2025 Ramona Community Awards & Installation Gala

The Ramona Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2025 Community Awards and Installation Gala on Saturday, Jan 25, an annual event recognizing the current board, honoring exceptional individuals and organizations, and welcoming the new board. Awards were presented to those who excelled in their fields and made significant contributions to the town's growth, including dedicated volunteers who devoted countless hours to improving the lives of their neighbors and community.

The event took place at Lavender and Olive, with over 100 attendees enjoying an open bar and a catered buffet by Off the Vine Dining before the ceremony, led by Chamber President Robert Krysak.

The newly introduced 2025 Executive Board includes Joe Stupar, Robert Krysak, Karen Domnitz, Nancy Sapper, Kyle Dodson, and Paul Zawilenski. The 2025 Directors, including Lindsay Boos, Vinnie Ciampoli, Carol Fowler, Marci McKown, Jaclyn Pepin, Manny Pasternack, Amber Ramirez, Andrea Stykel, Matt Wagner, and Susan White, were sworn into office by Andrew Hayes, representing Supervisor Joel Anderson's office. In a lighthearted moment, Carol Fowler held up a sign reading, "He is the Oldest," humorously referring to a previous Chamber Installation event when Bob Krysak mistakenly introduced her as the "oldest member" instead of the "longest-serving member."

2024 Ramona Chamber of Commerce Community Awards:

• Ambassador of the Year: Ryan Keiser – Recognized for his dedicated volunteer efforts and commitment to fostering community engagement.

• Volunteer of the Year: Tayla Dodson – Honored for her outstanding dedication and contributions to the community.

• Educator of the Year: Terra Davis – Celebrated for inspiring students to achieve academic success and fostering a passion for learning.

• Firefighter of the Year: Thomas Jersey – Although Thomas couldn't attend the event as he bravely battled the fires in LA, we were honored to recognize his heroic efforts and unwavering commitment to protecting our community. Captain Bert Ramirez and his fire fighting team joined us in celebrating Thomas' achievements, highlighting by their presence the team dedication and teamwork that exemplifies our firefighting community.

• Law Enforcement Officer of the Year: Deputy Evan Sobczak – Recognized for exceptional courage and dedication to community service.

• Senior Volunteer Deputy of the Year: Randy Sergeant – Honored for his countless hours and commitment to community service.

2024 Annual Community Awards Committee Presentation

Chair: Karen Domnitz. Members: Eric Charlebois, Amy Charlebois, Doreen Smith, Michelle Stanley, Tiffany Lynch.

• Business of the Year: Generations Day Care/Archie's Pantry – This recognition celebrates their unwavering commitment to the community, providing essential services and support to families in need. Their dedication to fostering a nurturing environment for children while also addressing food security issues exemplifies the impact that a compassionate business can have.

• Non-Profit of the Year: Ramona Archway Association – Jim Piva said, "We are giving the most important award TO the Ramona Chamber of Commerce. When the Ramona archway was made, it was so beautiful, and we've had so many compliments that we wanted to give an award. The stars that are cut out on the archway, we took those stars and had them engraved. They were engraved with the Ramona Chamber of Commerce logo on them. We want to give one of those stars to Bob Krysak because of the support given to us to make that archway a reality."

• Citizen of the Year: Jodie Taylor – Recognized for her remarkable array of outstanding accomplishments that have positively influenced our community and inspired those around her. (Click here to read the story.)

• Lifetime Achievement Award: Elaine Lyttleton – Recognized for her dedication and hard work that were instrumental in establishing the Ramona art scene, including Ramona H.E.A.R.T. Mural Project; Ramona Arts, Wine, and Music Festival and more, where she contributed immensely to the cultural enrichment of our community. In addition, she has been a strong advocate for our flourishing local winery brand as the owner of Hatfield Creek Winery. Her passion and commitment have left a legacy that will be cherished for years to come.

Thank you to the Ramona Chamber of Commerce for all you do to support our community, its citizens, and businesses. Your dedication helps make Ramona a thriving and connected place to live and work. Congratulations to this year's award winners—your hard work and commitment truly make a difference!

Photos by Heather McGhee