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
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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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