Along with adding a recreational activity for local teens through its Youth Night, Bogalusa Grill and Event Center, which opened June 22, features a restaurant and a large hall that can be rented out for various occasions.

Owned by Bogalusa natives Doyle and Lori Creel, the nearly 13,000 square foot facility is located at 1900 Plum St. In choosing to open a business in the city, Doyle Creel said he and his wife “were just trying to help with the growth of the economy of Bogalusa.”

The business’s first Youth Night, which is planned as a weekly event, was held Friday. Youth Night, Doyle Creel said, will take place each Friday from 6 p.m. until midnight. Anyone age 12 to 17 is invited to attend, at a cost of $5 per person.

The intention of the event is to give area youth “something to do,” Lori Creel said. Youth Night will feature “a DJ, a light show, food and fun,” she said. There will be an arcade too, her husband added.

The restaurant portion of the business features a hot buffet lunch from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. each Monday through Friday, with the possibility of the hours being expanded, Doyle Creel said.

Additionally, Bogalusa Grill and Event Center boasts a hall, complete with a stage, that is available for rental for occasions such as birthday parties, weddings and family reunions, Lori Creel said.

Doyle Creel said he is pleased with the customer response, which is “picking up daily,” and wanted to express his appreciation to the community for its support.

For more information, call Bogalusa Grill at 241-5058.