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Recently, I had the opportunity to get out of the house and have some fun with a few friends. I don’t get out that much so I couldn’t resist the invitation for a good time and some good food. We all met up at a really cool place called Jersey’s Pizza and Grill. This was my first time there and it is a great place to chill, grab some really good food, and check out your favorite sporting event. Since we were all martial artist we went to check out the UFC and the place was packed with martial artists from all styles and walks of life. They have two 6′ x 10′ HD big screens and thirty two 42″ HD Flat screens. And the neither the food nor the decor dissappointed.

But, what was really special was that I got to meet some of my fellow students that I haven’t met, and was reunited with an old friend from “back in the day.” Here’s a few snapshots from our evening out that I hope you enjoy. If you’re ever in the area do yourself a favor and check out Jersey’s.


This is Bill and Sal. Seven years ago when I started training in HapKido they were both black belts and teachers at our old school. Way back then they endured my myriad of questions and would always take time after class to help me and any other students who needed help.

Well, over the years I was reunited with Bill but had lost touch with Sal. Bill kept in touch with Sal and told Sal that I was training again and he came out to see me. It was really cool seeing Sal after all of these years. He looks great and is now not only highly ranked in HapKido but is also a top Aikido instructor.

What a great evening!  Aikido check out Shinjitsudojo.org

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In the martial arts we all strive for a purpose.  Some of us may have multiple purposes, but in general most of us strive for physical and mental development through shugyo.  Some individuals might want to develop a certain skill level; others are more concerned with rank – especially the untrained newcomer.  In a recent situation that I’m sure many will recognize, an individual walked into our dojo after contacting me previously on numerous occasions.  Almost immediately on arriving, he asked me, “how long would it take me to get a black belt?”.  I chuckled and replied, “Oh… around 2-3 days for an average one and about 7-10 days for a really nice one from Japan”.  After he looked at me quizzically for a few moments, I explained the joke to him.  Fortunately he chuckled and the ice was broken. Read the rest of this entry »

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