jaegerfurniture.com | facebook.com/jaegerfurniture
JAEGER FURNITURE
Hwy 210 East of Fergus Falls 218-739-4675
! E C A L P T S R I F t D E ozen Trea r F T a r O o F V
319989
For Voting Jaeger Furniture #1 in Otter Tail County!
WICK318548
Thank You… To All Our Loyal Customers!
319484
PAGE 2 | BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020
BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020 | PAGE 3
Results are in! Community votes select Best of Otter Tail County 2020
CONTENTS 4 8 12 14 18 22 24
Best Frozen Treat
At Daily Journal Media we have been working hard on the Best of Otter Tail County for the past month and I am proud to say the results are in! In this special edition you will see stories from winners in a handful of categories and can view the entire list of winners in all categories. There are 55 categories and each one has a win- KEN ner, second, third and run- HARTY ner-up placings. The nom- Daily Journal inations and voting was all Publisher done online through our website fergusfallsjournal.com. There was a 10 day nomination period followed by a 10 day voting period. We had nearly 2,000 nominations come in and more than 10,000 votes cast. Those are really good statistics for a first year promotion and it will grow each year. Each first place winner will receive a framed certificate they can hang in their place of
Best Law Enforcement Officer Best Bank Best of Otter Tail County Winners Best Jeweler Best Place to Buy Groceries Best Burger
business and we will also be handing out window clings to all the winners (first, second, third and runner-up). As always we are thankful for all our readers who have made this possible by nominating their favorites and casting their votes. The support for this promotion in our community is overwhelming and we are forever grateful. This special section would not be possible without our advertisers of which we cannot thank enough. Please support our advertisers by visiting their shops and places of business and please tell them you saw their ad in Best of Otter Tail County.
ABC BREWING 218-864-2739 1/4 mile west of Junction, Hwys. 78 & 210 Battle Lake, MN (formerly Battle Lake Oasis)
Thank you
Seating available inside and on patio
for voting g us one of the Best of Otter Tail County!
Thank you for voting us one of the best breweries in Otter Tail County
BEST
Meats • Seafood • Sausages • Deli Meats & Cheese • Spices & Condiments
Bringing Great Beer and Pizza to the Lakes Community!
218-998-3373 319668
www.premiermeatsandseafood.com
WICK318806
306 N. Tower Road, Fergus Falls, MN 56537
Our award-winning beer is some of the best around and we even incorporate them into our sauces on our pizzas.
Contact abcbrewing.net to order! Hours M-T-W 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Th-Sun 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
BBQ RIBS SEAFOOD STEAK
PAGE 4 | BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020
Best Frozen Treat
Uncle Eddie’s captures voters’ sweet tooth By Heather Kantrud The Daily Journal
C
reamy, cold and sugary sweet, Uncle Eddie’s is in the business of ice cream and smiles. With a passion for everyone’s favorite frozen treat and a propensity for bringing joy, it’s no wonder the downtown Fergus Falls ice cream parlor was voted “Best of Otter Tail County!” Uncle Eddie’s Ice Cream Parlor opened in the spring of this year by Kurt and Anne Frustol. “We are taking baby steps. We started simple and are adding as we go,” Kurt shared of the new, but already wildly popular parlor. Their back patio has been a popular spot to relax and enjoy a treat since opening, and indoor seating will be available within the week. The parlor is also excited about the new addition of an ice cream cart for outdoor events and is looking forward to offering SEE ICE CREAM PAGE 6
KAISAA TOPPARI | DAILY JOURNAL
BEST FROZEN TREAT: In just one summer, voters recognized Uncle Eddie’s in Fergus Falls as the place with the Best Frozen Treat.
Voted Best: Best Steak & Seafood in Ottertail County
BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020 | PAGE 5
Thank you for voting us one of the best fast food places in Otter Tail County! Home of Taco Tuesday®
OUR DRIVE THRU IS OPEN
Monday-Saturday 6:30am-10pm Download the
Taco John’s App for Mobile ordering and Curbside Pickup
Daily Journal media
Best of
OTTER TAIL
Thanks for your support during these unusual times.
County 2020
34785 Hwy 4 Frazee ,MN Phone 1-218-334-3555
Thank you!
Thank You Very Much For Voting A Center For The Arts As
THE BEST ARTS BUSINESS
dŚĂŶŬ LJŽƵ ĨŽƌ ǀŽƟŶŐ ĨŽƌ DŝŶŶĞƐŽƚĂ DŽƚŽƌ ŽŵƉĂŶLJ͊ We have the best customers in the world! We truly appreciate your vote and promise to keep running our business based on honesty, integrity and superior service.
605-645-2112 www.FergusArts.org
WICK319655
In The Best Of Otter Tail County. We Are Very Proud And Appreciate Your Support!
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320934
320614
We’re closed on Sundays for our crew.
PAGE 6 | BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020
SCOOPS: Kurt Frustol (left to right), Madelyn Veum, Annelise Frustol and Elise Pribbenow have been serving up scoops of ice cream all summer long.
ICE CREAM Continued from page 4
ice cream sundaes and floats within the next few weeks. The dream for Uncle Eddie’s began more than eight years ago. “We came from New Jersey eight years ago and even in New Jersey we had two buildings that we were looking at to open up an ice cream shop,” Kurt said. “We moved (to Fergus Falls) eight years ago and this building came up a few years ago I thought, ‘You know what, that’s kind of neat! I think that will work out!’” Without a setback, every door opened for the Frustol’s and they spent countless hours preparing the location for the grand opening. “Uncle Eddie was my father-in-law,” Kurt shared about how they chose their business name, “my in-laws moved here five, six years ago and he passed away a year later. Every time we were at family reunions we would always hear, ‘Uncle Eddie! Uncle Eddie!’ and the name was neat and he loved ice cream and fellow-
ship, so we just thought ‘Uncle Eddie’s sounds fun!’” “We had good competition,” Kurt said about being voted the best place for a frozen treat in Otter Tail County. “We’re amazed!” When asked what he thought set Uncle Eddie’s apart from their competitors, Kurt said he felt their location and environment played a big part, highlighting the outdoor patio area. He also said that they have amazing, friendly staff who are always ready to greet customers with a smile and hand out samples to help make the difficult choice between flavors just a little bit easier. Uncle Eddie’s Ice Cream Parlor is open seven days a week from 2-10 p.m. They offer both indoor and outdoor patio seating and accept both cash and credit card. In addition, they have an indoor balcony that is free to reserve, though ice cream purchase would be appreciated with the reservation. Keep an eye on Uncle Eddie’s because they are just getting started and plan to continue taking baby steps to earn more votes as “Best Place for a Frozen Treat.” VARIETY: Uncle Eddie’s has a variety of different ice cream flavors to try.
HEATHER KANTRUD | DAILY JOURNAL
HEATHER KANTRUD | DAILY JOURNAL
Free a
PEACE OF MIND.
FOR THOSE WHO MATTER MOST. Voted one of the finalist’s in the Best Insurance Agency category in the Best of Otter Tail County.
Voted
PEACE OF MIND. in Otter Tail County
THOSE WHO MATTERFOR MOST. MATTER MOST. 114 S. Union Fergus Falls, MN 56537
218-998-8888
best salon chosen by the best
affordable price for you. Let’s talk today.
Annabelle Lee, Agent
Annabelle Lee, Agent
Annabelle H Lee Annabelle H Lee Agency IncInc Agency
ale1@amfam.com ale1@amfam.com Ph: Ph: (218) 739-3977 (218) 739-3977
American Family Mutual Insurance Company, American Insurance Company, S.I.Family & its Mutual Operating Companies, S.I. & its Operating Companies, American Family Insurance Company, American Family Insurance Company, 6000 AmericanParkway, Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 6000 American Madison, WI 53783 011770 Rev.4/16 4/16 ©2016 – 9022071 011770 ––Rev. ©2016 – 9022071
320694
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Free your mind to pursue all of life’s possibilities. I can help you create Freeinsurance your mind to pursue life’s possibilities. I can help a life plan customized for the ones you love –you all create at an “Thank you all forof your continued trust and loyalty, a life insurance customized the ones love – all at an affordable price for talkyou today. I amplan humbled byyou. all for ofLet’s your votes” –Annabelle WICK319660
Best Pizza FOR THOSE WHO
Thank you
for voting us
Best Gift Shop
715
in the
hot heads
downtown | historic river inn
Best of Otter Tail County
www. www.marketfergusfalls.com The Market on Union Ave
120 S. Union Ave. • Fergus Falls, MN • 218-998-3663
The Market of Battle Lake
122 S. Lake Ave. • Battle Lake, MN • 218-864-2555
PAGE 8 | BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020
Best Law Enforcement Officer
West rates an ability to communicate very high By Brian Hansel The Daily Journal
P BRIAN HANSEL | DAILY JOURNAL
SERVE AND PROTECT: Fergus Falls Police Department Sgt. Connor West was voted “Best Law Enforcement Officer” in the Daily Journal’s Best of Otter Tail County 2020.
atrol Sgt. Connor West considers one of the best assets a police officer is the ability to communicate. Early in his law enforcement career West worked as a jailer for the Otter Tail County Sheriff ’s Office. It was daily association in that environment that taught West a lot about the value of communication. “Even though I only worked in the jail for six months I learned a lot about how to deal with people,” West said. “When we’re on the road and you have to make that arrest we have a very short time with those individuals. When you work in the jail you are with them for your whole shift. You learn to interact and talk to people that are down on their luck.” Connor was voted Otter Tail County’s top law enforcement officer in the Fergus Falls Daily Journal’s Best of Otter Tail County. “Connor is most deserving of this honor,” Chief of Public Safety Kile Bergren said. “He is an outstanding officer who cares deeply
With you for a stronger tomorrow!
BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020 | PAGE 9
about the community and is strong commitment to the involved in a number of ac- community of Fergus Falls.” tivities.” Connor and his wife, Dani, Bergren praised Connor have two children. They refor both his loyalty and ded- cently bought a camper and ication. have been making good use “Connor is always willing of it. Connor’s parents live to lend a helping hand and on one of Otter Tail County’s to do his part for citizens and great lakes and the campthe department,” Bergren er has found its way to their said. “It is not surprising he property more than once. Connor’s interests extend was voted the most popular officer in Otter Tail County to other areas as well. He is given his friendly demeanor, involved in his church and outgoing spirit and compas- as a former high school wression. I just can’t say enough tler has worked with kids in good things about the guy.” the wrestling program. ConFergus Falls Police Depart- nor also formed a bond with ment Capt. Terry Eldien be- weightlifting coach Paul Ratz lieves West’s deep ties with and has helped his former Fergus Falls have assisted teacher with his program. him in his career Like the time he spent as a “Sgt. West was raised in jailer, working in these two Fergus Falls,” Eldien said. sports programs has helped “This has not only helped West build a relationship him to personally know a with youngsters. He started large segment of the populaBRIAN HANSEL | DAILY JOURNAL tion but has instilled a very SEE OFFICER PAGE 10 DEDICATED: Sgt. Connor West was praised by many of his superior officers for his work and dedication to the Fergus Falls community.
We’re proud to serve this community each and every day. We’re proud to serve this community each and every day. Thank you for voting us the Thank in youOtter for voting the #1 Bank TailusCounty! #1 Bank in Otter Tail County!
205 West Washington Avenue | Fergus Falls 218.998.5600 | bell.bank
319680
With you for a stronger tomorrow!
27751
Member FDIC
PAGE 10 | BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020
OFFICER Continued from page 9
helping Ratz because he liked weightlifting but then something began to happen. “As time progressed I started interacting more with the kids,” Connor said. “They were coming up and asking questions. I found a lot of joy with that. In my opinion it was bridging the gap.” Connor believed it gave the kids, some of whom had known only negative interaction with the police, an opportunity to see an officer in a different way. “They were seeing an officer in a pair of gym shorts and a T-shirt working out,” Connor said. Connor has gone to local sporting events and run into some of the kids who he has helped and talked with at lo-
cal sporting events. “They will say ‘hi’ to me,” West said. “Connor acts as a great example of our agency's philosophy of building public trust and partnerships, evident by his willingness to always take part in events aimed at building community cooperation,” Eldien said. “Whether it’s Shop with a Hero, National Night Out, assisting with coaching football, presenting informational talks or just interacting with the public, Connor is always one of the first officers to volunteer to participate in community activities.” Connor has taken on many duties and challenges professionally since joining the Fergus Falls Police Department in 2005. “Connor has always given his all and taken on addi-
tional responsibilities within the agency as well,” Eldien said. “His time as a K-9 handler, SWAT team leader, field training officer and patrol supervisor, show that he is always taking on extra duties, not content or satisfied unless he is giving his best. This has made him a supervisor that is respected by his peers and looked up to by younger officers.” How does Connor feel about the honor he has been paid? “It’s very humbling,” Connor said. “I obviously didn’t expect it. I was informed by my captain. I look back at my years of working here and there are many great police officers within this county. I owe a lot to those officers DEANNA FORKEY | DAILY JOURNAL who brought me up through the ranks of policing. I owe READY TO RESPOND: Fergus Falls Police Department Sgt. Connor West listens to a call. West is very active it to everyone who has been in the community including attending sporting events, involvement with his church and volunteering at with me along the way.” community activities.
Thank you Otter Tail County
218-863-PETE (7383)
Bjorn’s Heating & Air Conditioning
for voting us one of the
Best Places to Get G Ge Groceries! oce es! Thank you for voting us
#
for Heating & Cooling in Otter Tail County.
320023
FOOD THAT LOVES YOU BACK
23064 Co Hwy 1 Fergus Falls, MN 218.739.4585
Like us on Facebook facebook.com/ meadowfarmfoodsand more
120 W. Cavour Ave • Fergus Falls
218-736-2979
www.bjornsheating.com
WICK318809
218-863-PETE (7383) 642 2nd Ave SE Pelican Rapids MN
1 PLACE
Thank you
Thank you
for your support of Pedal Fergus Falls and our work to make Fergus Falls an even better place to walk and bike! Voted
“Best Place To Buy Clothes”
for voting us one of the best gift shops in Otter Tail County.
Thank you!
Our staff strives hard to bring the best products and provide the best service to our patrons. Stop in soon to see what Lundeen’s can do for you. LL ARRIVALS! Website: www.pedalff.org Email: info@pedalff.org
215 W Lincoln Ave | Fergus Falls | 218-998-2225
WICK319529
319157
MANY NEW FA
Follow us on
Daily Journal media
Best of
OTTER TAIL
Heating & Cooling
County
3209 E. Fir Ave., Fergus Falls, MN 56537
2020
Call Now - (218) 736-4228
We thank our staff for their great customer service which makes us one of the best.
Thank you for voting us a finalist in the Best Real Estate Agency category for the Best of Otter Tail County.
We are honored to be chosen as a finalist in the
We have a great selection of produce, meats, deli, bakery, and specialty items.
Best Place for Heating and Cooling and the Best Plumber
We are third generation family owned and operated. We encourage others to visit Pelican Rapids and Larry’s, check us out! Thank you, Mark & Brittany Dokken
SAME GREAT PEOPLE, SAME GREAT SERVICE
ONE GREAT TEAM
Thank you for voting for us.
WICK319250
(218) 863-5750 Hwy 59 South, Pelican Rapids
319696
category!
1811 E. Fir Avenue, Fergus Falls, MN 56537
218-739-4460
WICK319705
We thank our customers for their support, encouragement, and recommendations.
PAGE 12 | BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020
Best Bank
Bell Bank in Fergus Falls rates high with voters By Brian Hansel The Daily Journal
J
eff Stanislawski has found that over the past 13 years working for Bell State Bank in Fergus Falls fits him like a glove. “The company is a great company to work for,” Stanislawski said. “I am going on my 14th year and I’ve always said this, the company has values that align with my personal values and when you have that alignment it’s a good fit.” He said a former employee called the bank “a family” and said that returning to work after a vacation reminded her of coming home.
BRIAN HANSEL | DAILY JOURNAL
BANKING: With plenty of options, voters recognized Bell State Bank in Fergus Falls as the “Best Bank in Otter Tail County.”
BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020 | PAGE 13
“For a period of time we closed the lobby, the drive-thru was open but we did close the lobby.” Stanislawski said. “I think it is like every other business with social distancing, wearing masks, being cognizant about being careful. I am assuming that we do a lot of things just like all the other businesses around Fergus — being cautious and taking the proper steps.” Along with the other 15 employees of Bell’s local branch bank Stanislawski has strong ties to the community. For the last three years he has served as chairman of the Fergus Falls Planning Commission. “If we’re going to live in the community I think it’s pretty important to get involved in the community,” he said. Bell built their Fergus Falls branch in 2007 and moved into their present facility at the corner SEE BANK PAGE 16
TOP-NOTCH TELLERS: Bell Bank tellers Lois Rosin, left, and Ashley Hoff carry out assigned tasks.
We appreciate the confidence you have placed in our firm by being nominated and voted one of the
WE WANT TO THANK ALL OF OUR CUSTOMERS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
Best Insurance Agency’s in the Best of Otter Tail County!
30 PLUS
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
SERVING FERGUS FALLS AND SURROUNDING AREAS
LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED
WICK319524
920 Pebble Lake Road, Fergus Falls, MN 218.739.3316 • 800.279.5671
BRIAN HANSEL | DAILY JOURNAL
218.531.1321
OWNERS MATT LARSON AND BEN FORMO
Service • New Construction • Remodel
319486
The president of the Fergus Falls branch took it as a great compliment when he found Bell was voted the “Best Bank” by voters in the Daily Journal’s Best of Otter Tail County. Bell also has branch banks in Moorhead and Pelican Rapids. While most of the bank’s business comes from Fergus Falls and the surrounding area, Bell reaches customers in more far-flung locations. “With today’s technology you know business can be done almost anywhere,” Stanislawski said of the competitive banking industry. “It’s certainly a huge honor,” Stanislawski said. “To have that kind of recognition speaks highly of the staff at the bank and what they do every day for our customers.” Like many other Fergus Falls businesses the COVID-19 pandemic has presented great challenges at the bank.
PAGE 14 | BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020
BEST BAR Winner (tie) Winner (tie) Second Place Third Place Runner Up BEST BBQ RIBS Winner Second Place Third Place Runner Up (tie) Runner Up (tie)
American Legion Mabel Murphy’s Rusty Nail Fergus Brewing Company Socials Bar & Grill American Legion Premier Meats & Seafood Service Food Market Elmos Pelican Rapids The Viking Cafe
BEST BREAKFAST Winner The Viking Cafe Second Place The Fabled Farmer Third Place (tie) Betty’s Pantry Restaurant & Catering Third Place (tie) Big Chief Truck/Auto Plaza Runner Up Shoreline Restaurant Bar and Bowl BEST BREWERY Winner Outstate Brewing Company Second Place Fergus Brewing Company Third Place Ashby Brewing Company Runner Up Union Pizza & Brewing Co. BEST COFFEE Winner Second Place Third Place Runner Up
Perks Coffee & Tea Cally’s Cafe & Coffee Stumbeano’s Coffee Roasters The Viking Cafe
BEST ETHNIC FOOD Winner Fiesta Brava Second Place Don Pablo’s Mexican Family Restaurant Third Place Hunan Spring Buffet Runner Up Taqueria Escobar
BEST FAST FOOD Winner Dairyland Second Place Taco John’s Third Place Papacitos Burritos Fergus Falls Runner Up Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
BEST BARBER SHOP Winner Handcrafted Barber Studio Second Place 715 Hot Heads Third Place Family Hair Clinic Runner Up Justin’s Barber Shop
BEST HAMBURGER Winner Rusty Nail Second Place Socials Bar & Grill Third Place Ye Olde School House Bar Runner Up Northern Aire Bowling Lanes
BEST ELECTRICIAN Winner Otter Electric, LLC Second Place Cossette Electric Third Place Premier Electric Inc Runner Up Lil Bob’s Electric
BEST PIZZA Winner Second Place Third Place Runner Up
Union Pizza & Brewing Co. Zorbaz Battle Lake Boathouse Casey’s
BEST GENERAL CONTRACTOR Winner Dan Johnson Construction Second Place Comstock Construction Third Place Newman Construction Services Runner Up Bladow Construction
BEST PLACE FOR Winner Second Place Third Place Runner Up
A FROZEN TREAT Uncle Eddie’s Ice Cream Granny’s Pantry Dairy Queen Grill & Chill Dairyland
BEST GIFT SHOP Winner Second Place Third Place Runner Up
BEST SEAFOOD Winner Second Place Third Place Runner Up
Spanky’s Stone Hearth Premier Meats & Seafood Stub’s Dining & Saloon Fish Factor 108
BEST STEAK Winner Second Place Third Place Runner Up
Spanky’s Stone Hearth Stub’s Dining & Saloon SteVelly’s Steak Premier Meats & Seafood
BEST ARTS BUSINESS Winner A Center for the Arts Second Place The Potter Daughter Gift Shop Third Place Kaddatz Galleries Runner Up Art of the Lakes BEST AUTO BODY SHOP Winner Minnesota Motor Company Second Place Beyer Body Shop Third Place Quality Toyota Runner Up Pelican Pete Body Shop & Towing Inc. BEST AUTO DEALERSHIP Winner Minnesota Motor Company Second Place Quality Toyota Third Place Nelson Ford Runner Up College Way Auto Sales & Service BEST BANK/CREDIT UNION Winner Bell Bank Second Place Security State Bank Third Place Gate City Bank Runner Up Farmers State Bank
The Market Victor Lundeen Company Periwinkle Marketplace Krupke’s Konsignments
BEST GRAIN ELEVATOR Winner Farmers Elevator Co Second Place CHS Third Place Farmer’s Feed Mill BEST HARDWARE STORE Winner Fergus Home & Hardware Second Place The Home Depot Third Place Fleet Farm Runner Up Sears Hometown Store BEST IMPLEMENT DEALER Winner RDO Equipment Co. Second Place Titan Machinery Third Place Ziegler Runner Up Bobcat of Otter Tail County BEST INSURANCE AGENCY Winner Security Insurance Inc Second Place Annabelle H Lee Agency Inc American Family Insurance Third Place AMP Insurance Runner Up Mark Rodning - State Farm Insurance Agent BEST JEWELRY STORE Winner Mauk Jewelers Second Place Kraning Jewelry Third Place TA Gould Jeweler BEST LEGAL FIRM Winner Pemberton Law Firm Second Place Krekelberg Law Firm Third Place Cline Jensen P.A. Runner Up Nycklemoe & Ellig, P.A.
BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020 | PAGE 15
BEST MARINE STORE Winner Extreme Marine Second Place Frontier Marine & Power Sports Third Place J & K Marine Runner Up Ray’s Sport & Marine BEST PLACE FOR Winner Second Place Third Place Runner Up
CARPET AND FLOORING Seland’s Abbey Flooring Center Fergus Home & Hardware The Home Depot Pro Floor & Tile
BEST PLACE FOR HEATING AND COOLING Winner Bjorn’s Heating & Air Conditioning Second Place John’s Heating & Air Conditioning Third Place Ugstad’s Plumbing, Heating and Cooling Runner Up All Seasons Heating and Air Conditioning LLC BEST PLACE TO BUY FURNITURE Winner Jaeger Furniture Second Place Olson’s Furniture Third Place BC Woodshop Runner Up Slumberland Furniture BEST PLACE TO BUY GROCERIES Winner Service Food Market Second Place ALDI Third Place Larry’s Super Market of Pelican Rapids Runner Up Meadow Farm Foods BEST PLACE TO FILL YOUR TANK Winner Holiday Station Stores Second Place M & H Gas Station Third Place Lakeway Express Runner Up Casey’s
BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY Winner Keller Williams Second Place Century 21 Vista Third Place Lakes Family Real Estate/ Otter Tail Real Estate Runner Up Mohagen Real Estate Inc BEST RESORT Winner Second Place Third Place Runner Up
Holly’s Resort East Silent Lake Resort Otter Tail Beach Resort Barky’s Resort
BEST SALON Winner Second Place Third Place Runner Up
715 Hot Heads Salon Eclips Attitudes For Hair Inc Salon Tru & Day Spa
BEST SPORTING Winner Second Place Third Place
GOODS STORE Dunham’s Sports Fleet Farm JK Sports
BEST STORE FOR Winner Second Place Third Place Runner Up
AUTO PARTS NAPA Auto Parts Farnam’s Genuine Parts Fleet Farm O’Reilly Auto Parts Minnesota Motor Company
BEST TRUCKING COMPANY Winner Golden Ring Trucking BEST CHIROPRACTOR Winner Fergus Falls Chiropractic Second Place Vistad Chiropractic Third Place Smith Family Chiropractic Runner Up Tysdal Chiropractic
BEST PLACE TO GET TIRES Winner Fergus Goodyear Second Place Otter Tail Tire Third Place Fleet Farm Runner Up Minnesota Motor Company
BEST DENTIST Winner Second Place Third Place Runner Up
LifeSmiles Dental Northern Lakes Dental & Implant Center Prairie’s Edge Dental Swelstad Orthodontics
BEST PLACE TO SHOP FOR APPLIANCEs Winner Sears Hometown Store Second Place Fergus Home & Hardware Third Place The Home Depot Runner Up Pine Plaza Appliances
BEST DOCTOR Winner (tie) Winner (tie) Third Place Runner Up
Angela Folstad, MD Mark Vukonich, MD Michael Norgard, MD Joshua Overgaard, MD
BEST PLACE TO SHOP FOR CLOTHES Winner The Bric Second Place Maurices Third Place Dandelion & Burdock Runner Up HD Boutique
BEST EYE CARE CLINIC Winner InVision Eye Care Second Place Lake Region Healthcare/ 20-20 Optical Third Place Fergus Falls Optometric Center Ltd Runner Up Midwest Vision Centers
BEST PLUMBER Winner Second Place Third Place Runner Up
Anytime Plumbing Plumbers inc Ugstad’s Plumbing and Heating Roehl’s Plumbing
BEST HOSPITAL/URGENT CARE Winner Lake Region Healthcare Second Place Perham Health Third Place Tri-County Health Care BEST IN HOME HEALTH CARE Winner LB Homes Second Place New Dimensions Home Health Care Third Place Perham Living Home Care Runner Up Synstelien Community Services BEST PLACE FOR MENTAL HEALTH CARE Winner Lakeland Mental Health Center Second Place Bridgeway at Lake Region Healthcare Third Place Solutions Behavioral Healthcare Professionals Runner Up Fergus Falls Family Counseling BEST VETERINARIAN Winner Companion Animal Hospital Second Place Fergus Falls Animal Care Clinic Third Place Lakes Veterinary Hospital Runner Up Maplewood Veterinary & Animal Hospital BEST COMMUNITY SERVICE ORGANIZATION Winner Dough for Joe Second Place Habitat for Humanity Third Place Pedal Fergus Falls Runner Up Someplace Safe BEST ELECTED OFFICIAL Winner Ben Schierer Second Place Anthony Hicks Third Place Barry Fitzgibbons Runner Up Bud Nornes BEST FIRE FIGHTER Winner Ryan Muchow Second Place Cody Lehmann Third Place Korey Fry Runner Up Dean Anderson BEST LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER Winner Connor West Second Place Joey Geizler Third Place Kile Bergren Runner Up Kevin Sonstebo BEST PLACE TO WORK Winner Lakes Country Service Cooperative Second Place InVision Eye Care Third Place Otter Tail Power Company Runner Up City of Fergus Falls
PAGE 16 | BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020
HARDWARE | APPLIANCES & SERVICE | FLOORING CABINETS | FURNITURE | MATTRESSES | BLINDS | SKATE SHOP
Thanks for voting us #1 FLOORING
APPLIANCES
WICK318018
HARDWARE
Thank you for shopping our locally owned and operated business. www.fergushomeandhardware.com | 1005 N. Tower Toad Fergus Falls, MN | 218.998.5070
Voted Number #1
Grocery Store Fresh, healthy food choices now available at the Deli!
BRIAN HANSEL | DAILY JOURNAL
TO THE TOP: The interior of Bell Bank has a vaulted ceiling. The present bank location on Washington Avenue opened in 2010.
BANK
WIC CK319690
Continued from page 13
321 W. Lincoln • Fergus Falls, MN 56537
218-9 998-9 9000
servicefoodmarket@gmail.com www.serviccefood.com
Locally owned and operated since 1938
of Washington Avenue and Court Street in 2010. So why is Bell the best? Stanislawski said he could think of many reasons from his own point of view but added, “It’s probably more important what the customer thinks in terms of us. From my perspective I think we have
staff that are caring and when somebody walks in the bank it’s a tone that’s set immediately that gives a first impression of who we are. I think the people who work here do a great job every day when they are at work and when they are out in the community. We take pride in trying to do a good job for everybody. That’s kind of like what we base our day-to-day work
life on.” Stanislawski worked in other communities before coming to Fergus Falls and he said what he has found here is a caring and helpful city. The Bell State Bank president considers the west-central Minnesota community “amazing” for the way its citizens “step up to the plate” in many different ways when the situation calls for it.
320209
A Big thank you!
To our customers who voted us the Best of Otter Tail County our Drivers are the Best in the Business!
Voted the WINNER of the
Best Place to Work
category y in the e Be est of Otter Tail County. Member Driven, Member Strong. Thank You! 1001 E. Mount Faith, Fergus Falls, MN 56537
www.lcsc.org
WICK319650
218-739-3273
Best Jeweler
PAGE 18 | BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020
Mauk Jewelers: Diamond of Otter Tail County By Heather Kantrud The Daily Journal
F
or all of the glitz and glimmer, shine and shimmer, check out Mauk Jewelers of Fergus Falls, voted “Best Jeweler in Otter Tail County.” When asked what his initial reaction was to the voting results, Jeff Mauch, owner of Mauk Jewelers, lit up. “We were excited! We didn’t even know we were nominated! We were ecstatic, it is quite an honor,” Jeff said. Mauk Jewelers was founded in 1956 by Jeff ’s father, Don. While the jeweler has always been in the same location, they expanded in 1969, doubling the size of their store. Jeff Mauch started in 1976, 10 years prior to Don and Helen
HEATHER KANTRUD | DAILY JOURNAL
GLIMMER: Mauk Jewelers in Fergus Falls received voters’ praise as the Best Jeweler in Otter Tail County.
Winner H
We’re grateful
for your nominations and votes of confidence in the Best of OTC awards. We are honored to serve and care for our community, especially during this time.
H BEST HOSPITAL
We are proud of the Hospital, Eye Clinic & 20/20 Optical, and Bridgeway Behavioral Health teams and of the dedicated doctors you have recognized and we thank them for their exemplary care. To all of our staff members, thank you for continually going above & beyond because you love what you do and the people you serve. You are all winners in our book.
BEST EYE CARE CLINIC 20/20 Optical - Nominated
Lake Region Healthcare - WINNER
BEST PLACE FOR MENTAL HEALTH CARE
BEST DOCTORS
Bridgeway Behavioral Health Center Nominated
H Dr. Angela Folstad WINNER
Dr. Mark Vukonich
Dr. Michael Norgard
Dr. Joshua Overgaard
Nominated
Nominated
Nominated
BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020 | PAGE 19
we’re able to offer the area with quality merchandise.” As a part of two major buying groups, Mauk Jewelers has a lot of buying power, having access to approximately 2,000 wholesalers and diamond dealers in order to ensure their stones are of the highest quality. “We have (sales) people who come here from all over the world because they like us,” Jodi added. “We see things that most salespeople on the road don’t handle. We are pretty honored to have them come see us small-town jewelers in Fergus Falls when they could go anywhere in the big cities, and they choose to come and let us choose from their beautiful jewelry,” Jeff continued, expressing genuine SEE JEWELER PAGE 20
HEATHER KANTRUD | DAILY JOURNAL
SPARKLING BUSINESS: Jodi Mauch (left to right), Jeff Mauch and Jeremy Danielson provide excellent customer service for community members looking for something that sparkles.
OTTER TAIL COUNTY’S
Besstt Breakfast of O Ottter Tail County
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BEST COFFEE Daily Journal media
Best of
OTTER TAIL County 2020
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE BEST AUTO BODY SHOPS IN OTTER TAIL COUNTY
24 Hour Towing
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retiring in 1986. Since, Jeff has been joined by Jeremy Danielson and his daughter, Jodi, to form what they like to call “The Three J’s.” From sales to in-store repair work to custom designing, Mauk Jewelers offers service that they feel sets them apart from competitors. “We are a very quality-oriented company,” Jeff said. “We hand select all of our merchandise. Us, as a team, we go through and pick out all of our diamonds that we put in the store. We don’t just order things in. All our genuine colored stones, all of our pearls, everything is hand selected. We do string up our own pearls in the store. We set up our own diamonds.” Mauch explained the process, “We all work very hard and we’re proud of what
2501 Pebble Lake Road • Fergus Falls, MN 56537 • Follow us on Facebook
Lil Bob’ s Electric, Inc. Robert Krause Fergus Falls, MN
Email: lilbobselectric@yahoo.com
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203 W Lincoln Fergus Falls MN • 218-736-6660
218.998.2661 218.770.0673 (cell)
PAGE 20 | BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020 HEATHER KANTRUD | DAILY JOURNAL
JEWELER Continued from page 19
DOWNTOWN GEM: Mauk Jewelers is located at 103 W. Lincoln Ave., in Fergus Falls. The Jeweler was voted Best Jeweler in the Daily Journal’s Best of Otter Tail County 2020.
gratitude for the opportunities they are provided to serve the Fergus Falls area. “We have something for everybody. We treat everybody the same and we are here to help everybody. We’re here to make it comfortable in an easy and casual environment, but really offer really upscale items that you are going to have a hard time finding anywhere else,” Jodi explained. With price points beginning at $20, it’s easy to find a beautiful, quality piece to fit any budget. Mauk Jewelers is open on weekdays from 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m., with extended hours during the holiday season. Located in downtown Fergus Falls, Mauk Jewelers is ready to assist anyone in finding, repairing, or creating their perfect piece of jewelry.
FARMERS ELEVATOR CO Winner of the Best Grain Elevator category
ner Brent Lanoue e own
218-998-4328 • HWY. 210 E.,1110 19TH ST. N. FERGUS FALLS, MN 56537 • EXTREMEMARINE@PRTEL.COM
Finalist in the Best Grain Elevator category in the Best of Otter Tail County.
225 E Hampden Ave. Fergus Falls, MN • 218-736-3301
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FARMERS FEED MILL
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We wish to thank you for voting us the Winner of the Best Marine Store category in the Best of Otter Tail County!
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Thank you for voting us One of the
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Otter Tail County.
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE BEST IN HOME HEALTH CARE. WICK318808
Best Jewelry Stores in
u o y k n a h T
BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020 | PAGE 21
Voted The Best Jewelry Store in Otter Tail County!
for voting us the #1 Best Insurance Agencyy in Otter Tail County!
Since 1956
in Downtown Fergus Falls Daily Journal media
Best of
OTTER TAIL County
Daily Journal media
Best of
OTTER TAIL County 2020
Phone: 1-218-736-3958 www.maukjewelers.com
Fergus Falls • 218-736-2222 • www.securityinsurancemn.com
Thank you
for voting us the Winner for the Best Hamburger and Second Place in the Best Bar category. 123 Lake Ave South, Battle Lake, MN
218-864-2600
Open Daily 11:00-10:00 Sun-Thurs and 11:00-11:00 Fri & Sat
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MAUK JEWLERS 103 W LINCOLN AVE. FERGUS FALLS, MN 56537
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2020
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1
#
Chiropractor in Otter Tail County
JOHANNA ARMSTRONG | DAILY JOURNAL
MORE THAN SERVICE: Avery Votava helps bag groceries at Service Food Market. Kevin King, vice president, says the store’s employees are what make the market special.
Best Place to Buy Groceries
Thank you
to our wonderful staff, Rhiannon and Traci, and thank you to our patients.
Service Food serves up their best
We appreciate you!
By Johanna Armstrong The Daily Journal
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Dr. Jill Iverson D.C.
1304 West Lincoln Ave, Fergus Falls, MN 56537
www.fergusfallschiropractic.com
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218-998-2881
ervice Food Market has been a staple of Fergus Falls since it opened in 1938, so it’s no surprise that it was voted the best place to shop for groceries by The Daily Journal readers in Best of Ottertail County 2020. “What makes Service Food exceptional is the employees and their friendly service, their dedication to the customers,” says Kevin
King, vice president of Service Food Market. “It really comes down to the employees that are here that have been here a long time that are active in the community, Service Food and its employees give back to the community.” It’s hard to get involved in the Otter Tail County community without seeing Service Food Market come up. They’re one of the only locations in the area that offers charging for electric vehicles in their parking lot
BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020 | PAGE 23 Daily Journal media
Voted Best Place to shop for Appliances
Best of
OTTER TAIL County 2020
Locally owned and operated by Keith & Bernadette Erickson 319699
Fe r g u s Fa l l s
JOHANNA ARMSTRONG | DAILY JOURNAL
treats. If you're looking for something special, just ask. They might be able to get it for you. Top notch and committed to the community!” said Lisa Workman, president of the Fergus Falls Area
Chamber of Commerce, in a review for the store on their Facebook page. The family-owned and operated grocery store is open every day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
At Synstelien Community Services we believe every person is valuable regardless of ability or resources and needs caring relationships. Living out our core values of caring, dignity, teamwork, responsibility, and knowledge we provide caring therapeutic treatment and daily living support for people with disabilities in the community of Fergus Falls.
Thank you for voting us one of the finalists in the Best of Home Health Care category. PROUDLY INVOLVED IN OUR COMMUNITY
Synstelien Community Services (SCS)
218-736-7322 • scslife.com
Caring, Dignity, Teamwork, Responsibility, Knowledge
Stephen F. Rufer
Kristi A. Hastings
Robert W. Bigwood
Michael T. Rengel
Katrina I. Wass
Nicholas J. Heydt
Chad R. Felstul
Samuel S. Rufer
Joshua M. Heggem
Charles A. Seuntjens
Thank You for voting us
THE BEST Thank You for voting us LEGAL FIRM
THE BEST LEGAL FIRM in Otter Tail County! in the Best of Otter Tail County! Banking Commercial Litigation Probate Personal Injury
Construction Law Corporate Business Law Employment Law Real Estate
Estate Planning Wills/Trusts Family Law Health Care Law
Charles M. Good Julie A. Haseman Paul R. Johnson Matthew S. Van Bruggen Sarah C. Duffy
Marc W. Sugden
Ryan D. Fullerton Kendra E. Olson Nicole J. Tabbut Curtis D. Ripley Abbie J. Thurmes Nicholas T. Adams
FERGUS FALLS ALEXANDRIA DETROIT LAKES WADENA
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HERE’S YOUR RECEIPT: Bob Johnson gives a receipt to a customer. Service Food has been an integral part of Fergus Falls and Otter Tail County.
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sides the Fergus Falls Public Library and owner Gary Spies was instrumental in seeing the project through. Service Food Market also helped fund the library renewal project for the new Fergus Falls Public Library building, helped fund Otter Cove Children’s Museum as well as the Lake Region Healthcare Cancer Care & Research Center and they have worked closely with United Way of Otter Tail and Wadena Counties. While King insists it’s the employees that make Service Food special, the grocery store also offers weekly specials and boasts a committed customer base. “The team here makes grocery shopping enjoyable. They have a wide variety, excellent fresh produce and high quality meat. The deli offers healthy options and unique salads and cheese. The bakery has amazing buns and tempting
PAGE 24 | BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020
Best Burger
Unique burgers make Rusty Nail the best By Johanna Armstrong The Daily Journal
T
he best place to get a burger in Otter Tail County is the Rusty Nail in Battle Lake, according to Fergus Falls Daily Journal readers. Owners Zac and Brianna Lewis took over the restaurant on Jan. 1 this year and it’s clear they’re maintaining the legacy they’ve inherited, an important part of which is the variety of burgers they offer. “We have a big burger menu that has lots of different flavors from a sweet, peanut butter jelly burger, or the BBQ bacon with barbecue sauce, to a spicy one with the Fireball burger, a really savory one with the Islander,” Zac says. The Fireball burger was one Zac added to the lineup himself recently. “That Fireball burger was added while we were doing takeout only, since I was in the kitchen all day long and there was
SEE ICE CREAM PAGE 6
JOHANNA ARMSTRONG | DAILY JOURNAL
BEST BURGER: Rusty Nail owners Zac and Brianna Lewis hold up their signature Fireball burger, one of the burgers that earned Rusty Nail the “Best Burger” award.
BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020 | PAGE 25
a lot of down time in between the lunch and dinner rush, so I’d fiddle around with different recipes and it became the Spicy Fireball burger,” he says. There are currently eight signature burgers on the menu. If you’re visiting for the first time, though, Zac recommends trying some of the classics: “Our most popular burger is the BBQ bacon burger, it’s a really safe one to try,” he says. “The Hangover burger with fried egg and maple syrup is another really popular one that we recommend people try first, too.” Visitors can also build their own burgers, with lots of cheese and veggie options, as well as extras like bacon, fried egg, extra patty, avocado and more. The charbroiled burgers, which are made from a third-pound of fresh ground chuck, can also be replaced with a chicken breast. There’s also a black bean burger, topped with avocado cream and alfalfa sprouts on a gluten-free bun. All burgers come with hand-cut fries or chips which are made in-house daily, or a soup that is also made in-house daily. In addition to burgers, the Rusty Nail offers salads, like classic Caesar and wedge, as well as beet salad and “bahn mi,” made with chicken breast, Asian slaw, cucumbers, jalapenos, cilantro, peanut vinaigrette and Sriracha ranch. There’s also sandwiches, from Philly cheesesteaks to a sunfish po’ boy, turkey and brie to pork fajita wraps. They also serve cocktails and have local beers on tap, like Bent Paddle Brewing Co. from Duluth and Fargo Brewing Company. A dessert menu that includes deep-fried Oreos, deep-fried cheesecake and root beer float are a great way to finish any meal.
HOT OFF THE GRILL: One of the many burgers the Rusty Nail in Battle Lake has to offer.
JOHANNA ARMSTRONG | DAILY JOURNAL
LMHC is here to
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foor a bet for beettttteeerr tom toom mooorrrrrroooww
Nycklemoe & Ellig, P.A.
Thank you
LMHC is here to assist you with your mental health needs through these times. Don’t wait to get help, call today. (218) 736-6987. For more information about LMHC and its services visit www.lmhc.org
218-736-5673 • www.nycklemoelaw.com
LAKELAND MENTAL HEALTH CENTER
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Washington Professional Building 106 E. Washington Ave. Fergus Falls, MN 56537
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for voting us one of the finalists in the Best Legal Firm category to the Best of OT County.
Thank you for voting us #1 Real Estate Agency in Otter Tail County!
Resourceful. Reliable. Resilient. We appreciate all our employees and the important work they do to continue to safely power life with reliable, affordable electricity.
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225 W Cavour Fergus Falls, MN 56537 218-998-4344 Each office is independently owned and operated
Thank you for voting us a finalist in the Best Place to Fill Your Tank category in the Best of Otter Tail County.
We love what we do, because we love caring for You!
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Carwash • Gas • Pizza Chicken • Bait & More! 218-736-7977 1810 E. Fir Avenue, Fergus Falls, MN
Tara A Kempfer, OD
Randall J Kempfer, OD
David J Hilber, OD
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The doctors of InVision have earned the love and respect of their patients by giving each and every one the quality time they deserve. Thank you for awarding us with Best Eye Care in Otter Tail County!
Denise M Hanson, OD
810 North Baird, • Fergu gus u Falls, MN 56537 • 218.736.5609 • ffvision.com
BEST OF OTTER TAIL COUNTY 2020 | PAGE 27
DON’T BUY YOUR TIRES ONLINE! NOT ONLY DO WE MATCH PRICES, WE TAKE CARE OF THE PAPERWORK ON YOUR REBATES FOR YOU!
STAY WITH THE PEOPLE WHO If you have the original receipt to any brand of tires, it doesn’t matter where you bought them, We can guarantee the mileage warranty, and even 50% Road Hazzard at Fergus Goodyear. We don’t only rotate tires for FREE, we also rebalance if needed for FREE. OFFERS AVAILABLE AT:
FERGUS GOODYEAR #1 in Value… #1 in Price!
222 W. Cavour, Fergus Falls • 218-739-2261 City Center Mall - 1 block north of Main Street
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Thank You for Voting Us #1 Place To Get Tires In Otter Tail County!
Voted Best
DENTIST in Otter Tail County
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