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.