Best of the Boat 2015

Winter 2015-16 | STEAMBOAT LIVING | 45

For a town with a population of 16,000, getting more than a third of them to vote considering many of those are children is no easy task. Yet thats what transpired in this years annual Best of the Boat contest, with the fi fth running of the event luring a record 5,686 voters to the polls to express their opinions about all things Steamboat.

In all, these voters cast 78,531 votes in 115 categories, from best cocktail to best carpet shop. In analyzing the num-bers, as well as showcasing the most vot-ers ever, this years contest also recorded

the most ties. Showing that our voters like to lick

their fi ngers, the smallest margin of victory came in best wings, which saw The Tap House Sports Grill best Carls by a beak, 200 to 198. Others won by a landslide, a veritable Nixon over Mc-Govern in 1972. Voters have no qualms about where they like to buy their booze (Central Park Liquor won by the larg-est margin) or Mexican food (arriba! Fiesta Jalisco for the fi fth year). There were also some upsets, especially with leading contenders such as Rio bowing

out of the running, leaving the Laundry free to waltz in and claim the cocktail prize with its fi ery margarita. And for the fi rst time, Back Door Grill usurped Big House Burgers in the coveted best burger category.

So, all in all, again it was a resound-ing success, painting a picture of our communitys opinion of everything from retailers and roofers to aprs options and Asian food. But enough of voting and results; now lets all get out there and support our podium fi nishers who help make Steamboat shine.

Five-year anniversary draws record resultsBest of the Boat Bonanza!

46 | STEAMBOAT LIVING | Winter 2015-16

BEST OF 2015

959 CENTRAL PARK LIQUORBEST LIQUOR STORE

718 CREEKSIDE CAFE & GRILLBEST BREAKFAST SPOT

675 LIFE ESSENTIALS DAY SPABEST SPA

594 PAWS N CLAWS ALL THINGS PETBEST PET STORE

593 FIESTA JALISCOBEST MEXICAN FOOD

564 CIAO GELATOBEST ICE CREAM/FROZEN YOGURT

513 SLOPESIDE GRILLBEST APRS

509 NOODLES & MORE SIAGON CAFEBEST ASIAN

489 MOUNTAINBREWBEST COFFEE SHOP

475 OLD TOWN HOT SPRINGSBEST FITNESS CENTER/GYM

TOP 10 VOTE GETTERS

FUNNIEST ANSWER:BEST MASSAGE:

ROUTT COUNTY REPUBLICANS!

BY THE NUMBERS78,531 TOTAL VOTES CAST

5,686 TOTAL VOTERS 115 SURVEY CATEGORIES14 CATEGORIES IN WHICH

RMR WAS LISTED

11 TIES, THE MOST OF ANY YEAR200:198 CLOSEST MARGIN (BEST WINGS)


TIED FOR SECOND PLACE

BEST VEGETARIAN MENU

FRESHIES AND SWEET PEA

RESTAURANTBEST FISHING GUIDE

KEITH HALE AND JOHNNY SPILLANE

BEST OF 2015

Year of the tieNo, its not the Year of the Tiger. Its the year of the tie, with this years contest resulting in more draws than there are in Vermillion Basin. By the time our talliers finished up, no fewer than 11 categories saw the votes come out even-steven, including five ties for third, two for second and four for first. Im not sure what it was, but it was the first time weve seen that many, says contest organizer Jenni DeFouw. And they happened in a wide range of categories. Next up: an arm wrestling match?

TIED FOR THIRD PLACEBEST GIFT SHOP

OFF THE BEATEN PATH AND STEAMBOAT ART COMPANY

BEST BEER

ALPENGLOW ALE AND HEFEWEIZENBEST CHIROPRACTOR

DR. DAVE LIBERMAN AND DR. RUSS SANFORDBEST DOCTOR

DR. PHAEDRA FEGLEY AND DR. CHARLIE PETERSEN

BEST FITNESS INSTRUCTOR

GRAHAM MUIR AND MARY BETH ARSE

TIED FOR FIRST PLACEBEST MARIJUANA STORE

GOLDEN LEAF AND ROCKY MOUNTAIN REMEDIESBEST PLACE FOR A HAIRCUT

10TH STREET BARBERSHOP AND HAIR ON EARTHBEST INTERIOR DESIGNER

OLIVIA KIMMETH AND VALERIE STAFFORD

BEST ATTORNEY

LARRY D. COMBS AND JASON LACY

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48 | STEAMBOAT LIVING | Winter 2015-1648 | STEAMBOAT LIVING | Winter 2015-16

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Voted BEST STEAK

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Certified Angus Beef BOEUIF1SJNF3JCJTTMPXSPBTUFEEBJMZ

Locally Owned and Operated Since 1984

Locally Owned and Operated

STEAMBOAT

HARDWARE

STEAMBOAT

WITH OVER 100 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

2015 Best of the BoatHome Supply Store,

Nursery/Garden Supplier & Home Decor Store


DININGSlopeside GrillBEST APRS SCENE

Creekside Cafe & GrillBEST BREAKFAST SPOT

Drunken OnionBEST CATERING SERVICE

Rexs American GrillBEST FAMILY DINING

Cafe DivaBEST FINE DINING AND BEST SERVICE

Mahogany Ridge Brewery & GrillBEST HAPPY HOUR

FreshiesBEST LUNCH SPOT

Noodles & MoreBEST ASIAN FOOD

Azteca TaqueriaBEST BURRITO

Hungry DogBEST HOT DOG

Mambo ItalianoBEST ITALIAN FOOD

Fiesta JaliscoBEST MEXICAN FOOD

Backcountry DelicatessenBEST SANDWICH

Ore House at the Pine GroveBEST STEAK

Sake2UBEST SUSHI

The Tap House Sports GrillBEST WINGS

Steamboat Meat & Seafood Co. BEST SEAFOOD

Double ZZ BEST RIBS

Daryl NewcombBEST SERVER

SHOPPINGSteamboat Ski & Bike KareBEST BIKE SHOP

The Tall TulipBEST FLORAL SHOP

Annies Home ConsignmentsBEST HOME DECOR STORE

Hofmeister Personal JewelersBEST JEWELRY STORE

Central Park LiquorBEST LIQUOR STORE

Allens ClothingBEST MENS CLOTHING STORE

Paws N Claws All Things PetBEST PET STORE

Ski HausBEST SKI SHOP AND BEST SPORTING GOODS STORE

Powder Tools BEST SNOWBOARD SHOP

SERVICESBobs Downtown ConocoBEST AUTO REPAIR SHOP

Discovery Learning CenterBEST DAYCARE

Old Town Hot SpringsBEST FITNESS CENTER/GYM

Haymaker Golf CourseBEST GOLF COURSE

State Farm - Debbie AragonBEST INSURANCE AGENCY

Lyon Drug Store & Soda FountainBEST PHARMACY

10th Street BarbershopBEST PLACE FOR A HAIRCUT

Dels Triangle 3 RanchBEST PLACE TO HORSEBACK RIDE

Native ExcavatingBEST SNOW REMOVAL SERVICE

Pet Kare ClinicBEST VETERINARY OFFICE

HOME & GARDENJoe Patrick RobbinsBEST ARCHITECT

Gecko Landscape & Garden CenterBEST LANDSCAPING SERVICE

Windemere Landscape & Garden CenterBEST NURSERY/GARDENING STORE

Tin Man RoofingBEST ROOFING CO.

Land Title Guarantee Co.BEST TITLE CO.

PROFESSIONALSLonny Vanatta, Vanatta OutfittersBEST HUNTING GUIDE

BEST FOR 5 YEARS

Five-time Winners Circle!Its hard to beat consistency. How else can you explain the busi-nesses that have won our annual Best of the Boat compilation a whop-ping five times running, and shown that dedication to excellence shines through in spades at the voting polls.

Thankfully, our Most Eligible Bachelor and Bachelorette categories werent listed

every year, meaning no one gets that dubious distinction five times straight (or the giant L that comes with it). And in our effort to refine the contest each year, some categories switch around, putting that years winner out of the running.

But the following winners and accom-panying photo spreads celebrating them, represent the pinnacle of consistency,

whether theyre hawking hot dogs or clipping hair here in Ski Town USA. With a special nod to Cafe Diva and Ski Haus, which have each won two categories five times, lets tip our collective cowboy hats to the following businesses that help make our fair little hamlet what it is.

And there was much rejoicing.



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From contract to closing

Our commitment to our clients is unequaled

- Locally owned, operated and trusted since 1967- 100% of our work is produced in our

48 Colorado offices- Committed to giving back to the

communities we serve

Steamboat Springs Office721 Oak Street

Steamboat Springs, CO 80487Office 970-870-2822

Melissa Gibson [email protected]

Visit www.LTGC.com for more information and a full list of our office locations.


DINING 5 YEARS

BEST BREAKFAST SPOT CREEKSIDE CAFE Kelly and Jason Landers have built a strong following for Creekside Cafe, enough that its won Best Breakfast Spot five times running. They pin their success on fresh, local ingredients, bottomless Italian coffee and friendly service. We prepare everything onsite, says Kelly. Our success owes itself to the support of the awesome Steamboat com-munity and our family of employees who have been with us since we started winning. Ample portions also help; we dare you to finish the Wafflelaughagus.

BEST CATERING SERVICEDRUNKEN ONIONCatering the biggest, the everyday and the in-between, Drunken Onions Ben Stroock says his success boils down to one simple ingredient: serv-ing the best food possible. His business in Wildhorse Marketplace offers everything from full catering and grab-and-take items to fine roasted coffees and specialty drinks. Food should taste as best as it can in the best scenario, Stroock says.

BEST SERVERDARYL NEWCOMBFor five-time Best Server winner Daryl Newcomb, of Cafe Diva, service comes with the fine dining territory. We treat everyone with courtesy and respect, he says, summing up his success. And it helps to have an awesome product.


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DINING 5 YEARS

BEST WINGSTHE TAP HOUSE SPORTS GRILL The Tap House Sports Grill owner Melissa Baker credits her wings five-time award to 12 homemade, special sauces, which help her and her staff sling as many as 5,000 wings on a busy night. People love them, she says. Some customers have even asked me to send them the sauce.

BEST HAPPY HOURMAHOGANY RIDGE BREWERY & GRILLOwners Charlie Noble, left, his wife, Nancy, and two children inside Mahogany Ridge Brewery & Grill. Mahoganys early and late night Happy Hours offer some-thing for all appetites and thirsts, from half-priced drinks and appetizers to $1 tapas. Locals love our consistency, says Charlie. They know exactly what theyre going to get every time they come in the door.

BEST BURRITOAZTECA TAQUERIADerek Beers prepares a burrito at Azteca Taqueria. Were a true locals spot, says co-owner Jonas Gabriel, who likes his burritos the good way, with cilantro rice, black beans, chipotle sauce, cheese, let-tuce, sour cream and picante salsa with tomato and corn. We like to work and play hard, just like everyone else.


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DINING 5 YEARS

BEST HOT DOGHUNGRY DOGFive-time wiener winner Hungry Dog is hands down the favorite dog in town. Steamboats a great hot dog town, says owner Brad Somers. Our hot dogs are 100 percent beef, were in a great location and were open late. The secret, he adds, is in the meat, with his dogs made from 100 percent Vienna beef. That, and the fact that he grew up in the hot dog hotbed of Chicago.

BEST LUNCH SPOTFRESHIESFreshies owners Scott and Kristy Fox inside their five-time Best Lunch Spot-winning eatery. Were fortunate to have strong local business, says Scott. We offer primo product that locals enjoy and, then word spreads to the tourists. Plus, our staff is awesome. We have fun at work and love what we do.

BEST RIBSDOUBLE Z BAR & BAR BQCredit the secret sauce, smoking and slow-basting for Double Z topping the Best Ribs podium for five straight, finger-licking years. People love our sauce, says owner Dave DK Kane, adding that, on any given day, theyll prepare up to 80 pounds of pork ribs and 30 pounds of beef ribs even more come Triple Crown season. Weve been doing it the same way for years.


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Winter 2015-16 | STEAMBOAT LIVING | 55Winter 2015-16 | STEAMBOAT LIVING | 55

Come see us at

10th Street Barber ShopBarber Shop

941 Lincoln Ave, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | 970-879-9809

Thank You for Supporting Us on Being, Once Again, The Best Place to Get a Haircut!* $&$1$("$( (,.-)-)0 / , ++$',3,-&$,# $(


WEAVERS WAGGINWASH PET GROOMING

18 years of making our pets look and feel better!

THANK YOU to all of the loyal dog and cat owners for

this vote of confidence!We so appreciate it!

Lynette & Linda

Weavers Waggin WashLocated in Oak St. Plaza

970-871-0021

1PMSBRM@C#CQRMDRFC#M?R5F?LIWMS4RC?K@M?RDEBBIE ARAGON STATE FARM INSURANCE


DINING 5 YEARS

BEST FAMILY DININGREXS AMERICAN GRILL & BARRex Brice, co-owner of Best Family Dining winner Rexs American Grill & Bar, says his whole family of restaurants owe their success to the people who work behind the bar, wait on tables, cook the food and make sure a friendly face is always ready to take care of customers needs. Its the peo-ple who work here that make Rexs a success, he says.

BEST STEAKORE HOUSE AT THE PINE GROVEFor five years running, there hasnt been a better place to order a steak than Ore House at the Pine Grove. Dating back to 1971, one of Steamboats oldest continuously operating restaurants is still one of its best. Our success begins with decades of expe-rience from our chefs and kitchen staff, says co-owner Diane Emert, who owns the restaurant with husband, Dan Emert, and Jeff Little. We pride ourselves in serving 100 percent Colorado Certified Angus Beef, hand-cut to ensure consistency and quality control. Our steaks are then grilled to perfection over an open flame broiler by talented professionals. Generations of local support have helped grow our business for over 45 years. Our pick: the Steak Ore House, a bacon-wrapped cen-ter cut filet topped with crab meat and barnaise.

BEST SEAFOODSTEAMBOAT MEAT & SEAFOOD COMPANYThirty-three years after first opening its doors, theres not much Steamboat Meat & Seafood Co. doesnt do, from catering to maintaining a full-service deli. But where it really shines is seafood supplying both locals and area res-taurants thanks to its use of everything from Fed-X to making twice-weekly forays to Denver to pick up fresh-flown seafood from DIA. At the heart of it all is owner Bill Hamils emphasis on fresh. Theres a lot of pride and passion in what we do, he says. Were hand-cutting fresh fish every day, and people appreciate getting it hand-wrapped in front of them. We also have good people who have been working here a long time. Its kept me in business for 33 years.


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Thank you Steamboat

Because of your support this year, we were able to Be great together!

Voted best Kids Program 2 years running

Check us out online or in person: www.bgcnwc.org 8th Street & Pine 970.871.3160

131 11TH STREET t 6AM - 2PM Downtown Steamboat

879-4925 t creekside-cafe.com

PROUDLY SERVING Chicken Fried Steak, biscuits and gravy, giant breakfast burritos, local thick cut bacon & more


DINING 5 YEARS

BEST ITALIANMAMBO ITALIANOLocated in the heart of downtown, Mambo Italiano is as Italian as it gets in the Rockies. Owned by Jeremy Gray and Andy George, the restaurant uses fresh, local ingredi-ents to stand out just as Italy does from the Mediterranean coastline. We take classic, Italian food and give it a modern twist, says head chef Hannah Hopkins. We have a great team that puts their heart into everything we do. Everyones super passionate about what we serve.

BEST APRS SCENESLOPESIDE GRILLFor Slopeside Grill, winning Best Aprs Scene five times running comes down to location, location, location. Skiers and riders can schuss right up to a 21,000-pound. ice bar, live music and heaping nachos straight off the slopes. Its a lively, fun atmosphere and great place to be after skiing all day, says manager Chris McIntosh.

BEST ASIAN FOODNOODLES & MORE SAIGON CAFEThe reason Noodles & More Saigon Cafe is in the five-time winners circle is authenticity. The Vietnamese cafe and sushi bar combines fresh ingredients with straight-from-Saigon spices to create traditional Vietnamese fare. Were dedi-cated to serving great meals at a good price in a relaxed set-ting, says co-owner Eric Nguyen.

BEST SUSHISAKE2USake2U has been in the Yampa Valley 12 years, starting on the mountain before moving to its current location along the Yampa River downtown. Owned by Kier and Eric Delaney, its fish is flown in fresh, and the restaurant is also known for its crazy good happy hour. You cant beat our view of the river or service, says general manager John Trolley. We keep a very high standard on everything we serve.


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DINING 5 YEARS

BEST SERVICE AND BEST FINE DININGCAFE DIVACafe Diva owners, from left, Beth Fadel, Paul Underwood and Kate Rench are flanked by the rest of the award-winning staff at Cafe Diva, winner of Best Fine Dining and Best Service a whop-ping five years in a row. The owners credit their hard-working staff for their success and take pride in providing top-level service to locals who support the busi-ness year-round and visitors who make Cafe Diva part of their vacations.

BEST MEXICAN FOODFIESTA JALISCOFiesta Jalisco credits its success to original, made-from-scratch family recipes, great service and a great atmosphere. People like good ser-vice and reasonable prices, says owner Mario Rodriguez, whose authentic Mexican atmosphere includes hand-carved booths and colorful Mexican tile work, paint-ings, sculptures and music. It all makes you feel like a little bit of Mexico.

BEST SANDWICHBACKCOUNTRY DELICATESSENMore than 16 years after opening, Backcountry Delicatessen remains a long-running staple of the Steamboat sandwich scene. Owned by David Pepin, right, and Peter Boniface, left, the eatery, that puts the deli in delicious, also has shops in Fort Collins and Denver, spreading the Steamboat sandwich love. We work with the best ingredients available, says Pepin, crediting their five-time winner status to great sandwiches and service. It feels great to be doing as well as we are after 16 years.


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970.846.2307 | 1755 Lincoln Avenue | Open 8AM-7PM | Dine In or Take Out

Your Local, Friendly Neighborhood Taco DealerSteamboats Original Taco Stand


SHOPPING 5 YEARS

BEST PET STOREPAWS N CLAWS ALL THINGS PETDave and Jodi Terranova moved their pet supply business to Central Park Plaza 18 months ago seeking more space. They found it, as well as a con-tinued loyal following. Their passion for animals has paid off, with their store winning Best of the Boat five years in a row. We love our customers and try to keep our prices competitive, Dave says.

BEST BIKE SHOPSTEAMBOAT SKI & BIKE KAREHarry Martin started Steamboat Ski & Bike Kare 20 years ago out of a garage on 11th Street. The shop moved into its current location on Lincoln Avenue in 2004, which Martin says has helped lead to its success as five-time winner of the Best Bike Shop category. But the backbone of the business, he adds, remains the locals who found the shop two decades ago on a side street and keep coming back.

BEST HOME DECOR STOREANNIES HOME CONSIGNMENTSAnnie Tisch has sold more than 115,000 items from Annies Home Consignment since she opened in Steamboat nine years ago. She says she strives to know as much as pos-sible about every piece in her store, which has helped propel it to top billing five times running. Sometimes, she says, when the owner knows the story of an item, its easy. But when no one has any idea what a con-traption is even used for, its harder. Finding out is one of the aspects of her job she enjoys most.


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970-870-8600 685 MARKETPLACE PLAZA, STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, CO 80847

pizza by the slice deep dish

fresh saladsbaked wings

Dine-in, carry-out or delivery.

Open every day.


www.RivertreeBuilding.com

Steamboat Springs, Colorado

[email protected]

970.846.9800 or 970.879.1016

Inspired by Nature, Built by Rivertree


SHOPPING 5 YEARS

BEST SKI SHOP AND BEST SPORTING GOODS STORESKI HAUSTwo, two, two milestones in one! Thats the jingle being sung by Ski Haus, which reeled in five-time winner accolades for both Best Ski Shop and Best Sporting Goods Store no easy task in a heralded ski town. Ski Haus has been a staple for sporting goods for decades in Steamboat, and its grown through the years right along with Steamboat Ski Area. Owner Rod Schrage, who has run the something-for-everyone shop for more than four decades, has overseen several big expansions, includ-ing the building of the current store in 2001 and an expansion in 2011. We just have a great, core family of employees, some of whom have been here for 30 years, says Schrage. When people walk in, they always see a friendly face. And Ski Haus is nowhere but Steamboat Springs. Its who we are.

BEST MENS CLOTHING STOREALLENS CLOTHINGIts all in the family and all about the locals for five-time Best Mens Clothing Store winner Allens Clothing. Whats driven us all these years is catering to locals, says co-owner Tod Allen. Theyve always been our number-one customer. We try to carry clothing that the everyday Steamboat person wears on a regular basis. (Pictured: co-owner Kris Allen.)

BEST JEWELRY STOREHOFMEISTER PERSONAL JEWELERSTom Cox and Shirl Cox have been operating Hofmeister Personal Jewelers, a family-owned busi-ness based in Indiana, locally for 10 years. Thats given them time to see couples who originally came in to purchase engagement rings and wedding bands get married and have children, who some-day might also come in to buy engagement rings of their own. And that, they say, is the secret to their success keeping prices low to satisfy the local customer base, which accounts for the majority of their business.


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15th

Where quality comes first!7LQ0DQ5RRQJDQG+RPH,PSURYHPHQW,QF

Thank you to our loyal team and clients for making Tin Man Roofing

One of Steamboats Best!





Since 1979%XGG\.LQJ


SHOPPING 5 YEARS

BEST FLORAL SHOPTHE TALL TULIP Kip and Amy Tirone, owners of The Tall Tulip, credit their downtown flower emporiums success to their service and selection for blooms in the Boat. All this has earned it a loyal following among towns flower connoisseurs. Were continually searching for the highest quality flowers from around the globe and bringing them to our friendly, blue shop on Ninth Street, says Amy. Thank you, Steamboat, for sup-porting our shop and bringing our flowers into your homes.

BEST LIQUOR STORECENTRAL PARK LIQUORFrom right, owners Patty Vargas, Greg Nealy and Glenn Wiedemer say the key to their success is the support of locals, who they try to win with their selec-tion. That means 2,400 varieties of wine and more than 400 kinds of beer, all of which are rotated by styles and brand to keep the selection fresh as they listen to their customers needs.

BEST SNOWBOARD SHOPPOWDER TOOLSSponsor of eight local kids on the U.S. Pro Team, includ-ing Matt Ladley and such Olympians as Arielle and Taylor Gold, five-time winner Powder Tools, which opened way back in 1988, prides itself on supporting locals and being a snowboarders one-stop shop dream. Were the only full-service snowboard shop in town, says manager Bernie Tomassetti. Thats all we do. We have it all a full-service tune shop, full rental shop, demos, retail and more. Plus, weve been around a long time, and our staff is incredible. Theyre all true snowboarders who are passionate, knowledgeable and have been here forever. With a casual atmosphere featuring couches and a fireplace, the shop appeals to kids, many from the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club, who often come inside just to mill around. Its my living room, he says. I love people coming in to hang out.


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COMMUNITY SERVICES & PROFESSIONALS 5 YEARS

BEST INSURANCE AGENCYSTATE FARM-DEBBIE ARAGONDebbie Aragons State Farm Insurance agency has called Steamboat home for 19 years, the past five winning towns Best Insurance Agency. They greet their clients with a smile, as well as homemade chocolate chip cookies baked each morning. We have a very professional, caring, experienced and fun team, Aragon says. Our goal is to make insur-ance a pleasant experience and provide service that exceeds our customers expectations.

BEST VETERINARY OFFICEPET KARE CLINICPet Kare Clinic has come a long way since it opened in a motor home in 1987. Why do people keep bringing their animals here and voting it Best in the Boat for the past half decade? I think its because we honor our mission statement every single day, and that is to treat your pet like one of our own, with unparalleled compassion, experience and teamwork, clinic manager Lorna Hamilton says.

BEST FITNESS CENTER/GYMOLD TOWN HOT SPRINGSIts easy to understand why Old Town Hot Springs has lapped the competition as towns best fitness center. Members have access to more than 45 different exercise classes each week in a world-class facility, and the staff includes 12 personal trainers. We take fitness to the next level, fitness director Marietta Roberts says. Outside the gym, a natural hot springs, complete with a back-massaging waterfall, helps sooth those sore muscles. Pictured, from left, are personal trainers Karen Cuevas, Mary Beth Magalis Arce, Leigh Ruston, Marietta Roberts and Rebecca Williams.


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BEST SUSHI FOR OVER 10 YEARS

609 YAMPA ST STEAMBOAT, CO 970.870.1019 www.sake2u.netHOURS Mon - Wed 3 to Close Thurs - Sun 11am to Close HAPPY HOUR DAILY FROM 3-6

More than a Sushi Restaurant... including Steak, Ribs, Salads & Wings

Live Music Vegan Friendly Weve got all your NFL Ticket on 6 HD TVs Like us on Facebook for Specials & Events

Reservations available including groups & private parties

BEST SUSHI FOR BEST SUSHI FOR OVER 10 YEARSOVER 10 YEARS

609 YAMPA ST STEAMBOAT, CO 970.870.1019 www.sake2u.netHOURS Mon - Wed 3 to Close Thurs - Sun 11am to Close HAPPY HOUR DAILY FROM 3-6

More than a Sushi Restaurant...More than a Sushi Restaurant...More than a Sushi Restaurant...More than a Sushi Restaurant...More than a Sushi Restaurant...More than a Sushi Restaurant...More than a Sushi Restaurant...More than a Sushi Restaurant...More than a Sushi Restaurant...More than a Sushi Restaurant...More than a Sushi Restaurant...More than a Sushi Restaurant... including Steak, Ribs, Salads & Wings including Steak, Ribs, Salads & Wings including Steak, Ribs, Salads & Wings including Steak, Ribs, Salads & Wings including Steak, Ribs, Salads & Wings including Steak, Ribs, Salads & Wings including Steak, Ribs, Salads & Wings including Steak, Ribs, Salads & Wings including Steak, Ribs, Salads & Wings including Steak, Ribs, Salads & Wings including Steak, Ribs, Salads & Wings including Steak, Ribs, Salads & Wings including Steak, Ribs, Salads & Wings

Live Music Live Music Live Music Live Music Live Music Live Music Live Music Vegan Friendly Vegan Friendly Weve got all your Weve got all your NFL Ticket NFL Ticket on 6 HD TVs on 6 HD TVs Like us on Facebook for Specials & Events Like us on Facebook for Specials & Events

Reservations available including Reservations available including Reservations available including Reservations available including Reservations available including Reservations available including Reservations available including groups groups & private parties & private parties & private parties

Arctic Liquors, located just west of town next to Ace Hardware, is your hometown liquor store. Come to Arctic Liquors for friendly

service and a great selection of beer, wine and spirits.

Owners Mark and Mimi want to remind you of the Arctic Rebate Program. 5% back on all purchases - No Restrictions!

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BEST DAYCAREFAMILY DEVELOPMENT CENTER/ DISCOVERY LEARNING CENTERFamily Development Center Executive Director Tami Havener cred-its the success of the Discovery Learning Center preschool to one thing: the teachers. Literally, we have hundreds of years of experi-ence among the staff, Havener says in recognizing the importance of winning the Best Daycare category for the past half decade.

BEST PLACE TO HORSEBACK RIDEDELS TRIANGLE 3 RANCHFor more than 50 years, Dels Triangle 3 Ranch has provided a unique experience for visitors and residents wanting to enjoy the outdoors by horseback, which is what the longtime local Heid family knows best. Once you leave the corrals, you dont see a lot of civilization, says co-owner Becky Heid. Its a great activity for anyone.

BEST GOLF COURSEHAYMAKER GOLF COURSEFor newbies and seasoned professionals alike, the 18-hole, city-owned Haymaker Golf Course offers something for everyone. Playing anywhere from 5,059 to 7,308 yards, its won Best of the Boat five times running, was given four stars by Golf Digest and ranks sixth in Colorado for Golf Weeks Best Courses. With only 110 of its 233 acres used for fairways and greens, it also preserves the open space legacy important to the local community.

BEST AUTO REPAIR SHOPBOBS DOWN-TOWN CONOCOFor the past 38 years, Bobs Downtown Conoco has been an iconic business along Lincoln Avenue. Today, it is the last ser-vice station standing downtown, and business is still booming for owner Bob Logan and his team. The mechanics and staff are key to their success. They really care and take a lot of responsi-bility in their jobs, Logan says.


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BEST SNOW REMOVAL SERVICENATIVE EXCAVATINGTheres a lot of snow in Steamboat, and for the past 30 years, Native Excavating has excelled at moving it. Charlie MacArthur, left, and Norman Hill head up the companys operations, plow-ing everything from large-scale parking lots to private driveways to keep Steamboat free and clear. MacArthur says offering a reasonable price and communicating with customers is key to the business. People dont mind driving through snow as long as they know were coming, he says.

BEST PLACE FOR A HAIRCUT10TH STREET BARBER SHOPRyan Seiler, pictured, is one of many clients who regu-larly has his hair cut by Katie Moore at 10th Street Barber Shop, the winner for the fifth year in a row of the cutting locks category. Were walk-in only, and were the only true barber shop, says Barbara Porteous, who owns the busi-ness with her husband, Kenny. Men like to feel like theyre truly coming to a place thats really for men.


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940 Central Park Dr. Suite 100970-879-3327 www.yvma.com

Your Comprehensive Primary Care practiceProviding integrated care management and behavioral health. Steamboats place for patient centered care.

Congratulations to Dr. Charlie Petersen and Dr. Lambert Orton on this years Best of the Boat!and Dr. Lambert Orton on this years Best of the Boat!


BEST HUNTING GUIDELONNY VANATTA, VANATTA OUTFITTERSHunters have been turning to five-time Best Hunting Guide Lonny Vanatta for more than 30 years. Vanatta, a former Alpine racer on the U.S. Ski Team, has taken more than 100 animals with a bow and has helped his clients bag even more. He does it for the lifestyle more than the money and says chasing big game runs in the family. We grew up hunting with our family and friends, and it was pretty much a way of life when we were young, he says. Now, we spend all fall on big game hunts, with about eight hunt-ers per week. We want our hunters to succeed.


BEST PHARMACYLYON DRUG STORE & SODA FOUNTAINFor years, Lyon Drug pharmacists have seen the same people walking through their doors. We have a lot of loyal custom-ers, says co-owner Wendy Lyon, crediting the staff for the five-time accolades. Weve been here for a very long time and appreciate everyones loyalty. Lyon Drug is located in the historic Squire Building downtown. Since 1920, there has been a drug store located in the building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.


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HOME & GARDEN 5 YEARS

BEST ARCHITECTJOE PATRICK ROBBINSTheres a reason Joe Patrick Robbins has kept his local archi-tecture firm small for the past 40 years. Its so I can provide the best service, Robbins says. The theorys worked, as hes topped the Best Architect podium five times running. I feel Im very good at listening to what the client needs, beyond what they want, he says.

BEST LANDSCAPING SERVICE CENTERGECKO LANDSCAPE & GARDEN CENTERFor 18 years, Yampa Valley residents have come to Gecko Landscape & Garden Center to spruce up their lawns. Owner Dave Ince says its the personal service that keeps customers com-ing back. Personal service in a community like Steamboat is always appreciated, he says. Were also bringing in the best quality plants we can find.

BEST TITLE COMPANYLAND TITLE GUARANTEE CO. With more than 45 offices state-wide, including its Steamboat office at 721 Oak St., Land Title Guarantee Co. has been locally owned and operated in Denver since it first opened its doors in 1967. This year marks the fifth in a row the Steamboat office has won top title company accolades.


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last 15 years!


HOME & GARDEN 5 YEARS

BEST NURSERY/GARDENING STOREWINDEMERE LANDSCAPE & GARDEN CENTERWindemere Landscape & Garden Center owner Talina Teixeira credits her stores success to its location, variety and selection, which includes everything from trees to its top-selling perennials. We have something for most everyones landscape or gardening needs, she says. It means a lot to win the category five times in a row.

BEST ROOFING COMPANYTIN MAN ROOFINGBuddy King, center, says his staff at Tin Man Roofing is the hardest working, most loyal crew you can find. King, who has been in Steamboat since 1974, also has managed to keep his business thriving through recent challenges. While King has suffered three strokes since 2012, his wife, Joanie, says he has kept trucking along. Ive watched him fight not once, but three times, to come back and be the best he can be, Joanie says. He has managed to not only hang on to Tin Man Roofing, but to make it thrive.


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The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team.

Phill Jackson

Cook is Northwest Colorados oldest and most reliable automotive source. Locally owned and locally operated, Cook has been serving

the Yampa Valley for over 50 years!

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Congratulations to Best of the Boat toP three Car salesPeoPle:

steve Dunklin, stacey rogers, and Jorge sanchez

Jorge sanChez

staCey rogers

steve Dunklin


Drawing more responses than nearly all other categories combined, dining reigns supreme as Best of the Boats most hotly contested category. From best bar to best burrito, food afi cionados voted in droves to make their voices heard, anointing favorite front-runners their fi fth annual crown, while bestowing newcomers with podium accolades, as well. Some of the closest categories included best wings, where just two votes separated the win-ners, and best cocktail, a fi eld that was wide open after Rio salted the rim of its last mar-garita. Perhaps no category drew more attention than best sandwich, where a Dagwood-esque deluge nearly broke our computers. Steamboat locals are certainly pretty opinionated about their sandwiches, says contest organizer Jenni DeFouw.

Best Aprs Scene (On the Mountain)First: Slopeside GrillSecond: T Bar at SteamboatThird: The Paramount

Best BarFirst: Carls TavernSecond: Sunpies BistroThird: Mahogany Ridge Brewery & Grill

Best BartenderFirst: Glen, La MontanaSecond: Richard Gooch Shine, Sunpies BistroThird: JJ, Laundry

Best Breakfast SpotFirst: Creekside Cafe & GrillSecond: FreshiesThird: Winonas

Best Catering ServiceFirst: Drunken OnionSecond: Steamboat Meat & Seafood Co.Third: Marnos Custom Catering

Best Coffee ShopFirst: MountainBrewSecond: StarbucksThird: Off the Beaten Path

Best Family DiningFirst: Rexs American GrillSecond: Carls TavernThird: Ore House at the Pine Grove

Best Fine DiningFirst: Cafe DivaSecond: bistro c.v.Third: E3 Chophouse

Best Food TruckFirst: Skull Creek GreekSecond: Taco CaboThird: Y Not Wagon

Best Happy HourFirst: Mahogany Ridge Brewery & GrillSecond: E3 ChophouseThird: Carls Tavern

Best Lunch SpotFirst: FreshiesSecond: Creekside Cafe & GrillThird: Winonas

Best Outdoor DiningFirst: Creekside Cafe & GrillSecond: E3 ChophouseThird: Aurum Food & Wine

Best Place to Watch the GameFirst: Carls TavernSecond: The Tap House Sports GrillThird: Slopeside Grill

Best ServerFirst: Daryl Newcomb, Cafe DivaSecond: David Dolifka, Off the Beaten PathThird: Tom Stefanelli, Ore House at the Pine Grove

DINING WINNERS

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Steamboat Springs Independent Bookstoreand Locals Favorite Meeting Place

Ranked in 2015 Best of the Boat: 0( "(-+ 0# ,,(* 0"#%*'+# ,,(*

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DINING WINNERS

When they opened Back Door Grill in June 2014 initially operating out of the back door of Ghost Ranch co-owners David and Brandi Eliasons vision was simple, direct and clear: offer Steam-boat residents great burgers at reason-able prices.

Based on the opinions of those same residents readers recently voted the homey Oak Street eatery as Best of the Boats Best Burger, ending the four-year reign of Big House Burgers theyve reached that goal and then some.

The secret, they say, lies in quality ingredients, a laid back atmosphere and a commitment to offering great food at reasonable prices.

We built it for locals, not to make a bunch of money, David says. We wanted good burgers for our family and were proud to serve our guests the same thing.

Brandi is quick to agree.I grew up in Southern California,

where everything was funky and fun, she says. We just wanted a place to give our kids the things we grew up with.

After four months operating at Ghost Ranch, the Eliasons seized the opportu-nity to relocate to their current location

a two-story, woodframe building at 825 Oak St., in November 2014. The ground floor serves as the restaurant, while the upper level houses The Bar at Back Door, offering a juke box, a video arcade and one of the best selections of beers and liquors in town.

As a bonus, the same food is available both upstairs and down.

Boasting a burger menu that features such colorfully named offerings as the Afterburner, John Wayne, Dirty Harry (appropriately, served on a glazed donut) and Triple Lindy, Back Door has something to suit nearly every palate.

David says the phrase fun and funky sums up their winning philosophy, from their decor to putting things like peanut butter, donuts and corndogs on burgers.

Were serious about the quality of the food we serve, he says. But its a burger joint were not gonna wine and dine you. Were gonna get you a burger and a beer, and thats what we want people to expect. We also like playing around with different recipes.

Despite their philosophy of making things fun both for themselves and for the locals to whom they primarily

cater the Eliasons add that quality and value is serious business. Thats the most important thing the food, Brandi says, adding that all their burgers are made with never-frozen, 100-percent Colorado beef. Then the atmosphere is just fam-ily, Brandi says.

This combination has struck a chord with Steamboat locals.

There are always people here, and thats a good thing, David says. I never expected to do as much business as were doing.

Spurred by this success, the Eliasons are now looking to expand. Theyre put-ting the finishing touches on their new-est venture ONeil Tavern and Grill which is slated to open on Lincoln Avenue in late November, and they are looking at other mountain town locations for additional Back Door Grills.

We want to grow Back Door Grill throughout the Rockies, David says. Were both from the beach and love the mountains.

From the look of things, the moun-tains love them back.

Jim Patterson

BACK DOOR GRILL

BEST BURGER

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Best Asian FoodFirst: Noodles & MoreSecond: Sake2UThird: Sambi Canton

Best Brew Pub/Place to Get a BeerFirst: Mahogany Ridge Brewery & GrillSecond: Butcherknife Brewing CompanyThird: Storm Peak Brewing Co.

Best BurritoFirst: Azteca TaqueriaSecond: Fiesta JaliscoThird: Taco Cabo

Best CocktailFirst: Fiery Margarita, LaundrySecond: Hurricane, Sunpies BistroThird: Martini, Harwigs Lapogee

Best DessertFirst: Cupcakes, MountainBrew Second: Creme brulee, Cafe DivaThird: Mountain mud pie, Ore House at the Pine Grove

Best HamburgerFirst: Back Door GrillSecond: Big House BurgersThird: Carls Tavern

Best Hot DogFirst: Hungry DogSecond: Johnny B. Goods DinerThird: Double Z Bar & Bar BQ

Best Ice Cream/Frozen YogurtFirst: Ciao GelatoSecond: Lyon Drug Store & Soda FountainThird: Dairy Queen

Best Italian FoodFirst: Mambo ItalianoSecond: Mazzolas Majestic Italian DinerThird: Cuginos

Best Locally Brewed BeerFirst: Amputator, Butcherknife Brewing CompanySecond: 4 Wire Pale Ale, Storm Peak Brewing Co.

Third (Tied): Alpenglow Ale, Mahogany Ridge Brewery & GrillThird (Tied): Hefeweizen, Butcherknife Brewing Company

Best Mexican FoodFirst: Fiesta JaliscoSecond: Vaqueros Mexican Restaurant & TaqueriaThird: La Fiesta Grill & Cantina

Best PizzaFirst: Blue Sage PizzaSecond: Brooklynns PizzeriaThird: Papa Murphys

Best RibsFirst: Double Z Bar & Bar BQSecond: Moes Original Bar B QueThird: Steamboat Smokehouse

Best SandwichFirst: Backcountry DelicatessenSecond: Cruisers Sub ShopThird: Freshies

Best SteakFirst: Ore House at the Pine GroveSecond: E3 ChophouseThird: Cafe Diva

Best SushiFirst: Sake2USecond: Noodles & MoreThird: YAMA

Best Vegetarian MenuFirst: ROOTZSecond (Tied): FreshiesSecond (Tied): Sweet Pea Restaurant & MarketThird: Bamboo Market

Best WingsFirst: The Tap House Sports GrillSecond: Carls TavernThird: Steamboat Smokehouse

DINING WINNERS

FOOD SPECIALTIES

Pressed for how many chicken wings The Tap House Sports Grill might go through in a year, owner Melissa Baker hammers at an adding machine, count-ing pounds by the day, the week and the month.

Finally, exasperated, she settles on the only answer she can.

A lot, she says.Indeed, The Tap House goes through

a lot of wings, each dipped in one of 12 special sauces. After nearly two decades of frying up wings by the bakers dozen, The Tap House was again selected as the top spot in Steamboat to enjoy them.

It was close. Carls Tavern came exactly two votes shy of The Tap House in this years voting, but again its the Lincoln Street sports haven thats stand-ing on top.

Baker says its taken plenty of focus to stay at the top of the heap for five consecutive years. One of the keys, she adds, is those sauces, a dozen that pack variety into the menu.

Years ago, they were largely supplied by local sauce manufacturer Wing Time Buffalo Wing Sauce, but when Wing Time was bought by a larger company in 2013, The Tap House decided to try its own hand at sauce production.

Now, all its sauces are made in-house.There are the basic options, of course:

your mild, medium and hot varieties. And there are fun derivatives, such as Jamaican jerk and Sriracha honey two of Bakers favorites. Then, there are vari-eties that are different, yet popular with the local crowd, including spicy garlic parmesan. And then, there are the ones that prompt quizzical looks, such as the peanut butter and jelly sauce.

You either love those or hate them, Baker says. I get emails from people saying they crave them and they want me to send them some of the sauce, but theyre not really my favorite. Theres not usually a middle of the road.

Customers have given plenty of them a try. On Tuesdays weekly Wing

Night, when wings are just 50 cents, the restaurant can go through more than 800 pounds and 5,000 wings. So while Baker has a hard time adding it all up, it all adds up to another place on the podium for Steamboats favorite place to get wings.

Joel Reichenberger

TAP HOUSE BEST WINGS

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DINING WINNERS

As a full service coffee shop, go-to breakfast stop, deli with lunches and grilled offerings galore and a store offering a va-riety of take-and-bake options, the Drunken Onion is far more than just a catering company.

With the tagline Caters the biggest, the everyday and the in-between, Drunken Onion chef and owner Ben Stoock provides heat-and-serve meals from his Wildhorse Marketplace location to help those needing nourishment during late hours or to relieve the stress of dining out.

Options includes blackened chicken with lemon chive aioli, mac n cheese, pan fried pork chops, pizzas, lasagna, enchi-ladas, sandwiches and more, from full-service catering to the casual pick up and go. He also offers a variety of frozen and chilled items that change with the seasons, along with a sit-down area for lunch.

Stroock moved to Steamboat in 1993 after graduating from the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco. After his res-taurant The Main Dish closed, he worked on his idea of a full-service catering company and business offering casual take out meals for a few years until he opened Drunken Onion in 2007.

Since then hes prided himself that the local establishment has taken fi rst place in the catering category for the past fi ve years, highlighting hardworking employees and the consistency and quality of food.

Stroock says his parents had a tremendous impact on him. What I learned from them is professional pride and qual-

ity, Stroock says. If Im not excited to eat it, someone else wouldnt be either. Food should taste as best as it can in the best scenario.

Audrey Dwyer

DRUNKEN ONIONBEST CATERING SERVICE

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DINING WINNERS

With house-infused spirits and a great drink philosophy and perennial mar-garita favorite Rio out of the running after shutting its doors in August its not hard to guess why Laundrys Fiery Mar-garita takes best cocktail for 2015. Cre-ated by Tod JJ Johnson for the opening of Laundry in 2012, the elixir exemplifies his mixology philosophy of making the drinks from the bar just as creative as the food from the kitchen.

When Laundry was working through menu options, it set out to be among the first in the area to emphasize modern, creative craft cocktails. It all starts with a great base, or inspiringly infused alcohol, before adding a citrus and the perfect amount of sweetness. Ingredients such as house-crafted simple syrups and bitters boost the creativity.

The Fiery Margarita answers the craft cocktail calling with its silver tequila, infused with red peppers, green peppers, jalapeo, garlic and six habanera peppers

for three weeks before being combined with house-made cilantro lemongrass simple syrup and orange and lime juices. The syrup gives the concoction its bright color and mellows the peppers. Johnson says the mixture creates a perfect bal-ance, just like you should find in a great margarita.

Bartenders at Laundry can concoct any infused spirit they can think up. The only caveat it must be sold and cant be thrown away. Thats never been a prob-lem with the Fiery Margarita.

Laundry bartenders say they have become better at their profession because of Johnsons commitment to beverage perfection. If ever suspicious or unsatis-fied with a drinks mixture, hell sample it and order it remade, if necessary, no matter how busy the bar may be. And the bar is busy aplenty with aficionados of the Fiery Margarita.

Mackenzie Yelvington

FIERY MARGARITABEST COCKTAIL

THANKS FOR SUPPORTING US ONCE AGAIN FOR BEST ITAL IAN RESTAURANT

521 LINCOLN AVE.970.870.0500

MAMBOS.COMOPEN NIGHTLY AT 4 P.M.


BUSINESS & COMMUNITY WINNERS

Best Auto Repair ShopFirst: Bobs Downtown ConocoSecond: Docs Auto ClinicThird: Elk Mountain Automotive

Best BankFirst: Yampa Valley BankSecond: Wells FargoThird: Alpine Bank

Best Computer RepairFirst: Ski Town ComputingSecond: Northwest Data ServicesThird: Mac Ranch

Best DaycareFirst: Discovery Learning CenterSecond: Young TracksThird: Holy Name Preschool

Best Fishing OutfitterFirst: Steamboat FlyfisherSecond: Straightline Outdoor SportsThird: Bucking Rainbow

Best Fitness Center/GymFirst: Old Town Hot SpringsSecond: Anytime FitnessThird: Steamboat Pilates, Yoga & Fitness

Best Golf CourseFirst: Haymaker Golf CourseSecond: Rollingstone Ranch Golf ClubThird: Catamount Ranch & Club

Best Guest RanchFirst: Saddleback RanchSecond: Home RanchThird: Dels Triangle 3 Ranch

Best Indoor Music VenueFirst: Strings Music PavilionSecond: SchmiggitysThird: Chief Theater

Best Insurance AgencyFirst: State Farm - Debbie AragonSecond: State Farm - Dax MattoxThird: Alpine Insurance

Best Kids ProgramFirst: Boys and Girls Club of Steamboat SpringsSecond: Steamboat Springs Winter Sports ClubThird: City of Steamboat Springs Youth Programs

Best Nail SalonFirst: Steamboat NailsSecond: Exclusive NailsThird: Wildhorse Salon

Best Outdoor Adventure Company (Summer)First: BAP!Second: Straightline Outdoor SportsThird: Bucking Rainbow

Best Outdoor Adventure Company (Winter)First: Steamboat PowdercatsSecond: Steamboat Ski & Resort Corp.Third: BAP!

Best Pet GroomerFirst: Weavers Waggin WashSecond: Doggy Style Mobile Pet Grooming

Third: Powder Hounds Grooming Salon

Best Pet KennelFirst: Red Rover ResortSecond: RK Pet RanchThird: Rocky Mountain Pet Resort

Best PharmacyFirst: Lyon Drug Store & Soda FountainSecond: SafewayThird: Walgreens

Best Physical Therapy PracticeFirst: Johnson & Johnson Physical TherapySecond: SportsMed at Yampa Valley Medical CenterThird: Kinetic Energy

Best Place for a HaircutFirst (Tied): 10th Street Barber ShopFirst (Tied): Hair On EarthSecond: Wildhorse SalonThird: Brio Salon

Best Place to Horseback RideFirst: Dels Triangle 3 RanchSecond: Saddleback RanchThird: Hahns Peak Roadhouse

Best Printing ShopFirst: PostNet of Steamboat SpringsSecond: Northwest GraphicsThird: Element Print and Design

Best Property Management CompanyFirst: RetreatiaSecond: Wyndham Vacation RentalsThird: Central Park Management

Best Radio StationFirst: 96.9 KBCR Big Country RadioSecond: 105.5 KFMU Colorado Classic RockThird: 88.5 KUNC Public Radio for Northern Colorado

Best Snow Removal ServiceFirst: Native ExcavatingSecond: Gecko Landscape & Garden CenterThird: City of Steamboat Springs

Best SpaFirst: Life Essentials Day SpaSecond: Rocky Mountain Day Spa, Boutique & SalonThird: Waterside Day Spa

Best Towing ServiceFirst: Rocky Mountain TowingSecond: American Towing & Road ServiceThird: Sunshine Mountain Auto Towing

Best Veterinary OfficeFirst: Pet Kare ClinicSecond: Steamboat Veterinary HospitalThird: Mount Werner Veterinary Hospital

No matter the category, its the people who live here who make Steamboat so great. Thats where our business and community category comes in, shining light on everyone from artists and ski patrollers to those in the

service industry who call the Yampa Valley home. While they might go about their business humbly, its their peers who voted them onto the podium. Head to any business district, and youll find every service under the sun, from doc-

tors and dentists to vets, florists, mechan-ics and more, all bringing to their work the happy, can-do attitude and smile that comes with living in Steamboat. Read on for a closer look at a few of years winners.

BUSINESS & COMMUNITY


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Offering a skiers paradise for the past 33 years, Steamboat Powdercats, one of the largest snow cat operations in the lower 48, left other contenders in its tracks in this years Best Outdoor Adven-ture Company category for winter. How could it not when it helps people ski or ride some of the best powder theyve ever seen?

Although Mother Nature controls how much powder skiers and snowboarders can experience, the company combines infrastructure, knowledge and the exper-tise of their guides, as well as incredible snow and terrain, to offer its guests an unforgettable experience.

Every day, its like people are coming home, says manager Kent Vertrees, who has been with the company since 2000. Our guides develop a camaraderie with each other and with the guests. We help satisfy peoples adventures by taking them on a dream ski trip and let them experience something were super pas-sionate about. Were lucky to have that opportunity.

Since the companys founding in 1983, it has guided everyone from locals and visitors to such celebrities as Martina Navratilova, Cindy Nelson, Dr. Richard Steadman, Klaus Obermeyer and Seth Morrison. Even Warren Miller has fi lmed

a few face shots with the local company.Guiding as many as 36 guests per day

and 2,000 skiers and riders per year in the Buffalo Pass backcountry which regularly vies with Wolf Creek Pass for the states deepest snowfall Powder-cats is known for its family atmosphere and for offering the adventure of a lifetime.

For us, its an opportunity to provide people with the best day of skiing in their life, Vertrees says. Its a great feel-ing seeing the smile on peoples faces after a beautiful, fresh ski run.

Audrey Dwyer

POWDERCATSBEST OUTDOOR ADVENTURE COMPANY (WINTER)



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SERVING DINNER & HAPPY HOUR DAILY. RANCH TO TABLE.

E3 Chophouse placed in Best F ine Dining , Best Happy Hour, Best Outdoor Dining and Best Steak

RESERVATIONS: 970 879 7167 OR E3CHOPHOUSE.COM701 YAMPA ST, STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, CO 80487



Its a dog-eat-dog business world out there, so its no surprise the inaugural best kennel distinction goes to the areas longest-operating pet boarding facility Red Rover Resort.

The Milner kennel was opened by owner Carol Bloodworth in 1995, back when she was still keeping busy with her other practice of running sled dog tours.

Bloodworth gave up sled dog racing five years ago to focus on the expanding kennel facility, which was rebuilt in 2006 and can now house 30 to 40 dogs at a time, depending on how many pooches are bunked up with siblings in the same kennel.

Ive totally gone to the dogs, says Bloodworth, who operates the kennel with a few full- and part-time employees

throughout the year.What sets Red Rover Resort apart from

the competitors?Theres a lot more individual atten-

tion, playgroups and a low-stress envi-ronment, says Bloodworth, who lives up the hill from the facility with her own six Alaskan huskies. Its really nice and pri-vate, and we have a big yard to play in.

Dogs get to mix and mingle with other pups four times a day and have year-round outdoor time thanks to arti-ficial grass turf in the spacious, fenced outdoor play areas.

The socialization is one of the many factors bringing back lots of repeat, local customers.

They get out to play at least four times a day; thats one reason a lot of

people come to us, Bloodworth says. And they get lots of individual atten-tion.

The facility also offers complete grooming services, including baths and nail clippings.

Though dogs are the main residents of the pet resort, Bloodworth says shes willing to board any animal and has watched cats, rabbits and guinea pigs, and even boarded eight falcons once that needed a place to stretch their wings during a trip to town.

The kennel is located on a 40-acre ranchette about 10 minutes from Steam-boat Springs and is accepting new pets for overnight boarding or daytime care.

Teresa Ristow

RED ROVER RESORT

BEST PET KENNEL

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In a place where winters turn the roads into ice rinks, a good towing company is essential. Mark Sloop saw that need and pounced on it, founding Rocky Mountain Towing in 2008.

His can-do/can-tow attitude echoed in his companys No job too small, no problem too big slogan has helped build his company to one with a reputation thats reliable, ethical and family-oriented. All that helped him cinch the top spot in the towing category in this years Best of the Boat contest.

Sloop started his business and family, including boys ages 1, 4, and 7 after moving to Steamboat from North Carolinas Appalachian State University with a degree in communications. His move was spurred by his love of the mountains, and he started working for Steamboat Powdercats shooting photos and videos as soon as he arrived.

The decision to start a towing company was a way to provide for his family. That family friendliness shows in his business, which goes so far as to provide custom extended cabs and crew cabs for large families when breakdowns occur. Offering quick, courteous service, hes received numerous awards and praise from customers for his work, en route to making Rocky Mountain a go-to service for the Colorado State Patrol, area police departments, insurance companies, motor clubs and more.

For Sloop, however, all this pales to the satisfaction he gets from helping people get their cars off the road. As long as Im number one to me, thats all that matters, he says.

Annie Martin

ROCKY MOUNTAIN

TOWING

BEST TOWING SERVICE

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Best ArchitectFirst: Joe Patrick RobbinsSecond: Brandt Vanderbosch, Vertical ArtsThird: Bill Rangitsch, Steamboat Architectural Associates

Best ElectricianFirst: Geoff Coon, Coon ElectricSecond: Jed Gibson, Central ElectricThird: Richard Schwanke, Aspen Electric

Best Flooring/Tile/Carpet StoreFirst: Carpets PlusSecond: The Carpet ShoppeThird: Affordable Flooring Warehouse

Best General Contractor/Home BuilderFirst: Soda Mountain ConstructionSecond: Fox Construction

Third: Rivertree Custom Builders

Best Home Supply StoreFirst: Steamboat Ace HardwareSecond: Alpine LumberThird: Steamboat Lumber

Best Interior DesignerFirst (Tied): Olivia Kimmeth, Olivias Home FurnishingsFirst (Tied): Valerie Stafford, Rumor DesignsSecond: Michele McCarthy, Vertical ArtsThird: Susie Wilkinson, Aesthetic Designworks

Best Landscaping ServiceFirst: Gecko Landscape & Garden CenterSecond: I DesignThird: Kinnikinnick Lawn & Garden Inc

Best Mortgage BrokerFirst: Kathryn Pedersen, Fidelity

MortgageSecond: Josh Kagan, Cornerstone LendingThird: Lynn Reiff, Wells Fargo

Best Nursery/Gardening SupplierFirst: Windermere Landscape & Garden CenterSecond: Gecko Landscape & Garden CenterThird: Steamboat Ace Hardware

Best PainterFirst: Kyle Lawton, Lawton PaintingSecond: Peter Sloop, SLOOP PaintingThird: Tom Barr, T Barr Painting

Best PlumberFirst: Phil Taber, Taber PlumbingSecond: Clayton Custer, Perfect Slope Plumbing and HeatingThird: Aaron Scarborough, Down Hill Plumbing

Best Real Estate AgentFirst: Matt Eidt, Colorado Group RealtySecond: Jon Wade, Steamboat Group at Colorado Group RealtyThird: Charlie Dresen, Steamboat Sothebys International Realty

Best Roofing CompanyFirst: Tin Man RoofingSecond: Revelation RoofingThird: High Point Roofing

Best Stone Supply CompanyFirst: Hales Landscape SupplySecond: Steamboat Stone SupplyThird: Caveman Stone

Best Title CompanyFirst: Land Title Guarantee CompanySecond: Heritage Title CompanyThird: Title Company of the Rockies

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HOME & GARDEN WINNERS

Everyone who lives in or visits Steamboat has a roof overhead, and many also have yards and gardens that come alive after winter releases its hold in spring. The people and busi-nesses serving this niche anchor our home and garden category, which runs the gamut from real estate and mortgage brokers to architects, plumbers, landscapers and more. What they all have in common is working beyond the call of duty to ensure we all have a home we can be proud of in Ski Town USA.

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While plastics might have been the future in The Graduate, for Windemere Landscape & Garden Center, winner of this years best nursery/gardening sup-plier, its perennials.

Those are probably our biggest seller, says owner Talina Teixeira, who purchased Routt County Landscaping in 1995, turned it into Windemere and moved to Steamboat full-time in 1998. Those and our annuals.

Teixeira says her stores success owes itself to its location, variety and selection. But she also credits an exceptional staff of eight that focuses on serving custom-ers needs. She enjoys her work because of her customers and staff, as well as a natural affi nity for working with plants of all shapes and sizes.

As for its variety, as well as a full selection of annuals and perennials, Windemere offers everything from patio

pots and hanging baskets to fertilizers, herbicides, grass and wildfl ower seeds, trees, shrubs, soil amendments and more. Complementing all this is an array of bark products, mulch, top soil, compost, garden decors, furnishings, fountains and everything else you might need for your lawn or garden. On the service side, it also offers custom garden design, instal-lation and delivery.

While maples and Colorado spruce top the tree list, Teixeira says they recently brought in a few new variet-ies of spruce as well, including Leaping Norway and Baby Blue Eyes. Other spe-cies of pine, such as Vanderwolf and her favorite, Bristle Cone, are also moving well. I like the Bristle Cone because it has a nice organic shape to it, she says. Its perfect for homes here.

With a weather-dependent season usually running from April through Octo-

ber, Windemeres season is shorter than that of year-round Steamboat businesses, but she makes the most of it from when she opens her doors until closing them for winter.

There are all kinds of things you can grow here, she says, pointing to the Botanic Park as shining example. Steam-boats a great place, from the weather to the community.

Eugene Buchanan

WINDEMEREBEST NURSERY/GARDENING SUPPLIER

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MATT EIDTBEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

Before moving to Steamboat, Matt Eidt of Colorado Group Realty was a 10-year profes-sional photographer who practiced photojournalism in South Africa, guided trips in Ecuadors Amazon and skied in Chile. All that and more has helped him navigate the jungle of local real estate.

With a bachelors degree in business administration from the University of Mississippi, Eidt knew he wanted to call

Steamboat home after a two-week visit in 2008. Ive seen a lot of fantastic communities, and I just fell in love with Steamboat, says Eidt, 32, who started with Colorado Group Reality in 2012. Ive never found a more beautiful, open and complete community.

Prioritizing service, its his youthful energy that sets him apart in the real estate crowd. Im excited about what I do, and I do things differently than many other brokers, he says. I have a tremendous amount of energy and new, fresh ideas. I dont tell people Im a Realtor; I say I move people to Steamboat.

Eidt brings a multi-media marketing mix to listing homes, from using his own professional photography

skills, which gives him more control, to hosting virtual property tours, social media campaigns and open houses. Using virtual tours, hes even sold several homes sight-unseen, requiring a high level of trust between broker and client. You cant just list some-thing on MLS and forget about it, he says. Every property is different, so I try to approach everything creatively, with no preconceptions.

Specializing in services for fi rst-time home buyers, Eidt says the market is heating up, especially for properties under $1 million. This year, he adds, hes closed on 20 transactions alone.

His success also stems from being involved in the commu-nity. He chairs the local Young

Professionals Network chapter and was involved in creating Yampa Valley Gives, which raised more than $400,000 for local charities through Colo-rado Gives Day.

He does all this while thoroughly enjoying the Steamboat lifestyle, where youre as apt to fi nd him snowboarding Mount Werner or mountain biking Emer-ald sometimes even while working. I love it here, and its extremely gratifying help-ing people fi nd a home here, he says. Where I grew up, there was no long-boarding to a meeting or rendezvousing with a client snowboarding. Its pretty unique to be able to do that all in such a great community.

Eugene Buchanan

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PROFESSIONAL WINNERS

Best AcupuncturistFirst: Frank Turano-Cutler, Healing Path AcupunctureSecond: Betsy Smith, Five ElementThird: Kelley McDaneld, Yampa Valley Acupuncture & Chinese Herbs

Best AttorneyFirst (Tied): Larry D. Combs, Steamboat Springs Criminal DefenseFirst (Tied): Jason Lacy, Steamboat Lawyers GroupSecond: Kris Hammond, Cantafio Hammond LawThird: Adam Mayo, Esq.

Best Bike MechanicFirst: Dusty Henning, Steamboat Ski & Bike KareSecond: Brock Webster, Orange PeelThird: Chris Johns, Wheels Bike Shop

Best Car SalespersonFirst: Stacey Rogers, Cook Chevrolet & SubaruSecond: Steve Dunklin, Cook Chevrolet & SubaruThird: Jorge Sanchez, Cook Chevrolet & Subaru

Best ChiropractorFirst: Dr. Tim Rinn, Rinn ChiropracticSecond: Dr. Von Wilson, Backsmith ChiropracticThird (Tied): Dr. Dave Liberman, Liberman WellnessThird (Tied): Dr. Russ Sanford, Sanford Chiropractic

Best DentistFirst: Dr. Sunny Owens, Sunshine DentistrySecond: Dr. Jeffrey Piaskowy, AvantGarde DentalThird: Dr. Gary Fresques, Steamboat Family Aesthetic Dentistry

Best DoctorFirst: Dr. David Niedermeier, Steamboat Medical GroupSecond: Dr. Lambert Orton, Yampa Valley Medical AssociatesThird (Tied): Dr. Phaedra Fegley, Steamboat Springs Family MedicineThird (Tied): Dr. Charlie Petersen, Yampa Valley Medical Associates

Best Eye DoctorFirst: Dr. Lewis Cutter, Mountain EyeworksSecond: Dr.Mark Helm, Helm Eye CenterThird: Dr. Jason Garey, Steamboat Vision Clinic

Best Fishing GuideFirst: Rob Burden, Steamboat FlyfisherSecond (Tied): Keith Hale, Steamboat FlyfisherSecond (Tied): Johnny Spillane, Steamboat FlyfisherThird: Steve Henderson, Henderson Fly Fishing

Best Fitness InstructorFirst: Rebecca Williams, Old Town Hot SpringsSecond: Brady Worster, Anytime

FitnessThird (Tied): Graham Muir, Manic TrainingThird (Tied): Mary Beth Arce, Old Town Hot Springs

Best Hair StylistFirst: Alicia Ellson, Brio SalonSecond: Brooke Engeseth, Hair on EarthThird: Kaitlyn Wetzel, Wildhorse Salon

Best Hunting GuideFirst: Lonny Vanatta, Vanatta OutfittersSecond: Shane Yeager, Colorado Premier OutfittingThird: David Schwanke, Dels Triangle 3 Ranch

Best Local ArtistFirst: Lance WhitnerSecond: Gregory BlockThird: Sandy Graves

Best Local PhotographerFirst: Abby Jensen PhotographySecond: David DietrichThird: Noah Wetzel-Lightpole

Best Massage TherapistFirst: Pam Peretz, Life Essentials Day SpaSecond: Erica Olson, Heartfire MassageThird: Ali Boehm, Kneading Hands

Best PediatricianFirst: Dr. Sheila Fountain, Pediatrics of Steamboat SpringsSecond: Dr. Steven Ross, Sleeping Bear Pediatrics

Third: Dr. Dana Fitzgerald, Pediatrics of Steamboat Springs

Best Personal TrainerFirst: Rebecca Williams, Old Town Hot SpringsSecond: Brady Worster, Anytime FitnessThird: Mary Beth Arce, Old Town Hot Springs

Best School Teacher (K-12)First: Clint Koehler, Steamboat Springs High SchoolSecond: Tracy Bye, Steamboat Springs Middle SchoolThird: Deirdre Boyde, Steamboat Springs High School

Best Ski/Snowboard InstructorFirst: Bridget RossSecond: Chip ShevlinThird: Rob Lewis

Best Ski/Snowboard PatrollerFirst: Kyle LawtonSecond: John Pink FloydThird: Brooks Bingman

Best Surgeon First: Dr. Eric Verploeg, Orthopaedics of Steamboat SpringsSecond: Dr. Alex Meininger, Steamboat Orthopaedic AssociatesThird: Dr. Andreas Saurbray, Orthopaedics of Steamboat Springs

PROFESSIONAL

Our professionals category is where we put the people behind towns great businesses. These are the bike tuners, the fly-fishing guides, the trainers and more who put their best foot forward to make sure you do the same. While everyone in this list-ing deserves recognition, the top three in each category, and especially those occupying the catbird seat, are the professionals worthy of extra praise.

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Rebecca Williams knows what its like to juggle work, time with family and time for herself, and the working mom with two preschool-age kids uses that experi-ence to help clients discover their own work-life balance.

I mostly train women, she says. Many of them are moms who are work-ing a lot, and I show them how they can incorporate exercise into their life.

Williams is a personal trainer and fit-ness instructor at Old Town Hot Springs, and in this years voting, she topped both categories Best Fitness Instructor and Best Personal Trainer.

I love trying to help people make exercise and fitness an enjoyable and regular part of their daily routine, she says. I tell people to put exercise on their schedule as a non-negotiable item, like a doctors appointment or busi-ness meeting. Work the rest of your day around it, and make it happen.

The former high school business teacher became a fitness instructor two years ago and, three months later, earned her personal trainer certification. She says the two roles work hand in hand.

As a personal trainer, I get my clients to a point where they can work out safely and effectively on their own and gradually get them to begin taking classes if its a good fit, she says.

She also loves the fact that shes now working with a very dedicated group of students. Whats cool is Im teaching groups who are highly motivated, Wil-liams says. They like to get their butts kicked. They love to be sore.

To produce the fitness goals her cli-ents are seeking, she uses the HIIT (high intensity interval training) model as a basis for a lot of her classes and personal training sessions.

It drives some serious results in muscular strength, endurance and weight loss, she says. Its how I see the most success for my clients and myself.

Lisa Schlichtman

REBECCA WILLIAMS

BEST PERSONAL TRAINER

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STACEY ROGERSBEST CAR SALESPERSON

Best of the Boats top automotive salesman of 2015, Stacey Rogers, fi rst came to Steamboat Springs from Illinois in 1975 driving a 1969 Chevy Nova that wasnt quite prepared for the Yampa Val-ley climate.

We moved out here in a Nova with bald tires pulling a U-Haul that was bigger than the car in February in a snowstorm, Rogers says. We came down Rabbit Ears Pass sideways and fi nally got to town, where we got stuck in a parking lot.

Little did Rogers know that, through his employment at Cook Chevrolet & Subaru, the Chevy badge would become a lasting part of his professional life.

Rogers and a partner owned Steam-boat Liquors on South Lincoln Avenue for 18 years (remember that drive-up window they had?). After they sold the business, Staceys wife, Cindy, quickly grew weary of her hubby hanging around the house.

Noticing an ad in the paper for a car salesman at the old Sam Taylor Auto Center on U.S. Highway 40 west of town (where NAPA Auto Parts is today), Cindy urged Stacey to apply. The interview went well.

Sam Taylor: Do you know anything about selling cars?

Rogers: Nope.Sam Taylor: Youre hired.It turned out Taylor preferred green-

horns, because they didnt have any preconceived notions about how the busi-ness works. Of course, in the mid 1980s, the car business was a little different than it is now. At least in Steamboat it was.

It wouldnt fl y now, but I remember years ago Sam and I took a side of beef as part of the trade-in on a new truck, Rogers says. Sam looked at me, and I says, Ill split with you.

Rogers has a reputation as one of the mellowest sales people in Steamboat. Maybe thats why he does so well.

Ill sit and BS with people for half an hour without mentioning selling them a car, he says. Ive met a lot of people over the years, and 95 percent of its fun. Im committed to taking care of people after the sale. I think thats one of my strong suits.

The Rogers have two adult daughters. Ashley, 33, is the sales manager and partner at KPMG, an auditing fi rm in Manhattan. Melissa, 30, is an artist with a growing national reputation, living in Asheville, North Carolina.

Tom Ross

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Some people might say bicycle me-chanic Dusty Henning, of Steamboat Ski & Bike Kare, has unusual tastes in his personal bicycles, but when it comes to other peoples rides, hes meticulous.

Hennings drive for perfection, instilled in him by his seniors at Ski & Bike Kare, goes a long way to explain-ing his recognition as this years top bike mechanic in town.

If something touches my rack, it doesnt come off my rack until its right, Henning says. First and foremost is the safety of our customers. We put our names on every bike we work on, and I pride myself in not having the bikes I work on come back. The performance in our shop refl ects our leadership.

Henning says receiving the award for Best of the Boat comes as a surprise.

Theres so many good bike mechan-ics in this town, I wouldnt think Id get many votes, he says.

Hennings approach to cycling in his

two-wheeled life away from the shop is a fascinating one. He grew up in Steam-boat playing hockey and fi rst worked at Ski & Bike Kare at the age of 14. His passion was always building his own BMX bikes.

When I fi rst got into it, it was just BMX; its all I cared about, he says. I built a bike out of (Ski & Bike Kare owner) Harry Martins junk drawer. I dont remember buying a bike.

And Henning still has an affi nity for well-used cycles.

If theres an old bike that looks like it needs to be thrown away, thats the bike I like to work on, he says. I enjoy the bikes no one wants to touch.

Times change though, and more than the dirt-jumper he made out of old parts and the fi xed-gear bike he customized, his current love is the classic Schwinn Le Tour road bike he inherited from his late grandfather, Kurt Schmidt.

Despite his passion for bicycles,

hockey is probably a bigger part of Hen-nings life. Hes about to begin his ninth season as a professional hockey player, playing defense for the Huron, Michigan, Prowlers. Its a new team and a new coaching staff for Henning. Last winter, he won a Federal Hockey League cham-pionship with the Wolves of Watertown, New York.

If hes good at balancing on wheels and balancing those of the bikes he tunes, hes even better on his skate blades.

Tom Ross

DUSTY HENNINGBEST BIKE MECHANIC

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NROB BURDENBEST FISHING GUIDE

No day is the same for local fly-fishing guide Rob Burden.

Moving to Steamboat in 2007, Burden arrived in town as a competitive mogul skier on the U.S. Development Freestyle Team. But in the off-season, he pursued his other passion fly-fishing.

Burdens father taught him how to fly-f

Best of the Boat 2015

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