Laosi

I need to send a big thank you to my assistant instructors. Here at the school we call them Laosi (la-o-shur). This is the name for teacher in Chinese. In Pound Ridge we have two very talented and trusted Laosi. They are Chacho Guenancia and Nicholas Giori. Both young men are far beyond their years in wisdom and, of course, excellent martial artist. Even though we try to keep our classes from getting too crowded, these guys would have no problem teaching a class of any given size. The kids love them and the adults respect them. They certainly live by the martial arts code of ethics and I cannot be any prouder. I have had other assistants in the past but I must give these two gentlemen a big hand for their effort, hard work, and meaning that they put into all they do! They truly are a pleasure to have around.

Chacho (Charles) Guenancia. Chacho has been my student for almost 10years now! I remember him as a young child just a bundle of joy. I always looked forward to teaching him as I knew he enjoyed and always appreciated the instruction.
One of my fondest memories of him was years ago when he tested for his Jr. Black Belt. He was sick as a dog! But nothing, and I mean nothing was going to stop that kid from becoming a Jr. Black Belt! He proved his tenacity and perseverance that day. The true martial arts spirit. I felt so bad at the after party. We had food and beverages for all who passed their exam and we even had the local newspaper come out and interview some of the kids that tested. Chacho couldn't hang around because he felt so sick.
This tenacity follows him everywhere. I see it in the way he studies and the way that hi is a great son, brother, instructor, student, and friend.
Thank you Chacho and you deserve all of life's good fortune!

Nicholas Giori. Nicholas came to us from the Milford school and has had a great attitude from the beginning. Great student! Always involved in all kinds of activities. The guy keeps himself busy! Everyone that meets him just can't get enough of him. His future is definitely in the teaching business. He is a people person and enjoys the company of both adults and children.
Unlike Chacho, Nick has had many different martial arts instructors. Sensei Jay, in Milford, is his current instructor and on occasion I am also. He really enjoys taking class with both Jay and I and both truly feel blessed to have him in our company. Nick can always be trusted to lead a group to higher ground.
Thank you Nick and you deserve all of life's good fortune!