Remember to bring friends and family to see you demonstrate all you have learn over the last three months. It going to be a great time.
Sincerely,
Sensei Shoen
P.S. Black Belt Dinner at P.F. Chang’s restaurant at 5:00 that night to celebrate with all our students and new black belts.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
The Importance of telling The Truth!
Most people know that it is important to tell the truth...and usually try to do it. But there are some people who tell the truth UNLESS:
1. they might get into trouble
2. they are embarrassed about the truth
It's important to be a person who ALWAYS tells the truth...regardless of the consequences!
If you are a person who tells the truth "unless..." people never know when to believe you, so they will often assume you are lying!
If you sometimes avoid the truth, you will lose the trust of the people around you. But the biggest problem you will have is with yourself!
Think about it. If you always tell the truth, you will be very careful of your actions. If you sometimes lie, you will allow yourself to do things that are wrong!
So, Always, Always, Always, tell the truth. In BIG matters, and SMALL ones. It's part of your responsibility as a Martial Artist!
1. they might get into trouble
2. they are embarrassed about the truth
It's important to be a person who ALWAYS tells the truth...regardless of the consequences!
If you are a person who tells the truth "unless..." people never know when to believe you, so they will often assume you are lying!
If you sometimes avoid the truth, you will lose the trust of the people around you. But the biggest problem you will have is with yourself!
Think about it. If you always tell the truth, you will be very careful of your actions. If you sometimes lie, you will allow yourself to do things that are wrong!
So, Always, Always, Always, tell the truth. In BIG matters, and SMALL ones. It's part of your responsibility as a Martial Artist!
Saturday, December 6, 2008
5 Skills For Making New Friends!
1. Introduce yourself to as many people as possible; say, for example, "Hi, my name is Sherman...what's yours?" Say this with a SMILE, and offer your HANDSHAKE!
2. When you have met somebody new, ask questions...find out what type of things your new friend is interested in, and encourage them to talk about THEIR interests!
3. It's OK to make friends with kids who are popular, but also look for new friends among the kids who are eating, walking, or playing alone!
4. Remember that good friendships are often developed slowly; don't rush too much!
5. EVERYBODY, at times, is shy about making new friends...so don't hesitate to take the initiative. Remember that your BEST FRIENDS, were once your NEW FRIENDS!
2. When you have met somebody new, ask questions...find out what type of things your new friend is interested in, and encourage them to talk about THEIR interests!
3. It's OK to make friends with kids who are popular, but also look for new friends among the kids who are eating, walking, or playing alone!
4. Remember that good friendships are often developed slowly; don't rush too much!
5. EVERYBODY, at times, is shy about making new friends...so don't hesitate to take the initiative. Remember that your BEST FRIENDS, were once your NEW FRIENDS!
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Hope Everyone is Enjoying the Long Weekend.
Hopefully we didn't eat so much Turkey that we fell asleepI know a lot of us are enjoying some football this weekend, so I thought I would share this NFL factoid. David Akers is a well-known kicker in NFL (American pro football) and he trains jiu-jitsu a Japanese martial art consisting of joint locks, throws, and submissions. This style is the root of braizialian ground wrestling we do at the academy.
He also does Shaolin kempo a precursor to Shorin-Ryu Karate Do which is the main style we train in at our Academy. I am sure he has to use all his Black Belt Leadership focus to block out the distractions during a game winning field goal. See you all next week for stripe testing, partner drills, sparring, and ground wrestling. It going to be a blast.
I also found these awesome martial arts pictures of a Japanese archery demonstration. This is part of our advanced black belt training. It is very challenging to fi
re these large bows.
He also does Shaolin kempo a precursor to Shorin-Ryu Karate Do which is the main style we train in at our Academy. I am sure he has to use all his Black Belt Leadership focus to block out the distractions during a game winning field goal. See you all next week for stripe testing, partner drills, sparring, and ground wrestling. It going to be a blast.
I also found these awesome martial arts pictures of a Japanese archery demonstration. This is part of our advanced black belt training. It is very challenging to fi
re these large bows.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Thoughts on Thanksgiving...
The Attitude of Gratitude
#1. I always think Thanksgiving is one of the very best holidays...
because there is not so much HYPE!
#2. If you ever find yourself down in the dumps, sit down and
actually WRITE OUT everything you have to be grateful for. When I
do this, I can always come up with 50+ things...and find myself
re-focused on how good I actually have it!
#3. Being grateful is not just a NICE thing...it is a REQUIRED thing!
Remember when you were a kid and your Grandmother would
always send you a card with $10 in it? And you always spent the
money...but never wrote Grandma a thank you note?
And then, you were disappointed when Grandma quit sending
the money? You see, Grandma knew it wasn't in your best interest
to keep sending you a blessing that you weren't grateful for!
So it is with the things God has blessed us with! We keep asking
for MORE blessings...and yet we haven't fully acknowledged what
has ALREADY been given to us!
So...as Thanksgiving Day approaches...have a happy gratitude!
#1. I always think Thanksgiving is one of the very best holidays...
because there is not so much HYPE!
#2. If you ever find yourself down in the dumps, sit down and
actually WRITE OUT everything you have to be grateful for. When I
do this, I can always come up with 50+ things...and find myself
re-focused on how good I actually have it!
#3. Being grateful is not just a NICE thing...it is a REQUIRED thing!
Remember when you were a kid and your Grandmother would
always send you a card with $10 in it? And you always spent the
money...but never wrote Grandma a thank you note?
And then, you were disappointed when Grandma quit sending
the money? You see, Grandma knew it wasn't in your best interest
to keep sending you a blessing that you weren't grateful for!
So it is with the things God has blessed us with! We keep asking
for MORE blessings...and yet we haven't fully acknowledged what
has ALREADY been given to us!
So...as Thanksgiving Day approaches...have a happy gratitude!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Courage!
Many people, when they think of courage, imagine a fearless warrior in battle, charging at the enemy, overcoming tremendous odds, and winning a big victory. This is surely one kind of courage, but we don’t often see it in daily life. Most of us will never be in a war - and if we are, it won’t be quite so dramatic.
Courage means much more than fearlessness in battle. It is a quality of mind and spirit. It suggests a person who faces danger, unpleasantness, or opposition calmly and firmly.
Courage reminds us of George Washington and the cherry tree. When Washington was a boy, his father gave him a hatchet and George foolishly tried it out on a cherry tree in the family yard. When Mr. Washington saw his tree had been cut down, he asked George about it, who replied: “Father, I cannot tell a lie. I did it with my hatchet.”
George Washington showed courage at that moment, for he saw that his father was angry and knew that we has almost sure to be punished. He may have been afraid - he was human, after all - but he calmly faced the consequences of his mistake. The important thing was to tell the truth.
George Washington grew up to be a great general and the first President of the United States. He showed courage in battle and - by strength of leadership and character - kept his army together through a long winter at Valley Forge when the Revolutionary War seemed lost. In great things and small, George Washington was a man of courage.
So when your Martial Art teacher speaks to you of courage, don’t just think of wars and battles. Think of all the times in your daily life when you must stand up for your beliefs and defend yourself from others. You’ll see that you need courage every day!
What are some examples of everyday courage?
Courage means much more than fearlessness in battle. It is a quality of mind and spirit. It suggests a person who faces danger, unpleasantness, or opposition calmly and firmly.
Courage reminds us of George Washington and the cherry tree. When Washington was a boy, his father gave him a hatchet and George foolishly tried it out on a cherry tree in the family yard. When Mr. Washington saw his tree had been cut down, he asked George about it, who replied: “Father, I cannot tell a lie. I did it with my hatchet.”
George Washington showed courage at that moment, for he saw that his father was angry and knew that we has almost sure to be punished. He may have been afraid - he was human, after all - but he calmly faced the consequences of his mistake. The important thing was to tell the truth.
George Washington grew up to be a great general and the first President of the United States. He showed courage in battle and - by strength of leadership and character - kept his army together through a long winter at Valley Forge when the Revolutionary War seemed lost. In great things and small, George Washington was a man of courage.
So when your Martial Art teacher speaks to you of courage, don’t just think of wars and battles. Think of all the times in your daily life when you must stand up for your beliefs and defend yourself from others. You’ll see that you need courage every day!
What are some examples of everyday courage?
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Way to go Adon Semety!
We just got back from a demo at Tiger Tech Day Care in Mantua and our student Adon Semety did a great job help as an assistant instructor. He lead the three keys to respect and broke a board. Way to go Sir. I can tell the other kids really look up to you.
We do demos for teachers, schools, businesses, day care, churches, Boy Scouts, PTA's, and any other groups. If you might be interested in helping our academy at demo or hosting a demo please let Mrs. Barna or myself know. Thanks.
Sincerely,
Scott Shoen
We do demos for teachers, schools, businesses, day care, churches, Boy Scouts, PTA's, and any other groups. If you might be interested in helping our academy at demo or hosting a demo please let Mrs. Barna or myself know. Thanks.
Sincerely,
Scott Shoen
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Voting is a Right and a Responsibility.
I wish all the students and their families the best as we exercise our right to vote today. All the wonderful rights we enjoy in the country also have commensurate responsibilities. While responsibility has become a bad word in today's society of do whatever you like, they are actual a wonderful blessing because without them our rights would disappear. Responsibilitie and rights are like two sides of a coin. So as you enjoy this wonderful right remember the responsibilities that come with this right and make sure to vote.
God Bless Our Country,
Scott Shoen
God Bless Our Country,
Scott Shoen
Monday, November 3, 2008
Two of Our Awesome Students Training on Vacation!
Sam & Miriam Stanley Training on Vacations.
Way to go future Black Belt Leaders. You both look so cool. Miriam you are flying so high it totally looks like an awesome kung fu movie! I am going to have to call my Sensei Brian Ricci who does special effects and stunt coordination for big time movies!
Becoming A Champion!
Who wants to be a Champion? (raise your hand!) What does this mean?
Here are some facts about being a Champion...
being a Champion does NOT mean that you always win! In fact, many Champions became Champions by losing many, many times. They didn't use their losses as opportunities to feel sorry for themselves...they didn't give up! They used each loss as EXPERIENCE...and LEARNED how to do better next time!
Champions NEVER complain about doing the right things. Others might complain, but people committed to becoming Champions take care of business...with a positive attitude!
Champions are gracious...they are quick to help and encourage others. They respect and learn from all others. They NEVER criticize; even thought they are confident, they are also HUMBLE!
Champions have GOALS; they know what they want, and they have a plan to get there!
Champions ALWAYS take great care of their bodies; they eat the right things, get the right amount of sleep, and always exercise...every day!
Each of you is on your way towards being Champion Black Belt Leaders Keep it Up!
Sincerely,
Scott Shoen
Here are some facts about being a Champion...
being a Champion does NOT mean that you always win! In fact, many Champions became Champions by losing many, many times. They didn't use their losses as opportunities to feel sorry for themselves...they didn't give up! They used each loss as EXPERIENCE...and LEARNED how to do better next time!
Champions NEVER complain about doing the right things. Others might complain, but people committed to becoming Champions take care of business...with a positive attitude!
Champions are gracious...they are quick to help and encourage others. They respect and learn from all others. They NEVER criticize; even thought they are confident, they are also HUMBLE!
Champions have GOALS; they know what they want, and they have a plan to get there!
Champions ALWAYS take great care of their bodies; they eat the right things, get the right amount of sleep, and always exercise...every day!
Each of you is on your way towards being Champion Black Belt Leaders Keep it Up!
Sincerely,
Scott Shoen
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
UPCOMING EVENTS
Saturday, November 15th, 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Leadership Seminar –Trampoline Aerial Acrobatic Kicks
Yes! You get to practice your kicks on a trampoline and jumping off of it to kick the bags! Don’t miss this awesome event!
Saturday, November 22nd, 8:00 PM to
Sunday, November 23rd, 9:00 AM
Karate School Sleepover – Pack your sleeping bags and pillows and join us for a night of karate movies and popcorn! We must have at least 10 students sign up and no more than 30, so get on the list right away. Cost $25.00
In celebration of the Thanksgiving holiday the Academy will be closed from Wednesday, November 26th through Sunday, November 30th. Regular classes will resume on Monday, December 1st.
Saturday, December 6th, 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Karate Tournament to include Kata, Sparring and Weapons – All attending students will receive a participation trophy. Be sure to sign up before the November 25th deadline. Cost $25.00
Friday, December 12th, 7:00 to 9:00 PM
ASKA Event – Weapons Seminar with Master Paul Keller!
Space will be limited so sign up early and have the opportunity to train with Master Keller. Other schools are coming too. Cost $25.00
Saturday, December 13th, 12:00 PM to 3:00
Christmas/Holiday Party – All students, friends and family members are invited to this year-end celebration. Come join for lots of fun and feel free to bring goodies to share. Santa will be there too!
Saturday, December 20th, 11:30 AM
GRADUATION – Location to be announced.
This is a Black Belt Graduation so dress attire is required.
There will be a Black Belt Dinner at PF Changs.
PLEASE NOTE: THE ACADEMY WILL BE CLOSED FOR VACATION DECEMBER 21ST THROUGH JANUARY 4TH
Leadership Seminar –Trampoline Aerial Acrobatic Kicks
Yes! You get to practice your kicks on a trampoline and jumping off of it to kick the bags! Don’t miss this awesome event!
Saturday, November 22nd, 8:00 PM to
Sunday, November 23rd, 9:00 AM
Karate School Sleepover – Pack your sleeping bags and pillows and join us for a night of karate movies and popcorn! We must have at least 10 students sign up and no more than 30, so get on the list right away. Cost $25.00
In celebration of the Thanksgiving holiday the Academy will be closed from Wednesday, November 26th through Sunday, November 30th. Regular classes will resume on Monday, December 1st.
Saturday, December 6th, 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Karate Tournament to include Kata, Sparring and Weapons – All attending students will receive a participation trophy. Be sure to sign up before the November 25th deadline. Cost $25.00
Friday, December 12th, 7:00 to 9:00 PM
ASKA Event – Weapons Seminar with Master Paul Keller!
Space will be limited so sign up early and have the opportunity to train with Master Keller. Other schools are coming too. Cost $25.00
Saturday, December 13th, 12:00 PM to 3:00
Christmas/Holiday Party – All students, friends and family members are invited to this year-end celebration. Come join for lots of fun and feel free to bring goodies to share. Santa will be there too!
Saturday, December 20th, 11:30 AM
GRADUATION – Location to be announced.
This is a Black Belt Graduation so dress attire is required.
There will be a Black Belt Dinner at PF Changs.
PLEASE NOTE: THE ACADEMY WILL BE CLOSED FOR VACATION DECEMBER 21ST THROUGH JANUARY 4TH
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
GOAL SETTING!
Did you know that there is POWER in setting goals? When you have set a goal, your efforts are focused in a specific direction...and you are able to accomplish things that you didn't think were possible!
for example...
1. can you imagine a man who has just climbed Mount Everest...when interviewed, he was asked, "How could you possibly make it to the top of the world's highest mountain?" and he replies, "Well, I was just out walking around one day, and the next thing I knew, there I was!"
2. or how about a man who was recently promoted to the top position in a major company; when asked the secret of his success, he responds, "It was the strangest thing! I just kept showing up for work, and they kept promoting me until I became President!"
3. or a young boy or girl who has just earned their 1st Degree Black Belt; if we ask them, "How did you accomplish such a thing at such a young age?" and the new Black Belt replies, "I kind of like Karate; I kept coming, and after a while they made me a Black Belt!"
COULD THESE THINGS HAPPEN? (of course not!)
What is the POWER of GOALSETTING in each of these situations?
Remember the SMART goal setting plan: goals should be
Specific; Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Time-Measurable;
for our younger students...Just ask, “What do you want to be? To do? Then explain that these things are goals!
Did you know that there is POWER in setting goals? When you have set a goal, your efforts are focused in a specific direction...and you are able to accomplish things that you didn't think were possible!
for example...
1. can you imagine a man who has just climbed Mount Everest...when interviewed, he was asked, "How could you possibly make it to the top of the world's highest mountain?" and he replies, "Well, I was just out walking around one day, and the next thing I knew, there I was!"
2. or how about a man who was recently promoted to the top position in a major company; when asked the secret of his success, he responds, "It was the strangest thing! I just kept showing up for work, and they kept promoting me until I became President!"
3. or a young boy or girl who has just earned their 1st Degree Black Belt; if we ask them, "How did you accomplish such a thing at such a young age?" and the new Black Belt replies, "I kind of like Karate; I kept coming, and after a while they made me a Black Belt!"
COULD THESE THINGS HAPPEN? (of course not!)
What is the POWER of GOALSETTING in each of these situations?
Remember the SMART goal setting plan: goals should be
Specific; Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Time-Measurable;
for our younger students...Just ask, “What do you want to be? To do? Then explain that these things are goals!
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Wow what an awesome ASKA camp!
As many of you know Master Keller was in town this weekend. What a privilege and honor it was to be able to host his stay for the 2nd Papa Joe (Master Hayes) Memorial Seminar. This camp was attended by Master Paul Keller (Papa Paul), Master Jules Pommier (Papa Joules), Sensei Bryan Kautzman, Sensei Karl Gruber, and Myself (Sensei Scott Shoen). Footwork, Sparring, Escrima, Weapons (Kobudo), and much more were covered.
During the cam Master Jules Pommier received his Seventh Degree Black Belt or shichidan Dan. This is a life time of effort and accomplishment. We congratulate him, his students, and his academy. Way to go!
If you were not there ask Mr. Kondic, or Father Mwaka about the camp to find out all the karate secrets that they picked up at the camp.
Wish you all a great rest of your Sunday!
During the cam Master Jules Pommier received his Seventh Degree Black Belt or shichidan Dan. This is a life time of effort and accomplishment. We congratulate him, his students, and his academy. Way to go!
If you were not there ask Mr. Kondic, or Father Mwaka about the camp to find out all the karate secrets that they picked up at the camp.
Wish you all a great rest of your Sunday!
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Way to go Students! Awesome Graduation.
This has to be our best graduation ever. You all rocked and looked so sharp. Many of our advanced students got show off their higher kata. Nice work! The confidence and discipline of our students showed was really Black Belt Leadership Excellence.
I am very thankful and impressed by all our students and their supportive and wonderful families. You are all the best. See you in class next week for stripe testing!
Sincerely,
Scott Shoen
I am very thankful and impressed by all our students and their supportive and wonderful families. You are all the best. See you in class next week for stripe testing!
Sincerely,
Scott Shoen
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