Hey gang,

Sunday was a nice break from the routine, with a live martial arts
show at Philadephia's Freedom Theator. NAFMA TeamUSA members Sabato
Trent, John Lamontague, Shannon Boggan, My son Kent and myself shared
the stage in a very rare gathering of some noted artists in the
Philadelphia Martial arts scene. Including former US Wushu Team
member great, Louis Diaz, TienShan Pai kungfu artist Jamal El,
Okinawan Goju Shihans Khalid Newton, and Gene Holden, Sanucesryu
Jujitsu instructor Saifallah, Shotokan intructor John McClery to name
a few. The event was hosted by Mwanzo Umeme, Founder of the Vita
Saana African Martial Sciences system and my very first weapons
intructor. There were wonderful demonstrations of a variety or
martial arts styles ranging from Shotokan, Wadoryu and Gojuryu
Karate,TaeKwondo,TangSooDo,Aikido, Sanucesryu jujitsu, Wushu, Kungfu,
MuayThai boxing, Vita Saana martial Sciences. Including impressive
weaponry skills of Japanese/Okinawan styles, Chinese weaponry,
Breaking, and practical selfdefense skills using ordinary household
items such as Oven cleaner sprays, Frying pan skillets and scented
candle holders. This portion of the show made for some interesting
viewing and comic releif.

Cheers!

Mel