Action Martial Arts Magazine #76

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

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Running Contributing Columnist Martial Arts Talk : Jung Shee James Lacy / Docs Report : Grm’s Robert Braff Nancy Robinson, Grmaster Buddy Van Boven , Susan Friedman Diaz , Kimberly K. White Contributing Goodwill Ambassadors

Shihan Joe Saladino / Prof Jonathan Stewart, / Grm Blackhawk San Carlos / Grm Jose Velez Soke Papasan S. Canty / Sensei Mark Huard / Baashkim Perelli Kathi Tasetano / Grm Joe Williams

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SokeS. Papasan Canty

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Al l M a t e r i a l S e nt t o Ac t i o n M us t b e s e n t b y E m a i l O r S e nt t o O f f i c e o n D i s k

Sensei John LiButti

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How does one become the “architect” of anything? He must first take an idea, draw up his blue prints and then supervise the project to fruition. Kuroshi-do is my idea.

Kuroshi-do, literally translated means “The Way of The Black Warrior” in Kuroshinese. This is the language devised by the 3 Kuroshi-do co-founders, which is used during classes to communicate between the instructors and students. It is a combination of a multitude of languages, namely Japanese, Kiswahili and Spanish. Kuroshi-do is the system of martial arts which combines the arts of Shotokan, and Kyokushin Kai Karates, Moo Duk Kwan Tang Soo Do as well as Aiki Jiu-jitsu and Judo.

In Kuroshi-do, Soke means founder or builder and is usually the head of a style or system. However, in Kuroshi-do, there are three co-founders. They are Sokes S. Papasan Canty, Haisan Kaleak and Lusayne S. Alston. “Kuroshi-do” came out of a meeting held in1972 in the old Kwanducks Dojo, located at 90 Watkins Street, Brooklyn, NY. This was the boxing gym located in the Howard Houses P.A.L. The move was facilitated by the fact that the school had outgrown its first location at the perambulator room located on Pitkin and Stone Aves.

It was at this time, that Papasan changed the dojo name from Kwan Ducks to the current spelling of Kwanduks Dojo. This was in line with the Korean spelling of Moo Duk Kwan. At that first meeting, there were seven young men; S. Papasan Canty, Haisan Kaleak, Lusayne S. Alston, John Keenan, Ken Cooper, Salim Al Rashid and Rickey Washington. It was decided that each of the seven, would return to their respective instructors and after a year, come back and contribute as much as they could to the creation of the new system of martial arts. This was a monumental undertaking as they still had to continue to teach at their respective dojos. It should be noted that when I first suggested that we do this, everyone had a long laugh at my expense. To make a long story short, only three instructors returned and we formed the nucleus of the Kuroshi-do co-founders. I, S. Papasan Canty was trained in; Aiki Jiu-jitsu, Judo, Shotokan and Moo Duk Kwan Tang Soo Do which I taught to Lusayne & Haisan. They also studied Shotokan as well as Kyokushin Kai. The first few years were trying, as Haisan and Lusayne entered the Navy and Army respectively, and the dojo was recovering from a scandal of their Sensei Hilani Chan’s, misappropriating of dojo funds. Rebuilding the community trust was the order of the day. During this time, I was assisted by Hanshi Kumosan “Spider” Turner, who later became my first Black Belt. We now have over 50 black belts and to date have never lost any. I believe this to be the case because I treat our black belts as men and women first, and then as martial artist.

During the absence of my partners, my mentor in Aki-

Elmore-Ryu Jiu-jitsu, Hanshi Charles Sparrow and I, went to Manhattan to meet with Grand Patriarch Peter Urban, Founder of American Goju (Urban Goju) in an attempt to find out how to create a new system or style. After a lengthy game of chess between Hanshi and Grand Patriarch Urban, we left with the answers necessary to accomplish our mission. I chose the name Kuroshi-do, in light of the fact that all three cofounders were Viet Nam era Veterans. I had just recently returned from a 4 year stint in the United States Air Force.

After a 7 year hiatus from the Air Force, I joined the New York Army National Guard. While in the Army, I graduated from Officer Candidate School and received my commission as an officer in the United States Army. Over the next 18 1/2 years, I received the training to become a platoon leader, company commander and a T.I. (Training Instructor). During Desert Storm, my martial arts training became a value as I was assigned to train the troops going over to Kuwait in the art of close quarters fighting (Jiujitsu). I eventually retired as a Major. I also retired from the Yonkers Police Department, after 21 ½ years.

Over the next few years, we began creating the kata and self defense movements. I developed 6 of the 11 empty hand kata, and was also responsible for creating numerous kata more than 16 weapons. I also reunited with a childhood friend Soke Robert “Sugar” Crosson , who introduced me, to Soke Don Jacob. These two men helped me improve my finesse in the Art of Aiki Jiu-jitsu while I continued to study Aki-Elmore Ryu under Professor Charles Elmore and Hanshi Charles Sparrow.

Sugar also taught me the art of making weapons and uniforms.

Sugar and Don were also very instrumental in helping in the implementation of the spinning and turning movements used in our brand of self defense. In turn, I helped them in the cataloging of their systems. I also cataloged the numerous techniques used in Kuroshi-do. I learned this art from Hanshi Sparrow while serving as his Uchi Deshi (inner student).

Next, I along with Haisan went to work on developing the curriculum, to include the written and practical examinations for promotions and the promotion ceremony.

First we instituted a grading system. The reading of Peter Urbans’ book, “The Karate Dojo”, which was given to me and autographed by the author, was our model for success. Then we created a time frame for achieving the different grades. I then placed this information into a small booklet which I called, “The Hip Pocket Trainer”. This I borrowed from my military training. As laid out in this document, the minimum amount of time it would take a student to make black belt in Kuroshi-do is three years. The student can also tell at a glance where he is in relation to his training. I designed the

written exams for each rank and the corresponding practical exams, as well as the review sheets. After completing our work on the Dojo Kun and Code of Conduct, I introduced the tying of the belt. I also designed the different promotion certificates and hand wrote the Japanese Kanji, which I learned as a member of the Air Force while stationed in Kyushu, Japan. The black belt ceremony which I created is one of the most unique ceremonies of its kind today, heralded by instructors and organizations the world over.

Finally, the designs for both logos were completed by Shodan-ho Ron Lucas from a design of a medallion which I purchased from Kinjisan Martial Arts Supplies.

Then I needed to figure out a way to get the name Kuroshi-do out to the martial arts community. I developed a demonstration team and competition team that traveled the world revealing the art of Kuroshi-do. Our first trip was to Fort Ord, California. This was the U.S. Army post that Kyoshi R. Nikwan Murphy was stationed at and teaching Kuroshi-do on. Only Hanshi Kumosan “Spider” Turner and Sensei Francisco “Kwansai” Basnight made the trip. The next trip was to Sarasota, Florida, where a team of seven went. Those trips were followed by outings to Trinidad & Tobago, Puerto Rico, and Canada. I also traveled to Venezuela, Spain, Germany and England. As the trips grew so did the teams and notoriety of Kuroshi-do. The students of Kuroshi-do competed at tournaments given by men the likes of Preston Carter, Fred Hamilton, Nick Addler, Tommy May, Gregg Tierney, and George Crayton. Under my tutelage, the name Kuroshi-do became a household word. I produced champion after champion.

I also promoted “Papasan’s Martial Arts Classic” and the Kuroshi-do Annual Tournaments.

Around 1976, I wrote the first Kuroshi-do Newsletter, where, masters like Jimmy Jones of Chicago, Maynard Miner of the JKA, George Young of Tong Dojo and Professor Charles Elmore were interviewed and written about. My series of tapes on the Kuroshi-do System is still in great demand today. As one of the founding members of M.A.G.I.C. (Martial Arts Grand Masters International Council), I added another dimension to my repertoire. I presently host the Kuroshi-do Hall of Fame here in Atlanta, GA in May of each year, as well as the promoting of the Kuroshi-do Anniversary each year.

As a member of “Sugar & Company” the international demonstration team (Sugar, Shon Baskin, Liz Jackson, and Enoch Williams), I have performed in Great Grand Master Aaron Banks’ Oriental World of Self Defense 7 times and also appeared on the Mike Douglas Show in Philadelphia, all during prime time. I also traveled to Venezuela with GGM Banks, GM George Cofield, and Kaicho Tadashi Nakamura to perform before the President of that country. It was the Jiu-jitsu demonstrations of this group of martial artist that inspired the self defense divisions of today. I

have since added writing to my resume. I wrote the book, “Help the Bear, A Road Map to Grand Mastery”. I am presently working on my second book to be released in in a few weels.

Both books can be purchased from www.Lulu.com.

When I’m asked what inspired me to build a 1500 square foot dojo in the basement of my Lithonia, GA home, I repeat the story of being a guest in Grand Master Thomas LaPuppet’s home on Eastern Parkway when I lived in Brooklyn. Upon entering his home, I was amazed to find myself standing in his dojo. I made myself a promise that if I ever reached the level of Grand Master, I would do the same thing. My relationship with GM LaPuppet stemmed from my training with one of his students, GM Bill Green.

Grand Master Green encouraged me to obtain an education. I’ve since earned a Masters Degree in Public Administration from Marist College in Poughkeepsie, NY, and have completed post graduate work at New York Medical College in family counseling. I also worked with Grand Master’s LaPuppet and Alex Sternberg on formulating the New York chapter of the Amateur Athletic Union.

With everything that I have accomplished, I believe that I have set a great example for our students to follow. My original goal was to teach that Kuroshi-do is a family, and that our students should strive to get a good education and one day move from the inner city into a home of their own, not just kicking and punching. Most of our senior students live in their own homes.

This impresses me more then their winning of any tournaments.

To date, I have been inducted into or nominated for no less than 100 halls of fame.

However the one that makes me the proudest is my latest. This past July, I was inducted into the Brownsville Recreation Center’s Sports Hall of Fame, in my home town of Brooklyn, N.Y. This was a case of “Chickens coming home to roost”, as this was home where my martial arts journey began in 1955 under my Uncle Marion Wallace, and the 73rd Pct. Gym was where I became an accomplished pugilist.

I have proven over my more than 53 years in the martial arts that I not only talk the talk, but I walk the walk. As “the architect” of Kuroshi-do, I continue to lead by example and that example has been the driving force in leading our students of Kuroshi-do in “The Way of The Black Warrior”. I believe that in order to become a legend, a person must build or create a legacy. Kuroshi-do is my legacy.

I can be reached on our web site at www.kuroshido.com, by e-mail at sokep22@aol.com or by phone at 678-6991787. The photo credits for this article go to one of my students in Atlanta and New York, Mr. Milton Signman Walters 917-4077622.

By R.J. Bishop www.printroom.com/pro/rjbishop

Spencer, NC If you have followed my column over the years you will have noticed that 7 out of 10 tournaments I write about seem to happen in the beautiful state of North Carolina. North Carolina is a Martial Arts Hot Bed for talent, schools and tournaments. I always enjoy my drive through the state

because of its beauty and the hospitality of the people there.

The is one of the more pleasurable tournaments on the DOJO Sport Karate Circuit. Larry and Sandy Dillingham are the Promoters for this wonderful “Old School” tournament.

Many different disciplines were in attendance including a th couple of local Kung Fu schools. The 14 Annual FOOTHILLS KARATE CLASSIC was actually larger than I expected. I don’t know the exact numbers but I estimated maybe 300-350 competitors.

Before the start of the tournament yours truly and Ricky Taylor were given certificates for the completion of the DOJO Certified Judges course given recently at The Rumble Karate Championships. I am honored to become a DOJO organization certified Judge.

In the Men’s 18-34 Sparring Grand Championship Jeremy “Mule” Moulton edged out Chandler Bolig for the cash and the Grand Championship title. Also congratulations to Kenny Morrison on winning the Men’s 35+ Sparring Grand Championship.

On a sad note DOJO competitor Angelo Sciulli was admitted to the hospital several days before the tournament.. Several months back I wrote a small piece in my article about this amazing man. For those who did not see the article Sciulli suffers from ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). Despite being wheelchair bound Sciulli still manages to compete in the Physically Challenged division. We were told he was in and

Also prior to the start of the tournament a huge plaque was presented to the DOJO Promoters for their outstanding service over the years for Joe Corley’s BATTLE OF ATLANTA. Congratulations to Ronnie Isenhour and Ricky Taylor for their induction into the FOOTHILLS KARATE CLASSIC Hall of Fame, and congratulations to Tola Rose on winning the Best Supporting School Award. The Judging was exceptional, and they did a great job moving the divisions along. That was a blessing because I don’t like inactive rings.

The adult Black Belt divisions were a little larger than I expected and featured some pretty good competitors like Carrie Goldbeck, Ernest Dukes and World Champion Gary Dillingham. Goldbeck and Dillingham were clearly the best two when it came down to the Grand Championships, which Dillingham won by a narrow margin.

out of a coma, but seemed to be doing a little better. Please pray for this courageous man. Sciulli trained under both Ricky Taylor and Jerome “Magic” Johnson. Overall this was a joy to cover and I hope to come back next year.

Congratulations to Larry and Sandy Dillingham for a job well done. I give the tournament a big thumbs up.

Weddington,NC As the tournament season starts to wind down it’s a scramble to try and accumulate as many NBL/SKI or DOJO points before the season’s end. The major players are fine tuning their skills before the Super Grands in Buffalo, NY. All these competitors know that the 2009 REED’S KARATE

NATIONALS is a pivotal tournament to hit to possibly achieve their goals.

WILLIAM REED, the mastermind behind this competitor friendly event has been around the block a while now and takes pride in putting on a quality tournament. As in previous years the REED’S KARATE NATIONALS was held at the Weddington High School in Weddington, NC, a suburb of Charlotte.

Other then the points there were other incentives to attend.

Every school with 10 pre-registered students received $100.00 , 2 free spectator/coaches passes and 2 lunch tickets. Much Grand Championship money was handed out to the winners, both Black Belt and Under belt.

Exceptional judges were assigned to each ring. I was particularly pleased to see my old friend GRAND MASTER DEWEY EARWOOD in attendance to help judge. I was also pleased to see ANGELO SCIULLI back on the tournament scene.

As I have mentioned in previous articles SCIULLI suffers from ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) and was recently in and out of a coma. It’s great to see him rebound and make it back.

I think this was one of the larger REED’S KARATE NATIONALS I have attended. It was wall to wall excitement that day at the tournament. Many of the top National Competitors from the Southeast were there to perfect their skills and hopefully make some $$$ too.

It was nice to see JOSH BAILEY and his TEAM SMAX at this event. JOSH himself is a very gifted contemporary competitor but now he is training his own group of budding stars. LAUREN DUGGAR, a 13 yr old 2nd degree Black Belt was particularly impressive, and she is on the cusp of becoming a World Champion. With continued hard training I think it will happen someday.

The students from SIFU MARK WILLIAM’S Shaolin Kung Fu School from Denver, NC performed well too. They went home with a large amount of trophies, a lot of 1st places too. They certainly are a force to reckon with.

TEAM ATL brought in a couple of their heavy hitters to impress all in attendance.

Congrats to ATL’S CHARLES PRESCOTT for winning the 18-34 Men’s Sparring Grand Championship. He matched heavy blows with TORREN DAVIS and got the win.

Also congratulations to JOEY SHIFLETT for winning yet another Executive Sparring Grand Championship by beating TEAM ATL‘S TONY HUMPHRIES. JOEY reminds me of a Timex Watch “He takes a lickin and keeps on tickin”.

TEAM FX’S LAUREN FERGUSON continued her dominance by winning yet another Grand Championship for 2009. This time she took home the 18+ Contemporary Forms Grands by edging out JOSH BAILEY. In the 18+ Black Belt Traditional Forms MOHSEM MAHMOUD edged out JOSH PAGE in a very close contest.

In the Jr. Black Belt Contemporary Forms Grand Championship, DAVIS TESTON of TEAM STRIKE FORCE and JOSEPH BOSCIA of TEAM SMAX showed everyone why they are two of the top upcoming stars in Sport Karate with the competition of the day. Although I felt BOSCIA’S form was a little cleaner, TESTON’S form contained more difficult gymnastic moves. It was so close between the two they tied and were forced to do a tie breaker which TESTON won.

The Jr. Black Belt Traditional Forms Grand Championships were just as good. One of the circuit’s hottest competitors CHELSA GOWER of TEAM LIFE FORCE KARATE performed a near perfect UNSU form to defeat the up and coming LAUREN DUGGAR from TEAM SMAX. Congratulations to LINDSEY WALKER, DREW WEATHERS, KAELA SARNOWSKI and JEFFREY BASS for their Under Belt Grand Championships wins.

I would like to thank WILLIAM REED and his lovely wife HEATHER for inviting me again this year. They certainly did another great job. I will be sure to mark this tournament on my calendar for 2010 and I hope you will also.

Gretna, VA The date is Oct 10, 2009, the place is the Gretna High School in Gretna, VA, and this is the beginning of a NEW era in the Southeast. The ALL STAR OPEN KARATE CHAMPIONSHIP st is the 1 ever tournament for the NEW ALL STAR SPORT KARATE SERIES. This NEW circuit already has 7 tournaments scheduled for the circuit year which actually started in Oct at this tournament and ends May 22, 2010. This is to allow the competitors to take the summer off and avoid burn out.

Both World Class Talents, SIOSON is a very strong Traditional competitor while DOSS is more of an entertaining Open Style competitor. They actually tied and a slightly fresher JEFF DOSS won the tie breaker. DOSS actually took home two Grand Championships that day, also winning the Weapons Grand Championship.

JERRY SELLERS took home the Men’s Fighting Grand Championship defeating JUSTIN ZO 7-5 Overall this was one of the best tournaments of 2009 and I really like the way it is organized. I see great things for the ALL STAR SPORT KARATE SERIES.

Hickory, NC Three things you can count on in life: taxes, death, and SHIHAN DOUG ARMSTRONG’S EAST COAST SPARRING st CHAMPIONSHIP falling on the 1 Saturday of December.

SHIHAN DOUG ARMSTRONG doesn’t go around claiming to

The ALL STAR SPORT KARATE SERIES uses only certified Judges that they themselves train. They have consistent rules at all the events, with the same age Divisions for Boys and Girls, and the same Championship Divisions at all events. This is the kind of OLD SCHOOL event I remember my son competing in back in New England.

I believe I counted 118 Divisions which is a far cry from the typical 200-300 division offered in the other circuits in the Southeast. More is not always better.

H.T. WALLER, the Promoter for this excellent event is an old school type of guy like I am. I really like how the divisions are set up, the Certified Judges he had on hand were good, the facility was more than adequate and they awarded something to competitors placing st th.

1 -8 .

Making a special appearance to the ALL STAR OPEN was NBL World Champion MELISSA “APPLE” SIOSON from California. When the Forms Grand Championship came around MELISSA and fellow World Champion JEFF DOSS pulled out all the stops in this one

have a “Super Organized” event because everyone knows that when you attend it will be very organized. Over the years Competitors can count on SHIHAN ARMSTRONG’S two tournaments, THE MOUNTAIN VIEW OPEN and THE EAST COAST SPARRING CHAMPIONSHIP to be among the best on the East Coast.

Prior to the start of the Sparring we had two st demonstrations. The 1 was one of SHIHAN ARMSTRONG’S teenage Brown Belt students giving us an entertaining breaking exhibition. The next demo had two Black Belts performing a battle against each other with a Bo staff. It was ok, but I preferred the breaking.

In case you are not familiar with the workings of the EAST COAST SPARRING CHAMPIONSHIP this is not a lose once and you’re done tournament, you are guaranteed to fight at least two fights, lose twice and you’re gone.

I was told that this was the largest attendance in several years. I guess everyone was using this tournament as a

tune up for the SUPER GRANDS in a few weeks. It’s a great time to try some new things that may help you at the SUPER GRANDS. Their were no shortages of World Champions that afternoon in the Hickory Metro Center. Stars like CASS SIGMON,

JARED PRESSLEY, BRADLEY NORRIS, JOEY SHIFLETT and SARAH JOHNSON were just a few World Champions out for a little entertainment.

As usual the best Judges in the Southeast were recruited to work the matches and for the most part they did a great job.

I saw a lot of great fights especially among the Black Belts.

Teen Star WAYNE EASTERLING showed everyone in the room why he may be one of the best young fighters in the country by winning still another Grand Championship Belt.

Another great fight was between World Champion JOEY SHIFLETT against TEAM MVKC’S RYAN FYRE. Both men have had some great fights in 2009. World Champion SARAH JOHNSON had an easy time beating her competition on the way to a Grand Championship Belt. JOSH PAGE gave CASS SIGMON all he could handle but came up a little short in their fight.

As usual we finished in about 4 hours and that was great especially for those having to drive a long distance to get home. The EAST COAST SPARRING CHAMPIONSHIP did not disappoint this reporter and I always look forward to a DOUG ARMSTRONG run production. I hope to see you at the MOUNTAIN VIEW OPEN in July or the EAST COAST SPARRING CHAMPIONSHIP in December 2010.

GRAND CHAMPIONS 10-13 Boys MATTHEW McKENNON 14-17 Girls DESIRE RICON 14-17 Boys WAYNE EASTERLING 18+ Women Under Belt SIMONE BAILEY 18+ Men’s Under Belt TOMMY KNIGHT 18+ Women Black Belt NOELLE BOLIN 18-34 Men’s Black Belt CASS SIGMON 35+ Men’s Black Belt CARLOS HOWAR D

Charlotte,NC One of my favorite Sport Karate activities was held recently at the Charlotte Hilton Hotel in the Queen City of Charlotte, NC. I have been to multiple Sport Karate Banquets over the last 15 years but the DOJO Banquet is the Best of the Best.

The DOJO Organization is one of the oldest Sport Karate organizations in the USA and that is due to the fine tournaments they promote and the great camaraderie among the Promoters. Many regional circuits have come and gone over the years (one recently lasted only 1 year) but the DOJO Organization has outlasted them all. In their st 1 year in office President COREY WAITERS and his Vice President LARRY DILLINGHAM did a fantastic job and the banquet was a reflection of that.

Every seat in the Hilton Ballroom was taken by a group of hungry, anxious Champions and their families. Grand Master DONALD McCLUNEY delivered the pre meal prayer and it was off to the Buffet Tables. The food as usual was great and the desserts were out of this world. Sitting with me for the evening was fellow Action Martial Arts Photo Journalist LIBBY WOOLARD from Georgia. LIBBY is our newest staff member and I had a lot of fun talking shop with her. She will be handling most of the Georgia Tournaments from now on, thus easing my hectic schedule.

Special Guest Speaker for the evening was Grand Master JOE CORLEY, one of the true legends in the sport and also the Promoter for the BATTLE OF ATLANTA. Grand Master CORLEY and the DOJO Organization have had a good working relationship over the years. The DOJO Organization has supported the BATTLE OF ATLANTA for many years.

After a stimulating speech Grand Master Corley was given a nice round of applause and helped out passing out the awards to the new DOJO Champions and posed with them when they accepted their awards. Some received jackets along with their trophies.

About a dozen or so people were recognized for their participation in the recent NBL Super Grands in Buffalo. DR. MARK LAUGHLIN of Life Force Karate competed in 8 divisions at the Super Grands and won 7 of them, thus winning 7 World titles.

Overall I rate the DOJO Banquet a 10 on a scale of 1-10. It just doesn’t get any better than this. Thank You to the DOJO Promoters for having me again this year, it has always been a pleasant experience.

By Grandmaster James Patrick Lacy I hope all my loyal readers of Martial Arts Talk had a great summer. My Kenpo teacher (2nd generation Ed Parker lineage, and Grandmaster of the Doo’s familiy Tai Chi Chuan System,) had a great black belt test that I was asked to sit in on and sign diplomas. The biggest event I missed was the celebration of his wife Karyn’s life; who graduated to the higher realms this year. Over 250 people were there and his sons hosted dinner at their homes. Karyn was a nurse and a great wife to Coach for many decades. We send our loving thoughts to Karyn and all the lives she affected in a positive way, including me.

On another note, this year saw Grandmaster Brian Adams of Integrated Martial Arts re-locate to North Carolina. I believe The Lord sent him to share his knowledge with the elite special forces in that area. I consider Brian to be the most knowledgeable man I know in chin-na. He was a student of Bruce Lee, invited by Dan Inosanto. He had the first Kenpo School in San Diego and is first generation Ed Parker family tree black belt lineage. 18 Daoist Palms made great worldwide progress this year as well. Our schools in Sweden, British Columbia, England and the Netherlands are doing well. My New Jersey Rep. Shi Fu Kevin James Ison is following a great path of service to his community. The Veterans of Foreign Wars have donated space for him to teach and he has been not only commended by the Mayor; he has the Major’s blessing to help in any humanitarian way. This is how I built my career; by getting in the trenches and teaching those that need it regardless of income. No honest work goes unpaid or un-noticed by God. I saw Chuck Norris and his wife on the Huckabee Show talking passionately about health care. I just read the Barefoot Doctor’s Manual.

If you don’t have a copy, get one! I am done with the medical part. The herb section is familiar but I am reading it page to finish. Like dim mak, I study a page or two and ponder deeply in meditation. I usually do not highlight the first read, but rather the second or third. Any martial art teachings are mainly crippled by lack of The Urantia Book study, but that said; arguably, the same could be said of The Barefoot Doctor’s Manual.

At about 500 martial art books I cherry picked for a lifetime, none equals the information in Mao’s Barefoot Doctor’s Manual. While Republican warlords were running a corrupt regime, the peasant farmers taught them a lesson. It took Mao to share this priceless information which was jealously kept by the rich warlords as power over others and glory for themselves. The rest is history. From 1949 in China to the last election here in America, we now know the end game is already playing out as in cooperation and commerce between communism and democracy. The Mayan calendar and biblical doomsday events will never unfold like Nostradamis or the others even visioned. California in 2012 will shock the entire civilized world when its’ participants in the democratic process do the unthinkable. I’ll let you all wait and see…I don’t want to stifle your imagination. Let us just say it will be good and progressive.

My dim mak reading is coming along. One cannot learn dim mak, dim ching or dim hsuey very well or at all without research. Ironically, reading a point a night and remembering it in the morning really helps develop intelligent jargon or nomenclature. I have also found typos and major

mistakes that would have only been noticed by reading slowly and meticulously each and every word, and cross checking each chart point references for correct position. The iron claw and the roller bar are catching on, but folks are still being sold “sand in bamboo tubes,” and still using wimpy BB’s, beans and peas.; let alone the mini strike bags with zippers…listen up, make your own! Unless you have a kids or girl’s class and you want to introduce them to the traditional method as inferred by the common questions amongst masters in Canton tea shops where ‘the question’ was “how long have you been rolling the bamboo tube?” Ohh…and they used ‘sand.’ The roller bar and grab bag I use were given to me by Wai. It is a 2.5 inch diameter and 2.5 feet long. The ends were welded and one end has a screw opening/closing unit. The bar is solid steel and filled with lead shot. A bag of lead shot is about $25 – or a dollar a pound. It does not have to be any specific size; whatever is on sale at the gun re-loaders shop. About 35 pounds go into the bar. That means you will use the remaining 15 pounds to use for making your grab bag. The grab bag can be 5 pounds to 7 pounds for smaller folks and 12 to 15 pounds for larger folks. Lead is a toxic material, so handle safely at your own risk, obey all laws and consult your doctor. I cover the steel with electricians tape rolled along the length of the bar. Don’t breath lead dust and wash your hand. Grab bags should be made using the best strongest leather you can find. Look for a shoe repair store that may have scrap but thick leather cheap. Leather should be sewn on three sides and turned inside out so that the rough side of the leather is on the outside and smooth on the inside. There are many ways to use the roller bar and grab bag, but you will need jow. Check out my first three DVD’d ($6.00) each or so with Century to learn how to make your own and use it correctly. You can also order from my new versions I have put together that include even more, on my site or by calling direct.

Remember to use galvanized pipe threaded at Home Depot or Loews, and screw on end caps. Do this over wimpy PVC, bamboo, cardboard carpet rolls or other ridiculous kiddy substitutes.

Don’t just study breaking, study real iron palm. Some of my iron palm types take eight years just to get through – not counting time spent over a lifetime using repetition; the only way to make something perfect.

Time is required in any undertaking, so don’t squander it in neglect. Be strong for your body type. Frank Zane weighed 175 when he beat Arnold at the flat bench…over 500 pounds. That type of power will turn a simple headlock into a submission or kill move. Any counter would be too late.

That kind of power can snap a neck in a hundredth of second.

Keep it real and learn about real martial energy…way beyond “chi” in books for the masses. The Urantia Book.is the only source for sanity regarding Light and Life that is way beyond the drivel we have been fed.

When TUB gets to your area you will finally understand if you are smart enough and your grounded in Jesus as the only true Master. Might always makes Right when templated in sanity…Jesus within through Holy Spirit. Think the Buddhists or Daoists knew this? It took the big brain to win WW1 and WW2. Just as I said after 9/11…police stuff, like Korea. So get to work and learn to love what you do. Be the best!

Light and Life Grandmaster James Patrick Lacy 7th generation 18 Daoist Palms

JOHN MATTHEW PLUNKETT Recently the Martial Arts in the Southeast suffered a great loss. John M. Plunkett, 44, of Newton, NC passed away Saturday June 27, 2009.

He was born Sept 1, 1964 in NYC. John and his wife Drenna “Dee” were the Co Directors for the Martial Arts Tournament Tour (The MATT).

John was also self employed in the construction industry. John and Drenna’s daughter Kaylee is a Black Belt and a karate champion.John was a tireless worker, often showing up at tournaments totally exhausted from working the following night. That did not stop him, he and Drenna helped to organize and coordinate about 95% of the tournaments in the Southeast.

If you needed something done you could count on John to do the job right. John was totally dedicated to the Martial Arts world, and the Martial Arts have lost a great friend. His montra was “The way you practice…….. Is the way you will perform.

74 Year old Grandmaster Wins the Gold in Judo Recently G Grandmaster John Roseberry Won the Gold Medal at the Cornhusker games in Lincoln,Ne in Judo. shihan John Roseberry a 7 times marine Judo champion and was alternate in for the US Olympic team the event.

The cornhusker games are given each year where over 15,000 athletes compete for top honors from around the state of Nebraska.

Grandmaster Roseberry is the Chief Instructor and founder of the Shorie Shobukan Budo Organization which Hombu is in Lincoln, NE. He also was a top student of the legend Seikichi Toguchi of Okinwan Goju Ryu Karate. Shihan Roseberry sponsors the international Shorie Shobukan Convention in June the weekend after father day annually, it includes Karate Jujistusu ,Judo, Okinawan Kobudo, crippling and much more, for more information feel free to call Shihan Roseberry at 402 474 5425

GRANDMASTER GARY ALEXANDERS IAMA “HOLIDAY” HALL OF FAME AWARDS BANQUET

The International Association of Martial Artist, founded by Gary Alexander, Shihan, 10th held their Annual “Holiday” Hall of Fame Awards Ceremonies on 2009 in Woodbridge,

N.J.. A capacity crowd of many of the most influential martial arts leaders, Black Belts, Champions, from all sectors in the U.S. were in attendance.

This years event set the theme to honor Armed Forces Active Duty, and Veteran/ Martial Artists. Additionally, many American Martial Arts Patriot Leaders et. al. stood up and were accounted for.

To great applause, the U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard from the Eatontown, N.J. post presented “Colors” while the duty Bugler Mac Tasetano, played the Marine Hymn, and the National Anthem.

The attendee’s were then served fine foods described as best in the circuits. The location for this event was the Forge Caterers Banquet Center in Woodbridge, N.J. and the ambiance of the facility together with the DJ music set the scene for a commendable evenings event.

After dinner, there was a mandatory dance session of forty five minutes where all Had a chance to dance with their partners again setting a subtle scenario bringing us into the Awards segment.

The Awards segment was exciting from start to stop and commented upon by spectators that the array of “Three Honored Guests” dignitaries by Truly Legendary persons put forward keynote speeches of true essence, such as America’s Disposition (America Not at War- The Military is!) in the world today, a thought provoking address offered by Colonel John B. Alexander, then Professor Ernie Cates, addressing America’s Martial Artists contributions to the youth of America. The Legendary David Toma. Former Newark, N.J. Police Officer, speaking of the decadence taking over our society unbridled and what to do about it.

Backgrounds of these men “Honored Inductees, reads like a Hollywood script

Guests”

and

Virtual Martial Arts Competition Master Ron Tramontano

- The Martial Arts Network Goldberg-Founder of Martial Arts Magazine, have joined forces to bring you a "World Renowned Virtual Martial Arts Competition.

Submit your best videos into this Worldwide Virtual Martial Arts Competition. At the end of the year we'll see who the top competitors are, from all over the world.

It was bound to happen sooner or later; the first Virtual Martial Arts Competition. WOW! And who do you think would put something like this together? You guessed it! The Martial Arts Network (Tman.com) and yours truly, Master Alan Goldberg. Master Ron Tramontano and I have joined forces to bring the Martial Arts Community a truly World renowned event. Competitors from around the World will now have an opportunity to compete in a world arena for all of us to see. The first tournament to have virtually an unlimited number of categories in which to compete. In November of 1995, TMAN, as it has become known, became the first global Martial Arts presence on the web. From November of 1995 until today, Master Tramontano has worked to integrate what we love to do, into the lives of every person in every country around the world. It's time to get out the video equipment, show us what you got. You need to jump head first into this one. It's about to get interesting. Here's how it works.

When 5 (five) videos have been submitted in the same category, a competition will take place, and a winner will prevail. That winner will be notified that he or she has won and has moved to the next five submitted videos in that same category. Once a video has won 5 (five) times in the same category, the video is removed and placed in holding until October of that year. At this time, all videos in holding in the same category will compete for all around world champion. Rules For Competitors: Must be in a Uniforms and state at the beginning of the video clearly, The Category (first), their Name (second) and PayPal confirmation number provided to them by PayPal. Length of video: Not to exceed 4 (Four) minutes. Tip: Good Quality, Proper Execution and short to the point Video. and

Master

Alan

Full Contact Karate League Raises funds for local youth The New Jersey Continuous Contact Karate League (NJCCKL) is not only becoming a great competition venue for New Jersey based full contact karate fighters, but is also supporting its local youth.

The NJCCKL, which was founded by Yvonne and Joel Levy, of Highland Park, NJ, is also raising money for some home town high school students.

“We found out that the junior class of Highland Park High School was completely broke, and would have a hard time doing any extra-curricular activities,” said Joel Levy, the NJCCKL president.

So an unlikely union took place. A full contact fight league partnered up with a school district, and everybody is happy.

The league hosts its events in the Highland Park High School gym, where kids, teens and adults compete in single full contact 'stand up' matches in front of hundreds of spectators. Even the Levy's own children are among the competitors. The league then donates a set percentage of the gate to the school’s junior class. “I love it,” said Yvonne Levy, the NJCCKL vice president. “Not only is it a great family event, but I graduated from HPHS, so I am happy to give something back.”

Principal, Fredrick Williams was happy to put this together. “it brings some excitement to the school, and is a great fundraiser for our kids,” he exclaimed. “The Levy’s and their staff run an extremely professional event, and we are very pleased about our partnership.”

For more information about the NJCCKL, jlevy@njkarateleague.com, or yvonne@safekarate.com.

GMG, CAN YOU ADD THAT ALL SCHOOLS WHO PREREGISTER 15 OR MORE COMPETITORS WILL GET A SCHOOL POSTER PHOTO WITH CYNTHIA ROTHROCK ALSO FRIDAY SEMINAR " GET THE COMPETITIVE EDGE" WITH CYNTHIA ROTHROCK LET ME KNOW . RESPECTFULLY MASTER E

Saturday , April 17, 2010 Clarks Summit Elementary School Clarks Summit , PA.

Official National Qualifier For The 2010 NAFMA National Championships Atlantic City, New Jersey Tournament Director Master Eric Kovaleski

Special Guest Star - Events – Traditional Forms

Registration 9 AM Starts 10AM

Sharp

Open Forms Weapons

“Lady Dragon” Cynthia Rothrock 5 Time World Champion

Sparring Breaking

ALL SCHOOLS WHO PREREGISTER 15 OR MORE COMPETITORS WILL GET A SCHOOL POSTER PHOTO WITH CYNTHIA

ROTHROCK ALSO FRIDAY SEMINAR " GET THE COMPETITIVE EDGE" WITH CYNTHIA ROTHROCK

Jump Front Kick Jump Side Kick Plus ,

This is A WKU Event !

Spectators $7 Under 8 Yrs old $5

Special Needs Divisions

Pre – Registration by March 20th 2010 : $45 first event, $5 each Additional event At The Door : $60 First Event, $5 each Additional event ( Cash Only ) NO REFUNDS

Hosted By Master Kovaleski’s Tang Soo Karate Schools Inc.

Venerable Warriors

By Dr. Michael Willett

Man by Choice / Male by Birth The book Man by Choice / Male by Birth; is soon to be released (late March). I have a real need to share some selected portions of this work with you our dear readers. If you pardon my expression, I am sharing snippets of the book with you because I am pregnant with this monstrous, herculean task and my water is about to break.

The climate of manhood in 2010 is in a state of emergency.

From the very halls of Congress to the very playing fields of major sports, men are falling and they won’t get up. Infidelity has been the headlines in every periodical across America.

Manhood and what it stands for has been brought to its very knees and now has to be redefined. Our legislators and sports heroes are held to a high level of expectancy. A conduct that is above reproach, without predigest to gender. Why don’t we hear stories of our female legislators or our female sports stars embroiled in great battles of infidelity? It’s not because it’s not happening, it’s simply because like it or not, society has placed the male at the head of the class, even though he might not be ready to serve as leader. Society has placed the man, as the one to model after, that itself is not a bad thing but that also means we look to men for our answers. In that case, man will always fail and fail miserably. Our sports stars and legislators are not the only ones that have failed. Many of our leading Pastors, Priest and teachers have succumb and been by seduced by the fragrance and allure of that magnificent creature we call, woman.

The woman in all her magnificence is so beautiful, so sweet, so mellifluously and on rare occasion, so manipulating. As strong as we men profess to be, we pale in comparison to our female counterparts and they know it. There is so much more I want to share but let’s wait for the book, ok!

A man is a male who has made a personal resolution with his maker to embrace and display morality, purity and sobriety. A man will speak truth in the face of the most adverse conditions.

A man will always display a mature and responsible persona in his daily life. A man will always make his decisions out of principal and not out of emotion.

A man will always be accountable and submitted to a higher authority both spiritually and naturally. Manhood is a privilege of corrected consciousness

27TH ANNUAL BATTLE OF BALTIMORE Essex, Md.

Just as it has over the last 27 years, Master John Burdyck's Battle of Baltimore Open martial arts tournament, was once again held here at the beautiful Essex Community College's gymnasium on this fall of the year weekend. This 212 divisional event saw more than 500 spectators and 315 competitors enjoy a variety of martial disciplines at their best on these two funfilled saturday and sunday mornings.

Coming from Pa., N.J., N.Y. Va., N.C., and virtually from all over the state of Maryland, everyone got their money's worth, and more, because there was so much to be enjoyed. Ranging from ages 9 and under to 50 and older men, women, teenagers, and children competitors had the opportunity to be judged by a wide array of well-known referees, and judges from a large assortment of martial arts backgrounds.

There's an old saying that states, "THOSE WHO FAIL TO PLAN, PLAN TO FAIL". This, as many can attest, doesn't apply to Master Burdyck, because he always crosses his "T's" and dot's his "I's" in EVERY facet of his tournament for those coming out to show their continuous support; starting off with the officials meeting early in the morning, until the grandchampionships in the early evenings. The beautiful trophies, customed designed medals, to the world championship belts (yes World Championship Belts), competitors from all over, makes sure that they ink in his date on their calendars. If you want to receive quality awards, fair and impartial judging by some of the best around, regardless as to your style, and just an over-all good time, then we here at ACTION urge you to do the same!!!! By the way, for all of you Chinese martial artists, Master Burdyck has set aside part of the large gym just to accomodate you and by Kung Fu judges exclusively!!

Watch these pages for his next event, you'll be glad you did!!!!!!!

BLACK TIGER MARTIAL ARTS CHAMPIONSHIPS Balto., Md. Guro Mustafa Del Ali and supporters held in grand fashion to well run and exciting National Martial Arts Championship here, at the state of the art Goucher College located here. Coming from California, Ohio, Balto.,Md., Dallas, Texas, Chicago, Indiana, and surrounding counties, over two hundred spectators saw nearly two hundred competitors did their best in this ninety six divisional tournament. This USKA (United States Karate Assoc.) and PKC (Professional Karate Circuit) sanctioned event saw many well known Masters and Grandmasters of multiple Martial Arts disciplines on hand to lend a helping hand and support, Masters John Venson and Eddie Bethea are only two of so many.

Fairness and Fun were two of the main objectives of this event, and needless to say it lived up to that billing. The impartial and efficient officiating staff, made the competition that much more enjoyable which brought obvious signs of sportsmanship and enjoyment. The final

event of the day was the much anticipated grandchampionships that brought loud cheers and excitement from those assembled. After the dust had

settled, and emerging as the best of the day was Reginald Venson in Forms and tournaments director's son Brandon Ali-Rawlings in Sparring.

MPKA OPEN TOURNAMENT Dundalk, Md. Just as so many times before at this comfortable locale, the Dundalk Community College served as the venue for Grandmasters David and Etta Grosscups's MPKA's (Maryland Professional Karate Association) open martial arts tournament on this beautiful and sunny morning. Seeing approximately one hundred eighty five competitors and two hundred twenty five spectators fill the gymnasium to see the best in local competition in this eighty five divisional event. Seeing competitors from five and under to fifty and over, male and female martial artists from numerous disciplines performed at their very best in order to impress the judges and take home some of the many beautiful trophies in order to show recognition of their hard work and efforts.

Starting things off was the playing of the national anthem, followed by the introduction of the many referees and judges coming out to lend their support, the weapons divisions were first on the flate, followed by self-defense, forms, and ending with sparring. The children's division brought loud cheers and standing ovations as the future martial artists performed to the best of their ability.

Although the Grandchampion was the last event on tab, the vast majority stayed behind to see those who had come out on top, and the excitement it well worth their while. The tournament ended with bright smiles and warm handshakes and photo opts as a reminder of what had taken place on this fine day.

The 3rd Annual North East Open th

Held July 11 2009 at the Albany Marriott by Master Adam Grogin, owner of Pil-Sung Martial Arts. Building on the success of his two previous tournaments, Master Grogin delivered yet another well planned and meticulously organized tournament. The philosophy of exploring and recognizing the beauty and strength of all different styles of martial arts, rather than just finding out who is best, is what makes this tournament unique.

Competitors came from as far a field as Canada and the UK. The standard of competition was high, but the level of sportsmanship was even higher. One of the extraordinary things at the North east open was the friendships that were made on the day. Competitors were fierce in their desire to win but could be found cheering on a student from a rival school. The camaraderie and support made this tournament a notable exception to the too often cut-throat tournaments where winning at any cost seems to be the norm. Competitors could be found exchanging training tips and demonstrating new moves, ultimately forging new friendships.

Another treat for competitors and spectators was the highly anticipated night show which included the last of the competitions – the demo team division and the extreme kicks division. Sponsoring the extreme kicks division was Natural High, a not for profit organization (www.Naturalhigh.org) which encourages teens to avoid drugs and alcohol and to find their own natural high. The exuberance and energy of the extreme kickers exemplified the philosophy of natural high and exhilarated the audience who were on their feet cheering all the competitors to push themselves to their limits. The winners all received prizes donated by Natural High.

A sparring demonstration by the Canadian three times world champion Jason Grenier, proved popular with the crowd who enthusiastically cheered on both Jason and his opponent. The Chinese sleeve dance with its grace and poise was contrasted by the bold and dynamic breaking and chi energy demonstrations by GrandMaster Elton Trower and the USBA/WBA Breaking Team. At the end of the evening Master Grogin was appointed Regional Director for New York State for the USBA/WBA in a presentation by Grandmaster Bergamo & Master Serrano.

Karate Tournament of Champions 2009 By: Susan Rhonda Friedman

Seiko Hanshi Rick Diaz's, Karate Tournament of Champions (KToC) is growing to be one of New York's finest martial tournaments. Competitors from as far away as Columbia, Pakistan, Bermuda and Chicago as well as the Tristate area competed in KToC 2009, held at ELMCOR Youth and Adult Gym in Queens. KToC has grown tremendously over the past few years with the 2009 event having over 500 competitors. Due to the popularity of the event, KToC 2010 will be at the Queens College Fitzgerald Gymnasium located on Kissena Boulevard in Queens a

large spacious facility with ample parking that can hold a larger number of rings enabling Hanshi Diaz to add more rings and divisions including continuous sparring and team fighting.

New friends met and martial arts techniques shared as competitors of all ages and ranks waited patiently for their divisions to be called.

KToC has a great array of styles. There was plenty to watch as kung fu students from Shaolin New York, Harlem Goju, SJ Kim, Rudo Ryu, Elite Martial Arts, Delgado Ichimaru Kai Kan and scores of other schools competed in this fun friendly and fair event. KToC, known for its diverse and quality competitors, beautiful 6-foot trophies, cash prizes and fun giveaways such as comic books, and small toys for the little ones, pens, and notepads for spectators, instructors and parents is looking forward to moving to Queens College. Vincent Scarduzio, a national competitor and KToC 2009 Youth Grand Champions commented, "Hanshi Diaz really cares about his competitors and spectators and makes an great effort to ensure everyone leaves happy" Adult Forms Grand Champion Sa Bum Nim Miguel Lopez from Tremont School practiced hard all year to take the grand at KToC 2009. 2008 Grand Champion winner, Kung Fu stylist Y Chen, said, I will be back in 2010 to compete to win my title back."

This year Hanshi Diaz donated a portion of the proceeds to JoAnne Hutchins, founder of the "Moms Who Kick" calendar whose dona tions go to the American Cancer Society. The "Moms Who Kick" celebrities were present and graciously treated spectators and competitors with signed autographs and pictures with a purchase of one of their calendars.

Do not forget to Save the Date for KToC 2010- November 21, 2010 at Queens College.

Please go to WWW.KARATETOC.COM for more information.

Hanshi Diaz will also be hosting a FREE Teen Tournament, "Fists for Fitness" on May 15, 2010. The event will be located at the Al Oerter Recreation Center in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. The goals of "Fists for Fitness" is to inform teen of the benefits of good physical fitness through martial arts training, This event is in collaboration with the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation.

BLACK TIGER MARTIAL ARTS CHAMPIONSHIPS The City of Gold Battle of Champions

by Libby Woolard, Powder Springs, GA th

The gold dust was flying at the 9 running of the City of Gold BOC. Subtle, easy to follow tournament

Attentive volunteers, coordinated by Paula Hines, long time CFO and administrator of Hines and Hines Ministerial team, cheerfully staffed the concession stand and registration stations. Active parents, close friends, and reliable students comprised the ranks for tournament set up and tear down.

The beauty of the Georgia grassroots tournament circuit is the mutual support from the schools represented on the mat. A marked even flow and a seemingly flawless execution mint The City of Gold as a seriously fun tournament.

9th Annual NY Championships Written by: Susan Rhonda Friedman

signage guided hungry competitors and eager spectators to Villa Rica’s Gold Dust Park on the first really cold morning of fall.

Georgian martial arts pioneer Mascerlin “Bat” Hines, welcomed all and carried the mantel of promoter articulating guardianship at the forefront, opening the tournament with prayer, and enforcing safety by requiring proper safety gear.

A synchronized kata demonstration energized the start of the musical and weapons competitions. Young and old touted skills with kama, sword, and performed Bōjutsu with traditional staffs and “toothpick” bos.

Other competitors also wielded their weapons with power, skill, and panache.

Vender Moises Olguin of Valley Print and Signs, provided a variety of preprinted tee shirts to which he added tournament information for just the right sizes! His excellent price of $10 drew a steady clientele of competitors, parents, siblings, and spectators. Grand Master Hines mentioned the need for an equipment vender to supplement the competitor’s cash of protective gear.

A unique tournament, attendance down because of a sagging economy, yet, Grand Master Hines drew some great Georgians! Tournament Coordinator Young S. Won, Southern Open Nationals in Phenix City, AL, busied himself in supplying center judges, corner judges, time and scorekeepers for each ring. Battle of Atlanta Joe Corley, strolled in for the sparring matches and coached several fighters. An introduction to legend Ben Kiker yielded an th invitation to his 36 Annual Tri-State Karate Championship in Dalton, GA. Tony Young, 2009 Year-End Nationals of Fairburn, GA, served tirelessly as “ring master” for the tournament.

Kuroshi-Do Soke Papasan Canty, Rhonda “Ridgehand” Alexander, New Tradition Ricky Murray, and “Ironman” Ian Evans were all at ringside judging forms, weapons, and sparring. Oh, Rhonda said she was planning to open a school back home in SC right out from Spartanburg! Moreover, the hard working competitors... were outstanding, beginners to masters! Really wild uniforms... albeit this circuit is very relaxed about color, the students displayed mad skills! Some contenders from earlier in the season had risen in rank, switched to a different weapon, or had picked up a new form and were racking up the points!

Richard Fescina and Nicholas Bruno hosted the Ninth Annual New York State Martial Arts Championships (NYSMAC) on Sunday October 18, 2009. The halls and gym at Lindenhurst High School were buzzing with hundreds of competitors ready to show their martial arts skills in one or more of over 200 divisions offered at this well organized, energy-filled event.

Schools from all over Long Island and the five boroughs came out to support Fescina and Bruno's NYSMAC, who presented beautiful trophies and cash prizes for all Adult Black Belt Grand Champions.

Competitors were excited about the great job the promoters did to assign start times for each division. This prevents hours of waiting for your division.

Adult Grand Champion, Hakim Walker humbly thanked his family and Fescina for hosting the event and said he will be back. Vincent Scarduzio, a national competitor and NYSMAC youth weapons and forms grand champion always leaves the crowd dazzled. Scarduzio showed spectacular technique, powerful kicks and focus to win. Chiara Dituri, a 15-year-old national competitor who trains at Amerikick said, "This is a great event. There are competitors from all over and the rings run fast and smooth". Fescina is an official judge for many NASKA and KRANE rated events. His expertise is obvious as he confidently walks through the crowds toward the gym floor to ensure the rings are all running efficiently. Fescina is a 9th Degree Black Belt and Master Instructor of the "The Kempo White Tiger System" which he created Co-Founder Bruno is a 7th Degree Black Belt with the "The Kempo White Tiger System" and has been involved with the martial arts for over 20 years. Bruno was also eager to please as he answered numerous questions from competitors and spectators.

Name________________________________________ Address______________________________________ City ________________State_______ Zip___________ Age______DOB_______Rank_____________________ School Name__________________________________ Address________________________________________ ___________________________________________ Tel #_________________________________________ Instructor_____________________________________ Pd____________Pd by Check___________M.O.______ Signiture____________________________________ Guardian Signiture________________________ ___ To: WKU 437 Sabol Rd. / Stroudsburg Pa. 18360 570 992-3458 Tasakat@epix.com

By: Scott Bray

th

The 16 Annual Northeast Martial Arts Challenge, promoted by Stephen Lombardi was held on January 31, 2010 at the North Providence High School, North Providence, Rhode Island. This tournament was the first KRANE Pro /PSKL World Rated tournament and was also a KRANE AAAAA tournament.

Being the first tournament of the year there was a excellent turn out of about 300 competitors. Special guest Senior Grandmaster S.George Pesare was present. Grandmaster Pesare is the founder of Kenpo /Kempo Karate in New England After a couple of months off from competing, competitors were anxious to see how their hard work and training would pay off. Team Next Level, Team GKS ,Team Straight Up and many other regional karate teams were present.

Being that the tournament is rated KRANE Pro /PSKL the tournament was run by the PSKL rules. Being theses rules are knew to most competitors and judges, there was a little confusion at times but overall the tournament ran very smoothly. These rules will be used at all Pro rated events, all other KRANE /PSKL rated tournaments will be run by KRANE rules.

These rules can be found on the KRANE and the PSKL websites along with the 2010 schedule.

To quote Mr. Lombardi “As martial artist we all share the desire to win, but let’s remember that everyone competing at this tournament is already a winner!”The talent was very strong of all ages and the fights were very close in points.

The Grand Champions were: Jr.Black Belt Forms and Weapons – Tyrei Brown Adult Black Belt Forms and Weapons –Anthony Willis, Black Belt Fighting – Dennis Molloy,Black Belt Woman’s Fighting –Nicole Pelland.

The 2010 year is going to be full of many regional tournaments.

MASMAL has expanded in to 5 regions with eight tournaments already scheduled for the New England region.

The full schedule and rules can be found at www.masmalonline.com.

KRANE /PSKL has 17 tournaments scheduled for the New England region and a KRANE Pro/PSKL tournament to be held in Puerto Rico in June. The full schedule can be found at www.Krane.org. Make sure you check the rating of the tournament and the rules. There are different rules for the Pro rated tournaments. The rules for the Pro rated tournaments can be found at www.pskl.org.

NASKA will be holding two world tour tournaments in the New England region in 2010,The Ocean State Grand th th Nationals, April 9 and 10 and the New England Open June th th 4 and 5 . There are also many regional rated tournaments.The schedule can be found at www.naska.com Good luck to all competitors in the 2010 season.

A Decade of Dedication was the theme for the Action Martial Arts Hall of Honors 2010, held once again at the world famous Tropicana Casino & Resort in Atlantic City, NJ. The world’s largest gathering of martial arts superstars, film and combat celebrities, and renowned Masters from around the world once again gathered to meet, greet, and share with the thousands who congregate from around the globe.

It was almost a dilemma, this event coined by many as the greatest martial arts event in the world. How to make the 10th Anniversary special? The Action staff put on its thinking caps and went to work, putting together the most Action packed weekend, with class, honor and a lifetime of memories.

The weekend started off Friday in the north tower of the hotel with 6 seminars, and 3 separate certification programs with Soke Michael DePasquale Jr, Guro Julius Meligritto & Kempo International’s own from Sweden Hanshi Jorge Jorgensen. During the time 12-7 PM Action had put out a complimentary coffee area with bagels, danish and muffins for all that showed up to enjoy the day. To our surprise over 500 people showed up to chat, train and just mingle.

As Friday evening rolled around the night life at the Tropicana was starting to heat up. Well admitted by Action’s staff, what took place was not planned. Around 7 PM gathering at the Tango Lounge on the main floor of the Casino, hundreds of guest met and had a few drinks, planning for the rest of the evenings. It was wild looking across the room. There were groups of fans talking and taking photos with their favorite celebrities Joe Lewis, Bill Wallace on one side of the room, Don Wilson and Cynthia Rothrock 20 feet away. Across the room stood Dan Severn, James Lew, Michael Jai White and Chuck Zito. It was great to to meet, greet and have a photo opportunity. About 9:30 p.m. the crowd started to thin out. No, they didn’t go to sleep.

They just moved on to the 20 restaurants and dance club within this world famous casino & resort. There were parties going on all over to the wee hours of the morning. And to think this wasn’t even planned. It was amazing! ndbertsch@yahoo.com It seemed like the evening didn’t end when there it was 7:30 a.m. Saturday morning and martial artists by the dozens entered the seminar & expo area. Walking in I noticed some of the big wigs giving out info packs, such as Century Martial Arts, Asian World, MACHO, Yamazato & Shaolin Brand Products and 40 other interesting tables from MA supplies to TShirt companies. There was also no loss for the media showing up - Martial Arts Today / Black Belt TV, UCW Radio and TV, New England Martial Arts Cable show, MMA Confidential Cable, Martial Force Online, Martial Arts Warrior Online, Budo International USA, TWK Times, and Artie Clear’s Sports Radio Show broad casted live. There were 30 seminars held by some of the world’s best Martial Artists. We are proud to report that over 2,000 Martial Artists showed up to be a part of this record breaking event! Suffice it to say, with the dire economy and troubling times we are facing, the Martial Arts world still managed to come together in support of one another in spite of it all. That says a lot about what we as Martial Artists stand for and also, of the importance and recognition of our event worldwide - with 16 countries in attendance.

Once again, we were honored by some more new faces this year including the Master Jeff Speakman, Grm Oso Tayari Casel, GM Al Dacoscos. As Master Goldberg stated to me, that “He is so appreciative of all the Celebs that show up, but in his eyes everyone at the event is a celebrity in their own right! You can see it on the expo floor to the seminars all the way through the banquet that everyone is on the same level, no egos, no rank, no bull, it’s almost like a class reunion”.

Just the list of all day Free Seminars showed that everyone wants to give back. Where else can you train with such names as, Grm Oso Tayari Casel, Grm Stephen Hayes, Jeff Speakman, Cynthia Rothrock, Bill Wallace, Don Wilson, Joe Lewis, Prof Ronald Duncan, Master Olando Riveria, Dan The Beast Severn, Grm George Alexander, Grm Ken MacKenzie, Christina Bannon Rodriquez, Soke Depasquale Jr., Soke Tom Gettling, Hanshi Jorgen Jorgensen, Shihan Dana Abbott, Grm

Jurg Zeigler, Master Bob MacEwen, Master Danny Lane, Shihan Tito Alan, Shihan Mark Walker, Shaolin Monk Sifu Shangwei Wu, Master David Nemeroff, Master T. Dilallo, Grm Mark Shuey, Guru Julius Meligrito, Grm. Kevein Cullen, Hanshi Jorgen Jorgensen, Guro Greg Pichardo, Sifu Tu Guo Shun. Wow, I never saw so much knowledge in a room and all happy to partake.

3 o’clock rolled around and I felt like the day was over when I reminded myself the best was yet to come, the 10th Anniversary Bash. So I went back to my room to freshen up and get dressed in my best. I came down to the banquet floor around 6pm! The waiting line to enter was about 2 blocks long. But as the reputation of this event hold Action did not disappoint. As I waited, there was a classical Violist playing soft dinner music and as we moved along there as another person entertaining the guests as a mime, dressed as a Samurai warrior. As we moved on to the entrance, there was a group of Action Staff greeting each guest and giving them a small entrance gift. It was class. That’s the only word I could think of as I entered the hall and looked into the largest banquet room in Atlantic City. It was big as a football field with decorative lighting and a 5 piece band playing on stage behind the Celebrity seating stage.

After a few cocktails, I moved to my seat with a few friends.

The lights were dimmed all the way down and a small spotlight hit the middle of the stage where Sifu Bam Johnson was standing. As the light opened on him, he was joined by his Lion Dance Team, which displayed fantastic aerial and martial arts stunts. What a great way to open the night. Like clockwork the event opened with the MC Soke Mike Depasquale, introducing Comedian Joe Piscopo, who did the opening intro of the President and Publisher Master Alan Goldberg. After a small thank you speech, a seamless array of event proceeded - the Marine Color Guard with Sifu Romelletti singing the National Anthem and the opening prayer by Dr. M. Willett.

This year, Action announced a special set of Awards called the Apex Award, which is given to a pioneer that brings an art from the Orient and proceeds to take hold in the Martial Arts World in a big way. This year there were 2 given and as I may say to my surprise it was well deserved. First was DoJuNim Ji Han Jae with the expansion of Hapkido and Shihan Richard Bowe with Aikido. As dinner was being served groups of awards were being given out, with photos of all new inductees to be printed in the Action magazine.

During a break the band played and people were dancing and enjoying themselves with improv photo times. As everyone was asked to get to their seats, the surprise of the night had come as Comedian Joe Piscopo sang his special rendition of New York-New York for the whole room. It was great, funny, and just a class act to be added to a class event. This whole song can now be seen on you-tube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D7eWAqo_MvU).

Finishing the Awards and dessert was a little depressing knowing the night was soon coming to a end. 10:30 p.m. rolled around and everything was finished. But to all our surprise the band played on for another 90 minutes and the cameras flashed all the way thru the night.

Proud to say this year’s event this landmark banquet was another outstanding success, with a full house of over 1200 people. Thanks again to all who attended and who have continuously given us their support. This weekend I heard so many coined names for this event, like Micheal Depasquale’s “The Greatest Martial Arts Event on Earth”, Joe Lewis mentioning “The Gathering of Champions”, and so many still calling it the Academy Awards of Martial Arts.

I look forward to our 11th year Hall of Honors banquet in 2011 of which plans is already underway. Master Goldberg is planning to expand the Party with UCW Radio as a Sponsor to bring you a Friday night Free cocktail party I hope to see you all there to celebrate this special milestone event. Until then, health and happiness to all! Have a wonderful 2010! See you all next year! Roving Reporter Shihan John Gurrieri

10th Action Martial Arts Magazine Hall Of Honors 2010 Thank You To All Sifu’s, Sensei’s, Master’s, Grandmaster’s, Shihan’s and Professors Special Board Of Advisors Award: Gary Wasniewski, David Toma, Gary Alexander, Mike DePasquale Jr., Hank Garrett, Jason Lau, Joe Lewis, Orlando Rivera, Don and Christine Rodriguez, Jonathan Stewart, Joe Venerie, Bill Wallace, Mike Willett, Don Wilson, Chuck Zito, Cynthia Rothrock, Nikolai Smirnov, John Pellegrini, Jeff Smith, Jeff Speakman , Stephen Hayes, Joe Piscopo , Dan Severn , James Lew

The Apex Award : Richard Bowe , Ji Han Jae Golden Pioneer: Al Dacascos / Silver Pioneer: Oso Tayari Casel Platinum Lifetime Achievement: Ronald Frank Balas Sri Dinesh Mitra Edward Verycken Golden Lifetime Achievement:John Dinkins Richard Edward Thomas Gettling David Grosscup Jack Shamburger Papasan Canty Silver Lifetime Achievement: Donald N. Brown Joe De La Cruz Luis Morales Doug Pierre Gary S. Torres Richard Edwards Jr. Diamond Lifetime Achievement: Robert Baultwright Joe Robaina Martial Arts Organization Of The Year: Julius Meligrito’s PMAA Lifetime Dedication To The Martial Arts: Inheritor Of The Year: Edward Verycken USA GoJu Grand Masters of the Year : Jorgen Jorgensen Clifford Hyde-Gomes Alexey Levtsky Alexander Soloviev . Outstanding Contribution To The Martial Arts as a Grand Master Jim Brassard Lawrence "TIGER” Chang Bobby Whitaker Lee Rick Lenchus Kenneth P. Mackenzie Vincent Marchetti Furman Marshall Runako Mashama Dean Pyles Joseph Williams Hector Rodriguez Jurg Ziegler Dan Mc Eaddy Robert Ott John L. Godwin Scott E. Yates Rick Greene Errol Lyn Orlando Rodriquez Peter Mills Gary Elferis Greg Ferry Woman Of The Year: Linda Shields Inheritor Award Edward Verycken . Exemplary Dedication To The Martial Arts- Diamond Life : Richard Petronelli Hugh McHugh Exemplary Dedication To The Martial Arts- Platinum Life : Winston Massey William Slader Exemplary Dedication To The Martial Arts Golden Life : Abdul Aziz David Cantrell Harvey Fierman Mike Leclair Raymond Herman Mark Fabi Chris Yi Fred Butler Steve Beal Fred Sesler George Spiros Jullie Tittl Craig Adams Arnold Allan Reggie Cochran Remillio Oliviere Marcus Lee Carlos Gomez Roger Clark Joe Collins Sr. Thomas Felder Ralph Parris David Rubenberg George Spiros Mike Bertucci Exemplary Dedication To The Martial Arts Silver : Robby Buckland Jeff Driscoll Aaron Berrios David Rodrigues Charles Heimlich Kevin Ludic Bill Taylor William Best George Klinedinst John Ennis Derek Lovell sr. Sumaila Sule Kenya Dudley Linnell Sutton Bill Duff Robert Turley Patrick Mattews Exemplary Dedication To The Martial Arts Bronz : Andre Brown Carlos Dela Cruz Scott Goetz Outstanding Contributions In The Martial Arts: Thomas Smith Tarik Hussein Berhane S Mashama Joe Cohen Mark Frieder Michael Cavallaro Rita Hubbard Nancy Robinson John DeBellotte Scott Barnable Jeff Blackman Tim Richter Anthony Aguihon David Cavazos Darmara Carter Jason Swanson Monty Hendrix Odilon De Los Santos Cato Gjukstad Henry Schmidt III Kevin Suggs William Jernon Mike Andrus Percy Spitfire Brown Lynda Thorton Daniel Medina John Kovacs Jimmie Mickens John Guerrero Outstanding Acheivements In The Martial Arts: Joe Gregory Carl Beams Tom Curry Raymond Bosques David Candelaria Larry Hillderbrand Timothy Hartman Randall Lucas Rich Williams Elba Melendez David Nemeroff John LiButti Henry Waller Jason Sterling Jerry Winnett Anthony Perenchio Dan McCall Gregory Goepfert Shawn Withers Tina Roddy Tom Zarichansky Antionette Chavez Ajit K Amesur Outstanding Dedication To The Martial Arts: Herman Horn Hank Mintrez Debbie Russell Mike Jackson Rik Kellerman Mark Masser Tina Blackmaan ODelia Waltz Wesner Pierre Rick Avery Bob Wood John Terranova Frankie Parker Orlando Rodriguez Tony Endoz David D Antonio Ed Gary Joel Dvorin Jay Brown II William Rivera Kevin Robinson Allen Rubin Willie Bellamy Roderick Jones EtonKwok Stefan Faler Nelso Class Marcos Johnson Greory BorianDerick Nicholas Eric Sontang Micky Thorbeck James Donnelly Anthony Tyrone Robert Vegalito Emilio G. Moreno Cintya Rodrgues Morty Nuwar Carl Wilson Sr.Jimmy Stewart Joe Whelan William Brady Excellence In Teaching Martial Arts:.

Perry Zmugg Daniel Allebach Sr Andrew Lesser John Skokowski Conrad Hartle Melissa Mertz Trevor George Leon Simmons Andre Valdez Richard Walker Chuck Crone Paul Micci Penny Guy Phil Spears Conrad Hartle Justin Nunno Tom Curry Jr Jose Deleon Ron Oringer Joe Diaco Jeff Everetts Michael Faraday Bill LaVoice John Petrone Ryan McDermott Leslie Brown Instructor of The Year Matsumura Shorin Ryu : Polly Melick Master of The Year Matsumura Shorin Ryu : Gary Melick Martial Arts Writer of the Year :Francine Maravantano Supplier of the year : Betty Serritella EZ Stich

European Martial Arts Film of the year : Andy Kunz

Returning Ambassadors 2000-2009 Patrick Bamburak Vincent Sinclair Tony Voss Sandra Roberts Gamel C. Spenser Odie Molina David Gomez Ronnie Gonzales James Jackson Colton Matthew Louis Oscar Daniel Lane Mark Walker Diane Meckwood Prislupsky Les Kiersnowski Gregorey P. Blake James W. Allen Joe Answine Bill McGee Granger John & Laura Beluscha John J. Cox Anika Khan Amer A. Khan Jack Hogan Steven TimperleyAshley M. Lima Calvin Chae Ross Richard Ross Kimberlee Ryuth Ross Thomas Hamilton Robert Cheezic Adam Gorski Joseph Bennett Ken Spellman Tony Mello Todd Deutsch Michael Sudol Chris Lohwasser Frank Bonanno Ross Greenberg Joseph Burns Rico Guy Joe Saladino Tselestin Tsykhtsinski Thomas L. Festa Mark K. Bayne Joe Hall Joseph Cooper Dayne Waltz Al Smith Carl Pluchino Mark Caravaglio Louis T. Markstrom James Robinson Wesley Drumgold Earnestine Russell Rich silver Art Beins Tony Abel George Bierman Bakhtiyor Rozikor The Tasatano Family Dana Abbott Tony Calvino George Alexander Kevin Cullen Maurice Elmalem Frank Huff Mark Shuey Sr.Daniel Verkerke Dennis Davis Bernard Degraffenreid Gary Pointer Darby Ware Gina Tatum Greg Pichardo Richard Reiheimer Buddy Van Boven John Crudup Daryl Jackson Jr. Tony Jackson Riley Hawkins Robert Bull Sr. Roosevelt Garland Darryl Jones Pernell Jones Phil Defina Marvin Carmona Terrance Evins Tommy Lee Ken Hines Darlene Defour Rick Davis William Blake Craig Hall Alex Wilkie Jesus Bonilla Clivon Doss Larry Houck Anthony Notaro Joe Riccobono Robert Scott Mounir Ghrawi Marty Manuel Verrone Romeoletti Ladiva Davis M. Meade Linda Reim Khemfoia Padu Kallin Kiganiis Klu Padu Khairanis Padu Anela Alexander Terryl Elder Rhona Shee Chris Newberry Joe Borezak Leon Swain Edgar N Saniel Rubin Santiago Kenton Vanzandt Pierre Rene Troy Bargia Emily Barns Alex Prieto AJ Verel Abdul Abdurrahman Mahaliel Bethea Paka Khan Carlos Montalvo Kevin Porter Mary Molina Eugene Montaque Jr. Robert Dickerson Dave Gentry Mike Caster Milton Quelis Thomas DiLallo Robert Braff Reginaldo Brown Robert Hawkins Ivan Mendez Fred Batista Rich Gamboa Black Hawk San Carlos Sammy Vergara Randy Choy Nathaniel Klutz Jr. Michael Sirota Sam White Leslie Grady Werner Leuschner Dave Gentry Sthanou Mitra Jim Miller A Joe Poole Robby Robinson Jerry Burgos Melissa Aznar M

Master John Burdyck “Who ALWAYS tells it like it is!”

MMA PASSES IN BALTIMORE The first MMA event ever held in Baltimore was promoted by Jon Rallo on Saturday October 24th 2009 at the First Mariner Arena.

The event was called SHOGUN FIGHTS and it was a tremendous success. Over 4,000 people packed the First Mariner Arena in Baltimore and the fights were excellent. I was pleasantly surprised at how organized this event was because this was the first event ever promoted by Jon Rallo. Both he and his school, Ground Control, worked extremely hard to make this a successful event. All of the fights were matched very well. I was also excited by the fact that Mr. Rallo was able to secure several sponsers for the event, which is always extremely important when you’re promoting an event for the promoter not to assume the entire financial risk. All of the media at the event, including myself, was given first class treatment by the staff of the First Mariner Arena. A lot of credit has to go out to Jon for taking over a year and a half to implement all the rules for MMA events in Baltimore and have it passed through the legislature. Mr. Rallo is truly an unselfish Martial Artist. He supported both of my events “THE MARYLAND OPEN” & “THE BATTLE OF BALTIMORE” for 27 years before even having his first event. The official results are as follows: Jim Hettes defeated Steven Baker , Bret Thomas defeated Rick Desper, Jacob Kirwan defeated Brad Pole , Ryan Mackin defeated Joe Kelso , Joey Kirwan defeated Dan Root, Steve Deangelis defeated Lazar Stojadinovic, Mike Pascjall defeated Scottie Ayers, Carey Vanier defeated Paul Mann , Dave Daniecki defeated Wade Drake , Joe Stripling defeated Cody Donovan , Jay McLean defeated Binky Jones SHOGUN FIGHTS II is slated for March 27th, 2010 and I am sure this will be a successful event as well. A special shout-out goes to Mark Finley of TEAM GROUND CONTROL for his excellent judging and coordinating of the Brazilian JuJitsu part of the BATTLE OF BALTIMORE. I would like to thank everyone who has encouraged me to promote an MMA event in Baltimore. Everyone wants to know when this event will be held and I am working extremely hard on gathering all the information I need to make my first event successful. I will not do so until I have the full confidence knowing it will be a success. When I secure a date, place and time for the event, it will be posted on my

website (www.burdyck.com) so you may follow the website not only for my upcoming events but along with many others that are coming up in the United States. If any of you promoters would like for me to list your upcoming event, I would be more than happy to do that on my website. My contact information is at the bottom of this article OR you can also find it on my website. Everyone keeps asking me, when am I going to promote my first MMA event. The answer is I am gathering all the information that I need to make sure that when I do promote my first event it will be a huge success. I want this event to be even more successful than the first Battle of Baltimore in sport karate that I promoted over 26 years ago. The next event in Baltimore was held on Saturday November 21 at Michael’s 8th Avenue in Glen Burnie, the event was promoted by Scot Wagner, this event was also a huge success. Mr. Wagner has promoted many years of successful boxing shows, and you can tell by the quality and excellent coordination of his first MMA event. The crowd was large and enthusiastic, I think between John and Scot that MMA promotions in Maryland are in great hands. I look forward to one day joining there team and hoping to move MMA in Maryland to an even higher level.

Tim Williams, 23 years old from Millville, New Jersey is one of mixed martial arts up and coming fighters. He’s a professional Mixed Martial Arts fighter and a nationally ranked submission grappler. Tim is managed by Nick Papandrew who is from Delaware and Nick is doing a wonderful job not only managing Tim but also managing other fighters as well. Tim was diagnosed with a deadly brain aneurysm and had to be operated on immediately by Dr.Rosenwasser at Jefferson Hospital for Neuroscience in Philadelphia. By the grace of God, Tim made a miraculous recovery from the operation. On January 23rd 2010, almost 1 year to the day after the discovery of aneurysm, Tim defeated Arial Sepulveda via triangle choke in Locked in the Cage 2 to bring his professional record to 2-0. He’ll be taking on Joey Kirwan on March 27th in Shogun Fights 2 at the 1st Mariner Arena in Baltimore, Maryland. Well Tim, with a victory like that outside of the ring there is nothing inside the ring that you cannot conquer. I would like to wish you good luck in your MMA career.

If you have news or 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!

By: Joe Lewis

I always found the exchange of ideas and concepts helped me grow as a Martial Artist. Before I was a World Champion I would get together with all of the top fighters and pick up ideas as well as improve and perfect my techniques on “real world proponents”. This is how I grew, in a community of fighters. In the past you needed to be “in the fold” to get this inside knowledge but today with the development of the internet and instantaneous communications you can have it on demand.

Welcome to a new and ongoing avenue to gain information from me, I am a former World Karate/Kickbox Champion, my name is Joe Lewis. I have developed a definitive and comprehensive study into how to magnify the inner will and self-confidence of today’s martial artist.

My lesson plans are designed to keep you ahead of the curve--- a balanced blend between the ideas of the traditional “old school” masters and the cutting-edge technologies of today’s top martial art trainers. Let me know how you like this first of an ongoing “Tips from the Top” series For study: Click on this fight between Ray Mercer Vs Remy Bonjasky. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EXkcYul1LRo This short clip illustrates a classic matchup between two world class fighters---both champions in their day. One is a boxer and the other a full contact karate/kick boxer. The disciplines of each are not as important as are the attributes (mental skills) that each exercises or fails to exercise.

TACTICAL LESSON 101: (1) Do not stand straight in front of a good kicker and allow him to get set at his chosen range.

(2) Against a good lead-off kicker---you MUST fire first or move side to side, not in and out. A good kicker controls the distance in a vertical plane---do not play an in and out game with him. You must know how to move up and down (dipping, crouching, ducking) or side to side (angulations). Against a good kicker, you need to get inside the pocket, step off on an angle (turning him) and then hit him.

a quick unexpected technique or shoots, you always drop with a quick half step back with your rear foot---then you roll defensively (inside or outside) OR you stabilize your opponent using either hand. You just do not freeze and get hit. If you do---this means you are not focused.

(6) Never enter the ring not being properly focused. Watch Mercer as Bonjasky triggers the kick. The actions or non actions of one’s physical performance are an exact reflection of the actions or non actions of ones mind.

Mercer’s reaction is almost non existent.

This means he was thinking (conceptualizing) instead of observing his opponent.

Mercer appears as if he is almost too focused on preserving the dignity of his stance (typical trait of classical practitioners) than he is on not getting hit. He was not into that proper level of attention called pre-consciousness.

This state of mind using precision mental skills is almost a lost art. Of the five levels of attention, this level allows the fighter to appropriately use reflex timing---that which enables one to react instantly without any thought. The Joe Lewis Fighting Systems offers drills that can easily be taught to develop this mental faculty.

P.S. One MUST learn to protect the lower chin and neck area with the rear hand at all times. Study my defensive rhythm set drills on my private lesson series on www.JoeLewisFightingSystems.com web site. All JLFS members can download each new monthly lesson offered on our web site to enrich this type of knowledge and easily integrate this material into their own system or teaching method.

“I have learned that a man has the right to look down on somebody, only when he is helping him to get up.”

Gabriel Garcia Marquez

Joe Lewis Former World Karate/Kickbox Champion United States Marine Corps (Member of 1st U.S. combat unit in Viet Nam8th Marine Brigade)

(3) Note that the taller kickboxer, Bonjasky, denies Mercer access to the pocket. Remy knows that Ray is not going to kick because he is wearing boxing shoes (no kicks allowed with laces). Never allow your opponent to detect what you are going to do---or NOT do.

(4) The ultimate key to fighting is to control your opponent.

If you allow or let your opponent exercise his will---fire or shoot---then HE is in control. When you force or make him fire or shoot, then YOU are in control. Study the clip---Mercer lets him kick.

(5) Old saying: When in doubt, stick and move…..or, step back quickly and observe. Whenever an opponent fires

www.JoeLewisFightingSystems

By Sifu Abdulmuhsiy Abdurrahman

"FRIENDSHIP THROUGH MARTIAL ARTS" Washington, D.C. The reknowned Gaylord National Resort Hotel located here in the nation's capital, recently saw Chinese Martial Artists from multiple ethnic backgrounds, age groups, and chinese martial arts disciplines gather in this venue for three funfilled days of seminars and heated competition!

This ICMAC, International Chinese Martial Arts Championship, tournament was headed and orchestrated by longtime chinese martial arts promoter and instructor Sifu Nick Scrima, along with the assistance of an army of fellow instructors, loyal students, and volunteers from all over the nation.

This was just one of several Chinese Martial Arts Championships given throughout the U.S. and surrounding Islands, in order to bring together ALL competitors under the banner of "FRIENDSHIP THROUGH MARTIAL ARTS", in an attempt to dismantle and disarm the politics and the "Me, Myself, and I" mindset, that has been a plague to the unity, growth, and development of humanity since our beginning!!! After witnessing all of the activities from day one and until completion of all the events, this columnist must say "mission accomplised and a job well done". Throughout all of the proceedings, not one time did this columnist hear anything, even remotely, referring to any group, federation, organization, or anything of the kind, just plain, down to earth, fellowship and fun!!

Let this event serve as a testimony of the 1,200 competitors, spectators, and martial arts enthusiasts that had gathered, that we can do it, and it can be done!!! In closing please allow this columnist to say that a portion of the proceeds went to AARC, which stands for the Ameican Association for Cancer Research, and future ICMAC activities can be reached on their website www.kungfuchampionship.com, or telephone them directly at (727)734-8222.

MORE THAN KICKING AND PUNCHING Wash., D.C.

For the members of the HUNG TAO CHOY MEI kung fu school, the membership's activities go far beyond the usual kicking, punching, forms, etc. etc. as many martial arts

schools, they are quite civic minded as well. Over the years and coming from behind the school's doors, they have interacted extremely well with Neighborhood Associations, Civic groups, District and other governmental officials and associations. Additionally, they annually acknowledge the contributions to society by an individual or a group. This year they recognized, under the very capable leadership ofthe school's chief instructor Sifu Abdurrahman Muhammad, Judith Jamison of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, at the "Here I Stand" Award Gala held at theLincoln Theater here in the nation's Capital.

Other performers came out as well on this auspicious well attended event. The Dance Institute of Washington, and the Furia Flamenca and Dance Asia Alliance dance groups came out as well to show their support along with several governmental officials, whom presented the Hung Tao Choy Mei kung fu school with a citation and proclamation of appreciation and support.

Hung Tao Choy Mei also has an out of school time program that's been a huge success after starting several years ago. They train over 50 children during the course of the summer months providing free tuition, uniforms, breakfast, lunch, and funfilled field trips to say the least.

One the main highlights of the program's success came with their competition tour to Mainland China and Hong Kong, needless to say the indelible events shall be etched in the minds of the participants for many years to come, especially after receiving many awards and Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medals of the youth in their many competitive divisions. In closing, let us recognized the "Out of school leadership institute" for leading by example, in picking up trash and debris from in front of historic sites in the Greater U Street Logan Circle neighborhoods. Because of their outward display of civic pride, many of the business owners and residents congratulate them on their hard work and accomplishments, as the proudly adorn and attire their Hung Tao Choy Mei uniform shirts!! We here at action, also congratulates them and encourages them to keep up on doing such an OUTSTANDING JOB!!!

TAIJIQUAN; THE GRAND ULTIMATE FIST By: Shifu John Green Taijiquan (more commonly spelled Tai Chi Chuan) is well established in the Western world for its affects on health and wellness. The art has well known benefits including normalizing blood pressure, regulating digestion, deepening respiration, improving balance, strengthening the bones, and the list goes on and on. The art of Taijiquan is also recognized for its meditative aspects such as centering the mind, improving focus,and calming the spirit. What is not to well known is that Taijiquan is also a distinguished Chinese martial art, or Kuoshu in chinese. In fact, it is part of a system of very profound combat arts with cousins such as Baquazhan (8 Diagram Palm) and Xingyiquan (Form intention Boxing).

The phrase "Tai chi chuan" literaly in chinese stands for "Grand Ultimate Fist".

Westerners know Taijiquan for its slow-moving, rhythmic form. The form provides an introduction to the principles of the art for proper footwork, upper-lower body coordination, rooting, and full body awareness. It is also a wonderful meditative practice that can be continued through sickness, injury, and the aging process. Many people would be surprised to know, however, that Taijiquan includes very self-defense oriented training regimens, such as weapons training, power training, chin-na (joint locking) and sparring at intermediate and advance levels. The Taiji Form is just the begining of a complete martial arts program designed to teach the practitioner how to neutralize bigger, stronger, and sometimes faster force, by merely yielding and redirecting it. The art is alson known for its ability to deliver explosive strikes (Fa-jing) at a very short range with various paarts of the body (e.g. palm, elbow, and shoulder). Shifu John Green is a student of Grm. Huang,Chien-Liang, whom are both past inductees of "ACTION'S" Hall Of Honor. They are located in Owings Mills, Md. and runs the U.S. Kuoshu Academy.

In closing, please allow this columnist to say in addition to Shifu Green's article is that from my twenty eight years of studying traditional Yang style Tai Chi Chuan, and still learning, Tai Chi Chuan is the ONLY exercise known to mankind that can be done by anyone, regardless of age, sex, physical limitations, etc. etc., without using energy, but receiving it.

By: Master Alan D’Allessandro

The Samurai is known in history as one of the most masterful and skillful martial artists ever.

Of course, there are those who would agree with this statement and those who would disagree, but based on what I have read and what I have learned of the Samurai, I believe this to be true. As history tells us, the Samurai walked with dignity and pride every single day of their lives. Aside from the day to day family obligations of the Samurai, the relentless training with the sword to the art of perfection was their single and most prominent purpose.

For that matter, everything the Samurai was involved with was done with the goals of perfection in mind.

They settled for nothing less.

The Japanese Sword is the most interesting of all martial arts weapons, and like the Samurai, was made with perfection in mind.

The single edged steel sword is both lethal meaning that one motion could kill, and spiritual meaning that the one motion was flawlessly executed.

While in today’s world, the Samurai does not exist other then in the historical sense, many of us train with the sword for spiritual gains and personal satisfaction. Today’s practitioner should strive to understand the lethal aspects of the sword without using it as a weapon of destruction, and also to be appreciated as a weapon of pride and accomplishment.

The American Open Sword System was created by Grand Master Don Rodrigues and Master Alan D’Allessandro to present a curriculum based system of the sword. For the first time ever, the American Open Sword System has curriculum from White Belt to Black Belt to learn all aspects of the sword in a belt ranking system. In creating a belt ranking system with the sword, it also creates the short term goals leading to the long term goal which is being a proficient swordsman / Black Belt in the American Open Sword System.

Grand Master Don Rodrigues, a student for over 32 years of the late great 10th Degree Grand Master Nick Cerio has spent a number of those years training with the sword under Professor Cerio’s direction. As of now, GM Rodrigues has now been studying and teaching the martial arts for over 42 years and has accrued a mile long list of accomplishments and credentials. GM Rodrigues is the President and CoOwner of the Don Rodrigues Karate Academy, Ltd located in Warwick, RI. He is also the Master Instructor and Founder of Oki-Ryu Kenpo, Co-Founder of the American Open Sword System, the Vice-President of KRANE Ratings, Promoter of the Ocean State Grand Nationals Karate Championships, on the Executive Board of Directors for WAKO-USA, President Board of Directors of American Kenpo International, Member of the NASKA Board of Directors, and Head Coach of the World Renown Team Paul Mitchell. Hall of Fame Inductions include Black Belt Magazine, Inside Kung Fu Magazine, BUDO International Magazine, National Black Belt League, Action Martial Arts Magazine, World Martial Arts Federation, Educational Funding Company, KRANE Ratings, Northern Rhode Island Karate Championships, Professional Karate League, NASKA, and Central New England Karate Championships.

Master Alan D’Allessandro who had the privilege of studying as a private student of Professor Cerio during his final three years also worked some months with the sword. After the untimely passing of Professor Cerio, Master D’Allessandro became a private student of GM Rodrigues and for much of the past ten years they have spent several of them developing the AOSS and with tremendous success.

Master D’Allessandro has been training and teaching the martial arts for 25 years and he too has compiled a substantial list of credentials and accomplishments.

He is the VicePresident and Co-Owner of New England Karate Academy, Inc. with locations is Worcester, Shrewsbury, and Auburn, MA. He is also the Master Instructor and Founder of Ken-Ryu Kenpo, Co-Founder of the American Open Sword System, Massachusetts Director of WAKO-USA, Promoter of the Central New England Karate Championships, Published Author of 2 paperback books, and Master Instructor of Aero Core Fitness – Aerobic Kickboxing and Core Training. Hall of Fame Inductions include World Karate Union, Action Martial Arts Magazine, International Black Belt, BUDO International Magazine, World Martial Arts Federation, Ocean State Grand National Karate Championships, Ego Sports, and KA-TV. was officially founded in April of 2008 and has since been trademarked.

GM Rodrigues and Master D’Allessandro have assembled the AOSS Black Belt Certification Course,

 whereas instructors and school owners are taught the system over a period of 1-year. During that period, the system is divided into 6 sessions taught approximately 8 weeks apart.

This allows the student to learn a small amount of material at a time and giving them 2 months to work on the material.

This formula of learning has proven to be very successful as we have found that the students have done just what was expected of them, to become very proficient with the material taught in the previous session. This is just our way of setting short term and very attainable goals for the practitioner.

At the completion of the final or 6th session, a black belt test is scheduled about 2 months in advance allowing the practitioner to review and train all required material to prepare for the test.

To start off your training, practitioners are taught a most important rule in that when working with the sword that you are essentially using a 2-3 foot razor blade and the student must have absolute respect for him or herself and the people around them while training. In the AOSS, the students use a bokken or wooden sword at first before they graduate to a “live” bladed sword. The bokken work is approached exactly as if it were a live blade which creates the proper mindset for the practitioner so that they will treat it with the same respect as a live bladed sword. Once the basics are taught and understood, the practitioner will learn in depth “the draw” or “left horizontal cut”. This first cut would be comparable to that of your western day “quick draw” with a six shooter in that the one who would execute that first cut swiftly and accurately would win the battle. We believe in the AOSS that this first cut is the most important and should be reviewed each and every time the student trains.

The AOSS ranking curriculum comes complete with DVD’s and hard copy manuals for each belt rank, which are White, Yellow, Orange, Purple, Blue, Green Brown, Black, and ultimately degrees of Black Belt. The belt ranking curriculum is broken down into 4 parts in which 4 stripes are earned for each rank, which makes it easy for the practitioner to train and learn the system correctly and at the privacy of their own school or home. An instructor’s manual is also provided to those graduating to first degree black belt breaking the system down as prior mentioned.

The AOSS is comprised of numbered striking or offensive combinations where the student learns attacking maneuvers, blocking or defensive combinations to counter or defend the attack, complete combinations and extensions of the combinations which actually portray short sword fights. This allows the practitioner to learn and understand every movement necessary to become an accomplished swordsman. Although we are not the historical Samurai, our training in the AOSS is one of constant repetitiveness like that of the Samurai.

The AOSS curriculum also includes 10 Short Sword Forms, 10 Long Sword Forms, and a Traditional Styled Katana Form required for white belt to first degree black belt. As like in all martial arts styles, these forms teach directional changes and the use of proper footwork while executing maneuvers with the sword, which is essential for one to become a crafted swordsman.

Additional required material includes the following:  Reaction drills are used so that the practitioner can learn to read the movements of his/her training partner. This is a very important part of 

the AOSS training regimen. A swordsman must be able to adapt to the reactions of another.



Footwork drills are necessary and teach the practitioner how to move appropriately, and with a natural flow.

Free form drills allow the practitioner to become one with the sword. During these drills, guidelines are given to the student but they are allowed to do whatever comes to mind.

Here they will learn to be independent.  Traditional style katana forms are taught to keep the traditions of the Samurai. These forms allow us to preserve the integrity of history.

Grand Master Don Rodrigues and Master Alan D’Allessandro want to stress the fact that the American Open Sword System and the material within it is how we train with the sword.

This is our system; methods, terminology, and ranking system that works for us and those that wish to learn it. We have the utmost respect for each and every style of Japanese Swordsmanship.

As with the hundreds of martial arts styles that exist, each practitioner finds what works best for them and their needs and trains according. The American Open Sword System is our way.

For more information on the American Open Sword System, please contact GM Don Rodrigues at 401.737-2809 or email: DRKA111@aol.com or Master Alan D’Allessandro at 508.331.4772 or email: Alandall@aol.com

By Jon Hanemann and Gail Zikri

Sensei John LiButti began his Martial Arts Training in 1980 with an Okinawa style called Naha Te Kempo, hard “Chung Fa” and soft “Pakua” a brother to Japanese Goju.

His training was intense, Makiwara conditioning, Sanchin Kata, arm pounding, shin blocks, full contact Kumita and the soft side off blending with the movements.

In 1989 John had a devastating motorcycle accident and was hit in the right leg at one hundred miles per hour. He was in a push up position right before crashing into the wall and he was able to push off the bike. The bike hit the wall and exploded.

John hit the sidewalk headfirst and did a perfect front roll that saved his life. He owes his life to Martial Arts!

At the time of the accident John was a yellow belt and thought his life and Karate training were over but John says, “that’s when my Martial Arts training truly began”.

One of the biggest inspirations and most influential persons in John’s life is Grand Master Ted Vollrath who is a double amputee and founder of Martial Arts for the Handicapable “MAH”. Grand Master Vollrath said to John “Handicapable is an obstacle to get around, we are not Handicap. The lost of a limb is not the end of a life but a beginning of a new one”.

O’ Sensei was the first person to earn a black belt in Karate while training out of a wheelchair. Grand Master Ted Vollrath died on November 18, 2001. He is missed but his teachings live on. John says “ I am paying it forward, it is my duty and it is with great honor to carry Mr.Vollrath’s message of hope and strength to others”.

John received his black belt July 12, 1991 and rd currently holds the rank of Sandan 3 degree in Goju Ryu st and Shodan 1 degree in Iaido, from the United States Kendo Federation.

Sensei’s true gift is in the teaching of Bujin “Warrior Spirit” that there are no limitations ,karate is all about adopting to the situation, situation dictating the rule. God blessed John

with his left leg and right arm hence focusing from the center giving him perfect balance. He shows this in Bujin No Kata, which is performed on one leg and has a little bit of everything in it, including flying knees, fancy ground work, and finishing off with Tencho movements and breathing.

This Kata has won John many Karate Tournaments in the regular division. Sensei LiButti creates his own style of fighting in order to adapt to his specific needs to proficiently utilize the attacker. Iaido, the drawing, cutting, and replacing of the sword back to the Saya, is an art form that is done completely with two hands but amazingly, Mr. LiButti has mastered it with one. When one watches John perform Noto - “replacing the sword” with out looking or without the use of his other hand to guide him, one can help but see his unique skill set, discipline, and dedication to the Martial Arts.

Sensei LiButti’s passion is working with kids. He teaches them that anything is possible if you put your mind and heart to it. After meeting him, kids no longer say “ I can’t do that” and instead, focus on the task or goal at hand with a renewed outlook.

John truly inspires all that come into contact with him and also those that witness him from a far. When your life is taken and then miraculously given back, sitting on the couch is not an option. There are no limitations in life; the only limitations are the ones we create in our mind”. John LiButti, Sensei. ironlegwarrior.blogspot.com

Hall of Honors & Spirit Awards Induction Ballot 2011 1. Platinum Pioneer / 50 Year in the Arts 2 .Golden Pioneer / 45 Year in the Arts 3. Silver Pioneer / 40 Year in the Arts 4. Platinum Life time Achievements / 50 Yr 5.Golden Life time Achievements / 45 Years 6. Silver Life time Achievements / 40 Years 7. Diamond Life time Achievements / 35 Yr 8 School of The Year * .

9. Family of The Year 10. Legend Award * 11. Humanitarian Award* 12. Lifetime Dedication to the martial arts 13. Grand Master of the Year * 14 Outstanding Contribution to The Martial As A Arts Grand Master 15 Grand Master of The Year (Style) * 16. Man or Women of The Year *

17. Special Award ( BC) 18 . Inheritor Award 19 Exemplary Contribution to the M.A. 50 yr Diamond 20 Exemplary Cont to The M A 45 years Platin.

21 Exemplary Cont & Dedication to the M.A. 35 - yr Gold 22 Exemplary Cont.to the M.A. 25 Years Silver 23 Exemplary Cont. to the M.A. 20 Yrs. Bronze 24. Exemplary Cont. o the M.A. 15 Years.

25. Outstanding Contributions In The M.A. 26. Outstanding Achievements In The M.A. 27. Outstanding Dedication to the Martial Arts 28. Special Selection Award 29 Excellence In Teaching M.A. 30. Excellence In Promoting Tournaments 31. Master of The Year. * 32 Contribution In Publishing (Online or Off Line) 33. Competitors of the year M/F

#34) Past 2001- 2010 Past Inductees Only , Special Award Goodwill Ambassador to the Martial Arts 2011 Exemplary Contributions Inductees Must have 3 years In as #34 to be submitted for any NEW awards

SPECIAL: Any Instructor Booking a FULLl table will Also Receive a 42 inch Display Quality Sword ( A $100 Value FREE ) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Please Note We try to give awards that equal to your qualifications Not all awards will be processed in the category you have been chosen for PLEASE MAKE COPIES IF NEEDED

NAME _____________________________________________Title _______________Rank_____________ Address_____________________________________________City______________________________ State_________________Zip _______Tel #_________________________Fax___________________ E Mail_________________________________ Award_#_________________________________________ Age _________Years in the Arts ___________ ( Submitted By_________________________________) NAME _____________________________________________Title _______________Rank_____________ Address_____________________________________________City______________________________ State_________________Zip_____________Tel #_________________________Fax___________________ E Mail_________________________________ Award_#_________________________________________ Age _________Years in the Arts ___________ ( Submitted By_________________________________) NAME _____________________________________________Title _______________Rank_____________ Address_____________________________________________City____________________________ State_________________Zip_____________Tel #_________________________Fax___________________ E Mail_________________________________ Award_#_________________________________________ Age _________Years in the Arts ___________ ( Submitted By_________________________________) th

th

Hall of Fame Categories ( 8 ,9 , 10th Dans only ) * Indicate Only One Awarded a Year ( Board Certified ) 1-18

Prestigious Hall of Honors & Spirit Awards 8 th 9th & 10 Th Dans Only 19 -33 1st Dans – 10th Dans ( Not Board .Certified.)

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