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Venice Aikido Club

Schedule:

The Aikido Club practices in the gym on Monday and Thursday evenings from 5:30 to 7:15 pm, and on Saturday morning from 7 to 9 am.

If you think you might be interested, please drop by and observe a class.  Previous martial arts experience is not required-- we welcome new members, and are happy to answer any questions you may have.

If you have any questions, contact Michael at mjg@photosbyMJG.com or visit www.VeniceAikidoClub.org for more detailed information.

History:

On April 26, 1977, "the way of harmonizing with the energy of the universe," became a part of the VJCC with the formation of the Venice Aikido Club. The goal of Aikido training is to practice the philosophy and high spiritual values that Morihei Uyeshiba (O-Sensei), founder of Aikido, has passed down, and integrate them into ones life for the benefit of the community and society. In addition to regular Aikido training, the club participates in seminar sponsorship and supports many VJCC activities.

Tad Suzuki originally sponsored the club's formation.  Dale Ito, Hideo Noguchi, and Alan Matsuzaki were the founding VJCC supporters. M. James Shibata, Lucy Ito, and Don O'Bell were among the founding members.

M. James Shibata

M. James Shibata, now 7th dan Aikido SeiShin Kai USA, has been the club's Chief Instructor since its inception and has been studying Aikido for more than 35 years.  He is also President of Aikido SeiShin Kai USA, a federation affiliated with Aikido World Headquarters, Tokyo, Japan.  In addition, he has earned a 6th dan in Aiki Toho Iai and 6th dan in Sosho Ryu Iai.

While the Venice Aikido Club is an independent organization, it has always maintained an affiliation with significant organizations for mentorship and rank registration. Originally a member of the Aikido Institute of America, the club was affiliated with the Ki Society (Ki No Kenkyukai in Japan). When the Aikido Institute of America later became part of the independent organization, Seidokan, the club affiliated with Seidokan. In 1986, the club joined the Shoji Nishio organization andbecame a founding member of Aikido Sei Shin Kai,

USA, which is affiliated with Aikido World Headquarters (Aikikai Foundation) in Japan. The Venice Aikido Club hosted the second International Nishio Aikido and Aikido Toho (Iaido) Seminar in September 1995.

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Mission Statement
To preserve, share and promote the Japanese and Japanese-American culture and heritage, and provide for the needs and interests of the Japanese-American community through education and instruction.
©2006 Venice Japanese Community Center
All rights reserved.
12448 Braddock Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90066
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