Assemblyman Josh Hoover announced on May 20 that Leatherby’s Family Creamery has been selected as the 2026 Small Business of the Year for California’s 7th Assembly District.
The announcement highlights Leatherby’s longstanding presence in the Sacramento area and its impact on local families and communities. The business, founded in 1982 by David “Daddy Dave” Leatherby, Sr., his father Albert, and his son David Jr., is recognized for its commitment to family values and community service.
Leatherby’s Family Creamery now operates five locations throughout greater Sacramento, serving about 200,000 customers each month. The company is known for preparing food and ice cream fresh daily using family recipes. Beyond its menu offerings, Leatherby’s employs more than 500 young people and supports schools, sports teams, charities, clubs, and nonprofit organizations across the region. Its Daddy Dave’s Deeds of Excellence Program recognizes students who show strong character and leadership.
“Leatherby’s Family Creamery exemplifies the very best of what a small business can be,” said Assemblyman Hoover. “Their commitment to excellence, family values, community service, and local investment has strengthened the Sacramento region and positively impacted countless lives over the past four decades. I am proud to recognize Leatherby’s Family Creamery as the 2026 Small Business of the Year for the 7th Assembly District and look forward to seeing their continued success for many years to come.”
Hoover represents Assembly District 7 which includes Citrus Heights, Folsom, Rancho Cordova as well as Carmichael, Fair Oaks, Foothill Farms, Gold River, Mather, McClellan Park, North Highlands, Orangevale and Rosemont. He was reelected to a second term in this role; he also serves on committees focused on serving students with disabilities—work that draws from his personal experience as a parent—and was named Folsom’s Young Professional of the Year in 2020 according to the official website.
Looking ahead at ongoing community engagement efforts from both local businesses like Leatherby’s Family Creamery and elected officials such as Hoover may offer further opportunities for regional development.
