Martialforce.com Online Magazine
PRESENTS
THE
KUROSHI-DO SYSTEM
THIRTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY DINNER & CELEBRATION
By Lydia Alicea and William Rivera Kyoshi
The Original Kuroshi Group
It began with an invitation to a banquet, but, as the night progressed, it became an event where everyone in attendance witnessed history in the making.
On Saturday, November 15, 2009, The Kuroshi-Do System celebrated its 35th anniversary in the Phoenix Ballroom at the Sheraton LaGuardia Hotel in New York City.
The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and respect towards one another, students, Masters, friends and family alike. The much-anticipated event was an out-and-out success, exhibiting the best of what the martial arts represents.
The Master of Ceremony was Kyoshi Laron “Nekosan” McKoy. Skillfully, he managed to create, from a formal and ceremonial event, a relaxing atmosphere making the audience feel right at home. In a room filled with many martial arts legends in attendance, guests seized the opportunity to meet and catch up with old friends as well as make new acquaintances.
Soke Papasan S. Canty charmed all with his enthusiasm and humor as well as his uncanny ability to make one feel as if they are the most important person in the room. Soke Haisan Kaleak, the heart and soul of the event, exemplified through his qualities of what it is to be an “Ambassador” of the Martial Arts.
The event began with the introduction of the founders of Kuroshi-Do: Soke Steve Alston, Soke Papasan S. Canty, Soke Haisan Kaleak. As each one was addressed, the audience felt the essential components of the martial arts: Sincerity, Courtesy, and Humility, in addition to the power that makes Kuroshi-Do an exceptional system. As Soke Haisan Spoke of the Kuroshi-do history talking about the original five members of the Kuroshi group, Salim Al Rashid had just entered the front door completing the group. One member Soke Haisan mentioned had passed away which was Kenneth “The Boss” Cooper.
Highlights of the evening included a vocal performance by Marlem Thomas who captivated all with her voice and style, to the acknowledgement of many notable martial artists in attendance and Amaany Powell who performed an acapella song as a tribute to her Grandfather, Great Grand Master Moses Powell.
After the dinner segment, students Emmanuel “Kiyoki” Dickens and Jason “Bukai” Banks treated guests with an amazing demonstration. It culminated with their promotions to Shodan (First Degree Black Belt) presented to them by the founders of Kuroshi-Do.
Some of the luminaries we enjoyed talking to were Grand Master Sam McGee, Professor Jonathan Stewart, Master Kelly Rice, Shihan Alfred Hinds , Publisher Deborah Payne, Shihan George Bonet , Professor James Simms, Professor Earnest Miles, Hanshi Rick Diaz, Grandmaster Mcbride, Professor Safallah and the ever-entertaining Hanshi Wilfredo Roldan to name a few.
SEMINARS
We salute the Kuroshi Group for creating Kuroshi-Do
We look forward to next year, Ush!