November 18, 2010 3:11 pm Yakutsk time
On the 12th, we celebrated Malcolm’s birthday with the family. His real birthday is February 12, but since we won’t be with the Russian family at that time, we had a birthday party for him.
Vitya’s birthday was on the 13th. So, we woke him up with flowers and the traditional “Congratulations” cheer.
We have been very busy visiting friends and fellow martial artists. A few days ago, I met with the president of the Russia’s International Martial Arts Federation. This weekend will be the International Martial Arts Festival. It will run Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. At the festival, I will be inducted into the International Martial Arts Federation. I will be the first American to receive such an honor. I have also been asked to do a speech on Sunday. The topic for the speech is the use of science in martial arts. I’m looking forward to it.
Last night I taught a “master class” to junior Judo and Sambo students at the Gerisamov dojo. I also spent some time with MMA hopefuls.
While at the dojo, I was interviewed by a local sports reporter named Alexander. He was the same reporter that did the special on our guys back in 2006. Two years ago, he was involved in a terrible car accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. Fortunately, he is able to continue working in the profession he loves. I couldn’t help but admire his optimistic outlook on his own life.
Sadly, the medical community here is not advanced enough to do much for him. He has had a difficult time finding funding to support physical therapy. We hope to find some kind of helpful information for him in the states upon our return.
Tonight, I will visit Gerisamov’s banya. I will be sure to take the camcorder with me to give perspective.
I haven’t had a chance to randori again. I will next week for sure, as it will be our last week in Yakutsk. I will also pay of visit to Shihan Silistein at the Genshinkan dojo.

...more video coming soon.