tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68769700551461700702024-03-13T13:41:36.538-04:00To death. With a stick.Sharpening the mind, body, and soul. A blog about the art of the sword through the martial art Sil Jun Do Bup.Raab Rashihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12085894006043255277noreply@blogger.comBlogger46125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-70727592293490660092011-12-01T07:33:00.000-05:002011-12-01T07:33:28.495-05:00December UpdatesCan you believe it's December already? Here's what's new at Sword Class NYC!<br />
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The class schedule will changing a little bit starting <b>Monday, December 12th:</b><br />
Beginner Class: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays at 6PM at <a href="http://joriaproductions.com/" target="_blank">Joria Productions</a> at 260 W. 36th St. 3rd floor.<br />
Intermediate Class: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays at 7:30PM at <a href="http://www.ripleygrier.com/rg520.php" target="_blank">Ripley-Grier Studios</a> at 520 8th Ave.16th floor. Check the monitors by the elevator to see which room we're in.<br />
Advanced Class (by invitation only): Thursdays at 8:30PM at <a href="http://www.ripleygrier.com/rg520.php" target="_blank">Ripley-Grier Studios.</a><br />
*There will be no classes between December 26th and 29th. We will resume training on January 2nd and there will be no Intermediate class on January 3rd.<br />
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On Sunday, December 18th will be the annual <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/139933532780028/" target="_blank">Sung Moo Kwan Holiday Party</a> at our <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=85+W+Madison+Ave,+dumont,+NJ++07628&ie=UTF8&om=1&z=15&iwloc=A" target="_blank">dojo in Dumont, New Jersey</a>. It will feature the first ever Siljun Dobup tournament! The cost of participation is $20 and you need to register ahead of time, so just ask for a sign up form at your next class. After the tournament will be a kumdo competition and a pot luck dinner complete with karaoke! It should be a great time and friends and family can come for free! <br />
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Finally, sword classes make a great and unique gift! If you're interested in purchasing a gift certificate for the holidays, <a href="mailto:swordclassnyc@gmail.com" target="_blank">just let us know.</a> <br />
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Happy Holidays!Sword Class NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12054149855746460846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-41235803198110997822011-09-30T22:43:00.000-04:002011-09-30T22:43:18.084-04:00October Class ScheduleStarting October 3rd, our weekly class schedule will be:<br />
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<b>Monday</b><br />
6 PM- Beginners at Joria Productions<br />
7 PM- Intermediate at Joria Productions<br />
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<b>Tuesday</b><br />
<b> </b>6 PM- Beginners at Joria Productions<br />
7:30 PM- Intermediate at Ripley-Grier Studios<br />
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<b>Thursday</b><br />
<b> </b>6 PM- Beginners at Joria Productions<br />
7:30 PM- Intermediate at Ripley-Grier Studios<br />
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<a href="http://joriaproductions.com/">Joria Productions</a> is located at 260 W. 36th St. (between 7th and 8th) on the 3rd floor. You can ask which room we're in at the front desk.<br />
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<a href="http://www.ripleygrier.com/">Ripley-Grier Studios</a> is located at 520 8th Ave. (between 36th and 37th) on the 16th floor. Check the monitors by the elevator to see which room we're in.<br />
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Keep an eye on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/swordclassnyc">Facebook page</a> and <a href="http://twitter.com/swordclassNYC">Twitter feed</a>, as well as this space, for any changes or updates to the schedule. Feel free to <a href="mailto:swordclassnyc@gmail.com">e-mail</a> us with any questions!<br />
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See you in class!Sword Class NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12054149855746460846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-68285304605248250052011-09-13T23:01:00.000-04:002011-09-13T23:01:37.517-04:00Level Test September 24thThe next level test will be on Saturday, September 24th at 2:30 PM at the <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=85+W+Madison+Ave,+dumont,+NJ++07628&ie=UTF8&om=1&z=15&iwloc=A">Dumont dojo</a>. If this is your first test, it can be a pretty intimidating experience. Here are some things to keep in mind:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Don't forget to kiap! Seriously. You could do everything else perfectly, but if you forget this, you're going to fail. No one expects you to be perfect at this level, but as long as you can demonstrate your spirit and commitment, you'll be fine.</li>
<li>Maintain <i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zanshin">Zanshin</a></i> ("remaining mind" or focus). Even if you end up on the wrong foot or don't cut properly, don't let it show. Don't make faces or heave heavy sighs. Make any small adjustments you need to and just keep going. Try not to let anything break your focus.</li>
<li>Tap into your <i>chianshim</i> (power). Make sure to engage your core. A good cut comes from speed and <i>chianshim</i>, not brute muscle.</li>
<li>Relax and breathe! Easier said than done, I know, but try. Make sure to move slower than you think you need too. When you're nervous, you'll speed up and make mistakes you wouldn't ordinarily make. Practice going slower than you think you need to so that on the day of the test, you'll move at the proper pace.</li>
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Check in with the instructor if you're not sure what you need to do on the test. Remember that you need to have your own sword and a uniform before you can take your first test. It's best if you can practice in your uniform at least a few times first- <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hakama">hakama</a> can take some getting used to! The cost of the test is $40 and is due before the beginning of the test, along with the testing application form.</div>
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The dojo is easily reached by <a href="http://www.njtransit.com/hp/hp_servlet.srv?hdnPageAction=HomePageTo">New Jersey Transit</a>, but we are also arranging a car pool from the city. Please <a href="mailto:swordclassnyc@gmail.com">let us know</a> ASAP if you'd like to get in on the car pool.</div>
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If you can't make it to the test on the 24th, we will be offering an opportunity to take a video test on Monday, September 26th during regular class. <a href="mailto:swordclassnyc@gmail.com">Send us an e-mail</a> if you'd like more information or have any other questions about the test.</div>
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Good luck!</div>
Sword Class NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12054149855746460846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-17542254954338997752011-08-31T23:12:00.002-04:002011-08-31T23:12:27.467-04:00First Cutting Practice<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: inherit;">This past Saturday, I tried my hand at <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">tameshigiri (target cutting) for the first time. This is an exercise for more advanced Siljun Dobup students. We use (very!) sharp swords (shinken) to cut rice or bamboo mats (tatami) that have been soaked in water overnight. The mats are rolled up and they are about as dense as human flesh. Kind of freaky? Maybe. Harder than it looks? Definitely!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">I've been studying Siljun Dobup for just under two years and have been managing Sword Class NYC since last summer, but this was a brand new experience for me. I had practiced the techniques hundreds of times, but holding that sharpened blade in my hands took my training to a whole new level. Going into this training session, I was reviewing all the minutia of making a good cut in my head: <i>Relax the shoulders; cut forward, not down; make a big circle; make a strong stance; don't overextend the wrists</i> etc. I was sure that if I could just make a good cut, this would be simple. Definitely not the case.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><a href="http://www.kendoacademy.com/2010/09/09/about-grand-master-seong/" style="line-height: 18px;">Grand Master Seong</a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"> complemented my form and posture, but when it came time to actually cut the mats, my blade actually </span><i style="line-height: 18px;">bounced off</i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">. I had this super-sharp katana and two years of training and I couldn't even cut a rice mat?!? How embarrassing, especially in front of my teacher and fellow students, let alone the grand master and creator of the form! I was frustrated with myself and immediately began running through the list again- <i>Relax the shoulders</i></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><i>; cut forward, not down. . ." </i>I couldn't figure out what I was doing wrong. Master Seong told me I needed more "power".</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">As I watched other students take their turns, I started to see what I needed to do. I am certainly no master of the blade, but I have the technical skills to make this cut. My problem wasn't in my shoulders or wrists or even in my feet, but in my head and my heart. I was simply using muscle to make my body do what I wanted it to. Sure, my form needed some tweaking, but the real problem was that I wasn't mentally or spiritually invested. My desire to perform well and demonstrate my skill had derailed my focus.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">On my next try, I shut down my litany of "Cutting To-Dos". I narrowed my focus to only include my blade. I gathered as much<i> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qi">Chi (Qi )</a></i> as I could and trusted my muscle memory to get the sword where it needed to go. It certainly wasn't perfect, but I cut that mat!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">I orginally started studing this art partially for the physical benefits, but more so for the mental and spiritual ones. In a city as fast-paced and busy as New York, we are all constantly multi-tasking. We have our smartphones in one hand and our grande lattes with an extra shot in the other (I do, anyway.) and bounce from task to task to task all day. Siljun Dobup gives me an opportunity to focus my energy on one thing and one thing only- my blade. While this has always been something I am aware of while I train, my main focus has been on perfecting the cuts and forms themselves. Of course this is important, but it can only get you so far. I will continue to practice and refine my skills, but it is time to concentrate more on my <i>chi</i>. It is a muscle like any other and can only get stronger with exercise. It is difficult to apply the ability to cut tatami mats to your job or relationships, but strong <i>chi</i> will benefit every aspect of your life.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">Watch out tatami mats! I'm coming for you!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">Check out the video of my cutting practice below and see <a href="http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL068C7E6C7E37885E">more videos here. </a></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><i style="background-color: black;">Sara is the manager of <a href="http://swordclassnyc.com/">Sword Class NYC</a> and a 2nd Geup in Siljun Dopub. You can contact her via Sword Class NYC's <a href="mailto:swordclassnyc@gmail.com">e-mail</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/swordclassnyc">Facebook</a> or <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/swordclassNYC">Twitter</a>. Keep your eye peeled for more of her blogging here!</i></span>Sword Class NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12054149855746460846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-21796146951286956262011-08-28T12:42:00.001-04:002011-08-28T12:43:05.911-04:00Updates!Hello there! Long time, no see!<br />
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There has been a lot going on at Sword Class NYC! We have been been steadily growing and expanding our class schedule. Here's what it looks like now:<br />
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<b>Beginner Classes</b><br />
Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at 6 PM at <a href="http://joriaproductions.com/">Joria Productions</a><br />
**Please email <a href="mailto:swordclassnyc@gmail.com">swordclassnyc@gmail.com</a> to make a reservation.**<br />
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<b>Intermediate Classes</b><br />
Monday & Tuesday at 7 PM at <a href="http://joriaproductions.com/">Joria Productions</a><br />
Thursday at 7:30 PM at <a href="http://www.ripleygrier.com/">Ripley-Grier Studios</a> (8th Ave. Location)<br />
**On Tuesday September 6th, Intermediate class will be at 7:30 PM at <a href="http://www.ripleygrier.com/">Ripley-Grier Studios</a>**<br />
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We are still on the lookout for a space to call our very own. Get all the news and updates on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/swordclassnyc">Facebook</a>, follow us on <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/swordclassNYC">Twitter</a> and keep an eye on this page.Sword Class NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12054149855746460846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-90571457568325453242011-04-29T10:32:00.000-04:002011-04-29T10:33:20.088-04:00Welcome Yelpers!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, 'Lucida Grande', 'Bitstream Vera Sans', verdana, sans-serif; color: rgb(85, 85, 85); font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px; "><h1 style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 24px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 1.166; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">$140 for Samurai Sword Class 3-Pack & Take-Home Sword (reg $240) at Samurai Sword Classes</h1><div class="info-top clearfix" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 12px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><div id="r7SgDWCV96OwlwHQAIj5cw" class="deal-stats" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; float: left; display: inline; line-height: 14px; text-align: center; width: 230px; height: 265px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><a href="http://www.yelp.com/deal/1WRP-fgtTrsBJ-HMifskqw/view?return_url=%2Fbiz%2Fsamurai-sword-classes-manhattan" id="buy-deal-r7SgDWCV96OwlwHQAIj5cw" class="fat-btn" style="margin-top: 11px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 11px; margin-left: auto; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 20px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: url(http://media2.ct.yelpcdn.com/static/201012163320415749/i/ico/biz_details.gif); background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; font-weight: bold; width: 230px; height: 63px; display: block; line-height: 63px; text-shadow: rgb(105, 10, 0) 0px 1px 1px; background-position: 0px -320px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; ">Buy Now for $140</a><div class="savings" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; float: none; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><ul class="clearfix" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; float: none; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><li class="value" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; float: none; line-height: 16px; text-align: center; display: inline-block; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">Reg. Price<span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 17px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); display: block; font-weight: bold; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">$240</span></li> <li class="discount" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; float: none; line-height: 16px; text-align: center; display: inline-block; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">Discount<span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 17px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); display: block; font-weight: bold; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">42%</span></li> <li class="save" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; float: none; line-height: 16px; text-align: center; display: inline-block; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">Savings<span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 17px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); display: block; font-weight: bold; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">$100</span></li></ul></div><div id="countdown-wrap" style="margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 5px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 254, 215); border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-right-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><div class="countdown" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: auto; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; float: none; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; width: 180px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><p class="running" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 22px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: url(http://media2.px.yelpcdn.com/static/201012163767212247/i/ico/ico_map.gif); background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 254, 215); float: left; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; background-position: 0px -1881px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; ">Time Remaining</p><span class="time-wrap" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 10px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 17px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: none; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; float: left; font-weight: bold; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><span class="time" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 17px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); float: left; font-weight: bold; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">25</span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 17px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; float: left; font-weight: bold; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">:</span><span class="time" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 17px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); float: left; font-weight: bold; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">26</span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 17px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; float: left; font-weight: bold; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">:</span><span class="time" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 17px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); float: left; font-weight: bold; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">57</span></span></div></div><div id="sold-so-far" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><strong style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 17px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">22</strong> Sold so far<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">Limited quantities available</p></div><div class="sharing-buttons" style="margin-top: 20px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: auto; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; width: 200px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><div class="facebook" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; float: left; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?width=90px&href=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.yelp.com%2Fdeals%2Fsamurai-sword-classes-manhattan&layout=button_count&height=21px" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; width: 90px; height: 21px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "></iframe></div><div class="twitter" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: -10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; float: right; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" tabindex="0" class="twitter-share-button twitter-count-horizontal" src="http://platform0.twitter.com/widgets/tweet_button.html?_=1304087216949&count=horizontal&lang=en&text=Yelp%20Deal%3A%20%24140%20for%203%20Samurai%20Sword%20Classes%20%26%20Take-Home%20Sword%20(reg%20%24240)%20at%20Samurai%20Sword%20Classes&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.yelp.com%2Fdeals%2Fsamurai-sword-classes-manhattan" title="Twitter For Websites: Tweet Button" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; width: 110px; height: 20px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "></iframe></div></div></div><div class="clearStyles deal-photo pb-xl" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 12px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; float: right; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-right-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-left-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); -webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.199219) 0px 2px 3px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><img src="http://media2.ct.yelpcdn.com/dphoto/vbKimPfEuGH_79qnwU0Kew/xl" alt="Yelp Deal photo" width="400" height="245" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 12px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; display: block; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; " /></div></div><div class="deal-body clearfix" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 12px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; clear: left; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><div class="description" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; float: left; line-height: 1.3076; width: 400px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><h2 style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(196, 18, 0); background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">What You Get</h2><ul class="bullet-list-outside detail-list" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 15px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: outside; list-style-image: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">Fierce samurai skills with this Package of 3 Group Samurai Sword Classes</li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">Proof that you’re legit - the traditional iaito training sword you’ll use in class is yours to keep</li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">15% off your next group or private class</li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">Go with friends - you can buy multiples as gifts</li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">Classes held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings and are by reservation only (call or email swordclassnyc@gmail.com), 48-hour cancellation notice required</li></ul></div><div class="fine-print" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(85, 85, 85); float: right; width: 230px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><h2 style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(196, 18, 0); background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">Special Terms</h2>$140 for Samurai Sword Class 3-Pack & Take-Home Sword (reg $240) promotion lasts through 4/30/2012. For another 4 years after that period, your Certificate is redeemable for the amount you paid, less any value that you have already received. Limit 1 Certificate purchase per person for own use, may buy multiple as gifts. Certificate redeemable starting 4/30/2011. One person may not redeem more than 1 Certificate during the promotion period. By reservation only, 48-hour cancellation notice required or Certificate is forfeited. All reservations must be scheduled by phone or email. Not to be combined with other certificates or offers. Subject to the <a href="http://www.yelp.com/tos/deal_us_20110225" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(102, 102, 204); text-decoration: none; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">Yelp Deals General Terms</a>.</div></div></span>Raab Rashihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12085894006043255277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-810140944633214862011-03-21T16:06:00.000-04:002011-03-21T16:06:51.868-04:002011 H-Mart Asian Food Festival - Sword Demo<iframe width="480" height="295" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/q2onQxoV12o?fs=1" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>Raab Rashihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12085894006043255277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-19033382478927698542010-11-29T21:48:00.000-05:002010-11-29T22:09:25.942-05:00New Class Schedule!Starting tomorrow (Nov. 30th), Sword Class NYC will have a brand new expanded schedule! We've added a second Intermediate class on Tuesdays from 6-7 PM and are keeping Thursdays the same- Beginners from 6-7PM and Intermediate from 7-8 PM. Now you can train twice a week! E-mail swordclassnyc@gmail.com with any questions and we'll see you in class!Sword Class NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12054149855746460846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-16488513535826859682010-10-11T12:51:00.000-04:002010-10-11T12:56:46.198-04:00SwordClassNYC.com is live!<span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I'm so happy to announce that </span></span><a href="http://swordclassnyc.com"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">swordclassNYC.com</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> is now live! It still needs a few fixes, but it's very close to final form. It was created for me by the very talented and professional</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Amy Olchowski of </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><a href="www.aeodesign.com"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">AEO DESIGN</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">. If you need a fabulous designer AND programmer who's very receptive to feedback, she's your girl. This is the next step in growing the business, and I hope that you'll enjoy the new layout, and possibly even share the site with your friends! Or even better, sign up for a trial class </span></span><a href="http://swordclassnyc.com/contact.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">HERE</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">. </span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">;)</span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">A special thank you to Emily Kelly who put my in contact with Amy.</span></span></span></div></div>Raab Rashihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12085894006043255277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-27004381232859823772010-09-22T21:38:00.000-04:002010-09-22T21:52:34.761-04:00To theDealist.com customers... Welcome!<p class="p1">Thank you for your almost overwhelming interest in Samurai sword classes! Because of the large number of purchasers, we've decided to make some changes to our class schedule.</p><p class="p1">Starting in October, we will be offering Intro classes on Tuesdays from 6-7 and 7-8 and on Thursdays from 6-7 and possibly 8-9. We will start scheduling people into classes once the promotion on The Dealist ends, which is this Wednesday at midnight. Once we start scheduling people, you'll be able to schedule all three of your classes at once, but we would like for you to attend three consecutive weeks (so if you choose a Tuesday at 6:00, you'll be on Tuesdays at 6:00 for the next 2 weeks). The classes will range from 8-12 people. You can schedule them up until basically the day before the class, but the further in advance you book, the better the chances of getting the dates you'd like. <br /><br /></p><p class="p1">I'm looking forward to meeting you!</p><p class="p1">Sab Bom Nim Raab Rashi</p>Raab Rashihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12085894006043255277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-19146784564951865552010-09-15T09:54:00.000-04:002010-09-15T10:01:45.123-04:00swordclassNYC featured on theDealist.comswordclassNYC has been featured on <a href="www.thedealist.com">theDealist.com</a>! They are a social deal website focusing on the NYC region. For this deal, we are offering a package of 3 classes, heavily discounted at $25. One correction to what is listed on the site: I am NOT the founder of this martial art (I'm no where near bad-ass enough yet). Grandmaster Jin K. Seong is the founder of Siljun Dobup and received his training in iaido and Korean sword arts from his master, the late Grandmaster Young Dal Kim.<div><br /></div><div>But welcome, visitors from theDealist! I hope that you'll have a fantastic experience and broaden your understanding of this fantastic and ancient martial art. Please contact me if you have any questions at swordclassNYC@gmail.com. I look forward to teaching you!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Sab Bom Nim Raab Rashi</div>Raab Rashihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12085894006043255277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-8901713887065444102010-09-09T11:24:00.000-04:002010-09-09T11:36:57.016-04:00Comic Con demonstration time announced!SwordClassNYC and our parent company, the <a href="www.kendoacademy.com">Sung Moo Kwan Kendo Academy</a> will be demonstrating Kendo and Siljun Dobup ("Real Sword Training") at <a href="http://www.newyorkcomiccon.com/">New York Comic Con</a> on Friday, October 8th at the Variant Stage from 6:15 - 6:45 PM. That's not a lot of time, but I hope that you will be able to join us. At the panel, we'll be demoing:<div><br /></div><div>- A brief history of the katana and the evolution of Kendo</div><div>- Kendo techniques presented by Kendo Academy students</div><div>- An introduction to Siljun Dobup and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iaid%C5%8D">iaido</a></div><div>- Sets Jee, Su, Poong, and Hwa, or Earth, Water, Wind, and Fire, presented by Siljun Dobup practitioners</div><div><br /></div><div>It should be a fantastic event, and I hope you can make it! </div><div><br /></div><div>I can't wait to see all the costumes!</div><div><a href="http://www.newyorkcomiccon.com/en/NYCC/Tickets/"><br /></a></div><div><a href="http://www.newyorkcomiccon.com/en/NYCC/Tickets/"><img src="http://www.newyorkcomiccon.com/RNA/RNA_NewYorkComicCon/nycc-images/2010/buy_tickets.png" alt="Buy Your Tickets for NYAF" /></a></div>Raab Rashihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12085894006043255277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-72815434590040665182010-08-10T12:35:00.000-04:002010-08-10T12:48:50.337-04:00SwordClassNYC to perform at NY Comic Con!SwordClassNYC (and our parent company, <a href="www.kendoacademy.com">Sung Moo Kwan Kendo Academy</a>) will be hosting a panel demonstration of Siljun Dobup and Kendo at <a href="http://www.newyorkcomiccon.com/">NY Comic Con 2010</a>! I've loved Comic con ever since living in San Diego, and can't wait to participate in this fantastic event. This will be our 4th (and certainly the largest) convention performance this year, and is a great opportunity to promote these martial arts and inform the NY community about <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/samurai-sword-classes-manhattan">Samurai Sword classes</a>. I will post more details when I get them, including the time and location, but I wanted to share the good news!<div><br /></div><div>See you at <a href="http://www.newyorkcomiccon.com/">NY Comic Con</a>! I'll be the one dressed as a samurai. :P</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; color: rgb(0, 51, 153); ">“Do nothing which is of no use.”</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; color: rgb(0, 51, 153); ">- Miyamoto Musashi</span></div>Raab Rashihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12085894006043255277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-45616464035446169622010-08-02T14:08:00.000-04:002010-08-02T14:23:40.489-04:00Midsummer Magick Renaissance Faire sword workshop<div>For those of you who don't know Jeff Mach (if that's possible), let me tell you that this guy knows how to throw a party. Let me back up a little. Jeff is an event organizer extraordinaire, and his events range from <a href="http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/254593074/the-alternative-bridal-expo-and-alternative-fun-ex">alternative bridal expos</a> to <a href="http://midsummermagickfaire.com/">renaissance faires </a>to <a href="http://steampunkworldsfair.com/">steampunk conventions</a>. But one common thread through all his events is that it always feel like it's a huge party, and you have been specially invited. I have the good fortune of being able to call Jeff "friend" (and many other things, if I think about it), and am often asked to perform workshops at his events. Samurai sword training at a Renaissance faire? Sure! Why not? That's what makes his events different... special. At a Jeff Mach event, it will never be your typical {whatever}. It's not an event, it's an experience.</div><div><br /></div><div>I performed a workshop this past weekend and it was fantastic! Even contending schedule-wise with the indomitable, fantasmigorical <a href="http://www.greenwolfmagic.com/">Daniel Greenwolf</a>, the workshop was still well attended. The participants were interested, focused, and enthusiastic. What more could a teacher ask for? Oh right... 82 degree weather and busty lasses in corsets. Check out the pictures below, but more importantly, <a href="http://www.wickedfaire.com/">check out a Jeff Mach event!</a></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/photo.php?pid=4707192&id=506796888&ref=album&fbid=424026771888">Facebook | Michael Whitehouse's Photos - MMRF 2010 Week 3</a>Raab Rashihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12085894006043255277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-68110632330094794122010-07-23T14:17:00.000-04:002010-07-23T14:24:01.486-04:00New class in August!I'm very pleased to announce that beginning Thursday August 5 Samurai Sword Classes will be adding an additional class from 7-8:00 PM. This will be an intermediate class, for people that are interested in attending regularly and really training intensively. The 6-7 class will continue as a beginner class, and will be open to first-timers, beginning students, and more advanced students that want to practice the basics and/or assist the first-timers. <div><br /></div><div>Also, very soon we will be rolling out the new class website. Once the website launches (sometime in August), we will be referring to the class as swordclassNYC (website will be swordclassnyc.com). Good things are happening, and I'm happy that you, dear reader, are there to share it with me!</div><div><br /></div><div>Classes are held from <b>6-8(!)</b> at 260 West 36th St. 3rd Floor (Joria Studios). See you there!</div>Raab Rashihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12085894006043255277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-9836882489043344032010-07-19T10:34:00.000-04:002010-07-19T10:40:31.515-04:00Star Wars samurai art!As you may or may not know, I am a huge Star Wars fan. I've always known about Star Wars art, and I remember when I was young it was always an incredible treat to see other artist's fresh take interpreting Star Wars. But then the future happened, and with the internet, Star Wars art became mainstream, and I'm glad it has! There are a few shining examples of how artists have reached back into the source materials of Star Wars, emphasizing its Samurai-esqu feel, but sometimes there are really fantastic creations. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Q-326w7-gYY/S6H4ZLLOC2I/AAAAAAAAAKc/B7HKdmBEL4o/s1600-h/obi.jpg">Here's one.</a><div><br /></div><div>Check out <a href="http://stevapalooza.blogspot.com/">Steve Bialik's blog</a> to see more examples!</div><div><br /></div>Raab Rashihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12085894006043255277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-15005370209527363622010-07-13T18:50:00.000-04:002010-07-13T18:50:46.334-04:00The kendo lifecycle | [ kenshi247.net ]Check out this fantastic bog post about the lifecycle of a Kendoka (kendo practitioner). I started Kendo in my 20’s, and now that I’m in my 30’s I feel I’ve entered a new stage of my training. There wasn’t so much a conscious choice to alter how I approached practice, but my mentality has developed, matured as my skill increases. I practice Kendo less as a competitive sport, and more as an expression of my spirit.<br /><br /><a href="http://kenshi247.net/blog/2010/07/13/the-kendo-lifecycle/">The kendo lifecycle | [ kenshi247.net ]</a>Raab Rashihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12085894006043255277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-56088237884715707242010-07-12T09:00:00.000-04:002010-07-12T09:01:51.840-04:00<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; border-collapse: collapse; "><b>Ancient Martial Art examination held for the first time in the United States</b><br /><br />Palisades Park, NJ — Twenty students tested in front of visiting masters from Korea to become the first American black belts in the ancient sword martial art “Chosun Sebup.” The examination was held by the Korean Kumdo Association (KKA) and is the first ever held in the United States.<br /><br />Chosun Sebup is one of the earliest written sword arts. Transcribed by a Chinese military tactician in the year 1621, Chosun Sebup is a section of codex “Mu-Bee Ji,” a compilation of martial arts and tactics from China, Japan, and Korea. It is separated into three chapters, Heaven, Earth, and Man. Each chapter details different sword techniques for use on the battlefield.<br /><br />Students of the form are expected to perform the techniques flawlessly and must also complete a written examination to attain their black belt, or “Dan” rank. The prospective black belts are students from two northern New Jersey Kendo schools, Hung Moo Kwan and Sung Moo Kwan. Kendo, or “the way of the sword,” is the modern martial art of sword-fighting practiced by over six million people worldwide. Chosun Sebup, though a traditional Korean martial art, shares many similarities with Kendo including the concept of harmonizing the mind, body, and spirit.<br /><br /><img src="http://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=fa5e971b8e&view=att&th=129c47d898b47e62&attid=0.1&disp=inline&zw" /><br /><br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; border-collapse: collapse; "><img src="http://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=fa5e971b8e&view=att&th=129c33ff1bb183c3&attid=0.2&disp=inline&zw" /><br /><br /><br /># # #</span></div>Raab Rashihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12085894006043255277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-21456576362150482862010-07-09T09:23:00.000-04:002010-07-09T10:20:59.538-04:00This weekend there will be a very special event held at the Huang Moo Kwan Kendo school in Palisades Park, NJ. For the first time in the United States, a group of students will test for their 1st Dan (blackbelt) rank in a Korean martial art called "Chosun Sebup." I will be one of these students!<div><br /></div><div>Chosun Sebup is a martial art detailed in the 17th century Korean military codex, <span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:Arial;font-size:medium;"> 'Mu-bee-ji,’ a compilation of Chinese, Korean, and Japanese martial arts and tactics. Because of its shared border with China and long coastline, Korea has been in external conflict for much of its history. 'Mu-bee-ji' would have been written in a time when Korea was defending it's borders from the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeongmyo_Horan">Manchu-Invasion</a>, and recovering from the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hideyoshi's_invasions_of_Korea">Seven-Year War</a> with Japan. This is of important historical significance because most martial arts traditions of the time were passed down by word of mouth from teacher to student. The manual codifies, describes, and analyzes both friendly and enemy tactics and served as an important reconnaissance tool for the Korean commanders.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:Arial;font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:Arial;font-size:medium;">Chosun Sebup was the first inclusion in "Mu-bee-ji," and was practiced with a sword that was slung from the right shoulder and hung on the left side of the body, similar to the "tachi" (slung sword). It is unknown if the sword used in this art was a curved sword of Japanese origin (Katana) or a straight sword of the Chinese tradition (Jian). It is likely that both types of swords were used, depending on geographical location and access to trade routes. Another theory is that these two sword traditions were combined as the traditional Korean sword (Jingum) is curved like the katana, but incorporates the hanging tassel similar to the jian. </span></div><div><br /></div><div>Chosun Sebup is divided into three sections, each with four techniques emphasizing a different form of attach and/or defense. These are:</div><div><p style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:medium;"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:180%;"><b>Chapter 1. </b></span><span style="font-family:바탕;font-size:180%;"><b>천</b></span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:180%;"><b> ( Cheon) – Heaven</b></span><br /><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">1. </span><span style="font-family:바탕;font-size:100%;">거정세</span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;"> ( Guh-jeong-se) - </span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">Making high stance as if one lifts a big pot.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">2. </span><span style="font-family:바탕;font-size:100%;">과좌세</span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;"> ( Gua-jua-se) - </span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">Cutting from upleft to downright </span><br /><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">3. </span><span style="font-family:바탕;font-size:100%;">과우세</span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;"> (Gua-woo-se) - </span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">Cutting from upright to downright</span><br /><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">4. </span><span style="font-family:바탕;font-size:100%;">탄복세</span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;"> ( Tan-bok-se) - </span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">Thrusting at the belly</span> </p><p style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:medium;"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:180%;"><b>Chapter 2. </b></span><span style="font-family:바탕;font-size:180%;"><b>지</b></span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:180%;"><b> ( Jeeh) – Earth</b></span><br /><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">1. </span><span style="font-family:바탕;font-size:100%;">표두세</span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;"> ( Pyo-doo-se) - </span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">Cutting the leopard’s head – Straight up to down cut</span><br /><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">2. </span><span style="font-family:바탕;font-size:100%;">좌협세</span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;"> (Jua-hyeop-se) - </span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">Thrusting at the left chest</span><br /><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">3. </span><span style="font-family:바탕;font-size:100%;">우협세</span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;"> (Woo-hyeop-se) - </span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">Thrusting at the heart<br /></span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">4. </span><span style="font-family:바탕;font-size:100%;">어거세</span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;"> (Uh-guh-se) - </span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">Sw<wbr>ord at center position – pushing forward</span></p><p style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:medium;"><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:180%;"><b>Chapter 3. </b></span><span style="font-family:바탕;font-size:180%;"><b>인</b></span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:180%;"><b> (In) – Human</b></span><br /><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">1. </span><span style="font-family:바탕;font-size:100%;">은망세</span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;"> (Uhn-mahng-se) -</span> <span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">Silver Python</span><br /><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">2. </span><span style="font-family:바탕;font-size:100%;">전시세</span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;"> (Jeon –shi-se) - </span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">As if one spreads wings</span><br /><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">3. </span><span style="font-family:바탕;font-size:100%;">요격세</span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;"> (Yo-gyeok-se) - </span>Cutting from upright to down left<br /><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;">4. </span><span style="font-family:바탕;font-size:100%;">봉두세</span><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;"> (Bong-doo-se) - </span>Beheading the Phoenix</p><p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; ">A demonstration of Chosun Sebup performed by a youth sword team in Korea:</p></div><br /><object style="background-image:url(http://i2.ytimg.com/vi/1GUbjJav7Ew/hqdefault.jpg)" width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/1GUbjJav7Ew&hl=en_US&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/1GUbjJav7Ew&hl=en_US&fs=1" width="425" height="344" allowscriptaccess="never" allowfullscreen="true" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object>Raab Rashihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12085894006043255277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-52330121961535723442010-06-22T12:36:00.000-04:002010-06-22T12:50:25.423-04:00I can't wait to see<a href="http://www.mcny.org/exhibitions/future/Samurai-in-New-York.html"> THIS exhibit</a> at the Museum of New York. I especially love this picture:<div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.mcny.org/images/content/1/2/12452.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 488px; height: 260px;" src="http://www.mcny.org/images/content/1/2/12452.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /></div><div>You can imagine this girl - a New York socialite, young and healthy - and her first experience with these foreign warriors, and what must have been going through her mind. As per most photographs of the time, their expressions are serene, as you had to wait for the camera to capture the image and it's much easier to maintain a placid expression. I suspect this was a much easier feat for the samurai, who were accustomed to keeping their expressions neutral, as was the cultural societal norm for the Japanese. Also, these were more than warriors, these were cultural ambassadors, charged with breaking Japan's self-imposed isolation from pretty much the rest of the world. What do you think they were thinking?</div><div><br /></div><div>The exhibit begins this Friday, the 25th and runs through October 11th.<br /><div><br /></div></div>Raab Rashihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12085894006043255277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-36050804224809300072010-06-21T23:34:00.000-04:002010-06-21T23:35:24.624-04:00Japanese sword action Samurai exercise "TSURUGI"This guy has some of the best form I've ever seen. I'm actually<br />going to use his description for the grip for my beginner students.<br /><br /><br /><object style="background-image: url(http://i1.ytimg.com/vi/4eYzRDbndt0/hqdefault.jpg);" height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/4eYzRDbndt0&hl=en_US&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/4eYzRDbndt0&hl=en_US&fs=1" allowscriptaccess="never" allowfullscreen="true" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" height="344" width="425"></embed></object>Raab Rashihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12085894006043255277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-89529157067062524122010-06-17T11:13:00.000-04:002010-06-17T11:52:17.908-04:00Good things are coming!<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy10/huaweiswords/raab/IMG_3990.jpg"></a>Hello blog. I know we haven't spoken in a while, and I guess that's my fault, but you know, you don't make it easy. Twitter, Facebook, Buzz... all these services and how can I continue to.... ok, I know, I know, I'm just making excuses. But maybe we can try this again? Maybe this time it will be different? Iknow I've said that before, but can't you find deep down in your code to give me one last chance? Probationary period? OK, I'm willing to try anything if it means we'll be able to spend more time together. Good, let's give it a try then!<div><br /></div><div>So there's a lot going on in the wide world of Samurai swords. Alright, so maybe it's not that wide, but it's certainly hopping! First of all, we have a Kendo and sword demonstration coming up this Saturday, June 19 at the <a href="http://www.animenext.org/">ANIMENEXT</a> convention in <a href="http://www.doubletreesomerset.com/">Somerset NJ</a>. We're going to talk about how real sword training has influenced anime, and if we have enough time, might to a hands-on workshop. Hope you can make it to this!</div><div><br /></div><div>On July 11, I am going to be taking a blackbelt examination for the martial art Joson Sebup. This is an extremely old sword form from Korea predating iaido. It is from a military codex that compiled different fighting styles from the proto-Korean kingdom's allies and enemies, including China and Japan. One of the challenges of this form is that there is no living record on how the techniques were practiced, so all we can do is interpret from illustrations. Here is a video of the form demonstrated by the Korean National Kendo team. These guys (especially the girl in front) are GOOD!</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1GUbjJav7Ew&feature=player_embedded">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1GUbjJav7Ew&feature=player_embedded</a></div><div><br /></div><div>We're also going to have a master's workshop about Josun Sebup and Kendo (Kumdo) on Friday July 9 at 6:30 at the <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.kendoacademy.com">SMK Kendo Academy</a> in Dumont NJ.</div><div><br /></div><div>Also... I purchased a new sword. The one I currently use is great for general use and repetative swinging but I wanted a new one that:</div><div>- Was made of steel instead of zinc-aluminum alloy</div><div>- Was a little heavier to feel more like a "real" cutting sword and to bridge the gap between practice cutting (on soft targets) to real cutting (hard targets like bamboo mats)</div><div>- I could use for demonstration purposes.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here she is. Ain't she a beaut? </div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(85, 26, 139); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy10/huaweiswords/raab/IMG_3990.jpg" border="0" alt="" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 1000px; height: 750px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(85, 26, 139); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><br /></div><div> </div>Raab Rashihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12085894006043255277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-77716635219588621332010-04-19T18:56:00.000-04:002010-04-19T19:01:19.717-04:00New Space!Starting on Thursday, April 22nd, the new home of sword class will be at 36th Street Studios(260 West 36th St. 3rd Floor). Class will still be from 6-7:00PM and are for all experience levels.Raab Rashihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12085894006043255277noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-29155128961876722552010-03-22T10:40:00.000-04:002010-03-22T11:55:07.050-04:00Looking for new space for class.Spring is here, the healthcare bill has passed and change is in the air. Since I started teaching the sword class in September, the class has been at the Workmen's Circle Building on 33rd St. It seems that soon the space will longer be available and I'm going to have to find a new place to hold classes. There are a few requirements for the next space:<div><br /></div><div>- Must have high ceilings. Most pre-war buildings have sufficient ceilings, as do industrial/loft spaces. It's not fun to swing a sword over your hear and have to worry about hitting a heating duct.</div><div>- I'd love to find a space near Penn Station. That's where I come into the city, so that would make it very easy for me to hold classes.</div><div>- Not more than $30/hour. </div><div><br /></div><div>Does anyone have any suggestions? Leads? Ideas? </div>Raab Rashihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12085894006043255277noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6876970055146170070.post-15994495983020845112010-02-22T09:11:00.000-05:002010-03-01T16:08:18.820-05:00Busy Februa.... Wait, it's March already?Wow, February was a busy month! Between special classes for NYU students, doing a workshop at Jeff Mach's Wicked Faire (which was a blast, by the way. If anyone ever has the opportunity to attend a Jeff event, especially the Wicked Faire, do it! There's something for everybody and you'll have a great time), and my trip to New Orleans, I haven't had much time. The Thurday class continues as usual, and I'm even considering adding a second class directly after the 6:00 class, or on another day of the week (possibly Tuesdays). Ah if only it didn't cost so much to rent space in NY! <div><br /></div><div>I'm also having a conversation with a mother who is interested in setting up a teen class for her son and some of his classmates. I think this is a terrific idea. I know that if I would have had the opportunity to study the sword in High School, I would have jumped at it! I think that it would have really brought some much needed focus that I seemed to lose, especially in the last year of school.</div><div><br /></div><div>Oh, and if you've been to the class, I'd love it if you would take the time to write up something about it on Yelp! It doesn't even have to be long, just a few comments and maybe a rating. I've pasted a link below to help speed you on your way.<br /><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/samurai-sword-classes-manhattan"><br /> <img src="https://images.yelp.com/i/ext/genericYelpButton.gif" width="88" height="33" alt="Samurai Sword Classes" /><br /></a><br /></div>Raab Rashihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12085894006043255277noreply@blogger.com0