2016 Readers Choice by Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

FAIRBANKS, ALASKA

TUESDAY, JULY 26, 2016

The best of

FA I R B A N K S

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

2016 READERS CHOICE

About the 2016 Readers Choice awards

t’s so much fun to go into a store or restaurant in Fairbanks and North Pole and see the Readers Choice certificates on the wall and know those are endorsements from actual customers. Voter turnout for the 2016 Fairbanks Daily News-Miner Readers Choice Awards was impressive. Thousands of readers logged on to choose the best of the best in Fairbanks in a wide array of categories: dining, entertainment, shopping, sporting events, personal and medical services, education and many

more. We expanded the categories a bit this year, including best microbrewery/distillery, best food truck and best snowmachine/motorcycle/ATV dealer. Keep reading to see the results. Fairbanks and North Pole have such a large and diverse collection of businesses and it’s wonderful to scan the lists and see an old favorite or find out about a new business. We tried to make the choices in each category as

comprehensive as possible, but if we left anyone out, please let us know so we can include it next year. Let us know any new categories you’d like to see next year as well. These Readers Choice Awards aren’t possible without you, the readers. Thank you for participating and congratulations to all the winners! Julie Stricker Online Content Director Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Your top picks for 2016

Asian Fusion

Thai Food

Breakfast

Chinese Food

Vietnamese Food

Brunch

Japanese Food

BBQ/Ribs

Cups of coffee

Korean Food

Bloody Marys

Desserts

1. Fushimi Japanese Fusion 2. Lin’s Asian Bistro 3. Asiana 1. Pagoda 2. Bamboo Panda 3. Panda Garden 1. Shogun 2. Ajimi 3. Irashai

1. Seoul Gate 2. Jung Korean 3. Aha Oriental Kitchen

1. Thai House 2. Lemongrass Thai Cuisine 3. Bahn Thai 1. Pho House 2. Little Saigon 3. Lihn’s Vietnamese at Farmers Market 1. Big Daddy’s BBQ 2. Bad-2-da Bone 3. Ivory Jack’s 1. Oasis 2. Pump House 3. Silver Gulch

1. Cookie Jar Restaurant 2. Sam’s Sourdough Cafe 3. Oasis 1. The Pump House 2. Pike’s Landing 3. Cookie Jar Restaurant 1. Alaska Coffee Roasting Company 2. Sunrise Bagel & Espresso 3. Mocha Dan’s 1. Wolf Run

PICKS »3

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

2016 READERS CHOICE

PICKS

Continued from 2 2. Jo’s Oven 3. Hot Licks

Thank You

2. C&J Drive In 3. Carl’s Jr.

voting us your your to our customers for voting

Fine Dining

ve We ha H FRES les b Vegeta rries e and B son! in Sea

1. Lavelle’s Bistro 2. The Turtle Club 3. Bobby’s Downtown

Fast Food

• Bedding Plants • Gardening Supplies • Onion Sets • Houseplants • Seeds Fertilizers • SSeed eed P Potatoes • Soil & F ertilizers

Ann’s Greenhouses 479-6921 3.5 Mile Sheep Creek Rd.

F11508937

We love what we do and appreciate the support of our community.

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PICKS » 5

1. Bruegger’s Bagels

FAVORITE GARDEN CENTER CENTER

Thank you, Fairbanks, Once Again for making us F12509031

Thank You Fairbanks!

#1 Best BBQ/Ribs 2016 Readers Choice Award!

Join us on Tuesday for the $1 Rib • Wild Wing Wednesday $1.25

107 Wickersham Street • 452-2501

THANK YOU, FAIRBANKS! Mary Angel

Catherine“Cathy”Donaldson Claire Keel

Stephanie“Jill”Myhill

Assistant Vice President Sr. Mortgage Loan Originator

Sr. Mortgage Loan Originator

NMLS #204108

(907) 374-5489 maryjaneangel.net

NMLS #206762

NMLS #203692

(907) 374-5451 cathydonaldson.com

(907) 374-5486 clairekeel.com

Sr. Mortgage Loan Originator

NMLS #203078

(907) 374-5418 jillmyhill.com

License #AK157293

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For choosing us.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

2016 READERS CHOICE

Lavelle’s Bistro is on top of the restaurant game By Gary Black GBLACK@NEWSMINER.COM

When it comes to the best of where to dine in Fairbanks, Lavelle’s Bistro is clearly at the top of the list. The popular dining establishment took a whopping six categories in the 2016 Readers Choice awards, including first place in the categories of fine dining, restaurant service, restaurants and best steak. Bar manager Larry Lowery won best bartender, and Sharif Nero took home first in the category of best waiter/waitress. The awards are testament to the quality and service the restaurant provides as one of Fairbanks’ most noted dining establishments. Kathy Lavelle and Frank Eagle opened the restaurant 15 years ago and have watched it grow into one of the most popular spots in Fairbanks,

The menu’s special items change daily according to what’s available, which is a growing trend among Fairbanks restaurants. But food isn’t all it’s known for. A selection of desserts, dessert wines and a good selection of port rounds out the menu. The wine selection at Lavelle’s is one of the largest in Fairbanks, with vintages ranging from the glass to by the bottle. Wine Spectator magazine has awarded Lavelle’s several honors in recent years for its outstanding selection of wines. The cocktails are notable as well, including the lemon basil martini and the Thai martini, which Lowery created. The restaurant also offers a latenight menu on weekends that offer a sampling of lighter fare for night owls taking in downtown.

Atmosphere-wise, Lavelle’s is more metropolitan than Alaska lodge, reminiscent of a dining experience you would find in any city in the Lower 48. The open-concept kitchen allows you to watch chefs put their culinary skills to work within sight of your table. In the summer months, the bistro opens its patio seating on Second Avenue so diners can take in fine food under sunny skies while visitors stroll on the street. Lavelle’s, 575 First Ave. in the Springhill Suites Marriott, is open everyday from 4:30 to 10 p.m. with its late-night menu offered from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Reservations are not required but are recommended and can be made by calling 450-0555. Contact Features Editor Gary Black at 459-7504 or on Twitter: @FDNMfeatures.

Dear Fairbanks,

Thank you for being awesome.

Sincerely, HooDoo Brewing Co.

Fresh. Well-made. Brewed in the heart of Alaska. HooDoo Brewing Co. • HooDooBrew.com

#HooDooLovesYou

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whether for birthdays, anniversary dinners, date nights, or just an exemplary meal. The regular menu features items the restaurant has become known for, such as its baked brie and mini rack of lamb, as well as its chili-rubbed ahi tuna and honey Sriracha shrimp. The black and blue salad, served with sliced flat iron steak, and the warm red cabbage salad are hits of the house, as well. The oven-roasted duck, honey apple halibut, and pork chop and salmon dishes are staples. Although Lavelle’s has a regular menu offered year-round, the restaurant also takes advantage of seasonal items available from local farmers markets and across the state, including fresh selections of Alaska seafood, such as a macadamia nut-encrusted rockfish served with jasmine rice and red curry.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

2016 READERS CHOICE

PICKS

2. Mayan Palace 3. Pump House

Continued from 3

Mexican Food

1. Taco Azteca/Mayan Palace 2. Miguel’s 3. Gallo’s Mexican

Food Truck

1. Frostbite Foods 2. Zorba’s on the Run 3. Wagner’s Pizza Bus

Pizza

1. College Town Pizzeria 2. Geraldo’s Italian 3. Great Alaska Pizza Co.

Hamburgers 1. Brewster’s 2. Monderosa 3. Food Factory

Prime Rib

1. The Turtle Club 2. Lavelle’s Bistro 3. The Pump House

Healthy Dining

Italian Food

1. Geraldo’s Italian 2. Gambardella’s 3. The Vallata

Ice Cream/Milkshakes 1. Hot Licks 2. Cold Stone Creamery 3. C&J Drive-In

Restaurant Service 1. Lavelle’s Bistro 2. Pagoda Restaurant 3. The Turtle Club

Margarita

PICKS » 6

1. Gallo’s Mexican

Restaurant & Pizzeria

airb a anks, Alask

AND TOP AWARDS EVERY YEAR-

2012:#1 Burgers • 2011:#1 Burgers, #1 Steaks • 2010: #1 Burgers, #1 Steaks • 2009: #1 Burgers • 2008: #1 Burgers, #1 Steaks, #2 BBQ Ribs • 2007: #1 Burgers, #2 Steaks • 2006 • #1 Burgers • 2004: #1 Burgers, #1 Fries • 2003: #1 Burgers, #1 Fries 2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007

2006

2004

2003

2015

Geraldo’s was in “Pizza Magazine”as one of the Top 100 Italian Pizzerias in the country!

13 YEARS! BEST BURGER IN TOWN!

Great Italian Cuisine

Best Italian Food 2016

THANK YOU, FAIRBANKS!

I TA

L I AN

BREWSTER’S F11508929

701 College Road • 452-2299 Pick-up • Dine in www.geraldos.com

TWO LOCATIONS

“GREAT FOOD, GREAT ALASKAN SPIRITS”

354 Old Steese • Northgate Square • 374-9663 3578 Airport Way • Teddy Bear Plaza • 456-2538

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1. Lunch Cafe 2. Great Harvest Bread Co. 3. Chowder House

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

2016 READERS CHOICE

Salad Bar

Seafood

Continued from 5

1. The Turtle Club 2. Cafe at Fairbanks Memorial Hospital 3. Fred Meyer

Restaurant

Sandwiches

Steak

1. The Chowder House 2. Great Harvest Bread Co. 3. Speedy Sub

Thank You, Fairbanks,

PICKS » 8

Expressions in Glass

for making us your #1 law firm. We have appreciated your support for over 50 years!

Thanks for voting us Best Art Gallery! F13512848

714 Fourth Avenue, Suite 200 Fairbanks, Alaska 99701-0810

1. Lavelle’s Bistro 2. The Vallata

www.expressionsinglass.net • (907)474-3923 • 1922 Peger Road

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1. Lavelle’s Bistro 2. The Turtle Club 3. Pagoda Restaurant

1. Turtle Club 2. The Pump House 3. Lavelle’s Bistro

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PICKS

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

2016 READERS CHOICE

Fairbanks mainstay Gulliver’s voted best bookstore By Weston Morrow WMORROW@NEWSMINER.COM

Readers voted Gulliver’s Books the best bookstore in Fairbanks, continuing the store’s long tradition of pleasing its customers. The store has been a Fairbanks staple since the 1980s. In 2015, the store celebrated its 30th year of operation during its third year under new ownership. Christy and Bryan Wiskeman purchased the store from Dave Hollingsworth in 2012. The couple, going on their fourth year operating Gulliver’s, said they were inspired to take over the store after years as loyal customers themselves. The store routinely partners with local organizations such as the Literacy Council and tries to provide opportunities for Alaska authors and artists to promote their work, and not just the well-known writers. “We’ve had both high school artists do shows here as well as elementary schools,” Bryan said. The couple said promoting Alaska authors and works is one of their passions when it comes to the

bookstore. “We’re incredibly proud of our Alaska collection,” Christy said. “That’s really, really important to us is maintaining that.” They must make important decisions about each time they place an order about what books to buy. Unlike much larger national chain bookstores, that have more physical space and purchasing power, they must think carefully about each book put on the shelves. “It is definitely difficult because there are millions of books out there, and we only have so much shelf space,” Bryan said. “So to some extent you’re making an educated guess as far as what to carry.” Gulliver’s creates a welcoming environment for customers to browse the new and used bookshelves, have a coffee in the Second Story Café or just to chat. A big part of that welcoming environment comes through in the people who work at Gulliver’s. “We’re a team. It takes the whole team to make this place run, and so we work together as a team, and we figure out where different people fit within the scheme of that team, and I think that helps

people feel comfortable,” Christy said. “They have a place here. It’s not just a job where they’re punching a time clock. There are things that they’re responsible for and they can take pride in. I think in some ways we become a bit of an extended family.” Christy and Bryan credit much of the store’s success to the community. “It’s becoming obvious we’re entering a very rough time in the state economy and in Fairbanks even more so,” Bryan said. “So I would just encourage everybody to support their neighbors and friends and local businesses and nonprofits ... it doesn’t have to be a horrible experience. It can actually draw us closer together hopefully.” Gulliver’s is located at 3525 College Road in Fairbanks. It can be reached at 474-9574 or 1-800390-8999. The store is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. It can be found online at www. shopgulliversbooks.com. Contact staff writer Weston Morrow at 459-7520. Follow him on Twitter: @FDNMschools.

A resounding

Thank You

for once again voting us First Place Best Jewelry Store in Fairbanks!

456-8369 F11508931

Corner of Airport Way & University Ave. Fairbanks, Alaska 99709

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“For jewelry as fine as you are”

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

2016 READERS CHOICE

PICKS

Bartender

Continued from 6

1. Larry Lowery at Lavelle’s Bistro

3. Pump House

Waiter/waitress

Microbrewery/Distillery

1. HooDoo Brewing Co 2. Silver Gulch Brewing & Bottling Company 3. 49th State Brewing Co.

1. Sharif Nero at Lavelle’s Bistro

Live Production /Shows of 2015-16

1. North Star Ballet, “The Nutcracker” 2. Fairbanks Concert Association’s Postmodern Jukebox 3. Fairbanks Drama Association, “The Buddy Holly Story”

Local Sporting Event

1. Ice Dogs playoffs 2. Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race 3. Governor’s Cup: UAF Hockey PICKS » 14

Andrew Wappett, DMD | Elle Kimberly Lovejoy, DDS Chef/Owner Miguel has been cooking ov er 30 years In Fairban ks!

We appreciate the conﬁdence expressed by our patients and strive to earn that trust every single day.

for voting us a Fairbanks Favorite

On Airport Way • Shopper’s Forum Annex

374-8399

F11508935

F13508849

Thank you

A L

N CY

(907) 456-8100 | wappettdental.com | 607 Old Steese Hwy. Suite C, Fairbanks, AK 99701

E EST ATE AG

Thank You, Interior Alaska for consistently voting us a top choice for Real Estate Agency/ Realtor!

456-SOLD(7653)

711 Gaffney Road, #100, North Pole • 2957 Santa Patricia Court, Fairbanks

www.somersandassociates.net

F57508854

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

Enjoy an occasion of fine dining in a cozy, rustic atmosphere.

IM E RI B

SE A F O OD

L AD BAR

Greta Lindley, Owner

PRIME RIB, GIANT PRAWNS & KING CRAB

SPOT

FOR HEALTHY PETS

377 HELMERICKS AVENUE FAIRBANKS, ALASKA (907) 457-8555

2098 Old Steese Hwy. • Fairbanks, Alaska 99712

457-3883

Australian Lobster Tail & Halibut

(Dinners Include Salad Bar)

Enjoy our non/smoking establishment • Open 7 Days A Week FREE WI-FI • www.alaskanturtle.com FOR RESERVATIONS F40508950

COLD

Also Serving

Featuring Our Famous

Mon-Sat 6-10pm Sun 5-9pm

F12508800

Thank You, Fairbanks!

907-456-7760 • 116 Minnie Street • Fairbanks, AK 99701

F13508825

Thank you for voting us as the Best Eye Clinic and voting Dr. Damien Delzer as one of the Best Eye Care Professionals.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

2016 READERS CHOICE

Gulliver’s Bookstore took first place in the best bookstore category.

Always a favorite!

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

ERIC ENGMAN/NEWS-MINER

From Dr. Dirk Menard and his staff: “Thank You Fairbanks!”

We Deliver

ASIAN BISTRO linsasianbistrofairbanks.com 1900 Airport Way (next to McDonalds) 479-8866

F11508930

Thank You for your Votes! “Asian Fusion Category”

nanookdental.com

F11508938

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

THANK YOU!

Take a Scenic Drive to the Beautiful Goldstream Valley and Experience Our Warm Hospitality Enjoy our ExcEllEnt StEakS, SEafood, ItalIan and amErIcan dInnErS and nEw york StylE PIzzaS!

For voting us Best Credit Union in Fairbanks.

Reservations Recommended

455-6600

call: Hours: tuesday - Sunday 5:30 - 10:30pm lounge: 5:30 - closing closed mondays 2190 Goldstream Road Fairbanks, AK 99709

We appreciate Your votes!

ITA

Thank you, Fairbanks!

LIAN F

Federally insured by NCUA

F40508951

AKS

F12509030

Pizza and EntrEEs availablE for takE-out!

Thank You!

Thank you, Fairbanks, for voting us …

We appreciate your support of our locally owned business!

Best Eye Care Clinic

Dr. Michael Mavencamp & Dr. Barbara Keys

4169 Geist Road • 479-4700 akwestvalleyvision.com

907-488-6973 | 981 Risse Rd | www.rissegreenhouse.com

F11508955

Favorite Optometrists

2nd for

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2nd & 3rd for

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

2016 READERS CHOICE

The cast of “Clue, The Musical” is seen in January in Salisbury Theatre at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Fairbanks Light Opera Theatre took first place as the best theater troupe in Fairbanks. ERIC ENGMAN/NEWS-MINER/FILE PHOTO

BRING THIS AD IN FOR 10% OFF 2016 Reader’s Choice FIRST PLACE ANTIQUE STORE

Blue Door Antiques

Thank you, Fairbanks, for voting AJIMI among your favorite Japanese Restaurants.

We are proud to serve you. F13508851

Thank you for your vote!

AN ITEM $20 OR MORE

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

2016 READERS CHOICE

Joan Stepovich voted best interior designer By Kevin Baird KBAIRD@NEWSMINER.COM

For 30 years, Joan Stepovich has been designing residential and commercial interiors, and her friends will tell you it’s because she has the ability to make her clients feel special while making their homes look great. “I guess it just comes from experience,” Stepovich said. Stepovich’s career began when she attended the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in San Francisco. Since then, she has owned a couple interior-design businesses in Anchorage and Fairbanks. Many people in Fairbanks may know Stepovich from previous business ventures such as Design Input, which she ran from her home while she raised her children, and more recently White Palms Furniture and Design and her art gallery that occupied the same space, which she sold last year. Today, Stepovich runs Stage and Design Fairbanks out of her home. “Now that I’ve sold White Palms I have more time to go out and do (interior design) consultations,” Stepovich said. “We can pretty much do everything to orchestrate their dreams to make them come true.” Stepovich said she’ll do “whatever Fairbanks needs,” including, color, space design, knocking down walls, flooring, paintings, lighting, window treatments, kitchens, bathrooms and furniture. “We have a strong background in construction. No job is too big or too small. I’ll help from beginning to end,” Stepovich said. “Most of the time it’s telling people to get rid of all the little things. They buy more things and never throw anything out. You need someone with a clean eye to suggest this and this and this.” Stepovich also has a flair for the tropical. “Living in these Fairbanks winters that were dark and cold I needed to

Joan Stepovich’s career began when she attended the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in San Francisco. Since then, she has owned a couple interior-design businesses in Anchorage and Fairbanks. Many people in Fairbanks may know Stepovich from previous business ventures such as Design Input, which she ran from her home while she raised her children, and more recently White Palms Furniture and Design. create an oasis that I could live in, and then I wanted to share that with other people,” she said. While operating White Palms, Stepovich acquired tropical housewares, art, and imported teak-wood furniture from Bali. With inventory left over from her showroom, Stepovich still incorporates the tropical motif into her designs. “People wanted real wood, real products. People were wanting color. They were wanting that oasis in their own home. People did go pretty crazy over the furniture. I needed to bring something unique to Fairbanks,” Stepovich said. “I still have a lot of inventory left over from my White Palms furniture store, and I’m always willing to go and get more custom-designed furniture.” To learn more about Stepovich’s work visit stageanddesignfairbanks. com

We vote Fairbanks

BEST COMMUNITY!

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

2016 READERS CHOICE

PICKS

Continued from 8

Local Sports Teams

1. West Valley High School Wolfpack 2. Fairbanks Ice Dogs 3. Alaska Nanooks Hockey

Place for Dancing

Theater/Performance

PICKS » 17

Shannon K Fortune, Agent Jim Kelly Insurance Agency Inc Tammera L Randolph Ins Agy Inc Kris Thoma, Agent Tammy Randolph, Agent 324 Old Steese Highway 1716 University Avenue Jim Kelly, Agent 450 S Santa Claus Lane Fairbanks, AK 99701 Fairbanks, AK 99709 1401 Turner Street North Pole, AK 99705 Bus: 907-452-1385 Bus: 907-328-9022 Fairbanks, AK 99701 shannon.fortune.k2px@statefarm.com Bus: 907-488-7082 kris.thoma.p4kq@statefarm.com Bus: 907-457-3276

Dick Randolph Ins Agcy Inc Dick Randolph, Agent 610 12th Avenue Fairbanks, AK 99701 Bus: 907-456-7787

F17508769

statefarm.com®

Matthew Raymond, Agent Ed F Randolph, Agent 3875 Geist Road Ste C 1007 Aurora Dr. Ste. A Fairbanks , AK 99709 Fairbanks, AK 99709 Bus: 907-452-6015 Bus: 907-452-1861 ed.randolph.b9oc@statefarm.com matthew.raymond.dr1e@statefarm.com

F18508843

Thank you Fairbanks It’s about people. Subaru ı Toyota ı Honda

Thank You, Fairbanks! F12509028

Family Owned since 1997

Automotive Service & Repair

www.MetropolitanGarage.com

F18508755

We all feel the same commitment to care for our families. Helping you meet your insurance needs is part of my commitment to you. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there® CONTACT AN AGENT TODAY.

1. Fairbanks Light Opera Theatre 2. North Star Ballet 3. Fairbanks Drama Association

1. Riverboat Discovery 2. Chena Hot Springs Resort 3. UA Museum of the North

Family is why we do it all.

Company of 2015-16

Place to Bring Tourists

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

2016 READERS CHOICE

Frostbite Foods wins new food truck category By Sam Friedman SFRIEDMAN@NEWSMINER.COM

Food truck is a new category in the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner Readers Choice Awards this year, inspired by a sudden growth in mobile restaurants over the last two years in Fairbanks. For 2016, first place went to Frostbite Foods, a black matte delivery-style truck permanently parked near Third Street on the Old Steese Highway. The business makes about 20 menu items, including hamburgers, fish tacos and homemade salsa. Husband and wife team Marshal James and Monique Love started Frostbite Foods — originally called Frostbite Farms — in May 2014 as a plant start and salsa stand at the Tanana Valley Farmers Market. The business has grown rapidly from a food stand to a food truck to its current form as a hybrid food truck-storefront business. James and Love continue to cook out of the food truck as they remodel the old Paparazzi tuxedo store into a space for seating, bathrooms and salsa production. The business now employs three full-time and four parttime staff members and is open five days per week. Their rapid growth has surprised the business’ founders. Standing outside the business last week, James attributed the growth to the business’ food and its strong social media followFrostbite Foods took home first place the favorite food truck category. ERIC ENGMAN/NEWS-MINER

Hibachi Japanese Steakhouse

Thank you for voting us the #1 Japanese Restaurant!

tJ Bes

ran t

FROSTBITE » 28

anese Restau

Open 7 Days A Week Mon.-Thurs. 11:00am-10:00pm Friday 11:00am-11:00pm Saturday Noon-11:00pm Sunday Noon-9:00pm

4005 Geist Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99709

907-328-3222

Wine & Beer • Birthday Parties

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

Thanks for your votes!

Chris Marok 907-452-5664

But even more, thanks to the Fairbanks dancers, volunteers, and supporters who’ve made holiday magic since 1986

The

Nutcracker

59 College Rd., Ste. 205 Fairbanks, AK 99701 chrismarok@allstate.com

North Star Ballet Courtland Weaver, Artistic Director

Sponsored by

Stroecker Foundation

R A N E AGE C

Photo by Paul McCarthy

Thank you Fairbanks for placing your trust in my office for back-to-back years. I appreciate the award and am looking forward to helping my fellow Alaskans with their insurance needs now and in the future!

R A N E AGE C

F13508783

Open Auditions for Children’s Roles (age 8+): 2 pm Sept 11 Supported by the Alaska State Council on the Arts and Fairbanks Bed-tax Funds

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One weekend only! December 2-4, 2016

Thank You

to all our customers! Your #1 Votes helped us place...

B es

t Gift Sh op

Best Gift Shop

488-3014 • 6565 Richardson Hwy., Salcha, Alaska www.alaskaknottyshop.com

F13508852

We truly appreciate your business over the years!

F18508754

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

PICKS

3. Campus Creations

Continued from 14

2. Happy Nails 3. Allure

Hair Salon/Stylist

1. The Blue Loon 2. Howling Dog 3. Kodiak Jack’s

Personal Trainer

1. Elements 2. Charlotte Rouge 3. Team Cutters

Barber shop/Barber

1. Tina Ferringer, F&H Fitness 2. Michael Flannigan, 40 Below Fitness 3. Christian Hood, Anytime Fitness

Nail Salon

1. Alaska Barber Shop 2. Hot Headz

1. U.S. Nails

PICKS » 20

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S Teacher Teacher | PrincipalPrincipal | SchoolSchool | Sports Team

The school district congratulates all of the winners in this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards. Amy Brown first Teacher

A Fine Art Gallery

Hutchison High School

Featuring a variety of art from more than 20 local artists Mon-Sat 10-6 Sundays 10-4

F18508973

535 2nd Avenue, Suite 102 907-455-4070, 2streetgallery.com

School Sports Team

first (tied) second third

West Valley High School Lathrop High

first

West Valley High School

Dana Evans

Barnette Magnet School

West Valley Wolf Pack

k 1 2 n o r t h s t a r. o r g

Notice of Nondiscrimination: The Fairbanks North Star Borough Borough School District is an equal employment and educational opportunity institution.

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Principal

Shaun Kraska

60 College Rd. • 455-9225 • GallosAK.com

MARGAR

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IT A

X I CA N

IT A

XI CA N

X I CA N

S BE

S BE T

Proudly serving the #1 Margarita in Fairbanks!

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

Northern Power Sports won the category of best sports snowmachine/motorcycle/ATV and UTV dealer in Fairbanks.

ERIC ENGMAN/NEWS-MINER

Thank you for your votes Fairbanks!

305 Eagle Ave.

452-2459

Expanded Ser vice 6 chairs - less waiting

Open 7 Days a Week

We’d like to thank our #1 clients for making us #1. THANK YOU FAIRBANKS

F13508788

#1 Barbershop

DINE IN / TAKE OUT / CATERING

(907) 456-2200 • 388 Old Chena Pump Road MENU: www.LemongrassAlaska.com LUNCH 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. • DINNER 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.

F12509000

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

The Binkley

Family and the Riverboat Discovery would like to thank you, Fairbanks, for voting us the

Best Place to Bring Tourists and for voting

Steamboat Landing

the

Best Gift Shop

Gold Dredge 8

F18508878

For tour information or reservations 479-6673 â&#x20AC;˘ reservations@riverboatdiscovery.com www.riverboatdiscovery.com www.golddredge8.com 1-866-479-6673

Fairbanksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Premier Attractions

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

2016 READERS CHOICE

PICKS

Liquor Store

Continued from 17

1. Brown Jug 2. Gavora’s Fine Wine 3. Fred Meyer liquor store

Tanning Salon 1. Touch of Sun 2. Tans & Teas 3. Turbo Tans

Pet Supplies Store 1. Cold Spot Feeds 2. Alaska Feed Company 3. Petco

Tattoo/Body Piercing 1. Sublime Line Tattoo Studio 2. Body Piercing Unlimited 3. Patina Tattoo Parlor

Sporting Goods Store 1. REI 2. Beaver Sports 3. Play It Again Sports

Antique Shop 1. Blue Door Antiques 2. Roxy’s Secondhand 3. Airport Road Antiques

Art Gallery

1. Expressions in Glass 2. Well Street Art Gallery 3. 2 Street Gallery

Book Store

1. Gulliver’s Books 2. Barnes & Noble 3. Forget Me Not

Cashier/Clerk 1. Robin at FMH Cafe

Florist 1. Safeway Floral Department 2. College Floral 3. Santina’s Flowers & Gifts

3. Value Village

Tools/Hardware Store Furniture Store

1. Sadler’s Home Furnishings 2. Bailey’s Furniture 3. House of Kustom

Gift Shop

1. Steamboat Landing at Riverboat Discovery 2. If Only … A Fine Store 3. Knotty Shop

Jewelry Store

1. Taylor’s Gold-N-Stones 2. Gold Rush Fine Jewelers 3. Bishop’s Jewelry

Ladies Clothing Boutique 1. Fireweed Consignment 2. In My Element

1. Samson True Value Hardware 2. Lowe’s 3. Home Depot

Snowmachine/motorcycle/ ATV /UTV dealer 1. Northern Power Sports 2. Compeau’s 3. The Outpost

New Car Company

1. Kendall Auto 2. Seekins Ford Lincoln 3. Chevrolet Buick GMC of Fairbanks

Used Car Companies 1. Affordable Used Cars PICKS » 26

Thank You! We appreciate your votes!! Thank You Fairbanks! This is Your Race and You OWN IT!

2233 S. Cushman St. • 456-6869

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v Spor ting E

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Local Sporting Event

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

2016 READERS CHOICE

Satterberg named best attorney By Dorothy Chomicz DCHOMICZ@NEWSMINER.COM

William Satterberg may be best known as a criminal defense attorney, but he’s handled just about every type of case you could think of in the course of his nearly 40-year career. Satterberg, voted the best attorney in Fairbanks in this year’s Readers Choice awards, was born in Washington state but moved with his family to Alaska when he was 8 years old. After graduating from West High School in Anchorage, Satterberg earned a political science degree at the University of Alaska Fairbanks before earning his law degree at Syracuse Law School. Satterberg returned to Fairbanks in 1976 and spent 41/2 years with the attorney general’s office doing condemnation and construction law before getting a job offer in Saipan. After a year doing eminent domain and construc-

William Satterberg, voted the favorite attorney in Fairbanks in this year’s Readers Choice awards, was born in Washington state but moved with his family to Alaska when he was 8 years old. tion litigation there, he returned to Fairbanks and went to work with the Birch Horton Bittner law firm. It was then Satterberg got his first taste of criminal defense work and discovered “you get a hell of a lot more trial time doing criminal defense than you do civil litigation.” Hooked on the excitement, and feeling as if he didn’t fit in at a big firm, Satterberg left after a year to open his own firm.

Thank you Fairbanks

Thank you, Fairbanks, for voting Hot Licks your favorite for ice cream/milkshakes!

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For voTing us #1

Since then his reputation has grown and he’s become known as one of the top attorneys in town, as evidenced by his recent win. Still, while Satterberg does a significant number of high profile criminal defense cases, he still does civil cases in Fairbanks as well as Saipan. Satteberg said it was nice being named Fairbanks’ best attorney. “It’s better than saying I’m the worst,” Satterberg said with his characteristic blend of flippant good humor. Satterberg has expanded his office to include attorneys Thomas Temple and Amy Welsh and has a staff of paralegals and office assistants whom he credits with helping him get to where he is now. “To tell you the truth, if it weren’t for the folks that I work with, I wouldn’t be as lucky as I have to do as well as I’ve done,” Satterberg said. Contact staff writer Dorothy Chomicz at 459-7582. Follow her on Twitter: @FDNMCrime.

1980 Van Horn Rd. | www.northernpowersports.com | 452-2762

BAMBOO PANDA

DELICIOUS CHINESE FOOD EAT IN • TAKE OUT

Thanks for Voting us your Favorite! 1235 Airport Way, Suite #3 Fairbanks, AK 99701 458-8885 / 458-8886 • www.BambooPandaFairbanks.com

3453 College Road near UAF Mon-Sat 12:00 to 11:00 p.m. & Sun Noon to 10:00 p.m. (907) 479-7813 • www.hotlicks.net

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Chinese Food

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

Thank you, Fairbanks! for voting Madden Real Estate #1

Wes Madden and for voting Wes WesMadden.com (907) 452-3000 | Fairbanks/North Pole (907) 770-8500 | Anchorage/Mat Su Valley

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Realtor #1

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

2016 READERS CHOICE

Thank you, Fairbanks, for trusting me with all of your Real Estate needs!!

THANK YOU FAIRBANKS!!!!

Kelli Powers

For voting GRACE MINDER, "BEST REALTOR®" Readers' Choice Award!!

Associate Broker REALTOR® F57508801

Thank you for your business and trust! May God Bless each of You!

COURTESY STEPHANIE EHLENFELDT

GOLD RUSH

Specialists in Residential & Commercial Real Estate

322-1998

kellipowers@gmail.com www.kellipowers.com

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Stephanie Ehlenfeldt at Life Rhythms Healing Arts was named the city’s best massage therapist.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

PEOPLE FIRST We are a community hospital. And we are not for profit. Which makes what we focus on all the easier. Our mission is to continually improve health care for the people in Alaskaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interior. That was our mission 44 years ago, and that hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t changed.

Please share your experience with us, and let us know how we are doing. FMHcommunity.feedback@bannerhealth.com

Nathan Spangler | Porter Heart & Vascular Center

fmhdc.com F40508499

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

Thank you Fairbanks aring e H d n a l h t r o Staff of N

For Voting us Number One!

#1 Hearing Aid Provider for Interior Alaska

www.northlandhearing.com

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451-4327 | 29 College Road, #6

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

2016 READERS CHOICE

PICKS

Continued from 20 2. Kendall Auto 3. Seekins Ford Lincoln

Law Offices

1. CSG, Inc 2. Downes, Tallerico & Schwalm 3. Law Offices of William R. Satterberg

Attorney/Lawyer 1. William Satterberg 2. Amy Tallerico 3. John Burns

Automotive Service and Repairs

1. Metropolitan Garage 2. Chaz Limited Collision Express 3. Seekins Ford Lincoln

Bank/Credit Union

3. Robinson & Associates

1. Alaska USA Federal Credit Union 2. Wells Fargo 3. Denali State Bank

Heating Fuel Delivery Company 1. Sourdough Fuel 2. Alaska Fuel Distributors 3. Alaska Aerofuel

Car Wash

1. Splash N Dash East 2. Splash N Dash West 3. University Laser Car Wash

Home Builder

1. Straight Ahead Construction 2. Big Street Construction 3. TS Construction

Cleaning Service/Commercial 1. ServiceMaster/Merry Maids 2. SparkClean Janitorial 3. K-Janitorial

Insurance Company 1. Allstate Insurance 2. State Farm Insurance 3. USAA

Cleaning Service /Residential 1. Maids Dew It All 2. OCD Cleaning Service 3. ServiceMaster/Merry Maids

Insurance Agent

1. Chris Marok, Allstate Insurance 2. Dick Randolph, State Farm Insurance 3. Jim Matherly, Allstate Insurance

Financial Planner

1. Bobby Weaver 2. Jose Luis Martinez II — Edward Jones

PICKS » 28

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VE TERI ARIAN N

Thank you again to the best Pet Owners in the Interior! 425 Harold Bentley Ave • Fairbanks, AK 99701

907-452-6104 www.mmahak.com

324 2nd Street, Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) 451-8810

Dr. Dr. Dr. Dr.

Bacon Chen DeLeon Flamme

Dr. Dr. Dr. Dr.

Kuhn Nevill Warner Wood

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Pizza in Fairbanks!

Thank you Fairbanks!

years and Counting!

The Only Ten Year Consec utive Pizzeria Winner in Fairban ks!

457 -22 00

ctownpizza.com 3535 College Road Fairbanks, AK

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#11

college

town

2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

2016 READERS CHOICE

PICKS

Continued from 26

Interior Designer

1. Joan Stepovich, Stage and Design Fairbanks 2. Tamara Spaulding, Spaulding Interiors 3. Rebekah Gray, Studio 3Twelve

Mortgage Broker /Company

3. Ann’s Greenhouse

1. Alaska USA Mortgage 2. Mt. McKinley Bank 3. Denali State Bank

1. Madden Real Estate 2. Somers & Associates 3. Re/Max Associates of Fairbanks

Bank Customer Service/Bank

Real estate agent

1. Betsy Campbell, Denali State Bank

Nonprofit Landscaping Company Organization 1. Labrenz Landscaping 2. Great Northwest, Inc. 3. Down to Earth Landscaping

Mobile Service Provider 1. AT&T 2. GCI 3. Verizon

FROSTBITE

Continued from 15 ing. The business boasts 3,300 fans on Facebook. The business also had the advantage of opening before the most recent proliferation of food trucks, he said. “When you’re just one step ahead of the curve you benefit from that explosion of growth,” James said. “We were one summer ahead of that curve. We

1. Fairbanks Animal Shelter Fund 2. Fairbanks Community Food Bank 3. United Way of the Tanana Valley

Nursery /Garden Center

Real Estate Company

1. Wes Madden 2. Grace Minder 3. Kelli Powers

School

1. Spruce Tree Montessori 2. West Valley High School 3. Lathrop High School

Principal/School

1. Holm Town Nursery 2. Risse Greenhouse

1. (tie) Shaun Kraska — West Valley High School 1. Dana Evans — Barnette Magnet School

hit it before it (having a food truck) became that thing to do. Now I get an offer a week of somebody wanting to buy the truck.” For the record, James said he would consider the selling the truck only if can find a taller one to buy. He’s 6 feet tall and can feel cramped in the current truck. Love and James got into the salsa business because they grew a wealth of tomatoes and peppers their first year. They’re no longer called Frost-

bite Farms because they got out of the growing business this year due to the time demands of the rest of the business. They still make salsa, about a 55-gallon drum’s worth each week, James said. Small hamburgers called sliders entered the food truck’s business because the couple likes hamburgers and haven’t been able to find a Fairbanks restaurant that consistently made a hamburger they liked, James said.

Teacher/School

1 . A m y B r o w n / Hu t c h i s o n H i g h School

Taxi Company 1. Arctic Taxi 2. King Cab 3. Yellow Cab

Gym/Workout Center 1. F&H Fitness Studio 2. Planet Fitness 3. The Alaska Club

Dentist

1. Dirk Menard 2. Andrew Wappett 3. Phyllis Pendergrast

PICKS » 29

“We were so tired of the inconsistency that when we started this food truck thing I was like, ‘Babe, we’ve got to do burgers, because I want a good burger.’ And I think we’ve created that.” James has his eyes on the Readers Choice Best Hamburger Award. This year, that was taken by Brewster’s Restaurant, which sits across the Old Steese Highway from Frostbite. Contact Outdoors Editor Sam Friedman at 459-7545. Follow him on Twitter: @FDNMoutdoors.

Doctor

1. Jeff Banks 2. Corrine Leistikow 3. Herb Day

Nurse/Where they work

3. Professional Pharmacy

Eye Care Professional

1. Damien Delzer 2. Michael Mavencamp 3. Barbara Keys

1. Ginger Day at FMH

Eyeglasses/Contacts

1. Eye Clinic of Fairbanks 2. West Valley Vision Center 3. Mountain View Medical Center

Physical Therapy Office 1. Equinox Physical Therapy 2. Adient Physical Therapy 3. Fairbanks Physical Therapy

Pharmacy 1. Fred Meyer 2. Safeway

PICKS » 31

JOAN STEPOVICH (907) 378-4646 REALTOR/ BROKER/ INTERIOR DESIGNER

t Attorn

Amy Tallerico

Thank

You!

Attorney at Law

stageanddesignfairbanks.com joanstepovichrealtor.com

#1 Interior Designer Thank you, Fairbanks, for all your votes!

t Law Fi

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Continued from 28

2016 READERS CHOICE

PICKS

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

We appreciate your votes 2016 Readers Choice F57508792

Downes, Tallerico, & Schwalm Law Firm, LLC

Celebrating

BE D ST CHIN SE FOO E

I RV SE STA URANT

Your votes motivate us to always strive to provide a great dining experience!

www.pagodanorthpole.com 431 N. Santa Claus Lane, North Pole 488-3338

OV RA ERA AU LL REST

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our g n i ed ur Fe a t Expand a NEW t i n g A r e S e a d Bar! an

wonderful years in North Pole!

Open 7 days: Friday-Saturday: 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Sunday - Thursday: 11:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

n a k b & s r i a N F u o o r t Y h k P n ole a h T

TACO AZTECA & THE MAYAN PALACE #1 Best Mexican Food!

X IC A N F

T MAR GA R

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101 Santa Claus Lane • North Pole 4 88-8226 488-8226 4 81 Chena P ump R oad • F airbanks 481 Pump Road Fairbanks 4 51-8226 451-8226 3 4 01 Airport W ay • F airbanks 3401 Way Fairbanks 4 55-8226 • 4 55-MAYA 455-8226 455-MAYA

S BE

From Our Family to Yours!

ICAN FO

IT AS

T BE S

CA RA U N R E S TA

for Once Again Voting

M MEE

O AZTEC C TTA A N PA L A A Y

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

2016 READERS CHOICE

PICKS

Veterinarian

Hearing Aid Professional

Veterinary Office

Chiropractor

Massage Therapist

1. Dee Thornell 2. Mark May 3. Scott Flamme

1. Golden Heart Veterinary Clinic 2. Mt. McKinley Animal Hospital 3. Aurora Animal Clinic

1. Northland Hearing 2. Fairbanks Hearing & Balance Center 3. Ear, Nose and Throat Clinic

1. Warren Moore 2. (tie) Heather Gappert 2. Shannon Wyman

907-456-4234

Best Law Office

The law offices of William R. Satterberg Jr. would like to thank the judges and opposing counsel who voted for us again this year!

1221 Noble St. www.spauldingchiropractic.com F11508932

Best Attorney

1. Stephanie Ehlenfeldt 2. Kelsey Enochs 3. Sherry Hilton-Scheffler

Thank you, Fairbanks, for voting Dr. Moore and Spaulding Chiropractic #1 in the Golden Heart City

Warren Moore, DC • Shannon Wyman, DC

709 4th Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701 | (907) 452-4454

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Continued from 29

Thank you for voting for us!

08 Celebrate 31 16

The Spruce Tree MonTeSSori School coMMuniTy invites you to

A Very Big Thank You to our guests for your patronage and for your vote making LUNCH , Fairbanks’ Readers Choice for Healthy Dining.

the dedication of their new school building. W e d n e s d ay august 31, 12 pm – 2 pm Program at noon | Open House to Follow

LUNCH Cafe & Eatery 206 Driveway Street, Fairbanks 99701 (907) 45-LUNCH (455-8624) www.timeenoughforlunch.com Like us on facebook https://www.facebook.com/LunchCafeEatery/ l

ng Enrolli l! for Fal

all are invited.

SpruceTreeMontessori.com 907- 479-TREE (8733)

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at the historic Fairbanks Train Depot 280 N. Cushman

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

Thank you Fairbanks from all of us at Affordable Used Cars for making us your #1 choice

452-5707 â&#x20AC;˘ 2525 S. Cushman

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