Nassau County Legislator Viviana L. Russell (D-Westbury) joined the grand opening celebration for the Ortiz Academy in Westbury on June 27. The day was filled with the traditional Lion Dance, blessings, and live demonstrations.
Russell presented the owner of the studio, eighth-generation Seven Star Mantis Kung Fu Grandmaster Raul Ortiz, Jr., a Nassau County Legislature Citation in honor of the momentous occasion.
When asked what the goal of martial arts is, Sifu Ortiz responded, “Besides learning self-defense, we concentrate also in having a healthy lifestyle. Our goal is to turn men, women, and children into the best version of themselves. To be better every day than we were yesterday.”
“Raul’s life story is a shining example of how martial arts can empower our youth to rise above challenges in their lives and embrace a rewarding path that uplifts themselves and others,” Russell said. “I am so grateful to have been invited to celebrate this milestone, and I wish everyone at the Ortiz Academy many years of success and fulfillment serving the Westbury community!”