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Derby Day for Autism set for May 6

Daily Independent - 4/24/2017

April 24--ASHLAND -- The Kentucky Derby isn't just about a race for the Pathways to Bright Futures Foundation.

For the foundation, it is also a time to celebrate for a good cause at the annual Derby Day for Autism event on May 6. The gathering will begin at 5 p.m. at The Old Post Office on 17th Street. The event be more than just a viewing party.

A special appearance will be made by Chuck Hayes, a former University of Kentucky and National Basketball Association basketball player, who will be signing autographs and taking photos. Country music artist Jeremy McComb will also perform.

Scioto Ribber will have its smoker on location and will be serving up ribs and steak. Lori Cooksey, board president of the foundation, said the organization is still seeking corporate sponsors, and tickets are now available for $125 each.

"That gets you the dinner, all you can eat, all you can drink," she said.

There will also be a silent auction and a Derby hat and bowtie contest among guests. The race will be shown on multiple big screens.

Money raised from the event will go toward building a stand-alone autism center for Pathways, said Cooksey.

"One in 85 children is diagnosed with autism and that's nationally, but here in the Tri-State, you're looking at one out of 62, so the need is tremendous," she said.

Cooksey said some of the past money raised has also been used for a recent renovation that expanded Pathways autism services. She explained the importance of these amenities, saying early detection is key when it comes to the disease.

"It does increase their success rate of learning to be more able to be part of society and functioning as normal people," said Cooksey.

Last year's bash brought in $20,000 and she hopes to surpass that amount this year.

"We have a great community here, very supportive. There's lots of things going on, lots of needs, but we're hoping that people will be looking for a great time," she said.

Tickets for the event can be purchased by emailing Marshall Tyson at Marshall.Tyson@pathways-ky.org or calling (606) 329-8588, ext. 4128.

(606) 326-2653 |

radkins@dailyindependent.com

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