I’m thinking one Governor’s Derby breakfast is enough

A press release from the Governor’s Office said about 12,000 guests are expected at the annual Governor’s Derby Breakfast on Saturday in Frankfort.

I went to one Derby breakfast years ago with the late Sue Wahlgren, who wrote a social column for the paper until her death in 1994. I can’t imagine going now, and standing in line with thousands of people to eat breakfast.

It was a big deal in the early 70’s because Sue knew the movers and shakers at the time. She also knew the first names of some of the parking lot attendants and the wait staff.

I was just thinking…

What would it be like to go this weekend, 30-plus years later?

Serving hours are from 7 to 11 a.m. with about 70 workers from the Kentucky Department of Parks serving more than 2,000 pounds of country ham, 15,000 biscuits and servings of cheese grits, 25,000 scrambled eggs, and 1,200 pounds of sausage.

The earlier I arrive, the fresher the workers. I know the food will be replenished often, but what about 70 workers dealing with 12,000 people?

So, if I plan to arrive early to find parking, catch the shuttle, and maneuver the lines, I must leave Lexington about 6 a.m. The weather forecast calls for scattered thunderstorms. I’ll need rain gear. Maybe I should plan to leave at 5:45 a.m.

I distinctly remember my first Derby breakfast. It was a beautiful May day. Warm and sunny. I didn’t have to drive, find parking, or wait in line. I was excited to be included in such a festive occasion. It was the season of prosperity and the food arrangements were stunning.

But, I’m still thinking…
Now, I know how to make cheese grits, bake my own country ham, make biscuits from scratch, and where to find the best Kentucky-made sausage.

I also know the best restaurant to go to for breakfast on Saturday morning.

I’m also thinking…
Seeing the Derby breakfast through the eyes of a Herald-Leader photographer is probably the best way to go. There’ll be pictures in Sunday’s special Derby section.