Each year since 1977 the Kiwanis Club of McLean, Virginia on a certain Thursday evening in November has hosted the Division 20 Sponsored Youth Night. The event provides an opportunity to hear directly from the leaders of, and celebrate the activities and achievements of, the Capital District Circle K Clubs, Key Clubs and Builders Clubs. This is a night when Kiwanians decidedly take a back seat to the younger members of the Kiwanis Family, and it has been the setting for many memorable occasions.

Dale Larson, who many know well from his years of Kiwanis service and his tireless support of Kiwanis' Sponsored Youth Programs, first conceived of an evening where the leaders of Kiwanis's youth service programs - Circle K, Key Club, Builders Club - would be the focus, and he has guided the annual event since its inaugural. Each year, Dale has assiduously handled all of the planning and logistics to ensure the event is a success and a source of inspiration.

Many of the Capital District's most celebrated leaders make it a point to participate in Sponsored Youth Night each year. Past Capital District Governor and International Trustee Lindley H. "Dig" DeGarmo is perhaps one of the most ardent supporters. Dig participated in the first Sponsored Youth Night and has been a part of just about every Sponsored Youth Night ever since. There are many others who, once attend, make it a point to come back each year. For instance, Past Kiwanis International Vice President Jim Kaufman has made it to each Sponsored Youth Night since he first participated. Many others make it a point to be a part of Sponsored Youth Night and travel (sometimes great distances) to Northern Virginia to join in the evening.

This year, the Division 20 Sponsored Youth Night will come on November 1st. It will mark the 30th anniversary of an event that many look forward to each autumn. Dale has decided that this will be the last Sponsored Youth Night where he is firmly at the helm. Perhaps after 30 years, he deserves to take a breather and allow others to attempt to fill his very sizeable shoes. While Dale is not one who seeks awards or public recognition (indeed, the modesty steeped in his Minnesotan roots would have shun the spot light) the best way for fellow Kiwanians to recognize and show their appreciation for Dale's commitment, dedication and hard work these many years is to make this year's Sponsored Youth Night a terrific success.

Accordingly, the Kiwanis Club of McLean, Virginia invites Kiwanians throughout the Capital District to join us November 1st at the Tyson's Corner Marriott at 6:15 p.m. for the 30th Annual Sponsored Youth Night. Better still, bring along members of the Key Clubs, Circle K Clubs, or Builders Clubs that your club sponsors so they experience a true Kiwanis Family event. Tickets are $35. Call ahead to reserve space by calling Dale Larson at 703-893-4527. Don't hesitate to leave a message. Thank you and see you November 1st.