Fathers and daughters pause for a photo during the annual father-daughter event hosted by the Putnam County Challenge Club. (Photo courtesy of Putnam County Challenge Club)

The daughters and their dads or special guests came dressed in their country attire that included some cowboy hats and boots with spurs.

The event included a dinner and a talk by Precious Blood Father Mark Hoying, pastor of Kalida St. Michael. He emphasized the important roles that fathers play in their families and in their communities. He spoke about the many virtues needed in raising daughters such as trust, patience, recognizing God’s love in everyday life, and the importance of having fun together, to name just a few. He addressed the young ladies on these same traits as well.

The evening closed as the guests celebrated the gift of their relationship given to them by God with square dancing and line dancing led by Elaine Wehri.

In addition, Challenge Team Leaders (high school girls) were honored for the time they volunteer to teach and form young girls to follow Christ and to practice charity. Prizes were awarded for several game winners, and best dressed went to Jade and her father, Greg Zeller.

One lasting thought for all fathers and father figures: Let your daughter see the qualities in you that you want her to see in a husband someday.

Putnam County Challenge meets most Fridays at 3:30 p.m. during the school year and is open to fifth- through 10th-grade grade girls in Putnam County. For more information, contact Connie at 523-6956 or Jill at 532-2511.