Community Corner
Give Back at the Somers 'Kentucky Derby'
Watch the race live on May 4 at the Somers Kentucky Derby Festival, being held by the Somers Lion Club.
The Somers Lions Club is throwing a Kentucky Derby viewing party that could rival the actual event, all while helping out local families and charities in need.
Somers Lions Club president Andy Hogan said that the May 4 event could be the start of a yearly derby tradition.
"We don't usually do events this large, but this has it's own momentum," Hogan said. He estimates that more than a thousand derby viewers could show up at the festival, being held at Shallowbrook Equestrian Center. "We're hoping to make this a yearly event."
Part of the draw will undoubtedly be the great causes that the derby benefits. The Somers Lion Club will donate the proceeds to:
- Somers Lion Club charities and scholarships
- The family of  the late Springfield firefighter Kenneth Murray
- Somers resident Steve Yefko and family - Yefko, a Somers High School graduate, has recently experienced issues with his health, according to Hogan.
The event will also feature a derby hat contest for those with great head finery to show off!
Ticket price includes admission and a hot dog/hamburger and a drink, Hogan said. Prices are $20 for adults, $10 for seniors and kids 12 and under are free.
Residents looking for tickets, those reserving a spot for a vendor's booth, businesses who would like to sponsor a polo team and anyone willing to volunteer can send an email to lionskentuckyderby@gmail.com.
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