ROCK SPRINGS – The Rock Springs Main Street/Urban Renewal Agency has announced their annual fund-raising gala – Hats and Horses, a Kentucky Derby Viewing Party. Set for May 3 at the Broadway Theater, the event will feature heavy hors d’ouvres and cocktails. Additionally, attendees are asked to wear ‘Derby Attire’ including big hats and dapper suits. This year’s event is being co-chaired by Joanne Zotti and Stacy Jones.

According to Zotti, each year the Rock Springs Main Street/URA hosts an annual fund-raising gala. However, instead of the traditional dinner and dance event, they decided to try something new this year and settled on the Kentucky Derby viewing party.

“It should be a lot of fun and an original idea for the URA,” Zotti added.

Plans are just taking shape now, Zotti said. They’ve had an initial meeting but will start looking for auction items as the party will also feature a silent auction, wine pull and other contests and activities.

Jones said the funds from the viewing party will be used for projects produced by the Rock Springs Renewal Fund. The Rock Springs Renewal Fund, Inc. (RSRF) is a non-profit organization that runs parallel to the Main Street/Urban Renewal Agency. The RSRF holds a variety of community events throughout the year, all aimed at meeting the mission of redevelopment and revitalization of properties and businesses in the downtown area.

Seating is limited at the event so those wishing to attend are encouraged to get tickets early. Tickets are $50 each and available at the Rock Springs Chamber of Commerce or Rock Springs Main Street office.

Jones added that they are looking for new people to help organize the event and anyone interested can contact the Main Street/URA office at 307-352-1434 or attend the next meeting, February 4 at 4:00 p.m. at the Rock Springs Depot (501 S Main Street).