THE
WINNERS
Promotional supplement to The Oklahoman, July 25, 2010
2O1O
SHOPPING WESTERN WEAR
People from all over the United States choose to shop at Tener’s. Some are local cowboys, some are just passing through town for Oklahoma’s premier rodeos — some are well-known rodeo stars, country singers or sports figures. Why? It may be because Tener’s has the full range of Western gear. Boots, hats, belts, buckles, jewelry, jeans, shirts, skirts, jackets, tack, accessories — you name it, they have it at Tener’s. Thousands of boots, hundreds of hats, and a full-fledged hat bar with custom hat creasing. The store carries popu-
LIFESTYLES WINDOW COMPANY
See the beauty of the outside world from inside your home through windows from Champion, a window, door and patio room manufacturing company. With beautiful, almost maintenancefree vinyl replacement windows, you won’t have to worry about how your windows will perform. And Champion guarantees that the products meet stringent quality and craftsmanship requirements and offers top customer service.
TOP 5 Langston’s Little Joe’s Sheplers Western Wear Simply Southwest Tener’s
WINNER
lar brands like Cinch, Rocky Mountain, Cruel Girl, Wrangler, Double D Ranchwear, Justin, Rios of Mercedes, Wolverine, Resistol, Stetson and a whole lot more. It’s true the selection is incredible, but most believe Tener’s success lies in the Tener’s Tradition. Ray F. Tener opened his first Western store in 1930. His love of people and strength of character were the building blocks of the Tener’s Tradition. Nearly 80 years later, Tener’s stores are still owned and run by families born and raised in Oklahoma.
TOP 5 Champion Window WINNER Public Supply for Windows and Doors The Womble Company/Pella Windows Thermal Windows Incorporated Window World
The Champion Window Co. started in 1953 in Cincinnati, Ohio, as a small manufacturer of aluminum storm windows, doors and awnings. Now, with more than 50 showrooms nationwide, including the one in Oklahoma City, Champion’s products have earned the Good Housekeeping Seal on vinyl replacement windows and patio rooms. From the showroom to installation, you’ll have a Champion at your side to make your home more beautiful.
LIFESTYLES MEDICAL FACILITY
Do you ever think about “quality” when choosing a hospital or physician? Most of us do more research when we buy a car or even a toaster than when we’re faced with a medical decision. There are many ways to measure quality — technology, experience and credentials, outcomes and patient satisfaction, just to name a few. Mercy has consistently won in both Best Medical Facility and Best Medical Employer Readers’ Choice categories throughout the past decade. Mercy Health Center was named
RESTAURANT MEDITERRANEAN
Zorba’s has moved and doubled in size, but one thing hasn’t changed for sure. For Greek food our readers say Zorba’s is the place to go. Established in 1991, Zorba’s vision is to seek out the world’s finest cuisines and bring them to Oklahoma City. Here you can find the city’s best gyros, dolmas, hummus, tabouli and more. Many recipes are passed down from generation to generation within the family. Zorba’s takes great pride in serving savory entrees from the diverse regions of the Mediterranean from Cypress to Spain and beyond. Join the Zorba’s family for dinner,
RESTAURANT
TOP 5 Integris Baptist Medical Center Lakeside Women’s Hospital Mercy Hospital OU Medical Center St. Anthony’s Hospital
GERMAN WINNER
in 2007 as one of the top hospitals in the nation by the National Research Corporation — the nation’s leading consumer health care study. Also the first Magnet hospital in Oklahoma, Mercy is a member of Mercy Health System of Oklahoma and the Sisters of Mercy Health System. Magnet-designated facilities: report higher patient satisfaction rates, deliver better patient outcomes, provide more nursing care at the bedside of patients and consistently outperform non-magnet organizations.
TOP 5 Mediterranean Deli Sweis The Mediterranean Grill The Olive Branch Zorba’s
WINNER
and satisfy taste temptations by traveling the world through Zorba’s.
Go to Choctaw to find the best German/European food in central Oklahoma, according to The Oklahoman readers who gave Old Germany Restaurant that distinction in the Readers’ Choice awards. Family-owned and operated since 1976, Old Germany prepares original German cuisine from the finest cuts of veal, beef tenderloin, pork loin and chicken breast. They offer the familiar German fare such as Wiener schnitzel and bratwurst as well as other German cuisine specialties. Its extensive drink list includes a selection of German wines and beers.
TOP 5 Castle Falls Ingrid’s Kitchen Old Germany Restaurant Royal Bavaria The Keller in the Castle
WINNER
The restaurant typically has an Oktoberfest celebration in September. Diners can eat in rooms imitating a cozy German chalet or a wine cellar room. With atmosphere like that at Old Germany Restaurant, you’ll feel like you are in Black Forest or Munich, far away from Oklahoma.
RESTAURANT ITALIAN
TOP 5 Bellini’s Flip’s Carino’s Primo’s Trattoria II Centro
Tradition is not to be taken lightly. It should be honored and revered, protected and upheld ... and every once in a while, it should be challenged. Enter Carino’s. This Italian grill, selected best Italian restaurant in the 2008, 2009 and 2010 Readers’ Choice Awards, has taken the concept of the traditional restaurant kitchen and turned it on its ear. At most other restaurants, what goes on in the kitchen is a mystery,
RESTAURANT ROMANCE RESTAURANT
WINNER
carefully concealed behind closed doors. The grill at Carino’s is wide open. Open to energy and excitement. Open to fun. Open to new ways of connecting with its diners. Open to the culinary creativity of its chefs. But it also is open to new ideas and fresh thinking. Open to progress. Open to new and limitless possibilities. The result is a distinctive dining experience forged of tradition, creativity and fire.
TOP 5 Boulevard Steakhouse Nonna’s Red Rock Canyon Grill The Melting Pot The Skirvin
WINNER
Whether you’re going to a concert, the theater, or a sporting event, Nonna’s is a favorite place to stop. Eating on the outdoor terrace overlooking downtown Oklahoma City, in a private room, or elsewhere in the restaurant, Nonna’s offers good food with an elegant ambiance, no matter what your taste. In addition to the main restaurant, Nonna’s caters to all types of downtown visitors. The bakery sells three dozen different kinds of desserts. The Purple Bar on Nonna’s second floor offers live entertainment. Nonna’s Streetside allows pedestrians to grab a hotdog and other sandwiches on the go, and the Painted Door continues to offer distinctive gifts. It’s easy to see why this Oklahoma City establishment wins top honors from readers who are going places downtown.
RESTAURANT SPORTS BAR
When it’s game time, Oklahomans like to gather at Buffalo Wild Wings, according to our readers. And with 14 signature sauces just for the wings, who could argue? Buffalo Wild Wings is a fun and easygoing restaurant with a comfortable atmosphere where diners can push tables together to make room for everyone and stay as long as they like. And, they make it easy to stay with trivia on a Buzz-
RESTAURANT BARBECUE
It has been described as “the perfect roadside diner, with oversized portions of barbecue for everyone from office workers to hungry passersby alike.” Add to the praise for Earl’s Rib Palace another No. 1 barbecue site honor, as chosen by readers of The Oklahoman in the 2010 Readers’ Choice awards. Earl’s also claimed the top spot in 2007 and 2008 and has been a favorite on the local scene since it began. The rib palace opened in 1996 and has expanded to include several Oklahoma City-area locations. Visit any of them and take in the aroma of the racks of pork ribs or any of the other features meats, such as sliced or chopped beef brisket, hot link sausages, pulled
TOP 5 BJ’s Brix Buffalo Wild Wings Louie’s Republic OKC
WINNER
time® Trivia system and big-screen TVs always tuned to the big games. Buffalo Wild Wings offers a full menu, featuring everything from salads to appetizers to burgers, a variety of specialty items, and don’t forget the wings.
TOP 5 Billy Sims, Edmond Earl’s Rib Palace Steve’s Ribs Swadley’s Van’s Pig Stand
WINNER
pork, chicken, turkey, polish sausage of smoked bologna. There also are some delicious side dishes, such as curly fries, fried okra, coleslaw and baked beans, all made fresh daily, and, of course, those savory sauces. Look around the room and you’ll notice some of the history of the establishment, which, according to Earl’s Web site, includes its link to the late Earlywine “Earl” Jackson, the barbecue chef who earned the respect of the King of Rock ’N’ Roll, Elvis Presley and who prepared an abundance of specialty barbecue platters for the King. Earl’s has a winning flavor among its customers and has since its beginnings.
RESTAURANT PIZZA RESTAURANT
One of the Hideaway signature pies, “Pizza of the Gods,” can only be described as “heavenly,” according to readers who voted this legendary pizzeria is Oklahoma’s best. Established in Stillwater in 1957, Hideaway was a favorite of Oklahoma State University students for years before expanding to Tulsa in 1993 and Oklahoma City in 1997. It also has locations in Edmond and Norman. Have an appetizer of fried mush-
RESTAURANT ICE CREAM
A perennial favorite, Braum’s Ice Cream & Dairy Stores was once again picked by readers as “Favorite Place to Eat Ice Cream.” They also ranked Braum’s as one of the top five places to have a hamburger. Oklahomans trust the tradition of quality that Braum’s upholds throughout its operation. That tradition starts in Tuttle at the Braum Family Farm, where Braum’s raises and milks its own dairy herd of 10,000 Holstein cows several times every day. It takes from 24-36 hours for Braum’s milk to go from the cows to neighborhood Braum’s stores, which are all located within a 300-mile radius
TOP 5 Falcone’s Pizza and Deli Hideaway Pizza Little Caesars Mazzio’s Pizza Papa John’s Pizza
WINNER
rooms or mozzarella sticks, while choosing from more than 40 toppings for your pizza, or let the Hideaway do the picking with one of their signature gourmet pizzas, The Big Country, Paradise Pie or Pizza of the Gods.
TOP 5 Baskin Robbins Braum’s Ice Cream & Dairy Stores Cold Stone Creamery Maggie Moo’s Ice Cream and Treatery Marble Slab Creamery
WINNER
of Tuttle to ensure that freshness. And, the company doesn’t use growth hormones on its dairy herd, so you can be sure that your family is drinking the most wholesome, freshest milk around. Each Braum’s store has an old-fashioned soda fountain where ice cream creations are served, a grill where customers can order breakfast, lunch and dinner, and a Fresh Market area featuring a full line of milk and dairy products, ice cream and bakery products, fresh meats, fruits, vegetables, and more. Braum’s has stores in Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas, Arkansas and Missouri.
RESTAURANT SEAFOOD
The first restaurant to bring the color and flavor of New Orleans Cajun culture to Oklahoma City, Pearl’s Oyster Bar has been a favorite on the local scene since 1984. Pearl’s consistently has been chosen by readers of The Oklahoman as one of the top picks for “Best Seafood Restaurant.” In fact, this year, it sits at No. 1 in that category. It’s a favorite of readers because of its quality seafood and traditional Cajun dishes. Pearl’s diners can enjoy fresh oysters on the half shell, red beans and rice, alligator tail, crawfish etouffee and
RESTAURANT STEAK
A blend of history and outstanding food makes Cattlemen’s Steakhouse one of the most popular restaurants in Oklahoma City. But the oldest restaurant in the state, known for its perfectly aged steaks, its lamb fries and its breakfasts also is this year’s winner in the best steaks category of the Readers’ Choice Awards. Cattlemen’s is listed in the bestselling book “1,000 Places to See Before You Die,” has been featured in Bon Appetit, Gourmet and Southern Living, and has been visited by presidents, a wide range of other dignitar-
TOP 5 Crabtown Lakeside Seafood Grill Pearl’s Red Lobster Trapper’s Fishcamp
cedar-plank bourbon salmon among other dishes that make visitors long for the bayou and yearn for one of the restaurant’s signature Bloody Mary. Check out its new location on Classen Curve.
TOP 5 Cattlemen’s Mahogany Steakhouse Mickey Mantle’s Red Prime Rococo’s
ies and movie stars. Located in the historic Stockyards City district, Cattlemen’s serves almost a half-million meals each year.
LIFESTYLES BED AND BREAKFAST
If you’re looking for a magical, romantic getaway, go with the perennial favorite of the Readers’ Choice “Best Bed and Breakfast.” For the past 11 years, Edmond’s Arcadian Inn has been the No. 1 pick of readers as that location. Gary and Martha Hall opened the bed and breakfast in 1990 after they moved with their two young children into the historical home of Dr. A.M. Ruhl. Arcadian guests can expect a luxury suite with a Jacuzzi for two, a fireplace and a balcony or deck, surround sound entertainment system, wireless Internet connection, a refrigerator with complimentary refreshments and
LIFESTYLES CONCERT VENUE
Since opening in June 2002, the Ford Center has been rocked by numerous acts including Coldplay, Tool, Eric Clapton, Evanescence, The Who, All-American Rejects, Def Leppard, Nine Inch Nails, Green Day and many more. The Ford Center, however, is not just a great place for live rock music, it is a state-of-the-art sports and entertainment showcase. In addition to the many world-class musicians — country, pop, rock and everything in between — who have graced the stage at the Ford Center, athletes have also been given top bill.
TOP 5 Arcadian Inn The Stone Lion Inn Victorian Garden Guthrie Whispering Pines Willow Way
WINNER
other amenities. The private candlelight breakfast features its “To-Die-For” Vanilla Butter Sauce served on specialty pancakes or waffles as well as a hearty egg and meat dish and a fresh fruit bowl.
TOP 5 Conservatory Ford Center UCO Jazz Lab Wormy Dog Zoo Amphitheatre
WINNER
The Ford Center is home to the NBA’s Oklahoma City Thunder and the Oklahoma City Yard Dawgz AF2 Arena Football team.
LIFESTYLES
TOP 5
GOLF COURSE
Belmar Coffee Creek Lake Hefner Golf Course West Wood Golf Course Willow Creek Golf & Country Club
WINNER
Built in 1990, Coffee Creek Golf Club is this Bu year choice for best golf course and is always year’s ranked in the Top 5 courses to play in the Oklarank homa City metro area. hom Their commitment to providing a quality golf T experience to has not changed since opening exp day. The course is mature and challenging, yet day fair, par-70 layout and offers multiple tees to acco accommodate all levels of play. The front nine con consists of rolling natural fairways, while the back nine carves through some dense forest with tigh tight, tree-lined fairways. The greens are large ben bent grass surfaces. A Affordable rates make it easy for the entire fam family to enjoy the game together.
COMMUNITY CAR WASH
The repeat winner in the Readers’ Choice Awards category of best car wash is Red Carpet. The variety of options for its customers, plus the service it provides make Red Carpet Car Wash a popular vehicle cleaning center. Red Carpet offers multiple levels of car cleaning, whether customers need a quick exterior express wash and towel dry for convenience, or more detailed treatment, such as road tar removal. The full-service car wash is for people who need the inside of their vehicle spiffed up as well as the outside. Package pricing allows for great savings on wheel cleaning, online
LIFESTYLES
TOP 5 Boomerang Red Carpet Car Wash USA Car Wash Walley Wash Xpress Auto
WINNER
waxes and leather and vinyl protection. Interior shampooing and exterior sealants give your vehicle the like-new appearance Red Carpet is open seven days a week at four locations in central Oklahoma.
BEST INTERNET PROVIDER
The No. 1 choice of readers as best Internet provider is Cox Communications. A full-service provider of advanced video, voice and data services for home and business, Cox Communications is a leader in broadband communications and the third largest cable provider in the nation. Cox has been part of the Oklahoma landscape since 1979. The company has approximately 550,000 customers statewide and employs more than 1,900 Oklahomans.
TOP 5 AOL AT&T Cox Communications Dobson Communications Pioneer Internet
WINNER
Ninety-five percent of customers take advantage of Cox’s state-of-theart broadband fiber technology that delivers high-speed Internet, digital cable and digital telephone service. The company’s Internet division offers speedy connections to the Web, up to seven e-mail addresses and 70 MB of personal Web space, e-mail access anytime on any computer, and technical support 24 hours a day each day of the week. The service requires no extra phone line.
COMMUNITY DRY CLEANER
TOP 5 Best Cleaners Legacy Cleaners Parkway Cleaners Scott’s Cleaners Swiss Cleaners
WINNER
Best Cleaners is Oklahoma City’s premier garment cleaning specialist offering professional dry cleaning, laundry and specialty services. It’s professional staff members are certified in methods of dry, wet and hand cleaning as well as spotting and laundry. That’s why reader’s of The Oklahoman voted “Best Cleaners” this year’s Reader’s Choice. When it comes to dry cleaning, Best Cleaners promises you won’t be disappointed. Experience personal service and hand-finished quality; see why so many patrons trust Best with their valuable wardrobes. Best Cleaners is the only cleaner in the OKC metro area to have their entire plant certified as green by the National Green Cleaners Council.
COMMUNITY FITNESS/WORKOUT
Continuing its long history of service to the Oklahoma City area, the YMCA provides opportunities for developing strong spirit, minds and bodies for all. For its efforts, the Y has been chosen best fitness/workout center by voters in the 2010 Readers’ Choice Awards. The Oklahoma City YMCA dates back to one month after the Oklahoma land run of 1889, when it organized to provide a source of strength and positive influence for young men who had traveled far from their families to reach the new territory. Since then, the Y has been about the business of helping people of various ages grow in spirit, mind and body.
COMMUNITY
TOP 5 All American Fitness Aspen Athletic Club Lighthouse Tan ’n’ Tone YMCA
HAIR SALON/BARBER
WINNER
Today, the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City offers health and wellness programs at 10 locations throughout the metro area. Members can swim, participate in group exercise classes, play basketball, racquetball or work out individually using a variety of state-of-the-art equipment. In an environment that promotes Christian principles and positive values, the YMCA is open to everyone and no one is denied an opportunity to participate due to the inability to pay. While its programs have changed significantly since 1889, its principles and mission have not. All of these qualities make the YMCA a favorite among its members.
Super style, super value, super advice. You can expect all three at any of our over 2,100 locations. That’s because Supercuts is dedicated to the idea that you shouldn’t have to pay too much to look, well, super. When you experience our array of services including hair coloring, highlights, gray blending, special treatments such as the Tea Tree Experience and a complete selection of salon-only products, you’ll see we’ve got your hair care needs covered. So the next time your hairstyle or self-esteem needs a boost, stop by your favorite Supercuts. Supercuts. Every time.
TOP 5 Anthony David Cottonwood Salon DK Salon Duncan Brothers Supercuts
WINNER
COMMUNITY BEST ATV/OFF-ROAD VEHICLE DEALER
Jones Offroad ATV & Cycle Sales is a family owned and operated business. It stocks the largest selection of clean, late-model, top-quality, pre-owned ATVs and dirt bikes in the state. Centrally located in Jones, Oklahoma, it is the state’s newest Arctic Cat dealer. All pre-owned vehicles are handpicked, fully serviced, and
TOP 5 House of Kawasaki Jones Offroad Maxey’s Oklahoma Honda Shawnee Honda
WINNER
sold at the best price around. At any given time the store stocks up to 300 units and at least 200 are pre-owned ATVs and dirt bikes, as well as brand new Arctic Cat and Xtreme Machine ATVs. Jones Offroad stocks everything you need for racing, hunting, fishing or farming.
COMMUNITY LUXURY CAR DEALER
Bob Moore Cadillac has sold luxury vehicles for nearly 40 years, emphasizing quality vehicles and great customer service. Oklahomans agree, voting the auto group the top luxury car dealer in the Readers’ Choice Awards and placing Bob Moore among the Top 5 dealerships for new and cars. The Bob Moore experience can start online, at www.bobmoore.com, where Internet users can search a database of pre-owned cars and view photos and vehicle information such as price and mileage. At the same website, viewers can choose from among all the brands
COMMUNITY MOTORCYCLE DEALER
Looking for some excitement in your life? A trip to Shawnee Honda Motorsports may be just what you need. With a huge selection and a friendly, helpful sales team that’s never pushy, you’ll get service from one of America’s top dealerships, the motorcycle dealership voted No. 1 by readers of The Oklahoman. Shawnee Honda, along Interstate 40 at exit 185, has new motorcycles and more than 70 pre-owned bikes, scooters and ATV vehicles to choose from. You can look through the specials featuring a variety of equipment designed to provide customer satisfaction.
TOP 5 Bob Moore Cadillac Eskridge Lexus Jackie Cooper BMW Marc Heitz Auto Group Mercedes Benz, Volvo, Jaguar of OKC
WINNER
that Bob Moore Auto Group carries to see from which location to start shopping. The Bob Moore Auto Group makes the entire buying experience easy for customers and has built a reputation for providing service with respect, honesty, integrity and trust.
TOP 5 Jones Offroad OKC Thunder Cycles Oklahoma Honda Seahorn Yamaha of Shawnee Shawnee Honda
WINNER
Staff members are trained to help you find just what you’re looking for, and if they don’t have it, they’ll do their best to help you locate it. The service department is equipped to handle ATVs, motorcycles and personal watercraft.
COMMUNITY RV DEALER
Lewis RV Center has been in business for over 45 years as an Oklahoma City RV and rental dealer. It has one of the largest selections of towable RVs for sale in Oklahoma including: fifth wheels, travel trailers, toy haulers, and pop-up trailers. Its new RV models include Forest River Rockwood, Forest River Salem, Forest River Sierra, Forest River Wildcat, Forest River Windjammer, Forest River Cedar Creek, Forest River Silverback, Forest River Day Dreamer, Open Range, Doubletree Mobile Suites, Doubletree Select Suites, Key-
COMMUNITY USED CAR DEALER
Things have certainly changed since John Diffee opened his first car lot in 1919. Forty-five years later, John and his youngest son, Vic, opened Diffee Cars specializing in high-quality used cars. Their philosophy was simple: Build long-term relationships by treating everyone with respect and giving them good deals. Vic continued to keep the business as family-operated as possible. When he opened Diffee Motor Company, it was important for him to involve his children, both in operating the business and eventually running it.
TOP 5 Floyd’s RV Lee’s RV Leisure Time RV Lewis RV Center McClain’s
WINNER
stone Fuzion, Keystone Outback and Rage’n Toy Haulers. Just need an RV for a few days or a few months? Be sure to check out the RV rental department.
TOP 5 Bob Moore Chrysler Jeep Dodge WINNER Diffee Motors Auto Group Knippelmier Chevrolet Mark Heitz Chevrolet Rick Jones Motors
Vic bought the Ford Lincoln Mercury store in El Reno in 1991. Soon after, his sons Laine and Court joined him to build the best new car dealership in the state. John Diffee’s original ideal continues to provide a firm foundation as both the family and the business grow: Build long-term relationships by treating everyone with respect and giving them good deals.
COMMUNITY NEW HOME BUILDERNORTH
Known for its innovative and atypical urban-modern style, Jeff Click Homes began thinking about meeting the need for a lower price point long before the economy began to decline. As it turned out, it was the right decision at the right time. The Urbana Series by Jeff Click Homes meets the increasing demand and pushes the envelope in both interior and exterior designs, with a much more modern flare than what is typically built in Oklahoma City. There are currently five plans to choose from ranging from 1,400 1,700 square feet, and priced from the $150s-180s in the Silverhawk
COMMUNITY
TOP 5 4 Corners Homes Home Creations Ideal Homes Jeff Click McCaleb Homes
Addition at NW 173rd & Pennsylvania Ave. Each home is certified at 40-percent more energy efficiency than code requirements.
RETIREMENT COMMUNITY WINNER
Readers of The Oklahoman voted Village on the Park as the area’s best retirement community. It is located in south Oklahoma City, 10 miles south of downtown and 2 miles east of Interstate 44, within the Kingspark neighborhood. It is 5 miles from Will Rogers World Airport and 2 miles from Oklahoma City Community College. When it comes to activities, its website says, “Think of us as ‘A Cruise Ship on Land,’ with a lot more amenities!” Amenities include: one-story architecture, no stairs or elevators; limousine – ride to your activities
TOP 5 Tealridge Christian Retirement Village on the Park Vineyard Vintage Gardens Wolfe Living Center
WINNER
and appointments in style; three home-style cooked meals and continuous dining from 7:30 a.m.– 6 p.m.; porches and patios; ice cream parlor, serving both ice cream and popcorn; all utilities, except for telephone and cable TV provided; weekly housekeeping and linen service; solarium, TV and game rooms; exercise areas; craft center; library; salon and barbershop; pets, with payment of a one-time fee; staff available on-site 24/7 – all day, every day; all in-house activities are free; trips outside the community are either free or reasonably priced
COMMUNITY SHOOTING RANGE
Like many things, H&H Gun Range grew out of necessity. Young and newly married, Miles and Jayne Hall felt the grip of vulnerability due to an ongoing threat to the safety of their home and child. They bought a handgun and discovered they loved the sport of shooting. Unfortunately, facilities for learning gun use and safety were inadequate, and eventually they opened a range that would meet a variety of needs. The current location faces Interstate 40 and is 18,750 square feet with 24 lanes for shooting (six Olympic air gun lanes, 12 pistol lanes at 25 yards and
SHOPPING APPLIANCE DEALER
If you’re looking for appliances for your new home, updating your kitchen, or renovating the outside patio for entertaining, you can find what you need at Metro Appliances & More. Once again voted best appliance dealer in the Readers’ Choice Awards, Metro Appliances & More has eight stores in four states and has the buying power to offer the lowest possible price on more than 25 brands of major appliances. Tour the showroom to see the display of products, including some that are showcased in kitchen cabinetry so you can see what the appliance would look like in a home. Expert salespeople
TOP 5 H&H Gun Range Heartland Outdoors Oklahoma City Gun Club Sgt. Everett’s WW Gun Range
WINNER
six rifle lanes at 30 yards), large meeting/classroom, gunsmith room, retail area and lobby. The one thing that H&H has stood on from the beginning is that community and business are one and the same. The Halls believe that a successful business should be involved in as many aspects of the community as possible. This will help the business by keeping it in touch with the everchanging consumer and in turn the business will be more valuable to the community. By the way, H&H stands for Hers & His because Jayne still out shoots Miles.
TOP 5
Anthony’s TV Harry’s TV Metro Appliances and More Modern Home Appliance Ultimate Electronics
WINNER
are available to help with any purchase. So, whether you need a washer and dryer, large or small refrigerator, vent hood, cooktop, icemaker, outdoor grill, wine storage, ironing center, or another appliance, go to Metro Appliances & More to outfit your home.
SHOPPING ART GALLERY
TOP 5 Frame Master Framed in the Village Howell Gallery Paseo Gallery Shadid Fine Art
WINNER
Framed in the Village has been doing great art and framing for more than 15 years in the same location – just south of Hefner on N. May. The store boasts the largest selection of frames in Oklahoma City. Framed in the Village framers are the only Master Certified Picture Framers (MCPF) in the state of Oklahoma. There are only 45 in the United States, so this is quite a distinction. The certification comes from the PPFA: Professional Picture Framer’s Association. The stores expertise and presence in the community shows why readers of The Oklahoman chose Framed in The Village as best art gallery.
SHOPPING NEW HOME BUILDERSOUTH
Home Creations built its first home in Norman, Okla., back in 1981. From those humble beginnings, brothers Jalal and Mohammad Farzaneh have expanded their award-winning operation to more than 25 communities in the greater Oklahoma City metro area, Tulsa metro area and Lawton/Ft. Sill. Always striving to improve its homes, people, and process, Home Creations is the major player in Oklahoma’s new home market. As Certified Professional Builders, Home Creations is committed to high standards of professionalism, safety, fairness, and progressive building techniques for green energy efficiency and safety.
TOP 5 Home Creations Ideal Homes Landmark Fine Homes Raush Coleman Homes Ubuild it
WINNER
SHOPPING CARPET STORE
The slogan of Brewer Carpet One is: “The one store for your perfect floor.” Readers seem to agree and have again voted Brewer Carpet One the best carpet store in the annual Readers’ Choice Awards. Brewer has carpet for a new home as well as to replace the carpeting in an existing home. With four locations in the metropolitan area, Brewer Carpet One Floor and Home provides the selection and service needed to ensure you are getting the best flooring at the most reasonable pricing. The company has a selection of name-brand carpets, including Stainmaster, Shaw, Lees for Living, and
SHOPPING
TOP 5 Brewer Carpet One Factory Direct Mill Creek Carpet & Tile Moormans Carpet The Floor Store
WINNER
Liz Claiborne, and it offers extensive warranties, financing options, personal service and professional installation. Brewer’s experts will help you determine the right padding for your traffic flow, to help your quality carpeting stand up longer. Whatever your need in carpeting, Brewer truly is the store for your perfect floor.
CONTEMPORARY FURNITURE STORE
Curtis Burt started Hilltop Furniture in 1949 located on Southwest 29th Street in Oklahoma City. His son, grandson and great grandsons followed in his footsteps. In 1995, the family built its current location at 201 N. Portland. The 63,000-square-foot store is a dream come true for the Burt family – all four generations that have been in the furniture business in Oklahoma City for more than 60 years. Suburban strives to be the very best contemporary furniture and accessory specialist in Oklahoma. Its staff have a passion for contemporary and modern furniture that goes back to the store’s conception, and continues today.
TOP 5 Cunningham’s Dane Design IO Metro Silverleaf Furn., Moore Suburban Contemporary Furniture
WINNER
SHOPPING EYE SURGERY CENTER
ClearSight Center was founded in 1994 by Dr. Gary Wilson. Since then, Dr. Wilson and staff have helped more than 20,000 people with the best and safest LASIK in the region. Readers of The Oklahoman voted ClearSight Lasik Center Oklahoma City’s best eye surgery center for a variety of reasons including Dr. Wilson’s experience. Dr. Wilson is one of the most experienced refractive surgeons in Oklahoma City. Since 1991, he has performed about 40,000 refractive surgeries, including more than 100 on family and
SHOPPING CONSIGNMENT SHOP
Shop green. Buying from a consignment shop like Nearly New saves tons of unnecessary new raw materials. Think about it: Crops, pesticides used to grow crops, foreign petroleum-based fabrics and a host of other trickledown effects of filling our malls with shiny new stuff. And don’t forget the drastically reduced prices. The cost of clothing these days is serious business. Why not get them at 50 to 90 percent off their original prices? It completes
TOP 5 Remarkable Shop Nearly New The Original Childrens Consignment Sale Uptown Thrift Store Value Village
WINNER
the perfect circle. Get rid of stuff you don’t want and get stuff you do. When you go by Nearly New you can groove to the music, have some wine and pick up some terrific stuff for summer and fall for not a lot of money. Exciting new men’s, women’s and junior’s clothing and accessories come in daily, so it pays to employ the “shampoo, rinse, repeat” strategy of shopping Nearly New.
TOP 5 Advanced Laser Center ClearSight Lasik Center Dean McGee Eye Institute Southwest Eye Clinic Dr. Kurt Weir TLC Vision Center
WINNER
staff members. In addition, ClearSight is the only LASIK Center in Oklahoma to offer a 20/20 money back guarantee in writing. Dr. Wilson guarantees qualified candidates that they will be able to read the 20/20 line, or better, on the vision chart after their surgery or he’ll refund their procedure fee. Many of Dr. Wilson’s patients come from referrals from past patients. Word-of-mouth is the most trusted and reliable form of recommendation, and Dr. Wilson’s patients take pleasure in sharing their experiences at ClearSight.
SHOPPING HEARING AID CENTER
For over a decade, Economy Hearing Aid Centers has made it its mission to help more people hear what they have been missing for less money. EHAC went against the grain of the typical hearing aid dispenser and changed the way people buy hearing aids in Oklahoma and across the nation. Today, EHAC has many locations throughout Oklahoma and Kansas. It is one of the largest dispensing companies of hearing aids in the world. In fact, EHAC continues to grow.
LIFESTYLES ROOFING COMPANY
Harsh Oklahoma weather conditions can damage the integrity of your roof. An inspection by Van De Steeg & Associates can determine if the sun, wind, rain, or hail has damaged your roof. At Van De Steeg & Associates, we have worked very hard to perfect our craft. With collective experience of more than 100 years of new residential roofing, re-roofing and roof repairs, every aspect of our trade has been studied and improved upon.
TOP 5 All American Roofing Elliott Roofing Metro Roofing Salazar Roofing Company Van De Steeg
WINNER
Van De Steeg & Associates’ service department is dedicated to monitoring the quality of its re-roofs and repair projects. This service is created by a “sense of urgency” that prevails throughout the company. A simple air conditioner condensation leak is attended to as quickly as a leak in a driving rainstorm. All projects are a priority. With large crews and proper equipment, Van De Steeg & Associates will provide service that exceeds the Oklahoma industry standard.
TOP 5 Cain’s Hearing Gammon Hearing/Beltone Heritage Hearing Center American Ear Hearing Aid Economy Hearing Aid Centers
WINNER
Economy Hearing Aid Centers is proud to offer its products at such low prices so that almost anyone who needs hearing aids can afford them.
SHOPPING GRANITE, MARBLE & TILE STORE
Builders Warehouse/ Cabinet Outlet Builders Warehouse / Cabinet Outlet is basically the only place you need to stop if you’re planning a remodel as simple as a kitchen sink or as extensive as a whole house. Located at 7137 NW 10, this is the largest retailer of home improvement products you’ll find in the state — what other retailer can say they have over 20,000 cabinets in stock? With more than 150,000 square feet in showroom and warehouse space, Builders Warehouse/Cabinet Outlet
TOP 5 Athenian Marble Builder’s Warehouse Classic Tile Mill Creek Southwest Tile & Marble
WINNER
specializes in tile, granite and counters. You can take your time perusing the air-conditioned showroom to find exactly what you’re looking for whether you’re into Euro-modern fixtures or looking for something more traditional. Locally owned for 20 years by Dan Holbrock, there’s little doubt why Builders Warehouse/Cabinet Outlet is the Readers’ Choice top pick for granite, marble and tile.
OUTDOOR LIGHTING IS EASY WEEKEND PROJECT
SHOPPING
(ARA) — Summer is a great time for outdoor home improvement projects, but it’s also supposed to be a time to relax and have fun with family and friends. That makes quick-to-do projects that add to the “family fun factor” appealing to homeowners. Jay Savignac of Aurora Deck Lighting in Whitewater, Wis., says outdoor lighting offers immediate pay-back in terms of style, comfort and safety. His company is a leading manufacturer of top quality deck, fence and landscape light products. For the 2010 summer season, Aurora introduced two new outdoor lighting kits: the Phoenix Recessed Lighting Kit and the Odyssey LED Strip Lights Kit. Both kits come complete with enough lights to create a custom outdoor lighting installation on a standard size deck or porch. Both kits can be viewed online at www.auroradecklighting.
HOT TUB/SPA STORE
com. Kits can be ordered from an online retailer like www.deckdepot. com. Nantucket Post Cap Company has also released a new lighting product for the summer season that offers the perfect lighting solution for homeowners who have a cedar or redwood deck or fence, with installation that couldn’t be any easier. The Nantucket Bar Harbor Solar Light is the first all-wood solar LED post cap light.
Leisure Time Pools & Spas is a 36-year-old family-owned pool and spa business. Started in 1972, Leisure Time operates two stores in Oklahoma City offering top-of-the-line, quality above ground pools and spas for total family enjoyment. During Leisure Time’s 38 years, it has sold more than 25,000 pools and is the first company in Oklahoma to sell a fiberglass spa outside the state of California. Making swimming affordable
TOP 5 Blue Haven Pools Country Leisure Family Leisure Leisure Time Pools & Spas Wholesale Hot Tubs
WINNER
for everyone is why Leisure Time Pool & Spas consistently ranks as the Reader’s Choice top pick.
SHOPPING LAWN & GARDEN STORE
A tradition of outstanding service with a personal touch once again led readers to vote O’Connor’s Lawn and Garden Store in Oklahoma City as the best in customer service. Readers also selected O’Connor’s No. 1 as the metro area’s best lawn and garden store. The family-owned business opened in 1948 in a 400-squarefoot store in Oklahoma City. It has grown in the past half century, but one aspect of its business has never changed. Customer service is still today among its strongest characteristics. It is not uncommon for a member of the O’Connor family to
SHOPPING JEWELRY STORE
It was 1892 in Indian Territory when B.C. Clark opened his first jewelry store in the corner of a fiveand-dime store. Today, B.C. Clark Jewelers is Oklahoma’s oldest jewelry store and the oldest retail store in Oklahoma under the same name and ownership. The traditions of quality merchandise and personal service have continued through the years under the leadership of B.C. Clark’s son, B.C. Clark, Jr., grandson Jim Clark, and great-grandsons Coleman Clark and Mitchell Clark. Now with three Oklahoma City stores, the
TOP 5 Horn Seed WINNER O’Connor’s Lawn & Garden Professional Power Equipment TLC Nursey & Greenhouse Tony’s Tree Plantation
greet customers personally. Today, O’Connor’s has a fully equipped 10,000-sqare-foot lawn and garden showroom in north Oklahoma City. It features lawn mowers, trimmers, commercial cutters, edgers, blowers and more. O’Connor’s also boasts the state’s largest selection of power equipment. There is a large selection of equipment available and just as obvious is the O’Connor philosophy of treating each customers as they would be like to be treated. Though the tools have changed, that philosophy has not.
TOP 5 B.C. Clark Jewelers Diamond Delight Mitchener & Farrand Jewelers Samuel Gordon Jewelers Valerie Naifeh Fine Jewelry
WINNER
Clark family continually introduces new and exciting designer jewelry lines and other name brand products. As a full-service jeweler, B.C. Clark offers a full line of merchandise and services including diamond, gold and pearl jewelry, watches, china, silver, crystal, bridal registry, gift-wrapping and complete jewelry manufacturing and repair facilities.
SHOPPING LIGHTING STORE
Although it might be tempting to visit one of the “deep-discount” stores, chances are you will be sacrificing quality, selection and a knowledgeable sales staff. Face it: how many times have you gone into one of the stores, asked a question and been told, “I’m sorry, that’s not my department.” At James Lighting, the whole store is “their department.” That’s why readers of The Oklahoman selected James Lighting as the
TOP 5 Andrew’s Lighting Hunzicker Lighting Gallery James Lighting Life Styles Lighting Concepts
WINNER
area’s best lighting store. It offers quality customer service, which includes knowledge of products, competitive pricing, quality of products and availability of products and an experienced sales staff who know all.
SHOPPING LOCAL GROCERY STORE
Homeland stores, corporately known as HAC Inc., has experienced steady growth in Oklahoma since 2002, when the company was acquired by Associated Wholesale Grocers, the oldest and second largest retailer-owned grocery wholesalerr in the United States. Homeland stores feature a bakery, ry, rdeli, floral kiosk, party trays and organic and gourmet items. They also offer limited online ordering and a One Card for doublee coupons, purchase savings, sweepstakes entries and charitable donations rewards to schools and the community.
LIFESTYLES
TOP 5 Local Grocery Store Buy For Less Cresent Market Crest Foods Homeland Walmart
EMPLOYER OVER 500 EMPLOYEES WINNER
HAC Inc. today owns and operates 77 stores under the Homeland name and others in Oklahoma, Kansas and Missouri, employing more than 4, 4,000 associates.
SHOPPING OPTICAL SHOP
."35 Eyemart Express practices a customer-first approach. Upon entering the store, customers are greeted by friendly and well-trained associates who are eager to help them make a frame selection. A free frame warranty ensures that customers remain satisfied after the sale. When you buy glasses from Eyemart Express, Vision4Less, Eyewear Express or VisionMart Express you’ll save money without sacrificing selection, quality, service or convenience. There is something for everyone with thousands of brand name and private label frames with complete pairs from less than $40. Every frame comes with a free one-year breakage
Looking for a values-based, performance-driven organization, offering challenging and rewarding careers? Add to those characteristics ca a full lineup of benefits. Farmers is the pick as best employer over 500 employees in the 2010 Readers’ Choice Awards, as voted by Re readers of The Oklahoman. re In 1928, the Farmers Company was founded in California. Today, w the Farmers Companies, also known th as Farmers Insurance Group, is the country’s third-largest writer of prico
TOP 5 Eyemart Express Sam’s Optical Shields Family Eyecare Sight to See Vision Source
WINNER
warrant — the best in the industry. Stores include a full-service lab equipped to deliver prescriptions in about an hour.
TOP 5 Chesapeake Energy Cox Communications Devon Energy Farmers Insurance Hobby Lobby
WINNER
vate passenger auto and homeowners insurance. Farmers builds a culture of family which is shown through its community involvement and by treating each employee and customer with courtesy and respect. Farmers considers its employees the company’s greatest asset by offering its “family” the opportunity for continued growth and education, profit-sharing and pension plans that are both employer-funded and among the best in the industry.
COMMUNITY Best New Home Development North
Anything else is less than
Ideal
Ideal Homes is Oklahoma’s leading homebuilder with communities throughout the Oklahoma City metro (including Moore, Norman, Yukon, Mustang and Edmond), as well as Midwest City and Stillwater. It has received virtually every
TOP 5 Heritage Oaks Valencia The Vinyard Woodvine Woody Creek
WINNER
homebuilder award in the industry, making Ideal Homes a recognized industry leader in energy efficiency at the local and national level. As a member of the National Association of Home Builders and the Central Oklahoma Home Builders Association, Ideal Homes has been crafting energy efficient homes with state-of-the-art materials for two decades. Over 7,000 Oklahoma families have invested in an Ideal Homes home.
COMMUNITY Best Real Estate Associate Your home is probably the biggest purchase your family will ever make, and it involves many decisions that go beyond simply choosing one you like. When it comes to finding the right real estate associate, readers of The Oklahoma have voted Brad Reeser as the area’s top choice. As a veteran realtor in Edmond, Oklahoma City and Deer Creek, Brad Reeser guides his clients through the entire process, from viewing homes and financing, to making sure the final contract benefits his client’s best interests. Reeser provides his clients with superior service including:
SHOPPING
TOP 5 Barbara Harris Brad Reeser Peggy Darr - Dillard Group Tracey Russell Ty England
TIRE STORE WINNER
- Full access to ALL homes available on the Edmond, Oklahoma City and Deer Creek market, even listings not yet on the MLS. - Long-standing and expert local knowledge of the Edmond, Oklahoma City and Deer Creek areas, not just in terms of real estate, but also schools, neighborhoods, the economy and more. - Detailed knowledge of local real estate market trends that steer his clients out of traps and into opportunities. - Full disclosure about the property, making any and all inspections available to clients
Year after year, readers of The Oklahoman have been selecting Hibdon Tires Plus as their favorite Tire Store. And this year is no exception. Hibdon Tires Plus has 23 statewide locations. Stores features all major brand tires and stock hundreds of sizes ensuring customers get the right tire for their cars or trucks. Skilled staffs of certified techni-
SHOPPING SPECIALTY GIFT STORE
Kambers Luggage, Luggage Repair and Gifts, established in 1922, is Oklahoma owned and operated. It offers quality, functional merchandise at competitive prices. Kamber’s also has a luggage repair department offering a variety of repairs. The store is an authorized repair center for most major luggage
TOP 5 Big-O Discount Tires Firestone Hibdons-Tires Plus Jackie Cooper
WINNER
cians perform wheel alignments, brake repairs, oil changes, scheduled maintenance and more as neededEldred Hibdon opened the first Hibdon Tire store in south Oklahoma City in 1944 with an emphasis on customer service. Sixty-five years, later caring for customers and their vehicles still remain the No. 1 mission at Hibdon Tires Plus.
TOP 5 Cedarburg Square Kamber’s On A Whim Tiger Lilly Tuscan Loggia
WINNER
companies. Kamber’s takes pride in its sales associates who are experts in merchandise and customer service. Hot stamping, engraving and gift-wrapping are offered at no extra charge. If offers a large variety of luggage, business cases, travel accessories and gifts.
SHOPPING SWIMMING POOLS
The Oklahoma City franchise of Blue Haven Pools & Spas is the winner of this year’s Swimming Pool Store category in the annual Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers of The Oklahoman readers made the selection. Blue Haven last year was voted the best swimming pool store also. The world’s largest pool builder, Blue Haven nationally has been the choice for more than 250,000 homeowners throughout the country for
TOP 5 Blue Haven Pools and Spas Country Leisure Mfg. Leisure Time Pools & Spas Lifestyle Pools Pleasant Pools
WINNER
more than 50 years. The local Blue Haven team is the largest pool builder in central and western Oklahoma. Blue Haven’s pools offer high-tech “SmartFeatures” to enhance beauty, comfort and safety, and energy savings and to optimize water usage, including efficient and low-maintenance filters that conserve water, need fewer cleanings and offers antimicrobial protection.
LIFESTYLES CEMETERY
The Dignity Memorial network has started a quiet revolution in funeral, cremation and cemetery services. With more than 1,000 North American locations, Dignity Memorial providers are committed to delivering standards, options and values not found elsewhere. Each provider offers a 100-percent service guarantee, underscored by
LIFESTYLES
TOP 5 Dignity Memorial Resthaven Resurrection Cemetery Rose Hill Sunnylane Cemetery
WINNER
the signed pledge of every employee to demonstrate service beyond expectation. The Dignity Memorial network of providers is staffed by more than 17,000 people who are dedicated to the core values of integrity, respect, service excellence and enduring relationships. Employees of Dignity Memorial providers are continually working to be the best trained, most respected and most compassionate professionals in the industry.
CHURCH
Crossings Community Church is a Christ-centered church building Christ-centered people, through worship, Bible study, friendship and compassion. Crossings holds five weekend services: Saturdays at 6 p.m. and Sundays at 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. The church also offers an 11 a.m. service Crossings Comunidad Cristiana — Crossings South. The Saturday night service is a high energy, casual and unique service showcasing the latest in today’s
TOP 5 Christ Church in Yukon Crossings Community Church Edmond Road Baptist Church LifeChurch.tv Peoples Church
WINNER
Christian worship music. The 8 a.m. service on Sunday is an intimate, reflective service with traditional music and communion each Sunday. Crossings has long been known for its 200-plus-voice choir and orchestra featured in its 9:30 and 11 a.m. services. It’s an inspirational worship service that includes a little bit of everything-music for all ages. Its ministries include a health clinic, school, counseling and Hispanic services.
LIFESTYLES FINANCIAL ADVISORS
At Edward Jones, everything from principles to history makes the company different from the rest. The firm was built on a foundation of principles that guide investment decisions and client relationships. It has been ranked among the best advocates for clients and has been named one of the top companies to work for by FORTUNE Magazine. Edward Jones’ financial advisors make every effort to build oneon-one relationships with clients, offering personalized attention and financial guidance. Edward Jones serves nearly 7 mil-
LIFESTYLES FUNERAL HOME
Twenty years ago two major corporations began buying many locally owned funeral homes. Gene Adams, a trusted funeral director for over 40 years, was troubled that no locally owned facility would exist in the area. After discussing these concerns with his friend, Ron Mercer, who had recently taken early retirement, a partnership was forged and Gene Adams Funeral Service was born. Their purpose was to establish a business based on the Christian principles that directed both their lives. Gene Adams Funeral Service
TOP 5 Edwards Jones Retirement Investment Advisors Retirement Strategies Staton Financial Group Victoria Wood - Chappelwood Financial
WINNER
lion investors and has more offices than any other investment firm in America. We attribute a great deal of our success to our principles and personal, long-term approach to investing.
TOP 5 Buchanan Funeral Service Matthew’s Mercer-Adams Funeral Service Smith-Kernke Vondell Smith
WINNER
quickly built a reputation for providing families with personalized services priced below the national chains. These traditions are continued today in their willingness to help each family design a service that expresses the significance and character of the life they celebrate. In 1997, health concerns dictated retirement for Gene and Dena. Ron Mercer and his family became the sole owners of the business and the name was changed to Mercer-Adams Funeral Service. Before, during and after. We understand the language of comfort.
SHOPPING LIFESTYLES STORE WITH BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE
Some things never change. One of those things is the extraordinary customer service that O’Connor’s has brought to Oklahoma City for more than 50 years. Shopping at Readers’ Choice top pick for best lawn and garden store is just plain fun. This family-owned business began in 1948 in a 400 square-foot store in Oklahoma City. They now have a fully equipped 12,500 square-foot lawn and garden center packed with riders, walk behinds, trimmers, edgers, blowers, etc. They also have the state’s largest selection of power equipment.
LIFESTYLES TAG AGENT
Voters in the 2010 Readers’ Choice Awards have picked Northwest Tag Agency as the best tag agent in the Oklahoma City area. Northwest Tag at 4200 Northwest Expressway is listed as a fullservice agency, handling everything from license tags to driver’s licenses, titles, and more. Online services are offered at not extra charge. Its hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday.
TOP 5 Ginger’s Tag Agency Moore Tag Agency NW Tag Agency Quail Tag Agency Tinker Tags
WINNER
If you have questions about your vehicle registration, about your driver’s license, or if you need assistance with related areas, the folks at Northwest Tag are there to help.
TOP 5 And Bears Makes 3 Chick-fil-A O’Connor’s Pro Power Equipment Sara Sara Cupcake Bakery
WINNER
Though they have grown in the last half-century, their philosophy has remained the same: “Treat every customer as you would like to be treated.”
COMMUNITY TANNING SALON
Once again, Tan & Tone America is the top pick among readers of The Oklahoman for best tanning salon. Tan & Tone also finished in the top five in the annual Readers’ Choice Awards’ best fitness/workout center category. With locations statewide and in the metro area, it’s easy to get to workout or tan. Tan & Tone also makes it easy to bring children during workouts or tanning; at most locations, they can play supervised in the Kids’ Club while parents relax. Those who exercise do so on Tan & Tone’s Robotic Exercise equipment, a workout that is based on resistance and
A USER’S GUIDE TO WEB-BASED COMMUNICATION (ARA) - People use social media for a variety of reasons and to satisfy a variety of uses. What role does social media play in your life? What role should it play? “The savvy social media user will know how to maximize social media use for their benefit,” explains Ted Long, academic director of Web Design & Interactive Media at The Illinois Institute of Art - Schaumburg. He recommends pointers from www. kodak.com as a guide to social media beginners. Some favorites follow. • Know what you are talking about. If you are going to work with social media, be involved in social media. That is the best way to understand the culture, tone, best practices and protocol. • Always be transparent. When you are communicating in social media say who you are and who you
work for. Don’t try to be sneaky and plant comments. • Post frequently. It’s a lot of work, but don’t post to your blog then leave it for two weeks. Readers won’t have a reason to follow you if they can’t expect new content regularly. • Have fun. If you don’t like what you are doing, others will notice it and won’t enjoy interacting with you.
TOP 5 At The Beach Hawaiin Tan Perfect Tan Tan & Tone Tiki Tan
WINNER
high repetitions at an individual pace. It is a fitness program designed to help exercisers lose weight and notice inch loss in just a few visits. Thousands of exercise success stories line the walls at Tan & Tone America locations, or read about them online. As for tanning, Tan & Tone America offers customers excellent service, cleanliness and the latest technology available. Expert staff members can even customize a tanning program for specific skin types. Tan & Tone America is truly a top place in Oklahoma for tanning and fitness.
LIFESTYLES PRIVATE SCHOOL
Readers’ favorite private school, Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School, is a coeducational college preparatory institution of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, providing a Catholic secondary education for students in grades 9 through 12. As an extension of the family, the school community is dedicated to the development of the whole person. Faith and values are integrated into all aspects of learning, living and service to others, in order to stimulate students’ spiritual, emotional, intellectual, social and physical growth.
LIFESTYLES
TOP 5 Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School Casady Christian Hertiage Academy Crossings Community School Heritage Hall
WINNER
REMODELING COMPANY
Sooner State Siding and Windows offers professional service with unmatched value and quality. Its professionals are factory-trained for all installation, repair and maintenance services. Sooner State provides its customers with energy saving options to help reduce their energy consumption. Manageable financing options help customers get projects finished quickly. Siding and windows feature custommade white vinyl, energy-efficient glass, tilt-in sashes and a lifetime warranty that includes labor.
TOP 5 Four Seasons Sun Rooms JH Home Renovation Plumbline Construction Sooner State Home Improvements SW Builders
WINNER
COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION
According to the 2000 American Banker/Gallup consumer satisfaction survey, credit unions came in first among financial institutions for the 16th consecutive year in service, trust, price and other factors. One financial consultant estimated that a person who uses credit union services saves about $300 a year in fees alone. To join a credit union, most individuals must qualify through their employer. As a select employee group, TCFU employer members qualify for
LIFESTYLES SPORTING EVENT
The Oklahoma City Thunder NBA team, founded in 1967, is the premier attraction at the Ford Center. For more than 40 years they were known as the Seattle Supersonics until finally in 2008 they changed their name, their jersey, and their home location. The Oklahoma City Thunder concluded its 2009-10 season on April 30 with 31 sellouts through April 30, including a streak for the final 14 games. The Thunder ranked seventh in the NBA in attendance with 98.9 percentage of capacity.
COMMUNITY
TOP 5 OU/OSU Football Redhawks Games Thunder Games Women’s College World Series Yard Dawgz
HEAT & AIR SERVICE WINNER
The fan response has been incredible with 793,175 having passed through the Ford Center doors for Thunder games. That figure includes the Thunder’s 1 millionth fan. Nearly 5 million viewers watched the Thunder vs. Lakers Game Six playoff matchup on Fox Sports Oklahoma and ESPN. It was ESPN’s most-viewed first-round NBA Playoff game ever. It’s no wonder that the readers of The Oklahoma voted The Thunder as their favorite sporting event. Don’t miss your chance to catch this awesome team at the Ford Center.
Air Comfort Solutions is a fullservice heating and air conditioning company with certified technicians and installers who are focused on customer service. It is the company’s job to make sure you and your family are comfortable and it has many service or replacement solutions available to make that happen. With affordable maintenance plans, competitive service rates and fast response time, Air Comfort Solutions is sure to become a long-time service partner in your comfort.
TOP 5 Allegience Communicaton Federal Credit Union FAA Credit Union Oklahoma Educator’s Credit Union Tinker Federal Credit Union
WINNER
TFCU’s many financial services including direct deposit and payroll deduction and curbside service to your business with TCFU’s Mobile Service Center, a TFCU branch delivered right to your door. Headquartered in Oklahoma City, TCFU has more than 200,000 members with assets in excess of $1.8 billion. It has 21 full-service branches, three electronic branches and one Mobile Service Center.
TOP 5 Air Comfort Solutons Bailey Brothers Drabek and Hill Hardesty Hill & Co
WINNER