Wednesday night was one of those moments that reminds me why we built Folsom Times. As hundreds of people filled FLB Entertainment Center for our inaugural Best of Times Awards Celebration, I found myself standing in the middle of a crowd that radiated everything I love about this place—its energy, its pride, its generosity, and its unwavering support for one another.
What unfolded inside those familiar walls wasn’t just an awards ceremony. It was a celebration of community at its finest. And as I reflect on the evening, I am filled with gratitude for everyone who helped make it not only possible, but meaningful.
This night belonged to the businesses and organizations that pour themselves into serving Folsom. Seeing them walk through those doors, greeted by cheers, applause, and genuine appreciation from their neighbors, made every hour spent building this platform worthwhile. When we created the Best of Times Awards, we wanted something authentic—something that truly reflected the voices of the people who live here. On Wednesday, we saw the result of that vision come alive.
But as much as the night was about recognizing our community’s best, the celebration itself was made possible by so many who give their best to Folsom Times year-round. Our advertising partners are the backbone of what we do. Their ongoing support allows us to provide local news and storytelling daily—all completely local, locally owned, and locally operated. Without them, an event like this would still just be an idea.
I also want to thank the volunteers who stepped forward without hesitation. Reese and Adriana Punter, Linneah Flahive, Megan Frick, and others worked tirelessly behind the scenes, from guest check-in to award presentations. PJ Peterson Photography helped us capture the spirit of the night, creating memories we’ll be sharing for years to come. Their efforts are what transformed an idea into an unforgettable experience. Last but not least, I have to thank my wife for all of her assistance with this event, which we actually scheduled on her birthday in somewhat of a erroneous move but she was ok celebrating by helping us tremendously, as did Megan Frick… both Adam and I are lucky to have extremely patient and support better halves who put up with some our long hours using resulting from “hey we have a new idea.”
And then, there’s the Dreher family.
From the day Folsom Times launched in 2023, the Drehers—owners of FLB Entertainment Center—have been more than supporters. They have been partners, collaborators, and champions of our mission. When Adam Frick and I first discussed hosting a community celebration, Dan Dreher didn’t hesitate. He said, “Let’s do it,” and he meant it.
I say this sincerely: Wednesday night would not have happened without the Dreher family.
FLB Entertainment Center is more than a business. It’s one of Folsom’s longest-standing hubs of fun, connection, and community spirit. It contains one of the region’s greatest bowling centers—and honestly, what breathes “community” more than celebrating our local businesses inside a bowling alley? It felt right. It felt Folsom. And judging by the crowd’s response, I know many of you felt the same.
The turnout was overwhelming in the best possible way. The energy in the room was electric. Local restaurant partners—FLB, Plank Craft Kitchen and Bar, Visconti’s Ristorante, and Sutter Street Taqueria—brought incredible dishes that added so much to the evening. Cynthia Renee set the tone with a beautiful musical welcome during the social hour. And having our elected leaders—Supervisor Rosario Rodriguez, Assemblyman Josh Hoover, and representatives from Congressman Kevin Kiley—present special recognitions added a meaningful layer of appreciation for our winners.
And of course, congratulations to Rainbow Kids Urgent Care for being named the 2025 Folsom Times Business of the Year—an honor entirely determined by the people of this community.
As the night wound down, I took a moment to look around the room. I saw business owners talking with customers. Competitors congratulating one another. Families cheering for their local favorites. Smiles everywhere. And in that moment, I felt something unmistakable: this wasn’t just an event—this was the beginning of a tradition.
We’ve grown tremendously in less than three years. But we’re only just getting started.
To every business owner, voter, volunteer, advertiser, partner, and supporter who made this celebration a success—thank you. This community is why we do what we do, and why the hard work never feels like work. When you love your community, when you believe in it, when you live and operate here—it all becomes a labor of love.
Here’s to many more celebrations ahead. Here’s to the businesses that make Folsom exceptional. And here’s to all of you, for embracing Folsom Times as your truly local news source and community connector.
Thank you, Folsom, for making our role here truly the best of times.
Bill Sullivan is the co-founder and managing publisher of Folsom Times and All Town Media LLC.
