RECORD STAFF

It’s that time of year again for dads to take their daughters out for an evening of fun and dancing at the 11th annual Daddy-Daughter Ball.

This is fathers’ opportunity to show those special girls how a gentleman treats a lady. Hailed as the social event of the year, the ball has become a favorite local tradition, with 200 to 250 men and girls coming out each year for a special night together.

The 2013 event is bringing exciting new changes: The dance is moving to the historic Bayview Hall, and everyone will receive a ticket to go through the new photo booth and leave with their photo in hand.

All ages are welcome, although the dance is most frequented by girls ages 2 to 15. It is not limited to “traditional dads,” other role models are welcome. Past dances have seen many grandfathers, brothers, uncles and neighbors towed along for the fun.

Not much of a dancer? No matter, John Travolta’s dancing skills are not required when the D.J. plays “YMCA.” Walter, Twyla and Celina Dill, of Everyone Can Dance, will provide a brief dance lesson opportunity, but essentially, it’s an evening to put on your best duds, get goofy on the dance floor and visit with other dads and daughters.

The sponsoring South Whidbey Parks and Recreation District is in need of volunteers to make this the best possible event for the girls. Help is needed as decorators, door greeters, refreshment prep and a clean-up crew. Donations are needed for door prizes and refreshments. Call Carrie at 221-6788.

Space is limited and tickets must be purchased in advance at www.swparks.org. The all-inclusive tickets are $23 per couple and $7 for each additional daughter, plus sales tax, and include a flower for the daughter, refreshments, a raffle ticket and a commemorative photo. Limited needs-based scholarships for the dance are available, but must be requested early.

For information contact 221-5484 or programs@whidbey.com.