AAKS Families,
For more than 40 years, our business has been a proud, multi-generational establishment rooted in the City of Corona. This city is not just where the karate school is based, but where I was born and raised, am raising my family, and have built a strong community. The Lipari and Varela families are well known throughout Corona's history. Despite our longstanding presence and contributions, we are now facing significant challenges due to the city's revitalization plan, which threatens our ability to continue operating here.
Although we have approached negotiations with the city in good faith, we have not received the same consideration in return. The city has failed to offer any financial assistance in a timely manner to help us during this difficult transition. The support we have received most is a few leads for possible relocation spots; unfortunately, most of these locations are beyond our financial means, have no parking, or do not meet today's building codes. To make matters worse, city officials have even encouraged us to move our business out of Corona altogether.
We have made it clear to both City staff and the Council that we cannot afford many of the proposed relocation options and that our preference is to remain in Corona. Despite this, we have been informed that our business will be closed as part of the revitalization plan. There has been no offer of compensation, even though the city has provided significant financial incentives to other businesses who have moved on. Now, it is our understanding that they are proposing to pay new businesses, which have no prior ties to our city, to move into the South Mall. This inconsistent treatment has left us feeling frustrated and unsupported.
Given the city's unwillingness to uphold their end of the bargain, Sensei Mike and I will be attending the upcoming City Council meeting to speak on behalf of our business and the broader Karate Community.
We invite anyone who wishes to support us and have their voice heard to join us at the Council Meeting. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October 1, at 6:00 p.m. at Corona City Hall (400 S Main St, Corona, CA 92882). At the meeting, you can fill out a speaker card to sign up and have three minutes to share your opinion. The more people who attend, the greater the impact we can have. Let's unite and show the Council how much the school means to our community.
Sincerely,
Nicole Lipari
Head Instructor
Events
Friday, October 3:
Belt promotions
Sunday, October 5:
Farewell Potluck at the dojo.
From 1:00 to 3:00 pm, join us all at the karate school for an afternoon full of food and games. A sign-up sheet is available at the front desk.