Hawaii’s Own Martial Art

Kempo Karate, also known as American Kenpo, was developed in Hawaii and is still going strong more than 40 years later. Hawaii, home to many martial arts styles developed in Asia, can also boast its very own style. It’s called American Kenpo, and it has karate-chopped its way to the top of the martial arts chopping block.

Alana Folen
Wednesday - March 16, 2011
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Assistant professor Terri Smith with Zak Sakata

ly fit by increasing one’s endurance, strength, muscle tone and mental alertness,” she says. “Through kempo-karate, one develops self-esteem, a positive attitude, courage and confidence in being able to protect yourself.”

And while kempo-karate may be perceived as a mere hobby or sport by some, professors such as Buell and the Smiths believe it serves as much more. Children are taught respect for themselves and others, personal safety, overall obedience in the home and in school, and are motivated to become good citizens within their own community.

“We have been teaching more than 120 kids, seven classes a week,” says Anthony, who also runs Island Pacific Kitchens and Baths, located within the same leased space in Pearl City.

Universal Kempo Karate Schools and Island Pacific Kitchens and Baths LLC seem like two entirely different entities, yet they pair perfectly like yin and yang.


“We are in the process of constructing a separate kitchen and bath design studio - an area separate from the karate training area,” he adds.

As a licensed contractor, Anthony provides interior design and residential remodeling services, and with more than 25 years’ experience, the design studio is set to feature five cabinet lines: Crystal, Huntwood, Hertco, Total Access and Kamaaina Cabinetry.

Yet, even with an ever-expanding kitchen and bath business, the Smiths are determined to keep Universal Kempo Karate running at full speed, catering all lessons to the individual learner.


“Students progress at their own speed and achieve personal goals through advances in belt ranking,” Anthony explains. “Safety is strictly emphasized here.”

For more information on Universal Kempo Karate Schools, call 372-9632 for Aiea Newtown Branch or 487-2686 for Pearl City Highlands Branch, or visit universalkempo.com. Special family, armed forces and law enforcement rates apply.

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