The Lyman Allyn presents its Spring Gala on Saturday, May 3, from 5 to 10 p.m. This year's event will honor Admiral Robert J. Papp, Jr., commandant of the United States Coast Guard, and his wife, Linda. Papp is retiring from active duty on May 30.

The theme of this year's event is "Derby Day in New London," with Derby-inspired cocktails and Southern-style hors d'oeuvres; a silent auction followed by dinner; and bluegrass music provided by The Goodtime String Band. Tickets are available at www.lymanallyn.org.

Dinner tickets are $150 and patron dinner tickets are $250. Proceeds from the gala will benefit the Lyman Allyn's Yellow Bus Fund, which funds or subsidizes school field trips for New London County and southeastern Connecticut schools.