The first Saturday in May is the traditional date for the world famous Kentucky Derby Race – also known as the “Run for the Roses”. If you are not planning on going to Louisville for the race, then plan on buying a ticket to The Derby Tea on Saturday, May 2 at 1:30 p.m. at the W. T. Bland Public Library (Mount Dora). You will be entertained by a short history of the Kentucky Derby, a taste of some of the traditional foods served at parties in Louisville and a demonstration of horsemanship by Captain Barry McKie. There will also be the Traditional Parade of Hats. So wear your best hat and participate. Tickets are $7.00 and may be purchased at the Circulation Desk – cash, check or credit is accepted. Seats are limited for this special tea so buy your tickets soon.

Captain Barry McKie discovered his love of horses at age of seven, and he has spent his life in the pursuit of mastering his craft. He joined The Household Cavalry (HHC) Lifeguard Regiment starting his twenty-seven year military career. He was commissioned as a Riding Master, placing him in charge of instructing the new Household Cavalry troopers and making them parade-ready in twenty weeks. After retiring from the British military in 1991, he emigrated to the U. S. with his family and became the Director of Entertainment of the Arabian Nights Dinner Attraction in Florida. From there he moved to Lake County working with the Lake County Boys Ranch and then starting his own business – the McKie Equine Center – specializing in training horses and riders.

The Derby Tea is sponsored by the Mount Dora Library Association. Many thanks to the Spice and Tea Exchange for donating the tea to be served at The Derby Tea. Also, The Secret Garden will give you 20% off any purchase if you show your Derby Tea ticket.

The Derby Tea will be held at the W. T. Bland Public Library located, 1995 N. Donnelly Street in Mount Dora. For additional information call (352) 735-7180 option 5.