Hi everyone!
Once again I find myself glad that I called this an “almost monthly” newsletter. Summer at the dojo was great, but jam-packed full of events, new ventures, and preparing for black belt testing! This newsletter is similarly jam-packed, but the information is important, so please bear with me!
Schedule Swaps and New Class Options
With the start of the school year comes a few class changes and additions. Here’s what we’ve got going on at the dojo:
+ Our homeschool class runs on Tuesdays at 10am starting September 15th. If your child is homeschooled and you would like to meet other homeschoolers, you are welcome to attend this class!
+Sensei Jason test-ran a Saturday class in the summer and has decided to keep it! Starting Saturday, September 19th, he’ll be running a class from 1pm – 2pm (we will not have this class on the 5th or 12th due to Labor Day and the Holland Lit Fest). This class is open to both kids and adults so long as they are focused, attentive, and ready to work hard! Think more theory, fewer games, if you’re wondering if it’s a good fit for you or your child.
+Speaking of Sensei Jason, he and Sensei Michelle have graciously offered to tag-team our Thursday 4pm class this semester while I teach at GVSU. Thank you, Senseis!
+ Finally, all classes are cancelled on Monday, September 7th for the Labor Day holiday. Enjoy the day!
Black Belt Testing
Our annual black belt test took place on Tuesday, August 18th, and I’m excited to inform everyone that our four candidates all passed their test! I’m honored to have received my 4th degree, and I want to congratulate Sensei Shannon (2nd degree), Sensei Josh (2nd degree), and our newest black belt, Sensei Riley (1st degree)! Thank you to everyone who showed up to support our testing candidates!
Uechi Olympics
Do you hear that sound? The one that sounds like the Olympic theme but quickly turns into the Karate Rap? If you do, then you know that it’s once again time for the Uechi Olympics! Our tentative date for this community event is Saturday, October 17th in the afternoon, so mark your calendars! More info to come.
New Arrivals and August/September Birthdays
We have a few new members of the dojo, and so as a reminder, if you see someone you don’t know, please introduce yourself!
A very happy birthday month (well months) to these dojo members:
- Lysle A.
- Jason G.
- Waverly G.
- David M.
- Shannon M.
- Danielle W.
- Nathan Y.
- Owen Y.
We hope you guys have a very happy birthday!
Phew! Made it! Thanks, as always, for all of your hard work and dedication to practice. If you would like to share anything with the community at large or if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me via email or phone. Have a wonderful holiday, everyone, and happy start of September!