Not Just Another Diary Entry

Where I came from

2011-03-09T20:45:00.000-08:00

This, like most of my early poetry is about my amazing grandmother, Mimi, who passed away. Today is her birthday and this is written for her.

"Where I came from"
By Breanna Armstrong

This summer, I visited your hometown,
I met your best friend, she showed us around.
Walking the same steps that you once walked,
Left me choked up, I could hardly talk.

The walls in your room are now blue.
We have great leather couches in there now too,
Paint these walls, and leave the pain behind,
But you still fill each corner of my mind.

Your presence- it never left,
The final resting place of your last breath.
They say time can heal everything.
Well whoever that was must not have met me.

I think about you constantly, you’re always on my mind,
You raised a good girl and then left her behind.
I would tell you that you’re my hero, but I already have,
I told you this time and time again while holding your hand.

My flower, my delight, inspired by your life,
Your dedication to your family in the roughest of times.
After you left, I learned a lot about you,
Your hardships and the tough times that you went through.

How you turned out to be the rock that you are,
It surpasses all of my expectations by far.
See I’m like you, I have your spirit,
I went through losing you and now I can see it.

I’m the writer that I am because I wrote for you,
The contests I won, published because of what we went through.
My heart leapt out onto the page,
And now people read about our love story on a national stage.

I’m sorry that I have not written to you for a while,
I started picking up success through another style.
Over time, I tried to block you out,
But it’s impossible, you fill every crack of this house.

I try to make you proud as you watch from above,
I miss your safety, your embraces and love.
Just know, that I will never forget or let go too.
I’m everything that I am because of you.

Work Moved!!

2011-03-09T20:43:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone, if you are use to checking out my work on this blog, I have moved to my own website! www.KoastKombat.com!! Please check it out. I will now be making my blog more personal again. Thank you for all of the support!!

Robin Hood Ethics

2010-11-27T16:40:00.003-08:00

Robin Hood Ethics

To put it lightly, Robin Hood ethics is pretty easily described at “What would Robin Hood do?” We all know the story of Robin Hood, who stole from the rich to give back to the poor. It’s a little different in Russell Crowe’s newest rendition of the story, but you get the picture. Robin Hood ethics for a journalist is something that I often use. When reporting something that is a touchy subject for a certain group of people. I make sure that I report it in a way that will create the least amount of harm to the reader as possible. This in no way means lying, it means not including harsh facts that could potentially harm a reader.

When reporting a story one time, I wrote about someone who had a very well known spouse. At the time, my editors got a hold of the information that they were in the middle of a divorce. This information was irrelevant to the story and using my Robin Hood ethics, I continuously asked the editors to leave that part out of my story. But it was too late, once the copy editors got a hold of my story, they reported the divorce and it was out of my hands. The article did more harm than good and that one small part of my story was now the center of it, instead of my touching piece that I originally wrote.

I was so devastated and so was my interviewee. It was hard to face this person after I came to hear about how upset they were when this information was printed. But I explained the situation and sent the person my original story. Which was met by approval.

The publication received a lot of slack from that, and this could have been avoided if Robin Hood ethics were used. No matter how many readers that the article would have drawn with the divorce fact, it took away from the original message of the article.

Robin Hood ethics is the way to go. And has proven itself very affective with many of the publications that I work for.

Persuasion... or Propaganda?

2010-11-27T16:40:00.001-08:00

Persuasion… or Propaganda?

It is very important as a public relations professional to not mislead the public in any way, shape or form. There are so many ways to avoid this. And I think the best way by doing so is to expose your purpose right off the bat in order to not mislead the true meaning that you are trying to get across.

By simplifying the situation and by not persuading the public to only agree with your cause by persuasion, you will avoid manipulation. It is important to leave emotion out of your press releases, so that the public is not confused by your intentions. I have found that by supporting a press release with true and honest facts, journalists and the public is much more receptive to the information. This excludes persuasion and manipulation.

Because who wants to manipulate the public to join their cause. By throwing in that a company is donating a certain percentage of profits to a company and by reporting extensive research on the charity, it directs the public from the real cause- that is, for example, to launch a yacht party with the biggest celebrities. How does this event help a charity? See what I mean? Just be honest in what you’re reporting. If you have to try to manipulate the public to gain interest, than you should probably go back to the drawing board and come up with a new strategy.

Whose rights are right?

2010-11-27T16:39:00.001-08:00

Whose rights are right?

For every right, there is a right. What are my rights? And when am I overstepping them as a Public Relations Professional? I may be against something, while someone is for it. So how do I instrument this into my expertise?

The bottom line is that it is not my job to justify a particular right. But at the same time, I will always uphold my personal ethics and if I do not agree with something that I have been assigned to, I much rather leave my voice out of the project and take a neutral stance than to be taken off of it. That maybe shocking to some, but I look at it in the light that although, I do not stand for that particular right, I see the other view for that right.

For example (Mom, please don’t get mad when you read this): The “going green” movement is not one of my top priorities in my life. I think that the new recycling grocery bag that you can buy at any grocery store is a bit extensive and an honest waste. I mean, it’s a waste of recycled energy and recycled products. And organic sweaters are just seemingly ridiculous. I don’t want my sweater made of bark and my buttons made of tin cans.

I am not a big supporter of the green movement, however, I can see someone’s right to pursuing this movement. I can appreciate it and therefore take on a responsibility to promote it as the PR professional.

It’s not my job to expose what is right or not, it’s my job to keep a level head and to leave opinions out the door to serve my client’s best interest.

Media Relations: the breeding ground for ethical problems

2010-11-27T16:38:00.000-08:00

Media Relations: the breeding ground for ethical problems

I have been in both positions as a Public Relations professional and as a journalist. As a journalist, it is easy for us to sweep press releases from pushy publicists under the table. It is easy to overlook potentially amazing stories because of the previous notion and attitude that I have about press releases and public relations professionals.

And as a Public Relations professional, I know how annoying it is when my press release can’t be pushed into media. It is frustrating to work with journalists who can’t seem to see a great story right in front of them via the press release.

But as interesting as it is, journalist and PR professionals need each other equally. According to Ethics in Public Relations by Patrici Parsons, “Journalism literature suggests that 40-50 percent or more of all news that’s reported on any given day has its origin in PR departments.”

I completely agree with this because when I work on my website: www.MuayThaimes.com, most of the content that comes through are press releases. This is the most effective way to report the news. Sometimes stories even come out of press releases. It’s a very efficient way for a journalist to produce accurate news stories. Press releases are appreciated and so too are the individuals behind them!

Staircase to Respect

2010-11-27T16:36:00.000-08:00

Staircase to Respect

Respect in all areas of life is a very important thing to have. But for the Public Relations Professional, respect is everything. As a PR Professional, one should have an appeasing and respectful image for potential clients and colleagues.

It is important to have a good and respectful image because along with a positive reputation comes more clients and more demand for your expertise. As the public relations professional, it is important to develop a certain image for one’s self as well as for their client. This is achieved by manners, composure, appearance and strong work ethics that are clearly displayed.

By having good manners, one achieves respect for others and by having respect for others; others will have respect for you. By treating everyone with respect, it will allow a positive image for the professional and thus, the professional will climb the staircase to respect. Respect is earned, not handed out.

“It takes 20 years to earn respect and 5 minutes to ruin it.”- Warren Buffet.

BAMMA USA Coverage

2010-09-26T15:58:00.000-07:00

Here are a few videos from BAMMA USA's first fight night from Friday at the Commerce Casino in LA. The show was sold out and had 8 great fights. View my full recap and results at: www.MMASpot.com

Interviews

2010-08-17T13:05:00.000-07:00

Fighters who I have interviewed so far: (that I can remember in one sitting)

Bas Rutten

Fabricio Werdum

Vitor Belfort

Guy Mezger

Paul Buentello

Pedro Rizzo

Cris Cyborg

Georgi Karakhanyan

Jens Pulver

William Sryapai

Mike Brown

Javier Vazquez

Bao Quach

Karen Darabedyan

Giva Santana

Romie Adanza

Dan Henderson

Malaipet

Jared Papazian

Jason Andrada

Bobby Green

Victor Valenzuela

Greg Guzman

Hugo Sandoval

Kathy Long

Din Thomas

Gegard Mousasi

Jake Shields

Martin Kampmann

Lynn Alvarez

Sevak Magakian

Brent Magnussen

Melvin Guillard

Ando Deremenjian

Sako Chivitian

Manny Gamburyan

Wanderlei Silva

Jason Parillo

Joey Pagliuso

Gokor Chivityan

Christy Riddering

Sheila Telliard

Michelle Percival

Jason Yglesias

Gene LeBell

Each of these people inspired me in some way. They are great fighters and great people. I know I am missing a few interviews, but it's amazing to see how many fighters I have been blessed enough to meet in just a year of being in this industry.

Like I always say:

It's not about me. It's about getting stories from great fighters and individuals in this industry. Everyday I am inspired. I realize that not a lot of people get inspired by their job. I do. And at the end of the day it is worth it.

Ultimate MMA work

2010-08-17T13:00:00.001-07:00

Here is my print work for Ultimate MMA Magazine's August issue: My first feature on WEC's Karen Darabedyan

Ultimate MMA Coverage

2010-08-17T12:38:00.000-07:00

Here is my work in Ultimate MMA's July Issue: Melissa Jo Collins, Razor Rob, Bas Rutten, Georgi Karakhanyan, Natalia Villegas,

Pedro Rizzo, The "Vet"

2010-08-15T22:17:00.000-07:00

Check out my interview with Pedro Rizzo on his upcoming fight against Tim Sylvia and a different kind of "Vet"

Jens Pulver interview

2010-08-15T22:14:00.000-07:00

My interview with Jens Pulver- I had to interview one of my favorite fighters, Jens Pulver. Here it is.

Lynn Alvarez

2010-08-12T19:09:00.000-07:00

Here is my article for MMA Spot on Lynn Alvarez, who is fighting Jessica Aguilar at Bellator tonight!! Live on Fox Sports Net!

www.mmaspot.net/index.php/redblack/comments/20100811_on_the_spot_lynn_alvarez/

Cal Baptist Coach Killed In Fiery Freeway Crash - KNX

2010-08-10T12:53:00.000-07:00

Cal Baptist Coach Killed In Fiery Freeway Crash - KNX

In memory of Coach Wendy Rice.

2010-08-10T03:34:00.000-07:00

Tonight I learned that my college cheer coach, Coach Wendy Rice, passed away due to a car accident. Coach Wendy was one of the drivers who volunteered to take the CBU Cross Country team to their training camp in Mammoth.

She was my coach when I was on California Baptist University’s cheer team 2008-2009. She helped us to be our best, always. I had never had a coach that was so dedicated to her team as Wendy was. She had all of the answers, all of the details and everything organized for each of us girls. This was truly the most organized colligate squad ever because of her thoughtful dedication.

When I was on the team, our squad was very close and we were all like sisters. We went through all of the ups and downs together and Wendy always found a way to get us all together for team events. I have made some lifelong friends from those events, from those practices and from being on a top cheer team.

In 2009, our team did great at nationals, and I will never forget the look on her face as she congratulated us when we came off of the competition floor. All of the hard work was worth it to see tears in her eyes as she told us all how proud she was of us.

Despite the bruises, sweat and tears, we all were pushed to become the best athletes that we could possibly be. I was pushed at times to my limit and I am so thankful for all that Wendy taught us. She taught us to be strong, to persevere, she taught us to be our very best. I was performing at my very best athletically by the middle of the cheer season. We all were.

Though I did not renew my contract for the 2010 season because of work, I told Wendy at our exit interview, that she was truly the best coach that I have ever had. I thanked her for the opportunity to be on her squad, because it was a very special transition time of my life.

That next year, I would go to a few games and always cheered louder for cheer squad than for our basketball team, because this group of ladies is an amazing and inspiring and loving group of individuals. Every time that I would see the girls in or out of uniform, I felt like I was home. I have never been on such a tight knit team than ours. And we can thank Wendy for that.

Wendy loved her team, she was a great mother to her kids, Joe and Caitlyn and a loving wife to her husband. One of Wendy's passions was photography, she had this beautiful way of capturing the most special moments on camera. She had us close every practice with a prayer and would teach us devotionals regularly, She had the ability of letting anyone open up to her. She was a loving, honest, respected and driven lady and she will be missed. I will never forget her as a coach, as an individual and as a woman of God.

My thoughts and prayers go out to Wendy’s children and husband and family. I’ll be praying for all who were involved in the accident, May God Bless you all. This is a very sad loss for CBU, Wendy Rice, will remain in the hearts of many. And is now in the arms of our Lord, Jesus.

Here is the link to my interview about Coach Wendy for CBS- http://cbs2.com/local/car.accident.six.2.1851966.html

THE BULL

2010-07-08T19:00:00.001-07:00

Here is my article on Muay Thai Legend, William "The Bull" Sryapai. He will be fighting in the WCK Muay Thai World Championships in August.

http://www.muaythaimes.com/2010/05/the-bull-muay-thai-can-be-found-in-his-grip/

Local Bellator Battle!

2010-07-08T18:55:00.000-07:00

Here is some Bellator coverage on a featherweight bout featuring two of the Inland Empire's best fighters. This ran in the Press Enterprise
http://www.pe.com/sports/boxing/stories/PE_Sports_Local_D_web_mma_13.3771aa7.html

Guy Mezger Interview

2010-07-08T18:50:00.000-07:00

Check out my interview with Guy Mezger for MMASpot.com. This was a great interview with Mr. Mezger, who has been on the MMA scene since before UFC!
http://www.mmaspot.net/index.php/redblack/comments/20100614_guy_mezger_retirement_coaching_and_nutrition/

DIN Thomas Interview

2010-07-08T18:39:00.000-07:00

Check out the link below to my Interview with Din Thomas, who was set to fight Ricardo Myorga at the Shine fights last month. After all of Mayorga's smack talk, he backed out and the fight was cancelled the day of the show!

http://www.mmaspot.net/index.php/redblack/comments/20100510_open_media_workout_with_shines_din_thomas_and_ricardo_mayorga/

Once

2010-06-24T05:39:00.000-07:00

She was always about work, so busy, too busy. Too busy for happiness, too busy to act her age, too focused on her career and there was hardly anytime for herself. It was business as usual. Until she met him, and he met her. She was his and he was hers. For the first time ever she had her own him. It happened once. Love happened once. He took away all of her fears, he made her laugh, he replaced work with daily opportunities to be happy again. She found her voice through him. She loved being loved and for the first time she knew what that feeling was like. All of the times in the past that she had been let down, no longer mattered. She forgot everyone’s name before him. He blew them all out of the water. This is what she was looking for. She was that still river, always focused, pure and determined. And he was like the rapid that stirs a river, unpredictable, wild at heart and brave. She was not use to being so loved, so appreciated and so taken care of. There had to be something wrong, how could someone love her so much? She started pushing him away and stopped understanding his wild heart. His rapids soon mellowed down into ripples, to change his ways for the smooth and peaceful her. But it didn’t work. She loved him so much that she wanted him to be those rapids again. So she chose a different path. Her river turned into a stream that simply glided over the cobblestones at the bottom of a once raging and beautiful body of water. Could she ever be loved like that again? Could she ever love another? Her stream is still and waiting. He became a rapid again and she could not be more pleased. He still loves her and she still loves him. It happened once. Love happened once and she won’t forget that feeling for any other feeling in the world.

Breanna Armstrong (c) 2010 "Once"

MMA Spot - Vitor Belfort ~ Sacrifice, Discipline And Humility

2010-04-20T16:37:00.000-07:00

Check out my article on MMASpot.net on Vitor Belfort. Thanks Behind the scenes will soon follow.

MMA Spot - Vitor Belfort ~ Sacrifice, Discipline And Humility

Strikeforce Interview with Gegard Mousasi, Jake Shields and Dan Henderson

2010-04-15T12:56:00.000-07:00

Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Media
By Breanna Armstrong

Behind the scenes of my interview with Gegard Mousasi, Jake Shields and Dan Henderson at the Strikeforce open media work out day on March 17 at Legends MMA gym in Hollywood, Calif.

It was a scorching, hot day in Hollywood as I stepped into Legends, the outside appearance of the gym was not so pretty. There were shabby dogs running around, and a pretty beat up gate surrounding the wear-house like gym. I didn't know what to expect. When I stepped into the gym, it was like I stepped into an art gallery. The walls were painted in bright colors and the interior design was fit perfectly for an elite gym.

Although it was still stuffy, being inside a gym that literally creates legends was worth it. My photographer and close friend, Lisa and I entered the gym where the Strikeforce fighters were working out to showcase themselves to the media. There is Dan Henderson, the fighter that I am so use to seeing in the UFC, now in his glory now as a most honored and anticipated Strikeforce fighter who is going up against Jake Shields for the title on April 17.

Shields was standing on the other side of the room with his belt, calm, collected and cool. All cameras were on Aoki, the superstar from DREAM. DREAM's Vice President was there to showcase him now, as a Strikeforce contender going up against the also present Gilbert Melendez for the title.

Every time I see King Mo, I feel his confidence rising off of him, sometimes lifting him up about a foot off the floor. Well, that's how the media responded when he walked into the crowded room full with martial arts equipment like a cage, a ring and jiu-jitsu mats. Which is a home a way from home for this elite group of warriors. King Mo was all smiles and when he stepped into the cage to throw down for the media's fancy. He had everyone laughing. I feel like most laugh and encourage, because he is the last person in the world that you would want to get on his bad side.

I go downstairs to interview Dan Henderson, who is relaxing without media interruption. Then and just then, Gegard Mousasi, walks through the doors. He had his typical ivy style cap on with a white shirt and a little cut under his eye. Casual. I have met him once before and threw some questions his way while we were at the Called Out MMA fights in January. Instead of getting to fully enjoy his time at the fight, of course, the humble Mousasi was more than happy to appear to be enjoying his time answering some questions for me.

I walk up to Mousasi to shake his hand and re-introduce myself, but he already was way ahead of me. He smiled and remembered who I was and I got right in there for his first interview out of many more to come that day. It was a good interview... I am looking forward to his fight against King Mo, who has been talking smack on Gegard non-stop. Gegard's response to his opponent's criticism: I'll take it out in the ring. Class act.

Back to Dan, our interview also went smoothly and we got to joke around about how he was not doing anything for St. Patty's day. His teammates that came with him were hilarious, I kind of doubt they sat around their hotel room on St. Patty's day, they were too lively of a crew, although none of them wore green. I felt most comfortable interviewing Dan. I was a little intimidated to at first, until he just had a way of making everything come so naturally. He is a really chill and down to earth kind of guy.

I then made my way back upstairs to interview Dan's opponent, Jake Shields. I have always been a pretty big fan of Jake, ever since I saw him on Bully Beatdown. I knew that he would be a cool interview. I was right. He was very professional and thorough with his answers. This guy is only 9 years older than me, and he is this HUGE superstar fighter. I have the utmost respect for the professional fighter. It takes a lot of sacrifice to get where these men are today, standing in front of probably 60 people all wanting an interview with them, a picture of them and a shot at the spotlight through them.

Who could get the best interview? Who could get the best picture or the most hits on their article? And all these fighters are thinking is: fight, train, eat, sleep. It takes commitment, it takes perseverance and it takes control. Being in a room of legends at Legends in Hollywood was truly an enlightening experience.

Update

2010-03-24T15:33:00.000-07:00

Just an update on what's been going on-

I am writing for www.MMASpot.net and I just started my new blog for www.UltimateGrapplingMag.com and I am still devoted to Muay Thaimes Mgazine. We just launched out new site- www.MuayThaimes.net Check them all out!

Check out the next issue of Ultimate MMA Magazine it comes out this week you can find it pretty much anywhere- from 7 eleven to Borders :) I am loving every second of my internship with the Magazine and I am looking forward to a few future projects that I am currently working on.

If you want to see links to my work check out the right side of my blog, under "My Work" Tab. I am going to stop posting my articles on here and just post the link up instead because I have been writing a lot lately.

If you have any ideas for stories that you would like to read about or interviews you would like to see, let me know, e-mail me at BreannaArmstrong@gmail.com :) I would love to hear from you!

Ultimate MMA May 2010 Work

2010-03-06T19:26:00.000-08:00

Check out Ultimate MMA Magazine's latest issue, to see what I have been up to! Here are a few clips bellow:

WMC Muay Thai Fights (www.MMASpot.net)

2010-03-06T19:08:00.000-08:00

WMC: Welcome To California Recap And Results
Article author: Breanna Armstrong. Posted on 03/06 at 12:47 PM

It was a successful event for the World Muay Thai Council (WMC) on Friday, March 5, as fight fans came out to support the WMC’s first appearance in California. The Quiet Cannon nightclub in Montebello, transformed into a stadium fit for a memorable Muay Thai show.

The night had six action packed amateur and two professional fights. In the main event, Muay Thai legend, Coke Chunhawat (41-8-1) entered the ring comfortably as he sought to destroy his opponent, Tampa's Dan Rawlings (13-5), as fast as he could.

Coke never ceases to put on a show for his fans or audience, and that is exactly what he did. He practically danced around Rawlings, who was taking some powerful strikes from Coke. In the third round, Rawlings started it off with a kick to Coke’s stomach that triggered a rampage from the vet, until Rawlings surrendered 46 seconds into the round.

In the WMC’s amateur featherweight title bout, a rematch between Jessie Magusen (4-6) and the undefeated (at the time) Ruben Ekyotin (4-1) was the most anticipated bout of the night. Both put on a brutal fight, exuding the fact that they had met their match. However, fans were able to see a different Magusen as he defeated Ekyotin via split decision.

“I have seen all of Jessie’s fights, he is really improving and one to watch for,” said highly-regarded judge Nelson “Doc” Hamilton.

The women’s match between Michelle Percival, training out of USKO in Riverside, Calif., and Joslyn Mikow, training out of Fairtex in San Francisco, had fans out of their seats as the two power house 135 pound fighters battled it out in the ring.

Percival’s reach was too much for Mikow, and it resulted in a unanimous decision victory for Percival.

“It felt really great, I had a good training camp that helped me to see that I can keep taking a step forward,” said Percival, whose only loss came in December 2009, via decision. “This time I initiated quicker. I started counting on my cardio. I am looking forward to my next fight and I am thankful that Joslyn could come down here from San Francisco.”

Percival’s teammate, Riley Miller (0-1), making his debut, did not have the same success as Percival. Miller lost by decision to Robert Wendiwlier (2-0), who trains out of Team Oyama in Irvine, Calif., under Colin Oyama and Muay Thai WBC Champion Romie Adanza.

It was successful night for Team Oyama, as Wendiwlier’s teammate, Oscar Sanchez also won, defeating Dereck Leung (1-3) via split decision.

Results:

Amateur Bouts:
Oscar Sanchez defeated Dereck Leung (1-3) via split decision
Robert Zakartin defeated Mike Herman via TKO in at 0:50 of Round 3
Victor Acosta (4-3) defeated Erik Alignay (1-2) via unanimous decision
Michele Percival (4-1) defeated Joslyn Mikow (1-2) via unanimous decision

WMC Amateur Featherweight Title:
Jessie Magusen (4-6) defeated Ruben Ekyotin ( 4-1) via split decision

WMC Heavyweight Bout:
Robert Wendiwlier (2-0) defeated Riley Miller (0-1) via majority decision

Professional Bouts:
Chike Linsey (13-1) defeated Nathan Willet (8-3) via TKO in Round 3

WMC Lightweight Championship Title:
Coke Chunhawat (41-8-1) defeated Dan Rawlings (13-5) via TKO at 0:46 in Round 3

FiOS TV- Every MMA Fan's Dream Come True

2010-02-26T13:36:00.000-08:00

SHOWTIME's Interactive Strikeforce Event: Where the sports fans play.

We all put our two cents in as we watch our favorite fighters go at it on television sets all over the world. It doesn't matter if your watching a fight by yourself or in a crowded sports bar, let's face it we are going to make some noise.

We are going to turn to our buddy and take on the role of an official or judge and say what this guy should have done to this guy. What if you could put all of that energy in and actually interact with other viewers and fighters DURING the fight!?

Here is the ultimate MMA fan's dream come true: Tonight, FiOS TV will add a new level of interactivity today with the launch of SHOWTIME Sports Interactive during the Strikeforce Challengers mixed martial arts telecast. The event airs tonight (Friday, Feb. 26) on Showtime HD East Coast feed (Channel 865 on FiOS) at 8 p.m. Pacific.

MMA fans who are SHOWTIME subscribers on FiOS TV will be the first to have instant on-screen, on-demand access to a wide array of interactive features during the Strikeforce event including: viewing fighter profiles, customizable stats, a trivia game, voting in viewer polls, and more, with the touch of a button on their FiOS TV remote. It's all free to SHOWTIME subscribers on Verizon FiOS TV.

I can't think of a better way to watch Strikeforce. If you are a FiOS TV subscriber, you will have the chance to view this new network's interactive experience first. According to Verizon's press release: All FiOS TV customers with a high-definition set-top box who subscribe to SHOWTIME will have access to the interactive experience.

This takes watching this sport to a new level. I can't think of a better target audience then MMA fans. If you want to learn more about FiOS go to www.verizon.com/newscenter

Have fun playing.

King of the Cage Results

2010-02-26T13:33:00.000-08:00

Full results for King of the Cage “Arrival” from San Manuel Indian Bingo and Casino in Highland, California on February 25th are listed below:

Aaron Arana def. Chris Wolf via Submission (Armbar) @0:27 of Round 1

David Gomez def. George Sanchez via Unanimous Decision

Ron Keslar def. Jonathan Brandon via Submission (Rear Naked Choke) @0:34 of Round 2

Dave Rivas def. Martin Bautista via Unanimous Decision

Musa Tolliver def. Sasiprapa Malaipet via Unanimous Decision

Waachim Spiritwolf and Ismael Gonzalez Technical Draw (Illegal Elbows Prompt Doctor Stoppage)

Reuben Duran def. Ryan Diaz via KO (Punches) @4:57 of Round 3

Junior Welterweight Championship:
Bobby Green def. Rick Legere via TKO (Punches) @4:27 of Round 1

Upcoming MMA Events

2010-02-24T14:46:00.000-08:00

Upcoming Events
(featured in Ultimate MMA Magazine's latest issue)

Following is a list of upcoming events, so mark your calendars, palm pilots or Blackberries.
FEBRUARY 20

What: Dollamur Grappling Championship

Where: Texas

Info: www.nagafighter.com
FEBRUARY 21

What: UFC 110

Where: Australia

Info: www.ufc.com
FEBRUARY 25

What: King of the Cage: Arrival

Where: Highlands, California

Info: www.kingofthecage.com

FEBRUARY 26

What: Tuff-N-Uff

Where: Orleans Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada

Info: www.tuffnuff.net

FEBRUARY 27 (tentative)

What: Total Combat

Where: Arizona

Info: www.totalcombat.tv

MARCH 6

What: WEC

Where: Nationwide Arena, Ohio

Info: www.wec.tv

What: U.M.A. U.K. Open Team Grappling ‘Challenge Cup’

Where: Wallace Sports Centre, Staffordshire

Contact: Jim McSherry Tel: 01283 510321

Info: www.umauk.co.uk

MARCH 13

What: UFC 111

Where: New Jersey

Info: www.ufc.com
MARCH 20

What: Grapplers Quest

Where: New Jersey

Info: www.grapplers.com
What: U.M.A. English Open Junior and Cadet Judo Championships

Where: Wallace Sports Centre, Staffordshire

Contact: Jim McSherry Tel: 01283 510321

Info: www.umauk.co.uk
APRIL 8

What: Bellator Fighting Championship season 2

Where: TBA

Info: www.Bellator.com
APRIL 10

What: UFC 112

Where: United Kingdom

Info: www.ufc.com
APRIL 17

What: Grapplers Quest

Where: Florida

Info: www.grapplers.com
What: U.M.A. English Open Junior and Cadet Grappling Championships.

Where: Wallace Sports Centre, Staffordshire

Contact: Jim McSherry Tel: 01283 510321

Info: www.umauk.co.uk
MAY 1

What: UFC 113

Where: Montreal, Canada

Info: www.ufc.com
What: U.M.A. British Open ‘No Gi’ Groundfighting Championships.

Where: Wallace Sports Centre, Staffordshire

Contact: Jim McSherry Tel: 01283 510321

Info: www.umauk.co.uk

Heat Music Festival

2010-02-19T15:04:00.000-08:00

UC Riverside’s Heat Music Festival takes back Saturday
By Breanna Armstrong and Lisa Luna

With over 11,000 music lovers and 16 music artists; Heat Music Festival was a success from the opening DJ to the headliner band, Taking Back Sunday.

The University of California Riverside held the fourth annual Heat Music festival on its campus Saturday, Feb.13. Heat is an annual music festival that falls on the university’s homecoming week. Heat Music Festival’s line-up included a diverse mixture of artists, from electronic musicians to rock bands.

Heat Music Festival contained two music stages and one dance stage. While people crowded around the southland stage listening intently to eight different artists throughout the night, the main stage kicked it off with the band Shiny Toy Guns,who played an hour set that led to every fan dancing and singing along to their songs.

“It is amazing out here tonight, so many people,” Janett Loera, UCR freshmen said. “I think that it’s really cool that all of the students had a discount to be here tonight. I am having a blast.”

The crowd continued to grow as the anticipation rose for The Crystal Method to take the stage. The Los Angeles based electronic duo were full of energy, never failing to keep the crowd wanting more. At the end of their set, The Crystal Method said, “We don’t come out here very often, but I will say we will be back here soon.”

As the bass of the speakers on the main stage vibrated through the crowd, the lights flashed, reflecting off the faces in the front row, and hands were thrown up in the air, Heat Music Festival officially started when Taking Back Sunday took the stage.

Taking Back Sunday began their performance with a classic song, “Cute without the ‘E’ (cut from the team)," sending the crowd into frenzy. As they kept playing, the crowd of fans continued quickly grew into a mosh.

Although it was their first time performing at Heat Music Festival, Adam Lazzara, the lead singer of Taking Back Sunday, told the ‘Banner’ it was their third time performing in the Inland Empire, and “It is absolutely wonderful to be at Heat.”

For Blake Spencer, a CBU senior, it was his tenth time seeing Taking Back Sunday in concert. “I was so surprised that they played that many songs. They had amazing stage performance. I even went to the back of the stage and they gave me the drummer’s set list. It was a great night,” Spencer said.

Heat was a huge success with the impressive light shows on all three stages to set the ambiance, the excitement and the mob of people that gathered across UCR’s campus to share in the same commonality for the love of music.

Olympians go to College Too!

2010-02-17T12:08:00.000-08:00

Photo credits: AP

By Breanna Armstrong

The life of a college athlete can be more than stressful and at times, down right unbearable. Having to juggle more than just classes, athletes have to train everyday, and sometimes twice a day. It’s the waking up early, the eating right, the traveling and keeping up with their homework that often defines their daily life.

Not to discredit any athlete but something has stuck out to me in the past few weeks, something that I am sure has stuck out to a lot of people. There are more that a few college students that are participating in the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.

These athletes are in a league of their own; most have been preparing their entire lives for this one season, this one moment to get a chance to receive a medal while representing their country. These athletes have more than a town, a state, a college and a team behind them, they have the entire country’s eyes fixated on their performance.

The Olympic schedule is a more than just waking up early, eating right and training everyday. These athletes literally meditate on their events and hold their performance at top responsibility. As an Olympian, throwing college into the mix would seem over bearing. But these athletes are the most trained professionals in the country and can handle more than just the Olympian schedule and the chaos of college.

A group of college student Olympians that has stuck out to me has been the select few students that attend Westminster College in Salt Lake City, Utah. Most of Westminster’s young Olympians are on America’s ski team. There are approximately nine Westminster students on the ski team, and America has already been sweeping up the medals in the ski competitions.

Bryon Wilson, 21, is a freshman at Westminster College, and is majoring in art. He received the bronze medal representing team USA in the men’s freestyle skiing competition. Not a bad thing to put on his resume after he graduates from college.

It is a very commendable act for anyone to represent their country in the Olympics, but for these college students to represent, it is truly remarkable.

How to be a Professional Fighter's Girlfriend

2010-02-16T20:50:00.001-08:00

By Breanna Armstrong

It is the task that almost seems pointless, scary and at times frustrating. Being a professional fighter’s girlfriend takes an uncontrollable amount of patience. The girlfriend not only has to deal with the grueling schedule that is demanded by her man’s trainers, managers and sponsors, but she has to deal with the girls that comes along with being in the lime light and the occasional mood swings as well.

ROUND ONE. Remember that his mood swings are a direct result of him cutting weight before his next fight. Don’t take it personal if his responses are short and contain words like: “Sure.” “Um” “Yea” or “Does that have sugar in it?”

ROUND TWO. Do not be intimidated of his trainers, managers and sponsors. They see you as a hobby, so look at them with the same regards. When they start putting you on a strict schedule like your boyfriend’s, then and only then should you go for the total knock out.

ROUND THREE. Forget about the girls that are fans of your man and are constantly staring him down. Your man is with you because he thinks you are beautiful without having to wear tight little shirts and short booty shorts. You are respected while they are ignored.

ROUND FOUR. Do not freak out when another fighter has your boyfriend in a headlock. Your man is the most trained expert when it comes to getting out of a situation like that. That’s how he makes his living.

ROUND FIVE. Do not let his success get to his head. That’s almost every pro fighter’s downside and its up to you to bring him back to life and make him feel normal.

Being a successful professional fighter’s girlfriend will be in reach if these steps are followed.

Written: January 28, 2009- a very long time ago. (c) Breanna Armstrong

The Brotherhood of MMA

2010-02-16T16:34:00.000-08:00

Photo Credits: www.HyeFighters.com

Check out www.ultimategrapplingmag.com for the version that will be running in print.

Hye Fighters: The Brotherhood of MMA
By Breanna Armstrong

There is a group of elite fighters that have represented their country and culture at all times in the cage. They are located all over the world and come together as a unified group that is better described as a brotherhood. They are the Hye Fighters, and representing Armenia is their number one goal.

Araz Araradian, started the Hye Fighters Organization in August 2007. He enrolled his son into the Glendale Fighting Club in Glendale, California. After becoming involved in the sport, Araz decided to create a website that would showcase all Armenians who were professional fighters. “Hye” means, Armenian in the Armenian language. There were only a few fighters on his site at this time, including the UFC’s Karo Parisyan, who was the only Armenian in MMA at the time.

Since the site’s launch in 2007, Hye Fighters has grown significantly. They have 16 pro MMA fighters, including StrikeForce’s Light Heavyweight Champion, Gegard Mousasi, WEC lightweight, Karen Darbedyan, WEC lightweight, Manny Gamburyan and Bellator featherweight, Georgi Karakhanyan, are a few.

The fighters are mainly located in Glendale, a large Armenian community in LA. It was in Glendale at Phoenicia, an Armenian restaurant that I had the pleasure to meet and interview this family of elite fighters and supporters over a dinner full with laughs, sincerity and the clear presence of a brotherhood bonded by a culture.

“You have to have a lot of heart, we fight with our hearts and leave everything in the cage I think that is what it means to be a true Hye fighter,” explains Karen Darabedyan. “Araz, the creator of the Hye Fighter’s site, has done an amazing job with putting us all on stage. All someone has to do is log onto Hyefighters.com and you can see when we fight next, our record and our updates. It’s been great PR by being on the site and I think that we are all grateful for that.”

The site has every Armenian fighter’s updates with profiles on each fighter with links to their personal websites, which Araz created for each of them free of charge. There is also a feature of the Hye Fighter of the month, a huge honor to receive. Now, two years after the launch of the group driven by Arazs’ passion to promote these fighters, the Hye Fighters have been recognized beyond the fight industry and into their communities.

“We all look up to these guys, I respect their hard work and their dedication to represent our Armenian culture,” says Jerry Hanessian, the owner of Cage Alliance. Jerry sponsors most of the Hye Fighters and is a strong supporter of each of them.

“Being a Hye fighter is like being a part of a team. When you are on a team you perform better because you are pushing each other. It’s motivational and it’s like being a part of a family. I am ten times a better fighter as a Hye Fighter than I am alone as one,” Says Sako Chivitchyan.

“Everyone trains together we train at Gokors, Glendale Fighting Club, Main Event and SK wrestling, we all learn from each other, ” says Sevak Magakian.

In Armenia, MMA is in its infancy, many of the Hye Fighters were originally from Armenia and moved to America and took up the sport that has now defined them. Transitioning into a new culture was easy because through this sport, they found each other and Hye Fighters has glorified this. Whenever any fighter, whether in MMA, Muay Thai or boxing has a fight coming up, the entire group helps that person train for it and is there the day of the fight to provide support.

“The difference of Armenian fighters and others is the heart, the heart and the way that we represent ourselves is unreal,” says Manny Gamburyan.

At the end of the table is the fighter’s trainer, Gokor Chivichyan, when he speaks about the Hye Fighters everyone stops, listens and pays great respect to what he says. “They are like a family to me. When they win, it’s my win. They train very hard and Hye Fighters has brought them together. They lift each other up and I see that and it makes me very happy,” explains Gokor.

Gegard Mousasi was recently visiting from the Netherlands before going to StrikeForce in Miami. While he was in town he spent his entire trip training and visiting with the Hye Fighters. It’s that camaraderie that has left a trademark on this group of elite fighters.

“We have a good family relationship outside of fighting,” says up and coming MMA fighter, Andy Dermenjyan. “Some of us have known each other since we were kids, like Sako and Manny and I.”

“It’s been the best opportunity that I have ever had. The Hye Fighters took me in after I loss to Karen, I was on a losing streak and now I am on a winning streak. The training and support has really helped me a lot,” says Hye Fighter of the month, Jared Papazian.

In their community, they are recognized. Their goal is to be recognized globally.

Beyond MMA
Hye Fighters has nine professional Muay Thai fighters, including WBC MuayThai International Welterweight Champion, Edmond Tarverdyan and
2009 K-1 World MAX Champion and WKN Intercontinental Middleweight Muaythai champion, Giorgio Petrosyan. There are 48 professional Hye Fighter boxers as well.

For more on the Hye Fighters, check out www.hyefighters.com

WORLD MUAY THAI EXTRAVAGANZA

2010-02-12T18:53:00.000-08:00

MUAY THAI ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA PRESENTS:
WORLD MUAY THAI EXTRAVAGANZA
March 14, 2010 at the El Monte Expo Center
12051 Garvey ave, El Monte, Ca 91732

WBC 175LB. World Title: 5x3min rounds
1) Kaoklai Kennorising / Thailand, vs. Magnum Sakai / Japan

MTAA 135LB. World Title: 5x3min rounds
2) Saenchai Sor Kingstar / Thailand vs. Tetsuya Yamato / Japan

147LB. Super Fight: 5x3min rounds
3) Bryan Dobler / Dobblers Muay Thai / Fontana, CA vs. Shane Oblonsky / Seal Beach, Ca

MTAA 130LB. U.S. National Title: 5x2min rounds
4) David Huerta / Team Zarate / East Los Angeles, CA vs. Jason Andrada / Master Toddy / Las Vegas, NV

MTAA U.S. National Title: 5x2min rounds
5) Kristin Shepard / Dobblers Muay Thai / Fontana, CA vs. Malia Spynol

130 LB. Bout: 3x2min rounds
6) Justin Nguyen / Team Oyama / Irvine, CA vs. Antonio De La Cruz / San Jose, CA

7) Roy Corona vs. Raul Martinez

135 LB. Bout: 3 x2 rounds
8) Yamato Miura / The Yard Muay Thai / Japan vs. Tony Juan

9) Prudencio Portillo vs. Bounthong Syvanthong

10) Mike Ellison vs. Andy Lazarit

Papazian Decisions Guzman

2010-02-11T15:47:00.001-08:00

photo credits: www.CalledOutMMA.com

MMA FIGHT: He overpowers his opponent with a dominating third-round finish.

Monday, January 25, 2010

By BREANNA ARMSTRONG
Special to The Press-Enterprise

ONTARIO - Jared Papazian defeated Greg Guzman via unanimous decision Sunday night at Called Out MMA II's fight night at Citizens Business Bank Arena.

"It started out really good, I got the takedown. But Jared was very tough the entire fight," said Guzman. "He fought real tough, he completely deserved that win. I just have to get back into the gym and train more."

Said Guzman's head trainer Jake Behney: "Greg is going to drop down to 125 pounds for his next fight, because he only had to cut 1.5 pounds for this bout against Jared," said Jake Behney, Guzman's head trainer.

The fight went three rounds before Papazian won, 29-28, 30-27, 30-27.

In the third round, Papazian got the better of Guzman, getting him in a hold, getting on top of him and punching him in the head until the bell rang.

MMA: San Jacinto's Guzman plays waiting game

2010-01-22T01:59:00.000-08:00

photo credit: William Wilson Lewis III / The Press-Enterprise
Greg Guzman (left), who fights in Sunday's MMA card at Citizens Business Bank Arena, spars with Curtis Tomkins during a November workout.

MMA: San Jacinto's Guzman plays waiting game

Thursday, January 21, 2010
By BREANNA ARMSTRONG
Special to The Press-Enterprise

It has been three and half months since Greg Guzman's last mixed martial arts fight.

It has been nearly two and half months since the former San Jacinto High wrestler was supposed to get back in the cage.

What has Guzman done with all that time between bouts?

Train.

Six days a week.

Welcome to the life of an MMA fighter.

As he writes on the bio of his Web page (www.gregguzman.com): "You're either going to experience pain in the training room or in the cage. You have to choose one or the other."

Guzman, 21, finally returns to the cage Sunday night when the CalledOut MMA II event, postponed from November, takes place at Ontario's Citizens Business Bank Arena.

"I was really looking forward to fighting my last opponent," he said, referring to the original Nov. 14 date with since replaced Chad George, who moved over to World Extreme Cagefighting. "But since that fell through (I) couldn't do much but ... just keep training."

Guzman (7-3) will face Jared Papazian (5-4) in the 135-pound division on the Sunday card, which is headlined by the match between UFC and King of the Cage fighter Alberto Crane (12-4) and Albert Rios (11-4). The first bout is scheduled for 6 p.m.

Guzman, who trains out of Pinnacle Jiu Jitsu in Redlands, said his participation on the high school wrestling team inspired him to fight professionally.

"I started fighting professionally three years ago with my wrestling coach, Stan Holmes, as my only source of training," Guzman said. "I trained out of my garage. I didn't have a team or a gym to train out of until I started at Pinnacle. It's really great over here; it's a nice gym and has tough guys."

Guzman fought against current teammate Reuben Duran in the "King of the Cage: Superstars" fight in August. Duran won the bout by unanimous decision. After the fight, Jake Behney, Duran's trainer and the owner of Pinnacle, invited Guzman to join their fight team. He has been training with the Pinnacle team ever since.

"Greg has a positive attitude and great work ethic, he never complains and he puts everything he has into training," Behney said. "He is a very well-rounded fighter and is a pleasure to work with."

Guzman hasn't had a fight since October 3, when he defeated Chris Wolf by submission 2:21 into the first round. Of his 10 fights, six haven't lasted beyond the first round. The others have gone three rounds.

"Jared seems tough, looks like he's not scared to stand up and throw," Guzman said of Papazian, Sunday's opponent, who last fought December 18.

"I feel like I am in the best shape of my life," said Papazian, who has slimmed down to 135. "I'm ready for Guzman. It's going to be a high-pace fight. He is great at jiu-jitsu and a very good fighter. This will be war."

Bellator's Bao Quach Interview

2010-01-21T14:41:00.000-08:00

Muay Thaimes Magazine

2010-01-21T10:17:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone, the newest issue of Muay Thaiems Magazine is coming out soon! To order your copy of this fully devoted to Muay Thai magazine check out www.MuayThaimesNation.com

And check out my article on the WCK's World Championship Muay Thai event that was held at the Buffalo Bills Casino on December 5. The article features Malaipet "The Diamond", Joey Pagliuso, Kevin Ross, Romie Adanza, Scotty Leffler, Christina Riddering, Roxy Balboa, and many more powerhouse professionals!

Check out the website's deal- 5 magazines for the price of 4! www.MuayThaimesNation.com

Georgi Karakhanyan signs with Bellator Fighting Championships

2010-01-21T10:10:00.000-08:00

photo credit: David Bauman / The Press-Enterprise
Riverside MMA fighter Georgi Karakhanyan will compete in the Bellator Fighting Championships Season 2 series beginning in April.

Riverside MMA Fighter Lands Spotlight in Bellator Series
By BREANNA ARMSTRONG
Special to The Press-Enterprise

January 12, 2010

Riverside's Mixed Martial Arts fighter, Georgi "Insane" Karakhanyan has been added to the Bellator Fighting Championships schedule for Season 2, which begins April 8.

"It felt great to sign with Bellator, it's a great organization. I just want everyone to know that there is a MMA fighter in Riverside that is doing good," said Karakhanyan, 24, who trains at United States Karate Organization in Riverside and Millennia MMA in Rancho Cucamonga.

Bellator (Latin for "warrior") Fighting Championships is a tournament-based series with eight competitors in four weight divisions conducted over 12 consecutive weeks. The series has plenty of television exposure, airing live weekly on Thursday nights on Fox Sports Net with a one-hour taped highlight show on Saturday nights on Telemundo, a Spanish-language network, and a 30-minute taped highlight show airing Saturday nights on NBC.

"Georgi is a proven winner," Bellator founder and CEO Bjorn Rebney is quoted as saying on the BFC website. "He brings an explosive style to the cage that makes for great fights. We are excited to welcome Georgi to Bellator."

Karakhanyan, who is currently teaching and training at USKO, brings a 12-1-1 record into the series.

"This will be a great opportunity for me to show my skills," he said.

Georgi Karakhanyan has a 12-1-1 record.
Said Betiss Mansouri, Millennia's head trainer: "We are confident that he has all the tools to win the entire tournament. We are also hoping that the last few fighters they add to the tournament are truly the best in this weight class the world has to offer, because, we believe Georgi is the best 145 pounder around at this point in time."

Joe Soto is the featherweight champion from Season 1. Karakhanyan would have to reach the final in order to fight Soto.

Muay Thai Rocks Las Vegas

2010-01-08T02:50:00.000-08:00

Muay Thai Rocks Las Vegas
by Breanna Armstrong

World Championship Muay Thai rocked the Las Vegas Hilton on July 25, with over 2000 in attendance, as WBC and IKKC titles were not only earned but fought for, to create one of the most noted Muay Thai fights on the west coast.

For 20 years, the WCK has been a prestigious organization in the Muay Thai community across the world. Dennis Warner, the founder of the WCK, has created some of the most renowned shows in this rising sport.

Warner, has held World Championships all over the world under his promotion company, In Sync Productions Inc., and has brought the most international fighters to North America than any other American Muay Thai organization. Warner holds an event every month, holding a promising fight card to satisfy fans at each match.

Henan TV station, based out of China, teamed up with the WCK for this memorable event that brought the attendance of the industries most elite. Randy Couture and son, Ryan, as well as Ray Sefo were some of the names present to the event adding to the exciting atmosphere of the night.

The original fight card consisted of several Chinese fighters. However, due to a problem with their visas, last-minute match-ups had to be made. The show went on.

Jared Lara of Team Oyama in Irvine
WBC MuayThai National US Middleweight
Vaughn Lucas of the Yard Muay Thai in Los Angeles

This was no new match up for Jared Lara and Vaughn Lucas, who have grown quite use to each other representing the other opponent in the ring. Lara and Lucas battled it out before in the WCK’s World Championship Muay Thai in August 2008, which resulted in a draw.

This time the WBC MuayThai National US middleweight tile was on the line for Lara and Lucas. The bout lasted five, long three-minute rounds, both Lara and Lucas were slowing down towards the third round, Lara’s coach Collin Oyama described it as “I think both Jared and Vaughn were in the same situation they both had a problem with weight this time, which slowed them down. Jared usually doesn’t run out of steam like that. But I think that he had enough in the tank obviously to finish him.”

The fight was slow and one could question the qualification for this title’s match-up. Regardless, Lara ended up on top with his endurance clearly defeating Vaughn’s and won by a unanimous decision.

“I wanted to make sure I fought my fight this time, last time I think I let him use his size to control me and the pace of the fight. This time I worked a little more strength training in order to deal with Vaughn’s strength advantage. I unfortunately had a hard time making weight because of the strength training and as a result I got more tired, late in the fight, than I normally would have. It felt great to redeem myself after the draw I had last time. Any win over someone as tough as Vaughn is always great,” Lara said.

“To fight for anything in the WBC or the World Championship Muay Thai, is an accomplishment, and for Jared to be on that level is a great thing for him. He has a lot of heart and is inspiring for making it this far with his hobby and turning it into much more than that.” said Oyama.

Shane Oblonsky
IKKC Welterweight Muay Thai
Scotty Leffler of Las Vegas

For Scotty Leffler, there was not a better place to make his professional debut then on his home turf while he delivered a great fight against Shane Oblonsky as he had everyone in attendance at the Hilton on their feet with enthusiasm.

Leffler started out very aggressive, which overwhelmed Oblonsky, who was on the floor of the mat for the majority of the fight.

Leffler defeated Oblonsky 2 minutes and 23 seconds into the first round by a knee to the head.

Baxter Humby of Los Angeles
Wu Lin Feng Rules Welterweight
Chike Lindsay of Team Khunpon in Atlanta

The bout between Baxter Humby (35-5) and Chike Lindsay (10-0) was one of the most surprising fights of the night. Two crowd favorites came together in a close match. Both fighters were originally matched against two of the Chinese fighters, who had problems with their visas. This made for an unexpected fight.

According to Dennis Warner, The rules of Wu Lin Feng are as followed:
No elbows, effective scoring blows, punch, kick and knees to body and head. Limited clinch...one knee and then reposition clinch. If a fighter falls or thrown to the ground, it is scored as an effective strike. A standard fight is three rounds of fighting and each round is three minutes in duration.

Humby started off strong in the first round, and proved himself the champion that he is against Lindsay, who seemed to not put up much of a fight against him. Humby had a few kicks to back Lindsay up, causing Lindsay to come out stronger in the second round. Humby kept his distance and came out on top in the third round.

Humby took the win via split decision, qualifying him for a shot at a WBC title fight. Humby, know as the “One Armed Bandit,” who was born without his right hand, has been an inspiration to the Muay Thai community and beyond. He is the current IMTC World Super Welterweight Champion and has made his career in Muay Thai as a tough competitor.

After his win, Humby addressed the audience and said, “The only limits that you have are the ones that you put on yourself.”

Romie Adanza of Team Oyama in Irvine
WBC MuayThai International Super Bantam Weight
Paulo Da Silva of Lumpini Crawley in England

For fans that knew the history behind these two great Muay Thai fighters, this was the most anticipated bout of the night. The ongoing saga between the Romie Adanza and Paulo Da Silva continued as the two fighters took to the ring for the third time, making this fight one that was all too familiar.

Adanza and Da Silva’s first bout against each other resulted in Adanza’s favor, but the two had a rematch a year ago, where Da Silva defeated Adanza by KO, taking away his title. Their second fight was a humbling experience for Adanza. “I have never had a belt taken from me before, so after getting stopped by him, I needed my belt back.” Adanza said, “Going into this fight for the third time, I worked on a lot of basic things, like keeping my hands up. I feel like I went into this fight a lot smoother, I was aggressive but I did more thinking than anything because I had to avoid him [messing] me up again.”

A lot was on the line for this fight, the saga between California’s Adanaza and England’s Da Silva could not have been put to rest at a better place.

Adanza, no doubt about it, had the crowd behind him as he stepped into the ring against Da Silva, who according to both Adanza and trainer, Colin Oyama, is the only opponent that has ever stopped Romie in the ring.

In the first round the two started out strong and Adanza clearly had a different and more controlled side to him compared to his last bout with Da Silva. Adanza gave some powerful kicks to Da Silva’s legs, causing Da Silva to lose his lower body power by the end of round two.

By taking away Da Silva’s legs, his punches started to fade early in round three. Adanza’s endurance lasted as he punched and kicked Da Silva into a corner and landed a knockdown by a leg kick in round three. “We knew we had him.” Oyama said.

After a tough battle, Adanza fired leg kicks at his opponent that resulted in a TKO with only 26 seconds into Round 4. Adanza proudly regained the IKKC International Championship title as well as the WBC MuayThai Bantamweight US Championship Title.

“For years I have wanted a leg kick KO, but I always do it with my hands, so this felt really good,” he adds.

A TKO like Romie Adanza’s to end the saga between Paulo Da Silva was the best thing about the night hands down.

Christine Toledo of Master Chan and Anthony Badua in Las Vegas
Wu Lin Feng Rules Woman’s Super Bantam Weight Title
Jeri Sitzes

Jeri Sitzes (11-0) went head to head with Christine Toledo (3-1) for the only woman’s fight of the evening.

Toledo, who was also scheduled to fight the Chinese fighter, Zheng Yenan, had to move up weight by ten pounds to fight Zheng’s last minute replacement, Sitzes, so that she could still put on a show for her fans.

Sitzes, who is a seasoned Muay Thai fighter, clearly dominated the Las Vegan, as she had Toledo in her fire all throughout the entire three, 2-minute, rounds. There is an obvious super star-like quality in Sites, who proves to be a tough competitor, which is why she maintains an undefeated record.

Toledo showed class and grace as she unselfishly went up against Sites, knowing fully what she was going up against, and all for the show to go on.

"When it comes down to it, I accepted the fight knowing exactly what I was getting myself into, so I have no regrets today for what happened on Saturday evening. Instead, I stand true to myself and will admit that I'm not the best, I'm not perfect, and there will always be plenty of room for improvement. I can sit here and make excuses about how much heavier and more skilled Jeri is than me, but the simple reality is that I stepped in the ring that night, I learned from the experience, and that is what counts and is more important to me than trying to reason with myself for the loss,” said Christine Toledo in the press release.

Kevin Ross of Master Toddy's in Las Vegas
WBC MuayThai National US Welterweight Title
Justin Greskiewicz of Cool Hearts Muay Thai/ Daddis Fight Camps in Philadelphia

Kevin Ross (9-4) was looking forward to this fight for 6 months. It was his rematch with Kang En, who defeated Ross on January 19, earlier this year in Beijing where, En swept the WBC Super Lightweight International Champion title by a unanimous decision.

Ross was ready to take En on his home territory, with his fans loyally behind him.

There was only one problem and it was En’s visa. En was another Chinese fighter who last minute could not make it to the Las Vegas showdown.

Luckily Justin Greskiewicz (9-6) from Philadelphia took the fight last minute and stepped into the waters that Ross had been anticipating for six months. “I had really almost no notice for the fight. I found out that they needed me on Wednesday.
I had fought the Friday before, so I was still a little banged up,” Greskiewicz said, “but, it was a great opportunity and I really wanted to take it.”

It was clear that the Las Vegas superstar, Ross, had the favor of the fight and it only became more clear as round one and two came to an end. “In the first round I felt really good, but he caught me at the end of the round and I lost my legs. In the Second round I felt like I was wading in a kiddie pool. I just had nothing under me, I couldn't recover,” Greskiewicz said. The Las Vegas Hilton Showroom was feeding off of Ross’ energy, who represented his hometown as the champion that he is.

The unprepared Greskiewicz had good technique. But given Ross’ determination, Ross laid on the body shots and finished his opponent with TKO by a right-footed front kick to Greskiewicz’s eye with one minute and 49 seconds into the third round.

Ross received the WBC MuayThai US Welterweight Championship title on the night of his 28th birthday. “It’s the best birthday present I’ve ever had,” Ross said.

Malaipet of the Muay Thai Academy in North Hollywood
WBC MuayThai Super Welterweight International Championship
Richard Fenwick of Keddles Gym in England

This was the fight that fight-fans from all around the world have been anticipating since their last fight in February, earlier this year. The rematch between the Malaipet (137-27-5) and Richard Fenwick (28-8-1) was the fight of the night and possibly the year.

Both contenders started off strong and Fenwick definitely stepped it up for his title, but in the fourth round a few hard body shots to Malaipet, heated Fenwick’s opposite up, resulting in a fierce comeback by Malaipet. The gloves were off.

Malaipet started putting it on his opponent full force to have a few takedowns, leaving Fenwick tired and defending himself with any fuel he had left. With each kick and punch Malaipet threw Fenwick’s way, even the last row of the audience could see the smile on his face.

In February, the two battled it out and Fenwick took the title. One could call July 25 a different game completely, as Malaipet became the main event by dominating Fenwick and taking the WBC MuayThai Super Welterweight International Championship title away from his opponent in a unanimous decision victory.

Because of the unfortunate visa issue with the Chinese fighters scheduled to fight at the July 25 event, Dennis Warner is putting together another show also at the Hilton on August 30th. Kevin Ross will fight Kang En, Baxter - Xu Yan, Christine Toledo- Zheng Yenan and Shawn Yarborough will be fighting Xu Hou, who is the current WBC China's national light heavyweight champion.

BAMMA USA Hosts UFC 108 Viewing @ Hooters

2009-12-30T16:59:00.000-08:00

Date: Saturday, January 2, 2010
Time: 7:00pm - 10:00pm
Location: Hooters 3041 E Garvey Avenue, North West Covina, CA 91791

BAMMA USA is moving the UFC viewing party to the West Covina Hooters. VIP tickets are $10.00 a seat, no waiting in line, a VIP seat in our private area, you will also receive a $10.00 coupon good anytime at any Hooter location and 3 raffle tickets for a chance to win prizes provided by our sponsors. Come out and hang out with us and support your local fighters.

This is a great fight card I am excited about the Lauzon fights. I enjoy watching both brothers fight. They are always very entertaining. It will be good to see Joe Lauzon back in action. Joe Lauzon’s second-round armbar vs. Jeremy Stephens on February 7 was ranked #5 by the UFC's top 10 best submissions of 2009. And I agree. He is a force to be reckoned with.

And I am going with Rashad Evans on the main event. It will be an exciting fight night for sure.

Pay-Per-View Televised Fights:

Rashad Evans (18-1-1) vs Thiago Silva (14-1) - Light Heavyweight - UFC 108 Main Event

Paul Daley (22-8-2) vs Dustin Hazelett - Welterweight

Joe Lauzon (17-4) vs Sam Stout (15-5-1) - Lightweight

Jim Miller (15-2) vs Duane Ludwig - Lightweight

Junior Dos Santos vs Gilbert Yvel - Heavyweight

Spike TV Televised Fights:

Martin Kampmann (15-3) vs Jacob Volkmann - Welterweight

Cole Miller (15-4) vs Dan Lauzon (4-0) - Lightweight

Preliminary Fight Card for UFC 108 Fights:

Rafaello Oliveira (9-2) vs John Gunderson - Lightweight

Mike Pyle (18-6-1) vs Jake Ellenberger (21-5) - Welterweight

Steve Cantwell vs Vladimir Matyushenko

Mark Munoz (6-1) vs Ryan Jensen (15-4) - Middleweight

Muay Thaimes Interview with Romie Adanza

2009-12-22T00:18:00.000-08:00

December 21, 2009

Romie vs. Kunitaka Fujiwara at the WCK World Championship Muay Thai Dec.5

For more information check out www.MuayThaimesNation.com

Muay Thai- More than a sport

2009-12-04T17:35:00.000-08:00

December 4, 2009

Muay Thai- More than a sport
By Breanna Armstrong

For Joey Pagliuso, Muay Thai is more than just a sport; it is his lifestyle. He is the owner and trainer of the United States Karate Organization in Riverside. He has been an active martial artist from his early childhood and is a professional Muay Thai fighter.

He competed in Karate matches all throughout his childhood and earned his black belt in Karate. Pagliuso started training Muay Thai when he was in his early twenties. His father, Joe Pagliuso, founded USKO in 1972, it has been a family ran organization ever since.

His father, mother, Sandy and sister, Shawn El all has their black belt in karate as well. Pagliuso has found much of his inspiration from them.

“My mom was always a really aggressive fighter. When she was in her twenties, she would go to Hawaii to fight, and there were no girl divisions then so she would fight against the guys. So growing up with her and having her teach me, really made me want to fight and get out there to do it. And by watching the fights and training with my dad, it really brought us all together,” said Pagliuso.

Now, at thirty-two years old, he has implanted that same dedication into his family life. Pagliuso and his wife, Desiree have three children, Dominick-7, Malia-3 and Kiana- 4 months. As a family, a big part of their life revolves around Muay Thai and martial arts. Dominick is already an aspiring martial artist, as he won first place in his last sparring tournament and Malia is just learning her basics in karate.

“I would suggest Muay Thai and the lifestyle for anyone. From Karate training as a child I learned a lot of self-discipline, respect and confidence. And as I grew up I could relate the hard training before a fight to business because it is so intense and you have to devote so much to it. It is empowering but it also translates into our family life and everything that I do. It brings us closer as a family and everyone comes together for support,” said Pagliuso.

Pagliuso (11-2-3) is currently training for his next fight against Scott Leffler (17-2) for the IKKC Muay Thai Welterweight bout in Dennis Warner’s World Championship Muay Thai event at the Buffalo Bill’s Casino on Dec. 5.

Pagliuso has fought in 15 of Warner’s World Championship Kickboxing shows all around the world. The WCK is the largest Muay Thai organization in North America and holds the largest international fight cards as well; his goal is to have a World Boxing Championship title in 2010.

Training for a title fight against his opponent Leffler, who has had 14 career knockouts so far, keeps this family man busy.

“At this level, these fights are not that different, Scotty is very aggressive and likes to clinch and move forward. It’s not like I’m just fighting another person, my work goes towards improving myself more than fighting an opponent,” said Pagliuso.

To prepare for this fight, “I have been doing a lot of cardio and running sprints along with that, Muay Thai training sessions on the pads with my dad or master Tom. And I teach classes Monday thru Thursday, at the same time we have other fighters that go to our gym that I need to spend time with as well. The last few weeks before my fight, other trainers really step in to help out,” said Pagliuso.

“I have been training Joey for seven years. And this time around, this is the hardest that I have ever trained him because he is training for the belt,” said Master Tom Khamvongsa, USKO’s Muay Thai instructor.

Also on the fight card for Saturday’s fight night are USKO’s Shelia Telliard (2-1) and Michelle Percival (3-0). They have been training and conditioning alongside of Pagliuso to prepare for their fights four to five times a week.

Percival will be fighting against Kristin Shepard for the IAMTF Women’s Lightweight title and Telliard will be matched against Tandi Schaeffer for the IAMTF Women’s Super Featherweight title.

In the main event of the night is WBC International Super Welterweight Champion, Malaipet “The Diamond” Sitarvut (138-28-5) who resides in Chino Hills and trains out of his gym, Sitarvut in Highland. Malaipet reclaimed his title from England’s Richard Fenwick earlier this year and will be defending it against James Cook (41-13) from San Francisco.

“So many people want the WBC title because its not easy to get so I feel good knowing that I am the two-time WBC champion. The best thing about Muay Thai to me is respect. There is a lot of respect in Muay Thai for your culture, family, teacher, fighters, and friends. I also like it because it makes you into a real man,” said Sitarvut, who has never been knocked out.

The WCK’s World Championship Muay Thai event will be in celebration of the King of Thailand with weekend-long festivities to represent the culture with food, massages and dancing to go along with the 16 Muay Thai fights on the card.

For more information go to: www.kickbox.com

Fontana's Green wins at MMA event

2009-12-01T11:46:00.000-08:00

05:35 PM PST on Monday, November 23, 2009
By BREANNA ARMSTRONG
Special to The Press-Enterprise

Fontana's Bobby Green defeated Sevak Magakian in the headline bout of the Respect in the Cage II mixed martial arts event Friday night at the Fox Theater in Pomona.

Green, a Fontana Miller High grad, won by TKO by knee strikes to the head, 2:42 into the first round to improve to 11-2.

Also, Aaron Arana improved to 3-1 with a first-round victory. Arana, a Redlands High grad, defeated Vincent Martinez by submission with a triangle choke 1:57 into the 135-pound bout.

www.PE.com

Redlands' Arana wins at MMA event

2009-12-01T11:41:00.000-08:00

Redlands' Arana wins at MMA event

10:00 PM PST on Friday, November 20, 2009
By BREANNA ARMSTRONG
Special to The Press-Enterprise

Aaron Arana improved his record to 3-1 with a first-round victory at the "Respect in the Cage II" MMA event at the Fox Theatre in Pomona on Friday night.

Arana, a Redlands High grad, defeated Vincent Martinez by submission with a triangle choke 1:57 into the 135-pound bout.

The headline fight between Sevak Magakian and Fontana's Bobby Green in the 155-pound bout was just starting at press time. Read the final result at PE.com/sports.

www.PE.com

Local MMA talent is Called Out- The lost article

2009-11-29T20:53:00.000-08:00

Local MMA talent is Called Out
By Breanna Armstrong

**This fight has been postponed until January 9, 2010 & this article was intended for print in the Press Enterprise Newspaper right before the show was postponed**

Called Out MMA is putting on its second show at the Ontario Citizens Bank Arena on Saturday, Nov. 14. Two of the Inland Empire’s professional Mixed Martial Artists will be featured on the fight card along with MMA superstar, Hector "Sick Dog" Ramirez, the Ultimate Fighter Coach from season ten, who will be going against Lodune Sincaid.  

Riverside’s Georgi Karakhanyan (12-1-1) is going against Vince Ortiz (9-2) in the main 155-pound bout on the card. Karakhanyan, who was originally matched up against MMA vet, Bao Quach, was thrown for a loop when Quach fractured his hand four weeks before the fight resulting in a two month recovery. Karakhanyan eagerly prepared himself for the fight against Quach. “Bao is a really good stand up fighter, so I was doing a lot of Muay Thai training and wrestling to prepare for this fight. After he was injured, Vince Ortiz stepped in to take his place,” said Karakhanyan.

  Ortiz, fighting out of Body Shop Fitness in Bellflower rightfully earned his nickname as “The Sergeant” for his five years of service in the Marines. “I started training MMA while I was serving in the military,” Ortiz said. “ I'm feeling really good about this fight, I've been training hard. He is a credible opponent and this is a great opportunity for me.”  

Karakhanyan, who fights out of Millennia in Rancho Cucamonga and USKO in Riverside, is not taking this fight lightly. “This fight is different for me because I look at it as a big fight. I do not underestimate my opponent, I am ready,” Karakhanyan said.  

Also on the card in the 135-pound division is Greg Guzman (7-3), who trains out of Pinnacle Jiu-Jitsu in Redlands. Guzman, who is from San Jacinto, Calif., was inspired to fight professionally after being a top competitor on the San Jacinto High School’s wrestling team. “I started fighting professionally three years ago, with my wrestling coach, Stan Holmes as my only source of training. I trained out of my garage,” Guzman said. “I didn’t have a team or a gym to train out of until I started at Pinnacle. It’s really great over here, it’s nice gym and has tough guys.”

  Guzman fought against his now teammate Reuben Duran in the King of the Cage Superstars fight for a unanimous decision defeat, in August. After the fight, Jake Benhey, Duran’s trainer and the owner of Pinnacle Jiu Jitsu, invited Guzman to join their fight team. He has been training with the Pinnacle team ever since.  

“Greg has a positive attitude and great work ethic, he never complains and he puts everything he has into training. He is a very well-rounded fighter and is a pleasure to work with.” Benhey said.  

Guzman is fighting against Chad George (10-4), who has won his last five fights straight. “Pinnacle has been pushing me with my training and I know what to expect from my opponent. He is a big 135 pounder, and I am looking forward to beating him,” Guzman said.

Making his name in the MMA community has been top priority for Guzman, who according to Behney, has already made huge improvements in his skills with just the few months of training on a fight team. From his high school wrestling mat, to the professional MMA ring, Guzman is representing what the sport is all about.

Not Random-Just Happy

2009-11-20T01:57:00.000-08:00

A boy asked a girl who has never been in love this question: "How would you describe love?"

She answered: "Always being Happy, always knowing u are going to be with that person, never having a doubt in them. Like, If you were out in public without that person, someone would notice something different about you."

He replied, "I wouldn't see it any different."

She is still smiling =)

Respect in the Cage

2009-11-19T16:23:00.000-08:00

My article for the Press Enterprise Newspaper
www.PE.com

Fontana fighter a showman

Wednesday, November 18, 2009
By BREANNA ARMSTRONG
Special to The Press-Enterprise
Fontana's Bobby Green is a fighter. It appears that's always been the case.

This former foster child who once participated in fight clubs when not wrestling while at Fontana Miller High School has now become a headliner.

A rising Mixed Martial Arts fighter, Green is in the main event on Friday's "Respect in the Cage II" MMA event at the Fox Theatre in Pomona.

Green (10-2), who fights out of Pinnacle Jiu Jitsu in Redlands, is scheduled to face Sevak Magakian (7-2) in a 155-pound bout that headlines the card.

Aaron Arana, of Redlands, and Green's teammate at Pinnacle, is also on the card. Arana (2-1) is scheduled to face Vincent Martinez (0-4) in a 135-pound bout.

"I'm excited for this fight, and to be the main event," Green said. "This is a big fight, and I want this fight to show the new me."

Green is most known for his fight against Dan Lauzon on January's Affliction card. Green lost but has remained a memorable contender in the sport with his confidence and showmanship.

"I don't care about getting the win; I just want to put on a show," Green said. "I want to be your favorite fighter, and if I'm not, I want to know why."

At Miller, where he graduated in 2004, Green was a wrestler good enough to advance to the CIF-Southern Section Masters Meet. But it seems Green was always a fighter.

"In high school, my friends and I would start these backyard fight clubs," he said. "I was doing what I do now for free and without gloves back then."

Green, now 23, said he was in foster homes as a youth until Shana Vasquez and her son Jesse, now 19, took him in.

"Then when I turned 15, I met these really great people, they have become my family ever since," Green said.

Green started training in MMA two years ago and has taken many of his 12 professional fights on short notice. He took his previous fight on 20-minutes' notice for the King of the Cage-Jolted event in October when he defeated Jeff Torch (1-4) by submission in the first round.

"The training alone has been preparation for Bobby," said Jake Benhey, owner and trainer of Pinnacle Jiu Jitsu. "He has already had 12 fights and (Friday) is his first fight that he has actually been training for. There are only a handful of people that have the athleticism that Bobby has, so over the next six months, be prepared to see a different Bobby Green."

When Green used to train, it would consist of a series of broken workouts just two weeks before a fight. Now he has increased his training to five days a week and makes training his job.

"We all now know that his career is going to take off," Shana Vasquez said. "He is everything to me. And even though he is gone training a lot, we know that it is going to be worth it in the end. Bobby will be a star."

Arana, 22, is a 2005 Redlands High grad and former varsity wrestler who is taking his fourth fight since his professional debut in February.

"I am feeling really good about this fight," he said. "I have been training really hard and I am ready."

Said Benhey: "Aaron is a very well-rounded fighter; he has great work ethic and is easy to coach. He is hard working and is a very pleasant kid to work with."

Called Out MMA- Postponed

2009-11-19T16:16:00.000-08:00

My article for the Press Enterprise Newspaper -
www.PE.com

Saturday's MMA card at Ontario postponed

Thursday, November 12, 2009
By BREANNA ARMSTRONG
Special to The Press-Enterprise
UPDATED

This is an updated version to reflect the correct title for Called Out MMA CEO Steve Miller and to include Miller's statement.

The "Called Out MMA" card scheduled for Saturday at Ontario's Citizens Business Bank Arena has been postponed. No makeup date has been set.

Fighters on the card, including two locals, learned of the postponement Tuesday night via text message from Mike Rush, a matchmaker for Called Out MMA.

George Bastmajyan, an official with Called Out MMA, said that the show was postponed because of lack of funding.

Riverside's Georgi Karakhayan (12-1-1) and San Jacinto's Greg Guzman (7-3) were among those on the 11-fight card headlined by Hector "Sick Dog" Ramirez, the coach from season 10 of Spike TV's "True Ultimate Fighter."

"I look at this in a different way," Karakhanyan said. "I'm very frustrated, but I will take it out on my opponent when I actually do fight. I'm going to keep training and eating healthy because all things happen for a reason."

Sue Oxarart, the director of marketing for the Ontario arena, said she didn't have a chance to talk to Called Out MMA CEO Steve Miller and that potential reschedule dates have not been discussed.

"We all put so much time in training and sacrifice so many things to get ready for a fight and prepare ourselves mentally and physically," said Karakhanyan, who trains out of Millennia MMA in Rancho Cucamonga and United States Karate Organization in Riverside. "I have been training hard every day on top of that dieting to go down to my weight class since August.

"There are so many expenses for gas, for food, for supplements and as a fighter, I spend that money thinking that at the end I will get it all back after I get paid for the fight. One of my friends, Chad George, was on the same card with me and went all the way to Japan to train for the Nov. 14 fight. He spent all of his money to go train and prepare for a war."

The Citizens Business Bank Arena Web site refers questions to CalledOutMMA.com. That site only says that the show has been postponed and they are currently working on a new date and will post any new information as soon as it becomes available.

Later Wednesday night, Steve Miller, the CEO of Called Out MMA, issued the following e-mailed statement to PE.com: "I appreciate your interest in helping to possibly bring clarity to the chain of recent events concerning Called Out MMA II. In consideration of certain deadlines involving the California Athletic Commission, our matchmaker, and designated capital, we did not meet a couple of deadlines and had to choose the least painful of two decisions. Postpone the event, giving ourselves a little bit more time to pull off a successful show of this magnitude ... or try to continue without the proper funding and risk leaving a whole lot of people unpaid. The decision was painful and difficult to make, however, it was the necessary one. We are very much aware of the inconvenience and even hardship a postponed show creates for different people, it touches my own staff as well. We have committed to making it up to those particular people.

"We are meeting with the arena tomorrow to try and work out a new date so we can put the show back together and give our great fans the kind of excellent fights and production they have already come to expect.

"In a long-term consideration, our company's vision, staff, and overall condition is very healthy. We will be back on track in a very short time.

"The feedback and criticism from most everyone has been fair. Disappointed in the postponed show but understanding of the huge costs involved in putting on a show of this magnitude, with little room for mistakes. To put on a successful big show like we are committed to, there are many components that have to come together synergistically; ticket sales, sponsors, a fight card that stays in tact, and sufficient up-front working capital. When one of these components fails you can possibly recover and continue the show. If two or more fail, however, it becomes extremely difficult to proceed without irreparable damage. In these cases it is less damaging to take a very short time-out, regroup, and come back stronger than ever. That is precisely what we will do.

"Again, thank you for your interest and coverage."

Adrenaline Boxing Tournament (October 18)

2009-11-09T17:19:00.000-08:00

USA Boxing Inc. held an open amateur boxing tournament at the Adrenaline Fitness Club in San Bernardino on Sunday, Oct. 18.

With over 500 in attendance, the Inland Empire’s boxing community came out to support and showcase new talent. The 20-bout tournament allowed ages 8-35 to participate in the event, and providing the necessary USA boxing passport, a corner and a trainer to qualify.

Training out of Riverside Lincoln Boxing Gym, 9-year-old Jose Torres, who attends Fremont Elementary School, has a 5-0 amateur record and took first place at the tournament. “Boxing is my favorite thing to do because it’s my favorite sport. I like winning,” said Torres after his victory.

“My husband is a professional boxer, so our son took an interest in boxing at a young age and has been excelling in it since,” said Alejandra Torres, Jose’s mother. “This is our first time at Adrenaline and it’s a very good family atmosphere.”

More Than Conquerors (MTC) teamed up with Adrenaline’s gym to provide a successful tournament that was officially sanctioned by USA Boxing Inc. MTC is a non-profit organization based out of San Bernardino that provides the funding for underprivileged kids to learn the sport of boxing. A percentage of proceeds from the event went to More Than Conquerors.

Chrystal Noriega, who trains out of MTC, also competed at Sunday’s event. Noriega has been training for 5 months and has fought in two amateur fights. “I felt like I tried really hard today and I had to give it the best I could,” said Noriega, an Arroyo Valley High School freshman.

“Our gym holds these tournaments bi-monthly, to expose new talent and give back to the community. The next USA Boxing tournament will be held on Nov. 1, and will be Adrenaline’s inaugural toy drive for the community,” said Jose Ponce, owner of the Adrenaline Fitness Club.

LUKE 10:27, Since 4th Grade

2009-10-19T09:07:00.000-07:00

I have always been a very active member of my church. I was put in Vacation Bible school the first moment that I was old enough to register. My parents taught my Logos class and I did logos from elementary to jr. high. I went to all of the summer and winter camps and I considered myself a champ for Christ.

In 4th grade, the most exciting part of being in logos bible camp, was the fact that we got to paint a tile with our favorite Bible verese some where on it. I was really big into art, so this meant everything to me.

The lesson that week was on Luke 10:27. I painted a bright sunset on the tile and wrote Luke 10:27 in cursive on it. I was so excited to present it to my parents. "Then the man answered, 'Love the Lord your God, with all of your strength, with all of your heart, with all of your soul and all of your mind. And love thy neighbor as you would yourself.'"

I have since tried to live my life by that verse, treating others the way that I would want to be treated. And fully committing my love to God in every area of my life.

The little tile that I created still is displayed proudly in my parent's kitchen, it is a constant reminder to me and my family. And although it is washed out now and the colors are not as bright as it once was, it stands as bright as ever on some of my darkest days.

The Price of a Puppy

2009-10-01T22:48:00.000-07:00

So currently I am in the market for a puppy. My roommates and I all decided that it was time to invest in a lifelong friend. So today was the first day of our search. We need the following in order for this to work with our living situation: Completely silent, Potty trained, neutered, straight, well-kept, likes to go shopping, doesn't mind hanging out in a purse for a few hours, likes minorities, knows when it's time for homework and time for play. And it must play hard to get.

These simple tasks are more than easy to come by, I mean honestly, it's all I ask for. It's not that hard. I was sitting around my living room, deciding where I could obtain this perfect breed. It all came down to my favorite movie of 2009, or was it 2008? Any who, it all came down to my obsession with the puppy from Beverly Hills Chihuahua.

So after being set on the breed, I went on a search. But every white chihuahua in the state of California ranged from $800-$1500!! A price that is uncalled for in any college student's bank. My man friend then suggested the penny saver. After all 5 of us roommates had a good laugh at him, I eventually decided to give it a try. After searching for a few minutes on the penny saver's website, I came across affordable puppies in this area. So tomorrow I am going to pick out my first real baby puppy!!! I can't wait!!!

Summer Time

2009-09-16T09:41:00.001-07:00

This summer I realized that love is not what it seems. Love is not what I thought I wanted and it is definitely the cause to the ache that replaces all loneliness, and then some.

I have never really been in love, I didn't even start dating until I was 18 and in college. I was the girl in high school who had to hold out for the "mature" men in college. When I got to college... all of the sudden the "mature" pool of males were just older version of the same boys that I went to high school with. Nonetheless, I gave in and gave it a try.

So I started to go on group dates, pretty much maturing relationship wise at the level of a giddy fifteen-year-old girl. So everything was a HUGE deal to me. I mean holding hands for the first time ever with a guy at the age of a legal, was all I could think about for weeks. Of course, my closest friends around me were and have always been in long term relationships, so news like this was pretty lame. But that's what I loved about it and how much I would treasure the small things.

I went on to date a handful of bad guys, this is not me being a man-hater, literally, I knew that they were not good guys, but I wanted to see the good in them, because I believe that I can see the good in everyone. I learned quick.

When it came to the heart, I should have been careful and more picky about who I let in. Because one's first encounters with surrendering the heart to another's hands, shapes that person and molds that person's expectations of what a relationship is. Looking back about 2 years later, I wish that I would have been more picky. I could never see past looks, until this summer.

This summer I realized that I really didn't need a man to fulfill my heart. I didn't need his acceptance, I was fed up of always trying to look my best, wear my best, walk my best wherever I went. Just trying to keep up with the Orange County lifestyle that I have grown up around. This town will rock you if you even think about wearing a pair of Crocks if you are not a nurse!

But I mellowed out a lot, my sister got married, and I have never been so happy for my family. My parents are happy and I realized that instead of concentrating on getting that guy, that this is what life is all about. Taking in the life moments like I did this summer.

The Show Goes on for Javier "Showtime" Vazquez

2009-08-05T21:53:00.000-07:00

Photo credit: Millenniamma.com

The Show Goes on for Javier “Showtime” Vazquez
By Breanna Armstrong

After defeating JC Pennington at ShoXC: “Elite Challenger Series” in October 2007, Javier “Showtime” Vazquez (13-2-0) announced his retirement claiming that he wanted to pursue his MMA career further as a coach.

Now, almost two years later, Vazquez is back and better than ever. “The more I coached, the more I ended up wanting to get back into it again.” said Vazquez.

On June 27, Vazquez clearly got right back into his fighting career, as he made his comeback at Ultimate Chaos, where he defeated Mark Kergosien with a guillotine choke just 19 seconds into the first round.

His nick name “Showtime” was given to him by his coach, UFC veteran, Romie Aram, because Aram said that every time Javier gets into the ring its “Showtime.” And this statement stands true as Vazquez has been noticed as one of the best technical MMA fighters in the world.

After wrestling at Mt. San Antonio College, Vazquez’s eye caught onto MMA and he started competing in tournaments, and started winning them, which resulted in his career. Betiss Mansouri, the owner of Millennia MMA gym, came along side of Vazquez and trained him to become the champion that he is today.

At the age of 33, Vazquez still stands as a tough competitor because “The older you get, you train smarter,” he says, “At 20, you can do whatever you want, but as you get older you have to taper your training. It has kept me wanting to keep training because I am not burned out. I’m happy, I’m in a better mood and I have the desire to train because I am not burning myself out.”

Vasquez has seen the rise of MMA and recalls a time when Millennia was one of the only gyms around the area. “The old gym started out as this large rectangular room and we put mats in it of course. After a while, practices started to get so big and we were running out of wall space so we thought of caging it off. It was really funny because we had an actual fencing company come out to cage it off. It wasn’t like the rubber cages today, it was an actual cage. And that was one of the best facilities around at the time. We called it the dungeon.”

Originally, Vazquez was one of the first owners of the Millennia gym, but he went on to start a gym of his own called “Showtime Jiu-Jitsu” as well as going back to his old college to teach Jui-Jitsu at Mt. SAC for five years.

Vazquez is now back at Millennia as a respected instructor. “As far as in the Inland Empire, I think that coaching wise, there is no one better than our gym, not even close. And even if someone has better athletes than us, if you give us those athletes we will turn them into super athletes.” said Vazquez.

“I want to compete at the elite level to just show how grateful I am for everyone who has watched my career and supported me from the beginning,” said Javier, “I just want to leave my mark on this sport. I think that I could get the opportunity to do that if I get in the WEC, that’s what I would like to do if the opportunity presents itself. Maybe I will.”

Just a month after this interview with Vazquez, right before his Ultimate Chaos victory, Javier “Showtime” Vazquez was signed to the WEC. It is looking like his mark is clearly being made on this sport and the show goes on.

TKO in Las Vegas

2009-07-29T23:22:00.000-07:00

July 25, 2009
Las Vegas Hilton

For 20 years, the World Championship Kickboxing has been a prestigious organization in the Muay Thai community across the world. Dennis Warner, the founder of the WCK, has created some of the most renowned shows in this rising sport.

Warner, has held World Championships all over the world under his promotion company, In Sync Productions Inc., and has brought the most international fighters to North America than any other American Muay Thai organization. Warner holds an event every month, holding a promising fight card to satisfy fans at each match.

For the WCK's 89th production, Redland’s Jared Lara, defeated Vaughn Lucas for the WBC Muay Thai National Title as well as the US Middlewieght Title at the World Championship Muay Thai in the Las Vegas Hilton on July 25.

Lara and Vaughn went five, three-minute rounds, until Lara ended up on top with his endurance clearly defeating Vaughn’s. Lara's win was a unanimous decision. This was the first bout of the evening; Lara wore his Title proudly and set the packed Hilton show off with high expectations from the crowd.

Baxter Humby, (35-5) from Los Angeles gave a great performance, as he defeated Chike Lindsay in the Welterwieght bout. Humby, who was born without his right arm, put on a great fight and took the win with split decision. After his victory, Humby addressed the audience and said, “The only limits that you have are the ones that you put on yourself.”

Also on the fight card was Thailand’s superstar, Malaipet, (138-28-5) who went head to head with England’s cup of tea, Rich Fenwick (28-8-1) to take Fenwick’s WBC International Super welterweight title, which Fenwick earned by defeating Malaipet in a close point decision earlier this year.

The Thailand native came out on top this time, sweeping Fenwick’s title from him and making the bout an unforgettable match. The crowd could see the smile on Malaipet’s face as he threw each punch at his opponent. With a unanimous decision, it was a sweet victory for Malaipet and his fans and was a great ending to the memorable evening.

Randy Couture and son, Ryan, made it out to the Las Vegas event as well, adding to the excitement of the night. Warner put on an unforgettable show and is holding his next event in Las Vegas as well on August 30.

Full Results: (from The Las Vegas Sun by Hepi Mita)

Malaipet def. Richard Fenwick via unanimous decision — WBC Muay Thai Super Welterweight International Championship.

Kevin Ross def. Justin Greskiewicz via TKO (head kick) Round 3, 1:49 — WBC Muay Thai US Welterweight Championship.

Jeri Sitzes def. Christine Toledo via unanimous decision.

Romie Adanza def. Paulo Da Silva via TKO (leg kicks), Round 4, 0:26 — IKKC International Championship, WBC Muay Thai Bantamweight US Championship.

Baxter Humby def. Chike Lindsay via split decision.

Scotty Leffler def. Shane Oblonsky via KO (knee to the head), Round 1, 2:23.

Jared Lara def. Vaughn Luca via unanimous decision — WBC Muay Thai US Middleweight Championship

Muay Thai Sweeps the Inland Empire

2009-06-15T21:32:00.000-07:00

Muay Thai Sweeps the Inland Empire (version of the Press Enterprise article that I wrote for June 13, 2009)
by Breanna Armstrong

Muay Thai is the national sport of Thailand that has been practiced since 1702. This form of martial arts consists of two fighters using punches or kicks of the shins, elbows, hands, feet, and knees to defeat the competitor.

This ancient sport is a stand-up game that sets the foundation for Mixed Martial Arts. It is a sport based on technique and core principals. Muay Thai is practiced all over the world, and is becoming a popular sport in the United States.

For 20 years, the World Championship Kickboxing has held Muay Thai competitions internationally, bringing in the best Muay Thai fighters from across the world to its shows.

The World Championship of Muay Thai, is the WCK’s 88th fight, which takes place at the Hollywood Park Casino in Inglewood on June 13.

With an impressive fight card, bringing in several international athletes, this display of Championship level Muay Thai will be one of the most highly anticipated shows that the WCK has ever hosted.

On the fight card are two of the Inland Empire’s toughest competitors, Sheila Telliard(1-1) and Michelle Percival (3-0). The duo trains out of United States Karate Organization in Riverside, with a dedication to the competitive side of Muay Thai.

Telliard, who went to Colton High School, has been training out of the Riverside gym for eight years, “My son started taking karate at USKO, and so I became a Karate mom. And then I got involved and started teaching classes and jumped right into fighting.” said Telliard.

“I started kick boxing ten years ago and I loved it from the first moment. I have been training at USKO for five years and it has taught me the focus of Muay Thai.” said Percival, who graduated from Notre Dame High School.

Telliard and Percival have been training together for the World Championship Muay Thai fight, and will be the two most anticipated female fights of the WCK show. “These two fighters get a lot of respect around our gym. Most of the guys here will not even get into the ring with the ladies, because they are such fierce competitors.” said Joey Pagliuso, owner of USKO and trainer to the ladies.

They spare together, train together and condition together which has not only helped them prepare for Saturday’s fight, but has also been a major support to both ladies who will be representing the Inland Empire in the World Championship of Muay Thai.

“My number one support through this training process has been my training partner, Michelle. It is so pushed that this is an individual sport, but through my trainers and training partner, to me it has become a team sport. I feel good about this fight, I am ready,” said Telliard.

Results: Sheila Telliard took out her opponent, Anna Danielyan, in the first round. Telliard took the win and gave an incredible performance.
Percival's opponent, Maria Morales, backed out of the fight after Friday night's weigh-ins. Percival, as well as the USKO team were recognized in the ring after Sheila's victory.
Over 2,000 in attendance at the Hollywood Park Casino on Saturday June 13, 2009.

Retiring my Pom Poms

2009-06-14T15:29:00.000-07:00

Today, June 14, 2009, I am officially announcing the retirement of my cheerleading career. For those who know, know that for over a decade, cheerleading has been a huge part of my life. I started dancing when I was 4 years old and joining cheerleading in elementary school, just felt necessary.

I have strained my voice, had girls dropped on me, broken a few limbs, endured a few black eyes and cheered my heart out for some of the most deserving teams in Southern California. Cheerleading has made me the peppy, high energy leveled woman that I am today. From this high-endurance sport, I have sharpened my communication skills and had a positive outlook on life as well.

I cheered for my jr. high, high school and college... and I can truly say, that through this sport I have created some of the best memories of my life. Hands down.

Many people do not see the side of cheer that a cheerleader does, the practices are grueling, focusing on conditioning, but instead of weights, we use people as our strength builders. Whether you are on the ground or in the air, you are responsible for your teammates life. It sounds really dramatic, but it's not, at any given time a girl could be dropped the wrong way and end in disaster. I have seen a lot throughout my 10 years of experience. This sport should not be taken lightly.

Being put in such a position of responsibility has helped me to become a woman of integrity and maturity. I have grown so much, because of my responsibilities that cheer has endowed to me. And I am so thankful to my coaches and teammates along the way.

Without the girls that I have cheered with over the years, I don't think that I could ever survive this sport. It is truly a sisterhood, nonetheless a sport. Because you are with each other for days at a time, it creates this camaraderie like no other. I can say in confidence that I will never forget any girl that I have ever served on a squad with. Each girl has contributed to my life.

For my senior year of high school, I had choreographed the homecoming dance routine to be preformed on the football field of Saddleback Community College. The bleachers were filled with hundreds of people. People who have seen me cheer a million times before. (I went to the same school from 6th grade-12th grade) But for some reason this time was different. I was on homecoming court that year and I was the only cheerleader on homecoming court who chose to change out of my gown and into my cheer uniform for the halftime show. There was no way that I was about to leave my girls hanging for our biggest performance of the year. I was so rushed for time, and almost panicking that I would not be able to change back into my gown for the parade. And I was nervous that the crowd wouldn't like the dance, but as son as that music came on, our varsity cheer team was on and I have never seen our fans cheer louder for us when we hit our ending stunt. It was one of the best routines that I have ever done and I will just never forget the feeling of accomplishment that came with it.

Another moment that I will never forget is going to the NCA National Cheerleading Collegiate Championship in Daytona Beach, Florida this April. It was an experience that every cheerleader dreams of. I had never worked harder to be on a squad in my life until I started cheerleading for my University. We were pushed to the limit and our hard work had paid off as we accepted our bid to Nationals. When we competed on the National floor for the first time, it was unlike and feeling ever, just the lights and the sea of judges and cheerleaders. Wow! You will never see anything like it. Just the experience of being there and getting second place in challenger's cup and hearing our coach, say "we left out hearts on that floor," all of those things made a year of hard work and high stress pay off.

I have had the text book cheer career, it does not get better than the 10 years of memories that I have to forever hold on to. So today, announcing my official retirement, is no easy task. But it is one that has been in the making for quite some time now. I realized that as my last year of college cheerleading was coming to a wrap, that I needed to focus on my career and let go of my favorite pastime. After all, it's not like I am going to become a professional cheerleader. I am a writer, I have just become the managing editor for my publication and I am focusing on a big dream that has just started to take off. I need to focus on that for now.

It's been fun, it's been peppy, it's been pink and frilly with a lot of ribbons and hairspray and pom poms. I am excited for the next chapter in my life and I owe so much of my motivation to this sport that has taught me so much.

Long Road To MMA (featured in the Press Enterprise Newspaper) May 14, 2009

2009-05-22T21:40:00.000-07:00

For further reading check out: http://www.pe.com/sports/breakout/stories/PE_Sports_Local_S_karakhanyan_mma_14.3ed3b28.html

And After a great fight, lasting 3 rounds, Georgi "Insane" Karakhanyan defeated Alber Rios, taking the featherwieght title.

If Pro is a No Go

2009-04-07T12:26:00.000-07:00

By Breanna Armstrong

So you are a senior collegiate athlete that is just about to graduate? Either you’re going to be signed to your favored pro team or you’ll have your degree and job offers will be thrown at your feet! The “real world” should come as second nature, right? This is usually never the case for any college graduate. After the graduation cake is all eaten, what comes next for the typical college athlete who has just entered into the working world?

According to Sports Illustrated, “You have a roughly one in 12,000 chance of becoming a pro. The average career lasts in the vicinity of five years.”

So now what? Sure if you don’t make it pro after graduating there’s always that degree to fall back on. But research has clearly shown that making the transition from college athletics to the "real world" is a difficult, frustrating and oftentimes painful experience for student athletes. The reason for this is, unlike most traditional students, athletes are focused on practicing and competing in their sport well into their senior year. This significantly reduces the time available to participate in career fairs, campus interviews and other programs designed to help them find gainful employment. But how does one begin to transition from an athlete to business?

CBU alumni, David Odien, thought the same thing after he played three seasons on the men’s soccer team at California Baptist University. The coach recruited him while he was playing soccer at MT. SAC. He graduated in 2003 and after graduation, David explained, “For me, like many student athletes, athletics was a huge part of my life. I decided that I would coach soccer because it was what I knew. I coached at the high school level for five years while looking for a solid career. It was a tough transition for me and I luckily found Athletes to Business.”

“Athletes to Business is a privately owned company dedicated to coaching, counseling and placing highly talented student athletes into the corporate world. Working in harmony with educational institutions and America’s top companies, Athletes to Business helps student athletes make a smooth transition from the playing field, to their vocational field, and find rewarding employment.” Said Odien.

Odien first heard of Athletes to Business from a friend who had used their services to start a great career after college. “After speaking with Athletes to Business, I became extremely excited and passionate about helping student athletes who were struggling with the transition from College to Corporate. Then an opportunity opened in the Inland Empire for a Career Coach and I quickly accepted the position.”

Odien and other career coaches meet with the students during their Junior and Senior year. “We sit down and discuss the importance of making good decisions their first year out of college. We then help them use all of our resources to position themselves to make these decisions. We work on their resumes, we help them with interview preparation, and we can help them set up interviews with corporations they are interested in.”

Athletes to Business has helped many student athletes transition and prepare for life after college. “A2B” is working on almost every college campus in California, including Point Loma, Westmont, UCLA, UCR and many others. They have helped many students on each of these campuses, and many of these students are 2 – 3 years into their careers and are extremely happy with the guidance that A2B provided.

For Odien, “A2B has provided me the opportunity to have a positive impact on my students lives. It has enabled me to become a positive mentor and resource for many great people. It is an unbelievable gratification to see students that we with successfully transition from the playing field to the working world. The positive feedback and gratefulness we receive everyday makes this opportunity that much more exciting.”

Athletes to Business is not just offered to athletes but to all students looking for guidance into the working world after graduation. It is important to develop a career consciousness early on and therefore Athletes to Business is open to anyone who is looking for guidance and help in finding and preparing for their career. They provide help with resume development, interview preparations, and if the student is interested in Business, they can be set them up with high quality interviews with great corporations who are excited about seeing them.

This program has changed many students’ lives and provides a very practical transition into the working world. To get involved with this successful program, visit: www.athletestobusiness.com or to contact David Odien, an Inland Empire Career Coach, you can contact him at: dodien@athletestobusiness.com

Only you can choose your future, and Athletes to Business will be there to help you to reach for your goals.

I am Living out of my house!!

2009-03-22T18:22:00.001-07:00

Some people live out of a few suitcases, some live out of their cars and some people live out of their dorm rooms. Going back home to my parent's house in San Clemente this spring break, I realized that I was living out of my house.

Let me put this into a better perspective for you... I am literally living off of three piles of clothes in my unrecognizable room. My room has been taken over by my mother... who insists on keeping her clothes on my once very used desk.

My place at the kitchen table has been replaced with my sister's wedding invitations, and I am constantly trying to remember what channel is MTV. Is it channel 42 or channel 49? Everything in my house is kept in a different place and therefore, the only thing that I can think of is this is how it feels to live out of my house.

Even my city feels different! There use to be a Pinky Wear apparel store down the street from my house in the same shopping center that has always been there. But alas, as the theme of change takes over my spring break, Pinky Wear has closed down. A disappointment in my wardrobe purchases for sure.

Everyone in my family is going crazy with planning my sister's wedding extravaganza. My entire family is on edge about the smallest things. For example, when my aunt rsvp'd for the wedding and included all 5 of her children in the count, my mom practically blew a gasket on my dad, bringing up the fact that kids were not invited and that she was never invited to their wedding.

But nevertheless, planning this fantasy, over the top, dream wedding for my sister has brought all of my family members together. And then there is me. The only underaged maid of honor in the world, who supposedly has to plan this unforgettable bachelorette party for her sister. Everyday someone in the wedding party asks me the update on the party planning. And everyday my response is less and less. I am just trying to maneuver around my house, and trying to get to know it once again, nonetheless plan a bridal shower, a bachelorette party and a joint bachelor and bachelorette party. My brother in-law-to-be's best man is a marine, who doesn't have a clue about party planning either. I just want to fit in with my family again, and provide big time for this wedding as they all have.

It's even to the point where my family has these inside jokes and even though I have no clue what they are laughing at, I always try to catch it on the coat tails of the joke... It's quite humiliating really.

My spring break was like an easter egg hunt, I was discovering not only my house, my city, my maid of honor duties but my family all over again.

ONE LOVE, Her Love, love her

2009-03-12T17:48:00.000-07:00

Three days ago my Grandma would have been 90 years old. It will be five years on March 28, since she has passed away. It will be five years that my heart has not fully been restored and it will be five years since I have loved whole-heartedly.

I know that I have discussed my Mimi in previous blogs, but this particular blog is solely devoted to her. Mimi was unlike any person that I have ever met, or will ever come to meet. She loved so hard and with every second of her life she devoted to those who loved her in return.

Mimi was diagnosed with Alzheimer's when I was a little girl. She lived with us all of my life and was therefore more like a mother to me without the discipline. :) We would get into all kinds of mischief together and because of her dementia, play time became more and more because as I grew older, she seemed to be growing younger. Now understand that this is not "The Curious Case of Marjorie Frampton" by any means, but as the Alzheimer's took over, so too did the failure of her memory.

There was never one second in my life where I questioned the love that this woman had for me. If there was ever perfect love one this earth, it was hers. Her unselfish, patient and everlasting love. As a young teenager, I remember going to her room to check on her and finding her writing her letters to each and every one of her relatives and friends. She would just be sitting at her desk, content in her own company.

She was the funniest lady that you will ever meet. Even at the age of 84, she was "sharper than a whip." as she would say. Because she was an amputee of one of her legs, Mimi was confined to a wheelchair for the last quarter of her life. But as my mom says, who never parted from my grandma's side, "She never complained, not once, she would be patient and said that the wheelchair gave her character." Even in the most frustrating times, she would never complain or play the blame game, which would be so easy for most to do.

Instead she would make the best out of it. She would let us have rides on the wheelchair, play shopping cart around the house with it, and her most famous joke of all, "If anyone hurts your feelings, tell them that I'm going to roll over them with my wheelchair!" It was just comedy to see this precious little old lady have the most outrageous things to say.

Life without her has been hard. Really hard, still hard every day of my life. I was the happiest, carefree little girl when she was in my life. And after she passed, I would struggle to find happiness. I still do. I am having a hard time finding that happy little girl that I once was, I guess that when my Mimi passed, I grew up.

But I have found growing up to be too hard, too difficult and virtually impossible. I have discovered that one really never does fully grow up. It's just a matter of how someone reacts to situations that defines their "maturity." I have been struggling so much lately because I feel that I am trying to wrestle this fine line of who I am.

I don't need others telling me who I am, and I have learned that I need to stop listening to others. It's about me and my heart and how God speaks to me. I found my self almost screaming at the top of my lungs in tears today begging God to show me love... this love that I have no idea about. I relate any kind of love to the one that my grandma gave me unconditionally. I thought I knew what love was, what contentment was, what being a grown up was, but what I failed to do was to let another person determine my thinking.

I can't put my happiness in someone else's hands. That's something that I will never do again. For it is only God's hands that can fill me. Because if you are doing it for God, your heart will always be content.

I am so sick of thinking that I am depressed and having others suggest counseling, I am just more than ready to be free and dependent on God. I wish that this blog could solve all of the problems that I have addressed but for now, I know that I need to leave this open, and determine the answers on my own.

Mimi's love has set the bar high, in many ways I think that I have the same love that my grandmother had. I just wish that she was here so I could ask her how she dealt with someone she loved not loving her back. I wish I could ask her how she handled hurt. Because when you love so hard, hurt comes at such a heavy cost.

For now all I can strive to be is like my grandma... Because her love lives on in me.

One Love, her love, love her

Not Just Another Mom

2009-03-01T18:53:00.000-08:00

"Octo-mom", native of California, rightly owns up to her media given nick name as she is a mother of 14 children. Originally she had 6 kids and recently she had octupletes! Nadya Suleman is truly the super mom of California.

The Suleman family has been flourished with media since the octuplettes were born. The media has been obsessed. Productions like US magazine has covered the family in almost every issue of theirs since the "octo-mom" discovery. TMZ of course, has even found a way to cover the family in a negative light. Exposing their insufficient funds all over the internet as well as their news show. The family really has not been able to take a break and enjoy themselves since Nadya gave birth.

I think that the Suleman family should be able to enjoy their privacy especially in this very important time in their lives. They should be able to enjoy the small moments that has been taken over by the media. The media should in my opinion, back off and let this family, living under such unique circumstances, live their lives.

I think that having 14 children is as difficult enough as it is and having the media there to capture every moment seems to present a more challenging surrounding. I can only hope that the Suleman family is adapting to their new family and are having an amazing time as new parents of 14.

Personally, I know that I could not be in the same position, but from a Christian perspective I support the Suleman's multiplication to our planet. For advise, I would strongly suggest that they make special time for each of them as they are growing up.

Cheer Nation

2009-01-16T11:58:00.000-08:00

This is my cheer squad at California Baptist. I have been a cheerleader for almost a decade and I have been dancing since I could walk. I love being apart of something that encourages others. It takes making one person smile at a game or a competition to make all of the hard work that I pour into this sport, worth it.

I never thought in a million years that I would continue doing cheerleading in college, but after my best friend that I cheered with in high school convinced me to try out for the team, I had to do it.

It's a very time-consuming sport, and naturally, as with any women's sport, it's very emotional as well. But I am loving it so far! I have learned so much in just this year that makes me not regret taking on this "part-time" job. On top of that, I love the girls, I would have never met them if it wasn't for cheer. I am so entirely thankful for all of them.

We are a competition squad and we have an entire list of competitions coming up. Our next one is next Saturday. If you want to check us out any further go to www.cbulancers.com.

I need Africa more than Africa needs me

2008-11-20T11:35:00.000-08:00

I need Africa more than Africa needs me. There is not one day that goes by where I forget about the friendships that I made with the most amazing people that I have ever met. There is not one day that goes by where I do not feel grateful for the life that I am so blessed to live. Not one day goes by where my heart breaks for the things I saw in Africa. My heart smiles with the things that Africa taught me.

To Africa, I am just another visitor to Malawi's broken land. I am just another "azungo" [white person] who came across seas in hopes to save lives. Though I loved so hard in this place where love is rarely shown, to Africa, my story is just a dent in this chipped away picture. I can only think is there a day that goes by where Africa remembers me?

I went to Malawi, Africa, the most HIV/AIDS infested country in the world, with a missions group from my high school in the spring of 2007. It was my heart to aid in the support of HIV/AIDS. I held faultless babies that had this disease, I saw the innocence in their eyes. I played and hugged and loved children who were left on the streets by their parents for death. I went deep into the "brush" to teach and pray for these communities that had been out-casted because of their disease. I have danced in the the middle of 500 people from different tribes. I have never had a better time in my life. I have taken some hard soccer balls to the face, those kids know how to play! It was all worth it for a smile for even a small moment.

I took a suitcase there, and took a heavy heart full of memories home. Africa taught me so much about myself and my heart. Without Malawi, the is no me, there is no heart... I am so blessed to live the life that God specifically chose for me. Why me? Why not Blessings, this little precious baby who was infected with HIV/AIDS, that I held and cried over for hours. Why couldn't she live my life? She is more worthy than I am.

Africa has taught me to not take any moment for granted. I have taught Africa that there is love in America and there is a heart to serve. My lesson learned was far more valuable than I could ever teach Malawi.

I will go back to this land that has taught me everything.

Cafe' Sevilla

2008-11-10T19:12:00.000-08:00

Café Sevilla

Breanna Armstrong

Café’ Sevilla can be found in the heart of Riverside, providing a Spanish dinning experience that one could only find deep in the liveliness of Mexico. The elegant café has been open since 1987, and was dedicated to provide the most authentic Spanish cuisine around. Sevilla’s menu is award winning and their friendly service creates an enjoyable time that keeps their customers coming back.

Seven nights a week, Café Sevilla, also provides music entertainment to be enjoyed after a meal or if one is just wanting to enjoy the excitement of live music from local musicians and Disk Jockeys. Sevilla has been the heartbeat of Riverside’s entertainment since it opened in 1992.

With their distinctive musical artists, the ambiance of their luxurious surroundings and the warm welcoming of their employees, it is no doubt that this is a hotspot of Riverside.

The best part about this hotspot is that it is located 10 minutes from California Baptist University. Located off the University exit, the café’s address is:

3252 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside, CA 92507

For more information on Café Sevilla call: (951) 778-0611

Sevilla is the place to get dressed up and to get away from campus for a few hours. It has an amazing atmosphere that has made me a regular to this hotspot since I found it last year. It's in a nice part of town and a good time there is always guaranteed. I definitely recommend it. Contact me on my blog for any further questions.

Beat the boredom and get to know Riverside!

Love Like This

2008-11-01T14:51:00.000-07:00

For our journalism midterm the promt requires us to write about our passions. When I think of what I am passionate about, my mind is pretty much swamped with things that I love and appreciate. In all things that I do I am passionate in them. But when I really dig deep to find my most prized joy in life I realized that it is my love for my family.

Today is a very exciting day for my family. It is my sister's engagement party! She has been dating the man of her dreams for 7 years now. And he has become like a brother to me. So this party will be a very special and long anticipated day for both Rachel and Chad.

Rachel and Chad met in Jr. High and High school. We all went to the same little private school together and Rachel took an interest to Chad, who was a grade older, when she was in 8th grade. I remember her coming home and telling me how much she liked this boy.

After 2 years of Rachel's secret crush on him, and after attending a prom with his older brother, Todd just to grab Chad's attention, Chad finally asked Rachel out. Not to mention that he asked her out the day that she got her braces off.

When I first met this boy that made my sister act all funny, he had his ears pierced and had bleach blonde hair. I was impressed... my parents, not so much.

Rachel and Chad grew up together. And as they grew up they grew together. They learned together. When he was struggling, she was with him, routing for his every step and his every move on the side lines. When she would struggle, he was the only one who could ever talk her through the storm. They went through many beginnings together, beginnings that make a person who they are. They are those beginnings that have made them same. Because without Chad, there is no Rachel. And without Rachel, there is no Chad. You see my two heros are geeting married on July 11th, to take on the next series of beginnings together. This engagement represents a seal that they will forever be togther. Their love is an example to all who come into community with them . It is a supported love, a right love and a genuine, once in a lifetime love.

Today my parents handed me a letter to read in front of the entire famil and Chad. I opend it and saw that it was an invitation for Rachel and Chad to have their wedding at the St. Regis in Laguna Beach. I made the public announcement of their matramony site that will forever bond them in a covenant of love.

Van Buren Drive-In

2008-10-13T19:57:00.000-07:00

The Van Buren Drive-In movie theatre is another Riverside Hotspot to join the list. It is Southern California’s largest operating Drive-in. Here one can sit back in the comfort of a car and watch as their favorite movie plays upon the big screen. It makes for a truly authentic, straight from the movie Grease, moment.

It has 3 screens (each lit with a double-feature),  and an overall capacity to park up to 1500 cars. The Van Buren drive-in is open year-round and provides movie audio with FM-stereo radio broadcasts.

The admission: $5 for ages 12 & up and for 11 & under free. And during the weekends this historic drive-in theatre holds the Flea Market Swap Meet here as well.

The best part about this week’s hotspot is that it is just 3 minutes from California Baptist University’s campus at 3035 Van Buren Blvd. To contact the Van Buren Drive-in call 951-688-2360.

This is one of my favorite places to go in Riverside. A bunch of my girlfriends and I all get together and dress in our pj's and make a fun night out of it. We love it! Also, let's be honest, it is a great new idea for dates. I mean girls love the old fashion feeling, and men just love movies period.

So what are you waiting for? Grab some of your favorite snacks, some pillows and blankets and head down one exit to enjoy the newest movie in a new way!

The Riverside Plaza

2008-09-17T19:53:00.001-07:00

The Riverside Plaza is full with fun stores and restaurants that are appealing to everyone. Here you can grab some frozen yogurt from the new Cherry On Top and enjoy a movie at the Regal movie theatre right across the way. The venue offers a convenient and intimate setting to make you feel like you are at your hometown’s main street.

And another plus about this site is that it is only five minutes up magnolia from CBU. For more information on the Riverside Plaza, check out the website at: www.shopriversideplaza.com

[phone] 951.683.1066
[fax] 951.781.7985

[address]
Riverside Plaza, Suite 200
3545 Central Ave
Riverside, CA 92506

[email]
info@shopriversideplaza.com

Beat the boredom and get to know Riverside!

Riverside Hotspots

2008-09-17T19:53:00.000-07:00

Are you new to the Riverside area? When you look outside of your dorm room window do you either see a parking lot with heat sizzling off of it or a patch of grass growing frivolously in the Riverside sun? If you answered yes then you are probably thinking, “What do people do around here!?” I was once in this very situation just a year ago as a new freshman at CBU and a new comer to Riverside. I was determined to beat the boredom of the Inland Empire and I set out on a search to find the “Hot Spots” of Riverside, California.

After much research and many interesting and not so interesting encounters, I finally devised a list that not even the entertainment book could come up with. Luckily for you, the bored CBU student, it is found here on my blog and on page 8 of the Banner Newspaper.

I will be covering not only nightlife but activities to do during the day as well. You will be recommended to restaurants, entertainment venues, activity centers, theme parks and local hot spots that can keep you preoccupied during your stay here. I hope you enjoy!

On this blog you will be able to find full profiles on the hottest spots around CBU. Feel free to contact me with any questions, comments or concerns. Beat the boredom and get to know riverside!

Writing More Than Words

2008-09-11T14:35:00.000-07:00

Well as of now the people who are reading this know full well that I am on the Banner Newspaper staff at California Baptist University in Riverside, California.

I love writing, it plays such a huge part in my life and it always has. I have been writing stories and poetry since I was in elementary school. Last year, I wrote, illustrated and published my own story and poetry book for all ages called, Secrets of a Healing Heart. This book has been one of my biggest accomplishments in my life so far. It not only captured my passion for the arts but it helped me get through the toughest time in my life.

I had lost my grandma my freshmen year of high school. She lived with my all of my life and she practically raised me. She was my hero, my inspiration and the start and ending to my smile. Losing her was like losing a part of my heart, that part in which I have never fully gotten back.

The wounds were still fresh my senior year of high school. And when the time came to excel for our senior projects, I took it upon myself to not only make this a project worth receiving my high school diploma for, but to make this a project that will benefit me then and in the future. Months and months laster, with no training at all in authorship, my book was finished. My heart was at rest and I could finally come to love and appreciate my passion for writing again through other's positive feedbacks.

Having someone appreciate and relate to my work is my number one goal as a writer. With out a doubt in each piece this is what I strive to do.

I have won three Creative Communication National Poetry contests, and had all three of those poems published in the Anthology: A Celebration of Young Poets.

On the Banner staff at CBU, I am currently the senior writer. Writing for this newspaper has given me so many opportunities as a journalist. I have interviewed some amazing people and covered some capturing stories.

I started working for the banner last summer, August 2007. I was originally on the Angelos Yearbook and wrote for the Banner, when needed. The third week of working for the newspaper, I was assigned an off camera broadcasting interview with Pastor Rick Warren, Who just made the cover of Time magazine and hosted the Civil Presidential Forum in August.

I was traumatized! Here I am, this little freshmen girl wearing this red L.A.M.B. sweater with my press pass hung around my neck, my reading glasses on and my notebook full of questions faithfully at my side, while awaiting for this celebrity to enter the room full of cameras and professionals.

Just as I was going over the questions I was about to ask in my head for the 100th time, in walks in Pastor Rick Warren with his entourage and a huge smile on his face. He came right up to me, shook my hand and introduced himself. My lip was quivering. After I introduced my self, we began talking about where I was from and what church I went to. And how I lived a few cities away from his church and how he started a youth branch at my city's High School. We were laughing and I immediately became very comfortable with the situation. It was really neat being able to see this public icon in a personable light.

We began our interview and he answered everyone of my questions with "text book" answers. After the interview was over he gave me a hug and told me that I had done a very good job. I was on cloud nine and was still smiling when I went to sleep that night. I was truly a journalist.

Covering Rick Warren as my first feature article ever, launched me into the world of journalism in which I have come to love so much.