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August 7, 2010

Street Smarts Violence Prevention Youth Workshop: A Tae Kwon Do Approach, Bladensburg, Maryland

Dr. Thomas held a youth workshop on street smarts and practical self-defense for a group comprised mostly of young women who play basketball at the Bladensburg Community Center on Saturday, August 7. The participants were surprised at what they did not know when it comes to defending themselves both on the street and on the court. For example, a simple technique of rolling to gain ground when running away from an attacker could save their lives, or being able to roll and not get hurt could save them from injuries they might suffer from a fall on the court. Or, on the street or in other locations, such as in school, being able to effectively fight off an attacker from a position on the ground. To demonstrate another useful method of self-defense, Dr. Thomas showed how a cane can be used very effectively to deter or fight off an attacker.

June 26, 2010

Columbia Park/Kentland Community Center Health Fair

Another hot day with an exciting demonstration by the Ramblers! They performed at the Columbia Park/Kentland Community Center Health Fair, which is held every year. Several free health screenings were available and free goodie bags and brochures with important health-related information were distributed. What about encouraging exercise and active living? In addition to the Ramblers, another attraction was line dancing instruction that kept the place jumping with good music and lots of fun (and healthy) movement. Dr. Thomas is always pleased to bring his students to events such as these because of his own concern about and commitment to contributing to the community in a positive way. What could be better than trying to keep people healthy and active?

June 12, 2010

Annual Edmonston Day

It was a hot, hot, hot, and humid day in the Port Towns, but the Ramblers braved the heat to give an energetic performance for the crowd on the occasion of the annual Edmonston Day event. Dr. Thomas was honored to be invited by Edmonston Council Member Robert Kerns on behalf of the town's Recreation Council. He appreciated being warmly welcomed by Mayor Adam Ortiz and Council Member Tracy Farrish. Rambler students demonstrated their skills in open-hand and weapons forms and participated in a demonstration by Dr. Thomas of simple self-defense techniques using a cane. After the performance, Dr. Thomas, who heads the Safety Action Team of the Port Towns Community Health Partnership, invited the audience to attend a forum in the Edmonston Recreation Hall to discuss views and concerns about safety in the Port Towns of Bladensburg, Colmar Manor, Cottage City, and Edmonston. Safety is an important aspect of healthy eating and active living, which are the goals the partnership is striving to achieve through its work. Also featured at Edmonston Day were a parachute adventure, a moon bounce obstacle course, lasertag, a 45-foot high titanic slide, pony and firetruck rides, and a trackless train. There was also a car, truck, and motorcyle show; a Prince George's County helicopter and a U.S. Capitol police Medivac helicopter flew in for people to look at and learn about; and a Lion's Club command bus provided free hearing and vision exams. To top it off, there were funnel cakes and the very popular Smokey the locomotive train barbecue often featured at events held in Washington, D.C.

May 1, 2010

Cinco de Mayo Celebration in the Town of Bladensburg

The Ramblers are a highly-anticipated attraction at Bladensburg's Cinco de Mayo Celebration, and once again did not disappoint. The temperature was soaring and it was a very hot and sunny day. With the assistance of a wonderful bilingual host at the mic, Dr. Thomas was able to explain the meaning of the demonstrations of forms and weapons to the many Spanish speakers in the audience. No one, however, could miss the excitement of the action that needed no translation. Dr. Thomas also showed simple self-defense methods using a cane ("cane do"). Among other featured entertainers were music and dance groups Aztlan, Grupo Escalante, Kilatez Musical, Larry L., De Colores, Katadore Musical, Kare Mi Pueblo, and a talented belly dancer. The good food topped off the event, which was by all accounts another great success with its cultural and language mix that reflects the wonderful diversity of Bladensburg and the Port Towns.

April 24, 2010

Get Fit! Get Moving! Health & Fitness Expo

Dr. Thomas and a stalwart group of his Rambler students and their families braved the chilly, rainy weather to come out to this Port Towns expo at Bladensburg Waterfront Park that focused on healthy living. Although the crowd was smaller than anticipated because of the unexpected downturn in the weather, the audience appreciated seeing the Ramblers of different belt levels in action, doing basic martial arts training exercises, handily executing open-hand forms, and showcasing their skills with weapons. Dr. Thomas also demonstrated simple self-defense methods using a cane ("cane do").

March 4, 2010

Death of Grandmaster "Lady Dragon" Abbey Wilson Griffin's Daughter

The Tae Kwon Do Ramblers' family sends its deepest sympathies to Grandmaster "Lady Dragon" Abbey Wilson Griffin on the passing of her daughter, Coleatha (Coley) Maria Wilson. Coley was born on May 1, 1990, in Baltimore, Maryland. She began her educational journey in the Baltimore school system. She graduated with honors from Paul Laurence Dunbar High School in 2008. Coley was accepted by ten universities but chose Towson University. She was a second semester sophomore at Towson but had already made a big impact on many other people during her time on campus. She was studying the social sciences and had an interest in psychology. During her freshman year, she participated in the SAGE mentorship program, which is designed to partner first year students with upper division students to support their success. Coley worked as a community assistant in one of the residence halls on campus. In addition, she was involved with the Black Student Union, one of Towson's largest and most active student organizations. Coley's motto was, "if you believe it, you will achieve it." The Ramblers honor her life and send our prayers to Lady Dragon and her family.

February 19, 2010

Tae Kwon Do Ramblers' Donation to Yele Haiti

The Tae Kwon Do Ramblers' family sent a donation to Yele Haiti to help Haitians in the aftermath of the recent devastating earthquake. The Ramblers considered a number of organizations, but decided to contribute to this organization because its mission and vision align most closely with those of the Tae Kwon Do Ramblers. Yele Haiti's ongoing efforts to promote and sustain education, health, the environment, and community development are notable and the Ramblers hope they will continue to be fruitful for both the rebuilding of Haiti and the benefit of its citizens. The following individuals/families made donations: Abraham, Blair, Brown, Chang, Ellis, George, Gorham, Gray, Hinton, Hornberger, Johnson, Martinez, Mars, McCutchen, McKeown, Muhammad, Nichloas, Seemangel, Thomas, Upshur, Williams, and Wisher.

December 5, 2009

Ramblers' Awards Banquet and Fellowship Gathering, Bladensburg, Maryland

On Saturday, December 5, the Ramblers' fellowship gathering/awards banquet and the first snow of the season coincided to create the perfect atmosphere for a meaningful and enjoyable event. Dr. Thomas gave certificates for special achievement; improved student; 2008-2009 honor roll student; outstanding katas, fighters, and weapons; true guts; outstanding peewee; junior instructor; and youth and adult leading by example. Stand-up dads and super moms were honored for the love and support they give to their children. Grandparents Patricia Ellis and Victoria Findlay were awarded Dr. Thomas' prestigious honorary black belt rank for the love and rearing of children and grandchildren. The outstanding service award was given to Ms. Patricia Wilson in honor of and appreciation for her years of unselfish service to the Rambler organization, and she was presented a bouquet of roses from the children who were gathered on the floor by Dr. Thomas to make the presentation.

Dr. Thomas lauded special guest black belts Bruce Goodwin, Jr., Phil Anderson, and Larry Gholson for promoting martial arts and fellowship, and for having significantly contributed to the betterment of martial arts and the edification of other communities about “The Way of the Martial Artist." Of special note, black belt Professor Bruce Goodwin was given the 2009 Humanitarian Award for these same achievements, with Dr. Thomas recognizing him in addition for his positive impact, acts of heroism, promotion of fellowship, dedication to the martial arts, academic advancements or contributions, diplomatic endeavors, and community contributions. Because of their dedication, there are more positive leaders for our youth today. Professor Goodwin gratefully acknowledged the awards given to him and his black belts, indicating that the Rambler students and their families should fully appreciate and take advantage of the remarkable skills, dedication to the martial arts, humanity and commitment to the community, and entertaining sense of humor brought by Dr. Thomas. He remarked that Dr. Thomas is a true friend who not only talks about loyalty but demonstrates it through his commitments to the Ramblers and others. These sentiments were underscored by the spontaneous expression of appreciation by the students, who descended on the floor to thank Dr. Thomas with a group hug.

The food was delicious and everyone had his or her fill, with parents graciously helping to set up, serve, and clean up. A delicious fruit salad led to a variety of main dishes (meatballs, noodle dishes, macaroni and cheese, chicken both roasted and fried, to name a few), followed by desserts, many homemade from scratch. The tables decorated with the school colors and the backdrop of snow seen drifting down outside made it a festive occasion.

The finale was a talent show judged by three of the black belt honorees. A. Hornberger played the guitar and sang a song she had written. K. Gorham and A. Hornberger performed a song from the Cheetah Girls. A. Clement, dressed as Frederick Douglass, read a report he had written about Mr. Douglass, and performed a dramatic recitation of a poem written by him. E. Hernandez danced to a Michael Jackson song and his moves were so remarkably evocative of the artist that his performance brought the audience to its feet clapping and cheering. Last but not least, M. Clement, in dancer's costume and with feet skilfully punctuating the wide variety of steps in her dance routine, tapped her way into the audience's heart. A. Clement, E. Hernandez, and M. Clement were caught in a three-way tie for first place, but all were so popular that the audience demanded they all be declared the winners. Everyone who participated received a special prize. As the event wound down, Dr. Thomas thanked everyone and expressed his appreciation to those families who came out to show their support for the organization.

September 26, 2009

TKD Ramblers Street Smarts Safety Program, Bladensburg, Maryland

Dr. Thomas gave two focused seminars on street smarts to parents and children and to girls and women at the Bladensburg Community Center on Saturday, September 26. The participants in the interactive seminars learned valuable tips that may be useful should they be accosted by someone who wishes to harm or steal from them. They also learned a few of the many self-defense techniques he teaches in his classes, which he encourages both children and adults to attend on a regular basis to learn much more. Dr. Thomas emphasized that any technique must be practiced to the point that it becomes an automatic reaction to an adverse circumstance. He looks forward to giving more such seminars in the future.

September 19, 2009

Port Towns Day 2009: Go Natural. You're Organic., Bladensburg, Maryland

Port Towns Day 2009 was a well-organized, variety-filled event brought to the community by the Towns of Bladensburg, Colmar Manor, Cottage City, and Edmonston and the Port Towns Community Development Corporation. This year's theme encouraged "Port Towns' residents to resist conformity, processed goods and services, and instant gratification; but instead to act natural in mind, body, and soul-fostering originality." Kaiser Permanente is a major sponsor of Port Towns Day and supports the Port Towns Community Health Partnership, a collaboration among Kaiser, the Port Towns Community, and the Consumer Health Foundation. Dr. Thomas and his Ramblers also support the event each year by demonstrating the importance of physical activity and mental strength. This year he and his talented youth demonstration team from ages four through teenagers showed well-executed tae kwon do empty-hand and weapons forms. The highlight of the performance was board breaking executed by a four-year-old student who wowed the crowd with his skill. After their demonstration, Rambler students fanned out to participate in the many activities and watch other performances, and they thoroughly enjoyed the rest of the day. One young Rambler student in particular brought the crowd to its feet with his remarkable dance routine to Michael Jackson music. DJ Frank Evans and DJ A1 Mix provided an entertaining mix of music, which enhanced the scheduled musical performances by the Proverbs (Caribbean and reggae music), Hall Brothers (country/rock music), Inpkble Band (Latino music), Part Harmony A Capella (smooth soul/Motown music), Fauz Paz and (a capella), and Kool K (jazz). Dance groups included the Colours, DC Show Biz, and Zumba Dance. Evolution of Children and Ambition and Big Zues rapped. Watkins Nature Center staff brought amazing and beautiful rescued birds of prey (hawk, owls) for the audience to see and learn about. Children and adults hoola-hooped in a remarkable endurance contest hosted by Bladensburg Community Center's own Steve Ellis and Shawn Cosby from Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning. The many vendors provided good food, other goods, and useful information about healthy lifestyles. Dr. Thomas and the Ramblers were pleased to be invited to add another exciting element to this yearly event that brings together the Port Towns community and has as its goal bettering the lives of its citizens.

September 12, 2009

Bladensburg/Mexican Independence and Central America Independence Day, Bladensburg, Maryland

The Latino community and fellow Bladensburgers partied hearty during the daylong Mexican Independence and Central America Independence celebration on Bladensburg Day 2009. Dr. Thomas and his skillful Ramblers' student demonstration team were warmly welcomed and enthusiastically applauded when they took the stage and were spotlighted during the entertainment extravaganza accentuated by a series of lively and crowd-pleasing bands. Dr. Thomas appreciated the emcee translating his presentation into Spanish and taking the time to introduce each Rambler student to make the event special for them. A few of the dignitaries in attendance were Bladensburg Mayor Walter James and Town Council members, including Cris Mendoza, who spearheaded the planning committee that organized this outstanding event, and Maryland Senator David Harrington (47th District), who comes out at every opportunity to show his support for the communities in his district. Dr. Thomas and his students were proud to perform and participate in this celebration of Bladensburg and look forward to returning next year to support the town's diverse and vibrant community.

August 15, 2009

"Community First" Family Fun Day, Bladensburg, Maryland

Dr. Thomas and several Rambler students and their families came out for the "Community First" free family fun day hosted by Maryland State Senator David C. Harrington of the 47th Legislative District, which includes Bladensburg. The event was held at the Bladensburg Waterfront Park. The goals of Community First are to (1) educate the community on the process of state government; (2) motivate the community to design policy and laws which can positively affect neighborhoods in the 47th District; and (3) liberate the community from the structures of government, so that citizens can take on higher levels of leadership in addressing their own concerns in state government (see website http://www.davidharrington.org/ for more details). Dr. Thomas has led by example for many years as a community activist and supports the Community First efforts. He involves the Ramblers in as many local events as possible to involve his students more fully in the broader community of which we are all citizens.

August 14-15, 2009

Alley Cats--A Broadway Musical, 30th Anniversary Production, Washington, DC

About 60 talented young people from the Washington area appeared in this anniversary production of the Northeast Performing Arts Group (NEPAG), which featured elaborate feline costumes made by the parents and performers. The young performers of all ages danced to complicated choreography in this outstanding production. Dr. Thomas has been involved with and supported NEPAG for many years and has seen children, many of whom were also his students, grow into adulthood. When you lend your support to organizations that give local young people the opportunity to work together in positive activities, think of NEPAG, 3431 Benning Road, NE, Washington, DC 20019, telephone: 202-388-1274, website: www.nepag.net (Rita Jackson, President and Executive Director).

August 1, 2009

The New United Baptist Church Health Fair, Washington, DC

On Saturday, August 1, the Ramblers were invited to give a demonstration at the NUBC Health Fair. It was a hot day, but the community came out in force to the fair at which helpful information and good food and music were offered to the neighborhood residents. They were impressed by the skills demonstrated by students A. Clement, W. Brogsdale, and K. Hinton, as well as by the presentation of simple self-defense methods dramatized by Dr. Thomas and adult student "stuntman" G. Clement that also engaged volunteers from the audience. The spectators were enthusiastic in their reception, and NUBC pastor Rev. Arthur J. Patterson and his congregation appreciated that Dr. Thomas and his students are supportive of the community and take the time to participate in local events. For their part, the Ramblers are anxious to make a positive contribution by sharing their knowledge and encouraging others to become part of an organization that makes a difference.

July 18, 2009

"Jumpin' Back 2 Health" Youth Health Fair, Bladensburg, Maryland

On Saturday, July 18, Dr. Thomas and several Rambler students provided an exciting demonstration at the Bladensburg Community Center youth health fair. In addition to the Ramblers demonstration, the fair boasted many other activities for youth ages 6 to 17, including a performance by a local step team, free healthy alternative foods, Wii and active video games, a moon bounce, roller skating, and good music. Maryland State Senator David Harrington (District 42) and Bladensburg Mayor Walter James dropped by to lend their support to this positive community event. After watching a short series of simple self-defense moves entertainingly demonstrated by Dr. Thomas, Senator Harrington surprised both Dr. Thomas and the audience by volunteering to test out some of them for himself. To the delight of the audience, he learned firsthand that the methods taught by Dr. Thomas can be very effective. Everyone had a great time at this well-organized and well-attended event, which demonstrated the importance of eating healthy foods and becoming involved in physical activities both to stay fit and to have fun.

September 20, 2008

Port Towns Day 2008: Destination Health, Bladensburg, Maryland

On Saturday, September 20, the Ramblers brought excitement to the annual Port Towns Day, which was held at Bladensburg Waterfront Park. Dr. Thomas once again displayed his crowd-pleasing emcee talents as he highlighted the abilities of his students during their demonstration of forms and weapons skills for the large crowd. Several students of different belt levels, from white to brown, showed that the Ramblers are indeed the best around! Later in the day, Dr. Thomas not only entertained a group of seniors, but also demonstrated for them practical self-defense methods and provided a few basic safety tips that could save their lives.

August 2, 2008

Tribute to Kyoshi Robert E. Everhart

On August 2, 2008, Kyoshi Robert E. Everhart, an esteemed martial artist and Dr. Thomas' longtime friend and colleague, was laid to rest at Fort Lincoln Cemetery in Hyattsville, Maryland. He died on Sunday, July 27, at the age of 58. He held the rank of 8th degree black belt and established Everhart's Nippon Kenpo Karate Do and Tutoring Center on Capital Hill, as well as Everhart's Trophy and Awards. He was rated among the top karate competitors on the entire East Coast. Dr. Thomas respected Kyoshi Everhart as a martial artist, an entrepreneur, a visionary, and a friend. Kyoshi Everhart imparted to Dr. Thomas his knowledge and insights on how to run a successful organization. Dr. Thomas also learned from him how to run successful tournaments, and was pleased to bring a contingent of Ramblers to participate in tournaments organized by Kyoshi Everhart. Dr. Thomas appreciated Kyoshi Everhart's dedication to producing trophies and awards marked by excellent workmanship, which he regularly purchased and which were sought by martial artists througout the region. Kyoshi Everhart was a martial artist and a man who led by example, and he will be sorely missed. Dr. Thomas and the Ramblers send their condolences to his family.

June 28, 2008

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Health Fair & NAR Centennial Walk, Silver Spring, Maryland

On Saturday, June 28, Dr. Thomas brought several of his students of different ages and belt levels to the sorority's health fair for a demonstration of martial arts skills, forms, and self-defense methods for people of all ages, including seniors. He indicated he will continue to work with the sorority and develop seminars for more in-depth training.

May 24, 2008

Tae Kwon Do Ramblers' Awards Banquet and Talent Show, Bladensburg, Maryland

On Saturday, May 24, the Ramblers celebrated the 2007-2008 Awards Banquet and Talent Show. Despite the Memorial Day weekend, a crowd came out for the event at the Bladensburg Community Center and had a good time all around! The pot luck was a taste treat with something (a lot of it!) for everyone from appetizers through desserts. Dr. Thomas thanked everyone who contributed these delightful dishes. Led by Pat Wilson, a group of volunteers organized and set out the food, served it, and cleaned up afterward. Dr. Thomas thanked them for their hard work, along with others who assisted in this successful Ramblers' team effort by setting up tables and chairs and did whatever else was needed. These events don't happen by themselves, and the way everyone pitched in made it clear the Ramblers lead by example! Noting their work as his volunteer assistants in organizational business throughout the year, Dr. Thomas again thanked Ms. Wilson and Susan McCutchen for their ongoing contributions. Dr. Thomas presented certificates to his talented students--special achievement, true guts, outstanding fighter, honor roll student, youth and adult leading by example, and junior instructor. Ten outstanding students in three age groups were honored with beautiful silver cups trophies--R. Cabrera, A. Christian, A. Clement, L. Graves, E. Hernandez, A. Hornberger, J. Martinez, N. Potts, M. Sanders, and A. Seemangel. Super Moms and Stand Up Dads were honored, and their certificates were presented to them by their children, who publicly thanked their parents for all they have done for them. Several grandparents--Sandra Abrams, Marian Fitch, Sharon Graham, Joan and William Kaczor, Samuel and Janice Nicholas, James Plummer, and Melbourne Williams--were awarded honorary black belt status by Dr. Thomas, who noted that these individuals not only have raised their own children, but are helping raise their grandchildren. Bladensburg Community Center staff Lori Smith, Steve Ellis, Rodney Griffin, Ellis Taylor, and James Cox were presented with leading by example certificates to thank them for their strong support of the Ramblers program. The highlight of the afternoon without a doubt came with the tremendously entertaining talent show. It was one not to be forgotten, with impressive yo-yo and a hulahoop demonstrations, musicians who played the trumpet and a dulcimer, and four talented dancers, including a step performer. Dr. Thomas awarded a new uniform to all the talented contestants; a bow set to those placing second, third, and fourth; and an official pair of martial arts shoes to the first place winner.

May 4, 2008

Cinco de Mayo Celebration, Bladensburg, Maryland

On Sunday, May 4, a team of Tae Kwon Do Ramblers' students gave a demonstration for the revelers at the Bladensburg Cinco de Mayo Celebration held at Bladensburg Town Hall. It was a beautiful day and a joyful celebration with great music from a talented deejay and guest bands, dancing, and good food. Bladensburg Council member Cris Mendoza hosted this successful community event, with the support of Bladensburg Council officials, including Mayor Walter James and Council members Walter Ficklin and Charlina Watson (who all stepped out in style for this special event), police officials, and hardworking event staff. The Clement family--T. Simpson-Clement (Rambler student), C. Simpson (former Rambler student), and A. Clement (Rambler student), are shown below at the event (extracted from poster at http://bladensburg.com/doc/CincodeMayoPOSTER.pdf).

April 19, 2008

Diabetes & Obesity Awareness and Prevention Campaign Kick Off, Bladensburg, Maryland

On Saturday, April 19, the Tae Kwon Do Ramblers helped kick off the regional Diabetes & Obesity Awareness and Prevention Campaign at the Bladensburg Waterfront Park. Dr. Thomas and a large group of his students of all ages demonstrated their skills in the basics, forms, and board breaking. They also supported their kick off event partners by taking part in the various fitness activities throughout the park, such as Crossfit's obstacle course rowing machines and other basic and challenging physical fitness equipment and exercises. On hand to enjoy the impressive Ramblers in action were Maryland State Senator David Harrington, Andrea Harrison (candidate running for the seat of former Prince George's County Council member Harrington), and Bladensburg Mayor Walter James and Council member Cris Mendoza. The Community Health Iniative, the host of this event, is a partnership among Kaiser Permanente, the Anacostia Watershed Society, the Port Towns Community Development Corporation, End Time Harvest Ministries, and the towns of Bladensburg, Colmar Manor, Cottage City, and Edmonston. The first photo below shows Dr. Thomas (on the right) with Bladensburg Mayor Walter James. In the second photo, Dr. Thomas and his advanced belt students observe a group open-hand form. Also shown is a group bow form.

March 22, 2008

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Self-Defense Demonstration, Silver Spring, Maryland

On Saturday, March 22, Dr. Thomas gave an exhilarating demonstration for the Theta Omega Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. With the able assistance of two of his adult students, Greg Clement and Thalia Simpson-Clement, he astounded the audience with hands-on examples of simple self-defense methods that can be used by ordinary people. Afterward, he was awarded a handsomely framed "Certificate of Special Recognition, Community Service Award presented to Clifford Thomas PhD by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Theta Omega Omega Chapter." Dr. Thomas very much appreciated receiving this recognition and will continue to work with the sorority to develop seminars in his efforts to make our community a better place in which to live.

February 23, 2008

Mardi Gras Celebration, Bladensburg, Maryland

August 7, 2007

National Nights Out, Bladensburg and Silver Spring, Maryland

Dr. Clifford Thomas was invited to appear as a special guest at two National Night Out events in two Maryland counties--Bladensburg (Prince George's) and Silver Spring (Montgomery). He underscored his commitment to the betterment of our local communities by demonstrating simple self-defense techniques and offering potentially life-saving tips to encourage citizens to be proactive should they be attacked by those intending to harm them. His first demonstration, at Bladensburg's Town Hall's outside event, was well attended despite the heat. His second, for a large, enthusiastic crowd reluctant to let him leave the stage, was in the main activity room of the Coffield Community Center in Silver Spring. After the second demonstration, Dr. Thomas was surprised and honored by Ms. Patricia Tyson, the program coordinator, who presented him with a special acknowledgment to mark the importance of his tireless community work. He was thanked for making "this an enjoyable evening to celebrate the absence of crime and the simple rules of safety for our protection and well being." His tribute of appreciation further read: "Your contribution to this program is a visible sign to us of your interest and concern in helping our communities, our law enforcement agencies, and county government agencies accent the importance of crime-free neighborhoods that build strong healthy families and thereby help produce good neighborhoods and quality leaders for the future."

For a description of Silver Spring's National Nights Out, go to Montgomery County Gazette, August 15, 2007

Click on this link for the full report of Bladensburg's 2007 National Night Out

Below is a montage of photos from Bladensburg's National Night Out. Dr. Thomas, in uniform, is shown in the center photo of the bottom row. (Section of photos from Bladensburg National Night Out 2007_NNO_Report_and_Review.pdf.)

February 24, 2007

Mardi Gras Celebration, Bladensburg, Maryland

November 16, 2006

Girls Inc. of Washington, D.C., Event at Garnet-Patterson Middle School

At the invitation of Girls Inc. of Washington, D.C., Dr. Clifford Thomas gave a demonstration on practical self-defense to a group of female students at Garnet-Patterson Middle School. Noting some of the key concerns of the young ladies assembled, he focused at this preliminary session on methods they can use to prevent being harassed or sexually assaulted. While they found the demonstration entertaining, the young ladies also realized that the intent was to underscore that they should be treated respectfully and feel safe in their environment. Further, they learned that they themselves can be proactive in avoiding situations in which they are approached aggressively. Dr. Thomas was invited to return to give safety seminars at the school after this successful demonstration. Nadirah I. Moreland, Girls Inc. program director, who plans to work with Dr. Thomas in future programming as one of the organization's partners, thanked him for giving this demonstration: "Your flexibility, planning time, and intuitive strength with youth brought a wonderful and important time for the girls to learn critical skills in a warm and engaging setting. ... The girls certainly reflected how valuable the time with you was and they continued to practice the skills you demonstrated including breaking the grip."

November 10, 2006

Keynote Address by Dr. Clifford Thomas at Princeton Elementary School, Suitland, Maryland

Dr. Clifford Thomas gave the keynote speech at the Honors Assembly at Princeton Elementary School in Suitland, Maryland, on Friday, November 10. He was honored to be invited to speak on this occasion as it gave him the opportunity to talk to a group of young people in the community who could benefit from his experience. The third through sixth graders, their parents, and the school's supervisory and teaching staff listened intently as he spoke about the need for students to lead by example, be responsible, honor their parents, and do their best in school and at home, which are the basic tenets of the Tae Kwon Do Ramblers.

After his entertaining and inspirational address, Dr. Thomas demonstrated the effectiveness of practical self-defense moves, the simplicity of which came as a surprise to most of the audience. The children were delighted with the demonstration and motivated to learn more, and parents and school staff were particularly interested because of their concerns about the children's safety in school and on the street. The school's principal, Ms. Cynthia Rodgers, presented Dr. Thomas with a beautiful crystal award, a thoughtful and gracious gesture. Since his November 10 speech, Dr. Thomas has returned twice to give seminars for the children, the first time for second, third, and fourth graders, and the second time for fifth and sixth graders.

August 26, 2006

Tae Kwon Do Ramblers Barbecue, Greenbelt, Maryland

On Saturday, August 26, the Tae Kwon Do Ramblers and their families congregated at Buddy Attick Park in Greenbelt, Maryland, and threw a thoroughly unforgettable barbecue, complete with Mother Nature’s uninvited guests. From the firepit, Stalwart Grillmaster Dr. Clifford Thomas served up chicken and ribs (shhhh … the sauce is a secret) along with hamburgers, hot dogs, and half-smokes. The Ramblers’ clan rounded out the feast with an array of homestyle cooking. With a selection of fresh salads, potato salads, macaroni and cheese, pasta dishes, baked beans, and desserts, you can bet no one went home hungry! All was washed down with Southern-style sweet tea, the hit of the afternoon. Dr. Thomas would like to express his gratitude both to the wonderful Rambler parents for preparing these delectable dishes and to those parents who labored tirelessly in setting up this event.

Several rounds of face-stuffing and belly-filling later, Ramblers of all ages branched out for activities in the park. Some took in the sights of the scenic lake and local wildlife, while others expended their energies romping at the children’s playground or playing basketball, baseball, or volleyball. Greenbelt’s Shakespeare in the Park performance group satisfied the more culturally-minded with their staging of the tragic play Hamlet (swordplay included).

Dr. Joe Parrish, president of the United States Head Of Family Martial Arts Association (USHOFMAA) and esteemed martial artist, came with his family in the late morning to show his personal appreciation for the work of both Dr. Thomas, USHOFMAA's executive vice president, and the Rambler organization. The highlight of the afternoon was the showcasing of the Rambler students by a very proud Dr. Thomas. Guest of honor Professor Bruce Goodwin, another member of the USHOFMAA and a notable self-defense expert, brought his daughter to the event. He spoke to the Rambler students directly, reminding them that they would greatly appreciate their remarkable training and opportunities in the years to come.

The outing was a very special event for the Ramblers; one that will surely prompt more gatherings in the future. For the time being, the Ramblers’ calendar of activities will include an intramural tournament (Who Will Be the Mighty Ram?) and an awards ceremony potluck at the Bladensburg Community Center.

July 16, 2006

Jamaica Nationals Association, Parklawn Park, Maryland

Dr. Clifford Thomas was invited to give a demonstration at the Jamaica Nationals Association family picnic on Sunday, July 16, in Montgomery County, Maryland. His demonstration of several practical self-defense methods in his vast repertoire was appreciated by the audience, whose members of all ages readily volunteered to assist by becoming part of the demonstration. Dr. Thomas stressed that, with the proper instruction and practice, an average person can learn effective self-protection.

April 22, 2006

Earth Day Clean Up and Celebration 2006, Bladensburg, Maryland

On Saturday, April 22, a contingent of youth and adult Ramblers participated in the Bladensburg Waterfront Park Earth Day Clean Up and Celebration 2006. It was a rainy day, but the wet and muddy conditions did not deter our hearty group. Eligible middle and high school students received service hours for their civic involvement. Everyone in the group received special individual certificates of appreciation from the Maryland- National Capital Park and Planning Commission. Thanks again and congratulations to the following Ramblers!

CHILDREN: D. Brogsdale, W. Brogsdale, R. Cabrera, M. Davis, A. Fleming, E. Kissomahop, A. Martinez, I. Martinez, J. Sanders, M. Sanders, E. Thompson, and F. Walton

ADULTS: A. Angeline, B. Brogsdale, C. Davis, S. McCutchen, C. Thomas, S. Thompson, E. Sanders, L. Sanders, F. Walton, and P. Wilson