Dojo members’ gifts to Elizabeth Gregory Home

December 11, 2011

The Elizabeth Gregory Home Holiday Party is Saturday, December 17, 2011.  The support for our holiday drive has been very good and we are still accepting donations.  December 14, 2011 is the day that your donation needs to be at the dojo if you want to ensure delivery by their holiday party.  (Donations can be sent to EGH all through the year). 

One of their residents wishlists is still unfilled! If you have a used iPod or small TV that you’re not using, it could make one of their homeless residents very happy. Here’s her whole wish list:

Needs: Steamer (for cooking)
Gift card to buy running shoes (DONE)
Gift card to buy trousers and clothes
$100 to buy ESL books for next quarter (DONE)
Wants / Dreams: Small TV
Used Ipod
Macy’s gift card
JC Penney Gift card
Desk for studying.

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Karate Photos by Mr. Duke Tirschel on the way

December 6, 2011

 

Karate Photos by Mr. Duke Tirschel are on the way!  Those who are expecting their professional photos that were taken the second week of November should be receiving their custom photo packages any day!  This photo was received by USA Karate Academy this week.  We are grateful to have the best Professional Martial Arts Photographer capturing our images and memoirs that will last a lifetime.

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Secret Sale at USA Karate Academy

December 5, 2011

Friday, December 9, 2011 is the USA Karate Academy “Secret Sale” whereby the dojo will be open from 6pm – 10pm for holiday shopping.  Special prices and packages will be offered.  BBC members who order items on or before the Secret Sale will receive 25% off regular priced items regular members will receive 15% off regular prices under the same parameters.

Orders must be placed on or before the special shopping date and all purchases must be paid in full.  (Restrictions may apply). 

Why purchase items from the dojo when you can purchase similar equipment online and for lower prices?  Most items used in the dojo are specifically recommended to meet the guidelines for safety as set forth in the AAU Karate handbook. 

Since safety is of our utmost concern for students that train in our dojo, it is essential to wear the approved equipment when required.  Your personal safety is far more valuable than the cost of a $3.00 mouthguard, an $8.00 groin protector, or a $76.00 helmet with faceshield.  Hand pads are priced from $25.00 to $40.00 depending on the brand.   

The dojo does not make much of a profit on the items sold yet, the small margin helps the dojo meet its’ general operating costs. 

With great discounts being offered for your holiday shopping, now is a great time to invest in the safety of yourself or your treasured karate kid.

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If an eligible testing candidate misses testing, now what?

December 4, 2011

Most of the candidates scheduled for testing on December 3, 2011 passed their tests, some missed,  and there are a  few students who were present that did not fulfill all the requirements to pass.   A makeup test may be available for those who missed but arrangements must be made and cleared with Shihan Joni Sharrah.   Advanced students require more time for assessment so students currently High Blue and above that missed their evalution may need to wait for the next full testing cycle to present their skills to the Board of Black Belts.  Those few students who were not able to demonstrate all the required technical skills to pass and graduate to their next belt rank are being encouraged to arrive to the dojo at least 15 minutes prior to their regular class start time,  are invited to practice at Open Gym, and strongly urged to practice at home at least 15 minutes on the off days so that when the necessary skills are demonstrated, the student will be able to complete their test and earn their next belt rank.  Each case is different so it is essential for those with questions and concerns to address Shihan Joni Sharrah directly for help in understanding the options available to you or your child.

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Posted by jsharrah

Giving Tree for Elizabeth Gregory Home

December 4, 2011

A giving tree is being sponsored by our dojo for Elizabeth Gregory Home, a non-profit nonfaith-based organization in the University District of Seattle. The organization serves single homeless women in King and surrounding counties by providing transitional housing and a day center…. gift cards and small things, but precious to the woman who receives it are being accepted NOW. 

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Posted by jsharrah

Congratulations Graduates You Rock!

December 3, 2011

Traditional karate testing is intended to help a student learn something they did not know about themself, the lesson is priceless when the lesson is lived and learned. It is true; with a willing mind anything is possible!  Inspiring demonstrations were observed yet, more importantly, confidence was born in the candidates who submitted themselves to the rigor of intense assessements and grading that demanded correct form, a positive attitude,and an intense fighting spirit, all under the microscope of a public demonstration among peers, family and community members, some known, some not.  We at USA Karate Academy value the art of traditional karate-do and acknowledge and appreciate the families that treasure the same values.

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Posted by jsharrah

Belt rank testing December 3, 2011

November 30, 2011

Congratulations to those candidates who are eligible to attend the belt rank testing, Saturday, December 3, 2011.  We mindfully select students for testing based on the following,

  • Date of last promotion
  • Attendance records
  • Minimum technical skills acquired
  • Effort and attitude
  • Participation in class and events hosted by the dojo
  • Ability to meet or exceed individual potential

Once eligibility is met, invitations to candidates are sent by US Mail, then other items are reviewed - The Home Report and the School Report.

Candidates attend testing time based on their rank and age.  Please review your scheduled time and attend accordingly.

Students who have not been identified as candidates for this testing time period are being assessed for stripes on their belt.  If a student normally attends the 11 am class and are not testing this Saturday we recommend that you attend the 10 am class this week.

Testing and rank promotion days are appropriate for parents, friends, and family members to observe their karate-ka in action.  It is also one of the few times during the year that picture taking and videography are allowed in the dojo.

We are looking forward to celebrating the success of those who have progressed and learning from the test itself for further development in the future.

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Posted by jsharrah

Gear up for the Holidays

November 21, 2011

In the Fall Newsletter2011 you will find reminders about what is happening at the dojo.  In observance of Thanksgiving the dojo will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, but classes are in full session the rest of the week.

Many students are being identified as candidates for progress evaluation and belt rank promotions, check the date, mark your calendar and save the date. 

A karate holiday shopping night is slated for those who would like to reward their special karate ka with a gift that will enhance their training, so that is a date worth noting too. 

A special Parents’ night out is planned to occur at the dojo, this is a great opportunity for our parents to have some time away in the evening as the Sensei and Sempai conduct special activities at the dojo while parents enjoy an evening out.

All this and more is found in the latest newsletter.

We are grateful for our karate family and want to acknowledge how much we appreciate your support of our program. 

Happy Thanksgiving to you and all your loved ones.

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Buddy Week November 7-12

November 2, 2011

Bring a buddy to the dojo and earn buddy bucks just for bringing a friend to try karate. Your buddy and you will practice warm ups, stretching and strengthening exercises, basic martial arts skills with a focus on self defense.  Your buddy must not have been a buddy or member before.  When your buddy joins USA Karate Academy, earn more buddy bucks as a thank you from us for referring your buddy.  Share your enthusiasm of karate training. 

Participants should wear something loose and comfortable, be prepared to sign a participation form before trying class, (18 and under buddies need a parent’s signature). Contact USA Karate Academy with questions or to notify us of your buddy’s intention to try karate classes.  Our classes are appropriate for all ages with special focus on family values.  See you in class!

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Posted by jsharrah

Karate Pictures by Master Duke Tirschel, November 14 and 15

October 26, 2011
Reserve your spot today to get your photo taken by the world famous karate photographer Master Duke Tirschel and have your picture added to our School Composite Photo Board.  There is no fee to you or your child to be on our all dojo Composite Photo Board, and the images you may like to purchase are fabulous and affordable!
It’s first come first serve for time slots so come into USA Karate Academy and sign-up as soon as possible!
Call the USA Karate Academy if you have any questions @ 206-440-5533

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Posted by jsharrah

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