Boulder County Gold 2008

If you suaer from contacts, glasses and blurry TV screens, Dr. Craig Beyer wants to help you start this footballseason by throwing them all away. Colorado’s most experienced LASIK surgeon will give you a free Flat PanelHDTV if you schedule your all-laser LASIK at Beyer Laser Center before October 31, 2008.

• Dr. Beyer is the only LASIK surgeon in Northern Colorado with the expertise and experience to offer a20/20 Money Back Guarantee* on all-laser LASIK.

• Beyer Laser Center is the only LASIK center in Colorado to be an official CU partner.

• Schedule your all-laser LASIK before October 31, 2008 and you can look forward to brand new vision and abrand new Flat Panel HDTV.

Get High Definition Vision and a Free High Definition TV.Schedule Your LASIK Evaluaòn now so You Can Have Your High Def LASIK by October 31, 2008 and Get a FREE HDTV too!

You could be seeing so clearlyyou will think you’re on the -eld.

FREE HD TV with LASIK303-499-2020

www.bouldereyes.com

• Blade-Free iLASIK technology• Allegreô Wave Eye-Q Laser forimproved night vision

• No-Interest Financing Opònsfor 2 years

• 20/20 Vision or it’s FREE*

Get a strong gripon your remote

this football season

Beyer Laser Center is an o_cial partner of CU Athle`cs

*Terms and condiòns apply. Oaer can not be combined with any otheroaers. Oaer apply’s to bilateral procedure’s only.

If you suaer from contacts, glasses and blurry TV screens, Dr. Craig Beyer wants to help you start this footballseason by throwing them all away. Colorado’s most experienced LASIK surgeon will give you a free Flat PanelHDTV if you schedule your all-laser LASIK at Beyer Laser Center before October 31, 2008.



• Schedule your all-laser LASIK before October 31, 2008 and you can look forward to brand new vision and abrand new Flat Panel HDTV.

Get High Definition Vision and a Free High Definition TV.Schedule Your LASIK Evaluaòn now so You Can Have Your High Def LASIK by October 31, 2008 and Get a FREE HDTV too!



www.bouldereyes.com

• Blade-Free iLASIK technology• Allegreô Wave Eye-Q Laser forimproved night vision

• No-Interest Financing Opònsfor 2 years




Beyer Laser Center is an o_cial partner of CU Athle`cs

*Terms and condiòns apply. Oaer can not be combined with any otheroaers. Oaer apply’s to bilateral procedure’s only.

2008

Boulder County

GOLDPEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS

5995 Arapahoe, Boulder, CO • 303.443.0114 • www.fl atironssubaru.com

STRAIGHT ANSWERS • KNOWLEDGEABLE SALESPEOPLE • NEVER ANY PRESSURE

1Top Safety Pick includes 2008 Tribeca. 2Award claim based on cumulative awards won since 2002 from Car and Driver (5 Best Trucks), Edmunds.com (Editors’Most Wanted) and R.L. Polk & Co. (Polk Automotive Loyalty Awards). 3Government frontal and side crash tests are part of the National Highway Traffi c Safety Administration (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program. See safercar.cgov for more detail. Subaru Tribeca, Forester, Legacy and Outback are registered trademarks. All payments + tax,tag and license plus handling. 10k per year W.A.C. Price valid on in stock units only W.A.C. Photos for illustration only. Prices valid through end of day 9/30/08.

27MPGHWY

(MODEL 8JA) SK98109

$0 Security Deposit

$1999 Total Due at Lease Signing

PER MONTH LEASE/24 MONTHS$99

• All-Wheel Drive standard• 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS• 6 Standard Air Bags

NO BRAINER!

0%Availableon all ‘08 Subarus

(MODEL 9AC) SK#98305

®

$0 Security Deposit

First Months Payment Due at Lease Signing

PER MONTH LEASE/ 24 MONTHS$199

• 5-Star highest government crash test rating3

• All-Wheel Drive standard

• Power moonroof• 16” aluminum wheels

$22,183 MSRP-2284 Flatirons Discount

IGHT ANSWERS KNOWLEDGEAB

$19,899

Designer & Editor: Aubrey Laurence Writers: L.L. Charles, Thom Collins, Judy Finman, Jeanine Fritz, Julie Kailus, Lulu Tupper

Photographer: Jonathan Castner Data Entry & Verification: Bolder Staffing Research Contributor: Joan Beckett

The 2008 Boulder County Gold People’s Choice Awardsresults are in! Check out the following pages and you’ll uncoverthe best of the best in Boulder County – the people, places andthings that make this county great.

This year’s winners and runners up are a fine bunch. Some arerepeat winners and some are brand new winners. With so manywonderful choices in our area, the competition was tough.

Your votes have been tallied and, after weeding out thecheaters, the results follow.

We thank everyone who took the time to vote. Thousands oflocals told us why Boulder County is such a great place to live,shop, eat, work and play.

Turn the page to read about the winners!

Boulder County Gold is a marketing feature of your Camera. For advertising information, call your consultant or 303.473.1400. Copyright 2008. Look upBoulder County Gold winners throughout the year at DailyCamera.com. To subscribe to your Daily Camera, call 303.444.3444 or visit DailyCamera.com.

4-17 EATS, DRINKS & ENTERTAINMENT

18-35 SERVICES, FACES & PLACES

36-49 SHOPPER’S PARADISE

50 LIST OF WINNERS & RUNNERS UP

2008

Boulder County

GOLDPEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS

= First Place Winner

= Runner Up

SEPTEMBER 2008 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 3C A M E R A

BEST AMERICAN RESTAURANT The Kitchen1039 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.544.5973, www.thekitchencafe.comThe Kitchen quickly earned a local and national reputation after it opened in downtown Boulderin 2004. Executive chef and co-owner Hugo Matheson continues to draw raves for The Kitchen’sfresh and seasonal menu, which typically features organic or natural ingredients, often from localfarmers and ranchers. At The Kitchen, “green” refers to the lovely assortment of salads served atlunch and dinner. It also refers to the restaurant’s eco-friendly approach to doing business,something Boulder patrons appreciate. The Kitchen uses wind-generated electricity and most ofits discardable products are 100-percent biodegradable. The restaurant offers two spaces for dining– an intimate lounge upstairs and the main quarters downstairs. In the cellar, The Kitchen housesits impressive list of wine and beer, including 750 labels of fine wine. Its experienced staff is alwaysready and able to suggest the perfect wine to accompany diners’ fare.

Turley s2805 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.442.2800, www.turleysboulder.com

BEST ASIAN RESTAURANT Chey Thuy2655 28th St., Boulder, 303.442.1700, www.chezthuy.comIf you enjoy Asian cuisine, there’s something on the menu for you at Chez Thuy. How can therenot be? The menu at the 15-year-old Boulder eatery boasts roughly 150 items. Many aretraditional Vietnamese dishes, like curried stews or lettuce wraps. The menu is accented withChinese and Thai offerings, too, including Sesame Chicken, Pad Thai and the recently addedgreen curry dishes. But rather than rely solely on tradition, owner Thuy Le likes coming up withher own authentic recipes and trying them out on hungry customers, as well. One of the busyrestaurant’s most-popular requests is Le’s Spicy Beef and Tomato dish. According to managerMichael Reeves, Thuy Le’s son, customer’s appreciate the fast service at Chez Thuy, as well. Andif there’s something you don’t see on the menu, ask for it. “We recently added a Kung Pao to ourmenu because we get so many request for it,” Reeves says. Chances are, though, you’ll find justwhat you’re looking for and more when you nestle into your seat in Chez Thuy’s dining room.“We have such a huge menu, it can definitely suit anybody,” Reeves says.

Moongate Asian Bistro1626 Pearl St., Boulder, 720.406.8888; 199 W. South Boulder Road, Lafayette, 720.890.0868www.moongateasia.com

EATS, DRINKS & ENTERTAINMENTThanksFormakingus thebest!

2 5 4 0 A r a p a h o e A v e . ( N e x t t o S a f e w a y )3 0 3 . 4 4 4 . 8 5 0 0 | w w w . b o u l d e r b o t t l e s . c o m

Thank youBoulder

for voting for us!It had been a Great First Year in business

- Open Sundays 10am to 8pm -

4 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2008C A M E R A

BEST BAR West End Tavern926 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.3535, www.thewestendtavern.comHand-crafted beer and a food menu filled with fresh spins on oldfavorites is one thing. At Boulder’s West End Tavern they take thingseven further and offer hand-crafted cocktails. Take their twist on apopular drink, the mojito. At the West End, it’s a French mojito, madewith vodka, champagne, muddled strawberries and mint. “A year anda half ago we decided to make our bar more like our kitchen and havefresh ingredients and really have chefs behind the bar,” says West Endgeneral manager Mike Lawinski. “People can come in here and talk toa bartender and hear a whole history about Tequila. The education ofour staff is probably higher than a good majority of places.” The WestEnd offers their own take on traditional tavern fare, too, like friedchicken and biscuits served over Cajun gumbo, or the Ahi tuna “BLT.”If you’re a burger guy or gal, the bar features a special kind each day ofthe week. And the West End has created a large array of salads of late,in order to please those looking for lighter fare. For atmosphere, it’shard to beat the West End’s rooftop, and its view of the Flatirons. Itgoes right along with the top-shelf service. “Sometimes it takes a littlebit of extra love to make a French mojito than it does a vodka tonic,”Lawinski says. “But the extra time and effort is definitely worth it.”

(TIE)

Mountain Sun1535 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.546.0886, www.mountainsunpub.com

Conor O Neill s1922 13th St., Boulder, 303.449.1922, www.conoroneills.com

BEST BAKERY Breadworks Caf2644 Broadway, Boulder, 303.444.5667Talk about consistency. Through holidays, renovations and even consecutive massive snowstorms that shut down mostof Boulder during the winter of 2006 to 2007, Breadworks Café has not closed its doors since it first opened them morethan 13 years ago. This winter, the bakery will pass the 5,000-day mark of consecutive days being open for business,come snow or shine. That same kind of commitment goes into the bread, baked goods and café fare Breadworks makesfor its loyal customers. With prices for ingredients on the rise, Breadworks owner Larry Domnitz says the locally ownedand operated bakery and kitchen hasn’t budged from its commitment to use 100-percent organic stone ground flour inits breads, and real butter in its croissants and scones. “People feel confident when they come in here that we’re bakingand cooking with high-quality ingredients,” Domnitz says. “We’ll never take a short cut. If we don’t feel good aboutmaking it and serving it, we won’t do it.” What Breadworks serves includes a tempting variety of excellent artisan breads,a decadent assortment of cookies and brownies, plus a daily offering of coffee, sandwiches, soups, salads and even pizzas.And at Breadworks, you can rest assured the food is made on-site daily. That means 365 days a year.

Spruce Confections767 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.449.6773; 4684 Broadway, Boulder, 303.449.5819

BEST DELI Cafe Food2079 30th St., Boulder, 303.443.9239www.cafefood.qwestoffice.net/701.htmlCafé Food has been a mainstay in Boulder since the ’70s, accordingto Dennis Oviatt, who’s owned the café for almost 15 years. “We’vegot some hardcore fans ... I just talked to a guy today who’s beencoming in for over 20 years. And that’s very, very common.” Sure,the little café tucked into a strip mall off 30th might be easy to miss,but once you’ve had the roasted turkey sandwich with choppedpepper, pickle and onion astride it, or one of their homemadesoups, you won’t forget where to go for lunch. “We offer good valueand we make all our own stuff: we roast our own turkey, make allof our own salad dressings, bake all of our own bread.” The café isopen 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Jimmy & Drew s Delicatessen2855 28th St., Boulder, 303.447.3354

florists, greenhouses & fine stationery2851 Valmont • 303-442-6663Mon-Fri 8-6, Sat 8-5, Sun 10-5

www.sturtzandcopeland.com

Thank you foryour votes!

since 1929

Boulder’sBest Florist &Boulder’s BestGarden Center

For

ally

our

flowe

r&

gard

enin

gne

eds.


BEST BARBECUE KT s Barbecue2675 13th St., Boulder, 303.442.37177464 Arapahoe Road, Boulder, 303.786.7608799 Highway 287, Broomfield, 303.410.7333www.ktsbbq.comThe folks at KT’s understand the key to great barbecue: Cook it slow, on low, with lots of love.Kirk and Tricia (the K and the T) Jamison have been spreading the gospel of great barbecue inBoulder County since 1991. And Boulder County readers have once again said a big “AMEN,”voting KT’s their favorite stop for melt-in-your-mouth, loosen-your-belt, down-homegoodness. KT’s specializes in Memphis- and Texas-styled barbecue. That means Hickory-smoked pork shoulder, dry-rubbed ribs, brisket and hot links. They offer three kinds of sauce– tangy, sweet and burn-the-demons hot – in order to soak your sandwich. The sides are simpleand scrumptious – mashed potatoes, slaw and spiced beans. But what’s great barbecue withoutgood friends? KT’s has made friends with its loyal patrons through the years. In fact, four of itsmenu staples – Mike’s, Joe’s and Amy’s combo basket, and the June Bowl – are named afterlongtime customers. We’ll see you in line at KT’s.

Daddy Bruce s Bar-B-Que2000 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.449.8890

BEST BURRITO

Illegal Pete s1320 College Ave., Boulder, 303.444.30551447 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.440.3955www.illegalpetes.comPeople like Illegal Pete’s for the food, and also for theatmosphere, says Gabe Smith, manager of the popularburrito stop on Pearl Street. “It’s laid back,” Smith says.“It’s very community oriented. We play good music andeveryone working here gets to dress how they like andbe themselves.” The laid-back vibe lasts well into thenight, as each of Illegal Pete’s restaurants stay open until2:30 a.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Thestaff at Illegal Pete’s puts together one heckuva burrito,too. Whether you’re hungering for a beef, chicken, fishor vegetarian burrito, not to mention an assortment oftacos, taquitos and quesadillas, you’ll walk away fromthe counter with a two-fisted meal. But if there’s onething customers tell Smith that makes Illegal Pete’sstuffed-to-the-limits burritos stand out from itscompetitors, it’s the fact that Illegal Pete’s mixes theiringredients before the final wrap and hand-off. “That’sa big one, there,” Smith says.

Chipotle919 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.544.93861650 28th St., Boulder, 720.406.0500375 S. McCaslin Blvd., Louisville, 720.890.0670100 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont, 303.651.67631708 Main St., Longmont, 303.485.6369www.chipotle.com

One of Boulder’s BestRestaurants for 14 Years

2319 Arapahoe Ave • 303.444.8758w w w . d o l a n s r e s t a u r a n t . c o m

CAMERA REVIEW 3 1/2 STARS FOOD, SERVICE, AMBIANCE

HAPPY HOUR “BOULDER’S BEST DEAL”~ Private Dining No Room Charge ~

OUR SERVICES:

Carpet

Upholstery

Oriental Rugs

Oriental RugPads

Carpet Repairsand

Restretching

WaterRestoration

Hardwood FloorRefinishing

and Recoating

Leather

Tile and Grout

THANK YOU BoulderCounty for voting us best!We appreciate your continued loyalty and support.

1212 Commerce Ct., Lafayette

303.666.8888www.nesheims.com


BEST COFFEEHOUSE Vic s2680 Broadway, Boulder, 303.440.82093305 30th St., Boulder, 303.440.29181800 Broadway, Boulder, 303.938.6886801 Main St., Louisville, 303.666.1402700 Tenacity, Suite 101, Prospect New Town, Longmont, 303.485.6791Since 1992, Vic’s has been slinging the bean juice to locals. Withhighly trained baristas, fine pastries from local bakeries and ageneral atmosphere of fatal coolness, Vic’s is practically aninstitution. Die-hard fans will tell you the coffee drinks areconsistent and hefty in flavor. And by “hefty,” we mean strong.Herculean, even. Vic’s has all the extras – WIFI, sandwiches fromBreadworks, a solid selection of newspapers – but it’s theessentials, like a great staff and excellent espresso, that keep thecoffee junkies coming back.

StarbucksVisit www.starbucks.com for locations.

BEST HAPPY HOUR AND BEST OUTDOORDINING AND BEST APPETIZERS

Mediterranean Restaurant (The Med)1002 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.444.5335, www.themedboulder.comIf you’re a local, you call it The Med. Capital T, capital M. A mainstay of exoticfoods, country-glamour décor and solid happy hour specials, The Med is The Placeto take family from out of town, buddies after work and your special lady friend ona date. Manager Rob Kukura is happy to explain why: “The uniqueness of the tapas,the variety, the quality and the affordability of it all are the biggest reason why ourhappy hour is so good.” Try something from the wood-fired oven; one of the threetypes of hummus; chicken, shrimp or lamb skewers with tzatziki sauce; or tunatartar – you’re not getting soggy bar fare here, folks. Sip on a white or red sangria bythe fountain on the gorgeous patio. “Owner Peggy Romano puts her heart and soulinto that patio every summer ... there’s really no other space like that in town, whereit’s secluded but open and airy,” says Kukura. “It’s very much like dining in Italy,Spain or France. You get all those feelings out there, all in one place.”

FOR BEST HAPPY HOUR: Boulder Caf1247 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.4884

FOR BEST OUTDOOR DINING: Chautauqua Dining Hall900 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.440.3776, http://www.dininghall.net/menus.php

FOR BEST APPETIZERS: Aji Restaurant1601 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.442.3464, www.ajirestaurant.com

BEST CATERER A Spice of Life5541 Central Ave., Boulder, 303.443.40495706 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.444.3452www.aspiceoflife.comYou know that old, out-dated, seldom-used mantra in the serviceindustry? The one about how the customer is always right? Turnsout, it’s still alive and well at A Spice of Life catering in Boulder.“Our sales staff and service staff is very hospitality driven,” says ASpice of Life Events Center Manager Juls Gunderson. “Our mainmission is to take care of the client and make sure the client iscompletely well cared for.” A Spice of Life has been taking care oflocals for 21 years. They can do it all: hot meals or cold meals,sandwich delivery or full-service, multiple-course gourmet dinners.They can serve you at your home, in the park, your office or at theirown banquet facility. While meeting customers’ needs are the focusfor the folks at A Spice of Life, they don’t take themselves tooseriously. “We definitely like to have fun,” Gunderson says. Thatmakes for a happy work-force, and happy clients. “The company isgreat to work for,” Gunderson says. “It really is a big family, andthat includes clients as well as co-workers.”

Dish Gourmet1918 Pearl St., Boulder, 720.565.5933www.dishgourmet.com

BEST HIBACHI CUISINE Ai Sushi & Steak1685 29th St., Unit 1268, Boulder, 303.440.9600, www.aisushi.comPart of the secret behind Ai Sushi and Steak’s awesomeness is the convergence of food and fun. The family-ownedrestaurant has fresh fish flown in daily, instead of relying on frozen fare – so Ai’s sushi is top-notch. Have yourself afirecracker roll or a sizzling rib eye, but forget sitting glumly at the table while waiting for your plate – Ai chefs prepeverything in front of you with gleeful acrobatics while you sink into the warm, modern style of the decor. “We focuson making sure customers [and staff ] all have a good experience,” says Roslyn Sakaguchi of Ai Sushi.

Benihana515 Zang St., #A, Broomfield, 303.410.0482, www.benihana.com


BEST LATE-NIGHT RESTAURANT Cosmo s Pizza1325 Broadway St., Boulder, 303.447.1133; 659 30th St., Boulder, 303.447.3278www.cosmospizza.comLet’s face it, college students aren’t the only ones guilty of a late-night nosh. And when themunchies take over after dark, Cosmo’s Pizza serves up some piping-hot satisfaction. In additionto classic and specialty pies like the ham and pineapple-topped Hawaiian and the olive oil andgarlic-drizzled White Pizza, Cosmo’s makes tasty calzones, salads and some deliciously carb-loadedbreadsticks with dipping sauces like spicy ranch. It doesn’t matter when those nighttime cravingshit, either, because owner Ryan Shorter keeps his house of ’za – now in two convenient locations– open until 2:30 a.m. every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas.

International House of Pancakes (IHOP)1675 28th St., Boulder, 303.444.2115, www.ihop.com

BEST INDIAN RESTAURANT Taj Mahal III1075 S. Boulder Road, Suite 145, Louisville, 303.926.0999, www.tajmahal3.comThere are a number of reasons why so many people love this authentic Indian spot: rich red andgold interior embellishments with a cozy fireplace and soothing waterfall; fresh ingredients andbold spices expertly prepared by chef Hira, who has spent a decade at Taj Mahal perfectinghigh-quality Indian dishes; and dedicated, friendly waiters who are happy to help customizedishes to suite individual taste buds, from mild to fire-hot. This establishment enjoys a thrivingbusiness due in part to regulars who the staff have come to know intimately, says longtimewaiter Jamyang Dshering. Repeat customers count on the consistently delicious chicken tikkamasala, cooked Tandoori-style with a thick sauce, and classic saag paneer, spinach in rich creamsauce. All the senses are engaged – and delighted – at this Louisville mainstay.

Tandoori Grill619 South Broadway, Boulder, 303.543.7339, www.tandoorigrillboulder.com

Boulder for supportthroughout the years!

2550 Arapahoe, Boulder, CO 80301(303) 444-7502


BEST SUSHI Hapa Sushi1117 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.473.4730; 1220 Pennsylvania Ave., Boulder, 303.447.9883; www.hapasushi.comIt’s one thing to be The Best, and another to stay The Best. Last year’s winner, Hapa Sushi, returns again this yearwith top honors. What’s behind the success? “It’s all about consistency,” says owner Mark Van Grack. “Ourcustomers know they can always get great food and service, whenever they come in.” The New-York-meets-Tokyoatmosphere is hip and comfortable, but never upstages the tasty masterpieces created by Hapa’s passionate sushichefs. Fresh fish arrives daily direct from Hawaii and is turned into sushi rolls, hand-crafted Nigiri, Hapa Bowls andmore. There’s a good selection of vegetarian rolls on the menu, and beef fans will love the Kobe Ribeye, served upwith garlic smashed potatoes, shiitake mushrooms and spinach. “We’re grateful for all our fans voting us the BestSushi restaurant again for 2008,” Van Grack says.

Sushi Zanmai1221 Spruce St., Boulder, 303.440.0733, www.sushizanmai.com

BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANTJax Fish House

928 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.1811, www.jaxfishhouseboulder.comTired of the same-old Tuna Tartare? Go to Jax Fish House for a sea ofchange. Try the Togarashi Spiced Wild Alaskan Salmon, withlemongrass noodle stir fry, the down-home Mississippi Catfish withskillet cornbread and collard greens, or the Seared Jumbo Sea Scallopswith polenta. Rising shipping costs and restrictive fishing have madeit harder to find great seafood on the menu in land-locked Colorado,but general manager Aaron Derr says you’ll always find well priced,exciting selections at Jax. “Our sushi-grade Tombo is excellent, as isthe Kajiki or blue marlin that we are getting a lot of requests for. Andwe always feature five or six types of oysters every night.” BoulderCounty voters say, when you want the best seafood, chart your coursefor Jax Fish House.

Dolan s Restaurant2319 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.444.8758

2525 ARAPAHOE • In The Village • Boulder • mcguckin.com • (303) 443-1822

Locally Owned and Operated by thesame Boulder Family since 1955!

Thank you for your continued loyaltyand for voting us

BESTHARDWARESTOREand RUNNER UP for

Best Garden Center,Best Housewares &

Kitchen Goods Store andBest Locally Owned Store

THANK YOU for Voting UsBoulder’s BEST

INTERIOR DESIGNSERVICES/STUDIO!

2460 CANYON • (303) 449-3779designcntr.com

Just northwest of McGuckin HardwareIn The Village • Boulder, Colorado

Monday - Thursday 8-6, Friday 8-5,Saturday 9-5, Closed Sunday

m-f 7:30-8, sat 8-6, sun 9-6


BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT AND BEST LAFAYETTE/LOUISVILLE/SUPERIOR/ERIE RESTAURANT

Efrain s Mexican101 E. Cleveland St., Lafayette, 303.666.7544Efrain’s II: 1630 N. 63rd St., Boulder, 303.440.4045Efrain’s III: 451 S. Pratt Pkwy., Longmont, 720.494.0777Around Boulder, Efrain’s is about the closest you’ll get to eating in an authentic Mexican kitchen. Atthe original Lafayette location, the distinct old-house ambiance and family-run kitchen, not tomention great prices, have kept this traditional establishment going for more than 18 years. “Mymom is the best cook I know,” says owner George Gomez, who attributes much of Efrain’s success torecipes passed down through generations. Repeat diners crave super-fresh fajitas and chickenchimichangas, but “we sell it all,” says Gomez. Made-from-scratch margaritas are another staple atEfrain’s, this year a two-category Boulder County Gold winner. Gomez and his five brothers andsisters, the eldest of which started the namesake restaurant, don’t believe in big buckets of the classicMexican mixer. “Customers tell me they like to see what Tequila we put in our drinks, so we makethem all right here before their eyes,” says Gomez.

FOR BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT:

Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant1101 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.444.3690, www.riograndemexican.com

FOR BEST BEST LAFAYETTE/LOUISVILLE/SUPERIOR/ERIE RESTAURANT:

The Huckleberry Restaurant, Bakery and Tea Room700 Main St., Louisville, 303.666.8020, www.thehuckleberry.com

BEST NEW RESTAURANTCantina Laredo

1680 29th St., Boulder, 303.444.2260www.cantinalaredo.comIt’s fitting that this year’s fresh-faced Best New Restaurant is allabout ... fresh! “We make everything fresh at Cantina Laredo,”says kitchen manager Paul Fortunato, “... fresh lemon juice,fresh limes in our margaritas, fresh salsas made daily; we evenmake the guacamole right at your table.” The upscale-but-casual atmosphere is just right for a relaxing dinner after workor getting together with friends to celebrate a special occasion(you’ll find more than 100 types of tequila to choose from).Menu favorites include the Fiesta Grill, CamaronesEscondidos (tender chicken breast stuffed with shrimp) and aselection of entrée salads. Don’t forget to save room for theMexican Brownie, served in a hot skillet with Mexican brandybutter and a scoop of ice cream.

Radda Trattoria1265 Alpine Ave., Boulder, 303.442.6100www.raddatrattoria.com

BEST ICE CREAM / FROZEN YOGURTGlacier Home Made Ice Cream & Gelato

3133 28th St., Boulder, 303.440.6542; 4760 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.499.4760www.glacierhomemadeicecream.com“What makes us different from every other ice cream shop is that we make everythingfrom scratch,” explains Victor Alcantar, the production manager. “We only make aboutsix to seven gallons at a time and it’s better quality than the mass-produced stuff.” Whilethe shops have regular favorites they keep on hand consistently, before press time,Glacier was rockin’ the guava sherbet. But by the time this is in your hands, the seasonalspecial will probably be peach ice cream. “We do pumpkin ice cream in November,peppermint stick ice cream for the winter ... Our customers have really, really goodtaste, we have such good restaurants here, they know what’s good.”

Ben & Jerry s1203 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.5725, www.benjerry.com


BEST VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT

Sunflower Organic Dining1701 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.440.0220, www.sunflowerboulder.com“We have a good reputation, since the people who come here are vegetarian andnon-vegetarian,” says owner and executive chef Jef Forsberg. “We’re an organicrestaurant; we have organic meats and chicken, for example. People love usbecause everybody can eat here and have what they want. Not all vegetarianshang out only with vegetarians. Everyone can enjoy our organic food.Vegetarians, vegans, people who want gluten-free or have other restrictions arewelcome here. It’s quality food, on Pearl Street, with a nice atmosphere. And welove what we do.” The jazz brunch on Sunday is laid back and casual, with alittle musical group, The Aardvark Eater. “We have a big, pretty room and lotsof great food,” Forsberg says. “We’ve been told by people from all over that ourhuevos rancheros are the best.” Sunflower’s eggs Provencale and banana nutbread French toast are big hits, too.

Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant2010 16th St., Boulder, 303.442.1485, www.leafvegetarianrestaurant.com

BEST TAKE-OUT FOODJimmy & Drew s

Delicatessen2855 28th St., Boulder, 303.447.3354“I always look for a little corner place,”Drew Marx says, describing a favoriterestaurant, “with a classic menu andcomfortable atmosphere. That’s whatwe’ve created at Jimmy & Drew’sDelicatessen.” The restaurant is thecreation of Marx and Jimmy Eggers,“local boys” who take extra pride in whatthey serve. From the best ingredients, tosmoking their own salmon, to spendinghours on a brisket, the pair makes sureeverything is simply the best. Esquiremagazine called Jimmy’s Favorite one ofthe “Best Sandwiches in America.” Take-out is big at Jimmy & Drew’s, and justabout anything on the menu can beordered to go. “A lot of people arecoming in for brunch items, stocking upfor the weekend,” Marx says. In a hurry?Call ahead and your order will bewaiting for you.

Noodles & Co.2850 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.247.99782770 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.55331245 Alpine, Boulder, 303.440.43401100 W. Dillon Road, Louisville, 303.665.6226www.noodles.com


BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT AND BEST PLACE FOR AROMANTIC DINNER

Carelli s of Boulder Ristorante Italiano645 30th St., Boulder, 303.938.9300, www.carellis.comFew restaurants go to the extremes that owner/operator Greg Carelli has to make his Italianhideout on par with some of the country’s finest dining establishments. His passion for highdesign, as well as consistently savory dishes, is undeniable. Spago’s California-cool is Carelli’sultimate inspiration. Each year there’s something new that elevates this rich and romantic spot– surprisingly tucked into a not-so-pretty strip mall – to stardom. Most recently, Carelli hasadded an upscale lounge and full bar; 5-foot custom LED mood-lighting pendant; and plushoutdoor firepit. “I’m not afraid to spend the money,” says Carelli about his constantly evolving17-year-old restaurant. “It all adds to the theater of dining here.” In the center of therestaurant’s swanky yet soothing blend of warm metals and woods, is an exquisite “creperia.”From this mod glass kitchen, chefs mold thick batter into lunch entrée and dinner dessertcrepes stuffed with dreamy fillings like marinated berries and whip cream. New chef LauraSalomon, formerly of Strings in Denver, also adds another dimension to Carelli’s kitchen. Acomprehensive, finely tuned “boilerplate” menu is complemented by daily specialsincorporating fresh seafood accents like Atlantic salmon risotto drizzled with truffle oil andcitrus-seared swordfish with green tea risotto. And a creative wine list representing all 20 regionsof Italy completes the flawless dining experience patrons find year after year at Boulder’sdiamond in the rough.

FOR BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT: Laudisio Ristorante Italiano1710 29th St., Suite 1076, Boulder, 303.442.1300, www.laudisio.com

FOR BEST PLACE FOR A ROMANTIC DINNER: Flagstaff House Restaurant1138 Flagstaff Road, Boulder, 303.442.4640, www.flagstaffhouse.com

BEST GUNBARREL/NIWOT RESTAURANT

Colterra Food & Wine210 Franklin St., Niwot, 303.652.0777, www.colterra.comColterra owner/chef Bradford Heap received classic European training from culinary legends likeAlain Ducasse, and has served as guest chef at the prestigious James Beard House. Heap hadsuccessful stints at Full Moon Grill and Chautauqua Dining Hall. Colterra’s menu favorsingredients in season from local farms and growers, naturally raised hormone- and antibiotic-freemeats, and sustainably harvested fish from around the world. The cuisine is inspired by the flavorsof Southern France and Northern Italy. Chef Heap offers small dishes that invite guests to try avariety of tastes and sip various wines by the glass from a substantial wine list. Once a month ChefHeap and Sommelier Jonathan Deering combine talents and put on a four-course regional winedinner. “And every Sunday night we offer a prix fixe, three-course supper for $28, and recommendwines to pair with each course (at additional cost),” explains Deering.

Treppeda s Italian Ristorante300 Second Ave., Niwot, 303.652.1606, www.treppedas.com

Boulder’s Choice for Hardwood Flooring • 303.449.3084


BEST BREAKFASTAND BEST BRUNCH

Lucile s Creole Cafe2124 14th St., Boulder, 303.442.4743518 Kimbark St., Longmont, 303.774.9814www.luciles.comTap your feet to the Zydeco, jazz or Cajun music waftingthrough the dining room at Lucile’s, transporting you to once-fabled New Orleans. “Basically, it’s a big party! We celebrateMardi Gras every day,” says Brian Heilman, partner at Lucile’s.“We’ve been doing this for almost 28 years. The food is unique;you can’t get it anywhere else in the area. We have a high-qualityproduct that keeps people coming back. Locals like to show theplace off to out-of-town guests. They like the consistency – theyknow what they’re going to get.” What they’re going to get is aCreole-inspired menu with dishes like Eggs Ponchartrain (freshpan-fried mountain trout, poached eggs, béarnaise sauce), PainPerdu (New Orleans-style French toast), and Eggs Sardou(creamed spinach, Gulf shrimp, poached eggs and hollandaise) –and their divine beignets, a.k.a. powdered-sugar covered donuts.Lucile’s makes Cajun sausage in house, along with jams, hotsauce and even their own ketchup. Lucile’s theme is “Lucile’sCreole Café, Exploring Creole Cooking from Around theWorld.” Creole posters and decorations from the bayou heightenthe colorful ambience.

FOR BEST BREAKFAST:

The Buff Restaurant1725 28th St., Boulder, 303.442.7450www.goldenbufflodge.com

FOR BEST BRUNCH:

Greenbriar Inn8735 N. Foothills Hwy., Boulder, 303.440.7979www.greenbriarinn.com

VINYL REPLACEMENT WINDOWS

ALL-SEASON PATIO ROOMS

Rockwell Ave.

OFFER CODE: BCG10

Applies to Champion VinylReplacement Windows & Patio Rooms

©CH

AMPI

ON

2008

TE13

179

Discount applies to our regular prices. All prices include expert installation. Sorry, noadjustments can be made to prior sales. Minimum purchase required. Offers expire 10/31/08.

Now acceptingAmerican Express®

www.ChampionFactoryDirect.com

Reach Us 24/7…It’s Easy!

5850 Byrd Dr.,LOVELAND

303-499-7800970-612-0811877-221-0770

Exclusively at Champion


BEST LONGMONT/LYONS RESTAURANT

Oskar BluesCajun Grill & Brewery303 Main St., Lyons, 303.823.6685www.oskarblues.com“We enjoy what we do,” says Wayne Bowers,general manager. “When you go out to eat,it’s rare to see the staff enjoying themselves –but we do here. As to the food, we serve a lotof Cajun and a little bit of everything else. It’sall homemade. We’ve got the main diningroom upstairs, another downstairs with livemusic five nights a week – blues and R&Band bluegrass.” (Hey, this is Lyons,remember? Music, music, music!)

Pumphouse Brewery& Restaurant540 Main St., Longmont, 303.702.0881www.pumphousebrewery.com

BEST PLACE FOR TEA Dushanbe Tea House1770 13th St., Boulder, 303.442.4993, www.boulderteahouse.comThanks to artisans from Tajikistan, the Dushanbe Tea House is a feast for the eyes, not just the palate. Lavish and colorful decorativeelements appear everywhere – on the hand-carved and hand-painted ceiling, tables, stools, columns and exterior ceramic panels – withstellar, solar and floral motifs taken from nature. Inside and outside, the building is a delight to see. “We’re the only authentic Persian teahouse in North America,” says director of operations Nathan Pulley. “We value being a part of this community, and we’re blessed with thisbuilding. The menu is a constant surprise to local people as well as visitors. Our tea menu is extensive, with 90 to 95 diverse and high-quality teas. And we serve four meals a day: breakfast, lunch, tea and dinner.”

Pekoe Sip House1225 Alpine Ave., Boulder, 303.444.5953, www.pekoesiphouse.com

BEST PIZZA

Abo s Pizza2761 Iris Ave., Boulder, 303.443.19211110 13th St., Boulder, 303.443.31994745 Walnut St., Suite D, Boulder, 303.443.6582637 S. Broadway St., Boulder, 303.494.1274720 Austin Ave., Erie, 303.828.97774626 Centerplace Drive, Longmont, 303.678.01111834 Main St., Longmont, 303.678.01111355 South Boulder Road, Louisville, 303.604.98967960 Niwot Road, Niwot, 303.652.0830502 Center Drive, Superior, 720.304.6000www.abospizza.comWith 10 locations in Boulder County, Abo’sPizza is “everywhere” and all-around good.The New York-style pizza, with its bumpythin crust, is great by the slice, greater whenyou order a whole pie. The dough is madefresh daily and hand tossed according to theauthentic Neapolitan New York tradition.The sauce is light and sweet, with just a hintof tartness. “Definitely, our customers cometo Abo’s because they appreciate the quality,”says Brian Kehoe, owner of the Broomfieldstore. “And our fantastic staff goes all out.”There’s simply no topping an Abo’s pizza ...except with olives, sausage, pepperoni – youget the picture.

Proto s Pizza4670 Broadway St., Boulder, 720.565.1050489 Highway 287, Lafayette, 303.661.3030600 Airport Road, Longmont, 303.485.5000www.protospizza.com

BEST RESTAURANT SERVICE Flagstaff House Restaurant1138 Flagstaff Road, Boulder, 303.442.4640, www.flagstaffhouse.comSome restaurants have great service, some have an impressive menu, some have a large wine collection and others have a breathtakinglocation. The Flagstaff House Restaurant has it all: award-winning food, a 20,000-bottle wine cellar and unrivaled views of Boulder fromits 6,000-foot perch in the foothills. But the service – oh the service – it is nothing short of spectacular. “We say, ‘Make a difference toevery table, every night,’” says general manager Scott Monette. And it shows. Eating at the Flagstaff House is an experience. You’ll bepampered without being fussed over by the staff, treated with the utmost kindness and respect. So whether you have questions aboutthe menu, need help picking out a wine, want to make a good impression at a business dinner or need a bit of space to whisper sweetnothings into your partner’s ear, you’ll be given the exact amount of attention you desire. “We realize it’s special to come up here,” addsMonette. “We want to continue to make that special for our customers.”

Frasca Food & Wine1738 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.442.6966, www.frascafoodandwine.com

BEST BOULDER COUNTY EVENTBoulder Creek Festival

P.O. Box 108, Boulder 80306, 303.449.3137, www.bceproductions.comBuy a hammock. Ride a roller coaster. Participate in a native dance. Win a raffle. Learn abouta local non-profit organization. Eat some chili. Clean up your aura. Rock out. Launch yourrubber duck. Participate in your community. The Boulder Creek Festival has something –in fact scores of somethings – for everyone. Last Memorial Day weekend marked thefestival’s 21st year and featured 10 separate event areas, five performance stages for music anddance, and 500 vendors. Phew. Good thing revelers have three full days to experience it all.It’s local, action-packed, the unofficial kickoff to summer and – oh yes – it’s free.

Bolder Boulder5500 Central Ave., Suite 110, Boulder, 303.444.RACE, www.bolderboulder.com


303-530-7333303-530-7333www.bouldervalleytransfer.com

THANK YOUTHANK YOU for voting usfor voting usBoulder County’s Best Moving CompanyBoulder County’s Best Moving Company

Year after Year!Year after Year!

We’d like to thank our local residents for all of theircontinued support over the years.

SaveSave15%15%

Up to $300 OffSome restrictions apply, call for details

Not valid with any other offer. Exp. 2/28/09


BEST RESTAURANT TO BRING KIDS

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers & Spirits2580 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.442.0320; 2331 Clover Basin Drive, Longmont, 720.652.9229; www.redrobin.comRed Robin, which was recently named one of the “10 Best Family Restaurants” by Parents magazine, providesan upbeat, come-as-you-are environment where kids – and adults – can be kids. “Our goal is, and always hasbeen, providing our guests with exceptional service, high-quality food and a fun, family-friendly diningexperience,” said Eric Houseman, Red Robin president and chief operating officer. Mission accomplished.Balloons, activity pages, crayons and the lovable Red Robin himself go a long way toward making eating outwith kids a fun activity. But it’s the menu that seals the deal – mac and cheese, chicken fingers, cheeseburgers,corn dogs and more for the kids, and more than two dozen gourmet burgers, as well as salads, soups, appetizers,entrees, desserts and unique beverage offerings, for the adults. Have an extremely picky eater? Fear not, thecooks are more than happy to prepare custom orders. Red Robin also gets bonus points for offering healthyside options on its kids’ menu and providing a detailed ingredient guide for those of us with food allergies.

McDonald s1800 28th St., Boulder, 303.443.47002920 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.449.1916939 Dillon Road, Louisville, 303.666.90331051 South Hover St., Longmont, 303.682.1948399 North Highway 287, Lafayette, 303.926.8811245 South Main St., Longmont, 303.776.93831900 North Main St., Longmont, 303.772.3017www.mcdonalds.com

BEST THEATER PERFORMANCE

Boulder s Dinner Theatre5501 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.449.6000, www.theatreinboulder.comAfter more than 30 years in business and countless awards (including a slew of Boulder County Golds), you’d think thetalented artists at Boulder’s Dinner Theatre might be getting just a little complacent. Not a chance. “It all comes downto love ... love of the theatre,” enthuses artistic director/producer Michael J. Duran. “Everyone here has such passion forwhat we do, and it shows in our productions.” It also shows in the customer service. Boulder’s Dinner Theatre actors notonly deliver Broadway-quality performances, they serve drinks, bread, salad and gourmet entrées as well. It’s a fullevening of delicious entertainment that has to be experienced to be believed.

Colorado Shakespeare FestivalUniversity of Colorado (Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre and University Theatre), Boulder, 303.492.0554, www.coloradoshakes.org

Appointments are recommended & preferred30th St. & Walnut • Boulder, CO • www.tanstogo.com

303-444-7600

Boulder’s FinestTanning Salon

9 Beds - 5 Different Tanning Systems

Individual CD Sound Systems • Lotions

New! Airbrush tanning


BEST PLACE TO HEAR LIVE MUSIC Fox Theatre1135 13th St., Boulder, 303.443.3399, www.foxtheatre.comThe Fox Theatre building has housed a wealth of entertainment options throughout its many incarnations, and was the firstestablishment on University Hill to be given landmark status. But don’t be fooled by its historic pedigree. The place is anythingbut old-fashioned. The Fox Theatre is home to cutting edge, crystal clear, live music – rock, blues, hip-hop, jazz, punk, reggae,folk, indie, country and everything in between. Big-ticket artists, fresh talent and local favorites light up the stage five nights aweek. “We work really hard to keep Boulder dialed in with the best top-shelf music in the nation,” says box office manager JoeSeehusen. “And you’re gonna see us on the top for a long, long time.”

Nissi s2675 North Park Drive, Lafayette, 303.666.2757, www.nissis.com

BEST DESSERT

Cheesecake Factory1401 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.546.0222www.thecheesecakefactory.comThe Cheesecake Factory is celebrating 30 years ofdelivering decadent, delicious desserts, as well as a fullspread of savory meals, to its customers this year. What’sthe secret of its success? “I think it’s The CheesecakeFactory’s innovativemenu that keeps guestscoming back,” explainsAlethea Rowe, directorof restaurant marketing.Indeed, there are morethan 200 choices in TheCheesecake Factory’sexpansive menu, as wellas 50 different dessertsto satisfy your sweettooth – from its originalrecipe cheesecake to fruittortes and crisps tosublime ice cream creations. “This summer weintroduced 12 new menu items, including our 30thAnniversary Chocolate Cake Cheesecake that supportsAmerica’s Second Harvest – The Nation’s Food BankNetwork with a 25-cent donation for every slice soldthis year,” says Rowe. So now eating some of the mostfamous cheesecake in the country not only tastes good,it’s good for the community. Talk about a win-win.

Glacier Home Made Ice Cream & Gelato3133 28th St., Boulder, 303.440.65424760 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.499.47601350 College Ave., Boulder, 303.442.44001749 Main St., Longmont, 303.485.8834www.glacierhomemadeicecream.com

GO

DIV

AC

HO

CO

LATE

CH

EES

ECA

KE,

WW

W.T

HEC

HEE

SEC

AK

EFA

CTO

RY.

CO

M

HONEST • EXPERIENCED • RELIABLE

303.443.5885 • WWW.TAYLORMOVE.COM

Locally owned & operatedby the Taylor Family

Tayloredto your needs!

Full Service Moving & Storage

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BOULDER COUNTY'SBEST MOVING COMPANY YEAR AFTER YEAR

Licensed, Bonded & Insured

Member of Tom Martino’s Referral List


SERVICES, FACES & PLACES

BEST AUTO REPAIR SHOP / SERVICE DEPT. Hoshi Motors2504 Spruce St., Boulder, 303.449.6632, www.hoshimotors.netPeople need to be able to trust that their cars will get them where they need to go. When they don’t, they need an auto repairshop they can trust. A straightforward approach, not to mention a highly competent staff of mechanics, has built HoshiMotors a reputation as an honest shop. Owner Laurie Farmen says, “Telling the truth is always easiest. We are trustworthy.”That ethic has served Hoshi as its staff has served Boulder County’s Acura, Honda, Subaru and Toyota drivers for 24 years.Many on the Hoshi staff have been with the auto shop for 15 years or longer, a testament to the shop’s consistency. And whiletheir honest, friendly and personal approach to customer service is old school, Hoshi – which mean’s “star” in Japanese – hasbroken new ground in one way. Hoshi has ushered women into a traditionally male-dominated workplace. Along withFarmen, Hoshi’s parts manager and one of the auto-repair shop’s mechanics are female.

Super-Rupair1309 Yarmouth Ave., Boulder, 303.442.6508, www.superrupair.com

BEST CAR WASH Puddle Touch-Free Car Wash3100 28th St., Boulder, 303.447.9274, www.puddlecarwash.comBoulder County drivers are rough on their second homes, otherwise known as their cars. Whatwith the treks to the mountains, the weekly errands with kids in the back, or the jaunt to theopen space with dogs in tow. When they decide to pamper their cars, local drivers often aim forPuddle, which is celebrating its 35th year of cleaning cars in Boulder. “People understand theirvehicle is in most cases their second-largest investment after their home; you need to maintainit,” says Puddle owner Steve Miller. “And a clean car is a lot more fun to be around than a dirtyone.” The full-service car wash and detail shop is open roughly 70 hours a week, and its 50employees are expert at the basic inside-and-out vacuum and wash (done in less than 15minutes), and more serious mop-up jobs as well. They do minor dent and paint repair, too.Miller says its Puddle’s dedicated staff, some of whom have been with the company 20 years,that deserves the spotlight. “Our success is a function of our employees,” Miller says. “They’rethe ones that produce the finished product.”

Black Diamond Car Wash1414 Hecla Way, Louisville, 303.666.6696

BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY / OFFICEWright-Kingdom Real Estate

4875 Pearl E. Circle, Suite 100, Boulder, 1.800.343.8885, www.wrightkingdom.comWright-Kingdom opened on April 1, 1976, and that’s no joke. Celebrating its 32nd year inbusiness, it is a local company with deep roots in the community. And it’s also connected toLeading Real Estate Companies of the World, a network of independent, privately heldcompanies with 5,000 offices in the United States and in 25 countries. “We’re fortunate; oursuccess is directly related to the people here – agents, a full-time relocation director and theoffice staff,” says general manager Dan Kingdom. “They average close to 17 years with thecompany. We have a very active group of Realtors involved in more than 100 non-profits,primarily in Colorado.” Some of the organizations are The Children’s Hospital in Denver, IHave a Dream Foundation, Stand Up for Kids, and a teen-parent program in the BoulderValley School District. “Our business is about relationships, more than the individualtransaction,” Kingdom says. “Eighty percent of our business is repeat and referral.”

RE/MAX of Boulder2425 Canyon Blvd., Suite 110, Boulder, 303.449.7000, www.boulderco.com

WINNER:BEST FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONin Boulder County

WINNER:BEST LOCAL EMPLOYERin Boulder County

eco

Thanks to all our members, employees and the communityfor honoring BVCU with this outstanding recognition.

Not already a BVCU member? Come find out why we’re not only“Boulder’s Best Financial Institution” but its most eco-conscious.Visit www.WeCareColorado.com to learn more.

Anyone can join. Everyone can benefit.Stop by one of our convenient branchesor visit www.bvcu.org to join today.

In addition to being Boulder’smost green financial institution,we’re now its most gold.

Boulder Valley Credit Union.Better Banking. Naturally.


BEST AC/HEATING SERVICE

Precision Plumbing& Heating5035 Chaparral Court, Boulder, 303.581.1455www.precisionplumbing.comWhen technicians from Precision Plumbing &Heating come calling, they understand they’renot just working on a house, they’re working onyour home. Precision technicians will makeroughly 15,000 service calls in Boulder Countythis calendar year, says owner Tom Robichaud,using one of their fleet of 25 trucks. With 70percent of Precision’s business coming fromrepeat customers, it’s obvious the folks atPrecision, who service residential pluming,A/C, heating and electrical needs, are doingsomething right. Robichaud says the key to hiscompany’s success is his staff of 40 employees.“I’m very blessed to work with people that havehigh integrity. It’s got to be a win for thecustomer, the employee and the company,” hesays. In addition, Precision’s business practiceincludes getting involved with those in need inthe community. Robichaud moved to Boulderas a youngster, graduated from Fairview HighSchool in 1974 and opened Precision in 1982.“I really feel like it’s my professionalresponsibility to give back to the communitythat has given me so much,” Robichaud says.

Meyer s Heating& Air Conditioning, Inc.260 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.442.6640

BEST PLACETO WORK OUT

24 Hour Fitness2950 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.443.26392900 Iris Ave., Boulder, 303.209.9274www.24hourfitness.comShed pounds. Build muscle. Bring backthe spring in your step. Whatever yourwellness goals, 24 Hour Fitness is readyto make them a reality. There are avariety of ways to get healthy, from freeweights to cardio equipment, one-on-one sessions with personal trainers togroup exercise classes, saunas and steamrooms to physical therapy. There areseveral different membership types –something for every commitment level,every lifestyle. Best of all, as the nameimplies, you can get your sweat onwhenever you want. The 38,421-squarefoot facility on Iris is open 24 hours aday, seven days a week, and the 26,163-square foot facility on Baseline is opennearly that often. You can also count ona solid workout when you’re on theroad. There are more than 400 24 HourFitness clubs nationwide.

RallySportHealth and Fitness Club2727 29th St., Boulder, 303.449.4800www.rallysportboulder.com

...for your loyalty, confidence and friendship!Boulder County Gold Winner since 2000!

Thank YouBoulderCountyWATERSTREET • 2425 C ANYON • BOULDER • 303.449 .2626

W W W. W A LT E R S A N D H O G S E T T. C O M


BEST OIL CHANGE Grease Monkey2405 28th St., Boulder, 303.444.93032710 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.499.9844375 Waneka Pkwy., Lafayette, 303.604.2159165 McCaslin Blvd., #A, Louisville, 720.214.28401230 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont, 303.772.88652334 North Main St., Longmont, 303.485.9206www.greasemonkeyintl.comBoth hot and cold seasons in Colorado can be tough on an automobile’s engine. That calls forsomething termed preventative maintenance, which is a fancy way to say have your oil changedmore often than you vote in a presidential election. Most auto manufacturers recommend an oilchange every 3,000 miles or sooner, and once again, Camera readers have voted Grease Monkeythe best place in Boulder County to change out their cars’ old oil for new. One reason is becauseit’s a convenient stop. The national company has six locally owned franchises. And when you stopin and let the mechanics at Grease Monkey pop your hood, they not only change your oil, theyrun through a check-list of maintenance items, including a look at your car’s battery, powersteering and transmission fluids, air filter, coolant and tires, as part of the deal.

Jiffy Lube1788 30th St., Boulder, 303.447.8040; 1408 Hecla Way, Louisville, 720.890.0777; www.jiffylube.com

WE’RE NOT JUST SUSHI.We’re Boulder’s only hibachi tables.

1 6 8 5 2 9 t h S t r e e t • U n i t 1 2 6 8 • B o u l d e r , C O 8 0 3 0 1

P L E A S E C A L L

F O R R E S E R V A T I O N S

3 0 3 . 4 4 0 . 9 6 0 0


Al o h a Me c h a n i c a l I n c .YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD PLUMBERSNew Construction, Residential and Light Commercial

Installation of:• Kitchen/Bath• Traditional & Euro Fixtures• Hot Water Heaters• Water Lines• Gas Lines• Water Filters• Boiler/RadiantHeat• Lawn Sprinkler BackflowPrevention Devices• Solar Thermal Residential Water Heat

(A renewableenergy solution)

303-828-0599We are a small plumbing company. We like it that way. We think you will, too.

Locally owned and operated. Licensed & Insured.

BEST TANNING SALON

Tans To Go1842 30th St., Boulder, 303.444.7600www.tanstogo.comIf you’ve been wondering why theCU-Boulder cheerleaders have seemedespecially eye-catching for the past fewyears, you can thank their sponsorTans To Go. The cheerleaders – alongwith countless loyal, non-sponsoredcustomers who have voted thecompany best in Boulder County forthe past seven years – all sing thepraises of Tans To Go’s flawless results,relaxing environment and stellar staff.“It’s no secret that there are plenty ofgood choices out there for tanning,”maintains owner Doug Swartz. “Likeany other shopping experience, you’regoing to go back where you’re treatedwell. Customer service has to be thekey.” There are several ways to becomesafely and beautifully bronzed at TansTo Go, including a variety ofdifferent tanning beds and the hugelypopular airbrush tans administeredby trained technicians. The store alsostocks a wide assortment of lotions,tanning accessories and SPFmoisturizers to keep your skin suppleand your tan fresh.

VerandaSun1670 30th St., Boulder, 303.447.8844www.verandasun.com

BEST AUTO DEALERFisher Chevrolet

Honda Pontiac6025 Arapahoe Road, Boulder, 800.873.0119www.fisherauto.comFisher Chevrolet Honda Pontiac, the familyowned and operated auto dealer, has servedBoulder County and the Front Range wellfor more than 30 years. Owner Craig Fishersays the key to Fisher’s success is prettysimple. “You’re only as good as youremployees,” Fisher says. “We try to make ita place where people can come to work,have fun, make some money and build acareer.” Many of Fisher Chevrolet HondaPontiac’s 120 employees have done justthat, staying with the local dealership formore than a decade. And as trends in theauto industry have changed, so has Fisher.The local dealership always remains on thecutting edge of information, technologyand customer service. Fisher boasts thelargest selection of new and certified usedcars and trucks in Boulder County, and itsfacility on Arapahoe Road is second tonone. But when it comes down to it, thepersonal touch customers receive when theyshop for a car at Fisher sets it apart. “We’refortunate to have an entire team ofemployees who deeply care about customerservice,” Fisher says.

Flatirons Acura/Subaru5995 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 800.830.6706www.flatironsacura.com

Thank youELEVATIONS CREDIT UNION

BRANCHES IN BOULDER BROOMFIELD LAFAYETTE LONGMONT ELEVATIONSCU.COM 303.443.4672

BEST FINANCIALINSTITUTION!

TO DAILY CAMERAREADERS THAT VOTED FOR


BEST CHILD CARE CENTER YWCA Children s Alley2222 14th St., Boulder, 303.449.1951, www.ywcaboulder.org/programs/childrensalley.htmlJanet Beardsley, director of the YWCA in Boulder, hears this refrain nearly every day: “I don’t know what I’d do withoutChildren’s Alley.” The non-profit organization is the only drop-in day care in Boulder County, and it serves as a last-minute safe haven for families in need, however large or small that need may be. Open from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.Mondays through Saturdays, Children’s Alley takes care of children ages six weeks to 12 years. “We serve three hotmeals a day to children for families who are in crisis, or emergency situations or in transition,” Beardsley says. “We takethem all. And we never turn a child away because they can’t afford it. We have a scholarship fund. Any child, no matterwho they are, will be taken care of.” Children’s Alley has woven their sturdy safety net for more than 20 years indowntown Boulder. For Beardsley, the look on parents’ faces is often her best reward. “They are so relieved that theyhave somewhere safe to take their children,” she says.

Take-a-Break4950 Thunderbird Drive, Boulder, 303.665.9741; 408 W. Baseline Road, Lafayette, 303.665.9741; www.takeabreakchildren.com

BEST DAY CAMP

YMCA Fun in the Sun2850 Mapleton Ave., Boulder, 303.442.27782800 Dagny Way, Lafayette, 303.664.5455www.ymcabv.orgSummer in Boulder County is a magical time, and local youths have a magicaltime at Fun in the Sun, one of the Boulder Valley YMCA summer day camps.The day camp serves children entering kindergarten through those entering 6thgrade. It’s a convenient camp, too, as Fun in the Sun holds camps at eightdifferent locations in Boulder, Louisville and Superior. Children who attend thepopular program focus on outdoor games and activities, and involve themselvesin a variety of arts and crafts. Stimulating field trips – three or four each week –are also on the agenda. What makes Fun in the Sun special, though, is how theprogram emphasizes the value of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility, rightalongside fun and creativity.

Rocky Mountain Day Camp3351 Indiana St., Superior, 303.495.5204, www.rockymtndaycamp.com

BEST CARPET CLEANING SERVICE Nesheim Cleaning Services, Inc.1212 Commerce St., Lafayette, 303.666.8888, www.nesheims.comWhen nearly 80-percent of your business comes from repeat customers, you’re doing something right. Nesheim’s has built thatreputation during the past 27 years with top-notch customer service. Owner Rick Farasyn says they’ve earned the loyalty becauseNesheim’s technicians back up their word with their deeds. “Our technicians are highly educated in the field of carpetconstruction,” Farasyn says. “But, really, it boils down to we’re there when we say we’re going to be there.” And when one ofNesheim’s 15 technicians shows up, they’re prepared with top-of-the-line cleaning equipment and products. Nesheim’s is expert atcarpet, rug and upholstery cleaning, and uses an anti-allergen cleaning and treatment process. Best of all? Nesheim’s offers a 100-percent money-back guarantee on all its work. That’s led to Boulder County readers voting Nesheim’s the Best Carpet CleaningService yet again.

Chem-Dry of Boulder3835 Silver Plume Circle, Boulder, 720.304.3910

BEST PILATES / YOGA CENTER CorePower Yoga645 27th Way, Boulder, 303.497.9642; 3280 28th St., Boulder, 303.440.3930; www.corepoweryoga.comWhat distinguishes CorePower Yoga from other studios is its ability to meet students at every levelof their yoga practice. Newcomers and experienced practitioners alike are welcomed, encouragedand fulfilled by dynamic classes, including CorePower Vinyasa, Hot Yoga, Yoga Sculpt and HotFusion. With a focus on a positive customer experience, outstanding lifestyle programs and highquality teacher trainings, CorePower Yoga continually provides growth opportunities for itsstudents. “I am always so proud to feel a community develop among our yoga students andinstructors,” says Boulder manager Cara Fogel. “Each of these students, no matter the reason theyfirst started a yoga practice, come back to their mat because of the changes they begin to notice notonly in their physical body, but in their daily lives off their mat.” Indeed, CorePower Yoga’s goal isto provide a platform for life transformation through integrated wellness, authentic connection andcharity of spirit.

Yoga Pod1750 29th St., Suite 2020, Boulder, 303.444.4232, www.theyogapod.com

BEST HEARING AID CENTERHearing HealthCare Centers

4800 Baseline Road, Suite E108, Boulder, 303.499.39001515 Main St., Suite 15, Longmont, 303.776.8748www.hearinghealthcarecenters.comHearing HealthCare Centers have been fine tuning Boulder County’s hearing for more than 24 years.The centers house state-of-the-art equipment, offer the finest hearing instruments available and havetop-notch staff. But it’s the individual attention that has made Hearing HealthCare Centers sopopular. “When people come to us, we do everything we can to make them comfortable,” explainsowner Whitney Swander, Au.D. For starters, the company offers free hearing evaluations. Should acorrectable hearing problem be encountered, there are a variety of hearing aids in stock that can bedemonstrated and fitted on the spot. “I like to say the proof is in the pudding,” says Swander. Asfurther proof of its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, Hearing HealthCare Centershas a 60-day evaluation period with a money-back guarantee. The centers also carry a number ofdifferent earplugs to prevent hearing loss.

Boulder Valley Hearing & Speech Center4745 Arapahoe Ave., Suite 130, Boulder, 303.443.2771


BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

Karen Bernardi, Bernardi Real Estate Group at Coldwell BankerBernardi Real Estate Group at Coldwell Banker, 2700 Canyon Blvd., Suite 200, Boulder, 303.402.6000, www.bernardirealestate.com“The main thing is honestyand integrity,” according toKaren Bernardi, who saysshe sells more houses thananyone in Boulder. “We takecustomer service veryseriously and put our clients’needs first. In a tight realestate market people need agood agent to give them thestraight scoop on their real-estate investments – andthese are investments.” Shetakes a team approach in herbusiness. “This marketrequires a lot more work.We’re really aggressive theway we find buyers for ourlistings.” And in dialinginnumerable potentialbuyers herself, she oftenfinds more listings. “I try tobe available 12 to 14 hours aday, seven days a week,because I have a team of good people working for me.” She points out that most real-estate offices are set up for people to handle everyaspect of the business themselves. “They never get good at anything,” she says. Her team approach pays off: By separating the listings partof her business from the buyers’ side, her staff develop expertise in one or the other. Some people on her team are adept at negotiating forbuyers, and she concentrates on the sales listings part of the business and negotiating for sellers. She counts on the team – and herself – toprovide customers with a “rapid response.”

Josette Montgomery, Coldwell Banker — Richards/Montgomery Group30810 Stagecoach Blvd., Suite 101, Evergreen, 303.674.6667

BEST LOCAL SCHOOL

BoulderHigh School1604 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.442.2430http://schools.bvsd.org/boulderhighFounded in 1875 as part of theUniversity of Colorado, Boulder HighSchool is one of Colorad’s oldest andfinest high schools, maintaining strongtraditions in academics, athletics, finearts and activities. The school benefitsfrom its urban setting: Students accessCU’s libraries, the Conference on WorldAffairs Conference, cultural communityactivities – and some can take college-level courses at CU. The school has astrong academic reputation, with one ofthe most extensive Advanced Placementprograms in the state, offering 28 AP-level courses for the 2008 to 2009school year. Boulder High’s AcademicDecathlon team has won state awardsand represented Colorado at thenational competition for the past sixyears. The school has an extensiveforeign language program that includesinstruction in Japanese, Latin, French,Russian, German and Spanish. In varsitysports, Boulder High fields 18 sportsteams each year across three seasons.

Fairview High School1515 Greenbrier Blvd., Boulder303.499.7600www.bvsd.org/schools/Fairview

Boarding

GroomingDoggiePlay Care

303-442-2602

Cottonwoodkennels.Com7275 Valmont Rd, BoulderOpen: 7:30am - 6pm Everyday!

Thank Youfor voting us best again!!


BEST FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONAND BEST LOCAL EMPLOYER

Boulder Valley Credit Union5505 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.442.88502667 Broadway, Boulder, 303.449.3551800 Coal Creek Circle, Louisville, 720.890.0404www.bvcu.orgA year ago, the Boulder Valley Credit Union decided to make a commitment to becoming thefirst fully eco-conscious financial institution in Colorado. While most credit unions and banksconserve paper these days by using e-statements, BVCU implemented a company-wide eco-friendly approach to doing business, says Jason Bauer, BVCU’s V.P. of marketing and e-commerce. BVCU installed solar panels at each of its four branches, and now uses 100-percentrecycled paper for all its marketing materials and in-house paper products. “Everything we buyinternally, we ask the question: How can we purchase this green? How can we make this aneco-friendly decision?” Bauer says. As well, BVCU sponsors local tree plantings and partnerswith other eco-friendly companies on joint ventures. That eco-conscious vision is one of thereasons BVCU’s customers voted the local institution the Best Financial Institution in thecounty for 2008. But that’s not all. BVCU was also voted Best Local Employer in this year’sBest of Boulder County tally. Bauer says BVCU employees cultivate a positive and passionateworking culture. The institution offers employees strong benefits, as well, including anemployer-assisted mortgage program. “People just like working here,” Bauer says.

FOR BEST FINANCIAL INSTITUTION: Elevations Credit Union4760 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.443.46722960 Diagonal Highway, Boulder, 303.443.4672607 South Boulder Road, Boulder, 303.443.4672University Memorial Center, CU campus, Boulder, 303.443.46721900 W. South Boulder Road, Lafayette, 303.443.46721079 S. Hover, Suite 100, Longmont, 303.443.46722101 N. Main St., Longmont, 303.443.4672www.elevationscu.com

FOR BEST LOCAL EMPLOYER: Boulder Community HospitalBCH Main Campus, 1100 Balsam Ave., Boulder, 303.440.2273BCH Foothills, 4747 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 720.854.7000Community Medical Center, 1000 West South Boulder Road, Lafayette, 303.666.4357Gunbarrel Medical Center, 6685 Gunpark Drive East, Suite 110, Boulder, 303.530.3062Mapleton Center for Rehabilitation, 311 Mapleton Ave., Boulder, 303.440.2273Boulder Center for Sports Medicine, 311 Mapleton Ave., Boulder, 303.544.5700Boulder Center for Sports Medicine East, 400 South McCaslin Blvd., Louisville, 303.926.2665BCH Medical Pavilion, 1155 Alpine Ave., Boulder, 303.440.2288BCH Surgery Center, 1136 Alpine Ave., Boulder, 303.938.5470Worldwide Travel Clinic, 1136 Alpine Ave., Suite 205, Boulder, 303.938.5334www.bch.org

BEST MEDICAL FACILITY

Boulder Community HospitalBCH Main Campus, 1100 Balsam Ave., Boulder, 303.440.2273BCH Foothills, 4747 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 720.854.7000Community Medical Center, 1000 West South Boulder Road, Lafayette, 303.666.4357Gunbarrel Medical Center, 6685 Gunpark Drive East, Suite 110, Boulder, 303.530.3062Mapleton Center for Rehabilitation, 311 Mapleton Ave., Boulder, 303.440.2273Boulder Center for Sports Medicine, 311 Mapleton Ave., Boulder, 303.544.5700Boulder Center for Sports Medicine East, 400 South McCaslin Blvd., Louisville, 303.926.2665BCH Medical Pavilion, 1155 Alpine Ave., Boulder, 303.440.2288BCH Surgery Center, 1136 Alpine Ave., Boulder, 303.938.5470Worldwide Travel Clinic, 1136 Alpine Ave., Suite 205, Boulder, 303.938.5334www.bch.orgFounded in 1922 as a community-owned and operated not-for-profit hospital, BoulderCommunity Hospital (BCH) has been taking care of our health ever since. Last year, its first-rate staff welcomed 1,530 newborns, performed 149 open-heart surgeries, hosted 370,000outpatient visits and conducted 2,382,417 laboratory tests. In every instance, patients weretreated with the utmost compassion. Not to mention the best medical care available today.“The doctors, staff and volunteers at BCH are committed to providing our community withthe latest medical treatments in the safest possible environment,” said hospital PR directorRich Sheehan. “We’re proud of our ability to regularly introduce new treatments and medicaltechnologies to Boulder. It’s really gratifying to be publicly recognized for meeting thatimportant commitment.”

Boulder Medical CenterBMC Broadway (Main), 2750 Broadway, Boulder, 303.440.3000BMC Foothills, 4745 Arapahoe Ave., Suite 200, Boulder, 303.938.4700BMC Avista, 80 Health Park Drive, Suite 100, Louisville, 303.673.0448www.bouldermedicalcenter.com

Ted Kawulok, D.D.S.Reservations: 303.442.86251400 28TH ST STE 4 BLDR WHOLEFAMILYDENTISTRY.COM

Thank you for your 25 years of loyal support!We’re looking forward to many more years of serving you,

your family and friends.

...becauselife isn’t

about findingyourself, it’s

about creatingyourself...

www.fixhairsalon.com

ThankYou Boulder,for making us your #1 Salon! Please come in for arelaxing deep conditioning treatment and headmassage on us with any color or cut service!

1810 Twenty Ninth St. Ste. #2000, Boulder, CO 80301 • 303.442.HAIR (4247)

Expires October 31st 2008 - Please bring in ad to redeemand mention ad when setting your reservation


BEST HAIR SALON

FIX Hair Salon1810 Twenty Ninth Street, Suite 2000, 303.442.4247, www.fixhairsalon.comAt FIX hair salon in Boulder, “giving back is the new black.” Thestylists at the salon at Twenty Ninth Street make it a habit to cut hairfor local charity events on a regular basis. “It’s important to take part inthe community that you live in so that people know that there’ssomeone there for them,” says FIX owner Robin Laurel. Clients whovisit FIX luxuriate in a high-tech shop stocked with state-of-the-artequipment, much of it imported from Italy. Blow dryers suspendedfrom the ceilings eliminate shoulder problems for FIX’s stylists andkeep cumbersome cords off the floor. But FIX’s finest feature may beits unique color bar. Rather than disappear into the back of the shopand reappear with a mystery tone, FIX stylists mix your own specialblend right in front of you. And FIX’s relationship with the PaulMitchell company means it uses top-of-the-line products and its stylistsare kept up to date on the latest trends and techniques in hair styling.Whether it’s time for regular attention, or something more critical, FIXis a popular stop. “You can come in and get your hair fixed, or just getyour hair fix,” Laurel says.

The Parlour1037 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.444.3747, www.theparlour.net

BEST PLACE FOR WORSHIP Unity of Boulder2855 Folsom St., Boulder, 303.442.1411, www.unityofboulder.comUnity of Boulder is part of a worldwide Christian organization that is more than a century old. A nondenominational church, it stresses a positive approach to life and seeks to relate religionto daily living. “Unity of Boulder recognizes the Divine nature in everyone and facilitates the personal transformation that leads to this Enlightened nature,” explains Minister Jack Groverland.“Ours is an experiential, not a theological, based religion.” Unity of Boulder offers Sunday services and children’s Sunday school at 9 and 11 a.m. every week. Special programs are held onSunday for sixth- to eighth-graders (at 11 a.m.) and ninth- to twelfth-graders (at 10 a.m.). Unity of Boulder also has a weekly healing meditation service on Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

Flatirons Community Church400 W. South Boulder Road, #100, Lafayette, 303.664.5524, www.flatironschurch.com

IN THEVILLAGE AT 2525ARAPAHOECALL303 447 0210

ThankYou For YourContinued Support!


BEST FUNERAL HOME SERVICE PROVIDERCrist Mortuary & Crematory

3395 Penrose Place, Boulder, 303.442.4411, www.cristmortuary.comDeath waits for no one. So when the inevitable happens to a loved one, it’s gratifying to knowthat compassionate, experienced professionals are ready to help. Crist Mortuary & Crematoryis Boulder’s only full-service funeral home, with an on-site crematory and cemetery. “Our goalis to make a difficult time as easy as possible,” says general manager Michael Greenwood. “Toserve the family well.” Crist Mortuary provides a variety of services to help families withpreplanning, arrangements and aftercare. The exemplary staff at Crist Mortuary, many ofwhom have been involved in the Boulder community for years, are committed to alleviatingthe burdens of a death in the family with respect and dignity. “Our customer service is secondto none,” confirms Greenwood.

Howe Mortuary439 Coffman St., Longmont, 303.776.2434, www.howemortuary.com

BEST HOLISTIC CARE / WELLNESS CENTERWellness Center at Frasier Meadows

350 Ponca Place, Boulder, 720.562.4317, www.frasiermeadows.orgAt Frasier Meadows, wellness is viewed from a whole person perspective. “There are no carboncopies of programs,” explains director of wellness Lyn McQueen. “Everything is individualized.”Each personalized program is created and facilitated by highly trained staff, and incorporates thesix aspects of wellness: social, occupational, physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual. Loftyobjectives, but the Wellness Center is fantastically equipped. The facility has a strength trainingarea, warm water resistance pool, treatment rooms and a large classroom. Offerings includeeverything from acupuncture to CranioSacral Therapy, yoga to aquasize classes, meditation tobiking groups, facials to reflexology, and much more. Clients can work toward their goals as theysee fit – independently, in a group setting or one-on-one with a trainer. Says McQueen: “Our goalis to fuel that spark of wellness that’s in all of us.”

Pharmaca Integrative Pharmacy1647 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.442.51642700 Broadway, Boulder, 303.442.0589645 South Broadway, Boulder, 303.867.3400www.pharmaca.com

can you?Imagine2009

Thanks for allYour Support!

Avalon Ballroom6185 Arapahoe

Reservations requested.

Call 303-786-8727

*SEPTEMBER 28*OCTOBER 4, 5, 11 & 26

Show at 11:00 am, lunch at 12:00 pmLunch at 1:00 pm, show at 1:45 pm

$10 admission includes lunch

*S 28

Disney’sHIGH SCHOOL

MUSICAL

Peanut Butter Playerspresent...


BEST KARATE / MARTIAL ARTS STUDIOTran s Martial Arts & Fitness Center

3101-1/2 28th St., Boulder, 303.402.9460, www.transmartialarts.com802 South Public Road, Unit A, Lafayette, 720.299.0940, www.trans-mafc/lafayette.htm117 South Sunset St., Longmont, 303.776.1887, www.trans-mafc.comTran’s Martial Arts & Fitness Center is committed to helping its students achieve their potential as athletes and people. Its award-winning Muay Thai Kickboxing and Tae Kwon Do programs are designed to build stamina, focus and life skills, both physically andmentally. Some follow the path to earning a Black Belt degree. Others use the training to boost performance in a different sport. Andstill others choose to participate in Tran’s fitness classes on a walk-in basis. Whatever level of commitment students choose, Tran’sMartial Arts & Fitness Center is there to help them make the most of it. “We make sure that we keep our promises to our students –whatever they sign up for,” asserts owner and chief instructor Master Vu Tran.

Way of the Crane1925 55th St., Boulder, 303.442.7559, www.wayofthecrane.com

BEST INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICE / STUDIO

McGuckin Design Center2460 Canyon Blvd., Boulder, 303.449.3779, www.mcguckin.comThere’s faucet hardware. There’s fine art. And there’s faucet hardwarethat looks like fine art. Welcome to McGuckin Design Center, BoulderCounty’s one-stop-shop for kitchen and bath design, where paintingsand sculptures coexist happily with toilets and counter tops. Theshowroom features a staggering selection of products, frominternational lines to local artisans, high-end splurges to budgetfixtures, cutting-edge components to environmental materials. It alsofeatures a wealth of art to spark the imagination and bring themerchandise to life. The name McGuckin is synonymous with quality,variety and unbelievable customer service thanks to its landmarkhardware store. The McGuckin Design Center serves up more of thesame for interior designers, architects, builders and the do-it-yourselfpublic in a creative, inspiring setting. You’ll never look at your sink thesame way again.

Bartlett Interiors2020 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.442.5194

BEST DRY CLEANER /LAUNDROMAT

Art Cleaners1715 15th St., Boulder, 303.440.86002570 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.499.70304800 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.494.27091501 Lee Hill Road, Boulder, 303.447.87003980 N. Broadway, Boulder, 303.443.01581631 Pace St., Longmont, 303.684.8585www.artcleaners.comThe only dry cleaning company in Boulder thatoffers the Green Earth Cleaning Systems happensto be the one voted best DryCleaner/Laundromat by Camera readers. ArtCleaners, which has six locations in Boulder andLongmont, has been using the Green Earthsystem since 2004. Owner Brian Hansen says theunique cleaning product uses a natural, sand-likesubstance to eradicate dirt and grime from yourclothes. “It’s very gentle on the environment,”Hansen says. “There’s no harmful chemicals in it.It’s very good for cleaning because it’s very soft. Itpenetrates the fibers, it gives the cleaning a softtouch. And you don’t have to worry about any airpollution, VOCs or hazardous waste.” ArtCleaners has been around since 1921. The priceof clothing has risen just a little bit during thepast 80-plus years. The people at Art Cleaners arededicated to keeping your clothes in primecondition. “Our focus is to listen to thecustomers and provide them the service andattention they need,” Hansen says.

John s Cleaners3325 28th St., #6, Boulder, 303.444.28771848 30th St., Boulder, 303.442.8508

BEST RETIREMENT /ALTERNATIVE OR ELDER CARE /ASSISTED LIVING The Academy970 Aurora Ave., Boulder, 303.938.1920, www.theacademyboulder.com“The Academy is a beautiful place, but it’s the people who live here and the people who work here who make it special,” says Karen McMurray, a managingdirector and co-owner of the Academy. “We have only 60 to 70 residents and 60 employees – we’re like a family. Everybody in collaboration makes it aspecial place.” The Academy’s mission statement tells it all: To be a community of excellence that fosters meaningful living in an intimate environment ofgrace and beauty. “We – all employees – always try to go the extra mile for everyone here,” McMurray says. “Because we’re small, everyone knows everyone.The staff gives so much. It’s the small size coupled with the dedication of staff to be excellent in all they do that make this a special place.”

Frasier Meadows Retirement Community350 Ponca Place, Boulder, 303.499.4888, www.frasiermeadows.org


BEST LASIK/ LASER EYE FACILITY / SURGEON

InSight Lasik1120 W. South Boulder Road, Lafayette, 303.665.7577, www.insightlasik.com“We are in the perfection business,” says Dr. Jimmy Jackson, president of InSight Lasik. The facility and its experiencedvision correction specialists, who have collectively treated more than 30,000 patients, approach perfection with acombination of high touch and high tech. High touch is being slow, methodical and conservative, with tremendousattention to detail. High tech is continually investing in the newest and best technology. Then the whole package iswrapped in exceptional customer service. Free in-depth consultations, state-of-the-art vision correction andcomprehensive follow-up care are all part of the package. No wonder InSight Lasik is consistently named the best inBoulder County. Says Jackson: “Our goal at InSight Lasik is for every patient to say, ‘My vision is perfect and they tookphenomenal care of me each step of the way.’”

Beyer Laser Center1810 30th St., Suite B, Boulder, 303.554.5855, www.bouldereyes.com

BEST MOVING COMPANY

Taylor Moving4949 North Broadway, #110, Boulder, 303.443.5885, www.taylormove.comFor nearly 15 years, savvy individuals, businesses and non-profitshave entrusted their possessions to Taylor Moving, a locally ownedand operated company that has earned its reputation fortrustworthiness, superior service and client satisfaction. “Taking careof our customers is our No. 1 thing,” explains Glen Taylor, whoowns the company with his wife Leah. It shows: Taylor Movingtransports as many as 1,200 households and organizations everyyear, most of which within Boulder County, but many throughoutColorado and some out of state. The bulk of its moves are the resultof repeat business and referrals from happy clients. “We put a lot ofthought in the kinds of crews we send out,” says Taylor. “We try tomatch up the crews with the customers.” Rest assured though, everycrew is set up to exceed your expectations. Every one of TaylorMoving’s 20-plus movers has at least two years of on-the-job movingexperience. Your belongings will be in good hands.

The Moving Connection1930 Central Ave., Suite E, Boulder, 303.665.6683,www.movingconnection.com

NowOffering ProFractional Treatment!

Board Certified Facial Plastic SurgeonsMicroLaser Peel • IPL/Photofacial • Skin Tightening • Vitalize Peel

Laser Hair Removal • Laser Vein Treatment • BOTOX • Radiesse • Juvederm

4745 Arapahoe, Suite 130, Boulder • 303-558-8800 • www.enhanceyourskin.com

Free Skin Consultation, Call 303-558-8800

10% OFF Any Laser Treatment


BEST VETERINARIAN Broadway Animal Hospital1405 South Broadway, Boulder, 303.499.5505, www.broadwayanimal.comBroadway Animal Hospital is accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association and providesimmunization and wellness care, surgery, dental care, nutritional counseling, pain management andeuthanasia services, as well as pet day care, boarding, and grooming. The hospital is home to state-of-the-art animal care technology and facilities, including a new outdoor fitness area for dogs thatfeatures field turf and an innovative, extensive drainage system. But what really endears the pets andthose who love them to Broadway Animal Hospital are the people. From the veterinarians to theoffice staff, everyone who works for the hospital has a genuine love for animals. “We are thrilled withour staff,” says veterinarian and hospital director Lee Woods, who established Broadway AnimalHospital in 1991 and was joined by veterinarian Patrick Kalenzi in 2002. “We’ve been very fortunateto have bright, dedicated young people who are motivated to do a superior job.”

Arapahoe Animal Hospital5585 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.442.7033, www.arapahoeanimalhospital.com

Find out what allthe buzz is aboutAt Wink Optical we strive to be Boulder’s bestoptical shop everyday and thank our loyal customersfor all their referrals and recommendations.In just 18 months Wink is flying high.

Come see for yourself what all the buzz is about.

Experience Wink - an optical fusion of personalized service,leading edge science and distinctive style.

303-443-43113301 30th Street, Boulder, CO 80301 www.winkoptical.net

BOULDER2500 Pearl St303-443-1715

PARK MEADOWS9197 E. Westview Rd

303-708-9655

DENVER759 S. Colorado Blvd

303-733-2121

visit us online at mikescamera.com

Thank You Boulder

Boulder’s very ownMike’s Camera… voted

America’s Best Camera storePhoto Trade News Magazine

& Photofinisher of the YearPhoto Industry Reporter

for making us your favorite camerastore for over 41 years!


BEST PET GROOMING SERVICE The Hydrant2900 Valmont Road, Boulder, 303.442.7550After 32 years in the grooming business, The Hydrant knows a thing or two about keeping itscustomers and their canines refreshed. Clients come back time and again for “excellent customerservice, the wonderful care of their pets and, of course, the great haircut,” laughs manager ElishaMartinez. But you’ll find more than just standard grooming here. The Hydrant’s most popularservice is its spa package, which includes a facial, aromatherapy, paw treatment and specialcologne. A facial for your pooch, in case you’re wondering, involves a specially formulated scrubdesigned to remove and repel odors. “It’s tearless and leaves a lasting clean smell on the dog’s face,”says Martinez. That’s a win-win typical of all the work the experienced staff at The Hydrant does:Great for your furry best friend, even better for you.

Broadway Animal Hospital1405 South Broadway, Boulder, 303.499.5505, www.broadwayanimal.com

BEST PET BOARDING SERVICE

Cottonwood Kennels7275 Valmont Road, Boulder, 303.442.2602, www.cottonwoodkennels.comCottonwood Kennels has been providing Boulder County’s pets with tender loving, play-and-staycare since 1977. Located on a small farm that also houses sheep, alpaca, ducks, chickens andpeacocks, the facility features spacious, stimulating indoor and outdoor environments for dogs,cats, birds, bunnies, ferrets and most other small animals. Special needs pets are welcomed, andthe kennel has a toll-free number that owners can call any time for a progress report. But whatsets Cottonwood Kennels apart, year after year, are the pet-to-person connections. Its large staffis dedicated to providing extensive, high quality human interaction with every one of its boarders,every single day. “The bottom line is you have to really care, you have to want to do the best jobpossible,” says Tom Bonfili, who owns the kennel with Penny Vardell. “And we do.”

Broadway Animal Hospital1405 South Broadway, Boulder, 303.499.5505, www.broadwayanimal.com

540 Main Stree t • Downtown Longmon t • 303.702.0881

AHHHHHyeah.

BEST LONGMONTRESTAURANT

2003,2004,2005, 2007

Thanks foryour support!

COME CHECK OUTCOLORADO’S

PREMIERSPORTS BAR

radiance from the source

YOGA ~ MASSAGE ~ AYURVEDA ~ BOUTIQUE

720-890-8980 • www.alayayogaspa.com159 McCaslin Blvd, Louisville CO

(less than 5 miles from Boulder)RECEIVE $20 OFF OF ANY AYURVEDICTREATMENT BY PRESENTING THIS AD


Get personal. Read and participate in Camera editorial and community blogs onlocal news, politics, fashion, fitness and more. Log on to DailyCamera.com today

blog.

Call 303.444.3444 or log on to DailyCamera.com to subscribe.


BEST TEACHERStacey Mandel

Alicia Sanchez Elementary School655 Sir Galahad Drive, Lafayette, 303.665.2044, www.bvsd.org/schools/SanchezRemember your favorite teacher from elementary school? Stacey Mandel is sure to be one whomstudents at Alicia Sanchez Elementary School in Lafayette will fondly recall. A reading specialistin her 11th year of teaching, Mandel works with students in kindergarten through 5th grade. “Ihave a lot of energy and really value my relationships with my students and their families. Iconsider myself a learner along with my students.” She is enthusiastic about her work. “There area lot of great things at school. It’s becoming an International Baccalaureate School, and our kidsare learning about becoming global citizens.” She works one-on-one with the kids or with smallgroups, and she team-teaches. In the school district, Mandel helps other teachers improve and isactive in committees on literacy and professional development. In her free time she runs, hikes,backpacks and climbs with her golden retriever named Charlie. “And I love to read,” she adds.

Doug London, Alexander Dawson School10455 Dawson Drive, Lafayette, 303.665.6679, www.dawsonschool.org


BEST SPA Essentiels Spa2660 Canyon Blvd. Boulder, 303.440.0711, www.essentialsspa.comEssentiels, which opened in 1997, is one of the Premier Spas of America – 40 elegantspas, salons and boutiques throughout North America that provide luxurious andbeneficial wellness and beauty services. A specialized treatment that Essentiels offers isthe Mermaid, a detox treatment that is the spa’s “ultimate body experience.” Themassage therapist chooses a specific seaweed wrap to achieve a desired effect, thenprograms a thermal bed with steamers and shower heads that massage the client’s headas the seaweed works its magic. The treatment ends with a lotion that complements theseaweed. Nicole Torrens, assistant director, says, “We offer everything from bodytreatments and waxing to specialized facials. Our technicians are dedicated and lovewhat they do. They give the best possible spa experience.”

St. Julien Hotel & Spa900 Walnut St., Boulder, 877.303.0900, www.stjulien.com

BEST STORAGE FACILITY

Boulder Bins Self Storage4900 N. Broadway, Boulder, 303.443.2002, www.selfstorageboulder.comThe staff at Boulder Bins works as a team – manager Deb Beecham; her mother, BarbColclasure; and France Rumpf. As Beecham says: “Our team at Boulder Bins providesexceptional customer service that extends beyond the core business of renting storageunits. We go out of our way to ensure your storage transition is a smooth one. We prideourselves on offering friendly, caring, personal service, with a smile! The Boulder BinsTeam is fully committed to providing our customers an exceptional customer serviceexperience. We realize our customers are storing their ‘treasures,’ and we appreciate theirtrust in us. Their referrals and repeat business is not only appreciated, it’s considered acompliment to us! Thanks to everyone who voted for us!”

U Store It6405 O’Dell Place, Boulder, 303.530.36004545 N. Broadway, Boulder, 303.444.78675815 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.449.56136338 Arapahoe Road, Boulder, 303.245.0388www.ustoreit.com

BEST SKINCARE FACILITY

Laser & Cosmetic Associates of Boulder4745 Arapahoe Ave., Suite 130, Boulder, 303.558.8800, www.enhanceyourskin.comLook good and feel good! Laser & Cosmetic Associates of Boulder is owned and operated bylocal board-certified physicians. They offer medical-grade skin and facial rejuvenationtreatments that provide exceptional and lasting results – combining state-of-the-industry laserand non-surgical treatments with facial plastic surgery. The medical doctors and expert staffcombine technology with personalized care to give patients greater levels of satisfaction andconfidence in their lives. Treatments include skin resurfacing and acne treatment through skintightening, chemical peels, medical-grade skin care, light therapy, laser vein treatment, lymphaticmassage, facials and more.

Avanti Skin Center of Boulder2595 Canyon Blvd., Boulder, 303.440.7546, www.avantiboulder.com

BEST TRAVEL AGENCY James TravelPoints1750 14th St., Boulder, 303.442.2340, www.travelpoints.comWith the advent of the Internet, some travel agencies have gone the way of the dinosaur. Butnot James TravelPoints. Founded in 1957, the company is today led by a second generation ofthe James family. President Donald James explains the company’s success: “We’ve developedmany specialty niches, so that one, two or three people here become experts in a particulardestination. They focus all their attention on that destination. For example, we have three peoplewhom we identify as our Mexico experts; people may go online themselves and research Mexicotravel, but then they want to talk with someone who really knows Mexico, so they call us. Wehave three people who do nothing but plan trips to Belize and Costa Rica.” So, name yourpreferred location or type of travel – Russia, Japan, Italy, barge trips in France, cruises and so on– and you’ll find a specialist at James TravelPoints. “We promote those experts on our Web site,”James adds, “and so our marketplace has expanded beyond Boulder – it’s all over the U.S.Someone in New York who wants to go to Costa Rica contacts us. Our number one mission hasbeen customer relationships. That’s the best advertising, and the best way to grow a business.”

Cain Travel3004 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.443.2246, www.caintravel.com

BEST DENTIST Ted Kawulok, D.D.S., P.C., Whole Family Dentistry1400 28th St., Boulder, 303.442.8625Ted Kawulok understands a visit to the dentist’s chair can be an uncomfortable, even frightening experience. He and his six-person team at Whole FamilyDentistry go a long way in taking the displeasure out of dental care. “We want our patients to take an active part in their choices of how they handle theirhealthcare,” Kawulok says. At Whole Family, they offer a comprehensive approach to dental care. That ranges from basic dental hygiene and healthcare toadvanced cosmetics, restoration and dental reconstruction. Whole Family even treats patients who suffer from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.Kawulok and members of his team keep up with the newest trends and technologies in the dental-care world by continuing their own education. And whiledental offices have long been outfitted with stereo equipment so patients can listen to music while having work done, Whole Family Dentistry has recentlybeen working with video eyewear so patients can watch a movie as they receive treatment. That’s high-tech care, for sure, but it always comes with a personaltouch at Whole Family. “We try and personalize the service and take care of our patients in a non-threatening way,” Kawulok says.

Steven Eurich, L D.D.S.1120 W. South Boulder Road, #202, Lafayette, 303.666.4653


BEST SINGLES HANGOUT The Foundry1109 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.447.1803, www.foundryboulder.comThis is definitely a comfort zone for singles. Janaka Ford, one of the three new owners who took over in April, agreedit is “a fun place to be. It’s been around Boulder for 11 years and is an established bar. We have good music, good foodand good late-night entertainment – a regular ’80s night and a DJ on weekends. So, of course, there’s dancing. And it’sthe best rooftop in Boulder.” The owners are remodeling, giving the place a new look – which should debut some timein November or December.

Purple Martini1710 29th St., Boulder, 303.449.1282, www.purplemartini.com

BEST ACTIVIST /COMMUNITYCHAMPION

Jared PolisP.O. Box 4659, Boulder, 303.865.3950, http://jaredpolis.comJared Polis has been a champion of progressive values inBoulder County and in the state. “Boulder County is a verydiverse community,” he says. “I enjoy being involved withnon-profits, like advocacy groups, including environmental,immigrants’ rights organizations,and promoting equal rights.”Former chairman of the stateboard of education, he hasfocused much of his time oneducation. He founded twoinnovative charter schools – theAcademy of Urban Learning, forhomeless youth; and the NewAmerica School, for immigrantsages 16 to 21 to learn English.Recently, he was superintendentof the latter school. “Here, locally,I co-chaired the recent bond initiative [to improve andmodernize aging school facilities in the Boulder Valley SchoolDistrict], and am involved with Impact on Education and theMapleton School Feasibility Study.” Polis serves on numerousboards of directors and has received many awards. Mostrecently, he clinched the Democratic nomination for Congressin Colorado’s Second Congressional District. “This last yearI’ve been running for U.S. Congress, to take my activism torepresent our community,” he says.

Josie HeathThe Community Foundation Serving Boulder County1123 Spruce St., Boulder, 303.442.0436, www.commfound.org

America’s Best Ice Cream!America’s Best Ice Cream!forbestraveler.com

LONGMONT1749 Main StreetNext to Starbucks303-485-8834

DENVER7155 E. HampdenNear New York Deli News303-300-6661

1350 CollegeBoulder, CO 80302(303) 442-4400

3133 28th StreetBoulder, CO 80301(303) 440-6542

BOULDER4760 Baseline RdBoulder, CO 80303(303) 499-4760

www.glacier icecreamglacier icecream .com

ULDER660 B0 Baselluuldelderr, COCO3)3) 499499-4-4

ww

BO476476BouBou(30(3033


BEST PLACE TO ENTERTAIN KIDS

Gateway Fun Park4800 N. 28th St., Boulder, 303.442.4386, www.gatewayfunpark.com“I think we’re unique to Boulder County,” says Dan Wolfson, managing partner. “We’re oneof the few places where families are comfortable bringing kids. It’s a business built on familyentertainment – very safe and wholesome. With the mature trees, it’s shady on summer daysand is comfortable fun.” There’s plenty to keep little athletes entertained – miniature golf, go-kart track, kiddie karts and kiddie land, human maze, batting cages, in-line hockey, an arcadeand a snack bar. And it’s a favorite place for parties. After Nov. 1, 2008, Gateway opens onlyon good-weather weekends – as long as the sun is out, and even if there’s snow. The golfdriving range is open all year, weather permitting, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas andNew Year’s Day.

Pearl Street MallDowntown Boulder (from 700 to 2200 Pearl St., between Spruce and Arapahoe), 303.449.3774www.boulderdowntown.com

BEST NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION

Eco-Cycle5030 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.6634; 140 Martin St., Longmont, 303.772.7300; www.ecocycle.orgThe key to Eco-Cycle’s success is “building community,” says communications director MartiMatsch. “It’s an honor to acknowledge our community partners. Our goal is to make Boulder amodel for zero waste, and we work with our community partners: progressive businesses workingto be models of zero waste, schools who work to build a sustainable future through zero-wasteprograms and practices, zero-waste local governments and leaders who are taking bold measuresto change the way society works, and individuals in the community who adopt practices in theireveryday lives to make Boulder County unique in its dedication to the environment and zerowaste.” Boulder is creating a model for communities around the world, and they are payingattention and asking how to do it themselves, Matsch says.

Humane Society of Boulder County2323 55th St., Boulder, 303.442.4030, www.boulderhumane.org

Ralphie, Sundae,Annie, Whiskers,EmmyLou, Fawkes,Mia, Maggie,Colleen, Karla,Jaunice, Tosh,Jena & Mary Lee

We at PC’s Pantry forDogs and Cats thank youfor your continued support

throughout the years!

CONGRATULATIONSTO ALL OF THEBEST OF BOULDERWINNERS!

THE LIFE OF STYLE.™

EAST OF 28TH BETWEEN ARAPAHOE & WALNUT303.449.1189 | WWW.TWENTYNINTHSTREET.COM


BEST ANTIQUE DEALER

Bedell & Co.767 Pearl St., #A, Boulder, 303.939.9292www.trocadero.com/dianebFor the past 10 years, Diane Bedell has worked hard tobring the best antiques to Boulder County. This verymodest woman has a lot to brag about, but instead hopespeople will come to the shop and see for themselves. Shecarries a little of everything – lamps, furniture, sterling, artglass, rugs, etc. – and a lot of antique jewelry. Her passionfor especially nice pieces has sent her all over the world.The contacts she’s made now help her to bringmerchandise from countries such as France, SouthAmerica and Austria right here to us. And because muchof her inventory is purchased for special occasions, Bedellgoes out of her way to ensure gifts are wrapped andpresented beautifully, using things like old jewelry boxes orgorgeous ribbons. Presentation counts, but at Bedell, sodoes history. “It’s important when you’re buying antiquesthat you know where it came from,” explains Bedell.

The Amazing Garage Sale4919 N. Broadway, Boulder, 303.447.0417www.theamazinggaragesale.com

SHOPPER’S PARADISE

BEST ANTIQUE JEWELRY STORE

Classic Facets Antique Jewelry942 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.938.8851, www.classicfacets.com“We are a one-of-a-kind store,” explains owner Mikki Rainey. “Everything in here is authentic antique jewelry from allover the world. We turn down 99.9 percent of what we’re offered. Shoppers from all over the world come to Boulder tocome here.” Classic Facets started with a box of costume jewelry. Twenty-three years later, it’s an internationally renownedjewelry store with folks calling Rainey to answer questions about pieces they’ve come across. Clearly Classic Facets hascustomer service down pat – they even hire certified gemologists to assist and educate customers. “Education is important;even if they don’t buy from us, they should know what they’re looking at.” Whether you’re looking for an engagement ringor fun costume jewelry (which is tucked away in drawers and separated by color), rest assured you’ll find it at Classic Facets.

Bedell & Co.767 Pearl St., #A, Boulder, 303.939.9292, www.trocadero.com/dianeb

BEST ART GALLERY

Blink Gallery1011 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.447.1011www.blinkgalleryboulder.comSusan Knickle, who co-owns Blink Gallery with PamGonacha, is thrilled to be going into their third yearof business. She feels their success has everything todo with “the fantastic mix of contemporary artiststhat we represent.” The gallery shows a wide varietyof art, from sculpture to painting to jewelry. Knicklesays, “We’re fortunate to show a dynamic selection oflocal and national artists, many of whom are featuredin museums across the country.” The installation artin the windows are a particular point of pride.“Hundreds of people are drawn into the gallerybecause of our displays.” But the people drawn in bythe installations stick around because of the staff. “Westrive to provide the best customer service possible,and to convey to our clients such appreciation fortheir support.”

Art & Soul Gallery1615 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.544.5803,www.artandsoulboulder.com


BEST BEDDING/LINENS/MATTRESS STORE

Verlo Mattress Factory3080 Valmont Road, Boulder, 303.447.1154, www.verlo.comVerlo’s been in business for 50 years and in Boulder for more than 20. The locally ownedcompany prides itself in the quality of its product. Sleep advisor Zach Prybylo says service andcustomer satisfaction are top of mind, which is why “We handcraft every bed to order. Let’s sayyou take it home and sleep on it for a month and aren’t happy ... we can take it back and makeit harder or softer for you. And we can do that because we actually make your bed for you. Youcan’t decide whether a bed’s going to work for you after five minutes on a showroom floor, andwe know that.” The shop also sells bedding, linens and specialized mattress covers, and cancustom order just about anything you’re going to need for a good night’s sleep. And, yes, if youwant a bed shaped like a monkey, Verlo will make it for you. Prybylo said so.

Bed, Bath & Beyond1741 28th St., Boulder, 303.415.0302, www.bedbathandbeyond.com

YOU & MEPACKAGE

SPA SPECTACULAR

SALON SPECIAL

SAVE 50%OFF REGULAR PRICE

AROMATIC SWEDISH

A Spa Treat To Share!Two side-by-side

Swedish Massagesand Spa Pedicures

for two. Enjoy!$200.00

ASpa Day favoritewith a Moon Goddess

Facial aromatic SwedishMassage. Spa Pedicure& Manicure, cateredluncheon included.

$200.00

50% OFFFull Head Highlight

(Reg. $100)

GIFTCERTIFICATEPRINT INSTANTLY ONLINEFINISHINGTOUCHSPA.COM

Offers goodwhen bookwith Ryan,Monica, Shawna, or Ika.

Microdermabrasian Reg. $100Purification Facial Reg. $90Brow & Lip Wax Reg. $30Magic Mud Pedicure Reg. $75

• Bridal Specialists• Makeup Artistry• Voted Best Salon 2007• Experienced Staff• Redken Color Experts

$55 Fri., Sat., Sun.

5 0 M I N . M A S S A G E

$45 Tues.Wed.Thurs.

SPA AHHH!

FINISHING TOUCH SPA313 28th Street • Boulder • 303-449-1852

Winner! Best Spa 2006 Daily Camera

Must bookwith Ika, Shawna, Liz,or Chelsea. Expires 11-15-08

Women’s Cut & Style$25 (Reg. $45)

Men’s Haircut$18 (Reg. $24)

4800 Baseline Rd., Suite #E-108Boulder, CO 80303303.499.3900

1515 Main St., Suite #15Longmont, CO 80501303.776.8748

ThankYou!

Thanks to our PATIENTSfor voting us #1 again in 2008!

Thanks to the STAFF for makingour transition so seamless.


BEST CAMERA STORE Mike s Camera2500 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.443.1715, www.mikescamera.comThis isn’t the first time Mike’s Camera has nabbed the “Best Camera Store”category, and it probably won’t be the last. Focus at Mike’s is put on keeping acutting-edge inventory and ensuring the staff maintains their CertifiedPhotographic Consultant (CPC) status. Mike’s carries gear and accessories for arange of consumers – from amateur to professional – and makes sure that sameconsumer has the information they need about the product they’re buying orrenting. “Comprehensive” might be a good word to describe Mike’s since itdoesn’t just sell cameras; it also carries printers, projectors, editing and lightingequipment, and it has a lab to process anything need processing.

Wolf Camera2520 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.544.9842, www.wolfcamera.com

BEST CHILDREN’S STOREGrandrabbit s Toy Shoppe

2525 Arapahoe Ave., # E65, Boulder, 303.443.0780, www.grtoys.comGrandrabbit’s has been around for 31 years. That’s enough time for kids who ran amok in the shop to nowbring their own little ones in to find treasures of their own. Supervisor Tammi Eyestone believes thesecret behind their success is owner Lynne Milot’s personal touch. “A lot of the stuff that she chooses isstuff that she either gave her kids when they were younger or she’s giving to her grandson now. She likesfinding things that are educational and fun, but not trendy. She’s very picky about what comes in here,very conscious about what she’s going to get for the kids.” In a way, Milot’s playing grandma to everychild that walks into the store. That kind of compassion and forethought will send today’s children backto Grandrabbit’s when they become parents.

Playfair Toys1690 28th St., Boulder, 303.444.7502, www.playfairtoys.com

BEST GREEN PRODUCTS /SERVICES STORE

Eco-Products3640 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.449.1876, www.ecoproducts.comThanks to the folks at Eco-Products, being green is easier than ever. Theaward-winning local company has been around since 1990 and began as asupplier of recycled office paper, printer supplies and janitorial products toFront Range businesses. Steve Savage, who founded the company with hisfather, has grown Eco-Products into a manufacturer and nationalwholesaler of its own line of biodegradable food service containers madefrom sugarcane and corn. The company was the official supplier to theDemocratic National Convention in Denver and has partnered withFolsom Field in its zero-waste initiative. Look for the October grandopening of Ellie’s, its new retail outlet, located next to Sunflower Market.“We’ll have everything for your home but food,” Savage says.

Whole Foods2905 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.545.6611, www.wholefoodsmarket.com


BEST SHOE STORE Pedestrian Shops1425 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.449.52602525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.449.7440www.comfortableshoes.comYou say you want to reduce your carbon footprint? Take a hike! But don’t hit the dusty trail in a sub-par shoe. Stroll intoPedestrian Shops for the best-fitting, most-fashionable footwear you’ve ever stepped into. And in this shop, they talk the walk.“Everyone needs comfortable shoes, but people are looking for fashion, too,” says manager Lauren Polk. Mary Janes are verypopular, as are shearling boots like Uggs. There are pairs and pairs of socks, accessories and a helpful staff to help you findthe right (and the left) shoe for you.

Two Sole Sisters1703 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.442.0404, www.2solesisters.net

BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE

JJWells2460 Canyon Blvd., Boulder, 303.449.2112www.jjwells.comWhat do women want? That’s easy. They want thedresses, blouses, pants, sweaters and accessories at JJWells, the women-owned clothing source for all thingsfashionable. “Many of our customers don’t have a lot oftime to shop,” says co-owner Dana Culbertson, “andservice is very important to them. Every one of our staffis knowledgeable and skilled in helping you find the rightchoices that really work for you.” JJWells offers items inevery price point, selected for wearability, style andcomfort. “We enjoy getting to know our customers,”Culbertson says. “We’ve had the pleasure of knowingsome of them for 20 years.”

Chelsea935 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.447.3760

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING STORE

The Regiment2425 Canyon Blvd., #F, Boulder, 303.443.2713www.theregimentshops.comGary Cartwright of The Regiment is thrilled it has wonBoulder County Gold again. “We always appreciate thesupport here in town.” But it’s earned it. The Regimentopened in 1959, and over the years the staff has workedhard to ensure they have merchandise to fit any clothingneed for any occasion. The shop’s master tailors,knowledgeable staff and commitment to customer serviceare just gravy after you’ve seen the inventory. “We’vealways felt the customer comes first. I know it’s a cliché,but that’s how we’ve always felt. Whatever the customerswants, that’s what we try to get them.”

Weekends1200 Pearl St., #5, Boulder, 303.444.4231www.weekendsboulder.com

BEST BICYCLE SHOP

University Bicycles839 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.4196www.ubikes.comWhat makes University Bicycles so fabulous?General manager Lester Binegar is sure it’s“our good-looking employees. And charm.”After being in business for a quarter of acentury, the shop has amassed a ton of know-how, a monster inventory and a solid rapportwith the community. It even has a museum ofbikes dating back to the late 1800s. “We havethe most employees possible of any shop. Sowe help people when they come in the door.That’s really what it is.”

(TIE)

Performance Bicycle2450 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.444.5044www.performancebike.com

Full Cycle1211 13th St, Boulder, 303.440.7771www.fullcyclebikes.com


BEST FLOOR COVERING STORE FloorCrafters1501 Lee Hill Road, #1, Boulder, 303.449.3084, www.floorcraftersboulder.comPutting your best foot forward is easy on a great hardwood floor. FloorCrafters has been puttingthem down for more 20 years now. “We take real pride in our work. Our employees areconscientious and take personal responsibility for doing a great job, whether it’s a newinstallation or a refinishing project,” says owner Sherri Harrison. With today’s focus on greenhomes, Harrison says, people appreciate that their floors are made with certified, sustainablyharvested wood and finished with water-based finishes.

Atlas Flooring, Inc.4920 28th St., Boulder, 303.442.3221, www.atlasflooring.com

BEST FLORIST AND BEST GARDEN CENTER

Sturtz & Copeland2851 Valmont Road, Boulder, 303.442.6663, www.sturtzandcopeland.comPlants make us feel good. Whether it’s a bouquet of roses on your birthday or a tall stand ofnative grasses along your garden path, plants give us a reason to stop, look and savor the moment.Boulder County shoppers love Sturtz & Copeland’s abundant selection of garden plants, tools,planters, supplies and accessories. “People appreciate our staff ’s local expertise, especially,” saysConnie Smith, Garden Center manager. “We can recommend drought tolerant plants, or plantsthat the deer won’t eat, for instance.” Sarah Cioni, floral department manager, says, “Floralarranging is an art of balance, texture and color. Our nine designers all have art backgrounds andthey bring this training to their work here.” Some designers specialize in orchids, others inJapanese Ikebana or traditional styles. “We buy a lot of our flowers from local growers. We use alot of flowers, and the quick turnover means that the flowers you receive are always fresh.”

FOR BEST FLORIST: European Flower Shop1501 Lee Hill Road, Boulder, 303.442.7802

FOR BEST GARDEN CENTER: McGuckin Hardware2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.443.1822, www.mcguckin.com

A Fresh Approach ToA Memorable Event

www.spiceoflife.com303-443-4049

Current Location:3640 Walnut St. Boulder, CO 80301

303.952.1004 • www.elliesecohomestore.comFlagship store opening this fall:

2525 Arapahoe, Boulder, CO 80302 (Village Shopping Center)

ellie’s ECO HOME STORE is the one-stop for healthy sustainable, recycled,and environmentally preferable products for the family and home. Fromrecycled PET carpet and low-VOC paint to organic pillows and non-toxiccleaners; ellie’s makes living an environmentally sustainable life easier byoffer affordable prices and having a knowledgeable staff ready to help.

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BOULDER’S“BEST GREEN PRODUCTS/SERVICES STORE!”

Eco-Products introduces ellie’s ECO HOME STORE


BEST BOOKSTORE Boulder Book Store1107 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.447.2074, www.boulderbookstore.booksense.comThe Boulder Book Store has been catering to the tastes of the neighborhood for morethan 35 years now. Inventory manager Arsen Kashkashian believes that’s the key tothe store’s success. “We respond to what the community’s interested in, whether it’sinteresting fiction or politics ... and we want the store to be a place to discuss variousissues, so we work really hard with publishers to bring in speakers that are importantto this community.” The building – more than 100 years old – with its ballroomupstairs and the tin roof on the main floor instantly conveys a feeling of warmth andwelcome, something you also get from the knowledgeable staff. And of course, afteryou’ve wrested yourself from the cozy corner where you found the perfect book,there’s the mind-blowing array of chocolates up front – further proof that theBoulder Book Store’s catering to your tastes.

Barnes & Noble Booksellers2915 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.442.1665, www.barnesandnoble.com

BEST ART SUPPLY & HOBBY STORE Art Hardware1135 Broadway St., #1, Boulder, 303.444.3063, www.arthardware.comSince 1974, Art Hardware has expanded its fine art department again and again, catering to theneeds of local artists, whether they’re beginners or old hands, painters or architects. Because thequality of the supplies it carries is so high, Art Hardware ships inventory all over the United States.But the staff appreciates the touchy-feely aspect of creation, so testing different paints beforepurchase is a luxury we locals have. Working to get special items such as Grahm walnut oil paints,which are handmade in Oregon, Art Hardware’s inventory is mind-boggling. But don’t be afraid –the staff is happy to guide you, should you find yourself unsure of what you need to make that latestidea come to fruition. And once you’re finished, the custom framing department can make sure itlooks perfect on the wall.

Michaels4800 Baseline Road, #A108, Boulder, 303.494.2008, www.michaels.com

BEST HARDWARE STOREMcGuckin Hardware

2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.443.1822, www.mcguckin.comMcGuckin Hardware is our perennial favorite for just about everything you need foryour home, in every shape and size. The selection is incredible and the friendly staffin their green vests are always ready to help you find exactly what you came in for(and more). “We really appreciate our customers and don’t take our awards forgranted,” says Randy Barker, marketing manager. “We go to several buyers’ showseach year; we are constantly changing our inventory to meet people’s needs.” Lookfor even more green products to make your life easier, Barker says, plus energy-savingitems like LED lighting, solar outdoor accent lights, even solar-powered attic fans foreasy installation. McGuckin also has an extensive pet department with high-qualityfoods and all the accessories you need.

Home Depot1600 29th St., Boulder, 303.449.4221, www.homedepot.com


BEST HOMEFURNISHINGS STORE

HW Home1941 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.545.0320FlatIron Crossing Mall, Broomfield, 720.887.1223www.hwhome.comBoulder County shoppers love featheringtheir nests with fine home furnishings fromHW Home. Every employee has a designbackground and has been through HWHome’s exclusive training program. “Weoffer a free, complete in-home designconsultation,” manager Bev WernerNeedham says. “We will help you find thebedding, art, window coverings, furnishingsand accessories to make a home truly yours.”Platform beds and sectionals are popularright now, and you’ll find quite a selection ofthese as well as an exciting line of creativelighting, to show off your new furnishings inthe best light.

Bartlett Interiors2020 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.442.5194

BEST EYE CARE STORE

Aspen Eyewear2525 Arapahoe Ave., Suite E-23, Boulder, 303.447.0210www.aspeneyewear.comIt’s easy to see why we like Aspen Eyewear so much.Active, outdoor lifestyles can be tough on your eyes – andthey deserve some TLC. It starts with a professional eyeexam, of course. Then perhaps a pair of prescriptionsunglasses or prescription ski goggles. If you’re the indoorstype, don’t miss the huge selection of frames in all of thepopular styles. “People are looking for more stylisheyewear,” says manager Jen Ebner. “Retro styles from the’50s and ’60s are really popular, and anything with a bit offlash.” What’s behind the success at family-owned AspenEyewear? “We have the best customers and the bestemployees,” Ebner says.

Wink Optical3301 30th St., Boulder, 303.443.4311, www.winkoptical.net

BEST GIFT SHOP (TIE)

Jacque Michelle2670 Broadway, Boulder, 303.786.7628Owner Jacque Michelle has assembleda first-rate collection of fashionable,casual women’s clothing, gift items,greeting cards and art just perfect forgift-giving – if you can bear to partwith your treasures. Customers returnagain and again, and with each visit,they find new items that tempt andenchant. From a one-of-a-kind piece ofjewelry to a signature sweater, expect tofind unique gifts that you’ll be excitedto give, and even more excited toreceive. Jacque Michelle makes gift-giving fun!

Paper Doll1141 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.449.1661Is gift-giving giving you the fits? It’stime to visit Paper Doll, where you willfind an amazing variety of imaginativegifts, from retro collectibles andjewelry to artful items for the homethat will make even your hard-to-pleasers smile. “The perfect gift,” saysowner Troy Rivington, “is one thatbrings joy, makes you laugh or feelsentimental.” There’s a great selectionof stuff for kids (of all ages) here, too.Need a card to go with that perfectgift? There’s a wall full, for everyspecial person and event. Wrappingpaper? Paper Doll has you covered.

Blue Skies Gifts1110 Pearl St., Boulder, 3030.440.3304,www.blueskiesboulder.com

BEST GROCERY STORE

Whole Foods2905 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.545.6611www.wholefoodsmarket.comWe have a passion for food, and we want the best. That’swhy Whole Foods is our favorite store for quality produce,free-range meats, organic foods and specialty items youwon’t find anywhere else. “We have strong relationshipswith local producers, which guarantees the freshest foodsand helps reduce our carbon footprint,” says LauraLarson, marketing specialist. The astonishing varieties ofartisan specialty foods – like teas, coffee, cheeses andchocolates – make each visit a treat. Look for the WholeTrade guarantee on many items, your assurance that theselections in your shopping cart have been harvested andcreated following sustainable best practices.

Sunflower Market2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.449.0777www.sfmarkets.com


BEST JEWELRY STORE AND BEST COMPANY/STORETHAT GIVES BACK TO THE COMMUNITY

Walters & Hogsett Fine Jewelers2425 Canyon Blvd., Boulder, 303.449.2626, www.waltersandhogsett.comServing Boulder since 1980, family-owned Walters & Hogsett Fine Jewelers is the place localstrust with grandma’s jewels. “Rather than making customers, we try to build relationships,” saysowner B.J. Viergg. While it has logged nearly three decades in the jewelry business, Walters &Hogsett is determined to stay abreast of industry trends and continue to help customers navigatethe changing world of diamonds and fine jewelry. “As new things come on board technologically,we get on board with what’s cutting edge,” says Viergg, who notes Hearts on Fire diamonds aretoday’s hottest-selling diamonds. “We have great trust relationships and we try to create a funshopping experience.” An expert gemological staff and highly trained sales team adds to thequality customers sense the moment they enter the Water Street complex store. In addition toassisting a loyal customer base, Walters & Hogsett gives to roughly three dozen charities, whichis why it’s no surprise they also took home this year’s top award for giving back to the community.

FOR BEST JEWELRY STORE:

Hurdle s Jewelry1402 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.443.1084, www.hurdlesjewelry.com

FOR BEST COMPANY/STORE THAT GIVES BACK TO THE COMMUNITY:

Whole Foods2905 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.545.66112584 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.499.76361651 Broadway St., Boulder, 303.442.09091275 Alpine, Boulder, 303.443.1354www.wholefoodsmarket.com

BEST LIQUOR STORE

Liquor Mart1750 15th St., Boulder, 303.449.3374, www.liquormart.comLiquor Mart has a little something for every palate.With a large selection of fine wines and champagnes toeveryday beers and microbrews, there are pours to suitany occasion, whether it’s a simple dinner party or aholiday extravaganza. Organic and biodynamic winesare among the store’s top sellers right now, according toowner Jack Stoakes, and Liquor Mart is stocking animpressive assortment of these eco-hip drinks. What’seven better? Liquor Mart is now open on Sundays foryour shopping convenience. And if you can’t make it tothis liquor warehouse in person, simply buy online.“We have a new Web site with a whiz-bang shoppingcart,” jokes Stoakes.

Bottles2540 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.444.8500,www.boulderbottles.com

FIRST CHOICE


BEST PET STORE/BAKERY/DELIAND BEST LOCALLY OWNED STORE

P.C. s Pantry for Dogsand Cats2600 30th St., Boulder, 303.245.9909, www.pcspantry.comP.C.’s Pantry has gone to the dogs – and cats. “We are doingit for the animals,” says owner Mary Lee Withers, who in2000 started the store for fun when she wasn’t ready to retire.“We’ll never drive a Mercedes. We actually enjoy it. We likehelping people.” Boulder pet owners recognize just that,naming P.C.’s the best pet and locally owned store this year.Loyal customers return for the in-house bakery’s famous“barkday” cakes and homemade biscuits, as well asknowledgeable advice from longtime staff members. P.C.’sservice extends beyond the doors of the inviting 30th Streetstore, which houses two cats and five dogs on a typical day.Withers donates to a number of local animal rescue groups,including paying medical bills for trapped feral cats. This yearwas especially significant at P.C.’s: the store’s namesake catdied in February, making the mission of this little pet storethat could even more meaningful. “He was the perfect cat,”Withers says with the fondness of a true animal lover.

FOR BEST PET STORE/BAKERY/DELI:PetSmart2982 Iris Ave., Boulder, 303.939.9033402 Center Drive, Superior, 303.543.60601125 S. Hover Road, Longmont, 303.702.9526www.petsmart.com

FOR BEST LOCALLY OWNED STORE:McGuckin Hardware2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.443.1822, www.mcguckin.com

BEST IMPORTED GOODS STORE Cost Plus World Market1685 28th St., Boulder, 303.938.0757, www.worldmarket.comThanks to Cost Plus World Market we can all experience a global bazaar sans plane flight. While imported gourmet fare– from Italian olives to German sausages – is among the store’s most popular buys, Cost Plus is also known for one-of-a-kind entertaining and gift items representing the far corners of the world. “People in Boulder travel a lot and they likethe stuff they find from Europe and Asia,” says general manager Carley Williams. One little-known section of the marketis the rug wall, which includes exclusive handmade pieces from small vendors. The store is also sourcing moreenvironmentally friendly goods, from certified organic items to sustainable plantation-grown wood furniture. Cost PlusWorld Market’s successful niche is offering exceptionally unique merchandise at chain-store prices.

Indochine2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.444.7734; 1779 Valtec Lane, Boulder, 720.565.8262; www.homeimport.com

Fixed Right,guaranteedBoulder County Gold Winnerfor “Best AC/ Heating Service”

6 Years in a Row!

303.442.0154www.precisionplumbing.com


BEST HOUSEWARES & KITCHEN GOODS STORE

Peppercorn1235 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.449.5847, www.peppercorn.comPeppercorn is to adults like a candy store is to kids. Featuring truly eclectic, distinct pieces for thekitchen, bath, bedroom and dining room, browser’s paradise Peppercorn is one of Pearl Street’sjewels. Whether it’s fine china or linens, cookbooks or cutlery, customers enjoy searching for itin this beautifully appointed, 12,000-square-foot, multi-level store. And if the items jam-packedinto themed rooms are still too overwhelming, a knowledgeable staff can lead you directly to theperfect percolating tea pot or ideal, no-one-else-will-get-it wedding gift. You just have to ask.

McGuckin Hardware2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.443.1822, www.mcguckin.com

THANK YOU BOULDERFOR VOTING

JIMMY & DREW’S DELICATESSENBEST TAKE-OUT FOOD

2007 & 2008ESQUIREMAGAZINE RECOGNIZES AS ONE OF THE

BEST SANDWICHES IN AMERICA


BEST PLACE TO BUY WINDOW TREATMENTS

Innovative Openings1672 30th St., Boulder, 303.449.6465, www.innovativeopenings.comA window is just a piece of glass – until you dress it up. And that’s what Innovative Openingsspecializes in: making the ordinary window something special. This year the locally ownedbusiness has gone back to its roots as an energy company by offering more green products, suchas coverings made from recycled materials or green-certified for indoor air quality. InnovativeOpenings is among a small group of businesses that still offer a free in-home consultation fordraperies, shutters, blinds, awnings and solar screen shades. “Our sales people are not oncommission, so they are driven by selling the customer the right product,” says sales managerAleece Briggs. “We have lots of expertise and we’re big believers in function first, especially inColorado.” The company performs all measuring and installation, and takes full responsibilityfor everything from pricing quotes through warranties.

Cloth Constructions2087 30th St., Boulder, 303.449.2102, www.clothconstructions.com

BEST SPORTING GOODS STOREAND BEST OUTDOOR RECREATION STORE

Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI)1789 28th St., Boulder. 303.583.9970, www.rei.comIt may be a chain, but REI’s commitment to community and consciousliving makes it independently inviting to Boulder County’s massivecontingent of outdoor enthusiasts. Not only does the store stock a vastcollection of outdoor wear and gear, from camping to climbing supplies,it’s also housed in a green-built facility and focuses on educationaloutreach through its popular community room. Customer servicefollows suit. “We hire people who are passionate about the outdoors andwe have a superlative training program,” says manager Jim Neville.“They spend a month training before they even come on the floor.”Perhaps the company’s biggest claim to fame is its try-it-before-you-buy-it policy. “We’re a scratch, touch, sniff and feel kind of company,” saysNeville. “We want you to ride the bike and sleep in the sleeping bag –and we offer a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee.”

FOR BEST SPORTING GOODS STORE:Dick s Sporting Goods210 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont, 303.682.5740

FOR BEST OUTDOOR RECREATION STORE:Neptune Mountaineering633 South Broadway, Suite A, Boulder, 303.499.8866,www.neptunemountaineering.com

BEST RECYCLED GOODS / THRIFT STORE

Hospice Care & Share Thrift Shop5290 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.604.5353, www.hospicecareonline.org“Thrift store” doesn’t do this upscale resale shop justice. “We have incredible prices andvery high-quality merchandise,” says assistant manager Victoria Keen. “We’re veryparticular about what we put out.” Furniture, boutique clothing, sporting goods,activewear and collectibles are some of the store’s top sellers. A thoughtful children’s sectionand immaculate book nook are also part of the themed layout. With just three years inbusiness, the thrift shop has become a crucial fundraising branch of the 30-year-oldHospicecare of Boulder & Broomfield Counties, a private, nonprofit agency dedicated toimproving end-of-life care. Ninety volunteers complement a small paid staff to makeHospice Care & Share Thrift Shop a successful nonprofit as well as an inexpensiveshopping alternative for Boulder’s diverse community.

Savers695 South Broadway, Boulder, 303.499.6978, www.savers.com

BEST PLACE TO BUY MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

H.B. Woodsong s2920 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.449.0516, www.hbwoodsongs.comMusic is personal. Just like the instruments used to make it. So when it comesto choosing a guitar, banjo or mandolin, music lovers turn to the friendly,knowledgeable staff at locally owned H.B. Woodsong’s, a Boulder institutionsince the 1970s. While the store specializes in acoustic guitars, it also stocksa variety of string instruments and electric guitars, as well as songbooks andyouth band and orchestra rentals. “Boulder is an incredibly diverse andintelligent group of people with a huge contingent of singer/songwriters, bothamateur and professional,” says manager Rick Mattingly. “We can’t beeverything to every person, but we try to do our best to cater to a very diversemusical community.” The staff knows most customers by name – just onemore personal touch that makes H.B. Woodsong’s a comfy place to scratchthat musical itch.

Robb s Music2691 20th St., Boulder, 303.443.8448, www.robbsmusic.com


BEST RUNNING STORE

Boulder Running Company2775 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.786.9255, www.boulderrunningcompany.comBoulder Running Company is not only considered the best running store in the county, but italso ranks among the most prestigious in the country. Owned and managed by high-profileformer professional runners, this finely tuned business serves both the amateur and elite athlete.The store offers a special video gate analysis to help runners find an ideal shoe fit, as well as awide selection of clothing and accessories ranging from high-tech Garmin watches to casualaprès-run pieces from clothiers such as Horny Toad. “Today we have much greater diversity inthe shoes we carry,” says owner Aaron Bouplon. “We can solve everyone’s needs. We even haveseveral shoes that will fit a foot shaped like a box.” From free Women’s Nights with topics likefinding the right sports bra, to a running series benefiting Orphans of Aids, Boulder RunningCompany also does its share to give back to the community that has made it famous.

Fleet Feet2624 Broadway, Boulder, 303.939.8000, www.fleetfeetboulder.com

THEQUALITY YOU EXPECTTHE SERVICE YOUDESERVE

• Full Service Dry Cleaning,

Laundry &Alteration

• Environmentally Safe

GreenEarth Cleaning

• Friendly & Knowledgeable Staff

• Six Convenient Locations

• Free Pick-Up&Delivery Service

• Boulder’s Finest Since 1921

303.447.8700

Official Dry Cleaner for the CU Band, Cheerleaders & Chip

Award winning organic Artisan Breads & Rolls

• •


BEST VIDEO STORE The Video Station1661 28th St., Boulder, 303.440.4448, www.thevideostation.comCan you think of a more congenial way to spend a Saturday night than hunkering down onyour comfy couch with a great movie from The Video Station and – can heaven be far away?– a pint of Glacier Home Made Ice Cream from The Video Station’s freezer case? ThisDVD/video emporium has an unusually great selection of movies for rent – more than 50,000titles, including documentaries, foreign films, cult classics, rare and hard-to-find films,television shows, Anime, experimental and short films, music performances, Westerns ... youname it. There’s also a large selection of movies for sale. Video Station hires people who knowfilms, who are passionate about them and can not only offer suggestions, but discuss theintricate aspects of films from many different genres. This place is an amazing resource for filmbuffs and just plain movie lovers.

Blockbuster4800 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.494.84192400 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder. 303.413.09523135 28th St., Boulder, 303.413.07501610 Pace St., Longmont, 303.772.0653965 Hover St., Longmont, 303.651.12931751 N. Hover Road, Longmont, 303.651.1343976 Dillon Road, Louisville, 720.890.78281335 South Boulder Road, Louisville, 303.665.05503333 Arapahoe Ave., Erie, 303.926.42001691 E. Coalton Road, Superior, 303.554.1300www.blockbuster.com

BEST PLACE TO BUY WINDOWS

Champion Windows, Siding & Patio Rooms877.221.0770 or 303.499.7800, www.championwindow.comChampion Windows knows how Coloradans live. Designed and manufactured in Denver withextra precaution against seal failure in Colorado’s harsh climate and elevated altitude, thesewindows are built to suit living at a mile high and above. In fact, more than 40,000 people alongthe Front Range are using Champion windows. Whether they buy windows from this nationalcompany for its custom Colorado design, energy-efficient options or free lifetime warranty onmaterials and installation, locals have made Boulder County Champion’s No. 1 growth area thisyear. “Other people are just window dealers,” says division manager Steve Lambert. “We built it,install it and stand behind it.”

Renewal by Andersen800.595.1967, www.renewalbyandersen.com

Call us or visit our website303.665.6683www.MovingConnection.com

courteous dependable experienced professional

Thank You Boulder for Your SupportOver the Last 20 Years!

SmilesComprehensive and Cosmetic Dentistry

AniaDr.

Creating

BeautifulNaturally

esComprehensive and Cosmetic Dentistry

esesuut u

Creatingur y


BEST SHOPPING DESTINATION

Pearl Street MallDowntown Boulder(from 700 to 2200 Pearl St., between Spruce and Arapahoe)303.449.3774, www.boulderdowntown.comPearl Street is the heart of Boulder. It’s no wonder people from all overthe state and beyond come to this original main street to sample avariety of stores and eateries that give this city a charm all its own. Infact, 85 percent of businesses on Pearl Street are locally owned andoperated – like Hurdle’s Jewelry since 1947 and Pedestrian Shops since1971. In addition to finding Boulder’s pulse – and some pretty eclecticgifts – shoppers are treated to an outdoor music series, streetperformances, al fresco dining and, in the spring, some 15,000breathtaking tulips imported from Holland. One of Pearl Street’s latestofferings is a 160-business gift card program – the perfect present and agreat way to give back to the local economy, says Terri Takata-Smith,director of marketing and communications.

Twenty Ninth StreetCanyon Boulevard and 28th Street, Boulder, 303.449.1189www.twentyninth.com

BEST TREE NURSERY The Tree Farm11868 Mineral Road (Hwy 52), Longmont, 303.652.2961, www.thetreefarmlongmont.comIt is not going out on a limb to say that The Tree Farm, which opened in 1980, knows its business. With 35 acresof shade, fruit and flowering trees from which to choose, the choices seem infinite. But the staff will help you findthe right plant for the right place. “We’re successful because of selection and service. If it grows in this climate,we carry it,” says manager Mike Gittleson. “If you need help with landscape design, delivery and installation ofplants, our knowledgeable and friendly staff will work within your budget to help you find the best choices foryour project.” Many of the staff have been there for more than 10 years, and some 20-plus years. They knowtheir trees ... and shrubs, perennials, vines and ground covers, which you’ll also find at The Tree Farm.

CreekSide Tree Nursery3283 61st St., Boulder, 303.668.7647, www.creeksideboulder.com

We’rehonoredtobeBoulder’spreferred funeral provider

Thank you for yourtrust


EATS, DRINKS & ENTERTAINMENT

BEST AMERICAN RESTAURANTThe KitchenRU: Turley’s

BEST ASIAN RESTAURANTChez Thuy

RU: Moongate Asian Bistro

BEST BAKERYBreadworks Cafe

RU: Spruce Confections

BEST BARWest End Tavern

RU (TIE):Mountain SunConor O’Neill’s

BEST BARBECUEKT s Barbecue

RU: Daddy Bruce’s Bar-B-Que

BEST BURRITOIllegal Pete sRU: Chipotle

BEST CATERERA Spice of Life

RU: Dish Gourmet

BEST COFFEEHOUSEVic s

RU: Starbucks

BEST DELICafe Food

RU: Jimmy & Drew’s Delicatessen

BEST HAPPY HOURAND BEST OUTDOOR DINING

AND BEST APPETIZERSMediterranean Restaurant (The Med)RU for Best Happy Hour: Boulder Cafe

RU for Best Outdoor Dining: Chautauqua Dining HallRU for Best Appetizers: Aji Restaurant

BEST HIBACHI CUISINEAi Sushi & Steak

RU: Benihana

BEST ICE CREAM / FROZEN YOGURTGlacier Home Made Ice Cream & Gelato

RU: Ben & Jerry’s

BEST INDIAN RESTAURANTTaj Mahal III

RU: Tandoori Grill

BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANTAND BEST PLACE FOR A ROMANTIC DINNER

Carelli s of Boulder Ristorante ItalianoRU for Best Italian Restaurant:

Laudisio Ristorante ItalianoRU for Best Place for a Romantic Dinner:

Flagstaff House Restaurant

BEST LATE-NIGHT RESTAURANTCosmo s Pizza

RU: International House of Pancakes (IHOP)

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT AND BESTLAFAYETTE/LOUISVILLE/SUPERIOR/ERIE RESTAURANT

Efrain s MexicanRU for Best Mexican Restaurant:Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant

RU for Best Lafayette/Louisville/Superior/Erie Restaurant:The Huckleberry Restaurant, Bakery and Tea Room

BEST NEW RESTAURANTCantina Laredo

RU: Radda Trattoria

BEST PIZZAAbo s Pizza

RU: Proto’s Pizza

BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANTJax Fish House

RU: Dolan’s Restaurant

BEST SUSHIHapa Sushi

RU: Sushi Zanmai

BEST TAKE-OUT FOODJimmy & Drew s Delicatessen

RU: Noodles & Co.

BEST VEGETARIAN RESTAURANTSunflower

RU: Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant

BEST GUNBARREL/NIWOT RESTAURANTColterra

RU: Treppeda’s Italian Ristorante

BEST LONGMONT/LYONS RESTAURANTOskar Blues Cajun Grill & Brewery

RU: The Pumphouse Restaurant & Brewery

BEST BREAKFAST AND BEST BRUNCHLucile s Creole Cafe

RU for Best Breakfast: The Buff RestaurantRU for Best Brunch: Greenbriar Inn

BEST PLACE FOR TEADushanbe Tea HouseRU: Pekoe Sip House

BEST DESSERTCheesecake Factory

RU: Glacier Home Made Ice Cream & Gelato

BEST RESTAURANT SERVICEFlagstaff House Restaurant

RU: Frasca Food & Wine

BEST RESTAURANT TO BRING KIDSRed Robin Gourmet Burgers & Spirits

RU: McDonald’s

BEST PLACE TO HEAR LIVE MUSICFox TheatreRU: Nissi’s

BEST THEATER PERFORMANCEBoulder s Dinner Theatre

RU: Colorado Shakespeare Festival

BEST BOULDER COUNTY EVENTBoulder Creek Festival

RU: Bolder Boulder

SERVICES, FACES & PLACES

BEST AC/HEATING SERVICEPrecision Plumbing & Heating

RU: Meyer’s Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.

BEST AUTO DEALERFisher Chevrolet Honda Pontiac

RU: FlatIrons Acura Subaru

BEST AUTO REPAIR SHOP/SERVICE DEPT.Hoshi Motors

RU: Super-Rupair

BEST OIL CHANGEGrease Monkey

RU: Jiffy Lube

BEST CAR WASHPuddle Touch-Free Car WashRU: Black Diamond Car Wash

BEST CARPET CLEANING SERVICENesheim Cleaning Services, Inc.

RU: Chem-Dry of Boulder

BEST CHILD CARE CENTERYWCA Children s Alley

RU: Take-a-Break

BEST DAY CAMPYMCA Fun in the Sun

RU: Rocky Mountain Day Camp

BEST DENTISTTed Kawulok, D.D.S., P.C., Whole Family Dentistry

RU: Steven Eurich, L D.D.S.

BEST DRY CLEANER/LAUNDROMATArt Cleaners

RU: John’s Cleaners

BEST FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONAND BEST LOCAL EMPLOYER

Boulder Valley Credit UnionRU for Best Financial Institution: Elevations Credit Union

RU for Best Local Employer: Boulder Community Hospital

BEST HAIR SALONFix Hair SalonRU: The Parlour

BEST HEARING AID CENTERHearing HealthCare Centers

RU: Boulder Valley Hearing & Speech Center

BEST HOLISTIC CARE/WELLNESS CENTERWellness Center at Frasier Meadows

RU: Pharmaca Integrative Pharmacy

BEST FUNERAL HOME SERVICE PROVIDERCrist Mortuary & Crematory

RU: Howe Mortuary

BEST INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICE/STUDIOMcGuckin Design Center

RU: Bartlett Interiors

BEST KARATE/MARTIAL ARTS STUDIOTran s Martial Arts & Fitness Center

RU: Way of the Crane

BEST LASIK/LASER EYE FACILITY/SURGEONInSight Lasik

RU: Beyer Laser Center

BEST MEDICAL FACILITYBoulder Community Hospital

RU: Boulder Medical Center

BEST MOVING COMPANYTaylor Moving & Storage

RU: The Moving Connection

BEST VETERINARIANBroadway Animal Hospital

RU: Arapahoe Animal Hospital

BEST PET BOARDING SERVICECottonwood Kennels

RU: Broadway Animal Hospital

BEST PET GROOMING SERVICEThe Hydrant

RU: Broadway Animal Hospital

BEST PLACE TO WORK OUT24 Hour Fitness

RU: RallySport Health and Fitness Club

BEST PILATES/YOGA CENTERCorePower Yoga

RU: Yoga Pod

BEST TANNING SALONTans To Go

RU: VerandaSun

BEST PLACE FOR WORSHIPUnity of Boulder

RU: Flatirons Community Church

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENTKaren Bernardi, Bernardi Real Estate Group at Coldwell BankerRU: Josette Montgomery, Coldwell Banker - Richards/Montgomery

Group

BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY/OFFICEWright-Kingdom Real Estate

RU: RE/MAX of Boulder

BEST RETIREMENT/ALTERNATIVEOR ELDER CARE/ASSISTED LIVING

The AcademyRU: Frasier Meadows Retirement Community

BEST LOCAL SCHOOLBoulder High School

RU: Fairview High School

BEST TEACHERStacey Mandel, Alicia Sanchez Elementary School

RU: Doug London, Alexander Dawson School

BEST SPAEssentiels Spa

RU: St. Julien Hotel & Spa

BEST SKINCARE FACILITYLaser & Cosmetic Associates of Boulder

RU: Avanti Skin Center of Boulder

BEST STORAGE FACILITYBoulder Bins Self Storage

RU: U Store It

BEST TRAVEL AGENCYJames TravelPoints

RU: Cain Travel

BEST SINGLES HANGOUTThe Foundry

RU: Purple Martini

BEST PLACE TO ENTERTAIN KIDSGateway Fun Park

RU: Pearl Street Mall

BEST NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONEco-Cycle

RU: Humane Society of Boulder County

BEST ACTIVIST/COMMUNITY CHAMPIONJared Polis

RU: Josie Heath(The Community Foundation Serving Boulder County)

SHOPPER’S PARADISE

BEST ANTIQUE DEALERBedell & Co.

RU: The Amazing Garage Sale

BEST ANTIQUE JEWELRY STOREClassic Facets Antique Jewelry

RU: Bedell & Co.

BEST ART GALLERYBlink Gallery

RU: Art & Soul Gallery

BEST ART SUPPLY & HOBBY STOREArt HardwareRU: Michaels

BEST BEDDING/LINENS/MATTRESS STOREVerlo Mattress FactoryRU: Bed, Bath & Beyond

BEST BICYCLE SHOPUniversity Bicycles

RU (TIE):Performance Bicycle

Full Cycle

BEST BOOKSTOREBoulder Book Store

RU: Barnes & Noble Booksellers

BEST CHILDREN’S STOREGrandrabbit s Toy Shoppe

RU: Playfair Toys

BEST CAMERA STOREMike s Camera

RU: Wolf Camera

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING STOREThe RegimentRU: Weekends

BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING STOREJJWells

RU: Chelsea

BEST SHOE STOREPedestrian Shops

RU: Two Sole Sisters

BEST EYE CARE STOREAspen EyewearRU: Wink Optical

BEST FLOOR COVERING STOREFloorCrafters

RU: Atlas Flooring, Inc.

BEST FLORISTAND BEST GARDEN CENTER

Sturtz & CopelandRU for Best Florist: European Flower Shop

RU for Best Garden Center: McGuckin Hardware

BEST GIFT SHOP (TIE)Jacque Michelle

Paper DollRU: Blue Skies Gifts

BEST GREEN PRODUCTS/SERVICES STOREEco-Products

RU: Whole Foods

BEST GROCERY STOREWhole Foods

RU: Sunflower Market

BEST HARDWARE STOREMcGuckin Hardware

RU: Home Depot

BEST HOME FURNISHINGS STOREHW Home

RU: Bartlett Interiors

BEST HOUSEWARES & KITCHEN GOODS STOREPeppercorn

RU: McGuckin Hardware

BEST IMPORTED GOODS STORECost Plus World Market

RU: Indochine

BEST JEWELRY STOREAND BEST BEST COMPANY/STORE

THAT GIVES BACK TO THE COMMUNITYWalters & Hogsett Fine Jewelers

RU for Best Jewelry Store: Hurdle’s JewelryRU for Best Company/Store That Gives Back to the Community:

Whole Foods

BEST LIQUOR STORELiquor MartRU: Bottles

BEST PLACE TO BUY MUSICAL INSTRUMENTSH.B. Woodsong sRU: Robb’s Music

BEST PET STORE/BAKERY/DELIAND BEST LOCALLY OWNED STORE

P.C. s Pantry for Dogs and CatsRU for Best Pet Store/Bakery/Deli: PetSmart

RU for Best Locally Owned Store: McGuckin Hardware

BEST RECYCLED GOODS/THRIFT STOREHospice Care & Share Thrift Shop

RU: Savers

BEST RUNNING STOREBoulder Running Company

RU: Fleet Feet

BEST SPORTING GOODS STOREAND BEST OUTDOOR RECREATION STORE

Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI)RU for Best Sporting Goods Store:

Dick’s Sporting GoodsRU for Best Outdoor Recreation Store:

Neptune Mountaineering

BEST PLACE TO BUY WINDOWSChampion Windows, Siding & Patio Rooms

RU: Renewal By Andersen

BEST PLACE TO BUY WINDOW TREATMENTSInnovative Openings

RU: Cloth Constructions

BEST SHOPPING DESTINATIONPearl Street Mall

RU: Twenty Ninth Street

BEST TREE NURSERYThe Tree Farm

RU: Creekside Tree Nursery

BEST VIDEO STOREThe Video StationRU: Blockbuster

2008 Boulder County GOLD PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS Winners


+ $45 delivery & set-up* + FREE 1 year Comfort Guarantee

Hours: Sat. 9-6, Sun. 11-5, Mon.-Fri. 9-8 • 1-800-224-VERLO • www.verlo.com

Here at the Verlo Mattress Factory Stores, we know all about what goes into a

mattress because we make them! Our craftsmen are experts in the fi eld and use

only the highest quality materials. We invite you to come in and visit us. One of our

craftsmen can help explain the different types of mattresses and help you to fi nd

the safest, healthiest, most comfortable sleep set for you!

What’s in a Mattress?Air? Memory Foam? Innerspring? Natural Materials? Latex?

Twin: $1599

Full: $1849

Queen: $1899

King: $2499

Twin: $1249

Full: $1449

Queen: $1639

King: $1999

Natural wool and cotton on premium latex core.

Harmony

Twin: $1499

Full: $1699

Queen: $1799

King: $1999

Exclusive IntraTouch Sleep Technology and world‘s fi nest materials.

Ultra

Twin: $798

Full: $898

Queen: $958

King: $1158

Over 1200 coils for unbelievable support & comfort.

50th Anniversary X-Factor

Family Owned & Operated

SLEEP GREAT TONIGHT!

* All prices include mattress & boxspring

Visit our new location at 715 South Main St. Longmont, CO

Best value in the industry!

Boulder 3080 Valmont St.

(Just east of 30th Street)(303) 447-1154

Voted Best of Boulder 9 Years in a row 1999-2007!

If you suèr from contacts, glasses and blurry TV screens, Dr. Craig Beyer wants to help you start this footballseason by throwing them all away. Complete your all-laser LASIK at Beyer Laser Center before October 31,2008 and Colorado’s most experienced LASIK surgeon will give you a free HDTV.*



• Complete your all-laser LASIK beforeOctober 31, 2008 and you can look forward to brand new vision and abrand new Flat Panel HDTV.

Get High Definition Vision and a Free High Definition TV.Schedule your LASIK Evalua_on now so you can complete your high-def LASIK by October 31, 2008 and get a FREE HDTV too!



www.bouldereyes.com

• Blade-Free iLASIK technology• Allegre]o Wave Eye-Q Laser forimproved night vision

• No-Interest Financing Op_onsfor 2 years




Beyer Laser Center is an o^cial partner of CU Athle_cs

*Terms and condi_ons apply. Oèr can not be combined with any otheroèrs. Oèr apply’s to bilateral procedure’s only.

Documents

Boulder County Gold 2008