Grammy-nominated sax player Andrey Chumt presents a dinner show for guests at the Carmichael Park Foundation’s annual Dinner in the Parks gala. Dancing to Carmichael rock band Wasted Space followed.

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - A record individual donation boosted funds for the Carmichael Parks Foundation at the Sept. 19 Dinner in the Parks gala.

Neurological surgeon and former Carmichael Honorary Mayor Dr. Kawanaa Carter and her attorney husband Robert Buccola gave $25,000 to the cause.

Although the Carmichael couple did not attend the event. An announcement of their benevolence was met with cheers at the foundation fundraiser, held in Jensen Botanical Gardens.

Carmichael Parks Foundation President and gala organizer Rosie Buck (seated, left) is joined by family and friends.

“The donation was a last-minute surprise and a wonderful way to kick off our evening,” said Foundation president Rosie Buck. “We’re thrilled this wonderful couple wanted to show their support for support local youth and families.”

(Days later, when thanked for their generosity, Dr. Kawanaa Carter replied: “My husband and I are committed to helping young people. It’s important to give back within your own community. That's what makes communities flourish.”)

Almost 200 supporters dined, danced and donated at the moonlit celebration.

Music was a big part of the event. As guests arrived, woodwind soloists serenaded the path from Sutter Avenue communal allotments to Jensen Garden’s meadow. Grammy-nominated sax player Andrey Chumt presented a dinner show of pop classics.

SMUD Director Heidi Sanborn (fourth from right) gathers staffers and friends. The utility district is among event sponsors.

Written for the occasion and presented with video of Carmichael beauty spots, a new local anthem was debuted. ‘Under These Trees’ eulogized Carmichael pioneers and visionaries who established parks for the enjoyment of future generations. “The song was a year in the making," said Rosie Buck. “I looked around after we played the recording and couldn't see a dry eye anywhere.”

To complete the musical menu, Carmichael rock band Wasted Space played for after-dessert dancing.

Restaurateur and volunteer emcee Skip Wahl encouraged fund-a-need donations that totaled over $31,000.

Milagro Centre owners Susan and Allan Davis (seated) host a table of community boosters.

In all, a record bounty of more than $56,000 was raised. Proceeds will fund activities, programs and beautification in parks administered by Carmichael Recreation and Park District.

Event sponsors included: Roger and Carol Wieckowski; SMUD; Supervisor Rich Desmond; Shogun Sushi; San Juan School District; Carmichael Chamber of Commerce; Carmichael Water District, Gary Hursh Law Office; Jaramillo and Borcyckowski Attorneys; Carmichael Kiwanis; Buck Family Automotive; Assemblyman Josh Hoover; Senator Roger Niello; I Fit Golf; River City Brewing Company.

To donate or learn about Carmichael Parks Foundation at www.carmichaelparksfoundation.org