'Derby' event to aid Rotary projects

The "Night at the Derby" event, set for Saturday, May 6, will be an evening to remember, Rotary member Amy Bean said.

The evening will begin with a signature cocktail provided by the 219. Participants also can pick up a ticket for a high-end Kentucky bourbon tasting flight, or take their chances on a bottle of wine from the wine wall, where some true classics will be hiding for a few lucky tables.

A family-style meal, prepared by Chef Gabe Cruz, has been carefully selected to surprise and delight with southern classics of “Kentucky fried” chicken, dirty rice, Kentucky hot browns, spoon bread, pork belly and more.

In addition to Rotary community projects, a portion of the evening’s proceeds will benefit a local nonprofit, Food for Our Children. For nearly 10 years, the organization has fought to lessen the impact of youth hunger in the community. Run and staffed entirely by volunteers, FFOC volunteers provide children with backpacks full of food for the weekend.

In addition to great food and libations, there are a host of live auction items such as Seahawks or Zags, Mariners or Chiefs. Participants can also bid on a round of golf (with top secret tips from the pro) at the Idaho Club. Looking for some truly unique experiences? The auction list also includes a apple-cider press party with gourmet food and wine for 16, a small-batch Casa Dragones Tequila tasting and Dutch oven cooking experience by the river, and a southern style seafood boil at the winner's home. Or perhaps get ready to put your toes in the sand with a luxury vacation in Mexico.

For information, to to purchase tickets, go online to bit.ly/43OAeUJ; or email Bean at frijolefamily@gmail.com.