Learn a discipline at this dojo and become part of a community
Published at | Updated at
REXBURG — A local dojo offers multiple disciplines, including Brazilian jiu-jitsu, karate and judo. It’s a place where all ages are welcome, and anyone can join and become part of a community.
Mamoru Martial Arts, owned by husband-and-wife team Alexander and Erica Greenfield, has two locations, including Rigby and a newly built state-of-the-art facility that’s on farmland in Burton. It opened over the summer near Burton Elementary School.
“We have a ton of space and really high ceilings. It’s just a great place for the parents to sit and watch. It’s big enough so we can have different sports going on at different times,” Alexander said. “I’m pretty psyched about it.”
The business has been around for six years. It teaches kids starting at 2 and a half years old.
“The oldest person in the dojo is probably 81 years old,” Greenfield said. “We have about 100 students across all the different disciplines.”
Besides Brazilian jiu-jitsu, karate, and judo, there’s also women’s self-defense, fencing, Muay Thai, MMA, wrestling, taekwondo and yoga.
“It’s really been a blessing. We’ve got about 10 instructors throughout. We keep our prices low,” he said. “I don’t want anyone to be priced out. If anyone is ever in a situation where they think they want to do it but they can’t afford it, please have them reach out to us.”
The dojo has given scholarships before. Click here to learn more about the classes, schedules, and prices.
During the day, Greenfield teaches as the head of special ed at Farnsworth Middle School in Rigby. At night, he is actively pursuing his doctorate in educational leadership, while also running a business. He is the founder of Rigby Free Soccer.
He began judo as a kid at 9 years old in New York, where he’s from.
“There’s a very strong Japanese judo community. Our area has sent a lot of people to the Olympics. I trained with many Olympians. One of my senseis was an Olympic coach,” Greenfield said.
He was exposed to several sports growing up and loves judo and Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
“I like that they are aerobic and weight-bearing. As you get older, it’s important for our bone density to do some weight-bearing exercises,” he said. “There’s a lot of camaraderie. You get to know people. It’s so fun. It’s a blast.”
Mamoru Martial Arts started in 2020 when Greenfield said he felt spiritually prompted to return to judo during the COVID-19 pandemic. His dad became his first investor and bought the dojo’s initial mats.
“I think it’s important for people in general to exercise. It’s good for the mind and body. For better or for worse, I think it’s important to know how to protect yourself. I personally think one of the best ways to be able to protect yourself is to be heart healthy,” he added.
“Mamoru” means protector, which, according to the website, reflects the school’s mission to help students build confidence, discipline, and meaningful connections. What began as a pandemic impression has now become a thriving community, Mamoru Martial Arts online says.
“It has been wonderful to meet so many cool people from different walks of life and seeing them socializing with one another, even outside of the dojo. It’s very rewarding. That’s just a really good feeling,” Greenfield said.
Biz Bits
Portneuf Medical Center recognized for high-quality bariatric surgery through Blue Distinction Centers for Bariatric Surgery Program
The following is a news release from Portneuf Medical Center.
POCATELLO — Portneuf Medical Center (PMC) is proud to be recognized by Blue Cross of Idaho with a Blue Distinction Center (BDC) designation under the Blue Distinction Centers for Bariatric Surgery program, which acknowledges PMC’s demonstration of expertise in patient safety and delivery of better outcomes for bariatric patients.
This program focuses on improving outcomes and guides adult and adolescent members to hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers that meet quality and safety standards for common weight-loss procedures, including laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and primary laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.
“This designation is meaningful because it recognizes what matters most to our patients: safe, high-quality care and excellent outcomes,” said Nate Carter, CEO of Portneuf Health. “As a Blue Distinction Center for Bariatric Surgery, we have demonstrated our ability to meet rigorous national standards and deliver exceptional results. For our community, that means greater access to a trusted bariatric program that helps patients achieve lasting weight loss success.”
To receive this designation, facilities must participate in Blue Cross of Idaho’s BlueCard Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) network and must be accredited by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP). MBSAQIP sets rigorous safety and quality standards, requires facilities to track outcomes over time, and confirms the expertise needed to perform weight-loss surgery safely.
By meeting these criteria, Portneuf Medical Center demonstrated a strong commitment to higher-quality care and remains at the forefront of bariatric surgery advancement.
Got 99 problems, but a mojito ain’t one. New refreshing sip hits all Cafe Rio locations
The following is a news release from Cafe Rio.
SALT LAKE CITY — Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican is bringing mo’ mojo to the menu this fall with the launch of its new Blueberry Mojito Mocktail, available beginning Sept. 8 at all Cafe Rio locations nationwide.
Starting at just $2.99, the new non-alcoholic beverage brings together bold blueberry, bright lime and a refreshing touch of mint for a flavorful new way to sip alongside a favorite Cafe Rio meal.
Whether it’s a midday pick-me-up, a refreshing drink to pair with dinner or simply an excuse to try something new, the Blueberry Mojito Mocktail adds a fun new option to Cafe Rio’s beverage lineup. Available at its nearly 150 locations nationwide, the new sip makes it easy for guests to get their mojo going wherever they enjoy Cafe Rio.
“We’re always looking for new ways to layer freshness,” said Mike Burns, chief executive officer of Cafe Rio. “The Blueberry Mojito Mocktail is a fun addition to the lineup and gives our guests another reason to come in, customize their meal and enjoy something they can’t get just anywhere. Plus, day drinking with a mocktail is something everyone can get behind.”
The Blueberry Mojito Mocktail joins Cafe Rio’s lineup of beverages, including its signature horchata and mint limeade. Guests can pair the new drink with Cafe Rio favorites like enchilada-style burritos, bowls, tacos, salads and quesadillas, all made to order with fresh ingredients and customizable to their liking.
In case you missed it:
As health insurance costs soar, Idaho healthcare workers also feel the pinch
Hearing rescheduled for former Portneuf Valley Soccer Club president accused of embezzlement
Idaho gas prices up 7 cents this week
Massive data center with power plant planned for public land in Idaho
Amy’s Kitchen to cut 49 local jobs as company restructures
ISU ‘powering Idaho’s energy future’ with second nuclear reactor
This mobile claw machine arcade is bringing fun and magic to your special event
If you have a Biz Buzz item you want to share, send it to news@eastidahonews.com. Remember to use "Biz Buzz" in the subject line.
Biz Buzz is brought to you by ICCU, the credit union looking after your daily balance. Join today!