Action Martial Arts Magazine #77

Publisher : Master Alan Goldberg Editor : Dr. Michael Willett Editor To The Chinese Martial Arts : Sifu Abdulmuhsiy Abdurrahman Touring Editor : R. J. Bishop , Video Historian : Grm Jim Brassard Asst. Editor : Ron Bongardino , MMA Editor : Master John Burdyck Central USA Rep. : Master Richard Plowden , New England Rep: Scott Bray , Public Relations : Louis Velazquez Web Design & Advertising : Sensei Ross Greenberg Sr. Exec. Director Trade Show & Expo : Grm. Peter Ticali Running Contributing Columnist Martial Arts Talk : Jung Shee James Lacy / Docs Report : Grm’s Robert Braff Nancy Robinson, Grmaster Buddy Van Boven , Susan Friedman Diaz , Kimberly K. White Contributing Goodwill Ambassadors & Advisors

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Soke David Grosscup

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In 1971 my wife [7 Dan] and I put together the Yin Chuan system from the five Black Belts that we had earned [Kenpo, Chin-na, Ju Jitsu, Judo, Mu Du Kwon]. Our goal was to present to the student the most advantages material that would elevate those training with us to perform at their peak levels. As of this date we have trained over 9000 students, but have awarded only 72 to Black Belt, none under the age of 16.

We do not have Black Belts clubs or upgrades, as we believe that by giving our total program to everyone right from day one, regardless of age, gender, social background, learning curve, or financial status, that we promote an atmosphere of equality and fairness for everyone. We promise no one a Black Belt.

However, we promise to raise school grades, teach discipline, self control, equality for everyone, and good old self defense.

I began my training in 1967 because I needed to know how to defend myself, as I was not a very big person and I certainly knew nothing about fighting skills. In high school there was this very large kid named Gordon, and for some reason he did not like me.

His verbal threats were very intimating and I avoided him at all costs. I swore that one day I would get my revenge. About 35 years later I saw this very obese man serving hotdogs at an outdoor political rally. Someone told me that it was Gordon, and that he had had three heart attacks. I felt sorry for him and then realized that through living a healthy lifestyle and developing self confidence and martial arts skills that I already had my unnecessary revenge.

Many years ago I was teaching in a rural area that had a glass phone booth outside the building. One night some vandals broke out all the glass. However, the story that spread throughout the neighborhood was that a karate master [me] was making a phone call one night when three thugs attacked him. He pulled each one into the booth and put their heads through each pane of glass. No matter how many times that I denied that story it just would not go away. I wonder how many Samurai had stories told about them that never occurred?

I speak with pride that the martial arts were the first to break down racial barriers. When I first went to work in the

steel mills I noticed that there were two restrooms side by side. One sign read Whites’ and the other read ‘Colored’. As my popularity grew that I was a ‘karate teacher’ mill employees and their families began taking classes with me.

In time almost the entire labor gang joined up. Now there was no way that I was going to accept that I could teach my students and their families at my school and all of us not have the same right to pee in the same toilet at work. It soon became common knowledge that I would train anyone who wanted to learn, and many time during break we would review our lessons at work, no matter who was watching.

We have taught Yin Chuan in over 45 locations, commercial schools, public and private schools, churches, dance studios, etc, from upscale areas to the poorer sections of town. When a person puts on the white Gi no one knows anything about them except that they are one of our students.

Since we were growing larger in 1984 we incorporated as the Maryland Professional Karate Association, and today 43 years later we have many organizations affiliated with us, and we with them. [Check out ‘Affiliates’ on our web site.]

Right from the start I knew that I wanted to be a martial arts teacher, and to do this I needed a higher education. I spent 6 years at the University of Maryland, took correspondence course from Moody Bible College and the Rosicrucian Order, read tons of books on how the human body works, and bought a library full of martial arts books. I believe that if you are going to be a Black Belt teacher then you better have more knowledge than just martial arts, as my classes have their share of ADHD and hyperactive children, those lacking self confidence, and others from single parent homes. I also believe if that teacher does not live a healthy lifestyle, or who smokes, drinks excessively and curses, and does not keep his/her martial arts knowledge up to date, then that person is the biggest hypocrite on the face of the earth.

Students need role models more today than ever before.

My dojo walls are crammed full of plaques, diplomas and awards from the many halls of fame that I have attended, and yet parents could care less. They just want to know how I can help little Johnny or Suzy to become a better person.

At 72 years of age I am on the dojo floor teaching every class, every time. We require that a parent or grandparent of a child student be present at every class, no exceptions. I want families involved in what we do and listen to what I

say, as I am a teacher to everyone.

physically, mentally, spiritually and socially. We are teaching life skills that are not taught in the public school system. We use words such as, ‘no sir’ and ‘yes ma’am’.

I have met young students in far away places unexpectedly, and I am always glad that I do not lower my values. By being a role model all the time we can set positive examples, even when we think no one is watching. The bottom line is that we

Discipline is part and parcel of what we do. We are creators, painters, and artists. We teach simply because we love to teach. For More Information on Soke Grosscup go to www.mpka.net

as teachers must always put our best foot forward at all times, as we are the ones who may influence someone to travel the road to a rich and rewarding life.

At Yin Chuan/MPKA we want to produce ‘leaders who will lead the leaders, and not followers who will follow the th followers’. We have just completed conducting our 96 th open tournament and have awarded our 9600 trophy that our students have won. Our students need to learn to win graciously and also to lose at times and to use it as a learning experience.

I have written 16 martial arts books [now on CD] which students must read and do book reports on as part of their test requirements. Rank is not easily earned with us as it is difficult to assimilate the vast material that is incorporated in a five style art. We do not advertise for students, except for word of mouth and our web site, and yet our classes are full. Throw in the mix mat work, weapons training, open hand and weapons katas, kumite and street combat, it makes for a very long and difficult test. It is my belief that Black Belt should be for only the chosen few, the elite, and that requires immense martial arts knowledge and fighting skills. Even though in a street confrontation basic skills will only be used we must always remember that we are also teaching an art. We are developing the total individual

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The Chinese Connection By: Sifu Abdulmuhsiy Abdurrahman Baltimore's gift of Tai Chi annual Tournament Towson, Maryland

WORLD TAI CHI AND QI QONG DAY NEW YORK, NEW YORK

Just as they had done last year, Sifus Shawn Smith and Tom Brocht and their "Silk Dragon Chinese Martial Arts" school's membership "family", hosted another very well organized Tai Chi tournament to the delight of 100 competitors and approximately 150 enthusiastic spectators on this beautiful sun shinny spring day. Coming from Ohio, New York, Wash., D.C., New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Maryland, the Towson Place Hotel & Suites played hosting facilty once again to this marvelous event.

Although this originally was an all Tai Chi Tournament in conjunction with and observing "World Tai Chi and Chi Kung Day", two additional internal arts disciplines Xing Yi and Ba Qua were added as well to "cap things off".

Needless to say, this drew additional Internal Arts competitors and reknowned Officials, Referees and Judges.

After a brief welcome from tournament promoters Sifus Shawn Smith and Tom Brocht and the singing of the national anthem, a masters exhibition of the Internal Arts was given to all assembled by Master Mike Barry & Sifu Gary Utterback, Sifu John Green, Sifu Alexander King, Grm. Edgar Livingston, Sifu Sean Marshall, Sifu Allen Washington, and Sifu Bill Greer, with his members of the Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu & Tai Chi. Each performance was followed by thunderous applauds by the excited spectators. After the conclusion of the exhibitions and to further enhance the audience's appreciation for what was about to come, all spectators were invited to the center floor and performed the Tai Chi form, following the official and competitors, with soothing, melodious Tai Chi music in the background for only 2 minutes, brought bright smiles and laughter, not to mention relaxation and a feeling of "belonging" by All whom had gathered!!!! This type of audience inclusiveness is rare at ANY and ALL spectator events, because they simply do just that, spectate!!!!!

The competitors from all ages, children to seniors, gave it they best in all areas, and were awarded beautiful custom designed, quality medals as an appreciation for their participation and support for a job well done. Please keep your eyes and ears open for their follow up tournament next year at maybe the first week of May, you'll be glad you did.

Recently here in the "Big Apple", members of the Mind, Body & Shen Tai Chi association participated in the annual World Tai Chi & Qi Qong day, just as many others were doing on the same day, throughout the world, in an attempt to educate the general public on the many, many health benefits derived from the training and practice of Tai Chi and Qi Qong.

On this beautiful saturday morning instructors of Grm. Derrick Trent's Mind, Body, and Shen Tai Chi association's instructors, Master Craig Adams and Sifu Jorge Perez went to the serene and beautiful Central Park with several of their students to demonstrate the Yang style Tai Chi Chuan in front of large multi ethical audience whom had gathered around in order to witness the smooth and flowing movements with what appeared to be little or no effort at all, just continuous calming and relaxing movements. One particular group had the children to perform the traditional Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan classic 8 step form to the delight of all whom had stopped to take notice.

Partnering up with Grm. Derrick Trent, Master Craig Adams has developed a new branch in the association in order to produce quality Sifus/Instructors to past on this

effective and relaxing art to all of humanity through their fine structured youth department. Contrary to what many people think, children gravitate to Tai Chi just as much as the adults, and many are becoming quite proficient at a very early age. For an example, Sifu Perez had a 9 year old, whom had only been studying with him for a year, lead a group of his peers ranging from 7-19 years of age in the performance of the Yang Style 8 Step Tai Chi Chuan form to the amazement and astonishment of the onlookers! This is quite unique, due to the fact that it's very unusual to see the young leading their elders, as oppose to their elders leading them, especially when the youth are in strict adherence to the foundation and principals of Tai Chi Chuan. Needless to say, ventures such as this, is a strong way that the Yang Style of Tai Chi Chuan is flourishing all over the world by leaps and bounds. Please allow us this opportunity to thank Master Adams for submitting the material for this worthwhile article, and encourage them to continue on their quest to bring peace and harmony to all of the world with the art of Tai Chi Chuan!!!!

The Chinese Connection A GRAND TIME WITH A GRANDMASTER Woodlawn, Maryland Recently here Sifu Gamel Spencer and his wife Simo Leslie Spencer, hosted at their Wing Chun school, Grm. Willliam Cheung to give a seminar on the finite and definitive principals of Wing Chun. Approxiamately 50 participants and 25 spectators virtually had standing room only in order to take part or witness Wing Chun at its best.

"I want to promote traditional Wing Chung" said Grm. Cheung, "by helping the instructors to put forth some of the concepts of which Wing Chung is founded, respect, good morals, and self discipline are only a few".

"Our success rate has been very high over the last 40 years" he said," because doing the right things, the students are a reflection of their instructors"!!

Anyone observing what was taking place could easily see that the participants were actually learning (through application), and having a lot of fun in the process, adults and especially all of the children. Some of the stops Grm. Cheung are expected to take the same message to over the next few months are, Greece, Masadonia, The Ukraine, China, and Singapore, just to name a few. Not to miss out on this opportunity, several local instructors and their students came also in order to capitalize on this grand opportunity. Everyone left with bright warm salutations, handshakes, smiles and big hugs, but more importantly, a sense of accomplishment!!!!

XING YI QUAN: FORM INTENTION FIST

by Shifu John R. Green Xing Yi Quan, also spelled Hsing-I Chuan, is loosely translated as "Form-Mind Fist".

The character Xing Tranlates to mean "form" and refers to the shape or appearance of the technique. The second character Yi is translated to mean "intention" and represents the method of applying force or energy in a given technique. And the word Quan, translates to mean"fist boxing" or "hand to hand combat".

Xing Yi Quan is known for its straight-forward approach to self defense and rapid development of martial efficiency.

Students work through simple forms that actually contain profound depth of footwork, body coordination, and deeply rooted power. The training focuses on the development of powerful strikes and simultaneous offensive and defensive techniques. Although it is a fighting art, Xing Yi Quan makes up the third primary component of the Internal Chinese Martial Arts along with Tai Chi and Ba Qua Zhang.

In fact, a core component of Xying Yi Quan training is Standing Meditation (Zhuan Zhang). The primary standing posture is called San-Ti or three powers stance. San-Ti

develops stability, rooting, and body integration. It also fortifies the will power, as standing for longer periods of time can be just as much of a mental workout, as it can be physical.

The five elements of metal, water, wood, fire, and earth are well known components of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

They rate directlly to the Xing Yi Quan basics of Splitting, Drilling, Crushing, Pounding, and Crossing.

According to the 5 element medical theories, these elements also relate to the entire internal body. The lungs, kidneys, liver, heart, and spleen are the 5 yin organs. The stomach, bladder, large intestine, small intestine, and the gall bladder are the 5 yang organs.

Therefore, the art of Xing Yi Quan not only exercises the external physical body, but also massages and improves the function of the internal organs as well. The practice of Xing Yi Quan can provide a holistic approach to physical and mental wellness that fortifies the body both inwardly and outwardly at the same time!!

We at ACTION would like to thank Sifu Green for taking the time to present this article and giving us all a better understanding of the many benefits of Xing Yi Quan, and also of Tai Chi Chuan, as he had done in a previous edition.

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

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The 36 Annual Universal Karate Arts Championships was held on March 13, 2010 at the Recreational Park in Lancaster, SC. As every year this tournament brought in competitors from as far as China, Japan and many states across the U.S. HANSHI JAMES E. WHITE who is the promoter and instructor at Universal Karate Studios located in Lancaster, SC outdid himself again this year. Since the death of his brother, O’Sensei Nathaniel White, Jr. each year is dedicated in memory of him. This year topped the last, Hanshi White presented a one-of-a-kind plaque to his nephew and his brother’s oldest son, Kenneth White, representing all the dedication, hard work, determination and fulfilled dreams of his father.

All competing children twelve years and under were given plaque with a different word (CARING, TRUTH, AND OPPORTUNITY) and sayings inscribed on them. NIDAN nd WEAVER THOMAS was promoted to 2 Degree and YODAN TERESA MCILWAIN was promoted to Professorship and recognized by the National Karate Association.

The Children divisions are always exciting and amazing as to the things these five and six-year olds can do, some divisions had to be expanded to A or B due to the amount of competitors in certain divisions. Be on the lookout in the future for such young martial artist as: AUSTIN LOVETT, BLAZE CATOE and DEVIN REED as these kids can really fight and they also know their katas. As the age of the competitor goes up so does the seriousness of their competition.

They become more in tune with their stances, positioning and performance. The seven to eleven year olds are dynamite with their weapons katas as they demonstrate their skill to the judges and other competitors. Watch for some of these martial arts as they develop their skills over the next few years: JAYDEN MOORE, TIANAH MILLER, and DENISHA WATKINS. Twelve to seventeen year old competitors are fiercer in every way as they compete at a new level of control and discipline. This is shown through their style of fighting, demonstration of weapons, self-defense and katas.

Competitors such as: JAMES CHAPMAN, HAYLEY NAPIER, CHRIS STUMP, TYREK SHAW and SULLIVAN LANT showed the judges exactly what they had to offer and still excite anyone who watches them in action.

The 18+ and 35+ Men Division was awesome. The tempo of the fights was more intense and dramatic as martial artist such as: NATHAN BOURKNIGHT, MARK BROOKS, DAVID HAYES, TOMMIE KNIGHT, CLINT MOORE, and MARK LAUGHLIN st walked away with 1 place trophies. The women’s 18+ and 35+ division left no stone unturned as REBECCA CAUTHEN, KAYCE SMITH, JACCELYNN FRANKLIN and DENISE WATKINS showed they are just as good as the men.

As the day wore on the Jr. Black Belts (nine to 17 year olds) continued the excitement that had started earlier in the day.

JOSHUA LOY, NICHOLAS CARPENTER, BENJAMINE WRIGHT and CHELSA GOWER were just a few of those who st walked away with 1 place trophies in their division. The 35+ Black Belts finished off the day with a Tag Team Kumite (introduced for the first time ever at any tournament) which proved to be a little confusing to the competitors but was fun all the same.

Another first was having a father (KENNETH WHITE) and son (CHOPPER WHITE) as Grand Champions. Also congratulations to HANSHI BELFOUR WRIGHT Grand Champion Black Belt Kata. Congratulations to JAYDEN MOORE (17 and under) and MARK LAUGHLIN (18+) for the title SHOGUN. UNIVERSAL MARTIAL ARTS CHAMPIONSHIP tournaments should never be missed as there is always something for everyone. Be sure to attend all the tournaments and watch these martial artists grow.

By: Kathy Cline On February 20, 2010, the karate world said goodbye to an extremely wellliked and respected martial artist, Johnny Holbrook. He was born on July 19, 1948 in Harrisburg, PA. and was a loving husband, father, grandfather and instructor. Johnny became involved in martial arts in the 1970’s after being robbed at knifepoint. He began teaching in 1982 and was one of the first karate instructors in Johnston County. Johnny was also known for being one of the foot soldiers in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ movie. life. Inside the Dojo was a table set up with a memorial

candle and On March 27, young karate talent gathered at Johnny’s Dojo in Smithfield, NC to compete in the 25th Annual Spring Open Championships. This is the last tournament being held at Holbrook’s Dojo. To honor his memory, this tournament was for competitors 16 years old and under.

Arriving at the tournament, one couldn’t help but notice that the windows were covered with photo boards made by family and friends, showing special moments in Johnny’s more photos of him and his family.

Johnny’s son, John Holbrook, welcomed the competitors and thanked everyone for attending. He then awarded 1st Degree Black Belts to three of Johnny’s students; Jeffrey Bass, Jesse McLean and Cody McLean. After these belts were awarded, Garry Dillingham, of Burke District School of Karate, took the mike. In an emotional ceremony, Garry bestowed the honor of 10th Degree Black Belt and title of “Master,” to both Johnny Holbrook and his wife, Angie. Following this ceremony, Sensei Doug Armstrong from Mountain View Karate Centers performed a break as a tribute to Holbrook.

Once the tournament began, things moved quickly and smoothly. All of the kids did their best and showed great sportsmanship. The youngest competitors were given the thrill of competing in the boxing ring that is the focal point of the Dojo.

One competitor that stood out was a young martial artist from Jeff Blake’s Dojo, Firm Foundation. Caleb Moose, a 10 year old yellow belt green tip, is showing a lot of promise in traditional forms. Caleb competes in both traditional forms and weapons, as well as sparring. This young man placed 6th in 11 and Under Traditional Korean Forms at World Games in Buffalo, NY this past December, and also placed first in his age division for forms and sparring in MATT. He trains with Jeff Blake and Pastor Phil Addison and is involved with the Kicks For Christ Program, a ministry of Stony Point Church. Caleb is going to be one to watch this year in the circuit.

The Spring Open was a great “fun” tournament for young competitors. As I watched the tournament banner being lowered for the last time, I felt that the circuit had suffered a great loss; not only in loosing Master Holbrook, but in loosing this tournament as well.

Wingate, NC Something interesting happened to me on the way to the 2010 UNION COUNTY KARATE CLASSIC in Wingate, NC. We had snow in the roads from the night before, especially tricky in the secondary roads. Down here in the Southeast they consider a couple of inches of snow a major event almost equivalent to a 2 foot blizzard up North. I’m originally from Maine and I am used to driving in harsh snowy conditions. I thought they might cancel the tournament but the Promoter COREY WAITERS just pushed back the starting time from 9:00 am to 10:00 am to give the roads a

chance to clear and competitors more time to get to Wingate, NC. The tournament as usual was held at the Cuddy Arena at st Wingate University. This is a beautiful small college with 1 class accommodations and it is one of my favorite tournament locations.

The tournament actually did not start until after 11:00 am because of the late arriving competitors. But once it started it ran very well and with very little breaks in between the start of each new division. This is a big plus with this reporter because I hate SLOW running disorganized tournaments.

They started off the tournament with a Prayer and the playing of our National Anthem by Jeffrey Mack. He performed a cool guitar solo performance similar to JIMI HENDRICK’S rendition of the National Anthem from the 60’s.

Despite the snow the night before we had a pretty decent crowd, not as big as last year but much bigger than I expected. If there had been no snow storm we would have probably seen 400 + competitors.

The UNION COUNTY KARATE CLASSIC is one of the finest tournaments on the DOJO Organization schedule. DOJO

President COREY WAITERS does a great job organizing the event.

Congratulations go out to COREY WAITERS for his promotion to 6th Dan. GRAND MASTERS JAMES WHITE of Lancaster, SC and LARRY ISSAC of Jacksonville, NC did the honors about half way through the tournament. WAITERS was also awarded the Instructor of the Year for their system.

The 2010 UNION COUNTY KARATE CLASSIC actually had some grappling divisions. That is something more DOJO tournaments will attempt to do in 2010.

One young Red Belt that really impressed me was 17 year old NICHOLETTE BLAKE of Mooresville, NC and the FIRM st FOUNDATION MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL. This was her 1 tournament in 8 years and if she was nervous it didn’t look it. She is the daughter of JEFF “THE BEAST OF THE SOUTHEAST” BLAKE, an NBL Breaking World Champion.

Her Kata was very powerful and her technique was flawless.

I hope to see her compete more in the future.

Other stand outs included talented Under Belts like HALEIGH KANIPE and SARAH CLINE of TEAM MVKC, MARK “THE CEREBRAL ASSASIN” LAUGHLIN of TEAM LIFE FORCE KARATE and CIERA WINTER of TEAM FX. One competitor that caught my eye was 12 yr old RANDALL DERRICK of Connelly Springs, NC. He is a student of MASTER GARY DILLINGHAM’S Burke District School Of Karate. RANDALL competes in a wheel chair, he has been paralyzed since the age of 5. He is an Honor Roll student and is an inspiration to many in the Martial Arts world and his normal life. God Bless you Randall.

As usual the Judging was very good and I heard no complaints from the competitors or parents. Grand Masters JEROME “MAGIC” JOHNSON and DONALD McCLUNEY were the arbitrators for the tournament.

Super talented WAYNE EASTERLING dominated his divisions and won two Grand Championships, The Jr. Black Belt Kata/Weapons and Jr. Black Belt Fighting. This young man is a very well rounded Martial Artist, and has come into his own the last 1 ½ years.

World Champion CASS SIGMON was equally impressive as he also won two Grand Championships, the adult Black Belt Kata/Weapons and Men’s 18-34 Black Belt Sparring.

KENNY MORRISON had some tough fights but brought home the Executive Men’s Sparring Grand Championship.

Overall, considering the late start we got out at a decent hour and that made my ride back to Columbia that much better.

I want to thank COREY WAITERS and his staff for being so accommodating. I give the 2010 UNION COUNTY KARATE th CLASSIC a big thumbs up. 30 ANNUAL MID-CLEVELAND KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Shelby, NC The Shelby City Parks & Recreation Gym in beautiful th Shelby, NC was home to the 30 ANNUAL MID-CLEVELAND KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS. Grand Master DONALD McCLUNEY and his wife CYNTHIA were the host for this wonderful event. This was my first appearance at this

tournament and I enjoyed it tremendously.

One of the things I liked about this tournament is that there was an emphasis on keeping the rings going at all times with very little time between divisions. I HATE EMPTY RINGS, because that’s a sign that we will be at a tournament all day long. I must say that this tournament ran as smoothly as a Rolex watch and that is unusual for tournaments across the country. You don’t last 30 years running a tournament by putting out an inferior product.

Many of the region’s top competitors were in attendance including some amazing youth Under Belts. SARA CLINE of TEAM MVKC is a remarkable young lady with a lot of skills.

She is so gifted she managed to win the Youth Under Belt Grand Championship, beating a large group of competitors aged 17 and under. That is quite a feat for an 8 yr old Intermediate competitor.

Recently I have noticed a shifting of the guard here in the Southeast Tournament circuits, Many new faces have been appearing while some of the seasoned veterans are taking a break from competition.

Another new face to the circuit is RANDALL DERRICK, a 12 year old student of MASTER GARY DILLINGHAM. RANDALL is just like any other kid at a karate tournament except he is paralyzed from the waist down due to botched up back surgery he had at age 5. He is an honor student and very popular among his classmates and his karate buddies.

He is an inspiration to a lot of people. He seems to be a really great kid.

The Judging as usual was very good, and kudos to Action Magazine’s Georgia correspondent LIBBY WOOLARD for coming by to help Judge for the McCLUNEYS. CHRIS URCINOLA did a great job in winning the 18-34 Black Belt Men’s Sparring Grand Championship. He beat some pretty impressive fighters and really showed me something.

Ageless JOEY SHIFLETT defeated DARRELL NORMAN to win the Black Belt Executive Men’s Sparring Grand Championship.

Congratulations to Grand Master DONALD McCLUNEY and his wife CYNTHIA for their hard work and support for the other Promoters.

The Southern Classic, one of the Southeast’s favorite Sport Karate events, was once again held in Greensboro, NC at the Wyndam Garden Hotel. RON and SHARON FERGUSON were the hosts for this fine NBL/SKI, DOJO event. This two day event is always competitor friendly and fairly judged.

Competitors from all over the East Coast made their way to Greensboro, NC for this tournament including several members from TEAM NYC of New York, NY. FRIDAY EVENING : This is the exciting specialty divisions night. Breaking, Musical Weapons/Forms, Continuous Fighting and Self Defense were the flavors of choice that night. In the Breaking Division, the Addison family of TEAM FIRM FOUNDATION dominated the breaking activities. All three members performed very well and did some very good breaks. The father, PASTOR PHIL ADDISON, came up with another world class breaking routine and won his division by beating JON HELMS in a closely contested match up.

In the Jr. Black Belt Musical division CAMERON COLLINS of TEAM GOD SQUAD was impressive. In the Super Talented Under belt Musical divisions TEAM SMAX’S DEVON WORTH, TEAM FX’S LINDSEY WALKER, TEAM STRIKE FORCE’S SCOTTIE “Too Hottie” PERKINS, TEAM MVKC’S HAILEIGH KANIPE and JAYDEN “Big Dawg” MOORE all delivered great performances.

NBL World Champion GABE “The Animal” GRUSE of TEAM STRIKE FORCE continues to improve every month and is now among the elite Bo practitioners in Sport Karate.

SATURDAY: The competition started on time and it moved along pretty well overall.

In the advanced Girls Sparring division I witnessed one of the most exciting fights of 2010. The match was between TEAM

FX’s CIERA WINTER and MICHAELA LANPHER of PIEDMONT MARTIAL ARTS. Talk about excitement and drama, back and forth between these two spirited fighters.

During the fight LANPHER hurt her leg somehow and was hampered with a bad limp. She was down about 3 points with less than 40 seconds left and I thought she was done, but this young lady did not give up and somehow managed to tie the match with less than 10 seconds to go. Well you could not have written a better script for the ending. With about 1 second to go LANPHER landed the winning point and walked away with a 13-12 win. LANPHER came back later in the afternoon to win the Jr. Advanced Forms Grand Championship.

The Jr. Black Belt Traditional Forms Grand Championship was a really close battle between some of the best the Southeast had to offer. GABE “The Animal” GRUSE, MICHELLE RIDDLE, CAMERON COLLINS, LAUREN DUGGARS and CHELSA GOWER are Superb Jr. Black Belts so everyone knew we would be in for a treat. In a very tight nd match up MICHELLE RIDDLE won her 2 consecutive SOUTHERN CLASSIC Traditional Forms Grand Championship.

During the afternoon the competition stopped to honor the memory of ROY WALKER JR… WALKER lost his life the week before the SOUTHERN CLASSIC, and he was RON and SHARON FERGUSON’S adopted son. ROY WALKER was a top notch Martial Artist for many years and was particularly known for his fighting abilities.

Although he was small in stature he fought like a giant. He leaves behind grieving family members, friends, a wife and two year old daughter. God Bless you ROY. The Surprise of the afternoon was seeing DOUG ARMSTRONG come out of retirement to compete in the st Adult Black Belt Musical division. This was the 1 time I have ever seen ARMSTRONG compete and he did a pretty decent Musical Form routine. He was easily the fan favorite during that competition and for his fighting division.

TEAM MVKC’S CHASITY ELLIS and TEAM MASCAL’S GINA THORNTON fought in another rough and tough match up. THORNTON a multiple time NBL World Champion just coming back from major knee surgery looked pretty good in her comeback. She defeated ELLIS in another close contest.

Overall this was one of the more enjoyable events of th 2010. The 10 Annual SOUTHERN CLASSIC is one I would recommend to anyone wanting to attend a safe, fair, fun tournament. Hopefully there is an 11th Annual event in 2011.

The Fergusons told me that this may be the last one they put on, but they also said that to me the last couple of years too. If there is another SOUTHERN CLASSIC in 2011 I would highly recommend this tournament to you. I give it a big Thumbs Up.

By: Joe Lewis

A Loss of Motivation or a Loss of Consciousness?

One of the most familiar experiences any long term martial arts practitioner has dealt with is acknowledging an ongoing battle between having once enjoyed a burning desire to train, and now, an emerging state of mind that lacks even the energy to make it to the gym. If you are one of these people or want to help someone who is, please pause for a second and just let the reality of this thought sink in. This is your beginning, the point from which you make your first step.

and about in what do you trust (the method of your own thinking processes), and also about a strong commitment to that which you call your inner reliance. Now you have a position from which you can take a first step.

How does one know to where or why he is going if he does not know (to embrace, to fully acknowledge, and to own) from where he is starting?

My feelings are the keys to my motivation and my desires.

My spirit is my energy and my pathway. My mentor and/or instructors are my guides and my escorts. Don’t leave home without any of them.

“The emotional brick walls are not there to sidetrack you or keep you from training; they’re there to give you a chance to show the courage you have to prove which is stronger, the will to overcome or the lack of.”

Some day you will realize that this place in your life will become more important than pursuing any first step into some self-motivational course or immediately attempting to take action for change. You did not get here quickly with just a few, short steps, and nor will you leave this place quickly with a few, short, quick-fix steps either.

Sometimes we are manipulated by fear, perhaps a fear of being humiliated by failure, and at other times, the responsibility of success. I’ve seen this with school owners and I’ve watched sport champions self-destruct over the fear of feeling unworthy of their own good fortune. The sport of boxing comes to mind here.

Human nature has structured us to live more to avoid pain than to experience pleasure or joy. Therefore, we tend to allow these “fears to sabotage the efficacy of consciousness, thereby worsening the initial problem”---to quote one of my mentors, Dr. Nathaniel Branden. Over time, we gradually make ourselves emotionally numb to certain things that once inspired us. Emotions have a propensity to encourage and discourage thinking; they can draw us towards wanting to train or away from doing so.

This emotional resistance is what makes taking a first step towards change very difficult. When we make ourselves able to feel less, we make ourselves psychologically blind--we become in effect more unconscious. We feel safe there; this behavior makes life more bearable. I have always said that one’s self-image or self-concept is imperative to becoming great.

If you have worked yourself into a temporary negative self-image, and have also allowed this to dictate your actions, then your performance, or lack of, to consistently engage in purposeful training will reflect this definition.

Hopefully, at this point you can begin to sense whether you have been motivated by fear or by confidence. One will lead you to being the martial artist you admire and the other will lead you to avoid challenges by allowing you to continue to hide in fear of being exposed. any motivation begins with a higher awareness of self---that is the key to what martial arts is about. This awareness is about knowing who you are,

Joe Lewis : Former World Karate / Kickbox Champion United States Marine Corps st (Member of 1 U.S. combat unit in Viet Nam8thMarine Brigade)

WWW.JoeLewisFightingSystems.com

By Dr. Michael Willett

The book, Man By Choice—Male By Birth is now a reality.

The painstaking cathartic undertaking has come full circle. I had no idea how the writing of a book could be so taxing.

The areas of my life that I thought I had made peace with reared its ugly head once again, to much consternation. As my chagrin continued, the bottom of the water that was once clear now became muddy all over again. The wounds that I thought was all sutured, now began to unravel. I share this tale of appeared success to encourage all of our readers to pin your story but it will come at the expense of your past torment and closet demon’s. You will face your deepest and most private secrets all over again, in trying to finish your book. When you do reach the end of your journey, it will become your cathartic oasis. It will become a real place of refreshing and relaxing.

As I look back at the book, I can now exhale and know that all is well with my soul. I did not know who to dedicate the book too. So many people have impacted my life. People as th th far back as my 3 grade teacher, Ms. Fields, my 5 grade, th teacher Mr. Weingarten and my 6 grade teacher Mr. Simmons, all had a great forcefulness in the shaping of my value system. There were so many more individuals that I considered to dedicate the book to, there was Dr. Albert Johnson, the President of the seminary I attended (President of The Inner Light Institute for Christian Studies, Lake George, NY), then there was my first spiritual father, Dr. Ernest Cameron (Senior Pastor of Harlem Tabernacle, NY,NY), and not necessary the final 2 individuals, I had to consider my spiritual mother and father, Dr. A. R. Bernard & Elder Karen Bernard (Senior Pastors of Christian Cultural Center, Brooklyn,NY) .

What I share now is not for you to feel any empathy or sympathy for me; I’m just sharing my life in book form. This next passage is an excerpt directly from the book.

This book is being dedicated to the one and only child I fathered, Michael Samuel Willett ll. I dedicate this book to him that I fathered but was not the man in his life. I was the male role model the he interacted with but not the role model that he needed. Unfortunately Michael Samuel Willett st ll never had the joy to revel and experience his 21 .birthday.

My one and only son was robbed of his youth and was succumb to a massive Asthma attack. My only child passed on to another existence before he could admire me in all new found man splendor, I FAILED Take the plunge into literary pursuits, write your story, write someone else’s story but above all write. One of my favorite question to ask my students, “which is more powerful the gun or the hand and why”? As you might imagine, most of them answer the gun. The answer is very simple, the gun can shoot and the gun can hit or be thrown, that’s the extinct of the gun. Don’t lose site of the fact that it takes a hand to use the gun. On the other side of the coin, the hand has digits and each digit has much flexibility and can be used as a weapon but most of all, the hand can write. That makes you extremely powerful, the ability to write.

I’ll leave you with this, “The strength of the oppressor, is in the ignorance of the oppressed”

l

Columbus Ohio International Bantu Hall of Honor Hall of Champions Stands out as one to be remembered By: Soke Calvin Campbell Sensei Michael Tillery

The weekend of April 9th & 10th, the International Bantu Head of Family, Sokeship Warriors Council in association with the United States head of Family. Held their inaugural Hall of Honors/Hall of Champions weekend at the Concourse Hotel located in Columbus, Ohio next to Port Columbus Airport, the event was a huge success with a sold out event the entire day's activities that consisted of an all day series of seminars given

by prominent individuals from various disciplines in martial arts. These included demonstrations/Seminars from Professor Ed McLachlan (Canada) who demonstrated his art of Ju-Jitsu, which encompassed a style, developed by him that utilizes the ASL (American Sign Language) as its basis. Followed by The Cane Master (Grandmaster Mark Shuey), Grandmaster Vincent Calloway (Midnight Star and the Callaway's Musical Groups) Tai Chi. Professor Terrell Richardson/Grandmaster Pointer/Grandmaster Rodemaker all of whom provided various versions of Combative Hapkido An unexpected surprise was having Sr. Grandmaster Reginald A. Jackson show off in street clothes and giving the audience his splendid display of Open-hand defense followed by a seminar given by the Sr. Grandmaster Victor Moore & Sr. Grandmaster . Woodrow Fairbanks There were also two world kick boxing champions (Mr. Paul Knight & Master Jason Sterling on hand, The days seminars was finished with a demonstration by Master Doc Moon laying between two chairs with a sword under his back and having a cinder block broken over his chest. Our very own Grandmaster Soke Calvin Campbell, who by the way started the evening event off by doing a self defense demo which involved beating down two would be robbers while dressed in his evening tuxedo. Voices in the crowd reported that the evening's dinner was very well received by all who attended several demonstrations were given by the hosts and a surprising newcomer to the martial arts young Mr. Tyler Cronwell in which he showed his skills utilizing the bolo staff and his open hand technique, the demonstration was then followed by Grandmaster KaBa Waters (showing his KaBa-Chi-Ki-Do form). Grandmaster Hawk showed his skill by slicing a potato of a person's throat while blindfolded. The evening's demonstrations ended with Grandmaster Annarino demonstrating a 4-way cut of cucumbers while hooded and blind. A special award was presented to Grandmaster Joe Parrish , for his inspiration and support for this event.

Also, receiving prestigious pioneer awards for over 45 or more years in the martial arts were: Sylvester Cheatam , John Crudup Abdul Bilal and Grandmaster Marshal Furman bottom line each guest stated that they felt as though they were in the presenence of true family which we the Bantu and Head of Family organization set out to accomplish in the first place we would also like thank all who attended for their support and look forward to seeing many happy returns to our hall next year on April 28th of 2010.

JUDO TEAM WINS NATIONAL COLLEGIATE CHAMPIONSHIP The West Point Judo Team won the National Collegiate Championship title in the senior division at the 2010 National Collegiate Championships at Texas A&M in College Station, Texas, March 13. History was made in Collegiate Judo by handing San Jose State University its first team defeat in a half a century, as well as placing ahead of 24 other colleges represented at the event.

They took every division with the exception of the 73kg division and collected a total of 20 points, which was seven points better than the second-place San Jose State.

Firstie Nathan Horswill and Yearling Kyle Schlauch tool home the gold medal in the 66kg and heavyweight divisions, respectively, while Cow Anthony Adez and Yearlings Patrick Singley (100kg), Jung Sung-Won (81kg) and Samuel Ellis (66kg) brought home the silver in their respective weight classes. In the women's division, Firstie Nargis Kabiri and Yearling Heather Purkey became the second and third West Point women National Champions by taking home the gold.

The women finished second to only San Jose State despite only having five atheletes participate at the event.

Yearling Ariel Espinoza-Levy brought home the silver medal at the 57kg division while Plebes Catherine Donohue and Katherine Clarke-Pounder earned bronze medals in the 57kg and 70kg weight divisions, respectively.

Also earning bronze medals in the men's division were Firstie David McCurdy (81kg) and Firstie Kris Kilgroe (100kg).

Lt. Col. Hector Morales was selected as the 2010 NCJA National Coach of the Year, and he was pleased with his team's outcome.

"West Point Judo atheletes represented the academy extremely well and demonstrated the Warrior Ethos, perseverance and character expected of them in every fight," Morales said.

HoteiKan Soke Emilio "Reno" Claudio, IFOJJ's Shihan Anthony Notaro and West Point OR Maj Mike Shattan were assistant coaches.

The team will host the 2010 West Point Judo Classic April 17, the HoteiKan System Seminar April 24, and cadets who placed on the top two spots on their weight division along with selected black belts will attend the USA Judo Senior National Championships during the first weekend of May to close their 2010 season...........Go Army Judo.

June 20, 2010 The much anticipated academic study of the male’s total metamorphosis is now a reality. Man by Choice, Male by Birth the book is in its final stages. New author Dr. Michael Willett has published his first work on Mighty Warrior Publishing.

This compelling study offers males an opportunity to stand in the mirror and have that mirror speak back in a, cold, harsh manner that will reveal deep seeded issues that have lain dormant for many years.

Manhood training is not offered in any learning institution or adult education class, so unfortunately manhood training is learned from other ill advised males in the back alleys and from lamppost jockeys.

The book started in seed form and grew into an experience. The idea first came as a suggestion from some friends from the Board of Education. The suggestion was to write a curriculum for our pre-adolescent and adolescent males. There was no curriculum in place then or now but conversely our pre-adolescent and adolescent females have; sewing, home economics, interpretive dance, etc.

As Dr. Willett started his journey, he was overwhelmed by divine inspiration and the next phase of the work began. He was confronted by the spirit to answer 5 questions. (1) What is a man? (2) At what point did he make the transition from boyhood to manhood? (3) To date what has been his greatest failure as a man? (4) What has been his greatest success to date as a man? (5) Before he leaves this plane of existence, what is the one thing he wants to accomplish as a man? These were truly questions worthy of much contemplation. As the inspiration began to pour into Dr. Willett, he took the premise and expanded it to include other males, so males across America and around the world could benefit from the failures and successes of males just like them.

Manhood is in a state of emergency in the world. The news is permeated with infidelity, domestic violence, abandonment, fatherless homes and reprehensive acts all perpetrated on our females by so called men. This study is a call to reconciliation for all males. The addiction is not the issue; it’s the mind set of our males that needs to be adjusted. This book offers a look at changing ones mindset that will in turn change their thoughts which will ultimately change their behavior.

An inordinate number of you have expressed much interest in purchasing the book, so in one magnanimous gesture, Dr. Willett is offering the book Man by Choice, Male

by Birth as a pre-launch offer to all at the regular price of $19.95 with one major caveat. All individuals that pre order the book, will receive 2 free tickets to be a part of the Man/Male seminar in your area. They would have an opportunity to meet and greet the Men of Destiny that have bared their souls in the book. That’s Dr. Willett’s way of saying a big, thank you and he looks forward to meeting all of you.

Please make all checks payable to Mighty Warrior, Inc P.O.Box 280568 Queens Village, New York 11428 call 888 341-437

mw7802@gmail.com

www.malebybirth.com

Karate Kid gets Red Carpet Ride Steve "Sensei Steve" Gross of Sensei Steve's Karate Center in Villa Park, IL took his children to the Chicago premiere of The Karate Kid. The kids got autographs and met the stars of the film including Jaden Smith and Jackie Chan. One of Steve's sons got a special treat when Will Smith picked up five year old Caleb and took him out on the red carpet.

"Man of the Year; Grandmaster Ron Van Clief as "Legend World Martial Arts Ambassador"; Professor Eugene Humesky as "Living Legend" for being one of the few nonKoreans to have earned a 9th dan in TaeKwonDo recognized in Korea and for his founding of UTB TaeKwonDo; Grandmaster John Prevatt as a "Historical Figure in Sport Karate" and Kyoshi John Peeler for "Historical Figure Shorinryu" in recognition of his co-founding one of the first American Shorinryu dojos in Okinawa. New members whose membership certificates were signed during it's 18th Annual Meeting include Hanshi Moti Horenstein of Extreme Hisurdat -Israel/ Florida; Professor James Price of USA Goju Florida; and Colonel George Bristol, Founder of the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program - Virginia.

Photos attached: Seminar leaders representing arts from around the world pose for picture (Grandmaster Sanchez is 4th from right kneeling in green gi); A Proclamation declaring May 29th as "World Head of Family Sokeship Council" Day .

WORLD KALIS SILAT KUNTAW SEMINAR PERRY HALL, MARYLAND By : Sifu Abdulmushsiy Abdurrahman

Sensei Steve was appointed last spring by Sony Pictures as the head judge for the Karate Kid Challenge held at Six Flags Great America Theme Park and was the special guest at a showing of the film opening weekend at the York Theater in Elmhurst.

WHFSC 17th Annual Meeting & Awards The "World Head of Family Sokeship" grandmasters council held its 17th Annual Meeting, International martial arts symposium and awards dinner on May 28th - 29th at Loews Royal Pacific Resort - Universal Studios in Orlando,

Florida. The event which drew attendance from hundreds of martial artists from all over the world, marked the 18th year of the Council's existence as one of the premiere martial arts organizations in the world under the leadership of Grandmaster Frank E. Sanchez of Guam. Highlights of the event included a Proclamation by the Honorable Mayor Buddy Dyer of Orlando declaring May 29th as "World Head of Family Sokeship Council" Day. The induction of Modern Pankration Grandmaster Jim Arvanitis as the Council's

Master Jun Pallangayan, Master Bob Light, and Guro Reymar Asonalleba partnered together to give a fun, entertaining, and educational seminar on the up and coming popular ancient art that emulates from the Phillipines, Kalis Silat Kuntaw (Kun-Tao). Nearly 45 excited participants, males and females from all ages and backgrounds assembled in the Honeygo Recreation Center's Gymnasium and conference room for a 4 hour seminar on the use and applications of the knife, stick, bolospada, along with tactical strategies and practical self defense of this ancient art.

Additionally, nearly 50 enthusiastic spectators watched in excitement as the participants and instructors went over and over the finite aspects to make sure that all had the proper understanding and comprehension of what was being taught. Unlike many semeinars, after the first hour or hour and a half, one would see the attendees get bored, NOT HERE, the excitement lasted from beginning to end, with only a few breaks. The heavily padded body armor worn by the participants clearly demonstrtated the effectiveness of each and every technique.

At the conclusion of the day and to top off this funfilled event, Master Jun issued certificates and rank diplomas to the well derserving participants, that was used as a time to take many videos and pictures in order to savior the moment. I shall like to point out, that among all of the pagentry, this columnist had the opportunity to witness a well known martial artist of this system received another degree in his black belt ranking, this person is Jahi Akinowle, better known by those in the martial arts world as, "SHO NUFF" who reminds one as identical to the character of the martial arts movie, "The last dragon", one eye closed, and one eye open and all!!!! MAY YOU ALL HAVE A SAFE, ENJOYABLE, AND FUNFILLED SUMMER!!!!!!!

BALTIMORE'S MARTIAL ARTS CELEBRITY ROAST / BANQUET Baltimore, Maryland Please allow us here at ACTION to recognized Sensei Lisa Scott, Master Anthony "Tony" Jackson, and last but certainly not least, Grm. Rielly Hawkins, for stagging another very, very successful, well organized, and highly attended recognition awards ceremony for only a "select" few contributors to the Martial Arts here in the city of Baltimore.

Although from different martial arts organizations, Grm. Hawkins and Master Jackson from the "Avengers" karate club, and Sensei Scott from the "Shogun" karate club they clearly showed what can be done when people work together collectively for the common good of humanity as a whole, and putting egos aside. The reason they only use a select few to recognize, is because unlike most awards presentations, where awards are given to virtually anyone who can afford to do so. Here at their event, presentations are given for the individual whom has demonstrated a helping hand to the Martial Arts here for all, as opposed to their own individual accomplishments, and are completely all gratis!!!

To the delight of all in attendance, this served as an opportunity to meet and greet old acquaintences and to make new ones. The pleasant music in the background helped to set the stage of a pleasurable immediately-and for the remainder of the evening. This columnist had the honor of serving as M.C. for the evening's activities starting things off with giving away door prizes to the fortunate ticket holders, and afterwards having Martial Arts demonstrations, which was done as the those in attendence were dining on a very scrumptious and delectable meal. Those that were recognized for their many indelible contributions to Baltimore's Martial Arts community are as follows: 1) posthumosly to OLIVER & KATE MURDOCK = PEACE & HONOR AWARD 2) posthumosly to LISA GUY = DEDICATION AWARD3) MASTER BETTY HAWKINS = PIONEER AWARD 4) MASTER JAMES "JUNIE" BOYKINS = DEDICATION AWARD 5) GRM. ROOSEVELT "GRUMP" GARLAND = LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD 6) GRM. GARCIA DAVIS = LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD 7) SENSEI LISA SCOTT = DEDICATION & COMMITMENT AWARD (by surprise) The ceremony came to a conclusion after a few more door prizes and souvenirs were given away as keepsakes of this memorable & historic gathering here in "CHARM CITY" Baltimore. Enclosing we here at ACTION, encourage all of our readers to do the same venture in their communities and watch the response. By the way, I strongly recommend that on all of your invitations and corresponding materials you distribute you make it plain and clear that ALL ARE WELCOME, with the exception of the egotist's triplets, commonly know in society as ME, MYSELF, AND I. In fact put a large poster outside the door of the venue alerting all again, they are welcomed but they must leave these three outside and the can unify with them AFTER the event's conclusion. Doing this small act, greatly stretches your possibilities of success!!!

A CELEBRATION OF SUCCESS Randallstown, Md. The Randallstown community center was full of excitement as the children from the Shotokan karate of Maryland held a demonstration of this traditional martial art to a thrilled audience of more than 75 smiling spectators.

Sensei Najib Amin along with his lovely wife, Sis. Mannan Amin, and their large host of Parents of the students, gave a very well put together demonstration and student testimony of how this training has helped them to become a much better person and be able to achieve their many, many goals and benefits in life.

From the much younger beginner students, to the older advanced students, they gave new meaning to the word "focus", because their facial expressions clearly showed that they minds were strictly and clearly on the "job at hand". While all of this was going on in the recreation room, across the hall in the meeting room was a dvd presentation of current and past students whom had gone on to complete college and are working in their chosen field of expertise, along with happiness and peace of mind, with their families, friends and associates-outling their "compassionate, caring, and family atmosphere" at the dojo gave them the opportunity to aspire to their fullest totential.

We here at ACTION applaud Sensei Amin and his "Shotokan Family" in all of their successes, and encourages them to continue this legacy for those youngsters still searching!!

Stepping Down IKF World Super welter Weight Kickboxing Champion Jimmy Stewart, retires after a long and hard fighting career. Jimmy is now a th 4 Degree Master Instructor in Tae Kwon Do and has spent 25 years in the Martial Arts.

He started in Karate in 1985 and in 1989 had st his 1 amateur kickboxing match. His amateur record is st impressive, 27-5-2. His 1 Pro kickboxing bout was in May 1996. In the next 12 years as a Pro he amassed a record of 19-0-14 KO’s.

Moving to Las Vegas Nevada to finish his kickboxing career, Jimmy Stewart was struck by a car on a crosswalk by an automobile in February 2009. Four surgeries’ later, repaired and with no sight in his right eye, Jimmy was OK with saying “I’m Done”. Jimmy says “I can only look back now at all the great people I’ve met along the way and all the good friends I made. Most of whom were my opponents..

Being an amateur Champion, turning Pro was a good move for him. As a Professional Kick boxer Jimmy Stewart won the IKF Pennsylvania State Middleweight Title in 1999, WPKA North American title in 2000 USA Light Middleweight Title in 2001, and then the IKF World Welterweight Title in October of 2004. He then spent the next 5 years totally uncontested and unchallenged by all contenders.

Although retired, Jimmy Stewart is still involved in the sport. He works for the Pennsylvania State Athletic Commission as a Deputy Inspector and also owns and operates the “Stewart Center” in his hometown of Butler, PA teaching traditional Tae Kwon Do.

A TV Show for Traditional Martial Arts Fans A TV Show for traditional martial arts fans has finally arrived. The World Martial Arts TV Show produced by Action Star Media, Inc, and sponsored by World Martial Arts Media.

It is a worldwide broadcast featuring the biggest names in the martial arts business and entertainment industries. The show’s production manager, Kevin Rhodes said: “This show will be a refreshing change from all the unsportsmanlike conduct and violence that we see on MMA programming. We feel that the American public will quickly embrace the clean cut image of our featured performers.”

The World Martial Arts TV Show content focuses on training information and featuring various styles and experts. Show segment topics will include Striking and Kicking arts, Grappling Arts, Self Defense Skills, and Martial Arts Forms. There will also be celebrity profiles, product reviews and specialty segments. The feature members of the “Team Americas” World Martial Arts Show Team along with several Hall of Fame Awardees. The self defense segment will star Martial Arts Icon Grand Master Carl Stone.

Other featured performers will include Master Chris Edwards, Grand Master Steve Turk, Grand Master Gary Pointer, Grand Master Gregory Glover and Master Darren Norris. Special Weapons Training segments will feature Grand Master Danny Zaino, Tony Zaino, Joey Zaino and Dominique Zaino. The show is hosted by TV and Radio personality, Grand Master Richard Hackworth, who is also the co-host of the Action Martial Arts Magazine Radio Show.

Hackworth’s co-host is TangSooDo expert and radio personality Master Fred Parks. Hackworth and Parks first worked together on “The Action Martial Arts Magazine Show” for the Action Radio Network. For more information visit www.actionstarmedia.com or watch the show at www.worldmartialartstv.com .

LOST BROTHER “WAKA-WAKA MAN” Africa needs a hero is the logline of the African Diaspora and African American film cooperation in the action packed African Martial arts movie run by NGUL Productions www.ngulproductions.com called Lost Brother “Waka-waka man” which will be filmed in Cameroon a central African country in ending 2010 or early 2011.

Aurélien Henry OBAMA from Cameroon an African Martial arts expert and also publisher of the famous African online martial arts magazine called Shiai Magazine “The International African Martial Arts Magazine” www.shiaimagazine.net will star as the main lead actor who is also the film producer and writer.

He grew up in America and Canada in the 70’s and 80’s when his father was a diplomat for Cameroonian government. His maternal great grandfather was a famous African warrior Chief called Ahanda Noah MBIA who died at age of 125 years old in the 60’s and who had more than 60 wives and more than 300 children. Aurélien Henry OBAMA is considered as a civil righter fighter in the martial arts world, he has been fighting to promote the true image of Africans in the international world of martial arts and sport combats. Through this movie, Aurélien Henry OBAMA wants to give the African child a hero to believe in and who is like

him. Retired world kickboxing champion African American Robert Parham turned film actor will star as the main villain of the film. Actual world kickboxing champion African American Jason Sterling will star as the friend of the hero.

Jamaican model and actress Nerissa Irving will star as the girlfriend of the main villain. Pavel Nyziak from Poland film agent and webmaster of Bolo Yeung will play a cameo role in the movie. Famous Cameroonian and African martial artists and casts will participate in the movie. Robert Parham, Jason Sterling and Pavel Nyziak are also associate producers of the film.

Many young aspiring African musicians are working on the film soundtrack. Cameroon also known as Africa in miniature has a beautiful landscape, the beauty of this African country will be portrayed in the film.

All those interested to help out to make this wonderful African film become a reality can contact film producer at shiai_magazine@yahoo.com First Annual Muslim Martial Artist Banquet-Seminar Brooklyn, N.Y. –Over 140 Muslims and non-Muslim martial arts practitioners gathered at Akbar Hall, located on Bedford Avenue in Brooklyn New York, to attend a historical event. For the first time in history, The United Muslim Martial Artist Association [U.M.M.A.A.], founded by Mu’allim Najee Hassan and his wife Ustadha Rahma Hassan (also the founders of Sirat as-Sayf Muslim martial arts system), Muslim Masters of the martial arts came together under one roof to share their skills.

The atmosphere was friendly and open. Masters and students openly sharing their love for the martial arts. On this day all egos and politics were left at the entrance to the hall. The theme of the day was “Vanguards of the Sunnah”.

All Muslims in attendance were enlightened by a speech from Muhammad Yasin, a student of knowledge in Islam. He spoke about the importance of keeping alive the ways and actions of Prophet Muhammad and how he lived his life in accordance to the Islamic faith.

After the Workshop-Seminar, everyone rushed to get dressed for the banquet award dinner. Awards were given out to some of the most prominent Muslim martial artists who are living still. Instead of plaques and trophies, Islamic sword and knives were awarded to the recipients. Some of the recipients who received awards were: Sijo Abdul Mutakabbir, Soke Haisan Kaleak, Prof. Sayfullah AlAmriykiy, Soke Felix Vasquez, Master Yusef Ali Abdullah, Master Ali Abdul Karim, Grandmaster Anton Muhammad, just to name a few. We ended the day in prayer and supplications to all in attendance and asked our Creator to bless us all with good health and a prosperous future.

The next annual seminar will be held on September 18, 2010 at Masjid Ahlul Qur’aan wa Sunnah, in South Ozone Park Queens, New York.

For more information please contact Mu’allim Najee Hassan at 718-487-3536. Or visit his website for information on how to register: www.siratulsaifinternational.com.

Future Spot Light

Justin Gonzalez

East Meets West Cultural Gathering

By Mark Huard

Justin started karate shortly before his 6th birthday. His parents tried a couple different sports for him to channel his excess energy, but nothing excited him until his daycare took a fieldtrip to a local karate school. As it turned out, a daycare friend was also a student at that studio, & he invited Justin to come take a class. He was immediately hooked!

When that studio closed, his family moved to Elite Martial Arts. It was there, under the instruction of Kalman Csoka, Ginny Csoka & Carolyn Csoka, that Justin has flourished as both a student and a competitor.

Justin has been studying martial arts for 5 years. He earned his black belt in August, 2007 and is now training to test for his 2nd degree.

Justin is a prime example of how kids can benefit from the martial arts. From a very early age he was a bundle of energy – how high could he climb & how far could he jump, just non-stop. Team sports didn’ t intrigue him because “ they don’ t share” ; however, with karate he was free to move & learn at his own speed. At first he was very self-conscious, fearful of making mistakes or “ not being perfect” . As his training progress, & most especially with the move to Elite, Justin has gone from “ I can’ t do it” to “ of course I can” . He has developed tremendous self confidence & has just become a completely different kid. This has also carried over into his schooling, where he has gone from a shy, insecure student, to one who can now address his classmates with confidence.

Justin started competing on the local circuit at the age of 7 in both weapons & forms, and won the weapons division at his very first tournament. His trophy was taller than he was! His weapon of choice is the sword, after having watched Mr. Csoka demonstrate his extreme sword form at one of our graduations. Justin immediately said “ I want to do that!” He moved to the NASKA circuit the following year and had great success as an underbelt. At the age of 9 he moved into the black belt divisions, where he is consistently ranked in the top 10. He won is first NASKA tournament in 2008 at the Compete Nationals. He was so excited, as this meant that not only could compete in his first Grands, but also he could do that along side his idol and team mate, Austin Crain.

In addition to his training for 2nd degree, Justin is also gearing up for the coming competition season. He is training hard with Mr. Csoka, preparing to compete in musical forms and weapons, creative forms & weapons, and traditional sword form. In additions he attends weekly gymnastics classes with hopes to start competing in the extreme divisions.

What does Harvard have to do with a Shaolin Master Li Sheying from the Shaolin Temple Quanfa in China? Well, if the truth was to be known, it certainly was demonstrated in tonight's performance by Master Li, held at the Ichabod's Tavern in Chicopee, Ma. on June 5, 2010 in front of an audience of 60 martial artists. The event was headed up by Grandmaster Yon Lee of Harvard Tai Chi Tiger Crane Club, Grandmaster Winchell P.C. Woo of the Chiu Mo Kung Fu Academy in Boston's Chinatown, Grandmaster Kenneth Miarecki of Sen-i ryu Budo and Grandmaster John Wooten founder/Soke of Woo Jutsu Jujutsu System of Systems.

Highlights of the evening included the following: 1. A demonstration from the Chiu Mo Kung Fu Lion Dance Team. (2007 Silver Medal winners World Championships Bejing, China and 2010 Gold Medal winners Open Invitational Hong Kong)

2. A interactive demonstration with the audience on Ki and Certering by Shiodin Louis Perriello, Aikido.

3.

A demonstration by Master Li with musical accompaniment. Master Li did a hand from, a spear form and a sword form with very precise, flowing power and balance.

4. A demonstration of Chi by Grandmaster Winchell P,C, Woo. While bending 3 steel tipped spears with his body and 1 spear in his throat, a cinder block was broken by a sledge hammer on his back between his shoulder blades.

5. A short demonstration of "Healing Tai Chi" and a discussion on its uses by Grandmaster Yon Lee. Well, the evening was successful and the Shaolin Master Li Sheying definately lived up to expectations.

His performance as a true Shaolin Master most certainly was demonstrated.

After watching Master Li perform, the audience was in awe and you couldn't even hear a pin drop in the room. Once more the legend of Shaolin was proven and even I, Grandmaster John Wooten, World's Strongest Man, holder of 143 world records, was convinced.

Editor's note: It should be noted that Grandmaster Wooten attributes his great strength and power to the training in Chi Kung he recieved early in his career from Grandmaster Winchell Woo.

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

Amateur Mixed Martial Arts As I travel around the country to both amateur MMA events and professional MMA events I have been witnessing somethings about the sport that really disturbed me, the promoters of the fights are promising the competitors everything and hardly giving them anything. The amateur MMA fighters are getting there heads kicked in for a trophy that cost about $5.

They are telling the fighters that if they pay there dues fighting in amateur MMA events they will eventually rip the rewards when they turn pro. They are promising the fighters large purses and many endorsements, when i have seen none of that to be true other than a world title fight. The promoters are telling the fighters that when they turn pro if they become good enough they will receive endorsements from companies like Coke and Pepsi, this could not be further from the truth. These companies would never endorse a fighter either in amateur MMA or professional MMA, because the sport is just to violent. These companies will only sponsor athletes like Payton Manning, Michael Phelpes and Tom Brady. I even overheard one promoter telling a very good MMA fighter who I happen to like a lot that he believes one day because of his awesome fighting ability and good looks that he could end up on the front of a Wheaties box, THAT WILL NEVER HAPPEN. A lot of you love the sport so you may find that hard to believe but as many of you know I am one of the greatest promoters of Martial Arts of all time. So trust me when I say that this will never happen, there is not enough pages in this magazines for me to explain to you why this is the truth, but PLEASE feel free to call me and I will explain to you why. There are so many behind the scenes corruption that it is beginning to make me sick. I know this has occurred in boxing for along time but part of the reason why I took this job for Action Martial Arts magazine was I felt that with my knowledge of the martial arts and my influence I could change things for the better. I have been involved with martial arts for over 40 years both as a competitor and as a promoter, and there is no other sport that can give so much to one person as martial arts. True martial arts is about respect and honor, right now a lot of that is missing in mixed martial arts. Sometimes I think that sport should be called AF (animal fighting) instead of MMA (mixed martial arts). I truly believe that with my strong involvement now in mixed martial arts that I can change things for the better. Don't get me wrong I have meet a lot of promoters, competitors, trainers and a tremendous amount of fans who are absolutely great for the sport. It will take time for the good to get rid of the evil but if MMA is going to be a true martial art then it is going to take a positive influence of martial artist like you and I to change the sport from what it is to what it should be. Thirteen years ago I helped promote the first MMA event every held in Atlantic City at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino, we had a great team to help get MMA legal in Atlantic city. Everyone on that promoting team from Doctor Eddie Anduhar, Alan Goldberg, Dave Sirota, Howard Petscher and myself were hoping that this new sport would have the same amount of integrity as sport karate. I have to give thanks to then New Jersey athletic commissioner Larry Hazzard for believing in us. Even though some of the MMA leagues and promoters are carrying the sport in the wrong direction there are a lot of good promoters like John Rallo and Lou Neglia who are taking this sport in the right direction. Some of the athletic commissions in this country are really helping to make the sport more professional and for that I thank them. If you truly want to help mixed martial arts grow in a positive way you will have to ask yourself this question and there really is no way around this, How can I help this sport grow in a positive manner?

Another real disappointing trend I am seeing in MMA events the life of me I don't understand this, is that in many states like Florida and Maryland professional MMA events are legal and amateur MMA events are not.

Recently I was at a MMA event in Florida and because amateur MMA events are not legal in Florida the promoter had all thefighters come the day before and did all the proper paperwork to turn them pro that day. Now to say the

least I did not approve of this but unless the promoter was to bring in all professional fighters from another state or very experienced professional fighters in Florida which would cost the promoter a tremendous amount of money. He had no other choice but to do so, because promoters of local fights depend upon the popularity of fighters from their area to draw people to watch them fight. The local fan base is always how you are going to make money at an event, verses fans from coming out of state. The only way to do it the other way would be if the promoter had paper view television. So I asked a state athletic commissioner "why is it done this way?" He said "because it's the easiest way to do it." I said "then why didn't you do it that way in boxing in your state? I mean you had passed amateur boxing rules and have had many amateur boxing events, way before you had professional boxing events." That would be like taking a white belt and putting them in the black belt division. Do you think that would be fair? I could tell he was growing very angry with me so I said "So would it be fair?" He said "no." So I got my point across and didn't push it any further. He told me he would seriously look into it and start the proper paperwork to get amateur MMA passed in his state. So you see its true, it's better to catch bees with honey than fly paper. All of the competitors who turned pro that day and fought had the exact same outcome of any white belt that had to fight his first fight in the black belt division. They got beaten and blooded unmerciful. I was recently introduced to a former UFC fighter by one of my black belt students from Daytona Beach, Florida Will Bitorf. We were walking from the mall with his fiance` Joanne when we ran into his friend. He proceeded to tell me about his 2 year career in the UFC. During his career he received a broken jaw, 5 broken ribs, a collapsed lung and back damage, all of this for a mighty sum of $18,000. Now you even further know what I am talking about. If you decide to become an MMA fighter you better train, train, train before you decide to do so.

GATOR NATIOINALS Recently I attented a sport karate and grappling event in Daytona Beach, Florida, the event was promoted by Charlie Lane. When I arrived I was greeted by Charlie's wife, who was extremely pleasant and took me right to Charlie to interview him on his event. The event was very well organized and had a real good turn out. I was mainly interested in seeing the grappling part of the tournament, I was very surprised and happy to see that Mr.Lane had the grappling event in another beautiful area of the arena. It was a great competion with nothing but excellent grappling referee's. I really have to compliment Mr.Lane for renting a jumbo tron television, so both the competitors and spectators could watch it on t.v. I encourage all promoters of sport karate to start included grappling as part of there tournament, it's not only good financially for the promoter but it gives a lot of venues for competitors to compete in. If you want to be a serious MMA fighter, these are the three steps I want you to take 1. Compete in grappling events, when you get good enough 2. Start competing in amateur MMA events, and when you have fought in at least 25 fights and done real well then you can 3. Turn pro. So what I am telling you to do is to follow the same steps as other sports such as baseball and football meaning, 1st they have little leagues, 2nd they have junior varsity and varsity at the high school level, 3rd is the college level. If you follow these steps that I have outlined for you this gives you the best chance to succeed as a competitor. For all you grappling competitors for the first time ever I have over 50 divisions in grappling for adult men and women, teens and kids in both with gi and no gi at the Battle of Baltimore on October 17, 2010. For more information on this event please contact me. My contact information is listed below.

If you have news or notes about “MMA” in the future please contact me: Phone: 443299-2047 Fax: 352-433-0675 E-mail: JohnBurdyck@comcast.net Or on the world wide web www.burdyck.com OUSH!

53rd Anniversary of Don Nagle’s ISSHINRYU American Okinawan Karate Association Inc. ANNUAL

Saturday September 25th 2010 Marist High School Gymnasium 1241 Kennedy Boulevard Bayonne, NJ 07002 OPEN TO ALL STYLES, SPECTATORS $5.00 This is a NON CONTACT tournament Doors open 9:00 am tournament starts at 11:00 $50.00 for all three events on the day of the event

Kata – Weapons Kata – Kumite Pre-register for $40.00 prior to September 17th 2010 Day of the Event $50.00 All 1st place winners will receive a commemorative digital photo plaque of ISSHINRYU’S LEGEND GRANDMASTER DON NAGLE Trophy awarded to 2nd and 3rd Place winners Also the

Don Nagle AOKA World Open ISSHINRYU Karate Team Fight Championship OPEN TO ISSHINRYU BLACK BELTS ONLY

Defending Champion Teams Men’s Team and Women’s Team Temple’s School of Karate

All Teams must pre-register $100.00 Visit the official Don Nagle Website www. AOKAINC.com or Call (201) 436-5330 For further information contact AOKA President, Ralph D. Passero, 9 th Dan

Isshinral@AOL.com Visit the web site for pre registration application and details

PANTHER'S BKC TOURNAMENT The Carmelo Anthony Recreation Center served as the sight for this year's annual Baltimore Karate Circuit's open martial arts tournament. Sponsored by its founder, Soke "Mike" Panthers, this tournament continues to draw many competitors from the Baltimore metropolitan and surroundings area. Approximately 125 competitors and 150 spectators had a most enjoyable time, to witness competitors from all age groups and Martial Arts styles, give it their very best to impress the judges in this numerous multi divisional event. Many well known and "seasoned" Referees and judges were in attendance to lend their help and support, that always makes this annual tournament well attended and enjoyed.

Each competitor had the opportunity to walk away with one of the many beautiful trophies or support souvenirs, that this tournament has been well known for. Your see, Soke Panther's theme for so many years has been, ABSOLUTELY NO POLITICS, and EVERYBODY IS A WINNER!! As always the children's divisions gave the audience their moneys worth and more, with their pinpoint performances.

The day winded down with the long anticipated Grandchampionships that brought loud cheers and applauses to a most satisfying day. Keep in mind, events such as these motivates the competitors to do well and be assets to their communities, instead of liabilities.

CONSIDER HAVING ONE IN YOUR AREA!!!!!

Kyoshi Fitzpatrick, Bruce’s Ortiz, Ron Stephenson are just some of the highly qualified Masters who bowed in the

eager competitors.

Parks was grateful to all of the volunteers who took the time to judge and referee the free event. Over 150 teens from different martial arts styles and schools competed. Kids competed in forms, fighting and team fighting.

The camaraderie seen from different schools and styles is a quality that is seen so vividly among young martial artist.

Sportsmanship, good character, leadership and respect were seen from all participants.

We look forward to the 2011 free teen tournament and to Karate Tournament of Champions at Queens College on November 21, 201o. Please go to www.karatetoc.com for more information.

“Fists for Fitness”

By Susan Rhonda Friedman Karate Kids throughout the city joined New York City Parks and Recreation and Seiko Hanshi Rick Diaz for the 2nd Annual Free Teen Karate Tournament. As part of a fitness campaign educating teens about the positive effects of good physical fitness through Martial Arts training, the theme this year was “Fists for Fitness”.

The tournament was held at the Al Oerter recreation center is Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens. Al Oerter recreation center is a state of the art facility with a full weight and cardio room, running track, gymnasium and many wonderful programs including a large karate program run by Hanshi Diaz. Having this free sports competition at this center is only appropriate as Al Oerter was a 4 time Olympian competitor who was very involved in helping our youth.

“Offering a free tournament allows young martial artists to meet and learn from one another. It is a great way to give back to the community”, said Goju Ryu Hanshi, William Louie. Kids enjoyed all the giveaways that provided by Parks and Sony’s Karate Kid movie, starring Jaden Smith.

Competitors and instructors walked away with posters, bandana’s, t-shirts, notebooks and pens Master Sam McGee, Sa Bum Nim Dave Moradi, Master Dave Thomas, Master Kelly Price, Hanshi William Louie,

Maryland Victory Cup By:

Shakim Shabazz

On May 15, 2010 Grand Master Leroy “Superfeet” Taylor th hosted the 28 Annual Maryland Victory Cup at its new location the Randallstown Community Center. The forecast was clear but the action was thunderous, martial arts biggest stars from the past - present- future came to participate. On attendance names like Greg Mays, “ Stonewall” Jackson, Gerald Dawson where just a couple of celebrity judges overseeing the intense competition.

Weapons, kata’s, semi-contact sparring, were some of the events building up to the main event M.A.S.M.A.L. SUPERFIGHTS with the cash prize of $1,000. Jerrell Dawson (M.A.S.M.A.L.) star and National World Champ Jason Bourelly, Devine Butcher and Greg Wilson the stage was set for the highly awaited action. Double elimination it came down to the wire Jason vs. Jerell Each kick and punch was follow by the spectators aawwhhhh!!!! And screaming “Did YOU see That”!! I was a long hard battle Jerell blitzing and reverse punches were just not enough to pull the victory over Jason ax kick and lighting precision techniques. To catch the action pack fights follow link http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=maryland+vi ctory+cup+2010&aq=f

Battle of Maine By: Mark Huard Huard's 30th annual Battle of Maine Martial Arts Championships took place at Sukee Arena in Winslow, Maine on March 27, 2010. Just over 350 competitors and

approximately 1,000 spectators attended the event. Many local and regional teams were in attendance for a great day of martial arts competition and martial arts day celebration.

March 27 was declared Martial Arts Day throughout the state of Maine by Governor John Baldacci.

The event kicked off with some spectacular martial arts demonstrations of teams from the state of Maine. Huard's Sport Karate Back Row Performance team captured first place, followed by Dragonfire Martial Arts Team out of Saco, Maine and Hall's Olympic Tae Kwon Do Demo Team.

Following team demos, opening ceremonies were held.

The event was dedicated to the Honorable John Jenkins of Lewiston. All 10 rings were then open for action. Over 130 divisions were offered for all ages.

Each year the battle helps support Healthcare Charities' Children's Miracle Network of Eastern Maine Healthcare Systems. Students from the dojo collected pledges to compete to help save children's lives.

The following students deserve lots of credit for collecting to help children: David Lamanteer II, of Waterville, who brought in $1,254.24; Jake and Juliann Lapierre, of Winslow, who earned $1,000; and Owen Hines, of Oakland who collected $462. Other students who collected for CMN include Stormy Wentworth, Zoe Derosby, Nick Derosby, Carter Bragg, Alex Demers and Eli Yang. To this date Huard's Battle of Maine Martial Arts Championships has raised over $45,000 to help support children's hospitals in Central and Northern, Maine.

GROSSCUP'S MPKA TOURNAMENT The Community College of Baltimore County here in Dundalk, Maryland as tradition goes, once again served as the venue for the very popular Maryland Professional Karate Association's tournment.

Marking its 97th event, this tournament drew more than 100 competitors, from various martial arts disciplines, and approximately 250 excited people to see beginner, intermediate, advance, and black belt competitors go for top honors in this 80 divisional open tournament. Professor David Grosscup, past "ACTION" Hall of Honor inductee, was the promoter for this well run and lively event.

From the youngest, to the most senior competitor, each performed at their highest level for

one the beautiful trophies, Prof.

Grosscup has become admired by so many because of his support, fair and equal treatment to ALL martial artists, augmented with some of the best and well known officials from that area.

One of the many special guests on hand was Dr. William Rankin, from the well known and popular U.S. Martial Arts Association. Another very special guest was Grandmaster Roosevelt "THE GRUMP" Garland, from the Shogun Karate Club, who much to his deserving surprise, received a "Lifetime Achievement" from Prof. Grosscup to show his and all those in attendance appreciation for what he has done, and is still doing for the growth and development of the martial arts. Needless to say, Grm. Garland is also a past inductee in "ACTION'S' Hall of Honor, just as so many of his friends and associates in the martial arts.

Enclosing, let us congradulate Prof. Grosscup and his loving wife Etta, for all of their long, hard work, and encourage them and their associates to continue the legacy and longevity, for many years to come.

Asian World of Martial Arts saw anything like it, Martial Arts merchandise By: Master Alan Goldberg

Almost four decades in business and still growing, AWMA has grown to one of the largest

martial suppliers in the world. What’s their secret? The owners personal touch, a one-on-one contact with the public.

Owners Georgette, Steve and George Ciukurescu are living the American dream.

From their home to a 300 ft store front in Philadelphia to the present mega 70,000 foot warehouse and a impressive 7000 sq foot retail showroom.

You could find just about anything you need from a Martial Arts novice to a school owner. This is like walking in a Martial Arts super market.

When I made my trips to their past locations Steve or George were always on hand to meet and greet.

So it was no surprise when I walked into this new

state-of-the-art complex, there they were both doing what they do best. It was a refreshing feeling to see they didn’t lose their touch. I received the special tour of the facility. I never

stacked up over 30 feet, the staff of over 35 taking

orders and shipping the days orders in a timely fashion like a well oiled machine.

These guys are hands-on and being an owner of my own business I know that’s what has to be done to be a success.

The best part of my visit was sharing stories with Steve and George. They might not be Martial Artists but for sure these guys are a wealth of knowledge and have a grasp of where, when and how.

So you know being a publisher of Action, I listened very carefully to all they said (they were my Instructors for the day). And realized they had their finger on the pulse of the martial arts world.

Like a old fashion Mom and Pap store, tradition doesn’t change, the Ciukuresua family has grown to bring in some of their children into the business and to say the least they have learned well from their parents and don’t miss a beat. So if you’re in the Philly area you must make the stop, you won’t be sorry. But if you can’t make it to this Martial Arts Wonderland, all I can say is a picture is worth a thousand words. Thanks guys for making me feel like family and In my tradition I bow my head with the utmost respect for your accomplishments . For more info on AWMA go to www.AWMA.com

437 Sabol Rd. * Stroudsburg Pa. 18360 * 570 992-3458 Tasekat@epix.net * www.WorldKarateUnion.com

Join us For the 16th Annual WKU Hall of Fame Awards and Banquet New Date June 11th & 12th 2011 At The Chateau Resort at Camel Back