Hats and Horses Raised Funds for Dallas Symphony’s Education and Outreach Programs

Ginger Sager, Don & Barbara Daseke, Mari Epperson

The 2014 Wells Fargo Dallas Symphony Derby event on May 4 brought the atmosphere of the famous Kentucky Derby to Dallas, complete with hats, horses and mint juleps. It marked the seventeenth year the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League has partnered with presenting sponsor Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie and the tenth year with title sponsor Wells Fargo.

Ronda Joines & Sam Spicer

The Derby included a buffet lunch in the Silks Dining Room overlooking the final turn and finish line of the track, as well as live and silent auctions with fantastic prizes. In addition, wagers on any horse race were possible with the help of a personal valet. Barbara and Don Daseke served as Honorary Chairs of the event. Ginger Sager is President of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League.

Guests had fun with a unique way of raising money. “Heads or Tails” was a spin on the old coin toss game. Guests purchased colored bead necklaces and, when the time came for the game, those with necklaces were told to choose heads or tails. They put their hands on top of their heads or their hands on their “tails”. The coin was tossed and those who lost had to step out. The last remaining person was the winner of a new mini-iPad. It added a fun way to raise additional funds.

Derby Chair Mari Epperson reminded the guests that the proceeds benefit the Dallas Symphony’s Education and Outreach Programs. “With the funds raised today, you are instrumental in keeping the music alive,” she said. “It’s the music that this event is all about.”

To learn more about the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League, visit https://www.dallassymphonyleague.com.

Photos by Mikon Haaksman