Last year’s Best of Carmichael Winners posed for a group portrait at La Sierra Community Center.

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - The popularity contest that decides Carmichael’s top businesses kicks off in September.

Following two months of voting, the best of Carmichael’s 2024 winners will celebrate on Nov. 1 at a La Sierra Center gala. Certificates, proclamations and bragging rights reward victory

Businesses in 69 fields will be 2024 contenders. Categories include professional services, non-profits, markets, restaurants, fitness centers, churches and many more entities that make Carmichael a commercial hub.

While new winners always emerge, several repeat champions have prevailed through previous years. The Bel Air market has repeatedly won Best Grocery Store. Katie Pexa’s Farmers agency has nailed Best Insurance Provider at every poll. Carmichael Presbyterian supporters have rallied since 2018 to make their church Best Place of Worship. A few swing votes could change all this.

Nominations opened earlier this month, and candidates are still being accepted.

A new category solicits votes for the area’s favorite teacher. Kindergarten to university level educators are on the ballot. Winner recognition includes a $400 prize, sponsored by Nick Bloise, who is running for election to the San Juan School Board.

Expanded food and retail categories are also new this year.

“We have best bartender, best vegan menu, best date night ambiance and best tacos,” explained Carmichael chamber of Commerce President Rosie Buck. “With so many restaurants here, we want more opportunity to highlight great kitchens. Carmichael’s also an entertainment hub, so we decided to make “best concert-in-the-park band” a category this year. We hope bands will get their fans voting.”

The poll has garnered much excitement over the 10 years since the Carmichael Times and Chamber of Commerce joined forces to stage the event. Nominees must be located in Carmichael or have Chamber membership. But anyone from anywhere can vote.

A “kick-off picnic” will be part of the Sept. 5 food truck night in Carmichael Park.

Results will be revealed at a Hollywood-themed gala in La Sierra Center on Nov. 1.

“We'll encourage attendees to strut their red-carpet glam," said Rosie Buck.  "The spotlight will be 100 per cent on Carmichael. With our expanded categories, we hope for more voters and a big gala turnout. It's always a great night for businesspeople to let their hair down."

Electors can peruse candidates at www.bestofcarmichael.com after Sept. 10. The Nov. 1 awards dinner cost is $60 for chamber members and $65 for non-members. For information, go to www.carmichaelchamber.com.

Gala sponsors include Buck Family Automotive, Supervisor Rich Desmond and Carmichael Improvement District.

 An over-the-top dessert auction is a highlight of Best of Carmichael celebrations, scheduled this year for Nov. 1.