Carmichael Chooses Best of the Best

Jun 23, 2021 12:00AM ● By Story and photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

Business people and Chamber of Commerce leaders gather at the Milagro Centre for a Best of Carmichael winners portrait.

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Business folk were toast of the town when the Carmichael Chamber of Commerce and Carmichael Times hosted contest announced “Best of Carmichael awards” recently. Winners were decided by customer and supporter votes. Certificates rewarded victory.

More than 4000 voters participated to decide the community’s top providers. Twenty-four contested categories included professional services, markets, restaurants, fitness centers, non-profits – and many more entities that make Carmichael a commercial and service hub. River City Brewery emerged as champion of champions: this Milagro Centre anchor was again preferred pub and best restaurant. Owners Beth Ayers-Biro and Steve Cuneo earned additional kudos for inspiring most votes overall.

The I Love Pie shop took the cake as best bakery. Emigh Hardware nailed a best-market award. The Effie Yeaw Nature Center was voted tops for non-profit. Eskaton Village secured best senior living. Twisted Scissors salon snipped the field for best barber/beauty shop.

PJ’s Coffee, Frith and Bradshaw Jewelers, Bucks Automotive and Skip’s Kitchen were among many family operations proclaimed tops. Urban Flex Fitness muscled in as best-gym.

While many new winners emerged, some perennials prevailed. Katie Pexa’s Farmers Insurance agency was a fourth-time champion. Carmichael Presbyterian was again heaped with best-church praise. In all, 243 businesses – either located in Carmichael or members of the Chamber -- received votes.

Over recent years, the competition has garnered increasing community excitement. Although the COVID crisis prevented a 2020 poll and ruled out the usual celebratory banquet for this year’s winners, enthusiasm was rekindled for 2021. The Chamber of Commerce and Carmichael Times has presented proclamations. The organization will celebrate the winners when regular Chamber gatherings resume.

Following is the complete list of Best of Carmichael winners.

Best Automotive Repair & Service
Buck Family Automotive

Best Barber, Beauty Salon/Services
Twisted Scissors Salon & Boutique

Best Business Services
Carmichael Box Store

Best Carmichael Bank / Credit Union
Golden 1 Credit Union (Carmichael)

Best Carmichael Bar/Pub
River City Brewing Company

Best Carmichael Church
Carmichael Presbyterian Church

Best Carmichael Coffee
PJ’s Coffee

Best Carmichael Fast Food
Skip’s Kitchen

Best Carmichael Home Based Business
Susan Maxwell Skinner

Best Carmichael Non-Profit, Community Service
Effie Yeaw Nature Center

Best Carmichael Restaurant
River City Brewing Company