classical floating Dragon
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Cantonese Artisans skilled with traditional Chinese martial Arts
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classical floating Dragon
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cont - The Third-in-a-Series (Current, Future, and Past) I am relating my personal commitment, inner-actions and beliefs to a tremendous life long journey to discover my identity. During a time which cultures were beginning to have an impact on communities, these practitioners were also showing their own identities for recruiting followers of their imported martial arts' skills. They were also making a life-long journey to achieve their own dreams crossing continents for healthy and spiritual benefits to expand their traditional cultures. These new high demands were beginning to unfold as each planned their travels.
The early immigrants that entered into the United States (U.S.) after the end of World War II (WWII) (1945+) were men looking for opportunities to support their families. Since that time, many Americans and British soldiers were stationed in Asian countries which exposed them to the region's fighting system. ie. Aikido (aiki-jujetsu), Hapkido, Judo, Karate, classical Chinese Karate, Okinawan Karate, Wrestling, Chinese Gung Fu, and other various Chinese self defense systems. The number of laborers that entered the country had experiences in skilled and non-skilled areas. Because there were more than enough opportunities, it did not matter at-this-time what these jobs demanded. The phrase "Gim-Sum Mountains" (Golden Hills, CA 淘金高峰1848) was afforded to those who work ! And Work they Did! From Dusk till Dawn has become familiar to the migrates during these early years.
These included physical labor in the agricultural industries, building construction, the clothing industries (sweat shops), and the long hard hours in the food industry. Because of the jobs created from these opportunities, many of these laborers had to find a relaxing point to cope with the mental stress. The majority of employment available were for men, however, there were a few women included in these early days in America. The social clubs initiated among themselves because of the language barriers and the secrecy that is still very much visible. These clubs included card games, Mah-Jong , a game of chance (a form of dominoes), and Tai-Chi-chuan exercises (a form of Chinese Martial Arts).
The early immigrants that entered into the United States (U.S.) after the end of World War II (WWII) (1945+) were men looking for opportunities to support their families. Since that time, many Americans and British soldiers were stationed in Asian countries which exposed them to the region's fighting system. ie. Aikido (aiki-jujetsu), Hapkido, Judo, Karate, classical Chinese Karate, Okinawan Karate, Wrestling, Chinese Gung Fu, and other various Chinese self defense systems. The number of laborers that entered the country had experiences in skilled and non-skilled areas. Because there were more than enough opportunities, it did not matter at-this-time what these jobs demanded. The phrase "Gim-Sum Mountains" (Golden Hills, CA 淘金高峰1848) was afforded to those who work ! And Work they Did! From Dusk till Dawn has become familiar to the migrates during these early years.
These included physical labor in the agricultural industries, building construction, the clothing industries (sweat shops), and the long hard hours in the food industry. Because of the jobs created from these opportunities, many of these laborers had to find a relaxing point to cope with the mental stress. The majority of employment available were for men, however, there were a few women included in these early days in America. The social clubs initiated among themselves because of the language barriers and the secrecy that is still very much visible. These clubs included card games, Mah-Jong , a game of chance (a form of dominoes), and Tai-Chi-chuan exercises (a form of Chinese Martial Arts).
early 1950s 10'x10' Boxing Ring
Among the men laborers during this time, were some with skilled experience in Chinese Martial Arts. From their early childhood before migrating to the U.S., physical sport's contact was a large part of learning curriculum. Each student in their early development was required to accept, captured and honed these skills for national pride. However, these skills were not enough to provide for the needs of the family and survival in the years that followed from the turmoil of the Far East after the world wars. My connections and exposures to these many stories (1950+) were exchanged from my father to his many conversations with his male friends in the "Benevolent Associations". The early days and years of my physical and mental training was encouraged from my father. He shared many stories he had personally witnessed with me because of my curiosity to the history of Chinese martial arts. However, the self commitment was left up to me if I wanted to expand my knowledge, mentally and physically. Since the age of five, I have seen the first form of physically challenged contact. Growing up in a diverse neighborhood gave me opportunities to be exposed to these confrontations watching skilled boxers (pugilists) applied their expertise. The small areas in these gymnasiums included an elevated 10'X10' boxing ring. (standard 16'X20') Also, there was plenty of areas surrounding the ring for shadow boxing, speed-bag for alertness and timing, weight lifting, and physical agility for strength. I took advantage of the equipment and exposures to witness 'great-bird-eyes-view' training for extra self improvements. Footwork Hands Up Guard "bop-n-weave".
traditional 10oz boxing gloves
Many of the participants were either currently to become the next great champion-of-their-dreams, or just wanted a place to belong and be part of the opportunity. The students were mostly young boys like myself, but also included several young girls as well. I was amazed that the girls was more physical and serious than the boys.
The fact that I was small in stature had given me an extra incentive and need to be able to protect myself, my brother and sisters. This determination also gave me an early advantage to learn these special training exercises to be proficient to defend my honor and self esteem. The early years of my training gave me self confidence which I had not been able to explain?
Character, Discipline, Focus, Honesty, Integrity, Pride, and Self Respect . . . . .
These basic skills practiced daily through repetitive motions over-and-over prepared me mentally and physically. I was
never a sickly child, as neither were my siblings growing up in a tight oriented family structure. I remember my younger brother watching me go through these exercises with a curious, But careful manner. Little did I know that he was also interested in grasping these skill levels that I have achieved over the years. I have acknowledged that learning traditional Chinese Martial Arts' parallels great traditional Family Values. An example I observed is quite evident when noticing young children with their parents. The code of self respect and losing face provided the Chinese culture excellent discipline.
Commitment, Determination, Loyalty, Perseverance, Respect, are qualities that is taught from learning martial arts' skills. It can be challenging as the early-basic-skills are drilled into the student's mental and physical routines. There are always the days that you may experience frustrations, especially when these simple movements are Not-What-You-Expect to become a Chinese Martial Art's Expert. The skills and mind-set are expressed with practice time, where Defeat, Loss, or Quit, were Not Words uttered in the student's early development. Anger (enlighten) Revenge (friendship)
The fact that I was small in stature had given me an extra incentive and need to be able to protect myself, my brother and sisters. This determination also gave me an early advantage to learn these special training exercises to be proficient to defend my honor and self esteem. The early years of my training gave me self confidence which I had not been able to explain?
Character, Discipline, Focus, Honesty, Integrity, Pride, and Self Respect . . . . .
These basic skills practiced daily through repetitive motions over-and-over prepared me mentally and physically. I was
never a sickly child, as neither were my siblings growing up in a tight oriented family structure. I remember my younger brother watching me go through these exercises with a curious, But careful manner. Little did I know that he was also interested in grasping these skill levels that I have achieved over the years. I have acknowledged that learning traditional Chinese Martial Arts' parallels great traditional Family Values. An example I observed is quite evident when noticing young children with their parents. The code of self respect and losing face provided the Chinese culture excellent discipline.
Commitment, Determination, Loyalty, Perseverance, Respect, are qualities that is taught from learning martial arts' skills. It can be challenging as the early-basic-skills are drilled into the student's mental and physical routines. There are always the days that you may experience frustrations, especially when these simple movements are Not-What-You-Expect to become a Chinese Martial Art's Expert. The skills and mind-set are expressed with practice time, where Defeat, Loss, or Quit, were Not Words uttered in the student's early development. Anger (enlighten) Revenge (friendship)
Note: The following personal comments and adventures are some-of-my-most-productive as
it reflects my youthful days as a boy learning about life. Paying 'homage', giving 'credit' should come from the 'heart'. These are the 'gifts' I have been taught and having the ability to recognize these thoughts of appreciation.
it reflects my youthful days as a boy learning about life. Paying 'homage', giving 'credit' should come from the 'heart'. These are the 'gifts' I have been taught and having the ability to recognize these thoughts of appreciation.
Bai Si Tea Ceremony
The 1950s in America was a learning period after a world war that experienced conservative social ideas. It was a time that the general population was materialistic in nature. Anticipation for economic growth was at a high between two world powers. It was known as "The Golden Age of Television" which Americans devoted most of their free time watching television broadcast. The age of the television (13" black & white) produced dramatic visions which provided more incentives to learn. It has revolutionized and influenced the way Americans see themselves and the world around us. From my perspective, the impulse to watch and imitate the actions produced quite a humorous reaction from my siblings.
However, it was also a time which I was beginning to ask and question many events throughout my early training periods. This humble experience provided the determination to train harder to prove to myself that I could be as good as the actors.
My father was a very hard traditional individual that demanded discipline and respect as the "figure authority" in the family. As it is within our "based Chinese custom", speaking up or having just the slight negative opinion was not acceptable. Ironically, this method of thought and training process was the same for individuals that wanted to learn traditional martial arts during the 1950s. It has changed and affected the way we see each other, from what we wear,
the music we listened to, what we eat, and the news we receive. The symbols and products from advertising remain
topics of great significance. As such, this trend will become more in focus to the next generation.
As a young student, the initial introduction and showing respect to a 'Sifu' or Master, (teacher of martial arts) is most important to gain trust and to show discipline. The "ceremony of kneeing & bowing to serve tea" is a sign of Loyalty, Respect & Trust to a Sifu (teacher). This act of Discipline is the most significant as a tradition value in the inner-circles of Chinese Martial Arts. The figure of a martial art's teacher, known as "Sifu or Master" hold a high honor to the family structure. Some may said it has the same respect, but it Does-Not-Replace a father figure in a young child's development.
My father (Mr. Louie) was most proud because it shows his maturity and temperament to support my commitment and interests at a very early stage of my childhood. Growing up in a diverse community taught us the meaning of sharing other cultural activities. I always took the lead in actions that would be considered gregarious, compared to my brothers and sisters. They always would take a non-role to accept a few new friends because they kept to themselves. The only inner actions my siblings took was limited to our immediate family members with approval(s) from our father and mother. Our family like many Chinese cultures, were very traditional and follow the family structures as developed from the early and older generations. The young siblings only responded when they were directed to speak.
Our father owned his own business and was self employed which kept him busy working to provide for our family. He knew that I was the vocal one and at times would venture outside of the family structure. The diverse cultures in the neighborhood were ethnic groups of Hispanics, Latinos, Blacks, and other European races. The boys and girls that I met shared many of my interests, especially in sport activities. Several of the friendships was established from participating in team sports' activities in area community parks. Competition was readily available because of the cultural pride that exist.
My training years that followed were very physical, but enjoyable because of the fact I was the smallest many times in the lesson plans. Fellow classmates were always wanting and willing to be paired up with me. At times, it would cause disputes that went beyond the schedule sparring sessions. However, it also develop a connection of two ethnic cultures, the Chinese and the Hispanics races. Traditional family values were very close-knit because of "machismo-proud".
Historically, both cultures through generations has always placed the male 'father-figure' as the strong arm of the family structure. But, the female 'counter-part' is the bond and glue supported from home grown necessity. As a young boy growing up in this diverse environment, I had to learn to adapt and compete for respect. These were important reasons that I made a commitment to continued and be involved with our neighborhood activities. However, my parents wanted and encouraged us to enroll into public elementary school. During the early years, we were not adapting to the school environment. At times, my brother and sisters were single out just because we were different from the other boys and girls in our small physical appearances. Our Chinese culture and language had often made us an easy target to be "bullied from the other ethnic cultures". The majority of the ethnic races were of Hispanic and Latino backgrounds. There were times when the girls in our classes would defend me on my behalf so I would not be easily pushed around. This only made me trained harder than the rest of the classmates. Also, it did not discourage me from taking part in local community activities, especially the sport events. I took an interest in the boxing classes and gained several friends in these classes.
患难见真情 In hardship we see true friendship
The training skills that I had quickly grasp gain the approval and respect from the older boys in the gymnasium by
not giving in Or giving up an inch. My desire to achieve and improve gave me the self confidence to continue with
the skills and techniques I had developed from my mentor. The boxing techniques combined with the Chinese martial arts' advanced me into the intermediate classes with the older boys and girls. I began to train twice a day, early afternoon in Chinese martial arts and evening Boxing classes at the neighborhood center. My cultural brothers and sisters accepted me as a favorite classmate willing to share my skill levels. But, there were a few boys that were visitors that challenged our efforts with 'boastful verbal exchanges'. The head of the center did not encouraged this type of activity and at times would expelled them from the premises. However, these same visitors would hang around outside the center, and wanted to prove and push our skills. The leader of these rude intruders met us after we had finish with our classes. He called out to our "smallest student", and wanted to test our boxing techniques with their "favorite pupil".
We did not back down from this type of aggressive behavior from them. But we knew from our training that this was not-to-be-tolerated. So we asked the 'senior' classmate for directions which he would ask the coach for how to approach this situation. These actions continued until finally we arranged a supervised sparring session against these intruders. Because the 'boxing' lessons and the skills was for recreation, the rules for this match was very simple. It was decided that 3-rounds at 1-minute per round would be agreed upon. Since I was the "smallest student", they chose and "picked" me to meet their "favorite pupil". I was focused and disciplined from my boxing but also had the advantage of the martial arts skills my 'father' and the senior practitioner taught me. We were always told not to exhibit any type of fisticuffs outside the center. But this was a situation that has been boil-over-the past few months and could not be avoided. This was perhaps my first actual match outside of my Boxing Classes. So I was prepared to test my skills against all odds. Win-or-Lose .
However, it was also a time which I was beginning to ask and question many events throughout my early training periods. This humble experience provided the determination to train harder to prove to myself that I could be as good as the actors.
My father was a very hard traditional individual that demanded discipline and respect as the "figure authority" in the family. As it is within our "based Chinese custom", speaking up or having just the slight negative opinion was not acceptable. Ironically, this method of thought and training process was the same for individuals that wanted to learn traditional martial arts during the 1950s. It has changed and affected the way we see each other, from what we wear,
the music we listened to, what we eat, and the news we receive. The symbols and products from advertising remain
topics of great significance. As such, this trend will become more in focus to the next generation.
As a young student, the initial introduction and showing respect to a 'Sifu' or Master, (teacher of martial arts) is most important to gain trust and to show discipline. The "ceremony of kneeing & bowing to serve tea" is a sign of Loyalty, Respect & Trust to a Sifu (teacher). This act of Discipline is the most significant as a tradition value in the inner-circles of Chinese Martial Arts. The figure of a martial art's teacher, known as "Sifu or Master" hold a high honor to the family structure. Some may said it has the same respect, but it Does-Not-Replace a father figure in a young child's development.
My father (Mr. Louie) was most proud because it shows his maturity and temperament to support my commitment and interests at a very early stage of my childhood. Growing up in a diverse community taught us the meaning of sharing other cultural activities. I always took the lead in actions that would be considered gregarious, compared to my brothers and sisters. They always would take a non-role to accept a few new friends because they kept to themselves. The only inner actions my siblings took was limited to our immediate family members with approval(s) from our father and mother. Our family like many Chinese cultures, were very traditional and follow the family structures as developed from the early and older generations. The young siblings only responded when they were directed to speak.
Our father owned his own business and was self employed which kept him busy working to provide for our family. He knew that I was the vocal one and at times would venture outside of the family structure. The diverse cultures in the neighborhood were ethnic groups of Hispanics, Latinos, Blacks, and other European races. The boys and girls that I met shared many of my interests, especially in sport activities. Several of the friendships was established from participating in team sports' activities in area community parks. Competition was readily available because of the cultural pride that exist.
My training years that followed were very physical, but enjoyable because of the fact I was the smallest many times in the lesson plans. Fellow classmates were always wanting and willing to be paired up with me. At times, it would cause disputes that went beyond the schedule sparring sessions. However, it also develop a connection of two ethnic cultures, the Chinese and the Hispanics races. Traditional family values were very close-knit because of "machismo-proud".
Historically, both cultures through generations has always placed the male 'father-figure' as the strong arm of the family structure. But, the female 'counter-part' is the bond and glue supported from home grown necessity. As a young boy growing up in this diverse environment, I had to learn to adapt and compete for respect. These were important reasons that I made a commitment to continued and be involved with our neighborhood activities. However, my parents wanted and encouraged us to enroll into public elementary school. During the early years, we were not adapting to the school environment. At times, my brother and sisters were single out just because we were different from the other boys and girls in our small physical appearances. Our Chinese culture and language had often made us an easy target to be "bullied from the other ethnic cultures". The majority of the ethnic races were of Hispanic and Latino backgrounds. There were times when the girls in our classes would defend me on my behalf so I would not be easily pushed around. This only made me trained harder than the rest of the classmates. Also, it did not discourage me from taking part in local community activities, especially the sport events. I took an interest in the boxing classes and gained several friends in these classes.
患难见真情 In hardship we see true friendship
The training skills that I had quickly grasp gain the approval and respect from the older boys in the gymnasium by
not giving in Or giving up an inch. My desire to achieve and improve gave me the self confidence to continue with
the skills and techniques I had developed from my mentor. The boxing techniques combined with the Chinese martial arts' advanced me into the intermediate classes with the older boys and girls. I began to train twice a day, early afternoon in Chinese martial arts and evening Boxing classes at the neighborhood center. My cultural brothers and sisters accepted me as a favorite classmate willing to share my skill levels. But, there were a few boys that were visitors that challenged our efforts with 'boastful verbal exchanges'. The head of the center did not encouraged this type of activity and at times would expelled them from the premises. However, these same visitors would hang around outside the center, and wanted to prove and push our skills. The leader of these rude intruders met us after we had finish with our classes. He called out to our "smallest student", and wanted to test our boxing techniques with their "favorite pupil".
We did not back down from this type of aggressive behavior from them. But we knew from our training that this was not-to-be-tolerated. So we asked the 'senior' classmate for directions which he would ask the coach for how to approach this situation. These actions continued until finally we arranged a supervised sparring session against these intruders. Because the 'boxing' lessons and the skills was for recreation, the rules for this match was very simple. It was decided that 3-rounds at 1-minute per round would be agreed upon. Since I was the "smallest student", they chose and "picked" me to meet their "favorite pupil". I was focused and disciplined from my boxing but also had the advantage of the martial arts skills my 'father' and the senior practitioner taught me. We were always told not to exhibit any type of fisticuffs outside the center. But this was a situation that has been boil-over-the past few months and could not be avoided. This was perhaps my first actual match outside of my Boxing Classes. So I was prepared to test my skills against all odds. Win-or-Lose .
The time to test my skills against my adversary, and to answer the intruders have gained my fellow classmates respect. It became cleared that these intruders were at one time students of the neighborhood center. They had shown disregard to the rules and policies and was excused and no-longer-accepted entrance by the coaches and staff members. We did not immediately informed our coaches or senior students of the contact with the intruders on that particular arrangement. But strangely enough, they had already knew of our unscheduled match to test our skills. During my last hour of training in the center, I verbally acknowledged and confessed to the "fight". It was at that moment, I truly understood what discipline, focus and pride meant. This was not taught, but it was my personal commitment to achieve maturity.
It is not important to Show What-You-Know, but more important to NOT Show What-You-Know
The deeds' is expressed in bravery and superior athletic prowess or "extraordinary ability". The discipline that was
taught to me has been long over due for acceptance that it is within our nature to be non aggressive. As word spread
from the incident with these outsiders, we gain "little notoriety" because the oath we took when we started taking boxing lessons. The older students fully understood the commitment because they also experience the same reactions when they had shown their prowess outside the center. The head of the center and the coaches formed a pact that any zealous student would have to refrain from any extra cultural activities. This controlled mental focus was the first lesson I had to learn to continue with my new chosen social activity. Discipline * * * Honor * * * Maturity * * * Self Control
Whoosh-whoosh-whoosh, Swirling, whoosh-whoosh-whoosh, Swirling, whoosh-whoosh-whoosh, Swirling, sound in rhythm was very demanding and intoxicating. This skillful "art of jump roping" was one of my favorite techniques. It develops co-ordination, eye focus, stamina, speed and strength. It is an important and necessary tool among the "Boxers" in their training session. ie. I would implement this technique into my martial arts' as a future training aid.
It is not important to Show What-You-Know, but more important to NOT Show What-You-Know
The deeds' is expressed in bravery and superior athletic prowess or "extraordinary ability". The discipline that was
taught to me has been long over due for acceptance that it is within our nature to be non aggressive. As word spread
from the incident with these outsiders, we gain "little notoriety" because the oath we took when we started taking boxing lessons. The older students fully understood the commitment because they also experience the same reactions when they had shown their prowess outside the center. The head of the center and the coaches formed a pact that any zealous student would have to refrain from any extra cultural activities. This controlled mental focus was the first lesson I had to learn to continue with my new chosen social activity. Discipline * * * Honor * * * Maturity * * * Self Control
Whoosh-whoosh-whoosh, Swirling, whoosh-whoosh-whoosh, Swirling, whoosh-whoosh-whoosh, Swirling, sound in rhythm was very demanding and intoxicating. This skillful "art of jump roping" was one of my favorite techniques. It develops co-ordination, eye focus, stamina, speed and strength. It is an important and necessary tool among the "Boxers" in their training session. ie. I would implement this technique into my martial arts' as a future training aid.
The encouragement I received also taught me a lot about character building and self control. My father (Mr. Louie) repeated this thought process into our daily routines. As a young boy in Taishan, Guangdong (台山市), a county-level city of Jiangmen, Guangdong, China , he was raised in a traditional Chinese family. The men would be the dominating figure with the stronger voice in decision making. The women are usually the homemaker with the main responsibility raising the child or children in the household. It was very evident after the post years of 1945 (WWII), when many immigrants came "to the land of the Gold Mountain" for an opportunity to bring wealth and fortune back home.
During these early days, the majority of the Chinese community kept a very tight lip to outside activities. Many did
not understand the English language and kept to themselves because it would not benefit them. The sole purpose is to
find employment opportunities and not to involve in other people's business. Unfortunately, this cause misunderstandings between the Chinese immigrants and their neighbors within the communities. The "elders were the leaders" in the Chinese communities and kept many of the concerns within the inner circles. Their visions was to keep the other younger men's emotions to a minimum so future generations would advance and populate this land of opportunities.
These early years Mr Louie (my father) would share many stories with our family during the dinner hour.This was always a favorite time when we can express our thoughts to each other. Discipline and respect was always expected from
family members during this time of nurturing our mind and body. Temperament was my weakness as I continued to have mental, physical and emotional behaviors. Mr. Louie would always bring me down to a sense of calm with his stories.
During these early days, the majority of the Chinese community kept a very tight lip to outside activities. Many did
not understand the English language and kept to themselves because it would not benefit them. The sole purpose is to
find employment opportunities and not to involve in other people's business. Unfortunately, this cause misunderstandings between the Chinese immigrants and their neighbors within the communities. The "elders were the leaders" in the Chinese communities and kept many of the concerns within the inner circles. Their visions was to keep the other younger men's emotions to a minimum so future generations would advance and populate this land of opportunities.
These early years Mr Louie (my father) would share many stories with our family during the dinner hour.This was always a favorite time when we can express our thoughts to each other. Discipline and respect was always expected from
family members during this time of nurturing our mind and body. Temperament was my weakness as I continued to have mental, physical and emotional behaviors. Mr. Louie would always bring me down to a sense of calm with his stories.
GM Ming Lum & GM Al Novak
The Fourth-in-a-Series, During the 1960's, a youthful John F. Kennedy (JFK) became the 35th United States
President (1961-1963). It has in history came to be known as "Camelot", a place of idealized beauty, peacefulness,
and enlightenment. Several special memoirs will be remembered as one-of-the-greatest gifts nature may have given to us. This era in time also introduced martial arts' giant icon GGM Al Novak. Along with JFK, they were shipmates during
WWII on the same PT-109 Boat. Also the beginning of the decade (1960's) brought to America, a young brash "Bruce Lee". This young man not only made a splash-on-the-scene, but also a tremendous impact in the chronicles of martial arts' history. The event of these happenings would be well documented in our American history for decades (1960s-1980s).
GGM Al Novak set the early stages for non-Chinese students to learn martial arts in the United States. Bruce Lee set the future for his contributions as he reached out to the movie industries with his messages to be "strong and proud".
Memorable Phrase " We Are Not Sick Men of Asia " speaks volume. . .
I draw your attention to my personal experiences and thoughts as I share my curiosity with my students and to the readers. The time frame was during my youth and some of the skills that I have benefited from that gave me confidence, focus, patience, pride, and trust as I progressed in martial arts. The first time I watched these special skills was from an 'uncle' going through his rituals and repetitive movements practicing T'ai Chi Ch'uan. The forms, movements, and patterns of his postures was exhilarating that it gave me a vision that was to be a large part of my martial arts' training. This is quite evident as I continued to be absorbed with these skills during my early days and years of practice.
Focus Practice Repeat with No Hindrance.
During my youth, an early opportunity to witness martial arts was at the Bok Kai Festival and Parade
(北溪慶會) in the City of Marysville, CA. It is an event held since the 1850s during the Chinese New Year activities. It is celebrated and honors Bok Kai Temple (北溪廟), the Chinese Water God, and to ward evil spirits and to protect Marysville from flooding. ie We have kept up with this Annual tradition since 1965 and would join my father to these special events.
A Gung Fu Master (Sifu) with special martial arts' skills was invited by the Chinese American communities known as the
" Hop Sing Tong 合勝堂 " & the " Suey Sing Association 萃勝工商會 " to perform as "special guest", to include a parade with "firecrackers", Traditional Chinese Lion Dancers and a 175 foot Mythical Dragon. They also participate in the burnt offerings as "good will ambassadors" to continue and highlight the traditional skills handed down from generation to generation. This was a time that only direct family members would be given the opportunity to learn extra ordinary martial arts. Also, it should be noted that alliance and secrecy was kept to the most trust worthy "family association member".
President (1961-1963). It has in history came to be known as "Camelot", a place of idealized beauty, peacefulness,
and enlightenment. Several special memoirs will be remembered as one-of-the-greatest gifts nature may have given to us. This era in time also introduced martial arts' giant icon GGM Al Novak. Along with JFK, they were shipmates during
WWII on the same PT-109 Boat. Also the beginning of the decade (1960's) brought to America, a young brash "Bruce Lee". This young man not only made a splash-on-the-scene, but also a tremendous impact in the chronicles of martial arts' history. The event of these happenings would be well documented in our American history for decades (1960s-1980s).
GGM Al Novak set the early stages for non-Chinese students to learn martial arts in the United States. Bruce Lee set the future for his contributions as he reached out to the movie industries with his messages to be "strong and proud".
Memorable Phrase " We Are Not Sick Men of Asia " speaks volume. . .
I draw your attention to my personal experiences and thoughts as I share my curiosity with my students and to the readers. The time frame was during my youth and some of the skills that I have benefited from that gave me confidence, focus, patience, pride, and trust as I progressed in martial arts. The first time I watched these special skills was from an 'uncle' going through his rituals and repetitive movements practicing T'ai Chi Ch'uan. The forms, movements, and patterns of his postures was exhilarating that it gave me a vision that was to be a large part of my martial arts' training. This is quite evident as I continued to be absorbed with these skills during my early days and years of practice.
Focus Practice Repeat with No Hindrance.
During my youth, an early opportunity to witness martial arts was at the Bok Kai Festival and Parade
(北溪慶會) in the City of Marysville, CA. It is an event held since the 1850s during the Chinese New Year activities. It is celebrated and honors Bok Kai Temple (北溪廟), the Chinese Water God, and to ward evil spirits and to protect Marysville from flooding. ie We have kept up with this Annual tradition since 1965 and would join my father to these special events.
A Gung Fu Master (Sifu) with special martial arts' skills was invited by the Chinese American communities known as the
" Hop Sing Tong 合勝堂 " & the " Suey Sing Association 萃勝工商會 " to perform as "special guest", to include a parade with "firecrackers", Traditional Chinese Lion Dancers and a 175 foot Mythical Dragon. They also participate in the burnt offerings as "good will ambassadors" to continue and highlight the traditional skills handed down from generation to generation. This was a time that only direct family members would be given the opportunity to learn extra ordinary martial arts. Also, it should be noted that alliance and secrecy was kept to the most trust worthy "family association member".
Bok Kai Delegate lighting the Ceremonial Bomb
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Bok Kai 170+ft Dragon Re-Coils
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Bok Kai Gateway Passage to Water God Temple
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BoK Kai Temple burnt offerings
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Bok Kai 170+ft Dragon chases Evil spirits
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animated Choy Lay Fut practitioner
A Special Message from Si_Gung Thom W. Louie 师公雷泽鸿
on the Images & Modern Day Practitioners Page
on the Images & Modern Day Practitioners Page