Students at the Long Island Shotokan Karate Dojo in West Hempstead participated in a kick-a-thon recently and exceeded their goal of raising $5500 for children at St. Judes Children's Hospital. Owners Charles Macolino, Gerard DiCanio and Walter Garcia led and inspired their students in the fundraiser that collected money from their sponsors.

The school teaches the shotokan style of karate, promoting physical and emotional growth through discipline, respect, and pride in the individual and their school. One lesson instilled in the students is to give to those who are less fortunate.

Generous donations of refreshments for the students and their parents came from Wendy's of West Hempstead, McDonalds of West Hempstead, Dunkin Donuts of West Hempstead, Sapienza Bakery of Elmont and Starbucks of Mineola. County Executive Thomas Gulotta and Legislator Vincent Muscarella were also present to root on the students' 2000 karate kicks and presented Shotokan Karate with a certificate.