From swing dancing to glow sticks, Friday was not a typical night outside of Studebaker West Complex. Many Ball State University students could be found "Dancin' in the Streets" from 8 p.m. to midnight.
The road was closed next to the residence hall so that student and guests could participate in the event. Although there was not a charge for admission, glow sticks were available for purchase, and all proceeds were donated to charity.
"The RA staff from Stu West organized it," Gina Hermann, a resident assistant in Painter/Whitcraft Halls, said. "It was a fund-raiser for the Muscular Dystrophy Association."
The purpose was to provide entertainment for students and to help out a good cause.
"We were sitting around talking about possible programs," Kat DeShaney, assistant hall director for Palmer/Davidson Halls said. "In the spring, there's a lot going on, but there's not in the fall. We wanted to provide something free and support some kind of philanthropic cause."
According to its Web site, the Muscular Dystrophy Association is "a voluntary health agency - a dedicated partnership between scientists and concerned citizens aimed at conquering neuromuscular diseases that affect more than a million Americans." Muscular dystrophy includes a variety of neuromuscular diseases.
Hermann and DeShaney said several charitable organizations were considered and voted on, but the Muscular Dystrophy Association came out on top.
"We wanted something that dealt not only with children, or with adults," DeShaney said. "This is something that affects our age bracket."
The event featured a disc jockey, dancing and free food and drinks including pizza, popcorn, bottled water and pop.
"The pizza was good," freshman Charlotte Harter said. "It's nice that they can give free food to college students."
The event was attended by a variety of students, including some Ball State clubs.
"It was announced at the swing dance society," Doug Kiel, a member of Swing Club, said. "We came because we wanted to do some swing dancing. We were kind of disappointed; they didn't play as much swing as we had hoped."
Freshman Andrew Mettler said he was glad he chose to attend the event.
"There was really nothing else going on campus," Mettler said. "It was a lot of fun, and there was a good mix of music."
Because of the turnout in attendance, DeShaney said she considered the event meaningful and plans to make it a tradition.
"It was a success," DeShaney said. "I hope it will be something that continues throughout the years."
Mettler said Dancin' in the Streets was worthwhile.
"It was not just about partying," Mettler said. "It was about doing something good for people, too."
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
