Best of Portage County

BEST 2011 PORTAGE COUNTY’S

The results are in for the Stevens Point Journal’s second annual Portage County’s Best reader survey. Find out which tavern has the best bartender, where to go for the best pizza and more.

OCTOBER 27, 2011

2 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

INSIDE

2011 Portage County’s Best Hamburger ............................... 3 Mexican food ........................... 3 Fish fry ...................................... 4 Breakfast .................................. 4 Pizza.......................................... 5 Lunch ........................................ 6 Steak ......................................... 6 Asian cuisine............................. 7 9 Coffee ....................................... 8 Local brew ................................ 8 Bartender ................................. 9 Cheap date ............................. 10 Romantic date........................ 10 Sports bar ............................... 11 Live music ............................... 12

Karaoke .............................................. 12 Local band .......................................... 13 Automotive service............................ 15 Customer service................................ 16 Deals ................................................... 16 Shopping experience......................... 17 12 Day spa ........................................................................... 18 Hair salon ............................... 18 Realtor .................................... 18 Car dealer............................... 19 Workout spot......................... 20 Local festival........................... 21 Jeweler ................................... 22 Photographer......................... 22 Hidden treasure ..................... 24

6

WI-5001398244

18

WI-5001392673

*“Best Dealership in Portage county” for the 2nd consecutive year, based on an independant poll by the Stevens Point Journal - 2011

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

3

BEST HAMBURGER

BEST MEXICAN FOOD

Hilltop Pub & Grill

El Mezcal

Harvey Hayden, left, of Custer enjoys a meal at Hilltop Pub & Grill with his wife, Jean, back, and daughter, Liz. (B.C. KOWALSKI/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

Bradley Anderson of Stevens Point enjoys lunch with Michelle Hofmeister of Stevens Point at El Mezcal. (BRIAN KOWALSKI/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

H

W

ABOUT HILLTOP illtop Pub & Grill Owner Mike Mitchell says it isn’t easy to put into words PUB & GRILL exactly what makes the pub’s burgers Address: 4901 Main St., so good.

Stevens Point Fortunately, his customers don’t have that probContact: 715-341-3037; lem. www.hilltoppubandgrill.

It’s those customers who’ve helped vote Hilltop com Pub & Grill the best place for a hamburger in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best TOP 3 reader survey for the second straight year.

2. Culver’s “It’s just the taste,” said Liz Hayden, who was 3. Guu’s on Main eating at the restaurant recently with her parents, Harvey and Jean Hayden of Custer. “It’s not greasy like other places.”

Jean Hayden said the pub is a popular place to take out-of-town guests because of its atmosphere and great food.

“They’ve got a variety of different kinds,” Harvey Hayden said.

It’s hard not to notice the unique atmosphere of the pub — customers entering the restaurant must walk right into a giant aging barrel with doors on either side. Patrons also will find old relics such as an antique weight-guessing machine. The cost? A penny.

A good burger is only as good as the beer that comes along with it — and Hilltop has about 20 on tap, including many local varieties to wash down that tasty burger.

ABOUT hen it comes to restaurants that serve Mexican food, sometimes there can be EL MEZCAL too many choices.

Address: 5720 Windy For Bradley Anderson and Michelle Drive, Stevens Point Hofmeister, both of Stevens Point, the choice is Contact: 715-342-1521 much easier.

Loyal customers like Anderson and Hofmeister TOP 3 are part of the reason El Mezcal was voted best place for Mexican food in the Stevens Point 2. Ranchito Perez Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey.

3. Taco Bell Anderson and Hofmeister often meet for lunch at the restaurant off Highway 10 on Stevens Point’s east side. Both said the clean, friendly atmosphere keeps them coming back.

“It’s good food and fast service,” Anderson said.

Both are local business owners and like to talk about business during lunch, and El Mezcal provides a relaxing atmosphere.

The restaurant is an ideal place for lunch, owner Adolfo Melendez said, because of the friendly service and speed.

“We’re twice as fast as other places,” Melendez said. “As soon as you order, you get your food in about seven to eight minutes.”

But that doesn’t affect the quality, Melendez said. All of the food is made from scratch.

Melendez said he is about to open another restaurant in Waupaca, under the name D-Fuego — fuego means fire in Spanish.

— By B.C. Kowalski, Journal staff

— By B.C. Kowalski, Journal staff

4 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

BEST FISH FRY

BEST PLACE FOR BREAKFAST

Cory Woytasik of Stevens Point, right, enjoys an afternoon fish fry with his parents, Syl and Chris Woytasik, at Hilltop Pub & Grill. (B.C. KOWALSKI/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

Mike and Sue Wojtalewicz of Plover and their granddaughter, Isla Wojtalewicz of Waupaca, have breakfast at The Wooden Chair in downtown Stevens Point. (DOUG

Hilltop Pub & Grill

T

The Wooden Chair

WOJCIK/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

he Friday night fish fry is a tradition that dates back almost a century, and restaurants in any Wisconsin town will be packed on the last day of the work-

ABOUT HILLTOP PUB & GRILL Address: 4901 Main St.,

week.

Stevens Point The fish fry was so popular at Hilltop Pub Contact: 715-341-3037; & Grill, however, that the owners put it on the www.hilltoppubandgrill. menu every day. com That’s likely part of the reason readers voted Hilltop Pub & Grill the best place for a fish fry TOP 3 in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s 2. Final Score Best reader survey for the second year in a row.

3. Guu’s on Main Hilltop started as a bar but now is known as a popular restaurant in the Stevens Point area.

Owner Mike Mitchell said he started serving fish frys on Fridays during Lent, but it proved so popular that he expanded it to all Fridays and, eventually, everyday.

Mitchell said the light beer batter is what makes the fish so popular; the restaurant’s recipe hasn’t changed in 28 years.

And his customers agree.

Cory Woytasik of Stevens Point joined his parents, Chris and Syl Woytasik, recently for a fish fry during lunch.

“The breading is good, the flavor is good, and they get it out to you fast,” Cory Woytasik said.

Chris and Syl said they’ve been going to Hilltop since it opened, and Cory Woytasik said he’s been going his whole life.

“This is one of the places on our family’s restaurant stops,” he said.

While it offers fish frys throughout the week, employees say Friday night still is the most popular for fish frys, with some patrons waiting 45 minutes to an hour to get their beloved fish.

— By B.C. Kowalski, Journal staff

T

he smell of fresh brewed coffee and sizABOUT THE zling bacon, and the sounds of plates and WOODEN CHAIR bowls clinking combined with the low hum of great conversation at every table Address: 1059 Main St., can only mean one thing: breakfast. And many Stevens Point. people in Portage County choose to start their day Contact: 715-341-1133 by enjoying that first meal at The Wooden Chair.

For the second year in a row, the downtown TOP 3 Stevens Point restaurant was voted the best 2. Olympia Family place for breakfast in the Stevens Point Journal’s Restaurant Portage County’s Best reader survey.

3.

South Point Restaurant “If I didn’t have good workers, I couldn’t be where I am,” said owner and manager Carrie Kawski, “and on the flip side also, (I have a very) dedicated customer base.”

Breakfast isn’t just breakfast at The Wooden Chair.

“We’re a unique restaurant; we’re not a franchise,” Kawski said. “The majority of everything here is homemade. There are no deep fryers, and everything is fresh every day.”

The local restaurant also boasts an ever-changing menu of breakfast classics and new favorites, such as brotomushepperasheese — broccoli, tomatoes, mushrooms and green peppers topped with cheese sauce and served over hash browns or toast.

Patrons and friends Jacqulynn Nellessen and Dena Barton visit The Wooden Chair often with family and friends.

“Myself and my two girlfriends have been meeting here for the past five years,” Nellessen said. “Their food is so amazing, and their service is just fabulous. The atmosphere really represents a downtown restored feeling.”

All of these things add up to a great experience to start your day.

— By Adam Malooly, for the Journal

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

5

BEST PLACE FOR PIZZA

Polito’s Pizza

A

fter four years in business, Kevin Polito says the secret to his success is all in the freshness.

That is one of the many reasons the local pizza parlor was voted the best place for pizza in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey for the second year in a row.

“There’s just no other place like it,” Polito said.

“Everything is fresh. We make our dough every day.

We slice up the vegetables every day. We shred the

cheese every day. And we only use the best ingredients.”

ABOUT POLITO’S Located in downtown Stevens Point, Polito’s serves PIZZA New York-style pizza by the pie or by the slice. The Address: 960 Main St., restaurant also has locations in Oshkosh, Wausau and Stevens Point La Crosse.

Contact: 715-341-9980; Devon Adams of Stevens Point said Polito’s is his www.politospizza.com favorite place for pizza, hands down.

“Seriously, where else could you get a mac and cheese TOP 3 pizza? That’s two of the best things on the planet, all rolled into one,” he said.

2. Bill’s Pizza Shop As odd as it might sound, Polito said the mac and 3. Toppers Pizza cheese pizza is one of his best sellers, along with chicken bacon ranch and the barbecue steak and fries pizza.

“This is not your average pizza,” Adams said. “It’s not just the variety I love. It just tastes so good.”

If you’re up for the challenge, you and a friend also might want to try the Monster Pizza Contest. Consume a 28-inch, 12-pound pizza in an hour and they’ll give you $500. It’s a challenge for only the most serious pizza eaters.

“As tempting as that sounds,” Adams said, “I think I’ll stick with a large.”

— By Shereen Skola, for the Journal

Phil Johnson, manager of Polito’s Pizza in downtown Stevens Point, slices a barbecue pulled-pork pizza. (DOUG WOJCIK/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

A letter to our valued customers, Hard to believe it’s only been just over 4 years since we first opened our doors in downtown Stevens Point. Today we have four locations throughout the state of Wisconsin and we couldn’t have done it without our amazing customers or our dedicated employees.

We have built a loyal following that many independent pizzerias can only dream of.

Stevens Point Location We would like to thank all of our wonderful 960 Main Street patrons that made this dream a reality. To you, Stevens Point, Wisconsin 54481 we promise to pay special attention to every 715/341-9980 detail of our business to ensure your visit is memorable each time. We promise to maintain the highest standards of quality at each of our locations and will always use top of the line products when constructing our delicious pizza.

So thank you to all of our friends who fill our dining room every day! You’re the reason we’re here and we will do everything we can to make sure you walk out of the doors happy for many years to come! Signup for a FREE slice on you birthday www.politospizza.com

Sincerely,

The Polito Family WI-5001392223

facebook.com/politospizza

6 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

BEST PLACE FOR LUNCH

The Wooden Chair

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

BEST STEAK

Michele’s Catering & Restaurant

Ashley Farmer serves lunch to Hulda Anderson, left, and Eyglo Reichert, both originally from Iceland and now living in Wisconsin Rapids, at The Wooden Chair in downtown Stevens Point. (DOUG WOJCIK/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

W

ith lunch favorites such as the wrapped ABOUT THE chair, the lazy boy and the spindle, The WOODEN CHAIR Wooden Chair is a favorite afternoon Address: 1059 Main St., dining spot for many people who work Stevens Point in downtown Stevens Point and others who want to Contact: 715-341-1133 enjoy some relaxing midday cuisine.

Jean Feehan and Frank Hammes of Rochester, TOP 3 Minn., learned of the local restaurant from the Stevens Point Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 2. Cafe 27 on a recent trip, and they decided to give it a try.

3. Christian’s Bistro “The food is just great, and I was surprised how fast the food was ready,” Feehan said.

Hammes agreed.

“We’ll be back,” he said.

This is the quality, speed and personal touch new and repeat customers of The Wooden Chair have come to appreciate over the years. It’s also the reason the local restaurant has been named the best place for lunch for the second straight year in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey.

Owner and manager Carrie Kawski said another reason for the local restaurant’s success is what’s on the menu.

“People are watching what they eat,” she said. “Our food is a little on the healthier end.”

Also making sure they are staying conscientious locally, The Wooden Chair uses as much local produce and products as it can.

— By Adam Malooly, for the Journal

Chef Jon Hardin tops a Parmesan garlic filet mignon with mushrooms at Michele’s Catering & Restaurant in Stevens Point. (DOUG WOJCIK/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

T

here are plenty of carnivores in central ABOUT MICHELE’S Wisconsin, and when those folks get hungry CATERING & for a plump, juicy steak, Michele’s Catering RESTAURANT & Restaurant is where many of them go.

Thad Klasinski, chef and owner of Michele’s Address: 513 Division St., Catering & Restaurant, said he’s pleased and honored Stevens Point to be named the best place for steak in the Stevens Contact: 715-341-3363, Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey, www.michelescatering a new category in 2011. andrestaurant.com “My wife, Wendy, and I appreciate the public voting for us and our business,” Klasinski said. “It’s TOP 3 because of them that we’re still here in the commu2. Silver Coach nity and able to provide the fine cuisine and service 3. Red Mill Supper Club that people have come to expect.”

One of the secrets to having the best steak in the county is to buy the best cuts of meat, Klasinski said.

“We strictly use high-yield grade choice, Black Angus and prime beef products and age, cut, trim and season the meat ourselves for specific cooking methods,” Klasinski said. “It’s the right way to serve steak.”

Michele’s has become most well-known for its Saturday night prime rib special and for its seafood.

Sheila Szymanski of Stevens Point said she’s been a customer of Michele’s since she moved to Portage County 25 years ago.

In addition to seafood such as shrimp and scallops, Szymanski’s favorite item on Michele’s menu is the steak, which she said is “always cooked to perfection.”

“I absolutely love their steaks,” Szymanski said. “The chefs make them any way you like, and they use quality products. Michele’s has been open long enough that you know what to expect. You know that you’ll never be disappointed.”

— By Dan Richter, for the Journal

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

BEST ASIAN CUISINE

Tempura House

W

hether you’re hunABOUT TEMPURA gry for Chinese or HOUSE Japanese food, the Address: 1830 Plover Road, place Portage County Plover residents prefer most is Tempura Contact: 715-341-4944 House. The local restaurant was named as having the best Asian TOP 3 cuisine in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best 2. Bamboo House reader survey.

3. Green Tea “We’re absolutely happy to hear that we were voted the favorite,” said Emiko Togashi, manager of Tempura House. “We try our best to have great service and to serve great food.”

Tempura House recently moved to a new, larger location at 1830 Plover Road, Plover.

The restaurant serves both authentic Chinese and Japanese cuisine, including chop suey and katsu, and also features a sushi bar and daily lunch buffet.

“The owner of the restaurant is from Taiwan, and he makes authentic Taiwanese and Chinese food,” Togashi said. “Many of these recipes he uses are ones that you can’t find anywhere else.”

Wendy Allen of Plover said she’s been a customer of Tempura House since it opened more than 15 years ago.

Allen said she visits the restaurant so often the staff prepares a special dish to accommodate her dietary needs.

“Tempura House is one of the only places in the area where you can get a meal that’s gluten-free,” Allen said. “The staff is so nice and accommodating. I just love it there.”

Togashi also said Tempura House soon will offer ladies’ night specials on Thursdays, complete with sushi, sashimi and mixed-drink discounts.

“We want to say thank you to everyone who voted for us,” Togashi said. “We’re going to continue to give the best service and best dining experience that we can provide.”

$#!"

Voted Best Realtor of Portage Co. $#!"

— By Dan Richter, for the Journal

STEVE L ANE 715-498-5263 lanes@firstweber.com www.stevelane.com

A tuna and avocado salad at Tempura House in Plover. Top right: Charlene and Ken Konkol enjoy the restaurant’s lunch buffet. Top left: A dragon fire roll. (PHOTOS BY DOUG WOJCIK/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL) WI-5001389920

7

8 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

BEST LOCAL BREW

BEST PLACE FOR COFFEE

Starbucks

Stevens Point Brewery

Starbucks was voted the best place for coffee in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey. (DOUG WOJCIK/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

S

tarbucks arguably is the most recognizable ABOUT face in the world for coffee, with more than STARBUCKS 17,000 retail stores in more than 50 countries since it opened in 1971.

Locations: 101 Division St., In addition to its availability, the company is wellStevens Point, 715-344-8738; known for the quality of its coffee, having earned 120 Crossroads Drive, Plover, such distinctions as No. 1 Best Coffee in the Fast 715-295-9641.

Food and Quick Refreshment categories in Zagat’s Website: www.starbucks.

Survey of National Chain Restaurant for 2009-10. com The company also was named the country’s most popular Quick Refreshment Chain in the same surTOP 3 vey.

2. Emy J’s Since 2006, Portage County folks have had the 3. South Point Restaurant opportunity to sample that coffee at 101 Division St. in Stevens Point and at 120 Crossroads Drive in Plover. Apparently, those customers have been impressed as the coffee chain was chosen as the best place for coffee in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey.

Julie Pope of Stevens Point said while she doesn’t go to Starbucks daily, she does go regularly, most often to the Plover location. She said each member of her family has a favorite selection.

“Oh, yes. My husband and I always get a hazelnut coffee, my one son gets a mocha and the other one gets a smoothie,” Pope said. “We like the quality, and the service is always good whenever we go there.”

— By Nathan Vine, Journal staff

A group of men take pictures of the Stevens Point Brewery before taking a tour. (NICK PAULSON/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

E

very time Robert Taylor visits his chilABOUT STEVENS dren, they ask him to bring a few styles of POINT BREWERY Point beer with him. The same goes for his Address: 2617 Water St., friends.

Stevens Point “I take it as gifts to people out of town, and those Contact: 715-344-9310; friends always like it,” said Taylor of Stevens Point. www.pointbeer.com That fondness, as well as the fact it is a local company, is why Taylor voted for the Stevens Point Brewery for best local brew in the Stevens Point TOP 3 Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey. This 2. Central Waters Brewing is the second year in a row the local brewer has won Co. the award.

3. O’so Brewing Co. It is with local fans like Taylor that Point beer has built its business upon, even as it expands into markets nationwide, said Julie Birrenkott, director of marketing for the brewery.

Part of that loyalty comes from the brewery’s strong ties to the community, such as the numerous community events it sponsors.

But it also comes from a consistent taste that Point drinkers have come to enjoy through decades of brewing.

“The flavor profile is consistent, with no off characters,” Birrenkott said. “We’re constantly monitoring, and that goes to our brewing staff.”

That consistency doesn’t mean the brewery isn’t trying new brews. Point has added several styles in the past few years, most recently the popular 2012 black ale.

“It’s being innovative,” Birrenkott said. “Keeping customers excited for new products.”

— By Nick Paulson, Journal staff

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

9

BEST BARTENDER

Archie Hansen

I

f there’s one thing Portage County has no ABOUT ARCHIE’S shortage of, it’s bartenders.

COCKTAIL Archie Hansen of Archie’s Cocktail Lounge LOUNGE AND and Grill, however, stands above the rest GRILL and was voted the area’s best in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey.

Address: 3717 Division St., “I’m flattered that I won,” said Hansen, who owns Stevens Point Archie’s along with his wife, Sue. “It’s definitely an Contact: 715-344-9895 honor, but completely unexpected.”

Hansen opened the business in 1977 and said he TOP 3 has maintained a close relationship with all of his 2. Johnny Wilkinson at patrons throughout those 34 years.

Matero’s Pizza and Pub “I know all the patrons and treat everyone as part 3. Jeremy Moss at Christian’s of the family,” Hansen said. “On occasion, some of Bistro our patrons will even act as guest bartenders. It’s really an easygoing environment.”

Frieda Myszkowski of Custer has been a patron of Archie’s for more than five years.

Hansen’s friendly demeanor and ability to connect with patrons are two of the reasons she voted for him.

“Archie’s just a great guy. He’d give you the shirt off his back if you needed it,” Myszkowski said. “You can go in there and talk to him about anything in confidence, and he’ll listen.”

Hansen also serves great food at the lounge, Myszkowski said, which is another reason she felt that he deserved the No. 1 spot.

“Archie serves the best darn chicken wings in all of central Wisconsin, and his burgers are awesome,” she said. “It’s the whole package.”

Archie Hansen of Archie’s Cocktail Lounge and Grill tops the vote as best bartender in Portage County. (DOUG WOJCIK/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

— By Dan Richter, for the Journal

Margarita Specials

3 YEAR ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION! Nov. 4th & 5th

2/1 All Day

Receive $5 off a bill of $20 or more

Every Tuesday/Thursday

Restaurant Open soon in Waupaca Authentic Mexican Food (All Food Made 100% From Scratch) (All Food MSG Free)

Now Featuring Additional Seating

WI-5001400807

5725 Windy Drive Suite A

WI-5001397659

(VOTED #1 MEXICAN RESTAURANT IN PORTAGE COUNTY BY INDEPENDENT JOURNAL SURVEY)

Call Today to reserve your next business meeting or private party

715-341-8893

at the Best Western

EL MEZCAL

Carry Outs Available 5720 WINDY DR, STEVENS POINT, WI

715-342-1521

LOCATED JUST EAST OF HOLIDAY INN

10 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

BEST PLACE FOR A CHEAP DATE

Belts’ Soft Serve

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

BEST PLACE FOR A ROMANTIC DATE

Christian’s Bistro

Karen Willis enjoys a pre-meal bottle of champagne with her husband, Mike Willis, at Christian’s Bistro in Plover. (B.C. KOWALSKI/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

Daniel Parker and his date, Haley Neja, enjoy an ice cream treat at Belts’ Soft Serve.

(ADAM MALOOLY/FOR THE JOURNAL)

S

pending a lot of money isn’t always the key ABOUT BELTS’ to a great date. Start with some good comSOFT SERVE pany, serve up a tasty treat, and the sparks Address: 2140 Division St., just might fly.

Stevens Point For many Portage County residents, Belts’ Soft Contact: 715-344-0049 Serve is the place that comes to mind for that perfect date. The local ice cream shop, home of the “large cone,” has been named the best place for a TOP 3 cheap date in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage 2. McDonald’s County’s Best reader survey for the second year in 3. Rogers Cinema a row.

For a cheap date location, it can’t be beat.

“It’s delicious,” Daniel Parker said.

“It’s fun to go somewhere local,” added his date, Haley Neja.

Other customers agree.

“I come here for dates all the time,” said Tiffany Johnson, a regular at the ice cream shop.

The third-generation, family-owned business is open the first Friday in March to the end of the first weekend in October.

No matter the weather conditions, die-hard ice cream enthusiasts camp out overnight for the first taste of the coveted ice cream each year, and they keep coming back as the days grow colder and the allure of a homemade cookie dough flurry and other frozen treats are too tempting to resist.

“People want to get their last licks in for the season,” said manager Cole Racine.

— By Adam Malooly, for the Journal

W

hen Mike and Karen Willis say that ABOUT Christian’s Bistro is one of the best resCHRISTIAN’S taurants around, you can believe them.

After all, they regularly dine in New BISTRO York’s finest.

Address: 3066 Village Park The Willises are among many of the bistro’s Drive, Plover patrons who dine there weekly, and that is probContact: 715-344-3100; ably the reason Christian’s Bistro was voted the www.christiansbistro.com best place for a romantic date in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey.

TOP 3 “It should’ve been voted best place to eat, period,” Mike Willis said.

2. Silver Coach Karen Willis travels to New York during the week 3 (tie). @1800 and Michele’s for her consulting job and eats at some of the finest Catering & Restaurant restaurants New York has to offer. Mike Willis travels with her often and eats at those restaurants, too.

But that doesn’t stop them from looking forward to their regular Saturday night date at Christian’s, which they both say is top-notch in food, atmosphere and wine expertise.

The couple lives in Arkdale and travels 45 minutes every Saturday to visit with a staff they know well. Online reviews are full of similar stories of long trips taken to the bistro.

The restaurant carries good heritage. Executive Chef Christian Czerwonka has worked at some of the most famous restaurants in the country as well as under well-known chef Emeril Lagasse.

Menus are put together from some of the finest ingredients in the area, with an emphasis on local food. Paired with just the right wine from sommelier Jeremy Moss, Christian’s offers an experience that lends itself to an impressive date night.

— By B.C. Kowalski, Journal staff

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

BEST SPORTS BAR

Graffiti’s Sports Pub

A

s Gary Kuplic watched the Milwaukee ABOUT GRAFFITI’S Brewers close out the National League SPORTS PUB Division Series, it was easy for him to Address: 912 Main St., explain why he chose to watch the game at Stevens Point Graffiti’s Sports Pub. Contact: 715-344-4450; “It’s the atmosphere,” Kuplic said. “It’s the perwww.graffitissportspub.com fect sports bar.”

He was too far away to hear Kuplic’s answer, but if owner Troy Hojnacki had heard him, it would TOP 3 have been music to his ears.

2. Final Score Creating a warm, friendly atmosphere for patrons 3. Rookies Sport Pub to watch the game is what Hojnacki has aimed for with Graffiti’s. And the atmosphere is one reason Graffiti’s was voted best sports bar in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey for the second year in a row.

It begins with the friendly staff, Hojnacki said, but goes well beyond that.

As with any good sports bar, the walls in Graffiti’s are lined with unique sports memorabilia, including items from local hockey star Joe Pavelski, who plays for the NHL’s San Jose Sharks.

The building also has about “a zillion” TVs, as Hojnacki put it, that allow patrons to watch multiple games at once, and in high definition. There are even TVs in the restrooms.

“It gives you a chance to catch that play you would have otherwise missed,” Hojnacki said.

Graffiti’s staff puts a lot of thought and effort into the menu, making sure each detail is just right.

“We invest that time and find that perfect part of every sandwich,” Hojnacki said.

On game days, the bar offers giveaways and has small raffles — a little kickback to the customers, the owner said.

Patrons watch the Milwaukee Brewers at Graffiti’s Sports Pub in Stevens Point. (NICK PAULSON/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

The Spicy Tie Band

BEST LOCAL BAND of

PORTAGE COUNTY Next public Appearance 11/05/11 Alpine Holiday Marshfield, WI 8:00 PM

WI-5001398733

@1800 is the perfect place for a romantic evening

This is one group that truly has FUN performing. Each member adds a unique aspect to the bands appeal, this allows the band to be very entertaining to listeners of all ages. The music selection is derived from popular hits from an array of music decades.

When you’re looking for just the right place to take that special someone for a romantic evening, @1800 is ^aI LS_ZIPM O]P _^YUV_a L^TR_QaIPIW XSI `TIPVKLS K]V_VSI and extensive wine offerings provide the perfect elegant atmosphere for your evening out. \VSI ZV^a ]_ ^RSVba^ LSJ XSJ R]^ ZaY ZI ZIPI [R^IJ one of the best places to take a romantic date.

Contact Us Phone: 1-715-341-3967 pat@spicytie.com www.spicytie.com

Call 346-1800 for reservations.

1800 North Point Drive N Stevens Point 346-1800 N www.at1800.com WI-5001398993

11

12 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

BEST LIVE MUSIC

Partners Pub

W

hen it comes to rockin’ out to live tunes, Partners Pub is the place to be.

ABOUT PARTNERS Partners Pub opened its doors in 1977 and PUB has been a staple of the Stevens Point area Address: 2600 Stanley St., for more than 30 years. This year, it was voted as the Stevens Point best place for live music in the Stevens Point Journal’s Contact: 715-544-0661; Portage County’s Best reader survey. www.partners-pub.com “It makes us feel good to win because all we want to do is provide a fun, friendly atmosphere where people can TOP 3 come have a good time,” said Tim McKeown, co-owner of Partners Pub. “I guess we’re doing something right if 2. Amber Grill people voted us No. 1.”

3. Rookies Sport Pub Partners generally books rock ’n’ roll, classic rock and country music bands.

Having live music adds to the pub’s atmosphere and even helps bring patrons out of their shells, McKeown said.

“Partners is a good meeting spot in general, but the live music allows you to come out and maybe meet some new people,” McKeown said. “It doesn’t matter if you’re here alone or with a group of people. You can always have a good time.”

John Kitowski of Stevens Point said he visits Partners Pub a few times a month with friends, especially when a band is booked to perform.

“Having a live band makes it feel more like a party,” he said. “Everybody’s having fun and moving around. ... It gives you something to do on a Friday or Saturday night.”

— By Dan Richter, for the Journal

WIN A

Partners Pub at 2600 Stanley St. was chosen as the best place for live music in Portage County. (DOUG WOJCIK/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

$100

VISA GIFT CARD*

Go to DealChicken Central Wisconsin on Facebook, click the “like” button and register.

Enter by November 1.

WI-5001403173

*For official rules visit DealChicken Central Wisconsin’s Facebook Page.

Plus, save up to 90% off Central Wisconsin dining, shopping, and more!

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

13

BEST LOCAL BAND

Spicy Tie Band THE

WOODEN CHAIR 1059 Main St., Downtown Stevens Point Breakfast & Lunch Daily • 7 am to 2 pm • 341-1133

Enjoy Old-Fashioned Charm

Hardwood Floors, Brick Walls, Cozy Fireplace & Unique Antique Chairs Serving Natural & Healthy Foods, Smoke-Free Environment Some of the Best Omelettes, Baked Goods and Sandwiches This side of the River.

Home of Fudge Utopia.

WI-5001392209

P

ortage County has no shortage of outstandABOUT SPICY TIE ing entertainment choices, and for the secBAND ond year in a row, voters have chosen the Band members: Spicy Tie Band as their favorite local band » Pat Dunn, vocals, guitar in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best » Patience Dunn, vocals reader survey. » Eric Schmies, bass The band had its first performance in 1999, » Brian Chojnacki, vocals though the current lineup of eight members has » Josh Freymiller, drums been performing together for just more than five » Tom Jaworski, keyboard years. Its unique blend of music appeals to a vari» Rob Raflik, guitar ety of listeners, featuring popular music from sev» Brad Pagel, trumpet eral decades.

Contact: 715-341-3967; Scott Siewert of Stevens Point said he has been a www.spicytie.com fan of the Spicy Tie Band for years.

“They aren’t just a typical bar band,” Siewert TOP 3 said. “I love all the instruments they use.”

In addition to the keyboard, electric and bass gui2. Tuscan Road tars, and drums often found in musical groups, the 3. Otis & the Alligators Spicy Tie Band features a variety of instruments including trumpet, saxophone and harmonica.

The band has played for dozens of festivals and events, including Summerfest in Milwaukee. Despite the impressive list of venues, band member Pat Dunn said one of his favorite performances was a recent collaboration between the Spicy Tie Band and Wausau West High School.

“I personally had a great time,” Dunn said. “It was a very cool collaboration with our band and theirs.”

According to Dunn, the best thing about being a member of the group is the fun they have making music together.

“If we’re not having fun, there isn’t a reason to keep going,” he said.

— By Shereen Skola, for the Journal

14 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

BEST PLACE FOR KARAOKE

Partners Pub

W

ABOUT PARTNERS hen Portage County residents want to sing their hearts out, the majority prefer to take the stage at Partners PUB Pub in Stevens Point.

Address: 2600 Stanley St., That’s why the local pub and grill was voted the best Stevens Point place for karaoke in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Contact: 715-544-0661; Best reader survey for the second year in a row. www.partners-pub.com “We like to have karaoke because it’s something that people enjoy doing when they go out for the night,” said Tim McKeown, TOP 3 co-owner of Partners Pub. “People like to sing and have a good time.”

2. Rookies Sport Pub Partners hosts karaoke once a week, alternating between every 3. Pete’s Sports Bar other Wednesday and Thursday night.

Ashley Goetz of Whiting said she enjoys performing karaoke because it livens up the crowd.

“Karaoke is all about having fun and putting yourself out there,” she said. “It doesn’t even matter how good you can sing. People are going to cheer you on no matter what.”

While Goetz said she usually tackles songs by country artists such as Carrie Underwood and Gretchen Wilson, she occasionally branches out to classic rock singers such as Pat Benatar and Joan Jett.

“Singing helps people open up, and you can even get to know a person better by what kind of song they sing,” she said.

McKeown said karaoke attracts a wide range of customers, from college-age patrons all the way up to people in their 50s and 60s.

“We don’t shoot for any one crowd,” McKeown said. “We have the best customers in the world, so getting to spend time with them makes coming to work fun. There’s a laugh every single day.”

— By Dan Richter, for the Journal

5633 Highway 10 715-343-1659 | Fax 715-343-1744 Stevens Point, WI

Your Business Does More than Shipping ... and so do we!

Chauncy Vreeland sings karaoke at Partners Pub in Stevens Point. (DOUG WOJCIK/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

Let us handle all of your needs this holiday season Full Service wide format color printing, B&W and color copies, Fax Services, Document Services, Digital Printing & Copying, Binding, Laminating, Padding, Collating, Labels and Forms, Rubber Stamps, and Greeting Cards, Professional Business Cards, Name Plates.

WI-5001402289

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

15

BEST AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE

Auto Select

C

arol Rucinski was barely in the door at Auto Select, 3145 Church St., before owner Doug Noskowiak spoke up.

“Hey Carol,” he said, “What can we do for you today?”

Though Rucinski is just one of hundreds of customers of ABOUT AUTO the southside SELECT repair shop, the employees Locations: 3145 Church St., there know her Stevens Point, 715-341-1576; by name, and 5382 Highway 10, Stevens know she often Point, 715-341-1600 stops in for just Website: http://auto a quick check-up selectonline.com before heading out on a trip.

TOP 3 That personal, 2. Schierl Tire & Service friendly service Center is a big reason 3. Len Dudas Motors Auto Select was voted best automotive service in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey.

That the company was viewed so highly was no surprise to Rucinski.

“They take good care of me,” said Rucinski, who has been coming to the shop for about eight years. “(Noskowiak) is really nice and accommodating.”

Noskowiak prides himself and his company on the ability to greet every customer with a friendly face, and often by first name. In the 11 years Auto Select has been on the southside, the employees have made it a point to get to know customers and become a part of the local community.

If customers see Auto Select workers as friends, they are more at ease, Noskowiak said.

Combine that relationship with the strong service and work, and people keep coming back.

“We’re committed to quality work at a fair price,” Noskowiak said. “I think it comes across that we feel like we’re your friends and family.”

— By Nick Paulson, Journal staff

RSports OOKIES Pub

Thank you to all who voted for us in “Best of Portage County”

3233A BUSINESS PARK DRIVE WI-5001395910

Thank you for your patronage and thank you for voting us best fish fry and best hamburger!

Jacob Bloyd works on a vehicle at Auto Select, which was voted best automotive service in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey. (NICK PAULSON/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

Thank You

Jimmy Karaoke Show

3425 Church Street, Stevens Point • 344-7640

FISH FRY SERVED EVERYDAY OF THE WEEK.

Hours: Sunday - Monday 10:00 am-10:00 pm Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 am-11:00 pm Directions: Just off Hwy 39, exit 158 West, right next to the La Quinta Hotel

Under the Direction of Daniel Larson

Bringing Classical to Modern Holiday Choral Music to Central Wisconsin

“Glorious Music of Christmas” with the Wausau Symphony Ensemble

December 2nd: 7:30 PM

Church of the Intercession • Stevens Point

December 3rd: 7:30 PM

WI-5001399246

Comedy Live Music Drink Specials Night

4901 Main Street Stevens Point, WI 54481 Phone: (715) 341 - 3037 COME IN Fax: (715) 341 - 6337 FOR OUR www.hilltoppubandgrill.com FAMOUS

Wisconsin Master Chorale

for voting for us in Best of Portage County

STOP IN FOR Watch the Game!

SUITE 101, STEVENS POINT 715-344-2827

St. Paul United Church of Christ • Wausau

December 4th: 2:00 PM

St. Bronislava Catholic Church • 3200 Plover Rd., Plover WI-5001397657

www.wmcchorale.org

CentralWisconsinHub.com

16 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

ABOUT KOHL’S Address: 150 Crossroads Drive, Plover Contact: 715-344-0480; www.kohls.com

TOP 3 CUSTOMER SERVICE 2. Frank’s Hardware 3. Shuda Funeral Home

PLACE FOR DEALS 2. Walmart 3. Mills Fleet Farm

Readers have chosen Kohl’s at 150 Crossroads Drive in Plover as the best customer service and best deals in Portage County. (DOUG WOJCIK/ STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

BEST PLACE FOR DEALS

Kohl’s

K

ohl’s has a record of quality customer service other retailers could find hard to match.

The Menomonee Falls-based company — which was founded in 1962 and now includes 1,067 stores in 49 states and employs 130,000 — has a list of accolades that includes a No. 3 ranking in the United States by the University of Michigan’s American Customer Satisfaction Index and a No. 10 ranking by the National Retail Federation.

That tradition is continued at the company’s Plover store, 150 Crossroads Drive, which has been named No. 1 for customer service for the second consecutive year in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey.

Sharon Laska of Stevens Point said she shops at Kohl’s frequently for any number of items, from clothes for her husband to new sheets for her daughter who recently moved out of the house.

Laska said she tries to avoid having to return items by having people she buys things for come along with her, but that whenever she needs to return an item she has no problem. She added that the staff always is helpful whenever she is in the store.

“If I am looking for certain sizes or something specific, I always get someone who helps me find what I need,” Laska said.

— By Nathan Vine, Journal staff

Kohl’s

I

f there’s one thing Portage County residents know when they walk into Kohl’s, it is that they will get a deal.

Since opening in Plover in 2005, residents have flocked to the store looking for a good price on everything from clothes to shoes and kitchen items.

And for the second straight year, readers have selected the store at 150 Crossroads Drive as the best place for deals in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey.

With the store being so close to her home, Kelly Caughlan of Plover says Kohl’s can be “very dangerous” with two children and a husband to shop for.

She estimates she shops at the store two to three times a month for a variety of items, and she said she appreciates that she can count on getting a good bargain.

“I don’t think I have ever paid full price for something there,” Caughlan said.

“Something is always on sale, and there’s always a coupon if you’re shopping in the store or even online.”

Cindy Primeau of Stevens Point said she shops regularly at Kohl’s and that the prices are better than other places she shops. She said the company also goes out of its way to provide shoppers opportunities to save through coupons and sales.

“They not only encourage current customers to come back, they work to attract new customers,” Primeau said.

— By Nathan Vine, Journal staff

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

17

SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

Beyond Ordinary

A

nna Neuenfeldt loves to make people ABOUT BEYOND happy. Her Plover store, Beyond Ordinary, ORDINARY has been putting smiles on the faces of its Address: 3044 Village Park customers for just more than four years, Drive, Plover and recently it was named the best shopping experiContact: 715-344-3180 ence in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey.

TOP 3 A new winner in this category, the store offers an eclectic mix of merchandise unique to the area.

2. Mills Fleet Farm “I look for merchandise that people will be proud 3. Gepetto’s Workshop to own,” said Neuenfeldt. “I want customers to feel good when they walk out of the store.”

Beyond Ordinary carries home decor as well as gourmet food and a variety of wines, most of which come from Wisconsin. The store carries Chameleon jewelry, eye-catching scarves, interchangeable purses and more, all artfully arranged to entice shoppers. There also is a baby section for those looking to find that perfect one-of-a-kind gift.

Neuenfeldt said it’s rewarding to see the eyes of a customer light up when walking through the door for the first time.

“Seeing the happy face of a new customer is one of the best compliments I could get,” she said.

Neuenfeldt believes the store’s popularity has a lot to do with her group of employees.

“It’s just a great group of people,” she said. “They see what comes in, and get excited about it all. I know they have a passion for it, too.”

Beyond Ordinary will have its fifth annual Holiday Open House from Nov. 3 to 6, when the store will be stocked and decorated for the holiday season.

Anna Neuenfeldt, owner of Beyond Ordinary in Plover, stands near a display of autumn merchandise available at her store.

(DOUG WOJCIK/ STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

— By Shereen Skola, for the Journal

salon | envy From tame to twisted, funky or conservative, we can do it all! Salon Envy is the newest and hottest salon to hit the Stevens Point area.

1314 3rd Street Stevens Point, WI 54481 www.salonenvyllc.com WI-5001399203

WI-5001398582

(715) 344-4522

www.michelescateringandrestaurant.com

18 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

BEST DAY SPA

BEST HAIR SALON

The Wellness Spa

Trendsetters Act II

Trendsetters Act II in Stevens Point was named the best hair salon in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey. Shown are the stylists who work at the salon. (DOUG WOJCIK/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

I

Nail technician Lori Horgan massages Jamie Roe’s hands at The Wellness Spa in Stevens Point. (DOUG WOJCIK/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

F

rom the moment you walk through the ABOUT THE doors of the castle-like building, you realize WELLNESS SPA this is no ordinary day spa. The Wellness Address: 3916 Water St., Spa is where Portage County residents go Stevens Point to be treated like royalty.

Contact: 715-341-3333; For the second year in a row, this unique spot has www.wellnesssparesort.com been named the best day spa in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey.

TOP 3 And for good reason. Owner Deb Adams says 17 years in business has given her the chance to focus 2. Tiarah Day Spa on what really matters to her customers.

3. Adventure 212 Spa “It’s consistency,” Adams said. “When you come here, there are no surprises. You know what you’re going to get, and it’s good.”

From the warm, soft lighting provided by salt lamps to the soothing scents emanating from the spa’s treatment rooms, the environment is one of serenity and peace. In addition to massages for individuals or couples, The Wellness Spa offers a variety of treatments, including manicures and pedicures, facials, waxing and hydrotherapy.

A comfortable space is available to reserve for corporate retreats, parties and showers, with catering options available. Weekend wellness retreats are held periodically, and yoga is taught throughout the week in an expansive room filled with sunshine and warmth. Adams also offers free tai chi classes twice a week, open to anyone.

“It’s just a nice thing to do for the community,” she said.

Class times and descriptions are listed on the spa’s website.

Despite the beautiful facility, Adams said when it comes right down to it, it’s all about the people.

“Our therapists just give a really amazing massage,” she said.

— By Shereen Skola, for the Journal

n business for more than 30 years, Trendsetters ABOUT Act II is separated into three separate salons — one for women, one for men and one just for TRENDSETTERS kids. Manager Michele Bagan said this design ACT II helps customers relax, making it easier for those who Address: 3468 Church might be shy about having a service performed.

St., Stevens Point “Men especially can be self-conscious about having Contact: 715-344-3440 a perm or a highlight,” she said. “This gives them the privacy they need to feel comfortable.”

TOP 3 The local business recently was named the best hair salon in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s 2. Salon Envy Best reader survey.

3. Studio 2827 Bagan said color seems to be the most popular service right now at the salon, as customers get ready to look their best for the holiday season. And it isn’t just women who color.

“It’s our biggest trend, from men to teenage girls,” she said.

A full-service salon, Trendsetters offers a variety of services, from electrolysis to perms. Hair straightening is popular, and there is a stylist on staff who specializes in hair extensions. It also offer pedicures, manicures and artificial nails.

Customers can tan in a traditional tanning bed, or have a spray tan applied for a temporary glow for a special occasion.

— By Shereen Skola, for the Journal

BEST REALTOR

Steve Lane

S

teve Lane of First Weber Group was voted the best Realtor in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey. This is the first year the category was offered.

“Energy, experience, professionalism and results are what I offer to make buying or selling a home a success,” Lane says on his website. “I attribute my continued success based on satisfied customers that have shown their appreciation by recommending me to their friends and family.”

— Journal staff

ABOUT STEVE LANE Office: 5424 Highway 10 E., Stevens Point Contact: 715-498-5263, lanes@firstweber.com, www.firstweber.com

TOP 3 2. RE/MAX 3. Coldwell Banker

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

19

BEST CAR DEALER

Mark Toyota Scion A spa retreat nested in the heart of Wisconsin to relax and revitalize with indulgent, yet therapeutic treatments emphasizing signature massage revealing the essence of all The Wellness Spa therapies

For Details of all The Wellness Spa has to offer, visit www.WellnessSpaResort.com Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00 - 9:00 Saturday 9:00 - 5:00 Closed Sunday

715-341-3333

3916 Water Street, Highway HH • Stevens Point, WI 54481 Mark Toyota Scion of Plover tops the Portage County’s Best reader survey as best car dealer in Portage County. (DOUG WOJCIK/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

M

ark Toyota Scion has been in the car business a long time — 23 years ABOUT MARK — with the last six at 1765 Park Ave. in Plover.

TOYOTA SCION During that time, the company has served many residents of cenAddress: 1765 Park Ave., tral Wisconsin, building a reputation not only locally but nationally Plover — it recently was selected for its sixth consecutive Presidents Award, given out Contact: 715-503-4118;

by Toyota to dealerships that have demonstrated a commitment to maintaining www.marktoyota.com its high standards for customer satisfaction.

Portage County residents continue to recognize that record of success. For the TOP 3 second straight year, they have selected Mark Toyota Scion as the best car dealership in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey.

2. Scaffidi Motors “We consider our employees and our customers to be part of our family, and I 3. Len Dudas Motors think that shows when it comes to our customer service,” said owner and president Mark Olinyk.

Sharon Mras owns and operate Sharon’s Care Centre, a day care business in Stevens Point. With We would like 16-hour workdays, Mras said she isn’t always able to thank those to run her vehicle over for service, but Mark Toyota who voted for Scion always is willing to help her out.

“They will come and get my vehicle, leave me a us and for your car or truck, take it in for service and bring it back patronage to me when I tell them I am going to need it,” Mras said.

Mras said that kind of service shows the company is willing to go above and beyond for its customers.

“When you’re there, they take the time to talk to you or bring you back to show you what they are working on with your vehicle,” Mras said. “It’s wonderful, because you can tell they appreciate their customers.”

1140 Main Street

STEVENS POINT, WI

— By Nathan Vine, Journal staff

• Twenty-three beers on tap • • Daily Specials • WI-5001397731

Holiday Open House

November 3rd - 6th

Thursday 11am-6pm • Friday 11am-6pm Saturday 10am-5pm • Sunday 11am-4pm

(715) 344-3180

3044 Village Park Drive, Plover

Just off I-39 and Hwy B between Menards and Mark Motors

We will be closed October 31 - Nov 2 in preparation, that our open house will defy expectations!

Thank you Portage County for voting Beyond Ordinary the Most Unique Shopping Experience!

WI-5001397676

WI-5001399044

Shuttle Service to and from Hotel ask Front Desk for information

20 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

BEST WORKOUT SPOT

Adventure 212 Fitness

W

— By Shereen Skola, for the Journal

Trainer Mary Schultz assists Michele Glaeser with her workout at Adventure 212 Fitness in Stevens Point. (PHOTOS

BY DOUG WOJCIK/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

Jake Luther spots Eric Kundinger as Kundinger lifts weights at Adventure 212 Fitness. Below: The health club offers a variety of fitness classes, including Zumba.

WI-5001392221

ith a bistro, ABOUT spa, physical ADVENTURE 212 therapy and FITNESS chiropracAddress: 3217 John Joanis tic services all on site, Drive, Stevens Point Adventure 212 Fitness Contact: 715-343-0212, strives to offer customers www.adventure212.com a comprehensive fitness experience.

It’s for that reason the TOP 3 local fitness center has 2. Stevens Point Area YMCA been named the best work3. Anytime Fitness out spot in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey for the second year in a row.

“It’s a one-stop shop for health in the area,” said owner Michelle Peariso.

The variety of classes is nothing short of impressive.

Kickboxing, yoga, spin, Pilates and Zumba are offered.

Peariso said the most popular workout class is Body Pump, an hour-long group strength-training class.

“It’s designed for people who want the workout without all the machines,” she said.

Personal trainers also are available to help coach members of all fitness levels to achieve their goals and see results. The warm-water therapy pool also is a popular feature, especially with older members.

Adventure 212 goes beyond offering basic child care, with a youth workout room, training for cheerleading and a variety of camps and workshops to keep kids active and healthy.

Josh Murray said the staff inspired him to start racing triathlons this year, after helping him get into the best shape of his life.

“They’re not drill sergeants, but they’re not afraid to let you know what you need to work on,” Murray said.

“They’re just extremely knowledgeable, and the atmosphere is great.”

The owner of Adventure 212 agrees.

“The staff here really goes the extra mile,” Peariso said.

“They’re the ones who make all the difference.”

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

21

BEST LOCAL FESTIVAL

Riverfront Rendezvous

The Dang-Its — Pete Olig, left, Jami Lampkins and Tom Waselchuk — perform on the Main Stage during the 2011 Riverfront Rendezvous.

THE

ULTIMATE AUTO SERVICE CENTERS

Green Tea entertains on the Main Stage during the 2011 Riverfront Rendezvous in Pfiffner Pioneer Park. (STEVENS POINT JOURNAL FILE PHOTOS)

T

he Fourth of July holiday wouldn’t be the ABOUT same in Portage County without the annual RIVERFRONT Riverfront Rendezvous festival. The event RENDEZVOUS features live music, a variety of food and 2012 refreshments, contests, children’s activities, an enormous fireworks display over the river and When: June 29 to July 1 at more.

Pfiffner Pioneer Park, off That’s why voters chose Riverfront Rendezvous, Crosby Avenue. which will mark its 28th year in 2012, as the best More information: A local festival in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage schedule of events will be County’s Best reader survey. This is the first year available on the Stevens the category was offered.

Point Parks, Recreation and Amy Boyd of Stevens Point attends the three- to Forestry Department webfour-day festival almost every year. site at www.stevenspoint.

“It’s all about the food, the bands and just being com/index.aspx?nid=151. by the river,” she said. “That, and there are always lots of people.”

TOP 3 Event organizer Tom Schrader, director of the 2. Corn on the Curb Stevens Point Parks, Recreation and Forestry 3. Panacea Department, said an estimated 50,000 to 60,000 people attend the festival each year. He said planning begins in early November and, by December, the headlining bands usually have been booked.

“Sometimes we luck out with bands on their way to or from (Milwaukee’s) Summerfest,” he said. “We can usually get really top entertainment at a great price, and it makes their agents happy, too.”

This year’s event featured a Journey tribute band that appealed to a large crosssection of festival-goers, Schrader said. During the festival, one night features a country band as the headliner, and the other nights lean more toward classic rock.

“We really try to appeal to everyone,” Schrader said.

— By Shereen Skola, for the Journal

Quality Dependable Auto Repair & Service Performed By Qualified Technicians You Can TRUST!

3 Convenient Locations To Serve You! Stevens Point

3145 Church St. Stevens Point, WI 54481

341-1576

Stevens Point - East

Stevens Point - Express

341-1600

295-0061

5382 East Hwy 10 Stevens Point, WI 54481

3417 A Church St. Stevens Point, WI 54481

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED WI-5001397644

Visit Us Online At www.AutoSelectOnline.com

22 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

BEST JEWELER

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

Lee Ayers Jewelers

F

or 26 years, Lee Ayers Jewelers has graced ABOUT LEE AYERS downtown Stevens Point with its sense of JEWELERS class and true business spirit.

Address: 1044 Main St., “It’s a happy business,” said founder and Stevens Point owner Lee Ayers.

Contact: 715-341-0411; He has been asked when he’ll retire. His answer? www.ayersjewelers.com “I’m still having too much fun!”

With the in-house design work of Thomas Dailing, TOP 3 seasoned goldsmiths and an experienced sales staff, the business continues to provide the community 2. Grubba Jewelers with top quality products and services.

3. Brody Designs That’s why Lee Ayers Jewelers was named the top jeweler in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey for the second consecutive year.

Through charitable contributions such as unique Dailing-designed pieces donated to various community organizations, Ayers and his staff remain active in giving back to the community, which easily can be forgotten in today’s business world.

“We really have a passion for all the parts of this,” Ayers said. “It’s the people.”

Through the y e a r s Ay e r s has traveled to Antwerp, Belgium, and most recently the trading mecca of the east, Hong Kong.

He meets with the who’s who of the diamond industry to get the best diamonds for everyone’s occasion.

And customers seem to get a feel for the amount of effort the staff puts into its commitment to excellence.

Customer Dan Dieterich said the business does “outstanding work, they’re reliable and it is a pleasure coming here.”

Dan Zieher, a goldsmith at Lee Ayers Jewelers, works on a piece of jewelry. (ADAM MALOOLY/FOR THE JOURNAL)

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM

— By Adam Malooly, for the Journal

John Hartman

John Hartman, owner of Contemporary Photography in Stevens Point, photographs Sydney May of Marshfield for her senior portrait. (DOUG WOJCIK/STEVENS POINT JOURNAL)

W

hen Portage County residents want ABOUT to capture special memories or simCONTEMPORARY ply strike a pose, they often turn to PHOTOGRAPHY John Hartman and his business, Contemporary Photography.

Address: 1416 Clark St., Hartman, who started Contemporary Photography Stevens Point in 1974, recently was voted best photographer in the Contact: 715-341-3527; Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best readwww.jhartmanphoto.com er survey for the second year in a row.

“I honestly didn’t think I’d win again, but I’m TOP 3 pleased and humbled,” Hartman said. “Sometimes 2. Sarah Gwidt Photography you just do your thing every day and don’t think 3. Newdae Photography about how other people view you and your work. I appreciate the vote of confidence that the readers have put in me, and I’m glad to be noticed.”

Hartman said he most often is hired to do family photography and to take senior portraits of high school students. He also constantly experiments with new equipment and computer technology to stay on top of his game.

“Anybody with a camera these days is considered to be a photographer,” he said.

“I work really hard to take photos that are a bit different and that aren’t easy to replicate.”

Stevens Point resident Roberta Laine, an art and photography teacher at Stevens Point Area Senior High, said she voted for Hartman in the survey because of his innovative and imaginative photography style and because of his welcoming personality.

“I’ve seen a lot of John’s work, and it’s always full of creativity and on the cutting edge,” Laine said. “As someone who teaches photography and knows to look for things like style and composition, I have a real appreciation for his work.”

— By Dan Richter, for the Journal

Central Wisconsin

24 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011

PORTAGE COUNTY’S BEST

BEST HIDDEN TREASURE

Green Circle Trail

F

or 22 years, local residents have enjoyed the Green Circle Trail, a one-of-a-kind natural trail and wildlife corridor. It is one of the first in the nation to encircle an entire community.

The 26-mile scenic trail has been named the best hidden treasure in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey.

John Jury, one of the founders of the project, said the trail is about family, friends and fitness.

“It’s a place for all of us to slow down from the rat race and find harmony with our friends in nature,” Jury said.

Keith Severt said he tries to bike on the trail at least once a week, weather permitting.

“The natural beauty of the trail makes it a really inspiring place to bike,” Severt said. “We are really lucky to have it here in Stevens Point.”

Joggers, hikers, walkers and bird enthusiasts also visit regularly. The Portage County Parks Department, which helps maintain the trail, estimates that more than 100,000 people use it each year. Roughly half the trail’s visitors are bicyclists. The trail also is open to cross-country skiers and snowshoers in the winter months.

ABOUT GREEN CIRCLE TRAIL Hours: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, except for the University Trail section through Schmeeckle Reserve, which closes at sunset.

Information: Maps are available online at www. greencircletrail.org or at the Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center, 2419 Northpoint Drive.

TOP 3 2. O’so Brewing Co. 3. (tie) Schmeeckle Reserve and Wisconsin Master Chorale

— By Shereen Skola, for the Journal

Residents of and visitors to Portage County can connect with nature on the Green Circle Trail. The 26-mile route offers a scenic route to bikers, hikers and joggers in warmer months and crosscountry skiers and snowshoers when snow covers the ground.

(STEVENS POINT JOURNAL FILE PHOTOS)

WWW.STEVENSPOINTJOURNAL.COM