Reporter-Herald Readers' Choice 2009

Reporter-Herald readers have spoken.

When it comes to living in Northern Colorado, there’s a lot to like. More than 1,000 readers sent in ballots identifying the best the area has to offer. From where to find the best steak to where to take the kids for a fun family day, it’s all inside.

Categories include best people, places and events, best food and drink and best in business. Some were blowouts and some came down to the last vote. Regardless, congratulations to all of the top picks of this year’s Reporter-Herald Readers’Choice awards.

“My

had me do a bone density test. The results showed I had bones of a 30year old. My doctor asked if I exercised. My answer, ‘At Curves!’” - L. Howard.

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BEST THING ABOUT LOVELAND

The people

Not to be conceited, but Lovelanders are pretty great. What’s not to like about a group of people who celebrate corn, statues and Valentine’s Day? Plus, we are just plain good lookin.’

Other favorites:

The art

The small town feel

The Best People, places & events

BEST PLACE TO PEOPLE WATCH

The Promenade Shops at Centerra

People watching is an ancient sport created by husbands waiting on their shopping wives. It has since caught on with both genders, and is best practiced from a bench or a leaning position against a shop wall. Sunglasses are recommended for those wishing for maximum stare time, but remember, pointing and whispering are considered poor sportsmanship.

Other favorites: Lake Loveland 4th Street in Loveland

The Best People, Places & Events

MOST ROMANTIC SPOT/BEST VIEW/ BEST PLACE TO WALK A DOG

Lake Loveland

If there’s one thing Loveland does right, it’s romance. Case in point: Lake Loveland. The mountains in the backdrop, the sound of the water splashing against the shore, boats sinking into the sunset ... this is the most romantic spot since make-out point. Oh yeah, bring the dog too.

Other romantic favorites:

Benson Sculpture Garden

Estes park

case is Benson Sculpture Garden, located at 2908 Aspen Drive in Loveland. There you’ll find 130 pieces of sculpture on permanent display.

Other visitor favorites:

Estes Park

Rocky Mountain National Park

Other best sculpture favorites: Triangle

Kids on a log

BEST CHURCH

Crossroads Church

MOST SCENIC STREET

4th Street

Home to historic downtown Loveland, 4th Street offers several locally owned gems and the small town charm that Loveland is known for. Stroll past the Rialto Theatre, the downtown shops and restaurants, the Library and Civic Center Park. Keep your eye out for squirrels, statues and art along the way.

Other favorites:

Eisenhower Boulevard near Lake Loveland Mountain Avenue

Other best view favorites:

Devils Backbone

Horsetooth Reservoir

Other best place to walk a dog favorites:

Fairgrounds Park

Loveland Bike Trail

BEST PLACE TO TAKE A VISITOR/ BEST SCULPTURE

Benson Sculpture Garden

One of the most impressive elements of Loveland is its art scene. Leading the show-

5420 N. Taft Ave

Loveland, 970-203-9201

Crossroads reaches thousands of people each week, and focuses on teaching the workings of Jesus Christ through powerful worship and a life-changing message. The church is known for its passionate methods of celebrating God, often using music, video, dance and drama.

Other favorites:

First United Methodist Church

St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church

RH photo/Jade Cody

The Best People, Places & Events

BEST CHANGE IN LOVELAND Centerra

With 3,300 acres dedicated to business, natural areas and living communities, Centerra has made a dramatic impact on Loveland.

The McWhinney development was built as “a community designed to enhance all aspects of life,”according to the Centerra Web site.

Other favorites:

Fairgrounds Park

Jax Outdoor Gear Ranch & Home

BEST LOCAL EVENT

Sculpture in the Park

For a truly unique Loveland experience, visit Sculpture in the Park in August. It is heralded as one of the finest outdoor juried exhibitions of three-dimensional artwork in the United States, and features the work of more than 200 sculptors from around the world. It is held at Benson Sculpture Garden.

Other favorites:

Corn Roast Festival

Loveland Loves BBQ

BEST PARK

Fairgrounds Park

Fairgrounds Park, located at the former site of the Larimer County Fairgrounds, is nothing if not fun. Large picnic areas, a spray park, sports areas and access to the Big Thompson river make Fairgrounds Park a winner.

Other favorites:

North Lake Park

Benson Sculpture Garden

BEST CAMPGROUND

Boyd Lake State Park

3720 N County Road 11-C, Loveland 970-669-1739

If a good old fashioned camping trip is in order, try Boyd Lake. With 148 paved sites, Boyd lake is set up to handle a large number of campers. The popular destination also hosts boating, fishing and swimming in the summer and ice fishing and lakeside hiking in the winter.

Other favorites: Carter lake Riverview

BEST PLACE TO WATCH WILDLIFE

Rocky Mountain National Park

970-586-1206

Whether you’re interested in camping, hiking or spotting wildlife, this park has it all. RMNP ranges in elevations from 8,000-foot grassy valleys to weather beaten mountain tops at 14,259 feet.

Other favorites:

Estes Park

Devil’s Backbone

BEST PLACE TO HIKE

Devil’s Backbone

Located off Hidden Valley Drive, approximately two miles west of the intersection of Wilson Avenue and Eisenhower Blvd. in Loveland.

Devil’s backbone is a great place to take a hike. With seven miles of trails, three loops and rolling hills, visitors are sure to enjoy this scenic area.

Other favorites:

Rocky Mountain National Park

Estes Park/ Horsetooth Reservoir

Thank

Now Serving

The Best People, Places & Events

BEST GOLF COURSE

Mariana Butte Golf Course

701 Clubhouse Drive, Loveland 970-667-8308

Eighteen holes never looked so good. Mariana Butte has been rated at four-and-a-half stars by “Golf Digest”and is repeatedly chosen as one of Colorado’s favorite courses.

Other favorites:

The Olde Course

Cattail Creek Golf Course

BEST PLACE TO SKATEBOARD

Loveland Sports Park

950 N. Boyd Lake Ave., Loveland

With bowls, lips, dips, steps, ramps and ledges, this park is not for the tentative, but is a great place to get your ollie on. If you’re not quite ready to do the tricks, or sure what the term ollie means, relax, it’s still a great place to take in the action.

Other favorites:

119

613-0068

Fairgrounds Park

BEST PLACE FOR FREE ENTERTAINMENT

Foote Lagoon Amphitheater

Lovelanders have long enjoyed the concerts and other free entertainment presented at Foote Lagoon Amphitheater.

Other favorites: Centerra

Old Town Ft. Collins

RH photo/Rhema Muncy

The Best People, Places & Events

BEST DAY TRIP

Estes Park

The drive from Loveland to Estes Park is a sight to behold, winding through some of the prettiest parts of the Rocky Mountains. Once in Estes Park, fill your day with shopping, dining, hiking and much more.

Other favorites:

Rocky Mountain National Park Trail Ridge Road

BEST FISHING SPOT

Big Thompson River

Trout is the name of the game in this Front Range river. Starting in Rocky Mountain National Park and flowing through Lake Estes, Big Thompson is a scenic stretch held dear to fly fishermen. Find calm pools under rushing rapids

and some wide open stretches of calm water to test your casting and snagging abilities.

Other favorites:

Lake Loveland

Boyd Lake

BEST KIDS EVENT

Corn Roast Festival

Happens every August at Old Fairground Park in Loveland

Starting the day with a colorful parade, it is not hard for the kids to enjoy free candy and a community spectacle of clowns, cars and local smiling businesses. Then let them eat their fill of corn and participate in all kinds of family activities in an event fit for the whole city to come out and enjoy.

Other favorites:

Larimer County Fair Fishing Derby

BEST PLAYGROUND

Fairgrounds Park

700 S. Railroad Ave., Loveland

Featuring two playground areas, covered picnic spots, flush restrooms, drinking fountains, a dog park, a skate park, river access and a spray park, the Fairgrounds Park is the perfect outlet to exercise the little kiddos, not to mention the entire family. Or venture out for a quick trip into the wild from one of their recreational trail passes.

Other favorites:

North Lake park

Dwayne Webster Park

BEST MEXICAN FOOD/MARGARITA

Adelitas Fine Mexican Food

414 E. 6th St., Loveland

970-669-9577

After recovering from a fire, Adelitas came back stronger than ever in 2009. The restaurant specializes in delicious Mexican cuisine and mouth watering margaritas.

Other best Mexican food favorites:

3 Margaritas

El Pueblito

Other best margarita favorites:

3 Margaritas

Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant

The Best Food & Drink

BEST PIZZA

Papa Murphy’s 986 East Eisenhower Blvd., Loveland; 970-667-9700

1131 Eagle Drive, 970-669-7272

With 1,100 Papa Murphy’s locations in North America, suffice it to say this pizza is popular. The reasons are plentiful: Each pizza features fresh ingredients, including 100 percent all-natural, whole-milk mozzarella, cheddar and provolone cheeses. Plus, there are real meat toppings with no fillers, including Canadian bacon and premium salami, pepperoni, Italian sausage and ground beef. Other toppings abound.

Other favorites:

Justine’s Pizza

Arte Pizzeria

BEST CHINESE FOOD

Asian Café & Grill

1323 Eagle Dr., Loveland

970-622-0688

For the second year in a row, Asian Cafe & Grill has won for best Chinese food. Regulars especially love the sesame and orange chicken entrees. The restaurant also offers sushi, Thai and Vietnamese dishes.

BEST BAKERY/DESSERTS

Schmidt’s Bakery & Delicatessen

808 14 SW, Loveland; 970-667-9811

Once again, Schmidt’s has taken the honors for best bakery and best desserts. The beloved Loveland bakery specializes in cakes and delicious pastries, and is also a great place to have Sunday brunch.

Other bakery favorites: Perkins

Donut Haus/Panera Bread

Other desserts favorites: Fireside Café

Applebee’s

Other favorites: Canton Palace

PF Chang’s China Bistro

BEST ITALIAN FOOD

Carino’s Italian

1455 Rocky Mountain Ave. 970-203-9900

Carino’s Skilletinis, Five Meat Tuscan Pasta, Timballo and Grilled Chicken Bow Tie Festival are sure to satisfy Italian food enthusiasts. When you’re finished with the main course try an Italian dessert or a signature Italian beverage.

Other favorites:

Cipoletti’s Italian Restaurant Monaco Trattoria

BEST PLACE TO TAKE A DINNER DATE/BEST STEAK

4th St. Chophouse

125 E. 4th St., Loveland 970-613-8287

If you’re really looking to impress your date, treat him or her to dinner at 4th Street Chophouse. The restaurant is known for its fresh entrees and extensive wine list.

For a special treat, order a cut of Loveland’s most popular steak. 4th St. offers several flavorful cuts including a bacon-wrapped filet minon and a 12ounce New York strip steak.

Other dinner date favorites: Henr y’s Pub

Cipoletti’s Italian Restaurant

Other steak favorites: Black Steer

Lone Star

The Best Food & Drink

BEST RESTAURANT FOR KIDS

McDonalds

209 East 29th Loveland, 970-669-8250

1809 West Eisenhower Loveland, 970-669-4211

1325 S Denver, Walmart Loveland, 970-612-0011

1620 Foxtail Dr Loveland, 970-663-5065

BEST CINNAMON ROLL

Johnson’s Corner

2842 SE Frontage Road

970-667-2069

The only things in life that you can count on are death, taxes and Johnson’s Corner winning for best cinnamon roll. The restaurant’s rolls have a national following, as about 185,000 of them are sold every year.

Other favorites:

Country Junction Restaurant

Schmidt’s Bakery & Delicatessen

BEST LATTE

The Coffee Tree

422 E. 4th St., Loveland; 970-663-1885

It’s no wonder The Coffee Tree won for best latte. The business uses only the finest, fairly traded, shade-grown coffee and hormone-free milk. The Coffee Tree is located inside the Anthology Book Company and offers amazing pouring latte art.

Other favorites:

Loveland Coffee Fireside Café

250 West 65th Loveland, 970-461-1566

With Happy Meals, toys and playgrounds, McDonald’s is Loveland’s choice for a fun dinner stop. And many locations offer a coffee bar and free WiFi for mom and dad, the perfect combination of work and play for the entire family.

Other favorites: Red Robin Chick-fil-A

BEST PLACE TO GET AN ADULT BEVERAGE

Henry’s Pub

234 E. 4th St., Loveland

970-613-1896

With several beers on tap and bottled varieties ready to serve, Henry’s is the perfect place to enjoy a few cold ones. The pub is designed to handle both large parties and quiet dinners.

Other favorites:

McGraff’s Restaurant

Old Chicago

The Best Food & Drink

BEST ALL YOU CAN EAT Country Buffet

118 W. Troutman Parkway, Fort Collins; 282-8294

Enjoy grilled carved steak, seafood salad, creamy mac and cheese, and much more at Country Buffet, and feel free to go back for seconds and thirds. Just don’t forget to save room for Dessert Central.

Other favorites:

Great Wall Buffet

Red Dragon

BEST ICE CREAM

Penguins Homemade Ice Cream

1518 N. Madison, Loveland 970-292-8178

If premium ice cream is on your to-do list, visit Penguins Homemade Ice Cream in Loveland. The business carries 36

flavors of ice cream made in house. While you’re there enjoy a smoothie.

Other favorites: Dairy Queen

Dairy Delight

BEST SEAFOOD

Bonefish Grill

4920 Thompson Pkwy, Johnstown; 970-663-3474

Bonefish Grill is located near the 25/34 development (just south of the Promenade Shops at Centerra). The popular seafood restaurant specializes in Bacon Wrapped Atlantic Sea Scallops, Imperial Longfin, Chilean Sea Bass and Singapore Calamari.

Other favorites: Red Lobster Fish

BEST BURGER/ NACHOS/HAPPY HOUR

McGraff’s American Grill

1602 E. Eisenhower Blvd., 669 8847

Lovelanders have long taken their burgers and nachos seriously, which is good, because so does McGraff’s American Grill in Loveland. Try the half-pound McGraff’s Burger and the Lean & Mean Buffalo Burger. Or do like Bill Cairo of Loveland (above with the trophy), who recently ate his 500th Portobello Burger. Or go with the Nachos Grande, Loveland’s favorite for cheesy chips. It comes with black beans, scallions, tomatoes, jalapenos and beef or chicken. And once again, McGraff’s American Grill has taken the honors for best happy hour. The blue-roofed establishment has won over Lovelanders with happy hour deals on well drafts, wine and appetizers.

Other burger favorites: Red Robin Gourmet Burgers

Grandpa's Cafe

Other nachos favorites: Qdoba Applebee's On the Border

Other happy hour favorites

Doc's Applebee's

RH photo/Jenny Sparks

The Best Food & Drink

BEST PLACE FOR A CHEAP DATE

McDonalds/Subway

Multiple locations throughout Loveland

Let’s face it, there are times in everyone’s life when money is tight, but you still want to go out. Thankfully there are sandwiches and salads from fast food restaurants such as McDonalds and Subway. Get her a meal with a prize for extra points.

Other favorites:

Lake Loveland

Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar

BEST MEAL UNDER $5

Wendy's

1200 Eagle Dr., Loveland; 970-669-1280

1519 W. Eisenhower Blvd., Loveland; 663-3830

1405 Rocky Mountain Ave., Loveland; 461-9175

For a meal under $5, visit Wendy’s, home of the Super Value Menu. You can get Jr. Bacon Cheeseburgers, Double Stacks, wraps, Crispy Chicken Nuggets, fries and a drink —each for just a dollar.

Other favorites:

Fireside Café

Subway

BEST BREAKFAST

Egg & I

2525 N Lincoln Ave., Loveland 970-635-0050

For a delicious breakfast, look no further than the Egg & I. You’ll find a ton of selections on the menu, including the famous Cordon Bleu Skillet —which has diced chicken, ham, Swiss cheese, hollandaise sauce on a bed of ranch potatoes with melted cheese and two eggs.

Other favorites:

Breakfast Club

Fireside Café

BEST SPORTS BAR

Sports Station

409 N. Railroad Ave., Loveland 970-461-2735

This former train station makes a perfect venue for a sports bar. For the third year in a row Sports Station has won for best sports bar, which is impressive because its only been open since 2006. Come in and enjoy the big screen TVs, beer on tap and delicious appetizers and entrees.

Other favorites:

Old Chicago

McGraff’s American Grill

The Best Food & Drink

BEST BARBECUE

Nordy's Bar-B-Que & Grill

4360 St. Cloud Dr., Loveland 970-461-9227

For those who love good barbecue, Nordy’s Bar-B-Que & Grill is the place to go. Whether you’re in the mood for fall-offthe-bone ribs, smoked brisket or fried catfish, Nordy’s has it. The new restaurant provides dining, take-out and catering.

Other favorites:

Biggins BBQ

BBQ Bob's

BEST WINGS

29th St. Wing Shack

158 E 29th St, Loveland

970-669-3929

Once again 29th Wing Shack has taken the title of Best Wings. The restaurant specializes in rich, flavorful wing sauces ranging from garlic hot to buffalo BBQ, and offers both take out and dine in. Wings are available bone in and boneless, and come with celery and dressing for dipping.

Other favorites:

Hooters

Jim’s Wings

BEST COFFEE HOUSE

Starbuck’s

1317 Eagle Dr., Loveland

970-613-8600

Starbucks has revolutionized the coffeehouse industry, and provides flavorful, unique blends to the masses in a unique, hip atmosphere. Stop in for a vanilla latte or a Pumpkin Spice Frappucino.

Other favorites:

The Coffee Tree

Loveland Coffee

BEST SANDWICH

Heidi’s Deli

532 N. Lincoln Ave., Loveland 970-624-7940

This New York-style deli provides a taste of old school Americana —try the Reuben or a Philly Steak Sandwich to get the idea. From pastrami to corned beef to prime rib sandwiches and tasty wraps, to fresh salads and healthy smoothies, to mouth-watering cheesecake and other delectable desserts, you’ll want to keep coming back to try something new.

Other favorites:

Daddy O’s Green Onion

Panera Bread

BEST PATIO DINING/ BEST NEW RESTAURANT/ BEST SUNDAY BRUNCH

Aspen Leaf Grill

1480 Cascade Ave., Loveland 970-622-8008

Aspen Leaf Grill showed up big in this year’s Readers’Choice awards, garnering three impressive awards. The new restaurant, owned by the same owners of the Black Steer in downtown Loveland, has generated a lot of excitement thus far in Loveland, and with good reason. Give the prime rib a try the next time you dine out. The restaurant is located next to the La Quinta hotel.

Other patio dining favorites:

McGraff’s Restaurant

Fireside Café

Other Sunday brunch favorites:

Schmidt’s Bakery & Delicatessen

Country Junction Restaurant

Other best new restaurant favorites:

Stone Ridge Grille

Nordy’s Bar-B-Que & Grill

BEST VEGETARIAN FOOD/BEST LUNCH

Fireside Café

1515 Cascade Ave., Loveland

970-292-4494

Located in the lobby at Group Publishing, Fireside Cafe is a down-to-earth, welcoming, and charming place to have breakfast, lunch or a midday snack. Relax in the beautiful lobby, warm up by the fire, sip a hot cup of coffee and be refreshed by the inviting atmosphere and down-home dining experience.

Other vegetarian favorites: Henr y’s Pub

Asian Grill

Other lunch favorites: Henr y’s Pub

Mimi’s

BEST AUTOMOTIVE REPAIRS

Triad Automotive

135 SE 12th St., 663-5503

When those car wheels come to a crashing halt, trust a repair business with 35 years of experience. Triad Automotive is family owned and operated. They give honest quality service for an honest price and don’t sell people what they don’t need.

Other favorites:

Metric Motors

T&T Tires

BEST DAY CARE

The Children’s Workshop

Early Learning Centers

1425 Diana Drive, Loveland; 970-663-3146

4601 Sunview Drive

Loveland, 970-613-9424

The Children’s Workshop

Early Learning Centers offer enriching programs for children of all ages. Some classes include science, crazy science days, literacy, music, art and histor y.

Other favorites: Kindercare Learning

Services/United Daycare

BEST BICYCLE SHOP

Peloton Cycles

1310 E. Eisenhower Blvd, Loveland, 970-669-5595

Goat heads are the bane of existence to bicycle tires, and Peloton Cycles has replaced innumerable tubes and tires since 1992. Once a customer buys a cycle at Peloton they get free tune-ups for life.

Other favorites:

Loveland Cycle ‘n Fitness

Breakaway Cycle

The Best in Business

BEST FLOWER SHOP

Rowe’s Flowers and Gifts

863 N. Cleveland Ave. Loveland, 970-667-2300

For 24 years, Rowe’s Flowers has built a loyal customer base. Owner Bill Rodgers knows how regular customers like their orders and will never push more sales on them. He even helps the men who only know about roses pick out stunning arrangements to coax a girl out on a date. Rowe’s thrives because of the generosity of the people of Loveland as they care for each other.

Other favorites:

Earle’s Flowers & Gifts Flowerama

BEST BANK

Home State Bank

Multiple locations in Northern Colorado

Home State Bank repeatedly takes the top award with their variety of services. They are a home-owned independent community bank that has offered competitive rates and straight talk since 1950. Visit their new Community Banking Help Center for a huge online glossary of banking and financial terms and clear answers for all matters financial.

Other favorites:

Advantage Bank

Long’s Peak Credit Union

BEST BRAKE SHOP

Brakes Plus

Complete Auto Service

Orchard Shopping Center, 3190 N. Garfield, 667-3100

When mountain driving takes a toll, the folks at Brakes Plus offer the quickest service around. One big reason Lovelanders stop by is to

fix pulsation, a problem that happens when breaks heat up from driving up hills, causing the steering wheel to vibrate. Brakes Plus fixes mechanical and personal jitters by promoting 100 percent customer satisfaction. Get a brake check-up before screeching to a halt.

Other favorites:

T&T Tire

The Brake Shop

BEST CARPET CLEANER

Professional Carpet Cleaners, Inc.

220 12th St SW Unit 113 Loveland, 970-669-4911

Keeping homes and businesses shiny is the name of the game for Professional Carpet Cleaners, and they play the best. They operate mainly by word of mouth and treat upholstery, tile, grout and ceilings.

Other favorites:

Sears Carpet & Upholstery

Stanley Steemer Carpet Cleaner

BEST HOTEL

La Quinta Inn & Suites

1450 Cascade Ave

Loveland 970-622-8000

At the gateway of the road to Estes park is Loveland’s La Quinta Inn and Suites, an outstanding hotel rated the best because of their rooms, friendly service and amenities.

Other favorites: Embassy Suites

Best Western

BEST LIQUOR STORE

Liquor Max

1497 E Eisenhower Blvd, Loveland, 970-461-5885

Think picking a wine at a restaurant is a challenge? Try wading through a whole room of wine bottles. But the staff at Liquor Max is more than willing to assist in making that perfect pairing.

Other favorites: House of Spirits Wilbur’s Liquor

BEST ANTIQUE STORE

Canyon Collectibles

5641 W US Highway 34 Loveland, 970-593-9227

Canyon Collectibles offers three floors of antiques, collectibles and flea market items ready for scoring the next big deal. The store carries 100 dealers, a credit to their business success, and the staff is friendly too. There is a large variety of products from antique furniture, vintage clothing and jewelry to modern house-hold goods, not to mention collectible dolls from across the decades.

Other favorites:

North Fork Antiques

A&J Antique Mall/ Funky Monkey

RH Photo / Rhema Muncy Rowe’s Flowers and Gifts owner Bill Rodgers arranges flowers.

The Best in Business

BEST ART GALLERY

Gallery East

229 E 10th St

Loveland 970-667-6520

Gallery East offers a large spectrum of culture and art experiences ranging from antique Chinese jade pieces to contemporary collage art and pottery. Many local and regional artists represented.

Other favorites:

Sage Moon Originals

Loveland Museum

BEST DRY CLEANERS

Amy’s Green Dry Cleaning

540 N Jefferson Ave, Loveland, 970-669-2505 and 273 E 29th St # D, Loveland, 970-667-1177

Zooming around town, it is impossible to not spot the Amy’s Green Dry Cleaning vans. They offer pick-up and drop-off services. And every aspect of their dry cleaning is green. Instead of dumping harmful excess chemicals back into the environment, they use sand to clean clothing, a re-usable resource. They also offer in-house tailoring.

Other favorites: Burke’s Van’s

BEST GROCERY STORE

King Soopers

1275 Eagle Drive, 663-4125

253 East 29th Street, 669-6222

Today’s grocery stores offer a world’s worth of cuisine. Wander Loveland’s favorite, the King Soopers chain for weekly money saving deals, fresh produce and fresh ideas for dinner.

Other favorites:

Safeway

Albertsons

BEST CAR WASH

Wash Me

2300 N Lincoln Ave

1033 South Lincoln

3100 West Eisenhower, 970-663-3100

Loveland’s favorite 20-year old Wash Me now has three stores. Each location offers an addictive and reasonable way to wash often. Wash Me pre-paid cards help save 25-30 percent on each wash.

Other favorites:

Speedy Sparkle

Mountain Wave Car Wash

RH photo / Rhema Muncy Pottery at Gallery East.

Pictured left to right: Randy Parker, Ron Frei, Binky Geisler, Brett

The Best in Business

BEST OUTDOOR / REC STORE AND NEW BUSINESS

Jax Outdoor Gear Ranch & Home

950 E. Eisenhower

Loveland, 970-776-4540

Opened in September of 2008, Jax caters to Colorado outdoor hobbies, sports and style needs. From camping gear to baseball gloves, Jax has it all. Jax has served the Northern Colorado area for more than 50 years.

Other favorite outdoor stores:

REI-Recreational Equipment

Dick’s Sporting Goods

Other favorite new businesses:

Noble House

True Colours Day Spa

BEST FITNESS CLUB

Gold’s Gym

910 E Eisenhower Blvd, 593-9111

Gaining some muscle mass has never been easier with one of Loveland’s newest workout centrals. Gold’s Gym features cardio machines, weights, trendy bicycle room and yoga room.

Other favorites:

Orchards Athletic Club

Chilson Recreation Center

BEST TRAVEL AGENCY

Travel Leaders

610 E 29th St., 800-393-4040

Travel Leaders has been under the same ownership for 25 years. They offer corporate and leisure travel. The staff cares about what they are doing and offer world traveling experience.

Other favorite: Travel King

BEST HAIR SALON

Trendz Salon and Day Spa

1417 Cleveland Ave

Loveland, CO 80538

970-663-0455

The welcoming trendy atmosphere of Trendz Salon and Day Spa is the best place in town to receive royal beauty treatment. Their most requested service is hair design. Their pedicure room boasts two massage chairs, relaxing music and a soft ambiance away from the business of life. Their nail technician specializes in funky nail art and colors to add twinkle to the appearance.

Other favorites:

True Colours Day Spa

Ten Aveda

RH Photo / Rhema Muncy Sarah Zoller of Loveland receives a luxury pedicure at Trendz Salon & Day Spa.

The Best in Business

BEST HOME IMPROVEMENT STORE

Home Depot

1100 Nickel Dr, 970-461-9406

Bursting with home improvement ideas at every turn of the head, Home Depot makes gearing up for household projects a blast.

Other favorites:

Lowes

Ace hardware

BEST HEALTH FOOD STORE

Whole Foods Markets

2201 S College Ave

Fort Collins, 970-267-9200

Lovelanders are willing to trek the extra miles to Fort Collins’Whole Foods market, an organic and natural food center bursting with color, light, fresh food, flowers, vitamins and samples.

Other favorites:

Vitamin World

Sunflower Farmers Market

BEST WEIGHT LOSS CENTER

Weight Watchers Meetings held at Orchards Medical & Professional Center

295 E 29th St., 1-800-651-6000

Weekly support meetings are the life-blood of this weight loss support group, and yet again this year, Weight Watchers takes the Loveland’s favorite award. The curriculum provides recipes, support and motivations.

Other favorites: Golds Gym Curves/Slim 4 Life

BEST DENTIST

Dr. Theodore E. Mioduski Jr, DDS 2975 Ginnala Drive Suite 100, Loveland, 970-663-1000

The quality care and compassion

Dr. Mioduski Jr. of Implants and General Dentistry of Northern Colorado provides for patients keeps Lovelanders bringing their smiles to his capable hands. Mioduski has

been in the practice for nearly 25 years.

Other favorites:

Dr. Howard

Dr. Dildine

BEST VETERINARIAN

North Shore Animal Hospital

3041 North Taft Ave

Loveland, 970-663-0220

When Fido takes a fall or the kitty eats too many mice, North Shore Animal Clinic was voted Loveland’s Best Veterinarian for their healing touch and care. Open since 1981, the hospital provides full services, including orthopedic surgery and in-house soft tissue surgeries.

Other favorites:

Blue Sky Animal Clinic

Orchard’s Animal Hospital/Dr. Butts

BEST PHYSICIAN

Dr. Peter Smith

1808 Boise Ave, 970-278-1862

Once again Dr. Peter Smith takes the cake for best doc around (or should we say apple?). For the past decade, Dr. Smith has put patients first in his practice.

Other favorites:

Dr. Danforth

Dr. Bohm

BEST MORTGAGE LENDER

Home State Bank/Wells Fargo

Various locations in N. Colorado

Tied for first place, Home State Bank and Wells Fargo offer the best mortgage lending programs around, standing as solid rocks. For support in real estate selling or buying, Loveland turns to these companies.

Other favorites:

Freedom Home Loans

First National Bank

The Best in Business

Journal gifts available at Anthropology Books.

BEST BOOKSTORE

The Anthology Book Store

422 East 4th Avenue 970-667-0118

Creating community makes a business, according to The Anthology Book Store. For the past two decades, Anthology’s reputation as the best half-price book resource has been firmly established.

Other favorites: Barnes & Noble City Newsstand

BEST PLACE TO BUY TIRES

T&T Tire

1203 N Lincoln Ave

Loveland, 970-667-1030

Once again T&T Tire rolls out the best rubber in town. From pesky nails causing flats to snow-ready replacements, this third generation family owned business offers some of the best pricing in town.

Other favorites:

Discount Tires

Big O Tires

BEST EYE CLINIC

Kirk Eye Center

3650 E 15th St

Loveland, 970-669-1107

Whether some sweet new shades are in order or a serious eye surgery is needed, Kirk Eye Center has an eye on Northern Colorado. The experienced eye physicians perform a

wide range of services from routine eye exams to treating more serious conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts and presbyopia.

Other favorites:

Dr. Cecil

Dr. Osius

BEST INVESTMENT CENTER

Edward Jones Investments

Various investors around Loveland —see www.edwardjones.com.

Navigating murky financial waters takes professionals with community rapport and clean track records. Loveland voted Edward Jones as the wisest economist in town.

Other favorites:

The Investment Center

Wells Fargo

RH Photo / Rhema Muncy

The Best in Business

BEST HEARING CLINIC (TIE)

Audiology & Hearing Aid Center

909 E Eisenhower Blvd # 101, Loveland, 970-593-9137

Hearing Health

2902 Ginnala Dr, Ste 3, Loveland, 970-593-1509

Tied for first place, Audiology & Hearing Aid Center and Hearing Health topped the list for this year’s best in ear health. They both work to improve the quality of communication of their patients.

Other favorites:

Alpine Ear, Nose Throat/ Hearing Rehab Center

BEST CAR WINDOW REPAIR

SOS Glass

200 12th St SW # 114

Loveland, 970-663-4040

With a 25-year history of gallantly fighting the Loveland glass chip war, SOS Glass won’t mess around

with quality and service. Their windshield repairs will restore the structural integrity of a windshield.

Other favorites:

Anchor Auto Glass & Tint

Elite Auto Glass

BEST PET GROOMER

Classy Pup Grooming Salon

1540 W Eisenhower Blvd Loveland, 970-667-2766

Mentoring the future groomers of America is the goal of Classy Pup, a Loveland-based grooming school. Students learn the art of dog anatomy, safety and handling, parasites and 94 bath and brush breed training. Bring dogs in for treatment by instructors or star students for a discount.

Other favorites:

Pet Smart

Boyd Lake Veterinary Center

Loveland, 970-622-9443

One of the newest Jewelers in town, Noble House Precious Investments has been up in running for six months. The company trades in all aspects of the noble metals —gold, silver and platinum.

Other favorites:

Jared Galleria of Jewelry Custom Goldworks

Noble House and Precious Investments owner James Collier.

RH photo / Rhema Muncy

The Best in Business

BEST PLACE TO BUY MEN’S AND WOMEN’S APPAREL

Kohl’s 1340 Sculptor Drive

Loveland, 970-669-0930

Load up and take the whole family shopping —Kohl’s again took Loveland’s favorite apparel hot spot. With seasonal sales and other gift items, streaming through those department store doors fits Northern Colorado style.

Other favorites:

Jax Outdoor Gear Ranch & Home Macys

BEST PLACE FOR A BARGAIN

Goodwill Industries

935 E Eisenhower Blvd

Loveland, 970-593-1032

Giving has never been easier.

Goodwill in Loveland offers vintage clothing as well as modern for deep pocket discounts. Proceeds go on to help local families and lighten the load of back to school shopping.

Other favorites: Ross Canyon Collectables

BEST PAWN SHOP

Friendly Pawn 200 N Lincoln Ave, Loveland, 970-663-1389

Friendly Pawn is friendly and professionalism and they feature products ranging from gold and diamonds to fire arms, tools and a lot of guitars. They are picky about what they take on.

Other favorites: Mister Money

Loveland Pawn

BEST LAWN & GARDEN NURSERY

Loveland Garden Center & Nursery

1801 S Lincoln Ave

Loveland, 970-669-3577

Right outside of Loveland, the first glimpse of life when coming into town on north bound Highway 287 is the extensive grounds of Loveland Garden Center. They proudly grow every plant in Loveland and they also offer a nursery with trees and shrubs in addition to their 14 acres of green houses.

Other favorites:

Gateway Garden & Home Center

Gulley Greenhouse

RH photo / Rhema Muncy Gnomes at Loveland Garden Center & Nursery

The Best in Business

BEST SKI/SKATE SHOP

Mountain Rentals

401 E Eisenhower Blvd

Loveland, 970-6672922

Mountain Rentals works hard to satisfy every customer’s need, and this year they have everything it takes for a person to have the best possible time possible out on the snow-packed hills of Colorado. Stop by and oogle and the rows of rentable snow boards, skis and boots, not to mention their rainbow or colors outer wear offerings.

Rentals.

BEST CRAFT STORE

Hobby Lobby

3133 N. Garfield Avenue

970-593-0077

With weekly sales and enough inspiration to keep the whole town buzzing, Hobby Lobby offers gift and hobby ideas for all walks of life. Watch for frequent mark downs.

Other favorites: JoAnn’s Fabric Michaels

BEST LOCALLY OWNED BUSINESS (TIE)

Canyon Collectibles/Noble House

See previous entries for both stores

Not only do these businesses offer the newest and best in collectibles and all noble resources, their management staff impressed the people of Loveland as well.

Other favorites: Almosta Mercantile

The Anthology Book Store/ Jax Outdoor Gear Ranch & Home

RH photo / Rhema Muncy

Rental boots at Snow Mountain

The Best in Business

BEST PLACE TO BUY GIFTS

Almosta Mercantile

343 E 4th St., 970-663-2626

With hard-to-find items, unique cards and other gifts, Almosta Mercantile tops Loveland’s gift wish list for another year. The store often boasts sidewalk sales beckoning people to bargains on seasonal and apparel items.

Other favorites:

Jax Outdoor Gear Ranch & Home Canyon Collectibles

BEST PLACE FOR FUEL

Sam’s Club

1200 E. Eisenhower Blvd.

Loveland, 970-669-6100

Sam’s Club offers cheaper prices on gas than many other establishments around town. Loveland favors this stop before heading up to the mountains and drivers appreciate the discounts.

Other favorites:

King Soopers

Western Convenience

BEST WI-FI SPOT

The Coffee Tree

422 E 4th St

Loveland, CO 80537 970-663-1885

Nestled right inside Anthropology book store, the Coffee Tree is Loveland’s favorite spot to sip a coffee beverage and peruse the Internet. Any given day will find their cozy customer base engaged in conversation, discussion hot topics or working on homework with their lap tops. Check them out for an Internet experience with smart ambiance and down-town charm

Other favorites:

Starbucks

Dazbog Coffee

BEST YOGA PLACE

Monk Yoga

202 E. 4th St., Loveland 970-685-2344

Owner Jennifer Monk doesn’t mess around when it comes to relaxation and wellness. Her studio offers several

community outreach programs to extend yoga to all ages in Loveland. The instructors tailor classes to all skill levels and generations. For some downtown rest, attend a class or schedule a private session to start down the road to good strong health.

Other favorites: Golds Gym

Chilson Recreation Center

BEST TANNING SALON

Color U Tan

1487 W Eisenhower

Loveland, 970-669-0194

Keep the summer glow up all year with Color U Tan, Loveland’s pick for staying colorful even in the winter. In addition to traditional tanning beds, Color U Tan offers air brush tanning, teeth whitening services, lotions, skin care products and make-up.

Other favorites:

Endless summer Club Maya

BEST PLACE TO GET A MASSAGE

True Colours Day Spa

1426 W Eisenhower Blvd, 663-9423

Deep relaxation heals the body and mind like no other remedy, and the professional massage therapist at True Colours Day Spa knows her methods. She offers neuromuscular, Swedish, traditional and pre-natal services.

Other favorites:

Terrie Martin at Touchworks

Trendz Salon and Day Spa

BEST PEDIATRICIAN

Dr. Michael Quintana

Loveland Youth Clinic

2021 N Boise Ave., 970-669-3298

Dr. Quintana knows how to make kids smile. With 32 years of experience, he repeatedly takes Loveland’s best pediatrician award and keeps his patients through college.

Other favorites:

Dr. Andrea Mead

Dr. Wright

The Best in Business

BEST PLACE FOR BACK-TOSCHOOL SHOPPING

Walmart Supercenters

1325 North Denver Ave

Loveland, 970-669-3640

250 W 65Th

Loveland, 970-667-3331

Going back to school is a complicated deal these days. Kids don’t need just clothes —they need the coolest folders, backpacks and 128 colors of crayons. They also need the newest technology gadgets and high powered calculators. Look no further than Walmart, Loveland’s back to school central of choice.

Other favorites:

Target

Kohl's

BEST EMPLOYER

Group Publishing

1515 Cascade Ave.

970-669-3836

Once again, Group Publishing has earned the title of best employer. Is it the talking moose in the entryway? The in-house cafe, Starbucks and dry cleaning services?

Those things probably don’t hurt, but employees say it’s the personable employees, a company that really cares about its’workers, and a community atmosphere.

Other favorites:

SOS AutoGlass People

Jax Outdoor Gear Ranch & Home

BEST PLACE TO TAKE KIDS AND BEST PLACE FOR KIDS

BIRTHDAY Bounce

1020 S Lincoln Ave

Loveland, 970-593-1800

Loveland’s indoor inflatable playground offers a new kind

of exciting entertainment. In 10,000 square feet, Bounce has eight large inflatables including two giant slides, one obstacle course with a slide, two bouncers with slides, two traditional bouncers and one toddler bounce. Adults can play with their children or hang out in The Corner Lounge, a large area with windows, seating and free Internet. Bounce also accommodates birthday parties with a table for cake and food to keep the kids bouncing all afternoon.

Other favorite places to take kids:

Fairgrounds Park Lake Loveland

Other favorite birthday party venues:

Chuck E Cheese Fairgrounds Park

BEST CHIROPRACTIC

Coberly Chiropractic

Since 1999, Dr. Guy Coberly has been serving Lovelanders. Coberly and his Loveland patients know the power of chiropractic adjustments and the role they serve in a person's overall health and wellbeing.

Other favorites:

Dawson Chiropractic

Gateway Chiropractic