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Dojo Relocation by Benjamin Pincus Sensei Chief Instructor, Aikido of Champlain Valley When will we move dojo? Hopefully this article will clarify our plans for relocation. We need a larger space due to our expanding membership body, and higher ceilings for weapons practice. Unfortunately, negotiations on the purchase of the former Garment Vault building on Shelburne Road didn't work out. We needed major amounts of money to bring an already expensive building up to code. I don't think that the negotiations were a failure, despite investing a significant amount of time (over a year!) and some personal finances as well. I survived a Zoning Board of Adjusters meeting and learned a great deal about the lengthy process of building purchase. I never expected that part of learning budo would involve business negotiation, but I suppose the martial way is all about interconnection... The length building search has clarified my dreams for Aikido of Champlain Valley, and my determination to see this vision fulfilled. My priority is to relocate to dojo, but most importantly, I am also committed to maintain a high level of aikido training for myself and for my students. I believe that the rental or purchase of a larger space will only enhance our practice. I would like to outline an abridged "wish list" for our future space: 2000+ sq. ft. mat and viewing area (4x larger than current) showers and kitchen/living quarters convenient and safe parking large lounge area and play space for children central location (in the Burlington area) outdoor training area and Japanese gardens A larger place would allow us to host large seminars (100+), public demonstrations for aikido and conflict resolution workshops, and provide plenty of room for weapons and empty hands practice. It would also allow me to expand the children's aikido program significantly. I am happy that our dojo continues to grow. I can see it in a student's intense practice in preparation for a test, in the nascent green of the gingko bonsai in the window, and in the condensation in the windows from exuberant training. I wish to thank all of my students for teaching me so much, and believing in the value of traditional aikido practice. Don't get lazy! See you on the mat.