The program concluded with the Lifetime Achievement Award, presented to Randy Peters, founder of Randy Peters Catering and Event Planning. Photo courtesy of Looking Forward Photobooths and Flix in Motion

CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - A firefighter who mentors future leaders, a nonprofit empowering single mothers and a catering pioneer who has served the region for decades were among those honored during the 68th Annual Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce Community Awards Dinner.

The annual event, held March 10 at the Citrus Heights Event Center, recognized eight individuals and organizations for their contributions to public safety, business, civic leadership and community service. The program, emceed by Citrus Heights Police Chief Alex Turcotte, drew local officials, business leaders and residents for an evening of recognition and fundraising.

Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce Board Chair Amanda Camacho opened the program by highlighting the collective effort behind the city’s success.

“It is truly an honor to stand before you tonight as we celebrate the individuals and organizations that make Citrus Heights such a special place,” Camacho said. “Our community thrives because of the dedication, innovation and hard work of so many in this room.”

Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce Board Chair Amanda Camacho (left) recognized immediate past board chair Dr. Gabrielle Rasi (right) for leading the chamber during a period of transition. Photo courtesy of Looking Forward Photobooths and Flix in Motion

Camacho also recognized immediate past board chair Dr. Gabrielle Rasi for leading the chamber during a period of transition.

Rasi said serving the chamber and community was deeply meaningful.

“It was the greatest honor to serve this community,” Rasi said. “I love our town. I love our city. And it’s an honor to represent all of you.”

Among the evening’s honorees was Officer Hayden LaCurelle, named Police Officer of the Year. Turcotte said LaCurelle’s proactive work with local businesses helped address retail theft and strengthen partnerships across the community.

“Through his relentless efforts in combating retail theft, Hayden successfully recovered thousands of dollars in stolen merchandise for local businesses,” Turcotte said. “His dedication reflects the true spirit of community policing.”

Captain Terrence Manley of the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District received the Firefighter of the Year honor, also recognized as the district’s Suppression Member of the Year.

Firefighter of the Year honoree, Captain Terrence Manley of the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District participated in the thrilling “dessert dash” where he picked a delicious tiramisu. Photo courtesy of Looking Forward Photobooths and Flix in Motion

Assistant Fire Chief Joe Aldrich said Manley’s leadership and mentorship have helped strengthen the department.

“His leadership and devotion to duty far exceed expectations,” Aldrich said. “What really sets Captain Manley apart is his commitment to mentoring and fostering a strong culture of trust and empowerment.”

Manley said serving the community has been a privilege.

The Renee Larscheid Ambassador of the Year award was presented to Annah Rulon. The award is named for longtime chamber leader Renee Larscheid, who spoke about the importance of the ambassador program.

“Our ambassadors are truly the heart of the chamber,” Larscheid said. “They are the friendly faces that welcome members, celebrate ribbon cuttings and show up again and again to support our businesses and our community.”

Community Advocate of the Year was awarded to Citrus Heights City Manager Ash Feeney. Presenter Dr. Rasi said Feeney’s leadership has helped strengthen partnerships between the city and the business community.

“Strong communities require care, attention and dedication to help them grow,” Rasi said.

Community Advocate of the Year was awarded to Citrus Heights City Manager Ash Feeney. Photo courtesy of Looking Forward Photobooths and Flix in Motion

Feeney thanked the audience and reflected on the city’s future.

“Citrus Heights is a fantastic community with solid roots,” Feeney said. “Our future is very bright. It takes a community, and you’re all part of it.”

The City Staff Chamber Champion Award went to Community Development Director Casey Kempenaar, recognized for helping businesses navigate city processes and move projects forward.

Kempenaar said his approach is rooted in a simple principle.

“I grew up in a scouting environment, and we learned to always leave the place better than we found it,” he said. “Every day we’re trying to make our business community a little bit better.”

The chamber also honored organizations making an impact in the local economy and community.

Harris Industrial Gases was named Small Business of the Year. Chamber Vice Chair Colin Wallace said the company’s history reflects the spirit of small business.

“This year’s small business of the year has been doing exactly that for 90 years,” Wallace said. “Ninety years of innovation, dedication and supporting industries that keep our region moving forward.”

Company President Kathleen Harris said the business has grown far beyond its beginnings.

“We started with two men,” Harris said. “Now we have four facilities in two states and 45 employees.”

Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce ambassadors smile alongside the Renee Larscheid Ambassador of the Year Annah Rulon (center). Photo courtesy of Looking Forward Photobooths and Flix in Motion

Single Mom Strong received the Nonprofit of the Year award. The organization provides mentorship, life skills programs and financial literacy support for single mothers.

Presenter Cynthia Lee said the organization’s work extends far beyond its programs.

“What makes this organization special isn’t just the programs they provide, it’s the community they have created,” Lee said.

Founder Tara Taylor said the nonprofit began with a simple idea and a desire to support families.

“When we came to Citrus Heights, we were a girl with a dream,” Taylor said. “Now we are nine years in, and we are making a difference in this region.”

A portion of the evening’s proceeds was donated to the organization.

The program concluded with the Lifetime Achievement Award, presented to Randy Peters, founder of Randy Peters Catering and Event Planning. Presenter Franklin Burris said Peters’ work has helped shape countless community gatherings across the region.

“Through his generosity, he has helped strengthen the fabric of our community,” Burris said.

The evening also included a “dessert dash,” where tables bid for their favorite desserts, with remaining treats raffled afterward. The program ended with a door prize drawing that included a $1,000 gift card to Kenny G & Company Fine Jewelry or a professional landscape design and turf installation from Artificial Grass Depot.

The City Staff Chamber Champion Award went to Community Development Director Casey Kempenaar, recognized for helping businesses navigate city processes and move projects forward. Photo courtesy of Looking Forward Photobooths and Flix in Motion