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Chief Instructor Steve Cianelli, Sensei

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Cianelli, Sensei began his martial arts journey in 1988 at Temple University, where he trained in Shotokan Karate under Teruyuki Okazaki, Sensei until 1989. In 1992, he transitioned to studying USA GoJu, guided by Senseis John Austino Sr. and Jr., ultimately achieving the rank of 6th degree.

In 2017, Cianelli, Sensei began an inspiring new chapter under the mentorship of L Luis Morales, Hanshi of KenshiKai Okinawan GoJu Ryu Karate Jutsu Kobu-Jutsu Association.. His dedication and hard work paid off in 2019 when he was officially welcomed as a student and Branch Dojo. By June 2022, he earned the title of 7th Dan in Okinawa GoJu Ryu and also achieved the rank of 7th Dan in Ryukyu Hokama Kobu-jutsu under the esteemed direction of Hanshi Luis Morales. Cianelli, Sensei is passionate about continuous learning and growth, traveling to Okinawa in 2018, 2023, and 2025 for training at the Honbu dojo in Nishiara. There, he had the honor of receiving instruction from Hokama, Sensei in both empty hand techniques and kobudo. Additionally he serves as the Executive Secretary to Hanshi Luis Morales for the North America KenshiKai Organization.

In 2018 he was accepted as a member of the Seiryukan Kokusai Budo Rengokai and was presented with a certificate of membership (#0011) by Sensei Ron Nix.

In addition to his martial arts pursuits, Cianelli, Sensei is an long standing active member of the United Martial Arts Referees Association, where he serves as Executive and Recording Secretary and is also an Executive Board member of the Tiger Family Iaido Association. He holds a certification as a UMARA Class “A” Referee and has gained recognition as an outstanding competitor in U.M.A.R.A. for Forms, Weapons, and Sparring from 1996 to present.

Cianelli, Sensei is also a dedicated professional outside the dojo. He graduated from Temple University School of Engineering with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and has made significant contributions to the design of power plants and substations. Currently, he serves as a Program Manager for a New Jersey architecture and engineering firm, overseeing multidiscipline engineering projects for various power utilities across the country.

 

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Addionally, Sensei Cianelli is a dedicated and experienced practitioner of White Crane Chi Kung and Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan, having studied directly under the esteemed Grandmaster S. L. Martin  since 1996. His profound journey into the martial arts began long before. As a master level instructor at the Green Dragon headquarters school, Sensei Cianelli plays a vital role in nurturing the next generation of martial artists. He is also an active member of the Green Dragon Demo Team and the prestigious Green Dragon Chinese Martial Arts School International Exhibition Team. His commitment to martial arts has taken him far beyond the classroom; he has had the honor of accompanying Grandmaster S. L. Martin on eight trips to Taiwan, Republic of China, as well as travels to Japan in 2014 and South Korea in 2019. In recognition of his hard work and dedication, Sensei Cianelli was promoted to Black Sash in the White Crane Chi Kung System of Taiwan in November 2007 under the guidance of Grandmaster S. L. Martin. A decade later, in November 2017, he was awarded the esteemed title of Tai Shih 大師 (Master) in Taiwan Hung System White Crane Chi Kung, reflecting his mastery and commitment to the art. Sensei Cianelli’s passion for martial arts and his extensive experience continue to inspire students and peers alike.

Tsuru Ki Black Belts

Michael DiTaranto, Ni Dan

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Sensei DiTaranto began his journey in GoJu Ryu martial arts in 2012. Under the guidance of Cianelli Sensei, he has dedicated himself to mastering this art form. His commitment and skill were recognized in April 2018 when he was promoted to Sho Dan, a significant achievement in his training. In addition to his personal practice, Sensei DiTaranto was an active top competitor in the United Martial Arts Referees Association League, showcasing his skills and dedication in competitions. He is now has a "B" Level Referee certification, further contributing to the martial arts community through officiating. Sensei DiTaranto continues to inspire and lead others through his passion for GoJu Ryu and commitment to excellence.

 

Barbara Anne Gardenhire-Mills, Ni Dan

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Sensei Gardenhire-Mills embarked on her martial arts journey in 1991, initially training in Shotokan and Tae Kwon Do while attending Rowan University (formerly Glassboro State College). Her dedication to martial arts led her to begin training in Goju Ryu at Tsuru Ki Martial Arts under Sensei Cianelli in 2011. Since then, she has consistently studied under him and earned the rank of Sho Dan in March 2019. In addition to her martial arts expertise, she contributes to the United Martial Arts Referees Association as a “B” Level Referee.

Professionally, Ms. Gardenhire-Mills is a seasoned leader in community relations, program management, and professional development, boasting extensive experience across government, nonprofit, and private sectors. Currently, she serves as the Director of Compliance & Engagement for the Cooperative Business Assistance Corporation (CBAC), recognized as one of the top ten “mission-based” lending organizations in the United States, as identified by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

Her previous roles include serving as one of the 14 federal liaisons for the White House Promise Zone Initiative during both the Obama and Trump administrations. Additionally, she has held leadership positions in various nonprofit organizations and the insurance industry. Ms. Gardenhire-Mills also worked directly and as a subcontractor for several federal, state, and local government administrations, and has been appointed to two national and three state task forces.

Her exceptional work has garnered presidential recognition in both 2000 and 2010, and in 2016, she was honored as the “Women’s Advocate of the Year” by the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) South Jersey Chapter.

A distinguished academic, Ms. Gardenhire-Mills graduated first in her class from Rowan University in 1992, earning her Bachelor of Science in Political Science with Honors, along with concentrations in Pre-Law/Constitutional Law and Women’s Studies, as well as two academic achievement awards. She continued to pursue her education through numerous career-related certificate programs and fulfilled a personal promise by earning her Master of Science in Executive Leadership from Champlain College in 2017.

 

Adrienne Cianelli, NI Dan

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Sensei Adrienne Cianelli embarked on her martial arts journey in 1992. After taking a significant break from training, she rekindled her passion in 2011 by focusing on Goju Ryu. Under the guidance of Cianelli Sensei, she dedicated herself to mastering the art. Her perseverance and commitment culminated in March 2021 when she earned the rank of Sho Dan.

 

Patricia Phillips, Ni Dan

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Sensei Patricia Phillips embarked on her martial arts journey in 2011 at the remarkable age of 63. Driven by passion and determination, she quickly became an integral part of her dojo, inspiring others with her dedication. In March of 2021, at the age of 73, she reached a significant milestone by testing for and successfully earning the rank of Sho Dan. Her achievements serve as a powerful reminder that age is merely a number, demonstrating that it’s never too late to pursue one's dreams and excel in new challenges. Sensei Patricia continues to motivate students of all ages, showing that with perseverance and commitment, anything is possible.

 

Joseph Mills, Sho Dan

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Sensei Joseph-Mills began his journey in martial arts in 2011, training under the esteemed Cianelli Sensei. With a dedication to his craft and consistent study under Cianelli Sensei, he achieved the rank of Sho Dan in June 2020. In addition to his foundational training, Sensei Joseph-Mills practices Hokama Ryukyu Kobudo and Iaido, studying under the Tiger Family Iaido Association. His commitment to martial arts continues to deepen as he explores the intricacies of these disciplines, embodying the spirit of a lifelong learner.  

 

Ricky Raymond, Sho Dan

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Ricky Raymond began his martial arts journey at the age of 5. He is a dedicated student of the martial arts, a scholar, and a genuinely excellent young adult. His dedication over 14 years of training, from a young child to a young adult, has been an unforgettable journey. He was well aware that, in our school, we do not promote children to the Black Belt level. Black is something you earn through hard work, dedication, and a maturity level that is demonstrated, which shows you are capable of carrying the true weight of the Black Belt. Ricky trained every day, and upon reaching adulthood, he demonstrated that maturity. He has learned the basics of the empty-hand system and kobudo, opening more doors and allowing the true learning process to begin. Very similar to his college endeavors, where he graduated from High school at the top of his class with honors and is now in college pursuing a degree in education with an emphasis on mathematics. He is one of those we term the 1 in 10,000 students who become true teachers.

 

Jared Pearce, Sho Dan

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Jared Pearce is a truly remarkable man and an active-duty US Marine. His journey began like any dedicated parent, enrolling his talented son in a martial arts school. After a few weeks of observing classes, he came to the dojo one day and simply stated, “I’m in,” marking the start of his new path. 

With an unwavering determination, Jared has proven himself to be a force of inspiration amongst his fellow students. His commitment to excellence drives him to master every aspect of the system, from the foundational basics to the advanced techniques of Kata, Tuide, Kyusho, Atemi, and Kobudo. 

Jared’s journey is just beginning, with countless opportunities ahead to explore and learn. His dedication and passion make him a role model for all within the dojo, embodying the spirit of perseverance and growth.

 

Christopher Styskal, Sho Dan

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Christopher Styskal commenced his journey in martial arts in 2017. Since then, he has demonstrated unwavering dedication and commitment to his training. His hard work culminated in a significant achievement when he was promoted to Sho Dan in September 2023. Christopher continues to train diligently, embodying the values of discipline and perseverance inherent in martial arts. His journey reflects not only personal growth but also a deep commitment to the martial arts community.

 

Bianca Cianelli, Sho Dan

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Mrs. Cianelli has been passionately involved in martial arts since November 2000, when she began her training in the GoJu Ryu style under the guidance of Master John Austino Jr. at Austino's Karate. Over the years, she has consistently demonstrated her commitment to the art, becoming a top-rated competitor in UMARA across weapons, forms, and sparring categories.

 In 2011, her martial arts journey took a significant turn as she began training under the direct instruction of Sensei Cianelli with the opening of the Tsuru Ki dojo. That same year, she attained the Junior Instructor level, allowing her to assist her father in teaching the art she loves. Additionally, she is an adept student of Chi Kung White Crane, further enriching her martial arts experience under her father's expertise.

 Ms. Cianelli is also a proud member of the renowned Green Dragon Chinese Martial Arts School International Exhibition Team. Her dedication to martial arts has afforded her remarkable opportunities, including accompanying Grandmaster S. L. Martin on six memorable trips to Taiwan, R.O.C. since 2004, as well as traveling to Japan in 2014.

 In June 2014, Ms. Cianelli achieved a significant milestone in her martial arts career by earning the rank of Sho Dan, which is the 1st Degree Black Belt. Her commitment to excellence and her passion for teaching continue to inspire those around her, solidifying her presence within the martial arts community.

 

Lisa Peterson, Ni Dan [Not Active]

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Sensei Peterson began her journey in martial arts training in 1988 at the Okinawan Karate Institute in Totowa, NJ, where she studied Shorin Ryu Shorinkan. She was a dedicated student of Kyoshi Robert B. Herten until 2008, achieving the rank of Yondan. During this time, Kyoshi Herten was known for his expertise, having trained under Hanshi Shuguro Nakazato in Naha, Okinawa, while serving in the Air Force until the early 1990s and later becoming a student of Hanshi Seikichi Iha in Lansing, MI.

In 2013, Sensei Peterson expanded her training by becoming a student of AJ LaForte and Rob McFee at the Fredericton Karate Dojo. Both men are prominent students of Hanshi Ken Tallack, known for his Meitoku-ha Goju Ryu in Ontario, Canada, as well as Renshi Greg McKenna, associated with Okinawan Goju Ryu in Prince Edward Island, Canada. Sensei Peterson had the privilege of training at the Fredericton Karate Dojo for approximately one year before returning to her home state of New Jersey.

Upon relocating to the Mount Laurel area of NJ, she continued her martial arts education by studying under Cianelli, Sensei of Tsuru Ki.. In April 2018, she received a promotion to Ni Dan from Cianelli, Sensei, marking her continued dedication and growth in the martial arts.

 

Brock Sherman, Sho Dan [Not Active]

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Brock Sherman embarked on his journey in martial arts in 2018 after a diligent search for a school that offered authentic and traditional training. Under the expert guidance of Cianelli Sensei, Brock committed himself to consistent practice, displaying notable progress and dedication throughout his training. This commitment culminated in a significant achievement when he was promoted to Sho Dan in September 2023.

An athletic individual, Brock is recognized for his dedication and ability to learn rapidly, traits that benefit him not only in martial arts but also in various other endeavors. During his high school years, he excelled in baseball, gaining recognition as a top pitching prospect, which serves as a testament to his competitive spirit and determination.

Beyond his athletic pursuits, Brock is deeply family-oriented. He actively supports his grandparents, reflecting his values of loyalty and community engagement.

In his professional life, Brock works as an electrical technician for Amazon, where he applies his technical skills and strong work ethic to contribute effectively to his team. He continues to balance his professional responsibilities with his passion for martial arts and his commitment to family, embodying a well-rounded and dedicated individual.

Harman Ransi, Sho Dan [Not Active]

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Harman Ransi began his journey in the martial arts by training in GoJu Ryu in 2012. Under the expert guidance of Cianelli Sensei, he has dedicated himself to consistent study and practice, which culminated in his promotion to Sho Dan in March 2019.

As a passionate and skilled martial artist, Sensei Ransi distinguished himself as an active top competitor, earning the title of Triple Crown Winner in the United Martial Arts Referees Association League. In addition to his competitive accomplishments, he holds the certification of a "B" level referee, demonstrating his deep commitment to the sport.

Beyond his martial arts endeavors, Mr. Ransi has also excelled academically. He studied computer science at Rowen University, graduating with honors. He is now on the path of pursuing a career in the computer field, blending his love for technology with his dedication to lifelong learning.

Harman Ransi embodies the spirit of perseverance and determination, both in the dojo and beyond.

 

Mike Sian, Ni Dan (Spectrum Fitness, Minot ND)

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Mr. Sian began his karate training Kenpo Karate in 1984, at age 11, training under Master Sung Hwan Cho, eventually earning a 3rd Dan in 2007. From 1993 – 1995, he studied North American Tae Kwon Do under Sensei Tom Ziedlik while stationed in Grand Forks, ND, earning his 1st Dan. In 2003 he began training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, attaining the rank of purple belt in 2010 under Professor Gianni Bertazzon. Mr. Sian was promoted to the rank of Ni Dan, 2nd Degree Black Belt in Goju Ryu Karate under Master Stefano Cianelli in May 2016.

Mr. Sian is a 23 year veteran of active duty service with the Army and Air Force. He has served as a Military Policemen, Security Forces member, and Special Agent with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI). He is a certified Advanced Military/Law Enforcement Krav Maga Instructor with Krav Maga Worldwide, an Intercept – Stabilize –Resolve (ISR) Field Instructor (ISR Matrix), and holds a basic certification in Pressure Point Control Tactics (PPCT TM). He is the former Krav Maga hand to hand combat instructor for the AFOSI Anti-terrorism Specialty Team, San Antonio, TX.

Mr. Sian has instructed Federal/State/Local Law Enforcement Seminars, AF Explosive Ordinance Disposal personnel, AF Emergency Services Teams, AF Special Response Teams and has taught in both the U.S. and overseas (during combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan).

 

Mr. Sian has extensive experience in Protective Service Operations. He has also worked on the protective service details for multiple four star generals and foreign dignitaries in Europe, Afghanistan and Iraq.  He is an Intercept-Stabilize-Resolve (ISR) Field Instructor, certified Advanced Military/Law Enforcement Krav Maga Instructor with Krav Maga Worldwide, and holds a basic certification in Pressure Point Control Tactics (PPCT TM).

Mr. Sian has taught defensive tactics to multiple law enforcement agencies (local, state and federal) in Georgia, Texas, North Dakota, California, and Italy. In addition, he was a senior defensive tactics instructor for the Office of Special Investigations Antiterrorism Specialty Team from 2003-2006, teaching hand to hand combat to Special Agents deploying in support of high intensity, austere environment combat operations in Iraq, Afghanistan and Africa theaters of operations.

1381, Suite B, Route 38, Hainesport, New Jersey 08036

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