Students at JFK Martial Arts in Mandeville,

Covington and Baton Rouge came together to participate in their annual Black Belt Candle Lighting Ceremony.  The event took place in Mandeville on December 17.  More than 20 black belts ranging in age from 8-adult attended.  Having attained a new rank this year, the students lit their candle from their instructors.  The lighting of their candle signifies the passing of martial arts’ knowledge.

The goal of any martial artist whether a preschool age, karate for kid or adult, is to attain their black belt.  The rank signifies the mastery of basic level self defense skills as well as life skills such as discipline, courage and respect. This year’s ceremony market a few firsts: Ms. Reina Dicks became the first JFK Martial Arts’ student to promote to 5th Degree Black Belt as well as Mr. Andrew Beaujeaux, owner of the JFK Martial Ars Mandeville and co-founder of JFK Martial Arts became the first 6th Degree.