Hundreds of Carmichael Parks Foundation supporters dine during the 2024 Dinner in the Park fundraiser.

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Carmichael Parks Foundation’s “Dinner in the Park” gala on Sept. 6 will support youth programs and improvements to public reserves.

Entirely al-fresco, the fall soiree ambles over two hidden-gem locations. Guests enjoy pre-dinner sips among fragrant arbors in the Sutter Community Garden. In adjacent Jensen Botanical Gardens, tables are linen-draped for a moonlit meal.

Jazz giant Henry Robinett’s trio serenades the cocktail audience; Carmichael rock band Wasted Space provides dance music.

Carmichael Parks Foundation board members celebrate last year. They are Gary Hursh (back left), Michael Koerner, Ken Hall, Duane Faitel, Donna Miller (middle row left), Sue Boucher, Heidi Hull, Linda Martin, Lynn Jacoby-McClellan, Nick Bloise, Rosie Buck (front left) and Donna O’Neil.

Hosting up to 400 guests, the gala is a triumph for volunteer effort. The Park Foundation comprises Carmichael residents and business leaders who partner with local nonprofit organizations.

This year’s emcee is SMUD director Gregg Fishman.

Restauranteur Skip Wahl will excite auction bids. Prizes include a sushi demonstration dinner for eight, hosted on the American River bluffs. A limousine-guided tour of Jarvis Estate Winery (Napa Valley) will offer wine tasting for four. A two-day zip-line adventure among coastal redwoods includes gourmet meals and a tree-top yurt sleep-over.

Hawks Restaurant of Granite Bay will cater the three-course gala dinner.

Gala guests Sheryl Stewart (left) and Deanna Regalado chum up with Haystack Jack among sunflowers in Sutter Community Garden.

Now in its sixth year, the event remains a community favorite and usually sells out. Tickets are $150 per person. VIP tables seat eight people for $1,400.

Due to limited parking, attendees are encouraged to leave vehicles at Carmichael Elementary School, 6141 Sutter Ave., and take free shuttle services to and from the event.

Sponsors include Supervisor Rich Desmond, Robert and Kawanaa Buccola, Carol Dreyer, SMUD, Oakmont of Carmichael, Buck Automotive, Neumann Enterprises, San Juan Unified School District, BP Interiors, Hursh Law, Jaramillo & Borcyckowski Attorneys at Law and the Aerospace Museum.

For more information on the Dinner in the Park event, visit Carmichaelparksfoundation.org.