Sixteen area students have recently earned promotions in the karate program at Northern Chi Martial Arts Center in Scarborough.

Savannah Belisle, Connor Gervais, Meaghan Martin and Colleen Morehead of Scarborough, and Grace Collomy of Gorham earned the rank of orange belt. Ben Bergeron of Scarborough earned his purple belt. Stephanie Cange and Molly LeComte of Scarborough earned their blue belt. Andrew Correa and Derick Pinkham of Westbrook, and Alyssa Williamson of Scarborough earned their brown belt.

Matthew Morneau of Saco earned his blue-stripe belt. Paul Bayley of Scarborough earned his third degree brown belt. Tyler Fitzpatrick of Westbrook and David Thompson of Scarborough earned their second degree brown belt.

“Advancement in the ranks is an important part of studying the martial arts and at Northern Chi the emphasis is on an individual’s growth and development, ” said Jim DiVirgilio, Northern Chi studio director.

Northern Chi Martial Arts, located at 136 U.S. Route 1 in Scarborough, offers instruction in kenpo karate, t’ai chi, Lil’ Dragons and self-defense.