People’s Choice Awards2010 Boulder County Gold

Eats • Drinks • Entertainment • Services • Faces • Places • Shopping

People’s Choice Awards

The 2010 Boulder County Gold People’s Choice Awards results are in. In the followingpages you will find some of Boulder’s finest restaurants, retail stores, service providers,entertainment venues, people and all that makes Boulder County great.

The awards and recognition are results voted on by the people of Boulder County who useand know them the most. With so many fine choices the competition was tough. There aresome repeat winners and some brand new honors. This year’s recipients and runners up are asfine as ever.

Browse through the following pages and keep this guide handy as thousands of locals told uswhy Boulder County is such a great place to live, shop, eat, work and play.

We thank everyone who took the time to vote. Now turn the page and read about the winners!

2010 Boulder County Gold

SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 1C A M E R A

Writers: L.L. Charles, Mark Collins, Judy Finman,

Julie Kailus, Lulu Tupper • Photographer: Jonathan Castner

Data Entry & Verification: Boulder Staffing

Research Contributor: Joan Beckett • Designer & Editor: Greg Stone

Boulder County Gold is a marketing feature of your Camera. Copyright 2010.For advertising information, call your consultant or 303.473.1400.

Look up Boulder County Gold winners throughout the year at BoulderCountyGold.com.To subscribe to the Daily Camera, call 303.444.3444 or visit DailyCamera.com.

Contents3-17 EATS, DRINKS & ENTERTAINMENT

18-33 SERVICES, FACES & PLACES

34-51 SHOPPER’S PARADISE

52 LIST OF WINNERS & RUNNERS-UP

Contributors:

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2 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

Eats, Drinks and EntertainmentBEST ALL YOU CAN EAT AND BEST SUSHI

Japango1136 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.938.0330, www.boulderjapango.com

You can never have enough sushi, right? The fresh ingredients, intense flavors and complextextures are irresistible, perhaps even habit-forming. For those with an insatiable appetite forraw fish and limited funds to bankroll such cravings – and there are many of us here inBoulder County – there is Japango, home of outstanding traditional and contemporaryJapanese cuisine as well as all you can eat sushi every Tuesday from 5 to 10 p.m. “It is bustling,I think is the proper word for it,” laughs Japango’s general manager Alex Bruckman.“Everything is moving at a lightning pace, and people are having fun.” For $29.95, Tuesdaynight patrons have access to unlimited appetizers and entrees. Don’t limit your Japango intaketo Tuesdays though. The Pearl Street Mall mainstay has specials all week, including a dailyhappy hour from 5 to 6:30 p.m. that features $2.50 hand rolls and $2 Kirin and sake bombs,among other things. Not in the mood for beer or sake? Try one of the exotic beverages onJapango’s new cocktail list. “My personal favorite is the Serrano Splash,” says Bruckman,describing a house-crafted concoction with serrano pepper-infused Absolut, St. Germain,lemon-lime, agave nectar and fresh basil. “It’s so good. You can’t stop drinking it.” The samecan be said of the sushi, which is as delicious as it is innovative. Wrap it all in a livelyatmosphere with attentive staff and it’s easy to understand why Japango is nothing short ofbustling every night of the week.

FOR BEST ALL YOU CAN EATThe Taj2630 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.494.5216, www.tajcolorado.com

FOR BEST SUSHIHapa Sushi1117 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.473.4730; 1220 Pennsylvania Ave., Boulder, 303.447.9883www.hapasushi.com

SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 3C A M E R A

BEST DESSERT

The Cheesecake Factory1401 Pearl Street, Boulder, 303.546.0222, www.thecheesecakefactory.com

With so much competition, what does it take to merit the Best Dessert award? GeneralManager Steve Treacy believes that variety and consistency make the winning combination.With 35 scrumptious choices, the number-one, best-selling customer favorite at this templeof treats is [drum roll, please] Stefanie’s Ultimate Red Velvet Cake Cheesecake: two layersof cheesecake and two layers of Red Velvet (chocolate) cake, topped with cream cheesefrosting and finished with white chocolate. “And we take good care of the guests,” Treacyadds. “Whether you come in with a group of two or 20, everyone can find somethingon the menu. We try to be kid-friendly and treat kids as the guests they are.” In a recentdrive, the Cheesecake Factory chain donated to Feeding America, a domestic hunger-relieforganization, 25 cents for every slice of cake sold in its restaurants. “Every year we do cannedfood and peanut butter drives for Feeding America, and we involve the local schools,”Treacy says.

Glacier Home Made Ice Cream & Gelato

3133 28th St., Boulder, 303.440.65424760 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.499.47601350 College Ave., Boulder, 303.442.44001749 Main St., Longmont, 303.485.8831387 South Boulder Road, Louisville, 720.890.5992www.glacierhomemadeicecream.com

BEST COFFEEHOUSE

Vic’s2680 Broadway, Boulder, 303.440.8209; 3305 30th St., Boulder, 303.440.29181800 Broadway, Boulder, 303.938.6886; 4770 Table Mesa Drive, Boulder, 303.494.1884801 Main St., Louisville, 303.666.1402; 700 Tenacity Drive, Longmont, 303.485.6791600 South Airport Road, Longmont, 303.834.8447

It’s not just the coffee, dark roasted and brewed fresh. It’s more than the locally bakedpastries, muffins and scones. It’s the atmosphere, the art on the walls, the way the sun hitsyour favorite table. It’s getting a knowing smirk from the barista after you’ve establishedyourself as a regular. It’s watching an on-the-fly bike repair in the parking lot. It’s overhearinga conversation about chakra alignment in one ear and an argument for fiscal conservatism inthe other. It’s petting a dog on the way in and waving to a friend as you head out the door. It’sall this and more – plus free Wi-Fi – that make Vic’s feel like home every morning.

Starbucks

1427 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.245.9368; 1402 Broadway, Boulder, 303.442.9199; 2770 Pearl St.,Boulder, 303.449.1881; 1810 29th St., Boulder, 303.449.0815; 2400 Baseline Road, Boulder,303.494.5109; 3033 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.440.5090; 459 McCaslin Blvd., Louisville,303.926.1568; 2800 Rock Creek Circle, Superior, 303.494.5673; 3336 Arapahoe Ave., Erie;303.665.5322; 535 West South Boulder Road, Lafayette, 303.604.6289; 1087 South HoverRoad, Longmont, 303.774.0143; 1100 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont, 303.774.9028; 1749 MainSt., Longmont, 303.772.0475; 815 East 17th Ave., Longmont, 720.494.9794; 2318 17th Ave.,Longmont, 303.651.5683; www.starbucks.com

BEST SEAFOOD

Jax Fish House928 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.1811www.jaxfishhouseboulder.com

In a region historically more associated with steak than salmon, providing the best fresh seafood is no small feat. The secret is getting the fish from port to plate in the shortest time possible.“We take a lot of pride in providing the freshest seafood,” says general manager Adam Derr. “We are very fortunate to have fishmongers that are dedicated to delivering consistent quality,quickly. Our fish is packed in ice immediately by our suppliers and flown in daily. With Denver being a hub in the West, there’s really never any downtime.” Start with an appetizer or two,like the Griddled Blue Crab Cakes or Venus Clams – or enjoy your choice of several varieties of the freshest oysters, served Rockefeller style or simply on the half shell. Seasonal entréefavorites include Pan Roasted Halibut, Seared Ahi Tuna and Grilled Wild Salmon, or if your timing is right, treat yourself to fresh Alaskan King Crab, which has a very limited season. Entreesare complemented with innovative sides like roasted poblano cornmeal cake, cucumber and grape gazpacho, or salt-roasted potatoes. Jax supports environmentally conscious fisheries andpurveyors who harvest their catch legally, in sustainable waters. For the best in sophisticated but uncomplicated seafood, we again choose Jax Fish House as the best in Boulder County.

Red Lobster2177 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont, 303.485.9898; 299 E. Flatiron Crossing Drive, Broomfield, 303.460.8100

BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANTANDBEST PLACE FOR A ROMANTIC DINNER

Carelli’s of Boulder Ristorante Italiano645 30th St., Boulder, 303.938.9300, www.carellis.com

For a Boulder restaurant to celebrate two decades in business, you know it’s doing thingsright. As a frequent winner of the Best Italian Restaurant honors, Carelli’s of Boulder doesit all to perfection. What’s the key ingredient in their recipe for success? “It’s really about allthe hard work and perseverance, to provide a consistently good experience for our guests,”says owner Greg Carelli, who trained as a chef in his father’s restaurant in Chicago. “Wehave fresh fish specials every night for variety, and we maintain a core menu that does notchange, because a lot of our diners keep coming back for their favorites. We feature thebest dishes from both Northern and Southern Italy to give guests a range of choices, fromthe risottos and sauces to lighter preparations in olive oil.” An extensive gluten-free menu isvery popular, as is the well-chosen wine list to complement any entrée. The romance ofItaly and its cuisine sets the stage for a romantic dining experience, too. “Our décor isstunning,” Carelli says. Open flame firepits on the expanded patio and in the dining roomadd real visual excitement, as the flames highlight the warm cherry and birch woods andthe copper accents. Live jazz on Thursdays and Saturdays provides a perfect soundtrack fora romantic tête-à-tête. In their two decades of serving Boulder County, you can be sure thatCarelli’s of Boulder has seen more than a few marriage proposals happen over fresh crepesand champagne. “We are a very popular ‘first date’ restaurant. Couples come here everyyear to celebrate their first romantic dinner together.” Are you feeling the love yet? We are,and we love Carelli’s of Boulder.

BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT: Laudisio Italian Restaurant1710 29th St., Ste. 1076, Boulder, 303.442.1300, www.laudisio.com

BEST PLACE FOR A ROMANTIC DINNER: Flagstaff House1138 Flagstaff Road, Boulder, 303.442.4640, www.flagstaffhouse.com

4 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT

Chez Thuy Vietnamese Restaurant2655 28th St., Boulder, 303.442.1700, www.chezthuy.com

“Love. I just put a lot of love in the food.” This is how Thuy Le accounts for the popularityof her eclectic Vietnamese restaurant, a familiar Boulder destination since 1993. “I makecreations, try something new, not all the traditional dishes,” she says. Actually, she takestraditional Asian dishes – borrowing from Chinese and Thai cuisine, too – and puts herown signature on them. “I took a lot of traditional dishes and Westernized them.” Forinstance, she adds shrimp to the beef typically stuffed in grape leaves. And stuffed tofu,served in Vietnam with tomato sauce, can be ordered with one of her creations – black beanor coconut sauce. Pad Thai is not like the Thai version; she concocted her own sauce. Hersesame tofu differs from the Chinese version; it is fried once rather than twice. It all addsup to original, delectable cuisine. “It’s like painting a picture. If it’s not happy enough, let’sput some red in it.” To keep the food consistently up to her standards, she shows the otherchefs how she wants the cooking done. “You can have another cook use too much garlic orlemongrass. I can’t let the food change so much over time that it loses its flavor.”

BLACK PEPPER PHO VIETNAMESE NOODLES & BAR

2770 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.440.1948, www.blackpepperpho.com

BEST BREAKFAST AND BEST BRUNCH

Lucile’s Creole Cafe2124 14th St., Boulder, 303.442.4743; 518 Kimbark St., Longmont, 303.774.9814www.luciles.com

When I moved to Colorado from the South, I bemoaned the lack of a proper biscuit.Then I ate at Lucile’s and realized that what I used to consider biscuits were actuallyhockey pucks compared to the enormously rich, enormously buttery and just plainenormous biscuits I found here. They are phenomenal as is, but go ahead and addsome homemade jam or savory sausage gravy and see what you think. It’s no wonderthat Lucile’s has so many adoring fans. “We get some people that come in every otherday or at least once a week,” confirms Rose Fuller, the head host at Lucile’s in Boulder.Those who frequent the restaurant are diverse in age, palate, even geography. “Manyof our regulars are regular tourists,” Fuller explains. “They come once a year to droptheir kids off at school or the like … they make it a point to come here on their travels.”Lucile’s has been serving up Creole cuisine to rave reviews since 1980. The menu ispopulated with long-standing favorites such as Eggs New Orleans (fried eggplant sliceswith creole sauce, poached eggs and hollandaise) and the decadent New Orleans PralineWaffle (pecan batter waffle topped with pecans, fruit and fresh whipped cream). Dailyspecials are also par for the course, and typically feature organic vegetables grown on therestaurant’s very own farm in Niwot. It doesn’t get any fresher, more local or deliciousthan Lucile’s. Amble in for a memorable breakfast, lunch or brunch seven days a week.And don’t forget to fully appreciate your biscuit.

BEST BREAKFAST:Walnut Café3073 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.447.2315; 673 S. Broadway, Boulder720.304.8118, www.walnutcafe.com

BEST BRUNCH:Brasserie Ten Ten1011 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.998.1010, www.brasserietenten.com

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SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 5C A M E R A

BEST LAFAYETTE/LOUISVILLE/SUPERIOR/ERIE RESTAURANT

The Empire Lounge and Restaurant816 Main St., Louisville, 303.665.2521, www.theempirerestaurant.com

This friendly, popular neighborhood eatery has the bona fides of culinary greatness: Owner/chef JimCohen was named by Julia Child one of "eleven best chefs in America." The reason for the restaurants’acclaim, Cohen says, is that “We have such a wonderful customer base. Louisville has received us very well(the restaurant opened in January 2008). We are a community meeting place for people to gather. We tryto serve great food and drinks in an unpretentious manner.” The menu is grill-based, thanks to a mesquitewood grill. Dishes are seasonal; the menu changes every month or month and a half. “We use local productsas much as possible – from the Farmers’ Market in Louisville, Red Wagon [Organic] Farm in the summer.We use Meyer’s meats, with no antibiotics or hormones. The concept for us is a ‘neighborhood joint’ – butwhere the food is really great. We offer the welcomeness of being part of a neighborhood.” Empire’s mostpopular dishes are burgers, tuna burgers, calamari salad and macaroni and cheese. Kids are welcome, andthere’s a kids’ menu. Coal miner’s mac and cheese, made with aged cheddar, parmesan, and pancetta isa heartier version of the old staple. House-made pastries change with the seasons: Summer’s strawberryshortcake has given way to an autumn temptation.

EFRAIN’S MEXICAN101 E. Cleveland St., Lafayette • 303.666.7544, Efrain’s II: 1630 63rd St., Boulder • 303.440.4045Efrain’s III: 451 S. Pratt Pkwy., Longmont • 720.494.0777

BEST RESTAURANT TO BRING KIDS

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers2580 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.442.0320, 2331 Clover Basin Drive, Longmont, 720.652.9229, www.redrobin.com

Got any frisky offspring who can’t sit still in a restaurant? This place welcomes them. They’ll relate to the kids-centric menu, withthose oh-so-popular chicken fingers, mac and cheese, spaghetti and pizza, and more than two-dozen gourmet burger choices to delighteven the grownups in the family. Keep ‘em busy with crayons and coloring pages. They get to hold (or pop) balloons and to pet therestaurant’s oversized mascot, a friendly employee decked out in a non-threatening red robin costume. Sheri Deaguero, general managerof the Longmont restaurant, is reassuring that “the wait staff treats each guest as an individual, and that includes each kid.” One of thecompany’s core values is “Having Fun,” just what kids of all ages can do at a Red Robin restaurant.

Southern Sun Pub and Brewery 627 S. Broadway St., Boulder, 303.543.0886, www.mountainsunpub.com

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6 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST GUNBARREL/NIWOT RESTAURANT

Colterra Food & Wine210 Franklin St., Niwot, 303.652.0777, www.colterra.com

Colterra Owner/Executive Chef Bradford Heap received classic European training fromculinary legends like Alain Ducasse, Georges Blanc and Carlo Cioni. The prestigious JamesBeard Foundation honored Heap with the coveted position of guest chef at the James BeardHouse and nominated him as the "Best Chef of the Southwest." Heap’s ability to createsimple clean flavors from ultra-fresh local produce (much of it from Colterra’s own gardens)has earned him a loyal following. Colterra’s menu favors ingredients in season, naturally raisedhormone- and antibiotic-free meats, and sustainably harvested fish from around the world.The cuisine is inspired by the flavors of Southern France and Northern Italy, accompaniedby a substantial wine list. General Manager Wade Sawaya says, “The key is consistency – withour food and the staff overall. People come and see the same faces and eat the same greatfood. We serve locally grown food from our own gardens and neighboring farms. Colterrameans to cultivate the earth.”

Treppeda’s Italian Ristorante

300 2nd Avenue Niwot, 303-652-1606 • www.treppedas.com

BEST OUTDOOR DINING AND BEST APPETIZERSAND BEST HAPPY HOUR

Mediterranean Restaurant (The Med)1002 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.444.5335, www.themedboulder.com

In a city that has elevated outdoor living to an art, we know what’s up when it comes to alfresco anything - and we again choose The Med’s patio for the best place to dine in the greatoutdoors. The enclosed, open-to-the-sky patio with sun-splashed walls, colorful flowers andmarket umbrellas makes you feel like you’ve been transported to the Mediterranean for a lazyrepast with a friend. You’ll linger, and love it.

No visit to The Med is complete without ordering a few tapas, those tempting small platesloaded with Capaccio (thin-sliced peppered beef with Dijon, caper and egg salad), Cevichewith avocado, four types of Hummus, or wood-fired margherita pizza. “I think the reasonpeople think we have the best appetizers is because of the variety that we offer and the waywe change things up,” says Rob Kukura, general manager. “There’s something for everybody;we have vegan tapas, vegetarian and gluten free choices, too.”

For some people, happy hour is about the drinks. For others, it’s about the food. But whenThe Med’s clock strikes “Happy”, everyone wins. That’s because every day from 3 to 6:30 pm,all appetizers are half off, along with great drink specials from the bar. You can always orderfrom the full menu and everything is available for takeout, too. Thank you, MediterraneanRestaurant, for more than seventeen years of good food and good times!

BEST OUTDOOR DINING:Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant (The Rio)1101 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.444.3690www.riograndemexican.com

BEST APPETIZERS AND BEST HAPPY HOUR:Brasserie Ten Ten1011 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.998.1010, www.brasserietenten.com

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BEST VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT

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

Lenny Martinelli opened Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant to offer non-meat eaters distinctive and interesting dishes. “Now 50 percent of our customers are not vegetarians,” he says. “Theycome because our food is good. Omnivores come in and eat our food and walk out saying ‘Wow.’ Leaf is our sixth restaurant, and they all have a vegetarian component.” His othereateries are well known to locals: Aji, Boulder Dushanbe Tea House, Huckleberry Restaurant in Louisville, Naropa Café, and Zucca Italian Kitchen in Louisville. “We are the onlyvegetarian restaurant in Boulder. I think enough people know about us, know that the food is really good, and different.” Some favorites are vegetable Wellington, jerk tempeh withcoconut plantain sauce, and for dessert, vegan carrot cake and lemon ginger creme brulee. Besides Chef Jason Connelly and managing partner Gerry Manning – who puts together the listof organic, biodynamic, and sustainably grown wines – Sara Martinelli is “the tea queen” for the restaurants. Diners enjoy organic beer and smoothies, too, and a good selection of veganfood. “We are introducing at least three raw courses,” Martinelli says. Leaf and its sister restaurants share in the ownership of a local organic farm. “At the 63rd Street Farm, our produceis grown organically and biodynamically, and we are able to be involved in the agricultural process every step of the way. We can ensure the quality of our produce by working hand-in-hand with our farmers to determine which crops to plant, and we carefully craft our menus to coincide with the natural harvest periods.”

Elephant Hut Thai Grill

2500 30th St., Suite 101, Boulder, 303.991.1899, www.elephanthut.com

BEST BARBECUE

The Rib House1801 13th St., Boulder, 303.442.RIBS; 1920 S. Coffman St.,Longmont, 303.485.6988; www.theribhouse.com

Barbecue is a touchy subject. Depending on where yougrew up, it can mean pulled pork doused in vinegar andpepper sauce, chicken dripping with sweet marinade, dryrubbed ribs or any number of other flavor combinations.We all think our version is the “right” one. Arguments andcook-offs ensue. In the midst of all this controversy standsThe Rib House, a Kansas City-style barbecue joint thatleaves no opportunity for squabbling because everyone’smouth is too full of chef Tracy’s famous illegal ribs. Slowcooked to perfection, so tender that the meat is falling offthe bone and served with your choice of four warm sauceson the side, these baby back ribs are relentlessly delicious.The Rib House is home to a wide range of hickory smokeddelights – sausage, brisket, turkey, chicken and ham – as wellas lip-smacking sides like okra, spicy BBQ beans, coleslaw,two kinds of potato salad, red skinned mashed potatoes,fries and a can’t-miss cheesy corn bake. Enjoy your orderin-house with a cold beer or get it to go so you can share itwith other reformed barbecue connoisseurs..

KT’s Barbecue

2675 13th St., Boulder, 303.442.3717, 7464 Arapahoe Ave.,Boulder, 303.786.7608, www.ktsbbq.com

BEST BAR

The West End Tavern926 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.3535, www.thewestendtavern.com

If you’re looking for one of the best seats in Boulder, head toThe West End Tavern’s rooftop deck. The inside of the tavernis not too shabby either, featuring a massive antique wooden barand some of the most knowledgeable, friendly barkeeps in thebusiness. The West End Tavern has been a Boulder tradition formore than 20 years, offering down-home cuisine crafted by chef-owner Chris Blackwood and a famously extensive selection ofbourbon, beer and handcrafted cocktails. “Bourbon is really thetrue American spirit,” explains general manager Mike Lawinski.The West End houses more than 60 varieties, five of which aresingle barrel bourbons that were personally selected for the barand therefore can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Thebeer selection is equally impressive. “We have 22 beers pouringoff tap right now, and probably less than a handful can be foundanywhere else in Boulder County,” says Lawinski, who alsorecommends the bar’s bomber program and Brew Bus. If youneed a break from bourbon and brew, try one of The West End’ssignature cocktails, like the French Mojito that mixes freshlymuddled strawberry, mint and lime with lavender simple syrup,Grey Goose vodka and Champagne.

The Bitter Bar

835 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.442.3050www.happynoodlehouse.com

8 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST HAMBURGERLarkburger

2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.444.1487, www.larkburger.com

To try a larkburger is to love Larkburger. After only a year and a half in Boulder, therestaurant has generated an enthusiastic following with its Black Angus ground beef, turkey,tuna and portabella mushroom burgers, hand cut fries (tossed with parmesan cheese andtruffle oil if you like, oh my) and Five Dollar Shakes that are well worth the investment.“Boulder is a really vibrant community, a really big small town,” enthuses Larkburgerpresident Adam Baker. “When people embrace something, they embrace it wholeheartedly,and that’s been a big part of our success.” Everything at Larkburger is natural, from menuingredients to packaging to the reclaimed timber that lines the walls. It uses efficiency-ratedappliances and its canola oil is recycled into bio-diesel fuel. This philosophy of minimizingenvironmental impact while maximizing gastronomic pleasure has understandably resonatedwith our community. Baker is quick to return the love. “We’d like to express our gratitude toBoulder. The city’s been really good to us.”

Rueben’s Burger Bistro

1800 Broadway, Boulder, 303.443.5000, www.ruebensburgerbistro.com

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READERS’ CHOICE!

SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 9C A M E R A

BEST ICE CREAM/FROZEN YOGURT

Glacier Home Made Ice Cream & Gelato3133 28th St., Boulder, 303.440.6542; 4760 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.499.4760; 1350 College Ave., Boulder, 303.442.4400;1387 South Boulder Road, Louisville, 720.890.5992; 1749 Main St., Longmont, 303.485.8834; www.glacierhomemadeicecream.com

Glacier has been hand mixing fresh fruit and nuts, homemade chocolate and fudge, delectable spice combinations and loads more all-natural ingredients to make the best ice cream inAmerica since 2001. More than 800 flavors have been created to date, with new ones rolling out about every two weeks. “We always do new flavors,” says owner Mark Mallen with a laugh,citing ice cream makers, employees and customer suggestions as the most typical sources for flavor ideas. His current favorites are sea salt dulce de leche gelato and raspberry chocolateice cream, but the fresh Colorado peach and apricot sorbets seem to be the most popular with patrons. Glacier has recently expanded its operations, opening new stores in Louisville andColorado Springs. Mallen credits his crew for the growth: “My staff is fantastic. They’re the reason for our success … they’ve helped create an inviting and fun environment. I’ve also gotgreat ice cream makers that work really hard and have put in a lot of extra effort this year because we’ve been so busy.” The dedication shows in every cone, cup and shake.

Cold Stone Creamery

2412 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.440.8915; 1087 South Hover Road, Longmont, 303.682.5680; www.coldstonecreamery.com

BEST BAKERYBreadworks Bakery & Café

2644 Broadway, Boulder, 303.444.5667, www.breadworks.net

Breadworks Bakery & Café owner Larry Domnitz can’t say enough about executive chef Colleen Doran, whoserésumé includes Chez Panisse, the Culinary Institute of America and running haute cuisine kitchens from Minnesotato Seattle. “To have someone with her pedigree at a little neighborhood bakery and café – it’s really a luxury,”raves Domnitz. “And she’s here because we like to work together.” You can hear the smile in his voice. Doran ismore than just a partner in business; she’s also his wife. Breadworks has been a labor of love since it opened onValentine’s Day in 1995. Sharing a mutual passion for food and community, Domnitz and Doran have built a loyalfollowing around their artisan breads, gourmet pastries and homemade soups, salads, sandwiches, paninis, pizzasand savory breakfast and lunch entrees. Breadworks uses only the freshest, high quality ingredients, including 100percent certified organic flour. You can taste the difference – and the love – in everything from the brioche to thespecial order cakes. Now that the construction on Broadway is finally winding down, there’s no reason not to stopinto Breadworks multiple times a day. Grab a cranberry orange scone for breakfast and a smoky bacon and cheddarpanini for lunch. Then swing by on the way home for a crusty baguette to have with dinner.

Spruce Confections

767 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.449.6773; 4684 Broadway, Boulder, 303.449.5819

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10 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST RESTAURANT SERVICE

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

The key to world-class service is making people feel comfortable. That’s what wins awardsfor great restaurants like Frasca. “It’s all about basics,” says Master Sommelier and co-ownerBobby Stuckey. “Every day we work on the basics, on making people feel comfortable. Wework on small details over and over every day.” The seasoned and professional staff ensuresa memorable evening with their meticulous attention to detail, expert wine pairing, andextensive knowledge of the menu. Stuckey notes, “My wife, the chef and I are here everynight. We’re not a chain. We show up every night–it’s very important to us.” Frasca is thecreation of Stuckey and Chef Lachlan Mackinnon-Patterson. Their shared passion for Friuli-Venezia Giulian cuisine and fine wine is reflected in beautifully prepared fare and a wine listboasting over 200 varieties. The pastoral and elegant dining room evokes the gracious andfriendly atmosphere of traditional Italian frascas – neighborhood restaurants that embodyhospitality. “Our basic premise is to be humble and empathetic to our guests. We work veryhard on knowledge and education with the staff. It comes down to basics – treating people asif they’re coming to our home.”

Flagstaff House Restaurant1138 Flagstaff Road, Boulder, 303.442.4640, www.flagstaffhouse.com

BEST LONGMONT/LYONS RESTAURANT

Oskar Blues Brewery303 Main St., Lyons, 303.823.6685,1555 S. Hover St., Longmont, 303.485.9400, www.oskarblues.com

“People come for the overall warm feelings of the restaurants – the awesome blues,great food, and friendly people,” says General Manager Chris Portillo. “They come forthe Cajun-inspired cuisine, like jambalaya , and shrimp and grits. And, of course, we’reall about the beer – Dale’s Pale Ale, Gordon and Gubna. And music – we’ve got greatshows and blues downstairs in Lyons, and upstairs in Longmont.” Oskar Blues’ newdown-home beer joint, which opened in Longmont in October 2009, celebrates beerculture with 43 craft taps, Southern-inspired BBQ & soul-saving live music. “This isan authentic craft beer bar right down to the keg-based fountains,” says owner DaleKatechis. An in-house smoker stoked with local apple wood turns out slow-smokedNorth Carolina style BBQ pork. Both Oskar Blues locations offer an intimate, 100-person capacity room that gets you up close to the musicians. Expect everything fromblues, rock, bluegrass and jam music to folk, Americana, trad-country along with localand national touring acts. No wonder Rolling Stone Magazine called it the hottest placeto be on a Saturday night in Colorado.

SUGARBEET101 Pratt Street, Longmont, 303.651.3330, www.sugarbeetrestaurant.com

BEST DELI

Salvaggio’s Delicatessen2609 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.938.1981, 1397 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.545.68001107 13th St., Boulder, 303.448.1200

Salvaggio’s runs a brisk catering business and serves breakfast sandwiches. But it’s the line outthe door every lunch hour that paints the most accurate picture of this Boulder favorite. JohnSalvaggio brought his East Coast sandwich sensibility with him when he moved here fromBoston. Think hot pastrami, thinly sliced steak, mortadella, Genoa salami, beef bologna androasted red peppers. Salvaggio’s is the real deal. Bread is made from scratch daily. The meatsand cheeses are Boar’s Head’s finest. Crisp vegetables and house-made sides and dessertsenhance the experience. The portions are generous. And the atmosphere is pure Boulderwith a Boston twist (ordering anything but American cheese on your steak sandwich isstrongly discouraged).

Snarf’s2128 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.7766, 1087 14th St., Boulder, 303.444.7714,5340 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.444.3404, 645 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont, 303.774.1441www.eatsnarfs.com

BEST TAKE-OUT FOOD (TIE)

Snarf’s2128 Pearl Street, Boulder, 303.444.7766, 5340 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.444.3404,1087 14th Street, Boulder, 303.444.7714, 645 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont 303.774.1441www.eatsnarfs.com

Who has the time to cook anymore? Thankfully, there is a Snarf ’s near you, ready to serveup a traditional toasted sandwich (like the Ham & American Cheese, BLT and FrenchDip) made to your order. Or try one of Snarf ’s specialty sandwiches, like the Prime Rib &Provolone, Smoked Brisket with BBQ, Eggplant Parmesan, or the Portabello & Provolone.Choose from five entrée salads or just get a small tossed salad to go with your masterpiecesandwich. There’s a kids’ menu for the Snarflettes, too. Chelsea Pohl, manager at Snarf ’son The Hill, says that almost a third of their business is takeout. What’s the biggest takeoutorder she’s seen? That would be the hungry sorority that spent over $300 on a huge sandwichfeast. “Everything is available to go, and all our containers are recyclable. We are PACEcertified here – we even compost,” Pohl says.

BEST TAKE-OUT FOOD Chez Thuy2655 28th St., Boulder, 303.442.1700, www.chezthuy.com

BEST THAI Elephant Hut Thai Grill2500 30th St. #101, Boulder, 303.284.0308, www.elephanthut.com

BEST TAKE-OUT FOOD (TIE) AND BEST THAI

Khow Thai Café1600 Broadway St, Boulder, CO 80302-6219, 303.447.0273, www.khow-thai.com

Khow Thai Café reclaims top honors this year as the Best Thai restaurant in Boulder County.Owners Toi and Larry Newman started the little restaurant eight years ago, endured thereconstruction on Broadway, and have slowly built a fan base of hungry diners who cravethe Green Curry with Rice, the sweet peanut-y Pad Thai, or the Pad Kee Mow – spicy flatnoodles with fresh garlic, peppers, basil leaves and more. “People appreciate the consistentlygood food they get here,” Larry Newman says. “We cook just about every dish when it’sordered, so everything is fresh, and it’s served quickly.” Start with an appetizer or two, maybethe Spring Rolls with Shrimp and a Spicy Green Papaya Salad. Then choose your entrée fromthe huge menu of curries, noodle and rice dishes and stir fries. You’ll like the price, too. Theaverage dinner item is just over 10 dollars. As you can imagine, Khow Thai can get prettybusy sometimes and an empty table doesn’t last long. Many long-time customers just call intheir order for takeout and skip the table jockeying altogether. “Everything on the menu isavailable for takeout, and you won’t have to wait long,” Newman says.

SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 11C A M E R A

BEST AMERICAN RESTAURANT

The Kitchen1039 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.544.5973, www.thekitchencafe.com

The Kitchen has received numerous national awards from such big names as Zagat, Fodor’sand Wine Spectator since it opened in 2004. Chef-proprietors Hugo Matheson and KimbalMusk appreciate the recognition, but their focus is decidedly local, taking pride in servingcommunity produced, seasonal ingredients. The menu changes daily, based on deliveries fromarea farmers and ranchers. Meals are exquisite in their simplicity, allowing the full flavors ofthe farm to shine. So whether you are tucking in to a roast duck, heirloom tomato salad, pan-seared rainbow trout, overflowing charcuterie board or hand-rolled chocolate croissant at TheKitchen, you’ll know the origins of your food. Though you might be too distracted by theintermingling of atmosphere and taste to notice.

(TIE)

Turley’s2805 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.442.2800, www.turleysrestaurant.com

Boulder ChopHouse & Tavern921 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.443.1188, www.chophouse.com

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12 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST CATERER

A Spice of Life5541 Central Ave., Suite 272, Boulder, 303.443.40495706 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.444.3452; www.aspiceoflife.com

Established in 1987, A Spice of Life isn’t just an award-winning caterer, the companyexemplifies what it means to cater. Co-owners David Rubin and Dan Bruckner take pridein exceeding expectations, whether they are serving an intimate dinner for 20, a familypicnic for 150, a corporate lunch for 500 or a wedding reception with a cast of thousands.Thorough preparation, innovative presentation and experienced staff are standard forevery job. The company can spice up your location or host your gathering at its spaciousevent center. And the food sings. Raspberries stuffed with Boursin, foie gras tartlets,herb-seared salmon and Moroccan chicken are just a few of the offerings. Clients aren’t theonly ones who benefit from A Spice of Life. The company frequently holds fundraisersfor local non-profits to bolster our community. It also has an eye on the planet. A Spice ofLife embraces Eco-Cycle’s zero waste standards and has recycled and composted 33,970pounds of materials in the first half of this year alone.

Dish Gourmet 1918 Pearl St., Boulder, 720.565.5933, www.dishgourmet.com

BEST PIZZA

Abo’s Pizza2761 Iris Ave., Boulder, 303.443.1921, 1110 13th St., Boulder, 303.443.3199, 637 S. Broadway St., Boulder, 303.494.1274, 720 Austin Ave., Erie, 303.828.9777, 1834 Main St., Longmont,

303.678.0111, 1355 South Boulder Road, Louisville, 303.604.9896, 7960 Niwot Road, Niwot, 303.652.0830, 502 Center Drive, Superior, 720.304.6000, www.abospizza.com

What does a boxing legend have to do with Boulder County’s favorite pizza? Well, back when Abo’s founder Steve Abo was learning the craft of Neopolitan-style pizza making in New York,he apprenticed in a restaurant owned by Rocky Graziano. Then he brought his pizza mojo out West and when he opened the first Abo’s store on The Hill in 1977, Abo fashioned his propri-etary sauce on the The Rock’s family recipe. The dough is made daily, formulated for the classic Neopolitan thin-but-pliable crust, rustically bubbly with chewy cheese that stays on the pie.Fresh comes first at Abo’s. Everything is prepared daily, so whichever pie you choose is going to be tasty. Order off the menu or customize your pizza to your heart’s and stomach’s content.Why is Abo’s better? “Definitely, it’s the ingredients!” says Charles Sarni, a manager at the Broadway store in Boulder. “The dough is fresher, and the sauce is some of the best I’ve tasted. AndI’m from New York, I know the difference.” The ovens start up at around 10 am and before lunchtime, hungry Abo-ites start coming in for a four-dollar slice (a meal in itself) or just give inand order a whole pie.

Proto’s Pizza

4670 Broadway St., Boulder, 720.565.1050, 600 S. Airport Rd. #B, Longmont, 303.485.5000, 489 US-287 #160, Lafayette, 303.661.3030, 8001 Arista Pl., Broomfield, 303.466.2112

BEST MEXICAN 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, 720.494.0777, www.efrainsrestaurant.com

Ask George Gomez, owner of Efrain’s Mexican restaurant, what style he specializes in andhe says laughingly, “REAL traditional Mexican food! Everything is fresh. We start cooking inthe kitchen at 6 a.m., every day. I learned cooking from my mom; she is the best cook in theworld, I think.” The original Efrain’s in Lafayette opened over two decades ago. Gomez hadworked in other people’s restaurant, and pretty soon he decided that he wanted to start hisown. Since then, Efrain’s has developed a loyal fan base who keep coming back for thechimichangas, for the mole and the chili verde. Tan delicioso! A second store opened inBoulder eight years ago, followed by the Longmont location in 2007. “My sister and brothermanage the newer restaurants. Altogether we have about 100 employees.” Then Gomez letsus in on a secret. He’ll be opening another Lafayette restaurant very soon – one that servesbreakfast. Huevos Rancheros, here we come!

Agave Mexico Bistro & Tequila House

2845 28th Street, Boulder, 303.444.2922, www.agavecolorado.com

3080 Valmont St. Boulder • 303.447.1154 (just west of 30th Street)

715 S Main St. Longmont • 303.651.9024

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SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 13C A M E R A

BEST CHINESE RESTAURANT

China Gourmet3970 North Broadway, Boulder, 303.440.3500, www.chinagourmetmenu.com

The restaurant itself is unassuming, outfitted with basic furniture. It’s a self-serve opera-tion; customers place, pay for and pick up orders at the counter. China Gourmet’s food,however, is anything but ordinary. Inside its exhaustive menu you’ll find a hot and sour soupthat achieves the perfect yin-yang balance of the two tastes and delectably crisp spring rolls.You’ll discover perennial favorites like sesame chicken, coconut curry shrimp, mu shu pork,Szechwan beef and lo mein, all made to order and perfectly spiced. But if you’re looking for atruly unique and authentic experience, keep turning the pages until you arrive at the Shang-hai specials. Chinese eggplant hot pot, shredded pork with bean curd, sliced fish with blackmushrooms and bamboo, crispy duck and Kung Pao squid are just a few of the offeringsthat will transport you if not around the world, then at least to your favorite big cityChinatown haunt.

Golden Lotus

1964 28th St., Boulder, 303.442.6868, www.goldenlotuscuisine.com

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14 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST LATE-NIGHT RESTAURANT

The Corner Bar2115 13th St. (in the Hotel Boulderado), Boulder, 303.442.4560

It’s late, you’re hungry and an average burger just won’t do. The antidote for your appetiteis The Corner Bar, located in Boulder’s historic Boulderado Hotel. “We offer a full menu,every night until 11:45,” says Ann Meecham, general manager, “and you can choose fromthe full range of starters, salads, sandwiches, entrees and desserts.” Favorites include smallplates items like Shrimp and Saffron Risotto Fritters, delicious appetizers like the Pan SearedLump Crab Cakes and full entrees from the grill. “It’s a whole lot better than just grabbing agrilled cheese sandwich,” Meecham says. “You can have nachos, or a fresh mixed green salad,a Flatiron steak, or you can have chocolate cake. The Corner Bar is more of a restaurantthat serves drinks than a bar that serves food. You have a full bar with all the drinks, but youalso have a full restaurant menu, so it’s the best of both worlds.” It’s also a favorite spot fordowntown residents and concert goers from the Boulder Theater who are craving a late-nightbite to eat.

Cosmo’s Pizza

659 30th St., Boulder, 303.447.3278, www.saltboulderbistro.com

BEST THEATER PERFORMANCE

Boulder’s Dinner Theatre5501 Arapahoe Avenue. Boulder, 303.449.6000, www.bouldersdinnertheatre.com

Hello, Dolly! Shout! Swing! Cats. Greater Tuna. What a great lineup of shows – and they’replaying in Boulder this season. Since 1977, Boulder's Dinner Theatre has delighted audienceswith live, Broadway-quality entertainment and fine dining – with a twist: The actors servethe food. “We do good theatre,” says Artistic Director Michael Duran. ”I’m very proud ofour talented cast and the set design, costumes, lighting design, and live orchestra. And I’mproud that our actors also wait tables, so the audience sees them up close and personal. Somegreat relationships develop between audience members and cast members. Some people havebeen coming here since we opened. Others are here for the first time. As to the food, wetry to vary the menu, make the food taste good and look good, within the limited capacityof our kitchen. We keep it varied because people come here more than once. We hope tokeep entertaining in the Boulder area for many more years.” Members of the company haveperformed all over the country, from New York and Chicago to Hollywood. They've beencast in sitcoms and feature films. Some have been nominated for Academy Awards. Some arejust starting out. But they all call Boulder's Dinner Theatre "home."

The Colorado Shakespeare Festival

N. Broadway St. & Euclid Ave., Boulder, 303.492.0554, www.coloradoshakes.org

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

Agave Mexico Bistro & Tequila House2845 28th Street, Boulder, 303.444.2922, www.agavecolorado.com

Think you know Mexican food? Soggy microwaved enchiladas swimming in runnycheese is out, Amigo! Get yourself a table under the arches at Agave Mexico and perusethe tasty menu. “We serve authentic Mexican cuisine,” explains general manager GeorgePingarron, “not the Tex-Mex that a lot of people are used to.” Ingredients can includepoblano chiles, zucchini, cactus, or mangos. “We use a lot of natural ingredients and wehave very good vegetarian dishes,” Pingarron says. Match your entrée with an excellentbottle of wine from our selection imported from South America and Spain. Take yourchoice of not one but DOS happy hours daily, from 2 to 5 p.m. in the dining roomand then from 7 p.m. to closing in the upstairs bar, which is luxuriously appointedwith lounges and couches around the bar. Enjoy half price hors d’oeuvres, five-dollarmargaritas and more traditional Coin Style margaritas for six dollars. Or perhaps you’llenjoy sampling from 89 of the finest tequilas on hand, including small-label distillationsthat you don’t see very often.

Salt

1047 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.7258, www.saltboulderbistro.com

BEST BOULDER COUNTY EVENT

Boulder Creek FestivalDowntown Boulder along Boulder Creek, 9th St. - 14th St., 303.449.313, bceproductions.com

For 24 years, the Boulder Creek Festival has been the unofficial kickoff to summer inBoulder. Held on Memorial Day Weekend, it is three days of nearly non-stop festivities –including a salute to veterans and those serving in the military. The Festival is free to thepublic and has plenty for everyone: 10 separate event areas with 500 vendors showcaseeverything from arts and crafts to health alternatives to carnival rides and bungee bouncingand endless food and beverages. Five performance stages rock with music and dance. Atthe Great Rubber Duck Race, thousands gather on Boulder Creek’s shores to watch 7,000bobbing ducks, purchased for $5 each to support Boulder's EXPAND program – whichprovides recreational opportunities to people with disabilities. Teens hang out at the “TeenCreek Fest,” and the “Kid’s Place” features children’s entertainment and hands-on activities.Youngsters float in the kayak pool, ride a miniature train – there’s even a fishing derby. Wordsto the wise for next year: Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind community party!

(TIE)

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

Boulder County Farmers’ Markets13th St. between Arapahoe and Canyon, Boulder; Boulder County Fairgrounds9595 Nelson Rd., Longmont; 303.910.2236, www.boulderfarmers.org

BEST INDIAN RESTAURANT

The Taj2630 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.494.5216, www.tajcolorado.com

The Taj returns again this year as our top pick for the best Indian food in Boulder County.“We are so thrilled!” say Kamala Ghimire and her husband Vhim Rai, who own and managethe restaurant and create the wonderful Northern Indian-style soups, appetizers and entréesthat have turned diners into avid fans. After opening a successful restaurant in downtownBoulder, the pair opened The Taj in 1996. “We don’t cut corners in preparation,” Ghimiresays. “We even peel our own garlic.” It’s not all about the curry at The Taj. Indian cuisine usesa cornucopia of spices to achieve its delicate flavors, including cumin, coriander, cinnamon,bay leaves, cardamom, fennel, anise and mustard seeds. “We adjust the heat level for the localcustomers so it’s not too hot. But you can add some of the chili sauces which are served onthe side if you want it more spicy.” Favorite dishes include Lamb Korma, Saag (spinach withchicken, lamb or shrimp) and Tandoori Chicken, prepared in a traditional clay oven. And let’snot forget the buttery Makhani Chicken. “We make our Makhani with boneless, moist andtender chicken, people absolutely love it,”says Ghimire.

Tandoori Grill

619 S. Broadway St., Boulder, 303.543.7339, www.tandoorigrillboulder.com

SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 15C A M E R A

BEST PLACE TO HEAR LIVE MUSIC

Boulder Theater2032 14th St., Boulder, 303.786.7030, www.bouldertheater.com

The historic Boulder Theater has a colorful past. Opened in 1906, the venue featuredopera, musical productions and silent movies. In subsequent transformations the art decoornamentation, including hand-painted murals and fresco ceiling, were carefully preserved,bestowing a timeless charm on the space. Today it is the happening place for eclectic musicalperformances, from rap to acoustic guitar, rock, reggae, jazz, Afro Beat – you name it. Comeby in October for gigs by Wiz Khalifa, The Walkmen, Tea Leaf Green, and The Motet PlaysEarth, Wind and Fire, among many musical groups. And catch comedy performers likeDavid Sedaris and the Upright Citizens Brigade Touring Company. The place is still goingstrong after 114 years.

Fox Theater (The Fox)

1135 13th St., Boulder, 303.443.3399, www.foxtheatre.com

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BEST SKINCARE FACILITY

Laser & Cosmetic Associates of Boulder4745 Arapahoe Ave., Suite 130, Boulder, 303.558.8800 www.enhanceyourskin.com

Feel good about the way you look! Laser & Cosmetic Associates of Boulder is ownedand operated by local board-certified physicians. They offer medical-grade skin and facialrejuvenation treatments that provide exceptional and lasting results – combining state-of-the-industry laser and non-surgical treatments with facial plastic surgery. Led by AndrewGoldman, M.D., a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, the medical doctors andexpert staff combine technology with personalized care to give patients greater levels ofsatisfaction and confidence in their lives. Treatments include skin resurfacing and acnetreatment through skin tightening, chemical peels, medical-grade skin care, light therapy,laser vein treatment, lymphatic massage, facials, and more.

Essentiels Spa

2660 Canyon Blvd., Boulder, 303.440.0711, www.halcyondayssalonsandspas.com

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

McGuckin Hardware2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303-443-1822, www.mcguckin.com

Multiple award winner McGuckin Hardware is the epitome of good customer service. “Thecustomer service standpoint sets us apart from many other stores,” says Marketing ManagerRandy Barker. “This has been a family-owned business since 1955, and the customer-serviceexample is set by the owners: Dave Hight and his son, Barry Hight, are active on the salesfloor and serving customers every day. Due to the size of the store – 60,000 square feet,around 250,000 items – it is often difficult for customers to locate things on their own. Westrive to provide outstanding service to help them find what they’re looking for. We try to beavailable, but not overbearing.” Store Manager Randy Dilkes says, “We love Boulder. It makesMcGuckin what it is. We are the world’s greatest hardware store serving the world’s greatestcustomers. It has been this way since the beginning. Bill McGuckin wanted to start it as a fly-fishing store, and people kept asking for sporting goods. He listened to Boulder, and he andDave Hight wanted to stock everything the people of Boulder want. This is one of the classicindependent Mom and Pop community hardware stores.”

Boulder Valley Credit Union

5505 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.442.8850, 2667 Broadway, Boulder, 303.449.3551800 Coal Creek Circle, Louisville, 720.890.0404, www.bvcu.org

BEST MOVING COMPANY

Taylor Movingwww.taylormove.com, 4949 North Broadway, #110, Boulder, 303.443.5885

There’s a reason this local, 16-year-old, family-owned and operated company keeps winningin this category: They’ve mastered the art of customer service in moving. Co-owner LeahTaylor calls the Taylor Moving team of 110 one big family. “We hang out together. We eventake vacations together,” she laughs. “Customers also like that either Glenn or I are in theoffice and they can always reach us.” Customers are so satisfied that they often request thesame moving team the next time they relocate. “If they are a repeat customer, it’s in thesystem and they often get the same crew,” says Taylor. Rather than hiring day laborers, TaylorMoving trains professional movers on how to get the job done right. “We teach them all thetechniques,” says Taylor. And the company has what they do down to a science. Teams movesome 3,000 homes a year—30 a day in the summer—and partner with Eco-Cycle for azero-waste model by buying back and reselling used moving boxes, reusing packing paperand recycling unusable boxes as well as plastic and metal.

Two Men and a Truck

www.twomenandatruck.com, 6280 Arapahoe Road, Boulder, 303.443-9911

Services, Faces and Places

18 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST TANNING SALON

Tans to Go1842 30th St., Boulder, 303.444.7600, www.tanstogo.com

Tans To Go has won the Boulder County Gold award nine years in a row. Doug andCindy Swartz credit their outstanding staff for all of the accolades. Many of the staffmembers have been with Tans To Go for years, and the key to the high standard ofcustomer service is “empowerment”. Doug adds, “They are completely empoweredto make decisions that ensure that our clients are well taken care of.” After 23 years inbusiness, Tans To Go has dialed in the products and services that make it the number onechoice for tanners in Boulder County. “There are many choices out there, we have to earnour customer’s business, and treat it well to keep it,” says Cindy. Tans To Go expanded lastyear, almost doubling its space, adding new equipment and building a very nice “customairbrush room.” They were once again chosen this year to sponsor the University ofColorado Cheer and Dance Teams.

VerandaSun

1670 30th St., Boulder, 303.447.8844, www.verandasun.com

BEST LOCAL EMPLOYERBoulder Valley Credit Union

5505 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.442.8850; 2667 Broadway, Boulder, 303.449.3551800 Coal Creek Circle, Louisville, 720.890.0404; www.bvcu.org

For the third year in a row, Boulder Valley Credit Union has been voted Best Local Employerin the Boulder County Gold Awards. It was chartered and established in 1959 as BoulderValley Schools Credit Union and last year celebrated its 50th anniversary. BVCU currentlyserves members across the Colorado Front Range and throughout the United States,providing low-cost financial services for the entire family. Offices are in Boulder, Estes Park,and Louisville, and are part of the Credit Union Service Center and Co-Op ATM Networks,which allow members free access to thousands of locations nationwide. As a member-ownedfinancial institution, Boulder Valley Credit Union’s mission is to provide helpful, friendly,accurate and prompt financial services to members. Its vision is to be financially sound andmeet the needs of its members.

Boulder Community Hospital

Boulder Community Hospital main campus, 1100 Balsam Ave., Boulder, 303.440.2273Boulder Community Foothills Hospital, 4747 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 720.854.7000Mapleton Center for Rehabilitation, 311 Mapleton Ave., Boulder, 303.440.2273Community Medical Center, 1000 W. South Boulder Road, Lafayette, 303.666.4357Beacon Center for Infectious Diseases, 1136 Alpine Ave., Ste. 205, Boulder, 303.938.3167Boulder Center for Sports Medicine, 311 Mapleton Ave., Boulder, 303.544.5700Boulder Center for Sports Medicine, 1000 W. South Boulder Rd., Ste. 220, Lafayette, 303.926.2665Buffalo Ridge Medical Center, 16677 Lowell Boulevard, Broomfield, 303.938.3498Family Medical Associates, 1000 W. South Boulder Road, Ste. 110, Lafayette, 303.666.7555Foothills Gynecology, 4745 Arapahoe Avenue, Suite G-50, Boulder, 720.854.7400Gunbarrel Medical Center, 6685 Gunpark Drive East, Ste. 110, Boulder, 303.530.3062Holistic Family Practice, 1155 Alpine Avenue, Ste. 360, Boulder, 303.442.8843Internal Medicine Associates of Boulder, 1155 Alpine Avenue, Ste. 360, Boulder, 303.442.8840Internal Medicine Associates at Foothills, 4745 Arapahoe Ave., Ste. G-50, Boulder, 720.854.7272Internal Medicine Assoc. of Lafayette, 1000 W. S. Boulder Rd., Ste. 214, Lafayette, 303.604.6669Medical Imaging Center of Broomfield, 36 Garden Center, Broomfield, 303.466.1234Table Mesa Family Medicine, 1755 48th Street, Boulder, 303.494.5263www.bch.org

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

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SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 19C A M E R A

BEST FINANCIAL INSTITUTION

Elevations Credit Union2960 Diagonal Highway, Boulder, 4760 Baseline Road, Boulder, 611 South Broadway, Boulder,1669 Euclid Ave., Suite 143, Boulder, 1900 W. South Boulder Road, Lafayette, 2101 N. Main St.,Longmont, 1079 S. Hover, Suite 100, Longmont, 303.443.4672 www.elevationscu.com

Founded in 1952 with less than $100, Elevations Credit Union has grown to become thelargest and most successful credit union in Boulder County, with over 80,000 members and$900 million in assets. Each one of those members is also an Elevations owner, and theirconnections to their community provide the foundation for the relationship the credit unionshares with each locale in our county. Elevations provides nearly every type of product andservice you need for your personal and business finances, from credit cards to basic checkingand savings accounts to most types of loans, for your car, education, mortgage or business.Financial advisors help members understand the best investments, income and retirementplanning and more to help you create your own comprehensive financial plan. This year weagain salute Elevations Credit Union as the best Financial Institution in Boulder County!

Boulder Valley Credit Union

5505 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.442.8850; 2667 Broadway, Boulder, 303.449.3551800 Coal Creek Circle, Louisville, 720.890.0404; www.bvcu.org

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Best Pilates/Yoga Center

CorePower Yoga645 27th Way, Boulder, 303.497.9642; 3280 28th St., Boulder, 303.440.3930 www.corepoweryoga.com

Whether they like their yoga hot, sculpted or fused, local yogis have again chosen CorePower Yoga, with two studios inBoulder, as their favorite destination of choice when it’s time to unroll the mat and explore the asanas. “Our studentsreally like the ‘open arm’ feeling they find here, whether they are beginners or have been practicing a long time,” saysCara Fogel, regional manager. “CorePower classes combine heat, music, breath and movement for an intense andenergizing experience.” Popular classes include Hot Power Fusion, Yoga Sculpt (which moves slower and focuses onstrength) and Yin Yoga (a restorative form of yoga using a series of floor positions). Lifestyle programs, with topicson nutrition and wellness, are an excellent complement to the full schedule of classes. How to start? “We offer a freeweek to newcomers who want to give yoga a try,” Fogel says.

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

BEST TEACHER

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

Doug London is the consummate teacher: in the classroom, where English is his subject and he currently teachesAdvanced Placement literature and some electives in American literature; and on the soccer field, where he coachesthe boys and girls varsity soccer programs (in 2009 the Denver Post named him Coach of the Year for leading the girlssoccer team to the state finals for Class 3A). Recently named Special Assistant to the Headmaster, his first project is towrite a 40-year history of the school. “The Dawson School motto has always been, ‘Nothing without Labor,’” he says.“What I have tried to do is encourage and teach kids to work hard not only academically, but at discovering who theywant to be and to become engaged with activities they enjoy. I hope that the next generation will not shy away from the‘hard work’ in their personal as well as professional lives.” In his spare time London likes to ski and bike and– no surprise – to coach boys and girls school or club soccer teams.

(TIE)

Dan Felknor, Monarch High School329 Campus Drive, Louisville, 303.665.5888, www.bvsd.org/schools/monarchhigh

Brenda Taylor, Centennial Middle School2205 Norwood Ave., Boulder, 303.443.3760, www.bvsd.org

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SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 21C A M E R A

BEST MEDICAL FACILITY

Boulder Community HospitalBoulder Community Hospital, 1100 Balsam Ave., Boulder, 303.440.2273

Boulder Community Foothills Hospital, 4747 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 720.854.7000Community Medical Center, 1000 W. 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, 303.441.0493Boulder Center for Sports Medicine, 311 Mapleton Ave., Boulder, 303.544.5700Boulder Center for Sports Medicine East, Community Medical Center Building,1000 W. South Boulder Rd., Second Floor, Lafayette, 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

Ranked in the top 10% of hospitals nationally for the safety of its orthopedic care and overallmedical care by the CareChex quality rating service, Boulder Community Hospital is so muchmore than the place you go when you break an ankle. “We appreciate that our patients arealso our friends and neighbors, so we make every effort to make sure they receive care thataddresses their emotional and spiritual needs as well as their physical issues,” says BCH’sdirector of public relations, Rich Sheehan. But while BCH is locally focused, it continues toevolve through medical innovation, providing local access to the latest treatments. “From theda Vinci surgical system to CyberKnife radiosurgery, we have a proud history of introducingnew procedures and technologies to Boulder County,” says Sheehan. In fact, BCH had thefastest growing robotic surgery program in Colorado in 2009. The da Vinci system usesbreakthrough technology to provide a minimally invasive alternative that can be used formany complex surgical procedures. That equals significantly less pain, less scarring andshorter surgery recovery time, says Sheehan.

Boulder Medical Center

BMC 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

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22 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST STORAGE FACILITY

SecurCare Self Storage (formerly U Store It)6405 O’Dell Place, Boulder, 720-279-1795 • 4545 Broadway St., Boulder, 720-279-19205815 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 720-259-0379 • 6338 Arapahoe Road., Boulder, 720-279-0288www.securcareselfstorage.com

Since last October, the four Boulder locations of U Store It have a new name – SecurCare Self Storage –and new owners. Are you moving? Do you need to clear away clutter? Are you downsizing but still want toknow your valuables are safe and secure? SecurCare offers stress-free storage solutions across the countrythat can help you save time and money. Knowledgeable staff can help you to reserve appropriate storagespace. At some SecurCare sites you can even store a vehicle or boat. A move starts with sturdy movingboxes that will protect your possessions throughout the entire moving and storage process. Storage boxesand all kinds of packing supplies can be purchased at the local SecurCare facilities (four in Boulder).

BOULDER BINS SELF STORAGE

4900 N. Broadway, Boulder, 303.443.2002, www.selfstorageboulder.com

BEST TRAVEL AGENCY

James TravelPoints1750 14th St., Boulder, 303.442.2340, www.travelpoints.com

Founded in 1957, James TravelPoints is today led by a second generation of the James family. Presidentand co-owner Donald James explains the company’s success: “We’ve developed many specialty niches, sothat one, two or three people here become experts in a particular destination. They focus all their attentionon that destination. For example, we have three people whom we identify as our Mexico experts; peoplemay go online themselves and research Mexico travel, but then they want to talk with someone who reallyknows Mexico, so they call us. We have three people who do nothing but plan trips to Belize and CostaRica. We promote those experts on our Web site, 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. One of thecornerstones of our business philosophy is creating relationships with our customers. Customers stay withus long-term, and they talk to their friends, family and associates about the good experience they’ve hadwith us. That’s the best advertising, and the best way for a business to grow and survive.” Vice presidentand co-owner Andy James noted, “Our staff are specialists in a particular area, but also have roundedknowledge of other destinations around the world. We have a staff member with expertise on cruises –she’s been on hundreds of cruises – and she also is expert on Europe. What’s interesting is the longevity ofour staff; most have been in the business for 30+ years, and the very least is five years. The majority havebeen with us 10 to 15 years, so they know the business. People get confused online with a lot of choices;they want a good price, but they really want a good vacation. We know and can say: it’s a good deal, but youdon’t want to stay in that area. We have a good reputation all over the U.S. with people who have followedus because of our staff.”

Cain Travel

2990 Center Green Court, Boulder, 303.443.2246, www.caintravel.com

BEST ACTIVIST/COMMUNITY CHAMPION

Lee Shainis, Founder, Intercambio de Comunidades4735 Walnut St., Suite B, Boulder, 303.996.0275, 515 Kimbark St, Suite 103, Longmont, 303.776.7070,1412 W. 38th Ave., Denver, 303.433.0190, www.intercambioweb.org

Intercambio de Comunidades fosters cultural interchange between immigrant populations and English speakersin the community. Volunteers teach English to immigrants, and out of this interchange, friendships are formed.Lee Shainis co-founded the independent nonprofit organization in 2001 with his friend, Shawn Camden, andsince then, 6,000 students and 3,000 volunteers have participated. Its mission is to build respectful communitiesand broaden opportunities for immigrants through language education, cultural exchange and friendship. Shainisis motivated by “seeing our work in action – the classes, the friendships building between teachers and students.These are all good people. So many people want to do this; we train 30 new volunteers a month. We’re alsomotivating our partners – housing organizations, schools, parenting organizations. People are super-committed.Our donors are great, too. My satisfaction comes from hearing how people’s lives are completely changed –getting a job, getting citizenship. They say: ‘I can not only survive here, I can succeed!’ This is pretty intensework, so we balance it with a lot of fun. I’m known as the fun guy in the community. It’s important for theimmigrant community to de-stress, because their lives are often heavy. I think I got this award because of thepeople who are part of the organization and do amazing things; it makes me look good. The award belongs tothe organization – I‘m just the face of it.”

(Tie)

Robin Bolduc, Center for People with Disabilities1675 Range St., Boulder, 303.442.8662, www.cpwd-ilc.org

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

BEST HOLISTIC CARE/WELLNESS CENTER

Wellness Center at Frasier Meadowswww.frasiermeadows.org, 350 Ponca Place, Boulder, 720.562.4317

You don’t have to be a Frasier Meadows resident to enjoy the friendly andnurturing environment at the complex’s brand-new wellness facility. “We havea very inviting space and great staff members who are knowledgeable andfun,” says director of wellness Lyn McQueen. “We provide many ways forpeople to enhance their health and wellbeing.” The Wellness Center at FrasierMeadows offers customized, holistic plans that may include strengthening,postural alignment, balance work, functional fitness, heart-healthy exercise andclasses, plus a therapeutic swimming pool, massage therapy, reflexology,acupuncture clinics and a spa/styling salon. “Choices range from workingone-on-one with personal trainer to working independently,” says McQueen.And after an active day at the center, members can replenish with a healthy biteat Frasier Meadows’ on-site Towne Grill.

AcupunctureWorks

www.acupunctureworksboulder.com, 1732 Canyon Blvd., Boulder, 303.443.0087

SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 23C A M E R A

BEST INTERIOR DESIGN STUDIO

Bartlett Interiorswww.bartlettinteriors.com, 2020 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.442.5194

There are few businesses that can tout a 50-year expertise—and existence. But that’s exactlywhat sisters Jane and Nancy Bartlett are celebrating this year. In 1960, Bartlett Interiorsstarted as a family-owned carpet and drapery shop before Jane Bartlett joined the crew in1975, and eventually bought and expanded the business along with sister Nancy into a steadyinterior design business. “We are so grateful to be here,” says Jane. “Service and relationshipsare elements that have helped us along the way. We work hard and just try to do good workfor people.” One of the Bartletts’ mottos is “You’re never out of style.” The sisters tend todo a lot of repeat business for clients who like classic, high-quality design that can last alifetime. While they attend design shows regularly to freshen up their furniture and fabricofferings, after 25 years in the business the Bartletts know that trends come and go quickly,but good design sticks around. The refreshing thing about Bartlett Interiors is no job is toosmall. Come in for one chair reupholstering or some paint color advice. “We don’t turn awayanyone,” says Jane.

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24 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST LASIK/LASER EYE FACILITY/SURGEONBeyer Laser Center

1810 30th Street, Suite B, Boulder, 303.499.2020, www.bouldereyes.com

There’s a famous quote that suggests if you’re coasting, you’re going downhill. “We don’tbelieve in coasting,” says Dr. Craig Beyer of Beyer Laser Center, which has been servingBoulder since 1998. “We’re always improving and working to do better.” Studying withthe first innovators in the laser field, Dr. Beyer is in touch with this small group of“friends” regularly, searching out and learning about the most state-of-the-art yet proventechnology. “Boulder is a small community,” he says. “We can’t implement newtechnologies just because they come out. I can’t experiment and take a chance in thecommunity in which I live. We have to make sure Boulder patients are happy.” Thatmeans Beyer Laser Center employs only the best-quality equipment like the NASA-gradeVisx Star S4 for laser vision correction. Along with LASIK and PRK offerings, the centeris also a full-service eye care facility, providing everything from cataract and glaucomacare to contacts and multi-focal lens implants. Oh, and they do it all in a comfortable,friendly, relaxed environment where white coats are scarce and conversations aboutpatients’ favorite pastimes come standard.

(Tie)

InSight Lasikwww.insightlasik.com, 1120 W. South Boulder Road, Lafayette, 303.665.7577

Boulder Eye Surgeonswww.bouldereyesurgeons.com, 4745 Arapahoe Ave., Suite 100, 303.444.3000

BEST HEARING AID CENTERFamily Hearing Centers

3059 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.443.5085, www.familyhearingco.com

Hearing loss can prevent you from living life to its fullest. And when you need hearingassistance, you want to be confident that you are receiving the best. At Family HearingCenters, hearing care is people care. “We recognize that ‘hear’ is four-fifths of ‘heart,’” saysDr. Christopher Schweitzer, senior audiologist. “People appreciate our combination oflistening, caring and professionalism. Each person we meet presents a new opportunity for usto learn and to help them hear better.” Diagnostic testing, hearing aid evaluation and fitting,and tinnitus therapy are provided by highly skilled care providers. With over 45 years ofservice in Colorado, Family Hearing Centers continue to balance new technology withold-fashioned personal care. “Nobody cares what you know, until they know how much youcare,” Schweitzer says.

Boulder Valley Hearing Associates

4745 Arapahoe Ave. #130, Boulder, 303.443.2771

SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 25C A M E R A

BEST PET GROOMING SERVICEThe Hydrant

2900 Valmont Road, Boulder, 303.442.7550

Doggie dreadlocks be gone! The Hydrant, operating for a remarkable 40 years, is once againBoulder’s favorite place for full-service pet grooming. “When it’s working, you don’t changeit,” says The Hydrant’s manager, Elisha Martinez. Pet owners enjoy the fixed-price, all-inclusive grooming package, with a bath, haircut, nails, ear cleaning – even anal glandinspection. The dogs don’t seem to mind it either, and they woof about the free-roamingdoggie daycare-like environment. With long-term groomers Valerie Brandner and LoriMarcin helping Martinez, service is top of the line and team experience is unmatched aroundtown. “You see lots of smiles—whether they’re on our faces or the dogs’,” says Martinez.“People like to see the dogs playing in such an enjoyable, calm environment.”

Broadway Animal Hospital and Pet Center

www.broadwayanimal.com, 1405 South Broadway, Boulder, 303.499.5505

Thank youBoulder County

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303.485.6988 • 1920 S. Coffman Street in Longmont(Located in New Town Prospect)

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WWe’re proud to bee’re proud to beBest of Boulder.Best of Boulder.

Lee A. Woods, DVMand staff

303.499.55051405 S. Broadway, Boulderwww.broadwayanimal.com

Surgery + Laser Technology + Dental Care + Digital Radiology + Boarding + Doggie Daycare + Grooming

26 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST VETERINARIAN

Broadway Animal Hospital and Pet Center1405 South Broadway, Boulder, 303.499.5505, www.broadwayanimal.com

Finding the right veterinarian is a very personal experience. You and your pet expect a highlyexperienced animal doctor with just the right amount of bedside manner to keep your furryfriend calm and well cared for. Broadway Animal Hospital and Pet Center director Dr. LeeWoods, who has owned the facility since 1991, and Dr. Patrick Kalenzi, who attended vetschool in Uganda and studied under Woods as a technician, try to provide Boulder petowners just that. “It’s about the quality of personalized care and compassion we give to thepatients—and our clients,” says client relations manager Mallory Bednorz. “We all have petsand we try to educate people as best we know how—and I think that comes off.” The facilitywas also renovated recently and features state-of-the-art equipment, setups for specializedsurgeries by visiting doctors and an eco-friendly outdoor turf play yard at the boardingfacility. Broadway Animal Hospital and Pet Center also offers dentistry and preventative careconsultations, and employs only full-time, state-certified vet techs.

Alpine Hospital for Animals

3210 Valmont Road, Boulder, 303.443.9661, www.alpinehospitalforanimals.com

BEST PLACE FOR WORSHIP

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

Let’s face, there’s a lot of competition in Boulder when it comes to places to worship. “This isquite contrary for us here at Flatirons,” says executive pastor Paul Brunner at FlatironsCommunity Church. “We’ve worked hard not to ‘attract’ people from other churches, but toprovide an environment for individuals who have left church, rejected the church or neverimagined stepping foot into a church.” The strategy seems to work. “We just want to be thechurch Jesus intended us to be. Throw off the goofy rituals and edicts that have beenfashioned over time and live out what Christ told us to do,” says Brunner. “Most people don’thave issue with Jesus; they just have an issue with those who claim to be his followers.” TheLafayette church has attracted a large following due to this open-minded approach, not tomention expansive programming and community outreach. “We are passionate about caringfor the hurting, the marginalized, and the poor in our community and around the world,” saysBrunner. “Flatirons attempts to step out of the way and point people to Jesus knowing onlyHe can change lives.”

Unity of Boulder

2855 Folsom St., Boulder, 303.442.1411, www.unityofboulder.com

BEST RETIREMENT/ALTERNATIVEOR ELDER CARE/ASSISTED LIVING

The Academy970 Aurora Ave., Boulder, 303.938.1920, www.theacademyboulder.com

The Academy has won the Boulder Gold Award numerous times, and no wonder.“People recognize that we strive for excellence and that we have a special community,”says Karen McMurray, a managing director and co-owner of the Academy. “TheAcademy is a beautiful place, but the people who live here and the people who workhere make it special. We have only 60 to 70 residents and 60 employees – we’re like afamily.” The Academy’s mission statement tells it all: To be a community of excellencethat fosters meaningful living in an intimate environment of grace 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 smallsize coupled with the dedication of staff to be excellent in all they do that make this aspecial place.” The Academy is just opening a new spa and fitness center: salt-water lappool, an exercise room with state-of-the-art weight and cardio equipment designed forseniors, a massage and treatment room offering facials, manicures and pedicures. Theywill add circuit training or individual personal training, and water aerobics, all as partof their wellness program. “We’re also adding a smaller common room, for up to 35people, with excellent audio, where we can do presentations. We’ll have Open Housesand a Grand Opening in November and December. It’s exciting!”

Frasier Meadows Retirement Community

350 Ponca Place, Boulder, 303.499.4888, www.frasiermeadows.org

BEST DENTIST

Dr. Ted Kawulok, Whole Family Dentistry1400 28th St., Ste 4, Boulder, 303.442.8625, www.wholefamilydentistry.com

Are you smile-impaired? You need to visit Whole Family Dentistry for a consultation withDr. Ted Kawulok, DDS, to find out about the exciting options in cosmetic and reconstruc-tive therapies. Veneers, aesthetic crowns and bridges, teeth whitening and contouring and theinnovative Invisalign option to traditional braces will give you plenty to smile about. Even theoffice has been recognized for excellence in dental office design. “We have a caring, compas-sionate office with a personal touch. Our staff has been with me a long time. Our ongoingeducation allows us to offer the latest and best solutions, from cosmetic treatments to TMJand sleep apnea therapy to custom-fitted sports mouth guards,” Dr. Kawulok says. “We inviteyou to visit us for your very own Smile Make-Over!”

(TIE)

Dr. Joel L. Schaffer2880 Folsom, Ste. 202, Boulder, 303.449.1792, www.coloradobritesmile.com

Dr. Steven L. Eurich1120 W. South Boulder Road, #202, Lafayette, 303.666.4653

SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 27C A M E R A

BEST FUNERAL HOME SERVICE PROVIDER

Crist Mortuary & Crematory3395 Penrose Place, Boulder, 303.442.4411, www.cristmortuary.com

The success of 100-year-old Crist Mortuary & Crematory is due to an unwaveringcommitment to customer service. “All of our directors and staff are dedicated to customerservice,” says general manager Michael Greenwood. “It’s about exceeding expectations at themost difficult time in someone’s life.” Boulder’s only full-service mortuary and crematory,offering preplanning, arrangements and aftercare on site, Crist can handle all the minutiae socustomers don’t have to worry during an extremely emotional time. “We want to make it aseasy as possible for someone to get through the initial phases of grief by taking as much offtheir plate as possible,” says Greenwood. “We allow them to grieve while we worry about thedetails.” In addition to assisting Boulderites through the death of loved ones, Crist extends amessage of compassion to the community at large, supporting organizations such as the localhospices, churches, Boy Scouts and the I Have a Dream Foundation.

M.P. Murphy & Associates Funeral Home

4984 Idylwild Trail, Boulder, 303.530.4111

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

Paul Roach, RE/MAX of Boulder2425 Canyon Blvd, Suite 110, Boulder, 303.441.5693, www.pauljroach.com

If numbers underscore a real estate agent’s reputation, then Paul Roach’s $200 million involume sales in the last 25 years should paint a picture of this RE/MAX agent’s successin the Boulder community. While he’s taking his skills beyond Colorado as a volunteerdirector of an orphanage in Chiapas, Mexico, he attributes his local achievement to threesimple things: trust, knowledge and communication. Roach also counts himself lucky tobe a part of a truly dedicated team of agents. RE/MAX of Boulder has been thenumber one producing single RE/MAX office in the United States for the last threeyears in a row. “Boulder is always on everyone’s map when they think of relocating,” hesays. “Where else in the U.S. can you find a university town with a cosmopolitan feel,incredible weather, multiple recreational opportunities and a job that actually pays?” Thesecrets to his trade are not that complicated. He advises buyers: Be patient. Get goodadvice. Follow the advice. For sellers: Be patient. Get good advice. Don’t compromise.

(TIE)

Gail Mock, Mock Realty825 S. Broadway, Boulder, 303.497.0620, www.mockrealty.com

Suzannah Shogren, Eighty 30 Realtywww.8030realty.com, 820 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.443.8030

BEST KIDS' DAY CAMP

YMCA of Boulder Valley2850 Mapleton Ave., Boulder, 303.442.2778, 2800 Dagny Way, Lafayette, 303.664.5455www.ymcabv.org

Generations of Boulder Valley kids have enjoyed the adventure, learning and camaraderieof YMCA day camps. From archery to swimming, arts and crafts to skateboarding and fieldtrips, all programs are well supervised with caring camp counselors who ensure the high-est safety and quality in each experience. “We have 125 years of history,” says Chris Coker,YMCA of Boulder Valley CEO and president. “Camp Dudley was the first resident camp inthe U.S. Our role-model staff engages kids with hands-on activities that support the lessonsand values of the YMCA mission. No one feels left out.” Children from many backgroundsand cultures get a unique opportunity to learn about each other’s lifestyles and traditions,Coker says, noting that 30 percent of attendees receive some form of fee assistance.

(TIE)

Mountain Day CampP.O. Box 3666, Boulder, 720.249.2997, www.mountaindaycamp.com

Rocky Mountain Day CampP.O. Box 270608, Louisville, 303.495.5204

BEST BOULDER VALLEY/ST. VRAIN SCHOOL

Boulder High School1604 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 720.561.2200, schools.bvsd.org/boulderhigh

Founded in 1875 as part of the University of Colorado, Boulder High School is one ofColorado's oldest and finest high schools, maintaining strong traditions in academics,athletics, fine arts and activities. The school has a strong academic reputation, with one of themost extensive Advanced Placement programs in the state. Its mission is to provide an aca-demic and creative environment in which every person is valued as an individual, challengedas a learner, and inspired to contribute to society. Academic excellence is a value shared bystudents, faculty and staff. Boulder High graduates 92 percent of its students, and 85 percentof its students who take Advanced Placement exams earn a 3 or better. Principal KevinBraney has said, “It’s a place that’s full of great energy – and phenomenal academic achieve-ment. We have so much talent in our art, music and theater programs. The spirit that comesfrom community support and talented students and faculty leads to excellence in everythingwe do.”

Fairview High School

1515 Greenbrier Blvd., Boulder, 303.499.7600, www.bvsd.org/schools/fairview

BEST PLACE TO WORK OUT

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

Boulder County’s legendary culture of fitness has a home address, at RallySport Health andFitness Club. With its vast menu of classes, special monthly events and generous workoutspace, just about anyone will find something that interests them. Swimming, kickboxing, golfclinics, yoga, cycling, Pilates… you get the picture; there’s a lot going on here. “With over 30years of commitment to the fitness community of Boulder, we have stayed at the cuttingedge of fitness trends and worked tirelessly to create success stories for our members.RallySport has a proven track record of being the most motivating and inspiring place to bewell!” director Erin Carson explains. Members feel connected by the friendships formed andthe strong sense of community that makes RallySport a safe and non-competitive place topursue wellness. The FitKids program, which meets three or four times per week, provides afitness opportunity for children from six to 13 years of age. Ski conditioning classes, startingup in October are always a club favorite, as well. “We are energized and excited about thefuture and the opportunity to continue our role as the leader in the fittest city in the country!”Carson says.

(TIE)

Flatiron Athletic Club505 Thunderbird Drive, Boulder, 303.499.6590, www.flatironathletic.com

Colorado Athletic Club1821 30th St., Boulder, 303.501.1700, www.coloradoathleticclubs.com

28 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST AUTO REPAIR

Hoshi Motors2504 Spruce St., Boulder, 303.449.6632, www.hoshimotors.net

When Laurie Farmen opened the doors of Hoshi Motors for business back in 1984, thereweren’t very many women doing auto repair – and she was an unknown. Now, 26 yearslater… well, there still aren’t many women in the business, but Farmen is nigh on famous forthe quality auto repair that Hoshi Motors provides, day in and day out. Why do so manypeople keep bringing their autos to Hoshi for maintenance or repair? “We’re on your side,”Farmen says. “We tell you the truth about what your car needs – and what it doesn’t.”Customers like the consistency of service they receive from the caring staff, many of whomhave been at Hoshi for over 15 years. “We are grateful to have the best customers; they’re thereason we exist,” Farmen says. “We’re not a high-profit machine here, and we really live byjust one rule – and that’s the Golden Rule.”

Pellman’s Automotive Service

4560 49th St., Boulder, 303.938.4050, www.pellmansauto.com

BEST CARPET CLEANING SERVICE

Nesheim Cleaning Services, Inc.1212 Commerce St., Lafayette, 303.666.8888, www.nesheims.com

Even the proudest homeowner is bound to mess up sometimes. Carpets get stained,hardwood floors get a little water damage and upholstery gets soiled. There’s nobodybetter than Neisheim Cleaning Services to get you out of a spot like this. Experienced,certified technicians understand the best methods and materials to use to restore yourhome’s beauty and pizzazz. “Our team receives training two mornings a week to keepcurrent on new carpets, fabrics and products,” says owner Rick Farasyn, who opened hisbusiness in 1981. “We use consistent state-of-the-art systems and steps to ensure the bestcleaning job possible. And we back our work with a 100-percent money-back guarantee.”What does Farasyn enjoy the most about this business? “I like to see the results. We makepeople happy, and they’re glad to refer us to their friends. We thank the people ofBoulder for blessing us with their support!”

Chem-Dry of Boulder

3835 Silver Plume Circle, Boulder, 720.304.3910, www.cdcarpetcleaning.com

BEST AIR CONDITIONING/HEATINGPrecision Plumbing & Heating

5035 Chaparral Court, Boulder, 303.581.1455, www.precisionplumbing.com

Cool in the Summertime, warm in the Winter, that’s how we like our homes! But when yourA/C is DOA and the furnace is on the fritz, you want Precision Plumbing & Heating on thejob. Precision’s highly skilled licensed and certified technicians know how to get your home’ssystems working efficiently again in short order. “Our customers have come to expect thehigh standard of proficiency and professionalism that we deliver on every service call,” saysowner Tom Robichaud. Every employee goes through a complete series of screening andinterviews and attends weekly training in customer service, new products, technicalknowledge and operating systems. “We attribute our success in hard economic times directlyto our loyal customers and their referrals,” Robichaud says. “Thank you for voting PrecisionPlumbing & Heating your # 1 service provider nine years in a row! We appreciate yourcommitment to our company. We will continue to provide you with the best customerservice, the most highly trained technicians and the greatest value for your home.”

Save Home Heat Co.

5741 Arapahoe Road, Unit 4, Boulder, 303.443.9762, www.savehomeheat.com

2460 Canyon Blvd.303.449.2112

www.jjwells.com

Thank you for helpingus grow year after year!

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SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 29C A M E R A

BEST DRY CLEANER/LAUNDROMAT

Art Cleaners1715 15th St., Boulder, 303.440.8600; 2570 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.499.7030;4800 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.494.2709; 1501 Lee Hill Road, Boulder, 303.447.8700;3980 N. Broadway, Boulder, 303.443.0158; 1631 Pace St., Longmont, 303.684.8585;300 E. Baseline Road, 303.665.2223, Lafayette; www.artcleaners.com

Got some dirty duds but no time to get them clean? Art Cleaners offers a wonderful freepick up and delivery service at your home or office. Or you can bring your dirty items toany of our seven convenient locations throughout Boulder County including our newestlocation in Downtown Lafayette. We also offer same day service for items brought in by9 a.m. If you can wear it and get it dirty, Art Cleaners cleans it: shirts, pants, linens, sheets,special leather and suede items and more. Seven convenient locations are staffed with friendly,knowledgeable people who can help you with even the dirtiest cleaning challenge. And thanksto the exclusive GreenEarth cleaning system, your dry cleaning is done in an environmentally-friendly, safe alternative to traditional chemical processes – just another reason we think ArtCleaners is the best in Boulder County!

John’s Cleaners

440 Black Diamond Drive, Lafayette, 303.665.9493,4800 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.499.55543325 28th St., Boulder, 303.444.28771615 Coalton Road, Superior, 303.499.2776www.johnsdrycleaners.com

2560 49th Street, Boulder, COwww.PellmansAuto.com • 303-938-4050

• Award winning service• Mechanics you can trust

• Always an honest assessment of your car’s repairs• Full service repair and maintenance –all your needs under one roof!• We work on all import and domestic cars, trucks, SUV’s and hybrids

• Award winning service

Thank You, Boulder!

B U S I N E S S D I R E C TFree pick-up & delivery for qualified businesses

Proud partnerswith ellie’s eco products

Think Cartridge World.THANKS FOR VOTINGFOR US BOULDER

FOR BEST GREEN BUSINESS

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Locally-owned since 1993Locally-owned since 1993

w w w . C h e z T h u y . c o mw w w . C h e z T h u y . c o mD i n e - i n o r C a r r y o u t . S e e f u l l m e n u a t :D i n e - i n o r C a r r y o u t . S e e f u l l m e n u a t :

2 6 5 5 2 8 t h S t r e e t , B o u l d e r2 6 5 5 2 8 t h S t r e e t , B o u l d e rC o n v e n i e n t f r e e p a r k i n g b e h i n d b u i l d i n gC o n v e n i e n t f r e e p a r k i n g b e h i n d b u i l d i n g

303-442-1700303-442-1700

• Gril led meats & seafood• Gril led meats & seafood• Vegetarian specialt ies• Vegetarian specialt ies• Salad & tradit ional phos• Salad & tradit ional phos

• Curries , s tews, soups• Curries , s tews, soups• Crystal rol ls and wraps• Crystal rol ls and wraps• Free parking, Kids menu• Free parking, Kids menu

Thank YouThank YouBoulder forBoulder forconsistentlyconsistentlyvoting us the

voting us the“Best of Boulder”“Best of Boulder”since 2003since 2003

Authentic & Origina l RecipesAuthentic & Origina l Recipes

30 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST HAIR SALON

The Parlour1037 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.444.3747, TheParlour.net

For expert hair care in a laid back and friendly atmosphere, step into The Parlour, just offthe Pearl Street Mall in Boulder. Twenty-two stylists are ready to give you a memorable cut,a deep conditioning treatment, or tasteful highlights, just right. We enjoy the social vibe atThe Parlour, a welcome break from our busy day that makes us leave feeling better thanwhen we came in. Serving both women and men since 1989, The Parlour is open Mondaythrough Saturday, with late hours mid-week to fit your crazy schedule. Got a wedding inthe future? The Parlour also offers full stylist services for the bride and all of her party.

(TIE)

Fix Hair Salon

1810 29th St., Ste. 2000, Boulder, 303.442.4247, www.fixhairsalon.com

Salon Salon

2460 Canyon Blvd., #1, Boulder, 303.443.5353, www.salonsalonboulder.com

BEST NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION

Humane Society Of Boulder Valley2323 55th St., Boulder, 303.442.4030, www.boulderhumane.org

Adopting a pet from the Humane Society of Boulder Valley can be a wonderful experience.But that’s not all the Humane Societydoes. CEO Lisa Pedersen explains, “Ourprincipal mission is to save the lives ofanimals by creating healthy relationshipsbetween pets and people. Our adoptionprograms match thousands of animalswith new loving families each year creatingthat human-animal bond. We also focuson providing resources and assistance topeople already living with a pet, throughour comprehensive training programs andour full-service veterinary clinic. With thestrong support of our community we canprovide lifesaving services, such as ourbehavior modification programs and ourshelter medicine program, ensuring eachand every animal who comes through ourdoors gets the care, shelter and time theyneed.” She noted adoptions are goingstrong this summer, and the increased number of animals HSBV is seeing means communitysupport is more important than ever. “We’re grateful to the community for the support, toour volunteers and to people coming to us for pets,” she says. “It’s a tribute to the way thecommunity values the animals in their lives.”

(TIE)

Intercambio de Comunidades4735 Walnut St., Suite B, Boulder, 303.996.0275; 515 Kimbark St., Suite 103, Longmont,303.776.7070; 1412 W. 38th Ave., Denver, 303.433.0190; www.intercambioweb.org

Emergency Family Assistance Association1575 Yarmouth Ave., Boulder, 303.442.3042, www.efaa.org

We’re honored to be Boulder’sWe’re honored to be Boulder’spreferred funeral providerpreferred funeral provider

Thank you for your trustThank you for your trustwww.cristmortuary.com • 303-442-4411

SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 31C A M E R A

BEST PET BOARDING SERVICE

Cottonwood Kennelswww.cottonwoodkennels.com, 7275 Valmont Road, Boulder, 303.442.2602

Winning this award seven years in a row is no accident for Cottonwood Kennels. “If in realestate it’s about location, location, location, in the kenneling business it’s your staff, staff,staff,” says co-owner Tom Bonfili. “We have a lot of really hard workers.” The high ratio ofworkers to dogs is one reason customers are so satisfied with the care at Cottonwood. “Itamazes me when I see articles in our trade magazine about new kennels bragging about howmany pets they can handle at one time—and then you see their staff size,” he says. “We have30 people and we’re not even half as big as some of these operations.” Cottonwood Kennels’small “farm” atmosphere features spacious outdoor and indoor areas for visiting pets, whichoften dogs, cats, birds, bunnies, ferrets and many other small animals. Bonfili, who has beenat the kennel since 1973, even suggests new families bring their pets out for a free day of playbefore boarding them at Cottonwood Kennels. “They get to play and meet us,” he says. “Wedon’t charge for that because it’s better for the pet, for the owner and for us.”

Broadway Animal Hospital and Pet Center

www.broadwayanimal.com, 1405 South Broadway, Boulder, 303.499.5505

– Serving Boulder County for over 25 years! –

For all your plumbing& heating needs!• Boilers & furnaces• Fixtures & faucets• Water heaters• Air conditioning• Sewer & drain lines• Kitchen & bath remodels

THANKS BOULDER COUNTYFORYOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT!

For The Smile of Your Life!For The Smile of Your Life!Providing Boulder Exceptional Dental Care

Since 1973

Joel L. Schaffer, DDS • Dave P. Stangl, DMD

9999999777333333

Joel L. Schaffer, DDS • Dave P. Stangl, DMDJJJJJJJJJJJJooeell LL.. SScchhaaffffeerr,,,,,,,, DDDDSS DDaavvee PP.. SSttaannggggggggggll,,,,,,,, DDMMDD

We invite you to call Kathleenfor your New Patient Interview.

303-449-1792 2880 Folsom, Suite 202 Boulder(S.E. Corner of Folsom & Valmont) Plenty of FREE PARKING

www.coloradobritesmile.com

Voted Least Scary Dentist -Boulder Daily Camera

Thank You Boulderfrom your favorite dentist

of 2009 and from our entire staff! We appreciateyour continued support and referrals.

32 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST AUTO DEALER

Flatirons Acura/Subaru5995 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.443.0114, FlatironsAcura.com

With two popular product lines to choose from and award-winning sales and service, BoulderCounty drivers are avid fans of sporty Subarus and luxurious Acuras from Flatirons Acura/Subaru. The sales staff at Flatirons Acura/Subaru makes your car shopping experience funand easy. We’re big fans of the personal approach to car care that the service departmentprovides, too. “We have an excellent team of service advisors with a focus on quality,” saysScott Crouch, general manager, who is continuing the family tradition started when hisfather opened his first dealership in Boulder in 1954. You’ll also find an exciting selection ofpreviously owned autos, each rigorously inspected before they go on the lot. “It is exciting tobe a winner again,” Crouch says.

Fisher Honda and Kia

6025 Arapahoe Road, Boulder, 800.873.0119, www.fisherauto.com

BEST SPA

Essentiels Spa2660 Canyon Blvd., Boulder. 303.440.0711, www.halcyondayssalonsandspas.com

Essentiels Spa opened in 1997 as a full-service spa and has continually provided the best spaexperience in Boulder. New Spa Director Lindsay Mydans, who is enthusiastically dedicated,says, "This is Boulder's spa and is truly a unique escape. The staff and I are supremelycommitted to exceeding our client's expectations. Essentiels is a sanctuary designed to allowour guests the ability to step away from their worries and stresses and refresh their mind,body and spirit while also offering cutting-edge treatments. We proactively stay on theforefront of skin rejuvenation, effective waxing, therapeutic massage and detox treatments,pampering nail services, natural airbrush tanning and special occasion makeup. I initially camehere as a client and am honored to uphold the reputation of the spa through communityinvolvement, volunteering for worthy causes, client appreciation and sustainability."

St. Julien Hotel & Spa

900 Walnut St., Boulder, 877.303.0900, www.stjulien.com

BEST CAR WASH

Puddle Car Wash3100 28th St., Boulder, 303.447.9274, PuddleCarWash.com

How often should you wash your car? Never! Not when you can take it to the Puddle CarWash and have their talented crew give it a top-to-bottom cleaning, vacuum the interiorand hand dry it to a final shine in just a matter of minutes. Interior detailing servicesinclude carpet shampooing, seat shampoo, vinyl and door panel cleaning, leatherupholstery cleaning and conditioning, to restore your car’s inner beauty. It’s like a spa foryour car! All the water is recycled, too. “People like the consistency and quality of ourservice,” says General Manager Rich Hart. “We are pleased to receive this recognitionfrom our customers and we are proud to continue to serve them.”

Black Diamond Car Wash

1414 Hecla Way, Louisville, 303.666.6696

BEST PLACE TO ENTERTAIN KIDS

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

Terri Takata-Smith, executive director of Downtown Boulder, can citeendless possibilities for entertaining kids on the Pearl Street Mall. Andshe’s talking just about the free stuff. “No cost, and hours of enjoyment,”she says. During hot summer days, the pop-jet fountain on the 1300 blockis a huge crowd favorite, and kids can’t resist the cooling spray. Not far,on the 1400 block, is the marble play area involving the oh-so-climbablesnail and frog. In the 1200 block outside Peppercorn are rock structuresand a bridge for the kids to climb and explore. “Those activities aretypical of Boulder,” Takata-Smith notes. “People here love to climb andexplore.” On the 1100 block is the “slippery rock,” which attracts kids likea magnet. The famous Pearl Street Mall buskers are spellbinding: There’sBongo, the balloon artist, who twists balloons into every conceivableshape; and contortionist Mitford Ibashi-i Brown, who unbelievablycurls his lanky body into a 20-inch Plexiglass box. The people trains runduring the summer between the 1200 and 1400 blocks, Mondays throughThursdays, 10 a.m. to noon. Festivals on the Mall – like the BoulderAsian Festival, and the Boulder Jewish Festival – often incorporate kids’activities. Seasonal events coming up include the Munchkin Masqueradeon Thursday, October 29, from 2 to 5 p.m., when little ones trick or treatup and down the Mall. And all ages chime in for the home team at thePearl Street Stampedes, those let-’em-have-it pep rallies on the Fridaynights before Colorado Buffaloes football home games, featuring theGolden Buffalo Marching Band. No wonder kids – and their parents –love hanging out at the Pearl Street Mall.

Gateway Park Fun Center

4800 N. 28th St., Boulder, 303.442.4386, www.gatewayfunpark.com

BEST REAL ESTATECOMPANY/OFFICE

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

With its agents averaging 17 years of experience,RE/MAX has a leg up in the highly competitivereal estate market. “They are knowledgeableand can convey those important pieces ofinformation that help consumers in thismarketplace,” says D.B. Wilson, RE/MAXof Boulder managing broker and presidentof Boulder Area Realtor Association. “We’reseasoned. We’ve seen good markets and bad,so we can really help people.” Wilson says he’sfocused on “getting back to basics” by watchingimportant statistical information and trendingto use as much data as possible to help homebuyers and sellers make good decisions. “Wehave to work harder, but the consumer reallybenefits.” He also attributes RE/MAX’s successto a synergy of full-time agents who work in anoffice environment. “If you’re hunkered downin your own bunker, you’re not seeing the realityof our marketplace,” he explains. “We don’thave part-timers. You walk in the door here andsomeone is always working on something—andthat can be really helpful.”

RU: Wright-Kingdom Real Estate

4875 Pearl E. Circle, Suite 100, Boulder,1.877.532.0820, www.wrightkingdom.com

SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 33C A M E R A

BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE

JJ Wells2460 Canyon Blvd., Boulder, 303.449.2112, www.jjwells.com

JJ Wells is a locally owned, women-owned boutique that specializes in women’s casualclothing, professional attire, handcrafted jewelry and fun fashion accessories. “We’re not inthe business to sell as much as we are to serve,” says co-owner Dana Culbertson. “Everyone of our customers has a different lifestyle and different needs in fashion. Everybody hasa different taste level. It’s about putting together things that our customers will wear andcare about.” Hot trends for the fall include tunic dresses paired with leggings and boots,long jackets paired with skinny jeans, tailored suits, and judicious use of accessories likescarves, long necklaces, big watches and just about anything metallic. “A little bit of bling isdefinitely fashionable,” laughs Culbertson. JJ Wells’ services include wardrobe consultation,alterations, private shopping hours and staying in touch with clients near and far. Manycustomers like to be contacted when new things come in, which happens constantly, and it’snot unusual for the store to ship goody packages to loyal patrons around the state andbeyond. JJ Wells aficionados can also follow the store on Facebook and Twitter.

Barbara & Company

1505 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.443.2565, www.barbaraandcompany.net

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING STORE

The Regiment2425 Canyon Blvd., #F, Boulder, 303.443.2713, www.theregimentshops.com

The Regiment has been outfitting Boulder County’s sharpest dressed men since 1959.Styles have certainly changed over the years, but the store’s commitment to quality,selection and excellent customer service has remained constant. “This year, clothes areback to a little more traditional sort of look, trending a little bit to Ivy League,” explainsGary Cartwright, who co-owns the store with Steve Jacobs. Plenty of timeless looks fill theracks as well. And every piece of clothing, regardless of design, comes from high qualityclothing lines such as Cole Haan, Robert Banks, Ibiza, Raffi and Trafalgar. Knowledgeablesalespeople, an in-house tailor and a traveling wardrobe consultant round out TheRegiment’s personalized service. “We just appreciate all the support that we’ve gotten fromthe Boulder County community – all the years of loyalty,” says Cartwright. “We appreciatereceiving the recognition.”

BEST GREEN PRODUCTS/SERVICES STORE

Ellie's Eco Home Store2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder 303.952.1004, www.elliesecohomestore.com

Ellie’s Eco Home Store owner Steve Savage is a pioneer. At the same timehe sensed a growing interest in sustainable home and building products andservices, he realized there were no department stores that catered specificallyto the green movement. “Whereas organic foods has been popular for 10 plusyears, people are just starting to understand how important it is to have naturalproducts that can improve the indoor air quality in their homes,” Savage says.Ellie’s opened its doors in 2008, and nowadays offers products in 18 differentstore departments. From office supplies to health and beauty, to paint materialsto cleaning products and just about everything in between, Ellie’s gives shop-pers an environmentally friendly choice. Most recently, Ellie’s began operatinga refillable non-toxic cleaner bar. “People really appreciate being able to refilltheir containers,” Savage says. “It saves them money, and keeps plastic bottlesout of the landfills and recycle streams.”

Cartridge World

1805 19th St., Suite 1140, Boulder, 303.440.94651515 Main St., #1, Longmont, 720.494.1715956 W. Cherry St., Suite 103, Louisville, 303.926.9737, www.cartridgeworld.com

Shopper’s Paradise

Weekends

1200 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.4231, www.weekendsboulder.com

34 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST LIQUOR STORE

Liquor Martwww.liquormart.com 1750 15th St., Boulder, 303.449.3374

Chances are that if you shop Liquor Mart, you’ve probably run into general manager JackStoakes. He runs a tight ship that’s heavy on customer service and beverage selection.Employees are like family at this historic liquor flagship, voted once again as BoulderCounty’s best. “Most of our employees treat their position here as a career,” says Stoakes.“Our employees are well trained and they care. Blame it on the economy lately, but it’s beengoing on much longer than that. Our staff is very knowledgeable in all departments andthey love to share their experience with our loyal customers.” Part of that knowledge ishelping people navigate the store’s 30,000 square feet featuring some 1,500 beer products,6,000 varieties of wine and more types of liquor than even the above-average beverageconnoisseur knew existed. Following a business philosophy of constant improvement, thestore is beginning a major remodel of the beer cooler area. “Bright new wall material, newflooring and new LED lighting will really brighten the place up,” says Stoakes.

(TIE)

Superior Liquorwww.superiorliquor.com, 100 Superior Plaza Way, Superior, 303.499.6600

North Boulder Liquor3990 Broadway St., #A, Boulder, 303.442.0894

BEST PLACE TO BUY MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

Robb’s Boulder Musicwww.robbsmusic.com, 2691 30th St., Boulder, 303.443.8448

In its 32nd year of operation, Robb’s Boulder Music has long secured its position as acommunity icon. Carrying a dizzying array of musical instruments and accessories for theamateur guitarist up to the professional band, Robb’s “pretty much has it all,” says ownerSeth Goodman, a musician in his own right. In its newer location, which has practicallydoubled the former shop’s floor space, Robb’s Boulder Music is featuring some of thebiggest products in the industry brand-wise. New and expanded lines include DW Drumsand the full line of Gibson products. In addition to its full-service repair shop, Robb’sprovides rentals for any PA or live-sound need, plus all the gear for KBCO’s famed StudioC. The best part of running a shop like Robb’s, where Colorado favorites like String CheeseIncident, Bela Fleck and “the Leftover guys” drop by regularly, “is really just being a fun,creative part of the Boulder community,” says Goodman. “It’s so multifaceted. We havegreat customers and creative, fun people that allow us to make some great friends andconnections—and customers for life.”

H.B. Woodsong’s

www.hbwoodsongs.com, 2920 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.449.0516

Locally owned & operated by the Taylor Family

VISIT OUR WEBSITE @ TAYLORMOVE.COMAnd Let Us Show You Why We Are

Consistently The Top Mover In Boulder County

LLCLocally owned & operated by the Taylor Familyylor Family

Taylor Movingand storage

H O N E S T • E X P E R I E N C E D • R E L I A B L E

THANK YOU! FOR VOTING US BOULDER COUNTY'SMOST TRUSTED MOVER AGAIN & AGAIN!

LICENSED • BONDED • INSUREDPROUD MEMBER OF TOM MARTINO'S EXCLUSIVE REFERRAL LIST

Call Today For A Friendly, Free Estimate 303-443-5885

SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 35C A M E R A

BEST SHOPPING DESTINATION (WITHIN COLORADO)

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

The people-watching is so good on the Pearl Street Mall that the phenomenal shoppingselection is just icing on the cake. Boulder’s signature downtown destination is a charming,eclectic and storied locale that once again came up tops for Boulder County Gold voters. Overthe past year, three well-known businesses have opened storefronts on the Pearl Street Mall:Crocs, Penzey’s Spices and Wenger, “Maker of the Genuine Swiss Army Knife.” Otherfavorites like ArtMart, Alpaca Connection and Starfish have simply shifted locations. And,of course, the most historic institutions continue to charm locals and visitors alike. Hurdle’sJewelry has been on Pearl Street since 1947, and Pedestrian Shops celebrated its 40thanniversary this year. Boulder Book Store, the city’s largest independent bookstore, holds morethan 100,000 titles in 20,000 square feet and three floors. And beloved Peppercorn, founded byDoris Houghland in 1977 as a cooking school and small gourmet kitchen store, has grown to12,000 square feet and is one of the most popular stores on the Pearl Street Mall.

FlatIron Crossing

www.flatironcrossing.com, 1 W. FlatIron Crossing Drive, Broomfield, 720.887.7467

STEVEN L. EURICH , D.D.S.STEVEN L. EURICH , D.D.S.We’d like to thank our patients for their continued support!

Practicing comprehensive Dental Care for adults and children for thePracticing comprehensive Dental Care for adults and children for thepast 25 years. We are accepting new patients, so come meet our staff,past 25 years. We are accepting new patients, so come meet our staff,

and see why we are voted one ofand see why we are voted one ofBoulder ’s Best Dental Pract ices!Boulder ’s Best Dental Pract ices!

1120W. SOUTH BOULDER RD., SUITE 202 LAFAYETTE, CO 800261120W. SOUTH BOULDER RD., SUITE 202 LAFAYETTE, CO 80026303.666.4653303.666.4653

Thank Youfor your support, Boulder!

While we are greatly honored to have served the Boulder community since

1963, we know that awards are fleeting and trust is easily lost to the careless

so, caring is a fundamental part of our legacy. You’ve trusted us for almost 50

years - Trusted us to lessen the struggles that result from hearing stress. We

consider that a “Sacred Trust” and we’re determined to maintain our dedica-

tion to continuous improvement. We know that ‘Hear’ is just one letter short of“Heart”. We Care. It’s Personal. Inter-Personal. That’s what we do. Repair

Personal Connections. THAT’S WHO WE ARE.

3 0 3 - 4 4 3 - 5 0 8 53 0 5 9 WA L N U T S T.

36 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST RUNNING STORE

Boulder Running Companywww.boulderrunningcompany.com,, 2775 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.786.9255

You’ve been living in a cave if you don’t know that Boulder Running Company is loaded withthe county’s most diverse selection of running-specific and casual shoes—not to mentionadvice from Olympic and world-class runners. Expert shoe fitters take regulars and sportingnewbies alike through the basics of finding just the right shoe. That includes free video gaitanalysis on the treadmill to show you exactly how your feet strike the ground—and how thattranslates to shoe mechanics. Ask an employee about new trends such as shoes with beefymid-soles that “just eat up the trail.” According to manager Aaron Bouplon, “people adorerunning downhill in the thick mid-sole shoes because they can descend with recklessabandon.” And when you’re through with your old trainers, be sure to dump them in BRC’sSoles for Souls bins. “We have to empty our bins three or four times a week,” says Bouplon.In addition to running shoes, Boulder Running Company stocks a huge selection of casualshoes—from dressier wedges to winter boots—as well as clothing and accessories from thepopular women’s Nike Tempo Short to the new Timex GPS watch.

Fleet Feet

www.fleetfeetboulder.com, 2624 Broadway, Boulder, 303.939.8000

BEST PLACE TO BUY CUSTOM COUNTER TOPS

Moros Fabrication3871 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.473.0111

If you’ve ever had a kitchen with sub-par laminate, you know how important high-qualitycounter tops are to how you live and work. The folks at 10-year-old, locally owned MorosFabrication built a successful business around just that: sourcing superior surfaces. Theyspecialize in custom installation of beautiful and enduring natural stone—granite, quartz andmarble. Using state-of-the-art fabrication techniques, Moros Fabrication uses precise in-housemachinery to get exact tolerances for countertop production. Helping do-it-yourselfers aswell as retail customers, designers, builders and architects, Moros Fabrication offers freein-home estimates and helpful design opinions about everything from Earth-friendlycomposite materials to creative backsplash ideas. “We take a more personal approach bybuilding lasting relationships/friendships with our clients,” says partner/general managerMarty Moros. “We produce the highest quality work with experienced fabricators andinstallers, and we take the time to carefully plan the layout of specialty granite colors to meetour client’s expectations.”

Atlas Flooring, Inc.

www.atlasflooring.com, 4920 28th St., Boulder, 303.442.3221

Thank you Boulderfor making larkburgeryour favorite burger.

2525 Arapahoe Rd. the Village Boulder

SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 37C A M E R A

BEST SPORTING GOODS STOREAND BEST OUTDOOR RECREATION STORERecreational Equipment, Inc. (REI)

www.rei.com, 1789 28th St., Boulder, 303.583.9970

Shopping at REI is an experience unto itself, so it’s no surprise that this superstore tookhome accolades in the best sporting goods and outdoor recreation categories. While regularcustomers return for what they know and love—high-quality gear and knowledgeablestaffers—nature-crazed Boulderites can’t help peeking in the store every now and then forthe latest trends and offerings in all things outdoor. Returning customers also find comfort“in the fact that they can return an item, because REI wants their customers to be 100%satisfied,” says outdoor specialist Sarah Leone. Plus what annual REI member doesn’t loveregular co-op coupons and annual dividends? New winter ski/board equipment is making itsway into the store as you read this and there’s a continued demand for the emerging trend inbarefoot running footwear, says Leone. Besides great gear, REI also offers a full-service skiand bike shop, lots of free classes and events, and a rental department for everything fromsnowshoes to tents. Oh, and did we mention REI Boulder is a prototype store—a completelygreen building with Gold LEED certification? “You can walk comfortably on flooring madeof recycled tires and tennis shoes, and enjoy looking at products under mostly naturalsunlight channeled in through special Solatubes,” says Leone. Outreach is also a keycomponent to the REI philosophy. The store features a customer gear donation bin, amonthly non-profit beneficiary and an interactive posting area where people can find ideas toget involved in work for local outdoor-focused non-profits.

BEST SPORTING GOODS STORE:Sports Authoritywww.sportsauthority.com, 3320 N. 28th St., Boulder, 303.449.9021301 Marshall Road, Superior, 303.554.01612251 Ken Pratt Blvd., Suite C, Longmont, 303.651.9697

BEST OUTDOOR RECREATION STORE:Neptune Mountaineeringwww.neptunemountaineering.com, 633 South Broadway, Suite A, Boulder, 303.499.8866

ThanksFormakingus thebest!

BoulderCountyGold2010

Boulder • Superior • Broomfieldwww.grtoys.com • Follow us on Facebook – http://facebook.grtoys.com

COMLIMENTARY GIFTWRAP

BOULDER4800 Baseline Rd. Ste. E108 • 303-499-3900

LONGMONT1515 N Main St. Ste. 15 • 303-776-8748

Thank you Boulder Countyfor all of your votes!

(Left to right)Joyce Funkenbusch Patient Care Coordinator,Kimberly Deffenbaugh Board-Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist,

and Whitney Swander Au.D. Owner, Doctor of Audiology

38 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST PLACE TO BUYWINDOW TREATMENTS(WITHIN COLORADO)

InnovativeOpenings Inc.www.innovativeopenings.com, 1672 30th St.,Boulder, 303.449.6465

With the intensity of Colorado’s sun, some daysthere’s nothing more important than a goodwindow covering. For that, more customers turnto Boulder’s Innovative Openings. While the30-year-old locally owned and independentlyoperated business in known for customized,high-quality window treatments, the company isbranching out into outdoor shading solutions. Inaddition to traditional retractable patio awnings,Innovative Openings will offer their own line ofinteresting and effective solar screen patio shades.They are also opening a new chapter of businessas an authorized service repair center for HunterDouglas, in addition to being one of the esteemedcompany’s largest suppliers. Offering in-homeconsultations and installations by InnovativeOpenings employees only, the company’s businessphilosophy is “all about customer service anddoing the right thing,” says co-owner Rick Pease.“We take as much control as possible to makesure we sell the right product for the right placefor the right reason.”

Cloth Constructions

www.clothconstructions.com, 3013 Walnut St.,Boulder, 303.449.2102

HONDA SUBARU TOYOTAh i g h t o u c h a u t o s e r v i c e

THANKYOU!!!

Open 7 Days a Week, 10am-5:30pm303.604.5353 5290 Arapahoe Road www.hospicecareonline.org

one of a f ind

Boulder’s BestResale/Thrift Shop

SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 39C A M E R A

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

Walters & Hogsett Fine Jewelerswww.waltersandhogsett.com, 2425 Canyon Blvd., Boulder, 303.449.2626

With 30 years and a massive, loyal following behind them, Walters & Hogsett Fine Jewelers has proven more than a Boulder landmark. Besides the company’s notable customer service andwide selection, Walters & Hogsett has given back to the community as generously and consistently as any business in town. Current recipients of such kindness run the gamut—fromelementary schools to major organizations such as Boulder Community Hospital, Hospice of Boulder & Broomfield County, Impact on Education, CU Presents and YWCA & YMCA. ButWalters & Hogsett knows it’s the customers that keep them in business year after year. “We are so grateful to our loyal clients who have supported us,” says co-owner Gail Vieregg. “We’vecontinued to be a part of their life’s celebrations because they appreciate our commitment to dedicated and knowledgeable service, and they see the familiar faces of our staff with whomthey’ve built relationships and friendships.” Besides a locally driven, personalized experience, repeat customers appreciate the shop’s careful balance of new and timeless jewelry collections andartists. Exciting upcoming offerings include Rhonda Faber Green’s dramatic diamond designs in gold or sterling; German-based Bastian Inverun’s playful and fashionable yet still affordablesterling silver jewelry; dramatic black and white diamond designs from Cheri Dori; and TW Steel’s still-popular oversized stainless steel watches.

BEST JEWELRYHurdle’s Jewelry, www.hurdlesjewelry.com, 1402 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.443.1084

BEST COMPANY/STORE THAT GIVES BACK TO THE COMMUNITYWhole Foods, www.wholefoodsmarket.com, 2905 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.545.6611; 2584 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.499.7636; 1275 Alpine, Boulder, 303.443.1354

BEST HOME FURNISHINGS STORE

HW Home1941 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.545.0320www.hwhome.com

One of HW Home co-owner Ron Werner’s favorite thingsis when he runs into customers around town and they tellhim they’re still in love with the furniture he sold them fiveor even 10 years ago. “That’s success – providing peoplemerchandise that stands the test of time in terms of qualityand style,” Werner says. He and partner Jim Hering openedthe first HW Home on Pearl Street in Boulder 11 yearsago. Since then the boutique has carved a niche by offeringurban-eclectic furnishings. HW Home also gives BoulderCounty residents a locally owned alternative to nationalchain stores that tend to stock their shelves with homog-enized merchandise. The home furnishings store has wonover locals by following a tried and true ethic of valuingits customers. “We’re not doing anything that complicated.We’re not inventing anything,” Werner says. “We’ve alwaysput our customer first. We’ve always worked hard to makesure our customer had a great experience.”

Clutter Consignment

1909 9th St., Boulder, 303.386.3423,www.clutterconsign.com

BEST PLACE TO BUY WINDOWS(WITHIN COLORADO)

SolarGlass Window & Doorwww.solarglass.com, 7123 Arapahoe Road, Boulder, 303.442.4277

It’s only fitting that Boulder County’s green-focused citizens votedSolarGlass Window & Door the Best Place to Buy Windows.When president and owner Gwenael Hagan and his wife boughtthe business four years ago what attracted him to the companywas the long tenure of the team and the quality of opera-tions. “Honestly, it is the people first and the products offeredsecond,” he says. “The staff at SolarGlass excel at helping peopleachieve window-purchase objectives. We listen, enjoy sharinginformation and take pride in the ‘quality of the customerexperience.’ I brought that phrase with me to SolarGlass, but theteam was already doing it.” On the product side, SolarGlass isequally interested in high quality. They distribute superior,American-made windows by Marvin, a 98-year-old company, andIntegrity by Marvin. SolarGlass is also introducing interior doorsfrom Denver-based manufacturer TruStile this fall. “I amparticularly excited about their replacement interior door panelsystem that upgrades the interior look of a home while guarantee-ing a perfect fit and a 15-minute replacement process,” says Hagan.

Pella Windows & Door

www.pella.com, 14175 E 42nd Ave., Boulder, 303.371.3750

40 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST EYE CARE STORE

Aspen Eyewear2525 Arapahoe Ave., Suite E-23, Boulder, 303.447.0210, www.aspeneyewear.com

Jennifer Ebner likes to joke that she was tricked into a career as a certified optician and office manager at Aspen Eyewearin Boulder. Truth is, Ebner loves working alongside her father, Heinz, in the family business. It’s allowed her to focus herteam of employees on meeting Boulder County’s vision needs. Aspen Eyewear has been in business for 25 years, and manycustomers have been loyal during most of that span. Eye examinations, prescriptions, contact lenses, glasses repair — usingtop-of-the-line equipment Aspen Eyewear offers the total vision package. What’s more, Aspen Eyewear does its own lensfinishing, which means the store can usually turn around a new lens order in one or two days. Ebner says the eyewear atAspen is “fashionable and functional.” But more than looking sharp and sharpening your vision, it’s the friendly and ef-ficient assistance that’s kept customers loyal to Aspen Eyewear for so many years. “Customer service, that’s our specialty,”Ebner says.

(TIE)

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

Envision Boulder1101 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.939.8021, www.envisionboulder.com

BEST SHOE STORE

Pedestrian Shops1425 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.449.5260, 2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.449.7440, www.comfortableshoes.com

Pedestrian Shops has been home to the world’s most comfortable brands of footwear for 40 years. Cushy Birkenstocks, elegantClarks, sporty Keens, colorful Crocs and funky Privos fill the store, as do countless other lines that have been sought out by theknowledgeable staff. “There is no ‘best’ for the general populace. Everyone is going to require something different,” says generalmanager Tony Distasi, explaining why his staff takes such great care in finding the right shoe for each customer. The key wordshere are fit, support, usage, comfort, style and excellent, unhurried service. “It reduces returns,” laughs Distasi. “People walk outwith exactly what they want. And then they want to shop here again.” Stop by Pedestrian Shops for Ugg’s fall boot line, Dansko’snew designs that feature a softer footbed and the much-buzzed-about Vibram 5 Fingers that must be worn to be believed.

Two Sole Sisters

1703 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.442.0404, www.twosolesisters.com

Lousville1387 S. Boulder RdLouisville, CO 80027720-890-5992

LONGMONT1749 Main StreetNext to Starbucks303-485-8834

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

www.glaglacieciericecreamricecream .com

Thanks to our loyal Glacier fans!Thanks to our loyal Glacier fans!We appreciate your support!We appreciate your support!

1350 CollegeBoulder, CO 80302(303) 442-4400

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

SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 41C A M E R A

BEST FLOOR COVERING STORE

Atlas Flooring, Inc.4920 28th St., Boulder, 303.442.3221

Thirty-four years ago, Leister Bowling walked into Atlas Flooring in Boulder and walkedout with his first job. He was 15 years old. Bowling now owns the floor-covering store, andhe makes sure Atlas is stocked with 400 to 500 rolls of carpet and 10 truckloads worth oftile most all the time. In addition, the store on 28th Street in Boulder carries a large array ofwood flooring, and accessory flooring material to suit most any residential or commercialflooring job. But Bowling says it’s his and the Atlas staff ’s dedication to treating people wellthat keeps the business swift. “We give people a really good value,” says Bowling. “I won’tlet anybody beat our price. If somebody comes to me and they’ve got some crazy price onsomething, I’ll beat it. And we don’t get greedy. Our margin stays the same, regardless if we’reswamped or if we’re slow.”

(TIE)

Magnus Anderson6367 Arapahoe Road, Boulder, 303.437.0610, www.magnusanderson.com

Star Flooring, Inc. & Design5785 Arapahoe Road, Unit D, Boulder, 303.443.9075, www.boulderstarflooring.com

Bat

istaellaV

303.938.1920

theacademyboulder.com

BUNGALOWS

INDEPENDENT APARTMENTS

ASSISTED LIVING SUITES

ASSISTED LIVING

ALZHEIMER’S CARE

PROUD RECIPIENT OF THE

ALZHEIMER’S FOUNDATION OF AMERICA

EXCELLENCE IN CARE AWARD

Two distinctive communities. Both unique. Both elegant. Both offering unparalleled service.

thank you Boulder!VOTED BEST OF BOULDER - 11 YEARS

42 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST GIFT SHOP

Bliss1643 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.443.0355www.blissboulder.com

The sales staff at Bliss, the locally owned gift boutiqueon Pearl Street in Boulder, likes to say Bliss is the perfectshop for daughter, mother and grandmother alike. But thetruth is, Bliss is a great stop for men in need of a gift forthe special women in their lives, too. “There are a lot ofmen who come and say, ‘This is my wife’s favorite shop,so I know I’m going to find something she likes here,”says Brittany Seieroe, sales associate at Bliss. “We help menfind a good gift.” Bliss offers an indulgent array of uniquewomen’s accessories, baby products, toys, candles, humor-ous books, home accents and jewelry. The store’s selectionof cards — from the sweet and sentimental to the edgyand humorous — is second to none. And, Seireoe says,there’s something to fit most any budget. “There’s a hugevariety,” she says, “but also a good range of prices. Youcan come in and get a really great gift for $50, and you canalso get an amazing gift for $10.”

Jacque Michelle

2670 Broadway, Boulder, 303.786.7628www.jacquemichelle.com

BEST HOUSEWARES ANDKITCHEN GOODS STORE

Peppercorn1235 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.449.5847, www.peppercorn.com

You may be the quintessential foodie in search of a Peu-geot Fontainbleau-style pepper mill to add to your kitchen-ware collection. Or you may be a clueless culinary soul whodoesn’t know your saffron from sassafras, looking for theperfect gift for your favorite cook. Either way, you’ve prob-ably spent time in Peppercorn, Boulder’s longtime favoritehousewares and kitchen goods store. “We have people whocome in and they only want a specific cookbook, and youcan’t sell them a different cookbook,” says Janice Manville,store assistant. “And then we get people who come in andsay, ‘I need help.’” Barware, bed and bath, dishes, cook-books, table linen, Peppercorn has a knack for knowingwhat a wide range of Boulder County residents want andneed. And that even includes what is likely the area’s largestcollection of specialty hot sauces. “That is really popu-lar,” Manville says. “I think most people buy them for thedecorative bottles.”

McGuckin Hardware

2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.443.1822www.mcguckin.com

BEST PET STORE/BAKERY/DELI AND BEST LOCALLY OWNED STORE

P.C.’s Pantry for Dogs and Catswww.pcspantry.com, 2600 30th St., Boulder, 303.245.9909

It’s probably not surprising to long-time customers—of the human or canine persuasion—that P.C.’s Pantry won in twodistinguished categories this year. From the start, this pet store/bakery/deli has focused on something Boulderites love:local. From biscuits made fresh in-house with locally purchased ingredients to its local ownership to its strict policy ofsourcing as much as possible from local providers, P.C.’s Pantry for Dogs and Cats is clearly a Boulder County favorite.That local promise translates to customer service as well. Chances are staff members know your dog or cat’s name as wellas yours when you visit with your furry friend. “There’s a positive energy that customers say they feel when they walk inthe store,” says owner Mary Lee Withers. “The fact that our employees have been with us so long gives our customersthe feeling that they are part of the P.C.’s family.” From special treats like Forrest’s Fabulous Parm Chicken biscuits andbarkday cakes to carefully selected healthy foods, toys and accessories, the store’s products reflect the passion P.C.’sexperienced and knowledgeable employees have for this special line of work. The store’s commitment to all things localalso extends to community service. P.C.’s provides monetary contributions to local nonprofits as well as food donationsto local shelters. When asked what our pets have to teach us, Withers responds with the clarity that underlies her store’scharm and attraction: “unconditional love, the true meaning of companionship and the ability to forgive.”

BEST PET STORE/BAKERY/DELI:Only Natural Pet Storewww.onlynaturalpet.com, 2100 28th St., # 1C, Boulder, 303.449.5069

BEST LOCALLY OWNED STORE:McGuckin Hardwarewww.mcguckin.com, 2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.443.1822

BEST HYDROPONICS STORE

Family Hydroponics2125 32nd St., Boulder, 303.996.6100, www.familyhydroponics-boulder.com

Family Hydroponics sure has made a splash since it opened this past June. In just four months, Family Hydroponics has become a hot spot for people interested in growing both indoorsand outdoors. The Boulder store caters to anyone, “from the very beginner to the experts,” says the store’s owner Carey Fields. Hydroponically grown food comes from plants nurtured ina controlled environment without soil. Head to Family Hydroponics 12,000-square-foot storefront in Boulder, and you’ll find the latest in indoor grow lighting, flood tables, plant nutrition,pest control and soils. The staff at Family Hydroponics can answer questions to the novice about hydroponic growing techniques, and explain the industry’s latest trends to the veteranindoor or outdoor grower. Family Hydroponics is known for their knowledgeable staff and wide range of products. As well, the store carries products for those interested in aeroponicgrowing – growing plants in an air and water-mist environment, but without soil. But that’s not all the store has to offer. Even the outdoor farmer can pick up a few pointers at FamilyHydroponics. “We cater to every type of grower,” says Fields.

Way to Grow

6395 Gunpark Drive, Boulder, 303.473.4769, www.waytogrow.net

SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 43C A M E R A

BEST HARDWARE STORE

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

Bet you can’t do it. Bet you can’t walk from one end to the other of McGuckin’s 60,000-square-foot store in Boulder without one of the hardware store’s nearly 300 friendlyemployees ask if they can help you find what you’re looking for. The staff at McGuckinhas been helping Boulder County people check off their around-the-house to-do lists sincethe iconic outlet opened in 1955. And sometimes the McGuckin staff members, alwaysdecked in their green vests, help customers discover what they didn’t know they needed.“Sometimes what a customer thinks they need might not best meet their need,” says RandyBarker, McGuckin Hardware marketing manager. “Somebody might approach a problemfrom the hardware department, when in reality something from the plumbing departmentmight fit the project. Our employees are knowledgeable enough to help people fill in thegaps there.” And it’s rare you won’t find what you’re looking for during a trip to McGuckin.

Home Depot

1600 29th St., Boulder, 303.449.4221, 393 S. Hover Road, Longmont, 720.494.03191200 W. Dillon Road, Louisville, 303.661.9600, www.homedepot.com

BEST FLORIST AND BEST GARDEN CENTERAND BEST PLANT NURSERY

Sturtz & Copeland2851 Valmont Rd., Boulder, 303.442.6663, www.sturtzandcopeland.com

You can tell a lot about a place of business by the general mood of its employees.Take Sturtz & Copeland for example, the locally owned store that has been offer-ing floral, garden and plant service to Boulder County since 1929. Assistant man-ager Hannah Upham has been working at Sturtz & Copeland for seven years. Andshe still loves coming to work every morning. “It’s so fun,” Upham says. “It’s freshand growing, and you’re working with plants every day. All the co-workers here arejust lovely. It’s a pretty incredible work environment.” Whether you’re planning awedding or just need an “I love you” bouquet, looking to get your garden in shapefor growing season or wanting to add living greenery to your indoor or outdoorenvironment, Sturtz and Copeland is a one-stop shop. And in the near future,the one-stop plant store plans to grow its list of how-to classes. “We are going tohave fall classes,” Upham says. “Anything from creating gourd creatures to makingcenterpieces to wreath-making in the holiday season.”

BEST FLORISTFiori Flowers2620 Broadway, Boulder, 720.565.2434, www.fioriboulder.com

BEST GARDEN CENTER AND BEST PLANT NURSERYHarlequin’s Gardens4795 N. 26th St., Boulder, 303.939.9403, www.harlequinsgardens.com

BEST GROCERY STORE

Whole Foods2905 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.545.6611; 1275 Alpine Ave., Boulder, 303.443.1354;2584 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.499.7636; 303 Marshall Rd., Superior, 720.274.1415www.wholefoodsmarket.com

Hard to believe Whole Foods, the nation’s No. 1 natural products grocer, celebrated its 30thyear in business in 2010. Though the upscale grocer is headquartered in Austin, Texas, itdoes a great job of bringing a local focus to its Boulder County locations. Whether it’s join-ing with local schools for fundraising projects or healthy-lunch initiatives, or making roomon its shelves for locally produced goods, Whole Foods is dedicated to bringing a nativeflavor to each of its stores. Among the many local companies whose goods and produceare sold at Whole Foods are Boulder Ice Cream, Evol Burritos, Full Circle Farm, HaystackMountain Goat Dairy and Justin’s Nut Butter. In addition, Whole Foods’ Whole Trade lineof products is dedicated to engaging in fair-trade practices with manufacturers in the devel-oping world. In the near future, Boulder County shoppers will be able to enjoy an expandedWhole Foods, when renovations are completed on the grocer’s Pearl Street location.

Sunflower Farmers Market

2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.449.0777, www.sfmarkets.com

44 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST IMPORTED GOODS STORE

Cost Plus World Market1685 28th St., Boulder, 303.938.0757, www.worldmarket.com

Teardrop earrings from India. Indonesian batik scarves. Balinese jasmine Eau de Toilette sprays. Carolina hickorybarbecue smoking wood chips. Miniature German sausages. Swiss chocolates. Tea biscuits from the UnitedKingdom. You don’t have to rack up airline miles to find unique goods from around the globe when you live inBoulder County. World Market has a dizzying variety of home décor, kitchen, bed, bath, food and drink itemsfrom both exotic and red-white-and-blue locales. Though owned by national chain retailer Cost Plus, the localWorld Market, nestled on 28th Street in Boulder, caters to what area shoppers are looking for. “We do some ofour own ordering because we know what Boulderites like,” says assistant manager Desney Cherry. “We stock ourgourmet goods by what sells here.” On weekends, check out the World Market tiki bar, where clerks offer freesamples of some of the stores fine edibles.

Indochine Home Import

2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.444.7734, www.indochinehomeimport.com

BEST TREE NURSERY

The Tree Farm11868 Mineral Road, Longmont, 303.652.2961, www.thetreefarmlongmont.com

Anyone who has toiled in the Colorado soil knows the Front Range isn’t easy on the local landscaper. “It’sprobably one of the most difficult climates to plant trees and shrubs,” says Mike Gittleson, manager at TheTree Farm in Longmont. With 40 acres of land to plant and nurture its stock, and a knowledgeable staff of62 nursery professionals, The Tree Farm is a best friend to anyone looking to add handsome greenery toan outdoor environment. Whether you’re outfitting your outdoors with a new batch of trees, or you needadvice on dealing with ailing plants, The Tree Farm staff can help. “People come in here specifically becauseof the knowledge and expertise the staff has,” Gittleson says. And they travel to The Tree Farm because ofits selection, too. “We offer the largest selection of Colorado hearty trees, shrubs and perennials in the FrontRange, at good prices,” Gittleson adds.

Harlequin's Gardens

4795 N. 26th St., Boulder, 303.939.9403, www.harlequinsgardens.com

• Buy Today, Sleep on it Tonight!• Free Same-Day Local Delivery• Urban Mattress is Eco-Friendly,

2% of your purchase goes to localcharities.

BOULDER2830 Arapahoe Ave.

(Just east of 28th on Arapahoe)303.440.0288

DENVER/CHERRY CREEK745 S. Colorado Blvd.

(in Belcaro Center)303.953.2992

HIGHLANDS RANCH1265 Sgt. Jon Stiles Drive, Suite L(Town Center North next to Super Target)

303.470.9228

PARK MEADOWS8283 South Akron Street, Suite 110

(E. County Line and S. Yosemite)303.790.6073

www.urbanmattress.com

Thank You For Voting For Us!

SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 45C A M E R A

BEST ANTIQUE JEWELRY STORE

Classic Facets Antique Jewelry942 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.938.8851, www.classicfacets.com

Classic Facets is celebrating its 25th year of business, and owner Mikki Rainey couldn’t bemore thrilled. “I would like to say thank you to the City of Boulder and the people whohave been so supportive of us, even during tough times,” she says. Classic Facets is home tomore than 20,000 pieces of antique and vintage jewelry from consignors in 37 states and 10countries. The majority is fine jewelry from the 1700s through the 1950s – authenticatedantique diamond engagement rings, cameos, pearls, filigree, Victorian, Georgian, Edwardianand Art Deco items – but the store is broadening its horizons this year by sponsoring newwork by four local jewelry designers and carrying some contemporary accessories forwomen. “You have to change or die. And I’m not done yet,” laughs Rainey. She and herstaff are also working hard to adjust price points to match their clients’ more modestbudgets. “It’s really nice to look at $50,000 pins, but nobody has that kind of moneyanymore,” notes Rainey. “We look around the store and say what can we do to make peoplehappy and have things that people can afford?” Classic Facets is well positioned for another25 years of recycling love through one-of-a-kind antique and vintage jewelry.

Bedell & Co.

767 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.939.9292, www.bedellandco.com

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

Thank you for your 27 years of loyal support!We’re looking forward to many more years of serving you,

your family and friends.

1136 Pearl Street303.938.0330www.boulderjapango.com

THAN K YOUTHAN K YOUT O ALL THE VOT ERS !T O ALL THE VOT ERS !

To Celebra te :To Celebra te :Tex t SUSH ITex t SUSH It o 48696t o 48696

see what happens . . .see what happens . . .

46 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST ANTIQUE DEALER

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

Judy Lesta had a huge estate sale 13 years ago. She sold all her possessions in three weeksand moved to Spain. And she thoroughly enjoyed the process – the people she met duringthe sale, the stories she heard, the wheeling and dealing. “I thought, boy, if I ever come backto Boulder, that’s what I want to do for a living,” says Lesta. It came to pass just a year later,and Lesta now helms what is essentially an estate sale that never ends. The Amazing GarageSale is open seven days a week and has been going strong for more than 11 years. Lesta’sempire has expanded to five warehouses, allowing plenty of space for furniture, home décor,art, jewelry and countless treasures that defy categorization. The most popular items at themoment are mid-century Danish modern pieces. “Vintage, retro, cool-looking furniture,”explains Lesta. “It comes in and goes out quickly.” The Amazing Garage Sale is also home topieces from big-name furniture manufacturers like Knoll, Cherner, Eames and HermanMiller, among others. Lesta often lends her expertise to those seeking help with their ownestate sales, but most of her wares come through the door on consignment. “People tend tocling onto things [they don’t use] because of memories – they’ve got a personal, emotionalattachment. But my feeling is, it’s better to let the things go. Sell them and use the money todo something nice for yourself,” she encourages. And just in case you need another nudge,Lesta will give anyone who brings a copy of this article to the store 10 percent off anyregular price item.

Bedell & Co.

767 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.939.9292, www.bedellandco.com

BEST ART GALLERY

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

“It’s been an honor to celebrate the community and our artists and clients this past year, allof whom are obviously the secret of our success,” says Art & Soul Gallery owner DebbieKlein. The gallery has showcased unique, thought-provoking paintings, sculpture, mixedmedia and jewelry for 10 years now, enriching our daily aesthetic and elevating the local artscene. But for Klein, it’s a decidedly personal process. “I’m my own best customer,” sheadmits, claiming that she can’t pick just one when I ask her to name a favorite piece. After along pause, she name-checks homegrown jewelry artisan Margery Hirschey and Coloradoartist Ethan Jantzer’s new botanical work. Her hesitation is understandable; Art & Soul isfilled with consistently amazing pieces year-round. First Fridays are a great time to stop byif you haven’t been to the gallery in a while. The October 1 event will feature Boulderfavorite Mark Soppeland’s lighted sculptures. The last First Friday of the year on December3 will be the gallery’s 10 for 10 event – a culmination of its 10th anniversary celebration,featuring one-of-a-kind works from Art & Soul’s top 10 artists to benefit Boulder CountyAIDS Project.

(TIE)

Mary Williams Fine Arts2116 Pearl St., Unit C, Boulder, 303.938.1588, www.marywilliamsfinearts.com

Smith Klein Gallery1116 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.7200, www.smithklein.com

BEST ART SUPPLY & HOBBY STORE

Michaels4800 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.494.2008; 410 Marshall Road, Superior, 720.304.3224;205 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont, 720.494.2673; www.michaels.com

Several of my friends are scrapbooking geniuses. Their photo albums look like art, andthey each tout Michaels as THE place for finding innovative papers, stamps, inks and othertools of the trade that sound completely mystifying to me. I have other pals who maketheir own jewelry and/or knit astounding wearable creations (their birthday presents arealways my favorites). They, too, are regular Michaels shoppers. As you may have gathered, Iam less than gifted in the crafts arena. That’s why I rely on Michaels more than all myfriends combined. The store houses a wealth of creative project ideas – from fine art tokid’s art, home décor to holiday flare, framing to event planning – and the staff iswell-versed enough to take on expert questions while being patient enough to fieldinquiries like “That looks cool. What is it?” Michaels.com is also a treasure trove, withcountless suggestions, techniques and an online community of active crafters.

Guiry’s Color Source

2404 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.3800, www.guirys.com

BEST BEDDING/LINENS/MATTRESS STORE

Verlo Mattress Factory3080 Valmont Road, Boulder, 303.447.1154, www.verlo.com

The bulk of Verlo Mattress Factory’s business comes from repeat customers, a fact thatwas illustrated five minutes after I contacted the store. “I wish you could have heard thatcall,” said sales associate Willis Dallborf after assisting a client who used to live in the areaand now lives in Nevada. “He wants to have a Verlo shipped to Reno.” Dallborf has beenwith the locally owned company for nine years and sees this sort of thing all the time.Verlo mattresses are built in the factory – right here in Boulder – from high quality,American components and are guaranteed for a minimum of five years. Verlo craftsmenmake a variety of mattress styles, all thoroughly tested for comfort and support, and allavailable for on-site customer testing in the spacious showroom. Best of all, each set ismade to order. “If you want something a little different, let us know and we’ll make it so,”enthuses Dallborf. In fact, they’ll make it so up to a year after the fact. If you sleep onyour mattress for a while and decide you’d like it a little softer or firmer, Verlo will pick itup, bring it back to the factory and make a comfort adjustment for free.

(TIE)

Denver Mattress Co.1945 28th St., Boulder, 303.413.1314; 2201Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont, 303.774.1150, www.furniturerow.com

Urban Mattress2830 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.440.0288, www.urbanmattress.com

SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 47C A M E R A

BEST CAMERA STORE

Mike’s Camera2500 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.443.1715, www.mikescamera.com

Mike’s Camera has been the local favorite for industry professionals and amateur camerabuffs alike since 1967. The store stocks the largest selection of photographic and videoequipment in Colorado, including an impressive selection of rentals. It offers a full line ofphoto processing services, including the latest in digital cameras and digital camera printingkiosks. Its repair shop can fix just about any model of equipment (assuming the parts can befound) and is the only non-factory service center in the United States that offers a fullone-year warranty on nonprofessional-use 35mm equipment. But it’s the people who reallymake Mike’s Camera shine. In testimonial after testimonial, customers praise the expertiseand friendliness of the staff – one who stayed late to finish a family heirloom project, onewho spent hours helping a client find the right digital camera, one who went above andbeyond the call of duty to facilitate a repair. This is the kind of customer service thatgenerates unswerving loyalty. Mike’s low price and seven-day satisfaction guarantees are justicing on the cake.

Jones General Store and Camera

1370 College Ave., Boulder, 303.443.4420, www.jonesgeneral.com

ThankYou, Boulder dog lovers

2900 Valmont, E2 • Zarlengo Plaza, Boulder303-442-7550

for your votesfor Best of Boulder

this year!We appreciate your support and loyalty andlook forward to serving you in the future.

Your friends at the HydrantJoy Bishop – Owner

Elisha, Valerie, Lori, Sergio

48 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

BEST BICYCLE SHOP

University Bicycles839 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.4196, www.ubikes.com

University Bicycles got its start in a basement on Pearl Street. After 25 years in business, it’s the oldest bike shop intown. It’s also the most fun, according to our voters. “We are a passionate group of cyclists, and when you come intoour store, we will be there with a smile, ready to help in any way we can,” says general manager Lester Binegar. “Wehandle rentals, commuters, kids, mountain bikers and roadies.” The store is home to a proficient service departmentthat will have your ride repaired by the end of the next day, if not sooner. Bicycles ranging from standard to highperformance are available to rent. And if you’re in the market for a new bike, the experienced staff can help you findone that fits your needs as well as your body. “We do a pre-fit assessment which allows us to understand your cyclinggoals and test your flexibility. Then we take a look at you on your bike and make adjustments as necessary,” explainsBinegar. “Afterwards, you get to see yourself on video. This shows you the changes we made and how they will affectyour riding.” Now that’s full service.

Full Cycle

1795 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.440.1002; 1211 13th St., Boulder, 303.440.7771, www.fullcyclebikes.com

BEST BOOKSTORE

Boulder Book Store1107 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.447.2074, www.boulderbookstore.com

The times have not been kind to bookstores. In the age of amazon.com and downloadable books, retail booksellersboth large and small have fallen by the wayside. Boulder Book Store, on the other hand, has been going strong since1973. The impressive number of titles – more than 100,000 strategically placed within the 20,000-square-foot facility– as well as the availability of used books and the central downtown location all help set Boulder Book Store apartfrom its competitors. But it’s the connection to our community that keeps customers coming back again and again tobrowse the shelves. Local and regional authors are prominently featured, both in bestseller displays and in-storeappearances. Writing workshops and other community events are held here. Sections are tailored to local interests suchas sustainability and spirituality. And friendly staff members are always on hand to help navigate the stacks, offerpersonal recommendations, take special orders and even find out-of-print books.

(TIE)

Barnes & Noble, 2999 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.0349, www.barnesandnoble.comBorders, 1750 29th St., Boulder, 720.565.8266; 1101 South Hover Road, Longmont, 303.684.6446, www.borders.com

Thank youfor yoursupportBoulder!

SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 49C A M E R A

BEST CHILDREN’S STORE

Grandrabbit’s Toy Shoppe2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.443.0780; 300 Center Drive, Suite C, Superior, 303.499.0780; www.grtoys.com

Grandrabbit’s Toy Shoppe was named after a woman whose children called her Rabbit. When her children hadchildren, she became Grandrabbit. Everything about this independently owned store is as charming and personal asthis story, from the layout that encourages creative play to the employees who are equipped with extensive toyknowledge as well as contagious smiles. Grandrabbit’s has been encouraging Boulder County’s imagination since 1977with hand-chosen educational and fun toys. Classic toys that parents remember from their childhoods are plentiful– wood blocks, pretend cash registers, fishing games, pull toys, Lincoln Logs, Legos, feeding dolls and more. You’llalso find an ample supply of the hottest new offerings – balance bikes, letter games, science kits, role-playing games,building sets and beyond. No matter the age, stage or season, Grandrabbit’s Toy Shoppe has a plaything that willbring happiness and learning to its recipient.

Childish Things Consignment Boutique

3183 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.442.2703, www.childishthingsconsign.com

BEST CONSIGNMENT STORE

Rags To Riches3129 28th St., Boulder, 303.440.5758, www.iloverags.com

When you score a brand-name designer blouse that retailed at $125for less than $20, you know you’ve found home. At Rags ToRiches, looking fabulous comes with a very manageable price tag.And there’s never been a better time to hit the racks. “In thehistory of the store, we’ve never had more merchandise,” enthusesowner Margaret Miner. “I have about 4,000 items on the floor, andwe put 200 to 300 new items out every day.” She and her staffhand select every piece based on brand, design and condition (only“almost new” will do). If you’re overwhelmed by the selection orjust want some expert input, make an appointment with Rags’personal shopper Holly. She’ll meet you in the store for a couple ofhours and help you put pieces together – all for free. “People arejust thrilled with the results,” says Miner. “They come away with awhole new wardrobe.” Holiday wardrobe overhauls are alsoeminently affordable at Rags. “Our dresses are around $30, so youcan get several outfits for several different occasions and feel OKabout it all.”

Clutter Consignment

1909 9th St., Boulder, 303.386.3423, www.clutterconsign.com

BEST RECYCLED GOODS/THRIFT STORE

Saverswww.savers.com, 695 South Broadway, Boulder, 303.499.6978

Picture 20,000 square feet of pure fashion experimentation. That’sSavers. For diehards who shop near-daily to the occasional customerwho discovers a trend-setting gem, Savers offers the adventure ofthe hunt and the beauty of the thrifty find. The departmentstore-style thrift shop places a remarkable 6,000 items on rack dailyfrom local non-profit partners the Denver Children’s AdvocacyCenter and the Epilepsy Foundation, plus truckloads of randomremnants from other non-profit donations from around thecountry, according to manager Brian Sanchez. The sheer volume ofSaver’s recycled goods should be of interest to any environmentallyconscious citizen. “Last year we recycled a million pounds inBoulder alone,” says Sanchez. While Savers does have competitionin the thrift store category, “no one can match my selection,” saysSanchez proudly. There are also few thrift stores that can matchSaver’s new and used Halloween selection or its popular in-storepromotions like 20% off for college students on Tuesdays andMonday’s double deal: 99 cent items and 50% off select items. With“thrifting” becoming trendier than ever, watch for new Saver’sfashion shows, featuring full outfits for $20.

Hospice Care & Share Thrift Shop

www.hospicecareonline.org, 5290 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder,303.604.5353

BEST COSTUME STORE

The Ritzwww.theritzcostumes.com, 959 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.443.2850

The Ritz has been dressing up the town for 33 years. From the same location, this year-round costume shopserves up traditional to outrageous outfits for all types of Boulder County’s party-goers. With its upbeatatmosphere some consider The Ritz the party before the party. “I’m always pleased to see so many people ofall ages shopping and totally getting into the experience,” says owner Susan Nutting. “Boulderites reallyembrace Halloween as a fabulous holiday and live it fully.” The shop prepares all year for its biggest holiday,scouting the most exciting, disarmingly fun and crazy costumes, wigs, boas, sunglasses, makeup and accesso-ries. “All our costumes can be tried on—no plastic bags to peer through,” says Nutting. “You know whatyou’re getting and you can perfect your costume down to the last detail.” Whether you rent or buy a costume,the “Ritzies,” aka The Ritz’s creative, friendly and knowledgeable staff, can help you put it all together. Someof this year’s hottest costumes are Lady GaGa, 80’s rocker, Mad Men, Alice in Wonderland, Mad Hatter,vampires ala True Blood and Twilight, Avatar and Michael Jackson, says Nutting.

Theatrical Costumes Etc! and Trendy Boutique

www.theatricalcostumesetc.com, 669 S. Broadway, Boulder, 303.440.8515

50 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A

& Trendy Boutique&

699 S. BroadwayTable Mesa Shopping Center

303.440.8515www.theatricalcostumes.com

OPEN YEAR ROUND!10:00am - 7:00pm seven days a weekHolidays: hours extended to 9:00pm

Thank you,Boulder, for

voting usRunner-up

Best CostumeStore!

Thanks to all our members, employees and the communityfor honoring BVCU with three outstanding Boulder CountyPeople’s Choice Awards this year!

Best Local EmployerBest Financial Institution*Best Customer Service*

Haven’t already discovered Boulder Valley Credit Union;come see what all the accolades are about!Anyone can join. Everyone can benefit.*Runner Up

WeCareColorad

o .co meco

™

signup.savebig.

SEPTEMBER 2010 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 51C A M E R A

2010 Boulder County GOLD PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS Winners

EATSBEST ALL YOU CAN EAT AND BEST SUSHIJapangoRU for Best All You Can Eat: The TajRU for Best Sushi: Hapa SushiBEST BREAKFAST AND BEST BRUNCHLucile’s Creole CafeRU for Best Breakfast: Walnut CaféRU for Best Brunch: Brasserie Ten TenBEST AMERICAN RESTAURANTThe Kitchen(TIE) RU:Turley’s AND Boulder ChopHouse & TavernBEST BAKERYBreadworks CafeRU: Spruce ConfectionsBEST BARThe West End TavernRU: Bitter BarBEST BARBECUEThe Rib HouseRU: KT’s BarbecueBEST CATERERA Spice of LifeRU: Dish GourmetBEST CHINESE RESTAURANTChina GourmetRU: Golden LotusBEST COFFEEHOUSEVic’sRU: StarbucksBEST DELISalvaggio’s DelicatessenRU: Snarf’sBEST HAMBURGERLarkburgerRU: Rueben’s Burger BistroBEST ICE CREAM/FROZEN YOGURTGlacier Home Made Ice Cream & GelatoRU: Cold Stone CreameryBEST INDIAN RESTAURANTThe TajRU: Tandoori GrillBEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT AND BEST PLACE FORA ROMANTIC DINNERCarelli’s of Boulder Ristorante ItalianoRU for Best Italian Restaurant: Laudisio Italian RestaurantRU for Best Place for a Romantic Dinner:Flagstaff House RestaurantBEST LATE-NIGHT RESTAURANTThe Corner BarRU: Cosmo’s PizzaBEST MEXICAN RESTAURANTEfrain’s MexicanRU: Agave Mexico Bistro & Tequila HouseBEST NEW RESTAURANTAgave Mexico Bistro & Tequila HouseRU: SaltBEST OUTDOOR DINING AND BEST APPETIZERS ANDHAPPY HOURMediterranean Restaurant (The Med)RU for Best Outdoor Dining: Rio Grande MexicanRestaurant (The Rio)RU for Best Appetizers: Brasserie Ten TenRU for Best Happy Hour: Brasserie Ten TenBEST PIZZAAbo’s PizzaRU: Proto’s PizzaBEST SEAFOODJax Fish HouseRU: Red LobsterBEST THAIKhow Thai CafeRU: Elephant Hut Thai GrillBEST TAKE-OUT FOOD (TIE)Khow Thai Cafe AND Snarf’sRU: Chez ThuyBEST VEGETARIAN RESTAURANTLeaf Vegetarian RestaurantRU: Elephant Hut Thai GrillBEST VIETNAMESE RESTAURANTChez Thuy Vietnamese RestaurantRU: Black Pepper Pho Vietnamese Noodles & BarBEST GUNBARREL/NIWOT RESTAURANTColterra Food and WineRU: Treppeda’s Italian RistoranteBEST LAFAYETTE/LOUISVILLE/ERIE/SUPERIORRESTAURANTThe Empire Lounge and RestaurantRU: Efrain’s Mexican

BEST LONGMONT/LYONS RESTAURANTOskar Blues BreweryRU: SugarbeetBEST DESSERTThe Cheesecake FactoryRU: Glacier Home Made Ice Cream & GelatoBEST RESTAURANT SERVICEFrasca Food and WineRU: Flagstaff House RestaurantBEST RESTAURANT TO BRING KIDSRed Robin Gourmet BurgersRU: The Southern Sun Brewery and RestaurantBEST PLACE TO HEAR LIVE MUSICBoulder TheaterRU: Fox Theatre (The Fox)BEST THEATER PERFORMANCEBoulder Dinner TheatreRU: The Colorado Shakespeare FestivalBEST BOULDER COUNTY EVENTBoulder Creek Festival(TIE) RU:Bolder Boulder AND Boulder County Farmers’ Market

SERVICESBEST A/C/HEATINGPrecision Plumbing & HeatingRU: Save Home Heat Co.BEST AUTO DEALERFlatirons Acura/SubaruRU: Fisher Honda and KiaBEST AUTO REPAIRHoshi MotorsRU: Pellman’s Automotive ServiceBEST CAR WASHPuddle Car WashRU: Black Diamond Car WashBEST CARPET CLEANING SERVICENesheim Cleaning Services, Inc.RU: Chem-Dry of BoulderBEST KIDS’ DAY CAMPYMCA of Boulder ValleyRU: Mountain Day Camp AND Rocky Mountain Day CampBEST FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONElevations Credit Union(TIE) RU: Boulder Valley Credit UnionBEST DENTISTDr. Ted Kawulok, Whole Family Dentistry(TIE) RU: Dr. Joel L. Schaffer AND Dr. James E. EhrlichBEST DRY CLEANER/LAUNDROMATArt CleanersRU: John’s CleanersBEST PLACE TO WORK OUTRallySport Health and Fitness Club(TIE) RU: Flatiron Athletic Club AND Colorado Athletic ClubBEST PILATES/YOGA CENTERCorePower YogaRU: Yoga PodBEST HAIR SALONThe Parlour(TIE) RU FIX Hair Salon AND Salon SalonBEST HEARING AID CENTERFamily Hearing CentersRU: Boulder Valley Hearing AssociatesBEST HOLISTIC CARE/WELLNESS CENTERFrasier Meadows Health Care CenterRU: AcupunctureWorksBEST INTERIOR DESIGN STUDIOBartlett InteriorsRU: Design Matters Inc.BEST LASIK/LASER EYE FACILITY/SURGEONBeyer Laser Center(TIE) RU – Insight Lasik AND Boulder Eye SurgeonsBEST MEDICAL FACILITYBoulder Community HospitalRU: Boulder Medical CenterBEST MOVING COMPANYTaylor Moving and Storage LLCRU: Two Men and a TruckBEST PET BOARDING SERVICECottonwood KennelsRU: Broadway Animal Hospital and Pet CenterBEST PET GROOMING SERVICEThe HydrantRU: Broadway Animal Hospital and Pet CenterBEST VETERINARIANBroadway Animal Hospital and Pet CenterRU: Alpine Hospital for AnimalsBEST PLACE FOR WORSHIPFlatirons Community ChurchRU: Unity of Boulder

BEST FUNERAL HOME SERVICE PROVIDERCrist Mortuary & CrematoryRU: M.P. Murphy & Associates Funeral HomeBEST REAL ESTATE AGENTPaul Roach, RE/MAX of BoulderRU (Tie): Gail Mock, Mock RealtyAND Suzannah Shogren, Eighty 30 RealtyBEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY/OFFICERE/MAX of BoulderRU: Wright-Kingdom Real EstateBEST RETIREMENT/ALTERNATIVEOR ELDER CARE/ASSISTED LIVINGThe AcademyRU: Frasier Meadows Retirement CommunityBEST BOULDER VALLEY/ST. VRAIN SCHOOLBoulder High SchoolRU: Fairview High SchoolBEST TEACHERDoug London, Alexander Dawson School(Tie) RU: Dan Felknor, Monarch High SchoolAND Brenda Taylor, Centennial Middle SchoolBEST SPAEssentiels SpaRU: St. Julien Hotel & SpaBEST SKINCARE FACILITYLaser & Cosmetic AssociatesRU: Essentiels SpaBEST STORAGE FACILITYU Store ItRU: Boulder Bins Self StorageBEST TANNING SALONTans To GoRU: VerandaSunBEST TRAVEL AGENCYJames TravelPointsRU: Cain TravelBEST PLACE TO ENTERTAIN KIDSPearl Street MallRU: Gateway Park Fun CenterBEST LOCAL EMPLOYERBoulder Valley Credit UnionRU: Boulder Community HospitalBEST NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONHumane Society of Boulder Valley(Tie) for RU - Intercambio de Comunidades ANDEmergency Family Assistance AssociationBEST ACTIVIST/COMMUNITY CHAMPIONLee Shainis, Founder Intercambio de Comunidades(Tie) for RU: Robin Bolduc AND Josie Heath, TheCommunity Foundation Serving Boulder County.BEST CUSTOMER SERVICEMcGuckin HardwareRU: Boulder Valley Credit Union

SHOPPERSBEST ANTIQUE DEALERThe Amazing Garage SaleRU: Bedell & Co.BEST ANTIQUE JEWELRY STOREClassic Facets Antique JewelryRU: Bedell & Co.BEST ART GALLERYArt & Soul GalleryRU (Tie): Mary Williams Fine Arts AND Smith Klein GalleryBEST ART SUPPLY & HOBBY STOREMichaelsRU: Guiry's Color SourceBEST BEDDING/LINENS/MATTRESS STOREVerlo Mattress FactoryRU (Tie): Denver Mattress Co. AND Urban MattressBEST BICYCLE SHOPUniversity BicyclesRU: Full CycleBEST BOOKSTOREBoulder BookstoreRU (Tie): Barnes & Noble AND BordersBEST CHILDREN’S STOREGrandrabbit’s Toy ShoppeRU: Childish Things Consignment BoutiqueBEST CAMERA STOREMike's CameraRU: Jones General Store and CameraBEST CONSIGNMENT STORERags To RichesRU: Clutter ConsignmentBEST MEN’S CLOTHING STOREThe RegimentRU: Weekends

BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING STOREJJ WellsRU: Barbara & CompanyBEST SHOE STOREPedestrian ShopsRU: Two Sole SistersBEST EYE CARE STOREAspen EyewearRU (Tie): Wink Optical AND Envision BoulderBEST FLOOR COVERING STOREAtlas Flooring, Inc.RU (Tie):Magnus Anderson AND Star Flooring, Inc. & DesignBEST FLORIST AND BEST GARDEN CENTER ANDBEST PLANT NURSERYSturtz & CopelandRU for Best Florist: Fiori FlowersRU for Best Garden Center AND Best Plant Nursery:Harlequin’s GardensBEST TREE NURSERYThe Tree FarmRU: Harlequin's GardensBEST PLANT NURSERYSturtz & CopelandRU: Harlequin's GardensBEST GIFT SHOPBlissRU: Jacque MichelleBEST GREEN PRODUCTS/SERVICES STOREEllie's Eco Home StoreRU: Cartridge WorldBEST GROCERY STOREWhole FoodsRU: Sunflower Farmers MarketBEST HARDWARE STOREMcGuckin HardwareRU: Home DepotBEST HOME FURNISHINGS STOREHW HomeRU: Clutter ConsignmentBEST HOUSEWARES & KITCHEN GOODS STOREPeppercornRU: McGuckin HardwareBEST HYDROPONICS STOREFamily HydroponicsRU: Way to GrowBEST IMPORTED GOODS STORE:Cost Plus World MarketRU: Indochine Home ImportBEST LIQUOR STORE:Liquor MartRU (Tie): Superior Liquor AND North Boulder LiquorBEST PLACE TO BUY MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS:Robb's Boulder MusicRU: H.B. Woodsong’sBEST PET STORE/BAKERY/DELIAND BEST LOCALLY OWNED STOREP.C.’s Pantry for Dogs and CatsRU for Best Pet Store/Bakery/Deli: Only Natural Pet StoreRU for Best Locally Owned Store: McGuckin HardwareBEST RECYCLED GOODS/THRIFT STORESaversRU: HospiceCare & Share Thrift ShopBEST RUNNING STOREBoulder Running CompanyRU: Fleet FeetBEST SPORTING GOODS STORE AND BEST OUTDOORRECREATION STORE Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI)RU for Best Sporting Good Store: Sports AuthorityRU for Best Outdoor Recreation Store:Neptune MountaineeringBEST PLACE TO BUY CUSTOM COUNTER TOPSMoros FabricationRU: Atlas FlooringBEST PLACE TO BUY WINDOWS (WITHIN COLORADO)SolarGlass Window & DoorRU: Pella Windows & DoorBEST PLACE TO BUY WINDOW TREATMENTS(WITHIN COLORADO)Innovative Openings Inc.RU: Cloth ConstructionsBEST SHOPPING DESTINATION (WITHIN COLORADO)Pearl Street MallRU: FlatIron CrossingBEST JEWELERY STORE AND BEST COMPANY/STORETHAT GIVES BACK TO THE COMMUNITYWalters & Hogsett Fine JewelersRU for Best Jewelry: Hurdles’s JewelryRU for Best Company/Store that GivesBack to the Community: Whole FoodsBEST COSTUME STOREThe RitzRU: Theatrical Costumes Etc! and Trendy Boutique

52 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER 2010C A M E R A