The Whitesboro Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) and Happy Dave Blaylock saw record attendance at their 16th Annual Father/Daughter Dance on Saturday, Feb. 3 at the Jimmie O. Rector Community Center.
“This year’s dance was a record breaker!” PARD Director Penny Renfroe said. “We had a total of 460 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.
“We were so pleased that so many came out to enjoy this special event. Including staff, volunteers and moms taking pictures after 8:30, the total was 543. We feel so fortunate to get to play a small part in providing this opportunity for girls to make some really special memories.
“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 for the dance, and he acts as the event’s host.
“We could not have this event without Dave Blaylock. 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 Katee Bratcher Photography 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 Katee Bratcher’s Facebook Photography page. Digital photos will be available for print from that site or interested parties may contact Bratcher directly.
“We place so much value on this event, and we want families to have easy access to the photos,” Renfroe said.
The Parks and Recreation Department staff is already planning for next year’s Father/Daughter Dance, which will be held Feb. 1, 2025. 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,” Renfroe said. “We look forward to seeing you again next year!”
Information about this and other activities can also be found on the department’s website at www.whitesborotexas.com/pard.
