The Barry’s Bay Recreation Committee says it’s putting a pause on hosting youth dances, after a recent one was marred by “vandalism, bullying and abusive behaviour.”
Those words come from a Facebook post by the group, describing what happened at the Dancin’ into Spring event at the Yakabuski Centre on Saturday, April 22. The post says the event drew an “unanticipated number of youth.” And there were “numerous incidents involving disrespectful behavior towards, participants event organizers and arena staff.”
A recreation committee leader declined an interview to talk more about what happened, but said incidents weren’t criminal and police were not called. She added the committee hasn’t ruled out hosting dances again but needs to “step back” for now.
The Facebook post said, “many participants had a wonderful time,” but added that the attendees were minor and “their safety is of paramount importance and concern.”
