Story of the Logo
Original
The original logo was created by Nobusada-Flynn Sensei’s mother using his father Mike Flynn Shihan's vision. The logo shows Alameda as it sits here on The Bay, and how on a clear day Mount Tam is visible from the dojo.
Next Generation Logos
In 2005, the dojo’s chief instructor changed from Mike Flynn Shihan to Elmer Tancinco Sensei 6th dan, Shidoin. The logo evolved to show Alameda as it sits along the bay looking past the waves to Mount Tam on a clear day. The colors changed to represent strength, power and discipline.
The Transition
In 2019, as the new chief instructor, I wanted the logo to reflect my vision for the dojo’s philosophy and future practice. The desire is to continue the legacy of the original design while blending ideas taken from my personal Japanese heritage and the art of Aikido. The new logo incorporates bamboo, wind-blown waves, and the rising sun with a mountain in the background, to represent our motto of Furinkazan. Surrounding the logo are the kanji(furinkazan), and Saku Sen Kan(given name by Chiba Sensei).
Furinkazan
Furinkazan literally translates to Wind, Forest, Fire, Mountain. The logo is taken from the battle cry in The Art of War: "As swift as wind, as gentle as forest, as fierce as fire, as unshakable as mountain." I chose to use this as the motto because I believe furinkazan encompasses all of the essences of martial arts and especially Aikido. In my eyes, I think that if you come from Alameda Aikikai, you must be able to embody all of these elements.
Wind and Waves
In Aikido, you need to be able to move off the line as swiftly and smoothly as the wind in order to not disrupt the energy/attack coming at you. You also need to be able to quickly move with nage, when he/she/they/them are throwing you as uke. Lastly, you must be like a wave crashing down and move fluidly, blending with whatever you encounter.
Forest
I believe you need to practice gentleness in training and respect everyone. Aikido is a peaceful art and you should strive to have compassion and gentleness when training with different partners, as well as in interpersonal conflict outside the dojo. Just like how a bamboo forest is able to bend to the stresses around it.
Fire
I believe you need to train as fiercely as a flame burns. When training with Mike Flynn Shihan and Chiba Shihan you could feel the intensity and passion they had just being on the mat with them. When this fire is lit inside of you, your motivation to practice and grow as a martial artist will become evident.
Mountain
Lastly, you need to be able to be unshakable as a mountain. I refer to the hara you must develop as martial artists. You train yourself to remain centered in all situations. This can also mean to become grounded, humble, and not let your ego get the best of you. All these factors reflect my philosophy and it is my hope that all who enter our dojo will respect these ideals and train to develop all of these attributes.
Saku Sen Kan
This is our given name from T.K. Chiba Shihan, founder of Birankai, and Mike Flynn Shihan’s teacher. After seeing the dojo grow over the years, Chiba Sensei gave this name to Alameda Aikikai with his translation being “Northern Elite School.” We must continue to strive to live up to this name and continue with the rigorous practice that is part of our lineage.