"SERVING UP THE HOLIDAYS" FUNDRAISER FEATURING JAMES BLAKE
Fourth Annual Event Benefits The Harlem Junior Tennis And Education Program
Patrick McEnroe, Thomas Blake, Justin Gimelstob, Honorable David Dinkins to Attend
New York, N.Y., November 18, 2008 -- On November 25, 2008, The Harlem Junior Tennis and Education Program (HJTEP) will host its fourth annual "Serving Up The Holidays" fundraiser at the Harlem Armory. This important event brings together tennis greats, local celebrities, corporate donors, and tennis enthusiasts to raise funds and awareness for the HJTEP. Program alumni James Blake and Thomas Blake will be joined by other special guests including the Honorable David Dinkins, Patrick McEnroe, Justin Gimelstob, Gail Brodsky, Kristie Ahn and others.
The fourth annual "Serving Up The Holidays" fundraiser is a vital component of the HJTEP's continuing efforts to assist underprivileged youth. For the past three years this event has been a tremendous success, and the HJTEP hopes to surpass previous fundraising results to further enhance its education strategy and programming outreach.
"I have always supported HJTEP because it is a very important part of a society to have options for places where kids can go to get off the streets," said James Blake, a long-time supporter of this annual event due to his belief in what HJTEP offers. "It can teach them the value of hard work and make them citizens that will give back and will make positive strides as they get older. This program combines the two things in life that I'm the most passionate about, tennis and education."
"Some young people will come to play well enough to become pros like James Blake...others will learn to play well enough to earn college scholarships," said Mayor Dinkins. "But, at HJTEP, our main interest is in helping every young person to develop the strong body, strong mind and strong character necessary to be a truly successful adult."
About the event:
The event includes a junior clinic for both HJTEP and non-HJTEP participants at 4:00 PM, a cocktail reception, sponsored by Alize and Brasserie Les Halles, including a live silent auction at 5:30 PM, followed by a tennis exhibition at 7:30 PM.
The reception will allow the attendees to meet and greet celebrities, network, and enjoy music from the Renaissance E.M.S. (Education, Music and Sports) program. Artwork by Alonso Adams will adorn the space. The silent auction will include premium items such as autographed player memorabilia, US Open box seats, restaurant gift certificates, and resort and spa packages.
Adult tickets range from $100 to $300. To order tickets, learn more about the "Serving Up The Holidays" fundraiser, or the Harlem Junior Tennis and Education Program, please call 212.491.3738, email info@harlemjuniortennis.net or visit www.harlemjuniortennis.org
About Harlem Junior Tennis and Education Program:
The Harlem Junior Tennis and Education Program (HJTEP) is a not-for-profit organization that offers free tennis lessons. Our goal is to make tennis a part of a child's development, which includes success in school, and leading them to a high education. We are here to point them toward a well-rounded, productive, adult life.
