Place your bets on Findlay Rotary's derby party

FINDLAY — Dust off your fascinators and break out your best bowtie — the Findlay Flag City Morning Rotary Club is bringing back one of the community's favorite traditions. The club will host its 8th annual Kentucky Derby Gala on May 2 at the Hilton Garden Inn, 1050 Interstate Drive, with proceeds benefiting local charitable causes. The event will take place from 6-9 p.m. and will support Cancer Patient Services and the Findlay Flag City Morning Rotary Foundation. Tickets are $75 and include two drink tickets and five raffle entries. Guests will enjoy a live viewing of the Kentucky Derby along with an evening of entertainment, including horse racing games, a 50/50 raffle tied to the race winner, Plinko, an archery challenge and a putting contest. A live auction and additional raffles will feature a variety of high-value prizes, including a Gervasi Vineyard getaway with an overnight stay, along with a bottle of wine and bourbon; a locally inspired "My Favorite Things" gift card bundle; a tabletop Solo Stove with accessories; high-end bourbon baskets; office furniture; jewelry; and more. In keeping with Derby tradition, attendees are encouraged to wear business casual attire with a "Derby twist." Prizes will be awarded for the best Derby hat and best bowtie or socks. Gourmet hors d'oeuvres will be served, along with a cash bar featuring the Kentucky classic mint julep. For dessert, guests can try their luck in a sweet twist on the evening's fun — a cupcake raffle, with the winner taking home a bottle of Blanton's bourbon. The event is sponsored by Triple Crown Sponsors Whitta Construction, Ohio Logistics and Eagles FOE #2118, Grand Champion Sponsor Hilton Garden Inn — Findlay and others. Tickets are available via Findlay Flag City Morning Rotary Club's Facebook page. For more information, email fcm.rotary.derby@gmail.com.