Washington Black Belt Academy-Redmond

Free Martial Arts

2010-07-27T16:33:00.001-07:00

Check out our website at:

http://www.wablackbelt.com/

KickAThon HIT

2009-11-10T13:10:00.000-08:00

Most of you have probably read our Facebook Posts or emails about the KickAThon we had on Saturday, but I wanted to take a moment here to thank each of our participants individually.
As a group, Washington Black Belt Academy did over 155,000 kicks during the 2 hour Super Session. Our students are learning how to use what they have, or what they can do, to help others that are less fortunate; in this case Seattle Children's Hospital. We had over a dozen people show up from our Redmond Academy and kick for this worthwhile charity. I want to thank the following individuals for their effort:
Jim Gale
Alex Gale
Matt Ortiz
Daphne Smart
Ailey Butler
Ryan Butler
Todd Butler
Delane Waterbury
Hope Ryan
Sharon Sim-Rozee
In addition, the Iboshi family pledged their support even though they were unable to attend personally. Kyle even donated his own money.
Heartfelt Thank You to all of you.
Once all the donations are collected and counted we will personally take them all to Children's Hospital. I look forward to announcing how much money we were able to raise.

Mr. Andrews

Kick-A-Thon. Will YOU help raise money for Seattle Children's Hospital?

2009-10-05T14:04:00.001-07:00

Helping Community- By supporting a good cause

Solidifying Leadership Training – Real life skills and life lessons taught to students

Details at the Academy!

Knife Throwing Seminar

2009-09-21T09:42:00.000-07:00

We had a lot of fun on Saturday at the Renton Academy learning how to properly throw knives and throwing stars. Here are some pictures for those that couldn't make it.

Getting Ready. We put up boards, foam and targets to give something to aim at, and to protect the walls.

Mr. Ortiz in action.

Oooops, still need more practice!

Looking Intense....

Well, no one can hit the target EVERY time.......

What should you bring to class to drink?

2009-09-08T14:17:00.000-07:00

Although the human body is composed of 55 to 60 percent water, we actually have very little to spare. Whether you train on a regular basis or not, fluid replacement is essential. In addition to regulating body temperature, fluids serve as solvents for minerals, vitamins and other nutrients; lubricate joints; act as shock absorbers around the eyes and other organs; carry nutrients around the body and fill cells and the spaces between the cells.

Because fluids are so vital to our well-being, it is absolutely essential to replenish any fluid lost during strenuous exercise. Everybody is probably aware that sports drinks are recommended after or before exercising because of the electrolytes that they replenish your body with. Electrolytes are minerals – sodium, potassium, chloride, magnesium and calcium – which, when dissolved in body water, help regulate some essential body processes. When we sweat during vigorous exercise the body loses electrolytes, that is the theory behind reaching for that sports drink after your workout. Research has shown that while it’s true that some electrolytes are lost in sweat, most short-term and or recreational activities do not require extra supplementation because the losses are easily replenished at the next meal or made up for by adequate mineral intake in the overall diet.

Sports drinks may give you an extra boost of energy and may be of value for athletes participating in events of long duration, such as a marathon, or for workouts lasting longer than two hours. However, if your workout is of shorter duration and your chief goal is to replace fluids lost through perspiration, and you don’t want the additional calories plain, cold water is still your best choice.

Get Unstuck

2009-09-04T07:16:00.000-07:00

OK, I didn't write this article, but received it via text. It is about getting out of a "rut" so to speak. How many of us have found ourselves wanting to make a change of some kind and can't explain why it appears to be more difficult then it would seem? Here are some tips that may help.

If you find yourself stuck, perhaps it’s time to explore the reasons why. With some simple self-exploration you can pinpoint the areas of your life that require change. It may require you to leave your comfort zone, but in the end you’ll likely find that it was all worth it!

It’s also important for you to build an action plan. If you stay organized and follow a simple plan of action step by step, there will be nothing that can stop you from achieving your goals.

Here are some ideas that can get you on your way to getting unstuck:

1. Set Up Accountability. When you hold yourself accountable and keep a close eye on your goals, you’ll be better able to identify when you’re stuck in a rut. The first step is to really figure out why you’re feeling stuck in the first place.

2. Set A Time Goal. You’re stuck and you’d like to be unstuck, but chances are you’ve been putting off working toward your goal. You’ve already decided to make yourself accountable and now it’s time to give yourself a time limit – so do it!

3. Be Not Afraid. Being afraid of change is one of the biggest reasons why you get stuck in the first place. Perhaps you’re feeling trapped in your job and, in order to get the job you’d like, you have to go back to college. You need to get over your fear and see what you need to do to apply. You’ll be happy you did when you land your dream job someday.

4. Look For Role Models. Find someone who has been through your situation or something similar and see how he or she was able to overcome obstacles. If possible, ask this person questions.

5. Change Your Thinking. It’s true: your actions first start as thoughts. When you think positive and brave thoughts, you’ll be motivated into action!

6. Take Time. Remember to take some time for yourself to collect your thoughts. You may discover some insight into how to solve your challenges. Make sure you’re completely alone with your thoughts without any distractions.

Taking Action

It’s easy to remain in your “stuck” situation because it’s familiar and you know what’s going to happen. You might even feel safe. However, eventually the dissatisfaction you feel will take over and you’ll realize that the only way to get “unstuck” is to take immediate action to change.

Make the Change

Once you choose your timetable, you’ll want to break down your changes into small steps. Track your progress and tweak your system to make sure your changes are making a difference.

For example, if you’re feeling stuck in a relationship, you’ll first evaluate where you think the concern lies. Perhaps you aren’t communicating effectively. If so, you can set a timetable of three months to overcome this challenge.

You can then break down the problem into smaller steps by reading a book on communication, talking about it with your partner, or attempting counseling sessions. As you go through these actions, you’re constantly keeping a close eye on how it affects your relationship.

In the end you have a firm decision about your relationship’s progress and you no longer feel stuck. If you hadn’t taken action, it’d be impossible to improve!

Repeat the Process

Once you’ve applied this system to one aspect of your life, you can use the same strategies whenever you’re feeling stuck. Whether large or small, there are always actions you can take to break through barriers!

WBBA Camping

2009-08-31T09:21:00.000-07:00

After returning from our camping trip on Saturday afternoon I have now had a day and a half to reflect on the experience and want to share what sticks out in my mind about the 1st Annual WBBA Camping Retreat.

There are many more pictures posted on the Redmond Academy's Facebook page (search Facebook for Instructor Andrews and add as friend) but this is my chance to share my thoughts in words.

The weekend was chalked full of training, both fitness and Martial Art, as well as time to relax a little and strengthen the bond between members of our Martial Art family. I can't say enough about how proud I am of everyone's effort through all of it. Just as one quick example, each morning started off with a 3.2 mile run up on side of the "mountain" and back down the other. I literally walked around the camp site shaking tents at 6:00am waking everyone up. We were running a few minutes later - it wasn't an easy run. The leader(s) took about 45 minutes to complete, and some took close to an hour and a half. EVERYONE completed the run each time.

There were other physical challenges too, plyometric exercises, a "Boot Camp" workout as well as Martial Art Training. I saw a lot of effort from everyone who participated. (Even some of the parents joined us).

I was even more proud of the way that we helped and looked out for one another. Thank you Mr. Ortiz and Ms. Smart for helping Miss Dolan with her transportation and other needs. Thank you Sara for taking a leadership role in helping with some of the younger kids that were there. We had one unfortunate circumstance where a mother had to leave camp early, but her son was able to stay and finish out the weekend due to our student's willingness to step up and make sure he was taken care of. We shared food, blankets and even clothing and extra tents with each other when needed.

The site and weather couldn't have been better either. With the exception of a surprising number of bee's, I am not sure we could have asked for better conditions.

Finally, thanks to Master Chung for helping set up and lead the weekend. I can't wait until next year when we get to do it all over again.

Pictures of our hike up Mt. Rainier

2009-08-23T21:20:00.000-07:00

More Pictures

2009-08-23T21:09:00.000-07:00

Applying what you learn in class

2009-08-17T13:45:00.000-07:00

Becoming a Black Belt is about learning how to balance training in martial arts with our daily lives. Following is a guideline that can help you apply the life lessons you learn at Washington Black Belt Academy.

Modesty

Courtesy

Integrity

Compassion

Gratitude

Perseverance

Self-Control

In Martial Arts

You don’t “show off” and are humble about how far you have come with your training. You realize there is always more to learn.

You treat all students and Instructors with great respect and politeness.

You are honest with all people and your personal work ethic. You’re true to yourself and always do your best.

You always see the positive and encourage others, no matter their skill level.

You’re thankful to your teacher and fellow students for helping you improve.

You have a “Yes, I can!” attitude that never leaves you and you always get back up when you are knocked down.

You strive to live by the Student Creed and maintain physical and emotional balance.

In Life

You don’t brag about your accomplishments, physical, social, or academic.

You are considerate & treat others the way you like to be treated.

You’re honest in your effort and always do your best to keep your word.

You’re sensitive to the feelings of others and try to see their point of view.

You thank your family and friends who help you and always show appreciation.

You are not a “quitter”. You see things through. No matter what the odds, you keep working hard, striving to succeed.

You remain even-tempered even when under great stress.

I hope these thoughts have enlightened your day! See you in class soon!

What a Fun Super Session!

2009-08-10T15:06:00.001-07:00

I just wanted to share a few pictures from Saturday's Super Session. After a good hard warmup that got everyone's blood pumping, we focused on a system of self defense called CDT (Compliance, Direction, Takedown) - if you want to know what that is.......you should have come on Saturday!

Here are some pictures!

Ms. Daphne Smart easily handling her boyfriend Mr. Ortiz with a pressure point manipulation. Tap quick Matt!

Who's the boss in this household?

Ahhh..payback!

Home School Workshops

2009-07-27T11:39:00.000-07:00

We are doing 2 separate 1 hour workshops aimed at Home Schooled Children of the Redmond area. These workshops are free and open to any Home Schooled student 5 years of age and up.

Tuesday July 28th – 1pm-2pm

Thursday Aug. 6th – 11am-12pm

If you are a Home School Family, or know someone who may be interested, please call the school to sign up. (425) 869-6600

Thank you Ms. Yanira Gale for helping set up and organize these workshops. Her son Alex is a star student here at Washington Black Belt Academy!

Feel The Heat

2009-07-20T07:21:00.000-07:00

10 WAYS TO BEAT HEAT EXHAUSTION

In the high heat of the summer, especially when you are exercising, your body temperature starts to climb. Your body has its own way of dealing with this problem. It sweats! Depending on how high your temperature begins to rise again, the sweating returns. This sweat-evaporate-sweat cycle can happen many times a day.

But watch out! If you push yourself too hard on really hot days, you can become very sick. You may have:

cool, clammy, pale skin
a dry mouth
a weak, tired feeling
a headache
dizzy spells
muscle cramps
nausea, and sometimes vomiting

All of these signs may mean you are suffering from a problem known as heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion happens when your body loses an unusual amount of water and salt, mostly through sweating. (Ever noticed how sweat tastes salty?) If you notice the signs of heat exhaustion, get out of the heat, sip some cool liquids, and let an adult know. You should probably be seen by a doctor.

Luckily, it takes time for heat exhaustion to develop, and it can be prevented.

Learn to:

· Get out of the sun right away if you show any signs of heat exhaustion.

· Avoid exercising at the hottest times of the day, usually between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. in the summer.

· Shorten your exercise periods in temperatures higher than 82 degrees Fahrenheit.

· Drink water, or sports drinks if you are sweating a lot.

· Drink lots of liquids, even before you are actually thirsty. Don’t gulp, sip!

· Avoid staying in closed, hot places.

· Avoid caffeine; it speeds up fluid loss.

· Try to cool off if you are feeling very hot.

· Wear loose-fitting clothing in natural fabrics, like cotton, so sweat can evaporate.

· Wear a shady hat with vents.

Remember, the sun is a powerful thing. Use sunscreen, drink lots of fluids, and watch out for your friends and family! Stay cool!

”To train or not to train”

2009-07-06T22:32:00.000-07:00

Here is an article that I came across the other day. Hopefully it helps you make some informed decisions!

Reasons to keep your child home from martial arts class:

Pinkeye

Ringworm

Chicken Pox, Measles, etc

Flu and other airborne illnesses

Head Lice, Scabbies

Feverish

Poison Ivy

Some conditions are serious enough to warrant staying home and missing class. Be sure to call the school and leave a message explaining any absence so the instructor can plan for future lessons.

Reasons to bring your child to watch class, but not participate:

Bad behaviour in school or at home

Injuries (Broken bones, stitches, etc)

Muscle strains or joint sprains

Bronchitis

Students who watch but do not participate can be motivated to return to classes quickly. For this reason, it can be a useful vehicle for correcting behaviour outside of the academy. Some ailments are not serious enough to warrant missing the class, but may limit participation. Students who come to watch when they cannot participate can still experience the lessons of the day and stay up to date on the material covered.

Reasons to participate with special precautions for your child:

Asthma

Diabetes

Hypoglycemia

ADD/HD and other Behavioural Disorders

Irregular Heartbeat

Hepatitis/Blood borne pathogens

Previous neck or back injuries

Extruding Xyphoid Process

Near-Sightedness

Certain conditions require special precautions to avoid injury or complications. It is important to notify the instructor if any of the above conditions are present, so the appropriate steps can be taken to allow the student to participate, as some of these conditions can affect the safety of your child and the other class participants.

Thank You.

Stay safe,

Mr. Andrews

A few random pictures from classes

2009-06-29T13:49:00.001-07:00

Take it for what YOU think it's worth

2009-06-23T10:57:00.000-07:00

I stumbled on this page the other day and wasn't sure whether or not to take it seriously, or to laugh at it. One of the things we should respect is the fact that different people have different view points on thing and some topics may be very serious to some, and laughable to others.

Personally, I have thought that I pretty much avoided getting swept up in the "Go Green" craze that seems to becoming more and more prominent...though even I have been caught with a "Go Green" coffee cup in my small fuel efficient car. Ha Ha Below is actually a Blog post from simpleology.com referencing a website and it's Blog on "Going Green" Like the title of this post says - Take it for what you think it's worth. I am curious to know your opinion though - feel free to share it with me.

Mr. Andrews

________

If your goal is to make sure that every aspect of your life is ecologically sound, then the Little Green Blog is sure to be your favorite one-stop online resource center.

The blog has got everything covered with its five main content categories: Family and Food, Green Tips, Mind and Spirit, Health and Wellness, and Green Home. It even has a repository of all sorts of information and articles discussing green living.

The blog draws in more members by its interactive approach. For those who are new to the concept of being green, there are fun do-it-yourself projects (such as growing your own tomatoes and other vegetables) that you can try out.

To wit, the Little Green Blog makes it very easy--and very enjoyable--to be green.

Washington Black Belt Academy Day

2009-06-19T09:11:00.001-07:00

King County Proclamation

WHEREAS, Washington Black Belt Academy has been teaching Martial Arts in Renton since 2003, with campuses currently located in Renton WA, Redmond WA, and Edmond OK;

WHEREAS, the ultimate goal of the Washington Black Belt Academy is to empower all of its students to become over-achievers, honorable, and respectable members of the community; and

WHEREAS, in addition to teacher Martial Arts, the Washington Black Belt Academy volunteers at local schools to teach bully prevention, setting goals, healthy living, and life motivation; and

WHEREAS, the Washington Black Belt Academy also makes a positive contribution to the community through hosting and sponsoring fundraisers including the World Visions, “Hunger Crises Fund” and the Rays Foundation; and

WHEREAS, the Washington Black Belt Academy is committed to teaching core values and instilling morals in our next generation;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kurt Triplett, Executive of Martian Luther King Jr. County, do hereby proclaim, Friday, June 12, 2009, to be

WASHINGTON BLACK BELT ACADEMY DAY

In this great county. I encourage all county residents to join me in thanking Washington Black Belt Academy for its outstanding contributions to the well being of our youth and local communities.

Kurt Triplett
King County Executive

Graduation May 30th

2009-05-19T10:29:00.000-07:00

All your hard work is about to pay off!

It is time for your next BELT PROMOTION!!!

May 30th at 6:00 at Tyee Middle School in Bellevue. It is the same location as our last graduation.

Checklist for Graduation:

Do you have all your color stripes (yellow, green, red, black, and blue for those doing Poomses)

Do you have enough White stripes to qualify?

If not, be sure to see Mr. Andrews for a way to make it up!

Have you completed and turned in your graduation forms?

parent evaluation

teacher evaluation

essay

graduation fee

For the Master's CLub and Leadership students - make sure you know your weapons combos and forms!

If you need directions, let me know!

I am curious as to who is reading these Blog Posts. If you read this, let me know in class and you (or your child) will receive a special "Awesome Star" for their uniform!

Be Your Child’s Success Coach

2009-04-27T15:00:00.000-07:00

As Many of you know Master Chung and I spent the Weekend at our Oklahoma Academy doing some training and some seminars. One of the seminars was directed at parents with some parenting tips, ideas and success stories. Below is part of what went on at the seminar and I thought it was worth sharing with everyone here. Let me know what you think!

Be Your Child’s Success Coach

There are countless great books for parenting available at any bookstore in the country. Although there are various styles of parenting out there, if your goal is to raise your child to become a confident, healthy, happy, and contributing member of society, then pretty much all of the experts would agree with the following guidelines.

1. Love them unconditionally. Never let them forget that, regardless of what they do or where they go, you will always love them.

2. Constantly catch them “doing things right”. This will reinforce appropriate behavior and it is the right thing to do.

3. Give them choices, not ultimatums. Whenever possible make sure they have options to choose from. For example “Would you like to do your homework now or in twenty minutes after you’ve rested? “

4. Pick your battles. Pope John Paul II said “See everything, overlook a lot, correct a little“ If you want to create distance between you and your children then the easiest way to do so is to nit pick them.

5. Public praise, Private reprimand. Avoid disciplining your child in front of others as it is extremely humiliating.

6. Never compare. Very few things will lower a child self-image faster than comparing them negatively with other siblings or friends.

7. Set boundaries and stick to them. Everyone in the house should know what the rules are and what the consequences are for breaking them. Be firm but fair.

8. Inspire them to greatness. Constantly affirm them, believe in them and let them feel their potential. Never make them feel foolish for dreaming big.

9. Be easily in awe. There is nothing more important, especially with young children, then to be impressed when they’ve done something well and are seeking your approval.

10. Don’t speak out of anger. It is natural to lose your temper from time to time. But…Beware of what you say when your Self-Control is gone. If you don’t watch your words, chances are they will come back to bite you later.

Where are you?

2009-04-12T21:55:00.000-07:00

Where are you - where do you want to be?

I spent some time this weekend thinking about this cycle's curriculum and how we are almost half way through it!

-How are those Hand Techniques?

-Do you remember your Kicks? Can you preform them?

-Are you comfortable with your Self-Defense moves?

NOW THINK BIGGER!

-How are your personal goals? Have you set some recently - do you have a clear picture on what you are trying to accomplish, or help your children accomplish? (have you written them down?)

-Do you remember to keep your "Black Belt Attitude". Remembering that a Leader thinks of other before thinking of their own interests. Are you helping your children keep this perspective?

-Are you comfortable with what you are settling for? Are you "good enough" or always striving for GREAT?

At Washington Black Belt Academy it is our goal to build leaders. Leaders that have the confidence and morality to positively influence the lives of others.

“A leader leads by example, whether he intends to or not.”

A Martial Art Challenge

2009-04-08T12:27:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the best ideas are ones we get from others......below is taken from Master Chung's Blog, but I thought it was worth reposting here.

Are you in/taking Martial Arts or ARE you a MARTIAL ARTIST?

This last week we have been talking about a little bit of over-achieving. Most people try their hardest to be good, but not willing to go the extra mile that it takes be become GREAT. So to my students of WASHINGTON BLACK BELT ACADEMY I offer you this challenge:

BE A MARTIAL ARTIST, DON'T BE IN THE MARTIAL ARTS.

I see a lot of students daily and they are try their hardest to become better in their health, defense, discipline, etc, but now my challenge is to take that outside the Dojang walls.

Do we act the same at work or school, with our parents or kids, at Starbucks, or even alone? My goal is that is someone would to look at you they would think that there is something "different" about you. That you are a little more Respectful or Disciplined. A little more Kind or Helping. You go out of your way to put a smile on someones face or to help someone in need. Let's be Martial Artists who also practice the martial arts.

2009-03-30T13:08:00.000-07:00

This week at the Academy:

This week is Self Defense AND Personal Bests!

Monday and Tuesday we will introduce your new Self Defenses!

Wednesday and Thursday are the 1st and 2nd of April, so you all know that that means! Let’s see if we can improve our scores from last month…it’s time for PERSONAL BEST TESTS!

Leadership Super Session is this Saturday, from 5pm-7pm at the Redmond Location. Master Chung will be there teaching a GREAT Leadership class. Come prepared to Sweat and Learn!

See You All In Class!

Mr. Andrews

What a week

2009-03-29T17:20:00.000-07:00

Well my voice made it, (barely), but I had a blast teaching PE Classes at Alcott Elementary last week. Here are some pictures that I took on Saturday during a class that I invited the kids from Alcott to:

Alcott - Here I come!

2009-03-24T07:03:00.001-07:00

I am spending this week, 3/23 through 3/27 teaching PE classes at Alcott Elementary. It's a chance for me to get in front of almost 700 kids that I don't even know!

Good thing I have confidence and belief in what I am doing, huh?

Yesterday was a blast - 11 PE classes pretty much back to back from 9am until 3:30. I hope the kids in the class had as much fun as I did!

I've done the same thing at Ben Rush Elementary, and am looking to set something up at Muir Elementary for later in the year!

Let me know if you want me to come to your school!

Feedback Request

2009-03-15T23:20:00.000-07:00

I am curious what everyone thought about graduation. Both the event itself as well as the location.

Use the "comment" link below this posting and let me know what YOU think. (requires a google ID), or on our Facebook page (search Instructor Andrews) where you can always leave your thoughts, let me know in person, or send me an email (jandrews@wablackbelt.com).

Thanks for the feedback!

Thank You

2009-03-15T22:08:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone enjoyed graduation as much as I did. I was proud of everyone that participated and thought that we all looked good. Thank you for your hard work and Black Belt attitudes!

I also wanted to be sure to thank all of you that volunteered both before and after the ceremony helping us get everything set up and taken down. It was quite a bit of work getting all the mats taken apart, transported and put back together, not to mention the certificates framed, the belts organized and labeled, people at the doors...etc...etc..etc..

Its nice to see us come together in multiple ways on a single night to pull off an event like that. Thanks again!

Oh yeah, and to those of you who donated to the charity at the door - THANK YOU too...I will be getting a list and setting up those private lessons!

See you all in class!

2009-03-09T11:59:00.000-07:00

Black Belt Test &
Belt Graduation

Tyee Middle School
In the Gymnasium

13630 Allen Rd

Bellevue, Washington 98006

425-869-6600 (Washington Black Belt Academy Phone)

Google Map Link
(Click Here)

Belt Graduation is just around the corner!!! Make sure to note the location and get ready to watch our Spring Black Belt Test.

Graduation starts at 6pm and doors will open at 5:40pm. Please make sure to not to be too early but allow adequate time to warm up and stretch. Doors will not be open prior to 5:40pm.

Feel free to invite any friends, family, teachers, co-workers, neighbors, mailmen, pastors, and anyone else you might know to the event. It's always more fun to show them what you have been learning.

If you are inviting any guest please feel free to forward this email to them so they also will have directions and times for the event.

Master Chung

Mr. Andrews

Join Our Mailing List!

New Site for New Students

WWW.WABLACKBELT.INFO

This Week in Class

2009-03-05T21:47:00.000-08:00

Lots of hard work in class this week. Between everyone preparing for graduation, and the Personal Best Tests on Wed and Thurs, I got to see students "strive and thrive". Below are some pictures from this week...there are more on our Facebook page. If you haven't seen it yet, just search in Facebook for Instructor Andrews.

Thank you everyone for all the hard work you put in this week. Just one more to go before graduation.

Oh - I took some video during classes too - check back here in a day or so and see what I caught...I also let a student or two use the camera during class...I am pretty curious what footage they got!

Student of the Month

2009-03-01T13:28:00.000-08:00

Congratulations Mr. Alex Gale

Because of his constant hard work, never ending energy, and excellent Black Belt Attitude, Mr. Alex Gale has been selected for this months Student of the Month!

Alex is not yet 5 years old, but he has completed his yellow belt training, including learning his very first Poomse, (E Jung) and is preparing to test for his Orange Belt at our upcoming graduation.

Even though he is one of our youngest students Alex is a leader on the mat. He sets a great example for anyone else looking to set their goal for Black Belt Excellence. As one of our newest Master's Club students he looks forward to continuing his training and moving up to longer classes when he achieves his Green Belt this summer!

Below are some more pictures of Alex working hard displaying his Black Belt Attitude.

Always focused and intense!

Alex even inspires his sister!

What a kick!

Happy Birthday Mr. Landon Halverson

2009-02-28T19:18:00.000-08:00

We do Birthdays.....just ask Landon!

Getting ready to blow out the candles

Preparing to run the Gauntlet!

Landon and some of his closest friends helped celebrate his birthday at the Academy on Saturday. Landon turned 8 years old and wanted to share his Taekwondo experience. Thank you Landon for bringing your friends and family!

We had a blast with our stances, kicks and drills to test our Focus, Perseverance and Respect!

If you would like to celebrate your Birthday with Washington Black Belt Academy ask Mr. Andrews how!

What's Up Next

2009-02-23T14:32:00.000-08:00

It's been awhile since I have written here, but I wanted to keep you updated on what's going on at Washington Black Belt Academy.

Graduation is coming, Sat. March 14th at 6:00 pm It's sure to be an exciting event as our Renton Academy has several students testing for their Black Belts. There is even someone testing for their 3rd Degree!

Graduation forms are due back by the end of the week! Be sure to have your parents and teachers fill out their evaluations.

We've stayed busy here in Redmond - lot' s of new students trying out classes.

I taught a week's worth of PE classes at Ben Rush Elementary - that was a BLAST! I got to meet a whole bunch of kids that have never had the opportunity to try out Martial Arts, and also got to work with some that have some experience. I hope I get a chance to do it again, both at Ben Rush as well as at other schools in the district.

I am going to start posting our Student of the Month here on our Blog, so check back to see who it is on March 1st!

Let me know if your reading this - send me an email jandrews@wablackbelt.com and I will be sure to send you something in return!

November In Review

2008-12-03T09:56:00.000-08:00

What a month November was!

Our Helping Hands month went great - all month long students found new ways to help out at home and at school and were rewarded in class with recognition and getting a hand to put up on the wall. It is amazing how many different ways we found to help out - For example: held door for all my classmates, volunteered for lunch duty, helped mom fix dinner, cleaned up the house when mom hurt herself, stayed after school to help teacher clean up - any many many many more!

We had our food drive and donated almost 100lbs of food to Hopelink. Thank you everybody.

Washington Black Belt, along with Kicksafe, put on Women's Self Defense classes at both our Redmond and Renton locations. These classes were free to all women and had good attendance at both schools!

As November ended we are preparing for our next graduation in just a couple of weeks. Students are bringing in their graduation forms complete with parent and teacher evaluations and I love seeing how well our students are doing outside of the Academy. 2008 is coming to an end with a big bang and it excites me to think about what we will accomplish in 2009. Thank you everyone - keep up the good work!

Helping Hands Month

2008-11-04T14:10:00.000-08:00

November is our Helping Hands Month at Washington Black Belt Academy!

Part of having a Black Belt Attitude is to think of others ahead of yourself. Others can be people in your family, like brothers, sisters and parents, people you know outside of your family, like teachers, neighbors and friends, or it can be people that you don't even know.

As part of our Helping Hands theme we are doing a canned food drive all month long. Donating food is a way of helping other people less fortunate - people you don't even know! Leaders are always looking for ways to help make other people better - by teaching our children that not everyone has the same opportunity they do, and that we should do what we can to help, we are not only teaching kindness and respect, but humility as well.

In addition to our food drive we will concentrate on what we can do as individuals to help others in our daily lives. Already students have given examples of helping their teachers with things at school; holding the door for others when they are out in public; helping "mom" at home with additional chores. I am excited to see all the ways our students come up with helping out in the next several weeks.

As part of this program, as well as a continual effort to have a positive influence in our Community, I will be hosting a free 2 hour Women's Self Defense Workshop on Nov. 22nd. This is open to all women (adults only please) who thinks they would benefit from some safety tips and training. Tell your friends and family and call to sign up. Space is limited, so call and reserve your spot! 425-869-6600.

Kidnap Prevention Workshop

2008-10-20T10:24:00.000-07:00

What a great event we had at the Academy on Saturday. Families from the school as well as concerned families from the community came by to learn how to keep their children safer. We reviewed some statistics, practiced some defensive techniques and discussed dozens of safety tips.

Everyone walked away with a child ID Kit, other safety materials and a few good ideas to implement.

Next month we will be hosting a Women's Self Defense Class on Nov 22nd. Space is limited to call to RSVP a spot if you are interested. (425) 869-6600

Kidnap Prevention

2008-09-16T12:54:00.000-07:00

On Oct 18th Washington Black Belt Academy will host a kidnap prevention workshop. Along with King County Police we will distribute important information, safety tips and a FREE child ID kit that every parent should utilize.

A quick look at the statistics is startling; every 40 second a child in the United States in abducted or reported missing. That translates to over 2,000 children per day (under 18 years of age) or 800,000 per year.

The rate of reported missing children in the United States is 11.4 per 1,000 (Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, National Incidence Studies of Missing, Abducted, Runaway, and Thrownaway Children, October 2002; National Crime Information Center)

Please help spread the word about this FREE Community Event scheduled for Saturday Oct. 18th at both the Redmond and Renton Academies. More info to come!

Back In The Swing Of Things

2008-09-10T10:11:00.000-07:00

Now that it is September we all feel ourselves getting back into a more usual routine. For the most part, that is a good thing, BUT don't let the comfort of the "same 'ole same 'ole" limit what you can accomplish.

Use this time of year to set some goals, start something new, or challenge yourself in a new way.

Her at the Academy, for instance, we are implementing our Academic All Star Challenge. It's a chance for students to take the next 60 days and dedicate themselves to improving learning skills that will put them at the top of their class. We believe that the knowledge they will acquire through participating will be far reaching, benefiting them for years to come.

Among others, this Challenge will address areas such as: TV restrictions, reading requirements, homework, diet and sleep goals.

Already many students at both the Renton and Redmond schools have opted to challenge themselves and reach these lofty goals. With the help of parents, teachers and instructors I am confident that everyone will succeed.

Congratulations to all of those that have already begun this challenge and I extend an invitation to anyone who hasn't yet started to try and make this a part of your daily life.

Back To School Time

2008-08-21T13:13:00.000-07:00

You have been waiting all summer for it right? Are you all ready to go back to school and make it your best year ever? Washington Black Belt Academy is looking to help you do just that.

We are having a Back To School Workshop held at our Renton location on Sat. September 6th from 4pm-5pm. Topics will include Public Speaking, Time Management and Success Training.

Call either the Renton or Redmond location for details!

Renton - 425-793-9607

Redmond - 425-869-6600

I wanted to share

2008-08-07T15:41:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while (although it's happening more and more frequently) something happens to remind my why I do what I do, and why I love it so much.

I don't want to risk embarrassing anyone so I am going to be intentionally vague, but in the past 7 days I have been approached by 3 separate students/parents who wanted to take the time to just say "thanks" for the difference we are making in their lives. Whether it be simple reinforcement of rules or behavior, opening young eyes to new ideas or a better way of viewing things, or helping students feel like they are bettering themselves physically, we ARE changing lives for the better. I see it, parents see it and students see it. Even those that are too young to see it now will look back on their experience at Washington Black Belt Academy later in life and see how it helped shape who they are.

Martial Arts continues to help me grow as a person in all areas of my life. I am convinced that the patience and dedication that I learned and grew in the Martial Arts helps me out as a husband and father in those moments that test ones patience. I think I am a better influence on those around me, and am more willing to accept challenges head by viewing them as an opportunity to learn.

How will my training and dedication help me next? How could it help you?

Back To School Already?

2008-08-01T10:03:00.000-07:00

Here it is, August 1st already and the end of the summer is already near. By end of summer I mean that we are already starting to get ready for a new school year. I couldn't believe it when I was walking through a local department store and saw all the "Back To School" sales....in JULY!!!

Students at Washington Black Belt Academy will find that we are doing many things to help you prepare for the new school year. We have opened up our Monthly Leadership Super Session to all students (this Saturday, August 2nd 5pm-7pm at our Redmond location), we will be doing a reading contest as well as a referral contest to help you earn BACK TO SCHOOL MONEY.

Summer has been great, and continues to be so. I am looking forward to seeing some students who have been vacationing, as well as introducing them to the many new students who have joined our family this summer.

Congratulations to all of those who earned their next belt at our graduation last week. Our next graduation is already scheduled for Oct. 4th. It will be one of our two yearly Black Belt graduation, so get ready to participate and see some of your fellow students test for their Black Belt!!!

Oh what a weekend

2008-07-21T02:14:00.001-07:00

It's almost graduation time again, which is an exciting time in the school. I love seeing the growth in students as they progress through their belts.

As rewarding as it is to see techniques getting better, I am the most fulfilled by seeing how students are becoming better in other areas of their lives. During this last cycle alone I have had several parents take the time to mention how training has helped out their children's behavior at home. I've had adult students tell me how they are losing weight, and feeling better about themselves. I've seen Leadership Skills developing in students who I know will be great Assistant Instructors in the near future. New students are trying classes and seeing these developments as well. I feel so blessed to live a life doing something I love and seeing it's positive effects on those around me.

Friday night we had a Knife Throwing seminar for adults and Black Belts students. Imagine a room full of people with anxious to hurl a sharp bladed object across the room! Because of the discipline and respect that we all had for each other, the night was a huge success. Everyone had a lot of fun, learned a lot, and we had exactly ZERO incidents of any kind of injury!

I am looking forward to other fun and educational seminars that we will put on for students of all ages and belt ranking levels.

Derby Days!

2008-07-16T16:16:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone from the school who helped out at Derby Days either by manning the booth, helping out with the Demos or just stopping by to say hi.

Derby Days was a blast and a great day to talk to a lot of people from the Redmond Area about trying out Martial Arts for their family. It was hot - and the day got really long - but we persevered and were able to make it a really great day!

For those of you already attending classes, remember to introduce yourself every time you see someone in class you don't know. Remember - THEY are looking up to you!

Summer Vacations

2008-06-29T22:55:00.000-07:00

This weekend I was thinking about my students who have gone, or are going on vacation in the next few weeks and how they can take what they learn in class with them.
Although it may not be practical to think that vacationing students will practice their Push Kicks and Back Stances while basking in the sun, or preforming their Poomses in their hotels rooms across the country, I hope that the Life Skill lessons we learn in class are practiced and by Adult and child students alike.

For example:
Long car rides can test the patience of both parents and children. Remember how your patience is tested in your Martial Art training and apply it to those trying moments.

I can think of seveal ways that your respect, confidence, and Black Belt Attitude will be put on display while vacationing. I can't wait to hear all the stories as everyone gets back from their vacations!