OKK Taiko recently performed at the Okinawa Kenjin Black Belt Academy campout. It was a great experience for all as the Black
Belt Academy members also took time to teach us some self defence moves and breathing techniques. The Black Belt Academy is a wonderful group and we hope to strengthen our ties with them in the future.
First, doomo arigatoo gozashimashita, kansha shimasu for spending time with all of us at the camp-
out. What a great time! Your O.K.K. Taiko Group was absolutely wonderful! The brightly colored
traditional Okinawan clothing, singing and dancing was inspiring. Something pleasing to me is the
fact that many of us came to share, yet we were also given the chance to learn, and to experience
the great synergy.and wow, what synergy!
This was our third year putting on the camp-out. I'm hoping to continue this event each year,
offering the opportunity for people to gather and exchange thoughts, ideas, insights,
philosophies, music, dance, bruises (lol), food, fun, etc! I really wanted people to meet and get
to know each other a little better. beyond the martial arts. I wanted us to share a bit of
ourselves through our arts: martial, music, poetry, etc.
Secondly, please accept my deep, heart felt thanks and appreciation for your assistance and your
participation in last weekend's events. Your personal contributions directly contributed to a
successful gathering. The theme for this years camp-out was "Open minds and open hearts". It was
intended to be in the spirit of traditional Okinawan Festivals, to gather, share and celebrate. I
think we lived it, and OKK Taiko played an important role by being present. Personally, I think
that the result was better than anyone expected!
I look forward to becoming better friends Mia-san. Although I don't know you very well, I know
enough to realize that you're an exceptional individual. Thanks as well for all that you do for
your club. We always benefit from the input of our teachers, and I now consider you one of my
teachers/senseis. I'm ready to learn. Mia-san, you and OKK Taiko are always welcome as guests at
our school. I look forward to seeing you in the near future, and discussing future "possibilities".
Lastly, if I could impose on you to put together a few words describing your personal experiences
this weekend, it would be greatly appreciated. I'd like to use it in my next newsletter and for
next years "testimonies". Your words of wisdom would be greatly appreciated Mia-san. Doomo
arigatoo gozashimashita.
Sincerely,
Guy Shinkaruk
OKBBA President
