In recognition of Veterans Day, we will not be gathering at the 1st Church for programming tomorrow, November 11. Stay tuned for future updates for the holiday season schedule.
Thanks all for your continued support!
Category: Uncategorized
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No PKG on 11/11
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Weekly Update 6/16
Hello Phoenix Knights supporters,
Summer is approaching! And that means a change in the Phoenix Knights schedule and our end-of-year PKG Solstice Celebration!
Please join us!!
Phoenix Knights End of Year Potluck and Solstice Celebration!
Friday, June 20th from 4pm-7pm
Steamboat Landing Park
**BYO a dish to share, or snacks, or drinks… or just yourselves!**
Get to know your Phoenix Knights family,
Grab a foam weapon,
and join in the
Live Action Combat Tournament!
Hope to see you there!!
And here are the rest of the updates for this week, including our Summer Break and New Summertime Schedule:
1. SCHEDULE for next week:
Monday 6/16: First Baptist Church (95 High St, Belfast)
Ages 7 – 11yrs 2:30pm-5:30pm
Tuesday 6/17 and Thursday 6/19: First Church in Belfast (8 Court St, Belfast)
Ages 12 – 18yrs 2:30-6pm
**Please enter through the Parish House doors facing Court St.**
Programming will be held in the Parlor on the ground floor:
Enter through the doors and go straight down the hall
Second door on the left.
Friday 6/20: Phoenix Knights End of Year Potluck and Solstice Celebration!
Friday, June 20th from 4pm-7pm
Steamboat Landing Park
All are welcome!
2. SUMMER BREAK – PKG WILL BE CLOSED FOR 2 WEEKS
**Phoenix Knights will be CLOSED from Monday, June 23rd through Sunday, July 6th
Programming will begin again on Monday, July 7th
3. SUMMERTIME SCHEDULE
We’re planning an awesome PKG Summer!
Summer Hours will officially begin on Monday, July 7th.
We’re planning to hold Live Action Combaton Wednesdays in the summertime!
More info coming soon!
4. GRATITUDE
We received $6,890.40 from the Belfast Community Co-op through the Common Cents program.
THANK YOU for rounding up and supporting local businesses!!
And THANK YOU to all of our donors! We can’t do this without your support!
Your donations go directly to Phoenix Knights, and contributions are used for
- Compensation for the former Game Loft staff – now Phoenix Knights volunteers – for their time and effort running games and coordinating all programming and events.
- Fresh, healthy food and game supplies to keep participants fed and engaged.
- Administrative costs of setting up a new organization, including insurance and legal fees.
Many thanks for everyone who has donated to PKG through our
(Just click the link to check it out!)
You now have the option to make a recurring monthly donation!
Please share the link, spread the word, and donate! Thank you!
5. CARPOOLING
** If you live in greater Waldo County and you need transportation to PKG
OR
** If you’re able to drive for a carpool
PLEASE REACH OUT TO US!
In an effort to connect with families who live outside of Belfast and want to participate in PKG programming, we’re starting the “Carpool Conversation”
EMAIL US TO LEARN MORE!
6. The Survey
If you haven’t filled out the survey yet, please consider doing so soon! Your input is crucial to the success of the Phoenix Knights. Please CLICK HERE to take the survey.
7. Facebook Page
We’ve made a Facebook page to keep you abreast of last minute changes! Check it out here: Phoenix Knights Facebook Page. We will still send emails regarding substantive changes or notifications, but for the day to day please check Facebook!
We are staying focused on the fundamental services that the Game Loft provided:
– Positive relationships with mentors and peers
– Youth development through non-electronic games
– A safe and supportive place to play and grow
Thanks so much for your continued support of the youth of Waldo County!
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to this email address to sign up to volunteer, to ask questions, or to tell us your thoughts.
With gratitude,
Belfast Phoenix Knights Steering Committee
~~Rio Greeley, John Jurcheck, Courtney Hayes, Pen Occhipinti, Anne Saggese, Esther Williamson, Logan Marietta, Oliver Jurcheck, Sara Moscoso, Graham Mallory, Stephen Colby, Rory Williamson, and Leo Smith~~
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Weekly Update 6/2
Hello Phoenix Knights supporters,
Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!
1. GRATITUDE!
The Belfast Community Co-op will be presenting us with a “big check” from their Common Sense program tomorrow, Tuesday June 3rd at 11am. We’re so grateful to the Co-op for their support.
Shop Local! And please continue to “round up” at the Co-op for deserving non-profit organizations in our community!
THANK YOU to all of our donors over the past two weeks! We can’t do this without your support!
Many thanks for everyone who has donated to PKG through our
(Just click the link to check it out!)
You now have the option to make a recurring monthly donation!
Your donations go directly to Phoenix Knights, and contributions are used for:
- Fresh, healthy food and game supplies to keep participants fed and engaged.
- Administrative costs of setting up a new organization, including insurance and legal fees.
- Compensation for the former Game Loft staff – now Phoenix Knights volunteers – for their time and effort running games and coordinating all programming and events.
Please share the link, spread the word, and donate! Thank you!
2. SUMMERTIME
We’re planning an awesome PKG Summer!
Summer Hours will officially begin on Monday, July 7th.
Stay tuned for more details on Live Action Combaton Wednesdays in the summertime.
3. CARPOOLING
** If you live in greater Waldo County and you need transportation to PKG
OR
** If you’re able to drive for a carpool
PLEASE REACH OUT TO US!
In an effort to connect with families who live outside of Belfast and want to participate in PKG programming, we’re starting the “Carpool Conversation”
EMAIL US TO LEARN MORE!
4. The Survey
If you haven’t filled out the survey yet, please consider doing so soon! Your input is crucial to the success of the Phoenix Knights. Please CLICK HERE to take the survey.
5. Facebook Page
We’ve made a Facebook page to keep you abreast of last minute changes! Check it out here: Phoenix Knights Facebook Page. We will still send emails regarding substantive changes or notifications, but for the day to day please check Facebook!
We are staying focused on the fundamental services that the Game Loft provided:
– Positive relationships with mentors and peers
– Youth development through non-electronic games
– A safe and supportive place to play and grow
Thanks so much for your continued support of the youth of Waldo County!
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to this email address to sign up to volunteer, to ask questions, or to tell us your thoughts.
With gratitude,
Belfast Phoenix Knights Steering Committee
~~Rio Greeley, John Jurcheck, Courtney Hayes, Pen Occhipinti, Anne Saggese, Esther Williamson, Logan Marietta, Oliver Jurcheck, Sara Moscoso, Graham Mallory, Stephen Colby, Rory Williamson, and Leo Smith~~
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Weekly Update 5/26
Hello Phoenix Knights supporters,
Our awesome game-based youth development programs continue in Belfast!
–Please Note: We will be CLOSED today, Monday, May 26th for Memorial Day.–
1. SCHEDULE for next week:
Monday 5/26: CLOSED for Memorial Day
Tuesday 5/27 and Thursday 5/29: First Church in Belfast (8 Court St, Belfast)
Ages 12 – 18yrs 2:30-6pm
**Please enter through the Parish House doors facing Court St.**
Programming will be held in the Parlor on the ground floor:
Enter through the doors and go straight down the hall
Second door on the left.
Friday 5/30: UU Church (37 Miller St, Belfast)
Ages 12 – 18yrs 2:30pm-6pm
2. GRATITUDE
Many thanks for everyone who has donated to PKG through our
(Just click the link to check it out!)
You now have the option to make a recurring monthly donation!
Your donations go directly to Phoenix Knights, and contributions are used for:
- Fresh, healthy food and game supplies to keep participants fed and engaged.
- Administrative costs of setting up a new organization, including insurance and legal fees.
- Compensation for the former Game Loft staff – now Phoenix Knights volunteers – for their time and effort running games and coordinating all programming and events.
Please share the link, spread the word, and donate! Thank you!
We’re also incredibly grateful to the Belfast Community Co-op for including us in their Common Sense program.
**Don’t forget to “round up” when you check out at the Belfast Community Co-op this month – those proceeds also go directly to PKG for the Month of May!
We’ll be in front of the Co-op on Wednesday, May 28th from 2-5pm. Stop by and say hi!
3. SUMMERTIME
We’re planning an awesome PKG Summer!
Summer Hours will officially begin on Monday, July 7th.
Stay tuned for more details on Live Action Combaton Wednesdays in the summertime.
3. CARPOOLING
** If you live in greater Waldo County and you need transportation to PKG
OR
** If you’re able to drive for a carpool
PLEASE REACH OUT TO US!
In an effort to connect with families who live outside of Belfast and want to participate in PKG programming, we’re starting the “Carpool Conversation”
EMAIL US TO LEARN MORE!
4. The Survey
If you haven’t filled out the survey yet, please consider doing so soon! Your input is crucial to the success of the Phoenix Knights. Please CLICK HERE to take the survey.
5. Facebook Page
We’ve made a Facebook page to keep you abreast of last minute changes! Check it out here: Phoenix Knights Facebook Page. We will still send emails regarding substantive changes or notifications, but for the day to day please check Facebook!
We are staying focused on the fundamental services that the Game Loft provided:
– Positive relationships with mentors and peers
– Youth development through non-electronic games
– A safe and supportive place to play and grow
Thanks so much for your continued support of the youth of Waldo County!
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to this email address to sign up to volunteer, to ask questions, or to tell us your thoughts.
With gratitude,
Belfast Phoenix Knights Steering Committee
~~Rio Greeley, John Jurcheck, Courtney Hayes, Pen Occhipinti, Anne Saggese, Esther Williamson, Logan Marietta, Oliver Jurcheck, Sara Moscoso, Graham Mallory, Stephen Colby, Rory Williamson, and Leo Smith~~
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Weekly Update 5/19
Hello Phoenix Knights supporters,
Our awesome game-based youth development programs continue in Belfast!
Great News: We have a Givebutter Donation Platform!
(Just click the link to check it out!)
This means folks can donate to Phoenix Knights directly, and contributions will go toward:
- – Fresh, healthy food and game supplies to keep participants fed and engaged.
- – Administrative costs of setting up a new organization, including insurance and legal fees.
- – Compensation for the former Game Loft staff – now Phoenix Knights volunteers – for their time and effort running games and coordinating all programming and events.
- Please share the link, spread the word, and donate! Thank you!
- **And don’t forget to “round up” when you check out at the Belfast Community Co-op this month – those proceeds also go directly to PKG for the Month of May!
- — !! We’re Looking toward Summertime !! —
The Steering Committee recently met to discuss Live Action Combat programs for the Summertime (most likely on Wednesdays, beginning in June), so keep an eye out for that info in the coming weeks…
Remember, we’re back to four days a week of programming in Belfast!
1. THE SCHEDULE:
Monday 5/19: First Baptist Church (95 High St, Belfast)
Ages 7 – 11yrs 2:30pm-5:30pm
**Please note the earlier end time on Monday**
Tuesday 5/20 and Thursday 5/22: First Church in Belfast (8 Court St, Belfast)
Ages 12 – 18yrs 2:30-6pm
**Please enter through the Parish House doors facing Court St.**
Programming will be held in the Parlor on the ground floor:
Enter through the doors and go straight down the hall
Second door on the left.
Friday 5/23: UU Church (37 Miller St, Belfast)
Ages 12 – 18yrs 2:30pm-6pm
2. COMMON CENTS AT THE BELFAST CO-OP IN MAY
Phoenix Knights are the recipients of the Common Cents Program in May!
“When you’re checking out at the Co-op in May,
Round up so the Phoenix Knights can play!”
3. CARPOOLING
** If you live in greater Waldo County and you need transportation to PKG
OR
** If you’re able to drive for a carpool
PLEASE REACH OUT TO US!
In an effort to connect with families who live outside of Belfast and want to participate in PKG programming, we’re starting the “Carpool Conversation”
EMAIL US TO LEARN MORE!
4. The Survey
If you haven’t filled out the survey yet, please consider doing so soon! Your input is crucial to the success of the Phoenix Knights. Please CLICK HERE to take the survey.
5. Facebook Page
We’ve made a Facebook page to keep you abreast of last minute changes! Check it out here: Phoenix Knights Facebook Page. We will still send emails regarding substantive changes or notifications, but for the day to day please check Facebook!
We are staying focused on the fundamental services that the Game Loft provided:
– Positive relationships with mentors and peers
– Youth development through non-electronic games
– A safe and supportive place to play and grow
Thanks so much for your continued support of the youth of Waldo County!
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to this email address to sign up to volunteer, to ask questions, or to tell us your thoughts.
With gratitude,
Belfast Phoenix Knights Steering Committee
~~Rio Greeley, John Jurcheck, Courtney Hayes, Pen Occhipinti, Anne Saggese, Esther Williamson, Logan Marietta, Oliver Jurcheck, Sara Moscoso, Graham Mallory, Stephen Colby, Rory Williamson, and Leo Smith~~
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Weekly Update 5/4
Hello Phoenix Knights supporters,
We’re going strong with four days a week of game-powered youth development programming in Belfast!
**If you live in the Unity/Thorndike area and would be interested in joining a carpool to Phoenix Knights, please reach out to us! We have a few families interested in forming a carpool**
1. THE SCHEDULE:
Monday 5/5: First Baptist Church (95 High St, Belfast)
Ages 7 – 11yrs 2:30pm-5:30pm
**Please note the earlier end time on Monday**
Tuesday 5/6 and Thursday 5/8: First Church in Belfast (8 Court St, Belfast)
Ages 12 – 18yrs 2:30-6pm
**Please enter through the Parish House doors facing Court St.**
Programming will be held in the Parlor on the ground floor:
Enter through the doors and go straight down the hall
Second door on the left.
Friday 5/9: UU Church (37 Miller St, Belfast)
Ages 12 – 18yrs 2:30pm-6pm
**Please note NO programming on Wednesday moving forward.**
2. COMMON CENTS AT THE BELFAST CO-OP IN MAY
Phoenix Knights are the recipients of the Common Cents Program in May!
“When you’re checking out at the Co-op in May,
Round up so the Phoenix Knights can play!”
We’ll also be sitting outside the Co-op on Saturday, May 10th – after you’ve participated in Keeping Belfast Maine Beautiful cleanup, please come visit us and learn more about the program!
3. CARPOOLING
** If you live in greater Waldo County and you need transportation to PKG
OR
** If you’re able to drive for a carpool
PLEASE REACH OUT TO US!
In an effort to connect with families who live outside of Belfast and want to participate in PKG programming, we’re starting the “Carpool Conversation”
EMAIL US TO LEARN MORE!
4. The Survey
If you haven’t filled out the survey yet, please consider doing so soon! Your input is crucial to the success of the Phoenix Knights. Please CLICK HERE to take the survey.
5. Facebook Page
We’ve made a Facebook page to keep you abreast of last minute changes! Check it out here: Phoenix Knights Facebook Page. We will still send emails regarding substantive changes or notifications, but for the day to day please check Facebook!
We are staying focused on the fundamental services that the Game Loft provided:
– Positive relationships with mentors and peers
– Youth development through non-electronic games
– A safe and supportive place to play and grow
Thanks so much for your continued support of the youth of Waldo County!
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to this email address to sign up to volunteer, to ask questions, or to tell us your thoughts.
With gratitude,
Belfast Phoenix Knights Steering Committee
~~Rio Greeley, John Jurcheck, Courtney Hayes, Pen Occhipinti, Anne Saggese, Esther Williamson, Logan Marietta, Oliver Jurcheck, Sara Moscoso, Graham Mallory, Stephen Colby, Rory Williamson, and Leo Smith~~
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Weekly Update 4/28
Hello Phoenix Knights supporters,
Great News! The First Church in Belfast has graciously stepped in to host Phoenix Knights programming on Tuesdays and Thursdays!
So, starting this week, we’re back to four days a week of game-powered youth development programming in Belfast!
Big shout out to Max Alex, who designed our new logo, now seen on the page! A colored version will be out eventually.
1. THE SCHEDULE:
Monday 4/28: First Baptist Church (95 High St, Belfast)
Ages 7 – 11yrs 2:30pm-5:30pm
**Please note the earlier end time on Monday**
Tuesday 4/29 and Thursday 5/1: First Church in Belfast (8 Court St, Belfast)
Ages 12 – 18yrs 2:30-6pm
**Please enter through the Parish House doors facing Court St.**
Programming will be held in the Parlor on the ground floor:
Enter through the doors and go straight down the hall
Second door on the left.
Friday 4/18/25: UU Church (37 Miller St, Belfast)
Ages 12 – 18yrs 2:30pm-6pm
**Please note NO programming on Wednesday moving forward.**
2. COMMON CENTS AT THE BELFAST CO-OP IN MAY
Phoenix Knights are the recipients of the Common Cents Program in May!
“When you’re checking out at the Co-op in May,
Round up so the Phoenix Knights can play!”
3. CARPOOLING
** If you live in greater Waldo County and you need transportation to PKG
OR
** If you’re able to drive for a carpool
PLEASE REACH OUT TO US!
In an effort to connect with families who live outside of Belfast and want to participate in PKG programming, we’re starting the “Carpool Conversation”
EMAIL US TO LEARN MORE!
4. The Survey
If you haven’t filled out the survey yet, please consider doing so soon! Your input is crucial to the success of the Phoenix Knights. Please CLICK HERE to take the survey.
5. Facebook Page
We’ve made a Facebook page to keep you abreast of last minute changes! Check it out here: Phoenix Knights Facebook Page. We will still send emails regarding substantive changes or notifications, but for the day to day please check Facebook!
We are staying focused on the fundamental services that the Game Loft provided:
– Positive relationships with mentors and peers
– Youth development through non-electronic games
– A safe and supportive place to play and grow
Thanks so much for your continued support of the youth of Waldo County!
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to this email address to sign up to volunteer, to ask questions, or to tell us your thoughts.
With gratitude,
Belfast Phoenix Knights Steering Committee
~~Rio Greeley, John Jurcheck, Courtney Hayes, Pen Occhipinti, Anne Saggese, Esther Williamson, Logan Marietta, Oliver Jurcheck, Sara Moscoso, Graham Mallory, Stephen Colby, Rory Williamson, and Leo Smith~~
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Weekly Update 4/21
Hello Phoenix Knights supporters,
Phoenix Knights will NOT hold programming this coming week. We’re taking Spring Break to recharge and rejuvenate!
**NO PKG Monday 4/21 through Friday 4/25**
**Our quest will continue the week of April 28th, as follows:**
Monday 4/28: First Baptist Church (95 High St, Belfast)
Ages 7 – 11yrs 2:30pm-5:30pm **please note the earlier end time on Monday**
Friday 5/2: UU Church (37 Miller St, Belfast)Ages 12 – 18yrs 2:30pm-6pm
Thank you for your support! We hope you have a wonderful break week and we’ll see you on Monday, April 28th!With gratitude,
Belfast Phoenix Knights Steering Committee
~~Rio Greeley, John Jurcheck, Courtney Hayes, Pen Occhipinti, Anne Saggese, Esther Williamson, Logan Marietta, Oliver Jurcheck, Sara Moscoso, Graham Mallory, Stephen Colby, Rory Williamson, and Leo Smith~~
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Weekly Update 4/14
Hello Phoenix Knights supporters,
Phoenix Knights programming continues this week on Monday and Friday. See below for details:
1. The Schedule:
Monday 4/14: First Baptist Church (95 High St, Belfast)
Ages 7 – 11yrs 2:30pm-5:30pm **please note the earlier end time on Monday**
Friday 4/18/25: UU Church (37 Miller St, Belfast)
Ages 12 – 18yrs 2:30pm-6pm
**NO Programming This Week on Tuesday or Thursday**
— We are working with the First Church – they are very excited to support PKG! – but we need liability insurance before they can host us.
We are still searching for a more permanent home!
**If you have other ideas about space we could use for PKG, please reach out to us!**
**Please note NO programming on Wednesday moving forward.**
2. Volunteers
Thank you so much to our volunteers!!
We really appreciate your support!
**If you’re signed up to volunteer, and you can’t make it, please give us some notice so we can find a replacement – thank you!**
We could still use some “on call” volunteers who can show up in case weather, sickness or other issues prevent our regular staff and volunteers from supporting programming.
During Programs: We continue to need support preparing simple lunches and snacks for the kids as well as welcoming families and supporting programming.
Please respond with your availability and we’ll schedule you in!
We are also looking for volunteers to join Committees and help with:
Legal Advice (especially non-profit guidance and insurance)
Finance and Fundraising
Cooking and Food Preparation
Please reach out if you’re interested in joining a Committee!
3. Food
If you are able to support our food needs we would appreciate:
Bread, lunch meat, cheese, low-sugar jelly, healthy snacks, fruit and vegetable snacks (carrots, celery, mandarins, apples, etc,)
Please bring any food items when programs are running!
4. The Survey
If you haven’t filled out the survey yet, please consider doing so soon! Your input is crucial to the success of the Phoenix Knights. Please CLICK HERE to take the survey.
5. Facebook Page
We’ve made a Facebook page to keep you abreast of last minute changes! Check it out here: Phoenix Knights Facebook Page. We will still send emails regarding substantive changes or notifications, but for the day to day please check Facebook!
We are staying focused on the fundamental services that the Game Loft provided:
– Positive relationships with mentors and peers
– Youth development through non-electronic games
– A safe and supportive place to play and grow
Thanks so much for your continued support of the youth of Waldo County!
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to this email address to sign up to volunteer, to ask questions, or to tell us your thoughts.
With gratitude,
Belfast Phoenix Knights Steering Committee
~~Rio Greeley, John Jurcheck, Courtney Hayes, Pen Occhipinti, Anne Saggese, Esther Williamson, Logan Marietta, Oliver Jurcheck, Sara Moscoso, Graham Mallory, Stephen Colby, Rory Williamson, and Leo Smith~~
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Weekly Update 4/7/25
Hello Phoenix Knights supporters,
Phoenix Knights Gaming continues! Our quest is beset by challenges, but we are confident we will prevail in the end.
**Once again this week, we will only have programming on MONDAY and FRIDAY, due to the lack of permanent space to host us.**
1. The Schedule:
Monday 4/7: First Baptist Church (95 High St, Belfast)
Ages 7 – 11yrs 2:30pm-5:30pm **please note the earlier end time on Monday**
Friday 4/11/25: UU Church (367 Miller St, Belfast)Ages 12 – 18yrs 2:30pm-6pm
**NO Programming This Week on Tuesday or Thursday**
— We are working with the First Church – they are very excited to support PKG! – but we need liability insurance before they can host us.
We are still searching for a more permanent home!
**If you have other ideas about space we could use for PKG, please reach out to us!**
**Please note NO programming on Wednesday moving forward.**
2. Volunteers
Thank you so much to our volunteers!!
We really appreciate your support!
**If you’re signed up to volunteer, and you can’t make it, please give us some notice so we can find a replacement – thank you!**
We could still use some “on call” volunteers who can show up in case weather, sickness or other issues prevent our regular staff and volunteers from supporting programming.
During Programs: We continue to need support preparing simple lunches and snacks for the kids as well as welcoming families and supporting programming.
Please respond with your availability and we’ll schedule you in!
We are also looking for volunteers to join Committees and help with:
Legal Advice (especially non-profit guidance and insurance)
Finance and Fundraising
Cooking and Food Preparation
Please reach out if you’re interested in joining a Committee!
3. Food
If you are able to support our food needs we would appreciate:
Bread, lunch meat, cheese, low-sugar jelly, healthy snacks, fruit and vegetable snacks (carrots, celery, mandarins, apples, etc,)
Please bring any food items when programs are running!
4. The Survey
If you haven’t filled out the survey yet, please consider doing so soon! Your input is crucial to the success of the Phoenix Knights. Please CLICK HERE to take the survey.
5. Facebook Page
We’ve made a Facebook page to keep you abreast of last minute changes! Check it out here: Phoenix Knights Facebook Page. We will still send emails regarding substantive changes or notifications, but for the day to day please check Facebook!
We are staying focused on the fundamental services that the Game Loft provided:
– Positive relationships with mentors and peers
– Youth development through non-electronic games
– A safe and supportive place to play and grow
Thanks so much for your continued support of the youth of Waldo County!
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to this email address to sign up to volunteer, to ask questions, or to tell us your thoughts.
With gratitude,
Belfast Phoenix Knights Steering Committee
~~Rio Greeley, John Jurcheck, Courtney Hayes, Pen Occhipinti, Anne Saggese, Esther Williamson, Logan Marietta, Oliver Jurcheck, Sara Moscoso, Graham Mallory, Stephen Colby, Rory Williamson, and Leo Smith~~
Phoenix Knights Gaming 