07-08-2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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Port Columbus Hosts ACE Youth Camp

COLUMBUS – This week’s ACE Camp kicks off a yearlong commitment to introduce 34 African American youth ages 12-17 to the numerous careers in aviation.

The Empowering Youth to Win Aviation Career Education (ACE) Academy is a collaboration between the City of Refuge Point of Impact and Buckeye Tigers, which is the local affiliate of the national Organization of Black Airline Pilots. The academy is designed to be a comprehensive program addressing educational, social, developmental and financial resources management needs of the students by focusing on mentoring, leadership development and internships.

This week’s ACE Camp, hosted by the Columbus Regional Airport Authority, includes aviation/aeronautics education, lunch with Tuskegee Airmen, a fieldtrip to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, a behind-the-scenes tour of Port Columbus and NetJets, sessions on leadership skills such as self discipline and conflict resolution, presentations by the Transportation Security Administration, local leaders and African-American pilots, and much more. The week will conclude with flights for the students provided by The Ohio State University Airport.

“Central Ohio youth will be exposed to the myriad of career and business opportunities available within the aviation industry,” said YoLanda Lewis, Executive Director of City of Refuge Point of Impact. The organization’s mission is to empower disadvantaged and at-risk individuals to improve their economic, education and social status by creating and promoting opportunities for affordable housing, education, health care and employment.

MEDIA AVAILABILITY: Friday, July 10 12:00-3:00 p.m. The Ohio State University Airport 2160 West Case Rd. ACE Academy organizers available for interviews Contact Cathy Ferrari, OSU Airport (614) 292-5823

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