Derby Day event brings Wilmington star back home

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY)–Fancy Spring dresses and big hats were among the highlights at the 5th Annual Kentucky Derby Style event at Smoke on the Water restaurant.

From pink suits to green hats, attendees showed off their style at the exclusive, Southern-inspired event, where guests celebrated the North Carolina Azalea Festival, as well as the charity and school being highlighted — the Alex Highsmith Family Foundation and the Barbara Highsmith Reading Academy of Wilmington.

Several speakers took the podium, including Mayor Bill Saffo, International School at Gregory Principal Hilda DeLeon, and pro linebacker Alex Highsmith.

Highsmith said it was great to be back home and give back to the community.

“Just to be here, to be at this event, come back home and see all these beautiful people is awesome,” Highsmith said. “I’m super grateful for the work we have done for the community and for what we are continuing to do.”

Alex Highsmith will be inducted into the Eugene Ashley High School Hall of Fame on Sunday.