[Sensei]

Hello everyone,

I specifically want to take time to address all of our helpers-- black belts, assistants, parents and all of those who help make our program a success.

I really appreciate all that you do. We are blessed to have several martial artists who donate an hour or more of time a week to give back to the martial arts, and most do so without pay.

This year's holiday dinner will be simple. We'll meet for a meal to celebrate the holidays and our program and hopefully have a few laughs and some good conversation.

I've made a decision that in the future I will hold a more specific SWAT appreciation event. All of my helpers really are important to me, and I need you to know that. However, money this year is really tight, and I simply don't have the funds to do the plethora of gifts I've done in the past.

I hope you understand. I make sure our adult black belt instructors are well compensated for their time, but I usually like to show extra appreciation for them and all of our other helpers. Last month, I spent $500 to rent out the laser tag facility in Chicago just for our group. That trip was a blast! But even with fundraising, the bill took a mighty chunk out of the funds. I hope you remember that gift as part of my appreciation for all of you.

So please understand that our dinner will be simple but enjoyable . . . and for those of you looking forward to more material rewards, they will come Just not yet... I'm thinking a SWAT appreciation event would be possible in February or March.

I hope to see all of you out next Thursday at the China Village Buffet in East Peoria.