A memorial to Sensei Tedone was held at the Dojo on February 28, 2008 to commemorate the life and Aikido of Sensei Tedone. Aikidoist and friends gathered to celebrate her love of Aikido holding a class that featured her favorite koyku-nage techniques. Class was taught by her father Ralph Chiaradia Sensei. Before students began practicing each technique he shared many found memories of Joanna's 44 years of Aikido. It was a joyous celebration of her life and spirit.

Sensei Tedone began her aikido career in 1964 at the age of 9. She went with her father to many training sessions in NY and Boston, and week long Aikido camps around the country. We were officially recognized as a dojo in 1965. Without Joanna's enthusiasm for Aikido and the joy we shared in spending time together, our dojo would not exist today. She was precious to all of us who got to know her.

 

 

Our dojo gathered to honor Sensei Joanna.