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A Pathway to Transformation and Leadership

GALLATIN, Tenn.Grandmaster Konrad O. Spillmann, with nearly six decades of martial arts experience, was awarded the prestigious AAU TaeKwonDo 9th Dan Grandmaster level received in Taekwondo on April 22, 2026, and received his International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation 3rd Degree on October 31, 2025, under the Rocian Gracie Jr Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu method. He also holds high ranking […]

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image 6 A Pathway to Transformation and Leadership

Grandmaster Konrad O. Spillmann, with nearly six decades of martial arts experience, was awarded the prestigious AAU TaeKwonDo 9th Dan Grandmaster level received in Taekwondo on April 22, 2026, and received his International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation 3rd Degree on October 31, 2025, under the Rocian Gracie Jr Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu method. He also holds high ranking levels in ITF, USATKD. Kukkiwon. JidoKwon TaeKwonDo and other martial arts styles. This milestone reflects his unmatched skill and a life built on resilience, discipline, and a deep commitment to both personal and collective growth. His journey goes beyond the dojo, where TaeKwon-Do became a path to self-healing, teaching, and leadership that has, for over 45 years, impacted countless lives.

 

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Who is Grandmaster Konrad O. Spillmann?

Grandmaster Konrad O. Spillmann, known as KwanJangNim Spillmann in martial arts circles, is not just a Grandmaster, but also a teacher, mentor, and community leader. His martial arts journey is intertwined with his dedication to shaping the lives of others, instilling resilience and leadership through his teachings. His role extends beyond martial arts as a vehicle for personal growth and community empowerment.

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Grandmaster K.O Spillmann believes in giving back when he can and has personally won many competitions, awards, and citations of excellence. His schools over the last 40 years have received many top community awards, citations, and letters of commendation. He was also the co-director of the Los Angeles 2002-03 Martin Luther King – “Kingdom Day Parade” and has received many awards, including the California State Senate award. Grandmaster Spillmann has trained in Korea, Brazil, and many other countries to hone his martial arts skills, knowledge, and teaching methods. He has taught many seminars to law enforcement and military personnel in many countries, and taught motivational seminars and self-defense seminars to many large corporations.

Grandmaster K.O. Spillmann started at the young age of 4, and martial arts has been his passion and only career path. He had many challenges, health struggles, and was homeless at a young age. He stated, “The greatest person in his life was not just his teacher, Grandmaster Y.K.Kim’s who school was located in Orlando, Florida. Spillmann said Grandmaster Kim is his TaeKwon-Do father, the man who changed his life.

Spillmann says, “ I was street fighting and living in my car. Grandmaster Kim guided me and molded me as a person, besides pushing me to be the best fighter. He taught me perseverance, honor, humility, hard work, dedication, and the never-give-up mindset.” Grandmaster Kim gave me a job as an instructor, and I can never repay him for all he did for me. Without Supreme-Grandmaster Young Kun Kim, I would have been lost, homeless, or worse, dead.” Because of him, my life today would not be the same; everything I achieved is because of him, my family, students, and friends, and the best repayment is to continue to share his wisdom with others.

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Grandmaster Spillmann also thanks all his other world-class teachers and fighters he trained with and learned from; they were and are still his family today, like Rocian Gracie Jr, Grandmaster Suk Jun Kim. Grandmaster Kwang Sik Myung, Grandmaster James Park. Professor Dewart, Ajarn Nelson Siyavong, and so many more famous masters and fighters; he was blessed to train with.” What makes Grandmaster K.O. Spillmann’s teaching methods the best is his years of training with high-level Grandmasters and Masters. He has learned from some of the top Grandmasters in the world to become one of the best teachers.

Grandmaster K.O. Spillmann, after owning 8 academies and many licensed member branches in the USA and overseas, decided to retire to Gallatin, TN to teach the true meaning of leadership, life skills, and methods of changing lives. So, with his family, they moved to Tennessee and opened a school in 2012. His instructors are not Black Belts; they are internationally certified master level instructors who teach Traditional and Sport TaeKwon-Do, Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, HapKiDo, Wing Chun, and Tai Chi. The Spillmann family has developed many champions over the decades, but their main focus is self-defense and developing successful leaders and life champions.

Global Martial Arts USA (GMA) also offers after-school care, pick-up from local schools in Gallatin, TN, and a K-12 Homeschooling Tutorial program 5 days per week.

Achievements and awards:

Grandmaster K.O. Spillmann earned high-level black belts in multiple martial arts, including Taekwondo 9th Degree Black Belt, Rocian Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & IBJJF 3rd Degree Black Belt, HapKiDo 7th Degree Black Belt, Karate 4th Degree, Judo Black Belt, and a ranking in Wing Chun. He also trained in Boxing, Muay Thai, and Mixed Martial Arts. He was also a sparring partner for many great fighters.

A Teacher, Mentor, and Life Educator

Grandmaster K.O Spillmann worked hard refining his mental and emotional fortitude and martial arts skills. This journey of mastery — both internal and external — laid the foundation for his positive teaching philosophy, one that continues to impact his students today in Gallatin, Tennessee. Spillmann, with over 45 years of teaching experience and over 57 years of training, has dedicated his life to guiding others and developing the champions of today and the leaders of tomorrow. His teaching philosophy centers on more than just martial arts and self-defense techniques; it’s about helping students become better versions of themselves. Whether working with special needs children or children battling self-esteem, focus, and confidence issues. Martial arts is not just for kids; it also assists adults overcoming addictions and past personal struggles, and it helps adults/seniors looking to regain flexibility, strength, stamina, confidence, and vitality. His focus for adults additionally is developing peace of mind, personal power, and growth.

Many people struggle with weight issues due to past trauma, and learning at his school will help adults face their fears and overcome the obstacles holding them back from inner peace, happiness, and success.

Grandmaster K. O Spillmann’s approach has touched thousands, fostering confidence, leadership, and resilience in his students and leading them to true success. His school, Global Martial Arts USA, offers a space for people of all ages to come together, learn, grow, and be part of a family that cares. “Martial arts is about life education. It’s about becoming better in all aspects of life,” he says, emphasizing that it’s about more than just physical strength; mental strength it takes commitment to change, are the key to success, peace of mind, and happiness.

Giving Back: Using Martial Arts to Empower Others

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Spillmann’s journey also extends to social good. Throughout his career, he has been involved in charity work, including several fundraising events for D.A.R.E breaking over 200 end-cap concrete blocks, and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, where he broke over 411 concrete blocks to raise money for children battling cancer. This act was not only a demonstration of physical and mental strength but a reflection of his commitment to using his abilities to make a positive impact on society.

This has been a lifetime commitment, and in my opinion, he does not play martial arts; it is in his blood and the air he breathes.

Beyond fundraising events, Spillmann has traveled globally, mentoring underprivileged youth in countries like India, empowering children in impoverished areas, and teaching them to rise above their circumstances. His dedication to community service highlights his belief that martial arts can build more than physical strength, but also help people build a stronger character, honor, perseverance, commitment, goal-setting, confidence, and resilience.

Grandmaster K.O Spillmann also believes in spiritual growth and has assisted in Christian outreach in India and other countries. In his spare time, he works on his classic cars and has written books, including the TaekwonDo Martial Arts Business Manual. He is currently working on his next book (Strengthening Your Marriage). He has also written many poems and lyrics, including several Contemporary Christian and motivational songs based on his life philosophy. He also assisted his wife, Master Joanne Spillmann, in producing the Little Lions World book series that she wrote for young children. His wife, who has a Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development, is also working on books to help teens struggling with life skills and overcoming the struggles of divorce, bullying, and life changes. The focus is on leadership development and developing success and happiness in every child.

The Spillmann Family Legacy: 4 Generations of Excellence

The Spillmann family has built a lasting legacy in martial arts. Spillmann’s wife, Joanne, who holds a 5th Degree Black Belt and a Child Development Degree, and three children, Andrew, Kurt, and Anastasia, are all high-level black belts, continuing the family’s tradition and focus on martial arts and educational excellence by developing the future leaders of tomorrow. Together, they have all contributed significantly to the martial arts world, “military way” and life education, creating programs such as the After School Leadership Program, The GMA Educational Academy, and a line of nutritional products, at GMA Warrior Supplements and the GMA Academia of Rocian Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu – Gallatin Branch.

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A Continuing Legacy of Growth and Service

For Grandmaster K.O. Spillmann, the AAU 9th Dan Grandmaster level rank is just another milestone in an ongoing journey of self-improvement. “I’m not perfect, and I might not be the best,” he says. “But I will always try my best.” His humility and dedication to continual growth and leadership have earned him respect not just in the martial arts world but as a martial artist and a figure who inspires others to achieve higher and become a leader in society. He has written several books, one being a TaeKwon-Do business book, to help other instructors learn how to operate a professional school, helping others, and his wife, Joanne, wrote a book series, “Little Lions World,” for children to develop life skills and overcome obstacles in life. Grandmaster Spillmann, in his spare time has also written poetry and many songs and produced several Contemporary Christian albums.

Join the Legacy of Growth and Leadership

Grandmaster K.O. Spillmann’s story is one of transformation. Whether you want to develop your martial arts and self-defense skills, build confidence, or become a stronger leader, his school offers a growth and leadership path for all ages. He stated, “Martial arts isn’t about just kicking, punching, or violence; it’s about learning practical self-defense, balance, respect, achieving peace of mind, and leadership. It is about knowing when to walk away, talk away, fight for what is right, and defend others from injustice. If you can not walk away, fight to win at all costs.”

”Join a community of like-minded individuals committed to growth, success, personal power, and leadership. His academy also offers after-school Pick-Up and Christian- based homeschooling tutorial programs five days per week, from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily. GMA-ASP does offer transcripts and tutoring to students. GMA-ASP children’s programs are designed to develop future leaders, and the Teachers focus on the whole-child method of learning. Global Martial Arts USA also offers seminars for groups, law enforcement, and military personnel. GMA offers programs for Adults, Seniors, Children, and Family Discounts.

If you want more than just a kick or punch and want to change your life, develop peace of mind, and strengthen your mind, body, and spirit. Then this school is a must-go and has the experience needed to be the best.

For more information, visit their family:

Global Martial Arts USA – Gallatin TN

GMA Warrior Supplements

GMA Educational Academy

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Valtorc International is proud to offer our USA fabricated METAL SEATED 3 WAY BALL VALVES

Kennesaw, Georgia  Valtorc International : USA Manufacturing Operations Valtorc international USA manufacturing operations has announced the completion of their new High Performance 3 Way all 316     Stainless Steel METAL SEATED ball valves.S372M series. These High performance 3 way ball valve packages, are being used in various industries worldwide. Chemical plant operations, Oil and Gas […]

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Valtorc International : USA Manufacturing Operations

Valtorc international USA manufacturing operations has announced the completion of their new High Performance 3 Way all 316

 

valtorc international is proud to offer our usa fabricated metal seated 3 way ball valves Cl6F1Z Valtorc International is proud to offer our USA fabricated METAL SEATED 3 WAY BALL VALVES

 

Stainless Steel METAL SEATED ball valves.S372M series. These High performance 3 way ball valve packages, are being used in various industries worldwide. Chemical plant operations, Oil and Gas refineries, Food Processing plants, Water treatment facilities , and many other manufacturing plants worldwide. We are very proud of our engineering team, for the production and implementation, and fabrication of this high performance package. These packages are available in sizes from 1/2″” to 2″, in all stainless steel material, All packages are available with Pneumatic or Electric automation. Or can be used manually if required. We are very excited to promote these High quality packages, and are looking for qualified customers and distributors worldwide to help us promote these packages …

Valtorc International P.O. Box 1928 Kennesaw Georgia 30156

Call us. 770-423-7100

A J Bental

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.valtorc.com

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The Man Behind New York City’s Luxury Revival: How Ilya Zavolun Is Elevating the City’s Event Scene

NEW YORK, NYOnce a symbol of Manhattan’s architectural grandeur, Capitale is once again placing New York City at the forefront of luxury hospitality for a global audience.

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Once a symbol of Manhattan’s architectural grandeur, Capitale is once again placing New York City at the forefront of luxury hospitality for a global audience.

As the eyes of the world turned to New York City during the FIFA World Cup, one venue emerged as the defining symbol of the city’s return as the global capital of luxury hospitality. Capitale, the iconic landmark housed within the former Bowery Savings Bank at 130 Bowery, hosted FIFA’s prestigious gala dinner, welcoming world leaders, international dignitaries, and distinguished guests for an unforgettable evening that showcased New York at its absolute finest.

For hospitality entrepreneur and Capitale visionary Ilya Zavolun, the evening represented something much larger than a successful event—it marked a turning point for New York City.

 

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“Ask me what changed my mind about what this city is capable of, and I’ll point to this summer,” said Zavolun. “The world came to New York with genuine expectation, and when FIFA chose Capitale for its gala dinner, I watched guests from every corner of the globe experience something truly extraordinary. They weren’t simply impressed by the architecture—they felt they were somewhere that mattered.”

Housed inside one of Manhattan’s most celebrated architectural landmarks, Capitale combines historic grandeur with modern hospitality, offering an experience that few venues in the world can replicate. Rather than competing on convenience, Zavolun believes New York has an opportunity to once again become synonymous with elegance, craftsmanship, and unforgettable experiences.

“Somewhere along the way, New York started competing on convenience instead of grandeur,” Zavolun said. “This summer proved that the appetite for extraordinary experiences never disappeared. The world still wants New York to be magnificent. We simply stopped offering it. My mission isn’t about nostalgia—it’s about restoring the standard.”

The FIFA gala demonstrated the philosophy that has become the foundation of Capitale’s approach to hospitality: true luxury is found in intentionality.

“Capitale is more than a venue—it’s a piece of New York City’s history,” said Zavolun. “Our responsibility is to honor that legacy while creating experiences that feel timeless. True luxury isn’t measured by extravagance; it’s measured by how every guest feels the moment they walk through our doors. When people leave remembering how they were treated, not just what they attended, we’ve done our job.”

Every event hosted at Capitale is designed around the story each client wants to tell. Whether welcoming international organizations, corporate leaders, philanthropists, or families celebrating life’s most meaningful milestones, the venue emphasizes thoughtful curation over extravagance.

“True luxury isn’t about excess—it’s about intention,” Zavolun said. “Every event should have a purpose beyond celebration. When you understand the story you’re trying to tell, every element comes together to create an experience people remember long after the evening ends.”

Zavolun’s entrepreneurial journey spans decades, beginning with building and successfully selling a technology company before entering the hospitality industry. His experience taught him that exceptional venues are built not only through architecture but through people.

“Reputation compounds slowly and disappears quickly,” he said. “You earn it one event at a time. The building is remarkable, but it’s our team that creates the experience. Guests always know the difference between people who simply work somewhere and people who genuinely take pride in what they do.”’

Looking ahead, Zavolun believes New York has an extraordinary opportunity following the international attention generated this summer.

“The cameras may have moved on, but this is only the beginning,” he said. “I want people to return to New York not simply for business or sporting events, but because nowhere else in the world offers hospitality, culture, architecture, and elegance quite like this city. If we inspire a new generation of hospitality leaders to pursue excellence instead of convenience, everyone benefits.”

As New York continues welcoming international visitors, investors, and luxury travelers, Capitale remains at the forefront of a renewed movement toward timeless elegance, exceptional service, and world-class hospitality. Through landmark events and unforgettable guest experiences, the venue continues to demonstrate why New York remains one of the world’s premier destinations for luxury gatherings.

About Capitale

Located in the heart of Manhattan at 130 Bowery, Capitale is one of New York City’s most iconic luxury event venues, housed within the historic former Bowery Savings Bank. Renowned for its breathtaking architecture, soaring ceilings, marble interiors, and timeless elegance, Capitale serves as the backdrop for prestigious galas, corporate events, private celebrations, charity fundraisers, luxury weddings, and international gatherings. From hosting globally recognized organizations to welcoming distinguished guests from around the world, Capitale has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional hospitality and unforgettable experiences. With a commitment to excellence and meticulous attention to detail, Capitale continues to elevate New York City’s standing as a premier destination for luxury events on both the national and international stage.

Media Contact Details
Liana Zavo
Email: Send Email

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Cosmopolitan Food Group Expands Packaged Olive Oil Export Focus

IZMIR, TürkiyeCosmopolitan Food Group, an international food company operating through Türkiye and the United States, announced an expanded focus on packaged olive oil exports as part of its broader international growth strategy. The company, led by chief executive officer Sinan Bozdağ, is directing resources toward branded, retail-ready olive oil in an effort to move Turkish-origin products […]

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Cosmopolitan Food Group, an international food company operating through Türkiye and the United States, announced an expanded focus on packaged olive oil exports as part of its broader international growth strategy. The company, led by chief executive officer Sinan Bozdağ, is directing resources toward branded, retail-ready olive oil in an effort to move Turkish-origin products beyond bulk commodity trade.

 

1786022181 0 sinan bozdag cosmopolitan ceo.jpg1 Cosmopolitan Food Group Expands Packaged Olive Oil Export Focus

 

The strategy centers on packaged olive oil, a category the company considers strategically important for Türkiye’s food industry because it allows producers to build higher value through branding, packaging and traceability rather than volume alone. Cosmopolitan Food Group supports this model through a portfolio of olive oil and Mediterranean food brands that includes Palermo, Papa Palermo, Casa di Oliva, Olivitaly and Cordelio.

Founded in the United States in 2009, Cosmopolitan Food Group initially concentrated on olive oil sales and distribution before developing a wider international supply structure. The group later expanded its operations in Türkiye, connecting sourcing, production and export activity with retail and foodservice demand abroad. That development reflects a growing role for Turkish companies in branded food exports, particularly in markets where Mediterranean products continue to gain shelf presence.

Under Bozdağ’s direction, the company has built an operating structure designed to support both brand ownership and distribution capability. Its United States operations provide access to retail and food-industry channels, while its Türkiye-based activity maintains close relationships with producers and suppliers. According to the company, this model helps position Turkish-origin products in international markets with an emphasis on consistency, packaging standards and long-term supply reliability.

“Packaged olive oil exports matter not only for company growth, but for the way Turkish food products are represented in international markets,” said Sinan Bozdağ, chief executive officer of Cosmopolitan Food Group. “The objective is to keep building reliable brands, disciplined supply systems and stronger visibility for Mediterranean products that originate from Tükiye.”

The company’s product range extends beyond olive oil to include balsamic vinegar, honey, salt and seasoning products, sun dried tomatoes, capers, sauces, olives, spreads and preserves. This breadth allows the group to serve different segments of the international grocery and foodservice market while keeping olive oil at the center of its export identity.

The company frames packaged exports as a way to keep more value within Türkiye’s food supply chain. Rather than shipping unbranded product for others to bottle and label abroad, branded exports keep packaging, quality control and brand equity closer to the producer. According to the company, this approach also supports more predictable demand planning for the suppliers it works with and a clearer link between production standards and the final product on the shelf.

The renewed focus also reflects a wider shift in the olive oil sector. As international buyers place more weight on origin, quality, packaging and brand identity, exporters are increasingly expected to offer more than volume based supply. For Turkish producers, the company notes, this creates an opportunity to compete through product presentation, retail readiness and brand recognition rather than price alone.

Türkiye is recognized as one of the major olive and olive oil producing countries in the Mediterranean region, yet the packaged export segment remains an area with room for further development.

By prioritizing branded exports, the company aims to support an approach in which Turkish origin products compete more visibly on international shelves. Further information on the company’s brand portfolio is available online.

Cosmopolitan Food Group stated that its continued focus will remain on expanding packaged food exports, strengthening supplier relationships and increasing brand recognition in global markets, combining Turkish sourcing capability with international sales and distribution experience. Additional background is available on the company website.

About Cosmopolitan Food Group

Cosmopolitan Food Group is an international food trade and export company operating through Türkiye and the United States. Founded in 2009, the company specializes in olive oil and Mediterranean food products, including balsamic vinegar, honey, sauces, olives, spreads and preserves. Its brand portfolio includes Palermo, Papa Palermo, Casa di Oliva, Olivitaly and Cordelio.

The company’s mission is to strengthen the global presence of Turkish-origin food products through reliable supply and branded packaged exports.

Media Contact Details
Gizem Gezgin
Cosmopolitan Food Group
Email: Send Email
Website: cfgoil.com

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