Annual event brings together Folsom’s leaders, stories and local flavor for an evening of recognition and inspiration
An evening defined by recognition, connection and community pride unfolded Thursday at Lakeside Church as business leaders, community advocates and residents gathered for the 2026 Choose Folsom Community Awards.
From the moment guests arrived, the significance of the night was evident. Conversations carried throughout the venue as attendees reconnected, shared stories and prepared to celebrate the individuals and organizations helping shape Folsom’s future. The reception offered curated appetizers and award-winning local wine, setting a vibrant tone that blended energy with appreciation before the program began.
Woven throughout the evening was a broader message about the year ahead, as Choose Folsom leadership challenged the community to make 2026 a highly visible, patriotism-centered celebration tied to multiple milestones. The program highlighted the convergence of Folsom’s 80th year of incorporation, the Chamber’s 80th year as a nonprofit, the nation’s 250th anniversary and the 65th anniversary of the Folsom Pro Rodeo.
Joe Gagliardi, CEO of Choose Folsom encouraged Americana to be incorporated into events citywide, including the idea of decorating the community with “250 American flags.”
Key dates were also announced, including the city’s official 80th anniversary celebration May 9 at Folsom City Park and the return of the cattle drive and hometown parade July 1 in coordination with the Folsom Historic District Association.
When the formal presentations got underway, the evening shifted into a series of deeply personal and meaningful tributes. Through video features and remarks from presenters, each honoree’s story came into focus, revealing the leadership, service and passion that continue to define the community.
Matt Loughgran was recognized as Entrepreneur of the Year, with Mayor Justin Raithel offering a reflection that extended well beyond business success. Raithel pointed to Loughgran’s personal brand, which lists him as “father, friend, coach, entrepreneur,” and said he believed Loughgran had likely spent time thinking carefully about the order of those roles. While the evening was honoring him as Entrepreneur of the Year, Raithel said he had come to know Loughgran in each of those roles over the last few years. “I can say I could just as easily be up here naming him the father of the year, the friend of the year, or the coach of the year,” Raithel said.
He described Loughgran as someone who balances many responsibilities with intention, builds meaningful connections among good people and spreads great ideas throughout Folsom, the region and beyond. Raithel said he was honored to present the award, but even more honored to call Loughgran his friend. Beyond the stage, Loughgran’s impact has included community-building efforts such as Folsom Tech Week, involvement with TEDx Folsom, participation in Granite City Coworking and launching the Folsom Foodie Supper Club.
A legacy of service spanning decades was honored as Enid Baldock was inducted into the Wall of Fame. Joe Gagliardi described the Wall of Fame Award as the highest honor bestowed by the Folsom Chamber of Commerce, recognizing a visionary leader whose enduring contributions have helped shape the very fabric of the community and whose legacy will be felt for generations. The annual recognition, Gagliardi said, honors an individual who has distinguished themselves through leadership, service and dedication not only to Choose Folsom, but to the entire Folsom community. He said Baldock has contributed to the greater good and made a measurable difference through her efforts.
Gagliardi said Baldock did not know she would be receiving the honor, which was fitting for someone who has supported the organization and the community for more than 30 years while never wanting recognition. He described her as “extremely charismatic, relentlessly optimistic, lovable, adventuresome, nonjudgmental,” and said she has “an infectious laugh.” Her commitment, he said, could be seen in the way she might help set up the saloon for the rodeo one evening and return at 8 a.m. the next morning to help tear it down.
Gagliardi highlighted her work as an adviser to the first Folsom Film Festival, her service on the River District organizing committee, her participation in every Choose Folsom study mission and her role in helping secure City Council approval for the modification of the Tourism Business Improvement District. He also noted that Baldock currently serves on the TED Corp and Chamber boards and has raised her hand to serve as an officer, preparing to take on the role of chair of the Folsom Chamber of Commerce board in 2027. “She truly is a sister you always wanted,” Gagliardi said, describing her as someone who can be counted on to pick others up and bring joy to the work.
Teichert Construction was honored as Business Hall of Fame, with Aaron Silva placing the company’s legacy into historical context. Silva began by reflecting on the honor of serving as past chair of a storied organization with 80 years of history, then noted that the Chamber is not the only longtime pillar of the community. Teichert, he said, has existed since 1887, and its impact has helped build the foundation of Folsom as it is known today. For decades, Silva said, Teichert Construction has been more than a construction company; it has been a trusted partner in growth, progress and community development.
Silva described Teichert’s impact as visible in the streets beneath residents’ feet and in the infrastructure supporting homes, schools and businesses. He cited the revitalization of Sutter Street as one clear example, noting widened sidewalks, upgraded utility infrastructure and thoughtful improvements to building fronts that helped transform the historic district into a more accessible and vibrant destination.
He also highlighted Teichert’s support of local events, including the Folsom Pro Rodeo, and noted its continued involvement in community-building projects such as Folsom Heights. What sets Teichert apart, Silva said, is not necessarily what it builds, but “how they build it — with integrity, reliability, and a long-standing commitment to excellence.” Through that approach, he said, the company has earned the respect of the community time and time again.
Jodi De Smidt was recognized as Ambassador of the Year, with presenter Solomon Chis describing her journey with Choose Folsom as one that began three years ago. Chis said De Smidt was sparked by a desire to trade the spotlight for supporting others in the spotlight. After attending events as a guest, she quickly realized she wanted to become one of the primary drivers of the energy and connection that define Folsom’s local business landscape. Her commitment, Chis said, was cemented at her first ribbon-cutting ceremony, a vibrant and welcoming celebration that captured the spirit of the community.
Since then, Chis said, De Smidt has become a constant presence, embodying the Chamber’s mission to build lasting relationships and support local entrepreneurs. For De Smidt, he said, the group is not simply a professional network. “It is a family that shows up for one another,” Chis said, helping ensure Folsom remains a thriving, vibrant place to live and work. When she is not championing local businesses, he noted, she remains active within the community she loves. Chis asked the room to celebrate De Smidt for her heart, her dedication and her invaluable contribution to the Folsom community.
Plank Craft Kitchen + Bar was named Emerging Business of the Year, with Reese Punter delivering a presentation that emphasized the meaning behind the award and why the business stood out so quickly in the community.
“When we talk about an emerging business, we’re not just talking about something new,” Punter said. “We’re talking about something that feels right from the moment you walk in.”
He repeated that point to underscore the distinction, explaining that an emerging business is not simply defined by opening its doors, but by how it is received by the community and how it makes people feel from the first experience.
“And that is exactly what John and Frankie Arata have created here in Historic Folsom,” Punter said.
He described Plank as going beyond the expectations of a traditional restaurant, noting that what has been built is something much more intentional and meaningful. “They have created more than just a restaurant,” Punter said. “They have created a gathering place where great food, craft cocktails, and genuine hospitality come together to create memorable experiences.”
Punter highlighted the restaurant’s fresh California-inspired dishes, but made clear that the success of the business is not just about the menu. Instead, he pointed to the overall atmosphere and the way guests are welcomed and treated.
“From the food to the atmosphere, everything about Plank feels intentional,” he said, noting that it has already helped raise the bar for local dining in Folsom. What I love most about Plank is that it is truly family-driven,” Punter said. “It is rooted in community, powered by passion, and committed to making every guest feel as if they belong.”
He paused on that point, reinforcing the purpose behind the recognition.
“That is what an emerging business should be.” “They don’t just show up,” he said. “They elevate everything around them.”
The city’s deep rodeo roots were a central theme of the evening, particularly as the Folsom Pro Rodeo prepares for its 65th year, with expectations of another sold-out run drawing roughly 28,000 attendees. Harry Elliott was recognized as Rodeo Grand Marshal, with Brian Martell reflecting on his own involvement with the Chamber and the rodeo dating back to 1992.
Martell said he moved into his first home, an Elliott home, in 1991, the same year Elliott Homes moved its headquarters to Folsom. Elliott Homes, he noted, began in 1914, and Harry Elliott has been a backbone of the community since arriving in Folsom. Martell said he and Charlie sat in the room as past recipients of the same belt buckle, an honor he described as meaningful because the buckle represents a badge of honor. That honor, Martell said, carries added significance in a year marking the rodeo’s 65th anniversary, Folsom’s 80th anniversary of incorporation and the nation’s 250th anniversary. He said Elliott’s role includes stepping forward each night to deliver remarks, celebrate the country and fly the red, white and blue flag, reinforcing his connection to the rodeo, the community and the patriotic theme of the year.
That spirit carried forward as Adam Frick, co-founder and owner of Folsom Times, was recognized as Legend of the Rodeo, with Taryn Grows delivering one of the evening’s most personal and memorable presentations.
“It’s super unfortunate I lost a bet to be up here tonight,” Grows said, explaining that several people had been asked before her to speak about the rodeo legend and “every single one said, ‘No, thank you.’” When she was told she was up, she joked, “Well, if I have to talk about somebody, I’m gonna talk a little bit of trash.”
Grows then reflected on Frick’s long connection to the rodeo, joking that he has been around for nearly its entire 65-year history. “Adam, I think you’ve been around 64 of them,” she said, drawing laughter from the crowd.
She explained that the beauty of the award is that it is given to someone who has been instrumental in carrying the spirit of what rodeo means to the community. Frick, she said, has worn “so many hats — literally so many hats” throughout his time with the rodeo.
She highlighted his 20 years of service and recalled the many roles he has played, including dancing, performing on stilts, riding a hoverboard and even bungee jumping. Through those efforts, she said, he has helped create memories that have lasted forever.
“One of my fondest memories of this man is the day he decided to propose to his now wife in the middle of the rodeo arena,” Grows said, calling it one of the greatest honors she had ever been part of.
She closed with a deeply personal note. “I am more than excited — and a little bit touched — because I love this man,” Grows said. “He’s my brother from another mother.” She added one final line of humor, saying she was happy he decided to wear pants under the chaps that year.
“So thank you,” she said. “My brother, your brother, Uncle Sam — Mr. Adam Frick — our Legend of the Rodeo.”
Education took center stage as Howard Cadenhead was named Educator of the Year. Superintendent Erik Swanson, speaking as a former high school principal, said his admiration for Cadenhead runs deep. Every day at Folsom High School, Swanson said, 3,000 students and 300 staff come together to create an incredible educational experience. Students consistently win state championships not only in academics, but also in the arts and athletics, he said. As Cadenhead finishes his 12th year as principal, more than 7,000 graduates have walked across the stage under his leadership.
Swanson said what makes Cadenhead so deserving of the award is his student-centered approach. Whether on campus or in district meetings, Swanson said, Cadenhead always starts with what is in the best interest of his students. “He knows them, he cares deeply about them, and he wants each of them to love their high school experience,” Swanson said. The recognition, he added, was well earned for Folsom High School’s principal.
Powerhouse Ministries was recognized as Non-Profit of the Year, with Jim Snook outlining the organization’s mission and long-running impact in Folsom. Snook described Powerhouse Ministries as a Christian nonprofit founded by Nancy Ashley. For more than three decades, he said, Ashley has built the organization’s vision to inspire and empower people to rise above their circumstances, change their lives and impact their community.
Through the Powerhouse Women and Children’s Center in Folsom and the organization’s men’s recovery center, Snook said, Powerhouse Ministries is transforming lives. More than 90 percent of graduates from the organization’s two-year program, he said, never return to a lifestyle of addiction and abuse. “How fortunate are we that Powerhouse Ministries chose Folsom to call home?” Snook said. The organization, he added, has brought hope, healing and restoration to countless individuals and families. Snook said presenters were honored to recognize Nancy Ashley, executive director Josh Levine and Powerhouse Ministries as Non-Profit of the Year.
Handley’s Western Wear was named Family Business of the Year, accepted by Julie Hanley, with Shannon Robb describing the business as more than a store. “Handley’s Western Wear isn’t just a store. It’s a Folsom icon,” Robb said. Founded in 1961, the same year as the Folsom Pro Rodeo, Handley’s has long been part of the fabric and energy of the community. Robb said the business does not just sponsor the rodeo — it helps bring it to life.
Robb said anyone who walks into Handley’s feels the difference immediately through warm welcomes and genuine connection. That kind of customer service, he said, is rare and unforgettable. While the business is rooted in tradition, Robb said it has also become a powerhouse in branding, with a logo recognized far beyond Folsom. The evening, he said, celebrated a business that defines community, tradition and innovation all at once.
Judy Collinsworth, the Executive Director of the Folsom Historic District Association was honored as the 2026 Folsom Champion, one of the highest annual awards, with local merchant and FHDA Board Member Amber Felts delivering a presentation that emphasized both her visible leadership and the countless hours of work that often go unseen in the Historic District.
Felts described Collinsworth as a steady and consistent presence, someone who has become a driving force behind the success and continued growth of the district and a champion for the merchants, businesses and people who rely on it.
“Judy is someone who shows up,” Felts said. “She shows up again and again, and she shows up when it matters.”
She expanded on that point, explaining that much of Collinsworth’s work happens behind the scenes — the problem-solving, the conversations, the advocacy and the time invested in making sure the district continues to move forward.
“A lot of what Judy does, people don’t always see,” Felts said. “But it’s the work that makes everything else possible.”
Felts said Collinsworth has consistently stepped in to support businesses, help navigate challenges and advocate for the needs of the district, all while keeping the bigger picture of the community in mind.
“She shows up, she gets things done, and she genuinely cares about the success of others,” Felts said.
She emphasized that Collinsworth’s impact is not measured by one project or one moment, but by years of sustained effort and leadership that have helped shape the district into what it is today.
“Simply put, we would not be where we are today without Judy,” Felts added.
Felts closed by recognizing the scale of that impact, calling it extraordinary and noting that Collinsworth has helped raise the bar for what the Historic District can be moving forward.
John Messner was recognized for Community Impact, with Joe Gagliardi delivering a presentation that emphasized the full scope and depth of his lifelong commitment to service.
Gagliardi described Messner as someone who “stands out above and beyond just about anyone” when it comes to serving others, noting that his impact is felt not only in Folsom, but far beyond it.
“He consistently shows up,” Gagliardi said. “He goes above and beyond. He advocates for this community. He supports the people around him. And he makes a lasting difference through leadership and service.”
Gagliardi said Messner embodies the Rotary motto of “service above self,” and has done so in ways that extend well beyond the local level. “That commitment doesn’t stop here,” he said. “It extends internationally.”
He detailed Messner’s involvement in global service work, noting that he has volunteered internationally and supported humanitarian efforts that have impacted lives well outside of the Folsom community.
Closer to home, Gagliardi walked through the many ways Messner has continued to give back over the years.
“He has hosted exchange students,” Gagliardi said. “He has volunteered internationally. He has served on numerous boards. And when leadership has been needed — including moments when the City Council needed experience — he has stepped in.”
Gagliardi emphasized that Messner has never done any of it for recognition. “He raises his hand when help is needed,” he said. “Not for credit. Not for recognition. But because it’s the right thing to do.”
He also pointed to one of the highest honors in Rotary, noting that Messner is one of only 1,800 individuals in the world to receive the Arch Klumph International Award. “That alone tells you the level of impact he has had,” Gagliardi said.
Gagliardi then shifted to a more personal reflection, slowing the moment and emphasizing the person behind the work.
“He surely is a quiet man,” Gagliardi said. “But he is an incredible individual — a father, a grandfather, a spouse, a partner, a community volunteer…and most importantly, a dear friend.”
As the evening appeared to conclude, a final surprise brought the room to its feet. Jim Snook returned to present the inaugural Legend in Motion Award to Choose Folsom CEO Joe Gagliardi. For more than three decades, Snook said, Folsom has grown, evolved and defined itself as one of the most vibrant communities in the region. The award, he said, honored a man whose vision, leadership and relentless commitment have helped shape that journey and continue to guide where Folsom is headed next.
Snook said Gagliardi helped lay the physical foundation for a city built with purpose and connectivity. As CEO of the Folsom Chamber of Commerce, he said, Gagliardi reimagined what a chamber could be — not just a business organization, but a catalyst for economic vitality and community pride. He founded the Folsom Economic Development Corporation, launched the Tourism Bureau, created the Tourism Business Improvement District and co-led 17 study missions.
Many of Folsom’s most cherished traditions, Snook said, began with Gagliardi’s vision and energy, including Picnic in the Park, the tree lighting ceremony, WaterFest, Folsom Live, the Cattle Drive, Tap Folsom and the Foothill Wine Festival. Through decades of service, Snook said, Gagliardi has poured his heart into the Folsom Pro Rodeo and countless civic initiatives. “Tonight, we recognize a legacy that’s still being written,” Snook said. “It is my honor to present the Legend in Motion Award.”
Gagliardi returned to the podium with a smile, looked at his staff and mused “you guys know I don’t like surprises.” He then closed out the program as he emphasized the importance of community support, thanking staff, ambassadors, sponsors and contributors who helped produce the evening, including those involved in the program, run-of-show, video production and editing.
Participating restaurants and vendors for the event included Plank Craft Kitchen + Bar, Scott’s Seafood Roundhouse, Nixtaco, Visconti’s Ristorante, Buckhorn BBQ, Shake Shack, Beach Hut, Mountain Mike’s, Gekkeikan, Snooks Candies & Chocolate Factory and The Cookie Shoppe, showcasing the depth of Folsom’s culinary and hospitality scene.
The event was made possible through the support of its sponsors, led by presenting sponsor Dignity Health and platinum sponsor SAFE Credit Union. Gold sponsors included Elliott Homes, Dokken Engineering, CMIT Solutions Folsom, Gekkeikan Sake (U.S.A.), Inc., Sacramento Municipal Utility District, Sekisui House, DesCor Builders, Folsom Ranch, Marshall Medical, Micron and The MORE Real Estate Group. Media sponsors included Folsom Times and Style Magazine.
By the end of the night, one message stood clear: the strength of Folsom lies in its people, and the extraordinary individuals and organizations recognized Thursday continue to define its future.
2026 Choose Folsom Community Awards Honorees
Entrepreneur of the Year: Matt Loughgran
Wall of Fame: Enid Baldock
Business Hall of Fame: Teichert Construction
Ambassador of the Year: Jodi De Smidt
Emerging Business of the Year: Plank Craft Kitchen + Bar
Rodeo Grand Marshal: Harry Elliott
Legend of the Rodeo: Adam Frick
Educator of the Year: Howard Cadenhead
Non-Profit of the Year: Powerhouse Ministries
Family Business of the Year: Handley’s Western Wear
Folsom Champion of the Year: Judy Collinsworth
Community Impact of the Year: John Messner
Legend in Motion Award: Joe Gagliardi
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