AT THE EVENT — Among local performers who were part of the Ohio Valley Youth Network’s recent benefit dinner were, from left, Madeline Nelson, Therese Nelson, Jacqueline Shea, Gemma Nelson, Maisie Leonard, Christina Westlake, Frankie Russell, Hannah Mergen and Celia Mergen. -- Contributed

STEUBENVILLE — Nearly 300 people attended the Ohio Valley Youth Network benefit dinner held Feb. 22 at First Westminster Presbyterian Church in Steubenville, an evening of special music and awards.

The network generated $10,250 in donations, and thanks to matching gifts, totaled $16,250 to benefit the Ohio Valley Youth Network programming and help renovate the Sycamore Youth and Community Center, according to Bobbyjon Bauman, president of the OVYN.

Located in downtown Steubenville in what formerly housed Sycamore Tree Church, the center will provide free programming for youth in the arts, music and athletics beginning Sept. 1.

A number of area youth performed at the event, and a ministry update was overviewed by Bauman.

Two-time cancer survivor and Indian Creek High School senior Leia Hunt was a featured speaker along with Kim Weaver of the Weirton Christian Center.

Bauman presented special awards recognizing Courtnie Bube and Dustin Calhoun as Student FCA Leaders of the Year. Both are seniors at the Jefferson County Joint Vocational School and co-leaders of its Fellowship of Christian Athletes for the past two years.

Kayla Mosti was honored as the Adult FCA Leader of the Year at Toronto Middle School. She is a huddle leader for the middle school FCA at Toronto Jr./Sr. High School, where she teaches sixth-grade math and reading.