Monday, November 22, 2010

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]

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Old Student remembers. . .

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

Saturday, August 28, 2010

Mount Dora Classes. . .

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

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

SummerFest 2010 Feedback. . .

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.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

SummerFest 2010 Forum???

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

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

From Dr. Paul Haydu, Chairman IUKF

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