CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Baubles, bangles and two bright-eyed candidates were upstaged by an eight-week-old puppy at the Carmichael Chamber of Commerce Mayoral Mingle event.

Real estate agent Ronnie Sylvia fielded a diamond ring (donated by Sharif Jewelers) for silent auction. Raffle baskets and many bijoux packages tempted supporters. But a velvet-nosed Pembroke corgi scampered to the aid of fitness instructor Kerri Mandes. Registered breeder Margaret Temple donated the pure-bred baby girl to help her friend’s mayoral campaign. Bids began at $900; rival puppy-lovers upped the ante to $1250 before a victor was declared.

Though Aquamarine Jewelry store owner Aiman Nasrawi made the purchase; his niece and employee Carmen Madden took the cuddly armful home. “She’s getting married in November,” explained her boss. “When we arrived at the event, Carmen took one look at the puppy and fell in love. My wife and I quietly agreed it would be the perfect wedding present for her.”

Many bids later, the winner was decided. “My niece congratulated me,” said Nasrawi. “When my wife said the puppy was her gift, she burst into tears. She calls her Luna. Luna’s potty-trained, she sits on command and has a sweet personality. When Carmen brings her to work, my customers love her. One came back twice and brought a girlfriend to see her. She’s good for business.”

Nasrawi also benefited Kerri Mandes’ campaign by donating a diamond pendant for silent auction. “It was an expensive day for me,” agreed the jeweler. “But mayoral fundraising helps charity, and the Chamber of Commerce helps our community. It’s important for me to give back.”

Fitness instructor Kerri Mandes’ campaign has WEAVE as a co-beneficiary. Contact Mandes at (916) 217-5699. Rival Ronnie Sylvia’s fundraising will aid Carmichael Kiwanis Club. Contact the candidate at (916) 799-6170.

Learn about upcoming mayoral fundraiser events at  www.carmichaelchamberofcommerce.com.