TOP PHOTO: For the first time since 2019, CHET hosted its annual Down & Derby fundraiser over the weekend.

Codi and Paul Provins with Ayers Auction & Real Estate kept the live auction hopping.

By Charlotte Underwood 

LAFOLLETTE, TN (WLAF) – It was a sold out event for the Down & Derby Ed Wheeler Memorial Fundraiser benefiting CHET (Community Health of East Tennessee) on Saturday at ClaiHill Farm.

The county turned up in its finest derby style of bright colors, big hats and giving hearts. 

Campbell High Student-Athletes Garrett Medley, Sadie Cox and Senator Ken Yager attended CHET’s Down & Derby Fundraiser Saturday at Claihill Farm.

All funds raised at the event will go directly to CHET and its programs. Donations help support programs such as CHET’s Health Clinic, Family Services Center, Recovery Court, Generation Hope and Financial Empowerment. 

Brian Costello won the best dressed male award and the biggest supporter award.
Down & Derby Committee Chair Olivia Lobertini thanked everyone for their support.

On behalf of CHET and the “Down & Derby” Event Committee, this year’s fundraising event was dedicated to honor local philanthropist Ed Wheeler, who passed away last year. According to the event committee, “Ed’s philanthropic enthusiasm consistently supported our endeavor to raise funds and awareness for an organization near and dear to his heart. Ed Wheeler will always be part of us and of this event.”

The best dressed couple was Hayli England and Thomas McAfee.

After dinner and drinks, guests watched the Derby, enjoyed daytime fireworks, best dressed awards and a live auction.  

The special guest of the evening was Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs with Mary Williams.

Senator Ken Yager and several other political officials were also in attendance, as were many community leaders and businesses owners. 

Debbie Farmer, Jo Anne McCloud Myers and Sandi McCloud Gannon at CHET’s Down & Derby Fundraiser.

The Down & Derby Fundraising Committee consisted of Committee Chair, Olivia Lobertini, Katherine Anderson, Myranda Davis, Debbie Farmer, Linda Kobel, Tracy Lobertini, Raewyn Snodderly and Alison White.

Maggie Inscho and Shirley Fox Rogers looking lovely in their hats.

The Committee extended its thanks to Special Guest Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs, as well as to all its sponsors. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 05/09/2022-6AM)