Well, here I am again.  I have hesitated to replace the last column for sentimental reasons.  Seems like every day I do something that closes the door between my friend who passed away and me.  I know that it is necessary; I just don't like doing it.
 
        I do have something to talk about and celebrate.  As of June, I am in my 30th year in the martial arts.  Since I was the frist student at "The Tradition" here in Athens, it follows that the school is also celebrating its 30th year in existence.  I truly think that these 2 occasions are somthing to celebrate and at some point we are going to have a party.  It gives me much to reflect on when I think of all the training I've done, people I've met, travel, sweat, spilled blood, a few broken bones, and many absolutely wonderful memories.  I have had the opportunity to work out with and under the instruction of some truly wonderful people and extraordinary martial artists.  They are all counted among those people who have enriched my life.
 
        I must take another opportunity to stress the impact of Sensei Cecil T. Patterson on my life.  He was always a positive in my life.  We talked quite often by phone about the Federation and other topics of mutual interest.  He had much wisdom to impart.  Sensei was never easy on me (or anyone else for that matter) on the dojo floor.  He was demanding and I'm a better person and martial artist for it.  I wanted to please him; but most of all I never wanted to do anything to embarrass the Federation and my style (and I still don't).  I'll never forget the Sunday afternoon up in Nashville with some of my assistant instructors observing the Black Belt exam.  I was leaned up against the wall quietly chatting with some friends when Sensei walked out of the office.  He looked down at us and his only comment was "Tom, you're getting a little fat aren't you?"  I replied "Yes Sir".  I was a little stung; but I also realized he was only telling me the truth.  A few weeks later when we next talked again I was proud to tell him that I had lost 15 pounds.  I wish he were here to say the same thing to me now.  Believe me, he would.
 
        Yesterday I read an article on a martial arts website.  It was written by a leading American Wado practitioner by the name of  Sensei Tom Kosslow.  I have heard of Tom but I don't know him.  I hope he doesn't mind me referring to his article.  It was about growing old in the martial arts.  He talked about all the limitations that age has brought to him as a martial artist.  I recognized much of what he said in things happening to me.  He also talked about the freedom getting older has given him.  How he has nothing to prove and doesn't feel at all ashamed if he has to take a break every once in a while.  It was something I needed to read.  I have been really beating myself up lately because I'm just not the person I was at 30.  It also helped when I figured out that I am 2 years older than Tom.  Don't get me wrong, I have no intention of retiring from karate.  However, I do intend to be more realistic in my expectations of myself.  Thanks for the article Tom; there was a lot of wisdom there.
 
        Well, I guess that about does it for this time around.  Take care of yourselves and I'll talk to you again soon.
 
                                    Tom Stevenson, Rokudan
                                    Regional Director, USEWF

        I hope everyone is having a Happy (albeit cold) Easter.  This is a very special day for all Christians.  This day gives life hope and meaning beyond just a mere existence for a few years.

        I have a couple of things on my mind and 1 is something I truly hate to do.  I guess I'll use this column to officially say goodbye to my best friend for over 20 years.  In 1982 I was hired to teach and coach at a little K-9 school here in Limestone County.  The same day Philip Eubanks was hired to teach at the high school we fed into.  We attended orientation together and a bond that lasted almost 25 years was immediately formed.  As I have mentioned before, Philip was a huge man.  All of 6'9" and 350 pounds, he was a red headed bear of a man.  I am 6'4" and 270 pounds, so we made a rather conspicuous pair.  It was more than the natural comparing of notes of 2 large men who had chosen the same profession.  Other than my real brother, same size as me, I was closer to Philip at the soul level than any other person I've ever known.  Yes, he is the one I went with to get his son when we found out the boy had committed suicide.  I saw him through the deaths of his parents and son and he saw me through the deaths of my parents.  He's the one that jumped on a Greyhound bus with me and rode all the way to Albuquerque, NM and toured the southwest.  By the way, we don't fit on those bus seats.  Anyway, a couple of months ago Philip had a sudden stroke and passed away.  I have been devestated; but my other friends and my faith (Philip was also my pastor) have helped me through it.  Buddy, I'll miss singing with you and football season will never be the same; but I WILL see you again.  So keep that guitar tuned.  We aren't real good; but we know a lot of songs and we make a truly joyful noise.

        Next, I want to talk about the tournament in March.  What a great day.  The system is truly growing by leaps and bounds.  Congratulations to all the planners, workers, competitors, and especially my people Paula Fialk, Alisha Langley, and  my partner Bill Ireland for their awards.  All of you guys are winners in my book.

        While there I had an opportunity to have a long conversation with Buck Ford that I want to mention.  As I've said before, Buck is Tennessee Ernie Ford's son, a movie and tv actor in his own right, and a marvelous martial artist.  Our Federation is blessed to have people like Buck.  Aside from all that, Buck is a great guy who I am honored to call friend.  He is one of those people who make martial arts in general and Wado in particular better just by having him around.  Anyway, we got to talking about kata; both as a general topic and in tournaments.  We found much common ground and he asked that I speak to that in this column.  I hope my writing skills are up to it.  When I'm teaching a kata or trying to judge one in a tournament.  I try to look at the performer AND just outside the edge of the techniques.  In my humble opinion, I should have the impression of something happening there that the performer is responding to.  It can't be just a series of moves.  We can do all of those we need in floor techniques.  The performer is supposed to be engaged in combat at some level.  I, as an onlooker, should be able to visualize what the performer is fighting.  I'm probably not saying this well; but if all I see is a series of techniques, then no matter how well executed they are, something is missing.  I truly hope that for my students the closest they ever come to a fight for their life is in the katas they run.  Believing that, it becomes Bill's and my job to make them feel the same way.  When I tell them I'm going to look a little outside their kata they should know what I mean and make me see it.  To me you are either engaging in a struggle with one or more opponents or you're just doing a series of prearranged techniques.

        I'd be interested in hearing your thoughts.

Until next time take care of yourself.

                                   Tom Stevenson, Rokudan
                                   Regional Director, USEWF

        After many months I'm back with something to say and a little time to say it; at last.  The last half year has been extraordinarily busy and it's not over yet.  I started trying to execute my mother's estate last April and I'm still at it; although, the end may be in sight.  Definitely one of the most frustrating things I've ever tried to do; especially since I want to try to follow my mother's wishes to the letter.

        I have 3 separate items I want to mention in this column; so I'll get right to it.  First, I want to mention the promotion of both Dave and Chris Button to 5th degree this past December.  The twins are 2 of the finest men I know and were richly deserving of the promotions.  In their professional lives, they are both Captains on the Huntsville, Al. fire department.  They bring dedication and professionalism to whatever they undertake.  I don't think that they would mind if I added that they (as well as the rest of us) leave some of that behind on our annual summer trips.  Maybe the older one gets the more childish one will act at times.  My biggest problem is trying to figure out what aliases they will be using each year.  That's an inside joke.

        Next, I am thrilled to announce that Mr. Bill Ireland, Yondan, has become a full partner in "The Tradition"; and will be taking the school over at some time in the future.  I had been looking for someone to be there when it came time for me to give the school up.  I have run the school for over 23 years.  Many of those years I was teaching school all day; coaching any one of several sports; and then teaching karate at the Rec. Center 3 nights a week.  Needless to say my free time was limited.  Don't get me wrong; I loved it, but it took its toll.  I retired from coaching a couple of years ago and have been actively getting Bill ready to take over.   When the moment comes I don't think I could leave the school in better hands.  Bill is an excellent instructor; and all of the students think the world of him (as do I).

        Finally, Sat., Mar.24 is the date of this year's 5th Annual C.T. Patterson Memorial Tournament to be held at Columbia State Community College in Columbia, Tn.  Mark your calendar and be there for the USEWF's biggest day of the year.  I look forward to this every year.  Let's work to make this one the biggest and best yet.  You can get the link to the Feds. website on our links page and get all the info. you need.  Hope to see you there.

         Until next time.

                                Tom Stevenson, Rokudan
                                Regional Director, USEWF

P.S.  Congratulations to Ilke Lander on her shodan.  Fantastic performance from a great person.

        Hello again!  I guess I'm ready to get back online.  I know it's been a while; but I plead extenuating circumstances.

        I do want to report that the Federation tournament this year was a huge success.  From what I understand there were over 400 competitors; and the competition seemed to be very stiff in most of the rings.  It was a pleasure to meet so many old friends; and make some new ones.  I'm not a tournament person (and never will be); but I truly look forward to that one Saturday in March every year.  I also truly believe that Sensei Patterson would be proud of what John, Taylor, Mr. and Mrs. Z, and all of the others involved have made happen in the last few years.  He also would be very pleased, I believe, to see how the Fed. has rebounded from the loss of some schools since his passing.  We have made up the lost membership and are opening new schools.  Congratulations and best of luck to the new school owners.  You can find an up to date list of Fed. schools on the Feds. website listed among the contacts on this site.

        I do have to tell you that I have a reason for not posting lately.  A month and a half ago my mother passed away suddenly.  It has been very hard to motivate myself since then; but I have had wonderful help in getting back at least some of my drive.  I never knew my family and I had so many friends.  I heard from people all over the U.S.; and their words truly helped.  I can't begin to tell you what it meant to have my students at school be so kind and understanding.  My brother, sisters, and I are truly blessed.  I have the added responsibility of being the executor of Momma's will; but I think that the family ties are strong enough to deal with this without rancor.

        I also want to extend my condolences to John and Valerie Honeycutt on the death of John's father at about the same time as my mother.  I won't go in to how much John and Val mean to me; I'll just say I love them and they know it.  I didn't know John's father; but, as I said to John, to produce a son like him he had to have been a good man.  Also, I'll see you guys in Texas in a few weeks.

        Finally, you guys in Texas getting ready for the Shodan test work hard; it will be worth it.

        Talk to you guys again soon.
                                        Tom Stevenson, Rokudan
                                        Chairman, Southern Region U.S.E.W.F.

        Welcome to 2006!  It seems like only yesterday that we welcomed the new milennium; and here we are in 2006.  Time does seem to be speeding up.

        I know it's been awhile since I submitted a new column; but I just haven't been able to take the last one down.  The story of that young man's suicide is still unfolding in our lives.  We have had yet another of our students get caught in the process of setting up a suicide attempt.  This is madness.

        On a lighter note, my family and I had a great holiday season.  My brother got to spend almost 2 weeks here from his home in Arkansas.  He and I spent a lot of time together; and that means a great deal to me.  He is a great guy.  Christmas was wondrous; as usual.  I'm sure I'll start planning for the next one several months in advance like I always do.

        The new year has brought several new students to "The Tradition"; and they are welcome additions.  It never ceases to amaze me the quality of people that get in the martial arts.  I am blessed just to be acquainted with them.

        I would like all of you readers who are members of the USEWK to mark your calendar for March 18.  That is the date of the Fed. tournament this year.  By the way, don't just mark the calendar, plan on being there.  It is always a great day; and this year we are going back home.  Yep, we're back in Columbia, Tn.  You can go to the weblinks page and link on to the Fed. website and get all the information.  You can even register online.  I know that John, Taylor, Mr. and Mrs. Z, and all the others involved in bringing this tournament off are going to have an excellent day planned.

        On a final note, all of us here in Alabama would like to extend our condolences to the family of Mr. Ken Eubanks, owner and operator of the Olympic Studios in Kentucky.  Ken was a pioneer in martial arts here in the south and was a very nice man.  Martial arts will miss him.

    Until we talk again, take care.

                         Tom Stevenson, Rokudan
                         Regional Director, USEWF

        Well, here it is at the end of June and it seems the summer is already half over.  Time seems to be passing by ever faster.  Such is life, I suppose.  I need to comment on a couple of things; so let's get on with it.

        Saturday night, June 11, Chris and Dave Button and I set out on our annual trek out to Texas to check in with the folks out at North Texas Wado-Ryu in Midlothian just south of Dallas.  As usual, John and Valerie Honeycutt and all the karateka and families from out there were wonderful to us.  We got to teach a couple of classes and then conduct a Black Belt exam.  Congratulations to Josh and Kenny on getting their ShoDans.  Also, congratulations to Jason Hahn on his promotion to NiDan and John Boye on his promotion to SanDan.  The twins and I always look forward to the trip.  The folks out there have their own western version of southern hospitality.  For those of you who are interested, Texans are so friendly that they've even started serving sweet tea in some of their restaurants.  Talk about trying to please.

        On Wednesday the 15th the twins, John H., Jason H., and I left for Camden, Arkansas.  We were met there by my brother and spent the night there with him and his wife, Deb.  We were all thoroughly thrashed by Hemi and Hasty, their pugs.  Thanks for the hospitality Deb and may I again compliment you on your beautiful home.

        Thursday morning, bright and early, the 5 of us along with my brother Randy headed out for our 11th annual men's summer outing.  This time we had cabins rented at Natchez State Park ouside of Natchez, Ms.  We spent 3 days touring the area and taking it easy.  Natchez has a lot of history and we really enjoyed the time there; especially the twilight horsedrawn carriage tour of the historic part of the city.  Of course, one of the favorite parts of our yearly trips are the nightly card games.  I can't even begin to describe them; you'd just have to be there to believe it.  Let me just say that there's more than 1 way to spin the Wheel of Fortune.

        We've already started planning our next year's trip.  We're thinking about staying in Texas and going to a Dude Ranch for a few days out under the stars.  Since I haven't been on a horse in over 30 years, it ought to be a cinch.  I hear the twins are good horsemen (until they run out of quarters).  Anyway, I know it will be a blast.  Can't wait.

        Friday morning, the 8th of July, Bill Ireland (my assistant instructor here at The Tradition) and I are heading to Blairsville, Ga. to teach a couple of classes at Bob and Ilke Lander's school.  I'm looking forward to this trip because there are some really good people there AND I get to see Emma (Bob and Ilke's baby).  She's a beautiful little girl and the parents are justifiably proud of her.  Fortunately, it looks like she'll look like her mother (whew!).  Sorry Bob.  I'm kidding them; Bob and Ilke seem like wonderful parents.  Anyway, we'll be seeing you in a few days.

        It won't be long after the next trip before school starts back again.  I'll be starting my 30th year as a high school teacher.  I can't believe it.  I'm starting my 28th year in Wado-Ryu; and at times I still feel like a beginner.  I'm thankful for what Wado and my association with the U.S. Eastern Wado Federation have done for me over the years.  All of you take care of yourselves until we talk again.

                                  Thomas M. Stevenson, RokuDan
                                  Chairman, Southern Region USEWF

        Well, here it is the first day of spring and I can't help but think that evryone is walking around with a little lighter mood and a smile on their face.  I've waited for this all winter.  I know we'll probably have a little more cold weather; but warm weather will soon be here for good.  That's enough to put a spring in anyone's step.

        The 3rd Annual Cecil T. Patterson Memorial Tournament was held yesterday in Nashville; and it was a resounding success.  There were well over 300 competitors and the competition looked to be stiff in all the rings.  I don't have all of the final results from my people at "The Tradition"; but I know several of them came home with trophies.  I'm very proud of all who competed.  I also want to say how good it was to have Sensei Bill Ireland, Yondan, at the tournament.  Bill is the assistant instructor at "The Tradition".  His job has prevented him from getting to be at some of the previous tournaments.  I know how highly the students of the school regard him.  I feel the same way.  Bill is a great instructor and a fine man.  I'm honored to have him as a friend.

        It was great to have the "Terrific Texans" in town Thursday and Friday.  They attended our class Thursday night and we had a great time together.  They thanked us for our hospitality; but, I can assure you, they repay it in full every year when we go out there.  John and Val have a great group of people.  Get those folks ready for the Black Belt exam in June.  The twins and I (and any of our other instructors who can make it) can't wait to get out there.  Tell Caroline to have the blackberry cobbler ready.

        My congratulations to John Patterson, Taylor Hayden, Shane Patterson, James and Jean Ellen Zimmerman, Bill Taylor, Buck Ford, and all those who planned and conducted the tournament.  Fantastic job!  It was great to see so many of the folks in the Federation that I don't get to see very often.  It is plain to see that the Federation has withstood Sensei Patterson's death and is coming back stronger than ever.

        Finally,  Sensei Melvin Brown, a member of the Federation Board of Directors, is presently serving in Iraq.  He has started an adjunct dojo to his Bushido Dojo in Tennessee.  He will soon be testing 20 service men and women for their gold belts.  What a story; and what a great guy.  Melvin, our thoughts and prayers are with you, your students, and all our service men and women who are in harm's way.  This old flight deck crewman from the U.S.S. Kitty Hawk (Vietnam '69) salutes you all.

        Until next time, take care of yourself.

                       Tom Stevenson, Roku Dan
                        Regional Director, U.S.E.W.K

        Well, here it is, late January and the holiday season is over.  I usually descend into a deep blue funk on Jan. 2nd and don't come out of it until sometime in March when the first real springlike days get here.  However, so far I don't seem to be sinking as low as fast.  Maybe it has something to do with having a few warm days and keeping very busy.  I'm sure the winter blues are waiting out there for me somewhere.

        I did have a wonderful Christmas this past year.  My brother and his wife came home from Arkansas for a week and he and I got to spend some really good time together.  He is a great guy, and we enjoy each other's company very much.  He and his wife, Deb, came in their motorhome and brought their 2 half grown pugs Hemi (after my brother's Dodge pickup) and Hasty.  Those 2 dogs are a handful.  As my brother says, you walk in the house with them and Wrestlemania breaks out.  My family and Randy's (my brother) went to Nashville for Bama's bowl game.  Could have asked for a better outcome, but had a great time staying over and visiting some of the Christmas events.

        I don't really like to get political in the column; but I'm going to say a couple of things anyway.  I'm going to be recalling that particular holiday Christmas for as long as I'm around.  I will be celebrating it as the birth of Christ with my family and friends for the rest of my life and I hope my descendants celebrate it long after I'm gone.  I don't mean to offend anyone; but I won't apologize for my beliefs either.  If your beliefs don't coordinate with mine, that's all right.  Celebrate it as a time of giving, being with family and friends, and hoping for peace on Earth.  I don't see a downside to that.  By the way, early in Dec. each year I send Happy Hanukkah wishes to a Jewish friend of mine.  Hanukkah doesn't offend me at all; and she seems genuinely pleased that I think about her.  I am greatly disturbed by the number of people who give in to this politically correct foolishness and should know better.  They need to add a little iron to their diet and maybe it'll help straighten their backbone.  Now I'll get off my soapbox.

        Circle the date, March,19, on your calendar; and set your sights on being in Nashville, TN that day for the 3rd Annual Cecil T. Patterson Memorial Tournament.  This is about our 30th annual tournament; but the 3rd since the death of Sensei Patterson.  This is our system's biggest day of the year.  I can't wait to see all my friends from Florida, Pennsylvania, Georgia, South Carolina, Texas, Indiana, Tennessee, Alabama, and some I'm sure I'm leaving out (but not intentionally).  Our Federation is blessed to be led by Pres. John Patterson, Chief Instructor Taylor Hayden, and the rest of the Board of Directors.  Three years after Sensei's passing and we can honestly say that we are strong and growing.  I hope to see all of you there.  Almost every year at least a couple of people come up to me and tell me how much they appreciate this website (sometimes they even compliment me on this column).  I always thank them and direct them to our webmaster, Frank Austin and the Button twins who run the school in Huntsville, Al.  They have done a magnificent job of putting this together.  I'm just the figurehead.

        Anyway, hope to see all of you in Nashville 3/19.  Take care until next time.
 

                         Tom Stevenson, Roku Dan
                          Regional Director, U.S.E.W.K

        Well folks, it's great to be back.  A lot has happened in the last few months.  First, I want to thank Bob and Ilke Lander, and all their students, for the hospitality they showed Chris and Dave Button in early October; and my wife and me the next week.  Bob and Ilke have a great school located in the scenic mountains of north Georgia.  The twins and I got to go over to teach classes and meet the people the 1st 2 weeks of this month.  Great job by everyone concerned.  I will be seeing John Patterson, the Pres. of our system, this week and will give him a glowing report of our visits.

        Recently, our Fed. hosted Mr. Osaka the leader of the Fed. headquartered in Utah.  Although I didn't get to attend; the Buttons made the classes and came away very impressed.  I have it on good authority that Sensei Osaka left equally impressed with our Fed.  Plans are being drawn up to put together a team from both Feds. to represent the U.S.A. in next year's World Wado Tournament in London.  What an exciting thing to contemplate.

        Otherwise, the Federation is growing and all seems to be well.  I am missing some of my students who have just left to go to college (Roll Tide).  Just letting you guys know that we miss you; but we also are proud of you.  By the way,  Will Hickman, break a leg.  Will, a 1st kyu, has just graduated from college with a degree in theatre and has gone to work with an acting troup out of Richmond, Va.  Will is a great young man and we wish him the best of luck.

        Erica Moyers, Shodan, a 17 year old high school student here in Limestone Co. has just returned from Greece and the Paralympic Games with her bronze medal in volleyball.  Needless to say, we are proud and thrilled for her.  What an achievement for a young lady who lost her leg less than 3 years ago.

        Well, time to go.  I've got to get ready for my high school history students.  Take care.
 

                         Tom Stevenson, Roku Dan
                          Regional Director, U.S.E.W.K

Tuesday, June 29, 2004

        Well, here it is the end of the month of June and I guess some of you have been wondering where I've been.  You're right; there hasn't been a column posted since February; but, it's not because we haven't tried.  Sometimes computer systems break down and that's what has happened here.

        A few months ago my computer came down with a bad virus.  It took my son several days to fix everything and in the process we lost a lot of our stored information; including our address book.  I am in the process of trying to rebuild it.  While I'm at it, I'd like to say something about those folks who have nothing better to do with their time but to sit around devising ways of destroying other people's computers, people whom they don't know and will, in all probability, never meet.  I feel very sorry for you.  I have no idea what it must be like to be an obviously talented person and have such a nothing of an existence.  You are to be punished if caught; and pitied whether you are caught or not.

        We had a few other things come up; including my inability to send email to our website.  I still don't understand that one.  As a backup this time, I am sending copies of this column to 2 other people who can send to the website so that they can forward it if this one doesn't go through.  I don't understand it; I'm just reporting how it is.

        On the karate scene everything seems to be going well.  I had to postpone a trip to Blairsville, Ga. to work with Bob and Ilke Landers' school because of a health problem that I had; but I hope to reschedule for late July.  Several of us are planning on leaving EARLY on July 8 for a few days in Texas with John and Valerie Honeycutt and the students of North Texas Wado-Ryu.  Can't wait.  What a great group of people.  If I couldn't be from Bama, I wouldn't mind being a Texan.  They're good folks.  Looking forward to seeing y'all soon.  (John, tell Caroline to have the blackberry cobbler fresh and hot.)

        Until next time, take care.
                         Tom Stevenson, Roku Dan
                          Regional Director, U.S.E.W.K

        Well, the holidays are behind us; and I've survived another January.  I have always hated that month.  It's too cold; it gets dark too early; and the outside world seems to be done in black and white.  I also dislike February; but, at least, it's shorter than the other months.

        This year I divided the 2 months up by planning a getaway for some of the guys at a river cabin at Joe Wheeler State Park.  We had a fire in the fireplace thanks to the tender care of our "firemaster", Andy McCormick.  We brought in snacks and sandwich food for the noon meals.  Ate out for breakfast and supper.  The guys brought their guitars and we enjoyed a relaxing weekend away from "it all".

        January brought seminars taught by Mr. Kazutaka Otsuka, son of the present Grandmaster of Wado-Ryu and grandson of the style's founder, Hironori Otsuka.  My schedule prevented me from attending; but we were well represented by Dave and Chris Button, 2 of our Southern Region Board members, and the operators of our school in Huntsville, Al.  They brought back much knowledge and have been sharing with us regularly since the seminars.  I want to publicly thank both of them and especially Dave, who made all 3 seminars.  The Federation is better off having these 2 men as members.

        Mark your calendars for March 20th.  That's the day of this years Federation tournament and awards ceremony.  It will be at Stratford High School in Nashville again this year.  It is always a great day for the U.S. Eastern Wado-Ryu Karate Federation.  It's quite an experience to look out and see hundreds of white gis lined up for the opening of the ceremonies.  Our school from Texas is coming here to Athens for class on Thurs., Mar.18.  Then we'll all ride up Sat. morning for the tournament.  I can't wait to see John and Valerie Honeycutt and all the Texans.  A couple of times a year just doesn't seem to be enough to see good friends.  I hope to see all of the people I've met in the system over the years in Nashville at the tournament.

        See you next month.

                             Tom Stevenson, Roku Dan
                             Regional Director, U.S.E.W.K

        Here it is November 23 and the holidays are upon us.  Is it just me, or does time seem to be flying by.  I am in my 28th year of teaching; and I can't believe the school year is almost half over already.  I have been asked frequently in the last couple of years if I am planning my retirement.  No!  I love teaching; and plan on doing it for a number of years to come, God willing.  Even after I retire, I'll probably sub a few days a week just to keep in touch with the kids (and stay out of my wife's hair).  I hope to have several karate schools to watch over by that time so I can travel a couple of weeks a month and teach at those schools and give the instructors there a night off.

        As for my karate school, "The Tradition", everything is going very well.  I have between 55 and 60 students; and all are great people to work with.  I must tell you about 3 of my students that I am extremely proud of.  I hope they don't mind my mentioning their names; but Vikki Jones, Judy Roberts, and Dale Rybick completed quite an accomplishment.  These 3 women started at about the same time and in October all passed their Black Belt exam.  About a year and a half ago one of them got sick and had to be out for a fairly extended time.  The other 2 said that they were going to wait for her to return and all take the exam together.  It was a slow go as she gained back her strength and form; but the "3 old brown belt broads", as they referred to themselves, stuck it out.  They practiced extra every week for several months; took our full test, and passed.  They are now our 3 new Black Belt Ladies.  I want to thank Bill Ireland and Blaine Sherman for all the extra time they put in getting the ladies ready.  Welcome to the Yudanshi ranks Vikki, Judy, and Dale.  You have set a great example in courage and perseverance for all the students coming up.

        With Thanksgiving coming up, I must say how thankful I am for all that I have been blessed with.  I have a wonderful family that I love more than I can say.  The people that I call my friends have enriched my life just by being in it.  Thank you so much for your friendship.  I am also thankful that, after many years of searching, I have found a church.  My faith is very important to me; and it's so nice to feel totally at home with the people of Chestnut Grove United Methodist Church.

        Next comes Christmas, and my yearly regression into childhood.  I can't wait.  I've already completed most of my Christmas shopping; so I can relax and enjoy the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of Christmas.  It is absolutely magical.  I can't understand how some people can be Scrooges.  Sure, it's been crassly commercialized; but you don't have to let your Christmas be.  When they play Christmas carols "make a joyful noise".  As those who know me can attest to, I have never let the lack of a great voice keep me from singing.  Allow yourself to be swept away with a little of the wonder and awe of a child.  If you think Santa Claus doesn't exist, you haven't figured out what this is all about.  Relax and enjoy.

        Until next time, take care of yourself.

                                 Tom Stevenson, 6th Dan
                                 Chairman, Alabama Wado-Ryu

        Well, here it is Sunday, March 23.  It has been a beautiful spring day here in north Alabama.  I guess this means that I've about made it through another winter; although I think we have 1 more cold snap ahead of us.  Not much, just enough to kill all the blossoms.  I'm going on past experience; and this is what usually happens when we have this much nice weather too early in March.  Oh well, I'll just take what comes and enjoy the great weather we've had recently.

Yesterday was a very special day for all of us in the U.S. Eastern Wado system.  It was the day of the First Annual Cecil T. Patterson Memorial Tournament in Nashville.  We've had an annual tournament in March for many years; but, since the passing of Sensei Patterson, it is now named for him.  It was a rousing success.  The competition was strong and the stands were just about full.  I want to congratulate all who participated.  I saw excellent competition and wonderful sportsmanship.  By the way, I consider the latter to be the more important of the two.

I want to especially congratulate the competitors from our schools down here.  Great job Erica, Jesse, Morgan, Candace, and Harsha (I hope I haven't forgotten anyone.)  They competed from my school; and all brought home at least 1 trophy.  Congratulations also to Kim and Jason from the Texas school (again I hope I haven't forgotten anyone).  I'll see you folks in Texas in a couple of months.

I also want to congratulate Mr. John Patterson, Mr. James Zimmerman, Mrs. Jean Ellen Zimmerman, Mr. Taylor Hayden, and Mr. Mike Vanatta for organizing and carrying out such a nice event.  It's so good to know that Sensei's legacy will be carried on down through the years.  Also, thanks to Mr. Dale Kirby and his students along with Mr. Jimmy Edwards for a superb demonstration to kick off the event.

Finally, I want to send congratulations to Mr. Bill Taylor on his promotion to 7th Dan.  I have mentioned Bill and his dojo in Murfreesboro, Tn. here before; but it's worth mentioning again what a superb martial artist he is.  There aren't many martial arts systems with the leadership in our top rank that we have.  This was made abundantly clear yesterday from the applause throughout the gym as our 7th dans were introduced.

I wish to end with humble thanks for the honor accorded me yesterday.  During the awards presentations before the start of the tournament, I was greatly surprised and highly honored to be promoted to 6th Dan.  Now I have even more to try to live up to; and try I shall.  Take care and see you soon.

                                 Tom Stevenson, 6th Dan
                                 Chairman, Alabama Wado-Ryu

P.S.  Today marks the 5th anniversary of the passing away of my father.  Daddy, I still love you and miss you terribly.

        Well, here it is the middle of February and I'm getting very eager in my anticipation of spring.  Oh well, at least another month to month and a half before it gets here for good.  I'll just have to hold on until then.  Most people who know me know that I despise cold weather.  I'll just about do anything to keep from getting cold.  I do have some hot news; so let's get to it.

        First,  many thanks to Bob Lander and Ilke Noens of Paradise Cabins in Blairsville, Ga. for a great weekend.  If you don't know, Bob is a new member of the Fed. and is starting a school in Blairsville.  January 31st several of the men from here in Al. went over for a weekend.  We had a chance to get to know Bob and Ilke better and get to work out a little with Bob.  It was a great weekend.  I loved the flea market (naturally), the food, and the card games; but I don't think I'll ever develop into a Monty Python fan.  Nice try guys!  I'm certain that Bob will do a great job with his school.  While I'm at it, let me give the cabins a plug.  Folks, they're great!  Hot tubs, jacuzzis, satellite tv, and all in the mountains of north Ga.  Seriously, if you are looking for a vacation spot, or a weekend getaway, or just an overnight stay when you're in that area contact them at paradise-cabins.com.  Great cabins and great hosts.  Thanks again.

        I'm sitting here tonight nursing a pulled hamstring muscle that I got at a seminar today.  Kathy Kruisenga, 6th Dan, and her Karate for Christ school in Columbia, Tn. sponsored a seminar by Sensei John Patterson, President of the Fed., and assisted by Shane Patterson (his younger brother).  I believe this was John's first seminar since taking over after his father's death.  It was a rousing success.  John promises to teach these seminars regularly and if you have the opportunity you should make a real effort to attend.  All of us came away with much to take to class the next couple of weeks.  Of course, I'll also be taking this hamstring pull along with me for a while.  Ah well, such is life.  Thanks for the invitation to the seminar Kathy and "Great job" John.

        Lastly, March 22nd is just around the corner and I can't wait.  That is the date of our annual tournament in Nashville, Tn.  This year it has been renamed the 1st Annual Cecil T. Patterson Memorial Tournament.  I have always looked forward to this day each year.  I'll get to see my friends from Texas, Georgia, Florida, Illinois, and all over the eastern U.S.  This is the biggest day of the year for the Fed. and I hope each of you mark your calendar and meet us at Stratford High.  Look on our links page to log on with the Fed. and you can get all the info.

        Until next time, I'm going to hobble off to bed.  Take care.

                                 Tom Stevenson, 5th Dan
                                 Chairman, Alabama Wado-Ryu

        Well, here it is Christmas afternoon.  Before we know it, it will be 2003.  I hope everyone has had a great Christmas.  I don't think mine could have been any better.  My wife, our son, and I were together this morning and opened our presents together.  Having them with me at this time makes everything about this season complete.  I will enjoy the presents I got; but being with them makes me complete.

        There are big doings in the Federation.  Our new President, John Patterson, is making some changes and I can't help but think that we will be better off for them.  We may have to lose a few people at first; but we will be a stronger group in the long run.  I am excited about the direction that we are taking.

        One of the new changes is the establishment of a committee to standardize katas and techniques; and to upgrade testing.  The 2 members on the committee at present are Joe Rippy, 6th Dan, and Gene Foster, 6th Dan.  Knowing both of these gentlemen as I do, I am excited about what they will bring to the Fed. in their new capacity.  Both are excellent karateka and have the well being of the system at heart.  Good luck in this new undertaking Joe and Gene.

        I have only thought of 1 resolution I'm going to make on New Years, so far.  That is for my school to become too big for the space we have to work in.  In case you don't know, I don't really advertise.  My school has been built, for the most part, by word of mouth.  Over the years it has grown to about 55 students; all of whom contribute to making it the grand place it is to be a part of.  I'll probably make some of the usual resolutions at the last minute; and they'll last about as long as they usually do.

        Let me end by wishing all of my students, all of Bill Hardyman's students in Ardmore, Al., all of Chris and David Button's students in Huntsville, Al.,  all of John and Valerie Honeycutt's students in Texas, and Bob Lander and Ilke Noens and their future students in Blairsville, Ga. a wonderful Christmas and a very Happy and prosperous New Year.  I plan on seeing all of y'all during '03.  May God Bless you all at this special time.

                                 Tom Stevenson, 5th Dan
                                 Chairman, Alabama Wado-Ryu

        Well, it's the last of September.  I celebrated another birthday this month.  That makes 54 of them; although I'm becoming more and more convinced that they come 2 times a year as you get older.  Oh well, such is life. When I look at the people that I have in my life I sure wouldn't trade them in to get to live my life over.  I feel that I'm truly blessed.

        I want to mention that our Webmaster, Frank Austin, has suffered the loss of his mother during this month.  I know that he is going through a tough time right now; and he has our support and best wishes.  Frank is a valued member of our Alabama group in particular and the USEWK in general.  In all honesty, without Frank I doubt if this site would even exist; and if it did I'm sure it would only be a shadow of what we have.

        I also want to mention Mr. Cecil Patterson's annual summer seminar held a few weeks ago.  As usual, I had a ball, left wore out, and was not surprised at all to find that I don't know it all yet.  To all of the approximately 75 Black Belts that were there I want to say thanks for helping me have a great day.  I also want to, especially, thank Mr. Sam Ingram who was my partner for the day.  It had been a number of years since Sam and I had the opportunity to work out together and I hope he enjoyed it as much as I did.  I'm looking forward to another opportunity to spend some quality time climbing up off of the dojo floor with you, Sam.  I have also noticed that now that I'm over 50 it takes a day for the soreness to go away.  I'm sure the seminar will be held again next year and if you have the chance you ought to show up.  By the way, while I'm on the subject I want to personally thank Mr. Bill Taylor for making his beautiful dojo in Murfreesboro, Tn. available to us again this year.  It's a great place to have the seminar.  The guys from Alabama get a double treat by getting to drive up highway 231 early on Sat. morning; and it's always a beautiful drive.  We're usually a little to done in to pay much attention on the way back.

        Finally, the Sept. issue of the USEWK Wado Update is now on the system website.  There is an article there by me.  It concerns an episode in my life from a number of years ago.  I haven't told the story much since then; but since it's out I would like for all of you to read it.  It says what I truly believe about the value of karate training.  You can link up with it from this site.  Until later, take care.

                                 Tom Stevenson, 5th Dan
                                 Chairman, Alabama Wado-Ryu

        Wow!  Where has this summer gone?  Seems like we finished the last school year yesterday and tomorrow we start the new one.  It has been a very busy summer; but a very profitable one, also.  The first week after school was out, Chris and Dave Button, of the Huntsville school, and I set out for Texas.  We taught 4 classes and tested and promoted North Texas Wado-Ryu school head John Honeycutt to Sandan.  Congratulations to him and to Kim Day for getting her purple belt.  We had a wonderful trip; if you don't count the car trouble on the way out there.  John and his wife Valerie, Nidan, are wonderful hosts; and the students and families are wonderful people to work with.  It was a memorable occasion for us.

        Just a few weeks later it was time for the annual men's summer outing.  This year we went to Land Between the Lakes in Tn./Ky.  To say that we had a great time would be an understatement.  We had a fantastic trip.  Four days of camping, eating, sightseeing, eating, antiqueing, eating, cardplaying, and did I mention, eating?  This was our 8th consecutive year; and we've never had a bad trip.  We've already started planning next year's trip to the Louisiana Gulf coast.  I have mentioned this before; but it's worth mentioning again; I highly recommend this practice to any of the schools who may be looking in on our site.  The guys that go thoroughly enjoy each others' company.  This is something we anticipate for months in advance.

        With fall coming on, I think most schools will see an increase in enrollment.  We do every year after all the summer sports and vacations are over.  Now is the time to dedicate yourself to your training.  With that in mind, I want to urge all who can to attend Mr. Cecil Patterson's annual summer seminar coming up next month at Bill Taylor's school in Murphreesboro, Tn.  As you may know, Mr. Patterson, Hachi Dan, is the President and founder of the U.S. Eastern Wado system; and, I'm proud to say, my instructor.  The seminar is tentatively scheduled for Aug. 24/25.  Check the link to the U.S. Eastern system's website and I'm sure the date will be posted as soon as it is finalized.  Hope to see all of you there.

        As a final note, I'm going to address myself to you readers and our webmaster, Shodan Frank Austin, at the same time.  For the last couple of months Frank has been spending his time attending to his mother who has been gravely ill.  This is where Frank should be at this time.  If it seems as if the site isn't being updated as often as usual; that's because Frank's priorities are in order and he has our wholehearted support.  Frank, our thoughts and prayers are with both you and your mother at this time.  Chris and Dave are keeping me informed.  God Bless both of you.

                                 Tom Stevenson, 5th Dan
                                 Chairman, Alabama Wado-Ryu

        Well, here it is June already.  I have just finished my 26th year in the classroom and find myself loving teaching as much as ever.  Don't get me wrong; I'm certainly glad for the break.  I must admit to being pretty well spent by May this year.  Must be age, but, considering the alternative, I'll take it.

        I must mention the trip to Texas last week that Senseis Chris and David Button and I undertook to work with the school out there.  I can't begin to express what a great time we had; and what wonderful people we had the opportunity to work with.  I refuse to make a big deal about the problems we encountered getting there and getting back home.  Let me just say that it was an adventure.  I'll focus on the time spent there.  John and Valerie Honeycutt were our hosts and besides being dear friends they are just plainly great people.  We were able to teach 4 classes while there and I want to congratulate all who were there for an excellent job.  Special congratulations to Kim Day for receiving her Green belt.

        While there we had the opportunity to spend time with them outside of the dojo; and, again, thanks for the hospitality.  I believe that surrounding myself with good people makes me a better person; and I was honored by the company of the Texans.  By the way, I am VERY proud to announce that John Honeycutt received his 3rd Degree while there.  Congratulations John on a job very well done.  I'll see you and Jason next week on our annual men's outing.

        This gives me the chance to mention this again.  If you don't know, the men in our school take a trip together every summer.  This will be our 8th consecutive year; and I can't wait.  To make it short, we have a ball.  We do something different each year and this year we will be spending several days camping in the Land Between the Lakes region of southern Kentucky.  I highly recommend this activity.  It can be done fairly cheaply and that's how we try to do it.  Camping, hiking, sightseeing, and just laying around vegging out (which seems to be what we do best).

        Hope everyone has a great summer.  Until next time.

                                 Tom Stevenson, 5th Dan
                                 Chairman, Alabama Wado-Ryu

        Well, the 15th Annual U. S. Eastern Wado-Ryu Karate Do Federation Championships has come and gone; and what a day it was!  First, I must say that I wasn't at my best yesterday.  Although some people might disagree.  I woke up Friday morning with bad sinus problems and by Sat. morning I didn't have much voice left.  I guess some might have thought it was an improvement.  I have no voice today; and my wife seems to be enjoyong the quiet immensely.  Oh well!

        There is so much to mention about yesterday that I almost don't know where to begin.  I suspect I should start with the sad news.  Shihan Patterson reported that a student in Bill Taylor's dojo in Murfreesboro, Tn. had passed away while working out.  I am ashamed to admit that I can't seem to remember the gentleman's name.  I do want to extend our thoughts, sympathies, and prayers to the family first; and to Bill and all of the students there.  This must be a very tough time for you and you have our very best wishes.

        I want to congratulate Jeffrey "Buck" Ford for a fantastic job as Master of Ceremonies.  Buck is a great guy and karateka.  Thomas Mitchell always brings chills when he sings the National Anthem; but yesterday was something special.  Thomas is recovering from an auto accident and looking great.  If anything, he is singing better than ever.  Keith Fall always does a great job reciting the Wado pledge before the tournament; and yesterday was no exception.  The system is fortunate to have these 3 men as members; and I am fortunate to be able to call them friends.

        Before we started, Buck read a letter written by Sensei David Deaton concerning sportsmanship, respect, and the real importance of the competition.  It was beautifully written and read and I found myself echoing the sentiments of those around me at the end.  All we could do was say "Amen".

        I was honored to receive an award from Mr. Patterson; and as I walked to the front to get it I had to walk by the 6th and 7th degree leaders of our system that were arrayed in front of the dais.  Any pride I might have felt was quickly doused by my feeling of inadequacy at being in the presence of so much knowledge and talent.  I was especially proud that John and Valerie Honeycutt also won an award.  I am their instructor, although they live in Texas.  They are doing wonderful things with their school there.  I thoroughly enjoyed getting to spend Friday evening with them and all the great people who came all the way from Texas for the tournament.  I'll see y'all in June.  ( Congratulations Kim and any others who got trophies.  You're all winners to me.)

        It was great to see the competition, and after the divisions were finished, to see the competitors and judges standing around and talking in an atmosphere of cameraderie.  I didn't get to stay for all the competition; but what I saw I liked.  All in all it was a great day for the system.  My congratulations to James and Jean Ellen Zimmerman, John and Shaine Patterson, all of the workers, and to my instructor Mr. Cecil T. Patterson for an outstanding job.  I was proud to be there and a part of it.

        Until next month, take care.

                                 Tom Stevenson, 5th Dan
                                 Chairman, Alabama Wado-Ryu

        Well, it's Monday afternoon Feb. 25th and a beautiful late winter day here in north Alabama.  I have a couple of topics that I want to mention, so I'll get right to it.  First, I want to tell Ms. Kathy Kruisenga and her students in Columbia, Tn. how much I enjoyed being with them yesterday afternoon.  They are a great group of karateka and people.  Sensei Andy McCormick and I drove up to attend a seminar given by my instructor and the President of the U.S. Eastern Wado-Ryu Federation, Mr. Cecil Patterson.   As usual, I enjoyed myself and came away with my normal sense of inadequacy.  I enjoyed the warmup conducted by Mr. John Patterson, 7th Dan and Mr. Patterson's oldest son.  Also present helping conduct the seminar was Sensei Patterson's youngest son, Shane.  The 3 of them had a very successful afternoon; and the approximately 40 karateka who attended got the benefit.  I would also like to tell all of the lower ranks that were there to stick with it.  The journey you have undertaken is well worth what you have to put into it.  Again, thanks Mr. Patterson and Kathy.  It's always a pleasure to be around y'all.

        Next, on the list is the date March 23, 2002.  For any of you who don't know what that date means; that is the date for the annual USEWKF innersystem tournament and the biggest day of the year for the members.  This year it will be held at Stratford High School in Nasville, Tn.  I would like to extend an invitation to all of you readers to be there on that day.  While it is a closed tournament (open to only USEWKF members); anyone can come and spectate for a nominal fee.  This year Senseis David Deaton and Dale Kirby are going to put on demonstrations prior to the start of the tournament.  That in itself will be worth the price of admission.  They are 2 wonderful and dedicated martial artists.

        I am looking forward to that day.  Taking a bunch of my students to the tournament, meeting friends that I don't get to see enough (that especially includes my great friends from Texas), and a lot of great competition.  It is always a highlight of my year.  I'm looking forward to making more new friends this year.

        Until next month, take care.

                                 Tom Stevenson, 5th Dan
                                 Chairman, Alabama Wado-Ryu

        Well, here it is 2002.  A new year always brings moments of reflection upon the past and hopes for the future; and this year will be no different.  I want to wish all of you a very successful year in all facets of your life; and may your Wado journey be full of learning, accomplishment, and revelation.

        I want to mention a special meeting that I was privileged to attend a couple of weeks ago.  It was a called meeting of the Board of Directors and others (of which I was one) held by Mr. Patterson in Nashville.  We had a wonderful lunch together; and then got down to business.  The first big item on the agenda was to vote on reinstating Mr. Joe Rippy, 6th Dan of Knoxville, Tn., back into the system.  After Mr. Patterson and then Joe addressed the group; and after a question and answer period, the vote was taken.  I am proud to announce that, by a unanimous vote, Mr. Joseph Rippy is once again an integral part of the U.S. Eastern Wado Ryu Federation.  Welcome home, Joe, we have missed you.  I hope that many of you who read this and are members of the Fed. will get the opportunity to meet and work with Joe in the near future.  He is a great person and a wonderful karateka.  In all honesty, Joe was one of the people in the Fed. that I really admired during my early years.  I am especially grateful for the time that we got to spend together right after I got my Black Belt.  He will be a great asset to our system.

        The rest of the meeting was spent making small but needed changes to the Fed's. bylaws.  It was my opportunity to watch the senior people in the system go through the process of upgrading the system.  I was very impressed by what I saw and heard.  All ideas and opinions were given thought and credence.  In short, the system is growing fairly rapidly; new schools are being opened, and we are having growing pains.  We are considering some new paperwork options to give the larger schools a bit of a break in that respect.  There wasn't one problem there that was caused by a system in decline.  I came away from the meeting feeling very good about the USEWF.

        I want to thank Mr. John Patterson, Mr. David Deaton, Mr. Taylor Hayden, Mr. Wayne Tyler and all of the other Board members for their leadership.  I am proud ( and more than a little bit humbled) to be a part of this orgabnization.  See all of you next month.

                                 Tom Stevenson, 5th Dan
                                 Chairman, Alabama Wado-Ryu

      As I lay in my bed at the Ramada Inn overlooking the Mississippi River in historic Vicksburg, Ms. Sunday night, I watched them announce the retirement of Mark McGuire.  I had suspected that it would happen; but it still was a sad moment.  Those of us who are fans of sports for all that is good about them want to hold on to our heroes as long as we can.  However, knowing the character of the man I sensed it would be his last season during the last month of this past season.  He could have signed the contract extention; scooped up the $30 million and just hung on for a couple more seasons.  He would likely have moved up a few spots on the record books and the fans would have cheered just to see that mighty swing; but that's not Mark McGuire.  It is rare in this day and age for a sports star to set himself up as a role model and then live up to it; but he did.  I don't think I'll ever forget watching him cry as he donated a million dollars of his first Cardinals contract to set up and fund a home for abused children.  Then there was the absolute class with which he broke Roger Maris' season homerun record.  He brought the Maris family to the stadium and after the homerun went to the stands to share the moment with them.  He even gestured skyward as though to acknowledge Roger looking down at him (and, I believe, smiling).  His son was there as the batboy so he could witness his father's moment.  I admit freely to tears as he scooped up his son for a very special hug.  I guess that makes me a sentimental fool; but I don't care.  Any father worth the title knows how special a moment like that is between father and son.  And now it's over.  What a great run.  A power display of awesome proportions.  His homeruns per at bat ratio is the best in history; and no one else even comes close.  Mark joins my list of Nolan Ryan, Richard Petty, Larry Bird, Jack Nicklaus, and Walter Peyton as men who were among the very best who ever lived at what they did and who did it with class, always.  Thanks for the memories, Big Mac.  I know that you'll be a success in whatever you choose to do now.
 

                                 Tom Stevenson, 5th Dan
                                 Chairman, Alabama Wado-Ryu

        I tried to answer their questions as best I could; but I'm my answers all weren't adequate to the situation.  I did stress to them, as I'm stressing it to you, that our world had just changed forever.  No longer do the Atlantic and Pacific keep us safe and isolated from the rest of the world.  In simple terms, we were sucker punched.  As karateka, I'm sure your instructors have given you rules to follow about keeping aware of the presence and actions of people who might wish to do you harm.  Good advice for people and nations to follow.  Regretfully, the U.S. has a long history of getting sucker punched.  We also have a long history of being underestimated by our enemies.  We regularly hang our dirty laundry out in public.  We protest and march in the streets.  Our leaders call each other names and roll in the mud with each other like hogs on a hot summer day.  It would be next to impossible to explain our way of doing things to someone who just arrived here.  No, you would have to live here for years and watch the process work to learn one of the true strengths of America.  True, we fuss and fight; but we do it like a family.  When an outsider gets involved we band together.  That's what they're going to have to find out.

        I have every faith in President Bush and his team.  I couldn't care less that he's not the world's best public speaker; he's a leader.  That's what always makes the difference.  In situations like this you find a leader; and his firm steadfastness is what is needed.  Because this not going to be a short, clean war.  It will be very time consuming and at times very bloody.  America will suffer more losses; both military and civilian.  We must remember that they declared war on us and take the steps necessary to rid ourselves and the world of organized terrorism.  One thing is certain; they are fanatics and fanatics can't be dealt with like they are rational human beings.  That's true of any fanatic, religious or otherwise.  We can wish it was otherwise; but we must live in and deal with reality.

        I do wish to mention the dramatic heroism that we were privileged to witness during those first few days after the attack.  Someone once said about soldiers in a great battle "uncommon valor was a common virtue" and it certainly was in New York and Washington after the attack.  The people on the doomed airplane who attacked the hijackers and let the plane crash before it could reach its target showed a spirit that I sit in awe of.  My thoughts and my prayers are with the victims and their families.  They are also with those Americans who must seek out and destroy these organized terror rings.  I have a feeling the terrorists are going to reach a point that the ones left are going to be thinking that they wish they had just left the U.S. alone.  Sorry, you have sown the wind; now you will reap the whirlwind.

        Until next month, take care of yourselves.
 

                                 Tom Stevenson, 5th Dan
                                 Chairman, Alabama Wado-Ryu

        I'd like to mention a few things about the day.   First, I have been nursing a bad left hip that has been causing me to limp all this week.   Fortunately, it was better yesterday and only caused me a little discomfort.   In fact, it may have been a blessing in disguise since it caused me to relax and not try to overpower every technique.   While very far from perfection, it was one of my better days. (They seem to be coming fewer and farther between lately.)   Next, I want to personally congratulate Mr. Wayne Tyler on being promoted to his 7th Dan.   Wayne is one of those senior people in the system that I really look up to as both a karateka and a person.   I don't wish to embarass him, but I tend to personalize things; and when I watch him perform I know what the phrase "poetry in motion" means.   A level I'll never know; but can always strive for.   Also, I want to mention Jeffrey (Buck) Ford for the greatest line I've ever heard in a karate class. Any of you who have never met Buck have missed a treat.   He is simply one of the finest gentlemen I've met in 23 years in the system.   He's also the system's webmaster and does a great job.  "Keep flowing" Buck.  (Inside joke.)

        Next, I want to mention my partner for the day, Mr. Quentin Fussell.  I always try to make a new acquaintance and friend at these things; and I consider Quentin to be both.   His willingness to work with me and teach and learn together will be a good memory for many years.   We both were nursing bad hips (His worse than mine.) and we seemed to be perfect partners.  Good luck and I hope to have the opportunity to work with you again, Quentin.  Next, I want to thank Chris and David Button who run the Huntsville school and their student Frank Austin, Shodan and our webmaster, for helping me represent Alabama at the seminar.

        Finally, I'm going to repeat what I said last year.   There should have been at least twice as many people at the seminar.   The date was released at least a month and a half beforehand and I refuse to believe that hundreds (and we have that many) of Black Belts had unavoidable business elsewhere.   You are the ones missing out.

        See you next month.
 

                                 Tom Stevenson, 5th Dan
                                 Chairman, Alabama Wado-Ryu

        To John Patterson; hope you are feeling better.   I've had it; so I can both sympathize and empathize.

        I also sat in on some of Mr. Dwayne Craft's drama classes.  Dwayne is the drama teacher at a local high school.  I was entranced not just by what they were doing, but by the enthusiasm they were doing it with.  I want to thank both men for what I saw and learned during that time.  But most of all, I want to thank the kids.  Y'all are great.  On the last Sat. night each teacher did a short demonstration with the kids of what they had been working on; then for a grand finale, an hour and a half of singing and dancing by the students.  In 2 weeks they had put together vignettes from "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown" and "Oklahoma".  It was fantastic.  What voices!  What dancing! And all in 2 weeks.  I want to thank Ars Nova owner Ginger Beazley for giving me a great opportunity.  And to Liv, Thomas, Allison, Alicia, John, my buddy Corinne, and all the others I want to say that the sky is the limit for you guys.  Thanks to you all for a great time.

        Then my brother called and I had another opportunity arise.  My brother, Randy, is the plant manager for the Lockheed-Martin plant in Troy, Al.  Seems there has been a rash of assaults on women in that area recently and he wanted to know if I could plan a self-defense class for them.  Obviously, I said yes.  Vicki (my wife) and I left early Thursday morning and drove down to Troy.  I taught the seminar that afternoon and it was really well received.  The ladies did great and I think they got something out of it.  I know that their attention and effort really inspired me.  Now we have to come up with at least 1 more trip down for another class.  All that and we got to visit family for a couple of days.  I hope I don't sound too prejudiced, but I'm lucky to have some really good people in my family and we don't get to spend enough time together.  By the way, I enjoyed teaching the class and will work to make other classes there even better; but I could do without the reason I got called.  I hope they find this low life and, as my father used to say, throw him under the jail and lose the key.  Maybe that type of behavior is something for a future column.

        By the way,  Sensei Patterson, along with several of the senior instructors in the system, will be conducting the annual summer seminars at Mr. Bill Taylor's beautiful dojo in Murphreesboro, Tn. the 25th (Black Belts) and 26th (Kyu Ranks) of this month.  Info and registration can be found on the system's website.  Hope to see all of you there.  It's always a great day.

        See you next month.

                                 Tom Stevenson, 5th Dan
                                 Chairman, Alabama Wado-Ryu

        It is always a pleasure and an honor to have Mr. Roe Carter at our schools; and he and his son, Bill, made the trip down for the classes.  Besides being one of my early instructors, Roe is a fine gentleman and an excellent martial artist.  He, along with his wife, Jenny, son, Bill, and daughter, Maria make up a family that any group could be proud of and I'm glad they're in our federation.

        Speaking of Bill Carter, I must congratulate him and Erica Moyers (yes, the young lady who lost her foot last Oct.).  Both were promoted to Shodan at the seminar by Sensei Patterson.  I'm proud of Bill's accomplishment; but words can't describe how I feel about what all Erica has had to overcome.  She still has a way to go in her adjusting to her situation; but I feel honored to know this terrific young lady.  Again, congratulations to both of you.

        Next,  I just returned from a trip to the southwest.  It had been a dream of mine for years to tour New Mexico, Arizona, etc.  Well, I have a friend who had the same dream so we went. That's right; as they say we just up and did it.  We wanted to see the country so we couldn't fly.  We don't have any local train service and we didn't want to drive out there.  That's right; we took the bus.  Let me say right now, buses are not designed for people over 6 foot tall.  I'm 6'4" and my friend is 6'9".  Yep! I was miserable and he was worse.  But what a trip.

        In Albuquerque we rented a car and headed for Santa Fe.  I'm going to start using the same adjectives to describe things; but I don't know any other words that will do.  Santa Fe is fantastic.  Then across the continental divide (it sleeted on us) and up to Mesa Verde in southern Colorado.  The ancient cliff dwellings and the view of the snow-covered Rockies from 8,000 feet up was truly awesome.  Down through the 4 Corners region and through Monument Valley in northern Arizona.  This is where many of the great westerns were filmed and the landscapes are unbelievable.  Next stop was the Grand Canyon where we watched the sunset one evening and the sunrise the next morning. (By the way, it was 30 degrees that morning.  Good thing we thought to take our coats.)  As I've told people, nothing that I've ever seen or done prepared me for the Grand Canyon.  It can't be described to anyone who hasn't seen it.  I now know why it is considered one of the wonders of the world.  Then down to Flagstaff and across the painted desert (it really is painted in pastels) back to Albuquerque and on home.

        An exhausting trip; and one I'll be eternally grateful for taking.  The reason I'm including this is to tell you that the U.S. has been richly blessed by God.  Every once in a while, break out of your shell and go see some of this magnificent creation we've been given.  See if you can sit on the edge of the Grand Canyon and question the existence of God.

        See you next month.
 

                                 Tom Stevenson, 5th Dan
                                 Chairman, Alabama Wado-Ryu

        A few months ago Donna contacted me and said that she was ready to get back into training but that there weren't any Wado schools in her area.  I told her she should start one; but she wasn't comfortable with teaching so I told her to check what was available and get back with me.  Awhile later she called and we discussed what was there for her to choose from.  Her choices amounted to a commercial school ( I prefer to leave the style unnamed) and a school of the traditional style known as Shito-Ryu.  I told her immediately that with those choices she had no choice; introduce herself to the instructor of the traditional school and get to work.  She did; and appears to be progressing well in her new school.

        When Donna found out that we were coming, she arranged for the twins and me to attend class at her new school.  This turned out to be the icing on the cake for the trip.  There I met Sensei Harvey Johnson and some of his students.  (My apologies, Harvey, if you don't use that specific title.  However, my readers understand what that title means; so it fits.)  We had a wonderful visit in their dojo.  The twins say I talked too much again.  I don't mind them saying I talked too much; but the "again" really hurts.  Anyway, I feel as if I not only got to reacquaint myself with some old friends; but got to make some new ones.  I always feel honored to walk on someone else's dojo floor.  That is even more true when it is a school where the traditions of the martial arts are alive and well and being exihibited by everyone there from the instructor on down to the lowest ranking student.  That is what I saw that night.  They welcomed strangers and I hope they feel as if they have made new friends, also.  Everyone had a chance to learn from the others.  Harvey, Tex, and all the rest, you are always welcome at any of our schools up here.  I will be back in the not too distant future for another visit; and I promise not to talk so much.  (Hope that satisfies Chris and David.)

        As you can see, a great trip.  I know that Donna has a good new karate home; and I've made new friends.  Again to all the Metzger's "Thank you so much for your hospitality."

        See you next month.
 

                                 Tom Stevenson, 5th Dan
                                 Chairman, Alabama Wado-Ryu

P.S.  Sensei Patterson and John Patterson were at the Athens Recreation Center at my school on May 19th for seminars.  Kyu rank class was from 10 til 11:30 and Black Belt class was from 12:30 until. Fee was $25 and all Wado-Ryu practitioners were invited.  If you haven't had the pleasure of one of Sensei's classes you have missed a treat.

        As I watched the marching in ceremony, I looked around me at some of the senior people that were there and in places of responsibility. It would be my guess, but I can't think of another organization of 1 style that can bring together, IN HARMONY, so many top notch and widely known martial artists.  I know that I have mentioned these names before; but my goodness when you can look around and see David Deaton, Taylor Hayden, Dale Kirby, and Wayne Tyler, not to mention many others all gathered at the same place at the same time as members of the same organization, you really have a sense of pride.  (And, in my case, joy that almost 23 years ago I ran into Mr. Don Hendrix and chose Wado as the Way for me.)  There were so many others that I got a chance to meet yesterday that I consider friends and people who have helped me on the way.  It was great to see Roe Carter, Eddie Parker, Gene Foster, Mr. and Mrs. Z, Mike Vanatta, David Rhodes, Keith Fall, Shane Patterson, Gary Steele, Bill Taylor, Eric Silver, and others who I'm sure will come to me after this is posted.  It was a pleasure to see you all.

        I mentioned Mr. Don Hendrix's name, as he was my first instructor, and I have some disturbing news to pass along.  I recently heard that Don has cancer and I don't know any more than that.  I hesitate to mention it since I don't know exactly what the situation is; but maybe some of you know Don and would like to send your wishes for a full and speedy recovery as I send the best wishes and prayers of all of us here in Alabama.

        Also, let me wish a speedy recovery from a serious sinus infection to Sensei Patterson.  You know it had to be a bad one for him to miss the tournament yesterday.  All the best wishes for a speedy recovery from me and all the folks in Bama, Sensei.

        Finally, to John and Valerie Honeycutt and all the folks from Texas who travelled for many hours to visit us and attend the tournament; thanks so much.  It was great to see all of you.  Some were already friends; and the rest are new friends.  Hope to see all of you sometime this summer.  By the way, they make gis that will fit you Nicki; just ask Valerie. (See, I can pick on you from long distance.)

        Until next month, keep learning and keep dropping in on me.

                                 Tom Stevenson, 5th Dan
                                 Chairman, Alabama Wado-Ryu

        I know that you are all anxious to hear how Erica is doing since the loss of her foot so I won't wait any longer.  She is back in class dressed out in her gi and taking part.  She is finding out about her limitations right now; but my money is on her to once more surprise us all.  By the way, she is also dressing out for her junior high basketball games and playing in a Sat. church league.  I'm exhausted just thinking about it.  Oh yes, Wed. the 17th was her 14th birthday.  Her mother brought cake, snacks, and drinks Tues. night and we ended class a little early to give her a surprise party.  Happy Birthday, Erica.  And all the very best for the future.

        A new year always seems to give us a chance at a new start.  We have a lot of plans for this year.  They ought to keep us busy.  I'm really looking forward to it.  Hope this year can be looked back on as a great one for all of you, too.  See you next month.

                                Tom Stevenson, 5th Dan
                                Chairman, Alabama Wado Ryu

P.S.  I almost forgot.  Charles Roberts, Sandan, one of our instructors just had surgery this past week.  He has several weeks to go before he can start working out again.  We're looking forward to having our "Great Buddha" back with us.  Get well soon, Buddy.

            First,  Let me speak for Assistant Instructor Charles Roberts and myself when I say that the trip to Texas was just plain great.  We flew to Dallas Fri. morning the 27th and were met by John Honeycutt who, along with his wife Valerie, runs the North Texas Wado Ryu school in Midlothian.  We had the opportunity to work with John and Val Fri. night.  Saturday morning brought us the "munchkin" class and Sat. afternoon the adults.  Let me congratulate all who showed up; you did great.  I was honored to meet many of the parents and family members of the students.  I always say that one of the things I love about being in this system is all the great people that I get to meet; and Texas has a lion's share of wonderful folks.  Charles and I truly were made welcome with "old fashioned" southern hospitality.

        To all the munchkins; I appreciate deeply your attendance, your attention, and your effort.  You are a credit to your families and your school.  To Richard, Lonnie, Jason, Michael, and Chance (I don't count you in the munchkin category) let me say that I appreciate your attendance and your hard work.  I deeply believe that we need many more strong, positive male role models in the lives of our young people. Y'all impressed me as strong, eager to learn guys and you will be a valuable asset in the school.

        To John and Valerie, thanks for opening your home to us.  You remain dear friends as always; and you are doing great work with your school.  To the parents and families that I met, I was honored by your presence and all of the kind words you had for us.  Finally, to my buddy Maddie, it was great seeing you again (even though I was devastated to find that I can't compete with Barbie in your eyes. (That's an inside joke.)  There should be a few pictures up on the site within a week.

            Now comes the hard part.  While Charles and I were in Texas, an event was taking place in Alabama that has had a profound effect on my school and all of its members.  One of our brown belts was involved in an accident.  The result was that Erica had to have her left foot amputated.  Erica is first and foremost a super kid. Very athletic, she plays all of her school sports and was scheduled to take her Black Belt test in March.  At 13, she already catches your eye as she works with new students.  In a phrase, we were all devastated. BUT we had failed to consider the true strength of this young lady.  Her courage and determination have been awe-inspiring for all who have witnessed it.  I am certain that I speak for all of the members of my school when I say that you have our admiration and you are certainly our inspiration.  I've seen her family deal with this blow and come together as only people of strong faith and deep love for each other can do.  I am humbled by your example.

        What words to say have been very difficult to find because I don't want to unnecessarily invade the family's privacy; and because I just didn't know how to say what I wanted to.  I hope that somewhere in my rambling you have caught what I'm trying to say.  I'll end by paraphrasing 2 famous quotes.  First from the Bible; "and the children shall lead them".  Erica is certainly leading all of us.  Second, from William Shakespeare, not only a literary genius but someone who understood what it means to be human as well as anyone ever has.  In a scene from one of his plays a major character has just been told of the devastating loss of his entire family. His friends gather around him and tell him to take it like a man.  With tears in his eyes, he looks at them and replies, " I shall take it like a man; but I shall also feel it like a man."

        Erica has withstood this better than many men or women could have; but there is more difficulty ahead.  Don't be afraid to let it go when you need to. This from a 52 year old man who still has the ability to cry when I need to.  You WILL get your Black Belt from us one day soon and you WILL teach for me one day.

                                 Tom Stevenson, 5th Dan
                                 Chairman, Alabama Wado-Ryu</