Madison.com's People's Choice Winner's Guide 2021 by Madison.com

M A D I S O N . C O M

, 2021 AUGUST 29

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PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

APPAREL.......................................... 8, 10 AUTOMOTIVE.................................10, 12 BEAUTY & WELLNESS....12, 14-17, 19-20 FOOD & DRINK.............................. 20-33 HEALTH & MEDICAL............... 33, 35-39 LOCAL................................. 39, 42-44, 46 PEOPLE...........................................46-56 RETAIL.............................................56-63 SERVICES........................................63-77 SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT.......77-79

To the WINNERS, FAVORITES, VOTERS & READERS

People’s Choice is a representation of community unity. This year the categories, nominations, winners and publication are bigger than ever. Madison.com had over 9,938 REGISTERED USERS, as many as 3,891 BUSINESSES NOMINATED, and as many as 105,277 TOTAL VOTES cast throughout the whole People’s Choice campaign. Congratulations to the People’s Choice WINNERS and thank you for your devotion, service and love for our great state and Madison.

All category winners are listed in the blue boxes throughout this section.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE is a special advertising section of MADISON.COM and the WISCONSIN STATE JOURNAL. PUBLISHER Chris White Vice President, Sales & Marketing Ross McDuffie MARKETING MANAGER Shyanne Cushman GRAPHIC DESIGN Dusty Drew Baka

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Wisconsin State Journal

Letter from the Publisher

ou’re holding history in your hands – the Winner’s Guide to our first ever Madison. com People’s Choice Awards. You may have previously perused the Star of Madison Awards. This year is about more than a name change. We redesigned our program from the ground up to put you, our loyal readers, in control from beginning to end. The result? Nearly 10,000 registered users nominated over 3,800 businesses, cast 105,277 votes and selected 400 winners and favorites — impressive numbers while our region continues to emerge from the limitations imposed by the coronavirus. Thanks to local entrepreneurs who adroitly shifted gears and the dedication of our readers, we are proud to present our annual look at the best that Madison and Dane County have to offer. What accounts for the impact of the Madison.com People’s Choice Awards? It’s you! These awards give our readers the opportunity to recognize the value of hard work, creativity and perseverance, celebrating those businesses and organizations that consistently exceed our expectations. A Madison.com People’s Choice Award is not only a well-deserved “thank you” to those who truly care for their customers. It also reinforces the efforts of those who go above and beyond every day, making our region a better place to live, work and play. The following pages have winners from businesses big and small, non-profits, individual performers and more. But no matter the size or category of business, time-honored or new to us, all have excellence in common. So on behalf of Madison.com and the Wisconsin State Journal, I’d like to thank the readers who took the time to thoughtfully complete the ballot and offer our congratulations to the winners. Cheers! Chris White Publisher Wisconsin State Journal

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Fairway Was Proudly Named a

Madison.com People’s Choice Winner 2021 Thank you for trusting us with your home loan needs!

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Wisconsin State Journal

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

APPAREL Best Bridal Store Vera’s House of Bridals

Number of Years in Business: 57 7857 Big Sky Drive, Madison, WI 53719 (608) 833-6006 www.verasbridals.com Third-generation family-owned, Vera’s has been helping brides since 1964. With over 800 gorgeous bridal gowns in-store, as well as dresses for the whole bridal party, they specialize in turning dream dresses into reality. Located in a beautiful Victorian mansion, Vera’s has dresses for every style, size and budget and they pamper brides with exceptional service - it’s no surprise that they make shopping for your dress fun, easy, and stress-free!

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Our selection and years of experience (57 years and a counting!) make us stand out among the competition! While most bridal salons have 200-300 dresses to choose from, we have over 800 gorgeous bridal gowns in store (one of the largest selections in the Midwest!) as well as hundreds of bridesmaids, mothers, and even flower girl dresses. We are a one-stop shop for the whole bridal party! Being one of the most established stores in area, we also understand the importance of being size, style, and budget inclusive at Vera’s. We offer gowns in all sizes 2-32, so brides can feel confident that they will be able to shop gowns that will fit well, too!

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

Many of our customers might not know our history! Vera, a professional seamstress, and James, a wedding photographer, opened their first bridal shop in a small farmhouse south of Janesville in 1964. Vera balanced her time between helping brides select their gowns, fitting and sewing the dresses, and raising the couple’s seven children! In 1968, a larger “house” was built for Vera’s brides in Janesville. When this location proved to be too small for the growing business, in 1981, Vera designed and built our current location in Madison! This 12,000 square foot Victorian mansion features 16 large showrooms to welcome brides and their friends and family. Over the years, Vera’s daughter, Renee, took on the role of our Corporate Manager, and today both of Renee’s children, Johnathan and Jennifer, have joined their grandmother as the third generation of family at Vera’s House of Bridals!

What brings customers back to your business?

Being one of the most established bridal businesses in the Midwest, it’s no surprise that most of our customers come to us because they know someone who was Vera’s bride or who shopped with us and had an amazing time. Providing brides with a fun, easy, and most importantly a memorable experience has always been our top priority. We have a tradition at Vera’s where we take a bride’s picture on our grand staircase when she finds her dress, and nothing makes us happier than when a past customer comes back with a new brideto-be and still has her picture that we took of her in her gown years later! We are a grandmother/mother/daughter team, and so many of our brides have mothers, aunts, and grandmothers who were also Vera’s brides and having generational customers is so special to us.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

When a customer visits our store, they can expect an impressive selection of gowns to shop, a friendly and knowledgeable stylist to assist them at their appointment, and attention to detail that can only come from being an expert in the field for over 50 years. We offer over 800 dresses in our salon, so brides can feel confident that when they shop with us, they can see one of the largest selections of bridal gowns.

What are you most proud of?

We are most proud of the amazing brides that we have helped and the weddings that we have been a part of. Over the years, we have worked with tens of thousands of brides, but each and every one is special to us. There really

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

is something magical about the moment when a bride finds “the one” and we couldn’t be more honored to help our brides on their journey to find their wedding dress.

What is your secret to good customer service?

We believe that our secret to good customer service comes from our 50+ years in the industry! We know just what brides are looking for and can cater to their needs and desires in a way that takes all of the stress out of shopping for their dream dress! Brides can rest assured that they are in good hands when they shop at Vera’s because all of our staff is not only experienced and knowledgeable, but also very friendly and welcoming.

FAVORITES

David’s Bridal Premiere Couture

Best Children’s Boutique Happily Ever After Children’s Resale Boutique Number of Years in Business: 7

708 S Whitney Way, Madison, WI 53711 (608) 698-4749 www.happilyeverafterchildrensboutique.com Happily Ever After is a children’s re-sale boutique specializing in clothing, books, shoes/boots, outerwear, gently used toys and the brand new line of Melissa and Doug puzzles and learning materials.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Happily Ever After prides itself on the selection of clothing from ages newborn to size 14/16 in like new condition. The boutique is clean, well organized and all or our merchandise is affordable priced. Happily Ever After has an excellent selection of boutique brands such as Mini Boden, Tea, Hanna Andersson, Janie and Jack, Matilda Jane, Patagonia, REI, Columbia and Marmot.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

Happily Ever After has always had a mission of being a job training enterprise for youth and young adults with developmental disabilities and those in the foster care system.

What brings customers back to your business?

Our customers return because of the excellent selection and quality of our merchandise, the friendly service and they love buying high end children’s clothing at a fraction of the retail price.

What makes your business a good place to work?

We are very laid back, child focused and we pay a living wage.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

The Madison community loves to support, small, locally owned family businesses. We have an extremely loyal customer base and it’s a joy to chat with families as their kids grow from infancy to aging out of our boutique. Our customers stop in just to chat even when their teens are in high school and we love it.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

They can expect a pleasant aroma, a laid back vibe, a boutique that is well organized and clothing that’s affordably priced.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

It is such an honor to be selected the best children’s boutique in Madison. It affirms our hard work, dedication and attention to detail.

What are you most proud of?

Sometimes I look around the boutique in wonderment with a sense of disbelief. I’m just so proud of the fact I had an idea of what I wanted in a children’s resale boutique and I was able to bring it to fruition. It feels so awesome to have customers say over and over how much they love my boutique and they shop with us before going anywhere else.

What is your secret to good customer service?

We greet every customer who walks in the door, offer our assistance and then

Wisconsin State Journal

Loved By Locals For 12 Straight Years

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Nonn’s Wins Four People’s Choice Awards

GRANITE/MARBLE FLOORING

As a local business, there’s truly nothing more rewarding than being your APPLIANCES community’s number one choice. Which is why we’re absolutely thrilled to learn that the Madison community has voted Nonn’s the best place for Home Improvement, Flooring, Appliances, and Countertops—now for the 12th year in a row! If you’re dreaming of updating your home, stop by one of our showrooms in Madison to get inspired. From our complimentary design services to the latest products and trends, we think you’ll love Nonn’s for the same reasons your neighbors do. Discover all of those reasons—and then some—by visiting a Nonn’s showroom today.

MADISON • MIDDLETON

let them shop freely without interference. We enjoy helping customers who need assistance putting outfits together, especially dads who shop alone, now that’s a blast.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We donate to clothing closets at churches and shelters, provide gift certificates to schools and participate in projects with the Boys and Girls Club.

How do you build trust with customers?

We offer clean, gently used clothing and our customers can and do expect the quality they find at Happily Ever After each time they shop with us.

What makes your business popular with families?

We are a small, family owned business and families love our selection, quality and price point.

FAVORITES

Carter’s Tradition Children’s Market

Best Clothing Store - Men’s Duluth Trading Company

100 W. Main Street, Mount Horeb, WI 53572 (608) 437-8655 1107 River Street, Belleville, WI 53508 (608) 424-1227 www.duluthtrading.com

FAVORITES Jazzman Kohl’s

Best Clothing Store - Women’s Society of St. Vincent de Paul - Madison See Bio on page 63

Number of Years in Business: 80 years in Madison 2033 Fish Hatchery Road, Madison, WI 53725 1309 Williamson Street, Madison, WI 53703 6301 Odana Road, Madison, WI 53719 1900 S Park Street, Madison, WI 53713 (608) 442-7200 http://svdpmadison.org

FAVORITES Kohl’s Anthropologie

Best Consignment/ Used Clothing Store Society of St. Vincent de Paul - Madison See Bio on page 63

Retail: Best Resale Shop

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

FAVORITES

Agrace Thrift Store The Pink Poodle

Best Shoe Store The Shoe Box

1314 Canal Street, Black Earth, WI 53515 (608) 767-3447 www.theshoebox.com

FAVORITES

Morgan’s Shoes DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse

AUTOMOTIVE Best Auto Body Shop Zimbrick, Inc.

Number of Years in Business: Since 1965 1601 W. Beltline Highway, Madison, WI 53713 (608) 273-2060 www.zimbrickbodyshop.com Get full list of locations from bio on page 44 & 46 Local: Best Place to Work

FAVORITES

Sparkle Auto Body Ball Body Shop Inc. - Division of Smart Motors

Best Auto Glass Repair Zimbrick, Inc.

Number of Years in Business: Since 1965 5521 Wayne Terrace, Madison, WI 53718 (608) 441-3475 www.zimbrickbodyshop.com Get full list of locations from bio on page 44 & 46 Local: Best Place to Work

FAVORITES

Safelite Auto Glass Madison Auto Glass

Best Car Dealership - New Zimbrick, Inc.

Number of Years in Business: Since 1965 1601 W. Beltline Highway, Madison, WI 53713 (608) 271-1601 www.zimbrick.com Get full list of locations from bio on page 44 & 46 Local: Best Place to Work

FAVORITES

Smart Motors Toyota Wilde East Towne Honda Wisconsin State Journal

Corey Reilly!

BEST CAR SALESPERSON

We couldn’t be prouder to have you on our team!

Best Car Dealership - Used Zimbrick, Inc.

Number of Years in Business: Since 1965 1601 W. Beltline Highway, Madison, WI 53713 (608) 271-1601

FAVORITES

Goat Barber Club Great Clips

Best Fitness Center Princeton Club

www.Zimbrick.com

Number of Years in Business: 30+

Get full list of locations from bio on page 44 & 46

8080 Watts Road, Madison, WI 53719 (608) 833-2639

Local: Best Place to Work

FAVORITES

Smart Motors Used Cars Schoepp Motors

www.princetonclub.net What makes you stand out from the competition?

Best Oil Change

Open 24 hours, free on site childcare, 8 Dane County locations, over 75+ included group exercise classes at each large club, top-of-the-line equipment, beautiful aquatic centers, world-class facilities, $0 joining fee, each member receives two free personal training sessions, and more!

Zimbrick, Inc.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

Number of Years in Business: Since 1965 1601 W. Beltline Highway, Madison, WI 53713 (608) 271-1601 www.Zimbrick.com Get full list of locations from bio on page 44 & 46 Local: Best Place to Work

FAVORITES

Smart Motors Toyota Woodman’s Gas & Lube Center

Best tire store Zimbrick, Inc.

Number of Years in Business: Since 1965 1601 W. Beltline Highway, Madison, WI 53713 (608) 271-1601 www.Zimbrick.com Get full list of locations from bio on page 44 & 46 Local: Best Place to Work

FAVORITES

At the Princeton Club, we believe in the pursuit of a better tomorrow. We all have different reasons for pursuing a healthy life with the common thread being our hope to create a better tomorrow! As a family and locally owned company, we wholeheartedly believe in this, for those who make the Princeton Club their home for health and fitness, and for the communities where our Princeton Clubs are located.

What brings customers back to your business?

Princeton Club removes every obstacle to achieving your health and fitness goals, and creates countless opportunities to help you focus on improving your health to create your better tomorrow!

What makes your business a good place to work?

Princeton Club is a fun, high-energy place to work where you get to help people improve their lives every single day. Plus, employees receive a free membership!

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

The positive impact Princeton Club makes by helping people improve their lives through health and fitness doesn’t stop with the individual. When one person decides to make their health and fitness a priority, it creates a ripple effect... expanding more ways they can enjoy life with their family, increasing focus and energy at work, boosting confidence to try new activities. It boosts engagement with the people and activities around them, improving our community’s connections even more! Princeton Club also partners with local organizations that are working hard to make tomorrow better for everyone in our communities. For every new member or renewal member that joins our club, a portion of that sale is donated to a local organization!

Weber Tires Costco Wholesale

beauty & wellness Best Barbershop Escapade Salon

Number of Years in Business: 8 1/2 4102 Lien Road, STE B, Madison, WI 53704 (608) 241-1966 www.escapadesalon.com See Bios on pages 14 & 53 Beauty & Wellness: Best Hair Salon 12

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Wisconsin State Journal

BEST CREDIT UNION IF YOU SAY SO. (WHICH YOU DID!) It does our hearts good to know that we’re helping so many people in Madison and surrounding communities manage their financial life in such meaningful ways. So, thank you for saying we’re the best. And right back at you!

Also Voted Best: Wealth Management Customer Service

Insured by NCUA.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

Princeton Club is honored to be voted Best Fitness Center by our community! We strive to inspire, challenge and motivate you to be the best version of yourself, and we’re incredibly grateful to be part of your health journey.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Princeton Club partners with local organizations that are working hard to make tomorrow better for everyone in our communities. For every new member or renewal member that joins our club, a portion of that sale is donated to a local organization! We partner with different organizations throughout the year to support our collective pursuit of a better tomorrow for everyone in our community.

How do you build trust with clients, patients, or customers?

Princeton Club is committed to excellence. We’re committed to you!

What makes your business popular with families?

Princeton Club offers free on site childcare at our Kids Club! Your kids can have a blast while you focus on improving your health and fitness. Princeton Club West and Princeton Club East have weekly family swim time to enjoy the pools with your kids. Princeton Club East offers Summer Camp for campers 5-12 years old!

FAVORITES

Anytime Fitness Prairie Athletic Club

Best Hair Salon Escapade Salon

Number of Years in Business: 8 1/2 4102 Lien Road, STE B, Madison, WI 53704 (608) 241-1966 www. escapadesalon.com We are a Paul Mitchell Focus Salon that is also a full-service salon, offering spa pedicures, body waxing, massage, and facials. We have a boutique with unique clothing, purses, jewelry, handbags, and much more! We are open 6 days a week, offer online booking and sell gift cards online.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

We strive and deliver the best customer experience every time you walk through our front door. Our service providers are united as a family and you will feel the warmth and hospitality during your entire visit. Our guests are greeted by their names when they walk in.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? We are the largest Paul Mitchell Salon in the entire Midwest.

What brings customers back to your business?

Our AWESOME team of professionals and our upbeat friendly attitude at all times. You will always hear everyone laughing.

What makes your business a good place to work?

The family atmosphere with our team of professionals. We work well together and are always there to offer support to one another.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

I love Madison and everything it offers. The diversity of our culture, the events happening year-round. The beauty of the city is surrounded by lakes. We are home of the Wisconsin Badgers!!

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Always greeted by your name and a smile. We take customer service to the next level. We are a very clean and eco-friendly salon for the environment.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

It is truly an honor to be recognized by our guests and community for this award. Thank you!!

What are you most proud of?

Our team of professionals is what makes it all possible they are creative designers with a friendly attitude. The team has amazing talent and great customer service. Always pitching in to help out with an incredible team spirit.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

What is your secret to good customer service?

We treat everyone how we like to be treated with kindness and respect.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Our motto has always been to give back to the community you work and reside in. With the help of our guests and team, we support Sandburg Elementary School in Madison. We do annual drives for Back to School Supplies, filling their Food Pantry, and Christmas presents, and another Food drive. We also take donations throughout the year to help where they need it the most.

How do you build trust with clients?

By taking the time to personally know each one of them and stopping to say hello. Our strong consultations, product knowledge, and styling tips so our guests can achieve this look at home.

What makes you popular?

Our one-stop Salon for services and our Boutique to find that one-of-a-kind unique gift for someone special.

What makes your business popular with families?

Being a full-service salon and trained to do all aspects of hair. Our families can book their appointments all together at the same time and be done at the same time.

FAVORITES

ANiU Salon & Spa Cost Cutters

Best Nail Salon En Avant Nail Studio

Number of Years in Business: 4+ 6406 Westin Drive, Madison, WI 53719 (608) 628-1820 www.enavantnailstudio.com En Avant Nail Studio is a nail salon loyal to customer satisfaction, providing exceptional service and high quality products. We provide a welcoming environment where the client feels at home and relaxed. Our goal is to not only satisfy, but to exceed our clients expectations and needs.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

We are located in the lower level of my home with a private pedicure suite. This gives the client more of a relaxing atmosphere.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

Future clients may not know that we offer Gelcap Nail Extensions, a system previously only available at Nail Spa Plus on Whitney Way. This process leaves a virtually flawless nail all while keeping your natural nail healthy.

What makes your business a good place to work?

We must say, it is the clients that make En Avant a great place to work.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

When our clients walk through the door, they can expect a homey, welcoming environment where all the latest safety and sanitation laws are followed.

Wisconsin State Journal

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2 1

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Thanks for voting us

#1 Health Food Store and #2 Grocery Store!

Everyone Welcome!

www.willystreet.coop

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

It is an honor and a privilege to be voted People’s Choice for Best Nail Salon. We couldn’t do it without the support of our loyal clientele.

What are you most proud of?

We had a short amount of time to start, set-up and open the salon and the fact that we are thriving, even during a pandemic, is the thing we are most proud of.

What is your secret to good customer service?

The key to customer service is being able to converse with the client and listen to their needs. The client always comes first.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

En Avant has donated to multiple golf outings, bowling tournaments and PBS auctions, all raising money for different causes. We believe it’s important to give back to our community whenever possible.

How do you build trust with clients, patients, or customers?

We build trust with our clients by being honest, friendly, knowledgeable in our field and adhering to sanitation laws.

FAVORITES

ANiU Salon & Spa Happy Nails and Spa

Best Spa Kneaded Relief Day Spa & Wellness

Number of Years in Business: 23 5500 E Cheryl Pkwy Ste 126, Fitchburg, WI 53711 (608) 255-0070 www.kneadedreliefdayspa.com Kneaded Relief is a full service day spa specializing in Therapeutic Services: massage, facials, natural nail manicures, pedicures, shellac manicures, body treatments, waxing, aromatherapy steam showers & aromatherapy bath, personal training and fitness classes. Kneaded Relief features a beautiful prairie view from several rooms including the Relaxation Retreat and has won many awards in their 23 years of business. You’ll feel like you are a world away yet just steps outside of Madison!

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Not only is Kneaded Relief situated on a beautiful prairie but our services are unmatched. The owners are also therapists and hand pick each employee. We are a team based business and everyone looks out for the guests’ best interest.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

We are locally owned by Nichol & Duke Harvey for the past 23 years. Nichol & Duke had just started dating a few months before purchased the business and have grown it from a 1400 sf spa to over 5300 sf!

What brings customers back to your business?

Our excellent customer service, amazing therapists and beautiful spa is what brings guests back to Kneaded Relief. We truly care about our guests and their wellness.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

What makes your business a good place to work?

Since the owners are also therapists, we know what it’s like to be in the treatment room. We have also worked many hours at the front desk. We have done it all! We pride ourselves on open communication, trust, and respect yet we like to have fun and humor is super important to us!

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

When we think about all the people in the community that we have been able to help over the years, it brings tears to our eyes. To see our guests leave feeling better physically and mentally, that means the world to us! This community has embraced us and supported us for the past 23 years and we couldn’t be more thankful and blessed!

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors? A warm smile, pleasant aromas and to leave their stress at the door.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

We are so honored and blessed to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice for Best Spa! This past year has been a very challenging time for our business and we are truly thankful for the support we have received.

What are you most proud of?

We are so proud of our team! They work so hard each and every day to help us bring Kneaded Relief to every guest. We couldn’t ask for a better group of people to work with!

What is your secret to good customer service?

Open communication and understanding our guests’ needs. We may not be able to please 100% of the people, 100% of the time but we sure do try! And we really do care.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Kneaded Relief holds our own Silent Auction every year to benefit the National Kidney Foundation of WI. We do this in honor of our Spa Coordinator, Janelle Waterman, who lost her battle with a rare Kidney Disease in 2005 at the age of 27. Kneaded Relief also typically donates gift cards to a variety of charities through Silent Auctions. However, we have had to put that on pause this past year.

How do you build trust with clients?

Honesty and open communication is really the only way to build trust. Trust is the foundation of any relationship.

What makes you popular?

Since our Spa is located on a restored prairie, we have a lot of visitors that like to walk the prairie and visit the Farmer’s Market at the Agora. We also have guests that like to arrive early to their appointment to read a book or curl up in our Relaxation Retreat.

What makes your business popular with families?

We have guests that trust Kneaded Relief to provide services to their children which is an honor to us.

FAVORITES

ANiU Salon & Spa Rejuvenation Spa

Best Tanning Salon Sun Tan City

7327 West Towne Way, Madison, WI 53719 (608) 827-8884 Address: 4327 E Towne Way, Madison, WI 53704 (608) 242-7715 www.suntancity.com

FAVORITES

Cost Cutters Studio Z Salon/TanSpa Wisconsin State Journal

Best Tattoo Salon Blue Lotus Tattoo and The Piercing Lounge

Number of Years in Business: 26 years 458 W. Gilman Street, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 284-0870 www.tattoomadison.com

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

Having worked with the people of the Dane County for more than 25 years, we know that this community consists of some of the most friendly, creative, and down to earth individuals imaginable. Over the years, we have built some truly enduring relationships within this community and have been fortunate enough to pour our energy back into the community whenever the opportunity arises. Through the COVID pandemic especially, we saw so much support and goodwill from our client base, and we cannot thank them enough for it.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Our mission always has been to provide distinctive quality and unparalleled customer service as we strive to gain the respect and trust of our customers. We treat each client as an individual and never stop working towards this mission.

Here at Blue Lotus, we strive to provide a safe, inclusive experience for all. Regardless of which location our clients go to, they can always expect to be greeted with a smile (under the mask for now) and treated with respect. This is not the scary tattoo shops from the movies, we want every person who pursues our services to feel welcome and to consistently attempt to maintain an atmosphere of approachability.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Despite all the tough tattoos and piercings our employees sport, we’re just a gang of lovable weirdos, and pretty nerdy ones at that.

What brings customers back to your business?

At Blue Lotus Tattoo & The Piercing Lounge, it is not just about the result, it is about the process. Each member of our team works diligently to provide a complete and enjoyable experience to every client who walks through our doors. Every tattoo, every piercing, is a collaborative process between our body modification professionals and their clients. The ability to work with the practitioner to create a unique, one-of-a-kind experience is what keeps our loyal clients coming back for more.

What makes your business a good place to work?

At Blue Lotus Tattoo & The Piercing Lounge, there is a safe and inclusive space for employees and clients alike. Everyone is welcome to express themselves as their most authentic self and is supported by their peers.

We are humbled and grateful to have been chosen as Madison.com’s People’s Choice award winner. This accolade means so much because it comes directly from the community we serve. Without the support and patronage of our clients, we would not be able to wake up and do what we love every day. Thank you to the people of the Dane County community, this truly motivates us to continue working to keep the trust you have invested in us.

What are you most proud of?

There are too many things to choose from, so rather than one specific accomplishment, we choose to take pride in our continued pursuit of excellence. We know that there is always room for growth and development, and we welcome every challenge as an opportunity to learn how to better serve our loyal patrons. We are proud of the impact each of our employees have daily. We are proud of our relentless pursuit of superior service. We are proud that you chose us Madison!

What is your secret to good customer service?

In our years of service, we have learned that there is not really a secret. The

Escapade Salon thanks you for voting us #1 in 3 categories TOP HAIR SALON TOP HAIR STYLIST WITH RENEE OLSON TOP BARBER SHOP

4102 LIEN ROAD, MADISON • (608) 241-1966 • www.escapadesalon.com Wisconsin State Journal

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Local Businesses drive Tourism

hile sometimes you may wish that your favorite local restaurant or shop remains a hidden gem in your town, tourism dollars can create significant benefits for the business owner and community.

GREENSHOOT MEDIA

Thanks to the internet, out-of-towners can seamlessly research locally owned outlets with review sites and decide to stop by while they’re in the area. As word spreads about the available unique products, don’t be surprised to see people traveling into the neighborhood to check out the services. This is one of the best ways businesses can organically grow their loyal customer base. You can do your part to increase your local business’s reputation by sharing your experiences online and recommending the shop to family and friends. When an area is flush with tourism spending, it becomes an enticing location for additional entrepreneurs to set up shop and give the community more character. Take a look at the positive 18

benefits created when non-locals visit the area to get a taste of the neighborhood’s flair.

Creates More Jobs

As businesses welcome a surge of customers and attention into their shops, an increased need for employees is created. Many entry-level positions open the door for teenage employees seeking their first job without previous experience. According to the World Travel Tourism Council, around half of all employees in the hotel, catering and hospitality sector are under 25 years of age. Here are some other interesting statistics regarding the tourism industry from IBISWorld. • In terms of employment, the tourism sector ranks first in accommodation and food services,

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

the third-largest overall in the United States. • There are 5,459,152 people employed in the industry as of 2021. • The average tourism business in the U.S. employs 12.1 employees. Between 2016 and 2021, the field increases at a rate of 0.4% each year.

Taxes Stay Local

In addition to gaining revenue from cash spent by out-of-town visitors, tourist taxes also maintain the community’s funds. Many states and municipalities enact a lodging tax that property owners and managers must pay when renting a room or property. The costs are often levied to the person staying and retained by the state for distribution. Wisconsin State Journal

key to good customer service is a lot simpler that some people realize. If you’re passionate about what you do, if you treat each person like the individual they are, and show up every day, the rest will follow. Never become complacent, and never forget that the customers are to thank for your continued success.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We continue to invest in our community, just as they invest in us and our services. We have done fundraising programs for people and animals alike. We have found families in need within the community and provided them with holiday experiences. We don’t just provide material benefits to the community, but also work to change the perception of the body modification industry and build relationships with positive dialogue within the community whenever possible.

How do you build trust with customers?

We have an established legacy within Dane County, and some clients inherently trust us because of it, but we do not let this make us arrogant. It is paramount that we return the investment of our clients with an investment of our time, energy, and respect. From custom tattoos to anatomy dependent piercings, we treat each project as one of a kind.

What makes you popular?

Without boasting, we believe it boils down to quality. Our clients know that when they work with us, they are getting quality customer service, quality products, and quality results.

What makes your business popular with families?

We love working with families. Whether it’s mother daughter tattoos, or a present for father’s day, or matching nostril piercings, we love seeing how our services can strengthen that bond! The family that mods together stays together, after all.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

People may not know that Dragonfly is owned by a local family and not a franchise or corporate owned business!

What brings customers back to your business?

I think our clients continue to return because we genuinely care about them and their experience in our studios. We truly take the time to listen and to make them feel like Dragonfly is a second home!

FAVORITES

What makes your business a good place to work?

Best Yoga Studio

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

Steve’s Tattoo & Body Piercing Ultimate Arts Tattoo

Dragonfly Hot Yoga

Number of Years in Business: 10 years 610 Junction Road, Madison, WI 53717 6227 McKee Road, Fitchburg, WI 53719 309 West Johnson Street, Madison, WI 53703 2824 Prairie Lakes Drive, Sun Prairie, WI 53590 (608) 203-9000 www.dragonflyhotyoga.com Dragonfly is designed with everyone in mind. We are breaking down the barriers, stripping away any preconceived notions about yoga & fitness, and creating yoga & fitness for all. Yoga is a practice, a journey. It is not meant to be perfected and it is not a competition. The reasons we come to our mat differ for us all. This is your space and your time and we are here to guide and support you.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

We Welcome Everyone. We believe yoga is for EVERY SHAPE, EVERY SIZE, EVERY PERSON. You will not be judged in our studio—not by how flexible you are, not by what you wear, not by how much you weigh, not by how much yoga you’ve done. Local Favorite. We are honored to be voted the Best of Madison for 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020, Isthmus’ Mad Fave for 2018 and 2019, and Brava Magazine’s FAVE for 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018. Thank you Madison!

Wisconsin State Journal

Personal Attention. We have Yoga Advisors on-staff to help you on your way— to answer your questions and to listen to your feedback. We truly care about you and your Dragonfly experience! Clean & Inviting. Our hygienic & modern studios are designed to be warm and welcoming because that’s who we are. Choice & Variety. We are a yoga studio first, but we also offer fitness classes should you ever want to try something different. With over 100 classes of yoga & fitness every week, Dragonfly is all you need! Change Your Life Yourself. We believe in growing into a practice that is truly yours—not ours, not an instructor’s. Come for yourself, for your yoga, your practice. Our Community. We think our yogis are awesome, the friendliest, and most welcoming you will find! Our Instructors. We hire instructors who believe in Dragonfly’s philosophy that yoga is for everyone. Our instructors see you as equals—all experiencing the power of yoga. We’re Affordable. For only $119/month, you can enjoy unlimited yoga, barre and fitness classes, and you’re always welcome to sit in one of our beautiful lounges where you can enjoy complimentary tea and conversation with friends. We’re all about community and providing you a beautiful space to experience the power of yoga and to have an oasis from your daily grind.

Our employees know that we value community over competition and that supporting one another is paramount. Instructors and desk staff are there for each other and it’s wonderful to see everyone jump in to help or give words of encouragement. We are a family! I love so many things about having Dragonfly in the Madison area community! Watching lifelong friendships form along with knowing how much Dragonfly has impacted so many lives throughout the years are two of the top reasons we’re so honored to be serving our community.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Customers can expect to feel welcomed by staff along with the warm orange and red colors in our studios. They can expect to not be judged and to feel comfortable being themselves!

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

Being voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice is an incredible honor. Dragonfly was solely created for the people in the Madison area and to be honored by those people means the world to us!

What are you most proud of?

There are so many things to be proud of over the last ten years, it’s hard to pick just one! I think I am most proud of the amazing community our clients and staff have created and how generous our community is in giving back.

What is your secret to good customer service?

We genuinely listen to our clients and our management team is constantly bringing any questions or concerns to the table and we truly work through all issues related to the customer experience. That’s so important to us.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We are always donating class passes to fundraisers/events, we hold fundraiser classes for local non-profits, we have a Yoga Love program where we provide yoga at no cost for those who need it, we sponsor local events, and we have donated thousands to local charities since 2011!

How do you build trust with clients?

I think we do this by being consistent and honest with how we run Dragonfly. I believe in being transparent and in clients and staff understanding our choices and our company values.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

What makes you popular?

Dragonfly is a non-judgmental space for people to move and heal their bodies at their own pace. The healing power of yoga is undeniable and when you add genuine love for and kindness towards others, people want to experience that over and over.

What makes your business popular with families?

Dragonfly is a place for self-care and allows people a space to self-forgive, to breath, to manage stress, to manage aches and pains, and to just help manage day-to-day obstacles. Our clients are able to take what they gift themselves on their mats and put it back into their everyday lives and families/ work/school, etc.. We also witness so many families, spouses, partners, etc. practice together and we love that!

FAVORITES

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

We have 2 locations in Madison: one downtown (1402 Regent St.) and one on the Eastside (5225 High Crossing Blvd.) We are also located in the bakery section at numerous grocery stores in the Dane County area.

What brings customers back to your business?

Our customers know they are getting quality and an enjoyable experience when they step foot in our bakery.

What makes your business a good place to work?

We are a family owned business with 3 generations involved. We have personal relationships with our employees that makes them feel like family. Madison is such a unique area and businesses like ours is what makes is such a special place.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

FOOD & DRINK

Customers know they are getting the best donuts in the area at Greenbush.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

Best Bakery/Bread Store Greenbush Bakery

Winning awards is a reminder to us of all the hard work that we put into the business and the awesome support that we have from the community.

What are you most proud of?

The continued growth of our business and all of the positive feedback that we receive.

Number of Years in Business: 25 1402 Regent Street, Madison, WI 53711 5225 High Crossing Blvd., Madison, WI 53718 (608) 257-1151 Kosher Bakery specializing in donuts and fritters.

We focus on making a high quality product and doing what we do best.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

Inner Fire Yoga Harbor Athletic Club

www.greenbushbakery.com

What makes you stand out from the competition?

What is your secret to good customer service?

Being personable with customers. We never want to be like a chain were you don’t always get that interaction.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We are constantly donating to charities. We do a lot of work with donations for shelters in the area like Luke House, St. Vincents, Sunshine Place, etc. as well as a lot of the schools in the area. We have also partnered with Karben 4

VOTED #1

Thanks Madison for voting us the #1 BBQ and one of the area’s top caterers

(608) 640-5000 3001 N. Sherman Ave. (across from Warner Park) beefbutterbbq.com 20

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Wisconsin State Journal

Brewing creating a Donut Beer with 10% of the sales going to the Dane County Humane Society. The first Saturday of every month they have a pop up beer sale at our High Crossing location and we also donate 10% of our sales from that day to the Dane County Humane Society.

How do you build trust with clients, patients, or customers?

We have so many regular customers that we have built relationships with over our 25 years of being in business.

What makes your event (or attraction) popular?

You are able to see and smell the donuts being made at both locations.

What makes your business popular with families?

We have so many different options that everyone in the family can find a donut (or 2) that they will enjoy!

FAVORITES

Clasen’s Bakery Lane’s Bakery & Coffee

Best Bar I/O Arcade Bar

Number of Years in Business: 3 924 Williamson Street, Madison, WI 53703 www.ioarcade.bar I/O Arcade Bar is Madison’s place for drinker’s with a gaming problem - featuring 20 tap beers, craft cocktails, 21 pinball machines and over 50 classic arcade games, I/O is a place for nerds of all kinds. We are a 21+ venue, and host all-ages time every Sunday from 11am-1pm.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Besides the video games, our staff is made of industry professionals who strive to make I/O a fun, friendly, and inclusive environment. Plus, there isn’t another happy hour downtown with skeeball.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

We’ve moved! During the COVID-19 pandemic, we packed up our games and moved to 924 Williamson Street - the former location of Plan B. It gives us twice as much space, and a parking lot!

What brings customers back to your business?

Some people come back to beat their high scores, some come back for the nightly drink specials, and some come back for the friendly atmosphere. There’s really something for everyone here.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

Willy Street is home to tons of great businesses and we’re proud to be a part of it. The neighborhood is full of wonderful folks, including tons of young families that can enjoy our all-ages time every Sunday from 11am-1pm.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

A tidal wave of nostalgia. Bring your piggy banks and put those quarters to good use - most games are just 25 cents a play.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

It’s great to be back! This is the second time we’ve been able to take home this award, and it shows that we have a community that supports us, likes what we’re doing, and helps us continue to grow.

FAVORITES

Eno Vino Downtown Nitty Gritty

Best BBQ Beef Butter BBQ

Number of Years in Business: 4 3001 N. Sherman Avenue, Madison, WI 53704 (608) 354-3613 www.beefbutterbbq.com Wisconsin State Journal

Beef Butter BBQ and Meat Market. We offer Texas Style Smoked Meats and are open daily 10am-8pm. We cater for businesses, weddings, graduation parties, etc. We cater most all the top businesses in Dane County for special events. When other restaurants want to treat their employees, they call Beef Butter BBQ to cater for their own parties. We have a full meat market in house and make over 50 varieties of brats. Try us today.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Our Brisket is Award Winning. We are a BBQ and Meat Market. We make 50 different varieties of brats in house.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

We spend over $600 per month on just firewood for our smokers. We only use a special course salt and course pepper for seasoning on our smoked meats, all meats and sauces are gluten free.

What brings customers back to your business?

The food and the people. We have a lot of loyal repeat customers that some order the same thing all the time and some work their way through the menu. They also like the customer service they get. Thank you my friend.

What makes your business a good place to work?

First, people are paid well and they share all of their tips. People have to feel financial security to help relieve the stresses in life. Second, everyone is really friendly to each other. We are like family, and we love to interact with customers. Everyone knows what they are supposed to do and we help each other.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

The community has been great to Beef Butter BBQ and Beef Butter BBQ has given back to the community as detailed below. I live in the community and it is fun to have a business where I live.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

First, they can expect to smell the tasty aroma of smoked meats and see our vast Meat Market and BBQ. They can expected to hear “Hello My Friend” Have you been here before? Let us explain our menu to you.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

It means all of our hard work is appreciated, and that drives us to be even better and continue to exceed people’s expectations. We are proud of what we do and love our customers.

What are you most proud of?

We have fed over 300,000 people in 2.5 years. Won Best of Madison and People’s Choice. We have a great team that loves what they do, they love our customers and want to make people happy.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Always strive to exceed people’s expectations. Be the bright spot in people’s day. Great BBQ is not inexpensive, so you want them to enjoy their experience with food and service. We all visit a lot of other restaurants and we know what we like to experience, and we want to exceed our customers’ expectations.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Beef Butter BBQ is a FAN of the North Side of Madison. We delivered 200 Fans to People on the North Side who don’t have A/C or any fans, sometimes 9 people were living in an apartment with no fan. We feed over 300 people everyone year Smoked Turkey at Thanksgiving at the Beacon. We give 100’s of First Responder Meals to Police, Fire and Hospital workers during Covid.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

We fed 500 People for free at the Boys and Girls Club annual Fundraiser. We donate gift cards to charities that request them for silent auction fund raisers. We employ special needs people and train them so they feel they are a valuable contributor and they are.

What brings customers back to your business?

How do you build trust with customers?

We try to create an environment in which all employees are seen as equals and are integral to our success.

We explain what meats we buy, how we trim, smoke and season, then slice right in front of their eyes. We took extra precautions during Covid by installing needlepoint bi-polar ionization units in all of our HVAC, installed a 20’ conveyor to deliver food to people’s cars, put up plexiglass everywhere and package meals individually when requested for catering.

What makes you popular?

People hear about our award winning Beef Butter Brisket, a must try. They also like to shop our 50 varieties of house made brats.

What makes your business popular with families?

What family doesn’t enjoy great BBQ? Beef Butter BBQ has something for everyone. Dad’s (and kids) love our famous Beef Butter Brisket. Kids love our White Cheddar Mac N Cheese and Smoked Pulled Pork. Mom’s love our Smoked Chicken Breast either as a sandwich or sliced on a salad. Everyone loves to watch the Smoker Cam, the 20’ conveyor and our Jumbotron.

FAVORITES

North and South Seafood & Smokehouse Smoky Jon’s #1 BBQ

Best Breakfast Mickie’s Dairy Bar

Customers make return trips for numerous reasons, but we think that the number one reason is because our food ROCKS!!

What makes your business a good place to work?

What do you love most about having your business in this community? Our community is very supportive of ‘mom and pop shops’ and many would rather support us than a large corporation.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Customers can expect an immediate change of scenery reminiscent of a classic 1950’s diner. When they enter, they realize they are walking into a place with a lot history.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

We are incredibly grateful for being Madison.com People’s Choice for Best Breakfast. This honor encourages us to work harder to hopefully win again. Thank you voters!

What are you most proud of?

We are most proud of our employee retention and the longevity of some of our workers. We have a number of employees who have been with us for more than twenty years. This is a rare thing in the restaurant industry.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Our secret to good customer service is letting our employees be themselves. You won’t hear any scripted dialogue when you are served at Mickie’s Dairy Bar. Every employee has their own flare, and we believe that they should let it shine!

Number of Years in Business: 75 years 30 years under current proprietorship

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

1511 Monroe Street, Madison, WI 53711 (608) 256-9476

How do you build trust with customers?

We donate annually to local charities, fundraisers, and events. Our largest annual donation is to Porchlight Inc.

A Madison institutional diner known for serving generous portions, prompt friendly service, and its proximity to Camp Randall Stadium.

We build trust with our customers by maintaining a consistent food product made from scratch. It comes down to the small things. Line around the corner or not, we strive to make sure that the coffee you just ordered was freshly brewed and you are treated with a special dining experience whether it is your first visit or your twentieth visit.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

What makes you popular?

www.mickiesdairybar.com

Our food is made from scratch.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

Our coffee cake is fantastic and the recipe has been published more than once.

As they say, “location, location, location.” We are blessed to be right across the street from Camp Randall Stadium and a stones throw from the heart of the UW campus.

What makes your business popular with families?

Our business is popular with families because we offer a nostalgic experience. Shortly before the pandemic, we had a table of a women spanning five generations! It was wonderful to see the eldest tell the younger generations about her first time visiting Mickie’s.

FAVORITES

Pat O’Malley’s Jet Room Original Pancake House

Best Buffet Dorf Haus Supper Club

8931 County Hwy Y, Sauk City, WI 53583 (608) 643-3980 www.foodspot.com/clients/wi/ saukcity/dorfhaussupperclub

FAVORITES

Swagat Indian Restaurant Great Dane, Hilldale 22

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Wisconsin State Journal

Best Burger Dotty Dumpling’s Dowry

Number of Years in Business: 47 317 N. Frances Street, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 259-0000 www.dottydumplingsdowry.com Dotty Dumpling’s Dowry is a Madison institution favored by the locals since 1974. Located in the heart of downtown, Dotty’s offers award winning hamburgers, Friday fish fry, homemade soups and chili, fresh salads and so much more! Cozy up to a booth or the bar and pick from 24 Wisconsin craft beers on tap while enjoying some Blues or Motown music in the background. Dotty’s is a Madison tradition enjoyed by guests of all ages!

What makes you stand out from the competition? We’re a local institution that prides ourselves on providing high quality fresh food in a warm and welcoming environment.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? We started in 1969 in Des Moines, Iowa as a gift shop.

What brings customers back to your business?

What makes your business a good place to work?

We’re a family. And we appreciate, support and enjoy each other every day.

What do you love most about having your business in this community? Madisonian pride is like no other.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors? A better day.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice? An honor to be recognized in a community that has so many choices.

What are you most proud of?

Creating a positive experience for each person that walks through that door.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Be the light for your guest. You never know what’s going on in someones life. Make sure they leave happier than when they arrived.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We like to donate to local organizations like DAIS, River Food Pantry, UW Carbone, Canopy, Porchlight and more!

How do you build trust with customers?

Providing a consistent product and experience for our guests.

What makes you popular?

A local favorite for 47 years we want to continue this tradition.

What makes your business popular with families?

We believe that kids are just as important (if not even more important!) guests. We make sure they’re having just as an enjoyable experience as their care givers!

FAVORITES

Culver’s Oakcrest Tavern

Walking into Dotty’s feels like a big hug.

Madison’s Best Cosmetic Surgery Center

Featured services – • Botox, Dysport • Neck Rejuvenation • Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy • Lip Augmentation

2981 Yarmouth Greenway Dr, Madison lastingskinsolutions.com • (608) 661-0000 Wisconsin State Journal

• Leg Veins • Laser Skin Tightening • Mole Removal • Sun Damage & Skin Cancer Prevention

THANK YOU FOR VOTING FOR US PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

BRING ON

THE WINGS! THANKS FOR VOTING FOR US AS ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE VORITE PLACES FOR BOTH WINGS & LUNCH!

Best Catering Company Blue Plate Catering 706 S High Point Rd, Madison, WI 53719 (608) 827-7200

www.blueplatecatering.com

FAVORITES

Beef Butter BBQ Bunky’s Catering

Best Chicken Wings Chicken Licks

Number of Years in Business: 9 5508 County Hwy N, Sun Prairie WI, 53590

(608) 712-4280 www.facebook.com/ChickenLicks-127528870606718

Order Online at www.PizzaPit.biz

THE AREA’S BEST COFFEE SHOP

Thank you

for voting us #1

Chicken Licks is a cozy cash-only dive bar located between Madison & Sun Prairie specializing in spicy wings, as well as appetizers & standard bar fare. We are known for our homemade bleu cheese, original sauce, and dry rub. We’ve got great country views, great staff, and a very loyal local & regional following.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Simplicity. We’ve got a straightforward menu and process. We know what we do well, we focus on it & we don’t muck up the works.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

Our house dry rub tastes great not only on our wings, but also on our appetizers, burgers & sandwiches! Any customers who love spice & are looking to bring their wings to the next heat level, order your wings “Sexy” (not listed on the menu). Carry-Out is always an option if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, give us a call!

What brings customers back to your business? Our signature dry rub, original sauce, and bleu cheese recipes (the bleu recipe being handed down by the owner’s mother). Also, the great sunset views!

4604 Monona Drive Madison 608-441-7673 rosiescoffeebarandbakery.com 24

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Wisconsin State Journal

What makes your business a good place to work? We’ve got a phenomenal team of staff, whom the ownership & regulars alike treat like family. We take care of each other & our customers, we work hard, and we have fun while doing it.

voted madison’s

#1 roMaNtic place to diNe

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

Sun Prairie is a uniquely tight-knit community that we are proud to have one foot in, and we are lucky enough to have our other foot planted firmly in the Madison scene. It’s very cool to be able to bring the two together.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Casual vibes, a dry rub scent to die for, and - if arriving during our peak hours - long lines, a densely packed dining room & slightly longer wait times. (Great excuse to have a beer while ya wait for your order!)

What does it mean to be voted Madison. com’s People’s Choice?

From our entire staff & ownership, thank you so much to our fantastic customers for voting us into the #1 spot! And a big thank you to Madison.com as well.

What are you most proud of?

The fact that our menu, our staff, and our process have remained largely consistent over the years. You know what to expect.

What is your secret to good customer service?

425 N. Frances, Madison • 256-3186 portabellarest.com

Great staff!

What makes your business popular with families?

We’ve got extensive outdoor seating & lawn space which is ideal for families, kids, dogs, etc.!

FAVORITES

Pizza Pit Buffalo Wild Wings

voted Best Lunch by Madison.com

Best Coffee Shop Rosie’s Coffee Bar & Bakery

Number of Years in Business: 7 4604 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716 (608) 441-7673

www.rosiescoffeebarandbakery.com All scratch bakery doing big cinnamon rolls to tiered wedding cakes, coffee, breakfast and lunch.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

All bakery done on site. We use JBC coffee roasters that has been voted in top 10 in the country.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

We have had a bakery making traditional South

Wisconsin State Journal

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

American pastry for the past 4 years. No one else in Madison does his product line.

Best Ethnic Restaurant

What brings customers back to your business?

Number of Years in Business: 20

Ha Long Bay Restaurant

The smile when they are greeted and the quality food and drinks.

1353 Williamson Street, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 255-2868

What makes your business a good place to work?

www.halongbaymadison.com

We are not a chain so all employees can unleash their creativity on many aspects of our business.

Thai, Laos and Vietnamese restaurant in Madison serving many kinds of Asian food for you to choose from.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

We serve real Asian food with good recipes and rare ingredients. You can enjoy our authentic Asian food without traveling.

There are many people I don’t think of as customers but as friends. People I could not imagine not being in my life.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors? A happy smile and quality food, coffee and bakery.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

I named Rosie’s after my Mom. July 13th would have been her 90th birthday, that was the day Mark informed me we won. It had special meaning to me.

What are you most proud of?

When I see employees learn new skills and be successful.

What is your secret to good customer service?

What makes you stand out from the competition?

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? We serve big portions with a good price that everyone can afford.

What brings customers back to your business?

Customers return to our business because of our customer service, delicious food and the wide variety of food options to choose from.

What makes your business a good place to work?

We have a good manager and nice staff that work well as a team.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Great customer service with large portion size servings and delicious Asian food.

What are you most proud of?

Keep a happy work environment.

We proud to serve our delicious Asian food and also our great customer service.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

What is your secret to good customer service?

I am the Wisconsin liaison for the National Association to Stop Guardianship Abuse. I am a speaker at the DC whistle-blowers summit. I am involved with the EARN project and the Catherine Falk Organization.

How do you build trust with customers? Be consistent and have integrity.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community? We make food donations to those in need.

How do you build trust with customers?

What makes you popular?

Our trained staff has excellent customer service.

Everyone needs coffee.

What makes your business popular with families? Sprinkles on baked goods.

What makes you popular? Good food and good service.

What makes your business popular with families?

FAVORITES Barriques Moka

Best Dessert Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Company

2322 Atwood Avenue, Madison, WI 53704 (608) 709-1046 1726 Fordem Avenue, Madison, WI 53704 (608) 241-2747 2685 Research Park Drive, Fitchburg, WI 53711 • (608) 283-9056 2831 Parmenter Street, Middleton, WI 53562 • (608) 203-5228 2531 Monroe Street, Madison, WI 53711 • (608) 284-7033 555 South Midvale Blvd., Madison, WI 53711 • (608) 441-5248 468 State Street, Madison, WI 53703 • (608) 255-5454 www.chocolateshoppeicecream.com

FAVORITES

Carl’s Cakes Nothing Bundt Cakes 26

The staff knows the menu very well. They are friendly, greet customers with a smile and make a positive first impression.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Best Asian food in Madison.

FAVORITES

Sa-Bai Thong Thai Cuisine Imperial Garden

Best Fine Dining Tornado Room Steak House

Number of Years in Business: 25 116 S. Hamilton Street, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 256-3570 www.tornadosteakhouse.com Upscale Supper Club/Steak House

What makes you stand out from the competition?

We have a unique building and atmosphere, along with great food and beverages.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? Private parties in the Corral Room. Late night menu.

Wisconsin State Journal

What brings customers back to your business?

Enjoyment of tasty food and fun beverages, customer service, ambiance, memories with friends and family.

What makes your business a good place to work?

Excellent quality of product to offer customers, team work within the staff, non corporate environment, involved owners, great benefits, tasty food!

What do you love most about having your business in this community? Bringing people together, we have a unique “supper club”charm.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

A friendly smile, great food, great beverages and professional service, consistency.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

Customers have spoken, our Tornado vision is being fulfilled and enjoyed.

What are you most proud of?

Smiling customer faces when enjoying the food and drinks.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Being sincere, well trained, enjoying the customer service atmosphere.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Neighborhood House charity food donations. Troy Gardens fundraiser involvement and donations.

How do you build trust with customers? Consistent good service and products.

What makes you popular? Ambiance, food and service.

What makes your business popular with families?

Guests enjoy celebrations here and the memories made.

FAVORITES

Louisianne’s Etc. Mariner’s Inn

Best Fish Fry Toby’s Supper Club

3717 S. Dutchmill Rd., Madison WI, 53718 (608) 222-6913 www.tobyssupperclub.com

FAVORITES

Quivey’s Grove Dorf Haus Supper Club

Best Happy Hour Wisconsin Union (manages Memorial Union Terrace) Number of Years in Business: Memorial Union Terrace: 93 years Wisconsin Union: 114 years

Memorial Union: 800 Langdon Street, Madison, WI 53706 Union South: 1308 W. Dayton Street, Madison, WI 53715 (608) 265-3000 http://union.wisc.edu The Wisconsin Union’s Memorial Union Terrace includes more than 20,000 feet that serve as a destination for dining and entertainment, including art activities, outdoor recreation, free film showings and free, live music. The

Wisconsin State Journal

Memorial Union Terrace and its iconic, brightly colored sunburst chairs have been part of Madison since 1928. Nearby Memorial Union also offers yearround entertainment, learning and dining opportunities. For more information about the Terrace, visit TerraceSummer.com.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

When customers purchase Wisconsin Union memberships and purchase items from Terracestore.union.wisc.edu, Memorial Union, Union South and the Memorial Union Terrace, they are making a difference in the lives of hundreds of University of Wisconsin-Madison students. Most of our events are planned by UW-Madison students, who have hands-on learning and leadership opportunities through our student leadership roles. While the Union is part of the University, we operate without any taxpayer dollars, so financial support through membership, donations and purchases is critical to our ability to make a difference and continue our more than 100-year legacy of creating experiences for a lifetime.

What makes your business a good place to work?

More than 1,000 student employees and 200 non-student team members make our work at the Wisconsin Union possible every day. Student employees enjoy flexible hours, competitive wages, student employee-exclusive celebrations, and eligibility for employee of the month awards. Students can also participate in open forums and a student employee representation group that ensure they have a voice in their employment experience. Fulltime employees can choose from among many health and dental insurance options, as well as, paid vacation, sick and personal days and a pension plan. We strive each day to create a fun, welcoming, inclusive and engaging work atmosphere.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

Our community and visitors have made us part of their Madison summers for 93 years. Since the very beginning, the greater Madison community has welcomed and engaged with our programming and buildings and supported us with their purchases, donations and membership. This community continually shows us that it appreciates all of the ways we provide experiences for a lifetime, from outdoor recreation to free and arts experiences, and that they are open to new experiences. The community inspires us to continually evolve, creating new menu items and hosting innovative, thought-provoking events. We also recognize and appreciate that we are part of a larger community that shares many of our values, including creating environments that are welcoming, respectful, and that honor and promote diverse perspectives and understanding.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

When patrons arrive at the Memorial Union Terrace, they are greeted by a lakefront view, brightly colored sunburst Terrace chairs across many levels of seating and the smell of our grills cooking menu items for patrons to enjoy at our lakefront dining options. Many days, the sights and sounds of events and activities join the space, including live, free performances of many music genres. The sounds of laughter and conversation also often fill the expanse of the Terrace.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

Thank you to everyone who voted for us for Madison.com People’s Choice Awards and to Madison.com for holding these Awards. Our patrons’ support makes the difference for us at the Wisconsin Union and helps us make a difference through our student leadership program and events and services at the Memorial Union Terrace and our buildings Memorial Union and Union South. We cherish every opportunity to be part of our patrons’ lives and that, each year, our community members and visitors join us for entertainment, learning, relaxing and dining. We are proud to be our customers’ campus living room and honored to welcome Wisconsin Union members and guests here each day.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Bringing unforgettable experiences to life is what we do, and we always aim to do so with enthusiasm, respect and kindness. Our team members are joined together by a shared goal of providing the very best service and helping all of our customers feel welcome.

How do you build trust with customers?

Over 93 years, we have worked to deliver world class events; delicious menus

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

to meet many dietary needs and wants; and facilities that are fun, safe, and welcoming. We are constantly listening, learning and evolving to enhance our patrons’ experiences and work to meet our community’s and visitors’ needs.

Best Lunch Café Hollander

What makes your attraction popular?

Each day of Terrace season has an experience for guests to enjoy, from outdoor recreation activities to art classes to free, live music. And the experiences don’t stop when the Terrace closes for the season. The fun, learning and connecting continues indoors at both Memorial Union and Union South, including some Terrace season favorites such as free, film showings and free, live music. Plus, guests can always simply take in the beautiful lakefront view that the Memorial Union and Memorial Union Terrace offer while enjoying delicious menu items from our on-site restaurants, market and cafe.

What makes your business popular with families?

The Memorial Union Terrace’s variety of events and activities make it a place people of all ages can enjoy. Each year, we work to create a calendar of experiences with people of all ages in mind, including family-friendly outdoor recreation opportunities. In addition, with a dozen dining options right on-site at Memorial Union, there’s something every family member will enjoy.

FAVORITES

Silver Eagle Bar & Grill Nitty Gritty

Best Local Brewery New Glarus Brewing Company

2400 WI-69, New Glarus, WI 53574 (608) 527-5850 www.newglarusbrewing.com

FAVORITES

Number of Years in Business: 6 701 Hilldale Way, Madison, WI 53705 (608) 237-3168 www.cafehollander.com European-inspired Grand Café that offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, weekend brunch and an array of craft and Belgian biers. Located in Hilldale Shopping Center, Café Hollander features an expansive outdoor patio, unique decor, and private dining spaces.

What makes your business a good place to work?

Behind our unique restaurant, from-scratch menus, and world-class biers stand our Lowlanders. We supply our teams with training to help them develop the skills they need to succeed. Café Hollander is a fast growing company and that means our employees tend to grow quickly with us too! We offer generous perks for our Lowlanders in addition to competitive pay.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

Though we are inspired by Belgian culture, we are Wisconsinites through and through. Madison and the Hilldale Shopping Center help us feel right at home, and in turn we immerse ourselves into the Sconnie culture with products such as our Spicy Badger Bloody Mary and merch line and locally crafted biers.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

We are so excited and honored that this community has voted us for best lunch!

Ale Asylum Vintage Brewing Co - Madison

VOTED ONE OF MADISON’S TOP PLACES FOR YOUR HOME IMPROVEMENT NEEDS

FAVORITE

Family Owned and Operated Since 1904

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Thank You For Voting Cardinal Heating & Air Conditioning Madison’s Favorite Electrician Madison’s Favorite Heating & Air Conditioning What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Because our community is so important to us, we feel it is equally important to give back. From participating in community fundraisers and tasting events to partnering with local non-profits, we like to share the love whenever possible.

FAVORITES

Ian’s Pizza on State Pizza Pit

Best Meat Market Ken’s Meats & Deli

5725 Monona Dr, Monona, WI 53716 (608) 222-6663 www.kensmeatsanddeli.com

FAVORITES

Knoche’s Market and Butcher Shop The Conscious Carnivore

3361 Brooks Drive, Sun Prairie 608.837.9367 www.cardinalhvac.com

GOAT BARBER CLUB THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

Best Pizza Salvatore’s Tomato Pies

10 N Livingston St, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 305-8885 912 E Johnson St, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 238-6040 5507 Monona Dr, Monona, WI 53716 (608) 305-8611 121 E Main St, Sun Prairie, WI 53590 (608) 318-1761 www.salvatorestomatopies.com

FAVORITES

Glass Nickel Pizza Co. Sugar River Pizza Co.

Wisconsin State Journal

ONE OF THE BEST BARBER SHOPS

Redefining the neighborhood barbershop goatbarberclub.square.site 7475 Mineral Point Rd., Madison (608) 571-3815 PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Best Place For A Romantic Dinner Porta Bella Italian Restaurant

Number of Years in Business: 53 years 425 N Frances Street, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 256-3186 www.portabellarest.com

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Guests will be greeted by a friendly, caring staff, great food and a place where they can hold a quiet conversation.

What are you most proud of?

Our staff and their dedications to providing good service and a quality product.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Our extensive training program and attention to detail.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Since 1968, Porta Bella has been known for its fresh pasta, Italian dinners, pizzas and seafood. Recipes that came from Madison’s Greenbush are still offered today in addition to new regional dishes found during our travels to Madison’s sister city, Mantova Italy. Cozy, upholstered booths are placed into small rooms to create a casual romantic atmosphere. What is more romantic than a wedding. Checkout Porta’s banquet facilities.

In the past, we have held fundraisers with River Food Pantry.

How do you build trust with customers? We treat our customers as family.

What makes your event (or attraction) popular? Guests come to Porta Bella to have a romantic dinner.

FAVORITES

Eno Vino Downtown Tornado Steak House

Best Seafood

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Our homemade Italian dishes in a romantic quiet atmosphere.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? Porta Bella has banquet facilities that can accommodate up to 200 guests.

Mariner’s Inn

5339 Lighthouse Bay Drive, Madison, WI 53704 (608)246-3120 www.marinersmadison.com

What brings customers back to your business?

The combination of good food, great service and a quiet atmosphere.

What makes your business a good place to work? Flexible schedules and great teammates.

FAVORITES

North and South Seafood & Smokehouse Madison Sardine

Thank You For Voting Ganser Construction

Madison’s People’s Choice For Residential Builders

608.643.4667 www.ganserconstructioninc.com 30

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Wisconsin State Journal

Best Steaks Tornado Room Steak House

Number of Years in Business: 25 116 S. Hamilton Street, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 256-3570 www.tornadosteakhouse.com See Bio on pages 26-27 Food & Drink: Best Fine Dining

Thank you for Voting Pure Wellness Chiropractic a People’s Choice Favorite Chiropractic Clinic!

FAVORITES

Smoky’s Club Delaney’s Steak Seafood Wine

Best Supper Club Tornado Room Steak House

Number of Years in Business: 25 116 S. Hamilton Street, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 256-3570 www.tornadosteakhouse.com See Bio on pages 26-27 Food & Drink: Best Fine Dining

FAVORITES

Smoky’s Club Toby’s Supper Club

Best Waitstaff Vintage Brewing Co.

Number of Years in Business: 11 674 S Whitney Way, Madison, WI 53711 (608) 204-2739 803 E Washington Ave, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 819-6241 600 Water Street, Sauk City, WI 53583 (608) 370-8200 529 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 250-0700 vintagebrewingcompany.com/madison We’re a family-owned and operated brew pub in beautiful Madison, Wisconsin, featuring “elevated Americana” cuisine and an eclectic array of highlyacclaimed house-made brews. Stop in for a beer and a bite and enjoy some Midwestern hospitality in our chilled-out retro ambiance. We love what we do & love sharing it with you!

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? We have a beer club! Every month a new beer clubonly brew is released, along with members-only discounts.

Wisconsin State Journal

Come see us soon! 601 Junction Road #5 • 608.820.1640 www.purewellnesschiro.com Online Organic Store Coming Soon

People’s Choice Winner Category: Best Accountant

People’s Choice - Winner!

We Believe in The Value of Relationships PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Thank you for voting Rock n Wool Madison’s People’s Choice for Best Winery

“Taste Wisconsin” A Wisconsin Winery making Wisconsin Wines with only Wisconsin Grapes. “Madison’s Farmland Back Yard”

608.635.4339 W7817 Drake Road Poynette, WI www.rocknwoolwinery.com

What brings customers back to your business?

The knowledge that they will have a fantastic experience every time they come. Our staff is welcoming, our food is the perfect comfort food, and our beers are top-notch!

What makes your business a good place to work?

Our culture. We are a team first and foremost! We support each other always and have fun whenever we can, both during and after work. Not to mention the discount!

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors? A welcoming smile and prompt service.

What are you most proud of?

We won Best Large Brew Pub at the Great American Brew Festival in 2019, along with a few gold medal brews we’re proud to feature on our menu!

What is your secret to good customer service?

We are very fortunate that most of our employees have been with us for years. Our staff operates like a well-oiled machine. In the rare event that a guest’s experience is not up to our standards, everyone is trained to immediately notify management so we get things back on track.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We donate to many local organizations throughout the year, from private silent auctions to benefit community members, to larger organizations throughout the Madison area. Our most recent donation went to LGBTQ Outreach of Madison.

How do you build trust with customers?

Being genuine is the easiest and best way to build trust and relationships with our guests.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

Having watched so many who did not know about wine, learn the joys and life experiences it offers.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

A big smile and sincere greeting. We want to show our appreciation for you walking through our doors whether you buy wine or not. Our goal always is to show you the best day ever.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

One, I still can’t believe it. But, it humbles me to think of all the people who believe in what we do and appreciate that we have taken the more difficult road in approaching our wines. Not too many feelings better in life than being appreciated.

What are you most proud of?

My staff. I always see reviews about how kind and knowledgeable they are. It’s not easy as we have a lot of wines and I change them up yearly. My staff, they have my passion for the wines and that speaks to our guests. I’m very lucky.

What is your secret to good customer service?

What makes you popular?

Great food, great beer, and great service!

Appreciation. People can go anywhere. Lots of choices. People work hard for their money. Lots of ways to spend it. We appreciate people stepping into our barn. We appreciate them and try our best to make sure they know they made a great choice with Rock N Wool.

What makes your business popular with families?

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We are very family-friendly! We have kid’s menus, crayons, and fish tanks galore to occupy your kiddo during your visit.

FAVORITES

Tornado Steak House Dorf Haus Supper Club Toby’s Supper Club

Best Winery Rock N Wool Winery

Number of Years in Business: 8 W7817 Drake Road, Poynette, WI 53955 (608) 635-4339 www.rocknwoolwinery.com Family winery nestled on a 40 acre farm with our tasting room in our 100 year old plus barn. Using only Wisconsin grown grapes for our wines, we want to offer the Wisconsin experience of a beautiful day with multiple indoor and outdoor seating areas as well as 9 holes of disc golf. We offer wine, craft beer on tap and an assortment of food options.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

We only use Wisconsin grown grapes for our grape wines and our fruit wines are 100% fruit, no flavorings or syrups.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

We offer craft beer on tap made at a local brewery, Hog House. On Saturdays and Sundays we open our diner for stone baked pizzas, flatbreads, Italian Beefs and pulled pork sandwiches.

What brings customers back to your business? Great wine and the friendly--family atmosphere.

What makes your business a good place to work?

Everyone is treated like the owners’ family and we have wonderful guests who help us have fun.

Wisconsin State Journal

We have had yearly events for Rett Syndrome. For every bottle of Giddy Bonnie dry red, we donate $5 toward Pancreatic Cancer Research. We have donated to some local events that have helped families in need. We are currently planning some events to help raise money for breast cancer and Dementia/ Alzheimers.

How do you build trust with clients, patients, or customers?

If you are not happy with something or had an issue, we refund with no questions asked. We stand behind every bottle we sell completely.

What makes you popular?

Our farm is relaxing. Whether the big barn or the large outdoor seating area, one can just sit back, sip a bit of wine and breathe in the Wisconsin air and let the hassles of life fall away.

What makes your business popular with families?

We are kid and dog friendly with lots of beautiful outside areas. We have a creek and pond that families can walk or they can take a walk through our trailed pine woods.

FAVORITES

Wollersheim Winery & Distillery Drumlin Ridge Winery

HEALTH & MEDICAL Best Assisted Living/Senior Care Oak Park Place

Number of Years in Business: 15 719 Jupiter Drive, Madison, WI 53718 4327 Nakoma Road, Madison, WI 53711 (608) 663-8600 www.oakparkplace.com PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Business and the Community

hrough hiring employees to giving back to their communities, local business owners play a formative role in shaping the region around them.

GREENSHOOT MEDIA

Many local small businesses are operated by people who grew up in the community and decided to open their shop or service in their hometown. This instantly gives residents a personal connection with the owner and employees and creates a trusting relationship when offering knowledge about their product. When you spend your money within their doors, think of it as neighbors helping neighbors. Small businesses are often considered the backbones of their communities. According to the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, when $100 is spent locally, $58 remains in the area to boost the economy. In contrast, if the same amount of money is paid at a chain store, the local area typically only keeps about $33. Find out other ways that local 34

business owners help the region in which they operate.

Community Involvement

Since many small business owners live and work in the community, they are likely to volunteer during local events, sponsor youth’s sports teams and mentor other entrepreneurs. A recent report from Small Business Trends also shows that about 52% of operation owners donate to charity, with 90% of their contributions benefiting local causes.

Environmentally Friendly

In many areas, locally owned businesses set up shop in the downtown area of their community. Owners cause less impact on the environment by revitalizing historic landscapes, updating to

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

energy efficient appliances and upgrading lighting systems rather than building new structures. The Environmental Protection Agency suggests that clusters of small businesses in a walkable area can reduce car usage while encouraging green transportation modes like walking or bicycling. Buying local also cuts down on demand for industrial production, which is responsible for about 50% of pollution in the United States.

Creates Local Competition

When businesses strive to compete with other companies and solve problems with innovative solutions, the entire community wins. Prices must remain competitive to stay relevant to consumers, and owner-operators will continue to reinvent their current products or services and push the envelope to create a more enjoyable experience. Wisconsin State Journal

Oak Park Place offers senior living options in two locations in the Madison area - one on the east side in the Grandview neighborhood and the other on Madison’s west side in the Nakoma neighborhood. Those who call Oak Park Place home enjoy the comforts and privacy of their apartments with the convenience of activities and events just outside their door. Neighbors quickly become like family, providing a true sense of community.

What are you most proud of?

Families find peace of mind knowing their loved ones have moved to a senior living community where purpose and meaning is part of the everyday life of Oak Park Place.

FAVORITES

Agrace Age at Home | In-Home Senior Care Attic Angel Community

Best Chiropractic Practice Madison Chiropractic

Number of Years in Business: 20 6000 Gisholt Drive, Suite 102, Madison, WI 53716 2005 North Sherman Avenue, Madison, WI 53704 2110 Fordem Avenue, Madison, WI 53704 (608) 221-1597 | www.madisonchiro.com Quality care, close to home. Madison Chiropractic offices are all about convenience, comfort and providing a quality, comfortable treatment experience for people in pain. But, as importantly, people who want to stay strong, active and healthy their entire lives.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Madison Chiropractic’s doctors and staff are know for the convenient, quality care they provide at each location.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? How much fun being a Chiropractor is!

What brings customers back to your business?

Patients see us not just for pain relief, but to improve their quality of life.

What makes your business a good place to work?

Great people! Great attitude. Knowing that we are making a positive impact in our patients lives.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

The people of Madison have a great attitude about their health. A vibrant community is enjoyed by vibrant people!

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors? A welcoming smile and to be treated like family.

Best Cosmetic Surgery Center Lasting SkinSolutions

Number of Years in Business: 22 2981 Yarmouth Greenway Drive, Madison, WI 53711 (608) 661-0000 www.lastingskinsolutions.com Non-invasive Face and Body Rejuvenation Center including laser treatments for skin tightening, facial redness, pigmentation and wrinkles, along with keeping the skin youthful and natural with Botox and long-lasting non-surgical facial shaping fillers. We are also passionate about keeping your body healthy on the inside with a wellness program helping to address your internal body’s balance.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

We are real people addressing your real concerns offering the widest array of real solutions!

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

We have so many treatment options! From injectables such as Botox and fillers, laser treatments for acne, Rosacea, sun damage, and more, blemish treatments to remove moles, and skin tags, skin tightening treatments, body contouring to reduce fat, tighten skin and tone muscles, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, Platelet Rich Plasma for assisting the healing process and women’s health such as laser vaginal rejuvenation to help with stress incontinence!

What brings customers back to your business?

Our skill and our team. We are experts in our field, but we are also relatable, approachable and friendly. We care about you and want you to receive the BEST results.

What makes your business a good place to work?

Our staff! We are a family. We truly care about each other and are very supportive of not only our clients needs but the needs of each other so we can be our best for our clients. We aren’t just clocking in, we are excited to get to work and share what goes on in our lives with each other. This camaraderie spills into how we care for our clients.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

I grew up in Wisconsin, so this is home. Having been raised in the area I love that I have my woman-owned business here and am able to support the greater Madison community.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Friendly smiles, a caring atmosphere, our desire to truly get to know you, and listen to your concerns and then be able to truly find the best option to meet your goals.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

This is our eleventh year of being voted as “Best” by the people of Madison. Its always special - Thank You Madison!

What are you most proud of?

Each office location has amazing staff!

What is your secret to good customer service? Listening to people. Their joys and concerns.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

For years Madison Chiropractic has co-sponsored “Safety Saturday” with the City of Madison Fire Department.

How do you build trust with patients? Quality, direct communication is the key.

FAVORITES

Pure Wellness Chiropractic LSM Chiropractic Wisconsin State Journal

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

We are so excited to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice winner! This is the first time I have participated so to win means so much. Thank you, Madison!

What are you most proud of?

Wow, so much! I don’t think I can just list one thing. First, my team. Without them I’d be lost. The support, dedication, and energy they put in everyday is amazing. I love them! I’m so proud of how far Lasting SkinSolutions has come too. 22 years in business! And my clients - I have the best clients and feel like a family member is coming in to visit.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Being honest and truly caring for who walks in the door. I’m not going to “sell” someone a service they don’t need. And I’m going to give my professional advice on what I think they should do to address the concerns they presented.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Being an avid pilot, most recently Kim has been involved in planning an outreach program called “Girls in Aviation” encouraging girls 8-13 to know they can do anything they want in this world...including fly an airplane! Lasting SkinSolutions created a program called “Saving Faces” where they are dedicated to working with individuals in the community who have suffered circumstances beyond their control that have threatened their self-esteem and confidence. These circumstances have limited them from realizing their full potential. Lasting SkinSolutions offered complimentary treatments that promoted positive self-image to those in the community that needed it the most.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

How do you build trust with clients?

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

By sharing results from treatments I’ve done for other clients, by talking openly and honestly with them, by being real - a real person with real concerns of my own and discussing what I did and didn’t do.

We are focused on our company culture, to ensure that we do the right thing for our staff who take care of our patients. We have won Madison’s Top Workplaces for consecutive years by valuing our people!

What makes your business popular?

What brings customers back to your business?

entire family. Lifetime treatment planning is our philosophy and is supported by the top notch customer service and clinical care. We are big enough to get the job done but small enough to care for our patients like family. The benefit of being a large practice with outstanding resources while being your hometown dentist supports the best lifelong results for our patients.

We are in a great location with ample, easy to access parking. We are a standalone center so you don’t have to worry about crowds or difficulties getting in. And the inside of our building is beautiful!

The family feel. Our staff care for our patients how they would care for their own family members.

What makes your business popular with families?

Our people. Our people are what make First Choice Dental great and there is no shortage of appreciation and gratitude for all our staff. We really are a family here!

We are able to treat mothers, fathers, daughters, sons, grandparents, aunts, uncles... you name it, we have something for almost everyone!

FAVORITES

UW Health Transformations Parfitt Facial Cosmetic Surgery Center

Best Dental Practice First Choice Dental

Number of Years in Business: 25 440 Science Drive, Suite 100, Madison, WI 53711 1809 E. Washington Avenue, Madison, WI 53704 138 Junction Road, Madison, WI 53717 621 S Park Street, Madison, WI 53715 1050 Regent Street, Madison, WI 53715 7780 Elmwood Avenue, Middleton, WI 53562 5950 Seminole Centre Ct., Fitchburg, WI 53711 1300 Nygaard St. Stoughton, WI 53589 140 N. City Station Drive Sun Prairie, WI 53590 119 Wilburn Rd., Sun Prairie, WI 53590 927 N. Main Street, Verona, WI 53593 1141 Simon Crestway, Waunakee, WI 53597 (608) 308-2950 www.firstchoicedental.com Locally owned dental practice with 11 locations in Dane County. General family restorative care supported by in-house specialist allow us to care for your

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

What makes your business a good place to work?

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

The Madison and surrounding communities are home to our staff and patients. There really is a small town aspect to Dane County that is hard to come by. Our internal company philosophies are built to mirror a small town supportive community feel.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

The best customer service! Coming to the dentist is not always an enjoyable experience. Our staff put our patients at ease and immediately help to make their dental experience a great one. From our front desk to our clinical staff; they are experts in calming patients to make an appointment feel stress free.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

To us it means our patients see and applaud the hard work our staff puts in every day to make First Choice Dental a place where patients feel cared for. We have the best staff in Dane County!

What are you most proud of?

We are most proud of the amazing community we have within the four walls of First Choice Dental that has created an amazing place for our patients to be cared for. The hardwork, passion, dedication and care our staff put in each day is remarkable.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Take care of and appreciate your staff! They love what they do therefore that translates to the best patient experience.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We have some staff who consistently donate their time to local dental causes to help those in need. We often donate materials to shelters and organizations that help our less fortunate community members.

Wisconsin State Journal

How do you build trust with patients?

Clear communication about our high standard of care philosophy. We do everything we can to explain to our patients what they can expect. From their new patient appointment to scheduling a procedure; our clinical and administrative staff are always here to help.

What makes your business popular with families?

First Choice can see patients of all ages! It is a convenient spot for mom or dad to get their teeth cleaned and make an appointment for their children on the same day. Our specialty care is another family care convenience. From orthodontic treatment, endodontic treatment, periodontic treatment to oral surgery; we have our bases covered!

FAVORITES

Affordable Dental Care, Inc. Dental Health Associates of Madison

Best Eye Care Facility Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin

Number of Years in Business: 45 years 3051 Cahill Main, Fitchburg, WI 53711 (608) 661-7200 www.ghcscw.com GHC-SCW is a non-profit, member-owned health plan providing high-quality health care services, including primary care and specialty care to over 75,000 members living in and around Dane County, Wisconsin. Members have access to the extensive services of our Hatchery Hill Eye Care Center and top-of-theline eye wear, sunglasses and contact lenses.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

We are a non-profit member owned cooperative that provides high-quality care that centered around our common values: Patient-Centered, Quality Driven, Innovation, Community Involved, and Not for Profit Cooperative.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? We are a non-profit cooperative! When we share a common purpose, a common voice and a common vision, we are better together.

What brings customers back to your business?

We aim to always provide superb care and impeccable service.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

We have established roots with over 45 years in Dane County. Our staff have a passion for serving people’s eye care needs and their dedication to our members truly shows.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

GHC has the first and only money-back experience guarantee in Wisconsin. The GHC Experience Guarantee is a promise that every patient and member gets the best experience every time.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

We are so excited and honored to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice! We hope new GHC members and other members of the Dane County community will come check us out.

What are you most proud of?

GHC-SCW continues to be recognized as one of the highest quality HMOs in the country.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Our model focuses on supporting the needs of our patients/members and providing the best in safe, high quality coordinated care.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

When we join with our community to further the causes for which we share a common concern, we are better together. We are proud to promote programs that strengthen lives, and make our community a safer, stronger and healthier place to live and grow. GHC-SCW employees share their time and talent; and we recognize that the value of what we give is also what we gain – for our employees, our members and our community.

How do you build trust with clients, patients, or customers?

Our philosophy is that members and their eye care provider teams should participate in making meaningful decisions together that lead to better outcomes.

FAVORITES

Davis Duehr Dean UW Health Eye Care Services (Ophthalmology)

Best Hearing Aid Center Beltone Hearing Aid Centers

MADISON - WEST 5513 Odana Road ∙ (608) 256-6440 MADISON - EAST 4868 High Crossing Blvd. ∙ (608) 240-2202 DODgEvIllE 405 1/2 N. Iowa Street ∙ (608) 937-0353 WEST BARABOO 433 Linn Street (Hwy) 33 ∙ (608) 356-7792 BEAVER DAM 215 Corporate Dr. ∙ (920) 887-9621 FORT ATKINSON 528 Whitewater Avenue ∙ (920) 568-9166 RICHlAND CENTER 130 S. Central Avenue ∙ (608) 383-1633 JANESVIllE 2100 E. Milwaukee Street ∙ (608) 754-2561 OCONOMOWOC 405 E Forest Street ∙ (262) 354-8566 WATERTOWN 600 E Main Street ∙ (920) 206-0228 www.serigbeltone.com We offer more than just the best hearing aids and technology. Our goal is to be the hearing care partner for every patient that needs help with hearing or understanding. We have 17 locations in the South Central Wisconsin area. Including two in Madison. We also service several assisted living centers and offer virtual appointments.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

We are committed to knowing and treating each patient individually. No cookie-cutter approach here. Every patient is special and gets the best care and options for their hearing situation.

Wisconsin State Journal

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? We have been family owned since 1965, We have 3 generations of Hearing Professionals.

What brings customers back to your business?

Our approach to hearing care is appreciated and sought out. We get many referrals from satisfied patients recommending us to their friends and family.

What makes your business a good place to work?

We have the best team on the planet! We have been blessed to find people to join our team that genuinely care about helping others. A staff of trained and certified individuals dedicated to hearing care is a fun group to work with! This is reflected in our extremely low turnover with an average of 20 years experience.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

This is our hometown and we love taking care of our hometown patients! This community has supported us for 56 years and it has been our honor to serve the people of this great community.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Everyone says that they treat their customers like family, but we actually treat every customer like a new friend that we want to get to know. We value our relationships with our patients because without them, we can not create the customized hearing care that each one deserves.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

We are proud yet humble. It’s gratifying to be recognized, but we won’t let it go to our heads! We will never take our patients for granted.

What are you most proud of?

We are most proud when a patient leaves our office ready to enjoy a better quality of life because they have decided to address their hearing care with us.

What is your secret to good customer service?

We follow the Golden Rule: Treat people like they want to be treated: with respect and care.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We participate in the Beltone Hearing Care Foundation, created over 80 years ago to assist those individuals in need of hearing help who may not be able to access it.

How do you build trust with clients?

Patience, understanding and the best patient care in the business.

Best Imaging/Diagnostics Center UW Health University Hospital

600 Highland Ave, Madison, WI 53792 (608) 263-6400 | www.uwhealth.org

FAVORITES

Dean & St. Mary’s Outpatient Center UnityPoint Health Meriter Hospital

Best Ob/Gyn Facility SSM Health Dean Medical Group Number of Years in Business: 149

700 S Park Street, Madison, WI 53715 (608) 251-6100 | www.ssmhealth.com SSM Health is a Catholic, not-for-profit health system serving the comprehensive health needs of communities across the Midwest through a robust and fully integrated health care delivery system. The organization’s nearly 40,000 employees and 11,000 providers are committed to providing exceptional health care services and revealing God’s healing presence to everyone they serve.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

In 2019, SSM Health’s community benefit ministry totaled $425,714,092 across the four states we serve. This investment helps ensure access to health care for patients who are uninsured or underinsured, train the next generation of health professionals to care for those in need, and fund programs to address the most pressing health needs of our communities.

FAVORITES

UW Health West Clinic Associated Physicians

What makes your business popular with families?

Just as we are multi-generational so are many of our patients. We love to see the look on loved one’s faces when one of our patients are finally able to understand and communicate with them. What could be better than reconnecting family members?

Best Pharmacy Walgreens

www.walgreens.com

FAVORITES

UW Health Audiology Clinic Elite Hearing Centers of America

Best Hospital UW Health University Hospital

600 Highland Ave, Madison, WI 53792 (608) 263-6400 www.uwhealth.org

FAVORITES

SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital UnityPoint Health Meriter Hospital

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

FAVORITES

Fitchburg Family Pharmacy Hometown Pharmacy

Best Rehabilitation Facility Oak Park Place

Number of Years in Business: 15 719 Jupiter Drive, Madison, WI 53718 4327 Nakoma Road, Madison, WI 53711 (608) 663-8600 | www.oakparkplace.com See Bio on pages 33 & 35 Health & Medical: Best Assisted Living/Senior Care

Wisconsin State Journal

FAVORITES

UW Health Sports Rehabilitation Clinic SSM Health St. Mary’s Care Center

local Best Charitable Organization The River Food Pantry

Number of Years in Business: 15 2201 Darwin Road, Madison, WI 53590 (608) 442-8815 http://riverfoodpantry.org The River is South Central Wisconsin’s busiest food pantry. Serving over 1,000 diverse households each week, our services include free groceries for curbside pickup or delivery, freshly prepared to-go meals, and mobile lunches for children and adults in low-income neighborhoods. We also partner with local organizations to minimize food waste and improve access to reliable sources of food. Since opening in 2006, our vision has always been to achieve a fully nourished community.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

More than a food pantry, The River does so much more than provide food: • We offer other necessary essentials including personal care items, cleaning supplies, diapers, formula, pet supplies. • In 2020, The River rescued nearly 410 tons of food to nourish our community. Our food recovery efforts are thanks to dozens of local grocery stores, restaurants, food banks, food pantries, and other food retailers that partner with The River to recover both perishable and non-perishable food. • We organize a holiday gift program every year for clients.

What brings customers back to your business?

The top reasons clients come back to The River: Quality: In addition to nonperishable items, we focus on always providing fresh, healthy food, including fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, special dietary items (e.g., gluten-free), and more. Quantity: Each household receives over 100 pounds of groceries per visit or delivery. Frequency: The River invites households to receive groceries once a week and pick up to-go meals up to 4 days a week. Choice: We do our best to allow clients to choose their own groceries and seek regular feedback to improve our service. Customer service: Our staff and volunteers have built meaningful relationships with our clients. Each day, we live our core values: respect, compassion, community, caring and generosity.

What makes your business a good place to work?

Working at The River makes a difference in our community. Our team of 20 diverse employees, compassionate people who believe in The River’s vision of achieving a fully nourished community. Benefits include group insurance plans, a retirement plan, paid holidays and paid time off. In 2020, The River began offering mental health days and 8 hours of paid time off to volunteer at other organizations. Bonus: employees receive free lunch every day prepared by our professionally trained chefs and volunteers!

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

We absolutely love the generosity of this community. As the need for food assistance grows, The River has been able to meet that need because of our generous supporters. This includes thousands of volunteers, monetary donors, in-kind donors, community partners and food partners. We rely on financial support from individuals, businesses, faith communities, grants and service groups and we are committed to being good stewards of the funds receive. With only 2.5% in administrative costs, 97.5 cents of every dollar donated goes directly to getting food to our neighbors in need.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Whether they use delivery or curbside pickup, our clients can expect excellent service with a smile — even if it’s under a mask. We listen and do our best to accommodate households’ different needs because we realize there is no one size fits all when it comes to hunger.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

In a community of approximately 3,000 charitable organizations, we are extremely honored and humbled to be voted Madison.com’s People Choice! Winning this award is reassurance we have people’s trust to do what is best for our community, especially after all the sudden pivots made throughout the pandemic to ensure our neighbors stayed fed and healthy.

What are you most proud of?

We are most proud of the dedication of our supporters. With the community’s generosity, The River has grown from serving a handful of families to over 1,000 households every week in just 15 years. We have become a staple in the community for anyone facing food insecurity: children, seniors, veterans, families, people of color, people with disabilities or those who are homeless. We are nourishing Dane County together.

How do you build trust with clients, patients, or customers?

We continually strive towards building trust with our clients, volunteers, donors and partners by treating them with respect and transparency. We believe feedback is a gift. Because we regularly receive feedback, we can continuously improve to better meet our stakeholders’ needs. Through listening and responding, we have been able to overcome obstacles to help more people.

What makes your business popular with families?

In 2020, The River served a record 3.7 million pounds of food to over 6,000 Dane County households. Families can access the food they need in a way that works best for them by choosing from our free services—curbside groceries, deliveries to the homebound, to-go meals for entire households, mobile lunches for low-income neighborhoods, and a new online ordering system.

FAVORITES

Czar’s Promise St. Vincent de Paul

Best Customer Service Summit Credit Union

Number of Years in Business: 86 1709 Landmark Drive, Cottage Grove, WI 53527 (800) 236-5560 www.summitcreditunion.com See Bio on pages 66-67 Retail: Best Credit Union Wisconsin State Journal

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Cap Times Idea Fest returns for a fifth year of essential discussions, centered on how Madison and Wisconsin will respond to tumultuous changes. This year’s event will be a hybrid of virtual talks and in-person sessions at UW-Madison, featuring dozens of leaders in politics, journalism, business, culture and more. Visit captimesideafest.com for up-to-date information on tickets, speakers and scheduling.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Wisconsin State Journal

THANK

Many

YOU!

Tsaug!

THANKs!

¡Gracias!

THANKs a Bunch!

THANKs from all of us FOR NAMING HENRY VILAS ZOO MADISON’S

BEST PLACE FOR FAMILY FUN & BEST PLACE FOR A KID’S BIRTHDAY PARTY in the 2021 PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS!

We couldn’t do it all and remain one of the country’s only free zoos without all of you.

That’s why Henry Vilas Zoo is A Part of You!

henryvilaszoo.gov

FAVORITES

Best Local Band/Musician

Zimbrick Automotive UW Credit Union

Madison County

(608) 279-0438 http://madcounty.com

Best Hotel The Edgewater

1001 Wisconsin Place, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 535-8200 www.theedgewater.com

FAVORITES

The Madison Concourse Hotel and Governor’s Club Hotel Indigo Madison Downtown, an IHG Hotel

Best Live Music Night Spot Wisconsin Union (manages Memorial Union Terrace) Number of Years in Business: Memorial Union Terrace: 93 years Wisconsin Union: 114 years

Memorial Union: 800 Langdon Street, Madison, WI 53706 Union South: 1308 W. Dayton Street, Madison, WI 53715 (608) 265-3000 | http://union.wisc.edu See Bio on pages 27-28 Food & Drink: Best Happy Hour

FAVORITES

The Sylvee High Noon Saloon

7-piece high-energy original Country Showband out of Southern Wisconsin, striving to create an atmosphere and experience like no other.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Our loyal fans, and how they engage, and become part of every show.

What brings customers back to your business? The atmosphere.

What makes your business a good place to work? Easy - the fans.

What do you love most about having your business in this community? The people, the venues, local country radio.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors? Good memories made.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

We are grateful to have even been nominated alongside the other great artists. This is truly a result of our fans, and how great they really are!!

What are you most proud of?

We’re most proud of the people that we’ve gotten the opportunity to meet, the relationships that we’ve built, and the special moments that we’ve been able to be part of over the years.

What is your secret to good customer service?

It’s truly about the fans. Their response to our music, continuously shapes and transforms our show, what songs we keep, what songs we drop, how we engage them, etc.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Madison County has been fortunate to take part in many fundraising events over the years, including event for UW Carbone Cancer Center, American Family Children’s Hospital, Garding Against Cancer, Greater Bucky Open, and many more.

How do you build trust with customers? By being genuine and real.

What makes your band popular?

I hope it’s the music and the show atmosphere that’s created.

What makes your band popular with families?

Music is the best thing you can experience as a family. Melodies and memories intertwine and last a lifetime.

FAVORITES The Jimmy’s Garbage

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Wisconsin State Journal

Best Local Festival Taste of Madison

Number of Years in Business: 39 2995 Sub Zero Parkway, Fitchburg, WI 53719 (608) 609-5354 www.tasteofmadison.com Taste of Madison is the largest picnic on the Capitol Square. This flagship fundraiser features over 80 restaurants, 26 beverage stands, and four musical stages offering FREE entertainment all weekend. The Taste of Madison is a non-profit fundraising event and relies on the help of hundreds of volunteers. The event donates over $60,000 annually to local groups. In addition, Taste is responsible for over $7 million in direct spending in our community.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

The Taste of Madison is completely free event to attend (2021 is an exception due to covid). Over 250,000 people from all over our region attend the event to sample great food, listen to amazing music, and enjoy time with friends. It’s an amazing marketing opportunity for our community to show off how amazing Madison is. The amazing support of the community has kept this event going for 39 years!

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? That we are a fundraiser!! Taste of Madison is a fundraising event, owned by the non-profit Madison Festivals. To date the event has donated over $1.2 million back into our community. When the public attends and supports Taste of Madison they are directly supporting those living in our community.

What brings customers back to your business?

The Taste of Madison is a tradition for so many. It’s a great way to wrap up the Summer and welcome in Fall. It’s fun, it’s free, and it’s for a great cause!

What makes your business a good place to work?

Working for Madison Festival, Inc is amazing because all of our events (Taste of Madison, Madison Marathon, and Run Madtown) are fundraisers. We know that we are doing great things that benefit others and make our community stronger. I enjoy the flexibility of getting to think creatively and try new things!!

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

Madison/Dane County is so supportive and full of pride. We are proud of where we live, what we have to offer, and we want to share our great community with everyone. That level of love and dedication means that as a business we can always depend on the support of the community to help reach our goals! It’s a great place to live and work!

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

It is AMAZING!! After a year marked with challenges, cancellations, and uncertainty, we are thrilled to bring this incredible event back to our community, and that we can showcase the event at Breese Stevens Field, an ideal loca-

tion, with a professional team, adds to our excitement. After having to cancel the event in 2020 due to the covid-19 pandemic, hosting the 2021 event at Breese Stevens Field, a controlled environment, ensures that we will be able to host the event with a minuscule chance of cancellation. New in 2021, attendees will be required to purchase a ticket to the event. Purchasing a ticket to the Taste of Madison is a way to support the event and ensure that the Taste of Madison can return downtown in 2022. A portion of ticket proceeds are being donated to charity and event tickets are being donated to area first responders, healthcare workers, and local non-profits. Purchasing a ticket is a small way to show you believe in the event, the vendors, and our community, and are committed to the event returning to being a free festival downtown in 2022 and for many years to come!

What are you most proud of?

Continuously being able to donate thousands of dollars to charity. After having to cancel the event in 2020 we hosted the Taste of Madison Give Back Campaign and we were able to raise over $34,000. We donated those dollars to Second Harvest Food Bank and Cook It Forward. Knowing that we are making a difference in the lives of so many continues to be our proudest moments!

What is your secret to good customer service?

In general, just being nice is the key and treating people with respect. It’s more than just treating people the way you want to be treated, it’s treating people the way you would want them to treat your mom/kids/best friends. Be respectful! Smiling also helps!

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Madison Festivals, Inc. is a registered 501c(3) non-profit organization. Our purpose is to bring together people, business, and charities through worldclass events that positively impact the community. To date, Madison Festivals has donated over $2 million back into our community. We are proud of the community we live in and committed to making a difference locally. Every event Madison Festivals produces is a non-profit fundraising event and we are honored to partner with numerous local charitable organizations through our events. Madison Festivals owns and operates the Taste of Madison, Madison Marathon, and Run Madtown. Event profits are donated directly to our charity partners, event volunteer groups, granted through the MFI community grant program, and reinvested in the events. When you attend and support one of the above events you directly support people living and working in Dane County.

How do you build trust with customers?

Honesty! Always be honest! Admit when you’re wrong and apologize. Stick to your word and give credit where it’s due. And again, be nice and smile!

What makes your event popular?

Live music, great food, yummy drinks, and it’s outdoors! You can’t beat it!

FAVORITES

Art Fair on the Square Brat Fest

Best Local Museum Madison Children’s Museum

100 N. Hamilton Street, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 256-6445 www.madisonchildrensmuseum.org

FAVORITES

Chazen Museum of Art Wisconsin Historical Museum Wisconsin State Journal

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Best Place for a Kids Birthday Party Henry Vilas Zoo

702 S Randall Ave, Madison, WI 53715 (608) 266-4732 www.henryvilaszoo.gov

FAVORITES

Madison Children’s Museum Vitense Golfland

Best Place to get Married Olbrich Botanical Gardens

3330 Atwood Avenue, Madison, WI 53704 (608) 246-4550 www.olbrich.org

FAVORITES

Barnwood Events LLC Memorial Union Terrace

Best Place to Take an Out of Town Guest Wisconsin Union (manages Memorial Union Terrace) Number of Years in Business: Memorial Union Terrace: 93 years Wisconsin Union: 114 years

Memorial Union: 800 Langdon Street, Madison, WI 53706 Union South: 1308 W. Dayton Street, Madison, WI 53715 (608) 265-3000 http://union.wisc.edu See Bio on pages 27-28 Food & Drink: Best Happy Hour

FAVORITES

Olbrich Botanical Gardens State Street

Best Place to Work Zimbrick, Inc.

Number of Years in Business: Since 1965 1601 W. Beltline Highway, Madison, WI 53713 (608) 271-1601 | www.Zimbrick.com Zimbrick is a local, family-owned auto dealer. Whether you’re buying, leasing, maintaining or fixing a car – Zimbrick can help. In 1965, John Zimbrick purchased a Buick franchise and built his dealership around the philosophy of “Loving Care Service”. The Zimbrick family has grown to 16 franchises that of-

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

fer a selection of over 3,000 vehicles – including nearly 1,000 affordable used cars. Our service departments, body shops, auto glass and detailing departments service all makes and models.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Our mission is to help customers will all of their automotive needs by staying true to our six core values: • Integrity • Outstanding Customer Service • Continuous Improvement • Care, Concern and Respect for Employees • Responsible Individual Initiative • Strong Relationships with our Business Partners and Communities

What brings customers back to your business?

Zimbrick takes care of customers for the long term. We want to do more than just sell you a new vehicle. We want to take care of all of your automotive needs. We don’t take short cuts. As a result, we have both long-term customers and long-term employees.

What makes your business a good place to work?

We pride ourselves on cultivating a work culture that respects and inspires every member of our team. We reward individual performance and offer many opportunities to grow. There is no dead-end job here. Many of our managers are promoted from within. Employees receive on-going, paid training from Zimbrick, our Manufacturers, and The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Plus, you’ll be working in state-of-the-art facilities, decked out with advanced tools and equipment. Our dealership is closed on a lot of holidays that other dealerships are open, so you can spend time with your family. When you’re at work, you’ll enjoy a fun work environment where you are challenged and can laugh at the same time. To find out more about our comprehensive benefits, please visit the Careers page of Zimbrick.com. It includes videos where you can learn more about working for Zimbrick directly from our employees.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

Zimbrick has always been a family-owned business with strong ties to the local community. Our founder, John Zimbrick, understood the importance of giving back and the power it has to bring positive, measurable changes to the communities in which we operate and live. Mr. Zimbrick refers to this as “paying our civic rent”. We pay civic rent through in-kind, and financial donations, employee volunteerism, enduring nonprofit partnerships and much more. Zimbrick is proud to be recognized as one of the United Way of Dane County top 10 givers.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Zimbrick Customers can expect personalized attention. At Zimbrick, the customer sets the agenda and we listen and work within the parameters the customer provides. All you need to tell us is what you would like to accomplish today. A car dealership should never feel like a battlefield where you have to arrive wearing armor, ready to do battle to get what you want. You can expect Zimbrick employees to actively listen and be respectful of your time.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People Choice?

Winning a People’s Choice Award means we are living our core values. By nominating and voting for Zimbrick, customers are telling us that they see our commitment to Integrity and to Outstanding Customer Service.

What are you most proud of?

Zimbrick is most proud of our employees. Our staff is well-trained, experienced, and many of our employees have been working for Zimbrick for over 10 years—some up to 40 years before retiring. We celebrate the longevity of our employees. We know that if Zimbrick takes good care of their employees, they will stay with the company and in turn deliver Outstanding Customer Service to our customers. Zimbrick employs about 1,000 people. That is 1,000 Madison area families who live, work and play here in Madison. Together we try to make Madison a better place to live.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Buying a new or used car is possibly the 2nd largest purchase a customer will ever make. Our goal is to help you find the car that fits your needs. By ac-

Wisconsin State Journal

Join the Winning Team! Zimbrick is the People’s Choice Winner for Best Place to Work! If you’re looking for a workplace that values you and shows it, look no further than Zimbrick.

Zimbrick has current openings for Skilled and Non-Skilled positions, including: • • • •

Service Technicians Service Advisors Call Center Salespeople

• • • •

Detailers Customer Service Representatives Body Shop Technicians Accounting & Office Staff

Visit Zimbrick.com/careers

• See our entire list of open positions • Apply online • Watch videos and learn more about working for Zimbrick

Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vans

tively listening and exceeding expectations whenever possible, we reduce the stress of car buying and repair. We also make sure you know everything about how your new car works. We don’t just hand you the keys and send you on down the road. We walk thru your vehicle at delivery, and are here to answer questions you have after the sale or service is completed.

How do you build trust with customers?

We follow through. We do what we say we are going to do. The greatest compliment we can receive is our customer’s referring Zimbrick to their friends, co-workers, or family members.

What makes your business popular with families?

Families come in all shapes and sizes and each family has individual transportation needs. It is our job to listen and help customers narrow the field of choices available to them. So whether you need to haul sports equipment, tow a boat, are in charge of the car pool, help transport aging parents or have fur babies that travel with you – we can help you stay safe. Our customers rely on us for safe and reliable transportation. We protect their lives and their lifestyles.

Zimbrick Locations: 3 Body Shops: Zimbrick Body Shop at Fish Hatchery Road 1601 W Beltline Hwy, Madison, WI 53713 Zimbrick Body Shop at High Crossing 5421 Wayne Terrace, Madison, WI 53718

INFINITI of Madison 1601 W Beltline Hwy., Madison, WI 53713 Zimbrick European -- Mercedes-Benz & Sprinter 2300 Rimrock Road, Madison, WI 53713 MINI of Madison 310 W Beltline Hwy., Madison, WI 53713 Zimbrick Nissan 5330 High Crossing Blvd., Madison, WI 53718 Porsche Madison 2300 Rimrock Road, Madison, WI 53713 Zimbrick Volkswagen of Madison 1430 N Stoughton Road, Madison, WI 53714 Zimbrick Volkswagen of Middleton 7505 Century Avenue, Middleton, WI 53562

FAVORITES

Summit Credit Union University of Wisconsin-Madison

Zimbrick Body Shop at Stoughton Road 1707 N Stoughton Road, Madison, WI 53704

Best Retirement Community

Auto Glass Repair: Zimbrick Body Shop at High Crossing 5421 Wayne Terrace, Madison, WI 53718

Number of Years in Business: 15

Dealership Locations: All of these locations offer: New Cars, Used Cars, Oil Changes and Tires (except Zimbrick Honda Service Center which is a Service Only location) Zimbrick Acura of Middleton 7525 Century Avenue, Middleton, WI 53562 Audi Madison 2400 Rimrock Road, Madison, WI 53713 BMW of Madison 320 W Beltline Hwy., Madison, WI 53713 Zimbrick Buick Eastside 5402 High Crossing Blvd., Madison, WI 53718 Zimbrick Buick West 1601 W Beltline Hwy., Madison, WI 53713 Zimbrick Chevrolet 1877 West Main Street, Sun Prairie, WI 53590 Genesis of Madison 1809 W Beltline Hwy., Madison, WI 53713 Zimbrick GMC Eastside 5402 High Crossing Blvd., Madison, WI 53718 Zimbrick GMC West 1601 W. Beltline Hwy., Madison, WI 53713 Zimbrick Honda 1601 W. Beltline Hwy., Madison, WI 53713 Zimbrick Honda Service Center – Service Only 430 Grand Canyon Drive, Madison, WI 53719 Zimbrick Hyundai Eastside 5433 Wayne Terrace, Madison, WI 53718 46

Zimbrick Hyundai West 1809 W. Beltline Hwy., Madison, WI 53713

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Oak Park Place

719 Jupiter Drive, Madison, WI 53718 4327 Nakoma Road, Madison, WI 53711 (608) 663-8600 www.oakparkplace.com See Bio on pages 33 & 35 Health & Medical: Best Assisted Living/Senior Care

FAVORITES

Attic Angel Community Oakwood Village University Woods

people Best Accountant David Meicher Meicher CPAs

Number of Years in Business: 40 years 2349 Deming Way, Ste. 300, Middleton, WI 53562 1021 Quinn Dr, Ste 200, Waunakee, WI 53597 (608) 826-1900 www.meichercpas.com Established in 1981, Meicher CPAs, LLP has earned an unequaled reputation for professionalism, high quality service and attention to detail. Serving more than 4,000 clients and offering a full range of tax and accounting services. Meicher CPAs has extensive experience in a variety of areas.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Our success and longevity can largely be attributed to client and employee loyalty. We know we are “only as good as our next touchdown,” and we’re

Wisconsin State Journal

always striving to make real recommendations to help our clients better their financial lives. Our goal is that they will tell all their friends about us and never look for a new CPA again.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

Our industry is always changing the way things are done so there is a considerable amount of training, research and education that we are consistently doing to better ourselves.

What brings customers back to your business? We believe in the value of relationships and live that motto every day.

What makes your business a good place to work?

We invest in our employees’ training, advancement, and truly support a healthy work/life balance, so they never want to look for a new job again.

Thank you for naming us Madison’s choice for senior care!

What do you love most about having your business in this community? The people, we have an amazing community that really supports and help one another.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

(608) 276-4660 • AgeAtHome.org

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Meicher CPAs was built upon the value of client relationships, so every tax season our offices are full of clients for in-person meetings. Over the last 10 years, and especially in the last year, we have leveraged technology to connect with our clients no matter where their lives or business takes them.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

It’s an honor to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice, but now I have to get back to work so I win again next year.

What are you most proud of?

My family. I have two amazing sons that impress me everyday and a wife that I work side by side with both at home and as a CPA at our firm.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Building solid relationships with our clients by working closely with them to understand their individual situations and needs. This approach gives them the confidence and guidance necessary to make the best financial decisions for their business – or household – with the benefit of knowing we’re with them every step of the way.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Meicher CPAs has supported Boys and Girls Club of Dane County by helping set up it’s technology lab, we’ve been apart of Gilda’s Run for several years and are always trying to be involved in making Madison a better community for all.

What makes your business popular with families? We are a family business so can easily relate to the issues other family businesses encounter.

FAVORITES

Brianne Raimer Atwood Tax Ryan Vande Berg The Bald CPA Wisconsin State Journal

Winners Best OB/GYN Facility: SSM Health Dean Medical Group Best Pediatrician: Patricia Bellissimo, MD Favorites Best Hospital: SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital Best Eye Care: SSM Health Davis Duehr Dean Eye Care Best Dermatologist: Tracy Williams, PA-C Best Imaging/Diagnostics Center: SSM Health Dean & St. Mary’s Outpatient Center Best Rehabilitation Facility: SSM Health St. Mary’s Care Center Award winners determined via community voting.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Best Attorney

Best Barber

Lester Pines, Senior Partner Pines Bach LLP

Spencer Johnson Spencer Hair Design

Number of Years in Business: 47

Number of Years in Business: 22

122 West Washington Avenue, Suite 900 Madison, WI 53703 (608) 251-0101 www.pinesbach.com

340 S Whitney Way, Suite 202 Madison, WI 53705 (608) 345-0004 www.foxysalonsuites.com/team-2-3

Pines Bach LLP is a full-service law firm that provides outstanding legal services to our clients, whether they are individuals, labor unions, businesses, non-profit organizations, or government officials and agencies. Our attorneys maintain the highest ethical standards and are regularly rated by their peers as among the best in their areas of concentration. Our paralegals and other support staff are dedicated and experienced professionals as well.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

The attorneys at Pines Bach LLP are compassionate, courageous, and creative advocates who work tirelessly to meet the needs of our clients.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

Pines Bach lawyers represent clients in family law, trusts and estates, health care law, immigration law, real estate and business transactions, in addition to criminal defense, commercial, labor and employment, and personal injury litigation.

Spencer Hair Design creates the latest fashionable style haircuts, sharp beard lineups and creative hair designs.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Spencer Hair Designs are uniquely detailed with precision. The artwork in their hair puts Spencer Hair Design above its competitors.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? My customers may not know that I’m responsible for some of the haircuts that they’ve seen on NFL and NBA players when they are watching Super Bowl’s and All-Star games.

What brings customers back to your business? Reliable, available and consistent.

What makes your business a good place to work?

My client is diverse culturally, ethnically and social economically. I get to grow from all.

What brings customers back to your business?

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

What makes your business a good place to work?

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

We live up to our motto: Personal Service. Positive Outcomes. Pines Bach is a truly family-friendly employer that respects all of its employees for their work on behalf of our clients.

Madison is one of the best places in the country to live and work, especially at a progressive law firm.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

Having been an attorney in Madison for almost 50 years, I am honored to be recognized for my work pursuing justice and vindicating my clients’ rights.

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of having built with my colleagues a law firm that has over many decades successfully represented clients in lawsuits about: discrimination against women, people of color, and LGBTQ individuals; personal injuries; criminal charges; commercial disputes; and, especially, constitutional claims defending the right to organize and collectively bargain; women’s reproductive freedom; the right to vote; and threats to our tri-partite system of government.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Pines Bach sponsors non-profit community events and supports pro bono legal services. For example, our firm made a generous contribution to the Madison Parks Foundation to help replace ash trees that were removed due to the emerald ash borer. Our attorneys and staff also serve on boards of non-profit organizations and regularly contribute financially to them.

How do you build trust with clients?

My colleagues and I at Pines Bach build trust with our clients by always being supportive, objective, and truthful with them.

I get to make clients feel good about their look.

Customers can expect me to be on time for their service. They can expect quality and efficiency as well. This award validated that my hard work and dedication to my craft is appreciated.

What are you most proud of? I’m proud that I’m representing my family, friends and community in a positive manner.

What is your secret to good customer service? The secret is leaving my personal issues separate from my business environment.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community? Free haircuts to kids in grades K-12 going back to school.

How do you build trust with customers? I build trust by meeting expectations and following through .

What makes you popular? Kids like the treats after their haircuts.

What makes your business popular with families? Families feel safe with their kids in my establishment. It’s clean, sanitary and professional at all times.

FAVORITES

Terry Moss, Atwood Barber Shop Zach Zaricor, Blue Chip Barber Club

FAVORITES

John Haslam, Wilson Law Group, LLC Noelle Augelli, Wilson Law Group LLC 48

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Wisconsin State Journal

Best Bartender Cameron Taylor Lazy Oaf Lounge

1617 N Stoughton Rd, Madison, WI 53704 (608) 441-0370 www.lazyoafloungemenu.com

FAVORITES

Leann Butts , 5th Quarter Bar & Grill Matt Schmock, Smoky’s Club

Best Car Salesperson Corey Reilly Zimbrick Acura of Middleton

Number of Years in Business: 18 years of automotive experience. 15 years with Zimbrick. 7525 Century Avenue, Middleton, WI 53562 (608) 662-3122 Zimbrick Volkswagen of Middleton 7505 Century Avenue, Middleton, WI 53562 www.ZimbrickAcura.com

PERSONAL SERVICE + POSITIVE OUTCOMES =

BEST ATTORNEY IN MADISON Thank You for Naming Pines Bach Senior Partner Lester Pines Madison’s Best Attorney in the 2021 People’s Choice Awards! Co-founded by Lester Pines more than 40 years ago, Pines Bach is a wide-ranging law practice offering highly effective representation at all stages. Deeply rooted in Madison, Lester and all our respected lawyers are compassionate, creative, community-focused, tireless…and grateful to have earned your trust! Madison, Wisconsin | 608.251.0101 | PinesBach.com

Zimbrick is a local, family-owned auto dealer. Whether you’re buying, leasing, maintaining or fixing a car – Zimbrick can help. In 1965, John Zimbrick purchased a Buick franchise and built his dealership around the philosophy of “Loving Care Service”. I personally work primarily out of the Acura store in Middleton, but can sell new and used vehicles at any of our Zimbrick locations.

What makes you stand out from the competition? Working for Zimbrick, two of our Core Values are Integrity and Outstanding Customer Service. By allowing us and encouraging us to incorporate those two things in everything we do, it helps our employees stand out in the best way possible! I pride myself in people’s happiness and their sense of trust every day. I’ve also proudly been a Z-Elite member since 2013 and an Acura Council of Sales Excellence Member (Gold and Platinum status) since 2014.

What brings customers back to your business?

We have a saying at Zimbrick of Middleton, which is “The Right Thing, The Right Way, Every Time.” I hold a coin in my wallet that says this phrase on it as well. Most of my customers and sales transactions come from repeat business, sometimes their

Wisconsin State Journal

Throughout our 26-year history, Wilson Law Group has strived to support and contribute to our community. We are honored to have been selected as the People's Choice for Best Law Firm! Schedule a free estate planning consultation!

608.833.4001 wilsonlawgroup.com PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

6th or 7th car they’ve purchased from me! Many of them have even become friends outside of our business transactions too. It’s certainly a bonus!

Best Chef

What makes your business a good place to work?

Chef Dave Heide Liliana’s

Zimbrick takes care of its employees, which then allows its employees to take care of our great customers. They give us the opportunities and tools to not only feel valued as an employee, but also to make sure our customers are happy with their experiences here. Whether someone is here for sales, service, or body work, we would be nothing without our customers. We want them to be happy! Along with a very generous PTO program, we are also rewarded with additional days off for obtaining Z-Elite status. There are a lot of places to work in the Madison area, but Zimbrick is the best!

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

The Madison area is a fantastic place to live and work. Not only is the community a great place to do business, it’s also a great place to give back! Between United Way financial contributions, Days of Caring, and other things like volunteering at local food pantries, Zimbrick gives back to its community. The community supports us and we love to support them!

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Number of Years in Business:14 2951 Triverton Pike Drive, Fitchburg, WI 53711 (608) 628-2794 www.chefdavemadison.com All of my businesses are named after my children. Liliana’s was named after my first born (who now goes by Ollie), we owned Charlie’s on Main named after my son Charlie, and are now in the process of opening Little John’s named after my youngest John.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

We have always felt that the most important thing about owning the restaurant was what we could do to do more than just cook food and make money. We decided that our focus would be about community first no matter what.

The first thing our customers will notice is a warm greeting with a smile. We aren’t here to be pushy or aggressive but would rather help you accomplish exactly what you are looking to do. I pride myself in listening to your wants and needs and then turning that into a plan of action to achieve what works best for you!

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People Choice?

What brings customers back to your business?

When I found out I was nominated, and then ultimately won a spot in the People’s Choice Awards, I was incredibly humbled! My customer’s happiness and satisfaction contributes a great deal to my happiness and satisfaction. It makes me feel like my hard work is being noticed by the people I want to take care of. Thank you SO much!

What are you most proud of?

I started selling cars “Black Friday” of 2010, and worked in one of our service departments starting April of 2006 prior to that. It’s been an incredible experience and I cannot believe how quickly it has gone! When my family, friends, and repeat customers call me to help with a vehicle purchase, it shows that they trust me and put their faith in me to make sure they get what they want. I am proud that they believe in me!

What is your secret to good customer service?

By putting myself in the customer’s shoes, it gives you a perspective on how people would like to be treated when making such a large and important purchase. I am an incredibly empathetic person, (almost to a fault!) and live by the golden rule of “treating others as one wants to be treated.” I have also been blessed with an incredibly strong memory that helps me remember even the smallest details of each transactions. When you remember people, they feel valued. I like to feel valued too!

How do you build trust with customers?

Treating customers with respect and honesty not only helps sell cars, but it’s the right way to do things! Following through on promises, timely follow-up, and showing genuine care, concern, and respect are a big part of how I do things on a daily basis.

What makes your business popular with families?

I come from a big family. My wife and I also have three small children and we are always on the go! When a young family comes in, I immediately see myself, my wife, and our kids in those people. Putting someone in a car that they plan to drive their family from here, there, and everywhere, requires a car that is not only safe, but reliable. Working for Zimbrick allows me to check off both of those boxes immediately!

FAVORITES

Jill Warren, Zimbrick Honda James Skolaski, Zimbrick Fish Hatchery Road

At Liliana’s, I built everything inside made of wood. From the bar, to the wine racks, to the tables. My dad took all of the photography, and Alex Herndon, a graduate from West High, was able to create all of the wrought iron on site by welding and bending every piece. Hopefully the food and service! ;-)

What makes your business a good place to work?

We care for all of our staff like family. We have also instituted new policies to make sure they are taken care of with their wage as well. All of our staff now make over $15 an hour.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

The community is amazing, and has been there for us through covid and beyond! I am from the Madison area, and have lived all over the US. I always knew I would come back here to raise my family.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors? Great food, and a warm smile. ;-)

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

It means so much. This last year was so hard to get through, but the support of the community, and now this award, have helped keep my spirits high.

What are you most proud of? My family and my staff.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Take care of your staff like family, and they will take care of your customers like family.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We donate over $100,000 back into the community every year, and have never said no to anyone asking for help.

FAVORITES

Tory Miller, L’Etoile and Estrellon Henry Doane, Tornado Steak House 50

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Wisconsin State Journal

Best Chiropractor Tim Turino DC Madison Chiropractic

Number of Years in Business: 43 2110 Fordem Avenue, Madison, WI 53704 (608) 244-7447 www.madisonchiro.com Dr. Turino is a 1978 Palmer College of Chiropractic graduate with a lifelong interest in learning. Though trained in the classic chiropractic approaches to spinal manipulation Dr. Turino changed his practice style and was trained in Activator Methods, achieving the highest proficiency rating awarded. This low force diagnostic approach utilizes precise testing to determine where and when to perform the appropriate correction, but when to leave it alone and let the body heal.

ThE DocToRs Who hElp MaDIsoN sTay WEll

Dr. Cady Roedl Dr. Justin Rodriguez Dr. Robin Beatty

Dr. Sara Nelson

Dr. Tim Turino

Thank you for voting us #1!!

11 TIME WINNER Wisconsin State Journal

2205 N. Sherman Ave. • 6000 Gisholt Drive 2110 Fordem Ave.

www.madisonchiro.com PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

What makes you stand out from the competition?

For 43 years Dr. Turino has strived to utilize his training to better the health of the patients he serves. A second generation doctor of chiropractic he learned from his father the importance of Chiropractic care and how it can change patients lives by making them more mobile, flexible and functional though all stages of there lives.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? How much fun it is!

What brings customers back to your business? Results.

What do you love most about having your business in this community? Madison is amazing with amazing people.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice? Thank you to my patients and colleagues for this honor.

What is your secret to good customer service? Great staff!

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Tim and Karen Turino initiated the building of M.Y. Dream Park in Monona, Chaired the Monona Festival, have been active on committees in city government as well as professional committees and projects.

FAVORITES

Amy Zimmerman, LSM Chiropractic Ann Metzler, Zelm Chiropractic Dr Brett Hoeft, LSM Chiropractic

Best Dentist Dr. David Gundersen First Choice Dental

Number of Years in Business: 25 440 Science Drive, Suite 100, Madison, WI 53711 1809 E. Washington Avenue, Madison, WI 53704 138 Junction Road, Madison, WI 53717 621 S Park Street, Madison, WI 53715 1050 Regent Street, Madison, WI 53715 7780 Elmwood Avenue, Middleton, WI 53562 5950 Seminole Centre Ct., Fitchburg, WI 53711 1300 Nygaard St. Stoughton, WI 53589 140 N. City Station Drive Sun Prairie, WI 53590 119 Wilburn Rd., Sun Prairie, WI 53590 927 N. Main Street, Verona, WI 53593 1141 Simon Crestway, Waunakee, WI 53597 (608) 308-2950 www.firstchoicedental.com See Bio on pages 36-37 Health & Medical: Best Dental Practice

Best Dermatologist Julie Lederman NP UW Health East Clinic - Dermatology

5249 E. Terrace Drive, Madison, WI 53718 (608) 265-1288 www.uwhealth.org/providers/ julie-lederman-np

FAVORITES

Tracy Williams PA-C, Dean Clinic Thomas Keenan, MD, PhD., UW Health

Best Esthetician Melissa Hoefling Kneaded Relief Day Spa & Wellness

Number of Years in Business: 21 Years 5500 E Cheryl Pkwy #26, Fitchburg, WI 53711 (608) 255-0070 www.kneadedreliefdayspa.com I started my career with Kneaded Relief 21 years ago. I have a passion for beauty and wellness. I specialize in facials, body treatments and liquid hair removal/waxings. I also manage and train the Esthetics team at Kneaded Relief. My goal is to teach the importance of skin care and to customize an everyday regimen for each individual’s specific needs and to help them relax.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

I offer a memorable experience above anything else. I am committed to helping each guest reach their personal goals. I also maintain professionalism with every guest.

What brings customers back to your business?

Knowing that I care about the guests and that their needs are being met. I also show each guest appreciation for supporting Kneaded Relief.

What makes your business a good place to work?

Kneaded Relief has an incredible team who are supportive and offer a sense of family. It has a flexible work environment. We have the freedom to learn and grow in our career with a mission to take the best care of our guests.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

Being able to help others de-stress and maintain their skin care needs and embrace the beauty of aging with positive attitudes.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

A warm welcome and a smiling face to help guests leave their stress of everyday life behind. Kneaded Relief is a safe place to relax and be taken care of.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

I am truly honored. I would like to thank all of the guests who have placed their trust in me. I appreciate each and every one of them.

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of making a difference in people’s lives.

What is your secret to good customer service?

FAVORITES Dr. Chelsea Kepler, Affordable Dental Care, Inc. Dr. Rob Bradley, First Choice Dental 52

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Offering kindness and respect to others, being a good listener and being passionate about my career and the services that are provided.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

I donate to our local food pantry. I also donate a facial or body treatment for the National Kidney Foundation fundraiser that Kneaded Relief does annually.

How do you build trust with patients?

I always ask questions to make each service personalized and listen to my guest’s goals and needs. I keep my workspace sanitized and clean. I greet each guest with a welcoming smile and stay consistent with the services I provide.

Wisconsin State Journal

FAVORITES

Sara Hendrickson, ANiU Salon and Spa Sara Lindgren Mooney, The Silk Purse Aesthetics and Lash Bar

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

We are a very clean and friendly salon. Greeted with a smile from our warm reservationists and attentive staff.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

It is such an honor and surprise to be voted among the very best Madison has to offer.

What are you most proud of?

Best Firefighter Ruth Saavard

City of Madison Fire Department www.cityofmadison.com/fire

FAVORITES

Reggie Williams, City of Madison Fire Department Dustin Whitehorse, City of Madison Fire Department

Best Hairstylist Renee Olson Escapade Salon

Number of Years in Business: 25+ 4102 Lien Road, STE B, Madison, WI 53704-3682 (608) 241-1966 www.escapadesalon.com We are a full-service salon offering pedicures, nails, massages, and facials. We also have a great boutique with many items you to find for that special gift. We are open Monday through Saturday and accept walk-in’s and booking online.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Madison is full of amazing cosmetologists and it is a fun fast-changing industry that you never stop learning in. I was blessed to always surround myself with other talented stylists and wonderful clientele. I also believe being the number one Paul Mitchell Focus Salon in Wisconsin keeps our standards high.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

Our salon! We have grown it over the past 8 years and our team works well together. Coupled with our customers and our team we really are a second family. I also am honored to be a Paul Mitchell salon as I embody their philosophies.

What is your secret to good customer service?

I listen to my client’s wants and needs of service but also of their joys and struggles of life. I want everyone walking out of our doors to feel good inside and out.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We do multiple fundraisers for Sandburg Elementary and are proud to be a part of it. We are also a Paul Mitchell Focus Salon whose philosophy is to make more to give more and is very eco-friendly. Paul Mitchell encourages and assists their salons in giving back to the community and the earth.

How do you build trust with clients?

I am honest with the client especially listening to their needs and making their dreams into reality.

What makes you popular?

Our very knowledgeable friendly staff makes it easy for people to come back to fulfill their outer beauty needs.

What makes your business popular with families?

We have diversified knowledge of working with customers of all age ranges.

FAVORITES

Chelsea Neitzel - Vertige Kate Wiebe - ANiU Salon

Best Insurance Agent Meg Cano-Schuman State Farm Insurance

Number of Years in Business: 3 3565 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53705 (920) 342-7700 www.mymadtownagent.com

I don’t believe the media has done a great job educating consumers about our industry. We all have taken a lot of chemistry classes and human anatomy to receive our licenses. I have a dual license in cosmetology and massage therapy. Also, how much education we receive through seminars, conferences, and online videos to keep up with the latest trends.

At our agency we focus on helping people protect and grow their assets through building relationships, and tailoring plans to suit each persons individual needs and goals. We do this by providing the best options possible for their insurance needs, and financial growth. We can assist with your home, auto, health, and business needs. We specialize in life insurance plans, and helping people prepare for the unexpected.

What brings customers back to your business?

What makes you stand out from the competition?

I would like to think my positive attitude and my friendships with them. I am on my third generation of clients.

What makes your business a good place to work?

I have always loved working with Theresa Gillette, the owner ,she has been a wonderful mentor and role model for me. Our Escapade team is the kindest and compassionate co-workers ever. We all share the same philosophy and values.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

Madison is a unique city that brings people from all different areas from University students to artists, to corporations and families.

Wisconsin State Journal

When choosing MCS State Farm, you become a part of our family. We are a small office, generally a staff of 3-4. This allows for you to get to know us, and know that when you call or need something you will always have a personal representative in your corner. So many companies have steered away from the personal touch, relationships, and that at times can leave you feeling unheard, or frustrated. We feel having an Agent, and small team looking over your insurance needs makes for a much more pleasant, and personalized experience.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

We are a mother daughter duo here! When I opened my agency I asked my mom (Diane) to join the team as my office manager. Family is very important

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

to me, and I am blessed to have my mother by my side. We work hand in hand and really enjoy every moment. She is a major asset to the growth and success of our office! Another fun fact is we are pet friendly, we love meeting your furry friends! (We sell pet insurance too!).

What brings customers back to your business?

We work really hard to ensure every experience with our office is personal and seamless. We take time getting to know our customers, what their life goals are, and what’s important to them when looking for a place to do business. I think the more we can make each person feel like they matter (which they do) the more they will realize we are the best place they can be! We prioritize every need and approach every situation( even the difficult ones) with a CanDo attitude.

What makes your business a good place to work?

It has always been a priority to ensure my team feels likes a family. I want to know my employees outside of who they are at work, and I try to make the work place a fun and laid back environment! I think teamwork is huge for office culture, so you can always expect that in our office I do my best to keep that moral high! We need to celebrate each other, and our accomplishments as a team. Team lunches, games, competitions, events, birthday parties, lots of laughs, and friendship are all great reasons to be a part of our team!

What do you love most about having your business in this community? Madison has been such a great place to start and grow my business. The culture, the people , and the energy of this city is intoxicating. The support I have been given from my customers is incredible, and is the reason I am able to accomplish something as amazing as this.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

A smiling face, great energy, willingness to help, a warm cup of coffee and the smell of fresh popcorn! Occasionally you may even be greeted by an office pup!

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

This is such a huge accomplishment. We opened our doors in September of 2018, that means in 3 years (and one crazy pandemic) we have impacted more people then we could have ever imagined. It is a testament to the hard work my team has put in to being the best we can for this community and is truly humbling to be standing in this place in such a short period of time. We are so grateful.

What are you most proud of?

I started my career at State Farm as new mother and just a mere 23 years old. Through great support and guidance from another agent, a lot of hard work, and dedication I was blessed with the opportunity to open my own agency. As now a mother of 2, wife, soccer coach, and all the other titles I hold in my daily life, I would say being a woman business owner is something I am extremely proud of. Becoming a State Farm agent is not something as simple as buying a franchise, its a selective process that requires commitment, dedication, time, and hard work. I wasn’t sure what life had in store for me at the age of 23 but to open my doors before the age of 30, and now accomplish something amazing as this award, I would say life has been good to me and I couldn’t be more proud.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Patience, kindness, ability to empathize, and even laugh! Every person deserves to be heard, and we take the time to do that. It’s never about what’s in it for me, if you do what’s best for the customer blessings always follow.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We do a lot to give back and support other small businesses through donations and partnered promos, you may find yourself subject to a MCS State Farm random act of kindness throughout the community, we are involved in many organizations, sponsor youth sports teams, and have partnered with Kwik Trip and donated over 750 gallons of milk to the needy in the past 24 months!

How do you build trust with clients, patients, or customers?

We spend a lot of time sitting down with our customers, learning about their life, families, and goals. Honesty is key, we may not always have the solution or answer but always do our best to find it or assist to the best of our ability.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

We want every experience to be more then a 5 star experience, so we will go out of our way to help even if its something outside of our wheelhouse.

What makes your event (or attraction) popular?

We are fun! We approach insurance with a different perspective and we welcome people from all walks of life into our office. We are about kindness, caring, and inclusion.

What makes your business popular with families?

We are entirely family friendly, I have two beautiful daughters, and a loving husband. My office has a kids corner, and we are pet friendly too! It’s not uncommon that I am doing a 7:00am or 6:00pm zoom meeting to accommodate the crazy schedules life brings.

FAVORITES

Dave Scher, America Family Insurance Katy Lea, American Family Insurance

Best Law Enforcement Officer David Mahoney (Retired) Dane County Sheriff

FAVORITES

Chief Troy Hellenbrand, Middleton PD Ken Brown - Madison PD

Best Pediatrician Patricia Bellissimo, MD SSM Health Dean Medical Group Number of Years in Business: 149

700 S Park Street, Madison, WI 53715 (608) 251-6100 www.ssmhealth.com See Bio on page 38 Health & Medical: Best OB/GYN Facility

FAVORITES

Timothy Chybowski, MD, UW Health Andrea N. Jones, MD – UW Health Union Corners Clinic

Best Photographer Angelic Angles Photography Jennifer Andersen

Number of Years in Business: 18 years 5769 Derby Downs Drive, Waunakee, WI 53597 (608) 279-7670 www.angelicangles.com Photography to me is much more then just producing pictures on paper. It’s about capturing the essence of each family in a stress free and relaxed environment. One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is getting to know each family I work with. I want their portraits to be an honest representation of their life and love. To be chosen as a family’s lifelong photographer is an honor I do not take lightly.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Our customer experience. I want family portraits to be an enjoyable experi-

Wisconsin State Journal

ence. Something that kids and parents look forward to. I genuinely love and adore the families I photograph.. and I think the families I work with can feel that. An authentic personality goes a long way when you are working one on one. No better feeling in the world than receiving an email that says ‘The kids couldn’t stop talking about how much fun they had’.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

That I used to be a teacher! I taught high school art immediately after college and did photography as a side job during the summers. Now I’m photographing the newborns of some of my former students!

What brings customers back to your business?

The personal touch... I pride myself on the fact that I have seen some of my families now for years and years on repeat. We develop a connection that allows for trust from the parents and a genuine excitement from the kids when it’s ‘picture day’. I want them to look back at their family photos and not only love how they look.. but also to remember how much fun they had. To treasure not only the photos but also the memories that were made in creating those photos.

What makes your business a good place to work?

Our size! ;) It’s really just me and Megan. She’s the best... we laugh a lot.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

The people... there really is truth to the saying Midwest is Best. The families I meet in Madison are so incredibly kind and genuine. We are also blessed to have a lot of wonderful parks, conservancies and gardens in the area that make for beautiful photos.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Considering I’m working out of my home now.. I hope they feel welcomed, comfortable and at ease knowing that I’ll make it an enjoyable experience.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

It means everything.. cheesy as that sounds. Simply because we were nominated and won because of the incredible families we work with. This past year and a half has been rough. I actually made the tough decision last summer to close my studio downtown Madison and move the business into my home. To be voted Madison’s favorite photographer in the midst of all that.. had me quite emotional. I can’t ever say thank you enough!

What are you most proud of?

The relationships I’ve developed with families in the Madison area and beyond. I truly adore the kids I get to work with. Last year was tough, not only as a business owner but because I had such long windows when I couldn’t see my families. Many of my families I see every few months and I missed them like crazy! My business is run entirely on referrals and repeat clients. The fact that the families I work with keep me so busy that I no longer do any advertising is a really amazing. I’m so grateful!

What is your secret to good customer service?

It’s no secret - Treat people the way you would want to be treated.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Every year we do a Halloween & Valentine’s Day Portrait event. It’s open to the public and each year we photograph about 100 children during the course of the day for a small donation. We have a lot of families who have been attending for over 10 years! The donations are given to a non profit each year, recipients have included Schumacher Farms Park and the Goodman Community Center.

How do you build trust with customers?

This is a hard question to answer since the bulk of my business is newborn photography... so families literally walk into my studio and trustingly hand over their newborn babies. I imagine that trust is a result of the relationships I’ve built over the years with their family and friends. I don’t do any advertising, so anyone I work with is a referral or repeat customer. Trust is vital to my business.

FAVORITES

John Flores Photography Karmen Lindner, KLP Wisconsin State Journal

Best Radio Personality Lanette Hansen Magic 98

www.magic98.com/lanette-hansen

FAVORITES

Jonathan Sutton, 105.5 Triple M Steph Peters, Q106

Best Real Estate Agent Matt Deadman Matt Deadman Homes

Number of Years in Business: 5 242 E Main Street, Sun Prairie, WI 53590 (608) 770-3333 www.mattdeadmanhomes.com What makes you stand out from the competition?

I aim to provide Real Estate service that last well after the closing table. I build lifelong relationships with my clients that is deeper than a single transaction! I want to be their friend, real estate confidant, and for them to know that I always have their best interest at heart.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

That it is just me, myself and I! Many large agents have whole teams of support staff, Admins, and Buyers Agents. I do it all for my clients and love being hands on and having a say during the entire transaction process.

What brings customers back to your business?

I think the fact that they know I truly and deeply care about not only their real estate transaction, but also them as a person. I want them to enjoy the transaction, I want them to love the house, and I want them to know I am always there to help and to bounce ideas and questions about Real Estate and about life.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Customers can expect that I will always put their best interests’ first. I will treat them as if they are the only client I am working with. In addition, I will always be available for their needs and questions and that I will place being able to get a hold of me and communicate with me at the top of my responsibilities.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

It means that providing amazing, client driven, relationship based Real Estate is needed and desired. It also means that I have the most amazing clients in the industry and this award is truly for them!

What are you most proud of?

I am proud of the relationships I have built with my clients. 3 of my past clients have actually invited me to officiate their weddings (I became ordained at one of my first client’s request). Being invited to their weddings, their children’s birthday parties, client’s graduation parties, that is what it is all about and shows the relationship goes well beyond Real Estate.

What is your secret to good customer service?

My secret is that there is no secret. Work hard, treat people how you want to be treated, overly communicate, build relationships, have integrity, and always be honest.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

As a Deforest area resident, I give back to Deforest schools, specifically the athletic programs. I also give back to UW sports, specifically UW Wrestling and the Wisconsin Regional Training Center. In the past, I have been involved with the United Way of Dane County.

How do you build trust with clients, patients, or customers?

I always treat clients how I would want to be treated and always put their interests ahead of my own. In addition, I focus on building deep, long term relationships with my clients.

What are you most proud of?

How far I’ve come in a short amount of time. I’ve found something I’m willing to work my tail off for after a long time of giving up and failure. I’ve over come a lot of personal and professional obstacles to be here.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Open ears. Listening and patience. I don’t like to sugar coat things but it’s really important to me that everyone I interact with is met with the same respect and attention. The customer isn’t always right but neither am I and that’s okay.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

FAVORITES

Liz Lauer, Lauer Reality Group Sara Alvarado, Alvarado Real Estate Group

Best Tattoo Artist Holly Drifke Steve’s Tattoo and Body Shop Number of Years in Business: 5

1205 Williamson Street, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 251-6111 https://instagram.com/hol.dri.tattoo Professional licensed tattoo artist working out of Steve’s Tattoo in Madison, Wisconsin on Willy Street. High sanitary standards, clean and quality work!

What makes you stand out from the competition?

I’m not sure! I think my genuine nature and attentiveness helps but I am also very weird so maybe that, ha ha.

I like to keep my donations private but I try my best to have a voice for those who don’t have the privilege and platform I do.

How do you build trust with clients, patients, or customers?

Punctuality and attentiveness. I strive to let me clients know that I’m here for them. I also like to let them in on some of my life so they know I’m just as “normal” and human as them.

What makes you popular?

I don’t know why people like me most of the time, haha. But I think quality work and the fact that I’m fortunate enough to come up in a shop as well known as Steve’s. We like to have a good time here.

What makes your business popular with families?

Families love matching tattoos! Word of mouth is huge to my business and when Mom or Dad or even a grandparent got tattooed some where… that’s big!

FAVORITES

Brooke Sutter, Lost Lakes Tattoo Gabe Joyner, Wayward Tattoos

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? Most folks don’t realize I haven’t actually been tattooing that long in the grand scheme of things. I’m just two years out of my apprenticeship and I’ve worked under both Steve Gold and Billy McCoy here at Steve’s Tattoo.

What brings customers back to your business?

Quality work and an enjoyable experience. I try to make it fun and memorable!

What makes your business a good place to work?

I get to do what I love every single day. I get to work with amazing artists and meet rad people and some how make a living that way! Sounds pretty good to me.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

The people. A lot of my clients know each other, and a lot of them work with other artists in town and I feel really connected to really passionate people. Also Willy Street is awesome.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

I hope they can expect a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere; met with an eclectic range of music and that tattoo shop smell. Also they can expect some neurotic energy from me but that just adds to the fun experience.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

This is just so shocking to me. It means that my clients recognize all the hard work I’ve put in to everything I do. I can only hope it means a lot of doors can continue to open for me.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Best TV Personality Charlie Shortino WMTV - NBC15

www.nbc15.com/authors/charlie-shortino

FAVORITES

Susan Siman, WISC-TV John Ziegler, WKOW

RETAIL Best Appliance Retailer Nonn’s | Kitchen, Bath & Flooring Number of Years in Business: 37

7550 Graber Road, Middleton, WI 53562 5952 Haase Road, Madison, WI 53532 1925 S. Moorland Road, New Berlin, WI 53151 (608) 836-8833 www.nonns.com Nonn’s is Wisconsin’s go-to source for flooring, countertops, cabinetry, and appliances. But, more than that, Nonn’s is a place where you can step inside and feel inspired—where you can leave the stresses of your project at the door, and enjoy all of the exciting new possibilities for your space. And, with thousands of kitchen, bath and flooring products to choose from, the stylish possibilities are practically endless.

Wisconsin State Journal

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Our Big-Box Prices, Boutique Selections, & Complimentary Design Services are unlike any other.

NARI, MBA, MABA, etc. We also support several local charities: Operation Finally Home, Habitat For Humanity, The Sunshine Place, Middleton Outreach Ministry and more.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

How do you build trust with clients, patients, or customers?

We just opened a newly-remodeled location in New Berlin Wisconsin—in the old Harley-Davidson building!

What brings customers back to your business?

They know that we can help bring the dreams they have for their home to life.

What makes your business a good place to work?

We love what we do, who we do it with, and whom we do it for. We’re really like one big family; we provide everyone generous benefits, prioritize time off, and support each other through thick and thin.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

The ability to give back to all of those that helped us along the way—the home building and remodeling community, all of the homeowners that trusted us with their dreams. Any opportunity we have to give back, we do.

We do what we say we’re going to do. Plain and simple. That’s why we have our Nth Degree Guarantee. But the Nth Degree Guarantee is so much more than just a pledge to provide good customer service. And it’s deeper than any product warranty or installation agreement. The Nth Degree Guarantee symbolizes a sense of assurance that comes with every product we sell, and every service we’ve provide.

What makes your business popular with families? We help them create a home they’ll love for a lifetime.

FAVORITES

Brothers Main Appliance & TV Grand Appliance and TV

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

A smile, plenty of inspiration, and a trusted partner that will be with you every step of the way.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

It means the world to us. And it tells us we must be doing something right. It motivates us to keep delivering the best possible service we can.

What are you most proud of?

Our team and our work. It really does feel like a family here, and when that family can help other families build their dreams? Well, there’s nothing better.

What is your secret to good customer service? Come up with the best solution possible.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We sponsor a number of events for local builder and remodeler associations:

Work With the Best Real estate agent in Madison. thank you for voting for me!

Wisconsin State Journal

Best Bike Shop Machinery Row Bicycles

Number of Years in Business: 21 601 Williamson Street, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 442-5974 www.machineryrowbicycles.com Machinery Row Bicycles is Madison’s local bike shop now for over 20 years!

Who you choose as your Realtor matters. Choose the Best. ContaCt Me Direct: 608.770.3333 • mattdeadmanhomes.com matt@mattdeadmanhomes.com real Broker LLC

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

What makes you stand out from the competition?

The best selection of bicycles and cycling related accessories in Madison!

What brings customers back to your business?

Unmatched inventory and a highly trained and skilled staff.

FAVORITES

Budget Bicycle Center - Repairs & Bicycle Accessories Trek Bicycle Madison East

Best Book Store Barnes & Noble

E Towne Way #1, Madison, WI 53704 (608) 241-4695 7433 Mineral Point Road, Madison, WI 53717 (608) 827-0809 www.barnesandnoble.com

FAVORITES

A Room of One’s Own Half Price Books

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

We have a greenhouse that grows plants for the city of Madison year round. We grow Perennials, Annuals, Mums, and Poinsettias. Come visit us any time of the year. We also offer fresh evergreens for the holiday season. Our garland and wreaths are very popular. Felly’s offers much more than flower arrangements.

What brings customers back to your business?

Our passion and knowledge for plants and flowers. We make it a point to provide the best customer service possible and delivery a high quality product. We believe this will keep customers with you for a lifetime.

What makes your business a good place to work?

The people that work for us are the best. We believe in a team effort approach and each employee strive to practice servant leadership.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

We are extremely excited to hear the people of Madison have chosen us to be their florist of choice. We are so grateful to have such a wonderful customer base and that they continue to support local businesses. Thank You Madison!!!

FAVORITES

Klein’s Floral And Greenhouses George’s Flowers Inc.

Best Flooring Retailer

Best Furniture Store

Nonn’s | Kitchen, Bath & Flooring

Woodworks Furniture & Design

Number of Years in Business: 37

Number of Years in Business: 42

7550 Graber Road, Middleton, WI 53562 5952 Haase Road, Madison, WI 53532 1925 S. Moorland Road, New Berlin, WI 53151 (608) 836-8833

6641 Watts Road, Madison, WI 53711 (608) 274-8199

www.nonns.com See Bio on pages 56-57 & 70-71 Retail: Best Appliance Retailer

FAVORITES

Coyle Carpet One Floor & Home Sergenian’s Floor Coverings - Residential Showroom

Best FloRIST Felly’s Flowers

Number of Years in Business: 72 205 E Broadway, Madison, WI 53716 6353 Nesbitt Road, Madison, WI 53719 5602 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53705 7858 Mineral Point Road, Madison, WI 53717 (608) 221-4200

www.woodworksfurniturestore.com High quality furniture for every room in your home.

What brings customers back to your business? Our great customer service and quality furniture.

What makes your business a good place to work?

Being family owned, the owners and staff feel like a true family.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors? Friendly staff and high quality made in America furniture.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

This is a great honor and happy to see we have impacted the Madison area with our store.

What is your secret to good customer service? Listening to our customers.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community? We have donated to the PBS auction.

FAVORITES

Steinhafels A1 Furniture & Mattress

www.fellys.com Felly’s Flowers has been proudly serving Madison for over 72 years as one of the cities best Florist and Garden Center. Voted Madison’s Best Florist - Madison Magazine and Readers Choice - Wisconsin State Journal. Our four flower shops offer fabulous floral designs, great selection and quick delivery. Plus a large selection of green plants from our 35,000 sq. ft. garden center. We deliver six days a week to Madison and the surrounding areas.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

The strive for exceptional customer service and the quality of the products we offer our customers.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Best Gift Shop Orange Tree Imports

Number of Years in Business: 46 1721 Monroe Street, Madison, WI 53711 (608) 255-8211 https://orangetreeimports.com Wisconsin State Journal

Orange Tree Imports is a family owned specialty shop featuring a uniquely wide range of merchandise including kitchenware, specialty foods, jewelry, local products, toys, seasonal décor, candles, bath and body products, Wisconsin-themed gifts and much more. Our shop has been located at 1721 Monroe Street for over 45 years, and is proud to be a founding member of both Dane Buy Local and the Monroe Street Merchants Association.

Thanks for Recognizing St. Vinny’s as Dane County’s Best Thrift store with the Best Women’s Clothes! And thank you for the Silver Award for Best Charitable Organization! Each purchase you make helps us feed, house, heal and clothe Dane County neighbors in need.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

In addition to offering an extensive array of gifts and kitchenware (including Cooking School classes), we have a wonderful toy department. That area of the store specializes in quality games, activities and puzzles that children can either learn and enjoy on their own, or as a family project. Parents and grandparents appreciate that we can recommend gifts that are appropriate to children’s ages and interests.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

About 25 years ago, co-owner Carol “Orange” Schroeder decided to share what she knows about running a small business. Her book, Specialty Shop Retailing, is now in its fourth edition and has been translated into Russian. She speaks at trade shows across the US and Canada, and has written over 750 articles and blog posts for independent retailers.

What brings customers back to your business?

Customer service and selection are what sets a bricks and mortar shop apart from online competition, so we strive to offer the best of both. We want shopping at Orange Tree Imports to be enjoyable, and hope that now that the pandemic is receding we can once again offer that kind of experience.

svdpmadison.org shopstvinnys.com 7 Dane County locations: Willy St., Odana, S. Park St., Sun Prairie, Waunakee, Stoughton

Thank You Madison For Voting Us: The #1 Best Child Day Care Facility!

Preschool of The Arts is Celebrating 50 years, Check us out! www.preschoolofthearts.com

Wisconsin State Journal

608.233.1707

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

What makes your business a good place to work?

Orange Tree Imports is run as a participative democracy, which means that in addition to providing exceptional customer service, our 20 employees are involved in buying, displays, and many other aspects of running the business.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

We are active members of the Monroe Street business community and love the support and camaraderie of our fellow business owners both on Monroe Street and throughout Madison. We are grateful that our community believes in the “buy local” concept, and has supported its small businesses through the challenges of COVID and Amazon.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

We have something for almost everyone, and hope that customers will enjoy browsing. But if someone comes in for a specific item, we’ll try to make that errand efficient and successful.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

We are especially grateful for this endorsement after the difficulties of carrying on during the pandemic. We’re grateful to everyone who voted for us, as well as for the other shops we were proud to share the ballot with.

What are you most proud of?

Our most recent accomplishment was getting through the pandemic without anyone on the staff falling ill with COVID. We did everything we could to protect our employees and customers, and feel that these precautions were worthwhile.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Orange Tree Imports is fortunate to have an incredible group of employees, some of whom have been with us over 35 years. Their expertise and enthusiasm is the key to our customer service.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Owning a local business gives us the welcome opportunity to be an active part of our community. We are involved in many volunteer activities, including serving on local boards, and donate to many local causes. Co-owner Orange Schroeder has been chair of the Monroe Street Merchants Association and the Monroe Street Library League for over 40 years.

How do you build trust with customers?

We try to offer quality products at a fair price, and strive to correct any problems that arise as quickly as possible.

FAVORITES

Little Luxuries Red Barn Company Store

Best Hardware Store Ace Hardware Center

Ace Hardware Center • (608) 257-1630 1398 Williamson Street, Madison, WI 53703 Ace Hilldale • (608) 441-6900 414 N Midvale Blvd, Madison, WI 53705 North Side Ace Hardware • (608) 241-1541 2935 N Sherman Avenue, Madison, WI 53704 Wolff Kubly Middleton Ace • (608) 238-0251 6305 University Avenue, Middleton, WI 53562 Ace Hardware • (608) 831-2535 2540 Allen Blvd, Middleton, WI 53562-2212 McFarland Ace Hardware • (608) 838-4285 5210 Farwell Street, Mc Farland, WI 53558 Ace Hardware • (608) 849-8500 205 S Century Avenue, Waunakee, WI 53597 Ace Hardware of Cottage Grove • (608) 839-1500 203 W Cottage Grove Rd, Cottage Grove, WI 53527 Ace Hardware • (608) 846-3876 811 S Main Street, Deforest, WI 53532 Stoughton Lumber Co Inc • (608) 873-4141 3188 Deer Point Drive, Stoughton, WI 53589 Viking Ace Hardware • (608) 437-8717 1240 Springdale Street, Mount Horeb, WI 53572 Hellenbrands Ace Hardware • (608) 655-3837 104 E Main Street, Marshall, WI 53559 Cambridge Ace Hardware • (608) 423-4081 200 Commerce Avenue, Cambridge, WI 53523 www.acehardware.com

FAVORITES

Dorn True Value Hardware Menards

Best Health Food Store Willy Street Co-op

Number of Years in Business: 47

Best Grocery Store Woodman’s Food Market

725 S Gammon Rd, Madison, WI 53719 (608) 274-8944 3817 Milwaukee St, Madison, WI 53714 (608) 244-6630 1099 S Grand Ave, Sun Prairie, WI 53590 (608) 825-1511 www.woodmans-food.com

FAVORITES

Metcalfe’s Market Willy Street Co-op

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

1221 Williamson Street, Madison, WI 53703 6825 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53562 2817 N. Sherman Avenue, Madison, WI 53704 (608) 251-1221 www.willystreet.coop Willy Street Co-op is an economically and environmentally sustainable, cooperatively owned grocery business that serves the needs of its owners and employees. We are a cornerstone of a vibrant community in south-central Wisconsin that provides fairly priced goods and services while supporting local and organic suppliers. We have three stores and an online shopping & delivery service.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

A few things: our commitment to local products - over one-third of everything we sell is grown, raised, or made locally. Our commitment to sustainability, from solar and wind power, to carrying produce that avoids most conventional pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, to composting. And the fact that we’re a cooperative, existing for the benefit of and owned by over 30,000 people here in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin State Journal

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

Best Jewelry Store Goodman’s Jewelers

You don’t have to be a member to shop at our stores - everyone is welcome! Come on in and check us out.

Number of Years in Business: 88 220 State Street, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 257-3644

What brings customers back to your business?

www.goodmansjewelers.com

The freshness and quality of our fruits and vegetables.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

We’re the longest standing jewelry store in Madison. We’ve been in business for over 88 years. We think people understand that we are here because of the quality of work we do and they trust that we will be here for them for many years to come.

What makes your business a good place to work?

Our shared interest in providing our community with good food and having awesome coworkers.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

What brings customers back to your business?

Our team does NOT work on commission. We want everyone to be guaranteed a relaxed and pressure free experience. Oh, and John has enough ties to not repeat a single one for 7 months :)

The engagement from Coop Owners! We love it when they use “we,” like when they say “When do you think we’ll have heirloom tomatoes in this year?” They understand that the Co-op is their business; we’re just running it.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

The first thing many people notice is that our stores don’t smell like most grocery stores - most of our fresh produce is not in plastic, so you can smell fruits and vegetables, you can smell fresh ground coffee, whatever soup is available in our Deli on that day. It just smells great.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice? We greatly appreciate this recognition!

What are you most proud of?

I’m proud of our staff members, particularly their dedication and hard work throughout the pandemic.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Truly listening to the customer and working to at least satisfy their need if not create some extra joy in their day.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

“Concern for the Community” is the Seventh Cooperative Principle, so it’s a big part of what we do. I’ll give you just a few examples. We’ve collected about $3.5 million at our registers since 1990 for Community CHIP(TM), which distributes the money to local non-profits. We are presenting sponsors of Middleton’s Good Neighbor Festival and Fete de Marquette. We collect food donations for local food pantries.

How do you build trust with clients, patients, or customers?

We often hear that people appreciate and value our philanthropy and support for this community. We love Madison and definitely feel it’s our duty to help where we can. Our goal is to treat everyone who walks in like family because we wouldn’t be here without all of you.

What makes your business a good place to work?

We have a small team here so we simply asked them. It was comical because they all said the same thing! They love their coworkers! It makes it easy to go to work when your job is fun and your surrounded by people you enjoy.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

We love the diversity of Madison, especially on State St. We feel very lucky to be surrounded by fantastic neighbors, small business, and fabulous restaurants.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

1. A welcoming staff that is happy to help you find what you’re looking for without any sort of pressure. 2. A large, gorgeous selection of engagement rings, fashion jewelry, diamond jewelry, watches, and pearls. 3. You can expect to leave with a smile.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

We’re honored! We are so appreciative that our community see’s value in what we do and who we are. We can’t thank everyone enough for the support! We promise to do everything we can to continue to earn your trust and vote.

What are you most proud of?

The dedication and hard work of our team.

What is your secret to good customer service? Honesty, integrity, and always listen.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We’re proud to sponsor the American Family Children’s Hospital Radiothon.

Transparency. We have demonstrated this by, among other ways, publicly announcing when a staff member tested positive for COVID-19; publishing our income statement and balance sheet; and printing in our newsletter our responses to constructive criticism.

What makes you popular?

Our produce department gets the most love of any area of our stores.

What makes your business popular with families?

Our kids cooking classes (temporarily virtual), our kid-sized shopping carts, and our foods made for a variety of diets.

FAVORITES

Hoey Apothecary Woodman’s Food Market Wisconsin State Journal

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

We love creating special pieces of jewelry and donating the proceeds to the organizations that are doing great thing around Madison like the Boys & Girls Club and the Goodman Community Center. Every Monday we donate all of the watch battery sales to Jewelers for Children which gives and supports numerous children’s charities. We’re proud to sponsor Duck Soup Cinema. We do are best to support numerous non-profits and help where ever we can.

How do you build trust with customers?

We listen. People come in to celebrate or commemorate very meaningful milestones in their lives. We are honored that we get to share in that with them and in that conversation friendships blossom, trust is built, and lifelong relationships are made. We have an amazing selection of jewelry, but we have an even better team that will help you find exactly what you want/what is right for you.

What makes you popular?

Quality service, a FANTASTIC Goldsmith, and a top notch team.

What makes your business popular with families?

We’re now seeing 3rd generations walk through the doors, for many coming to Goodman’s is a family tradition. Also, kids and furry friends are ALWAYS welcome!

FAVORITES

Burnie’s Rock Shop Condon Jewelers

Best Mattress Retailer Steinhafels

5215 High Crossing Blvd., Madison, WI, 53718 (608) 237-1199 2164 West Beltline Hwy., Madison, WI, 53713 (608) 288-5000 7333 Mineral Point Road., Madison, WI, 53717 (608) 237-1195 2812 Prairie Lakes Drive, Sun Prairie, WI, 53590 (608) 237-1195 www.steinhafels.com

Best Pet Supplies Mounds Pet Food Warehouse Number of Years in Business: 52

2422 Montana Avenue, Sun Prairie, WI 53590 8311 University Avenue, Middleton, WI 53562 5350 King James Way, Fitchburg, WI 53719 2110 S. Stoughton Road, Madison, WI 53716 (608) 825-9800 www.Moundspet.com Mounds Pet Food Warehouse is an employee- owned and locally operated pet food and pet supply company located in Wisconsin with five locations: Middleton, Fitchburg, Janesville, Madison, and Sun Prairie. Mounds is well known for its community involvement, supporting local humane societies, rescue groups, service animal groups, and Police K9 Units.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Mounds is committed to reducing pet overpopulation. For that reason, Mounds hosts in-store Satellite Adoption Centers at select locations that are staffed and run by local humane societies or rescues.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

Mounds offers over 1,300 types of dog food, 1,000 types of cat food, pet beds, thousands of toys, treats, and chews, supplies for your small animals, birds, and reptiles too! Mounds is wall-to-wall with everything you could possibly need for your pet!

What brings customers back to your business?

Mounds employees receive extensive customer service and pet product training. Mounds employees are always happy to answer questions and be a resource for customers and their pets.

What makes your business a good place to work?

When you work at Mounds, you work alongside employees who are passionate about what they do for the customers and community. Mounds takes pride in being a socially conscious business, cultivating and building relationships with rescue groups, humane societies, animal organizations, and Police K9s for the greater good of their missions, the community, and its animals. Work is more than just work when you are surrounded by passionate people, are giving back to others, and are an important part of the lives of people and their pets.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

FAVORITES

A1 Furniture & Mattress Verlo Mattress Wisconsin Bedding Company

Best Outdoor/ Sporting Goods Store REI

7483 W Towne Way, Madison, WI 53719 (608) 833-6680 www.rei.com

The support Mounds receives from customers helps Mounds support the community in return, which is what Mounds employees enjoy most!

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Choices, choices, choices, choices... and Mounds employees who are able to help you find what you are looking for, answer questions, and narrow all those choices down.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

Mounds is happy to know that the customer service and community support provided is not only noticed and appreciated, but at a level that is award-winning. Mounds will continue to work to uphold that standard in the coming years.

What are you most proud of?

Mounds is proud to have served the community for over 50 years and is looking forward to another 50 years!

What is your secret to good customer service?

FAVORITES

Cabela’s Fontana Sports Specialties

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Mounds provides its employees the tools to be successful and grow within the company which shows in the customer service provided.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Mounds takes pride in the work done within the community by providing assistance, donations, and opportunities to local shelters, animal groups, and K9 units frequently. A few Mounds locations house Satellite adoptions centers allowing animal shelter groups to house and adopt animals out of Mounds locations. The shelters and K9 officers Mounds partners with receive

Wisconsin State Journal

free Mounds Dog Power or Purrfect Cat brand food, available to pick up at their convenience and often as they need throughout the year. Throughout the year, there are also fundraisers and donation opportunities to raise money or items for partnering shelters and other animal-related non-profits.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

How do you build trust with customers?

Mounds employees are animal owners and lovers with a wealth of knowledge and training to provide expertise, guidance, and assistance.

We are honored by the community’s excitement about their shopping experiences. We commit to continuing excellence in product offerings and exceptional service in our stores.

What makes your business popular with families?

What are you most proud of?

Mounds welcomes pets into the stores to shop alongside their humans. It allows the entire family to take a trip to Mounds!

FAVORITES

MadCat Pet Supplies Animart Pet Store

Best Resale Shop Society of St. Vincent de Paul - Madison Number of Years in Business: 80 years in Madison 2033 Fish Hatchery Road, Madison, WI 53725 1309 Williamson Street, Madison, WI 53703 6301 Odana Road, Madison, WI 53719 1900 S Park Street, Madison, WI 53713 (608) 442-7200 http://svdpmadison.org Our global mission is to help people in need. In Dane County, we supply basic needs, including food, housing, medicine, and more to people coping with poverty. Thrift store operations help support the mission work of the Society.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Shoppers love our special store events where they can choose from hundreds of items in selected categories at thrift store prices. Favorite events include designer clothing at our Trunk Sales, premium outdoor wear during Wilderness Chic, and Badger, Packers, and Harley Davidson clothing events.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

The proceeds from our thrift store sales help support our mission work. In 2020, we provided free goods and services valued at $2.4 million to Dane county neighbors in need. Of that, nearly $300,000 came directly from the thrift stores in the form of clothing, furniture, and household goods.

What brings customers back to your business?

Our staff are attentive, our stores have an amazing selection of quality clothing, furniture, and household goods at prices that can’t be beat. Our stores are easy and fun to shop.

What makes your business a good place to work?

Our staff members are proud to work for a mission-based organization. They understand their work - in every position - serves neighbors in need. We offer competitive pay, excellent benefits, and caring management. And we offer work with a higher purpose.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

Dane County has been good to us - as shoppers in our 7 thrift stores to support the mission, in donating goods for sale in our stores, and in providing financial support that allows us to help neighbors in need. It’s a vibrant community that cares about others.

Wisconsin State Journal

A great selection of goods, a fun shopping experience, and well-trained and helpful staff.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

Because of the generosity of the community through their shopping and donations of goods and money, in 2020, we helped 70,000 people struggling with poverty to have healthy food, needed medicine, safe shelter and more!

What is your secret to good customer service?

Mission-oriented employees who are well trained and excited about the work they do.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We run one of the largest food pantries in Dane County, a housing programs for men, single women, and mothers with children, the only stand-alone charitable pharmacy in the state, and provide other support to Dane County residents in need. We voucher thousands of dollars worth of goods to people who need them through our thrift stores as well.

How do you build trust with clients, patients, or customers?

We offer excellence at every opportunity, whether it is a shopping experience in our stores or meeting the needs of clients and patients in our service programs. We believe in the value and dignity of each person and strive to demonstrate that in every interaction.

What makes your business popular with families?

Great merchandise at great prices in a fun shopping environment.

FAVORITES

Agrace Thrift Store Habitat ReStore

SERVICES Best Bank Monona Bank

Number of Years in Business: 30 5515 Monona Drive, Monona , WI 53716 6430 Bridge Road, Monona, WI 53713 1965 Atwood Avenue, Madison, WI 53704 3207 Parmenter Street, Middleton, WI 53562 27 W. Main Street , Belleville, WI 53508 229 Douglas Drive, Brooklyn, WI 53521 341 W. Cottage Grove Rd., Cottage Grove, WI 53527 2615 Westview Court, Cross Plains, WI 53528 603 Phillips Boulevard, Sauk City, WI 53583 (608) 223-3000 www.mononabank.com Monona Bank is a locally owned and managed bank offering a full range of personal and business banking products, as well as the investment service, you need to help you reach your financial goals. All banking decisions are made locally – by our experienced team of associates who truly understand our local economy and work hard to ensure both our clients, and our communities prosper.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Monona Bank works hard to make your banking easy. That means no “got-

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

THANK YOU FOR RECOGNIZING US AS A FAVORITE

chas,” hidden fees or other surprises. As your financial partner, we are only successful when our clients and communities prosper.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

Since our original location was built on the site of an A&W Drive In, we offer free root beer in all nine of our locations.

What brings customers back to your business?

Focused on serving our clients, supporting our colleagues, and investing in our communities. Visit our website for career opportunities!

The true partnerships and trust they develop with our associates.

GLENN NAGEL PHOTOGRAPHY

What makes your business a good place to work?

Monona Bank truly values our associates and go the extra mile to provide a healthy work life balance, as well as excellent health and financial benefits.

What do you love most about having your business in this community? With nine locations in eight communities, we love the variety of clients we get to work with, and the variety of financial goals and business types we have the opportunity to assist.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors? To be greeted by one of our associates as you walk into our lobby, many times by your first name.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

This award is a huge honor for us as we believe it shows all of the work we put in to make banking easier for clients and the investments we make everyday in our communities to make them great places to work and live, are being recognized by our neighbors.

What are you most proud of?

Monona Bank is very proud that we continue to live up to our founders vision to provide our communities with a locally owned bank, staffed by a knowledgeable team who understand and can reinvest back into our local economies.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Our clients are not just account numbers to us. We take the time necessary to understand our clients’

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Wisconsin State Journal

specific needs and build the trust with them that allows us to help them plan for their financial futures.

What are you most proud of?

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

What is your secret to good customer service?

We are active, both financially and with our associates’ time and talent, with numerous non-profits and other organizations in all eight of our communities. During the recent pandemic, we created our Strength in Neighbors Campaign to support the most immediate needs in our communities.

How do you build trust with customers?

Our associates have the experience and take the time necessary to “listen between the lines” when working with clients to help determine what their needs and goals truly are. We understand that each client has specific needs and work with each to create a plan that will help them reach their goals.

What makes you popular?

Complimentary root beer in our lobbies and cookies each “first Friday of the month” keep us pretty popular with our clients and neighbors.

What makes your business popular with families?

As a community bank, we believe its never too early to start saving, and how important it is to teach kids good savings habits. Our Junior Savings product is fun and rewarding way for families to ensure their children learn good saving habits.

FAVORITES

Farmers & Merchants State Bank One Community Bank

Best Carpet Cleaners Zerorez Madison

Number of Years in Business: 10 1155 Clarity Street, Suite 205, Verona, WI 53593 (608) 239-7609 www.zerorezmadison.com Zerorez Madison is a locally owned franchise specializing in carpet cleaning for residential and business customers. Zerorez Madison also cleans tile, upholstery, area rugs and air ducts. We have been in business for 10 years and have more than 2,000 google reviews.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Zerorez changed the industry when it brought its patented HWE (“steam cleaning”) method to market. Using electrolyzed water instead of traditional soaps or detergents, carpets are cleaned better and stay cleaner longer. Zerorez’s cleaning method has earned the Carpet and Rug Institutes highest Platinum rating.

Being able to employ 15 awesome people. We focus first on the golden rule for both our own staff and our customers. But we also strive to hire good-hearted people we would want to have in our own mother’s/grandmother’s home.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We sponsor a program to help the Dane County Humane Society with their adoptions (Tail Waggin Tuesdays on WMMM) and we also provide some cleanings for non-profits during our slow month.

How do you build trust with customers?

Do a great job. Be sure the service and experience is consistent every time they clean.

What makes your business popular with families?

We use a green cleaning system that is safe for pets and children.

FAVORITES

White Knight Carpet Rescue Inc Chem-Dry of Madison

Best Child Day Care Facility Preschool of the Arts

Number of Years in Business: 50 years 11 Science Court, Madison, WI 53711 (608) 233-1707 preschoolofthearts.com PSA is a Reggio-inspired, fine arts integrated preschool/kindergarten/childcare that is located on Madison’s west side, but serves Madison and the surrounding areas. We believe that children are creative, capable, and social beings, and our community consists of strong children, experienced teachers, and engaged families. Our learning environment is inviting, inspiring, and safe, which fosters play and connects to the natural world.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

We are a Reggio-inspired program that integrates our educational program with the fine arts.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? We have been a staple in the Madison community for over 50 years!

What brings customers back to your business?

Long-standing relationships between the staff and teachers and the children and families as well as the meaningful projects and explorations.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? Zerorez is a palindrome that stands for ZERO-RESIDUE.

What brings customers back to your business?

The cleaning process is outstanding, but we pride ourselves in having a courteous, friendly and hard-working staff. We like to make people happy.

What makes your business a good place to work?

Set schedules, good pay, benefits, and an ability to work on your own while still being part of a team.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

I have lived in Madison for the majority of my life. I went to grade school here and then back for college and stayed ever since. This is an outstanding place to live and we are grateful to serve this community.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

Winning the People’s Choice award is an honor. Our technicians work hard and take pride in doing a great job. We appreciate the community’s recognition with this award.

Wisconsin State Journal

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

What makes your business a good place to work?

We offer competitive wages and benefits and a community feel.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

What do you love most about having your business in this community? Community pride.

We love having generation after generation come through PSA! Watching the children grow up and bring their children back to PSA is a true gift for all of us!

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

What are you most proud of?

They can expect a lovely, friendly staff and an environment filled with children’s artwork, music, and laughter. There is usually good food cooking or baking, and a warm and welcoming feel.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

It is an honor and a validation for all of the hard work and dedication PSA has had to the Madison community and in the field of preschool and childcare.

Recognition of a job well-done is always great.

We are proud of each other and the contributions we ALL make in the industry.

FAVORITES

Vogel Bros. Building Co. Kraemer Brothers

What are you most proud of?

We are extremely proud of how we have weathered the COVID storm. We are also proud of being a mainstay in the childcare industry in Madison!

What is your secret to good customer service?

We understand how difficult it can be to make the decision for your child to attend preschool or childcare. We create a nurturing, supportive environment for our families.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We have partnered with organizations in the community to provide art experiences for children, and we continue to create classroom and school “compassion” projects that give back to the Madison community.

How do you build trust with clients?

Both administration and teaching staff are open and available to our families. We have an extensive documentation process that highlights the learning and creative processes that occur in our classrooms and school.

What makes your business popular with families?

Our unique and individual approach PSA takes with each child, helping to create a generation of thoughtful, reflective, creative, and compassionate leaders and individuals.

FAVORITES

Yahara River Learning Center Ginger Bread House

Best Commercial Construction Company J.H. Findorff & Son Inc

Number of Years in Business: 132 300 S. Bedford Street, Madison, WI 53703 1600 N 6th Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53212 226890 Harrier Ave., Wausau, WI 54401 (608) 442-7345 www.findorff.com One of the largest Midwest’s Commercial Contractors.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

We are a legacy builder with a reputation for caring for our community.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? We employ over 1,000 people.

What brings customers back to your business?

Our exceptional worth ethic and ability to solve problems.

What makes your business a good place to work? We are the best in our industry.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Best Credit Union Summit Credit Union

Number of Years in Business: 86 1709 Landmark Drive, Cottage Grove, WI 53527 (800) 236-5560 www.summitcreditunion.com As Madison’s largest credit union, and the #1 Mortgage Lender in Wisconsin, Summit Credit Union is all about helping you turn wishing, waiting and wondering into planning, doing and experiencing. We offer all the products you’d expect from a financial institution, like checking and savings accounts, credit cards and loans. But, we go further, providing financial guidance, education, tools, one-on-one coaching and innovative programs to empower you to own your financial life wherever you are.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Summit is a not-for-profit financial cooperative; our earnings go back to our members. Think higher interest rates on savings, lower rates on loans and our year-end cash back reward, Cash Boomerang.* And, anyone can join Summit.. If you move, retire, or change jobs, you’ll always be able to enjoy the benefits of membership. *No minimum balances are required to be eligible for the program. Any fees/ charges applied to an account will reduce the account balance and result in less dividends earned. A checking account must be open as of 9/30 of year of payment to be eligible for the program. Only members in good standing at the date of the payout will receive as long as the Cash Boomerang computes to $10 or more, with a maximum of $1,000. Cash Boomerang is not guaranteed. Cash Boomerang is a dividend and subject to tax reporting.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

On average, our member households save $440 per year, some a lot more, compared to doing business with the average for-profit bank in Wisconsin.* *Average primary savings over the cost of doing business with a for-profit banking institution in WI. Your savings may vary based on your creditworthiness and other factors.

What brings customers back to your business?

Summit feels like a friendly cooperative rather than a large corporation…because it is. Plus, we speak your language so you’ll have a clear understanding when discussing your finances. We also offer low rates on loan products and higher interest rates on savings so you can make the most of your money. And, business is quick, simple and easy.

What makes your business a good place to work?

At Summit we want employees to learn, grow, make a difference and have fun doing it! Summit is a place to thrive. We offer great benefits, like student loan payback and tuition reimbursement, plus competitive health and dental coverage, retirement plans, flexible schedules and paid time off. We’re also committed to healthy communities, which is why we offer paid volunteer hours. We believe diversity is our strength. We live our commitment to equity and inclusion every day.

Wisconsin State Journal

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

We’ve been part of the Madison area since 1935, when we were founded as CUNA Credit Union, and now we’re the second largest credit union in the state with more than 217,000 members. Back in 1935 Madison only had about 63,000 residents, so we feel like we’ve grown up together.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

We try to make your financial life fun, and we want to help you build financial security and wealth for you, your family and community. Whether you’re participating in programs like Project Money, looking for a better checking account, planning for a new home or exploring options to refinance an auto loan, we will to help you succeed. Together, we look at your complete financial picture and find the best ways to put your money to work for you at home and in business.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

We’re so proud to be voted Madison’s Best Credit Union, as well as best business for customer service and wealth management. We love being a go-to financial partner that the Madison-area community (and beyond) can count on. We hope our members enjoy working with us as much as we enjoy working with them!

What are you most proud of?

lives richer. We develop strong relationships with community partners so we can make a difference together. In addition to serving our members, our employees believe in serving the community. Community outreach is a value that is rooted in the core of the credit union difference – and all about people helping people. A few ways we give back include employee volunteer efforts, partnerships with local charities and free financial education events.

How do you build trust with customers?

We’re always open and honest. After all, it’s your money.

FAVORITES

UW Credit Union Dane County Credit Union

Best Dry Cleaners Klinke Cleaners

Number of Years in Business: 63 4518 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716 (608) 222-6060 klinkecleaners.com

We’re proud to be able to help so many people each and every day, like the 4,486 people we’ve helped with home loans this year getting them into a new home, first home, refinancing their current home, or finding funds for home improvements; or the nearly 400,000 people we reach each year with financial education.

We are a full service dry cleaning operation that offers same-day service in our stores (in by 10am, ready by 4pm) and we offer free pickup and delivery service to most of Dane County.

What is your secret to good customer service?

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Listen. Be empathetic. Find a way to help. Summit feels like a friendly cooperative rather than a large corporation…because it is.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We’re people helping people. We believe strong communities makes all our

Our willingness to adapt to customer preferences and our connection with the community makes us different than our competitors. For 35 years we have collected winter coats for the less fortunate in Dane County. We also have adapted our practices over time to add delivery and environmental packaging options.

Thank You For Voting Us Best Roof/Gutter Company & Best Window Company

WINDOW REPLACEMENT, KITCHEN AND BATHROOM REMODELING FROM MADISON’S RENOVATION EXPERTS.

waunakeeremodeling.com

608.268.7140 Wisconsin State Journal

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? We are launching a delivery service for your home laundry! Many customers are tired of doing laundry and they want the option to farm it out so they can get busy living life. Well, we’re happy to make that dream come true!

What brings customers back to your business?

Our quality and convenience continues to bring customers back to Klinke Cleaners.

What makes your business a good place to work?

Our staff is amazing. They are fun, kind, and they make a great team for their current (and future) teammates.

What do you love most about having your business in this community? Madison has been our family’s home for over 100 years. We have enjoyed watching it evolve and we’re proud to be part of its story.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

A friendly atmosphere that allows you to be on your way as quickly as possible. We recognize that dry cleaning is still an errand and so we try to make it as quick for you via our express service and our drive thrus so you can go about your day knowing that we will take good care of your clothes.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

We are honored to win the People’s Choice Award. We’ve won the award every year for 12 years straight but we never take it for granted that we will win each year. We strive every year to win this award and we do that by earning the readers’ votes. If we keep winning then we know we’re staying current with the needs of our customers.

What are you most proud of?

We are proud of our staff. They are a team. They make the company what it is.

What brings customers back to your business? Great customer service.

What makes your business a good place to work? Family-friendly.

What do you love most about having your business in this community? Building lasting relationships with customers.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors? Friendly employees who want to provide repairs or replacements.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

It means we can share how much we want to work with customers in the greater Madison area.

What are you most proud of?

Employees who enjoy serving customers.

What is your secret to good customer service? Responsive to customers’ requests.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Susan G. Komen, Lennox Feel the Love, Mechanical Industries annual Heat’s On.

How do you build trust with clients?

We build trust by listening and providing a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee.

FAVORITES

Cardinal Heating & Air Conditioning Dave Jones, Inc.

What is your secret to good customer service? Train and trust your team.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We collect winter coats for our Koats for Kids program each September. We have also participated in the All Dressed Up prom dress drive to collect prom dresses for girls who would otherwise not be able to afford a dress.

How do you build trust with customers?

We build trust with the consistency of our service. We want our customers to have faith that our service will be accurate every time.

What makes your business popular?

Our attentiveness to detail while maximizing customer convenience has been a cornerstone of our success.

What makes your business popular with families?

Families love that they don’t have to spend time cleaning and ironing clothes! We save them time so they can live their lives. We also make sure they look perfect in their clothes. Successful people know how to dress the part of a leader and they rely on us to make them look good.

FAVORITES

Lake Mills Cleaners & Dyers, Inc. Sisters On Main Drycleaners LLC

Best Electrician All Comfort Services 47 Years in Business

5245 Voges Road, Madison, WI 53718 (608) 838-7300 www.allcomfortservices.com What makes you stand out from the competition? We offer value and service.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

Best Funeral Home Gunderson Funeral and Cremation Care

Number of Years in Business: Since 1922 5203 Monona Drive, Monona, WI 53716 (608) 221-5420 www.gundersonfh.com After losing a loved one, Gunderson Funeral and Cremation Care will help celebrate a loved one’s life. Our staff has experience planning a variety of funeral services and can assist a family in honoring a loved one no matter the personal preference, budget, culture, or religion. We pride ourselves on serving the Cross Plains, Fitchburg, Lodi, Madison, Middleton, Oregon, Stoughton, Mt. Horeb and Black Earth communities and surrounding areas with caring and compassionate service.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Gunderson’s is a fourth generation, family owned business that is invested in the communities it serves. We have nine convenient locations to serve families throughout south central Wisconsin. Our experienced and creative staff is dedicated to providing compassionate and caring service while honoring each unique life lived. Their experience and expertise is expansive in order to serve those who still look for traditional services, life celebrations as well as families who wish to honor their loved one with a “green” burial. Their experience further includes serving families of a variety of faiths and cultures. Our facilities continue to be updated to meet the changing demands of our customers and how they honor a loved one. Gunderson’s also offers after-care services and resources to assist in the grieving process long after the death.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

In a time when many companies are corporately owned, we have been a locally and family owned business for 99 years.

What brings customers back to your business?

The quality and compassionate care we provide and our willingness to stand behind the services we offer.

We install home car charging stations.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Wisconsin State Journal

What makes your business a good place to work?

Being a family owned business, the Gunderson family not only invests in the business, but invests in its staff. It is a great team of people and there is an emphasis on brand and culture that creates a wonderful work environment in which the employees truly get along and feel valued.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

Madison is truly a great community with a wide variety of activities, events, and opportunities that allow us to recruit talented people from outside the Madison area. Also, the people of Madison have been very supportive of Gunderson’s which makes our families privilege and pleasure to serve.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Customers can expect to be greeted by caring individuals who are truly passionate about serving people and love what they do. They will find they are served by a team of individuals who have a common goal of making a difficult time easier for the families we serve.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

Best Greenhouse/Garden Center Kopke’s Greenhouse

Number of Years in Business: 41 1828 Sand Hill Rd, Oregon, WI 53575 (608) 835-7569 www.kopkesgreenhouse.com We’re a locally owned plant nursery and garden center specializing in amazing annual, perennial, & vegetable plants, decorative planters, and hanging baskets. Open for spring from mid-April to mid-July, and fall from September through October.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

We get a lot of joy out of offering the widest selection of amazing plants at reasonable prices, and the best customer service you’ll find anywhere!

We are truly grateful and honored to be selected as the “Peoples Choice” for the 6th consecutive year. We wish to thank everyone for their continued trust and loyalty to our organization.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

What are you most proud of?

The plants and the people. So many customers have told us that we’re their ‘happy place’ and it’s really humbling to know we give so many people such joy.

In a community with other reputable and established funeral businesses, we have had the privilege of serving families for multiple generations. Their trust and confidence in our services means everything to us.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Establishing a benchmark for what an excellent customer is and building that as your brand and culture. Our benchmark begins with striving to exceed expectations and to treat each and every family as if they were part of our own family.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Gunderson ownership and employees have given back to the community for years. They have held leadership positions on various non-profit foundations and organizations. They support various community fundraising activities by sponsoring and participating in such events as the Catholic Charities Golf Outing, the Blue Mass for area police and firefighters, McFarland Education Foundation, various run/walks, Red Cross Blood Drive, etc. The staff of Gunderson’s are active members of local churches and service clubs in which they give back to the community through those organizations. The Gunderson team will also take unused funeral luncheon food to various food shelters for the homeless. This past year, Gunderson Funeral home partnered with the Catholic Multi-Cultural Center to provide catering options to families. The Catholic Multi-Cultural Center provides food service training and work experience to people struggling to find and keep employment.

How do you build trust with clients, patients, or customers?

We build trust by treating customers the way they deserve and expect to be treated; by listening to their needs and providing solutions they may not have thought of on their own, providing comfort and healing during a very difficult time.

What makes you popular?

In addition to families we serve, we have earned the respect of health care workers, clergy, and professional associates, allowing us to build our business on their referrals which continues to improve our reputation.

What makes your business popular with families?

Losing a loved one can be overwhelming, and having a familiar ownership team and staff that have cared for them for years, they know we will be here when they need our services again. This provides them great comfort and reassurance at a very difficult time.

FAVORITES

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service Ryan Funeral Home

Wisconsin State Journal

We’re open in the fall too! Usually September through October.

What brings customers back to your business?

What makes your business a good place to work?

The people that work here are some of the best in the industry and are a lot of fun to be around. We’re constantly learning new things from each other and our customers, the pay is pretty darn good, and we’re surrounded by plants all day long! How can you beat that!?

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

Our customers are fantastic. It’s very rare that someone walks in with a bad mood, and even when they do, they find something or have an experience that leaves them a little better off when they leave. That’s so cool.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Our customers can expect a warm greeting, a eyeful of amazing plants, and staff willing to make sure you have a great experience while you’re here!

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

It’s humbling to know there are so many folks out there who hold us in such high regard! We spend a lot of time and energy trying to give everyone the best experience we can and we’re grateful that people think we’re hitting that mark.

What are you most proud of?

Our staff. They work their tails off for this business. During the season, it can be hot, humid, cold, rainy, snowing (sometimes in a single day), and they’re giving it all. They get dirty, tired, wet, ornery, and stressed out at times, and yet they’re out there getting it done. Seven days a week.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Great staff that want to see our customers succeed. Worrying a little less about the bottom line and more about building long-term relationships and loyalty with our customers goes a long way too. Those two investments cost a little more in the short term, but return so much more to our business, staff, and customers in the long term. We’re darn lucky to have such amazing people engaging themselves in the success of our customers and our business!

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We like to support a number of local and regional activities and organizations. We generally don’t talk about that stuff publicly all that much though. We’re just happy to help where and when we can. :-)

How do you build trust with clients, patients, or customers?

We try to meet them at their level. Like any other activity, there are folks with various levels of knowledge, experience, and interest. It’s important for us to understand where they are, what they want, and how best to get them where they want to go. We also like to be there to help answer questions, make suggestions, and just gab about plants and gardening ‘cause its fun!

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

FAVORITES

Klein’s Floral And Greenhouses K&A Greenhouse

Best Heating & Air Conditioning Harker Heating & Cooling

Number of Years in Business: Since 1949 - 72 Years 87 West Beltline Highway, Madison, WI 53713 (608) 255-6902 www.harkerheating.com Together with our team members, HVAC technicians and manufacturer partners, we’ve been able to sustain a company that puts its Midwestern values up front and center. When you’re in need of HVAC repairs or replacement, you can bet on receiving an honest estimate and a firm handshake to demonstrate our commitment to serving you.

Best Home Improvement Nonn’s | Kitchen, Bath & Flooring Number of Years in Business: 37

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Our Big-Box Prices, Boutique Selections, & Complimentary Design Services are unlike any other.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

We just opened a newly-remodeled location in New Berlin Wisconsin—in the old Harley-Davidson building!

What brings customers back to your business?

They know that we can help bring the dreams they have for their home to life.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

What makes your business a good place to work?

We stand behind everything we do. We’re in this for the long haul and being honest and upfront with our customers gives us a great foundation to work from.

What brings customers back to your business?

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

Consistent level of service and installation.

What makes your business a good place to work? A friendly, open, and warm atmosphere.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

Madison and the surrounding communities are friendly, welcoming, and diverse.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

A smile, plenty of inspiration, and a trusted partner that will be with you every step of the way.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

They can expect us to be open and fair. We will stand behind our work.

It means the world to us. And it tells us we must be doing something right. It motivates us to keep delivering the best possible service we can.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

What are you most proud of?

It means a lot to us. All of our staff works hard and this is the result of that.

What are you most proud of?

Being in business in this area since 1949. We’re proud to offer job stability through the many changes we’ve all experienced in recent and far memory.

What is your secret to good customer service? Open and good communication.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community? We donate to various charities and movements locally.

How do you build trust with customers? By being open, fair and honest.

FAVORITES

All Comfort Services Cardinal Heating & Air Conditioning

Our team and our work. It really does feel like a family here, and when that family can help other families build their dreams? Well, there’s nothing better.

What is your secret to good customer service? Come up with the best solution possible.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We sponsor a number of events for local builder and remodeler associations: NARI, MBA, MABA, etc. We also support several local charities: Operation Finally Home, Habitat For Humanity, The Sunshine Place, Middleton Outreach Ministry and more.

How do you build trust with clients, patients, or customers?

What makes your business popular with families? We help them create a home they’ll love for a lifetime.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Wisconsin State Journal

FAVORITES

Waunakee Remodeling Marling Homeworks Ridge Top Exteriors

Best Landscape Company The Bruce Company

Number of Years in Business: 69 2830 Parmenter Street, Middleton, WI 53562 (608) 836-7041 www.brucecompany.com The Bruce Company is your outdoor living experts. The Bruce Company provides full landscaping services for both residential and commercial customers in southern Wisconsin. At our garden center in Middleton you can find everything to complete your landscape and garden!

What makes you stand out from the competition?

The Bruce Company helps you create outdoor living spaces by providing premium quality products, superior customer service along with exceptional value.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

Leland Bruce started The Bruce Company in 1952 at age 12. Next year will be our 70th Anniversary in Business!

What brings customers back to your business?

At The Bruce Company, we are dedicated to making your landscaping dreams become a reality. Our landscape professionals have obtained the solid academic credentials, and the field experience necessary to develop and execute the most creative landscapes for your backyard or business. We can assist you in every aspect of your project, large or small. From landscape design to construction, we make your landscape ideas come to life.

What makes your business a good place to work?

The Bruce Company provides a unique culture that is family-focused and employee-driven. Our team at The Bruce Company is our greatest strength. Together we are building a bright future that delivers the service and quality products that our customers have come to expect over the years.

What do you love most about having your business in this community? The Bruce Company loves their customers and work hard every day to satisfy their outdoor living needs. We can’t thank our customers enough for all the support they have given us throughout the years.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

We pride ourselves on being your one-stop shop for all your outdoor living.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice? Thanks to everyone who voted for us. It is greatly appreciated.

What are you most proud of?

We can’t thank the Madison/Dane County community enough for supporting us through our almost 70 years in business.

What is your secret to good customer service?

We listen to our customers and try to put their needs above everything else in all that we do.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community? The Bruce Company has worked with many great organizations in and around Dane county. Over the last number of years we have partnered with, and had events supporting the Friends of Pheasant Branch Conservancy, Middleton First Responders, Middleton Outreach Ministry, Gilda’s Club, Ronald McDonald House and Gio’s Garden, just to name a few. We are humble to be able to work with so many great groups in and around the area.

How do you build trust with clients, patients, or customers?

The first way to build trust is to listen to customers and do what you say you are going to do. The teams at The Bruce Company pride themselves at keeping customers happy, and keeping them coming back. As Lee Bruce has said – “The best marketing is a job well done”.

What makes your event (or attraction) popular?

We try to make every day at The Bruce Company a fun and exciting experience for our customers. We also try to host events at our Middleton Garden Center that are family-focused and support the local community. With each event we try to select a local charitable organization to could greatly benefit from the interaction and exposure that the event lends. Two major events we have yet this year are our Fall-Fest slated for October and our Reindeer Fly-In in December. We hope to see you there!

What makes your business popular with families?

Families enjoy visiting The Garden Center to help you define your individual outdoor lifestyle, offering the area’s largest selection of new and exciting plants. We search the world to bring unique gifts, whimsical garden accessories and the most comfortable casual furniture.

FAVORITES

Olson Toon Landscaping Inc. Barnes, Inc.

Best Law Firm Wilson Law Group, LLC

Number of Years in Business: 26 years 7633 Ganser Way, Suite 100, Madison, WI 53719 (608) 833-4001 https://wilsonlawgroup.com Wilson Law Group is a boutique estate planning firm that provides service to families all over Southeastern Wisconsin. We are board-certified attorneys who specialize in planning for families in all stages of life. We provide guidance on avoiding unnecessary taxes, counsel those who are concerned about the impact of nursing home care, and work with small business owners and farm families. We also offer a unique maintenance program for our clients.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

We have a maintenance program for our clients to ensure that they have regular updates to their planning, both legal and personal. The program also offers a wide range of education for both our clients and their successors to assure a smooth transition when a life-changing event occurs.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? Our partners are Board-Certified Estate Planning Specialists.

Wisconsin State Journal

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Best Marble/Granite Nonn’s | Kitchen, Bath & Flooring Number of Years in Business: 37

7550 Graber Road, Middleton, WI 53562 5952 Haase Road, Madison, WI 53532 1925 S. Moorland Road, New Berlin, WI 53151 (608) 836-8833 www.nonns.com See Bio on pages 56-57, 70-71 Services: Best Home Improvement What brings customers back to your business?

The high level of education that we provide to them about their planning and the need to keep things current as the law and their family situations change.

What makes your business a good place to work?

Our team at Wilson Law Group strives to have a vibrant and on-purpose environment that is client-focused, but done with a family atmosphere.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

The standard of living in Southern Wisconsin and in Madison is amazing and we love the great variety of needs that we can provide solutions to.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

We offer no-obligation consultations and we will spend a significant amount of time to get to know people as they become our clients. We then are able to give them customized options to meet their needs and reasonable costbenefit analysis for each type of plan.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

It is always amazing to be recognized by the community. Our firm works very hard to maintain an excellent reputation and this is a reflection of that hard work.

What are you most proud of?

FAVORITES

Madison Block & Stone LLC. Wisconsin Granite

Best Mortgage Banker/Lender Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation, NMLS #2289

4750 S Biltmore Lane, Madison , WI 53718 (608) 834-1333 5940 Seminole Centre Ct. #310, Madison , WI 53711 (608) 834-1333 2802 Coho Street Suite 204, Madison , WI 53713 (608) 807-5262 771 Lois Drive, Sun Prairie, WI 53590 (608) 834-1333 www.fairway.com

Listen to your clients. Give them options. Let them make decisions. Ensure those decisions lead to results.

At Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation, customer service is a way of life. We are dedicated to finding great rates and loan options for our customers while offering some of the fastest turn times in the industry. Our goal is to act as a trusted advisor, providing highly personalized service and helping clients through every step of the loan process. It’s all designed to exceed expectations, provide satisfaction, and earn trust.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Our team has worked very hard to ensure that our clients were safe and comfortable as we provided services through the ongoing pandemic.

What is your secret to good customer service?

We support many local charities and non-profits with monetary and handson help. In the past we have supported Second Harvest Foodbank, Middleton Outreach Ministry, and the Good Neighbor Festival, as well as national organizations like NAMI and the American Cancer Society.

How do you build trust with clients?

With our maintenance program, we provide consistent and regular updates to each family or individual. When those updates show their value and are delivered with care and consistency, trust follows.

What makes you popular?

A high level of expertise provided uniquely and with passion. Our motto is, “Your Life, Your Legacy, Your Way.”

What makes your business popular with families?

We treat our clients like they are part of our own family. Our business often leads to multi-generational planning. This exhibits not only solutions like tax avoidance and asset protection, but also the legacy that families may pass to their heirs.

FAVORITES

Mays Law Office, LLC Nennig Law Offices, LLC

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Our culture. We strongly believe the way we do things is as important as what we do. Each team member is guided by our 10 Core Values, they define how we work, how we interact with each other and guide us in providing the best possible service to our customers. Humility is core value #1, and is emphasized by our CEO, and entire leadership team. Fairway employees know the importance of service to the community, and giving back, volunteerism is supported with two paid days off per year, and encouraged. We strive to make our team members and customers feel a part of the Fairway family while providing exceptional customer service, speed to respond to customer needs, and support by being kind, humble and giving 100% every day - it’s WHAT we do and it’s WHO we are. As our CEO and founder, Steve Jacobson has said, “It’s not about the loans we do; it is about the hearts we change and the people we help.”

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

We are employee-owned, and proud of this designation. In 2015, Fairway implemented the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). At that time, Fairway owners sold some of their stock back to the company. Fairway then awarded it to eligible employees via the ESOP. Our employees love being part of this program. And, we volunteer. Commitment to service is a core value that we live by. Each year, Fairway employees are offered 16 charity volunteer hours that can be used during the work week. In 2020, Fairway employees used over 12,099 hours to volunteer at charitable organizations across the nation. Teammates are encouraged to make volunteering and community service

Wisconsin State Journal

a regular part of our routines, whether through our non-profit foundations Fairway Cares and American Warrior Initiative (AWI). Fairway Cares provides care packages to those suffering from a critical illness, have sustained physical trauma or lost a loved one. Packages are sent all over the nation, from our Madison corporate office. The American Warrior Initiative (AWI) was started by a Fairway employee to donate service dogs and provide grants to wounded veterans. In the Madison area, we partner with a local service dog provider to provide dogs and specialized training to needy veterans in our area. Third, we were named the Top Workplace in the U.S. among large employers in 2021, based entirely on employee feedback. What our employees think of Fairway is important to us, and we strive to maintain a culture of positivity.

What brings customers back to your business?

We have a strong referral network. Our employees have provided stellar customer service over the years, and their clients have referred others. We are growing one referral at a time!

What makes your business a good place to work?

“We are committed to the individual success of every employee,” says Chief Human Resources Officer Julie Fry. We want to support them in reaching their career goals and empowering them to be creative, make decisions and think outside the box.” At Fairway, our employees’ health and well-being are very important to us. In 2020, our CEO and leadership team made the decision to send employees home to work and provided each employee with one year of service a piece of exercise equipment, so they could be well while at home. From walking on treadmills to bicycling on a stationary bike, we found employees were appreciative of working from home, and very productive! This flexibility combined with top compensation are positives for Fairway employees.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

Our employees live and work in the Madison area and being able to be of service to our clients here, while overseeing a growing business, and giving back by volunteering locally – who could ask for anything more! We appreciate being quietly effective, helping so many in the community become first time homeowners, while gaining repeat business from prior customers. The Madison area is a wonderful place to live and work.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Customers can expect to be greeted warmly, our employees strive to make everyone who visits a Fairway office feel at home, part of our family. We will help them every step of the way through the loan process, as we listen to our customers, providing communication throughout. We hope they will refer their loved ones and friends, it has helped us grow for the past 25 years and we look forward to many more.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

It is a wonderful tribute to what we are building here in Madison, a testament to strong customer service and positive employee feedback. It means a lot to us!

What are you most proud of?

The fact that Fairway, which started out with a few employees in 1996 could grow to be a company with 10,500+ and over 700 locations nationwide, is a source of pride for us. More importantly, it is the thousands of families we have helped through the years – that is the biggest source of satisfaction, being of service to others.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Nonstop communication, feedback, setting expectations. Borrowers are nervous, we get that, we know we need to clearly spell out the process, provide them with the best loan options available to them, and ensure that they achieve their dream of home ownership. In the end, if they are happy, we have done our jobs well.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

With our charities – with Fairway Cares we give to those who are hurting, in pain, suffering or who have lost a loved one. We provide service dogs to veterans in need, with AWI. Our employees volunteer at local food banks, help build homes with Habitat For Humanity, and help other charities on their two paid volunteer days off. Giving back to our community is essential to us,

Wisconsin State Journal

to be an integral part of the Madison area. As mentioned previously, in 2020, Fairway employees used over 12,099 hours to volunteer at charitable organizations across the nation!

How do you build trust with customers?

One client at a time, one loan at a time – with each conversation, knowing the importance to our customers of their home loan, whether it is their first or second or beyond, we strive to provide strong customer service. That leads to a trusting relationship, one we can build on!

What makes you popular?

Fairway supports AWI events, our employees and their families love to see service dogs being awarded. Our corporate location in Madison was built with sustainability in mind, it is a popular destination for our employees all over the country and our realtor partners.

What makes your business popular with families?

We strive to involve family members in each transaction, we love visiting with the entire family, as they purchase their dream home!

FAVORITES

Summit Credit Union UW Credit Union

Best Pet Day Care/Grooming Camp K9 Pet Care Center

Number of Years in Business: 36 4934 Felland Road, Madison, WI 53718 (608) 249-3939 www.campk9madison.com Camp K9 Pet Resort & Day Camp is redefining pet care as the ultimate pet resort in the Madison, WI area. Let your dog run free in Madison’s largest play yards, or spoil them with a relaxing spa day with our caring and compassionate staff. The opportunities are endless for your furry friend!

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Camp K9 leads the industry in individualized care for each pet that comes through the doors. Our amazing staff work hard every day to make all of our 4 legged friends feel safe and loved at their home away from home.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? Camp K9 started in the basement of the house on site as just a hobby and grew to what it is today.

What brings customers back to your business?

Customers keep coming back because we develop life long relationships with our pet parents as well as making each experience at camp one to remember. We don’t think any dog or cat can ever be to spoiled!

What makes your business a good place to work?

We have a fantastic group of staff who always work together and wear a

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Dave Jones, Inc. is a leader in plumbing, heating and cooling, fire protection and electrical.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

We want to be your preferred service partner, and we will earn your trust with our upfront pricing, quality service, scheduling convenience, and an unbeatable experience with our top-notch team. Whether you’re looking for service for your home or business, the experts at Dave Jones, Inc. have the experience you’re looking for.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? Giving Back and Community are two of our Core Values, which we take seriously. In addition to significant donations to local charities, we created and host an annual golf outing for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation that has raised nearly 1 million dollars over it’s 4 years (including money raised in 2020)! We also partnered with a local distillery, Yahara Bay, to bring our own cinnamon whiskey, Dave’s Fave, to market and donate all proceeds to a different Wisconsin-based charity each year. This year, proceeds from Dave’s Fave will be donated to the American Family Children’s Hospital. Pick up your bottle of Dave’s Fave Cinnamon Flavored Whiskey at local liquor stores.

What brings customers back to your business? smile every single day. We love what we do and have the most fun doing it! All of our staff are committed to the high standard of care we deliver every day!

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

Madison is such a fun, energetic animal loving community, they love animals as much as we do, there are so many dog friendly events and places to take your furry friends!

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Every customer that walks through our doors is greeted with a smile and willingness to make accommodations so that our pet parents feel not only comfortable leaving their 4 legged family member with us but a little jealous that they can’t stay to enjoy all the fun too!

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

We’ve become a trusted service partner for our customers by offering plumbing, heating and cooling, fire protection, and electrical services for home and businesses. Our experience and focus on excellence is what makes us dependable, and our customer service team is what makes us convenient to come back to.

What makes your business a good place to work?

Dave Jones, Inc. is one of Dane County’s largest employers with over 480 employees, but we’ve found that our real strength is the team that we’ve carefully cultivated since we began in 1977. As a second-generation family business, we strive to create an organization that our team members are proud to be part of.

What do you love most about having your business in this community? We were founded in Mount Horeb and love that we are able to provide services to our friends, neighbors, and family.

We are so incredible thankful for each and every one of our customers who voted for us. It means so much that all of our hard work and love for animals shows.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

What are you most proud of?

We are very grateful to have been nominated and recognized. It shows our team that not just the company appreciates them, but the community as well.

I am most proud of the way our staff works together and that we keep the highest level of standards and care at the forefront of our minds when we come to work each day.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Our secret for the best customer service is exactly what is on our camp attire “we speak dog” we anticipate what our customers needs are and go above and beyond to make those happen!

How do you build trust with customers?

We have built trust over the many years we have been in business, we have the knowledge and experience to make sure that our pet parents feel comfortable leaving their family with us. We are always willing to answer any questions and spend quality time with each guest.

FAVORITES

The Dog Den Tabby & Jack’s Pet Supplies, Grooming and Doggie Daycare

Best Plumbing Company Dave Jones, Inc.

Number of Years in Business: Since 1977 2225 Kilgust Road, Madison, WI 53713 (608) 222-8490 www.davejonesinc.com 74

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

No need to walk through our doors, we come to you!

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

What are you most proud of? We are most proud of our team.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Our secret is how easy it is to schedule service. In addition to scheduling through our website, phone, or email, we have the ability for a customer to text us.

What makes your business popular with families? We view our customers as family.

FAVORITES

All Comfort Services H.J. Pertzborn Plumbing and Fire Protection Corporation.

Best Real Estate Company Charlie Wills Team - First Weber Number of Years in Business: 18 5609 Medical Circle, Suite 201 Madison, WI 53719 (608) 620-4004 www.charliewills.team Wisconsin State Journal

Charlie Wills Team is a group of the best real estate professionals in the Madison area and we specialize in guiding our clients through the home buying and selling process. We promise a smooth, helpful and great experience with our real estate team. It’s about the PEOPLE! Our clients become friends for life.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

People before Properties. Each of our team members is an expert in their field, offering a seamless transaction where our clients are taken care of every step of the way.

What brings customers back to your business?

We’re about relationships and making sure we tailor our services to each client.

What makes your business a good place to work?

Our team is a family--we share and celebrate all of life’s important moments!

What do you love most about having your business in this community? The people and the way this community supports each other.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Friendly faces and solutions to their needs! Also, our favorite local restaurant recommendations.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

We are honored to be chosen, we work hard to be a guide and resource for real estate in the Madison area and it’s so great to be recognized.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Staying focused on their wants and needs and making sure we listen. Buying or selling a home is a big life moment.

From plan design to final clean-up, Ganser Construction excels in the field of custom home building. With the big picture in mind, we plan out your home, detail by detail, and execute. We use our 44 years of experience to fine tune the building process and make it an easy and exciting experience!

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Our process is thorough and organized, and that sets us apart even before we break ground. We pride ourselves on incorporating our clients needs and wants into the home design and bidding process, so that there are minimal changes once our shovel hits the dirt.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

We employ our own framing, siding and trim crews. What does this mean to our clients? You will have experienced (many even lifelong) employees working on your custom home. We also feel it’s an asset that our project manager has in-field experience, allowing a better perspective for planning and preparing. These assets together allow us to be efficient and provide a quality product that is top notch.

What brings customers back to your business?

You won’t know it until closing time, but the process is what makes the experience great. An organized building schedule coupled with a personal selections’ concierge, makes every step enjoyable. We often hear, “Friends told me building a home would be overwhelming – but you made it simple and fun”!

What makes your business a good place to work?

Support important organizations like 100 Men of Dane County, UW Carbon Cancer Center, UW Children’s Hospital. As well as supporting local businesses.

It’s a team effort to build custom homes. Ganser Construction takes pride in taking care of our employees, just as much as our clients. Whether it be the tools and equipment we use on site, or the top-notch benefit package, we feel the desire to take care our employees, who in turn take care of our clients.

How do you build trust with clients?

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Providing the best service possible, time and time again. That’s why most of are repeat clients or referrals.

What makes your business popular with families?

“A house is made of bricks and beams. A home is made of hopes and dreams.” We help people achieve those hopes and dreams.

FAVORITES

Stark Company Realtors Restaino & Associates ERA Powered

To have clients that we built for continue to rave about the quality of their Ganser Construction home 5, 10, or 20 years later. We are proud of to share the work our family is passionate about with the families around our community.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Customers can expect to be welcomed into an exciting process as they enter our office showroom. We enjoy making sure our potential clients have answers to all their home building questions. We also incorporate home site tours into our initial consultations, so clients can see the difference in our work.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

Best Residential Builder Ganser Construction, Inc.

Number of Years in Business: 44 1900 Prairie Street, Prairie du Sac, WI 53578 (608) 643-4667 www.ganserconstructioninc.com Wisconsin State Journal

It is truly the highlight of our career to be nominated and voted for by our clients. It’s an honor to put your hard work and heart into building custom homes for families; and to be recognized for those efforts is beyond rewarding.

What are you most proud of?

Every client has a unique wish list for their future home. We enjoy listening and incorporating these ideas into the home they dreamed of. It’s a great feeling to see these personal touches weaved into the home design, for clients to enjoy for a lifetime.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

What is your secret to good customer service?

We get to know our clients and hold their hand through every step. We rely on our experience, extensive photo galleries, and product showroom to help clients choose materials that best meet their needs. We focus on making the process easy and organized, so clients can sit back and enjoy the progress of their new home!

FAVORITES

Michael F Simon Builders Inc Brio Design Homes

Best Roof/Gutter Company Waunakee Remodeling

Number of Years in Business: 44 1001 Frank H Street, Waunakee, WI 53597 960 Odana Road, Madison, WI 53719 (608) 849-5155 www.waunakeeremodeling.com See Bio on page 77 Services: Best Window Company

FAVORITES

Ganser Company Ridge Top Exteriors

Best Travel Agency Travel Smart Tours by Design LLC Number of Years in Business: 2

2018 Chamberlain Avenue, Madison, WI 53726 (608) 217-7465 www.travelsmartbydesign.com Tailor-made travel with unmatched destination expertise. We offer the best of the best: intimate experiences, personalized services, gourmet meals, and beautiful surroundings that together promise a maximum of pleasure and a minimum of stress. We are a part of a worldwide network of travel suppliers ensuring that our clients are treated like VIPs.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

Our travel design services are tailored for the individual traveler. Each component is handpicked to create the ultimate travel experience.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? We do not charge fees for our design services.

What brings customers back to your business?

Our customers are loyal and return because we offer exceptional customer service from the beginning of the trip to the end.

What makes your business a good place to work? We are a family-owned business.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

After basically being shut down because of the pandemic, it’s been just wonderful to be voted People’s Choice. We have been so excited to be planning travel again and this award is so appreciated.

What are you most proud of?

Being able to build our brand as a family business.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Accurate and efficient communication. Answering inquiries in full detail and in a timely manner, and following through with a client’s travels are key to excellent customer service.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Over the years we have volunteered with local charities, providing our professional services and donations of goods and services.

How do you build trust with clients, patients, or customers?

With professional and efficient communication and results. When a client gets to enjoy their travels with no worries, they are more likely to recommend us to their friends and family.

What makes your business popular with families?

Family travel is one of our specialties. We are able to custom design experiences for all age-groups and activity levels.

FAVORITES

Burkhalter Travel & Cruise Shoppe Middleton Travel

Best Veterinarian Clinic Sauk Point Veterinary Clinic

Number of Years in Business: 12 725 N High Point Rd, Madison, WI 53717 (608) 829-0055 www.saukpointvet.com What makes you stand out from the competition?

We are a locally owned, community-focused veterinary clinic. Besides general health care, we offer urgent care, specialty surgeries, dental care, acupuncture, cold laser, and holistic care. In addition, we have specialists who can perform further diagnostics such as ultrasounds, echocardiograms, and neurology consultations.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? Besides cats and dogs, we also treat “special species”, including rabbits, mammals, and reptiles!

What brings customers back to your business?

Our team of dedicated Veterinarians and support staff and the superb care we provide.

What makes your business a good place to work?

We have a team approach and all work together to help pets live their best lives.

What do you love most about having your business in this community? The fact that we are (and always will be) locally owned, and not a corporaterun veterinary clinic.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors? A smiling face to greet you (and your pets!).

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

The Madison community is rich with people who love to explore the world. We are glad to be able to help them with their travel needs.

We feel very honored that we were awarded GOLD for the Best of Madison, along with this People’s Choice Award. It makes our hard work and efforts worth it!!

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

What are you most proud of?

Compassion, understanding, and knowing they are going to be well taken care of from the designing of their trip until they return home.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Our focus is on the client’s concerns and the pet’s health.

Wisconsin State Journal

What is your secret to good customer service? ALWAYS strive to exceed customers expectations!

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We are involved with Czars Promise, Puppy Up, and many local rescues in South Central WI. We also foster adoptable cats for Angel’s Wish at our clinic.

How do you build trust with customers?

Quality care, experienced Veterinarians and support staff.

What makes your business popular with families?

Lots of families have pets, and are motto is “We are your Pet’s OTHER best friend!”

FAVORITES

Oregon Veterinary Clinic Fitchburg Veterinary Hospital

Best Wealth Management Summit Credit Union

Number of Years in Business: 86 1709 Landmark Drive, Cottage Grove, WI 53527 (800) 236-5560 www.summitcreditunion.com See Bio on pages 66-67 Retail: Best Credit Union

FAVORITES

First Business Bank Thrivent Financial

Best Window Company Waunakee Remodeling

Number of Years in Business: 44 1001 Frank H Street, Waunakee, WI 53597 960 Odana Road, Madison, WI 53719 (608) 849-5155 www.waunakeeremodeling.com Our company specializes in window replacement in the Madison, Wisconsin area. Our expertise comes from 40+ years of experience, and you can be certain that Waunakee Remodeling will take care of your home in the best possible way. Our specialized teams are certified installers and we carry the most desired window replacement brand in the industry – Renewal by Andersen®.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

We offer a unique window line from Andersen Windows. Our windows are made with composite material called Fibrex. As a long-established remodeler, our crews are seasoned in all aspects of window and door installation and our team members are certified installers through Renewal by Andersen.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

We started as a siding business before expanding into all aspects of home remodeling.

What brings customers back to your business?

Standing behind our work and leading with innovative home performance products.

What makes your business a good place to work?

A team atmosphere with great benefits that not many in the industry can offer.

What do you love most about having your business in this community? People in Madison really care for their homes and we’re fortunate to be part of helping so many people with home improvement projects.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

A hello, a cup of coffee, and lots of design ideas and inspiration for interior and exterior remodeling projects.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

It means a lot to our team and is a direct reflection on the huge effort they put in everyday. It’s a sign of appreciation from the community we serve.

What are you most proud of?

Being in a business where we can drive on almost any street in Madison and point at a house we’ve worked on.

What is your secret to good customer service?

Honest communication with transparent expectations.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

Owens Corning Roof Deployment Project, Project Home, supporting many events and concerts around town.

How do you build trust with customers?

Doing what we say we’re going to do and making sure it’s done right.

FAVORITES

Pella Windows & Doors of Madison Ganser Company

sports & entertainment Best Bowling Center Ten Pin Alley

6285 Nesbitt Rd, Fitchburg, WI 53719 (608) 845-1010 www.tenpinalleys.com

FAVORITES

Dream Lanes Schwoegler Park Towne Lanes

Best Dance Studio Synergy Dance Academy

Number of Years in Business: 9 started in 2012 549 Zor Shrine Place, Madison, WI 53719 (608) 212-1311 www.synergydancemadison.com We offer classes for ages 3-adult in ballet, pointe, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, lyrical, tap, acro, aerial, modern, musical theater and lyra.

What makes you stand out from the competition? Our incredible staff provide quality, supportive and enthusiastic instruction

Wisconsin State Journal

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

to children of all abilities and our experienced, organized staff provide an upbeat, friendly and energetic atmosphere for families and our dancers in and out of the classroom. The camaraderie amongst the staff and instructors is evident the minute you step into our studio. We are united in our goal to provide nothing but positivity for all who enter our doors.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business? We will be celebrating our 10th Anniversary in 2022!

What brings customers back to your business? Our positivity and friendliness.

What makes your business a good place to work? Open communication between all staff and instructors. Our instructors are treated with respect and understand that they know what is best for their students and are their best advocates. Our staff fully supports their decision making.

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

Proud host site of PGA Tour Champions American Family Insurance Championship.

What brings customers back to your business?

University of Wisconsin Golf Experience.

What makes your business a good place to work?

Excellent Atmosphere with many students employed.

What do you love most about having your business in this community?

The kindness and support from our families, especially during the last year and 1/2, their understanding while we navigated the Covid storm, was overwhelmingly positive. The loyalty they have for us is inspiring.

Providing a great UW golf experience.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

Smiles! A “I’m so glad you’re here!” From everyone they encounter from the front desk to the classroom. They will see happy instructors who want to be there and staff that goes above and beyond to make it easy for parents to have a dancer at Synergy Dance Academy.

Red & White with lots of Ws. Honored.

What are you most proud of?

Providing excellent golf experiences.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

What is your secret to good customer service?

It validates the hard work our dedicated and talented teachers and staff have put in to provide quality dance instruction in a positive and upbeat atmosphere. We are completely thrilled and thank Madison.com for this honor.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

What are you most proud of?

Hiring individuals who are willing to work hard.

Our golf events generate millions of dollars to local charitable organizations on an annual basis.

The growth our dancers show from year to year but especially this past year with our new, certified and positive instructors. They have all worked extremely hard to creatively instruct our dancers in ways they never had to before.

How do you build trust with customers?

What is your secret to good customer service?

UW golf course.

Positivity. Allowing parents to ask questions without the fear of rejection or negativity. Parents are their children’s best advocate, we know this and keep it in the forefront in all we do.

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community? Our dance team raises money to support our students on scholarship.

How do you build trust with customers? By being honest and upfront about our expectations, costs and scheduling. We are an open book.

What makes your business popular with families?

Our variety of class options and the loving, supportive instruction their children receive from our incredible instructors.

FAVORITES

Studio Dansu Kanopy Dance Inc

Best Golf Course University Ridge Golf Course

What makes you popular? What makes your business popular with families? Public golf course that invites anyone/everyone to play and enjoy.

FAVORITES

Door Creek Golf Course Pleasant View Golf Course

Best Movie Theater Marcus Palace Cinema

2830 Hoepker Rd, Sun Prairie, WI 53590 (608) 825-9004 www.marcustheatres.com

FAVORITES

Marcus Point Cinema Flix Brewhouse Madison

Number of Years in Business: 30

Best Performing Arts Venue

9002 County Road PD, Madison, WI 53593 (608) 845-7700

Number of Years in Business: 17

www.universityridge.com 18 Hole Golf Course

What makes you stand out from the competition? University of Wisconsin Golf Course.

Provide excellent experiences.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Overture Center for the Arts

201 State Street, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 258-4177 www.overture.org Overture Center features seven state-of-the-art performance spaces and five galleries where Broadway tours, national and international touring artists,

Wisconsin State Journal

10 resident companies and hundreds of local artists engage people in nearly 700,000 educational and artistic experiences each year.

What makes you stand out from the competition?

What are some of the things you do to give back to the community?

We provide nearly 300,000 artistic experiences each year through our free and low-cost education and engagement programs.

Our variety of extraordinary performances and programs along with our location on State Street near the Capitol and University of Wisconsin-Madison, as well as, our beautiful building designed by internationally acclaimed architect Cesar Pelli.

How do you build trust with customers?

What’s something your customers may not know about your business?

We present Broadway tours and a variety of national and international touring artists year after year.

We have 12+ venues for performances, corporate meetings, conventions, trade shows, weddings, banquets and receptions.

What brings customers back to your business? Extraordinary experiences!

What makes your business a good place to work?

We build trust through clear communication and friendly, knowledgeable customer service, as well as, by providing great artistic experiences.

What makes you popular?

What makes your business popular with families?

We offer programs for all ages, including Kids in the Rotunda, the Lullaby Project, Onstage Student Field Trips, the Jerry Awards and Jerry Ensemble, International Festival and more.

A positive, supportive, growth-minded culture with talented and creative employees and a stunning venue in the heart of downtown Madison.

FAVORITES

American Players Theatre Barrymore Theatre

What do you love most about having your business in this community? We love the opportunity to support and elevate our community’s creative culture, economy and quality of life through the arts.

What can customers expect when they walk through your doors?

Quality programming, exceptional service and a clean, beautiful state-of-theart building.

What does it mean to be voted Madison.com’s People’s Choice?

We are grateful to our donors, subscribers, employees, volunteers, artists and fans who continue to support our organization and mission.

Best Place for Family Fun Henry Vilas Zoo

702 S Randall Ave, Madison, WI 53715 (608) 266-4732 www.henryvilaszoo.gov

What are you most proud of?

Our ability to give access to hundreds of thousands of people through free and low-cost education and engagement programming.

FAVORITES

Vitense Golfland Geeks Mania Arcade

What is your secret to good customer service?

We care about our patrons and want them to have an extraordinary experience every time they visit Overture.

Thank You For Voting Us

MADISON’S BEST DANCE STUDIO!

We are humbled and honored and are excited to start our 10th year in business with enthusiastic, certified and trained instructors who bring their love of dance and children to each of their classes. Register now for our Fall Session starting September 6th. 549 Zor Shrine Place 608.203.8539 www.synergydancemadison.com Wisconsin State Journal

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

CONGRATULATIONS to the 2021 People’s Choice Winners

APPAREL

happily ever after children’s resale boutique

BEAUTY & WELLNESS

Vera’s House of Bridal

FOOD & DRINK AUTOMOTIVE

TOBY’S SUPPER CLUB

HEALTH & MEDICAL

BLUE PLATE CATERING greenbush bakery SALVATORE’S TOMATO PIES

ha long bay vietnamese & thai bistro

KEN’S MEATS & DELI

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

Wisconsin State Journal

CONGRATULATIONS to the 2021 People’s Choice Winners

SERVICES

LOCAL

madison children’s museum

THE EDGEWATER HOTEL

RETAIL

orange tree imports

SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT PEOPLE David Meicher

meicher cpas Lester Pines

PINES BACH LLP Spencer Johnson

SPENCER HAIR DESIGN Cameron Taylor Lazy oaf lounge Corey Reilly

ZIMBRICK ACURA of middleton

Wisconsin State Journal

Chef Dave Heide

liliana’s Tim Turno

madison chiropractic Dr. David Gundersen

FIRST CHOICE DENTAL Julie Lederman

uw health EAST Patricia Bellissimo

SSM health DEAN

Melissa Hoefling

KNEADED RELIEF DAY SPA Ruth Saavard

madison fire DEPT. Renee Olson

ESCAPADE SALON Meg Cano-Schuman

Jennifer Andersen

ANGELIC ANGLES Lanette Hansen

mAGIC 98

Matt Deadman

MATT DEADMAN HOMES Holly Drifke

STATE FARM INSURANCE

STEVE’S TATTOO & BODY SHOP

David Mahoney

Charlie Shortino

DANE CO SHERIFF

WMTV NBC15

marcus palace cinema

TEN PIN ALLEY

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS GUIDE • AUGUST 29, 2021

The People’s Choice in EVERY Automotive Category · · · · · ·

Best Best Best Best Best Best

Auto Body Shop Auto Glass Repair car Dealership – New Car Dealership – Used Oil Change Tire Store

Make your first stop Zimbrick.com

Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vans

Thank you for voting for us!

BEST Hearing Aid Center

Keep the laughter going … At Beltone, you get more than just hearing aids, you get a hearing partner with you every step of the way. Our hearing care professionals take the time to get to know you to ensure we create personalized care tailored to you, every time

MADISON 5513 Odana Road (608) 256-6440

MADISON EAST WEST BARABOO 4868 High Crossing Blvd. 433 Linn Street (Hwy 33) (608) 240-2202 (608) 356-7792

Voted

Best Bank Thank you Dane County.

YOUR NEIGHBOR’S CHOICE FOR EXTRAORDINARY BANKING Member FDIC

mononabank.com

5515 Monona Drive, Monona, WI 53716

•

(608) 223-3000

Madison.com's People's Choice Winner's Guide 2021

Articles inside

HEALTH & MEDICAL.............. 33

AUTOMOTIVE................................10