Odayaka joins with Brumbaugh, Sensei to recognize the 30th anniversary of receiving his Shodan.

To mark this occasion, Brumbaugh, Sensei lined up with the kyu ranks, as would a newly promoted Shodan.

Baird, Sensei called class to order and bowed Berg, Shihan dai, onto the mat. She led the formal bow-in and ceremonial class that is reserved for OMAS's first dan promotions.

Below Left: Shihan dai invites Brumbaugh, Sensei to take his place in the dan line. She talks about his contributions to the dojo and the example he sets. Other members of the group then had the opportunity to welcome the "new" Shodan and relate their experiences and thoughts about his importance at, and contributions to the dojo.

Many nice things were said and a lot of appreciation

was extended by students who train

with Brumbaugh, Sensei .

Below:Jo, Lindsey, Holly, Cliff and

Marissa listen intently.

Lest the new Shodan become overly pleased with himself, the next segment of the ceremony helps to keep matters in hand and heads fitting through doors.

Lowest to highest rank, 30 seconds each, with all comers, and he can only BLOCK!!! YIKES!

[There was a lot more laughing than you might think . . . ]

Marissa

Cliff

Holly

Lindsey

Jo

Dan

Carolyn

Bruce

Lynn

As his first official duty as a new Shodan, Brumbaugh, Sensei leads the class in Gekisai, by the count.

[This is so that he might remember how to do it if he ever has to . . . ]

To end the ceremony, Brumbaugh, Sensei bows each students, from highest rank to lowest rank, off the mat.

Domo arigato gozai mashita, Sensei.

Take me home.