Pictured from left to right are: Co-owners Michael Thomas, Dustin Nicolarsen, and Gene Glasco
On August 11, 2011 The Arcadia Historical Society observed the Derby Restaurant’s 90th Anniversary with the commemoration of a distinctive Marker, one of eight Markers the Society has placed in recognition of historical Arcadia places and things throughout the city of Arcadia.
The turnout for this event was impressive and noteworthy. Attending the Marker dedication was Arcadia Mayor Gary Kovacic, and Mayor Pro-Tem Robert Harbicht along with City Manger Don Penman, newly appointed Police Chief Robert Gutherie, Fire Chief Tony Trabbie, and various other city department heads and residents. Co-owners Dustin Nicolarsen and Michael Thomas were congratulated by Arcadia Historical Society President, Gene Glasco for this milestone event.
After sharing a personal anecdote from Glasco’s childhood memories of The Derby, Glasco and Derby owners Nicolarsen and Thomas recited a count down, then pulled the blue shroud covering their new Marker, unveiling an interesting historical chronology and pictorial history professionally researched and written by Society Directors and Marker sub-committee members Sandy Snider and Jackie O’Sullivan.
Certificates were given to the Derby owners by Mayor Kovacic representing the City of Arcadia, as well as other county and state representatives, including a commendation from Congressman David Drier. The Arcadia Historical Society also recognized this memorable event with framed certificate presented by Glasco, expressing the Arcadia Historical Society’s appreciation for the Derby’s preservation of local history and its storied connection to thoroughbred racing and excellent culinary reputation.
