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| The Center for Humane Living Newsletter |
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Contact
Sa Bum Nim Aly Tukan
alytukan@hotmail.com
Sensei Justine Wallitschek
Michelle Szymanowski
Sa Bum Nim Lisa Dado |
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The Center for Humane Living is a 501c3 not-for Profit organization that produces solutions to societal breakdowns by implementing an innovative approach to martial arts education that integrates zen philosophy, life and relationship skills, and leadership development with the discipline of formal training.
Societal Breakdowns:
1. The disintegration of the family unit.
2. Out of control violence and bullying.
3. Unavailable quality leadership education.
4. Lack of personal and global accountablility.
5. Ineffective relationship/conflict management skills.
6. Disregard for preventative health and fitness.
7. Disrespect for life and the environment.
8. Persistent poverty and famine.
9. Rampant prejudice and intolerance.
10. Undisciplined behavior and social choices.
The Vision of the organization is to inspire all people to live peaceful and compassionate lives while implementing a fully humanitarian agenda.
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 Welcome to the CHL Newsletter! The Center for Humane Living Newsletter is designed to provide information about the events of CHL, as well as the activities and outside achievements of the organization's students. If you have any noteworthy accomplishments you would like published in the next issue of the Newsletter, please contact Michelle Szymanowski at chl-michelle@cox.net. Acknowledgement to Sa Bum Nim Aly Tukan and Sensei Justine Wallitschek as the editors of the Newsletter. Student participation in the Newsletter Committee is welcome and encouraged, so please contact Sa Bum Nim Aly at alytukan@hotmail.com if you are interested in becoming part of the committee. Happy Reading!Sincerely,Sa Bum Nim Aly and Sensei Justine
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Camp Chaos 2011
Awaken the Hero Within!
by Sandi Orenstein
Imagine joining over 100 of your closest friends and family for a weekend back to nature in the beautiful Sitgreaves National Forest. A weekend filled with martial arts, Zen philosophy, family bonding, and so much more! Camp Chaos 2011 was nothing short of spectacular as we returned to Camp Shadow Pines for an amazing weekend.
This year's theme, Awaken the Hero Within, was portrayed through many avenues, starting with an amazing video that was written, filmed by, starred in, and directed by an amazing team led by Joe Bogushefsky. The video demonstrated some of the "12 Ways" to deal with bullying, a common theme throughout
the weekend.
Some new ice breakers and team challenges were added this year to help us get to know one another on a deeper level. Since many of our families attend different dojangs around the valley, we cherish opportunities like Camp Chaos where we can come together as one school and learn from new friends and new teachers alike.
The weekend was filled with everything from Art to Zen, with karate, self defense, sparring, kata, philosophy, and everything in between! A complete package that included so many opportunities to learn and grow on many levels.
A very special thank you to our amazing 2011 Camp Chaos Committee: SBN Bill Sapp, Sensei Noelle Francois, Dasan Eleff, Leanne Eleff, Maya Eleff, Amy Overlin, Drew Overlin, Samantha Overlin, Astrid Bojorquez, Liza Golden, Martha Mann, Nikki Erickson, Jennifer Ensley, Landon Biegen-Szymanowski, Michelle Szymanowski, Joe Bogushefsky, Mary Jezwinski, Madison Balk, Delaney Balk, Sam Balk, Sandi Orenstein, Tanner Orenstein, Zoe Orenstein, Derek Blayney-Moore, and Mark Blayney-Moore.
To learn more about Camp Chaos, or about how you can be a part of Camp Committee 2012, please contact Sensei Noelle Francois at 480.220.7559 or noelliebellie1@yahoo.com.
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"A hero is someone who understands the responsibility that comes with his freedom."
~ Bob Dylan |
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Black Belt Test
July 2, 2011 was a big day at the Center For Humane Living when the largest black belt test thus far took place at the Foley dojang. In total, fifteen students were promoted that Saturday. Now a 5th dan (Oh dan), Sa Bum Nim Bonnie Foley proved her strength by being the sole member testing for her rank. She wowed everyone for the first half of the test before being honored with a seat on the board. For the rest of the day, the fourteen other students toiled through the test. By the end of the day there were fourteen new promotions. New Sa Bum Nims Michael Foley, Therese Tukan, Natalie Tukan, Aly Tukan, Trevor Sapp, Allyson Sapp, Bill Sapp, and Eric Heath were all promoted to 3rd dan (Sam dan) after proving to us all, once again, how much they deserve our respect. Senseis Steve Erickson, Emily Sapp, and Lester Tukan all showed their determination and obtained their 2nd dan (Ee dan) promotion. Nathan Francois (Knowledge) and Justine Wallitschek (Individuality) became the newest black belts (Cho dan) after showing true perseverance in their first black belt test! Now who was the last student tested? Sa Bum Nim Dr. Foley was not only running the test, but had been taking his own test all day! He earned his well deserved 7th dan (Chil dan) by the end of the test! Thanks to all who came to the after party to celebrate their hard work and dedication to our school! And thank you to everyone who participated in this incredible event. We are so proud of our newly promoted teachers!
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"You gain strength... by every experience in which you do the thing you think you cannot do."
~ Eleanor Roosevelt |
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My Orange Belt Test
By Andrea Arrieta
There is so much I want to convey. Yet, where to begin? What to express? What are they expecting? What do I have to say? These are the things I have been thinking about since Sa Bum Nim Aly asked me to write a "short" piece for the newsletter about my orange belt test...
As I sit here, I realize the tension I experience, the pull created between all the things I am considering while attempting to write this, is exactly what my orange belt test was like for me. It wasn't just one experience. It was many. It was All of these things. It was both fast (demonstrate and move) and slow (wait while over 20 people tested). Physical and emotional/mental, challenging and dare I say easy, anxiety provoking and yet fun. A testing (of our abilities) and a learning (about myself, my daughter Grace, & the process). Smiles (seeing everyone there) and tears (not just mine). Energizing (we actually went to class afterwards at 24 hr fitness) and exhausting (I went to bed early that night). A brand new experience (my 1st test) to which I brought my old habits and fears.
It was an individual process (me & my stuff) and a group effort (encouraging each other as we tested & all the effort put in by everyone to make the test possible). All about me (what I've learned) and all about CHL (all of these people volunteering their time, working together as a community). High notes (feeling strong during my Kata) and low notes (small & slow with my nemesis spinning back kick). A beginning (the path to becoming a black belt) and ending (I am no longer the new person at CHL). Being in the present moment and completely distracted. Questions (what do you like about karate?, what have you learned) and answers (I love how CHL fits with everything else in my life, with my beliefs, I've learned I have a bigger ego than I thought).
It was evaluation (of myself & by the board) and support (from my fellow testers & the board). Concern (what's this process going to be like?) and gratitude (for CHL, all the hard work that went into the test, & Grace's principal for introducing me to Sa Bum Nim Lisa Dado). Worrying (about Grace & what the process would be like for her) and being so proud (of her ability to just enjoy the day free of worry & to remind me to stop worrying & just relax). My ego with something to prove (to myself, to others, to Grace) and a sense of nothing to lose. Nervous physically and calm mentally. A full overflowing cup and at times emptied. A separation (sometimes on my own) and joining (this is something that everyone at CHL does). Striving for my best, fearing my worst and ultimately surrendering and accepting whatever it is and will be.
For ALL that it was, is and will be for me I just
want to say Thank-you! And, believe it or not I look forward to more tests in the future for both me & Grace.
Congratulations to these newly promoted students: Yaniv Golden, Tanner Orenstein, Emily Lewis, Ally Bolden, Dominick Nardone III, Grace Arrieta, Alex Palmer, Gabriella Hernandez, Alex Pissas, Alan Pissas, Sydney Palmer, Jesse Abbit, Maria Beram, Kim Clark, Josh Bogushefsky, Joshua Beram, Christian Hernandez, Jordan Abbit, Andrea Arrieta, Steve Abbit, Lisa Fujii, Mitchell Bogushefsky, Audrey DeHaven, Joey Bogushefsky, Julie Rogers, Mike McIlwee, Richard Dixon, and Dave Bost. Great job!
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Upper Rank Test
by Sensei Kelly
On September 10th a belt test was held at the Erickson Dojang. The test was extremely well written and well run! Congratulations Sa Bum Nim Natalie Tukan on such a well written test. Congratulations to Senseis Nathan and Justine on running the test. We were able to end early because of the efforts of both of you!
This was my second opportunity to serve on a testing board and it was both an honor and a humbling experience. I'm always amazed to see the growth in the students with each testing opportunity. Each student is faced with the task of managing their emotions and fears in order to perform their best.
Throughout school, testing is a normal activity. But for adults, testing with the risk of failure is far less common. It can be extremely intimidating to subject yourself to a board of black belts whose sole job, for the next 4 hours, is to challenge you to do things you might not know how to do - and to watch your every move as you struggle to do it!
When you accept the challenge of testing, what are you really doing? You're allowing yourself to be vulnerable and open to criticism. You're allowing yourself to discover how far you've come. And you're giving yourself the opportunity to learn from those that came before you!
The only way we grow is through feedback. Sometimes the feedback is positive and encouraging. Sometimes the feedback is constructive. Either way, feedback is the key to your growth.
Following a test, what feedback do you give yourself? Do you leave the test replaying everything that you did wrong? Do those thoughts stay with you into your evening, weekend and maybe the next week? Do those thoughts creep back in when you're asked to perform in class a month later? We're human and of course it is common for us to focus on what went wrong. But, I'd challenge you to spend more time thinking about all of the things you did well.
Congratulate yourself for attending class and taking the challenge to test. Pat yourself on the back for trying that kata you've never been formally taught. Celebrate that you took that punch and kick and didn't breakdown, run away or panic and freeze. As you assess these physical feats, remember your oral exam because it is here where you'll discover how much you've really learned.
As you continue on your path, you'll start to discover how you handle conflict more effectively and how that has impacted your life. You'll start to realize that you are reflexively thinking about the world and your life choices differently. You'll start to uncover your own personal bullies. And, you'll be more equipped to fight them with confidence and grace!
Enjoy your journey - accept the invitation to test!
Congratulations to these newly promoted students: Kellen Bradley, Nathan Mann, Alexa Nardone, Ryan Bolden, Carolyn Clements, Lisa Sandoval, Dominick Nardone II, Andy Goldstein, Martha Mann, Zoe Orenstein, Delaney Balk, Joe Bogushefsky, Madison Balk, Zeke Bolden, Lisa Nardone, Carrie Lewis, and Jonathan Mann. Great job!
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Gateway/Kennedy Belt Test
Congratulations to our new CHL orange belts who tested on October 10th. Karla Felix, Salvadore Rodriguez, Diana Thies, Juliza Garcia, Kevin Hernandez, and Brandon Garcia.
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Health Article
by Sa Bum Nim Eric
My Black Belt Project is to publish articles in the CHL Newsletter on how we can all take more responsibility for our own health and wellness. My passion is in reading science related nutritional, genetics, epigenetics, environmental toxins, including electropollution, and food history articles, among other closely related sciences and how these things present us with never before experienced environmental pressures that then lead to chronic conditions, such as allergies and diseases. I majored in Organismal Biology and Ecology at ASU and spent more than two years working in a genetics lab on the ASU West campus. I have also worked fairly hard for the last 7+ years or so at walking the talk; what I write about is what I strive to do in my own life.
Healthy Living- Say No to GMOs
Do you know if the food you purchase for yourself and family is genetically modified or not? This is just one important question to ask yourself about the products that you consume if you are interested in improving your health and wellbeing.
If I could suggest just one action that we could all take to improve our health and well being, it would be to avoid genetically modified foods. The American Academy of Environmental Medicine (AAEM) states, "There is more than a casual association between GM foods and adverse health effects." One such "adverse health effect" is that GMO foods have been shown to reduce the fertility of animals in studies to the point of sterility within just three generations.
AAEM calls for a moratorium on GM foods: http://www.aaemonline.org/gmopressrelease.html
The institute for responsible technology states, "Genes inserted into GM soy, for example, can transfer into the DNA of bacteria living inside us, and that the toxic insecticide produced by GM corn was found in the blood of pregnant women and their unborn fetuses. Numerous health problems increased after GMOs were introduced in 1996. The percentage of Americans with three or more chronic illnesses jumped from 7% to 13% in just 9 years; food allergies skyrocketed, and disorders such as autism, reproductive disorders, digestive problems, and others are on the rise." http://www.responsibletechnology.org/ http://www.aaemonline.org/gmopost.html.
Science is beginning to understand that environmental pressures have profound implications on DNA and human health. GMO foods and drink are just one form of environmental pressure.
Avoiding GM foods in the United States is difficult. There currently are no laws requiring that a food label state whether a product contains one or more GMO ingredients or not. Unless you are eating a food that specifically states on the label that it contains no GMO ingredients, you are likely eating them, particularly if you consume processed food. Many sources report that well over 70% of all foods found in our grocery stores today contain one or more GM ingredients. With the top four GM foods being Soy, Canola, Corn and Cotton, it becomes easy to understand why when reading labels.
In addition, organics are being increasingly contaminated with GM genetic crossover, known as lateral or horizontal gene transfer. Making matters worse for human health is that commercial livestock practices most commonly use GM grains to feed their livestock. This affects the quality and form of proteins and fats produced by the animal for human consumption. Given free choice, livestock will avoid GM foods. Are they smarter than we are?
If you would like to reduce your intake of GM foods in an attempt to improve your health, especially if you suffer from food allergies, and\or other chronic conditions that could be caused, or exacerbated by GMO foods, take the time to check out a few web sites, such as the AAEM and The Institute for Responsible Technology referenced above, along with The Organic Consumer's Association, http://www.organicconsumers.org/
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"Happiness is not a state to arrive at, but a manner of travelling."
~ Margaret Lee Runbeck
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Sweet Tomatoes Fundraiser
by Alexa Nardone
On October 5, 2011 we had our first Sweet Tomatoes dinner fundraiser which was initiated and organized by Alexa Nardone.
It all started with a conversation with her mom and dad when they were out to dinner as a family at Sweet Tomatoes.
Alexa's dad noticed a flyer in the restaurant regarding fundraising and said that this would be a great event for CHL to get involved in.
The next day Alexa took the initiative (encouraged by her mom and dad) to look into the program and asked her dad for assistance in preparing the application on behalf of CHL.
Alexa not only took the initiative for this fundraiser, but she also designed the wording of the brochures and encouraged her family members to come to the event.
The total number of people who attended the event totaled 47, which was a fairly good attendance. Based on the total amount that was spent by our participants the Sweet Tomatoes Organization will donate to CHL 20% of the proceeds. This is not including the $300 in Scrip that was sold that night by Janice Wallitschek, for which CHL receives an 8% donation.
No matter how large an event is, it was a really nice family gathering for everybody that attended, and Alexa looks forward to coordinating another similar event again very soon!
Thank you to those who attended, and thank you to Alexa for taking the initiative.
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CHL Authors: Books Available
Ancient Wisdom for Life Fulfillment
Dr. Michael R. Foley, M.D.
Ancient Wisdom for Life Fulfillment by Dr. Michael R. Foley, M.D. is a book of Zen Philosophy that bridges Ancient Wisdom and western thought together, interconnecting these two seemingly unrelated worlds. Dr. Foley focuses on applying age old concepts to fully discover one's consciousness, presence, groundedness, and peace in everyday interactions, relationships, and situations. Each vignette has a message/question(s) to ponder and examine, which allows the reader to seek possibilities that liberate oneself and foster a rich, fulfilling life through consciousness. This amazing quick-read book is available for purchase by contacting Sa Bum Nim Lisa at senseidado@aol.com.
Ki Inspiring Thoughts: Developing a Generation of Honorable Warriors
Steven M. Erickson, M.D.
Ki Inspiring Thoughts was published to inspire all people to live peaceful and compassionate lives through the use of Zen stories, object lessons, martial arts philosophy, and ancient wisdom to explore universal truths and values. The goal is to inspire readers to embark on a journey of personal transformation through mindful self introspection in order to maximize personal potential. We are confident that this process will enhance relationships, improve self-esteem and mental toughness, promote leadership, and result in healthy character development. Join me on this journey. The only way I can achieve my goal of reaching more people and truly having a positive impact on the world is for all of us to be willing to live our lives more mindfully and with purpose and in turn share these thoughts and ideas with others. I challenge you today to share one or more of these messages with the people in your life whom you want to inspire. To purchase a copy visit http://kiinspiringthoughts.com/KITbook.php
The Pinocchio Principle: Becoming the Leader You Were Born to Be
Diane M. Bolden
In times of massive change, it is more important than ever for each of us to tap our inner reserves of wisdom, creativity, and resilience to rise up to the challenges and opportunities that face us as individuals, organizations, and communities. The Pinocchio Principle is a roadmap to help you get back to the basics of who you are, what you are here to accomplish, and how you can leverage your best and worst experiences to lead authentically- regardless of your vocation, title, or role. Drawing from her experience as an executive coach and using Pinocchio as a metaphor, Diane Bolden guides you through a process of learning to integrate your head with your heart, utilize your intuition, challenge your limits, and move out of your comfort zone to unearth your greatest work while inspiring others to do the same. The Pinocchio Principle blends wisdom with inspiration and humor and includes numerous stories and examples of personal and professional transformation as well as practical tips and tools that will help you become a true leader to others in the only way possible: by first leading yourself. For more information or to purchase a copy, visit www.PinocchioPrinciple.com.
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Saturdays at 24 Hour Fitness
Scottsdale
Thank you to SBN Donna for these photos, which were taken at a Saturday 24 Hour Fitness class in Scottsdale.
Gregory Stuart and Fern Freitas learn a one-step from Sensei Janice.
Sensei Nathan and Alexa Nardone practice kicks.
Sensei Mark teaches Dave Bost a reverse punch.
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Besides excelling in karate classes, many members of our school are also shining outside our program. Congratulations to the following students, who have shown their dedication and talent both in and out of the dojang.
Sa Bum Nim Bonnie's Marathon
Sa Bum Nim Bonnie Foley ran (and finished!) the Chicago Marathon on October 9, 2011. This was her second marathon. She was cheered on by her fan club that consisted of her dad, mom, and fiance, Jay. She credits her performance and endurance over the 26.2 miles to 9 months of intense training and a huge piece of turtle cheesecake the night before the race (which, she might add, was nothing compared to Sa Bum Nim Allyson Sapp's delicious cheesecake). Way to go!
Sa Bum Nim Michael's Track Award
Sa Bum Nim Michael Foley got 1st Round Pick in the AZ Track and Field Team for 2012. He also has been invited to compete in Australia at the National West Central Conference Track and Field Team in the summer to 2012. Congratulations!
Sa Bum Nim Aly's Beading Award
Sa Bum Nim Aly Tukan entered a beading contest sponsored by her local bead store, in which competitors were to make a piece of jewelry designed after the theme "Christmas in July." SBN Aly was the Grand Prize winner for her bracelet entry, and was awarded a $50 gift certificate to the bead store. Below is her bracelet along with its description.
"Christmas in July" blends holiday spirit with the vibrancy of summer days. "Cinnamon candy" beads spice up the strands with warmth and a seasonal presence. Rich emerald green accents are smattered throughout as a tribute to wintry pine trees. Lighter, more playful green tones nod to traditional, while incorporating a fun, lighthearted summer feel. Imitating December's turquoise birthstone, aqua is a reminder of both swimming pools and frosty weather. Sparkling crystals evoke the magic of the holidays. Clustered dangles at the clasp symbolize the closeness of family during vacations and are the tree-topper of this bracelet.
Sa Bum Nim Natalie's Triathalon
Sa Bum Nim Natalie Tukan raced in her first Olympic distance triathalon in Rye, New York with the Boston University Triathalon Team on September 25, 2011. The race was a 0.9 mile swim, 25 mile bike, and 6 mile run. Even though she crashed a mile into the bike, she kept going and finished with a time of 2:48:16 (and then got bandaged up at the medical tent!) There aren't any more triathalons on the East Coast until the spring, but Natalie will definitely continue racing!
Zoe Orenstein in the News
Zoe Orenstein was featured in an article in the Arizona Republic on October 1, 2011. Below is the beginning of the article, in which the Orenstein family is quoted.
Kids enjoy learning to cook at Kosher Culinary Club
At 8 years of age, Zoe Orenstein of Ahwatukee says she loves to cook.
A third-grader at Tempe's Center for Educational Excellence, Orenstein confesses her cooking prowess to date has consisted of preparing chicken nuggets for her 5-year-old brother Tanner, but she dreams of one day becoming a chef. That's one reason she enrolled in the Kosher Culinary Club at the Chabad of the East Valley in Chandler.
Meeting monthly except during October, the club offers children an opportunity to cook a different dish or dessert at each Sunday afternoon session.
The menus vary in difficulty and are often paired with upcoming Jewish holidays, such as September's "Apples to Apples," which dealt with the two-day festival of Rosh Hashana- the beginning of the Jewish New Year. The children made candied apples signifying the desire for a sweet year.
The connection between holy days and the foods prepared in class is appreciated by parents such as Sandi Orenstein, Zoe's mom.
"The class not only gives them an opportunity to try different things, but tying them into the holidays helps make them more meaningful for them," said the 10-year Ahwatukee resident.
To read more of the article visit:
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Announcements and Upcoming Events
SBN Eric's Cranberry Sauce Sales
By SBN Eric
My family has traditionally considered Thanksgiving Day as one of, if not the most important holiday of the year for friends and family. A day of thanks, a day of gratitude. Every year it has been my tradition to make cranberry sauce for my family's Thanksgiving meal. This year, I have chosen to share my tradition of making cranberry sauce with everyone as a fundraiser for our school.
Pint jars cost $6
Quart jars cost $10
The gross total collected will go to CHL.
Ingredients: filtered water, along with organic sugar and spices.
I plan on preparing the cranberry sauce on November 11th, and then distributing it to all those who have ordered at classes Saturday the 12th, through the last day of class before the big day. To those who miss class, I will make every attempt to deliver the product by Wednesday, November 23rd.
To order, if you have not already done so, or if you would like to add to your order, please send me an email at eheath@yahoo.com or sign up for a jar or three in class when you see me.
In service to you,
SBN Eric
2nd Annual 5K Walk for Peace
Join CHL for the 2nd Annual 5K Walk for Peace:
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Eldorado Park
2311 N. Miller Road
Scottsdale, AZ
Walk time 9:00 am
On-site registration begins at 8:00 am
All community members are welcome, so be sure to invite friends and family. If you have any questions, contact John Francois -- 480.502.2369. Looking forward to seeing you there!
CHL Holiday Party
Come to the Francois residence for an evening of delicious food and fun company! The Francois family has generously offered to host the holiday party again. This is a great way to meet CHL students from other dojangs. Mark your calendar for December 17th. More details forthcoming.
Scrip Gift Card Fundraiser
An invaluable fundraiser for CHL, Scrip is available for a multitude of businesses. We have a wide variety of scrip on hand, and all new orders are placed regularly. You, the student, purchase gift cards from participating businesses in various denominations at the regular retail price. CHL will receive a rebate check based on the total amount of gift cards purchased by students from the three contacts below.
Please see the CHL website for a comprehensive list of participating businesses and to determine the percentage each company donates to our school. Reloadable cards are indicated on the order form. The beauty of the program is that it requires no additional spending by our students and families, yet it allows CHL a constant influx of funds to defray costs associated with facility fees, uniforms, etc. More detailed information is available on the website. Please support our school!
Scrip contacts:
Janice Wallitschek (Foley Dojang/24 Hr. Fitness) at dallyce@cox.net or 480.223.3326
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Thank you for your continued dedication and support of The Center For Humane Living!
Sincerely,
Sa Bum Nim Aly and Sensei Justine
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"Sow an act, and you reap a habit; sow a habit, and you reap a character; sow a character, and you reap a destiny."
~ George Dana Boardman
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Advertisements
Would you like to have a business card or advertisement featured in the next newsletter? Contact Sensei Aly at alytukan@hotmail.com. Advertisements cost $10 per issue, and all proceeds benefit the Center for Humane Living.
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