Mark's revised adventure

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[Mark Freeman]

Anyone who read my thread posted last year, http://www.aikiweb.com/forums/showthread.php?t=20207 will probably have concluded that my travel plans had come to naught. Well, plans sometimes change, and mine are no exception. So for a number of different reasons I won’t go into, here is my revised plan, which is for the next 3 months, all on to take place.

I have a flight booked into Seattle on the 21st of June. Then I have 90 days (the max I can stay in the US, without going through the costly and uncertain process of obtaining a Visa). So I will have 3 months of travelling to as many dojos as I can, meeting as many people as I can, learning as much as I can, along the way.

There are many aikiweb posters I have come to know from their writing over the years, that I would like to meet and practice with (many kind offers from my original thread, which I hope to take up). Quite when that will be is not too certain, as I have decided to ditch the idea of working to a fixed route and itinerary. I am going to try the ‘going with the flow’ approach and set off, in the vehicle that I have sorted out (a 1977 VW camper), and see where the process leads me. I probably have enough time and just about enough money, to see both coasts and some points in the vast interior. But, I do want the freedom to be able to stay somewhere, if I meet someone who has a good stuff I can learn from.

I would appreciate any suggestions of teachers you feel I simply ‘must’ meet. Although my aikido practice has been Tohei’s ki model based, I am looking forward to experiencing all styles. I have met Ikeda Sensei when he came to the UK recently, and enjoyed his teaching immensely. Are there any/many teachers there in the US who you feel are operating at a his or a higher level, and that I might get to feel?

Any suggestions on etiquette and the right way to approach my encounters, would be gratefully received. Is it OK to just turn up at a dojo and politely request to practice? Should I make contact with the sensei by phone/email before hand and request permission? As I will effectively be a ‘rankless ronin’ I will be carrying a black and white belt, it makes no difference to me, which one I wear. Should I mention the grade I hold in my own organisation?

Anyway, I am really looking forward to meeting many people on this little jaunt, so look out for an older Englishman in an old German bus, looking for new experiences. He maybe coming your way very soon.:)

regards,

Mark

[MM]

Hi Mark,

If you find yourself near the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area, let me know. I'll buy you dinner and go over the training I do.

Mark

[Brian Beach]

On your way down the coast I would stop by here and see Mike -

http://www.aikidoofashland.net/about_dojo/friedl.htm

[RonRagusa]

Hi Mark -

Glad to hear the trip is still on. Our invitation's still open. Let Mary and me know when you're approaching western Mass. and we'll set something up.

Ron

[Budd]

If you make it up to the Buffalo/Niagara Falls area of New York, lemme know.

[DH]

Hi Mark
Sorry I will be missing you in Seattle I will be there for a week and leaving June 15th.
Shoot me a P.M. if you are interested in meeting up with like minded Aikido people I know there. I would suggest avoiding their regular classes and opt for their IP nights or private get togethers.
Dan

[Allen Beebe]

Hi Mark,

If you are in Portland Oregon feel free to look me and the guys up. I'll be playing host to some strange Dutchman at that time so be warned!

Allen Beebe

[Mark Freeman]

Hi Mark,

If you find yourself near the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area, let me know. I'll buy you dinner and go over the training I do.

Mark

Hi Mark,

will do, I have been interested in your posts for quite some time, so it would be great to meet and train with you (nothing too 'modern' though;) )

regards,

Mark

[Mark Freeman]

On your way down the coast I would stop by here and see Mike -

http://www.aikidoofashland.net/about_dojo/friedl.htm

Hi Brian,

thanks for the link, I will look him up. Do you train with him yourself?

regards,

Mark

[Mark Freeman]

Hi Mark -

Glad to hear the trip is still on. Our invitation's still open. Let Mary and me know when you're approaching western Mass. and we'll set something up.

Ron

Hi Ron,

will do. As you can see, I am entering on the opposite coast. This is mainly due to me doing some research on buying and registering a vehicle in the US (Mary Malmros had warned me it was different in different states). It seems, post 9/11, it is very difficult for us 'foreign' folk to do. I have a good friend in Seattle, who can sort it all out for me, hence the change in plans.

Anyway, I look forward to seeing you and Mary, later in the summer.

regards,

Mark

[Mark Freeman]

If you make it up to the Buffalo/Niagara Falls area of New York, lemme know.

Hi Budd,

will do, thanks for the invite,

regards,

Mark

[Marc Abrams]

Mark:

My previous offer is still good!

Travel safe,

Marc Abrams

[Mark Freeman]

Hi Mark
Sorry I will be missing you in Seattle I will be there for a week and leaving June 15th.
Shoot me a P.M. if you are interested in meeting up with like minded Aikido people I know there. I would suggest avoiding their regular classes and opt for their IP nights or private get togethers.
Dan

Hi Dan,

you can't get away from me that easily Dan, I will track you down somewhere over there and make sure I get some more hands on time with you! (maybe Orange County, Ca?)

I will be in touch by P.M as I am keen to work on the IP as much as I want to roll around and have fun doing aikido.

hope to see you pretty soon, I want your feedback on my progress, and more to work on:cool:

regards,

Mark

[Mark Freeman]

Hi Mark,

If you are in Portland Oregon feel free to look me and the guys up. I'll be playing host to some strange Dutchman at that time so be warned!

Allen Beebe

Hi Allen,

I will definitely be in touch, if you can handle a strange Dutchman, then you can definitely cope with a Brit with a dodgy sense of humour;)

look forward to it,

regards,

Mark

[tarik]

Seattle and the west coast (SF Bay Area and the LA Basin) are great areas to begin with lots of good teachers. I hope we get a chance to meet, but if not, have a wonderful trip!

[Jim Sorrentino]

Hello Mark,I would appreciate any suggestions of teachers you feel I simply ‘must' meet. Although my aikido practice has been Tohei's ki model based, I am looking forward to experiencing all styles. I have met Ikeda Sensei when he came to the UK recently, and enjoyed his teaching immensely. Are there any/many teachers there in the US who you feel are operating at a his or a higher level, and that I might get to feel?

If you get to Baltimore, Maryland, I strongly recommend a visit to Baltimore Aikido [http://baltimoreaikido.com/]. Both Chuck Weber-sensei and Charlie Page-sensei are old students of Saotome-sensei and Ikeda-sensei, and have also hosted a wide range of teachers, including Bill Gleason-sensei and Mary Heiny-sensei. If you make it to Baltimore, then continue down the road for 40 miles or so to Washington, DC's Aikido Shobukan Dojo [http://www.aikido-shobukan.org/]. If you time your arrival on the east coast around early to mid-September, there is a stong possibility that Saotome-sensei will be in residence at the dojo. Of course, if you've made it that far, I hope you'll be willing to drive another 15 miles and visit my dojo in Arlington, Virginia [http://www.aikido-nova.org/]. Although I'm not operating at Ikeda-sensei's level, there are a couple of people on the mat whose work you may find interesting.

Any suggestions on etiquette and the right way to approach my encounters, would be gratefully received. Is it OK to just turn up at a dojo and politely request to practice? Should I make contact with the sensei by phone/email before hand and request permission? As I will effectively be a ‘rankless ronin' I will be carrying a black and white belt, it makes no difference to me, which one I wear. Should I mention the grade I hold in my own organisation?

My experience both as a host and a vistor has been that a phone call or e-mail to the dojo contact listed on the website a day or two before you arrive is always appreciated. (If you PM me when you're getting near to the east coast, I'll do whatever I can to help smooth the way.) Some dojo charge a small mat fee, and others (like mine) do not. ASU dojo recognize ranks from other organizations, so if you visit any of the places I've mentioned, please wear your black belt and hakama.

See you on the mat, I hope!

Sincerely,

Jim

[Mark Freeman]

Mark:

My previous offer is still good!

Travel safe,

Marc Abrams

Hi Marc,

thanks, I will be in touch. My anti clockwise west coast start, will probably have me up your way in late summer. However, I know you travel around a fair bit, so if you keep me informed, I may see you 'away from home'.
regards,

Mark

[Mark Freeman]

Hello Mark,

If you get to Baltimore, Maryland, I strongly recommend a visit to Baltimore Aikido [http://baltimoreaikido.com/]. Both Chuck Weber-sensei and Charlie Page-sensei are old students of Saotome-sensei and Ikeda-sensei, and have also hosted a wide range of teachers, including Bill Gleason-sensei and Mary Heiny-sensei. If you make it to Baltimore, then continue down the road for 40 miles or so to Washington, DC's Aikido Shobukan Dojo [http://www.aikido-shobukan.org/]. If you time your arrival on the east coast around early to mid-September, there is a stong possibility that Saotome-sensei will be in residence at the dojo. Of course, if you've made it that far, I hope you'll be willing to drive another 15 miles and visit my dojo in Arlington, Virginia [http://www.aikido-nova.org/]. Although I'm not operating at Ikeda-sensei's level, there are a couple of people on the mat whose work you may find interesting.

My experience both as a host and a vistor has been that a phone call or e-mail to the dojo contact listed on the website a day or two before you arrive is always appreciated. (If you PM me when you're getting near to the east coast, I'll do whatever I can to help smooth the way.) Some dojo charge a small mat fee, and others (like mine) do not. ASU dojo recognize ranks from other organizations, so if you visit any of the places I've mentioned, please wear your black belt and hakama.

See you on the mat, I hope!

Sincerely,

Jim

Hi Jim

Thank you for that information, that is really helpful. I hope to be over your way around late August (I have to be back in Seattle by mid Sept).

I look forward to the opportunity of meeting and practicing with you and your colleagues.

regards

Mark

[Mark Freeman]

Seattle and the west coast (SF Bay Area and the LA Basin) are great areas to begin with lots of good teachers. I hope we get a chance to meet, but if not, have a wonderful trip!

Hi Tarik,

thanks, keep your eyes open for a white VW bus:)

regards,

Mark

[phitruong]

if you happen to be near my way, please give me a ping. i don't operate at Ikeda level, but i can operate at Phi's level which usually beats out Ikeda's level in term of foods and drinks and company. :)

[Marc Abrams]

Hi Marc,

thanks, I will be in touch. My anti clockwise west coast start, will probably have me up your way in late summer. However, I know you travel around a fair bit, so if you keep me informed, I may see you 'away from home'.
regards,

Mark

Mark:

Dan will be at my place 8/17 & 8/19. I will be gone 7/5-7/8, 7/17- 7/23, 8/9-8/12 , 8/21-9/2.

Marc Abrams

[Nicholas Eschenbruch]

Mark,
in the Bay area, if you get down there, I have found great training and hospitality at Kayla Feder's dojo in Berkeley and Linda Holiday's in Santa Cruz. Both nice towns, too.

In SF, I strongly recommend you check out Robert Nadeau, if you have not seen him before. His stuff and personality dont agree with everybody, but he is definitely impressive in his way.

Have a great journey.

[mathewjgano]

Hi Mark,
It would be great to meet you if you can make it to Tsubaki America! Cool place to see at the least, if you have the time.
Happy journeys!
Matt

[Mark Freeman]

if you happen to be near my way, please give me a ping. i don't operate at Ikeda level, but i can operate at Phi's level which usually beats out Ikeda's level in term of foods and drinks and company. :)

Hi Phi, (that always sounds so good)

Phi's level is good enough for me, I love food, drink and company with a well developed sense of humour. Watch out for that ping!

regards,

Mark

[Mark Freeman]

Mark,
in the Bay area, if you get down there, I have found great training and hospitality at Kayla Feder's dojo in Berkeley and Linda Holiday's in Santa Cruz. Both nice towns, too.

In SF, I strongly recommend you check out Robert Nadeau, if you have not seen him before. His stuff and personality dont agree with everybody, but he is definitely impressive in his way.

Have a great journey.

Hi Nicholas,

thanks for the recommendation, duly noted. I have stayed in Santa Cruz before, a lovely place.

regards,

Mark

[Mark Freeman]

Hi Mark,
It would be great to meet you if you can make it to Tsubaki America! Cool place to see at the least, if you have the time.
Happy journeys!
Matt

Hi Matt,

Renton is not that far from where I am setting off from. I'm sure I can see you, when I head south.
I'll be in touch around the end of June.

regards,

Mark

[mathewjgano]

Hi Matt,

Renton is not that far from where I am setting off from. I'm sure I can see you, when I head south.
I'll be in touch around the end of June.

regards,

Mark

Hi Mark,
I live in Renton, but the dojo (http://www.tsubakishrine.org/)is in Granite Falls, which is about an hour north-east of Seattle; 30 min. east of Everett.
Take care,
Matt

[Mark Freeman]

Hi Mark,
I live in Renton, but the dojo (http://www.tsubakishrine.org/)is in Granite Falls, which is about an hour north-east of Seattle; 30 min. east of Everett.
Take care,
Matt

Hi Matt,

I know where Granite Falls is, it is exactly where I bought the VW from ( ah.. the wonders of ebay:).

Hope to see you soon,

regards,

Mark

[Gary David]

Anyway, I am really looking forward to meeting many people on this little jaunt, so look out for an older Englishman in an old German bus, looking for new experiences. He maybe coming your way very soon.:)

regards,

Mark

Mark
As mentioned before...when you are in Southern California let me know...We can train together and I have some interesting friends you might have fun with.

By the way Dan will be here at Orange County Aiki Kai August 4th & 5th......

\Keep in touch.

Gary

[mathewjgano]

Hi Matt,

I know where Granite Falls is, it is exactly where I bought the VW from ( ah.. the wonders of ebay:).

Hope to see you soon,

regards,

Mark
Hi Mark,
LOL! That's awesome! Would be a short drive then. :D
Hope to see you soon too!
All my best,
Matt

[hughrbeyer]

You'd be welcome at Shobu Aikido of Boston.

[Janet Rosen]

I'm in the little town of Ukiah, two hours north of San Francisco, and train at a very small dojo here which traces its original lineage to Tohei Sensei. If you are heading southward on 101 rather than 5, I would certainly be happy to have to stop here (our guest room is generally free if you need overnight lodging) or to connect with you at one of several dojos in Santa Rosa area, which is an hour south of here/an hour north of SF.
In SF I recommend Suginami Aikikai, affiliated w/ Hiroshi Kato Shihan.
I agree w/ recommendation of Kayla Feder's dojo in Berkeley.
If you happen to be using 5 instead of 101, I recommend in Sacramento Two Rivers Budo, run by Geoff Yudien and Adam Fong.

[Janet Rosen]

OH! In far northern California don't neglect Arcata's Northcoast Aikido http://www.northcoastaikido.org/
Tom Read is a very solid aikidoka and its a great dojo.

[Graham Farquhar]

Mark very jealous of what you are doing my ki fed buddy! My work takes me to US, and I have trained in a few dojos. I always email ahead and have always had a great reception from evert dojo, I was lucky enough to hit Seattle when Dan was there last year and that left a big impression as you can guess! One of my friends recently did 7 to 8 dojos in the bay area over 10days and came back bouncing and he originated from the same source as us! Keep a blog of your training so us guys back here can enjoy your trip with you!

Safe travels!

Graham

[Rob Watson]

While in the SF bay area come on by Aikido of San Leandro (http://www.aikido-sanleandro.com/) (right off the 580 freeway). We welcome everyone and recognize rank no matter the source. Morning class is the real gem.

If you time it right I may have a vacant house you can shack up in while you are visiting.

[Steven]

I I recommend in Sacramento...

... and if you're not too afraid of getting corrupted, you're welcome to visit us as well.
www.seikeikan.com. Just give a call! :D

[Mark Freeman]

Mark
As mentioned before...when you are in Southern California let me know...We can train together and I have some interesting friends you might have fun with.

By the way Dan will be here at Orange County Aiki Kai August 4th & 5th......

\Keep in touch.

Gary

Hi Gary,

I may well see you at Dan's seminar, I have that on my radar.

I'll be in touch,

regards,

Mark

[Mark Freeman]

You'd be welcome at Shobu Aikido of Boston.

Hi Hugh,

thanks, I hope I can make it all the way up to the NE from the far SW.

regards

Mark

[Mark Freeman]

I'm in the little town of Ukiah, two hours north of San Francisco, and train at a very small dojo here which traces its original lineage to Tohei Sensei. If you are heading southward on 101 rather than 5, I would certainly be happy to have to stop here (our guest room is generally free if you need overnight lodging) or to connect with you at one of several dojos in Santa Rosa area, which is an hour south of here/an hour north of SF.
In SF I recommend Suginami Aikikai, affiliated w/ Hiroshi Kato Shihan.
I agree w/ recommendation of Kayla Feder's dojo in Berkeley.
If you happen to be using 5 instead of 101, I recommend in Sacramento Two Rivers Budo, run by Geoff Yudien and Adam Fong.

Hi Janet,

I'll be in touch when I am heading south, I'll be on 101 (a much nicer road), so expect a call.

Thanks for the recommendations, I'll be spoilt for choice, so many are coming in. It seems that aikido found a natural home in california:)

see you in the not too distant,

Mark

[Mark Freeman]

Mark very jealous of what you are doing my ki fed buddy! My work takes me to US, and I have trained in a few dojos. I always email ahead and have always had a great reception from evert dojo, I was lucky enough to hit Seattle when Dan was there last year and that left a big impression as you can guess! One of my friends recently did 7 to 8 dojos in the bay area over 10days and came back bouncing and he originated from the same source as us! Keep a blog of your training so us guys back here can enjoy your trip with you!

Safe travels!

Graham

Hi Graham,

thanks for that, I hope to set up a blog, so watch this space:)

regards,

Mark

[Mark Freeman]

While in the SF bay area come on by Aikido of San Leandro (http://www.aikido-sanleandro.com/) (right off the 580 freeway). We welcome everyone and recognize rank no matter the source. Morning class is the real gem.

If you time it right I may have a vacant house you can shack up in while you are visiting.

Hi Robert,

I'll be in touch, and thank you for your kind offer. I'll be pretty self sufficient in my van, but a night or two under a proper roof is always welcome. I like the idea of a morning class (in India the class was held at 6.30am, I can't imagine yours will be earlier?)

regards,

Mark

[Mark Freeman]

... and if you're not too afraid of getting corrupted, you're welcome to visit us as well.
www.seikeikan.com. Just give a call! :D

Hi Steven,

I'm always up for a bit of corruption, ;)

maybe soon,

regards

Mark

[PhillyKiAikido]

Freeman Sensei,

If you're still interested in Tohei style, there are some Ki Society teachers on both coasts I'd like to recommend. They're in North/South California and North/South Carolina. Of course if you're near Philadelphia, our door is wide open to you. We used to have some visitors from Europe training with us when they were on business trips here.

Best!

Ting

[Malicat]

Hi Mark!

We would love to have you visit either our dojo in Flat Rock, NC, or in Greenville, SC which is about 45 minutes away. But if you are short on time, I would happily come with you to harass Phi in Charlotte, NC.

--Ashley

[Mark Freeman]

Freeman Sensei,

If you're still interested in Tohei style, there are some Ki Society teachers on both coasts I'd like to recommend. They're in North/South California and North/South Carolina. Of course if you're near Philadelphia, our door is wide open to you. We used to have some visitors from Europe training with us when they were on business trips here.

Best!

Ting

Hi Ting,

thanks for that, I intend to visit some Ki Society dojos, I haven't been to any yet. My own teacher, Sensei Williams, broke away from the KS and formed his own federation, before I joined. I do however, know that I would find much familiarity in the practice. I look forward to the experience and hope I get to practice in your dojo.

regards,

Mark

[Mark Freeman]

Hi Mark!

We would love to have you visit either our dojo in Flat Rock, NC, or in Greenville, SC which is about 45 minutes away. But if you are short on time, I would happily come with you to harass Phi in Charlotte, NC.

--Ashley

Hi Ashley,

if you come to see me when I am with Phi, you'll probably find us eating doughnuts and drinking coffee:). Hopefully we will take a break, to do some practice.:D

regards,

Mark

[lbb]

If you do make it to the northeast, you'd be welcome at Green River Aikido in Greenfield, MA. On the big map we look like we're right next door to Mary E. and Ron's place; in fact it's probably a couple hours' drive away at least. As we say in New England, you can't get there from here :-)

From Greenfield to the Boston area is another couple of hours' drive.

[Janet Rosen]

Hi Mark!

We would love to have you visit either our dojo in Flat Rock, NC, or in Greenville, SC which is about 45 minutes away. But if you are short on time, I would happily come with you to harass Phi in Charlotte, NC.

--Ashley

I better get some kimchee ready to mail out.... :D

[Malicat]

Hi Ashley,

if you come to see me when I am with Phi, you'll probably find us eating doughnuts and drinking coffee:). Hopefully we will take a break, to do some practice.:D

regards,

Mark

Donuts and coffee before practice, and then beer afterwards? :)

[Rob Watson]

Hi Robert,

I'll be in touch, and thank you for your kind offer. I'll be pretty self sufficient in my van, but a night or two under a proper roof is always welcome. I like the idea of a morning class (in India the class was held at 6.30am, I can't imagine yours will be earlier?)

regards,

Mark

Roof and plenty of hot water can be a welcome respite after too many days on the road.

Morning class is MTThF at 6:30am Evening classes (M-F) start at 6:30pm. . Saturday class is 10-11:30 and is all weapons. Unless she is out of town sensei will be teaching every class.

[Young-In Park]

although it isn't aikido, this is a seminar you shouldn't miss. if you can't make the seminar, you should contact John Lovato or Rich Elias to arrange a visit to their dojo in Lakewood (near Long Beach).

Seminar: TSYR Seminar in Santa Ana, California with Toby Threadgill
Dates: Saturday, July 21st - Sunday, July 22nd

Location: Senpokan Dojo
Where: Santa Ana, CA (in Orange County near Disneyland)
Contact: John Lovato / kenshinyokan@ca.rr.com or Rich Elias / shidare@hotmail.com

[Mark Freeman]

although it isn't aikido, this is a seminar you shouldn't miss. if you can't make the seminar, you should contact John Lovato or Rich Elias to arrange a visit to their dojo in Lakewood (near Long Beach).

Seminar: TSYR Seminar in Santa Ana, California with Toby Threadgill
Dates: Saturday, July 21st - Sunday, July 22nd

Location: Senpokan Dojo
Where: Santa Ana, CA (in Orange County near Disneyland)
Contact: John Lovato / kenshinyokan@ca.rr.com or Rich Elias / shidare@hotmail.com

Hi Y-I P,

thanks for bringing this to my attention, I was really hoping to get to experience Toby Threadgill, on this trip. This may be my best option.

Maybe see you there,

regards,

Mark

[sakumeikan]

Hi Tarik,

thanks, keep your eyes open for a white VW bus:)

regards,

Mark

Dear Mark,
Try Shibata Sensei in Berkeley.Check out Birankai North America.You will get a list of dojos which might be useful to you. Nice classes inn Ventura, Burbank etc. If you get as far as San Diego check out San Diego Aikikai .Also Murashige Sensei , hes in San Diego. Have a good time, Cheers, Joe.

[Gerardo Torres]

Dear Mark,
Try Shibata Sensei in Berkeley.Check out Birankai North America.You will get a list of dojos which might be useful to you. Nice classes inn Ventura, Burbank etc. If you get as far as San Diego check out San Diego Aikikai .Also Murashige Sensei , hes in San Diego. Have a good time, Cheers, Joe.
Hi,

I'm not sure what Mark's affiliation is, but Berkeley Aikikai has the following writing on their webpage (I've never been there so I don't know if/how they implement this policy):

Visitor Policy: Visitors are always welcome to observe. Those who have affiliation with Hombu Dojo are welcome to train as visitors. Yudansha should bring their Aikikai yudansha book. Kyu grades should bring some document that shows their affiliation, or a letter from their instructor.

http://www.berkeleyaikikai.org/index.html

BR,
Gerardo

[Chris Li]

Hi,

I'm not sure what Mark's affiliation is, but Berkeley Aikikai has the following writing on their webpage (I've never been there so I don't know if/how they implement this policy):

http://www.berkeleyaikikai.org/index.html

BR,
Gerardo

Interestingly, a friend of mine with an Aikikai yudansha book was told that it "would not be appropriate" for them to train there when they stopped by to visit.

Best,

Chris

[Janet Rosen]

In Berkeley you will be warmly welcomed and have a wonderful time at Kayla Feder's Aikido of Berkeley regardless of your affiliation/background.

[Alex Megann]

Dear Mark,
Try Shibata Sensei in Berkeley.Check out Birankai North America.You will get a list of dojos which might be useful to you. Nice classes inn Ventura, Burbank etc. If you get as far as San Diego check out San Diego Aikikai .Also Murashige Sensei , hes in San Diego. Have a good time, Cheers, Joe.

Hi Joe,

I just checked the Berkeley Aikikai and then UnEnKai - it seems Marianne Shibata is running things in Berkeley, with no mention of Ichiro Shibata Sensei. Is he retired from teaching now?

Alex

[sakumeikan]

Hi Joe,

I just checked the Berkeley Aikikai and then UnEnKai - it seems Marianne Shibata is running things in Berkeley, with no mention of Ichiro Shibata Sensei. Is he retired from teaching now?

Alex

Hi Alex,
Havent heard much about Shibata Sensei.Hope he is ok.I always liked his aikido and he is a good guy.Spent a few happy times with him.I will try and dig around and get some gen.Hope you are well. Cheers, Joe

[Phil Van Treese]

If you get to the Tampa Bay Area in Florida, stop by our Tomiki dojo and we'll trade knowledge. Shindai Dojo in Orlando, Fl is another great dojo with Dennis Hooker Sensei and Steve Fasen Sensei--both are top notch aikidoka. My cell is 813-892-5317 in case you come here and feel like training/sharing.

[Rob Watson]

Hi Joe,

I just checked the Berkeley Aikikai and then UnEnKai - it seems Marianne Shibata is running things in Berkeley, with no mention of Ichiro Shibata Sensei. Is he retired from teaching now?

Alex

I stopped by in April and Shibata Ichiro sensei was teaching the luch time class.

[Alex Megann]

I stopped by in April and Shibata Ichiro sensei was teaching the luch time class.

That's good news. I enjoyed the classes I went to with him in the UK in the early eighties - he could be fearsome, but had a generous heart.

Alex

[Mark Freeman]

Well I finally got round to posting a blog entry, which covers the first couple of weeks of my trip.

I'm not computer savvy enough to post a link to the actual blog (help). But you can find it easy enough.

I'm really starting to settle into life on the road. And the rate I'm travelling, I may not get much further than the West and South of the country. Which is fine, but I may miss some of the folk I wanted to see in the East. I may just have to come back over here again:)

regards,

Mark

[Rob Watson]

http://www.aikiweb.com/blogs/mark-freemans-blog-7004/blog-1-west-coast-usa-4558/

[Mark Freeman]

http://www.aikiweb.com/blogs/mark-freemans-blog-7004/blog-1-west-coast-usa-4558/

Thanks Robert, appreciated:)

[Janet Rosen]

Our wandering Brit is now in California.
We had some time together - he joined me for a day at Wellspring Aikido in Santa Rosa for a one day Wendy Palmer Sensei seminar, and the next day we did a little "compare and contrast" playing together.
Mark and I share a lineage (at least in terms of my current dojo) via Tohei Sensei and each of us has had a little intro to IS stuff to play with a bit. We are clearly working on the same principles and it was funny to see where the outward forms in terms of footwork or positioning differed w/o the underlying "stuff" being changed.
He is quite the "aikido embassador" in that he is both a fun and generous training partner and a delightful houseguest. If he's headed your way, grab him!

[Mary Eastland]

Nice...I hope he makes it to New England. (Hint, hint!) :)

[Mark Freeman]

Our wandering Brit is now in California.
We had some time together - he joined me for a day at Wellspring Aikido in Santa Rosa for a one day Wendy Palmer Sensei seminar, and the next day we did a little "compare and contrast" playing together.
Mark and I share a lineage (at least in terms of my current dojo) via Tohei Sensei and each of us has had a little intro to IS stuff to play with a bit. We are clearly working on the same principles and it was funny to see where the outward forms in terms of footwork or positioning differed w/o the underlying "stuff" being changed.
He is quite the "aikido embassador" in that he is both a fun and generous training partner and a delightful houseguest. If he's headed your way, grab him!

Hi Janet,

thanks for that, I had a really good time, you and Stu are excellent hosts, I appreciate your hospitality. I particularly liked the contrast of both of your NY humour in the middle of small town west coast, a cheeky cocktail, to delight the weary traveller:)

I made it down to Fairfax and had a good practice, I'm now on my way to Two Rock for my 8th practice in 9 days. I'll need a few days downtime with my old friend when I get to Modesto.

cheers,

Mark

[Mark Freeman]

Nice...I hope he makes it to New England. (Hint, hint!) :)

Hi Mary,

at the rate that I am travelling, I will be luck to get much beyond California! I keep getting waylaid, my course has been very zig zag, over the costal mountains and back again a few times. Also, every dojo I practice in gives me more recommendations of people to see.

It's all good though, if I don't make it to the east coast this time, I'll just have to come over again.

I'll try and get the second installment of my blog finished and posted shortly.

regards,

Mark

[Mary Eastland]

Thanks Mark...it sounds like fun.

[phitruong]

at the rate that I am travelling, I will be luck to get much beyond California! I keep getting waylaid, my course has been very zig zag, over the costal mountains and back again a few times. Also, every dojo I practice in gives me more recommendations of people to see.

It's all good though, if I don't make it to the east coast this time, I'll just have to come over again.

Mark

maybe you should do a reality tv show that features you travel the US, and possibly the world and visiting various dojo (is plural of dojo dojos or doja or doji?). i can be your travelling sidekick. :)

[Janet Rosen]

maybe you should do a reality tv show that features you travel the US, and possibly the world and visiting various dojo (is plural of dojo dojos or doja or doji?). i can be your travelling sidekick. :)

Oh, BTW, Phi....he enjoyed the homemade kimchi...and we of course talked about you during the meal :D

[phitruong]

Oh, BTW, Phi....he enjoyed the homemade kimchi...and we of course talked about you during the meal :D

that's just so wrong. why didn't you send me some kimchi and we could have a conference phone and a virtual party? :)

[Janet Rosen]

that's just so wrong. why didn't you send me some kimchi and we could have a conference phone and a virtual party? :)

You could PM me your mailing address but the post office these days always asks if anything in the package is potentially explosive :)

[Mark Freeman]

For anyone who is interested, I have made another blog entry.

http://www.aikiweb.com/blogs/mark-freemans-blog-7004/blog-2-heading-south-on-the-north-coast-4572/

I am typically behind with my blog, as I am now in Modesto, spending some time with a very old friend of mine. One more entry should, bring me up to date. I will be heading back into the Bay area, before turning south in a few days time.:cool:

[Graham Farquhar]

For anyone who is interested, I have made another blog entry.

http://www.aikiweb.com/blogs/mark-freemans-blog-7004/blog-2-heading-south-on-the-north-coast-4572/

I am typically behind with my blog, as I am now in Modesto, spending some time with a very old friend of mine. One more entry should, bring me up to date. I will be heading back into the Bay area, before turning south in a few days time.:cool:

Hi Mark - Excellent Blog and really enjoying reading about your travels. I think you will have a great time in the Bay area too!

Here is a useful link for you to "translate" the different attacks from Ki Fed terminology into the japanese terminology. May be useful for your own practise during your travels.

http://www.stenudd.com/aikido/aikido-attacks.htm

Safe Journey and we must meet up in Mark.

G

[lbb]

Mark, if you have a smartphone, you may want to set up a Blogger account and get a Blogger client app for your phone. I have found that it makes it much easier for me to do frequent journaling, since I don't have to wait until I'm able to sit down at a keyboard.

[Mark Freeman]

Blog #3 for those who are interested:

http://www.aikiweb.com/blogs/mark-freemans-blog-7004/blog-3-from-the-coast-to-the-valley-4575/

[Mark Freeman]

Mark, if you have a smartphone, you may want to set up a Blogger account and get a Blogger client app for your phone. I have found that it makes it much easier for me to do frequent journaling, since I don't have to wait until I'm able to sit down at a keyboard.

Hi Mary,

I don't have a smartphone I'm afraid, so I will just get by with the erratic wi-fi internet connections, that I encounter on the way.

regards,

Mark

[Mark Freeman]

Blog #4 posted for those who are interested.

http://www.aikiweb.com/blogs/mark-freemans-blog-7004/blog-4-bouncing-around-the-bay-4576/

cheers,

Mark

[Mark Freeman]

Blog # 6

http://www.aikiweb.com/blogs/mark-freemans-blog-7004/blog-6-la-and-points-beyond-4588/

cheers,

Mark

[MM]

Blog # 6

http://www.aikiweb.com/blogs/mark-freemans-blog-7004/blog-6-la-and-points-beyond-4588/

cheers,

Mark

You wrote:


I am left pondering the dilemma, "to waza or not to waza?" that is the question.


And isn't that a loaded question. :D Was hoping you'd make it over this way on your trip, but perhaps next time, we can have a long conversation about waza. I'm glad to read that you're having a great time out there.

Mark

[Mark Freeman]

And isn't that a loaded question. :D Was hoping you'd make it over this way on your trip, but perhaps next time, we can have a long conversation about waza. I'm glad to read that you're having a great time out there.

Mark

Hi Mark,

I was hoping that I was going to make it over that way too. However, I'd forgotten quite how large this country is, and quite how slow, old VW's go!

The question may be loaded and in my mind is still hanging. I am in no rush to answer it.

maybe next time, by then I should know the answer.

regards,

Mark

[Gary David]

Folks a couple of pictures of Mark talking with folks in Seal Beach before we went down on the beach next to the pier to work with Dan. About 6:30pm......... pictures will show up in the Aikido People set once they have been approved.....

Gary

[Mark Freeman]

For those who are following my blog, here is my next installment:

http://www.aikiweb.com/blogs/mark-freemans-blog-7004/blog-7-9-days-in-the-la-lab-4602/

thanks to all those who are reading and commenting,

cheers,

Mark

[Mark Freeman]

Hi folks,

the final installment on my USA adventure, for those who are interested

http://www.aikiweb.com/blogs/mark-freemans-blog-7004/blog-8-and-finally-4609/

[phitruong]

you should have hang out on the East Coast. we are more colourful and interesting bunch than the airy West Coasters. :)

[Janet Rosen]

you should have hang out on the East Coast. we are more colourful and interesting bunch than the airy West Coasters. :)

C'mere and say that.... :D

[lbb]

Like I said...ya never got off the left coast!!! How can you call that your American adventure? Sheesh...

Phi is right, of course. Next time start on the east coast.

[Mark Freeman]

you should have hang out on the East Coast. we are more colourful and interesting bunch than the airy West Coasters. :)

You may well be right Phi, but I definitely don't want to get in the way of that particular argument!:)

[Mark Freeman]

Like I said...ya never got off the left coast!!! How can you call that your American adventure? Sheesh...

Phi is right, of course. Next time start on the east coast.

True Mary, I should have referred to it as my West Coast adventure (the adventure part was accurate though). I still want to do the same on the right (?) side of the country...watch this space.