Maplewood Karate's new studio on Valley Street was abuzz with activity as they held their grand opening Saturday afternoon, December 11.  Students of different degrees demonstrated their abilities today as Vice Mayor Kathy Leventhal and Jerry Ryan of the Maplewood Township Committee were on hand for the ribbon cutting.

Louis Toledo, owner, started his martial arts training in 1975 and holds multiple black belt degrees. He was there today, along with his wife Ellen and nine-year-old daughter Jessica. Toledo began teaching at the Maplewood Civic House and will continue to run a low-cost community program beginning in January for students from age 8 and up.

Also at the studio today was Joe Barnett, black belt instructor as well as many Maplewood Karate students ranging in age from 9-14. They demonstrated their sparring ability as they held matches for guests who stopped by the studio today.

Students wore belts varying in colors, but almost all had a blue stripe on their belt.  A blue strip is added when students donate food to a food drive held at the location or do something for the community. Toledo believes in "paying it forward" and encourages his students to do the same.

For more information on classes and schedules visit maplewoodkarate.net.