To view photos of the event, please click here.
By Gary Weckselblatt
Quakertown area dads made special memories Sunday with the young loves of their lives, who grow up far too fast.
The dads -- or perhaps grandfathers or guardians -- took their sweethearts between the ages of 4 and 11 to Quakertown Community High School for the Daddy Daughter Dance. The two-hour event, attended by more than 200 fathers, many of whom had more than one date, included games, arts and crafts, coloring, balloons, food, and even some dancing.
"It's a time for girls and dads to celebrate their special relationship together," said Bethany Fuller, the faculty advisor to the Class of 2019, which sponsored the event. "It also helps getting girls used to what it's like to be at a dance."
Dr. Michael Zackon, principal of Quakertown Elementary School, enjoyed introducing two of his favorite ladies: Mickayla, 4, and Annie, 3, to several attendees.
"This is a fun and special day for dads," he said, "and my daughters have really been looking forward to it. Plus, it supports our high school junior class, so it's a win-win for everybody. The hardest part is when it's over."
Dr. Kevin Kelly, one of the district's psychologists, was with 7-year-old Maggie, who agreed to attend "Because I get to be with my dad. He'll dance with me, and we'll have fun together."
Kelly called the event "a dedicated, special time to spend with somebody. It's something we look forward to and will look back on."
Robert Lee, of Quakertown Borough Police, and the district's school resource officer, agreed. He's been to all four of the annual dances. Attending with his daughter Morgan, Lee said "It's a real bonding time, where it's just us."
Madie Honrado, a ninth grader at the high school, gave the perspective of a student, saying. "While it's great to have girls spend time with their dads, it also lets them see what the high school looks like compared to their school."
For the dads, it's another chance to watch his princess grow, and maybe create another memory while she still needs to clutch his hand.
Gary Weckselblatt, director of communications, writes about the people and the programs that impact the Quakertown Community School District. He can be reached at 215-529-2028 or [email protected].