Fathers, daughters dance the night away

The inaugural Mt. Vernon Father-Daughter Dance was held at the MARC on Friday, Jan. 31. An estimated 130 people attended.
During the evening, fathers and daughters were able to dance together, get their pictures taken by a professional photographer and enjoy a meal. There were also corsages and goodie bags available.
Britni Wilson, who helped organize the event, said the evening was put on to give fathers and daughters a special occasion to enjoy each other.
“We decided to start doing this because we have not had any type of event like this for dads and daughters in our area,” she said. “So, we thought it would be a really good idea to get the community together, and it’s also a good fundraiser for both of our organizations.”
Britni Wilson said the dance would continue to be held “for many years.”
Tony Daugherty said he was glad for a chance to dance with his daughter, Lisa, while he is still the most important man in her life.
“It’s our first dance,” he said. “And she, being 11 years old, probably won’t want to go to the next dance with me. Better get out there and take advantage of it while I can.”
 For her part, Lisa said the best part of the evening was “being able to spend time with my dad and see my friends outside of school.”
Josh Wilson, who has four daughters, said the evening was all about “just having fun out here, dancing with the girls.”
“They’ve just been having fun; they’re wearing me out,” he said.
Travis White said the dance gave him the opportunity to be the first man to dance with his daughter, Kylie.
“I’ll cherish it forever.”
Proceeds from the dance went to benefit Masonic Lodge #99 and the Mt. Vernon Mighty Mite Cheerleaders.