Introduction

Hi.  I am looking forward to meeting you and getting to know you personally.  Together we will explore the fascinating world of science.  My vision is that we will have great fun while exploring the expanding edges of our understanding about the world.

I believe you are the future leaders of our planet.

About me:  (As is standard practice, I'll talk about myself in the third person.)

Gregory Louie is a published biomedical research scientist.  For the 10 years prior to teaching, he conducted basic scientific research in neurobiochemistry.  This research included fundamental studies on the causes of neurodegenerative diseases such as Mad Cow's Disease, Alzheimer's and Down's syndrome.

Greg is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati with an Honors diploma in Chemistry in 1982.  After making a mid-life career change to teaching, he completed a Master's degree at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 2003.  My senior Master's project involved developing a method for attaching molecules to carbon nanotubes.

Greg loves science, loves learning, and loves teaching science.  Although, he has taught all grades from 6-12.  He thinks seventh graders are the best!

Greg also an advocate of having a strong body and strong mind.  You'll find links to his favorite physical activities below.  He attributes his youthful vitality (he is over 50) to a lifelong interest in sound nutrition, focused relaxation and physical training.  Below you'll find links to some of the masters of the martial arts that he  has had the pleasure of training with.

He is proud of his scientific and teaching accomplishments, yet he is most proud to be the father of his loving 6 year old daughter, Qiuhu (pronounced Cho (long o) Hu (as in the question word, who?)) and a husband of his remarkable, accomplished, dancin' and fun-loving wife, Caryn, who is a master teacher of the Chinese language.

Carrboro, July 2009

US Soo Bahk Do Federation
Soo Bahk Do is a Korean martial art similar to the Olympic sport of taekwondo. Physical training in these arts provide a firm foundation for all martial arts training.

USA Shaolin Temple
The history of most Asian martial arts (Japanese, Okinawan, Korean) acknowledge the Shaolin temple as the birthplace of the martial arts in Asia.

Having the pleasure of training with Shifu Shi Yan Ming, one can understand why Shaolin temple arts spread so easily across national borders. Shi Yan Ming is a happy and delightful soul, at peace with himself and the world and has those "mad" kung-fu skills.

Just take one look at his website and you'll understand more that my poor words can express.

Chen Taijiquan
Taiji is well-named. Translated roughly, the Chinese characters for taiji mean the "greatest ultimate."

Many traditional Japanese and Korean martial arts includes some form of taiji in the highest level forms. These forms are taught only to the masters of their art. And the Chen Style is considered by many as the most complete and authentic style.

Even after 30 years of training in other martial arts, I am considered a rank beginner in taiji.

Paso A Paso
In the beginning, practitioners take their martial arts very seriously. But true masters are always laughing.

Why? Beginners minds are occupied with getting all the details right. A master's mind is free. It doesn't have to think, the body simply responds correctly after years of training. Without thoughts of fear crowding the mind, a master can simply enjoy each moment of life.

I'm not at that point yet, but in the meantime, it is important to cut loose, stop thinking so hard and have some fun.

Dancing is my way of cutting loose and moving freely. Since my wife has a passion for dancing the Mambo to the Afro-Cuban beat, I've taken up Cuban Casino Style dancing.

Check out my instructor's website and turn on the music, if you find your feet tapping, you'll understand the joy and freedom of movement!

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