A Message Concerning Safety on Kickgen.com From Tracy McCoy, Please Read

Hello KICKgen.com members,

As a registered member of KICKgen.com, there are a few things that I feel I need to share with you with regards to safety.

As you know, we’re a social networking site for martial artists. We’re like other social networks in that we provide all of the social networking tools that are so fun, but we’re VERY unlike most others in that we’re COMMITTED TO SAFETY and family friendliness.

Here is our policy regarding safety:
-We review and approve videos and photos and will delete any media we consider unsafe.
-Any member who uploads any media that contains foul language is banned.
-Any member that takes any action that we consider unsafe is banned.

If you ever need to review them, our Terms of Service are located at http://kickgen.com/kickgen-info/terms-of-service.html.

Essentially we have zero tolerance for anything unsafe and will deal with it swiftly.

Having said that, I regret this may seem harsh to anyone, but the safety of the community is paramount to any other issue.

You may have noticed a new face around KICKgen.com: KGDoug. KGDoug has lot on his plate including communicating with members who are overstepping safety boundaries or otherwise abusing site privileges. He is not making policy but rather kindly reinforcing it.

I want to invite you to continue to enjoy all the benefits of Kickgen.com, with the knowledge that there is a team of us looking out for the online safety of our members while on Kickgen.com.

Best,
Tracy
KICKgen.com

True Modern Warriors: A Tribute To...

In this installment of "True Modern Warriors" I would like to pay special tribute to:

MOMS!

Moms are true warriors...warriors of our modern day. Let's take a peek into their lives (as best a male writer can)...

Wake early. Yawn...wait...no time for yawning, I am MOM! Take the pet out. Wake the kids. Wake the bear...er, um...husband. Coffee on. Breakfast. Wake the kids, and husband, again. Milk, juice, vitamins...all there. Shower (Bath? I wish!) Hair...ooh, hair. Do something with it later, no time now. Get dressed, sort of. Forgot the pet outside, sorry Pookie. Breakfast cold. "Kids!" Books. Backpacks. Field trip permission slip...signed. Lunches made. Sip coffee. Wake the kids and husband...AGAIN. Feed the fish. Lay the clothes out for the kids, ok, the husband too. "Get up honey, you're gonna be late." "Kids!" Oh my, forgot to turn off stove. Hair, gotta get to my hair. Makeup. Do these earrings match. Who cares? Finish getting dressed. Drink coffee. Where are my keys? Hair. Shoes. Jacket. Take coat for freezing office. Kids, where are the kids? I hear water running, finally. Reports for work. Report cards for school. Snacks. Call and schedule teacher's conference. Feed Pookie. Take the curling iron out of the fridge...um...how did THAT get there? Unplug the briefcase. Plug in the toast...er. Bus...BUS! "Kids!" Gulp coffee. Run! Keys? The car doesn't start with my finger. Bet it can though, I AM MOM! Kids on the bus. Husband on the hood of the car...oh, sorry honey, I didn't see you there. "Get in, we're late." (That must have hurt!) Work. Pick kids up from school. Ballet. Martial Arts class (Three of them! When did I sign up for all these?) Homework. Dinner. Baths for everyone. Where's Pookie? Drink more coffee...Yes, at 9pm! My day has only just begun. Walk the fish. Water the other pet. Tuck in the kids...and the husband. Clean the kitchen. Why is there a curling iron in the fridge? Fold the last load of laundry. Take off shoes. Change clothes. Sit down...OUCH! Kid's toys. Think about tomorrow...forget it, too stressful. Relax...hmph. Breathe. Pillow. STOP! Not yet. Set alarms. Turn off lights. Unplug refrigerator. Forgot the pet outside again, sorry Pookie. Watch kids sleep...best part of my day. Kiss hubby on the cheek. How does he get to sleep so fast? Yawn. Now I can yawn. Pillow. Finally. Smile. I am MOM, the Modern Warrior!

Now, if I am even close (and I bet it is 10 times more intense) then you can see Moms truly are Modern Warriors.

Here's to you Mom! Hats off...glasses raised...cheering begins...

Thanks for being everything you are. Happy Mother's Day Weekend!

Everyone else...do something uniquely special for your Mom this weekend, that is definitely expected. But right now, stop what you are doing and go say "Thanks!", "I love you!", or something else that would totally make her day.

From myself and all of us here at Kickgen.com,

Have An Extraordinary Mother's Day Weekend!
Doug McGannon
Kickgen.com username: KGDoug
http://www.questfortheusopen.blogspot.com
http://www.twitter.com/dougmcgannon

Kickgen.com Member Inspiration: Christopher Dennis

Each week I try to find people from all different styles, backgrounds, ranks, and experiences to feature as inspiration coming from right here at Kickgen.com. One of the things I feel we miss sometimes as we grow in the Martial Arts is the "Awe...!" and wonder of when we first began. Imagine with me back to a time when you were a White or Yellow Belt and all the excitement and anticipation that came with it. Fresh, exciting, learning new things, couldn't wait to get to the next class...FUN! This is why I have enjoyed this week's Member Inspiration. Now I ask you to have a little fun as I interview Mr. Christopher Dennis, then go check out his profile and say "Hi!"

Name: Christopher Dennis (username: karateking)
Rank: Yellow Belt, Tae Kwon Do; Blue Belt, Okinawan Karate
Style: Tae Kwon Do
School: Won Martial Arts Academy in Phenix City, AL
Point of Inspiration: Christopher was recently promoted to Yellow Belt in Tae Kwon Do. It is refreshing and important to see someone having so much fun in martial arts at such a young age. Christopher is a perfect example of the next generation of martial arts champions!

KGDoug: Christopher, I understand you were recently promoted. Can you tell me to what rank you were promoted and what did you have to accomplish to reach that level?

Christopher: I was promoted to Yellow Belt. I had to learn down block, high block, outer form block, middle section punch, Chonji (a Korean form of 19 movements meaning "Heaven and Earth"), and six (6) White belt self-defense techniques.

KGDoug: You have studied in two different arts so far. What are they?

Christopher: Okinawan Karate, and now Tae Kwon Do.

KGDoug: Your little brother, Nicolas, also trains with you. What is it like for you to train with your little brother?

Christopher: Weird! (Christopher says that with a wrinkled up face!) It's weird because my teachers will always pair me up with my brother to help him out, and he doesn't always like for me to help him. Sometimes my brother gets in trouble and is a lot of extra drama.

KGDoug: Ha, ha! That is pretty funny! One day I will be able to ask him the same question, so watch out. I bet he looks up to you, though. Are there any other accomplishments you are really proud of in the Martial Arts?

Christopher: The belts that I have been awarded and all the fun I have had in karate classes.

KGDoug: How about in life or school or family?

Christopher: In school...getting all of my good grades on my report cards, learning all the new activities, and making new friends. In my family...having fun and getting to learn new things with my mom and dad.

KGDoug: Boy, it sounds like you have a lot of fun...having fun! I bet having fun is the most fun thing you do, right?! :-) What is the absolute craziest thing you have ever done?

Christopher: The craziest thing I have ever done is jumping and flipping around on the bungee cord bouncer. The bungee cord bouncer is a thing they have in the mall that has all these cords. You take off your shoes, and they strap you in, and you can go really high and jump around in all kinds of ways and do flips. I can do the back flip. I can't do the front flip yet, though, it is the hardest flip to do.

KGDoug: What does Karate mean to you and how far to you want to take it in your life?

Christopher: Having the fun that I have. Karate is amazing. Right now my goal is to get to High Red/Black belt. That is awesome! I also want to be a part of the KICK Team. They are so awesome! The KICK Team is a special team in my school that you have to try out for and you have to know how to do all your kicks, and jumps. You have to be a higher belt to get in. The KICK Team stands for "Kicking In Christ's Kingdom". It's a team for young people that speaks out against drug and alcohol abuse, and emphasizes the importance of education and the resistance of Gang lifestyles. (note: some of the info about the KICK Team we were reading right out of Christopher's school handbook.)

KGDoug: Is there anyone you would like to recognize who has helped you reach the level you have so far in your Martial Arts?

Christopher: Michael, Uncle Doug, Aunt Holly, Mr. Ryan, Mr. Craig, Ms. Danielle, Ms.Denay (the first three are family and Christopher's first teachers in Martial Arts, and the last four are Christopher's current Martial Arts Instructors at Won Martial Arts Academy).

KGDoug: Whew! That's a lot of people. Just goes to show you that we always have to have a good team around us. If you could give one piece of advice to our members at Kickgen.com, what would it be?

Christopher: Have fun with Karate no matter what!

KGDoug: How did I guess!? Thanks, Christopher, and keep up all the hard work. Go for that high Red/Black belt and keep going. Thanks for being an inspiration to all of us here at Kickgen.com and reminding us how fun Karate can be.

And to all you here at Kickgen.com...

Have An Extraordinary Day!
Doug McGannon
Kickgen.com username: KGDoug
http://www.questfortheusopen.blogspot.com
http://www.twitter.com/dougmcgannon

P.S. - I did learn in our conversation that Christopher's school will be represented at the Gator Nationals...Kickgen.com will be there and we look forward to seeing each and every one of you!

"Official Guide To What A Martial Artist Really Means"

I was thinking this week about how important keeping our word and speaking truthfully really is. While I was thinking I came across some Martial Arts humor. Let me share with you a few of my favorite "Official Guide To What A Martial Artist Really Means" translations...

When They Say...
What They Really Mean Is...(in Bold/Orange)

Japanese arts are the best
I practice Japanese Martial Arts

High kicks are not practical
I can't do high kicks

Competitions are a waste of time
I never won any competitions

Bruce Lee didn't know what he was talking about
I don't have a clue what Bruce Lee was talking about

Size and strength are not important
Unless the guy you are fighting is bigger and stronger than you

Chinese arts are the best
I practice Chinese Martial Arts

Sophisticated arts like Tai Chi and Aikido are far superior
I am terrified of sparring

My style is the best
I don't know anything about any other style

Korean arts are the best
I practice Korean Martial Arts

This art is thousands of years old
Some dude just started this about 20 years ago

The purpose of the martial arts is spiritual development, humility, and the discipline of the ego
I am so wise and humble now, it's awesome!

Sometimes (you gotta admit) we just have to laugh out loud at some of the silly things we do and say. What's so funny to me is I've actually had people say similar things to me about the Arts. How about you? As human beings we can find ways to justify anything and everything, can't we?

Whether we are at attention in the dojo (or dojang if Korean arts are the best! lol), or we are going through the course of our day, our words are very powerful. What we say can help us or hurt us. Especially when it comes to "keeping our word".

One of the most important lessons we can learn in developing our character is to learn to keep our word. When everything else is gone...when there is nothing else left...your word will be what you are measured by. Can you be trusted? Do people believe you or do they just write you off, because you haven't kept your word? Are people willing to listen to what you have to say?

It's interesting to me, but do you know one of the best ways to discipline yourself to keep your word...?

Keep your trap closed!

That's right...not trying to be rude here, but simply not having a lot to say all the time will help us to say what really matters when it matters. And when it comes to keeping your word, when you can keep quiet until you have thought through everything there is to think through on a issue, you will only make a promise or guarantee based on the reality of what you can deliver...not just because you wanted to flap your trap and impress someone!

The "translations" above can be funny to those of us willing to laugh a little...but your word is serious business. Over the weekend, think about it...Are you trustworthy? Does your "word" mean anything? What must you do to strengthen your word? If you are trustworthy person, how can you help others learn the "discipline of the tongue" and to keep their word?

In life, this is possibly one of the most important things we can learn to do. It's worth giving significant time and effort to. One way to know how you are doing in this area is to ask a mentor, your Martial Arts instructor, a parent, or a trustworthy friend (and I mean, they better be truly honest and trustworthy) what they think about your "word". Ask them if you can be trusted...if you have influence with people through your words...

Then, make adjustments. Do whatever it takes to kick this part of your life and character up a notch or two! Whether you are strong or weak in this area...there is always room for improvement.

And remember, when you say, "I give you my word..." What you really mean to say better be "I give you my word, and my word is good!"

Have An Extraordinary Weekend!
Doug McGannon
Kickgen.com username: KGDoug
http://www.questfortheusopen.blogspot.com
http://www.twitter.com/dougmcgannon

P.S. - The little contest I was running from earlier in the week is over now. I will announce the winner at the beginning of next week. There were some really good ideas and it was helpful to me to know what is of interest to you. Thanks for your feedback and I will chat with you on Monday!

Prize Inside!

Do you remember Cracker Jacks and the little prize that you could always find under all the sticky, caramelized, faux-popcorn, candy-type food product? Oh man, I liked Cracker Jacks...but the prize...oh the prize inside! I was known to dump entire boxes of the "Jacks" just to get to the prize.

Cereal boxes too! The cavity-inducing kid's cereals were always popular because of what they said you could get inside the box, under all the sugary-sweet marshmallows, shapes, and things that were supposed to look like animals. And those kiddie meals you get at the fast-food joints...yep, prizes, games, toys, action figures, movie tie-ins, cd's, oh my! One of these days I am going to get a kiddie meal and it will contain an Xbox or something...yeah, right!

As a kid, my toy box was filled with these little toys and prizes. I thought they no longer did that kind of stuff, then I looked inside my nephews toy boxes one day and...you guessed it...prizes were definitely inside!

Those were the simple days. Now, it's game console boxes...if you can't get the "prize" game inside the game system box - FORGET IT!

People have learned to value "what's on the inside." As martial artists, we should be very aware of this.

"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." -Unknown

In the martial arts (and in every other part of life), it truly is what is on the inside that counts. We all have things in our past we are not the most proud of. We all dream of a future better than our past. But unless you are living RIGHT NOW and realize that cultivating "the inside" in this moment is what's most important, you may have trouble overcoming any problems of the past, and you certainly won't be present when the future arrives.

I would like to encourage you today to dig deep. Look inside yourself...in your heart and mind...and see what you find. Is your character what it should be? Are you living according to a strong set of values? Are there areas inside that need "shaping up"?

Take some time and work on the "inner person". That inner self is the most powerful thing you've got going for you. Just as it can build you up and encourage you, it can also bring you down and discourage you if you aren't careful. It takes a daily check to keep this inner person heading in the right direction.

So, whether you are on the mat, in between classes, at work, or at play...make sure you are continually aware of what's going on inside your heart and mind.

Do this, and you will find the real "Prize Inside!"

Have An Extraordinary Day!
Doug McGannon
Kickgen.com username: KGDoug
http://www.questfortheusopen.blogspot.com
http://www.twitter.com/dougmcgannon

OK, Folks...Here's Your Chance!

I would like your opinion. It matters a whole bunch to me...

Simply, I would like to know what you are getting the most out of through my writings here at Kickgen.com. Each day I post an inspirational blog or news post for you to enjoy, and it would be nice to hear from you about which ones you like the best...and what you might like to read about in the future.

Here's how it works...

I am going to list the main themes I am writing about and they will be numbered. If you enjoy #1 on the list, drop a comment or shoot me an email or something and just type #1. If you like #1 and say, #3, then send those to me. Simple. Of course, I would enjoy further feedback if you have it, but simple is fine if it's all you have time for right now.

BUT...do send me at least one idea of something you would like to read about, learn about, or ponder in reference to the Martial Arts. I am formulating some new ideas for the future, but don't want to waste any time if you have an amazing idea that the whole community would benefit from.

OK, Folks...Here's Your Chance! The list...

#1 - Inspirational Martial Arts oriented Blogs (pretty much what is going out most of the time).

#2 - Friday Reflection (Friday's inspiration kinda kicks it up a notch and gives you something to think about over the weekend or even work on in your life or art).

#3 - Kickgen.com Member Inspiration (the posts where you get to learn about individuals who help make up this online community).

#4 - The Language of The Arts (this is New and focuses on the words and phrases we use from various languages in our daily and weekly training...going deeper "behind the scenes" of the language we use).

#5 - News bits about what is happening at Kickgen.com and other places related to Martial Arts.

Now, go ahead...send in your numbers (kinda feel like we are voting on American Idol or something :)

In addition, send your ideas...

Hmmm...I'm going to go out on a limb here...

I think for the most creative AND beneficial idea that comes in...A PRIZE! I am going to talk with the Kickgen.com bosses and see what kind of prize we can come up with. (Chances are they laugh at me hysterically and tell me to come up with my own prize!) No worries if they do, I will come up with something...it may not be HUGE, but you will enjoy. So, send in your ideas!

I look forward to hearing from you...

Have An Extraordinary Day!
Doug McGannon
Kickgen.com username: KGDoug
http://www.questfortheusopen.blogspot.com
http://www.twitter.com/dougmcgannon

P.S. - Have you linked up your twitter stuff in your Kickgen.com profile? Get on that, it is soooo much fun!

P.P.S. - Contest ends this Friday.

The Language of the Arts: "Osu!"

As we all know, the Martial Arts have a language all to their own. Whether Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Filipino, Brazilian, or otherwise...sometimes the things we say hold a lot of meaning. I have learned that students of the arts don't always know the meaning behind the words or phrases they use. Of course, there can be a thousand interpretations of a single meaning, but for the most part, we can glean a good deal of inspiration, motivation, knowledge, and instruction from the simple translation of some of our words and phrases.

Our word or phrase today is "Osu".

The literal translation of the word "Osu" can be built from an understanding of the two Chinese symbols "Osae" and "Shinobu", from which "Osu" is derived and is used in traditional Japanese Martial Arts. "Osae" (o) means "to press" or "to push" and symbolizes giving 100% effort in everything we do. "Shinobu" (su) means "steady", "steady spirit", or "to endure". The two symbols combined create the word "Osu" which then can be translated "to push forward or persevere while giving 100% effort, even in the most difficult circumstances". In a sense, when someone uses it in a training hall or while practicing the arts, it can mean that the person is willing to give everything they have, and be completely present, whether they feel like it or not...sort of a pledge to endure to the utmost limits.

Often it is used as a replacement for "hello" or "goodbye" or "I understand" as well. Regardless, it is a word with great meaning behind it, showing great respect and full commitment by the user.

Just for kicks (pun definitely intended!)...another definition of "Osu" is "patience with myself and with others" denoting that advancement in the arts, or in life period, has to do with much more than just physical strength or the prowess of skill. It requires an inner maturity and development that can only be obtained through the strictest of discipline.

Perhaps you have a similar word in another language that is used in your training. Whatever it is though, realize it holds a lot of weight and shouldn't be used lightly, as with any training language.

So to you I say, "Osu!" and with this I say "Push forward with a steady spirit, and have patience both with yourself and those around you, and give everything you have when training or in life...leave nothing to question...and endure even the most trying of circumstances with a positive and resourceful attitude, and you will be the better, the stronger, and the wiser person for it!"

Wow! A lot CAN be said in a very little word.

Have An Extraordinary Day!
Doug McGannon
Kickgen.com username: KGDoug
http://www.questfortheusopen.blogspot.com
http://www.twitter.com/dougmcgannon

Slammed Through The Door...

So...I was sitting down to write this great, inspirational post for Kickgen.com on this wonderful Friday evening and then all of the sudden...

With a loud yell that would rival any tournament champion, my son slammed through the door...


"WHAT IN THE WORLD!?" I thought. Then I saw it in his eyes...

He slammed through my door, and yelled, then ran over to me, looked up at me and said..."Peeez!"

In case you aren't privy to the exhaustive vocabulary of infants, "Peeez" means "Please..." and it could be a request for anything under the sun. Anything beyond the "Please..." you are to figure out on your own.

Tonight, I knew exactly what he was asking for. He was asking for...Me.

He wanted his Daddy.

At that moment, I knew this post needed to be quick, and then it hit me...

You probably have someone you need to spend time with as well. A son, a daughter, father, mother, grandkid, little brother, older sister...this is the part you have to figure out. Who needs you this weekend?

I know, I know. You are a super busy, in demand martial artist, or housewife, or Dad the "fix it man", or video game aficionado, or some other Super Hero that is destined to save the world in the next 48 hours.

WRONG!

I've got news for you...you probably aren't going to save the world in the next couple of days. And if you could, why didn't you do it last week? Where you are really needed right now, this weekend, is in someone's life that would absolutely love to have your undivided attention for just a while.

So, go figure out who you need to spend some quality time with, and surprise them with...YOU!

I've already figured out who I need to spend time with. He's sitting right here saying "Peeez!"

So, I'll see you later. After all, if we can't give ourselves to those who really love us and need us, we don't have any business giving ourselves to anyone or anything else.

O.k., so...

Why are you still reading this...?

Have An Extraordinary Weekend!
Doug McGannon
Kickgen.com username: KGDoug
http://www.twitter.com/dougmcgannon

P.S. - Monday's post will be about "OSU!" Anyone know what that means?

Kickgen.com Member Inspiration: Dr. Eric Gardere

Each week I take a trip around the Kickgen.com landscape and look for inspirational happenings in our community. I am consistently "WOW-ed" with the amazing people here at Kickgen.com and all that you are accomplishing in your Martial Arts and Life! Each week I am trying to bring you a little piece of that "WOW" factor through individual members just like our guest today: Dr. Eric Gardere.

Name: Dr. Eric Gardere (username: Mastereric74)
Rank: Master Level (38 years Kung fu; 10 years Kenpo Karate)
Style: Twin Tigers Kung Fu (Founder, Creator)
School: Twin Tigers Kung Fu
Point of Inspiration: Dr. Eric Gardere has been involved in the Martial Arts for over 47 years. He is a 9-time World Champion, and a 16-time National Champion. He was recently inducted into the Bushido Martial Arts Hall Of Fame, and into the World Chinese Martial Arts Federation Hall Of Fame. Dr. Gardere also received the Life Time Achievment Award for the Martial Arts and was added to the International Kung Fu (IKF) list of International Masters. He is the founder & creater of the Twin Tigers Kung Fu System.

Note: My full interview with Dr. Gardere is much longer than what space allows for here. Dr. Gardere has much to say concerning life and the Martial Arts, and I would encourage you to hear what he has to say and join in conversation with him. I personally enjoyed all he shared with me (about movies, in-depth training with Master Bruce Lee and other Masters of his arts, and many of his tournament accomplishments over the years) and I am sure you will enjoy getting to know him better as a Kickgen.com member. He uses his Personal Blog, and other features of Kickgen.com to communicate at Mastereric74. Be sure to drop by and pay him a visit.

KGDoug: Dr. Gardere, would you mind sharing with us some of the highlights of your background and accomplishments as a Martial Artist over the past 47 years?

Dr. Gardere: Working out with Master Bruce Lee when I was a kid was probably one of the most exciting times that I can remember. However working with my daughter to perfect the Twin Tigers System was very enjoyable, as it gave me a chance to work with my daughter on a project that took years for us to perfect. Whenever I came up with a new form, grab art, or rotation, I would use her as the “dummy” to practice on. We had some good times and bad trying to get things right, but through it all, it made us closer.

I also remember when I worked on the martial arts film SiFu, I had twelve of my students in the film along with my oldest son and my daughter. The film was shot in San Francisco, and the star of the film was Master Zong Lao. It was something that I had never experienced before seeing how this was my first film to work on. Master Lao let me choreograph the fight scenes that my students would be doing in the movie along with a few of the other fighters. This was a long and hard process. We would show up on the set at 6:00pm, get our make up on and shoot until 4:00, sometimes 5:00, in the morning, and then have to be back that evening to start all over again. This was a little harder on my students and me because we live 2 hours away from San Francisco. We would have to leave here around 4:00pm to be there by 6:00pm, and then we would not get home until 7:00 or 8:00am the next morning.

Was it worth it? YES, by all means. Doing this film gave me an opportunity to work with both of my kids on the film, something that we will always have. In the movie I was a good guy and my son was a bad guy and we had to fight each other in the film. Pretty cool huh???

After doing the film I have to say that I was sore for about two weeks. Let it be said that I have a great respect for actors because I could not do this on a daily basis. Doing the film opened the door for me to start my body guard service for rap artists, country singers, sports celebs, etc.

KGDoug: WOW! That is impressive and exciting, and I’m sure that’s only a small piece of a bigger picture. What, in your opinion, is a way we can honor the traditions of the past in the midst of all that is modern and "new" in Martial Arts today?

Dr. Gardere: I think that we need to remember where the martial arts began, and how they began. In the past Masters did not teach there students for profit, they taught for the love of the martial arts, to pass on the knowledge that they had to others, and to help one person change their life. This is what we need to remember now.

KGDoug: When you are teaching students, what is the number one thing you would say to them that is the difference between being an average Martial Artist and excelling in their art and life?

Dr. Gardere: I do not try to sugar-coat anything with my students. When they come into my studio I tell them straight out, “The martial arts are not just something that you do. It is not a way to get in shape, there is a health spa down the street for that. I am not here to be your baby-sitter, if you are here for any of these reasons then you can leave out the door now. This is a life-time commitment, and if you are not ready to make that commitment then you should not be here. If you are not willing to put in the time or the effort to be the best you can possibly be – there is the door. I can teach you in here, but if you are not ready to go home once you leave from here and practice, don't waste my time. I will teach you as fast as you can learn, I will push you as far as I think you can go, and in the end you will be the best you can be, not only in here but out there on the streets. This does not mean just in the physical part of the martial arts, but I will prepare you for your Life Journey as a martial artist mentally and spiritually.”

KGDoug: That leaves little room for interpretation! You have high expectations, and that is refreshing to hear today. I am sure your students appreciate it the more they train with you. Can you tell us a little about Twin Tigers King Fu and how a Kickgen.com member might learn more about your system?

Dr. Gardere: The Twin Tigers System consists of 6 styles of Kung Fu: White Crane, Tai Mantis, Wing Chun, Dragon, Tiger & Snake. My system teaches one how to react off of reaction, not to think about what you are going to do, but to relax and react. My system uses all 6 forms in everything we do, so when you learn it is not like you are learning all Wing Chun, or White Crane, or any of the other forms, but all of them combined together.

KGDoug: As a note to our readers…Dr. Gardere has invited you to contact him to learn more about Twin Tigers Kung Fu and his philosophy of the martial arts. I would very much encourage you, if you are interested, to contact him through his profile page here on Kickgen.com. Kickgen.com username: Mastereric74

How much practice do you still put in each day or week in the Martial Arts?

Dr. Gardere: As of now I put in at least 4 hrs a day of physical practice here in my home. I have two total gyms, a stretching machine, a stem unit (to contract the muscles), three Wave-Masters for kicking & punching, a wooden dummy, and my floor is fully matted. This is where I also train my kids and where they work out. I am retired from competing in tournaments due to 29 surgeries on my right knee, however I still do get on the mat with my students and I get excited when ever they get up the nerve to fight me. I have to say in all honesty, I may be 54 years old right now but I still have great speed and power. My career is not even close to being over, I still have so much more to pass on to my students.

KGDoug: And I am sure they are looking to gain much more insight from you. Is there anyone you would like to recognize who has helped you to become who you are as a Martial Artist today...instructor(s), mentors, family?

Dr. Gardere: The people that I would like to thank for the success of my career and who supported me for all of these years would be first, My Lord and Master Jesus Christ. My wife, Tina. She has put up with a whole lot from me. More then she should ever of had to. I would like to thank my daughter, Tiffany (who is now the Women’s Light-weight World Champion in sparring) for helping me to create a great part of the Twin Tigers system. My two sons, Tim & SeJen for giving up sports to compete with me, and to my oldest son Eric Jr. for never giving up when I pushed him so hard (he is now one of the top martial artists around). And I would like to acknowledge Master Bruce Lee for his inspiration in my life. Also, Grand Master Byong Yu, Master Harry Mok, Grand Master Lily Lou, Master Zong Lao, and Master Hei Long for their never-ending friendship. And a very special thanks to my MOM, who raised us on her own and taught me to be strong, never give up, and to be at peace with myself always. I thank you for giving me this opportunity, sir, to be able to share some things with others that truly mean a lot to me.

KGDoug: Thank you, Dr. Gardere. It has been my pleasure.

And to all of you wonderful Kickgen.com friends out there...

Have An Extraordinary Day!
Doug McGannon
Kickgen.com username: KGDoug
http://www.twitter.com/dougmcgannon

P.S. - Your comments and feedback are thoroughly enjoyed! :)

Don't Judge A Book By Its...

Here's something that many people don't realize...

Well, hang on, first of all let me say that what I am going to share with you today is another key to really excelling in Life...really living life as a Champion. Whether it is in Martial Arts, Family, or in other passions and pursuits you are driving toward, each of us has something on the inside that wants to break out and really FLY...to succeed, to accomplish, to live life to the fullest in every way.

Here's a key...

Ready...?

YOU ARE NOT SIMPLY WHAT YOU SEE ON THE OUTSIDE.

That's right, there is much more to you than meets the eye. (Sounds simple, doesn't it? Then why do so many people miss this?) This is why you can't "judge a book by its cover" so to speak. The "cover" gives us SOME insight, but it doesn't tell the whole picture.

Beyond the physical, we have our "mental" layer, and our "spiritual" layer. Ever hear the term, "Mind, Body, and Spirit"? There's something to that. There are even separate layers to each of these main layers. For example: the body is not just the outside you see, but also internal organs, blood, lymph system, nervous system, bones, etc. Likewise, the mind is not simply "one-sided" either, there are both conscious and sub-concious minds in the mix. We could talk all day about the different layers of each part of us, but I want to give you something a little more practical to walk away with today.

How do you take care of each of these "parts"? This is where the BIG key comes in when learning how to "go the distance" in anything in life.

Each day you must take care to nurture and cultivate each "part" of you. Here are a few ways (there are so many!) to help you...

Part of You: Mind
Strategy to nurture: Read. Pick up a book and start reading. At first read deeply and widely, then learn to narrow your reading each month to things that are really significant to helping you grow. I read on four main topics each month, and I keep an ongoing reading list of books I want to pick up in the future. I have developed a system of reading. I need that. I won't be faithful to expanding my mind through reading if I don't have a plan.
Bonus Strategy: Imagine! That's right...take some time to imagine...dream BIG...think about all the things you would like to accomplish and imagine yourself doing those things. You will be amazed at how this nurtures the mind!

Part of You: Body
Strategy to nurture: Exercise. Well, duh! That one is easy...I think. Mix up your exercise routine and make it fun. Do more exercise outside in the sun...or the rain (trust me it's a blast...just don't do it when lightning is striking!)
Bonus Strategy: Take a refreshing salt bath or get a full 8 hours of sleep (your eyes will thank me!)

Part of You: Spirit
Strategy to nurture: Pray. Studies show that when people pray, they are significantly more relaxed and are usually healthier than those that don't.
Bonus Strategy: Forgive someone. We all have people in our lives we have grudges against, or harbor some hurt from...write them a letter (you don't even have to send it) and forgive that person. You could talk with them if you feel you can. Regardless, let go of the hurt, forgive and move on!

Like I said earlier, each day you MUST take care of "ALL" of you. Do a little bit each day. Take care of the "parts", and you will understand what it feels like to be "whole".

Have An Extraordinary Day!
Doug McGannon
Kickgen.com username: KGDoug
http://www.twitter.com/dougmcgannon

KICKgen.com Featured Athlete: Kyle Montagna and Upcoming Live Streaming Events

Kyle Montagna is sixteen years old from Sunrise, Florida. He’s been training in Tae Kwon Do under Mr. Tony Braun at Evolution Martial Arts for nearly ten years. Since he began his Martial Arts training Kyle has attained the rank of 1st Degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do, 1st degree Black Belt in Hapkido and is a certified Black Belt under the Kukkiwon. Kyle is a well-rounded martial artist with talents in jiu-jitsu and recently extreme martial arts but his forte has definitely propelled him in the field of Sport Karate competition.
Read more..........

ALSO...

KICKgen LIVE streaming events coming up:

• May 16th Gator Nationals, night time show
• May 30th New England Open, night time show
• July 3rd & 4th The US Open, Friday night Tricking Competition and Saturday Night of Champions.

KICKgen.com will be on site filming and streaming live in conjunction with Black and Blue Video and Blitzkick.com. Stay tuned to Kickgen.com for more info about these exciting and power-packed events!



Black and Blue video is an excellent place to purchase competition dvds and Blitzkick.com is an excellent place to view competition video. To watch these events, go to the KICKgen homepage and click play. While the show is running live, you can use the chat tool to talk with other members who are watching online with you.

KICKgen.com is family friendly, kid-safe Social Networking site programmed for martial artists ages 6 to 30.

To learn more about how KICKgen provides solutions for martial arts schools go to:

KICKgen Martial Arts Schools

Baby oh Baby

Congratulations to Chip and Glyn Ann Townsend on the birth of their baby boy!

Slade Donovan Townsend (future KICKgen member) was born on December 28, 2008 and weighed in at 7lbs. 7oz. Glyn Ann is doing great and is recovering well from the birth of little Slade.


Both parents have declined commenting on whether little Slade is also destined to become a world class breaker like themselves. We will need to watch and see.


Chip Townsend with new baby, Slade.

September News

Welcome to the NEW version of the KICKgen newsletter!

We at KICKgen are continuing to look for new ways to interact with you and keep you current on news related to KICKgen.com, its users and the martial arts world. So, make sure to save this page to your internet explorer FAVORITES, so you can easily check to see if anything new has come up. Be sure to subscribe via RSS feed, by clicking on the RSS links on the table on the right above our video clip widget, this way you'll receive KICKgen news feeds once they are posted. We're always looking to hear from you, so take the time to leave a comment or drop any links to any interesting martial arts news articles/videos/photos that you'd like to share with everyone!

KICKgen is going LIVE!!!

That's right!!! We're going to be broadcasting live video from the Twin Towers Classic in New York City as it happens during the nighttime show that starts at 7:30pm on Saturday, Sept. 6th. You'll be able to enjoy the highlights of the competition from your computer screen. So check us out by following clicking on the picture on the right -->

FEATURED SCHOOL

You don't have to look far to find a school that really understand what it takes to be successful in the martial arts business. KICKgen's featured school this month is Gulf Coast Karate, located in Cape Coral, Florida. This school's curriculum is based on the legasy of SGM Ed Parker's American Kenpo. Check out Gulf Coast Karate!

Twin Towers Classic 3A
New York, NY
9/5 - 9/6

Bonus Class - All Ranks
Ridgeland, SC
9/5

Yard Sale to Benefit St. Jude Children's Hospital
&
Free Trial Class & Fall Registration
Ridgeland, SC
9/6

Dunamis Karate Belt Testing
Ridgeland, SC
9/8 - 9/9

Dunamis Belt Graduation & St. Jude Kick-A-Thon
Ridgeland, SC
9/12

Peterborough Championship Series 2008
Community Park, Millfiled, Peterborough, England
9/14

Rhode Island Classic
Warwick, RI
9/14

KICK/USA FL. State Championship, All Regions
Naples, FL
9/19 - 9/20

3rd Annual Midwest Rumble
Springfield, MO
9/20

ATAT Regional Championships
Newark, DE
9/20

State of the Arts Championships
W. Warwick, RI
9/28

Pan American Internationals 4A
Miami, FL
9/28

FEATURED MEMBER

This month's featured member is Elisa Feliciano, who is a green belt in traditional Shotokan Karate and also recently celebrated her 44th birthday. HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY! Ms. Feliciano has had a busy summer, taking part in numerous competitions. In June, she competed at the NAFMA Nationals Karate Tournament in Atlantic City, NJ and won first place in the following Women's 40 yrs & older division events: weapons, Nunchaku sparring, padded sword fighting, forms & point sparring and placed second in stick sparring. She also took part in The Rek Suit Regionals that was held in Rahway, NJ competing in two separate tournaments in the same day at the same location. She first competed and won first place in all of the events that she participated in which included weapons, forms, and fighting. She then went on to compete in full contact women's kickboxing, with the match ending in a draw. Ms. Feliciano continued her busy competition schedule by competing at the World Karate Federation Hall of Fame (WKUHOF) Karate Tournament in Tannersville, PA, as well as at the Juan Kan Karate & Kickboxing Karate Tournament in West Paterson, NJ. Congratulations on your achievements and we hope to hear more from you in the future!

Thank you to D'Anne Kile for providing KICKgen with Ms. Feliciano's competition results and information!

Andrew Adams who is a 7yr old blue belt who competed at the Goldbar Open Challenge in Atlanta and placing 1^st in Extreme Weapons, 2^nd in Extreme Forms, 2^nd in sparring and 2^nd in Traditional forms.

Skylar Pagliuca of Pil-Sung Martial Arts in Colonie, NY, for not only excelling in martial arts, but in academics as well. She was recently chosen by her teacher to go to Washington DC for a special youth leadership conference.

Is your school a KICKgen School?!

(click on picture below to enlarge and find out more!)

The OPEN FORMS video competition is extended until August 31st. Judging will run from 9/1-9/15. So if you think you've got a rockin form, PROVE IT! Log into KICKgen's Competition page and upload a video of your form.