Chicago Aikikai held its last seminar at 1444 West Chicago Avenue, its home since 2009 and the last one designed and built by Kevin Choate (1954-2012) who served as chief instructor and dojo-cho from 1981 until his passing. Instruction was led by Tres Hofmeister Shihan (7th dan, Boulder Aikikai), a longtime friend and guest instructor for many years.
Everyone enjoyed a great weekend of training. Although the dojo was already partially dismantled, the atmosphere was enthusiastic. Many regular members and guests actually commented the minimized dojo look was oddly refreshing and relaxing (Though everyone did miss the elaborate designs and calligraphy – already in storage).
Saturday night dinner was again catered by Torino Ramen, bringing in a variety of Japanese bento lunch boxes as they had for our last two seminars. There was a great opportunity to rest up after the vigorous training (and recent rise in local Chicago temperatures), chat and reminisce.
On the last day after class, Chicago Aikikai members and guests worked together to remove and stage the mats for later transport, and dismantle the wood frame for the mats. The wood pieces were then taken to a rental storage facility where they will be kept for the time being.
Chicago Aikikai will soon be making an official announcement on its new temporary location and plans to secure a long-term space. In the meantime, check out this video remembrance and farewell of its home at 1444 West Chicago Avenue.