The Carmichael Chamber of Commerce annual gala toasts community leaders at the Milagro Centre. Honorees include restaurateur Skip Wahl (back left) Supervisor Rich Desmond, music store owner Scott Mandeville, Beavers Swim Team leader Jennifer Pope (front left) Brie Belcher (representing Christina DeCelle), Milagro Center figurehead Susan Pallotta-Davis, San Juan Education Foundation staffer Colleen Cadwallader, Heidi Sanborn (representing SMUD) and restaurateur Ismael Pantoja.

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Community glittered at a Carmichael Chamber of Commerce gala celebrating civic leaders last week. More than 150 supporters applauded honorees that included restaurateurs, store owners, nonprofit boosters and elected officers.

Susan Pallotta-Davis was hailed Person of the Year. The face of Carmichael’s Milagro Centre, Pallotta-Davis is married to the culinary center’s founder, Allan Davis and is active as a civic booster.

“It’s an incredible honor,” the honoree said. “I wouldn’t be standing here today without the support of my husband who inspires me every day, along with our awesome Milagro Centre team.

“This award is a testament to our collective effort and dedication to make the Carmichael community a better place,” Pallotta-Davis continued. “This journey has been extremely rewarding and I’m excited to continue working toward making a positive impact.”

Now in his second term as County Supervisor, Rich Desmond received a Public Service award.

“I’ve lived in Carmichael my whole life,” Desmond said. “I couldn’t be more grateful that my parents chose this community to raise a family and that I’ve been able to offer the same opportunity to my children. I’ll continue to serve Carmichael in every way I can, for as long as I can.”

Carmichael Seniors Club leaders Dave Mitchell and Valerie Hobin collect a Carmichael Spirit award from chamber board member Susan Statti (center).

Sharing Business Man of the Year honors were Tim’s Music Store owner Scott Mandeville and Skip’s Kitchen owner Skip Wahl.  Musician/retailer Mandeville established his retail and teaching emporium to Fair Oaks Boulevard eight years ago.

“Carmichael’s a vibrant and supportive community,” Mandeville said. “I’m delighted to be in the same room as business superstars the chamber is honoring at this event.”

Co-honoree Skip Wahl achieved equal kudos for his volunteer efforts and the success of his El Camino Avenue restaurant. “I feel very fortunate that the community has supported us for so long,” said Wahl. “We’re definitely blessed to have great staff, great customers and great friends.”

Business Woman of the Year Christina DeCelle has established Time Out Tavern (Carmichael) and Shenanigans Kitchen (Citrus Heights).

“Restaurants and bars are probably the toughest businesses,” DeCelle said.  “The road isn’t always easy. If you stay true to your purpose and never stop pushing forward, the rewards are beyond worth it." 

A Carmichael Legacy award crowned Rey Azteca restaurant founder Ismael Pantoja.

A new honor was specially minted for insurance broker and community pillar Katie Pexa. The Chamber of Commerce named the businesswoman, and former Carmichael honorary mayor, its first Trailblazer in Business.

Chamber of Commerce supporters celebrate. Dressed to impress are Supervisor Rich Desmond staffer Iris Austin (left), Honorary Mayor Kawanaa Carter, Chamber President Rosie Buck, Chamber director Brad Sanborn and former director Izzy DeLancey. 

Two Carmichael Spirit awards recognized perennial organizations: the Carmichael Seniors Club and the Carmichael Beavers Swim Team. Both have been community traditions for more than half a century.

Sacramento Municipal Utilities District (SMUD) was lauded as Chamber Champion for its support for the Chamber of Commerce and other local causes.

As Non-Profit of the Year, the San Juan Education Foundation receives a portion of gala proceeds.

Event sponsors included Carol Dreyer; Supervisor Rich Desmond; SMUD; Milagro Center; Bowen Law Firm; San Juan Education Foundation; San Juan School District; Dr Kawanaa Carter and Robert Buccola; Katie Pexa Insurance; A and A Event Production; Bella Bru Café and Catering; and Buck Family Automotive.

More pictures from the Carmichael Chamber of Commerce Awards Dinner will appear in next week’s Carmichael Times.