Susan Pallotta Davis (center) will be honored as Carmichael “Person of the Year” on Feb. 6. She is flanked by Businesswoman of the Year Christina DecCelle (left), and Scott Mandeville and fellow Businessman of the Year Skip Wahl. Katie Pexa (right) takes a ‘Trailblazer in Business’ tribute.

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Businesswoman Susan Pallotta Davis has been named Carmichael’s 2025 Person of the Year.

Pallotta Davis is prominent in the success of the Milagro Centre, a re-purposed mall that has become a culinary destination for all Sacramento residents.

She and her husband, Milagro owner Allan Davis, are also pillars in local volunteerism and philanthropy.

Pallotta Davis will join other VIPs during the annual Community Awards Dinner on Feb. 6. The gala is presented by the Carmichael Chamber of Commerce at the Milagro Centre ballroom.

Tributes will flow thick and fast. Bar/restaurant owner Christina DeCelle will receive Businesswoman of the Year kudos. Two Carmichael pillars will jointly accept Businessman of the Year awards: they are Scott Mandeville of Tim’s Music Plaza and Skip’s Kitchen owner Skip Wahl.

Recipients are selected by Chamber of Commerce members with input from other local leaders. A nonprofit organization is annually picked to share event proceeds.

A new honor was specially designed for insurance broker and volunteer Katie Pexa.

“While considering nominations for 2025, we found Katie’s name in almost every category,” explained Chamber of Commerce President Rosie Buck. “She’s made a huge impact in many areas, so we created a new award. Katie is our first ‘Trailblazer in Business.’”

A public service award goes to Rich Desmond, now beginning his second term as a county supervisor.

A Carmichael Legacy award will crown Rey Azteca restaurant founder Ismael Pantoja.

The Carmichael Spirit award honors two perennial organizations: 55-year-old Carmichael Seniors Club and 60-year-old Carmichael Beavers Swim Team.

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

Supervisor Rich Desmond (left) will receive an award for Public Service. Restaurateur Ismael Pantoja will be lauded for “Community Legacy” in establishing his Rey Azteca and Cantina Azteca restaurants.

San Juan Education Foundation benefits as Non-Profit of the Year.

Principal honoree Pallotta Davis is a glamorous mom who shares 12 grandchildren with her husband. She retired from a 30-year telecommunications career six years ago and now gives her energy to the day-to-day running of the Milagro Centre. The volunteer has also found time to boost many nonprofit organizations.

The honor puts Pallotta Davis with exulted company. Since 2010, high-profile sports celebrities, media figures, elected leaders and activists have received the title. 

“I’m surprised and thrilled,” Pallotta Davis said. “I’ve always done my best to promote community improvement and business. I feel this award recognizes both my husband and me. Allan and I would do anything for our community.”

The Feb. 6 gala includes a meal by Bella Bru Catering. Among raffles and silent auctions, guests will bid on bespoke bakery desserts. Dress is business or cocktail attire. Doors open at 6 p.m. Admission is $120 per person.

Table and event sponsorships are available. For information or reservations, visit www.carmichaelchamber.com.