Grapevine by Alex Vukoder

Allana Perry, a seventh-grader at Revere Middle School, achieved a significant milestone by earning her black belt in karate during a ceremony on April 5. Her karate journey began in second grade, at the recommendation of Andrew Wilson, assistant principal of Bath Elementary, and her teacher Jodi Hetman, who suggested karate to help boost her confidence and improve her focus.

Allana Perry earned her black belt in karate. Photo submitted.

Through five years of dedicated effort, Allana progressed steadily, and attained the coveted black belt after a rigorous 5-hour test on Feb. 25. This comprehensive examination included proficiency in Japanese terminology, kata demonstrations, 20 minutes of continuous fighting and demonstrations of wazas and bunkai fighting techniques.

Allana is thankful to the Zahand family, Hanshi, Doshi Matt, Sensei Tammy and Renshi Christian, whose guidance and support played a key role in her success. She said her motivation to earn her black belt came from the encouragement she received from her fellow dojo members, even during tough times. She also thanked her aunt and uncle Shelley and Derek Faulhaber for their constant support and willingness to drive her to training.

For Allana, earning her black belt signifies the tangible rewards of her perseverance and dedication. She eagerly anticipates the next phase of her training, including the pursuit of her second Dan black belt over the next 1-2 years. Additionally, she looks forward to sharing her journey with her friends Leland and Zaine, who earned their black belts alongside her.

Said Allana, “My hard work was definitely worth it, and I’m excited for the new chapter in my training.”

Congratulations, Allana, on this remarkable achievement!

The Revere Players knocked it out of the park with their production of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s classic, “Cinderella.” It’s fantastic to see such vibrant arts and culture fostered by our community and its talented youth.

The Revere Players put on Rodgers and Hammerstein’s“Cinderella.” Photos submitted.

The pit orchestra accompanied the actors in “Cinderella.”

Sara Pine led as director, supported by Assistant Director Kelsey Brewer-Johnson, Vocal Director Mike Wiley, Artistic Director Robert Pierson andTechnical Director Tom Chiera.Kudos also go to Gianna Kosir and Tessa Kraynak for their roles as student directors. A big shout out goes to the young musicians who played an essential role as members of the pit orchestra, led by Katie Pflueger.Congratulations to all the performers, especially graduating seniors Christopher Anderson, Julia Grandon, Jacob Hermann, Gianna Kosir, Katie Kunkel, Kishan Mendpara, Ty Muehleld, Noah Restivo, Ava Slaby, Josie Tieland, Heidi Tucker, and Shane Yankovitz.

Heartfelt congratulations to all our graduating seniors, and best wishes for your future endeavors!

Recognition also goes to local college students for their academic achievements:

Brant Simmons qualified for Belmont University’s fall 2023 dean’s list.

The following students were named to the Southern New Hampshire University’s fall 2023 president’s list: Brandi Caruthers, Nicholas Oickle, Aria Bubner and Kelli Critchfield.

Catalina Rogers was named to the dean’s list at Slippery Rock University for the fall 2023 semester.

The following John Carroll University students have been named to the fall 2023 College of Arts and Sciences dean’s list: Virginia Hunt and Zoe Walker.

Gage Wimberly was named to the University of Hartford’s president’s list for fall 2023.

I would be delighted to share more stories and join in celebrating your achievements and good news. Please continue to share them with me at avukoder@gmail.com. ∞