Right out of the gate, KWVH’s Second Annual Kentucky Derby party, presented by Ozona Bank, proved itself a winner.
More than 310 people attended the occasion at Vintage Oaks Farm in Driftwood and watched as Mage, a three-year-old sorrel, came from behind to edge out Two Phil’s and Angel of Empire for first place.
Executive Director Tim Kiesling came dressed for the occasion as a jockey in green and purple silks, complete with horse, and handed out cash for winning raffles. The final race earned the winner $2,000.
High spirits, a sea of hats and striking Race Day attire dominated as guests nibbled Derby fare from Gourmet Gals and sampled Woodford Reserve Bourbon. Organized by a team of 40 volunteers under the direction of Becky Mc-Cullough and co-chair Yvonne Thompson, guests were shuttled to a well-oiled reception table and onto a photo backdrop bearing the KWVH logo. From there, guests were offered Mint Juleps and given tours of the indoor buffet line, silent auction and balloting areas before being escorted to their tables.
While overall results are still being calculated, a Golden Tee arcade game was the top selling silent auction item with a Med Spa package, The Zone Recording Studio and Astros tickets following closely behind.
The first-place winner in the Blinky Bracelet Heads or Tails contest was none other than Vintage Oaks Farm co-owner, Sissy Baskin.
Professional non-profit auctioneer Andrew Bost led bidders in a live auction through a race card of resort stays, airline tickets, prime memberships, gourmet dinners and other expensive items.
Despite formidable competition, the winner of the Best Hat contest went to Trudi Spring Allison for a payout of $250. A tongue-in-cheek notable mention goes to Keith Coffee for his black and white organza wide brim flounce.
As KWVH’s primary fundraising event, the non-profit community- supported radio station depends on events such as the Derby Party to make improvements and sustain operational costs.
The station was formed as a result of the 2011 wildfires in Central Texas. At the time, there was no radio coverage warning residents of impending danger. Members of the Wimberley community saw the need for a local radio station. Before it could begin broadcasting in 2016, a deadly flood in 2015 on Memorial Day weekend killed eight residents and destroyed hundreds of residences along the Blanco River, further underscoring the need for its existence.
Next year’s Kentucky Derby party is slated for May 4, 2024. Organizers hope that proceeds from the 2023 party will outrun the $60,000 raised in 2022.
