First Lakewood Kensho Dojo Student Earns a Black Belt
In 2010 as part of the Lakewood Township’s gang prevention efforts, Irv Perlman and Bob Goldschlag created Kensho Dojo, 199 Prospect Street, Lakewood, a school funded yearly by Lakewood Community Development Block Grants (CDBG). Now the first student, Samuel Salguero, an adult who has been training with his family since the school was created, was recently promoted to Black Belt.
Kensho Dojo provides training in traditional karate, uniforms, and equipment without charge for students. All instructors are black belts who volunteer their time and expertise to serve the community.
Bob Goldschlag said, “One of our primary aims is to teach respect for yourself and others, self-control, and the benefits of hard work. Hence the name ‘Kensho’ which means ‘spirit of enlightenment’.”
Senator Robert Singer, 30th Legislative District, said, ““I want to congratulate Samuel on his accomplishment and applaud his efforts.”
Lakewood Mayor Ray Coles said, “What an accomplishment! We are all so proud of Sam.”
Students primarily are from low and moderate income families from Lakewood’s Hispanic community. “We are somewhat unique because of the extensive involvement of the family: youth and their fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters and cousins train side by side. Sam began taking classes along with his wife, daughter and son,” noted Goldschlag.
Classes are held Tuesdays and Saturdays at 199 Prospect Street in space provided without charge by RWJ Barnabas. Anyone interested in training or for more information, contact Sensei Bob Goldschlag at 908 770-4971 or e-mail bobgoldschlag@gmail.com
About Training Schedule: Tuesday classes are reserved for White Belts (beginners, age 7 and up) from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m.; Green and Purple Belts train from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Also, on Tuesday a special class, not open to new students, is geared for students who are training to compete and/or demonstrate. Saturday classes are from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. for advanced students (Brown Belts and Black Belts); White Belts train at 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 and Green and Purple Belts from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.