American Tigers Karate Dojo  954-985-5523

Master The Basics

Once upon a time not so long ago a Sensei of a small town in Georgia, trained many students in the Arts and Sciences of USA Goju. Prospective students came to him from near and far away. Sensei chose his pupils very carefully and many were turned away. My greatest acomplishment at that time was to be one of the chosen few, I was filled with pride to be a member of such an elite Dojo.

The rules were simple, Nothing is Free, everyone works, every one starts at the bottom, Karate is not a sport is a Martial Art, you either love it or you hate it. Those of us that remained faithful quite a large number LOVED It. Today he is the Founder of Pan-American Gojuryu. Sinclair Leroy Thorne a native of Colon, Panama began his studies of Karate at an early age in Panama under Fausto Andrade and continued with William Louie in NYC. Hanshi Thorne eventually became a student of Grand Master Peter Urban and trained at Urban Monastery in New Jersey and was assigned Goju Hall #267. Hanshi Thorne has produced several black belts throughout the United States and abroad. He is not only a 9th Dan in USA Goju, but have black belts in numerous styles; including tae kwon do and kung fu. He has been practicing over 40 years. One of his most faithful,loyal and dedicated students is one of his top instructor Renshi Deloise C. Thorne (his wife) who has been practicing over 30 years. They are the two top instructors in the Eagle Dojo. Pan American Goju Ryu includes all traditional Goju Katas, Master Urban ten minimum standards and Seven Pan American Katas.

"The Karate phylosophy of calmness and confidence is the anti-thesis of aggression aggressomp amd omji, amotu"

Pan-American Gojuryu

Pan-American Goju Ryu means hard and soft. Go (hard) Ju (soft). There are many foot and hand techniques which are taught for primary training and physical development. This method of trainingalso disciplines the mind, soul and body. Pan-American Karate involves close combat fighting skills and jujutsu techniques. Weapons are taught after the students have advanced in empty hand fighting. The systemis broken down into belt levels for kyu, 10th kyu to 1st kyu. White, yellow, orange,green, purple, brown 3rd, 2nd and 1st kyu. Black belts range from 1st Dan to 10th Dan. Dan means Man or can be translated as degree. To be promoted students must show minimal proficiency in various katas, techniques, breaking, history and Japanese terrminology. Students are tested on self control, mental attitude, as well as discipline.

Sunday, January 25, 2009

You Can't touch this
How could you be sure that your teachings will be received the same exact way that you projected it? Is it ok to sacrifice quality for quantity? Is it more important to risk loosing a good one to retain a bad one? Lets be real, we all have cars some are cheap some are moderately priced some are expensive and others are simply out of reach for you and me. What determines the price tag of these vehicles? The answer is perceived value based on quality, reputation and historical data of the model in question. Automobiles are machines designed to get us from one point to another, but these machines are not able to transport us from point A to point B without human intervention, they will be able to do it some day but the day has not yet arrived; with this in mind it is safe to assume that traveling the streets of the world in a safe and responsible manner is done by employing good driving habits in an alert and vigilant way, regardless of the quality or price tag of the vehicle. However there is a very small percentage of probability that the driver regardless of his/her expertise, for what ever reason could be involved in an accident, that is when the quality of the vehicle comes in to play. The fancy rims will not help you; the fancy lights will not help you, the sound system, and the built in TV, the fancy dashboard or any of these impressive extras that many people love to have to impress. That is when the engineering, the seat belts, the air bags. The suspension, the bumpers, the doors, the fenders come in to play; And if you did your homework before buying your vehicle there is a high percentage of probability that no lives will be lost. What does this have to do with the three questions I posted above? Answer: everything this is an exercise on deceptive practices, if you look closely you will see that question number two was answered out of sequence using unexpected words and examples, the straight answer is NO. Lets talk about high speed internet, The speed of the transmission is determined when the signal leaves the source, if you are close to the source the received speed is about the same, the further away you are the receiving speed will be less and less until you no longer receive any speed of transmission at all. In Martial Arts the source is the Master, The speed is the knowledge of execution. The received speed is the effort you put in to it. Close to the source is your attendance, concentration level and willingness to learn, the further away you are is not emptying your cup to receive new knowledge, missing classes, been late to classes, closing your mind to new concepts and arguing. You no longer receive any speed at all is becoming stagnated, falling behind, moving backwards instead of forward, dropping out of the program. The answer to number one is I can only guess I really do not know till many years after my initial contact with a student whether they learned real karate or not. My thirty plus years experience in teaching has revealed many sprinters, great ability to memorize the moves, show good fighting potential but unable to make it to the 2nd round this group usually only goes as far as yellow belts; I am worried about this kind of people they are quitters and will have a difficult time in school, work and relationships; hopefully their parents are still around to help them to find themselves with medication and expensive psycho therapy, when this could have been resolved with a good Martial Arts education that promotes not giving up. There is another group these are known as the fun seekers as long as it comes easy to them they are always around, as the material gets harder they begin to fall apart, if they get hit hard or beat up at a competition they no longer want to be around the dojo they begin to miss classes, find other activities but they never really give up because the memory of the fun times is still fresh and a good instructor will find a way to help these students work out the fear of failure and eventually graduate them to black belts this group under the right sensei will become great Martial Arts instructors. The last group is the pretenders these are the people that suffer from low self esteem, but no one ever knows till is too late. They make good white to brown belts but they feel that they do not deserve to be black belts; they fear the black belt test more than death itself, because they believe that their secret will be revealed. In my 30 years of black belt testing no one has been discovered on that day itself, so the fears are only in their minds. It takes a great instructor to make the right decision and find alternative ways to help these students overcome the fear of success and to accept the fact that yes they can be anything they want to be. If the sensei fails them these individuals will be lost forever as they are good enough to pretend on school on the job in relationships but they will have to settle for partial happiness and satisfaction as the reason for the low self esteem has not been resolved. On the other hand if the master succeeds these people will go on to do amazing things up to and including the highest achievement of mankind. The Answer to question number 3 is NO as you do not know the good students from the bad students. Now lets go back to number two The reason we train in the Martial Arts is for quality purpose to be like that overpriced automobile that no bad minded person, scam artist, thieve, murderer, rapist, abusive partner can take advantage of, because when they look at you they will see class, dignity and prestige with an attitude that says “YOU CAN’T TOUCH THIS” Remember the tournament February 7th, 2009 we are looking for 100% participation lets show our students what a good traditional tournament looks and feels like and be mindful of the way they begin the transformation in developing class, dignity and prestige. Armando Colbourne, Kyoshi, Pan-American Goju http://panamericangoju.com http://mafonline.net
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Thursday, October 2, 2008

Make it Right
As we close our best month ever, I ask myself how? According to the media we are in a recession, the goverment is about to approve a 700 billion dollars bail out plan to save our economy; Foreclosures are all around us, jobs are scarce and those that have jobs are far from living in comfort. Gas and food prices are extremely high, but some how we continue to live. There is a group of people that no matter what is the economic situation of the country they continue to live as usual, they are very disciplined, great planners and know what to do and when to do it, so there is no surprise that while the rest of the world is in panic they are taking advantage of the situation. To answer my question these individuals realize that at times like these Karate training is the best alternative to keep focus on who and what they are. Let me give you an example Joe is a single parent he is raising a son and a daughter, he lives from pay check to pay check, Joe wakes up early takes a shower, gets dressed wakes up his son 12 and his daughter 9, while they shower and get dress he prepares breakfast and turns on the television, the negativity of the news begins to beat him down, conditioning his mind to believe that we are living in a hopeless situation. The family rushes while eating breakfast and he drops his kids to school and he rushes to his job. All during that time he is listening to the radio but instead of hearing negative messages only he is getting positive solutions to the problems around him but he is unable to put all that great advice into action because he is a slave to his job and every moment of free time goes to his kids. Joe has been doing this for over 3 years since his wife went home to be with the Lord, Joe is working hard, saving what little penny is left over but there is never any money, he is one pay check away from bankruptcy and he feels hopeless. Since Joe is having a hard time making ends meet the kids are misbehaving because Joe is reflecting his situation on the children, the Kids aspire to be just like dad so if he is defeated so are they. One evening during an open house at his daughter school Joe and kids noticed a group of kids in Martial Arts attire and 3 adults surrounded by many of the daughter class mates and their parents and every one is smiling and having fun so they decided to investigate and it turned out to be that one decision that changed their lives for ever. When times are bad the best solution is to work on your self, you are the asset in your situation and the only way to change your situation is to improve the way you feel about your self. Martial Arts give you confidence, focus, discipline, courage and the best stress relief medicine ever invented. Joe was lucky he answered the call to transformed his situation, there are still many that have failed to answer the call and continue to live hard instead of smart. Be a friend to some one you love share the joy that you have found in Karate training and help save a life. Armando Colbourne usagojukarate@bellsouth.net (954) 985-5523
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Saturday, August 30, 2008

Our Culture is Right
In House Competition Results “We walk by faith not by sight”, as we prepare for the upcoming open tournaments Sep 13th at Millennium middle school, The Karate and Kung Fu Olympic Games October 25th, The MAF free tournament on November 15th and the long awaited black belt seminar and promotion on December 19th and 20. The South Florida Pan-American Goju and The Martial Arts Foundation joined forces at the request of the practitioners and proceeded to make the in house competition at the American Tigers Karate Dojo a one of a kind experience. Armand 3rd place Forms and Sparring, Christine 1st place Sparring 2nd place Forms, Mark 1st place Forms, 2nd place Sparring. Marcus 3rd place Forms, 4th place Sparring, Davion 3rd place Forms 3rd place Sparring, Matthew 1st place Forms 2nd place Sparring, Rajim 1st place Sparring, 2nd place Forms. Johanna 3rd place Sparring, 3rd place Forms, Keyanna 3rd place Forms 4th place Sparring, Demario 2nd place Sparring and Forms, Jamila 1st place Sparring and Forms. The purpose of this event was to design a road map for continuo’s improvement and we did it. Special Thanks to Sensei Mabson, The judges were The following Black belts: James, Desmond, Mark and Danovan way to go fellows. Parents thank you for your support it epitomizes the phrase children’s first. Madeline Allen was the score keeper great job. As the weeks go on we will continue to follow the road map and correct all the deficiencies that have been exposed in the as real as it gets competition. Johanna and Mark were awarded the perfect attendance trophy. Keyanna was selected as the best fighting spirit and was awarded a school tee shirt. Black belt full contact fight Mark and Desmond I am proud of you guys. In every Dojo in the world there is a certain culture a chemistry that bonds the practitioners together, but this can only be achieved with a feeling of ownership, we own our emotions, we rightfully claim what we learn, teach and perform, attendance is the number one requirement, the more you train the better you are. Karate is not a sport is an Art and it requires the commitment and respect that an Art deserves. Not so long ago I taught at an Aikido school although the practitioners were physically impressive, time has revealed their mental and spiritual weakness in the face of adversity. I now know that the reason for this was the way they view my Karate as a sport not an Art, I assumed full responsibility for this outcome. In order to remedy this travesty I am officially informing all old students that effective October 1st, 2008 all ranks will revert to 10th kyu. As for the present students the culture and chemistry is perfect, I am so happy when I’m in my student’s presence and there is no greater joy than to see the development that each one of you has made. As we embark on this journey of open tournaments I want you all to focus on the right thing, every event is a learning experience is a tool to lead you to excellence in all facets of your life, the student that places last is just as important as the student that places first. One of my best students of all times has never won a competition but this person is instrumental in keeping our country safe. Do not make a big deal about your placing or ranking just focus on becoming the best Martial artist you can be and all other things will fall in the rigth respective places. God bless you all Armando Colbourne
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Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Ball of Confusion
Way back in the 70ths. The temptations made a song call ball of confusion that’s what the world is today. The lyrics of the song pretty well described what seems to be the worst time in history. We have been through the best and worst of times, and some how we managed to get by. We do not have control of the circumstances around us, war in Iraq, terrorism, gas prices, unemployment, lay offs, foreclosures and the list goes on; However we do have control of the way we react to these situations, whether we are positive or negative the situation is going to take its course as predetermined by destiny. It is important to learn to live as a warrior, set your self up to be victorious regardless of the obstacles that may come your way. Have you noticed that people that are cheap are always broke; people that are constantly sharing are filling with abundance. It’s a universal law that follows the principles set forth in the Word. You live by the sword you die by the sword, Live every day to the fullest and are brave, give to Cesar what is of Cesar and Give to God what is of God. True character is revealed when times are bad, it is easy to be successful when every thing is in your favor but when lesser men and women true weaknesses are revealed in times of trial can you walk in victory, can you be faithful to your calling and be the best husband/wife, parent, child, coworker, student and martial artist. I remember back in 1994 as I was getting ready to open the Old American Tiger Dojo on SR 7/ 441 I was violating the 25 miles agreement between me and my old school, I was introduced to the Black Dragon but I was warned that when I met with him to tell the truth because he could tell if some one was lying to him; I never forgot that encounter and the words of warning, I said to myself, who is this guy that is able to read minds. Fourteen years later I find myself able to identify in my conversation even over the phone if some one is truthful or not, I guess it comes with experience but when I am not sure I pray. I will like every one that knows me to respect me enough to be straight up, I am one of the most understanding persons that you will ever meet, lying is a sin and when you do it you are playing Russian roulette with your destiny and your future as no one know when God is going to call your number. True Martial Arts teaches us to be truthful to our mind, body and spirit, regardless of the world decaying situation it is our duty to emerge above the ills of society. One Black belt at a time is the only way to create the leaders of society, that will rejoice in honesty, truth, respect, courtesy, sharing and are not intimidated by the forces of evil and will boldly stand firm on the principles set forth in the Bible. As I close I will like to challenge each one of my students around the world to start walking in victory from this day forward and every day of your life, by training hard, by paying your dues, by listening to the spirit of God that lives inside of you and allowing him to direct you to higher spiritual understanding of your purpose on earth. I will also like to make a commitment to continue to teach exciting classes and keep studying, working hard, praying, to become and to remain the best Karate teacher in the world that is still known by many as a ball of confusion, but all we have to do is thrust Jehovah Jireh, the one who sees my needs and provides for them. Armando Colbourne
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Tuesday, January 1, 2008

Prayer 2008
YES! GOD’S GRACE – MERCY – FAVOR – PATIENCE = HIS LOVE FOR US Goals & Prayers for 2008 Thank you Lord for the GOALS, PRAYERS & BLESSINGS you have answered in 2007 OH DEAR LORD THAT YOU WILL BLESS US INDEED. THAT YOU WILL ENLARGE OUR TERRITORY DAILY. THAT YOU HANDS WILL ALWAYS BE WITH US, THAT YOU WILL KEEP US FROM ALL EVIL AND KEEP US FROM CAUSING PAIN TO OTHERS. Dear God we are grateful and thankful that you are Lord of our lives – you are our Lord and Savior. We know and have proven time and time again that without you in our lives we are nothing, unable to accomplish or produce anything in life. Therefore, God we come to you on bended knees and opened hearts asking for your guidance, direction, and ordering of our footsteps daily as you protect us in 2008. Lord we pray that no weapons formed against us should ever prosper and any tongue that rises up against us should be condemned in your name. We thank you God for forgiveness of our sins and pray that in 2008 we will be shielded and covered by the blood of your son, JESUS CHRIST. Help us Lord to never lean on our own understanding, but to always acknowledge you in all things to give us the wisdom and strength to handle every situation we must handle in our lives (Proverbs 3:5) Lord, please let us always be reminded that any battles and giants that come up against us is not ours, but yours… Help us Lord to always reflect and remember that you have helped us to conquer other giants in our lives so many times before. Lord, remind us to always be producers of your will so that we will not be cut down by your judgment. (Numbers 23:19 – God we know that everything about you is true because you are not a man, that you should lie; neither the son of man, that should repent; whatever you sow that is what you do ---thank you. Lord, please continue to be our Light and Salvation – give us the patience to wait on You and to know that You will contend with those things that contends with us. Please put favor over our entire lives so that when others see us they will know that you have sent us. 1. Lord, help us to continue to put you first in everything we do and say, let us always worship you in spirit and in truth. 2. Guide us in our monthly prayer/bible studies 3. Lord, bless us with our heart’s desire to sell our Westgate property for a reasonable profit this year. 4. Take away the spirit of not understanding and forgetfulness, but grant us wisdom. 5. Help me to be a better Reading Coach than I was in 2007. Increase my knowledge to help the teachers and students that I come in contact and work with daily in Reading. 6. Bless our Karate school and let it continue to grow with new students. 7. Thank you for Katrina’s acceptance letters to the University of Florida and all the other universities. Please guide her to select the university that you want her to attend. 8. Bless, cover and keep watch over everything that Armando Jr. and Katrina must face in 2008. 9. Keep watch over, bless, guide and protect Jovie, DeAngelo, Jourdan, Monica, Alex, Anissa, Alex, Kevin, Roxanne, Kiarra, Kaila and Ashley. 10. Keep watch over, bless, guide and protect, Vida, Tiffany, Tony and Mark. 11. Bless our home and all of our family members who are not named here. Lord, we lift them up to you daily. 12. Father God we commit ourselves to you and ask that you never leave nor forsake us in 2008. WE THANK YOU LORD FOR ALWAYS HEARING OUR PRAYERS – WE PRESENT EVERYTHING TO YOU WITH PRAYERS AND THANKSGIVING IN JESUS NAME AMEN…AMEN..
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Saturday, December 22, 2007

Super White Belts
What an unbelievable year, if you told me at the beginning or even the middle of the year that our lives will have changed in such a dramatic fashion, I would have said science fiction. The concept of super white belts started one day in June when a father brought his 5 year old son for karate lessons the father observed his son in training for 1 month and decided to stop the spectator mode and start participating. During this time the big move to the permanent location took place, and that decision went unnoticed. While teaching one Saturday class to my surprised I observed father and son displaying all my teachings almost to perfection and quickly came to the realization that these individuals were special so I quickly began to pour out the best of my knowledge, based on 30 years teaching experience and the result is the most famous quote in our system long history, the super white belts. One of our school old saying was “create an environment geared for excellent training”. Consequently, the new students step in to this newly formed Dojo and every single white belt from this glorious day of discovery till the present has developed into super white belts, this is so great and contagious that we can’t stop it even if we wanted to stop it. From my perspective it worked out great, these guys are attentive, dedicated, hard workers, talented and never ever miss a class. They have been introduced to the circle and they love it. As a result the yellow, Orange, Blue and Brown belts have been infected with the desire to constantly improve in every aspect of karate training and the results are proudly displayed in the tournaments winning records. Due to the competitive nature of our business and our charter that prohibits double promotions, these guys will go through the process of spending training time in each belt level, as for the prodigal sons and daughters that are doing things the old way, poor attendance, acting as if the dojo needs them, our board has determined that to maintain the integrity of our system and training requirements any student who has an excessive amount of absences will be required to undergo a proficiency test of Kata, self defense, Kumite and survive the circle on their feet to be eligible to retain rank in USA/Pan-American Goju Ryu Martial Combatives. The Super White belts have been exposed to the most rigorous training that is usually reserved for green belts and above and the results are promising, Combinations, advance kicking, sparring strategies, grappling, bunkai, setsume, one steps, continuo’s combat and we will be having a Mixed Martial Arts competition for the new year’s. I have given you the end result which is great, today we held the circle in our Saturday two hour class and I made sure that Mando, Mark and Clarke were present and once again we push them to the limit, the class was so great that another spectator an adult lady joined our program and guess what she sparred and did great. Let me mention the hard road that got us to this point. Two knee injuries to my two best Brown belts Becky and Delio. I moved to the new location, lost lots of students. More expenses than before, rent, light, phone regardless of usage of space. The death of Michael Robinson; Jordan and Matthew Dad. One of my fellows Black Belts Sensei turned his back on Christianity. And many other set backs to insignificant to mention. In my heart I knew that God was getting ready to bless us, he took us through the fire and prepared us to receive his blessings, every single day I leave my Dojo totally satisfied with all the wonderful things that are manifesting God’s love in our lives. The students that started this revolution of super white belts, The Father name is Karl and the Son is Khalil, they are now yellow belts and good ones. The Torch is now carried by Jordan, Matthew, DiMario, Davion, Chad, Johanna. As we end this year we will like to mention our staff and students that excel in 2007. Martial Artist of the Year Armando Jr. Did a series of Martial Arts demonstrations in central and north Florida and received great reviews from the media and spectators. Instructors of the Year: Mark and Mr. Clarke for numerous classes and providing excellent training and partially responsible for the development of the super white belts. Assistant Instructor of the year: Earl. Scholar of the Year: Desmond for graduating from college and looking for his own Dojo. Coach of The Year: Becky for displaying her wisdom at the karate Olympics instrumental in bring in home the gold medal. Competitors of the Year: Joshua and Kenya Gold medals Karate Olympics. Blue belt students of the year: Jamila and Imani. Orange belt student of the year: Keyanna. Yellow belt students of the year: Karl and Khalil. Yellow belt competitor of the year: Ebony. White belt student of the year: Jordan. White belt best attitude: DiMario. White belt best Kata: Matthew. White belt best fighter: Davion. White belt most improved: Johanna. White belt Rookie of the year: Chad. I will like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Years 2008. Remember God is in control always so do not despair, walk in victory. Armando Colbourne Sr. Kyoshi, S.O.H.F Founder: American Tigers Karate Dojo
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Saturday, November 10, 2007

Olympia Games
Joshua and Kenya heavy favorites to win gold medal did just that while re-writing Olympia games history. Joshua is the first American tiger to win first place in kata performing maestro Urban,s master piece super empi at the NKKU Olympia games held in Savannah Georgia 10/27/2007 and the second overall to win using this kata at a major competition; the first to do it was Armando Jr. in 1997, at Ernie Reynolds Black Dragon open tournament in Fort Lauderdale. Kenya won the silver with the Pan-American version of rising sun, they both won first place in sparring and gold medals. Kalilh won 2 bronze medals and karl won 2 gold medals, they both performed chin choi kata to perfection. What is truly amazing is the road traveled and the dedication and commitment of these practitioners. Joshua and Kenya together with their remarkable mother join the program while Sensei Colbourne taught some classes at The Community book and dance club, they continued at the Aikido center and they are with us at the new location in westpark. Kalilh and Karl joined at the Aikido center after two months the school moved to his present location and they moved with us. What a blessing to have them as part of our Dojo, they sacrificed time, money, adversity, controversy and they hardly ever miss a class. Lets get ready for next year Olympia games in October, Gainesville Challenge in March and Florida State Championships in Tallahassee in May, Black belt training Camp in May and Black belt 3rd and 4th dan promotion during the training camp. Black Belt 1st dan promotion in December 2008. confirmed candidates Becky, Joshua, Earl, Kenya, Christopher, you MAF Free Tournament Keanna won the Gold in self defense, bronze in Kata Kalilh won bronze in self Defense and Kata. Karl won the silver in self defense and the bronze in Kata. Ebony won the Silver in Self Defense and the Bronze in Kata. We elected not to spar due to time constraints. To make up for this on thanks giving week end 11/24th 2008 we will have an in house competition and belt promotion to accommodate Jourdan, Matthew and DeMario who were not able to attend this Event
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Saturday, July 14, 2007

Balance
Just imagine what life would be like if every one was EVIL. Just think about it, now imagine what it will be like if every one was good. Think about it, the good book says that this is quite possible but not while we are alive. Oriental culture is based on the premise that one can’t exist without the other; this concept of living is based on fundamental teachings that go back to the beginning of this world ancient cultures. The Ying and Yang sign illustrates this school of thinking, every positive action has a equally negative reaction and they suggest that you should find a way to live in the middle, between good and bad, mind your own business and do not choose sides and you will flow like a river and your survival rate will be much higher. All martial arts styles teach this concept, some more than others, but lets keep it in proper perspective. Inside every living organism they are two forces positive and negative energy. It is said that you are at your optimum peak when the energies are balanced, too much of one or the other can kill you. American culture is based on the concept of choosing sides, democrat or republican, white collar or blue collar; and we are willing to fight until the end for our beliefs. This concept of been in harmony with the universe and all living creatures is Chinese to us. So how do we live in such a society as martial artists with the knowledge of proper balance and the necessity to stand up for what we believe? I am going to tell you what worked for me and my loyal students. I am a Christian martial artist; we took out the religion out of the traditional Goju ryu and incorporated the word of God. Learn to dwell on the good; reprogram your thinking. If you will transform your mind, God will transform your life Start your life by making quality decisions every day choosing the good while rejecting the bad. Word of advice if you are having a bad day, guard what you say do not allow any negative words to come out of your mouth, don’t talk about the problem talk about the solution. God will keep us in balance learn to be obedient, have a personal relationship with your lord and savior. We are on a mission to take back our communities one block at a time. We cant continue to pretend that we can shield the young ones from the negative forces of life, the music on the radio, TV and the internet is educating the young ones, many of us are working extra hard to provide for our families that we don’t have the time to teach the young one’s about drugs, sex, personal relationships and school. Kids need to fail in school if they do not know the material, they need to see homeless people, and they need to see alcoholics, drug addicts that way we can teach them about it properly. You do not want the wrong person teaching your kids; choose wisely the wrong friend can destroy a person. Kids of today have to persevere, have them get jobs and if the work that they get paid to do is not satisfactory they should be fired; teach them what they did wrong and turn the negative into a positive learning experience they will thank you later. Stop running from people who are less fortunate, just be at your best at all times good habits rub off and you might just bless some one else. How do we develop strong character? By telling the truth, living the truth and rejoicing in the truth. I speak to parents on a daily basis requesting information on my karate program, I’m not sure what many parents are looking for but I answer the questions and move on. Let me explain my program in a nutshell, it is not a day care, it is not a place to come out and have a good time, it is not another place to spoil your child with your money. It is a Dojo, people come to me to learn my way of life, I am a nice person outside the Dojo inside the dojo I am strict, demanding and very pushy, my word is the law and I fail mediocre practitioners and demote conceited practitioners that refuse to mentally mature. I just made a hard decision, stop teaching at the aikido center and concentrate all my efforts on the location that I own. Some students are mad, others are happy but God’s in control. Many great memories at the old location and some sad ones like the day Michael Garret and his mom had to endure the verbal attacks of the owner of the old location I never forgot that incident that was a dark day in my teaching career. The good memories the first class with Patrick, the day Damian joined, the day Katherine defeated a purple belt as a yellow belt, the first time I saw Delio fight, Deanne first tournament, the development of Danny from a question mark to one of the best and the list goes on. The highlight of my teaching came at the Karate Olympics when Gio, Sebastian and Mickey represented our school it was a great feeling. We are ready to do it again in Broward Joshua, Kenya, Becky, Karl, Kahlil, Jazmin, Jamila, Keanna, Makeyla, rabonni, Rashad, Imani, TJ, Chris and those that will be coming in the future, we will take their talents to higher levels. Armando Jr., Katrina, Mark, Desmond, Donovan and Winnie as members of the Masters club; we have a job to do a very noble mission to change our communities from the inside out. Let me close by using and excerpt from Joel Osteen Stop talking to God about how big your mountains are and start talking to your mountains about how big your God is! Armando Colbourne
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Saturday, May 19, 2007

The Book
YOU SAY GOD SAYS BIBLE VERSES You say: "It's impossible" God says: All things are possible (Luke 18:27) You say: "I'm too tired" God says: I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28-30) You say: "Nobody really loves me" God says: I love you (John 3:16 & John 3:34 ) You say: "I can't go on" God says: My grace is sufficient (II Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15) You say: "I can't figure things out" God says: I will direct your steps (Proverbs 3:5-6) You say: "I can't do it" God says: You can do all things (Philippians 4:13) You say: "I'm not able" God says: I am able (II Corinthians 9:8) You say: "It's not worth it" God says: It will be worth it (Roman 8:28 ) You say: "I can't forgive myself" God says: I Forgive you (I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1) You say: "I can't manage" God says: I will supply all your needs (Philippians 4:19) You say: "I'm afraid" God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear (II Timothy 1:7) You say: "I'm always worried and frustrated" God says: Cast all your cares on ME (I Peter 5:7) You say: "I'm not smart enough" God says: I give you wisdom (I Corinthians 1:30) You say: "I feel all alone" God says: I will never leave you or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5) PASS THIS ON. Believe God is there just for you... YOU NEVER KNOW WHO MAY BE IN NEED I received this in an e-mail a few months back. I dont know who sent it to me, I found out that many practitioners around the world visit this site frequently thank you for your input. Many have requested membership in the Pan-American Goju Association, please be patient all applications have been received and the decision process takes about 3 months, we need to know exactly who we are dealing with. We need to see a digital clipping on dvd, cd or e-mail of your self performing your Katas, Self-defense, sparring. We also need to see you teaching classes. I have received pictures and rank certifications that is great but I must see you in action to be able to make a determination of where you've been, where you at and where we can take you as part of our organization. I read a lot, newspapers, magazines, internet literature, personal development books but what I've learned is to be socially correct. I know how to get along with others very well and who to stay away from is all common sense. For example: you call some one several times and they don't return your call is a no brainer. You call some one but they are always busy and they are never able to call you back, they are either the world worse administrator or they just don't want to be bother with you, another no brainer. Lets try this one: We, the ones that are blessed to live in America the land of opportunity, but there is some one that things are always so bad and they always need to be borrowing money from you and never pay you back. What is going on here? e-mail me your response. Lets try this one: This is for the Senseis when you had a few students every one seems to like you, God bless you with more students your sensei friends are gone. Whats up with this?. It doesn't take a Master in Education or martial arts to figure out what's going on in your life, something inside of you gives you the answers that you need for every situation. It's up to you to listen to the inner voice or not. My cousing Roberto Whittinham in 1970 took the practice test that is given to to college students to become registered nurses he scored a 94. He was a high school drop out at the time. after that incident he joined the United States Air Force completed his college degree and retired as an officer. I say this to say we will never really know how great we really are. A job does not define you. Your friends do not define your degree does not define you. Your spouse do not define you. After Jesus was crucified, the disciples were afraid, rightfully so they lost their leader, the greatest leader of all times, how would you have reacted?. But after the resurection Jesus appeared to them and gave them the Holy spirit, the disciples were no longer afraid and they went out and preached the gospel and wrote the new testament. The best Book you will ever read is the Bible. Do it today, The Holy Spirit that lives inside all of us will guide you for ever. Walk in Victory. I will like to thank my friend Dr. Sinclair Thorne, Hanshi 9th dan USA Goju his rank and title do not define him, his love for Jesus does, every one that has had the pleasure of meeting him agrees. I will like to thank my other friend Balfour Wright God has blessed him with 3 mega Dojos some of his friends are gone, you are better off without them they were never your friends. God is in control. I will like to make a request to the entire Martial Arts world to Pray for my Cousing Alex Colbourne who was involved in a serious motorcycle accident some time back, he is out of the hospital and recovering at home he lost one of his legs but he is alive and we all love him so much. Today, I heard the symphony that Urban spoke so much about as I watched Joshua and Mickey perform super empi together, what a wonderful display of precision, accuracy, concentration and love for the art they practice. Any time I feel like I am not making a difference God reveals himself to me. Thank you Father. Don't you love it when a plan comes together. Keene Niblack a man of God he is going to make a big difference in this world. Armando Colbourne, servant
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Saturday, March 17, 2007

Inner Peace
Merciful Father. Sometimes I seek a feeling instead of a presence. I long to escape to a peaceful place, but you want me to experience Your peace in this place. Help me to abandon my search for Your gifts, Your blessings even your peace. Let me seek you, for in seeking you, I will discover all of these and more. Unknown. You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. Isaiah 26:3 Two years ago I hosted the black belt training camp in my Dojo, as I looked around the room during the self defense portion Leroy came up to me and said look at our sons, as we both focus on Mando and James working the techniques with each other; for a brief moment I was taken back in time in remembrance of the way we worked many techniques for very long periods of time in the early stages of our development. It is amazing to me that we ended up doing what we enjoyed the most. We never planned to be Sensei’s all we wanted to do was to train. As I look back thru the rear view mirror of my life I’m certain now that because of my faith and karate many blessings have come our way. We never joined a gang, never became alcoholics, never became drug addicts, never became haters, and always enjoyed helping others and giving our families the best life possible. What is the one thing you will continue to do if you hit the lotto? Teach Karate. Will you still go to work if they stop paying you? Of course not. Why do you still teach what you hope to accomplish? Self-confidence does not come naturally for many children, but rather it is developed over a period of time. As children accomplish new goals, their confidence level increases. Children become more self-confident in our Karate Program because they progress individually at their own pace and are not compared to others. Self-defense. Children’s self-defense takes many forms. First we teach Strategic Defense; this deals with how to handle intimidation and aggression from other kids without feeling awkward, scared, or nervous. Next, we teach Actual Defense; this physical training addresses actual situations that may occur in social settings or while at play. Our program empowers kids with the tools to react properly to threats from other kids. Coordination. Karate challenges the entire body developing incredible balance, agility, speed, poise, and coordination. Many of these attributes are already required to enjoy other sports but our program actually builds these latent talents. Children get very excited when they see themselves getting faster and stronger and begin to excel in their favorite sports. Self-Discipline. Probably one of the best benefits that your child will receive from training in our Children’s Program will be the personal discipline that carries forward into other areas of life. Whether it’s respect for adults, family, peers and oneself to build healthy relationships or the self-discipline needed focus and concentrate to complete tasks and get better grades—you will quickly notice an improvement in these areas. Physical Fitness. With video games, computers, the Internet, and passive team sports attracting your child’s attention—the need and opportunity for vigorous activity has diminished. Lets face it—kids aren't going to run on a treadmill and most activities available to them involve “bench sitting” or “waiting for their turn”. In a single class at our Academy your child will experience an elevation in heart rate, an increase in flexibility, plus strengthening & conditioning that will quickly get them to level of fitness they can be proud of. Fun. Lastly but most importantly is the excitement, fun, and enjoyment each child gets out of class from burning off all that extra energy. In fact, this is the #1 reason our program is so effective at improving the quality of life for kids. Although classes are tightly structured to focus and educate young minds, our highly trained instructors are dedicated to keep a child eager and motivated to learn more. That is my main focus in the 18 years old and younger program. In my adult program they get many of the children benefits plus the opportunity to have a program tailor made for them individually. Your school is different than the other goju schools, further more is different than any school I have seen in America? A great Martial Artist once said take what is useful and discard what is not useful. My first USA Goju instructor William Louie was also a kung fu sifu, he gave us an approach to teaching that few know about and fewer have implemented in their daily teachings. His methodology is the only accepted principle for teaching in the Pan-American Karate world. The other variable is the fact that both Hanshi Thorne and myself briefly studied with the late Mosses Powell. He was a remarkable man and I never forget his teaching philosophy stiff and rigid is unnatural for human beings always flow. There is two main facets to our logic we teach you freestyle concepts from white to purple belts, and we teach you goju concepts from brown to black belt. However we teach the goju Katas from day one. Some say that your style should be jeet kune do? I will let the founder explain. “I have not invented a "new style," composite, modified or otherwise that is set within distinct form as apart from "this" method or "that" method. On the contrary, I hope to free my followers from clinging to styles, patterns, or molds. Remember that Jeet Kune Do is merely a name used, a mirror in which to see "ourselves". . . Jeet Kune Do is not an organized institution that one can be a member of. Either you understand or you don't, and that is that. There is no mystery about my style. My movements are simple, direct and non-classical. The extraordinary part of it lies in its simplicity. Every movement in Jeet Kune-Do is being so of itself. There is nothing artificial about it. I always believe that the easy way is the right way. Jeet Kune-Do is simply the direct expression of one's feelings with the minimum of movements and energy. The closer to the true way of Kung Fu, the less wastage of expression there is. Finally, a Jeet Kune Do man who says Jeet Kune Do is exclusively Jeet Kune Do is simply not with it. He is still hung up on his self-closing resistance, in this case anchored down to reactionary pattern, and naturally is still bound by another modified pattern and can move within its limits. He has not digested the simple fact that truth exists outside all molds; pattern and awareness is never exclusive. Again let me remind you Jeet Kune Do is just a name used, a boat to get one across, and once across it is to be discarded and not to be carried on one's back”. Bruce Lee. Mr. Lee made this famous but many others including my previous instructors followed this model of thinking and evolved it further by putting order to the teachings first clinging to styles and patterns and then freedom of expression from 1st dan to 5th dan levels of teaching. Ask, receive and feel good about it. If you can think it, you will live it. Armando Colbourne
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Saturday, February 10, 2007

Every one calls me Sensei
It is hard to believe that I have been teaching at the aikido center for 3 years. The original plan was to test the waters, develop top quality students and move on. I ran a report on my former students and came to the realization that a large number of them would have been testing for brown or black belt on February 24th, 2007. Many of my previous students left me with great memories Damian was perhaps the best kata practitioner and a great point fighter and he won the FIST championship the only year he competed. Angelo a great motivator and had the makings of a great karate instructor. Katherine was never allowed to go to a tournament but had she gone she will be in karate today; she is a people person with a burning desire to be the best. Patrick was at the top of his game, he made me realize the effectiveness of the style we teach. Tracy is destined to be successful he never gives up. Jonathan was an inspiration he will find a way to emerge victorious. Joshua was enjoying every minute of training he made us proud. David was a great fighter and a one of a kind team motivator, Oh God I miss him. Michael was one of my greatest joys he was learning so much and the enemy tried to destroy it, but the seed is planted he will be a winner. Alex had great potential, Manny had great reflexes. Alexis was definitely part of the team he would have been testing for brown. I enjoyed the time we spent together. To my previous students all of them. You came for a season into my live, you made me love you and shared part of your life with me; I will never forget you, because of you I am a better person today. The reason why I’m where I am is because of my present students. The one’s that set a goal. A winner never quits. Becky has excellent form and a unique fighting style. Delio is a great fighter and he overcame his fear of doing katas. Danny is the ultimate student I expect great things out of him. Gio is the best kata performer. Sebastian is the best point fighter. Mickey is the best assistant Instructor. Joshua is the best I have ever trained for his age. Kenya is discipline in motion she is good. Damian is poetry in motion he is such a pretty fighter. These are the advanced belts that will be testing. The newcomers Rashida most improved. Idrees is an incredible practitioner. Allan is the best street fighter. Jazmin & Jamila the private lesson princesses are better and better each time. Imani is a superb fighter. Earl has previous karate training we expect him to be a leader in the near future. Ebony has lots of potential. The Black belts Mando should be nickname Jet Li he is that good. Desmond is the one that gave us fame and glory he is the school ambassador. Mark is daily evidence of perseverance today he did Urban superempi to perfection. Donovan is wonderful. Tyger is a miracle. Winnie is consistent; Trina is the best female fighter ever. I said all this to say that my students are the reason why I am still teaching at the aikido center. I will never leave you; if I have to teach private lessons to my students for the rest of my life I will gladly do it, which is my commitment to you. For those that do not know I spend lots of time ministering to others, just last week my wife and I prayed on the side walk with my neighbor for his wife who had surgery. I created a prayer group that meets monthly and we are on fire. I counsel young men on the proper way to become old men. My mission is a life of servitude. Thru karate we teach others to be great. Learn as much as you can because one day you might just follow my foot steps. Armando Colbourne, 7th Dan USA Goju/Pan-American
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Wednesday, December 27, 2006

Is Karate for every one?
I have come to the realization that karate is not for every one but every one can benefit from karate. The truth is that I view my knowledge as priceless; the wrong person could not pay me enough to train them. Who is the wrong person? And why some of the wrong people train for so long? The wrong person is not informed, view karate as a sport, as a physical conditioning program, a place to learn a few techniques to show off to others. The wrong person is a part timer, misses’ lots of classes and expects to be promoted together with the other students who have satisfied the contact hour’s requirements. The wrong person develops physically but fails to improve mentally and spiritually, the wrong person will win at controlled tournaments or competitions but will lose in a street fight because of his/her inability to function properly in serenity while your life is on the line. The wrong person is an embarrassment to the dojo. Why some get to train for long periods of time? That is my fault. I have continually forgiven and given second, third and fourth opportunities to the wrong persons, I have made the training easier to accommodate their weaknesses, I have ignored their major acts of stupidity, whining, making excuses etc. Let’s talk about the right person. Karate is not a sport is a martial art is a scientific way of achieving inner peace, physical, mental and spiritual conditioning go together. The right person is humble, kind, understanding, he/she welcomes challenges and train hard in and out of the dojo. This type of person applies karate to everyday life. Uses karate concentration in school, uses focus in sports activities, uses respect when talking to parents, teachers and peers, uses courtesy every change he/she gets. Lives by the code of integrity, perseverance and is always in control. The right person attends karate classes regularly and will notify the sensei of any absences, by phone, e-mail, text message or thru a friend. As many of you may have noticed since the black belt promotion on December 16th in Hinesville, Georgia we have a new improved approach to student development, words cant describe what we experienced on that day, so I am not going to try to describe it, if you are serious about your training you will endure, if you are not we will add you to the list of casualties on this long road of self improvement. I will rather lose a student than to allow them to test for the next belt and the wrong person is publicly exposed. I will tell you this Desmond and Mike engaged in the fight of the year and yes blood was present but no one quit. Jaime drew Mando and even thou Jaime was completely over matched and wanted to quit he did not. These are the right people. Happy Holidays
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Sunday, October 29, 2006

Courage
Looking back at a time not to far ago I remember a competition Where I was expected to win. This event was advertised and talked about for months before the actual date of the competition. I enjoyed all the press and publicity but my students obviously felt some of the pressure. In the Dojo we looked good and every one had fire in their eyes. The day before the tournament my Kids showed signs of fear, they started to question themselves and some even pulled out. The day of the event it rained and when it rains it pours, kata was ok my two sons placed 2nd and I placed 2nd none of my other students even placed 3rd, "That’s ok we will get them in sparring" I said to them, We actually did worse in sparring Kevin placed 4th and Mando was disqualified together with 8 of my students what else could go wrong. My turn to fight my first opponent quickly scored 2 points on me and I had to come from behind to score three points and win the match. Second opponent two points on me with less than a minute to go came from behind and scored 3 points to win the match. At this point I'm fighting for first place against a guy who quickly dispatched the previous two guys that fought him and he was looking mighty confident, the fight started and he quickly scored with a vicious side kick to my ribs and again with a reverse punch to my forehead I was hurt but while the point was been called I saw all my students face looking so pitiful that I yelled courage at the top of my lungs all in a sudden every movement seems to be in slow motion I counter attack each of his movements with a reverse punch and quickly scored 3 points to win the match and bring home the first place trophy to our Dojo. Since that incident 14 years ago Mando and Kevin never lost again, Frank went on to be an Instructor for a big time Dojo with over 300 students, Carlos Owns a very successful Dojo and all the participants from our dojo who witness that dreadful day of pain, agony and ultimately victory, are now over achievers at everything that they do. I often wondered what would have happened if I had lost, will all these students be failures in life or worse criminals looking to duplicate what they saw that day for the rest of their lives. In our competitive nature fueled by our society we put to much emphasis on wining and losing. We go to competitions for the honor of competing with our brothers and sisters in the Martial Arts and learn from that experience. The ultimate goal is to win in life by learning to enjoy each and every day and value what you have not what you think you should have.
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Sunday, October 8, 2006

Behavior
I'm quite sure that we all know that what we consume can affect our behavior. What we do not know is when the change of behavior is happening to us. As educators we are trained to identify behavioral traits that will hinder the learning process and many of us have the ability to adjust the delivery of the subject been taught to compensate for the mood changes. In adjusting the delivery we will increase the percentage of success and we give an impression to our peers as been at the top of our game. On the other hand what do we do when we begin to display symptoms of disruptive out of character mood swings. The human body, mind and spirit created by God is in perfect harmony for the great majority of people. Those of us who have been blessed with normality, the ones that are considered normal, you are the ones I am talking to. You get a headache, you take two tylenols, tylenol works on your brain and sends a signal to your brain that your head does not hurt. Note that we do not know the cause for the headache what we did is dealt with the symptom and we will continue to do this for as long as the pill brings us relief from pain. You decide to go on a diet, Why? maybe you are overweight; You decide to cut out carbohydrates, the body is no longer enjoying a balance nutrition, you loose the weight but no one can stand you, the new personality is not as cool as the old you. By eliminating the starch the mind is deprived of fuel. If you continue with this diet you will eventually die. The T has been added to the word to camouflage the outcome Diet, Die. At least once a month I meet some one who took the diet pills in the past, they have told me horror stories I will not repeat any stories due to the confidentiality agreement, but what I can say is that the original purpose of the pill was to tell your mind you are not hungry and eventually it screwed up every thing else. The key to weight control is eat everything your body asks for but in moderation, work out daily bust a sweat, walk, jog, kick boxing, karate etc. etc. That is one of the pre-requisites for a healty body, mind and spirit Lately we are all caught up in the leadership of the system, the solution is dialogue face to face or by telephone not in a chat room or posting letters on websites. How do we know that some of the people acting so crazy are not on medication, diet or taking some supplement that makes them say or do things they will not normally do. Out of respect for our founder lets do the right thing. Come to a peaceful resolution and glorify USA Goju.
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Wednesday, September 20, 2006

Satisfaction
I'm quite sure that each one of us remembers a saying at some point in our lives that we never forget. Back in 1968 in Brooklyn I met a friend of my dad, intelligent lady who asked me what my father was doing now a days and I replied he was working for the panama canal company as an accountant, her pleasant expression slowly changed to a look of concern, what about his music? reciting what I heard so many times in my household I explained to her that music was a difficult profession and he still do it as a hobbie but he needed the security of a job to provide for his family. The lady looked at me like I was stupid and in a slow voice said your father is a great musician, music is his life, right now he is serving time in the prison of his mind, occupying himself in fullfilling some one's elses dream. She then tighten her face and told me don't you ever put your dream on hold, "when you discover what you like work it with a passion" because only then your days and nights will bring you great satisfaction. I have never seen her again, I forgot this valuable advice and went on with my life. After many years of good and bad times and working for several companies, I know find myself with the feeling that I have wasted my working hours accomplishing insignificant tasks. Every job; I have done well, met the company criteria in all levels but I never had a complete feeling of satisfaction. For the last two years I am totally satisfied every day that I teach Karate, I treated karate as a hobbie for the better part of my life, now I know, martial Arts instruction is my calling in life and tonight I remember what the lady said to me on that winter morning in the corner of Montgomery street and Nostrand av. "when you discover what you like work it with a passion" On that day I did not know what karate was, today I am considered among the best. There is a job to be done every men, women and child should know very early in their lives what brings them great satisfaction, that way they are able to have more good days and less bad days. Your life is a gift from God what you do with your life is your gift to God. Instructors teach every class like is your last, students learn in every class like there is no tomorow, only then the true meaning of the chi will move in your life.
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Sunday, August 27, 2006

Why do we do events
It is odd that just a few days ago I met a young lady that was looking for a Head instructor for her new karate school and was interested in seeking my services for that position. She mentioned that taking your students to tournament was a bad idea due to the fact that people do not like to loose and will become discouraged and quit training. She is not alone in this belief, a close friend has turned down every invitation to any of my tournaments, in house competition, seminars or what ever we do that involves sparring in fear of loosing students. The question is What about the people that love competition should they suffer? of course not. I have learned one thing, that no matter what business you are involved in, sooner or later these experts appear out of no where requesting to be paid to help you grow your business. You now the type talk a good game and have the answers to every thing except delivering results. But they demand to be paid big bucks. I have seen temporary succesful schools but very few long term. Foundation is the key word, there is no solid foundation. What builds strong foundation? experience. How do you become experienced? by doing what you do, you will eventually figure out your niche. If you do not allow your students to experience tournament competition they will eventually fail. Yes, some of the cry babys will quit,but what remains is the foundation to attract others like them, and before you realize why you are so satisfied you will have a school full of winners. Ladies and gentlemen thank you for allowing me to be your Sensei, right now my chest feels bigger and I have the big head. We did it together, I teached and you learned so well. I will not mention no names in this post but we will celebrate in class on Monday for the East Dojo and on Tuesday for the West Dojo. Competition is good is the essence of our American way of live, lets keep our heads up high in victory or defeat.
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Wednesday, August 2, 2006

Outside the Box
Wednesday, August 02, 2006 Outside the Box First of all lets talk about the Encounter. This event is the seventh Moo Sul Kwan training seminar held for the fourth year in a row in sunny Daytona Beach, Florida. This event first began in 1999 when over 50 students from several MSK schools across the nation gathered together to train in the Florida outdoors at the YMCA'S camp Wewa. In addition to hard work, the camaraderie and fellowship that is experienced by the participants is something that only occurs in the martial arts. Ok stop, what am I doing there? The last time I checked I was Goju, I was invited by Master Steven Dunn the regional director to share the same stage with Grandmaster Charles Hildebrand, Denise Pingel, Jason Pingel, Sharon Moore and Gary Holtz from Moo Sul Kwan schools around the country. In addition to myself and my staff we had other guess instructors Tom Turcotte, Esther Allen and Jane Cole. I will like to thank Nidan Desmond Diaz, Sandan Armando Colbourne Jr., Shodans Katrina Colbourne, Winnie Colbourne and Leon Mark Taylor for assisting with the instruction of Goju Ryu Karate and for taking the time to engage in sparring to further demonstrate our style of Karate. I will also like to thank Master Dunn for seeking me out and giving me the opportunity to experience once again life outside the box. We all signed so many autographs, posed for pictures, did short movies and engaged in meaningful conversations. In one of my conversations with Grandmaster Urban he said when I am gone many of the non supporters will use my name for personal gain and fame, you Armando stay to your self and rule in your Dojo and continue to innovate the art. What I do with others is my business only, you stick to your students and do not allow no one to make you a subordinate. You have paid your dues. The key word is innovate the Art within the prescribe guidelines, what we have in USA Goju is so good that every one likes it if presented properly, is all in the projection. Last month we did a demonstration at the United Methodist Church I will like to thank the participants: Leon Mark Taylor, Becky Niblack, Daniel Sanchez, Joshua Niblack, Gio Cancio, Kenya Niblack, Sebastian Cancio, Ivan Sanchez and Carson Franklin. High Five for the parents that came out Mr & Mrs. Sanchez, Kenee Niblack and there respective relative and friends. Since the demonstration my phone is ringing off the hook. Our next event is the in house competition on Saturday Aug 26th at 10:00 AM at the Dojo in palm springs north. This is a fund raiser to rent the van to transport us to Georgia for the National Karate and Kung Fu Olympia Games to be held Sat Oct 21st at 9:00 AM invite all your friends and lets make this event a success. I have just received word that Master Jeff Allen has agreed to perform a Hapkido demonstration at half time, I am still waiting for an answer from the Aikido class, the Sanuces people and the USA Goju practitioners. I will post all the info on the school website. Remember that success will come thru hard work, plan your work, work your plan. Sincerely Armando I Colboune
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