BlogMailBag

2011-10-14T09:59:00.001-07:00

Dear Folks:

The other day a young karate instructor from L.A., JeremyGoulder, came to New York on business and an instructor friend of his, Robb VanDer Volgen a lovely guy who also lives in L.A. and who'd come to NewYork for karate critiquing several years earlier, asked if I'd be willing togive Jeremy some pointers up on our rooftop "dojo," which of course Iwas more than pleased to do. Turned out,as I fully expected, that Jeremy was also a lovely person, and over dinner herefollowing our workout upstairs, he mentioned that he and his brother were filmproducers specializing in documentaries.

He was too modest, for when we pressed him about his (relatively recent)career accomplishments, he told us about a film they had done that began by recordingan unknown street musician in Santa Monica they knew and then going aroundvirtually the entire world with that and other compositions, letting otherstreet musicians listen to the music and then improvising on what they werehearing. The theme, of course, was thatmusic was the only way to heal the soul and build bridges to a more peacefulworld.

We just got the DVD set (it comeswith a CD of all the music as well) and watched it last night. Absolutely fabulous, and the first thing wesaid after coming out of the mesmerized state in which it left us was, If youhaven't already, you folks gotta see it. It'll make you even prouder of the sort of people attracted toUechi-ryu.

It's called Playing for Change.

We're off on a month's assignment in Egypt in a couple ofdays.

All the best,

Dave & Evelyn

Dojo in Georgia

2011-08-17T09:57:00.001-07:00

Dear Mattson Sensei,

My name is Brian Scurlock and I am currently a Sandan in Shohei Ryu Karate. My Sensei is Shelby Kenney (Rokudan) of Brandon,Ms. whose Sensei is Shigeru Takamiyagi of Chatan dojo Okinawa. I recently moved to Snellville ,Ga. in Oct.2010 and hope to start a class at the Centerville Community Center in Snellville,Ga. in Jan.2012(1st available opening). I have traveled to Madison ,Ga. and trained with Chris Peotrowski twice already, he is a Shodan in Uechi Ryu and a fine Karate Ka. Any other contacts in our systems that you know of in this area would be greatly appreciated as it is a 1-11/2 hour drive for me to Chris’s school.
I would enjoy very much meeting anyone in this area, our systems are not as plentiful in the Georgia region.
Thank you for all that you have done to keep the Uechi ryu flame burning brightly for all to see.

Brian Scurlock
Service supervisor
Scale Systems Division

Virginia Dojo sensei was at SummerFest

2011-08-09T10:50:00.001-07:00

Thank you Sensei for allowing me to experience Summerfest. It was fantastic! Such a treat to meet everyone, and work to with so many talented and generous instructors. It was very inspiring, and I am honored to have been witness to Bills promotion. It was also a great pleasure to meet your charming wife. My sincerest gratitude for your generosity.

Respectfully,
Victoria

Frank Nash

2011-08-09T05:09:00.001-07:00

Sensei,

Thanks so much for a terrific weekend. Once again I had another wonderful experience.
It was an honor and a privilege to be present for the Masters’ Ceremony and festivities.
Thanks again for keeping the Summer Fest tradition alive.
I am looking forward to next year. Have a safe trip back to Florida.

Best regards,
Frank

Phil Porter dies

2011-08-09T05:03:00.000-07:00

To the martial arts community:

O’Sensei passed away at 2:30 P.M. today, Sunday August 7, 2011. He was diagnosed with terminal cancer of the liver and pancreas. He slipped into a coma Thursday morning and did not regain consciousness. While I understand not everyone agreed with Phil, we all must recognize his contribution to Judo and the other martial arts. Please join with me in wishing his family well.
Michael C. Makoid, Ph.D.
Executive Director
United States Martial Arts Association

Feeding Crane Seminar Presenter

2011-08-09T04:59:00.000-07:00

Mattson sensei,

I just wanted to say thanks for a fun weekend. I enjoyed the summerfest, and had a good time sharing some of the basics of the Feeding Crane with folks and doing the demo on Saturday night. You have a very nice group of students, and the event had a great atmosphere.

Take care, and thanks again. I will also be sure to be in touch with you as soon as I have Liu sifu's seminar dates finalized for October.

cheers,

Fred

Masters Magazine announcement

2011-01-17T05:51:00.000-08:00

Sent: Monday, January 17, 2011 7:58 AM
To: George
Subject: MAGAZINE and BOOK

Dear Sensei, your article is printed. We have copies next week and also the full interview just been printed in KARATE MASTERS Vol. 4 Please give an address to send you some copies!
Warmest regards!
Jose
========================
Hi Jose:
My students have been "bugging" Books a Million for the past few weeks and were standing in line yesterday when the store assured them that the new issue would be on the shelves. I even got excited and drove over to purchase what I believe was their last copy!

You did a great job with the grizzly-old-man pictures you had to work with. Hopefully some of your readers will appreciate my view of traditional MA and will understand how important steady and healthful training is in what many of us practice and love.

Again, thanks Jose.

Best,
George

Superempi quiestion

2011-01-15T16:05:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year Mr. Mattson Sensei;

I was curious as to if you could point me in the right direction to find out more about the Superempi kata. Has it replaced the Seichin kata as number 4? I was a little confused since I don't visit the forums anymore. Or is it just being called the fourth of Master Kanbun's that he brought back? As opposed to three?

Winter Fest sounds so incredibly exciting. I wish we were not so far away and hmmm financially challenged for things like that ;)

Your book looks gorgeous and I wish you extremely great success with it.

Thank you for your time, Sir;
Kerry A Morgan

Hi Kerry:
Trying to catch up on my email.
You can get the superempi dvd on the Uechi store. We have been teaching it for quite a few years and of all the Chinese forms we’ve seen and worked with, this one fits the required Uechi template to qualify as one of our kata.

At this time we just call it a Uechi-ryu “supplemental” kata, but. . . who knows.

Best,

From Bob Moorman's brother. . .

2011-01-09T08:32:00.001-08:00

George:

Many years ago, back in the 60's, a troubled young man happened into your path and you took him in, gave him a place to stay and offered him Karate training; this person went on to become a black belt and opened a school on the West Coast in Encinitas, California-where you used to visit to certify black belt candidates.

This young man was my brother Robert Moorman, or affectionately known as "Bob".

Bob passed away about a dozen years ago, leaving behind a son, Ananda, who continues to live in Encinitas.

I wanted to bring up Bob's memory to you and to express my enduring appreciation for the profound influence you had on his life.

I can see from your e-mails that you remain the warrior that I remember, even as you and I both enter a period at least beyond three score and ten.

I invite you to put some of this in your newsletter.

And again, thank you Peaceful Warrior George.

Jere Moorman/Napa/CA

2010-11-22T02:19:00.000-08:00

Mr. Mattson"

On the suggestion of my sensei, Tracy Rose, from the Northboro dojo ,I hope that I am not being too forward by asking you for direction on a matter which I would like to eventually present to you in the form of a written essay...The topic is the anatomical/kinesiology correctness of the Uechi style (succinctly stated)

I have been a Uechi student for close to 17 years, presently a sandan, I am also a practicing physician for the last 35 years, specializing in cardiology. The more I practice the Uechi-style the more convinced I become of its anatomical correctness and its sound basis in human kinesiology (musculo-skeketal movement) to maximize strength movement and mechanical advantage (in other words: no mythical or supernatural powers...basically perfecting human body mechanics) .

I would like to explore this concept with any reference material or people in the discipline who have similar thoughts , in order to compose an essay...Many of the thoughts which I produce to my sensei and class are my own perceptions and interpretations...I would like to explore if there are other students or masters have thoughts which they could share

John Ferullo
[Hi John... Very interesting topic for discussion. With your permission, I'll post your letter on Bill Glasheen's forum and my mailblog]

Old Student remembers. . .

2010-11-21T07:10:00.000-08:00

Subject: Brockton dojo

Dear Sensei Mattson:

For several years in the late 60s and early 70s I, along with my two
younger brothers, attended children's classes at your Brockton dojo. I
just wanted to drop you a note to thank you for the opportunities the
school presented. While I haven't kept up my study of Uechi, the
discipline and other lessons I learned during those years most certainly
helped me to succeed in school and well beyond.

All best,
James Lowder
http://www.jameslowder.com/The%20Screaming%20Tower.html
===================================================

Dear James:

Many thanks for contacting me and for the kind words regarding your karate experiences in our Brockton dojo.

I've checked your web site and am very impressed with everything you have accomplished.

Please stay in touch and continue to enjoy life. . .

Best,
George
http://uechi-ryu.com

Mount Dora Classes. . .

2010-08-28T09:10:00.000-07:00

Mr. Mattson,

In July you generously included my grandson Andy in your karate classes! He was only visiting for one week however. His attendance at two classes impacted him very positively. I wanted you and all the teachers to know what valuable lessons they are sharing. Thank you so much.

I have written to the mount Dora Parks and Recreation Department sharing my appreciation. Mount Dora and Lake County is very fortunate to have such activities available with dedicated teachers.

Sincerely,

Marjorie Hill

Thank you very much Marjorie, for your very kind letter. Your grandson Andy did very well in class and we are all very pleased with his performance and enthusiastic participation in class. Hopefully he will visit our dojo again and your future.

George E. Mattson

SummerFest 2010 Feedback. . .

2010-08-24T04:30:00.001-07:00

Sensei Mattson:

While this year's economy "2010" may have stymied some people's attendance, I found this Summerfest invigorating, educational and inspirational.

I was able to spend quality time in several workshops, and that same quality time with several of the instructors, answering questions and instructing me in techniques. As usual, I thoroughly enjoyed my time with you doing sanchin on the beach. You always provide me with insight and strategies with which to share with my students.

I enjoyed the casualness and flexibility this year as everyone seemed less pushed and we could do more quality technique and instruction because of this. I reviewed and reestablished many new friendships, an aspect of the Summerfest which may get overlooked. Many of my students know that, as they travel, they would be welcomed in most dojos!

I do hope you continue to have Summerfest as this is a great experience for all. Thank you again for being an inspiration in the martial arts community as well as to each of us individually. I love how you gave me a hug upon my arrival at me I feel honored to be one of your students, and to be in part of this organization!

One suggestion I have for future Summerfest would be to have more specifics about each Uechi kata and or Bunkai. Well we all have the same basics, the variations are fun and interesting to see/learn from others

Thanks again for a great Summerfest!

Yours in Budo,
David Lamb

Dear David:

Many thanks for your very kind message. In spite of the long-distance and travel inconveniences you must suffer to get to Summerfest every year, you always find a way to be at my Friday AM "Sanchin by the Beach"!

The mass maritime Academy has already scheduled us for 2011 and I have already begun working on a new schedule that will include suggestions by you and a number of other seniors and students who have written to me since this year's camp.

I hope you and others will be able to join me for our first Summerfest webinar which will be held during the month of September. Watch the home page for details.

SummerFest 2010 Forum???

2010-02-24T13:10:00.000-08:00

George,

Well I bit the bullet and bought my airline ticket for Summer Fest today. I guess I'm committed now or I should be comitted. I was looking at the lodging and transportation section of the Uechi Web site and started to wonder if there was any place to try and arrange like hotel room sharing or transportation sharing with other fest participants.

It dawned on me that the forum would be a good place to advertise stuff like that but I didn’t see anything. I wonder if you had considered or would be willing to consider setting up a Summerfest 2010 forum on the index where people could arrange sharing for the fest. I was thinking something like classified adds where people can post arrival times at Logan, rental car and hotel room sharing. Also, its been a while since my last fest, does the academy still offer rooms as part of the fest?

What do you think?

Best,
Dan

From Dr. Paul Haydu, Chairman IUKF

2010-02-17T07:05:00.000-08:00

Hi George,

I know you're getting ready for Winterfest. I can't make that, but am planning to attend Summerfest. You must be very busy with the camp, plus arrangements to complete delivery of your latest book. I am looking forward to receiving it, and reading it.

I'm including herein another article written later in December last, which includes ideas and concepts I employ when teaching students. It's a summation of principles I've picked up from outstanding Uechika through the years, combined with concepts that I've learned through my own practice. You could consider this and the prior article to be a contribution toward my teaching certificate.

Please use this material in any way you see fit. I want you to know that Uechi has changed my life for the better in so many ways. If I hadn't walked into your Columbus Ave dojo in 1966, I would not have had this huge gift, that keeps on giving. For this, and your continued teaching, and especially your friendship I will always be grateful !

Best,
Paul

Harry Benfield dies. . .

2009-12-27T15:52:00.000-08:00

Dear George

Apologies for being the bearer of bad news but Harry died, last month, after a long term illness stretching over 5 years known as Pick's disease (a severe form of alzheimers).

Before that he spent the last 15 years teaching with a small group of loyal students with which he continued to train in a very traditional style but also innovated many techniques within a conditioning routine that we nicknamed 'Benny ryu'.

Unfortunately, he stopped teaching about 7 years ago after the dojo was demolished but the signs of the illness were there and he had no motivation to look for another dojo.

If you wish to send a card to his wife then she can be contacted at:

Barbara Benfield
14 Rothbury Road
Liverpool
L14 4AL
England

I'm sure she would appreciate it. If I cna be of any further help please don't hesitate to ask.

Harry Benfield's students

2009-12-27T15:44:00.001-08:00

George
Apologies for the time it has taken to come up with a photo of Harry. On the photo of Harry are to Harry's right, Russ Booth and to his left Alan Sansbury (taken about 1993). Alan was Harry's top student after Rob Kendrick had emigrated to California and be became quite an Urban Myth in certain circles, such was his prowess. Alas, Alan appears to have stopped training seriously around the time Harry went into hospital.
When Harry visited Okinawa in about 1981 both Rob and Alan accompanied him.
I've included a photo of me (the pale one) with Rob Kendrick taken about 1990 at Ahti Kaend's dojo. It appears Rob stopped training 5 or 6 years ago after his latest black belt grading in Okinawa. He was originally one of Harry's students who emigrated in 1983 and would be a great loss to Uechi as he was an exceptional talent. Rob returned to visit his dying father about two years ago and spotted Harry in the same Nursing Home, but was even more shocked to find that communication with Harry was impossible such was the deterioration.

I would love to try and get myself in shape and come out and train with yourself, Harry thought a great deal about you, and often mentioned Bobby Campbell. Yours were names attached to stories that were told to inspire us on many a cold night.
I'll have a word with Alan when I next visit Liverpool and see if he might be up for such a visit and if we could track down Rob then we could make it a proper reunion.
I'll keep in touch, if that's ok?
John Murphy

Nijurokku!

2009-12-02T06:39:00.000-08:00

From: Paul Brennan
Subject: Nijurokku

hi, sensei.

i realize you probably receive 1000s of emails a day, but if you have time, can you please clarify a personal curiosity of mine? it's in 3 parts.

first, what year did you create nijurokku and add it to the system?

second, i understand you created nijurokku for a test. we practice it frequently in our dojo, however, i'm curious as to why you created it. was it part of your personal development for a test you were taking, or was it something you felt important for your students to learn for their tests?

third, there is some debate as to what you feel is the primary purpose of the exercise. is it primarily a punching exercise, movement exercise, etc. or is there no primary purpose for it and it is "just an exercise"?

i would really appreciate any feedback you can give me regarding nijurokku, as i feel it will help me understand the exercise and style of uechi-ryu better.

thank you for your time,
kind regards,
Paul Brennan

Hi Paul:

I believe Nijurokku was created around 1963.
I created it primarily for new students as a level of performance relating to basic and generic material, prior to the formal curriculum found in Uechi-ryu.

Thanks for your kind e-mail and interesting questions.

Best,
George Mattson

From the Archives. . .

2009-09-12T18:10:00.000-07:00

Early Forums and site pages were lost following server crashes and hosting companies going out of business. Fortunately, I made copies of the more interesting posts on CD and will be posting them here as discovered. Here is one from 2001:
===========================================

Copyright David Elkins
1160 Garden Grove Drive
Roseburg, OR 97470
davide@mcsi.net
23 July 2001

Okinawan Karate Flow Drills [That I will be teaching at Summer Camp]

Uechi-Ryu Applications of Tegumi Renzokugeiko adapted from Sensei Patrick McCarthy’s video “The McCarthy Seminars I” Thanks to Master McCarthy for sharing his knowledge and insights. Osu!

These flow drills represent one of the “lost” elements of traditional karate practice - that of two person continuous energy exchange drills. In addition to promoting the development of fear control for typical scenarios of unwanted aggression, they contain aspects of iron body conditioning, foster feeling sensitivity, and encourage consolidation of Sanchin root and center. The twelve drills can be performed consecutively in a giant chain incorporating increasingly sophisticated variations as the practitioner becomes comfortable with the basic patterns.

When appropriate, anatomical and/or meridian point targets for strikes are noted. Obviously, in a real fight we are happy just to connect with our opponent - who is attempting not only to thwart our blows, but also to hit us. As impossible as it may seem to target a small moving “point” which, of course should be struck in a specific direction at an ideal time of day, blah, blah – it is good training. As our shooter friends say “aim small/miss small”.

1. Kakie

engage forearms (with force) facing partner in Sanchin. Press up/in snaking hand at wrist at apogee of movement to then pull vigorously toward self using kakie (wrist) hook. One partner will be palm up the other palm down. This will change with every successive movement. Perform designated number and then clash opposite forearms to switch arms much the same as arm rubbing.

Bunkai

He R same side grab > R cover/trap (be prepared to raise R elbow to “nosecone” destruction of incoming L cross), hit radial nerve (C10) with L hand, R shuto (as you perform the shuto – the L hand slides down his forearm using shoken flesh grab to seize/pull his R arm to your L hip) convert shuto to reverse neck hook, R knee spike to face, push up on his R arm or shoulder and down on the L side of his head or his L shoulder to spin him around (this is the Silat puta-kapala or double arm crane motion from Sanseiryu kata – a VERY serious application involves stepping on his foot as you perform the spin/ his foot is pinned to the ground and his spine is torqued – the weak link in the chain will break!) spin to deck retaining your hold on his R arm, R iron palm slap to face, double thumb gouges to eyes, head smash on deck using ears as handles, jack chin back and finger spike supraclavicular notch (CV22) – the crane koken strikes from Seisan kata with the exception of the forward movement being palm down

2. Straight Punch

to transition from kakie to straight punch one partner simply steps forward and punches

He R lunge straight punch > L retreats and accepts the punch as body conditioning, R Uechi cross block/L iron palm heel strike down on radial nerve C10, L then slides down his forearm in “shrinking ring” (using ripping tiger claw to irradiate his brain with pain/trap/and excruciate tendons and nerves on wrist as it straightens out his arm bringing him into the void and opening his ribcage, R hand slams into lower rib cage. That hand continues in a counterclockwise arc hitting the richly innervated area of the neck/lower mandible. From there it hits the forearm again (thus far it has inscribed a reverse circle block), and terminates in a ulna bone forearm smash to the neck.

As a partner drill the “defender” should protect the neck with guarding hand. The forearm and rib cage border should be conditioned.

To move this drill up and down the deck from the last technique – defender protects neck with guarding hand, sweeps it down and out in a downblock movement (reverse of the initiation of the mawashi uke movement) slap blocks it to the other side of the centerline and punches with the hand used in protecting the neck.
Bunkai - dynamic exit from the drill

After striking the neck – reverse wrap neck in a guillotine movement, lift then sit/roll backwards using the leg nearest your partner to lift his body (in the street you would employ this as a striking lever), as you achieve the “mount” position you are still grasping his R hand. Using your R hand, iron palm slap his temple with a “tetsui” movement, slip your L foot under his head and fall back perpendicular to him placing him in an armbar and perform an adductive kick to his sternum, xyphoid, bladder, groin, etc. as you break arm.
Variation

After forearm strike to the neck bring his R wrist to your L hip locking his elbow. Roll your striking arm pivoting at the elbow so that your forearm is perpendicular to the deck (this is the lead arm scoop/throwing motion of the dragon in Sanseiryu) the elbow is ideally digging into his triceps tendon. Using spit and sink of “swallow, spit, float, and sink” exhale and drop your center. From there, rotate your forearm clockwise to access his groin (in partner drill we grab hamstring) using shoken flesh grab, rip/twist as you sit down and roll back. You are now both on your backs with heads facing in opposite directions. You are still holding his wrist. Slap down on his face, elbow to the serratus. Raising his R arm that you are holding, insert your striking hand behind his elbow and pull his forearm toward your groin to dislocate. You can alternatively wrench his wrist toward his own forearm.

Editorial - Wrist grabbing is often seen by the naïve as an entry which is seldom the case. A more likely scenario would involve an individual grabbing another’s wrist to attempt a disengagement from a painful situation such as a groin grab. Thus the universality of the Tegumi flows – like kata the movements are finite but the applications infinite. Similarly, everything has an entry, an execution, and a follow through. As in knife fighting, command of the nuances of transition is what distinguishes novice from journeyman from master.

3. Forearm clashing

to transition from straight punch to forearm clashing, one partner simply steps forward and delivers a low forearm strike rather than a punch

Face partner in Sanchin. Hand not in use should be in guard.

a. R low arm clash (from cross block motion)

b. L high arm clash (from shuto movement)

2 kakie movements as in exercise #1

c. R hand performs circle block to high clash

both partners form guarding hand structure and press out/up/down/and in forming an invisible elliptical plane between them similar to the triple hirakins of Seisan.

d. after two energy exchanges of part c., partner A performs a straight punch at B’s head. B defends with hajiki uke. Both return to origin and the roles reverse with B trying to hit A. A defends with hijiki uke. All of these motions are done with the same arm that initially clashed in “c”. It is single sticky hand (dan chi-sau).

e. Once again for the third time, press dynamically out/up/down/in

f. Conclude this flow with a low sweep block (gedan barai) movement using the same hand.

Bunkai

Now it’s your turn, enjoy being creative. Anything goes as long as it conforms to the fighting concepts and principles of Uechi-Ryu.

4. Shoving

to transition from forearm clashing to shoving, one partner simply steps forward and delivers a middle gate shove rather than a low forearm smash

He shoves > circle block allowing the circle block to dissipate/guide his energy into a “push hands” exchange – think of it as Uechi arm rubbing turned on its side. Exchange roles by aggressively trapping his arms, stepping forward and shoving with other hand. He responds by stepping back and repeating drill. This exercise emphasizes the origin of movement being from the dan tien not the shoulder/arms. In the initial stages of learning this drill, go softly. One of the primary objectives of this drill is to learn the skills of “cotton body” - the ability to displace your mass at will denying your opponent centerline advantage. You will retard your progress in this skill if you approach it as an iron rod rather than a wad of cotton.

5. Defending/attacking

to transition from shoving to defending/attacking, one partner simply delivers a shove as in the previous drill

he R shoves > R “catch-up” block (a slapping palm moving backward on the elbow line as opposed to the usual manifestation of it moving forward slightly preceding the circle block – think of it as a continuation of the retraction phase of the Sanchin thrust. L slams on his radius/R shuto to throat. He stops with his L guarding hand, pushes my strike down and away as he circles his R hand toward and then away from himself to launch shuto at me. I protect similarly. We then flow with reciprocal exchange of shutos/deflections.

To switch sides – when he shoves my hand down, he continues to drop his elbow down into my chest, continues forward energy into a shoulder bump to my chest, and finally attacks with his own shuto with the opposite hand (actually the same side that is folding) > defend and drill continues.

This drill teaches a late defense (the catch-up movement), the ability to “fold” joints when your attack is blocked, allowing you to hit with the next weapon in the line of your skeletal structure, and the ability to defend and immediately launch a counteroffensive when you are caught off guard and surprised by an attack. As in the previous drill, go easy at first to develop great speed in this drill. It should look like hitting a speed bag!

6. Hook Punch #1

to transition from defending/attacking to hook punch, one partner simply delivers a hook rather than a shove

He R hooks (sucker punch) > L shuto, snake R hand underneath to circle block (this is an interesting movement as it could easily be either an eye poke, fish hook, throat grab, or a ripping tiger claw movement inside or outside his arm as a function of the directional flow of combative energy at the moment), L hand checks his arm at elbow, launch my own R hook (in the street both of my “defensive” movements seek to destroy in the manner of a FMA “Gunting” targets being the radial nerve and the ulnar nerve – funny bone, or the vulnerable elbow joint) .
To switch – duck the hook and return fire from the opposite side – slick!

7. Straight Punch

to transition from hook punch to straight punch, one partner simply delivers a lunge punch rather than a hook. Alternately, my partner can check my hook with his shuto and immediately return fire with a lunge straight punch.

He throws R straight P > L slap block/R circle block, L check, and return fire with a R lunge P. To switch, when I check he steps in aggressively and punches me.

This drill is reminiscent of Uechi kokekitae only it uses a checking hand in the penultimate movement rather than trusting the circle block to keep his striking arm under control. This drill (as any of the others also) can be “spiced-up” by adding variety in the angle of attack. It teaches aggressive response particularly on the switch – if you check and hesitate, he will continue his attack. Your “defense” must be continuous and relentless.

8. Hacking Elbow

This technique is the mirror image of the second movement of “hijizuki”

to transition from hook punch to hacking elbow, one partner simply delivers an elbow rather than a hook

He R hacking elbow > L hand soft “catcher’s mitt” absorbs his energy, R circle block (or hajiki uke for a destruction approach), turn his arm internally, L check his arm, and return hacking elbow.

To switch, I catch and he aggressively steps forward to throw elbow from other side.

9. Lock-Flow

Sorry, you should have figured out transitions by now

He R overhead strike > L hajiki uke, R circle blk, immediately grab/pull to extend his arm, enter with L foot/pivot clockwise to deliver a rising forearm to his tri tendon (elbow strike structure of middle Seisan kata)

He will likely pull back resisting the hyperextension of his arm

Then snake your L arm over his arm in the crook, your R hand bends his hand in a “gooseneck” fingers toward his face (your L hand can brace on your own R upper arm for leverage in a figure 4 configuration – you may as well as you’ll be using it in a minute)

He will likely try to back away from you resisting the wrist lock

Then shoot your R foot out so that you are now facing him and apply forward downward pressure on the shoulder joint with the figure 4 on his R arm

He will likely try to resist in a forward direction to alleviate the pain in his shoulder

Then shoot your R foot back so that you are once again at his R side, R grab/pull his wrist, L drive your forearm into the bottom of his mandible/neck area of s9 and s5. this is a set-up for the next movement which is

Turn his wrist over so that palm faces ceiling, snake your R arm down/over/around his arm so that your radius bone presses on his tri tendon, grab your own gi or shirt and lift your elbow up in front to jack his elbow joint

Shove him away – like the phoenix that rises from its ashes, he foolishly comes back for more with an overhead on the other side.

10. Uppercut

He R uppercut > fade back that side (use “cotton body” to move your gut out of harm’s way - imagine that he has a knife). For that matter, don’t imagine, train it with one partner stabbing with a drone. As you step back, L downward/forward strike to his brachialis. Wing Chun players call this motion a “gum sau” (‘pressing hand’). It is the energy of the double strike from Sanchin with hand structure in fingers facing internally/palms down and parallel to the ground. You are not trying to merely stop him, but to hurt him at the same time. R nukite or Sanchin thrust to the suprasternal notch (cv22), R shuto to his R tricep tendon (c12), circle your L hand up so that you twist his arm into a half-nelson. As he spins around he throws a L rear elbow to your head which you protect with your R palm “catcher’s mitt”. Push with your R/pull with your L so that his body spins back toward you. He will uppercut with his L hand and you repeat drill.

11. Hook #2

He R hook > L shuto (which quickly converts to a grab/pull, R vertical palm or Bushiken to temple (Yang reservoir, gb3), R neck grab pulls his head in to a R shoulder butt, pop his head back by explosively straightening your R arm hitting his face with your bicep, just as explosively – pull his head back in to a L elbow strike.

This is a good place to experiment with broken timing strikes. Actually, it’s not a good place to experiment as it is far too dangerous to learn on the head/neck. The concepts can be used with the wa-uke strike from Sanchin with much less potential risk. After popping his head back with your arm extension, use the neck grab that pulls his head back to the elbow strike as an adductive strike – don’t just pull him, hit him. The broken timing comes in via delaying the elbow a ½ beat after the neck/jaw strike. This sets up rotation. Remember that neck breaks are done with rotation + extension of the cervical vertebrae. A neck break can occur if the two strikes are done with broken timing and some angulation to hyperextend the neck. This potentially lethal strike would best be done with a L palm rather than an elbow in view of the additional control offered by the hand.

As if the preceding was not sufficient to dissuade the bad guy from further unwarranted aggression, add the following: after the elbow sandwich (looks like the mirror image of elbow strike into the hand in the dragon sequence at the end of kata Seisan), jam your R radius bone against his L mastoid process (neck below/behind the ear) as you drive/grind your L ulna bone into the orbital nerve of his R cheek. This exposes his R temple which you immediately head butt. Push him away - he returns with a hook from the other side, and the drill begins anew.

12. Hook #3

He R hook > check with shuto that quickly converts to a grab/pull, R radius forearm smash to his sternal mastoid area of the neck, R ulna strike to his upper forearm (c10), retaining your L grab of his R arm, R step cross body so that you are in front of him as you rotate his arm (hand thumb up) internally to your L shoulder. Lever his elbow joint (called “old man carries a pole”), bring him to his toes then L downward palm strike to his groin, step back outside him with your L leg as both hands perform an Irish whip (clockwise rotation) to his R arm, R downward palm strike to his occipital area, shove him away – he returns with opposite side hook.

Where to go from here? Well, if we were training together we would be adding footwork supporting various attitudes, we would interrupt timing, consider various entry and exit scenarios, add kicks, and later stop-kicks. We might even take some or part of the entire sequence to the ground and see how we could use our skills in that venue. We would definitely train outdoors on hard and soft regular and uneven or slippery surfaces. Later, we might even put something in our hands to do the drills – maybe to begin with, something hard like a stick or a claw hammer, then maybe something sharp like a knife or a BBQ skewer (just kidding?), and when we really thought we were hot stuff, we might try the whole routine blindfolded! Just some food for thought. Enjoy.

Thanks Bob Bethoney

2009-08-04T03:48:00.001-07:00

sensei mattson:

I WANTED TO SAY CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR PROMOTION TO 10 DEGREE . EVERY ONCE IN A GREAT WHILE COMES A MAN WHO DEFIES THE ODDS AND PROVES TO THE WHOLE WORLD THAT IT CAN BE DONE AND DONE WELL.

BOB BETHONEY

Thanks Mike Murphy. . .

2009-07-31T13:44:00.001-07:00

Dear George Sensei,

I just wanted to send a personal congratulations for your promotion to Judan last Saturday. This is long deserved as much as it was well-deserved. I think of a person with your history and work ethic over the years is a person who influences people both intentionally and unintentionally. Many of your lessons and philosophies are studied and made dojo practice whether you have personally worked with that student or not. This is what you have done with me. Whether it was working with you on Sanchin at the beach or in some other seminar, I always left with something to work on for me and my students. And even though distance has transpired against us, I still talk and work with people who have more direct contact with you and what you are teaching. I just wanted to thank you for both and wish you continued luck and good fortune.

Contratulations again for the promotion. You certainly deserve it.

mike

From Darin Yee

2009-07-31T13:43:00.000-07:00

I want to thank you Sensei George Mattson for allowing me to run my junior black belt test at this years’ summer camp. I must say this has been the high light of all my students’ martial art achievements. This is something my students will remember and cherish for the rest of their lives.

These students have achieved much in their training and studies. They have worked diligently and relentlessly to be where they are today. The added bonus was to receive their reward in the presence of many local seniors and seniors from other parts of the world. The presence and approval of grandmaster George Mattson sitting on their board is already becoming legion among the student in my dojo.

Many of my students’ parents are calling me to ask if this could be their case when their child is ready for black belt testing. There were 15 messages on my dojo phone and 5 more on my cell. They pledged the dedication of their child in anticipation of such a glorious event involving their little warrior.

If junior testing is something you are willing to do at your camp every year, I will plan for this. I’m sure all my students will work hard for the opportunity to duplicate and experience the joy my new junior black belts felt.

I also believe this will be a goal for all my young students. This may encourage many other students to stay focus and continue studying. A few of my calls at the dojo was from parent who had took their children out because of other interest.

From Dave Mott

2009-07-31T13:30:00.001-07:00

Hi George,

I want to take this opportunity to congratulate you again on your very appropriate promotion to Judan. After all, you are the roots of the tree from which most North American (and beyond!) Uechi-ryu grew and blossomed. I was very happy that I could be there for this (either I'm out of the loop or it was a very well kept secret). And I really hope that when I'm 71 (barely 6 years from now!) that I can perform a kata
1/2 as good as yours! You're an inspiration.

Thanks for letting me "do my thing" at summer camp. There were a number of people who wanted to work with the coiling silk exercises and I wanted to give them time beyond the normal slots. By the way, although you listed me under Chinese martial arts, I consider the Cold Mountain Coiling Silk Exercises to be Uechi-ryu. Or at least no more Chinese than the roots of our style in Fukien. I'm not naive enough to think that the CMCSE will ever be part of the Uechi-ryu canon, but there are people who come to camp looking to learn, practice, and deepen their understanding and ability in ways such as this. Of course, the scenario training, grappling etc. will well serve an important segment of our community but most of the more mature students look for something that is, well, more mature. I'm happy to be one who offers that.

I hope that you and Susan got home safe and sound and can kick back and enjoy the rest of the summer. Bobbi and I leave on Sat. to spend August at out place out in the woods. I have a new commission for choir and instruments to compose and hope that the rain lets up so that we can also canoe and swim –as we like to do.

love to you and Susan!

David

PS Any news on the release of your new book? We're all eager.

Thank you Brian. . .

2009-07-31T13:29:00.000-07:00

Dear George Sensei:

I wanted to offer my congratulations on your new/long overdue promotion to judan. After fifty plus years in Uechi, this rank is well deserved.

When I walked into the Hancock Street dojo in 1973, I never imagined still training and teaching so many years later. Knowing that you still train with such vigor and enthusiasm is a great inspiration to continue to work hard, even as the aging process makes it a bit tougher to roll out of bed in the morning! And, the fact that, at your rank, you continue to work with beginners is a great lesson in humility and the genuine love of the art, that all of us should emulate.

I know I'm not the first to acknowledge that you have introduced so very many of us to a great style of karate. I think most would agree that you have also introduced us to a great life style. The need to work-out, the addiction to exercise is an amazing gift that "keeps on giving." Not only have you given us Uechi, you have also made us healthier, happier people. That's quite a legacy.

Great thanks George!

Your in the arts,

Brian Stoia

The "old" days. . .

2009-07-29T13:35:00.000-07:00

Peter Porter has sent you a message

George,
I was on board testing black belts for the Okinawan Karate Academy in Lebanon NH about a week ago. Sali Emen Azem was on the board also. I used to train with him in the early 80's. Pretty sure he trained with you in the 60's or 70's. I also heard of a Walter Mattson that did Uechi. Related to you?
Pete

No, Walter just happened to have the same last name.

JuniorFest letters

2009-07-29T13:33:00.000-07:00

Dear Mr. Mattson

Thank you so very much for letting my daughters Brianna and Melissa be part of the summerfest 2009 and to let them have the opportunity to get their Junior black belt promotion that night. They were so happy to be part of it and to have you on the board also. Thanks again for all your comments , it means a lot to them.

Have a wonderful summer and hope to see you again next year !!

Sincerely,

Mary Mc Carthy

more on SummerFest

2009-07-29T13:32:00.001-07:00

Hi George,

I wanted to thank you and Susan for a wonderful weekend and the master's ceremony was so inspirational and emotional. Congratulations on your 10th degree black belt. Well deserved, no question about that. The woman named Toni, that was tested told me that if it hadn't been for Uechi-Ryu she would not be alive. I am speechless at the thought and from having seen just how many lives you have touched and I thank you again for what I have received as a result of Uechi-Ryu.

You are a rare individual and the world needs more people like you.

Bless you and Susan for all that you have given and still give to so many people.

--
Thank you,

Michele Ann Turner

From Seth Rosenblatt

2009-07-29T13:30:00.001-07:00

George-sensei,

Just wanted to offer my congratulations, but more importantly, my thanks for your years of dedication to teaching us all Uechi-ryu. From your open-minded and challenging summer camps to tolerating fumbling new students (like myself in '95) in your senior student classes at the Hut, from encouraging students to explore other styles and see how they relate back to Uechi to giving me my first opportunity to teach karate to children, your influence and wisdom has not only made us all better Uechi-ka, but more importantly better people as well.

My most sincere thanks for the impact you've had on my life, and those who've taught me.

P.S. I owe you a Scotch, next time I see you!

On my surprise promotion!!!

2009-07-29T13:28:00.000-07:00

George Sensei,

First of all, congratulations to the well deserved and long long overdue 10th Dan.

I just watch the video of the Seisan kata your performed in the Masters Celebration. What a beautiful performance. I am proud that you are our head of the organization, and proud to be able to claim you as my instructor.

I will not make any excuses for not being able to attend the Summer Camp, other than I just could not make it this time. I am sure you understand.

I will see you in the Winterfest or the next Summer Camp for sure.

Take care.
Henry Thom
http://sites.google.com/site/henrythomselfdefenseandkarate/

From Rose Dyer

2009-07-28T09:03:00.000-07:00

Sensei George, Just a note to say thank-you for all that you have done for me. It is a realization of a dream that both you and Susan helped to come true. This Summer-Fest has been a truly inspiring one and I feel very fortunate to have been a part of it. I also feel truly humbled to have the opportunity to test with such a courageous person as Toni.

I also wanted to congratulate you on your promotion and recognition to tenth degree. As a sensei, you have always been a role model of modesty and humility to me. You have never asked anything for yourself but have been ready to assist anyone in their aspirations to personal goals in Uechi-ryu. I am soo proud to call you Sensei.

Scott and talked it over on the ride home and we are planning to come to the Winter-Fest this year. Hopefully, I will be able to bring some students with me.

Until then, you are always on our hearts and in our prayers,
Your student,
Rose

My promotion. . .

2009-07-28T08:29:00.000-07:00

Dear George,

Congratulations on your well-deserved promotion to Judan! Your friends, students and fellow Uechi-ka on the IUKF Board and far beyond all feel that this honor was far overdue. Think about your writings, your years in Uechi-ryu, your years of teaching and number of students, and your continuing presence on the Uechi-ryu website. This all adds up to an adult lifetime of commitment to our Art.

We are proud to call you our Grand Master of the IUKF, and of North American Uechi-ryu.

With affection and appreciation,
Paul Haydu
Chairman
IUKF

2009 SummerFest Mail

2009-07-28T04:44:00.000-07:00

Hi George,
Hope you had a pleasant flight back home and getting settled in. I'm sure Harley was glad to see you.

Enjoyed our time with the two of you, even though you kicked my butt in golf, I forgive you.. I think everyone at camp really had a great time, it seems as though they were most all very involved in something and keeping busy. I'm sorry Toni and I didn't contribute much but it was great for us to meet up with so many good friends, especially the ones who we don't get to see much. Hope it worked out for you financially.

Congratulations again, of course you deserve this step and have for a long time. Wear that belt with pride, you earned every stitch.

A special LARGE thank you for your giving Toni the opportunity to do her "thing" as she has been working so hard over the last couple years. I know it didn't look like much, but it was all she had and I guarantee, she will get better. I have had my share of rough times but honestly, I don't think I could go through what she did, and is, going through. Her determination, her heart, without ever a complaint, it's just been an unbelievable trip for me. Again, never will I forget your allowing her to do this. Enough said.

Hopeing you enjoyed your stay and you never know, we may be down for a visit, sometime.

Take care, both of you, rather, the three of you.

Love from all the Bauknecht's
Bill
PS I know you must have a million pictures but I will be sending you a few. Debbie got some real nice shots of you doing your kata.
I already have the pics but she is going to send them to me on the puter so I can forward them on to you.
PSS I almost forgot. Toni told me when I talk to you to tell you she apolgizes for patting you on the butt. She has no control over that left arm and when someone took a pic of the two of you, her arm nailed you. I told her sure,,,it was an accident? Good cover up LOL. I told her you probably liked it anyway. (-:

White Crane visitor

2009-06-25T14:07:00.000-07:00

Mattson Sensei:

I hope you are doing well and don't mind my emailing you. I am a long-time Goju-Ryu student of Kimo Wall and Kobudo Student of Gakiya Yoshiaki.

I have for the last few years been researching and training in a few of the martial arts that have been considered likely influences on early Okinawan martial arts, including several forms of White Crane and Five Ancestors boxing, both here and in Malaysia / Singapore. My friend and White Crane (Shouting Crane and Ancestral Crane) instructor, Eric Ling will be coming to the US this fall (from Malaysia), and I wanted to see if you might be interested in hosting him for a seminar while he is in the USA. His teaching style is highly energetic, and fully of two-man drills and discussions of the principles and poems that lend so much information to the techniques and forms.

Please let me know if this would be of interest to you, or if you know of any other schools that may be interested in learning some Shouting or Ancestral Crane from an excellent source.

You can find more information about Eric Ling at his blog: http://eric88ling.wordpress.com/ . I would also highly recommend spending some time on his Youtube channel to get and appreciation of some of the materials available to him. http://www.youtube.com/user/eric88ling

There are also a few videos of me demonstrating some of Eric's material at a recent Gasshuku here: http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=BOVW&view=videos . Look for the videos marked "White Crane..." and "Redirection"

Best Regards,

Best Regards,

Russ Smith
http://www.Goju-Ryu.info/

Feeding Crane Seminar

2009-05-17T16:28:00.000-07:00

Hello Mattson sensei,
Its been a long time since we have communicated, and you may not remember me. My name is Fred Lohse, and I am a student of Kimo Wall's. A number of years ago Kimo sensei brought Liu Chang'i, the head of the Liu family Feeding Crane system, to one of your summer camps. This year he is bringing him back to the US, and I will be hosting a seminar with him in Boston. It is actually the weekend before your summer camp on the Cape this year- July 18&19. Liu sifu will be doing a 2 day seminar covering some of the basic forms of his system, applications, and the power development drills that put so much "oomph" behind his technique. I don't know if any of your students in the area would be interested, but if so I would be happy to pass on the info for the seminar, or if you have any suggestions for folks to contact in the area, I would be more than happy to get the information to them directly. Since its the week before your annual event, the timing might not be good, but Liu sifu's system and personal skills are excellent, and very interesting to those of us who practice the Okinawan arts, and folks may be interested in a martial-arts dedicated July!
In any case, I hope you are well and enjoying Florida. Take care, and do let me know if you or any of your students would be interested in attending, or in more information.
Thank you for your time.
yours,
Fred Lohse
Kodokan Boston
================
Hi Fred:
I don't often go to my gmail account and I didn't see this email until today.

If you send me the information, I'll post it on my website. Most Uechi practitioners visit the website at least once a week.

Best,
George
==============

Hello Mattson sensei,

Good to hear from you. I hope you are doing well. Thanks for the quick reply. Sorry about the delay on my end- I had to finish getting the registration form done, schedule finalized, and so on.

Thanks very much for offering to put this info on your website. I've attached a Word document with the seminar information, and a registration form. I hope that folks will be interested. I know you have seen Liu sifu in action- his power is incredible, and the way he moves definitely speaks to a connection to the Okinawan arts.

Right now, I've limited the seminar to 25 people, and we have about 15 spots filled. However, if we get a good response, I'm going to rent a larger space, so if folks are interested, do get in touch with me as soon as possible.

Let me know if there is any more information I can get to you, or any questions I can answer.

Meanwhile, take care, and enjoy the start of summer.

cheers,

Fred

Note: e-mail Fred (fwliii@comcast.net) for an application.

Interest in IUKF "Titles"

2009-05-17T16:20:00.000-07:00

Dear Sensei Mattson,

I enjoy your newsletters very much and I have a couple of questions for you if you don't mind. We are setting up standards for titled instructors (Renshi, Kyoshi, Shihan) for our organization and I would be very interested in the standards you use in your organization. Would it be possible for you to send me these standards? Also, how do I go about ordering your pending new book? I have greatly enjoyed your other books and I'm sure this one will be terrific as well.

Take care and kindest regards. By the way, I don't know if you remember it or not but I had written you when your pet died a while back that I had an elderly pit bull myself. Sadly, she died a couple of months ago. It was very hard and she is greatly missed.

Take care.

John Shipes

OSMKKF US Director

Hi John:

Thanks for the note and kind words.

IUKF has a “titles” committee that works with students who have been recommended for their different “masters” degrees. In a sense, we have patterned our “titles” on the advance degree programs in universities. . . with the exception that all our “titles” relate to the betterment of our Uechi-ryu.

The Shihan title relates to the teaching of our art and is predicated on a person’s ability to teach. Usually, this means an extensive “apprentice” program followed by an “internship” supervised by the individual’s teacher.

The titles of Renshi, Kyoshi and Hanshi are basically honorary award, given to senior practitioners based on work or services that have measurably helped the Uechi-ryu community. This can take the form of a teaching method, thesis on an important subject or other “life experiences” accomplishments the individual has performed. The Titles Committee’s job is to help the candidate determine which avenue to take in presenting existing work or future work in a form that will be acceptable to the committee. Once this requirement has been completed, the committee submits the name to the board of directors and the title is awarded at SummerFest.

There are minimum rank and years studying as well as minimum age requirements involved.

Hope this helps.

Best,

George Mattson

==============

News From Rob Kolenc & his Journey

2009-03-25T05:07:00.000-07:00

Dear friends. How are you all doing? I haven't seen many of you for a while and I feel badly about that. In my defense, things have been going at breakneck speed around here and it took all I had to keep the wheels on and just see the kids now and then!

2008 was really crappy. No other way to say it. I got some kind of arthritis bug that my body is stil trying to clear. My buddy John was diagnosed with cancer right after he came back from his honeymoon, and then the economy went south! At this point, I think we've cleared all the bad karma out of the system.

It is definitely time to look forward, reframe to a positive attitude, appreciate all the good things we already have in our lives and HAVE SOME SERIOUS FUN! So I'm leaving on Thursday for my dream motorcycle adventure ride - riding the Ice Roads of the Yukon and Northwest Territories up past the Arctic Circle and onto the Arctic Ocean. I'll be taking a lot of pictures and movie clips and posting the story on my trip blog over the next month. I think I have some real challenges ahead of me riding in that cold, but I think I have the right gear and team in place to pull it off.

If you think you'd have fun tagging along with me as my "virtual passenger", I will have a helmet cam in the passenger's seat for you and I will be posting pictures to my blog. I invite you to check out the trip websites below. Also, feel free to pass this on to people that you think might enjoy it.

I hope you're all well and thriving at least mentally if not financially (grin). DO keep in touch. You're the folks that I care about but don't see often enough!

Cheers!

Rob

P.S. The ride's official website >> punchcancerintheface.com

To see the trip blog, stories and pictures, updated every few days starting Thursday go to this website >> Canadian Arctic Winter Ride; Ice Roads and the Dempster Highway - ADVrider

More WinterFest feedback. . .

2009-03-17T04:18:00.000-07:00

hi,

it taking me a while to get this out had family in town right after winterfest. winterfest was alot of fun. my experience there may be a lil unique to others cause it was a refresher for me, i hadn't study uechi-ryu since the age of 12. but everyone made it very comfortable for me and help me follow along in the seminars. i liked to specially thank Sensei Darin Yee, who spent some one on one time with me. while the class was doing a practice drill to a kata i didn't fully remember, he work with me individually on the kata, and throughout the weekend whenever he had time. i exspecially enjoyed the grappling seminar. i currently am studing judo and it was nice to uechi using other techniques that fit there art to make them better martial artist. so thanks, i was alot of fun & hope to try get up there to train with you again.

steven gower

More WinterFest Critique

2009-03-14T17:25:00.000-07:00

Dear George,

this what my first Winterfest and, after having such a good time and learning so much, I know I will be back for more WinterFests. What a great place to train, right in the heart of Mt. Dora in the most beautiful and quaint town.

One of the things I really liked about this camp compared to SummerFest was the intimacy of training with fewer people. This allowed more one on one with the instructors, who were each so willing to stop and answer questions or break down a move. Each instructor was very knowledgeable and great fun to work with…egos left at the doors, as always.

The variety of seminars was wonderful, including learning a great Bo kata with George and Joe; amazing and effective ground work (plus) taught by Roy Bedard; some intense stretching with Jerry; an interesting variation of the wauke block by Darin Ye; an awesome new kata shown and learned by Fedele; and (of course) working with George.

I liked George’s variation of the soft arm pounding, almost like sticking hands. Very cool! Plus, I learned a better way of blocking I had not used. If I was closer to you, I would be sneaking over to train every chance I had.

I will have to admit missing a bit of the seminar. My head was elsewhere, getting ready for a Dan test, so please accept my apology for leaving out anything. This brings me to another great learning experience I had at this Winterfest: learning how to make my worst my best. I will have to admit that I was totally out of my comfort zone, having to test with George’s student, Tim…someone I had never worked with. It taught me about myself and enabled me to practice adapting with a different timing and slightly different application difference. It was a great experience and one that I am thankful for. Tim was a great partner, easy to work with, and he made me look good.

As far as what I would like to see, I think it would be good to have a larger soft area to test on. As I was doing my designated kata, I ended up having to transition from a raised hard foam mat to a wood deck in the middle of the kata, which breaks the flow of the kata.

I would love to see more ground work, especially for me as a woman. I feel like that is my Achilles heel and could greatly benefit from this.

I missed fellowshipping with some of the others after the seminar. We were limited to how many people could fit in the restaurants and some ended up going in different directions for dinner. How about a small party or place we can all get together after dinner on Saturday night?

All in all, I had a blast. Thank you George, Susan, and all who made this possible.

…I’ll be back.

Best regards,

Vicki

WinterFest 2009

2009-03-11T03:29:00.000-07:00

George I

Thank you for the invitation to Winterfest. Once again, it was a great time. Saw old friends, made new friends and enjoyed some really good training. All the seminars were very interesting and informative. I thoroughly enjoyed the weekend. Keep up the outstanding service to the Uechi community. I look forward to next years Winterfest and hopefully I can make to your Summerfest.

Thank you again,

George II

AKA George Schriefer

2009-02-02T13:17:00.000-08:00

MRAP Brings Father and Son Together in Iraq

30 Jan 2009

John Carria Jr. of SAIC and son John Carria III.

Mention Iraq in American households and one of the last things on anyone's mind would be a family reunion.

You haven't met the Carrias.

John Carria Jr. of SAIC and son John Carria III enjoyed a one-day reunion of sorts when son visited father at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Speicher just north of Baghdad in October. What brought them together was a common chassis, if you will: the Mine-Resistant Ambush-Protected vehicle, or MRAP.

Father Works in Iraq, While Son Serves in the Army

Shortly after joining SAIC one year ago, the elder Carria deployed to Baghdad in February as the Joint Logistics Integrator (JLI) MRAP liaison officer. His duties run the gamut of logistical support required by the MRAP Joint Program Office.

Carria's son, an Army second lieutenant, also arrived in Iraq in February, deploying four hours north of Baghdad to FOB Summeral with the 101st Airborne Division. He and his platoon of 50 soldiers became intimately familiar with the MRAP from the five to six missions a week they ran in them, several of those under fire.

No one was hurt, a blessing Lt. Carria and his men attribute in large measure to the MRAPs that carried them into harm's way. Despite some of the complaints heard about the vehicles regarding their maneuverability and visibility, soldiers like Lt. Carria and his troops like them because they fulfill their primary obligation: protecting troops in the line of fire. "They wish they had more MRAPs," his father said.

That's all the motivation — and job satisfaction — for which his father could've asked. The former Marine logistics officer takes the long hours in stride because the people benefitting from his labors aren't just like family, in some cases they are family.

"I took the job because it was a good opportunity to work for SAIC and support the war on terrorism at the same time," Carria said. "The added bonus was having the opportunity to serve there the same time as my son."

Taking the Job Personally

The Carrias bring new meaning to SAIC's penchant for taking the job personally. "Secretary [of Defense Robert] Gates meant it when he said the MRAP was his number one acquisitions priority and we're honored to be a part of that effort," said Mike Gray, MRAP JLI deputy program manager. "But it's not often your job takes on such a personal tone as it has for John."

Lt. Carria's division returned to Ft. Campbell, Ky., in November. Their desert reunion notwithstanding, his father is "very relieved that [Lt. Carria] is gone."

Carria returns home in June to his family in Virginia.

The MRAP logistics contract is valued at more than $100 million per year. The Logistics & Engineering Solutions Business Unit and Systems & Technology Solutions Business Unit were recently reselected for a 30-month contract renewal.

— Written by Regen Wilson

Anyone know David Nishimoto?

2009-02-02T03:41:00.000-08:00

Mr.Mattson,

I've been reading the articles on your site, thank you for mainting such a nice collection.

I am wondering if you have information for me on David Nishimoto? I am curious about his teaching, and where/when he instructs.

Thanks,

jenn

Hi Jenn:

I don't know David. He has been a regular contributor of articles and has written to me from time to time. I don't have his email address any longer. . . lost in a recent computer meltdown, but you might check out the articles section and his articles. He may have included some way to contact him.

Best,

George

2009 World Tournament & Seminars on Okinawa

2009-01-31T05:00:00.000-08:00

To All,

I am sure many of you received information packets via the mail from the Okinawa Dento Karate/Kobudo Shinkokai concerning the 2009 World Tournament and Seminars to be held on Okinawa August 14-16, 2009.

Attached is the information in electronic form so you can reproduce and distribute the information. Please be advised that the last two pages of the PDF are 11x 17 documents.

The web site is not up as of 1.30.2009. I will advise as soon as it is functional.

I would suggest registering before the end of March for the event and began making reservations as soon as possible.

If you need any assistance with registering, flight reservations or hotel accommodations please feel free to contact me. Also, many dojo are having additional training the week after the event and if you are interested in participating please contact me

Hope to see you in Okinawa.

Dan Smith

Solving my PC problems???

2009-01-31T04:51:00.001-08:00

From Harry Brawley. . . one of my very early students from the Columbus Ave era:

George...

Check out the Apple iMac when you get a chance. Clean, fast and no viruses.

I've moved nearly everything here over to several Mac platforms, and it's been a very good move for both Ellen and me.

I've also moved a number of clients from PCs to Macs, and every new Mac user is happy -- even enthusiastic with the change.

We here are done with PC development. We are developing software for the Mac and iPhone/iPod touch platforms exclusively now.

Sounds like you are busy and doing well -- with the exception of your personal computer. Get a Mac!

Harry Brawley

Simple Works

Mount Desert, Maine

Looking for a Uechi dojo!

2009-01-30T12:32:00.001-08:00

Hi George,

I met you about 12 years ago in New Hampshire. I was training with Nancy Gavenda at the time. I also read your book around 1960!

I'm living in New Jersey nowadays, and I can't find any Uechi-Ryu folks to train with. Any ideas? Would appreciate any suggestions you might have!

Tim Dalton
Dalton Print Consulting

More on Harley and editorials

2009-01-29T16:21:00.000-08:00

Hi George,

I enjoyed reading about your new family member Harley and the escapades that led to his new residence! And I enjoyed reading your article "reality check" very much. In my view, the values which you inculcated as the Way of Karate are still valid and relevant which perhaps fits into either #1 or is a new category. We all really enjoy working out, and practicing and the benefits of that training are of inestimable value. And it's a life long pursuit.

love,

David (Mott)

Harley e-mail

2009-01-25T11:02:00.000-08:00

Subject: Your new dog

Dear Sensei,

am very glad to see that there is a new dog in your life. Herley has the best home of the world on your site. My wife saw the pictures of Harley and was in love. I send you two pictures of our dog. His name is Joschi. He is a mix between a dalmatiner and a Rhodesian Ridgeback.

Best regards and a lot of fun with Harley,

Erik

Thanks for your note and pictures Erik. Harley is adapting to our house although at times he still thinks he is outdoors. (This morning Sue found him on top of the dining room table, looking out the window!
But overall he is a great dog.
Best,
George

Sue & George's New Dog e-mail

2009-01-25T08:09:00.000-08:00

Harley is a great name and he is one lucky dog! He looks so intelligent and adorable, just very happy for all of you, bravo!

Tell George you two have inspired us to call our next dog Guzzi (our fave bike)
Flo

Dojo/instructor in Newberg, Oregon???

2009-01-25T08:08:00.001-08:00

Greetings:

My son, who is 17, has found an interest in Okiniwan Uechi Ryū. I studied briefly in the late 1960’s in Kalamazoo, but I left for Alaska, and did not continue. I did not realize how lucky I was to have a place to learn so close to where I lived in Michigan.

We now live in Newberg, Oregon, and I have been unable to locate anywhere for him to learn, Do you know of anyone who teaches in Oregon or even Vancouver, WA?

I have tried to find somewhere in Newberg, McMinnville, Portland, Salem, Corvallis, Eugene, Wilsonville, but so far – no luck.

Thanks for any help you might offer

Robert Grove

Remember Jay Freedman?

2008-12-18T04:38:00.001-08:00

George,
Just a quick note from a former Boston student. I started at the Boston dojo when I was 10 in 1967, on Saturday mornings. You were the first instructor, and Bob Campbell, a green belt, took over those classes shortly thereafter, before he left for the Navy. I eventually took over the Saturday classes with several other students and had a great time, until i left for college in New York in 1974, having earned a second degree Brown belt. I remember the Boston dojo, some of the students and family with fondness. The lessons I learned in Boston have stayed with me my entire life, and although I have married, moved to Maryland, have kids, those lessons remain invaluable. Great seeing your website, Uechi-Ryu to me is the only Karate. Glad to see you are still teaching in (semi) retirement:)

Sincerely,
Jay Freedman

Detroit Area dojo?

2008-12-18T04:32:00.000-08:00

Dear Mr Mattson,
I am a Sandan in Shohei ryu karate living in the Metro Detroit area. I'm originally from the Pittsfield Ma dojo but am looking to continue my training here in Michigan. If you know of anyone interested in training in the Detroit area with a fellow student of Uechi/Shohei ryu I would be interested in hearing from them. All the schools seem to be out in the Kalamazoo or up north part of the state.
Thank you. Jack McGrath

Ipswich Martial Arts

2008-12-18T03:36:00.001-08:00

Hi, Mattoson-sensei

My name is Masayo Tsukawaki and my husband is member of Butokukai and Dojo owner Ed Labrecque.

Is that possible to have his Dojo in directory under Masachusetts?

Ipswich Martial Arts
195 High St.
Ipswich, MA 01938

978-356-2266
Web address: www.edsdojo.com

Mattoson-sensei

Actually, my father was Goji-ryu practitioner, and used to be student of Seigo Tada-sansei, I think you visited Seigo Dojo when you were in Japan.
I think my hasband Ed Labrecque mentioned that when sensei came over for Butokukai guraduation about a year ago.

We did visit Okanawa to Uechi sensei and Toyama sensei, this year, Toyama-sensei said he remember you, but myself , unfortunately I haven't meet you in person yet.

So please accept my appology to sen this mail all of sudden like this. I was at Mattoson-sensei's website and found other butokukai dojo list were there but not ours.

If you could add our Dojo, We are thankful .

Sensei, please have great holiday season.
We truly hope to have an opportunity to see you in person, soon.

Masayo Tsukawaki
Ed Labrecque

Ipswich Martial Arts.

So you think you are a master!!!

2008-11-21T02:56:00.001-08:00

Dear Sensei George,
How are you and the Family? I hope that you're healthy and strong and practicing regularly. This article, for your site, is for those individuals who may seek another perspective on all the "Masters" floating around given the extreme commercialism today in the MA. Manny

You’re a master? Sorry, I don’t think so.
By Manny Neves, 8th Dan

A few weeks ago, I attended a Master Gushi Seminar at the Hartford Dojo. My student and I were a little late for the Saturday class, so as not to interrupt anyone, we sat in the back of the room and watched the instructions for a while. As I was sitting there, Mr Harriman, 7th dan and promoter of the seminar turned around and asked me, “Why don’t you like to call people Masters when they’re 6th dan or above?” I started to respond to him when my student said that Master Gushi wanted us to gi up and be part of the program. So I was never able to finish my conversation with Ernie. I’ll share my thoughts with you here, with the chance you may dislike me more than you already do for whatever reason.

To me there’s one underlying principle that should be followed for you to call yourself a “Master”. It’s what I refer to as “creating something from nothing”. Most practitioners are basically followers of someone or something. Albeit, some may be very youthful, powerful and earnest and have more energy than others, possibly displaying excellent technique, but they’re still followers. For instance, those of us, who seek depth to our training, by seeking the “meaning” of our kata are still “following” the path of the creator of the original kata. Also, there are those individuals who bastardize the original kata and create what they call “their” way of doing the kata and call themselves masters and may even promote themselves to high degrees. I look at individuals who achieve the rank of 6th dan and above as dedicated, generally older individuals who found a way to make their kata continually be effective even if they are 45, 50, 60 years old and possibly older. Those high ranks, as most of us know, are tied to character, age, time in grade and the ability to still do kata correctly. But are they Masters? I believe they are not. What about the individuals who are or were great fighters, the one’s who, in the past, dedicated their youth to beating up all comers? The notion that you’re a master because you won a few matches, or even many matches, in a contest is absurd. Everyone and anyone can be beaten on a given day given the right circumstances. Also, the contrasting view applies. You can beat anyone in a contest on a given day with the right circumstances. Those of us who’ve competed know what those circumstances generally are.

That being said, my point is to be humble. Don’t call yourself a master to feed your dominant ego. Be earnest in your training so that you can open up to inspiration that may help you create “something from nothing”. One caveat, make sure that “something” has significant value and is time tested (at least 50 years or longer).

The Way of Karate!

2008-11-20T14:45:00.000-08:00

Sent: Thursday, November 20, 2008 4:40 PM
To: gmattson@uechi-ryu.com
Subject: The Way of Karate

Mattson Sensei,

a few months ago I came across a copy of your book The Way of Karate a 1966 edition and have treasured it ever since. I am an instructor of Isshinryu Karate and find it very informative on the history of the Okinawan tradition.
I thought you might like to hear that after all this time this book is still circulating

Thank you,
Jeffrey W. Brown
===================================
Hi Jeffrey.

Thanks for the note and kind words.

I’m still training, learning and enjoying the karate experience. Hope you are as well.

Stay in touch. . .

George Mattson

"blast from the past". . .

2008-11-16T04:52:00.000-08:00

-----Original Message-----
From: Jay Freedman
Sent: Friday, November 14, 2008 3:15 AM
To: gmattson@uechi-ryu.com
Subject: Hello from Maryland

George,
Just a quick note from a former Boston student. I started at the Boston dojo when I was 10 in 1967, on Saturday mornings. You were the first instructor, and Bob Campbell, a green belt, took over those classes shortly thereafter, before he left for the Navy. I eventually took over the Saturday classes with several other students and had a great time, until i left for college in New York in 1974, having earned a second degree Brown belt. I remember the Boston dojo, some of the students and family with fondness. The lessons I learned in Boston have stayed with me my entire life, and although I have married, moved to Maryland, have kids, those lessons remain invaluable. Great seeing your website, Uechi-Ryu to me is the only Karate. Glad to see you are still teaching in (semi) retirement:)

Sincerely,
Jay Freedman
=====================================
Hi Jay. . .

Good to hear from you. I'm playing golf this morning and must head for the course in a few minutes. I did want to say hello though and thank you for sending me this very kind note. I get a couple messages a month from Cambridge St dojo students and many of them (like you) still fondly remember time spent working out. Surprisingly, many still do Sanchin and other kata as part of their fitness routine. (Hope you do as well) :)

If you don't mind, I'll put your email address on my Newsletter list. Expect a monthly Uechi update, which you can cancel at any time.

Stay in touch and if you have time, drop into the forums and say hello to the Uechi community.

Best,
george

News from an old friend. . .

2008-08-16T09:01:00.000-07:00

Hi Lenny:

Good to hear from you. We miss you as well!
We just finished SummerFest on Cape Cod. Where was you????

I've been doing scouting work for the Pittsburgh Pirates, however, I do my sanchin and all kumite....also Kanshiwa, Katicki-tai, Seisan, etc....with long time friend,Ron Boulanger.... I do go to the Cape in May/June. It's there where the best college players play in front of 28+ pro scouts. How much $$$$$$$ for an XL Summerfest shirt?

Sorry to hear about your uncle.
Best,
George

Sensei, I think I wrote you wrong infounder such busy conditions here. Father Jerry, who you briefly met here in Plainfield retired from going to Japan after 50+ years. He would finish his priesthood in Ossiningt, New York. He retired his duries in japan in April 2008, He died last Friday on the 8th of August.
http://www.legacy.com/norwichbulletin/Obituaries.asp?Page=Lifestory&PersonId=115593985

I liked your latest film in your garage where I said to myself, " He loves it there, the birds do too." You were explaining the catch of a punch and followed by Wa-Uke. You look good..... say hi to the better half for me.

Good old days!

2008-08-16T08:57:00.000-07:00

HI George -

I watched the kumite film with interest, and had some comments - now it's been a looong time since I taught the freshman phys ed class with Dick Philbrick (vanished) and Dave Ruth (hear from him once in a while), so I suppose I could be romanticizing... anyway, I'm writing mostly to remind myself, --- you are after all the one I learned all this from!

Anyway, here was my reaction:
1. Ouch - your sparring partner has not been taught wrist position! I would teach that the very first day with my new students - with his knuckles out and wrist bent, that poor fellow will break three or four bones very painfully if he ever actually HITS anything :-)

2. You say you teach in four stages. I remember at least one that might be what you're referring to ... What about the inside hand in the circular block kumite? When I taught it, it was in stages, and the first stage didn't use the circular right block (for a right thrust parry) at all! I taught them to first use a the very fast left deflection, just guiding past the solar plexus, since they were REALLY slow for the first year in the speed of the circular block. I would bet that forgetting this essential partial block in the kumite is the reason that other student was getting hit - not being taught the full block sequence! Then I merged the left deflect and the right circular for two stages of speed and strength that could be adjusted to the need of the moment. Working on body motion, feet and balance would be part of this also.

3. I do the circular block itself with a much stronger elbow-snap-down- to-my-rib than you showed in the demo. This I think is an advanced refinement - didn't teach to the class until they got pretty advanced. But this is essential if you miss part of the block or a second thrust comes before you're ready, to protect at least part of the mid-body while you gauge your next reaction. It also adds a lot of strength and leverage of you are physically weaker than your attacker.

4. And I agree 100% that the most important and often not-learned feature of the circular block is to cover the absolute minimum area, with no wild swings to the outside, blocking useless regions far outside the attack area. (And another bad habit - raising the elbow so high the midsection is unduly exposed to, e.g., an unforeseen kick.) I would drill on these over and over to get the hand just high enough but not too high on the cross-body motion, and no outside flailing on the finish; we would mark the area and train people to keep the elbow low and stay inside a compact region by constant nagging and tactile feedback by putting an instructor arm in the "wrong" region and making fun of them if they hit it ...

...ah, the good old days.... The classes I teach now have no conceivable means of such excellent and instantaneous class-wide feedback - I always thought teaching martial arts was much more rewarding for the instructor than academics... Best, Andy

New Dojo in Alberta

2008-08-16T08:56:00.000-07:00

Good day Sensei Mattson. My name is Darrin Richter. I am a student of Doug Smith's from Edmonton Alberta. I recently tested for my shodan and was successful. I was wondering if I could be registered under your dojo directory and your blackbelt registry.

I have recently opened a small school in Lloydminster Alberta as I have moved there. I continue to train with Doug in Edmonton with a 2.5 hour drive. I was wondering if it would be alright to put a link to your website on my own website. My URL is www.bordercitykarate.com. My site is meant to be for information purposes only.

Thank you for your time.

Darrin Richter
780-872-2296

p.s. I purchased your book, Uechi-Ryu Karate-Do from your website and it has been an excellent resource for me.

Best wishes from Eva

2008-08-15T05:52:00.000-07:00

Dear George,

No one knows for sure the future.
Thousands of things which have happens and which forms our destiny.
There are extra steps you have walked down what made you the outstanding and memorable person you are.
You portray what we Martial Artists value most...commitment,the courage one need to be successful.

There are so many things We can be thankful for you.
I would like to thank you for all you do.
Thank you for the time you gave,
For your willingness to help,
You were there on our day,
Thank you sharing of your talent
We do truly appreciate,
Thank you for the beautiful gifts,- our memories,
That you've helped us to make.

Please always remember
"What we do for ourselves dies with us. What we do for others and the world remains and is immortal."

What you've done will always be appreciated and never be forgotten.

Best wishes,
--
Eva
=========================

Thanks Eva. I really do appreciate your kind words. GEM

More on the karate uniform

2008-08-15T05:51:00.001-07:00

Dear Sensei,

You are not alone in your feeling about the gi. Sensei Peter Urban rarely if ever wore a gi. Typically he just wore workout pants and no top. When he did wear any type of uniform, he preferred a Chinese looking affair.

Steve Carroll

New book Discussion

2008-08-13T04:58:00.000-07:00

George:

OOPS! I totally forgot to put my name on the list for one of the 300 hardbound editions, but would very much like to be added. I treasure your books and look forward to this newest addition.

Peace
Robb

SummerFest 2008

2008-08-13T04:37:00.001-07:00

Hey, George!

This is terrible but I am glad your plane was late so that I had the opportunity to spend time with you and Susan. That is a rare gift and I truly enjoyed the time.

As for camp, all I can say is INCREDIBLE!

Camp was especially good this year. You lined up great instructors and had a marvelous turn out. I just wish I could have gone to every class that was taught. I now need to write down all of the stuff in my head that I learned before this ‘old fart’ mind forgets. Thank you so much for setting up camp every year. I am indebted.

What’s great is that every year I have the privilege of establishing former relationships and making new ones. Your gift of Uechi to the US has been a marvelous accomplishment, and a gift of time, talent, and your treasures. I, for one, would not have had this marvelous art had you not decided to teach it.

When I work out with my Shotokan people it drives them crazy that I can get in close and get to them…and that I can grab most kicks and strikes quite often with what we have been taught. Great stuff!

I still cannot believe you have been teaching for 50 years. That is pretty amazing. You inspire me and I hope I will be doing Uechi until I’m 100. It certainly won’t be from lack of trying on my part.

Anyway, thank you, thank you, and thank you. You are the bomb!

Love,
Vicki

SummerFest 2008

2008-08-13T04:16:00.001-07:00

Mattson Sensei,

I just want to thank you for all that you did to make this years Summerfest a success for all who were in attendance. I also want to thank you for presenting, with Bruce, my Nidan certificate. Your consideration only adds to the value of my testing experience. Please pass on my thanks and highest regards to all of the members of the test board for their time. I especially want to thank Vinnie for his pre-test evaluation and his honest directives, without these I doubt that I would have passed. I don't have his email and would like eto send him a personal thank you. Could you or Bruce forward my email to him so that I might convey my thanks. Bruce it was so great to see you again, I look forward to some semi-annual extensive and intense training in the future.

Sincerely,

Scott

2008 SummerFest Mail

2008-08-11T12:40:00.000-07:00

George:

Thanks. I again enjoyed myself at the Mass. Maritime Academy training with some truly talented martial artists and teachers. As we traveled back to Sacramento, we reflected on how much information had been shared and on how much the experience caused us to think about how we are practicing and how the experience can help us improve our own training. We all agreed that the time with Art Rebesa alone was worth the journey and the price of admission (despite the fine beds). Please let him know how much we appreciated his sharing his approach to Uechi with us.

If you have any feedback for us from your observations of our training or teaching, please let me know. I welcome it.

Peace
Robb

More "History"

2008-07-31T06:08:00.003-07:00

Great article George, and very good news from one who is flying in from California!
You just saved me from bringing one of my two Gi's...
Thanks,
Paul

More "History"

2008-07-31T06:08:00.001-07:00

Interesting commentary. I've practiced in a scrub suit. Not unlike pajamas, in concept, and very light weight.

As far as belt ranking is concerned, my philosophy was never expressed more succinctly than by 'Mr. Myagi", in the "Karate Kid'.

"Canvas"

Whichever martial arts consultant to the production came up with that one, it could not have been more brilliant, or profound. Pity that philosophy is not more universal.

"May you live long and prosper"

Some day I hope to shake your hand.

Arne

More "History"

2008-07-31T06:06:00.000-07:00

George,

Great story on gi/training attire. I just arrived back from Okinawa (I work for the Navy/Marine Corps in support of H-53 aircraft) an can attest to hot hot and HUMID it gets (and I live in North Carolina), especially in July. One of most memorable scenes was at the historic RyuKyu Village (which the video displayed practitioners practicing Uechi) where the karate exhibit showed them working out in essentially thongs on the beach (I am guessing the footage was back in the 50's/60's).

On another note, like I stated above, I am in NC on the coast where there are no Uechi Dojos (I am near Cherry Point/Camp Lejeune). I did recieve my shodan under Jack Sommers back in 1988 prior to entering adult life/college/family career. While I studied some other martial arts (Shotokan/Wing Chun/Aikido/Judo) and have respect for them, my heart has always belonged to Uechi. while my body conditioning is not where it should be, I have practiced katas somewhat regularly. Would it be possible, and would you be kind enough to take an occasional look at some katas and provide feedback, if i email them. I am mostly concerned with the 3 advanced katas:seiryu, konchin, and sanseiryu.

Respectfully,

John

gi history

2008-07-31T06:05:00.001-07:00

Hi Sensei Mattson,

I couldn't agree more with the heavyweight gi thing, i always wanted one...and a black one at that...what a mistake!!! hahaha

in my first dojo black belts were allowed to wear a black gi, and not until. you could wear black pants, but only white tops. they were heavy (the dan grade gi's..around 12 oz) because we grappled alot as well as striking. but i never got that far. but i finally got a VERY heavy black gi and it's the most horrid piece of clothing i've ever worn. not only is it too heavy (18 oz!!) ...you're right it's loud, and binding. it also makes you much hotter (especially black), and light/medium gi's allow better evaporation of sweat as well, so they are cool to the touch very often. imagine an 18 oz gi soaked with sweat...and you thought it was heavy before. on top of all of that, if you do get a heavy gi, make certain that it's not an "off brand"...mine is (kim pacific) and it's just horrible, no matter how often it's washed its thick and rigid..even chafing! but i know alot of people like the iron man uniform from century, as it is brushed cotton. personally as far as heavy gi's go...i greatly prefer judo/jujutsu type material, its quieter and more comfy. and i find that the knee pad helps guys with big legs with kicking because the leg doesn't bind. but i don't think a striking based art has much need for a heavy gi anyway.

More "History"

2008-07-31T06:04:00.000-07:00

Hi George,

I read with interest your article about the karate gi and found it very interesting. I recently returned from a very hot humid Okinawa where that sweat towel was a must.

The koza dojo is being run by another Yonamine, young student of Yonamine sensei with the same name. The floor you spoke of as I remembered it from my last trip there in is now a rubber puzzle mat floor, blue and red... even in Okinawa modernization is catching up, unless it was to save on the toes.

Good luck on your 50th year and 25th year of summer camps. We wish you the best always.and many more to come.

Hello to Sue, and have a safe trip.
Steve

Uniform History feedback

2008-07-31T05:59:00.000-07:00

This article received nearly 100 e-mail from readers! Wow... and I thought the heavy gi issue was something that few people cared about. Every one of the e-mail was similar to those I'm publishing. . . GEM

they do look cool don't they!

i never liked the change in feel. going from a gi...any gi. and then going to jeans. its so different. so sometimes i trian in jeans. those kickboxers, and tkd people are possibly in for a shock i think. what do you think of maybe having at least 1 or 2 days a month or something where everyone just wears what they would wear to work, or out on the town? (obviously no dresses or skirts for the ladies of course)...just to get a more realistic feel for how it feels to do their techniques in the clothes they are most likely to be wearing. i know when i was in taekwondo i split my fair share of jeans haha
Brad

From Terry. . . Good advice, as usual!

2008-06-19T07:33:00.001-07:00

Hi Sensei,

In the world of combat and martial arts a known strategy is to show something and then take it away. For example, in classical martial arts, a savvy practitioner may show an opening or possible weakness to get the opponent to react and attack to that specific area. This strategy works because once you know what a person is going to do, it is easy to set up successful actions or counter attacks. This is the basis of the ambush and has been effectively used for centuries.

One such example would be to practice over and over again an instantaneous high block and counter to a high degree where it would be almost impossible to stop it once it was implemented. The next thing would be to "set up" your opponent by leaving an opening by maybe dropping your guard thus baiting the high attack. As soon as you see movement, you know where the attack is heading and a simultaneous counter attack is launched. The timing of the taking away of the perceived opportunity and the launching of the counter attack is the key to success.

This same strategy works in business, marketing and sales. As we see economic conditions change, more and more people are cutting prices and fighting for their small piece of the market share. At the same time there are businesses that position themselves with a unique USP and especially those that focus on the affluent market are using the take away approach and are doing well. Demonstrating the attitude that our product or service is not for everyone, and that we are very selective about who we pick to do business with is a powerful strategy. Not only will you be able to work with the top 10% of customers that will respect you and your business, you will also quickly start creating a waiting list of people asking to become members instead of fighting with your competitors over the bottom 20% of cheap customers.

In advertising you see the scarcity or limited offer used a lot... because it works. Words like "while supplies last" or having a date such as "price good only until July 3rd at noon" are all effective strategies that will boost your response in your marketing pieces.

There indeed is real scarcity, such as in your time management techniques. As you get more efficient in managing your time and making sure that you spend time on the most important business and personal activities, you will learn to limit your time with who Dan Kennedy identifies as time vampires. Time is one of the most precious things you can have and requires each of us to manage it well and spend our time wisely and at the same time avoiding time wasted on useless activities. This mandates that you set up your business in a certain way, choose your customers and inner circle wisely and set systems to get rid of people you don't want to do business with.

In a recent day I spent with Dan Kennedy, we spent a lot of time focusing on who I wanted to spend my time with, who my ideal customer is and how to target that audience while at the same time screen out the ones that I do not want to be associated with. In reference to many of my consulting clients that complain that business is slow and it seems that their prospects don't have money to buy, I suggest to you who picked them as prospects? Maybe you should start fishing in another pond.

If you are in business for yourself, and in reality we are all in the marketing and sales business, then it is up to you to understand and visualize your perfect business and then make it a reality. How many customers do you want? At what price point? What are their attitudes?

Once you have identified your perfect customer and implemented good marketing campaigns, you will find that your sales staff spends a lot of their time screening away the ones you don't want to do business with. Running a successful business and quality of life is an achievable goal if you plan it right.

To Your Success,

Terry Bryan, President
Warriorwiz Wealth Academy

From Iraq!

2008-06-19T05:51:00.001-07:00

Good morning George,
How are you doing? I hope all is well.
I am in Iraq now working on the MRAP (Mine Resitant Ambush Protected) Vehicle Program.
I am interested in a couple more of your books. What is the best way to purchase them?
Thank you
John

2008-06-19T05:40:00.001-07:00

From India

2008-06-19T05:39:00.001-07:00

Dear Sensei,

I received lot of news letters from you thanks for your letters it is helpfull for me.
I am a Shodan student in the style of Uechi-ryu/Shohei-ryu karate do and our Dojo name is Pathfinder Karate Dojo-India my Sensei Name is S.Balasubramanian.

Regards
C.V.Nishok
Pathfinder Karate Dojo-India

Skills. . .

2008-06-15T06:18:00.000-07:00

Hi Sensei,

There is an old Shaolin Monk saying which described the legendary Shaolin Monks as having incredible abilities, almost mystic in nature:
"When Looked For Could Not be Seen,
When Felt For Could Not Be Touched,
When listened for Could Not be Heard...

In reality, their incredible skills were developing the ability to see what others did not see and to hear what others did not hear. This ability is called Zanshin in Japanese which means total awareness and probably best described in English as intuition. The Latin translation of intuition is best described as "in to you" and it describes the process of taking information from the outside world and bringing that with meaning into your knowledge base. Two people can see the same thing and have completely different things. The ability to see the little things is the real difference between success and failure.

I survived 3 combat tours in South East Asia because I indeed developed a sense of awareness. As a dog handler, I learned early on to depend on the dog's eyes and ears because he could see and hear things I could not which in many situations made a difference between life and death. There were other things I had the ability to hear but did not understand and yet later became second nature to my survival. For example, at time the insects and small animals would go silent, almost undetectable to the average person, but to the trained warrior you knew that meant that someone was approaching. These little signs are everywhere and many times become instinct even if you don't know exactly what is cause your "Gut Feeling".

These subtle signs are everywhere from personal relationships to successful business operations. In many of the mastermind groups I belong to, one of the most valuable information you walk away with is developing the ability to see something in the eyes of another person, especially a successful person in a field you are interested in.

With the help of many mentors and coaches over the years, I have now developed the ability to look at a real estate investment opportunity or a business and very quickly identify the issues needed to correct to improve performance. Much like the times I spent working with elite athletes and helping them reach their peak performance, many times it takes just a few minor adjustments.

To develop your inner awareness it is important to work on detachment and seeing things the way they really are, not how you wished them to be. Once you understand the truth, or as my mentor Dan Kennedy would say, "The NO BS Truth" then you can create realistic goals and action plans. Later you can use your mental powers to create the future that you desire.

Don't ever underestimate your abilities to feel the truth or what is called the 6th sense. In my opinion, women have developed this to a higher level than men and because of this, if Diana ever tells me something just doesn't feel right, I will stop... go back and relook at everything before making a decision.

I think martial artists are good at developing this awareness because of their relaxation or mediation techniques most styles use. By letting the mind go a few minutes a day, you let the subconscious take over and grow. Many people have found that if they ever have a problem that during the meditation process the answer comes to them, or maybe taking a walk and thinking of something else completely, that all of a sudden it just comes to them out of nowhere.

Once you learn to combine the ability to sense or feel the right solution; combined with the specialized knowledge you get from hanging out with other successful people, you will be amazed of your achievements. While getting the specialized knowledge you need in the field you are working on is important, don't neglect training your inner self. You may indeed discover your most powerful weapon of all.

To Your Success,

Terry Bryan, Warriorwiz

Newsletter feedback. . .

2008-06-11T12:47:00.000-07:00

Very good article Sensei. Of course, should we expect anything less from you? Osu!

May I chime in on a variation of your themes? I see you mention it a bit. I am talking more off angle attacks and defenses? 45 degrees, 180, etc. responses to attacks to teach changing directions (Oops there is a wall behind me!) The attacker will come at you from what would be considered a "surprise" attack while building peripheral vision, etc.

Your thoughts?

Osu.

S. Nieves

Your suggestions would fit nicely into the "progression" drill options. One should feel comfortable moving in all directions. . . keeping in mind the position of your opponent and the options for defense your movements present.

Best,

George

Wow! Another Karate "First". . .

2008-06-11T06:56:00.001-07:00

Sensei George.

I sure appreciate your newsletter. I admire you immensely.
Hey, I flat-lined on the operating table last week. Went in for surgery on my left ear to correct an hereditary problem that had caused substantial hearing loss. Whatever anesthesia they injected me with caused my heart to code five minutes into the operation. They gave CPR for four minutes. They later did full-body-scan tests, stress tests, ultra-sound, etc. My heart strength registered at 75...the average person's is in the 60's. And this was after all I had been through. Doctors are amazed not only at that, but the fact that I have had no soreness in the chest whatsoever. Dr. Doug Wunderly, a cardiologist in Kalamazoo and a long-time karate student of Sensei Thompson's, figures that years of karate training is the reason why. The tests show no damage was done.

Cheers,

Jim Gemmell

News from Duncan MacLeod!

2008-06-10T08:53:00.001-07:00

Hi George;

It's been a while since we have talked and I apologize.After hearing your message on my phone this a.m.,It hit home just how long it really has been.Unfortunately I do have a legit reason that seems logical to me.In the past 4.5 years I have had three total hip operations.

The first was Sept.03 the last one was Sept.07.So needless to say I've been a bit preoccupied with my health problems,and oh by the way some residual depression.This has definitely been the hardest hurdle I've had to get over in my life.BUT I am hanging in there.I'm still teaching and only stopped long enough to have my ops, 5 weeks rehab in each case.Although I had to semi retire because I could not keep up with the demand of more than 1 class a night a couple nights a week.

I had a very active club happening,including a world class kickboxing program,with fighters who competed all over the world and won silver and bronze medals in international tournaments. Hence the residual depression knowing that I no longer can be who I used to be on the same physical level. BUT as I said I am hanging in there.I also see that Vinnie is due for a hip replacement operation soon. Please tell him good luck and to get back on the horse as soon as he can because it is the best therapy.

I will call you in the next couple of days because I find it so hard to express myself in this form of media. My e-mail address should be attached to this so I will be very easy to contact in the future. Also I may try to get to the Summer Camp this year, something that is long over due. It may only be for Friday night and Saturday,with departure Sunday. Hopefully you still allow day trippers.I may even try to convince Dave Hunt to make the trip with me. Anyway take care and you will be hearing from me in the next few days.

From Tiger Martial Arts

2008-06-04T11:04:00.000-07:00

Hi Sensei George!

I wanted to share a picture of TMA's black belts! I have 4 of them coming to Uechi Camp this year!!! Though we are the only "official" Uechi dojo in Washington that I know of - I just wanted you to know that we are thriving and spreading Uechi Ryu! Our goal is to make Whidbey Island - Uechi Island! We are up to 115 students!

In the picture:
Back row: Carole Hansen - Shodan, Corey Henderson - Shodan, Nick Bibich - Sandan, Jennee Bouthillier - Shodan, Sarah Kelso - Shodan
Front row: Mike Buxton - Shodan, Sensei Fedele Cacia, Wendi Barker - Yondan, Desire McDaniel - Shodan

Thank you for Uechi Ryu!

Wendi
Tiger Martial Arts
(360)331-5619
www.tigermartialarts.info

Looking for Sensei

2008-06-04T11:02:00.001-07:00

Hi Mr. Mattson,

Anyone looking for a good Uechi Ryu Dojo in SW Florida, check out the Uechi Ryu dojo in Fort Myers, Florida that was started by Keosh Bass, and has been continued by his wife Renshi Bass (of the Uechi Ryu Association of America) after his passing. You can also learn Kendo and Iaido. Here is the link: www.bushi-kan.com

I am currently stuck in Miami, but none the less it is awesome to be able to email you,and it would be awesome to meet you some day, your wisdom is respected by many (as i'm sure you know). I haven't been able to train in a dojo in awhile, but I always try to keep myself active with strikes and so forth.

Thanks for your time,
Roderick

From Mike Zwerdling

2008-06-04T10:58:00.000-07:00

For his friends with High Cholesterol:

Not knowing which of my friends were using statins, the most commonly prescribed anti-cholesterol agent, I sent this "mass mailing" to everyone in my personal address book. If you use an anti-cholesterol drug, please read on. If not, please excuse me. If you're not sure, here's the listing for the generic and brand names of the most commonly used statins. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Statin

After doing my own search on this topic, I have concluded that if you take any of the statins, you should be taking Coenzyme Q - 10 (CO-Q10, CQ10, etc.) along with it. Here's one fairly definitive study. If you don't want to read all 22 pages of the article, just read the intro which includes the mine point summary.

http://www.fda.gov/OHRMS/DOCKETS/dailys/02/May02/052902/02p-0244-cp00001-02-Exhibit_A-vol1.pdf

Although most studies I've read list the drug amount (usually 100 mg per day) given to the test subjects, they fail to mention the effectiveness of smaller dosages. Since 100 mg seems to work, and since I can find few studies which indicate that less than 100 mg/day works, I suggest 100 mg per day unless you can find studies which indicate otherwise, and if you do, please let me know about them. There are sufficient studies probing for toxic levels and 100 mg seems to be far below the dosages creating noticeable side effects or toxicity.

Of course as with all OTC drugs, you cannot be 100% certain what available amount of the primary ingredient is contained in the formula, nor what the shelf life is. Given that the drug is not particularly expensive to manufacture, (there's a tremendous markup at the retail level) you may wish simply to rely on the reputation of the distributor when choosing which brand to buy. I personally buy online from Puritan's Pride. http://www.puritan.com/ They are much, much cheaper than Walgreen's, CVS or even Wal-Mart. Three 60 tab bottles cost $23.86 or about 7½ per pill. Locally, the best price was $19.95 for a meager 30 pills, for a whopping $1.50 per pill.

Another online source with a good reputation is Vitamin Shoppe, which has some local brick and mortar stores as well. http://www.vitaminshoppe.com

From Duncan MacLeod

2008-06-04T10:56:00.000-07:00

Hi George; > It's been a while since we have talked and I apologize.After hearing your message on my phone this a.m.,It hit home just how long it really has been.Unfortunately I do have a legit reason that seems logical to me.In the past 4.5 years I have had three total hip operations. The first was Sept.03 the last one was Sept.07.So needless to say I've been a bit preoccupied with my health problems,and oh by the way some residual depression.This has definitely been the hardest hurdle I've had to get over in my life.BUT I am hanging in there.I'm still teaching and only stopped long enough to have my ops, 5 weeks rehab in each case.Although I had to semi retire because I could not keep up with the demand of more than 1 class a night a couple nights a week.I had a very active club happening,including a world class kickboxing program,with fighters who competed all over the world and won silver and bronze medals in international tournaments.Hence the residual depression knowing that I no longer can be who I used to be on the same physical level.BUT as I said I am hanging in there.I also see that Vinnie is due for a hip replacement operation soon.Please tell him good luck and to get back on the horse as soon as he can because it is the best therapy.I will call you in the next couple of days because I find it so hard to express myself i n this form of media.My e-mail address should be attached to this so I will be very easy to contact in the future.Also I may try to get to the Summer Camp this year, something that is long over due.It may only be for Friday night and Saturday,with departure Sunday.Hopefully you still allow day trippers.I may even try to convince Dave Hunt to make the trip with me.Anyway take care and you will be hearing from me in the next few days.

Bruce Witherell "Presenting" at SummerFest this year

2008-06-04T10:52:00.000-07:00

George, The self-defense theme for camp is right up my ally. I would also like to present my Ju-kumite at the masters celebration as my thesis. This is something I developed about 15 years ago and I teach it at all of my self- defense classes. It's a great combination of Uechi techniques and ju-jitsu. I know you have seen it a few times and I'm sure you remember it.

Bruce

Mike Black - formally from Boston area...

2008-06-04T10:51:00.001-07:00

I'm sure this will be a great tournament
======================================

Dear Sensei Mattson:

It would be an honor if you could attend our event on Saturday, June 14th in Gainesville, Florida. Our headmaster from Kagoshima, Japan, Iwao Tamotsu will be there along with karateka from USA, Puerto Rico, Dominican, Panama and Mexico.
Let me know if you might be able to visit us. Thank you.

Mike Black
Renshinkan Karate
352-264-0205
352-332-0236

So many people are complaining...

2008-06-04T10:49:00.000-07:00

they can't find anything on my uechi-ryu.com site, so my favorite student sent me this:

Remember you can always refer people to www.GeorgeEMattson.com

I designed the website with people in mind who have trouble finding things on your website. There are very easy to find, direct links to the Summerfest Application, Virtual Dojo, IUKF membership and your store. It is very easy to negogiate and I get compliments on it all the time.

Missed you this week at class.

Patty

Looking for Sensei

2008-06-04T10:47:00.001-07:00

DEAR MR. MATTSON:

MY NAME AND ADDRESS IS AS FOLLOWS:

WILLIAM J. MURRAY
621 ROSA COURT
PALM BEACH GARDENS, FLORIDA 33410

IN THE YEAR 1997 I STUDIED UECHI-RYU WITH SENSEI DON BAKER AT GOLD'S GYM IN PALM BEACH GARDENS FLORIDA. ON AUGUST 21, 1997 I WAS AWARDED THE RANK OF 5TH KYU GREENBELT BY THE UNITED STATES UECHI RYU KARATAE ASSOCIATION.

I AM CURENTLY RE-LEARNING FROM YOUR BOOK UECHIRYU KARATE DO AND FROM VIDEO TAPES BY ROD MIDLIN AND PANTHER PRODUCTIONS. HOWEVER, I FEEL THAT I NEED IN PERSON TRAINING INSTRUCTION.

I WOULD APPRECIATE YOUR ASSISTANCE IN LOCATING SENSEI DON BAKER OR ADVISING ME OF THE NEAREST LOCATION THAT I COULD RECEIVE INSTRUCTION.

THANKING YOU IN ADVANCE

WILLILAM J. MURRAY

Real Martial Artist!

2008-06-04T10:39:00.002-07:00

Inner Training/Outer Training.
I remember a lesson my Sensei once taught me when I was about twelve or thirteen.
We had this sort of 'inner-circle' group of very serious people that I was about to be welcomed into, people in the group called it 'Warrior's Journey' and one of the books we had to read as part of the initial entrance was 'Way of the Peaceful Warrior' by Dan Millman.

At the time I didn't really understand it, but after so many years since then, things have really sunk in.

The lesson in question was about sweeping the floor. Bud Cook Sensei, the Chief Instructor of the Aikido Program at the Evergreen Learning Center was sweeping the Dojo floor, Sensei told me to go take the broom from him and sweep myself, to share the responsibility of Dojo cleaning, he compared it to Shoji, or Temple Cleaning in Zen Buddhist Temples.

I hesitated, I asked Cook Sensei if he would like me to do the sweeping, he said no and continued to sweep the floor, unsure of myself, I simply backed away, taking his word for it.

Sensei got up, took the broom from Cook Sensei and swept the floor in his place, I did not understand the meaning of the lesson at that time, I think I was a bit too young to understand the deeper aspects or the magnitude of the journey on which I was about to embark.

Karate, for me, had been more about tournaments and sport, something interesting to do after school and a group of friends to do it with.

Kata, at that time, was a dance used to gain points the way they do with forms in Gymnastics, and sparring was something completely different, neither one seemed to coincide, but again, I was too young to think twice about any of it.
That all changed very quickly, and it did not take long for me to begin to question the way things were done.

Now I realize the lesson behind sweeping the floor in Sensei's place. It was not about respecting their authority, although I am certain this was an aspect of it, but it was more about my hesitation to do so.

If I hesitated in grabbing the broom, how can I expect to respond quickly and effectively in other areas, whether they are fighting, working, or anything else.
It is about training the mind as much as training the body. If the mind is hesitant, uncertain, whatever the case may be, then it will reflect not only in Karate technique, but every other aspect of life as well.

You will not be able to land a powerful strike, you will not be able to execute an effective lock or escape or throw, your body will be broken, you will be out of harmony with yourself.

In other areas you might not perform well at your job, which will effect that next promotion or pay raise, it will effect how you drive a car, how you walk down the street, how you interact with others, even in the smallest way.

In training we not only seek to be effective Karateka, we seek to be effective human beings.

We seek to eliminate this sort of thing from every aspect of our lives, to delve into things with the ferocity, focus, and indomitable spirit of a warrior on a battlefield.

This, too, will reflect not only in our Karate, but in EVERY SINGLE ASPECT OF OUR LIVES.

These days this sort of thing seems to be overlooked in many schools, both traditional and non-traditional alike.

People think it is all physical, they work their muscles, they train their bodies hard, but neglect the internal aspect of training altogether. This is only half a Karateka.

There is a huge difference between a mere fighter and a Martial Artist, and that difference is in how much they train or do not train in the above aspect.

Remember Mike Black??

2008-06-04T10:39:00.001-07:00

George: If I remember, I came in 4th place in black belt fighting at your 1971 or 1972 tournament in Boston. I was the only one in the whole tournament that had to go to the hospital (Dennis Passeretti broke my glasses that cut me over my eye). Ahhh the good old days....lol. Plus Joe Campisi (my instructor) and I always tried to attend your events whenever possible.

Let me know anytime you might want to visit the Gainesville area. My wife Angela (a former George Pesare student), cooks a mean lasagna.

Mike Black

George Mattson wrote:
> OK. . . Now I remember you!
>
> :)
>
> Best,
> George
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Michael Black [mailto:mblack@gator.net]
> Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2008 9:19 AM
> To: George Mattson
> Subject: Re: Tounament
>
> Sensei Mattson:
>
> Thank you for your response. Say hi to everyone up in New England for
> me. I have many fond memories of my battles with some of your students.
> I really loved getting beaten up by the likes of Jim Maloney and Bob
> Bethony but at least I gave them their money's worth. Make sure you
> have some of that great lobster up there.
>
> Sincerely,
>
> Mike Black
>
> George Mattson wrote:
>
>> Hi Mike:
>>
>> Many thanks for your kind invitation. I'm scheduled to be in New
>> England on the 16^th , but if I can get back to Florida early, I'd be
>> honored to attend your tournament.
>>
>> I've posted your announcement in my dojo and a couple of my black
>> belts said they will be attending.
>>
>> Good luck with your tournament and please stay in touch.
>>
>> Best,
>>
>> George Mattson

Hi From Andy Hanson...

2008-06-04T10:35:00.000-07:00

Hi George -
For some totally odd reason I was wondering what ever happened to
Harry Brawley, googled him and found that you had moved to Florida
and had become a blogosphere of your own! I'll actually be in Boston
Sunday and Monday, and had been wondering if you would still be there,
but it seems not.
Anyway, I'm doing fine, still work out (in the middle of a long jog) several
times a week, though I do just the basic three kata slowly and strongly so as to
maintain the aging joints in good shape. Check out my web page - you
might still recognize me - you look the same as ever in your photo :-)
http://www.cs.indiana.edu/~hanson/

Take care - hope you are well.

Best wishes, Andy Hanson
(from all the way back at Columbus Avenue,
with Dave Ruth and Dick Philbrick, all recruited to Uechi-Ryu
by Will Zachman as I recall)

Where do you want to start

2008-03-25T17:39:00.000-07:00

I always look forward to receiving email from Terry Bryan. This one is really good and one I hope you will enjoy.

George
==========================================================

Spring is here and most people understand that spring time it the time to renew and set things straight. For thousands of years, people have learned that you plan and plant in the spring, work hard during the summer and get a harvest in the fall. As you start reviewing what you need to do this spring in order for you to reach your harvest goals this fall, now is the time to start with a fresh look at where you are at and what you want to achieve. The following was written by Lee Milteer that I have permission to share with my inner circle students

Part of redefining your future deals with having specific, measurable, timely, achievable, and realistic goals. Here are some questions to ask yourself that will help you to create these for your future. Mold the examples below to fit you and your lifestyle.

Physical: In the next year, exactly what are you going to do to become healthier and in better shape?
• Exactly what do you want to weigh?
• What is the date that you will be your ideal weight?
• What are you willing to do to reach that weight?
• What type of foods are you now going to start to eat to nurture your body?
• What foods are you going to eliminate from your diet?
• What support system could you use?
• What physical exercise will you start?
• What sports do you want to learn or improve in?
• How often and how long will you exercise?
• Where will you exercise?
• Who could you form a support system with to keep yourself motivated to exercise?

Family: What can you do to create a closer, more harmonious relationship with your spouse, children, parents, in-laws, and relatives?
• What can you do to be a better role model?
• What family activities could you start to improve your relationships?
• How can you reinforce the positive in your relationships?
• How can you express your love to your family better?

Career or Profession: What could you do to improve your level of enjoyment for your work?
• How can you earn more money or get a promotion?
• How can you keep a positive attitude?
• What strategies can you use to continue your education and improve your life skills?
• What professional groups could you join to improve your networking skills?
• Are you really happy with this position? If not, where do you really want to be?

Mental or Self-Development: How can you improve yourself over the next year?
• What type of self-improvement courses will you take?
• How many non-fiction books are you going to read this year?
• How many audio programs will you invest in this year?
• What new skills and procedures will you learn this year?
• What programs are you adding to your personal computer (your brain)?
• What lectures are you planning to attend this year?

Financial: What will you do to improve your finances this year?
• How much are you going to save this year?
• How much are you saving for retirement?
• How much are you budgeting for your education fund?
• What type of investments do you plan to make this year?
• How much do you plan on saving in five years? In ten years?

Community Support: What can you do this year to be active in your community?
• What volunteer work are you planning for this year?
• What civic office or committee could benefit from your time?
• How much can you donate of your time and money to worthwhile projects?

Spirituality: How will you improve your spirituality this year?
• What can you do daily to feel more in touch with yourself and your creator?
• What are you doing to heal yourself emotionally?

Personal Appearance: How will you improve your appearance this year?
• What are you going to do to look and feel your very best?
• What areas of appearance need attention?
• What clothes, hair, makeup, personal style need to be updated?

Free Time and Hobbies: How will you give yourself more free time?
• How many times per week can you play?
• When can you schedule play time for yourself and your family and friends?
• Where do you want to go on vacation this year?

Stress Management: How can you reduce your negative stress load?
• How can you relax and enjoy your life and your blessings?
• How can you create an environment that supports you?

Creativity: What will you do to foster your creativity this year?
• How can you use your creativity to improve the quality of your life?
• How can you tap into your creativity to make more money and security in your future?

Personal Relationships: How will you improve your personal relationships this year?
• What can you do that will strengthen your relationships with friends, neighbors, co-workers, and associates?
• How can you release all blame, guilt, anger, and grudges towards other people?
• How can you show appreciation to your friends more often?

Start Now

Spend one hour fantasizing about what you want your life to look like at the end of this year. Answer all the above questions and add some questions of your own. Write out your answers with as much detail as possible. Setting goals helps you produce specific, measurable, long-lasting changes in yourself. This simple act of getting started will do more for your success than nearly anything else possible. The only true limitation in life is our lack of belief in our own abilities.

This strategy for redefining your future will transform you from being a thinker with good intentions to a doer and achiever. You’ll be more motivated, optimistic, and you’ll feel more in control of your life than ever before. Your point of power is always in the present. Focus your energies in the direction of your heart’s desires.

To Your Success,
Terry Bryan and Lee Milteer

Practice basics - because all basics are alike!

2008-03-13T09:00:00.000-07:00

Activities Schedule: March 21-25th, 2008 - see below
Suryadi Jafri, always questioned us on what is correct. "Practice this way, practice that way, what do you practice?" The answer was simple, practice basics, because all basics are alike. But which technique do I use? "The one that works", was his reply.

Sound simple, yes, but the work you do in practice must adhere to the principles of why you practice. Practice for..... do not practice against. Many individuals have questioned the way I teach, have gone so far as to criticize, ridicule and in other ways put someone or some system down. The key to the madness of what to practice or with whom to practice with is a simple.

Do not rely on the system studied, but the teacher sharing is the key. I have been well recommended by people that know the deal. Others that bring negativity to the scene are usually the ones hat have not done the practice or consider themselves the one and only true (blah, blah) you know the deal. So I say to you, why not just practice by being for the practice you make. Being against someone or the way they do it won't help you. That's why I always say, when asked, why not see what others are saying that KNOW me, have worked with me, and understand what and why we practice, so see for yourself at http://kalisilat.org/testimony.html

This then comes down to again what works in a real situation. In a real situation, you probably won't be ready, unless you're on the battlefield. (Yes, as in war.) Because we don't live on the battlefield, but do occasionally cross it I say you have to rely on your instinct. If you think something is wrong, it's probably so. This is why many educated individuals realize success in practice, and in life because they strive for the importance of being positive. Being positive reaps positive energy. As Dr. Wayne Dyer would say, "being for something" is a positive energy. Being against something is a negative energy, which side do you live on?

And this brings me to the understanding as to what practice I should make, being for Pekiti Tirsia, is correct, because in this system we were shown from the beginning what is the system. Made up of the original 36 attacks, it was expended on with one more drill which brought us to 42 strikes in the system practiced in with every method of the footwork individually.

If you know where to look, then look there again, Kali Silat resides in the same place.

Saturdays, Sundays Kali Silat in Chinatown, NYC. - Starting warm weather 50 + 7:30am to 10:00 AM - cold weather we are in the Parks Department Bulding 9:30am Saturday / Sunday at 77 Mulberry St. BLT Sporting - store both in Chinatown, NYC. Classes taught by Guru Paul White in Chinatwon during 22, 23 of March as usual.

Activities Schedule: March 21-25th, 2008
March 21- 25th, 2008 5 Day program at Hybrid Academy, 5476 Va. Beach Blvd. Virginia Beach, VA 23462 This is an intensive instructor candidate program. If you have students and are not teaching you can add Kali Silat to your school's program. We look forward to being together with our friends, with Master Dennis Ocampo, Guru Gerry, Guru Gary, and other well known instructors in the systems of martial arts, including guest speaker Herbalist, Guru Thorin Blanco. - See you in Virginia Beach for a program you won't believe, do the work and you get it, it is quite simple, but very profound. regards, Greg

New York Dojo

2008-03-11T09:40:00.000-07:00

George,

Long time no speak. I hope all is going well with you and Susan and you are enjoying your retirement in Florida. Someday I will pay you a visit.

All is good here in NY. Just working hard and trying to keep very fit. I have started a new Uechi-Ryu School in the Long Island area and just to let you know so you can spread the news to the Uechi community and maybe mention it on the Uechi website. . Can you do me a big favor and please update my phone number on the Uechi directory as 516-467-4825 as well. Thank you.

Although the class will be taught traditional Uechi as we know it, with my blackbelt in Judo as well I will be working with students separately on how to combine both Uechi and Judo technique, throws, foot sweeps and grappling etc for a very powerful and practical form of self defense. I have trained and competed in Judo around the country with some of the best including Jimmy Pedro and ultimate fight Igor Zinoviev of Russia who trains in NY.

I believe Jay and I will be planning on attending the camp this year with a few of my students. (Job permitting of course). I am hoping that this email finds you and the family happy and healthy and I look forward to our long standing relationship and fondness for the arts.

Best regards always,

Chris

Chris Ronzoni

Detox info

2007-10-19T04:45:00.000-07:00

Sensei Mattson,
My sister is a renowned alternative clinical therapist. If you are interested in diet changes that make a difference, she recommends processed sugar elimination and gluten elimination. I'm happy to forward you the diets at your request, I've been off sugar for three years and off gluten for about a year. The difference is palpable.
Regards,
Stan Helinski
===============
Hi Sensei,
She doesn't mind at all, in fact, they are posted online. The two she believes everyone should be on are the processed sugar and gluten, gluten being extremely important. I've seen incredible differences in energy and awareness being off both for so long.
Here's the link… http://www.eliteimt.com/diet.htm
Have a great day,
Stan
===============
Very welcome. You should know that the sugar elimination has a prominent detox period, usually accompanied by nausea and sometimes vomiting after day 3. This is expected. Sugar is hidden in just about everything, such as just about any kind of retail juice. The definition of “juice concentrate” is containing approx 50% “fruit drink,” which is defined as sugar and juice mixture. It takes time to figure it all out, but once you do, it’s quite worth it.

Good luck!

Stan

Jay Nussbaum's new novel

2007-10-19T04:27:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone,

I hope this email doesn't come as an unwelcome intrusion, but I wanted to let all of you know that my new novel, A Monk Jumped Over a Wall, will be coming out November 1, and I'd sure appreciate your support. It's available for pre-order now on Amazon.com and all the online bookseller websites. I do genuinely believe that anyone with an interest in martial arts--especially if your interest extends beyond the physical part to the philosophical component--will love this book. Because notwithstanding the poor kicking form displayed by the silhouette on the book's cover, the inside part delves into the heart of martial arts and Eastern philosophy, all within the context of a very funny, moving story.

Okay, now the requisite part about how many other people love it and, therefore, so should you:

The American Booksellers Association has just decided to include it on their prestigious "BookSense Picks" list for November. Bookstore professionals have embraced it, such as Kester Smith: "Nussbaum writes like a more literary John Grisham meets a less English Nick Hornby...During a time when literary can too often mean confusing or adorable, Nussbaum is neither. A Monk Jumped Over A Wall is concise and compassionate..." And Terry Lucas: "I haven't been pulled into a book in this way for some time and I thank you for the experience." And then there are the reviewers. Kirkus reviews called it a "meaningful look at the strength it takes to shed the person you thought you were to become the person you were meant to be" and "Bittersweet and unflinchingly real." And Publishers Weekly said: "[T]he story could not be more timely."

You can read more about it on my publisher's website: http://www.tobypress.com/books/monkjumpedoverwall.htm. (My own site, www.jaynussbaum.com, will hopefully go live next week.) Please pick up a copy for yourself, and for everyone you've ever met.

Thanks for your time, and if you get the book, please let me know what you think of it.

Warmest regards,
Jay Nussbaum

Uechi-ryu and Goju???

2007-10-19T04:22:00.000-07:00

Mattson Sensei,

I read the following discription at http://www.martial-arts-info.com/137/uechi-ryu/

Martial Arts: Uechi Ryu
Uechi Ryu is one of the four original styles of karate in Okinawa. Uechi Ryu utilises many kicking and striking techniques drawn from Chinese Kempo. Uechi Ryu practices some of the Goju Ryu kata especially Sanchin, Sanseiru and Sesan. Uechi Ryu also draws other influences from Goju Ryu including low leg kicks, grappling and takedowns. Uechi Ryu is considered a hard style of karate, which is ideally suited to fighting at close range.

Origin of Uechi Ryu: Okinawa

Founder of Uechi Ryu: Uechi Kanbun (+1949)

Popularised by: George Mattson

That does not sound accurate to me. I am not trying to start an Internet Fight, but I am thinking the part about some of Uechi/Pangai-Noon kata coming out from Goju Ryu is misleading. Please correct me if I am wrong.

Osu.

E. Samuel Nieves.

You are correct Sam. The only thing Uechi and Goju share is the "names" of some kata.

Best,
George

More Interesting Newsletter responses

2007-10-19T04:20:00.000-07:00

George,

I read with great interest your article on you and Susan's detox program.

Now approaching 61 I have also been examining my health and eating habits.

I DID have my long dreaded colonoscopy this year with only three small non-malignant polyps discovered. I also had put this off for years and should not have.

My wife, an active tennis player and golfer, had a heart episode resulting in five stints recently. This has resulted in a better diet finding it's way into our kitchen.

However, I myself had not committed myself to a better overall diet but thanks to your article I am now motivated to do so.

I continue to practice my Uechi regularly but unfortunately not in a dojo. I have also dabbled in Tai Chi and Zen. I feel Tai Chi and Zen round out my Uechi training.

Denise and I are now in our winter residence here on Hilton Head Island playing lots of golf and tennis. There are no Uechi dojos in the area.

We are taking out kids and grand kids to Disney in a few weeks and will play golf at the Jack Nicklaus course in Windemere and also will play the Celebration course. Is your dojo nearby? I doubt there would be time for a workout but you never know.

Regards,
Norm Drainville

Newsletter comment from Chairman of IUKF

2007-10-19T04:19:00.001-07:00

From our own Dr. Paul Haydu:

Very nice newsletter, George. I'm sure your private lesson students are getting allot out of their work with you! It's a great way to reach students all over the world.

Glad to hear that you and Susan are starting a path towards good health. I particularly appreciated your call to our overweight brothers and sisters to take their own health into their own hands...and to be good role models in the process!

Best,
Paul

October Newsletter responses

2007-10-19T04:06:00.000-07:00

Received over a hundred email from all over the world in response to my last newsletter. I wrote an article for my home page on this response. Here are a few of these e-mail:

From one of my early students - from the Columbus Avenue Dojo era:

George...

Many thanks for the description of your detox program. Much appreciate being on your mailing list.

Simplifying our diet here in Maine has been a goal of mine for some time. I find that the fewer the ingredients, the simpler -- and usually the healthier -- the meal.

Here are three cookbooks that have helped me a good deal in this effort...

Cooking with Three Ingredients -- Andrew Schloss

500 3-Ingredient Recipes -- Robert Hildebrand and Carol Hildebrand

Fix-It and Forget-It 5-Ingredient Favorites -- Comforting Slow-Cooker Recipes -- Phyllis Pellman Good

I use my six quart Rival Crock-Pot to create simple, yet interesting meals of just inexpensive pork, lamb or chicken and vegetables. I usually turn the leftovers into delicious soup with almost no effort at all -- just add stock. Make sure you either make your own stock
-- without salt -- or buy low salt stock.

I hope you find these suggestions useful!

Harry Brawley
Simple Works
Mount Desert, Maine
====================
From a cancer survivor and senior black belt of Uechi-ryu:
=====================

Hi Geoge:

Happy belated birthday, I wish you many more. Congratulations on your detox and weight loss. Health is a wonderful thing and we are fortunate to be able to control certain aspects of our health through proper diet and supplements. Health to you and yours.
JC
========================

From another cancer surviver and senior Black Belt
======================

I must have used my speed reading talents,,I thought it was a fine write. Of course I DO understand the medical feelings that go into such an effort. Just keep me posted..I'm up in Boston Monday,,,same ole crap. Needles and pins,,,pee in jugs....Played golf with Art yesterday,,,we both we terrible. I mean I haven't played so bad in years. Haven't had a decent game in weeks. I think I might hang em up for now. Never ever felt that way but it's frustrating as hell. I don't know if we are coming to Fla. this year. Will let you know. Best to Susan.
Bill

SummerFest "feedback"

2007-08-22T12:11:00.000-07:00

George,

Thank you for a wonderful weekend at SummerFest 2007! Both my son Marc and I had a terrific time and enjoyed the wide variety of classes, instructors and experiences. We especially enjoyed taking classes with you each morning – going through the opening exercises, the katas and hearing your analysis of the Uechi Style!

For my son Marc, the highlight was the Fire Dragon Challenge competition and afterwards demonstrating his kata for you. It was such an amazing experience for someone his age – to be able to participate in this competition and to receive feedback from you on his kata.

We are looking forward to the 2008 Fest and the 50^th year anniversary of your bringing the Uechi style to America and the 25^th anniversary of the SummerFests!

Thank you again for a fantastic experience.

One request – one of the women who ran the Fire Dragon Challenge (Vicki or Sue) took photos of the competition – and took my email address to send me some pictures of my son, Marc in the competition and afterwards while doing his kata for you. Could you please pass along my request for copies of these photos? Many thanks!

Sharon

Looking for a dojo in TX

2007-07-31T13:04:00.000-07:00

Hi Mr. Mattson,

We were referred to you by Jennifer and Mike Luth for some possible advice. We are moving to Texas from Pepperell Massachusetts and have had our daughter working with Luth’s Family Karate for the past year. She has progressed well and is currently a purple belt with one stripe. We’d very much like to keep her with the Uechi Ryu style but are having a hard time locating a school near Murphy, Texas, just north of Dallas.

Mrs. Luth mentioned that you may be of assistance in finding a school. I see that on the “dojo links”, there are only a couple Texas dojos listed. Is this all of them, or might there be a way to find one closer to Murphy? Any guidance would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,

Ray and Kelly

Other than those in the Registry, I don't know of any other dojo. Perhaps someone will see this letter who can help you. (Since I don't publish e-mail, please email me and I'll pass along any messages)
Best,
George

Uechi-ryu Karate Do Books!

2007-07-31T12:53:00.000-07:00

Dear Mr. Mattson:

I and my friend Andy Hickman have been taking instruction in Uechi-ryu karate from Keith Beldam here on Salt Spring Island in British Columbia Canada. I've found your book " Uechiryu Karate Do" a most helpful adjunct to my lessons with Keith. I've borrowed the book from my classmate Andy and its become a bit worn.

There seems to be some difficulty getting the book here in Canada. Do you have one that I could purchase? Thanks for your help. Ian Gummeson

Hi Ian:

These books are now very scarce and expensive. Amazon is offering them for between $140 - $500! They are now out of print.

Our Uechi store has a few which we are selling for $125, but they are going fast.

Sorry,

George.