Never Forget

13 years ago Terrorists attacked America hurting and killing thousands.  But they strengthened millions by reminding us that America is worth defending.  Every person who died on that day died a hero.  As someone who's life emboldened us all.

I created this piece as a tribute to them.  God Bless America!

Congratulations Patrick

10 years of hard work and strong determination have paid off. Patrick Reed is now the 26th Black Belt under Master Yamashita. His whole family was in attendance for the big day.

Our major complaint with the test comes right back to THE BASICS! He was nearly failed because of his stances and pivots. We can not stress enough how important they are.

Also, Gilbert was presented his Black Belt Certificate by Sensei Mits. Gilbert passed his black belt last December. Now all he has to do is find a large enough space on the wall to display it.

Black Belt Test coming soon

Patrick Reed tested for 1st kyu 4 years ago and is now ready to test for his Black Belt.  Patrick is the owner of The Blacksmith's Corner Pet & Feed Store, and he generously hosts our Dojo in the southern most barn.  A testament to health and hard work, he will also be turning 70 years old.  Proving it is truly never too late to achieve your goals!

If successful, he will be the 26th Black Belt under Master Mits Yamashita.  To say these tests are rare is an understatement!  The test is appropriately scheduled for Saturday July 26th

Patty Hernandez gets her Orange belt

This last Saturday Patty Hernandez took and passed her Orange Belt test. No big surprise there. Don't let her small stature and minor handicap fool you, this girl is tough! She rides her bike to class (15 miles one way), takes every one of Sensei Mits' El Camino classes and cross trains in other arts as well. Poor Sotari didn't stand a chance.





We are all very proud if you Patty. Keep up the good work!

Happy New Year

Welcome to the future. The year is now 2014! Here in the future all people cherish each others differences, welcome challenges and of course practice Aikido regularly.

XMas time off

Ho Ho Ho Merry Christmas everyone

This years Holiday Potluck yesterday was another complete success. As always the food was varied and awesome.



But the real reason we do it is to meet with our Dojo family once more before we break for the year.

Our dojo will be closed till Saturday January 4th 2014

The 25th Sanbukan Black Belt

After a failed test a couple weeks ago Gilbert Rodriguez came back with renewed determination and successfully passed his Black Belt Test today. It's not uncommon to fail the first time and Gilbert proved that you just get up, dust off and work that much harder.






Gilbert started with the Dojo 30+ years ago and now joins the extremely exclusive group of Black Belts under Master Mits Yamashita. After more than 50 years Sensei Mits only has 25 of us.

Congratulations Gilbert