Kentucky Derby Day came to life Thursday at Jonesbrook Estates Assisted Living in Falls City with a fun-filled afternoon of stick-horse racing, cheering residents, and plenty of smiles.

MSC Radio’s John Nixon added a unique accomplishment to his broadcasting career by serving as the official announcer for the races, bringing excitement and energy to the event.

The jockeys for the day were first grade students from Sacred Heart School, led by teacher Sue Ebel. The students raced their “wild herd” of stick horses around a specially prepared track while residents gathered outside on a sunny, windy afternoon to cheer them on.

After the races, residents helped present medals to the young riders, making the event especially memorable for the students.

Sherry Aitken and the staff at Jonesbrook Estates organized Derby Day festivities and received praise for creating the race track and grandstand area that brought the Kentucky Derby spirit to Falls City.