– BEST OF... 2007 WINNERS! –
Congratulations!

by Jacque Scott

MOUNTAIN CONNECTION TOP 10 WINNER
—CHOW DOWN PET SUPPLIES—
3719 North Evergreen Parkway • Evergreen
303.674.8711

Ashley Burggraf holding adoptable cats Butch and Sundance in front of the Chow Down Cat Room

Chow Down Pet Supplies is for the dogs! And the cats. And the horses. And the hamsters. And all the people who care for and love animals.

Chow Down is a virtual pet village. There’s a special room for adoptable cats from the Evergreen Animal Protective League. Meet the homeless kitties and see if one is the “purr”-fect campanion for you.

There’s a pet bakery. Deb’s K-9 Kookies makes and sells her own healthy pet foods and treats. Get something yummy for that four-legged creature waiting for you at home.
Owner Jay Henry and Chow Down were honored in 2006 by the readers of the Mountain Connection as the best long-time business. It’s been serving the animal supply needs of the mountain communities for a dozen years.

This year, Mountain Connection readers voted Chow Down a 2008 Top Ten! Chow Down was the top vote getter—the top of the Top Ten. “I’m honored,” said Jay.

It is not just the friendly, knowledgable staff at Chow Down that make it a favorite with readers, it’s service—community service. Jay’s advertisements promote animal related nonprofits and solicit loving homes for homeless animals. Chow Down also contributes pet food, cat litter, bedding, etc. to shelters—but it goes beyond animals.

“Common courtesy to all living things is my mantra.”

Jay salutes his parents. “I was a little hyperactive, a bit ADD,” he admitted. “My parents taught me how to learn and supported me. Very early on Mom remembers me bringing animals home and trying to rehabilitate them. I took a rehabilitation course when I was 13 and got my wildlife rehabilitation license at age 14.”

When he realized it was time to leave his Georgia home, Jay packed a duffle bag, went to the airport and asked what flights were available. A flight was leaving for Denver. The rest is history.

He worked with the original owners of Chow Down and, in 2002, became the sole owner. Last year, he opened a second store in Fairplay.

He and his wife, Kelly, have a 16-month-old daughter. “I love her so much. I can’t imagine not having her. Kelly and I thought of adopting, but…I don’t know what I would do without her!”

Jay credits the greater Evergreen community for making Chow Down successful. “Mountain people love their pets. Pets are not just backyard creatures; they are family members.”

MOUNTAIN CONNECTION TOP 10 WINNER —FOOTHILLS FLURRIES— 3783 North Evergreen Parkway • Evergreen 303.670.1550

Foothills Flurries manager Leslie Fried holds one of her many animal friends, and invites you to “The Bear Store.”

The log cabin shop next to Bank of the West in Evergreen is an eye-catcher. On sunny days, a display of wood-carved critters surround log furniture and rustic mountain décor and signal that Foothills Flurries is open and inviting you to visit.

Inside, a beautiful stone fireplace and exposed log cabin beams provide the backdrop for log couches, tables and chairs, and all the mountain creatures carved into wood that you can imagine. There are moose, elk, deer and, of course, bears.

More than 10 years ago, Foothills Flurries owner Diane Turek fell in love with a wooden bear being sold alongside the road. Of course, she purchased the bear and still has it. “It’s the ugliest thing you’ve ever seen,” laughed Diane’s daughter, Leslie Fried, who manages Foothills Flurries.

That bear was the seed for the future Foothills Flurries. Diane decided that the Evergreen community “needed” a bear store. So she opened one, and now about 10 artists are offering their bear creations at Foothills Flurries—lots of variety! Many people even call it “the bear store.”

There also are gifts available, including jewelry, McCall’s Country Candles and Evergreen Candles. There are lamps and lighting fixtures—all with a mountain flare.

Colorado flagstone creations and impressive tables are “a little piece of Colorado,” said Leslie. Some of the carved aspen pieces have history in them, such as pieces of barbed wire that the tree grew around.

Last year, Foothills Flurries celebrated its 10th anniversary in business. “We’re not quite up there with other really old Evergreen businesses, but 10 years is a big deal to us! We were very pleased to celebrate a decade in business,” Leslie said.

In 2000, what could have been a tragedy struck. A candle caused a fire in the store. But as destructive and scary as the fire was, it caused Foothills Flurries to upgrade the old cabin. “It turned out to be a blessing in disguise,” Leslie said.

Another blessing is all the great artists who sell their items at Foothills Flurries. “We are so lucky,” Leslie smiled.

MOUNTAIN CONNECTION TOP 10 WINNER —THE BISTRO— Highway 73 at Spruce Lane • Marshdale between Evergreen & Conifer 303.674.7670

The wife and husband team of Sarah Amadio and Brian Bailey reopened The Bistro at Marshdale in Octobe to the delight of Bistro-lovers who were anxious for the quality restaurant to be serving again in the historic Marshdale Lodge.

The Bistro at Marshdale reopened in October to the delight of mountain area diners.

The husband and wife team of Brian Bailey and Sarah Amadio are the new owners of The Bistro located in the historic Marshdale Lodge between Evergreen and Conifer.

It is open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday and for Sunday brunch from 9 am to 2 pm.

Brian and Sarah were surprised how smoothly the opening occurred. “It was great!” Sarah said. “But even more surprising is the amount of community support. People love The Bistro and are protective of it. They love the food, love the service, love the ambiance. And they take on a sense of responsibility to spread the word and come back as often as possible. It’s very touching.”

Sarah said she feels like she is a gatekeeper. “We don’t feel that we are the owners. We are sharing something important with the rest of the community.”

The mission statement is: “Healthy food is the essence of good living, warm company is the pulse of blessed hearts, and wine is the flavour of the soul. Together it is a celebration of life.” The Bistro logo adds that the restaurant is “serving memories.”

All the food is prepared daily at The Bistro. Whenever possible, the food is organic and locally grown. No preservatives are used.

The ambiance is “charming mountain rustic” featuring two fireplaces and a sun room with mountain views. The building used to house the historic Marshdale Lodge, built in the 1920s.

Friday and Saturday nights offer live classical entertainment.

Sarah is from Australia; Brian is from San Diego. Both are experienced restauranteurs and caterers.

They met in Evergreen, and when Sarah took off for London, Brian followed. They returned to Evergreen. Their family includes a puppy and two kittens…oh, and The Bistro. “This is our family,” laughed Sarah. “This is our baby.”

MOUNTAIN CONNECTION TOP 10 WINNER —STEMS A FLOWER SHOP— 29005 Upper Bear Creek Road • Evergreen www.stemsaflowershop.com 303.674.4995

Dore Huss admits she speaks “Plant” easier than English. She’s a studied horticulturalist ready and willing to introduce you to beautiful flowers and healthy plants at Stems overlooking Evergreen Lake.

 Dore Huss knows flowers, plants and floral design. She’s the owner of Stems A Flower Shop in the Lakeshore Plaza Shopping Centr.

It was a teenage girl’s attraction to boys that got Dore into a high school horticulture class. “There were 10 guys and, with my girlfriend and me, just two girls. So, you bet, we chose the horticulture class.”

She went on to get a college degree in horticulture, then followed friends to Colorado, worked in “cool plant shops” in Boulder, Denver and Longmont. And landed in Evergreen. She has called Colorado home for 26 years now.

When Dore was faced with a need to find a job while living in Marshdale, she decided to create a job. And she did. “It was six years ago in May that I opened Stems in Marshdale, all on a 6-week-old thought that I could do it,” Dore recalled.

“I thought of it, and six weeks later the store was open. I used my credit cards to front the cost.” The store was a success, and Dore moved it to its current Evergreen location “on the lake” about three years ago.

Anyone who has met Dore know that she has a special bond with plants and flowers. When you purchase a plant, she’s apt to tell you all about it as if it were a good friend. It will be a “him” or “her” and she will tell you about its likes and dislikes. You know that it was loved and that it’s now part of your family. It’s personal with Dore. Plants are her friends.

“I just know plants,” she explained. “I’ve studied so long that I know all the names of trees and plants, and I speak ‘Plant’ easier than I speak normal words.

“You know, don’t you, that I’m joking when I say a plant is male or female? It just comes out. Truthfully, I don’t know,” she laughed.

Stems delivers to Evergreen, Conifer, Golden, Morrison and Genesee and can arrange to have arrangements delivered worldwide. Remember that Valentine’s Day is in February.

Weddings in Evergreen are a Stems’ specialty. Businesses can have arrangements delivered weekly to keep offices attractive and employees happy. She even has an email newsletter with tips, specials and stories for customers who sign up.

Dore’s shop is a lush treat of healthy, happy plants and gorgeous flowers crowding a gurgling fountain. It’s also a gift shop. Check out the “cool” vases and candles. But the ingredient that make it special is Dore herself.

Dore and her husband, Tony, have two high school-age boys—and lots of plants and flowers.

MOUNTAIN CONNECTION TOP 10 WINNER —WING WAGON— 26367 Conifer Road US Highway 285 frontage road in Aspen Park/Conifer 303.816.5511

Bill Straight; wife Charlene, above right; and daughter Angela, above left; run the Wing Wagon. See if you can handle their Level 15 hot wings!

Bill Straight has fun and invites your entire family to join the party. Bill owns Wing Wagon in Aspen Park where he sells wings—Buffalo-style wings.

“We have our Frequent Fryer Program where you earn wings, meaning, after you have purchased 10 orders of 14 pieces of wings, you get one order free.

“As part of that program you get a 10% Loyalty Card to countdown to your free order.” There are about 650 households in the Frequent Fryer Program. “I think that’s very cool,” said a smiling Bill.

Wing Wagon serves 20 different flavors and heats of sauces. “If 10 is the hottest you’ve every had, we go to 15,” Bill boasted.

There’s even a Wing Wagon Wall of Flame for people who enjoy the 10-or-hotter sauces up to level 15. “After 43 tons of wings served, we have 14 certificates hanging on the Wall of Flame for the people who are members of the 10+ classes,” Bill said. Six are fans of the level 15 heat, and eight are fans of levels 10 through 14.

It’s not just wings. “We have burgers, Philly steaks, gyros and Lobo sliders. We have desserts—funnel cakes and our very popular deep-fried Twinkies and Oreos.” Also on the menu are antipasto salads, French and sweet fries, chicken tenders, chili cheese dogs and veggie gyro, in addition to the traditional Greek ones.

Wing Wagon is 8 years old. It started out as a lunch wagon that parked and sold wings up and down the Corridor 285. But it outgrew the wagon and, in June, Bill opened a restaurant with seating for 40 customers. “It’s just terrific,” said Bill.

Bill originally came from Erie, Penn., about 80 miles from the restaurant that started the first Buffalo wings. “So I ate lots of really good wings.”

Although Bill is the wing guy now, he’s also an electrician, coming to Colorado first to ski, then to live. He soon learned that “nobody up here could make good Buffalo wings”—at least not the way Bill and his family thought was right.

So Bill started frying up his own wings at home for family and friends. He got so good, friends urged him to sell them. He bought the wagon, and now he has the restaurant, where he serves wings with wife Charlene and daughter Angela. Angela is the one who “really likes to do the cooking—she’s our cook,” Bill said. They serve quality Redbird chicken and use trans-fat-free soybean cooking oil, claiming, “Proper deep frying can actually reduce the fat content of the product.”

“We make it fun. We’re family-friendly. If a family comes in, we can turn on Nickelodeon so the kids can watch Sponge Bob, and the parents can watch what they want. Everyone’s happy. There are also video games.”

Wing Wagon has come a long way from the days when customers had to stand outside in the snow and cold at the window of the Wing Wagon. “And stand in the cold they did,” said John. Now he invites you to come on in and take a seat. The Wings are hot and ready to be served.

MOUNTAIN CONNECTION TOP 10 WINNER —BIGGIE WINE & LIQUORS— 25587 Conifer Road, King Soopers Center, Aspen Park www.biggieliquors.com 303.816.9013

Biggie Wine & Liquors thrives on low prices and broad selection. Manager Mark Ryan works hard to keep prices competitive.

 It’s not a big deal that Biggie Wine & Liquors attracts customers from all over Conifer to its new store in the Aspen Park King Soopers shopping center off Highway 285. That’s predictable. It’s Biggie’s logical marketing footprint.

But Biggie also draws people from Evergreen, Kittredge, Morrison and Bailey.

People are willing to travel to Biggie.

Why? Well, it’s a new and very attractive store, yes. “But the real draw,” said owner Jon Guelzow, “is Biggie’s combination of wide selection, low prices and knowledgeable service that keeps customers coming here.”

Jon sells everyday wines that typically are opened immediately for that evening’s dinner and also the hard-to-get wines that are stored in high-end wine cellars.

He even has a rare Louis XIII high-end cocgnac with a $650 price tag on the bottle. “I haven’t sold it yet, so we still have it here. Obviously, it’s for special occasions. When you win the Lottery you might buy a bottle like that,” said Jon.

Jon was a wine representative for 10 years before opening the Conifer area store. His wine manager, Cheree Scheick, boasts 25 years in the business, and his liquor manager, Pete Egle, has 15 years’ experience.

If you need advice, Biggie staff has plenty of experience to help you make the correct purchase.

There’s a Wine of the Month. Come in a pick up the featured wine or have it shipped. Biggie ships to select states and it delivers locally. Biggie also will cater alcoholic beverages for your next party or community event. It’s a full-service wine and liquor store.

When all is said and done, Jon admited, “Price is main thing for us.” The Biggie team works hard to be comparable to the “big stores.”

The store opened in June 2006.

MOUNTAIN CONNECTION TOP 10 WINNER —EVERGREEN GOLDSMITHS— 28225 Main Street • Evergreen www.evergreengoldsmiths.com 303.670.0730

Walt Pawluczkowycz & Nancy Travis in their award-winning business, Evergreen Goldsmiths.

Nancy Travis’ creation is famous. It’s so famous that often when Evergreen Goldsmiths’ customers travel around the world they spot people wearing Nancy’s Evergreen elk pendant, a custom-made piece of wearable art. Naturally, a conversation about the pendant, about Evergreen and about the creativity of Nancy ensues. Usually it starts with the comment, “I know where you’re from—from Evergreen, of course!”

Nancy and her husband, Walt Pawluczkowycz, are the owners of Evergreen Goldsmith

Walt is a diamond setter, jeweler and trained watch make.

Nancy got hooked on jewelry when she studied art at the University of Maryland and worked in a jewelry shop in Georgetown.

Actually, Nancy holds a double major in art and psychology. That training is surprisingly helpful; she knows how to listen and discern and, thus, can design meaningful, personal jewelry for customers.

Walt and Nancy have run Evergreen Goldsmiths in Evergreen for about 30 years. There was a break when they returned to Maryland. “Trying to get back to Evergreen is what inspired the elk. We wanted to design something special that fits Evergreen. Walt came up with the idea, and I did the design,” Nancy recalled.

Nancy has since increased her Rocky Mountain Wildlife Collection. Besides elk, there are cougars, moose, bears, bighorn sheep and bison.

Evergreen Goldsmiths is a full-service jewelry store located at the stoplight in downtown Evergreen. It specializes in custom jewelry—gold, platinum, diamonds and gemstone.

“I have the experience to be able to help someone create a piece of jewelry that will be enjoyed and treasured. I make each piece of jewelry as art; each piece is unique,” Nancy said.

“Best of all, I love it. I love to create meaningful pieces of jewelry—works of art—that last a lifetime and are special to the owners.

“And I’m especially honored by the community’s support.”

– BEST OF... 2006 WINNERS! – Congratulations! by Jacque Scott

Every year, Mountain Connection readers choose the Best Of... businesses is varying categories. Ballots run for three consecutive months, beginning each November, and readers fill them out and mail them in. The reader response is great! This year's winners are as follows:

Long-time Business | Realtor | Boss | Service Club | Restaurant | Gift Shop
Coffeehouse | Clothing Store | Furniture Store | Art Gallery | Doctor | Dentist | Bank
Vet Clinic | Hair Salon | Nail Salon | Chiropractor | Massage Therapist | Writer


BEST LONG-TIME BUSINESS
Chow Down Inc
3719 Evergreen Parkway ~ Evergreen
303.674.8711

For more than 10 years, Jay Henry and Chow Down Inc. have been catering to animals and animal-lovers in this community.

Chow Down is like a little pet village. It sells healthy premium cat and dog foods, a full line of accessories and toys, and offers Doggie Wash and Bakery—all on site.

Chow Down actively supports local charitable animal organizations and even has a special room devoted to cats that need homes through Evergreen Animal Protective League. In 2006, Jay donated more than $30,000 in goods and services and hopes to do more in 2007.

Walk in any time and there will be people excited about their pets and adding to the positive energy at Chow Down.

A customer, Susan Santos, reviewed Chow Down earlier this year for Citysearch. She raved: “I love this place! Even if I didn’t live in Evergreen, I would shop here. I’ve called them up half an hour after their closing time on a Saturday and they’ve stayed open until I got there. They GAVE me their own open box of filters for my pet’s water fountain, because they were out of them on the shelf. Their recommendation for a dry cat food turned my sick kitty into a healthy, happy cat, and they always carry the heavy stuff to my car. You will not get service like this from the Big Box stores. Thanks, Chow Down. You’re the best!”

RUNNER UP
Little Bear
27895 Highway 74 (Main Street) ~ Evergreen
www.littlebearsaloon.com ~ 303.674.9991

HONORABLE MENTION
Hearthfire Books of Evergreen
1254 Bergen Parkway ~ Bergen Village Center
www.hearthfirebooks.com ~ 303.670.4549

***

BEST REALTOR
Heidi Barringer
Barringer Team ~ Coldwell Banker
30810 Stagecoach Blvd, #101 ~ Evergreen
www.barringerteam.com
303.670.3843

Heidi Seagren Barringer has been selling real estate in Evergreen for eight years. Together, she and her team have over 21 years combined experience.

Heidi is known for her creative, innovative and cutting-edge marketing. She turns “just listeds” into “just solds” and consistently is a Top Producer for mountain offices of Coldwell Banker, which was recently rated No. 1 real estate company by the Denver Business Journal. The Barringer Team members are known as the “Realtors with results.”

The Barringer Team is also one of the top contributors to local organizations including Mountain Area Land Trust, Mount Evans Hospice, Skate the Lake, Freedom Run, Denver Race for the Cure and other philanthropic organizations.

Heidi has a team of buyer specialists who are focused on listening to their clients and finding them the right new homes. Her team consists of Camilla Fallon, Mary Rosinski, Marcelle Monroe, Christina Scherschel, Melissa Nelson and Sabrina Pedersen. Her team has a satellite office for Coldwell Banker in the Bergen Park Village. From selling homes to buying homes in any price range, The Barringer Team is always “opening doors and closing deals.”

When she’s not selling real estate, she is actively involved with her two children or can be found working out, shooting photos (having studied with Ansel Adams in Yosemite), snow-shoeing, skiing, running and reading.

RUNNER UP
Tupper Briggs
Tupper’s Team
30480 Stagecoach Blvd ~ Evergreen
www.tuppersteam.com ~ 303.670.6358

HONORABLE MENTION
Charlie Asher
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
30810 Stagecoach Blvd #101 ~ Evergreen
www.charlieasher.com ~ 303.679.5666

***

BEST BOSS
Paula Barnes, Caffè di Lucca owner
29009 Upper Bear Creek Rd
Lakepoint Center ~ Evergreen
www.caffedilucca.com ~ 303.670.8623

Paula Barnes, owner of Caffè di Lucca at Evergreen Lake, has a heart of gold.
“Anybody who knows Paula knows why she won Best Boss. We were not surprised,” said Sally Baker of Caffè di Lucca. “She’s generous with her customers and with the staff. Very flexible. She always says, ‘We’ll make it work.’ And she does.”

Prior to opening Caffè di Lucca, Paula spent 25 years in high-tech marketing and sales, immersed in the fast-paced life of commuting and business traveling.

Paula always has been close to her parents, Marcella and Ron Barnes, and it was at the suggestion of her dad that Caffè di Lucca came to be. The Caffè di Lucca Web site tells the story: “Ron broached Paula one day with these compelling ideas: There was a great location available; they both had knowledge about authentic espresso, having traveled to Lucca, Italy, several times, and could even decorate the interior in the Italian flair of that region; and (the biggest motivator of all) Ron noticed a void—there was nowhere to gather with old friends and meet new friends in town. Paula took a huge leap of faith, and with her parents’ moral support, Caffè di Lucca opened in February 2000.”

Customers and employees wanted to tell Paula how much they appreciate her—and they found a way. They voted Paula the Best Boss.

RUNNER UP
Kurt Blackwell
Zoka’s Restaurant & Bar, owner
16940 S. Pine Valley Road ~ Pine Grove 303.838.0378

HONORABLE MENTION
Bryan D. McCarty
Treatment Technology Inc., president
Buffalo Park Plaza ~ Evergreen
www.treatment-tech.com ~ 303.670.3936

***

BEST SERVICE CLUB
Rotary Club

There are three Rotary Clubs in the Mountain Connection circle, the Rotary Club of Evergreen, the Rotary Club of Conifer and the Rotary Club of Mountain Foothills. Rotary is the world’s oldest service club, starting in Chicago in 1905 as a business connection group, and quickly evolved into heavy emphasis on service. At the very beginning, the four original members ate sack lunches together once a week and “rotated” to each of the four offices, hence the name, Rotary.

 The Evergreen club is the oldest and the largest of the three mountain area clubs. Members of this club meet on Friday for breakfast at El Rancho.  The club was chartered in 1985, and currently has 115 members or more. Dick Mund is the president for Rotary year 2006-2007, and Bill Schenck serves as club secretary. The Evergreen Club is very active in Rotary around the world, and has sponsored several major projects in East Africa and Haiti, as examples. Past President Kimra Perkins led a Rotary Group Study Exchange team to East Africa three years ago, and member Hanna Holt is a moving force for building a better world in Haiti.

 The Rotary Club of Conifer was sponsored by the Evergreen club, and was chartered in 1996.  The club currently has 36 active members and meets at the Mountain Resource Center on Tuesday each week at 7 am. This year’s president is Dick Bryant, and the immediate past president is Brian Good. Sharon Perdue serves the club as secretary. As is the Evergreen club, this club is also active internationally, with projects in Belize and India being completed recently. The club was a primary contributor to the building of the new building to house the Mountain Resource Center three years ago.

 The newest is the Rotary Club of Mountain Foothills, co-sponsored by the Conifer and Evergreen clubs and chartered in 2001.  Its 40 members meet Wednesday evenings at 6:30 at Mount Vernon Country Club. Jim Rohrer is president, and the long-term secretary is Nan Jarvis.

RUNNER UP
Kiwanis
~ Conifer meets at Aspen Perk Coffee
Wednesdays at 7:30 am
~ Evergreen meets
at Hiwan Golf Club Thursdays at noon
www.kiwanis.org

HONORABLE MENTION
VFW
Shawnee/Bailey 303.838.4343
Conifer 303.838.5677
Morrison 303.697.9731
www.vfw.org

***

BEST RESTAURANT
SoHo Evergreen
28216 Highway 74 (Main Street)
Evergreen at the stoplight
www.sohoevergreen.com ~ 303.674.3000

Linger at a window table at SoHo in Evergreen and watched the business of the town unfold. This famous restaurant location on Evergreen’s Main Street has a long history: The Wolfe House. The Post House. And SoHo Evergreen since 2000.

Owner Meryl Sabeff is a two-time winner—her side-by-side businesses won Best Restaurant and Best Art Gallery. Meryl’s not surprised. She sees art and food as complimentary passions and natural neighbors. Over on the restaurant side, SoHo introduces new Head Chef Cody Mitts, a local boy made good. He’s freshening the menu and edging prices down. He is served by Sous Chef Eddie Maddoux, another local.

At Soho, don’t always order your favorite—such as the ever-popular Baja Fish Tocos. Venture out. Try SoHo’s French dip sandwich, which Chef Mitts has returned to the menu. Eddie mixes up a fabulous tuna salad with apple bits; you’ve got to try it. The clam-and-roast-corn cakes are light and tasty. Save room for SoHo’s fabulous creme broulée or chocolate lava cake for dessert.

Enjoy Live Jazz Nights on Thursdays from 6:30 to 9:30 pm. There’s also happy hour from 4 to 6:30 pm Monday through Friday in the bar with steamed mussels, calamari, mini burgers, tacos and wings.

Come for the food. Come for the music. Come for the friends. Come for a window table and warm fire. It’s all at SoHo in Evergreen.

RUNNER UP
Tanglewoods Restaurant & Bar
1552 Bergen Parkway ~ Evergreen
www.tanglewoods.net ~ 303.670.2263

HONORABLE MENTION TIE
Keys on the Green
29614 Upper Bear Creek Road
www.keysonthegreen.com ~ 303.674.4095

Zoka’s Restaurant & Bar
16940 S. Pine Valley Road ~ Pine Grove 303.838.0378

***

BEST GIFT SHOP
Evergreen Crafters
28115 Highway 74—downtown Evergreen
303.674.3153

Evergreen Crafters has been in operation for more than 50 year on Evergreen’s Main Street. It is “the” place for Colorado and Evergreen souvenirs. Yes, get your Colorado T-shirts here.

There’s jewelry and pottery—including creations by local artists. Speaking of local, stop by for the ever-popular Selah all-natural products, including bar soaps, mineral baths and creams. “Once customers discover Selah, they come back again and again,” said Evergreen Crafters’ owner Susan Farris. “They are good for your skin, and one bar of soap lasts forever!”

Danny Cash’s food items are another hit. Danny started making salsa, mustards and habanera hot sauce as a teenager in Evergreen. Now he and his products are famous.

We’ve had a little snow this winter—OK, lots of snow. Guess where you can get the amazing MinneTonka boots, slippers and moccasins? At Evergreen Crafters. If you love clog shoes but want them nice enough for the office, check out the new MinneTonka line of clogs at Evergreen Crafters.

There’s always something new and cool at Evergreen Crafters. Susan Farris left last month for the huge Los Angeles gift show and has returned with great, new items. Stop in. Try on MinneTonka shoewear, pick up some salsa and hand soap, silver earrings, artwork, glassware and home furnishings. Then wish Susan congratulations for her historic community gift shop—voted the best.

RUNNER UP
Imagine That Boutique
6921 Highway 73
Evergreen South @Marshdale
303.679.2717

HONORABLE MENTION
Fringe–A Cool & Trendy Gift Shop
3867 Evergreen Parkway ~ 303.679.1294

***

BEST COFFEEHOUSE
Camp Grounds Coffee & Sweet Provisions
1254 Bergen Parkway ~ Bergen Village Center
303.679.1311

Camp Grounds is more than a typical coffeehouse. It is large enough to be a meeting place, comfortable enough for socialization, beautiful enough for business, modern enough for computer work and friendly enough to be habit-forming.

Camp Grounds’ elegant atmosphere is reminiscent of the grand rustic lodges such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton, said owner Wayne Brown.

Be sure to stay for lunch and end with ice cream.

As for coffee, Camp Grounds features Allegro products from a Thornton-based coffee roaster owned by Whole Foods using only the top 10% of Arabica coffee beans.

Look for Camp Grounds’ signature “latte art” on the foamy white top of your next brew. Camp Grounds No. 1 “barista” coffee barkeeper, Jerry Cramm, can design a leaf, heart, pine tree or similar creation as he steams and pours the milk.

Jerry is Wayne and Cheryl Brown’s son-in-law, making this a family enterprise.

Use their Happy Camper Card to “buy 10 and get one free.” Ask about the pre-paid and gift cards. Don’t want to get out of the car? Just drive up to the take-out window in the back.

RUNNER UP
Java Groove
28136 Highway 74 (Main Street) ~ Evergreen
www.javagroovecoffee.com ~ 303.674.4494

HONORABLE MENTION
Caffé di Lucca
29009 Upper Bear Creek Road
Lakepoint Center, Evergreen
www.caffedilucca.com ~ 303.670.8623

***

BEST CLOTHING STORE
Bleachers Casual Clothing
1153 Bergen Parkway #G ~ King Soopers Center
303.674.6515

It’s a busy time for Bleachers Casual Clothing in Bergen Park in the King Soopers Center.

Bleachers completed a major remodeling. It was honored as the Evergreen Area Chamber of Commerce co-Business of the Year for 2006. Add to that, more than 500 ballots were cast by readers of the Mountain Connection in the annual “Best of” Contest and resulted in Bleachers being proclaimed Best Clothing Store for 2006!

Owners Terre and David Gleason have been bringing fashion to the Evergreen area for 16 years. They know what’s hot and what’s not and strive to “express the free spirit of Evergreen.”

Their clothing boutique for men and women provides quality casual clothing with name brands including Tommy Bahama, Hobo, Cotton Stuff, Scott Barber, Lucky Brand, Fabrizio Gianni, Hanky Panky, Christopher Blue, Indigo Palms, Pantherella, Jams World, Glima, Casabella and Gillio.

In addition to an expanded store, great new fashions and adoring shoppers, the Gleasons were touted for their “professionalism, attention to detail and remarkable customer service” by their chamber of commerce. Read all about it in the January chamber newsletter, “The Voice.” Then head over to Bleachers and get in fashion.

RUNNER UP
Bits & Pieces Clothing
1250 Bergen Parkway, #B130 ~ Bergen Village
www.bitsandpiecesclothiers.com 303.674.9646

HONORABLE MENTION
Skintique
28186 Highway 74, #5, downtown Evergreen 303.670.1180

***

BEST FURNITURE STORE
Design Repeats
1240 Bergen Parkway, #A100
Bergen Village Shopping Center
www.DesignRepeats.com ~ 303.670.2900

Get ready for a great shopping experience. Check out the quality used furniture and new home accessories at Bergen Village Shopping Center’s well-known and loved consignment store—Design Repeats. 

Since 2003, Design Repeats has offered new life and new owners to everything from gently used couches, chairs and armoires to bookcases and dining sets. Items change almost daily, which makes it as much fun for the staff at Design Repeats as for regular customers.

Owner Suzie Ouellette says, “What comes around goes around at Design Repeats!” Over $500,000 has been paid out to over 1,000 consignors.

Find everything from expensive brand names like Thomasville, Ethan Allen, Pottery Barn and Lexington to new and affordable home accessories.

 There is something for everyone and every budget. Remember, if you’re downsizing, moving or redecorating, call Design Repeats, which conveniently offers pick-up and delivery services. Open seven days a week.

RUNNER UP
Old Glory Antiques
11825-A Highway 285 ~ Conifer
www.oldgloryantiquesinc.com
303.838.4600

HONORABLE MENTION
Mountain Home
Showbarn Center
27965 Meadow Drive ~ Evergreen
www.mountainhome.net ~ 303.674-3346

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BEST ART GALLERY
The Evergreen Gallery
28195 Highway 74 ~ Evergreen at the stoplight
www.theevergreengallery.com ~ 303.674.4871

The Evergreen Gallery exists to spotlight and sell the “creations of Colorado artists.” It has the reputation of representing the most talented and recognized artists in Colorado.

Owner Meryl Sabeff says the artwork reflects the “beautiful and awe-inspiring landscape, wildlife, light, textures, color and vibrancy of Colorado.”

Meryl is an award-winning porcelain potter. Her gallery manager and daughter-in-law, Valerie Howell, recalled that Meryl was disappointed when the previous gallery, Gallery E, closed. So Meryl opened The Evergreen Gallery in the same location in 1987. It celebrates its 20th anniversary in October.

Passers-by find it almost impossible to walk past the gallery windows on Main Street without being drawn inside by the abundance of beautiful creations on display.

White aspen wood is turned into gorgeous vases by Mike Paulson of Fort Collins. Nelfa Tompkins’ hand-sculpted ceramic vessels have returned to The Evergreen Gallery, back by public acclaim. There’s dramatic textured pottery by Carrie Doman of Conifer, Shibori silk scarves by Shelly DeChantal, Glenn Gebhardt’s historic photographs of the Evergreen area from the 1920s and colorful metal relief wall hangings by Kristin DeSantis of Allenspark.

While the “Best of” award is welcome news, the really big event is expected this month. Valerie’s first child is due in February. Stop by with congratulations for both the expectant mother and grandmother.

RUNNER UP
Evergreen Fine Art
3042 Evergreen Parkway ~ Evergreen
www.evergreenfineart.com ~ 303.679.3610

HONORABLE MENTION
The Wild Eye Gallery
28235 Highway 74 (Main Street)
Evergreen at the stoplight
www.thewildeye.com ~ 303.670.9252

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BEST DOCTOR
Dr. Marsha Manning
Evergreen Internal Medicine
30940 Stage Coach Blvd, #270E—Evergreen
www.nwphysicians.com ~ 303.674.6062

“My primary goal as a physician is excellence in the care I provide and treating my patients as a whole being, not just treating ‘an illness,’” said Dr. Marsha Manning.

Her patients said thanks by voting Dr. Manning Best Doctor.

Dr. Manning is married and has nine very close neices and nephews. She enjoys hiking, mountan biking and outdoor sports. She grew up in Kansas.

Dr. Manning has an undergraduate degree in French and a doctorate of medicine from the University of Kansas. She also holds a master’s of business administration from New York University with an emphasis in finance and international business.

“After having had a successful 10-year career in business, I realized that personal fulfillment was lacking and decided to pursue a long-building interest in medicine,” she states on her Web site.

She served her residency in internal medicine at Exempla St. Joseph Hospital and is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine. She has been in practice since 1999.

Dr. Manning said she strives “to help my patients be their healthiest through preventative health maintenance and education, as well as foster a relationship built on trust.”

RUNNER UP
Dr. Christine Pinsinski
Conifer Medical Center, PC
26659 Pleasant Park Rd ~ Conifer
303.674.0605

HONORABLE MENTION
Richard Staller, DO
Elk Ridge Family Physicians
30940 Stage Coach Blvd, #E290 ~ Evergreen
303.674.8153

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BEST DENTIST
Dr. Richard W. Wheeler, DDS
3540 Evergreen Parkway ~ Evergreen
303.674.6264

Dr. Richard W. Wheeler has provided quality dental care for mountain area families for over 25 years. When asked what has kept his interest in dentistry for over a quarter of a century, his response was: “My professional staff, great patients and exciting advances in cosmetic, implant and laser dentistry.”

He and his staff continually update their technical education in order to provide the best possible treatment for all their patients. Look for updates about Dr. Wheeler’s DEKA Ultraspeed CO2 soft tissue laser treatment.

Dr. Wheeler has been a clinical instructor at the University of Colorado School of Dentistry and also donates his professional skills to Kids in Need of Dentistry, the Foundation of Dentistry for the Handicapped, the Seniors’ Resource Center and many other local organizations.

Dr. Wheeler says the key to his success is the caring and professional manner in which his team works together to meet their patients’ needs.

RUNNER UP
Dr. Don Sharp, DDS
Evergreen Dental Group
31226 Lewis Ridge Road ~ Evergreen
www.evergreencodentalgroup.com 303.674.5566

HONORABLE MENTION
Dr. Courtney College, DDS
Pediatric Dentist
30960 Stagecoach Blvd ~ Evergreen
303.670.7070

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BEST BANK
Evergreen National Bank
28145 Highway 74 (Main Street) ~ Evergreen
1198 Bergen Parkway ~ Bergen Park
303.674.2700

Evergreen National Bank is celebrating 25 years of providing full-service banking to the Evergreen Community. The main bank is located in historic downtown Evergreen, with a convenient drive-up facility just down the street. In December of 1999, ENB opened the Bergen Park branch, which also offers full-service banking and drive-up service to its customers.

Evergreen National Bank has always remained true to its community roots and is proud of its commitment to build lasting relationships with customers in the way that only a local bank can. All banking decisions are still made right here in Evergreen. Most employees are residents of the mountain area, and nearly half of the staff volunteer their time and service to local charities and community organizations.

While Evergreen National’s community presence is well known, it has never failed to be on the cutting edge with regard to the banking services and technology that people have now come to expect. From complete business and consumer lending services, to state-of-the-art Internet services that rival the largest of banks, ENB consistently raises the bar to go above and beyond to achieve absolute customer satisfaction.

Evergreen National Bank welcomes you to experience the best that banking has to offer, with the unrivaled personal service you deserve.

RUNNER UP
1st Bank
30770 Stagecoach Blvd ~ Evergreen
303.679.1000
1153 Bergen Parkway #1 ~ Bergen Park
25617 Conifer Road ~ Aspen Park
303.838.2030
www.efirstbank.com

HONORABLE MENTION
Bank of the West
25657 Conifer Road ~ Aspen Park
303.674.0649
3779 Evergreen Parkway ~ Evergreen
303.674.6646
www.bankofthewest.com

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BEST VETERINARY CLINIC
Evergreen Animal Hospital, PC
aka Evergreen Veterinary Service, PC
30706 Bryant Drive ~ Evergreen
www.evergreenvet.com ~ 303.674.4331

Lots of excitement at Evergreen Veterinary Service—in addition to this Best Veterinary Clinic honor.
Evergreen Veterinary will move to a new state-or-the-art facility in the spring, and its name will change to Evergreen Animal Hospital.

It will be located at 32175 Castle Court in the business complex called The Village at Soda Creek on the corner of Bergen Parkway and Evergreen Parkway. The entrance will be directly west of the Bergen Park fire station.

It will be a full-service hospital that provides comprehensive medical, surgical and dental care. An in-house laboratory will allow same-day turnaround of results. There will also be 24-hour critical care, a well-stocked pharmacy, a dedicated grieving room and on-site crematory service. 

Terry Stephen, DVM, a Colorado native, is the senior member of the staff with 25 years at Evergreen Veterinary Service. Serving with him are Tammy Bryant, DVM; and Sean Lawson, DVM, an Evergreen native who did his career day with Evergreen Veterinary Service when he was in eighth grade way back in 1985.

They understand the special role a pet plays in a family and are dedicated to becoming “your other family doctor for your pet’s health care.” Their Web site allows access to a full library of pet medical information. Check it out.

RUNNER UP
Lone Rock Veterinary Hospital
66529 U.S. Highway 285 ~ Bailey
www.lonerockvet.com ~ 303.838.7494

HONORABLE MENTION
Harmony Aniimal Wellness
26290 Highway 74 #5 ~ Kittredge
www.harmonyanimalwellness.com - 303.674.6288

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BEST HAIR SALON
Agora Salon
27904 Meadow Drive—Evergreen
www.agorasalon.com ~ 303.674.7900

Agora Salon owner Lucinda Newton has created an oasis of friendly service with a sophisticated urban edge. Lucinda opened Agora Salon three years ago with the vision of having the best design team in the Denver area, but with a welcoming atmosphere nestled in the foothills of Evergreen. Get urban style right here in your mountain community.

When you walk in the door, you are struck by the beautiful ambiance with a Moroccan flair and a unique gift boutique. The salon is comfortably stylish and beautifully lit—perfect for your day of beauty.

Agora’s top-notch team provides unsurpassed service in hair, nails, skin care, waxing and massage. They also feature Phyto hair care products from France and Eminence organic skin care from Hungary.

RUNNER UP
Hair Etc.
26367 Conifer Road, #C ~ Conifer
303.838.2157

HONORABLE MENTION
Parkway Salon
2962 Evergreen Parkway, Ste 202 ~ Evergreen
303.674.7988

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BEST NAIL SALON
Diamond Nails
Too: 3889 Evergreen Parkway—Safeway Center
303.670.2267
III: 1254 Bergen Parkway ~ Bergen Village
303.670.3044

Diamond Nails Too in the Evergreen Safeway Shopping Center has been caring for the nails of mountain area residents for nearly 10 years.

The owners so enjoy the beautiful scenery and the friendly customers that they have opened a second store.

Diamond Nails III opened in the brand new section of Bergen Village in November. It is happily settled in the strikingly attractive new building that is home to the Crave Consignment Store, Camp Grounds Coffee & Sweet Provisions and Hearthfire Books.

The interior is beautifully decorated and immaculate. Brand new pedicure lounge chairs with remote controls for massage options invite customers to sit back and relax with their feet in the warm, swirling, sterile water of the attached porcelain foot basins. Rumor has it, the pedicures are transcendent.

Both shops offer complete professional nail care for ladies and gentlemen—manicures and pedicures, French and American.

Want nail jewelry? No problem, Diamond Nails can do it. How about Silk Wrap Nails? Or Solar Nails? Or Pink and White? Yes. It also has nail overlays, sculptured nails, nail art, air brushes and fill-ins.

Appointments and walk-ins are welcome. Special savings for the grand opening of offered through March.

RUNNER UP
Parkway Salon
2962 Evergreen Parkway, Ste 202 ~ Evergreen
303.674.7988

HONORABLE MENTION
Tall Grass Aveda Spa & Salon
997 Upper Bear Creek Rd ~ Evergreen
www.tallgrassspa.com ~ 303.670.4444

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BEST CHIROPRACTOR
Jason Steinle
Health and Harmony
Chiropractic and Wellness Center
Evergreen
303.670.1001