UMAC makes its new home on West Street

WARWICK — Since 1995, Ed and Teresa Ciarfella have shared their passion for martial arts with the Warwick community from their location at the ShopRite Plaza. Now, United Martial Arts Centers (UMAC) is relocating to the church at 43 West Street, formerly the Body & Soul Gym.

The grand reopening is Saturday, May 17, and the community is invited. Events will include a masters demonstration, kickboxing seminar, women’s self defense workshop, and a bully proof clinic. There will be a bounce house for the kids and the Teenage Ninja Turtle Leonardo will make an appearance. Special guest Grand Master Byung Min Kim will also be in attendance.

Tickets to the grand re-opening event are $20 and they include one month of kickboxing or martial arts classes. In addition 50 percent of the proceeds will go to the Back Pack Snack Attack to help feed over 300 children in Warwick

The Ciarfellas moved to Warwick in 1985 because they loved the area. They raised their family in Warwick because of the great schools and wonderful community. In 1995, they decided that they wanted to share their passion for martial arts with the community they love. They chose the ShopRite Plaza for their original location and for the past 20 years they have been searching for a home for their Dojang (Korean for Taekwondo School) they could own in Warwick.

Finally their dream has come true when they purchased the 7,200 square foot church on West Street.

“We have a very unique martial arts school which includes an after care program where we transport children from their schools to our location," said Grand Master Edmund Ciarfella. "Homework is our number one priority and we have two full-time certified teachers on staff. We also have a full-day summer camp program from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m."

The new location, allows the Ciarfellas' dream to grow.

"We continue to grow every year and now, with 7,200 square feet, we can stretch our legs," he said. "We love teaching martial arts and are passionate about helping our students reach their full potential in life. We want to give our members and our community an unforgettable place to connect with family and friends to have an amazing martial arts experience.”

The grand re-opening is scheduled for Saturday, May 17, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information, call 845-987-1853 or go to www.umacenters.com.