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PREVIOUS UPDATES

                                         

                                               FALL 2021 SESSION TESTING



Students considered ready for testing will be informed on Thursday 2 December; test eligibility is shown here (bottom of page). Testing will be held on Tuesday 14 December during regular class times.  Presentation of test results (belts and stripes) will take place on Thursday 16 December, also during regular class times (see the calendar for more details).  Spectators are welcome to attend both events; the Dojo COVID-19 protocols apply.

In light of the shorter than usual fall session due to the late start, the test subjects for the new students (children with white belt no stripes) will be as follows:

 

  • 5:15 pm class: demonstrate stances, punches, blocks and kicks.

  • 6:00 pm class: demonstrate stances, punches, blocks, kicks, strikes and Kata dai ichi.

​​

Test subjects for students with stripes/colored belts will be discussed individually.

UPDATE – SATURDAY 23 OCTOBER 2021

 

COVID-19 PROTOCOLS

 

In keeping with the latest BC Provincial and Interior Health COVID-19 orders and in the best interest of our extended Dojo family, effective Tuesday 26 October, all persons (students, instructors and spectators) must meet the following requirements to enter the Dojo:

 

  • MASKS:  All persons 5 years old and up must wear a mask.

​

  • VACCINATION:  All persons 12 years old and up must be fully vaccinated; ​ a person is considered fully vaccinated 2 weeks after their second dose in a 2-dose series, or 2 weeks after a single-dose vaccine.  The BC vaccine card (paper or digital copy) must be presented.  The card for fully vaccinated persons is green.  The card only needs to be presented once; the vaccination status is recorded in our Dojo attendance list.

 

       For students and instructors who have already presented their vaccination cards during the week of 18-22 October:  no need to         present your card again.  Your vaccination status has already been recorded.

 

​The COVID-19 protocols are in place until 31 Jan 2022, subject to possible extension.  The Dojo COVID-19 Safety Plan can be viewed here; a paper copy is also available at the Dojo.

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DOJO ACCESS

​

To minimize congestion during class transition, Dojo access is as follows:

​

  • ENTRANCE: All classes enter the Dojo using the lower level door facing the parking lot (the regular entrance).

​

  • EXIT: All classes exit the Dojo using the lower level door (next to the fridge) facing the covered BBQ area.  

​​

Signs are posted.  Do not arrive at the Dojo more than 10 minutes before your class time.  

​

UPDATE – WEDNESDAY 6 OCTOBER 2021

 

DOJO RE-OPENING

 

The fall session classes starts on Tuesday 19 October.  All classes are full; contact us if you wish to be added to the waiting list.  See the calendar for class times and session activities.

 

COVID-19 VACCINATION

 

By order of the BC Provincial Health Officer, COVID-19 vaccination requirements for high intensity indoor exercise (which includes martial arts) are as follows:

 

  • Instructors and students: 

    • Under 12 years old: not required.

    • 12 years old and over: required.  People are considered fully vaccinated 2 weeks after their second dose in a 2-dose series, or 2 weeks after a single-dose vaccine.  The BC vaccine card (paper or digital copy) must be presented at the beginning of the first class.  The card for fully vaccinated people is green.  Students without a card will not be able to join the class.

 

  • Spectators (any age): not required.  However, the total number of people in the Dojo must be less than 50.

 

For contact tracing purposes, student attendance will be taken and spectator names will be recorded at each class.  The vaccination requirement is in place until 31 Jan 2022, subject to possible extension.

​

The situation will be reassessed after the first week of classes.  The health and safety of our students and their families being our top priority,  additional measures may be implemented if deemed necessary starting the week of 25 October.

​

MASK WEARING

 

Anyone entering the Dojo (students, instructors and spectators) ages 5 and above must wear a mask.

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FALL SESSION INVOICES

​

The invoices for student fees were distributed via e-mail on Tuesday 5 October.  Due to the delayed start of the session (19 October instead of 14 September as originally planned), the fall session students fees were reduced by 30%.  The payment due date is Tuesday 19 October.  Payment methods are described on the invoices.

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DISTRIBUTION OF FREE DOGIS (uniforms)

​

The free dogis will be distributed on Tuesday 19 October at the end of each class; invoice must be paid (as applicable) in order to receive the free dogi.  Students can wear loose clothing for the first class (such as sweat pants and a T-shirt).

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DOJO ACCESS

​

To minimize congestion and ensure the number of people in the Dojo at any one time stays under 50, Dojo access will be as follows:

​

  • 5:15 pm class (6-7 years old): enter and exit using the lower level door and use the lower level coat rack.

​

  • 6:00 pm class (8-12 years old): enter and exit using the upper level door and use the upper level coat rack.  Once the 5:15 pm class students have left the lower level, the 6:00 pm students will then move down to the lower level.

​

  • 7:15 pm class (teens 13+ and adults):  enter and exit using the lower level door and use the lower level coat rack.

                              WINTER 2022 SESSION GIFT CERTIFICATES

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Get a great deal for the winter session; the Cedar Heights Community Association Online Auction includes two karate gift certificates with starting bids of $10.00 and $20.00.  Bid closing date is 15 December.  Click here for the Online Auction website.

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                                         WINTER 2022 SESSION (4 January to 17 March)                                                                          REGISTRATION

NEW STUDENTS

New students can register online now for the winter 2022 session (click here for more information about the registration process for new students) or contact us if you have questions.  The winter 2022 session will start on Tuesday 4 January.

CURRENT STUDENTS - IMPORTANT 


Students currently attending the fall 2021 session do not need to register again for the winter 2022 session.  All fall session students are asked to let us know no later than Thursday 16 December if they will attend or not the winter 2022 session; please send us this form.

                                    EARLY CHRISTMAS GIFTS - $4,355.

​

During our fall session reopening promotion, the Dojo provided gifts of dogis (uniforms) to 39 former/new students (valued at $1,630.) and granted session classes to 25 former students (valued  at $2,725.) at no cost to those students.

                              DELAYED START OF WINTER 2022 SESSION

​

Our winter session was scheduled to start on Tuesday 4 January.    New BC health restrictions came into effect on 20 and 22 December to help stop the spread of the highly transmissible Omicron variant.  Notwithstanding the restrictions, BC continues to report record-high daily COVID-19 case counts;  this growth in COVID-19 cases is expected to continue.  The health and safety of our students, instructors and our Dojo families are our top priorities in these uncertain times.   As such, the start of the winter session is delayed until Tuesday 18 January.   This will also allow more time for people to get their vaccination.   

                                                                              DOJO ACCESS

​

To minimize congestion during class transition, Dojo access is as follows:

​

  • ENTRANCE: All classes enter the Dojo using the lower level door facing the parking lot (the regular entrance).

​

  • EXIT: All classes exit the Dojo using the lower level door (next to the fridge) facing the covered BBQ area.  

​​

Signs are posted.  Do not arrive at the Dojo more than 10 minutes before your class time.  

     PLEASE NOTE

The Thursday 3 February regular classes and the Saturday 5 February class (Black Belt) have been cancelled.  Click here for more details.                                   

Fall Leaves

                                                                                               

 

                                                                                                  FALL 2021 SESSION

 

                                                           (19 October - 16 December)

​

​

  • MASKS:  All persons 5 years old and up must wear a mask.

​

  • VACCINATION:

    • All persons 12 years old and up: must be fully vaccinated (2 doses).​  The BC vaccine card (paper or digital copy) must be presented.  The card for fully vaccinated persons is green.  The card only needs to be presented once; the vaccination status is recorded in our Dojo attendance list.

    • All persons 5 to 11 years old:  not required (vaccine only available starting 29 November).

                                                                                               

 

                                                                                                   WINTER 2022 SESSION

 

                                                                  (18 January - 17 March)

​

​

 

  • MASKS:  All persons 5 years old and up must wear a mask; the mask must cover the mouth and nose.  Three-layer masks are highly encouraged.  If you forget your mask, adult and children sized single use disposable masks are available at the Dojo.

​

  • VACCINATION:

    • All persons 12 years old and up: must be fully vaccinated (2 doses).​  The BC vaccine card (paper or digital copy) must be presented.  The card for fully vaccinated persons is green.  The card only needs to be presented once; the vaccination status is recorded in our Dojo attendance list.   If the card was presented during the fall 2021 session, there is no need to present the card again.

    • All persons 5 to 11 years old:  must be partially vaccinated (first dose).   The BC vaccine card (paper or digital copy) must be presented.  To join the winter session, the card must be presented on Tuesday 18 January.  The card for partially vaccinated persons is blue.  The card only needs to be presented once; the vaccination status is recorded in our Dojo attendance list.                    

                 

Snowy Night

We would like to hear what you think of our Dojo.  You can share your comments here.

                  CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR TWO NEW BLACK BELTS

​

Congratulations to George Landry and Haden Dowler who successfully tested for their Black Belts on Wednesday 26 January 2022; they earned the 1st Dan Black Belt in Shorei-Kai Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate.  Their Black Belt and certificate were presented by Vic Hargitt Shihan, 8th Dan Black Belt, President of the Shorei-Kan Canada Karate Association.  George Sensei and Haden Sensei have been members of the Shuswap Dojo since 2013 and key contributors to the success of the Dojo.  Many thanks and well done!

                                         
                                     SPRING 2022 SESSION TESTING


Testing will be held on Tuesday 14 June during regular class times.  Presentation of test results (belts and stripes) will take place on Thursday 16 June, also during regular class times.  Family members are welcome to attend both events.

For more details see the Dojo calendar or the 26 May e-mail.

FALL 2022 SESSION

(Tuesday 20 Sep - Thursday 15 Dec)
                                     

NEW STUDENTS

 

  • Now accepting new student registrations for the fall session.

            

​

  • An information meeting will be held at the Dojo on Thursday 8 September at 6:00 pm.   The purpose of the meeting is to meet the new students/parents, present how the Dojo operates, sign the release of liability form, size students for their uniforms and answer any questions.

 

  •  In the meantime, contact us if you have any questions.

​

RETURNING STUDENTS/INSTRUCTORS

​            

  • ​Current students/instructors (i.e. those who attended the spring 2022 session) and past students/instructors who want to rejoin, need to submit the Returning Student/Instructor Confirmation Form no later than Friday 2 September to guarantee your spot for the fall session.

​

  • Returning students needing a new dogi need to come to the 8 September information meeting to be sized for their new dogi (see above for more details about the information meeting).

FALL 2022 SESSION INFORMATION           

​​​

  • Thursday 8 Sep, 6:00 pm:  An information meeting for all new students will be held at the Dojo (lower level).  The purpose of the meeting is to meet the new students/parents, present how the Dojo operates, sign the release of liability form, size students for their uniforms (dogi), take a pictures of the students and answer any questions.  Returning students are welcome to attend if they wish.  However, returning students needing a new dogi, must come to the Dojo to be sized.

 

  •  Tuesday 20 Sep:  First day of classes.  In light of the increased number of students, we now need to use both entrances of the Cedar Heights Community Centre:

    • 5 - 6 years old class (6:00 pm):  use the upper level door to enter and exit the Dojo.​

    • 7 - 11 years old class (6:00 pm):  use the lower level door to enter and exit the Dojo.

    • Youths (12+)/adults class (7:15 pm): use the lower level door to enter and exit the Dojo.

​

  •  Thursday 15 Dec: last day of classes.  See the Dojo calendar for the session activities.

​

  • In the meantime, contact us if you have any questions.

       NEW CLASS STUCTURE FOR FALL 2022 SESSION


We received a larger than usual number of registration forms for children wishing to join our Dojo for the fall session; this resulted in a long waiting list for the 5-7 year old class.   In order to accommodate as many children and youths as possible, we have therefore changed our class structure for the fall 2022 session as follows (the class times remain the same):

                                        





 

   FORMER CLASS STRUCTURE

  • Children 5 - 7 years old

  • Children 8 - 12 years old

  • Teens (13+)/adults   

            CLASS TIMES

  • 6:00 pm to 6:30 pm

  • 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm

  • 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm 

      NEW CLASS STRUCTURE

  • Children 5 - 6 years old

  • Children 7 - 11 years old

  • Youths (12+)/adults   

FALL 2022 SESSION INFORMATION           

​​​​

  •  Tuesday 20 Sep:  First day of classes.  In light of the increased number of students, we now need to use both entrances of the Cedar Heights Community Centre:

    • 5 - 6 years old class (6:00 pm):  use the upper level door to enter and exit the Dojo.​

    • 7 - 11 years old class (6:00 pm):  use the lower level door to enter and exit the Dojo.

    • Youths (12+)/adults class (7:15 pm): use the lower level door to enter and exit the Dojo.

​

  •  Thursday 15 Dec: last day of classes.  See the Dojo calendar for the session activities.

​

  • In the meantime, contact us if you have any questions.

                           FALL 2022 SESSION MAKE-UP CLASSES           
​​​
Student testing takes place at the end of each session.  One of the testing criteria is that students must attend a minimum of 75% of the classes during the session.    The Dojo is experiencing a higher than normal level of absenteeism as the cold and flu season hits the region more severely than usual.  So far in the session, approximately 30% of the students are below the criteria, with most being close to meeting it.  To help students achieve the 75%, boost their overall attendance, improve their skills or simply get more training, we will be holding four make-up classes as follows:
 

  1. Sunday 27 Nov:  1:30 pm to 2:30 pm

   2. Sunday 27 Nov:  2:30 pm to 3:30 pm
   3. 
Sunday 4 Dec:     1:30 pm to 2:30 pm
​   4. 
Sunday  4 Dec:    2:30 pm to 3:30 pm

 

  • Classes are free.  Just show up.​

  • Enter using the lower level.

  • Those are combined classes for all age groups. 

  • Discuss your level of attendance and readiness for testing with your Black Belt instructor. 

​

The other testing criteria can be found here (bottom of page)

Videos and textbooks of karate subjects can be found on this page as well.

Rotary Club of Salmon Arm
Chili Taste Off


Saturday 3 December 11:00 am to 2:00 pm

The Rotary Club of Salmon Arm will be hosting its second annual Chili Taste Off on Saturday 3 December as part of the Downtown Salmon Arm Holiday Market.   Last year, the funds raised went to the BC Flood Relief.  We are grateful that this year the proceeds will go to our Shuswap Support to Ukrainians project.  As limited tickets are available, please send an e-mail ASAP to shuswapukrainians@gmail.com to reserve your ticket(s).  Payment instructions will then follow.

In order to plan for the
     Thursday 15 December end of year event
mentioned above, please let us know by FRIDAY 9 DECEMBER how many family members (including students) will be attending by sending this
 this short online form. 

                                         
                             FALL 2022 SESSION TESTING ACTIVITIES


- Tuesday 6 December:  Regular classes.  Students considered ready for testing will be informed by their instructors.
- Thursday 8 December:  Regular classes.  Final review of subjects.
- Tuesday 13 December: Testing (lower level).  Families are invited to attend.
                        - 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm:  5-6 years old class followed by the 7-11 years old class.
                        - 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm: youths (12+)/adults class.
- Thursday 15 December: end of year event for all age groups.  Families are invited to attend.
                        - 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm:  presentation of test results and demonstrations (lower level).
                        - 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm:  snacks and refreshments (upper level) for all students and their families.

                  FAMILIES ARE INVITED TO BRING FINGER FOODS (appetizer or dessert) TO SERVE 6 to 8 PEOPLE.
                                                                      REFRESHMENTS WILL BE PROVIDED.
 

                                       WINTER 2023 SESSION

                       Tuesday 10 January - Thursday 16 March
                          
          
                                   Returning Students/Instructors


Students/instructors currently attending the fall 2022 session need to let us know no later than Friday 16 December if they will be attending or not the winter 2023 session by using the online Returning Student/Instructor Confirmation  Form.    If no form is received, we will automatically assume that you will not be attending and your spot will be assigned to a new student on the waiting list.

​
                                                                       
New Students

​New students wishing to join the winter 2023 session can submit the online New Student Registration Form.   Registrations are processed on a first come first served basis.   We will inform you of space availability during the week of 19 December.

 Fall 2022 Session
Testing Programme 
for Tues 13 Dec

                                            ​​​

Fall 2022 Session
Attendance Stats
           20 Sep - 17 Nov 2022
                                                         â€‹â€‹â€‹

WINTER 2023 SESSION ACTIVITIES   

 

      (Tuesday 10 January - Thursday 16 March)       

​​​

  • Thursday 5 January, 6:00 pm:  An important information meeting for all new students will be held at the Dojo (lower level).  The purpose of the meeting is to meet the new students/parents, present how the Dojo operates, sign the release of liability form, size new and returning students for their uniforms (dogi) if needed, take pictures of students and answer any questions.  

 

  •  Tuesday 10 January:  First day of classes.  Please use the entrances as follows:

    • 5 - 6 years old class (6:00 pm):  use the upper level door to enter and exit the Dojo.​

    • 7 - 11 years old class (6:00 pm):  use the lower level door to enter and exit the Dojo.

    • Youths (12+)/adults class (7:15 pm): use the lower level door to enter and exit the Dojo.

​

  •  Thursday 15 March: Last day of karate classes for the winter session.  See the Dojo calendar for the session activities.   The Dojo closure will coincide with the school spring break.  The spring karate session will start on Tuesday 4 April, after the school spring break ends.

​

  • REGISTRATION:   We currently have a few openings available for new students.  New students wishing to join the winter 2023 session may submit the online New Student Registration Form.   Registrations are processed on a first come first served basis.   We will inform you of space availability within  2 to 3 days.

 

                                                          Contact us if you have any questions.

RELEASE OF LIABILITY FORM

​

 Students/parents are required to sign a Release of Liability form  before attending the first class (paper copy will be provided).  The form can be viewed here.

WINTER 2023 SESSION  

 

      (Tuesday 10 January - Thursday 16 March)       

​​​

  •  Entering the Dojo:  Please use the entrances as follows:

    • 5 - 6 years old class (6:00 pm):  use the upper level door to enter and exit the Dojo.​

    • 7 - 11 years old class (6:00 pm):  use the lower level door to enter and exit the Dojo.

    • Youths (12+)/adults class (7:15 pm): use the lower level door to enter and exit the Dojo.

​

  •  Thursday 15 March: Last day of karate classes for the winter session.  See the Dojo calendar for the session activities.   The Dojo closure will coincide with the school spring break.  The spring karate session will start on Tuesday 4 April, after the school spring break ends.

​

  • REGISTRATION:   Registration for the winter session is now closed.  See below for registrations for the spring session (4 April to 15 June).                                                          

     SPRING 2023 SESSION  

 

           (Tuesday 4 April - Thursday 15 June)       

​​​​​

RETURNING STUDENTS/INSTRUCTORS

​            

  • ​Current students/instructors (i.e. those currently attending the winter 2023 session) do not need to  resubmit a New Student Registration Form to attend the spring session.  Instead, you just need to submit the short online Returning Student/Instructor Confirmation Form no later than Friday 17 March to guarantee your spot for the spring session.  After that date, remaining spots will be allocated to new students on the waiting list.

​

​                                                                                   â€‹â€‹NEW STUDENTS
 

  • Now accepting new student registrations for the spring session.

            

  • ​Please send us the online New Student Registration Form no later than Friday 17 March.  Registrations are processed on a first come first served basis.   We will inform you of space availability during the week of 20 March.  For new student information, see our Programs/Pricing page.

​

  • An information meeting will be held at the Dojo on Thursday 30 March at 6:00 pm.   The purpose of the meeting is to meet the new students/parents, present how the Dojo operates, sign the release of liability form, size students for their uniforms and answer any questions.

​​

                                                Contact us if you have any questions

                                         
                           WINTER 2023 SESSION - MARCH ACTIVITIES 


Thursday 2 March:  Regular classes.  

Sunday 5 March:     - Two make-up classes for students to improve their winter session attendance record                                                          (minimum 75% required for testing), improve their skills or simply get more training.  Classes                                          are free;  just show-up.  Enter using the lower level. The make-up classes are for all age                                                    groups.   Students can attend one or both classes:

                                                                                      - 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm.

                                                                                      - 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm.

                                      -
All
 testing criteria can be found here (bottom of page)

- Tuesday 7 March:   Regular classes.  Students considered ready for testing will be informed by their respective                                              instructors. 

Thursday 9 March:  - 6:00 pm (upper level): testing for 5-6 years old class.
                                      - 6:00 pm and 7:15 pm (lower level): regular classes for 7-11 years old and youths/adults                                                 
  respectively.

- Tuesday 14 March:  - No 6:00 pm class for 5-6 years old.

                                       - 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm (lower level):  testing for 7-11 years old class.
                                       - 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm (lower level): testing for youths (12+)/adults class.

- Thursday 16 March: - 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm (lower level):  Presentation of test results and demonstrations for all                                                    classes. Families are invited to attend.
                                        - This is the last activity of the winter session.  The Dojo is closed during the school spring                                                   brea
k (20 - 31 March).

                        
THE SPRING SESSION WILL START ON TUESDAY 4 APRIL.   IF YOU HAVE NOT DONE SO ALREADY, THE DEADLINE TO LET US KNOW IF YOU WILL BE ATTENDING IS FRIDAY 17 MARCH.  SEE BELOW FOR MORE INFORMATION.
 

Registration for the winter 2023 session is now closed.  Registration forms for the spring session (4 April to 15 June) are now being accepted (forms are processed on a first come first served basis).

   We will inform you of space availability during the week of 20 March.

SPRING 2023 SESSION KEY ACTIVITIES   

 

      (Tuesday 4 April - Thursday 15 Jun)       

​​​

  • Thursday 30 March, 6:00 pm:  An important information meeting for all spring session new students will be held at the Dojo (lower level).  The purpose of the meeting is to meet the new students/parents, present how the Dojo operates, sign the release of liability form, size students for their uniforms (dogi), take pictures of students and answer any questions.  

 

  • Tuesday 4 April:  First day of classes (classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays).  Please use the entrances as follows:

    • 5 - 6 years old class (6:00 pm):  use the upper level door to enter and exit the Dojo.​

    • 7 - 11 years old class (6:00 pm):  use the lower level door to enter and exit the Dojo.

    • Youths (12+)/adults class (7:15 pm): use the lower level door to enter and exit the Dojo.

​

  • Tuesday 23 May:  No classes due to special event at the Cedar Centre.

​

  • Sunday 4 June: Two make-up classes for students who want to improve their attendance record (minimum 75% required for testing), improve their skills or simply get more training.  Classes are free;  just show-up.  The make-up classes are for all age groups.   Students can attend one or both classes:

    • 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm

    • 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm                                                                                                                                                                     

  • Thursday 8 June and Tuesday 13 June: Testing.  More information will be provided in May.

​

  • Thursday 15 June: Presentation of tests results and demonstrations. End of the spring session.  More information will be provided in May.

​

  • There are no classes during the summer months.  The fall session starts on Tuesday 12 September.  See the Dojo calendar for more details. 

​

  • NEW STUDENTS REGISTRATION: 

​

  • Spring session:  Registration is now closed.  See below to register for the Fall session.

​

  • Fall session (Tuesday 12 September to Thursday 14 December)

    • Now accepting new student registrations for the fall 2023 session.         

    • Submit the online New Student Registration Form no later than Friday 11 August.  Registrations are processed on a first come first served basis.   We will inform you of space availability during the week of 14 August.  For new student information, see our Programs/Pricing page.

 

                                                          Contact us if you have any questions.

                            NO CLASSES ON TUESDAY 23 MAY
           DUE TO SPECIAL EVENT TAKING PLACE AT THE CENTRE

                                         
                                          SPRING 2023 SESSION

                                                   JUNE ACTIVITIES


 Sunday 4 June:     - Two make-up classes for students to improve their winter session attendance record                                                          (minimum 75% required for testing), improve their skills or simply benefitting from the 
                                      extra 
training.   The make-up classes are offered at no cost to our students simply by
                                      showing up at the Dojo.  Please e
nter using the lower level.  The make-up classes are
                                      for all age groups and students are welcome to attend one or both classes:

                                                                                      - 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm.

                                                                                      - 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm.

                                      -
All
 testing criteria can be found here (bottom of page).

- Tuesday 6 June:     - Regular classes.  Students considered ready for testing will be informed by their respective                                              instructors. 

Thursday 8 June:    - 6:00 pm to 6:30 pm (upper level): testing for 5-6 years old class.
                                      - 6:00 pm and 7:15 pm (lower level): regular classes for 7-11 years old and youths/adults                                                 
  respectively.

- Tuesday 13 June:     - No 6:00 pm class for 5-6 years old.

                                       - 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm (lower level):  testing for 7-11 years old class.
                                       - 7:15 pm to 8:30 pm (lower level): testing for youths (12+)/adults class.

- Thursday 15 June:   - 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm (lower level):  Presentation of test results and demonstrations for all                                                    classes. Families are invited to attend.
                                        - This is the last activity of the spring
 session.  The Dojo is closed during the summer months.   
                        

          SPRING  2023 SESSION

           Instructor Schedules 

  for helpers and  warm-up/kihon

                    

  • Apr 2023  

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  • May 2023

​​

  • Jun 2023                                                                    

     FALL 2023 SESSION  

 

           (Tuesday 12 September - Thursday 14 December) 

 

See question 1.3 in our Q&A page for the new class schedule  and age groups for the fall session.

​​​​​

RETURNING STUDENTS/INSTRUCTORS

​            

  • ​Current students/instructors (i.e. those attending the spring 2023 session) do not need to resubmit a New Student Registration Form to attend the fall session.  Instead, you just need to submit the short online  Fall 2023 Session Status Form no later than Friday 11 August to reserve your spot for the fall session.  

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  • The fall session invoices will be e-mailed at least two weeks before the start of the session.  To join the session, payment must be received before the start of the session (due date will be on the invoice).  If payment is not received by the due date, your spot will be allocated to a new student on our waiting list.

​

​

​                                                                                   â€‹â€‹NEW STUDENTS
 

  • Now accepting new student registrations for the fall session.

            

  • ​Please send us the online New Student Registration Form no later than Friday 11 August.  Registrations are processed on a first come first served basis.   We will inform you of space availability during the week of 14 August.  For new student information, see our Programs/Pricing page.

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  • For the new students who were informed that they may attend the fall session, an information meeting will be held at the Dojo on Thursday 7 September at 5:30 pm.   The purpose of the meeting is to meet the new students/parents, present how the Dojo operates, sign the release of liability form, size and give students their uniforms and answer any questions.

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                                                Contact us if you have any questions.

     FALL 2023 SESSION  

 

           (Tuesday 12 September - Thursday 14 December) 

 

See the Programs/pricing page for the new class schedule  and age groups for the fall session.

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​                                                                                   â€‹â€‹NEW STUDENTS
 

  • Registration for the fall session is now closed.  We are now accepting new student registrations for the winter 2024 session.  The winter session dates will be available shortly. 

            

  • ​Please send us the online New Student Registration Form no later than Friday 25 August.  Registrations are processed on a first come first served basis.   We  will  inform  you  of  space  availability  no  later  than    Friday 1 Sep.  For new student information, see our Programs/Pricing page.

​

  • For the new students who were informed that they may attend the fall session, an information meeting will be held at the Dojo on Thursday 7 September at 5:30 pm.   The purpose of the meeting is to meet the new students/parents, present how the Dojo operates, sign the release of liability form, size and give students their uniforms and answer any questions.

​​

                                                Contact us if you have any questions.

  FALL 2023 SESSION KEY ACTIVITIES   

 

(Tuesday 12 September - Thursday 14 December) 

 

      Registration for the fall session is closed.      

​​​

  • Thursday 7 September, 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm):  An important information meeting for all fall session new students will be held at the Dojo (lower level).  The purpose of the meeting is to meet the new students/parents, present how the Dojo operates, sign the release of liability form, size students for their uniforms (dogi), take pictures of students and answer any questions.  

 

  • Tuesday 12 September:  First day of classes (classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays).  Please use the entrances as follows:

    • 5 - 6 years old class (5:30 pm - 6:00 pm):  use the upper level door to enter and exit the Dojo.​

    • 7 - 10 years old class (5:30 pm - 6:30 pm):  use the lower level door to enter and exit the Dojo.

    • Youths (11+)/adults class (6:45 pm - 8:00 pm): use the lower level door to enter and exit the Dojo.

​

  • Tuesday 31 October:  NO CLASSES - HALLOWEEN

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  • Saturday 4 November:  Bottle drive: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. â€‹â€‹  More details available here.                                                                                                                                                               

  • Thursday 7 December and Tuesday 12 December: Testing.  More information will be provided in November.

​

  • Thursday 14 December: Presentation of tests results and demonstrations. End of the fall session.  More information will be provided in November.

​​

                                         
                                           FALL 2023 SESSION

                                              TESTING ACTIVITIES
                 

- Tuesday 5 Dec:       - Regular classes.  Students considered ready for testing will be informed by their respective                                              instructors. All testing criteria can be found here (bottom of that page).

Thursday 7 Dec:      - 5:30 pm to 6:00 pm (upper level): testing for 5-6 years old class.
                                      - 5:30 pm and 6:45 pm (lower level): regular classes for 7-10 years old and youths (
11+)/adults                                           respectively.

- Tuesday 12 Dec:     - No 5:30 pm class for 5-6 years old.

                                     - 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm (lower level):  testing for 7-10 years old class.
                                     - 6:45 pm to 8:00 pm (lower level): testing for youths (11+)/adults class.










- Thursday 14 Dec:   - End of year event for all age groups/classes.  Families are invited to attend.
          
                           - 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm:  presentation of test results and demonstrations (lower level).                                                           - 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm:  snacks and refreshments (upper level) for all students and their families.
                                     
                 
                
 
FAMILIES ARE INVITED TO BRING FINGER FOODS (appetizer or dessert) TO SERVE 6 to 8 PEOPLE.                                                                                      REFRESHMENTS WILL BE PROVIDED.  
                                        

In order to plan for the
     Thursday 14 December end of year event
     mentioned above, please let us know by
       FRIDAY 8 DECEMBER
how many family members (including students) will be attending by completing
 this short online form. 
Belts and stripes.JPG
buffet.jpg

 2022
 

  • 19 Nov 

                                    ​​​

IMPORTANT NOTICE

TO ALL FALL 2023 SESSION STUDENTS & INSTRUCTORS 

​                                                               â€‹

Planning for the winter/spring 2024 session is underway and we need to know if you will be attending or not.  ALL STUDENTS AND INSTRUCTORS WHO ATTENDED THE FALL 2023 SESSION need to submit the online Returning Student Registration Form by Friday 12 January 2024 and select one of the four options as listed on the form:

 

  • YES:  You will be attending the winter/spring 2024 session.

  • NO BUT:  You will NOT be attending the winter/spring 2024 session BUT would like your name to be included on the waiting list for the fall 2024 session.

  • NO: You will not be attending the winter/spring 2024 session nor any future sessions. 

  • ​OTHERProvide details and we will contact you.

                                                                               

If we do not receive the form by the deadline, we will automatically assume that you are not returning for the winter/spring 2024  session nor any future sessions.​​

WINTER/SPRING 2024 SESSION

Tuesday 6 February to Thursday 30 May

KEY DATES/ACTIVITIES

​                                                               â€‹

​​

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​​

  • Friday 26 Jan: Deadline to register for the winter/spring session.  The original Friday 12 Jan deadline has been extended. 

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  • Monday 15 Jan: 

    • Students on waiting list will be informed of space availability.​

    • Invoices issued to all students (new and returning) attending the session.

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  • Friday 26 Jan: Deadline for payment of invoices.​

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  • Thursday 1 Feb (5:30 pm to 6:30pm): Information meeting for all new students and parents.                                                                      See Q&A 2.4, 2.5 and 3.4  for more information.

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  • Saturday 3 Feb (10:00 am to 2:00 pm):   Bottle drive (click here for more information).

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  • Tuesday 6 Feb: First class of session.

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  • Monday 18 Mar - Fri 29 Mar: NO CLASSES during the school spring break.

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  • Thursday 23 May and Tuesday 28 May: Testing (more info to be provided in April).

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  • Thursday 30 May: Presentation of test results.  Last class of the session.​

​

DOJO CLOSED DURING JUN, JUL AND AUG  

6-2417 Golf Course Dr., Blind Bay, BC, V0E 1H2
www.goodnessblindbayhealthfoods.ca
hello@goodnessblindbayhealthfoods.ca
(250) 675-2828
Thank you for supporting the Dojo by donating
the reverse osmosis water jug refills.
6-7 yr old class
To
George Sensei
who was promoted to
2nd Dan Black Belt

Keith Hargitt
1968 - 2024

It is with great sadness that we have to report that Keith Hargitt Shihan passed away at Fort St. John Hospital January 8th 2024.  Keith Shihan had been very ill for some time and due to his debilitating illness, he was unable to practice his very loved Shorei-Kan Karate.  

He was the 2nd son of Vic Hargitt Shihan and a master technician when it came to Shorei-Kan Karate.  Keith Shihan started training at Delview school dojo late 1979 under the direction of Koyabu Shihan and as a green belt in 1983 he travelled to Japan/Okinawa for the first time for a demonstration.  He was able to travel to Okinawa and Tokyo a few more times for tournaments and examinations.  He attained the rank of Shihan Godan in Japan in the year 2000.

He was also instrumental in the running of the Surrey Shorei-Kan Dojo for many years and when he moved from Vancouver to Princeton, he opened up a dojo in his new home, the town of Princeton.  He later moved up to Fort St. John but due to poor health was unable to open up a dojo or practice Shorei-Kan Karate.

He will be sorely missed by all.

 

Keith Shihan was the first to tie Jack Shihan's Shodan Belt

Pictures of Keith Shihan at Koyabu Dojo

SATURDAY 3 FEBRUARY 2024
Thank you to Kasey Lewis for organizing our second bottle drive, and assisting the 26 students/family members in collecting and sorting approximately 13,000 cans/bottles.

                                         TOTAL RAISED:   $1,495.10

The first bottle drive (held on Saturday 3 November) raised $1,155.20, for a combined total of $2,650.30.  The funds raised were divided among the 9 members of the Dojo participating in the March 2024 Goju-Ryu Shorei-Kan Karate tournament taking place in Tokyo, Japan.

CONGRATULATIONS
to
Alicia Sensei
and
Kimberly Sensei
who were promoted to
1st Dan Black Belt
on Sunday 7 April

WINTER/SPRING 2024 SESSION

Tuesday 6 February to Thursday 30 May

UPCOMING KEY DATES/ACTIVITIES

                              â€‹â€‹â€‹â€‹â€‹â€‹â€‹â€‹â€‹â€‹â€‹â€‹

​

  • Thursday 16 May:  The Centre is not available that day.  Weather permitting, classes will be held outdoors.  Must wear running shoes; no bare feet allowed  in light of the construction activities on and around the golf course.  We will send an e-mail by 3:00 pm if the classes are cancelled due to inclement weather.

    • 5:30 pm - 6:00 pm class (5 - 6 years old):  lower level grass area beside the mailboxes.

    • 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm class (7 - 10 years old): upper level grass area beside the pickleball courts.

    • 6:45 pm - 8:00 pm class (youths (11+)/adults):  upper level grass area beside the pickleball courts.

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  • Tuesday 21 May:  Test notification (students considered ready for testing will be informed by their respective instructors).

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  • Thursday 23 May (5:30 pm to 6:00 pm):  Test for  5 - 6 years old class students on the upper level.  Regular classes for all other students.

​

  • Friday 24 May:  Deadline to let us know if you will be attending the end of session Thurs 30 May wrap-up event.  See below for more information and how to let us know.

​

  • Tuesday 28 May:  No 5 - 6 years old class.

​

  • Tuesday 28 May:  Test for 7 - 10 years old class (5:30 pm to 6:30 pm) and youths (11+)/adults class (6:45 pm to 8:00 pm) on the lower level.

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  • Thursday 30 May:  End of session wrap up event for all age groups/classes.  This is a combined event for all classes.  All families are invited to attend.  The event is dedicated to Master Toguchi Seikichi, the founder of Shorei-Kan.  Master Toguchi was born on 20 May 1917 in Naha City;  he passed away on 31 August 1998 at the age of 81.​

    • 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm:  presentation of test results and demonstrations (lower level).

    • 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm:  snacks, hot dogs and refreshments (upper level or outside subject to the weather) for all students and their families.

​​​

FAMILIES ARE INVITED TO BRING FINGER FOODS (appetizer or dessert) TO SERVE 6 to 8 PEOPLE.           REFRESHMENTS AND HOT DOGS WILL BE PROVIDED.  â€‹â€‹

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  • Monday 1 July:  The Dojo will participate in the South Shuswap Canada Day parade.  More info to follow later.

​

DOJO CLOSED DURING JUN, JUL AND AUG 

Belts and stripes.JPG

Master Toguchi Seikichi
Founder of Shorei-Kan

In order to plan for the
     end of session wrap-up event
     mentioned above, please let us know by
       FRIDAY 24 MAY
how many family members (including students) will be attending by completing
 this short online form. 
The Dojo will participate in the Canada Day parade on Monday 1 July.  We meet at the intersection of Glenview and Balmoral Roads at 8:45 am.  Judging is at 9:15 am.

The parade begins at 10:00 am and goes from Glenview along Balmoral, Blind Bay Rd and then ends at Centennial Field.  Wear a clean dogi and running shoes.  

Hope to see you on 1 July.  Contact us if you have any questions.

            

​REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR

THE FALL 2024 SESSION

​

(Session dates: Tuesday 10 September to Thursday 12 December)

​

REGISTRATION DEADLINE:  Friday 16 August 2024

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FALL 2024 SESSION

Tuesday 10 September to Thursday 12 December

KEY DATES/ACTIVITIES

​                                                               â€‹

​​

​​

​​

​​

​​

​​

  • Friday 16 August: Deadline.  REGISTRATION FOR THE FALL SESSION IS NOW CLOSED.   See the section below to register for the next session (winter/spring 2025).   â€‹â€‹â€‹

​

​

  • Monday 19 August: 

    • Students on waiting list will be informed of space availability.​

    • Invoices issued to all students (new and returning) attending the session.

​

​

  • Saturday 31 August: Deadline for payment of invoices.​   Must be received by the deadline to maintain your spot on the fall session student list.

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  • Thursday 5 September (5:30 pm to 6:30 pm): Information meeting for all new students and parents.                                                                      See Q&A 2.4, 2.5 and 3.5  for more information.

​

​​

  • Tuesday 10 September: First class of session.​

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  • Thursday 31 October:  No classes (Halloween).

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  • Thursday 5 December and Tuesday 10 December: Testing (more info to be provided in November).

​

  • Thursday 12 December:  Presentation of test results, demonstrations, presentation of the Student of the Year Award, and end of year event.  Last class of the session.​

​

DOJO CLOSED FROM 13 DECEMBER 2024 TO 3 FEBRUARY 2025.  WINTER/SPRING 2025 SESSION WILL START ON 4 FEBRUARY. 

ONGOING
In light of the great success of our fundraising effort ($2,650.30) for the 9 members of the Dojo who participated in the March 2024 Japan Shorei-Kan tournament, we are now conducting a bottle drive throughout the year in preparation for the 2025 tournament.  When selling your empties, you are invited to donate the proceeds to the Dojo.  The funds can be E-transferred to shorei.kan.canada.shuswap.dojo@gmail.com or bring a cheque/cash to the Dojo. The progress will be recorded in the fundraising thermometer below.  Thank you for your support.                                        

 
Go Fund Me thermometer - for website - updated 1 Jun 2024 (1).jpg

                                         
                                           FALL 2024 SESSION

                                              TESTING ACTIVITIES
                 

- Tuesday 3 Dec:       - Regular classes.  Students considered ready for testing will be informed by their respective                                              instructors. All testing criteria can be found here (bottom of that page).

Thursday 5 Dec:      - 5:30 pm to 6:00 pm (upper level): Testing for 5-6 years old class.
                                      - 5:30 pm and 6:45 pm (lower level): Regular classes for 7-10 years old and youths
                                        
11+)/adults respectively.

- Tuesday 10 Dec:     - No 5:30 pm class for 5-6 years old.

                                     - 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm (lower level):  Testing for 7-10 years old class.
                                     - 6:45 pm to 8:00 pm (lower level): Testing for youths (11+)/adults class.










- Thursday 12 Dec:   - End of year event for all age groups/classes.  Families are invited to attend.
          
                           - 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm:  Presentation of test results, demonstrations and presentation of the
                                       Student of the Year award (lower level).
 
                                     - 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm:  Snacks and refreshments (upper level) for all students and their families.
                                     
                 
                
 
FAMILIES ARE ENCOURAGED TO BRING FINGER FOODS (appetizer or dessert) TO SERVE 6 to 8 PEOPLE.                                                                                      REFRESHMENTS WILL BE PROVIDED.  
                                        

In order to plan for the
     Thursday 12 December end of year event
     mentioned above, please let us know by
       FRIDAY 6 DECEMBER
how many family members (including students) will be attending by completing
 this short online form. 
Belts and stripes.JPG
buffet.jpg

We have a unique and exciting fundraising opportunity being offered to us by
Woodland Cabins in White Lake. 

If anyone books their Grand Fir Upper Lodge using our code between 6 Nov and 14 Dec 2024, they will donate 100% of the profit to our Dojo to support the Mar 2025 trip to Japan.

Please tell anyone who is travelling to this area or anyone needing accommodations about this opportunity.

For information or to make a reservation:

www.woodlandcabins.ca
(250) 803-4670
guestservices@woodlandcabins.ca

Use code:  SHOREIKAI2024

THANK YOU WOODLAND CABINS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Fundraising.png

JAPAN TOURNAMENT - SUNDAY 23 MARCH 2025

We are conducting two fundraisers to support the Dojo team who will participate in the Shorei-Kan Goju Ryu tournament in Tokyo:   

 

  • Fundraiser #1 (6 Nov through 14 Dec 2024): Lodging offer by Woodland Cabins in White Lake (see below for details).

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  • Fundraiser #2 (4 Feb through 13 Mar 2025):  Raffle (tickets will be available for sale on 4 Feb).  More details to follow in Dec 2024.    ​​​

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The Dojo is closed from 13 Dec 2024 to 3 Feb 2025.  The winter/spring 2025 session will start on Tues 4 Feb.
  You must register (see below) to attend the session.
In order to plan for the
     Thursday 12 December end of year event
     mentioned above, please let us know by
       FRIDAY 6 DECEMBER
how many family members (including students) will be attending by completing
 this short online form. 

WINTER/SPRING 2025 SESSION

Tuesday 4 February to Thursday 29 May

KEY DATES/ACTIVITIES

​                                         â€‹

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  • Friday 17 Jan: Deadline.  Registration is now closed for the winter/spring session.  See the bottom of the homepage to register for the fall 2025 session. â€‹

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  • Saturday 18 Jan: 

    • Latest day students on the waiting list will be informed of space availability.​

    • Invoices issued to all students (new and returning) attending the session.​

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  • Wednesday 29 Jan: Deadline for payment of invoices.​  Must be paid by the deadline to guarantee your spot.

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  • Thursday 30 Jan (5:30 pm to 6:30 pm): Orientation meeting for all new students and parents.                                                                        See your invoice and Q&A 2.4, 2.5 and 3.5  for more information.​​​​​​​​

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  • Tuesday 4 Feb: First class of session.

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  • Tuesday 4 Feb: Tickets go on sale for our winter 2025 raffle fundraiser.  See the section below for more                                      details.

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  • Thursday 13 Mar, 6:15 pm:  Draw for the raffle prizes at the Dojo.

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  • Monday 17 Mar - Fri 28 Mar: NO CLASSES during the school spring break.

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  • Tuesday 27 May: Testing (more info to be provided in April).

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  • Thursday 29 May: Presentation of test results.  Last class of session.​

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DOJO CLOSED DURING JUN, JUL AND AUG 

We received the shipment but not all sizes have arrived.  If the size we provided you does not fit, return the item to the Dojo and fill in the clothing order form (available at the Dojo) for a replacement item.  If you did not place an order in January and would like to do so now, fill in the clothing order form as well.  The deadline to submit the clothing order form is Thursday 13 February.    We will inform you when the new items will be ready for pick-up at the Dojo during regular class hours.    Invoices will only be issued once all items you ordered are the correct size.

SHOREI-KAN CLOTHING         
 

                2025 WINTER RAFFLE FUNDRAISER




The raffle winners are:
1st prize:   One day guided pontoon boat trip on Shuswap Lake (summer 2025).
2nd prize:  One day guided pontoon boat trip on Shuswap Lake (summer 2025).
3rd prize:  $350. gift certificate from inTechrity Solutions.
4th prize:  $75. gift card for the Blind Bay Village Grocer.
5th prize:  Traditional Japanese doll (14 inches).
6th prize:  Traditional Japanese doll (6 inches)
7th prize:  Traditional Japanese doll (6 inches) and coasters.
8th prize:  Karate uniform.
9th prize:  Fall 2025 karate session
10th prize:  $100. gift certificate from Bedroc Greenhouses. 
11th prize:  Wine serving kit.

12th prize:  $100. gift card for Purdy's Chocolatier.         â€‹â€‹â€‹â€‹â€‹â€‹â€‹â€‹

Thank you to all those who supported the fundraiser by purchasing tickets, selling tickets or donating prizes.  The funds raised will help to support our Dojo activities such as paying the rent.

                                         TOTAL RAISED:   $3,000.

 
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Karate session

1.  CLASSES 

2.  REGISTRATION 

3.  FEES 

4.  TESTING

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1.  CLASSES​

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1.1  Which style of karate do you teach in your Dojo?

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1.2  What is the minimum age to join the Dojo?

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1.3  Which days of the week and times are the classes?

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1.4  Do you have a maximum number of students per class?

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1.5  Which class will I attend when I join the Dojo as a new student?

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1.6  May I attend classes all year round?

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1.7  Do you offer free trial classes?  

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1.8  May I watch a class before deciding to join?

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1.9  Do you offer private lessons?

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1.10  Can I join the Dojo at any time?

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1.11  May I practice at home?

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1.12  May parents/family members/visitors watch the classes?

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1.13  Can parents join the 7-10 years old class with their child/children?

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1.14  Do you have measures in place to safeguard students?

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1.15  When does a student move up a class?

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1.16  Do I keep my stripes/belt when I move up a class?

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2.  REGISTRATION

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2.How do I register as a new student?

​

2.2  Why is reading the Dojo Code of Ethics and Conduct important prior to submitting the New Student Registration Form?

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2.3  What happens after I submit the New Student Registration Form?

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2.4  Do you have an orientation meeting for new students?

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2.5  Why do I have to sign a Release of Liability Form?

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2.6  If I have already submitted my New Student Registration Form, attended a session, how do I register for the next session?

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2.7  What happens if I attended one or more consecutive sessions and decide to skip a session (for example to participate in soccer or baseball during the spring period), but want to rejoin the fall session?

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2.8  As a follow-up to question 2.7 above, why am I placed on a waiting list and not guaranteed a spot for the following session?

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2.9  Do I still need to submit the online Returning Student Registration Form if I don't want to attend the next session nor any future session?

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2.10  Who handles the Dojo administration and student registrations?

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3. FEES

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3.Why are your student fees much lower than other martial arts clubs?  Are there hidden fees?

​

3.2  Where do I purchase a karate uniform?

​

3.3  Can I return a uniform (and get a refund) or exchange for a different size after it has been worn?

​

3.4  Do you sell second hand uniforms?

​

3.5  When do I receive my uniform?

​

3.6  Do I need to purchase a new bo when I outgrow the one I bought as a White Belt three green stripes?

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3.7  How do I pay?

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3.8  When will I receive my session invoice and when is payment due?

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3.9  Why do I need to pay before the start of a session?

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3.10  Do you offer a discount if more than one family member attends a session?

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3.11  If I attend only one class a week or I am away for part of the session, can I pay reduced session fees?

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3.12  Can I pre-pay to reserve a spot for a future session?

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3.13  Do you accept payments from home school and grant organizations?

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4. TESTING

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4.1  How many belt levels do you have?

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4.2  How often does testing occur and how are my promotions recorded?

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1.  CLASSES

​​​

1.1  Which style of karate do you teach in your Dojo?

​

​We teach the Okinawan Goju Ryu style of Karate, meaning a hard/soft style taught in the school of politeness and respect.  Shorei-Kan Karate was brought to Canada in 1972.  The Shorei-Kan Canada Karate Association is currently headed by Vic Hargitt Shihan, 8th degree Black Belt.  The Shuswap Dojo was established in 2011 and is the Honbu Dojo (Headquarters ) for Shorei-Kan Canada.  The Association is a non-profit organization and all instructors are volunteers.

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1.2  What is the minimum age to join the Dojo?

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Must be 7 years old by the end of the starting month of a session.  

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1.3  Which days of the week and times are the classes?

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Two classes are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays as follows:

  • 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm:  7-10 years old.

  • 6:45 pm to 8:00 pm:  youths (11+)/adults.

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1.4  Do you have a maximum number of students per class?

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Yes.  Our maximum number of students takes into account the number of instructors, the Dojo floor space and an instructor/student ratio conducive to effective teaching and learning:​

  • 7-10 years old class:  40

  • Youths(11+)/adults class:  35

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1.5  Which class will I attend when I join the Dojo as a new student?

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New students must reach the minimum age by the end of the starting month of a session to join the Dojo in their age group class (see Q&A 1.3 and 1.4 above for the age groups).  Specific dates are shown on the New Student Registration Form.​

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1.6  May I attend classes all year round?

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No.  â€‹We offer two sessions per year (see the At a glance page for the exact dates):

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  • Winter/spring session:  February to May (15 weeks of classes).  No classes during the two-week school spring break.  The 15 weeks are broken down as follows:  6 weeks before the spring break and 9 weeks after the spring break.

  • Fall session:  September to December (14 weeks of continuous classes).

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1.7  Do you offer free trial classes?  

​

No.  Since we operate on a session basis, we need to know before a session starts, how many students will be attending in order to plan the new student orientation meeting, the Dojo rental requirements, dues to Shorei Kan Canada to cover insurance, restocking of supplies (such as dogis, bos), preparation/printing of documentation, etc.  Those expenses are based on the number of students joining the session and are incurred before the session starts.  See Q&A 3.8 for more details about payments.  Additionally, instructor group assignments are based on the number of students across ten different belt/stripe levels with over 40 different subjects to teach.  

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1.8  May I watch a class before deciding to join?

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Yes.  You may come to the Dojo at any time during a session to watch a class or classes as a spectator.  If interested in joining, you can then submit a New Student Registration Form for the next session.  See Q&A 2. for more information about registration.

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1.9  Do you offer private lessons?

​

No.  We do not offer private lessons (paid or unpaid).   Our insurance policy does not allow private lessons. Additionally, our volunteer instructors already donate a total of over 1,000 hours of their time each session teaching two evenings a week (2 classes per evening).  They also perform all the Dojo management activities outside of class hours.  See Q&A 2.10 for more details.

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1.10  Can I join the Dojo at any time?

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No.   Each session has a registration deadline.  We operate on a per session basis to teach the stripes/belts subjects, with testing at the end of each session.  To keep up with the subjects being taught, students may join a session only at the beginning of a session; students cannot join part-way through a session.  Registration forms received after the session registration deadline will be placed on the waiting list for the next session.  See Q&A 2.1 below on how to register and Q&A 3.8 on when payments are due.

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1.11  May I practice at home?

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Yes.  We encourage students to practice at home to complement their in Dojo training; our website contains seven Home Training Guides.  Additionally, registered students have access to a Dojo members-only password protected page which contains videos and pictorial sequences of many subjects.   The password is provided in the Student Record of Promotion booklet which new students receive during the new student information meeting (see Q&A 2.4 below).

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1.12  May parents/family members/visitors watch the classes?

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Yes.  Parents/family members/visitors are welcome to sit-in during classes; your interest and presence is most encouraging for the students.  However, let the instructors handle the teaching and conduct in class.   

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1.13  Can parents join the 7-10 years old class with their child/children?

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No for two reasons:

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  • This would be a distraction to the other students as well as the instructors.  As mentioned in Q&A 1.12 above, the instructors are responsible for handling all teaching and student conduct in class.

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  • In light of our maximum number of students in the 7-10 years old class, an adult occupying a spot in that class would prevent a child from joining.

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Additionally, parents cannot "shadow" their child/children on the Dojo floor.  Our liability insurance covers only those individuals who are registered students and instructors.   Parents, other family members, guardians, friends and visitors are therefore not permitted to participate in a class.  With our increasing number of students, there is only space on the Dojo floor for students and instructors.

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1.14 Do you have measures in place to safeguard students?

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Yes.  We seek to provide a safe and secure environment for students of all ages.  We have a Policy to Safeguard Students and all instructors must abide by this policy.

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The Dojo is registered with the BC Criminal Records Review Program.  All Black Belt instructors must undergo a Criminal Record Check.

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1.15  When does a student move up a class?

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The student's age, maturity, progress, readiness as well as space availability are taken into consideration in deciding when and if a student will move up a class.  A student will normally move from the 7-10 years old class to the youths (11+)/adults class when the student turns 11 years old before the start of or during the session.

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Parents will be consulted before moving a student to the next class.  In some cases, even though having reached the minimum age for the next class, a student may remain in his/her current class for one additional session.

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Students will be informed which class they will be attending approximately 3 weeks before the start of a session.  If after a few weeks in the new class a student has demonstrated that he/she is unable to cope with the demands of the new class (such as longer class times, more intense training and more subjects to learn), the student will be moved back to the former class for the remainder of the session. 

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1.16  Do I keep my stripes/belt when I move up a class?​​

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When moving from the 7-10 years old class to the youths (11+)/adults class: The student keeps his/her belt/stripes.  Since the youths (11+)/adults class curriculum has more subjects than the 7-10 years old class curriculum,  students will be taught the additional subjects prior to their next test.

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2. REGISTRATION

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2.1  How do I register as a new student?

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Simply by submitting the online New Student Registration Form.

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2.2  Why is reading the Dojo Code of Ethics and Conduct important prior to submitting the New Student Registration Form?

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The Dojo has a duty of care to teach karate in the best possible safe environment for students to learn, instructors to teach and parents/visitors to watch.  The Code of Ethics is the set of overarching principles based on the core values of Shorei-Kan and the Code of Conduct is the set of rules that we follow to support those values which provide the framework for the operation of the Dojo.  All persons (students, instructors and parents/visitorsinvolved with the Dojo must understanding their respective responsibilities.

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2.3  What happens after I submit the New Student Registration Form?

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Each session has a deadline for registration which is advertised on the website.   After we receive your New Student Registration Form, your name is added to our student list for the next session; you will also receive a confirmation e-mail.  An orientation meeting for all new students (see Q&A 2.4 below) is held the week before the start of a session.   

 

When a form is received, the submission is automatically logged by our registration system in the order received, leaving no chance for error.  If the session is full when we receive your New Student Registration Form, we will contact you to discuss.

 

Forms received after a session registration deadline will be placed on the student list for the next session.

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2.4  Do you have an orientation meeting for new students?

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Yes.  New students are invited to attend an orientation meeting which is held the Thursday before the start of a session.   The purpose of the meeting is to meet the new students/parents, present how the Dojo operates, sign the release of liability form, size and give the students their uniform (dogi), take pictures of the students, give students their Record of Promotions booklet and answer any questions.  A reminder will be sent to all new students.

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2.5  Why do I have to sign a Release of Liability Form?

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This is a requirement levied by our insurance company for martial arts programs.  Forms are provided during the new student information meeting held the week before the start of a session.   New students will be advised of the date.

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2.6  If I have already submitted my New Student Registration Form, attended a session, how do I register for the next session?

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Returning students only need to submit the short online Returning Student Registration Form;  takes less than a minute to fill out.  This is all that is needed to register for the next session.  Invoices will be issued approximately 3 weeks before the start of a session.

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In light of the large number of students we keep track of, a phone call, voicemail, text or e-mail cannot be used in lieu of filling out the form.  When a form is received, your selected option is automatically logged by our registration system in the order received, leaving no chance for error.

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2.7  What happens if I attended one or more consecutive sessions and decide to skip a session (for example to participate in soccer or baseball during the spring period), but want to rejoin the fall session?

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The Returning Student Registration Form can be used to let us know that you wish to skip a session and return for the following session; your name will then be placed on the student list for that session.

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2.8  As a follow-up to Q&A 2.7 above, why am I placed on a waiting list and not guaranteed a spot for the following session?

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Lets use the example in Q&A 2.7 above: a student attends the fall session (September - December), skips the winter/spring session (February - May) in order to do soccer or baseball and wants to return for the next fall session.  In order to guarantee a spot for that student in the next fall session, we would have to leave a spot vacant in the winter/spring session.  As mentioned in Q&A 1.4, we have a maximum number of students per class.  We also have a waiting list of new students wanting to join.  Leaving a spot vacant means that we deny a new student from joining the winter/spring session because the spot is “reserved” for a returning student for the next fall session.  As well we need to take into account students who will be moving up classes based on age at the beginning of the next session (see Q&A 1.12 above).

 

Taking all the above into account, students cannot:

 

  • Pre-pay to reserve a spot  for a future session.

  • Pay for a current session (and not attend that session) in order to have a spot in the next session.  

 

We have a normal student turnover of 10 to 15% per session.  We do our best to accommodate new and returning students within the student capacity of the Dojo.

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2.9  Do I still need to submit the online Returning Student Registration Form if I don't want to attend the next session nor any future session?

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Yes.   In order to plan for the next session, we need to know which students are returning and which are not.  If we don't receive the form by the deadline, we will automatically assume that you are not returning for the next session nor any future sessions.  Your name will therefore be moved to our past students list and removed from our mailing list; your spot will be assigned to a student on the waiting list.

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2.10  Who handles the Dojo administration and student registrations?

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All the Dojo administration (processing of registrations, invoices/receipts, accounting, documentation, website management, instructor scheduling, restocking, etc.) is handled by volunteer Black Belts outside of the Dojo class hours.  We use the following apps/software:​

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  • Google:  E-mail service (Gmail), calendar and contacts. 

  • MailSuite: Tracking of e-mail correspondence (we receive/send over 5,000 e-mails per year).

  • MyAttendanceTracker:  Student attendance tracking.

  • Wave:  Accounting, issuance of invoices/receipts and student information/record of promotions database.

  • Wix:  Website and processing of student registration forms. 

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3. FEES

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3.1  Why are your student fees much lower than other martial arts clubs?  Are there hidden fees?

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Our fees are very reasonable for three reasons:

  • We are a non-profit organization.

  • All instructors are volunteers (average of 1,000 volunteer hours per session).

  • The Cedar Heights Community Association is a strong supporter of our program.

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Our student session fees are all inclusive and there are no hidden fees:  2 classes per week, membership in the Shorei-Kan Canada Karate Association, a Student Record of Promotions booklet, tests up to and including Brown Belt, new belts/stripes, make-up classes and special events when available.    Separate fees apply for Black Belt testing.

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The only additional costs are:

  • Purchase of a uniform (see Q&A 3.2 below).

  • Purchase of a bo and bo case when promoted to Green Belt (see Q&A 3.6 below).

  • Purchase of a sai, sai case and hakama when promoted to Black Belt.

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Pictures and prices of all items sold at the Dojo can be found here.

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3.2  Where do I purchase a karate uniform?

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We wear white uniforms which are available in all sizes at the Dojo; prices vary by sizeWe carry both regular weight (poly/cotton) and heavyweight (12 oz canvas) uniforms in all sizes.  New students will be sized and given their uniforms during the new student information meeting which is held the week before the start of a session.  New students will be advised of the date.   There is no need to pay for the uniforms at the information meeting.  Students will be invoiced after the meeting.

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3.3  Can I return a uniform (and get a refund) or exchange for a different size after it has been worn?

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No.   Only unworn dogis in their original packaging can be returned and refunded or exchanged.

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3.4  Do you sell second hand uniforms?

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No.  Due to limited storage space, we do not carry second hand uniforms.  Students who have second hand uniforms to sell or give awaycan offer them directly to another student or bring them to one of the local second hand outlets.

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3.5  When do I receive my uniform?

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During the new student orientation meeting (see Q&A 2.4 above).  You will be invoiced separately for the uniform after the meeting.

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Current students can purchase a new  uniform at any time.

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3.6  Do I need to purchase a new bo when I outgrow the one I bought when promoted to Green Belt?

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No.  Bos come in four lenghts: 4', 5', 5.5' and 6'.  A bo should be approximately 3" taller than the student.  The purchase of the bo is a one time cost.  Students will receive their bos during the first week of the session.  When  a student outgrows his/her original bo, a longer bo will be provided at no extra cost.  Subject to availability, bos could be new or used.

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If a bo inadvertently breaks, it will be replaced at no cost.  However, loss or breakage due to carelessness/improper use, will require the purchase of a replacement bo.

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3.7  How do I pay?

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We use the online Wave accounting/invoicing system.  Invoices are sent to your e-mail address (which you provided in your registration form).  Payments can be made by E-transfer (this is the preferred method of payment), credit card (VISA and Mastercard), debit card, cheque and cash.  When you receive your invoice, click on "Review and Pay".  "Pay with credit or debit card" or "How would you like to pay?"  (depending on your device) will show at the top, followed by your invoice:

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  • IF YOU WISH to pay by credit card or debit card, provide the information requested and click on "Pay" or "Credit or debit card" (depending on your device).   You will receive a receipt immediately after the payment has been made.

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  • IF YOU DO NOT WISH to pay by credit card or debit card, and prefer to pay by E-transfer, cheque or cash, take note of the invoice amount and the invoice number, and get out of the window: 

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  • E-transfer: send to shorei.kan.canada.shuswap.dojo@gmail.com                                                                              Include the name of the student and the invoice number in the message.

  • Cheque:  make payable to "Shorei-Kan Shuswap" - see NOTE  below.

  • Cash - see NOTE  below.

  • A receipt will be issued 3 to 4 days after the payment.

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NOTE  (for cheque and cash payments):

 

Place the cheque or cash in a sealed envelope.  Write "KARATE" and the name of student on the envelope.  Bring to the Cedar Heights Social Centre/Dojo and deposit:

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  • During Dojo opening hours:  in the grey drop box attached to the book cart.

  • Outside of Dojo opening hours: in the mail slot located at the bottom right of the Cedar Heights Social Centre main front doors (on the upper level).

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3.8  When will I receive my session invoice and when is payment due?

​

Invoices are sent approximately 3 weeks before the start of a session and payment must be received by the due date which is before the start of the session.   If the invoice has not been paid by the due date, your spot will be allocated to the next student on the waiting list.  Registration for a session is not considered complete until payment is received in full.

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A receipt will then be sent to your e-mail address.

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Once a payment is made, there is no refund (this is also stated on the invoices).  However, if a student withdraws from a session within the first two weeks of the session, the payment can be applied to the next session (upon receipt of the Returning Student Registration Form for the next session).  This carryover is only good for one session and may be applied to any new or returning family member living in the same household.  Should there be  a  session fee increase between the current session and the next session, the student will need to pay the difference.

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Families encountering financial challenges can discuss the situation with the Chief Instructor.

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3.9  Why do I need to pay before the start of a session?

​

There are three key reasons:

 

  • The Dojo incurs many expenses prior to each session (rent, dues to Shorei Kan Canada to cover insurance, restocking of supplies (such as dogis, bos), preparation/printing of documentation, etc).  Those expenses are based on the number of students joining the session.  Additionally, the Dojo has annual and monthly expenses such as website fees, Black Belts dues to Japan, bank account fees, credit/debit card merchant fees, etc.  In order to maintain a positive cash flow,  funds are needed before the start of a session to cover those expenses.

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  • To prevent last minute student cancellations as often experienced in the past (impacting the Dojo financially since expenses had already been incurred), students/parents need to make a financial commitment.

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  • The number of students (and their stripe/belt level) needs to be known prior to the start of a session in order to determine the number of instructors needed and which group they will be assigned to.

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3.10  Do you offer a discount if more than one family member attends a session?

​

Yes.   The first family member pays the regular student session fees. In order to help families, we offer a $10.00 discount for each additional family member.  There are no discounts for equipment (such as dogis, bos, etc).

​

3.11  If I attend only one class a week or I am away for part of the session, can I pay reduced session fees?

​

No.  We have some fixed costs (such as session student dues to the Shorei-Kan Canada Karate Association to cover insurance) for each student attending a session.  This cost is the same whether a student attends the entire or only part of a session. 

​

3.12  Can I pre-pay to reserve a spot for a future session?

​

No.  See Q&A 2.8 for more details.

​

3.12  Do you accept payments from home school and grant organizations?

​

Yes.   The Dojo is recognized as a service provider for home school and grant organizations.  However, the various organizations operate under different rules/procedures for the reimbursement of activities fees:

 

  • Some organizations send the money to the parents; others send the money directly to the Dojo.

  • Some organizations will only pay for classes; others will pay for both classes and equipment (such as bo and uniform).​

​

Before applying for reimbursement, please contact your home school or grant organization to find out what their rules/procedures are.   We will then work with you and the applicable organization to process the necessary documentation.

​

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4. TESTING

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4.1  How many belt levels do you have?

​

We use four belt colours (white, green, brown and black); three levels (stripes) must be achieved on each belt prior to a student being promoted to the next belt.  Once Black Belt is achieved, dan rankings are not displayed on the belt.

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4.2  How often does testing occur and how are my promotions recorded?

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Testing takes place at the end of each session.  Minimum training time between testing is normally 1 session for white belts and 2 sessions for green/brown belts; green/brown belts require additional time to learn the more advanced subjects.   

 

Students considered ready for testing will be informed one to two weeks before the test date.  Testing eligibility requirements are:

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  • Regular class attendance (minimum 75%).  When you enter the Dojo, ensure you check in on the attendance sheets. 

  • Meet the minimum time between tests (see paragraph below).

  • Demonstrate a solid level of competence and understanding of the applicable subjects.

  • Follow the Dojo rules and display proper attitude and behavior.

  • Arrive to class on time.

  • Wear a clean dogi (uniform).

  • Student invoices are paid-up for the session.

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Regular class attendance plays a vital role in a student's karate skills and growth as well as fostering discipline. The Dojo is not just a space to practice karate but it is where students cultivate social skills and develop a sense of responsibility, belonging and commitment.   Since many subjects are performed with partners, students can practice those with their fellow students.   Home practice and the use of the Dojo videos/pictorial sequence of subjects complement (do not replace) regular class attendance.

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Not all students progress at the same rate.  In addition to the above requirements, age, commitment, skill level and prior martial arts experience are all taken into account prior to being invited to test.  If a student has displayed significant progress towards testing readiness, early testing may be considered when recommended by a student's instructor and at the discretion of the Chief Instructor.

 

Promotion dates are recorded in our student database and in the Student Record of Promotions booklets.

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