Phoenix Dojo Gala to Honor Resilience and the Rebuild of Gerry Blanck's Martial Arts Studio Destroyed in the Palisades Fire

Martial arts student Eden Savion and Gerry Blanck, owner of Gerry Blanck's Yoshukai Karate studio in the Pacific Palisades

Santa Monica, California, USA. 17th May, 2025. A powerful story of resilience and community spirit took center stage at the Phoenix Dojo Gala held on Saturday, May 17th at the Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites in Santa Monica, California. The fundraising event was focused on supporting the rebuild of Gerry Blanck’s renowned Yoshukai Karate studio, which was tragically destroyed in the Palisades Fire. The fire devastated the Pacific Palisades area, displacing 180 students and their families, and reducing the beloved martial arts dojo to ashes. For over four decades, the studio has served as a cornerstone of the community, offering not just martial arts training but a safe haven for youth and families.

Actor/businessman Peter Madrigal

Organized by Gerry Blanck’s Martial Arts Foundation, the gala commemorated the dojo’s 43-year legacy while raising critical funds for its restoration. The event also sought to expand community programming, including scholarships for martial arts students and sponsorship of local health and wellness initiatives. Titled “From Fire to Future,” the evening celebrated the achievements of the dojo’s elite athletes, who recently earned accolades at major national karate competitions. Guests enjoyed dinner, live entertainment, silent and live auctions, awards presentations, and appearances by special guests.

Music artist Kendra Erika

Music artists Mason & Julez

The event was hosted by Peter Madrigal (Vanderpump Rules) and featured performances by Kendra Erika, a Billboard Top Ten music artist, and Mason & Julez, an Australian pop-country duo. The evening was produced by Diamond Media, with Sandra Costa Architectural Design & Build serving as associate producer, and actress Christina Fulton, CEO of Immortal Beauty Inc., chairman of the host committee. The Los Angeles Beverly Arts (LABA) was one of the many sponsors for the event with TV host Joey Zhou, founder of LABA, attending the event.

Gerry Blanck, owner of Yoshukai Karate studio, Sandra Costa, architectural designer, and TV host Joey Zhou, founder of LABA

TV host Joey Zhou, founder of LABA points to his name

“This isn’t just about bricks and mortar,” said Gerry Blanck, a two-time world champion in kickboxing and karate. “This dojo has always been a safe place, a second home for many families. We’re determined to rise from the ashes—stronger, together.” All proceeds from the event are going directly toward rebuilding the studio and providing support for the affected families.

Martial art students, parents, and event organizers with Gerry Blanck (center)

The Beverly Arts News is sponsored by MDSUN, Cynthia Clarté, En Guangzhi Art Studio, and The Beverly Arts Foundation