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Chief Instructor: Steven KaufmannKaufmann Sensei (6th degree blackbelt)has studied the martial art of Aikido extensively with three of Aikido's great teachers: Y. Yamada, Shihan (master teacher), chief instructor of New York Aikikai; M. Kanai, Shihan, chief instructor of New England Aikikai; and T.K. Chiba, Shihan, chief instructor of San Diego Aikikai and head of the USAF, Western Region. These three Aikido masters were uchideshi students of O'Sensei. That is, as young men they lived in the dojo and trained daily with the founder of Aikido. Open Sky Aikikai takes pride in practicing traditional Aikido. Steve Sensei's daily practice includes Aikido, Zen meditation, and Tai Chi. His model of excellence is Morihei Ueshiba, O'Sensei, the founder of Aikido. Steve's interest is in developing great internal awareness and empowerment in himself and his students. Steve's teaching methods clearly communicate to students how to refine themselves through integrating their body, mind, and spirit in Aikido practice. Increased awareness of internal energy improves sensitivity, power, and health. Steve taught grades K-8 as a licenced school teacher for over 10 years in Orange and Chatham Counties, NC and Oakland, CA. He has certification in Learning Disabilities. He was a specialist for Duke University for two years as a Violence Prevention Trainer for 6th grade students and their teachers in Durham, NC. He now teaches aikido and tai chi at Duke University. Steve's favorite pastime is gardening. |
Jason Widener Jason teaches Aikido and Tai Chi at Open Sky. He received his black belt in Aikido in 2006. Jason is a former pro golfer and college coach, and continues to give private lessons. He teaches Tai Chi at UNC Wilmington. His website is www.widenergolf.com. |
Jesse Susan Kaufmann Jesse's teaching experience includes nine years as instructor of children's aikido, ten years as an instructor in children's after-school programs, and six years as humane educator for children at the Animal Protection Society in Chapel Hill. She also taught painting at the Arts Center in Carrboro. She is a 2nd dan and the school administrator. |
Katie Haywood Instructs the Sunday mixed-level class in Hillsborough. Beginners are encouraged to attend her class. Katie has been with Open Sky since our first year. Katie received her 2nd dan in 2006. |
Josh Lozoff Joshua has trained at dojos around the country and began studying under Kaufmann Sensei in 1996 when he returned to the Triangle. He is a 2nd dan. Josh is a magician. His website is deep-magic.com. |
Alex Hamer Alex has been studying martial arts since 1980. Her background is in karate, si-lum kung fu and Filipino modern arnis. Alex received her 3nd dan in Aikido in 2010. She has been practicing with Sensei Kaufmann since 1999. Alex has an orthopedic massage practice in Durham and is an artist. |
Andy Wood Andy is the fukushidoin (teaching rank) at Open Sky. He assists with children's classes and teaches Kids & Adult weapons. He received his 2nd dan in 2009. He teaches & manages adult Aikido on the Carrboro branch staff. Andy owns Wood Construction Co. He has two children who study Aikido at Open Sky. |
Mike Fliss Mike received his Aikido 2nd dan in 2010. He also holds a black belt in Tang Soo Do. Mike is at UNC, CH in a physical therapy masters program.He is active in social justice community organizing and does technology/systems consulting for nonprofits. |
Sarah Kaneko Sarah received her shodan in 2010. She has a Masters of Arts in Teaching from Duke University. Sarah has been awarded a fellowship at Duke this year. |
Jim Roman Jim teaches Aikido at the Carrboro location. Jim has a second degree black belt in Aikido. |
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