Derby honorees commended on a job well done

I attended the fourth annual Mayor's Youth Awards program Wednesday night in the cafetorium at Derby Middle School. It was a large gathering of proud parents, students, siblings, and teachers.

Derby Mayor Tony Staffieri and Youth Service Director John Saccu hosted the event.

Tyler Stankye, a 2010 award recipient, addressed the group about the importance of community service and good manners and urged them to "focus on the little things."
He clearly had a good grasp on public speaking at a young age.

Stankye, a third-generation Eagle Scout, graduated earlier this month from Fairfield Prep and will attend George Washington University on a full ROTC scholarship.

The award recipients ranged from kindergartners to Derby High School seniors. Their various extra-curricular accomplishments, their community service, and their high academic achievement are something about which they all should be proud.

Staffieri congratulates Bradley School kindergartner Jessica Gerckens.

Here's wishing all the awardees - from the soon-to-be first graders all the way up to the soon-to-be college freshmen - continued success. Their futures look bright indeed.