| It's More Than Just Karate! |
2008 NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE
2007 NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE 2006 NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE |
|||
|
The Girls Inc Dojang conducted a Gup Graduation this past December.
Instructor: Master Rita Hubbard |
|
|
The Stratford Dojang conducted a Gup Graduation this past December.
Instructor: Master Chris Sansonetti |
 |
|
The Lakewood Trumbull YMCA Dojang conducted a Gup Graduation this past December.
Instructor: Master Dave Deguzman |
 |
|
The West Haven Dojang conducted a Gup Graduation on December 13, 2008.
Instructors: Master Tony Melo & Mrs.Jennifer Melo |
| White/Orange/Blue/Purple/Green Belt Graduation: | Red Belt Graduation: |
 |
 |
|
The Danielson Dojang conducted a Gup Graduation on December 10th.
Instructor: Master Daryl Laperle |
 |
 |
|
The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Waterbury conducted a Gup Graduation on December 8th. Presiding over the grading was Grandmaster Cheezic. 3rd Dan Susan Matthews, 1st Dan John Braker and 1st Dan Tammy Champagne also attended the graduation.
Instructors: Master Rita Hubbard, 4th Dan & Mr. Michael Cavallaro, 3rd Dan Students who Graded |
|
The USA Martial Arts Woodbury Dojang conducted several belt graduations on December 6th. Lisa Bambino received an invitation from Grandmaster Cheezic to grade to 1st Dan Black Belt. Instructor: Master Wilke Pictured Left to Right, Top to Bottom: Little Ninjas (ages 3 & 4), Kid Kicks (ages 5 & 6), Juniors (ages 7-12), Lisa Bambino |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
The Oxford Dojang conducted several Ninja & Gup Graduations in December. Instructor: Amy Cote |
 |
|
 |
|
 |
| On Friday November 21st, Grandmaster Cheezic conducted a Black Belt Graduation at the Waterbury Boys Club. Eleven students were promoted to 1st Dan Black Belt, Ten students were promoted to 2nd Dan Black Belt and one student was promoted to 3rd Dan Black Belt. Everyone performed exceptionally well (nothing less than exceptional was expected). Congratulations to all the students who graduated and to our newest Black Belts....Welcome to the Inner Circle!! |
 |
|
The Following Students were promoted to 3rd Dan Black Belt: Alijah Nutley #1287 - West Haven The Following Students were promoted to 2nd Dan Black Belt: Nancy Valine #1608 - Warren Kelsey Kosarko #1641 - West Haven Kristine Reilly #1696 - West Haven Alicia Gizzi #1766 - Naugatuck Stephanie Braker #1769 - Naugatuck Michael Gizzi #1770 - Naugatuck David Blain #1773 - Danielson Lynn Shemick - Foster Christina Trahan - Danielson Andrew Shemick - Foster The Following Students were promoted to 1st Dan Black Belt: Amber Jablowski #1939 - Wallingford Danielle Struble #1945 - Wallingford Corey Martovich #1974- Oxford Rick Valine #1975 - Warren Grace Kenner #1976 - Ansonia Kia Tellier #1977 - Foster Katie Payton #1978 - Danielson Kirsten Owens #1972 - Hamden Timothy Smith #1973 - Hamden Peter Atwood #1979 - Woodbury Jenny Nichols #1982 - Woodbury |
| Many of us Martial Artists always wonder where to get the best boards, how to store them, how to cut them. Well we are about to reveal one of Master Harold Lindo's (SCSU Instructor) top secrets to purchasing and cutting boards....Instructors, take good notes! MASTER LINDO'S SEVEN STEPS FOR BOARD PREPARATION 1. The Key is "FRESH". 2. Be sure to understand #1. 3. Purchase your boards 30 minutes prior to the Gup Graduation. 4. Be sure you have a portable saw. 5. Cut the boards, just before the Graduation is scheduled to begin. - this will ensure ultimate freshness 6. Do it yourself! Don't trust a student to cut the boards...they make cut them too soon in advance. 7. Keep a nice size trash can around to catch the saw dust. As expected, every one of Master Lindo's students broke their boards on their first attempt!! The key is "Fresh". Per Master Lindo, "fresh boards break better". Thanks to Master Lindo for sharing these valuable board secrets with the rest of us. Stay tuned next month, for a sneak peek on the CCSU methods of board preparation. |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| The University of Connecticut Dojang held a Gup Graduation on November 12th.
Instructor: Mr. Ian Lee |
Back Row: Master Doug Wilke, Grandmaster Robert Cheezic, Ian Lee, Stephen Corbo, Sean Leitch, Katelyn Guerrera, Alexander DeFrancesco, Master Kenneth Fish Front Row: Christine Barbieri, Jacob Ramos, Paul Butler, Sean Collins, Ethan Shipley |
| AMAC Foster, RI. held a gup graduation on Oct 23, 2008. Thirty four students were promoted to higher gup ranks. Two students were promoted to Apprentice Blackbelt: Bailey Braga and his brother Hayden Braga. Instructor: Master Saucier |
 |
| On October 17th, Grandmaster Cheezic conducted a Masters graduation at Federation Headquarters. Three Blackbelts were awarded the rank of 4th Dan Master: Kim Janak #610, Lynda Thorton #740 and Rita Hubbard #1015. Congratulations to these fine women on achieving this special rank. |
|
| The Saint Louis University Dojang brought a team to the Tom Sawyer Karate Championships in Hannibal, MO on October 18th. The women in the club did very well placing 1st thru 4th in sparring and forms competition. Instructors are 3rd Dan Chris Beardsley and 3rd Dan Jamie Mize. |
|
| The USA Martial Arts - Naugatuck Dojang conducted a Little Ninjas grading on September 25th. |
|
| On Friday September 19th, Grandmaster Cheezic conducted a Black Belt Graduation at the Waterbury Boys Club. Twenty-Eight students were promoted to 1st Dan Black Belt, Twelve students were promoted to 2nd Dan Black Belt and Two students were promoted to 3rd Dan Black Belt. Everyone performed exceptionally well (nothing less than exceptional was expected). Congratulations to all the students who graduated and to our newest Black Belts....Welcome to the Inner Circle!! |
 |
|
The Following Students were promoted to 3rd Dan Black Belt: Russ Webb - Woodbury Nancy Coutu #1425- Danielson The Following Students were promoted to 2nd Dan Black Belt: Steven Cote #533- Oxford Richard Egan #1589 - Cape Cod Christian Fredurra #1682 - Cape Code Joseph Egan #1690 - Cape Cod March Gaudin #1691 - Cape Cod Heather LaBracque #1733 - USA Naugatuck Robert LaBracque #1732 - USA Naugatuck Lorraine Dunn-Laranetto #1748- Roxbury Sarah Dean #1888 - Danielson Richard Roncarti - Headquarters Joshua Adams - Danielson Lori Damon - East Hartford The Following Students were promoted to 1st Dan Black Belt: John Cappiello #1942 - Wallingford Christopher Cappiello #1943 - Wallingford Steven Radomski #1944 - Wallingford Brian Murray # 1946 - Wallingford Mitchell Steinquist #1947 - Wallingford Stanislaw Widomski #1948 - Hamden Alex Burnham #1949 - Bridgewater James Francis #1950 - Bethlehem Emmanuel Menneson #1951 - Bethlehem Anne DiPietro #1952 - Bethlehem Samson Mifflin #1953 - Oxford Ryan Peter #1954 - Woodbury Alex Peter #1955 - Woodbury Stephen Ligus #1956 - Danielson Richard Robinson #1957 - Stratford Brey Jackson #1958 - Stratford Elizabeth Nagy #1959 - Stratford Claudia Resenberger #1960 - Stratford Lenny Kovalik #1961 - Stratford Nick Kovalik #1962 - Stratford Aryn Clayton #1963 - Stratford Sarah O'Connell #1964 - Stratford Quasem Alajjan #1965 - Stratford Anthony Ramadei #1967 - Lakewood Trumbull Ryan Norton #1968 - Lakewood Trumbull Arielle Norton #1969 - Lakewood Trumbull Carissa Lueth #1970 - Danielson Michael Costello # 1971 - Cape Code |
| On Sunday, September 14, the Demo Team from the Institute of Martial Arts Wallingford put on a presentation at the Wallingford Rod & Gun Club. The demonstration included forms, weapons, weapons self defense, traditional breaking and fire breaking. |
 
|
| The Wallingford Dojang conducted a Gup Graduation on Saturday September 13th. Instructors: Master Lyne Landry & Master Harry Needham. |
Grandmaster Cheezic Demonstrating the effectiveness of the Federation One-Steps with Mr. Bailey:  |
Master Tony Melo & Master Joey Barbera of the West Haven Dojang ventured off to New York City to compete in Breaking Divisions at the Twin Towers Classic on September 6th. The Breaking divisions were sanctioned by the USBA/WBA. Master Barbera broke a new USBA/WBA World Record, breaking 9 boards with a side kick in Men's Heavyweight competition. Tournament Results:
|
|||||||||
|
The West Haven Dojang conducted a Gup Graduation on Saturday August 16th. Instructors: Master Tony Melo & Mrs. Jennifer Melo  
|
|
The Boys & Girls Club of Watebury conducted a Gup Graduation on August 11th. Instructors: Rita Hubbard 3rd Dan, Michael Cavallaro 3rd Dan Asst. Instructors: Jena Rowland 3rd Dan, Catie McClure 2nd Dan & Stephanie Braker 1st Dan 
Students who graded: Red Belts: Andre Sommerville, Kevoy Sommerville, Kyle Reid Green Belts: Tremaine Days, Shamir Johnson, and Kathryn Brand (froms Girls Inc) Blue Belt: David Thomas Orange Belt: Tatyana Rosetta Apprentice Orange Belts: Taylor Rosetta, Isaiah Cruz, Cheyenne Cruz, Nathanael Costello, Christian Costello, Samira Johnson Also in attendance: Grand Master Cheezic, Sue Mathews 3rd Dan (missing from picture), Neal Mascola 2nd Dan, Laura Bellemare 1st Dan, John Braker 1st Dan |
|
The USA Martial Arts Warren Dojang conducted a Gup Graduation on August 8, 2008. Instructor: Master Doug Wilke 
|
|
The USA Martial Arts Dojang conducted their "Mommy & Me" Grading on July 17, 2008. The "Mommy & Me" class is for 3 & 4 year olds and a parent training together. Instructor: Mrs. Susan Leeper 
|
| Federation Members competed at the U.S. Open on July 4th & 5th, held at Walt Disney World's Coronado Springs Resort in Orlando Florida...the largest and most prestigious Martial Arts tournament in the world. Competitors included: from Federation Headquarters, Miss Stephanie Braker; From West Haven, Master Tony Melo, Master Joey Barbera and Mrs. Jennifer Melo. |
 | |
 |
 |
| Master Tony Melo | 1st Place | Power Wood Breaking Light Weight (Elbow) |
| 2nd Place | Power Wood Breaking Light Weight (Hand) | |
| 4th Place | Power Wood Breaking Light Weight (Foot) | |
| Master Joey Barbera | 1st Place | Power Wood Breaking Heavy Weight (Hand) |
| 2nd Place | Power Wood Breaking Heavy Weight (Elbow) | |
| Mrs. Jennifer Melo | 2nd Place | Traditional Forms |
| 3rd Place | Elite 8 Traditional Forms |
On Saturday, June 14, the Demo Team from the Institute of Martial Arts put on a show at the Masonic Grand Master's Day in Wallingford. The team is led by captains Jessie Simpson and Christopher Bailey. Tang Soo!
Pictured Below: The team's littlest member, Steven Broun, makes quick work of bad guys Chris Cappiello and Chris Bailey! 
|
| Its all about Girl Power!..no boys allowed at this Dojang. The Girls Incorporated Dojang of Waterbury held a Gup Graduation on June 12th. Ten students graduated. Instructor is 3rd Dan Ms. Rita Hubbard. | |
 |
|
|
The Boys & Girls Club of Watebury conducted a Gup Graduation on June 9th. Instructors: Rita Hubbard (3rd Dan) and Michael Cavallaro (3rd Dan) 
Students who graded: Red Belt: Mykaela Milonas Apprentice Red Belt: Andre Sommerville, Kevoy Sommerville, Kyle Reid Green Belt: Shaina Martin Blue Belt: Carlos Soto Apprentice Blue Belt: David Thomas, Jaden Lawrence Orange Belt: Jade Jackson Apprentice Orange Belt: Tatyana Rosetta Also in attendance: Grand Master Cheezic, Sean Hale (1st Dan), Asst. Instructor Katie McClure (2nd Dan), Asst. Instructor Stephanie Braker (1st Dan), Asst. Instructor Jena Rowland (3rd Dan) Missing from picture:Susan Mathews (3rd Dan) and John Braker (1st Dan) |
Federation Black Belts headed to the 3rd Annual Excel Open in Terryville, CT on June 7th, hosted by Andy D'Amato. This tournament is part of the IPPONE circuit where many of our Federation members compete regularly. Master Mark Sawyer was awarded Grand Champion in Sparring at the tournament. Master Mark Sawyer is a 6th Degree Black Belt and is the head instructor of the New Hartford Dojang. Other students who took top places included Mr. Hinman, Mr. Bambino, Mr. Mascola along with some of Master Sawyer's students. Congratulations to Master Sawyer and to all competitors!!
 |
|
The USA Martial Arts Woodbury Dojang conducted a Gup Graduation on June 4, 2008. Instructor: Master Doug Wilke 
|
Nancy Miller (Ladies Auxilary) Navel Veteran Henry Miller, Susan Leeper, and Nia Purdy (Ladies Auxilary) posed for a picture at the New Milford Memorial Day Parade.
Nia is a green belt and student of the year with the New Milford Park & Rec. David & Susan Leeper are her instructors.
Nia presented the wreath to her father which he through into the river in Memory of the Fallen Naval Serviceman.
|
In the spirit of martial arts camaraderie, members of the Institute of Martial Arts attended a small tournament hosted by DeLeon's Shotokan Karate in Wallingford. Five schools, different styles, participated in this first ever "neighborhood" event. Proudly representing Cheezic Tang Soo Do were Hunter Stenquist, Jack Grube, Steven Radomski, Matthew Landry-McWilliams, and Anthony Diaz (not pictured). Master Landry was assisted by Kyle Landry-McWilliams.
|
| On Friday May 9th, Grandmaster Cheezic conducted a Black Belt Graduation at the Waterbury Boys Club. Twenty-Eight students were promoted to 1st Dan Black Belt and five students were promoted to 2nd Dan Black Belt. Everyone performed exceptionally well (nothing less than exceptional was expected). Congratulations to all the students who graduated and to our newest Black Belts....Welcome to the Inner Circle!! |
Click here for more pics
|
|
The Following Students were promoted to 2nd Dan Black Belt: Mark Smith - Warren Jessica Simpson - Wallingford Elaine Romano - Middlebury Caitlyn McClure - Naugatuck Ryne Griesgnauer - Naugatuck The Following Students were promoted to 1st Dan Black Belt: Robin Lelechinsky - New Britain Charles Baywood - Woodbury Jennifer Smith - Warren Xesenia Karas - Naugatuck Sean Hale - Naugatuck Javon Lopez - Naugatuck Wanda Mascola - Naugatuck Jonathan Bryant - Maine Kelsey Cummings - Maine Austin Lebeau Bennett - New Hartford Christopher Mazzacane - West Haven Tyler Toto - West Haven Adriana Spaziani - West Haven Lauran MacDonald - West Haven Rachel Petraccione - West Haven Ryan Balamaci - West Haven Newlyn Joseph - West Haven Josephine Ankrah - West Haven Tali Martinez - West Haven Joshua Amoro - West Haven Spencer Brunson - West Haven Tyler Yanosy - Hamden Kyle Owens - Hamden Alex Nelson - Hamden David Nelson - Hamden Tyler Shemick - Foster David Mihalides - Foster Anna Senay - Danielson |
|
On April 18th, Grandmaster Cheezic conducted a Master Black Belt Graduation.
Congratulations to these fine individuals in their perseverance and dedication to Tang Soo Do!!! |
| Mr. Carl Savoie #339 was promoted from 3rd Dan to 4th Dan Master Belt. Congratulations Master Savoie!! | Ms. Kaitlyn Saucier #671 was promoted from Associate Masterbelt to 4th Dan Master Belt. Congratulations Master Saucier!! |
 |
 |
|
| Pictured Left to Right - Front Row: Master Tony Melo, Master Jeffrey Albright, Master Hertz Knox, Master Steve Randolph, Master Kaitlyn Saucier, Master Todd Deutsch Middle Row: Master Paula Saucier, Master Ken Saucier, Master Ken Fish, Grandmaster Robert Cheezic, Master Dave Deguzman, Master Fred Klies, Master Neal O'Neil Back Row: Master Daryl Laperle, Master Joey Barbera, Master Carl Savoie, Master Schuyler Greene, Master Gary Guay |
| The Oxford Dojang performed a karate demonstartion on Saturday May 18th. The demonstration included a Break-a-Thon, to help raise funds to build a library in Oxford, CT. Below is the featured article from the Oxford Gazette. Instructor: Amy Cote Link to Article |
|
Hometown Publications : Oxford Gazette May 21, 2008 Think Spring! |
| Master Joey Barbera tied the knot with his fiance Kate Wallace this past Saturday. The ceremony and reception was held at the Farmington Club. Longtime friends from the Cheezic Tang Soo Do Federation were invited to join in the celebration. Congratulations Master Barbera!! |
 |
 |
| The Phoenix, Arizona Dojang conducted a Gup Graduation on Wednesday May 13th. Head Instructor: Bill MacDonald |
 |
 |
Lynda & Ed Thorton our proud to announce that they are the proud parents of a Baby Girl!! Kayleigh Grace Thornton was born on May 6th. Mr. Thorton is a 2nd Dan and Mrs. Thorton is a 3rd Dan and the head instructor at the New Britain YWCA.
|
| The Wallingford Dojang conducted a Gup Graduation on Saturday May 3rd along with 2 Little Ninja Graduations. Instructors: Master Lyne Landry & Master Harry Needham. |
 |
Congratulations to Wallingford's 4 new Apprentice Black Belts: Jack Grube, Victoria Hegedus, Kyle Landry-McWilliams, and Matthew Struble. |
|
|
Students from the West Haven & Wallingford Dojangs competed at the CT Shoreline Martial Arts Championships in Branford, CT on Sunday April 20th. The Tournament was part of the KRANE circuit and rated AAA.
 Pictured from Left to Right: From the West Haven Dojang: Ryan Balamaci, Jason Corn, Joshua Amoro, Rachel Petraccione, Jennifer Melo (not shown Mitchell Stenvquist from the Wallingford Dojang) Results: Jennifer Melo 1st Place Forms Jason Corn 2nd Place Weapons, 4th Place Forms Ryan Balamaci 3rd Place Sparring, 4th Place Forms, 4th Place Weapons Rachael Petraccione Weapons Finalist, Forms Finalist Joshua Amoro Weapons Finalist Mitchell Stenvquist 3rd Place Weapons, Forms Finalist |
The Central Connectictut State University hosted an Intercollegiate Karate Tournament on Saturday April 19th, followed by a CCSU/SCSU alumni tournament. College teams that participated included Central Connecticut State University, Southern Connecticut State University, Western New England College and Middlesex College of New Jersey.
 pictured above: SCSU Karate Team Results from the Southern CT State University Dojang: SCSU Advanced team fighting 1st place SCSU Advanced team fighting 2nd place SCSU Intermediate team fighting 1st place SCSU Advanced forms 1st place (Sam Diaz) 2nd place (Paul Wagner) Alumni Match Results: The CCSU alumni team comprised of Master Frank Capodicasa, Master Dave Deguzman and Master Lori Tyler came ahead in a close match against the SCSU alumni team comprised of a mixed team of Mr. Dan Welch (SCSU), Mr. Rob Librandi (CCSU) and Mr. Adam Chiara (CCSU). The next intercollegiate tournament is scheduled for Saturday May 3rd at Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven, CT. The tournament will start at 11:00am in Pelz Gymnasium. Federation Black Belts are asked to contact Master Todd Deutsch if they are able to assist in judging. |
|
The West Haven Dojang conducted a Gup Graduation on Saturday April 20th. Instructors: Master Tony Melo, Mrs. Jennifer Melo |
|
|
Ms. Krista Leeder, one of our very own instructors & 2007 Federation student of the year was recently honored in the Necasa 2008 Recognition Awards Ceremony program for the volunteer work she does in the community. Ms. Leeder trains at the Foster, R.I. Dojang.
Great job Ms. Leeder, may we all follow in your footsteps, we are proud to have you as one of our Black Belt instructors!!
|
White Belt students from the West Haven Community House Dojang attended a graduation on April 9th. Seventeen students were promoted to Orange & Blue Belts. Instructor: Master Tony Melo
 |
|
On April 4, 2008, Grandmaster Robert Cheezic was inducted into the Ocean State Grand Nationals Hall of Fame. The Ocean State Grand Nationals is promoted by Don Rodgrigues & Christine Bannon-Rodgrigues. Members of the Danielson & West Haven Dojangs where at the ceremony to show their support for Master Cheezic receiving his award at the OSGN Nighttime show. Congratulations to Master Cheezic!! Prior to the nighttime event, members from the West Haven and Southern CT State University Dojangs competed at the Ocean State Grand Nationals on Friday and Saturday. |
 |
 |
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
| Grandmaster Cheezic with Grandmaster George Pesare of Kaito Gakko Kenpo | Grandmaster Cheezic with fellow Tang Soo Do practitioner 9th DAN Pat Johnson, the choreographer & center judge for the "Karate Kid" |
Mrs. Susan Leeper, Mr. Dave Leeper & Mr. Anthony Bambino competed in the IPPONE circuit in 2007.
 The three Blackbelts attended most of the tournaments (probably 15 of the 22 tournaments last year). The CT Yankee Nationals held in October is just one of the tournaments on the IPPONE circuit. The photo exhibits the trophies they took home during the 2007 season, representing the Cheezic Federation in the IPPONE circuit. Mrs. Leeper and Mr. Bambino were finalists in the standings for the entire 2007 circuit. Anthony Bambino 2nd place overall Men's Black Belt Kata Division 2007 Anthony Bambino 2nd place overall Men's Black Belt Weapons Division 2007 Sue Leeper 3rd place overall Women's Black Belt Sparring Division 2007 Sue Leeper 3rd place overall Women's Black Belt Kata Division 2007 Dave Leeper placed 1st and 2nd in many of the tournaments throughout the season but missed some tournaments which ultimately affected his points in the standings for the year. Congratulations to Mrs. Leeper, Mr. Leeper & Mr. Bambino for their outstanding accomplishments in competition!! We are proud to have them representing the Cheezic Tang Soo Do Federation. |
|
White Belt students from the West Haven Community House Dojang attended a graduation on April 9th. Seventeen students were promoted to Orange & Blue Belts. Instructor: Master Tony Melo
|
| Members from the West Haven and Southern CT State University Dojangs competed at the Ocean State Grand Nationals at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Warwick, R.I. on April 4th & 5th. The tournament was part of the national circuits NASKA & KRANE. West Haven Dojang competitors included 3rd Dan Mrs. Jennifer Melo, 1st Dan Miss Kristine Reilly & Apprentice Blackbelt Ryan Balamaci. Southern Connecticut State University Dojang competitors included Fernando Gonzales, Sam Diaz, Dan Welch, Tia Joseph, Allison Kelly, Rafael Cordwell, Tanka, Sasha Williams. |
 |  |
| Pictured Left to Right: Kristine Reilly, Ryan Balamaci, Jennifer Melo | Pictured 1st row Left to Right: Fernando Gonzales, Sam Diaz Pictured 2nd row Left to Right Dan Welch, Tia Joseph, Allison Kelly, Rafael Cordwell, Tanka, Sasha Williams. |
3rd Dan Instructor Kim Janak, co-instructor 2nd Dan Robin Orlomoski from Colebrook Karate held a gup grading on March 25th. Students performed well and did and excellent job showing their skills. Thanks to Master Cheezic, Master Janet Grimes, Master Ken Fish, and Master Schuyler Greene for attending and participating.
 |
|
The New Hartford Dojang conducted a Gup Graduation on March 10th. Instructor: Master Mark Sawyer The following students graduated: Jake Allmendinger, Max Allmendinger, Colin Welcome, Jeremy Welcome, Lillian Shiller, Renee Zeffiro, Ben Rush, Pierce Campbell-Dowling, Emily Barnes, Sam Barnes, Lindsay Deschamps, Amanda Deschamps, Thomas Nagy, Warren Horton, Michael Dupre, Sam Barnes, Anthony Karvazy, Andrea Fluckiger, Braydon Fluckiger, Sam Beadle, Kelsay Beadle, Thomas Bastan, Jill Goldfarb, & Wayne Riley.  more grading pics here |
| Teams from several Dojangs ventured out throughout New England this weekend to represent the Federation at different tournaments. The Southern Connecticut State University Dojang brought a team to the Krane Tournament opener in Warwick Rhode Island. This tournament was rated AAAAAA. Members from the Lakewood-Trumbull and West Haven Dojangs attended Grandmaster Byrne's 2008 All Tang Soo Do Championship in Boston, MA. Read more below |
The Southern Connecticut State University Dojang competed at the Krane Karate Tournament opener in Warwick, R.I. on March 7th & 8th. The tournament was rated AAAAAA, the toughest rating in the Krane circuit. From the picture below with all those trophies, it looks like the SCSU team did very well! Congratulations!!!
|
Members of the Federation from the Lakewood-Trumbull & West Haven Dojangs ventured off to Lynnfield, Massachusetts to compete at Grandmaster Byrne's 35th Annual American Tang Soo Do Association 2008 All Tang Soo Do Championship. The tournament is open to all Tang Soo Do practioners. This is the 2nd year in a row that we attended the tournament. The tournament is very large, so large that it spans two days and Tang Soo Do Federations from around the globe come here to compete. All of us had a great time hanging out with fellow Tang Soo Do Martial Artists from all over the world, including meeting Tang Soo Do dignitaries. If you didn't go, then you really missed out on a very large & super fun Tang Soo Do event. Competition was pretty fierce. Awards are given to only places 1st thru 3rd, and to come into the top 3 you would have to have done very very well. A Special Congratulations to 1st Dan Miss Kristine Reilly for winning Grand Champion in Weapons competition for the 2nd straight year in a row!!! Competitors included from Lakewood-Trumbull: 3rd Dan Tal Unrad, from West Haven: Master Tony Melo, 3rd Dan Mrs. Jennifer Melo, 1st Dan Miss Kristine Reilly, 1st Dan Miss Molly Smith, 1st Dan Mr. Walter Smith, 1st Dan Miss Catherine Przybylowski, Apprentice Black Belt Miss Rachael Petraccione, Apprentice Black Belt Mr. Ryan Balamaci.
  Here is how everyone performed: |
| Master Tony Melo | 1st Place Breaking |
| Mrs. Jennifer Melo | 1st Place Traditional Forms |
| 2nd Place Chilson Forms | |
| Miss Kristine Reilly | Grand Champion Junior Weapons Competition |
| 1st Place Weapons | |
| 2nd Place Traditional Forms | |
| 3rd Place Chilson Forms | |
| Miss Molly Smith | 3rd Place Sparring |
| Mr. Walter Smith | 2nd Place Breaking |
| Miss Catherine Przybylowski | 2nd Place Traditional Forms |
| 3rd Place Sparring | |
| 3rd Place Breaking | |
| Miss Rachael Petraccione | 2nd Place Breaking |
| 2nd Place Sparring | |
| 3rd Place Weapons | |
| 3rd Place Traditional Forms | |
| Mr. Ryan Balamaci | 3rd Place Breaking |
| 3rd Place Traditional Forms | |
| 3rd Place Sparring |
| for more tournament pictures click here |
|
Members of the Wallingford Dojang represented the Federation and competed in the AFA Karate Tournament held in North Branford, CT on March 2, 2008. Competitors: Jessie Simpson, Shannon Murray, Brian Murray, Hunter Stenqvist, Danielle Struble, Mitchel Stenqvist, Master Lyne Landry, Matthew Landry-McWilliams, Kyle Landry-McWilliams and Amber Jablonski. 
|
|
The Oxford Dojang, run by 3rd Dan Amy Cote, was recently featured in an article in the Connecticut Post Newspaper. Click here to access the page online: CT Post or read the article below. download it here |
 |
 |
 |
|
OXFORD — Anyone in need of a little extra security may be interested in talking with Amy Cote and some of her martial arts students.
They hold claim to being the best among their peers.
Cote's Institute of Martial Arts in Oxford was chosen as the School of the Year by the Master Cheezic Tang Soo Do Federation. Cheezic's federation includes more than 70 programs from all over the world, though most are based in New England. Cote said she did not think the Oxford program, operated under the town's Parks and Recreation Department, would bring home the award at last month's federation banquet in Southington. She said she was about to leave when it was announced that the program she started five years ago was tops. "I was shocked when it happened. I couldn't believe we were honored, with so many other schools," Cote said. Members of the IMA-Oxford program celebrated the honor at a ceremony Thursday at Oxford High School. But they had seen the trophy two weeks earlier when Cote surprised them with it during a class. "I kind of hid it in a box," Cote said. "I let them all come up and see it. It was like the Super Bowl (trophy). They all wanted to touch it and hold it." Grand Master Robert Cheezic, leader of the Cheezic Federation, said the award is not only based on the students' ability to perform at sparring and forms tournaments or how they handle weapons. It also covers how students do in school, their behavior in the community and how they demonstrate leadership and discipline. "There's a lot of respect and the discipline. If you're not disciplined, it doesn't happen," he said. Zachary Geffert, 10, said he was "pretty psyched" knowing his karate school can call itself No. 1. "I was like 'Are you sure?' " said Geffert, who won a pair of individual awards at the Cheezic Federation banquet. "It's awesome because they picked us because we worked the hardest for the whole year." Kathleen Mifflin, 14, started in IMA-Oxford five years ago and became a first-degree black belt last fall. Her most interesting challenge is trying to break a board with her head. Mifflin said she's proud to see Cote's program grow and is happy with the recognition. "I think [Cote] is an amazing instructor and the students are all great. You have to be a good instructor to have great students," Mifflin said. Cote, a third-degree black belt, said the award is the result of the hard work of her students. "I'm very proud that they're the school of the year," Cote said. "For me, it's the students who've earned this." IMA-Oxford includes classes from preschool Little Ninjas and elementary school-aged Kicking Kids through Family Karate classes and Black Belt and weapons classes. For more information, contact Cote at Oxfordkarate@yahoo.com |
|
Our Federation Awards Banquet was a great success with over 560 people in attendance. We thank all the students, instructors, families and friends for their support at our most important event of the year. It was an honor for us to have Grandmaster Alan Goldberg of Action Marital Arts Magazine, Grandmaster Don Rodgrigues of Team Paul Mitchell & Master Christine Bannon-Rodgrigues World Champion and Martial Arts Film Star attend our banquet this year.
A special thank you to all our Awards Banquet Committee members for their planning and efforts. Grandmaster Robert A. Cheezic Master Janet Grimes Master Tony Melo Mrs. Nancy Robinson Mr. Michael Cavallaro Ms. Rita Hubbard Ms. Tiadora Josef Ms. Susan Matthews Mr. Scott Corn Special Congratualations to our: Shania & Shanelle Rogdrigues of Girls, Inc (Junior) Krista Leeder of Foster, R.I. (Adult) CHEEZIC TANG SOO DO FEDERATION SCHOOL OF THE YEAR 2008 OXFORD Banquet Photos Now Available here |
|
Last May Grandmaster Cheezic was featured on the latest cover of Action Martial Arts Magazine. Click Here Read the Article |
|
INDUCTED INTO MARTIAL ARTS HALL OF FAME & Cheezic Tang Soo Do Federation named: "SCHOOL OF THE YEAR" |
|
Federation Masters, Instructors, Students, Family and Friends took a journey down south to the Tropicana Resort & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ to attend the Action Martial Arts Magazine Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. 15 Masters from the Cheezic Tang Soo Do Federation were inducted into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame. Grandmaster Cheezic also accepted the award for School of the Year!!! The entire weekend was filled with action packed excitement - No matter what your style, there was something in Atlantic City for everyone...karate seminars, the finest gourmet dining (and the best wings), night clubs, high paying slot machines, Black Jack tables where the dealer always busts, vast high-end shopping malls (in the hotels), super elevator rides, select in-room wet bars, the best ocean views, and long strolls on the boardwalk. All of us had a great time at the Banquet and a super weekend. Most of us did it all!!
Congratulations to the inductees: |
|
pictured left to right: Master Todd Deutsch, Master Schuyler Green, Master Adam Gorski, Master Chris Sansonetti, Master Randy Doyle, Master Daryl Laperle, Master Michael "Tang" Sudol, Grandmaster Robert A. Cheezic, Master Gary Gay, Master Tony Melo, Master Neal O'Neil, Master Jeffrey Albright. not shown: Master Paula Saucier, Master Mark Sawyer, Master David Molitano |
| Master Gary Guay #67 | Outstanding Dedication to the Martial Arts |
| Master Neal O'Neil #94 | Outstanding Dedication to the Martial Arts |
| Master Jeffrey Albright #164 | Outstanding Contributions in the M. A. |
| Master Mark Sawyer #206 | Outstanding Contributions in the Martial Arts |
| Master Daryl Laperle #337 | Outstanding Achievements in the Martial Arts |
| Master Randy Doyle #353 | Outstanding Contributions to the Martial Arts |
| Master Paula Saucier #365 | Outstanding Dedication to the Martial Arts |
| Master Michael Sudol #367 | Outstanding Dedication to the Martial Arts |
| Master Todd Deutsch #484 | Outstanding Dedication to the Martial Arts |
| Master David Molitano #495 | Outstanding Dedication to the Martial Arts |
| Master Schuyler Greene #245 | Outstanding Dedication to the Martial Arts |
| Master Christopher Sansonetti #537 | Outstanding Contributions in the Martial Arts |
| Master Adam Gorski #609 | Outstanding Contributions in the Martial Arts |
| Master Tony Melo #741 | Outstanding Contributions in the Martial Arts |
| Master A. E. Hertzler Knox #742 | Outstanding Dedication to the Martial Arts |
Special Thanks to those who supported our inductees:
Master Dave Deguman
,Master Joseph Barbera
,Master Steve Randolph
,Master Donald Laperle
,Jennifer Melo
,Antonio Melo
,Maria Melo
,Scott Corn
,Walter Smith
,Megan Albright
,John Przybylowski
,Margaret Gorski
,Robert Senay
,Susan Senay
,Anthony Maglio
,Gwen Maglio
,Zachary Denovellis
,John O'Neil
,Bob O'Neil
,Matt Miller
,Ed Raposo
,Fred Shulze
,Dan Prall
,Christopher Cavar
,Nancy Coutu
,Allison Lane
,Gerard Cummings
,Jonathan Wilson
,Matthew Guay
,Carl Savoie
,Ian Lane
,Brenda Blain
,David Blain
,David O'Leary
,Clarinda O'Leary
,Sarah Dean
,Richard Bromley Jr
,Kory Ouimette
,Master Greene's wife, Master Greene's Mother
,Mike Potvin
,Angela Potvin
,Holly Brown
,Mike Brown
,Master Laperle's fiance Tracy
,Clarice Laperle
,Shirley Laporte
,Justin Laporte
,Tracy Laperle
,Bonnie Sudell
,Bobbie Sudell
,Jeff Sudol
,Margaret Sudol
,John Sudol
,Robert Szydlo
,Jo-Deen Szydlo
,George Velcko
,Patricia Velcko
,Romeo Josef
|
The Vernon Dojang conducted a Gup Graduation on February 26th. Instructor: Master Ken Fish |
Heavy Snow won't stop the Cheshire Dojang from getting business done!!! On February 12th, Mr. & Mrs. Long along with Grandmaster Cheezic conducted the Chesire Dojang Gup Graduation, depsite the heavy snowfall. Parents and students had to travel through heavy snow & ice to make it to the grading...what a great sign of true dedication!!! Rumors have it that sparring was conducted outside in the snow...although the students' feet were pretty cold, they were able to hide & blend into the snow with their white uniforms. Black Belts Pictured left to right: Grandmaster Cheezic, 1st Dan John Everson, Apprentice Black Belt Rebecca Mencseli, 1st Dan Eric Magnotti, Head Instructor 3rd Dan Lisa Long, Apprentice Black Belt Jonathan Pascale, Instructor 3rd Dan Dan Long |
|
The Wallingford Dojang held a Gup Graduation on February 2, 2008.
Instructors: Master Lyne Landry & Master Harry Needham |
|
 | |
| Congratulations to the following students that graded: Sean Bechtel , Morgan Graichen , Daniel Gregoire , Megan Kristoff , Hunter Stenquist , Matthew O'Driscoll , Josh Pollack , Anthony Diaz , Nicholas Indorf , John Ricci , Ryan Devaney , Mary Rose Torres , Patrick Simpson , Samantha Czaja , Sam Wendler , Annie Simpson , Matthew Landry-McWilliams , Shannon Murray , Mark Bernick , Joe Bernick , Krista Bacchiocchi , Matthew Struble , Victoria Hegedus , Jack Grube , Kyle Landry-McWilliams , Damien Szarwacki , Danielle Gabriel , Brian Murray | |
|
The New Milford Martial Arts Park and Recreation “Little Ninja’s” program held a grading on January 22, 2008. Grand Master Cheezic along with Master Wilke attended this event. Instructors: 3rd Dan Susan Leeper, and 1st Dan Katie Birdsall |
|
 |
|
|
The Boys & Girls club of Waterbury Dojang conducted a Gup Graduation on January 7th. Grandmaster Cheezic presided over the grading. Master Tony Melo, 2nd Dan Susan Mathews, 1st Dan Tara Feher, and 1st Dans Monique, Laura, and Crystal Bellemare were also in attendance. Instructors: 3rd Dan Rita Hubbard & 3rd Dan Michael Cavallaro Asst Instructors: 1st Dan Stephanie Braker & 1st Dan Tammy Chapagne Students Graduating: Mykaela Milonas, Kevoy Sommerville, Andre Sommerville, Kyle Reid, Shaina Martin, Tremaine Days, Jordan Alexander, Andrew Grullon, Alexander Grullon, Janee Johnson, Carlos Soto, Jada Johnson, Jaden Lawrence, Khan Carter, Derreck Pruden, Denzel Dellaghelfa, Alexander Benevides, Isiah Miller, and Matthew Lapeska |
|
 |
|
|
The First Mommy and Me Grading was held at USA Martials in Woodbury. Instructor, 3rd Dan Mrs. Susan Leeper. |
 |
Pictured Left to Right Front Row:
Trip CaCo, Nicole Pavia, Isabella Pavia, Liam Cummings
Pictured Left to Right Back Row: Grandmaster Cheezic, Fran Caco, Susan Pavia, Tracy Cummings, Susan Leeper |
| The Girls Incorporated Dojang of Waterbury held a Gup Graduation on January 10th. Eleven students graduated. Instructor is 3rd Dan Ms. Rita Hubbard. | |
 |
|
| During a recent Little Ninja Graduation in New Milford, Master Doug Wilke extends Birthday wishes & cake to Grandmaster Cheezic. |
 |
| The Oxford Dojang recently held a Little Ninja and Gup Graduation. Head Instructor is 3rd Dan Amy Cote. | |
 |
|
 | |
 | |
|
The Cheezic Tang Soo Do Federation has made plans to visit Sicily. The trip will be 8 Days from Saturday March 1, 2008 thru Saturday March 8, 2008. Cost of the trip is $1705 per person, if paid in full by November 11th. Regular price $1902 with $100 Deposit to secure your spot. For more information and itinerary, please contact A&S Travel @ (800) 303-3742 or (203) 755-5548; -ask for Carol or Jennifer and mention you are inquiring about the Cheezic Tang Soo Do Federation Trip to Siciliy. |
|
2006 NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE |
2007 NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE |
