By CHRIS AGEE
Venue 2:17, a new local hangout for teens, opened to a large an energetic crowd last month, according to owner Brenda Stewart.
"It was an awesome opening," she said, adding the turnout "went over and beyond my expectations."
The 2,200-square-foot building at 212 S.E. 1st Ave. can accommodate twice the number of youth as the venue's former location in Weatherford. Stewart is optimistic that extra space will soon be filled with even more young people looking for a safe place to have fun.
She said the support of local churches and civic groups has been a major factor in the club's early success in this community.
"I am a little overwhelmed with the unity of the people here in Mineral Wells," she said, adding she feels "the youth, the parents and the churches are all in agreement."
The club, which is not affiliated with any church or denomination, has already gotten support from area youth groups, Stewart noted.
"Churches such as Family Faith Fellowship, Rock Creek, and Northside of Mineral Wells were there and excited about the opportunity to reach the youth and build new relationships," she said.
Stewart said she looks forward to forging even more relationships with other area businesses and groups, explaining she recently joined the Mineral Wells Area Chamber of Commerce.
In addition to live music, free admission allows attendees access to video games, air hockey, pool tables and foosball.
"Everyone there was grateful and amazed with the way the place turned out and what God was doing," Stewart added. She noted about 100 teens showed up for the venue's grand opening weekend.
Concessions are available on site and the club is open each Friday and Saturday from 7 to 10 p.m.
For more information, visit venue217.org
Raw: Texas Deputy Shot by Colo. Suspect Honored
Major Detours Following Wash. Bridge Collapse
American Held in Grisly Czech Murders
Raw: Jersey Shore Reopens for Summer
UK-bound Pakistan Plane Diverted, 2 Men Arrested
Officials: Tsarnaev Friend Linked to Slaying
Obama:Sexual Assault Threatens Trust in Military
Bridge Collapse Survivor: 'Rough Day'
Jersey Shore Open for Business
Raw: Memorial Day Flags Placed at Arlington
New Wheelchair Lift Promises More Access
First Person: Mom Discusses Famous Tornado Photo
Raw Video: Washington State Bridge Collapse
Boy Scouts Approve Plan to Accept Gay Boys
Officials: Truck Hit Bridge Before Collapse
Sheriff: No Sign Killing of 2 Kids Was Planned
Obama Defends Drone Strikes, With Limits
Raw: Jurors Deadlock on Jodi Arias Penalty
Boy Scouts Decision "First Step" Say Activists
Raw: Utah Teen Arrested in Death of His Brothers
