June 2001 mailbag

Dear Mr. Mattson

Hello and how are you doing. Hey Mr. Mattson on the tape of Taiwan do you know who any of those masters are and what systems are being shown. One gentlemen I am interested in knowing who he is and what he performs. He is the short old gentlemen with thinning white hair has glasses and is wearing a suit and he seems to get up the most times do you know who he is?

Mr. Mattson is there any other way to view the article on the Bubishi I don't have adobe. I read somewhere that Mr.Tomoyoses father had been writing a book do you know if that is true I think it was suppose to be about his own research into the arts? Do you know if the Fuzhou Martial Arts association has a web site?

Thank you

All I know is that the Taiwan martial arts Association assembled most of the well-known Chinese practitioners of the time (1964-5) for a demonstration honoring Kanei Uechi's visit to the island. I believe the gentleman in question was featured in one of Robert Smith's books.

Adobe reader is free. Simply download from the web. I've never heard that Tomoyose's father was writing a book on his research or study of Uechi-ryu. His son (my teacher) would have known about it and would have probably helped his father with this book, had there been one. GEM

Dear Mattson,

It was very good to speak to you today. I hope that I will be able to meet you one day. You are one of the most respected Karate pioneers and I was honored to speak to you.

The Hawaii Karate Seinenkai website is at http://www.Seinenkai.com.

There is a link there to subscribe to our infrequent newsletter and our past newsletters are archived. I am using Yahoo Groups for this.

Our museum project is in the materials acquisition phase. With the high land prices in Hawaii, I will delay the site selection and acquisition process for at least 3 years. We will be archiving things first and building up our internet presence. We were very fortunate to obtain Uechi Sensei's book last week.

I wish you the best with you Florida museum. Perhaps one day, our projects can assist each other.

Your excellent book will definitely be (actually already is) a part of our Karate collection.

Respectfully in the art,

Charles ---------------------------

Charles C. Goodin 98-211 Pali Momi Street, Suite 640 Aiea, Hawaii 96701 USA

Hikari Dojo: http://HikariDojo.com member of the Hawaii Karate Seinenkai website: http://www.Seinenkai.com member of the World Matsubayashi-Ryu (Shorin-Ryu) Karate-Do Association website: http://www.Matsubayashi-Ryu.com

e-mail: goodin@lava.net tel: (808) 488-5773 (b) tel: (808) 422-2557 (h) fax: (808) 488-5778

Good to speak with you as well Charles and thanks for all the kind words. If anyone has any martial art items they would like to donate to either museum, please contact Charles or David Berndt. Both museums are 501-s non-profit corporations, which means you can receive a tax credit for your donations. GEM

Mr. Mattson,

Here's the update from Alaska. No one really seemed to be interested until things started warming up here. It's a balmy 50F. So we will start the group next week. I have still been practicing by myself.

I went ahead and bought one of the George Dillman books. It is called Kyusho Jitsu: The Dillman Method of Pressure Point Fighting. After reading this book I have decided to follow the old timeline for Sanchin. This is the one in your book Uechi-Ryu Karate Do. It takes 3 years, but after reading Dillman's book it will be worth it. While doing this I will also continue to learn the other katas and develop the flow moves from the moves in the katas and exercises. I also plan to learn peichurrin and ueseishi.

After reading the Dillman book I realized just how important the Kata are. If you have a copy of the January 2001 issue of Black Belt Magazine, there is an article in there about George Dillman and his method. Oddly enough it is entitled 'The Secret is in the.... KATA!' He goes on to explain how kata were designed to teach 3 levels of information. These are as follows: outsider, insider, and family. The outsider information is just doing the kata. The insider information is which pressure points are hit during the kata and how breaks are done with "blocks".

After reading the article and his book I became extremely interested in making sure my kata performance was accurate. For example, the double palm strike in Sanchin is done with one hand at 12 o'clock and the other at 7:30. I looked in your book at Kanei Uechi and his hands were held at about this position as well. I asked myself, why? Here is my answer, if it is wrong please correct me. The hand at 12 o'clock strikes the xyphoid process and the hand at 7:30 strikes the 11th intercostal rib or possibly the floating rib.

Either way massive internal injury occurs. I started doing this thinking process to the entire Sanchin kata. Even the opening move contains nerve cavity strikes that if done properly will result in the death of your attacker. I share this with you for all the people who believe kata are useless. I knew the kata were important for a reason. Now I know the reason. This now forces me to make a careful study of my movements through each kata so that I hit the vital points correctly. This will also force me to learn acupressure/shiatsu massage to help recover an individual form this attack, along with herbal medicine, and even more of the Uechi-Ryu tradition history.

To this end, I am locating and buying books on White Crane Boxing, Monk Fist or Arhat Boxing, Tiger, Crane, and Dragon boxing. Over the next 3 years I want to try and put together a Bubishi for UechiRyu. I don't know if anyone else would profit from it, but I know it will help to learn and retain the information about this system and be able to use, and maybe one day teach it, effectively.

Thank you,

Chris

Hi, I am interested in some of your videos. I already have the 3 self defense taped about the pressure points, knife, and gun defense. I also have George Mattson doing the katas. I seem to remember a tape that had a class on tape. I am interested in a tape like that for the exercises, aiding motions and other class information. You have some tapes that look like the type that I may be interested in. They are # 17,18A, and 18B. Do these tapes sound like what I am interested in? If I buy all 3 of them, is there a discount as there is with the Jim Maloney tapes?

It seems that there is no one in the Morgantown W.V. area that teaches Uechi-ryu style so I am having to learn from the tapes. I took about a year and a half of Uechi-ryu when I was a teen ager (many years ago) so I still remember a lot of things. With the book and the video tapes I seem to be picking up most of it again. Can you tell me of anyone around W.V. , PA., or MD that teaches? I would be willing to travel to them about once a month or so if they were with in 100 miles of where I live. Thank you for your help. You have always been very helpful in the past. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

Hugh Troyer

I am Dorothy I met you at the Summer Camp this year. I had no idea at all who anyone was at the camp and I am just blown away at all the marvelous people I met and didn't know who I was speaking with. You in particular.

I have about 6 pages left to read in your book. It is a book I will read more than once. There are so many things in your book that have given me insight, understanding, new dedication to my Karate. I am glad you had the courage to write about failing your first 3rd degree black belt test. I have learned so much from that, of course, I haven't internalized it yet. That will take time, I can only tell you if I had not passed my State Boards for nursing the first time I wouldn't be a nurse today. I would have been too humiliated to try again.

When I tested for my Green Belt I was so freaked out Steve had to ask me one question in Japanese because I wasn't getting it when he said it in English. I intend to work on doing my Sanchin like I am being tested and my next test I am going to try and do it like I am NOT being tested. I don't know how that will go but I am going to try it. It was wonderful reading about George Mattson and Bob Campbell and Lawrence Tan, I don't really know who Bob Campbell is.

As soon as I finish reading your book I am going to start it again and go even slower to be able to internalize a lot of what you have written. I am so glad you told me about your book. One thing that greatly relieved my mind was reading "You don't have to be perfect" just work to your best ability. I am now 57 I didn't start learning Karate until Jan.2000 and then I was 56. It was good to read you don't have to be young to study Karate.

Thank you again for telling me of your book and more important thank you for writing it.

Sincerely, Dorothy Reitman

Dear Dorothy:

Thank you for the wonderful letter. The book has never sold well, but I have received about a dozen responses like yours, over the last half dozen years. Yours is one of the best and will keep me high for a week. Two of the others are Steve White's, on the library forum, and David Kahn's, rating the book on Amazon.com.

If you haven't met Bob Campbell, you are in for a real treat. We imagine, when we become karate students, that the highest ranked seniors will all look like some of the people who surround George Mattson, but such people are really very rare, and rarer still are the ones, like David Mott and Bob Campbell, who are practiced in a variety of Zen arts.

I hope that Bob and Larry Tan and David will all be at next year's camp, because there is nothing better than hearing them spill out insights at the Saturday party. Please come find me, and I will introduce you. Thanks again, for the letter.

After reading your recent letter on the "Whats new page" concerning the realities of your karate fighting invincibility after a well focused punch to your chest by a non Uechi practitioner years ago, gave me a chuckle. I too felt that same youthful invincibility till I came up against Sada or Taka at a tournament in the 60s. Those of you who have been around for a while may remember those two extraordinary gentlemen. I'm not sure which one it was but one of them gave me and awful trouncing . And I went back to the Providence dojo with my belt between my legs, learned a valuable lesson and trained much harder. Many of our Uechi black belts did not do very well as I remember back then against the numerous champions that came from Japan. With the exception there was one fight that I observed, those of you who participated in any of George Pisares knock down drag out slug fests in Rhode Island know what I'm talking about, the year I believe was 1967. The only protective gear that we wore back then was a mouthpiece and a groin cup. I can still see his brown belt and black belt women students with their bandaged noses hands and toes and that was before the event started. Heck I was scared stiff of them never mind his male blackbelts.

The match that I observed at Mr. Pisares tournament was between a very verbally cocky Goju Champion from Japan who said, and I quote him, " I will win the tournament because it is a piece of cake and Americans are not good karate fighters". He did well, and then he came up against Walter Mattson who with each reverse punch and side kick literally sent the poor Goju fellow flying out of the ring. He lost the match 3 to 0 and was so humiliated by the loss that he left immediately. He ,I'm sure learned a valuable lesson that day as well as we both did.

Please permit me to change the subject here. I, personally have never been a fan of the foam dipped fighting equipment,but I realise their value as a safety buffer and use them in my own dojo at testings and for insurance reasons. My biggest complaint is that the fighting student considers this as armor and feels that he/she has no need to block anymore. I have other complaints as well but will not mention them here. I don't think that it is a wise idea for all dojos and tournament promoters to return to the spartan like equipment of old, but I do think, judging from my own experience with my students who enjoy jiyu kumite that they should at least every once in a while fight with supervision, to get as close to reality as possible. Other than that we are just playing tag or touch football. It took years for us to evolve and develop to what I call the Uechi fighting technique and it is apparent in our youthful fighters of today. I feel they they are far superior technicians than most of our fighters of the 60s and early 70s.

Attn: Mr. George Matson;

Dear George,

I trust this mail will find you in your best health and prosperous of your Dojo.

I intend to publish E-book soon "Yoki's Karate Errantry in America" in Internet of my experience 36 years ago in Boston.

In the book; full names appear of Matson Academy of Karate, George Matson, Al Ford, Jim Elliott, Seigo-Kan, Seigo Tada and myself, in addition the first name of Tom, Walter, Charly, plus a few people only as I don't know if I caould contact them now.

A few photo's if I may use such as Set Sparing you and me in your tea room on tatami mat, Flying kick demonstrate with you in your Dojo as most of all photo'S I LOST on the earthquake 1995.

I would like to take this opportunity your great help and kindness given to me. The book is very good. Please kindly acknowledge reciept of this mail and agreement to use your full name in the book or if I should delete names.

Sincerely,

Yukiaki Yoki
wnet0425@withnet.ne.jp [e-mail Yoki for ebook information GEM]

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Dear George,

Your quick very nice reply is a great encouragement to me. Thank you very very much. My family very fine. My wife "Mie" and I have a son "Kozo" 25 years old. After the earthquake I started to work at one of the aircraft manufacturing company in Kobe for 5 years as an interpreter, translator and an inspecter. When Boeing absorbed Douglas, my work decreased to a half due to they stopped to produce some Douglas models and I have resigned last year end Oct so this is my turning point again.

I am considering to re-built "Y. Yoki & Co.". Leather export buz were un-competitive then due to yen currency evalue so I have changed to start import finished leather garments instead but domestic market changed to dull and 30 second earthquake took so much from me. Yes I know Pakistan is a good market to deal with.

At moment I am concentrating to upload the book. Am already anxious to have your comments after you read the book. I will be continue the next book "Japanese Karate in Hong Kong".

Re: Karate; 3 years since Mr Seigo passed away but Seigo-kan still exists and I am a sub-chairman of the board for over sea branches. I am considering to re-start teach Karate again as I aware now I am very good in instructing.

I will keep in touch with you from now on. Please do not hesitate if there is anything I can do in Japan to cooperate.

Yoki

Hello,

Below is a couple correspondences with Allen Moulton. As the letter states, I live in New Jersey and would love to find an instructor close to me. I do know that Leyn Burrows and one other instructor is in Northern New Jersey. Although Leyn Burrows is an excellent instructor, the 2 1/2 to 3 hour round trip is not practical for me or my family. I would appreciate any help that you might be able to provide.

Thank you for your help,

Graham Hooper

I'll post your letter Graham. You might also post something in the "Looking for a dojo/instructor" Forum. GEM

George,

Everything is on schedule at present. We have been able to lure two corporate sponsors and this has helped in the finance area as it allowed me to hire a full time project manager.

I believe there will be a lare Uechi Ryu turnout. We need more referees to insure that Uechi Ryu competitors are only judged by Uechi Ryu style judges during the kata competition. If you can get more referees to volunteer it would help.

Thanks for checking in. Please send me your mailing address and I will send you posters and printed material.

I will keep you updated as we continue.

Gambatte

Dan

I have returned from my Okinawa sojourn this past week, the experience was like "going back home"...what a wonderful feeling, the Jundokan is operating under the very capable Iha Koshin Sensei with a very strong board. Unfortunately the address give for Tomoyose Sensei wasn't quite correct...However, he did send his regards and to tell you the Kanji for his address translates to both IRIBARU and NISHIHARA, so I was looking for him in the opposite side of town. Once again thank you for your help and hopefully we'll be able to meet in th near future..
Sincerely,
Robert Young Jundokan Miami

Dear Sensei Mattson, 5-26-01

While viewing your website I noticed 8 pictures of items of interest. The lower right center item was a thick book with a dark blue binding and gold Japanese characters. It seemed to be contained within a white packaging sleeve covered by clear cellophane. Did this book include a directory of Uechi-ryu blackbelts and was it published sometime in the early to mid 1980's? Can you give me information on it and let me know if it's available for purchase? Looking forward to your reply.

All the best, Rick Vogel

Rick: The book in question is highly collectible. Very limited printing and because of legal difficulties among the Uechi family and person who did most of the work writing the book, will probably never be reprinted. Also the cost today would be prohibitive. In the 1970s, the retail price was $100. Today, if you can find a mint conditioned Kihon, you will pay upwards of $3500 for an unsigned book. . . Probably $15000 for a signed edition! GEM

Dear Karate-ka, I am very please to inform you that the first 2 volumes of the long awaited documentary video series on Okinawan Karate originally titled "Ultimate Martial Arts I & II" in their Japanese editions are finally available in English. This production has been 5 years in the making and has received rave review in Japan since first screening September of last year.

Many of you have been visiting our Web site at http://www.okinawakaratedo.com waiting for this announcement; well I'm happy to say it's here.

"Okinawa Karate Vol. I & II" featuring the senior most teachers of this generation. Onaga Yoshimitsu sensei - Shinjinbukan (Shorin-ryu), Senaha Shigetoshi sensei - Ryushokai (Goju-ryu), Shinjo Kiyohide sensei - Kenyukai (Uechi-ryu) Hokama Tetsuhiro - Kenshikai (Goju-ryu / Kobudo)

Special Guests: Toyama Seiko sensei - Zankai (10th Dan Uechi-ryu)

This is a TV quality documentary of 2 x 60 min. tapes and was recently screened in Cannes at the International Documentary Exhibition.

I am very pleased to be able to extend a limited time promotional price of $39.95 per tape. This is a promotional price only valid until the end of June 2001 and is limited to one set of tapes per order.

The tapes are now available to the general public via mail order and on-line at the regular price of $49.95 per tape.

To take advantage of this special offer please make sure you visit http://www.okinawakaratedo.com/video/video%20promo/video.htm our regular web page order form will have the higher price.

Respectfully yours,

Daniel Kogan Shinjinbukan Canada Shorin-ryu Karate

Amazing but true:

Bill Wallace was at our dojo Saturday morning, the same day he was to appear on "Walker".

Great guy, true gentleman. He spoke highly of George-sensei, the Witherall's (Jim works out with Mr. Wallace) and of Uechi-ryu in general.

Wants to do some work with us in the future! Anyone interested in a "Superfoot" seminar at my dojo?

GKhoury

Hello George,

Hope you and Sue are well. Would you please insert the following article on the memorial page. I was present at Mert's testing and his spirit and effort was unmatched by others in the testing. His untimely passing in the dojo was a shock to all who knew him.

Thanks, Steve

Born: October 11,1937 Died: November 9, 2000

Dr. Merton Cochran, discharged honorably from the Marine Corps, serving from 1955-1959. Continuing his education, he graduated in 1973 from the University of Oregon receiving his Ph.D. in clinical psychology. Merton did extensive work with patients suffering from post traumatic stress disorder. He also was a coordinator for the employees assistance program at the Sheridan Wyoming Veterans Administration Hospital. During this time he was the Chief of Psychology Services.

In retirement, at age 59, he began his study of Uechi Ryu Karate Do under Renshi Rokodan, Peggy Hess in Jensen Beach Florida.

His training and study became an important aspect of his life. Mert's interest in the martial arts developed later in life, therefore some things didn't come easily. This lack in natural ability was overcome by his strong will, perseverance, dedication and hard work.

A devoted Uechi Ryu practitioner, he was proud to achieve the rank of Shodan on December 4, 1999 under the watchful eye of Kyoshi Hachidan Jack Summers.

His passing was sudden and unexpected. He is survived by his wife Diane and three children.

He will sadly missed by his family, friends and dojo mates, but his spirit will surely live on.

I would like to introduce myself to you. My present name is Lauren Bretton but my birth name is Lauren Sanborn. my dad was Forrest Sanborn. I found out about your web site through my good friend carol lee David my wife. Carol and I reconnected awhile back we both believe in the energy and alternative ways with healing. Carol wrote to me and gave me this information about your web site and how you have a memorial site for past karate teachers. she also informed me that your interests are with uechi-ryu. I was also informed you had with my dad within the art. I am curious about your connection with him and very excited as well emotional about connecting with you and sending information to you about my dad. What type of information are you looking for?! Please write back and let me know, I would be very happy to share any info. also

I am interested in the summer July Program as well.

Thanks for remembering my Dad.

Peace always within your heart,

Laureen Sanborn Brenton

Hi Lauren: I may have met you many years ago when Carmen DiRameo and I visited your home. Forrest, as you may already know, was a student of mine for many years.

In case you are interested, I have a two hour video taken of your father doing karate. This tape was taken by Carmen, who gave it to me about five years ago. The video was taken during the visit of my teacher, Ryuko Tomoyose and his teacher, Kanei Uechi to Boston.

I have included a photograph of Forrest in our website's "Memorial" section. You can check out this section and contribute any information and/or article about your father that you wish.

I would be very interested in having you participate in our camp this year. Please send me a photo and short biography and seminar/meeting article that I can include in our Camp section.

I mentioned to Carol that our website would like to find a moderator for our "healing arts" section. Let me know if you are interested in helping out with this. GEM

My name is Dean Lowe, I'm a student of Terry Daly's in London. Who i believe you taught some years ago. I joined Terry's club in 1980 when i was 9yrs old with my parents, but unfortunately they stopped training in 1984.I was very lucky to walk into a club with very high standards and such a great style, I say lucky because when you first start you are not aware of the quality of standard.

I was fortunate enough to visit Yugoslavia in 1982,this was a great experience training with some good karateka. I have entered many competitions over the years alongside Terry and Wayne Otto. I Opened my own club 2.5yrs ago this is something i have wanted to do from a very young age, my concern as been that the teaching standards are high like i have been used to. I feel more and more confident, and having Terry at hand for advice is of great help, he as seen some of my students and indicated that their standard is good, which is pleasing.

I have not promoted the club to much but was hoping to get the clubs details onto some of the sites that i regularly go into. If you could help me on this matter it would be much appreciated, if not ,not to worry i just thought i would give it a go. I'm not to clear how all the sites are put together. Many Thanks

Hi Sensei Mattson, Its been too long since I last spoke to you. Hope everything is well.

Running a karate school is a tough job and after 7 years of it, I decided to close my school and accept a position with the University of Waterloo teaching karate for them. We have replaced Shotokan as the style of karate taught there. The Shotokan teacher was a friend of mine from Halifax and always said that if he had to start over it would be Uechi. So he is now a student of Uechi-Ryu at the University.

Its nice not to worry about rent, insurance, utilities and advertising. All I have to do is what I enjoy. Teaching others Uechi-Ryu. I get 35-55 students per term.

Now that students are coming back for the second term, they are asking for reference material. There is no other book I would recommend to them than yours. Could you please let me know what my price would be on some Uechi books. I can foresee a steady demand for them here at the University. I would like to offer them for sale to all the classes. I have also been streaming them towards your site for information on Uechi-Ryu.

I will look forward to hearing from you.

Say hello to Susan for me and I wish you and your family the best of health and happiness.

Best Regards

Marco DiGiosia

Hi sensei:

Just wanted to follow up after what was obviously our most successful event to date. I am proud to have played a small part in the development of the Uechi Championships, but not proud of my performance on that day.

I hope I did not let you, Van-sensei, or anyone else down in failing to bring us home "the Gold". As I have mentioned in the past, it has been extremely challenging to serve two masters as the dojo here continues to grow and grow. Still, I shouldn't make excuses. I was not at my best and I lost to a better man.

Thanks in advance.

Gary (Khoury)

Winning a tournament is fun. You should know. . . since you have been number one for so long! The competition this year was awesome and I realize with your workload, training for it properly was difficult. You didn't have anything to prove and those of us who watched your fights this year were privileged to see the very best techniques, control and sportsmanship. We are indeed proud of you and all the other competitors. Thanks for making the Uechi Championship one of the best tournaments in the world. GEM

Just got back from my father-in law's funeral. Haven't had a chance to do anything tournament related since Sunday. I am really exhausted and will start in on it after I sleep for a day. I'll have to dig thru a truckful of stuff and locate the uechi results. ( that's the norm). As soon as I find them, I will get them to you. Haven't done anything yet. Don't even know how many competitors entered in the New England Open and the uechi event. Don't worry, I'll get to it shortly and figure out everything. Did you hear anything about a female black belt entering the men's black belt fighting division and knocking someone out? Dave Kahn emailed me that there was some sort of mention of it on the forum. Anyway, talk to you soon. I'm going to sleep. Regards Bap (Richard Baptista)

Everything has been received and posted Bap. Thanks for all your help and giving the Uechi community a place to conduct our annual Championships. Knockout by a woman???? Hmmmmmm GEM

Maria wanted me to drop you a line and thank you for your quick intercession Saturday on her behalf and helping her compete in the men's division. I am sure you know she was not trying to denigrate the men or make any kind of feminist statement. It's just that she had trained hard and traveled so far, she merely wanted some more ring time and experience. Anyone who saw her face when she knocked out Mark Pesant realized she was truly sorry. I must admit to being somewhat vexed by the condition that Maria must forfeit her women's championship title in order to continue fighting.

To me she exhibited more championship skill and spirit than I have seen in previous tournaments. However in reflecting on our litigious and politically correct times, I realized that this decision was really genius. For if you are to allow a woman to fight in the men's division - you must allow the men to fight in the women's division. But by using the standard you set for Maria, the men would have to qualify first and any "Andy Kaufman wannabes" would first have to win the men's title. So clever! Thanks for a really great and memorable time! Sincerely,

Dear Sir,

Just for sake of correct information regarding results on Uechy Championship 2001 posted on your web-site I did find that my name - even so difficult for pronunciation do not mention to wright down - is not mentioned there even as a wrong one.

My name is Zvjezdan Vranjes and if results mentioned in your report are from event which took place on May18, 2001 in Marlborough then I think that you just missed the name of the person who won championship in Black belt division "A" - and this is me. Mr. Misha Ivanov have lost in the the first fight ( from me ) and Mr John McNeil ( the big friend of mine and from the same Dojo) lost in the final fight in Royal Plaza Hotel.

Hope it helps

Sincerely yours Zvjezdan Vranjes

Thanks for the corrected information Sir. The tournament results have been updated. GEM

Dear George,

GREAT GREAT GREAT!!! to learn "George Matson" is going to be the first consumer of my book It's such a inspire after quite sometime. Thank You Thank You George!!!

You have such a good memory. I remember very little of Charley "Red Ribbon", no I did not put it in my book. How is he? Hope he has many kids...

Now I am already very anxious to have your comments after you read my book.

Best Regards Yoki

Yes, I've read your ebook and enjoyed it immensely. I can't believe you remembered so much about those early days of the Mattson Academy. If anyone is interested in Yoki's early experiences in America, please get his ebook. GEM

Mr. Mattson- I am a uechi-ryu practitioner in El Sobrante, California. I have been hearing about a "World Okinawa Karate Championship" which is supposed to take place in Atlanta, August 8-11. However, I am finding it very difficult to find more information about the logistics of this event. As you are probably more informed than I, (and about 1000 miles closer to Atlanta) perhaps you can point me in the right direction. Any information you can give me would be most appreciated. I realize you are very busy and hope to hear from you. Respectfully, -
Daniel Abbott mr_ebola@hotmail.com

Watch the Forums and Whats New for current information and links to the tournament site. GEM

dear Mr.Mattson, I was interested in going to the 2001 camp this summer. Will you please forward the shecdule of this event to me when available.

Thanks, Willy Tomlinson

Please watch the "Fest" Site for continued updates. Lots of great teachers coming this year again. Hope you can join us. GEM

Hello sensei Matson, Peter Verovsek here. I just have a few questions about the Summer Camp. I am planning on attending, and of course that is quite a trip for me. I have been checking the web site, but have found no details on prices and the Applications link still had the 2000 application on it. I was just wondering if you could pass along some of the updated information to me. Thanks a lot and I hope the tournament goes well this year. All the best to everyone,

Peter Verovsek

All links have been updated. Thanks for bring this to my attention. Looking forward to seeing you in July. GEM

Sensei Mattson,
my name is Tom Whelan, I am a student of Sensei Motts at Cold Mountain Dojo in Toronto. I am planning to attend this years summer camp but do to work obligations I am unable to travel with the others and I may be flying in Thursday evening. Can you offer any advice on methods of transportation from the Boston airport to Buzzards Bay. I have not been down that way before so I have no idea of the proximity of the camp to the airport. I met you at Cold Mountain Dojo when you were there a couple of years back and look forward to meeting you again this summer. Thanks very much for any advice you may be able to offer.

Please post your letter in the Forums. Hopefully someone can pick you up Thursday night at the airport. Quite a few people are coming in Thursday and I'm sure a couple will be renting a car and driving to camp. If you contribute to the expenses, I'm sure someone will share their ride with you. GEM

Subject: yippee! this student of budo is on-line

Dearest George and Susan, it gave me goosebumps not only to see that Nebraska was "well represented" at Summer Camp 2000, (though I'm only so very sorry I couldn't be part of that head count) but also to see again how Chinese influence is being well considered a part of Uechi-Ryu Karate Do. Your sentiments about whether or not I would attend were heartfelt, thank you both!! I also enjoyed Sensei Canna's word to the wise about "no excuses for not attending." I'm not sure how much my beloved Sensei, Dave Lamb told you about what my new adventure entails, though it has also begun to grow into more as we speak. Let me begin by stating that I would not be where I am today without Dave Lamb and you both. I began with a tiny interest in martial arts in general and thank goodness I followed my interest which led me to Dave Lamb. I also had a general interest in massage which only grew as my teacher fortunately put emphasis on the healing AND the hurting aspects of martial arts. Not to leave short that the martial arts has emphasis in the hurting aspect for the sole purpose of inflicting pain, "Manners: be humble respectful and courteous above all", is also something I can say off the top of my martial arts in-training-mind. As well not to over look the inherent healing aspects of Uechi-ryu, brilliant!!!! We could not probably give enough homage to Zhou Zi He for healing influence, if I'm not mistaken. At any rate, I've been looking at the International Institute of Chinese Medicine for about two years and couldn't really decide between their Acupuncture program and/or their Tui Na (Chinese massage) program. I'm still not to sure, but since there is so much crossover in the foundation and theory, I don't have to make a decision right now. simply put, every day in school gets more exciting, and I've only had 1 week of school. I do know it's going to be a challenge, but not unmanageable. An aside, I asked one of my teachers, whether or not she thought that the same points that heal also hurt, she gave me such a look, as if one she doesn't know me well enough or what I might do if I had such secrets,. Of course I explained I studied martial arts, she still wasn't comfortable just curious. In short I am excited at the possibility that I may someday have the opportunity to give back to the Uechi system (family).

Thank You for the info on potential Uechi schools here in Albuquerque I'm not sure if they can top Dave, no offense to Uechi-ryu Karate Do, or to you GEM.

Not enough Thanks, not all the tea in China, for all that you, George and Susan have done for me

sending good positive energy your way,
Amy T. McAndrews, of the Nebraska chapter Uechi-ryu

Thanks for your most welcomed letter Amy. We all missed you at camp and look forward to your next visit. I am also very excited to hear that you are getting deeper involved with the healing aspect of our art. This indeed, is a much misunderstood and not appreciated part of what we do. We all look forward to learning more from you at future camps and events.

Stay well and keep in touch, GEM

I was admiring your web-site and I wanted to say "FANTASTIC!". I was under the training of Sensei Ahti Kaend, unfortunately I had to leave unannounced due to my career. Now that I am back in California I am still a long distance from his dojo, are there any other dojos in Los Angeles, Whittier area of California. I was bamboozled into a Kempo style of Karate which only wanted my hard earned money and was unhappy. I have tried calling and emailing Sensei Kaend, but have been unsuccessful. Can you help me, I will very much appreciate it.

Hector Galvan

Don't know how recent your site is but I noticed that you have a photo of Mike Deluty who I read passed away several years ago.

I met Mike on April 25, 1969 the day I joined the Institute of Okinawan Karate at 99 State Street Boston. I was a chubby 14 year old from Charlestown in need of self defense lessons. Though Mike was not a great deal older than me he semed almost like a father to me. Mike was very sympathetic and encouraging to his students and seemed incredibly powerful. Mike used to talk to me about lifting weights and I know that he had done his fair share of lifting. I remember watching his moves and how powerfully he did them.

From 1969 to 1975 or so I took karate with Mike and his colleague Moto Yamakura another tremendous instructor. I never really stuck with Karate long enough to go beyond a green belt and to this day I regret my lack of discipline. I know that Mike was last living in Belmont before he passed away. I am very interested in any other info you may come across regarding Mike or Moto Yamakura if you know of him. Mike was a great influence on my life as a teen.

Dave Flanagan

Moto is currently teaching in the MidWest. You can find his website by doing a search using his name. GEM

Hi

My name is Lee Price. I currently train with Terry Daily, in East London, England. I have been training with Terry for 10 yrs, and I am currently a 2nd Dan. I am interested in gathering information about the history of Uechi Ryu - Karate. Would you be able to send me any information - either by post or email (attachment).
I look forward to your reply.

Regards

Lee Price

All kinds of information on the Forums. If you have any specific questions, that is the place to ask them. GEM

I thought that I would wait a few days before thanking you personally for the chance to help out at your championships. As usual, we all had a great time. The competitors certainly enjoyed the opportunity to get in the rings with different faces and the officials to practice with on the job training. We also had the chance to party into the wee hours with some of the locals. If there are any questions about rules that your people have tell them to fell free to contact me at any time.I was watching some of the Kata events and also some of the same divisions on tape when I returned home.

I have judged allot of different styles in many parts of the world but I just can"t tell what was going on with most of the scoring. It seems to this non Uechi practitioner that they were Personality based instead of Criteria based scoring. This is not a criticism just an observation. I took the time to study the tapes because of the negative comments I heard from so many of the Kata competitors. Especially from those that competed on Saturday , as well as those who will not compete any more.

This from Kyu"s and Dan ranks. If there is anything we can do to help get the numbers back up there , let me know. A one day Seminar on Criteria based scoring would be a great start to renewing confidence in Uechi Officials. Your organization has so much talent and experience it is a shame not to build from within. I hope these few comments do not offend anyone, it certainly is not my intention. Every time I open my mouth I seem to get someone pissed off....Ron Fagan

I head to Toronto today, I will give O-Sensei your regards..R

Always good to hear from you and although Uechi students complain a lot, they do listen and learn. We are making big headway in our tournament and will continue to improve with people like you helping out. We do need more instruction in the rules and I hope you and your people will be with us again at camp to provide more lessons! GEM

Dear Sensei Mattson,

My name is Sandy Cameron and I was one of the Judges that went down to the Tournament with Sensei Fagan this past weekend (I was the guy with all the white hair). We arrived home safely last evening after an 11 hour drive (approx 1000 km).

I had such a grand time on the weekend I felt compelled to write to you and express my gratitude and appreciation for your invitation to us to participate. I met several of your students and collegues during the weekend and was impressed with their friendliness and generosity. They are a fine bunch of men and true karate-ka. The only regret I have is that I was not able to meet you personally. I have heard so many good things about you from Sensei Fagan over the years (I have been in his dojo now for close to 20 years) that I was hoping to meet you. Hopefully that opportunity will come again. I didn't know until later in the night on Saturday that it was you we were talking to at Rocco's when we were all waiting at the bar (bemoaning the fact there was only two servers).

I thought the Tournament was very well conducted and I was impressed with the courage, sportsmanship and spirit of Karate-doh that was displayed by all the competitors. I hope the competitors were satisfied with the officiating of the WKF Rules. I'm not naive enough to think there will be 100% satisfaction but I hope they will know that our only concern was for the safety of the competitors and that the best fighter that day was the winner. As far as I know the only injury (beyond the usual bumps and bruises) was a broken nose, and even that became the topic of joking around later. One of the guys from Nova Scotia had his nose broken by one of the Brits and they had a great time kibutzing about that for the rest of the day. I think the victim was even glad about it as he got a couple of beers paid for by the Brit perpetrator.

This morning I registered in the "forum" on your Web Page. In case you see something from the "silverfox" you'll know it's me. I read many postings last night concerning the WKF Rules and I may throw my two cents worth in from time to time.

Once again Sensei, thank you very much for inviting us. I know from all the comment from the Canadian contingent that everyone of us had a wonderful time and we appreciate your kindness and generousity.

Best regards, Sandy Cameron

Hello Sir, I would like to obtain any information about a person who claims to have won the CA state championships between the years of 1980-1996 I am not sure which year but it is in between those years for the art of Taekwondo. I ask this to prove a person who speaks of this daily true or not true. I ask this because you seem as though you might know where to get this information. The name is Edward P. Callahan.

Thank you for your time,

Jeff

Old Friends!

Dear George:

Just a note to say hello.

It has been much too long since I have contacted you and gone to class. I still keep up with my kata on my own and stay in reasonably good shape.

I enjoy the website very much, as it keeps me "in touch" with something that is still very much a part of my life.

I still travel to Japan on a fairly regular basis, and it was very helpful to read the letter from Paul Sweeney about the Dojo in Tokyo. I will contact Paul before my next trip there.

The summer camp events and participants look outstanding. Some of the names bring back great memories. Is it possible to attend on a daily basis, as I cannot make the commitment for the entire event?

Say hello to Susan for me.

Best regards,

Justin Testa

Hello I would like to comment on how much I enjoyed your site, it was great. I study Goju Ryu Karate do and Kobudo. I was wondering if you know the meaning of the kata Nibiryu Ryu No Jo. If so could you please e-mail it to me.

Thank you very much for your time

I haven't a clue Andrew. But if you post your question on our Forums, I'm sure you will get the information you are looking for. GEM

Subject: Bad Martial Artist - discussion

I don't know if you remember me. I had sent you E-mail about having an abusive instructor and you hooked me up with one of your students . . . ., I was just curious about the discussion "Bad Martial Artist" only one person responded besides myself, I was Tiger as I am sure you realized.

What happens to it does that discussion stay where it's at for anyone to view as an Archive, do you ever add to them so they come up as new discussions again so people will pay attention to them?

I was really surprised that no one took an interest in it. What do you think? I think people should be aware..........Please respond. Thanks . . . .

I was also surprised that so few people took an interest in what should have been an explosive topic. Perhaps victims are ashamed that they were fleeced or abused and prefer to just forget about it. Of course, this is what the bad guys count on. . . so they can continue to operate. GEM

i am suprised to find no mention of sensei perkins of north Carolina on your web site. to my knowledge he is one of the top practicers of your style in this country. if i am wrong please let me know.
thank you
gary p. greenbush

I get quite a few email from people who are amazed that I don't know about them or someone they feel I should know. Unless people contact me, I don't have time to search them out. I don't post teacher's names or information unless they ask me. Some teachers don't wish the publicity. GEM

How are you doing Sir, i'm a former student of Sensei Richard Lippner who was a student of Sensei Klein up in MI...well, my problem is i want to get back on training, but i'm in Missouri right now and i can't find any Dojo's around...i'm in Whiteman AFB, which is close to Warrensburg and Sedalia. By any chance do you have a list of dojo's that are close by this locations? i appreciate you reading my email.

Thank you!

Anderson Souza; Former uechi-ryu student

Look up Bruce Hirabayashi in the Instructor's link. If he isn't close enough to you, he may know of a good teacher who is. GEM

Hello. My name is Ken Green. I studied under John Zachistal & Nancy Gavenda while living in MA. I moved to CT and for years I have been looking for a Uechi dojo closer to me than Hartford. It was by luck that I talked with Kevin Meisner and he informed me of a dojo in Colchester. I can not find a valid phone number for Jon Spencer. Can you please direct me. I would appreciate any guidance you may offer. Sincerely,

Kenneth Green

Mr. Mattson;

My son started Uechi Ryu about nine months ago, and he absolutely loves it!! I would love to help him at home as he is just turning seven but I really cannot remember all the different steps. I was wondering if there was a book or a guide that I could purchase describing the steps, and movements...E.g eight form and twenty six form have me confused so we really cannot practice, but I know if I could be more help to him he would really excel in Karate. If there is anything at all you could suggest I read, I would great appreciate it.

Sonya MacIsaac Elmsdale, Nova Scotia

Check out our Bookstore. http://karateworld.safeshopper.com/

Uechi-ryu Karate Do has all the basics, including the 8 form. also some good video courses for beginners there.

Good luck and stay in touch. GEM

Hi George;

I sent you an e-mail some time ago wondering about a book that I could purchase to help my son at home with Karate. After much searching I have actually found a store in my area that sells your books. Uechi-ryu Karate Do is on backorder but I am anxiously awaiting its arrival. My son and I went to a Karate tournament on Saturday, our first one, and its amazing to watch the confidence, and respect the children have because of Karate. I am seriously considering joining as well. I attend the classes to watch my son, however I am sure at an adult level there is more of an incorporation and understanding of mind, body and spirit which I am definitely interested in...Thank You so much for your prompt response to my e-mail, and Take Care.

Sincerely, Sonya MacIsaac

Dear Sir, I soon will be testing for my black belt and I'm required to answer questions regarding Uechiru. My question to you is who was Master Uechi's instructor ? Your book says ( Chou Tzu-ho) was Kanbuns teacher in China. My Sensai tells me it's someone else totally different. I'm not sure of the spelling but he pronounces it( Sheshewa). Could you please share with me the correct name and spelling of this Master Uechi's instructor. [The Japanese pronunciation of the characters is Shushiwa GEM]

One other question, why would I be required to perform Okikukai in my black belt test instead of Dan kumite ? I'm getting the feeling that somewhere in the past certain people changed the testing format slightly. Is there any truth to this? [Best person to ask these questions to is your instructor. GEM]

What is the difference between Uechiryu and Shoheiryu ? Can you share this truth with me ? I have the need to understand the facts. Your help and insight is greatly appreciated.

Shoheiryu is just another name for Uechi-ryu Scott. Although some dojo do some prearranged drills differently, everything is exactly the same. GEM

Dear Sensei Mattson,

Thank you very much for allowing me to participate in the workout this weekend. I really enjoyed it.

You said that you might be able to dig up some of the studies you did, and also be able to give me Dr. Fein's contact information. I think it would be really great to be able to realize a program that will work for autistic children, not just to help them, but also to make the public more aware of what the karate can do, and how it can actually change these kids (as well as anyone's) lives.

Again, thank you for having me, and if you're ever in our Maine neck of the woods, please feel free to come by and visit.

Take care,

Jessica

You are always welcomed at the "Hut" Jessica. Good luck with your work and studies. GEM

Hi Sensei George, Susann and Tia

best greetings from the Sunshine-State Bavaria. The weather is nice and all of us hope, that the Uechi-Worldchampions will be a great success. We hope.... sometimes to send a German team too. Please say the best wishes to all members of the competition from the German Uechi-students.

Give Susann a big hug!

Take care

Alois and Beatrice

Hi George, I really like the tapes so far. I have gone through 2 of them out of the 5. Have you had any luck finding anyone in the Fairmont or Morgantown W.V. area that can teach Uechi-ryu. I would be willing to travel once a month if it was with in a hundred miles or so. I am hoping that you can recommend someone. Thanks a lot. I look forward to hearing from you again. Hugh

More Old Friends!

HI, Came across you whilst surfing the net on my steam driven computer. I guess the last owner was noah. You will not remeber me, used to train with H Benfield in liverpool had a small group in Prescot then,a lots happened since then,getting old and sort of clapped out, although last heard Harry is still at it,still do a bit on my own though just for the exercise,to busy rebuilding my life since the wife died,but your teachings have helped me to over come many obstacles,still remember those day,s back in 75.. best wishs and god bless, Bob Mercer.

Hi Bob:

Good to hear from you again after such a long time. I do indeed remember you. . .

Stay in touch. Drop into the Forums and say hello to the gang. GEM

Dear sr. I'm writing to you to ask you information which it's difficult for me to find. I would be realy thankful if you could help me. I would like to know dojo's address in wakayama pref. of UECHI RYU. I could find some more information
Sr. Pere
Teacher martial arts.

I was an Ikkyu in Uechi-ryu studying under Sensei Robert Keith in Fort Lauderdale Florida before moving to New York City five years ago. For many years now I have wanted to train in karate again but there does not seem to be ANY Uechi-ryu practitioners or dojos anywhere near the city. At least, I can�t find any. I once came across a passing Internet reference to a Manhattan Uechi-Ryu club but spents weeks searching for it to no avail. I would greatly appreciate any help you could give me in putting me in touch with other Uechi-ryu practitioners in the Manhattan area. I deeply miss my karate practice and long to study again. Also I wonder if you have any advice on solitary practice. It has been a long while now so I really only clearly remember Sanshin kata, but I�m sure with the proper books or tapes I might be able to at least practice my katas on my own.

Are there any books or tapes that you recommend to help refresh my mind so that I can begin solitary kata practice? What about seminars? Are there any intensive training opportunities in the near future that I could attend to help bring me back into practice. I would so greatly appreciate any help you could give me. Domo arigato gozaimasu!

Best Regards,

Lance Laytner

I've enclosed Dave Finkelstein's telephone number. He runs a great club in NYC. Check the Uechi store for all kinds of great books and videos. The "Overview" tape is a recommended way review all the Uechi kata and drills. GEM

Dear Friends & Colleagues:

I'm currently writing a comprehensive reference book about Jackie Chan and I'm looking for non-movie photos to fill out the book. I'm inquiring to see if any of you have taken personal pictures with Jackie over the years that you personally own and could let me borrow to use in my book. It doesn't matter if your pictures are of the "grip and grin" (handshake and smile) variety, but they must be focused clearly and of good quality for reproduction purposes.

I have to deliver the completed manuscript and photos by the end of June so I will need to receive your photos no later than the beginning of June. I will, of course, return all your photos safely and securely.

Please let me know if you can help. You can e-mail or, if need be, call me at my girlfriend's: (724) 733-5978.

Many thanks for your kind consideration.
John Corcoran

Mr Mattson,

About 20 years ago, I studied at your dojo in Boston (1981). Anyway, I had to move back to Texas and was not able to complete my study. I achieved gokyu before I left. Anyway, I would like to start again. I now live in Colorado Springs and was wondering if Uechi has made it way here yet. Thanks for your time.

Rick Powelson

George, This story may have so relevance to you organization. It's big news locally. I've read your discussions concerning a person's decision whether or not to use deadly force. Such a shame when good people are victims of senseless violence.

Published Tuesday, May 1, 2001

Shooting victim may have been caught in street fight

Associated Press SEATTLE -- Gunshots that killed a Minneapolis man and wounded a tae kwon do teammate may have been aimed at a man who seemed to be hiding behind the car in which they were riding, the driver says.

No arrests have been made in the shooting death of Mark Andrew Acaley, 25, a Yale University graduate and stockbroker who died of a gunshot wound to the torso, or the wounding of James Franklin, 32, who was hit in the leg early Sunday.

More than a dozen bullets were fired at the Maple Grove, Minn., tae kwon do team's rented Ford Excursion at a stop sign in the International District, where the group was looking for a place to get some early morning food.

The team was in the area for a martial arts competition in Bellevue and had just left Aristocrats, a nightclub.

There were no taunts, obscene gestures or other provocation before the shooting, Police Officer Clem Benton said. "For no reason, a guy sitting on the corner opens fire," Benton said. He described Acaley, the oldestof four children of Dave and Sue Acaley, of Stevens Point, Wis., as "a truly innocent victim."

In Lee, the driver of the sport utility vehicle, said Monday the group may have unwittingly become caught in the middle of some other fight. Acaley was seated beside him in the front passenger seat.

Lee said he saw a young man throw his hands up in the air, strutting and shouting. Shortly before the shots were fired, he added, he noticed a teen-ager or young man in his driver's-side mirror crouching or hiding behind the car.

The person may have been the target of the gunman, he said.

Police were searching for a man in his 20s with spiked hair and a semiautomatic handgun, Officer Pam McCammon said. She said he had been standing on the street with a group of men and apparently left in a green Honda Accord or similar vehicle.

Tournament sponsor Tuoi Le, who operates a tae kwon do center in Woodinville, said he had raised $5,000 from other Korean martial arts groups for a reward fund to help catch the killer.

"I don't think anyone feels safe now," Le said. "Why would anyone (tourists) want to fly in here now? You can't have tourists going downtown and getting shot.

"I've lived here all my life, but I'm feeling embarrassed for the city."

� Copyright 2001 Star Tribune. All rights reserved. There's more information available on this incident at: http://www.STARTRIBUNE.COM/ Search using: Mark Andrew Acaley

All is well here. Much flooding in Hasting but the waters are finally receding. Hope all is good with your family.

Regards, Thomas J. Radke

Research Info Wanted!

To whom it may concern, I'm am not a karate like person, but I do need your assistance. I'm am a student in Scotland in the middle of her Secondary career and in my Geography class we were set a task to do a full account project on a country of our choice. As it happens, I chose China. This project has to contain a number of subjects, one of which is Sport. I don't really know anything about karate and was wondering if you could tell me whether Karate originated from China or Japan. Please try to e-mail me on kim.keltie@lineone.net Please help!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yours Sincerely A desperate student in need! Kim Keltie

Hi Kim: Good luck with your Geography class. There is lots of information on the martial arts that can be found on the Internet. Karate, as a word, originated in Japan. It means "empty hands". The art/sport/fighting system from which karate developed, began in China.

An interesting letter regarding the Indian Monk who is often credited with bringing a weaponless fighting system to China can be found in the April Mailbag on my website.

If you need any specific questions answered, you might post to one of our forums. We have lots of bright moderators who are very willing to help out.

Stay in touch, GEM

Hi Sensei,

I hope all is well with you Sensei, I have a question for you and I am sure you can help me with this. Over the years I have seen several Uechi-ryu stylist breaking ball bats with their shins and forearms. I also saw this in Okinawa as the Uechi-ryu and Goju-ryu stylist demonstrated in 1997. After training with Yamamoto Sensei of Yoshukai many years ago, he told me that the body is only as strong as the weakest part and that I should condition not only my hands and feet, but my shins, forearms, fingers and toes as well. Having fought many full contact matches with and without pads (I was the heavyweight kicking boxing champion of Kentucky for 8 years), I fully understand the importance of conditioning the extremities. I have been conditioning these body parts for at least 15 years now and consequently I can easily break several 2x2's together without any damage or pain as well as breaking a couple of boards with the big toe only. I was wondering, what type of bats are used for breaking. Is there a particular brand and/or type (baseball or softball). Someone told me that sometimes the round part of the bat handle is sanded slightly to create a more flat surface as opposed to a more rounded surface. I would appreciate your assistance in this. Thank you. Jim Davenport

I know that quite a few Uechi practitioners do these breaks. Anyone help out here?? GEM

Subject: aches and pains

At a nursing home in Naples, Florida, a group of senior citizens were sitting around talking about their ailments: "My arms are so weak I can hardly lift this cup of coffee," said one.

"Yes, I know. My cataracts are so bad I can't even see my coffee," replied another.

"I can't turn my head because of the arthritis in my neck," said a third, to

which several nodded in agreement.

"My blood pressure pills make me dizzy,"-another went on. "I guess that's the price we pay for getting old," winced an old man as he slowly shook his head.

Then there was short moment of silence. "Well, it's not all that bad," said one woman cheerfully. "Thank God we can all still drive."

Dear George;

Now that I have a friend to translate for me, and I don't depend on the translator of Altavista, I am going to explain my idea in details.

I think that Saturday night during the camp, it would be positive that the organization IUKF organized each year the "Worldwide IUKF Championship" and that this championship would be exclusively for brown belts and danes (individually, not in teams), that they would compete in kata and kumite, only for affiliates of IUKF.

This way every year we would have a world champ of kata and a champ of kumite. To these two champs the organization could give prizes, sending them to a large international event (for example to the great championship in Okinawa).

I propose that it be during the camp because for the afiliates of foriegn countries (outside North America) we could travel taking advantage of the camp and the tournament at the same time, without having to pay to travel twice.

We are willing to participate each year. Also Canada, Bermuda, England, and maybe Germany aside from Argentina could do it.

I believe that this would help the other worldwide entities of karate to look at us in a better way and I believe that more people would want to participate in the camp knowing that a world championship would take place there.

It would be excellent to start in 2001.

It would be positive, for it would give the opportunity to our competitors,(IUKF), to have experience in the new WKF rules, which would be the ones we would use for this competition.

This is my thought, surely improvable. Maybe you have your own opinion. I would like to know what you think about it.

Of course I propose the idea, together with my willingness to work with it, with the competitive point of view, since it would carry combatants to participate in this event. Also I would be willing to provide my experience of referee WKF since I have participated personally refereeing in many tournaments in Argentina with these rules.

Sincerely

Carlos

Dear Sensei Mattson:

I am a former Uechi Ryu student. I was originally taught in Nova Scotia by Sensei Killen and then Sensei MacDougall. Unfortunately my Uechi Ryu training has been put on hold for several years now because I had been living in parts of Canada that did not have a Uechi Ryu school. Currently I am living in Northern British Columbia and the nearest school is a two/three day drive. I will be moving to Montreal this summer and I had hoped to reestablish my training in Uechi Ryu. I have checked the Dojo list on your website and did not find a listing for Montreal. I was hoping you may be able to give me some direction. Perhaps you know of some people in the Montreal area who may be interested in setting up a Dojo or have some suggestions as to how I can get involved with Uechi Ryu while in Montreal.

Sincerely, David MacKeigan

Good to see you interested in resuming your training Dave. I suggest you post a message in the "looking for teacher/dojo" Forum. I can also post your letter in the May mailbag. What rank are you?

If you are a black belt, I'll list your name in our "Instructor" section. This is a good way to find fellow Uechi practitioners.GEM

Subject: Uechi-Ryu requirements

Sensei Mattson, In your book( Uechi-Ryu Karate-Do ) the promotional chart indicates time in grade between rank, how many classes per week are these times based on? Thank you for your time, Respectfully Tom Giles Kalamazoo, Mi.

The time and time in grade used for the book requires 500 hours of instruction to Shodan. How this is broken up between the different ranks is up to the teacher. In the Black Belt Test Guide (Peabody), the rank standards were modified to equal the standards used on Okinawa. GEM

In looking through web sites regarding breathing techniques, I found one on sanchin. I am a 6th dan judo with 38 years training. I also have and do practice other martial arts. In the 60's when I was in the Marine Corps, I spent a few months in Okinawa and did a little karate training and tried to learn sanchin. My problem is, and maybe you can offer some advice, for nearly 6 years I have had a breathing problem. There is nothing physically wrong with me according to several doctors. I seem to have panic attacks during somewhat severe workouts and feel that I can't get my breath. Because of this I have also become somewhat claustrophobic. Last week I was unable to put on headgear to practice kendo. I am trying to work through this in my mind, but I think I need to learn how to breathe properly agian. Any suggestions. Michael Royse

Sensei:

My name is Shihan Jerry C. Piddington I have studied Karatedo for 35 years. I have practiced Sanchin Kata and exercise all during this time. Each student I have taught has also practiced ibuki breathing. I feel it is a functional part of training in the Martial Art. Of course all things in moderation...However the need to overdo this exercise can be damaging to the individual. Let us not forget that the movements of Karatedo are of great benefit to the students and we as teachers must determine the value of the exercise we give to our students. Because a specific exercise can hurt us in not a logical reason to never do the exercise...Understanding and Education of these exercises should be our first concern and then the application to the needs of the specific student. Thank you Sensei for allowing me to speak of this subject with respect.

�A simple conversation with a wise man is more valuable than reading 100 books�-- Chinese saying

Dear George,

The seminar you led in Chicago was more valuable to me than 100 hours of arduous training. The seminar really helped me come to grip with a number of issues I have always wrestled with. As you know I started my uechi training in 1983 in Boston, and at the time I fell in love with uechi, simply because I had a great teacher. Since that time I attended, on and off, several uechi schools in different states. Although, I have had long exposure to uechi I have never made it to black belt level. In the mid 1990 I began studying Yang style Taichi. At first I could not reconcile the differences between Taichi and its emphasis on relaxation, yielding, and uechi with its emphasis on dynamic tension, and for a while I felt that my uechi training was a waist, however, as I progressed in my understanding of Taichi, I began to see that uechi is not very much different from Taichi, particularly, the way you teach uechi, with emphasis on yielding, correct posture, and relaxed movements.

Thank you so much for the knowledge you shared with us, and for your time. It was really awesome seeing my first, last, and only uechi teacher after so many years.

Best regards,

Jim Melki

Dear Sensei Mattson

Thank you for the information . I have to get the tapes changed to VHS/PAL format when they arrive and this is quite costly as well.

Just to let you know a little bit about myself, I am 29 Y/O and I live in a small town called Paisley, just ten miles west of Glasgow, Scotland (Gt Britain). I am a Shotokan practitioner (12 years) but I am interested in the evolution and history of all karate styles. To say that I am interested in Uechi karate would be the understatement of the millennium, I have fallen hook, line and sinker for this beautiful, dynamic style of karate. Watching Kanei Sensei, Seiko Toyama Sensei, Seiyu, Kiyohide and Narahiro Shinjo Sensei, yourself and Alan Dollar Sensei, Tsutomu Nakahodo Sensei to name only a few is inspirational to say the least. I am really desperate to get my hands on the Wakayama tape for historical reasons and I will be posting some questions to Glasheen Sensei once I have seen it.

I have amassed quite a collection of books, videos and magazine articles from various sources about Uechi-Ryu, as well as being a regular visitor to your on-line magazine and a member of Patrick McCarthys International Ryu Kyu Research Society. All of this only whetted my appetite for more and I contacted Sensei Dave Scott in Liverpool, England about training with him. Unfortunately Sensei Scott is quite some drive from where I live so he put me in touch with his friend Sensei Harry Cook (a well known karate historian and instructor) who lives a bit closer. This was in February this year, but the more I trained with Sensei Cook the more I wanted to make the long drive to Liverpool and train with Sensei Scott. Just to let you know that I phoned Sensei Scott tonight but unfortunately he is busy until next week. He put me in contact with Sensei Steve McNally of the Liverpool dojo and as I find myself with Thursday and Friday off work this week I will give you three guesses where I am going (and the first two do not count).

I would like to thank you Sensei Mattson, your videos, books and articles (particularly my own personnel favorite in Bugeisha: The Evolution of Traditional Karate) are never far from hand when I am researching karate in general. I will give you a quick e-mail later on in the week to let you know how I get on. (it is my surprise 30th birthday party on Friday night so I better make it back on time for that)

Thank you for your time

John Cairney

George,

Thank you for including me in your eZine list. I will pass it on to my students.

Ernie Sumpter (Philadelphia) called me about these dates as well. I will be on work travel for most of these dates, but as I said I will pass them on.

Congratulations on another successful summer camp! The two students of mine (Dana and Heather) that went came back very excited about what they learned and couldn't wait to show me. In fact I have asked them to conduct a mini-seminar in place of one of our classes to show our dojo what they learned.

I started a new job last March at the National Education Association Health Information Network as a health educator. I travel a couple times a month setting up and implementing parent education training programs and conducting HIV prevention and education seminars. It's going great!

Ken Nakamatsu came to DC with his wife and their son Taichi this July after training at Frank's in Florida. We had great training with him and I enjoyed showing them around DC. His wife had never been here before and was very impressed and happy as she had only seen Florida and thought all of the US was like that! I'm glad I was able to show her something very different.

I am off Wednesday for 10 days in Alabama to conduct training sessions for work and then 5 days in Atlanta for a conference. I will stay with Bruce Hirabayashi and his family for a couple days as well and get some time training with him and his students there.

I hope you and Susan are well.

Bob Kaiser

Subject: 10 Point Kumite

Dear Mr. Mattson,

I have just finished reading your book on Uechi Ryu Karte Do, and in the section discussing ten-point kumite you stated that there is actually an eleventh point, the take down, that you would gladly send if the reader wrote you. I would like the information on the eleventh point. I studied under Bill Kieth in South Florida, and I remember him teaching a take down in ten-point, but you gave a different description from what I learned.

Thank you very much.

Sincerely,

Christopher J. Corey

There is basically one takedown. The attacker throws a left front kick, which is blocked with a left downward block. The kick is followed up with a right hook or straight punch to the face. Defender blocks, with a rising left block (which can also be a counterattack to the face). He then drops slightly, taking out the attacker's right leg and in the process, dropping the attacker to the ground. There are many variations of the takedown and counterattack. There may be some video clips on our site.

You might bring up the subject on our forums. GEM

Subject: Teaching Uechi to kids

We all seem to have a problem teaching uechi to tots, do you have any ideas or some links to help get a few ideas. as the dojo grows these children become a big part of the school..

Greg Brown Merced, Ca

This subject has been discussed in detail on our Forums. Please post your question on the "Business Marketing" forum and I'll get involved in the discussion. GEM

Subject: kata question

Hi, my name is Gord Hill.

We have communicated before: I asked about the video clips and the stone article illustrations. I am a first degree with Tsuruoka Canada. I am originally from Thunder Bay Ontario, and am currently living in Winnipeg Manitoba. I have studied from the age of ten almost any book on karate that i could find, especially kata. About ten years ago i became facinated with sanchin. I guess it posed the greatest mystery to me. How could some of the greatest karateka speak of the most advanced kata being one that appears so simple. Yeah, right! I have invested alot of time in this study, where most was focused on the Goju version. I loved the articles you had on your site back in 97-98, esp. the breathing method and conditioning ones. The thing is, i have been able to observe your kata through the internet, and i must say that i am impressed. They are very beautiful and efficient. I have noticed that there are variations of seisan. Maybe i'm mistaken, but in your book, the kata starts off with double nukite, then the ridge hands to the head region, yet there is another site, where the clip shows the kata start with three sanchin like movements, like seisan from goju or hangetsu, or just about any other style of seisan that i've come across. Am i mistaken? Thank you for your time. I love your site. Gord

Simple explanation Gord (wish all my email was so simple to answer):

There is a 'short' form Seisan and a 'long' forum. The long form begins with 3 Sanchin steps and arm moves, the short, with the circular temple strike with ridge hands. GEM ps. thanks for the kind words.

Dear Uechi-Ryu Karate Practitioners:

My name is Tomonori Yamakwa, CEO of MIS Okinawa, a web design company in Okinawa.

Our company is conducting market research about how many people in the world are interested in Okinawan culture and art. I found your web site from Yahoo! and am sending this e-mail.

We have made an online survey of things Okinawan on our web site, and I would appreciate it if you could vote and tell members of the Uechi-Ryu Karate about this survey. We will continue this survey until the end of May , and present the result to Okinawan businesses and governmental agencies, depending on the demand.

Please visit the following page to register your vote on the things of Okinawa.

http://www.misokinawa.com/en/poll.asp

************************* Why we are doing this survey ************************* I was asked some questions about Okinawa and its art works for example "Ryukyu glass"and "Bingata" from people in the U.S. through a news group related to Okinawan subjects, but could find few English pages to show them. I felt sad about it because there are poeple looking for Okinawan things and while there are many web sites, those who don't understand Japanese cannot appreciate them. There are so many beautiful things in Okinawa, and people all over the world, specially "Uchina n chu" like yourselves, should be able to appreciate them easily in this Internet world.

Since our company does web site development and one of our business partners, IAC Translation, does translation, we thought we can help those producers of Okinawan art works and other institutes make English versions of their web sites so that they can let the world know about the beautiful things and culture of Okinawa to the world.

In order to convince those Okinawan businesses and governmental agencies, I need some statistics to show how much demand for Okinawan products there is in the world. If there is sufficient demand these companies will begin development of English web pages and, thus, people all over the world can easily access information on not only the things of Okinawa but also of Okinawa Itself.

If you have any question about this survey, please feel free to ask anything to us at info@misokinawa.com.

Thank you very much for your attention and vote. I hope you have a great day.

Tomonori Yamakawa MIS Okinawa 412-15 Yoza, Itoman Okinawa, 901-0322, Japan phone/fax: 098-994-6167 e-mail: ty@misokinawa.com web site: http://www.misokinawa.com

Sensei,

Sorry to hear of the hacker biz, hopefully everything will be under control, with the experts you have, I'm sure it will.

I am following the recommended procedure and changing my password, I have also changed my e-mail address, which generated a new password automatically.

Can't seem to access my "profile", as it says my password is incorrect.

I'm not too excited about it at this time, as with all that is going on behind the scenes now I know all of you are very busy.

This is just FYI, I'll try at sometime later, I'm sure things will straighten out as this mess is cleared up.

Again, I thank you for your time and effort in presenting these forums.

nick

Your computer is probably still using your old password. Something to do with the "Cookie" the forum places on your computer so it automatically inserts username & password into topics and replies on the forums. Clearing your computer cache should get rid of the old information. GEM

A priest was called away for an emergency. Not wanting to leave the confessional unattended, he called his rabbi friend from across the street

and asked him to cover for him. The rabbi told him he wouldn't know what to say, but the priest told him to come on over and he'd stay with him for a little bit and show him what to do. The rabbi comes, and he and the priest are in the confessional.

In a few minutes, a woman comes in and says, "Father, forgive me for I have sinned.

The priest asks, "What did you do?"

The woman says, "I committed adultery."

Priest: "How many times?"

Woman: "Three times."

Priest: "Say two Hail Mary's, put five dollars in the box, and go and sin no more."

A few minutes later, a man enters the confessional. He says, "Father, forgive me for I have sinned."

Priest: "What did you do?"

Man: "I committed adultery."

Priest: "How many times?"

Man: "Three times."

Priest: "Say two Hail Mary's, put five dollars in the box, and go and sin no more."

The rabbi tells the priest that he thinks he's got it so the Priest leaves.

A few minutes later, another woman enters and says, "Father, forgive me for I have sinned."

Rabbi: "What did you do?"

Woman: "I committed adultery."

Rabbi: "How many times?"

Woman: "Once."

Rabbi: "Go do it two more times. We have a special this week, three for five dollars."

A man woke up to find a gorilla in his backyard tree. He phoned the nearest S.P.C.A. The service man arrived with a stick, a Chihuahua, a pair of handcuffs and a shotgun. "Now listen carefully," he told the homeowner. "I'm going to climb the tree and poke the gorilla with this stick until he falls to the ground. The Chihuahua has been trained to go straight for his private parts. When the gorilla crosses his hands to protect himself, you slap the handcuffs on him." "Got it! But what's the shotgun for?" asked the homeowner. "If I fall out of the tree before the gorilla," the service man said, "Shoot the Chihuahua!"

June, 2001 Mailbag

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June, 2001 Mailbag

New Mailbag Feedback Bulletin Board Respond to letters, Ask questions, Say hello. Read what others have written.

MailBag Feedback Forum archives.[please do not post to this archive forum]

Copyright 2001 Eastern Arts & Humanities Center, Inc. All rights reserved.

New Mailbag Feedback Bulletin Board
Respond to letters, Ask questions,
Say hello. Read what others have written.