SHELBY — The Music Academy of Karate & Empowerment (M.A.K.E.) hosted its highly anticipated annual Summer Camp and Promotion Day, bringing together students, instructors, families, and the broader community for a weekend of skill, discipline, and celebration.
The highlight: four young students earned their black belts, Master Instructor Reneta Music received the esteemed title of Renshi, and long-time instructor Amber Bogner was awarded her 5th dan in Shurite Kempo.
The two-day event began Friday evening at M.A.K.E.’s Shelby location, where students pitched tents and prepared for a night of camaraderie and learning. The evening featured a dynamic sword seminar led by a visiting instructor from Findlay, complete with live sword demonstrations and water bottle-cutting practice — a thrilling and memorable experience for students of all ages.
As storms rolled in overnight, older students took initiative to safely relocate younger campers indoors. Saturday morning kicked off with breakfast donated by parents, followed by a session of Qigong by the pond led by Grandmaster Mike Molinero.
Grandmaster Gary Music then gave a talk on the history and philosophy of Shurite Kempo, which was followed by continued instruction from Grandmaster Molinero.
At 1 p.m., the public Promotion Day began. Students demonstrated their proficiency in forms (katas), sparring, and leadership. For four young men — Adrian Potts (grandson of Grandmaster Gary and Master Instructor Reneta Music), Adam Mandour, Omari Mandour, and Theo Flanders — this day marked the culmination of years of dedication as they each earned their black belts.
“Summer Camp is the only time of year we promote to black belt,” said Sensei Reneta Music. “These boys, ages 8 to 10, met every single requirement, from mastering 13 katas by name and number, to teaching, to sparring and life protection drills. They earned this, and we are incredibly proud of them.”
In addition to the student promotions, Master Instructor Reneta Music was honored with the title of Renshi (錬士), a Japanese martial arts designation meaning “polished teacher” or “refined warrior.” The title recognizes her deep dedication to the teachings and methodology of Shurite Kempo and traditional karate.
Another milestone was reached when Amber Bogner, after 13 years of diligent training and teaching, earned her 5th dan in Shurite Kempo.
“She is the backbone for teaching in our school,” said Music. “I rely on her, and without her, I would struggle.”
The day concluded with a catered dinner provided by DLX Catering and Event Center, bringing families together in celebration of the students’ hard work and the academy’s growth.
M.A.K.E. extends its heartfelt thanks to the sponsors who helped make this event possible:
- DLX Catering and Event Center
- Phillips Family Foundation
- Warren Rupp
- Cleveland Financial Group – Charles Hahn, CFP
- And generous private donors
To learn more about M.A.K.E.’s programs or support its mission, visit www.musickarate.org or call 419-405-5711.
About the Music Academy of Karate & Empowerment (M.A.K.E.):
M.A.K.E. is a nonprofit martial arts school rooted in the values of perseverance, integrity, courtesy, and community. Offering traditional Japanese/Okinawan karate and Shurite Kempo, as well as strength training and self-protection for students of all ages and abilities, M.A.K.E. prioritizes inclusivity and empowerment. No student is ever turned away due to financial hardship.