Judy Wine and Ricky Gantt enjoy the dance. A Friday night in mid- September is usually spent at local high schools watching football games. However, on September 19, the folks at the Babcock Center decided to use the last Friday of the summer to hold their annual summer dance. It was sponsored by the Babcock Center Foundation.

"These events give them an opportunity to get

"We've held this dance for the last 30 years, but this is the first year that we've held it outdoors," Dorothy Goodwin, senior director of programs, said.

Anywhere from 700- 800 people were expected to attend. The Babcock Center provided pizza, snow cones, chips, and drinks; while DJ Dr. Love Disco played a mix of hip hop, beach, cha- cha, and electric slide.

This night was mostly about the people that attended the dance. Some of them were residents of the Babcock Center or those that attended the Day Program offered; while others came from various centers around the Mid- together and see their friends and have fun. They love it," Carrie Deaton, director of the Babcock Foundation, said.

Kristy Harmon, marketing and volunteer services coordinator; and Larry Fisher Lillian Walker, a staff member for Gabriel Lane in Blythewood, brought two of her clients to the dance.

"When I told Ms. Cleo and Mr. Arthur about the dance, they were so excited that they asked if we could practice dancing. They spent the rest of the afternoon dancing in the middle of the living room. They wore me out but they could have danced forever. They really enjoy this dance."

The Babcock Center will hold other events throughout the year. The events include a golf tournament on October 21 and a Hole- in- One event planned for April. The Babcock Center folks will also be at the South Carolina State Fair handing out ornaments.

For more information about the Babcock Center call (803) 799-1970 or visit the website at www.babcockcenter. org.