Varanese Restaurant, located at 2106 Frankfort Avenue, will host the 29th Annual Billy's Burger Bash on Derby Day, Saturday, May 2 from 11:00pm to the wee hours of Sunday, May 3. The party, which is named for Emmy-winning freelance field producer for NBC's Kentucky Derby coverage Billy Rapaport, is free and open to anyone who has energy left after a long day of celebrating the 141st running of the Kentucky Derby. For years, the late Lamont Gillispie and his band 100 Proof performed blues music at the bash each year. Honoring Gillispie's passing on April 10 and keeping his blues music a tradition at the annual Bash, the Louisville Fats and the Rhythm Cats will perform at this year's event. Guests will also enjoy dancing, drink specials, and a simple, late night menu of appetizers, bar bites, burgers, and fries. For more information, please call (502) 899-9904, email letsdine@varanese.com, or log on towww.varanese.com. 

The Burger Bash tradition began when Rapaport wanted a place to relax with his media pals after a long week at the track. Rapaport is a two time Emmy award winner and has been an independent producer and director for over twenty years. He is a feature producer for NBC's figure skating, horse racing and gymnastics coverage. He has also helped to produce several theatrical efforts including "Grace and Glorie" and the Off-Broadway hit "Other People's Money." For more information, visit www.billyrapaport.com.