New Hampshire, nicknamed the Granite State, is a magical land full of dazzling mountains, enchanting forests, and crystal-clear lakes. It’s known for its delicious maple syrup, eye-catching fall foliage, and wild moose roaming freely in the woods. But this isn't all there is to it. The kids of New Hampshire have a secret superpower. They are masters of the ancient art of Jiu Jitsu! Every afternoon, just as the sun yawns its way below the horizon, an extraordinary transformation takes place. Young boys and girls shed their ordinary clothes, slip into their mystical gis, and morph into Jiu Jitsu warriors. Even Tommy, the quiet kid who loves collecting stamps, becomes "Tornado Tommy," a Jiu Jitsu genius who can trap you in an armbar before you can say maple syrup! Their dojo, nestled between the two tallest maple trees in town, is their fortress. Inside, you can hear a symphony of laughter, shouts of encouragement and the thud of bodies gently hitting the tatami mats. Their sensei, a funny, old man named Bernie Bear Belly (because of his big, round, bear-like belly), guides them, his eyes sparkling with wisdom and his belly jiggling with laughter. Bernie teaches them not just the moves, but the spirit of Jiu Jitsu. He always says, "Jiu Jitsu is not about winning or losing, it's about learning and having fun." And boy, do these kids have fun! They tumble, roll, laugh, and learn, their eyes gleaming with determination and their hearts filled with joy. So, if you’re ever in New Hampshire, be sure to look out for these Jiu Jitsu warriors. They're not hard to spot - just listen for the laughter, watch for the flying gis, and look for the dojo between the two tallest maple trees.
Read morebest jiu-jitsu programs in Newington, NH
Camp Med-o-lark is an all genders arts sleep away camp in Washington, Maine for children ages 7–16, set on the shores of a pristine lake. Med-o-lark offers a fully elective program, allowing campers to design their own schedules from a wide range of activities including performing arts, fine arts, sports, circus, waterfront, and more. Each summer, Med-o-larkers come together to build a kind, creative community where everyone has the opportunity to discover, grow, create, learn, and shine. With a strong emphasis on the arts, Med-o-lark offers one of the most extensive programs in dance, fine arts, handcrafts, and theater of any camp in New England.
For more than four decades, Sensei Harry Charache has been a master of martial arts. After graduating from college with a teaching degree, he began his training in Isshin Ryu Karate in 1979 under the tutelage of Joseph Jennings in Rochester, New York. Since then, he has achieved 8th dan Black Belt status, and he has instructed a variety of groups, including 70 local police departments, the National SWAT Team of Ecuador, elementary and middle schoolers in 30 different schools, and the students at his own school for 33 years. Master Stuart Emery also has extensive martial arts experience. He began training in Taekwondo in 1984 under Grand Master Lee, Young Il in Baltimore, MD, and he achieved the rank of 1st dan by 1988. In the years since then, Master Emery has advanced to 4th dan, promoted by Grand Master Choung, Woo Deuk. He continues to share his knowledge with his students today.