Through ticket sales, sponsorships and a raffle, the nonprofit conservancy Forest Park Forever raised more than $450,000 for critical maintenance of the Park during its Hat Luncheon annual fundraiser on June 8.
The group welcomed more than 1,100 supporters to the World’s Fair Pavilion for the event, which is the single largest annual fundraiser for Forest Park.
Guests donned fancy and creative millinery for the Stifel Hat Contest with prizes awarded in several categories: Best Table Theme, Dapper Dudes, Fascinator, Romantic, Vintage, Whimsical, and People’s Choice.
This is the 27th year for the sold-out luncheon, presented by The Women’s Committee of Forest Park Forever and co-chairs Vanessa F. Cooksey, senior vice president of Community Affairs for Wells Fargo Advisors and Carolyn G. Farrell, a community leader and longtime Forest Park Forever volunteer.
KMOX News Anchor Carol Daniel served as mistress of ceremonies and shared the stage with speakers including Mayor Lyda Krewson, Forest Park Forever Board member Larry Thomas and Forest Park Forever president and Lesley S. Hoffarth, executive director.
