Readers' Choice 2016 by Billings Gazette

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READERS’ CHOICE reveals winners E

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PEOPLE, PLACES & FUN The People ............................................. 5-8 The Places & Fun.................................. 10-13

BUSINESS & SHOPPING The Businesses & Shopping ................. 14-36

FOOD, DRINK & ENTERTAINMENT The Food & Drink ............................... 36-45 The Entertainment ............................. 45-46

Readers’ Choice is a special advertising section of The Billings Gazette. Gener al Manager Dave Worstell Advertising Director Ryan Brosseau Advertising Manager Shelli Scott Special Sections Coordinator Spencyr Knatterud Content Editors Darrell Ehrlick Amy Joyner

Readers Choice: It’s all about you DARRELL EHRLICK • dehrlick@billingsgazette.com It’s all about you. Really. The Billings Gazette Readers’ Choice awards, now in its 17th year, is about what customers and residents think about the best people, places, services and entertainment. It’s a popularity contest in the best possible sense since readers vote for their favorites. For those new to this award, here’s quick rundown of The Billings Gazette Readers’ Choice Awards.

Why Readers’ Choice? Because you know where to get the good stuff. And you should share that information with your friends. Think of Readers’ Choice as word-of-mouth advertising on steroids (but the good kind, not the baseball-biking-cheating kind). We are constantly looking at the best places to eat, the favorite places to shop and who others trust to get important work done. Though the categories will change a bit from year to year to reflect those consumer changes, many familiar categories remain. We ask readers to give us their favorite places to shop and do business. Then, we put it to the vote. The winners are selected and The Gazette staff gets to ask them about their secrets to success. How many winners? There is just one winner in more than 130 categories. The categories can change, but the idea is the same: Who is the local leader in each of the business categories? Nominations open during the spring and voting happens during the summer. Be sure to stay tuned to our homepage: billingsgazette.com/readerschoice

Record winner There are several businesses that have won a Readers’ Choice award every year, but in different categories. Some have won it every year they’ve been in business. But only two — during the 17 years of voting — have won the same category every year in a row. Montana HotSpring Spas, 2217 Grand Ave., and Scheels, 1121 Shiloh Crossing Blvd., have taken the award every year since its inception. And there are important lessons, as told through Montana HotSpring Spa’s owner Scott Prociv. He said that the key to his business is being able to change and adapt. Hot tubs were once thought of as luxury items and not as common. But now, hot tubs and spas are much more focused on health and relaxation. His business still sells hot tubs and products similar to those that were around years ago, but his mission and his customers’ needs have changed. Scheels is proof positive that business owners must adapt and offer something new — not just new products but a new experience. And, a ferris wheel and homemade candy kitchen aren’t found in every sporting goods store because Scheels has found a way to be much more than that.

The best wishes These businesses and service providers are the best in their category. And as such, we’d like to give them a hearty congratulations for being recognized by those who matter most, the customers. On behalf of The Billings Gazette, we send along our best wishes for another successful year. You’re the best.

Cover design Toni Schultz Access Readers’ Choice at www.billingsgazette.com/specialsections

BILLINGSGAZETTTE.COM/READERSCHOICE Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

People

Attorney Jeff Oven, Crowley Fleck Crowley Fleck Transwestern Plaza II, 490 N. 31st St.

For voting us

Vallie Automotive Center 2071 Rosebud Dr.

BesT JeWeLry sTOre

Tim Vallie knows cars. As owner of Vallie Automotive Center since 2004, Vallie has worked on all makes and models, foreign and domestic, for 23 years. “I’ve always had a passion for the work I do as long as I can remember,” Vallie said. Vallie and his team provide a suite of auto services to keep your vehicle running its best. “I enjoy working with the customers and trouble-shooting their problems,” he said, adding that you can always bring your vehicle in to Vallie Automotive Center for an honest assessment. “We work with customers to give them a concise, straight-forward snapshot of what’s wrong,” he said. As the temperature dips this season, Vallie recommends having your vehicle winterized— checking the fluid levels and battery. “These things are easy to neglect, but you don’t want to be caught out in the cold when they fail you,” he said. In addition to a wide range of mechanic services, he also makes strides to improve the community by giving away four or five cars each year to families in need. “I feel fortunate in this life, and it’s just one way I like to give back,” he said.

Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

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2016 20 16 REA READER DERS’ DER S’ CCHOICE HOICE

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A partner in the Crowley Fleck Litigation Department, Jeff Oven is a trial attorney who has tried cases in both state and federal courts. “I mostly represent businesses. I do trial work—anything that goes to trial,” said Oven, who received his law degree with honors from the University of Wyoming College of Law, in 1999. He received his bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University. “I’m humbled by this (award). It’s terrific,” he said. “I love the law. Our system, it is the best in the world.” Oven has practiced in New York, Los Angeles, Colorado, Seattle and Florida, but knows

Auto Mechanic

Since 2008, Lisa Woods has made it her business to take the stress out of filing taxes and helping businesses with their payroll and bookkeeping. Woods said she enjoys working with numbers and helping her clients grow their business. “It’s also very rewarding to help maximize tax returns at the end of the year,” she said. Offering tax prep, bookkeeping, payroll and a suite of other financial services, Woods prides herself on providing a personalized customer experience for her clients. “It’s important for me to get to know them, their life circumstances, their business so we can keep them apprised of the new tax law changes for the year-end taxes and new law affecting their day-to-day operations in business. I am honored to receive this award for two years in a row now,” Woods said. “I try to make taxes something that people don’t dread.”

Lisa Woods, Woods Accounting 1211 Grand Ave. #4

Accountant

Montana attorneys are top-notch. “I am privileged to work with the Montana Bar. Without a doubt, the best lawyers I work with are in Montana,” Oven said. Oven’s practice focuses on commercial litigation, including complex natural resource litigation, energy and mineral litigation, royalty and tax litigation, public utility litigation, and patent litigation. Oven has handled cases involving pipeline explosion and release liability, spill and pollution liability, and environmental damage and restoration. Jeff has litigated against numerous private individuals and advocacy groups, as well as disputes involving state, federal and tribal agencies.

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insurance industry for 14 years. Owning her own company for two years, she said she continues growing her customer Meier Family Chiropractic relationships. 3419 Central Ave. Ste. C “I tell people that insurance is not sexy, but I am passionate about helping people The chiropractors at Meier Family Chiropracand their families. Insurance is very tic strive to do more than provide adjustments important,” Stiller said. “I love helping for their patients, they want to share a compeople take care of themselves and their prehensive view on overall wellness. belongings, their environment and their Providing care for patients ranging in age futures.” Insurance protection is available from newborns to the elderly and everyone for auto, home, renters, life, business, moin between, Meier Family Chiropractic truly torcycle and recreational insurance. serves the entire family. Her customers are in the Billings West “We enjoy helping our patients learn about End, Billings Heights, Downtown Billings, true health and living a more active and full Lockwood and Laurel. life,” Dr. Jeff Meier said. “I help customers like you identify the Celebrating their 10th Anniversary in insurance coverage that best fits your Billings, the staff at Meier Chiropractic is comneeds. This process is straightforward prised of husband and wife Drs. Kimberly and and personalized to help make you smartJeffrey Meier as well as Dr. Donnie Smith. er about insurance. I have the knowledge “We each offer our own niche specialty, and experience to help you better underwhether it’s children’s chiropractic, prenatal or stand your coverage options,” Stiller said. sports-focused,” Jeff said. Stiller is also experienced in financial options for the future, such as Individual Retirement Accounts and other investments.

Jim Stanton, Billings Central’s head football coach, is this year’s Readers’ Choice winner for best coach. HANNAH POTES/Gazette Staff‌

2016 READERS’ CHOICE

Coach

Jim Stanton, Billings Central football coach

Billings Central head football coach and middle school principal has had a front-row seat for 15 years watching dozens of athletes and students excel in the classroom and on the field in Eastern A Conference football. “Education and football have a lot of the same characteristics: discipline, be your best, treat people right. It is the same, just on a different field,” Stanton said, adding that he enjoys giving those skills to his players, as much as they enjoy the experience. “It is new every year, new faces. The energy they create comes back to you (as a coach). They know they get one chance at it.” “Education is really important, and football is a tool that can help (players) out in the classroom. Education is the priority, and it is really pretty special at our school. Grades. That is why they are here.” Stanton added, “It’s not just the relationships with the players and other coaches. In our setting, it is also about the families. We are developing positive relationships with parents, as well.”

Insurance Agent Angela Stiller, Farmers Insurance 2646 Grand Ave. Suite 9 As a local Farmers Insurance agent in Billings, Angela Stiller has worked in the

Interior Decorator Kibler & Kirch Red Lodge — 101 N. Broadway Billings — 104 N. Broadway Ste. 201 Jeremiah Young, creative director for Kibler & Kirch, and his talented staff enjoy making the world a more beautiful place one living space at a time. After more than 25 years, Kibler & Kirch epitomizes quality, custom home design paired with innovation. Young said a number of factors make Kibler & Kirch’s approach unique. “Our level of service and expertise is second to none,” he said. “Our professionals are perfectionists who won’t settle for anything less than world-class.” Kibler & Kirch’s staff all bring something different to the table, including more than 100 years of decorating and design experience. Kibler & Kirch has also celebrated seeing their work splashed across the pages of world-renowned design magazines and other publications these past few years, evidencing the design team’s vast talent and polished work. Young said he is pleased to invite clients to come visit him and his talented staff

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at their new design studio, located in the emphasized she’s not standing in the place of historic Stapleton building in downtown a doctor, but compliments other treatments. Billings. It is here where art, imagination and In addition to offering a more traditional design are brought to life. massage, she is also offering cupping – where suction cups are used to pull muscle and tissues up, rather than pressing flesh down. “I love helping people feel better,” Thormahlen said.

Massage Therapist

Teresa Thormahlen, Body Wise Massage and Wellness 3307 Grand Ave., Suite 101 Teresa Thormahlen isn’t a miracle worker, it just feels that way to many of her clients. Thormahlen, who has been giving therapeutic massages since 1997, has seen the practice and art go from a luxury to a medical necessity for many with chronic pain or high stress. She is trained in many different techniques and one of the main reasons why she may have taken this year’s Billings Gazette Readers’ Choice award is because she listens for what her clients really need, not to what she wants. And there’s a misperception that massages are something too indulgent. “It’s often not fru-fru,” she said. Her client mix is male and female, and they often come to her for relief from chronic, often debilitating pain. After a session, they often move better with less pain. Thormahlen

Mortgage Loan Officer Belinda Osborne, Keystone Mortgage Co. 2442 1st Ave. N. Belinda Osborne specializes in the tough cases. As a mortgage loan officer at Keystone Mortgage, she knows that mortgages, like the right house, aren’t the same for every person. That’s why she can help a client search through different loan programs to find the one that fits their individual need. Because many banks only have a limited number of programs they can offer through their system, Osborne loves that she can shop through a number of lenders and programs to find more options. Her clients have her cell phone number and they know she’ll work hard to find a pro-

Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

Community means everything. That’s why we’re proud to be here to help life go right™ – and to support our community. If there’s anything you need, call us.

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Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

State Farm, Bloomington, IL

gram. Osborne said she also believes that part of receiving the Readers’ Choice honor is because she remembers to walk clients through the sometimes confusing process of a loan. Since a customer may not buy a house often, the process can be intimidating; knowing what to do is just as important as finding the right program. “I also believe that one particular challenging situation in life shouldn’t mean that you can’t get a home later,” Osborne said. That often means reviewing credit and helping collect the right kind of documents. “I love putting all the puzzle pieces together, and when you have experience, you can find just the right fit,” Osborne said.

Photographer Clark Marten Photography 2606 Montana Avenue “It’s not what you have in life, but who you have in life that matters most.” For photographers Clark and son, Rudi Marten, those words are much more than a saying – they reflect the essence of Clark Marten Photography. In business for 30 years, photographer E

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Clark Marten recently moved his studio from his home outside of Columbus to a building on historic Montana Avenue. Rudi joined the family business four years ago. Together, the creative duo produces amazing photography with a distinct flair. Specializing in high school seniors and family photography, Clark and Rudi work hard to ensure each portrait uniquely captures their subject. “Our work has a lot of depth plus an artistic edge blurring the lines between photography and art,” Rudi said. For both Rudi and Clark, the goal with every wall portrait is that the eye first sees the faces, then radiates outward to the environment and finally the frame. Clark Marten also has credentials behind his artistry. Accredited by the Professional Photographers of America, he has earned the title Master Craftsman Photographer – the highest degree available. He also sits on the national Board of Directors for PPA. “We absolutely thank the community for voting us Readers’ Choice once again,” Rudi said. “Our success wouldn’t be possible without your support.”

Real Estate Agent

Tracy Moore Photographers 114 N. Broadway

Liz Francis, Granite Realty 2800 Central Avenue, Unit A

A timely and true quote that photographer Tracy Moore has on her website reads, “To me, a no-trespassing sign means it’s probably an awesome location for a shoot.” Of course, the vivacious 30-year-old business owner is speaking of shooting professional photos. Focusing her creative, artistic skills, Moore finds herself shooting many, many female high-school seniors. “Senior girls I have a strong passion for and a great connection with. I do shoot other things, but don’t promote that as much as the senior girls,” she said. This year she held a Facebook contest for her senior clients to complete good deeds for others. Spring, 2017, the two winners receive a paid trip to California. “I think they made a good impact in Billings,” Moore added. Her portfolio includes senior portraits of male subjects, too; plus the self-taught photographer takes her services to many weddings each year in and around Billings.

A local Billings girl through and through, Liz Francis seeks to bring her lifetime of area knowledge with her in real estate transactions. “I was blessed to grow up in the everchanging city of Billings. I have passion and enthusiasm for Billings and all our beautiful surrounding areas,” Francis said. Francis has been with Granite Realty for a year. “I feel excited to win this award. My customers are investing in themselves and creating a place they can call home. It’s encouraging and I am humbled to be that advisor for them,” Francis said. A new mother, Francis sees what a home purchase means to a family. “My philosophy is quite simple; I am in business to help people. (I want clients) to have the security of knowing they are associated with a successful, dedicated, and caring professional,” Francis said. Francis also works on recreational property and commercial transactions.

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Billings Gazette 2016 Readersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Choice

Places & Fun Bowling Center

Ford explains. “Our group training programs are extensive with over 130 classes.” All facilities offer something for everyone, from toddlers to Sunset Bowl seniors. Granite Health and Fitness’ amenities are as varied as 1625 Central Ave. the customers Ford serves. Granite Health and Fitness wants customers to be a part of a fitness community that fits them — It’s easy to see why customers flock to Sunset Bowl to where members are provided with encouragement and aren’t celebrate one of America’s favorite pastimes – bowling. simply a number. Open for business in 1955, Sunset Bowl offers 24 full“What helps make Granite Health and Fitness such a great service lanes (and bumpers for the kids), full-service pro shop, place is our fantastic members who are dedicated and combirthday parties, snack bar, lounge with a full liquor license, mitted to making life changes,” Ford states. banquet room in the lower level and arcade games. Granite Health and Fitness strives to be on the cutting edge of For those looking to mix things up a bit, Sunset Lanes offers fitness trends and the diverse interests of their members. Ford disco bowling on Friday and Saturday nights. focuses on consumer needs, educating her staff and requiring “We get seniors, kids, families, Special Olympics bowlinstructor certifications even when it’s not a national standard. ers, league players and everyone in between,” said long-time “At Granite Health and Fitness, we require our instructors to manager Jeanne Moses. maintain certification to best meet and exceed our members’ League play for juniors, men, women, and mixed is also individual needs,” Ford said. offered. Granite Health and Fitness supports and stays active in the “We’ve also enhanced the bowling experience with new Billings’ community. Staff and instructors are heavily involved state-of-the-art 42” overhead flat screens,” Moses said. in supporting the community’s schools, sports, and nonprofits. Granite promotes and supports the PEAK afterschool

Fitness Center Granite Health & Fitness 3838 Avenue B 1323 Main St. 15 Avanta Way

Thank you

Granite Health and Fitness proudly serves and supports the Billings community with three convenient locations and unique features including secured 24-hour access and more than 100 classes. It’s easy to see why Granite is the premier destination for health and fitness solutions. It’s also been the Readers’ Choice Winner seven times. “We pride ourselves on providing the highest quality fitness experience and customer service,” owner and manager Shara

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OF BILLI

Thank You E10

BI L

2016 READERS’ CHOICE B

1005 24th St. W. Billings, MT 406-652-8878

Golf Course Pryor Creek Golf Club 1292 Pryor Creek Rd., Huntley In Montana, golf is not just a spring and summer sport. According to Joe Link, owner and general manager of Pryor Creek Golf Club, fall and winter are great times to get out and play. “We are open every day that there’s no snow on the course,” he said. “Folks love to get out during the off-season because it’s more relaxed. In the winter the ground is harder so the ball goes farther—it becomes a different game.” A four-time Readers’ Choice winner, Pryor Creek features 36 holes (18 for members and 18 open to the public), and the fairways are wall-to-wall grass—good news for all the slicers and shankers out there. “Fall is such a beautiful time and the course looks the best it ever has,” says Link, who has owned and operated the course for 35 years, said. Each hole offers a unique view and experience, another reason golfers from Billings aren’t afraid to jump on the interstate and make the short drive to Huntley to play a round. Link credits the course’s dedicated staff and reasonable

SCORE!

in Billings for 11 Years!

WINNER ES

IN T O F BILL

• New digital high definition lenses • Complete optical department offering a large selection of fashion eye wear at reasonable prices • Ultra thin and anti-reflective non-glare lenses • Complete line of protective sports eye wear • Repair service • Senior discounts • Eye exams arranged • Authorized Varilux distributor

Thank you

for voting us your Favorite

Golf Course.

We are honored.

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2016 READERS’ CHOICE

WINNER B

WATCHING FAMILIES GROW FOR 24 YEARS!

GS GAZETT LIN

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program in School District 2 and has recently partnered with Billings Clinic providing their Elite SST program to Junior High and High School level athletes. Ford thanks Granite’s dedicated staff and members for their continued support and adds, “there’s nothing that motivates us more than helping someone change their life.”

Serving the community since 1952

652-4347 • 2203 Broadwater Ave.

CALL 348-3900 Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

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REAL ESTATE AGENCY

Thanks for voting us your #1 Real Estate Agency again!

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BOB ZELLAR/Gazette Staff‌

The Northern Hotel, this year’s Readers’ Choice selection for best hotel, has won the category four years in a row.

prices for their continued success. “We’re a golfer’s golf course,” Link said, adding that he encourages eager newbies to come out and give them a try, too. “This is a great place to get out, relax and have some fun.”

traveling around many the living people’s bodies; the entity of Preston Moss walks down the central staircase, and in the master bedroom. Visit the mansion and decide for yourself. Hours are at Mossmansion.com

Hotel

Haunted spot Moss Mansion 914 Division St. Built for Preston and Martha Moss in 1902, this English Renaissance mansion is now a very authentic museum. But is it haunted? Rumors abound, locally and online. The main structure could appear scary, admits Jennette Rasch, the Moss operations manager for three years. “No, I haven’t had any such experiences. But, I’ve heard from others who have,” Rasch said. Working there day and often night, is “not necessarily scary. It’s a happy place. The people who lived here (100 years ago) seem to be a close knit, happy family, I hear,” Rasch said. She knows that stories are out there, telling of haunting child and adult voices of those who had lived in the mansion. With 28 rooms, the 45-foot-tall home has plenty of room for stories, like these found on Hauntedhouses.com: A female voice was singing the Billiards Room; a cool wind was felt

On the Bridge at ZooMontana

Northern Hotel 19 N. Broadway Discover a hotel that defines a new dimension of luxury, the Northern Hotel, unpretentiously luxurious! Historical charm and comfort meld at the Northern Hotel. As the only 4-star urban hotel in Montana, the Northern Hotel features a suite of amenities that includes luxurious, plush rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, valet parking, easy access to on-site gourmet restaurant TEN, and much more. After undergoing a multi-million-dollar renovation, the Northern Hotel is the perfect place to stay for the traveling executive or vacationing family. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Northern Hotel’s unique character and charming ambiance are reason enough to stop and stay. The hotel’s convenient downtown location features ample access to shopping, fine dining and entertainment and don’t forget the complimentary valet and self-parking.

Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

Good to know.

Visit our website at floberg.com RESIDENTIAL | COMMERCIAL | FARM & RANCH | RELOCATION

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Martial Arts School Park’s Martial Arts Academy 1920 Central Ave. Students of all ages, even entire families, have found the benefits of martial arts through Park’s Martial Arts Academy. “If you ask any of our students, you hear nothing but positive things,” said Frank Park, a martial arts instructor, who has taught for seven years at the school owned by his parents, Suk and Youn Park. “We get people, who even though they stop for different reasons, they come back.” He has heard those positive remarks from those who knew the Parks since their school began. It’s all available at Park’s — Tae Kwon Do, Judo, Hapkido, weapons training and self-defense. Those who teach at Park’s learned from Grand Master Suk Park, who started Park’s Martial Arts Academy 32 years ago. He was a world class Judo competitor for South Korea and later the Olympic Judo coach for the Netherlands. All instructors are certified black belts, with no less than five years of training experience.

Place for Family Fun ZooMontana 2100 Shiloh Rd. From day one of ZooMontana’s revival, it was the zoo’s mission to create a fun and family-friendly destination for Billings residents and tourists. Families can enjoy a safe and friendly environment to not only learn about the amazing creatures found along earth’s 45th parallel, but to also play. The addition of a new, hands-on and accessible playground last year made it so that kids of all ages could have a guaranteed fun experience while visiting Montana’s only zoo. The addition of a second playground later this year will help add to this promise of fun. Throughout the year, the zoo caters to kids and family, planning programming that screams, “Fun.” Events such as “Boo at the Zoo” and Family Fun Day welcome in thousands to enjoy the zoo’s incredible wildlife, manicured grounds and informational education programs. “We take real pride in the fact that we cater to kids, and this award shows us that we are doing things right!” said Jeff Ewelt,

Place to have a wedding Billings Depot 2310 Montana Ave.

“blank slate” that can be transformed into something unique and special for every bride’s wedding day, as well as other community celebrations. No two weddings look alike, which is part of the charm of this space. “Many of the original rooms have returned to their original use,” Mercer said. The “ladies waiting room” is now used as the bridal suite. Able to accommodate small and large weddings, the Depot staff offers no-cost, in-depth wedding budget consultation, giving brides and grooms a great start in the overall planning of their special day. Call now to schedule a free bridal consultation and learn how the Billings Depot is the perfect place to create memories and “Reserve Your Space in History.” “We are so excited to receive this honor for the fourth year in a row,” said Mercer, “plus be named as one of the top 100 wedding venues in the U.S. What an honor!”

Built in 1909, the Billings Depot is a gorgeous landmark that has been at the center of Billings history for more than a century. Hosting U.S. Presidents, prince and princesses, movie stars, and other celebrities, the Depot’s walls are infused with history. Today, the Depot serves as Billings’ top gathering place for special events, including being rated as the top wedding venue in Billings four years in a row. The Depot’s status as a non-profit has helped hundreds of couples afford to begin their “happily ever after” within its storied walls. Nearly every guest that walks through the doors comments on the beautiful restoration and architecture of this St. John’s Lutheran Ministries/ property. Mission Ridge “When our brides and grooms begin their happily ever after here, their story becomes part of our story. We love that,” said Corner of Rimrock and Shiloh Road Depot Executive Director, Jennifer Mercer. With its vaulted ceiling, Roman columns and signature For 53 years, St. John’s Lutheran Ministries has arched window, the grand “Passenger Station” has an elegant served the Billings community and served its mission of feel that envelops guests. The “Baggage Room” is the larger, providing living opportunities within nurturing environreception-style room. This high-ceilinged space is the perfect

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Ski Mountain/ Resort Red Lodge Mountain 305 Ski Run Road, Red Lodge, MT Red Lodge Mountain is a down-to-earth ski area that prizes great skiing more than glitz and glamour, and nowhere is that more evident than in their diverse mix of terrain and friendly staff. The team at Red Lodge Mountain is excited for the coming season, which opens Nov. 25. Early snowfall in September and October indicates a snowy winter is on the way, and crews on the mountain have been busy preparing. As has been done for the past few years, the trail crew has continued to thin the tree islands on the mountain. Not only does this reduce fuel for potential fires, but it also opens those areas to skiers and snowboarders who like to find powder stashes in gladed terrain. In addition, the snow making team and the lift mechanics have been performing annual maintenance to ensure all systems are operating safely and efficiently. The mountain will continue to offer a diverse mix of ski and snowboard lessons

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Mitchell, who for four years has co-owned Central Wellness with her mother, Janine Griffin. Though their weight-loss program, they aim to help people lose weight and maintain their new vitality, Mitchell said. “Our biggest emphasis is on the maintenance end. It’s not the weight loss that is the (biggest) issue. It is maintenance. We are making a lifetime change with our clients. We teach them how to eat – a disciplined way of eating. And they weigh in and receive counseling weekly. “All three of our coaches have had weight-loss issues and can sympathize. To start, each client sees a nurse practitioner and has a blood draw, then medical conditions are addressed. We make sure we have clients at the right levels to achieve that weight loss.” Mitchell said most important is the sense of community at Central Wellness. “We give them a support team. There are always successes and failures making a life change. …After the program, we are still giving them tips weekly, and they can always come weigh in,” Mitchell said.

“Life is not enjoyable when you don’t have that well feeling anymore,” said Ali

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for those of all abilities and ages. Among its more popular offerings is the Training Team program, which is a nine-week youth program designed to develop and improve fundamental skills for skiers ages 5 and older. For those looking to enter the sport, the learn-to-ski programs are very popular, with packages available for all ages that include a lift ticket, lesson and rental equipment. Knowing that skiing can be cost prohibitive for families, Red Lodge Mountain will again offer discounted lift tickets available for purchase on its website at www. redlodgemountain.com The season at Red Lodge Mountain wouldn’t be complete without a full calendar of events, which will include the ever popular Winter Carnival in March, the Scrap Yard Terrain Park Series, and the Town Series race league, to name a few. All events can be found on the mountain’s website.

ments of hope, dignity and love every day. The ministries have grown to meet the changing needs of the community and “are driven by a love in Christ for those who most need to be lifted high.” More than 600 residents call St. John’s home and enter the continuum of care at different levels. Once in the continuum, residents have priority access to care no matter their needs. In 1998 Mission Ridge, a joint partnership between St. Vincent Healthcare and St. John’s was welcomed into the family of ministries as the first Continuing Care Retirement Community in Montana. The family of ministries continued to grow and now serve the communities of Laurel (The Crossings) and Red Lodge (The Willows). In October 2016, WyndStone opened its doors and was welcomed to the family. WyndStone is a remarkable retirement community in Billings Heights featuring 83 apartments of independent living, independent living with supportive services, and assisted living with memory care support. For more information on WyndStone, contact 406-655-7700 or visit www. WyndStone.org.

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BUSINESS & SHOPPING Air/Heating Contractor Comfort Heating & Air Conditioning 9934 Interstate 90 Frontage Rd.

Antique Store Yesteryears Antique Mall 102 N. 29th St.

Colleen Hunsaker knows all about antiques and collectables. The owner/operator of Yesteryears Antique Mall spent a The people of Billings, great employees, above-par cusgood portion of her childhood helping her grandparents run a tomer service and the best products have resulted in Comfort general store. Heating & Air Conditioning’s seventh consecutive Readers’ “The value of everyday items just got in my blood,” she says. Choice award. This second-generation, family-owned business Although the mall has been open since 2005, it has expanded is in its 32nd year serving Billings and the surrounding areas. seven times and now features 65 dealer spaces along with a Owners Jeff and Tony Scherr state that their greatest asset coffee kiosk. is their employees. “Our inventory changes every single day,”Hunsaker notes. “We truly have the best crew. From the installers, service “We do everything from the turn-of-the-century to the 1960s technicians and office staff to the managers. Without these and tons of collectables.” great people and their skills, our customers would not get the Hunsaker also has an expansive selection of furniture, level of service that we provide. Great customers deserve great household furnishings, glassware, pottery, home décor, service and we strive to provide our best every day.” jewelry, cowboy paraphernalia, advertising signage and the list Their services include installation of complete heating goes on. and cooling systems, repair and maintenance of existing “If someone collects something, we have it,” she said. systems and also replacement of older, inefficient units to Hunsaker enjoys connecting customers with that perfect, higher efficiency products. They offer Rheem and Armhard-to-find item. She also enjoys learning the curious histories strong heating and cooling products. In addition, Comfort behind the pieces. Heating is an exclusive Mitsubishi Diamond dealer, offer“Every item is unique with a story to tell,” she said. ing the very best in ductless heating and cooling systems. These non-traditional systems are popular due to their efficiency and versatility, capable of heating or cooling just one room or an entire house. In terms of accessories, Comfort Heating uses their Fred’s Appliance Store extensive training to offer customers humidifiers, electronic 2649 King Ave. W. air cleaners and thermostats (including wireless thermostats that allow for Internet connectivity). You can control As the general manager for Montana’s three Fred’s Applithe temperature in your home from anywhere in the world. But no matter the products they sell or how well they repair ance locations in Missoula, Kalispell and Billings, Doug Standley said, “The customer’s perception, to me, is number one.” and maintain equipment, the number-one priority is their He knows that customers count on each Fred’s store stocking customers. “Customers make a business,” notes Jeff Scherr, “Without a full inventory, having knowledgeable sales people, reliable staff and service professionals who service everything Fred’s sells. them, being in business is pointless.”

“Our biggest advantage is we have a lot of inventory in stock. (With other stores), if a washer breaks, you wait two to three weeks to order and get the model you want. Here, it is available for immediate delivery. And if something breaks, we fix it,” he said. That is especially important in Billings. “The Billings market draws from a very large trade area. Many customers drive a long way, bring a trailer and truck expecting to bring (the purchase) home that day. The reception in Billings has been very good.” Perhaps that is because of Fred’s staff. “The thing I’m most proud of is our people. We are all trying to chase the bottom price and we have trained salespeople who help steer you in the right direction,” Standley said.

Auto Body Repair American Auto Body 650 S. 20th St. W. The newest automotive technology and repeat customers keep Todd Litton busy 12 months of the year. As owner of American Auto Body for 31 years with his wife, Erin, Todd said business is always busy. “People are still wrecking (cars) every day, but traditionally winter is the busier time. But, we have a steady clientele,” he said. This past year’s hail storms have brought an enormous burst of business. With their daughter and son joining their 25-employee

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team, the Littons know that people are what matter. Most employees are trained in-house, and Litton added, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Good people want to work here. We have full benefitsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;401K, health insurance and such. Our industry is changing rapidly. New cars and all their electronics are being introduced. There are newer products like aluminum and carbon fiber. We are always training just to keep up. Cars today are a thousand times more complicated than they were 15 years ago.â&#x20AC;? However, their daily mindset has not changed. He said it remains â&#x20AC;&#x153;doing the best job we can for each and every customer.â&#x20AC;?

Auto Parts Store Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Reilly Auto Parts 4 Billings locations, 1 in Laurel After hearing of his companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Readersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Choice award, Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Reilly Auto Parts District Manager Cory Anderson immediately gave top credit to the employees in all regional Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Reilly locations. Anderson oversees 12 stores in the geographic area from Billings to Lander, Wyo., and also Miles City. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our stores are doing very well. A lot of it has to do with customer service, parts availability and the quality of our parts,â&#x20AC;? Anderson said. He said the company has an in-depth inventory system that helps ensure that a local store carries the parts that are specifically needed on-site. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We call it â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;lost sales.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; If a customer asks for a part, it is recorded. If we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a part, our inventory team looks into it to determine the local need. Each store is different. People living around each store have different needs in that market. And our employees know those people. Some team members have been in the parts business 30 years and have built relationships with customers,â&#x20AC;? Anderson said. Until 11 years ago, the parts stores oper-

ated under different names before becoming Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Reilly.

Automotive Service Brownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Auto Service 1144 Broadwater Ave. 1313 1st Ave. N 624 S. 20th St. W. Since 1956, the staff at Brownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Auto Service has been delivering on their promise to provide exemplary customer service at a fair price. As a locally-owned, family-operated business, Brownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s continues to raise the bar and expand their suite of services. From tires and transmissions to gears and gaskets, Brownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s has you covered. Regionally recognized as one of the best places to fix auto transmissions, the team at Brownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s focuses on doing all the little things right. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a collective effort, one made possible by everyone working well together,â&#x20AC;? said owner Gordon Tryan. Of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 42 employees, the average length of employment is 14 years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re more than a team, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a family,â&#x20AC;? he said. Celebrating 60 years in business, Tryan and his crew have stopped to examine the elements to the businessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; continued success. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It boils down to trust, service and commitment,â&#x20AC;? he said. Trust, he said, has to be earned over a period of time offering exemplary service. Trust is also accrued through referrals. Tryan and his team know that when you refer a friend to them, you are also referring a part of yourself. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a promise he and his team take very seriously. Skilled, prompt and dedicated service is also a cornerstone to their business. Brownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

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strives to ensure service long after the vehicle leaves the shop. The third element to their successâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;commitmentâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;works several ways. Tryan is committed to offering employees competitive wages and is also committed to giving back to our community. â&#x20AC;&#x153;To our loyal customers and everyone who voted for us, we want to say â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;thank you for trusting usâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not something we take for granted,â&#x20AC;? Tryan said.

Bike Shop The Spoke Shop 1910 Broadwater Ave. At The Spoke Shop, owner and manager Dean Cromwell sees the future moving down the road and up the hillside with better technology and durability. Though the shop has been open since 1973, the last five years that Cromwell has been the owner have brought continuing technical changes to the industry, he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everything as far as biking goes is changing,â&#x20AC;? Cromwell said, listing all types of familiar existing bicycle types, and now, pedal-assist electric bikes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;(Electric bikes) have been around, but it has really taken off recently. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gotten a lot of publicity in the national spotlight.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;The trend for our store is selling more fullsuspension mountain bikes,â&#x20AC;? he said, adding that another push will be to work with electric pedal assist bikes, which appeal to baby boomers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They typically have discretionary income, more time, are active and staying healthy. The electric bike helps facilitate that.â&#x20AC;? The Spoke Shop intends to develop more ways to sell and service all bikes, including the popular electric bike, in a larger space by next spring, the owner said.

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Dave Luce started TNT Automotive in 1997 selling used cars. In 2001 he and his wife, Michelle, took their business to the water. After adding marina sales and service as a Yamaha outboard dealer 15 years ago, the Luce family and their 14 employees have seen big, positive changes in the boating industry. The biggest change, Dave Luce said, is in the technology. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Going to 4-stroke technology is the biggest (change). And as they moved into the more computerized technology, these boats are much more maintenance free, more reliable and powerful,â&#x20AC;? Luce said. TNT customers typically range from â&#x20AC;&#x153;the sport guy to the older couple with the pontoons that are so stable.â&#x20AC;? He said the newer pontoon boats â&#x20AC;&#x153;have become a big area in the marine market. They are powerful enough that you can ski with them, too. We sell as many pontoons as any boat we carry.â&#x20AC;? He credits their success to the technology and their certified Yamaha technicians for all-brand repairs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our stability in the marketplace is due to our reliable service and we are keeping customers safe on the water,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Bottled/ Specialty Water Yellowstone Ice & Water 1718 4th Ave. N. A long-time business with new ownership, Yellowstone Ice & Water is making positive changes. The business that has been operat-

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ing for 20 years, and is now owned by Scott Chesarek, who explained that the location is the same, but new upgrades will not end with their upgraded exterior paint and remodeled sales/office areas. He purchased the company in December with Jason Kummerfeldt and John Gulde as an investor. They will continue selling ice and water from 4th Avenue North, in bottles of 5 gallons, 2.5 gallons and spring water from a Red Lodge location. They also have Reverse Osmosis and distilled water in smaller containers. They will also continue year-round residential and commercial water deliveries, and providing mobile ice trailers for events. They intend an upgrade of equipment in an area at the rear of their plant. “It takes very specialized equipment (to bottle, bag and deliver) products for residential and commercial customers,” Chesarek said. “It’s great to supply people with great drinking water.”

Plouffe is thrilled to be her own boss while offering a unique and special service to area women. “I have always had a passion for customer service, weddings and fashion,” she said. “This boutique allowed me to do everything I love and help women find the most important dress they will ever wear.” Truly a bridal boutique, the inventory and experience at Belle en Blanc is second to none. Appointments are strongly recommended so staff can better serve you in creating that special feeling you have been dreaming of your entire life. With regard to dress trends, this season we can expect to see gowns with dramatic backs, non-traditional colors, bohemian styles and layered skirts, Plouffe said. “Keep an eye out for convertible twoin-one gowns,” she added. Plouffe said she feels honored to be recognized as the best bridal store in Billings. “I feel blessed to have helped hundreds of brides since opening and have also gained friends throughout the process,” she said. “There is no better feeling.”

cars, as well. “Sedans, like the Malibu or Impala. We have a great selection. In the Chevy lineup, they cover all the bases. We still have our Corvettes and other sports cars, too,” Menholt said. He is certain that his sales staff knows what they sell and are treating customers well. “I am a firm believer in training. I’ve been here 29 years and the No.1 thing is people. I am a strong believer in making a work environment where it’s a pleasure to come to work. Happy employees make for happy customers,” he added. “We don’t want to sell you a car, we want to help you buy a car.”

customer relationships, he said. “We want to make sure the cars are right for the people and stay right. …There is a real high level of personal care. We service everything we sell,” McCormick said.

Carpet Cleaner Brice’s Masterclean 3287 Banff Ave.

When it comes to stains and spills, Brice Cady has seen it all. As owner of Brice’s Masterclean, Cady has been cleaning carpets and mitigating flooring flood damage for 12 years. And although his Readers’ Choice win is for carpet cleaning, Cady’s suite of services extends to cleaning fabric, leather, upholstery, tile and grout. Dana Motors “We enjoy helping our customers keep a clean and healthy home and offer free on2046 Grand Ave. site estimates,” Cady said. Cady has owned Brice’s Masterclean Del McCormick has been the owner of Belle en Blanc for 12 years but has 24 years of experience Dana Motors for six years, though he has 114 N. Broadway under his belt in the floor cleaning industry. worked there for 15 years. And not much During that time, he’s noticed an evolution in has changed for customers and staff, he the types of cleaning agents. said. Dana enjoys a 60 to 70 percent rate of Beautiful in white. “We use products that are safe and repeat buyers. That is the sentiment behind the biodegradable,” Cady said. “Today’s carpets “People really like the procedure here. name of downtown Billings’ premiere stay cleaner much longer.” It is straight forward dealing with the same bridal boutique, Belle en Blanc. Offering Denny Menholt Chevrolet Depending on wear and material type, people,” McCormick said. a unique and special shopping experi3000 King Ave. W. Cady recommends having your carpets What keeps the customers coming to ence for brides-to-be and their wedding cleaned every six months to two years. them? McCormick said, “Number one. It’s party, Belle en Blanc offers bridal gowns, “Everything we do upholds the warranty the brands that we sell. The buyers are bridesmaid dresses, accessories and “What has put us where we are at in the on the carpet,” Cady said. people who are more passionate about cars alterations—all in one location. business of selling cars is having a huge To his loyal clients who’ve supported him Still a relatively new business in Billinventory. People don’t order cars anymore. in the European Luxury segment. That market segment includes Mercedes Benz, BMW, through the years, Cady would like to extend ings, Belle en Blanc was conceptualized in They want to come in and drive away. And, 2013 when owner Taryn Plouffe was wed- we are aggressive in our pricing,” said Denny Land Rover, Jaguar, Porsche and Japanese his heartfelt thanks. “Thank you for your repeat business and luxury cars like Lexus and Infinity. Add to ding shopping with her sister and yearned Menholt. “The Chevrolet brand’s biggest that (product range) our service and parts, referrals,” Cady said. “Also, thanks to my for a boutique-style setting offering that seller is full-size pickups, followed by a vafantastic crew of technicians – it’s truly a “big-city” feel without extensive travel and riety of SUVs. In the Montana marketplace, that sets us apart.” team effort.” Everything Dana Motors sells is sold by inflated prices. people are truck people and always will be.” either McCormick or Mark Seitz. With only In 2014, Belle en Blanc was born, and He said he has has a full inventory of two salesmen, it is common to build strong

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Children’s Consignment Store Precious Seconds and Moms 2-B 1005 24th St. W. #5 Expectant moms and kids grow – their clothes don’t. That’s why Moms 2-B & Precious Seconds is the smart way to shop. For the sixth year in a row, Precious Seconds and Moms 2-B has taken home the award because readers recognize the value in having a store available for buying and trading clean, quality and current maternity and children fashions, baby gear and furniture. Owner Dawn Ness came up with slogan 24 years ago and has been working with cribs, bassinets, strollers, high chairs, nursing accessories and other mother and baby items since. “Our customers love that they can bring in their outgrown fashions and gear to a tried and true business to trade up for the next stage without the internet and wasted time meeting strangers,” Ness said. “No one is a stranger at Moms 2-B & Precious Seconds, and your merchandise is processed quickly.”

Recently the store did a remodeling out of necessity. It streamlined its merchandising, allowing for carrying more merchandise and lower prices. “It’s smart to shop consignment stores, especially for growing children,” Ness said. “Our customers love bringing in their barelyused, outgrown items and trading up.”

Children’s Photo Studio Jana Graham Photography 2301 Montana Ave. #201 Emotion is elusive. But photographer Jana Graham artfully captures it between smiles, snaps and clicks of her camera. “My favorite part of what I do is forming meaningful, personal connections with my clients,” Graham said. “It’s so fulfilling and rewarding to know that they allowed themselves to feel vulnerable in front of the camera—that they shared how they truly are as they interact with their loved ones. That is magical.” Graham, who has been in business in Billings for 12 years, offers a “boutique photographic experience” in that she customizes each session to the preferences and personal-

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ity of each client. Graham’s kind and tender touch makes her a perfect choice for newborn and children’s portraits, but she also specializes in commercial photography, graduation portraits, special occasion and wedding pictures. “Ultimately, my goal is to help them create a lasting piece of inspirational art that they can put up in their homes and feel good about every time they see it,” she said. “I want my photos to have that forever-quality.” Seeing the looks on her clients’ faces after a big reveal from a photo session is Jana’s favorite part. “I love seeing their faces light up, especially mothers looking at photos of their children,” Graham said. “It warms my heart and makes me feel like I’m a part of something bigger than myself.” Graham thanks her loyal customers—many of them repeat clients who’ve been photographed in various phases of their lives—for her Readers’ Choice win. “Thank you so much—I feel blessed to have worked with every one of you,” she said. “It’s an honor.”

Clothing Boutique The Banyan Tree 529 24th St. W. As owners of The Banyan Tree, a welcoming clothing boutique for all women, James and Jana Pennington wanted to offer fun, fashion forward clothing at an affordable price. After their first 1.5 years in business, they see their success when three generations of females repeatedly visit their shop and find what they are looking for every visit. “We designed the store after what wasn’t available in Billings,” Jana Pennington said. “I wanted it to be family friendly. Mothers, daughters, grandmothers will each be able to find something (here).” Comfortable seating at the four generously-sized fitting rooms brings ladies together for a casual day of shopping. She said The Banyan Tree offers a complete shopping experience, with jewelry, shoes and accessories to complement all clothing; necklace and earring sets average $9.99. They also offer a variety of “Montana” themed merchandise, as well. We are “an affordable, but unique” shop, she added.

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Clothing Store—Men’s Desmonds Store for Men 2819 2nd Ave. N.

said. “We’re less like a staff and more like a big family.” Several of the same employees have been at Apricot Lane since its opening five years ago, and the team strives to accentuate the best features of each customer. “Our favorite feedback from customers is when we hear ‘I would have never tried that on by myself, but I love it,’” Dowler said. Dispelling the notion that only women in their 20s or 30s can shop at Apricot Lane, Dowler said she carries inventory for all ages, sizes and budgets. “We carry shirts that are $19 to dresses that are $250,” she said. “We’ve definitely got something for everyone.”

Desmond’s Store for Men stocks a full offering of current styles in men’s wear, even though the look constantly evolves, said store manager Nick Blake. “We’ve adapted to those changes that always happen in clothing. Currently, we’re in a trend of three different fits in men’s clothing – traditional, modern and slim,” Blake said. When a customer doesn’t know the right fit for him, Desmond’s saves the day with its 26 years of experience, extensive inventory and a custom tailor. “We educate,” Blake said. “A customer may find something he likes, but may not be the best for him. I have those different Rimrock Computer Company fits in stock so he can try it, see how it feels.” 2320 Zoo Dr. When a customer choice is made, Desmond’s can tailor an item for an exact fit. Many younger customers who have A dropped tablet or crashed hard drive may bring you only bought items off the rack their entire lives are finding the to the storefront at Rimrock Computer Company, winner benefits of using a tailor. of the Readers’ Choice for “Best Computer Repair Shop” Blake said many young men come in for today’s quasicasual look that favors a sports coat with slacks or denim, and for six years in a row. “There’s a lot of really good technology firms in many men choose just a nice shirt with no tie. the area, and when you add in the ‘Box Stores,’ it’s an incredible honor to be singled out six years in a row as a Reader’s Choice winner,” said Aaron Dantic, who with his wife, Lindsey, operate the 17- year-old business. Located just south of the Zoo Exit, Rimrock Computer Company specializes in all device service and sales, Apricot Lane Boutique from computers to tablets, data recovery, networking

Computer Repair Shop

Clothing Store – Women’s 1603 Grand Ave. Ste. 100

In the era of big box stores and bargain bin shopping, one thing gets lost in the experience—a personalized touch and customer care. “At Apricot Lane, it’s less about the clothes and more about the shopping experience,” said owner Michelle Dowler. “We personally get to know each of our customers and style them so they leave feeling even better about themselves.” This boutique-style shopping experience is customercentric. “I always tell my staff that we’re not order takers,” Dowler said. “At Apricot Lane, we offer style and pairing suggestions that the customer might not have ever considered.” Dowler credits her talented, personable staff with the boutique’s continued success. “I have a great core group of people working here,” Dowler

Thank Yo You

“ThankYou” Billings! We appreciate your support over the past 22 years.

from all of us at

Yesteryears Y ste Antiques

for voting us Best Antique Store! More Vendors • More to See Colleen Rooke - Proprietor

256-3567 • 102 N. 29th St. • Billings, MT 59101

533 S. 24TH ST. W.

406-656-6320

Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

and more. Working in a quickly-evolving technical world, the Rimrock team is constantly handling new and unique requests. “One day we’re making your iTunes stream through your television, the next we are configuring 20 computers to share data and printers,” Dantic said. “And in between, you’ll find us removing malware, the source of those pesky ‘popups,’ from a laptop or installing a new family computer.” Dantic says the key to Rimrock’s success has been excellent customer service, fair pricing and having a staff of fun, professional technicians. “When you call, you’ll get a live voice. When you visit, it’s a warm welcome. We’ll stay open late or make a weekend appointment if necessary to ensure that our customers get the best service at an affordable price,” Dantic said. As a family-run shop, Dantic and his wife Lindsey want to let their customers know how much they appreciate them and their continued business.

Schieno says she has a loyal following of regular customers, but is always excited to see new faces walk through the door. Schieno also wants to extend a heartfelt thanks to her staff.

Cowboy/ Cowgirl Boots Al’s Bootery and Repair Shop 1820 1st Ave. N.

Though Al’s Bootery & Repair Shop has been open for 70 years, Jim Jussila and his wife, Dee Dee, have owned it for 24 years and have seen how boots change with the times. All in a positive way, said Jim Jussila. “Al’s is a long established business. We are unique in offering full-service repair, and selling most anything with leather,” Jim Jussila said. The family-owned business has always offered Western boots, work boots, moccasins, slippers, hunting boots, purses, belts, wallets, vests and top-name wool hats. “Plus we have great customer service and great employees,” said Jim Jussila. “We sell footwear for everybody – men, Clothes Minded women and children.” 1343 Central Ave. That hasn’t changed, but styles have, he said. “Traditionally, people wanted a boot Style and savings collide at 1343 Central with a cowboy heel and cowboy toe. Now Ave. it’s gone to a squarer toe with a flatter Open for six years, Clothes Minded offers pre-owned-used children’s clothing (2T and heel,” he said. Customers still come to Al’s for work up), junior’s fashion, women’s and women’s boots. plus styles and men’s. You’ll be sure to find “We have the top three brands of work just the piece you were looking for. Owner boots and the largest selection of safetyTana Schieno takes donations and clothes toe boots in Montana. That has grown on consignment, as long as they are seatremendously,” he said, adding that his sonal, in style and in great shape. shop repairs all types of boots and shoes.

Consignment/ Used Clothing Store

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216 N. 14th Street (406) 252-0503

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Custom Framing Store

care, that is customized for each person. “ Mitchell said her staff of five is “well trained and passionate. What our customers love the most is that everything here is customized for them. Everybody feels special when they come in the door. Time is a luxury, and we want them to have one-onone attention.”

3D imaging, guided implant surgery, lasers, implant dentures, wisdom tooth removal, root canal therapy, sedation dentistry, pediatric dentistry, sleep apnea, orthodontics, Invisalign, The Frame Hut & Gallery veneers, Zoom Whitening, cosmetic crowns and cosmetic 1430 Grand Ave. dentures to name just a few. “Basically we do it all from cleanings to implants to orthodontics to kid visits,” Brewer said. Celebrating its 50th year, The Frame Hut & Gallery is a oneAs part of their ongoing effort to meet the communities’ stop shop for your home and office. Store owner Helen Tolliver dental needs, Brewer Dental Center also provides a memberis proud to offer custom framing, regional artwork and a suite ship opportunity in their Advantage Plan for individuals who of other home décor options to her customers. Brewer Dental Center don’t have dental insurance. This is one more way Brewer “Our mantra is ‘Bring It, Frame It, Love It!’ We love bringDental is filling in the gaps when it comes to access to care and ing people smiles and having a hand in helping customers 2900 Central Ave., Buildings #1 & #2 affordability. For an annual fee, patients can enroll in the plan, showcase something they treasure. It is Frame Hut’s customerBrewer Dental Heights potentially saving thousands of dollars in dental care. centric approach to sales that has allowed it to stand the test of “For example, the regular price of an adult cleaning is $109, time. Our talented designers engage our customers by asking 710 Main St. if the patient is a member of the Brewer Dental Advantage Plan questions like ‘Tell us about your piece’ and ‘Where do you plan the cost is just $74,” Brewer explained. Savings can quickly add to display it?’” Tolliver said. “Answers to these questions help “Our philosophy has always been about giving patients up, as every dental procedure is reduced between 10 and 50 gently guide the design process.” what they want when they want it,” said Dr. Kevin Brewer. For percent with no annual cap. And while the Frame Hut specializes in custom framing, In addition to providing the highest quality dental care, it’s much more than the name conveys—it’s an art gallery and the doctors and staff at Brewer Dental Center, that means providing comprehensive dental care that’s convenient, comfort- Brewer Dental Center has always believed in giving back to the unique home décor store. able and affordable. community. Each year Brewer Dental sponsors more than 50 “Art is uplifting and food for the soul,” Tolliver said. “It’s With offices on Billings’ West End and in the Heights, pasporting teams, visits elementary schools, provides Free Smile wonderful to have the opportunity to work with so many gifted tients have easy access to quality dental care. With hours from Makeovers, donates to charitable organizations, and puts on local artists.” 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday and Saturday coverage their favorite event in February — Dentistry From The Heart. More than anything, Tolliver and the staff at The Frame from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., they have rewritten the book on conve“It’s a national program, and we’re the nation’s largest Hut & Gallery would like to extend their thanks and gratitude nience. On top of that, same-day appointments, whole family single provider for Dentistry From The Heart in terms of dollars toward their customers. donated and the number of patients cared for,” Dr. Brewer said. “Thank you for trusting us and for choosing us. We are here hygiene visits, sedation dentistry and in-house orthodontic and pediatric specialists mean that it’s all about you, and your This year Brewer Dental served 421 patients and donated more to serve you,” Tolliver said. family. than $150,000 in free dental care bringing their 11th anniverThe doctors on staff are trained in all the latest dental sary total to 3,364 patients treated and more than $1.1 million technologies and procedures, including digital radiographs, in donated dentistry.

Dental Practice

Day Spa Service Central Wellness 1010 Central Ave. Suite 2

Thank You For Your Support And Your Vote! E

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2016 READERS’ CHOICE

“The Best Drugstore in Billings”

WINNER B

OF BILLI

Serving Billings for over 57 years

406.869.0123 • 2043 Grand Ave., Billings, MT www.jurospharmacy.com

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A day away from daily annoyances is what the co-owners of Central Wellness offer clients. “People come here for the opportunity to clear their minds and put the world aside; it’s having a moment to themselves,” said Ali Mitchell, who co-owns Central Wellness with her mother Janine Griffin. The day spa has been open for four years, providing massages, facial, manicures, pedicures, body treatments and chemical peels. “Massage is our most popular offering,” Mitchell said. “And, our facials are done by a master aesthetician well-versed in skin

2016 READERS’ CHOICE

We are proud to be named the 2016 Reader’s Choice for Best Ski Mountain.

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Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

Drugstore

In addition to winning another Readers’ Choice award, Valet Today Cleaners has given their customers new stores, more services and better locations — in other words more convenience. Juro’s Pharmacy Health & Wellness The new changes haven’t just been aimed at making the 2043 Grand Ave. experience better for those needing laundry service, dry cleaning, alterations or specialty work, it’s also meant the service is faster. Now, at all three locations, Valet Today offers same-day service. Knowing how to keep people healthy and independent at Valet Today Cleaners started dry cleaning services 60 years home is what Juro’s Pharmacy Health and Wellness is all about. ago. But, it’s changed since then to expand the services and As a family-owned local business for more than 57 years, Juro’s prides itself in providing the very best customer service update its products. It offers a line of environmentally-friendly cleaning products for its services. and treating everyone who walks through their doors as a Two new locations have opened in the past year at 524 Liberty neighbor. Juro’s serves the Billings and surrounding community with St., and 2434 Grand Avenue. Co-owner Stacey Frank, along with her husband, Jason, planned the new stores and locations for a their full-service pharmacy as well as compounded medications for those who need something less traditional. Their com- decade. They bought the business in 2006 and had a 10-year lease on the locations. That’s when they started planning for new stores, plete line of pharmaceutical grade vitamins and supplements with better access for customers. are superior in quality known for their absorption, freshness Each of the new stores has drive-up access and 24-hour dropand purity. Its knowledgeable staff can help customers with off boxes. In addition to the new stores and the same-day service, a regimen. All customers have to do is ask for a free vitamin Valet Today has also expanded to include 24-hour drop-off and consultation with one of its pharmacists. delivery in Red Lodge at the Wellness Approach Center. Their Home Respiratory Center is available to assist paAll clothing items are now processed in the new, state-of-thetients with state of the art CPAP equipment and CPAP supplies art plant then shuttled back to each individual store. for sleep therapy. Juro’s home medical equipment and home “Processing items in one location helps us to better maintain access areas keep people living at home independently with medical supplies (diapers, compression stockings, catheters, quality control,” Frank said. “It’s great to have everything under one roof.” nutritionals), medical equipment to rent or own (wheelchairs, On any given day, Frank and his staff presses around 800 hospital beds, scooters) and products that allow people to stay in their home as they age (stair and van lifts, ramps, bathroom shirts and processes around 500 pieces of dry cleaning. In addition to the dry cleaning, Valet Today locations are busy safety equipment, lift chairs, walk-in bath tubs, accessible with their annual coat and shoe drive in time for the cold winter showers and more). Their highly-trained and personalized staff include pharma- months and holidays. Before Nov. 15, people with “gently used” or new shoes or coats can drop them off to be donated. Valet Today cists, pharmacy technicians, respiratory therapists, respiraCleaners then cleans the coats and gives them to Family Services tory technicians, homecare consultants, certified mechanics of Billings, Community Hope in Laurel and several other charities and contractors; they also offer to bill most insurance. throughout the region. The annual drive has resulted in more than As a small, locally-owned business, Juro’s is here to serve 5,000 donations per year. our community and prides itself on knowing most of their customers first and last names and are eager to assist both patients and their caregivers. At Juro’s, you’re a neighbor, not a number.

Fabric Store Bernina Sewing Center 1505 Rehberg Lane Suite A Whether it’s quilting a family heirloom or sewing flower girl dresses, the staff at Bernina Sewing Center is eager to assist and answer any creative questions you may have. Even though it’s under new ownership, the staff and new

Electrical Contractor

Dry Cleaners Valet Today Cleaners 524 Liberty St. 2434 Grand Ave. 2474 Enterprise Ave.

Whether it’s checking your wiring, fixing switches, installing smoke detectors or new data ports and phone lines, Action Electric has you covered. Owners Brian Amestoy and Greg Moos said that the company’s emphasis on professionalism and quality work is responsible for much of their success. “We have a dedicated and talented crew—most of which have been with us for quite a long time,” they said. Action Electric has a large staff and the right experts for your commercial and residential projects. The staff includes trained and licensed journeymen, and service technicians who are up to date with the new codes. Action Electric’s strong reputation for quality and integrity has been built over the years through the efforts of an incredible team. The owners of Action Electric extend their appreciation to their loyal clients and encourage new customers to give them a try. They will work hard to earn your trust. Your safety is a number one priority to the team. Greg and Brian are ready to discuss your next project, call for your consultation.

Action Electric 1010 Central Ave. In business since 1985, Action Electric specializes in keeping your home running safely.

For voting for us and shopping with us!

Thank You BILLInGS FoR VoTInG ME BEST MaSSaGE ThERaPIST! E

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OF BILLI

Teresa Thormahlen, LMT

406-672-5355

3307 Grand Ave. Ste 101 Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

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Body Wise Massage & Wellness

Lin ger ie

2016 READERS’ CHOICE

WINNER

2016 READERS’ CHOICE

WINNER B

OF BILLI

655-9400 • 1400 Broadwater Ave.

Pella Windows & Doors 2520 Grand Ave Billings, MT 406-656-1516 800-727-2553 www.pellaMT.com

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owner Michelle Luce take pride in offering a wide variety of quality fabrics and enjoys collaborating with customers. Bernina Sewing Center has been in business since 1983, and the store provides excellent customer service and offers quality fabric that’s often hard to find elsewhere.

Farm Ranch Store Shipton’s Big R In Montana: 216 N 14th St., Billings 2600 Gabel Rd., Billings 1908 Main St., Billings In Wyoming: 2049 Sugarland Dr., Sheridan

(across the street from Big R East) and is staffed with knowledgeable certified technicians. Best of all, those technicians will get you serviced and repaired within 10 days. Shipton’s Big R continues to be actively supporting community events. Shipton’s Big R hosted the Indian Relay Race Championships “Welcome Party” at Big R West. Shipton’s is also well known for sponsoring many rodeos and sporting goods events. For bacon lovers everywhere, Shipton’s Big R has become the exclusive outlet for BaconFest (Nov. 19th at MetraPark) tickets.

Flooring Store Rimrock Flooring 1440 Central Ave.

About to start its third year, Rimrock Flooring, Inc., will celebrate its January anniversary with a lot to be proud of. “We have a good following,” said Mark Woten, an owner Shipton’s Big R has been in business almost 70 years and with the addition of the fourth store in Billings Heights last year, of the store that is found in a 5,000-sqaure-foot building that serves as showroom and warehouse, and has a kids’ play area it’s ready for the next century of business. to keep shopping families happy. While Shipton’s Big R’s main focus is farmers and ranchIndependently owned and operated, Rimrock Flooring rouers, it’s a store big enough for everyone else, including the tinely boasts of the most Facebook likes for Billings-area flooroutdoorsman, workers and pet owners. Shipton’s Big R has ing stores, said Woten, who has been in the flooring industry built its business on customer service, everyday low prices, for 12 years. He has seen trends change and said Luxury Vinyl convenient hours and locations, and quality brands. Plank flooring is a game changer. Any one of the four store locations has departments “Everybody wants it. It’s easy to install, easy to maintain,” stocked full of quality products from brands you’ll recognize: • Farm and Ranch equipment from Tarter, Powder River, Woten said. In January, he will attend the Las Vegas flooring products and Priefert trade show and return with current technology to his store, • Vortex Optics and Ruger firearms for the avid huntwhich has 60 ceramic and porcelain tile samples to show, ers and sportsmen (Montana and Wyoming’s largest along with hardwood, area rugs and more. Their entire showselection of new firearms) • Quality apparel and workwear from Wrangler, Ariat and room floor is of engineered hardwood. But, Woten admits their showroom has one problem. Carhartt “We’ve already outgrown it. We’re looking for an offsite ware• Western and work footwear from Keen Utility, Justin house or bigger building – already after two years.” Boots, Tony Lama and Timberland Pro • Montana and Wyoming’s largest selection of Montana Silversmiths jewelry • A full line of Nutrena livestock feed • Blue Buffalo, Science Diet, Taste of the Wild and an extenGainan’s sive pet supplies department for dedicated pet owners In addition to those products, Shipton’s Big R carries a full 502 N. 30th St. line of Husqvarna and Honda Power equipment. At Shipton’s 810 Bench Blvd. Big R, they service what they sell. The Shipton’s Big R Power Equipment Service Center is located at 301 N. 14th street 1211 24th St. W.

For three generations, the Gainan family and valued employees have provided unique, high-quality floral bouquets, gifts, home decor and nursery products to Billings shoppers. Yet, from day one, their focus has been on customer service and 100 percent customer satisfaction. Gainan’s unique floral creations are perfect for weddings, sympathy, birthdays, anniversaries, special occasions or just to say “I’m thinking about you and want to brighten your day.” The staff’s dedication to service shines through the moment customers walk through the door and are enveloped with the delicious fragrances of the season. “We work hard to create a unique, inspiring shopping experience,” says president Jim Gainan, noting that several people wander about the store or visit the greenhouse during their lunch hours, sometimes just as a way to relax or get away. This is just one of the many ways Gainan’s customers become their friends. Celebrating 65 years in business, Gainan and his team are proud to offer the same exemplary quality and customer service provided by Jim’s grandparents six decades ago. “Customers keep us going,” Gainan said. “It’s a joy to be a part of their lives throughout all the different occasions.” Gainan also reinforces the notion that it’s OK and encouraged to pick up a bouquet for yourself. “Flowers are power-packed little joy makers,” Gainan said. “It’s been scientifically proven that flowers enhance mood, so treat yourself to a fragrant bouquet.”

Florist

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252-2536 Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

‌Gift Shop

Grocery Store

The Joy of Living 1528 24th St. W.

Albertsons 6 Billings locations

In the business of selling gifts for nearly seven years at The Joy of Living, owner Kris Carpenter has learned “gifts are as much fun to give as they are to receive.” Carpenter has owned the Sanctuary Spa & Salon in the same West End location for 18 years and started the gift segment when she realized most women are busy. When too busy, women may not have adequate time to find the perfect card, jewelry or unique clothing for birthdays or other celebrations. The Joy of Living seeks to change that by bringing in items from products shows in New York, Las Vegas and Los Angeles. “We have a reputation for great, fun gifts. And, we giftwrap for free. We like to bring in fun things than make you laugh and inspire you,” Carpenter said. Carpenter has been so inspired by gifts that she will soon open a second location, downtown at 102 N. Broadway. “I’m a Billings girl. I’ve always wanted to have a presence there. I love downtown,” Carpenter said.

Albertson’s District Manager Chuck Cremer has been at his job since 2000 and has seen his group of stores win many awards, including this Readers’ Choice honor. Cremer said the several hundred Albertson’s employees, from the West End to the Heights, deserve credit for the honor. “I really believe it’s our people. I think we have the best associates in Billings,” Cremer said, adding that his praise extends to the entire team of roughly 500 employees in Billings. Those associates work at these Albertson’s locations: 3137 Grand Ave.; 2334 Central Ave.; 611 N. 27th St.; 511 Central Ave.; 1212 Grand Ave.; and, 70 Main St., Billings Heights. “Customers can count on fresh, clean, healthy foods,” Cremer added. He knows that more and more customers ask about organic foods, and his associates can respond with great products in all key areas: produce, meat, bakery, service deli and convenience foods. One area receiving national attention, and becoming a big draw at the Billings

Albertsons is the rising interest in organic foods, Cremer said. “That is a growing category. …People want to know where their food comes from,” Cremer said.

Hair SALON Sanctuary Spa & Salon 1504 N. 24th St. W. Kris Carpenter has owned and operated Sanctuary Spa & Salon for 18 years and believes that without constant learning, her staff of seven stylists are not doing the best job they can. “All our training has really amped up the expectations of our guests. I don’t think people realize what you need to be current… It’s a lot of work to keep a team focused, but they are committed to one another and that is a big reason for this recognition (as Best Salon),” Carpenter said. “We are heavy on education,” Carpenter stressed. Two Sanctuary stylists just went to New York for training on cutting techniques; and, as an Aveda salon and spa, they received intense multi-day training for a new color system from that company.

“It is the specialized training that does ensure the level of service we give our guests. … It allows us to work together to make sure our guests are happy,” Carpenter said, “Through collaboration and cross training, (stylists) help each other grow.”

Health Food Store Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage 304 24th St. W. Open for four years in Billings, Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage strives to stock the healthiest products to enhance the health of all customers. Proving that customers caught on, the store has been named by Readers’ Choice as Best Health Food Store. “I believe, largely, it’s because we’ve been around for 61 years dealing with organic, and non-genetically-modified items, we have the experience,” said David Mondovi, store manager. “What also sets us apart is that we have a licensed nutritionist on staff.” Their nutritionist hosts eight to ten classes a month about eating clean and

Thank you for voting us “Best Wedding ding Venue”

4 Years in a Row!!

406.656.7273 • www.billingsdepot.org Photo by Fran Ze Photography Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

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leading a healthier lifestyle, he added. Staff learns even more than customers. “We routinely hold monthly, bi-monthly and quarterly training so our staff is continuing to update their knowledge,” Mondovi said. They are also educated about vitamins, which take up about 50 percent of the store’s shelf space, Mondovi said. Much information comes from local suppliers, he added. “We work with the Montana Growers Association, a co-op, which gives us an opportunity to always have some local products,” Mondovi said. “They always try to have some Montana beef, produce, dairy and coffee.”

Home CENTER/ Building Center Billings Hardware 3175 Grand Ave. 906 Broadwater Ave.

They may sell hardware, but it is their soft touch and personalized attention to detail that sets TJ Comstock, owner of Billings Hardware, and his team apart. Specializing in home improvement, Billings Hardware carries full-service hardware, plumbing, electrical, fasteners, tools and paint. What’s more, the trained, knowledgeable staff at Billings Hardware can answer your questions, and make sure you have everything you need for your building project. “Our employees have a wide range of experience and know-how,” said Comstock. Rehder Balance and Hearing The store also carries unique items that are hard-to-find in a box store. 1101 N. 27th St. They also carry a wide variety of top-name brands, including Makita, Stihl and Husqvarna. As doctor of audiology, Doug Rehder has “The largest thing that sets us apart is our been helping people of all generations in the convenient, smaller store format,” Comstock area with hearing loss and balance disorders. said. “We make it easy to get in, find what you Rehder and his staff strive to ensure patient need, have your questions answered and get care is highly personalized at his downtown back to your project.” clinic. At the end of the day, Comstock credits “It’s the way we treat people using individu- Billings Hardware’s dedicated employees and alized treatment plans. It’s not that everyone loyal customers who’ve made the store such a gets the same hearing aid and treatment. We success. treat for each individual’s hearing lifestyle “Thank you for giving us your business,” while helping people maximize their hearing. he said. “It’s an honor to have won Readers’ The hearing aid is never going to bring back a Choice in two categories. We greatly apprecipatient’s hearing, but can restore normal hear- ate your support. And to new customers— ing as much as humanly possible,” Rehder come give us a try and let us help you.” said. “It works thanks to enhanced technology,” Rehder said. “It has changed tremendously since I started 37 years ago.” Dizziness and imbalance issues are also addressed by Rehder, in patients of all ages, Ashley Furniture HomeStore whether the problem arises from the inner ear 2914 Millennium Circle or central nervous system.

Hearing Aid PROVIDER

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We ALL VOT E D B E ST F LO R I ST 2 0 1 6

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Montana HotSpring Spas 2217 Grand Ave.

Home Health care Service

2016 READERS’ CHOICE E

Hot Tub/ Spa Center

Since the Billings Gazette’s Readers’ Choice Award launched in 2000, only two businesses have won the same category every single year. Montana HotSpring Spas is one of those businesses. For 17 straight years, they have been named the best hot tub and spa center by readers. As owner Scott Prociv said, “We’re in hot Billings Clinic Home Oxygen & water and we love it.” Yet, in those 17 years, hot tubs have gone Medical Equipment Services from being a luxury item to an essential part of 801 N. 27th St. health. Prociv said his business isn’t about selling items, it’s about helping customers have a Dave Bunkers knows that patient care is more healthy, enjoyable life. changing for all healthcare providers. In Latin, the word “spa” is defined as health “The need (for home health services) is pretty big, and it continues to grow. The more we try to by water. Scott Prociv, owner of Montana HotSpring keep patients in the home, it will continue to grow, Spas, champions this mindset, recognizing said Bunkers, executive director of the Critical

WINNER B

Care Division at the Billings Clinic. “When patients need our durable medical equipment or oxygen services, the provider used is the patient’s choice,” Bunkers said. “It starts with their primary care doctor. Then, it is the patient’s choice, just like hospital choice. For us it’s an honor we were chosen (for this award) because it really is their choice.” In addition to their home oxygen service, Billings Clinic also stocks and delivers all types of durable medical equipment. Common items are walkers, crutches, canes and orthopedic supplies. However, their list includes wheelchairs, canes, bath and toilet aids, CPAP, bed accessories, hospital beds, oxygen and pulmonary supplies. Of course, this could change if necessary. “We are pretty free to provide whatever the public demands. We will tailor our services to the need of our community,” Bunkers said. Patient surveys determine needs.

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For a decade now, the readers of The Billings Gazette have looked to Ashley Furniture HomeStore to find the latest trends and a quality of service that never goes out of style. General manager Travis Brownell said it is because of this commitment to customers that Ashley has been voted “Best Home Furnishing Store” for the 10th consecutive year. This year brought new, exciting changes to Ashley Furniture HomeStore, which has been a fixture in the Billings community since 1999 with high-quality furniture and home décor. Now under new ownership, the store has remodeled, re-carpeted, and completely re-accessorized. Ashley also now features an expanded mattress gallery carrying TempurPedic, Stearns & Foster, and Sealy brands. “Our new layout reflects the most exciting trends in home design and with our new everyday low pricing, you always get a great deal with us,” Brownell said. “What won’t change is our philosophy that the customer comes first, so you can still expect the same great service.” Brownell prides his team on taking care of each customer before and after the sale. His experienced and knowledgeable staff strives to answer every question while providing selection and savings. “We thank readers for supporting our local business and voting us No.1 for 10 years in a row. They remain our top priority and their loyalty to us pushes our business to succeed,” Brownell said.

Voted #1 Pet Store

6 years in a row!

2342 Grand Avenue 656-6282

From joyous occasions to solemn remembrances, we are honored to be your florist of choice. Thank you, Billings! Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

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Huge Breakfasts to Custom Grilled Angus Steaks • Cocktails • Montana Microbrews

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that a spa is less of a home improvement item and more of a personal improvement one. “Our motto is to ‘make every day better’,” he said, which is definitely achievable through the relaxing science of hydro-technology. Studies have shown that regular sauna use helps detoxify bodies, burn calories, increase circulation and decrease stress. As a professional, authorized dealer of HotSpring Spas and Finnleo Saunas, Montana HotSpring Spas specializes in their own analysis, delivery, customer care and installation. In 2012 the store underwent a major remodel to better serve their customers. Prociv credits his loyal, hard-working staff (who he actually dubs a “family of employees”) with much of the store’s success. It has been part of the Billings business landscape since it opened in 1977. He also wants to thank the Billings community and his following of loyal customers who’ve supported him through the years. “We’re very grateful to be able to serve you and sincerely appreciate your referrals and commitment to HotSpring Spas,” Prociv said.

Ink and Toner Provider Billings Ink & Toner 3202 Henesta Dr., Suite I

Selena Wang is in the business of serving customers and her community one ink or toner cartridge at a time. As owner of Billings Ink & Toner, Wang and her staff sell new and refilled printer cartridges, ink jet and laser cartridges. For 10 years, Wang oversaw a very similar ink business that operated under a franchise name. Now that her business has no corporate oversight, Wang said, “It’s more about our customers; it’s not just about owning a business. Serving our community is the bottom line.” Moving toward private ownership, Wang lost some business but sees about 80 percent of those customers coming back. “It really boils down to efficiency and saving people money. We take care of our customers the best we can.” Wang said. “We even repair some machines at no cost. And offer free delivery, same day, to businesses.” Wang has more plans for the future, with her seven employees. “We are going to volunteer more in our community at the zoo and Yellowstone Art Museum. Our work family—all our employees—feels the same way about volunteering,” Wang said.

Insurance Company

State Farm Insurance “We are excited that State Farm was again

voted best insurance company in the 2016 Reader’s Choice Awards,” said territory sales manager, Jamie Anderson. This recognition underscores the strong relationships that State Farm agents have with their policyholders. As the insurer of one in every five vehicles and homes throughout the area, State Farm is the insurer of choice, more than any other company. “We are committed to meeting the needs of our customers and helping protect them from the financial risks of everyday life,” added Anderson. “Thank you to our amazing customers for their vote of confidence in State Farm.”

has amassed a lifetime of expertise. That experience has earned him direct access to diamond dealers in Antwerp and to the best brands of jewelry and watches. “At Goldsmith Gallery, we carry a large variety of items – from brilliant diamonds to Swiss-made watches, Pandora to pearls,” Wickam said. In addition to retail sales, the store has in-house jewelers who can create stunning, custom-designed pieces or repair heirloom jewelry. “More young people want to create custom jewelry pieces,” Wickam noted. “They pick unique aspects of different bridal rings, and our in-house goldsmiths combine those elements into a one-of-a-kind piece.” Goldsmith Gallery While many people think custom jewelry is more expensive than stocked items, Wickam 903 Shiloh Crossing Blvd. said that isn’t the case. Scott Wickam is a stickler for quality. His “Recently, a couple celebrating their fifth passion for superior diamonds and fine jewelry anniversary came in to ask about creating a shines through in the exquisite array of pieces custom ring. They were pleasantly surprised displayed in Goldsmith Gallery’s beautiful to find the cost was very affordable,” Wickam 7,500-square-foot showroom. said. Not only is the jewelry stunning, the gallery Goldsmith’s large inventory means cusitself is a show-stopper. In fact, Goldsmith Gal- tomers can find that perfect piece at a perfect lery placed third in the nation for “America’s price. From a budget-friendly Pandora bead to Coolest Stores,” as published in Instore a 10-carat diamond, Goldsmith’s has a price magazine, a national publication for jewelry point for every customer. store owners. When it comes to diamonds, no one has Starting in the business at age 15, Wickam more expertise than Wickam. Bridal custom-

Jewelry Store

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Heights. One year later he added The Cabinet Center alongside that retail store. Both stores have since provided awardwinning kitchen design services using their expertise in new home construction and remodeling. Mostad has been in the flooring industry for 22 years. For cabinet expertise, he hired three cabinet designers – two with 20 years’ experience and another with an interior design degree. “We treat our cabinet customers like the flooring customers. We want to do the job right the first time,” he said. Explaining the changes, Mostad added, “This was to give us a higher level of customer service. When replacing flooring, people are usually redoing the entire kitchen. With new homes and remodels it’s a real benefit.” They also sell the high-demand solidsurface counter products like quartz and granite. Mostad said many of their kitchens now include backsplash bling – half inch tiles of copper, stainless steel or glass. “That’s something that says, ‘This is my kitchen,’” he said.

Bed Bath and Beyond 2821 King Ave. W.

Bed, Bath & Beyond goes so far beyond the norm for its ultra-complete array of kitchen supplies that it is now the Readers’ Choice for its offerings. “The kitchen is the heart of the home and we pride ourselves in offering top quality cookware, appliances and gadgets designed to make preparing and cooking all sorts of food easy and fun,” said Joe Smith, manager of Bed Bath & Beyond Billings. No, the kitchen is not just a room where people cook foods. They prepare meals for everyday quick bites and elaborate family and holiday celebrations. The importance of that room is what store associates keep in mind when offering items. “It’s great to be recognized by the community for our wide assortment of kitchen supplies and outstanding customer service. Our expert staff is always available to help customers find the best products available Cabinet Center at Carpet One to suit their specific needs,” Smith said. 505 S. 24th St. W. Small appliances, tools and gadgets can help with prep works, while the best cookFour years ago, Randy Mostad, owner of Carpet One Floor & Home of Billings, en- ware and bakeware get things ready on time. hanced his flooring business by opening The This national retailer also has all necessary Cabinet Center in his 24th Street West store. dinnerware and glassware—casual to formal fine china – to present any meal in the apIn 2015, with a proven business model, Mostad opened Flooring America in Billings propriate fashion.

Kitchen Cabinet Store

Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

Thank you Billings for voting us

Billings Gazette Readers’ Choice

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ers make up a large segment of Goldsmith’s business, and Wickam and his well-trained staff work hard to help people learn about diamonds – the cut, clarity, color and carat weight – and how to select a stone that perfectly fits their desire and budget. “This has been a huge year for diamonds,” Wickham noted, saying he recently returned from a buying trip to Antwerp and is planning to return again in November to buy more. By going directly to the source and taking advantage of weaker markets in Asia, Wickham said he is able to buy better than ever at the overseas diamond market. And Goldsmith’s selection of diamonds is second to none. “I hand-select every single stone,” he said. Wickam’s strong relationships with diamond cutters ensures that he purchases only the best stones, and that he can pass along superior pricing to his customers. While brilliant white diamonds remain the favorite for engagement and wedding rings, colored diamonds have grown in popularity. Pink, blue, yellow, green and even brown or “chocolate” diamonds have been fashioned into stunning necklaces, bracelets, earrings and more. Wickam was honored that voters named Goldsmith Gallery “Billings Best Jewelry Store” for the 15th year in a row. “My wife and I are eternally grateful to the Billings community who have supported our family-owned business and helped it flourish over the last 26 years,” said Wickam. “With a mission to consistently earn the trust of their clients by providing quality jewelry, affordable pricing, and personalized service, they are able to help their clients celebrate life’s precious moments. Receiving this award, year after year, signifies that we are devoted to achieving our mission and building client relationships for life. We realize that Billings consumers have an abundance of choices when selecting a jewelry store and we are so grateful that our community continues to shop local and choose us as the number one jeweler within our community.”

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Award Recipient

652-7727 • 2217 Grand Ave. • www.LoveTheTub.com E27

Lighting Center

take care of customers from start to finish. “We like to do the hard stuff,” Patterson said. One Source Lighting The staff is also continuously training and 100 24th St. W. #3 learning as the field of lighting switches from One Source Lighting doesn’t just sell bulbs incandescent to CFL to LED lights, as well as the technology for light controls gets more and light fixtures, it sells solutions. advanced. And that’s why its customers continue to “We can help a homeowner do more than vote it Billings’ best lighting center. just find a lightbulb or lamp, we also can help Owner Lauri Patterson said folks can find lightbulbs and light fixtures in many stores, but them with the placement of switches and what keeps customers walking back into hers other technology,” Patterson said. Since it opened in 2003, Patterson has is that she can help them find the right solution aimed to carry unique inventory customers to their lighting need, not just something that can’t find elsewhere in Billings. may or may not work. This is the eighth time One Source has One Source Lighting isn’t just the source for homeowners to brighten up their lives, it’s earned a Readers’ Choice Award during their 13 years in business. also a source for other businesses, contracPatterson would like to thank her dedicated tors and stores. It stocks more than 10,000 staff and loyal following of customers for their bulbs in its on-site warehouse, meaning that if continued support. you can’t find it elsewhere, chances are you’ll “Thank you for letting us continue to serve find it at One Source. and inspire you,” she said. Patterson specializes in helping customers find ways to update their homes, find a specialty bulb or design their dream home. The most common area that needs lighting A-Limo Limousine help is the kitchen. “We help customers find a way to add more 405 N. 12th St. or different light without having to rewire their entire house,” Patterson said. Cindy Reed specializes in facilitating joy. From design to electrical to installation, As owner of A-Limo Limousine, she has Patterson can help assemble a team that can been part of many marriage proposals, sur-

TLC Lingerie 1400 Broadwater Ave. Twenty years ago, Victoria Bartle and Linda Cetrone Levy formed the original team at TLC

thank you! For Choosing us

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Lingerie. The concept of “Come In and Have a Fit” was new. Today, it’s still Victoria and Linda, but there’s also Serena, Nona and Paige whose goal is to make the process of finding a bra that fits and is comfortable an enjoyable experience. “We want our customers to enjoy a properly fitting bra and get reasonable wear from it.” Bartle said. “A well-fitting bra lasts longer.” With band sizes 28 to 54 and cup sizes from AA to N, the options make it possible to fit nearly every woman. Bras, in stock, are both with underwire and no wire to serve the preferences of their customers. While most women tend to shop for comfort and function, TLC Lingerie also has variety in pretty and lacy. “Come in and have a fit” is quite literally what you do at TLC. The fitter listens and does her best to match a bra with the customer’s wishes. If you have an outfit for an occasion and need strapless or smoothing, Linda recommends you bring the garment with you. “That’s the best way to see what works in one-trip shopping,” Levy said. Women who have had mastectomies now need to go to the Breast Boutique at the Billings Clinic. But, if you’ve had a breast reduction or augmentation, you’re a new size and will find it a benefit to be helped by the fitters at TLC Lingerie. They have the experience to understand the change you’ve made and will help you find the bra in the new size that will work best for you. TLC offers a wide selection of swimsuits in

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men’s best clothing store!

M-F 9-5:30 • Sat. 10-5 | 2819 2nd ave. n. 245-4612 • 1-877-834-0732 www.bestmensstorebillings.com E28

Lingerie Shop

Limousine Service

prise birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties and weddings. “The smiles, that’s what I love best,” she said. “We’re often involved in our customers’ special occasions, and I take great pride in being able to share that.” Reed, who does much of the driving herself, has both car and SUV-style limos available by appointment for the convenience of her customers. “A lot of our business is airport shuttling. Set the time, and you can be assured that your ride will be there promptly,” she said. During the holiday season, consider contacting A-Limo for holiday light tours—made all the more special with a group of fun friends and a canister of hot cocoa. “We promise our customers the royal treatment and appreciate their confidence in our service,” she added. In business for more than 25 years, Reed encourages customers to post their limo ride photos to A-Limo’s Facebook page or visit alimolimousineco.com for rental information.

Thank You Billings For Voting

“Best Dental Practice” In 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 and now 2016!

(406) 656-6100 | www.BrewerDentalCenter.com Monday - Friday 7am - 7pm | Saturday 7am - 5pm Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

Mattress King 17th & Grand 24th & King Ave. (next to Applebees) 311 N 7th Ave., Bozeman No one knows the importance of getting a good night’s sleep better than Jay and Mary Hoffmann. As owners of Mattress King, the couple along with their courteous, well-trained staff, have been helping people find the right bed for more than 30 years. And as Jay points out, the business is about much more than selling mattresses. “We are absolutely committed to offering our guests the very best products and the highest level of customer service,” he said. That commitment is embedded in the company mission statement: To change people’s lives by helping them experience the best sleep possible and make a positive difference in their lives while serving them each step of the way. According to Jay, that’s not just a saying on a plaque. “Every team member memorizes the mission, and we talk about it every week during meetings,” he said. Walking into a showroom and seeing dozens of mattress sets can feel overwhelming for shoppers. And after people lay down on five or six different mattresses to test them, they become dulled to the experience. That’s just one reason Mattress King has invested in Bed Match System technology. “The Bed Match System uses a diagnostic mattress which takes more than 1000 calculations and measurements. Based on those calculations, we can narrow down the top four or five mat-

THANK YOU Billings for Voting us Best Sandwich 3 Years In A Row!

You Billin k n a g h T for voting u s s

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tresses for that particular guest,” Jay said. Using technology to find the best fit for an individual not only makes the process of selecting a mattress much easier, it also ensures a better night’s sleep. The process of finding the best mattress starts with excellent sleep consultants. Every potential team member undergoes a rigorous hiring process, which includes a background check and a series of interviews. “Having a very thorough hiring process is not new for us,” noted Jay. “We have followed this strict protocol for many, many years.” Mattress King has also set a gold standard for delivery service. “We call ahead and set a specific time for delivery. When our delivery staff arrives, they roll out a carpet and wear booties over their shoes to minimize tracking anything into the home. They also wear white gloves to set up your new mattress. When we’re done, we use a Swiffer duster or vacuum cleaner to tidy your floors before we leave,” said Jay. From helping guests find the perfect mattress to making deliveries and every step in between, the leaders and team at Mattress King deeply scrutinize every detail to ensure guests receive the highest level of service. “We carry the best brands at the best prices and give you a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee,” said Jay. “Why would anybody want to buy a bed anywhere else?”

sizes 4 to 32 all year long. There’s no “season” at TLC Lingerie! One piece, two piece, tankinis, mix and match with the choice of regular swim bottoms, shorts or a skirt—whatever you prefer. Also, always in stock, are swimsuits with pockets to hold a prosthesis or keep swim forms in place. If you’re pregnant or a nursing mom, TLC has the bras you need. From the early changes to delivery to going back to work, the right bra makes your life easier and the fitters at TLC will help you figure it out. TLC Lingerie keeps records for you. You can clip tags or wash your favorite bra until you can’t read the tag. It doesn’t matter. The staff can either find your favorite bra and show you a new one; or, if it’s no longer available, we’ll be able to show you what is closest with the features you liked best. Keeping records and performing a service has made TLC Lingerie a Readers’ Choice Winner since 2008.

2016 READERS’ CHOICE

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OF BILLI

Medical Spa Tallman Medical Spa 2294 Grant Rd. Botox injections, laser treatments and fillers for cosmetic enhancements; hair removal, body sculpting and contouring; massage therapy and reflexology. It is all at Tallman Medical Spa, which opened in 2005. “We are a medical spa, operating under a medical oversight. That is what sets us apart,” said Michelle Qualls, practice manager. “We operate under a licensed, board certified dermatologist, Dr. Phillip Tallman.” A physician’s assistant performs all injections, a licensed aesthetician provides facial and skin care, and a licensed cosmetologist works on hand and nail treatments. Massage therapists are also professionally trained and licensed. These professionals have a typical clientele of females, age 30 and older, yet Tallman does have a segment of male clientele. Qualls said people do see results after one treatment and often schedule repeat visits to maintain that positive outcome.

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Custom Repair, Inc. 40 Years in Business

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“You only have one skin. You want to take care of it,” said Qualls, who holds an MBA from the University of Montana.

Nail Salon Nail-issimo! 2215 Broadwater Ave. Teresa Spitzer is an accomplished nail technician with 26 years on the job, and for the past 20, she has also been a spa and salon owner, overseeing business functions, too. “It is so crazy in here,” she said, telling how busy she is each day. But, she said she centers on strong commitment to all people, customers and employees. “As salon owner I will say the clients are the heart of our business, and they know it,” she added. Open 20 years, Nail-issimo! provides a complete listing of salon and spa services. The menu begins with all hair services like color, cut, style and extensions; skin treatments like facials, microdermabrasion, waxing, lash extensions; massage; and, hand and feet treatments. “We do 4,000 pedicures a year,” Spitzer said. “It’s an awesome industry, and I work with amazing women. We call ourselves spa girls,” Spitzer said. “I feel we are pretty cutting edge.” Part of the reason why readers selected Nail-issimo! is because of the way the staff works

to cater to what customers want. Sptizer said her customers often bring along photos from magazines or Pinterest, and the staff works to accomplish the look.

Oil Change MasterLube 2650 4th Ave. N. 1331 Main St. 1628 Grand Ave. 2424 King Ave. W. 203 SE 4th St., Laurel Locally owned and operated, MasterLube has served Montana and Wyoming vehicle owners since 1981 with oil changes, fluids, filters and belts, windshield chip repair and replacement, and hand car washes and detailing. There are good reasons you can trust MasterLube to take good care of your car,” said president Craig Godfrey. “We carry only the best products, but it’s our service that brings customers back again and again.” Customers can watch and listen as the team of young people call out the service steps, and double check each other’s work. The staff is trained to look for problems that should be seen by a mechanic, and notify the customer. The foundation of MasterLube service is found in the Golden Rule, Godfrey said,

“The service we offer our customers is the service we expect for ourselves” Godfrey said. MasterLube maintains detailed service records of its customers’ vehicles, Godfrey said, “so when you pull into any MasterLube, we know what oil you prefer, when your air cleaner was last changed, and what the manufacturer suggests at this point in your vehicle’s life.” “We recommend, we remind, we offer,” Godfrey said, “but we never sell.”

Optical Store

es, safety glasses to sports goggles. Ultra-thin, non-glare, high-definition digital lenses give vision a “wow” factor. “Truly, you can see the difference. There’s nothing in eye care that we cannot do,” Schied said. But, the best part is matching clients to the right combination of eyewear for their lifestyle and vision, he added. As an eleven-time Readers’ Choice winner, there’s no doubt that Barnett Opticians knows eyewear.

Paint Store

Barnett Opticians 2203 Broadwater Ave.

King’s ACE Hardware

Syl Schied and the staff at Barnett Opticians can give you a clear outlook on the world. “Technology for creating and fitting lenses is growing by leaps and bounds,” said Schied, owner of Barnett Opticians, “and we use it to create the crispest vision with the best fit for our patients.” As a Billings optical mainstay since 1952, Barnett Opticians serves multi-generational customers. “It’s our customer service,” said Schied of the business’ success. “We take the extra time to be sure that everything is the best it can be. Plus, we have many long-time, experienced employees.” Barnett Opticians offers the latest technology and the best choices from prescription sunglass-

1551 Zimmerman Trail 2264 Central Ave. 4170 State Ave.

Lockwood ACE Hardware 678 Johnson Lane

Laurel ACE Hardware 415 SE 4th Street

Heights ACE Hardware 1547 Main Street Most know ACE as the helpful place. But there’s no doubt it is also the “answer place.” With six locally owned ACE Hardware stores in the area, chances are there’s one in your neighborhood.

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Our communities are growing! WyndStone - NOW OPEN in the Heights! Call 406-655-7700 for more information

THfoAr vN K YOU oting us the Best Retirement Community

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Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

“We solve our customer’s problems by working with them until we find a solution,” noted owner Skip King. ACE carries several major brands of high-quality paint including Benjamin Moore, Valspar, Clark & Kensington and their own ACE brand, plus all the sundries related to any painting project. Plus, they have unbelievable experience. “Penny (Anderson), the “Paint Lady” is very good at her job,” noted Heights owner Bob Hanson. “She’s extremely adept with colormatching for helping our customers solve their paint issues.” Anderson, who has more than 25 years of experience in the paint industry, knows both the product and ACE customers well. “You have to be instinctive and build a relationship, while imparting years of knowledge and give the customer what they are asking for,” she said. “For example, when it comes to color-matching, our paint will not just be good, it will be perfect.” Other long-time, customer oriented employees, one of them since 1983, add to the entire friendly feel at ACE. “Our clients tell us they come here for the customer service,” Anderson said. “I love my job and we are the experts here; if customers need questions answered, they will get that at ACE.”

Pet Groomer Groomingdale’s Salon & Paw-tique 1436 Central Ave. Humans have Bloomingdale’s. In Billings, dogs and cats have Groomingdale’s Salon & Paw-tique. It is, likely, a fair trade. Owner Stacey Hess is the only groomer in Billings who is certified by the National Dog Groomers Association of America; in fact, she is one of only three in the entire state. “At Groomingdale’s we are pet stylists—we tailor the service to both the pet’s looks and also to his or her health issues like nails and skin,” Hess said. For example, schnauzers’ hair continues to grow, even past a certain length, like humans’ hair. If it is not cut, the dog will have problems like matting and dander, even in winter. “I am passionate about pets, and to me, grooming is an art form,” Hess said. “It’s more than just a haircut, it’s a way to make them look their best, and that’s why continuing education is so important as is building a trusting relationship with our clients.” In business since 2011, Hess has recently added cat grooming and on-site pet day care. She noted that cats are cared for away from dogs (unless specified) and both the indoor and outdoor spaces are designed with the

dogs’ comfort in mind, including either orthomats or synthetic grass.

kids just love it,” she said. “It’s so much fun and that’s what we are about.”

Pet Store

Plumbing Service

Exotic Pets 2342 Grand Ave.

Precision Plumbing and Heating 304 S. 25th St.

Melissa Leiseth, owner for nearly 22 years, considers Exotic Pets to be a great place for an afternoon outing. “Even if you don’t have a pet, stop in anyway,” she said. “This is such a fun place to visit.” Leiseth estimates that at any given time, visitors could see about 100 different animals, from kittens and puppies to less common hedgehogs, sugar gliders, large lizards and everything in-between. Exotic Pets also carries pet accessories and food,including a live variety of crickets, mice and roaches. In addition, they offer dog grooming. “Our groomers have been here 22-plus years,” Leiseth noted. “Our staff is experienced, enthusiastic and caring and those qualities make us stand out from our competition.” Knowledgeable, friendly service such as this has earned Exotic Pets the Readers’ Choice Award for the past six years. Exotic Pets is also known for its annual hamster races. Leiseth looks forward to the event every May. “We’ve had as many as 48 hamsters and the

Dave Biegel may be one heck of a plumber and an excellent business person, but he insists he is just one player on the team at Precision Plumbing & Heating. “It’s my employees who won this award; they fulfill the mission. We just give them the tools they need so they can be the best,” said Biegel, who has owned Precision for 22 years with his wife, Teri. With 38 years in the plumbing trade, the Biegels have 80 employees in their Billings, Bozeman and Williston, N.D., locations. He said winning the award this year was a “pleasant surprise.” “Our people work really hard,” he said, noting that his crews have spent a lot of time on large commercial projects, but still enjoy doing residential installations and smaller household repairs. “Finding quality people is always a challenge. The average age of a plumber is over 50, so I want to encourage young people to come look at being a plumb if they are not going to go to college,” Biegel said.

I am honored to be voted the

Best Insurance Agent. T hank You. Angela Stiller Agency Owner

2646 Grand Ave Ste 9, Billings, MT 59102

Thank you!Billings

For voting us readers’ choice best nail salon!

We strive to keep up on the latest trends, provide a clean and friendly environment along with excellent customer service! this would not be possible without the amazing and talented ladies at the salon and our wonderful clients! You are the heart of the business!

celebrating 20 Years!!

Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

651-9000

2215 Broadwater Ave.

Let us show you what we can do for you! Call me for a quote today... 406.294.8226

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and creating a wonderful experience as customers pursue their own part of the American dream. King’s ACE Hardware Laurel ACE Hardware For more than half a century Berkshire Hathaway in Billings has been serving customers and clients in the pur1551 Zimmerman Trail 415 SE 4th Street 2264 Central Ave. Heights ACE Hardware chase or sale of property, whether residential, commercial, farm and ranch, lots and land or business properties. 4170 State Ave. 1547 Main Street “We are extremely pleased to receive, once again, the Lockwood ACE Billings Gazette Readers’ Choice Award in 2016. Thank you to the Gazette readers who judged us best! We know Hardware this award belongs to all of our associates but also may be 678 Johnson Lane partly attributed to our belief in giving back to our community and to the high standards and teamwork we encourage It’s that time of year again. As winter weather threatens, you through individual achievements,” said managing partner wonder, “Did I get that snowblower fixed?” Linda Parker. Or, “Is it time to winterize and store the lawn mower?” Berkshire Hathaway, which began in Billings as Floberg “We service what we sell,” said Skip King, owner of five local Real Estate, has been in business for 57 years and has ofACE Hardware stores. “We take care of our customers and fices in Billings, Columbus and Red Lodge. what they buy from us; if you have a problem, we help you.” “Our mission is to create and provide the most effecACE is the go-to place for homeowners’ power tool needs – tive, stress-free transaction process in real estate and to lawn mowers and trimmers, chainsaws, generators and snow maintain leadership in the real estate profession through blowers – anything with a small engine. Besides regular service innovation, customer enthusiasm and a dedication to qualand repair, they offer a pick-up and delivery service in the city ity,” she said. “In striving to be the ‘different’ company, we limits if you don’t have the means to move that monstrosity. set the highest of standards in all aspects of service to our Trained and factory-certified mechanics know the reputable customers, our associates, our profession, the community brands, Honda, Stihl and Toro, that ACE carries. They also and our work environment.” honor factory warranties. “We have the advantage of being small enough to be more customer-oriented and friendly,” noted Heights ACE Hardware owner Bob Hanson. The World Famous Carpet Barn King, an ACE owner since 1987, praises both his hard2032 Grand Ave. working employees (many have been with King for more than 20 years) and the Billings community which are so important Family owned since 1972, the simple Carpet Barn is now to him. “The World Famous Carpet Barn.” Adding to the name was “Business today is about relationships,” he said. “If you a good move because “more and more people accessorize take care of your customers they take care of you-and that’s with rugs now,” said Terry Walker, store manager. what we do”. Their store has accent rugs available in all sizes and As the weather turns, he added, be sure to watch for the prices, and they fill a customer demand, he added. Optimist Christmas tree sales at the Zimmerman ACE Store. “A lot of people are switching to hard flooring – woods,

Rug store

Real Estate Agency

It’s not about a specific home or the neighborhood for professionals at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices in Billings, it’s about the experience. Real estate is about service for Voting Us yoUr

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Bretz RV & Marine 2999 Old Hardin Rd. As Montana’s largest RV and boat dealership, Bretz RV & Marine has been going strong with its complete inventory. “Staff members are seeing our typical autumn trends in sales and service,” said operations manager Dustin Bretz. “Business varies during different times of year. Right now customers want motor homes, fifth wheels and travel trailers to go south.” The service department is helping owners winterize their machines. And machines are what Bretz is all about. “We’ve got everything from travel trailers, fifth wheels, motor homes, diesel coaches and all types of boats. Plus parts and accessories for everything we sell,” he said. He added that it’s not just inventory that keeps the customers coming. “It is our staff. We have an absolutely excellent staff in all departments – best for customer service, for selection, for service, best prices. We know that if we buy in huge volumes, we can sell like Costco does,” Bretz said. AtBretzRVandMarine,theysellmorethan40brandsofRVs. “People come to one place to shop and see dozens of options with one salesperson. It’s easier,” he said.

Because there’s more to life than

laundry. Thank you

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For voting us best dry cleaners & laundry, we feel truly blessed!

2016 READERS’ CHOICE

WINNER B

OF BILLI

Check out our 3 New

“Green & Blue” locations to serve you.

Newly Remodeled. Stop in Today!

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RV Dealer

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Floberg Real Estate 1550 Poly Dr.

tile, vinyl,” he said. That creates a need for softness in the room, which Carpet Barn sells in all available fibers and sizes – manufactured or carpet that is custom bound to exact size, like the 18-by-26-foot rug they crafted and sold this year. “We have a lot of repeat customers, so we are now servicing grandkids. We try to keep a good selection in stock as far as patterns. And our catalogs include room scenes, which helps,” Walker said. The World Famous Carpet Barn’s biggest sellers, year-

round, are NFL team rugs, which Walker said they sell for $10 less than Amazon.com. “We also have the Bobcats. We have the Griz,” he added.

Power Equipment

2016 READERS’ CHOICE

BANQUET ROOM DOWNSTAIRS SEATS UP TO 150 PEOPLE

2474 Enterprise Ave (2 blocks southwest of Costco)

Book Your Holiday Party

WINNER B

OF BILLI

524 Liberty St (Heights, behind Dairy Queen on Main St)

1625 Central Ave • 406-656-6211 Bowler’s Edge: 406-545-4848

406-655-9420 Valet-Today.com

2434 Grand Ave (Next to CVS on 24th and Grand)

Same Day Service | 24 Hour Drop Box | Drive Service

Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

Shoe Store

bears, sheep and many species of birds displayed as you would see in their natural habitat. Those wanting a more hands-on experience Time Out Sports can test their skill at the laser shooting gallery, 1595 Grand Ave. which includes a lively, animated show reminisCindy Thompson was talked into purchas- cent of theme park attractions. Or, wander over to the Buck Hunter game for a virtual shooting ing Time Out Sports by her accountant husoption. band in 1990. She said she was initially leery. For a different type of action, try your hand “I had never worked retail,” she said. “But, one thing I had found frustrating was to have a at the two-lane mini-bowling alley or have your clerk sell me a shoe on color – nothing techni- picture taken at one of the many photo opportunities located throughout the store. cal. I felt Billings needed a place to go where History hounds will appreciate the Walk of someone would measure the foot and ask Presidents, where you can hear Abraham Lincoln questions.” Now, 26 years later, full knowledge comes recite the Gettysburg Address, or Thomas Jefferson read the Declaration of Independence. with every purchase at her store in the West And if you need to re-charge from all the Park Plaza Promenade. shopping and entertainment, head to Gramma Thompson said she said she doesn’t have Ginna’s Deli and Fudge Shop, where you can one hot retail item; she stocks many. First, she sells an affordable over-the-coun- indulge in made-from-scratch deli sandwiches and burgers hot off the grill followed by delicious, ter orthotic, “Sole.” homemade fudge. “These are a great alternative for people Store Manager, Todd Anderson, extends his who need extra support,” Thompson said. deep appreciation to everyone for their votes. Time Out also has the Oofos Recovery flip “We’re honored to be the Billings Gazette Readflops. “They feel like pillows under your feet.” ers’ Choice for sporting goods for the 17th year She also talks about her most popular in a row,” Anderson said. “We invite everyone to shoes: Brooks, the highest-selling running shoe nationwide, and the highly popular Asics come and experience the Scheels store at Shiloh Crossing.” and Saucony sport shoes. Thompson also stocks compression socks. “Athletes want them so they recover quicker, perform better and have increased Sun Splash Tanning blood circulation,” she said.

Thank You

for reCommenDing us, voting for us & plACing your trust in us. It Is a prIvIlege to care for you & your famIly.

Tanning Salon

Sporting Goods

928 Broadwater Ave.

Sun Splash Tanning is stepping out of the sunlight with its expanded business model. In business for 16 years, owner Wayne Sundelius has added an array of services that allow all Located at Shiloh Crossing, Scheels has taken clients to achieve a year-round bronze glow or a healthier, younger-looking body. its reputation for carrying all the sporting gear For tanning, Sundelius said Sun Splash still and apparel you need to reach peak performance offers single-session prices, but has expanded to a stellar level. Covering 220,000 square feet, its club pricing for continuity. This applies to all Scheels is about more than shopping – it’s a stand-up or lie-down beds that tan each client place for families to come and be entertained. specific to their needs. Known for its large selection of sporting “Regardless of individual skin types, we are goods and excellent customer service, the able to maximize results efficiently without store carries an expansive line of merchandise including a large selection of men’s, women’s and ever producing over exposure,” Sundelius said. Sun Splash even offers airbrush tanning children’s fashion, shoes and accessories. that varies the color depth to provide body But that’s not all. contouring. Part of the Scheels’ experience is the enterA fairly recent addition is medical-grade tainment, and this store delivers in spades. aesthetician services. Anchoring the store is the Scheels Ferris First, Sundelius describes their photo therapy wheel – a 65-foot tall, 16-cart, custom-painted that eliminates fine lines and wrinkles. He also ride that will thrill youngsters and grownups explained their non-invasive body contouring alike. There’s also a 16,000-gallon salt water service that uses light energy to burn body fat as aquarium filled with more than 700 colorful fuel. Infrared wraps are also offered and meant to fish that dart in and around the beautifully burn calories and remove body and skin toxins. constructed coral reef. “We are trying to get our customers more For hunters and wildlife enthusiasts, Wildlife and better services. That’s our goal,” he added. Mountain provides a fantastic opportunity to observe mounts of big game animals, varmints, “Clients are treated like guests every time.”

Scheels 1121 Shiloh Crossing Blvd.

Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

Dedicated to providing the highest quality of Aesthetic and Cosmetic care for you and your skin!

Where medical technology meets luxury.

294.9660 • 2294 Grant Rd

behind costco

www.tallmanmedicalspa.com E33

Tattoo Shop

staff also helps small businesses with payroll and accounting services, business Cin City Tattoo & Body Piercing consultation, IT and software system recommendations and implementation 2075 Central Ave. #B and advice in business transition planning; they recently expanded to include Thinking of getting a ‘tat’? For a friendly, comfortable experience, outsourced CEO positions. “We place a lot of value on relationbe sure to check out Cin City Tattoo & Body Piercing. Owner Cindy Hahn opened ships, both clients and otherwise,” said Black, who believes that honesty, integthe business in 2008 and offers custom tattoos, permanent cosmetics (eyebrows rity, accuracy and a nurturing relationship and liners), full-body piercings and tattoo are her business’ most important offercover-ups (to change or cover an existing ings. As an example, Black and staff detattoo). veloped working relationships with “Our customer service is, without a personnel in government agencies (IRS, doubt, one of our best features,” Hahn for example), so they can assist clients said. “We are very attentive to details, artistic and professional—and we listen to with tax “problems” more effectively and efficiently. They also pride themselves on our clients.” While many similar shops may not have being technologically progressive, sharing those tools with their clients. a receptionist, Hahn believes that being “I have a great team – and I’m not just greeted and taken care of from the mosaying that,” said Black. “We have assemment a customer enters is a key component to her clients’ satisfaction. Plus, the bled a diverse set of professionals who get along and complement one another. It artists can then keep their focus on their means a lot to me to have provided more client, not worrying about what is next. than 20 families support with a job and a Hahn also believes that experience presence in a community that I love.” counts. She and one of the piercers have both been in the industry since 2000; the other two have 18 years combined. “I consider my co-workers my family and customers pick up on that—they feel Staley’s Tire and Automotive comfortable here and that makes this 9300 S. Frontage Road more of a dream job than a business,” added Hahn. 1245 Central Ave.

Towing & Recovery

traffic control-certified. All Hanser companies are 24 hours/day, 7 days/week outlets with the proper equipment and personnel to respond to every need of the motoring public.

Hanser’s Towing & Recovery Network 430 S. Billings Blvd.

Hanser’s is a family-owned, four-dimensional company: quality used parts, automotive and truck repair, major transmission rebuilding, and a wrecker and recovery division, which consists of towing, recovery, and hazmat spill remediation. They have been in business for 50 years and employ 84 to 105 employees, depending on the season. With Billings as the primary location, Hanser’s has outlets in Big Timber, Livingston, Columbus, Hardin and Lewistown including seven 24-hour emergency service trucks and nine mechanics. The network includes 34 wreckers and 10 hydraulic carriers. Of the wreckers, there are 12 heavyduty (25-45 ton) and one 40-ton rotator, plus 20 light and medium-duty wreckers to handle any customer needs. In addition to the wreckers, Hanser’s offers more than 100 pieces of backup equipment, which includes heavy-duty fifth wheel trucks, lowboys, flatbeds, reefers and trailers made specifically to handle motor homes and buses. Hanser’s ability to respond to hazardous spills and properly handle the reporting and disposal makes the business a one-call operation. Staley’s Tire and Automotive delivers The remediation company has two professional tire sales, installation and vacuum trucks, side dumps, dump trucks, tire repair services. Staley’s specializes loaders and fully-equipped emergency in “touchless” tire mounting equipment, response trailers for land or water, plus 12 enabling the technicians to mount tires with HAZWOPER-certified employees. Their envispeed, precision and safety without damag- ronmental engineer can handle the reporting tires or wheels. ing and closure on all projects. They also To better serve customers, Staley’s ofhave traffic control trailers equipped with fers on-site tire service and 24-hour call-out programmable arrow boards, which carry tire service. Staley’s also recently built a enough DOT signs, cones, and flashers to hand carwash conveniently located adjacent move traffic into one lane on interstates and to the South Frontage Road store. two-lane highways; all wrecker operators are

Tire Store

Tax Prep Service Colleen Black & Company, P.C. 1925 Central Ave. Be good to your people and they’ll be good to you. That is the motto that Colleen Black has followed while building her business for the past 14 years. In addition to providing tax services for individuals and businesses, Black’s

Wright’s Custom Repair 5 Washington St. Longevity matters. Wrights Custom Repair has it in spades. Started 40 years ago by Frank and Shirley Wright, the upholstery and furniture repair business is now operated by Barry and Colleen Wright along with their daughter and son-in-law, Michael and Michelle Churchill— three full generations of serving customers from Billings and across Eastern Montana and Wyoming. “We strip, repair, refinish, re-upholster and re-cane furniture,” said Colleen Wright, “and Michelle has a real eye for detail—she does most of the upholstery work.” In addition, the Wrights sandblast metal and glass items like lawn furniture, signs or other odds and ends. Colleen notes that many items come with a story, and she loves to hear them. “We get pieces in and re-build them to their former glory,” she said. “The final product is a true transformation. Our customers tell their friends and family about it—that’s the way it works.” The Wrights also buy and sell antiques and entire estates in addition to operating four booths at Marketplace 3301. They also encourage their customers to find them on Facebook. “Be sure to stop in,” noted Colleen, who jokes about their greeter-dog, Charlie— Wrights is truly a friendly place.

VoTing us BesT

DoughnuTs!

ontana Serving M0 years. for over 4

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FoR

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 E

Thank You

Upholstery/ Furniture Refinishing Store

2016 READERS’ CHOICE

WINNER B

OF BILLI

Winner!

Where Vacuums Grow On Poles

1540 13th St West Billings, MT • 6AM - 11PM • Call 245-5138

E34

It is a great honor to be chosen Billings Best Vacuum Store. Thank you for your loyalty!

1804 Grand Avenue • Billings, MT • (406)656-8681 • www.stuartshouseofvacuums.com Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

Stuart’s House of Vacuums 1804 Grand Ave. Stuart’s House of Vacuums made a name for itself at 18th and Grand, “Where vacuums grow on poles,” as the old commercial stated, but owners Sandy and Tom Berkshire are ready for a change. The longtime Billings West End business is planning to move in mid-January to 3127 Central Ave., the strip mall at the corner of 32nd Avenue West that is home to Great Harvest Bread. “We feel like Grand has changed over the years… We want to move west where the rest of the city is growing and expanding,” Sandy Berkshire said. The late Dan Stuart launched the business in 1973 at its current location at 1804 Grand Ave., and he became known as its gregarious pitchman. The Berkshires bought Stuart’s in 1995 and continued its success, even as competition from big-box stores and online retailers rose. Berkshire said Stuart’s tries to distinguish itself through customer service. It’s also a onestop shop for vacuum cleaner parts, including belts, bags, filters and accessories. The store also sells candles, air purifiers and other items

to help with refreshing the inside of the home. Stuart’s also services all vacuums and offers in-store demonstrations. Installations are also available for built-in central vacuum systems, according to Berkshire. “We feel like we have to focus on customer service, and that’s what we’ve done,” she said. The new space next to Petlantis is smaller at 3,000 square feet. But with a different layout, the Berkshires say they’ll be able to store and display all the same inventory. Hours will remain the same at 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. The phone number is 656-8681.

Veterinary Service Caring Hands Veterinary Hospital 533 S. 24th St. W. The name says it all. Dr. Diana Kuehn and her staff of veterinary experts at Caring Hands Veterinary Hospital truly do care about their clients—and their clients’ chauffeurs. “Our goal is to have an environment that is caring and loving for the pets but also create a healthy atmosphere for the staff that empowers them to be warm and hands-on when car-

Window and Door Store Pella Windows & Doors 2520 Grand Ave. Smooth installation, the right product and quality service—that is the mantra of Pella Windows and Door in Billings. For the past 30 years, the business has provided

Montana and Wyoming customers with top-quality casement windows, awnings, bay windows, sliding windows, patio doors, storm doors and hinged patio doors. “Pella has always manufactured to the highest quality with feature rich designs in the window and door industry. Having the best product is not always enough,” said general manager Matt Lucas. “When a homeowner or realtor lists “Pella windows” as a home’s highlight that means something.” Lucas also points to the amazing sales and service staff who are committed to providing outstanding customer care, noting that the average employee has 15-20 years of experience, including specialized training from Pella. “The produce and related service makes a big impact for homeowners—they are so proud of their home after installation,” he said. “We truly do transform their lives.”

Wine Store Simply Wine 1027 Shiloh Crossing Blvd. With two sommeliers on staff, Simply Wine makes wine simple and fun. In its new location for nearly two years

Gracias Gracias Amigos Amigos

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A Family Mexican Restaurant Serving Lunch & Dinner

ing for both our sick and our healthy patients,” said Dr. Kuehn. Reader’s Choice voters agree and voted Caring Hands the best veterinary service for the past eight years. “This is truly an honor,” said Dr. Kuehn. “We’ve been so blessed with great clients and patients.” Kuehn appreciates and understands the bonds between patients and their families. The experienced and empathic staff members, including several long-timers, are often the un-sung heroes. Dr. Ericka Cantamessa and Dr. Marcella Vaughn have recently joined the staff at Caring Hands, offering their own compassionate and competent services alongside Dr. Kuehn. “We so appreciate the loyalty of our patients’ families,” added Dr. Kuehn.

Vacuum Store

2016 READERS’ CHOICE

WINNER B

OF BILLI

Visit Our Newly Remodeled

DOWNTOWN LOcATION 17 N., 29th Street

DOWNTOWN – 17 North 29th Street HEIGHTS – 1403 Main Street WESTEND – 1223 Grand Avenue Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

259-8930 245-2151 652-5156

LAUREL – 216 1st Avenue South HAVRE – 335 1st Street

628-4117 265-1852 E35

now, the staff has worked to live up to customers’ vote as the best wine store, bistro and wine bar in Billings – 9 years running. Simply Wine prides itself on providing their customers expert recommendations in a friendly, fun manner that showcases their passion for the business. Their state of the art Wine Emotion(tm) machines have allowed the wine bar to provide by-the-glass selections of a quality not found anywhere else in the state and customers really enjoy the options they find on the wine list. With more than 25 wines available by the glass daily, hundreds and hundreds available by the bottle, and even more wines at hosted wine tasting events, you are sure to find something new and exciting every visit. Beer lovers shouldn’t fret as the wine bar includes more than a halfdozen beers on tap and a selection of bottled beer is always available. Local brew masters are highlighted and rotated throughout the year. The Barrel Room Casino and Pub located adjacent provides a great spot to meet friends or watch your favorite sports with the seven TV screens. The full bistro menu is available at the bar as well as the entire wine list. Sue Rydquist and Jane Krizeck, the sommeliers at Simply Wine, continue to hand select terrific choices for the three different wine clubs. The retail area boasts more than 450 different wines in all price ranges—each one personally tasted for quality prior to being added to the inventory. “We are so grateful to our customers for continuing to support local businesses and excited to welcome new customers to Billings’ favorite wine store and bar,” Rydquist said.

Choice voters approve once again. “We offer a Texas-style BBQ—all the meats are smoked pit-style with whole logs—it’s the old fashioned way to smoke,” said owner Kim Hager. “Plus, our sides are all home-made—potato salad; cole slaw; baked beans; ranch pasta; baked yams or garden salad—you pick.” Heiko, the baking, and Susan, the business Blue’s BBQ doesn’t veer from its tradiend. tional style either; 100 degrees or 20 below, “My husband (Heiko) has been baking their smoker is working hard. Kim’s favorite since he was 15. Our customers are the is white oak or hickory, but they often use best. They just love what Heiko does, and he fruitwoods here in Billings. The Montana Club loves doing it for them,” Susan Kaas said. Hager noted the legendary Garth Brooks 1791 Majestic Lane Whether baking his best seller, doughonce ate Blue’s BBQ when her husband canuts, or caramel and cinnamon rolls,“baking tered a gig in Sheridan, Wyo. But she prefers Wow. Readers have chosen The Montana has become a passion in his life.” her clients here. Club as Best All-Around Restaurant in its first “And our scones are to die for,” she “We have some of the nicest, most year of business. added. respectful customers,” Hager noted. “They As the sixth Montana Club to open in Though Heiko was born in Germany, his brighten our day and feel like family.” Montana, General Manager Darcie Addchildhood there only covered a combined While southern style BBQ—a dry rub, ington admits that the award was a reason eight years. He spent his adolescent years with no sauce—may be not be what guests for staff celebration. in the Tacoma, Wash., area. He worked on a are accustomed to, co-owner Ken Hager “We hooted and hollered in the back cleaning crew at a bakery, began an informal urges folks to stop in and give them a try. room,” she said. “We strive to make it apprenticeship there, and the rest is delian experience, not just a meal. With our cious history. servers and our food, we hope to wow all The couple started a bakery in Tacoma our clients. We get comments from people after marrying and brought their experStella’s Kitchen & Bakery that our servers go above and beyond.” tise to Billings 10 years ago. Heiko begins 2525 1st Ave. N. Addington says the servers are allowed, cooking the coming day’s delicacies from even encouraged, to let their personalities 12 to 12:30 a.m. and sleeps in shifts. Susan shine on the job. “Communication style varspends her time as a mom to their young Stella’s Kitchen and Bakery is a downtown ies by server. We don’t want them to sound son, covers the business accounting and Billings icon known for its giant, freshly baked scripted.” works Saturdays in the bakery. cinnamon and caramel rolls. The restaurant Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, The She said customers who need large also offers an extensive menu of homestyle Montana Club has a wide menu for all meals and amounts of baked items should call ahead breakfast dishes, including popular gluten-free all guests. Addington said it is such a menu that to order so Heiko can plan for the increase in items, all served in heaping portions. their clientele covers young children, adults, necessary time. “People are sometimes surprised to couples and large families. Small intimate meals learn that we make almost everything from are as common as large gatherings, she added. scratch,” said Stella Ziegler, who along with her

food

All Around Restaurant

Breakfast

Bakery Heiko’s Bakery 3429 Central Ave. #C The husband/wife team of 25 years, Heiko and Susan Kaas, know bakeries.

Barbecue

husband, Ziggy, owns the restaurant. Popular items include fluffy made-to-order omelets, made-from-scratch 9-grain cereal and oatmeal. Even the pancake batter and “float’em” syrup are time-tested, homemade There’s nothing blue about this BBQ. recipes. Blue’s BBQ has been smoking up a storm “I got those recipes when I was a new bride in Billings Heights since 2004 and Readers’ 60 years ago,” Stella said.

Blue’s BBQ 523 Hilltop Rd.

Thank you for choosing us as your custom framing experts for seven years in a row!

Thank you for voting me for best accountant two years in a row. BI

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I owe it all to my customers and clients.

2016 READERS’ CHOICE

WINNER B

OF BILLI

1211 Grand Ave #4 • Billings, MT 406-969-5394 E36

Thank you

For voting us best Thai Food

2713 Montana Ave • 406-252-4486

1430 Grand Ave. (406) 245-9728

www.framehut.com

MON. - FRI. 9-5:30 SAT. 10-4

Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

Stella’s reputation for delicious, fresh fare extends beyond a loyal local following. Many visitors to the Magic City return again and again to enjoy the homemade goodness. “Recently, an airline pilot who frequently lays over in Billings made a point to tell me, ‘I fly all over and eat in many different restaurants, and you have by far the best food and most friendly staff anywhere.’ That makes me feel really good,” Stella said. Winning the 2016 Readers’ Choice award for Best Breakfast has been an honor for Stella, Ziggy and their entire staff of 44 employees. “We appreciate our customers very much, and thank them for voting us Best Breakfast 10 years in a row,” Stella said. “It makes us feel that the hard work is worthwhile.”

Caterer Tiny’s Tavern 323 N. 24th St.

parties,” said Curt Grimm, an owner of the 34 –year-old bar and restaurant. Even with their popular ribs and broasted chicken, Grimm said that he and fellow owners Roger Knutson and Rich Weller often hear that “customer service is our best offering.” “And we will travel wherever we need to. Everything we do is homemade, not out of a box. That is one thing that sets us apart. We put menus together and we can do just about anything,” Grimm said, adding that Tiny’s has a 16-foot-long BBQ they bring to a customer’s site and prepare grilled meats. Even with extensive offerings, customers do have favorites. “Our wings are very, very popular, as well as our casual BBQs with brats and salads, and summer picnics,” he noted. Tiny’s also has an on-site patio area, and a private room seating up to 35 for catered parties.

Cheeseburger/ Hamburger

Tiny’s Tavern will bring your party to you with its extensive catering packages that can The Burger Dive include food and full bar services allowed 114 N. 27th St. N. through their liquor license’s catering endorsement. “We do a lot of wedding receptions, comThe line is out the door. But don’t fret—you, pany picnics, graduation parties and office too, will have ample opportunity to swim in

burger nirvana at The Burger Dive. Home of Billings’ Readers’ Choice winner for best cheeseburger/hamburger and in business for only six years, this lunchtime favorite has rapidly become a downtown mainstay. This is the Burger Dive’s fourth Readers’ Choice Award win in the six years. With options like the Outlaw, the Jerk or the Blackened Sabbath, who could resist? Plus, few burger joints offer an authentic Jucy Lucy, so look no further. Owners Brad and Andi Halsten took a leap of faith in 2010 and haven’t deviated from their original mission to craft the best fresh burgers, dogs, milkshakes and accompaniments in the region. Plus, they earned the Best of the Bash title at the Food Network’s Burger Bash in 2014— you better stop in and ask about that one. They’ll be on hand to help judge the contest in 2016. The Burger Dive was named the Best Burger Joint in Montana, according to Only In Your State website.

Chinese Food Grand Garden 3839 Grand Ave. There is a good reason that Grand Garden has been voted Billings’ Best Chinese

Restaurant eight years in a row. “We offer fresh and delicious Chinese cuisine along with excellent service in an inviting, friendly atmosphere,” said Alice Li, general manager. Li’s father, Fanfu Li, and Li’s husband, Dave Parker, combined to bring more than 30 years of restaurant experience to the family-owned and operated business. “They put a lot of time and energy into creating wonderful recipes for our guests, they take pride in customers’ satisfaction of their dining experiences at our restaurant” Alice Li said. Grand Garden’s loyal customers and hardworking staff are especially appreciated. “I want to thank our customers for voting us the best Chinese restaurant and supporting us for all of these years. Thanks also, to all of our wonderful employees for helping to provide the best dining experience. It wouldn’t be possible without your continued support,” said Parker. The restaurant offers a daily lunch buffet from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and a dinner buffet from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. In addition, patrons can order off the large menu or order from the full takeout menu. “Our food is very fresh and tasteful; once you try us you’ll come back,” added Alice Li.

Thank You Billings

for voting us Best New Car Dealership. Your loyalty and satisfaction is our #1 priority. Thank you for your business! E

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2016 READERS’ CHOICE

WINNER B

Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

OF BILLI

! u o Y Thank

Denny & The Team E37

Coffee Shop City Brew Billings 1640 Grand Avenue 2425 King Avenue West 802 Shiloh Crossing Boulevard 1131 North 27th Street 710 Main Street 1335 Golden Valley Circle – Opening December 2016 1208 ½ Main Street (Kiosk) 100 24th Street West (Kiosk)

Laurel 401 1st Avenue South City Brew Coffee is literally what coffee means in this city. Since 1998, City Brew has become the go-to gathering place for people jumpstarting their day with a perfectly brewed coffee or unwinding with friends and family during afternoon and evening visits with a handcrafted beverage. During the previous 18 years, City Brew has grown to include eight convenient locations across the area with a ninth location

opening in December, each featuring a drive-thru. With City Brew’s reputation for beautiful coffee, locally-sourced treats and customer service that delights each guest, it’s no wonder they’ve been voted Billings “Best Coffee Shop” for the 16th year in a row. City Brew customers connect with the stores because of great coffee. But, they continue to come back because of the baristas who know the customers and take care of them. City Brew prides itself on unparalleled customer service as they strive to provide a unique experience for each guest. Every customer is greeted and sincerely thanked for visiting City Brew. City Brew also carefully selects and locally roasts only the top 2 percent of Arabica beans from the finest coffee regions in the world. Those beans are roasted right here in the Magic City. The stores are comfortable, inviting places where it is easy to settle in for some quiet reading time, good conversation with friends, or workday business dealings. Even the drive-thru experience reflects their commitment to customer service and personalized interactions.

Doughnuts

Food Truck

Evergreen IGA 1540 13th St. W.

Moving among various locations

Doughnuts “are a pleasure food,” said Devin Driskell, bakery manager at Evergreen IGA. And lots of folks find lots to indulge in as they choose from about three dozen varieties oftempting doughnuts daily at the store bakery. The current owners have had the store for about 16 years, and it’s been in its present location since 1980. But Evergreen IGA traces its history back much further in a site just to the south of the present one. Doughnuts are baked overnight. “When customers come in in the morning, the doughnuts are just being iced,” Driskell said. He said the bakery makes sure it’s buying the “best quality product” that’s then turned into tasty treats by longtime employees who have high-quality standards. Customer favorites include longjohns, bismarks, jelly-filled bismarks and apple fritters.

As a Billings mainstay from the 1960s through 1990s, Sandee’s Drive In spoke to tradition, and is why the new form of Sandee’s was named Best Food Truck. Operating since May, 2016, owners Scot and Jennifer Ireton serve the same burgers, fries and tater tots as the original Sandee’s, which was owned by Jennifer’s mother, Shirley Hampton. “(Her customers) know exactly what they can order (at our truck.) I want it to be the same stuff I was cooking back in the ‘80s. I don’t want it to be new-and-improved,” Ireton said. The truck moves daily among locations across town, and their Facebook page tells customers where they will be. Though the food hasn’t changed from the original menu, the Iretons do want to add more originals. “We are working really hard to get an improved truck operating by the beginning of the new year,” Jennifer said. “We haven’t decided if we should revamp (our existing truck) to serve shakes, ice cream and slushies. Maybe a third trailer?”

Sandee’s

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2016 READERS’ CHOICE

1010 Central Ave • Suite 4 • Billings, MT 307.754.7252 • Powell, WY

WINNER B

OF BILLI

w w w. a c t i o n e l e c t r i c i n c. co m

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Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

Billings Gazette 2016 Readersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Choice

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“It is up in the air, but for sure we are going to have one on each end of town.”

Fresh Meat/ Seafood

Frozen Yogurt Shop Spinners 3031 Grand Ave. # 200

Seafoods of the World 5800 Interstate Ave.

It’s a frozen treat that can’t be beat! And, for the fourth year in a row, Readers’ Choice voters agree. Spinners has won the award every year it has been in business. Perhaps being a wholesale distributor Imagine more than 50 types of toppings since 1978 limited public exposure for Seafor your 24 different flavors of frozen yogurt foods of the World, but owner Dave Smith and sorbet. Vanilla and chocolate ice cream said that is changing. “We just opened the retail market in April are always available. The “Spinner cup” al2015,” Smith said, but that addition to their lows you to create your own blended flavors in a flurry of flavor. Cones, waffle cones and location of 12 years has brought in a whole waffle bowls, are also available. Spinners new set of customers, “Since I started in even has three-compartment cup dividers the wholesale business and was not used to spending hundreds on advertising, I saw for those who like a variety of flavors in one cup—the possibilities are truly endless! my regular customers spreading the word. “You can be as creative as you want,” We’ve seen steady double-digit growth from said business co-owner Dave Diehl. the retail end.” From gummy bears to Oreo crumbles to “It minimizes our risk,” he said. “More fresh fruit, cut daily, to chopped nuts, Spinpeople hear about us every day. And, we ners has enough topping options that your still sell to restaurants, other supermarkets, head really will spin. Yum! other distributors.” But it’s not just about tempting treats, He said there has been good reaction Spinners is a place where family and friends from people new to Billings, too. can gather again and again for something “We have King Crab, lobster tails, a good line of wild shrimp. And, for customers who new. Co-owner Julie Diehl, who is often onlove sea food and other (less-common) site, remarked that families, kids, sports items, I have escargot, alligator, frog legs teams and grandparents all love the clean, and all kinds of exotic products,” Smith said. He keeps his seafood and exotic products fun atmosphere of Spinners and notes that gift cards make the perfect reward or in a 12-foot refrigerated case and guarstocking-stuffer. antees that those foods have never been frozen.

dients as we can for our homemade ice cream,” said Billings general manager Lia Munson. The Big Dipper features new flavors daily, but sticks to the traditional ice cream desserts, rich and creamy sundaes, shakes, root beer floats, heaping cones of ice cream and freshly pressed waffle cones. “We let ice cream be the star of our show,” Munson said.

There are also daily specials and happy hour prices. The staff of Asian Sea Grill & Sushi Bar invites you to come in and enjoy Japanese food served by friendly people. Don’t forget they offer take-out, too.

Lunch Montana Brewing Co. 113 N. Broadway

Italian Food

It’s noon. Where are you having lunch? Ciao Mambo The vast majority of Billings has spoken and said they’d like to spend their lunch 2301 Montana Ave. hour dining at Billings historic Montana Hungry for Italian? Head on down to Brewing Company—or the Brew Pub, as it’s Ciao Mambo on Montana Avenue for some known to locals. scratch-made, authentic dishes. Gourmet mac & cheese, always-delicious Jeff Schlenker, general manager, is proud burgers, tasty salads and curious extras like to note that he and his hard-working staff enchilada bites and flatbread pizza highlight never use food out of a package, nor do they the restaurant’s lunch menu. use pre-made items. In fact, Ciao Mambo, “Our menu is very diverse and unique to a Montana-born company, uses Montanaour restaurant,” said owner Sean Graves. made pasta for the ultimate in flavor and “We try to be inventive, innovative and freshness. always offer superior customer service.” “We don’t even have a microwave in this With lunchtime time constraints, customkitchen,” Schlenker said. “Everything we ers can rest easy knowing they’ll get their dish make happens on the gas range or in the in a timely manner at the Brew Pub. brick oven.” “We strive every day to make sure that And who knew that eating out could be lunch service is prompt,” Graves said. “It is so amusing? Pull up a stool at the kitchena rare day when you have to wait for food at side countertop for some “reality entertain- The Brew Pub.” ment,” Billings-style. Schlenker barks out And while the service is speedy, quality orders to his expert staff and, in-between is never compromised. Burgers made-totossing pizza pies, they banter back. It must order, exclusions and items on-the-side are be seen to be believed. always welcomed. In January, Ciao Mambo will celebrate its To their loyal following of customers, seventh year in Billings. With space for 150 Graves would like to extend his warm guests, there are always seats available. thanks, and to those yet to try a bite at the Brew Pub, Graves says “you’re missing out. Big Dipper Ice Cream We do so much more than just brew beer.” Sud’s Hut 100 N. Broadway Always a delightful pairing with any lunch 1110 Broadwater Ave. item, patrons can come back after work When you think of Montana, the first Asian Sea Grill & Sushi Bar to enjoy some of the craft brews that the The words have been synonymous since thing that comes to mind may not be ice 1911 King Ave West, Suites 3 & 4 Pub has to offer—with a plate of nachos, of cream. But part of the Treasure State’s 1976: broasted chicken and Sud’s Hut. course. treasures are its ice cream and no ice cream Using a pressure cooker, the chicken is There’s a very good reason why Asian shop has a bigger following than Big Dipper cuisine lovers flock to Asian Sea Grill & quickly cooked in oil, sealing in the juices Ice Cream. and flavor. A mid-town mainstay, Sud’s Hut Japanese Steak House, the tempting fusion Most recognize the institution from its also offers ribs, seafood, steaks, sandwiches of flavors draws you in. and burgers along with lunch and breakfast Missoula location, but starting in April 2015, Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant They are famous for their appetizers, The Big Dipper has called Billings home, specials. sushi, special rolls and signature combina17 N. 29th St. located at one of the highest traffic locaLong-time manager, Tricia Donaldson tions. Dinner guests can watch as skilled tions in the Magic City at the corner of North chefs grill and serve signature Japanese believes the homey, family atmosphere, 1403 Main St. Broadway and 1st Avenue North. decent prices and friendly service have dishes Teppanyaki-style. 1223 Grand Ave. In two years, it has taken back-to-back contributed to Sud’s Huts nearly 30-years For sushi fans, the restaurant features a Readers’ Choice Awards for the best ice 216 1st St. Ave. S (Laurel) in Billings. sushi bar with a wide variety of items always cream. While it features many of the frozen- made with top-of-the-line fish and other “We thank our many multi-generational 335 1st St. (Havre) customers for being with us all these years. dish standards, like chocolate and vanilla, it fresh ingredients. If traditional Japanese also has Montana favorites like Huckleberry fare is more to your liking, the diverse menu When you think of home cooking, you And if you have never been to Sud’s Hut may not think fajitas or enchiladas, but that’s come on out, give us a try!” said Donaldson. or the exotics like Bananas Foster or Kiwi ensures guests have a wide variety of deliApple sorbet. exactly what Juan Nuno’s restaurant serves – cious options to satisfy their hunger. “We use as many locally sourced ingrehome cooking in Mexican style.

Fried Chicken

Ice Cream

Japanese Food

Mexican Food

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Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

SAY

THANK FO YOU S A RV S U O

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t s e B ’ s g Bi l lin Stor e ! t e n i b a C Kitchen

WISH TO E W

2016 READERS’ CHOICE

WINNER B

OF BILLI

TING

505 S. 24th St. W.

904 Main St.

BILLINGS | 406-656-9300

HEIGHTS | 406-651-4678

Open MOnday – Friday 8-5,

Mon.-Fri. 9:00 - 6:00 • Sat. 9:00-5:00 Sun. ClOSed

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And coming home to Guadalajara’s Mexican food doesn’t just mean a good meal, it means coming to a place where food is prepared to your taste, where the staff know you by name, and where things are made from scratch, not from the freezer. Since 1979, Juan Nuno has worked in the Mexican food industry. Those decades of experience taught him how to run a restaurant focused on service and good food. The food he makes is based on the recipes in his family, but adapted for Montana. “I would definitely call this California style,” Nuno said. When Juan speaks of Mexican cooking or other Mexican restaurants, he has great things to say about the variety, just as there is no single definition of American style food. Juan focuses on cooking recipes that take advantage of ingredients that can be gotten fresh here. “Our salsa may taste different from day to day just slightly because of the peppers. They’re fresh, so they’re not going to be the same and people come sometimes just for the chips and salsa,” said Cindy Nuno, one of Juan and Nelly’s daughter who helps run the group of Montana restaurants. Because all of the items are cooked from scratch, customers get the best flavors and good food that can’t be found everywhere.

Juan loves his carne asada, the enchiladas and the fajitas. “I love making the fajitas because they come out, and the smell... every head turns,” Nuno said. It’s the sizzle, the smell and then the fresh taste that pleases the senses – and that’s what good food is about, having that sensory experience. Juan credits his dedicated staff and loyal following of customers for the restaurant’s continued success. Juan shoulders much of the cooking and food prep responsibilities. “Our food comes from our family to your family,” he said.

Microbrewery Angry Hanks 420 N 30th St. Even with his business degree from Montana State University – Billings, Tim Mohr admits that his highly popular Angry Hanks Microbrewery began as a hobby. Trial and error that began more than a decade ago have led to the sales growth seen by the brewer of best-selling Street Fight Red Ale and Anger Management Belgian Wheat. “I bought a home-brew kit from a cata-

Keystone Mortgage wants to congratulate Billings Gazette Readers’ Choice Winner Belinda Osborne

log. …I thought it was kind of a hobby gone really bad. But, it’s been very good for us. We have fantastic problems,” Mohr added. First serving its beers in a different downtown location 10 years ago, Angry Hanks keeps things simple. “It’s a fun place to hang out. We don’t have bands; we don’t have food. It’s a fun place to meet your friends. Beer is a Social Grease,” Mohr said. Even his tap room is simple. “It is industrial chic – a lot of metal, brick and wood in an old carriage building built in 1916.” Even with success, the brew master ensures customers, “No changes are coming. We just finished a capacity increase to make more beer.”

Pizza Carbone’s Pizza 3925 Grand Ave. Most pizza places offer their menu items dine-in, take-out or delivery. Carbone’s Pizzeria offers all that and pizzas topped with the most delectable Wisconsin cheese available, said General Manager Troy Ask. He said that this is the only Montana location for a Carbone’s, which is a pizza franchise

in Minnesota and Wisconsin. About five years ago his family purchased the pizza restaurant, found near their Club Casino and Bottles & Shots Liquor Store. “Our thin-crust pizza is our signature. We hand make the dough every day. We use Carbone’s recipe from back in the ‘50s using top-grade ingredients. …Carbone’s sausage and cheeses are shipped in from Wisconsin. Ingredients are cut fresh daily, sourced in-state from local distributor.” Though the pizza has not changed, Ask said that the restaurant upgraded their menu last month. “We have appetizers, and a Philly cheese steak sandwich that is just going gangbusters. …We’re trying to boost up our lunch as much as possible,” Ask said. Carbone’s is also waiting on city approval for an addition for a seasonal patio for outdoor seating, Ask said.

Ribs CJ’s Bar & Grill 2455 Central Ave. If a meat can be barbequed, CJ’s Bar & Grill most likely serves it – with choice of sauce, side dish and refreshing cocktails, too.

Thank You

Billings

for voting us the #1 RV Dealer Don’t forget to Winterize!

Belinda Osborne E

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2016 READERS’ CHOICE

WINNER B

OF BILLI

Mortgage Loan Officer NMLS 470803

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Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

We don’t campaign for your Readers Choice vote, so we’re always happily surprised when we win.

It must be the ice cream! We’ve been giving our customers free ice cream in the summer for many years, and we know they like it because they talk about it so much. But we know there are other things our customers like also… • They like to be treated with respect and dignity. We say we are “Ladies and Gentlemen serving Ladies and Gentlemen” and we want every customer, when they leave our store, to leave feeling they had been treated honestly and honorably. • They like us to have their favorite brand of motor oil. That is why you see 125 different oils available in each of our stores. Oil companies don’t like that, but we explained that we don’t work for oil companies; we work for our customers. • They do not like us to “hawk” things on them. Throughout the history of the lube center industry the biggest complaint that people have had is the tendency of companies – usually in big cities – to try to sell them extra services that they often don’t even need. We don’t do that. We recommend, we remind, we offer, but we never sell. We judge our success by how soon you come back, not by how much you buy. Providing our customers what they want does not happen by accident. We work hard at it, and we train hard also. We take this award as a sign that we are doing a pretty good job!

Thank yOu BiLLinGs and LaureL! We feeL hOnOred By The OPPOrTuniTy TO serve yOu! Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

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Romantic Dinner Jake’s 2701 1st Ave. N. 2425 Gable Rd. Every romantic dinner at Jake’s begins with the ambiance, whether at the downtown Steakhouse or West End Bar & Grill, according to Scott Berube. As general manager of the downtown steakhouse, Berube sees it every day. “It’s our ambiance; rich, deep, dark woods, with dinner lighting. It’s the finer things,” he said. Those fine things start with the menu he said. A full wine list, signature cocktails and appetizers start the night. “For entrees, we’re known for our steaks, but we also have seafood. And, we stay up to date with the (dining) trends,” Berube said. He said share-able deserts also speak to romance. Customers keep coming back, and voting for Jake’s in different Readers’ Choice categories each year. “That’s a difficult task to do,” Berube said. “Our great employees keep the customers coming back.” Those employees have seen countless couples become engaged at Jake’s, sometimes with a bit of staff assistance. “Many times, the man calls beforehand. We set candles and flowers. But, in typical guy fashion, (some) wait ‘til they get here, say he has go to the bathroom and try to put a plan together with staff

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right on the spot,” Berube said.

Seafood Bistro Enzo 1502 Rehberg Lane

Steak Montana’s Rib and Chop House 1849 Majestic Lane High quality food at a competitive price plus excellent customer service – that’s the secret to the success of Montana’s Rib and Chop House, according to Rory Sandoval, Director of Operations. “We call it Rocky Mountain hospitality; it’s more than our brand, it’s a promise,” Sandoval said. Renowned for their ribs and seafood, this year the Montana-based restaurant won the Readers’ Choice Award for their succulent steaks – another house favorite. “We use only Certified Angus Beef produced by ranchers in Montana and Wyoming,” noted Sandoval. “And we cut our steaks in-house.” Those melt-in-your-mouth cuts of meat are served on a plate that’s heated to 450 degrees, keeping them sizzling hot and full of flavor.

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As Bistro Enzo approaches its 18th year serving its mix of fine American, French, Asian, Italian and Mediterranean fare, owner James Honaker knows that changing things up keeps customers happy. “We’ve progressed over the years. … In the beginning we were a classic bistro, now we’re more worldly. It looks nice, but, it is casual,” he said. The menu is divided into Enzo classics and special dishes served on specific nights. Honaker said the menu includes, of course, seafood. “That is most popular—any kind of fish or shell fish,” he said. He added, “We also have Kobe beef from Snake River Farms. Also, fish and chips, and macaroni-and-cheese are now popular.” Always popular, though, is the beer and wine at Bistro Enzo, though Honaker said 80 percent of Enzo customers choose wine. To “refresh” Bistro Enzo, Honaker is working on a new site design and major menu change that he hopes to have in place next spring. Keep up on changes by visiting www.bistroenzobillings.com.

“Food wise, we are known for our smoked meats and skins-on fries, which are our homemade potato chips. And, we smoke all our ribs, brisket, pork and chicken,” said CJ’s co-owner Matt Burton. “We have a good rib rub and we cook the meats properly,” but that is not why the restaurant is busy seven days a week. “There’s also our sauce. It’s something we’ve had since day one. It’s a good combination and comes in mild, medium and hot. It’s a true flavor we have. It goes good with all meats and fries.” Though Burton speaks at length about the nuances of CJ’s sauce, he also talks up their cocktail selection, which has become a customer draw. “In this past year, it’s been about Moscow Mules,” Burton said. “Mules, lemon-drop martinis and cosmos. We are pretty versatile. Plus we have added more beers on tap.” They’re a perfect addition to a rack of ribs.

2016 READERS’ CHOICE

HANNAH POTES/Gazette Staff‌

WINNER B

OF BILLI

Jake’s is this year’s Readers’ Choice for best romantic dinner.

In business for 13 years, and open in Billings for the past seven, Montana’s Rib and Chop House has garnered a loyal clientele. “You would be surprised how many people eat here twice a day, five days a week,” Sandoval said. “And we love to serve them.” Sandoval and the entire Rib and Chop team are excited to be this year’s winners for best steak. “We want to thank the voters and our customers, we are truly grateful and honored.”

Sub Sandwich

by blue cheese crumbles, grilled onions and all the fixin’s. “The menu very much mirrors the store in Bozeman,” McComish said, “but we’re always happy to customize your sandwich.” With everything made-from-scratch and sliced fresh daily, McComish said his customers get exceptional freshness and value. McComish wants to thank his customers for their patience and their vote. “We are so happy to be back open and look forward to serving you,” he said.

Pickle Barrel 3225 Rosebud Dr.

Sushi

When Daniel McComish and Chelsey Pirtz, co-owners of the Pickle Barrel, reopened their doors in July of 2014 at their new location, the response was colossal. “We initially just wanted a few guests at our soft opening to get a feel for the new space, but before we knew it, people were stopping by and the restaurant was wall-to-wall people,” McComish said. “We just went with it.” A dedicated following of Billings sandwich lovers were overjoyed with the re-opening of the restaurant, which temporarily closed its doors in 2012. As new franchisees, McComish and Pirtz are pleased to offer some of the tried and beloved sandwich options like the Blue Streak—a steak sandwich complemented

Fancy Sushi Asian Fusion 1313 Grand Ave. # 3 Featuring dozens of savory sauces and unique pairings, Billings’ Fancy Sushi Asian Fusion has been reinventing the traditional take on sushi. Owner Jimmy Li ensures freshness in all his fare, shipping in fresh fish daily from Hawaii and Seattle. One of Fancy Sushi’s most popular menu items continues to be the spicy roll, Li said, adding that customers are constantly experimenting with exciting and savory pairings. “I have to thank our regular customer base,” Li said. “I have some customers who come in two or three times a week.”

Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

Li also wants to remind customers that the restaurant serves much more than just sushi. The expansive menu features Chinese, Thai and Japanese influences— hence the “fusion” portion in the businesses’ moniker. A delectable hybrid—guests can enjoy pad Thai, curried chicken and various teriyaki dishes in addition to a wide range of sushi rolls. Looking toward the future, Li hopes his guests will continue their great wordof-mouth advertising and send in their friends. “We treat our guests like family,” he said.

of you on a hot blazing grill. “We even have young kids coming in for the experience. Chucky Cheese has become a hibachi scene. So much for pizza and ice cream,” Young said. For the young at heart, Young said their signature cocktails are unforgettable. “And, prices are even greater during happy hour.”

Wings The Vig Alehouse 501 Hilltop Rd.

Last year Billings Gazette readers chose The Vig Alehouse as Best Sports Bar, and this year, the award for Best Wild Ginger Wings went to the Billings Heights hot spot. 2713 Montana Ave. “We use high-quality stuff. Our patronWith its 8,000-square-foot, streetage really likes what we do up here in the front Montana Avenue restaurant, lounge Heights; more people should come up and bar going strong, Wild Ginger draws here and see what we do. It is good, and it customers of all ages for an unmatched is exciting,” said Aric Weber. dining experience for lunch and dinner. As general manager of The Vig Ale“We have a fabulous downtown locahouse, it’s his job to manage the bar and tion, wonderful food and the only raw restaurant seven days a week, while keepoyster bar in Billings,” said Mikal Young, ing customers happy. general manager who also oversees the “People enjoy our wings, which is great bar that brings in local bands on weeknews. Just for the mere fact that nearly ends. every place in Billings has a menu with Opened in August 2015, by Howard and food and wings. It’s an honor,” Weber Tina Wu, who also own the popular Asian said. “We have a full bar, a pretty strong Sea Grill, Wild Ginger has a complete contingent of beers brewed in Montana Asian-fusion menu and Wyoming. …Thursdays, (starting at In his role as head chef, Howard Wu, 5 p.m.) we have free wings to offer you takes charge, Young said. until we don’t. And our $3.50 beer special “He’s cooking, socializing, rolling sushi. goes all day Thursdays.” He’s very meticulous,” Young said. Within the next year, The Vig Alehouse He ensures customers of the authenwill feature a new menu, something that ticity and freshness of all ingredients should be exciting for the regular customused. Those same ingredients are used ers and new ones. Don’t worry, though, in the Hibachi Room, where experienced, wings will still be on the menu. entertaining, Hibachi chefs cook in front

Thai Food

entertainment Casino Cadillac Jax Sports Bar & Casino 1744 Grand Ave. Customers of Cadillac Jax Sports Bar & Casino have the best of both worlds. They can play games using machines outfitted with the latest technology and enjoy delicious food seven days a week. It’s all part of the goal to provide fabulous entertainment in a friendly atmosphere. Owner Roy Johns takes particular pride in his staff. “We have a talented kitchen staff, friendly bartenders, superior servers and great casino workers all of whom make sure our customers have the best experience,” Johns said. In addition to food and gaming, guests can watch all their favorite sports in the sports bar, where twenty-two 80-inch big

screen TVs carry live sporting events. “We’re headquarters for UFC fights and boxing matches,” Johns said. The fun continues outdoors, where a large deck features two outside TVs for sports viewing plus a fireplace to keep things warm when temperatures cool. “I want to thank all our customers who voted us best casino,” Johns said. “They made a good choice!”

Cats or Griz? Fans of both Montana State University and the University of Montana came out in droves to vote for their favorite school. When the votes were finally tallied, the 2016 Readers’ Choice winner for favorite university is…. The University of Montana Grizzlies! (Bobcat fans – just remember second place is kind of good, right? )

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Billings Gazette 2016 Readers’ Choice

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Karaoke

ons. Very popular! The Red Door Lounge also has live music, concerts and comedy acts. And if you have an upcoming event, you can rent a banquet room and have The Red Door Lounge cater your event. “I want to thank all the readers for voting us Readers’ Choice for Karaoke,” Swain said. “We invite everyone to stop in and experience our great entertainment.”

where he leads a staff of 15 has received a very public award as Best Sports Bar in Billngs. Second, televisions are full of The Red Door Lounge football. 3875 Grand Ave. “We love football season at the Grandstand. We are glad that it’s here,” said Whether you’re an American Idol Lorenz, who has worked at the Grandprotégé or totally tone deaf, you’ll have stand for 11 years, the past four as general equal amounts of fun belting out tunes manager. with Tommy J and the Red Door karaoke Football is seen nearly each day on sound crew. their six big screens and 12 smaller televi“Tommy J is a hero with karaoke, and sions. the brains behind the fun,” said Aaron “We try to have every football game Swain, The Red Door Lounge owner and shown on a different TV on Sundays. …Of manager. A 33-year veteran at the Red course, Sunday is the big draw,” he said. Door, Swain says Tommy J’s personality is With the technology and the teamwork what drives the popularity of karaoke. of his service staff, he knows why sports Pub Station Featuring a diverse catalog of the newfans keep coming back to the sports bar. est tunes mixed in with old favorites, you’ll 2502 1st Ave. N. “We are a neighborhood bar, too, with be sure to find the perfect song to wow many customers who live around here Since opening its hip-and-happening the crowd. and come here,” Lorenz said. “We are a downtown venue for live music last NoAnd patrons can enjoy karaoke every adult day care.” Grandstand Sports Bar & Casino 21-and-older vember, Anne Kosempa and Sean Lynch night except for Sunday, starting around And they feed those customers. 9:30 p.m. depending on sports program- are already enlarging their concert and 905 Grand Ave. “We have the best wings in town bar taproom space to meet public demand. ming. none. Whenever you sell over a ton of A long-time (15-year) concert promoter, While there, sample from their deliTwo things made Jevon Lorenz particu- wings a month you know you are doing Lynch said, “We’re expanding quite a bit – cious menu and choose from signature pretty good,” he said. dishes like Italian nachos or shrimp wont- pushing the south walls to (accommodate) larly happy this fall. First, the business

Live Entertainment

800 patrons.” The Pub Station does not fit any mold of hosting specific types of events that cater to a specific crowd, Lynch said. “We do so many different types of events, so everybody is a client. Most of our stuff involves national touring acts,” Lynch said. The Pub Station was specifically designed as a music venue, Lynch said, and he and Kosempa are able to serve wine, 32 beers on tap and various other beverages. “We have a huge variety of acts and a huge dedication to bringing live music to town,” he added. Through 1111presents. com, Lynch also schedules musical performers to appear at events statewide.

Sports Bar

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