Popular event is being co-chaired by KMOX’s Carol A. Daniel and community leader Linda M. Finerty; KMOV’s Jasmine Huda will emcee
 

ST. LOUIS, April 22, 2015 — Forest Park Forever will host the 25th Annual Hiram W. Leffingwell Award “Hat” Luncheon on Thursday, June 4, 2015, at the World’s Fair Pavilion in Forest Park to help raise funds for ongoing maintenance of this beloved civic treasure. The organization hopes to exceed the success of last year’s event, where 1,000-plus attendees raised more than $340,000 for the Park.

Forest Park Forever is pleased to announce that its Women’s Committee Co-Chairs, Carol A. Daniel and Linda M. Finerty, will spearhead this year’s luncheon. KMOX News Anchor Carol A. Daniel has spent two decades in St. Louis news and media, anchoring, reporting and writing. Community Leader Linda M. Finerty is active in a wide range of organizations and causes including serving as President of the Board of Directors for Ready Readers, as a Board member of the St. Louis Reparatory Theatre Company and as a member of the Saint Louis Art Museum’s Friends Board.

Just as it did 25 years ago when it organized the first Hat Luncheon, The Women’s Committee of Forest Park Forever is coming together to support a special improvement project in Forest Park. In 1991, that project was restoring the Nathan Frank Bandstand; this year, their focus turns to the beloved Cascades, known also as “Flegel Falls.” Forest Park Forever will use proceeds from this year’s luncheon to repair and stabilize the Cascades for visitors today and in the future. Individuals interested in supporting this cause should visit forestparkforever.org/cascades.

This year’s Leffingwell Award will honor the Founding Members of the Women’s Committee for their pioneering spirit and remarkable support. Over the last 25 years, these women have raised more than $6 million for the betterment of Forest Park for the enjoyment of millions.

In the tradition of the event, luncheon attendees will wear extravagant hats for the Stifel Hat Contest, where spirited winners will be announced before the event concludes. Categories for the competition include “Romantic,” “Whimsical,” “Vintage,” Fascinator, “Silver,” “Best Male” and an overall “Best in Show.” In addition to individual winners, awards will be given for “Best Hat at Each Table” and “Best Theme for an Entire Table.” 

Due to the generous support of many sponsors, no attendee will walk away empty-handed. Every guest will receive a commemorative gift sponsored by the Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center.

Those interested in attending the luncheon should purchase tickets as soon as possible. The reception will begin at 11:15 a.m. with the luncheon to follow at 12:00 p.m. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (314) 367-PARK or visit forestparkforever.org/hatluncheon. Join us for this celebratory event and take part in shaping Forest Park history for the next 25 years and beyond.

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About Forest Park Forever

In 1986, Forest Park Forever, a private, not-for-profit organization, was founded to work in partnership with the City of St. Louis and the Department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry to restore, maintain and sustain Forest Park as one of America’s great urban public parks for the enjoyment of all – now and forever.