It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Grandmaster Helio Gracie. The 95 year old patriarch of the Gracie family passed quietly in his home in the district of Itaipava in the mountains above Rio de Janeiro.

Condolences are sent to Grandmaster's wife, Vera, sons and dauthters, Rorion, Relson, Rickson, Rolker, Royler, Royce, Rherica, Robin, Ric, and all of the extended Gracie family.

The martial arts world has lost a very important and influential Master Teacher. The lives of millions of people around the world have been affected by Grandmaster Helio Gracie and his lifelong passion for the martial arts, his dedication to his family, and for the example he set as a human being.

I hope 2009 is starting great for you and that you are well on your way to making great things happen this year. Each and every day we get to start again and make the most of the 24 hours we are provided. We only have 50 weeks left of this year, so let's not waste one of them.

If you have not seen Nick Vujicic (pronounced "Voy-chick") yet, please watch this short video. Even if you are familiar with Nick, watch this video to be inspired again. There are a number of clips of him on the internet, and this 5 minute clip is one I really like. It includes "Finish Strong." (I also like this clip with the Korean in it because of the time I've spent in Korea) Nick illustrates a true warrior spirit.




I taught my little girl at a very young age to reply to the question, "Why do we fall down?" to answer with "Get Back Up." Yes, I got that from the Batman movie. Well, Nick is a real hero. So remember, when life hits you with challenges, face them. When you fall, GET BACK UP. Dig down for the warrior spirit inside in everything you do.

Love Life. Make Each Day Count. Make Great Things Happen. Finish Strong!

Alain

Aiki Productions hopes your 2009 is starting out great! We are excited about some of our plans for 2009 and hope you are too. We will be releasing some Kicking DVDs with Shawn Kovacich and are looking at some additonal projects as well. And yes, we know we still have to finish the Lock On series. Things happened in 2008 and we did not get volumes 4 and 5 out, but will work on them soon. We also have a Tai Chi DVD in the works as well as some audio programs. Stay tuned for more DVDs and other interesting posts to help you with your martial art training.

Wishing you much health and prosperity for 2009!