COLUSA, CA (MPG) – A sold-out crowd of about 400 people filled the venue Saturday, Jan. 17, for the Rotary Club of Colusa’s annual Nite at the Races dinner, an event that combined video horseracing, prizes, and fundraising to support local and international service projects.
The dinner marked a milestone year for the club as it entered into its second century of service. Jim Sherman, Rotary Club of Colusa president, welcomed guests and thanked sponsors, donors, volunteers, and community members for sustaining one of the organization’s longest-running traditions.
“Your enthusiasm and support made it clear that this decades-long tradition still has a place in our community,” Sherman said. “We are proud to keep the fun, fellowship, and video horseracing alive.”
Sherman highlighted recent Rotary accomplishments, including completion of the Levee Park Stair project, planting the club’s 100th tree, awarding college scholarships to five high school graduates, providing dinners at two Levitt Amp concerts, co-hosting Christmas Tyme in Colusa, sponsoring Colusa Founders Day and the State Duck Call Championship, and supporting the international ShelterBox program. He said the club plans to plant another 100 trees, grow its membership, and expand youth programs, scholarships, and hands-on service projects.
Past President Susan Meeker said the event reflected the strength of community support behind Rotary’s mission.
“This is what Rotary looks like at its best,” Meeker said. “When the community shows up like this, it allows us to keep investing back into Colusa and the people who live here.”
Frank Davison served as master of ceremonies, guiding attendees through the evening’s races and prize drawings. The event featured numerous prizes, including a popular Kentucky Derby hat contest that drew wide participation.
Several local and regional dignitaries were present, including Colusa City Treasurer Devin Kelley, Colusa County Supervisor Randy Wilson, Colusa County Superior Court Judges Brendan Farrell and Luke Steidlmayer, Sutter County Superior Court Judge Tahmina Morrow, Colusa County Treasurer Cindy Dillard, Colusa County District Attorney Matthew Beauchamp, and Colusa County Assessor Bob Buckner.
Proceeds from Nite at the Races support Rotary service projects, scholarships, and partnerships that benefit youth and community programs throughout Colusa County and beyond.