I would like to make a public Thank You to Sensei Jon Willson, who
may not be a karate "master" but has put in so much effort into
karate and specifically the dojo in Santa Cruz throughout the years
and in his special way has inspired many through his tireless
dedication and wonderful personality. He is truly a great leader-by-
example and fantastic person. We can all learn something from him.

Even though Mr Willson has moved away, he still helps make sure his
karate "family" in Santa Cruz will continue to have a place where
people feel they are learning, developing and among friends.

I have known Jon W since I moved to Santa Cruz in 1989. During
times when others were teaching, he has been a great student,
helping however he could. During times that he was the teacher, he
has helped guide students, no matter if it was a class of 20
students or just 1. And he has never stopped developing his own
karate through his persistent quest for knowledge and abilities.
Now, he is training at a new dojo. I am sure when he visits in the
future he will have some fresh insights into training that could be
of value to others. I look forward to his visits back here and in
visiting him on my future vacations to San Diego.

Some of you may not be aware of Mr Willson's past & present medical
condition. No need to go into detail. But to say that he has
overcome some obstacles in life is quite an understatement. And he
has done it with a smile on his face.

Please join me in extending a special THANK YOU to Sensei Jon
Willson, karate student & instructor, life-guide and inspiring,
warm, caring, humorous human being.

Jon Keeling
PS- I don't mean to completely ignore Kai here. He has also been a
key part of the development of the UCSC dojo the past few years.
Actually, I was just thinking of him when I read in the news that
tomorrow is "International Talk Like a Pirate Day"!