George,
It's been a long, long time since last I saw you. I believe it was around 1975. I
was assisting Bob White teaching in New Jersey and had come up to Framingham
to practice with yourself and John Conroy.
I just retired from the US Army last November and am now adjusting to the
private sector. I am desirous of teaching Uechi-ryu again and have read some
literature of changes in the name sine the passing of Kanei Uechi. Please fill me in
on this if you would. Assitionally, I am living in Columbia, Maryland and don't
know if there is a NAUKA dojo nearby. Is there anything I need to do formally to
continue teaching our style again? While in the military, I was in charge of physical training for the
entire Army Reserve at the Pentagon. I also implemented and provided direct training from 1982 to
1995 to over 1000 service members. I'm not out of condition.
Looking forward to speaking to you again. I see you are now an eight Dan. Congratulations!
Bob Alexander
You better spend a few days checking out the Uechi-ryu Website to get up-to-speed on what has been going on in the Uechi-ryu world since you left New England. To my knowledge, NAUKA has disbanded, with all the founders going their own way. Check out the new organizations and get involved. Welcome back Bob. GEM
More from Bob Alexander:
George:
It was great hearing from you. I want Walter Matson and yourself to include me on your list of
Uechi-ryu sensei and although I am not establishing a dojo at this time would like to know if one is
in the Maryland area so that I can possibly visit and pay my respects. Please send me what ever
information I need to "train-up" get up to speed on our art. Uechi-ryu is always with me no matter
what type of training with which I have been involved. Is Walter on the web? If so, please pass my
letter to him. It's been a long time since we three saw each other. By the way, if you can recall, my
loyalties were always with the Uechi-ryu school. Are there any pictures of Sensei Komesu-san?
I remain a loyal Uechi-ryu student regardless of my rank!
Thank you,
Bob
I don't think Walter is on the Web, but many of his students are and I'm sure one will pass
your letters on to him. I'll place your name on the "instructor's listing", where you will find
other Uechi teachers. . . some in your area. The best way to "get up to speed" is to work out
with others in your area, attend Uechi activities such as the annual Summer Camp and
Uechi Championships. Find a place to workout and start teaching is also a great way to
"get involved". I'll check my photo library for pictures of Komesu Sensei. If I find one, I'll
put it up on the Uechi website. GEM
George,
I remain loyal to the Uechi-ryu Karate Association from the day I was first taught to date. I
respectfully request that I be accepted as a member of NAC and reaffirm my membership status to
SOKE. If there is a NAC dojo in Maryland, please let me know that I may pay my respects.
Please forward me a copy both the Charter and the Code of Ethics to which will abide and any
other information I need to instruct and adhere to NAC rules. Do I need to have a NAC patch? I
still wear my original Uechi-Ryu patch.
Respectfully,
Bob
Pleased to welcome you to our growing family Bob. The Charter and new Code of Conduct and Ethics are accessible from the home page. Let me know if you are unable to view this page with your browser and I'll send you a hardcopy. NAC is always happy to welcome new members, but I must emphasize that we are not at war with the other groups. Our long range goal is to maintain a close and fraternal relationship with all our Uechi-ryu practitioners, regardless of what they chose to call their administrative groups. GEM
Dear Mr Mattson:
Congratulations for your website. Is good to see people developing new strategies for promoting
and teaching and also to let people communicate each other to shear different aspects of Karate.
I've told my Sensei of this site and he will be very glad of being posted in your Instructor Directory.
The data is as follows;
O.K.I.K.U.K.A.I Okinawa Karate-Do Kyokai Japan
Name: Gustavo Gondra
5th Dan
Shihan Master Instructor
Address: Instituto Sucre
Sucre 2336 1ro B
(CP 1428) Buenos Aires
Phone: (541) 781-1194
Argentina
He told me that soon he will also send you his Resume ( Curriculum Vitae). If you have any
comment please send a reply of this e-mail and I will give the message to my Sensei.
Thank you for your help and best regards
Gabriel E. Miguel
e-mail: gmiguel@baileyar.satlink.net
Sensei,
The following is a press release from the Province of Nova Scotia's web page. So far I have not
come across any new legislation. I will check with Sport and Recreation on the status of the
legislation.
SPORT & RECREATION--NEW REGULATIONS FOR COMBAT SPORTS
---------------------------------------------------------------
The Nova Scotia Boxing Authority (NSBA) is now regulating all combative sports in the province,
including kickboxing, shootfighting, karate and tae kwon do. Competitions in these sports must
now be sanctioned by the NSBA in order to operate in Nova Scotia. As the umbrella organization
for all combative sport organizations in the province, the NSBA is responsible for ensuring that
each organization has its own regulations that comply with NSBA standards. Standards would
include having liability insurance, enforcing age restrictions and ensuring safety standards are met.
"Our main concern is that competitions in these sports are carried out with the safety of the
participants foremost in mind," said Hubert Earle, chair of the boxing authority. The authority has
established a committee to oversee the regulation of all combative sports. Chairing the committee is
Ron Fagan, a fifth-degree black belt in karate and commissioner of the NSBA.
Kickboxing and karate are already in the process of being sanctioned by the NSBA. Although both
amateur and professional boxing are already sanctioned, a separate committee is reviewing boxing
regulations to ensure they comply with provincial guidelines. Shootfighting is similar to extreme
fighting, but with rules. Extreme fighting has no rules and as such is not permitted in Nova Scotia.
Contact: Hubert Earle 902-869-3696
mfm Aug. 21, 1996 10:05 a.m.
This might be the "new legislation" the teachers were discussing at camp this year, which
appears to govern tournaments only. Please keep us posted regarding this law and any
others that might be pending. You should be very concerned about such lasws, which are
written in such a manner that, authority might be interpreted to include other dojo activities,
which might include sparring and contact training. Once such laws are on the books, they
are very hard to change. They are written to give the "commissioner" the very broadest
powers that may be determined to be necessary. GEM
Dear Sensei Mattson,
We completed our move (well not completed exactly, there is still a lot to do in the new place) and
had our first class on Monday, October 7, 1996.The new Dojo has two classrooms with a
moveable wall between. The place was wide open so that the whole school could participate in the
first class. We had 110 students doing Kata together and still had room for 20 more. The new
Dojo is also virtually across the street from my house. Anyway, as promised, my new address is as
follows:
Neil Dunnigan's Karate School
11715D - 108 Ave.
Edmonton, Alberta
Canada T5H 1B8
Phone: (403) 413-3339
I am also building a Home Page, but it is still under construction. I hope to "Hot Link" to yours if
that is OK with you and would appreciate it if you could list mine.
Watch for your Home Page link to be activated this week. Congratulations and best wishes
for the continued success of your dojo in the new location. Keep us posted. GEM
OSU George,
Thanks again for the book "Sissors, Rock, Paper". Great title, by the way. It was a generous gift.
I received it a week or so ago and had a chance to finish it up this past weekend. I particularly
enjoyed reading about the development of Uechi-ryu in the USA. And I think I've finally learned
how to pronounce the name properly! Best wishes and please feel free to drop me a line.
Dan S. Soller
Dear George:
I am up early this morning, another example of a body compelled by its mind. In reviewing the
forum I suddenly realized why I stopped participating. It is too unwieldy and takes to long to scan
for responses. Is it possible to have a live chat Uechi-Ryu channel. Does one already exist. Can
you start one for the Nac. As always your attorney students ask more questions then we dare
answer. Your loyal student Ron Edelman
Its an imperfect Internet-world. Until something better is developed, we will have to make
do with the "Forum". The live "chat" program is being explored right now. I've found a
great new Java program that will be installed soon. Maybe you can become the "Chatshow"
Host! GEM
Dear Sir,
Thank for your prompt response to my letters. I look forward to reading your article in "Bugeisha".
Will this magazine be distributed widely--will I be able to pick it up where other karate mags. are
sold or will I have to order it?
Also, I was wondering if you could give me some advice on how to go about studying and learning
the kata Sanchin. I have a basic understanding of the movements but am still not comfortable doing
this kata. This bothers me because I realize how this kata is the backbone of the entire style and I
long to be able to go through the movements both comfortably and properly. For some reason I am
unable to maintain the proper stance throughout the kata. My thrusts and turns are o.k.--it's my
steping that is giving me trouble. I don't seem to have this trouble in the katas Kanshiwa or
Kanchu--just Sanchin. Any suggestions you could give me would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you for your time,
BSmith1123@aol.com
Call 610-286-7771 for subscription information re Bugesha. I'm not sure what the
distribution program will be. Regarding Sanchin. Most people are too tense when they learn
the kata. This comes about because of a misconception about "focus" and "dynamic"
tension. Being too tight will cause your stepping to be mechanical and inaccurate. Check out
my book "Black Belt Test Guide" for detailed information regarding the performance of
Sanchin. Also Peabody Publishing has a number of video tapes covering this important
subject.
Good Luck, GEM
Sensei Mattson: I received Alan Dollar's book about two weeks ago and have read and reread
much of it. In a word, it is great. There is so much historical and technical information that each
chapter requires a review after reading to even begin to absorb it all. It is a must read. Sensei
Glasheen and I have been discussing aspects of the book that clarify for me much of what we do.
This book would make a good topic for discussion in the roundtable.
As to the log-in problem I am having, it does appear to be my aol service or software. I was able
to log-in on the roundtable using netscape software on my laptop at the office and my log in name
and password. Something ocurred about a month ago after your most recent homepage revision
that my home machine cannot deal with. I can read what's new and monthly letters though, so much
of the timely info is available to me. At some point I will just have to get netscape up and running.
Regards, Rich Castanet Richmond VA 10/19/96
If anyone else is interested in purchasing Alan's book, click here for ordering information. Regarding the "forum", USA1 has been having difficulties with the new version. Something to do with hardware incompatibilities. I've checked out the current version and am able to register as a new user and log on as an existing member. However, the old "bugs" still exist. Your messages and new topics must be less than 50 words. I also had problems viewing the Uechi-ryu site using AOL's default viewer. I didn't bother to try their Netscape or Explorer upgrade though, but have been told that with this upgrade, you will be able view the site with "frames" and log onto the forum. GEM.
From: Mark Druckenmiller:
mad67986@marauder.millerv.edu,
My name is Brandon Blake. I am from Philadelphia, PA. I'm curently a shodan in Uechi-Ryu. My
instructor is Sensei Albert Sanders. I believe that you know him.I just wanted to know if you could
send me some info on your school (times of classes,tournament schedules,etc.) Thanks.
I'll put you on my mailing list, but if you have Internet capabilities, you can maintain
constant contact with the Uechi-ryu community through our site:
"http://www.uechi-ryu.com"
Our next major event is the Uechi-ryu Karate Championships, to be held in the Boston area
on May 31st. We have new rules and procedures, which have been used successfully for the
past three years. Again, all this information, including the rules are on the Uechi site.
Please give my best regards to Albert Sensei and all of his students. Hopefully we will see
your group at the forthcoming tournament and most importantly at our annual Summer
Camp. (2nd weekend in August).
See you on the Net! GEM
Hello George:
I was looking at your dojo listing's page, and I noticed that there were no listing's for Puerto Rico...
I just wanted to let you know that one of my students is living in Puerto Riro.. His name is Gilermo
Abudo, he is a Shodan.. He also has a dojo out of his home... He has a small operation, about 10
students at this time.. Gilermo has told me there is no other uechi dojo in PR that he can find.. I
guess at this time he is the only one....
Here is the info: Gilermo Abudo
Guaynabo, P.R. 00968
Phone: 809-782-3769
Take care: Jay Sal
I'll include Gilermo's information in the teacher's page and will look him up the next time I'm
in PR. GEM
Dear George,
Sorry for being a stranger. My world has been too hectic in the last month, plus I am getting
married this coming weekend. Bugeisha is coming soon (December 96). This is the general info
that's going out on the Cyberdojo. You may use it to complement your newsletters etc.. The basic
single issue price is $6.00. We are giving you a special school price of $4.50 per issue. For more
info contact Walter Dailey at 610-286-7771. Thank you for your support.
Angel Lemus
Good luck to you and your new bride, Angel. The martial arts community is ready for your
new magazine and anxiously awaiting the premier issue. GEM
---------------------------------------------------------------
BUGEISHA:Martial Artist-
It is a brand new quarterly magazine that will cover traditional Okinawan/ Japanese martial arts like
no other magazine has attempted to do in the past! BUGEISHA will not bring you the Hollywood
scene, sport tournament or politics, only the martial traditions of empty handed fighting arts and the
ancient weapons arts will be extensively featured in BUGEISHA. Bringing you a well balanced
editorial package that will fill the void that exists in today's martial arts magazine market.
BUGEISHA has compiled an impressive list of contributing martial artists that have a wealth of
experience and information to pass on to you. Martial artists such as George Alexander, Rudy
Crosswell, Richard Florence, Glennard Grabow, Bruce Heilman, Pat McCarthy, George Mattson,
Toshihiro Oshiro, John Sells and Bernei Weiss are only a few on the expanding list of contributors
scheduled to fill the pages of BUGEISHA.You can expect to see feature articles on the basics,
such as historical research, conditioning, practical applications to traditional arts, interviews,
philosophical issues, internal energies and how to apply them and spiritual development.One
exciting aspect of BUGEISHA that will differ from all other publications is the "Technical" approach
that we have adopted. Meaning that we will give you a heavy emphasis on "How To" do
something. Literally showing you by example, how to apply a certain technique through extensive
photo essays which will contain detailed explanations, theories, close-up photos and footwork
charts. These articles will be simple to follow in a format which will allow readers to incorporate
new techniques into their training.BUGEISHA will also feature multiple departments to touch base
on a variety of subject matters such as editorial, letters from readers, medical & legal issues, life
experiences, women in the martial arts, equipment reviews, book and video reviews, and on the
last page of every issue, a short profile of an influential teacher/master within a particular style or
discipline. This is only the beginning! It is our hope, that martial artist of all styles will benefit from
the pages of BUGEISHA, and feel that finally someone has something to offer similar to a fresh
breath of air! With more information available from Okinawa and Japan than ever before, it is a
very exiting time to bring you a vehicle that will deliver it all to you! We look forward to making
BUGEISHA a valuable instrument for your continuing education and research! The premiere issue
is scheduled for release in December 1996.BUGEISHA is produced by Maii Productions, Inc. For
more information, please call 610-286-7771, fx610-286-7776, weapons@ptdprolog.net
I just wanted to drop you a note to say thanks for letting me participate on the Code Committee. It
was a very educational experience for me and I feel that we have come up with a great document. I
was wondering of you were planning any west coast visits soon? We are having an extended
summer, with temps into the 100's during October! Quite a difference from the fall in Mass. I'm
sure. Also is it too early to sign up for the camp in 97? I am starting to scrape my pennies up now.:)
Thanks
Dave Shorey
Uechi-ryu Karate Do Club
C.S.U., Sacramento
p.s. Sensei Neide says hello:)
I'll be going to Vancouver at some point. Perhaps we can schedule something in Sacramento
at the same time. Keep in touch. GEM
Hi! Sensei,
Just read my E-mail. I sure like the way you setup your web site it makes it so easy to order the
thing we need for our students. This is going to be great around Xmas time!!! Yes I did order the
book, thank-you, for your quick reply. I was hoping that you my have the E-mail addresses for
Sensei Bob Campbell and Sensei Jim Maloney, if they have any, I would sure like to send then a
little mail on the web... I spend alot of time in your web site it sure is helpful. Keep up the great
work...Hope to hear from you soon.
P.S. Please say Hi to Sue for Andrea & I
Sincerely,
Bill Marshall(PEI Uechi-Ryu)
I've enclosed Bob's and Jimmy's email addresses. Hope to have time later to include them in
the "Teacher's" Listing. Thanks for the order and support. GEM
Please read the attached. I would appreciate any assistance you could provide in my research.
Thank you,
Ken Hawkins "NewAgeHawk@aol.com":
St. Louis, MO
Hello Traditional Martial Arts Practioners:
I am an ikkyu student in Shotokan karate-do. As part of my shodan test later this year, I am
preparing a paper on footwork (pivoting). My interest in this topic began in an article I read by
John Cheetham of Shotokan Magazine published in Great Britian. He debated what westerners
have always been taught regarding pivoting on the ball of the foot versus rotating on the heel. Mr.
Cheetham sited examples of kata on JKA training films where pivoting on the heel was used for
turns and other transitional movements. I have also found heel rotation easier in executing certain
techniques as well. If you would like to help out a shodan candidate, I would appreciate any, and
all, viewpoints on this topic. Opinions from any traditional martial artists are welcome.
Please reply via my AOL e-mail; include your name, style, current rank and years of study. I would
like to hear from as many people as possible. Include any references to existing published articles,
books, or videos. Looking forward to your response.
NewAgeHawk@aol.com
I have finally figured out how to get on to the Uechi Web Site (it's great!) with user ID and all that,
but now I can't figure where to find the wgwupld.exe file so that I can send a reply to some of the
dojo topics.Is that something I can down load from the Uechi forum or is it software I must
purchase? Thanks for your assistance. I'm enjoying the site very much.
Jackie Olsen
First off, you don't need any software to access the "Dojo Roundtable" Forum. After
logging-in (or registering for the first time) you should be able post messages on the forum
by going to the top menu and selecting either "Reply" or "New topic" to leave a message
relating to an existing topic, or to begin a new topic. If you are trying to post a message on
the other sections of the website, don't. Only I can add information to these pages. Thanks
for the interest and comments. GEM
Dear Sir,
Thank you for the information about Alan Dollar's book. I will be looking into purchasing it in the
coming weeks. I have another question. How did you get started in learning Uechi-Ryu? I have
seen a few pictures in Sensi Frank Gorman's dojo and was wondering how you and he came about
learning Uechi-Ryu in Okinawa from the masters firsthand.
Thank you for your time,
BSmith1123@aol.com
Check out the new magazine, Bugeisha for an indepth article about my early training in Uechi-ryu. GEM
Dear Mr. Mattson,
My name is Kirsten Treichel and I am responsible for photo research at why magazine in Toronto.
I am currently looking for photographs to accompany an article about Karate in our "well-being"
department. In the article we will be featuring the Canadian Martial Arts Commission. I was taken
by the photograph of Master Kanei Uechi performing a kata. How would I go about obtaining
permission for publication? I can be reached at Nitroma@aol.com
Regards,
Kirsten Treichel
Yes, you may reproduce any of the photographs on the Uechi website for your publication.
Please state where you received the photographs and that they were reproduced with my
permission. Keep us posted regarding your article. I'm sure many students will be interested
in reading it. GEM
Dear George!
Dojo list looks better
It will be good to have beside the names and tel. numbers, e-mail address and if it is possible direct
connection to the e-mail. Under the Slovenia list are two dojos from Croatia. Croatia is a new
country like Slovenia having routes in former Yugoslavia.
davor
Good point Davor. I start adding the email addresses as they are given to me, starting with yours. Some of you old-timers may remember Davor when he was studying with me in Boston many years ago.GEM
Dear Sensei Mattson,
Really enjoy the On Line Magazine. The new format is very effective. I enjoy the articles and the
perspectives of yourself and the other authors concerning Uechi karate. If there are any anecdotes
of Kanbun or Kanei that you could share with us from time to time, I would be interested.
Best wishes!
David Murphy
Danvers Dojo
Jonmur25@AOL
Check out my reply to the next letter, David. GEM
Dear Sir,
I have read & greatly enjoyed your book on Uechi-Ryu Karate Do. I am currently attending Sensi
Frank Gorman's class in Clearwater, Fl. & am currently at the rank of 7th Kyu. I am writing you to
ask if you could guide me to where I can receive a little more info. on the history of this style. I have
read both your book and many other sources and would like to learn a little more of how the art
came to the U.S.
Thank you for your time,
bsmith@aol.com
The best information is within this Uechi website. You can also check out the books and products section for more materials. Finally. . . check out "Bugeisha", the newest martial arts magazine to be making its debut in November or December. The cover story is about my experiences on Okinawa. GEM
I have about 50 to 70 used school lockers that someone might like to have for their school. They
are available free to whoever wishes to move them. If painted, the lockers should look very nice. I
was planning to use them myself, but opening a school did not work out. The lockers and I are
located in Hanover Pennsylvania, near the Pennsylvania/ Maryland border. Please respond directly.
Dave Einhorn
deinhorn@isnov.ab.umd.edu
Hi George,
I hope this message finds you and Sue in good health. My wife Gill and myself play a large part in
the organisation of the English Uechi Ryu Competition. We know how much work is needed to
make the event a success so I'll take this opportunity to say well done on the success of your recent
competition. I was particularly pleased to see that Fedele Cacia took first place in the kata. I must
have done something right when he was in England!!!
Thanks for your hospitality while I was in Boston earlier this year.
Jim Hulse
Fedele is a wonderful student and credits much of his skill to his teachers in England. Hopefully we will see you and your "mates" at camp next year. GEM
This Question is not for myself, but for a friend he presently a senoir in high school now and is pretty good in MA. I read a article in your mag about "Teaching Martial Arts at the College and University Level".Since some Colleges and University's teach Martial Arts are their Scholarships offer for Martial Arts in Colleges and Universitys ?? ps If you don't Know it's ok, maybe you can turn me to the right direction. Thanks .. Vedo
Most universities and schools offer very inexpensive martial arts programs and many allow outsiders to participate. I suggest you (or your friend) find a school nearby and inquire about their programs. GEM
Sensei Mattson,
This message is to make you aware that the Okinawa Goju-Ryu Shobukan Organization has
established a homepage. This site is sanctioned by our international headquarters in Yaeshima,
Okinawa City, Okinawa, Japan, and is supervised by Sensei John Porta, International
Representative for the Organization. The Okinawa Goju-Ryu Shobukan Organization site contains
articles on history, traditional Okinawan weight training, Matayoshi Kobudo, and much more. The
address is as follows:
http://www.nserver.com/shobukan/
If you have the chance, please let me know what you think.
W. Scheinler
____________
scheinler@earthlink.net
Dear Sensei Mattson,
I have surfed you web page many times and am thankfull for the wealth of information you have
made avaliable to all. I have always believed that you should not judge someone by their style or
affiliation but should meet them with an open mind and enjoy the exchange of ideas and viewpoints.
I have always had a policy of opening the doors of my dojo to members of any group as long as
their attitude is condusive to the safe and healthy practice of Master Uechi's karate. I have recently
returned from a trip to Canada and had the opportunity to visit with David Mott (an old friend).
David has taken over the direction of two of my schools since I have moved to the states. He is a
fine man and an excellent example of a true Master. I had an opportunety to meet with Daniel
Portalance who teaches my old school in Aurora, and I am glad to say that past missunderstandings
have been resolved. I still have a senior black belt who helps and trains with Dan. Although I am
presently not affiliated with your organization, I would like to take you up on your offer to list my
dojo in your directory. This way anyone who is relocating to, or vacationing in the Orlando Florida
area may contact me and come for a visit. Thank you and good luck in the future.
Shihan Bob Yogis,Godan
Uechi Karate Academy
5195 West Irlo Bronson Hwy.(US192)
Kissimmee(south of Orlando)
Florida, U.S.A.,34746
Ph (407) 396-0682
E-Mail BobYogis@worldnet.att.net
I plan to be in your area in November or December. Looking forward to seeing you again. GEM
Sensei,
I hear so much about you and it is a great pleasure to write this mail to you. I have been training
with Sensei Bill Arch in Kalamazoo, Michigan and currently am holding the green belt. I wonder if
you could inform me when and where the 1997 Uechi Ryu Karate Championship is going to take
place. I like to know too in the way you classify the division within the tournament: is there weight
class within each belt division? It will be a great priviledge to participate in your tournament and it is
a great honor to meet you in person one day.
Your reply is greatly appreciated and you can address it to:
Romeo.Keeleong-Mindang@Kellogg.com
Thank you very much.
Romeo
Please check out the Tournament Listing page for complete details. The tournament will be held on Saturday, May 31, 1997. Looking forward to seeing you there. GEM
I received my shodan four months ago. I have since been employed as a public school teacher. I
have been told by the school administration provided that I obtain an instructors certificate. Any
information that you could send me on that subject would be most appreciated. I am one of Bill
Glasheen's students.
Thank you,
Josh Ajima
Interesting. . . the larger the martial arts population, the more concern over regulations on the part of private, city and state officials. Josh's request is one of many received this year, from teachers attempting to begin programs in their communities. One of NAC's role is to provide acceptable guidelines for the dojo. . . so the government won't be tempted to "help us out!" by forcing us to join other, established martial arts organizations. Fortunately, NAC does provide the credibility that the government agencies are looking for and the teaching programs we established were the first of many steps we took to head off trouble. GEM
OSU
Although I am not associated with Uechi-ryu, I visit your web pages from time to time as I find
them interesting and extremely well done. You do a wonderful job in keeping the pages updated,
interesting and educational. Pages such as yours give karateka -regardless of rank- an excellent
"viewbook" which exposes them to information that would not otherwise be available. It is without
a doubt a valuable service to the martial arts community.
And I thank you for it!
Have OSU.
Dan
Dan S. Soller
Vice President
La Roche College
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Dear Sensei Mattson,
I would like to congratulate you on your organization and establishment of the NAC Homepage,
you've done a terrific job, as always. I have recently acquired a computer which is Internet capable
and am looking forward to the increased communication it will allow. I have been studying with Mr.
Tsutomu Nakahodo for the past 8 years and enjoy training with him very much. I have tried to see
him at least every year and to make the best of the distance between us in miles and culture. I am
presently moving my Dojo to a new and larger location and would like to be listed in the Dojo
Directory. The move will be official as of October 7, 1996 and I should have all the information
(address/postal code/phone number) finalized by then. Perhaps I could be listed with my E-Mail
address for the present and up-date the listing in Oct.
The passing of Mr. Uechi and the subsequent split has been difficult for all of us. Like most, I don't
really understand what happened and only regret the split. I would like to compliment you on your
open-minded attitude and efforts to make all feel comfortable and welcome. As I practice and
teach and grow, I have come to appreciate the efforts you have made and the difficulties you have
endured over the years. I apologize that I was unable to appreciate them sooner.
Respectfully,
Neil Dunnigan
Thanks for the kind words Neil, and nice to hear from you again. Keep in touch. GEM
Success!! Three more weeks of hassling with the telecom companies to get the school's internet up
and going (would you believe we first had to connect at 2400 baud??!!). Finally here we are. I'll be
a week or two setting up educational directories, downloads, and bookmarks for the kids and
teachers, and then maybe I'll have time to think of a home page for the school and/or the Seton
Lake Dojo.
As soon as I get a chance, I'll scan the contact sheets from this year's (and previous) summer
camps and send them as e-mail attachments, then send the hard copy to you directly. If there's any
you'd like to post I can scan them and post them from this end as needed.
It doesn't look like I'm going to be here through the winter, as Stuart is planning on returning to
Florida in November - and it also looks like it's going to be a long, cold winter. There's been fresh
snow on the peaks regularly for the last couple of weeks, and the bears are down in the valley at
infestation levels (got chased by a mom and cubs last night while walking home!).
As you may know by now, the Seton Lake Dojo is hosting the First Annual Seton-Ohin-Shalalth
Uechi-Ryu Karate Tournament at Crane Hall on October 19. I guess that's news worth posting on
Uechi-ryu.com; who knows, maybe someone from outside BC might just show up! Anyway, now
that this is up and running I'm sure you'll be hearing from Stuart or I more regularly.
Looking forward to your response . . .
Yours truly,
Mike Cleven
Nice to have you on-line Mike. Give our best to Stuart and the students at Seton Lake. GEM
From: "Portelance, Daniel SC-PO1" <PORTELANCE@PO1.SC.unisys.com>, on 9/23/96 10:14
AM:
George,
That is a VERY COOL logo (Introductory Screen). Is it just me or do really love working on this
Web page? If you're like me, your wife doesn't know she has a husband. I'm rarely home(teaching
and training) and when I'm home, I'm on the net checking out your page. Having real trouble
staying current and up to date on the development of the Code of Ethics, wish I could sit there all
day and discuss. My busy life won't allow for it. Sounds like we've got a bunch of caring individuals
who are taking this code to heart.
I want to register my dojo with NAC, do you have a revised booklet and do I just fill in the
registration page or is there more(approval?), please send at your convenience. What fees are
associated with membership, yearly, per member?
All the best,
If you note the time of this message, you've discovered the secret of my time management.. .
Sleep less! I do enjoy working the Web and spend at least 2 hours a day on the site. Mostly
learning new programs associated with building and maintenance of the site. If Susan thinks
I'm spending too much time working on the computer (NAC administrative duties as well as
the Web) she sends Tia (our dog) upstairs to get my attention. Leash in mouth, Tai
DEMANDS to be taken out for a run in the park.
Anyway. . . back to business. There are no fees or formalities in joining NAC. Simply fill out
the application. (page 36 in the NAC manual) The only requirement is that you hook up with
an NAC senior instructor and practice with that person on a regular basis, come to the
annual Summer Camp and support NAC activities when possible. I try to visit dojo once a
year as well, generally timed with promotionals or other regional activities. Since you are on
the web, staying in touch should not be a problem. I'm always available and willing to help
in any way possible.
Later. . . GEM
Mr. Mattson,
I live in Minneapolis, MN and have been searching for some time a Dojo in MN. I was introduced
to Uechi-Ryu while a Marine in Okinawa and studied with Sensei Gordy Berete. (earned 7th kyu
12/20/96) Any guidance towards a Minneapolis/St.Paul Dojo you could offer me would be much
appreciated.
Respectfully,
John T. Anderson
JAZ1069@black-hole.com
Check with Ron Klein. He knows most of the dojo in the Midwest. GEM
Dear Fellow Martial Artist,
I am a sandan (third degree black belt) training with Master sutomu Ohshima in Los Angeles. In
1991 I made a year-long pilgrimage in Tibet to investigate the Khampas--Tibet's infamous race of
warriors. As a result of this journey I have written a book that is just now being published by the
Overlook Press. It is my hope that the book transcends the differences between styles, and will
appeal to martial artists of every stripe. In an effort to reach people outside my own organization
(Shotokan Karate of America), I have compiled a limited mailing list of martial artists from the
World Wide Web. This mailing list will be used only once, for the following announcement:
------------------------------
AMONG WARRIORS
A MARTIAL ARTIST IN TIBET
by Pamela Logan
In the tradition of Peter Matthiessen's The Snow Leopard, a rare look at a journey to eastern Tibet
in search of its legendary warriors. Scientist-turned adventurer Pamela Logan travels to the wilds of
eastern Tibet in search of knowledge and inspiration for her karate practice. Her goal is Kham,
whose people are famed for their ferocity, banditry, and ruthlessness. Overcoming mountains,
snowstorms, sickness, and police, she traces routes used by famous Himalayan travelers Alexandra
David-Neel and Peter Matthiessen--and blazes some new trails of her own. Biking and hitchhiking,
traveling on horseback and on foot, she explores a rugged, spectacular region that since the
Chinese occupation of Tibet has been closed to outsiders. Her journey brings her face to face with
Tibet's incredible prostrating pilgrims. As she explores the heart of Kham, she discovers a kind of
courage that gives new meaning to the word "warrior"--and is an unexpected source of inspiration
for her martial arts.
------------------------------
Published in 1996 by The Overlook Press and distributed by Penguin, USA. ISBN:
0-87951-643-7 288 pages, 16 full-color photographs, and 5 maps. To order send $23.95 plus
$3.50 shipping to THE OVERLOOK PRESS, 2568 Route 212, Woodstock, NY 12498 USA,
or call 914 679-6838.
You can read a lengthy excerpt from the book and a review by the Los Angeles Times by pointing
your browser to http://www.alumni.caltech.edu/~pamlogan
This URL also contains information on how to obtain the book at a discount, and biographical data
about the author (me!). Thanks for your attention. Train hard!
Sincerely,
Pamela Logan
Dear Mr. Mattson,
Recently, while surfing the web, I came across the name of my former instructor: Sensei Mikio
Nishiuchi. I studied with him for 3 years in Omaha, Nebraska. At that time, he was teaching two
styles, specifically Pangainoon-Ryu & Wado-Ryu. With his listing at your website, did he join the
Uechi-Ryu organization, or are you listing all instructors, regardless of "political faction"?
I'd love to drop him a note. Do you have a mailing address for his dojo?
I appreciate any information you can provide.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Don't use a big word where a diminutive one will suffice.
Randy Spizman
ranspiz@primenet.com
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Check out his address in the Tournament Page. He is running a tournamet this month in
California, and is affiliated with the Pwangainoon organization I believe. GEM
I have read the letters concerning the political situation on Okinawa and would like to comment on
it as well. I was in Okinawa from 1988 to 1994 and studied under Kiyuna sensei at the Kitamae
dojo in Ginowan from 1990 to 1994 when this was all beginning. These senior OkiKuKai sensei
are totally loyal to the last great leader of Uechi-ryu, Kanei Uechi and are opposing his son, who
they felt un-worthy to assume the position that he bestowed apon himself. They for the most part
were told by Kanmei sensei to leave and no longer use the Uechi name. It is sad, but they are just
doing what they have to do to preserve Kanei sensei's ideals and methods.
Bill Wojtas
chicago, Il.
Sensei,
I would like to thank you for referring me to Mr. Brian Boelke. I have recently joined his dojo here
in Chicago and am really enjoying it. After two years of not working out, he is really getting me
back into the swing of things. Although I was affiliated with an OkiKuKai dojo in Okinawa, I never
learned the Okikukai techniques, but studied Uechi family style. Mr. Boelke is a most capable
sensei and I recommend him to anyone else here in the Chicago area for some traditional
Okinawan Karate!
Thanks again!!
Bill Wojtas
Hey Sensei!!
Well it's been a rough couple of hours but we're finally on-line--Enjoying surfing the web but had to
stop here first to drop you a line --Things are great on PEI (Prince Edward Island) Our E-mail
address is Marshall.bill@peisympatico.ca. Talk to you soon Say hi to Susan
Bill & Andrea
Welcome aboard Bill and Andrea! Hope to be hearing a lot from you about PEI Uechi-ryu. GEM
Dear George,
I love the new look. It's "Way Cool". I thought I'd write to thank you for the opportunity to be part
of the "Code Of Ethics" committee. The past two weeks work have shown the extreme talent that
NAC has in it's membership and reflects upon your leadership. The example that you set of
openness , trust and devotion to making Uechi-Ryu and NAC better is a large part of why NAC
such talented people.
Thank You
Sincerely
Steve & Lisa DiOrio
I'm just as impressed with the effort the committee put into the task. I believe that the "code
of ethics" will be adopted in one form or another, by all major martial arts organizations.
Ron will be publishing a paper on the process of building this code and the interesting
discussions that took place among the committee regarding the topics. GEM
From: Ales Zajc <zajc@haas.berkeley.edu>, on 9/22/96 8:31 PM:
Hello:
I am an MBA student at UC Berkeley, CA originally from Slovenia (Europe). Last year I've
started practising Uechi-ryu Karate Do in my home country (Slovenia, Ljubljana) and now I moved
to the States due to my studies. I would like to know where I could practice Uechi-ryu in or near
Berkeley. There is a Martial Arts club at the University but there are no classes of this stile of
karate. I would appreciate your answer.
Best regards,
From: Christine Inghram <cing@up.net>, on 9/23/96 10:41 PM:
Mr.Mattson,
I am trying to register into the Forum but am getting a message that says"notify Workgroup Web
Forum Administrator that error is-couldn't read HTTP query,expected 140 bytes but only got
130." Is this my problem? I really don't know much about computers.
Thank you,
Chris
Hi Christine:
As you probably realize, the server is having trouble with the "Forum" program. They have
promised a new version within a couple of weeks.In the meantime, the forum works, for
messages under 50 words. (there is a memory problem) I just came back and the registration
process worked. Suggest that you register in a minimum manner: i.e. full name, user name
and password. This way your memory usage falls within the minimum requirements and you
can enjoy the forum, albeit in the abreviated version. Keep in touch, GEM
Mr. Matteson,
I received the information you gave regarding Graham Hadley, and thank you. However, Mr.
Hadley is no longer at the number given since February. No forwarding address was available. Any
other information about Uechi-Ryu in Honolulu would be appreciated.
Thanks for the assistance.
Bobbie Walden
Anyone know Graham's new address? GEM
Dear Master Mattson
Thank you very much for putting our DOJO in the dojo-round table. Sensei Stuart Killan is holding
a Uechi-Ryu tournament Oct.19,1996 in Seton-Ohin-Shalalth. I hope the weather permits. Would
you kindly put Sensei Mike Dunphys Dojo's address in the Dojo's listing.
Sincerely
Chris Delorey
Check out the Tournament notices for information about the Seton event. GEM
Mr. Mattson,
I have received my order of Uechi Ryu books. Thank you for your prompt service. The books are
very good and I wish to increase my knowledge of Uechi Ryu further.
I live in Yonkers, NY which is in lower Westchester county. Do you know of any Uechi Ryu dojos
in my area?
I would appreciate any help you could provide me on this subject.
Sincerely,
Al Remediani
New counter.10/16/96: