December 2012 Newsletter

H. JAMES YOUNG'S RETURN VISIT TO AKMS

Instructor H. James Young returned to AKMS for a visit November 13th-17th. Mr. Young is from Denton, Maryland. He has been in the Martial Arts for over 35 years. While at American Karate Mr. Young trained and taught class. He also competed at Sam Price's tournament taking first place in the black belt empty hand and weapons kata divisions. We look forward to his next visit.

CAPOEIRA MASTER VISITS AKMS

Mestre Galo (Greg Flickinger), who is one of a few non-Brazilian capoeira mestres (masters) in the world – Canto do Galo (“The Rooster’s Crow”) has been sharing the rich traditions of Capoeira throughout the Front Range of Colorado since the mid-90′s. Mestre Galo and his students conducted a Capeira work shop for Mr. Williams and his adult class. Every one in attendance had a great time. The Capoeira students were very interested in karate and at some point Mr. Williams and his students will travel to Colorado to return the favor.

TOURNAMENTS SAM PRICE ALL STAR KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS RESULTS
November 17, 2012

Dakota Douglas 
1st Place 8-9 Int Kata
1st Place 8-9 Int Kumite
H. James Young
1st Place Black Belt Kata
1st Place Black Belt Weapons

Wells Bridges' 32nd Annual Karate Spectacular
December 1st 2012
Central Park Community Center 1534 SW Clay
Topeka, KS 66604
CONTACT: 368-0101

PROMOTIONS
November 17, 2012

H. James Young, 5th Degree Black Belt

HOLIDAY GIFT SHOPPING

There is just over two weeks left for Holiday Gift Shopping at the school through Century Martial Art Supply. The Holiday Gift Catalogs are out and you can place orders at anytime. There are specials on training bag and sparring gear bundles. Special gift and novelty items go fast. Do not wait until the last minute! See Mr. or Mrs. Williams about placing orders today for Christmas!

STUFF THE BUS

For those that wish to participate Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence is collecting items for their Women's Shelter. They are asking for New items such Food, Household, Children, Personal Care and Kitchen items. Items collected will remain in the community to assist local victims and may be used for Christmas family sponsorship. Feel free to drop by your items at the karate school between 5:00 pm and 8:30 pm. We will be collecting items until December 6th.

WHO WANTS TO BE A MASTER?

Traditionally in Eastern culture, a master is a person who founds a style or is the individual appointed by the master to continue the lineage. In Western culture, a master is traditionally a person who devotes his whole life to his/her craft and who reaches a level of excellence that surpasses the average practitioner. It is interesting to watch the changes of time after forty years of martial arts training. “Master” was not a term that you heard on a regular basis. The closest term we had in the 70’s and 80’s was “Martial Arts Expert” or one “Bad A_ _ Dude!” We now have a generation of martial arts practitioner that will introduce himself as Master Joe Blow, a title designated by himself. A title self imposed by someone who hasn’t been on this earth as long as I have been studying and practicing the arts. Don’t get me wrong…..I use titles to market my school as martial arts schools in Hutchinson are a competitive business but a title is not what defines me. Masters have rarely considered themselves to be masters. Instead, they are designated as masters by their peers. It is difficult to get over the fact that the martial arts industry is an unregulated game of "I'm a master". It's great to have credentials, but it's largely a waste of time pursuing "rank" for the sake of how it appears in a yellow pages ad. Parents don't care how much we know until they know how much we care (and they never care much for instructors who are more concerned with titles at the end of their name or stripes on their belt, compared to giving their students the best possible instruction). Besides, although all instructors should be Black Belts not all black belts should be instructors and most are definitely not masters. 

HOLIDAY CLOSINGS

This year American Karate will be closed Monday, Christmas Eve through Monday, New Years day. Classes will resume Tuesday January 2nd. This will be the first time that we have closed the school during this period of time. The past two years we have only had a few students per class.

If you or your employer would like to make a donation to the school to help purchase equipment or help a disadvantaged youth take martial arts lessons please fill out this form or pick one up at the school.

Promotions

November 17, 2012

H. James Young, 5th Degree Black Belt

SAM PRICE'S ALL STAR KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Karate Tournament Results
Saturday, November 17th

Dakota Douglas
1st Place Int. Kata
1st Place Int. Kumite

H. James Young
1st Place Black Belt Weapons
1st Place Black Belt Kata

National Guard Armory 11th and Severence
Hutchinson, Kansas
CONTACT: Sam or Jessica Price 620-669-9051

November 2012 Newsletter

BULLYING 

Bullying can be verbal, physical, or via the Internet. It can severely affect an individual’s self-image, social interactions, and school performance which often leads to insecurity, lack of self-esteem, and depression in adulthood. School dropout rates and absences among victims of bullying are much higher than among other students. Studies have shown that children who have been identified as a bully by age eight are six times more likely to have a criminal conviction by age 24. Children who are bullies may continue to be bullies as adults, and are more prone to becoming child and spouse abusers.

Martial arts can help kids who are being bullied. Bullies thrive on attacking people that they view as weak. Youth who are bullied often have low confidence levels, inability to concentrate on school work, lack of focus and high stress levels which make them look even weaker. One of the biggest misconceptions about enrolling children and teenagers in martial arts is that the kids become aggressive and, therefore, are likely to bully others. The fact is that martial arts do just the opposite. Bullies often have sense of superiority over others and their environments and lack impulse control. Often time, bullies don't know how to manage their anger so they take it out on people they deem weaker than themselves. Many times, bullies are being, or have been, bullied at some point in their lives as well. Martial arts can assist in solving these problems.

PROMOTIONS
October 12, 2012

Lucas Garcia-Lil' Dragon Gold Stripe
Alex Johnson-Gold Belt
Aaron Armbrust-Jr. Green Belt
Dawson Deetz-Jr. Green Belt
Dakota Douglas-Jr. Green Belt
Shayla Johnson-Purple Belt
Nolan Clark-Jr. Brown Belt

H. JAMES YOUNG TO RETURN FOR A VISIT

Instructor H. James Young will return to AKMS for a visit November 13th-17th. Mr. Young is from Denton, Maryland. He has been in the Martial Arts for over 35 years. His background has gone beyond the training mentioned above, which includes styles in Jujitsu, Kenpo, Kung Fu, Gung Fu, Judo, Jeet Kun Do, Aikido, and Hapkido. Also, some of the weapons he has had training with are nunchuckus, baton, long staff, samurai sword, and Sais.

He is trained to use almost anything as a weapon from a rolled up newspaper or magazine, to chopsticks, or a fountain pen case to a man’s pant belt to use in self defense. He has trained with notable Martial Arts' professionals like Grand Master Charles A. Dixon (SIMAA), Master Freddie "Teach" Giddens (TUMAA), Darrel "Golden Boy" Tyler, Master Ivory Irvin (MIHOD), Master Thomas Williams (AKMS), Allan Banks, and countless other martial artist within this time frame

CAPOEIRA MASTER TO VISIT AKMS 

Under the direction of Mestre Galo (Greg Flickinger), who is one of few non-Brazilian capoeira mestres (masters) in the world – Canto do Galo (“The Rooster’s Crow”) has been sharing the rich traditions of Capoeira throughout the Front Range since the mid-90′s. Mestre Galo is a world-renowned capoeira pioneer based out of Denver/Boulder, Colorado. The Mestre will be at AKMS on Saturday, November 17th from 10:00 am to noon sharing his art with the Adult Class. Master Flickinger is the cousin of master level AKMS black belt, Jean Gaeddert.

Capoeira took its shape in the bubbling cauldron of Brazil. Its roots trace from the African peoples enslaved there dating from the early 1500’s. As a dynamic expression of Afro-Brazilian culture, its own evolution is testimony to the creative adaptability and will to survive of its people and culture. Still evolving, Capoeira has been spreading worldwide in recent decades. It provides a rare modern format to bring together our best human resources: music, vigorous physical interaction, playfulness, community structure, and creativity…….to develop problem-solving capabilities, confidence, and respectfulness in the ‘un-balance-ing’ conditions we are often in.

TOURNAMENTS

SAM PRICE
ALL STAR KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS
Saturday, November 17th
National Guard Armory 11th and Severence
Hutchinson, Kansas
CONTACT: Sam or Jessica Price 620-669-9051

HOLIDAY GIFT SHOPPING
Now is the time for Holiday Gift Shopping at the school through Century Martial Art Supply. The Holiday Gift Catalogs are out and you can place orders at anytime. There are specials on training bag and sparring gear bundles. I just want to remind you that special gift and novelty items go fast. Do not wait until the last minute! See Mr. or Mrs. Williams about placing orders today for Christmas!

If you or your employer would like to make a donation to the school to help purchase equipment or help a disadvantaged youth take martial arts lessons please fill out this form or pick one up at the school.

Promotions

October 12, 2012

Alex Johnson-Gold Belt
Aaron Armbrust-Jr. Green Belt
Dawson Deetz-Jr. Green Belt
Dakota Douglas-Jr. Green Belt
Shayla Johnson-Purple Belt
Nolan Clark-Jr. Brown Belt

Promotions

October 12, 2012

Lucas Garcia-Lil' Dragon Gold Stripe

October 2012 Newletter

WOMEN'S SELF DEFENSE

American Karate's annual "FREE" Women's Self Defense workshop is coming up on Saturday, October 20th. This course is offered every year in support of Domestic Violence Month. This workshop is open for ladies ages 13 and over. If you have participated in the workshop before bring a friend or make plans to attend the intermediate self defense workshop in May 2013.

AKMS STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN UNITED WAY RUN

American Karate students Lisa, Shayla and Alex Johnson participated in the United Way 5K run. They placed very well out of 84 participants. way to go!!! Lisa Johnson - 1st Female overall (3rd overall male/female) (pace 6:57/M) Shayla Johnson - 1st Female age 15 and below (27th overall male/female) (pace 9:31/M) Alex Johnson - 2nd male age 15 and below (the youngest) (44th overall male/female) (pace 11:34/M)

PINA'S TAEKWONDO TO OPEN IN NOVEMBER

Manuel Pina, 9th Degree black belt and Mr. Williams' former instructor inTaekwondo has severed ties with the Hutchinson School of Taekwondo. He will open his Dojang November 2nd. Mr. Williams is currently his highest ranking student as a 7th Degree black belt. Mr. Williams is also an 8th Degree black belt in American Karate.

KARATE COMES TO AMERICA

American servicemen serving in Japan and Okinawa after the conclusion of World War II were among the first Westerners to ever be exposed to Asian karate styles. Many put 1946 as the date of the first karate school in America when Robert Trias, a returning U.S. Navy vet,who studied in Okinawa/Hawaii, began teaching private lessons in Phoenix, Arizona. Other early teachers of karate in America were Ed Parker (a native Hawaiian and Coast Guard vet who earned a black belt in 1953), George Mattson (who began studying while stationed in Okinawa in 1956), and Peter Urban (another Navy vet who started training in the late 1950s). Prior to 1946, most Karate teachers outside of Japan were in the Territory of Hawaii (not yet a state). Many of those teachers taught Kempo to only asians and locals. One such teacher was James Mitose. It was through Mitose that one style of Kempo (Kosho Shorei Ryu) was introduced to the world through William Chow, one of his black belts, who then went on to modify it and train Adriando Emperado, Edmond Parker, Ralph Castro and a host of other future Grandmasters, some who brought the modified art to the U.S. In the 1950s and early 60s several other Asian karate teachers began arriving in America to seek their fortunes and to aid in the popularization of the art. They included Hidetaka Nishiyama, Teruyuki Okazaki, Takayuki Mikami, Tsutomu Ohshima, Richard Kim, and Takayuki Kubota. Several Koreans also came to America in those days to introduce the Korean version of the martial arts (not yet known by the term tae kwon do). They included Jhoon Rhee, Henry Cho, Kim Soo, and Jack Hwang. In spite of the presence of these Asian instructors, karate was primarily spread across the country in the early days by American-born teachers. They included Trias(called the "Father of American Karate"), Nagle, Parker, Mattson, and Urban, plus pioneers like Steve Armstrong, Allen Steen, Ernest Lieb, Pat Burleson, Mike Stone, Chuck Norris, Joe Lewis, Roger Carpenter and Sam Price.

If you or your employer would like to make a donation to the school to help purchase equipment or help a disadvantaged youth take martial arts lessons please fill out this form or pick one up at the school.

Kent Clayborn's Annual Karate Tournament

Karate Tournament Results
Saturday September 8, 2012

Christine Warring Adult Black Belt
1st Black BeltWeapons Kata
1st Black Belt Empty Hand Kata
1st Womens Black Belt Kumite

El Dorado High School Rec Center
401 McCollum Rd. El Dorado, KS
CONTACT: Kent Clayborn 316-321-2380

Dave Estes Karate Tournament

Karate Tournament Results
Saturday September 8, 2012

Dakota Douglas 9-10 Novice
2nd Place Kata
2nd Place Kumite

Levi Geesling 7-8 Intermediate
1st Kata
2nd Kumite

Lazarus Garcia 7-8 Intermediate
2nd Kata
3rd Kumite

El Dorado Ks 4H Building
200 N. Griffith Eldorado, KS
CONTACT: Dave Estes 316-320-5425

September 2012 Newletter

REGULAR ADULT CLASSES BACK IN SESSION

School is back in session and we are moving into fall. The Adult Classes are back to regular schedule. During the month of September we will have "Bring a Friend" to class on Monday evenings during the Adult Beginners class. For those parents that have children in class and have always wanted to take lessons here is an opportunity to bring a friend and come to class.

KARATE KID SATURDAY

On Saturday, August 25th Mr. Williams invited students from all the youth classes to bring a friend and come down to the school for a short class and viewing of the Karate Kid movie. Everyone had a good time. There was popcorn, cookies, chex mix and pretzels. Mrs. Clarke sent some homemade cookies that didn't last very long. Yum...yum! All the friends recieved five free lessons.

TOURNAMENTS

On September 8th there are two tournaments in El Dorado on the same day. I will be going to Mr. Estes's tournament and Ms. Warring will be going to Mr. Clayborn's. Feel free to attend which ever one you wish. 

Dave Estes Karate Tournament
Saturday September 8, 2012
El Dorado Ks 4H Building
200 N. Griffith
Eldorado, Kansas
CONTACT: Dave Estes 316-320-5425

Kent Clayborn's Annual Karate Tournament
Saturday September 8th
El Dorado High School Rec Center
401 McCollum Rd.
El Dorado, Kansas
CONTACT: Kent Clayborn 316-321-2380

WHEAT STATE CLASSIC RESULTS
Saturday August 18, 2012

Aaron Armbrust 7-8 Novice
3rd Place Sparring

Lazarus Garcia 7-8 Int.
4th Place Kata
4th Place Sparring

Dakota Douglas 9-10 Novice
2nd Place Kata
2nd Place Sparring

Nolan Clarke 11-12 Int.
4th Place Weapons
1st Place kata

Tate Sazama 11-12 Adv.
3rd Place Weapons
2nd Place Kata

Cristine Warring Adult Black Belt
2nd - weapons senior black belt division
1st - kata women's senior black belt division
2nd - sparring women's senior black belt division

MR. WILLIAMS RECEIVES TAEKWONDO PROMOTION

On August 15th Mr. Williams was promoted to 7th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo by his first instructor, Mr. Manuel Pina. Mr. Pina is a 9th Degree black belt in Taekwondo Moo Duk Kwan. Mr. Williams was the first student to be promoted to black belt by Mr. Pina in August of 1982.

WOMEN'S SELF DEFENSE

American Karate's annual "FREE" Women's Self Defense workshop is coming up in October, date to be announced. It will take place on a Saturday. Check our website as the month of October draws closer.

SPORT KARATE

In today's terminology, Sport Karate (or Sport Martial Arts) is the application of competitive martial arts in a sporting environment, and has been around for a few decades. The two main categories/divisions of competition are Fighting and Forms. Within those two categories, there are various areas of competition such as weapon forms, musical forms, team forms, team fighting, continuous fighting, and many more divisions (depending what sanction an athlete competes in). Sport Martial Arts is quickly evolving as competitors continue to push the envelope of what people are physically capable of doing. This not only has increased the level of competition, but also allows martial art athletes to be more innovative in their traditional and competitive training. All of the various divisions at a Sport Karate tournament are broken up into age categories and levels of martial art experience to even out the competition. Age groups vary from event-to-event, but experience is usually the same. Less then 1 year is considered a beginner, 2 - 3 years is intermediate, 3 or more years is advanced and Black Belts are segregated from all other under belts (non-black belts). Will I get hurt? Well, you are fighting another person, so chances are you'll end up with a bruise or two at the end of a match. But Sport Martial Arts wouldn't have gained the popularity it currently has if athletes kept on getting injured like we did in the late 60's and 70's. Many times you can go through a match wondering when you got hit or kicked! Almost all sanctions require the athletes to wear protective gear to prevent injury and judges are always close by to monitor the match. Think of a sanction as a league, there are different types and different levels. Be sure you know what the rules of a particular sanction are before you join to ensure it is the type of competition you're looking for. Sport Karate is interesting to watch but is not for everyone. Traditional Tournament Karate however, is becoming a thing of the past.

If you or your employer would like to make a donation to the school to help purchase equipment or help a disadvantaged youth take martial arts lessons please fill out this form or pick one up at the school.

Promotions

August 2012

Thomas Williams-7th Degree Black Belt Taekwondo Moo Duk Kwan

August 2012 Newsletter

SUMMER HOURS FOR ADULT CLASSES

MONDAY                7:30 TO 8:30                     ADULT MIXED CLASS

TUESDAY               6:30 TO 8:00                    ADULT MIXED CLASS

THURSDAY            6:30 TO 8:00                    ADULT MIXED CLASS

This will be this will be the last month of summer hours ending August 31st. It has been another hot one! Although class participation has been down there have been some troopers take on the heat. Remember to continue to stay hydrated. Make sure you dring several glasses of water prior to coming to class and don't hesitate to bring a water bottle.

WOMEN'S SELF DEFENSE IN STERLING

On Thursday, July 12th Mr. Williams conducted a Self Defense Clinic in Sterling, Kansas at Calvary Baptist Church for a ladies youth group. The clinic was a success and the ladies had alot of fun while learning a few tools to help them to defend themselves.

TOURNAMENTS

KANSAS STATE SUNFLOWER GAMES
July 14th RESULTS:

Alex Johnson 5-Under Novice
1st Kata
1st Sparring

Dakota Douglas 8-9 Novice
2nd Kata
1st Sparring

Shayla Johnson 8-9 Intermediate
1st Kata
2nd Sparring

Becca Zimmerman 14-15 Intermediate
1st Sparring

Christine Warring Black Belt
2nd 18-Over Sparring
2nd 35-Over Sparring

WHEAT STATE CLASSIC
Saturday August 18, 2012
Derby Sixth Grade Center
715 East Madison Drive
Derby, Kansas
CONTACT: Tom Hinkle 316-393-6192 thinkle2@cox.net

UNITED STATES MARTIAL ARTS HALL OF FAME

The United States Martial Arts Hall Of Fame honors the men and women whom they have recognized for their efforts to advance the traditions and teachings of the martial arts, and for those who have dedicated their lives to instill discipline, confidence and a passion for the arts into the lives of their students around the globe. On July 21st Mr. Williams was Inducted along with friend, student and colleague, Sandra Price-Byrd as only two martial artists from the state of Kansas.

LIFETIME ACHEIVEMENT AWARD

Mr. Williams attended a recognition dinner as a presenter, held by Ricky and Sandra Price-Byrd. During the dinner Mr. Williams reognized Sandra as one of a very few female martial artists that was inducted into the United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame. During the program he was surprized with an award for a Lifetime Acheivement of his years of training, competing and teaching the martial arts.

Bushidokan's Steve Stillwell and Mr. Williams

BACK TO SCHOOL WITH THE KARATE KID

Saturday, August 25 at 1:00 we will have a special class for the youth and their friends. We will have a short class followed by the Karate Kid movie. Drop the kids off or stay if you like and pick them up between 3:30 and 4:00.

If you or your employer would like to make a donation to the school to help purchase equipment or help a disadvantaged youth take martial arts lessons please fill out this form or pick one up at the school.

WHEAT STATE CLASSIC

Karate Tournament Results
Saturday August 18, 2012

Aaron Armbrust 7-8 Novice 
3rd Place Sparring

Lazarus Garcia 7-8 Int.
4th Place Kata
4th Place Sparring

Dakota Douglas 9-10 Novice
2nd Place Kata
2nd Place Sparring

Nolan Clarke 11-12 Int.
4th Place Weapons
1st Place kata

Tate Sazama 11-12 Adv. 
3rd Place Weapons
2nd Place Kata

Cristine Warring Adult Black Belt
2nd - weapons senior black belt division
1st - kata women's senior black belt division
2nd - sparring women's senior black belt division

Derby Sixth Grade Center
715 East Madison Drive
Derby, Kansas
CONTACT: Tom Hinkle 316-393-6192 thinkle2@cox.net

KANSAS STATE SUNFLOWER GAMES

Karate Tournament Results
July 14, 2012

Alex Johnson 5-Under Novice
1st Kata
1st Sparring

Dakota Douglas 8-9 Novice
2nd Kata
1st Sparring

Shayla Johnson 8-9 Intermediate
1st Kata
2nd Sparring

Becca Zimmerman 14-15 Intermediate
1st Sparring

Christine Warring Black Belt
2nd 18-Over Sparring
2nd 35-Over Sparring







KANSAS STATE SUNFLOWER GAMES
July 14th
Christ the King Church: 5973 SW 25th St., Topeka, KS
CONTACT: Tony Mielenz 785-554-4220 anthonymielenz@yahoo.com

July 2012 Newsletter

SUMMER HOURS FOR ADULT CLASSES

MONDAY                7:30 TO 8:30                     ADULT MIXED CLASS

TUESDAY               6:30 TO 8:00                    ADULT MIXED CLASS

THURSDAY            6:30 TO 8:00                    ADULT MIXED CLASS

Youth classes will remain the same. This will be in effect until August 31st. It is important that you start drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day and bring bottled water to class with you. Have a great summer!!!

DILLONS COUPON ADS

Tell your friends about our coupon ad at Dillons grocery stores on East 4th Avenue and North Main streets. When they check out there is a coupon on the back side of their store reciept good for two free lessons.

NO CLASSES
July 2-6

American Karate will be closed from Monday July 2nd through Friday July 6th. Classes will resume on Monday the 9th through Wednesday the 11th. There will be no class on Thursday the 12th as Mr. Williams will be doing a Self Defense Clinic in Sterling, Kansas.

SPIRIT WEEK

We had another great Spirit Week. Class was full every night. Attendance has not been this good in almost twenty years. During one of the sessions a student said "This is hard!". Another student immediately responded with "That's why it is called Spirit Week". So what is Spirit Week? Spirit week was started back in the early 1990's by Mr. Williams. It was a time to for everyone to come together in one class, work hard, develop some team effort and martial spirit. Today Spirit Week serves as a reminder of what the martial arts was like when Mr. Williams was a student. It is about putting forth your best effort and not cutting yourself short. It is about putting the best you have on display while knowing your limitations.

For those that work weapons, martial arts weapons experts, Wells Bridges and Sam Jenkins put on a seminar on bo staff and oar. Those that participated had a great time and learned alot.

Spirit Week was rounded off with a picnic and awards presentation held in the park by Mr. Williams. Over one hundred students, family members and guests were in attendance. We want to thank everyone who helped set up, cook and clean up.

SPIRIT WEEK AWARDS

Kathy Marquez-Adult Outstanding Student of the Year
Dakota Douglas-Youth Outstanding Student of the Year
Dawson Deetz-Honorable Mention
Cayden Deetz-Honorable Mention
Cristine Warring-Competitor of the Year
Susie Webb-Battle Scar Award
Alex Johnson-Lil' Spirit Warrior
Damian Hurt-Super Dragon
Charlie Daugherty-Super Dragon
Marcia Dillon-Promotion to 5th Degree Black Belt

TOURNAMENTS

ROY MILLER
GREAT PLAINS KARATE CHALLENGE RESULTS
June 23rd, 2012

Alex Johnson 5-6 Novice
2nd Place Sword Kumite
1st Place Kata
4th Kumite

Caden Deetz 7-9 Novice
5th Place Kata
3rd Place Kumite

Dawson Deetz
3rd Place Kata
4th Place Kumite
Youth Spirit Award

Shayla Johnson 7-9 Intermediate
1st Place Kata

Dakota Douglas 10-12 Novice
3rd Place Kata
1st Place Kumite
Youth Spirit Award

Lisa Johnson Adult Advanced
2nd Place Kata
1st Place Kumite

Cristine Warring Adult Black Belt
1st Weapons
1st Place Empty Hand Kata
1st Kumite

KANSAS STATE SUNFLOWER GAMES
July 14th
Christ the King Church: 5973 SW 25th St., Topeka, KS
CONTACT: Tony Mielenz 785-554-4220 anthonymielenz@yahoo.com

WHEAT STATE CLASSIC
Saturday August 18, 2012
Derby Sixth Grade Center
715 East Madison Drive
Derby, Kansas
CONTACT: Tom Hinkle 316-393-6192 thinkle2@cox.net

THE MARTIAL ARTS & RELIGION

What does the martial arts have to do with religion? Absolutely nothing. Although some martial artists study and train religiously, religion is not necessarilty a component of the martial arts, at least in America. Thousands of years ago Chinese Monks took to the highways and byways of their world to spread their religion and give alms to the poor, sick and shut in. Reflectively, although they did not practice Christianity they provided a similar service that we as Christians provide today.  Because these were religious men they were subject to persecution, robbery and assault. An Indian monk taught them a means of self defense and self preservation we later came to know as Kung-Fu. You see, the martial arts was not the end to a means but a means to an end. That end being spreading their religion and feeding the poor, sick and shut in while protecting the gifts they had for others from thieves. In America religion and martial arts do not mix although they could. The martial arts are a great way to stay in shape, become more disciplined and learn to be more confident in your daily interactions in life. Martial arts without a conscience allows for one to become abusive or a bully. I can't speak for most religions but for Christians the tenants of the Bible can teach you a great many things about how to live your life abundantly and victoriously and have a conscience in regards to harming your fellow man.  As a martial artist I hold alot of distructive power in my hands and feet. My religious beliefs guide my conscience. I will talk, I will walk, I will run and I will definitely hurt you real bad. But only because I have to. Never because I want to.

If you or your employer would like to make a donation to the school to help purchase equipment or help a disadvantaged youth take martial arts lessons please fill out this form or pick one up at the school.

Promotions

June 2012

Marcia Dillon-5th Degree Black Belt

Great Plains Karate Challenge 2012

Karate Tournament Results
June 23, 2012

Lakewood Middle School 1135 Lakewood Circle
Salina, Kansas
Roy Miller
785-493-0257

Alex Johnson 5-6 Novice
2nd Place Sword Kumite
1st Place Kata
4th Kumite

Caden Deetz 7-9 Novice
5th Place Kata
3rd Place Kumite

Dawson Deetz
3rd Place Kata
4th Place Kumite
Youth Spirit Award

Shayla Johnson 7-9 Intermediate
1st Place Kata

Dakota Douglas 10-12 Novice
3rd Place Kata
1st Place Kumite
Youth Spirit Award

Lisa Johnson Adult Advanced
2nd Place Kata
1st Place Kumite

Cristine Warring Adult Black Belt
1st Weapons
1st Place Empty Hand Kata
1st Kumite

Sams Summer Karate Kick Off

Karate Tournament Results
June 9, 2012

Kansas Army National Guard
1111 N. Severance Hutchinson, Kansas
CONTACT: Sam or Jessica Price
620-669-9051
hutchkarate@sbcglobal.net

Alex Johnson 5-6 Novice
1st Place Kata
1st Place Kumite

Dakota Douglas-Novice
1st Place Kata
1st Place Kumite

Cayden Deetz-Novice
1st Place Kata
2nd Place Kumite

Zack Perry-Novice
2nd Place Kata
4th Place Kumite

Dawson Deetz-Novice
1st Kata
1st Kumite

Shayla Johnson-Intermediate
1st Kata
1st Kumite

June 2012 Newsletter

SUMMER HOURS FOR ADULT CLASSES
MONDAY 7:30 TO 8:30 ADULT MIXED CLASS
TUESDAY 6:30 TO 8:00 ADULT MIXED CLASS
THURSDAY 6:30 TO 8:00 ADULT MIXED CLASS

Youth classes will remain the same. It is important that you start drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day and bring bottled water to class with you. Have a great summer!!!

BELT TEST
May 30th 2012

GOLD STRIPE BELTS
Dominic Rivera

FIESTA EXHIBITION
Saturday June 2nd

American Karate was invited to perform an exhibition at this years Fiesta at Our Lady of Guada Lupe Church. Tommy took eight of the advanced students. They put on a good show. A big thanks to everyone who participated. A special thanks to Jordan Julian who took alot of punishment by playing the bad guy along with Jeff Geesling in all of the self defense senarios.

SPIRIT WEEK
June 25th through 29th

Spirit week is several weeks away. This is a great time of year. All of the regular karate classes will meet together from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm Monday through Thursday. It is important that you start drinking plenty of fluids now and bring bottled water to class with you.

Friday will be the Black Belts. The Saturday following will be our annual school picnic. This year we will be at Carey Park at the Home Builders Shelter. We will have access to the shelter from 1:00pm to 4:00pm. The school will provide the burgers, dogs and buns. We ask that the students/family bring a covered dish of fruit, vegetables or dessert. A sign up sheet will be out soon so we can get an idea of how many we will be serving this year.

For those that are working weapons, martial arts weapons experts, Wells Bridges and Sam Jenkins will be here to help you sharpen up your weapons skills. There may be a seminar early that day either in the park or at the school.

TOURNAMENTS
There are several tournament events this month starting with Sam Price's Summer Kick Off. I encourage those that have competed in the past to take advantage of this home event. For those that have not competed before this will be a good event to watch or compete as first timers.

SAM PRICE
ANNUAL SUMMER KICK OFF
June 9, 2012
Kansas Army National Guard
1111 N. Severance
Hutchinson, Kansas
CONTACT: Sam or Jessica Price
620-669-9051
hutchkarate@sbcglobal.net

ROY MILLER
GREAT PLAINS KARATE CHALLENGE
June 23, 2012
Lakewood Middle School
1135 Lakewood Circle
Salina, Kansas
CONTACT: Roy Miller
785-493-0257

KANSAS STATE SUNFLOWER GAMES
July 14, 2012
Christ the King Church
5973 SW 25th St., Topeka, KS
CONTACT: Tony Mielenz
785-554-4220
anthonymielenz@yahoo.com

LIFE SKILLS IN THE MARTIAL ARTS
Your children have a front row seat while you manage your home, do the laundry, make family meals, grocery shop, clothing shop, and pay bills. Many skills you teach with purpose and many more you teach by your actions. Life is full of twists, turns, and bends in the road. Parents want to raise their children to have the character, sense of humor, and grace to handle all situations they will encounter. In addition, parents want to prepare their children to function and live outside of the home. Life skills are just one aspect of the martial arts that we try to teach and instill into our students. The martial arts are much more than kicking and punching. Respect for oneself and others, integrity and compassion can be the difference between using the martial arts for bullying or truly defending yourself or coming to the aid of someone else using the minimum amount of force necessary.

If you or your employer would like to make a donation to the school to help purchase equipment or help a disadvantaged youth take martial arts lessons please fill out this form or pick one up at the school.

May 2012 Newsletter

UPDATING YOUR INFORMATION REMINDER!!!
Don't forget to update your contact information with us when you make changes. We still need to update those that have moved or never provided us an email address. We like to keep your phone numbers, address and e-mail on file. We do alot of contacts via email.

THE HARMFUL EFFECTS RESULTING FROM DEHYDRATION
The human body is anywhere from 55% to 78% water depending on body size. A rule of thumb, 2/3 of body is consists of water, and it is the main component of human body. Did you know that your tissues and organs are mainly made up of water? Here is the percentage:

• Muscle consists of 75% water 
• Brain consists of 90% of water 
• Bone consists of 22% of water 
• Blood consists of 83% water 

The Harmful Effects from Dehydration:

• Tiredness 
• Migraine 
• Constipation
• Muscle cramps
• Irregular blood pressure
• Kidney problems
• Dry skin 20% dehydrated – Risk of death

Symptoms of Dehydration 
Here are some of the symptoms that you need more water:

• Dark Urine – Dark Yellow or Orange in Color: Urine is generally pale yellow to clear when you have sufficient water intake. Dark color or strong smell indicates that you need to drink more water. 
• Dry Skin: Skin is the largest body organ and requires its share of water.
• Thirst: Thirst is the most obvious sign that you're already dehydrated. It is always a good practice to drink more water when you are not thirsty, don’t wait until you're thirsty!!!
• Hunger: Most people mistake hunger for the indication to eat more, whereas in actual fact, they may be dehydrated. So before you have your meal, grab a glass of water.
• Fatigue: Water is a source of energy and gives you a boost in energy.

BELT TEST
April 27/28, 2012

GOLD BELTS
Aaron Armbrust
Kyleah Blackmon
Cayden Deetz
Dawson Deetz
Robert McCaleb
Brayden Miller

GREEN BELT
Lourdes Albert

PURPLE BELT
Jeff Geesling

Jr. BROWN BELT
Shalee Mog

BROWN BELT
Lisa Johnson
Kathy Marquez

TOURNAMENTS
KANSAS STATE SUNFLOWER GAMES
July 14th Christ the King Church: 5973 SW 25th St., Topeka, KS
CONTACT: Tony Mielenz 785-554-4220 anthonymielenz@yahoo.com

SAM PRICE ANNUAL SUMMER KICK OFF 
June 2012 To Be announced Hutchinson, Kansas

ROY MILLER ANNUAL TOURNAMENT
June 23rd, 2012 To Be announced Salina, Kansas

SPRING GROOMING 
Saturday, April 21st
I want to thank all the students and parents that came out to help with the vacant lot next to the school. We finished in record time! The plan is to have the lot prepared for Spirit Week on the last week of June.

WOMEN'S SELF DEFENSE
Saturday, May 5th
This is our moderate impact self defense program for women. Basic self defense tools will be put to the test during several scenarios. Nobody can tell you how to defend yourself in every situation. Each person must evaluate his or her own abilities, and size up the situation based on the level of danger to themselves or a loved one. You can safely learn to discover and use your natural weapons to unleash new abilities that provide more effective options if assaulted. Discover quickly how simple it is to be empowered mentally and physically with new confidence that lasts a lifetime.

Call 665-3800 for more details.

FIESTA EXHIBITION
Saturday June 2nd
American Karate has been invited to perform an exhibition at this years Fiesta at Our Lady of Guada Lupe Church. We are scheduled to perform at 2:00 in the afternoon. There will be more information as the time grows near.

SPIRIT WEEK 
June 25th through 29th
Spirit week is drawing upon us. This is a great time of year. All of the regular karate classes will meet together from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Monday through Thursday. Friday will be the Black Belts. The Saturday following will be our annual school picnic. This year we will be at Carey Park at the Home Builders Shelter. We will have access to the shelter from 1:00pm to 4:00pm. The school will provide the burgers, dogs and buns. We ask that the students/family bring a covered dish of fruit, vegetables and dessert. For those that are working weapons, martial arts weapons experts, Wells Bridges and Sam Jenkins will be here to help you sharpen up your weapons skills.

If you or your employer would like to make a donation to the school to help purchase equipment or help a disadvantaged youth take martial arts lessons please fill out this form or pick one up at the school.

Promotions

April 2012

GOLD BELTS 
Aaron Armbrust
Kyleah Blackmon
Cayden Deetz
Dawson Deetz
Robert McCaleb
Brayden Miller

GREEN BELT
Lourdes Albert

PURPLE BELT 
Jeff Geesling

Jr.BROWN BELT 
Shalee Mog

BROWN BELT 
Lisa Johnson
Kathy Marquez

Wichita Air Capitol Classic

Karate Tournament Results
April 14, 2012 Results:

Dakota Douglas 9-10 Novice
1st Kata
3rd Kumite

Cristine Warring Adult Black Belt 
4th in 18+ Weapons Kata
2nd in Senior Weapons Kata
2nd in Senior Women's Kata
1st in 18+ Women's Kata
2nd in Senior Women Kumite

March/April 2012 Newsletter

UPDATING YOUR INFORMATION
REMINDER!!! Don't forget to update your contact information with us when you make changes. We like to keep your phone numbers, address and e-mail on file. We do alot of contacts via email.

TOURNAMENT RESULTS
WICHITA OPEN 
Saturday, March 17, 2012 Results:

Cristine Warring 
1st Black Belt Weapons Kata
1st Black Belt Empty Hand Kata
1st Womens Black Belt Kumite

St. Jude Children’s Hospital Benefit
Saturday, March 31, 2012 Results:

Tatyana Huhn 
1st Advanced Weapons Kata
4th Advanced Kata
3rd Advanced Sparring

Cristine Warring 
5th Black Belt Weapons Kata
4th Black Belt Empty Hand Kata
3rd Women's Black Belt Sparring

KANSAS STATE SUNFLOWER GAMES
July 14th 
Christ the King Church: 5973 SW 25th St., Topeka, KS
CONTACT: Tony Mielenz 785-554-4220 anthonymielenz@yahoo.com

SPRING GROOMING
Saturday, April 21st

We will be power raking and grooming the field just west of the school on Saturday the 21st. The plan is to have the lot prepared for Spirit Week on the last week of June. Any of the adult students or parents that are interested in helping please bring your rakes and maybe a wide shovel. If you have allergies take early precautions. We plan to start around 10:00 am and with enough help will only take a few hours. 

WOMEN'S SELF DEFENSE
Saturday, May 5th

This is our moderate impact self defense program for women. Basic self defense tools will be put to the test during several scenarios. Nobody can tell you how to defend yourself in every situation. Each person must evaluate his or her own abilities, and size up the situation based on the level of danger to themselves or a loved one. You can safely learn to discover and use your natural weapons to unleash new abilities that provide more effective options if assaulted. Discover quickly how simple it is to be empowered mentally and physically with new confidence that lasts a lifetime. Call 665-3800 for more details.

FIESTA EXHIBITION
Saturday June 2nd

American Karate has been invited to perform an exhibition at this years Fiesta at Our Lady of Guada Lupe Church. We are scheduled to perform at 2:00 in the afternoon.

Bushido Virtue #5 Makoto 

Honesty – makoto in Japanese is the 5th virtue of Bushido. Defining honesty is kind of like throwing jello on a wall and expecting it to stick. So much of what the word means depends on the context and culture in which the word is used, unfortunately. The quality of being honest; uprightness, fairness, truthfulness, sincerity, frankness. This is what you see when you look up the word in a dictionary. Looking up the word honest, though, you find a deeper attempt at definition: honorable in principles, intentions, and actions, upright and fair; gained or obtained fairly; genuine or unadulterated.

Nitobe relates that a samurai could not even comprehend living a life that entertained anything but honesty. He writes in ‘Bushido: The Soul of Japan’, “The bushi held that his high social position demanded a loftier standard of veracity than that of the tradesman and peasant. Bushi no ichi-gon --the word of a samurai […] was sufficient guaranty of the truthfulness of an assertion. His word carried such weight with it that promises were generally made and fulfilled without a written pledge, which would have been deemed quite beneath his dignity.” Can you imagine our world today if everyone could trust each other’s word to this degree?

Sadly, our Western culture accepts and even encourages dishonesty at certain times. Little white lies, living in denial of reality, lying to protect yourself or others; these are all ok today. Very few people bat an eye when adults tell stories of lying to a police officer to get away with speeding. In fact, if a ticket isn’t given, the audience celebrates the person’s ability to twist the truth.

In opposition, the samurai strove to accept the reality of truth – truth of the world around them and truth of how they were seen by the world around them. Likewise, accepting the reality of truth within was a battle samurai fought. Being able to look at yourself in the mirror and truthfully accept who you are inside must happen before you can begin to accept the reality of the world.

Gi points the way for us, yu kicks us in the pants to move, jin keeps us mindful of others on the same journey, rei is how we act toward everyone on the same path (including ourselves) – and makoto keeps us on the path.

It is so easy for us to lie to ourselves and this is the first and bloodiest battle we fight. Did we *really* cheat on cadence? Did I *really* bow correctly? Did I *really* do all of my pushups? Does it matter if I screw up on cadence and have to drop and do pushups? Especially as a black belt – how embarrassing! BUT! The damage done *inside* if we don’t honestly admit to ourselves that we cheated on cadence is a million times worse than what it looks like for a black belt to do pushups for cheating cadence.

We can justify and rationalize all we want and today we most likely will not get caught when we “cheat the system”. This is one of those places within martial arts that “the rubber has to meet the road.” Are you striving to live the virtues of Bushido? Honesty is not up for negotiation. Can you truthfully say that when you give your word that it means the same to you as it did to the samurai?

Cristine Warring
AKMS Sedan, KS.

If you or your employer would like to make a donation to the school to help purchase equipment or help a disadvantaged youth take martial arts lessons please fill out this form or pick one up at the school.

St. Jude Children’s Hospital Benefit

Karate Tournament Results
March 31, 2012 Results:

Tatyana Huhn
1st Advanced Weapons Kata
4th Advanced Kata
3rd Advanced Sparring

Cristine Warring
5th Black Belt Weapons Kata
4th Black Belt Empty Hand Kata
3rd Women's Black Belt Sparring

Wichita Open Results

Karate Tournament Results
March 17, 2012 Results:

Cristine Warring
1st Black Belt Weapons Kata
1st Black Belt Empty Hand Kata
1st Womens Black Belt Kumite

February 2012 Newsletter

ROOTS

Mr. Williams' martial arts history is rooted in several martial arts. The first martial art that he studied was Taekwondo. His first instructor was Manuel C. Pina. Mr. Williams began studying in 1971 and received his black belt from Mr. Pina in August of 1982. Mr. Williams was one of Mr. Pina's first black belts being the first black belt officially tested by Mr. Pina. When he was promoted Mr. Pina passed down his original black belt which Mr. Williams continues to wear until this day.

Mr. Pina began studying Taekwondo under Eduardo "Eddie" Castor. He received his black under Mr. Castor in 1973. Master Eduardo Castor is the Instructor/Owner of Castor's Academy of Taekwondo in Lakewood, CO. He started Training in Moo Duk Kwan TaeKwondo while stationed in Korea with the U.S. Army in 1963. Mr. Castor trained under the tutelage of 10th Dan Grand Master, Bobby Kim for over 40 years and currently holds a 8th Dan (degree) Black Belt.

In the late 70's Mr. Williams trained under Sam Price. In the 60's Mr. Price attended a tournament where he met Russ Perrone, one of Mr. Kim’s Black Belts in Tae Kwon Do. Perrone invited Mr. Price to train with him and Mr. Kim any time he was in Colorado. Mr. Price took them up on their offer and trained with them about once a month, when possible, for the next couple of years. During this time, Mr. Perrone promoted Sam to Black Belt in order for Sam to be able to compete as a member of Mr. Kim’s tournament fighting team. Then, in about 1972, Sam met James Henshaw in Hutchinson. Henshaw had been stationed with the US Army in Sachebo, Japan and had his Black Belt in Japanese Go Ju Ryu Karate. Sam studied with Mr. Henshaw and was promoted to Black Belt in GoJu Ryu Karate.

Mr. Williams being rooted in two strong classical martial arts continued to train with other notable martial artists in various systems learning their styles, systems and weapons. His years of study and training have made him one of the best instructors in Kansas.

NEW STUDENTS

Cayden, Gagnon, Dawson, Brayden, Canyon, Cade

Alex Graduates from Lil' Dragons

Lazarus

Lucas

KANSAS SUPERFIGHTS SNOWMEGGADON
January 28, 2012 Results:

Zack Perry
1st Place 8-9 Novice Kata
2nd Place Kumite

Dakota Douglas
2nd Place 8-9 Novice Kata
1st Place Kumite

Taty Huhn 
1st Place 11-12 Int. Kata
1st Place Weapons Kata
2nd Place Kumite

Christine Warring
1st Place Black Belt Kata
1st Place Weapons Kata
1st Place Kumite

FEBRUARY 4TH, 2012 BELT TEST

Tate Sazama - Jr. Brown
Taty Huhn - Jr. Brown
Nolan Clark - Purple
Jolea Wheeler - Jr. Purple
Levi Geesling - Jr. Purple
Shayla Johnson - Jr. Purple
Madison Francis - Jr. Green

SEVEN TRAINING PRECEPTS

Karate is a martial art. You must practice with the utmost seriousness from the very beginning. This means going beyond being simply diligent or sincere in your training. In every step, in every movement of your hand, you must imagine yourself facing an opponent with a drawn sword. Each and every punch must be made with your entire body behind it, with the feeling of destroying your opponent with a single blow. You must believe that if your punch fails, you will forfeit your own life.

Try to do exactly as you are taught without complaining or quibbling. Only those lacking zeal and unwilling to face up to themselves resort to quibbling. You cannot train through words. You must learn through your body. Enduring pain and anguish as you strive to discipline and polish yourself; you must believe that if others can do it, you can do it too.

When you are learning a new technique, practice it wholeheartedly until you truly understand it. Do not crave to know everything all at once. Practice painstakingly. Karate has many techniques and kata. Do not fall into the trap of thinking that because there is so much to learn, you should learn everything in a general way. Don’t pretend to be a great master and don’t try to show off your strength. It is absurd that many of those practicing the martial arts feel they must make a show of being a martial artist. The tendency to act big or superior is usually most conspicuous among novices. By acting that way, they degrade and ruin the reputation of those seriously practicing martial arts.

Remember that you must always have a deep regard for courtesy, and must be respectful and obedient towards your seniors. There is no martial art that does not stress the importance of courtesy and respectful manners.

You must ignore the bad and adopt the good. When you observe the practice of others and discover something that you should learn, try to master it without hesitation. If you see a man sliding into idleness, examine yourself with strict eyes. When you see a man who is particularly good at kicking, ask yourself why his kick is so good. How can you learn to kick like that; how does your kick differ? In this manner, you should be able to devise a method to improve your kick. When you see a man that does not seem to improve, again ask yourself why. Maybe he does not train enough or maybe he lacks determination. Ask yourself, does not the same hold true for you?

Think of everyday life as karate training. Do not think of karate as only belonging to the dojo, nor only as a fighting method. The spirit of karate practice and the elements of training are applicable to each and every aspect of our daily lives.

Master Gichin Funakoshi

KARATE-DO NYUMON

If you or your employer would like to make a donation to the school to help purchase equipment or help a disadvantaged youth take martial arts lessons please fill out this form or pick one up at the school.

PROMOTIONS

February 2012

Tate Sazama - Jr. Brown
Taty Huhn - Jr. Brown
Nolan Clark - Purple
Jolea Wheeler - Jr. Purple
Levi Geesling - Jr. Purple
Shayla Johnson - Jr. Purple
Madison Francis - Jr. Green

KANSAS SUPERFIGHTS SNOWMEGGADON

Karate Tournament Results
January 28, 2012 Results:

Zack Perry 
1st Place 8-9 Novice Kata
2nd Place Kumite

Dakota Douglas 
2nd Place 8-9 Novice Kata
1st Place Kumite

Taty Huhn 
1st Place 11-12 Int. Kata
1st Place Weapons Kata
2nd Place Kumite

Christine Warring 
1st Place Black Belt Kata
1st Place Weapons Kata
1st Place Kumite

January 2012 Newsletter

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

HOLIDAY CLASS SCHEDULES

American Karate will be closed Monday New Years day, January 1st. Classes will resume Tuesday with the Adult classes on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday being open 6:30 to 8:00 on Tuesday and Thursday and 7:30-8:30 on Wednesday. Lil’ Dragons and Youth Karate hours will remain the same.

Holiday Schedule for 2012
There will be no classes on these days.

New Year's Day	Monday	January 2, 2012
Martin Luther King Day	Monday	January 16, 2012
Memorial Day	Monday	May 28, 2012
Independence Day	Wednesday	July 4, 2012
Labor Day	Monday	September 3, 2012
Veterans Day	Monday	November 12, 2012
Thanksgiving Day	Thursday	November 22, 2012
Thanksgiving Friday	Friday	November 23, 2012
Christmas	Monday	December 24, 2012
Christmas	Tuesday	December 25, 2012

CHANGES AND ADDITIONS FOR 2012

There will be a few changes for the New Year. This will be the year for upgrade programs. Weapons training will be an upgrade program. Weapons training start at purple belt level. The Leadership Program will be an upgrade also starting at the purple belt level. This program will work on enhancing the students leadership skills. These programs are additional to your monthly tuition. Those students that are purple belt level and above prior to classes starting will be grandfathered in with no tuition change.

Weapons Class $10.00 per month
Leadership Program $10.00 per month

Dates and times to be announced.

BUSHIDO VIIRTUE #4 Rei - Respect

I’ve had lots of people ask me why we bow in martial arts. What I never knew until now was that the commanding word in Japanese that a sensei uses to instruct his students to bow – “rei” – is also the word for respect, the “why” we bow.

Dictionary.com states that respect as a noun means “esteem for or a sense of the worth or excellence of a person, a personal quality or ability, or something considered as a manifestation of a personal quality or ability” or “deference to a right, privilege, privileged position, or someone or something considered to have certain rights or privileges; proper acceptance or courtesy”. As a verb, respect means “to hold in esteem or honor”, or “to show regard or consideration for”, or “to refrain from intruding upon or interfering with”. The kanji character is also translated as “thanking; gratitude”. This is what we learn bowing is all about – thanking our sensei for teaching, our fellow karate-ka for working out with us, whoever pays the bills that keeps our dojo open, all those who’ve trained before us so we can learn, etc.

Interestingly, Nitobe treats this virtue as politeness. He says, “Politeness is a poor virtue, if it is actuated only by a fear of offending good taste, whereas it should be the outward manifestation of a sympathetic regard for the feelings of others. It also implies a due regard for the fitness of things, therefore due respect to social positions; for these latter express no plutocratic distinctions, but were originally distinctions for actual merit”. Basically, I believe this means that respect means nothing if it’s only given because you feel like you have to, or you’re scared into it. It’s supposed to be a reflection of what you really feel – an admiration, an appreciation for the person, place or thing.

The rituals that we have in martial arts were developed as training devices for youth and produced “power in repose”. As you practice the seemingly mundane and monotonous motions of a ceremony (or kata perhaps), you begin to understand what Nitobe describes: “[the ceremony] denotes the result of long observation as to the most appropriate method of achieving a certain result. If there is anything to do, there is certainly a best way to do it, and the best way is both the most economical and the most graceful”. Our elders, senseis, instructors, and the great masters of old have learned, fine-tuned, and passed on to us this knowledge (basics, kata, dojo etiquette, etc). We show them respect when we give 110% in our efforts to practice what they’ve taught us. We also show them respect when we respect others in martial arts, no matter their background, style, or differences.

So, gi (rectitude) is the compass that points north, yu (courage) is the gut-level decision to go north, jin (benevolence) is the mindframe of helping others on their journey north with you … then let’s add to that – rei (respect) is the outward actions shown by you to your instructors, fellow karate-ka, and yourself as you journey north.

What does this look like? We bow when we enter the dojo, the training floor, before and after kata, to our partners, to our instructors. We line up our shoes as carefully and meticulously as we can. We keep our uniforms clean and in good repair. We stay silent during class so we can listen, then learn, then practice. We bow to black belts when they enter the room. At tournaments, we still practice what we’ve learned even if others don’t. We dig deep and practice with all that we have.

Be prepared for those who claim you are OCD. Even Nitobe noted Western criticism for the seemingly ridiculous attention placed on Japanese ceremonial observations. But remember – respect is not something you demonstrate to win someone’s approval. Again, bushido is a way of life and can’t simply be checked in and out at the dojo door. If respect is simply an outward manifestation of rectitude, courage, and benevolence; then we should be showing a lot of respect.

Now that we’ve investigated where we are regarding the previous three bushido virtues, let’s begin looking at where we can improve how we let it show in terms of respect. Start by thinking through all the little bitty details at the dojo. Are you just going through the motions of bowing, putting your shoes in line, etc? Or are you aware of the respect attached to these actions? Where can you take this into your life outside the dojo?

By Cristine Warring, AKMS Sedan, Kansas

MARTIAL ARTS MASTERY

Karate's great wisdom is that physical ability alone does not qualify an individual for the title of " Master". We have seen and known outstanding technicians who have worked long and hard to achieve mastery, and failed because they could not conceive that physical ability is only the first step on the ladder. Wisdom is the combination of the physical and spiritual, to which moral qualities such as humility, courtesy, sympathy, patience, and impassiveness must be added. When these elements art combined, mastery are in reach.

In the East, Karate was not a hobby to be sampled then discarded. It was viewed as a labor of a lifetime, and a voyage of discovery, that started from the acheivements of those that have gone before. There was no quick way to "mastery"; progress came slowly and painfully, not lessening in severity, intensity, strength, or pace. Being exposed to many sources of knowledge over an extended period, the student became an instructor as naturally as a blossom becomes fruit, never rushing the normal progression of time. Depth of knowledge was prized. As Shotokan founder and master, Gichin Funakoshi stated, " The old masters used to keep a narrow field but ploughed a deep furrow. Present day students have a broad field but only plough a narrow furrow."

If you or your employer would like to make a donation to the school to help purchase equipment or help a disadvantaged youth take martial arts lessons please fill out this form or pick one up at the school.