Derby Day Dinner Raises Support for Round Top Family Library

On a picture-perfect Kentucky Derby evening last Saturday, Round Top Family Library supporters gathered for an unforgettable “Run for the Roses” Derby Day Dinner hosted by John Cone and Greg Fourticq, owners of the beautiful Red Antler Hotel in Round Top. The sold-out event benefitted Round Top Family Library and celebrated the very best of community, generosity, hospitality, and timeless Derby tradition. Following the previous day’s soaking spring rains, guests were welcomed by ideal weather and glowing sunshine as cocktail hour began poolside surrounding the stunning James Cabana.

From the moment guests arrived, it was clear that every detail of the evening had been thoughtfully and beautifully curated.

The setting itself was breathtaking. Fresh-cut roses in vibrant shades of crimson, blush, ivory, coral, and gold overflowed from nearly every surface inside the James Cabana, creating a floral spectacle worthy of Churchill Downs. Kentucky Derby-inspired linens and elegant china dressed the tables, while guests — adorned in seersucker suits, Derby dresses, fascinators, and grand hats — brought the spirit and pageantry of the Derby to life.

Guests mingled over signature mint juleps crafted with generous support from Blade and Bow and enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres prepared by Royer’s Cafe. Although minor technical difficulties briefly interrupted the televised running of the Kentucky Derby, guests enthusiastically gathered around their phones to watch the race together — a charming and memorable moment that only added to the camaraderie and fun of the evening.

Following cocktail hour, guests were invited inside for an elegant four-course seated dinner prepared by Royer’s Cafe and paired with exceptional wines generously provided by Caymus Vineyards.

As dinner commenced, RTFL Board Member Sofia Massey welcomed guests and shared heartfelt remarks about the impact of the library’s free programs and services offered to the community. She spoke passionately about RTFL’s mission to serve children, families, homeschool students, afterschool participants, and lifelong learners throughout the region, emphasizing how fundraising events like “Run for the Roses” make those opportunities possible.

Host John Cone then welcomed attendees and introduced an additional fundraising surprise for the evening — Derby Chips — which entered participants into a special drawing for a magnum of Caymus wine, a Royer’s Gift Certificate and a two-night stay at Red Antler Hotel. The Derby Chips sold out within minutes, further elevating the already generous spirit filling the room.

Dinner service concluded with a beloved Kentucky Derby classic: warm Royer’s Derby Pie served alongside Blue Bell Ice Cream — the perfect ending to an extraordinary evening. Round Top Family Library extends its deepest gratitude to hosts John Cone and Greg Fourticq, who generously donated 100% of all ticket sales and Derby Chip proceeds to RTFL. The library also wishes to thank Royer’s Cafe, Blade and Bow Spirits, and Caymus Vineyards for underwriting the evening’s food and beverage offerings through their generous support.

“Community is truly at the heart of everything RTFL does,” shared John Cone and Greg Fourticq. “The ‘Run for the Roses’ dinner was a beautiful reflection of the generosity, kindness, and spirit that make Round Top such a special place. It was an evening overflowing not only with roses, but with friendship, fellowship, and support for the library’s mission.”

For more information about Round Top Family Library and its free programs and services, visit www.ilovetoread. org.