AKS Quarterly Newsletter

"The Punchline"
Editorial – September 2009

The summer has come and gone and we’ve started a new school year. For me the summer was very fruitful, as well as enjoyable. I was able to accept on Mr. Lieb’s behalf his induction to the Hall of Fame, and witness another of our members receive another prestigious award; more on that later. I’ve witnessed new growth and unity within our organization. We’ve added new schools/clubs in Lavonia, just north of Detroit, one at the YMCA in Grand Haven, Michigan and another in Martinsville, Indiana. Sensei Jim Hope, (4th Dan AKS) is heading the Lavonia School. Dave Thomas (8th Dan & Assistant Chief Instructor) is running the club in Grand Haven. And Roger Hurd (5th Dan) is the head instructor for at the Pro Martial Arts College in Martinsville.

We had a great summer camp. By all accounts those in attendance felt this was the best yet. The black belt meeting was productive as several new suggestions were accepted by those present and are in the process of implementation. Among them were club certification certificates, black belt ID’s, and instructor certification. We also had four well received training sessions on Saturday afternoon. Andy Eckhart (3rd Dan AKS) taught some excellent ground tactics, Assistant Chief Instructor Thomas taught empty self-defense, Assistant Chief Instructor Reinecke (8th Dan AKS) taught Bo tactics and defense, and I covered familiarization and functionality of handguns and how to defend against them. Shawn Pike hosted our annual BBQ in his backyard on Saturday evening. By my observations no one left hungry. The chef did a superb job and everyone enjoyed the great food and atmosphere. We all owe Shawn and his family a big thank you for opening their home to such a motley gaggle and putting up with us.

Sunday morning we met again at the park by Lake Michigan for brunch and more training as we have for the past three years. This is a part of the summer camp I have come to look forward too. The scenery and atmosphere are wonderful. It was also at this time the AKS newest black belt Randi Zattlin tested and was promoted to 1st Dan. Everyone participating in the board was well pleased with her performance and knowledge. Her instructor, Mr. Thomas, has every reason to be proud of his newest black belt.

This year we reinstituted the black belt of the year award with Jude Gore (5th Dan AKS) from West Virginia being the awardee. After making the announcement of this year’s recipient I must admit I can’t remember a time since getting to know Jude where he was so lacking with some kind of a response. It was obvious he was not expecting the award. I spoke with John Folsom, 7th Dan AKS and our regional director for that area, who said Jude has been an invaluable asset in assisting him and in his support to the AKS. We also instituted a student of the year award. This year’s recipient was Ron Kolbe (3rd Kyu AKS), one of Dave Thomas’ students. Mr. Thomas told me Ron is always early to class and one of the last to leave, as well as ready to assist wherever needed. Ron exemplifies the best standards and qualities of an AKS student. The goal in this latter award program will be to have each area choose a recipient. Those winners will be announced and awarded during the respective annual training sessions in their area. In August I made a return trip to the west coast. This was my second visit to California to attend the Master’s Hall of Fame Induction Ceremonies. This year’s event was held at the Long Beach Convention Center in conjunction with the Long Beach Internationals. This tournament is one of the oldest in America. It was started by Ed Parker in the early 60s and has been a yearly event since.

In addition to my attendance, Dave Thomas, Fred Reinecke, and Steve Thurkettle (6th Dan AKS) were also present. I was there to accept the formal induction of our Founder and Sensei, Ernie Lieb into the Hall of Fame. The others were able to join me, which I felt was important since we all had a long history with Mr. Lieb. This award would have meant a great deal to him. Since he wasn’t here to accept it I was honored to do this on his behalf, and that of the AKS. Having these other senior members and good friends present made the occasion even sweeter. In addition to this recognition of our Founder and his beloved organization in front of a banquet hall of more than 450, Robert Essenberg (3rd Dan AKS) was awarded Instructor of the Year by the Academy of Masters. What can I say? It was a great weekend.

The guest list was full of well known martial artists, some of who were also actors. We were honored to have actor Bo Svenson sitting at our table. Next to us on one side was martial artist and actor Jeff Speakman, in a another direction was martial arts legend and actor Benny “The Jet” Urquidez, and in yet another was Eric Lee. One of the guest speakers was 11 times world champion and actor Don “The Dagon” Wilson. These names may not be familiar to some of you, but a quick Google check will provide you some enlightenment about these noteworthy individuals. Also at our table was Tony Zimkowski. I was honored to meet Tony last year at our Ohio training seminar. He is one of the Academy’s Ambassadors and is responsible for helping to nominate people for recognition. It was Tony’s good efforts that resulted in Mr. Lieb’s induction and Robert’s award. The AKS has a true friend in Mr. Zimkowski. For me it is a personal honor to have gotten to know him, as well as having had opportunities to learn from him at the last two Ohio training seminars.

In closing I must tell you 2009 has been a really great year for the AKS. The new handbook has impressed all who’ve seen the draft. It will be ready for distribution in the near future. The AKS by-laws have been updated to reflect all the best our organization stands for. We’ve grown both in numbers and clubs. We’ve had our founder inducted into the Hall of Fame, and another member honored by the Academy of Masters as Instructor of the year. Our training sessions at our regional seminars and the summer camp have gotten better. A key reason for this improvement was the innovative approach Rand (Skip) Palmer took during his first go at hosting the training seminar in 2008. In all the senior leadership has demonstrated they are capable of handling that responsibilities and functioning as a well oiled team. They are united in their drive to improve our beloved AKS. And the year still not over.

Have a great Fall.

Mike Sullenger 9th Dan
Chief Instructor

The Right to Self-Defense;
Does it differ between trained and untrained,
civilian and law enforcement?

As a veteran of both the martial arts and the law enforcement communities for a number of decades, the topic of self-defense takes on different meanings depending on the audience. When I teach use of force tactics to my fellow cops the criteria applied is more restrictive than what the average citizen is held too. Police officers are allowed to use the amount of force necessary to apprehend someone or stop them in the commission of a crime. Over the years, the application of force and the tools provided cops have changed. What has also changed is the scrutiny applied to officers after they use such force. In some parts of the country many officers are reluctant to use force except as a last resort because of the microscopic (or more appropriately proctological) exam they’re forced to endure. This is especially true since the majority of mainstream media outlets seize on every opportunity to portray police in a bad light. This is one of the down sides of a society having become ever more dominated by those who distain authority and those who represent it. (A topic for a different discussion.)

What about civilians? What are their rights to self-defense? What justifications must they have, and how hard are they looked at once they’ve used force? This raises the question of what state they’re from, as well as any training they may have received in the realm of self-defense, whether empty hand or with a weapon.

In every state of our country citizens have the right to defend themselves, their homes and property, and their loved ones. This is a concept as old as man. The level and degree of this right, however, differs. Some countries have taken away a citizen’s right to possess firearms, even in their homes. Australia is just one example of where the citizen is at the mercy of the criminal. Americans have a constitutionally protected right to own firearms. Our founding Fathers knew well the importance of an armed citizenry and placed that right as the 2nd of our ten amendments, in our Bill of Rights. Whether you choose to learn how to use a firearm for self-defense, hunting or as a sport, you have that right and freedom to do so.

For the purposes of this discussion I’ll be covering my home state of Texas, since that’s what I’m most familiar with. You should make every effort to educate yourself and your students about your respective state laws in this area.

Texas has always had laws allowing self-defense; part of our rustic frontier history. Up until 1974 there was no requirement to retreat if possible when confronted by assailants. In 1974 the Texas Legislature passed a law requiring a person to retreat if possible. It made no difference if you were somewhere you had a right to be, save your home. In 2007 the “Castle Doctrine” was passed allowing a person to stand their ground. The key concept behind the castle doctrine was based on old English law that inferred a man’s home was his castle. There has always been the understanding a person has the right to defend himself and loved ones in his own home. What set’s the castle doctrine apart from some other states, with a few exceptions, in addition to being able to stand your ground, is the loss of civil litigation on the part of the injured or their relatives as the result of your defense. In other words, if you seriously injure or kill your attacker you cannot be sued in a court of law. Some twenty states have the same or similar types of self-defense laws. The objective is to give more credence and protection to the victims and less to the criminals.

What’s important to understand in this arena is the legal concept of when a “reasonable” and/or “prudent” individual feels they’re in peril of serious bodily injury or death by the person or persons confronting them. If you use a firearm the odds of killing the assailant are pretty good, depending on your skill and the caliber handgun you’ve chosen. But what if you’ve taken self-defense classes; or better yet you’re a truly qualified black belt? Are you able to defend yourself without killing the individual? Are you able to cease your response once you know your attacker is no longer a threat? How long have you studied? What is your degree of expertise? These are important questions and considerations, since the legal system will be using them as they analyze the circumstances surrounding what precipitated your need to use your skills. The police and prosecuting attorney’s will also attempt to determine if “Mens Rea” applies, or whether there was any criminal intent in your mind either before or during this event. This is a Latin term meaning you knew at some point what you were doing, or did, was against the law, yet you did it anyway. Another legal term for this is culpability, which is just another way of saying the same thing.

The legal system in Texas and its related environment tend to be more lenient towards civilians defending their home, person, loved ones and property. An example of this was the case of Mr. Joe Horn, a 61 year old resident of Pasadena, Texas, which lies just east of Houston off of I-10. You may recall this case since it received a great deal of media scrutiny. The media was trying to use this case to show what happens in our society when people are allowed to own guns, and states pass laws like the “Castle Doctrine.”

Mr. Horn had called 911 advising them people were robbing his neighbor’s place. He told the operator, “The laws have changed in this country since September the 1st and you know it.” He was referring to the newly passed “Castle Doctrine” that went into effect in 2007. The operator told him, “You’re going to get yourself shot.” Horn responded, “you wanta make a bet? I’ll kill them. They’re getting away!” In the end when the smoke cleared (no pun intended) and the police had arrived, the two burglars lay dead in the yard. The Harris county Grand Jury declined to indict Mr. Horn. As I mentioned, the media used this incident to further its anti-gun agenda. Sadly some don’t think others should be able to defend themselves and try to impose their values.

The Texas Penal Code, Chapter 9, describes deadly force as justified to prevent arson, robbery, theft, or criminal mischief at night, or to prevent a suspect from fleeing if the property owner “reasonably believes the land or property cannot be protected or recovered by any other means; or the use of force other than deadly force to protect or recover the land or property would expose the actor or another to a substantial risk of death or serious bodily injury.”

So this brings us to the question of what to consider when planning for, or training for self-defense situations. You should study your state laws and cases where self-defense has been used. There are regular articles in gun magazines, and the NRA’s America’s 1st Freedom that give accounts of average citizens who used a gun to defend themselves that were deemed justifiable. You won’t read about these situations in many newspapers, and you sure won’t hear the mainstream media talk about them, but they occur in this country all the time.

As martial artists we train to use our skills in our own defense, or the defense of loved ones. We practice against a variety of situations and weapons. As a senior black belt I can tell you honestly in my nearly 50 years of training not one of my instructors ever taught me how to block a bullet. If I’m placed in a situation where I feel deadly force is needed to defend myself or a loved one and I’m carrying my pistol the attacker is dead. If I don’t have the weapon with me I’ll respond quickly and effectively using the training and skills I’ve developed over these many years. If the person survives great; if not so be it.

I teach my students and fellow officers to use good communication skills when talking with people. The best gift we all have is the art of BS. Entering a situation with a chip on your shoulder or trying to act like you’re the meanest bull on the block will only result in you having to resort to self-defense in the majority of cases. There are always those ready to test your metal. However, when all else fails you must make a decision. I tell my trainees to decide whether they’d rather be carried by six, or judged by twelve. Once you’ve settled that issue in your mind – train. Train realistically, train hard and train often. If you hurt from bumps and bruises or a bloody nose in the classroom or dojo, you’re less likely to do so or worse in the street. Remember, in addition to your training and preparation learn about the laws of your respective state. Develop a clear understanding of what constitutes self-defense there and what is expected of you based on the training you’ve acquired. In other words, learn where the line is between you defending yourself and becoming the assailant. To do less is to place yourself in the possible situation where you will cross that line between justifiable and culpability.

In closing let me clarify some of my comments about the media and others in our society, those with elitist mentalities. This country was founded on the concept of freedom. Each of us as Americans must choose how we use those freedoms. This country is also one of laws. Sadly there are those who ignore the law in order to profit in whatever manner possible. There are also those who have been elected to office who betray the trust of those who put them there. No matter where your feelings lie regarding the protection of your loved ones, your property, or yourself, never allow anyone to dictate to you based on their beliefs and values. Follow your heart. Those against guns and the right of self-defense use the argument that we have police to protect us. As a cop for more than 38 years I can tell you unequivocally that our responses are 99.9% reactive. In other words, we respond when the call for help comes in. By the time we get there much can happen. It is your responsibility to be prepared. How you decide to do that is your choice, but prepare you must. In my government classes I ask my students, “If you called 911 and no one responded, how capable would you be of being your own 911?” I’ll leave you with that question to ponder.

Michael A. Sullenger, 9th Dan
AKS Chief Instructor

In Appreciation

In early September, we will open a new club with two American Karate System training classes at the Tri-Cities YMCA in Grand Haven Michigan. The “Y” has elected to hold separate children and adult classes, which will make it easier on the instructors. Both of the initial classes will be "beginning" karate and later sessions will have advanced training as well. It is exciting to begin to work with a new group of students and establish another AKS club. I will keep you informed of our progress with our newest club.

While starting a new club is exciting, I will have to step away from the American Karate Club we started 19 years ago at Ross Park Elementary School. This club Mr. Lieb considered the continuation of the dojo he founded on Evanston Ave in 1965. He would visit us frequently to make sure we were training our students and Black Belts to the standards he had set forth. He was always pleased with our performance and the student’s attitude toward their training.

Now after 19 years, I place the responsibility for continuing that legacy with the Black Belts that have been with me, some more than 20 years. Our students are fortunate to have instructors with a great range of experience and abilities; and I am confident that my Black Belts will carry on the training and standards we have established over the years.

I want each of my Black Belts to know how very much I appreciate their willingness to step up and keep our foundation going as I start a new program. I could not start a new club without their support and commitment to maintaining our present program. Though I will remain the head instructor of the American Karate Club, they are responsible for the students training and well-being. These talented and generous ladies and gentlemen make this new venture possible.

I also appreciate the students who come to class and work so hard to learn and grow in the American Karate System. Without you, the AKS would whither and fade. It is your enthusiasm and desire to learn that keeps us coming back week after week, month after month and yes, even year after year. And as remote as it seems now, someday the future of the AKS will rest with you.

To my Black Belts and my students thank you for your support and commitment to continue what we have all started. Remember I am not gone just absent for a bit. Also, I am only a phone call or e-mail away. It is also my plan to have some joint training sessions between the two clubs so we can continue to learn from each other.

You have my gratitude.

Dave Thomas
8th Dan
Assistant Chief Instructor

PROMOTIONS!!

Congratulations, Randi, and to all students who have been promoted this past quarter.  Best wishes in your continued training.

Balance
by Gilbert Pena, 2nd Dan, AKS

In the martial arts, we understand the importance of balance. Without good balance, we can’t punch, kick, block, or takedown with power and effectiveness. I’ve known this for years, as I’m sure, many of you have as well. Recently, though, I had to learn a new lesson about balance.

The balance that I’m referring to is not the one that keeps you from falling over…or is it?...it’s the balance of life. You know, we go through days…weeks…months…day after day, going about the business of the day. Before you realize it, you’ve gotten so far out of balance, that it’s hard to tell which way is up. It’s like getting knocked silly by a roundhouse to the head!

That’s exactly what happened to me this year. For about a year, I led a pretty large IT project for the company that I work for. It was a project that had the attention of our executive leadership because of the potential cost savings to the company, and it was new technology that was being implemented. For me, it was the first time that I’d led a project of this magnitude, and, quite frankly, I went into it somewhat unprepared.

In any event, there I was, managing a multi-million dollar project, with 20+ employees and contractors, and working with them to meet a very aggressive timeline. By the first of 2009, life as I had known it had changed! I was working 55-70 hour weeks, which made it virtually impossible to get a workout of any kind in, and the stress of the project was wearing on me. After many trying weeks, and much testing and modification, we finally began rolling out this new technology solution, and by mid-July, life was getting back to normal. Or so I thought.

You see, right around this time, my manager asked me to complete my Individual Development Plan (IDP) for the coming year. As I began to think about where my career is headed, and what I need to work on, and what new skills I need to pick up, I began to realize that I was “living to work”. This caused me to think of everything that I should be doing; spending more time with God in prayer and study, exercising, improving on and learning new AKS katas, planning my career, quality time with my son and my wife. It was overwhelming!

Then, in mid-August, a co-worker of mine died of a severe asthma attack at the age of 30. Yes…that’s right…30! News of his death hit me really hard because I knew him and he was a really great person; but more than that, it made me realize just how short life really is. This event also hammered home something that God had shown me the day before.

With all the stress I was under, I’d gone out for a walk during a break to think and talk to God. I was talking to Him about the IDP that I needed to complete, and complaining that I couldn’t seem to get my thoughts clear enough to effectively get through it. As I was talking, I heard Him whisper that I didn’t need an IDP, I needed an LDP. I questioned, “an LDP”? “Yes…a Life Development Plan”, He said. Immediately, I realized He was exactly right…then of course, He is God and would be exactly right…but it was like clarity came and I understood that my LIFE was way out of balance. I needed to make a change!

How did I get to this point? Well, as I mentioned above, I was “living to work”, instead of, “working to live”; I was consumed with work, and the only other part of my life that I was giving time to, was my family life. Even then, it was not quality time…thank God for a loving and understanding wife and son! Most days, I’d come home so stressed, tired and mentally drained from the day, that all I wanted to do was sit in front of the TV and ‘veg out’. On more than one occasion, my wife would ask me a question that required some thought and I would snap at her that I couldn’t think and just wanted to watch TV.

So, after hearing of my co-worker’s passing, I again went out for a “prayer walk” and it was then that God compartmentalized my life into 4 categories:

• My Spiritual Life
• My Family Life
• My Personal Life
• My Work Life

He spoke them in that order, and directed me to begin to ‘plan’ for each part of my life. As I prayerfully proceeded, this is what I developed to assure that I’m continually working on having a balanced life.

This is a start! It’s a path to run on, but one that will change periodically as goals are met, and new ones are set. The key to successfully finding your balance and focus in life is writing things down and referring to them regularly to make sure you’re still on the right track. The above chart is one way of doing just that.

I can tell you that going through this exercise began the process of bringing balance and focus back into my life. Am I totally in balance? No, not at all. You see, a balanced life takes as much effort to develop as developing the physical balance that allows you to punch, kick, block and takedown with power and effectiveness.

So, if your life is feeling a bit out of balance, perhaps it’s time to take a step back and re-evaluate the different areas of your life.

A.K.S. Web Address(es)

You can now visit the A.K.S. Website using any of these addresses:

The shorter addresses basically act as pointers to our regular 'americankaratesystem.org' address.  The shorter address is much easier to key in and, much easier to remember.

We purchased the   " .com    .org   .net    and  .info "  addresses so that the A.K.S. would own all the major internet web address extensions for the domain name " aks-usa. "    This will prevent other organizations from purchasing them and thus causing confusion as to the identity of the website (very much like the difference between americankaratesystem.org    and    americankaratesystem.com )

Please feel free to use these new addresses the next time you visit our site.  And please let us know if you experience any difficulties with the new addresses.