Spirits soared, despite the nip in the air
Despite the slightly chilly, breezy, and drizzly weather, dedicated partygoers gathered for Mane Stream's 2nd Annual Party in the Paddock Derby party. The fundraising event was a heartwarming display of community spirit and commitment to Mane Stream's mission. The atmosphere was alive with enthusiasm as guests embraced the Derby theme, immersing themselves in an evening of celebration and support for Mane Stream's programs. Against the backdrop of rolling pastures, attendees were treated to demonstrations by participants from Mane Stream's adaptive riding and therapy programs, showcasing the profound impact of equine-assisted activities.
thank you event sponsors!
WIN - $3,250
The Greifeld Family
Kathy & Hal Kamine
Red Tail Farm
PLACE - $1,750
Amy Gimbel & John Sepede
Sell with LAVELLE
Keller Williams LUXURY International
Jeanne & Roger Rogalin
SHOW - $850
The Durden Family
Karen and Steve Kaufhold
The Saladino Family
Sudler Family Foundation
Derby Jockey Sponsors
Advantage Pools
The Bezer Family
The Cavalero Family
The Coloff-Verge Family
Pine Woods Farm
Melissa and Mike Renfer
Jeanne and Roger Rogalin
The Food Architects delighted taste buds with a delectable array of warm dishes, perfectly complemented by handcrafted cocktails from Tito's Handmade Vodka, including the refreshing Oaks Lily and Strawberry Lemonade.
The evening was filled with Kentucky Derby-themed excitement, culminating in the exhilarating LIVE Kentucky Derby Race streaming, accompanied by spirited "betting" festivities.
Spirits soared, despite the nip in the air, buoyed by the warmth of camaraderie and a shared purpose: to raise funds for much-needed farm equipment. With our rusty 20+ year old equipment on its last legs, the sight of guest-turned-auctioneer, Mike Exton, perched in the tractor's bucket, rallying support for a paddle raise, underscored the urgency of the cause. Thanks to the generosity of attendees, Mane Stream will soon boast a gleaming new Kubota Tractor and Utility Vehicle, a testament to the power of community support.
The highlight, however, was the 2nd annual Mane Stream Stick Pony Derby. This year we opened it up to “jockeys” from the community as well as staff. “Jockeys” that raced included Riding Instructor Elke Phillips, Barn Manager Alex Willard, Occupational Therapist Emily Istvan, Board Member Madison Rezaei, event attendee Jennifer Chin, and a last-minute entry, Hadleigh Hendrickson, vied for victory in a thrilling display of equestrian skill 😉and determination. Quick out of the gate and fleet-footed over the jumps, Alex Willard blazed toward the finish line several lengths ahead of Elke making her the winner of the gorgeous sash of red roses.
The Hat contest added a dash of flair to the proceedings, with Laura Edelson's whimsical creation earning honors for its Mane Stream-inspired design, while Jill Dolan claimed the title for Best Overall and Kristin Halvey dazzled with her Most Creative entry.
The success of the 50/50 Raffle added to the jubilant atmosphere, with the lucky winner taking home an impressive $2,048. The grand prize winner for the Kentucky Derby was Michele Lawse, who went home with a bottle of Woodford Reserve Kentucky Derby 150th Edition Bourbon.
We hope everyone enjoyed the evening! All proceeds from the event go directly to support the children and adults with special needs who participate in Mane Stream’s adaptive riding, therapy services, summer camp, field trips, and Horses for Healing programs.
We are looking forward to seeing everyone again next year! Please mark your calendars for May 3, 2025...to celebrate Mane Stream and the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby!
Click here for all the Gif and Giggle pics! Party in the Paddock
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DEMONSTRATIONS: Viviana Henry-Wilson, David Santos, George Hoehn, Gemma Lawse, Daisy DeSimone, Madison Flanagan
EVENT VOLUNTEERS: Terri Andrechick, Avery Boarts, Tina Corcoran, Tess Coffey, Lola Dermody, Laura Edelson, Nancy Grossweiler, Grace Harvey, Leroy Hunninghake, Emma Iglesias, Elaine Milano, Janie Murphy, Kerry Scholz, Mary Ellen Yen
EVENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Tina Corcoran, Laura Edelson, Nancy Grossweiler, KJ Jiritano, Karen Kaufhold, Jesse and Kara McMahon, Kerry Scholz, Michele Stevens, Stacy Timko, Laurie Willard, Mary Ellen Yen
Special thanks to Wolfy Nicolaides who volunteered his photography services providing these great shots for your enjoyment.
