Best of the Best 2020 by West Central Tribune

Best DINING & DRINK

Best

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Best

SPORTS & RECREATIONAL

Best PRODUCT & SERVICES

PRESENTED BY:

Fall in love With

The BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY

around!

s u l l a C tod ay! 145 Lake Ave. N, Spicer • 320.796.1000 1425 1st Street S, Willmar • 320.262.5474

JALANNY RUPP BROKER/AGENT 320.894.4512

JANE VIKSE BROKER®/OWNER 320.979.0632

JASMINE VIKSE REALTOR® 320.894.3862

Voted your local best for 2 years in a row!

“Thank you to our loyal clients for this tremendous honor!”

We’re an independent financial planning firm with over 20 years in business. We have 3 CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERS™ on staff dedicated to putting our client’s best interests first.

Estate Planning - Income Tax Planning - Retirement Planning Investment Management - Asset Protection 309 Lakeland Drive SE Unit 2 Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-8065 • www.jdkreps.com The 2020 Best of the Best award is given by the West Central Tribune, a daily newspaper published out of Willmar, Minnesota. Nominees are chosen by members of the community. The top five nominees are moved into the voting round. Community members vote for the winner in each category. Third-party rankings and recognitions are not a guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a client or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance or results. These ratings should not be construed as an endorsement of that advisor by any client nor are they representative of any one client’s evaluation. Securities and investment advisory services offered through SagePoint Financial, Inc. (SPF), member FINRA/SIPC. SPF is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of SPF. SPF does not provide tax or legal advice.

Best DINING & DRINK

PAGES 5-8

Best

PAGES 9-10

PAGES 11-13

PAGES 14-67

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS & RECREATIONAL

PRODUCT & SERVICES

FOR A FULL LIST OF CATEGORIES, WINNERS, AND RUNNERS-UP, SEE PAGES 68-77

THE VOTES HAVE BEEN CAST. NOW IT’S TIME TO HONOR THE BEST OF THE BEST Congratulations to the winners of the West Central Tribune 2020 Best of the best contest. This past June the Tribune asked our readers to nominate their best local businesses and we were overwhelmed with the public response with just over 7,000 nominations. Then in mid July we asked our readers to vote on their best businesses that tallied over 120,000 votes in 180 categories. As you review the winners, you will see the businesses you expected to see, and you might find a few surprises. West central Minnesota is fortunate to have so many local businesses from which to choose. They work hard to earn the support of not only the local residents, but also the thousands that come into our region annually. Thank you to our readers for sharing their nominations and voting for their favorites that helped us recognize the area’s best. Enjoy reading about the 2020 best of the West Central Tribune winners. Steve Ammermann Publisher

4 | 2020 Best of the Best

FISCHER LASER EYE CENTER

Thanks You

Thank you for trusting us with your eye care and for voting us 2020’s Best Eye Clinic. It’s an honor to know you value our team as much as we value you.

(320) 235-2020 • www.FischerLaser.com Willmar • Litchfield • New London • Olivia Paynesville • Benson • Redwood Falls • Montevideo

MEET Your TEAM

Christie Steffel

Group Advertising Manager West Central Tribune

“Doing business without advertising is like winking at a girl in the dark. You know what you are doing but nobody else does.” —Steuart Henderson Britt Our team of experts are here to shed some light on effective marketing tools we have to help create something perfect for your business needs.

Contact Christie | t: 320.214.4317 | e: csteffel@wctrib.com

Marketing Consultant West Central Tribune

Angie Richardson

“You don’t have to reinvent the wheel; you just need to share your unique perspective on why the wheel is important.” —Page One Power We are here to help with all your marketing needs. We will use all our resources to make sure they are best suited for your business.

Contact Angie | t: 320.214.4328 | e: arichardson@wctrib.com

Marketing Consultant West Central Tribune

Rhea Yeadon

“Advertising says to people, here’s what we’ve got. Here’s what it will do for you. Here’s how to get it.” —Leo Burnett We look forward to helping your business get the word out as to what you have for products and services for our community members.

Contact Rhea | t: 320.214.4375 | e: ryeadon@wctrib.com

6 | 2020 Best of the Best

Best DINING & DRINK

Thanks for making us #1!

BEST PIZZA

JAKE’S PIZZA

• Hot Delivery • Dine In • Take Out • Wine • Beer • IPA’s Now Available

316 LITCHFIELD AVE SW, WILLMAR, MN 56201 320-235-1714

Jakes is locally owned and conveniently located in downtown Willmar. We have been making great pizzas, sandwiches, and soups for since 1972. Jakes is locally known for it’s affordable noon lunches, larger dining (seating 70) area upstairs for parties and groups, friendly staff, and of course great pizzas.

BEST WINERY

Mention this ad for a free cheese toast w/ purchase of a large pizza

(320) 235-1714 316 Litchfield Ave SW, Willmar, MN 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM and 4:30 PM - 9:00 PM

Willmar’s Hometown Pizza Since 1972

BEST OF HAPPY HOUR, ITALIAN FOOD, STEAKHOUSE & SUNDAY BRUNCH

GLACIAL RIDGE WINERY

THE OAKS AT EAGLE CREEK

15455 OLD MILL RD, SPICER, MN 56288 320-796-9463 • WWW.GLACIALRIDGEWINERY.COM/

We started the winery August 2007 with 2 wines and grew from there. We’ve hosted many community and fundraising events at our place. We are known for our hand crafted award winning wines, with most made from Minnesota grapes. We offer wine tastings, and wine by the glass or bottle. We recently added hard ciders. Our apple orchard is a beautiful setting for weddings. Our Pavilion is a host site for many events such as wedding receptions, graduations, anniversaries, concerts, and more. Our Thursday Summer Concerts are a huge hit offering mostly local talent. We’re family and dog friendly. It’s a relaxed and happy atmosphere where it feels like a community picnic. We really strive for great customer service and to offer a fun, memorable time for our guests. People come to our winery happy, and they leave happier. Our staff are always telling us this is their fun job.

1000 26TH AVE NE, WILLMAR, MN 56201 • 320-235-4448

The Oaks at Eagle Creek is a restaurant, bar, and event center located on Eagle Creek Golf Course. Situated across Willmar Lake, the view from the outdoor patio with fireplace is unbeatable. The restaurant has undergone major and minor renovations the last few years, creating a modernized yet comfortable space. Aside from the relaxed atmosphere in the lounge and quietly formal dining room, we pride ourselves on the highest quality food in the area. Our staff hand-selects the best new and upcoming wines, craft beers, and our daily happy hour specials are a local favorite.

Swirl. Sip. Savor. e

of th

15455 Old Mill Road Spicer, MN 56288 320-796-WINE (9463)

Thank you for voting us Best Winery.

#1 in Fine Dining, Happy Hour, and Italian Food! We are so very grateful for your continued support and loyalty. We are honored to have such great customers. THE OAKS AT EAGLE CREEK GOLF CLUB 1000 26th Ave NE, Willmar, MN | 320-235-4448 www.oaksateaglecreek.com

Best of the Best 2020 | 7

You are the reason we are #1! #1 in Best Local Date Spot Best Bar Best Bloody Mary Best Fries Runner Up in Best Place to Watch the Big Game Best Outdoor Dining Best Burger

Thank you for your continued support! Lunch + Dinner Open daily 11am - 1am

• Great food • Great service!

Full menu served daily with 30 beers on tap & Great cocktail selections

www.oneilsbar.com Downtown Spicer • 320-796-6524 8 | 2020 Best of the Best

BEST BAR, BEST BLOODY MARY, BEST BURGER, BEST FRIES, BEST OUTDOOR DINING

JOHNNY O’NEIL’S 152 LAKE AVENUE NORTH SPICER, MN 320-796-6524 WWW.ONEILSBAR.COM/

Located on the sparkling shores of Green Lake in Central Minnesota, O’Neil’s is the ultimate host for you. New owners, Donovan and Keisha Frauendienst, have been in the restaurant business for over 20 years. It is their mission to continue to create a fun; casual atmosphere for friends and family to gather for any occasion. Stop on in to meet the new owners, Donovan and Keisha, who live locally and raise their 3 children in the NLS School district. O’Neil’s is open daily serving memorable, quality and classic inspired dishes as well as inventive new daily features. Come to socialize, eat, drink and watch your favorite sports team on one of our big screens. O’Neil’s continues to be the areas #1 choice for outstanding eats, events and entertainment. Enjoy over 30 different tap beers or choose from a variety of cocktails. O’Neil’s is also a great location to host your next gathering with their event center; holding up to 150 people, it comes with a complete banquet, food service, audio and visual equipment, wireless internet and a professional staff. It’s the perfect place to host work events, meetings, receptions, parties and any other banquet needs. At O’Neil’s, whether you are sitting at the bar watching the game, in the dining room with the family, listening to live music, or even outside enjoying the patio atmosphere, one thing is certain, great food and great service. Upcoming events include: Walter’s Wheel House (Aug 21): 7-10pm Merchants of Soul (Aug 23): 6-9pm Dave Lumley (Aug 28): 6-9pm Michael Shynes (Aug 30): 6-9pm See our complete event listing at www.oneilsbar.com/event-calendar

Best of the Best 2020 | 9

BEST RIBS

WILLMAR AMERICAN LEGION 220 19TH AVE SW WILLMAR, MN 56201 320-235-8136

Welcome to the Willmar American Legion, serving our Veterans for over 100 years. Our restaurant and bar has a capacity of 235 people with an extensive menu and full bar. Our smaller room is perfect for intimate gatherings or meetings accommodating up to 40 people. Our Event Center offers seating up to 260 people. Perfect for weddings, quincinera’s, grooms dinners, training seminars, conventions and more. The Event Center has its own full bar and menu sure to delight everyone. Food and beverage service is available Monday - Saturday starting at 11am, with daily specials for lunch and supper as well. We offer pulltabs, e-tabs, meat raffles, and bingo including special event bingo’s. Proceeds are donated to nonprofit organizations, 501 3(c), schools and our Legion’s baseball team. Thank you to everyone that voted us “The Best of the Best” Ribs! We are so honored. Give Vicki a call at 320.235.8136 to book your next event. Find us on facebook @ Willmar Legion.

Proud to be your Number 1 choice for best ribs!! Thank you for your continued support!

* * Banquet Seating Available * * Take-out Available

320-235-8136

220 19th Ave. SW, Willmar • https://www.facebook.com/WillmarLegion Located on 19th Ave SW Behind Goodwill

BEST CANDY SHOP

MR. B’S CHOCOLATES 1707 TECHNOLOGY DR. NE SUITE 101 WILLMAR MN 56201 (320) 235-1313 WWW.MRBCHOCOLATES.COM/

Mr. B’s Chocolates is rich with a 32+ year history in Willmar, Minnesota. Our Mr. B’s Chocolates are made with only the finest ingredients and are handcrafted daily in our Minnesota shop. They are made with love by an exceptional staff that puts their hearts into the chocolate making process. We import Belgium’s finest chocolate and create fresh, small-batch confections where no artificial preservatives need to be used. We specialize in making handcrafted truffles, candies, and novelty creations using original Swiss and Belgian recipes.

We love West Central Minnesota and have a rich 33 year history in Willmar! Handcrafted Belgian Chocolate Finest quality and no artificial preservatives n

Voted Best Candy Shop Thank you for making us #1!

Visit us: MinnWest Technology Campus 1707 Technology Drive, Suite 101 S Store hours: Mon-Fri: 9:30 am - 5:30 pm Sat: 9:30 am - 1:30 pm (Sun: Closed)

mrbchocolates.com m | 320-235-1313

AN EXCEPTIONAL CHOCOLATE EXPERIENCE 10 | 2020 Best of the Best

Best

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Best of the Best 2020 | 11

BEST PLACE FOR SUMMER FAMILY FUN

BIG KAHUNA FUN PARK 190 PROGRESS WAY, SPICER, MN 56288 (320) 796-2445 WWW.SPICERFUNPARK.COM/

The Big Kahuna Fun Park & Godfather’s Pizza Express is nestled near Green Lake in the heart of Spicer. With 2 Go Kart Tracks, Water Wars Bumper Boats, 18 Hole Mini Golf, Power Wheels course, an inside Arcade, Snacks and Hard Dip Ice Cream! There is something for everyone from pre-schoolers to the young at heart! Open 7 days a week from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day Weekend. Call ahead for open hours early or late season. Call 320-220-3600 to book a Party for Business, School, Scouts, Youth Group, Day Care and more! Godfather’s Pizza Express is open May-November from 11:00am-9:00pm, 7 days a week. Enjoy a quick grab and go pizza, or order ahead. Dine in or take out! We have a large variety of specialty pies, wings, garlic bread, breadsticks, cheese sticks, pizza rolls, dessert pizzas, cookies, and Pepsi and Coke products that will appeal to everyone! Call ahead at 320-409-1500 or stop by for a pizza you can’t refuse!

Thank you for VOTING US the BEST PLACE for SUMMER FAMILY FUN!!

NOW SERVING

320-796-2445 12 | 2020 Best of the Best

190 Progress Way • Spicer, MN

320-409-1500

Best

SPORTS & RECREATIONAL

BEST BICYCLE SHOP

RICK’S CYCLING & SPORTS CENTER 320 SW 3RD STREET WILLMAR, MN 56201 320-235-0202

THANKS

your for voting us p! o #1 Bicycle Sh

We’ll Get Your Bike Running Right! We specialize in expert bicycle repair. Whether it’s an old dustcovered rig you want to get overhauled for riding to work, your custom dream machine that needs a basic tune-up for that upcoming ride, or just about anything else, simply bring your machine by and we’ll get it running right again! Bike Commuting Is Fun And Cheap! Tired of paying high prices for gas, parking, repairs and maintenance? Give bike commuting a try! It’s fun, easy, a great way to get healthier and it saves you money and reduces global warming. Come by the shop soon and let us help you get prepared to actually enjoy your ride to work!

320 SW 3rd Street Willmar, MN 56201

320-235-0202 • RICKSCYCLING.COM Best of the Best 2020 | 13

BEST GOLF COURSE

LITTLE CROW GOLF RESORT 15980 HWY 23 SPICER, MN 56288 320-347-1500 LITTLECROWGOLFRESORT.COM/

Little Crow golf course has been a part of the Spicer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; New London community for 50 years. We are celebrating our 50th anniversary, and continuing to strive to be one of the premier places to golf and dine in western Minnesota. This golf course started out as a small-town 9 hole golf course, and then shortly after expanded to 18 holes. Then in 2000, Little Crow looked toward the future of the golf course, and made it a mission to serve the people in this area with another 9 holes. Now with 27 beautiful holes, this golf course is one of the most beautiful golf courses on the west side of Minnesota. Every nine offers you a new challenge. The Willows is a par-36 course at 3,077 yards. It features five holes that make club selection key. With dog-legs and water hazards, the Willows will test your skills with shot shaping and accuracy. The Pines is a par-36 course at 3,151 yards. It features Little Crowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s longest par 5 and our shortest par 4 on the property. This nine is our most challenging nine, and will test your skills with shot placement and difficult approaches. The Oaks is a par-36 course at 3,260 yards, making it our longest nine. With trees lining the fairways and more

14 | 2020 Best of the Best

unforgiving features, you will find this course testing the longer clubs in your bag. After your round, swing into the Little Crow Tavern and Grille to enjoy some beautiful views on the patio and some delicious meals and cold beverages. We have a 27 hole golf course that is one of the best maintained courses in all of Minnesota. We recently built a new golf shop, restaurant, and an outstanding outdoor patio that presents area patrons an opportunity to enjoy a great night out with family and friends. We are committed to providing to the entire public a chance to experience one of the most challenging and exciting rounds of golf within 100 miles. We also have the restaurant which shares beautiful views of the golf course and sunset. Our music on the patio as well as outstanding food and beverage menu, combined with great service and knowledgeable staff, makes us a premier destination for golf and dining.

• 27 Hole Championship Golf Course • Full Service Practice Facility • Golf Shop • Online Tee Time Booking • Ask About Our Fall Specials • Open to the Public

Best of the Best 2020 | 15

Best PRODUCT & SERVICES

RUNNER-UP, BEST CABINETS

KITCHEN FAIR 313 SW 5TH ST WILLMAR, MN 56201 320-231-1230 WWW.KITCHENFAIRMN.COM/

We have worked diligently to achieve our current level of success. We are dedicated to making the homes in our community beautiful – one customer at a time. We are locally owned, certified, and insured. Willmar, Minnesota and surrounding areas enjoy the benefits of our highquality and affordable services. We look forward to serving our community for many years to come. We strive to ensure your design project is realized within budget, on time, and to your specifications. We enjoy helping design the room of your dreams. Kitchen Fair has been providing quality cabinetry services to the Central Minnesota community for over 40 years. Our qualified professionals have years of industry experience and skills that are unsurpassed in our market. We would be happy to provide you with a quote of any of our services.

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

LAURA JILL PHOTOGRAPHY 500 26TH STREET SE • WILLMAR, MN 56201 320.295.6648 WWW.LAURAJILLPHOTOGRAPHY.COM/

I’ve been a photographer for 15 years now. In my career I have photographed over 750 family sessions, 125 weddings, and 225 senior sessions. Laura Jill Photography is located in Willmar, MN and my services include weddings, family photos, senior portraits, and other freelance work. I absolutely love photography. My personal style is to create a fun, relaxed, non-pressured environment for portraits. Photography allows me to capture a moment that may never happen again.

Thanks for Voting Us Top 3 in Best Kitchen Cabinets! Quality Design & Service for Over 40 Years 313 W 5th St. Willmar, MN Mon.-Thurs. 9am-5pm, Fri. 9am-NOON, Sat. & Evenings by Appt.

320.231.1230 Bruce Dexter CKD, Certified Kitchen Designer 43 Years Alicia Molenaar, CKD, Certified Kitchen Designer 21 Years

16 | 2020 Best of the Best

BEST WINDOW CLEANING

SQUEEGEE & ME 7595 N SHORE DR, SPICER, MN 56288 320-321-9033 WWW.SQUEEGEEANDME.BUSINESS.SITE

My name is David Cowart, and I would like to introduce myself and my wife Danielle (Or ‘Dj’). We have lived in Spicer for 2 years, and we love it! I have been cleaning windows for 14 years and my wife joined me about 6 years ago. I initially started a window cleaning business in Las Vegas during the recession in 2007-2008, and did very well. I sold that business, and started it up again in Phoenix, and when we moved here to Spicer, we moved our business with us. We have to say, our Spicer (and surrounding area clients) are our favorite by far! Everyone is so nice and kind. We are also so thankful to all of you for voting us best of 2020 and for your patronage these last couple years! As far as our window cleaning method, while we still use the good ole’ fashioned squeegee & scrubber at times and always on the interior windows, when it comes to the exterior we have upgraded to a safer and better system. This system is a pure water fed pole that connects to a brush that leaves your windows totally spotless! Not to mention, no harmful chemicals to the environment. Think of pure water without any deposits to leave spots on your windows (no matter if you’re on well or city water), once the water evaporates from the window, it leaves it perfectly clean! Also, the water/brush feature naturally cleans the window frame very well. (Just see our reviews!) Your satisfaction is our guarantee when you choose Squeegee & Me! We look forward to hearing from you!

Voted #1 in

Window Cleaning Services

Residential & Commercial Window Cleaning Service

Call or Text 320-321-9033 | SQUEEGEEANDME.MN@GMAIL.COM Best of the Best 2020 | 17

BEST DIESEL TRUCK REPAIR

BARKER TRACTOR AND TRUCK REPAIR 55920 340TH ST GROVE CITY, MN (320) 857-2230 WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/BARKERTRACTORANDTRUCK

BARKER

Barker Tractor and Truck Repair is your local professional full service diesel truck and tractor repair shop. They were established in 2005 by Daryl Barker in the rural Grove City/Manannah area after his honorable discharge from the United States Army. Fred Barker joined the company in July of 2009. Fred semi retired last spring but still works most days in the shop. They repair all types of trucks and tractors specializing in antique and older tractors. Daryl Barker, owner is a DOT certified inspector with many years of experience in diesel repair. Barker and his team of certified mechanics will help take the guesswork out of tractor and truck maintenance and repair with their upfront quotes and no hassle attitudes. Recently they have also expanded to offer a full range of tires and tracks for all types of vehicles. Barker Tractor and Truck Repair have helped keep the rural farmers moving in the Grove City, Atwater, Lake Lillian, Cosmos, Litchfield, Eden Valley areas and plan to do so for many more years to come. Thank you for voting us your #1 in Diesel Truck Repair!

BARKER

TRACTOR & TRUCK REPAIR • Tractor • Truck • Welding • Engine • Electrical • Tires/Tracks • Transmission • Tractor restoration

DOT Certified Diesel Mechanic • Shop 320-857-2230 • 55920 340th St, Grove City, MN 18 | 2020 Best of the Best

RUNNER UP, BEST VETERINARIAN OFFICE

ATWATER VET (ANIMAL HEALTH SERVICES) 301 PLEASANT AVE E ATWATER, MN (320) 974-8901 • WWW.ATWATERVETERINARIAN.COM/

Since 1998 Dr. Kim and her team at Animal Health Services have embraced the preventative approach to pet health so that your animal can enjoy the highest possible quality of life. We pride ourselves in our background in animal care, knowledge of traditional and proven techniques as well as staying up-to-date with the latest in veterinary procedures, techniques and equipment. Whether it is routine care or a sick/ injured animal the hospital is fully equipped and experienced to deliver the top-notch veterinary medicine for your pet. Making “farm calls” and handling emergencies is all a part of our “day-today” veterinary business! If your pet needs a “home away from home”, we are here to lovingly watch over them! We also offer bathing, nail trimming and even dental care! Emergencies happen and help is just a phone call away and we provide mobile service for large farm animals. We stock a wide range of high quality pharmaceutical products, supplies, food and skin care products. Learn more at www.atwaterveterinarian.comor call 320.974.8901

•PREVENTIVE CARE •SURGERY •PAIN MANAGEMENT •INTERNAL MEDICINE •MICROCHIPPING •DENTAL CLEANING •DERMATOLOGY

•EMERGENCY CARE •EUTHANASIA •SPECIALTY SERVICES •PHARMACY & SUPPLIES •BOARDING SERVICES •GROOMING SERVICES

Runner Up Best Veterinarian Office

301 Pleasant Ave. Atwater, MN Visit our website for additional services or call us at 320.974.8901

www.atwaterveterinarian.com Follow us on Facebook

RUNNER- UP - BEST INSULATION CONTRACTORS/COMPANIES

LIC #CR720238

ABC SEAMLESS 5170 HWY 71 NE, WILLMAR, MN 56201 (320) 231-1383

At Remodeling Solutions Inc., we strive to inform homeowners about our products and the quality, while making your house into your home. At Remodeling Solutions Inc. our vision is to leave our customers satisfied with our quality of work, product knowledge, and create a trusted and lasting relationship with our customers . At Remodeling Solutions Inc. we believe in doing the right thing. Our staff believes trust, honor, and honesty are the fundamental values of the company. We strive to treat people with dignity and respect as well as provide the highest quality of work, so we will never take on a project we believe our staff is unable to handle.

THANK YOU FOR VOTING FOR US!

BEST HAIR SALON

BOMBSHELLS & BROWS SALON & MICROBLADING 1004 1ST ST S WILLMAR, MN 56201 320-403-5009

You deserve the best. We provide high quality service and styles from classic to the newest trends. We would be honored to help you get ready to feel beautiful each and every day. Making great memories is what life is all about. When you visit us you’ll love every minute and leave feeling on top of the world!

We are honored to be voted Best Hair Salon!! Thank you for your continued support! We are excited to still be offering you all the same services in our New Location in Willmar NEW LOCATION

812 1st Street South Willmar, MN 56201 (320) 403-5009 bombshellsandbrows.com

Best of the Best 2020 | 19

BEST DENTAL OFFICE

KANDI DENTAL CENTER, PA 400 24TH AVE SE WILLMAR, MN 320-235-9363 WWW.KANDIDENTAL.COM/

Wow! Everyone at Kandi Dental Center sends out a huge “Thank You” for voting us as the Best Dental Clinic in the area. Here at Kandi Dental, we have an incredible staff that works together to provide an elite experience for our patients on a daily basis. We combine high level knowledge with a caring, friendly atmosphere that patients appreciate. Quite often we hear how patients like and look forward to going to the dentist – we know, unheard of, right? Kandi Dental has been a steady piece of the community since 1984 when Dr. Daryl Marcus opened in the Kandi Mall. Dr. Nicholas Marcus bought the practice in 2011 and built our new location in 2017. Since then, we have grown exponentially and thank our amazing staff for that growth. Thank you again to our patients and the community from Dr. Marcus and KDC Staff!

Kandi Dental Thanks our patients for their kindness and support in being voted Best Dental Clinic. In order to continue to provide exceptional care for our wonderful patients, we are currently looking for a dental hygienist to join our amazing team!

P.A.

Kandi Dental Center, PA 400 24th Ave SE, Willmar 320-235-9363 www.kandidental.com 20 | 2020 Best of the Best

If you are a dental hygienist who could make the Best Dental Clinic even better, and you enjoy patient-centered care in a fun and fast-paced office, please contact us today!

BEST FLORIST

LATE BLOOMERS 1303 1ST ST S #8, WILLMAR, MN 56201 320-235-4940

When you need flower delivery to the below listed cities, Late Bloomers Floral & Gift is here for you. We have an expansive array of roses, flowers, green plants, blooming plants, plush, candy, balloons, home décor’ and gifts for most any occasion. Our experienced staff can work with you to create a one-of-a-kind gift you’re sure to love. Late Bloomers Floral & Gift can help you send the perfect gift to show your loved ones how much you care. We’re proud to be the leading florist in the Willmar, MN area. Our floral designers use only premium flowers in our arrangements. We also offer beautiful custom designed wedding flower arrangements including wedding bouquets, boutonnieres and centerpieces. Late Bloomers Floral & Gift can assist you with sending sympathy funeral flowers as well. Call Late Bloomers Floral & Gift (320.235.4940), “Where Every Day is a Flower Day.” We deliver to the following areas: Atwater MN; Belgrade MN; Blomkest MN; Bunde MN; Clara City MN; Hawick MN; Kandiyohi MN; Kerkhoven MN; Lake Lillian MN; Murdock MN; New London MN; Olivia MN; Paynesville MN; Pennock MN, Prinsburg MN, Raymond MN, Roseland MN; Spicer MN; Sunburg MN and Svea MN; Willmar, MN

Thank YOU for voting us your

#1 Florist where every day is a flower day! 1303 1st St S Suite #8, Willmar 320-235-4940 • www.willmarflowers.com Hours: M-F 8:30am - 5:00pm • Saturday 9:00am-1:00pm • Closed Sunday Best of the Best 2020 | 21

BEST AUTO CARE, BEST CAR WASH, BEST OIL CHANGE

WALT’S

1200 1ST ST S WILLMAR, MN 56201 320-235-5740 WALTSCARWASH.COM/ 2020 marks over 50 years Walt’s has been a locally owned business that takes great pride in being part of the Willmar community. Starting as a gas station – convenience store, adding car washes, oil changes and detailing services makes Walt’s the well-rounded vehicle destination. Walt’s has been blessed by the employees that represent our business. Employing area youth since its beginning, with one member of the team here since 1978. Our employees are the backbone of Walt’s, greeting customers with a smile and the great fast and friendly service that Walt’s is known for. The gas island offers top tier 87, Midgrade and Premium grades of gasoline. Walt’s was one of the 1st stations in Willmar to offer E85/E15 to round out the alternative fuel needs. Biodiesel is offered as # 2 and an Arctic Blend in the winter. The 10 Minute In/Out oil change features Quaker State oils with all other brands available upon request. No appointment is necessary. While at the oil change the technicians preform a 20 point inspection to insure you have the appropriate lights, belts and fluids. Want you vehicle to look like it just came off the sales lot? Our Detailing service can clean your vehicle inside and out. Like a clean car? Walt’s car wash preps your vehicle to remove bugs, dirt and ice. Put your vehicle in neutral and sit back and relax while the conveyor guides you thru the best car wash in town. We offer 4 different wash options, one of which is a hot wax Carnauba. Purchase your wash in the convenience store, oil change or in the wash line. Frequent washers enjoy the Xpress wash program, available as monthly, bi-annual or annually in all wash options. Walt’s self service bays will fit your needs if you prefer to wash it yourself.

CAR WASH

Soft Cloth and Self-Wash Car Wash Hours: Mon.-Sat. 7:30am-7pm Sun.8am-4pm

Oil Change Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-6pm Sat. 8am-5pm

No appointment necessary.

Locally Owned - Supporting Our Community!

Voted #1 Auto Care Oil Change Car Wash Runner Up in Best Gas Station/ Convenience Store

1200 1st Street South • 320-235-5740 • www.waltscarwash.com 22 | 2020 Best of the Best

BEST AUTO SUPPLY

ACCESSORIES 4 TRUCKS

1813 1ST ST S, WILLMAR, MN (320) 231-9715 WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ACCESSORIES-4-TRUCKS-149089308460865 Accessories 4 Trucks started itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s journey back in 2001 by Phil Schulz and has been serving his community with truck, SUV, car and van accessory needs. Accessories 4 Trucks features the hottest new parts and accessories and top quality products from trusted name brands. Their custom-fit and universal products are designed to provide protection, comfort, safety, style and enhanced performance for all trucks, sport utility vehicles, cars, vans and cross over vehicles. Accessories 4 Trucks has auto accessories for Ford, Dodge, GMC, Chevrolet, Jeep, Mazda, Nissan, Honda, Mitsubishi, Toyota, & hundreds of other vehicles. Some of our top sellers include air filters, air intake kits, billet grilles, bug shields, bumpers, cargo liners, cargo management products, chrome trim accessories, grille guards, floor mats, mud flaps, rain guards/window visors, seat covers, pickup truck bed covers, tonneau covers, running boards, side steps, step bars, snow plows, roof racks, bike racks, truck and SUV racks, and much more! Accessories 4 Trucks offers millions of parts from hundreds of manufacturers and major brands. Brands like Access, A.R.E. Auto Ventshade,Bedslide, Cargoglide EGR, Go Industries, Husky Liner, K&N Filters, Lund, Nifty, Pop & Lock, Putco, Stampede, SnowSport, Trail FX, Weatherguard, Weathertech, Westin and hundreds more.

They have been selling quality truck, SUV, car and van accessories for over 20 years. They take pride in their products and knowing that their customers will be satisfied with the quality, durability, ease of operation and installation. Accessories 4 Trucks has a knowledgeable, friendly and professional staff that are standing by to answer any questions you may have. They want every customer that chooses them to get exactly what they need for their vehicle. The goal is to provide each customer with the best possible shopping experience for automotive accessories.

VOTED BEST AUTO SUPPLY Thank you to everyone who voted for us!

of th

2020

1813 1st St S, Willmar MN â&#x20AC;˘ 320-231-9715 Best of the Best 2020 | 23

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

AMBER BARBER LAKES AREA REALTY 42 S MAIN, NEW LONDON, MN 56273 320-212-8646 AMBER@LAKESAREAREALTY.COM

HOME Love Where You Live

Amber Barber- Realtor®

www.facebook.com/LARamber

24 | 2020 Best of the Best

Honored to have had your votes two years in a row! I can’t thank you enough and look forward to continuing to assist you with all of your real estate needs. - Amber Barber

320-212-8646

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISORS

JD KREPS FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 309 LAKELAND DR SE # 2 WILLMAR, MN (320) 235-8065 WWW.JDKREPS.COM/

In late 1998, Jonathan Kreps graduated from college with 100 names of his past lawn mowing and paper route customers and the tenacity he needed to start J.D Kreps Financial Group. However, those 100 names generated only 1 customer in 1999 and by the end of year one, Jonathan had only earned $2200 after expenses. While this was not what Jonathan had expected, he persevered through that tough first year and by the end of his second year, he hired his first employee, Heidi Gorans, who is still with him today. Combining his passion for serving clients, a strong work ethic, and the expertise gained in college, his firm began to grow. In 2004, Jonathan hired his second employee, Tanya Mayhew, as a Registered Sales Assistant. By the following year, the firm had outgrown its 450 square foot office, so Jonathan invested all of his savings into a new building across town. In 2005, the firm moved into their new office in its present location. Jonathan had a vision and believed the firm would flourish by providing the surrounding community what it needed: an independent financial planning firm committed to putting the clients’ interests first. And flourish it did! The combination of local expert advice and superior client service proved to be valued and word spread. Todd Ahrenholz came on as another advisor in 2009. Todd soon completed the rigorous

training needed to provide advice and began seeing clients as well. In 2010, Scott Lundy joined the team as a Registered Sales Assistant, and in 2013, Scott Kragh joined as yet another client facing advisor after completing his training. As the firm has grown, they continue to add staff to ensure the client service experience is enhanced. Currently, J. D. Kreps Financial Group, Inc. has 8 employees, including three CERTIFIED FINANICAL PLANNERS™. The firm has experienced very little employee turnover, and this consistency has proven to be appreciated by the other staff members as well as the clients. J. D. Kreps Financial Group is thankful and honored to celebrate their 20th year in business and are looking forward to the next 20 years! The firm’s mission is simple: To serve their clients in a way that is taught in Matthew 25. We are all simply stewards of what has been entrusted to us. Thank you for allowing our firm to serve you! For more information on J. D. Kreps Financial Group, please explore the web-site, call toll-free at 866-545-4685 or email at jdkrepsfinancialgroup@jdkreps.com/. 309 Lakeland Drive SE Unit 2 Willmar, MN 56201 | 320-235-8065 • www.jdkreps.com Securities and investment advisory services offered through SagePoint Financial, Inc. (SPF), member FINRA/SIPC. SPF is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of SPF. SPF does not provide tax or legal advice.

Best of the Best 2020 | 25

RUNNER UP- BEST HEARING AID CENTER

AMERICA’S BEST HEARING 1604 S 1ST ST, SUITE 10 WILLMAR, MN 56201 320-235-7244

Our mission at America’s Best Hearing is to help you achieve your best hearing and your best quality of life. We do this by combining the latest hearing instrument technology with old-fashioned service. It is an unrivaled patient experience in our office which translates to the optimal experience out in your world. With sixteen expert hearing centers, we provide a convenient location for everyone! • Knowledge • Compassion • Honesty Our audiologists and Hearing Instrument Specialists are what make our hearing center in Willmar stand out. Through their expertise, patients enjoy a lifetime of hearing care including learning about the latest technology in hearing care, receiving hearing evaluations, options for the best digital hearing aids, effective tinnitus treatment, hearing aid repair, hearing protection and more! It is the best hearing center in Willmar.

Thank you for all your votes! You’ll Love What You Hear after Your Visit With Us!

Hear Better. Live Better.

Roger Stephens, HIS

1604 S. 1st Street Suite 10 Willmar, MN 56201 • 320-208-5208 26 | 2020 Best of the Best

Our goal is to improve our patient’s quality of life through progressive hearing healthcare services, provided by our hearing professionals with compassionate care. As a patient, you’ll receive a lifetime of care, ensuring a lifetime of better hearing.

BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY

JANE VIKSE REAL ESTATE 145 LAKE AVE N SPICER, MN (320) 796-3003 WWW.JANEVIKSEREALESTATE.COM/

Jane Vikse Real Estate has been committed to providing you with the highest quality level of service since 2012. Jane started her office in downtown Spicer with her daughter JaLanny as an assistant. Through JaLannyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard work , experience, and education she went on to get her realtors license. It wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be long and Jasmine would join the team starting as an assistant and then becoming a realtor as well. Jane and her daughters are a family owned and operated business who are well known for their honesty, professionalism and ability to produce satisfying results. They take pride in everything they do and value honesty and integrity with all their clients. Whether you are buying or selling your home feel free to contact Jane Vikse Real Estate, they will be happy to help you with all your real estate needs!

Best of the Best 2020 | 27

AIM FOR SUCCESS AIM FOR S Uall C CaUeaV E S S of life. in in all aUeaV of life. AT ANFINSON THOMPSON , WE WANT TO HELP CLIENTS MAINTAIN FINANCIAL VIABILIT! IN THE PRESENT, WHILE TA ING AT ANFINSON THOMPSON , WE WANT TO HELPGOALS. CLIENTS A PROACTIVE APPROACH TO ACHIEVE F T RE MAINTAIN FINANCIAL VIABILIT! IN THE PRESENT, WHILE TA ING

+ APPROACH Tax Services A PROACTIVE TO ACHIEVE F T RE GOALS. + + + + + + + + + +

Financial Planning Strategies Tax Services Accounting Services Financial Planning Strategies Pa4roll Services Accounting Services Human Resources Solutions Pa4roll Services Retirement Planning Strategies Human Resources Solutions

an%insont'om-son.com | Willmar O%%iceStrategies (320) 23 -7491 + Retirement Planning an%insont'om-son.com | Willmar O%%ice (320) 23 -7491

28 | 2020 Best of the Best

MEET WITH A1 AD9ISOR TODAY MEET WITH A1

OFFICES IN

AD9ISOR TODAY

OFFICES IN + WILLMAR + STARB C + WILLMAR ST. JOSEPH + STARB C PA!NESVILLE + ST. JOSEPH MELROSE + PA!NESVILLE + MELROSE

BEST INSULATION CONTRACTORS/COMPANIES

THERMOSEAL INSULATION 19768 COUNTY ROAD 9 NE NEW LONDON, MN 320-905-7773

KEEPING YOUR COMFORT INSIDE If you enjoy staying warm in the winter and cool in the summer, • Rim Joists you’re in the right spot! ThermoSeal Insulation is a certified installer • Concrete of open and closed cell foam, open blow fiberglass, fiberglass batting • Walls and the blow in blanket system. What does this mean exactly? It • Ceilings means we can help you lower your energy bills with our professional • Crawl spaces insulation services. • And much more We’re your Trusted Insulation Contractor Stay warm and cozy this winter with our superior insulations. Get a It’s crucial to entrust your insulation job to a reliable and certified manufacturer’s warranty on our insulation work. Our quality insulation contractor like us. An amateur contractor can spoil your job and break services will reduce moisture, increase thermal performance, facilitate the bank. Our professionals are highly knowledgeable and skilled to better climate control, lower energy bills and more. Let’s talk about your next project! deliver great insulation services for your needs.

Best of the Best 2020 | 29

CONFIDENCE IN YOUR FUTURE Whether you are a current or

Willmar Office (320) 214-7837

prospective client, rest assured that individuals and businesses who choose Anfinson Thompson Financial Services receive competent and timely advice.

KNOWLEDGEABLE PROFESSIONALS Our dedication to high standards, hiring of

WORK WITH A TEAM THAT CARES ABOUT YOU By combining our e0perience and the

seasoned financial professionals, and work ethic is the reason our client base returns year after year.

team mentality of our staff, we assure that every client receives the close analysis and attention they deserve.

MEET WITH AN ADVISOR TODAY IN WILLMAR

Investment adviser representative and registered representative of, and securities and investment advisory services offered through Voya Financial Advisors, Inc. Member SIPC. Please log on to www.voya.com or www.voyafinancialadvisors.com for information regarding other products offered by Voya Financial Advisors, Inc. Not all products available in all locations. Anfinson Thompson Financial Services is not a subsidiary of nor controlled by Voya Financial Advisors. Anfinson Thompson Financial Services has been named runner up in the "Best Financial Advisors" category of the 2020 West Central Tribune Best of the Best Awards. This award is not representative of actual client e0periences or outcomes, and is not indicative of any past, present or future investment performance. For complete information regarding the criteria for selecting award winners, please refer to this publication and or the award website. CN13143 0 0821

30 | 2020 Best of the Best

BEST POOL & SPA DEALER

PARADISE POOLS & SPA KANDI MALL 1605 SOUTH 1ST ST. WILLMAR, MN 56201 (320) 235-5118 PARADISEWILLMAR.COM/

Paradise Pools & Spa has been in Willmar for 25 Years. In October of 2017 I became the new owner and completed the move to our new location in the Spring of 2019. We sell Hotspring hot tubs, Finnleo Saunas, Imagine pools, Optimum pools, Swim Spa endless pools, BioGuard water care products and pool related items. We offer pool and hot tub opening & closing services along with repair and installation services. We are a family owned and operated. We strive to help everyone with their needs and questions. I am not only the owner of the business but I also do the service plus each and every delivery and installation. I have been an entrepreneur for over 20 years and my best to be a people pleaser. I am very excited to have my family join me in my business so can learn and grow together. We strive to keep helping the community with all of their wellness needs.

Best of the Best 2020 | 31

BEST AREA MAGAZINE

LIVE IT!

2208 TROTT AVE SW WILLMAR, MN (320) 235-1150 WWW.WCTRIB.COM/ Life in west central Minnesota presents many options. From the farmland to the rolling hills and the prairie, the lakes and rivers, we have it all- we Live it! West central Minnesota offers a taste of city life through regional shopping and medical centers without all the hassles of big-city living - and many of the surrounding communities offer small town living at its best. There’s also rural living, as well as lake living. We have it all and we Live it! Life is busy and we all operate in our own circles and just as the lay of the land and the employment opportunities are varied across the region, so are the people. In this sprawling region known as west central Minnesota, do we really know who our neighbors are, what they do and what makes them who they are? In 2012, West Central Tribune Media launched Live it! And this was always our goal, to bring you up-close and personal look into the lives, homes, people and businesses in our region. We also had the goal of sharing tips and tidbits on many facets of life in west central Minnesota, as well as a glimpse into what’s happening across the region and that

Live it!

is what we have done for the last seven years. Giving you the up-close and personal look along with the tips and tidbits to why and how life in west central Minnesota… it’s a beautiful thing… Live it!

Live it!

FA L L 2 0 2 0 | FR E E I SSU E

Trash or Treasure? One person’s trash is another person’s treasure

| FREE ISSUE SPRIN G 2020

Love yourself

SUMM ER 2020 | FREE ISSUE

Enjoy crazy day s of summer righ t at home

Self-care vital y world in today’s bus

Vegetables galore DIY

Cho col ate

soul Good for the

Giving momentos new life

W OM EN I N B U SI N ESS

Live it! | Spring 2020

PAGE S 14- 22

Hot off the grill

Fresh, canned suggestions for garden veggies

Visu al art s A form of commu nicati on

Complete mea l, sides and dessert ideas

Live it! | Summer

BEST HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING COMPANY

CHAPPELL CENTRAL

2020 V1

Chappell Central

Incorporated

1950 TROTT AVE SW, WIMMAR, MN 56201 (320) 281-1647 • WWW.CHAPPELLCENTRAL.COM/ At Chappell Central We have earned the reputation of the “Warmest and Coolest People in Town” with over 80 years of experience, since 1939 in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) products. We can help you to identify, install, and maintain the right HVAC products for your home or business. Chappell’s service department is composed of eleven service technicians, a dispatcher, a parts room manager and a service manager. We stress continuing education that keeps them at the top of their field so they are competent repairing all models of heating and cooling equipment. Chappell Central, Inc. provides heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) products and services to homes in the West Central Minnesota area. From installation to service, we can help you to identify, install, and maintain the right HVAC products for your home. We are proud to be official dealers of high quality brands

Live it!

Backyard fun

including: Carrier, Lennox, Venmar, Wirsbo, WaterFurnace, AirAdvise and GeoComfort. In the commercial/industrial field, we install and repair large HVAC units, pneumatic and DDC controls, hydronic systems, and more. We also install and troubleshoot commercial boiler burners and commercial heat pumps, and repair light refrigeration systems. Commercial/industrial services are offered in approximately a 150 mile radius of Willmar. COMMERCIAL HVAC SERVICES INCLUDE: • All commercial/industrial HVAC equipment repair, including ground source 24/7 • Maintenance agreements • Commercial refrigeration • Design, maintenance, repair, and installation of DDC control systems • Maintenance and repair of pneumatic controls systems • Repair boiler burners

We truly appreciate you for making us your #1 choice 2 year’s in a row for the

Best Heating and Air Conditioning Company!

We are the warmest and coolest people in town Come check out our new location

Chappell Central

Incorporated 1950 Trott Ave SW, Willmar 56201

www.chappellcentral.com

320-281-1647

32 | 2020 Best of the Best

BEST BANK/CREDIT UNION

CO-OP CREDIT UNION

MONTEVIDEO OFFICE • 2407 E HIGHWAY 7, PO BOX 447 MONTEVIDEO MN 56265-0447 • 320-390-3202 CANBY OFFICE • 1003 ST OLAF AVE N, PO BOX 38 CANBY MN 56220-0038 • 507-218-0592 BENSON OFFICE • 1501 MINNESOTA AVENUE BENSON, MINNESOTA 56215 • 320-314-5144 WILLMAR OFFICE • 501 19TH AVE SE, PO BOX 669 WILLMAR, MINNESOTA 56201 • 320-337-1898 Co-op Credit Union was organized in 1940 when the co-operative movement was going strong in the rural areas. Nine People who believed in the co-op movement and the impact it had on the financial well-being of people met at the Co-op Grocery Store and the idea of a credit union was born. Co-op Credit Union of Montevideo was chartered by the Minnesota Commerce Department in April of 1940. Over the past 80 years, Co-op Credit Union has continued to grow. We have offices in Montevideo, Benson, Canby, and Willmar. Our field of membership include the counties of Chippewa, Swift, Lac Qui Parle, Kandiyohi, Renville, Yellow Medicine, Lincoln, and Lyon. Co-op Credit Union is a full-Service Financial institution. We offer savings accounts and checking accounts along with Certificates of deposits, Roth, and Traditional IRA’s and the Exclusive WINcentive Prize Linked Savings Accounts that only Credit Unions can offer. We offer loans for your Auto, Boat, RV, Mortgages, Secondary Mortgages and Credit Cards. Agriculture and Commercial lending are the heart of the Credit Union and we offer lines of credit, equipment purchases, and land purchases. To learn more about Co-op Credit Union, visit our website at www. co-opcreditunion.com/, visit one of our branches in Montevideo, Benson, Canby or Willmar, or give us a call at 800-967-1709.

A credit union is a not-for-profit financial cooperative. Unlike banks and other financial institutions, credit unions return profits to members in the form of fewer fees on services, lower rates on loans, higher returns on savings and personalized service. Credit unions exist to help people, not make a profit. Our goal is to serve all of our members well, including those of modest means - every member counts.

Thank You for your support! We are honored to be recognized for the BEST Bank/Credit Union.

co-opcreditunion.com Montevideo Office 2407 E Highway 7 Montevideo MN 56265 320.269.2117

Canby Office 1003 St Olaf Ave N Canby MN 56220 507.223.5737

Benson Office 1501 Minnesota Avenue Benson, Minnesota 56215 320.843.4210

Willmar Office 501 19th Avenue SE Willmar, Minnesota 56201 320.235.1573 Best of the Best 2020 | 33

BEST GROCERY STORE, BEST PHARMACY

CASH WISE 1300 5TH ST SE WILLMAR, MN 56201 320-235-2485

Founded in 1979, Cash Wise Foods in Willmar was the very first Cash Wise location. Originally located north of the Kandi Mall, Cash Wise built and opened its current location in 1984. Cash Wise Foods is a onestop shopping experience, offering groceries, liquor, convenience store and fuel center, car wash, pharmacy, dry cleaning drop-off service and so much more. One of the stores most popular features is it’s hand-made tortillas, made fresh every day right in the store. With low prices throughout the store, a huge selection of the freshest produce, meat, seafood, dairy, bakery and deli items, along with the very popular MORE Rewards savings program, shopping at Cash Wise is more than a great deal! Cash Wise Foods stores are located across Minnesota and North Dakota and are operated by Coborn’s, Inc., headquartered in St. Cloud, MN. The company continues to strive to provide remarkable service, low prices and selection to our guests.

THANK YOU

to our customers!

The West Central Tribune readers voted Cash Wise the Best in the following category:

[✔] The Best Grocery Store & Pharmacy

Check out www.cashwise.com to view our ads, check hours, and so much more! 1300 5th St. SE, Willmar, MN (320) 235-2485 3004_BestOf_080620

34 | 2020 Best of the Best

BEST CABINETS

CRONEN CABINET AND FLOORING 316 ATLANTIC AVE, KANDIYOHI, MN 56251 320-382-6336

Cronen Cabinet and Flooring has been making handcrafted cabinetry for 15 years and brought floorings into our product offering 10 years ago. Our new woodshop showroom and flooring store was built 7 years ago to assist our Customers in the design and selection process. We provide high quality custom cabinetry at a fair price with a wide selection of door styles and wood species. We are set apart from others because we are the only cabinet shop in West Central Minnesota that has a full service showroom that carries all types of floorcoverings. We are the home of the All Plywood Cabinet Box, there are no particles board products in our cabinets.

Thanks for voting us #1 Cabinets for the second year in a row!

Runner up for Best Flooring/Carpet Store CCFMN.COM

Best of the Best 2020 | 35

BEST AREA NEWSPAPER

WEST CENTRAL TRIBUNE 2208 TROTT AVE SW WILLMAR, MN (320) 235-1150 WWW.WCTRIB.COM/

For over 125 years the West Central Tribune has been providing local news, sports, entertainment, local government, school information, business and many more topics. A newspaper is so incredibly important to a city and the region, not just for its watchdog journalism but also for its community boostertism. Reading your local newspapers keeps you well informed and abreast of whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going on in your community. Our readers trust and expect we will bring them the local news they need to know and want to know. The power of print is still very important and effective both for news and advertising. Did you know the first newspaper advertisement was

36 | 2020 Best of the Best

published way back in 1704? For over 315 years local newspapers have had advertising in their papers, and our readers expect and anticipate them, it was effective then and it still is today. In a recent study about Community Newspapers Readers Are Engaged with Advertising done by the News Media, it found that 79% of the readers become aware of a product, service or sale. 68% buy a product or service and 71% visit a store whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s online or in-person. 78% of readers trust the ads in the newspaper. The local newspaper is a trusted source of your local news and advertising.

BEST USED CAR DEALER

KORONIS MOTORS 28601 HWY 55, PAYNESVILLE, MN 56362 877-241-9634

We believe in doing business by treating people the way we would want to be treated and we always remember that our customers are the reason we are all here. If you are the type of person who thinks that variety is the spice of life, then you will love the pre-owned selection at our dealership. We have Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles that have gone through the rigorous 172-point inspection needed to obtain that label. The CPO vehicles also come with a 12-month/12,000-mile Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty and a six-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty. We also have a sizeable inventory of used vehicles from some of the more popular brands in the world, including Dodge, GMC, Nissan, and Toyota. In addition our customers can have peace of mind, as each used automobile on our lot comes with a complimentary CARFAX Vehicle History Report or AutoCheck Vehicle History Report.

Best of the Best 2020 | 37

RUNNER UP- BEST FUNERAL HOME

WING-BAIN FUNERAL HOME 418 N 5TH ST MONTEVIDEO, MN 56265 595 14TH AVE GRANITE FALLS, MN 56241 320-564-2343 227 S. MAIN ST CLARA CITY, MN 56222 320-847-3144

Our story begins in 1962, when Richard (Dick) and Dorothy Wing purchased Nerison Furniture and Funeral Service from Carl Nerison in Montevideo. Dick was a graduate of the College of Mortuary Science and had years of experience with notable firms in Minneapolis, Minnesota before following his dream to own a funeral home. Eventually, Dick and Dorothy sold the furniture business and relocated to the present location at 5th and Black Oak Avenue. The building itself was remodeled to accommodate the funeral business as well as a private family dwelling for the Wing family. They raised their three children- Beth, Rick & Cynthia in the funeral home before moving to a private residence in the mid 1980s. In 1974, Dick purchased DeGrote Funeral home in Clara City and in 1979, Cynthia (nee Wing) and her husband, Everett H. Bain entered into partnership with the Wings. Wing-Bain purchased the Hamre Funeral Home in Granite Falls, MN in 1982 and in the early 1990s, Everett and Cynthia purchased all three funeral home locations allowing Dick and Dorothy Wing to retire. In 2018, Sherri and Duane Stamps purchased the Wing-Bain Funeral Home from Everett and Cynthia. Everett continues to serve the community in which he loves and calls home. Along with Sherri, Duane and Everett is Joseph Anderson

who has been with the Wing-Bain Funeral Home for over 25 years. Throughout the years, Wing-Bain Funeral Home has been extremely fortunate to have numerous dedicated staff assist in the daily operations. Among these have been Walter and Nellie Kruger, Jim Palm, Greg Zniewski, Karl Pfaff, Norma Bourne, Lyle Olson, Cole Sabe, Troy Diggins and Linda Haff. Current licensed directors are Sherri Stamps, Everett H. Bain and Joseph W. Anderson. This dedicated team takes great pride in assisting community members with the difficult task of arranging for their loved oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s final tribute and offering expert assistance in pre-planning and prefinancing traditional funeral and cremation/memorial services. Since its inception in 1962, Wing-Bain Funeral Home has seen many changes, but its underlying foundation and commitment has been to provide the community with the highest quality funeral service including compassionate, professional guidance, with strict attention to detail, regardless of family means or circumstance. We take great pride in the service we provide and hold the confidence placed in us in the highest regard.

Thank you to everyone that voted for us!

320-847-3144 38 | 2020 Best of the Best

320-564-2343 320-269-8425 www.wingbain.com

BEST AUCTIONEER

FLADEBOE COMPANIES

1700 TECHNOLOGY DR NE SUITE 210, WILLMAR, MN 56201 320-212-9379 Fladeboe Companies offers services in two specialized divisions: nonprofit benefit auctions and donor engagement services and farmland real estate services. Siblings Glen Fladeboe and Kristine Fladeboe Duininck are proud to continue the family business their parents, Dale and Grace, started in 1978.

RUNNER- UP- OIL CHANGE

FATTY DADDY AUTO REPAIR 401 BENSON AVE SE, WILLMAR, MN 56201 320-235-1672

We’ve served the Willmar area for over a decade. Driven by honesty and quality service; we strive to earn our place in the hearts of our customers and community. Look around and learn more about our shop before making your appointment for service or accessories. Far too often the big brand auto shops will tell you that you need a whole list of repairs when you really don’t. We extensively evaluate your vehicle and determine only relevant problems. We won’t try to sell you blinker fluid.

We are honored to be Voted the Best Auctioneer

Thank you to everyone that voted!

Our Family Serving Families for Over 42 Years!

For more information call Kristine at 320-212-9379 www.FladeboeLand.com

Farmland Professionals Since 1978

COMPLETE MAINTENANCE TO REPAIR + Accessories, Remote Starts and Interlock Devices Thanks for voting us in your top 3 Oil Change!

320-235-1672 • 401 Benson Ave SE, Willmar

BEST LANDSCAPE, BEST GREENHOUSE/NURSERY, BEST SNOW REMOVAL

I&M LANDSCAPING 2801 30TH ST SW, WILLMAR, MN 56201 320-235-4320

Wow! Everyone at I & M sends out a huge “thank you” for voting us the best in our area of work! We have been installing creativity for 44 years now! We specialize in custom landscape, hardscape and color concrete. We also have a full retail store where we have a flourishing greenhouse full of beautiful annuals, May -June, as well as landscape products on hand. We offer flower pot design and install as well. Making beautiful flowers a part of your life, let us do the dirty work for you! You can either drop off your planters or well come to you. Please give us a call! Thanks again for the votes, our customers are the true #1s!! Thank you for trusting us to serve you, for your loyal business and for voting us number one in; Landscaping • Greenhouse •Snow removal

THANKS!

Thankful for the support of the World’s Best Customers! Our small family business is grateful for you and your votes! Thanks for voting us your number one! Best Landscape / Greenhouse / Snow Removal

“The ONLY Limitation is your Imagination” 2801 30th St SW | Willmar, MN 56201 | 320-235-4320

iandmlandscaping.com Best of the Best 2020 | 39

Voted Best

USED CAR DEALER

Voted Runner Up

BEST CAR DEALERSHIP Chevrolet & Buick Dealer

WWW.PAYNESVILLECHEVROLET.COM

Voted Best

FISH HOUSE DEALER

ORDER YOUR CUSTOM FISH HOUSE TODAY

Thank you for all your votes! Certified Service

320-243-3716

28601 St. Hwy. 55 • Paynesville, MN

SALES • SERVICE • AUTOBODY

PreNatal Care • Pediatric Care • Massage • Guasha Cranial Sacral Therapy • Acupuncture Sport and DOT Physicals • Ion Detox Foot Bath

Chiropractic Care For All Ages

RENVILLE OFFICE

(320) 329-8185 42 | 2020 Best of the Best

WILLMAR OFFICE

(320) 235-7347

Proud to be voted #1 Chiropractic Office!! We appreciate your business!

GRANITE FALLS OFFICE

(320) 564-1209

BEST CHIROPRACTIC OFFICE

HINDERKS CHIROPRACTIC 2630 1ST ST S SUITE 103, WILLMAR, MN 56201 â&#x20AC;¢ 320-235-7347 WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/HINDERKSCHIROWILLMAR

Since 2014, Hinderks Chiropractic has been providing the West Central area with affordable and effective family chiropractic care. Our primary goal is serving our patients to keep them well through specific treatment plans customized to each individual patient, old or young! In addition to chiropractic services, we offer massage therapy, acupuncture, detoxifying foot soaks, DOT physicals and sports

physicals. It is our goal that when you walk out of our clinics you feel informed about your condition and confident in the course of action we are taking to improve it. We look forward to serving you soon at any of our locations in Willmar, Renville or Granite Falls. Sincerely, Dr. Jeremy Hinderks

Best of the Best 2020 | 43

BEST GAS STATION/CONVENIENCE STORE

KWIK TRIP

2550 HWY 12 E AND 2000 1ST ST. S WILLMAR, MN 56201 320-235-2132 AND 320-235-2149 KWIKTRIP.COM/ Founded in 1965, Kwik Trip, Inc. is one of the largest independently held convenience store chains in the United States. Dedicated to service and making a difference in the lives of customers, Kwik Trip owns and operates over 650 store in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa and employs over 23,000 people. With an emphasis on vertical integration, the company also operates its own kitchen, bakery, and dairy and maintains its own distribution center and fleet under the Convenience Transportation name. Today, Kwik Trip is annually recognized as a top workplace and continues to grow through new initiatives through a strong focus on food and value priced commodities.

44 | 2020 Best of the Best

BEST PLACE TO WORK

KANDIYOHI COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE 2201 23RD ST NE WILLMAR, MN (320) 214-6700 WWW.KCMN.US

The Kandiyohi County Sheriff’s Office has operated as a single sheriff’s office for 151 years. In Minnesota, sheriff’s are elected officials serving as chief law enforcement officers for the county. We are active in law enforcement, the courts, and corrections. In law enforcement we have the responsibility and power of: making arrests; patrolling functions; doing investigations; transporting prisoners; and doing neighborhood watches. In the court system we: make sure the courthouse is safe & secure; serve court papers; and enforce decrees. In the jail/corrections system we are responsible for supervising inmates and protecting their rights. Our office strives to understand different leadership styles and grow from that. It is our goal to transform the agency through our personal energy, persuasiveness and integrity to make a shared vision come true. The Kandiyohi County Sheriff’s Office will strive to meet the ever-changing needs of our community.

THE KANDIYOHI COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE WILL BE RESPONSIVE TO ALL RESIDENTS BY SERVING AND PROTECTING THE PUBLIC. MISSION FIRST, PEOPLE ALWAYS WHILE STRIVING FOR EXCELLENCE.

Voted

Best Place t0

Work! Dedicated to keeping our communities a safe place to live

KANDIYOHI COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE Best of the Best 2020 | 45

“Thank you for trusting us to serve you, for your business and this significant recognition”

Voted Best In: MATTRESSES FURNITURE & HOME FURNISHING 2614 1st St S, Willmar, MN 56201 | 320-231-0450 | www.slumberland.com

BEST MATTRESSES & FURNITURE STORE, HOME FURNISHING

SLUMBERLAND 2614 1ST ST S WILLMAR, MN 56201 320-231-0450

Our mission is to improve the life of each customer. We strive to uphold this promise through our products, our service, and our company values: To work with honesty and integrity To treat one another with love, dignity, and respect To be good citizens We are thrilled when a customer battling aches and pains or fullfledged insomnia finds the mattress that will allow her to sleep soundly at night. We take pride in providing your family with furniture that will create a home filled with love and comfort. And we remember those in our community who are less fortunate by donating a percentage of our earnings to charitable organizations and by hosting our annual Homes for the Holidays event that provides new beds to those in need. In this way, we hope to share our expertise and good fortune and to remain focused on what counts—friends, family, and happy, healthy homes. THE EARLY YEARS Ken Larson was just 25 when the first Slumberland store opened in Richfield, Minnesota. It was 1967: a movie ticket cost $1.25, a gallon of gas was 33 cents, and a Slumberland “21-piece King-sized Mattress Package” (which included a mattress, two box springs, a frame, a headboard, sheets, a blanket, pillows, and a bedspread) cost $299. Slumberland was established on a new trend in mattresses—the “sleep store,” that specialized in, well, sleep. Prior to the sleep store, people could only purchase mattresses at furniture or department stores, and there were few options. Couples slept on two twin-sized beds (think Lucy and Ricky in the famous television program, I love

Lucy) or together in full-sized beds, which still today offer each person a sleeping space equivalent to that of a baby in a crib. Sleep stores such as Slumberland not only sold larger mattresses (enter the queen and king) and sleeper sofas, but also provided sleep experts—sales representatives with specialized knowledge in finding the right mattress for each individual or couple based on body size, sleep habits, and other needs. Essentially, the “science of sleep” had been born. EXPANSION–TODAY Our first product expansion was a natural fit: La-Z-Boy recliners. (After all, people do a lot of sleeping in their recliners.) Founded in Michigan in 1927 by cousins Edward M. Knabusch and Edwin J. Shoemaker (who, incidentally, created their first mock-up out of orange crates), La-Z-Boy promoted quality and value. Its products resonated with Slumberland customers, and today we are one of the nation’s top sellers of La-Z-Boy upholstery. We soon identified another area in which to expand: bedroom furniture. Our clients required not only mattresses and bedframes, but also dressers, nightstands, and other items for the bedroom. This ultimately led to a limited array of whole-house furniture and accessories. As our product line expanded, so did our reach. We now have more than 120 stores in 12 states throughout the Midwest. We are still familyowned with Ken’s son, Kenny, at the helm, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to provide quality, stylish furniture that is easy to love, easy to maintain, and easy on the pocketbook.

Best of the Best 2020 | 47

BEST CONTRACTOR, BEST ROOFING COMPANY

LAYMAN CONSTRUCTION 600 28TH AVE SW WILLMAR, MN (320)235-2633

I’m Jon Layman, owner of Layman Construction. I am proud to have been serving this area for over 20 years. The relationships with homeowners are what matters most to me. I listen closely to what they are looking for and keep in constant communication with them as the construction progresses. I strive to build quality homes, additions and remodels. No job is too small. I want to end up with a customer that will come back to me for their next project. Myself and my crew take great pride in our work by being highly trained, working together as a team, and using quality materials. As in every project there will be changes so it is very important to keep the lines of communication open so all parties are satisfied with the end result. I would be glad to meet with you to discuss your ideas. Let’s sit down and talk about it!

We Build Dreams

PROUD TO BE YOUR BUILDER!

Winner in

• New Homes • Remodeling • Siding

• Shingling • Windows • Doors Jon Layman

320-235-2633 320-220-0762 License #BC569497

48 | 2020 Best of the Best

BEST CONTRACTOR BEST ROOFING COMPANY catergories

Runner Up in

HOME EXTERIOR CONTRACTOR HOME BUILDER categories

BEST HEARING AID CENTER

MIRACLE EAR 2211 S 1ST ST SUITE #140 WILLMAR, MN 56201 320-407-1264

Miracle Ear- Willmar, Voted Best Hearing Aid Center, By the Willmar Tribune readers. We are grateful for your votes. We credit our Team for the exceptional personalized care for all our patients. We focus on details to getting you back in touch with your loved ones and friends. Never any pressure, Sound advice, thorough evaluations and unending service. Miracle Ear is celebrating 73 years of hearing aid service with over 1500 locations nationwide. Our Franchise services most of central Minnesota with full time offices in Willmar, Alexandria and Saint Cloud. We Offer a Complete line of hearing aids, accessories, and batteries. We offer FREE hearing evaluations, and would be happy to let you demonstrate a solution that will work for your hearing troubles. We service ALL makes and models, as well as a personalized and individual approach to finding a solution and we create a follow up plan for all hearing losses. We specialize in Hearing Aids and related service. There is never a fee for in house service, and never an obligation to purchase, We are here to help. If you are struggling to hear others or staying connected to loved ones. Give us a call. We service All Brands of aids. We look forward to seeing you soon.

You Voted, We Heard!

Proud to be your Best Hearing Aid Center! Free Hearing tests available

Call to set up a time!

Willmar

2211 South 1st, Suite 140 Willmar, MN 56201

320-262-3313 | miracleearwillmar@gmail.com Best of the Best 2020 | 49

for making us #1 two years in a row!

FARM DRAINAGE DIRECTIONAL BORING Best equipment to do the best job! Anywhere you don’t want to dig! • Since 1972 • Water management • 3”–24” boots • Tiling fields

• Roads & parking lots • Plowing hdpe pipe • Lagoons • Repair crew

• Geothermal • Waterline • Electric line • Boring roads

• Boring hdpe pipe • On grade specializing • Bore from 4” & up

13201 195th St. SE, Lake Lillian, MN 56253

320-905-8645 • 320-894-3374 50 | 2020 Best of the Best

BEST FARM DRAINAGE/TILLING

LITZAU FARM DRAINAGE INC 13201 195TH ST. SE LAKE LILLIAN, MN 56253 320-905-8645 â&#x20AC;˘ 320-894-3374

Litzau Farm Drainage has been around since 1972. The lead guys have a combined experience of over 150 years in the drainage industry, we can help. From the small tile to big tile or where grade matters most because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flat; if another contractor says no, give us a call. We also do directional boring including geothermal, waterline and electric line to name a few. We have the top of the line equipment to get the job done. From free flow systems, to lift pumps, we will get your water drained and help with water management on your farm. We work 7 days a week when you need us. -Mike Litzau

Best of the Best 2020 | 51

BEST BAKERY

BEST CLEANING SERVICE

21 MAIN STREET N 320-354-2243

320-212-6126 WWW.MSKAYS.COM/

NEW LONDON BAKERY

MISS KAYS CLEANING

Satisfy your sweet tooth with our outstanding variety of freshly At Miss Kays Cleaning Service we like to think of all our customers baked goodies. New London Bakery is a community bakery located in as family. the heart of downtown New London. Stop in for some tasty treats and We know Your home is where your heart is. We strive to offer quality bread and buns. cleaning to Miss Kay’s standard. While keeping the price low with our Save time — call ahead we’ll have your order ready for pickup. low price guarantee. Miss Kay offers weekly, bi-weekly, monthly cleaning services as well as one-time cleanings such as moving, renting, or getting ready for the holiday season. We also offer cleaning for businesses as well. Call Miss Kays Cleaning Services today 320-212-6126 Miss Kay Cleaning Service bringing time back to families.

Every Day is a Blessing Some Days Are Sweeter than Others!

Thank You for Voting us Best Bakery and Allowing Us to Be Part of Your Day!

320-354-2243 21 Main Street N. New London, MN Hours: Tuesday - Friday 6:30am - 4:00pm Saturday 6:30am - 1pm 52 | 2020 Best of the Best

Ms. Kay’s Services LLC Professional Cleaning

Commercial and Residential

Thanks for making us #1!

Call for a free estimate

320-212-6126

BEST AREA SHOPPER

SUNDAY REMINDER 2208 TROTT AVE SW WILLMAR, MN (320) 235-1150

RUNNER UP- NON PROFIT ORGANIZATION

WOODLAND CENTERS

ADDRESS PHONE A free publication delivered every Saturday to over 15,000 homes WEB

in Kandiyohi county and our surrounding communities. The Reminder is filled with local grocery ads, auctions, recipes, retail sales flyers, coupons, job postings, classifieds and service directories. The Reminder reaches more homes in West Central Minnesota weekly than any other marketing product in the area, giving you the ability to reach more customers to move sales. By advertising in a weekly publication gives you the frequency needed to brand yourself to local consumers. The Reminder is affordable to advertise in, priced at less than 1 cent per household to advertise.

Woodland Centers is a private, nonprofit community mental health center established in 1958. We offer services in Adult, Youth, Crisis, Residential, Behavioral Health and Mental Health First Aid. We serve seven rural counties in west central Minnesota - Chippewa, Big Stone, Kandiyohi, Lac qui Parle, Meeker, Renville, and Swift - with offices in each of those counties. Our main office is located in Willmar. We are proud to be celebrating 60 years of providing high quality mental health services in our communities.

RUNNER UP- DENTAL OFFICE

WEST CENTRAL DENTAL 1412 WILLMAR AVE SE, WILLMAR, MN 56201 320-231-1739

We are a dental practice devoted to personalized treatment and our team is committed to keeping you comfortable while providing the highest quality of dental care. It is our goal is to educate all of our patients in order to form long-lasting relationships founded on trust. We want to empower you to make healthy dental choices for a smile that lasts a lifetime. At West Central Dental, your comfort is our priority. Make yourself at home in our patient lounge, refresh yourself with coffee or tea, and relax with our entertainment options. We can provide you with headphones so you can listen to your favorite tunes while you visit or catch up on Netflix during your treatment.

Dr. Ross G. Olness, DDS

Dr. Jake Stricherz, DDS

1412 Willmar Ave SE Willmar MN 320-231-1739 westcentraldental.com

Thank you for your votes! WOODLAND CENTERS IS OPEN AND ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS (VIA TELE-MED) Our staff are here to help you, your family, your friends, and our communities in Renville, Swift, Chippewa, Meeker, Kandiyohi, Lac Qui arle, and Big Stone Counties.

Call us at 320-23 -4613 or 24 7 Crisis Line at 00-432- 7 1 woodlandcenters.com or follow us on

Thanks to everyone who voted for us! Best of the Best 2020 | 53

BEST CASINO PRAIRIE’S EDGE CASINO RESORT 5616 PRAIRIES EDGE LANE GRANITE FALLS, MN 56241 320-564-2121 | TOLL FREE 866-293-2121 WWW.PRAIRIESEDGECASINO.COM/

Prairie’s Edge Casino Resort first opened its doors in March 2003, formerly Firefly Creek Casino. It is our mission and we strive to be the Friendliest Casino Resort in the Midwest. We are large enough to have everything you want and small enough to know our guests by name. We know you will enjoy your stay! We invite you to come visit us! While you are here, enjoy the best and the most exciting 24-hour gaming action with over 1,000 of the newest and hottest video slots, plus we have the largest selection of your favorite classic coin machines in Minnesota. Our offerings also include, live Table Games and two Non-Smoking Gaming Areas. From our 24-hour deli, to our famous Seafood Buffet, we are sure to satisfy your appetite. After a long day of gaming action, relax in one of our 160 luxurious hotel rooms or spacious suites or pull-in and spend the night at the PrairieView RV Park. Be sure to also check out our ALL NEW Non-Smoking Expansion! This new area is the largest selfcontained Non-Smoking Gaming Area with its own HVAC system in Minnesota! In addition to the gaming expansion, the main floor is home to

54 | 2020 Best of the Best

the new Prairie Tap House & Café offering twenty-four draft beers and a stage for live entertainment. Catch all your favorite games on our all new High Definition LED video wall, the centerpiece of our main floor expansion. The Sunset Lounge & Patio is located on the second floor of our Non-Smoking expansion and features a large outdoor rooftop patio and offers sixteen draft beers. We’re sure we have just what you need for the perfect getaway!

BEST FUNERAL HOME

PETERSON BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME 700 BECKER AVENUE SOUTHWEST WILLMAR, MN 56201 320-1351651

Peterson Brothers Funeral Home was founded in 1889; making it one of the oldest family owned businesses in Kandiyohi County. Peterson Brothers is current operated by the fifth generation of the Peterson family. At Peterson Brothers Funeral Home, we take great pride in caring for our families, and will work tirelessly to provide you with a beautiful, lasting tribute to your loved one. In addition to the services we offer, you will receive an online memorial that you can share with family and friends. While honoring your loved one is our top priority, we also want to help you through this difficult time. We have a wide range of resources to support you not only today, but in the weeks and months to come.

PETERSON BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME

is honored to be your #1 choice in Funeral Homes! In your time of need, you can trust us for assistance and guidance in every aspect of your loved oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s final arrangements.

Atwater - Spicer - Sunburg - Willmar 700 Becker Ave SW | Willmar, MN 56201 | www.petersonbrothers.com | (320) 235-1651 Best of the Best 2020 | 55

BEST MANUFACTURING COMPANY

WEST CENTRAL STEEL INC 110 19TH ST NW WILLMAR, MN 56201 800-992-8853

West Central Steel, Inc. helps manufacturers and fabricators grow their business by providing carbon steel distribution and parts processing. Since 1949, it has evolved from a steel scrap yard to a steel distributer and parts manufacturer. The company is known for being responsive, reliable and innovative in helping customers grow. As a steel distributor, West Central Steel purchases steel from steel mills throughout the country by the truckload, railcar or barge load. Then sells the steel to manufacturers and fabricators in the five-state area. Many times, the steel is delivered the next day. This allows companies to save money with reduced inventory and lower material handling costs. West Central Steelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parts processing capabilities include saw, torch, plasma and laser cutting for both flat and three-dimensional steel shapes. In addition to cutting, parts can be formed with press brakes capable of bending steel up to 1 inch thick, 30 feet wide. In 2018, the company opened the largest expansion yet with an 85,000 square foot parts processing facility. The new facility contains cutting edge technology to save customers time and money. As an example, a manufacturer recently saved over 1,000 production hours by having West Central Steel use its automated equipment. Investing in the future is integral to the way West

Central Steel does business whether it is in their people, equipment or the community. The company is involved in two workforce development initiatives, Kandiyohi Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities (KCEO) and Manufacturing and Processing Careers (MAP) with area high schools. With manufacturing jobs in high demand, the programs expose high school students to the great jobs in the community and strengthen the manufacturing base in the area.

GROW YOUR CAREER FASTER As a steel distributor and parts manufacturer, we are known for having the steel you need and the people, equipment and processing to help you and your business grow.

Thank you to our employees, customers and community for the honor of being the 2020 Best of the Best Manufacturer! 56 | 2020 Best of the Best

wcsteel.com

BEST WELL DRILLING

THEIN WELL 11355 HWY 71 NE SPICER, MN (320) 796-2111 WWW.THEINWELL.COM/

Thein Well was founded in 1893 when Eugene Thein started to dig wells by hand to help support his family in Clara City, Minnesota. 126 years later the Thein family is still in the business in doing what they do best, providing the consumer with clean, fresh water in a safe and timely manner. Today Bob and Mike Thein, who are 4th generation owners, along with two nephews, Andrew and Zach, and Mike’s son, Tony continue Eugene Thein’s legacy. In total, Thein Well operates with over 20 full-time employees, who have years of experience and training. They are licensed to operate in Minnesota, North and South Dakota, Iowa, Wisconsin and Nebraska by providing services in residential, municipal, irrigation, livestock, and poultry well construction, complete pump design, installation and service, environmental drilling, geothermal drilling and water conditioning. Thein Well continues to give it’s customer the best products and service all while keeping the cost reasonable. This has been and is continuing to be accomplished by improving efficiency in operation, being innovative and using advanced technology to better service our communities.

Thein Well Company

P.O. Box 778 Spicer, MN 56288 800-450-8000 www.theinwell.com THANK YOU FOR VOTING US #1 IN WELL DRILLING! Best of the Best 2020 | 57

,M AR

Stin

INN

U Y, A DA

B1.

O $2.O

0 202 20,

LE T T LI A G TLY N I N REN AY R A LE DIFFE ACCR M AT

for ed pos . A3. o r n fp io elie oduct r ic r em rint p d n p Pa edia lm . loca WIL

los

sc ger

ut t

o ing

on eas

ters

u / Re the ue arq epts day am es acc f., Wedn largely li a e D-C ation r the om th in fo fr ris, Har al nom vered ention eli onv ala enti d m Ka resid eech nal C are. p e sp tor o w c ena ice Nati , Dela . S tic v ptan tic n U.S ocra acce mocra ingto Deming an 20 De Wilm dur al 20 nter in e virtu se C Cha in L

Kev

is arr H ala istor m Ka kes h ma

ma e enc e pet , th f id om inc afra es us to feelss makt. And nod ne a lo e ca VP an, It’s g: w ese ve m d s gi k wo n on thin and he m ter re,” s n De t Blac erica et k mo Right t firs n-Am ial tic “ n a d ide n s a e Asi sident pr edie ant s g ph pre t r a p on Oli eside es ea it . e Jam n Wh ters U.S w resid y B Joh Reu — rris p lle N Ha at- cha TO ING ala ocr ice she SH Kam Dem v , a A n r W or a y the n fo esda at Sen epted atio edn untry in W acc nomint on e co resi- W p ic siden g th iden onald ne u e D B in r b r r g ade ri p Joe sin plo al T RAY s im elect accu ed le live C entr l, st C MAC ode to t and f fail cost We n p o had o / ay at brid m e an in d h om o um that ods. isc nesd al hy w r D T o k ti c ca h ed ar an Eri ship liveli st Bla eric ide e W hap by tos n tim d wit nd e fir -Am pres u o a h P Th Asian .S. ris s sitio ene U ar tran ich op or and ajor t, H fe st h ga e m urin hool, w ways. a ick her li the A sd l t ing igh sc e hall tia rized tic of the r e n ov he h in th ma blema am o Dem c ec fac ool. T tra em dre the ent n ring sch foot ica of Conv m wea k of mit Tru day ional hile st wee s to li ld t w h a a s e r inute N Don ders hall “ f lea liv the uring thveral m o d h n e r g a u . rou City d ver se es said th v li alk lara es o rris r U Ha orme b ts w in C n tim O F io den ool o n ack Stu h Sch transit chin m Bar ventio Hig ggers Dis trib.co a con s as h sta e Erico@wc r r y o o u t f B hin y d c Cit rent year ic. r is f a le r d e e d Cla diff s this ndem dea , m pa oks ent rus A g lo stud D-19 rted time Y nin ta t VI and l ear CCRA e CO nts s firs f e o bad MA to th stude or th odel hool f c wo due hool eek rid m in-s . c is w hyb ines ning , hs c Hig ool th rtial omb lear a City n c a a e sch h a p that tanc Clar er th the in is li h ar wit n wit ning nd d ool r t se h lea ses a h sc lasse assis ructio s l t c ig o s cla he h gan ar t con artia s p T u be is ye ure 00 h a avir h ich ut wh mal t for f ed wit coron r 10,0 hi e nor edule open since 10 p ndiyo sch jects, odel than d Ka Aug. Y n e pro rid m mor wa a to an CCRA tim e A ry C hyb es are hipp rding by M iso r cas oth C acco ided adv lara ”o n , b her l in C roup eve green nt in nties prov . s g s e “ mou e. in choo n g cou pdat hools grade ned sf dur e nc ea u ds igh S gre -learn 15 lic Sc ts in assig ce th g at o in H the nce rea e b Pu tuden 12 are redu uildin ts ar day ta ent, RAY of s S tud ACC a part nd dis gh ays to the b tuden edne y s u o e M a a d is t s thr e” d ts in ool s nd W ursd s ng sday -gra y a h a n e “blu tude h sc sday on Th dent a 0th sda eLo u s a 1 edne ool. D Wedn of en hig Tue learn e st Y has W ch ng, lu n nd Gre ool o nce- ile b CCRA eLo ends k of s ays a D h a A h t l t d e h hoo o and sc dis ay, w e. M ek. we ues en nna and Frid posit ol we ts ar ding, r Ha re sc e rst l on T a p and the o scho paren e buil o we g befoing th schoo k. t do r-day s and of th ired terin s dur rns in e wee a th fou isitor side requ ore en udent res le t of V ed in nt is Bef st ratu res w e rs, g. de allo h stu verin eache temp eac ce co ing, t their a a f build have 2 A f the staf age nts me t and Y: P pay Swif RA CC n m lth loa y fro H e a 0 MA 0 t l a oun 0,0 n nu o 0 c 1 s n $ a n e o o to th y - B e d a als t s t n ear . It C o u n es a ers list y n s e vic sio ar fiv eed g. Ser levy. mmis e-ye endext se n ndin at m mo x iv n f c a m o o t o o e th the ers y nb Th ed a rec ing c isin ress ely o sion esda pt cts u ild dmin aid r is ado proje e bu A add not mm on T men s co ill th g nf nty om te k er an ated w The meetinwo reche couittee oed by e. Cou ey Baommitas l p t t e c ls ph ear estim heir oved rom comm ding mitt r Ke ing e t y h il t r ild o f d e rat buil ded e bu app ions ding e bu t Fiv ails an n in h en r th bon o ate he dat buil ss t cre r t comm h fo e of det milli ents s e ty’ addr to d fo re lac oac $8.3 rovem ed un itial- appr in p eny to ds. gre e f m erv A2 ds Ch trib.co t nee ey a nanc ill in pping nee imp age if m Th inte It w y ta erve wc Sw To S: P a N e s b . By eny@ h e T Com ay a m work ded m r nding PLA CL erv h — f n tc o f r o g f u y the A5 esd - the e fu C ON a r d b e Tu 0 b in NS B1 BE y Bo on d, fiv he ly 00,00 Ongo ided t t ov $ 5 ds. un ners phase ess r o p C sio a ddr eeds. g fun l be a is d m pte S to wil g n stin RD ado plan uildin inve ,000 CO r b 5 RE RTS yea ty’s for 8,39 O A2 n s $ SP cou call ted 4 a A It im est an ER ATH WE ION IN OP

pts s o d n ty a g pla n u in o t C build f i Sw sed pha

ters

u / Re the ue arq epts day s cc , a dne ely alif. n We e larg the o nati d for th from e ntion r e v ve Con re. wa ela

Lam

s rri Ha ory t his

us kes ma llous . e a e lon enc e c pet , th feel a s the m id o ’ inc afra es us here betto feelss makt. And n do much ne a lo e ca e so v a n, It’s g: w eser . ave id d thin and he sa we h s our on l , ter re,” s now turn litica t e k mo Right t who o po be a t “ ur en ill d s o sid s in w t an pre edie . Joe turn ose,” han es g p o s a tr pon t wh pur from esid a o t e n g . e in kin room U.S w esid es a f ll ers — rris pr lleng , spe el ba wn o a a t N TO la H rat- ch e said re ho meto are. c ma emo vice sh auste ’s ho elaw D n D , n e , r a id olls on he n fo esday y in B ingt in p p in m atio Wedn ountr ad rum the c resi- Wil n aheads T ead of ered t o the p n ld e t h le en na ng e Bid g Do er- Bid iden olls a , bols ong p d n B o am ght J ccusind lea lives ion lectio ad , ou a e opin . 3 e ig le . Thr t i o n nd f fail cost o n Nov a b oters n v e n ealed ad . a p h v c o app m at om s y en e th hood ck w n on b omen h e om t li la rica en- w hav se w t i n g e B s v t h t d li firs Ame resid m- o u t ocra o tho h l i g ship r t e h i g onso nce Th Asian .S. p ris su as Dem ctly le y U p e r f r nd ajor , Ha e sto er- dir e r s , co-s rk Vio ct o m f a A sals et ot m s a ick her li the A third v en’ ndm en o id la l t om prop and tia rized tic of the cratic B the W e r is n re of inst d h ma blema am o Demo . dca h ca n n lt hil ga em dre the entio fail- A 94 a ter c y hea e n t 19 s il vic ica of Conv mp’ s cos bols fam u m y l e a o t s Tr ip h ods,” t da iona fro s. tec ho ld t h pro vision , w Biden had Na Dona ders eliho e a o t s h r “ f lea a n m liv uld p ba t w said p wo ly, ide e o d O s n n e e e r h a r s , t u id. esid 017 . P rum eriou ht es liv ris sa U.S a told fail- pr 09-2 hat T s weig r r s r b d t ’ 0 e a a m ve 2 p e jo d a H orm Ob Trum ssor h ple hope the el th disco an F e ic n eo ack cce ke to f e, and mer A Bar ventio is su 00 p navi- ta s come offic e for ’t con s as h 170,0 coro t job e asn nc th e p h job ure to m th of los tation of evere cy. um he d the a r ocra ld Tr t led d fro ons repu An f li in o demDona into an’t. dea , mil rica’s hed s c “ n e da rus Ame inis nce re,” ure - grow se h e que seve ally and ly dim eat head u s u f e a n s r c an co re a unu ing en bad ld. and be n e m u r wo he ev wom ators arris the t fail aid in fro H s T st tha of o d e r a s icism jo b sh it m with againctam Ob nt cr ent. o f cru r s , uls se dire , p a , e s id c d n s lu lin aker the ing me d b -pre i o n s orst im prou o e k g sp ssin spea of w ex M i l l r w an our “ d, Ou pre mp, lions icans nstite. ashe 2 d u n r il o r e A e o c T o m Am g unle ne r, t age ly ng f colo crats t the es Y: P a you ers o Demo defe OR s HIST vot cies is to ump. chao the uen iden an Tr ant , t e if B ublic cons drift tim ry City Rep The us a iso “ s adv Clara that ve er p lea the g h ol in rou

r g in o dur Sch reen rns fo h a g Hig the  nce-le of ta art d dis n a s

s ans

st We

ribu

T r tral -yea ve ld d,  wou

Cen

e t / des has tha nts eny erv me t a p posal n inclu Ch ed pay Swif o Tom prov us pr w pla EC. m lth ap evio e ne e L fro H e a 0 k 0 e r th ty h e p T t of 0,0 n n is w of a ve. n s o a $10 s th ce abo eme lso ner in pla own e bas nd s a st th sh issio ds li ner mm g nee enter, ons in sio ear o is d C y n in ti f C d mm five- me d o ’s buil ment orrec om om C a oar e rec ing c isd nity ty B unty forc cts ild dmin aid oun e co En mmu oje e bu A s ift Cress th e Law W Co e h ty er w e t n t k S 6 u a d th it y Co y B mm sed The to ad ced for ee. else co pha g n epla ces K pla r g o in or ildin d the build g have ping lo bu nde the din B4 e eve e bon d r m f o f m o B6 eco oach lace p r app ds in 2 eA S g nee a D IFIE S: P S N S A S PLA CL e MIC A5 CO B1

com rib. wct

RUNNER UP - BEST SCHOOL

ACGC PUBLIC SCHOOLS 27250 MN-4 GROVE CITY, MN 56243 320-244-4730

ACGC Public School is comprised of the small rural communities of Atwater, Cosmos and Grove City. The four-day school week provides unique opportunities for students, staff, and families. ACGC prides itself on offering small class sizes, a safe, engaging, yet rigorous learning atmosphere. ACGC Elementary develops a well-rounded child by providing a social emotional learning in conjunction with our standards-based curriculum. Our hands-on approach to learning, creates an environment which spans from our school aged childcare to preschool and extends throughout our elementary. ACGC Jr/Sr High School offers diverse opportunities such as college level courses, Career and Technical Education opportunities, a yearly musical, robotics, Math League, student council and National Honor Society. We are proud of ACGC extracurricular activities, with state appearances in speech, dance, track, wrestling, football and basketball. The personalized approach to education, along with the safe learning environment for students allow ACGC students to thrive and succeed.

AT ACGC WE...

SPARK Imagination ENHANCE Knowledge CREATE Opportunities

“Where small class sizes allow our education staff to create special learning opportunities for your child.”

LET US HELP YOUR CHILD GROW AND SUCCEED Registration Hotlines:

Grades 5-12 320-244-4730 Grades k-4 320-244-4740 www.acgc.k12.mn.us

BEST ELECTRICIAN

RYAN BUER ELECTRIC 2286 COUNTY ROAD 4 NE ATWATER, MN (320) 894-0287

Ryan Buer Electric has been in business for over 10 years. I was born & raised in Atwater, MN, and still call it home so my community, and you, are very important to me. We are a team of 3 full time employees, providing residential, commercial and ag wiring. We take on small jobs, large jobs, service calls and anything in between! Every job is important to us, no matter what size. We pay attention to the smaller details and help coordinate with other trades, ensuring a better product & job for you. It is important to us that your experience is as stressfree as possible. We give you time to make the best decision for you and will see you through the completion of your job. My team and I are proud to serve you and look forward to your call!

Our team is proud to serve the electrical needs of our community!

320-894-0287

2286 County Road 4 NE • Atwater, MN rbuerelectric@hotmail.com 60 | 2020 Best of the Best

WINNER: Best Electrician

L to R: Riley, Ryan, Chris

RUNNER UP, BEST DIESEL TRUCK REPAIR

HENNES MACHINE 220 ATLANTIC AVE E ATWATER, MN 56209 320-974-8090 HENNESMACHINEANDREPAIR.COM/

Hennes Machine & Repair was started in 1997 in a small farm shop east of Willmar. As, Hennes Machine & Repair has grown over the years so has the need for space so we moved to Atwater Minnesota. We are a full service Semi Truck and Trailer Repair shop which includes a complete engine Machine Shop and a truck and trailer sales lot, We have partnered with several feed trailer manufacturer to service and carry parts on hand for our Feed Trailer customers becoming the largest parts on hand dealer in state.

Professional Engine Machining, Full Truck, Trailer and Equipment Repair, Hydraulic Hoses, Wet Kits and DOT Inspections.

Voted Runner up in Best Agriculture Repair and Best Diesel Truck Repair CONTACT US 320-974-8090

hennesmachineandrepair.com 220 Atlantic Avenue E. | P.O. Box 25 | Atwater, MN 56209

BEST VETERINARIAN OFFICE

SOUTH 71 VETERINARY CLINIC 4119 ABBOTT DR, WILLMAR, MN 56201 (320) 235-7396 • WWW.SOUTH71VET.COM/

South 71 Veterinary Clinic was established in 1984 to provide service to Willmar and the surrounding area. We also have two satellite facilities-one in Benson and one in Granite Falls. Our clinics are powered by an experienced and dedicated team of veterinarians & support staff. We strive to give you everything you need to keep your pet healthy & happy, all in one place! From boarding to medical exams, we are a modern veterinary clinic equipped with the latest tools and powered by an experienced team of veterinarians to give you cutting-edge, advanced treatment & care. A wide variety of products, vaccines and

Tails Are Wagging & Pets Are Bragging “South 71 Vet Clinic is MY Clinic!” Make your pet happy by making us your full-service veterinary clinic!

medications are available for purchase in the office and at the online store. It is our hope that we exceed your expectations as we care for your animals as if they are our own! Dr. Ryan Tollesfrud, DVM • Dr. Steve Rumsey, DVM Dr. Amy Schmidt, DVM • Dr. Deb Bauman, DVM Dr. Gregg Laurence, DVM • Dr. Rochelle Kallstrom, DVM Dr. Nicole Hjelle • Dr. Jason Anderson Willmar 320-235-7396 • Benson 320-842-7501 Granite Falls 320-564-1888

From boarding to medical exams, we are a modern veterinary clinic equipped with the latest tools and powered by an experienced team of veterinarians. WE PROVIDE:

Willmar 320-235-7396 Benson 320-842-7501 Granite Falls 320-564-1888

•

Routine care to keep your pet healthy: flea & tick meds, special diet foods, vaccinations, skin infection meds, oral care, microchipping

www.south71vet.com

•

Best Veterinarian Office Medical care to prolong their life: orthopedic surgery, X-rays & ultrasounds, in-house lab, cold laser therapy, chiropractic, specialty surgery, access to board-certified orthopedic surgeon

•

We also do exotic animal care, pet boarding, 24 hour emergency service

•

In store & online pharmacy and large animal supplies

Best of the Best 2020 | 61

WHITCOMB

FARM DRAINAGE

www.whitcombfarmdrainage.com “Family Owned, Farmer Approved” • Low Disturbance Pattern Tiling • Water Management • Ag Drainage

• • • •

Excavation Demolition Land Clearing Septic Systems

• Lot Preparation • Open Ditch Work • Underground Utilities

We appreciate all your support and votes!!

Kyle 320-905-0437 62 | 2020 Best of the Best

RUNNER UP BEST FARM DRAINAGE/TILING

WHITCOMB FARM DRAINAGE

WHITCOMB

FARM DRAINAGE

12199 165TH ST. SE, LAKE LILLIAN MN 320-905-0437 • WHITCOMBFD@GMAIL.COM/

Whitcomb Farm Drainage LLC has always operated under strong values aimed at exceeding client needs. We make every acre count. Our communication channels are always open—our relationship with our clients begins on the first day of contact, and only ends once they’re fully satisfied with our work. When you hire our services, you can count on us for the results you want and need. We provide Pattern tile systems, conventional and low disturbance, Water Management, Ag drainage and main line installation, Topographic mapping, excavation, demolition, septic systems, and lot preparation. Get in touch today, and discover the advantage of working with Whitcomb Farm Drainage LLC.

Best of the Best 2020 | 63

BEST INSURANCE AGENT

BEST TITLE COMPANY

701 1ST ST S WILLMAR, MN 56201 320-231-1134 STATEFARM.COM/

1600 US-12 WILLMAR, MN 56201 320-262-5200 QUALITYTITLEWILLMAR.COM/

MICK QUINN

The Mick Quinn State Farm Agency is a 2nd generation business that has been serving the Willmar area for over 30 years. We offer a broad spectrum of insurance products including auto, home, life and disability coverage. Through long term business relationships we strive to provide insurance protection tailored to each clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs, while maximizing all available discounts. Our staff is knowledgeable, friendly and enjoy working with each client on their individual needs. We welcome everyone to stop by our office today for a free custom insurance quote.

QUALITY TITLE

Quality Title of Willmar, Inc. was established in 2012 by Melissa Danielson with one simple premise: to provide professional real estate closing services with an attention to detail and personal touch that sets us apart from the competition. Melissa entered the title industry after a successful career in real estate sales, working with an area law firm for 10 years. Melissa hung her own shingle and quickly assembled a talented team, developing a reputation for top notch customer service. In reality, the title industry is a paper business â&#x20AC;&#x201C; research and recording. But, at Quality Title, we assure our customers that they are more than just a file. When we pick up a file or the phone, we know it is a buyer, seller, mom, dad, husband, wife, sister, brother; a PERSON whose transaction we are handling. Joined by Quality Abstract of Willmar, LLC, Quality Title is now poised to handle the transfer from start to finish. Of course, just as in any industry, there are moving parts and other professionals involved in the process. In Kandiyohi County, we are fortunate to have numerous options for real estate, lending and title professionals. A thank you goes out to those other professionals that our office works with every day. Thanks for being great partners, colleagues, competitors and for making us look good! And, thanks to the property owners, buyers and sellers who put their trust in us each and every day to handle their transactions. We appreciate the opportunity to work on your behalf.

Thank you for voting us Best Title Company!

F AFF O T S R OU ICATED NALS DED FESSIOthrough PRO uide you d assure will g rocess aning from the p ooth clos nd. a sm nning to e begi

1600 Hwy 12 East Willmar, MN 56201 (320)262-5200

closings@qtwillmar.com www.qualitytitlewillmar.com

64 | 2020 Best of the Best

BEST COLLEGE

Ranked #1 MN Community College

RIDGEWATER COLLEGE

niche.com

2101 15TH AVE NW, WILLMAR, MN 56201 320-222-5200

A Minnesota community and technical college, Ridgewater offers more than 100 educational programs in transfer education, transfer options, and technical education. In fact, some of our programs are unique in not only Minnesota but also the nation. With campuses in Willmar and Hutchinson, Ridgewater serves more than 5,500 students. In fall 2019, Ridgewater was ranked as Minnesota’s #1 Community College based on value, strong academics, student life, facilities, diversity, student experiences, location, and safety! (Source: www.niche.com/)

BEST LAWN CARE

TREE N TURF

And now voted #1 by you. Thank you! ridgewater.edu | 800-722-1151 | Willmar & Hutchinson A member of Minnesota State and an equal opportunity employer/educator

Serving Willmar & surrounding areas 8/13/2020 4:37:27 PM for over 35 years!

RCBest of BestWCTrib final.indd 1

6561 113TH AVE NE SPICER, MN 56288

Tree-n-Turf is a locally owned and operated company setting the standard for lawn care, since 1975 throughout Central Minnesota. We take pride in providing you with all of your lawn care needs. Our technicians are trained and licensed to provide you with professional and knowledgeable service.

Thanks for voting us #1 in Lawn Care since 2012

320-796-0507

PM The QS Best of Best Ad.qxp_Layout 1 7/8/19 11:58 AMofPage 1 grass is always greener on OUR side the fence!

BEST CUSTOM PRINTING BUSINESS

PRINT MASTERS 919 1ST ST S, WILLMAR, MN (320) 2358055 WWW.PRINTMASTERSOFWILLMAR.COM/

Print Masters and Quick Signs are locally owned businesses serving Willmar and the surrounding area for almost 50 years. Gary Laughlin is the owner and employs nine people who average almost ten years of employment each. We are located at 919 First Street South in Willmar. At Print Masters we offer design and paper printing services for both businesses and individuals. We use the latest in digital printing technology and software to provide our customers with the best product available. Some of the items we produce includes business cards, letterhead, envelopes, brochures, forms and wedding announcements. Quick Signs also provides a wide variety of products including digital signs, indoor/outdoor signs, vehicle graphics, apparel and promotional items. We offer a wide range of sign solutions all the way from design to installation. Our goal is to provide our customers with great service, quality work and fast turnaround times at competitive prices.

919 First Street S • Willmar, MN 56201

320-235-8055 • 320-235-7411 www.PrintMastersofWillmar.com

Voted 2020 Best of the Best Custom Printing Business! Best of the Best 2020 | 65

Get Involved in our Fall Magazine Publishing Saturday November 7th, 2020

Deadline for Space Reservation Tuesday, October 6th

Presented by the

To advertise in our spring edition contact Christie Steffel at csteffel@wctrib.com or 320-214-4317 66 | 2020 Best of the Best

BEST EYE CLINIC

FISCHER LASER EYE CENTER 1801 19TH AVE. SW WILLMAR, MN 56201 (320) 235-2020 WWW.FISCHERLASER.COM

This practice has been caring for patients for more than 60 years. Founded in 1956, the practice was originally called Family Eye Center. In 2002, the name changed to Fischer Laser Eye Center as the team gained eye surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Fischer. In 2005, the practice grew yet again, opening their own ambulatory surgery center. Our team diagnoses and treats a comprehensive list of conditions. Our specialties include: • Cataracts • LASEK • Glaucoma • Cornea • Refractive Procedures • Optical • Macular Degeneration • Diabetic Retinopathy • Dry Eye • Low Vision • Pediatric

Our patients are more than names in an appointment book, and the quality of care they receive will always reflect that. The technology many assume is only available in large cities is available much closer to home, at Fischer Laser Eye Center. We are constantly tracking and implementing the latest, most effective advancements to bring our patients the most sophisticated treatments right here in central Minnesota. No matter which of our multiple offices the patients visit or which of our doctors they see, patients receive the kind of eye care our doctors would want their own families to receive.

Best of the Best 2020 | 67

Best

Best Place for Winter Family Fun YMCA

1000 Lakeland Dr SE, Willmar, MN 56201 320-222-9622 www.kandiymca.org/ Runner Up Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center Runner Up Powder Ridge Kimball

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Best Place to Watch the Big Game Ruffs Wings

2100 US-12, Willmar, MN 56201 320-214-7833 www.ruffswings.com Runner Up Alley on Ash

Best Casino

Prairies Edge Casino

5616 Prairies Edge Ln, Granite Falls, MN 56241 320-564-2121 www.prairiesedgecasino.com Runner Up Runner Up

Danny Burns Runner Up JMark Entertainment Runner Up Chuck Blum

Best Escape Room Cokato Escape

175 4th St SW, Cokato, MN 55321 320-286-2427 www.cokatomuseum.org/

Best Live Entertainment Spot The Barn Theater

321 4th St SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-9500 www.thebarntheatre.com

O’Neil’s Goat Ridge Brewery, New London

Best Local Band

Fabulous Armadillos Runner Up Custom Made Runner Up Dam Jammers

Best Local Celebrity Brandon Zylstra Runner Up Dave Baker Runner Up Ava Hanson

Best Local Date Spot O’Neil’s

152 Lake Ave N, Spicer, MN 56288 320-796-6524 www.oneilsbar.com Runner Up Runner Up

Alley on Ash Hinterland Vineyard

Best Local Entertainer Little Crow Water Ski Team

311 2nd Ave SE, New London, MN 56273 www.littlecrow.com Runner Up Runner Up

Dam Jammers Custom Made

68 | 2020 Best of the Best

O’Neil’s

Best Theater

Jackpot Junction Treasure Island

Best DJ

Runner Up Runner Up

Runner Up

The Barn Theatre, Willmar, MN

Best Movie Theater Spicer Cinema 4

151 Progress Cir, Spicer, MN 56288 320-796-5500 • spicercinema.com Runner Up Runner Up

Reel Lux Cinema Marcus Parkwood - Waite Park

Best Museum

Fagen Fighters WWII Museum

2450 540th St, Granite Falls, MN 56241 320-564-6644 www.fagenfighterswwiimuseum.org/ Runner Up Runner Up

Kandiyohi County Historical Society The Village Children’s Museum

Best Performing Arts

The Barn Theatre, Willmar, MN 321 4th St SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-9500 www.thebarntheatre.com

Runner Up New London Spicer High School Performing Arts Runner Up New London Little Theatre

Best Place for Kids to Play

Destination Playground Robbin’s Island Willmar Highway 71 N, Willmar, MN 56201 www.willmarmn.gov/parks_and_trails/robbins_ island.php Runner Up Runner Up

Wildcat Cove Playground, Spicer Alley on Ash

Best Place for Summer Family Fun Big Kahuna

190 Progress Way, Spicer, MN 56288 320-796-2445 www.spicerfunpark.com Runner Up Runner Up

Sibley State Park Robbins Island

321 4th St SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-9500 www.thebarntheatre.com Runner Up

Center Runner Up

New London- Spicer Performing Arts New London - Spicer High School

Best Weddings/Party Venue Stonewall Farms

3609 67th Ave NW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-250-4151 www.facebook.com/mnstonewallfarms Runner Up Runner Up

Willmar Conference Center Glacial Ridge Winery

Best Radio Station Q102

1340 7th St NW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-1340 www.willmarradio.com Runner Up Runner Up

Big Country K95.3

Best

SPORTS & RECREATIONAL

Best Game Farm

Best Resort

Best Bait Shop

13015 MN-23, Granite Falls, MN 56241 320-564-2022 minnesotaheartlandpreservemn.com

13194 2nd St NE, Spicer, MN 56288 320-354-4272 www.dickersonsresort.com

102 MN-23, Spicer, MN 56288 320-796-2000 www.facebook.com/melssportshop/

Best Golf Course

Minnesota Heartland Preserve

Mel’s Sport Shop

Runner Up Runner Up

Skindelein’s Bait & Tackle J & J Bait & Tackle

Best Bicycle Shop Rick’s Sport & Cycle

320 SW 3rd St SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-0202 rickscycling.com Runner Up

Scheels

Best Boat Dealer Tensen Marine

205 Babcock Ave, Raymond, MN 56282 320-967-4291 www.tensenmarine.com/main/ Runner Up Runner Up

Little Crow Sports Center Spicer marine

Best Bowling Alley Alley On Ash

19 Ash St SE, New London, MN 56273 320-354-2112 www.facebook.com/Alleyonash/ Runner Up Runner Up

Koronis Lanes Paynesville Litchfield Bowling Center

Best Camper/RV Dealer Ted’s RV in Paynesville

28501 Hwy 55, Paynesville, MN 56362 320-243-3288 Runner Up Runner Up

Pleasure Land Rv Center Rebel Camper

Best Fish House Dealer

Koronis Motors- Paynesville Chevrolet

28601 Hwy 55, Paynesville, MN 56362 877-241-9634 www.paynesvillechevrolet.com//?cs:pro=yext Runner Up Runner Up

American Surplus- Ice Castle Rebel Campers

Runner Up Runner Up

J&J Bison Ranch Crow River Whitetails

Little Crow Golf Resort

15980 MN-23, Spicer, MN 56288 320-347-1500 www.littlecrowresort.com Runner Up Island Pine Runner Up

Eagle Creek

Best Gun Store Mel’s Sport Shop

102 MN-23, Spicer, MN 56288 320-796-2000 www.facebook.com/melssportshop/ Runner Up Runner Up

Runnings Laib’s Gunsmithing

Best Local Sports Team Willmar Stingers

1401 22nd St SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-222-2010 www.willmarstingers.com/season.php Runner Up Runner Up

Willmar Cardinals BOLD

Best Motorsports Dealer Apol’s HD in Raymond

202 Cofield St, Raymond, MN 56282 320-967-4511 www.apols.com Runner Up Runner Up

Motor Sports of Willmar Larry’s Power Equipment and Rentals

Best Park

Best Sporting Goods/ Outdoors Store Runnings

3031 1st St S, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-1325 www.runnings.com/storelocator/storedetails?id=4 Runner Up Runner Up

Mel’s Sport Shop Dunham’s

Best Sports Venue

Bill Tautam Stadium- Stingers Stadium 1401 22nd St SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-222-2010 www.willmarstingers.com/season.php Runner Up Runner Up

NL-S High School Willmar Civic Center

Best Swimming Pool

Dorothy Olson Aquatic Center

1601 22nd St SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-441-2018 www.willmar.k12.mn.us/doac Runner Up Runner Up

Club Bethesda Hutch pool

Best Waterpark

Dorothy Olson Aquatic Center

1601 22nd St SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-441-2018 www.willmar.k12.mn.us/doac Runner Up Runner Up

Benson Swimming Pool Rice Park

Runner Up Destination Playground Robbins Island Runner Up Rice Park

1000 Lakeland Dr SE, Willmar, MN 56201 320-222-9622 www.kandiymca.org/

12718 10th St NE, Spicer, MN 56288 320-354-5894 www.prairiewoodselc.org/

Club Bethesda BarPath Crossfit

Bug Beehive Resort Diamond Lake Resort

800 Sibley Park Rd NE, New London, MN 56273 320-354-2055 www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/sibley/

Best Recreation Rental

Runner Up Runner Up

Sibley State Park

Best Fitness Center YMCA

Dickerson’s Lake Florida Resort

Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center

Runner Up Runner Up

Pleasure Land RV Center Grand True Value Rental Best of the Best 2020 | 69

Best DINING & DRINK

Best Bloody Mary

Best Dessert

152 Lake Ave N, Spicer, MN 56288 320-796-6524 www.oneilsbar.com

309 Lakeland ave, Willmar, MN 56201 320-262-5171 www.middleforkcafe.com

O'Neil's

Runner Up Runner Up

Golden Palace Restaurant

1605 1st St S, Willmar, MN 56201 320-222-8888 goldenpalacewillmar.com Runner Up Runner Up

511 Benson Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-2865 friedascafe.com

202 19th Ave SE, Willmar, MN 56201 320-441-2051 www.culvers.com/restaurants/willmar

Westwood Cafe McMillan's Family Restaurant

1000 26th Ave NE, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-4448 www.oaksateaglecreek.com

Runner Up Runner Up

Goat Ridge Brewing Company Talking Waters Brewery Company

Runner Up Runner Up

McDonald's Culver's

Best Happy Hour

The Oaks At Eagle Creek

Best Buffet Pizza Ranch

Best Beer Selection

1612 Lakeland Dr SE, Willmar, MN 56201 320-222-3663 pizzaranch.com/locations/mn/willmar/1612lakeland-drive-se

1600 US-12, Willmar, MN 56201 320-222-2337 www.s-dliquor.com

Best Burger

Runner Up Runner Up

Panda Garden Buffet The Oaks At Eagle Creek

Alley on Ash

19 Ash St SE, New London, MN 56273 320-354-2112 Runner Up Runner Up

O'Neil's Ruff's Wings & Sports Bar

Best Candy Shop Mr B's Chocolates

1707 Technology Dr NE #101, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-1313 mrbchocolates.com Runner Up Runner Up

Country Stop - New London How Sweet it is - New London

Best Coffee Shop Lake Affect Coffee

32 Main St N, New London, MN 56273 320-354-7017 lakeaffectcoffee.net/ Runner Up Runner Up

70 | 2020 Best of the Best

Hog-n-The Road Green Mill Restaurant & Bar

152 Lake Ave N, Spicer, MN 56288 320-796-6524 www.oneilsbar.com

O'Neil's

Foxhole Brewhouse Alley On Ash

Runner Up Runner Up

O'Neil's

Best Bar

Runner Up Runner Up

The Oaks At Eagle Creek

Best Fries

Cold Spring Bakery Cakes N Sweets By Sarah

Westside Liquor Store

Taco John's McDonald's

313 4th St SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-441-2071 www.foxholebrewhouse.com

21 Main St N, New London, MN 56273 320-354-2243 m.facebook.com/newlondonbakery/

Alley on Ash Foxhole Brewhouse

Runner Up Runner Up

Best Fine Dining

Foxhole Brewhouse

New London Bakery

Runner Up Runner Up

Culver's

Best Brewery

Panda Garden Buffet Mongo's Grill

152 Lake Ave N, Spicer, MN 56288 320-796-6524 www.oneilsbar.com

Deep Freeze Hog-n-The Road

Best Fast Food

Frieda's Cafe

Best Bakery

Runner Up Runner Up

Best Breakfast Place

Runner Up Runner Up

Best Asian Restaurant

Alley On Ash Ruff's Wings & Sports Bar

Middle Fork Cafe

Dunn Brothers Coffee! Lu Lu Beans

1000 26th Ave NE, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-4448 www.oaksateaglecreek.com Runner Up Runner Up

Green Mill Restaurant & Bar Foxhole Brewhouse

Best Ice Cream Deep Freeze

10 4th Ave SE, New London, MN 56273 320-354-0093 www.facebook.com/DeepFreezeMN Runner Up Runner Up

Red Onion Drive In Culver's

Best Italian Food

The Oaks At Eagle Creek

1000 26th Ave NE, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-4448 www.oaksateaglecreek.com Runner Up Runner Up

Green Mill Restaurant & Bar Giovanni's Pizza

Best Late-Night Food Place Alley On Ash

19 Ash St SE, New London, MN 56273 320-354-2112 Runner Up Runner Up

Zorbaz Perkins

Best Ribs

Best Wine Selection

American Legion Willmar

Westside Liquor Store

220 19th Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-8136 www.legion.org/ Runner Up Runner Up

Grizzly's Grill N' Saloon Peter's On Lake Ripley

Best Sandwich Shop Middle Fork Cafe 309 Lakeland ave, Willmar, MN 56201 320-262-5171 www.middleforkcafe.com Runner Up

Best Liquor Store Westside Liquor Store

1600 US-12, Willmar, MN 56201 320-222-2337 www.s-dliquor.com Runner Up Runner Up

Cash Wise Liquor Green Lake Liquors

Best Mexican Restaurant El Tapatio

Runner Up

Azteca Rosita's Grill

Best Nachos Zorbaz

159 Lake Ave S, Spicer, MN 56288 320-796-2195 zorbaz.com Runner Up Runner Up

Grizzly's Grill N' Saloon Azteca

Best Outdoor Dining

Goat Ridge Brewing Company

17 Central Ave W, New London, MN 56273 320-354-2383 www.goatridgebrewing.com Runner Up Runner Up

Best Soup Middle Fork Cafe 309 Lakeland ave, Willmar, MN 56201 320-262-5171 www.middleforkcafe.com Runner Up Runner Up

1111 1st St S, Willmar, MN 56201 (320) 214-0444 Runner Up

Runner Up

Max's on the Green O'Neil's

Erbert and Gerberts Jimmy John's

Westwood Cafe McMillan's Family Restaurant

1600 US-12, Willmar, MN 56201 320-222-2337 www.s-dliquor.com Runner Up Runner Up

Hinterland Vineyards Glacial Ridge Winery

Best Wineries Glacial Ridge Winery 15455 Old Mill Rd, Spicer, MN 56288 320-796-9463 glacialridgewinery.com Runner Up Runner Up

Grandview Valley Winery Hinterland Vineyards

Best Wings Ruff's Wings & Sports Bar 2100 US-12, Willmar, MN 56201 320-214-7833 www.ruffswings.com Runner Up Runner Up

Green Mill Restaurant & Bar Alley on Ash

Best Steakhouse Budger's Dinner House 331 Cynthia St, Maynard, MN 56260 320-367-2110 www.facebook.com/BudgersDinnerHouse Runner Up Runner Up

The Oaks At Eagle Creek Grizzly's Grill N' Saloon

Best Sunday Brunch The Oaks At Eagle Creek 1000 26th Ave NE, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-4448 www.oaksateaglecreek.com Runner Up Runner Up

McMillan's Family Restaurant Green Mill Restaurant & Bar

Best Pizza Jake's Pizza

316 Litchfield Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-1714 jakespizzaofwillmar.com Runner Up Papa Murphy's Take 'N' Bake Pizza

Best of the Best 2020 | 71

Best PRODUCT & SERVICES

Best Accounting Firms Anfinson & Thompson

1604 1st St S, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-7491 anfinsonthompson.com Runner Up Runner Up

CDS- Conway, Deuth & Schmiesing Westberg Eischens

Best Agriculture Repair Haug Implement

3593 E, US-12, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-8115 www.haugimp.com Runner Up Runner Up

Hennes Machine Barker Tractor

Best Appliance Repair Appliance & Home Center

1700 1st St S, Willmar, MN 56201 320-214-9784 www.applianceandhomecenter.com Runner Up Runner Up

Halvorsons Karl's TV & Appliance

Best Appliance Store Appliance & Home Center

1700 1st St S, Willmar, MN 56201 320-214-9784 www.applianceandhomecenter.com Runner Up Runner Up

Halvorsons, Spicer Home Depot

Best Area Magazine Live it!

2208 Trott Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-1150 www.wctrib.com Runner Up Runner Up

Willmar Lakes Area Visitor Guide Central Minnesota Brides

Best Area Newspaper West Central Tribune

2208 Trott Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-1150 â&#x20AC;˘ www.wctrib.com Runner Up Runner Up

Lakes Area Review Swift County Monitor

Best Area Shopper Sunday Reminder

2208 Trott Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-1150 www.wctrib.com 72 | 2020 Best of the Best

Best Auctioneer

Best Car Dealership

412 19th Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-0742 fladeboeproperties.com/Home/Contact

1005 N Sibley Ave, Litchfield, MN 55355 877-693-3224 www.davismotorsgm.com

Fladeboe

Runner Up Runner Up

Ziemer Henslin Auctions

Davis Motors, Litchfield, Mn

Runner Up Runner Up

Paynesville Chevrolet Olivia Chrysler

Best Auto Care

Best Car Wash

1200 1st St S, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-5740 walts.business.site/

Walt's

Runner Up Runner Up

Tires Plus Willmar Hanson Tire-New London

Walt's

Runner Up Runner Up

Kwik Trip Country Stop, New London

Best Auto Collision

Best Carpet Cleaner

79446 485th St, Hector, MN 55342 320-848-2020 carlsonscollision.com

320-235-6642 kandi-carpet-care-inc.business.site/

Carlson's Collision & Glass

Runner Up Runner Up

Midwest Autobody & Sales Jeff's Auto/Quisberg Auto

Best Auto Decal Baker Graphic

1778 41st Ave NE, Willmar, MN 56201 320-214-8252 www.bakergraphicsonline.com Runner Up Runner Up

Quick Signs/Printmasters Atwater Ford

Best Auto Supply Accessories 4 Trucks

1813 1st St S, Willmar, MN 56201 320-231-9715 www.facebook.com/Accessories-4Trucks-149089308460865/ Runner Up Runner Up

Napa- Willmar Auto Value Willmar

Best Bank/Credit Union Co-Op Credit Union

501 19th Ave SE, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-1573 co-opcreditunion.com Runner Up Runner Up

Heritage Bank Home State Bank

Best Boutique Mill Pond

24 Main St N, New London, MN 56273 320-354-5557 www.millpondmercantile.com Runner Up Runner Up

Urban Escape The Happy Sol

Best Cabinets

Cronen Cabinet and Flooring

316 Atlantic Ave, Kandiyohi, MN 56251 320-382-6336 cronencabinetandflooring.com Runner Up Runner Up

Floor To Ceiling Kitchen Fair

Kandi Carpet Care Runner Up Runner Up

Floor To Ceiling Stanley Steemer

Best Child Care Facility YMCA

Runner Up Runner Up

Loving Arms childcare Nancy Nelson Child Care

Best Chiropractic Office Hinderks chiropractic

2630 1st St S Suite 103, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-7347 www.facebook.com/hinderkschirowillmar Runner Up

Boline Fenstra Chiropractic

Best Cleaning Service Miss Kays Cleaning 320-212-6126 mskays.com Runner Up Runner Up

Team Crystal Clean Spotless Clean LLC, New London, MN

Best College

Ridgewater College

2101 15th Ave NW Willmar, MN 56201 320-222-5200 www.ridgewater.edu/ Runner Up Runner Up

St. Cloud State University Gustavus Adolphus College

Best Concrete Contractor Matt Haats

10833 210th Ave NW, Pennock, MN 56279 320-366-3636 Runner Up Runner Up

Duininck Concrete Sjoberg Masonry & Concrete, Spicer,

Best Contractor Layman Construction 320-235-2633 Runner Up Runner Up

Charles Construction carlson construction inc.

Best Cosmetic Clinic Rejuvenate Salon & Spa

61 Main St S #1, New London, MN 56273 320-347-1091 www.rejuvenatespaday.com Runner Up

Beauty Box

Best Crematory Service Harvey Anderson & Johnson

1000 19th Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-0545 www.hafh.org/ Runner Up

Peterson's Brothers Funeral Home Wing-Bain Funeral Home, Montevideo and Granite Falls Runner Up

Best Custom Printing Business Print Masters

919 1st St S, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-8055 www.printmastersofwillmar.com Runner Up Runner Up

Baker Printing, Spicer Baker Graphics

Best Dance School Main Pointe

245 2nd St, Kandiyohi, MN 56251 320-894-4796 www.mpdancer.com Runner Up Runner Up

Just for Kix, NLS Colleen's School of Dance

Best Dental Office Kandi Dental

400 24th Ave SE, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-9363 kandidental.com Runner Up Runner Up

Dr. Ross Olness Dr. Michael Gardner

Best Diesel Truck Repair Barker Tractor and Truck Repair

55920 340th St, Grove City, MN 56243 320-857-2230 ihdisgusted.net/ Runner Up Runner Up

Hennes Machine Dan's Diesel

Best Dry Cleaning Schwegmans

108 Minnesota Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-2545 Runner Up

Cash Wise

Best Ear Nose and Throat Doctor Dr. Marty Janning- Janning ENT

1801 19th Ave SW Willmar, MN 56201 320-231-3277 www.janningentcenter.com Runner Up Runner Up

Dr. Jonathan Mellama-ACMC Dr Jennifer Pesola- ACMC

Best Elder Care Services Bethesda 901 Willmar Ave SE, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-9532 bethesdawillmar.com Runner Up Runner Up

Compassionate Care Copperleaf

Best Electrician Ryan Buer Electric Runner Up Kim's Electric Runner Up Gatewood Electric

Best Electronics Appliance & Home Center 1700 1st St S, Willmar, MN 56201 320-214-9784 www.applianceandhomecenter.com/ Runner Up Runner Up

West Central Technolgy Gadget Guys

Best Employment Agency Employment Plus 920 Litchfield Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-1707 www.employment-plus.com Runner Up

G&S Staffing

Best Eye Clinic Fischer Laser Eye Center 1801 19th Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-2020 www.fischerlaser.com/ Runner Up Runner Up

ACMC/ CARRIS Eyes and Optical Midwest Vision

Best Family Healthcare Provider Dr. Amber Vick 600 Peterson Parkway New London, MN 56273 320-354-2222 www.carrishealth.com/locations/carris-health-newlondon-clinic/ Runner Up Runner Up

Dr. Wehesler Renville County Clinic - Dr. Kemp

Best Farm Drainage/Tiling Litzau Farm Drainage 13201 195th St SE, Lake Lillian, MN 56253 320-794-8115 Runner Up Runner Up

Whitcomb Farm Drainage Prinsco Best of the Best 2020 | 73

Best Fertilizer Dealer Haug Implement

3593 E, US-12, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-8115 www.haugimp.com Runner Up Runner Up

CHS Inc. Hancock Co-op

Best Financial Advisors JD Kreps Financial Group

309 Lakeland Dr SE # 2, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-8065 www.jdkreps.com Runner Up Runner Up

CDS Financial Services, LLC Anfinson & Thomas

Best Fire Place Showroom Fireside Hearth and Home

1001 US-12, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-7415 www.firesidehp.com Runner Up Runner Up

Lake Country Fireplace Fireplaces by R & M

Best Flooring/Carpet Store Floor to Ceiling

106 19th St NW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-2721 ftcwillmar.com Runner Up Runner Up

Jerry's Flooring Cronen Cabinet and Flooring

Best Funeral Home

Best Hair Salon

700 Becker Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-1651 www.petersonbrothers.com

1004 1st St S, Willmar, MN 56201 320-403-5009 bombshellsandbrows.com

Peterson's Brothers Funeral Home

Runner Up Runner Up

Harvey Anderson & Johnson Wing-Bain Funeral Home, Montevideo and Granite Falls

Best Furniture Store Slumberland

2614 1st St S, Willmar, MN 56201 320-231-0450 www.slumberland.com/stores/-j5-willmar-mn?utm_ source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_ campaign=google-my-business&utm_content=J5 Runner Up Runner Up

Furniture Plus A&W Furniture

Best Garage Doors American Door Works

1301 US-12, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-7688 www.americandoorworks.com Runner Up Runner Up

Excel Overhead Door Pro New London

Best Gas Station/Convenience Store Kwik Trip

2550 US-12 E, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-2132 www.kwiktrip.com/locator/store?id=937 Runner Up Runner Up

Walt's Country Stop, New London, MN

Best Grain Elevator Allied Grain

18750 US-71, Blomkest, MN 56216 320-995-6119 www.alliedgrain.com Runner Up Runner Up

Best Florist Late Bloomers

1303 1st St S #8, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-4940 www.latebloomersfloralandgift.com Runner Up Runner Up

Stacy's Nursery Rustic Designs Flower Farm

Best Foundation Contractors Safe Basements

60335 US-12, Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-8729 www.safebasements.com Runner Up Runner Up

Nelson Family Construction Matt Haats

74 | 2020 Best of the Best

Belgrade Grain Inc. Elrosa Elevator

Best Greenhouse/Nursery I & M landscaping

2801 30th St SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-4320 iandmlandscaping.com Runner Up Runner Up

Stacy's Nursery Green Lake Nursery

Best Grocery Store Cash Wise

1300 5th St SE, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-2485 www.cashwise.com/CWstore3004 Runner Up Runner Up

Cub Foods Aldi

Bombshells & Brows

Runner Up Runner Up

Salon Nouveau Hair & More

Best Hardware Store Bonnema Hardware

110 Manitoba St, Spicer, MN 56288 320-796-5531 Runner Up

Lameckers Hardware StoreKerkhoven Runner Up Sweep Hardware Hank- Clara City

Best Hearing Aid Center Miracle Ear

2211 S 1st St Suite #140, Willmar, MN 56201 320-407-1264 www.miracle-ear.com/stores-near-me/hearingaids-willmar-mn/miracle-ear-hearing-aid-center-1ststreet-s11759 Runner Up Runner Up

America's Best Hearing AccuQuest Hearing Centers

Best Heating and Air Conditioning Company Chappell Central

1950 Trott Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-2151 www.chappellcentral.com Runner Up

London Runner Up

Kelly's Heating & Cooling - New Sam's Heating and Cooling

Best Home Exterior Contractor streling construction llc

6400 97th Ave NE, Spicer, MN 56288 320-894-6869 www.facebook.com/pg/Streling-ConstructionLLC-316497769113600 Runner Up Runner Up

Layman Construction mike cronen construction

Best Home Furnishing Store

Best Insurance Agent

2614 1st St S, Willmar, MN 56201 320-231-0450 www.slumberland.com/stores/-j5-willmar-mn?utm_ source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_ campaign=google-my-business&utm_content=J5

701 1st St S, Willmar, MN 56201 320-231-1134 www.mickquinn.net/?cmpid=rnog_blm_0001

Slumberland

Runner Up Runner Up

Luminaries Three Sisters

Best Home Improvement Perkins Lumber

100 10th St NW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-3242 www.perkinslumber.net/ Runner Up Runner Up

Floor to Ceiling Mike Cronen Construction

Best Home-Builder streling construction llc

6400 97th Ave NE, Spicer, MN 56288 320-894-6869 www.facebook.com/pg/Streling-ConstructionLLC-316497769113600 Runner Up Runner Up

Mike Cronen Construction Layman Construction

Best Hotel/Motel Country inn & Suites

201 28th Ave SE, Willmar, MN 56201 320-214-0300 www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/country-innwillmar-mn?cid=a:se+b:gmb+c:amer+i:local+e:cis+d: us+h:MNWILLMA Runner Up Runner Up

Little Crow Resort Grandstay Hampton Inn

Best Implement Dealer Haug Implement

3593 E, US-12, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-8115 www.haugimp.com Runner Up Runner Up

Arnolds Midwest Machinery

Mick Quinn State Farm Agency

Runner Up Runner Up

Teresa Holwerda- State Farm Agency Melissa Radel, State Farm

Best Internet Provider

Charter/ Spectrum Runner Up MVTV Wireless Runner Up TDS Telephone, New London

Best Jeweler Elmquist

101 28th Ave SE, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-5267 www.elmquistjewelers.com Runner Up Runner Up

Paffrath Green Lake Goldsmithing

Best Landscaping

I & M Landscaping Nursery Inc, Willmar 2801 30th St SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-4320 iandmlandscaping.com Runner Up Runner Up

Stacys Nursery Altendorf Lanscaping

Best Law Firm

Johnson, Moody Schmidt & Kleinhuizen 320 1st St S #3304, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-2000 www.jmsklaw.com

Runner Up Anderson Larson Saunders Klaasen & Dahlager Runner Up Ryan Walsh Law Firm

Runner Up Runner Up

Furniture Plus Hennens

Best Meat Market/Butcher Shop Wick's

209 4th St, Kandiyohi, MN 56251 320-382-6195 Runner Up Runner Up

Belgrade Meat center Prairie Meats Danube

Best Medical Clinic Carris Health / ACMC

6561 113th Ave NE, Spicer, MN 56288 320-796-0507 treenturfwillmar.com

Best Medical Facility

Tree n Turf

Runner Up Runner Up

Yard Smart Eagle Lawn & Labor

19768 County Rd 9 NE, New London, MN 56273 320-905-7773 www.thermosealinsulationmn.com

3593 E, US-12, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-8115 www.haugimp.com

ABC Seamless Superior Spray Foam Insulation

2614 1st St S, Willmar, MN 56201 320-231-0450 www.slumberland.com/stores/-j5-willmar-mn?utm_ source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_ campaign=google-my-business&utm_content=J5

301 Becker Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-4543

Best Lawn Equipment

Runner Up Runner Up

Slumberland

Best Lawn Care

Best Insulation Contractors/ Companies ThermoSeal Insulation- New London

Best Mattress Store

Haug Implement

Runner Up Runner Up

Mike's Small Engine Larry's Power Equipment

Best Manufacturing Company West Central Steel

110 19th St NW, Willmar, MN 56201 800-992-8853 www.wcsteel.com Runner Up Runner Up

Nova-Tech Engineering Perkin's Lumber Co.

Runner Up Runner Up

CCM Health Olivia Hospital & Clinic

Carris Health / ACMC

301 Becker Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-4543 Runner Up Runner Up

CCM Health Olivia Hospital & Clinic

Best Nail Salon Elite Nails

2319 1st St S, Willmar, MN 56201 320-222-5757 Runner Up Runner Up

JK Nails Rejuvanate Salon and Spa

Best Natural Food Store Potpourri Health Foods

310 Litchfield Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-5487 Runner Up

Cashwise

Best Massage/Spa

Best Nonprofit Organization

1210 Lakeland Dr SE, Willmar, MN 56201 320-231-9878

1950 19th Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-0475

Hands on Therapy Runner Up Runner Up

Rejuvanate Salon & Spa Jiva Massage

Safe Avenues Runner Up Runner Up

The Link Woodland Centers Best of the Best 2020 | 75

Best Place to Work

Kandiyohi County Sheriff's Office

2201 23rd St NE, Willmar, MN 56201 320-214-6700 www.co.kandiyohi.mn.us/departments/sheriff/ index.php Runner Up Runner Up

CDS City Line Towing

Best Plumber A&B Plumbing

320-894-6605 willmarplumbing.com Runner Up BK Plumbing Runner Up Ideal Plumbing & Heating New London MN

Best Oil Change

Best Pool & Spa Dealer

1200 1st St S, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-5740 walts.business.site/

1605 1st St S A01 - A02, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-5118 www.paradisewillmar.com

Walt's

Runner Up Runner Up

Hanson Tire Fatty Daddy Auto

Best Painter

Lake Region Painting Runner Up Guptill Painting, Willmar, MN Runner Up Andy Brown painting

Paradise Pool

Runner Up

Performance Pool & Spa- St. Cloud

Best Public Transportation Central Community Transit

1320 22nd St SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-214-7433 www.cctbus.org/

Runner Up Runner Up

North Country Kennels Canine Training Institute, New London, MN

Runner Up Runner Up

54232 343rd St, Grove City, MN 56243 800-898-4936 affordablepumpingservice.com

14 1st Ave SE, New London, MN 56273 320-905-5436 www.groomzonellc.com

Runner Up

Country Canines grooming Four Paws

Laura Jill Photography Runner Up C&C Photography Runner Up HMD Photography

Best Place of Worship Willmar Assembly of God

3821 Abbott Dr, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-2529 www.willmarag.org/ Runner Up St Mary's Catholic Church- Willmar Runner Up The Open Door Christian Church

76 | 2020 Best of the Best

Efficient Septic

Best Shoe Store Peterson Shoes

Best Pharmacy

Best Photographer

BECKS- MTR Seed Services Hamm Seed Grove City

Affordable Pumping

Groom Zone

Walgreens Thrifty White

Willmar Schools ACGC

Best Septic/Pumping

Best Pet Grooming

Runner Up Runner Up

3031 1st St S, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-1325 www.runnings.com

5300 8th Ave NE, Willmar, MN 56201 320-382-6270

1300 5th St SE, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-2506 www.cashwisepharmacy.com

101 4th Ave SW, New London, MN 56273 320-354-2252 www.nls.k12.mn.us/

Runnings

Fancy Coats

Cashwise Pharmacy

New London - Spicer

Best Seed Dealer

Best Pet Boarding Facility

Runner Up Runner Up

Best School

Best Real Estate Agent

Amber Barber- Lakes Area Realty 42 Main St S, New London, MN 56273 320-212-8646 Runner Up Runner Up

Jane Viske- Jane Viske Real Estate Ann Anderson- Edina Realty

Best Real Estate Company Jane Vikse Real Estate

145 Lake Ave N, Spicer, MN 56288 320-796-3003 Runner Up Runner Up

Edina Realty Lakes Area Realty

Best Roofing Company Layman Construction 320-235-2633 Runner Up Runner Up

West Central Roofing Carlson Construction Inc

208 5th St SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-4232 www.petersonsshoeswillmar.com Runner Up Runner Up

Happy Sol Tradehome

Best Small Business Technologies Bennett Office Technologies

312 24th Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-6425 www.bennettoffice.com Runner Up Runner Up

Aasen Tech West Central Technology

Best Small Engine Repair Mikes Small Engine

1101 US-12, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-0400 www.mikessmallenginemn.com Runner Up Runner Up

Larry's Power Equipment Ed's Small Engine

Best Snow Removal

Best Thrift Store

Best Tree Company

2801 30th St SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-4320 iandmlandscaping.com

601 Industrial Dr SW, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-1213

320-212-3292 crowsnesttree.com

I & M Landscaping

Runner Up Runner Up

Tree N Turf Eagle Lawn & Labor

Best Specialty Store Mill Pond Mercantile

24 Main St N, New London, MN 56273 320-354-5557 www.millpondmercantile.com Runner Up Runner Up

Patina Marquet The Happy Sol

Best Tanning Salon

Apres Soleil Tanning Studio

1605 1st St S, Willmar, MN 56201 320-214-1532 Runner Up Runner Up

Glo Simply Beautiful

Bargains & Blessings Runner Up Runner Up

New 2 You Goodwill

Crow's Nest Tree Service Runner Up Runner Up

Stacy's Tree N Turf

Best Title Company

Best Used Car Dealer

1600 US-12, Willmar, MN 56201 320-252-5200 www.qualitytitlewillmar.com Runner Up Kandiyohi Abstract & Title Co.

28601 Hwy 55, Paynesville, MN 56362 877-241-9634 www.paynesvillechevrolet.com//?cs:pro=yext

Quality Title

Best Travel Agent R & J Tours

1408 Willmar Ave SE, Willmar, MN 56201 800-758-6877 www.rjtoursonline.com Runner Up Runner Up

Tonia Ridler- Travel by Tonia Des Weinandt - Travel Leaders

Koronis Chevrolet, Paynesville, MN

Runner Up Runner Up

Davis Motors Olivia Chrysler

Best Veterinarian Office South 71 Vet Clinic

4119 Abbott Dr, Willmar, MN 56201 320-235-7396 www.south71vet.com Runner Up Runner Up

Atwater Vet Spicer Vet Clinic

Best Tattoo Shop

Best Well Drilling

1303 1st St S #4, Willmar, MN 56201 320-979-2384 www.facebook.com/RelentlessInkMN/

11355 Hwy 71 NE, Spicer, MN 56288 320-796-2111 theinwell.com

Relentless

Runner Up

Camilla

Best Tent/Party Rental South Central Tent Rental

1009 16th St NE, Willmar, MN 56201 320-222-8368 www.southcentraltentrental.com Runner Up Runner Up

Grand True Value Rental Z Rentals Brooten MN

Thein Well

Runner Up Runner Up

Marcus Well Steffl Drilling and Pump

Best Window Cleaning Squeegee & Me

7595 N Shore Dr, Spicer, MN 56288 320-321-9033 squeegeeandme.business.site Runner Up

Rick Klavetter

Best of the Best 2020 | 77

WE CONTINUE TO GROW!

3 C O NV ENIE NT LO CAT IO NS!

2550 Hwy 12 E • 2000 1st Street S 212 2nd Street SW Looking for a job you will love? Well, you’ve found it. • 40% Profit Sharing • 401k Program • Excellent benefit package: Health, Dental, Vision plus more • Paid vacations, holidays & sick days • Family Owned Company • Advancement Opportunities • Energetic & Supportive Atmosphere

visit

kwiktrip.jobs or Text Jobs to 77887

Thanks for voting us your

#1 Fiber Glass Batting

Insulation Contractor!

• COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL • AGRICULTURE

CERTIFIED BIBS INSTALLERS FREE (blown-in-blanket) ESTIMATES UP TO 68% MORE EFFICIENT Blow-in-Blanket

Wade Skindelien 320-905-7773 19768 County Rd. 9 NE New London, MN wskindelien@hotmail.com

Spray Foam

thermosealinsulationmn.com

Thank You! We are honored to be voted #1 Best Pool & Spa Dealer two years in a row!

Owner Rodney Ziehl 320-235-5118 Located in the Kandi Mall paradise@paradisewillmar.com