Lehighton's Mountain Karate Academy received two awards last weekend at the Eastern USA International Martial Arts Association's convention in Pittsburgh.

The association includes membership in over 56 countries.Master Paul Maglionico was presented with the "Pinnacle of Success" award. Master Paul has been in the Martial Arts since he was 5-years-old, earning his black belt at the age of 12. He is now, at the age of 24, a fourth degree black belt, and partner in the karate school.Instructor Rich Maglionico was inducted into the Black Belt Hall of Fame, receiving the "Instructor of the Year" award for 2009. Rich is also a partner in Mountain Karate Academy.Mountain Karate Academy will be doing a demonstration during the Dream Come True telethon at Penns Peak tomorrow. The Academy held their third annual Kick for a Cause kick-a-thon this past September, raising over $2,700 for the charity this year. Their total fundraising for the past three years has reached $10,000, and because of this they will be receiving the Dream Maker Award during the telethon.Mountain Karate Academy offers one free month to anyone interested in trying karate or learning more about the art. It offers Korean Martial Arts, with additional training in Judo, Hapkido, Weapons, and women's self defense. Starting in January, monthly seminars on stranger danger awareness, children's safety, and dealing with bullying will be offered. These seminars will be offered free to the public.The Academy focuses on building good character, self-esteem, confidence, balance, and exceptional physical fitness in all their students. They offer classes for ages 3-adult. Their website is

www.mountainkarate.com