Bainbridge Island Shotokan Karate Dojo
September 1995

Dear Friends,

On behalf of all Seattle area and Bainbridge Island Dojo members, I want to extend my warmest welcome to our 20th Anniversary Celebration. When we started the Bainbridge Island Dojo, we had only one model upon which to build our dojo vision: that model was provided by Ohshima Sensei. Sensei's model was simply to create an atmosphere where people could express and improve themselves through hard practice. As I look back on the past 20 years, the most striking element I recall is the support we have received from Ohshima Sensei as well as from members from many regions including Canada, Idaho, Oregon and California. In particular, Canada Shotokan, under the leadership of Norman Welch, and seniors such as Tom Muzila, have given us technical help and constant inspiration to make our vision a reality.

This celebration is not only for those who trace their roots to Bainbridge Island Dojo but is an opportunity for members in the Seattle area to thank all of those who have supported us through the years. To all of our friends, thank you very much for coming and I sincerely hope that you enjoy our celebration.

Best wishes,

Ronald M. Thom