“He” is the 17-year-old Rio Grande High School wrestling team member who was confronted by his much larger teammate, state champion Nick Chavez, in a highly publicized late February incident in the school cafeteria. A sheriff’s deputy assigned to the school says he saw the 18-year-old Chavez take $15 from the younger, smaller kid, knock his lunch tray out of his hand then slap him in the face when he asked for his money back. The deputy filed a report and charged Chavez with larceny and battery. APS suspended him for three days, making him ineligible for the state wrestling tournament and therefore ineligible to defend his 195 pound title. Then someone got South Valley politicians involved. Several made calls to APS about the suspension. When APS refused to overturn it, the family got a lawyer, went to court and convinced a judge to grant an injunction blocking the suspension and letting Chavez wrestle. He’s a damn good wrestler and he won another state championship.

Chavez and his supporters have tried to pass off the incident as just typical “horseplay” between two teenage boys. When all this was first unfolding, we didn’t know for sure what happened. There was no reason to doubt the deputy’s report, but we hadn’t really heard Nick Chavez’ side of the story, so we couldn’t be certain that he is a bully. We still don’t know his side of the story. He spoke little when the case went to court yesterday, saying only that he was sorry that he and the victim haven’t remained friends. The victim did speak in court. (I hate calling him “victim” because when you read what follows, you’ll realize this kid is not afraid to stand up for himself against any bully, teenage or adult.) He was not there in person because he had to take an exam. But his attorney read a statement the boy wrote, the most articulate statement by a 17 year old that I’ve ever seen. We’ve linked it here for you to read. When you do, decide for yourself if it was just “horseplay”. You decide for yourself if Chavez was a bully. You decide for yourself about the behavior of the politicians and other adults who inserted themselves into this sordid mess.

In the end the judge, with the “victim’s” approval, let Chavez off the hook. If he doesn’t get in any more trouble, the charges against him will be dismissed in 90 days. Some people might see that as another victory for “the champ.” But when you read that letter, you’ll realize who the real champion is. It’s the kid who weighs a hundred pounds less than Nick Chavez but who pinned him to the mat with heavyweight words and wisdom.

Way to go kid!

by Dick Knipfing

“In Karate, we must practice, practice, practice and then practice some more…because knowing the movements is not enough, you need to feel them. If you only do Karate at the Dojo, you are wasting your time, it is disrespectful to the art. Of course, this is my opinion, but it is also how I train. I love Karate.” -JH

Contributed by Brian Pena

To parents that have little experience with the world of martial arts, the entire sport can seem violent and dangerous for kids. Upon closer inspection, however, many find that their kids will reap an innumerable amount of benefits from participation in a martial arts training program. In addition to busting sedentary habits and getting kids in shape, martial arts instruction also helps kids learn these ten valuable lessons.

Determination and Dedication – In order to ascend through the ranks and earn new belts, kids that study the martial arts must exhibit dedication and determination. Learning to set and achieve new goals through hard work and dedication is one of the most valuable skills that a child can take away from martial arts training.

To Manage Disappointment in Healthy Ways – No matter how dedicated he is or how hard your child tries, there’s a good chance that he’ll be disappointed by a failure to advance or a mistake that he makes during training. Rather than shielding your child from these feelings, you can use the opportunity as a valuable teaching experience, helping him learn to manage that disappointment in healthy ways.

How to Avoid Physical Confrontation – Action heroes in summer blockbuster films may attack their opponents with style and gusto, but real life just isn’t like the movies. In reality, your child will be taught how to peacefully diffuse a volatile situation and to avoid physical force altogether unless it’s absolutely necessary for defense.

Working With a Partner or As Part of a Team – Some martial arts styles, like jiu jitsu, will require kids to work with a partner to hone their skills and advance. Working together or as part of a team to learn skills and master their technique helps kids learn the value of teamwork, a principle that he can apply to any number of situations as he gets older.

Increased Social Skills – Even if your child doesn’t choose a style that requires much work with a partner or group, the act of spending an hour or so each week with the same people and interacting in a controlled environment often helps shy kids come out of their shells.

To Listen Effectively – It’s impossible to learn proper technique and improve martial arts skills if you can’t listen to the instructor carefully, which is why training in the martial arts can have such a strong impact on kids’ listening skills as a whole.

The Importance of Self-Restraint and Discipline – The basic tenets of all martial arts styles place a strong emphasis on discipline and self-restraint. Willful, stubborn kids that struggle with their impulse control can benefit greatly in the hands of a seasoned instructor.

How to Respect Authority Figures – Regardless of the style, a great martial arts instructor will command absolute respect from his or her young students. This respect for a particular authority figure can easily extend to a respect for authority in general, especially when the focus of classes emphasizes this concept.

The Importance of Confidence – Success is dependent upon confidence and self-assurance in so many areas of life, and it’s imperative for kids to gain such traits. Mastering new techniques in martial arts training will help your child to become more confident and slowly gain faith in her abilities, making her more confident and self-assured in general.

The Benefits of Being Physically Active – The dangers of a sedentary lifestyle and the attendant risks of childhood obesity are well-documented, but all martial arts training will require your child to be physically active and fit. Learning the importance of a healthy, active body can inspire your child to make real changes in her lifestyle, helping to make her more focused on fitness and health in many areas.

These are just a few of the things that your child can learn from participation in a reputable, quality martial arts program. Before enrolling your child, however, it’s wise to remember that not all dojos are created equal. Just as it’s smart to shop around for the best area dance instructor or sports coach, you should also make an effort to locate an instruction facility in your area that has a strong reputation and a focus of kids’ programs.

Red Phoenix Legend

In this book, the author takes readers on a mythical adventure where a young man learns his destiny.

When Jasai was just a young boy, he loved listening to his guardian’s bedtime stories. Valdrayan often told him tales about kung fu and magic—but one particularly story, The Red Phoenix and the Endeavor of Light, has always fascinated the young boy. The Red Phoenix was a deity from the heavens that embodied all that was good, pure, and prosperous. The people of China worshipped her, and yet, there were others who not only worshipped her but devoted their lives to her completely. They were called the Endeavor of Light.

This clan of warrior monks was devoted not only to the glory of the Red Phoenix but to her protection as well.

So loyal they were to the Red Phoenix that they lost their lives when one of the monks betrayed the clan, allowing a vengeful enemy to destroy them all. Jasai grew up listening to these stories, which taught him the virtues of compassion and loyalty, while learning kung fu from Valdrayan.

At his early twenties, he was already a strong fighter who learned to use his powers responsibly. Unknown to Jasai, Valdrayan has honed him to become what he was to prepare him for, his destiny. Stories about the Red Phoenix and the Endeavor of Light were true; in fact, Valdrayan was an honorary warrior for the deity himself. And Jasai, the young man, was the only living descendant of the Endeavor of Light. Time will come that Jasai will have to face the vengeful enemy that killed his parents and destroyed the Temple of Damo, home of the warrior monks.
Can Valdrayan fulfi ll his destiny of preparing him for the worst, and can Jasai become a true warrior monk of the Endeavor of Light?

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Red Phoenix Legend, The Trials of Time

Red Phoenix Legend, The Trials of Time is the latest science fiction story by author Lambert Cheung. Five Years ago, Jasai set out on a quest to restore his people and save the lands of China. Along the way, Jasai came across two other brave warriors; Kang the Free Scholar of the Winds, and Mei Lin the White Rose. Together, the three of them, along with Jasai’s woman Ai Ling, defeated the one known as Insidious Teng Fei, brought back the rule to the true heir of the throne, Emperor Xing; and were able to restore Jasai’s people, the Endeavor of Light to it’s former glory. But now, Jasai finds himself caught in a conflict of two dynasties from ages past. Can Jasai and his people end the age old struggle once and for all? There will come a time when Jasai must choose between true love and saving the people of China. Torn between protecting all he believes in, and all that matters to him,his heart will be tested like never before. Under

the guidance of their great Mistress; the Red Phoenix, Jasai and his comrades go forth on a journey that transcends time to once again fight for all they stand for.

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About the Author

Kickin’ It provides the tools to help improve the overall social and school climate with programs to help keep the anti-bullying message present throughout the year, thus ensuring that all students have a safe and healthy school and social experience.

The multi-component campaign involves a leadership and learning center with preschool and after school programs. It also provides schools across the U.S with anti-bullying school projects, intervention programs, inservice workshops to help schools create a peaceful classroom, faculty and administration support leadership workshops, parent/guardian groups, student mentoring programs and social media monitoring and support.

The Kickin’ It Kids Center is the first of its kind offering a Preschool Core Character Building Cirriculum that is NJEA Endorsed. Posiitve Outlet programs, such as martial arts, are part of the daily curriculum  The Kickin’ It program embraces youth from early childhood and stays with them throughout their educational and social journey.

The Center offers Preschool, After School Programs, Positive Outlet Programs, Camps, Mentoring, School and Community Resources. For more information visit http://www.werekickinit.com/

Were Kickin It PSA: Jason “Mayhem” Miller

Unite in the Fight to Knockout Bullying and Support the opening of The Kickin’ It Kids Anti-Bullying and Leadership Center on Saturday, May 18, 2013 at 3429 Route 9 North Freehold, NJ.

Scheduled to Attend:
Rocky Marciano Jr.
Boxing Champ Merciless Ray Mercer
UFC Legend Dan Severn Bellators’ Phillipe Nover
MMA Journalist Veteran Broadcaster Mike Straka
Actor Jose Hernandez Jr
Actor Josh Flitter
Actor Armani Del Rio
‘Handicapped Heroes’ Wrestlers Greg Iron & Zach Gowen
2010 Miss NJ Teen USA Erica Szymanski
2012 Miss National Sweetheart Courtney Baxter
2012 Ms. NY United States Jeannette Josue
2011 Miss NY Kaitlin Monte
Actress/Entertainment Reporter Chelsea of Chelsea’s Channel
Child Author Alysia Stern
Many more Special Guests to be announced!!!

Event Flyer PDF

“Barry, Ed and I watched the video all I can say is that you and your team are ANGELS!” says Eugenia McGrath.

“Due in no small part to the values my sensei instilled in me. Thanks!” says Barry Steinberg.

This video is an interview with Dr. Barry and shares about The Ride for Smiles fundraiser which helps children grin again by raising money for the Facing  Futures Foundation. For over 15 years, this foundation has focus on the surgical correction of birth defects found in children from remote areas of the world. Because these areas do not have the medical facilities necessary to help them, the Foundation brings each child to Jacksonville, Florida, to allow proper conditions and assemble the best team of doctors needed for the case. Dr. Barry Steinberg is one of the special doctors who performs the surgeries that change peoples lives!

About Facing Futures Foundation

Facing Futures Foundation was founded in 1998 by Barry Steinberg, PhD, DDS, MD, FACS, Director of the Center for Pediatric Craniofacial Disorders in Jacksonville, Florida. Under Steinberg’s leadership, the volunteers with Facing Futures carry out his mission to enhance the health and well being of pediatric patients with facial disorders in Jacksonville and all over the world.

Steinberg works with a team of nurses, anesthesiologists, surgeons, anaplastologists and other professionals to provide free medical care to hundreds of children.

Steinberg… “If I can help them, I will.”

Facing Futures Foundation Mission

To provide medical care to children with facial deformities who would not otherwise be helped by:
- Attending annual medical missions to developing countries
- Training local doctors in those countries
- Bringing children with more severe cases to the US for longer-term attention

The Facing Futures medical team is made up exclusively of volunteers from a variety of specialty areas:

• Craniomaxillofacial Surgeons
• Neurosurgeons
• Plastic Surgeons
• Otolaryngologists
• Speech Pathologists
• Anesthesiologists
• Specialized Nurses

Facing  Futures Foundation Web Site

Visit Facing Futures Foundation on Facebook

The teacher ponders for a moment looks up and down the river and yells back, “My son, you are on the other side”.

Contributed By Sensei Dane Harden

The National Crime Prevention Council reports 52 percent of students say they see bullying at least once a week at school.

Clifford Thomas says the bullying needs to stop—so he’s tackling the issue head-on. He’s leading an anti-bullying summer camp in Bladensburg with the hope that he can create a safer environment for children.

“I’ve seen someone get thrown to the ground like punched and kicked,” said student Anna Hornberger, 10.

Bullying happens all the time. But at the Bullying Prevention and Self-Defense Camp, Thomas teaches children specific ways to defend and protect themselves.

“If somebody holds you, chokes you, you can go under their arm and run as fast as you can,” said Brandon Potts, who is 9-years-old.

“Children are being bullied and bullied– they want a solution, they want an answer,” Thomas said.

Thomas has been instructing D.C. children in tae kwon do and self-defense since 1970—but, he says this is the first anti-bullying camp in the area.

“I’m teaching them different techniques how to talk, how to walk, how to defend themselves,” Thomas said.

The children act out different scenarios—on the bus, outside school, or even online—with a cyberbullying prevention expert.

Thomas also teaches the kids about kidnappers and how every family needs to have a password for safety.

As they head back to school, the students that were part of the program told ABC7 that they feel much more confident thanks to the lessons.

“Now that I’m here, I feel more comfortable about going to school,” Hornberger said.

“Since I know how to protect myself, it will be easier for me,” Potts said.

Book available to Pre-Order May 15^th in the US at WBShop.com

About Dave Friedman

Friedman is a world renowned photographer and motion picture still photographer known for his pictures of celebrities, cinema, racing and classical ballet.

The DVD was created for instructors, future instructors, and school owners.

On the DVD, Master White shares with you the methods that have enabled him to work full time as a karate instructor and school owner for over 40 years.

This DVD will cover topics such as motivational and coaching techniques and the skills necessary to develop long lasting relationships with your students.

The DVD includes an introduction by Jim Haley from Jim Haley Unlimited and special clips from Enter the Dojo and Master Ken, along with Ed Parker Stories by Professor Dennis Conatser.

Master Bob White comes highly recommend. Here are just a few of the prominent people who know and support Mr. White and his endeavors:

 Buy the DVD Online

With over 40 years of success as a competitor, Teacher, Coach and mentor, Master Bob White has produced the same quality in his students with numerous local, State, National and International champions and has arguably become one of the most successful martial arts businessmen in the world.

One of my favorite sayings by Coach John Wooden is, “Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.” No doubt Master White has prepared well and is now willing to share his methods of success for instructors, future instructors, school owners or anyone who is interested in succeeding in life. You will definitely find his personality engaging and contagious. John Sepulveda

I am excited to see that one of the matial arts premier teachers and coaches will be sharing his many years of experience on the The Elements of Effective Coaching. Professor Bob White is sought out not only for his martial arts skills, but for his passion and ability to make “Martial Athletes” part of the ongoing growth of all Arts. It makes perfect sense to absorb this teaching for one’s own use and pass it on to the next generation. Get on board for this opportunity, learn from one who teaches around the world, and has changed the face of the art and gives back to the MartialCommunity for all those who will listen.  Sigung Stephen LaBounty

Master Bob White has influenced and inspired me the past forty years since our paths first crossed at Ed Parker’s International Karate Championships in Long Beach. Bob White is an exceptionally talented teacher and coach whose relationship with his students is remarkable. He has an extraordinary ability to connect with his students and his record of success is a tribute to his exceptional professional skills. Bob White is without a doubt one of the world’s most respected martial art’s educators with intuitive ability to communicate with students. This DVD will be a valuable addition to your martial arts library and indispensable tool for all teachers and coaches.
Eddie Downey, President of European Kenpo Karate Association

Bob White is an amazingly effective and positive teacher and mentor.
Daniel G. Amen MD Author of Change Your Brain, Change Your Life

In 1986 I was drafted in the first round by the Los Angeles Rams; once drafted I found myself in a highly competitive and hostile football environment called the National Football League. 

I possessed the tools to become an outstanding offensive lineman in the NFL, but I needed a key to open the door to my future success. Bob White was that  key. I started taking karate with the LA Rams at Ram Park and was enthralled  with the message that Bob White delivered. I found that karate, a combative sport, had a direct correlation to war in the trenches on the gridiron of the NFL. I decided to take  some personal classes with Mr. White and join his studio. Bob not only taught me the art of Kenpo Karate, he instilled a confidence that carried throughout my entire career and beyond. He was a teacher, mentor, and most of all a friend, and to this day we still laugh and smile about our journey together. Thank you, Bob White!
Mike Schad, Former NFL Player, #1 Draft Pick 1968

The coaching principles presented in this DVD can be used to raise the performance level of coaches in all areas of life including business, sports and personal development.
Jim Haley Unlimited Personal Performance Coach

Order your copy today for only $30.00 + tax and shipping.

 Buy the DVD Online

The Purpose Driven Journey to Success DVD

The Purpose Driven Journey to Success DVD DVD is a training tool that provides a great resource which can be used by people of all levels to improve their skills. Bob and Barbara White, and some of the worlds’ finest martial artists, demonstrate and explain what has helped them rise to a higher level of competancy. This DVD is an investment that has been endorsed by many of the world’s top instructors.