March 2025 WU SHEN TAO NEWS

SPECIAL EVENTS/ CLOSINGS

Kuoshu Legacy Tournament April 13, 9 am Notre Dame Prep Gym, Towson MD

May 17 & 18, 2025- M.U.S.T. Application Workshop, Jing Ying Academy, Annapolis ND

SWORDPLAY INTENSIVE WORKSHOP

On Saturday February 1, 2025 Wu Shen Tao hosted a Swordplay Intensive workshop. 12 participants spent 4 hours of hard work in fundamentals such as correct hand control, linear and circular footwork, direct and indirect attacks, combined offensive and defensive methods and drills and several solo and two person exercises. The aim was to help participants begin to understand the philosophies and methods of eastern and western swordplay. It took place at our Hyattsville location (3811 Nicholson Street, Hyattsville MD). The workshop ended with free sword sparring consisting of 4 minute rounds before moving on to the next opponent. Those present requested a part 2 within 3 months so the next segment will take place on May 3, 2025, also at the Hyattsville location.

MONTGOMERY MALL CHINESE NEW YEAR DEMO

On Saturday February 8, WST performed the closing demonstrations of martial arts at Montgomery Mall in Bethesda MD. Performances of Tai Chi, Bagua, Weapons forms, Baji Chuan and Shaolin kung fu ended their week long celebration of the start of Year of the Green Snake. Other demos such as Chen Man Ching Tai Chi, traditional dance, apparatus skills, and singing preceded us. We’d like to thank our Demo team of Stephen Genus , Kenny Chrzanowski, Toba Adewusi, Kristen Fang, Jeff Bandy, Erik Dubois, and Michael Kascic -Ramos for their efforts in coaching, videography, and demonstration efforts.

HYATTSVILLE LOCATION

Our Adult classes have moved from Takoma Park to 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 10 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 training block which runs until 2 PM.

The address for the location is:

3811 Nicholson Street

Hyattsville MD, 20782

Be aware that the space is on the right side of the residential building across the street from the Vanadu Museum.

Also be aware that the Children’s Kung Fu program will continue to take place at the Dance Exchange in Takoma Park on Saturdays from 11:45 AM -12:45 PM.

WU SHEN TAO-CLEAR CIRCLE TRAINING CENTER, GAITHERSBURG

The Clear Circle Training Center located at 329 B Main Street, Gaithersburg MD continues to host private and semi-private instruction throughout the week in a variety of health and internal martial arts disciplines. Instruction in Qigong, Tai Chi, Xing-I, Bagua, weapons, and self-defense training are just a few of the options available there. Call Paul to discuss your needs and schedule availability by calling 301-651-3617 or by emailing to Longmen987@gmail.com.

Scheduling for 2025 private and semi-private instruction is nearly completed and it is wise to schedule asap because there are only 3 available time slots left. More information may be obtained on our website: DCMDTaichi.com

QUOTES OF THE MONTH

You mustn't confuse a single failure with a final defeat.

F. Scott Fitzgerald

Until you’re ready to look foolish, you’ll never have the possibility of being great.

Cher

Happiness and the absurd are two sons of the same earth. They are inseparable.

Albert Camus

FEBRUARY 2025 WU SHEN TAO NEWS

SPECIAL EVENTS/ CLOSINGS

Swordplay Intensive Workshop- Saturday February 1, 2025

Wu Shen Tao Montgomery Mall Chinese New Year Demo February 8 2:15 pm

Presidents Day- Monday February 17 Federal Holiday- NO Classes

YEAR OF THE WOOD SNAKE

On Wednesday January 29, 2025 the Year of the Wood Snake begins. This period stands out for its wisdom, mystery, and transformation, emphasizing introspection, strategic planning, and personal growth. It will also be a year of change with ups and downs throughout the year. As per our custom we had a celebratory lunch that took place the afternoon of Saturday January 25th . Those who attended enjoyed a large banquet with various vegetarian and non-vegetarian traditional Chinese dishes. These delectable foods were served at the Sichuan Jin River Restaurant which, in our estimation, is one of the best Chinese Restaurants in the Rockville, MD area. The food and conversation was lively, interesting and fun and a good time was had by all. This annual gathering always features good Chinese food, good conversation, and good camaraderie.

SWORDPLAY INTENSIVE WORKSHOP

On Saturday February 1, 2025 WST will be hosting a Swordplay Intensive workshop. It will cover fundamentals such as correct hand control, linear and circular footwork, direct and indirect attacks, combined offensive and defensive self protective methods and drills and several solo and two person exercises that can help one to truly understand the philosophies and methods of eastern and western swordplay. No experience is necessary and many of the exercises and training methods may be adapted or directly used for short and long weapon applications as well. It will take place at our Hyattsville location (3811 Nicholson Street, Hyattsville MD) between 12 noon to 4 PM. Space is limited so the first 20 participants who register and who will be allowed to participate. Participants should bring a wooden or foam sword for practice and eye protection. Those wishing to order a wooden or foam sword ($25), for the event should say so when registering. Some weapons for sale will be available at the site. The cost of the Intensive is $100 up to January 25, 2025 or $120 at the door. Registration can be confirmed either by contacting Paul Ramos at longmen987@gmail.com or by calling directly at 301 651-3617.

MONTGOMERY MALL CHINESE NEW YEAR DEMO

On Saturday February 8 between 2-3 PM, WST will be doing the closing demonstrations of martial arts at Montgomery Mall in Bethesda MD. We will be performing Tai Chi, Bagua, Weapons form and applications to end their week long celebration of the Year of the Green Snake festivities. Other demos from other locations precede us so if your interested in seeing a few demos of Chinese martial arts come by starting at 1 pm. Hope to see you there!

WE MOURN THE PASSING OF OUR KUNG FU BROTHER PETER O’DAY

19th Generation Kung fu brother Peter O’Day returned to the Tao on January 27, 2025 while awaiting an organ transplant. He was a life long martial artist, a skilled craftsman in home remodeling, and a curious and fun member of the community. We already miss his smile and jokes and send massive condolences to his wife Carmen and his large family, friends and all of his martial family as well. He will be missed. A Celebration of Life will take place on February 8 beginning at 4pm. The location is at 3811 Nicholson Street, Hyattsville MD 20782. In lieu of sending flowers, donations may be sent to the Christmas in April organization, where Peter donated his time and resources to assist the elderly

HYATTSVILLE LOCATION

Our Adult classes have moved from Takoma Park to 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 10 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 training block which runs until 2 PM.

The address for the location is:

3811 Nicholson Street

Hyattsville MD, 20782

Be aware that the space is on the right side of the residential building across the street from the Vanadu Museum.

Also be aware that the Children’s Kung Fu program will continue to take place at the Dance Exchange in Takoma Park on Saturdays from 11:45 AM -12:45 PM.

WU SHEN TAO-CLEAR CIRCLE TRAINING CENTER, GAITHERSBURG

The Clear Circle Training Center located at 329 B Main Street, Gaithersburg MD continues to host private and semi-private instruction throughout the week in a variety of health and internal martial arts disciplines. Instruction in Qigong, Tai Chi, Xing-I, Bagua, weapons, and self-defense training are just a few of the options available there. Call Paul to discuss your needs and schedule availability by calling 301-651-3617 or by emailing to Longmen987@gmail.com.

Scheduling for 2025 private and semi-private instruction begins January 2, 2025 and it is wise to schedule asap because there are only 5 available time slots left. More information may be obtained on our website: DCMDTaichi.com

QUOTES OF THE MONTH

The chief prevention against getting old is to remain astonished.

Kevin Kelly

I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought; and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.

G.K. Chesterton

To judge a man by his weakest link or deed is like judging the power of the ocean by one wave.

Elvis Presley

JANUARY 2025 WU SHEN TAO NEWS

SPECIAL EVENTS/ CLOSINGS

Holiday Break- December 24-January 2, 2025- Happy Holidays!!

Martin Luther King Holiday- NO Classes January 20, 2025

Lunar New Year Year of the Snake 2025- Wednesday January 29, 2025

Swordplay Intensive Workshop- Saturday February 1, 2025

BEST WISHES TO ALL FOR 2025!

2024 was a tumultuous year of ups and downs for many people. We at Wu Shen Tao know many have faced hardships and changes in health, finances and in personal and family situations. The hope is that this year will bring greater stability and insight into ourselves and our potentials. As we know life can be be an adventure and adventures have positives and negative aspects within it. If we focus on maintaining a positive attitude and keep moving forward we make ourselves stronger and more able to cope with life’s issues as they come.

The definition of Kung Fu, as we know, is higher skills developed through hard work, perseverance, and time. We will need to apply this strategy to whatever life tosses at us. If we do we should emerge wiser and more fit to handle the next round of change. Change is a constant whether we like it or not but our mindset and will to evolve positively can win the day. The adventure continues!

YEAR OF THE WOOD SNAKE

On Wednesday January 29, 2025 the Year of the Wood Snake begins. This period stands out for its wisdom, mystery, and transformation, emphasizing introspection, strategic planning, and personal growth. As per our custom we will be having a celebratory lunch to take place the afternoon of Saturday January 25th beginning at 3:30 pm. Those wishing to attend will need to contact us to be put on a guest list to ensure the correct number of reservations. This annual gathering is laid back and features good Chinese food, good conversation, and good camaraderie.

SWORDPLAY INTENSIVE WORKSHOP

On Saturday February 1, 2025 WST will be hosting a Swordplay Intensive workshop. It will cover fundamentals such as correct hand control, linear and circular footwork, direct and indirect attacks, combined offensive and defensive self protective methods and drills and several solo and two person exercises that can help one to truly understand the philosophies and methods of eastern and western swordplay. No experience is necessary and many of the exercises and training methods may be adapted or directly used for short and long weapon applications as well. It will take place at our Hyattsville location (3811 Nicholson Street, Hyattsville MD) between 12 noon to 4 PM. Space is limited so the first 20 participants who register only will be allowed to participate. Participants should bring a wooden or foam sword for practice and eye protection. Those wishing to order a wooden sword ($25), for the event should say so when registering. The cost of the Intensive is $100 up to January 25, 2025 or $120 at the door. Registration can be confirmed either by contacting Paul Ramos at longmen987@gmail.com or by calling directly at 301 651-3617.

HYATTSVILLE LOCATION

Our Adult classes have moved from Takoma Park to 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 10 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 training block which runs until 2 PM.

The address for the location is:

3811 Nicholson Street

Hyattsville MD, 20782

Be aware that the space is on the right side of the residential building across the street from the Vanadu Museum.

Also be aware that the Children’s Kung Fu program will continue to take place at the Dance Exchange in Takoma Park on Saturdays from 11:45 AM -12:45 PM.

WU SHEN TAO-CLEAR CIRCLE TRAINING CENTER, GAITHERSBURG

The Clear Circle Training Center located at 329 B Main Street, Gaithersburg MD continues to host private and semi-private instruction throughout the week in a variety of health and internal martial arts disciplines. Instruction in Qigong, Tai Chi, Xing-I, Bagua, weapons, and self-defense training are just a few of the options available there. Call Paul to discuss your needs and schedule availability by calling 301-651-3617 or by emailing to Longmen987@gmail.com.

Scheduling for 2025 private and semi-private instruction begins January 2, 2025 and it is wise to schedule asap because there are only 5 available time slots left. More information may be obtained on our website: DCMDTaichi.com

QUOTES OF THE MONTH

Do not follow the path. Go where there is no path to begin a trail. African Proverb

When we recall the past, we usually find that it is the simplest things — not the great occasions — that in retrospect give off the greatest glow of happiness. Bob Hope, comedian and actor

Always keep your smile. That's how I explain my long life. Jeanne Calment, - supercentenarian

DECEMBER 2024 WU SHEN TAO NEWS

SPECIAL EVENTS/ CLOSINGS

Holiday Break- December 24-January 2, 2025- Happy Holidays!!

Martin Luther King Holiday- NO Classes January 20, 2025

Lunar New Year Year of the Snake 2025- Wednesday January 29, 2025

Tai Chi Push Hands Fall Retreat

The Tampa Bay Martial Arts group hosted its 12th Annual Fall Tai Chi Push Hands retreat in Lakelands, Florida. It took place at the Maddox Ranch the weekend of November 22-25, 2024. The event began with a group welcome dinner at the Mojo Federal Restaurant where about 45 people attended for food and to meet and greet. Our MD- DC group consisted of 9 people who attend the weekly Thursday night push hands open workout in Hyattsville. They were Alexander King, Thomas Roosens, Paul Ramos, Dante Gilmer, Stephen Genus, Toba Adewusi, Michael Kascic-Ramos, Erik Dubois and James LaCroix.

Saturday began at 8 AM with breakfast and push hands which continued until 5 PM. A casual lunch and dinner was also provided at the food tent near a stage area. This was followed a bit later with a bonfire where people had conversation, some drumming and dance, and had the opportunity to get warm by the fire. Sunday also began at 8 AM with a continental breakfast and push hands until 3 PM.

The weather was a cool 70 degrees with a fluctuating breeze which was preferable to last years’ warm and muggy experience. The participants were friendly and looking to assess their push hands skills with most leaving their egos at home. Some participants from last year returned while there were also many new people to meet and share with. It seemed like up to about 50 participants were pushing at any given time. At least half of the group were teachers with various amounts of experience. There was a universal agreement among the entire group that the event was enjoyable from a social, martial, and educational perspective.

Adding to the enjoyment was that the 9 of us shared a large comfortable, well appointed house for the weekend where we all had a bed to sleep in and outdoor spaces to enjoy around the house as well. All in all, our group enjoyed the trip, the camaraderie, the pushing, the participants and the environment. Some have already spoke of returning next year and we will set up a trip for November 2025. If you’re interested in going with us set aside time to attend next mid-month November’s event. It promises to be fun and informative.

Tha Maddox Farm/ Ranch, Lakelands Florida

The Welcoming Dinner at the Mojo Federal Restaurant and Bar , Lakelands Florida

YEAR OF THE WOOD SNAKE

On Wednesday January 29, 2025 the Year of the Wood Snake begins. This period stands out for its wisdom, mystery, and transformation, emphasizing introspection, strategic planning, and personal growth. As per our custom we will be having a celebratory lunch to take place the afternoon of Saturday February 1 at a time and location to be confirmed in the January 2025 Newsletter.

HYATTSVILLE LOCATION

Our Adult classes have moved from Takoma Park to 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 10 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 training block which runs until 2 PM.

The address for the location is:

3811 Nicholson Street

Hyattsville MD, 20782

Be aware that the space is on the right side of the residential building across the street from the Vanadu Museum.

Also be aware that the Children’s Kung Fu program will continue to take place at the Dance Exchange in Takoma Park on Saturdays from 11:45 AM -12:45 PM.

WU SHEN TAO-CLEAR CIRCLE TRAINING CENTER, GAITHERSBURG

The Clear Circle Training Center located at 329 B Main Street, Gaithersburg MD continues to host private and semi-private instruction throughout the week in a variety of health and internal martial arts disciplines. Instruction in Qigong, Tai Chi, Xing-I, Bagua, weapons, and self-defense training are just a few of the options available there. Call Paul to discuss your needs and schedule availability by calling 301-651-3617 or by emailing to Longmen987@gmail.com. More information may be obtained on our website: DCMDTaichi.com

QUOTES OF THE MONTH

It’s better to look ahead and prepare, than to look back and regret.

Jackie Joyner-Kersee

The smallest deed is better than the grandest intention.

Anonymous

In the depths of Winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.

Albert Camus