December 20, 1997 -- looking for -- from Bubblegum, ninja17@ibm.net--If there is a certain Hiroshi Allen in there, please pass this message to him. If there's no one by that name, just delete the whole thing. Thank you very much. Mr. Hiroshi Allen (I don't know the right spelling)

Hi. I'm Myla Gail, the kid from Phils. (6th karate world cup). Remember the girl who asked for your sign and got your picture? (and wished you luck, and then you won?) Anyway, that was me. Look, we have this project in PE, that goes like, we interview athletes on a certain sport, residing in a different country. Is it okay if I interview you? I'll E-mail you the questions, and E-mail me back the answers? Just write back if it's okay. That's all. I wish you luck on your next fights. Maybe by then you could prove to the world what you've got is more than what they've got. CIAO!!! MYLA

December 20, 1997 -- looking for -- I'm wonder if anybody know who Barbara Niggel is and where I can locate her. I would appreciate very much. We have a request from --- KHeru72497@aol.com.

December 13, 1997 -- Pretty Weanie!!! teram incentive program -- from a USNKF member who wants to remain anonymous

I just got a note about the 'NKF's " Athlete Incentive Program." It lists all of the athletes who have received "money and savings bonds." I don't imagine that a savings bond will help the athlete very much in the immediate future to defray the costs of traveling to a WKF event. It's a pretty passive aggressive way to say that you gave money and still only spend a fraction of what you said that you gave. Pretty Weanie!!!

December 13, 1997 ---We have now set a service page for the World Karate Confederation

December 10, 1997---Deaths of famous persons.

Hanshi Shimpo Matayoshi, founder of The All Okinawa Kobu-Do Association, died in Naha, Okinawa September 1997. Hanshi Shoshin Nagamine, founder of Matsubayashi Sho Rin Ryu Karate-Do, died Sunday 2 November 1997.

Quote of the day--"Your manuscript is both good and original," Samuel Johnson told a would-be writer, "but the part that is good is not original, and the part that is original is not good."

December 1, 1997--Winter National in Tucson - the information is now posted.

November 12, 1997 -- Jeffrey A. Hudson, --KMK Dayton (National Class Fencer) JAK_HUDSON@compuserve.com

Nosa, I just got back from San Antonio. We were doing some test flights on the T-1 trainer to determine how short a student pilot could be and still be safe enough to fly it. On this one I actually got to fly in the jet to collect the data. What a blast! The T-1 is very similar to a traditional twin Lear Jet except this has more power.

This week my wife is on a business trip to Amsterdam so I decided to capitalize on the situation. I took vacation and I'm finishing my dissertation. I take my son to the sitter for the day so I don't have any distractions. Because of this I'll be working through the weekend and am unable to come up for the Promotional.

However, next Friday, 21 NOV, Reverend Jones and some of the sons are coming down to help me run my first promotional down here for my five young students. Part of their visit will be to share with me the current drills and forms that you have been teaching. If you have any paper work or instructions for me please e-mail or have the Jones's bring them down. With all Respect, Jeff Hudson

December 1, 1997 Notes on the history of Korean Karate and Grandmaster Yun Byung-in

We find interesting notes on the Grandmaster Yun Byung-in posted on the site of Grandmaster Kim Pyung-soo, founder of the ChaYon-Ryu Martial Arts System. Chayon-Ryu at http://www.kimsookarate.com/pages/yoon.html

Kim Soo says that Yun Byung-in was connected to Kanken Toyama, A student of Yasutsune "Anko" Itosu, Kanryo Higashionna, and Chosin Chibana. Major James Caldwell <International Okinawan Kobudo Fed./Shin Ryu Kan - Soryu> confirms that Yun Byung-in is on the Shihan list of the Shudokan that he received from his teacher in Japan. It is also acknowledged that a fifth dan was required to be on the list. We also understand that Kanken Toyama was deeply interested in the Chinese Ch'uan Fa and practiced the same with Yun Byung-in who had arrived from Manchuria.

Yun Byung-in (Yunmookwan) taught Kwonbop (Ch'uan Fa) at the Seoul YMCA. The major students were: Lee Nam-suk (Kong Soo Do)- founder of Changmookwan (1946), Park Chull-hee (Kwonbop)- founder of Kangdukwon (1956), Hong Jong-pyo (Kwonbop), founder of Hungmookwan(1966).

Grandmaster Kim Pyung-soo, founder of the ChaYon-Ryu Martial Arts studied with Lee Nam-suk, Park Chull-hee, and Hon Jon-pyo, starting as a young child.

Kim Soo was a senior to Il Joo Kim, the noted Taesoodo instructor in Akron , and we can remember that before we could wear the new TAI KWAN DO patches, we had to send a copy to Master Kim Soo. Mr. I. J. Kim is now with the Song Moo Kwan, having joined with Byung Jick Ro about 1970.

Hanshi George Anderson also shares the same line (junior to Kim Soo), holding 9th dan with Lee Nam-suk, Park Chull-hee, Anderson's direct teacher, and 7th dan with Hong Jonj-pyo. Anderson also trained with Il Joo Kim and received his 3rd dan in the Song Moo Kwan from the hand of Master Ro.September 17, 1997 -- Comments on Stupiddity - karate's lust for the Olympics -- the below quotes really follow the concept that the punishment must fit the crime. Sort of like the late Mike Ryoko, quoting a lady from Columbus, Ohio in the Cleveland Plain Dealer---"..rich, not gaudy like a cat pawing cabbage." My sentiments exactly -Show me a cat pawing cabbage and I'll show you a cabbage being pawed by a cat.

Pertinent quotes from --UNDERSTANDING STUPIDITY by James F. Welles, Ph.D., Orient, NY, Sixth Printing May 1995. Mount Pleasant Press. P. O. Box 212, Orient, NY 11957-0212

......The other approach is to answer, "Stupidity is the learned corruption of learning." As such, it is a normal, dysfunctional psychic phenomenon which is caused when a schema formed by linguistic biases and social norms acts via the neurotic paradox to establish a positive feedback system which carries behavior to maladaptive excesses....Let us note that stupidity is generally produced by the interdisruption of two commonplace mental faculties-a self-deceptive inability to gather and process information accurately and a neurotic inability to match behavior to environmental contingencies. Further, it has epistemological, social and moral dimensions.

In an epistemological context, stupidity is the failure to gather and use information efficiently. Traditionally, self-deception has been considered only in terms of the use or abuse of information present within a cognitive system-that is, a person would have to "Know" something in order to deceive himself about it. However, we must acknowledge it is also self-deceptive (i.e., misleading) and usually stupid for one to refuse to gather new, relevant information about matters of importance.

Thus, when considering stupidity in relation to knowledge and data processing, it is imperative to distinguish between the related phenomena of "Agnosticism" and "Ignorance." Both words may be used to indicate the condition of "Not knowing," but they describe different ways of maintaining that condition. Pure, innocent agnosticism is not really stupid, in that it does not indicate an inability or unwillingness to learn. Agnosticism is the cognitive state when (unavailable) to an individual or not present in the environment in a from discernible to the sensory apparatus of the living system (person, group, etc.).

pp 9 To put it the other way, stupid behavior becomes increasingly common as a schema blocks the perception of impinging stimuli and an understanding of issues and/or creates substitute stimuli and idiotic ideas through fantasies.

The basic problem with the rational/intellectual model of the brain as a computer is that of the self-generation of bugs. Computers invariably have bugs, but the brain has built-in emotional biases which fade in and out depending on the nature of the "Input." The appropriate computer model in this vein would be an electronically unstable machine with a defective program which functions to keep the hard drive steady by preventing major alterations of its programs. In human terms, correcting a program (i.e., changing one's mind) is necessarily emotionally involving and therefore done only reluctantly. In computer terms, any program is inherently maladaptive because of its necessary and inevitable impact on perception (i.e., the process of data input).

When pondering the passing of many great human institutions down through the ages, one must conclude that most failed to adapt to changing conditions. What is not so obvious is that the new conditions were often produced by the institutions themselves. Turnover of organizations is inherent in the human conditions in that a schema tends to limit values to those appropriate to the circumstances present when it developed. These values sustain the status quo by preventing recognition of problems create.

September 15, 1997 --For you budding businessmen.--Don't you dare ask that question!

Taken from the article "LAW & GOVERNMENT by John Ettorre". Small Business News, Akron, Ohio Sept 1997

Don't you dare ask that question!

Despite a glut of management advice, too many private employers suffer from an appalling ignorance of the land mines of employment law....Surely just about every employer knows the types of questions to ask job applicants that will land them on the wrong side of a court summons, right?

Apparently not.

...Cleveland law firm Kahn, Kleinman, Yanowitz &Arson ... floated five questions that an employer might reasonably want to ask a job applicant

• Have you ever filed a workers" compensation claim?
• Do you have any physical problems or injuries?
• How many days were you sick last year?
• Are you currently taking any medications?
• Have you ever been treated for drug abuse?

... All of these questions are patently illegal under the Americans with Disabilities Act, the infamous federal legislation which shook corporate America's confidence under then President George Bush. Each of these Hit-challenged companies could easily have been hauled into court and competed to fork over some long green to the offended applicants. There but for the grace of God went their balance sheets.

September 3 1997 -- comments 23rd USAKF National Championships Bob Boggs - Kansas

Today marks one month since the 23rd USAKF National Championships were held in Akron, Ohio. My apology for just getting around in expressing my Congratulations in promoting, once again, a truly "five star event"!

The arduous and successful work of Tom Lapuppet, Mike Bukala, Jim Caldwell, Pat Hickey, and yourself, as well as those of the behind the scenes personnel such as Carol Hofer and John Anderson, to name a few, reminds us all that the USAKF is not only the premier organization in the United States, but also the organization that is continually brought up as the one with the standards of excellence which all pursue.

Your personal warmth, Hanshi Anderson, to all those around you, competitors, spectators, and officials alike, brings a sincere caring for the athletes well being and development. You have certainly led by example!

In my 30+ years in Martial Arts, I have been blessed to have accomplished so much. Beginning my training in the mid-60's on Okinawa under Sensei Seiyu Oyata, and continuing later in the early 70's under Sensei Jim Harrison, I became accustomed of being in the forefront among the world's most respected leaders and practitioners. Hanshi Anderson, your respect as a leader and practitioner is also, undoubtedly, of the utmost, and I am honored and proud to call you not only one of my mentor's of the 90's, but also a friend. Thank you for trusting me, giving me responsibilities, sharing your wealth of knowledge, and most of all, never failing to lay the "welcome mat" outside your home.

Your vote, along with Mr. Lapuppet's and Mr. Hickey's, which enabled my induction into the '97 USAKF Hall of Fame, reflects the leadership I have had over the past 30+ years. First of all, my thanks! With this award goes accountability. Thank you again for your trust. Finally, let's move on. Do as Sir Wallace of Scotland would do: give 'em a smile . . . give 'em a cheer . . . charge! Respectfully, Bob

August 9, 1997 -- Note on $$$$ in the arts

To whom this may concern. I was reading an article on the topic of values in the Karate system and I believe it holds true to most forms taught in the U.S. The topic is ranking of the students. I personally think that a lot of schools promote on the basis of "get em in , get em out" , which is all about MONEY$$$$$$$, or its a quota thing . Where is the true nature of the art to be found and taught when everything is for a capital gain. I am very low on the pole when it comes to experience, but stand high when it comes to true value. THANK YOU, MIKE

Dear Mike,

Your point is interesting but other considerations enter into the life of martial arts teacher.

1. It is vital that the head of style travel and study to increase the likelihood that the student is learning at the highest level and in the most correct manner possible.

2. It is vital that the head of style be able to support a family and eat. It should be noted that part time is not enough for the martial arts master, the master must also pursue the development of the personal family and establishment of the proper communications and educational systems. At least my students are delighted that I can afford to work for them and develop our organization-- and they see to it that I have the funds to do just that.

3. It is true that many so called masters deliver something less than the best and indeed are not blessed with brain or brawn-- and it is true that many with brawn are not swift in the brain --and in the same manner some who are really sharp are poor in skill. To make an analogy, all good preachers are not holy and not all holy person can preach.

4. The ranking system was set up as an aid to orderly and regular visualization of progress and does indeed aid in the grouping of students for teaching. It contains certain costs as all things in our society do and at time is the only source of income for many instructors. Why be so cheap? The promotions cost less than the cinema these days. Some instructors have the student prepay for examinations - just like the Universities and Colleges of today. They don't teach exam you for free, you just think they do.

5. For true value, what is better that getting the Tools, Methods, and Philosophy for excellence?

August 9, 1997 -- re Olympics--Honor Quail Hughes on the USAKF Seikukan Karate-Do

Dear Mr. Anderson, Good to hear from you! It's been many years since our first encounter in which I walked up to you (not knowing your background at all), and asked you to open our Nationals with a prayer. I thank you for the attention that you showed to me and my request then, and I thank you now, for your promptness in sending the E-mail requested. I had resigned myself to either making a trip to your office before the Nationals or to see you at the Nationals; however, I realized that either may cause you some time difficulty. I am glad that this opportunity has presented itself.

As you know, I am a TEACHER. I have been degreed in Health and Physical Education since 1969. I grew up in Richmond, Virginia and I did not have affluent parents. My interest and my love as a child was gymnastics and my dream, like so many children was to go to the Olympics. Because of finances, my parents could not afford to send me to California to try out for the Southern Calif. Acrobatic Team(the number 1 team in the U.S. at the time). There are some things that we are given to know for a certainty and were there a way, I could have made that team. I turned my talents to teaching, coaching and judging. When I began to practice Karate 20 years ago, I saw that door once again either for myself or for my students.

When AAU became USAKF I was on the bandwagon because the promises and the hopes of myself and every other competitor that ever step foot into a ring to compete is the dream of the Olympics and I saw the USAKF as the pathway to make that happen either for myself or my students. Please advise me of our position at this time. I entered my students in AAU this year because I wanted to see Mirza whom I haven't seen in 15 years and my questions to him were the same. However, what I heard was that sanctions will be lost as of the fall this year.

Tell me who to write. Give me the names and addresses of the Olympic Committee's members so that I can mobilize my kids and as many others as possible to write to them so that those possibilities remain open for all of our children who have put in so many hours and want and deserve that chance. If the door is closed, it will take at least 3 Olympiads to reorganize, if accepted again. By that time the children that I now teach will be either too old, teachers themselves or burnt out on so called "competitor fun" and will not have the chances that they have told me that they want. If you have any counsel, please pass it on. If it is possible to change some thinking on the Olympic Committed, I am willing to try. Again, being a TEACHER, I like to open doors of opportunity for all children and I definitely do not like to see them shut. Please help me with history and homework. Again, many thanks for your time and attention. Sincerely--Honor Quail Hughes, Seikukan Karate-Do

******Our reply,

Dear Honor, There is no one to write or talk to. My friends in Europe, many who are on the IOC Executive, say the entire thing is inside their IOC Executive Committee and it will do what it pleases and will not accept complaints, pleas or advice from anyone of the 50 million individual members of the WKF.

There was a push to remove karate and I was asked to play a part but I want no part of it. We worked to hard to get the sport recognized and I am working to see that it stays in.

I do not believe that karate will be put out in September. That, and similar such opinion, are part and parcel of the hard sell that some organizations make. We may be disenfranchised but the odds are against it and I wouldn't hold your breath.

I would like to make some comments about the state of the USAKF and other groups on the national level.

We realized our dream of putting karate on the schedule for Pan American Games as the necessary first step toward the Olympics. It was an impossible task which carried us all over the world and through countless smoke filled meetings. Everyone thought we could never do it, the odds against success were just too heavy because of world karate turmoil and we were repeatedly told that our goal was impossible because no sport can enter the games without an international federation recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC); and karate had none.

Nevertheless, we persevered, even though we ourselves were now suspended as a result of the IOC suspension of the World Union of Karate Organizations (WUKO).

Then, by the grace of God, the miracle happened and we were there. This great task was undertaken with no reward in mind except the betterment of American karate. Having done this work, as a small token of respect for the leaders that have gone before us, it really was a shame that individuals, for whatever reason, attacked our federation. The constant stream of invectives disseminated daily in the form of fabrication, distortion, innuendo and outright lies had an overwhelming influence on our federation.

We didn't spend much time rebutting these attacks or publicizing our plans because it could have perverted our simple tactics of truth, justice, cooperation, and integrity. We are sure that people of a certain ilk believe there was honor to be gained in winning a prize such as the karate federation of the United States, but, as columnist Tom Wicker says, "If there is no honor at the start of the war, there can be none at the end."

We are mindful of the tale of the man who told bad stories about a young lady, and then, in a peculiar twist, married her . Isn't it then true that he had slandered his own family's reputation? We are excruciatingly aware that American karate masters must cooperate so we have avoided the bad habit of irresponsible finger pointing lest we might have to marry an object of our disparagement.

However, it is not true that the USAKF broke away from the AAU and formed a new group. This wild hallucination couldn't be further from the truth, and as Bob Trias used to say, aliens from outer space must have come down and eaten the brains of the people who made it up it. The USAKF is nothing more or less than the traditional and historical National AAU Karate Committee, Inc., now called the USA Karate Federation.

The primary goal of the USAKF, was to get karate on the program of the Pan American Games and I decided that the job would require my concentrated efforts and therefore resigned the position of AAU karate program chairman in favor of a trusted assistant. The problems began there, the AAU Karate, now under a different leader, stated its goals clearly-to take over the USAKF and depose its leadership.

The USAKF was now aimed for the games, with principles and strategic goals. At each meeting of the USAKF, attendees could count on me writing all the principles and goals of the Federation on the blackboard, and they would groan because they knew a lengthy, detailed examination was coming. I felt strongly that adherence to sound, consistently held goals and principles was the only method for the Federation to achieve its objectives.

I felt that the karate masters of the United States had to be involved and support the federation if it was to succeed. I know that many sports exist for the athlete but in the martial arts the sensei is the most valued figure. What if we were to say that we favor a student competitor over the learned sensei?

We respect and don't interfere with the operation of the dojos and associations of our members. We don't care what organization you belong to; we honestly appreciate good attitudes and resolute eagerness to cooperate in competitive events for the best interest of karate. As a result, our competitive structure is a model of uniformity, fairness, impartiality, safety, and is of unrivaled technical quality. The USAKF national tournament structure is the most effective, comprehensive, and best organized in the country.

Another outrageous fabrication is that the USAKF was shamefully dismissed by the USOC. This is simply a savage attack on the federation. The United States Olympic Committee did not withdraw its sanction from the USA Karate Federation because we did something wrong, as alleged. Our membership simply lapsed because the WUKO did not have IOC recognition. The USOC had given us over a year of grace that ran out in January 1991. Our status automatically lapsed at that time. That is all there is to it!

When the WUKO regained Olympic recognition, we applied again for US recognition and were asked to reapply. At our hearing there was a strong personal attack on the USAKF administration and the alleged lack of athletes' rights. The AAU was invited as was Nishiyama, and they both spoke to block the USAKF's application. Because of the attacks, we did not get in.

We were not attacked until we got into the Pan American Games. I got us into the Pan American Games --I did that personally it was me, and a few friends in the Pan America Karate --and me only --not the AAU or any other group that accomplished that impossible task. It was a miracle - an act of God!

After reaching the games, the Federation was targeted for destruction, by karate leaders and others, that I will tell you about personally, when I see you again and if you remind me.I might have done some things differently, but then we would not have reached the games. We could have spent our limited resources on a small handful of elite athletes, instead we dedicated all our assets towards getting into the games.

I hated the circumstances so much that when we had completed the Pan American Games and returned to the US, I resigned from the entire situation.

Today finds the USAKF as still the best run and most fair of all the Federations of the US. The AAU and the USA-NKF can do their thing but we will continue to develop and grow and to dedicate ourselves to defense of the real values of the martial arts.

I know that people will go to the other groups for competition, and that is fine, but for our main group, they know what happened and the reasons and really feel that the whole thing was rotten to the core and will not support any other group but the USAKF for general competition. Of course, when they have to go to the Games now or to the World Championships, the must belong to the USA_NKF also.

I say, and it is echoed by many "Is there no honor in karate?" Everything is not political, and if it is, I won't be there. I intend to hold certain values as more important that presiding over money.

We have a great organization and it would be a pleasure to have you participating

Please forgive me if I rambled on. Best Personal Regards, George Anderson

August 8, 1997 -- Sensei Boxx--bakyong@ims-1.com

...About bout the Central Taekwondo Association. We are a good organization to belong to and provide the protection and background for the Korean Karate Practitioner as well as other styles. We provide legitimate ranking, and other such things for our members. However, we have many sides, and is it the Korean Karate or just Karate, or Taekwondo that you are interested in?

Please take a look at my web page and tell me what you think. I founded my own style in 1995 after working on it since 1987. The style has a Korean base, but has Brazilian styles of grappling, karate, Aikido and pai long kung fu as well. This should give you more insight as to what I might need as a member. Also there are several articles on there that I have written pertaining to teaching.

Please let me know all of the fees involved in joining, as well as what fees I am charged each time I run a student promotion through you. I also would like to know some generic requirements for 6th dan.

My martial arts web page: http://www.igateway.net/~jharrell/bakyong (I am on the left with embroidered black belt, front row.)

August 29, 1997 -- The results from the nationals are posted now on the National Championship Message Page.

August 19, 1997C -- Karate in the Olympics? -- Australia --Frances Weeks Email: cweeks@net1.nw.com.au

Question -- Currently my children are Yoseikan Ryu karate students in Australia and the question of karate at the Olympics arises more frequently, especially with the Sydney 2000 Olympics imminent. My son has consequently chosen to write a report on the pros and cons (especially the pros) of why karate should be an event, noting that taekwondo and judo are already accorded that honour. If you could give us any advice it would be enormously appreciated. Thank you for any time you may be able to afford. Rgds

Our Response -- Sorry to be back to you so late. Karate will not be in the Olympics because it appears that it already has karate - Korean Karate, aka Taekwondo. This is a real controverial statement!

August 11, 1997 -- New addition to the Kwanmukan in the Dayton, Ohio area

Jeff and Susan Hudson have a new addition to the family, aka Luke - 8 pounds and 20.25" stature.

Jeff is in Dayton finishing up his doctoral work in archeology. Besides being a karate sensei, he is a national class fencer. He tells a hair raising story about spilling his motorcycle on the berm of the road while traveling about 45 miles/ hr., hitting the pavement, rolling many times and then rolling to his feet running - and got away with no injuries.

August 10, 1997 -- Re Taekwondo vs. Karate as an Olympic sport - from California correspondent

Dear Mr. Anderson ---- So, ---- Am I to infer that, seeing that TKD is instituting a sparring competition similar to ours and that a Korean may well be the next IOC Chairman, karate has no chance to become an Olympic sport? Am I to infer further that you saw this writing on the wall LONG before anyone else?

Our reply,

This is still all conjecture, that karate is dead, that Korean Karate will reign supreme and that Japanese karate will be wiped out.

I expect Korean Karate to morph and Japanese karate to do the same thing - you understand that they have in advertising as well as instruction -- note the Chuck Norris Karate Centers. However, karate sports remain different - maybe 20 kinds of karate competition and now 2 types of Olympic wannabees, one in and one out of the games. I think the sport of karate is the best one but that is a position that I would be expected to hold. I am certain that the Korean groups will return to their roots and make a run at capturing our popular game. With their resources and position, they have a good chance, and there are all kinds of indications of a move in that direction.

August 2, 1997 --We hear that the AAU Nationals were large (nearly 2500 persons) and apparently went very well except for complaints about the referee council being rude and snooty. (We have heard that one before in our own federation and we sure don't want to hear it again - note the message above.)

We also hear that the USA-NKF had about 3500 persons and did have some problems. We discount the 3500 persons because it is nearly impossible to run that amount through in 2 days and especially when reports say that kid sat at ringside for nearly 8 hours because of data information breakdowns. We are also told that they did not have air conditioning and that the site was small. Does anyone have any information about how many match areas were used?

April 21, 1997 -- Subject: Answer to critical comments from Chillicothe, Ohio

Dear JT & SHERI MOCCABEE, Thank you for your letter and the comments regarding the 1st USA certified IJJF REFEREES.

Thank you for your letter and the comments. As your letter to us is written in a particularly forthright manner, I hope that you will accept an reply in the same cast.

First off, you observe that you have been a member of the USAKF and USJJ. We thank you for your participation and note that if you were members of the USAKF and the USJJ, then you must be or were registered with Master Don Madden and probably live in Chillicothe, Ohio, am I on the right track?

And now that Don is doing his own thing, you are on either working with him or striking out on your own. Is Shihan Madden a founder of the American Budo Federation?

You note that we "always mention all of the people in your immediate area and their successes in the IJJF." That is probably true but we also mention other areas when we are informed of interesting news.

For the comment that you have been snubbed, I don't understand that because we really try to avoid acting that way. Could you be more exact and cite an occasion when you were snubbed?

You comment that we: always mention all of the people in our immediate area and their successes in the IJJF! - and that: Just to set the record straight: you led the FIRST Americans all USA KARATE MEMBERS to the IJJF training camp in Austria in 1992 a full year BEFORE ANY OF YOUR LOCALS!!!!

(I am sure that your reference to -locals was meant in a nice way as these persons have really had wide international experience)

For your leading the Americans to the IJJF training cam in Austria in 1992, you may have been there but I can't find any papers naming you the leader of the group that we authorized to attend; did we actually designate you the leader, and could you send us a copy of the nomination so that we can correct our records?

You note that the five of you became THE FIRST INTERNATIONAL JU-JITSU LICENSED USA CERTIFIED REFEREES a full YEAR before any other USA FEDERATION members. I am sure that is true and you are to be congratulated for your foresight. However we all know that to be certified is just part of the obligation of the referee and the actual working as a referee is the proof of the pudding (certification.) We have missed you on the further competitions of the USJJ and we hope to see you in operation in future matches. If you don't like to drive to our area why don't hold a USJJ competition in your area?

10. You also state: "And to date I am still the ONLY USA team representative to the 1993 WORLD CUP IN COPENHAGEN, DENMARK, to do BOTH duo and fighting in the same World Cup!!!!!" That is very good and we applaud you. But please remember that in the competition, we had athletes like Dr. Michael Dunphy in the Duo division. Mike is an excellent fighter and a great champion, was number one in his division in the USA, and the first seed on the USAKF National Karate Team for some time, 7th in the WUKO in fighting and competed in kumite for WUKO in the World Games. The point is that he is a great fighter and champion and his willingness to fight is not in question. You should know that it is a fact that many of the Judo persons of the IJJF do not like the kumite or sparring and we agree because we are of the opinion that it can destroy one's ability to participate in karate high level kumite. The IJJF is still working on the rules and perhaps they will be better in the future.

For you certifications, we are happy to hear that you and you fellow team members all have our USA COACHES certificates. Unfortunately, we don't have a listing of that and if you will send me a copy of the certificates, we will correct our records and post the correction on the web.

In further criticism, you cite that you were a member of the World Kobudo Federation before me personally. You are misinformed about that. Dickey Morris is a very good friend of mine and actually attended one of our National Police PSDI Instructor Seminars here in Akron many years ago, gaining an Instructors Certificate at the event. And furthermore, the Kwanmukan, as a part of the USKA under Grandmaster Robert Trias, has used the name World Kobudo Federation for at least 10 years, dating back to when the now WKF was called Jujitsu International, a group under which I hold some high dan certifications. I think that when Shihan Morris decided to use the name WKF he was not aware of the prior use in the USA.

The comment that you have even tried to iron out my differences with me per telephone, to no avail puzzles me. I don't recall ever talking to you on the telephone and don't recall talking to anyone about the issues raised here. When did this all occur? You further state that you must be assured of fair treatment!!! That in itself is fair enough and everyone deserves the same.

For the AMERICAN BUDO ASSOCIATION, we wish you the best of luck and hope you have good success with your venture. The USJJ now has about 15,000 or so members and it is becoming a real problem in getting the information out. We have gone to the web for much of the operations but still use the mails for notification of meeting, etc.. I am sure you have the same problem with you 350 members, especially if you are a non-profit, tax-exempt federation (501.C3) as I am sure your are.

In closing, we will be glad to link your organization is we know your address, who the directors are, their qualification (rank, style, and instructor) and the scope of operations.

We invited you to attend any of the USJJ functions in the coming year and will notify you of same if you request it or if you are a member of the federations

July 23, 1997 --Daniel, age 9 4th kyu, Zen Bu Kan Kempo Karate, Gosford, Australia

Question: Training require me to research other sparring champions and which techniques they score the most points with, can anybody help me?

Answer: The best idea for sparring is to study the use of the hands and for ground fighting to study chokes, but at your age stay away from the chokes and just study escapes and pins.

July 23, 1997 Re PSDI --Ramon Flores Ramos, Shudokan, Mexico,

Question: What's up with the PSDI, and with the Major Robert D. Kutz? I am the son of the Prof. Ramon Flores Ortega, representative of PSDI in Mexico in the the year of 90 -92 .

Answer: We are starting to reactivate the USKA PSDI with many important law-enforcement officers and soon will have a web page just for that group. I suggest that you keep membership in the PSDI through the USAKF. I do remember you father and that he was an official of the PSDI.

My teacher's teacher was a Shihan of the Shudokan founder Kanken Toyama, and so I do have a certain affinity for your group. You can become a member of the USAKF by simply filling out the forms and sending the required fees and information. It is also important for us to have representatives listed in all countries like our predecessor, the USKA under Grandmaster Robert Trias, did.

July 22, 1997 --RE: USANKF from the Goju-Ryu Karate-Do Kyokai Newsletter July, 1997

In 1996 the US Olympic Committee granted National Governing Body status to the USANKF. Since that time, the GKK has made numerous attempts to join this organization with little success. Although many letter, calls and faxes have gone unanswered, the GKK will continue to make efforts to establish a relationship with the USANKF.

[The GKK is affiliated with the USAKF]

July 21, 1997 --Competition Season --Dr. Michael J. Dunphy

This is a note to all current and past members of the USAKF. The national convention in January clearly set the stage for great opportunities as the USAKF defines itself more clearly as a grass-roots developmental organization. The Federation has always been focused on providing our nation's Karate-ka with a fair and challenging competition venue in which excellence could develop and thrive. As we approach the 1997 competition season, I hope that we can muster the determination to support the USAKF with our time, energy and participation. For many years now, the Federation, under the leadership of Mr. Anderson, and the management of many talented individuals, has weathered many battles, created countless opportunities and forged ahead for the sake of our athletes. I am looking forward to a great competition season with all of you, and the continuing growth and development of OUR karate federation.

[We are not only in a battle for the values of our culture but also a battle for the values of our great martial art, Karate. The battle to see who can lead the Olympic body is irrelevant compared to the fight to save the art from persons entirely focused on the sporting fun element.]

Shihan Michael Dunphy, USAKF National Referee and 1983-1987 USA Karate National Team Member

July 21, 1997 --Timothy Norfolk, norfolk@vonneumann.cs.uakron.edu

I am in agreement with all that you point out -- the slam on the term "doctor" was intended for many of the martial artists that are now using that title based on a type of honorary degree. It is true that the European and Hispanic cultures use the title unabashedly as well as Esquire, Licenciado, Colonel, Don--etc.

As you notice, I always refer to our legit Ph.D.s as Doctor in terms of address (except for this letter of course). Regards, GEA

July 8, 1997 --John DiPasquale, Sr. died early this morning, He had suffered from a long illness. We forward our sympathies to his family and will always remember his as a great asset and supporter of karate in the Americas.

June 29 , 1997 --Comment on Jim Cottrell's letter by John Horrigan

Dear Mr. Cottrell, I read with some interest your comments on the USAKF message board and it brought some questions to mind. What kind of progress are you looking for? --.Who has been trashing Hanshi Anderson?

I am a Shodan black belt of Shihan Andrea's, and in the past four years I have seen quite a bit of progress. At our certifications I am encouraged to see the ranks of white and orange belts steadily increase with new members. I am also seeing a lot of the same faces at all of the certifications. This means that a majority of the students are sticking with their training. I see more and more parent/child combinations starting and testing together. To me, all of this is extremely progressive. The Kwanmukan is growing by leaps and bounds. The quality of teaching is progressing, which is keeping more students interested and active in the Kwanmukan. The image of Karate is also progressing or there wouldn't be as many parents getting involved with their children. Isn't that one of the basic principles of Karate, to promote family harmony and dedication? How many other sports do you know of that do this. Progress? Maybe there isn't a lot of progress on the international level but on the local and personal levels there is tremendous progress.

As far as people trashing Hanshi Anderson...I am the first to admit that I am not involved in the upper hierarchy of the martial arts community, but other than some of the fools who write the message board and trash him there, I have never heard anybody else refer to Hanshi with anything but great respect. Haven't we all been taught not to react to stupid thing that are said about ourselves or those around us? To respond to the people who write foolish things only gives credibility to their words. Also, Hanshi Anderson is a very dominant figure in the martial arts world. When a person is on top, there is always somebody looking to talk about them, bad or good, true or false. Hanshi understands this and I am sure that he expects it from time to time. I also don't think he expects his karateka to fight his battles for him. When there is something credible to respond to, he responds appropriately. If it isn't credible, he does the honorable thing and ignores it. Respectfully, John Horrigan

June 26, 1997--Re: Letter from Jim Cottrell--William Huber, BGDESIGNS1@aol.com

To: usakf Jim, in reply to your letter that Mr. Anderson forwarded to us through www, personally I take my leadership on such matters as personal attacks on our organization and Grandmaster Anderson directly from his teachings. We within the Kwan Mu understand that professional and personal attacks are of no more importance that we give them. We as a group must be smarter and stronger than to be drawn into a conflict of words. We fight the fights that we choose to fight, not the fights that we are drawn into. To quote Grandmaster Anderson "The problem with being a bug is that bugs get stepped on." The answer is Mu, we are what we are and no attack can change that. Huber

June 25, 1997 Re: Letter from Jim Cottrell -- Jeffrey A. Hudson

Jeff, Thanks for the kind words. By the way, have you ever seen or heard of the Ultimate Fighting Challenge where they beat on each other without rules. The say that the Jujitsuan is the ultimate fighting person. I wonder how they would do against a good man with a rapier or saber. Poke- poke! Best Regards, Hanshi Anderson

Reply:

Hanshi, I have heard of the UFC but not seen any. I think you're right. If they would allow the use of similar weapons, a top flight epeeist with good distance would beat the "samurai-wannabe" any day. The incredible point control would first be used on the wrist and arm, opening many wounds. After a few minutes I picture the killing strike from the epeeist to be perfectly timed, after an attempted katana stroke, piercing the eye or throat. The epeeist must use their head, however, and be very patient. Rushing in would probably result in two deaths.

By the way, I took fourth in epee at the Sectional's this year out of a field of 48 (Great Lakes Section= Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Kentucky). Next year I will win. It qualified me for Division I competition at National's this year but they are in CA at the time my son is to be born. Thus, I won't go.

I have the "text book for applied Ippon Kumite Standards..." issued last year at your Symposium. If there are any updates or manuals that I do not have PLEASE have Carol send them and any cost to the address below.

I received an e-mail from Shihan Hickey regarding a book he has published. I intend to order it but haven't had time to yet.

With all respect, Jeff Hudson

June 23, 1997 --Comment on the Nationals

The Nationals are coming up on the first of August.

There are many events this summer but this one is the one to win. Every great champion of the Olympic karate movement was on it - Many great athletes, including Billy Blanks, Tokey Hill, Tracey Day, John Linebarger have been champions of the USAKF or the USAKF/AAU National Karate Committee [The name used prior to the middle 80's]. We have held national championships for over 25 years, and we take a back seat to nobody.

We have a true a true national championship where you contest with people you don't know, but who share the goal of representing their dojos at the national level. Many national events are, in effect, just the years competition done over again, fighting with the same local people in the same league with the same habits and the same referees, but this time awarding a "national" title. Not ours!

Karate from different states, styles, and organizations are displayed with good sportsmanship and the budo mind. For fairness, we use double eliminations and honest and just referees to get the best result.

Too many tournaments are biased toward a particular style, ignore the principles of Budo, and fostering the myth of American inferiority. We show the strength of American karate in a true national championship with no favoritism and with sportsmanship and budo working together.

The USAKF is the original organization which was the start for all of today's national federations who claim connections to the Olympic movement. We took karate to the Pan American Games and now have dedicated ourselves to the development of the USA Karate-ka.

Our competitions are hard to win and just competing in them is rewarding and valuable. We have a true national championship in the interest of the USA.

June 17, 1997-- Letter from Jim Cottrell to all associates

Subject: Who We Are

From: Jim Cottrell, JimCotrell@aol.com

I have not heard from most of you for over two years. Perhaps it is time to remind ourselves who we are, what and where we came from and who is responsible for it.

We have all traveled a long, hard road to achieve what was and will be achieved. Tournaments come and go and the world and life travel on. You cannot and must not ever forget who brought you along for the ride of your life.

George Anderson is responsible for taking me more places than I ever dreamed possible. Introducing me to the truly great karate masters of our time & he has done the same for each of you.

He brought our sport/lifestyle to great recognition on the world stage and he did this at great personal, emotional & financial sacrifice. We should never, ever forget that. I truly wish that I was in position to work again with him, but because of my location and personal situation I am not. I will say that I will endeavor to make sure that he receives all honors and platitudes that are due him, for what he has done and continues to do.

I am disappointed that in the time I have been gone, no progress has been made in anything. I am still hearing of people trashing George and I see and hear no one defending him very loudly. Are you all without souls? Are you all without spines? The situation with the NGB has not changed. Athletes are still paying. Where is the money? As much as they trashed and harassed us and our leader, where are you now that he needs you. What is your problem?

I am available for comments by phone or E-Mail.

Good luck at your tournament, I wish I could be there.

June 23, 1997 ---Humor - We received this by Email and thought that it was correctly alluded to some martial arts (or course, not ours).

Joke

Dictionary of Evaluation Comments:

AVERAGE: Not too bright.

ZEALOUS ATTITUDE: Opinionated.

QUICK THINKING: Offers plausible excuses for errors.

A KEEN ANALYST: Thoroughly confused.

METICULOUS IN ATTENTION TO DETAIL: A nitpicker.

DEMONSTRATES QUALITIES OF LEADERSHIP: Has a loud voice.

KEEN SENSE OF HUMOR: Knows lots of dirty jokes.

ENJOYS JOB: Needs more to do.

HAPPY: Paid too much.

USES RESOURCES WELL: Delegates everything.

Source: Random Siliness http://www.voiceone.com/html/silliness.html

June 23, 1997

We hear the following comment was published by a prominent organization: "The Olympics are here and Ju-Jitsu's sport version of Judo created by Jigoro Kano will be there once again."

What do you think of the current Jujitsu laying claim to Judo? Perhaps true but do you think that th link exists today? Does Jujitsu own Judo?

5. 6/20/97 Subject: Printouts---Gregory L. Morrissette, GregoryMor@aol.c

I downloaded a copy of rules and explanations. Thank you for making it so easy!

June 10, 1997---How to compete -- Angel Reyes---legna51@worldpass.ne

Address: 13285 S.W. 103 terr Miami,Florida 33186
Club: Kenpo Mania--Our Head Instructor: Jeff Giordano

Comments: 1.How to get on a traveling team? 2.How try out for a national team?

Dear Angel,

We set a team pool from the National Winners and then also invite other hopefuls that may have been competing at the state and regional levels. For some trips we have team trials and for others we simply have a team selection committee make the choice.

The primary way to get going is to compete in the USAKF so that you can understand what it is we are doing, and gain a good feeling for the World Karate Federation Rules.

June 9, 1997 What is the USAKF --Leigh Bullock

Address: currently Hattiesburg, MS (in college)...permanent residence Columbus, Georgia. I go back to Georgia in May. 3212 College Drive Columbus, Georgia. 31907
Club: Burnsides Karate Academy Our Head Instructor: Biljac and Joanna Burnside.
Styles of Martial Arts practiced: Amateur Athletic Union, USANKF, Mississippi Karate Association

Comments: I am involved in the USANKF tournaments. I plan on going to Colorado this summer for the nationals. I have been told that if a first place at the nationals is received those persons are automatically placed on the USA karate team. What is the difference between the USAKD and the USANKF? I am also very interested in the USA karate team...I have fellow dojo members that have participated in this last year in Greece, placing third and second. I am a strong and determined competitor and have taken the state title with the MKA(along with 3 grand champions) and the AAU competing this Saturday at the AAU regionals to go to the new complex in Orlando. I also participated in a tourn.here given by Jimmy Blann in Southaven, MS...a USANKF qualifier(placed 1st and 2nd)...and am going to the nationals in Colorado Springs, CO this summer...along with an alternate position competing for the Okinawan World Championships this summer in August. I am very interested in the USA karate team? Am I in the wrong circuit? And what is the difference.. I thought the two were connected somehow?

Leigh,

Thank you for the note and I will try to answer some of your questions. By the way, my father was a Deacon at the Main Street Baptist Church there in Hattiesburg and my step-mother left them quite a lot of money when she died.

The USAKF and the USANKF are closely related. The USAKF resigned the position of the Olympic karate representative after a grand hassle in favor of being a grass roots organization, training and developing athletes. The administration was just too much and interfered with the karate that we all love so well.

We are of outstanding quality and most of the persons in the USANKF were with our group. We are large, fair and you would get great experience here. The AAU is the AAU and is not the same as the USAKF, even thought the USAKF at one time was the AAU and we ran the program as such.

The USAKF is in my mind the best and greatest organization in the USA and we have and will dominate the competition on the basis of better training and more qualified personnel, which includes greater concern for the deep values of the Karate.

By the way, who is your teacher and how old are you? If you are thinking about Okinawa, does that mean that you are an Okinawan stylist, and with whom are you considering going?

My advice is to follow the USANKF if you are a top athlete and ready for the Pan American Games or the WKF World Championships, if not, get ready for that in the USAKF. If the AAU is readily available that is a good second choice but I recommend the USAKF, of course.

We will have a summer and winter Nationals with various teams in between. We would really enjoy seeing you there.

May 26, 1997 - Regarding Universal credentials -- Robert E. Chamberlin Jr.

REC19235 @ AOL.COM

Comments: Spoke with Master John Townsley at a recent tournament re:standardization of guidelines for certification of martial artists. Whole-heartedly agree with the concept of a World Standard. Beneficial to all concerned, especially those who wish to begin studying martial arts, so as not to become disillusioned by unqualified personnel.

May 6, 1997 -HELP!--Kyokushin in USA---Email: thomas-m@post7.tele.dk

Name: Thomas Mortensen

>Vesterbrogade 56. 5 Floor - 1620 Copenhagen Vest - Denmark Club: Shinryokudan Nansensgade

>Our Head Instructor: Sensei Allan Christensen Kyokushin Karate

Comments: More about Kyokushin karate! Or perhaps this is the wrong place? >This is my second mail containing the full address.

Dear Thomas,

For your question, we don't have and special or direct relationship with the Kyokushinkai Association of the USA at this time, we were more related to the Olympic Committee karate, WUKO and the IJJF with Frank Furst there in Copenhagen.

May 29, 1997 Interest Panam Games ----Frank Greco, fjg@interaccess.com

Club: Illinois Shotokan Karate Clubs -Head Instructor: John DiPasquale

Comments: I'm currently interested in the progress of the US karate team at the Pan AM Games. My Sensei Jim Buchen is competing.

Dear Frank,

The Pan American Games which come every 4 years. I controlled the last one for karate, but the new USANKF under Julius Thiry is now in charge of this next one. We are involved deeply with the training of the athletes and will support our athletes to the fullest as we have done in the past.

Your best bet is to save your money, practice, get experience (and don't forget our nationals as noted below), get some strong advocates and try to move forward. This part of the USA has the best fighters for now but with some adjustments on the refereeing, watch the West Coast come alive and our people put out. This is what we are getting set to fight.

>Name: Frank Greco

>Address: 606 Whispering Hills Dr., Naperville, Il. 60540

June 23, 1997 -- This is a dated letter (1996) but the message is still interesting

Subject: THE GREAT GEORGE ANDERSON

LCrouse309@aol.com

I believe the Kwanmukan gives false hope to practitioners.the style revolves around traditional techniques which are useless in real combat.Therefore the Kwanmukan should focus on the effectiveness of the technique rather than the tradition.they worship the old geezers that can't fight rather than great fighters like myself.

June 23, 1997 This is a dated letter (02/12 /97) but the message is still inspirational.

Denise Daniel, slaucon@gulftel.com

Dear Hanshi Anderson:

Thank you for your acknowledgement and interest in me! I am a 6th grade blue belt in Chung Do Kwan Tae Kwon Do. I have studied with Bobby Kucera since 1993. I had about a year "off" after I broke a collar bone - no one's fault but my own - and I am presently trying to "catch up". Get back in shape - so to speak. I am 45 years old. Hoping to be good for at least another 45. Sabum Nim Kucera received his black belt in Korea (while he was in the Army during Vietnam) from Choi Wha Sung who is still his instructor. He has now progressed to sixth black and has plans to continue. We are not affiliated with the WTF at this time. Some students compete in Atlanta, most compete locally. A few travel to Louisiana and Mississippi. I have competed twice, only once sparring at a very local open tournament in Pensacola sponsored by the Poff's of Poff's Tae Kwon Do in Gulf Breeze, FL. My cousin, whom I had not seen in 20 years, is a black belt at Poff's school so martial arts is really more than an exercise class for me - it is opening new doors and doors that had been closed. I suppose that even if I were incapable of the physical part of the martial arts - the philosophy would capture me.

So much for myself. I hope to continue opening those doors and I hope that you do keep in touch and I will do the same.

May 12, 1997 - Here are some good comments that have reached us from the troops:

* This one applies to organizing the Martial Arts -- "It's the equivalent of herding squirrels "- says Alfred Blumstein - Criminologist at Carnegie Mellon University , on the challenge of organizing a nationwide team of 39 social scientist for a #12 million federal study of violence.

* And--this quote describes our future earnings: -"in the future, half the people will be paid twice as much for doing three times the work"

*Plaudits from Joseph R. Marth, Ph.D., Nationwide Insurance Performance Improvement Organization, National Training Center, 9243 North High Street, Lewis Center, OH 43035. Phone: (614)840-7212; Fax: (614)840-7131; Email: marthj@nationwide.com

Hanshi: We met at Shihan Hickey's Sansen and discussed the USAKF web site. I just wanted to compliment you again on the quality of it - the photos are fantastic. I can see that a tremendous amount of work went into the site's creation; I'm proud being a black belt in such a progressive organization. With highest regards.

*I am a student of Shihan Andrea and I tested for Shodan-ho this last Sunday. I wanted to personally thank you for all of the time and effort you put forth to help me and all of the other karateka. It is a tremendous learning experience when we get to get tips and pointers from other instructors. I look forward to seeing you at the next testing when I test for Shodan. Hopefully I will be able to put into practice what I learned at testing. Respectfully, John Horrigan

I was reading about setting a point system for tournaments.I would like to know how it works, (including the ratings or ranking of the points). I would like to have a listing of all the tournaments that will have the point system this year if I could.I think that tournaments is a great way to show what we have learned,as well as to learn from others.

Linda, The point system year will begin at this years nationals in Akron, Ohio on August 1, 1997. Michael Bukala, a many time point champion of the USKA will administer the system. We will soon notify all our competitor about the how to earn the point champion titles.

Sir/Madam, We are one of the very few production companies in Asia who produce movies for the international market, and we have a project that we intend to shoot this year and we'd like to get the services of Ms. Mimi Lesseos, who starred in several martial arts pictures in the States, including "Beyond Fear", which was produced by her Stepping Out Productions.

We were informed that Ms. Lesseos is still active in the USA Karate Federation, and we would appreciate it very much if you can provide us her address where we can get in touch with her for negotiation. We'd appreciate it also if you can provide Ms. Lesseos with the following information, so that she can get in touch with us directly.

BOBBY A. SUAREZ FILM PRODUCTIONS, INC.SUITES 206-207 M.F. TIAOQUI BUILDING PLAZA STA. CRUZ MANILA 1003 PHILIPPINES TEL. NOS. (632) 733.0106 & 733.6827 FAX. NO. (632) 733.0104 E-Mail Address: basfilm@webquest.com

We'd appreciate it if you can respond to this e-mail, whether or not you will be able to assist us on the information that we need regarding Ms. Lesseos.

----USAKF Reply: George Anderson wrote: Sorry, we can't help you, we know of now such person in the USA Karate Federation.

Dear Mr. Anderson,T hank you for your e-mail. I appreciate you taking time out to find out whether Ms. Lesseos is still active in the federation. Best regards. John S. Suarez

Mr. Anderson, Thanks you so much for your help and for answering my questions. I do appreciate it!--Karen Lindell, L.A. Parent magazine

***Hello Mr. Anderson,

I am an associate editor at L.A. Parent magazine--I spoke with you on the phone last week regarding an article I'm working on about martial arts. You suggested that I e-mail my request for statistical information.

I'd appreciate your help in answering the following questions:

Question: Is Karate being considered as a future Olympic sport?

----USAKF Reply: It is recognized as a sport federation but no action is anticipated by the International Olympic Committee to schedule an event into the Olympic Games.

Question: What is the percentage increase in kids (ages 12 and under) taking karate/martial arts classes over the past 5 years? 10 years? (Or whatever time spread you have information about.)

----USAKF Reply: We think about 500 % in the last 10 years and it doubled in the last 5 years

Question: What is the percentage increase in karate/martial arts classes being offered over the same time period?

----USAKF Reply: It appears that the classes offered have doubled also with growth in the schools and the private gyms about equal

Question: The focus of my article is actually on books and videos about the martial arts for kids, and the growth of "Parent-and-Me" martial arts classes.

----USAKF Reply: We have much of that now and entire families are practicing. This has really grown, and our samples, has tripled in the last 5 years.

Question: Do you recommend any particular books or videos? What is the value of these products (if any)?

----USAKF Reply: We recommend several books on the subject.

Human Kinetics, 1607 North Market Street PO box 5076, Champaign, Il, 61825 (217) 351-2674 $ 15.95 --- The American Coaching Effectiveness Program (the national authority on youth sports) has a great book out by Patrick Hickey called "Karate Techniques and Tactics", available from the ACEP program and the USAKF 1554 Ritchie Rd., Stow, Ohio 44224

I, of course since I was a co-author, like "Modern Karate", Miroto Karate Publishing Company, Rockville Center, NY - by Milorad Stricevic M.D. , Dusan Davic, Toyotaro Miyazaki, George Anderson--Available from Focus Publications PO Box 15853, St. Louis, MO 63114 $40.00

Question: What are the benefits of Parent-and-Me classes?

----USAKF Reply: They provide a direct link from the gym into the home and family and really increase the understanding and communications between parents and children.

Question: Why have the martial arts become so popular recently!

----USAKF Reply: Because they are fun and the direct application to the protection and nurturing of the family in this society can be clearly seen by the student and the family.

I really appreciate your time in answering my questions. Thank you very much!

March 18, 1997 --- From: Mike Canning, gabrielk@hotmail.com Subject: karate paper

Hi my name is Mike Caning and I writing you to ask you a question. I am senior at mountain view High school and I have to write a paper called senior Thesis. My subject is martial arts, I have to relate karate to society and how karate is not used for a weapon but it is a art that can teach respect and self control. I myself take Kenpo Karate and I am advance green belt. If you would please e mail back at irishdino@Ao .com. This is my home address I am at my school doing this. So if you would please write back and tell how you would relate martial Arts to society. Sincerely , Mike Canning

----USAKF Reply: The martial arts relate to society in the manner that they instill values unrelated to whether a matter is legal or not, provide a clear platform from which judgments and discriminations are made, provide good health to personals of all ages, and last but not least, allow us to protect our nation, family, society. I surely want my grandchildren to practice the martial arts for the sake of the survival and prospering of my family. Thanks again for your interest, USAKF

March 15, 1997 ---Subject: How do I get to the Olympics From: Email: Charity Maclay, Great Falls, Va.MACMOM4 @ AOL

Comments: Yes! I am currently ranked #1 in my division in both NASKA and NBL in fighting ( Girls - 14 y.o.) I want to be Olympic Bound but don't know how to get into the competitions for Olympic Tae Kwon Do. How do I get this information so that I can compete?

----USAKF Reply: Dear Charity, the way to move toward the Olympics is the same for all the Martial Arts. You must gain experience in the Olympic style of competition and then go to the team trials to again a seat on the team for the USA. The eligibility requirements are not complex and will be posted on our web site soon.

March 15, 1997 --- Subject: Tradition weapons --- From: Terry Gruel, tgruel@acraline.com

Sirs, I am looking for a nice pair of kama with a stainless steel blade (no holes in blades). I am not interested in the cheap stuff in Century or Asian World products, but a quality pair of kama. Do you know anyone or place that could help me out??

----USAKF Reply: Dear Terry, I am referring this letter to our Kobudo Section, Major James Caldwell. For me, I like the weapons made by Gordon Garland. ---(602) 426-1572 of (505) 542-8438 --- 2714 W Grant #99 Tucson AZ 85745 , He made the weapons for Grandmaster Robert Trias.

March 12, 1997 ---Re: Small Business Consulting, sbusic@post.queensu.ca --Stephen Seneco -- Calamus@Synapse.net

To the USAKF:

Hello. I am a student at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario Canada. I am doing some research work for a project.

[Presenting questions and our comments:]

Question: It is our understanding that Bo staffs are made of wood and that these staffs break very easily. The product that I am is considering will be used specifically for training purposes and will last longer.

----------USAKF Reply Kobudo Technical Section: ------The term "bo" staff is redundant - the words "bo" and "staff" mean the same -- this usage is like saying "bo-bo"-- or "staff-staff"

Question: To complete this research we are wondering if you could answer the following questions or if not, can you give us some contacts that can. We are specifically looking for Associations and Federations that train with Bo staffs and can answer these questions. The questions in particular are:

Question: How much do you spend on Bo staffs per month?

----------USAKF Reply -----About $100

Question: What is your rate of replacement of Bo staffs?

----------USAKF Reply -----Low, because we understand how to treat them, just as a roofer treats his ladders and mop handles.

Question: Would you consider using a Bo stick made of a graphite composite for training purposes?

----------USAKF Reply -----No, because the grip feels substantially different, the same as if the steering wheel of your car was made of a graphic composite, and there is no such thing as TRAINING, just NON COMBAT USAGE is a better phrase.

Question: What do you think will be the rate of acceptance of this staff in the industry compared to the traditional staff for training purposes?

----------USAKF Reply -----Poor

Question: The graphite staff would be 3x stronger but just as flexible as the traditional wooden weapons.

----------USAKF Reply ----Strength is not a real issue but the absorbtion of hand sweat and oils is.

March 12., 1997 ---Subject: Re: Olympic Karate. Landry, Calamus@Synapse.net

Question: Is Karate being considered as a future Olympic sport?

----USAKF Reply

Considered by whom? The World Karate Federation (WKF)wants to be in, they are in many of the regional games such as the Mediterranean Games, the Asian Games, the African Games, the Pan American Games, and it appears that the International Olympic Committee doesn't hold the same high regard for the sport.

The WKF is hopeful and the IOC considers, but does not want karate - So it appears.

Additional note to young aspirant:

Karate is not yet in the Olympics but may be by the time your are old enough to compete as an adult. Currently the USAKF is a developmental organization which uses the international karate rules. Our Nationals are in Akron, Ohio, August 2 and 3. We use the rules of the World Karate Federation which is recognized by the International Olympic Committee.

The NGB is the National Karate-do Federation in Seattle, Wa.

Rapid Rotation Baton, Inc has recently acquired its own URL. Check out our sight at http//:www.rrbaton.com. The sight is an interactive location which allows you to order products via the internet.

Since you are on our mail list you will be notified of news that effects the management,training or product line of RRB,Inc. I'd like to call special attention to our training schedule that can be accessed from the main home page. It will let you know of courses that are scheduled in or around your area. This page changes almost daily so bookmark it for easy access.

If you want to host a Rapid Rotation Baton User or Instructor course, start first by contacting the RRB main office at (888) 302-2866, or make a request through our information submission form also accessed through the main page. We allow the hosting entity two free spots in any of our classes, which will include the baton, holster, manual and training.

Classes can be set up anywhere with a minimum of ten students. Don't waste time, our 1997 schedule is filling up fast!

If you have a chance, stop by TREXPO in Burbank, CA on March 19-20 and see the Rapid Rotation Baton booth and demonstration. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

March 9, 1997 --- Subject: USAKF Competition & politics --- From: Kendrick Chumak

Hewitt, Texas, Baylor Karate Club,Head Instructor: James Melton, Shotokan Style Email: chumak@worldnet.att.net

Dear Kendrick,

Thanks for the note and we hope that the following reply answers your questions. In any event, we have received your address, thank you , and will keep you informed of page changes and other goodies.

Question: When and where do the tournaments occur, such as state, regionals, and nationals?

----USAKF Reply: We do not actually have Regionals any more but many states have championships to award State Champion status, and many states group to have a Regional event, such as the coming Southwest USAKF Regionals to be hosted by Shihan Linebarger in Tucson as posted on the Schedules Page of our web site.

Question: I used to be a member of the USAKF about three or four years back, have the rules changed much?

----USAKF Reply: No, the rules are about the same with the exception that we permit you to wear your patch and there is an Okinawan forms division.

Question: Is there a lot of politics involved in your organization?

----USAKF Reply: Not so much as there was because we are interested in doing and not in the general fight for the National Governing Body. We wan to develop sound karateka and value our members.

Question: What kind of training are your judges required to go through before they can judge?

----USAKF Reply: We have a strong referee committee and teach and train the referees in a traditional sense. Competition depends on referees and we value them highly, but we won't put up with any non-sense.

Question: Can I stay a member of AAU, and become a member of the USAKF simultaneously?

----USAKF Reply: You sure can.

Question: Is the USAKF going to be one of the organizations to go through in order to get to the Olympics, when karate is offered?

----USAKF Reply: We believe that we will - but that day is a long time off.

Question: How much is membership, and entry/competing fees?

----USAKF Reply: The individual membership is $25.00 and the entry fees vary but are normal.

Question: How fair is the judging?

----USAKF Reply: We believe it is the fairest in the United States - and as an indication, we use double eliminations at our Nationals.

This is a note to all current and past members of the USAKF. The national convention in January clearly set the stage for great opportunities as the USAKF defines itself more clearly as a grass-roots developmental organization. The Federation has always been focused on providing our nation's karate-ka with a fair and challenging competition venue in which excellence could develop and thrive. As we approach the 1997 competition season, I hope that we can muster the determination to support the USAKF with our time, energy and participation. For many years now, the Federation, under the leadership of Mr. Anderson, and the management of many talented individuals, has weathered many battles, created countless opportunities and forged ahead for the sake of our athletes. I am looking forward to a great competition season with all of you, and the continuing growth and development of OUR karate federation.

Shihan Michael Dunphy -- USAKF National Referee and 1983-1987 USA Karate National Team Member

March 1, 1997 --Subject: Miscellaneous

We just talked to Jim Cottrell in Florida and he said that he had heard from many high mucky mucks- or at least they think they are so rated, and he wondered what in the world was going on. I fed him the straight line, that we are having fun and practicing hard.

For our next assembly, my mentor, Grandmaster Chull Hee Park will be here to inspect, advise and generally answer questions on the state of the Korean Martial Arts. He is very, very good and we are extremely pleased that he will visit us again.

February 29, 1997 ---From: Martin William Joyce, mumwj4@uxa.ecn.bgu.edu

Subject: Western Illinois Seminar in Macomb--T o: George Anderson, USAKF

Hanshi, I just wanted to say I really enjoyed the seminar you put on. You and Brian Arnold are real talented karateka's. I'm a college student at the University and have been training for three years with Shihan Kuras. I'm the green belt guy that went out to dinner with you guys at the pizza place. Anyway, I enjoyed and understand many of you views on life and karate. I understand Piaget's schema theory. You have to have an open mind about things or your functionally blind. People tend to be narrow minded which restricts them from learning and growing. Powerful concept.

I enjoyed your stories at dinner, particularly about how you know what it's like to be poor even though your a successful man now. I come from an Irish-Italian family out of Chicago and my Irish grandfather just told me a few months ago about how he went through some hard times of being poor in the city. But now he is successful and also knows what its like to be poor. And like you said, my Grandfather also said when you get knocked down you have to get up stronger than you were before. So tough experiences in life make you tough.

I just wanted to let you know I was touched by that because it reminded me of my Grandpa. I really enjoy your seminar's. Your a down to earth American, who is as nice as a bear and as strong as one too. And I'm glad you are so willing to pass on the art of karate, instead of keeping it some secrete to yourself. I also agree with you that if everyone took martial arts there would be less problems in society.

Once again I thank-you for your intense seminar. I learned a lot physically and mentally, and I hope to train with you again in the future.

From the Western Illinois Shotokan Karate Club, Marty Joyce

February 20, 1997 10:40 PM--Subject: Rapid Rotation Baton -- From: Roy Bedard, rrb1@tdo.infi.net

Hello Mr. Anderson,

You talked about a link for the Rapid Rotation Baton. We are at www.tdo.com/ads/rrb/baton.htm. Thanks for your help. Also I would like to get more information on the video capabilities you talked about.

February 9, 1997 --From: Larry Whelan, LWhelan155@aol.com

Hanshi, It was nice talking with you at Shihan Ellis's home on Saturday!! I am looking forward to our next BB class in March. I will keep practicing my knife drills.

Do I have access to the KMK members page? I am just curious.

Subject: Tournament in France

Hi Hanshi: I am waiting for the class to warm up and thought I would say Hi. In my last letter I shared with you I have been working a lot in Jujitsu. We have a Danzan Ryu sandan here. In February we had Herb League 6th Dan, Danzan Ryu and the Chairman of AAU Jujitsu here for a seminar. We worked a lot on entrance and nage waza. He also explained Jujitsu competition with the AAU different from IJJF.

We follow the Jujitsu pensum from Denmark and the IJJF charts for teaching curriculum.

Tommy just got back from Paris a goodwill tournament. Russia, France and USA. Tommy beat the current World Champion from Russia in the 70 kilo division and then the World Champion from France 80 kilo division beat Tommy 6 zip. It was a first for Tommy. He said he learned a lot and gained confidence from the win and humility from the loss.

The Team was, John Fonseca, Doug Selchan, Dustin Baldis, Tommy Hood, Jack Pressman, and Adam Brozer - the Coach was Tokey Hill - the USANKF representative was David Mr. Crockett.

The Team beat the Russians and lost to France. Well that's about it.

February 9, 1997

We hear that Shihan John Linebarger will be taking a trip to Club Med for a seminar Shihan Tom Lapuppet. Call John if you want to go. We will have a major international seminar there, scheduling for next November.

Shihan Pat Hickey and Dr. Michael Dunphy have each written books, Pat's is published by the American Coaching Effectiveness Program (ACEP) and Dr. Dunphy's is titled "Inspiring the Teacher Within" and is found at many book stores Borders included.

We are now getting thousands of email letters each month and it shows the interest of the US in this upstanding martial arts organization.

Item: The USAKF has decided to hold a Summer and Winter Nationals - This summer it will be in Akron, Ohio on August 3-4. There will be an Okinawan form division and a major police certification seminar.

Item: Kwanmukan News: The Kwanmukan has just posted their 1996 black belt promotion list - check the Kwanmukan page. The Annual International Symposium will be held in the month of September, 1997

Item that we are sorry to report: We hear from one of our friends in the Central US that a major karateka in the Ohio River area has been charged and found guilty of fooling around with young girl students and has been sentence for it. If this is true, it is a real black eye for the martial arts and the person involved should be severely castigated. But if history holds true, he will be back teaching as soon as he is discharged. I don't think that is all there is to it and I don't know any other details except that the person was not one of ours and was hostile to our program. Good luck and good riddance!

The results of the World Karate Federation World Championships in Sun City, S. Africa are posted now.

February 8, 1997

From THE UNITED STATES CHITO-RYU KARATE FEDERATION'S NATIONAL NEWSPAPER, Published in the interest of Chito-ryu karate by the U.S. Hombu

The Shihan-kai has announced the election of Shihan Lawrence Hawkins, Jr. as the new National Chairman of the United States Chito-ryu Karate Federation. Shihan Hawkins is a Go-Dan in Chito-ryu and the head instructor of the Cincinnati, Ohio Yoseikan Dojo. He is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati, and the Salmon P. Chase Law School. He is presently the Director of Supply purchases for the Proctor and Gamble Corporation. He served for five years in the United States Air Force, being honorably discharged as a Captain. Shihan Hawkins and his family have a long history of neighborhood and community service in the Cincinnati area

Additional new appointments which were announced by the United States Chito-ryu Shihan-kai are:

Vice Chairman - Terry Valentino (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) --- President - Barbara Tarczynski (Baltimore, Maryland) ---Vice President- James Matthews (West Palm Beach, Florida) -- Director, Shibu-kai - Phillip Arnold (Louisville, Kentucky)--- National Chaplain- Reverend (Doctor) Danny Francis (Nashville, Tennessee) --- Deputy Chief Instructor- James Davenport (Frankfort, Kentucky) --- Ass t. Instructor (Kobudo) - Deborah Herbst (Covington, Kentucky) --- Asst. Instructor Jujitsu) - Tony Hedderman (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)

Following these announcements at the end of summer camp, Kyoshi Dometrich explained he had been considering such matters for the past few years and wanted to turn things over to younger leadership while we still have the older members around for guidance. We have seen Japanese, Okinawan and American organizations wait too long before they started passing leadership responsibilities to the younger, up and coming leaders, (or waited until the founder died). The new leaders then had little or no leadership experience. Kyoshi Dometrich said he hoped that by working younger people into key positions now we can avoid similar problems in the future.

Reported by; Shihan George Van Horne Jr. Director- Shihan-kai

From: James A.L.Dussault N.D. P.M.D. D.Sc.,Dr.Health@iname.com

Dear Grand Master Anderson

Grand Master Nam Suk Lee of the World Chang Moo Kwan Tae Kwon Do would like to thank you for your continued support. The Central Taekwon Do Association is now the largest Chang Moo Kwan sanctioned organization in the United States. This is a great accomplishment and is truly a representation of leadership of C.T.A. Board of Directors. The world Chang Moo Kwan celebrated its 50th year anniversary in September in Seoul Korea. Congratulations on being a part of it and congratulations to all the new black belt members of the C.T.A. and Chang Moo Kwan.

Grand Master Nam Suk Lee, President World Chang Moo Kwan

James A.L. Dussault N.D. P.M.D., President G.M.A.F.,Member C.T.A. U.S.A.K.F. W.K.F.

For the neophytes, the root of the Chang Moo Kwan is the Japan Shudokan.

February 6, 1997 --- From: Justin Zabor., sauer@panama.gulf.net --- Subject: USKK Okinawa Trip with Grandmaster Koeppel

George Anderson wrote: Dear Justin, We have received your address, thank you , and will keep you informed of page changes and other goodies. Say HI to Sensei Batey for me, will you. Are you going to Okinawa with Hanshi Koeppel?

---Reply: Dear Hanshi Anderson, Just now got around to checking messages on the net,appreciate you writing me back so soon.Thank you for putting me in the USAKF mailing list,looking forward to all the information and points of contact in the Norfolk Va. area that you could furnish.Regarding myself going with the trip headed by Hanshi Koepple to Okinawa,I would love to go but it seems that Once again my military obligations will override my personal interest and desires. I just E-mailed Sensei Batey and notified him that I have gotten in contact with you, and that you said hello and were wondering how he was doing.I also passed your address off to him..If you desire to get in contact directly with Sensei Batey he can be reached at http://epds.com.I'm sure if nothing else you might find the site interesting.Once again Sir,I appreciate you getting back in contact with me ,especially directly!! I look forward to hearing from you Sir,and the USAKF.

Dear Hanshi, Thank you for your response. Actually, I follow the lineage of Master Suzuki. I have been studying Master Hironori Ohtsuka's system through Suzuki's lineage for ten years. I am a member of the AAU and USANKF and competed in both nationals last year. I was 18 last year and made the finals in the AAU but lost a good fight to George Kotaka, whom you may have heard of. I am very interested in more about your tournaments and your association and your events. I am a good competitor and feel I have some potential. Thank you again for your response! Eric Masino (Nidan)

January 29, 1997

Rumors passing around allude that:

Tokey Hill and Jimmy Blann got their way paid to South Africa as Coaches to the US Team. Now that event is over, Ridgely Abele has been asked to be the Head Coach.

With John Fonseca winning a long sought medal in kumite, who claims to be his teacher, Jimmy Blann, or John DiPasquale? - Furthermore, who was his coach in South Africa? Hill?

Is it true that Minobu Miki has been asked to head the Referee's program of the AAU Karate replacing Bob Allen and/or Del Saito-- it is alleged that Allen, has fled to the USANKF. But where does that leave Alex Sternberg? How many Chief Referee can they have?

It is alleged that the USANKF operations in NY leave something to the imagination, or at least that is what is coming out after their year end reports were studied by Tom Lapuppet. It was alleged that they had apparently posted a grand total of about 35 paid members. Huh?

Does anyone know why Don Coslet closed his operation in Austin?

Is it true that joining the Shito-ryu gives one a competitive advantage? What happened to the Shotokan.

January 27, 1997

The National Meeting of the USA Karate Federation have been successfully completed and the results are posted on tfa.sch.reports.html. Great strides were made in upgrading the USAKF to meet current opportunities., including redesigned registration and enrollment procedures. Date for the Nationals will be 2-3 August 1997. Akron, Ohio. The exact schedules will be found on the Schedule Page. There will be a division for Okinawan kata at this tournament.

1/19/97 We have receive this note. Comments: Does the USAKF hold a priority standing with the Olympic Committee to be the organization to bring Karate into the Olympics. What problems within the USAKF caused a former officer to part company and begin his own organization. Email: mccammon@jade.ncat.edu

Our answers:---The NGB is the USANKF , but we still have good connections with the USOC.---Don't underestimate the thirst for personal power. The break off was strictly a power move to take over the National Olympic Representative and to impose their particular views on the karate of the USAKF. After the exhaustive and expensive fight to enter the Pan American Games, the USAKF just simply did not have the money to continue the legal battle to win our point. The other side did. We let the thing go by default because we just simply did not have the huge sums that sports litigation takes, and we did not have free attorneys.The group in Seattle, in the opinion of many, did not approve of American Karate as it was and thought many of the group were trash. It appears that the preference was to a particular kind of karate and big money and the move to oust us was simply a move to gain dominance and to impose the values of that group on the USA. They will never do is as there is just too much Okinawan and other Karate alive and well in the US. For a complete background answer to your question, you can reference the lengthy excerpt from a article reproduced in Adobe Acrobat PDF form on the USAKF page.