As we head into the final quarter of 2013, I have a lot to reflect upon. The film tour of Pui Chan: Kung Fu Pioneer is almost at an end. The Wah Lum Temple is celebrating its 33rd Anniversary on November 2, 2013. The Wah Lum Cultural Center is currently in construction. It would be fair to say, there is a lot going on.
Next week, Grandmaster Chan and I head west to Los Angeles, to the Sunscreen Film Festival. Although we do not have a school in California, we have a great network of friends and martial arts colleagues there. After living there briefly, it is hard to believe I have not been to LA in over 10 years. I am excited that my father’s birthday in Los Angeles will be celebrated by screening at the final film festival for Pui Chan: Kung Fu Pioneer. It’s fitting really. Although I am relieved that the tour is ending, I am also a little sad.

Toronto screening with the Tai Sue Family
I enjoy watching my father at the Q&A, taking photos with fans, and discovering my family sees new things in the film each time!
The Wah Lum Temple celebrates its anniversary on the exact day of the grand opening 33 years ago, November 2. It’s funny how everything is lining up on the calendar this quarter. I couldn’t have planned it better. I always look forward to these family gatherings, and use it as a chance to connect with my fellow sifus. I am so grateful that many of them are taking time out of their busy schedules to come and celebrate with us. We will be sharing knowledge at a teach in, and performing together on stage in the evening. It will certainly be a memorable event.
Finally, the most recent project we have taken on is the construction of the Wah Lum Cultural Center and Museum. The building will be located directly to the left of the existing Temple. Plans for the museum you ask? Stay tuned!

Wah Lum Cultural Center construction
The Center will display some of Grandmaster Chan’s calligraphy, antique weapons, and memorabilia (items from China, his first school, and journeys that he has taken). There will also be a projection room so that we can host private screenings of films and presentations. it will certainly be a center of historic value not just for Wah Lum, but for the Chinese culture as well. Grandmaster Chan has talked about this museum for a long time, so I am very happy to see more of his dreams coming true. Film trivia: the land that Grandmaster Chan and I are on at the end of the film is the site of the future Wah Lum Cultural Center!
The third quarter of the year is definitely not slowing down for me. If anything it is speeding up! However, I look forward to the challenges ahead and sharing Wah Lum traditions with everyone. (even if I go a little crazy in the process)