2010 Best of by Consolidated Publishing Co.

Aug. 20-26, 2010

2010

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Aug. 20-26, 2010

Best of winners’ index Lunch............................................................... The Rocket Drive Inn‎ Takeout............................................................ Mata’s Greek Pizza Hamburger...................................................... The Rocket Drive Inn‎ Chicken wings................................................ Jefferson’s Chicken fingers............................................... Zaxby’s Kids menu........................................................ Chick-Fil-A Florist............................................................... Evans Flowers Salon................................................................ Spa at McClellan Cell phone service.......................................... AT&T/Verizon Day spa............................................................ Spa at McClellan Breakfast......................................................... Cracker Barrel Chicken biscuit............................................... Chick-fil-A Coffee............................................................... Starbucks Donut................................................................ LaMar’s Brunch............................................................. Classic on Noble Dinner.............................................................. Top O’ The River Ribs................................................................... Cooter Brown’s Rib Shack Bar.................................................................... The Peerless Saloon Band................................................................. Southern Nites Bartender........................................................ Al Taylor at All-Stars Place for live music........................................ Heroes American Grill Auto repair...................................................... Cobb Automotive Auto service department.............................. Cobb Automotive Real estate company..................................... Keller Williams Real estate agent........................................... Amy Angel Insurance company....................................... Alfa Insurance Car dealership (new)..................................... Sunny King Toyota Car dealership (used).................................... Lenn Costner Auto Sales Dessert............................................................ O’Charley’s caramel pie Ice cream........................................................ Maggie Moo’s Milkshake........................................................ Cecil’s Place Smoothie......................................................... Maggie Moo’s Cobbler............................................................ Cracker Barrel Server.............................................................. Michelle Brown at IHOP Fine dining....................................................... Classic on Noble Bakery.............................................................. LaMar’s Place for a romantic dinner.......................... The Victoria Restaurant

Dorsey’s SUPERMARKET

Serving Oxford’s Community Since 1978

Thanks to the many customers that we have served throughout the years! Store Hours: 7am-9pm Mon-Sat 7am-8pm Sun

601 Main Street Oxford 831-5510

Cocktail............................................................ Classic on Noble/Peerless Saloon Italian food...................................................... Olive Garden Pizza................................................................. Mata’s Greek Pizza and Grinders Mexican food.................................................. Los Mexicanos Seafood food................................................... Top O’ The River Asian food....................................................... China Luck Doctor.............................................................. Dr. James Daniel Hospital............................................................ Stringfellow Memorial Hospital Pharmacy........................................................ Downey Drug Optomotrist..................................................... Dr. David Chandler Dentist.............................................................. Dr. Donald Norby Animal care clinic.......................................... Lusk Animal Clinic Steak................................................................ LongHorn Steakhouse Plate lunch...................................................... Betty’s Bar-B-Q Buffet............................................................... Western Sizzlin Barbeque sandwich...................................... Dad’s Bar-B-Que Mac and cheese............................................. Cracker Barrel Beer selection................................................ Grub Mart Beer list............................................................ Mellow Mushroom Wine list........................................................... Classic on Noble Wine selection................................................ Wine Cellar Produce........................................................... B & B Produce Butcher/meat selection................................ Dorsey’s Supermarket Hot dog............................................................. Sneaky Pete’s Fries.................................................................. McDonald’s Tea.................................................................... Betty’s Bar-B-Q Sandwich........................................................ Firehouse Subs Catfish.............................................................. Top O’ The River Place to watch a game.................................. Jefferson’s Soup................................................................. O’Charley’s Chili................................................................... Wendy’s Brunswick stew.............................................. Betty’s Bar-B-Q Best park......................................................... Oxford Lake’s park Kids meal toys................................................. Chick-Fil-A Kids birthday party......................................... Party Central Cheap date...................................................... Cheaha State Park

Editorial content by Kiri Walton and Chris Pittman

THANK YOU!

THANK YOU CALHOUN COUNTY FOR VOTING US

To all of our loyal customers. We look forward to serving you again... Lenn Costner, Clay Costner, Hal Patterson, Mike Crowe, Mark Stephens, Kelly Patterson & Hillary Ginn 7590 Hwy 431 • Alexandria Intersection of Hwy 431 & Hwy 144 256-820-7500 or Toll Free 866-759-5366 www.lenncostnerautosales.com

IN MEXICAN FOOD

500 Hamric Drive Oxford, Al 36203 (256) 835-7795

1936 Highway 78 E Oxford, Al 36203 (256) 835-8700

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Aug. 20-26, 2010

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Best Lunch

Add some SPICE to your life Food in Wednesday’s Anniston Star

Dr. David Gibson, DMD Dentistry for Adults and Children

Thanks to our wonderful patients and my awesome staff!

Roll Tide!

313 East 10th Street • Anniston • 256-237-0603 Mon-Wed, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Thurs, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Brenda and Stephen Ingram chow down on some barbecue at The Rocket Drive Inn in Jacksonville. First Place: The Rocket DriveInn, Jacksonville Whether it’s their barbecue or hamburgers, The Rocket Drive Inn is one of those places that thrives on word of mouth and return customers. The food is so good, the custom-

ers have to tell somebody. In the South, sweet tea is definitely a staple at the lunch and dinner tables. However, perfectly made sweet tea is a gift, and The Rocket DriveInn has the gift. Christi Willis, from Ohatchee, always stops at The Rocket when

Best chicken fingers First Place: Zaxby’s Zaxby’s is celebrating 25 years in business, and their crispy chicken strips have remained as tantalizing as they were back in 1985. However, many argue that it’s the Zax Sauce that make the strips. The tangy, zippy orange sauce is perfect for the strips or the seasoned fries, so have your quarter ready to purchase an extra sauce package because they’re not free. Zaxby’s is too smart to let that good stuff go for free. The popular chicken finger plate comes with fingers, fries, cole slaw and a piece of buttery Texas toast. Zaxby’s also has wings and Zalads, as well as milkshakes and cookies to satisfy that sweet tooth. Right now, they are offering a Birthday Cake shake in celebration of 25 years of business. Second Place: O’Charley’s Third Place: Ron’s BBQ

passing through. “I like their barbecue meat and onion rings,” Willis said. “When passing through, I always stop[at The Rocket.]” Second Place: Betty’s Bar-B-Q Third Place: Classic on Noble

Best hamburger First Place: The Rocket Drive-Inn Second Place: Cecil’s Place Third Place: Ruby Tuesday

Best kid’s menu First Place: Chick-Fil-A Chick-Fil-A claims to have invented the chicken sandwich, and judging from the its often-imitated, but neverduplicated buttery bun and crispy chicken breasts, it is probably true. The chicken strips and nuggets are made of delicious white meat that kids enjoy. Family Night on Mondays from 5 to 8 entails buying any menu item and

receiving a free four-nugget kids’ meal if the child is under 12. Also, on Family Nights, children can take part in fun activities, like arts and crafts or ice cream bars. Chick-FilA also won first place for its chicken biscuit. Second Place: Cracker Barrel Third Place: The Rocket Drive Inn

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Aug. 20-26, 2010

Best ribs First place: Cooter Brown’s Rib Shack, Jacksonville Cooter Brown’s is truly a shack. It may not look like much from the outside, but this restaurant’s ribs pack a punch, and they don’t need any fancy décor or beautiful landscaping outside. Cooter Brown’s has a funny name, but the place has been in business for decades, and there is no slowing down now. The ribs are smoked and then grilled, which gives it that perfect flavor that is hard to find elsewhere. Tim and Barbara Johnson opened the Shack in 2000, and that year the restaurant won “Taste of Calhoun County” from the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce, as they did the following year and in 2009. The restaurant’s ribs have been listed in 2007 and 2008 as one of the “100 things to eat in Alabama before you die” by the state Tourism Department. Second Place: Dad’s Bar-B-Que Third Place: Sonny’s Real Pit B-B-Q

BamaEscapes.com

The Amy Angel Team “Two agents for the price of one.” Amy Angel (256) 225-3286

Cassie McCord (256) 343-6834

Cooter Brown’s Rib Shack in Jacksonville was voted first place for Best Ribs.

Best pizza

From left, clockwise: Anne Evans, Susie Fletcher, Mandi Peavey and Barbara Miller enjoy their favorite pizza at Mata’s. First Place: Mata’s Greek Pizza Mata’s is known for its cheesy goodness, whether you take it home, to the office or slide into a booth and eat it right there. People travel for miles and miles to devour the ecstasy that is a Mata’s pizza. It’s really about the cheese. Besides pizza, Mata’s also has Greek specialties like gyros or Greek salads as well as other non-Greek goodies like grinders and cheesy or garlic breadsticks. “It’s the best damn pizza,” said Susie Fletcher, who once worked at the restaurant. She has the pizza cooked halfway and then takes it with her to Kentucky for her friends to enjoy. Anne Evans, when she comes to Anniston from Frankfurt, Germany, always makes a stop into Mata’s. Although she and her husband have traveled to various countries, including Italy, he said he has never had better pizza than Mata’s. Second place: Mellow Mushroom Third place: Carpenetti’s

On behalf of the Amy Angel Team, we want to thank you for the privilege of being your choice as Realtor in this year’s “Best of”. We take pride in making home buying or selling an enjoyable and relaxing experience.

Best donuts First place: LaMar’s Donuts LaMar’s Donuts must put something magical in their dough because their airy, sweet doughnuts are nearly addictive. Perfect for breakfast, or let’s face it, for any time, LaMar’s donuts are unparalleled and the seasonal additions are always fun to try. Though they come in all different flavors and shapes, it’s the originals that really are the crowd-pleasers. Want to start your Monday morning off right? Pop into LaMar’s and buy a bag of donut holes for the office. No one will complain. Second place: Donut Prince Third place: Bonnie Ray’s

The staff at Heroes would like to thank all of you for voting us the number one place to see live music! Haven’t been here yet?

Best takeout First Place: Mata’s Greek Pizza Second place: China Luck Third place: Dad’s Bar-B-Que

Best buffet First place: Western Sizzlin’ Western Sizzlin’ is known for its salad bar, steaks and variety of foods offered on its buffet. Western Sizzlin’ is a favorite stop for Sunday dinners or just a great place to bring large groups because there is bound to be something everyone loves.

We would like to invite you out for a great experience in dining and live music.

Live acoustic music in the bar area on Thursday nights Great bands on the stage on Friday and Saturday nights starting at 10 PM For hours, menu, and entertainment schedule check out our website

www.heroesgrille.com

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Aug. 20-26, 2010

AnnistonStar.com

www.bamaescapes.com

Best mexican food

3220 McClellan Blvd. • Anniston, Alabama • (256) 238-0097

River Boat Special

1 ½ pound Catfish Fillet • Served with your choice of: baked potato, french fries, or white Northern beans • Complimentary: cornbread, hushpuppies, coldslaw, & pickled onions

All for $10.45 daily Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 5-9 • Fri. 5-10 Sat. 4-10 • Sun. 11:30-8:30 265978

FIREHOUSE SUBS THANKS YOU

FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

“Where there’s steam, there’s Firehouse.” Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 10:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Sat. 10:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Sun. 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

(256) 835-4660 151 Plaza Lane, Oxford, AL 36203 (adjacent to Walmart)

•Check out our catering menu www.firehousesubs.com

From left: Buster Miles, Karla Ross and her husband, Rad, finish up a meal at Los Mexicanos. First Place: Los Mexicanos Los Mexicanos is a restaurant with nearly a packed house each night at its new location on Hamric Drive, just a short drive from its older location, which is still in operation.

Best server First Place: Michelle Brown Michelle Brown, who has worked as a server at IHOP for the last eight years, is extremely modest. She said she appreciates that customers voted, but does not feel that she is the best server. “I just try to care about people and try to take care of them to the best of my ability,” she said. The employees at IHOP often joke that they wish they could clone Brown. “She is probably one of the sweetest people you will ever meet in your life,” said Linda Shumate, who has been a manager at IHOP since 2005. “She never loses her cool, and she never gets upset no matter how busy we are or how the customers talk to her. It’s beyond me how she does it. “You just have to meet Michelle. She is one of the finest Christian women,” Shumate said. “She keeps some of us sane. She tells us, ‘Just pray.’” Second place: Carolyn Bursona at Roma’s Pizza and Steakhouse Third place: Brandon at Heroes: An American Grille

Customers continue coming back because of the yummy food, which is reasonably priced, and the fun, social hangout-feel of the restaurant. Second place: Mexico Lindo Third place: Frontera

Best smoothie First place: Maggie Moo’s Second place: TCBY

Best cobbler First place: Cracker Barrel

Best chicken biscuit First Place: Chick-Fil-A Second place: Jack’s Third place: Hardee’s

Best bartender First place: Al Taylor of All-Stars Sports and Grille

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Best Dinner

Aug. 20-26, 2010

Best chicken wings

First place: Jefferson’s Jefferson’s has two locations, but the original in Jacksonville is known for its Monday karaoke night as much as for its famous-in-Calhoun County wings. A hot spot for JSU students, Jefferson’s offers a cozy place to see friends, chow down and drink up. “I like the wings,” said Chris Benedetti. “I’m a huge wing fan.” Second place: Struts Third place: Coop de Ville

From left, Megan Polston, Chris Benedetti, and Brandon Self drink a beer at Jefferson’s in Jacksonville.

Linda and David Coleman drove from Birmingham to enjoy dinner at Top o’ the River in Anniston. First Place: Top o’ the River, Anniston Top o’ the River is a chain of restaurants offering seafood classics like fried catfish and shrimp almost every way that Bubba mentions in “Forrest Gump.” At Top o’ the River, all items are prepared with their own secret recipes. Before the meal is served, customers can munch on cornbread, slaw and pickled onions. The

Best seafood First place: Top o’ The River Second place: Red Lobster Third place: Damn Yankees

Best catfish First place: Top o’ The River Second place: The Ark Third place: Red’s Catfish Cabin

“I like the cole slaw, turnip greens, pretty much everything.”

well. The restaurant is not open for lunch, but customers keep coming back to have their last meal of the day at Top o’ The River. “I like the cole slaw, turnip greens, pretty much everything they serve,” — David Coleman, said David Coleman. Besides the food, the Colemans Top o’ the River customer also said they enjoy how swiftly they receive their meals and the friendly service. restaurant, which has been famSecond place: Classic on Noble ily-owned and operated since 1985 Third place: Effina’s in Anniston, also has carry-out as

Best coffee First place: Starbucks Starbucks has coffee that makes you get out of bed. The coffee is rich, powerful and blended better than any other around, which is why it is a national brand that, despite attempts by McDonald’s or Burger King, just cannot be topped. People enjoy treating themselves to a somewhat pricey, Italian-sounding-named coffee.

Plus, the atmosphere of a coffeehouse is unbeatable as well. It’s the perfect place to read a book or just take a break from work or the kids. The caramel macchiato is definitely a national favorite, but even a black coffee from Starbucks is a little more luxurious than the office coffee. Second place: Java Jolt Third place: Café McClellan

Best sandwich First place: Firehouse Subs A sandwich from Firehouse Subs makes you wonder how you had lived so long without something that good. The sandwiches are reasonably priced and range from ham to brisket and the goodness is indescribable, but it’s easy to understand from all the moans as customers savor every bite. Second place: Subway Third place: The Peerless Saloon

Best italian food First place: Olive Garden Though it’s a national chain, Olive Garden has the Italian food that meets a standard and often surpasses it when it comes to pastas and Italian classics. The menu varies for each region of the U.S. based on local specialties and seasonal availability. The best part may be that Olive Garden always offers specials such as their “soup, salad and breadstick lunch” special, which offers unlimited servings. As well as the classics, Olive Garden changes it up and offers new entrees every season such as their shrimp & crab tortelli or parmesan crusted bistecca. It’s a little bit of Italy right in Calhoun County or nearly any other county in the nation. Second place: Effina’s Third place: Carpenetti’s

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Super Market We Appreciate All of Our Customers! Come By and Check Out Our Weekly Specials! 85 Big Valley Drive • Alexandria (Located at intersection of Hwy 431 & Hwy 144) 265984

(256) 847-8466

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Best plate lunch First place: Betty’s Bar-B-Q Betty’s is more than just another barbecue joint. Lots of customers come for the employees just as much as they do for the food. Tommy Griffith has been eating at Betty’s almost every day for 16 years at the same table. “I like the homecooked food, the vegetables,” Griffith said. “It’s the same price as McDonald’s, but it’s better for you.” Betty’s also won second for its mac and cheese and first for its sweet tea. Second place: The Village Inn Third place: House of Chen

“I like the homecooked food, the vegetables.” — Tommy Griffith, customer of Betty’s Bar-B-Q

Tommy Griffith enjoys a meal at Betty’s Bar-B-Q.

Best barbecue sandwich

Evans Flower Shop We are now located at 1014B Noble Street under Nunnally’s Framing. Our main entrance is off Atlanta Ave. (the alley) that runs behind Western Auto, Nunnally’s, Classic on Noble, and Rabbit Hutch.

“the Little Shop in the Alley” 256.236.2589

Best milkshake First place: Cecil’s Place Though Cecil’s Place is small, the taste of their hand-dipped milkshakes is mighty. Cecil’s drive-up window makes it a great stop and go place for those who want their favorite homemade-like meal on the go. Second place: Jack’s Third place: Dairy Queen

Dad’s Bar-B-Que was voted to have the best barbeque sandwich. First place: Dad’s Bar-BQue Dad’s Bar-B-Que has mastered just the right amount of sweet and tangy for its delectable barbecue sandwich. Though it’s known for its barbecue, which comes in a variety of flavored sauces, it could also be the service that made Dad’s a winner. The sides are

Best brunch First place: Classic on Noble Second place: IHOP

just as tasty as the barbecue itself, with fries, onion rings and even barbecue salads. With two convenient locations in Anniston, there is more than enough room at Dad’s for the entire family throughout Anniston and Calhoun County. Second place: Rocket Drive Inn Third place: Golden Rule

Best breakfast First place: Cracker Barrel Cracker Barrel has that down-home feel and taste that is incomparable to any other place except your mother’s home. The breakfast, which can be grits to pancakes to fluffy biscuits and eggs, is the perfect alternative to cooking at home. The prices are not bad, either. The Old Timers’ Breakfast platter consists of two cooked-to-order eggs, grits, sawmill gravy, homemade buttermilk biscuits, and either smoked sausage patties, turkey sausage or thick-sliced bacon. While you wait, and if it’s the weekend, there will be a wait, the large porch is full of large rocking chairs perfectly made for relaxing. Second place: IHOP Third place: Roma’s

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Best asian food

AnnistonStar.com

The Lang family enjoys a meal at China Luck in Oxford. First Place: China Luck China Luck could be a typical Chinese restaurant, except that the food is above and beyond typical. Every meal is prepared to be as close as possible to Chinese meals and offer the well-flavored beef and

chicken along with rice and steamed veggies. Mike Lang, who now lives in Charleston, S.C., makes a detour for China Luck with his family whenever he is back home. “It’s hard to find really good sit-

down Chinese food. They always make sure your cup is filled,” Mike Lang said. “The service here is really good,” said Jay Lang, Mike’s brother. Second place: Fuji Third place: House of Chen

Best steak

Best fries

First Place: LongHorn Steakhouse LongHorn Steakhouse shouts meaty. From the ultraWestern décor with all the horses and the horns and dark colors, this is the place to get steaks that are juicy and succulent. LongHorn has the mastered the sides when it comes to steaks, including a baked sweet potato with butter and cinnamon. Second place: Lone Star Steakhouse Third place: Garfrerick’s Cafe

First Place: McDonald’s McDonald’s is known for those incredible salty, hot fries. The golden fries never make it home once you go through the drive through, and digging the last stragglers from the bottom of the bag is an American tradition, as is licking the salt from your fingers once you’re done. McDonald’s fries are as American as apple pie, and if you want that, they’ve got that, too. Second place: Struts Third place: Rally’s

Best mac ‘n’ cheese First place: Cracker Barrel Second place: Betty’s Bar-B-Q Third place: The Victoria

Aug. 20-26, 2010

Best tea First place: Betty’s Bar-B-Q Second place: McAlister’s Deli Third place: Golden Rule BBQ

Introducing NEW Gluten-Free Pizza.

We believe in providing quality and tasty food options for everyone. Offered with an array of gluten-free ingredients. Enjoy our gluten-free pizza today. Now carrying 2 gluten-free beers - Shakparo and Mbege

High Gravity Beers

Andy Gator, Double Dead Guy, Red Brick Double Chocolate oatmeal, Jackamo, Chimay, Holy Mackerel, Trois Pistole, Orange Blossom Pilsner, La Findu Monde, Don De Dieu, Wild Blue, Maiurback, Misery Bay, Railbender, Sam Adams Imperial White, Sprecher Black and Irish...and more

other draft beers worth mentioning- Naked Pig, Laughing Skull, Mellow Mushroom’s own Bogart beer, Sweetwater 420 and Sweetwater Blue...and many many more micro brewery beers Tickets on sale for our Annual Beer Tasting benefiting Children’s Services Sat. August 28th from 3-5 pm. tickets available by calling

256-835-1444

Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers 33 Industrial Drive Ext. • Oxford, AL 36203 (256)835-1444

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Best Beer selection

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Best place for live music

First place: Grub Mart Grub Mart in Jacksonville is a perfect one-stop shop for grabbing beer, taking in your clothes for dry-cleaning and indulging in some frozen yogurt from TCBY with sprinkles. Oh, and you can fill up your gas tank while you’re at it for one of the lowest prices in town.

Best Bar First place: The Peerless Saloon The Peerless Saloon has a lot of history, and once was a brothel. It’s a location that’s been serving up drinks and entertainment since 1899. What makes The Peerless stand out from other bars is the relaxing atmosphere. The Peerless Saloon is never really rowdy, though it’s always a good time. Any drink you need, you can get it, and the bartenders always remember your face. “It’s unique. It’s historical, a good bar, and I get to see my favorite bartender, Van,” said Tommy Cooper, who regularly enjoys the Peerless. Debbie LeGette said the bar had “a fun atmosphere.” Her friend, Crystal Vaughan, said The Peerless “actually has atmosphere,” which is why she likes it better than other area bars. Second place: All-Stars Bar (now closed)

Best wine list First place: Classic on Noble Second place: The Victoria Restaurant

Best cocktail

Best place for a romantic dinner First place: The Victoria Restaurant The Victoria Restaurant is contemporary Southern dining and is located within the historic Victoria Inn. From the moment you pull up to the door, you are drenched in luxurious romanticism. The valet service allows you to enter the restaurant without a walk from the parking lot, and you and your date are presented with a dinner menu that changes daily. The lights are soft and the outdoor patio is a great place to enjoy a cool breeze on a warm night with your favorite special someone. Second place: Garfrerick’s Café

Aug. 20-26, 2010

Best ice cream First place: Maggie Moo’s Maggie Moo’s has the most scrumptious ice cream around. This is not an overstatement. From the cheesecake ice cream to the rare-but-delectable pina cowlada flavor, nothing beats Maggie Moo’s. Nothing. It’s the creaminess and the softness that make it so tasty that their business doesn’t seem to slow even in the dead of winter. Plus, customers have their choice of a huge variety of mix-ins from strawberries to gummy bears and nearly everything in between.

First place: Classic on Noble Second place: The Peerless Saloon

Best fine dining Best Beer list

Adrienne Moore, Shane Millwood and LaToria Bruce pose for a photo at Heroes in Jacksonville.

First Place: Mellow Mushroom Mellow Mushroom, which can make a fantastic pizza built the way you like it, also has a selection of about 60 beers. If you drink all the beers offered at Mellow Mushroom, you can join the Beer Club, which means you will receive a T-shirt, an engraved beer mug, 20-ounce beers for the 16-ounce beer price, “your name immortalized on a plaque and the deep sense of satisfaction that only comes when one identifies a goal and finds the courage and perseverance to see it through to the end,” as stated on the Mellow Mushroom’s Beer Club website. Also, don’t try to drink all the beers in one night. That wouldn’t be pretty. Second place: The Peerless Saloon Third place: Damn Yankees

First Place: Heroes American Grill Heroes American Grill is not just a place to find some all-American grub, but also a place to listen to some of the hottest local bands. Adrienne Moore, Shane Millwood and LaToria Bruce popped in on a balmy July night this summer to hear one of their favorite bands, Cure 4 Gravity, as they munched on

Best wine selection First place: Wine Cellar Second place: Tyson’s Art & Frame

Best place to watch a game First place: Jefferson’s Second place: Applebee’s

grilled shrimp, clam strips and fried asparagus. Heroes is also a place to kick back with friends, enjoy a brew and play a game of pool or cut up at the bar. For Lisa Clark, a new bartender, she just enjoys “all the new people we get to meet.” Second place: All-Stars Bar and Grill (now closed)

Best Band

Best dessert

First Place: Southern Nites Southern Nites have opened for Rascal Flatts, Joe Nichols and many others. In 2007, the band won “Road to Riverfest” competition after being selected as one of the five best acts to perform in front of a panel of judges and a packed-house audience at Gadsden’s Mort Glasser Amphitheater. The band members are Danny Slick on bass and vocals, Tim Johnson on guitar and vocals, Kim Nichols on guitar and vocals, Stan Hammett on percussion and vocals and Bruce Greene on keyboards and vocals. Second place: The Greenleafs Third place: McPherson Struts

First Place: O’Charley’s caramel pie O’Charley’s caramel pie is a crowd-pleaser. The supersweet pie has a very simple recipe. It has been said that in order to make the ooey gooey caramel pie, all you need is to boil four unopened cans of condensed milk and then pour into a graham cracker crust. However, nothing will compare to getting it straight from O’Charley’s. You can also get an entire pie if you have guests or just one slice to enjoy the goodness at home. Second place: Classic on Noble’s bread pudding Third place: Cecil’s hot fudge cake

First Place: Classic on Noble Classic on Noble is the “classic” place in Anniston for a nice meal. With its chandeliers, white tablecloths and upscale atmosphere, it is the epitome of fine dining. However, it is more than atmosphere. Classic also has delicious food such as the Chicken

Scallopini or the Southern classic, shrimp and grits. It is listed on the menu as one of the 100 dishes to eat in Alabama before you die. Second place: Effina’s Tuscan Grill Third place: Garfrerick’s Café

Best Bakery First place: LaMar’s Second place: Bonnie Ray’s Third place: Donut Prince

Classic on Noble was voted to be the best place for fine dining.

301 East 18th Street • Anniston, AL 36207 • www.SMHhealth.com

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Aug. 20-26, 2010

Best Beer selection

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www.bamaescapes.com

Best place for live music

Best wine list First place: Classic on Noble Second place: The Victoria Restaurant

Best cocktail

Aug. 20-26, 2010

First place: Classic on Noble Second place: The Peerless Saloon

Best fine dining Best Beer list

Adrienne Moore, Shane Millwood and LaToria Bruce pose for a photo at Heroes in Jacksonville.

Best wine selection First place: Wine Cellar Second place: Tyson’s Art & Frame

Best place to watch a game First place: Jefferson’s Second place: Applebee’s

Best Band

Best dessert

Best Bakery First place: LaMar’s Second place: Bonnie Ray’s Third place: Donut Prince

Classic on Noble was voted to be the best place for fine dining.

301 East 18th Street • Anniston, AL 36207 • www.SMHhealth.com

Aug. 20-26, 2010

Follow your Crimson Tide

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Best produce

www.DailyBamaBlog.blogspot.com

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Best hot dog First place: Sneaky Pete’s Second place: Sonic Third place: Gene’s hot dog stand

TURNER MOTORS, INC.

Best soup First place: O’Charley’s Second place: Betty’s Bar-B-Q Third place: Shoney’s

512 S. QUINTARD AVE. • ANNISTON, AL (256) 236-4649

Best chili

STOP BY TODAY AND LET PEE WEE,

First place: Wendy’s Second place: Wagon Wheel Restaurant Third place: Waffle House

LANCE, RICKY & BILLY SHOW YOU HOW MUCH WE APPRECIATE OUR CUSTOMERS! B&B Produce has a large variety of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Buy A Meal and Receive A

FREE

4pcs. Kids Meal Offer valid only at Chick-fil-A Quintard Mall location

Come join us for Family Night every Monday night 5pm - 6pm. Different activities each week

First place: B&B produce The South is a mecca for great produce. Apples, oranges, bananas and the list goes on and on. B&B Produce of Anniston has filled the local desires for quality produce for more than 20 years. And that quality goes across the board. “I’m proud of all our produce,” owner Steve Burney said. “I hope that if I’ll eat it, everyone else will.” Burney gets his produce from the Atlanta State Farmers Market. This choice is critical in putting his store above others in the area.

Best butcher/meat selection First place: Dorsey’s Supermarket Dorsey’s Supermarket has served the public for decades now, so it’s easy to assume the grocery store is doing several things right. Former gubernatorial hopeful Artur Davis even campaigned at the Oxford market this year. It’s the meat, however, that keeps the majority of customers coming through the doors. What exactly does Dorsey’s do to set themselves apart from the rest? It all comes down to the quality of meat. Dorsey’s does not fill or inject their meat, and they cut the portions in-store. This allows for a fresher, cleaner and tastier final product. Second place: Winn-Dixie Third place: Edward’s Grocery

Best brunswick stew First place: Betty’s Bar-B-Q Second place: Wagon Wheel Restaurant Third place: Waffle House

Best Kid’s meal toys First place: Chick-fil-A

Best Kid’s birthday party First place: Party Central

Best park First place: Oxford Lake Freedom Park

Best cheap date First place: Cheaha State Park A good date doesn’t require you to empty the wallet these days — provided you look in the right place. Heading up to beautiful Cheaha State Park is one way to have a great time without breaking the bank. The park has plenty of special deals for couples and families throughout the year. “Sweetheart Weekend” seems especially catered to be a great date event. Each hotel room receives a bottle of sparkling cider and a special “Sweet Heart Buffet” is available. Aww. Second place: Coosa River

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Aug. 20-26, 2010

Best salon

The Anniston Star

FAITH Every Saturday

First place: The Spa at McClellan Park The Spa at McClellan Park is a full-service salon and day spa, open Tuesday through Friday and Saturdays by appointment only. The Spa at McClellan Park offers hair services as well as asthetic skin care services, such as facials, peels or microdermabrasions. These services help renew clients’ skin, giving them a youthful glow and helping erase blemishes or scars. At the spa, they will wax just about everything from the chin to the underarm to the back to the bikini area to keep their clients skin feeling silky smooth. Second place: Razor’s Edge Third place: Anniston Salon Center/Changes Salon

The

Wine Cellar

INC. WORLD CLASS WINES AT AFFORDABLE PRICES

“Good Wine is a necessity of Life” - Thomas Jefferson Check out the biggest little ol’ wine shop in town. We have a large selection of great wines from South Africa, Germany, New Zealand, France, Spain, Chile, Italy, Portugal, Argentina, as well as Domestic Brands. Come in and taste your way around the world

Best spa First place: The Spa at McClellan Park Second place: Prestige Medical Spa Third place: Nail Perfection

“Beautiful, comfortable and most affordable.”

{ WE DO TASTINGS EVERY SATURDAY }

— Online comment

The Spa at McClellan Park was voted best salon and best spa.

Best florist

First place: Cobb Automotive Second place: Southern Star Motor Company Third place: Landers Automotive

First place: Evans Flowers and Gifts Evans Flowers and Gifts offers delivery for $10 for the Anniston area of colorful, carefully arranged bouquets as well as gift packages. Orders can be placed 24 hours a day online at www. evansflowersinc.com. Evans has flowers for any occasion, from birthdays to weddings to the infamous “I’m sorry” occasions.

First place: AT&T and Verizon It’s a tie! AT&T and Verizon both made a strong showing. AT&T is the service provider for iPhones, whereas Verizon has packed a wallop with its new phones like the Droid X, which can do just about everything except the laundry. The service for each company has some of the best coverage in the area.

ACROSS FROM DOWNTOWNER INN

day lives, and Cobb Automotive gives it to them. Cobb Automotive provides a wide array of various services. Cobb Automotive also has two convenient locations in Anniston and one in Oxford. Second place: Mike’s Auto & Tire Third place: West Garage

Best auto repair

Best cell phone service

309 A QUINTARD AVENUE • ANNISTON, ALABAMA EVERETT PLAZA – 256-237-5996

CONGRATULATIONS

Best auto service department First place: Cobb Automotive For many people, when it comes to the inner workings of their cars, they are completely clueless. They want quick, efficient and friendly service when it comes to their cars, which are often essential for the operation of their day-to-

WE NOW A CARRY E IN L L FUL , BEERS, S R O U OF LIQ D WINES, FORTIFIE ARS & CIG

“Evans is very reliable and does a beautiful job.” — Online comment

Steve Landers, Jason Troup, Leon Smith, and Chamber Members

Congratulations to the Matterhorn Grill on their Grand Opening! The Anniston Star welcomes you to our community.

MATTERHORN GRILL

700 Quintard Avenue • Oxford, al 36203

Aug. 20-26, 2010

24 â&#x2014;&#x2020;

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Best pharmacy First place: Downey Drug Downey Drug was started in 1971 by Jim Downey, who graduated from Auburn University’s pharmacy school three years earlier. He teamed up with Paul Graham a few years ago and they bought a place in Alexandria. For Downey, it is important to remain an independent drug store, and he feels that it is his mission to make sure people are treated well and respectfully. “To me, it is very simple. It’s just service, taking care of people, making people count,” Downey said. “I always beat that dead horse with every employee. Every customer has feelings, and you must treat every customer like your mother and your father.” Downey said that perhaps they were voted as one of the best pharmacies “because people notice that we focus on their needs. We realize people have problems, and we

Aug. 20-26, 2010

AnnistonStar.com

Donald T. Norby, D.M.D. Pediatric Dentisty

Downey Drug was voted best pharmacy.

1701 Leighton Avenue • Anniston, AL 36207

(256) 238-9233 realize people need help … We’re a hometown drugstore. If we make a profit, it goes right back into the

community.” Second place: Crowe Drugs Third place: Martin’s Pharmacy

Best hospital

Best real estate agent

First Place: Stringfellow Memorial Hospital The legacy of the Stringfellow Memorial Hospital began in 1920 when Susie Parker Stringfellow died and left behind money and plans for the development of a hospital. Eighteen years later, the hospital began operation as a 10-bed tuberculosis hospital. Now, the hospital has expanded and its emergency room has 13 beds, and it has its own pharmacy and laboratory as well. To know the current wait time in the emergency room, simply log on to the hospital’s website at www. smhhealth.com. It is also possible to pay bills at that site as well. About a year ago, the hospital started its Children’s Asthma program as an addition to its cardiopulmonary department. Because of programs like this, Stringfellow visitors have ranked it the tops. Second place: Regional Medical Center Third place: Jacksonville Medical Center

First place: Amy Angel Amy Angel has been a realty dynamo since she began in 1997. In 2007, she joined the Keller Williams Realty Group, which was voted Best Realty Group, and covers mostly the Jacksonville area. Not every assistant can find nice things to say about their bosses, but Cassie McCord, Angel’s former assistant and current business partner, practically glows when she speaks about Angel. “It’s just been so fun. She is very personable, very real. People can really relate to her, and she stands out in that area,” McCord said. “She doesn’t like for me to say it, but I tell her all the time that she’s my Angel. I could go on and on about how awesome she is.” Angel encouraged McCord, who

Thank You

Amy Angel was voted best real estate agent. at the time was her assistant, to get her real estate license so that they could work together. Now, Angel is the listing specialist and McCord is the buying specialist. Second place: Ken Butler Third place: Joey Crews

Best real estate company First place: Keller Williams Keller Williams is a realty group with heart. Besides selling homes and helping people find new ones, they also give back to the community

such as sponsoring 50 children through the Salvation Army at Christmas. Keller Williams Realty Inc. was founded in 1983 and has 600 offices throughout the U.S. and Can-

ada. According to the local KW website, “this is about more than real estate. It’s about your life and your dreams.” Sold! Second place: ERAKing Real Estate

Calhoun County for Voting LaMars #1

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1781 Hamric Drive East • Oxford, AL 36203

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Aug. 20-26, 2010

BamaEscapes.com

Satisfied Customers Make Our Day! Chris Martin, Pharmacist/Owner 610 Quintard Drive • Oxford Phone: (256) 831-6116 Fax: (256) 831-7466 Martinspharmacy.al@gmail.com Monday-Friday 9-7, Saturday 9-6, Sunday 12-6

Automotive

Commercial Truck Center

Oxford Phone-835-3488 Fax-835-3775

Oxford Phone-835-7505 Fax-835-7551

2001 Quintard Ave. • Anniston • 238-9505

Randy Cobb Owner

www.bamaescapes.com

Best new car dealership First place: Sunny King Toyota Sunny King Toyota was once King Motor Company, which began in 1922. In 1989, Toyota joined up with King and it became Sunny King Toyota. Despite all the hardships Toyota has had over the last year, Sunny King remains a local consumerfavorite. Sunny King Toyota is a 15-time President’s Award winner. The President’s Award is bestowed to less than 25 percent of U.S. Toyota dealers, who exemplify sales and service excellence as well as receive the top ratings in customer satisfaction. Second place: Sunny King Honda Third place: Buster Miles

Sunny King Toyota in Oxford was vote best new car dealership.

Best doctor First place: Dr. James Daniel Dr. James Daniel traveled around for his educational and professional experiences, but eventually came home to serve Anniston as an obstetrician/ gynecologist. Originally from Wedowee, Daniel graduated from Anniston High School, then from Auburn University and lastly from the University of Florida. He went on to a Pittsburgh hospital, then a Gadsden clinic

before landing at what is now the North Alabama Women’s Center with Dr. Ronald Stewart. “It’s a very happy field to practice in,” said Daniel, who said he chose the occupation of OB-GYN because “the outcomes were mostly happy outcomes, and you could do something to help be a part of their (patients’) joy.” Second place: Dr. Pat Stewart Third place: Dr. Clinton Ray

Best animal care clinic First Place: Lusk Animal Clinic Lusk Animal Clinic is a small animal hospital in Piedmont. Because of its size, the staff is able

to take more time “We try to do our to respond and talk best,” Smith said. to their customers, Second place: said Mahalah Smith, Berry Animal Clinic who has worked at Third place: Dr. Lusk for about seven years. Wayne Long

Best insurance company First place: Alfa Insurance Alfa Insurance offers every imaginable type of insurance: home, auto, farm, life, dental, business, health, church, watercraft, flood and others. It’s a one-stop shop to have all bases

covered just in case. Besides being convenient, Alfa Insurance is as affordable and stable as it has been around for decades. Second place: West Insurance Third place: USAA

Best used car dealership First place: Lenn Costner Auto Sales Lenn Costner Auto Sales boasts of its selection of more than 150 cars and a no-pressure atmosphere. The dealer has been in business since 1997 in Alexandria and is owned by Lenn Costner. Costner Auto Sales guarantees credit approval as well, which can be helpful in these challenging times. Second place: Sunny King Toyota Third place: Pee Wee Turner Motors

Best optometrist First place: Dr. David Chandler Second place: Dr. Gary Murrell Third place: Dr. Darlene Harris

Best dentist First place: Dr. Donald Norby Second place: Dr. David Gibson Third place: Dr. David Cummings

Aug. 20-26, 2010

USED CAR SUPER 40 ◆

www.bamaescapes.com

2005 TOYOTA AVALON

2008 TOYOTA SEQUOIA

2007 TOYOTA SIENNA XLE

2004 TOYOTA SIENNA

Leather SR, Loaded, Limited, Stk # C11042A

Alloys, Leather, Loaded, 100K Warranty, Stk # C11016A

Limited, Leather, Sunroof, 100k mile warranty, Stk # T11017A

$24,995

Low Miles, Beige Stk # C11006A

$12,995

2008 TOYOTA RAV-4

2008 TOYOTA SEQUOIA

2007 TOYOTA CAMRY LE

2008 MAZDA 3

Red, 100,000 Mile Warrnty,Stk # C10573A

100k Warranty, Leather, Sunroof, 20” Alloys, LOADED! Stk # C11095A

100,000 Mile Warranty, 57K miles Stk # C10604A

Alloys, Auto, Low Miles Stk # T10118A

$16,995

$19,995

$37,995

2009 TOYOTA CAMRY HYBRID 2007 TOYOTA TUNDRA CREW CAB Leather, Roof, NAV, Loaded # C11104A

$22,995

XSP Pkg, 36K Miles,Leather, 20” Wheels Stk # TK2782

$26,995

$14,995

2010 TOYOTA TACOMA 4X4

2007 TOYOTA CAMRY SE

Reg cab, AC, CD, Step bars, Alloys, Super low miles!, Stk #T10448B

Great Car, Black Stk # C11088A

$20,995

$15,995

SUNNY KING TOYOTA/SCION ON THE “NEW MOTOR MILE” IN OXFORD • WHERE THE CUSTOMER IS KING 2570 US HWY 78 EAST • OXFORD • 1-800-365-3001 VISIT OUR WEB SITE: SUNNYKINGTOYOTA.COM OR E-MAIL US: SALES@SUNNYKINGTOYOTA.COM