SHELBY — The Music Academy of Karate and Empowerment recently had its first public fundraiser.
At this event, the school also had its annual black belt promotion during which three students were promoted to first-degree jr. black belt. Along with promoting the black belts, there was a promotion for que ranks.
The school has a history of black belts testing only once a year at the annual karate camp. The karate camp has evolved into a three-day event during which students are invited to put up a tent and spend two nights at the home of Sensei Reneta and Grandmaster Gary Music.
Students receive breakfast and lunch for two days and a dinner is provided on Saturday night. This dinner is also attended by the family and friends of the students. The camp begins at 6 p.m. on Friday and ends at noon on Sunday. This is the 12th year of the camp.
During the camp, the students are taught by instructors who align with the values of the school. They are also taught by Grandmaster Music and Grandmaster Mike Molinaro of Little Falls, N.Y.
In the past, guest instructors have included Sensei Kevin Cullin from Findlay, who taught the students a Sanchin kata and The “Karate Kid” kata. This year, Sensei James Zellner from Findlay brought bokkens (wooden swords) to teach the students. They also had an opportunity to use a sword to cut a water bottle in half that was secured to a stand.
There were three major sponsors of this year’s camp: Phillips Family Foundation, DLX/Dan Lew Exchange, and Phillips Animal Hospital. Other organizations and private citizens also donated to the school for karate camp.
Promoted to Jr. First Degree Black Belt were Blake Schwartz, Timothy Elias and Sol Phillips.
Emerie Detillion and Jackson Medley were chosen Students of the Month for August.
The Music Academy of Karate and Empowerment is a nonprofit academy whose purpose is to enrich the lives of all people through the discipline of traditional karate. There are openings for students starting at age 6.
Classes are currently on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday nights with the beginner class starting at 5 p.m. Adult classes are offered on those evenings at 7 p.m. Class tuition is $55 per month with scholarships available for those who qualify.
The mission of the Music Academy of Karate and Empowerment is to make available to any person the opportunity to be empowered through traditional karate, self-protection, and strength training.
Currently, classes are offered at 3814 Bowman St. Road in Shelby.
For more information, contact Sensei Reneta Music at 419-405-5711