Hombu dojo of 
Shorin-Ryu Karate
    U. S. A.

Our final tip test of the year was held on Dec. 27. Congratulations to Kathy Chin, Shailesh Singhal, Barry Perlman and James Moskie on their promotions, and domo arigato to black belts and kyu ranks for assisting with the test. As noted by the Board of Judges, this test was a great "head start" on the new year.

Sensei Gamiel Ramson, Go-Dan, has become the "Chief Instructor" of the Ueshiro Midtown Karate Dojo, effective Dec. 15. Sensei Ramson's 25 plus years of training at the Midtown Dojo have made him an invaluable member of the Hombu Dojo community. As mentioned during our year-end night's compai, his dedication to rigorous training, his commitment to the high standards of our kata, and his ongoing efforts to improve both his own karate and that of every student makes Sensei Ramson eminently qualified for this role. Sensei has also exhibited great loyalty to Hanshi and Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu USA both on and off the deck. Congratulations to Sensei Ramson on his most deserved promotion.   

The Hombu Dojo celebrated the accomplishments of 2011 with a workout and compai on Dec. 15. Each student said a few words of appreciation to Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu USA and exhibited a special kata with his or her peers to end the year on a strong note.  Domo arigato to all for your hard work in perfecting our kata, and your individual efforts in keeping the Dojo running.    

Sunday, Dec. 4 marked the 49th Annual Black Belt workout and compai, attended by over 50 black belts from across the country training together for nearly five hours. Hanshi provided high-level instruction spanning everything from mastering the basics to understanding the subtleties of our most difficult black belt kata. Domo arigato gozaimasu, Hanshi, for bringing focus and cohesion to Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu USA. 

After the workout the group adjourned to the sushi restaurant Japonica for much revelry and holiday cheer. Domo arigato to Kyoshi(s) Baker, Seeger and Kaplan for their leadership and to all our out-of-town guests for braving the holiday mania of New York to attend this event.

Finally, I am most grateful to the numerous black belts who contributed in large and small ways to organizing the weekend. The black belt training and compai simply could not happen without the contributions and coordinated efforts of many. 

The Hombu Dojo hosted a month-long karate and self-defense program for the employees of Colgate- Palmolive as part of their "Live Better Challenge," a program sponsored by Colgate to improve the health and fitness of their workers. Classes were held Mondays and Wednesdays from 12:00 to 1:00 for the month of November. Domo arigato to Sensei(s) Silver and Vachino, Mr. Flores, Michelle Napoli, Barry Perlman and Kathy Chin for their participation in the course. We introduced Shorin-Ryu to nearly a dozen employees of the company, including a core group of five who attended most of the 10 classes. 

Hanshi Robert Scaglione travelled from Florida to provide an intensive workout at the Hombu Dojo on Sunday, Oct. 30. The two-hour class, open to all students, included numerous high-level corrections along the theme, "Train to win." Key concepts covered by Hanshi were released in a subsequent "Technique of the Week," available here. 

Our 10th annual Central Park workout was held near the Sheep's Meadow in Central Park to commemorate those lost in the 911 attacks. We were joined by many black belts and deshi from affiliated dojo, including a surprise appearance by Capt. Robin Islam, Sho-dan. The workout drew a large contingent of spectators as groups performed kata among the pine trees and granite outcroppings. Domo arigato in particular to the many children deshi whose enthusiasm offset the solemnity of the occasion.

August full belt promotion  - Aug. 7, 2011

Hanshi Robert Scaglione traveled from Florida to lead our Summer Promotion on Sunday, Aug. 7 at the St. Barts Athletic Center. The advanced workout and test lasted four hours with eight students being considered for promotion. Photographs of the marathon event may be seen here.

"Karate Kids Kamp" visits Hombu Dojo  - Aug. 6, 2011

Kyoshi Matt Kaplan of the Ueshiro Okinawan Karate Family Club brought a group of teens from the Penn. State dojo to train at St. Barts on Saturday, Aug. 6. Their visit was part of a five day tour of dojo in the Northeast, combined with cultural excursions in nearby cities. Hanshi Robert Scaglione presided over the class, which was followed by an informative "Question and Answer" session.  

After the workout a large group enjoyed lunch at a nearby NYC diner, followed by a trek through Central Park and a visit to the Museum of Natural History.

Sherwood Island beach workout  - July 10, 2011

Our traditional beach workout took place on an idyllic summer morning at the Sherwood Is. State Park in Weston, Ct.  Students from several affiliated dojo and clubs joined us: Palisades, Northern Virginia, Pelham Manor, Easton, Downtown NY, and the St. Barts Summer Camp. Domo arigato to Ali Chan, Alden Rothe and Shabbir Kazmi for documenting the day's events.

After the three hour workout students and their families adjourned to Sensei Adam Dunsby's residence for a pool-side BBQ. The Dunsby's and Easton Karate Club have hosted this event for many years running. It is a perfect way to decompress after a marathon workout.

Shorin-Ryu demonstration - June 11, 2011

Sho-dan Candace Morgan sponsored a karate demonstration for artist Jimmy Mirikitani’s 91st birthday on Saturday, June 11 at "The Village at 46 & Tenth." Mirikitani San is a survivor of WWII internment camps, Hiroshima and 911. His inspiring story of endurance is told in the  documentary film, The Cats of Mirikitani. This is the second year the Midtown Dojo has participated in the celebration. 

50th Anniversary edition of "The Shorin-Ryu Okinawan Karate Question and Answer Book" released - June 1, 2011

The third printing of the "Question and Answer Book", by Hanshi Robert Scaglione and Sensei William Cummins, has been released in anticipation of the 50th Anniversary Celebration planned for August, 2012.  Please pickup up one or more copies at the Dojo at your convenience.  The cost is $12.

Sensei Nichuals memorial workout and katathon - 
May 22, 2011

An outdoor workout was held May 22 to celebrate the warrior spirit of Sensei Dan Nichuals, Shihan of the Ueshiro Okinawan Karate Club of Pelham Manor, who passed away from pancreatic cancer 5 years ago. This workout was hosted by the Pelham Manor Karate Club and was held at the Glen Island Westchester County Park. 

The occasion was also used to perform one hour of back-to-back kata as a fundraiser for the victims of last March's earthquake and tsunami in Japan. Participants raised over $1,800 in contributions to the American Red Cross by collecting donations for each minute of full speed/full power kata performed.  Domo arigato gozaimasu to those who attended, and their extended support network, for their tremendous generosity.

May Day wilderness workout – May 1, 2011

The morning following Black Belt testing, Sensei Dan Gobillot of the Ueshiro Northampton Dojo hosted an outdoor workout in Chapel Brook Park attended by deshi from the Northampton, Midtown and Suntree Dojos.  The class marked a Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu USA tradition: putting on the gi the day after a test and starting to earn our current rank.  Domo arigato to Sensei Gobillot for leading us to such an inspiring venue.

Black Belt test – Apr. 30, 2011

A Black Belt test was held on Saturday, April 30, 2011 at the Northampton Ueshiro Karate Dojo. Hanshi Robert Scaglione traveled from Melbourne, Florida to oversee the day's events.  Training commenced before 10:00 am and continued until 7:30 pm that evening.  Over 30 black belts representing 12 dojo attended to train under Hanshi and support those candidates being considered for promotion.

After a comprehensive review of kata, weapons, kumite and atemi waza, the following Deshi from the Ueshiro Midtown Dojo advanced in rank:

Sho-Dan

• Candace Morgan

• Sam Suzuki

• James Gasca

Ni-Dan

• Ron Ballin

On behalf of Hanshi Robert Scaglione, congratulations to all the candidates for your demonstration of endurance and presence of mind during the marathon test. Domo arigato gozaimasu to Sensei Dan Gobillot, his students and extended family for their exceptional courtesy as hosts for the weekend’s events.

Visitors from Florida dojo – Apr. 28, 2011

On April 28 we had the pleasure of training with Sensei David Tamir, Shihan of the Ueshiro Suntree YMCA Dojo, along with two of his Ik-kyu students. Their visit was part of a tour of all USRKUSA dojo in the Northeast to prepare for the Black Belt test held in Northampton, MA.

Tip test – Apr. 26, 2011

In honor of Grand Master Ansei Ueshiro's 78th Birthday, the April tip test was held at the Shorin-Ryu Federal Reserve Bank of NY Karate Club. Domo arigato gozaimasu to Sensei John Bottega and his students for hosting the event.  After a traditional test comprised of kata, basics, demonstration of strength and understanding of Shorin-Ryu history, five students were promoted in rank. Domo arigato to the Black Belt judges for their perceptive comments on the candidates' performances, and to the deshi from both the Midtown Dojo and FRBNY Club for lending their support.

After formal presentations the group adjourned to the parapets of the landmark Federal Reserve Bank building for informal training 14 floors above New York's historic financial district. 

St. Barts Renovations – Mar. 2011

The management of the St. Bart’s Athletic Center has expressed their gratitude to all the karate students who volunteered to help paint the main entrance over these past few weeks. Many of you attended more than one work session and the job probably would not have been finished without your help. Domo arigato gozaimasu for your strong showing of community spirit.

Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu USA Karate Newsletter - Spring 2011

The Spring Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu USA Karate Newsletter is now available on line for your enjoyment. 

Domo arigato gozaimasu to Mr. Bob Dobrow of the Ueshiro Northfield, MN dojo for compiling and distributing this information.

Presidents' Weekend Training Program in Florida –
Feb. 18 - 21, 2011

The 2011 Florida Karate Weekend started Friday evening with a workout at the Cocoa YMCA Dojo, hosted by Sensei Ron Marchetti. On Saturday morning training continued in earnest with Hanshi conducting at the Viera Recreation Center Gymnasium. At about noon Hanshi split the group into separate seminars on kata, followed by additional seminars in traditional weapons. The session ended with demonstrations of weapons kata, after which the deshi assembled at the Viera lakeside pavilion for a BBQ compai.

The three-day marathon resumed early Sunday morning with an outdoor workout at Lori Wilson Beach. Hanshi arrived in time to review Fukyugata San with the group, then offered corrections to the Ik-kyu. At the end of the workout Hanshi assembled the students in a large circle for white belt demonstrations of board breaking, plus special demonstrations of kata and weapons from the higher ranks.

The event would not have been possible without the exceptional hospitality of Sensei(s) David Tamir, Ron Marchetti and Kurt Tezel, along with their respective students. And of course a special "Domo arigato, Hanshi!" to Hanshi Robert Scaglione for keeping the standards of Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu USA so high.

Full rank promotion – Feb. 13, 2011

The Hombu Dojo held its full belt promotion on Sunday, Feb. 13, 2011. Due to the main gymnasium being closed for repairs, the test was held inside the Karate Studio. Domo arigato to everyone for adapting to the "Dojo in a Box" concept. After four hours of rigorous training and review 11 students advanced in rank.

Congratulations to the test candidates for dealing with every challenge thrown at them, including being asked to perform kata facing different directions. Domo arigato gozaimasu to the black belt judges, as well as all the others who did not test but lent great support. Thank you also to the participants from the Ueshiro Easton, Ct. Karate Club and to the loyal group of family members who came down to chronicle the day's events.

Tip test – Feb. 8, 2011

The first tip test of 2011 was held on Tuesday, Feb. 8. Congratulations to those promoted to Ro-kyu. Domo arigato to the Board of Judges, as well as the many other participants who showed up to train and give their support. We were also honored to have representatives from the Pelham Manor, Federal Reserve Bank of NY, and Downtown Karate Clubs in attendance.

Hanshi Seminar at Hombu Dojo – Jan. 29, 2011

Hanshi Robert Scaglione offered a standing-room only class at the Hombu Dojo on Saturday, Jan. 29. Also attending was Sensei Sal Scaglione, Denshi/Shihan of the East Meets West Karate Club of Northern Virginia. The seminar lasted two-hours and served as an invaluable primer for the upcoming Feb. tests.

New Year’s Eve class – Dec. 31, 2011

A special New Year's Eve class was held on Dec. 31, conducted by Sensei Ramson and Mr. Ballin. The class started at 4:30 pm and was rumored to have continued until just before midnight.

The final tip test of the year will be on Tuesday, Dec. 21.  The pre-test workout will begin at 5:30 pm.  Sensei Haven Pell of the Ueshiro Bushi Dojo in Santa Monica, will be co-hosting the event.  Please submit your test materials (written paragraph and fee) by Dec. 20.

Our year-end celebration will be held in the Dojo on Tuesday, Dec. 14, starting at 5:30 pm.  All ranks are invited.  As per tradition, we will have a vigorous workout until 6:45, followed by an informal gathering to wish each other happy holidays.  Light refreshments will be served.

Black belts from all dojo around the world are invited to the 48th Annual year-end workout and compai (celebration).  Please prepare demonstrations. Hanshi will take this opportunity to review all participants individually.  The hours are Sat. 10 am to 5:30 pm and Sun. 8:00 am to 12:00 noon. 

Hanshi Robert Scaglione will be conducting an Advanced Training Seminar open to all students at the St. Barts Gymnasium on Saturday, Sept. 25, starting at 11:00 AM. Deshi from all Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu USA Dojo and Club are encouraged to attend. Hanshi's review of the core principles behind traditional basics and kata will be of high relevance to the beginner white belt through eighth degree black belt. To cover the costs of renting the gymnasium there will be a $10 seminar fee. 

A review of students testing for green belt and above will be held on Sunday, Aug. 15, in the St. Bart's gymnasium.  The pre-test workout will begin at 10:00 am sharp.  Please submit your promotion materials to Kyoshi by Tuesday, Aug. 10 at the latest.  The Friday 5:30 pm classes in the weeks preceding the test will place an emphasis on preparing deshi for their test.  Please take advantage of these special review classes. 

The newly-reinstated brown belt class continues this month on Thursday, Aug. 12, at 5:30 pm.  Insofar as most Ik-kyu and Ni-kyu will not be testing in August, consider this class your semi-annual "review."  Former brown belts are welcome to join in.

A demonstration for and by the karate campers at St. Barts will be held Wednesday afternoon, Aug. 11, starting at 2:00.  Adult deshi of all levels are welcome to participate.  The workout/exhibition will run until about 2:40, followed by sushi with the parents. 

In anticipation of our full belt promotion, we will be holding a tip test on Tuesday, Aug. 10, beginning at 5:30 pm.  Candidates should ask a black belt instructor to review the requirements well in advance of the event.  Spectators and students of all ranks are invited to attend.

All black belts system-wide are invited to attend the black belt only class on Thursday, Aug. 5, starting at 5:30 pm

Sensei Reymond will host the green belt emphasis class, starting at 5:30 PM. Leave extra time to get to the dojo as President Obama will be attending a fund raiser at the Four Seasons Hotel this evening at 57th St. and Park.

The annual beach workout will be held at Sherwood Is. State Park Sunday, July 18, rain or shine (directions and map). The Park gates open at 8:00 am and the workout will begin at 8:30. Follow signs for the "East Beach" which includes changing facilities, showers and rest rooms. Bring water, sun-screen and weapons. Deshi particularly sensitive to the sun may wear sun glasses and/or visors. Shoes are optional, although the Park now advises visitors to "wear water shoes to protect their feet from sharp shells and rocks that are found on the beach." 

The workout will be followed by an informal pool-side picnic and BBQ at the home of Sensei Adam Dunsby's starting at 12:30 pm.  Friends and family are welcome.

The Midtown Dojo will reinstate the Brown Belt class on a monthly basis starting July 8 and continuing on the second Thursday of each month. The class will begin at 7:00 pm and be conducted by high-ranking black belts on a rotating basis. 

The Brown Belt class is intended to help prepare ni-kyu and ik-kyu for the upcoming Black Belt reviews. As per tradition, the emphasis will be on building endurance and tanden (spirit), as discussed more fully in Chapter 3 of "Building Warrior Spirit."  

The Black Belt and Green Belt emphasis classes will continue as usual, with July's Black Belt class starting at 5:30 pm on Thursday, July 1.

Ms. Hend Elsayed, Ni-Dan, has started a karate club for teenagers under the auspices of the Islamic Society of Mid-Manhattan. The group has been training regularly at the 5:30 Friday class, co-conducted by Mr. Ron Ballin. Please show your support for these new Deshi by attending the 5:30 class, and working one-on-one before or after the formal session. 

The next green tip test is scheduled for Tuesday, June 15, starting at 5:30 pm. Students wishing to test should speak to their primary instructor to receive permission to test and assistance in submitting test materials.

Ik-kyu Candace Morgan is organizing a karate demonstration for Saturday, June 12, between 1:00 and 2:00 pm at "The Village at 46 & Tenth," a senior citizen living center located at 510 West 46th St (between 10 - 11th Aves.). The demonstration is part of a community-wide celebration for artist Jimmy Mirikitani, a survivor of WWII internment camps and Hiroshima, who will be turning 90. Mirikitani San's remarkable story is told in the award-winning documentary, "The Cats of Mirikitani".  A group will be departing from the dojo on Saturday at 12:30; or meet us in Room 201 at the Senior Center.

Starting June 7, the dojo will host karate classes for children via the St. Barts Summer Camp. Class times are 1 pm to 3 pm, Monday through Friday, and will run until Aug. 20th. The program is being led by Sensei Rob Neff with Victoria Baughman as assistant instructor. Please schedule your informal training around these times, and be sure to leave the dojo impeccably clean after every class.

Sensei John Bottega has cordially invited us to participate in an open-house at his recently-established dojo/club in the Health and Fitness center of the FRBNY. Deshi of all levels are encouraged to attend. The workout begins promptly at 5:30 pm and students are asked to arrive at the door by 5:00 pm. A group will be leaving from the St. Bart's Dojo at 4:30 pm. Security at the Fed. requires participants show photo ID. Bo's will be permitted. Note: This workout replaces the normally scheduled 5:30pm and 7:15pm classes at the St. Bart’s dojo. The FRBNY is located at 33 Liberty St. one block East of Broadway. The gym is on the 14th floor and has full locker and shower facilities.

Representatives from Boston, Northampton, Virginia, Florida, New York, Connecticut, and Santa Monica gathered at the Pine Forest Dojo for eight hours of workouts and black belt testing under the auspices of Hanshi Robert Scaglione.  

The following Ueshiro Midtown Dojo deshi were promoted in rank:

• Sho-dan - Sergio Flores 

• Ni-dan -  Hend Elsayed 

• Special presentation of Roku-Dan certificate - Sensei Kevin Reymond 

Other members of the Ueshiro Midtown Dojo participating in the workouts included: Kyoshi David Baker, Sensei(s) Luz DeLucia and Rob Neff, Messrs. John Adams, Ron Ballin, and Jon Cohen.  Brown belts were represented by Henri Waelbroeck and Gerard Rath.

Domo arigato to all who made the long trek, and especially to Denshi Shihan Dan Gobillot, Director of the Pine Forest Dojo, for organizing this memorable event.

A green tip test is scheduled for Tuesday, April 20, starting at 5:30 pm. Candidates should submit their materials at the dojo no later than Monday, April 19.

We have been invited to attend workouts conducted by Hanshi Robert Scaglione in the Northampton and Boston, Mass. dojo for the weekend of April 17 and 18. Students of all levels are invited to the Saturday 10:00 am workout in Northampton, and black belts are invited to the dan-level training and test in the afternoon (exact time to be announced). 

Training with Hanshi will continue at the Ueshiro Boston Chinatown Dojo at 12:30 pm Sunday.  If you are driving or if you need a ride please email Kyoshi with particulars (departure time and place). A mini-van will also be leaving from the Pelham train station at 6:30 am Saturday.

The Spring Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu USA Karate Newsletter is now available on line for your enjoyment. 

PDF format (58 MB)

DOC format (34 MB)

Domo arigato to Sensei Karen Brophy for an outstanding job for producing this edition. 

Because of our building's proximity to the Waldorf Astoria (guest lodge of visiting Presidents), the St. Bart's Community House has received substantial funding from the Dept. of Homeland Security to improve security. The gymnasium and public hallways are now under 24 hour video surveillance and most doors have new locks. Instructors should see Kyoshi to obtain a new Medco key for the dojo door. Also, please avoid letting people into the Center if you exit onto 50th St. after class.

The third Annual Weapons Workshop will be held Sunday, Mar. 21 from 10:00am to noon.  Sensei Reymond has again graciously offered to sponsor a weapons workshop in the St. Bart's gymnasium. The event will be open to ni-kyu (brown belts) and above. Ni-kyu with less than one year at rank: this is an opportunity for you to gain exposure to all the traditional Okinawan weapons without having to commit to which one you will eventually pursue.

Our first tip test for 2010 will be held Tuesday, Feb. 16 starting at 5:30 pm.  Candidates should be proficient with basics and kata, as well as some knowledge of Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu USA history. 

In celebration of the Chinese new year, the semi-annual test for green belt through black tips has been scheduled for this Sunday, Feb. 14, starting at 11:00 am in the St. Barts gymnasium.  A vigorous workout will proceed the formal testing.  Advanced students who are not testing, please bring a prepared demonstration for the group.  Family and friends are welcome to observe.

Students world-wide are invited to travel to Florida for five full days of karate workshops and classes, conducted by Hanshi Robert Scaglione, Kyoshi David Baker and high-ranking Shihan from the Florida schools. This is an excellent opportunity to bring your training up a notch, as well as to escape the snows of New York. If you cannot make all events, at least come for the sunrise beach workout on Sunday, Feb. 7.  For full details see Sensei Tamir's schedule. 

The 2009 Annual Black Belt Workout and Dinner will be held over two days this year, starting Sat., Dec. 5 at 11:00 am and Sun., Dec. 6, at 9:00 am. Hanshi Robert Scaglione will preside over both events to be held in the St. Barts Athletic Center. The workouts will include advanced seminars in kata, bunkai, weapons, kumite and breaking. There will also be special demonstrations by all dojo and clubs. Please RSVP to your Shihan by Nov. 15, 2009 regarding your travel plans.

All Midtown students are invited to join Sensei Rob Neff for  an open house at the High School for Leadership & Public Service, 90 Trinity Place (right next to the American Stock Exchange) starting at 3:30. We will be leaving from the Midtown Dojo at about 2:45 to take the subway down town. If you plan to meet us there, simply ask security for directions to the basement.

Please join Sensei Steve Lott and myself for the eighth annual Central Park workout to be held Sunday, Sept. 13, starting at 10:00 AM. Bring sunscreen, water and weapons (excluding nunchuka). Friends and family are also welcome.  

Directions: To mystify this year's location (and encourage an appreciation of Central Park history), please research the following:

Begin at the Central Park borogroves. Follow the path due north. If you reach a glass wall, you've gone too far.

The August tip test and promotion will be held jointly on Sunday, Aug. 9, in the gymnasium of the St. Barts Athletic Center.  The pre-test workout will start at 10:00 am.  Please submit your test materials (paragraph and fee) to your black belt sponsor no later than Thursday, Aug. 4.   

The annual beach workout at Sherwood Island State Park is scheduled for Sunday, July 19, starting at 8:30 am. Students from USRKUSA schools world-wide are encouraged to attend. Changing facilities, showers and rest rooms are available.  Please bring water, sun-screen and weapons.

An informal pool-side picnic/BBQ will be held at the home of Sensei Adam Dunsby afterwards beginning at approximately 1 pm (directions). Domo arigato gozaimasu to Sensei Dunsby and the Easton Ct. Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu Karate Club for their generous hospitality these many years.

The July black belt class has been rescheduled from Thursday, July 2 to Thursday, July 9 in order to accommodate those enjoying an extended July 4th weekend.  

Sensei Rob Neff will be bringing a large group of summer school students from the High School for Leadership & Public Service Karate Club to train at the Midtown Dojo on Wednesday, July 8 during the noon class.  Any green-belt and above is welcome to attend as an "assistant instructor" and work with this enthusiastic group.  

Sensei Richard Vachino will be offering a new class during the summer months on Fridays from noon to 1:00 pm. Both children and adults are welcome at both this class and Sensei's Wednesday noon class. Please note that tuition (either monthly or the per class rate) is half off for the second family member. As school winds down for the summer, please consider training with your children or extended family at our dojo.

Hanshi Robert Scaglione has updated the list of black belt kata requirements.  The new guidelines show both time and rank requirements for all the advanced kata. Note the use of the phrase "may be started." It means advanced deshi are not required to start a new kata even if they meet the qualifications. Hanshi always encourages us to focus on perfecting the kata we know before moving ahead to a new kata.

A green tip test will be held Tuesday, June 16, starting at 6:30 pm. A one-hour workout will precede the test.  Please have your paragraph and fee submitted no later than Monday, June 15th.

Saturday, June 13, we will hold a special workout to mark the one year anniversary of Sensei Eddie Garcia's passing. Please join me at 12 noon, rain or shine, at the East River Park Amphitheatre, located just south of Grand St at the East River [map and directions]  There will be NO classes at the St. Bart's location. 

Those of you who trained with or knew Sensei Garcia personally, please take this opportunity to pay tribute to a remarkable black belt. New students are welcome to join us to glean some of Sensei Garcia's enormous energy as expressed vicariously through his students and colleagues.

The June black belt will be held Thursday, June 11, starting at 5:30 pm, instead of Thursday, June 4th.

A green tip test will be held on Tuesday, April 21, starting at 5:30 pm. Candidates wishing to test should submit their essays and fees to me no later than Friday, April 17.

On Wednesday, April 8, Sensei Carmelo Aleman of the Ueshiro Poinciana Karate Club will be sponsoring a special Guest Instructor class for all levels starting at 7:15 pm. Training with a visiting Shihan is one of the great perks we have as members of USRKUSA. Please take advantage of it.

Domo arigato to Sensei Patrick and Sempai Lisa Markowitz of the Northern Virginia East Meets West Karate Club for publishing the Spring Karate Newsletter (available at www.srkusa.com). This journal continues to evolve as the organization grows. This latest attempt is an impressive work. Use it to familiarize yourself with all the dojo around the world that you must someday visit.

An advanced weapons workshop will be held on Sunday, March 8, from 11:00 to 1:00 pm at the St. Barts Gymnasium. Brown belts and above are encouraged to take advantage of in-depth seminars exploring the weapon of their choice. Brown belts who have not decided which weapon to pursue are welcome to attend and try out the various traditional weapons - we will have extras for you. Domo arigato to Sensei Kevin Reymond for sponsoring this event.

A tip test will be held on February 17, Tuesday, starting at 7:00 pm to accommodate test candidates. Deadline for paragraphs and fees is Friday, Feb. 13.

Our full belt promotion will be held this Sunday, Feb. 15, from 12 noon until 2:00 pm at the St. Barts Gymnasium. This evening (Thursday) is the deadline to submit test materials to Kyoshi via the dojo

Sensei Rob Neff will be hosting a green tip test this Friday, Feb. 13, at the High School for Leadership & Public Service, 90 Trinity Place (right next to the American Stock Exchange) starting at 2:45. Please note that the start time is 15 minutes earlier than previously announced. Students of all levels are welcome to participate. We will be leaving from the Midtown Dojo at about 12:10 to take the subway down town. If you plan to meet us there, simply ask security for directions to the basement.

Classes on the evening of Thursday, March 5, will be open to black belts only,  starting at 5:30 pm. Seasoned black belts are encouraged to assist in the initiation of our three new Sho-dans: Kim Garon, John Draghi and Jonathan Cohen.

Hanshi Robert Scaglione will sponsor numerous training opportunities beginning with a "kick-off" workout at Cocoa Beach conducted by Kyoshi Seeger on Friday evening. Saturday will include training and seminars at the Cocoa YMCA location at 11am and at the Viera Rec Center location at 2pm. Sunday will be training at the Suntree YMCA location at 11am.  Hanshi is also planning a black belt review (black belts only) and kyu level tests (all invited).

The Northampton Pine Forest Dojo will host a black belt test Saturday, Jan. 17, 2009, starting at 10am. Black belts from the Ueshiro Midtown Dojo are encouraged to join Kyoshi Mackay for the trip north to assist with the testing.

A tip test will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 16, beginning at 5:30 pm.  Applicants should review the requirements and submit their test materials no later than Dec. 15.

Our annual holiday workout/compai will be held this Thursday at the Karate Studio, starting at 5:30 pm. All ranks are cordially invited. Traditionally, we work out until about 6:30, then gather in a circle for a round of "compai" (toasting in the new year) with sake or soda. After the compai students and family are welcome to join us for dinner at a local sushi restaurant.

Several students of the Ueshiro Midtown Dojo are offering accommodations to our extended Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu family, so please contact me if you need a place to stay either Friday or Saturday nights.

Please join Kyoshi and Sensei Lott for the 7th Annual USRKUSA Memorial Workout on Sunday, Sept. 14th, from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon. The workout will be held at a new location: the terrace at the east end of Turtle Pond, in front of the statue of King Jagiello (map). Enter Central Park at 79th St. This workout is open to students of all ranks. As per tradition, participants may wear informal training clothes or full gi.

Hanshi Robert Scaglione will preside over this summer's beach workout held at Sherwood Island State Park, starting at 8:30 am, Sunday, July 13. Students from USRKUSA schools world-wide are encouraged to attend. An informal pool-side picnic/BBQ will be held at the home of Sensei Adam Dunsby afterwards beginning at approximately 1 pm (directions). We will use this gathering as an opportunity to remember and compai Sensei Eddie Garcia.

A green tip test will be held Saturday, June 21 from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm, rain or shine. Ik-Kyu Sam Suzuki has offered us access to the beach at Sands Point, Long Island, for a workout and tip test, followed by a BBQ lunch afterwards. Applicants wishing to test for their first or second green tip should contact Kyoshi at their earliest convenience to review the test requirements.

The Spring Northeast road trip will take place at the Mt. Airy Casino Resort, Mt. Pocono, PA, on Saturday, May 10, 2008 from 11:30 am until 2:00 pm. Weather permitting, we will train on the 18th hole Green which sits on a lake and is surrounded by sand traps for Nihanchi kata. The pro shop will be open for bathrooms and changing and a light lunch will be served after the workout for anyone needing nourishment before their ride back. The Grand Ball Room has been reserved in the event of rain. Domo arigato gozaimasu to Sensei Chris Barnes for making the numerous arrangements for this workout. 

Although Northeast Road Trips are intended to be simple half-day conferences in high-caliber training, there are many opportunities for participants to enjoy the area's attractions. Feel free to make this a weekend getaway for you and your family.

For Driving directions visit www.mountairycasino.com. For those using on-board Navigation, type in "Mount Airy Golf Course" for best results.

Barnes Sensei may be reached at cbarnes@mtairycasino.com

A week of celebration in honor of Grand Master Ansei Ueshiro's 75th birthday. Expect many katathons and other tributes.

Domo arigato gozaimasu to Jon Cohen, Ik-Kyu, for designing and producing a full-color flyer about the Ueshiro Midtown Karate School.  Please pick up several copies of the brochure and distribute to family and friends.  Extra copies are available in the left hand side of the storage cabinet, and be sure to thank Jon next time you see him.  An online copy is available here.

The April Green Belt Emphasis class, conducted by Sensei Kevin Reymond, will be held Wednesday, Apr. 9. Students of all levels, including white belts, are encouraged to attend. Additional green belt emphasis classes are scheduled for May 7 and June 4.

A tip test will be held for all eligible candidates on Tuesday, Apr. 8 beginning at 5:30 pm.  Applicants should review the requirements and submit their materials no later than Apr. 7

The April Black Belt class will be held on Thursday, Apr. 3 beginning at 5:30 pm and continuing at 7:15 pm.  Reminder:  black-belt only classes are scheduled for the first Thursday of each month.

The March Green Belt Emphasis class, conducted by Sensei Steve Lott, will be held Wednesday, Mar. 12. Students of all levels, including white belts, are encouraged to attend. Additional green belt emphasis classes are scheduled for Apr. 9, May 7 and June 4.

The USRKUSA Spring 2008 newsletter has just been published. Catch up on what is happening around the world at the various Shorin-Ryu USA Dojo. Domo Arigato Gozaimasu to Sempai Lyle Kleusch, Ni-dan of the Ueshiro Hong Kong Karate Club for producing this edition.

The March Black Belt class will be held on Thursday, Mar. 6 beginning at 5:30 pm and continuing at 7:15 pm.  Reminder:  black-belt only classes are scheduled for the first Thursday of each month.

Our semi-annual full rank promotion will begin at 10:00 am on Sunday in the St. Barts Gymnasium. The workout/test will run until about 1:00 pm. All candidates, judges, and supporters are encouraged to show up and train with much spirit.

Saturday, January 26th, 10:30 am is the grand opening of the Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu Karate U.S.A. East Rockaway Dojo, under the direction of Sensei Boris Grossman. Students of all levels, particularly beginners, are encouraged to attend the workout; advanced students: be prepared to participate in demonstrations.

Regular classes will be held next Monday, Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday. All students are encouraged to reflect on Dr. King's philosophy of non-violence, and especially on how such values become mandated the higher we progress in rank.

The Weapons Workshop is this Sunday, January 20, 2008 from 10:00 am to noon in the gymnasium at St. Bart's. Brown belts and above are welcome to participate.

The green tip test, scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 15, will be held for those white belt candidates prepared to test at this time.  White belts unable to make this Tuesday's test will have another opportunity on Sunday, February 10.