December 18, 2004 (from previous year but not posted) --What is the relationship between USAKF, AAU, NASKA, WUKO, USANKF and the USOC?? ---- Sensei George Anderson; You were part of the USA Karate Team that I was on in 1991 when we competed in Kyoto Japan [Under Masafumi Suzuki 10 Dan, Principle of Dai Nippon Seibukan]. I am Sensei Tim Thompson, a 6th degree Black Belt Shihan under Master Tadashi Yamashita. I have a few questions that I hope you can answer for me or guide me in the right direction. 1. What is the relationship between USAKF, AAU, NASKA, WUKO, USANKF and the USOC? 2. I was told that the only way to get on the USA Karate Olympic Team was through the USANKF. Is this true? 3. When will Karate-do be an official Olympic sport? Thank You CDR “Sensei” Tim Thompson Naval Base # (757) 443-5843

Reply ----- Dear Tim, Good to hear from you, and I will try to answer some of your questions. – I was one of the highest ranks under Masafumi Suzuki at that time and until his death when he left instructions for me to look after the Seibukan personnel, which I could hardly do as I never became closely acquainted with them. – I do remember you and I hope that you are prospering as well as Master Tadashi Yamashita. – The USAKF is the group that took karate to the Olympic family. After a hassle when we got into the Pan American Games, we withdrew to work on karate, free from politics, and the USA-NKF took our place in the Olympic family. The USAKF was the National AAU Karate Committee, Inc., which was forced to change its named and leave the AAU family when it entered the Olympic family. Joe Mirza was then named Chairman of the AAU where he now resides. He, and nearly all their personnel, including Minobu Miki, were members of the USAKF. WUKO is now the WKF and the Pan American Union or Karatedo Organizations (PUKO), is now the Pan American Karate Union. (I was first-vice president of the WUKO, president of the PUKO, and still am president of the USAKF). — The USA-NKF is the Olympic representative under Julius Thiry but can be hardly said to represent US karate as such. The USAKF has many of its athletes competing there but the costs are so high and the scope so narrow that we do not sent people who really have no chance to reach the elite athlete class. That group is really hard to get into as the perceptions of what is good and bad is so rigidly in favor of the views of Mr. Thiry and his cohorts. The General Secretary, Roger Jarrett, is an exception. I believe that the competition in the USAKF is the best, followed by the AAU and later by the USANKF. And there is no Olympic team at this time but there are several outside the Olympic events held under the Olympic banner.

December 18, 2004 (from previous year but not posted) About the Dayton KMK --From: Hudson Jeffrey A Contr AFRL/HEC--- Nosa, Kwanmu! I’ve been very busy evaluating a NASA T-38 jet equipped with a new ejection seat — (the Air Force may want to upgrade to it as well for their T-38s.) So, its been impossible to leave work early on Fridays to come up for the Tai-ho Jitsu classes — which has been very disappointing. — Otherwise, things have been going good. I finally graduated last August… earning my Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences from Kent State. YES, I finally, REALLY finished this time. — I have a few new students in my class and it’s going well. For the higher kyu ranks I’ve been working Tsui Sho and the Bunkai to demonstrate “the karate mind”… the rhetorical question I ask is: “If you can do the kata alone, why is it so different when I attack with a sword?!” As you know, it’s good fun.

December 18, 2004 (from previous year but not posted) Subject: Is it better now? James Cottrell And the beat goes on...I appreciate your response to my inquiry that was somewhat in jest. I understand the adage "out of sight, out of mind." Now that I have become "addicted" to reading this stuff again, I would be negligent if I didn't bring up that one of the reasons we "lost" the NGB was that the other side had a program that would "guarantee" funding for the athletes. I must have missed something, but it seems like that is what a lot of the comments are about.—To this day, I feel the way it was run under your supervision, when we all (Thiry, Mirza, et. Al). were together represented the greatest hope for the sport and the athlete. The problem then as the problem is, apparently, now is that styles and instructors can't separate the art from the sport. Under your leadership, we, for the most part, did. That is what they crucified you for. It was a damn shame then and it is a damn shame now. The truism goes. "Those who refuse to learn from the past are destined to repeat it." Love to all.

December 21, 2004 -- End of year news -- Regarding the Direction of the PSDI —From Max Ciscell Jr. M.S. It is great to hear from you and about your effort to further Martial Arts worldwide. Frankly I could not think of a more capable individual and as you know you are only the individual I have considered my sensei other than Mr. Bonacci

December 21, 2004 -- End of year news -- The Police Survival and Defense Institute has launched into the world of Taiho Jitsu and has conducted the several national Civilian Defense Training Seminars and has issued many diplomas of qualification. It is to be noted that most major law-enforcement instructors and systems were at one time with the PSDI.

December 21, 2004 -- End of year news -- Our Chinese section, the Global Martial Arts, has taken a leap forward with the polishing of the Kwon Kong Cheung Kwan form by Kwanmukan technical experts. That form is a tremendous exercise in the Chinese tradition and usually is taught in small groups.

December 21, 2004 -- End of year news -- I fulfilled my obligation of US Coast Guard Aux, Division 08 Captain 09ER and qualified as a coxswain. I am now going to slow down and concentrate on the Kwanmukan. We certified many instructors under their great program and that was a great benefit to us but I think we should slow down now and spend time on our main subjects (HAH!).

December 18, 2004 -- End of year news Letter : Dr. Tom Brown <tommyrun@zoominternet.net> Thank you so much for the Holiday greeting and the update on all that you and the Kwanmukan have been doing and accomplished in 2004. I was present 2 years ago in the winter symposium (which I enjoyed immensely) and I was also an attendee in the last class you gave before leaving for Spain. I remarked to Sheriff. Overholt on the way home that I was quite sure that was the best martial arts class I have ever attended. He quickly replied that he assured me that it was the best class I have attended.— Thanks again for sharing your knowledge and experience with us and we look forward to many more years of continuing association with the Kwanmukan. I wish you the very best of health and happiness in the new year.

November 25-28, 2004 — JJIF World Championship --( report still coming)The USJJF sent a team to the November 2005 Ju-Jitsu International Federation World Championship in Spain. President Bethers was Chief of Delegation, Vice Pres. Anderson was the Chief of Mission and Shihan DeLeon was the Head Coach. Anderson was reappointed as Commissioner for the JJIF and Senior International Advisor. President Bethers was elected the Secretary for the newly formed Pan American Jujitsu Union.

October 21, 2004-- Trying to find a Champion From: Tanya McAllister <momatisme@hotmail.com> Hello, I have been searching the web trying to find the karate champions in 1998. My fiancée’s son lives in Texas and we were trying to find the facts on this because he won third place in 1998, We are not sure if it was state, national, or world, he was young like between 8 and 10 years old. He was adopted out as a baby so all we know is his first name is Gabrielle. If you could find any information on this and would please e-mail it back to me it would be very appreciated.

September 25, 2004 -- The passing of Teruo Hayashi from Roberto A. Alvelais Subject: A copy of Minobu Miki letter --- As you may have heard, Teruo Hayashi, Soke has passed away night before last. I've attached an email from Minobu Miki, Hanshi with information as to the arrangements for the wake and funeral. ——From Hanshi M MIKI to Dear JKO members: It has been a very sad day for me personally, I would like to send my deepest condolence to Soke's family from the bottom of my heart. I would like everyone to know Soke's funeral arrangement and will continue to inform you as I have received the information of Hayashi-Ha Shito Ryu Kai Soke: Teruo Hayashi's funeral arrangement. The Wake: September 26, 2004, from 7 PM (Japan Standard Time Zone) The Funeral: September 27, 2004, from 11 am>at the Manpuku-ji Temple, 14-23, 1-Chome, Minami-Horie, Nishi-ku, Osaka, Japan Zip Code, 550-0015 The Family rep. Nagashima, Hirotaka The funeral director, Murakami, Kazusada Please send flowers through this Osaka, Japan's flowers Shop; Tel. 06-6707-1142, Fax. 06-6707-0742. It may be complicate for English speaking people to order the flower, I will find out by calling this number in Japan and give you more details later how to order the flower. >Regards, Shito Ryu Hanshi: Minobu MIKI

August 25, 2004 Subject: Shorinjiryu Karatedo From: John Grima <john_grima@hotmail.com> Mr. Anderson, I am a practitioner and instructor of Shorinjiryu Karatedo descended from Kori Hisataka (Masayuki Hisataka’s father). I’m hoping you can clarify a response you gave on the USA KARATE chat page. You stated that you have a letter from Mr. Takagi (9th dan) JKA who says the style of Masayuki Hisataka is not recognized in Japan. – My question’s are what does that mean? Recognized by who? Are you referring to Masayuki’s style of Shorinjiryu Kenkokan Karatedo he inherited from his father or the World Koshiki Karate Federation he founded. I’m very proud of my Shorinjiryu background. I began studying martial arts and competing against other styles 24 years ago. I’ve trained with and am Certified by M. Hisataka in both Shorinjiryu Kenkokan Karatedo and the World Koshiki Karate Federation as well as other Shorinjiryu Masters. Most of my study was under Shunji Watanabe who was a direct disciple of Kori Hisataka and head of the Shorinjiryu Kenyukai Federation. In addition I have trained in Kodokan Judo under Kiiyoshi Shiina and have trained with or studied other styles including Kyokushinkai karate. — My point is I’ve studied martial arts and competed in tournaments for 25 years and I know the real thing when I see it. No one can tell me Shorinjiryu Karatedo descended from Kori Hisataka is not a true martial art. I respectfully ask you to clarify your response in regard to Japan’s recognition of Shorinjiryu and the Hisataka’s.

-----Dear Mr. Grima, Thanks for the note and you should be aware that I have the highest personal regard for Masayuki Hisataka and Shorinjiryu Karatedo. Mr. Takagi's letter stands on its own face and I, of course, cannot change it. I myself took it to mean that the Federation of All Japan Karate-do (FAAJKO then and later JKF), the governing body for the WUKO (now WKF) and the Olympic body for karate in Japan, did not include Masayuki Hisataka and his Shorinjiryu Karatedo. I have had Greatgrandmaster Masayuki Hisataka as a guest at the USAKF National Championships and he has been in my dojo. If you meet him again, please give him my regards.

June 26 2004 - Quite a fuss over the USJJF Nationals --For more information call us and we will talk. — The US Ju-jitsu Nationals in New Jersey at South Mountain Martial Arts, Madison, NJ and some controversy over it. -—The 2004 National Matches were accomplished despite very serious deficiencies in the facilities, which were not at all suitable for any major martial arts event. It all started out with a feeling of cooperation, which soon disintegrated because of personal comments to the Coaching Staff about the character of the USJJF President. The tournament was strong, but some of the competitors from grappling clubs felt put out (to say the least) by the JJIF Rules with which they had obviously little experience. Evidently, grapplers like extended grappling times and don’t like to get hit. JJIF International Referees Michael Piaser and Joe Santocildes and National Referee James Caldwell capably handled the referees. - Competition was tough and correct. Losers lost. Legendary Pat Byrnes, Chief of Coaching for the USAKF and teacher of many national and international champions was there and appeared well recovered from his knee operation. He brought the outstanding international karate champion Adam Older to the completion and he zoomed away with a gold medal. The matches were a bit rushed because we were informed that we had to be cut off before evening because of other events scheduled for the dojo — so the team selection meetings scheduled were postponed. On the downside, the competition was halted for a lengthy and boring, but technically OK) demonstration of Japanese sword which dragged on and on. The presenters were extremely rude to the Ju-jitsu leaders, and snubbed them as what I took to be a judgement that we were an inferior breed. This did not lead to an enhancement of good feeling.\ – In the mind of most of the competitors and leaders, the hosts were more than rude and were very poor sports. They did not know the rules and reacted unprofessionally when they lost the matches under those regulations. The JJIF is a huge organization and the rules and procedures are well tested and functional for a world sport the size of Ju-jitsu, so to complain and whine is not justified. If you don’t like the game, don’t play.

Note*** on the personal slurs made and be aware that Bruce Bethers has no brother. -— From: "Daryn DeRose" Date: Thu, 27 May 2004 Subject: Re: Larry Bethers - Oh, you're just going to love this... So, Larry [Bethers] questioned Bruce's [Bethers] motives and credentials? Well, if he's right, if his own pursuits are more legitimate than those of his brother, then he has inadvertently delivered the ULTIMATE putdown! At this rate, I fully expect that we will find that there is one remaining Bethers brother, named "Moe", who practices Vada. You might want to give Willy a call. Perhaps you can politely ask him if he knows about Larry's,... idiom? Original leter — Subject: Fwd: Larry Bethers - Oh, you're just going to love this...Date: Thursday, May 27, 2004 11:16 AM From: DaynD@aol.com To: <usakf@raex.com> This site has a BIO of Larry Bethers; perhaps Cahill made the mistaken assumption - but the statement is direct from him, and if there is a mistakwe, it is in the "geneology" I didn't make this up, and I am repeating "hearsay", directly from coach ... but hearsay Look, it hurt us. -Dayn

***Noted below is some of the controversy over the event (which next year will be hosted by the Hickey Center in Stow, Ohio) http://www.usjujitsu.net

***Our General Secretary Ernest G. McPeek, JD comments on the host for the championship. - Dear Bruce: I apologize for leaving without saying goodbye to you and George but “DD” had me so angry I didn’t want to run into him. I have never seen such a whiner and complainer. He is no gentleman and has absolutely no character whatsoever. He criticized each and every member of the USJJF and made loud rude comments that not only the members heard but the spectators as well. Who does he think he is? The parents of one of the participants sat next to Debby and me and kept asking why he was so obnoxious and hostile since he was hosting the event. This was their first USJJF tournament and they indicated probably their last. — I recommend we immediately strip him of his membership in the USJJF. He is not the caliber member we want. .…He is a disgrace to any martial art, especially fencing, because he has no honor. — He lied to everyone about how many people he could personally bring to the event and to the facilities. He provided no help whatsoever to the tournament except for a negative attitude. No amenities for participants or spectators. — It is our duty to contact every participant and apologize for the conditions they had to compete in and inform them that Dayn had lied to everyone until it was too late to change the venue. We also need to inform them that he in no way represents the USJJF and that we have expelled him from our membership. In addition we need to let them know that next year we will be in Ohio, and if Pat has a website with pictures of his School give them his address. ….we are the official NGB and in good standing. I would personally like to shove this up DD’s butt. What he is doing is slandering the USJJF, the officers and each member and we can demonstrate reputation and money damages in court if he cares to go there. At the very least he owes everyone who attended the tournament an apology for his hostility and rudeness. I believe fencing is referred to as a Gentlemen’s Sport, in his case he has made it an oxymoron. — I would like to commend all the officers, board of director members, officials, referees, participants at the table, and all competitors for not complaining, whining, or making negative remarks about the adverse conditions we had to perform under. Everyone, except the host, showed great character and sportsmanship, which the USJJF stands for. I am proud to be a member of the USJJF and proud of everyone who participated. — Bruce, please forward this to everyone on our mailing list. Especially DD as I do not have his email address. Every thing I wrote here I am willing to say to his face. He is rude, ungracious and a discredit to his martial art, whatever that is. - Hanshi Ernest G. McPeek, JD

***Comments from “DD” and other of the same mindset which came before the top letter.

\**DD: Gentlemen; this is the impression you have left over, and over again. I have fought AGAINST this since the time I took the job to hold the nationals - I didn’t even tell him about the irregular observance of contact rules, or the calls that were reversed.

****B: I was not able to attend yesterdays USJJF event (I filled in teaching. so he could bring.). I am sending you this email as a thought from me on the state of USJJF Rules. This in no way is aimed at you or the ref.’s who have to judge according to the rules they are given. —- The rise in popularity in Grappling , Sambo, BJJ, MMA,K1, Daido-Juku, etc. has given a shot in the arm as well as a wake up call to all of the BS propagators in the Martial Arts. This would seem like a golden opportunity for like minded people (people who believe the word MARTIAL in Martial Arts has meaning) to put together venues for Sport Combat that finally puts to rest the tag sparring bullshit as well as the embarrassment of high ranking Jujitsuka with no functional(!!!!) Martial ability. —- Even with the best efforts of judo/ Jujitsu/ Sambo/ Kickboxing person (You)this rule set is a JOKE. To take Nage Waza and Ne Waza, two PROVEN MARTIAL arts/sports and fold into them tag sparring a INEFFECTIVE MARTIAL sport; and then give equal scoring weight to real waza and tag is a joke. Is this a way to make point karate people feel good about their training in the face of common sense and empirical evidence, ie. MMA. There already is an event for people that need to feel good about themselves even tough they are not the best in their sports. It’s called the Special Olympics and the competitors there are a wonderful sight to behold for many reasons. —- Imagine if you would a Sharpshooting event that gave equal weight to actual shots on the target and angry stares down range (for those who aren’t very good shots). That way everybody feels good about the match except those marksmen who can actually shoot they will not compete in that venue again. You cannot polish a turd. Those rules smell like dung. - I know you have wanted to try and save this beast Dayn. Put a fork in it it’s done. Our guys would love to come play Sambo or Combat Sambo. Lets leave tag sparring to the guys (?) in the Paul Mitchell Gis. - Let the Europeans keep their Eurojitsu and we’ll even throw them Jerry Lewis and Michael Moore for good measure. Just my opinion. B;

****And more:- I couldn’t agree with you more! First though, let’s see if we can disenfranchise these utter creeps. The Europeans are livid with them as well. I get Edson [the “great” sword master] in the dojo for one of those special, rare times, and he has to witness THAT. I feel like I participated in a violent crime. Please convey my abject apologies and my - it’s more than utter- embarrassment that I could cause a well liked and honored guest to be treated in that way. All I can say is that I thought they’d be under par, but I forgot that when point Karate men know that about themselves, they CHEAT. If you can please help Edson to send his comments to the European governance. This is a joke. Especially when you go to the USJJF Website and see how BIG they try to make it seem - over half the people AT the tournament were victims - the other half were the Kwanmukan -core membership - 15 people? That’s the entirety of the active USJJF! Please, please forgive me!

****And other problems: Apology accepted for bad behavior. —Mr. Anderson, I would like to take this opportunity to look out for the best interest of my student as to respect my seniors and their decisions. During the USJJF nationals, a lot of complications occurred which caused a spark which included the tensions that were raised by Dayn DeRose the host. I did not mean to take my frustration out on you as you were there to assist the situation at hand and to help what you could to making the tournament run smooth as an advisor to the board. Although I learned from my actions, I feel that this will allow for me to become a better person. Please, understand as I was looking out for the best interest of my student, as a father would do to his son or daughter. Again, I fully regret what I said towards you and my actions were completely unacceptable. I hope this will allow for our relationship to become better then it was during the nationals. I do not regret meeting you in person as you have done so much for our community and students of this country. I can only say to continue to the progress. I look forward to meeting you sometime in the future and with better admiration. Respectfully, (Name withheld for obvious reasons)

Sept 21, 2004 -- From: Sensei Hudson Jeffrey A Contr AFRL/HEPA -- Nosa, I thought you would want to know that my fencing instructor, Ray Bautista, Melanie's Father, died suddenly this past Sunday. He was only 45. His online obit details are at this site. http://www.legacy.com/dayton/LegacySubPage2.asp?Page=LifeStory&PersonId=263077 <http://www.legacy.com/dayton/LegacySubPage2.asp?Page=LifeStory&amp;PersonId=2630778> I will miss him. Kwan mu.

June 20, 2004 --Subject: John Shaver has died --from Richard Poage --We were sadden to hear from Joe Dupaquier that John Shaver died early this morning. He was in Peoria at Master Koeppel's event with Chris Otwell and Mrs. Shaver. His help and support will be greatly missed in the martial arts community.

April 8, 2004 -- Peter Urban has died - We lost yet another one of the truly greats -- GM Peter Urban passed away last night. As one of his student remarked, "Yes he was controversial but at his own choosing. Yes he was talented -- ask the Yamaguchi brothers. Yes he was a great teacher ask his students. --* Yes he was a great student ask his Sensei's who have passed away as well. Yes he was my friend and a teacher ... He certainly was one of first generation Americans and one of first to give a whole pile of 10th Dans at one shot.

March 20, 2004 -- North Carolina Anderson Seminar hosted by Shihan Carl Wilcox — Some letters from the event: Dr. Baumgarten and I—as well as everyone else present—very much enjoyed our dinner with you last Saturday. Given the wide-ranging and most interesting nature of our conversation—and the several references to Campbell’s ideas—and knowing that you are a voracious reader, I thought I would take the liberty of sending you a slender book by Karl Kerenyi entitled Hermes: Guide of Souls. It may take me a few days to secure a copy, but when I do I’ll send it to you. Thank you again for the seminar too. Sincerely, Dr. Mark Holland dwell family and Wilcox HOF and pictures And Dear Nosa, One of the Black Belts in our school said, “I have attended many seminars in my life, but this was the best one day seminar I have ever attended - the information, delivery, focus, concentration to detail, interaction with students -was just astounding! So thank you so much for coming to Asheville. It was truly an honor to have you he re. The energy in our classes is sky high this week due to your visit! Osu, SenseiHaywood Hillier

February 21, 2004 Subject: New KHF President OFFICIAL PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT: From: Richard Hackworth [mailto:drhackworth@earthlink.net] February 20th 2004. Seoul, South Korea. Hapkido Grand Master Park, Kum Shil has been formally appointed and elected as the President of the newly organized Republic of Korea Hapkido Federation. The Chief of Presidential Security, Han Myung Sun, nominated Dr. Richard Hackworth of the United States for the position of International Director. This nomination was unanomously approved by the KHF board of directors and President Park, Kum Shil made the formal announcement today. Master Michael Barron of Norwich, England was elected as the United Kingdom Representative of the KHF and will host the first UK Hapkido Conference in Norwich, England, June 18-20, 2004. This will be the first international level Hapkido conference held in England. The conference will cover Hapkido techniques and theory. The first European Dan rank promotion grading will be conducted for the Republic of Korea Hapkido Federation by the international panel of Hapkido masters in attendance. Participants from Europe and the USA are already confirmed for attendance at this historic event.

January 8, 2004 – Subject: Hi.. From: Grand Chancellor <grandchancellor@saintlazarus.co.uk> Dear George, How nice of you to reply so quickly...I realise that I did not attend the 'First National Police - Sheriffs Seminar 1976' in fact I attended the 'Ninth International Police Training Seminar 1983'. As you can see from our website www.saintlazarus.co.uk <http://www.saintlazarus.co.uk> The Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem is a confraternity of Hospitallers that specialise in helping with Hospices. We have Grand Priories in England, Wales, Isle of Man and Channel Islands; in Scotland; in Southern Africa and shortly there will be a Grand Priory of the Mediterranean. This organisation is not Masonic and is open to lady members. It is based on an Order of Chivalry which was established at the time of the crusades, and has been continued, in one form or another, since that time. There is a full history on the website if you are interested in such things. -----I did not realise, when we last met, that we were both masons. As you may know, masonry in the UK is run on very different lines, however, I too am a 32nd degree mason in the Ancient and Accepted Rite, I am also a Grand Officer in the Craft, the Mark and Royal Mariners, the Knights Templar, the Red Cross of Constantine, the Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests, the Holy Royal Arch, the Royal Order of Scotland, the Royal and Select Masters etc etc...as you can see I have been quite busy on the Masonic front since I first became a mason in Gibraltar 1967.--------These days I spend much less time on masonry as I am fully occupied with the Order of Saint Lazarus.– My days in martial arts came to a close some 15 years ago, although I am asked, from time to time, to do a 'master class' in the techniques of 'Zen Shin Do Kenpo Jutsu' which is a style I formed by combining techniques from both Shorinji Kempo and Jiu Jitsu. – I did enjoy the time that I came over to visit you in Akron and if you ever decide to come over here for a holiday please make sure that you contact me. I seem to remember one of your students called 'Terri' who very kindly took me to a 'Mexican Restaurant'....do you remember her?? Anyway George, its good to be in contact again....look after yourself and drop me an e-mail when you have the time. Best regards to one and all, John – Baron von Hof

September 22, 2003 Thank you for the presentation for the meeting of Women Pilots Assn. -- From: Hilary Peterson - Lake Erie 99s -Berea, Ohio --- Colonel Anderson, Thank you for the presentation you made to the 99s sectional meeting on Saturday. I hope I never have to use the self-protection techniques you talked about, but I have a few friends who have been raped and robbed and so naturally want to be able to have a fighting chance if I should find myself in a bad situation. I would be interested in learning more about any classes you offer for civilians.-- I was also curious if you know someone named Bernie Braverman. I think he's in his 80's now but I understand he holds a very high-degree black belt.

7/15/04 Regarding the shift from USTU to AAU TKD. This comment just reached us: All, This week I received 2004 applications from the USTU. Unless someone can convince me otherwise - “I will be joining the USTU again this year.”

Why? I do not see anything (at this time) in the AAU program for my students. My students seek competition and still feel the competition is with USTU sponsored tournaments. BTW, there are no 2004 AAU tournaments scheduled in Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky and West Virginia, except state championships or coaching seminars. Here are questions I asked myself about the possibility of an AAU migration: I now ask these same questions to those supporting the “AAU Migration Rush”:

1) Won’t the AAU need more sponsored tournaments if they expect to grow in membership? What is their approach?

2) Where are AAU sponsored tournaments? I cannot find them.

3) If the AAU is so far behind in local events then how do they expect to attract competitors at a national event? The USTU junior nationals attracted over 5500 competitors last year? They may be down in numbers this upcoming year; however, I feel they will attract more than the AAU. Numbers count!

4) AAU does not honor USTU membership or coaching cards and wants us to recertify through them as coaches, to include a State coaching certificate?

Why? Apparently, my USTU (Olympic Sparring) Coaching Card carries no power with the AAU. The AAU did very little “Olympic Sparring Competition” until this opportunity came along. In My Opinion: The AAU is at the bottom when it comes to state and local sponsored “Olympic Style” events. Why is this, maybe they were too involved in the point sparring stuff for too long? Most of us quit that “One Punch Kill Nonsense” 20 plus years ago. I will say that “Point Sparring” appears to be a “SAFE” way to do TKD but it does not work on the streets J. BTW, point sparring reminds me so much of Fencing. Why would we want our students to go backwards in competition level by doing AAU events (none locally available), which has put very little into Olympic Style Sparring? Olympic Style competition is USTU’s bread and butter and at this time I feel sticking with the USTU is my clubs best bet. Again, I am USTU bound based on what I see with the AAU. Whether the USTU is the NGB or not is not an interest of mine or my club. My club uses the USTU for it’s quality events ONLY; not for promotions or other novelties. I admit their Junior event last year was pretty badly organized, but what’s new? Sorry if this mail offends anyone but I wanted to put my thoughts on the USTU verses AAU out to the crowd.Am I off base - comments welcome. Name not published

 Voices from the past: Dear Mr. Anderson,  My name is Jeff Bedard. I live in St. Louis, Missouri. I am a friend of Doug Dennis’ from Springfield, Illinois. You may not remember me, but I remember you fondly. In 1996 or so we were traveling companions on a plane bound for Greece. Your remarks and the conversation we had left an indelible mark on me as a young martial artist. I just wanted to take this moment and say thank you for your kindness, and personal insights.     I am still training and learning. I run a small club in St. Louis. I see Doug Dennis regularly. He's been a great sempai for me. You made a lasting, positive impression on me.  Best regards.

6/5/04 News from the US Ju-Jitsu Federation Camp -- by GEA - The US Team and USJJF Coaches’ Training Session held at the Hickey Center in Stow, Ohio on June 5-6 was the best yet. Attendance was curtailed because of the coming National Championships in New Jersey and the obvious travel difficulties but overall was great; five states were represented: Ohio, New York, Nebraska, D.C. and Wisconsin. The fighters looked really sharp, especially current US Team member Chad White and the DUO team from Ernest McPeek’s dojo in Buffalo was great.  Pat Hickey, chair of the Coaches’ Education Committee presented a great program, which will grow as a most important facet of our national operations. Michael Piaser, chair of the Referees Committee, brought an up-to-date course on the rules.  In the meeting it was decided to re-schedule the National Meeting to Akron in August. The Referee Committee now is: Michael Piaser- chair, Jim Caldwell – vice chair, Joe Santocildes – secretary. Ben DeLeon was reconfirmed as coach for the World Championships in Spain. The USJJF insurance program has been made optional and the Ranking and Certification Committee of the Central Technical has been strengthened. It was also decided to further strengthen the USJJF by the inclusion of a Judo certification program. Standards will follow Kodokan regulations excepting the completion requirements (these are covered by the jujitsu standards) and will concentrate on those USJJF members who have an interest in the study traditional judo. It is stressed that we have no plans for instigation of judo competition; we will leave that in charge of the National Governing Body for that sport. T. R. McClanahan will chair the Judo Section of the Central Technical Committee. He is a widely known and respected judoka – one of the founders of the USJA.

5/30/04 - Kwanmukan Sensei Jeff Hudson Qualifies in Fencing - This is just a quick note to tell you that I did qualify for Division 1A in both Epee and Foil for the Fencing National Championships to be held in Charlotte, NC in July. This means I get to fence with the “big dogs”. I’ll also fence veteran’s (40 -49 year olds) and a few other categories. ----Also, Ray Bautista (my fencing instructor) has given me the opportunity to teach karate in his new salle in Beavercreek (near Wright Patt). I’ve decided to take him up on it. So, what should I name this Kwanmukan site? Should it just be an extension of the Glendale CMA, or should it have its own name, like Beavercreek CMA? Kwan Mu! Mr. Hudson is a student of George Anderson and is a Ph.D. in Antropology working as Biomedical Scientist at ATS (Advanced Technology Solutions), a General Dynamics Company United States Air Force CARD LAB Cockpit Accommodation Facility (WPAFB/HEPA)

We are getting ready for the USAKF Nationals at the University of Akron (Details on the Schedule Page). We plan on having a Hall-of-Fame dinner and making it a great party of the troops, last year it was sold out. Besides hosting traditional karate competition we will have forms division for Korean, Okinawan, and Chinese styles, just like we used to do. The Kobudo is, of course, part of the operations, but is also a separate championship under the International Kobudokan. Thus, besides karate, we also award a National Champion in Kobudo. More about this later

5/22/04 - The CMA hosts an important PSDI meeting dealing with Homeland Security and PSDI Tai-ho Jitsu certifications. The meeting was hosted by Joe Bonacci, Joe Gabriel, and Larry Overholt, all well know in their field and included many really important people.

The PSDI (Police Survival & Defense Institute) (Police Self-Defense Institute) was established many ago years under the historic United States Karate Association. Many senior law-enforcement instructors in the US and abroad were trained and certified under the PSDI. Personnel from the Anti-Terrorists Units, Secret Service, FBI, CID, Interpol, Air Marshals, active police officers, sheriffs departments, State Departments – state and nations, and many other agencies that we cannot name because of restrictions or protocol, trained under the PSDI.  Through the years, training and basic operations have continued, but the PSDI really did not pursue any special activities for some time because it had reached its national goal in most states of the Union -- the formation of government Peace Officer Training Councils with sound standard operation procedures.   After the 911 tragedies, the PSDI has moved to assist security efforts, to provide correct and necessary training for the general public and to once again comment on and advise various agencies on sound operational techniques.

We have some of the best and most experienced instructors in the world on our staff and continuing to be directly involved in the formation of a sound and simple technical structure for the instruction of personnel. We are focusing on a broad range of groups such as service companies, manufacturing concerns, educational institutions, social service agencies and to individuals (which includes children), young adults, families, professionals, business employees, executives, and law enforcement/military.  In our civilian training we offer quality self-protection, incident control and survival training -- concentrating on prevention, awareness, and security in the context of the home, workplace, and during travel. We present reliable skills and teach how to respond to unstable situations. Our students learn how to use common ordinary everyday items as weapons and how to apply self-defense techniques that can be easily learned and to execute under stress..  The PSDI has a special training program specifically designed for needs of law-enforcement and related governments agencies. Our Taiho-Jutsu programs are tactical systems that provide comprehensive abilities that do not conflict with standard departmental regulations. --- The PSDI has been authorized by the Combined Central Technical Committees of the National Federations supporting the PSDI:

5/1/04 - Edged weapons must be coming back because Pat Hickey’s seminar featuring Joe Marth was really well supported with participants from several states. It reminds us that almost all the old timers were quite practiced in knife techniques. Perhaps liability issues put this on the back burner.

4/25/04 - Jeff Ellis hosted his annual North Coast Karate Championships in Medina HS. This event has grown to one of the largest in this part of the country. As you probably recall, Shihan Ellis is the director of Travel for the USAKF, has traveled widely as a USA Head Coach and Chief of Mission, and is the director or the USAKF Junior Program. Besides all this, he finds time to practice.

4/2/04 - Hanshi Anderson lectured on International Sports Management at Mount Union College in Alliance Ohio, as he has done in the past. The program director is Dr. Thoma, who has moved the program at Mount Union College to national recognition. When I was there he had the students working on preparing and presenting a simulated national sport bid for various cities. Dr. Thoma’s wife is from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia where the 1994 WUKO Championship was held. His background includes some time as an associate with the USOC Sports Academy. He has a first class mind and great experience. Perhaps we will consult him further in the future.

From: Jay Sandlin <Jitsu@woh.rr.com> I am trying to find information on an organization from the 1960's I believe. Organization is called the Ketsugo Jitsu Academy Of Self Defense (K.J.A.S.D.). If you have ever heard of this could you please send me any information that I could use to get in contact?

3/11/04  Shihan Ed Kuras from Macomb, IL came to Akron with two students for intensive training in Jujitsu and grading of his students to Shodan. Ed is really tough and we hope he becomes active in the USJJF.

2/28/04 - Traveled to Macomb, IL for a seminar for the Western Illinois Shotokan, held at Shihan Ed Kuras’ dojo.  Shihan James Caldwell from Nebraska and Shihan Ben DeLeon from Wisconsin also attended and we had a fine time. Taught the Wado Chinto kata, certain ancient Chinese martial arts drills, some Kwan-bup techniques and reviewed special Tai-ho Jitsu methods.

2/21/01 -New KHF President -- From: Richard Hackworth [mailto:drhackworth@earthlink.net] ---OFFICIAL PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT: February 20th 2004. Seoul, South Korea. Hapkido Grand Master Park, Kum Shil has been formally appointed and elected as the President of the newly organized Republic of Korea Hapkido ---Federation. The Chief of Presidential Security, Han Myung Sun, nominated Dr. Richard Hackworth of the United States for the position of International Director. This nomination was unanomously approved by the KHF board of directors and President Park, Kum Shil made the formal announcement today. Master Michael Barron of Norwich, England was elected as the United Kingdom Representative of the KHF and will host the first UK Hapkido Conference in Norwich, England, June 18-20, 2004. This will be the first international level Hapkido conference held in England. The conference will cover Hapkido techniques and theory. The first European Dan rank promotion grading will be conducted for the Republic of Korea Hapkido Federation by the international panel of Hapkido masters in attendance. Participants from Europe and the USA are already confirmed for attendance at this historic event.

2/21/01 - Roger Jarrett's Tournament in WV. We went to St. Albens, West Virginia to Shihan Roger Jarrett’s tournament and had a great time. Tokey Hill was there and did a fine seminar on competition methods. Tokey and I about the state of affairs in the USA and the possibilities not being explored. Lokk for great things in the future from Tokey and Roger. They are real leaders in this country and we should give them support. ---- Shihan Jarrett is quite accomplished in Aikido and really is the major power operating in West Virginia. I saw Brent Bias again, the former USAKF WV State Chairman and a USAKF Team member and an assistant to me when I was the World Referee Council Chairman at the 1988 World Championship in Cairo. He is still running and is in great shape. He is a devoted student of Don Madden, the former great USAKF Head Coach.

2/20/04 - Regarding World Taekwondo -- Of course you have all heard this by now but it deserves mention. We have received several calls from Korea about the problem there. It seems that the dan grading fees and their handling was a big problem and if some people got rich they will pay the piper. Lots of resignations and tears will be forthcoming. Also, we got lots of comments on the methods of grading and the restrictions (blackballing is a better word) on the issuing of such credential. Ethics and other affiliations played a way-to-big part in their determination. -------- Meanwhile in the USA (Denver-AP) — Two executives of the U-S Taekwondo Union are stepping down. President Sang Lee says he’ll retire April 30th, and treasurer Ki Hong Kim has resigned. Sang Lee says he’ll concentrate on his duties as vice president of the World Taekwondo Federation, the sport’s international governing body. ---- The U-S Olympic Committee had planned to meet Tuesday in Chicago to discuss the future of the taekwondo organization’s Olympic charter. The group has been under scrutiny since the U-S-O-C found financial and managerial irregularities last year.

1/20/04 - 2004 Winter Symposium and US Jujitsu Federation Winter Camp. PDF Program (Large) was an outstand success and was a sold-out affair with over three hundred in attendance. Representation was international with Shihan Janak Subedi - Nepal Kwanmukan, Dr. Nader Sherif - Egypt - President African Karate Union, and Shihan Michael Osho from Ghana. There was a stronlgly attended meeting of the powerful PSDI Police Survival and Defense Institute during which Dr. Sherif proposed and it was decided to plan a major training seminar in July 2005 in Casablanka, Morocco. Janek Subedi presented documents indicating Nepalese Goverment support for a January 2005 .International Tournament to be held in Katmandu, Nepal by the Nepal Kwanmukan Association. They are anticipating over 25 official national teams - last year they had 18 national teams and the event was sanctioned by the World Karate Confederation, president Fritz Wendland. Charles Stepan of Taekwondo Times gave us a nice article with pictures about the event.

1/5/04 - Remembering trip to Greece 93 from  Jeff Bedard   St. Louis, Missouri -- I am a friend of Doug Dennis’ from Springfield, Illinois. You may not remember me, but I remember you fondly. In 1993 or so we were traveling companions on a plane bound for Greece. Your remarks and the conversation we had left an indelible mark on me as a young martial artist. I just wanted to take this moment and say thank you for your kindness, and personal insights.  I am still training and learning. I run a small club in St. Louis. I see Doug Dennis regularly.  He's been a great sempai for me.    You made a lasting, positive impression on me.  Best regards  Jeff Bedard   St. Louis, Missouri

Check the KMK Newsletter for other USAKF/Kwanmukan news.