By Frank Sinatra, AAP Editor
Vaughn Frye began his fascination with the martial arts in Vietnam, where a military scout from the Republic of China (Taiwan) taught soldiers some techniques. He was hooked.
“The techniques and training stuck with me,” explains Frye, a longtime practitioner of Hung Gar White Crane Kung Fu and Tai Chi Chaun. “Ever since then, I’ve been on a mission.”
Upon retirement, Vaughn fulfilled a lifelong dream of opening up a community-based martial arts store. And for the past year, Frye has operated a small store in Pennsauken aptly named, “A Place Called Nam.”
“I’ve always wanted to open a martial arts store,” says Frye. “Something small that deals with the local community.”
A Place Called Nam is stocked with a variety of martial arts items, including uniforms, training equipment, and the like. Product not in store can be ordered and in stock within 48 hours. Frye also sells herbal teas, incense, and other gift items. The store also hosts a martial arts club twice a month, where practitioners offer demonstrations and “talk shop.”
Frye is celebrating his first year in business with a special event on Saturday, Sept. 15. From noon to 8:00 p.m., the store will have 15 percent off of items $15 or higher. There will also be free water ice and cake for customers.
A Place Called Nam is located at 4104 Maple Ave. in Pennsauken, right at the turnoff from northbound Rt. 130. For more information, call (856) 383-8013.
