“Harmony in the Hills”, the USA Aikido Association’s annual fall camp was held on September 25, 26, and 27, 2009 in St. Albans, West Virginia.  Instruction was given by Kyoshi Kevin Blok, 8th Dan Aikido, and Shihan Roger Jarrett, 6th Dan Aikido.  Students from all over the eastern United States and Canada attended the event.  Training was given in traditional Aikido, Aikido weapons, as well as a special Iaido class conducted by Shihan Jarrett.

Black Belt tests and promotions were also given.  Frank Tucker and Joe Sovine of the St. Albans dojo were promoted to Nidan.  A very special presentation was made by Kyoshi Blok and Shihan Jarrett as they promoted Sensei Bill King and Sensei Mike Jacobs to Godan in Aikido and awarded them the teaching license of Shihan Dai. 

This makes Sensei Bill King and Sensei Mike Jacobs along with Sensei Van Bushnell, who was promoted to Godan last year, Shihan Jarrett’s most senior ranking Aikido students.  All three are regional directors for the USA Martial Arts Federation.