life. With this in mind, when past "ACTION" Hall of honor inductee Sifu Gamel Spencer, came to them with a proposal of teaching martial arts to the students, they immediately ceased the idea. They saw the many benefits of how children involved in martial arts training, have made a complete turn around to more beneficial things, and life in general, as a result of their new venture. Training in the martial arts enviorment teaches one good manners, respect, team work, accomplisment, punctuality. determination, and the list goes on and on. They also saw how much fun children were having while being apart of the training process. Needless to say, that being ones to first go forth in unchartered areas, as a

pioneer, they have met opposition such as the economic condition we're confronted with today, and just some pessimist, whom doesn't think it will work, and as a result becomes complacent with no foresight of anything "down the road to success". We here at "Action" applaud Mrs. Seton and Mr. Brice in their efforts to bring this priceless GIFT to the students of Baltimore just as so many societies throughout the world have done with tremendous SUCCESS!!!!

PIONEER AWARDS BANQUET lenGgdale, Md. Once again, Simba Dojang Grandmasters Furman Marshall, and Reginold Jackson put on an outstanding and well run awards banquet that was slightly different from many others, in that this event was exclusively for people whom were among the first to make way for the Martial Artists of today to enjoy its many benefits. Nearly 300 awardees and guests were in for a grand time and much anticipation, because the known surprises of the unusual and special awards that are given out by Grandmasters Jackson and Marshall. The delicious culinary skills of the Chef and his supportive staff, along with the variety jazz and other soothing music, set the atmosphere for a fine outstanding event. Each table was decorated with different artifacts that many were eager to

have, and to also serve as a keepsake to the evening's activities. It goes without saying, all had a wonderful time and are looking forward to next year's event with much anticipation in order to see what tricks are up the Grandmasters Marshall and Jackson's sleeve for that time.

SUPER KALIS SILAT SEMINAR Windsor Mill, Md. Maestro Jun Paliangayan along with many other masters of the Kalis Silat discipline, and over 50 eager to learn participants, welcomed with open arms Grand Maestro Jon

Bais at the Black Tiger Martial Arts Academy for a day no nonsense and effective weapon use, empty hand self defense, and safety awareness and discipline in this beautiful school run by Master Guru Mustapha Del-Ali Rawlings on the beautiful spring afternoon. Traveling from numerous points of the U.S. and Canada, everyone had a serious and funfilled day of learning the finer points of this ancient martial art. This columnist had the honor of witnessing this exemplary seminar, which was one of the best I have seen and enjoyed in many, many years. Needless to say, all participants got their money's worth and More, as the time began to come to a close. To the delight of all in attendance, Grand Maestro Jon Bais took several group and individual photographs as a reminder of this auspicious event!!!

HARLEM GOJU GOT IT RIGHT By Dr. Michael Willett There has been a proliferation of Halls of Fames in the last 10 years. Everyone seems to be trying to cash in on the ego hungry Martial Artist that needs someone else to validate their existence. Harlem Goju got it right. First and foremost this was not a Hall of Fame event. This was an event that was conceived to honor a man among men. The late and beloved

“Major” Leon Wallace, was the central focal theme. Major Wallace was the first line of exposure in the community of Harlem, teaching Goju directly from Grand Master Peter Urban. He was a true legend in his own time. He fought all of the great fighters of that era and even posted a controversial win over the Texas Ranger himself, Master Chuck Norris. That legendary match isstill available on CD. I too did train with Major in his tiny Harlem Appletown Dojo. I have great stories of how Major taught that old school training but I don’t want to digress too far. That was the major premise of the night, secondarily Grand Master Sam Lee, decided to honor 7, only 7 Original Masters of the Martial Arts World (in order of appearance) Dr. Michael Willett, Hanshi Archie Rullan, Grand Master Sekwii Sha, Grand Master Rico Guy, Grand Master George Crayton Jr., Professor Ronald Duncan and Karriem ABdAllah (Al-Mu’assis). Now that is a very impressive dais.