Best of the Best 2014

2014[ Sponsored by ]

Best of the BestThe Watauga Democrat Presents

2014

Best Best OF THEOF THE Best Best Best of the Best 2014 April 2014

Appalachian Mountain Brewery makes a strong showing on Thursday evening at the Watauga Democrat’s Best of the Best event. Pictured from left, top row, are Danny Wilcox, Stephanie Spiegeleman,Sean Spiegeleman, Charlotte Beckner, Chris Ziebl, Nathan Kelschiek, Zach Siefts and Garrett Miller. Bottom row, from left, Mike Schriber, Jessica Collins and Tommy Lee.

Best OF THE Best

Business success is measured in many ways, but the measure that matters most is the one that comes from the way a business is

viewed by its customers.On April 10, that measure was on full

display during the Watauga Democrat’s Best of the Best 2014.

On that day, hundreds of business own-ers and their employees received the red carpet treatment in an event sponsored by Skyline/SkyBest and Peabody’s Wine & Beer, and centered on the business suc-cess of Watauga County.

Given the challenges of today’s fi nancial climate, that success is not easily ob-tained.

This was the message of event present-ers, including John Cooper, owner and chairman of Mast General Store.

But equally on target was the mes-sage about how that success is earned — through excellent customer service.

Awards were presented April 10 to the best of the best businesses, as chosen by their customers, at Boone United Method-ist Church in a dinner event that featured a true red carpet.

Mountain Times Publications publisher Gene Fowler Jr. and advertising director Charlie Price presented the awards.

A complete list of those wards, in addi-tion to dozens of pictures from the event, are found in the following pages.

Subscribers to Skyline/SkyBest cable TV can view a replay of the event at 9:30 p.m. on April 20.

For more presentation photos, and a story about the awards ceremony, visit www.wataugademocrat.com.

A measure of success

Best of the Best photos by Mark Mitchell

Earth Fare employees pose by the Best of the Best banner during Thursday’s event. Pictured are, from left to right, top row, Susan Murphy, Tara Stollenmaier, Jamie Hodges and Dawn Shumate. Bottom row, from left, Mary Scherger and Kellee Morgado.

April 2014 Best of the Best 2014

Dr. Lee Warren shows off a pair of awards garnered on Thursday during the Best of the Best festivi-ties. Warren captured Best Dentist and Best Public Servant.

BARBECUE RESTAURANTWoodlands Barbecue & Pickin’ Parlor ................................Winner

Bandana’s Bar-B-Q & Grill .......Finalist (2nd)Big Mo’s BBQ .............................Finalist (3rd)

BEST SERVICEThe Peddler Steakhouse .....................WinnerChick-fi l-A .................................Finalist (2nd)Joy Bistro ...................................Finalist (3rd)

CHINESE RESTAURANTHunan .................................................WinnerTaste Grill .................................Finalist (2nd)China Buffet ...............................Finalist (3rd)

COFFEE SHOPHigher Grounds ..................................WinnerEspresso News ..........................Finalist (2nd)

DELI/SUBSubway ................................................WinnerJimmy John’s ............................Finalist (2nd)Jersey Mike’s .............................Finalist (3rd)

FAST FOOD RESTAURANTChick-fi l-A ...........................................WinnerWendy’s.....................................Finalist (2nd)The Come Back Shack ...............Finalist (3rd)

FINE DININGThe Peddler Steakhouse .....................WinnerJoy Bistro ..................................Finalist (2nd)Gamekeeper ...............................Finalist (3rd)

FRENCH FRIESMcDonald’s .........................................WinnerBojangles ...................................Finalist (2nd)Five Guys ...................................Finalist (3rd)

HAMBURGERFive Guys ............................................WinnerWendy’s.....................................Finalist (2nd)The Come Back Shack ...............Finalist (3rd)

HOME COOKINGMountain House Restaurant ..............WinnerCracker Barrel ...........................Finalist (2nd)Proper ........................................Finalist (3rd)

Winners and Finalists

BestOF THE

Best

CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

2014

Check our website for Weekend Specials & Events

MONDAY

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2014

Thanks, for vot ing usBest Acupuncture Clinic!

Torrey Gorla, N.M.D., L.Ac., M.S.O.M.

610 State Farm Road, Suite B (behind WCEA) • Boone, NC 28607828-265-8668 • www.blueridgeintegrativehealth.com

Amy Nix, M.S.N., F.N.P. - C (AANP)

Blue Ridge Acupuncture & Integrative Health

2014

With our new medical division, we offer many more services to help you on your path to wellness:

Advanced Food Allergy Testing (ALCAT), Muscle and Joint Pain Relief using natural alteratives to

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Best of the Best 2014 April 2014

Thanks to our loyal our loyal

customers for your votes of

confidence!

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828.264.3991www.highcountry-insurance.com

[email protected]

2014

atau a

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HOT DOGTrolly Stop ..........................................WinnerHardee’s ....................................Finalist (2nd)Hill Top Drive-in .......................Finalist (3rd)

ICE CREAM/YOGURTSweet Frog ..........................................WinnerKilwin’s .....................................Finalist (2nd)Marble Slab Creamery (closed) Finalist (3rd)

ITALIAN RESTAURANTCasa Rustica Restaurant .....................WinnerPrimo’s ......................................Finalist (2nd)Bella’s Italian Restaurant ..........Finalist (3rd)

JAPANESE RESTAURANTMakoto’s Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar ....................................Winner

Hokkaido Japanese Seafood and Steakhouse .......................Finalist (2nd)

CoBo Sushi Bistro and Bar ........Finalist (3rd)

MEXICAN RESTAURANTDos Amigos .........................................WinnerLos Arcoiris ...............................Finalist (2nd)Mi Carreta ..................................Finalist (3rd)

PIZZA RESTAURANTMellow Mushroom .............................WinnerPizza Hut ...................................Finalist (2nd)Papa Johns .................................Finalist (3rd)

SEAFOOD RESTAURANTMike’s Inland Seafood ........................WinnerKnight’s on Main (closed) ........Finalist (2nd)CoBo Sushi Bistro and Bar ........Finalist (3rd)

SPORTS BARThe Rock Sports Bar and Grill............WinnerThe Town Tavern ......................Finalist (2nd)Café Portofi no ............................Finalist (3rd)

STEAKHOUSEThe Peddler Steakhouse .....................WinnerOutback Steakhouse .................Finalist (2nd)Sagebrush ..................................Finalist (3rd)

SUSHICoBo Sushi Bistro and Bar .................WinnerMakoto’s Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar ..........................Finalist (2nd)Harris Teeter ..............................Finalist (3rd)

ANTIQUE STOREAntiques On Howard ..........................WinnerBoone Antique Mall ..................Finalist (2nd)Vintage Vilas ..............................Finalist (3rd)

ART STORECheap Joe’s Art Stuff ..........................WinnerAlta Vista Gallery ......................Finalist (2nd)ArtWalk ......................................Finalist (3rd)

AUDIO STOREAudio Grooves ....................................WinnerRadio Shack ..............................Finalist (2nd)

BEST OF THE BESTCONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

Libbi Hendley, left, and Bryn Golob of Gladiola Girls have a little fun as they make their appearance at the Watauga Democrat celebration on Thursday.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5


AUTO PARTSCharlie’s NAPA Auto Parts .................WinnerCritcher’s Auto Parts ................Finalist (2nd)Advance Auto Parts ...................Finalist (3rd)

AUTO REPAIR SHOPAJ’s Tire and Auto ..............................WinnerAlray Tire and Auto ..................Finalist (2nd)Hampton’s Auto Body Shop ......Finalist (3rd)

BAKERYStick Boy Bread Company ..................WinnerPanera Bread ............................Finalist (2nd)Valle Crucis Bakery & Café ........Finalist (3rd)

BANKBB&T ...................................................WinnerWells Fargo ...............................Finalist (2nd)

BED AND BREAKFASTThe Mast Farm Inn .............................WinnerTaylor House Inn ......................Finalist (2nd)Inn at the Ragged Gardens ........Finalist (3rd)

BEER BREWERYAppalachian Mountain Brewery ........WinnerThe Blowing Rock Ale House ...Finalist (2nd)

BODY SHOPHampton’s Auto Body Shop ...............WinnerMack Brown Chevrolet .............Finalist (2nd)Johnny Sanders .........................Finalist (3rd)

BOOK STOREBlack Bear Books ................................WinnerCornerstone Bookstore .............Finalist (2nd)Appalachian Bookstore..............Finalist (3rd)

BICYCLE STOREBoone Bike & Touring ........................WinnerMagic Cycles .............................Finalist (2nd)

CABLE COMPANYCharter Communications ...................WinnerSkyline Membership Corp. .......Finalist (2nd)AT&T ..........................................Finalist (3rd)

CAR DEALER (NEW)Friendship Honda of Boone ...............WinnerMack Brown ..............................Finalist (2nd)Boone Ford ................................Finalist (3rd)

CAR DEALER (USED)Friendship Honda of Boone ...............WinnerUniversity Nissan .....................Finalist (2nd)Rollins ........................................Finalist (3rd)

CARPET CLEANERBush Carpet Cleaning .........................WinnerDolbier Floor Care & Restoration, LLC .....................Finalist (2nd)Elite Auto detailing ....................Finalist (3rd)

CARPET STORECarpet Store ......................................WinnerBlowing Rock Floors & Interiors ...............................Finalist (2nd)The Carpet House of Boone .......Finalist (3rd)


CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

Crystal Turbyfi ll of Serendipity Hair Studio fl ashes a bright smile during Thursday’s festivities.


CATERERBandana’s Bar-B-Q & Grill .......................................... WinnerBig Mo’s BBQ ..................................................... Finalist (2nd)Woodlands Barbecue & Pickin’ Parlor ..............Finalist (3rd)

CELL PHONE SERVICEVerizon Wireless .......................................................... WinnerCarolina West Wireless ..................................... Finalist (2nd)T-Mobile .............................................................Finalist (3rd)

CHILDREN’S CLOTHIERSBlue Bird Exchange ..................................................... WinnerOld Navy ............................................................ Finalist (2nd)Belk .....................................................................Finalist (3rd)

COMPUTER REPAIRDougnet ....................................................................... WinnerGeeks at Work .................................................... Finalist (2nd)Nordic PC ............................................................Finalist (3rd)

COMPUTER STOREStaples .......................................................................... WinnerWalmart ............................................................. Finalist (2nd)

COSMETOLOGISTCrystal Turbyfi ll ........................................................... WinnerAmber Moretz .................................................... Finalist (2nd)Karen Idol ...........................................................Finalist (3rd)

DANCE STUDIOHigh Country Dance .................................................... WinnerStudio K ............................................................. Finalist (2nd)Appalachian Rhythm ..........................................Finalist (3rd)

DAY CARE CENTERAppalachian Child Development Center ..................... WinnerGreenway Baptist Church .................................. Finalist (2nd)First Learning Center .........................................Finalist (3rd)

DEPARTMENT STOREBelk .............................................................................. WinnerJC Penney .......................................................... Finalist (2nd)Walmart ..............................................................Finalist (3rd)

DRUG STOREBoone Drug .................................................................. WinnerWalmart ............................................................. Finalist (2nd)Walgreens ...........................................................Finalist (3rd)

DRY CLEANERA Cleaner World .......................................................... WinnerInvershield ......................................................... Finalist (2nd)

EXERCISE GYMBroyhill Wellness Center ............................................. WinnerAnytime Fitness ................................................. Finalist (2nd)Deer Valley Sports & Fitness ..............................Finalist (3rd)

EYEWEAR STOREBlue Ridge Vision ........................................................ WinnerGraystone Eye .................................................... Finalist (2nd)Walmart ..............................................................Finalist (3rd)

FARM SUPPLY STOREMiller’s Supply, Inc. ..................................................... WinnerWatauga Building Supply .................................. Finalist (2nd)Boone Stockyards ...............................................Finalist (3rd)

CONTINUED ON PAGE 7


Andrea Anderson, left, and Kathy Hardin of Lucy Brock Child Development at ASU ham it up as they enter the Best of the Best celebra-tion on Boone United Methodist Church.

FOR VOTING US“THE BEST BURGER”

THANK YOUBOONE!

2014

IN TOWN, TWO YEARSSTRAIGHT NOW!

970 Rivers Street, Boone, NC828-264-7772 • www.CafePortofino.net

Follow us on Facebook & stay up to date on special events and daily specials!

Thanks for voting us

Best NightSpot in

WataugaCounty

2014


FIREPLACE SHOPFreeman Gas ................................................................ Winner

FLOORING STOREBlowing Rock Floors & Interiors ................................. WinnerLowe’s Home Improvement .............................. Finalist (2nd)Carpet One ..........................................................Finalist (3rd)

FLORIST/FLOWER SHOPLog House Florist ........................................................ WinnerBouquet Florist .................................................. Finalist (2nd)Artscapes .............................................................Finalist (3rd)

FUEL OIL DEALERThompson Gas/ Mountain Oil, Inc. ............................ WinnerAppalachian Energies ........................................ Finalist (2nd)Blossman Gas .....................................................Finalist (3rd)

FURNITURE STOREAppalachian Furniture ................................................ WinnerBadcock Furniture ............................................. Finalist (2nd)Big Lots ...............................................................Finalist (3rd)

GENERAL STOREMast General Store ...................................................... WinnerStone Mountain ................................................. Finalist (2nd)Cove Creek ..........................................................Finalist (3rd)

GIFT SHOPRivercross .................................................................. WinnerWatauga Medical ............................................... Finalist (2nd)Hallmark .............................................................Finalist (3rd)


CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

Daniel and Vanessa Minton share a kiss during Thursday’s Best of the Best gala at Boone United Methodist Church.

for voting usAGAIN

in Watauga CountyBest Draft Beer Selection

Over 30 Taps!

Best Pizza805 W. King St. • Boone, NC • 828-865-1515 • www.mellowmushroom.com

TTHANK YOUTHANK YOU

‘Get More Mellow’

2014


GLASS REPLACEMENTAppalachian Auto Glass .....................WinnerAction Auto Glass .....................Finalist (2nd)Miller Industries ........................Finalist (3rd)

GOLF COURSEBoone Golf Club ..................................WinnerWillow Valley Resort ................Finalist (2nd)Blowing Rock .............................Finalist (3rd)

GROCERY STOREHarris Teeter .......................................WinnerFood Lion ..................................Finalist (2nd)Ingles ..........................................Finalist (3rd)

HARDWARE STORELowe’s Home Improvement ...............WinnerMiller’s Supply, Inc. ..................Finalist (2nd)New River Building ...................Finalist (3rd)

HEATING AND AIRMountaineer Heating and Cooling .....WinnerEdmisten Heating and Cooling .............................Finalist (2nd)Boone .........................................Finalist (3rd)

HOBBY SHOPMichaels ..............................................WinnerPlan 9 Comics ...........................Finalist (2nd)Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff .................Finalist (3rd)

HOME DÉCORT.J. Maxx ............................................WinnerArtWalk .....................................Finalist (2nd)Savory Thymes ...........................Finalist (3rd)

HOME SECURITYCreekside Electronics, Inc. .................Winner

HOTELCourtyard by Marriott ........................WinnerHoliday Inn Express .................Finalist (2nd)Best Western ..............................Finalist (3rd)

INTERNET PROVIDERCharter Communications ...................WinnerSkyline Membership Corp. .......Finalist (2nd)AT&T ..........................................Finalist (3rd)

INVESTMENT COMPANYEdward Jones Investments ................WinnerAllen Wealth Management .......Finalist (2nd)

JEWERY STOREThe Stone Jewelers .............................WinnerSaslow’s Jewelers ......................Finalist (2nd)Old World Galleries ...................Finalist (3rd)

LANDSCAPE COMPANYMaple Ridge Landscaping ..................WinnerEstate Maintenance ..................Finalist (2nd)Mustard Seed .............................Finalist (3rd)

LUMBER STORELowe’s Home Improvement ..............WinnerNew River Building Supply ......Finalist (2nd)Watauga Building Supply ..........Finalist (3rd)

MAGAZINEAll About Women ...............................WinnerCarolina Mountain Life ............Finalist (2nd)HC Health ..................................Finalist (3rd)

MENS CLOTHIERBelk .....................................................WinnerOld Navy ..................................Finalist (2nd)Mast General Store ....................Finalist (3rd)

MOTORCYCLE/ATVHarley Davidson .................................Winner

MUSIC STOREKudzu Music .......................................WinnerAppalachian Music ...................Finalist (2nd)641 ..............................................Finalist (3rd)

NATURAL FOOD STOREEarth Fare ...........................................WinnerBare Essentials..........................Finalist (2nd)

CONTINUED ON PAGE 9


Megan Goheen of The Peddler displays a trio of awards The Peddler captured during the Best of the Best on Thursday.

YOUR VOTE OF CONFIDENCE BUILDS OUR FUTURE AND YOUR DREAMS

(828) 262-0773 • 1855 Blowing Rock Rd.

Hardware Store

Lumber Store

Appliance Store

Window/Door Store2014

Watauga Surgical Group, P.A.50 years of service to the High Country

We count ita privilegeto care for yoursurgical needs.

965 State Farm Road | Boone, NC 28607 | 828-264-2340www.wataugasurgical.com

Tim Edmisten,

MD, FACS

Anne-Corinne Beaver,

MD, FACS

Paul Dagher,

MD, FACS

Lionel van der Westhuizen

MD

Harold Frazier,

Jr., MD, FACS

Emily Moore,

PA-C

2014


APPLIANCE STORELowe’s Home Improvement ...............WinnerSears ..........................................Finalist (2nd)

NAIL SALONNatural Nails Spa ................................WinnerCity Nails ...................................Finalist (2nd)Crystal Creek ..............................Finalist (3rd)

NIGHT SPOTCafé Portofi no .....................................WinnerThe Town Tavern ......................Finalist (2nd)CoBo ..........................................Finalist (3rd)

OFFICE SUPPLY STOREStaples .................................................WinnerWJ Offi ce Supply ......................Finalist (2nd)

OIL CHANGEThe Oil Exchange ................................WinnerAlray Tire and Auto ..................Finalist (2nd)Boone Tire Center ......................Finalist (3rd)

PEST CONTROLQuality Control Termite and Pest ......WinnerA-1 Termite and Pest Control ...Finalist (2nd)Terminix ....................................Finalist (3rd)

PET STOREThe Pet Place ......................................WinnerPet Supplies Plus ......................Finalist (2nd)Mountain Dog and Friends .......Finalist (3rd)

PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIOElias Photography...............................WinnerAC Tanner .................................Finalist (2nd)Mark Branch ..............................Finalist (3rd)

POWER EQUIPMENTFarmers Rental and Power Equipment ......................WinnerBoone Rent-All .........................Finalist (2nd)Lowe’s Home Improvement ......Finalist (3rd)

PRINTING SHOPPrecision Printing, Inc. .......................WinnerCreative Printing and Internet Services ....................................Staples ........................................Finalist (3rd)

PROPANE COMPANYBlue Ridge Energies............................WinnerWallace Propane-Welding Supply .....................................Finalist (2nd)Blossman....................................Finalist (3rd)

SECONDHAND STOREGoodwill Industries ............................WinnerHebron Colony Ministries ........Finalist (2nd)Wee Cycle ...................................Finalist (3rd)

SKI SHOPAlpine Ski Shop ..................................WinnerFarmers Backside .....................Finalist (2nd)

SPAHeavenly Touch Spa ...........................WinnerWestglow Resort & Spa ............Finalist (2nd)Chetola Resort ...........................Finalist (3rd)

SPORTING GOODS STOREHibbett Sports ....................................WinnerSage Sports ...............................Finalist (2nd)Walmart .....................................Finalist (3rd)

STORAGE FACILITYBoone Self Storage ..............................WinnerBlue Skies Storage ....................Finalist (2nd)The Webb Company ..................Finalist (3rd)

TELEPHONE COMPANYSkyline Membership Corporation ......WinnerCharter Communications .........Finalist (2nd)AT&T ..........................................Finalist (3rd)

TIRE STOREBoone Tire Center ...............................WinnerClark Tire ..................................Finalist (2nd)Alray Tire and Auto ...................Finalist (3rd)


CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

The Stone Jewelers are all smiles as they pose with their award for Best Jewelry Store. Pictured are, from left, Karma Wilson, Ronnie Wilson, Kimberly Everhart and Jennifer Gorecki.

Douglas and Deanna Franklin captured fi rst place for Best Computer Repair on Thursday at Boone United Methodist Church.


R. Lee Warren

It has been my honor to serve the students, parents and staff

of Watauga County Schools for the past 16 years.

Thank you for the voteof confidence.

Best Public Servant

2014

U.S. Rep. Virginia Foxx addresses the audience gathered for the Watauga Democrat’s Best of the Best on Thursday evening.

249 Wilson Drive, Unit #4 • Near Boone Mall

Phone: 828.264.3896 • Fax: 828.264.7596

Our Most Sincere

For Your Vote Of Confidence

“Thanks”

Your Votes!

Courtyard by Marriott1050 Hwy 105 · Boone, NC828-265-7676

2014

Hosting meetings& eventsfor up to60 in our beautiful

Mountaineer Room

www.marriott.com/hkybn

Marshall C. Murrey, MD and Sue Sweeting, FNP

and Greenway MedicalAssociates

950 State Farm Road, Suite 300Boone, NC 28607

828-264-0550

We look forward to serving your healthcare needs in 2014.

2014

Thank you to our loyal patients.


Laura and Dr. Tim Edmisten make their entrance to the Best of the Best on Thursday night. Matt Vincent and Casey Hayes pose as Vincent displays the VPC Builders LLC award for Best Home Builder.

“Thank You”“Thank You”“Thank You”for voting us

Best of the BestBarbecue

in Watauga CountyHighway 321 Bypass, Blowing Rock

www.woodlandsbbq.com (828) 295-3651

The WoodlandsThe WoodlandsThe WoodlandsBarbecue & Pickin’ ParlorBarbecue & Pickin’ ParlorBarbecue & Pickin’ Parlor

2014


Appalachian New River Veterinarian employees enter Thursday’s Best of the Best gala. Pictured are, from left, Deena Kent, Randall McAdams, Miles Moody and Cathy Kreis.

Farm Bureau Insurance displays their Best Insurance Offi ce award. Pictured are, from left, Bradley Myers, Eddie Alejandro and Cameron Smith.

Dr. Susan Mast and Sammy Sambroia prepare for an evening of fun at Boone United Methodist Church on Thursday.

Thanks for voting us

Best Fast Food Restaurantin Watauga County!

828-264-46602082 Blowing Rock Rd • Boone, NC 28607

www.cfarestaurant.com/boone/home

2014

R. Lee Warren,DDS, MAGDDDS, PAR. Lee Warren,

OFFICE HOURS BY APPOINTMENTwww.boonencdentist.com

GENERAL DENTISTRY142 DOCTORS DRIVEBOONE, NORTH CAROLINA 28607

(828) 264-2762 FAX (828) 386-1468

Thank you to our family of patients for your trust and support the

last 41 years!

2014


TRAVEL AGENCYCruise One ..........................................WinnerTempleton .................................Finalist (2nd)

WINDOW OR DOOR Lowe’s Home Improvement ..............WinnerMiller Industries .......................Finalist (2nd)Watauga Building Supply ..........Finalist (3rd)

WINE STOREPeabody’s Wine and Beer Merchants ..........................WinnerWine to Water ...........................Finalist (2nd)

WOMEN’S BOUTIQUEGladiola Girls ......................................WinnerLucky Penny..............................Finalist (2nd)Monkees .....................................Finalist (3rd)

ACUPUNCTURE CLINICBlue Ridge Acupuncture .....................WinnerWellspring Chiropractic and Acupuncture Center .........Finalist (2nd)Boone Healing Arts Center ........Finalist (3rd)

ANIMAL CLINICAppalachian New River Veterinary ....WinnerAnimal Hospital of Boone ........Finalist (2nd)Animal Medical ..........................Finalist (3rd)

ATTORNEYTom Speed ..........................................WinnerEggers, Eggers, Eggers and Eggers ...............................Finalist (2nd)Dustin Stacy ...............................Finalist (3rd)

ASSISTED LIVINGAppalachian Brian Estates .................WinnerDeerfi eld Ridge Assisted Living ........................Finalist (2nd)Glenbridge Health & Rehabilitation .......................Finalist (3rd)

AUTO SALESPERSONDick Brookshire ..................................WinnerAlfred Glover.............................Finalist (2nd)Walt Hollingsworth ...................Finalist (3rd)

BEAUTY SALONSerendipity Massage ...........................WinnerHaircraft ...................................Finalist (2nd)Christy and Co. ..........................Finalist (3rd)

CHIROPRACTORGregory A. Hawthorne, DC ................WinnerDr. John P. Fidler, DC ..............Finalist (2nd)Dr. Brad Batchelor .....................Finalist (3rd)

CHURCHBoone United Methodist Church .......WinnerTimbered Ridge Baptist Church ........................Finalist (2nd)First Baptist Church of Boone ...Finalist (3rd)

CPADonald P. Thrasher.............................WinnerBryce Holder .............................Finalist (2nd)Ralph Leonard ...........................Finalist (3rd)

DENTISTR. Lee Warren .....................................WinnerMichael Taylor ..........................Finalist (2nd)Todd Moore ...............................Finalist (3rd)



Cove Creek Elementary School’s Tiffany Reece, displays her award for Teacher of the Year during Thursday’s gala.

Open Nightly at 5p.m.Reservations Recommended

All ABC Permits

Check out our new Catering MenuFeaturing appetizers such as salads, garlic bread,& antipasto platters. Also featuring lasagna & pasta options with vegetables, chicken, shrimp & sausage.For details visit us at casarustica1981.com

A Family Tradition for Over 30 Years

1348 Hwy 105 South, Boone ∙ 828-262-5128 ∙ casarustica1981.com

2014

Restaurant&Catering


Heavenly Touch Day Spa shows up in force for Thursday’s celebration. Pictured are, from left, Lori Candler, Lindsey Beasley, Justine Neely, Shelly Chadwick, Celena Patella and Kelli Mercer.


Lisa and Torrey Gorla of Blue Ridge Acupuncture, two-time winner of Best Acupuncture Clinic, smile for the camera during Thursday’s festivities.


ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORGary Trivette Electric Inc. ............................................ WinnerBlalock Electric Company .................................. Finalist (2nd)Glen Davis Electric .............................................. Finalist (3rd)

FAMILY DOCTORDr. Marshall C. Murrey ................................................ WinnerDr. Charlie L. Sykes ............................................ Finalist (2nd)Dr. Peter J. Haibach ............................................ Finalist (3rd)

FUNERAL HOMEHampton Funeral Service ............................................ WinnerAustin-Barnes ..................................................... Finalist (2nd)

GYNECOLOGISTDr. Cecilia F. Grasinger, MD ........................................ WinnerApril J. Greene, CNM ......................................... Finalist (2nd)Carrington Pertallion ........................................... Finalist (3rd)

HEARING AID SERVICEBeltone .......................................................................... WinnerBlue Ridge Ear, Nose, and Throat ...................... Finalist (2nd)

HOME BUILDERVPC Builders LLC ......................................................... WinnerMatt Vincent ....................................................... Finalist (2nd)Mark G. Ford Construction ................................. Finalist (3rd)

INSURANCE AGENTDaniel Minton ............................................................... WinnerAndy Harkins ...................................................... Finalist (2nd)Eddie Alejandro ................................................... Finalist (3rd)

INSURANCE OFFICEFarm Bureau Insurance ................................................ WinnerHigh Country Insurance ..................................... Finalist (2nd)State Farm Insurance .......................................... Finalist (3rd)

NEWS REPORTERSherrie Norris ............................................................... WinnerJeff Eason ........................................................... Finalist (2nd)Steve Frank .......................................................... Finalist (3rd)

NURSELaura Greene .............................................................. WinnerEvelyn Shelton .................................................... Finalist (2nd)Kathy Gustaveson ................................................ Finalist (3rd)



Lisa Cooper, left, and Olivia King of Rivercross display their award for Best Gift Shop on Thursday evening.


Serendipity Hair Studio & Boutique associates proudly show their award for Best Beauty salon. Pictured are, top row, from left, Jackie Aldridge, Ceirra Greene Murphy, Anna Isaacs and Cyrstal Turbyfi ll. Front row, from left, Amber Moretz, owner Debbie Isaacs. owner Carlene Greene and Debbie Warren.

Lane Robinson, left, and Ian Robinson of Creekside Electronics, Inc. show off their award for Best Home Security in Watauga County.

828-262-0555Southgate Shopping Center (Beside Walmart)

1750 Blowing Rock Road, Boone, NC (For GPS Users)

Come dine with Ben, Cindy, Rocky & FamilyServing the High Country Since 1990


Best ChineseRestaurant

in Watauga County4th Year in a Row!

HUNANCHINESE RESTAURANT

Thank You for Voting

AJ’s Tire and Auto

Best Auto Repairin Watauga County

359 East King Street | Boone, NC 28607 | 828-265-1150

Mon-Fri 8am-5:30pm | Sat 8am-2pm | Sun closed

2014


NURSE PRACTITIONERSue Sweeting ...................................... WinnerCarrington Pertallion ...............Finalist (2nd)Carol Scott ................................Finalist (3rd)

OPTOMETRISTDr. Jack D. Lawrence, OD ................. WinnerDr. Daniel J. Sullivan...............Finalist (2nd)Dr. Jeffrey Sutton, OD ..............Finalist (3rd)

ORTHODONTISTDr. Michael Mayhew, DDS, MS, PA .. WinnerDr. Rolland Roberts “Kim” Reed .............................Finalist (2nd)DR. Nicole Scheffl er, DDS, MS, PA ...........................Finalist (3rd)

PASTORDerrick Wilson ................................... WinnerDavid Ward ..............................Finalist (2nd)Roy Dobyns ...............................Finalist (3rd)

PHOTOGRAPHERApril D. Greene Photography ............ WinnerAshley Tanner ..........................Finalist (2nd)Lynn Willis ................................Finalist (3rd)

PLUMBING CONTRACTORBrooks Plumbing and Heating, Inc. .. WinnerTriplett Plumbing and Heating............................Finalist (2nd)Budget .......................................Finalist (3rd)

PUBLIC SERVANTR. Lee Warren .................................... WinnerLen Hagaman ..........................Finalist (2nd)Garrett Norris ...........................Finalist (3rd)



Karen Powell and Angus Lamond of Skyline Communications hold their Best Telephone Company award certifi cate for 2014.

Allic Woods, left, and Richie Absher of Five Guys Burgers and Fries show off their Best of the Bestaward for Best Hamburger in Watauga County.

Tina Townsend, left, and Sandy Yarchin of The Pet Place display their Best of the Best Pet Storeaward at Boone United Methodist Church.

2550 HWY 421 NORTH, BOONE • 828-297-5055WWW.APPALACHIANFURNITURESTORE.COM

THANK YOU CUSTOMERS FOR YOUR LOYAL SUPPORT!

2014

Four years in a row!!


REAL ESTATE AGENTChad Vincent ..................................... WinnerJason Eldreth ...........................Finalist (2nd)Tim Hagaman ...........................Finalist (3rd)

REAL ESTATE OFFICEVincent Properties, Inc. ..................... WinnerA+ Realty .................................Finalist (2nd)Weichart....................................Finalist (3rd)

SURGEONDr. Tim D. Edmisten, MD ................. WinnerDr. Paul S. Dagher, MD ...........Finalist (2nd)

TEACHERTiffany Reece ..................................... WinnerHope Combs ............................Finalist (2nd)

VETERINARIANDr. Susan Mast, Mast Mobile ............ WinnerDr. Howard Johnson ...............Finalist (2nd)Boyd Newlin ..............................Finalist (3rd)

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLParkway Elementary .......................... WinnerHardin Park Elementary .........Finalist (2nd)Bethel Elementary ....................Finalist (3rd)

MOTORCYCLEHarley Davidson ................................ WinnerHonda ......................................Finalist (2nd)



Mast General Store and Rivercross representatives make their way into the Best of the Best cel-ebration on Thursday. Pictured are, from left, John Cooper, Lisa Cooper, Hunter Martin, Olivia King and Mory Wood.

Charlotte and George Baunchalk of Subway smile as they display their award for Best Deli/Sub.

2014

THANK YOU!For voting us the Best of the Best Wine Store!

Be sure to come try our new Craft Draft Growlers.


PLACE TO HIDE FROM BOSSBathroom ........................................... WinnerParkway ...................................Finalist (2nd)

PLACE TO FIND A NEW FRIENDChurch................................................ WinnerWalmart ...................................Finalist (2nd)Boone Mall ................................Finalist (3rd)

PLACE TO WORKAppalachian State University ............ Winner

SOFT DRINKCoca-Cola ........................................... WinnerDr Pepper .................................Finalist (2nd)

TRUCKChevrolet ............................................ WinnerToyota ......................................Finalist (2nd)Ford ...........................................Finalist (3rd)


Terese Oliver and Joshua Riley of Chick-fi l-A enter Thursday’s Best of the Best celebration.

[email protected]

828-963-2600Susan Mast, D.V.M.

Mast MobilePET CARE &PET CARE & ACUPUNCTUREACUPUNCTURE, PLLC PLLC

We look forwardto serving ourfurry friendsin the year to

come!2014

THANK YOUfor voting

Mast Mobile as the Best Veterinarian

in Watauga County

Brenda and Michael Wagner of Boone Storage make their entrance on Thursday evening.


Hundreds of Watauga County’s fi nest gathered on Thursday to attend the Watauga Democrat’s 2014 Best of the Best celebration at Boone United Methodist Church.

(828)264 6006 or (800)467 45811440 Blowing Rock Rd, Boone NC

www.FriendshipHonda.com

We want to thank the community and especially our clients for voting us

Best New Car DealerAND

Best Pre-owned Car Dealer2014


Thanking our community for

and support for over 39 years.

2014

Appalachian New RiverVeterinary Associateswants to thank all of our

wonderful clients for voting us

218 Wilson Drive Boone, NC 28607 828.264.5621 • www.anrva.com

Come see us for your pet services including:Primary Pet Care

Advanced Dental CareOn-site Pharmacy

Boarding • Grooming

2014

BestVeterinarian

in Watauga County!

Serving the High Country since 1985

Natural Nails Spa

Best of the Best

2014

We are deeplygrateful to all

our loyal customers

4 years in a row!

www.naturalnailsboone.com(828) 265-1515

Award winners, from left, Mary Keplar, Marion Miller and Betty Farthing of Appalachian Auto Glass show off their Best Glass Replace-ment certifi cate.

CUS

TOM CATERING

CASUAL TO FORMA

L

2014

Thank you!To the many loyal and

supportive

customers we

are blessed to

serve, we

extend our

sincere

thanks along

with a

commitment

to do our

very best to

earn your continued support.


Chad Vincent displays his award for Best Real Estate Agent as voted on by the readers of the Watauga Democrat.

Grace Ward of Appalachian Furnitiure poses for the camera with her Best Furniture Store award.

Thank you to all ofour loyal customersfor voting Subway as the Best of the Best Sub Shop

2014

www.Subway.com

1542-B Hwy 421 SGateway Center

200 Watauga Village DrWal-Mart #2496

1

3

417 Blowing Rock Rd

1023 Blowing Rock RdExxon C-Store

2

4

*Boone locations only. Not valid with any other discounts, coupons, or offers.

Customer Appreciation Day: May 1st from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. FREE regular 6-inch sub with purchase of a chip & 30 oz. drink*

Winner of the Best of the BestWinner of the Best of the Bestfor Best Japanese Steak House!for Best Japanese Steak House!


Thank You for Naming UsBest Orthodontists!

373 BOONE HEIGHTS DR., BOONE, NC120 WILKESBORO AVE, NORTH WILKESBORO, NC

Martha Hardaway, DMD, MSBoard Certified

Amer. Board of Pediatric Dentistry

Stacy A. Conn, DMDBoard Certified

Amer. Board of Pediatric Dentistry

LEARN MORE! • VISIT US AT WWW.OPSMILES.COM

ORTHODONTISTS828 264 0110

PEDIATRIC DENTISTS828 264 5450

TOLL FREE1 800 478 6058

Michael Mayhew, DDS, MSBoard Certified

Amer. Board of Orthodontics &Amer. Board of Pediatric Dentistry

Nicole Scheffler, DDS, MSBoard Certified

Amer. Board of Orthodontics

Premiere Preferred Provider™

®

™

2014

Dan Hovancik of Goodwill Industries is all smiles as he holds his award for Best Secondhand Store.

Terri and Richard Miller of Kudzu Music show their happiness as they display their award for BestMusic Store in Watauga County.


WE SERVE THEBEST CUSTOMERS

IN THE WORLD!

220 Postal St • Boone, NC

www.mountaineerheatcool.com

(828) 264-6625

2014

Thank youfor yourvotes!

Jackie Fitzgibbon and Cody Holmes of CoBo Sushi Bistro and Bar captured fi rst place for Best Sushi in Watauga County.


(828) 297-7424

Commercial and Residential

•Landscaping•Maintenance

•Handscaping•Snow Removal

Best Landscapein

Watauga Countyfrom

Buddy, Johnny and Ronald Oakes

2014

SHOPS AT SHADOWLINESHOPS AT SHADOWLINEBoone, NC • 828 268 1510Petplaceboone.com

FOLLOWFOLLOW

US ONUS ON

thank you for voting usthank you for voting us

best pet storebest pet storeand allowing us to takeand allowing us to take

care of your pet’s needscare of your pet’s needs

- The Pet Place Team

2014


Daniel and Vanessa Minton smile as Daniel shows his award for being voted Watauga County’s Best Insurance Agent.

Dr. Jack D. Lawrence displays his award for Best Optometrist during Thursday’s festivities at BooneUnited Methodist Church.

Honest, Dependable and Affordable

Thanks for yourtrust in voting us

The Best in Computer

Repair!(828) 264-0959www.dougnetconsulting.com

375 Hwy 105 Ext., Ste. 4Boone, NC

• Networking• Hardware/Software• Laptop repair• Business/Residential

• On-site service available• Custom computer sales• Virus removal• System tune up

2014

Thank you for votingJack D. Lawrence, OD

Best Optometristin Watauga County

I look forward to serving you in the year to come.

150 Market Hills Drive, Boone, NC(888) 626-2020 • graystone-eye.com

2014


Gwen Dhing of Makoto’s Japanese Steak House and Sushi Bar displays the her award for Best Japanese Restaurant on Thursday night.

Dan Halsey, left, and Jeff Hampton of Friendship Honda of Boone show off a pair of awards won on Thursday. Friendship Honda captured Best New and Used Car Dealer.

Best of the Best 2014

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