Shuri Ryu fifth dan Charlotte Bryant and myself just returned from the 2026 ECUSKF Cincinnati Jodo Seminar, which was hosted by the Kosho School of Karate and Seitei Jodo fifth-degree black belt Nate England. Just under 50 students and teachers attended the seminar, including the United States’ most senior instructor, seventh dan renshi Thomas Groendal of Portland, Ore. The training, which began Friday morning and concluded Sunday afternoon, was nothing short of incredible. Everyone was welcoming and willing to share their knowledge. Saturday’s training concluded with testing, which included both Bryant and myself earning the rank of ikkyu. There were also successful examinations for shodan and sandan. And just a reminder for those in the area of our dojo in Lexington, second-degree black belt Andy Wells will conduct his next installment of his twice-a-month Seitei Jodo classes Monday, Oct. 5, beginning at 7 p.m. at the Midlands School of Martial Arts. Cost is $20 per month for two classes. Hope to see you. If you have questions, you can contact us via the email (kashikanjodo@gmail.com) on our website or call our number (910-382-1943).
