Celebration and Sake

My friend and sempai Naoto Akiyama is leaving for Japan after ten years here in NYC. He would like to remain but his company is withdrawing him and he hasn't found a new company to sponsor his visa. Tonight we hosted a lovely party after class with many moving speeches and much sake drinking. Naoto's aikido is very, very strong and he has clearly helped many people in the dojo with their progress. More over he has been the president of Shin Budo Kai and a very dedicated member of the dojo. He will be missed and we hope for his return.

First class was katate-tori second class was two handed grab behind the back.