I just wanted to share this humbling experience I just had. Carissa and her family just presented me with a "success collage" reflecting her journey to K4K junior black belt. Carissa did this all by herself and the inscription around the edges reads;-

"Thank you so much for guiding through my journey to black belt for these past four years. You have taught me to believe in myself and never give up. We have shared times of laughter, tears, success, hopes and dreams. Thank you for always listening to me and supporting me and encouraging me. You are the best Karate teacher I could ever wish for."

This is the true essence behind what we do and why Kenpo 4 Kids is truely a life skills program and not just a recreational martial sport.

Thank you Carissa for having such a teachable spirit. I'm proud to have as Kenpo 4 Kids Black Belt.

Sensei Perez

Picture will be in the photo gallery soon.

Sensei Perez

Congratulations to our 17 new K4K Yellow Belts. You all should all very proud of your achievement. This was one of the best Yellow belt gradings we've ever had. Thank you to all the mums and dads for your wonderful support. We can't do this without your willingness to be a part of what we think is something very special indeed

Forest Lake Team Members
Nicholas D
Aaron H.
Natalie H.
Matthew K.
Emily L.
Aidan L.
Oliver P.
Brayden P.
Braithen Q.
Hannah R.
Amy R.
Ashley S.
Taylor S.

Redland Bay Team Members
Tahlia S.
Blake G.
Mitch G,
Leyton G.

Your journey continues

Sensei Perez

Our future rests with our children, yet we continue to see more and more of these precious, young lives wasted due to dysfunctional family life, varied forms of abuse and criminal involvement. Today, it is a sad fact that our society seems to have trouble transmitting healthy values to young people. Many federal, state and city agencies, together with churches, have tried and are trying to help where they can. Some programs work; others don't.

Martial Artists for Peace (M.A.P) is foundation that has been created by KKA Queensland instructors Simon Rea and Tony Perez to reach out to at risk children with the Kenpo 4 Kids program.

M.A.P is a community peace programming strategy and aims to transform young people whose lives are spinning out of control into responsible, confident and respectful individuals.
The first child to be adopted into M.A.P is “Hope”. She is an 8 year old whose dysfunctional family situation made her an ideal candidate.

Well known Brisbane building company SUNSTATE HOMES has graciously sponsored “Hope” in the Kenpo 4 Kids program for 5 years. Sunstate Homes director Amir Taefi said,

“I’m proud to be associated with this wonderful initiative. We share a common belief where people live without fear, being allowed to love, live and experience life with all its weird and wonderful differences without fear of ridicule, discrimination, bullying, physical and mental abuse at the hands of others. My company builds homes for families and M.A.P with Kenpo 4 Kids builds homes for the spirit – it’s an ideal partnership.”

“Hopes” story coming soon.

Here's the new lyrics to the song Kung Fu Fighting which is the theme song to Kung Fu Panda. I think they have great meaning and the music video is cool too. You can check that out on You Tube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3aTU-IJ8c4&feature=related.

Enjoy,

Sensei Perez

Kung-Fu Fighting by Sam Concepcion -

Coz everybody is Kung Fu Fighting
Your mind becomes fast as lightning
Although the future is a little bit fright'ning
It's the book of your life that you're writing

You're a diamond in the rough
A brilliant ball play
You could be a work of art
If you just go all the way
Now what would it take to break
I believe that you can bend
Not only do you have to fight
But you have gotta win

Coz everybody is Kung Fu Fighting
Your mind becomes fast as lightning
Although the future is a little bit fright'ning
It's the book of your life that you're writing

Oooooouuhhh

You are a natural
Why is it so hard to see
Maybe it's just because
You keep on looking at me
The journey's a lonely one
So much more than we know
But sometimes you've got to go
Go on and be your own hero

Coz everybody is Kung Fu Fighting
Your mind becomes fast as lightning
Although the future is a little bit fright'ning
It's the book of your life that you're writing

Coz everybody is Kung Fu Fighting
Your mind becomes fast as lightning
Although the future is a little bit fright'ning
Sam Concepcion - Kung-Fu Fighting
lyrics from http://www.6lyrics.com
It's the book of your life that you're writing

You're a diamond in the rough
A brilliant ball play
You could be a work of art
If you just go all the way
Now what would it take to break
I believe that you can bend
Not only do you have to fight
But you have gotta win

Coz everybody is Kung Fu Fighting
Your mind becomes fast as lightning
Although the future is a little bit fright'ning
It's the book of your life that you're writing...

Just saw Kung Fu Panda and loved it. The setting of the story is that Po (not a big, fat Panda, but THE big fat, Panda), lives in an ancient Chinese village named The Valley of Peace. It is populated exclusively by talking animals. Po's heroes are the "Furious Five," a group of martial arts masters who embody the five animal forms traditionally taught in Kung Fu: monkey, mantis, crane, snake and tiger.

When word arrives that the village's deadly archenemy, an incredibly powerful and vicious snow leopard called Tai Lung, is expected to attack, the Wise Master Oogway (an old, but wise turtle) announces that it is time for an ancient prophecy to be fulfilled. One skilled individual will become the "Dragon Warrior" and realize his destiny by defeating Tai Lung. Will it be Monkey, Mantis, Crane, Viper the Snake, or Tiger?

When the selection process begins, Po exerts a great deal of effort trying to scale the courtyard wall in order to watch the proceedings. After a series of of very funny mishaps, he accidently finds himself named as the Chosen One. Hilarity—and lots and lots of really cool fighting—ensues.

The messages contained in the story are that a misfit discovers he can live in his own skin (or fur)—and even be a hero!—if he only believes in himself. An underdog beats a bully. Rivals learn to be friends.

The themes of destiny and self-belief run throughout the movie and make excellent topics of discussion for families.

As Molly Meldrum would say, "Do yourself a favor", and check out this movie. I'd love to hear what you learned from it.

Enjoy,

Sensei Perez

My husband and I have two amazing girls, Taylor ( and Ashley (6) and they have been attending Kenpo 4 Kids karate. They love it so much they have renamed their training day, Friday, “Kenpo Day”, and this how we meet Tony Perez.

Tony is a once in a lifetime person that you tell everyone about. His zest for offering a better quality of learning to children is so contagious that after just talking to him, you feel and want to do better. He is someone that has a genuine passion for helping children experience inner and outer self worth and confidence as well as the knowledge that respect and consideration will guide you through life with success, whether you are an excellent sports person or have physical disabilities, everyone is treated equal.

Tony works a fulltime job and then evenings and weekends, with the help of his amazing wife, Leah (who also works fulltime), offers Kenpo 4 Kids karate in the Forest Lake area.

Tony has built his training on not only the discipline and fitness of Kenpo but also life lessons. He is a man that holds the children’s respect not by yelling or coming across as a man that they should fear because of his abilities, but by giving them the same respect. He explains to the children the rewards, experiences, dangers and consequences that life has to offer. Encouragement is always the forefront, always positive, never negative, distilling in children, through group behaviour, that the family bond is truly a gift. This is reinforced when part way through each lesson Tony gets the kids to run to their parents and give them a big hug and kiss and thank them for bringing them to training and this small gesture is definitely a highlight for me, and when you see the faces of new parent’s that bring their kids, and when they first experience this, you know that it’s more than just and extra curricula activity.

We as parents look forward to going to training with the kids, we enjoy it as much as they do, and it is a joy to see their enthusiasm and eagerness to learn, which is all because of Tony.

We feel that he is providing us and all the other families he comes into contact with, an outstanding service, and we are very grateful for that.

Julie and Alex Stassen
May 2008

Sensei Perez has won the 2008 Mission Australia Child Friendly Excellence Award for service to families in local communities. The award was presented by Federal Member for Oxley Bernie Ripoll at a ceremony in Brisbane today.

To all students,
The winner of the drawing competition for the pins is Isabella Bonaccorso from Sydney.
I would like to congratulate her and all the k4k students who summited their drawings.No winners were picked for Rat Brat at this time,however new characters will be introduced at the end of the year.
Isabella's drawing will now be made as a charm .
Again thank you all

Congratulations to the following team members for a successful belt test on Saturday.

1st Degree Junior Black Belt

Amadee S
Carissa K

1st Degree Brown Belt

Elise T
MarcusT
Taylor L

2nd Degree Brown Belt

Nicole A
Dean B
Lucas S
Isaac Mc

3rd Degree Brown Belt

Lauren N
Georgia N
Jack
Reece C
Max C
Michael E

Green Belt

Roman S
Emily W

Blue

Matthew F

Congratulations to Amadee S. and Carissa K. recently on attaining their 1st degree junior black belt this weekend

In a gruelling 2 hour belt test attended by friends, family and fellow team members Amadee (L), and Carissa (R), were required to demonstrate all the basic blocks; strikes, kicks and punches, 7 sets (including Staff Set), 8 forms (including their own thesis form) and 48 self defense techniques against adult opponents. Their strength and endurance was further tested by completing 40 push - ups and sit ups as well as 500 star jumps. Additionally they answered 20 questions in an oral test covering the principles, concepts and theories of Kenpo Karate. The girls were also required to demonstrate their knowledge of Kyusho pressure points and energy restoration. The significance of this accomplishment is outstanding as both girls are just 11 years old and have been training in the Kenpo 4 Kids program at the Forest Lake headquarters of Kenpo Karate Australasia for 5 years.

Both girls showed exactly what it takes to be a K4K Black Belt displaying attitude, behavior, character and commitment.

Equally important is their parents too showed what it takes to be black belt parents providing, support, encouragement and commitment in a warm and loving environment. Well done to all !

Be the first K4K Queensland team member to correctly identify "Who Am I?" and you will win a set of Focus Target Mitts.
email your answer, "I Am _______" to Sensei Perez If you think you know the answer. perezt@ozemail.com.au
Winner will be announced on 31st March
Put your thinking hats on, good luck.

"Who Am I?"

I am your constant companion.
I am your greatest helper or heaviest burden.
I will push you onward to success or drag you down to failure.
I am completely at your command. Half the things you do you might just as well turn over to me, and I will do them quickly, correctly.
I am easily managed – you must merely be firm with me.
Show me exactly how you want something done, and after a few lessons I will do it automatically.
I am the servant of all great people but sadly of all failures as well. Those who are failures I have made failures.
I am not a machine, though I work with all the precision of a machine plus the intelligence of a human being.
You may run me for profit or turn me for ruin – it makes no difference to me.
Take me, train me, be firm with me and I will place the world at your feet.
Be easy with me and I will destroy you.

Members of our Black Belt Club were invited to join our new Leadership Team. As part of the tradition and heritage of the martial arts, students have always assisted the instructor to maintain the quality and integrity of the school. Whilst we didn't always have a title for the team, we had the desire to teach and pride in our school, to go the extra mile to insure our reputation as the best!
They will participate in three personal development courses to improve their skills as trainee instructors.

Confidence Course - Term One

Confidence is one of the most important ingredients in a successful life. Our success in everything we do in our lives, whether sports, business, friendship, or love, depends on our own self-confidence.
The confident person is able to focus on “the big picture” instead of fretting over temporary setbacks. The confident person evaluates his or her own achievements according to his or her abilities, not in comparison to the abilities of others.

These lessons are designed to have our students increase their confidence and identify that self-confidence is one of the most important gifts that we can give ourselves. Martial arts training helps to build self-confidence from the inside out by setting achievable goals in a supportive environment.

Courage Course - Term Two

These lessons are not designed to have our students deny their fears. Instead they are about helping our students identify what is more important than fear in their lives. When we learn that fears are usually false assumptions, we begin to grow and stretch. This growing and stretching makes us better martial artists, students, workers, businessmen and women and people in general.

Attitude Course – Term Three

Attitude is something you develop throughout your life. It is the feeling you have about certain things. You can look at it as the way you are inclined toward, or away from something. For example, you are probably inclined toward good grades in school and away from snakes. When you are inclined toward something you have a positive attitude about it. When you are inclined away from something you have a negative attitude about it.

These lessons are about developing a positive attitude. Since we learn how to think about events and things, we can learn to think about most things positively. To live a happy life, it is very important to build a positive attitude about nearly everything in your life.

We are viewed as role models and so we lead by example. We strive to demonstrate the selfless ability to give, without limitation, not only our martial arts knowledge but also ourselves – to not just our students, but their families, friends, strangers, and our local community.

We are morally and ethically obligated to give our students the lessons and examples that they can live by. We have the responsibility of being a powerful force in their lives. Our actions, attitudes and mannerisms can influence the way they view themselves and chose how to live their lives.

1. Our school is family orientated and student friendly. We offer a warm, caring environment, where all students are recognized for their individuality and acknowledged for the efforts – not just the results achieved.
2. We view Kenpo 4 Kids as a Life Skills program not a recreational martial sport. We are teaching kids not just the physical elements of punching and kicking but the ABC’s of Life – ATTITUDE, BEHAVIOUR, and CHARACTER
3. We stress to our students that it’s the journey that’s important, not just the destination of Black Belt. We believe can’t reach that Black Belt destination unless you make a commitment to your training, your instructor and most importantly to yourself. Commitment stems from Self-Discipline
4. Kenpo 4 Kids training is not a commodity paid for by each lesson. It’s an investment in a child’s emotional (SPIRIT), psychological (MIND), and physical (BODY) well being, and a parent’s peace of mind.
5. Through Kenpo training we aim to teach kids to trust, rely and act on their intuition. This can give them the ability to make more good choices than bad ones, which in turn can empower them to become their own guardians
6. By learning about good and bad choices they become aware of consequences and learn the value of taking responsibility for their actions. This in turn can promote sound Self-Confidence.
7. We believe that Self-Confidence and Respect are the keys to success in all areas of a child’s life.

Would you like 2008 to be your best year ever?
No matter how great these past few years have been, there is a great chance that you would like this year to be your best ever. I know I certainly do!
.
Have you started planning your training goals for 2008? Think of this as your Wish List
Have you identified your greatest memories and achievements of last year? Think of this as your Victory List
How have you grown and improved in the past 12 months?
What would like to achieve in the next 6-12 months?
Do you have a clear picture of what you want to accomplish in your Kenpo 4 Kids training and with your health and fitness?
What goals would you like to achieve in your personal and school life?

There is a Law that teaches us what we think about the most we tend to get. It is called the Law of Dominant Thought. What do you dream of having, being or doing?
The clearer you are in your thinking about your wishes and desires, the greater chance you have of their achievement. Especially if you write it down – “ think it and ink it!”
Preparing to be great in 2008 begins by having a clear picture of what great looks like to you.

Most people never take the time to write down what they want. Which is probably why, so few people ever achieve greatness in their lives.

Remember, Black Belt Champions are not like most people - they are successful achievers. One of the reasons for this, is they are perfectly clear in what they want. If you take the time now to create clarity of your dreams and desire for the next 6-12 months, you will lay the foundation for personal success in all areas of your life.

Below is a book review by Nicole A. 3rd Degree Brown Belt 11 years old from Kenpo 4 Kids Forest Lake. The book reviewed is "Confidence, A Child's First Weapon" by Larry Tatum.
Well done Nicole !

The beginnings of martial arts were found in China although it’s very early beginnings came from India.

The 28th Indian Buddhist priest, Daruma, traveled from china to India in 528 after death (AD). During this time Daruma found China was in time of chaos due to the fact that the Chinese government was not working and the warlords caused many problems for the people in china.

Daruma tried teaching over many occasions but found that the standard he had set was much too high to achieve during this time for those who had attempted the martial arts. He decided to continue teaching away from all the chaos, in the Shaolin Temple. Daruma found that the monks would fall asleep while meditating. He soon began teaching hand and leg movements. He told the monks that these movements could be used to defend them selves and not to kill, because it was wrong to kill but is was also wrong not to defend ones self Daruma advised the monks,

“Let every hand become a sword,
Every finger a spear and every fist a mace”.

There were and still are many types of karate, in fact over a hundred styles. (Karate is modern day term used to describe martial arts in. The original Chinese name for martial arts was Ch’uan-shu or Kung Fu.) In the Monasteries “Karate” was a part of the physical training test so that you could become a monk.

In fact, children who wanted to become a monk were usually sent to complete a test of character at the age of five or six.

The test started off with, the children kneeling in front of the Monastery. The time that they spent kneeling sometimes went for days but the children who started playing and talking were sent back home. The second part of the test was to have tea with the master. The children who drank the tea before the master drank his were sent home because it was considered to be rude and disrespectful, but those who waited for the master stayed and were able to continue on to the third part of the test .

As these children grew older the martial arts training become more realistic and very necessary, the adults started training against each other with hardly any control. That is why the Shaolin Temple was reknown for its Martial Arts.

This intense training went on for years. They had mastered breaking boards with there bare hands and feet, although the test was not over they still had to complete the final part of the test, this was the most difficult part out of all to complete.

The final test was very serious, sad, but in a way exciting!! It would begin just about at the break of dawn.

The test starts at a hallway with 103 wooden dummies inside the hallway. This hallway would lead to the outside of the monastery where they were free to leave the monastery.

The wooden dummies within the hallway were armed with weapons, such as a spear or a mace and many more types of weapons. Though some of these dummies were self-set off, others would set off when you stepped on the floorboards. Each dummy was quite lethal and dangerous.

Once the man has gone through the hallway there will be a small room and in this room there is a 500 pound cauldron full of burning hot embers. On either of the cauldron was a picture, on the right side of the cauldron was a tiger and the left a dragon. This man must lift the cauldron to open the door to the outside of the monastery.

The Tiger and the Dragon are positioned on the cauldron so that once the man lifts the cauldron it will leave a permanent burn on his arms. This burn is of the tiger and dragon and it was proof that the man had passed the test and received his freedom.

The monk who passed the final test is qualified to enter and leave the monastery by the front door, this was a privilege reserved for those who passed the test.

To become your absolute best in the dojo, at home, in your personal and professional life... you must develop SELF DISCIPLINE of your Habits, Actions & Attitudes!

Ordinary people wish for things in life, but they lack the discipline to set goals to achieve their desires...

Extra-ordinary people have the discipline to set goals for their future and they develop an action plan to achieve them...

Ordinary people give their minimum and are willing to accept mediocre results...

Extra-ordinary people aim for Excellence and discipline themselves to give their maximum effort to achieve greatness...

Ordinary people tend to procrastinate and make excuses for not getting started...

Extra-ordinary people don't wait... they create... they are disciplined to take the right actions that will make things happen...

Ordinary people are quick to give up and quit, they develop a habit of starting and stopping, never finishing...

Extra-ordinary people are disciplined to persevere and stick to it until they do it... they develop a Non-Quitting Spirit!

The answer is simple, the difference between ordinary and extra-ordinary is the "extra" in the middle. Anybody can be average, but extra-ordinary people always strive to be their best in every area of life. They don't build statues in parks for ordinary people

Self-Discipline is the key to becoming extra-ordinary and is a key attribute for success in all areas of you life.

"Discipline weighs ounces...regret weighs tons!"

I'd like to share an old story with you that clearly illustrates how a person's greatest weapon is self-confidence. The story is about a confrontation between a master of the Japanese tea ceremony and a ronin - a rogue samurai (aka a bully). I read this in "Living the Martial Way" by Forrest E. Morgan, Maj USAF. Recommended reading. My own comments are in () It goes something like this, enjoy;-

The ronin was walking through a village and while in the midst of a crowded square (aka shopping center) he deliberately turned suddenly, causing the scabbard of his sword to bang against the tea master's body, (provoking).

"You bumped my sword," the ronin screamed, (intimidating). "You have insulted me and for that I'm going to kill you." (a challenge)

The tea master knew immediately that the ronin really meant to kill him. The tea master was frail, (the little guy) and was gripped with fear. (Flight, Fight or Flee syndrome). "I meant you no such insult, it was an accident, I'm very sorry. I'm not a warrior and I have no desire to fight, I have no sword. (Difusing)

The ronin, (bully) could smell the man's fear (and made him feel more powerful and in control - just what he wanted)

"Then get a sword and meet me on the road tomorrow and noon. There you will let you die like a man. But if you don't turn up, I will hunt you down like a wild animal and then you will die like a coward ( a direct threat). The ronin then turned his back and with a sly smile on his face he walked way, leaving a very on the frightened tea master to consider his options.

At this point it seems that the tea master is in a lose / lose situation, that he has no way out. Does he have choice? Yes! The choice is whether he will be a victim or a survivor. Clearly it's not a matter of winning or losing, it;s much graver than that. If he choses the victim mindset, he'll freeze and then apathy and denial will seal his fate. If he choses to be a survivor instead of being threatened by the situation he can become challenged by it. But how do you do this? Read on;-

Clearly not wanting to die, the tea master remembered that a master samurai also lived in the village. He decided to seek him out and ask his help. (the 1st step to challenging a situation is simply to ask questions). He thought maybe he could pay the samurai to fight for him (relying on the good samaritan to jump in and help)

He found the samurai and told his story but the samurai's response didn't instill him with confidence. "I don't hire myself out to commoner s, use your money to buy your own sword and fight your own battles" said the samurai, (doesn't want to get involved and possibly put his own life at risk)

"Then will you teach me the sword, I will pay you handsomely?"
"I don't teach commoners either and what do you think you will learn in one day anyway?", replied the samurai
"What have I got to lose?", said the tea master. The samurai then realised that this man was an innocent victim in need of help and he finally agreed to teach the tea master. The tea master bought a sword but after many hours practice it was clear that the tea master was hopelessly inept and no match for the ronin.

The samurai calmly looked into the tea master's eyes and coolly said, "tomorrow you are going to die." The tea master was crushed as he dropped his sword to his side and he just stood there, looking at the ground with his shoulders saggng and his sword hanging loosely in his hand.

The samuari pondered him for a minute and then simply said, "let's have tea." Through tea, recognition is given that every human encounter is a singular occasion which can, and will, never recur again exactly. Thus every aspect of tea must be savored for what it gives the participants.

(The Japanese tea ceremony (cha-no-yu, chado, or sado) is a traditional ritual influenced by Zen Buddhism in which powdered green tea, or matcha (抹茶), is ceremonially prepared by a skilled practitioner and served to a small group of guests in a tranquil setting. A tea master must be familiar with the production and types of tea, with kimono, calligraphy, flower arranging, ceramics, incense and a wide range of other disciplines and traditional arts in addition to his or her school's tea practices, the study of tea ceremony takes many years and often lasts a lifetime. Even to participate as a guest in a formal tea ceremony requires knowledge of sado, including the prescribed gestures and phrases expected of guests, and the proper way to take tea and sweets, and general deportment in the tea room.)

The two men sat beneath a shady tree, and the tea master began his routine of preparing the tea. The samurai was amazed as he artfully prepared the tea and he noticed a miraculous transformation occur. Gone was the frail, broken man who stood before him only moments ago. Now his back was straight, his shoulders square , and his head erect. His eyes were clear and focused, not misty and wandering as they had been. Before the samurai now sat the solemn, dignified master of an ancient ritual.

The tea master poured the tea in the ritual manner and offered it to the samurai. His face was the picture of calmness, and looking into his eyes the samurai could tell that the man was in "mushin". (this is a Japanese term which means "no-mind"

"Stop", said the samurai suddenly. "Do you want to kill your enemy tomorrow?"
"But you said I am going to die."
"You are, but do you want to die like a warrior?" Do you want to kill your enemy?"
"Yes", said the tea master
"Then do what you are doing right now!"
"But I'm doing nothing nothing right now"
"Exactly!. Your mind is empty. You neither desire life nor fear death. When you meet your enemy tomorrow I want you to empty your mind as you have done just now and raise your sword above your head. When he attacks, do nothing but cut and die"

The tea master, being a true master understood.

The next day the ronin was surprised to see the tea master already on the road waiting for him. As he approached and the man raised his sword above his head, the ronin chuckled to himself, (arrogant, cocky and conceited). However as he got closer, he began to feel uneasy. He expected to see a broken man, trembling with fear, begging for mercy, (power trip) But what he got was a man, with a sword raised over his head. The tea master was steady and his face was calm. He saw nothing....only death!.

What was the outcome?

The ronin's mouth went dry, his heart began to beat faster and his breathing became rapid and shallow. The palms of his hands became sweaty. (He was experiencing an adrenalin dump which is the bodies natural, instinctive reaction.) This was exactly how he had made the tea master feel on their first meeting.

After a moment he said, " I cannot defeat you.". He turned and walked away leaving a relieved and bewildered tea master.

This story perfectly illustrates power in it's naked form. The ronin began in a position of power. He knew he had frightened the tea master and he knew that he could kill him. That gave power over his victim. But the master samurai showed the tea master that he was ultimately more powerful than the ronin. You see, the ronin was a competent swordsman, but he was no master. the tea master on the other hand, was inept at at combat , but he was a true master. He discovered the secret of personal power.

Personal power is a quality few but warriors truly understand.. Personal power is quite simply the force that results from freeing yourself from the fear of failure, no matter what the consequences.

We all go though life making decisions by weighing the potential outcomes of our actions. Too often though we decide on a course of action based not on what we can achieve, but on what fearful outcome we can avoid.

Achieving personal power means finding the courage to move ahead no matter what your opponent threatens.

This year we will opening applications for new student enrollment in Kenpo 4 KIDS over 3 x intakes.

1st INTAKE FEBRUARY, 2008
01/02/08 though to 29/02/08

2nd INTAKE MAY, 2008
02/05/08 through to 30/05/08

3rd INTAKE AUGUST, 2008
01/08/08 through to 29/08/07

CLASS NUMBERS ARE LIMITED. NEW STUDENTS WILL ONLY BE ACCEPTED WITHIN THESE 3 INTAKE PERIODS

Our class times for 2008 are listed below. Please note some classes have changed and the addition of new classes;-

VENUE:- FOREST LAKE STATE PRIMARY SCHOOL, KAURI PLACE, FOREST LAKE

KKA adult's classes resume on Mon. 21/01/08 from 7:30pm - 9:00pm then on;-

MONDAY'S
7:30pm - 9:00pm

K4K children's classes resume Tues. 22/02.08 from 6:00pm - 7:00pm then on;-

TUESDAY'S:-

6:00pm - 7:00pm K4K YELLOW / ORANGE / PURPLE

7:00pm - 8:00pm NEW WEAPONS CLASS.
This year we will be offering specialist classes in weapons. The idea of introducing these is as a training aid to enhance knowledge previously gained and to improve, focus, coordination, muscular strength and endurance. Each school term we will offer a new weapon;-

1st TERM is an introduction to the KENPO STAFF.
2nd TERM is an introduction to the TWIN KENPO STICKS.
3rd TERM is an introduction to the JO (single short stick)

NOTE THESE ARE SPECIALIST, ADDITIONAL CLASSES.
Mixed class Open to K4K BROWN + BLACK BELTS only and all KKA + WTDA adult Students.

Cost is $150.00 per term. You will be required to purchase your own weapon for each term.
LIMITED NUMBERS - MAXIMUM 10 students

WEDNESDAY'S:-
6:00pm - 7:30pm BROWN / BLACK / LEADERSHIP TEAM
7:30pm - 8:30pm WOMEN'S TACTICAL DEFENCE

VENUE:- FOREST LAKE FITNESS CENTER, HIGH ST. FOREST LAKE
Classes resume Fri. 29.01.08 the on;-

FRIDAY'S :-
4:30pm - 5:30pm - EXISTING K4K JUNIORS
5:45pm - 6:45pm K4K NEW STUDENTS ONLY
7:00pm - 8:00pm K4K BLUE / GREEN

PRIVATE CLASSES:-
By appointment only.
Costs:-
CHILDREN:- $35.00 per hour. Cost splitting allowed. Maximum 2 students per class
ADULTS:- $60.00 per hour. Cost splitting allowed. Maximum 2 students per class

2008 is going to be another big year for our school. Please this years calendar of events below;-

Wed. 02/04/08 NOTE REVISED DATE Steve Stewart Kyusho + Kenpo Seminar. Children 5:15pm - 6:00pm Cost $25.00 (Children's seminar time to be confirmed): Adults 6:30pm - 8:30pm Cost $60.00

Sat. 07/06/08 Black Belt Test

Sat. 12.07.08 and Sun. 13.07.08 Kenpo 4 Kids Kenpo Camp NEW ITEM

Wed. 17/09/08 Ed. Parker Jr. Kenpo Seminar 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Sat. 20.09.08 5th K4K World Championships - Melbourne

Sat. 06/12/08 Black Belt Test

Sun. 07/12/08 Annual Christmas party and awards presentation - Wet "n" Wild, Gold Coast

Check newsletter for more details

If you’re considering enrolling your child in a martial arts school here are some things you should consider, suggests Kenpo 4 Kids National Director of Coaching and Forest Lake instructor Tony Perez.

• Above all you should be thinking in terms of what that martial arts training will do for that child.

• Each child’s needs and capabilities are different so training should be individually tailored to bring out the best in them as an individual.

• When children come to a martial arts school one of the first things they should be taught is how to respect each other. They should be the focus of attention. When they realize that their teacher is there for them, so will they in turn respect their teacher and their fellow students.

• Are there meaningful rituals and formalities being taught? These elements are very important because they instill a code of sound moral conduct and acceptable ethical behavior.

• Martial arts should teach children how to think. That is probably one of the most import things. Fighting is not the big thing. It’s the other qualities that emerge through this type of training – commitment; focus; discipline and self-respect that are paramount.

• Learning should then become a fun challenge - not something they are forced to do.

To hear is to doubt; to see is to be deceived; but feeling is believing. Come and feel the difference at Kenpo 4 Kids - the martial arts program the world is taking to.

I am often asked by friends who know my martial arts background what they should pay for their children's lessons, or indeed for their own. Recently one of my friends, called me, outraged that the school he had just visited wanted what he considered to be too much money to teach his son. To him I gave this response.

We live in a cash and carry society. Everyday we purchase goods and services, and we feel no further obligation to the vendor once the price is paid. But martial arts training is different. Yes, of course your monthly fees support the school, BUT your instructor is not selling you a service - he is giving you part of his life!

Qualified instructors have devoted many years attempting to master their art. Countless hours are spent in training halls, usually following days spent at full-time occupations. They pay for their expertise in with the sacrifices of time, blood, sweat and even broken bones. A qualified martial arts instructor has in many cases devoted more time learning, training and honing his skills than many mainstream professionals. So, how do you think your monthly fee can pay for his wisdom? It can't. The money you pay makes it possible for the instructor to offer you his art.

What are martial arts lessons worth to the shy little boy who never raised his hand in class for lack of confidence, letting a world of learning pass him by before gaining the self esteem not only to raise his hand but to ask questions, having taken just a few weeks of martial arts lessons?

What are lessons worth to a young child’s mother, a single mom struggling to make it through life with a young son lacking in focus, motivation, and self discipline? After nine months in the program, there were tears in her eyes when she and a beaming son came in to the school with his first ever report card containing an A!

What are lessons worth to the little eight year old girl whose lessons gave her the wherewithal to give a strange man a hard enough kick in the shins that he let go of her long enough for her to run away. (Thankfully, they arrested him later that day.) Any parent would get chills even thinking about such things, but I am sure those parents will never question the value of those lessons.

It's no secret that school systems that are constantly being challenged to address the vast issues covering a child's complete education. In a world of gangs, drugs and random violence, we all think it will never happen to our kids. What's it worth to a parent's extra peace of mind to have their child involved in the pursuit of physical and mental EXCELLENCE while learning the value of respect to themselves and others surrounded by a positive environment of discipline and learning?

What is a child's confidence and self-esteem worth? What is it worth to experience the joy of self discipline, motivation, and persistence? What is less stress and better health worth? More importantly, should your children ever have to face a threatening situation, what is their life worth?

The answer, of course, is priceless, yet the tuition in our school is far more reasonable.

Kenpo 4 Kids believe that character and excellence results in developing champions. Our aim is to transform boys and girls into responsible, confident individuals and team members.

Kenpo 4 Kids Does A Better Job;-

Kenpo 4 Kids can mold ordinary young people into effective leaders by instilling children with the self-confidence they will need to make the right decisions. Our society seems to have trouble transmitting healthy values to young people.

Kenpo 4 Kids Set Absolute Standards;-

Kenpo 4 Kids has set some absolute standards for team members to follow:
• Tell the truth.
• Don't give up.
• Don't whine or make excuses.
• Do your best, no matter how trivial the task.
• Choose a difficult right over the easy wrong.
• Look out for the group before you look out for yourself.
• Judge others by their actions, not their words or their race.
Following these standards make a person better and proud of him or herself.

Kenpo 4 Kids Positive Habit;-

Kenpo 4 Kids transmits the lesson taught centuries ago by an ancient Greek philosopher: "Don't pursue happiness; pursue excellence. Make a habit of that, and you can have a fulfilling life."

Kenpo 4 Kids Emphasis;-

Kenpo 4 Kids training emphasizes honor, courage and commitment. This is a powerful alternative to the looming disrespect and distrust that seems so widespread among society. We also emphasize integrity – being who you say you are.

Kenpo 4 Kids Pursuit of Excellence;-

Young people want values but they are rightly suspicious of talk without action words are meaningless unless you live them, as well of all things that can motivate people. The pursuit of excellence is one of the most effective and one of the least used in our society.

At Kenpo 4 Kids we believe that you can do anything if you have the right can-do attitude.

Check back soon for this years class schedule and calendar of events

Our Forest Lake school will be holding 3 x induction periods in 2008.

We will be accepting applications for enrollment in;
February, May and August.

Class numbers are limited so we can continue to provide a high level of service to our students.
Applications for February enrollment are now open

Contact;-
Tony or Leah on; 0409 599 326 or
email; perezt@ozemail.com.au