TOP PHOTO: The Down & Derby Ed Wheeler Memorial Fundraiser benefiting CHET (Community Health of East Tennessee) was held at ClaiHill Farm in LaFollette on Saturday. Attendees watch a daytime fireworks show sponsored by Pyro Shows.

By Charlotte Underwood

LAFOLLETTE, TN (WLAF) – The weather was perfect for Saturday’s Down & Derby Ed Wheeler Memorial Fundraiser benefiting CHET (Community Health of East Tennessee). The well attended event was held at ClaiHill Farm in LaFollette.

Taylor Dabney was named “Best Dressed Female.”

Community leaders and business owners turned out in number for the fun filled evening dedicated in honor of philanthropist Ed Wheeler, who was a staunch supporter of CHET.

Shirley and Mike Rogers at Saturday’s Down & Derby fundraiser for CHET.

The Down & Derby event is CHET’S largest fundraising event of the year. All funds raised from the event go directly to CHET and its programs. Donations help support programs such as CHET’s Health Clinic, Family Services Center, Recovery Court, Black Lung Clinic, Generation Hope and Imagination Library.

John Anderson was tabbed the “Best Dressed Male.” He’s pictured with his wife, Katherine Anderson (left), and Down & Derby Committee Chair Olivia Lobertini.

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

The honor of “Best Hat” went to Rissa Pryse.

John Anderson won best dressed male, while Taylor Dabney won best dressed female. 

J.J. Dower (left) and Codi Provins, both with Ayers Auction & Real Estate, conduct the auction at CHET’s fundraiser.

Chantena and Jeremy Cook won best dressed couple. Rissa Pryse won best hat!

Chantena and Jeremy Cook were named “Best Dressed Couple.”

This year’s Down & Derby “Biggest CHET Supporter Award” went to the folks at Exterior Home Solutions.

Event Committee member Raewyn Snodderly and husband John Snodderly at the Down & Derby Fundraising event for Community Health of East Tennessee held on Saturday.

The Down & Derby Fundraising Committee consists of Committee Chair, Olivia Lobertini, Katherine Anderson, Katherine Ayers, Hannah Bray, Donn Claiborne, Myranda Davis, Tracy Lobertini, Raewyn Snodderly, Elizabeth Tamer, Alison White and Emily Wilson. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 05/08/2023-6AM)

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