The March 7 Soroptimist 70th Anniversary Gala is coming soon! The 1970s-inspired gala celebrates 70 years of women whose leadership, vision, and service have shaped our community. The Gala also honors five amazing Women of Achievement. Our special guest speaker is Pete Hamilton representing the Rio Vista Museum.
Buy your tickets now! If you’re a fan of Soroptimists’ work, consider sponsorship opportunities. Your sponsorship helps fund scholarships and grants, mentoring programs, career development resources, and local impact projects. Or consider placing an ad in the Gala program. Go to siriovista.com or contact Eldy Nodal at eldy0612@gmail.com or Vera Sunada at verasunad@gmail.com for more event information.
Soroptimist International of Rio Vista is thrilled to provide more information about two more 2026 Women of Achievement honorees! Meet
MaryEllen Lamothe and Tami Mitchell.
MaryEllen Lamothe: A Legacy of Community Enrichment
Introduction
MaryEllen Lamothe has played a pivotal role in shaping community spirit and bringing economic vitality to Rio Vista. Her influence can be seen in numerous local initiatives, from beautification projects to beloved community events.
Driving Economic
Vitality
After moving here in 2005, newly married to a Rio Vista businessman, she volunteered at the Chamber of Commerce where she soon became a board member, then President. When the Chamber director resigned just weeks before Bass Derby, she stepped in as chairman and continued to coordinate Bass Derby activities for the next two years. In 2013, MaryEllen partnered with Vera Sunada to open Brand You, a clothing consignment store. Most funds raised by Brand You were donated directly to the community. The partners managed the store for two years, making a significant contribution to the town. MaryEllen also devoted her time as a Commissioner on the City of Rio Vista Planning Commission, where she was involved in making important decisions regarding development and zoning for the city.
Formation of RioVision
Prior to the establishment of RioVision in 2012, MaryEllen encouraged the American Institute of Architecture to support an application for their Regional/Urban Design Assistance Team (R/UDAT) grant. This grant led to an economic development report, which was later adopted by the City Council and used for planning. After the R/UDAT report was complete, MaryEllen and others moved forward to establish RioVision as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.
Main Street
Beautification
One of the first RioVision projects was revamping the 77 Main Street planters. MaryEllen took a hands-on approach, leading fundraising efforts and personally participating in laying bricks and landscaping. This project evolved into the Trim ‘N Tidy program, which continues to maintain all the planters. Additionally, MaryEllen organized RioVision’s first major fundraising event—the 2015 Holiday Home Tour—which showcased local homes and is now held every other year in odd years. Through her involvement with Rio Vista’s Planning Commission and RioVision, MaryEllen made a lasting impact on local development.
Soroptimist International of Rio Vista
As an active member of Soroptimist International of Rio Vista, MaryEllen played a significant role in the club’s involvement with the McCormack Ranch Sheepdog Trials, including overseeing the design and production of commemorative t-shirts for these events. She also introduced the first Home Tour as a club fundraiser.
A Lasting Impact
MaryEllen’s vision, creativity, dedication, and organizational skills have led to notable improvements throughout the town and its community. She contributed significantly to nonprofit and municipal organizations, all while managing the Highway 12 Diner with her husband Howard.
Tami Mitchell:
Champion of Rio Vista’s Community Spirit
Early Roots and Lasting Connections
Tami Mitchell grew up in Rio Vista, where the town’s small and close-knit community played a pivotal role in shaping her dedication to fostering strong local connections. After spending several years living in the Bay Area and Denver, Tami returned to Rio Vista to handle her father’s estate. This experience reaffirmed for her just how much she valued the unique sense of belonging and community that the town offers.
Leadership and the Farmer’s Market
Initiative
Motivated by the vision for economic vitality outlined in the Regional/Urban Design Assistance Team (R/UDAT) report, the Rio Vista Downtown Association spearheaded the launch of the Rio Vista Farmer’s Market. Their goal was to create a vibrant community gathering place as well as a nurturing environment for small businesses to grow. As a board member and now president of the Rio Vista Downtown Association, Tami and board members Brian Spradling, Edwin Okamura, Cliff McGahey, Andrea Cross-Pearson, Brooke George, Beth Amatrone, Hector
De La Rosa, Kara Samaniego, and an amazing team of volunteers have been instrumental in the ongoing success of the farmer’s market.
Tami’s hands-on involvement included personally recruiting vendors, managing logistics, and ensuring the market offered a welcoming atmosphere complete with live music and a diverse array of products. Thanks to her leadership, the hard work of the board, and robust community support, the farmer’s market has flourished, reaching a peak of 35 to 38 vendors.
Economic and
Community Impact
The farmer’s market has had a profound effect on downtown Rio Vista. By drawing crowds to the area, it increases foot traffic and boosts the success of nearby small businesses, particularly on market days. Vendors appreciate the genuine support from the community, noting that even though the market may not match the size of markets in larger cities, the residents of Rio Vista not only buy their goods but consistently express their gratitude for their participation. Local shops benefit from the increased activity and the visitors who linger downtown, making the market a catalyst for both economic growth and strengthened community engagement.
Downtown
Revitalization Projects
Beyond her work with the farmer’s market, Tami also serves on the lighting committee with Hector De La Rosa and Cliff McGahey and other projects that include facade improvements and the introduction of a new lighting initiative designed to enhance Main Street. Upgrading streetlights and installing string lights will not only create a more inviting atmosphere for events like the Friday night concert series but also extend the hours during which people can enjoy the farmer’s market and other downtown activities. As president of the Rio Vista Downtown Association, Tami and the board continue to work on other downtown revitalization efforts.
Ongoing Commitment to Community
Tami Mitchell’s enduring passion is centered on nurturing and expanding the collaborative spirit that defines Rio Vista. Through her leadership and dedication, she continues to help the community thrive and preserve the unique character that makes Rio Vista special.
