Energy abounded and spirits were high Saturday night at The Loft’s “Community Western Night” square-dance in Stryker. People of all ages could be found on the dance floor kicking up their heels and swinging their partners around.
A ministry of Youth for Christ, the youth center holds weekly bible studies on Mondays and a dance every 1st and 3rd Friday of each month for students, grades 7-12, from 8-11pm. During basketball season home games, they also hold “5th quarter” dances from 9-11pm. This was the first time they had organized a dance for the whole community.
Since the program is free to the students, the youth center depends on the financial support of local businesses, fundraisers, the community and its members, surrounding churches, and the Stryker Rotary Club, as well as many other contributors.
Grateful for the support of the surrounding community, The Loft’s steering committee said, “This event gives us a chance to say think you to the community for the way they generously support the program.” It also gives the family members of the students a chance to get involved and see what opportunities are available for the local youth.
Some other upcoming community events, open to all ages, include the magic and comedy of Christian entertainer Terry Michael Owens at The Loft on Friday, November 14 at 7pm and an “All Guys’ Night” on Friday, November 21. They will be busing the men to The Iron Shop in Ridgeville Corners for human-size foosball, Ping-Pong, a BB gun range, and other manly games.
For more information on these and upcoming events, or to find out more about The Loft, visit their Facebook page or call Kathy Frank at 419-346-2348. Any donations to the program can be made to Patti Rosebrook, the Branch Manager at Farmers & Merchants State Bank in Stryker.