THE BEST Gunnison OF
Gunnison People’s Choice Award 3 202 er n n i W
ALANWARTESMEDIA
2 • PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS 2023
ALAN WARTES MEDIA
Wow
THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY WHO VOTED FOR US IN THE 2023 PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS!
We are honored. BEST PIZZA BEST SALAD
Pizza & Pasta
DANNY J LEFEBVRE
BEST TAKEOUT/DELIVERY
Best Chef
A HUGE THANKS to our AMAZING staff 213 W TOMICHI AVE 970.641.1374 MARIOSGUNNISON.COM
...AND THE APPRECIATION CONTINUES. WE COULDN'T DO IT WITHOUT YOU GUNNISON VALLEY! BEST HAPPY HOUR BEST PLACE TO WATCH SPORTS
213 W TOMICHI AVE • 970.641.1375 DIVEGUNNISON.COM
PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS 2023 • 3
ALAN WARTES MEDIA
EDITOR’S NOTE
ALANWARTESMEDIA Bonnie Gollhofer
Publisher: Alan Wartes Editor: Bonnie Gollhofer Production: Alan Wartes Issa Forrest Advertising: Steve Nunn Stefan Scott Editorial: Bonnie Gollhofer Bella Biondini Abby Harrison Alex McCrindle Madeline Thomas Alan Wartes Celeste Helminski About the cover: The crew at Back Country Cafe won Best Breakfast and tied for Best Server (Carly Bare) this year. Pictured from left to right are Kaity Van Dyke, Sidney Bare Hartner and Carly Bare. (Photo courtesy of the Gunnison Country Chamber of Commerce) © 2023 Alan Wartes Media (970) 641-1414 | (970) 641-3148 218 N WISCONSIN ST. GUNNISON, CO
While almost no one can agree upon who said it first, the original concept behind the common phrase “the only constant is change” is almost universally tied to the ideas of the Greek philosopher Heraclitus. Though historical translations of his original writings vary, a personal favorite goes something like this: “Everything changes and nothing remains still … you cannot step twice into the same stream.” We live, undeniably, in changing times. Kids grow taller overnight. New lines appear on the faces of our friends and neighbors. Favorite fields fill with the roar of construction equipment. Look around town and notice new structures going up while beloved landmarks sit silent or undergo facelifts.
TH A N K Y O U , GUNNISON VALLEY, for placing your trust in me
I am humbled and grateful to be voted People’s Choice 2023. You, the citizens of Gunnison County have supported me as the BEST LAWYER for 11 consecutive years.
Thank you! Thomas M. Riser, Esq. The Law Office of Thomas M. Riser P.C. 103 W. Tomichi Avenue, Suite B. Gunnison, CO 81230. 970-642-4111
H O N E ST P E R SO NA L DEDICATED
I’ve spent many a riverside afternoon pondering these things, reaching into the water to pick up a perfectly worn pebble or two and trying my hand at skipping stones. Were it not for the ceaseless and eternal carving of ragged rock into timeless smoothness, and, eventually, sparkling sand, such a skip would prove impossible. I like to imagine everyone here in the Gunnison Valley as river stones collected in the incredibly cold water, ever-shaped as individuals by the shifting currents of time and circumstance, yet bound together by the place that we call home. As challenges arise, we often respond in kind by caring for one another and holding on tight as the water rushes over and around us. In the pages that follow, you’ll notice a common thread: Community, perhaps now more than ever, is everything. The fact that 916 of us decided to celebrate this by voting for our favorites in the 2023 People’s Choice survey speaks to what a truly resilient and spectacular place we have in the community of Gunnison. It’s our turn to say “thank you” to an outstanding group of people and businesses who not only stand strong in the swirling streams of change, but do so brilliantly. Thank you! (Bonnie G ollhofer can be contacted at 970.641.1414. or bonnie@gunnisontimes.com)
4 • PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS 2023
ALAN WARTES MEDIA
A LETTER FROM THE CHAMBER Celeste Helminski
Here are ten of my favorite reasons to shop small and shop local:
The Gunnison Country Chamber of Commerce is a membership association representing our diverse and creative business community and organizations. The Chamber creates strong connections and opportunities for support and growth. Our mission is to empower, support, enhance and promote the economic vitality of Gunnison Valley businesses through education, collaboration, advocacy, communication and visitor services. The Chamber collaborates with multiple entities throughout the year to provide community engagement and service with events such as the Mid-Week on Main Street music series, Fourth of July downtown, Trick or Treat Business District, Business After Hours, Night of Lights, the Holiday Greenback Program, the Great Gunnison Elf Hunt and more! I share this all the time, and I share this with a sincere heart — we have the most awesome retail, dining, service and professional businesses that rival anywhere in the country. This season, as holidays approach, think about purchasing your needs from our locals to help keep shipping boxes and packaging out of the recycle center and landfill. Get a gift card, think about a creative service, fill your holiday stockings right from the valley and visit our dining establishments when visitor season is quiet. Get to know your local business and service providers.
• You are supporting your neighbors. • You get to meet and interact with your local businesses. • You get in-person advice. • You know what you are getting. • Shopping locally becomes an experience. • Window shopping and in-store displays help you to visualize and can lead to great ideas. • No worries about deliveries because the item is ready to go when you need it.
• Buying local equals easier returns if needed. • For every $100 spent locally, $68 of it stays in the community. • Satisfaction is guaranteed. Happy fall from the Gunnison Country Chamber of Commerce! (Celeste Helminski is the director of the Gunnison Country Chamber of Commerce.)
The “Be Kind” mural at 201 N. Main St., by this year’s Best Artist winner, Jennifer Vannatta. (Photo by Bella Biondini)
thank you so much for voting us: BEST BREAKFAST BEST SERVER-CARLY BARE We can't tell you how much we appreciate you all! From our everyday folks, 2nd homeowners and people passing through, Back Country wouldn't be us without you!
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ALAN WARTES MEDIA
PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS 2023 • 5
Highlights from the Chamber
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6 • PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS 2023
ALAN WARTES MEDIA
BACKSTAGE WITH EDDIE’S BARBER SHOP Alan Wartes | Times Publisher
BEST BARBER
If you Google Eddie’s Barber Shop, you’ll find a number of stellar reviews on the usual sites, such as Yelp and MapQuest. Here is one from an anonymous customer on bestprosintown.com that represents them all: “If I could give more than 5 stars I would. Eddie showed me there are still good people in this world. His haircut is crisp, clean, and fast. He is the man! He blew my mind with his kindness and sincere gestures. I will definitely return!” Or how about this one: “Not only is Eddie great at cutting hair (he did exactly what I asked), he was genuinely friendly and great to get to talk to.” As you read, you’ll realize that the impression Waremakes on his clients goes far beyond the quality of the service they pay him for. People leave his shop feeling they’ve encountered a human being of remarkable quality — which no amount of money can buy. Eddie Ware — known as “Fast Eddie” around town — didn’t plan to spend his life cutting hair. That was his father’s world. Edwin Ware set up shop in Gunnison in 1963. After graduating from Gunnison High School in 1983, Eddie hoped to make his way in the world doing something else. But the economy in the early 80s was a mess. “Holy cow, nobody would give me a job,” Ware said. “There were no jobs available, just real tough times.” His dad’s solution was to “create my own job by learning to cut hair,” he said. With no other more appealing prospects, that’s what Ware did. He attended the Americana Beauty College in Colorado Springs and became a licensed hair stylist. “My father was a barber during the 70s, a period of time when it was not cool to be a barber,” Ware said.
“So he sent me to school to be able to cut long hair, too. I ended up being a cosmetologist and have been cutting hair ever since.” Ware bought the family business upon his father’s death in 1992. He was recently joined by another GHS graduate, Alex Lovato — and in response to the pandemic he has expanded the shop at 123 W. Tomichi Ave. to provide more space between chairs. The last word goes to an online reviewer named Carmen: “Our 1-yr-olds first haircut and he looks great! Very patient and professional, and we enjoyed the service of a small town barber. We have found a life-long friend! Thank you.” (Alan Wartes can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or publisher@gunnisontimes.com.)
Photo by Alan Wartes
BACKSTAGE WITH MOCHA’S COFFEEHOUSE Alex McCrindle | Times Sports Editor
BEST COFFEE SHOP
In a community thriving with locally-owned coffee shops, Mochas Coffeehouse and Bakery reigns supreme in the People's Choice awards. For the 18th year in a row, Mochas has won the award for best coffee in Gunnison. Co-owner Kate Oros says her “secret recipe” to success is making everything locally and creating an authentic environment. Her staff is determined to bring a quality experience to the community. “We source quality ingredients and hand-make everything in-house. I think that’s what sets us apart,” Oros said. “My husband and I pour into this business seven days a week.” Inside the cozy coffeehouse, baristas play music of their choice and bring a distinct color to the setting. Western athletes pour into the building regularly, alongside a passionate fanbase of fellow students and locals. From hand-baking bagels, creating latte art or blending smoothies, Oros says her employees make the business thrive. “Our team is personable, they bring their own styles and energy into the business everyday," she said. “We are a great community hangout spot and we all enjoy getting to know our customers everyday. We are so grateful to Gunnison. We love doing this and are so thankful to win this award again. Our focus is now keeping our standard high in the coming years.” (Alex McCrindle can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or alex@gunnisontimes.com.)
Courtesy of the Gunnison Country Chamber of Commerce
PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS 2023 • 7
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ALWAYS OPEN! SEVEN DAYS A WEEK BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
GUNNISON -
THANK YOU FOR AGAIN CHOOSING US BEST BURGER - 14 YEARS! BEST WINGS - 6 YEARS! -SEAN, DEVEN, & THE POWERSTOP CREW
thank
you
gunnison! @roshambofosho / go-roshambo.com
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970-641-2328
quartersandcocktails.com @quartersandcocktails
FOR VOTING STREET US 909“BEST N.THANKS WISCONSIN CHURCH!” WE’RE GRATEFUL. GUNNISONBETHANY.COM We believe the best church is where people meet Jesus personally, are taught the Bible, are set continually more free, experience God’s love and goodness, and connect deeply with others to share and spread His love. As such, Bethany is one of many “best-churches” in Gunnison, that we love and admire. We encourage you to join us or one of our favorite local churches you can call “home.”
SUNDAYS AT 9 AM & 10:30 AM
909 N. Wisconsin Street GUNNISONBETHANY.COM | SUNDAYS AT 9 AM & 10:30 AM
8 • PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS 2023
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T hank you
Gunnison People’s Choice Award 3 202 er n Win
for participating in our survey! 2023 was a great year and our hardworking business community deserves the recognition.
Multiple Award W inners Winning one award is fantastic, but winning multiple goes above and beyond. We wanted to highlight the businesses and people that do just that!
Mario's Pizza & Pasta + T he Dive
1880 Tapas and Spirits
Gene Taylor's Sporting Goods
BEST CHEF - DANNY LEFEVRE HAPPY HOUR - THE DIVE - TIE BLACKSTOCK BISTRO BEST PLACE TO WATCH SPORTS THE DIVE BEST PIZZA - MARIO’S BEST SALAD - MARIO’S BEST TO GO/ DELIVERY - MARIO’S
BEST RESTAURANT SERVICE BEST BARTENDER - KYLE RICHARDS BEST COCKTAIL
BEST RETAIL STORE BEST OUTDOOR RETAILER
BEST HAMBURGER BEST WINGS
Powerstop
Back Country Cafe
BEST BREAKFAST BEST SERVER CARLY BARE - TIE BURKE EWING - HIGH ALPINE BREWING COMPANY
Blackstock Bistro
BEST RESTAURANT BEST HAPPY HOUR - TIE - THE DIVE
Hope & Glory BEST HOME FURNISHINGS/ DECOR BEST GIFT SHOP
Double Shot Cyclery BEST BARISTA - CONFESOR RESTO BEST BIKE SHOP
Quick Draw Cleaning BEST HOME SERVICE BEST CLEANING SERVICE
PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS 2023 • 9
ALAN WARTES MEDIA
Services & Misc.
Dining & Retail BEST VEGETARIAN/ VEGAN FOOD
BEST CHURCH
VEGAN A.F. BOX
BEST SALON
BEST SERVER - TIE
TRIC SALON
BURKE EWING - HIGH ALPINE BREWING COMPANY, CARLY BARE - BACKCOUNTRY CAFE
EDDIE’S BARBER SHOP
BEST STEAK OL’ MINER STEAKHOUSE
BEST COFFEE SHOP MOCHAS COFFEEHOUSE AND BAKERY
BETHANY CHURCH
BEST BARBER BEST HARDWARE STORE/ BUILDING SUPPLY FULLMER’S ACE HARDWARE
BEST BANK
BEST BUILDER/ CONTRACTOR -TIE PIKE BUILDERS CHRISTOPHER KLEIN CONSTRUCTION
BEST INSURANCE COMPANY SHONDECK FINANCIAL SERVICES AND INSURANCE
BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR BOYD AND SHARALEE PEDERSON SUMMIT GLOBAL
GUNNISON BANK & TRUST
BEST ACCOUNTANT
BEST DENTIST
STICE & COMPANY
BEST DESSERT
DR. JOSH OSBORNE GUNNISON FAMILY DENTISTRY
BEST GRAPHIC DESIGNER/ MARKETER
JERMAINE’S
BEST DOCTOR
ROSHAMBO
BEST SANDWICH
DR. LAURETTA GARREN GUNNISON VALLEY FAMILY PHYSICIANS
DIEGO PLATA
FIREBRAND DELICATESSEN
BEST FOOD TRUCK TACOCAT TACOCART
BEST RETAIL SALES PERSON TOGGERY ELEVATED STEPHANIE DAWES
BEST AUTOMOTIVE MECHANIC DARYL ROBBINS - MECHANIC ON DUTY
BEST LIQUOR STORE WET GROCER LIQUORS
BEST DISPENSARY ROCKY MOUNTAIN CANNABIS
BEST OUTDOOR DINING GARLIC MIKES
MATT BURT PHOTOGRAPHY
TENDERFOOT OUTFITTERS
DR. DAVID ROBBINS ABBA EYECARE
GUNNISON GALLERY
BEST PHOTOGRAPHER
STANDARD TIRE AND SERVICE CENTER
TANGO
BEST ART GALLERY
CRITTER SITTERS
BEST OUTFITTER
BEST OPTOMETRIST
CAKE ME AWAY
BEST PET BOARDING
BEST AUTO REPAIR SHOP
BEST CLOTHING STORE BEST NEW BUSINESS
BEST ELECTED OFFICIAL
BEST ORTHOPEDIC CLINIC GO ORTHOPEDICS
BEST NON-TRADITIONAL MEDICINE PRACTITIONER DR. ROANNE ROUSE HOUCK, N.D. MAIN STREET CLINIC
BEST MASSAGE THERAPIST INGRID BUTTS, LMT
BEST YOGA INSTRUCTOR LEIA MORRISON
BEST VETERINARY CLINIC
BEST ARTIST JENNIFER VANNATTA
BEST LOCALLY MADE PRODUCT DOBRATO RESOPHONIC GUITARS
BEST LOCAL BAND/ MUSICIAN EASY JIM
BEST LOCAL EVENT CATTLEMEN’S DAYS
BEST LOCAL PERSONALITY RON EARL
BEST TEACHER
TRACY ARCHULETA
BEST BBQ
GUNNISON VALLEY VETERINARY CLINIC
BEST NONPROFIT
5 B’S BBQ
BEST REALTOR
BEST RAFTING GUIDE
BEST MEXICAN FOOD ANEJO’S BISTRO AND BAR
KELSEY LOFTIS SIGNATURE PROPERTIES
BEST LAWYER THOMAS M. RISER
BEST LODGING PROPERTY THREE RIVERS RESORT & OUTFITTING
BEST FISHING GUIDE GSO FISHING - ANDY COCHRAN
SIX POINTS MATTHEW RODMAN
10 • PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS 2023 THANK YOU Gunnison Valley for voting Six Points Best Non Profit two years in a row!
WE ARE HONORED TO RECEIVE THIS COMMUNITY AWARD FOR THE SECOND TIME!
ALAN WARTES MEDIA
THANK YOU! We are proud to be voted People’s Choice
BEST OUTDOOR RETAILER as well as
BEST RETAIL STORE Pictured (L-R): Ricky Glatiotis, Enid Holden, Ronnie Ficklin, Danessa Allen, Denise Pelayo, Jeff Crawley, Daniel Bruce (Director), Stephanie Brim, Diana Riddle, Kirsten Sanders, Jenny Smith, Jen Zeikus, Paul Carpenter In front: Johnny Iniego, Nancy Lakiotes
Gunnison Valley Customers, you are the BEST! to hank you t l ia c e p s A staff ! ALL of our
Thank you for voting us Best Dessert in the 2023 People's Choice Awards Come by and enjoy a dessert with us. SHAKES • FROZEN YOGURT ICE CREAM • BAKED GOODS & MORE!
728 N. Main St. • 970.641.9876 • @JermainesEatDrinkLove Mon-Sat 8am-9:30pm • Sun 12-9:30pm • www.jermaineseatdrinklove.com
970-641-1845 201 W. Tomichi Ave.
THANK YOU GUNNISON for voting us BEST COFFEESHOP 20 years in a row! WE LOVE SERVING OUR BEAUTIFUL COMMUNITY!!!
G
U
N
O
Locally owned, locally loved
N
I SO
N , C O LO
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710 N. Main St., Gunnison • 970.641.2006
Thank YOU Gunnison Community for VOTING
~ Anejo Bistro & Bar BEST MEXICAN ME XICAN FOOD! We couldn't do it without you.
107 S. Main St. Gunnison 970.641.1427
PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS 2023 • 11
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BACKSTAGE WITH KYLE RICHARDS Abby Harrison | Times Staff Writer
BEST BARTENDER
On a bitter cold night, Gunnison Valley residents file into 1880 Tapas and Spirits for small plates assembled from local, seasonal meat and vegetables, and likely, a sharp, warming cocktail, mocktail or glass of wine to ease the burden of a protracted winter day. Stationed behind the bar, ready to mix a drink as customers ease into their seats, is Kyle Richards. After 10 years of serving experience, Richards is no stranger to the fast metabolism of bartending: greet, welcome, mix and repeat. From his beginnings in a rowdy steakhouse and cowboy bar in Utah to his last four years at 1880, Richards has a continued practice of creativity — testing various mixes of spirits, tinctures and syrups to create drinks that valley locals can enjoy. Whether it’s the La Sangre, a combination of blood orange gin, mezcal, St. Germain, agave and lime juice or the fall-themed Leaf Peeper martini, a mix of aged Barbados rum, vanilla herbal liqueur, Moonlight EXpresso liqueur, nutmeg and house-made pumpkin spice syrup, Richards’ creations at 1880 are sure to offer something for everyone. “It's just a fun, cool environment where you get to learn a whole lot more about food and get a whole new perspective on things,” Richards said. “I feel like this brought something different to the valley.” At 1880, Richards said he hopes to continue to grow as a bartender, serving never-before-consumed cocktails, with the encouragement of owners Kate and Pat Manning. In the future, he could even see holding a bartending and mixing class for locals. (Abby Harrison can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or abby@gunnisontimes.com)
Photo by Abby Harrison
alley! V n o s i n n u, Gu Thank yo Voted Best Lodging Property in 2023 THANK YOU FOR VOTING
DAVID ROBBINS, O.D. BEST OPTOMETRIST!
At Abba Eye Care, we’re proud to offer a complete range of fashionable eyewear, eye care services, and procedures with the latest in optical technology for our patients. We provide eye care excellence, from routine eye exams to laser eye surgery consultations to stylish prescription and nonprescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, and sunglasses.
420 NORTH MAIN ST., GUNNISON, CO 81230
970-641-2020 ABBAEYECARE-GUNNISON.COM
970.641.1303 email@3riversresort.com 3RiversResort.com
12 • PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS 2023
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BACKSTAGE WITH JENNIFER VANNATTA Bonnie Gollhofer | Specials Editor
BEST ARTIST
From the beginning of her time in the Gunnison Valley, Jennifer Vannatta had a feeling she’d one day step into the world of entrepreneurship as a means to support her creative life. The recent opening of her studio space, Fig Hollow, is an actualization of that dream. Filled to the brim with what she lovingly calls “curated chaos” and spooky decor, the space has become a haven of creative freedom for Jennifer, who got her start in the local art scene with the popular “and” series (think, “wine and watercolors”) at the Gunnison Arts Center in 2010. She also presented yearly offerings of her work at the Bean Coffeehouse and the original Gunnison Brewery. That’s where friends and strangers alike began purchasing her creations and she began to realize that her creativity was a valuable asset, although it took her quite a while to begin referring to herself as an artist. “The community here is so rich with kindness and support and understanding,” she says. “It really built my confidence.” As a self-taught artist, it’s this discovered sense of worth and a desire to empower others to find their own artistic identity that drives her forward. Her vision for Fig Hollow includes a return to teaching creativity-fueled, affordable classes in an alcohol-free atmosphere. From her recent mural series in partnership with the Gunnison Creative District to pet portraits to flipping furniture, Vannatta finds inspiration in the constant challenge of taking on diverse projects while remaining accountable to herself and the community as a female business owner. She takes commissions of all sorts through her Instagram account @fig.hollow. (Bonnie G ollhofer can be contacted at 970.641.1414. or bonnie@gunnisontimes.com.)
The Wheelies and Waves mural in progress, Sept. 2023. One of Vannatta’s many whimsical pet portraits. (Photos by Jennifer Vannatta)
Photo by Jacob Spetzler
PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS 2023 • 13
ALAN WARTES MEDIA
THANK YOU GUNNISON VALLEY FOR VOTING FOR ME! IT’S AN HONOR TO BE YOUR CHOICE!
Thank you Gunnison Valley We are honored to receive the Gunnison People’s Choice Award
for the CALL OR SCAN HERE TO CHECK OUT CURRENT LISTINGS
BEST E HARDWAR STORE!
For 23 Consecutive Years
From tailgating fun to not so fun fall cleanup, we’ve got you covered.
Come see us today! 820 West Tomichi in Gunnison 970-641-1212 www.elevationace.com Colorado Owned and Operated
2023
14 • PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS 2023
ALAN WARTES MEDIA
BACKSTAGE WITH MATT BURT Bonnie Gollhofer | Specials Editor
BEST PHOTOGRAPHER
Matt Burt has always been a visual artist. Drawing and painting came naturally to him as a youngster. Though he was gifted his first digital camera at the age of 16, he initially considered photography a secondary, more documentary-style means of saving images of physical landscapes for later, when he could get to the “real work” of committing those images to canvas. With a paintbrush in one hand and skis in the other, Burt arrived in the Gunnison Valley sight-unseen in the fall of 1989 and took up the studio art program at Western Colorado University, graduating with an emphasis in watercolor in 1994. The transition from painting to a more central focus on expression through photography was a gradual one. A new job and, eventually, starting a family, found him with less and less time to paint, while progressions in digital camera technology proved more and more fascinating. This fascination was cemented into passion when, a few years later, Burt walked into the Gunnison Gallery to get a few photos framed and owner Anne Michel asked him to bring in more work to be featured on the Gallery’s walls. He loves the feeling of community support in Gunnison and enjoys capturing local moments that mix a sense of togetherness and landscape, like the annual holiday tree lighting andFourth of July events. Burt often draws inspiration for his work from the play of natural light in the skies above and across familiar landscapes, returning to favorite spots season after season to experiment with changing conditions. An ongoing series of full moon photographs has offered him monthly opportunities to explore and evolve his technique. “I like to get shots that capture a special moment that’s fleeting,” he said, “Very brief moments that are
just so spectacular I think everyone should see them, and maybe that would foster more appreciation for the natural world.” Burt’s work is currently on display at Gunnison Bank & Trust, online at mattb.net and on Instagram @mattburtphoto. (Bonnie Gollhofer can be contacted at 970.641.1414. or bonnie@gunnisontimes.com)
Photo by Matt Burt
Winter landscape with aspens by Matt Burt.
CK/RL
Christopher Klein Construction, Inc.
VOTED BEST CONTRACTOR TEN TIMES! THANK YOU TO ALL OUR EMPLOYEES, SUBCONTRACTORS, SUPPLIERS AND CLIENTS FOR YOUR ONGOING SUPPORT! -Christopher Klein and Robert Lovato christopherkleinconstruction.com 970-641-1246
Thank you to our staff, our friends, and the Gunnison Valley for the support! Best Cocktail, Restaurant Service, and Bartender... Kyle, you’re a rock star! And best food truck for TACOCAT. -1880 and TACOCAT
THURSDAY TO SUNDAY 4-10 WITH HAPPY HOUR FROM 4-5 206 N. Main St. Gunnison, CO • 970-707-4331 • 1880tapas.com
ALAN WARTES MEDIA
PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS 2023 • 15
A year in photos
Courtesy of the Gunnison Country Times Archives
16 • PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS 2023
ALAN WARTES MEDIA
BACKSTAGE WITH ANDY COCHRAN
BEST FISHING GUIDE
Bella Biondini | Times Editor
a weight of 73.29 pounds. This has largely remained a secret.
Seventeen years later, Andy Cochran still remembers his first trip as a fishing guide on Blue Mesa Reservoir. He and a single client fished out of Lake Fork Marina in early summer, trolling for salmon, browns and rainbows. It was 2006, and lake trout fishing had just started to gain popularity in the Gunnison Valley. The phone at Gene Taylor’s, his employer, rang off the hook with visitors looking for guides on the lake. But there weren’t any. Cochran quickly realized there was a hole in the market, bought a boat and launched his own guide service, Gunnison Sports Outfitters (GSO) Fishing. The rest is history. GSO, nearing its 20th anniversary, now employs five full-time guides in the summer and three in the winter. The business has fished with clients from all 50 states and four countries. More than 70% are repeat customers, and GSO has become a part of many families as summers pass and children grow up. Cochran said he’s adamant about introducing future generations to outdoor sports. Kids under 12 fish free and GSO is a large supporter of the annual Gunnison Fishing Derby. “It's how we grew up and we feel that it's done a lot of positive things for our lives,” Cochran said. “Getting outside can be a good escape for a lot of people. There's a lot of other things to do outdoors, but we're kind of partial to fishing.” Four years ago, GSO began creating and testing its own lures under the same brand. One of them is responsible for the catch of a lake trout that would unofficially smash both state and world records with
(Bella Biondini can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or bella@gunnisontimes.com.)
Photo by Bella Biondini
BACKSTAGE WITH JERMAINE’S Alex McCrindle | Times Sports Editor
BEST DESSERT
Jermaine’s won Best Dessert in this year’s People’s Choice awards for the second year in a row. The cafe fuses together a self-serve frozen yogurt selection, bakery and Jamaican-inspired lunch spread, but for Jermaine Rodney, his restaurant goes further than a colorful menu. His motivation continues to be directed toward the community, creating a sense of “Irie,” a Jamaican term meaning “a positive state of mind.” “I was a part of a panel years ago for Juvenile Services, and we decided there wasn’t a place for students to hang out in Gunnison, especially in the winter,” Rodney said. “This restaurant was created as a safe space for students and families. The concept behind
Jermaine’s is “Irie,” using bright colors and a positive environment so customers embrace the present moment.” The ever-changing frozen yogurt selection, handbaked cannolis, cheesecakes and pastries bring a large audience to Jermaine’s. Vibrant orange couches host high school and college students eager to meet with friends or study for an upcoming exam. “I tell our new staff, we’re not in the bakery business or the dessert business, we’re in the people business, serving this community and providing a space for fellowship,” Rodney said. (Alex McCrindle can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or alex@gunnisontimes.com.)
Photo by Alex McCrindle
PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS 2023 • 17
ALAN WARTES MEDIA
PROUDLY serving the valley for OVER 25 YEARS! Thank you to all our clients, our team and for all of the local SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT. - Boyd, Sharalee, Paige and Brittany THANK YOU Gunnison County for over 20 years of support. I am honored to be chosen your People’s Choice Award winner. BEST NON-TRADITIONAL MEDICINE PRACTITIONER Wishing you a happy and healthy fall. -Roanne Rouse Houck, N.D.
MY MOST SINCERE APPRECIATION, GUNNISON COUNTY, FOR VOTING ME PEOPLE’S CHOICE FOR BEST MASSAGE THERAPIST OF 2023! 100 E. Gothic Ave. Gunnison 970.641.6900
I am honored and grateful for you trusting me to serve you the past 26 years!
-Ingrid Butts
Thank You
to the Gunnison Valley for voting us "BEST LOCALLY MADE PRODUCT", three years running.
Thank you as well all for the decades of support and most recently, our guitar design, the Dobrato. —Kent & Chris Viles
THANK YOU GUNNISON VALLEY FOR VOTING US
BEST LIQUOR STORE! Cheers to another great year ahead.
®® RESOPHONIC GUITARS GUNNI
S O N C O LO R A D O
641-5054 • 202 E TOMICHI, GUNNISON
18 • PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS 2023
ALAN WARTES MEDIA
BACKSTAGE WITH TANGO Madeline Thomas
BEST CLOTHING STORE
Tango has something for everyone. Whether you are headed to the rodeo, to a gala in Crested Butte or need a thoughtful gift for your favorite gal pal, this vibrant shop is the place to go. The owner, Cherrie Haugh, tells me with pride that this is Tango’s third year in a row winning Best Clothing Store for the People’s Choice Awards. In 2019, when Tango was up for sale, Cherrie was worried her favorite boutique would be lost forever. That’s when her husband asked “why don’t you buy it?”, so she did. Cherrie had no retail experience when she purchased the store in July of 2019, but with help from the previous owner, she quickly put her creativity and passion for fashion to work, learning about running a boutique and the art of maintaining Tango’s unique, classy and chic style. Along with the crash course in retail, Cherrie also had to navigate COVID closures and subsequent hurdles as a new business owner. She overcame those challenges, and, as we can see from the People’s Choice winning streak, Tango remains a true Gunnison gem. Cherrie admits that much of Tango’s success can be attributed to her knowledgeable and reliable staff. Cheri Meyer was the manager for the previous owner and continues in that role today. Cheri is, no doubt, the face of the business. Locals and visitors alike seek her valuable advice on everything from dresses for special events to jeans for day use. Quincey Severson is the newest recruit, but you would never know it as her style and expertise fit in with the store effortlessly. These ladies know fashion. They make you feel welcome and are genuinely willing to help you find the perfect piece.
Photo by Madeline Thomas
THANKS TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS!
automotive t s e mechanic B
BEST AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR SHOP 2023
STANDARD TIRE 412. W. Tomichi Ave. Gunnison | 970.641.0202
PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS 2023 • 19
ALAN WARTES MEDIA
THANK YOU, GUNNISON FOR VOTING US BEST PET BOARDING 2023! A sincere thank you to Gunnison and beyond for voting us BEST CLOTHING STORE for THE 3RD YEAR IN A ROW
The Rocky Mountain Cannabis team is so grateful for the community support this year! We appreciate you all and love serving this incredible town. Thank you so so much!
#cometangowithus
Bridgett - Cherrie - Quincey - Cheri follow us @gunnisontango
144 N. Main St. • 970.641.3833
Thank you for trusting us to care for your beloved pets!
Voted Best Veterinary for the sixth Year in a Row. Emergency Care • Preventative Medicine •
• Wellness Exams • Surgery Services
200 N Spruce St, Gunnison, CO 81230 • (970) 641-1555
20 • PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS 2023
ALAN WARTES MEDIA
Winner Best Restaurant and Best Happy Hour 2023!
THANK YOU GUNNISON VALLEY AND SURROUNDING AREAS FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT! SPECIAL THANKS TO ALL MY FOOD AND LIQUOR REPS, AND MY WHOLE TEAM AT BLACKSTOCK BISTRO! AN EXTRA SPECIAL THANK YOU TO MICAH AND CHRIS IN MY KITCHEN, THESE GUYS WORK THEIR BUTTS OFF WEEK IN AND OUT! THANK YOU!! FROM CHEF OWNER AND GM, LUKE MARTIN.
COMING SOON! New menu items! Wines, winter cocktails and food.
BLACKSTOCKBISTRO.COM 2021 Gunnison’s People’s Choice OPEN MONDAY - SATURDAY AT 5PM BEST CHEF, BEST BARTENDER, BEST HAPPY HOUR 122 W. TOMICHI AVENUE | GUNNISON BE SURE TO CALL AND MAKE YOUR RESERVATION 970.641.4394