Tehachapi News

Kicking for charity

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From the East coast to the West coast, across the country martial arts students participated in National Martial Arts Day.  Locally, Tehachapi Martial Arts Center (TMAC) joined in the national fundraiser. Hopeful Tomorrow is a national organization which raises funds for at risk children in the community.

The eighth-annual National Martial Arts Day was held on Oct. 17. At exactly 10 A.M. across the country, students began a kick a thon to raise funds, for an entire hour students kicked nonstop. TMAC raised $733.00 and tallied 28,900 kicks.

The event also included a barbeque lunch and raffle with donations from local businesses. A special thank you to Natures Pantry, Quiznos, Albertsons, Edelweiss Deli, ‘Hachapi Tees and Jadric Ranch Nursery.

After a well deserved break from the kick a thon was a demonstration showcasing the different disciplinary arts taught at TMAC including TaeKwonDo, Hapkido, Kung Fu and Tai Chi. The students were energetic, confident and disciplined.

Master Ivan Jadric conducted the demonstration with opening and closing ceremonies discussing the importance of community and compassion, to train for our bodies and our hearts. “It’s not just kicks and punches; it’s a lifestyle of finding a way to be better everyday…” In the closing ceremony, Tehachapi Martial Arts Center was recognized and honored by dignitaries including Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and Kern County Supervisor Don Maben. National Martial Arts Day is an annual event, come join TMAC next year for an exciting day and to help children in the community.