Watauga Democrat presents
Best of the Best Sponsored by
BEST OF THE BEST
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Wednesday, December 16, 2020
Accepting the award for Best Insurance Agency are, from left, Front Row-Tabitha Elliott, Bonnie Strader, Crystal Puett, Jennifer Taylor Front Row-Eddie Alejandro, Sue Davis, Mary Bowman, Toby Oliver, Cameron Smith, Bradley Myers, Connor Sprinkle, Joey Lucas and Johnny Carson of Farm Bureau.
Watauga’s Best in 2020 BY KAYLA LASURE kayla.lasure@wataugademocrat.com
T
he 10th annual Watauga Democrat Best of the Best awards were announced a little differently in 2020 than in years past. Sometimes serving the public as a business owner or employee can be a thankless job, and it’s the time of
year where local business people can be recognized. Despite the year being an unconventional one for local businesses, community members still voted in droves for their favorite companies and individual employees in Watauga. Businesses have shown how resilient they can be in the face of adversity during the COVID-19 pandemic, and that wasn’t lost on the
community members that they serve. Community members voted for 160 categories of awards to honor area workers. Categories covered everything from best bakery and best insurance agency to best veterinarian and best restaurant. Typically, businesses are invited to attend the annual awards banquet hosted by the staff of Mountain Times Publications. This year, awardees were indi-
vidually contacted by Mountain Times Publications staff and given the congratulatory news of their winnings. The Watauga Democrat congratulates each of the winners, and extends its gratitude for the work that they do each day for our community. Businesses are featured in this special section, and on the Watauga Democrat website at www.wataugademocrat.com.
Fairness. Accuracy. Relevance. Vital to democracy. Vital to Watauga County.
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
BEST OF THE BEST
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2020 Best of the Best of Watauga County Animal Clinic: Pet Care Clinic Antique Store: Antiques on Howard Appliance Repair: R&C Appliance Repair Appliance Store: Lowe’s Home Improvement Art Gallery: Turchin Center for the Visual Arts Assisted Living: Deerfield Ridge Attorney: Eggers Law Office Auto Parts: Charlie’s NAPA Auto Sales Person: Chris Toliver Bakery: Stick Boy Bread Co. Bank: Lifestore Barbecue Restaurant: Woodlands Barbeque Restaurant Bartender: Travis Rector Beauty Salon: Mane Habit Salon Bed and Breakfast: Taylor House Inn Beer Brewery: Booneshine Bicycle Store: Boone Bike Biscuit: Bojangles Body Shop: Hampton’s Body Shop Book Store: Foggy Pine Breakfast Restaurant: Sunrise Grill Burrito: Black Cat Burrito Cable Company: Spectrum/Charter Car Dealer new: Modern Automotive Group Car Dealer Used: Ross Dodge Jeep Chrysler RAM Car Repair: Alray Tire Car Wash: Bubbles Car Wash SEE BEST ON PAGE 9
Accepting the award for Best Sporting Goods Store and Best Running Store are, from left, Ethan Lewis, Kaleb Thurman and Else Dietrich of Hibbett Sports.
Thank you for voting us
Best Winery! Thank you for voting us Best Paving Company!
Serving self-produced world class wines since 2011
124 Moretz Hollow Road Zionville, NC 28698
828-297-5048 225 Vineyard Lane Banner Elk, NC 28604 Email: Info@GrandfatherVineyards.com HOURS: Mon,Wed-Sat: 12pm to 6 pm • Tuesday: Closed Sunday: 1 pm to 5 pm
www.moretzpavinginc.com moretzpavinginc@gmail.com
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BEST OF THE BEST
Accepting the award for Best Fast Food Restaurant are, from left back row, Scott Fogleman and Kevin Bryan, middle row, Santiago Cardona, front row, Terese Fogleman and Melanie Hamm of Chick-fil-A Boone.
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
Accepting the award for Best Nurse is Danielle Shook of Medi-Home Health and Hospice.
You’ve tried the rest and you voted for the best! Thank You!
Best Italian Restaurant The owners and staff of the Horton Hotel would like to graciously thank our guests and the community for voting us Best Hotel in Watauga County for 2020. We are humbled by your support and recognition and will continue to strive to be the Best as we move forward into 2021.
Come celebrate with us on our beautiful Rooftop Snow Bar (open all winter) or in the comfort of our Lobby Lounge. 611 W King St, Boone NC 28607 828-832-8060 • Email info@thehorton.com Lounge Hours: Thursday-Friday 4pm – 10pm Last Call, Saturday 12pm – 10pm Last Call Sunday 12pm – 6pm Last Call, Monday-Wednesday Closed
BEST OF THE BEST
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m m unity o C d
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t of t he Be s t Celebrating 42 years in business and 10 years as Watauga’s Best of the Best Beer and Wine Store.
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Call us! 828-264-9476 Or text us at 828-386-7128 for any orders or inquiries! 1104 Highway 105 South, Boone, NC 28607 kevin@peabodyswineandbeer.com Temporary Store Hours: Monday - Thursday 9:00am - 9:00pm: Friday - Saturday 9:00am - 10:00pm: Sunday 10:00am - 9:00pm
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BEST OF THE BEST
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2020 Best of the Best of Watauga County
Accepting the award for Best Hamburger and Best Restaurant Service are, from left to right, Chris Varipapa, Scott Williford and Seth Sullivan of The Cardinal.
Accepting the award for Best Jewelry Store are, from left, Morgan Shaw, Katelyn Carson, Charles Travis and Jennie Trivette of Village Jewelers.
Accepting the award for Best Furniture Store are, from left, Nick Wiles, Gary Laws Jr., Daniel Heaton, Richard Fobert and Tim Dowell of Badcock Furniture. Not pictured: Justin Jones, Ronnie Roark, Geoff Wahwassuck and Emily Smith.
BEST OF THE BEST
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Accepting the award for Best Attorney are, from left, Brooke Coffey, Pam Moretz, Jonathan Green, Stacey Eggers, IV, Peyton Meachum, Chris Barnes, Cindy Wallace, Kevin Friley and Lou McLean of Eggers Eggers Eggers & Eggers Attorneys at Law.
2020
Voted Best Animal Clinic
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THANK YOU to the High Country for Voting Us Best Brewery in 2020!
Accepting the award for Best Music Store are, from left, Terri Miller and Richard Miller of Kudzu Music.
Tasting Room, Restaurant, and Food Truck Visit our new outdoor beer garden in East Boone.
BOONESHINE BREWING COMPANY 465 INDUSTRIAL PARK DRIVE BOONE, NC, 28607
www.booneshine.beer
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2020 Best of the Best of Watauga County BEST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3
Carpet Cleaning: Bush’s Carpet Cleaning Caterer: Reid’s Café & Catering Cell Phone Repair: Boone Cell Phone Repair Cell Phone Service: Verizon Childrens Store: Bluebird Exchange Chinese Restaurant: CoBo Sushi Bistro & Bar Chiropractor: Marathon Chiropractic Christmas Tree Farm: Circle C Tree Farms Church: The Heart Church Civic Club: Rotary Club Coach: Angel Elderken Coffee Roaster: Hatchett Coffee Coffee Shop: Higher Grounds Computer Repair: Nordic PC Cosmetologist: Jezabel LaBatard County Agency: Watauga County Sheriff’s Office CPA: Combs, Tennant, Carpenter PC Craft: Hobby Lobby Credit Union: State Employees’ Credit Union SEE BEST ON PAGE 16
Accepting the award for Best Replacement Glass are, from left, Joey Phillips, Debra Phillips, Brian Wilson, Will Price, Silas Phillips and Sawyer Phillips of Miller Industries. Not pictured is Kathy Smith.
Thank you for voting Boone Sunrise Rotary Club the Best of the Best!
Thanks For Voting
Now, join us! Help us change lives locally and internationally. Some of our annual projects include: Back to School Festival, Habitat for Humanity, Clean drinking water in Tanzania and Dominican Republic. Find out more at boonerotary.org or find Boone Sunrise Rotary on Facebook
Qualifications for membership: Desire to leave Boone better than you found it!
Best Japanese Restaurant
BEST OF THE BEST
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Congratulations to all of the
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
apprhs.org
Best of the Best winners! Best Exercise Gym: Paul H. Broyhill Wellness Center Best Gynecologist: Dr. Cecilia Grasinger Best Oncologist: Dr. Anna Sobol Best Surgeon: Dr. Anne-Corinne Beaver Best Nurse: Wilma Bryan
Located in the beautiful North Carolina Mountains, Appalachian Regional Healthcare System offers experienced, highly trained medical professionals and the latest medical technologies and advancements. We are committed to promoting health in the High Country, enhancing quality of life and simply “Making Life Better.” Behavioral Health Emergency Services Family Medicine Gastroenterology Gynecology Heart & Vascular Imaging Services Internal Medicine
Laboratory Obstetrics Oncology Orthopedics Pain Center Palliative Care Pastoral Care Pediatrics
Pulmonology Radiology Rehabilitation Rheumatology Same-Day Clinics Short Term Care Sleep Center Specialty Clinics
Sports Medicine Surgery Telehealth Urology Wellness Center Women’s Health Wound Care
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
Accepting the award for Best Family Doctor is Dr. Leslie Smith of Compassionate Care.
BEST OF THE BEST
Accepting the award for Best Sushi is Joseph Miller, owner of Cobo Sushi Bistro and Bar.
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Accepting the award for Best Photographer and Best Photography Studio is Kim Scott of Timeless Treazures Photography.
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST OFFICE OUTFITTER IN 2020!
We are celebrating another anniversary! WJ Office has been delivering innovative results for over 44 years, to help your business succeed! 118 S Big Valley St, Boone, NC 28607
(828) 264-3283
Terese and Scott Fogleman and the Team at Chick-ďŹ l-A of Boone
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We want to thank all our loyal customers who continued to eat with us in 2020! When our dining room closed, it was a sad day. We worked hard and fast to find a way to continue serving our customers and Curbside was born! Thank you for sticking with us through the ups and downs of this crazy year. We are honored to receive the award of best fast food in Watauga County for 2020 and we look forward to serving you in 2021!
2082 Blowing Rock Road, Boone, NC 28607 (828) 264-4660 www.cfarestaurant.com/boone/home
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We are proud to have helped so many people in the High Country Rest Well and Live Better.
Accepting the award for Best Indian Restaurant are, from left, Aman (manager) and Jeremy Hunsaker (owner) of Mint Indian Cuisine.
Accepting the award for Best Oil Change are from left, Zachary Perry, Jeremy Turner and Daniel Keylor of Mountaineer Quick Lube.
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
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BEST CAR DEALER PRE-OWNED
RossAuto.com
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BEST OF THE BEST
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
2020 Best of the Best of Watauga County
Accepting the award for Best Preschool Childcare is Catharine Milner of Boone United Methodist Church Preschool.
Accepting the award for Best Storage Facility is Bob Jones of The Webb Company.
Accepting the award for Best Beauty Salon is Jezabel LeBatard, owner of Mane Habit Salon.
Accepting the award for Best Beer and Wine Store is Jeff Collins, owner of Peabody’s Wine and Beer Merchants.
Accepting the award for Best Florist is Tiffany Wilkinson of Log House Florist.
Accepting the award for Best Book Store is Mary Ruthless, owner of Foggy Pine Books.
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Thanksfor for voting voting us Thanks us *! Best Agency again 2020* BestInsurance Insurance Agency of in 2019
Watauga County Farm Bureau 135 State Farm Road | Boone, NC 28607 www.ncfbins.com/watauga-oliver/boone.html An Authorized Agency for
NCSVSS41918
828.264.5270
2012
2013
Auto • Home • Life • Health • Bank
Real service. Real people. 2015
*Annual votes compiled by Mountain Times Publications *North Carolina Farm Bureau® Mutual Insurance Co. *Farm Bureau® Insurance of North Carolina, Inc. *Southern Farm Bureau® Life Insurance Co., Jackson, MS *An independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association
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2020 Best of the Best of Watauga County BEST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9
Dance Studio: Studio K Deli/Sub: Jersey Mike’s Subs Dentist: Dr. Robbie Bridgeman, Family Dentistry Donut: Local Lion Drug Store: Boone Drug Dry Cleaner: A Cleaner World Electrical Contractor: Jared Munday Electric Exercise Gym: Broyhill Wellness Center Eye wear Store: Blue Ridge Vision Family Doctor: Dr. Leslie Smith Farm Supply Store: Tractor Supply Fast Food Restaurant: Chick-Fil-A Fencing Company: VPC Builders Fine Dining: Peddler Steakhouse Fireplace store: Blue Ridge Energy Flooring Store: Midway Carpet Florist/Flower Shop: Log Cabin Florist French Fries: Comeback Shack Fuel Oil Dealer: Blue Ridge Energy Funeral Home: Austin and Barnes Funeral Home Furniture Store: Badcock’s Furniture SEE BEST ON PAGE 24
Accepting the award for Best Plumbing Contractor are, from left, Ethan Sermersheim, Elias Nichols, Hunter Tucket, Raymond LaBonte, Matt Thompson, Dave Dolvacky, Anita Dolovacky and Matt McLain of Labonte Plumbing Inc.
Thank you for voting for Dr. Howard Johnson as the 2020 Best Veterinarian!
ANIMAL HOSPITAL OF BOONE Mon - Fri: 8:00am - 6:00pm Saturday: 8:00am - 12:00pm Sunday: Closed
(828)-264-7113 2773 NC-105, Boone, NC 28607 www.animalhospitalboone.com
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THANK YOU! Thank you to the High Country Community for voting for us as
Best Non-Profit! We wouldn’t be here without your support... thank you!
Accepting the award for Best Travel Agency are, from left, Maggie Farrington and Brad Farrington of Magic Bound Travel.
Visit our website to find out more!
hcbcf.org
High County Breast Cancer Foundation STRENGTH IN PINK Accepting the award for Best Dry Cleaner are, from left, Steve Plantone, Noah Biggins, Kim Osborne, Ethan Eckard, Adrian Winterton and Drew Woods of A Cleaner World.
This ad paid for by Irene Sawyer
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BEST OF THE BEST
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
2020 Best of the Best of Watauga County
Accepting the award for Best Veterinarian is, back row from left: Dr. Howard Johnson, shown with Animal Hospital of Boone staff, Tucker Robinson and Harley Craddock. Middle row: Emily Sloan, Amy Beaird, Nik Daughtery, Callie Eller, Vicki Lyons, Dr. Liz Watson and Dr. Keith Chesnutt. Front row: Danielle Lewis, Kaytlynn Shoemaker, Christy Powell and Joanna Burkett.
Accepting the award for Best Wedding Dress Store are, from left, Faye Brock, Leslie Billingsley, Laura Hickey, and Lou Ella South of South’s Specialty Clothiers.
Accepting the award for Best Japanese and Best Seafood Restaurant are, from left, Ronald and Gwen Dhing of Makoto’s.
Accepting the award for Best Wedding Venue are, from left, Chassie Stone and Jeffrey Jones of Chetola Resort at Blowing Rock.
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
BEST OF THE BEST
Thank you for voting us “Best of the Best” fireplace shop!
The Showroom for Propane and Fuels Whether you’re shopping for gas logs, fireplaces, water heaters or grills, Blue Ridge Energy is here to meet your propane and fuel needs. You’ll find flexible delivery service options to bring propane, fuel oil, and kerosene directly to your residence. We can also monitor your tank and schedule deliveries with our auto-fill service. You can even manage your account from your mobile device with the Blue Ridge Energy propane and fuels app. Check out our showroom today and see why readers voted us the Best of the Best!
Visit us at our Watauga County showroom or online at BlueRidgeEnergy.com.
Boone 2491 US Hwy. 421 South 828-264-3521
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Accepting the award for Best Brewery are, from left, Ann Mosely Whitsett, Matthew McQuinn, Tim Herdklotz, Alex Stutts, Matt Mize, Harrison Rogers, Sarah Venable, Jake Reid, Ben McFalls, and David Baker of Booneshine Brewing Company.
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Accepting the award for Best Shoe/Boot Store are, from left, Cathy Hardy and Kelly Hardy of Mo’s Boots and Outdoor Gear.
Local news has never been more important. Thank you for making us the most trusted news source.
7883 NC Hwy 105S, Unit D
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Accepting the award for Best Pest Control are, from left to right and back to front, Tim Norman, Carrie Herman, Lucas Lynchmanenko, Yvonne Roberts, James Eno, Jason Chapman, Tim Rudisill, Jared Hill, Tad Higgs, Bruce Roberts, Tommy Clawson, Max Brown, Stephen Smith and Holly Faulkner of A-1 Pest Control.
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BEST OF THE BEST
Accepting the award for Best Chiropractic OfďŹ ce is Dr. Ryan Woods of Marathon Chiropractic.
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
Accepting the award for Best Italian Restaurant is Evan Simmons of Bella’s Italian Restaurant.
Accepting the award for Best Farm Supply Store is Robert Bramlette, Manager Tractor Supply.
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“Voted Best of the Best Beauty Salon and Cosmetologist 2020”
OUR WHY With our Grand Opening was August 2019, Our goal was to bring an unassuming but indulgent experience to our customers while teaching them how to have “more good hair days”. We use the best products and massaging shampoo chairs. It was also important to us to have a supportive salon environment for stylist.
OUR STRUGGLE In March 2020 we were forced to temporarily shut our doors due to COVID-19. Our goal was simply to survive in order to continue to serve our clients. To not only have “survived” 2020 but to be named Best Salon and Cosmetologist in Watauga County has exceeded all our goals and expectations. We are honored and equally humbled by the recognition.
OUR WHY “My Team and I would like to thank our clients and our community for their ongoing support as we continue to strive to always be Best of the Best for the people we are lucky enough to be able to continue to serve.“ Jezabel LeBatard, owner Mane Habit Salon
Boone Mall next to Old Navy (828) 386-6600
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2020 Best of the Best of Watauga County BEST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16
General Store: Mast General Store Gift Shop: Mast General Store Glass Replacement: Miller Industries Gluten Free Restaurant: Kindly Kitchen Golf Course: Boone Golf Course Government Agency: Watauga County Sheriff’s Office Greek Restaurant: Lily’s Snack Bar Gynecologist: Dr. Cecilia Grasinger Hamburger: The Cardinal Hardware Store: Lowe’s Home Improvement Hearing Aid Service: All American Hearing Heating and Air Conditioning: Edmisten Heating and Cooling Home Builder: VPC Builders Home Cooking Restaurant: The Proper Home Decor: Common Good Home Security: Jared Munday Electric Hospice: Caldwell Hospice of the High Country Hot Dog: Comeback Shack Hotel: The Horton Hotel
SEE BEST ON PAGE 33
Accepting award for Best Electrical Contractor and Best Home Security are, from left to right, Jared Munday, Tate Cook, Tom Winebarger, Lloyd Pugh, Sam Roark, Matt Anderson, Julia Goldsmith and Mike Muehleisen of Jared Munday Electric, Inc.
Thank You for voting us
Best Plumbing Contractor!
THANKS for voting us
2018
Thanks for making us ‘The Best!’
Best of the Best Electrical Contractor and Home Security!
697 West King Street
DOWNTOWN BOONE across from the Post Office
1257 Poplar Grove Rd. S. Boone, NC 28607 828.386.6565 www.blowingrockplumber.com
1257 Poplar Grove Rd S Boone, NC 28607 828.355.9024
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
Accepting the award for Best Cable Company is Andrew Brown of Spectrum.
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Accepting the award for Best Car Repair and Best Tire Store are, from left, Jim Gragg, Jose Gomez, Josh Hanson, Wesley Lewis, Judd Huffman, Elpidio Gomez, Steven Gragg and Gray Huffman of Alray Tire & Auto.
Thank You to Voters
Thank you for voting
Taqueria El Paso as
Best Taco in 2020! 2018
Thank you for shopping, consigning and dancing with us for 10 wonderful years!! Happy Holidays!! Xoxooo
Men’s & Women’s Consignment You never know what you’ll find!
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For Voting
Ray Greene Best Religious Leader! 603 Phillip's Branch Rd, Vilas, NC 28692
2693 NC-105, Boone, NC 28607 (828) 264-6755
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Wednesday, December 16, 2020
2020 Best of the Best of Watauga County
Accepting the award for Best Orthopedist is Lynn Gilbert of OrthoCarolina.
Accepting award for Best Internet is Paige Phillips SkyLine/SkyBest.
Save time and money with the right tools for any job.
Accepting the award for Best Nurse is Wilma Bryan of Appalachian Regional Healthcare System.
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Accepting the award for Best Mexican Restaurant are staff from Dos Amigos Mexican Restaurant.
C O M PA S S I O N A T E C A R E Dr. Leslie A. Smith, and the entire Compassionate Care team would like to express both their pride and gratitude for the honor of being voted Best Family Doctor in Watuaga County for 2020. While awards and public recognition are validating, the fact that the winner of this award was determined by a community vote makes this one extra special. Dr. Smith’s commitment to her community (both locally and globally) is reflected in Compassionate Care’s “Healthy Mission” statement. “Our mission is to provide exceptional quality and compassionate healthcare. We offer academic quality healthcare in a hometown, intimate medical office.” Thanks to our patients and our community for voting us Best Family Doctor in 2020. We will continue to strive to be “the Best” in our treatment and support of our patients and our community.
400 Shadowline Dr. Suite 201B, Boone, NC 28607
(828) 832-8300
HOURS: Monday - Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5 PM • Friday: 8:30 AM - Noon
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Accepting the award for Best Motorcycle/ATV Shop is Frank Peele, owner of Action Cycle Sports.
BEST OF THE BEST
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
Accepting the award for Best Paving Company are, from left, Connie Norris, Heather Isaacs, Rebecca Moretz, Jim Moretz, James Moretz, and Justin Moretz of Moretz Paving Inc.
Thank you for voting us again this year! Please stop by and browse our collection of furniture, tools, jewelry and more
199 Howard Street 828-262-1957 Open 7 Days a Week
BEST OF THE BEST
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
Accepting the award for Best Heating and Air Conditioning Store is David Shore, Edmisten Heating and Cooling.
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Accepting the award for Best Windshield Repair are, from left, Sean Fagan and Christopher Carle of Appalachian Auto Glass.
THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING CALDWELL HOSPICE BEST HOSPICE!
Care You Deserve www.caldwellhospice.org l
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l 828.754.0101 l 1.844.MY.JOURNEY
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Caldwell Hospice, the only not-for-profit hospice provider in Watauga and Ashe Counties, and one of two in Avery, is ACHC-accredited and Medicare-certified.
alliative Ca d P re
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Wednesday, December 16, 2020
2020 Best of the Best of Watauga County
Accepting the award for Best Biscuit is Charles Martin (left) and Dylan Meyers from Bojangles.
Accepting the award for Best Second Hand Store is Anna Roseman, owner Anna Bananas.
Be the ďŹ rst to know. Follow us.
/WataugaDemocrat
@WataugaDemocrat
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
BEST OF THE BEST
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BEST OF THE BEST 2020
Accepting the award for Best Fireplace Store are, from left, Kim Baumgardner, energy specialist, Heidi Ragan,Watauga district manager, Caven Witherspoon, energy specialist and Christy Denny, customer service specialist of Blue Ridge Energy.
Accepting the award for Best Hotel is Denise Lovin, co-owner of The Horton Hotel.
Thank You for voting
LYNN GILBERT PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT
The Staff of Common Ground Martial Arts would like to thank everyone who was kind enough to vote us Best of the Best for Watauga County. Without you we would not be able to do what we love so much. Thank you!
Contact us at Info@commongroundmaa.com or 828-773-9768
“Best Orthopedist 2020” Call 828.264.1100 today to make an appointment. OrthoCarolina – Boone Orthopedics 950 State Farm Rd. Suite 200 Boone, NC 28607
OrthoCarolina – Boone Physical Therapy 895 State Farm Rd. Suite 303 Boone, NC 28607
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2020 Best of the Best of Watauga County
Accepting the award for Best Natural Food Store are, from left, Allyson Medlin, Catherine Reczek, Irene Sawyer, Jason Sirmon, and Courtney Carroll of Be Natural Market.
Accepting the award for Best Hospice is Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care of the High Country. From left, Megan Bryan RN, and Donna Paisley, Clinical Administrative assistant.
Accepting the award for Best Barbeque is the crew from Woodlands Barbeque Restaurant and Catering Service.
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
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2020 Best of the Best of Watauga County BEST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24
Ice Cream/Yogurt Restaurant: Insomnia Cookie Indian Restaurant: Mint Insurance Agency: Watauga County Farm Bureau Insurance Agent: Joey Lucas Internet Provider: SkyLine/SkyBest Investment Company: Edward Jones Italian Restaurant: Bella’s Italian Restaurant Japanese Restaurant: Makoto’s Jewelry Store: Village Jewelers Landscaping Company: Ground Effects Lumber Store: New River Building Supply Mailing/Shipping: Go Postal Martial Arts Instruction: Trapper Taylor Massage Therapist: Jennifer Pillow Mattress Company: Blackberry Creek Mens Clothier: Belk Mexican Restaurant: Dos Amigos Motorcycle/ ATV Shop: Action Cycles Music Store: Kudzu Music Nail Salon: City Nails Natural Food: BE Natural SEE BEST ON PAGE 37
Accepting the award for Best Flooring Store are, from left, Jeff Miller, Mike Miller, Becky Miller and Cindy Gray of Midway Carpet & Tile.
Voted Best of the Best Glass Replacement 2 Years in a Row Thanks Watauga County, We Appreciate Your Support!
THANKS FOR VOTING!
Best Heating and AC Company
Miller Industries
1134 W King St | Boone, NC 28607 828.264.8824
492 Corbett McNeil Rd | Boone, NC 28607 828.264.0130 | www.edmistenhvac.com
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Wednesday, December 16, 2020
2020 Best of the Best of Watauga County
Accepting the award for best CertiďŹ ed Public Accountant are, from left, Brady Combs, Tina Lewis, Emily Reynolds, Jason Carpenter and Regina Graham of Combs, Tennant and Carpenter, P.C.
Accepting the award for Best Eyewear Store are, from left, Holly Williams, Tristin Hodges, Amanda Rights, Hannah Williams, Ginny Lily, Caitlin Sullivan, Leanne Jones-Salt, Desiree Aparicio, Debbie Heaton, Sarah Macaluso and Daniel Sullivan of Blue Ridge Vision.
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
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Accepting the award for Best Assisted Living Facility are, from left back row, James Roark, John Adams, Kevin Tacheny, Rebecca Miller, Holly Curtis and Seth Moore. Front Row: Amanda Berry, Lisa York, Lorie Fidler, Meghan Nyberg and Candice Myers of Deerfield Ridge Assisted Living.
Thank You!
We Sincerely Appreciate Your Business! Carrying on our Daddy’s tradition for over 56 years.
BEST AUTO BODY REPAIR
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BEST OF THE BEST
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
2020 Best of the Best of Watauga County
Accepting the award for Best Exercise Gym is Matt Schnitzer (left) and Greg Cox, Broyhill Wellness Center.
Accepting the award for Best of the Best Yoga Teacher is Briana Kidd.
From left, Margaret McGlamery, Brian Greer, Mark Gilleskie, Hal Hood, Karen Graham, Katie Eggers, Cindy Gore, Tempie Davis, Shelley Rollins, Denise Deitz, Deanna Clark and David Cottrell accept the Boone Best of the Best Bank award to LifeStore Bank from Teresa Roark Laws.
BEST OF THE BEST
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2020 Best of the Best of Watauga County BEST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33
Night Spot: Café Portofino Non-profit: High Country Breast Cancer Foundation Nurse: Wilma Bryan Nurse Practitioner: Natalie Bavino Office Outfitters: WJ Office Oil Change: Mountaineer Quick Lube Oncologist: Dr. Anna Sobel Optometrist/Ophthamologist: Dr. Daniel Krontz Orthodontist: OP Smiles, Schleffer, Mayhew, Conn Orthopedist: Lynn Gilbert PA OrthoCarolina Paving Company: Moretz Paving Pest Control: A1 Pest Control Pet Boarding: Woof Pack Pet Store: The Pet Place Photographer: Kim Scott Photography Studio: Timeless Treasures Physical Rehab: OrthoCarolina Pizza Restaurant: Capone’s Plumbing Contractor: Labonte Plumbing Power Equipment: Farmers Rentals Pre-Arrangement Agent: Walter Johnson SEE BEST ON PAGE 41
Accepting the award for Best County Agency and Best Government Agency are, from left, Sheriff Len Hagaman, Major Kelly Redmon, Captain Carolynn Johnson, and Captain Justin Wood of the Watauga County Sheriff’s Office.
Thank You Watauga County
pport!
Thanks for your su
“I am both humbled and honored to have been voted Best Public Servant again this year. My staff and I will continue to serve the good people of Watauga County in a means that validates your confidence and support.”
Diane Cornett Deal
Shop with us at 549 W King Street, Boone or online at lililuonking.com
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BEST OF THE BEST
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
2020 Best of the Best of Watauga County
Accepting the award for Best Insurance Agent is Joey Lucas of Farm Bureau.
Accepting the award for Best Bed and Breakfast are Tessa and Bernard Russo, owners of Taylor House Inn.
Accepting award for Best Investment Company is Edward Jones. Pictured are Becca Miller and Jason Sirmon.
Accepting the award for Best Public Servant is Diane Cornett Deal, Watauga County Clerk of Superior Court.
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
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Accepting the award for Best Breakfast Restaurant are, in the back row from left, Zeb Holbein, Lisa Hunter, Liam Hunter, Kristin Lanier and Ian Hunter; in the front row from left are Kaycee Boiler, Wendy Nations and Elie Wright of Sunrise Grill.
Thanks for voting us Best of the Best for 2020, and for placing your confidence in us!
We appreciate all our loyal customers and continue to place your safety and satisfaction as our number 1 goal. Special thanks to our outstanding employees!
2015
2017
2016
2018
2019
Accepting the award for Best Auto Salesperson is Chris Toliver of Modern Toyota of Boone.
2020
828.297.1115 • 324 NC Hwy. 105 Bypass, Ste. 2 • Boone, NC 28607
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BEST OF THE BEST
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
2020 Best of the Best of Watauga County
Accepting the award for Best Vegetarian Restaurant are, from left, Chris Morrow, Callie Matthews and Jeremy Calvin of Coyote Kitchen.
Accepting the award for Best Mattress Company is Marc Young of Blackberry Creek Mattress.
Accepting the award for Best Student Housing are, from left, back row: Anthony Moody, Matt Williams, Ethan Turner, Tom Burch, Bill Aceto, Todd Rice, Fred Holtkamp, Nick Mangum, Lisa Andrews, Sandy Howard, Lily Suarez and Courtney Carroll. Left to right, front row: Thomas Martin, Harold Wingate, Diana Perez, Tammy Winters, Timothy Floyd, JoJo Muldoon, Cassandra Clifford, Kianna Harrigan, Michelle Hammond and Tony Floyd of Boone High Country Rentals.
BEST OF THE BEST
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2020 Best of the Best of Watauga County BEST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 37
Pre-School Child Care: Boone United Methodist Pre-School Printing: Precision Print Propane: Wallace Propane Public Servant: Diane Cornett Deal Real Estate Agency: Vincent Properties Real Estate Agent: Chad Vincent Religious Leader: Ray Greene Restaurant Service: The Cardinal Retirement Community: Appalachian Brian Estates Roofing Structural Integration: Allie Burleson Running Store: Hibbett Sports Seafood Restaurant: Makoto’s Second Hand Store: Anna Bananas Shoe/Boot Store: Mo’s Boots Ski Shop: 1st Tracks Ski Slope: Appalachian Ski Mtn. Spa: Westglow Spa Sporting Good Store: Hibbett Sports Sports Bar: The Rock Steakhouse: Peddler Steakhouse Storage Facility: The Webb Company SEE BEST ON PAGE 47
Accepting the award for Best Antique Store is Charlene Headley, owner of Antiques on Howard.
Walter Johnson is given the Best Pre-Arrangement Agent award for his work with Heritage Family Funeral Services.
Thank You!
Thank you for voting us
Best Appliance Repair R&C Appliance Service
Dr. Robert Bridgeman, DDS and the entire Bridgeman Dentistry team would like to thank our patients and loyal supporters for voting us Watauga County’s Best of the Best Dentist in 2020. We are humbled by your recognition!
Robert H. Bridgeman, DDS Craig Bridgeman, DMD
828.297.4579
2348 NC Hwy 105, Suite 1 • Heritage Court • Boone, NC 28607
Serving the High Country for over 40 years.
info@bridgemandental.org
P (828) 264-7272 • F (828) 264-7275
BEST OF THE BEST
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Accepting the award for Best Bakery is Abby Willis of Stick Boy Bread Company.
THANK YOU FOR VOTING ACTION CYCLE SPORTS BEST MOTORCYCLE/ ATV SHOP 2020!
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
Accepting the award for Best Teacher is Meagan Lancaster of Hardin Park School.
Thanks for Voting Us
EVEN TIME WINNER!
Best Indian Restaurant
2349 Old Hwy 421 S | Boone, NC 28607 828.262.1558 | www.actioncyclesports.com
2011
2013
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
We don’t have an off season so stop in and check-out our Winter Sales Specials.
Is this the winter you finally get that snow plow for your ATV? Action Cycle Sports is the Best of the Best for that as well!
Come try our exquisite Indian cuisine. We serve a buffet at lunch or dine in for dinner.
Mint
203 Boone Heights Dr. • Boone, NC (828) 386-1441 • MintNC.com
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
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
BEST OF THE BEST
Mountain Times Publications -
Accepting the award for Best Dentist are, from left, Tara Dyer, Debby Cook, Tammie Spears, Dr. Craig Bridgeman DDS, Helen Cates, Margie Wilcox, Lauren Carlton, Nicole Dollar, Carrie Lush and Dr. Robert Bridgeman DDS of Bridgeman Dentistry.
THANK YOU
FOR ALLOWING US TO SERVE YOU 33 YEARS & VOTING US BEST BISCUIT IN BOONE!
Thanks to all of our customers for voting us
Best of the Best Car Repair and Tire Store!
828-265-4742 | 124 Realty Row | Boone, NC Monday-Friday 8am-5pm
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BEST OF THE BEST
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
2020 Best of the Best of Watauga County
Accepting the award for Best Civic Club are, from left to right and top to bottom, Beau Wilson, John Eckman, Nick Katers, Jennifer Warren, Bob Gates, John Cooper, Lane Robinson, Jerry Moretz, Brian CrutchďŹ eld, David Moses, Mac Forehand, Jim Street, Hanes Boren, Ben Henderson, Nick Friedman, Chuck Mantooth, Haold Tilley, Andy LeBeau, Jesse Lutabinga, Howard Brafman and Diane Ekberg of Boone Sunrise Rotary.
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
BEST OF THE BEST
Mountain Times Publications -
Accepting the award for Best Night Spot are, from left, Gabe Bradshaw, Ari Widis, Joshua Yates, Rhiannon Heiden and Jeremy Champion of Cafe’ PortoďŹ no.
Thank you for voting us
Best Attorney Civil Litigation Land Condemnations Personal Injury Domestic and Family Law Criminal and Traffic Matters Construction Disputes Wrongful Death Business Incorporation and Representation Wills, Estates, and Trusts Real Estate Transactions Estate Planning.
815 West King Street Boone, North Carolina 28607 (828) 264-3601
Voted Best Pest Control Company Providing Premier Pest and Termite Control Services Since 1966
8487 Valley Blvd | Blowing Rock, NC 28605 828.264.4656 | www.a-1pc.com
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BEST OF THE BEST
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
2020 Best of the Best of Watauga County
Accepting the award for Best Non-ProďŹ t is Irene Sawyer of High Country Breast Cancer Foundation.
Accepting the award for Best Pizza Restaurant are Chris Staggs and Pete Shurba of Capone’s Pizza.
Accepting the award for Best Mailing/Shipping Store are owner Christy Gottfried and her Go Postal team, Jessica (design assistant), Zachary (manager), Maryory (shipping), Jason (manager/lead designer). Not pictured are Richard (production lead), Maddie (shipping), Rachel (production assistant).
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2020 Best of the Best of Watauga County BEST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 41
Student Housing: Boone High Country Rentals Surgeon: Dr. Anne-Corrine Beaver Sushi: CoBo Sushi Bistro & Bar Taco: Taquiero El Paso Teacher: Meagan Lancaster Tire Store: Alray Tire Travel Agency: Magic Bound Travel Vegetarian Restaurant: Coyote Kitchen Veterinarian: Dr. Howard Johnson Vietnamese Restaurant: Saebing Boone King Wedding Dress Store: South’s Specialty Clothiers Wedding Rentals: Boone Rent-All Wedding Venue: Chetola Resort Window or Door Store: Lowe’s Home Improvement Windshield Repair: Appalachian Auto Glass Wine and Beer: Peabody’s Winery: Grandfather Winery Womens Boutique: Lililu on King Yoga Studio: Neighborhood Yoga Yoga Teacher: Briana Kidd
Accepting award for Best Greek Restaurant are, from left, Chris Varipapa, Scott Williford, Charlie Chakales and Seth Sullivan of Lily’s Snack Bar.
Thanks for Voting us
Watauga County, thanks for voting us
Best of the Best in Flooring!!
Thank you for voting us Best Night Spot 6 years in a row!
Best of the Best! OPEN: Monday-Friday: 7:30am-5:30pm Saturday: 8:00am-1:30pm Closed Sunday
Midway Carpet & Tile 288 Leon Coffey Road Blowing Rock, NC 28605 828.295.6999
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!
828.264.4777 701 NC-105 Extension Boone, NC 28607
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BEST OF THE BEST
Over 12 Years in Business!
Wednesday, December 16, 2020