Following in the footsteps of the Tsuruoka Karate founder, the Tsuruoka NL family started a tradition last year that is somewhat similar to Kagami biraki ( traditional ceremony which literally translates to “Opening the Mirror”).  However, following his own Chinese heritage, Sempai Au has also equated it to the Chinese New Year.  It is a celebration for all the students and families to come together to enjoy great food, and even greater company.

Again this year, Sempai, and his wife Cindy spent tireless hours over the weekend preparing food for approximately 90 people, and as I am sure everyone will agree, it was a huge success yet again.  A special thank you to Randy Carew for your assistance Saturday evening, as the additional set of hands helped ease the workload.  Everyone gathered at the dojo on Sunday evening for a great meal, to which no one walked away hungry.  To everyone that showed up, and assisted in anyway, a big thank you!  We hope to continue the tradition every year.

After the meal, Sempai announced that two students traveled to Toronto this past fall for grading, and he was pleased to announce the results.  Congrats to Bernie Noseworthy on your achievement of 4th dan, and to Alex Lawlor, on his achievement of dan (black belt).  The entire Tsuruoka NL Family is proud of your hard work and dedication to the club, and the sport!

Alex Lawlor (dan) and Bernie Noseworthy (4th dan)!