Dear Friends and Members of Chicago Aikido Club,
After careful consideration, the decision has been made to close the club. Due to declining membership and other factors, we can no longer continue operation in our current form.
However, please note that Joe Takehara Sensei will continue to teach his Sunday morning 11:30 am – 1:00 pm class at the Tohkon Judo Academy location. The focus will be Takehara Sensei’s particular take on the internal aspects of Aikido. New and experienced students of all ages, experience levels and aikido affiliation are welcome to attend for however long Takehara Sensei is able to offer instruction.
We would like to thank parent organization, Aikido Schools of Ueshiba (ASU) for having made us part of its extended family. Several club members will be transferring to Chicago Aikikai and continuing their affiliation.
We would also like to thank Doug Tono Sensei of Tohkon Judo Academy for having provided us a home these past several years (and for supporting Takehara Sensei for the foreseeable future). We have enjoyed being part of their annual Kagami Biraki event, and introducing aikido to his judo students.
Also thanks to Japanese American Service Committee (JASC), where Tohkon Judo Academy is based, as well as Chicago Wushu (led by Dan Pesina Sifu) and Design Dance for having past provided space when we were starting up.
Sincerely,
Dwight Sora, Manager
Chicago Aikido Club
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