....thank you!



Osu everyone,


Yes, it's been twenty years since that first day I stepped onto the Y's Seido dojo floor in the deep recesses of the place many of us call "our second home." I won't even attempt to estimate the number of pushups, sit-ups, punches, blocks and kicks I've done over those years. Or the katas... the kiais...the gallons of sweat...the bruises & sore muscles...the hours...


What I do know is that I am forever grateful for the twenty years with the West Side Y's Seido karate program. I started with Jun Shihan Mel & Jun Shihan Debbie as my instructors. They instilled in me the respect & dedication that I hope I will carry with me always, and instill in others.


Jun Shihan Mel, I respectfully bow to you & thank you for all you've given me and every student that has walked onto our dojo floor. Many have come & gone. Many have stayed, as is evident in the number of black belts @ the West Side Y. And the newer members leave no doubt in my mind that our program attracts people of good character with the desire to challenge themselves & persevere.


Again, thank you one & all. With a low bow & heart-felt OSU,
Sensei Chris