Good cheer on Derby Day

NORTH CANAAN —  They’re off to the races! The Salisbury Rotary and the Exchange Club of Canaan joined forces at Geer Village on Saturday, May 7, for the annual Run for the Roses Kentucky Derby viewing party and fundraiser. 

Mint juleps splashed with Early Times Kentucky Whiskey were sipped by the colorful crowd, many of whom wore straw hats adorned with flowers and ribbons.

 In perfect pastel madras, Jerry and Mary Ellen Baldwin won Best-Dressed Couple. Margaret Williams’ cute confection of canary-colored tulle went home with the coveted award for Best Hat.

As for the racehorses? That was anyone’s bet — and the betting table was the hot place to be. American thoroughbred Nyquist (named after the Swedish hockey player) and jockey Mario Gutierrez were the heavy favorites at 2-1, and did in fact win the Derby. The “lucky” bettors only went home with $4 (minus the $2 betting fee), but it still always feel good to be on the winning side. 

For those who didn’t choose the winning horse, there were more than enough chances to go home a winner — and with some much bigger prizes. The silent auction featured more than 70 different gifts, baskets, and certificates donated by local businesses and community members, ranging from a 90-minute full body massage from Birgit Jensen Massage Therapy to tee time at Fairview Golf Course and race day tickets at Lime Rock Park. 

The live auction included a yearlong membership at the Hotchkiss School Golf Course, a private plane and champagne tour, and luxury getaways including a ski resort weekend at Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort in Hancock, Mass., and a one-week trip to Villa del Palmar, Mexico. Proceeds from the auctions  will help fund scholarships for local students.

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