Dojo News for October

In September Sabrina, Rosa, Mara and myself flew to NM to attend the Women’s Friendship Seminar that had been organized by Kristina Varjan Shihan.  This was the third camp to be organized for women, the first two were in the early 90’s at the instigation of Chiba Sensei.  But this one was a little different in that of the 40 women who came, many were from organizations other than Birankai (the first seminars took place pre-Birankai when we were then part of the USAF Western Region).  There were young students, old students, young teachers and old teachers from all over the country.  All the teachers were given a class to teach.  The venue was a retreat center outside of Santa Fe on the site of a monastery for Carmelite nuns. It was peaceful, beautiful and the food was fabulous!
 
There was a supportive feeling amongst the women, focused training and there were two evenings set aside for discussion.  We are all looking forward to doing it again next year.
 
Looking ahead:
 
  • October 13-15:  Our seminar with Alex Peterson Sensei is coming up in two weeks and a number of people will be coming from out of town to attend.  RC has put out an email with a plan of action.  Please give him your usual great support.
  • Saturday, November 4:   Daiwa will be holding a one-day seminar to commemorate Jack Arnold’s passing.  Classes will be from 1 pm – 5:30 pm.  Let me know if you are interested in attending and we can put together a car-pool.
  • December 8 – 10:  San Diego Aikikai will be hosting a seminar with Juba Nour Sensei.  See bulletin board for flyer and details.