I am excited for the 12^th Annual Smoke on the Plains BBQ & Music Fest at High Park. A few new events this year include the Derby Rotary Club’s Hot Wheels for Hot Meals Car Show on June 10 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and the Derby Recreation Commission’s Smokin’ 5K on June 10 at 7:30 a.m.

As Manager, I feel it’s essential to recognize the importance of City employees in helping make Derby a great place to be. Our employees are the key pieces that keep the engine running smoothly for the entire organization. They work hard and often take on thankless jobs that are sometimes never seen by majority of the public.

April is National Volunteer Recognition month which celebrates the immense impact that volunteers have on their communities. This month we would like to say thank you to more than 100 volunteers who have given their time and talent to the Derby Senior Center. Senior Center members and community volunteers are the hearts and hands of the Derby Senior Center and are critical to the success of program operations.