Monthly Newsletter - August

Monthly Newsletter – August Dear Friends,

From seminars, to competitions, demo’s and parties, you won’t want to miss out on the action!

School Closings Shifu’s China Trip! European Wushu Kungfu Champion Benoit Denolle Returns to CMAA Seminars and Group Privates Training Sessions with Benoit Denolle 3rd Annual Kungfu Wushu Competition Recap Student of the Month – Liv “Livvy” Nevo

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu School Closings Regular Kungfu Classes are cancelled for Saturday, August 8^th.  Please join us for an amazing seminar!

All Kungfu Classes will be cancelled August 17^th -August 22^nd.

Tai Chi classes with Master Jiang Jian Ye will be held as regularly scheduled.

Shifu Lucas Geller China Trip Shifu Geller will be traveling to China with his parents for two weeks during the month of August to get married to his fiancé Zou Yu (Zoey) in her hometown of Yidu, Hubei.  Tune in to next month’s newsletter for the recap and photos!  In addition, no trip to China would be complete without training.  Even with a busy schedule, Zoey has made arrangements for Kungfu training.  Look forward to sharing that experience with everyone as well!

Amazing Wushu Kungfu Routine

European Wushu Kungfu Champion Benoit Denolle Returns to CMAA CMAA will be hosting European Wushu Kungfu Champion and good friend, Benoit Denolle for 3 weeks of training, coaching, seminars and FUN! Don’t miss the chance to train with him!

Longfist Changquan Seminars with International Kungfu Champion Benoit Denolle What: Individual Longfist Basics and Combinations (Beginner/Intermediate and Intermediate/Advanced). When: Saturday, Aug 8th. Beginner/Intermediate 11:15-12:30, Intermediate/Advanced 12:30-2pm. Why: Take advantage to train with an amazing Martial Artist and International Champion right at our very own school! Whatever your level, focusing on developing better basics is always the way to make great improvements.  Learning individual combinations and movements will become increasingly important as we advance in our training and look to earn our black sash which will require you to choreograph your very own individual Longfist and weapons routines! These are the exact movements you will look to include.

Cost: $20 for Beginner/Intermediate, $30 for Intermediate/Advanced with pre-registration by Aug 3rd. $25/$35 respectively for registration after the 3rd.

*Note: The classes will be limited to the first 15 students who register for each of the seminars. If you’re not sure which seminar you should take (or if you’re interested in both- just ask me and I will clarify what the major differences will be.)

Nanquan (Tiger Crane Southern Style) Kungfu Seminar

When: Saturday, Aug. 8^th 3:00-4:30. What: Learn and improve your Southern Style Kungfu basics, and pick up new Nanquan combinations for your future black sash Kungfu routine! Cost: $25 with pre-registration by Aug 3^rd ($35 when registered after the 3^rd).

There are two major styles in Wushu: Changquan (Long Fist) and Nanquan (Southern Fist).  At CMAA we emphasize Long Fist as our foundation.  However, once you have earned your Orange sash you will have the option to begin learning Nanquan!  What is the difference? Great question! Long Fist emphasizes kicks, high jumps and graceful postures.  Southern, inspired by Tiger and Crane movements, is aggressive and powerful, and emphasizes low stances and fast hand strikes.  That said, there is no better way to decide which style suits your body type and personality, or just diversify your knowledge of kungfu than by taking advantage of this unique opportunity to get hands on training in this system!

Kungfu Champion Group Privates - with International Champion Benoit Denolle Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to get a small group private training session with Wushu Champion Benoit Denolle.  Bring your Kungfu to a whole new level with individual correction. Refine your current routines or learn new basics, combinations, forms or styles of Wushu!

Super Low Group Privates Rates: Get lots of personal attention and focus on exactly what you want! 1 HR Session: $25 or 2 Hour Session: $35 (Minimum 2 person Sign Up)

Saturday, Aug. 1^st 3-4PM Sunday, Aug. 2^nd 10am-12pm and 1:30pm-3:30pm Sunday, Aug. 9^th  10am-12pm and 1:30pm-3:30pm 3^rd Annual Kungfu Wushu Competition: Recap With many members of our usual competition team taking it easy after New Jersey or busy with summer travel plans, CMAA sent a smaller competition team out to represent the school this time.  Of the 6 total members, only 2 had prior competition experience.

The value of competing is in the hard work and determination leading up to the competition, and the courage it takes to go out there all alone and perform.  However, the medal can feel pretty darn good too!

Team CMAA. 6 athletes competed in 11 events and took 4 Bronzes, 4 Silvers and 3 Golds. (2 Gold and 2 Silver won by 2 students who had previously competed. For everyone else it was their first time.) Congrats to all of you. You earned those victories.  

Student of the Month – Liv “Livvy” Nevo She’s been consistent since day one.  She puts in the work but also knows how to have fun- the spirit of CMAA! Congrats on your success in competition, I’m sure you will have much more of that in the future!  Let’s take some time to learn more about our teammate and competition representative!

Shifu: When did you initially get involved in martial arts? Liv: I started at CMAA on January 2013. Shifu: What drew you to martial arts?

Liv: I came to watch Lia try it out and I liked the weapons so I wanted to try it as well. I also wanted to get a sash.

Shifu: What are a few of the main things you have taken away from your time training? Liv: Kung Fu helps me with a lot of other things that I do - like strength and flexibility. I learned to be more serious about training. When I sit and judge other people's forms I learn to pay attention to details, which helps my forms.

Shifu: What’s your favorite part of training?

Liv: Game time and doing my forms Shifu: What was your most recent competition experience like?  Did you learn anything from it?

Liv: I was nervous. It's like doing your form on the big mat but more people are watching and you need to do your best. I learned that no matter how nervous you are, it doesn't matter once you're on the floor doing your form. Shifu: If you could give any advice to someone who's interested in martial arts, what would it be?

You have to work hard and you need to be able to laugh at jokes because Shifu is funny. Shifu: What are some of your favorite activities outside of Kungfu? 

Liv: Running, swimming, playing softball, doing art, and having fun. Shifu: You've traveled to a lot of cool places.  What were your favorite places and why!?

Liv: Hawaii. Because there are many pools and an ocean and it smells really good, like palm trees. Israel. Because my family lives there. Denmark. Because they have the best hot dogs and they have really good candy.

Thanks for taking the time to talk Livvy.  Keep up the great work!

Summary

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu

Monthly Newsletter - July

Monthly Newsletter – July Dear Friends,

Summer's here!  From seminars, to competitions, demo’s and parties, you won’t want to miss out on the action.

School Closings Kungfu Sash Test 3^rd Annual Kungfu Wushu Competition European Wushu Kungfu Champion Benoit Denolle Returns to CMAA Wushu in Shortlist of Added Events for 2020 Olympics Student of the Month – Sam “The Man” Carusone Chinese Cultural Gala Demo Recap Dragon Girls Documentary Beautiful Tai Chi Performance

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu School Closings CMAA will be closed Friday and Saturday, July 3^rd and 4^th for the July 4^th weekend!

Saturday July, 4th, Combatives will be held as regularly scheduled at 2:00 PM!

Please enjoy the weekend.  All other classes will be held as regularly scheduled.

Chinese Cultural Gala Demo Recap: Thanks everyone for coming out and showing your support.  You guys did awesome.  You were the highlight of the event (in my humble opinion).

Kungfu Sash Test: June 28 Great job to those of you who participated in June’s Sash Test. Due to the New Jersey competition and demo prep we were a little preoccupied with working our old routines and less focused on drilling new forms.  However you rose to the occasion and brought you’re ‘A’ game to the test. Congratulations to all of you who worked hard and performed your best- keep up the good work! 3^rd Annual Kungfu Wushu Competition: July 25^th If you are interested in competing, this is a great opportunity. CMAA will be organizing a competition team to participate in the 3^rd Annual Kungfu Wushu Competition. Yellow sashes and above are encouraged to compete.   Everyone is welcome to come and support your team!  As a smaller tournament with simple organization, this competition has been a good venue for new competitors. Just like sash tests, the true value of competition is still self-improvement.  All the fun and team bonding is just a nice extra!

Online Registration here:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1UuPl3A43Iy3FKKOSlouTAJfhWWZUCQLb-0Z54kpdDUU/viewform

Date: Saturday, July 25.  Competition begins at 10am sharp.  Location: Hopkins Academy High School Gymnasium. (1.5-2 hours from Albany, NY)

European Wushu Kungfu Champion Benoit Denolle Returns to CMAA

CMAA will be hosting European Wushu Kungfu Champion and good friend, Benoit Denolle for 3 weeks of training, coaching, seminars and FUN!  Stay tuned for all the details, you won’t want to miss any of the action!

If you didn’t get to meet Ben during his year at Union College, please read his article “Why Wushu is My Life Today”: http://www.martialartsalbany.com/why-is-wushu-my-life-today/

Wushu in Shortlist of Added Events for 2020 Olympics

"Wushu has been included in a shortlist of sports seeking to join the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

The Tokyo Olympic Organising Committee accepted eight of the 26 sports that sought to be added to the 2020 Games, including a joint bid from baseball and softball. The seven others were bowling, karate, roller sports, sport climbing, squash, surfing and wushu, reports Xinhua."

http://www.ibnlive.com/news/sports/wushu-in-shortlist-of-added-events-for-2020-olympics-1010453.html

Student of the Month – Sam “The Man” Carusone You’ll recognize him with his head down to the mat in a full straddle split.  He pushes himself hard during class.  Sometimes he goes so hard I’ve found myself running over to check if he’s alright!  But that’s not the only thing that makes this kid great.  One of the things that’s always made him stand out is that no matter how exhausted he is from conditioning he always says “Thanks for class!” when it’s over.  For his hard work and consistent gratitude, Sam Carusone is July’s Student of the Month!

Shifu: What drew you to martial arts? Sam: I tried many sports, and none of them appealed to me like Kung Fu does. After I train hard, I always leave feeling better about myself."

Shifu: What are a few of the main things you have learned? Sam: Never to give up no matter how hard it is, try to figure out a way to preserve and great things will happen."

Shifu: What’s your favorite part of training? Sam: I really like learning new forms especially with weapons. I can't wait to learn Spear and Straight Sword.

Shifu: What's your favorite subject in school and why? Sam: I love Science! I always have since I was old enough (3yrs.old) to read and research things. I'm naturally gifted in this area. I want to discover something big, find a cure, or just make a major contribution in science for our Earth.

Shifu: If you could give any advice to someone who is interested martial arts, what would it be? Sam: If you don't like to work hard, be part of an amazing team or thank your Shifu for class everyday, than CMAA might not be for you.

Shifu: Anything else about yourself you’d like to share? Sam: I consider myself a lucky kid- God has truly blessed me. I'm healthy and smart, I'm a good friend and I have an awesome sister and a mom who always encourage me no matter what!

Great talking with you Sam!  Keep up the hard work!

Dragon Girls Documentary This amazing documentary follows the life of several girls who have dedicated themselves to the rigors of studying Kungfu in China.  Having trained with several youth teams in China, I was particularly in awe of several young girls I trained with in Nanjing.  Two went on to the provincial Wushu team and only one has turned professional.  They’re stories are very similar.  The documentary is well worth watching. 

Dragon Girls Trailer:

Link to Dragon Girls Full Movie: https://vimeo.com/69101024

Beautiful Tai Chi Performance Please enjoy this beautifully choreographed synchronized Tai Chi performance.

Summary

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu

Monthly Newsletter – June

Monthly Newsletter – June Dear Friends,

It seems that spring is finally here!  From seminars, to competitions, demo’s and parties, you won’t want to miss out on the action!

School Closings 2015 New Jersey International Wushu Kungfu Tournament Recap Kungfu Sash Test 3^rd Annual Kungfu Wushu Competition Kungfu- Tai Chi Seminars Recap Student of the Month – Maya “The Next Karate Kid” Looney Chinese Cultural Gala Demo

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu School Closings All classes will be held as regularly scheduled.

2015 New Jersey International Wushu Kungfu Tournament Recap

Where to start!?  In short notice, CMAA put together a competition team.  I spoke to many coaches who all said the same thing about this tournament, that is was poorly organized but that all the top school on the East Coast would be sending teams.  I knew we would be facing our toughest competition to date.

With school’s bringing students to use this tournament as a benchmark for the USA National Wushu Team Trials selection in July (in California), CMAA students got to see firsthand what that caliber athlete looks like.  I think the take away was that this competition was certainly no walk in the park, but we weren’t out of our league either.  With all students placing top three in at least one event, and 1 gold medal each for Cindy Pang, Schuyler Wang, Caleb Juman and Shawn Paxton I know we are on the right track!

Win or lose, I hope everyone came away proud of their performance and ready to start working toward new goals. Special thanks to all the dedicated parents. Your time, energy and dedication is meaningful and appreciated!

Chinese Cultural Gala Demo: June 21 What: Chinese Cultural Gala Where: Sunday, June 21.  1:30pm – 3pm Where: Clifton Park – Halfmoon Public Library 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park NY 12065

Kungfu Sash Test: June 28 Please note that we will be holding our quarterly Sash Test on Sunday, June 28th at 10:30 am.

You know exactly what we will be testing but if you have any questions, check the Sash Requirements page on the website and feel free to clarify things with me during class.http://www.martialartsalbany.com/kungfu-sash-requirements/

If you are unsure whether or not you (or your child) are ready to test, please speak with me before or during class, via email at AlbanyCMAA@gmail.com or by phone (518) 755-7512.

Remember, you will not “get” your sash at CMAA – you will EARN it!  There is a big difference.  It’s important you (your child) learns the value of their sash- the value of hard work!  Let’s stay focused and step up our training so we’re fully prepared for the test!

White/Yellow/Green/Blue: $25, Red/Purple/Orange: $50, Light Brown/Dark Brown/Gold: $75 3^rd Annual Kungfu Wushu Competition: July 25^th If you are interested in competing, this is a great opportunity. CMAA will be organizing a competition team to participate in the 3^rd Annual Kungfu Wushu Competition. Yellow sashes and above are encouraged to compete.   Everyone is welcome to come and support your team!  As a smaller tournament with simple organization, this competition has been a good venue for new competitors.

Just like sash tests, the true value of competition is still self-improvement.  All the fun and team bonding is just a nice extra!

Online Registration here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1UuPl3A43Iy3FKKOSlouTAJfhWWZUCQLb-0Z54kpdDUU/viewform

Date: Saturday, July 25.  Competition begins at 10am sharp. Location: Hopkins Academy High School Gymnasium. (1.5-2 hours from Albany, NY)

Kungfu and Tai Chi Seminars Recap Sensitivity Training for Martial Arts What a blast!  Practical martial arts applications using softness, and multi angle weapons strikes and blocks presented in an easy to understand format. Instructor Steve Juman through his years of training traditional Kungfu, Bruce Lee’s JKD, and Kali has a deep understanding of sensitivity and how it can be applied practically in martial arts.  In addition, as a Kali (Phillipino Weapons) specialist, Master Juman knows how to quickly present weapons basics in a very practical way.

If you weren’t able to attend the seminar or just want more of the same type of fun, and practical training, come try a class!  Instructor Juman’s class is held every Saturday from 2-3pm.

Next- Tai Chi and Kungfu Seminars with Shifu Ching Yin Lee!  Coach Ching-Yin Lee has been training in Kung Fu since 1993 and Tai Chi Chuan since 1994. He is a two time US Wushu National Team Member and has been a Professional Coach since 2002. He has trained with Lu Xiao Lin and Dr. Sims at O-Mei Wushu Center, He Qiang and Chen Yang Ping (both two time National China Champions in Nanquan or Southern Fist) in Guangdong, China, and coach Herb Martin (Assistant Coach for 2008 US Olympic Boxing Team) at Enigma Boxing Gym.

Student of the Month – Maya “The Next Karate Kid” Looney Maya, her name is fun to say and on a weekly basis her hair changes to just about every color in in a rainbow.  When Maya first started, she seemed quiet and not quick sure of her physical skillsets.  Now, she’s often cracking the loudest inside crescent kicks in class and fearlessly charging into her front rolls.

As a team, we recently entered in our toughest competition to date.  When Maya asked if she could compete I told her, this will be a much more difficult competition than usual and I would not recommend it for a first time competitor BUT if she still wanted to, that I would help her prepare.  She said she wanted to take on the challenge.  What impressed me more than her physical improvements was her newly expressed attitude and confidence.  I’m not impressed by martial artists who claim to have no fear, I am impressed by those who choose to face their fears and accept new challenges.  For that, Maya Looney is this month’s Student of the Month. 

Shifu: When did you initially get involved in martial arts?

Maya: I got involved with marital arts about a year ago, however I've been interested in it since I was young. What brought me to actually doing Kung Fu was my former math teacher. She and her kids do Kung Fu and brought me along to a class and just kept bringing me. They pushed me to start and now I really love it.

Shifu: What drew you to martial arts?

Maya: Honestly the video games and tv shows I grew up with. Shows like Avatar the Last Airbender were particularly important to me. I remmber playing with my brother and pretending I was a fire bender with crazy kicks and hand gestures. (Although I do think I would be an earth bender if I had the choice now.)

Shifu: What are a few of the main things you have taken away from your time training?

Maya: As cheesy as it sounds I think I've learned that I shouldn't give up and to keep trying. When I started I was so afraid of doing dive rolls that I could barely even get into the position without feeling like I was going to pass out. Now they're one of my favorite things to do. I have really bad anxiety and being at the competition recently was hard for me but I'm so glad I did it and I am already thinking about the next one. Have somebody drag you to whatever it is you should be doing and after a while you'll either love it or it just becomes routine enough that you don't mind it.

Shifu: What’s your favorite part of training?

Maya: I love the feeling of improvement. I've grown a lot the past year and I can feel it almost every time I train. I can feel my splits getting lower and lower and every time I make good contact with a kick I feel so accomplished. It's amazing how far I've gone and I'm excited for the future.

Shifu: I know it’s still early, but could you tell us more about what you think you’d like to do after high school?

Maya: Right now my current plan is to go to art school somewhere in the city for fashion design. I would love to become a costume designer for things like Superhero movies and fantasy films. It combines all of my loves for nerdy things and sewing into one and the thought of designing clothes for a character I loved as a kid inspires me so much.

Shifu: If you could give any advice to someone who has a passion for martial arts, what would it be?

Maya: Just keep doing it. That's one of the best things I've ever done. I'm in the best shape of my life and I don't hate PE anymore because I actually have stamina now. It's really easy to find excuses even with things you like, and believe me I do it all the time, but don't make it a habit. If you can't be at your gym, train at home. If you want to get a split/kick/jump/etc. down, try it all the time. Nike is on the right track with their slogan being "Just do it."

Shifu: Anything else about yourself you’d like to share?

Maya: I'm going to be leaving for almost all of July for a college program at the Pratt Institute for fashion design. It's going to be tough leaving my family and Kung Fu for a month but I'm really excited for it.

Summary

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu

Monthly Newsletter - May

Monthly Newsletter – May Dear Friends,

It seems that spring is finally here!  From seminars, to competitions, demo’s and parties, you won’t want to miss out on the action!

School Closings Kungfu and Tai Chi Competition Kungfu- Tai Chi Seminars Student(s) of the Month – Martial Arts Brothers Jay and Jamin Sim Kungfu Sash Test Recap Chinese Community Center Party Recap CMAA Team Jackets Now Available! Kungfu Tai Chi Flexibility

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu School Closings We will be closed for Memorial Day, Monday May25th.  All classes are cancelled.

Regular Tai Chi Class is cancelled on Saturday May, 30^th for our Kungfu/Tai Chi Seminars!  See below for the details.

Kungfu – Tai Chi Competition If you are interested in competing, this is a great opportunity. CMAA will be organizing a competition team to participate in the 2015 New Jersey International Wushu-Kungfu Tournament. Yellow sashes and above are encouraged to compete.   Everyone is welcome to come and support your team!

Just like sash tests, the true value of competition is still self-improvement.  All the fun and team bonding is just a nice extra!

2015 New Jersey International Wushu-Kungfu Tournament Date: Sunday May 24, 2015

Location: Moorestown High School 350 Bridgeboro Road, Moorestown, NJ 08057, USA

Divisions by age, gender and experience in Traditional Kung Fu, Taiji and Contemporary Wushu. Team and combat form categories as well. Competitors invited from USA, Europe, Africa and Asia.

Check-in begins at 9:00 am and competition starts promptly at 10:00 am. Spectacular performance features Chinese and American Masters and Chinese National Champions.

Please get more information under “Competition” @ http://zhaochangjun.net/en/  

Kungfu and Tai Chi Seminars Sensitivity Training for Martial Arts Instructor Steve Juman through his year of training traditional Kungfu, Bruce Lee’s JKD, and Kali has a deep understanding of sensitivity and how it can be applied practically in martial arts.  Come learn about what it means to sense someone else energy and how you can redirect that energy and use it most efficiently to your advantage.

Weapons Applications In addition, as a Kali (Phillipino Weapons) specialist, Master Juman knows how to quickly present weapons basics in a very practical way.  You don’t have to learn more new forms to realize just how much you already know about the weapons you already train with!  From staff to sword, the techniques and philosophies are universally applicable.

Sensitivity Training For Martial Arts and Weapons Applications

Date: Saturday May, 30^th (5/30) Time: 9:15am-10:15am and 10:15am-11:15am. Cost: $30/Seminar or both for $40 ($20 each).  The class will be limited to the first 18 people who sign up to ensure students are given proper attention and instruction.

Tai Chi and Kungfu Seminars with Shifu Ching Yin Lee coming in June!

Chinese Community Center Kids Kungfu Party Recap

What a blast!  Everyone knows CMAA’s “work hard, play hard” motto.  While we did train first, we still had plenty of time for lot’s of games, lot’s of food, and lot’s of fun!  Thank you for another great year at the Chinese School!  Our last day of class at Chinese school is 5/10.  Please make sure to come visit CMAA and keep up your Kungfu practice!

Kungu Sash Test Recap Great job to those of you who participated in April’s Sash Test. Due all the Chinese New Year preparations and performances we didn’t have as much time to spend on our new forms.  With less time to prepare, you all seemed to rise to the occasion and bring you’re A game to the test. Congratulations to all of you who worked hard and performed your best- keep up the good work!

Student(s) of the Month – Martial Arts Brothers Jay and Jamin Sim.

Last year two brothers joined CMAA.  Having just moved from Texas to upstate NY, they quickly assimilated and became a part of our martial arts family.  They’ve been consistent with their training, and made steady progress.  Let’s get to know them a little better. Shifu: When did you initially get involved in martial arts? Chinese Martial Arts? Jamin: I started martial arts around 10 years ago with Taekwondo. I started kung fu about two and half years ago after we moved from Texas.

Jay: About seven years ago.

Shifu: What drew you to martial arts? Jamin: At first, martial arts was a culture thing, something cool that a lot of parents have their kids do. After a few years, I quit training to focus on school. Then in middle school, I got into a few... situations that made me want to restart learning to defend myself.

Jay: I first went (I think) cuz my brother went. But as I got older, I wanted to get stronger, be able to protect myself, and learn cool, new things like how to use weapons.

Shifu: What are a few of the main things you have taken away from your time training?

Jamin: What I got from training is, I think training in martial arts is the greatest form of exercise. You gain strength, speed, power, flexibility, and strategy. It also helps your mind and spirit. You somehow become more confident in yourself and more at peace. It's a great workout, and at the same time you learn to defend yourself.

Shifu: What’s your favorite part of training? Jamin: My favorite part of training is when I've been working hard to get a move right, like a jump kick or something, and it's your turn in the line, and I go and do it perfectly, or as close as I can get. Also, I like the feeling of flying for that half-second in the air during a jump. I sometimes practice getting higher jumps, so I get more air during my jumping front slap kicks.

Jay: Using weapons and learning new forms.

Shifu: Jamin, Can you tell us more about what you’ll be doing next year?  Why you chose that school/program and why you’re interested in this field of study? Jamin: Next year, I'm attending the SUNY Polytechnic Institute Colleges of Nanoscale Science and Engineering (CNSE) campus in Albany for Nanoscale Engineering. I was originally planning on majoring in mechanical engineering, but I also wanted to be closer to home. Nowadays, everything's getting smaller, so nanoscale engineering seemed like a good idea. Now I can go to college and still go to kung fu! As for why I chose engineering, I dunno. I have a knack for technical things. I've just always been interested in technology. Some people are kind of forced into the engineering programs 'cuz it makes a lot of money, but for me, it's something I like doing.

Shifu: What’s your favorite part of being a brother? Least favorite?

Jamin: My brother's 4 years younger than me, and I have a sister who's 7 right now. She always mimics us after seeing us do kung fu, but she won't join classes (For some reason). The best thing about having siblings is that you have people to have fun with. The worst is that sometimes (or most of the time) they get really nosy and annoying. I think Jay annoys me on purpose.

Jay: Being with him and talking with him makes me happy. Being with him when he's mad

Shifu: If you could give any advice to someone who has a passion for martial arts, what would it be? Jamin: Advice to other martial arts enthusiasts: the mind controls the body. Stay in school, learn as much as you can, and increase your mental abilities. That's crucial in martial arts, or even fighting in general. You need to strategize and adapt to every situation, and you can't do that without a quick mind. Speaking of school, after high school, go to college. It doesn't have to be a big fancy school that costs $50,000 a year, but go learn about something you're passionate about. Use what you learn in school and in martial arts to be the best you can be. And no matter what, you should be true to yourself, have a pure heart, and stand up for what you believe in. If you get in arguments, use violence as a last resort; try to talk your opponents out of it. But there are always some people who go around looking to cause trouble. If you encounter one of those guys, take 'em down. But try to be gentle. If you need to take someone down, don't give up without a fight.

Whatever you're doing, you should always give your best.

Jay: Just give it your all, learn and have fun.

Shifu: Anything else about yourself you’d like to share?

Jamin: In my free time I like to make or build stuff, watch videos or movies, play video games (if I can), or train in other ways, like watching martial arts videos and kind of increasing my martial arts repertoire.

Other stuff I'd like to say: I'm pretty certain I'm going to be famous, so everyone be nice to me! Haha! I'm slightly kidding. Slightly. I'm also pretty certain what my future's gonna be like. I'd like to use technology to help people. Maybe become a real life Iron Man to fight crime and stuff! Haha!

"Always expect something to go wrong. If you're wrong, you're not disappointed. If you're right, you're ready for it." -John Flanagan

Jay: I like to have fun (in general).

Thanks Jay and Jamin!  Keep up the hard work guys. CMAA Team Jackets Show off your CMAA pride in style (and comfort!). The new “soft style” CMAA jackets are now in and available in all sizes.  They are $64.99.  The CMAA warm up jackets (wind breaker material) are now on sale from $75 down to $59.99 and available in sizes Adult Extra Small and up! If you are interested please speak with Shifu ASAP as quantity is limited and once we’re out of a size we need to wait until all the jackets are sold to reorder!

Kungfu Tai Chi Flexibility New Challenge.  Head to toe flexibility challenge issued. Individual must have head to toe on at least one side or foot over head side split balance by July 4th.   Penalty is 500 V-Ups in 1 Hour. If you don't complete the V-Ups in the hour, you have to restart the next time you come to practice. I lost my head to toe a few years ago and accept the challenge.

Summary

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu

May Kungfu Competition Information

2015 New Jersey International Wushu-Kungfu TournamentDate: Sunday May 24, 2015 Location: Moorestown High School 350 Bridgeboro Road, Moorestown, NJ 08057, USA Divisions by age, gendar and experience in Traditional Kung Fu, Taiji and Contemporary Wushu. Team and combat form categories as well. Competitors invited from USA, Europe, Africa and Asia. Check-in begins at 9:00 am and competition starts promptly at 10:00 am. Spectacular performance features Chinese and American Masters and Chinese National Champions. Please get more information under "Competition" @ http://zhaochangjun.net/en/

Monthly Newsletter - April

Dear Friends, Though we celebrated the Spring Festival almost 2 months ago, it finally feels like its on its way! As always, there’s a lot happening at CMAA!  Please review the following information on:

School Closings Kungfu Sash Test Student of the Month – Laura Prendergast Shifu Lucas Wushu at the United Nations- Flashback! Chinese Community Center Party! CMAA Team Jackets Now Available! Kungfu- Tai Chi Seminar

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu School Closings All classes will be held as regularly scheduled.

Chinese Community Center Kids Kungfu Party! What: Kids Kungfu Party When: Saturday, May 2^nd. 5:15pm - 6:15pm Who:  YOU! Chinese Community Center (CCC) students, siblings, friends and family! Where: The Chinese Martial Arts Academy, 3A Johnson Road Latham NY 12110 COST: FREE!

Please RSVP by 4/26 in person, or by email/phone at AlbanyCMAA@gmail.com or (518) 755-7512.

Please join the Chinese Martial Arts Academy for an evening of Kungfu FUN! Our evening’s activities will include a Kungfu performance and light refreshments!  Feel free to bring a brother, sister or friend- or just come and make new friends here at CMAA!

Kungu Sash Test We will be holding our quarterly Sash Test on Sunday, April, 12^th at 10:30am.  If you are not sash testing you are still encouraged to come participate and support your teammates (no charge of course).

You know exactly what we will be testing but if you have any questions, check the Sash Requirements page on the website and feel free to clarify things with me during class.http://www.martialartsalbany.com/kungfu-sash-requirements/

If you are unsure whether or not you (or your child) are ready to test, please speak with me before or during class, via email at AlbanyCMAA@gmail.com or by phone (518) 755-7512.

Remember, you will not “get” your sash at CMAA – you will EARN it!  There is a big difference.  It’s important you (your child) learns the value of their sash- the value of hard work!  Let’s stay focused and step up our training so we’re fully prepared for the test!

White/Yellow/Green/Blue: $25, Red/Purple/Orange: $50, Light Brown/Dark Brown/Gold: $75

Student of the Month – Laura Prendergast

When you imagine a kungfu master in training, images of a young Bruce Lee or Jackie Chan flexing their six pack while striking a variety of Kungfu poses might come to mind.

The reality is, not all martial artists fit that description.  If you haven’t met Laura Prenderagast, let me introduce you.   As graduate of New York University studying Recombinant DNA Technology, Laura easily talks over my head on a variety of science related subjects.  She has competed and won gold in several tournaments over the last few years.  However, it is her consistent dedication that truly impresses me.  In the almost 4 years I have known Laura, she has remained steadfast and focused on her pursuit of martial arts mastery.  I’ve often wondered what motivates her.  As student of the month, I’m excited to find out what it is. Let’s get to it! Shifu: When did you initially get involved in martial arts? Chinese Martial Arts? Laura: I started training in Tae Kwon Do in college, but I didn’t get very far – only to green belt…since then, I’ve trained in Kenpo, and Shotokan Karate in NYC – but made only modest achievements in rank.  I started training in Kung fu at a school in Rockland county in 2005, and I continued to train when I got to Albany – I joined CMAA in 2010.  I think this is the longest period of time I’ve consistently trained.

Shifu: What drew you to martial arts? Why do you continue to work as consistently as you do? Laura: I guess I always liked watching martial arts movies.  I was younger and smaller than all the kids in my classes growing up, so I got picked on a lot.  I wasn’t really cultivating revenge fantasies… later, in college, I started investigating Oriental philosophies – I was drawn to Asian art, and I really liked the fact that the martial arts weren’t about beating people up, but more about discipline and commitment.   I work consistently, because I believe in continuous self-improvement.

Shifu: Is there anything in particular you've had to overcome? Laura: Yes, well two main things: first, the need to be approved of (I’m too old for it)…and second, the urge to be self-critical (cause I’m not sure it improves my technique at all).  Ok, three: keeping my eyes up.

Shifu: What are a few of the main things you have taken away from your time training? Laura: That’s really difficult to pin down.  I like to think I learn something every practice.  I like how you try to get us to focus on basics, like stances and fluidity and power.  I also think that just as there is “body English” there is also “body Chinese” – I can’t prove it, because I don’t actually speak Chinese, but I think that when I learn a form correctly, I might be expressing a philosophical concept correctly (I do hope to learn the language one day).  And I also respect what I learned about the Wushu symbol – that it literally means to “stop fight”.

Shifu: What’s your favorite part of training? Laura: That might be training with the kids.  I absolutely love watching them, seeing them learn, earnestly discussing minecraft, and arguing about who is taller.  They move because they love moving.  They don’t have inhibitions about doing backflips or cartwheels…and they represent so much potential.  It’s a little like getting a blank notebook for Christmas, except they’re writing it themselves. 

Shifu: If you could give any advice to someone (older or younger) who has a passion for martial arts, what would it be? Laura: Definitely keep training.  There are days of high energy and low energy.  Be mindful, and try to do at least one thing better every practice.  Thanks again for your dedication Laura.  It’s an important element to the energy at CMAA.

Shifu Lucas Wushu at the United Nations- Flashback! Lucas Geller, owner of the Chinese Martial Arts Academy in Colonie, was among 35 American athletes and more than 20 of the top wushu (literally martial arts) champions from China’s national team who performed at the United Nations on August 18th. The event, with the theme “Peace, Friendship and Health”, marked China’s 40th anniversary as a member of the UN. (Check out a video of the entire performance here!  Shifu’s Kungfu routine is at 1:04:05!) : http://www.martialartsalbany.com/shifu-geller-united-nations-kungfu-performance-with-jet-li/

CMAA Team Jackets Show off your CMAA pride in style (and comfort!). The new “soft style” CMAA jackets are now in and available in all sizes.  They are $64.99.  The CMAA warm up jackets (wind breaker material) are now on sale from $75 down to $59.99 and available in sizes Adult Extra Small and up! If you are interested please speak with Shifu ASAP as quantity is limited and once we’re out of a size we need to wait until all the jackets are sold to reorder!

Kungfu Tai Chi Seminar More info coming soon!

Summary

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu

Monthly Newsletter - March

Monthly Newsletter – March  

Dear Friends,

Happy Chinese New Year! As always, there’s a lot happening at CMAA!  Please review the following information on:

School Closings – CMAA Spring Break Kungfu Sash Test Chinese New Year Performance Recap CCC Chinese School Pictures Student of the Month – Jacob “Big Brother” Raphael Saying Goodbye to CrossFit Coach Kyle Roddy

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu School Closings CMAA Spring Break: March 16^th – March 21^st.

Kungfu Schedule:  CMAA will be closed Monday March 16^th- Saturday March 21^st.  We will hold a makeup Kungfu practice for all levels on Sunday, March 22 from 12-2pm.  Please note that Saturday’s Combatives class from 2-3pm will be held as regularly scheduled.

Modified Tai Chi Schedule: Thursday AM class will be cancelled. All other classes will be held as regularly scheduled.

CrossFit: 9-10am morning sessions on Monday, Wednesday and Friday are cancelled.  All evening and weekend classes will be held as regularly scheduled.

Chinese New Year Celebrations Recap  

The word is out- CMAA is THE school associated with authentic Chinese Martial Arts. Not only do we have the most qualified instructors (if I don’t say so myself  , we have an impressive young performance group! Based on our previous performances at the Egg , SUNY Albany, RPI, Clifton Park Community Center and Library, Schenectady Gazette Parade and more, we are now inundated with requests by many local organizations and groups to showcase our rising talents! In fact, I have had to turn down several of the requests due to time and scheduling constraints.

This year, we showcased our talents in several Chinese New Year Celebrations.  Please enjoy our performance at this year’s Chinese Community Center New Year Celebration, hosted by the Capital District Chinese Community Center and SUNY Albany’s Confucius Institute at SUNY Albany’s Performing Arts Center!

Chinese Community Center – Chinese School Picture Day photo of Shifu and Cindy's Wushu Kungfu class at the Chinese Community Center’s Chinese School.

Christmas Party Photo’s.

Kungu Sash Test We will be holding our quarterly Sash Test on Sunday, April, 12^th at 10:30am.  If you are not sash testing you are still encouraged to come participate and support your teammates (no charge of course).

You know exactly what we will be testing but if you have any questions, check the Sash Requirements page on the website and feel free to clarify things with me during class.http://www.martialartsalbany.com/kungfu-sash-requirements/ If you are unsure whether or not you (or your child) are ready to test, please speak with me before or during class, via email at AlbanyCMAA@gmail.com or by phone (518) 755-7512.

Remember, you will not “get” your sash at CMAA – you will EARN it!  There is a big difference.  It’s important you (your child) learns the value of their sash- the value of hard work!  Let’s stay focused and step up our training so we’re fully prepared for the test!

White/Yellow/Green/Blue: $25, Red/Purple/Orange: $50, Light Brown/Dark Brown/Gold: $75

Student of the Month – Jacob “Da Shi Xiong (“Big Kungfu Brother”) Raphael Wushu Kungfu is not a kids martial arts specifically.  However, because the physical requirements of Long Fist are demanding, and similar to gymnastics, younger people tend to adjust to the training more readily.  The flexibility/mobility required for low stances and high kicks, and the emphasis on jump kicks and tumbling become particularly challenging as we age.  For Jake, who is one of our “big kids” has readily accepted the challenge and risen to the occasion, excelling in Long Fist with grace and power.  In addition, he is a leader.  Without being asked, he naturally organizes the younger students and helps keep them on task and focused on their training.

Shifu: When did you initially get involved in martial arts?  Chinese Martial Arts? Jake: I’ve been studying martial arts in one form or another for over twenty years!  I started my training at a Taekwondo school in East Hartford, CT where I learned the  fundamentals.  My passion for Chinese martial arts was sparked much later in college.  During my sophomore year, my best friend Andrew Law encouraged me to join the fledgling Brandeis University Lion Dance Troupe and a very fun journey ensued.  We toured from college to college, performing in a variety of cultural shows and celebrations.  Our performances were a mishmash of martial arts and lion dancing, often times with a comedic result.  After graduating, I became more serious by joining the Chinese Merchants Association in Boston, MA and my training really took off.  This time of year,  I’m always nostalgic for the New Year celebrations in Boston when we would lion dance throughout the city.

Shifu: What drew you to martial arts? Jake: I am a very independent person and, at least initially, I enjoyed the self-reliance that comes with practicing martial arts.  With many classical sports, the emphasis is typically on being a strong part of the team.  With martial arts, I liked that I would be responsible for my personal progress and that I could be my own “team” without relying on others.  Through my years of training however, I’ve happily come to the realization that this is not the case.  While I do prize my personal growth, I now treasure the opportunity to work with others who share my goals and aspirations.  A good martial arts school is indeed a TEAM in every way.

Shifu: What are a few of the main things you have taken away from your time training? There are so many!  I’ll just say practice both fast and slow.  When I run through a form slow, I can carefully assess every step.  Is my stance correct?  How’s my posture?  Are my hands positioned just right?  When I practice fast, I find out just how well I really know a form (plus it keeps me in shape).  Practicing fast exposes your weaknesses and areas for improvement very quickly.

Shifu: What’s your favorite part of training? Jake: My favorite part of training is learning and practicing forms.  I love the combination of mental and physical exercise. When a form just “clicks”, there is no better feeling.  Learning the applications for each movement is also amazing.  I love that forms can be both beautiful and practical at the same time.

Shifu: As a professional, husband and father, how have you adapted to keep martial arts a part of your life? Jake: I’d say that most of the credit goes to my wife for understanding that martial arts training is very important to me. She helps me carve out the time needed to practice and attend class, despite her own incredibly demanding schedule (she’s a surgical resident – yikes!).

Also, as Shifu often points out, you can train almost anywhere and anytime.  I stretch while studying, practice forms while watching the news and I am particularly fond of running through forms in my head, just visualizing the movements, whenever I have a moment.

Shifu: If you could give any advice to someone (older or younger) who has a passion for martial arts, what would it be? Jake: First, I’d say that persistence and discipline are your two strongest assets in martial arts.  Never focus on where you are now, focus on where you’re going.  Don’t worry about how “good”, strong or fast you are right now.  What matters is your plan for the future.  If you set the right goals and work towards them persistently, you WILL improve.  Over time, you can achieve anything.  This is especially true for the younger students; time is on your side!

Second, I’d point out that there is always room for improvement.  Even the most talented among us have areas to work on.  Always strive to be better.  This doesn’t just include leaning new forms and techniques, it is about refining the things that you have already learned.  I will be practicing Five Stance for the rest of my life and it still won’t be perfect.

Lastly, I’d advise all students to help others and let them help you, in training and in life.  Give constructive advice to your peers and listen closely when they return the favor.  You have a wonderful resource in CMAA.  The students are terrific and your Shifu is a great coach who is committed to your success.  Listen up and do your best!

Thanks for all your positive energy and hard work Jake!

Saying Goodbye to CrossFit Coach Kyle Roddy We’ve all fallen in love with his quiet professionalism and warm smile. Next week will be Coach Kyle Roddy's last week at Latham CrossFit. It is with mixed emotions that we say goodbye to him. Sad he won’t be with us motivating with high quality coaching, but happy to know he’ll move on to an opportunity which will better allow him to reach his full potential. Please join us this coming Saturday as we organize a Latham CrossFit send off for our good friend.

Summary

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu

Monthly Newsletter - February

Monthly Newsletter – February

Dear Friends,

Happy Chinese New Year! As always, there’s a lot happening at CMAA!  Please review the following information on:

School Closings Kungfu Sash Test Recap CMAA Open House Recap CMAA in High Demand for Chinese New Year Performances Interview with Martial Arts Master Steve Juman CMAA Wall Scrolls – Beautiful and Meaningful 1 Year FREE at CMAA – Referral Program!

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu School Closings Due to our Chinese New Year Celebrations we will be canceling our Kungfu classes from 11:15-2pm on Saturday, February 14th and Saturday, February 21^st.  A single two hour make up class will be held on Sunday Feb. 15 and 22^nd, 12pm-2pm for all levels/ages!  Thank you for your understanding and flexibility.

Additionally, with the winter weather looming, please stay tuned to inclement weather closings.  I will post school closings on the websites homepage.  However, it might not display on certain mobile devices which automatically default to the mobile site.  Please call (518) 755-7512 if you are not sure!

CMAA In High Demand for Martial Arts Performances!

CMAA has been invited to showcase our talents at a few events this year, including an Open House on Sunday, January 18^th, 1:30-3pm and several Chinese New Year celebrations in Clifton Park on Saturday 2/14 and at SUNY Albany on 2/21 (3-5).  We may even organize a group for a performance at the East Greenbush YMCA.  Stay tuned for more details! Open House Demo Review What a success!  Our Open House demo went smoothly as we showcased the various disciplines practiced at CMAA.  From empty hand and kungfu weapons forms, to Tai Chi, and Kali weapons, it was a high flying and hard hitting demo punctuated with a lot of laughs and fun.  Our friend Ruth Brown brought in quite a few friends and it was a pleasure to showcase our programs for them.  I look forward to having another open house geared towards friends of our own students this summer!

To see some of the action, check out your classmates demo’s below!

Cindy and Emily Spear Micah Southern Caleb and Brenna Spear Yunhan “Turbo” Staff Cindy and Minyi Sword Schuyler Staff Renee and Liv Long Fist

Chinese New Year Celebrations

Saturday February 14th at the Clifton Park Library and our most important demo - Saturday Feb. 21 at SUNY Albany for the Chinese New Year!  For these two demo’s there is a Light Brown Sash and above requirement as we will only be demo’ing advanced forms. Note there are two Orange Sash qualifiers who know their first advanced form well enough to demo.  The stage is much smaller at SUNY than the egg and performances are to be kept under 5 minutes.  Those are the main reasons why we have to be so selective now. Everyone is welcome to support your team and come enjoy the show!

Check out the video below to see some of CMAA’s performance from last year.

Kungu Sash Test Great job to those of you who participated in January’s Sash Test. Due all the competitions and performances at the end of the summer, our last quarterly sash test was pushed back later than usual which meant this “quarter” was several weeks shorter.  With less time to prepare, you all seemed to rise to the occasion and bring you’re A game to the test. Also, with so many of you taking a winter vacation, I was equally impressed by those of you who were not at CMAA as much the few weeks prior, but kept up with your training and didn’t seem to miss a beat! Congratulations to all of you who worked hard and performed your best- keep up the good work!

CMAA Chinese Wall Scrolls As you know, CMAA has four large Chinese calligraphy scrolls on the wall.  These four scrolls are special for a few different reasons.  They are not simply Chinese scrolls bought at the Asian Imports store in the mall.  I thought long and hard about what different things we emphasize in the art we practice.  After months of deliberation I found a saying that I thought best encompassed our approach to training Chinese Martial Arts.  On the day of our grand opening Grandmaster Shifu Jiang Jianye presented us with four beautiful, personally handwritten scrolls which read: “Xi Wu Yi Cu Xue” Study the Martial Arts to Promote Learning

“Lian Wu Yi Qiang Shen” Train the Martial Arts to Strengthen the Body

“Shang Wu Yi Qin Zhi” Practice the Martial Arts to Develop Will “Han Wu Yi Xiu De” Do Martial Arts to Cultivate Ethics

In this case “Wu”, or Martial Arts is the common character connecting all four lines.  This is the same “Wu” symbol that adorns our school’s wall and uniforms.  We are not a school that emphasizes martial arts for combat, but a school that recognizes the inherent multitude of benefits from training in the martial arts.  It is for these reasons that CMAA has students male and female, spanning ages 4 to 84.  It never ceases to amaze me how everyone is benefiting from martial arts for so many different reasons.

Interview with Martial Arts Instructor – Steve Juman

Shifu: When did you initially get involved in martial arts?  Chinese Martial Arts? I started my martial arts training at the young age of 11 in a Japanese art called Jiu Jitsu Ryu. I then ventured into Tae Kwon Do for a couple of years. At the age of 20 I began my training in the art of Jeet Kune Do.

Shifu: What drew you to martial arts? Like every martial arts kid I loved the energy and expression of the late Bruce Lee. As a kid I loved watching the old Kung Fu movies starring Jackie Chan, Yuen Bio and Samo Hung. I was intrigued by their fluent movements and strength.

Shifu: At what point did you realize martial arts were something you wanted to make a serious priority in your life? Martial arts became a priority in my life when I realized that I was good at it. I loved the education of movement, the idea of being a scholar and a warrior was appealing to me. My sifu always said to me “Gung Fu is for everybody and not for everybody” he meant it will change your outlook in life but some people will never see it.

Shifu: What are a few of the main things you have taken away from your time training? The beauty of martial arts is not about the weapons training or the cool moves it’s about how you as a person express the art…that’s the beauty of Gung Fu.

Shifu: With training in so many different styles, and tutelage under different instructors, how do you make your blend so cohesive? Great question, Bruce Lee said “unless you have three arms or three legs there are no new moves” you always open your mind “empty your cup” to understand the connections what you have learned to what you already know, then make it efficient and effective.

Shifu: As a teacher, coach, husband and father of four, how have you adapted to keep martial arts a part of your life? All four of my children grew up in a household where martial art was the norm. Micah, Caleb and Noah started playing with my Kali sticks and focus mitts before they were walking. When Micah was three years old I once lost him in Sports Authority and found him in the sports section punching the hanging bag. Welcome to my life.

Shifu: What does your family think of it? We all love training including my wife she is by far my best student.

What advice would you give to others as far as training with weights, food supplements, etc.? Train a minimum of three times a week to progress and treat your body like a temple. Work hard now so it’s easier later. Don’t rush through the basic it is the foundation you build on.

Is there anyone that you are inspired by or that you look up to in the martial arts community?  Looking back all these years, who do you consider as your main instructor or influence? I have had so many great instructors in my life this is a tough question to answer. Foremost my main instructor in JKD has to be Sifu Pete, then Dan Inosanto, followed by Paul Vunak, and finally Francis Fong. These guys are legends in the arts to me.

If you could give any advice to someone (older or younger) who has a passion for martial arts, what would it be? To the younger kids I would say work hard, stay focused and have fun. The art expresses you as an individual.

To the older practitioners, keep your mind, heart and spirit strong eventually we realize it’s not about power and strength but about efficient movement and space. I was always faster than my Sifu but he always knew how to get there first.

Check out the exciting video below to see Master Juman in action!

Save Money with the CMAA Referral Program! CMAA Referral Program- Easy as 1, 2,3,4,5.

1. Earn $50 when your first referral joins. 2. Earn $100 when your second referral joins. 3. Earn $250 when your third referral joins. 4. Earn $500 when your fourth referral joins. 5. Earn ONE YEAR FREE when your fifth referral joins.

This will be even easier now with our new CMAA flyers.  You can pick them up for free at the school. Just write your name on the back of the bottom info tabs and when people come in with your flyer tab they will be considered your referral!

*Please note that offer applies to annual memberships and new referrals only (as of 1/1/15).

Summary

As usual please stay tuned for more exciting action at CMAA!

Best,

Shifu