Baseball legend Dusty Baker (center) brings samples from his West Sacramento family winery to his hometown for the Best of Carmichael fundraiser. Friend Anthony Miranda and Shenanigans Bar manager Jennifer Holman approve the Baker brand.

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - More than 350 foodies chowed down at La Sierra Community Center Friday, May 29 for the annual Taste of Carmichael festival.

In its 21st year, the mammoth event is among fundraisers that boost Carmichael Kiwanis Club benevolence to many causes. All funds raised will go back to the community. Raffles and silent auctions further aided club programs benefitting kids, families and the environment.

43 restaurants, markets, merchants and organizations enriched the culinary blowout. Vintners and breweries libated and guests rocked off calories dancing in the center’s courtyard. Famed Carmichael band Wasted Space provided three hours of rock music.

Carmichael rock band Wasted Space provide dance music on the La Sierra Center patio.

Vendors were boosted this year by several new Carmichael restaurants. Baseball legend Dusty Baker attended to promote his Baker Family Winery in West Sacramento. “Dusty was a big draw,” said event co-chair Linda Martin. “He grew up in Carmichael and was here to support his hometown. People were thrilled to shake his hand.”

Event sponsors included: Dignity Health; Lind Brothers; Ken and Lynn Hall; SMUD; Buck Family Auto; Kim White, realtor; Dr. Gabrielle Rasi (Almond Orchard Dental Care); Supervisor Rich Desmond; Hal Snow; Maita Subaru.

For information on the Kiwanis Club of Carmichael, visit: www.kiwanisclubofcarmichael.com.