The Ankeny Rotary Clubs, Noon and Evening, held their 12th major fundraiser, "Rotary Runs For the Roses", on Saturday evening, May 4th. The only disappointment was that Albaugh Family Stables entry in the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby, Catching Freedom, did not win the race. Thanks to Amy Ratekin, the main hall was decorated beautifully with red roses, bows, napkins, and hats. We cannot thank Amy enough for all her hard work and assistance with making this a very festive event and successful event. Most of the guests were dressed in typical "Derby" attire including too many fancy ladies hats to count.
Preliminary numbers for the event show income will be slightly less than last year primarily because that was no live dessert auction or 50/50 raffle. A highlight was the donations for our two paddle raisers setting a new high with a total of $30,000 being donated. Starts Right Here and the Ankeny Service Center will each be receiving $15,000. Preliminary income numbers compared to last year are as follows:
2023 2024
Silent Auction $19,921 $16,855
Live Auction 38,275 35,450
Paddle Raiser 28,390 30,000
Heads/Tails Beads -- 640
Mystery Bags -- 650
Race Raffle -- 1,880
Cash Donations 50 350
Total 86,586 $85,825
Desserts 4,975 --
50/50 Raffle 9,900 --
$101,461
Expenses are expected to be be less that last year and net income only slightly less. A final number will not be available until all invoices have been paid and ticket sales accounted for.
Special thank you to each of our co-chairs Brian Tiernan and Noel Fiscus, to our MC Tim Cox, and everyone that sold tickets, donated auction items, served on a committee, and attended the event. It took everyone to make the event enjoyable for all our guests and be a financial success. Congratulations and thank you to everyone!!
