History and Development of the Midwest Group
Master Chen Zhonghua’s first workshops in Iowa were in 2007 and 2008, hosted by John Brown. In the summer of 2009 I organized the first Midwest Practical Method gathering, along with Tim and Levi, in the Northeast Iowa area, which was led by Tim Duehring. The group met periodically throughout the year for several years. Tim move to China to work for Master Chen, which Levi Sowers then led our gatherings. Several of our group members became disciples of Master Chen Zhonghua, which initially, Tim was the only one. The Midwest disciples, in chronological order, include: Levi Sower, John Upshaw, Erwin Ramthun, Jeff Clevenger and Christopher Dusek.
Levi Sowers and I have organized 3 Midwest Chen Style Taijiquan Practical Method Workshops that was taught by Master Chen. These workshops occurred in October of 2013, September of 2015 and July of 2016. We have organized the first North American Practical Method Training Camp that will be led by Master Chen this coming July.
The Warriors’ Journey Groups
I created and facilitate 2 groups, one for children and the other for adults, which combines Taijiquan with Somatic and Interactive Psychotherapies. I have about 16 participants and I am adding another group to accommodate more. I facilitate each group once per week. I teach it no differently that I am taught, except I have an added therapeutic intent. I have seen children transform from powerless to being empowered, developing self-confidence, becoming more courageous, more able to face the challenges of life and more able to be mindfully present in the moment.
Private Lesson
I teach private lessons and small class at Pfeiffer Springs Park on Sundays at 6 am. In the winter months other locations are decided upon. Levi, Erwin and Jeff (now residing in Huston Texas) teach in their towns.
