Nineteen years and counting for the Father- Daughter Date Night held Saturday night at McMinnville Civic Center. 
According to organizers, the event was a sellout, with 348 tickets purchased. First National Bank president and CEO Pieter van Vuuren welcomed the guests to the gala thanking everyone attending for sharing their memories.
“This night is all about the young ladies in the room, and the dads, grandfathers or chaperones who brought them here tonight,” said van Vuuren.
The committee chose an Eiffel Tower theme, with miniature towers nestled on each table, and a larger tower set up as a focal point for photos. Lights were strung across the large expanse of the Civic Center gymnasium, with walls covered with star-studded material. 
The Sound Machine provided music for the evening, as well as a fun photo booth where attendees could have photos made using various props. Dancers enjoyed watching themselves on a large video screen suspended high above the stage.
Ivan and daughter Carmen Verdel planned a memorable evening, as this was their second year to attend. They both agreed it is a fun night, but Carmen says dancing and being with her daddy is the best part. 
Kayla Greer, who has a daughter herself, remembers coming to the dinner and dance with her father Jackie Francis.
“It always made me feel special when my daddy brought me,” said Greer. “My baby Laylah is here tonight with her dad and I want it to be special for her. My brother and his daughter are also here, making it a family outing.”
Even though baby Laylah is only 3 months old, she seemed to be enjoying taking a nap in her grandfather’s arms, as the others enjoyed dining and dancing.
Jacob and Allie Melton preserved the moments by taking selfies of themselves at the gala.
Jacob said, “I feel it’s important to make some father-daughter time, something besides ball games, just me and her.”
Seven-year-old Allie agreed, “I love being with daddy, and having time with just us!”