Pictured are Citrus Heights Mayor Jayna Karpinski-Costa (left) and Sheri Merrick, the Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce executive director and Stones Gambling Hall “21” Award 2025 recipient. Photo courtesy of Cristina Guccione

CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) – Sheri Merrick, the Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce executive director, was named the 2025 recipient of the 10th annual Stones Gambling Hall “21” Award on Dec. 3.

The annual award is presented to a community member who has shown exemplary commitment and dedication to the advancement of the City of Citrus Heights. The recipient must also demonstrate a history of leadership and a passion for making a difference and giving back.

During her tenure as executive director, Merrick has welcomed more than 150 new members to the chamber, launched and revitalized cornerstone programs including Commerce Connections, and strengthened economic development with organizations including SMUD, San Juan Unified School District, Sunrise Marketplace and many Citrus Heights nonprofit organizations.

The 2025 Stones Gambling Hall “21” Award ceremony had a large turnout, with members of the Citrus Heights City Council, county and state representatives present. Photo courtesy of Cristina Guccione

Merrick has developed a multi-year strategic plan to modernize the chamber of commerce with a strong public presence. She was previously named 7th Assembly District Woman of the Year by Assemblyman Josh Hoover in 2024.

Among speakers at the Dec. 3 presentation and reception at Stones Gambling Hall were State Sen. Roger Niello; Stones Gambling Hall partner Kermit Schayltz; Forrest Johnson, field representative for Sacramento County Supervisor Rosario Rodriguez; Josh Gumacal, field representative for Congressman Ami Bera; and Ian Jasiewicz, field representative for Assemblyman Josh Hoover. They each presented Merrick with a certificate of recognition from their respective offices.

Also in attendance were the Citrus Heights City Council, Citrus Heights City Manager Ash Feeney, Citrus Heights Police Chief Alex Turcotte who took home the award last year, and community members.

Pictured are Josh Gumacal, field representative for Congressman Ami Bera (left) and Sherri Merrick, the Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce executive director and Stones Gambling Hall “21” Award 2025 recipient. Photo courtesy of Cristina Guccione

Stones Gambling Hall spokesperson Patrick Harbison emceed the event.

“I have a special place in my heart and my mind for chamber of commerce executives because I was one,” said Niello, who served as the executive director of Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce for three years.

“I know how difficult and challenging that job is and she shines in that job,” Niello said, presenting Merrick with a California State senate resolution in recognition of the award.

Merrick, who became the Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce executive director in March 2024, said she found a sense of community in the chamber when she first moved to Citrus Heights as a single mom.

Sheri Merrick received a resolution from the office of District 7 Assemblyman Josh Hoover in recognition of receiving the 2025 Stones Gambling Hall “21” Award. Photo courtesy of Cristina Guccione

Of the honor, Merrick said, “I am humbled and honored to receive the Stones ‘21’ Award.”

“Thank you for believing in the work we're doing to support our businesses and strengthen our community,” Merrick said. “Chamber work is such a passion of mine and to be recognized for doing what I love is very special. Thank you to Stones and our community and please remember to support our local businesses!"