I welcome all e-mail and will answer everyone in as timely a manner as possible. Don't be surprised if you find (or don't find) your message in this section. However, if you are concerned about your letter finding its way into the "Mailbag", simply include in the header or at the beginning of message "personal" and I will honor your request. GEM

Dojo Updates and other nice news!

George,

Please note that today's workout was exceptionally good. You and Paul did a great job covering all Kata's and various material at high level of understanding and with much critiquing and attention to detail.

As i was fortunately able to physically participate in all the material, including working with you without padding in an enjoyable level of control without sacrifice of the drills.

Possibly your recent trip to California and teaching of several groups brought your attention to detail up a little as you appeared to be "generally" more corrective and as you mentioned, without getting back to basic form from time to time, many of us do get very sloppy in our ways.

A very good and enjoyable class along with a very pleasant social hour. As i will surely try my best to get back as often as possible.

Thanks,

Gary Santaniello

Always a pleasure to have you in class Gary. In spite of your knee injury, you kept up with everything very well. See you at Camp! GEM

Mr. Mattson:

I tried to e-mail you from my work account , but never received a reply.

My 11 year old son is doing a project for his 5th Grade class, and his topic is the Uechi Ryu form of Karate, which he studies.

He is currently a Yellow Belt with two purple stripes

He wants to make a poster that has the phrase "Uechi-Ryu Karate Do" in Japanese lettering.

Can you help with this? and is there any other info you that might be useful.

Mitch Paine

Hi Mitch:

Sorry about the delay... Here is the calligraphy attachment for Uechi-ryu

Best, George

 ========================
Subject: RE: Class Project

Mr. Mattson:

My son will be interviewing his instructor Fred Channell during the classroom presentation.

He is sitting next to me right now, and thought asking you one question would add a lot of value to the presentation.

"What was it like to train under Kanei Uechi?"

Mitch Paine

GOD BLESS AMERICA

 ==================

Subject: RE: Class Project

A most memorable experience. Uechi sensei was a very beautiful person. Humble and extremely kind and helpful. He was always patient with me and always took the time to spend extra time with me whenever I asked him a question or asked him to check my kata.

His karate movements were extremely smooth and powerful. I have tried to pattern my Uechi-ryu after his techniques and applications of the style.

Good luck with the project.

Best, George

 ==================
Sensei Mattson:

Just a follow-up. My son Sawyer got an A on his school project. See you in June in Plymouth

Mitch Paine

GOD BLESS AMERICA

From: Manabu Mark Kimura 
Subject: My new class

Sensei Mattson,

I am pleased to tell you that I am going to have my own Uechi-Ryu karate class! I'm going to start teaching July 17 (Sat) at the Learning Light Foundation in Anaheim. The LLF is the largest metaphysical & holistic educational center in Southern California. I was very fortunate that it took less than a week for them to get back to me and offered their facility--thanks to that, I'll be able to teach for only optional donation to the foundation, so I'm hoping that a wide range of people will join the dojo.

I am a bit scared to start teaching when I'm still a first-degree black belt, but I heard many prominent teachers had to do it when they were younger too. (it's probably nothing compared to what you had to go through when you started teaching in the US.!) Plus, I'm more excited than scared!

The class description is here.

I'll keep you updated.
Manabu

Congratulations Manabu. . .

You are right about being scared. We all are, no matter what rank or skill level.
Being scared and doing what must be done is very much a part of what Uechi-ryu is all about.

Keep me posted about your progress and don’t hesitate asking for help.

Best,
George Mattson

Searching for a Dojo or Person

I’m looking for a friend of mine who is the brother of Ian Jenkins who attended your school. Can you let me know his email or pass mine along to him letting him know I’m looking for his brother Chris. Thank you.

Mark Hooshmand

Seminar News

From: Joan Neide
Subject: Sacramento

I just wanted to say thank you for your visit to California. As always, it was incredibly informative and your visits always inspire me to work harder and probe deeper into the meanings and training of Uechi.

I also apologize for not writing back immediately, but a few days after your left I was off to Tokyo and I have just returned.

Thank again,

Joan

Hi Joan:

Thanks for the note and for the kind words about my visit.
I really enjoyed myself as well. It is always a pleasure to work out with nice people.
Sue and I are busy preparing what should be a fantastic Camp. Hope you will be able to find a way to join us.
Best,
George

George:

I just wanted to again thank you for coming out west. The students were pretty pumped up before your visit, and after the workout they were not disappointed. As always, the seniors appreciated your willingness to share your insights and perspectives on nearly 50 years of Uechi training with us. As you note, we all came together. The patch on our gi didn't matter. All that did matter was that we all continued to share in a love for Uechi, and that we continue to practice our San Chins.

I will endeavor to keep my nose out of harms way until we next train together, but I doubt that I will be able to wait for your next visit before I go back to Renwood winery for a sample of their product.

Also, thanks to Susan for sharing you, and good luck with the move.

Peace
Robb

Thanks Robb. Always a pleasure working out with you and your dedicated students. GEM

Hello Mattson Sensei,


We had a great visit with David Mott and Bobbi Dahlman last month.

I posted some pictures of his classes on my website: http://www.threebattles.com/

All the best,

Ken Read

News from around the world!

George

Despite patiently waiting for prices to drop, I'm afraid that the costs of flights to Boston are just too expensive to make it over this year. For some reason, I understand that it's about twice the price of making the journey in the opposite direction. Which reminds me of the Irish guy, who when asked for directions pauses and says, "Well... if I were you. I wouldn't start from here". Anyway, I hope that camp goes well, I'm sure that it will. I know that I'll be missing a lot. Sorry that I won't be able to meet up with you and Susan this summer. But, who knows, maybe the flights will be cheaper a little later in the year. I'd certainly like to come over to train with you if possible at some stage. I'm working hard, together with my small group, but we're fairly isolated here, a good days journey each way from any other group, and it can be very difficult for people to stretch time and break other commitments.

I'm not sure what happens about my status as Scottish representative. Perhaps you could let me know?

Best wishes

Terry Donoghue

Hi Terry: You are still listed as our IUKF "rep" in Scottland Terry. Hope to see you soon. GEM

Dear Sensei George Mattson,

Hello my name is Rod Allan and I live in Melbourne, Australia. I am a karate enthusiast, and my main area of interest is the “root” of karate, or where karate came from and the martial arts that have influenced it’s development.

Recently I was fortunate to find your excellent Uechi-ryu Web-site, and have since purchased some of your videomag Dvd’s, Search for Shushiwa and your summer camp highlights And also Simon Lailey’s “suparinpei” study.

I must say I really enjoyed all the video presentations. Fascinating stuff, It’s the first time I have seen the famous Martial Arts of Fujian and Tiger boxing!

Then I found an old letter describing Mr. Lailey’s plans to write A book about Fujian Martial Arts and Zhou Zi He.

And wondered if this book and /or any publications Are available from Mr. Lailey?

Is it possible to contact Master Simon Lailey, through your Web-site?

Any information would be much appreciated.

Thank you and keep up the great work.

-Sincerely

Rod Allan, Melbourne, Australia

Hi Rod: I haven't heard from Simon in  awhile. He checks watches our website though and might contact us after reading your letter. GEM
 

George in recent elections on Okinawa Kosuke Yonamine was voted in as president of Okikukai. During our stay there he was instrumental in taking charge of the training schedules for the women. He was very helpful and active. It does not appear that his stroke had slowed him down much. It is good to see that the leadership is coming up with progressive ideas. Hopefully we will see changes in the years coming. Below is an address made by Yonamine sensei and sent out via Okikukai website. Steve

To all members of OKIKUKAI



I am very proud of your discipline Okinawa karate very ardently. I, Kosuke Yonamine am assigned as the 4th president of Okinawa karatedo association. My duty as president is for 2 years. First president was Mr. Ryuko Tomoyose, 2nd, Tsutomu Nakahodo, 3rd, Hiroshi Inada. OKIKUKAI was established with the purpose of discipline, inherit the great Okinawan heritage karate to next generation and through discipline of karate, we should improve our body and spirit. OKIKUKAI was established on 1st/April,1989 with dissolving the former UECHI-RYU KARATEDO ASSOCIATION

To act for sudden internationalization, We decided to name our association including 2 prominent keyword OKINAWA and KARATE in the name of our association which is recognized internationally, OKINAWA equal KARATE, KARATE equal OKINAWA and at the same time we determined to utilize our organization succeeding and expanding OKINAWA KARATE to the world and next generation.

My first aim as president is to settle regulation (now we have no English regulation) before long and to operate the organization based on the regulation, second, we wish to hold OKIKUKAI international branch manager,s congress at OKINAWA every 2 or 4 years on that congress, we exchange information, hearing the overseas branch,s opinion for organization operation, study of KATA and establish consensus which will help our good relations in the organization

We plan to utilize the HOME PAGE for informing new information to all over the world then, if you have opinion, information, please utilize HOME PAGE more.

We always welcome your visit to OKINAWA, Please try to participate the Children,s tournament (JULY), adult tournament (AUG) and All OKINAWAN KARATEDO tournament (Nov or DEC) and I wish to give young OKINAWAN karateka opportunity to visit your country as errantly so we wish your kind cooperation in that time

I hope all of you and your familles good health and good luck

Jun. 20th 2004

President of Okinawa Karatedo Association

Kosuke Yonamine karatedo 9th Dan Ryukyu Kobu-Do 8th Dan

Congratulations Yonamine, Sensei.
Good luck to you and the Okinawan Karate do Association. I hope that you are very successful in all that you wish to accomplish during your term in office. GEM

May.16th,2004 Dan promotional testing has held at Head quarters in Okinawa,Japan.

Result/Successful candidates, over 5th Dan

Hanshi 10th Dan **** Hiroshi Inada

Hanshi10th Dan *** Tsutomu Nakahodo

Hanshi9th Dan **** Nobuhide Asato

Kyoshi 8th Dan **** Takao Sakiyama

5th Dan **** Hideki Miyasato
 

Congratulations to all . GEM

Hi Mr. Mattson,
Good to hear from you. Sensei Higa's phone number is 609-893-0532. I can't remember the exact street address, but I will get it for you. Sensei's Higa's e-mail address is ***** It still amazes me that I found him. I had it in my mind to find someone who would train me as I was trained in Okinawa and sure enough I found him. I feel very privileged and honored to have him as my teacher! He not only teaches Uechi-ryu but the history and philosophy of Okinawan Karate. And he says to truly understand Uechi-ryu, you must understand Okinawan people and I believe it.

Take Care Mike

Thank you! Mike

Please say hello to him for me and give him my very best regards. I'm not sure if I've ever met him, but I would enjoy meeting him someday soon. Perhaps you could bring him to our SummerFest this year. (July 30 - Aug 1st) Best, George

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

We are all a bunch of bookworms. But the first book Sensei Higa wanted me to read was your book. So I know he thinks very highly of you! I will give him your regards. I'm sure he would like to meet you also.

I will also tell him about the Summerfest.

Mike

SummerFest News!

Sensei Mattson:

Brian Hutchinson here from Dave Hunt's dojo. Sorry for contacting you so late, but I have been on vacation and unable to get to this sooner. I and one other black belt from our dojo are looking to come to camp this year. While we realize we have missed the deadline, we hope you can show us a grace period and extend your early bird pricing to July 1st. To add insult to that injury, we are wondering if, as in other years, there is any special pricing being extended to Canadians.

If I hear from you soon (and the news is good), I will try to put the registrations together and fax them to you by July 1st.

Thanks,
Brian Hutchinson

Always happy to hear from you Brian. I just received an email from Joanne and David Hunt, who reports that David is doing very well following his very difficult year dealing with health issues.

Susan and I are always pleased to help out the Canadians with the SummerFest fees. The Canadian dollar is still down quite a lot, which makes it very expensive when converting to US Dollars. In spite of the dollar difference, this year we have over 30 pre registered Canadians scheduled to attend camp. Best attendance in many years. GEM

Hi George

I just wanted to know what the times would be for the Junior Day on the Summer Fest - on Saturday - what time to be there and what time it will end -

Thanks for your reply

Laurie

JuniorFest will be held all day Saturday, July 31st from 9am - 6pm. So far we have about 30 kids sponsored by various businesses and organizations. JuniorFest will be lead by a group of certified Uechi-ryu instructors who promise to keep things interesting and exciting. GEM

Subject: Testing at Summer Camp
Dear Sensei.

There is a former student of Sensei Maloney who received his black belt from Sensei Maloney around the mid-70's.living here in B.C. In fact he received his promotion right after Duncan the eighth degree from Truro.

He was working for Corrections Canada and kept practicing his kata's and last year I hired him to teach a Peace Officer's course here in B.C. His Kata's and Bunkis are very good and I was wondering if he went to the summer camp would you look at his Uechi-Ryu and grade him as to where he is now and set up a future testing program. Sensei Maloney is now working out of B.C. and not in a position to test him. If you agree I will let him know and he will correspond with you.

Stuart Killen

Hi Stuart: Good to hear from you. I hope everything is going well with you. We do have special testing at the camp for people who are unable to be tested elsewhere. Please have him contact me and I'll see what can be done. Will you be coming this year?? Best, George

 =============================

Thanks Sensei

John will be in touch with you shortly.

I am planning to go to summer camp because I will be on my way to South America and planned to stop in say Hello to to old gang. Stuart -----
 ===================================

Hello Sensei,

Stuart Killen suggested I contact you directly in regard to Summer Camp this year. I studied in Halifax with Sensei Maloney and was tested by you for Black Belt in Nov/75. It's hard to believe it was that long ago.

Duncan Macleod and I started a Uechi school in Cape Breton. I moved to B.C. in '81 and have stayed in good shape. After all these years, I've decided I'd like to get tested, if possible. I'm interested in doing some teaching and don't feel I'd have a lot of credibility as a Shodan.

I'd appreciate any information you can provide about Summer Camp - dates, location, etc. I live In Vancouver so there is considerable travel involved and I need to plan well ahead.

Respectfully, John Waye

George,

Thanks very much for the invitation. I will certainly attend the Summerfest and will be more than glad to do a seminar. I have been doing them over the past several months and it has been going well. What I do is teach a kata that is not generally known (I have been using Kyan Basai a lot), then tying it into the historical part of the book showing how kata has evolved and the art has become the way then following up with a discussion of the book. I can do something like that if you like or something else if you would rather- kata from Goju, Shito, Shotokan, Wado, Ryue Ryu, (or things like Haku Cho, Nipaipo) bunkai, weapons, juijutsu, jo. Please let me know what you would like. If it's a go, I'll make the reservations immediately.

Looking forward to meeting you.

Thanks again Robert Hunt

The book is doing well. A new publisher heard about it and picked it up with the intention to put some bigger promotion behind it.

Hi George....I got your postcard and would love to come. If I could do the same thing I've done the last couple of years that would be great. Teach push hands, people seem to enjoy it, and stay at my folks on the Cape, and bring my own food. Probably the best I can do is to come Friday and Saturday. It does sound like a great camp, can't wait. My love to Susan.

Brooks Bowen

Hi George,

I just wanted to thank you for the notification of Summerfest, and let you know that I'll certainly be there. I still have to catch up with Ronzoni to figure out which days, which hotel, etc., but a lot of us in NY are looking forward to it.

Otherwise, all is well here. Having been unable to generate sufficient interest from suburban adults to start a karate class here, I've gotten my local rec center to agree to try to start a children's program. That'll make it trickier to figure out when to fit in my own workout, but my eldest son is turning 6 Saturday, and I want it to be available to him if he wants it.

I hope everything is well with you. Please send my love to Susan.

Warmest regards, Jay Jay Nussbaum

Hi George

I hope you are well

Great news letter as always It is nice to keep everyone (including me) in the loop

Let me know what you need of me and I'll be there

Say Hello to Susan for me

I'll see you soon

All the best

Mark Gibson

HI George,

How are you? I have been working most Saturday's over the past year. I think I will have this Saturday off and I was wondering if you will be teaching at the Hut This week. I meant to reply to the message you sent out about including the ground fighting in the tests for advanced ranks. I think it's a great idea and wholeheartedly support it.

About 12 years ago I developed a street to ground kumite and I would like to discuss this with you sometime. I call it ju-kumite and there are a few dojo's out there who are practicing it. It will compliment the traditional stand up fighting of Uechi and the grappling being considered. I have been teaching some of it at summer camp when I do my self-defense classes.

There are members of the Army Special Forces unit in Rhode Island who are also working with it. Also do you have I.U.K.F. patches? Can you bring some with you Saturday.

Bruce Witherall

Perhaps you can teach that drill at camp this year Bruce. GEM

Tournament News and Comments!

Subject: Re: World Championships 2004

Just wanted to let you know that we enjoyed your World Championship competition. It was worth the 14 plus hour drive from Michigan. Our daughter (Dakota Trinka) was especially excited to meet you, and her Sensei (Rick Lambert) is hanging the photo of you and her in the dojo. I appreciate all the effort it takes to put an event like this together and just wanted to say "Thank You". Have a wonderful summer and maybe we will see you again next year.

Sincerely,

Davie
Thank you very much for the kind letter. Please give my regards to everyone. Hope to see your group at SummerFest this year. We have a great time and the instruction is fantastic.

Best,

George E. Mattson
http://uechi-ryu.com

Here are some pictures from the tournament on Sunday. Hope you enjoy them!

Michelle

Point - Counter Point!

Subject: Re: [uechi-ryu] May Uechi-ryu Newsletter

Good letter, George.

Some of the items relate to issues discussed on my forum, thus this response:

[quote]This month I wish to focus a little on how foolish it is to expect that any average martial artist will somehow become a warrior, immune from extra ordinary, conventional or even casual types of attacks because of any training you may have taken or currently are taking.[/quote]

This is true. What I have always found ridiculous is how some of us are so fond of equating themselves to "warrior status"..

[quote]I began a bit of a hailstorm when suggesting that average people in average situations are acting in a paranoid manner by going through life believing they should be training and acting like a Navy Seal on patrol while taking the family to a movie. Notice I said "acting in a paranoiac manner.[/quote]

True. The ones, who do act this paranoia, are sick people with a medical condition, and they need proper intervention. However, I am not aware of any in our group.

[quote] little is being directed towards the short and long term affects of focused, scenario training where the trainee constantly visualize danger, attackers and weapon attacks on their person.[/quote]

True. The key is everything in moderation.

The wholesome student, as most of our Uechi practitioners, would get quickly bored with this type of training.

Van Canna

Thanks Van.

You raise all good points that should be part of a good Uechi dojo. GEM

Sensei,

I continue to enjoy your monthly newsletter and hope you had a pleasant winter in Florida.

One comment on the May newsletter: Although I agree with your point of "average people in average situations acting in a paranoid manner going through life believing they should be training and acting like a navy Seal on patrol........." I would like to offer a personal experience which shows a balance between patrolling and awareness.

While walking in Saint Marrtin's one night on the way to a restaurant with my wife and although I was "not on patrol" I became alerted to a potentially dangerous situation. First, my senses were heightened simply by the environment we had placed ourselves in (I had parked several blocks from the restaurant and had we had to walk through unfamiliar neighborhoods) looking ahead there were several men hidden by the side of the road we were walking on. Whether they were waiting to pounce on us or not I don't know but I immediately crossed the street with my wife avoiding any possibility of conflict. I feel my Uechi training heightens my awareness to such dangers WITHOUT being "on patrol."

Best Regards, Norm

Subject: [uechi-ryu] May Uechi-ryu Newsletter
Date: Fri, 23 Apr 2004 01:36:53 -0000

Thanks a lot for this months newsletter, and now that i think about the question" why do i train" is actually a good question. i think that i train cause i love karate and everything that i have gotten out of it in my years and all the people i have met. It also gives me a chance to relax even though it is hard to relax while sweating but moushin is the best form for relaxation. Well thanks again for the newsletter and i can't wait till next months issue.

Ryan Geldart

Subject: May newsletter

George,

I think your May newsletter essay was masterful. Good work!

 George Donahue

Why thank you George. Coming from you, I take the compliment as something very special.

I hope you will be able to join us for the full SummerFest this year... July 30 - Aug 1st. There should be some way you can write the time off as a business expense. :)

Best, GEM

Looking for a Dojo or Instructor!

Hello,

I would like to know if you personally, offer instruction, in the Boston/surrounding areas?

(If not, would you recommend someone?)

I have been doing some research online & your name appears repeatedly in positive opinion.

Thank you for your time.

Best Regards,

T. Baker

Hi:

I teach a new student program at the “Hut” in Newton Center, MA on Saturday mornings at 9am – 10am. I also teach private lessons.

You might be interested in attending our “SummerFest” (July 30 – Aug 1) as part of our “Healing Arts” program. Check http://www.uechi-ryu.com/summerfest/ for information about this event.

Best,
George Mattson

 Subject: RE:Charlotte NC Region

I have enjoyed the philosophies and mindsets of you and those you quote in the newsletters. Please direct me toward a contact in the Charlotte-Gastonia local area for a Uechi-Ryu dojo.

Thank you,

SEAN HARRINGTON

Hi Sean:

Please check http://uechi-ryu.com/oldsite/dojolist.htm for our dojo listing.

You can also post to the "Looking for a dojo/instructor" forum. Lots of teachers have small clubs but don't advertise.

Thanks for writing and good luck with your search. You might consider attending our SummerFest... Three full days and nights of training.

Best, George Mattson

 Subject: Any Dojos in Spain?

Hello Sensei,

I am going to be in Spain for a few weeks in May and was wondering if there are any Uechi-Ryu Dojos there? I will be in Barcelona so anything close would be great. I think it would be a unique experience. Any help is greatly appreciated.

Thank You Jim Lee

Hi Jim:

I recommend you post something on the "searching for dojo/instructor" Forum. Lots of people post and read the posts who might be of some help.

Best, George

General Questions!

Dear Mr. Mattson,

I recently purchased your _Uechi Ryu Karate Do_ book and Alan Dollar's _Secrets. . ._ book, and I am wondering whether there is content in your earlier _Way of Karate_ book that is not in either of these others. I would expect that your later _Uechi Ryu_ book would include the earlier book's content, but I just wanted to be sure.

Best,

Brian Malley, Ph.D.

All three of my books contain different subject material. I tried to focus on material that was important to the era when the books were written. My first book concerned the more "spiritual" nature of the martial arts. In the early 60s, this seemed to be what made the martial arts unique in the fighting arts. My second book concerned the Uechi system as defined by Tomoyose and Uechi Senseis. My third book presented many of my personal discoveries and teaching techniques. My last book, which is almost completed, will be released on my 50th anniversary in Uechi-ryu. I'm hoping that a chapter will be devoted to the unification of the styles many organizations into what Tomoyose sensei describes as the "Uechi family of organizations". GEM

Dear sir George Mattson

Nice to hear from you ,it makes lots of interesting to know and learn something about from Uechi-ryu .com, i do shotokan training here in Nepal, do Uechi-ryu have weapon kata if yes let me know

yours truly Bikram Thapa Kathmandu,Kopundole- Nepal
 =====================================
Dear G.E. Mattson 

Oss!
Shotokan Friends here Nice to visit Uechi-ryu Home page .
it is very pleasure to know something about Uechi-ryu ,let me know more about Uechi-ryu

your friends from nepal
yours truly
Bikram Thapa Kathmandu,Kopundole-
Nepal
 

Thanks for the note. Lots of information about Uechi-ryu on the Uechi-ryu.com site.
If you have any specific questions, please feel free to write and ask.
Best,
George Mattson

Hi George,

I was watching the tape that you sent me last year (#17) and was puzzled by your Sanchin demonstrations. You did the wauke block-thrusts two ways: The "new student" method had your blocking hand do its move while the other hand remained in place until it was drawn back for its part of the double thrust. The "advanced student" method had your blocking hand do its move while the other hand did a check block before being drawn back to thrust.

What ever happened to the "old" method, where the non blocking arm is placed across the chest with fingertips touching the elbow of the blocking arm while it blocks?That's the way Mr. Uechi does it in the book and that's the way it's demonstrated in the Black Belt Test Guide.

I've been doing the "advanced student" Wauke block since I can remember. Indeed, in most of the katas, when a Wauke block is indicated, I do a check block with the passive hand, followed by a small circular block..... but not in Sanchin.

Please elaborate.

By the way, the breathing instructions were great.

Hope you and Sue had a nice visit to Florida. You picked a good time to go; the weather here was not so great.

Art Albert

Dear Sir or mam.,
My name is Hannah Anderson, and I am doing a project for school on martial arts in china. I was wondering if you could give my a little general information on martial arts, as well as information you might have on the weapons they use, some of there traditions, the schools of martial arts they have, the process they use, and there lifestyle. If you have any of this information could you please send it to the mailing information at the top of this letter or e-mail it to r******. Thank you very much for your time.

Sincerely,
Hannah Anderson

If anyone is interested in helping out, please send me an email and I'll forward Hannah's information to you. GEM

George, I've been studying martial arts with James R. Gaines for about 26 years. He studied on Okinawa under Uechi in the late 60's while a marine. I am doing some research on the weapons. Jim says there are 18 tradtional weapons. I've got 17 and Jim said the 17th was a "wooden yarn spool". I need to find out the Okinawan name of this weapon, if you would be so kind as to help me. Thank you very much.

Tim Prodyma
Hakutsuru Kai

Dear Mr.Mattson,

My name is Simon Leung, and I hope you can excuse my forwardness in asking what may be a rather trivial question.

Whilst doing research on Bruce Lee locations in Hong Kong, where I reside, for a forthcoming hiking expedition, my curiosity was piqued when I was looking through my collection of photographs, when I came across a few which I knew of course weren't in HK, but nonetheless had me intrigued enough to look further.

I did some research on those pictures (attached), and despite limited resources - all I had was the banner in the background of one picture and it's logo - I think the pictures were taken at your Karate Academy in the late 60s.

Do you recall if this was the case? I have numerous books on the martial arts and Bruce Lee, and whilst there's many similiar pictures taken at the Academy, there's no reference at all as to where and when they were taken, or why.

From what I have gathered, you and Lee were at the Long Beach Int. Tournaments in 1964 also. But despite numerous other search methods, I can't seem to find any other mention of yourself and Lee, and other connections ie, the Academy of Karate pictures.

I'm not sure if I'm being more than presumptuous and have contacted you unnecessarily, but if you can assist in any way, in this strange request, I would be most grateful.

Not to keep you longer than necessary, I'll close for now. And apologies if I've taken a wrong route with my curiosity.

Regards, and best wishes,

Simon Leung

Those pictures were taken during Bruce Lee's visits to my Boston dojo during promotion of his films and TV series. I met Bruce for the first time in Chicago in 1963 during a lunch meeting with the senior instructors attending the first "world Karate Tournament". GEM

Subject: degrees in martial arts

Dear Mr Matson:

Are there any coleges offering degrees in martial arts that are accredited? In the US? By distance abroad?

Sincerely,

Sid Rubinfeld Eedan-WTF

I believe at this time there are no accredited college degrees in the martial arts. There have been unsuccessful attempts, but I don't believe any have succeeded.

Best Regards, George Mattson

Hello,

I am impressed and interested in Robert Mattson's artwork. Where can I get in touch with him? Is he in the Boston area? Also, is there an online bio for him? I'd love to find out more about this artist.

Thank you, GMZ

Robert has retired from his regular job and is now painting full time in Vermont. GEM

Responses from Previous MailBag Entries

Thanks Sensei, I appreciate your timely reply, I devoured both the books when I was growing up just to get a taste of Okinawan Karate. I'm repacing them as they and all my collection that was lost a year ago books,tapes, notes....long story. Briefly, I've been training almost 30 years in Goju with time in Okinawa and was a Policeman for close to 15 years, so lot's of pratical experience. Two dojo's with approx. 80 students located in rural settings, teaching traditional Okinawan karate emphasis on Sanchin Kata,Kihon,kata, Kumite(as in 2 person drills) I hope to keep corresponding with you and perhaps asking your advice once in a while about our dojo and karate.

Bye for now Sensei.
BLUE DRAGON MARTIAL ARTS Sensei Philip Allain, 5th Dan
 

Dear Tom,

I read your message regarding Steve Wilson.

The individual that wrote to Mattson Sensei a few years ago is no the same Steve Wilson that you mentioned.

The poster is a very well respected Goju-ryu practitioner and friend that is in his 40's.

The Sensei Wilson that I now refer to ran a dojo out of Ventura and moved to Colorado a few years ago.

He still trains and teaches Goju karate in the Denver area.

Best regards,

Mike DeDonato Los Angeles

Hi George,

What a surprise today when I looked on your website in the June mailbag section and noticed the photos. Those were taken at my going away party in 1977 at the end of my first tour on Okinawa. I had also just passed my Nidan test a few days earlier. Master Uechi called for a special test because I was leaving earlier than expected. The Marine Corps wouldn't extend my tour. That young lady sitting next to me was my girlfriend and I'm proud to announce she's now my wife of over 26 years. The rest of the people in the photo were other students from the Futenma dojo.

Please send me Anthony's email address so I can thank him for finding those photos. What a treat!

Jerry

 

Nice Things Happening to Good People!

Chad graduated from St. Christopher's lower school last week (Thursday, June 3rd).

I took some pictures with my new digital camera. I selected a handful, and downsized them to 20%. They are available in higher resolution (5 times) if one (or all) of them strike you. But with my AOL filesize limitations, I'd have to write on CD and send.

Enjoy!

- Bill

Congratulations Chad! GEM

Congratulations to Gary Khoury who made the cover of a major martial art's magazine. I believe Gary's "life partner" Cindy expresses best, the kind of person Gary is and why he deserved the honor. GEM

I can't help but share my "comments" about Gary...no matter how biased they may seem coming from his fiance. All who know him would most likely agree with my praise and admiration!

For 6 years, I've seen Gary Khoury's colorful spectrum of emotion and action. Together we've endured relationship disaster, financial difficulty, and physical weakness that occurs from living life inappropriately at times. Ironically, through these humbling experiences, I have accumulated much pride and love for life and its lessons, and I've grown to enormously love my partner Gary for his many admirable qualities and characteristics through it all!

In business, he is a man who never gives up. His perseverance is endless and contagious. While sitting in the seats next to parents of the Karate children, I hear and have participated in the following conversations: "My FIVE children have literally grown up here! This is their second home..." - the Gilligan's "I can feel the positive energy when I walk in these doors!" - Mr. McDougall And from a mother who's husband unexpectedly passed away (she has one 7 yr. old daughter): "We will never stop coming here. My daughter loves her Karate. Seeing her happy, seeing Gary and the instructors happy, it makes me happy. Being here is a much needed part of our life."

He gives of his free time to teach in the public schools. When we're out to dinner or shopping, kids are always pulling on his arm, wanting to say hello. And unbelievably, he knows the names of them all and can tell me stories about them!

Gary is also a "Poppy". That is what our 9 yr. old son calls him. Gary has been the most natural father my son could ever have. Gary truly possesses a unique gift from God, a gift that allows him to feel what children feel. He has the ability to interact with children and teens on their emotional level, simultaneously blended with the superiority of being their Sensei. As a father, he is with Chaz every day, making his lunch, taking him to school, giving the daily tickle, and smothering kisses all over his little boy. No exaggerations!

Gary is my partner for my life. He loves me unconditionally. His patience, appreciation and protectiveness for me is something he demonstrates daily. He leaves me notes in my purse, makes me coffee, brings me ice cream, rubs my head...menial things that mean a lot, right girls?! I have seen his heart grow even bigger over the time that we've shared. His demonstrations of love are proof of that. I should publish the cards that he's written to me. Undoubtedly, they would be the greatest love story written.

His credit is much deserved! His life is full with blessing. He'll tell you, his mistakes are stepping stones to success. His bad days lead him to his best days. Through it all he has a partner, a son, and a dojo full of parents and students who love and admire him! We all see and feel his heart, because it is literally worn on his sleeve.

The dynamic life that Gary lives is something that he endeavors to share every day. I know, because I share it closer than anyone. It is my privilege to see him at his best and at his worst. No one else gets this privilege, and that is why I feel so compelled to write.

Gary's exemplary testimony as a businessman, a father, a partner and leader overflows with charity and goodness. I am proud to share (and agree) with others that this man is one of awesome character. My written proclamation of love and pride for him captures only a hint of what I feel in my heart. May I boldly speak for all who know him...We are all better people for having Gary be a part of our lives!

With much sincerity and love - Cindy

 

Changes and Updates to Note.

Just to let you all know. We have a new e-mail address. Had the computer updated and brought our browsing into the 21st Century. We have been off line for over two weeks getting moved into the new house. It feels great to be able to relax a little bit. Drop us a line when you have a chance and we promise we will respond as soon as possible. Love to you all.

Gerry & Jim
Gerry & Jim Robinson [jimger60@sjv.net]

Old Warrior Update!

George,

I don't know if you know Dan Ivan well. He is a friend of mine and, as I'm sure you know, is one of the original karate instructors in the US. He is in the hospital right now and about to have surgery for a broken vertebrae in his neck. The surgery is very serious and there is only a 50-50 chance that he will make it through. He is 74 years old and that, of course, complicates things. I thought you might be interested. I'll let you know what happens.

Robert Hunt

Although I don't know Dan personally, I do know of his outstanding martial art abilities. Please keep up posted. GEM

Hi everybody,

Now that I am back from vacation and settled in again, we are going to pursue the "on line" talk for cancer patients. At this point I have only notified a few myeloma people, patients or relatives, and bone marrow transplant patients. If you are interested in joining in I will be checking in this coming Wednesday, the 28th at 7PM. In order to join us you will need a mic and ear phones. If you do not have them, it is quite simple, go to Radio Shack, they are very cheap and they just plug into your computer.

If you go to this site,,,,,Uechi-ryu-com/dodger/ it will give you instructions on how to get to the talk site. Once we get past all this I hope to have a meeting every week at the same time. We won't put a time limit on anything for now, if one wants to come in and ask or answer questions that's fine. I will have more people join us as we get more familiar using the site. Most will be myeloma patients/relatives, and we will hold down the number of invited guest so it does not become too congested. I have been involved in a telephone "round table" for the past 11 weeks, last meeting is Tuesday.

Even though I have seen just about all the treatment, over 8 years of it, I still learned a lot, lots of new things going on. It can be very beneficial to share not only treatments but also feelings and questions that one may only get answers to from people wearing the same shoes. PLEASE,,don't be backward about joining us. If you don't want to continue the visit, just zip! and leave.

Give the above site a look and follow the instructions to get to the talk site. Then get set up and hope to hear from you Wednesday, just for a trial. Once again I want to thank my friend George Mattson for donating this time at the site. I can only say that his friendship has been very dear to me, he and Susan have been so supportive over the years. T

hey are once again offering their help by letting us use their facilities. It gives us a rare opportunity to communicate with others who are going through the same hell that myeloma puts us through. My best regards to all, hope you are all feeling GOOD.

Bill Bauknecht

See you next month

GEM

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