by Bea Peterson
On Thursday evening, May 10, at Ferrara’s Restaurant, members of the Derby Club presented St. Mary’s Academy staff members with a check for $500 for the SMA Roof Fund. A drive to replace the school roof is underway. Estimated cost for the project is over $100,000.
Derby Club President Joan James, a SMA Alumna, said, “Derby Club members consider it an honor to participate in this fund-raiser because St. Mary’s Academy is so vital to our community. SMA educates the entire child in mind, body and spirit. Children of all denominations in our community, from pre-k through eighth grade, attend the school.” This year SMA is celebrating 120 years of excellence in Catholic education.
James added that most people in the community are aware of the fact the school building roof is in dire need of a complete replacement. She concluded, “Together, we can raise a new roof!”
The Derby Club was formed in May of 1935 when John and Louis Wirmusky and several people at the American House pooled their money for a bet on the Kentucky Derby and won. The Derby Club was formed from those winnings.
As the membership increased, through dues, clam steams and other events sponsored by the Club, their assets increased. Over the years the Club has donated to youth sports, end of the year awards at both SMA and Hoosick Falls Central School and other community projects as requested. The Club continues to serve the local community in the same way to this day. Approximately ten new members will be sworn in at the Club’s June 7 meeting. This year marks the 76th Anniversary of the Club.
