05/20/2026
A great way to get involved in our neighborhood is through the DRCA!
Dear Del Ray Neighbors,
May is here, and with it comes one of my favorite reminders of why this neighborhood is so special: the House and Garden Tour. Events like this one don't happen by accident. They happen because people who love Del Ray show up, pitch in, and make things happen together. That's the DRCA in a nutshell, and it's been that way since 1954.
I'm proud to say that this Executive Board has done exactly that. For four years, with minimal turnover, this team has worked alongside all of you to keep the Chili Cook Off running, GardenFest blooming, First Thursdays lively, and National Night Out strong. We've raised money for local charities, kept a close eye on land use decisions, engaged with our city leaders, police, and sheriff, and maintained active committees focused on parks, history, traffic calming, and more. It has been an honor.
Which brings me to something important I need to share with you.
As we look ahead to the 2026–2027 year, we will need new officers for the DRCA. Our President and Vice President are term limited, and we have some other board roles that could be open if existing officers shuffle to other roles.
As a reminder, DRCA’s bylaws set officer roles for: President, Vice President, Membership Director, Activities Director, Secretary, Treasurer, and CIO/Admin.
DRCA doesn't run on autopilot. It runs on neighbors who believe that a well-organized, engaged civic association makes Del Ray a better place to live. This coming year will also be a critical one: the Board intends to take a serious look at our bylaws and organizational structure to make sure DRCA is built to thrive for the next generation of Del Ray residents, not just the next year.
For that work to happen, we need leadership.
If you've ever thought "someone should do something about that," this is your chance to be that someone. If you are, or you know a neighbor who is passionate about this community, organized, and ready to serve — please put in a nomination for executive board. And if you have ideas, energy, or a few hours to give as a volunteer in any capacity, we want to hear from you too.
Please send officer nominations for yourself or others to [email protected] , and don't hesitate to reach out to any of us directly to talk it through. You don't have to have a specific role in mind; we'll find the right fit. We'll have the slate set by next month's meeting and pick up with regular DRCA meetings in September.
Del Ray is worth it. I know that because you've shown me so, again and again.
With gratitude,
Tim Laderach President, Del Ray Citizens Association
