2016 Readers Choice
Transcription
2016 Readers Choice
2016 Readers’ Choice Awards Our readers voted for the Best Local Businesses: Doctors, Restaurants, Fitness Facility, Grocery Store, Hotels, Coffee Shops, Family Fun, etc... 2 Saturday, March 26, 2016 READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Times Leader READERS’ CHOICE Saturday, March 26, 2016 3 READERS’ CHOICE 4 Saturday, March 26, 2016 Times Leader At Voitek TV and Appliance, family means business By Paul Sokoloski [email protected] It started as an interesting endeavor by an old miner. It’s grown into makes Voitek TV and Appliances, one of Wyoming Valley’s most popular destinations for home upgrades. Why else would crowds keep coming back? With two locations on Wyoming Avenue — one in Kingston and another in Exeter — Voitek reached the platinum level in this year’s Times Leader Readers’ Choice awards, meaning the newspaper’s readers selected the business as the best appliance store for all three years of voting. “It makes us really feel good,” said David Voitek Jr., who co-owns Voitek TV and Appliances with his father, David Sr., and his brother, Ed. “We always thought of the people around here as family. It’s a nice feeling to know they feel the same way about us.” After all, it’s a family business. And the Voitek business booming. A half decade ago, Voitek Sr. began dabbling in the industry as sort of a side job. “He was a miner,” Voitek Jr. said of his dad, who is currently in failing health. “When he got done mining, he got cleaned up and he started with TVs. He would take them to a farm and leave them there for a weekend. He’d put an antenna up, get a picture on it and say to the families, ‘Try it for a weekend.’ Of course, back then, you only got three channels. But most of the people kept them. It just grew from there.” People kept coming back to the first store Voitek Sr. opened in Kingston after beginning his television building and repairing career in the basement of a brother’s home. The business has since branched out to include major appliances, and some 20 years ago, the Voiteks opened a second, larger store in Exeter. “Appliances are even a bigger part of our business than TVs are,” Voitek Jr. said. “We have pretty much the largest sales of stoves, refrigerators, receivers.” That doesn’t mean Voitek stores have tuned out the television stuff. “We do TVs, home theater, all that sort of stuff,” Voitek Jr. said. “It’s just like being at the theater, only more comfortable because you’re in your own chair.” Which all leaves Voitek TV and Appliance sitting pretty in the eyes of Times Leader readers. “Feels good,” Voitek Jr. said. “We’re more conducive to the people. I think we give good, Fred Adams | For Times Leader reliable service. We’re a family David Voitek Jr., co-owner of Voitek TV and Appliances, believes a family-like business.” Reach Paul Sokoloski at 570-991-6392 or on Twitter @TLPaulSokoloski atmosphere in his stores in Exeter and Kingston is what keeps customers coming back for more. Thank you for your continued support and letting us create your ‘Design Dream” Draperies & Interiors ”Making Your World More Beautiful” 4 Marion St. Luzerne, PA 570-288-8013 • sewfine.com r u o e t a br e l e c th p i l w He y r sa r e v i n !!! n s a g t n s i 1 v 4 sa g n i r p s t a e r g See us on the HOUZ APP NEPA’S ONLY READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Saturday, March 26, 2016 5 F.M. Kirby Center ramps things up By Matt Mattei [email protected] WILKES-BARRE — The F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts offered 125 shows in 2015, ranging from cultural displays like Northeast Pennsylvania Philharmonic performances to star acts like Jerry Seinfeld and Z.Z. Top. The result was an increase in attendance, a financially successful season and community recognition. Now, the community has lauded the historic theater again, selecting the Kirby Center as Best Music Venue for the 2016 Times Leader Readers’ Choice Awards. “It’s an honor,” said executive director Will Beekman. “For us to be considered Best Music Venue means a lot for us, and we know how hard the people work at the other venues. We’re friends with them. We work together. We consider them our peers, so to receive that honor is humbling.” Beekman said 2015 was encouraging, showing hard work pays off. “What was most satisfying about last year is that we started to see results from what has been a bit of a paradigm shift in terms of our programming model,” Beekman said. “That was to be a little more aggressive, not only in who we bring in but in how many shows we bring in.” Beekman said the Kirby staff is as much to credit as the philosophy. “Our tech director has slept here a couple times,” Beekman said. “I think it’s more of a lifestyle than a job. But if you love it, you’re having fun right now.” Anne Rodella, director of sales and marketing, said it’s been enjoyable to see relationships grow with community partners and with the community at-large. “To grow show-wise and people-wise at the same time has been fun,” Rodella said. Beekman noted the Kirby’s mission to bring arts, in general, into the community. “As much as we love booking Jerry Seinfeld and Z.Z. Top, we enjoy just as much bringing in the opera and Broadway,” he said. “That’s the stuff that makes us the Kirby Center.” Rodella said bringing in those larger acts has encouraged the staff to bring in more missionoriented art shows. See KIRBY | 7 “I think it’s more of a lifestyle than a job.” Will Beekman, executive director of the F.M. Kirby Center, talks about the paradigm shift in programming strategy that the venue has undergone. Aimee Dilger|Times Leader Staff members of the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts are, from left, John Bubul, Brian Gill, Art Dale, Joanie Brenton, Tina Yurko, Will Beekman, Marion Kendzor, Paul Rodella, Lauren Menn. Second row, Maria Sacco, Drew Taylor, Michael Dale, Eileen Delarche and Anne Rodella. 6 Saturday, March 26, 2016 READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Saturday, March 26, 2016 7 Kirby From page 5 “We’re feeling more comfortable to expand that part,” Rodella said. “And it’s exciting.” With more than 50 volunteers and a growing number of community members who inquire about volunteering or being on the Kirby’s board of directors, Beekman said public support makes the Kirby team feel good. “I think it speaks to the fact that it’s a fun place to be, to attend a show, to work a show, to just be here,” Beekman said. Rodella, who has worked at the Kirby Center for 16 years, has seen the place evolve. “The positivity we feel every year as we grow is so encouraging, straight from the audience member who’s walking in for maybe one show that year to performers who enjoy being here,” Rodella said. Beekman enjoys seeing downtown shops and eateries benefit from Kirby traffic as much Aimee Dilger|Times Leader Patrons buy tickets at the F.M. Kirby Center box office. as he enjoys seeing the theater full, and he hopes the future will bring even more interest in WilkesBarre. “What I would like to do is not stop here,” Beekman said. “We’re running a little ragged right now, but we’re see- ing that it’s working and paying off. I would like to get to a point where we can hire more people and, therefore, do more shows and, therefore, bring more people to downtown and, therefore, bring in more of our mission programming and just continue to ramp that up.” Reach Matt Mattei at 570-9916651 or Twitter@TLArts T hank You Times Leader readers for voting us Best Appliance Store 3 years in a row! TV AND APPLIANCE Kingston - Exeter READERS’ CHOICE 8 Saturday, March 26, 2016 Times Leader Pizza Perfect has the best square pizza and wings By Jennifer Learn-Andes [email protected] KINGSTON TWP. — The making of a square pizza at Pizza Perfect is a laborious process. A ball of fresh dough is placed on a peanut oil-greased pan. The dough must be gradually stretched three times to fit the rectangular pan before it is topped with homemade sauce, onion and cheddar cheese. “It takes an hour-and-ahalf. It’s exactly the same all these years, and we’re in our 41st year,” said Tammy Lemelin, who owns the eatery with her sister, Janine Hudak. The familiar blend has garnered the square pizza’s third first-place win in the Times Leader Readers’ Choice contest. Pizza Perfect’s wings also received the most votes in that category in this year’s contest. The eatery’s mild wings are the most popular, the sisters said. Other wings on the menu: butter-and-garlic, sweet-and-tangy BBQ and “hot but bearable.” The daring can try a variety dubbed “fireman’s friends,” which come with this warning: “You’re on your own!” The sisters believe their wings stand out because they are fresh, cooked in peanut oil and coated in sauces created by their father, Richard Adamchick, and his longtime friend and business partner Myron Mickiewicz, who opened the pizzeria in 1975. “Our father would invite his firefighter friends to try his concoctions,” Hudak recalled. “He and Myron tried different recipes.” The wings were added in 1988. Lemelin and Hudak have worked at the Carverton Road pizzeria since they were young and became owners in November 2015. Lemelin dabbed her eyes with a tissue contemplating what the win would have meant to her father, who died in April at the age of 72 after a lengthy battle with liver cancer. “He did this for his family. We worked with him side-by-side,” she said. Their mother, Louise, still works at the business, they said. The women are thankful people continue to embrace their unchanging staples, including regular customers who have been coming for decades and now bring their grandchildren. Their food has been part of countless community meetings, celebrations, awards ceremonies and other gatherings. “We’ve met a lot of nice people along the way. We have great customers, loyal customers,” Hudak said. “A heartfelt thank you to our customers and employees for helping us grow through the years,” Lemelin said. Reach Jennifer Learn-Andes at 570-991-6388 or on Twitter @ TLJenLearnAndes. READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Charlotte Bartizek | For Times Leader It takes an hour-and-a-half to make the square pizza at Pizza Perfect in Kingston Township, which won the Times Leader Readers’ Choice three years in a row. Saturday, March 26, 2016 9 Charlotte Bartizek | For Times Leader Janine Hudak, left, and Tammy Lemelin spend much of their time behind the counter at Pizza Perfect in Kingston Township serving up the Times Leader Readers’ Choice most popular pizza and wings. GINO'S SHOE STORE 2437 SR 309 HWY, Dallas (570)675-2029 THANK YOU TO ALL OUR LOYAL CUSTOMERS AND FRIENDS Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m., Thursday 9:30 a.m. - 8 p.m., Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Saturday 9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. Voted Best Shoe Store 3 Years In A Row. THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST LOCAL JEWELRY STORE Spring Shoes Have Arrived Time to get your Children's Spring Shoes and Summer Sandals! Like Us On Facebook AFAM www.rainbowjewelers.net 570-287-6257 570 287 6257 625 70 S R W D OPER JEWE O ATE AN B DS L ED N IN N W C I ILY O 789 Wyoming Ave. • Kingston E 19 ER Stride Ritee • CClarks • Merrell • Keen • Nike • Saucony • Crocs • RReebok bk Skechers • Under Armour • See Kai Run • And Many More Top Name Brands! READERS’ CHOICE 10 Saturday, March 26, 2016 Times Leader Sabatini’s offers various beers from around the world By Jimmy Fisher [email protected] EXETER — Since Lindo Sabatini purchased Sabatini’s Pizza from his father in 2005, he’s worked hard to incorporate craft beers into the business. The beers’ popularity prompted Sabatini to open a craft beer and bottle shop last spring, and the various selections available have prompted Times Leader readers to vote Sabatini’s for having the Best Beer Selection in the 2016 Readers’ Choice Awards. This marks the first time the business has received this award. Sabatini’s has 12 rotating drafts and a hand pump with a few hundred beer selections, but the craft beer and bottle shop is where customers can really dive into various selections. All in all, Sabatini’s sells over 2,500 different types of beer. “As far as the beer goes, we have probably 100 to 150 Belgium beers, 60 German beers and beers from countries from Austria to Switzerland,” said Sabatini. “As far as American craft beers go, we basically have the best beers we can get from the best American craft breweries.” The craft beer and bottle shop sells individual beers as single bottles, sixpacks or 12-packs of beers from all around the world. At the bar are four dedicated import towers — German beer Schneider Weisse, Netherlands beer La Trappe and Belgium beer Chouffe and Delirium Tremens. On the back wall are 16 rotating beers which Sabatini said are changed a couple times a day. “It’s very rare that there is not a new beer on there everyday,” he said. “We’ve changed as many as 12 in one day in the (new building) alone. There are some beers that will reoccur, but the majority of them are just in a constant rotation.” In order to obtain beers from around the world, Sabatini said relationships need to be formed with brewing companies, which is not an easy task. “There’s a lot of work into getting all of the beers,” he said. “It’s not like we just pick up the phone and order them. We have to develop relationships with breweries and with importers, and we have to support the breweries to get the beers we want. There’s a lot of time between myself and my staff and managers that we spend in developing these relationship to get what we need.” Hours for the craft beer and bottle shop are 10 a.m. to midnight Sunday through Thursday and from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Sabatini said the response to the bottle shop since its opening has been overwhelming and that business will still be booming heading into its second year. “It’s been fun,” he said. “A lot of people still don’t realize we’re here and once they come in to see the place and taste some of the beers maybe they haven’t had, they fall in with something and they come back.” Reach Jimmy Fisher at 570-704-3972 or on Twitter @SD_JimmyFisher All in all, Sabatini’s sells over 2,500 different types of beer. Pete Wilcox | Times Leader Lindo Sabatini with international beers at Sabatini’s brew house restaurant in Exeter. READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Saturday, March 26, 2016 11 Lindo Sabatini with international beers at Sabatini’s brew house restaurant in Exeter. Pete Wilcox | Times Leader Thank You For Voting Dr. James DeFinnis The Best Dentist 3 Years in a Row! Platinum Award Winner A Caring Dentist Like No Other 210 Carverton Rd., Trucksville 18708 | (570) 763-4364 READERS’ CHOICE 12 Saturday, March 26, 2016 Times Leader Gertrude Hawk Chocolates satisfies the sweet tooth By Travis Kellar [email protected] KINGSTON — Whether it’s the scrumptious dipped apples, chocolate-covered pretzels or another indulgent treat, Gertrude Hawk Chocolates can satisfy even the largest sweet tooth. That sweet reputation earned the popular chocolate chain in the Wyoming Valley a gold award in this year’s Times Leader Readers’ Choice Awards with the most votes in the category of “Best Local Chocolate.” Melanie Nardozzo, spokeswoman for Gertrude Hawk Chocolates, said her company is excited to earn the designation. “Gertrude Hawk is proud to be a huge part of the community and always support it,” she said. “So we are thrilled to be recognized as the best local chocolate.” Laura Taylor, store manager for the Gertrude Hawk Chocolates store in Kingston, wasn’t surprised to hear about the award. “We hear it on a daily basis,” she said, referring to customers saying Gertrude Hawk’s chocolate is the best in the area. “We do have people who come in, actually weekly, to repeat business.” Taylor was a customer before becoming an employee of the company, explaining she would often buy things for her own children. Her reason for wanting to work for the company was simple — she loved their products. “They have amazing NORTHEAST WINDOW, INC. 55 Front Street Pittston, Pennsylvania 18640 (570) 654-4220 1-800-648-4650 www.northeastwindow.com Northeast Window, Inc. would like to thank everyone who voted for us and are truly humbled by these awards. Nardozzo credits the company’s chocolate recipe as the defining factor in setting Gertrude Hawk Chocolate apart from other stores. “Hands down, it’s the creamiest, smoothest, best-tasting chocolate around,” she said. With Easter just around the corner, Taylor said a trip to a Gertrude Hawk Chocolates store is part of holiday traditions for many of her customers. She said Smidgens, chocolates that come in various shapes and flavors, are hot commodities at this time of the year. Chocolate-covered apples are also popular items. Taylor expects to sell at least 1,100 apples through the Easter season — annually, she estimates her store alone sells approximately 5,000 apples. “It’s definitely something that is close to people in this area,” Taylor said. “It’s definitely a tradition for people around here.” Reach Travis Kellar at 570-9916389 or on Twitter @TLNews Sean McKeag | Times Leader Sacred Heart of Jesus Church 215 Lackawanna Avenue Dupont, PA It is through our quality work and customers’ ER D satisfaction that we have LEA ES M I been in business for ET TH 2014 & 2016 over 29 years and RE BE have worked on over M ST OD EL 7000 homes throughout this area. BEST WINDOW COMPANY ST R BE OFE RO chocolate; I’ve always liked their chocolate, so I figured why not work where I know they have a good, quality product?” Taylor said. The company’s sweet legacy began in 1936 when Gertrude (Jones) Hawk opened the store in the kitchen of her family’s small home in the Bunker Hill section of Scranton. According to its website, the company now has over 60 retail locations in Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey. Northeast Window, Inc. 570-654-4220 1-800-648-4650 Call for a free estimate today Thank You from Father Verespy and Everyone at Sacred Heart. FOR VOTING US BEST BAZAAR READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Saturday, March 26, 2016 13 Honored to be voted Best Lasik Center for 3 years! Our your A sincere THANK YOU for voting us Best Chiropractors 3 years in a row! Your confidence in our abilities is the highest compliment you can give us. We are proud to continue to offer you the best treatment and service in NEPA. BucciVision.com 1-877-DR-BUCCI 14 Saturday, March 26, 2016 READERS’ CHOICE to Times Leader Readers Everywhere! Times Leader YOUR For Making: 2016 Reader’s Choice Winner For Best Import Car Dealer KINGSTON PA (570) 714-9924 KINGSTON PA (570) 287-1133 126 Narrows Road, Route 11 Larksville, PA • 570-288-7411 wyomingvalleymotors.com READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Saturday, March 26, 2016 15 Sean McKeag | Times Leader Store manager Laura Taylor creates Easter bunnies from white chocolate at Gertrude Hawk Chocolates in Kingston. Sean McKeag | Times Leader Laura Taylor, store manager, decorates apples dipped in dark chocolate at Gertrude Hawk Chocolates in Kingston. Congratulations from Steve Farrell Broker/Owner and Classic Properties ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL YEAR and Best Real Estate Agent 2016 - Silver Award Winner - Times Leader Reader’s Choice JESICCA SKOLODA JESICCA SKOLODA Realtor [email protected] (o) 570-718-4959; x1322 (c) 570.237.0463 100 agents in 5 offices throughout NEPA 1,402 Closed Transactions ($156) Million Closed in 2015 (GWBAR, GSBR, PMAR, BSAR) (Closed Transaction Stats) READERS’ CHOICE 16 Saturday, March 26, 2016 Times Leader Ken Pollock Auto Group cruises to title via customer service By Dave Rosengrant [email protected] When looking to buy a new car, the place to go is anywhere you see the Ken Pollock name. According to Times Leader readers, three area dealers, Ken Pollock Nissan in Wilkes-Barre, Ken Pollock Volvo in Pittston Township and Ken Pollock Ford and Lincoln in Berwick have been selected as the 2016 Readers’ Choice gold winner for Best New Car Dealer. “The biggest reason I can see us winning the award is the way we treat people,” said Mitch Quinn, general sales manager of the Nissan Dealership on Mundy Street in Wilkes-Barre. “Our customer service is always second to none and the prices are always good, as well.” Quinn couldn’t be more right. From the moment you walk onto the Nissan Dealership, you’re greeted by a friendly salesperson — not someone just trying to make a sale. The sales staff wants to make customers feel comfortable, giving space when needed at the beginning of the process all the way through the moment the new vehicle is signed, sealed and delivered. The sales team consists of 24 members across the three locations, all with the same mindset: the customer’s needs come first. “I think that comes from Ken, that comes from the top down,” Quinn said. “When you have the type of an owner who’s that customer-oriented, that flows through the whole organization. So the managers are able to man- Thank you for voting us #1 you dream it... WE CAN BUILD IT! west and east region of Pennsylvania, which includes 41 Nissan dealers. That means the local dealer in the Wilkes-Barre market competes with major markets like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. “When you have that kind of volume in Wilkes-Barre and you’re competing against bigger markets, it says we’re doing something right. It says a lot because we keep people coming back,” Quinn added. “So the Readers’ Choice Award is echoing the same stuff, that people are happy with the sales here.” Also under the Ken Pollock Auto Group is Nationwide Car Sales in Wilkes-Barre Township, a used car establishment. age differently and the sales people are able to deal differently. “Customer service is first, and with Ken’s name on the building, he’s made it clear that customer service comes first.” The friendliness of the staff doesn’t stop at sales. Everyone is nice, from the receptionist at the door to the owners, proves why these establishments have been voted tops by readers. All three venues have service departments that offer everything from oil changes to transmission replacements on all models. To understand why the group flourishes locally, look no further than the Nissan dealer, which consistently ranks at or near the top of all nine Nissan dealers in the Eastern Pennsylvania zone and throughout the entire Reach Dave Rosengrant at 570-991-6398 or on Twitter @tldrosengrant RECTANGULAR INGROUND POOLS 16 x 32....................$18,999 18 x 36....................$20,999 20 x 40....................$23,999 $200 PO OPEN OL INGS Installed with 500w light, 6’ Diving Board, 8’ walk-in steps and concrete sidewalk. Complete Swimming Pool Service Safety Cover Sales & Installation Topsoil & Hydroseeding Services Complete Excavating & Hauling GOT WATERFRONT? www.ThePool4U.com • 570-388-2514 NOW YOU CAN DESIGN YOUR DREAM DOCK WITH US Times Leader READERS’ CHOICE Fred Adams | For Times Leader Ken Pollock Nissan salesman Josh Mera shows a Nissan Murano to prospective buyers Renee Brutoski and Joe O’Donnell. Saturday, March 26, 2016 17 The Ken Pollock Nissan dealership on Mundy Street in Wilkes-Barre. THANK YOU Fred Adams | For Times Leader NEW LOCATION BEST FIREARMS DEALER at 755 South Twp. Blvd., Pittston, PA. for a Third Year in a Row ( Pittston Bypass ) for Choosing Us as In Loving Memory of Bailey Sue Summer ADVANCED ARMS, LLC G N I COM ! N O SO 81 South Main Street, Pittston • www.advancedarms.com • 570-655-4867 18 Saturday, March 26, 2016 READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Coccia takes truck honors for second year By John Erzar [email protected] PLAINS TWP. — The idea just isn’t to sell one vehicle to one person. It has to be done the correct way. Do it right and that customer might be back to buy another. And then another. And perhaps another. Coccia Ford Lincoln, located at the junction of Route 315 and East Main Street, has been following that philosophy for decades. Customer service — before, during and after the sale — put Coccia atop the Best New Truck Dealership in the Times Leader Readers’ Choice Awards. “We try to satisfy as many customers as we can,” said Greg Martin, general manager at Coccia. “We try to be fair, we try to be honest, we try to accommodate them in any way we can.” Coccia is also one of the top dealers in repeat customers. Martin said the top-10 percent includes dealers with at least a 68-percent return rate and Coccia is at 73 percent. “We’re way over the zone for the top-10 percent,” Martin said. The local award wasn’t the only one this month for Coccia. It also received the highest honor from the corporate headquarters. “We just found out this week we won the President’s Award for both Ford and Lincoln. They’re two separate franchises,” Martin said. “That’s very rare because it’s very hard to win the award. It’s based on customer satisfaction in both sales and service. What Ford does is they send out surveys to every customer that comes in for sales and every customer who comes in for service. Then they total up all the scores and have a ranking system. “The top dealers in the country win the President’s Award. We now won it 11 times. And it’s very rare to win it from both Ford and Lincoln.” The staple of Coccia’s Ford truck fleet is the F-150 pickup, the bestselling truck in the United States in 2015. The F-150 has claimed that distinction for 39 consecutive years, so it’s no surprise it also leads Coc- cia’s truck sales. The Escape has also sold well even after a radical design change for 2014 which saw the SUV transformed from a somewhat boxy shape to a sportier appearance. Coccia started out in Luzerne on a small strip of land on Main Street where Nicholas Wyoming Valley Truck Sales is now located. It moved to its present location about 20 years ago. The 10-acre facility has over 400 cars and trucks — both new and used — on its lot. “We’re a family owned business,” said Martin, who has been with Coccia for 25 years. “I’m sure some of our success is because of that.” Reach John Erzar at 570-991-6394 or on Twitter @ TLJohnErzar VOTED 39 ALLEN STREET | NANTICOKE PA 18634 570-735-5550 READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Clark Van Orden | Times Leader Greg Martin, general manager Coccia Ford in Plains Township, shows off a Ford F-150 pickup truck. FAMILY HEARING SOLUTIONS FOR ALL AGES AND ALL STAGES Jill Knecht Au. D., James Zeigler Au. D., Judith Johnston Au. D., and Robert Asby, M.S. THANK YOU FOR SELECTING US FOR THE Reader’s Choice Award FOR THREE YEARS IN A ROW Family Hearing H Center ZEIGLER - ASBY AUDIOLOGY ...all ages and all stages... Hearing tests, aids and protection for the entire family Kingston 570-714-2656 www.afamilyhearingcenter.com Dallas 570-675-8113 Saturday, March 26, 2016 19 20 Saturday, March 26, 2016 READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader CHECK US OUT BEFORE YOU BUY! For voting us your Reader’s Choice for Best Truck Dealer & Best Domestic Car Dealer as well as helping us earn the President’s Award for both Ford & Lincoln for 2015 YOU BUY! For Outstanding Customer Satisfaction 2015 2015 Coccia Ford Coccia Ford Now 11 Time Winner! Winner! 0% FOR 60 MONTHS PLUS $2,000 ON 2016 FORD FUSION 2016 FORD ESCAPE 2015 FORD FOCUS VOLUME FORD & LINCOLN DEALER IN NEPA FOR OVER 27 CONSECUTIVE YEARS CONVENIENTLY LOCATED BETWEEN SCRANTON & WILKES-BARRE READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Saturday, March 26, 2016 21 MLB Advertising has a results-focused approach Employees describe creative, motivating atmosphere By Gene Axton [email protected] WILKES-BARRE — Twenty years ago, AJ Zambetti returned to Northeastern Pennsylvania from the New York metropolitan area and took a job as art director for Maslow Lumia Bartorillo (MLB) Advertising. He has since been promoted to creative director, a position he has held for the last decade. Zambetti said he stays with the company because of what its offers both personally and professionally. MLB Advertising has been recognized as the Best Local Advertising Agency by Times Leader readers in the 2016 Readers’ Choice contest. “You get to really immerse yourself in clients and what they do without a lot of restrictions, so you can be as involved as you want to be without anyone holding you back,” Zambetti said. “I think that it also is a positive environment for people and families.” John Bartorillo, who served as creative director with previous iterations of the agency before becoming partner in 1991, returned the sentiment. “The team of people is really great,” Bartorillo said. “They all have their own area of specialization but they’re all part of the team so we work together. We have a very diverse client group that spreads itself out over technology and consumer and business-to-business. I think that’s really a good thing.” MLB Advertising’s clients include WilkesBarre/Scranton International Airport, Intermetro Industries and rehab specialists Allied Services. The latter is one of Graphic Designer Kristen Blake’s favorite accounts to work with. “You feel like you’re really on the team with Allied,” Blake said. “You see our advertising efforts getting stories out of people getting better and getting back to the lives they love.” That type of immersion isn’t exclusive to Blake’s experiences with clients; Art Director Michael Scholl has a similar relationship with local grocery store chain Gerrity’s. “I do a lot of work with Gerrity’s,” Scholl said. “I feel like I work there sometimes.” According to Bartorillo, he and his team approach every client from the small, one-time jobs to the large, long-standing partnerships with the same goal: to be indis- Tony Callaio | for Times Leader Shown here at MLB Advertising are, from left, seated, Kristen Blake, designer; Mike Avvisato, business development. Standing, John Bartorillo, president; AJ Zambetti, creative director. pensable. According to him, MLB Advertising accomplishes this by forging a relationship with its clients that’s based on competency and mutual respect. “Our theme that we use is we create results,” Bartorillo said. “We try to find the truth in the client’s product or service and we try to express it in ways that are relevant to the customer. Then we tie it to a result, which makes their business go further.” Reach Gene Axton at 570-991-6121 or on Twitter @TLArts 22 Saturday, March 26, 2016 READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Times Leader READERS’ CHOICE Saturday, March 26, 2016 23 Turkey Hill named best convenience store third year in a row By Nick Wagner [email protected] Wyoming Valley readers decided one convenience store in the area is above the rest when it comes to gas and grub. Turkey Hill Minit Markets earned the Times Leader’s Readers’ Choice nod for the Best Convenience Store. This is the third straight year the store has won the honor, making it a “platinum” honoree. In the Wyoming Valley area, Turkey Hill operates 25 stores with eight of those stores in Wilkes-Barre alone, including a new one at the intersection of Coal Street and Wilkes-Barre Boulevard that opened in October 2015. The majority of stores also offer pay-atthe-pump fueling options. In January 2015, Turkey Hill opened and expanded a new location on Memorial Highway in Dallas to replace a store that operated further down the highway. The new, 4,000-square foot location provides passers-by and residents of the Back Mountain a one-stop shop for all convenience store needs. With their “Fresh To Go” options, Turkey Hill stores feature everything from selections of sandwiches, pizzas, subs, wraps and grilled options. The stores have a variety of choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner, offering salads and snack options. As far as beverage options go, Turkey Hill offers Coffee Central and Soda Central, which allow customers to customize drink options, along with coolers of varieties of beverages. Turkey Hill ice cream made with natural ingredients is stocked in store freezers. Several stores throughout the Wyoming Valley offer different non-food or drink options. Many serve as a RedBox location and some even offer car washes. Each store offers a full behindthe-counter convenience for tobacco This is the third straight year the store has won the honor, making it a “platinum” honoree. Aimee Dilger | Times Leader file photo The new Turkey Hill Minit Market in Wilkes-Barre Boulevard opened in October 2015. Turkey Hill has been named the Times Leader Readers’ Choice award winner for Best Convenience Store. products and lottery games. Along with dining options, Turkey Hill stores also cater to automobile fuel needs and, in 2010, the company introduced its Rewards Card program. The first Turkey Hill store opened in 1967 in Lancaster by Charlesand Emerson Frey. The company has expanded to 270 stores in Pennsylvania, Ohio and Indiana, 230 of which offer gasoline options. Turkey Hill’s headquarters is in Manor Township, near the Susquehanna River, just outside Lancaster. Turkey Hill is one of five convenience store chains operated by The Kroger Co. Reach Nick Wagner at 570-991-6406 or on Twitter @ Dispatch_Nick READERS’ CHOICE 24 Saturday, March 26, 2016 Times Leader Gerri Bridal has helped brides look beautiful for three generations By Mary Therese Biebel [email protected] PITTSTON — When she began preparations for her November wedding, Kristen Osenkarski, of Hughestown, knew exactly where she’d look for her bridal gown. “My best friend came here for her wedding last year, and every dress she tried on was beautiful,” Osenkarski said, her glance taking in a rack of gowns at Gerri Bridal in Pittston. Osenkarski has had a successful search at Gerri Bridal, too, where she said owner Judy Monko and her daughter, Michelle DeBiasi, have made her feel “absolutely, 100 percent” pampered and well cared for. Many Times Leader readers agree; they voted Gerri Bridal the Best Bridal Shop in this year’s Times Leader Readers’ Choice Award contest. “Michelle really knows, when she sees the bride, what will flatter her,” Osenkarski said. “I thought I wanted a ball gown but I didn’t end up with that.” Because the bride-to-be is quite petite, Monko said, a ball gown with a full, Cinderellatype skirt would overwhelm her. DeBiasi found her a different style gown she loves but, we must point out, the gown Osenkarski is wearing in a Times Leader photograph is NOT the one she will wear at her wedding. She agreed to model a different one so her guests and especially her groom, David Tetlak, will see her gown for the first time on her wedding day. Gerri Bridal likes to maintain that wedding tradition, along with other customs, Monko said. “We tell the brides their gown is ‘something new’ and we give them a garter to be their ‘something blue’ so they just have to find ‘something old’ and ‘something borrowed.’” Kristen Osenkarski, of Hughestown, models a wedding gown at Gerri Bridal Shop, Pittston. This one is beautiful, she said, but she’ll wear a different one at her November wedding. Thank you Leading Provider of Garage Doors, and Door openers in NEPA To Our Patients and the Readers for Voting Dr. Harris and Dr. Kile the “Best” 3 Years in a Row Celebrating 50 years of caring for kids! Accepting New Patients • Offering FREE Pre-Baby Classes For Expectant Parents kingstonpeds.com 288-6543 570-288-6543 Pe d i a t r i c A s s o c i a t e s o f K i n g s t o n , L L C Thank You Times Leader Readers! 570.696.1757 TRUCKSVILLE Times Leader READERS’ CHOICE Saturday, March 26, 2016 25 The shop itself is a family tradition, now in its third generation. Monko’s mother, Regina Jerrytone, used to work at the former Zimmerman’s bridal shop in Wilkes-Barre where there was another Regina, so her co-workers called her Gerri, a feminine version of the first two syllables of her last name. The original “Gerri” opened her own shop 50 years ago in Pittston, where her daughter Judy pitched in to help “since day one.” Granddaughter Michelle has been at the shop since babyhood, Monko said, remembering how she went into labor at the store, delivered the baby at the hospital and, a few days later, stopped by the store to introduce the new arrival to the seamstresses. Michelle DeBiasi practically grew up at Gerri Bridal where she’s developed a knack for helping brides find something that makes them feel like a queen while expressing their personality and enhancing their beauty. “Everybody’s got their own unique style and unique taste,” DeBiasi said. “That’s what’s fun about this business. It’s like fitting the pieces of a puzzle together.” Within the next few weeks, mother and daughter Monko and DeBiasi are looking forward to moving Gerri Bridal a few blocks away from its old location on North Main Street to the New Rose Building, a mural-covered structure on South Main Street, still in downtown Pittston. Reach Mary Therese Biebel at 570-991-6109 or on Twitter @BiebelMT Tony Callaio | For Times Leader Michelle DeBiasi, co-owner of Gerri Bridal Shop, shows Kristen Osenkarski, of Hughestown, some contrasting styles of bridal gowns. SANITARY BAKERY In Business Since 1918 126 E. Ridge St., Nanticoke, Pa. | 570-735-6630 THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST BAKERY! Sanitary Bakery specializes in custom made all occasion cakes and desserts. We take great pride in preparing all our cakes using only the finest ingredients, ensuring you with superior quality, freshness and taste. Unlike grocery store bakeries, our cakes and breads are baked on the day of your event, prepared just the way you requested. We are conveniently located in the heart of Nanticoke City at 126 E. Ridge Street and we are owned and operated by Joe and Ed Kowalski. 26 Saturday, March 26, 2016 READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader King’s College named best local college By Mark Guydish [email protected] As King’s College celebrates its 70th anniversary, the current president and three past presidents got together at the University of Portland, which — like King’s — was set up by the congregation of the Holy Cross. From left, are The Rev. Charles Sherrer (1974-81), The Rev. James Lackenmier (1981-1999), The Rev. Thomas O’Hara (1999-2011) and The Rev. John Ryan (2011-present, the ninth president). THANK YOU PATRONS, FAMILY & FRIENDS VOTED BEST LOCAL FIRE ARM DEALER PIESTRAK’S GUN SHOP 104 ALDEN MTN. RD., NANTICOKE 735-3776 OR 1-800-281-0716 WILKES-BARRE — The humble beginnings story is pretty well known, A priest dispatched from Notre Dame with a pocket full of money and a typewriter establishes Wyoming Valley’s first college for the sons of miners, and a local landmark is born. King’s College marks its 70th anniversary this year, something The Rev. John Ryan, in his fifth year as president, said likely will be only modestly marked. “We may wait until the 75th for a bigger celebration.” This also marks the third consecutive year King’s has won the Times Leader’s Readers’ Choice Award as the Best Local College/University. It’s an honor that makes Vice President for Enrollment Management Corry Unis — a pretty big booster for the college any time — gush upbeat. “I think the future is bright for us, Unis said. “I started working at the college in 2013 and what the team has been able to do is increase applications by 35, 40 percent. That’s huge knowing demographics are going the wrong way.” High school enrollments and extension graduates going onto higher education have been declining in the area and the state, and King’s College student Betty Montgomery, of Philadelphia local colleges have had to work harder to sustain enrollment. While King’s, like others, has looked to compensate with more international students — Ryan noted that enrollment has climbed from 1 to nearly 100 in a few years — Unis said King’s has “increased its local market share each year.” Yes, tuition has climbed, but Ryan noted financial aid has increased at a faster rate, so by that yardstick King’s is arguably more affordable now than a few years ago. He believes the college’s fundamental strength is commitment to its original mission: Teaching students to make a living and make a life. Unis said King’s keeps true to three principles: Personalized attention with an average of 17 students per class, a caring community that builds relationships with students, and professional preparation of the staff. That Notre Dame con- Corry Unis nection doesn’t hurt. Ryan said 13 students are heading there for an engineering degree, thanks to a dual enrollment agreement. “Any time we get to co-brand ourselves with our sister school adds to a level of prestige,” Unis said. Maybe, but students cite the atmosphere of friendship and the sports. “As soon as I came to King’s, it felt right. When I came for a tour, everyone was so nice and helpful,” said Alexa Lambert, 20, a junior from Alburtis, near Allentown. King’s 5-year physician assistant program was a draw, as was the opportunity to participate on the swim team. “I came and immediately fell in love with King’s,” said Betty Montgomery, 21, a theater major from Philadelphia. “You’re not just a number here. Everybody knows your name.” She learned about King’s at a college fair in high school and intended READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader to study special education, but switched to theater as a major because she fell in love with that, too. She’s already had one job interview in the Philadelphia area. Senior Angela Coco was looking for “a small, Catholic and supportive” college, and selected King’s after a visit because the people “I met were so incredibly inspiring and interested in me! It felt right. “King’s’ best attribute is the community on campus,” she continued. “Everyone knows me: students, professors, and staff. The people here are my beloved mentors, coworkers, spiritual leaders and friends. They want to help me succeed.” Saturday, March 26, 2016 27 Kings College senior Angela Coco THANKS YOU! The For Making AWARD Us Your GOLD WINNER For BEST NEW CAR DEALER Ken Nissan 339 HWY 315, PITTSTON, PA • 570-301-6915 229 MUNDY ST., WILKES-BARRE, PA • 1-866-704-0672 1120 FRONT ST., BERWICK, PA • 570-752-2797 kenpollockautogroup.com READERS’ CHOICE 28 Saturday, March 26, 2016 Times Leader Freshly baked products and butcher shop give Gerrity’s nod By Brigid Edmunds [email protected] LUZERNE — From freshly baked pastries made in store to a fully functioning butcher shop, Gerrity’s Supermarkets strives for customer satisfaction. The familial atmosphere and commitment to quality has earned the family-run business a gold award in the Times Leader Readers’ Choice Awards. For co-owner Joe Fasula, the company is honored to not only receive the award, but to know its customers appreciate the work the Gerrity’s family puts into serving the community. “It’s nice to know our customers notice,” Fasula said. While the strong sense of family has driven the business since the beginning, Fasula says there are a “blend of things” that give Gerrity’s the edge over other supermarkets, including its in-store food production and competitive sales. “Our tie to the community is important,” Fausla said. As a local business, he said, the company tries to give back to the community as much as possible through donations and fundraisers. William Gerrity opened the first Gerrity’s Market in 1895. At first, it was just a small meat shop. According to the store’s website, Gerrity passed the store down to his three sons, William Jr., Joseph and Thomas. After William Jr. moved out of the area and Thomas passed away, Joseph Gerrity became the sole owner. According to Fasula, his father, Neal, began working Pete G. Wilcox|Times Leader Co-owner of Gerrity’s Supermarket Joe Fasula places customer John Morgan’s groceries in a shopping cart at the Gerrity’s Supermarket in Luzerne on Tuesday. in the store when he was about 12 years old and eventually Neal and Joseph Gerrity became partners. Once Gerrity retired, he sold his half of the business to Neal. After Neal passed away, Fasula’s mother, Joyce, known to most as “Mom,” became president of the company and has since become the face of Gerrity’s — something Fasula attributes to the store’s success. “(Having a female owner) is really powerful in the grocery business, because women do most of the food shopping,” he said. He thinks “Mom” offers a strong connection to the female shopper. However, if Fasula did have to pick a top reason for the company’s success, it would be the employees. Fasula said the company is lucky because it has many employees who have been at the company for many years and have invested a lot into their work at Gerrity’s. “We have employees who are experienced, who care and who give good service,” Fasula said. “They’re the ones that really make it happen.” Employee Jean Bilbow has been at Gerrity’s for eight years and says it feels like “one big happy family.” Bilow believes customer service and employee friendliness makes Gerrity’s stand out from other supermarkets in the area. “I’d like to think we go beyond the call of duty (to make sure) the customer leaves here completely satisfied,” she said. Bilbow also expressed how the relationship between the owners and employees helps her get more out of her job. “When I started working here, I had no idea I would get so much more out it,” she said. “You give and you get back.” Reach Brigid Edmunds at 570-991-6119. Times Leader READERS’ CHOICE Saturday, March 26, 2016 29 30 Saturday, March 26, 2016 READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Cook’s Pharmacy is best for service, supplies, quality advice By Geri Gibbons [email protected] KINGSTON — When entering Cook’s Pharmacy on Wyoming Avenue, the brightness and cleanliness of the local drug store stands out. Overseeing operations is registered pharmacist and owner Jim Gaudino, who is never too busy to make his way to the pharmacy counter and provide information to customers. On a recent day just after noon, Gaudino had already answered several customer questions in regard to their prescriptions. Customers want to know whether a prescription might interfere with another prescription they are taking, how long a drug can be kept, how it can be stored or if it is necessary to finish a prescription. For these questions, Gaudino and his staff of 35 are always available. It is because of this personal service that Cook’s Pharmacy has been named Best Pharmacy in the 2016 Times Leader Readers’ Choice contest. Although Gaudino and his wife, Dawn, purchased the business in 2002 from Dawn’s father, Fred Lombardo, it is a family business that dates back to 1967. Lombardo bought the pharmacy from the Cook family in 1967, keeping that family name attached to the business The full-service pharmacy not only provides quality service on site, but also offers delivery service. The pharmacy also carries a full line of over-thecounter products and cosmetics. To fit the needs of its customers, the pharmacy offers compounding, specifically prepared prescriptions to its customers, as well as immunizations. Gaudino uses every opportunity to meet the needs of the community, including technology. Facebook posts from the pharmacy not only provide basic information, but Gaudino uses every opportunity to meet the needs of the community, including technology. also alert members of the community to the latest in medical news, such as a new ADHD drug, which children can take by mouth, and heart health awareness. The pharmacy maintains a Twitter account, providing links to information customers might find interesting, including the dangers of chewing ice and how to strengthen fingernails. Gaudino views his pharmacy as not just a service or product, but an opportunity to interface with members of the community and to inform them of important medical information. He looks forward to continuing to serve the community in person, by delivery and online. Reach Geri Gibbons at 570-991-6117 or on Twitter @ TLGGibbons Thanks to everyone who took the time to vote us Best Local Bar & Best Martini Times Leader READERS’ CHOICE Saturday, March 26, 2016 31 Thank you Times mes Leader LLead eaad ader deerr Readers Read Rea Re R eeade ad der errs eers rs for foorr voting voot oti tin ing The TTh he Joan Joaan n Harris Centre THE BEST DANCE STUDIO Our Staff, Our Dancers And Our Families Truly Appreciate Your Recognition Follow Us On Facebook The Joan Harris Centre 570-287-7977 Leggio’s Italian Ristorante Amanda Hrycyna | For Times Leader Jim Gaudino, owner of Cook’s Pharmacy, is shown in the pharmacy on Wyoming Avenue in Kingston. Serving Lunch and Dinner. Now Also Serving Breakfast at the Dallas Location. Thank You for Supporting Local Businesses! Best Italian Food Thank You For Voting Us Best Towing Service. We Appreciate Your Support ➢ Tows & Winch Outs ➢ Jump Starts & More ➢ PA State Inspections ➢ Flat Tires ➢ Lockouts ➢ All Auto Repairs 3603 SR 309 Highway, Dallas 18612 570-674-2354 (2ELI) 80722792 64 Center Hill Road, Dallas 570-675-4511 1092 Highway 315, Plains 570-822-0861 READERS’ CHOICE 32 Saturday, March 26, 2016 Times Leader Times Leader 2016 Readers’ Choice Awards event Annual event at Genetti’s Conference Center honors businesses voted by readers as ‘best’ All photos by Sean McKeag People mingle at the bar in Genetti’s ballroom before the Times Leader Readers’ Choice. An attendee applauds during the Readers’ Choice awards ceremony. An attendee laughs during the Times Leader Readers’ Choice awards ceremony Tuesday night. Jason Gilroy, of Northeast Window in Pittston, returns to his seat after accepting his award. Tom Huynh from Casabella Nails & Spa accepts his award. Joe and Sandy Fasula, of Fire & Ice on Toby Creek, accept an award from Times Leader Advertising Manager Kerry Miscavage. PAC Construction receives a gold award for Best Remodeler. An attendee enjoys herself during the Times Leader Readers’ Choice awards ceremony at Genetti’s Tuesday night. Times Leader Times Leader Advertising Director Anthony Spina welcomes everyone to the Readers’ Choice ceremony at Genetti’s Tuesday night. READERS’ CHOICE Dr. James DeFinnis of Back Mountain Dental was honored as ‘Best Dentist.’ Saturday, March 26, 2016 33 Turkey Hill was named Best Convenience Store for the third year in a row, making it a Platinum winner. Joe Fasula, center, and Joyce Fasula, right, of Gerrity’s supermarkets, accept their award Attendees of the ceremony watch the Readers’ Choice awards being given at Genetti’s on Tuesday. from Times Leader Advertising Director Kerry Miscavage. Women’s Boutique and Consignments won the gold award for the Best Clothing Boutique. Kevin Smith, left, Broker/Owner, Century 21 Smith Hourigan Group, and David Hourigan, Broker/Owner, Century 21 Smith Hourigan Group, accept the gold award for Best Real Estate Agency from Times Leader Advertising Manager Kerry Miscavage. 34 Saturday, March 26, 2016 READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Saturday, March 26, 2016 35 Audiologists Dr. Judith Johnston, left, Robert Asby and Dr. Jill Knecht, of Family Hearing Center in Kingston and Dallas. Jim Gaudino, owner of Cook’s Pharmacy. Bill Tarutis | For Times Leader Amanda Hrycyna|For Times Leader PLATINUM PREFERRED CONTRACTOR A+ member Northeastern & Central PA Thank you SMITH & MILLER ROOFING, INC. ROBERT SMITH, West Pittston Established 1976 570-655-6710 Thank You For Voting Us Best Dance Studio! The Back Mountain’s #1 choice in dance for children since 1990 Dance Studio • 5 Goodman Road, Dallas Tap • Ballet • Hip Hop HIC# PA-005521 (570) 675-7227 Ages 3 and up 80726993 to our customers who voted us as One of the Best Roofing Companies! We Appreciate Your Support! READERS’ CHOICE 36 Saturday, March 26, 2016 Times Leader Family Hearing Center earns top honors By Steve Mocarsky [email protected] Submitted photo Dr. Jim Zeigler owns Family Hearing Center in Kingston and Dallas, where he works with three other licensed audiologists to provide comprehensive hearing services to patients from infants to senior citizens. KINGSTON — Having good hearing is important in so many aspects of life — work, school, socialization and, not least of all, personal safety. Family Hearing Center has earned the confidence of Times Leader readers when it comes to ensuring they can hear the important things in their lives. With offices in Kingston and Dallas and more than 100 years of combined experience between the four audiologists who work there, the practice has captured the Times Leader Readers’ Choice award for Best Hearing Aid Center for the third year in a row, earning it a platinum designation this year. “We’ve been around the longest, that may account for some of it,” Robert Asby said of the trust level of patients. In 1967, when Asby was director of the Department of Audiology at the Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, he established the first independent audiology practice in Pennsylvania with two physicians also formerly on the Geisinger staff. The group installed the latest in diagnostic hearing testing equipment to provide a series of firsts in comprehensive audiology care in northeastern Pennsylvania. Robert Asby & Associates was the first audiology practice in the region to fit advanced technology hearing aids in a comprehensive audiology and medical setting. Other firsts include the addition of newborn hearing testing and the establishment of a center for Auditory Evoked Response testing at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital. Over the years, the practice changed locations, as well as names. It temporarily relocated to Wilkes-Barre General Hospital after the flood of 1972, and then moved to an adjacent medical arts building. Dr. James Zeigler, the current owner, who was away at a seminar and unable to participate in an interview, joined the practice in 1987. Robert Asby & Associates even- tually became Asby & Zeigler Audiology, and the group was the first audiology practice to fit computer programmable hearing aids in northeastern Pennsylvania. Dr. Judith Johnston joined the team in 1997 and, three years later, the practice relocated to the current offices at the Park Office Building on Third Avenue in Kingston and Twin Stacks Center on Memorial Highway in Dallas. Dr. Jill Knecht joined the practice in 2011 and the name was changed to Family Hearing Center. READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Knecht believes the benefits of having four licensed audiologists working together adds to patient satisfaction. “It allows us to schedule enough time for each patient, and that’s one of the reasons I like working here. We absolutely don’t schedule ourselves so that we’re rushed. We make sure that we have enough time to answer all the questions, to make sure the patients are comfortable,” Knecht said. “One of the complaints we hear from other offices is that people are rushed in and out,” Asby added. “This is all hi-tech and there’s a lot to do and it takes time. And among the group we see everyone from infants to the elderly.” “That’s one of the reasons we changed the name to Family Hearing Center,” Knecht continued. “We want people to know that if we’re seeing someone’s grandmother, we can also see their grandchild. We can do that all here and they can be comfortable with everyone seeing the same person.” Saturday, March 26, 2016 37 Bill Tarutis | For Times Leader Audiologists Dr. Jill Knecht, left, Dr. Judith Johnston and Robert Asby use a Real-Ear instrument for testing hearing aids at Family Hearing Center in Kingston. Johnston said “more personalized follow-up care” is another perk patients appreciate. “It’s not like a onesize-fits-all hearing aid. We take into account everyone’s individual listening needs and then help them decide what type of hearing aid is best for them. We don’t just fit them and forget about our patients. We see them back for several follow-up visits to make sure things are working well, to make sure they’re comfortable,” Johnston said. Asby said hearing aids are “miniaturized computers, so we interface them with our larger computer. And every hearing aid that comes out of this office is custom-fit to the person’s ear and to their hearing pattern, their hearing test results. That probably sets us apart. We really match the person and the instrument, and that’s what this equipment is all about.” Johnston said audiology technology is constantly evolving, and the practice keeps up with acquiring the latest equipment to better serve patients. For example, a device called New Ear allows the audiologists to place a microphone in a patient’s ear canal next to the ear drum, place the patient’s hearing aid on top of it, and get a readout on a computer screen showing how well the hearing aid is actually working in the patient’s ear, Johnston explained. “Things are changing all the time,” Knecht said. “You almost need an IT degree to keep up with it,” she added with a laugh. Reach Steve Mocarsky at 570-991-6386 or on Twitter @ TLSteveMocarsky. Thank ank Y You ou uF For or Your Support. or Best Carpet Store (down on Main St. in Pittston) Thanking all our loyal clients for another gold win! 109 South Main St., Pittston • 570-602-PAWS (7297) Hardwood Ceramic Tile Linoleum Laminate Flooring • Carpet & KW K WC Carpets t More • • • • For All Your Floor Covering Needs 12 Months 12 Moonths nths Same Saame me As As Cash Cash Available Cas AAvaila Av vailaabble Mon, Thurs 9am - 8pm • Tues, Wed, Fri 9am - 5pm • Sat 9am - 3pm 570-675-8691 309 Memorial Hwy, Dallas, PA 18612 (Behind Gino’s Shoe Store on Rt. 309) 38 Saturday, March 26, 2016 READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Polishing teeth with a smile awards James DeFinnis of Back Mountain Dental ‘Best Dentist’ award By Eileen Godin [email protected] KINGSTON TWP. — Dr. James DeFinnis of Back Mountain Dental not only calms patients’ fears; he gives them a reason to smile. DeFinnis’ patients, in turn, have shown their gratitude by voting him as “Best Dentist” in the 2016 Times Leader Readers’ Choice Awards for the third consecutive year. It’s not just DeFinnis’s white smile that earned him this recognition, but his chair-side manner, thorough exams and upbeat office atmosphere, said patient Suzanne Haas, of Franklin Township. “He has a great personality. He picked his team really well,” Haas said. “He is a perfectionist which is what you want from a dentist.” “It is quite flattering to be chosen for the past three years as ‘Best Dentist,’” DeFinnis said. “This award is a testament to my support team.” The eight-member staff of dental hygienists and office staff members shares a common motto of being “serious about dentistry, but we do not take ourselves seriously,” DeFinnis said. Humorous rapport among DeFinnis, his staff and patients can ease jittery nerves of those in the exam chair. “We have grown a business by calming nerves,” he said. DeFinnis said his commitment to providing patients with comprehensive dental care sets him apart from others in his field. An example of his dedication is a computerized device called CEREC placed in a corner of an exam room. CEREC allows DeFinnis to measure, design and carve a porcelain block into a dental crown for installation in one day. Typically, dental crowns require a two-visit procedure requiring patients to take more time off from work, he said. “It (CEREC) reduces a patient’s need to take off time from work for a return visit,” he said. Dentistry has played a role in DeFinnis’ life since childhood. His father, John, is a dentist in Berwick. DeFinnis began practicing dentistry in his father’s office for almost a year before the opportunity to purchase the Back Mountain practice came available, he said. DeFinnis established his practice at 210 Carverton Road in Trucksville in 2000. “It was a great opportunity,” the Berwick native said. “The Back Mountain is a great area to raise a family.” “Dentistry is a family affair,” the 42-year-old said. “My brother, Tom, has a dental practice in Philadelphia.” Even DeFinnis’ wife, Jodee, keeps Back Mountain Dental organized. DeFinnis and his wife live in Shavertown and have three daughters, Isabella, 10; Nadia, 8; and Mila, 4. Reach Eileen Godin at 570-991-6387 or on Twitter @ TLNews. Times Leader READERS’ CHOICE Saturday, March 26, 2016 39 Fred Adams | For Times Leader Dentist James DeFinnis at Back Mountain Dental in Kingston Township displays a computerized device called CEREC that can design and carve a dental crown while the patient waits. Fred Adams | For Times Leader James DeFinnis of Back Mountain Dental works on a patient Suzanne Haas, of Franklin Township. Haas described DeFinnis as a perfectionist when it comes to dentistry. READERS’ CHOICE 40 Saturday, March 26, 2016 Thank You Times Leader Readers! GOLD WINNER for BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY We are thrilled to add this award to the many other awards we received from CENTURY 21 Corporate for SUPERIOR SERVICES to our clients and customers. 2015 WAS AN AWARD WINNING YEAR FOR OUR COMPANY CENTURY 21 Corporate recognized our company and our offices for an outstanding year in 2015. OUR COMPANY AWARDS #3 Company in Pennsylvania in Units Sold #4 Company in Pennsylvania in Commission Volume CENTURY 21 Corporate Per Person Productivity Award OFFICE AWARDS All three offices earned the coveted CENTURY 21 Quality Service Pinnacle Award for Outstanding Service Our Mountaintop and Shavertown offices won the CENTURY 21 Gold Medallion Award for Superior Sales Performance AGENT MASTERS AWARDS Awarded for superior levels of sales performance Masters Diamond Masters Emerald Masters Ruby Donna Klug Al Clemonts Debbie Reed Pam McGovern Sue Barre Michael Pinko Michelle Reilly Rick Gaetano Lynda Rowinski QUALITY SERVICE AGENT AWARDS Awarded based on surveys returned by clients served for superior service QUALITY SERVICE PINNACLE Debbie Reed Michael Pinko Pam McGovern Cathy Tkaczyk Al Clemonts Linda Cuono Nikki Callahan Rick Gaetano Heidi Kozlowski Ruth Hollander QUALITY SERVICE Michelle Reilly Barbara Mark Joan Everett Lynda Rowinski Valerie Zane Carl Goeringer, Jr. Jolyn Bartoli Pat Gazenski Proud to serve Wyoming Valley and all of Luzerne County creating a superior customer experience every sale. WHAT’S BETTER THAN FOUR AWARDS FOR CUSTOMER SATISFACTION? EIGHT. For the second year in a row, the CENTURY 21® brand ranked “Highest Overall Satisfaction for First-Time and Repeat Home Buyers and Sellers” by J.D. Power. Congratulations again to our many driven agents. Shavertown 570.696.1195 Kingston 570.287.1196 Mountaintop 570.474.6307 Century21SHGroup.com Times Leader Bucci Laser Vision is tops in world of ophthalmology By Joe Dolinsky [email protected] WILKES-BARRE — Before establishing himself as one of the nation’s premier eye surgeons, Dr. Frank Bucci carved up the competition on the hardwood. Growing up in northern New Jersey, Bucci helped lead his high school hoops team to an appearance in the state finals. A full basketball scholarship followed at Florida’s Rollins College, where Bucci captained a squad that was among the top Division II programs in the nation. An athletics career didn’t pan out for the avid sports fan, but Bucci still finds himself tops in the nation in another category as an expert in opthamology. The 64-year-old Bucci has performed nearly 28,000 microsurgical ophthalmic procedures, published dozens of articles in medical literature and has been at the forefront of the technology since its inception. Bucci Laser Vision, the eye institute and surgery center Bucci founded in Wilkes-Barre in 1998, was named the Times Leader Readers’ Choice award winner for the third consecutive year. Bucci, who also operates a large notfor-profit ophthalmology center in Lima, Peru, said winning the award solidifies the emphasis the institute puts on patient care. “To me, it reinforces that our patients believe we’re delivering for the community,” Bucci said of the award from inside the eye institute’s state-of-the-art operating room. If a procedure goes off without a hitch and a patient can see more clearly than before, they’ll spread the word, Bucci said, adding the result has a stronger reach than any advertisement could. “Word of mouth is everything,” Bucci said. Just as important is the institute’s diversity in providing multiple surgeries across the board. Some specialists perform LASIK but lack in their surgical prowess, while other centers have cataract surgeons Sean McKeag | Times Leader Dr. Frank Bucci discusses the process of removing cataracts in the operating room of Bucci Laser Vision in Wilkes-Barre. who put in implants but don’t specialize in LASIK, Bucci said. Bucci credits staff members, a “key group of people” who ensure things at the Wilkes-Barre institute run smoothly. Part of that consistency, he said, is due to an emphasis on education. Bucci Laser Vision offers free seminars on the ins and outs of procedures, hosted by Bucci himself. During the monthly meetings, attendees can talk to patients who have already had surgeries, Bucci said. If a prospective patient doesn’t want to attend the seminar or can’t make it to one, Bucci offers free one-on-one consultations. Bucci has also made his mark branching out into philanthropy. In 2003, he co-founded Hospice of the Sacred Heart in Wilkes-Barre. The agency now has 105 employees in nine counties and has served over 11,000 dying people, Bucci said. Despite a frenetic schedule that has Bucci frequenting flights to Peru, volunteering at the hospice, lecturing around the globe and performing consultations and surgeries that number nearly 30 each day, Bucci’s enthusiasm hasn’t waned. “I don’t have a job and other activities,” Bucci said. “I have a life, and this is all part of my life.” Reach Joe Dolinsky at 570-991-6110 or on Twitter @ JoeDolinskyTL Times Leader READERS’ CHOICE Saturday, March 26, 2016 41 Sean McKeag | Times Leader Sean McKeag | Times Leader Dr. Frank Bucci talks about his practice in the operating room of Bucci Laser Vision in Wilkes-Barre. Dr. Frank Bucci looks through an instrument used to perform eye surgeries in the operating room at Bucci Laser Vision in Wilkes-Barre. Graz ie THANKS for Voting Us Best Round Pizza 2016 Readers Choice The Times Leader 445 HAZLE AVE. Wi l k e s B a r r e HOURS: OPEN SAT-THURS 4:00 PM TO MIDNIGHT Friday: 10:00 AM to Midnight 829-9728 80723541 READERS’ CHOICE 42 Saturday, March 26, 2016 Times Leader Food, drinks and family create atmosphere at R Bar & Grill NEWPORT TWP. — The R Bar & Grill, a family owned bar, is the place to unwind and enjoy good food and drinks. Times Leader readers agree as the township bar won the Best Local Bar category in the 2016 Readers’ Choice Awards. The bar, which has served lower Luzerne County for five years, is in its second location. Sisters Lauren Maga, of Wapwallopen, and Lindsey Temerantz, of Nanticoke, “outgrew” their old building on Union Street, Nanticoke, and upgraded to 119 Kirmar Ave., the site of the old Alden Manor. The current building is five times larger than the other building. “We closed for one week, four days actually,” Maga said about the move that took place in November 2014. The restaurant/bar is a “family affair” for the sisters and they try to keep the place comfortable. If a patron gets out of hand, they’re placed on the bar’s banned list. “We do not put up with anything,” Maga said. “We want people to feel like family.” Being able to work around her family life, Maga said, means not missing important dates in the lives of her 9-year-old and 6-year-old children. “Family comes first,” she said. Temerantz admittedly is the “calmer” sister while Maga is a “panicker.” “She can call me on a stressful day,” Temerantz said. “We have a good balance.” The duo started with 12 bar stools in the Union Street location and has grown to 29 tables and 20 bar stools. The Alden Room is a 150 person capacity banquet hall on the top floor, which “is booked with parties for next year.” The larger area allows for more employees as the business grew from five to 30 workers. “They might as well be family,” Maga said of the employees. Walking into the bar and restaurant takes individuals back to their nearest local service station as old street signs, hubcaps and license plates adorn the walls. Temerantz considers it a “garage-y” feeling. “People will come in and say, ‘Oh I found this and brought it for you,’” Maga said about some of the decor. There is a spot dedicated to firefighters and police officers with department patches and other memorabilia under glass at the bar. The menu offers typical bar fare, including over 60 wing flavors, sandwiches and burgers. The sisters also have a late night menu served after 11 p.m. for bar patrons. Flights of beer and flights of mixed drinks are also featured. The idea to open the bar was “something for us, a legacy,” the sisters noted. “Our dad (who owns One Stop Service Shop on Alden Road in Nanticoke) wanted us to do something for us,” Maga said. The bar business made sense, since Maga has been in the business since she was 18 years old. “She creates the drinks,” Termerantz said. Reach Melanie Mizenko at 570-9916116 or on Twitter @TL_MMizenko Aimee Dilger|Times Leader Lindsey Temerantz, co-owner of The R Bar, works in the serving station of the restaurant. The bar/ restaurant is decorated with pieces from American history, such as automobile hub caps and license plates. READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader R Bar owner Lauren Maga makes a signature drink while her sister, Lindsey Tamerantz, helps out behind the counter. Saturday, March 26, 2016 43 Sean McKeag | Times Leader Sean McKeag | Times Leader Sean McKeag | Times Leader The Pickled Bloody Mary, a signature drink at the R Bar, is topped with fresh bacon. A few of the R Bar’s signature drinks include the Cucumber Melon, which includes homemade cucumber vodka; The Duke, which has peach and pineapple flavors; Mango Lemonade and the Nirvana, a twist on a traditional Mango Bay Breeze. READERS’ CHOICE 44 Saturday, March 26, 2016 Times Leader Top of the Slope voted best Times Leader readers Wilkes-Barre shop has catered to skies and snowboarders for more than 40 years By Tom Venesky [email protected] WILKES-BARRE — Mike Miscavage wasn’t aware his business, Top of the Slope, had been named Best Ski Shop in the 2016 Times Leader’s Readers’ Choice Awards. But Miscavage has a good excuse for not being aware of the honor: business has been brisk. “You get doing so many things, you don’t always notice,” Miscavage said. “I’m certainly happy about it.” Busy days are nothing new for the Wilkes-Barre shop, which has been in business since 1972. The shop was opened by Miscavage’s father, Edward, and Mike took it over in the late 1980s. The reason for its longevity, Miscavage said, is attributable to a simple business philosophy. “We’re good guys, we’re local, honest and we don’t price gouge,” he said. Miscavage never planned to take over the family business. He was always around it and it was just a natural progression, he said. Still, he admitted selling skis, snowboards and outdoor gear is a good fit. “I love being outside and away from the computer,” Miscavage said. “When you’re skiing, you’re not thinking about everyday life. It’s good therapy.” Snow drives business at Top of the Slope, which caters to skiers and snowboarders. The business also focuses on the summer outdoor enthusiast and stocks sleeping bags, tents, hiking boots and rock climbing equipment - a facet Miscavage said is becoming increasingly popular. To tap into that interest, Miscavage opened a rock climbing gym next door to Top of the Slope. “I sell a lot of ropes, harnesses and carabiners,” he said. “Climbers buy them and even a lot of roofers.” But the main draw is winter, and that’s why Top of the Slope is packed with skis, snowboards and plenty of winter apparel. Catering to skiers and snowboarders, however, means the business is dependent on winter weather. The last few winters have been good, Miscavage said, even though this year was a bit challenging. “It didn’t snow. The average person doesn’t see snow on the ground, then they think there’s no skiing,” he said. “When that happens, you don’t get the new people to the sport.” Over the years, Miscavage has seen plenty of trends come and go in the world of outdoor recreation. He used to sell kayaks when they were popular and even taught wind sailing on the side. Things have changed with winter sports, as well. It wasn’t that long ago many skiers were switching to snowboarding, but now the reverse is happening. “Snowboarders are starting to ski now,” Miscavage said. “It’s leveling off.” No matter what trend develops or how many changes take place, Top of the Slope is prepared to cater to the ever-evolving interests of its customers. “We’ve been here a long time and it’s about sticking to what you know and what we’ve been doing for customers,” Miscavage said. Reach Tom Venesky at 570-991-6395 or on Twitter @ tltomvenesky Aimee Dilger|Times Leader Mike Miscavage, owner of Top of the Slope, took over the family business in the late 1980s. THANK YOU FOR VOTING FOR US. BEST WINGS Hanover Twp. / Ashley Plains 15 E. Carey St. 782 Hazle St. (By Sneaker King) Forty Fort 980 Wyoming Ave. Dallas 31 Lake St. (By Dallas Family Practice) Nanticoke 302 East Noble St. 570 825-8222 570 970-9991 570 288-3278 570 675-8000 570 258-1111 Aimee Dilger|Times Leader Top of the Slope not only carries skis, but every accessory a skier needs for a day in the snow. READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Saturday, March 26, 2016 45 Casabella Nails & Spa Thank You To All Our Customers For Your Continued Support. • Gel Nails • Manicures • Pedicures • Waxing • Nail Art Walk- Ins Welcome • Gift Certificates Available 1930 Memorial Hwy, Shavertown, PA 18708 570-674-9085 Monday - Saturday 9 am - 7 pm Sunday 11 am - 5 pm 2ND LOCATION OPENING SOON. 305 Bear Creek Commons, Wilkes-Barre (Next to Hoopla, Super Cuts and Buffalo Wild Wings) 46 Saturday, March 26, 2016 READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Mohegan Sun Pocono is a destination resort By Jerry Lynott [email protected] PLAINS TWP. — Whether he knew it or not, Mike Bean struck what sounded like a new advertisement for Mohegan Sun Pocono. People travel from near and far to gamble, dine, shop, attend a concert or show, visit the spa or spend a night or weekend at the hotel. The former Pocono Downs is no longer a one-trick pony and instead offers a myriad of options, including harness racing. “Part of our strategy here at Mohegan Sun Pocono is to give our guests as many reasons to come visit us as we can and the opportunity to have a different experience every visit,” said Bean, Mohegan’s president and general manager. Mohegan Sun Pocono was chosen best casino in the 2016 Times Leader’s Readers’ Choice awards and is a threetime winner in that category. Bean has been on the scene since 2005, the year the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut acquired Pocono Downs in Plains Township. The Mohegans’ Tribal Authority introduced slot machines a year later and embarked on a journey to develop the property. “We are coming up on our 10-year anniversary. Over the course of that 10 years, we have gone from a racino to a destination resort casino,” Bean said. Aimee Dilger | Times Leader Mike Bean, president and general manager of Mohegan Sun Pocono, said the destination resort casino aims to attract people from further away more often for longer stays. “Thus, our name change from Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs to Mohegan Sun Pocono to reflect the fact that we’re no longer slot machines and a race track. But now we are a true destination of our own.” Mohegan added Project Sunrise in 2008 to house the slots now numbering We appreciate your votes and business! 2,300. Table games followed in 2010. In late 2013, the 238-room hotel and 20,000-square-foot conference center opened, along with the 4,000-squarefoot Spa Sapphire. “If you look at what we had, which was basically slots machines and a grandstand with a very modest food New Residential Construction Custome Remodeling offering to today, we have 21 bars and restaurants,” Bean said. It doesn’t stop there. It’s home to the Wise Crackers Comedy Club, a television cooking show on the weekends and live music almost every day of the week, he said. “We have everything from casual dining at Bar Louie to some nice Tuscany menu at Rustic Kitchen to, in my opinion, one of the best steak houses anywhere in Ruth’s Chris,” Bean said. “And we continue to improve. Ruth’s Chris has just gone through a very nice renovation. We continue to upgrade our facility and to provide just an outstanding experience for our guests.” Bean paid credit to the staff and employees, nearly 2,000 of them, for earning the award. “This great team really takes care of our guests every time,” he said. The team and Mohegan’s offerings “differentiate” it from others in the industry, Bean said, and give people a reason to travel from Washington D.C., Baltimore, New York City and three and four hours away. “Our vision is to get more and more people from further and further distances to come more often and stay longer,” Bean said. “So we’ve demonstrated that over the course of 10 years and we plan to continue to do that in the future.” Reach Jerry Lynott at 570-991-6120 or on Twitter @ TLJerryLynott Commcercial Projects Land Development Thank You Times Leader Readers Thank you! rank F arey C Construction, Inc. Where High Quality Is The Standard Direct: 570-655-2374 www.frankcareyconstruction.com READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Saturday, March 26, 2016 47 QFHVW\OHLQQRYDWLRQHQHUJ\FRORU DORQ1RX9HDX 6DORQ1RX9HDX DORQ1RX9HDX 6DORQ1RX9HDX 6DORQ1RX9HDX 6DORQ1RX9HDX HOHJDQFHVW\OHLQQRYDWLRQHQHUJ\FRORU QFHVW\OHLQQRYDWLRQHQHUJ\FRORU Aimee Dilger | Times Leader ([SHULHQFH7KH6DORQ'LIIHUHQFH (ZRHIV\[V\Y The ‘Coal to Diamond’ sculpture greets guests at the casino entrance at Mohegan Sun Pocono. 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On the advice of his parents, the Illinois resident and King’s College grad didn’t end up at a national chain to get fixed up. Instead, he took the car to Forty Fort Lube & Service on Wyoming Avenue. “Not only were the owner and employees extraordinarily compe- tent, they were compassionate to my dilemma, and I headed back to the Windy City with renewed appreciation for home,” Kopp wrote in a letter to the Times Leader in January. “It’s also worth emphasizing Forty Fort Lube & Service, unlike my experience with national brand dealerships echoed by too many others, could have soaked my mechanical ignorance for unnecessary services and an exorbitant bill. “So here’s a big thank you to Forty Fort Lube & Service that has reminded me that there’s no place like home.” Plenty of others in the Wyoming Valley agree with Kopp. The business was voted “Best Auto Repair” in the 2016 Times Leader Readers’ Choice Awards. Kopp’s experience made an impression on owner Joe Kristan, who received plenty of attention in the shop as well as on Facebook. One person even sent him a laminated copy of the letter that ran in the paper. “It’s just great to see that (reaction),” Kristan said. “That’s what it’s about for us. You try to 33 Hill Street • Wilkes-Barre 800-545-5517 FriedmanElectricLDC.com Thank You For Voting Us BEST Lighting Store! 20% OFF any regular priced item Lighting • Fans • Landscape Lighting • Home Decor & Accessories FriedmanElectricLDC.com Stroudsburg • Scranton • Wilkes-Barre Hazleton • Bloomsburg • Selinsgrove With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Expires 6/30/16 Denise and Deanna-Lighting Design Specialists be honest, up front and truthful.” Kristan owns the garage at 1097 Wyoming Ave. in Forty Fort, as well as a second location at 300 Pierce St. in Kingston. The first site has been open for nine years while the second has been open for four. An alum of Bishop O’Reilly High School, Kristan believes that being locally owned and operated gives the shop a personal touch. “A lot of customers like the approach we have — we’re the mom-andpop of the new century,” Kristan said. “We’re not about a number; we’re about building a relationship one-on-one with a customer. Knowing their name when they come in. Explaining to them what they need and they don’t need. “We’ve always been that way since day one. We pride ourselves on that.” The personalized approach carries over to the types of services offered. For people with particularly busy schedules, Forty Fort Lube arranges for local pick-up and drop-off of cars. Kristan called that “a huge part” of his business because of the flexibility it provides customers. Loaners are also available for those who still need to drive to work while repairs are made. The goals, ultimately, are convenience and comfort. “It’s kind of like going to the dentist — nobody wants to have to see us,” Kristan said. “So we want to make sure the experience is as painless as possible.” Reach Derek Levarse at 570-9916396 or on Twitter @TLdlevarse Times Leader READERS’ CHOICE Aimee Dilger | Times Leader Lisa and Joe Kristan’s Forty Fort Lube & Service was voted ‘Best Auto Repair’ in the 2016 Times Leader Readers’ Choice Awards. Saturday, March 26, 2016 49 Aimee Dilger | Times Leader Chris Papadoplos works on a vehicle at Forty Fort Lube & Service on Wyoming Avenue. 50 Saturday, March 26, 2016 READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader PNC Bank rated tops for third straight year By Bill O’Boyle [email protected] Kirby Center for the Performing Arts, the United Way, the Scranton/WilkesBarre RailRiders and Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza. WILKES-BARRE — For the third “We feel if our community grows and straight year, readers have chosen PNC prospers, we will all succeed,” he said. Bank as the name you can bank on. PNC Bank employs nearly 700 people Pete Danchak, PNC’s regional presiat 66 branch offices in the northeast dent, is thrilled for the designation of region, Danchak said, adding many Best Bank in the Times Leader 2016 have been with PNC for 25 or more Readers’ Choice contest. years. “We feel very fortunate to be the “We value our employees’ committrusted bank for financial services in ment and passion to serving our clients the region,” he said. “We have developed many long-term relationships with and customers,” Danchak said. “Many of our employees also serve as volunour customers and community organizations, allowing all to grow together.” teers in many community organizaDanchak said PNC Bank’s philosophy tions.” He said PNC has always encouraged is to strengthen both the company and employees to take an active role in the community. He pointed to PNC’s their communities. “long track record” of supporting the PNC’s northeast region includes arts, citing PNC’s support of the F.M. Thank You! Proud to have served the Wyoming Valley Area for more than 60 years Walter’s Hardware Just Off Coal Street On Walter’s Way 823-1406 DO IT CENTER Luzerne, Lackawanna and Monroe counties and the Lehigh Valley area. Corporate offices are housed in Scranton and Wilkes-Barre, Danchak said. “We strive to be customer-focused.” Danchak said. “Like I said, our commitment is to our clients and the communities we serve.” Danchak said PNC and its employees want to add whatever they can to the quality of life in Northeastern Pennsylvania. He said the region has access to major cities and markets, while offering a lifestyle rich in family values and traditions. “This region is multi-generational,” Danchak said. “And we have a great educational system, outstanding recreational venues and an abundance of natural resources and beauty.” Danchak said Northeastern Pennsylvania “is blessed with a strong road infrastructure, industrial parks and a dedicated workforce with a strong reputation.” He said leveraging the region’s strengths is the key to retaining and recruiting the best workers and their families. While at PNC’s branch on Schechter Drive in Wilkes-Barre Township, Danchak walked around the building, saying hello to customers and employees. “Our customers have been loyal to PNC for years,” he said. “We try to show our appreciation to them every day.” Reach Bill O’Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @ TLBillOBoyle. Thank You For Voting Us BBest Carpet Store 3 Years In A Row! THANK YOU GIFT CARD $50 50TH ANNIVERSARY THANK YOU Gift Card Since 1965 Exp 4/10/16 Use Towards Any Purchase of $100 or More 1345 Hwy 315 • Wilkes-Barre • 570-825-3435 75 Morgan Hwy • Scranton • 570-346-8793 3406 Route 611 • Bartonsville • 570-629-4082 www.GiantFloor.com READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader PNC Bank branch manager Andrew Gavlick in his office on Schecter Drive. Aimee Dilger | Times Leader Saturday, March 26, 2016 51 Aimee Dilger | Times Leader PNC Regional President Pete Danchak poses for a photo in the PNC Bank on Schecter Drive in WilkesBarre Township. THANK YOU to our customers and everyone who voted, we appreciate your business and your support! THANK YOU • THANK YOU THANK YOU • THANK YOU THANK YOU • THANK YOU • THANK YOU • THANK YOU • THANK YOU THANK YOU • THANK YOU • THANK YOU • THANK YOU • THANK YOU To Readers of the Times Leader, and all Our Valued Guests, Thank You, ~ Gus Genetti GENETTI 77 East Market Street, Wilkes-Barre • For Reservations: 570-823-6152 MAXWELL’S HOUSE PET RESORT Thank You! We enjoy caring for your pets! Boarding • Grooming • Daycare 10 Tunnel St. Pittston PA 570-655-1406 Facebook.com/MaxwellsHouseResort 52 Saturday, March 26, 2016 READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Saturday, March 26, 2016 53 Times Leader Readers’ Choice 2016 platinum winners BEST HEARING AID CENTER Family Hearing Center BEST INSURANCE AGENT Christie Bonnice BEST ITALIAN FOOD Cafe Italia BEST CHEF Eugene Philbin BEST SUSHI Mirakuya BEST COMMUNITY COLLEGE Luzerne County Community College BEST LASIK SURGERY Bucci Laser Vision BEST SQUARE PIZZA Pizza Perfect BEST IMPORT CAR DEALER Wyoming Valley Motors BEST TIRE STORE Jack Williams Tire BEST DENTIST Back Mountain Dental BEST FRESH FOOD MARKET Wegmans BEST WAREHOUSE OPERATION Valley Distributing & Storage BEST APPLIANCE STORE Voitek TV & Appoliance BEST POOL COMPANY Bel Air Pools & Excavating BEST BANK PNC Bank BEST EYE CARE CENTER Eye Care Specialists BEST LOCKSMITH Kingston Locksmith BEST STEAK DINNER Ruth’s Chris Steak House BEST REHABILITATION CENTER Allied Services John Heinz Institute of Rehabilitation BEST JEWELRY STORE Rainbow Jeweler BEST WINDOW TREATMENT STORE Sew Fine Draperies & Interiors BEST CARPET STORE Giant Floor BEST HOME HEALTH CARE Bayada Home Health Care BEST SEAFOOD JJ Banko’s Seafood BEST SUB SHOP Primo Hoagies BEST HAPPY HOUR Arena Bar & Grill BEST HOTEL Woodlands Inn and Resort BEST CASINO Mohegan Sun Pocono BEST LOCAL COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY King’s College BEST HEAVY EQUIPMENTCO. Medico Industries Inc. BEST COMPUTER REPAIR The Computer Shop BEST MATTRESS STORE Sleepy’s BEST HOSPITAL Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center These businesses have been voted BEST in their category for three consecutive years by Times Leader readers. BEST DAY SPA Woodhouse Day Spa BEST ARCHITECT Borton-Lawson BEST FITNESS FACILITY Planet Fitness BEST FURNITURE STORE Ashley Furniture Home Store BEST PLACE FOR FAMILY Knoebel’s Amusement Park BEST THEATRE VENUE Cinemark BEST BUFFET Timber’s Buffet BEST CONVENIENCE STORE Turkey Hill BEST FIREARMS DEALER Advance Arms BEST AMBULANCE SERVICE Trans-Med Ambulance Services BEST CABLE CO. Comcast BEST SHOE STORE Gino’s Shoe Store BEST CHIROPRACTOR Cohen and Haydu Chiropractic Clinic BEST HEALTH INSURANCE PROVIDER Highmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield BEST NIGHT CLUB Woodlands Inn and Resort BEST PHONE COMPANY Verizon BEST COFFEE SHOP Dunkin’ Donu Thank You for your Support and Vote! We are honored and enjoy being your choice Insurance Agent! Leo J. Sperrazza Agency For all your insurance needs 21 Broad Street, Pittston • (570)603-0664 READERS’ CHOICE 54 Saturday, March 26, 2016 Times Leader Pete G. Wilcox|Times Leader Co-owner of Gerrity’s Supermarket Joe Fasula inside Gerrity’s Supermarket in Luzerne. Thank You For Your Votes and Your Continued Support. Best Chiropractor Nikki, Beth, Tana, Dr.Morris, Dr.Rusczyk, Dr.Barnard, Dr.Miller, Lindsey, Summer, Wendy and Brandi Most Insurances Accepted Walk- Ins Welcome on Saturdays Chiropractic & Rehab Associates of Dallas, PC Tunkhannock Chiropractic Spine & Sports Center, LLC Phone 570-696-4346 1230 Memorial Hwy., Ste. 102 | Shavertown, PA 18708 Phone 570-836-0558 608 Hunter Hwy., Ste. 112 | Tunkhannock, PA 18657 www.BackMountainBacks.com READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Saturday, March 26, 2016 55 Times Leader 2016 Readers’ Choice gold winners These businesses have been voted BEST in their categories this year by Times Leader readers BEST PHOTOGRAPHER Photography by Jay BEST SERVER Annette Kindler BEST DAY SPA Woodhouse Day Spa BEST ARCHITECT Borton-Lawson BEST CHILD CARE Small Wonders Day Care School BEST CATERER Backdoor Take-Out & Catering BEST TANNING SALON Sun Tan City BEST MATERNITY WARD Wilkes-Barre General Hospital BEST FITNESS FACILITY Planet Fitness BEST TAKEOUT CK’s Cantina & Grill BEST ATTORNEY Mattioli & Munley Law BEST FURNITURE STORE Ashley Furniture Home Store BEST PLACE FOR FAMILY FUN Knoebel’s Amusement Resort BEST STEAK DINNER Ruth’s Chris Steak House BEST SPORTS BAR Lucky’s Sporthouse BEST CARPET STORE Giant Floor BEST RESTAURANT ATMOSPHERE Grico’s Restaurant BEST TOWING SERVICE Falzone Towing Service BEST FITNESS INSTRUCTOR Jessica Sands BEST BUFFET Timbers Buffet BEST RESTAURANT MENU Cooper’s Seafood House BEST SEAFOOD JJ Banko’s Seafood BEST REALTOR David Wychock BEST BEER DISTRIBUTOR Wyoming Valley Beverage BEST HAPPY HOUR Arena Bar & Grill BEST CONVENIENCE STORE Turkey Hill BEST BUTCHER Fetch’s Kielbasi Shop/ Meat Market BEST CLOTHING STORE Kohl’s BEST ENERGY CO. UGI BEST TRUCK DEALER Coccia Ford Lincoln BEST GOLF COURSE Blue Ridge Trail Golf Club BEST GARDEN CENTER Edward’s Garden Center BEST CHEF Eugene Philbin BEST GROCERY STORE Gerrity’s Supermarket BEST HEARING AID CENTER Family Hearing Center BEST BARTENDER Mark Mason ND ACCOUNTING & CONSULTING, PC BEST CASINO Mohegan Sun Pocono BEST BAZAAR St. Nick’s Bazaar BEST HEAVY EQUIPMENT CO. Medico Industries Inc. BEST MARTINI 279 Bar & Grill ACCOUNTING & TAX PREPARATION Thank You To All Of Our Clients Who Voted Us Best Accounting Firm BEST MATTRESS STORE Sleepy’s BEST PLACE FOR A FIRST DATE Fire & Ice on Toby Creek BEST ASIAN CUISINE Thai Thai BEST BEER SELECTION Sabatini’s Pizza BEST THEATRE VENUE Cinemark See GOLD | 56 • Business Management • Bookkeeping • Accounting and Auditing Services • Payroll • Tax Preparation Services • Small Business Consulting - Individuals, Corporations, Partnerships, Non-Profits, Trusts & Estates Nicholas M. Daddio Michael A. Daddio, CPA 5929 Main Road, P.O. Box 105 Sweet Valley, PA 18656 214 Pine Street Berwick, PA 18603 PH. 570-477-3618 F. 570- 477-2485 PH. 570-752-7860 READERS’ CHOICE 56 Saturday, March 26, 2016 Gold From page 55 BEST AUTO REPAIR Forty Fort Lube BEST LASIK SURGERY Buccu Laser Vision BEST AUTO SALESPERSON Fred Benson BEST TRUCKING FIRM Kane is Able BEST NURSING/RETIREMENT HOME Wesley Village BEST TIRE STORE Jack Williams Tire BEST LAUNDROMAT Liberty Cleaners Times Leader BEST WAREHOUSE OPERATION Valley Distributing & Storage BEST HOME HEALTH CARE Bayada Home Health Care BEST COMPUTER REPAIR The Computer Shop BEST BANK PNC Bank BEST SUB SHOP Primo Hoagies BEST EMPLOYER OVER 50 EMPLOYEES Cross Valley FCU BEST AD AGENCY MLB Advertising BEST FLORIST Mattern Flower Shop BEST HAIR SALON Sakari Salon and Spa BEST REHABILITATION CENTER Allied Services John Heinz Institute of Rehabilitation BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY Century 21 Smith Hourigan Real Estate BEST HOSPITAL Geisinger Medical Center BEST HOTEL Woodlands Inn and Resort BEST FIREARMS DEALER Advanced Arms BEST ROUND PIZZA Angelo’s Pizza BEST RESTAURANT FOR BREAKFAST Michael’s Family Restaurant BEST HARDWARE STORE Dallas Centre Hardware BEST BAKERY Bakery Delite BEST COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY King’s College BEST AMBULANCE SERVICE Trans-Med Ambulance Services BEST RADIO STATION 98.5 KRZ BEST SELF STORAGE U Haul BEST CREDIT UNION Cross Valley Federal Credit Union BEST PEDIATRICIAN Dr. Kyle THANK YOU To All Our Loyal Customers Who Made This Possible. Voted Best Local Hardware Store Without you, We Wouldn’t Be The Best! Dallas Centre Hardware 42-44 Main Street, Dallas 570-675-4104 Mon.-Sat. 8-5 & Sun. 10-3 READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Saturday, March 26, 2016 57 BEST CABLE CO. Comcast BEST APPLIANCE STORE Voitek TV & Appliance BEST CHIROPRACTOR Cohen & Haydu Chiropractic BEST HEATING OIL CO. Button Oil Co. Inc. BEST BURGER Fire Guys Burger and Fries BEST WINGS Pizza Perfect BEST HEALTH INSURANCE PROVIDER Highmark Blue Cross/ Blue Shield BEST COMMUNITY COLLEGE Luzerne County Community College BEST USED AUTO DEALER Sans Souci Motors BEST EYE CARE CENTER Eye Care Specialists BEST PHARMACY Cook’s Pharmacy BEST ENTERTAINMENT VENUE Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza BEST INSURANCE AGENT Cristie Bonnice BEST FUNERAL HOME Corcoran Funeral Home BEST ACCOUNTING FIRM Carver Associates BEST KITCHEN STORE Top Value Kitchens BEST SUSHI Mirakuya BEST DRY CLEANER Liberty Cleaners BEST HOME BUILDER Summit Pointe Builders BEST GRANITE STORE Penn Granite and Stone BEST SQUARE PIZZA Pizza Perfect BEST CHEESESTEAK Philadelphia Subs BEST ITALIAN FOOD Cafe Italia BEST REMODELER PAC Construction BEST DENTIST Back Mountain Dental BEST JEWELRY STORE Rainbow Jeweler BEST EMPLOYER UNDER 50 EMPLOYEES Dr. Loren Grossman BEST MICROBREWERY Susquehanna Brewing Company BEST FAMILY DOCTOR Dr. Patrick Kilduff BEST SHOE STORE Gino’s Shoe Store BEST DELI J&J Deli grateful to you 2013 2014 2015 for making us a winner in Child Care! 272 West Eighth Street, West Wyoming, PA 18644 (570) 693-3556 www.cookiecornerchildcare.com Limited Openings in Fall Nursery School / Call for info *Licensed by Dept. of Education & Dept. of Child Welfare* See GOLD | 58 THANK YOU TO ALL WHO VOTED! Nursery School and Daycare ...is BEST BAR R Bar & Grill KINGSTON 165 West Union Street, Kingston 570-288-2881 www.bitethebest.com READERS’ CHOICE 58 Saturday, March 26, 2016 Times Leader Gold BEST LOCKSMITH Kingston Locksmith BEST LIGHTING STORE Friedman Electric BEST MUSIC VENUE F.M. Kirby Center for Performing Arts From page 57 BEST HARDSCAPE STORE Stonewords Plus BEST ELECTRICIAN Dave Monk Electric BEST PLACE FOR OUTDOOR DINING River Grill BEST WINDOW TREATMENT STORE Sew Fine Draperies & Interiors BEST GIFT SHOP Bee Hive Gift Shop BEST PRIVATE GOLF COURSE Huntsville Golf Course BEST PUBLIC GOLF COURSE Blue Ridge Trail Golf Club BEST PAINTING CO. Sherwin Williams BEST BRIDAL SHOP Gerri Bridal Shop BEST DOMESTIC CAR DEALER Coccia Ford Lincoln BEST NIGHT CLUB The Woodlands Inn & Resort BEST CHILDREN’S CLOTHING STORE Humphrey’s Apparel & Toys BEST IMPORT CAR DEALER Wyoming Valley Motors BEST PHONE CO. Verizon BEST DOG GROOMER Pawsitively Perfect Pet Salon BEST NEW CAR DEALER Ken Pollock BEST INTERNET PROVIDER Comcast BEST SIGN PRINTING Wet Paint Printing + Design BEST LANDSCAPER Steve Riley BEST COFFEE SHOP Dunkin’ Donuts BEST T-SHIRT PRINTING Wet Paint Printing + Design BEST LIBRARY Pittston Library BEST RECORDING STUDIO JL Studios BEST TAX PREPARER H&R Block BEST PSYCHOLOGIST Dr. Francis Angelella, Psy.D BEST ROOFING COMPANY Northeast Window BEST POOL COMPANY Bel Air Pools & Excavating BEST TAILOR Siani’s Cleaners BEST DANCE STUDIO Back Mountain Dance Studio BEST WINDOW COMPANY Northeast Window BEST DOG KENNEL K-9 Korner BEST SKI SHOP Top of the Slope BEST OVERHEAD DOOR CO. Lynn Overhead Door BEST TEX-MEX RESTAURANT CK’s Cantina & Grill BEST VAPE SHOP Xhale Vapor Lounge BEST FRESH FOOD MARKET Wegmans THANK YOU For Your Support • Best Restaurant Atmosphere • Best Place For Outdoor Dining • Best Chef, Jeff Huntzinger Route 309, Dallas • 570-675-7100 thebeaumontinn.com BEST BAR FOOD Tipsy Turtle Pub BEST CONSIGNMENT SHOP Cliche Consignment BEST NAIL SALON Divas Nail Salon BEST CLOTHING BOUTIQUE Women’s Boutique & Consignments BEST WEDDING VENUE Woodlands Inn & Resort BEST LAW FIRM Comitz Law Firm BEST HVAC BUSINESS Bellio Plumbing & Heating BEST BARBEQUE B3Q Barbeque by Barry BEST ANTIQUE SHOP Today’s Treasures Antiques BEST CHOCOLATE Gertrude Hawk Chocolates READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Saturday, March 26, 2016 59 Thank You! To all of our loyal patrons that took the time out of their busy schedules to vote for us as Best Auto Repair Shop, we are truly humbled. The growth we have experienced over the years is because of customers like you who faithfully support our business. “Service You Can Trust” To all of our customers that have genuinely come to recognize that everyday our main goal is to understand your needs personally, and to meet them with the very best automotive service & experience that you deserve. We understand that your time is valuable. Whether you are a parent that wants to make sure your vehicle is maintained and safe for your family, or a Senior whose only interest is an occasional trip to the grocery store, hairdresser, church service or doctor’s appointment. A salesperson that spends countless hours traveling, or the auto enthusiast that wants the absolute best performing vehicle they can have. We appreciate your trust and we will do our very best to continue to give you the kind of automotive service you deserve. To all of our Fleet Accounts we understand that your main objective is to have safe and reliable vehicles so that your employees can do their day to day tasks efficiently as time is of value. We strive to accommodate and provide you with fast, dependable service. We truly appreciate and are grateful for the trust you have placed in us. To all of our new patrons that have been with us for a short time. We understand just how intimidating it can be to try a new garage for automotive service. We appreciate and thank you for giving us the opportunity. Your continued patronage and suggestions are a vital part of our growth. Thank you to Forty Fort and Kingston Boroughs for allowing us to be part of two great communities that welcomed us with open arms. We are most grateful and thankful to all of our employees. Their dedication, diligence and enthusiasm at working extremely hard to achieve the very best day in and day out. Without their commitment, we would not have achieved this fortunate and terrific observance of service in our industry. 1097 Wyoming Avenue Forty Fort Location Only Forty Fort • (570) 718-1501 Full Service Gas Hours: Kingston • (570) 283-1504 Hours: Mon. - Fri. 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM Saturday 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM Mon. - Fri. 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Saturday 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM Sunday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Saturday 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM www.fortyfortlube.com 300 Pierce Street READERS’ CHOICE 60 Saturday, March 26, 2016 Times Leader Times Leader 2016 Readers’ Choice silver winners These businesses have been voted second BEST in their categories this year by Times Leader readers. BEST PHOTOGRAPHER Jessica Standish Photography BEST SERVER Marc Dellario BEST DAY SPA The Sapphire Salon & Destination Spa BEST ARCHITECT Paul Lewis BEST CHILD CARE Cookie Corner Child Care Center BEST CATERER Peculiar Culinary Company BEST TANNING SALON Tanfastic Tan Centers BEST MATERNITY WARD Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center BEST FITNESS FACILITY S.W.E.A.T. Fitness Studio BEST TAKEOUT Overbrook Pub & Grill BEST ATTORNEY Comitz Law Firm BEST FURNITURE STORE Raymour & Flanigan Furniture Store BEST PLACE FOR FAMILY FUN Sky Zone Trampoline Park BEST STEAK DINNER Longhorn Steakhouse BEST SPORTS BAR Buffalo Wild Wings BEST CARPET STORE KW Carpets & More BEST FITNESS INSTRUCTOR Kyle McGlynn BEST SEAFOOD Cooper’s Seafood House BEST HAPPY HOUR River Grille BEST CLOTHING STORE Boscov’s BEST GOLF COURSE Fox Hill Country Club BEST GROCERY STORE Wegmans BEST BARTENDER Lauren Maga BEST CASINO Mount Airy Casino Resort BEST BAZAAR Sacred Heart of Jesus Church Bazaar BEST HEAVY EQUIPMENT CO. Dominic’s Equipment Co. BEST MARTINI Bar Louie BEST MATTRESS STORE Raymour & Flanigan Furniture Store BEST PLACE FOR A FIRST DATE Grico’s Restaurant BEST ASIAN CUISINE Mirakuya Japanese Restaurant BEST BEER SELECTION Arena Bar & Gtill BEST THEATRE VENUE R/C Wilkes-Barre Movies 14 BEST RESTAURANT ATMOSPHERE The Beaumont Inn BEST NURSING/RETIREMENT HOME Riverstreet Manor BEST BUFFET Royal House Buffet BEST TIRE STORE Kost Tire & Auto Service BEST REALTOR Jessica Skoloda Frohman BEST LAUNDROMAT Larksville Laundromat BEST CONVENIENCE STORE Sheetz BEST WAREHOUSE OPERATION Kane Warehousing Inc. BEST ENERGY CO. PPL BEST BANK Wells Fargo BEST GARDEN CENTER Dundee Gardens BEST ADVERTISING AGENCY Mojo Marketing BEST HEARING AID CENTER The Hearing Center BEST REHABILITATION CENTER Riverstreet Manor BEST TOWING SERVICE Eli’s Towing & Recovery BEST RADIO STATION WRKC BEST RESTAURANT MENU Fire & Ice on Toby Creek BEST SELF STORAGE Close 2U Storage BEST BEER DISTRIBUTOR Mountain Beverage BEST CREDIT UNION UFCW FCU BEST BUTCHER Morgan’s Butcher Shop BEST PEDIATRICIAN Dr. Michael Harris BEST TRUCK DEALER Valley Chevrolet BEST HOME HEALTH CARE Erwine Home Health & Hospice BEST CHEF Jeff Huntzinger BEST SUB SHOP J&J Deli BEST AUTO REPAIR Graziano Collision BEST FLORIST Robin Hill Florist BEST LASIK SURGERY Eye Care Specialists BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY Lewith and Freeman Real Estate BEST AUTO SALESPERSON Tyler Karalunas BEST HOTEL Genetti Best Western BEST TRUCKING FIRM CDS Transportation BEST ROUND PIZZA Sabatini’s Pizza READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader Saturday, March 26, 2016 61 BEST HARDWARE STORE Walter’s Hardware Store BEST APPLIANCE STORE Rebennack’s Appliance BEST COMMUNITY COLLEGE Lackawanna College BEST PUBLIC GOLF COURSE Wilkes-Barre Municipal Golf Course BEST COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY Wilkes University BEST WINGS Pizza Bella BEST ENTERTAINMENT VENUE Mohegan Sun Pocono BEST DOMESTIC CAR DEALER Bonner Chevrolet BEST COMPUTER REPAIR Custom Computers BEST EYE CARE CENTER Northeastern Eye Institute BEST KITCHEN STORE Bed Bath & Beyond BEST IMPORT CAR DEALER MotorWorld BEST EMPLOYER OVER 50 EMPLOYEES Friedman Electric BEST FUNERAL HOME Wroblewski Funeral Home BEST GRANITE STORE Home Depot BEST NEW CAR DEALER MotorWorld BEST HAIR SALON Salon Nouveau BEST DRY CLEANER Master Garment BEST REMODELER Northeast Window BEST LANDSCAPER Edward’s Garden Center BEST HOSPITAL Wilkes-Barre General Hospital BEST CHEESESTEAK Bobbie O’s BEST MICROBREWERY Breaker Brewing Company BEST FRESH FOOD MARKET Gerrity’s Supermarket BEST FIREARMS DEALER Piestrak’s Gun Shop BEST JEWELRY STORE Van Scoy Diamond Mine BEST BAR 479 Bar & Grill Hops & Barley’s BEST TAX PREPARER Tamra Accounting & Financial Services BEST RESTAURANT FOR BREAKFAST Perkins Restaurant & Bakery BEST SHOE STORE Humphreys’ Bootery and Bags BEST BAKERY Sanitary Bakery BEST CHIROPRACTOR Back Mountain Backs BEST AMBULANCE SERVICE Back Mountain EMS BEST HEALTH INSURANCE PROVIDER Geisinger Health Plan BEST CABLE CO. Service Electric BEST PHARMACY CVS BEST BURGER Red Robin BEST ACCOUNTING FIRM N&D Snyder & Clemente BEST USED AUTO DEALER Wyoming Valley Motors BEST INSURANCE AGENT Leo Sperazza BEST SUSHI Shogun Japanese Restaurant BEST SQUARE PIZZA Revello’s BEST DENTIST Loren J. Grossman, DMD BEST FAMILY DOCTOR Dr. Luigi Spagnolini, MD BEST PRIVATE GOLF COURSE Fox Hill Country Club See SILVER | 62 BEST HOME BUILDER Frank Carey Construction BEST ITALIAN FOOD Leggios Italian Ristorante BEST EMPLOYER UNDER 50 EMPLOYEES Carpenter Dental BEST DELI Goldstein’s Deli BEST HEATING OIL CO. Capozucca Brothers Oil Co. VOTED BEST ELECTRICIAN READERS’ CHOICE 62 Saturday, March 26, 2016 Silver From page 61 BEST PAINTING CO. Spencer’s Painting & General Construction BEST POOL COMPANY Skovish Brothers Pools & Spas BEST NIGHT CLUB Breakers BEST WINDOW COMPANY Pella Windows & Doors BEST PHONE CO. AT&T BEST OVERHEAD DOOR CO. All Door Sales Inc. BEST INTERNET PROVIDER Verizon BEST LOCKSMITH Jeff’s Lock & Key BEST COFFEE SHOP Starbucks BEST HARDSCAPE STORE Sans Souci Stone & Brick Yard BEST LIBRARY Back Mountain Memorial Library BEST WINDOW TREATMENT STORE Budget Blinds of Wyoming Valley BEST PSYCHOLOGIST Thomas Tomkiewicz, LCSW BEST TAILOR Alterations by Liza Times Leader BEST DOG KENNEL Maxwell’s House BEST SIGN PRINTING Fast Signs BEST TEX-MEX RESTAURANT La Tolteca BEST T-SHIRT PRINTING Axelrad BEST LIGHTING STORE Lowe’s BEST RECORDING STUDIO Borwick’s Performance Hi-Fidelity BEST ELECTRICIAN Robert J. Stella Electric BEST ROOFING COMPANY Smith Miller Roofing BEST GIFT SHOP Hallmark BEST DANCE STUDIO Joan Harris Centre BEST BRIDAL SHOP David’s Bridal BEST SKI SHOP The Ski Corner BEST CHILDREN’S CLOTHING STORE Carters BEST VAPE SHOP Fog Vapes BEST DOG GROOMER Maxwell’s House BEST MUSIC VENUE River Street Jazz Cafe READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader BEST PLACE FOR OUTDOOR DINING The Beaumont Inn BEST LAW FIRM Hourigan Kluger & Quinn BEST BAR FOOD Hops & Barley’s BEST HVAC BUSINESS Monk Heating & Air Conditioning BEST CONSIGNMENT SHOP My Sister’s Closet BEST NAIL SALON Casabella Nail & Spa BEST CLOTHING BOUTIQUE Showroom 56 Saturday, March 26, 2016 63 BEST BARBEQUE Uncle Bucks BBQ BEST ANTIQUE SHOP Farmhouse BEST CHOCOLATE Michael Mootz Candies BEST WEDDING VENUE Appletree Terrace King’s College President Rev. John Ryan talks with the Times Leader editorial board in Wilkes-Barre on Tuesday. Sean McKeag | Times Leader THANK YOU TO ALL OUR WONDERFUL PATRONS & FRIENDS Today’s Treasures Antiques Voted Best Local Antique Shop • Tra ins • T oys • Furniture • Military ws o stume Jewelry • Stained Glass Wind g: • Decorative Accessories n i r u Select Contemporary Lines Feat als • Moo rcroft Pottery • Steiff Anim • Co CELEBRATING OUR 45TH YEAR All Major Credit Cards Accepted Wed to Sun 12 noon - 5pm 10 East Main Street • Plymouth, PA 18651 570.779.2929 www.todaystreasures.com 64 Saturday, March 26, 2016 READERS’ CHOICE Times Leader