Republican women hosting Derby fundraiser
The Neshoba County Republican Women’s Club is raising money for downtown beautification, helping businesses, and other people in the community through their first annual Kentucky Derby Party.
Dr. Hailey Thompson, head of the planning committee for the party, said the club is hoping to raise money for making downtown Philadelphia beautiful, helping businesses make their areas look nicer, helping with literacy in local schools, and more.
“We want to raise money to help the community,” Dr. Thompson said. “This will be the first annual party, since our club originated last year and received our charter in August 2022. This is the first group we’ve had here in Neshoba County.”
Dr. Thompson said the idea came from club member Rachel Kiepe, who said the party can be something fun for the public to enjoy and as a way of recruiting new members for the club.
“People can come and enjoy some good for a good cause,” Dr. Thompson said.
The party begins on Saturday, May 6 at 4 p.m. at the Fairview RV Resort, across from the Neshoba County Fairgrounds. It runs through the final Kentucky Derby Race around 7 p.m.
Dr. Thompson said the party attire includes Sunday afternoon fare such as big hats, heels for the ladies, suspenders and bow ties for the guys, pastel colors, and more. She said this attire is not mandatory, but encouraged for everyone to wear and have fun with.
“We’ll have multiple sponsorships, along with several local politicians sponsoring, such as State Sen. Jenifer Branning and State Rep. Scott Bounds,” Dr. Thompson said. “We’ll have the Kentucky Derby streaming live at the party.”
Activities during the party include a best hat contest people will vote on, and the winner will get a custom Mint Julep cup as an award. The party will also have traditional Kentucky Derby food such as Hot Browns and Mini Derby pies.
Tickets for the event are $25 each. The club is accepting sponsorships from businesses or individuals for $200, and sponsorships include two tickets, reserved indoor seating and a deluxe goody bag as well as a mention at the event and printed recognition in all attendee goody bags.
For more information about the Kentucky Derby Party, visit the Neshoba County Republican Women’s Group Facebook page.