Final Update to SummerFest 2003!

[gmattson]

One week before my 20th SummerFest. I hope you will be able to join me in the training and celebration.

We are expecting great weather as usual. (In 20 years we've never been rained out) Of course, we do have an 80 X 30 foot tent and a huge gymnasium. . . Just in case!

I still get a few letters from new students who are wondering "What can I get out of SummerFest"? Well, besides being able to work out with some of the best Uechi-ryu teachers on the basics of Uechi-ryu, you will be able to participate in many of the seminars that are geared for beginners. Most of the non-Uechi-ryu seminars are "introductory" courses, designed to give the Uechi community an insight into the many other fighting arts available, that are compatible with our Uechi-ryu.

We also have a special area for the "Healing" arts. Everything from Tai massage, Chiropractory and Acupuncture to Reikei. You would be surprised to learn of all the aches and pains both received and cured at SummerFest!

One of the most moving ceremonies of the weekend is our annual "masters" black belt testing. On Saturday evening we will once again be inducting one person into the very exclusive Hachidan club (8th degree black belt) along with a group of 6th and 7th dan candidates. This year we are very proud to honor New York's David Finkelstien into the Hachidan club. David has been studying Uechi-ryu since the 1960s, while he was getting his law degree from Harvard.

Dr. Paul Giella will once again be hosting the Masters awards in the conference center following dinner.

The SummerFest has become the premier event of the year for Uechi-ryu. It is an opportunity for old friends to gather and work out together for three days. Evening are opportunities to watch demonstrations given by new presenters, relive the "good old days" and make new friends. The hardest part of the evening is saying good night!

Besides the many seminars, demonstrations and other activities, all the pioneers of Uechi-ryu are available to check out your kata and give valuable tips on how you can improve your techniques and form. Our Uechi-ryu champions, besides teaching seminars on sport karate and self defense methods, will be available throughout the weekend to answer questions and give advice on anything you may wish to ask.

Naturally, I will be very active all weekend. Besides teaching my 6:30AM "Sanchin by the Beach", I will be available at all times to critique your Uechi-ryu and help you make your training more productive, effective and enjoyable.

When you check in at the registration area, you will be given a complete schedule of seminars and activities. Be sure to take advantage of the hourly discussion sessions with the seniors, which will take place under the tent.

Don't forget to visit the Store and pick up your collectible SummerFest 2003 T-shirt. Susan is bringing down a huge selection of martial art clothing, DVDs and Videos. We are phasing out our VHS videos and will be offering our inventory at a huge discount.

OK! Now that you realize what a great time you will have at SummerFest 2003, the question is: "How can I register"?

The full program, with room and board, will be available until Wednesday. But you must call: 508-586-7678 and you must pay by MasterCard or Visa. Daytrips will be available with lunches until Wednesday for the regular price. Drop-in "daytrippers" are welcome, but you will pay $100 for the day with no lunch!

So please pick up the phone and call Susan at 508-586-7678 or you can register by FAX: 508-559-8913 (The application can be found from the home page: http://uechi-ryu.com )

After you register, please read the information on the "Fest" page pertaining to the schedule, things to bring, etc.

See you Friday morning "on the beach". Oh yes, the Maritime Academy is "this side" of the bridge, so you won't be caught in the Cape traffic if you drive.

Regards,

George E. Mattson

[Van Canna]

Hanchidan or Hachidan?

[gmattson]

That should be Hachidan.

[gmattson]

Important rules and information for SummerFest 2003

I wish to thank you for attending this, the most important Uechi-ryu event of the year. The Summer Camp has evolved into an annual gathering of martial arts friends. . . a time to share experiences, training tips and techniques. . . a time to focus on the pure enjoyment of "working out"!

There are no politics at the camp. Regardless of the style, association or origin of your martial art, you are welcome here. We are only interested in your willingness to work together in friendship and in the "Budo" spirit demonstrated by Grandmaster Kanei Uechi during his lifetime and especially during his visits to our Summer Camps.

The Maritime Academy has proven to be a wonderful host for our camp. In our three previous events at this location, they have allowed us a great deal of freedom, while providing the essential services needed for a successful weekend. In order to maintain this relationship, please note the following rules:

1. Emergency Telephone numbers: 508-726-0789 Remember. . . emergencies Only.
In-house Phones - Non emergency Dial 1025, 911 Campus Police or 9911 for the Bourne Police.

2. No furniture is to be moved or exchanged between rooms.

3. Keys must be returned by 1:00pm Sunday.

4. Bed linen must be left in room.

5. Alcoholic beverages are not allowed anywhere except during the Friday and Saturday night parties in the gym. . No drinking or partying in the dorms! Campus Security police will be patrolling dorms and campus throughout the weekend! Anyone caught violating these rules will be removed from the campus. Please keep your voices low at night. The noise carries throughout the dorm halls and rooms.

6. Minors are not allowed any alcoholic beverages! All adults are asked to help enforce this law.

To make the seminars more enjoyable:

7. New/er students: Work out your schedule with a senior. Participate in seminars that are geared for your rank. You may participate in "specialty" seminars in order to determine interest or to satisfy your curiosity. Be very careful when practicing. You are responsible for your actions!

8. We are fortunate to have many martial art dignitaries present with us this weekend. Please introduce yourself and ask questions. Seniors will be available "Under the Tent" for discussions and special lessons. Seniors will also be available throughout the weekend for special small-group sessions.

9. Don't lose your meal coupons. They are like cash and are needed for admission to the Dining Room. They cannot be replaced!

10. Name tags must be worn at all times while at the Maritime Facility. (best to pin on hat)No one will be allowed in any seminar or on the Maritime field without a nametag. They are your admission ticket to the Master's Ceremonies in the conference Center on Saturday evening. ($20 entrance fee for visitors.)

11. Cars must be parked along the canal on Academy Drive and in the Gym Parking Lot. You may park in the Building 4 lot during registration only! Remember, your car will be towed anywhere else.

12. Visit the Camp Store. Interesting T-shirts, Books and Videos available.

13. Have a wonderful time. And Don't forget to mark off July 30 - Aug 1, 2004!! GEM

[David Kahn]

Sensei:

Is the camp scheduled early next year (2004)? It will be July 30 - Aug 1 instead of the second weekend in August?

I know it's a long way off, but some need to plan that far in advance.

Thanks,

David

[gmattson]

July 30 - Aug 1st is correct.

We were just notified by the Maritime Academy that a conflicting academy program prevents our using the facility on the 2nd weekend.