July 2026 WU SHEN TAO NEWS

UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS/ CLOSINGS

ICMAC International Championships -July 17-19, 2026, Caribe Royal Resort, Orlando FLA

KuoShu International Championships -July 24-26, Rennaisance Resort, Baltimore Inner Harbor

SWORDPLAY WORKSHOP

On Saturday June 6, 2026 Paul Ramos conducted the next portion of his ongoing sword play series. This series looks at functionality and methods of using sword applications through the working of hand and foot drills, distance and timing exercises and other training methods. Training culminated in a final hour of free swordplay while rotating through all of those present. All levels could participate since the first hour was review of the fundamentals and the the next 2 hours worked the hand -foot drills, mental techniques, and timing / reaction training methods prior to freeplay. Participants really enjoy the training because it is both instructional and fun. Originally this was meant to be a one-time introductory workshop but the participants continued to ask for more; so segments will continue until we reach advanced level methods.

A group of participants filled the training area as we worked several of the hand, foot, and 2 person training methods. 4 hours later the group expressed their appreciation as they left the studio tired but informed and happy to have reviewed previous material while also working on new drills and training methods. There are more swordplay methods to explore and interested individuals will be notified prior to the next block of instruction to take place sometime in the Fall.

SUMMER IS HERE


Now that the weather has getten hotter students must make sure that they remain sufficiently hydrated. Bring your water ( which is better than most energy drinks), and feel free to take short breaks to drink during class times. The intensity of classes remains the same throughout the year so participants must remain vigilant and self monitor themselves to avoid fainting and weakness. Dehydration can be insidious and adverse effects can sneak up on you. One may feel fine one minute and then nauseous or faint the next moment. We may also have outdoor classes on occasion so the direct sunlight plus working out can cause these negative effects to occur more swiftly. When in doubt rest a bit, drink water and then resume training. If negative effects occur feel free to sit down and observe the class as long as is necessary before rejoining the training.



 SHAOLIN KUNG FU


Wu Shen Tao offers training in traditional northern-style Chinese martial arts forms and techniques passed down through the Wudang Dragon Gate lineage, as well as Tien Shan Pai and other Shaolin styles. Sessions include intense physical workouts which build strength, balance, mind/body coordination, and skills for self-defense. Training is tailored to each individual, so beginners of all ages are welcome. Classes are led by Lao Shr Jeff Bandy who has taught our Shaolin program for more than a decade. If you are interested, or have questions, please reach us via email, wstkungfu@outlook.com

  • Kids Kung Fu at Liz Lerman Dance Exchange in Takoma Park), Thursdays 4:45-5:45pm and Saturdays 11:45-12:45pm

  • Adult/Teen Kung Fu - Contact us for details at wstkungfu@outlook.com


HYATTSVILLE LOCATION

Our Adult group classes are located in Hyattsville, MD. Our Community Tai Chi Push Hands gathering takes place there from 7:30-9:30 pm each Thursday evening. This free community gathering focuses on developing the skills of using the least amount of force to accomplish the maximum effect. This is known as the classic “Use softness to overcome hardness”.

On Saturdays from 9:00 am-10 am we train beginners. This is followed from 10-11 am by our Tai Chi Form and basics level 2 class. This is followed by Tai Chi Pushing Hands instruction at 11am. Beginning at 12 noon, we begin the Xing-I Chuan / Bagua Zhang training, as well as our advanced practitioner / specialized training block which runs until 1:30 PM.

Those wishing to train privately or semi-privately may do so at our Gaithersburg location at days and times agreed upon by both teacher and student. Call 301-651-3617 for more information.

The address for the group location is: 3811 Nicholson Street Hyattsville MD, 20782

The address for private lesson location is:

329B Main Street Gaithersburg MD, 20878



QUOTES OF THE MONTH

I found my place when I stopped looking for it.

Mahershala Ali

Family not only need to consist of merely those whom we share blood, but also for those whom we’d give blood.

“Nicholas Nickleby” - Charles Dickens

He who knows that enough is enough will always have enough.

Laozi

Paul Ramos and George Harris -Shanghai China 1994

June 2026 WU SHEN TAO NEWS


UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS/ CLOSINGS

Sword Play Workshop -June 6 12-4 pm Hyattsville location

Presidential Wu Shu Cup -June 27, 2026 , Rockville MD

ICMAC International Championships -July 17-19, 2026, Caribe Royal Resort, Orlando FLA

KuoShu International Championships -July 24-26, Rennaisance Resort, Baltimore Inner Harbor

SWORDPLAY WORKSHOP

On Saturday June 6, 2026 Paul Ramos will conduct the next portion of his ongoing sword play series. This series looks at functionality and methods of using sword applications through the working of hand and foot drills, distance and timing exercises and other training methods. Training culminates in a final hour of free swordplay while rotating through all of those present. All levels may participate since the first hour will be review of the fundamentals and the the next 2 hours works the hand -foot drills, mental techniques, and timing / reaction training methods prior to freeplay. Participants really enjoy the training because it is both instructional and fun. Originally this was meant to be a one-time introductory workshop but the participants continue to ask for more so segments will continue until we reach advanced level methods. Contact Paul to get on the list since attendence is limited to the first 12 to reserve their spots. If you have not confirmed your attendance yet do so quickly as there are only a few available slots remaining. The cost is $100pp and will take place at the Hyattsvile location at 3811 Nicholson St, Hyattsvile MD. Paul may be reached at 301-651-3617 or at longmen987@gmail.com .

FIESTA ASIA STREET FESTIVAL

This yearly event which has run for 20 years in Washington DC, is a large event which showcases stages for music and dancing. It always has a large cordoned off area where martial arts demonstrations happen all day long. The weather was warm and sunny with a slight breeze when WST performed for spectators standing along all of the fences surrounding the performance area. We demonstrated Yang Tai Chi, Yang Broadsword, Bagua Deerhooks, a competition Tai Chi sword form, Old Yang, and Push hands. The crowd seemed to enjoy the performances judging from the applause.

The WST members who demonstrated were Julian Weaver, Toba Adewusi, Erik Dubois, Kristen Fang and Paul Ramos. The Festival had live music, various food and apparel vendors and Traditional dances from various countries. We will most likely demonstrate again next year.

MARTIAL UNITY SPECIAL TRAINING (M.U.S.T.) WORKSHOP

On May 17, 2026 the MUST group presented its next installment of its Bi-Annual Seminars in various aspects of Chinese Kung Fu. ShiYe Norman Smith presented an enjoyable block of instruction on Wing Chun fighting applications. Sifu Billy Greer presented a stimulating segment featuring Upright Grappling of Chinese Wrestling techniques. Sifu Paul Ramos presented Combat Swordplay drills and a free-sparring segment which was well liked by those present. It took place at the Jing Ying Academy in Annapolis MD. Over 2 dozen participants trained for the entire series which started at 10 AM and was completed at about 6 PM. Many favorable reactions were given and we cannot wait to organize and arrange our next segment at a date and time TBD.


 SHAOLIN KUNG FU


Wu Shen Tao offers training in traditional northern-style Chinese martial arts forms and techniques passed down through the Wudang Dragon Gate lineage, as well as Tien Shan Pai and other Shaolin styles. Sessions include intense physical workouts which build strength, balance, mind/body coordination, and skills for self-defense. Training is tailored to each individual, so beginners of all ages are welcome. Classes are led by Lao Shr Jeff Bandy who has taught our Shaolin program for more than a decade. If you are interested, or have questions, please reach us via email, wstkungfu@outlook.com

  • Kids Kung Fu at Liz Lerman Dance Exchange in Takoma Park), Thursdays 4:45-5:45pm and Saturdays 11:45-12:45pm

  • Adult/Teen Kung Fu - Contact us for details at wstkungfu@outlook.com


HYATTSVILLE LOCATION

Our Adult group classes are located in Hyattsville, MD. Our Community Tai Chi Push Hands gathering takes place there from 7:30-9:30 pm each Thursday evening. This free community gathering focuses on developing the skills of using the least amount of force to accomplish the maximum effect. This is known as the classic “Use softness to overcome hardness”.

On Saturdays from 9:00 am-10 am we train beginners. This is followed from 10-11 am by our Tai Chi Form and basics level 2 class. This is followed by Tai Chi Pushing Hands instruction at 11am. Beginning at 12 noon, we begin the Xing-I Chuan / Bagua Zhang training, as well as our advanced practitioner / specialized training block which runs until 1:30 PM.

Those wishing to train privately or semi-privately may do so at our Gaithersburg location at days and times agreed upon by both teacher and student. Call 301-651-3617 for more information.

The address for the group location is: 3811 Nicholson Street Hyattsville MD, 20782


QUOTES OF THE MONTH


My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.

Maya Angelou


At some point in our lives, we will all be broken and bruised — but we are not alone. We find joy together. We persevere together.

Dr. Jill Biden

The universe is full of magical things patiently waiting for our wits to grow sharper.

Eden Phillpotts


Shanghai China. Summer 1993

May 2026 Wu Shen Tao NEWS

UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS/ CLOSINGS

World Tai Chi Day -April 25 We had a large group doing Tai Chi to commemorate it

Fiesta Asia WDC event and demonstrations -May 16, 11am-7pm

Application Workshops- Jing Ying Academy -May 17, 2026, 9 am-6pm

Presidential Wu Shu Cup -June 27, 2026 , Rockville MD

ICMAC International Championships -July 17-19, 2026, Caribe Royal Resort, Orlando FLA

KuoShu International Championships -July 24-26, Rennaisance Resort, Baltimore Inner Harbor


TIEN SHAN PAI LEGACY TOURNAMENT

The Legacy event started the 2026 Tournament season with its annual offering which is a good warmup for upcoming events that generally begin in June. It includes external forms and Tai Chi empty hand, push hands, and weapons forms. It took place at the Notre Dame Prep Gymnasiun located at 815 Hampton Lane, Towson MD 21286. It is always good way for people with limited competition experience to perform in a smaller, less stressful environment. It’s also good for experienced competitors who want to see where their skills are currently so that they can work on any deficiencies prior to the main season events. There was a large group of competitors and the event lasted about 4 hours throughout 4 different rings. It was a good event and we encourage participation in next years event


WOMAN”S SELF DEFENSE WORKSHOP at GW UNIVERSITY

On April 20th, Wu Shen Tao instructor Jeff Bandy led a 90-minute Women’s Self Defense workshop at George Washington University. A member of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority reached out to WST and asked that we help to heighten defense skills and awareness for students. Lao Shi Jeff Bandy led the session of 10 young women through several scenarios which including grabs, chokes, hair-pulls, and bear-hugs to demonstrate how to create space from an attacker and deliver counter strikes in an effort to retreat to safety. In addition, a punch-dummy was included so participants could practice striking and kicking with full power. The high-energy group was engaged throughout the session and grew in confidence as they added proven self-defense strategies and techniques to their personal skill sets.

WST is often approached to do various seminars and workshops in subjects to include Tai Chi, Qigong, empty hand and weapons self defense, pushing hands, swordplay, various demonstrations and other health or martial related skills. Locations range from schools, job sites, community centers, and at outdoor events. We enjoy sharing our understandings with the surrounding community whenever possible

FIESTA ASIA STREET FESTIVAL

This yearly event which has run for 20 years in Washington DC, is a large event which showcases stages for music and cultural dancing. It always has a large cordoned off area where martial arts demonstrations happen all day long. WST has performed there for most of the events occurances and will do so again this year. Although we have not received our performance time slot as of this writing we usually demonstrate sometime beyween 11am and 2 pm. It also features a variety of food, clothing and vendors of other wares. It is located on Pennsylvania Avenue, WDC between 3rd and 6th streets NW on Saturday May 16th, 2026. It is a fine event and we look forward to attending, demo-ing, and eating some of the excellent foods offered. (fiestaasia.org)

MARTIAL UNITY SPECIAL TRAINING (M.U.S.T.) WORKSHOP

On May 17, 2026 the MUST group will present its next installment of its Bi-Annual Seminars in various aspects of Chinese Kung Fu. Sifu Norman Smith will present a block of instruction on Wing Chun fighting applications, Sifu Billy Greer will present Upright Grappling of Chinese Wrestling techniques, and Sifu Paul Ramos will present Combat Swordplay drills and a free-sparring segment. It will take place at the Jing Ying Academy in Annapolis MD and will begin at 9:30 am and continue all day. Participants should bring a wooden or foam sword, eye protection and casual attire. Price is $150 before May 1, $160 after May 1. For more information contact Sifu Greer at www.jingying.org or by * Registering for the Seminar:
https://cp.mystudio.io/e/?=JingYing/3031/812246//1774666328

SHAOLIN KUNG FU

Wu Shen Tao offers training in traditional northern-style Chinese martial arts forms and techniques passed down through the Wudang Dragon Gate lineage, as well as Tien Shan Pai and other Shaolin styles. Sessions include intense physical workouts which build strength, balance, mind/body coordination, and skills for self-defense. Training is tailored to each individual, so beginners of all ages are welcome. Classes are led by Lao Shr Jeff Bandy who has taught our Shaolin program for more than a decade. If you are interested, or have questions, please reach us via email, wstkungfu@outlook.com

  • Kids Kung Fu at Liz Lerman Dance Exchange in Takoma Park), Thursdays 4:45-5:45pm and Saturdays 11:45-12:45pm

  • Adult/Teen Kung Fu - Contact us for details at wstkungfu@outlook.com


HYATTSVILLE LOCATION

Our Adult group classes are located in Hyattsville, MD. Our Community Tai Chi Push Hands gathering takes place there from 7:30-9:30 pm each Thursday evening. This free community gathering focuses on developing the skills of using the least amount of force to accomplish the maximum effect. This is known as the classic “Use softness to overcome hardness”.

On Saturdays from 9:30 am-11am we continue with our Tai Chi Form and basics class followed by Tai Chi Pushing Hands instruction at 11am. Beginning at 12 noon, we begin the Xing-I Chuan / Bagua Zhang training, as well as our advanced practitioner / specialized training block which runs until 1:30 PM.

The address for the location is: 3811 Nicholson Street Hyattsville MD, 20782


 QUOTES OF THE MONTH

Being a great father is like shaving. No matter how good you shaved today, you have to do it again tomorrow.

Reed Markham,

That person is richest whose pleasures are the cheapest.

Henry David Thoreau

What the superior person seeks is in themself; what the small person seeks is in others.

Confucius