Best of the Best 2016

The Watauga Democrat Presents

Best of the Best

2016 [ Sponsored by ]

Highlands Union Bank

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Best of the Best

Page 2

April 17, 2016

PHOTO BY GARRETT PRICE

The 2016 Best of the Best’s largest crowd to date packs Boone United Methodist Church’s gym for the award ceremony.

BEST of the BEST A

Watauga County customers give their top referrals

s the saying goes, the highest compliment a business can ever hope to receive is a referral from a customer.

Once again, the readers of the Watauga Democrat have spoken, giving their referrals in more than 100 categories as part of the sixth annual Best of the Best Awards.

On April 7, more than 200 representatives from the best businesses in Boone were on hand to accept awards at the

On the cover:

sold-out Best of the Best gala held at Boone United Methodist Church.

The red-carpet event welcomed guests from the largest number of businesses and organizations to date and was sponsored by W.J. Office, Peabody’s Beer and Wine, Highlands Union Bank and longtime sponsor SkyLine/SkyBest.

“We started this event in 2011 and … it really belongs to the community now,” said Charlie Price, marketing director

with Mountain Times Publications. “This event gives businesses the opportunity to be recognized by their customers, and that is the best kind of acknowledgement possible.”

Attendees were treated to music by The Todd Wright Trio and dinner by McKethan Brothers Barbecue of Boone.

Neville Chaney, founder and president of W.J. Office, addressed the crowd as the night’s keynote speaker.

“Attitude and vision drive results,” Chaney said, encouraging local business owners to “keep a long-term outlook and enjoy the process of giving your best effort and being the best that you can be.”

There is something special about looking in the mirror, he said, and knowing the person in it is giving his or her best.

So here’s looking at you, Watauga County’s Best of the Best. Congratulations!

From top left: Come Back Shack, represented by Brandon Lewis, Neighborhood Yoga’s Valerie Midgett, WJ Office’s Neville Chaney, Antiques on Howard’s Linda Wagner, cosmetologist Pam Johnson, attorney Joshua Teague, Nurse Practicioner Tiffany Shreve and Glen Winebarger of Winebarger Motors.

PHOTOS BY DAWN SHUMATE

Best of the Best

April 17, 2016

2015

2016

Page 3

Congratulations to this year’s winners

2015

WJ Office is happy to have sponsored the Watauga Democrat’s 2016 Best of the Best Awards and Awards Dinner.

To receive the support from your customers recognizing you as the very best in your business is a most coveted award and an honor to strive for every day.

THANK YOU for selecting

as the Best of the Best

OFFICE OUTFITTER Serving the High Country for 40 Years!

OFFICE FURNITURE OFFICE SUPPLIES FROM AMERICA’S LEADING COMPANIES

JANITORIAL AND SANITATION SUPPLIES DIGITAL IMAGING

COFFEE SUPPLIES REPAIRS AND SERVICE

118 BIG VALLEY ST, BOONE, NC 28607 | (828) 264-3283 | WJOFFICE.COM

2016

Best of the Best

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April 17, 2016

BEST of the BEST BARBECUE RESTAURANT

The High Country’s premier choice for outstanding landscaping and maintenance services.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Clean Cut Landscaping & Lawn is a full service company located in Boone, NC offering services to Blowing Rock, Banner Elk & all of the surrounding High Country areas.

Providing landscape design, installation and year round maintenance allows us to accommodate any request. Offering an array of services to both commercial and residential properties, sets us apart from the competition.

With service being our foundation, we aim to exceed all expectations.

Thank you for voting us Best Landscaping Company

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Woodlands Barbecue & Pickin’ Parlor McKethan Brothers Pedalin’ Pig

BREWERY Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Appalachian Mountain Brewery Blowing Rock Ale House Booneshine Brewing Company

BREAKFAST RESTAURANT Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Sunrise Grill Troy’s Diner Melanie’s

BURRITO Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Black Cat Burrito Coyote Kitchen Dos Amigos

CHINESE RESTAURANT Winner Runner-Up 2016

828-964-9267 www.cleancutboone.com info@cleancutboone.com

Taste Grill New China Buffet

COFFEE SHOP Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Higher Grounds Coffee Shoppe Espresso News Stick Boy SEE AWARDS, PAGE 5

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Come Back Shack, represented by Brandon Lewis, was a triple threat this year, winning Best Fast Food Restaurant, Best French Fries and Best Burger.

Thank you to the community for voting us best of the best.

2016 Dr. Michael Mayhew

Dr. Nicole Scheffler

Orthodontist & Pediatric Dentist

Orthodontist

373 Boone Heights Drive | Boone, NC 28607 828.264.0110 | www.opsmiles.com

Best of the Best

April 17, 2016

Page 5

Save time and money with the right tools for any job.

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

HOMEOWNERS OR CONTRACTORS | RENTAL OR RETAIL | PROFESSIONAL CONTRACTOR SUPPLY HEADQUARTERS

2016

SkyLine SkyBest, represented by Paige Phillips, Jamey Jenkins, Robin Miller, Charity Shatley, David Walls and Kristen Costner, won the award for Best Telephone Company.

AWARDS FROM PAGE 4

DELI/SUB Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Our Daily Bread Which Wich Jimmy John’s

FAST FOOD RESTAURANT Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Come Back Shack Chick-fil-A Wendy’s

FINE DINING Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Joy Bistro The Gamekeeper The Peddler

FRENCH FRIES Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Come Back Shack Five Guys Chick-fil-A

HAMBURGER Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Come Back Shack Five Guys Wendy’s

HOME COOKING RESTAURANT Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Dan’l Boone Inn Cracker Barrel Sunrise Grill

JAPANESE RESTAURANT Winner

Makoto’s Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar Hokkaido Cobo

Runner-Up Runner-Up

MEXICAN RESTAURANT Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Dos Amigos Puerto Nuevo Taqueria El Paso

PIZZA RESTAURANT Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Mellow Mushroom Capone’s Bellas

RESTAURANT SERVICE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Café Portofino Troy’s Diner Foggy Rock

SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Mike’s Inland Seafood Cobo Vidalia

SPORTS BAR Winner

The Rock Sports Bar and Grill River Street Ale House Town Tavern (Blowing Rock)

Runner-Up Runner-Up

STEAK HOUSE Winner

HOT DOG Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Trolly Stop Hill Top Come Back Shack

Runner-Up Runner-Up

ICE CREAM/YOGURT RESTAURANT

Winner

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Runner-Up Runner-Up

Sweet Frog Menchie’s Kilwins

ITALIAN RESTAURANT Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Casa Rustica Bella’s Café Portofino

Come see why Watauga County voted us the Best of the Best!

Farmers Rentals and Power has everything you need to make your property the envy of all your neighbors.

Lawn and garden tools, a huge selection of outdoor power equipment, grass seed and fertilizer, equipment rentals as well as parts and repair.

The Peddler Steak House Outback Gamekeeper

SUSHI RESTAURANT CoBo Sushi Bistro and Bar Makoto’s Taste Grill

VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Coyote Kitchen Kindly Kitchen Hob Nob Farm SEE AWARDS, PAGE 8

Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar

2124 Blowing Rock Road, Boone 828 264 7976

Best of the Best

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2015

April 17, 2016

2016

Thanks to all of our customers for voting us Best of the Best Auto Repair Shop.

828-265-4742 | 124 Realty Row | Boone, NC Monday-Friday 8am-5pm

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

The awards for Best Fireplace Shop and Best Fuel Oil Dealer both went to Appalachian Energy, represented by Paul Stout.

Thank you to all of our loyal clients for voting us

BEST OF THE BEST FARM SUPPLY

Best Nail Salon 6 Years in a Row!

r us fo d e e s an e Com rdening ! ds ga your ning nee can

We appreciate your business and for supporting us since 1977.

2016

Manicures • Pedicures • Acrylic • Spa Manicures • Kids Menu • Waxing

Natural Nails Spa 155 W. Slabtown Rd. • Zionville, NC 28698 • 828.297.4488 Located at the intersection of Hwy 421

828-265-1515 • WWW.NATURALNAILSBOONE.COM

Best of the Best

April 17, 2016

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2016

thank you for voting us

best pet store and allowing us to take care of your pet’s needs - The Pet Place Team

JOIN US ON APRIL 16TH Tina Townsend and Meghan Keith of The Pet Place accept the award for Best Pet Store.

DR. MAST - ROUTINE SHOTS AND WELLNESS VISITS S.N.I.P.S - WITH WATAUGA HUMANE SOCIETY

JOIN US ON APRIL 30TH SIDE WALK SALE - GREAT DEALS AVAILABLE ALL DAY CHECK FACEBOOK OR CALL FOR MORE INFO

2016

SHOPS AT SHADOWLINE

PHOTOS BY DAWN SHUMATE

Boone, NC • 828 268 1510 Petplaceboone.com

Jessica Smith and Heidi McKinney of Courtyard Marriott accept the award for Best Hotel.

FOLLOW US ON

THANK YOU to the Citizens of Watauga County and the Readership of the Watauga Democrat for voting the

2016

Best Retirement Community

Cornett Deal Christmas Tree Farm the Best of the Best for 2016.

Thank you for your voting me

Best of the Best Insurance Agent

We would like to

Thank All of Our Family and Friends

I look forward to continue serving Watauga County.

for allowing us to serve the High Country since 1989.

We look forward to another year with your continued support.

Come by for a tour to see what our community has to offer.

2016

2016

Also a big thank you to my family and the workers who help make our choose & cut Christmas tree business successful.

A Great Place to Live!

Diane Cornett Deal and Family

163 Shadowline Drive | Boone, NC | 828-264-1006 | 800-333-3432

www.cdtreefarm.com

Andy Harkins Agent

(828) 265-2639 (800) 961-2639 harkina@nationwide.com

Best of the Best

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April 17, 2016

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

The award for Best New Car Dealer went to Ross Chrysler Jeep Dodge, represented from left, Mike Hall, Steve Silver and Thom Jackson.

AWARDS FROM PAGE 5

2016

WE WANTED TO THANK EACH AND EVERYONE THAT VOTED FOR US, TO OUR GUESTS, TO ALL OF YOU WORKING WITH US THAT MADE IT POSSIBLE!

ANTIQUE SHOP Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Hampton’s Body shop Johnny’s Boone Ford

BOOKSTORE

Lowe’s Home Improvement Sears Ferguson Enterprises

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff Art Mart Michaels

Winner Runner-Up

ART SHOP Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Taylor House Inn Inn at Ragged Gardens Mast Farm Inn

BODY SHOP Antiques on Howard Welcome Home Thriftique Appalachian Antique Mall

APPLIANCE STORE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

BED AND BREAKFAST Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Black Bear Books Cornerstone Ram’s Rack

BICYCLE STORE Boone Bike and Touring Magic Cycles

CABLE COMPANY AUTO PARTS Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Charlie’s NAPA Auto Parts Advance Auto Autozone

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Charter SkyLine SkyBest Direct TV

CAR DEALER (NEW) AUTO REPAIR Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Alray Tire and Auto AJ’s Clark Tire

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Ross Chrysler Jeep Dodge Modern Toyota Subaru Friendship Honda

CAR DEALER (USED) BAKERY Winner Runner-Up

Stick Boy Bread Company Indulge Bakery

Winner Runner-Up

Winebarger Motors, Inc RC Motors

CARPET CLEANER BANK N ESTLED IN H ISTORIC V ALLE C RUCIS 4584 H WY 194 S • B ANNER E LK , NC • 828-963-5581 WWW . TAYLORHOUSEINN . COM

Winner Runner-Up

Highlands Union Bank Yadkin Bank

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up SEE AWARDS, PAGE 10

Dove Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Dolbier Floorcare and Restoration Mike’s Carpet

Best of the Best

April 17, 2016

Page 9

Thank you to our friends, family, and clients for supporting us for over 26 years.

Your friendship and trust means the world to us!

Did Someone Say Party?

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Boone Drug’s John Stacey, Jessica Collins and Dale Presnell accept the award for Best Drug Store.

THANK YOU BOONE for choosing Mellow Mushroom as your

Favorite Pizza

2016

2015

for four years running!

2016

Thank you to our loyal customers for voting us

Best Used Car Dealer!

805 W. King St. | Boone, NC | 828-865-1515 | www.mellowmushroom.com

685 W King St • Boone, NC 828.264.7307 www.didsomeonesayparty.com

1472 OLD BRISTOL ROAD BOONE, NC 28607 828-297-3711 WINEBARGERMOTORSINC.COM

Thanks for “picking” us as your music store!

guitars | banjos | ukes | violins print music | accessories repairs | lessons

come see us!

LOOK FOR US IN JUNE AT OUR NEW LOCATION: 1542-C Hwy 421 S. (in the Gateway Center)

Boone, NC 28607 Mon-Fri: 10-6 Sat: 10-4 828-264-4765

www.KudzuMusic.net

Best of the Best

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2016

THANKS

AWARDS FROM PAGE 8

for Voting us Best

Chiropractic Center

April 17, 2016 DANCE STUDIO Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Studio K Northwestern Dance Studio High Country Dance Studio

DEPT. STORE CARPET STORE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Abbey Carpet Midway Carpet Lowe’s Home Improvement

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

TJ Maxx Belk Mast General Store

DRUG STORE CATERER Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

CR Catering McKethan Brothers Gadabouts

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Boone Drug Rite Aid Walgreens

DRY CLEANER CELL PHONE SERVICE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Verizon Carolina West AT&T

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Mountaineer Cleaners A Cleaner World Invershield Cleaners

EXERCISE GYM CHILDREN’S STORE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Bluebird Exchange Carter’s Wee Cycle

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Paul H. Broyhill Wellness Center Anytime Fitness Boone Docks MMA

EYEWEAR STORE COMPUTER REPAIR

Fidler Chiropractic

2301 NC-105 • Boone, NC 28607

828.264.1561

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Nordic PC Dougnet Geeks at Work

Blue Ridge Vision Western Carolina Eye Associates Graystone Eye

FARM SUPPLY STORE COMPUTER STORE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Staples Nordic PC Geeks at Work

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

David Miller’s Farm Supply Boone Stockyard Lowe’s Home Improvement

FENCING COMPANY

” u o Y k “Than for voting us

2016

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Best of the e u c e b r a B Best y t n u o C a g u a t in Wa

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

VPC Builders, LLC Millers Lowe’s Home Improvement

FIREPLACE SHOP Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Appalachian Energy Wallace Propane Mountain Home and Hearth

FLOORING STORE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Town Home Abbey Carpet Lowe’s Home Improvement

FLORIST Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Bouquet Florist Log House Florist Climbing the Walls

FUEL OIL DEALER Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Appalachian Energy Freeman Gas Blue Ridge Energies

FURNITURE STORE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Appalachian Furniture Tatum Galleries Blowing Rock Furniture

GENERAL STORE

The Woodlands Barbecue & Pickin’ Parlor Highway 321 Bypass, Blowing Rock • www.woodlandsbbq.com • 828.295.3651

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Mast General Store Goober Peas Fred’s Mercantile SEE AWARDS, PAGE 12

Best of the Best

April 17, 2016

Page 11

Thank you for voting us

Best Antique Store in Watauga County!

Please stop by and browse our collection of antiques, collectibles, jewelry, and more!

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Capehart and Washburn, represented by Phil Washburn, Jeremy Bertrand, Pamela Thomas and Matt Long, won the award for Best Home Builder.

We would like to thank you for helping us win Watauga County’s

Best Assisted Living Center of 2016.

Thank you for voting Josh Teague as the Best of the Best Attorney!

2015

199 Howard St • 828-262-1957 • Open 7 Days a Week

2016

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

BEST SUB/DELI

2016

IN WATAUGA COUNTY! 2 016

287 Bamboo Road Boone, NC 828.264.0336

Joshua J. Teague, Attorney at Law, P.A. 827 W. King Street Boone, NC 28607 828-262-9897

We appreciate your support and for giving us the opportunity to serve you since 1984.

MON - SAT 11 AM - 9 PM • SUNDAY 12PM - 6PM 627 WEST KING STREET, BOONE, NC • 828-264-0173

Best of the Best

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April 17, 2016

AWARDS FROM PAGE 10

GIFT SHOP Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Rivercross Mast General Store High Country Jewelry and Gifts

GLASS REPLACEMENT Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Appalachian Auto Glass Action Auto Glass Miller Industries

GOLF COURSE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Boone Golf Course Sugar MountainGolf Course Hound Ears

HARDWARE STORE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Lowe’s Home Improvement Watauga Building Supply New River Building Supply

HEATING & AC COMPANY Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Mountaineer Heating and Cooling Edmisten Heating and Cooling Boone Heating and Air

HOME DÉCOR STORE PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Judah Goheen, Tiffany Leonard and Jan Winkler of the Winkler Organization accept the award for Best Student Housing.

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Tatum Galleries Shannon’s Curtain Bed and Bath Welcome Home Thriftique

HOME SECURITY COMPANY Winner Runner-Up

Creekside Electronics TME Enterprise

HOTEL

TOTAL CAR CARE ADVANTAGE ™

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

INTERNET PROVIDER Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

828.262.3555

828.278.3007

167 JEFFERSON ROAD • PERRY CONKLIN, MANAGER

At Clark Tire, we are MORE than just tires! We offer the TOTAL CAR CARE ADVANTAGE™!!

Thank You for Voting Us

Edward Jones – Matt Mosher Edward Jones – John Ritter

JEWELRY STORE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Old World Galleries High Country Jewelry & Gifts The Stone Jewelers

LANDSCAPE COMPANY Clean Cut Landscaping Estate Management Ground Effects

LUMBER STORE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

LOWEST TIRE PRICES GUARANTEED!!

LOWES

WWW.CLARKTIRE.COM

Winner Runner-Up

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

BEST Tire Store

Insta

Charter SkyLine SkyBest AT&T

INVESTMENT CO.

2016 1563 BLOWING ROCK ROAD • ERIC BURNS, MANAGER

Courtyard Marriott La Quinta Holiday Inn

SINCE 1943

New River Building Supply Mountain Lumber Lowe’s Home Improvement

SEE AWARDS, PAGE 14

April 17, 2016

Best of the Best

Page 13

HELPING PEOPLE LOVE WHERE THEY LIVE Hardware Store Appliance Store

2016

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Darrell and Ellen Watson of Watsonatta Western Store accept the award for Best Shoe/Boot Store.

(828) 262-0773 • 1855 Blowing Rock Rd.

Thank You!

We Sincerely Appreciate Your Business!

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Dove Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning, represented by Jim and Ellen Schaller, won the award for Best Carpet Cleaner.

Carrying on our Daddy’s tradition for over 52 years.

2016

BEST AUTO BODY REPAIR

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

The Watauga County Project on Aging, represented by Angie Boitnotte, won the award for Best County Agency.

Page 14

Best of the Best

April 17, 2016

AWARDS FROM PAGE 12

MATTRESS STORE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Blackberry Creek Mattress Appalachian Furniture Mattress Firm

MEN’S CLOTHIER Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Belk Mast General Store Recess

MOTORCYCLE SHOP Winner Runner-Up

Action Cycle Fletcher’s Cycle

MUSIC STORE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Kudzu Music Appalachian Music Shoppe Fat Cats

NAIL SALON PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

It’s all about family for Walter, Kaylee, Zack and Pam Johnson of Hampton Funeral, which one the award for Best Funeral Home.

Pam also won Best Cosmetologist.

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Natural Nails Spa City Nails Mi Nail Salon

NATURAL FOOD STORE Winner Runner-Up

Bare Essentials Natural Market Earth Fare

NIGHT SPOT Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Café Portofino Boone Saloon River Street Ale House

OFFICE OUTFITTERS Winner Runner-Up

WJ Office Staples

OIL CHANGE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Oil Exchange Alray Clark Tire

PEST CONTROL COMPANY Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

A-1 Termite & Pest Control Terminix Quality Pest Control

PET STORE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

The Pet Place Mountain Dog Pet Supplies Plus

PHOTOGRAPHY Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Tommy White Timeless Treasures Dream Catchers

POWER EQUIPMENT SHOP Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Farmers Rentals & Power Equipment Boone Rent All Sears

PRINTING SHOP Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Precision Printing Creative Printing SOS SEE AWARDS, PAGE 17

April 17, 2016

Best of the Best

Page 15

THANK YOU for entrusting us with your business over the years.

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

We appreciate all of our customers!

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

www.boonedrug.com

Jennifer Noms and Amelia Kellam accept the award for Deerfield Ridge Assisted Living, which won Best Assisted Living.

Six yea yearss in a row!! r w!!

THANK YOU CUSTOMERS FOR YOUR LOYAL SUPPORT! 2550 HWY 421 NORTH, BOONE • 828-297-5055 WWW.APPALACHIANFURNITURESTORE.COM

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Best of the Best

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April 17, 2016

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US THE

Best Mattress Store in Watauga County!

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

The Best Nurse award went to Christopher Thompson.

2015

2016

We are proud to have helped so many people in the High Country Rest Well and Live Better.

Locally

OWNED

Rest Well Live Better

OUR WAY OF SAYING THANKS

LOCAL COMMUNITY involvement

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Anna Roseman and Emily Kolakowski of Anna Banana’s accept the award for Best Women’s Boutique.

2 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS: BOONE MALL AND FOSCOE • 828-528-4161 WWW.BLACKBERRYMATTRESS.COM FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK

BUY 1

pillow

GET 1

free

*Excludes Tempurpedic.

Coupon must be presented at time of purchase PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Andy Harkins accepts the award for Best Insurance Agent.

Best of the Best

April 17, 2016

AWARDS FROM PAGE 14

PROPANE COMPANY Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Wallace Propane Appalachian Energy Blue Ridge Energies

SECONDHAND STORE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Ram’s Rack Welcome Home Thriftique Anna Banana’s

SHOE/BOOT STORE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Blue Skies Watauga Mini Storage Alpine Storage

TELEPHONE COMPANY Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Recess Farmer’s Ski Shop Snow Toys

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Beech Mountain Appalachian Ski Mountain Sugar Mountain

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Heavenly Touch Day Spa Westglow Resort and Spa Chetola Resort and Spa

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Mountain Lumber Company Lowe’s home Improvement Miller Industries

WINE STORE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Peabody’s Wine and Beer Merchants Grandfather Vineyard Benchmark Provisions

WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Clark Tire Boone Tire Alray Tire

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Anna Banana’s Lucky Penny Boone Belles

YOGA STUDIO

TRAVEL AGENCY Templeton Travel Cruise 1 Imagine Travel

WEDDING STORE

SPA

Did Someone Say Party?

Wedding Resource Center South’s Clothiers

WEDDING VENUE

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

WINDOW & DOOR STORE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

SkyLine SkyBest Charter Carolina West

TIRE STORE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

SKI SLOPE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

SageSport Recess Footsloggers

STORAGE FACILITY Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Watsonatta Western World Footsloggers Mo’s Boots

SKI SHOP Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

SPORTING GOODS STORE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Page 17

Grandfather Vineyard Chetola Resort Taylor House Inn

Neighborhood Yoga High Country Yoga Wellness Center

ACUPUNCTURE CLINIC Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Burton Moomaw, Lac.DiplAc Wellspring Chiropractic & Acupuncture Blue Ridge Acupuncture

ANIMAL CLINIC Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Animal Hospital of Boone Animal Emergency Clinic Appalachian New River Veterinary

ATTORNEY Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Joshua Teague Tom Speed Nathan Miller SEE AWARDS, PAGE 18

Congratulations to all 2016 Best of the Best Winners 2011

2013

2014

2015

2016

Sending a special thank you to our family of patients who have supported and placed their trust in us for 43 years.

828.264.2762 • 142 Doctors Drive | Boone, NC 28607 • www.BooneNCDentist.com

Best of the Best

Page 18

April 17, 2016

Thank You!!

As Resort Area Ministries (RAM) approaches its 50th year of ministry to the High Country, thank you for your support of the RAM’s Rack Thrift Shop.

Your donations and purchases make it possible for RAM to continue its work of home repair projects, campground ministries, and providing free clothing, household items, and furnishings to those in need.

Thank you for helping make the RAM’s Rack Thrift Shop the “Best of the Best”!

(828) 262-5029

RAM

Sponsored by Resort Area Ministries, Inc.

PO Box 24 Boone, NC 828-264-6605

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Molly Miller and Sandra Reese of Lowe’s Home Improvement accept the awards for Best Appliance Store and Best Hardware Store.

Thanks to all of our wonderful customers who voted us

Best Fuel Oil Dealer Best Fireplace Shop •Propane •Heating Oil •Fireplaces •Outdoor Kitchens •Tankless Water Heaters

AWARDS FROM PAGE 17

ASSISTED LIVING Winner Runner-Up

Deerfield Ridge Assisted Living Glenbridge

DENTIST Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Warren General Dentistry Steven Airy Blue Ridge Dentistry

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

C&W Electric Blalock Electric Jared Munday

AUTO SALESPERSON Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Thom Jackson Dick Brookshire Ira Wilson

FAMILY DOCTOR Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Dr. Charles Baker Dr. Marshall Murrey Dr. Timothy Daily

BEAUTY SALON Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Haircut 101 Serendipity Canvas Beauty Bar

CHIROPRACTOR

2016

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Dr. Perry Fidler Hawthorne Chiropractic Dr. Lauren Fontaine

COSMETOLOGIST Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

2228 Old Hwy 421 South, Boone, NC 28607 www.gbenergy.com • 828-262-3637

Hampton Funeral Service Austin and Barnes Funeral Home

GYNECOLOGIST Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Dr. Beverly F. Womack Dr. Cecilia Grassinger Dr. Camille Andrews

HEARING AID SERVICE

Pam Johnson Melissa Dodge Jezebel LeBatard

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Freda Smith Gwyn Parsons Luke Copeland

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

CPA Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

FUNERAL HOME Winner Runner-Up

All-American Hearing Centers Blue Ridge ENT Dr. Charles Ford

HOME BUILDER Capehart and Washburn VPC Builders, LLC KBI SEE AWARDS, PAGE 21

April 17, 2016

Best of the Best

Page 19

Thank you FOR VOTING US BEST OF THE BEST 2016

Best New Car Dealer & Best Auto Salesperson (THOM JACKSON)

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Thank you for voting us

BEST OF THE BEST PET BOARDING in Watauga County!

Thank you for your vote of confidence as Watauga County's

Best Sporting Goods Store.

Our tails are wagging in joy!

2016

DOG TRAINING • DOG DAYCARE PET SITTING • PUPPY KINDERGARTEN BOARDING • AGILITY CLASSES

We appreciate your support and for shopping local!

Boone Mall WWW.WOOF-PACK.NET • 828-773-4811

2282 Hwy 105 South, Boone, NC • (828)264-3626

www.RossAuto.com

Perry and Anne-Marie Yates of New River Building Supply accept the award for Best Lumber Store.

A BOONE TRADITION SINCE 1992 828.262.1112

Best of the Best

Page 20

April 17, 2016

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Dolores Dement, Ellie Miller and John Mena (front); Haley Madson, Miranda Rickmar, Brittany Benton and April Varner (center); and Jezebel LeBatard and Kendra Fletcher (back); accept the award for Best Beauty Salon on behalf of Haircut 101.

Thanks for Voting us

Best of the Best!

Doug and Mitzi Wallace of Wallace Propane would like to thank all their employees for helping them earn Best of the Best!

OPEN: Monday-Friday: 7:30am-5:30pm Saturday: 8:00am-1:30pm Closed Sunday

2015

2016

Boone, NC • 828-297-1115

828.264.4777 701 NC-105 Extension Boone, NC 28607

Best of the Best

April 17, 2016

Page 21

Thank you for voting us best Home Builder in Watauga County! www.capehartandwashburn.com PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

The award for Best Wedding Venue went to Grandfather Vineyard, represented by Nichole Winder and Dylan Tatum.

AWARDS FROM PAGE 18

ORTHODONTIST Winner Runner-Up

Drs. Mayhew & Schleffer-OP Smiles Dr. Reed

PASTOR INSURANCE AGENCY Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Farm Bureau Insurance High Country Insurance Nationwide Harkins Agency

INSURANCE AGENT Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Andy Harkins Joey Lucas Marc Mashburn

MASSAGE THERAPIST Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Denise Brown Megan Ward Michael Mull

NURSE Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Christopher Thompson Evelyn Shelton Shay Trethewey

NURSE PRACTITIONER Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Tiffany Shreve FNC-BC Carrington Pertalion Sue Sweeting

OPHTHALMOLOGIST Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Dr. Joseph E. Allen Dr. Daniel Sullivan OD Dr. Daniel Krontz MD

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Ray Greene Seth Norris Greg Heisler

PET BOARDING Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Woof Pack Pet Services Pet Prairie Fetching Ridge

PLUMBING CONTRACTOR Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Brooks Plumbing & Heating Co. Labonte Plumbing McDaniel Plumbing

PUBLIC SERVANT Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Amy Shook Marg McKinney Diane C. Deal

REAL ESTATE AGENCY Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Blue Ridge Realty and Investments Mountaineer Commercial Real Estate Vincent Properties

REAL ESTATE AGENT Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Dusty Washburn Tracy Simms Stephen McDaniel

SEE AWARDS, PAGE 24

• Turn-Key Construction • Log Cabins • Renovations • Kitchen & Bath Cabinetry • Design Services

2016

Best of the Best

Page 22

April 17, 2016

Thank you for partnering with the Chamber to promote business in the High Country.

Voted Best of the Best Civic Group

2016

SHOP DINE GIVE HIRE CLOSER I S BET TE R

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Ashley and J.P. Pardy of Recess accept the award for Best Ski Shop.

We would like to thank our Loyal Customers for Voting Us 2016

BEST of the BEST

2016

!

Thanks for voting us

Best of the Best

Our designers create gorgeous arrangements for weddings, dinner parties, prom, Mother’s Day and graduation.

Windshield Repairs:

Please visit our store to see our selection of gifts.

30.00

$

(does not apply to synthetic oil)

Oil Changes:

30.00

$

(does not apply to *Mention synthetic oil)

Welcoming our new mechanic, Seth Miller

Thank you for voting us

this ad to get 30% off labor rates.

CUSTOMER APPRECIATION-BEGINNING OUR 30th YEAR CELEBRATION

BEST SUSHI RESTAURANT in Watauga County!

161 Howard Street Suite B 828 386 1201 Mon - Sat 5pm - close

- the CoBo Family

828-264-3313 • 186 Boone Heights Drive www.bouquetfloristinboone.com

Serving Watauga, Avery & Ashe Since 1986

April 17, 2016

Best of the Best

Page 23

Visit our showroom at 7881 Highway 105 South in the Twin Rivers Shopping Center

Thank you for your support in voting us Best of the Best in 2016!

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

The award for Best Christmas Tree Farm went to Cornett-Deal Christmas Tree Farm, represented

by Melissa Humphrey, Diane Cornett-Deal and Maggie Deal.

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Dr. Blaire Warren, Dr. Lee Warren and Debin Warren of Warren General Dentistry accept the award for Best Dentist.

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Jeff Collins, Gregg Parsons and Chris Riley of Peabody’s Wine and Beer Merchants accept the award for Best Wine Store.

Best of the Best

Page 24

April 17, 2016

Thank You!

for voting me Best of the Best Cosmetologist, 2 years in a row!

“I appreciate your recognition and the continual support and patronage of my clients, friends and family.”

Pam Johnson

2016

2015

Pam Johnson: 828.268.0402 ext. 14 643 Greenway Rd Ste K-2 | Boone, NC Hair Creations

Thank you for voting us

2016

Best Sports Bar in Watauga County 3 years in a row!

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Sally Tatum and Summer Hayes of Tatum Galleries accept the award for Best Home Decor Store.

AWARDS FROM PAGE 18

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY Winner Runner-Up

Appalachian/Brian Estates Forrest Ridge

VETERINARIAN Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Dr. Howard Johnson Dr. Susan Mast Dr. Cara Roten

CHRISTMAS TREE FARM Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Cornett Deal Christmas Tree Farm Turtle Creek Greene Farm

STUDENT HOUSING

MONDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

Wing Nite

Karaoke Nite

Trivia Nite

.45¢

Check our website for Weekend Specials & Events

THEROCKSPORTSBAR.COM 276 WATAUGA VILLAGE DR (828)386-1723

WAL-MART SHOPPING CENTER

FACEBOOK.COM / THEROCKBOONE

Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Winkler Organization Mountaineer Village Boone High Country Rentals

CHURCH Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Willow Valley Baptist Church Boone UMC Perkinsville Baptist Church

SURGEON Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Dr. William Tate Dr. Paul Dagher Dr. Tim Edmisten

CIVIC CLUB Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Kiwanis Lions Club

TEACHER Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Anne Donadio Jennifer Lacey Kelley Wilson

COUNTY AGENCY Winner Runner-Up Runner-Up

Watauga County Project on Aging Watauga County Sheriff’s Office Watauga County Cooperative Extension

Best of the Best

April 17, 2016

Page 25

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Wallace Propane, represented by Doug and Mitzi Wallace, won the award for Best Propane Company.

“

Thank you to my valued clients, family, friends and colleagues for your continuous support. For you are the reason for my success and I am truly humbled and honored.

- Dusty Washburn

”

Since 1974

Thanking our community for the confidence and support for over 41 years.

2016

2015

2016

SKIING SNOWBOARDING ICE SKATING TUBING

Thank you for selecting us Best Ski Resort 2015-2016

2016

VOTED BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

2271 Hwy 105 | Boone, NC 28607 828.964.3132 www.blueridgerealty.net

#beechmtn n

BEECHMOUNTAINRESORT.COM SORT.COM

Best of the Best

Page 26

April 17, 2016

Thanks for Your Votes!

2015

2014

Hosting meetings & events for up to 60 in our beautiful Mountaineer Room

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Jordan Sweet, Perry Conklin and Eric Burns of Clark Tire accept the award for Best Tire Store.

2016

Stop in for Starbucks and great breakfast!

Courtyard by Marriott 1050 Hwy 105 · Boone, NC

828-265-7676 www.marriott.com/hkybn

2016

As our way of saying thanks for voting us best carpet cleaner in Watauga County

$ave $25 on Residential Carpet Cleaning from April 15 - May 15

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Terri and Richard Miller of Kudzu Music accept the award for Best Music Store.

($90 minimum)

Dove

CARPET AND UPHOLSTERY CLEANING INC.

Clean & Pure as a Snow White Dove LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED LICENSED & INSURED · BONDED · FREE ESTIMATES Boone & Blowing Rock Areas • Watauga, Ashe & Avery Counties

828-265-4843

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Dr. Perry Fidler accepts the award for Best Chiropractor.

Best of the Best

April 17, 2016

PHOTOS BY DAWN SHUMATE

Page 27

Sam Parker of Our Daily Bread accepts the award for Best Deli/Sub.

Megan Goheen displays the Peddler’s award for Best Steakhouse.

Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you.

We appreciate your business and the confidence you have placed in us.

2016

Gwen and Ronald Dhing of Makoto’s proudly display their award for Best Japanese Restaurant.

Best of the Best

Page 28

April 17, 2016

THANKS FOR VOTING US All-American Hearing Centers, Inc. Treating you like family since 2003.

Best of the Best 2015

2 years in a row

2016

820 D State Farm Rd Boone, NC 28607

828.265.3236

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Carrie McNeil and Corinna Bailey of OP Smiles accept the Best Orthodontist award.

WE ARE HONORED TO BE VOTED BEST LUMBER STORE FOR 2016.

WE APPRECIATE WATAUGA COUNTY’S SUPPORT! NEW RIVER 3148 NC Hwy 105 South Boone, NC 28607 (828) 264-5650

2340 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-5660

2016

Best of the Best

April 17, 2016

Page 29

Thanks to all our wonderful customers throughout all these years. It is such a pleasure to serve you!

225 Vineyard Land • Banner Elk, NC • 828-963-2400

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

5320 Highway 105 South • Banner Elk, NC • 828-963-6466

Higher Grounds, represented by Gloria and Matthew Scott, and Samantha Lee, won Best Coffee Shop.

at

We Love Locals!

Because you make the store a Boone favorite!

"Keeping it cool and funky shopping at Anna Banana's. I've been a consignor since before the store opened. It's a win-win for both of us."

Nancy is a retired social worker and current community organizer in g country. y the high

Thanks for voting us

Thank you for voting Dan’l Boone Inn Best Home Cooking for 2016!

2015

Hope to see you soon!

Best Authentic Italian Restaurant & Catering Company 2011

2012

2013

2014

2016

...And don't forget we have MENSWEAR too!

641 W. King Street • 828.865.2000 at the corner of King & Depot Streets

130 Hardin St. • Boone, NC 28607 • (828) 264-8657

Hwy 105 S. Boone, NC 28607 (828) 262-5128 • www.casarustica1981.com

2016

Best of the Best

Page 30

April 17, 2016

For voting us the Best Ca Carpet pet Store!

We are thankful to all of our customers!

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Liam Hunter and Brittany Benton receive the award for Best Breakfast Restaurant for Sunrise Grill on behalf of Ian and Lisa Hunter.

Thank you for voting us

Best Restaurant Service 2016

for the 2nd year in a row &

Best Night Spot in Watauga County

970 Rivers Street, Boone, NC 828-264-7772 • www.CafePortofino.net Follow us on Facebook & stay up to date on special events and daily specials!

April 17, 2016

Best of the Best

Page 31

THANK YOU to our customers for an amazing 47 years!

2016

WATSONATTA WESTERN WORLD

PHOTO BY DAWN SHUMATE

Elizabeth Pedroni and Courtney Tatum of CR Catering and Casa Rustica accept the awards for Best Caterer and Best Italian Restaurant, respectively.

www.booneboots.com

711 WEST KING STREET • DOWNTOWN BOONE OPEN MON-SAT 9-5:30 PM, CLOSED SUN • 828.264.4540

Old World Galleries Village Jewelers

2016

Thank you to our customers for making us the best Jewelry Store.

FINE JEWELRY CUSTOM DESIGN & REPAIR VINTAGE JEWELRY 697 West King St. • Boone, NC • 828-264-6559 www.OldWorldGalleries.com

Best of the Best

Page 32

April 17, 2016

PHOTOS BY DAWN SHUMATE

The award for Best Bank went to Highlands Union Bank, represented by Krista Cockerham, Carla Brannan, Lisa Adams, Farrett Shore and Joannie Woods.

Accepting the award for Best Body Shop are Toby, Joyce and Dwane Hampton of Hampton’s Body Shop.

WINE GIFT & BEER

BASKETS

& PARTY

PLANNING

GOURMET G

MIXERS

FOOD 6

GLASS-

WEDDING

Ye ar

o s in a R

w

2016

WARE

CELLAR

DESIGN & D CONSULTING C

828.264.9476 • 1104 HWY 105, Boone

www.PeabodysWineandBeer.com

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