February 2017 Newsletter

Excellence is the result of high intension, sincere effort and intelligent execution.
YOUTH NOVICE CLASSES
On January 9th American Karate started an addition to the Youth Novice Class. Mondays will only be for new enrollments and novice students with up to two (2) stripes on their belt. We hope to get some sound basics instilled in order for them to make a smoother transition into the intermediate classes. This group of students may still attend class on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

KATA SEMINAR
On Saturday, February 11th Darci York will be at American Karate to do a workshop on Classical Kata. This workshop is open to all AKMS Black Belts. Darci is from Joplin, Missouri and her home school is Kellison Academy of Martial Arts. Darci is a local, state, national and international champion. She is a member of the Amerikick National Karate Team and recently competed in Italy where she brought back 7 gold and 1 bronze medals.

TRY MARTIAL ARTS…GIVE YOURSELF AN EDGE
The martial arts are not a cure all for everything that could possibly happen to you. But children are being bullied, home grown and planted terrorist are terrorizing our homeland and we as Americans are being killed and still subject to harm when we travel abroad. One thing the martial arts can do is give you an edge. That edge could be something as simple as knowing and understanding your environment, knowing when and where to exit your personal and work environment or knowing when or where to hide or barricade yourself. This thought process could also work in our schools. These are all primary to the physical aspects of martial arts training. The physical side of the martial arts gives you tools to protect yourself or others. The world is changing and as it continues to change negatively we continue to travel across the nation or abroad with the thought process that, “Things always happen to someone else but they can never happen to me”. Bad things happen to good people. Those that we look to for protection can’t always be where we need them to be so why not give yourself an edge? Try martial arts.
Mr. Williams, Chief Instructor American Karate & Martial Science

DAMSEL IN DEFENSE
American Karate is a distributor of Damsel in Defense personal protection products. Our mission is to equip, empower and educate women to protect themselves and their families. We are not only arming others but also offering empowerment and healing to those affected by assault. We offer personal protection products to keep women safe! Our Security “On The Go” products allow you to leave home with peace of mind. Our best selling Stun Guns and Pepper Sprays arm you with protection against any physical threat. We also offer concealment purses and Identity Theft and Credit protection services. Check out our products catalog at the Dojo or see what is on display in our Pro Shop. Visit our website at http://www.mydamselpro.net/PRO15430/. our Daphne Concealed Collection allows you to carry your protection with confidence!

• Digital protection from unseen dangers with Digital Defense - a single, simple to use protection plan.
• Lastly, our Daphne Concealed Collection allows you to carry your protection with confidence!
• Digital protection from unseen dangers with Digital Defense - a single, simple to use protection plan.

MEMBER SOLUTIONS
Member Solutions is the full-service billing and account management center used by American Karate & Martial Science. Through the Customer Account Center, customers can make payments securely online, view account history, and modify contact information. Member Solutions allows me to teach classes and not worry about how and when I am getting paid. When you enroll at our school you also enter into a short financial contract with Member Solutions. If you ever have a problem with your account, contact them. If you have fulfilled your contract your account goes month to month instead of another six month or year. If you ever have to discontinue classes you need to contact them and let them know you want to do a 30 day notice to discontinue your account. You can contact Member Solutions or Customer Account Services at (888) 277-4408 or customerservice@membersolutions.com, including payment information. 

TOURNAMENTS AND PROMOTIONS
MICKEY GOMEZ’S WICHITA OPEN (TBA)
Wichita, Kansas
CONTACT: Mickey Gomez at 316-838-8210 or 316-838-4478 

KC CHALLENGE
Saturday, February 18th, 2017
Rockhurst High School
9301 Stateline Road
Kansas City, MO.
CONTACT: Jarrett Leiker at 913-432-2787

AMERICAN SPORT KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS
Saturday, March 11, 2017
Trailridge Middle School
7500 Quivira
Lenexa, Kansas
CONTACT: David Clifton at 913-441-9999

St. JUDE BENEFIT TOURNAMENT
Saturday, April 1st, 2017
Christ the King Church
25th and Wanamaker
Topeka, Kansas
CONTACT: Pam Johansen at 785-844-0050

GREEN VALLEY KARATE OPEN
Saturday, April 22nd, 2017
Stony Point Elementary School
1001 Ryan Road
Grain Valley, Missouri
CONTACT: Mark Long at 816-257-6933

SAM PRICE SUMMER KICK OFF (TBA)
Hutchinson, Kansas
CONTACT: Sam or Jessica Price 620-669-9051

KANSAS SUNFLOWER STATE GAMES
Saturday, July 15th, 2017
Kansas Expocenter 1 Expocenter Drive
Topeka, Kansas
CONTACT: Tony Mielenz 785-554-4220 anthonymielenz@yahoo.com

OZARK MOUNTAIN NATIONALS CLAIM THE MOUNTAIN
Saturday, July 29, 2017
Ramada Oasis Inn
2546 N. Glenstone
Springfield, Missouri
CONTACT: Richard Osborne Jr. 417-496-5038

WHO’S WHO AT AKMS
Name: Lisa Johnson
Nick Name: N/A
Rank: First degree Black Belt
When did you start martial arts? I started November of 2008.
What inspired you to start martial arts training? My daughter Shayla was in Little Dragons and I saw the fliers for women’s self defense and my husband Roy has always wanted me to learn self defense so he talked me into going. The rest is pretty much history, I made a quick connection to the ladies that were already in martial arts class and they told me to just show up and I did. I haven’t turned back!
What were you looking for in an instructor? I honestly wasn’t really looking at the instructor to be honest...since Shayla was already taking Little Dragon classes with Mr. Williams I already knew how he was, disciplined.
Have you studied other styles of martial arts? What was the martial art? NO
When did you achieve your black belt? August 17th, 2013
What was training like when you started? My training is real similar to how it is now except that we discuss things more in depth. Mr. Williams allows more questions so that we understand why we are doing something the way we do it.
What is your main focus of training, Self Defense, Competition or both? More so self defense, I don’t compete a lot.
What are your current martial arts goals? My goals really have never changed, I am always trying to get better at my katas, and more importantly myself defense. One thing I am trying harder at is to hit my targets more accurately on each individual I work with.
What would you tell anyone looking to get into the martial arts? It is a lot of fun, it is hard work, you will be sore but learning how to protect yourself is so important!!!! Being in Martial Arts is your journey, you aren’t competing with anyone else but yourself!

Get to know the Black Belts and certified instructors at American Karate. When any of our black belts, Third Degree (Dan) and over, enter the Dojo call the class to attention so that they may be acknowledged.
Mr. Williams, Chief Instructor

January 2017 Newsletter

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
Well another year has come and gone. So as you reflect on the year past, did you accomplish any goals or resolutions that you set out to accomplish? If you fell short do you have plans to revisit them this year? Last year I was diagnosed with a deteriorated hip and had a total hip replacement. I had been in pain for a long time but was trying to medicate my problem with exercises from a previous problem I had. My goal this year is to get strength back in my legs and work on my flexibility. I have come up with action steps on how to accomplish my goals. Prior to surgery the farthest I could get on my stretch rack was 120 degrees. Even then it felt like someone was sticking a knife on the inside of my hip joint. Over the last two weeks I started my road back to recovery. I am at 130 degrees with only the pain of tight muscles. My short term goal is a comfortable 160 degrees by June and a long term goal of 180 degrees by the end of this year. I challenge you to set short term and long term goals with action steps for this year. Jump start your martial arts journey this year!
--Mr. Williams, Chief Instructor

NEW YEAR SPECIALS FOR JANUARY
This month through January 31st all new enrollments for Individual and Family Plans will be 15% off for the first three months. Then they will be adjusted to the current rates. Tell your friends and family about this great special order!

YOUTH NOVICE CLASSES
On Monday, January 9th we will start an addition to the Youth Novice Class. Mondays will only be for new enrollments and novice students with up to two (2) stripes on their belt. We hope to get some sound basics instilled in order for them to make a smoother transition into the intermediate classes. This group of students may still attend class on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

TOURNAMENTS AND PROMOTIONS
WELLS BRIDGES KARATE TOURNAMENT RESULTS
Saturday, December 3rd, 2016
Joshua Busue 1st Place Novice Sparring

MARK LONG’S WINTER KICK OUT RESULTS
Saturday, December 3rd, 2016
Aaron Whittington 1st Place Black Belt Kata, 1st Place Black Belt Sparring, Grand Champion Kata
Chance Barr 2nd Place Intermediate Kata
Sean Johnson 1st Place Novice Kata, 1st Place Novice Sparring

KC CHALLENGE
Saturday, February 18th, 2017
Rockhurst High School 9301 Stateline Road Kansas City, MO.
CONTACT: Jarrett Leiker at 913-432-2787

PROMOTIONS
Dominic Rivera Green Belt
Brandon Kiatoukaysy Green Belt
Kayla Rose Jr. Green Belt
Lilly Finch Gold Belt
Adam Kiatoulaysy Gold Belt
Andrew Kiatoukaysy Gold Belt
Gabriel Cruz Gold Belt

KATA SEMINAR 
On Saturday, February 11th Darci York will be at American Karate to do a workshop on Classical Kata. This workshop is open to all AKMS Black Belts. Darci is from Joplin, Missouri and her home school is Kellison Academy of Martial Arts. Darci is a local, state, national and international champion. She is a member of the Amerikick National Karate Team and recently competed in Italy where she brought back 7 gold and 1 bronze medals. If you are interested in participating in this workshop let Mr. Williams know as soon as you can. 

WHO’S WHO AT AKMS

Name: Jean Gaeddert
Nick Name: ?
Rank: 6th Degree/Rokudan
When did you start martial arts? January 22, 1996
What inspired you to start martial arts training? As a young girl, I was captivated by the beauty of the martial arts. However, that was not really an option for young girls growing up in Inman, Kansas. When I noticed a coupon in the Hutchinson News for 2 free sessions at Thomas Williams' school (back in 1996), I took advantage!
What were you looking for in an instructor? At the time, I never thought about what kind of expectations I had in an instructor. I just wanted to participate! Now, I see how important the following qualities are:
· Patience
· Creativity
· Communication skills
· Relationship skills
· Respect (for others, for self, for the art, for other martial arts disciplines)
· Passion
· A "Growth Mindset" (willingness to change, evolve, improve, fine-tune)
Have you studied other styles of martial arts? What was the martial art? No
When did you achieve your black belt? October 2002
What was training like when you started? I was an adult in the back row with younger kids! However, that never really bothered me. I knew this was going to be a process, and was fine knowing that my rank placed me where I needed to be. Other adult females welcomed me into the "family." Time and effort were up to me: the more I invested in/out of class, the greater the gains in the art.
What is your main focus of training, Self Defense, Competition or both? Healthy mind, healthy body, balance (literally and figuratively), self-defense What are your current martial arts goals? I like to think of myself as a life-long learner, so my current goal is to simply remain committed to the journey! Hopefully, I am also a role model for younger students in the program.
What would you tell anyone looking to get into the martial arts?
· Compare/visit schools.
· Visit with instructors.
· Observe classes if possible before committing.
· Ask yourself: What do you hope to gain from this experience?

Get to know the Black Belts and certified instructors at American Karate. When any of our black belts, Third Degree (Dan) and over, enter the Dojo call the class to attention so that they may be acknowledged.
Mr. Williams, Chief Instructor

PROMOTIONS

Dominic Rivera Green Belt
Brandon Kiatoukaysy Green Belt
Kayla Rose Jr. Green Belt
Lilly Finch Gold Belt
Adam Kiatoulaysy Gold Belt
Andrew Kiatoukaysy Gold Belt
Gabriel Cruz Gold Belt

MARK LONG’S WINTER KICK OUT

Karate Tournament Results
Saturday, December 3rd, 2016

Aaron Whittington 1st Place Black Belt Kata, 1st Place Black Belt Sparring, Grand Champion Kata
Chance Barr 2nd Place Intermediate Kata
Sean Johnson 1st Place Novice Kata, 1st Place Novice Sparring

WELLS BRIDGES KARATE TOURNAMENT

Karate Tournament Results
Saturday, December 3rd, 2016

Joshua Busue 1st Place Novice Sparring

December 2016 Newsletter

MONTHLY TUITION INCREASE
After the first of the upcoming new year monthly tuition will be going up on individual and family plans. If you have not invested in a Lifetime membership now may be the time to do so. A Lifetime membership is a onetime fee of $50.00. This fee locks your current monthly tuition in at your current tuition price for the life of the school. Keep in mind that as you add members to your plan your tuition will be adjusted accordingly. When you purchase a lifetime membership you will receive a Lifetime Membership Card and your file will be flagged as well.

HOLIDAY GIFT PURCHASES
The Holiday Gift Catalogs by Century Martial Arts Supply are in. We have a few bundles for sparring gear. Pick up a catalog and browse for Christmas. Fill out the order form and bring it back to the Dojo with your payment. The next two orders are going out December 1st and 15th. Don’t procrastinate, specialty items usually go pretty fast!

HOLIDAY SPECIALS ON MONTHLY MEMBERSHIPS
This month on Thanksgiving Day through December 31st all new enrollments for Individual and Family Plans will be 15% off for the first three months. Then they will be adjusted to the current rates. Tell your friends and family about this great special order.

YOUTH NOVICE CLASSES
On Monday, January 9th we will start an addition to the Youth Novice Class. Mondays will only be for new enrollments and novice students with up to two (2) stripes on their belt. We hope to get some sound basics instilled in order for them to make a smoother transition into the intermediate classes. This group of students may still attend class on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

TOURNAMENTS AND PROMOTIONS
Jordan Julian 2nd Degree Black Belt
Andy Lamb Jr. Gold Belt

SAM’S ALL STAR KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS
Saturday, November 12th, 2016
RESULTS:
Andy Lamb 7-8 1st Place Novice Kata, 2nd Place Novice Kumite

WELLS BRIDGES KARATE TOURNAMENT 
Saturday, December 3rd, 2016
Central Park Community Center
1534 S.W. Clay
Topeka, Kansas

MARK LONG’S WINTER KICK OUT
Saturday, December 3rd, 2016
Stoney Point Elementary School
1001 Ryan Road
Grain Valley, MO.
CONTACT: Mark Long 816-257-6933

WHO’S WHO AT AKMS

Name: Eddie L. Alexander
Rank: BB Second Dan
When did you start martial arts? At a around the age of 12 years old with my Father and brother at Sam Price’s Hutchinson School of Karate.
What inspired you to start martial arts training? My father is the one that started me on the journey along with my brother.
What were you looking for in an instructor? An instructor should lead by example, and have knowledge of the real world. What would work and what would not?
Have you studied other styles of martial arts? What was the martial art? Yes, Tae Kwon Do Moo Do Kwan.
When did you achieve your black belt? In 2005 from Mr. Manuel Pina of Freedom Moo Duk Kwan.
What was training like when you started? It was fun, exciting and learning process. We did lots of push-ups and was not allowed to ask questions. We listened and absorbed the knowledge we were given.
What is your main focus of training, Self Defense, Competition or both? To be accurate, fast and control in Self Defense, Competition and life.
What are your current martial arts goals? To improve my chamber on my kicks, foot work in my Kata and increase my knowledge of the Art, weapons and different styles.
What would you tell anyone looking to get into the martial arts? It is worth doing, it’s fun. You learn more than what you realize. It becomes a life style and changes you in a positive way.

Get to know the Black Belts and certified instructors at American Karate. When any of our black belts, Third Degree (Dan) and over, enter the Dojo call the class to attention so that they may be acknowledged.
Mr. Williams, Chief Instructor

Holiday Special

SAM’S ALL STAR KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Karate Tournament Results
Saturday, November 12th, 2016

Andy Lamb 7-8 1st Place Novice Kata, 2nd Place Novice Kumite

PROMOTIONS

Jordan Julian 2nd Degree Black Belt
Andy Lamb Jr. Gold Belt

November 2016 Newletter

“We are what we do repeatedly. Excellence then, is not an act, but a habit.”

MONTHLY TUITION INCREASE
After the first of the upcoming New Year monthly tuition will be going up on individual and family plans. If you have not invested in a Lifetime membership now may be the time to do so. A Lifetime membership is a onetime fee of $50.00. This fee locks your current monthly tuition in at your current tuition price for the life of the school. Keep in mind that as you add members to your plan your tuition will be adjusted accordingly. When your purchase a lifetime membership you will receive a Lifetime Membership Card and your file will be flagged as well.

WOMEN’S SELF DEFENSE
Twice a year during the months of April and October we offer a free workshop for Women’s Self Defense. Last month during Domestic Violence Awareness month we had twenty-one ladies participate. The ladies were introduced to new skills and worked hard. We also had several ladies that attended the April workshop shop up for a refresher. We also introduced some new personal defense tools from Damsel in Defense. Damsel in Defense is a product line that offers pepper sprays, impact weapons and stun guns as well as other personal defense products. I want to thank Tabitha and Melissa two of our area Damsel Pros for setting up a booth to showcase our product line. If you are interested in providing yourself with a defensive edge drop by the karate school or visit our website at http://www.mydamselpro.net/PRO15430/

HALL OF FAME INDUCTION
On October 1st Mr. Williams was grandfathered into The World of Martial Arts Association Hall of Fame for his time in training, instruction and community service. Potential inductees are reviewed by a panel of 9th and 10th Degree master instructors from various disciplines. TWOMAA is located in Columbus, Ohio and is one of the few martial arts halls of fame that is housed in an actual building or facility. The World of Martial Arts Hall of Fame was developed to be more than just a mere museum, it focuses on education, training, history and cultural aspects of martial arts from around the globe. Not only does this include the Asian arts, but arts that originate from Africa, the Middle East, even Europe. It encompasses a multitude of martial arts from around the world. 

TOURNAMENTS
Kent Clayborn’s Tournament Results
Saturday, October 15th, 2016
El Dorado, Kansas
Eddie Alexander - 1st Black Belt Weapons, 1st Black Belt Kata
Sean Johnson - 1st Novice Kata, 1st Novice Sparring
Kayla Rose - 1st Intermediate Kata, 3rd Intermediate Sparring
Lillian Finch - 2nd Novice kata
Andy Lamb - 2nd Novice Kata, 1st Novice Sparring

Binky Furstenberg’s Choptoberfest Results
Saturday, October 22nd, 2016
Springfield, Missouri
Aaron Whittington - 1st 18+ Black Belt Traditional Kata

SAM’S ALL STAR KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS
Saturday, November 12th, 2016
Hutchinson School of Karate-North
3201 North Lorraine Hutchinson, Kansas
CONTACT: Sam or Jessica Price 620-669-9051

WELLS BRIDGES KARATE TOURNAMENT
Location to be announced
Saturday, December 3rd, 2016
Topeka, Kansas

MARK LONG’S WINTER KICK OUT
Saturday, December 3rd, 2016
Stoney Point Elementary School
1001 Ryan Road
Grain Valley, MO
CONTACT: Mark Long 816-257-6933

BULLYING IN USD 308
The School Board of Unified School District 308 is committed to providing a positive and productive learning and working environment. To that end, and in accordance with Kansas law, bullying, including harassment, hazing, intimidation or menacing, by students, District employees and Third Parties on or in District Facilities is strictly prohibited. "Bullying" means any intentional gesture or any intentional written, verbal, electronic or physical act or threat by any student, staff member or parent towards a student or by any student, staff member or parent towards a staff member that is sufficiently severe, persistent or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, threatening or abusive educational environment that a reasonable person, under the circumstances, knows or should know will have the effect of:

• harming a student, staff members, whether physically or mentally; or 
• damaging the property of a student, staff member or Third Party; or 
• subjecting or placing a student, staff member or Third party in reasonable fear of harm; or 
• subjecting or placing a student, staff member or Third Party in reasonable fear of damage to their property. 

Keep in mind that as a student of martial arts with self-defense being our main focus, appropriately defending yourself may not preclude you from certain sanctions that may be imposed by the Principal of the school. These sanctions being in school or out of school suspension.

At American Karate & Martial Science we have a three strikes and you’re out rule when it comes to defending yourself at school.

1. The first incident with a bully your child needs to try to talk, walk or run. Whether successful or not your child needs to report the incident to a teacher and then the parent(s). In turn a parent needs to contact the school and talk to your child’s teacher about your child taking classes for self-defense.
2. The second incident with a bully your child needs to try to talk, walk or run. Whether successful or not your child needs to report the incident to a teacher and then the parent(s). In turn a parent needs to contact the school and talk to the Principal or Assistant Principal and remind them that your child is taking classes for self-defense.
3. The third incident with a bully your child needs to try to talk, walk, run or defend him/herself. Whether successful or not you can count on a call from the Principal or Assistant Principal.

Rules are put in place for your child’s safety but may not always appear to be fair based on the situation and decision making of the School Board.
--Mr. Williams, Chief Instructor

Binky Furstenberg’s Choptoberfest

Karate Tournament Results
Saturday, October 22nd, 2016
Springfield, Missouri

Aaron Whittington - 1st 18+ Black Belt Traditional Kata

Kent Clayborn’s Tournament

Karate Tournament Results
Saturday, October 15th, 2016
El Dorado, Kansas

Eddie Alexander - 1st Black Belt Weapons, 1st Black Belt Kata
Sean Johnson - 1st Novice Kata, 1st Novice Sparring
Kayla Rose - 1st Intermediate Kata, 3rd Intermediate Sparring
Lillian Finch - 2nd Novice kata
Andy Lamb - 2nd Novice Kata, 1st Novice Sparring

October 2016 Newletter

“We are what we do repeatedly. Excellence then, is not an act, but a habit.” 

PROMOTIONS
SEPTEMBER, 2016 BELT TEST
Lo Xao Kiatoukaysy - Brown Belt
Everette Gould - Brown Belt
Shalee Mog - Black Belt

TOURNAMENTS
KENT CLAYBORNS 25TH ANNUAL TOURNAMENT
Saturday, October 15th 2016
El Dorado High School Recreation Center
410 McCollum Rd.
El Dorado, Kansas
CONTACT: Kent Clayborn 316-214-6320

YOUTH AND COMPETITION
If your child has never competed in a karate tournament before, you may have some misconceptions of what’s involved. In fact, there are many great benefits that your child will derive from participating in a karate tournament and here are five of them.

1. Put your skills to the test In karate, as in most other sports, you spend a lot of time and energy going through trainings and drills to improve your skills and get better at karate. The field of play in karate is not the local stadium but the karate tournament. Why should your child spend so much time in karate class working on kicks, punches, flexibility and learn all those sparring combinations and strategies if they never get the opportunity to test their skills? That’s like studying so hard for a test they’ll never take!

2. Up your game by sparring new opponents When you’ve trained with a particular group of individuals, over time it becomes easy for you to tell their strengths as well as their weaknesses. So you know that Cindi’s sidekick is powerful but she drops her hands or that Jeff has a great blitz and all you have to do to avoid him is to change your angle. When you know all these, you stop learning and you stop getting better. That is one of the best things about karate tournaments. It forces you to compete with people you don’t know, making you up your game.

3. See the world beyond your karate school You know how when you travel for the first time, or read a book about another culture, you realize that the world is way bigger than your hometown? Well that’s what a karate tournament does for your child. Your child (and you) gets to see displays by some of the best martial artists in the area. It opens their eyes, and mind, to see that the world is way bigger than their karate school. Plus you get to meet a lot of cool people who may become famous actors tomorrow. For example, did you know that Twilight star Taylor Lautner toured the karate tournament circuit before becoming a movie heartthrob?

4. Bond with your classmates Karate is not technically a team sport, but when you’re taking classe in a place like Urban Martial Arts, you build a kind of team spirit with every one of your classmates. And when you go to a karate tournament, the camaraderie is boosted even more. When one person is sparring, the whole group comes out to cheer and if one person loses or gets hurt the whole group consoles the person. Plus there is a ton of fun involved in karate tournaments which is a great opportunity for bonding.

5. Strengthen your character The ultimate aim of most martial arts is to build the character of the participants. Karate is not different. Of course going into the tournament, you should have winning as your goal. However, participants should realize that no matter the outcome, they will learn a great deal from the experience. Karate tournaments are a character building exercise, helping some achieve humility and others gain confidence. Whatever your child’s experience level or skill, karate tournaments are just the thing for them. They’ll learn a lot, meet a lot of new people and have new adventures while having fun.
Urban Martial Arts, Brooklyn New York

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE MONTH & WOMEN’S SELF DEFENSE
OCTOBER 22, 2016
October, 2016 is Domestic Violence Awareness Month 2016. Violence Awareness Month 1 in 3 women are beaten or raped in their lifetime. Victims are deprived of who they are, liberty, and security, and face tremendous threats to their health and safety. Join us for Women’s Self Defense on Saturday, October 22nd. This is a free workshop for young ladies and women 13-Over. This year we will have a booth set up by a distributor from Damsel in Defense. There will be pepper sprays, stun guns, impact weapons and information on how to keep you and your loved ones safe from domestic and sexual assault. If you are not planning on making the workshop but are interested in self defense product go to the following website http://www.mydamselpro.net/PRO15430.

AKMS BLACK BELT SEEKING A POSITION ON TEAM USA
Aaron started the martial arts with Mr. Thomas Williams when he was seven years old. He developed into a strong competitor early on. When he was about nine years old he was competing at a tournament and he was in a bad position. His opponent had him bent over and was getting ready to strike. Out of nowhere

Aaron executed a hooking heel kick, kicking his opponent in the back of the head. Mr. Williams started calling him “The Wizzard” with two z’s because it is slang for his instinctive skill. Mr. Williams said only a wizard could do that! Aaron and Mr. Williams reconnected about four months ago. And within that time Aaron has managed to get back into the tournament scene. In the last month he has taken first place in two separate national competitions. When not competing, Aaron is either in class, assisting Mr. Williams with various classes or training for his next event.

Aaron’s short term goal is to get on the NASKA, North American Sports Karate Association tournament circuit. This is a national coast to coast circuit with competitors coming from all over the United States. His long term goal is to obtain a spot next year on the World Karate Associations Team USA. They compete in Europe every year in the fall. Like any other major sport, in order to accomplish his goals he will need to obtain sponsors. Aaron is currently seeking sponsors and has a gofundme page. If anyone knows of individuals or businesses that sponsor athletes let him know.

AKMS PRO SHOP, A ONE STOP SHOP
American Karate’s Pro Shop is a one stop shop for all of your martial arts and fitness needs. Everything you need for your martial arts journey can be purchased at or through the school. Due to lack of storage space we don’t keep a lot of variety of sparring gear in stock. Anything that you would need we can have within 48 hours. For your health, wellness and self defense needs we are also distributors of Advocare, Le-vel Thrive and Damsel in Defense products. Feel free to browse our websites and place orders at the school or online. 

Advocare: http://www.advocare.com/150837167/
Le-vel: https://thrivingakms.le-vel.com/
Damsel Pro http://www.mydamselpro.net/PRO15430/

PROMOTIONS

September 2016

Lo Xao Kiatoukaysy - Brown Belt
Everette Gould - Brown Belt
Shalee Mog - Black Belt

FREE women's Self Defense

September 2016 Newletter

“We are what we do repeatedly. Excellence then, is not an act, but a habit.” 

CLASS TIMES
School is back in session and we are back to regular hours for the adult classes. Monday and Wednesday - Beginner Adults - 7:30-8:30
Tuesday and Thursday - Intermediate Adults - 6:30-7:30
Tuesday and Thursday - Advanced Adults - 7:30-8:30

PROMOTIONS
AUGUST 13TH, 2016 BELT TEST
Jesse Beck - Gold Belt
Larisa Reyes - Gold Belt
Sean Johnson - Gold Belt
Matthew Meadows - Gold Belt
Grace Kiatoukaysy - Green Belt
Dylan Kiatoukaysy - Green Belt
Chance Barr - Purple Belt

TOURNAMENTS
WHEAT STATE CLASSIC RESULTS
Saturday, August 27th, 2016
Kayla Rose 6-7 Novice 1st Place Kata
Haley Stucky 6-7 Intermediate 2nd Place Kumite
Dylan Kiatoukaysy 8-9 Intermediate 2nd Place Kata
Jesse Beck 14-15 Novice 1st Place Kata, 2nd Place Kumite
Larisa Reyes 18-Over Novice 2nd Place Kata, 1st Place
Kumite LoXao Kiatoukaysy 40-Over Intermediate 2nd Place Kata, 1st Place Kumite
Aaron Whittington BB Traditional 1st Place Kata

WEAPONS SEMINAR
On Saturday, September 3rd Mr. Sam Jenkins conducted a workshop on the katana (samurai sword). The Japanese katana is a very unique weapon. It takes a lot of practice and patience. Every one learned a lot and had a great time. We look forward to another workshop in the near future.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE MONTH
OCTOBER 22, 2016
October, 2016 is Domestic Violence Awareness Month 2016. Violence Awareness Month 1 in 3 women are beaten or raped in their lifetime. Victims are deprived of who they are, liberty, and security, and face tremendous threats to their health and safety. Join us for Women’s Self Defense on Saturday, October 22nd. This is a free workshop for young ladies and women 13-Over. For more information and statistics about Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence go to the following website http://www.ncadv.org/learn-more/statistics.

MEMBER SOLUTIONS
Member Solutions is the full-service billing and account management center used by American Karate & Martial Science. Through the Customer Account Center, customers can make payments securely online, view account history, and modify account and contact information. Member Solutions allows me to teach classes and not worry about how and when I am getting paid. When you enroll at our school you also enter into a short financial contract with Member Solutions. If you ever have a problem with your account, contact them. If you have fulfilled your contract your account goes month to month instead of another six month or year. If you ever have to discontinue classes you need to contact them and let them know you want to do a 30 day notice to discontinue your account. You can contact Member Solutions or Customer Account Services at (888) 277-4408 or customerservice@membersolutions.com, including payment information.

STRIVING FOR EXCELLENCE
September 2016
The following quote popped up while I was reading the other day: “We are what we do repeatedly. Excellence then, is not an act, but a habit.” I shared it with Mr. Williams and, of course, he invited me to submit an article for the newsletter! This quote resonated with me for a few reasons.

One: Each time we enter Mr. Williams’ dojo, we are challenged to “Strive for Excellence.”

Two: Our students at Ave A Elementary have learned a morning chant with the following verse: “Be safe and be respectful. Be responsible. Excel! We practice these behaviors and we do them very well!”

Three: Having just spent countless hours glued to the TV watching the 2016 Rio Olympics, I am keenly aware of the participants’ individual journeys towards excellence!

How do these connect? What do they all have in common? What do we as a karate family share with students at Ave A Elementary and with Olympic athletes from around the world? I believe our shared vision is a desire to taste excellence!

To be an extraordinary achiever, one must commit to daily excellence. Constantly striving for excellence in every area of your life is ultimately what will determine the quality of your life, no matter what you do for a living. Excellence is not about how much money is in your bank account or what kind of car you drive or what color belt you wear to karate class. Excellence is about waking up each morning and declaring that you will do your best at everything you do and be better than you were the day before.*

Vince Lombardi, former football coach for the Green Bay Packers, once said, “The quality of a person’s life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of endeavor.”

We have the opportunity to commit to daily excellence, to make excellence a habit.

Will we take that challenge?

Jean Gaeddert, AKMS Black Belt/USD 308 Educator

*ideas from Matt Mayberry / “Radicals and Visionaries”

WHEAT STATE CLASSIC

Karate Tournament Results
Saturday, August 27, 2016

Kayla Rose 6-7 Novice 1st Place Kata
Haley Stucky 6-7 Intermediate 2nd Place Kumite
Dylan Kiatoukaysy 8-9 Intermediate 2nd Place Kata
Jesse Beck 14-15 Novice 1st Place Kata, 2nd Place Kumite
Larisa Reyes 18-Over Novice 2nd Place Kata, 1st Place Kumite
LoXao Kiatoukaysy 40-Over Intermediate 2nd Place Kata, 1st Place Kumite 
Aaron Whittington BB Traditional 1st Place Kata

PROMOTIONS

August 13, 2016

Jesse Beck Gold Belt
Larisa Reyes Gold Belt
Sean Johnson Gold Belt
Matthew Meadows Gold Belt
Grace Kiatoukaysy Green Belt
Dylan Kiatoukaysy Green Belt
Chance Barr Purple Belt

August 2016 Newletter

“Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence”

TOURNAMENTS
KANSAS STATE SUNFLOWER GAMES
Saturday, July 9th, 2016

RESULTS
Shelby Alexander 6-7 Novice Bronze
Bodhi Agnew 6-7 Novice Gold and Bronze
Jesse Beck 14-15 Novice Gold
Larisa Reyes 16-17 Novice Gold and Silver
Jake Winters 7-8 Intermediate Gold and Gold
Chance Barr 9-10 Intermediate Gold, Gold and Silver
Eddie Alexander Adult Black Belt Silver and Bronze

WHEAT STATE CLASSIC
Saturday, August 27th, 2016
Wichita Sports Forum
2668 N Greenwich Rd, Wichita, Kansas 67226
CONTACT: TJ Thomas 316-461-9352, tj_thomas@cox.net 316-461-9352 

MARTIAL ARTS…A NEW SEASON
I remember back in the day there were very few martial arts schools. It was a growing thing on the coasts but in this part of the Midwest we had “Karate Clubs”. Many instructors taught in community centers, community halls, YMCA’s and other places like garages and area parks. Back then there were few instructors and their skills had been tested during their tours of duty in the military or in tournaments which were brutal compared to events we attend today. Instructors were territorial of their students and other clubs or schools. If you tried to open a school in some areas you were mentally and or physically persuaded to move on and seek life elsewhere. Likewise, students did not barhop from school to school like they do today. If a student was not a good fit another school was recommended and the two instructors would discuss the student. If a student was moving out of the area, the instructor would recommend an instructor and either make contact with that instructor or send the student with a letter of recommendation.

We have now moved into a new season of martial arts instruction. With this new season there are numerous clubs, schools and facilities where students come and go like we are Westlake, Lowes and the Home Depot. We all have the tools but they come at a different price and with different expectations of how to use them. With that, instructors need to come to the realization that we are now in the consumer world! As consumers prospective students and their parents often fail to check out “all” of the schools in their area. All good and reputable instructors will allow you to watch a class or two and then participate for free a time or two in order for prospective student or their parents to make a decision. The harsh reality for some instructors is that these people are not our students anymore. We cannot afford to be territorial. Whoever pays the monthly tuition is a consumer. Like Westlake, Lowes and the Home Depot, they can and will spend their money where they see fit even if it is at more than one location. The one thing that we have left is the right to refuse service.
Tommy Williams, Chief Instructor
American Karate & Martial Science 

SPARE THE ROD***SPOIL THE CHILD
I know the title of this article made you think about physical discipline. But one of the things that we as martial arts instructors share with almost everyone that spends time teaching or training youth in this day and age is lack of discipline, work ethic and dedication. Athletic coaches tell me all the time that their players want to be the star but they don’t want to do what it takes to be better than the rival position from the other teams.

Back in the day parents brought their kids to us for self defense and or discipline. Parents that were blessed to have more than most wanted their kids to be more disciplined and appreciative in order for them not to grow up as spoiled brats. Martial Arts schools were all rough and tough. You trained to be the best you could be. When it came to tournament competition you knew you were doing well when you placed 1st, 2nd or 3rd. If you didn’t make the top three you went back to the Dojo and WORK!!!

Then we started moving more towards sporting martial arts instead of competition as a test of your skills. Promoters started adding two 3rd place finishes or a 4th place. In some places everyone in the division received a placing award. As the discipline and work ethic started to diminish at home, it diminished in the Dojo as well. Instead of working hard to compete for a better placing, students showed no concern for progression or quit competing.

Parents, Educators and Coaches are having a growing concern for the future of our youth. As a martial arts instructor I am as well. Hard work and healthy competition helps to build character and confidence. I am not a tournament promoter but if I was I would go back to three places for the top competitors. I believe as instructors the hard work, discipline, team and character building of the martial arts is a support system for the family unit. I believe that if we do not have an attainable standard for our students to achieve, if we don’t put them in a position to train hard and compete hard, we as instructors have spared the rod and spoiled the child.
Mr. Williams, Chief Instructor

WEAPONS SEMINAR
On Saturday, September 3rd we will be hosting a weapons seminar. Mr. Sam Jenkins will be at American Karate to do a workshop on the katana (kenjutsu) and kama. This workshop is for those currently working on these two weapons. We will do sword training in the morning, take a lunch break then finish with the kama in the afternoon. There will be more information on this workshop as it draws near.

MEMBER SOLUTIONS
Member Solutions is the full-service billing and account management center used by American Karate & Martial Science. Through the Customer Account Center, customers can make payments securely online, view account history, and modify account and contact information. Member Solutions allows me to teach classes and not worry about how and when I am getting paid. When you enroll at our school you also enter into a short financial contract with Member Solutions. If you ever have a problem with your account, contact them. If you have fulfilled your contract your account goes month to month instead of another six month or year. If you ever have to discontinue classes you need to contact them and let them know you want to do a 30 day notice to discontinue your account. You can contact Member Solutions or Customer Account Services at (888) 277-4408 or customerservice@membersolutions.com, including payment information.

KANSAS STATE SUNFLOWER GAMES

Karate Tournament Results
Saturday, July 9th, 2016
Topeka, KS

Shelby Alexander 6-7 Novice Bronze
Bodhi Agnew 6-7 Novice Gold and Bronze
Jesse Beck 14-15 Novice Gold
Larisa Reyes 16-17 Novice Gold and Silver
Jake Winters 7-8 Intermediate Gold and Gold
Chance Barr 9-10 Intermediate Gold, Gold and Silver

Eddie Alexander Adult Black Belt Silver and Bronze