Several local children were among the students at Master Charles Water's Hwang Karate Studio who received belt promotions after successfully completing a series of extensive exams.

The students were evaluated on their physical skill as well as the character discipline required of the martial arts.

"Our goal at Hwang Karate is to facilitate mental growth enabling our students to reach their hightest potential as human beings," said Charles Water, owner and director of the school. "Our studio teaches students how to defend themselves responsibly while instilling self-confidence, self-discipline and respect for others."

Students receiving belt promotions are:

From Mineola: Peter Bertuccio to green belt; Anthony Conway to orange belt one stripe; Roy Salsinha to orange belt one stripe.

From Albertson: Andrew Cohen to green belt; Nikhil Iyer to red belt one stripe; Justin Mazza to green belt two stripes; James Weynand to red belt.

From Williston Park: Brian Langone to green belt two stripes.

From East Williston: Vinny Manno to green belt one stripe.