Learning life lesson through charitable ping-pong exhibition

Jennifer Tesori reported to Historic City News that the youth of St Augustine’s Boys & Girls Club will learn a valuable lesson this Friday on how personal talents can open doors and pave the way to a bright future.

The local Club will sponsor a table tennis exhibition match for its young members on Friday, April 26th; offering them an opportunity to compete against former US National Table Tennis team member, Derek May.

“We hope this showcase event will inspire our youth,” Boys & Girls Club Program Director Beth Lee told reporters. “We have learned that positive role modeling is an invaluable tool.”

Members of the All American Air Charitable Foundation board hold an annual Table Tennis Classic as a fundraising event in St Augustine. This year the Foundation donated $36,000 to local West St Augustine charities — including the Boys & Girls Club. They will be honored as part of Friday’s activities for their support of the Club’s programs, Tesori said.

Christine and Steve Chapman, owners of All American Air, established the foundation to support the many local charities that are in need and depend upon local businesses and donors. “Our desire is to continue to give back to the community we love,” Chapman said.

The All American Air Charitable Foundation board members consist of Christine Chapman, Lauren Abell, Naomi Wilkinson, Linda Meehan, Debby Brownell, DeAnn Collins, Suzette Kowalski, Emily Gordon, Erin Warrell, Erika Metzker and Kara Haeussner.

“These individuals exemplify what we aim to instill in members of the St Augustine Boys & Girls Club,” Lee said. “By example, we want members to know that the future is bright — and by being proactive and making healthy choices, you can become responsible, successful citizens.”