We recently had a landmark moment at the dojo: over 30 years of training and instruction! Senior Instructor Greg Gruninger took the opportunity to make a few remarks on behalf of dojo members and present a signed bokken to founder and dojo-cho Jaimie Sheppard Shihan:

“This club has been in operation since 1995. That’s 30 years! …. In the beginning, it was Sensei Sheppard and another black belt throwing each other around and hoping someone would notice. Sheppard Sensei has cultivated and nourished our study of aikido with a wide range of aikido experiences on our behalf including trips to Japan and the U.S as well as presenting many visiting instructors. Thanks to his drive, he has enriched our study of aikido. Not only does he take an active interest in our aikido study, he takes a personal interest as well – many of us can attest to when he has reached out to make sure we are ok. And let’s not forget his Dad jokes! Every club needs a leader, a mentor, a guide and someone to nourish our study of aikido. Let’s have a big hand for ours…. Sensei Sheppard.”

Thank you Sensei Jaimie, we’re so looking forward to the next 30 years!