Honor Shuji Maruyama's Milestone

Senate Resolution No. 3689 BY: Senator BRESLIN CONGRATULATING Shuji Maruyama upon the occasion of celebrating his 50th Anniversary of introducing Kokikai Aikido instruction to the United States WHEREAS, It is incumbent upon the people of the State of New York to recognize and acknowledge those within our midst who have made significant contributions to the quality of life therein; and WHEREAS, From time to time this Legislative Body takes note of certain extraordinary individuals it wishes to recognize for their valued contributions to the success and progress of society and publicly acknowledge their endeavors which have enhanced the basic humanity among us all; and WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to congratulate Shuji Maruyama upon the occasion of celebrating his 50th Anniversary of introducing Kokikai Aikido instruction to the United States, to be recognized on Saturday, March 10, 2018, at the Nassau Inn, Princeton, New Jersey; and WHEREAS, Shuji Maruyama is the founder of the Kokikai Aikido Federation USA, a martial arts membership organization designed to foster the growth of Kokikai Aikido in the United States; and WHEREAS, The philosophy of Shuji Maruyama and the techniques of Kokikai Aikido promote the peaceful de-escalation and resolution of conflict; if self-defense becomes necessary in a situation, this unique form of Japanese martial arts teaches participants ways to neutralize attacks without harming the attacker; and WHEREAS, Unlike other forms of martial arts, Kokikai Aikido is non-competitive and emphasizes natural movement, ki development, relaxation, good posture and mind-body coordination; and WHEREAS, Under the able leadership of Shuji Maruyama, students work together and learn how to redirect an attack using the attacker's momentum and energy against them; additionally, students are taught to defend against multiple attackers at the same time and how to fall correctly as well as breathing exercises; and WHEREAS, Widely respected and greatly admired for his unremitting dedication and prolific contributions, Shuji Maruyama has been cited on a number of occasions for his distinguished community service; and WHEREAS, In light of his steadfast commitment, dedication and successful efforts, it is the custom of this Legislative Body to extend its highest commendation to Shuji Maruyama; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when individuals of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our attention, they should be celebrated and recognized by all the citizens of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to congratulate Shuji Maruyama upon the occasion of celebrating his 50th Anniversary of introducing Kokikai Aikido instruction to the United States; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Shuji Maruyama.