May, 2002 Mailbag

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California Seminar:

George,

It was a pleasure to see you once again in Sacramento. I enjoyed the seminar as did my student who attended.

It was very kind of Joan and Robb to extend invitations to all of us. We enjoy "cross-organizational" communication and support here in California. It works out very well.

My wife's family is from Massachusetts. One of these years I hope to talk her into a vacation to the East. She can visit family and I'll sneak out to train.........

Steve
             =============================

Sensei,

I just wanted to thank you for taking the time to come to California and for passing along so much of your experience to us. The longer I'm in Uechi, the more differently I look at what I hear and see from seniors. I suppose that's the effects of body changes and temperament changes, but your message is taken to heart. I've always taken pride in telling students that to do Uechi, you need to be smart. 

We needed to look at our practice and analyze; we weren't just spoon-fed a lot of "moves" to make to counter opponents moves. Your message just strengthens that idea in me. Practice smartly and we are not only more effective, but we'll be able to practice for a lifetime. Unfortunately I think that's where a lot of people miss the boat on what we've got to offer; they don't get it that it can be a lifetime thing when done properly. So, thanks again for re-enforcing these concepts and for helping me polish up my Uechi.

Valerie and I are looking hard at the possibility of coming out for summer camp. A lot depends on how my new staff works out. 

Thanks too for the T-Shirt. It's an interesting graphic. I've always enjoyed simple line art like that; I think it takes me back to my stick-figure drawing days. 

Best wishes, Don U.
 ===========================
George,

Hope you had a good trip home.

I totally enjoyed the morning workout, and learned quite a few things. I will base my future workout on the concept that you conveyed.

I must apologize and I also regard that I could not stay for the afternoon session. I promised my wife that Leo would be home early to do his home work which included a project assignment that is due this coming week. 

It was either giving Leo the opportunity to meet you, or for myself to attend the sessions for the entire day, I think I made the right decision. Now he knows who my "real" Sensei is because he asked many times. I think that is very important because I want him to think of Uechi-ryu as a life long practice as I do.

Thank you again. In two more years you won't be able to keep me out of your Massachusetts summer camps ------

Henry Thom 
 ==============================
Hi Steve, Don, Joan, Rob, Dave, Olga, Henry, Alan and all my good friends in California :

Just got home after a grueling "red eye" flight!

Got up early though, so I will be back on EST tomorrow for my early morning golf match! (Full contact!) :)

I really appreciate your kind words about the classes. If Uechi-ryu is to survive, the seniors must keep an open mind and teach "smart". We are on this earth for such a short time, it is essential that everything we do contributes to the *quality* of life. 

Hope you and Valerie will be able to attend camp this year. I promise you three days and evening of fantastic Martial Arts and fun.

Best, George

Koshukai California 2002:

Hello Everyone,

I would first like to thank all of you who have already sent in your Koshukai registration form and fee. It helps greatly! I now have a few final details for Koshukai California 2002.

First is that the days of training have changed slightly. Koshukai will begin on Tuesday June 18 instead of Monday the 17th. Wednesday is no longer an open day. Training will be conducted Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. All times and events remain the same! Use Monday for your sightseeing and shopping day and get ready for five straight days of karate glory!

Secondly, I regret to inform everyone that we will not be able to offer colored belt training. The training sessions will be for black belt and brown belt level ability, as originally designed.

I ask everyone to please submit your registration forms and fees ASAP! All Koshukai details have been committed and paid for. Our entire dojo is working toward providing all of you the most memorable training and social experience. possible!

We look forward to seeing you soon!! Kyoshi Dollar

Sensei Mattson, A while ago I was reading about Sanchin strength on your web site discussions. I wanted to add something to it but cannot now find it. It would probably still be of interest so I have sent it to you.

San Chin strength is derived from the use of postural muscles to control force reactions to arm movements. By flexing both the ankle and the knee the soleus muscle in the deep calf is tensioned. Bending both the knee and the hip bring the rectus femoris, deep in the front of the thigh, into contraction. The bent hip and the straightened lower back pull up the Psoas muscle and the erectae spinae muscles on the mid to upper back. All these muscles are slow twitch endurance muscles normally used for walking but not much used for just standing. The calf and thigh are pinnate muscles that have chevron pattern muscle spindles and are able to deliver a disproportionate amount of force for their size. All of the Sanchin muscles are among the strongest muscles in the body. Of course in a good Sanchin lots of other muscles are also active. Sanchin is unique in that its posture simultaneous recruits them all to stabilize the body with their powerful contractions. With such a stable foundation all force developed in a blow will be applied at the point of attack and not whip back into the body to be dissipated within the muscles.

George Chaplin Uechi Ryu San Francisco. 

Okay. We heard from one guy about a midsummer contest.....How about this?

A show of hands please for a strongman/woman contest in middle August.

We are thinking about making a novice division so that we can bring in new talent. We also want to make the weights heavier and the distances less. More of a max strength contest than a weighted track meet. We are looking at Revere as a very probable location and there will be lots of room and a great surface to compete on. In order to move forward with this we need to know if there is interest. It will fall somewhere between the Central USA and Art's Fall Classic. I remember last year that I really could have used a local contest mid to late summer since I don't travel. Mostly it should be a fun contest and a hell of a cookout!

Let us know what you want to see for events. I would also like to hear what people think about weight classes. Many have expressed concern with the gap from 200-250. Perhaps the NASS system is best here.....

For the novice category, we will evaluate your experience level but for the most part it should be a first time contest. We intend to take the weights down to something reasonable. They have gotten pretty heavy and it is tough to get into contest starting from scratch at the present poundage.

Some events we have in mind (not all of them, of course): Log Max Farmers (walk or hold) Tire Arm-over-arm Hummer something or other....push-pull or something Heavy medly....HEAVY...stone,tire,superyoke Deadlift for reps (Mark Boyle just got excited) 3" Bar clean and press for max reps

PLEASE FORWARD THIS TO ANYONE YOU KNOW THAT MIGHT BE INTERESTED.

Bob Jodoin Total Performance Sports 305 Broadway Everett, MA 02149

www.totalperformancesports.com 1-617-387-5998 liftheavythings@totalperformancesports.com 

Thank you very much and I will be keeping in touch and letting you know how I am progressing. I will be buying all your books when I return to work. I am a Jry Lineman I work with the High Voltage Power Lines, at this time I work for San Diego Gas & Electric. I am one of eighty Lineman certified to work on the 500 kV lines while energized in the state of CA. I will return to work at my original position soon I hope. Again I can't thank you enough for taking time to reply to me. PS I saw you once when we came down from Halifax to a tournament in Boston many years ago. I look forward to start training again, in retrospect those were some of the better times in my life. Thanks again Thomas W Lane

Hi gem sensei ,

Still look at forums , but at the moment prefer to listen to others , also I do vanish from my own martial art circles from time to time, just my own way . started a new student on sanchin this year , hope he completes test and gains the experience offered but not always realized at the time

my own training as progressed by a constant input of uechi interest ,the great thing the forums offer to me is just to listen to other expressions of our style ,being human my own understandings go through change ,ups and downs etc, but my interest in uechi is from the three kata angle and to understand its process ,this is a concept that is under going change subject to input .

max. 

Good to hear from you Maxwell. We all have our approach to Uechi-ryu and life. Enjoy yours.

Stay in touch and looking forward to reading more of your life experiences on the forums.

Best, George

Robert's Invention Corner

Mr. Mattson,

I have an idea for relief of sinus congestion. I use TCM point GB20 as decongestant. There are two ways of doing this, first you can use a hand towel that is rolled up to approx. three inches in diameter. Place it on the opposite side of the congestion. Using it as a pillow. The weight of your head is enough pressure. The amount of time can be from one minute up. While you are laying down on your side, try to breath out your nose. If you need to sniff, do so. It well open. I have used this method for about two years. The second way is to use the medicine.

For the people who likes to work with their hands and want to make a sinus relief roll. I have attached an Engineering drawing.

I hope you find this helpful. For it has help me.


Sincerely

Charles Roberts 

Greetings: What is the actual height of the (Kimi) Jars? There is another site offering jars custom made to fit your hand from a outline of your hand with open fingers. Is this possible with the Jars that you sell? Thanks! Wolfgang

received your e-mail from george mattson the training jars can be custom made to any size the firings are in lots of 10 so a custom jar awaits the following order and would need as much specifics as possible in that your request must be understood completely custom glazing etc. at additional cost and the timing is aprox 4-6 weeks the height is aprox 19 in. weight aprox 14 lbs they are totally hand made and should support min 50 additional pounds each please feel free to send your specs to me and your order to george mattson 
thank you 

shelly dunn 

Aloha Sensei

FYI, there are no Uechi Ryu schools here in Hawaii. I had studied with Patrick Berry and Jack Summers in Brockton. I am now going to take up Goju Ryu being that it is the closet thing I can find to my beloved Uechi Ryu. Love your site.

Aloha Stephen

Hi Stephen: I know there are Uechi practitioners in Hawaii. Hopefully they will read this and contact me. I need an excuse to visit the Islands soon! GEM

Greetings Mattson Sensei,

I have been reviewing the Uechi-Ryu site and find it most welcoming. It was filled with the basic information that I needed to understand Uechi-Ryu a little better. My name is Jeffrey Teagle and I live in Cataula, GA (around 6 mile North of Columbus, GA). I have . . . formed my own dojo in Cataula (Karate for Life). I am currently operating under the auspices of Kimo Wall Sensei, 7th Dan (Kodokan). I have developed a very strong yearning to learn Uechi Ryu . . . . I am still a very strong karateka at heart but I feel my path may lay within another type of Okinawan system. I saw a few .mpeg movies on your site and they were strong and impressive to say the least. It appears initially that Uechi Ryu may be suited to my personal training needs and for my students. I am in the process of completing a traditional home dojo. I have also talked with Sensei Bruce Hirabayashi on the phone after finding that he lives in the Atlanta area (I am about 2 hours from him). We talked of the possibilities of working me into a Saturday class. Do you know Sensei Hirabayashi and would you recommend him for Uechi training? How would you relate Uechi Ryu with Goju-Ryu in it's effectiveness?


Respectfully, Jeffrey A. Teagle 

Hi Jeffrey:

Bruce is a fantastic teacher and individual. You are very fortunate to have someone with his ability and talent nearby. Stay in touch and let us know how you are doing with your Uechi-ryu. Oh yes, next time you see Kimo sensei, please give him my best regards. . . and ask him when we will be seeing him at camp again. GEM

Dear Mr. Mattson,

My name is Charles (Chuck) Stellberger. I live in Medway, MA. I found your site while searching the Internet for my mother's relatives named "MacCalmon." I believe Mr. Donald MacCalmon (my uncle) used to train with you. I recognized your book "The Way of Karate" from a long time ago when I was a boy. My parents had an autographed copy of the book given to them by Don. I am interested in learning more about your martial arts and wellness programs. I am trying to get myself in better physical shape. I look forward to a reply if you can spare the time. Thank you.

Sincerely, Chuck Stellberger 

Hi Chuck: Yes, Don MacCalmon was one of my first students. Haven't seen him in many years. Please say hello to him for me. GEM

Paris Uechi-ryu:

Hello Sensei!

I have just returned from Paris, City of Lights. It was lovely and I had the opportunity to train with Takemi Takayasu, 8th dan (see attached photo). The Uechika of France were very kind and the intense training left me melted into a puddle of sweat on the floor! Takemi Sensei sends his warmest greetings to you and had nothing but praise for your work as a pioneer in Uechi Ryu. As I travel I am always impressed by the camaraderie of Uechi folks around the world and how we really are an international martial art. Hope you are doing well and I will see you at the Hut soon!

Best regards, Deb Downing 

George,

I know you are busy but thought I'd share this with you. After reading all the posts about shoes vs. no shoes in the dojo perhaps you could post it on Bills roundtable discussion 'Shoes in the Dojo ' . I can't remember where I got it but have had this in my dojo for many years. 

Have a safe trip,

Steve 

Dear Sir 

My name is James Holcomb, I used to study Uechi-Ryu under Gary Neel in Elkhart, Indiana. And i made it to Yonkyu before I moved away. Now, I am trying to get back into it. But, there are no dojo's out here in 29 Palms, California. I was wondering if there are any instructions or lessons i am able to obtain from you of the katas from Kyukyu to Yonkyu. Or if you can assisst me and finding a dojo that can help me. If you need proof I can fax my certificates to you. It has been a few years but i know i can get back into it. 

Thanks for your help.

Hi James:

Lets try to find a dojo near you, first off. Perhaps someone who reads this will let us know who is in your area. Next, check out the Uechi store for a list of books and videos that can help you with your training. Good luck and stay in touch. GEM

Hello , 

Greetings from Bulgaria ! My name is Krasimir Wasilev. I am 41 years old and I am an editor of a self publish martial arts e-sine : http://www.martialarts.hit.bg . This is the only Bulgarian e-sine so far! Please, send me a notice concerning the conditions for us to publish some of your materials ( articles) in one of the next issues of our martial arts magazine. 

Remaining open for your offers I am wishing you health and good luck! 


Regards, 

Krasimir Wasilev 

Hi Krasimir:

You may reprint articles from our site. Please remember to credit the authors though. GEM

Dear Mattson Sensei, 

We received the books yesterday (April 15)....only one day after his birthday! Thanks so much! 

Jim was delighted with the books and the added inscription from you really touched him! Thanks for doing that! 

The books and tapes we have of Uechi are invaluable! As we don't have a dojo close by for him to study for Black belt. Eventually he will go back to Connecticut for black belt to his old friend Spencer Sensei. We travel from time to time to Gaithersburg to visit Lostritto Sensei, . . .  At any rate, my Husband was thrilled to have the books! His old copy of your book is literally falling apart! but he will not part with it! 

Thanks again, Sincerely; Carolyn Whitehead

Hello Mr. Mattson,

Among the rest of the problems of life, I have acquired a new one. I wish to open my dojo of Uechi-Ryu. I have been studying for just over 10 years and I currently hold the rank of Sandan. I have spoken to my sensai about it, . . . and he said it was fine with him and to go for it. 

The only problem is that I do not know how to go about the instruction. I would like to teach in a traditional way, rather than an Americanized way. Meaning, I would rather spend long periods of time teaching the class Sanchin rather than rush through in a week. Id also like to bring back the entirety of conditioning. Everything in the arms and legs, shins and abs, right down to fingertips and toes. 

I have a few friends in the martial arts and even my sensai said the same thing, that training that traditional is ideal and what all teachers want, but it will prove to have a higher drop out rate. I know most people here are very lazy and want to learn a lot in a short amount of time and get their black belts as soon as they can, but id really like to go for the quality and ethics behind Uechi. What do you think I should do? I figured the best person to ask would be the one who brought it here in the first place. Thank you for taking the time to read this. Sincerely,

. . .
Interesting dilemma. . . 

First off, there is no such thing as the "American" way vs the "Old" way. There is only good instruction vs bad instruction.

Determine what goals you wish to set for yourself and your students, then develop a work schedule based on your program.

Obviously, this is a quick answer. In the West, we have more concerns regarding liability and negligence that isn't an issue on Okinawa or Japan. Here, you better have a very good reason for doing something before deciding you will train your students in a certain way. 

Much of the body conditioning that is done is more American than Okinawan or Chinese. It evolved over time... especially when the Okinawans figured out that the Americans "needed" to be hit a lot in their training.

I've been trying to overcome this image for over 25 years.

There is a lot that goes into being a good teacher. Old vs new has very little to do with this.

Hope I was able to help you a little with your questions.

Best, George 

George,

Hello! Thank you for contacting me through e mail. Your sites are very interesting and valuable for martial artists. If you would, please take a look at my website as well and pass it on www.internalpower.net

I will be hosting a tournament called the TerraCotta Challenge on October 5th. The tournament is an open with events such as fighting, forms, and weapons. Awards for place winners are actual Terra Cotta soldiers shipped in from Xian, China. We have many special guests and it will be an incredible event. I want to invite you to come.

Have a great day and God bless you, 

James Sang Lee ---

Mr George Mattson Thank you for you e-mail and please keep me posted on your upcoming events and I will support as many events as possible. I really enjoy your Forums and thank you do a great job. Thanks again. 

Professor Ron Pierce Kajukenbo / Gung-Fu 

Dear Mr. Mattson,

I have just finished reading your book on Uechi Ryu Karte Do, and in the section discussing ten-point kumite you stated that there is actually an eleventh point, the take down, that you would gladly send if the reader wrote you. I would like the information on the eleventh point. I studied under Bill Kieth in South Florida, and I remember him teaching a take down in ten-point, but you gave a different description from what I learned.

My address is as follows:

Christopher J. Corey 
MCD (Marine Corps Detatchment)

Christopher:
There is basically one takedown. The attacker throws a left front kick, which is blocked with a left downward block. The kick is followed up with a right hook or straight punch to the face. Defender blocks, with a rising left block (which can also be a counterattack to the face). He then drops slightly, taking out the attacker's right leg and in the process, dropping the attacker to the ground. There are many variations of the takedown and counterattack. There may be some video clips on our site.

You might bring up the subject on our forums.

Best, George Mattson 
ps. are you working out with anyone?

We all seem to have a problem teaching uechi to tots, do you have any ideas or some links to help get a few ideas. as the dojo grows these children become a big part of the school..

Greg Brown Merced, Ca

This subject has been discussed in detail on our Forums. Please post your question on the "Business Marketing" forum and I'll get involved in the discussion.

Best, George 

Simple explanation Gord (wish all my email was so simple to answer):

Hi, 

my name is Gord Hill. We have communicated before: I asked about the video clips and the stone article illustrations. I am a first degree with Tsuruoka Canada. I am originally from Thunder Bay Ontario, and am currently living in Winnipeg Manitoba. 

I have studied from the age of ten almost any book on karate that i could find, especially kata. About ten years ago i became fascinated with sanchin. I guess it posed the greatest mystery to me. How could some of the greatest karateka speak of the most advanced kata being one that appears so simple. Yeah, right! I have invested a lot of time in this study, where most was focused on the Goju version. I loved the articles you had on your site back in 97-98, esp. the breathing method and conditioning ones. The thing is, i have been able to observe your kata through the internet, and i must say that i am impressed. They are very beautiful and efficient. 

I have noticed that there are variations of seisan. Maybe I'm mistaken, but in your book, the kata starts off with double nukite, then the ridge hands to the head region, yet there is another site, where the clip shows the kata start with three sanchin like movements, like seisan from goju or hangetsu, or just about any other style of seisan that i've come across. Am i mistaken? Thank you for your time. I love your site. 
Gord

There is a 'short' form Seisan and a 'long' forum. The long form begins with 3 Sanchin steps and arm moves, the short, with the circular temple strike with ridge hands.

Best, George ps. thanks for the kind words

Sensei, I was cruising the internet, seeing what I could find when I found this site: http://www.shihanboblong.com/sokeshipcouncil.htm On it, it lists you as.. "MATTSON, GEORGE E. - Founder Shohei Ryu Karate Do Brockton, Mass."

Isn't this incorrect? I thought Shohei Ryu was founded by a council of Uechi Ryu blackbelts who wanted to separate from the politics? I'm Just wondering. 

Thank you Sensei

-David 

Just goes to show that you can't believe everything you read!! :) GEM

Hello Mr. Mattson,

My fiancée recently gave me the new Uechi-Ryu Karate Do book for my birthday and I am very happy with the new information im getting from it. My question is regarding some of the photographs in the book primarily in the section of the opening exercises. During sokoto geri and shomen geri, the man in the photo is kicking very high, nearly neck height. It can be seen more clearly during Tenshin Zensoku Keri. During my 10 years of training, I was always taught to kick waist height and not much higher unless kicking to the lats with a roundhouse kick. It always seemed the higher you leg went to kick, the less power it would have, hence kicking waist height would be as strong as it was fast. Is this something I should consider adding to my training or even something I try to change?

Thank you for taking the time to read this,

JD Lauriat

Hi JD:

Kicks during exercises should be performed at different heights for stretching purposes. You are quite correct in stating that for self defense, best to keep the kicks below the waist.

Thanks for writing. Hope to see you and your dojo mates at the May Uechi Championships and Summer Camp in August. Check it out at http://www.uechi-ryu.com//gem1/gem2/gem8/ . Talk up the events at your dojo.... Hope to see you there.

Stay in touch. . .

Best, George Mattson

Answer to "Where are they now?"

Greetings. George, 

I hope you remember me. I was your student at the Newton dojo back in the 70's before we moved to the Boston dojo. My name was David Selby but since then I've restored the family name when my grandparents past away. My last name is now Zelbovitz. I was one of the "Honchos" at Newton as well as at 3 Hancock St. I made shodan in 1976 Cert. #1050. You gave me your black belt when I came in on the following Monday after the test. I remember your yellow Honda Goldwing. I was there when you challenged all the black belts at the Boston dojo to spar with you- no one accepted. I know of the story of you kicking an aggressor down a flight of stairs. I once attended your birthday celebration at your apt. with several other karataka. You personally worked with me on all eight kata and taught me many things that have served me well over my lifetime (I originally started Uechi-ryu in 1966 with Harry Brawly). 

I could go on and on. I've been enjoying your web site; it's excellent, I'm pleased things are going so well. I'm now 52 years old, married with children, and working as a licensed psychologist. I live in Lakeland, FL. The reason I'm writing is three-fold: 

1) I'm looking for an instructor, in my area that YOU would recommend. Someone who is organizationally connected to you. I'm ready to start working-out again. 

2) I would like the have my black belt cert. changed to reflect my name change (I still have the original). 

3) How do I become a regular member instead of a junior member on the web-site forums? I would really appreciate your attention in these matters. Thank-you for all your help. My address: . . .. Looking forward to your reply, and becoming actively involved once again in Uechi-Ryu. Sincerely, 

David 

 ==================

Hello Sensei (or should I say Hanshi?), Hope everything there is going well.

It feels good being back at Uechi, like being home again. The kata are coming back fairly quickly, I never stopped doing Sanchin. Being older now I have a back problem that I have to work around but not to worry. I remember a 2nd or 3rd degree black belt at the Boston dojo that only had one arm but fought like he had three. I'm pumped; the process of getting back in shape has begun. As soon as I can locate someone with a video cam, I'll send you Sanchin and Seisan, as well as anything else you request.

One of my positions is teaching counseling at Spurgeon Baptist Bible College. I've passed out a basic survey and have six returned already with a positive response to studying Uechi. Six other students have also expressed interest. Two things to note, 1) I've offered the lessons for free (these students can't afford much of anything). 2) Many of them are leaving the area to go home for the summer. The President of the college has given me a green light to use the student center to hold the class. We'll begin with whomever is around toward the end of May! Any non-student of the college interested in studying will be charged a fee.

George, as you know Florida is a wonderful place to live. I really hope you and Susan get to move down real soon. Lakeland is between Orlando and Tampa, just off of interstate 4, and about two hours from West Palm Bch. 

Please give my best regards to all, 

David Z

Good to hear from you David. Good luck with your new Uechi club.  Hope to see you and your students on my next Florida visit. GEM

 ====================

Mr. Mattson: 

This is Chester Holubecki. It has been a while since I have seen or have spoken to you. I am a student of Mr. Lewis Lizotte. Have been writing newsletters for over ten years to various Isshinryu practitioners every month on various issues and topics. I have come across your web page and am wondering if I can use some of the articles on your web page and give you and the author credit for the article. My dojo is located in Granby, Ma and my email is gma1heart@the-spa.com Looking forward to hearing from you.

Yours in the Martial Arts Chester Holubecki 

Hi Chester:

So good to hear from you after all these years. How is Lewis? Is he still teaching?

You should drop into our Forums and say hello to some of your Uechi-ryu friends. Van Canna moderates one of the forums and I know you will remember many of the other guys.

Sure, you can reprint any article you wish.

Best, George 

 =============

George, that was quick. It's great to hear from you. Thank you for letting me reprint articles in your web page. Have been out of touch for many years when I moved to Florida in 83. Been there for 13 years and came back in 96. It was a good move for me. Have black belts in Florida and go there once a year for promotions and training. Will drop a line into your Forum and say HI to some of my Uechi-ryu friends Mr. Lizotte is teaching only once a week in Connecticut at one of his black belt's dojo. I do not see him too much since I am busy with my school and working for the State. Have a great day and will be in touch. 

Yours, Chester

Dear Sir,

I am a second Generation Uechi Student. My father trained about 30 years ago, and although he never made shodan, he is the reason that I chose to practice Uechi-ryu over every other style of martial Arts available. 

My father currently lives in Morgantown, W.V., and has been looking for a Dojo to train in for quite some time now. He is hoping to move to the Pensacola aria of Florida this summer or the following summer. 

The main reason that I am writing is that in October of last year, you had a listing of local Dojo's and qualified instructors on your website. I tried to access the link again, but was unable to. I was hoping that you could tell me if the listing is still available, or could send me a copy if I gave you my address. Please let me know also if you know of anyone in those immediate arias who could train him so that when we meet again we may train together. I am only a yellowbelt now, but I am determined to keep training.

Also, if you do still have the directory, I noticed that you lacked the telephone number for my Sensei, Rick Martin

If you do have this listing, please use any of the following information for my Sensei unless he has requested otherwise.

Senesi Rick Martin The Health Forum 780 N. Missouri Ave. Largo, FL 33770 Telephone: (727) 585-8988 Fax: (727) 581-0324 Email: thehealthforum@verizon.net Website: www.thehealthforum.net

Thank you very much for your time.

Sincerely,

David Troyer 
Eph. 3:20-21 

Hello Sensei!

This coming Saturday I am bringing to the Hut, Paschalis Sofotasios! He is from Volos, Greece and has come to train with us. He is a Shodan who will be testing this month for Nidan in Belgrade. Additionally he trains with the Greek National team. Could you please send me the exact address of the Hut or directions just in case Marge Chojin is unable to attend with us on Saturday? Thank you! Looking forward to training with you!

Sincerely,

Deb Downing 

I visited your web site & really enjoyed the videos & unique offerings. I am a student of Manuel DeSa of St. Albert, Alberta, Canada & I have created a web site for his club ( www.geocities.com/desa_karate ) . I hope you don't mind but I added your page in my links section.

Please let me know if you do mind & I will remove it.

Thanks - great job on your site!!!

Lauri Thieson (student of Manuel DeSa)

Don't mind at all Lauri. Plus, I've forwarded your letter to our "Links" administrator, so he can add your site to our's.

Best of luck and stay in touch.

George Mattson 

Dearest George and Susan, it gave me Goosebumps not only to see that Nebraska was "well represented" at Summer Camp 2000, (though I'm only so very sorry I couldn't be part of that head count) but also to see again how Chinese influence is being well considered a part of Uechi-Ryu Karate Do. Your sentiments about whether or not I would attend were heartfelt, thank you both!! I also enjoyed Sensei Canna's word to the wise about "no excuses for not attending." I'm not sure how much my beloved Sensei, 

Dave Lamb told you about what my new adventure entails, though it has also begun to grow into more as we speak. Let me begin by stating that I would not be where I am today without Dave Lamb and you both. I began with a tiny interest in martial arts in general and thank goodness I followed my interest which led me to Dave Lamb. I also had a general interest in massage which only grew as my teacher fortunately put emphasis on the healing AND the hurting aspects of martial arts. Not to leave short that the martial arts has emphasis in the hurting aspect for the sole purpose of inflicting pain, "Manners: be humble respectful and courteous above all", is also something I can say off the top of my martial arts in-training-mind. As well not to over look the inherent healing aspects of Uechi-ryu, brilliant!!!! We could not probably give enough homage to Zhou Zi He for healing influence, if I'm not mistaken. 

At any rate, I've been looking at the International Institute of Chinese Medicine for about two years and couldn't really decide between their Acupuncture program and/or their Tui Na (Chinese massage) program. I'm still not to sure, but since there is so much crossover in the foundation and theory, I don't have to make a decision right now. simply put, every day in school gets more exciting, and I've only had 1 week of school. I do know it's going to be a challange, but not unmanageable. 

An aside, I asked one of my teachers, whether or not she thought that the same points that heal also hurt, she gave me such a look, as if one she doesn't know me well enough or what I might do if I had such secrets,. Of course I explained I studied martial arts, she still wasn't comfortable just curious. In short I am excited at the possibility that I may someday have the opportunity to give back to the Uechi system (family).

Thank You for the info on potential Uechi schools here in Albuquerque I'm not sure if they can top Dave, no offense to Uechi-ryu Karate Do, or to you GEM.

Not enough Thanks, not all the tea in China, for all that you, George and Susan have done for me

sending good positive energy your way, Amy T. McAndrews, of the Nebraska chapter Uechi-ryu 

Thanks for your most welcomed letter Amy. We all missed you at camp and look forward to your next visit. I am also very excited to hear that you are getting deeper involved with the healing aspect of our art. This indeed, is a much misunderstood and not appreciated part of what we do. We all look forward to learning more from you at future camps and events.

Stay well and keep in touch,

Best, George and you your IUKF friends.

Dear Sensei Mattson,

I just read a wonderful article you authored online, complete with photos, from your experience of early training in the 60's while you were a G.I. I can't believe that I can write to you like this. The internet is amazing!

To my point for writing: I'm 51, female, and had taken Shorin-ryu classes in the early 80's in central Ohio. I never forgot my original sensei: his artistry and intensity and spirituality. I've always regretted I didn't stick with it. And, now, I'm at the age where I don't want to look back later and wish I had tried it again and wonder "what if?" because I didn't take the time or make the effort to at least try.

Since moving to Boston in 1990, I tried both Tae Kwon Do & Chung Moo Doe briefly but neither 'felt right' to me so I am still searching for a 'right fit' as it were. I would appreciate your input and advice regarding someone my age beginning Uechi-Ryu training. Based on what I've read and seen on the web about the New England Uechi-Ryu dojos, I feel I may have found a 'home'. It seems clear that the dojos here take their work and students seriously and aren't in the business just for the $$ of "churning" people in and out the door. 

In my 20's I was the first female member of the first Nautilus club opened in central Ohio--way before "spandex" and way before it was fashionable for women to lift weights. In my 30's I left a sedentary career as a social worker to become a Letter Carrier. In the first 90 days [my probationary period], I had so many blisters I had to get up a half hour early everyday to have time to tape my feet for that day's walk. My shortest route was 10 miles and my longest 13.5 miles. I'm not in great shape now, am somewhat overweight, and had back surgery a few years ago[1997]. 

But, I have continued to work out at a gym swimming and weight training off & on since the operation. Despite my age & limitations from surgery. [I have left leg loss of feeling and left hip pain], I still think I'd like to give karate another try. But, I would not want to hamper any school or class with my presence.

Can you advise me as to which dojos are near me that might be willing to take on someone such as myself? I live in north Cambridge and work in Post Office Square in downtown Boston. I know there is a dojo at the Beacon Hill Athletic Club. I have also heard there are classes in Newton.

I would appreciate your input if you have the time to give it. Thank you so much for taking your time to read this. I know I've been a little 'wordy' so my apologies for that!

Sincerely,

Mary H. White

Information forwarded..

I do not know if you are able to help or not but it is worth a shot right?

Years ago when I was in my teens I read Inside Karate There was an add where they were selling a complete encyclopedia set from White Belt to I think 10 degree Black Belt. It was like a 18 

I have always wanted this set but now that I can afford to buy it I can not find it.

I am looking for anyone that may remember back that far. So if you are able to help me locate this I would be most great full.

I enjoyed your site and will look at it from time to time.

Thank You either way.

Ken Gage 

Hi Ken:

You might post your question on one of our Forums. Many books cover the ranks from white to black belt. Pretty difficult to document the master ranks, since the standards vary so much from style to style and require much more work/technique than can be documented in a book.

The only book I remember being called and "Encyclopedia" is Ted Kresge's old book. It was sort of a hodgepodge of scrapbook items taken from many other publications of the era. Also John Corcorian (sp) had an Encyclopedia published, which was more of a history of the martial arts and practitioners of the era. 

Sorry I couldn't be more help.

Best, George Mattson

 =======================

Thank You for your response. I will look in to what you suggested..

I have been disabled all of my life and I have always wanted this encyclopedia set it was listed as the must have for the martial artist.. haha but isn't that how they trap us in to buying things. It was a specific style I think it was listed as A Form of Karate From White to tenth but like you said that would be hard to do but it was listed in a complete MASTERS set something like 18 books to complete the set.

It will be a tough one to find but I will do like you suggested.

Thank You

Ken Gage 

Hi George......any video on Kanei doing kata or any moves?????.....

Randy

Yes. I returned to Okinawa in 1964 with Charles Earle and we filmed Kanei sensei performing most of the Uechi kata, plus exercises and other things. I'm selling this video on our store. (Vidmag 10)(click on http://karateworld.safeshopper.com/10/cat10.htm?135 

Best, George Mattson

sir my name is sinosh kumar i want to join karate but my friends are telling that you will reduce your weight and chest his this true please inform me as soon as possible do karate built up muscles

Hmmmm. Better ask Bill Glasheen about this. GEM

Hello sensei Mattson,

My name Is Jeffrey Lounsbury and I am a student under sensei Michael Chaille. He and his father, Warren trained under you and I thought it would be interesting to write an Email to you. As of now I am a second degree junior black belt and I have been studying Uechi Ryu for about seven years. Honestly I have no questions or comments about your site, but I find it interesting to be writing to you because of the fact that you taught my sensei. If you have any comments for me you can contact me at . . . 

Good luck with your training Jeffrey. Please send my regards to Michael and his father Warren. GEM

Dear Sensei Mattson,

I recently moved from Ithaca, NY to Tulsa, OK. Accordingly, there is no dojo at Cornell University. However, I'm sure I will start teaching sometime soon (in fact, I will probably be teaching kids who are abandoned by their parents--I already contacted the coordinator at Tulsa Boys' Home and she was very excited about the idea of teaching karate to those kids), so please add my contact information (918-488-8117 & mk77@cornell.edu) in the instructor list on the Web.

Regards,

Manabu

 ===============

Sensei,

Thanks for the quick response

>Good luck with your program.

Thanks! These kids are the kind of kids who wouldn't let you even hug you because they think you will hurt them, so it's going to be a big challenge to teach them to let their partner punch and kick them! I might use the online forums for some advice from experienced instructors.

>What happened to the Cornell program?

As you know, Jay left Cornell a little more than two years ago and I was the only black belt then. There is one good student with brown belt and other students were not on the level where they really want to continue when I left. So, I suggested visiting NYC once in a while, exploring other stuff a bit and perhaps using his talented friends some way. Actually, there is another black belt and brown belt girls somewhere at Cornell, but they are not quite eager to practice now...

But there will be a new unique Uechi school in Tulsa soon.

Regards,

Manabu

Dear Mr. Mattson, 

Good day! My name is Michael Antos, and I am a student of Sensei Buzz Durkin. I came across your website by random search, and I noticed your Email address. I hope you don't mind this greeting.

I have been studying Uechi with Mr. Durkin since November of 2000, and I am more pleased with his teaching and himself as a person than I ever thought possible or likely.

Your picture is placed here and there in the dojo, most prominently in the main dojo, on the North wall.

I hope that I someday get to meet you, but if not, I just wanted to say hello and thank you for all the work you've done for such a great martial art.

Sincerely, Michael J. Antos, gokyu.

Thanks for writing Michael. Keep practicing and stay active.  Hope to see you and your classmates at Summer Camp this year. GEM 

Dear George,
     I am a professional musician and have recently had a great deal of trouble post-performance with getting so pumped for my gigs that afterwards I cannot sleep because I have so much adrenaline in my system.  Have you heard of any other people having this syndrome? I love music and performing but not being able to sleep after a gig and having to teach the next day has been stressing me out.  I would appreciate any information or website you could point me to.  Thank you George.

Sincerely,  Patti

Sounds like a great topic for our forums Patti. GEM

Hello Master Mattson,

Just so that you will recall who I am, please let me reintroduce myself.

I am Sensei Peter Urbans rep. here in Fla. I had contacted you in the past, speaking of having been in Okinawa to witness your RokuDan promotion at the Ueichi TaiKai.

I wish that I could be contacting you under better circumstances, but unfortunately the news is grim.

I realize that you and he, where not the best of friends, but I know that you would want to know, that Joe Bass died a couple of days ago. After a long fight with cancer, he expired in his sleep. He and I shared a dojo, for a few years, he teaching Ueichi and Kendo / Iaido, and I teaching Karate and Jujitsu. We went our separate ways, but what I know about the sword, I mostly got from him.

I hope all is well with you and yours,

Steven L. Malanoski, Kyoshi 8th Dan, USAGA 

Mr. Mattson, 

I located and ordered the Black Belt Testing Guide on-line; however, I couldn't find the "Accompanying Written Brochure" that was referred to in VidMag 18A. Did you say an updated version was available on-line?

Also, I found my copy of your book Uechi-Ryu Karate Do, copyright of 1974; it may be one of the originals. Were any special editions or updates published (2nd, 3rd, or so on)? I noticed on line you have a copy for sale but didn't know if it was the same. Or would you recommend Uechi-Ryu 2000 book? 

Thank you, David 

Hi David:

Since I created this website, I no longer send out any accompanying booklets with the video tapes of Black Belt Test Guide. I still have a number of the original booklets that discusses the IUKF and the codes of conduct/ethics, but they are quite outdated. Check out the "federation" website, which can be accessed from the home page. By the way, Uechi-ryu 2000 is a great book. GEM

 =====================

Mr. Mattson, thank you for your timely response and suggestions. 

I've been inactive far too many years and my return to Uechi-Ryu is needed to address my medical problems head on. I can no longer rely on doctors and medicine alone. Uechi-Ryu helped me focus many years ago and I'm sure it will again. 

I will try to locate the BB testing guide and supplement on the website. 

Lastly, I was very impressed with J. Maloney's "New Wave" Uechi-Ryu videos. I will visit his website too. 

You have a great website too; already added to favorite links file. Thank you.

David 

Hello George

Thank you for response

I know, that you has not written the message. But I wrote my message to you because at this moment i could not write a message to the newsgroup?!

At the moment we prepare for new movies with a absolute new camera. Then you can see movies with up to 10 000 Frames per second. We are going into a new world of vision.

Thank you

with regards from Germany


Werner Mehl

www.kurzzeit.com 

Hi Werner:

I've posted your message to the "Realism of Self Defense" Forum this morning, along with the "Links" to your site. Should you wish to join in with the discussion, you must register. This is a very easy process. I hope you will be able to join the group, as I am sure many people will have questions for you regarding your expertise.

Not sure how familiar you are with the process, so will take you step by step through the drill:

1. Go to http://www.xpres.net/~gmattson/ubbs/, where the forums are located.

2. Click on the "Register" link, which is located in the upper right section.

3. Go to the bottom of the page and click on "Agree".

4. Fill out the information form, using whatever "handle" or username you will be using on the forums. (Datu Worden suggests people posting to your forum use their real names)

5. I suggest you allow the board to remember your username and password for one year. Saves lots of typing.

6. Click "Submit Registration".

7. Your password and username will be emailed to you. (This makes sure that all people are using their real email address.)

8. Go to the forums and post. Your forum is part of the "Martial Arts History, Culture and Philosophy" section. The first time you post or reply, you must type in your user name and password. The Board will remember this information in the future. (Remember that your password and username is case sensitive.)

Again... looking forward to working with you. Welcome aboard.

Best, George Mattson

Visitor from Japan:

George Mattson sensei.

Nice to meet you. My name is Hiro Uechi (male; 28 years old). I garaduated Waseda University graduated school doctoral course in this March. In this May, I plan to stay Boston as postdoctoral fellow of Boston University for 1 or a half year.

Also, I am Uechi-ryu karate student (My karate history is for 13 years; 1st dan). My teacher is Isamu Uehara. He is a sun of Saburou Uehara (Second student of Kanbun Uechi). 

I would like to meet you. Could you tell me how to get to your dojyo ?

Take care of yourself.

 =======================

Mattson Sensei.

This is Hiro. Thank you for your message.

Now, I prepare to get J-1 Visa. So, I will go to Boston in next month. When I decide my schedules exactly, I will tell you my schedules as soon as possible.

I have your book, "The way of karate". That is very very nice book.

I am looking forward to see you.

P.S. My family name is "UECHI". But I am not relative to Kanbun Uechi sensei. 

 ===============

Dear Mattson Sensei.

This is Hiro. Thank you for your kindness.

I am very lucky. I know that Uechi-ryu summer camp hold annually in USA. I have heard that the camp is very big. I am looking forward to participate your lesson and be invited summer camp.

Take care of yourself.

 =================

Dear Mattson Sensei.

This is Hiro. How are you. Thank you for your message.

I will send Mattson Sensei's message to Isamu Sensei. I think that your message will give him big pleasure. Yesterday, We told about Mattson Sensei after practice, Isamu Sensei had nostalgia for those days.

Please keep me posted regarding your scheduled trip and let me know if you need a place to stay when you arrive and until you get settled at Boston >University. You are welcome to stay at my home.

Thank you very much. I don't have place to stay for a few day when I arrive at Boston. So, That's very very helpful. I am sorry to cause you so much trouble.

I will sublet the room where Boston university's student lived. 

I will contact closely with you. When my schedules are decided, I told you as soon as possible.

with best regards.

Hiro

 ==================================

Dear, Mattson Sensei.

This is Hiro. How are you.

Yesterday, I told my teacher (Isamu Uehara; 62years old) that I contacted with Mattson Sensei. My teacher said to me that Mattson Sensei is very famous, gentle, intelligent, and strong teacher in Uechi-ryu karate. Also, My teacher said "I have met Mattson Sensei in Okinawa, when I was teenager, give my best regards to Mattson Sensei".

I am very happy to contact with Mattson Sensei. Thank you for your time.

P.S. I would like to write more, but I can't write in English very well. I am sorry.

 =================

Camp Suggestions and comments:

Dear George & Van

One of the vital logistics in the organization of any event is media publicity..... for us here in HK ..... We maximize the media by holding pre-event press conference, send out press releases before and during the event

My humble opinion is the Camp gets almost zero new exposure except within the small Uechi community via word of mouth, Emails and of course the various forums......

You need to attract the press from the B-Globe Brockton news, Falmouth News..... all of them

The press needs to be invited. Say on Saturday there must be something special for them to see pre-arranged if necessary..... kata, breaking, something that makes for good press

Here we have an event at the US Maritime Academy already that sounds impressive. You have people coming to New England from around the world.... like myself from Hong Kong. That makes for good press & boost's local Tourism.... We need to package the Camp in such a away to let the general public know there are people doing some great Martial Art things in New England for the past 40 years....... We need to have something done to bring in the press element. They will need to be fed lunch..... they will need to be given free bee's like T Shirts or Ball Caps.... they need special press tags to wear.... a simple color pass run off on a desk top color printer then lamented would do the trick. They need someone like you Sensei's ( Van & George ) to look after them and explain what's going on. A demo Team needs to be organized to give the press photo Ops for still & active pictures.

Someone needs to be assigned this task as the Camp Press Officer...... I have done this for years in HK & it has become the cornerstone of our Action Asia Challenges Races..... With our partners at National Geographic.... our races reach 360 Million TV viewers in over 32 countries

Nat Geo would not cover an event like the Camp because they like human drama falling down in the mud, jumping of cliff's type of footage

I'm am sure the Sunday Globe pull out Mag writers would like to hear about the Camp

New Writers are a very lazy lot..... You have to come up with the angles to attract them 

They like human interest stories.... The Old, young & invalid Karate-Ka..... the dynamic powerhouses, you need to give them great material to make good and interesting press. The worst case scenario is if you attempt the half baked without flare & imagination, the result will be negative.

Again.... these are just my thoughts based on the success we enjoy here in HK..... When I started this race under Gordon's vision back in 1998.... No one thought this would fly. I believed in Gordon and his dream. Hard work has made these races a huge, recognized international success in only 4 years.

OK...... must run

Warm regards to everyone

Bob Campbell  from Hong Kong

 =====================

Hello George-Sensei,

Hope everything is well . I have an interesting question:

I have been participating in the Russian Martial Arts forums where I met a Uechi-Ryu practitioner from Litva. His name is Andrius Staniulis

Apparently he studied on Okinawa for some time and is very much interested in attending our Summer Camp. In fact he wants to bring up to 15 of his students (visas permitting). Just wanted to see what you thought about that and if there are any restrictions that would apply. Also, will the pricing for them be general, as for the rest of us? Please let me know whether I should discuss this further with him or not. Thank you.

Regards,
Vladimir Fookson

Back in 1999 (or perhaps it could have been 1998?) I had attended Uerchi-Ryu camp as a day student. That particular year you had a guest speaker come to talk about food toxins, environmental toxins and detoxing the body. I had taken her business card but of course over the years I have lost it. I am writing in hopes that I may be able to at least get her name again through you. (hopefully you'll know who I am referring to! A long shot perhaps but I had to try). Please email me any info you may have. 

Thanks, Sandi Upton 

Hi Sandi:

You are referring to Dr. Ann Doggett. She will be at camp again this year. Hopefully you will be able to join us again.

Dr Ann's telephone number is 617-328-6300

Best, George Mattson 

Thank you. I was really impressed with her work and knowledge (actually thinking it would be great to learn more about her techniques too.) I'm now working for an integrated health care facility and we could use someone like her here! (to have someone to consult would be great) 

I haven't been studying uechi-ryu recently, so I probably wont be at camp, but I really did enjoy it and got a great deal out of the time I did spend studying and at the camp. 

Thanks again, Sandi

 =====================

Dear George & Susan......

Thank you for the David Copperfield mind test trick. I haven't tried it as yet but I will.... I can do some magic myself.... I can make money disappear from my Bank account simply by blinking my eyes once

I can not do this trick too often since there is limited money to make disappear.....

I have received ( not a flood ) but a tidal wave of Emails from people asking me if I am going to the Camp... many of them I do not know. So as I prior suggested.... here is a little note to that effect. On another matter, I have given in & agreed to your invitation along with Van to test for 8th but from my heart Sensei & said most privately, I really do not want or wish to do this for I need another Dan like I need another nose. I have given my word to Van that I would do this but you have one very very reluctant candidate on your hands with me.....

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

To : George E. Mattson Brockton - USA 

Fm : Bob Campbell Hong Kong - Peoples Republic of China

21st of March 2002

Dear Sensei,

I would like to take this opportunity to Thank you and Van Canna for once again inviting me to attend this Years Summer Camp at the Maritime Academy on Cape Cod. I am very happy to inform you I will be honored & available to attend.

I truly look forward to seeing all my long time Karate friends & I hope to make many new friends at this years Camp. I encourage one & all to attend knowing this year will be very exciting with so many talented & gifted Instructors in attendance

Look forward to seeing you & Susan in August......

Your Friend & Faithful Student

Bob Campbell 

 ====================

Not everyone studies karate for self-defense!

Dear Harvey (Liebergott):

 I am Dorothy I met you at the Summer Camp this year. I had no idea at all who anyone was at the camp and I am just blown away at all the marvelous people I met and didn't know who I was speaking with. You in particular.

I have about 6 pages left to read in your book. It is a book I will read more than once. There are so many things in your book that have given me insight, understanding, new dedication to my Karate. I am glad you had the courage to write about failing your first 3rd degree black belt test. I have learned so much from that, of course, I haven't internalized it yet. That will take time, I can only tell you if I had not passed my State Boards for nursing the first time I wouldn't be a nurse today. I would have been too humiliated to try again.

When I tested for my Green Belt I was so freaked out Steve had to ask me one question in Japanese because I wasn't getting it when he said it in English. I intend to work on doing my Sanchin like I am being tested and my next test I am going to try and do it like I am NOT being tested. I don't know how that will go but I am going to try it. It was wonderful reading about George Mattson and Bob Campbell and Lawrence Tan, I don't really know who Bob Campbell is.

As soon as I finish reading your book I am going to start it again and go even slower to be able to internalize a lot of what you have written. I am so glad you told me about your book. One thing that greatly relieved my mind was reading "You don't have to be perfect" just work to your best ability. I am now 57 I didn't start learning Karate until Jan.2000 and then I was 56. It was good to read you don't have to be young to study Karate.

Thank you again for telling me of your book and more important thank you for writing it.

Sincerely, 

Dorothy Reitman 

Dear Dorothy:

Thank you for the wonderful letter. The book has never sold well, but I have received about a dozen responses like yours, over the last half dozen years. Yours is one of the best and will keep me high for a week. Two of the others are Steve White's, on the library forum, and David Kahn's, rating the book on Amazon.com. 

If you haven't met Bob Campbell, you are in for a real treat. We imagine, when we become karate students, that the highest ranked seniors will all look like some of the people who surround George Mattson, but such people are really very rare, and rarer still are the ones, like David Mott and Bob Campbell, who are practiced in a variety of Zen arts. 


I hope that Bob and Larry Tan and David will all be at next year's camp, because there is nothing better than hearing them spill out insights at the Saturday party. Please come find me, and I will introduce you. Thanks again, for the letter.

Harvey

 ====================

George,

Thank you for including me in your eZine list. I will pass it on to my students. Ernie Sumpter (Philadelphia) called me about these dates as well. I will be on work travel for most of these dates, but as I said I will pass them on. 

Congratulations on another successful summer camp! The two students of mine (Dana and Heather) that went came back very excited about what they learned and couldn't wait to show me. In fact I have asked them to conduct a mini-seminar in place of one of our classes to show our dojo what they learned. 

I started a new job last March at the National Education Association Health Information Network as a health educator. I travel a couple times a month setting up and implementing parent education training programs and conducting HIV prevention and education seminars. It's going great! 

Ken Nakamatsu came to DC with his wife and their son Taichi this July after training at Frank's in Florida. We had great training with him and I enjoyed showing them around DC. His wife had never been here before and was very impressed and happy as she had only seen Florida and thought all of the US was like that! I'm glad I was able to show her something very different.

I am off Wednesday for 10 days in Alabama to conduct training sessions for work and then 5 days in Atlanta for a conference. I will stay with Bruce Hirabayashi and his family for a couple days as well and get some time training with him and his students there. 

I hope you and Susan are well.

Bob Kaiser

Hello, My name is Louie Geronimo and I used to practice Uechi Ryu in the Philippines a long time ago, approximately 14 years ago. I was just wondering how Sensei Robert Campbell is doing. He used to teach at the Manila Polo Club. Anyway, I hope this message somehow gets to him. Thank you for your time Sensei Mattson. 

Hi :

Thanks for writing. I'll forward your message to Robert, who resides and works in Hong Kong. Bob often spoke about his Uechi club in the Philippines. He was very proud of the club and the students who practiced there.

Stay in touch.

Best, George Mattson

Dear Mattson Sensei:

I have returned from my Okinawa sojourn this past week, the experience was like "going back home"...what a wonderful feeling, the Jundokan is operating under the very capable Iha Koshin Sensei with a very strong board. Unfortunately the address give for Tomoyose Sensei wasn't quite correct...However, he did send his regards and to tell you the Kanji for his address translates to both IRIBARU and NISHIHARA, so I was looking for him in the opposite side of town. 

Once again thank you for your help and hopefully we'll be able to meet in the near future.. Sincerely, 

Robert Young Jundokan Miami

Dear Sensei Mattson

Thank you for the information.

Just to let you know a little bit about myself, I am 29 Y/O and I live in a small town called Paisley, just ten miles west of Glasgow, Scotland (Gt Britain). I am a Shotokan practitioner (12 years) but I am interested in the evolution and history of all karate styles. To say that I am interested in Uechi karate would be the understatement of the millennium, I have fallen hook, line and sinker for this beautiful, dynamic style of karate. 

Watching Kanei Sensei, Seiko Toyama Sensei, Seiyu, Kiyohide and Narahiro Shinjo Sensei, yourself and Alan Dollar Sensei, Tsutomu Nakahodo Sensei to name only a few is inspirational to say the least. I am really desperate to get my hands on the Wakayama tape for historical reasons and I will be posting some questions to Glasheen Sensei once I have seen it.

I have amassed quite a collection of books, videos and magazine articles from various sources about Uechi-Ryu, as well as being a regular visitor to your on-line magazine and a member of Patrick McCarthys International Ryu Kyu Research Society. All of this only whetted my appetite for more and I contacted Sensei Dave Scott in Liverpool, England about training with him. Unfortunately Sensei Scott is quite some drive from where I live so he put me in touch with his friend Sensei Harry Cook (a well known karate historian and instructor) who lives a bit closer. This was in February this year, but the more I trained with Sensei Cook the more I wanted to make the long drive to Liverpool and train with Sensei Scott. Just to let you know that I phoned Sensei Scott tonight but unfortunately he is busy until next week. He put me in contact with Sensei Steve McNally of the Liverpool dojo and as I find myself with Thursday and Friday off work this week I will give you three guesses where I am going (and the first two do not count).

I would like to thank you Sensei Mattson, your videos, books and articles (particularly my own personnel favorite in Bugeisha: The Evolution of Traditional Karate) are never far from hand when I am researching karate in general. I will give you a quick e-mail later on in the week to let you know how I get on. (it is my surprise 30th birthday party on Friday night so I better make it back on time for that)

Thank you for your time

John Cairney

HI, Came across you whilst surfing the net on my steam driven computer. I guess the last owner was Noah. You will not remember me, used to train with H Benfield in liverpool had a small group in Prescot then, a lots happened since then, getting old and sort of clapped out, although last heard Harry is still at it, still do a bit on my own though just for the exercise, to busy rebuilding my life since the wife died, but your teachings have helped me to over come many obstacles, still remember those days back in 75.. best wishes and god bless,

Bob Mercer. 

Hi Bob:

Good to hear from you again after such a long time. I do indeed remember you. . .

Stay in touch. Drop into the Forums and say hello to the gang.

Best, George

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