And now for something a little different. It seems the new First Family in the White House are keen table tennis players and recently purchased a STIGA table:

Obama Purchases Stiga(R) Table Tennis Table

NEW YORK, June 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Shouts of "Yes, We Can!" will undoubtedly reverberate from the White House walls as President Obama, his family and their friends engage in spirited matches on the family's new table tennis table.

The Obama purchase is the most recent piece of "stimulus" the sporting goods industry has received from the popular resurgence of table tennis. Once the staple of church basements and family rec. rooms, table tennis has emerged as the latest craze of the entertainment community. The game's coolness factor was solidified by its appearance in an episode of "Entourage" during the show's most recent season. Hollywood Table Tennis enthusiasts include Edward Norton, Matthew Broderick and rap star 50 Cent. Actress Susan Sarandon is so passionate about the game she is a backer of SPiNYC, a "swanky" members-only table tennis club.

A personal purchase by President Obama, the Obamas selected a Tournament Series Table Tennis Model from Stiga for the White House. With its tournament-grade top and heavy duty chassis, the table is designed for aggressive play and family fun, which are the qualities the Obamas were looking for in a table tennis table.

"We are proud that the President and his family selected a Stiga table for the White House. Table Tennis is the perfect way for a busy executive like the President to spend quality time with his friends and family," said Nick Martin, product manager Stiga. "With its fast pace, the game requires total concentration. And, because it can be played by people of varying skill levels, it is a great family game." As a fitness oriented family, table tennis is a natural activity for the Obamas," continued Martin. "The game is often called the "brain game" because it gives players a mental and aerobic work-out. It is also a great way for children and adults alike to improve their hand/eye coordination."

While the White House and Hollywood are leading the Table Tennis trend, the current economic downturn may also be a contributing factor in the game's current popularity. "For many Baby Boomers, Table Tennis may symbolize the happier, more care-free times in their lives," continued Martin. "And, in lean times, it is an economic and fun activity for the whole family."About Stiga(R)
Stiga(R) table tennis tables and equipment are sold in over 100 countries worldwide and used by the world's leading table tennis players. Stiga(R) products are known for innovation, style, design and playability. Stiga(R) ... Play The Best.(R)