The Whitesboro Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) and Happy Dave Blaylock sponsored their 17th Annual Father/Daughter Dance on Saturday, Feb. 1 at the Whitesboro Middle School.
PARD Director Penny Renfroe said, “This year’s dance was a record breaker! We had a total of 486 dancers, making this year’s event the most successful in history. The dads danced, the girls danced and sang and a good time was had by all. Due to an emergency power outage at the Community Center, we moved the dance to the Whitesboro Middle School. The school district was so gracious and accommodating, the event went off without a hitch.”
The PARD’s staff is to be commended for their extra effort in moving all supplies and setting up on the night before the event.
“Despite the change in venue, we were pleased that so many people came out to enjoy this special event,” Renfroe said. “Including staff, volunteers and moms taking pictures after 8:30 p.m., the total was 557. Personally, this is my favorite event of the year because I believe it’s so meaningful and significant. Some great memories are made, and it hopefully solidifies the relationships that will be so important for the girls in the coming years.”
Happy Dave Blaylock provides the sound equipment, and he acts as the event’s host.
“We could not have this event without Dave Blaylock,” Renfroe said. “Dave has such a heart for the girls, having raised two daughters himself, and seeing them with their dads is such a blessing.”
The department had professional photographer Christine Davis shooting pictures of the event.
“This is a great opportunity to get pictures of the girls and dads all dressed up and having fun together,” Renfroe said. “Lots of moms want to have pictures to remember the event but don’t want to intrude on the dads’ time, so we provide a way for them to remember the big night.”
Those wanting photos can check out the Christine Davis Photography page on Facebook or find the link on the PARD page. Digital photos will be available for print from that site, or interested parties may contact Davis directly.
“We place so much value on this event, and we want families to have easy access to the photos,” Renfroe said.
In addition to Blaylock and Davis, the high school’s National Honor Society also serves at the event, working with staff and assisting with clean-up.
Renfroe extends a special thanks to all the men who attended the dance with their little girls
“We hope that you made a great memory. We look forward to seeing you again next year!” she said.
PARD staff is already planning for the 2026 Father/Daughter Dance. Information about this and other activities can also be found on the department’s website at www.whitesborotexas.com/pard.
