United Martial Arts Center has a new home

WARWICK — On Friday, May 16, Town of Warwick Supervisor Michael Sweeton, Village of Warwick Mayor Michael Newhard and members of the Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors joined Ed and Teresa Ciarfella, their daughter and staff for the grand opening of the new location of their United Martial Arts Center.

The ribbon cutting ceremony was held on the main floor of the center's spacious 7,200-square foot building at 43 West Street in the village.

The historic church building was formerly home to Body & Soul Gym and offers locker room and shower facilities, a lounge, observation balcony, a meditation room and more.

The Ciarfellas moved to Warwick in 1985. Their martial arts center has been in the ShopRite Plaza for the past 20 years until they found a home for their Dojang (Korean for Taekwondo School) they could own in Warwick.

"We continue to grow every year and, now with 7,200 square feet, we can stretch our legs," said Ciarfella, a Grand Master with a seventh degree black belt. "We love teaching martial arts and are passionate about helping our students reach their full potential in life."

The United Martial Arts Center offers an after care program where children are transported from their schools to the center.

"Homework is our number one priority," said Ciarfella, "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. 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."

For additional information, visit www.umacenters.com or email umac50@optonline.net.