It is with a heavy heart that I write you today with some very sad news. Sensei Norman Smith's eldest son, Jahmare Smith, was tragically killed last Thursday in a shooting in Virginia.
Our sincere sympathies go out to Sensei and his family during this extremely difficult time. No words can express how sad, tragic and senseless this is.
The
funeral service is at F.E. Dabney Funeral Home, 600 B Street, Ashland VA 23005.
The viewing will be on Thursday, September 8th, 2011. The church
service and burial ceremony will be on Friday, September 9th, 2011 at Jerusalem
Baptist Church in Dolsworth VA.
Since many of us at the dojo will not be able to attend the funeral, we are planning a ceremony with the students (and parents) for Sensei and his family at the dojo on Saturday, September 17th at 11AM. Please speak to Senpai Miguel or myself for more details. All students (and parents) are encouraged to attend.
Please keep Sensei Norman and his family in your thoughts and prayers.
Senpai Paul Cortissoz
