The Lakehills Library brought a touch of Churchill Downs to Bandera County on Saturday, May 3, as supporters gathered for its annual fundraising gala, this year themed “Kentucky Derby Day.”
While the horses ran in Louisville, local guests turned out in derby finery—hats, bowties, and all—to show their support for the library’s programs and services.
The gala was held in the library’s community room, where attendees watched the 151st Kentucky Derby live on a large screen while enjoying an array of food and festivities.
Heavy hors d’oeuvres prepared by library volunteers included shrimp cocktail, brisket sliders, macaroni and cheese, fruit skewers, cheese and charcuterie boards, and an assortment of handmade desserts such as cheesecake, rum balls, and cupcakes.
Mint juleps flowed freely alongside offerings from a wine and cocktail/mocktail bar.
Youth volunteers from the Lakehills 4-H Club and Bandera County circulated with trays of food and drinks, ensuring guests had everything they needed. T he celebration also featured live entertainment by country singer Natalie Rose, who performed hits that kept the mood lively.
Beyond the food and music, guests engaged in themed gameslikeDerbyBingo,aKentucky Derby trivia challenge, and an interactive “By the Numbers” game that encouraged social mingling through derby-themed questions.
The evening also included several light-hearted contests, with awards given for Best Hat, Best Bowtie, Best Dressed Derby Couple, and Best Dressed overall. Laura Murray claimed the Best Hat title with a bold sunflower- themed creation.
Tables of silent auction items lined the space, all donated by generous local businesses including True Value Hardware, BEC, Lakehills Animal Health, New Life Resale, Bandera Jewelers, The Cutaway Salon, Monte Alteza, and many others. Bidders browsed the selections throughout the evening, supporting the library with each winning bid.
Notable guests included Gerri Riley, who greeted attendees at the door; Ron Clarke and Linda Morris of the Lakehills Community Center; and Anna Montague, board member of the Arthur Nagel Community Clinic, who stunned in pearls and a floral Derby ensemble.
The building that houses the Lakehills Library dates back to 1921, when it originally operated as a social venue called The Fox Hole. It was renamed The Silver Dollar in the 1940s and has since evolved into a cornerstone of the community.
Today, the library offers a wide range of public services including technology and computer classes, genealogy research assistance, and special interest clubs like the popular Garden Club.
The Lakehills Library operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and relies heavily on donations and community support to fund its programs.
Those interested in contributing can visit www.lakehillslibrary. org to make a donation online or learn more about ongoing programs.
For further information about the event or future fundraisers, contact Ron Clarke at roninsatx@gmail. com or (830) 612-1038.
.png)
