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Hundreds of weeks of steady, disciplined practice, training and studying – physically and mentally – over the past four years resulted in two members of the Selma Karate Academy earning their Cho Dan, their first degree Black Belt on Dec. 18.
Sam Thames and Lincoln Jones earned the coveted Black Belt, after completing tests in Tang Soo Do moves, as well as a written test and essay.
“I am so proud of Sam and Lincoln for reaching this level in martial arts,” said Sister Kathy Navarra, S.S.J., a Sunim Sa Bom Nim, Fifth Degree black belt master who also coordinates the after-school ACT program for the Edmundite Missions.
“They worked hard and are an inspiration to their classmates to keep going.”
Hundreds of weeks of steady, disciplined practice, training and studying – physically and mentally – over the past four years resulted in two members of the Selma Karate Academy earning their Cho Dan, their first degree Black Belt on Dec. 18.
Thames and Jones passed through 10 levels of achievement before reaching their goal, beginning with a white belt, then earning yellow, orange, orange with a stripe, green, green with stripe, brown, brown with stripe, red and deep blue.
Selma Karate Academy is part of the Atlantic Pacific Tang Soo Do Federation and Foundation, which provides some funds for students who cannot afford karate. It teaches more than self defense; it also emphasizes discipline, respect, self control and focus, Navarra said.
“We teach values like humility, integrity, concentration, respect, obedience which go back thousands of years. All are vital to living an honorable life,” she said.
Thames, who works at the Downtowner, said he has been interested in martial arts since he was a child. He began studying three years ago after finding Navarra’s class. The Selma native served in the military, assigned to 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood, Texas.
Jones, a student at R.B. Hudson, has attended the twice-weekly karate classes with his father, Keith, for over four years.
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It is with a heavy heart that we announce Cornerstone Martial Arts and Leadership Academy (CMALA) has decided to step down from the Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do Federation. As a result of this decision, the scheduled Break-a-thon for September 20th has been canceled, and the third annual board break-a-thon will not take place this year.
We are truly saddened to see Cornerstone Martial Arts leave our federation. Over the years, their dedication and enthusiasm have contributed greatly to our shared mission of empowering students and supporting at-risk youth through martial arts. The annual board breakathon, in particular, has been a highlight—bringing our community together and raising vital funds for scholarships and programs that make a real difference.
While we are disappointed by the cancellation of this year’s event, we remain committed to our mission. We will be looking for new opportunities to invite other schools within the federation to host board breakathons, kickathons, or other creative fundraising events in the future. These events are not only a testament to the strength and discipline that martial arts fosters, but also a meaningful way to give back and support those in need.
We thank Cornerstone Martial Arts and Leadership Academy for their years of partnership and wish them continued success in their journey. To our community, stay tuned for updates on future events and ways you can continue to support the Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do Foundation’s mission.
Together, we will keep breaking barriers and building a brighter future for all.
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We are thrilled to announce that the 2025 International Championship Silent Auction was a tremendous success, raising more than $1,200 to support the Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do Foundation’s mission!
This year’s auction was filled with excitement and friendly competition as participants bid on a variety of unique and meaningful items. One of the highlights was the opportunity to win a private class with several of our Masters. We are delighted to share that multiple Masters and instructors generously offered their time for 30- or 60-minute private Zoom lessons, and these experiences were highly sought after by our community. Congratulations to all the winning bidders who will soon enjoy personalized martial arts instruction from some of the best in our federation!
Another standout item was the beautiful coin display case, featuring metal coins from all previous championship events. This one-of-a-kind collector’s piece was handcrafted by none other than Master Harmon, adding even more significance and artistry to this special item. The display drew enthusiastic bids throughout the evening, and we are pleased to announce that Master Estrada was the proud winner of this remarkable display.
The success of this silent auction is a testament to the generosity and spirit of our community. Every dollar raised will go directly toward supporting scholarships and programs for at-risk youth, helping us continue to make a positive impact through martial arts.
Thank you to everyone who participated, donated, and supported this year’s silent auction. Your involvement makes a real difference, and we look forward to even more exciting events and opportunities in the future!
Stay tuned for updates on upcoming fundraisers and ways you can continue to support the Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do Foundation. Together, we are building a stronger, more empowered community—one bid at a time! Joomla Gallery makes it better. Balbooa.com
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A Heartfelt Thank You to Gourmetgiftbaskets.com for Supporting the Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do Foundation
We are delighted to announce that Gourmetgiftbaskets.com has generously donated a $25 gift certificate to the Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do Foundation. This wonderful gift will be featured as a raffle item at the upcoming International Karate Championship, as well as part of the silent auction.
Their support helps us continue our mission of providing scholarships to at-risk youth, giving them the opportunity to experience the life-changing benefits of Tang Soo Do martial arts training. Through the generosity of partners like Gourmetgiftbaskets.com, we can reach more young people in need, helping to build their confidence, discipline, and leadership skills.
All of us at the Atlantic-Pacific Tang Soo Do Foundation extend our deepest gratitude to Gourmetgiftbaskets.com for their kind contribution. It is through the support of businesses and individuals like them that we can continue making a positive impact in our communities.
Thank you, Gourmetgiftbaskets.com, for being a valued partner in empowering the next generation!
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Joomla Gallery makes it better. Balbooa.com
More Articles …
- Help Us Empower At-Risk Youth Through Martial Arts: Support Our GoFundMe Campaign!
- Support the Upcoming International Karate Championship: Donate to Our Silent Auction and Raffle!
- Upcoming International Karate Championship: Join Us for an Exciting Event!
- A Heartfelt Thank You to the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
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