People's Choice 2017

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

| A PRODUCT OF THE FRESNO BEE’S CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS DEPARTMENT

fresnobee.com

2 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Thank You Fresno!

2017

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

Thanks to your loyalty and continued support, we’re proud to celebrate 30 years of fun and excitement with you. We love our locals, and we’re honored to help our community become a better place to live and play — for generations to come.

Join us in celebrating 30 great years — here’s to many more!

8184 Table Mountain Road, Friant, CA 93626 I 559.822.7777 I tmcasino.com Must be 18 years to game. Management reserves all rights.

3

4 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

The Contest The Fresno Bee’s People’s Choice Awards have become a part of Fresno’s culture. Every spring, the best of the best is celebrated. Our annual winners list, in many cases, is no surprise.

There are some businesses that are consistently listed here, places that are such Valley favorites, that they couldn’t help but be named winners.

In other cases, longestablished industry greats are joined by newcomers, businesses that are new to the Valley, but have quickly earned a place of honor. Join us as we celebrate both. You voted for your favorite places to shop, to play and to get things done and the winners all have one thing in common. They are the people and places that offer top-quality products and customer service, the stuff that keeps us coming back for more.

ooo This special section was written and produced by the Custom Publications Department of The Fresno Bee. Custom Publications Editor Carey M. Norton Assistant Editor Monica Stevens Community Publications Production Coordinator Anna Ramseier Staff Writers Katie Fries, Farin Montañez, Janessa Tyler and Dani Villalobos Additional Writing Emily Cameron, Carole Grosch and Doug Hoagland Photography Wayne Hutchison, Mark Wojdylak, Gary Kazanjian, Silvia Flores Cover design and graphics Erik Davison

Art Gallery Central Coast Destination Golf Course Local Casino Museum Nightclub Performing Arts Venue/ Theater Sports Bar Water Park Winery

6 6 6 8 10 10 12 13 14 14

Bagels or Bread Bakery Barbeque Restaurant Breakfast Place Buffet Caterer Chinese Restaurant Coffee House Cupcake Shop Delicatessen Desserts Family Restaurant Fine Dining Hamburgers Hot Dogs Ice Cream Indian Restaurant Italian Restaurant Japanese Restaurant Mediterranean Restaurant Mexican Restaurant Microbrewery Patio/Outdoor Dining Pizza Sandwich Shop Seafood Steakhouse Sunday Brunch Sushi Tea House Thai Restaurant Wedding Cake

16 16 17 17 18 18 20 20 20 21 22 25 25 26 28 28 29 29 30 31 32 32 33 33 33 33 35 35 35 35 36 36

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Athletic Club Diet Headquarters Drug Store Eye Care Group Hospital Women’s Fitness Center Yoga Studio

Company to Work For Local Radio Personality/Team Sportscaster Television Anchor Weathercaster

Escape Rooms Chef Paul’s Cafe Limón Jets Track and Field Club Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System Sierra Shoe Repair Rosetti Fine Foods/ Biscotti House Cresco Restaurant Equipment & Supply Co.

37 37 38 38 38 39 39

42 42 42 43 44

11 24 32 40 44 53 63 68

Air Conditioning / Heating Repair Alterations Animal Boarding Auto Service Center Bank Car Wash Cellular Provider Closet and Garage Storage Organizers Cosmetic Medical Spa Credit Union Day Spa Dry Cleaners Employment Agency Hair Salon Home Window Replacement Home Theater Technology Company House Cleaning Service Licensed Day Care Center Mortgage Company New Home Builder Photo Processing Pool Builder Real Estate Company Retirement Community Solar Company Tanning Salon Trade/Technical School Travel Agency Tree Service Tutorial Center Veterinarian/Animal Clinic Wedding Photographer

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

46 46 47 49 49 50 50 50 51 51 52 53 53 54 54 55 55 55 56 57 57 57 57 57 58 58 59 59 59 59 59 60

Appliance Store Bicycle Shop Boutique Children’s Clothing Consignment Store Department Store Domestic Auto Dealer Electronics Store Flooring Store Flower Shop Furniture Store Grocery Store Home Improvement Store Import Auto Dealer Jewelry Store Local Hardware Store Luxury Auto Dealer Mattress Store Meat Market Men’s Clothing Motorcycle/ATV Dealer Musical Merchandise Party Supply Store Pet Store Photo Supply Store Plant and Garden Store RV Dealer Shopping Center Spa Dealer Specialty Gift Store Sporting Goods Store Tire Dealer Used Car Dealer Watercraft Dealer Wedding and Formal Attire Wine Selection Women’s Clothing

61 61 61 61 62 62 62 62 62 63 63 63 64 64 65 65 66 66 66 66 67 67 67 67 67 68 68 68 69 69 69 69 70 70 70 70 70

5

6 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Arts and Entertainment

Art Gallery

1 Arte Américas 1630 Van Ness Ave. (559) 266-2623 arteamericas.org It only seems appropriate that the public has voted Arte Américas as the People’s Choice for favorite Art Gallery. The local Latino cultural center is now celebrating its 30th year and is a not only a place for Latino art, but a flourishing hub for the entire artistic community.

It has diverse exhibits rotating every four months, a popular summer concert series, “Nights in the Plaza,” a well-attended Dia de los Muertos gala and various workshops highlighting visual, performing and literary arts.

Executive director and chief curator Frank Delgado says when it comes to programming, the center features both local and outside artists, hoping to elevate creative people’s work in the area by celebrating them alongside some heavy hitters who’ve come to Fresno. In fact, from December through February, Arte Américas spotlighted high school students up and down the Central Valley to nurture and give support to artists the space hopes to feature again down the road.

Its third annual women’s exhibition is on now and will run through May. Entitled “Three Degrees of Separation,” the concept includes 12 female artists who were personally invited by last year’s invitees — building on a network of talented women who identify with different ages, styles, mediums and cultures.

“The gender gap in art galleries is disgusting. It says 90/10, but it’s closer to 93/7 or 93/6,” Delgado

People’s Choice

says. “We’re super women-powered and we take an active role in not participating in that gender gap. We always try to keep it closer to that 50/50 mark. We want to create an example, and provide a platform via the arts to open up the conversation.”

Arte Américas offers free admission to the public Thursday through Saturday, and the fee is $2 per person for school visits.

“We try to be very inclusive and make it available to everyone, so families with limited funds are welcomed and are excited to participate in what we’re doing,” Delgado explains. “We had some of the biggest names in art last year. These are people who are only showing in LA, NYC or Paris but can come to downtown Fresno and see it for free. That’s how people connect.”

2. M Street Arts Complex 1419 M. St. (559) 438-8200 mstreetarts.com

3. Jewel FM Art Gallery 1415 Fulton St. (559) 497-5118 kjwl.com/#!the-gallery

Central Coast Destination

1 Pismo Beach classiccalifornia.com As if we didn’t have enough reasons to be obsessed with Pismo Beach, the classic California beach town’s allure is in top form as we transition from the cold winter months to a more palatable spring.

More than 26 miles of uninterrupted, pristine ocean views? Check. Various outdoor activities, rich wildlife and nature preserves? Got it. Fresh farmland produce, sea-inspired cuisine and a slew of tasting rooms highlighting the splendors from surrounding winemaking regions? You bet.

The semi-off season offers visitors special, discounted rates for extended stays with many area hoteliers, as well as an opportunity to experience some of the Central Coast’s migrating wildlife.

Naturists just missed the cluster of Monarch butterflies that seek refuge in Pismo State Beach’s grove of eucalyptus trees from October through February, but there are still ways to get an up-close

ART GALLERY: The Ward family enjoy art on display at Arte Americas. view of dolphins, whales, sea otters and numerous bird species traveling through and near the Pacific Ocean waters. Hiking, kayaking, horseback riding and biking are just a few methods adventurers choose to explore Pismo’s natural life — and that includes their furry friends.

Pismo Beach has become regarded as one of America’s most dog-friendly towns. So much so, in fact, there’s an official dog-friendly website created specifically for canine-loving travelers to assist with finding dog-friendly lodging, restaurants, activities and more.

Celebrating local arts and culture is also a priority of the popular beach town.

One of its latest events: CowParade SLO. The event is part of a series of worldwide exhibitions featuring decorated, life-size cow statues, with four placed throughout Pismo Beach. The PisMoo Beach CowParade Photo contest invites guests to participate in scouting out the statues — located at Pismo Pier, Main Street parking, Dinosaur Caves Park and Pismo Beach Premium Outlets — and taking creative pictures with the art pieces to win a one-night stay in Pismo Beach. The contest ends May 1.

2. Monterey monterey.com, seemonterey.com

3. Morro Bay morrobay.org

Golf Course

1 Copper River Country Club 2140 E. Clubhouse Drive (559) 434-5200 copperrivercountryclub.com

An aesthetic and feel of “old California” was William R. Tatham Sr.’s goal when he envisioned Copper River Country Club — its picturesque surroundings of rolling hills, vineyards and view of the Sierra Nevada Mountains creating a nice backdrop to the facility’s Spanish courtyard fountains, arched walkways and top-of-the-line amenities.

But for many, it’s the 18-hole championship course that has area golfers flocking to its grounds.

Since opening for play in 1995, Copper River Country Club’s course has established itself as a challenging and fun course that caters to every kind of golfer, offering players privacy and pleasing visuals with the natural surroundings.

“As a private country club we are quite unique in that we do not have any holes running back and forth or next to one another,” says Ryan Lancaster, head golf professional and golf operations manager. “Each hole is different from the others, and the only view you are seeing is of the challenge directly in front of you.”

Copper River Country Club has recently made an effort to take the region’s environmental concerns to heart, and installed major irrigation and sprinkler upgrades to its operation that make the facility more water efficient in maintaining its grounds, Lancaster explains.

The club’s amenities also extend past its renowned course, including a tennis facility, state-of-the-art fitness center, swimming pool and spa, casual and fine dining and even a kids center to ensure that all members of the family are taken care of.

Its elegant function areas make Copper River Country Club a go-to venue for the greater community, as well. Whether it’s a wedding reception, business dinner,

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

2

7 1 0

Hwy 41 North To Coarsegold | chukchansigold.com | 866.794.6946

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

7

8 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Arts and Entertainment

People’s Choice 3. Fig Garden Golf Club 7700 N. Van Ness Blvd.

(559) 439-2928 figgardengolf.com

Local Casino

1 Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino 711 Lucky Lane, Coarsegold (866) 794-6946 chukchansigold.com Located near Yosemite National Park, Chukchansi Gold Resort and Casino has made it its mission to provide a worldclass destination experience for gaming, dining and entertainment — all from its home in the Sierra foothills. And since reopening its doors last January after more than a year of closure, it seems the popular casino is back to doing what it does best: variety.

“We work very hard to keep our gaming options interesting and updated for our guests,” says Deann Kamalani, director of marketing. “We provide a wide range of gaming options by offering the

LOCAL CASINO: Chukchansi Gold Resort and Casino offers table games, entertainment and dining options, just minutes away from Fresno.

holiday party, nonprofit banquet, golf tournament or Sunday brunch, both members and non-members alike turn to the club’s professional staff, service and food quality to host events throughout the year.

As for the what’s on the horizon, well, this place isn’t leaving any opportunity out.

“Being as fast-moving and forwardthinking as we are,” Lancaster notes, “we

are always prepared to make country club life even more enjoyable for our members.”

2. Fort Washington Golf and Country Club 10272 N. Millbrook Ave. (559) 434-1702 fortwashingtoncc.org

latest variety of slot machines and also a variety of fast-action table games available on the market.”

The casino offers 56,000 square feet of gaming space dedicated to its 1,740 slot machines and table games, including options like video poker, blackjack, Mystery Card Roulette and Ultimate Texas Hold’em. But that’s just the tip of the entertainment iceberg for Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino.

When it comes to amenities, this place provides guests with 402 hotel rooms to help extend their visit, a full-service spa, state-of-the-art fitness room, indoor/ outdoor pool, outdoor event center, five dining venues, nightclub, arcade, business center and conference rooms. Kamalani notes within the last year, its outdoor entertainment venue has been updated and a VIP lounge and the Mountain View lobby have opened.

“Our friendly team members, casino atmosphere, lodging accommodations, a wide assortment of dining options and a variety of Rewards Club benefits are a few attributes that set us apart from our local competition,” Kamalani explains.

She recommends visitors stay up-to-date by visiting its website to catch the Summer Concert Series lineup.

Thank You

DWEEZIL ZAPPA

STANLEY JORDAN

MAKING US THANK YOU FOR A LOCAL FAVORITE MENTION THIS AD AND SAVE 10% ON YOUR NEXT VISIT

0002955157-01

NOEL PAUL STOOKEY

OFFER EXPIRES 8/31/17

559-486-BEER • TIOGASEQUOIA.COM

www.towertheatrefresno.com

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

9

5156 N. Blackstone Ave. North of Shaw, Fresno 866-466-7435 www.morfuniture.com

Mor....Where You Always Get Mor Furniture For Less!

0002925814-01

Voted #1 Furniture Store Thank you Fresno

10 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Arts and Entertainment 2. Table Mountain Casino 8184 Table Mountain Road, Friant (559) 822-7777 tmcasino.com

3. Tachi Palace 17225 Jersey Ave., Lemoore (866) 4PALACE tachipalace.com

Museum

1 Fresno Art Museum 2233 N. First St. (559) 441-4221 fresnoartmuseum.org As one of Fresno’s few art museums, earning the top spot in the People’s Choice Awards category may appear as an easy out. Well, not so fast.

The 67-year-old institution has worked tirelessly to provide residents and visitors with a superb selection of contemporary art exhibitions through the years. Executive director and chief curator Michele

People’s Choice

Ellis Pracy has made it a museum goal to benefit all who pass through its doors by providing thought-provoking educational programs and special interactions with various artists.

Since Ellis Pracy signed on with the museum two years ago, the museum has hosted original exhibitions and enriching programs geared toward adults and continued to foster its vibrant art education program for children ages pre-kindergarten through college.

But with the museum’s location in a central Fresno neighborhood that receives little foot traffic — at Clinton Avenue and First Street — it was key to market Fresno Art Museum differently and reach wider audiences to make it a destination again, Ellis Pracy says. Its efforts seem to be working.

“Our marketing strategies have resulted in increased traffic, especially from those visiting the area,” she explains.

“Donors are investing in the museum because they see evidence the museum is well-managed. They know FAM’s exhibitions and programs meet standards of excellence, and that the staff is comprised of museum professionals.”

The American Alliance of Museumsaccredited museum also set its focus on

curating original exhibitions that are relevant to Fresno and its surrounding communities, helping to expand their impact with panel discussions, lectures, demonstrations, classes and readings that are closely tied to them. Its indoor and outdoor facilities are available to the community for events, including weddings, receptions, plays, concerts and more.

Highlighting local artists, as well as selections from Fresno Art Museum’s permanent collection, more regularly are also of utmost importance to Ellis Pracy.

This year’s first full changeover exhibition opens May 19, and will devote three primary galleries to two of Fresno’s “heralded women artists:” Nancy Youdelman and Leslie Patterson Batty.

“As chief curator, I intend for the museum as a whole to have a message expressed through the artists and artworks chosen for exhibition. We do not show art simply for art’s sake,” Ellis Pracy says.

“Our curatorial decisions come from a think-tank situation, where we bring ideas to the table, divide up the exhibitions and pursue the final product.”

The Fresno Art Museum is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday to Sunday.

Admission costs $5 for youth ages 6 to

17. Adult admission costs $10 and children under 5 are admitted for free. The museum does close for special events, so it is best to check the museum’s website before planning a visit.

2. Forestiere Underground Gardens 5021 W. Shaw Ave. (559) 271-0734 undergroundgardens.com

3. Arte Américas 1630 Van Ness Ave. (559) 266-2623 arteamericas.org

Nightclub

1 The Standard Restaurant and Lounge 9455 Fort Washington Road (559) 434-3638 standardfresno.com The Standard Restaurant and Lounge’s name is not just a flashy title — it’s basi-

FRESNO CITY COLLEGE

Students Love our Tutorial Center!

Voted #1 three years in a row! www.fresnocitycollege.edu Fresno City College is a college of the

State Center Community College District

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Arts and Entertainment cally the business’ motto. For the past nine years, The Standard has created an upscale experience on both the restaurant and nightlife sides of its operation, focusing on an intimate social setting and a slower pace for guests to enjoy.

“We’re busy on both sides. For the restaurant, we’re not hustle and bustle, especially with our lounge setting. And on the nightlife side, it’s vibrant,” says manager Raj Bisla. “Our DJs know how to cater to the Fresno crowd. Our bottle service is top tier; we have an excellent bar staff and waitress staff. They’re all versed and knowledgeable on the ‘the standard’ of highest customer service.”

The Standard has earned a reputation for serving the best in craft cocktails and housing a large whisky selection, as well as providing a nice, safe environment for visitors to socialize and let loose for the evening. The regular rotation of resident DJs also play a variety of music genres for Fresno’s diverse crowds, including Top 40, house, hip-hop and throwback tunes.

But its true secret weapon: owner, Steve Bisla.

“Our owner, Steve Bisla, has been in business for a long time; he’s never stayed stagnant but wants to keep our-

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

11

People’s Choice

selves updated,” Bisla says. “After 25 years, he keeps evolving and moving forward. It keeps a good customer base coming in and seeing what we have to offer.”

The club — open Fridays and Saturdays — was recently outfitted with a new lighting system to keep the atmosphere new and fresh, and has a steady slew of exciting annual and special parties to keep locals on their toes.

Along with The Standard’s Halloween, pre-Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve festivities, Bisla says the business has been foraying into the world of themed parties with September’s Masquerade Ball and last December’s prohibition party to celebrate its official end in 1933.

Guests donned flapper dresses and paperboy hats and secured their entrances with a password — all genuinely buying into the club’s efforts.

The Standard is hoping to add to its success of themed events, and keeps its website and social media sites up to date with new information and the latest happenings.“We’re becoming one of those Fresno staples that give people a chance to have a good time, socialize and feel safe,” Bisla says. “That’s what a nightclub is all about.”

Can you get out?

Escape rooms — a global entertainment phenomenon involving tests of brain power — have unlocked a new way to have fun in Fresno and Clovis.

Escape rooms work this way: A team of people remain in a room for one hour trying to find clues and solve puzzles. Their goal is to complete a mission and “escape.”

“It’s almost like being in a live video game,” says Jana Wilkerson, owner of The Great Escape in Clovis.

In one of Wilkerson’s games — Mafia Bomb Squad — members of the Mafia have hidden a bomb in a 1920s speakeasy. Team members must solve puzzles in order to find and disarm the explosive.

Wilkerson’s other game is called Zombie Lab. A costumed character playing a zombie is on a chain that gets longer every five minutes, allowing him to chase team members as they figure out clues and puzzles. Most escape rooms don’t have characters in costume.

Morgan Schreiber, who provides customer support at Fresno Escape Room, says escape rooms reflect the popularity of physical and digital games but “take that to another level.”

Fresno Escape Room offers two games: Pipe Works — set in an underground industrial city that’s losing power — and The Crimson Storm, involving prisoners aboard a magical ship during a powerful storm.

A Google search shows four other escape rooms in the Fresno-Clovis area: Breakout Fresno, Xcape Room Fresno, Mind Games Clovis and Unlocks Escape Rooms in Clovis.

We think you’re smart, too.

Federally Insured by NCUA

0002926191-01

And we’re proud to be the People’s Choice for 11 consecutive years.

12 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Arts and Entertainment

strummersclub.com

3. Fulton 55 875 Divisadero St. (559) 412-7400 fulton55.com

Performing Arts Venue/Theater

1 Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater 1226 N. Wishon Ave. (559) 266-9494 rogerrockas.com On the eve of its 40th anniversary, Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater’s namesake, Mr. Roger Rocka himself, believes it’s the unique entertainment venue’s caliber rather than setup that makes it tick. Sure, the intimate space provides a full evening of relaxation and fun with its

dinner-and-a-show combo. But for Rocka, its successsince opening in 1978 encompasses much more than that.

“What’s special about it is not so much of our structure, but that Dan [Pessano] and his crew have done outstanding performances year after year,” he says.

“We try to match that high quality on the food and service side of things, and make everyone feel like family rather than just customers.”

Pessano and Good Company Players got their start five years earlier, putting on performances at a downtown Fresno hotel during the summers before Pessano and Rocka joined forces to create a space for the theater group to perform on a regular basis. The dinner and theater revenue streams help to keep the other side afloat.

The Oregon resident stays current with Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater happenings every week through the wonders of technology, and rarely misses a new performance. But he gives a lot of credit to Pessano and the Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater staff for running its day-to-day operations, with many employees maintaining a long tenure.

In fact, the executive chef, Eric DeGroot, got his start at the venue in 1987

0002880546-01

2. Strummers 833 E. Fern Ave. (559) 485-5356

People’s Choice

LIVE THEATER: Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater is the place to go for top-quality food and entertainment. Here, Emily and Laurie Pessano get ready for a show.

working as a busboy and server, later coming back to Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater to help in the kitchen where he still remains today. Rocka explains that DeGroot and his team put together an innovative, creative menu for each of the

featured shows that help complement and add to the overall experience for guests show after show.

“Audiences have evolved and we’ve tried to evolve with them, so we involve young people more and more and more,”

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

Arts and Entertainment

People’s Choice

2. Saroyan Theatre 730 M St. (559) 445-8100 fresnoconventioncenter.com/saroyan-theatre

3. The Tower Theatre for the Performing Arts Events Center 815 E. Olive Ave. (559) 485-9050 towertheatrefresno.com

SPORTS BAR: Brandon Chrest, Dana Moritz and Grant Kapigian cheer for Fresno State

at Dog House Grill.

a handful of actors to play more than 100 characters. Performances run through Sunday, May 14. As for the future, well, Rocka hopes more and more generations of audiences will come to view the space as home.

“I hope that we can continue and be

Sports Bar

1 Dog House Grill 2789 E. Shaw Ave. (559) 294-9920 firestonegrill.com/dog-house-grill For Dog House Grill, it’s all about

creating the best seat and atmosphere for the big game. Period.

“The atmosphere is a sports bar,” says general manager, Matt Billingsley. “We’re a kick-back restaurant with American barbecue.”

Since opening its doors in 2004, people have continued to flock to the joint — its famously packed parking lot only helping to illustrate the point. And when a special event at the nearby Save Mart Center or Fresno State campus, or an explosive team rivalry is scheduled to appear on the big screen, an open spot is even more valuable.

Billingsley credits Dog House Grill’s menu to “supersede” that of typical sports bar fare, and lists its tri-tip sandwich, ribs, chicken wings and side or basket of fries as the most popular items requested by hungry sports fans. The restaurant’s offerings expand to include burgers, house salads, grilled chicken, vegetable and pork sandwiches and various fried sides.

Dog House Grill proudly houses 14 TVs in its corner-lot space, with four of those being 120-inch projector screens that help bring clarity and the action to life for patrons. Revamped seating in the

DUTCHBROSFRESNO

the kind of place where people feel like we care about them when they come in, and we do,” he says. “In our culture right now, that’s hard to come by, so that’s what we want to be.

Rocka says. “We go back to old favorites because they’re favorites for a reason and still try to challenge the audiences with something they’ve never seen before.”

“Peter and the Starcatcher” is the current show gracing the venue’s stage, and is a prequel to “Peter Pan,” featuring only

5 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU THANK YOU FOR

VOTING

OPEN DAILY 5AM-11PM

4982 E ASHLAN AVE. 1773 W BULLARD AVE. 10033 N MAPLE AVE. OPEN 24 HOURS

BEST COFFEE HOUSE

1831 E MCKINLEY AVE. 1768 W SHAW AVE.* *WALK IN HOURS SUNDAY - THURSDAY: 5:30AM -10PM FRIDAY & SATURDAY: 5:30AM -11PM

0002914906-01

FRESNO

13

14 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Arts and Entertainment patio area also adds more space for diners to take advantage of during the lunchtime and dinner rushes.

But when it comes to what it does best, this place is sticking to what it knows best — consistency.

“Our service, our ability to keep people happy, replenished and interested in the game, it really does separate us from everybody else,” Billingsley says. “We have the ability to offer every big event and every big game in a classy, sportsloving fashion.”

2. Mad Duck Craft Brewing Co. 3085 E. Campus Pointe Drive (559) 325-3825 765 W. Herndon Ave., Suite 200, Clovis (559) 298-3825 madduckcraft.com

3. Yard House 90 El Camino Drive (559) 261-2165 yardhouse.com

People’s Choice Water Park

1 Wild Water Adventures 11413 E. Shaw Ave., Clovis (559) 299-9453 wildwater.net There’s no better way to beat the heat in the Central Valley than a trip to Wild Water Adventure Park. The 43-year-old destination is home to a lot of things that make the waterpark a go-to favorite during the warmer months: shade, fun rides and attractions and something that the whole family can enjoy.

Average stays at the park are around the seven-hour mark. That just proves that the Wild Water Adventure Park’s sprawling grounds provide more than enough to keep people engaged, including its barbecue pits and three onsite lakes for anglers to hunt the prime catch that can be found swimming through the waters.

Longtime attractions like the Thunder Falls family ride and Banzai Pipeline and The Rampage rides tend to draw the longest lines, with the Blue Wave, Kings

River Waterworks mat slides and Orca Lagoon helping to round out just a few more of the water park’s various experiences designed to entertain guests of all ages.

But it’s Wild Water Adventure Park’s most recent addition, Kaleidoslide, that still has park-goers’ attention.

The high-tech attraction engages today’s generation with video game-inspired elements that challenge riders’ hand-eye coordination to match the colored buttons on a console with lights flashing throughout the tube as they travel down the slide.

And as an added thrill, the waterpark encourages guests to beat the best scores of the day through social media.

Special family-friendly summer events like the Dive-in Movies screenings at the Blue Wave and Fireworks on the Lake displays only add to the excitement and memorable experiences regularly created at this local hot spot.

2. Island Waterpark 6099 W. Barstow Ave. (559) 277-6800 islandwaterpark.com

3. Blackbeard’s Family Fun Center 4055 N. Chestnut Diagonal (559) 292-9000 blackbeardsfresno.com

Winery

1 Fresno State 2360 E. Barstow Ave. (559) 278-4867 fresnostatewines.com Fresno State Winery this year will celebrate its 20th anniversary of becoming the first commercially bonded winery for a university in the country, says business and marketing manager Kevin Smith.

In those two decades, students have produced a wide variety of wines that have won more than 600 awards, including recent gold medals awarded by the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, the largest competition of American wines in the world.

About 5,500 cases of wine are produced annually, Smith says. Half of the

Thank You, OUR LOYAL CUSTOMERS AND FRIENDS,

Thank You Fresno!

Pismo Beach BEST CENTRAL COAST DESTINATION

8029 N. Cedar Ave. (at Nees) Fresno, CA 93720 559-440-1221 | www.batteruppancakes.com

0002925852-01

6 Years

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

0002924204-01

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

15

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Food and Drink

People’s Choice support the Jordan College of Agriculture and our program,” Smith says. “So it’s a great way to enjoy wine, but also support education and research programs at Fresno State. Joining the wine club is a great way to do that year after year.”

2. Engelmann Cellars 3275 N. Rolinda Ave. (559) 274-9463 engelmanncellars.com

3. CRU Wine Company 20146 Road 21, Madera (559) 673-6372 cruwinecompany.com

WINERY: Fresno State is the wine of choice for the people of the Valley. wine grapes are grown on campus, some come from Duarte Nursery in Linden and the rest are donated by boutique vineyards in Fresno County.

“Because we want our students to learn various styles and varietals, we do 20 different wines, including a lot of the major French style wines like cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, merlot and syrah,” he says. “We also do Spanish varietals, Portuguese and Italian.

Those are warmer-weather wines that come from areas south of the French regions. We have warmer weather here in the San Joaquin Valley so we do well in those wines like tempranillo, barbera, touriga and sangiovese.”

Fresno State Winery is also known for its Tailgate series, which includes a red blend, white blend, rose and moscato.

Fresno State wines can be purchased from retailers such as Trader Joe’s, Save Mart, Vons, Whole Foods, The Meat Market and The Market, Smith says. The wines are also sold in stores in the nearby foothill communities of Prather and Coarsegold.

The Gibson Farm market is the only store that carries every wine created by Fresno State Winery, and offers inhouse tastings and the opportunity to sign up for Fresno State’s exclusive wine club, Unleashed. Members receive three annual four-bottle shipments at $50 per shipment.

“All the revenues that come from the wine club and sales go back to

Bagels or Bread

1 Uncle Harry’s New York Bagelry and Coffeehouse Multiple locations When you walk into Uncle Harry’s New York Bagelry and Coffeehouse, you aren’t just a customer at this spot — you’re a friend.

See, while the name and caliber of its doughy delights have become a mainstay in Fresno’s popular culture since opening in 1995, it’s actually run as a mom-and-pop shop, focusing its efforts on producing a consistent, quality product and building personal relationships between its staff and clients.

“We’re local owners. We want them to feel like they’re family,” says coowner, Rena Rutledge. “We know them by name, greet them, just overkill on customer service.”

Still, when it comes down to it, it’s all about the goods.

The bagelry has built a reputation on serving specialized flavored cream cheese and bagels, as well as its crowdpleasing bagelwich sandwiches that are made up of scrambled eggs, American

cheese and your choice of meat stuffed within two halves of your favorite toasted bagel.

A sampling of its diverse bagel selection includes cinnamon raisin, pesto, strawberry, French maple toast and red velvet, with Uncle Harry’s offerings of cream cheese schmears upping the ante with flavors like honey butter, apricot and Lite Garlic Herb.

Like most breakfast-focused eateries, Uncle Harry’s provides a caffeine jolt to get customers’ mornings running, covering the gamut with espresso, coffee, blended and non-coffee beverages with cappuccino, cafe mocha, caramel freeze, caramel apple cider, Italian cream soda and more. And for people who stop in for lunch, Betty’s Original Toasted Sandwiches are available at every Uncle Harry’s location, excluding Fig Garden Village.

The menu offers seasonal bagels and can vary among the five locations.

“We are so thankful for our customers,” Rutledge says. “We wouldn’t be here without them, and we love hearing the feedback because it’s the only way we really know.”

created a line of customized, diverse and fresh products — a recipe that current owners Marc and Rachelle Wickliffe have only continued to put out into the community since taking over in 2007.

From biscotti, cinnamon rolls and deluxe croissants to Nicoise tortes, sugar cookies and fresh strawberry pies, the variety of baked goods is both expansive and seasonal to keep things tasty and fresh.

“Most of the things we can get fresh, we always try to do. It really does make a difference, so you have your cake and not feel too badly about it,” Myers says.

“There are new diets and we try to make something that can accommodate everyone. There are things we’re still working on, but we want to make sure they’re perfect before bringing them out onto the floor.”

Some specialty items include Eddie’s Bakery Cafe’s wheat and flourless, as well as low-sugar products. And while it’s gearing up for Easter-themed goodies to put on display, Myers notes the Nicoise and champagne cake are easily the fanfavorites of the bakery any time of the year.

“They’re both so, so light. No matter

2. La Boulangerie French Bakery & Cafe 730 W. Shaw Ave. (559) 222-0555 laboufresno.com

3. Eddie’s Bakery Cafe 7089 N. Cedar Ave. (559) 323-0900 eddiesbakerycafe.com

Bakery

Voted #1

1 Eddie’s Bakery Cafe 7089 N. Cedar Ave. (559) 323-0900 eddiesbakerycafe.com After 78 years of business, to say Eddie’s Bakery Cafe has solidified its place in the lives of Fresno residents is a bit of an understatement. We’re talking generations here, folks.

“It’s an incredible feeling to know that we’ve continued to do the same things for people and they want us doing the same things for them year after year, occasion after occasion,” says manager Sophia Myers.

But to earn that type of reputation, Eddie’s Bakery Cafe has successfully

Thank You

3367 W. SHAW AVE. FRESNO, CA 93711 559-229-2225

0002914084-01

16 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Food and Drink 2. Dog House Grill 2789 E. Shaw Ave. (559) 294-9920

Uncle Harry’s New York Bagelry & Coffeehouse is a longtime winner in this category.

firestonegrill.com/dog-house-grill

3. Famous Dave’s 7063 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 261-4227 famousdaves.com

Breakfast Place

1 Batter Up Pancakes 8029 N. Cedar Ave. (559) 440-1221 batteruppancakes.com

2. La Boulangerie French Bakery & Cafe 730 W. Shaw Ave. (559) 222-0555 laboufresno.com

3. Le Parisien Cafe Multiple locations leparisiencafebakery.com

Barbecue Restaurant

1 Westwoods BBQ & Spice Co. 8042 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 449-9227 westwoodsbbq.com If your hands weren’t covered with barbecue sauce during your last visit to Westwoods BBQ & Spice Co., you’re overdue for a redo.

In December 2013, the barbecue joint opened on the corner of Nees and Blackstone avenues by Dave Fansler of Fansler Restaurant Group. It doesn’t look as fancy as Yosemite Ranch Steak, Seafood & Roast House and Pismo’s Coastal Grill,

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

17

People’s Choice

BAGELS OR BREAD:

what you had for dinner, they’re going to fit into your occasion.”

¢

but as the Fresno native says — that’s the point.

“The inspiration was to do a contemporary-style barbecue,” Fansler says.

The interior looks like an upscale industrial warehouse with a full-service bar that features handcrafted cocktails and local craft drafts like the 99 Golden Ale from Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Co. and the Oaktown Brown from South Gate Brewing Company.

“We have 24 taps of handcrafted beers,” Fansler says.

Fansler and his team studied the different styles of barbecue around the country, asking themselves, “what would the Fresno palate like?”

The menu is the result of their research. The barbecue restaurant serves high-quality meat from Nebraska and areas surrounding the Midwest, Fansler says.

With chef Porfirio Aldape at the helm, tender and juicy creations are smoked on almond firewood. Fansler says the top seller is the Kansas City-style brisket burnt ends, which spend half a day in the smoker.

The menu isn’t complete without tritip, pastrami and pulled-pork sandwiches, fried chicken, cheeseburgers, woodgrilled chicken breast, jalapeño cornbread and beer-battered onion rings.

welcomes tiny artists to express themselves during their visit.

“Kids get so bored at tables. I’d rather see them up and creating something than sitting at a table on their iPhone,” Becci says. “Adults get down there and play, too. It helps give that feeling of community.”

And at the end of the day, with the Collas’ interest in being hands-on owners and establishing a similar team to help make the restaurant hum, community is really what it’s all about.

“We’re grateful people come and choose us,” Becci says. “We try to bring our best game and give everybody what they deserve: good food in a friendly environment. Hopefully, it makes a difference.”

2. Benaddiction

One never knows when or how a life3015 W. Bullard Ave. changing idea will present itself. For benaddictiontruck.com Becci Colla, it came to her in a dream.

The local business owner and her 3. Huckleberry’s husband and partner, Jeff, were in Arizo1083 E. Champlain Drive na attending a baseball tournament for (559) 433-4840 their son, and the concept of developing a restaurant that featured quality in222 E. Bullard Ave. gredients and healthy helpings struck her (559) 440-9045 — its sports-inspired name functioning huckleberrys.org as the perfect double entendre.

The Collas owned Great Harvest Bread Company at the time, and leaned on the experiences they gained running that business to create a family-oriented and customer-service-focused environment for customers to enjoy. Nine years later, and the busy breakfast place is still serving Jeff’s special pancake recipes, outstanding omelets and tasty sides, steadily adding to its menu as the customer’s needs evolve.

“We listen to what people have to say,” Becci explains. “We don’t skimp on quality. We don’t want to compromise. It’s easy to figure out ways to save, but we don’t want to. We also aren’t going to decrease our portions, which is substantiated by the amount of to-go containers we buy.”

Batter Up Pancakes’ expansive menu includes gluten-free and protein-packed pancake recipes, as well as new favorites such as its cinnamon roll french toast made with real yeast dough and the chile verde omelet.

For those looking for a bit of a gutbusting challenge, the restaurant’s Grand Slam Challenge consists of a 10-egg scramble, 2 cups of country potatoes and 1 cup of cheddar and jack cheese piled high on an old-fashioned buttermilk pancake, and tests locals’ stomach capacity by giving them 45 minutes to complete it. Only 11 of the 300-plus particiBREAKFAST PLACE: The Nina pants have been successful.

Younger customers can get in on some buttermilk pancake is made with chocolate chips, oats and bananas cooked inside the of the action at Batter Up Pancakes, too, pancake at Batter Up Pancakes. with the eatery’s dry-erase board that

18 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

¢

Food and Drink

People’s Choice

Buffet

1 Sweet Tomatoes 7114 N. Fresno St. (559) 435-5797 sweettomatoes.com The story of Sweet Tomatoes dates back nearly 40 years and more than 300 miles south.

See, the concept of basing a restaurant’s foundation on healthy fresh fruits and vegetables and a menu filled with from-scratch breads, soups and dressings was novel, inspiring a couple of surfers to take the the farm-to-table philosophy to the everyday, fast-paced consumer.

Enter: Souplantation.

Now, with 104 restaurants, the Garden Fresh Restaurant Corporation eatery has sprouted from its San Diego roots to operate under Sweet Tomatoes in other regions. But the original ideology behind the buffet remains intact.

Sweet Tomatoes partners with family farms to rush their locally raised produce to its kitchens within hours of harvest, according to Souplantation’s website,

with its chefs working to saute, mix and bake the restaurant’s seasonal spread of soups, dressings, focaccia bread, muffins and more. And its farm-fresh salads are chopped by hand, while the sweet treats are baked to delight for those looking for a sugary baked good to close their visit.

Customers don’t have to frequent the buffet to get a helping of Sweet Tomatoes goodness. It offers catering packages and special platters to accommodate any special event or celebration.

Sweet Tomatoes’ Club Veg also provides frequent guests with special discounts and offers, exclusive deals and news about the latest farm-fresh foods.

2. California Market Buffet at Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino 711 Lucky Lane, Coarsegold (866) 794-6946 chukchansigold.com/dining/california -market-buffet

3. Lin’s Fusion 5155 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 222-8478 linsfusion.com

Caterer

1 Pardini’s Catering 2257 W. Shaw Ave. (559) 224-3188 pardiniscatering.com Nearing its 60th year, Pardini’s Catering and Banquets is moving into the milestone year with a few updates to its banquet facility and company signage, proving that the successful, family-owned business has one foot securely grounded in the future.

President Jim Pardini notes that the banquet facility provides every amenity one would need for a successful event or meeting, including on-site video and sound equipment, bar service, dance floors and special rooms that can function as a reception hall or cocktail area.

“It’s a complete event center,” he says.

New carpet, lighting fixtures and bathroom improvements are on the agenda this year to keep the facility updated and polished, as well as a newly minted logo for two of the company’s entities.

A concessionaire for the Fresno Fair-

grounds, Fresno Convention Center and more, the banquet facility has created a more modern, clean logo to highlight this side of the business, as well as new signage to adorn the trucks and other properties on the catering side.

“The Annex Kitchen already has a new logo, and that got the ball rolling in deciding to update the other two,” Pardini explains, referring to the Italian-inspired restaurant headed by one of his sons, Jimmy, that took the space of the former Pardini’s Cafe.

But when it comes to the type of customer service and high-quality product, Pardini’s Catering and Banquets is sticking to what it knows — and that’s customization.

The catering facility’s set menus run the gamut of breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between, featuring edible delights such as Mediterranean and PanAsian items and burger and taco bars.

Still, those are just a starting point for most customers.

“The thing that makes us quite unique in a lot of ways is 80 percent of what we do is custom,” Pardini says. “Menus are a base menu and we love it, but we take a lot of personal attention to go into the planning of a big event, like weddings

We’re honored.

Best Bakery Best Wedding Cake Best Cupcake Shop Best Bagels or Bread

Since 1948, we’ve been committed to making great-tasting, made-to-order burgers, fries, and shakes for our guests. It’s all part of our

Eddie’s features a large variety of delectable bakery items made and sold fresh daily: cookies, cakes, cupcakes, pastries, tortes, tarts, breads and rolls just to name a few. Treat yourself today!

dedication to quality, freshness, and service.

Thanks for thinking so highly of us.

0002926014-01

We look forward to serving you again.

4302 N. Blackstone Ave.

5106 W. Shaw Ave.

2657 S. 2nd St.

between Ashlan and Gettysburg Ave.

Hwy. 99 to Shaw Ave. E.

just south of Jensen Ave. at Hwy. 99

In-N-Out.com

©2017 In-N-Out Burgers

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

19

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Food and Drink

People’s Choice each month off of its expansive secret menu. “That gets pretty wild and crazy,” Wilson says. Try delicious blends like the S’more Breve Latte, Molten Lava Frost or the Unicorn Blood Rebel.

More and more local residents have become customers, AKA members of the Dutch Mafia, because of Dutch Bros.’ engagement through social media, special deals and fundraising events for local causes, Wilson says.

“We donate to schools and nonprofits and, in turn, the support from the community has been more than amazing,” he says. “We’re excited to be able to grow that in the Fresno area.”

and fundraisers. We’re extremely flexible and that’s been a huge part of our success.”

2. The Painted Table 1211 N. Wishon Ave. (559) 443-7199 paintedtablecatering.com

3. Bobby Salazar’s Mexican Foods Multiple locations bobbysalazar.com

Chinese Restaurant

1

2. Starbucks Multiple locations

Shanghai Chinese Cuisine 4011 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 221-0227

starbucks.com

shanghaichinesecuisine.com If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. A cliché, yes, but the token phrase holds more than a bit of truth when it comes to Shanghai Chinese Cuisine.

The 37-year-old restaurant has stayed true to its authentic and traditional roots, preparing the same recipes from its diverse menu for customers over the past three-plus decades.

Shanghai Chinese Cuisine’s secrets to success: consistency and large portions.

“Our prices are reasonable, we’ve got big portions, a comfortable atmosphere and friendly service,” says LLC member, Pauline Dunn. “It’s very family-oriented.

Our service [staff] is very personable with the customers and we cater to families.”

Dubbed as an “amazing Chinese food adventure,” the eatery’s expansive offerings take a stop through appetizers and soups, pass along seafood entrées like its Sizzling Garlic Shrimp Delight, round the corner with traditional beef and chicken dishes and even touch on light and vegetarian specialties with Shanghai Chinese Cuisine’s Vegetable Foo Young and Braised Green Beans.

Dunn notes that some of the restaurant’s most popular requests, however, include its famed orange chicken, chow mein and chicken salad, which is made up of lettuce, chicken, dry rice noodles and simple house dressing that only consists of sugar, water and vinegar.

Many diners turn to Shanghai Chinese Cuisine for catering services, as well. It can cater parties from small, intimate gatherings to events of 400 people.

Dunn and the rest of the team are grateful to area customers for yet another win.

“Thanks for your support,” she says.

“We’ll continue to look forward to seeing you.”

COFFEEHOUSE: Anybody up for Dutch Bros.? The answer is always yes. Here are

Conner Stevens, Conner Friedline, Assistant Manager Matt Wakeman, Mayra Maravilla, Faith Brearley and Kelli Coffelt.

2. Dai Bai Dang 165 E. Paseo Del Centro (559) 448-8894 daibaidang.com

3. PF Chang’s 7894 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 438-0814 pfchangs.com

Coffee House

1 Dutch Bros Coffee Multiple locations dutchbros.com At Dutch Bros. Coffee, it’s not only the coffee that jumpstarts your morning or gives you a midday boost — energy and good juju just pour from the windows.

“It’s a different vibe,” says Brent Wilson, who owns the four Fresno/Clovis locations with his wife, Genesis Wilson.

“It’s not quiet and mellow; it’s loud, fun and a get-your-energy-up-type setting.”

The baristas, or rather, bro-istas, connect with customers, memorizing the drink preferences of regulars and taking time to have a friendly chat with everyone they meet. There are three drive-thru locations in the area and one sit-down coffee house that opened in April 2016 at Shaw and West avenues.

“It was the first coffee house in the state of California for Dutch Bros.,” Wilson said. “It’s been amazing; there’s only so much of a connection you can make

through a drive-thru window, but in the coffee house we really get to chat with and get to know our customers.”

Another coffee house is set to open early next year at Palm and Herndon avenues, Wilson says.

The Grants Pass, Oregon-based chain serves coffee, tea, Blue Rebel energy drinks and specialty espresso drinks.

“Corporate is great about reaching out to customers and finding out what they like,” Wilson says. “Our Dutch Freeze, which is frozen coffee — we don’t blend it, we have a machine that freezes it up really fine — is popular and tasty. We add any flavor to it. Our Annihilator, a chocolate macadamia nut breve, and our Caramelizer, a caramel mocha, are our most popular espresso drinks.”

Dutch Bros. also releases four drinks

3. Kuppa Joy Coffee House 1900 N. Echo Ave. (559) 555-1324 518 Clovis Ave., Clovis (559) 298-7234 kuppajoy.com

Cupcake Shop

1 Eddie’s Bakery Cafe 7089 N. Cedar Ave. (559) 323-0900 eddiesbakerycafe.com When it comes to cupcakes, Eddie’s Bakery Cafe has stuck to its tried and true method: simplicity. It just works.

The shop’s three offered flavors of chocolate, white and red velvet are made fresh for customers to purchase every day — giving a burst of rich flavor and fine ingredients with each bite.

Manager Sophia Myers notes that Eddie’s Bakery Cafe is also known for its decorative cupcakes designed through-

OUR WAY OF SAYING “THANK YOU”

15

% OFF

WHEN YOU MENTION THIS AD Expires 3/17/2018

ROCKIN’ GOOD FOOD 3015 W BULLARD AVE • FRESNO CA 93711•559-379-6082

0002891376-01

20 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Food and Drink out the year, as well as some of its seasonal creations.

Come March, the bakery’s artisan baking skills are on full display with the well-received Irish potato cake, which just so happens to be available in cupcake form.

“March is our only month that we carry Irish potato cake, which is the most popular of the month,” Myers says. “We do cupcakes of that same cake and it’s something that is asked for year-round. It’s a spiced cake, and we do a cream cheese icing and filling. The flavors of that are just perfect together.”

For local brides and grooms, the cupcake has become a go-to dessert item for its guests to enjoy — allowing couples to create a beautiful spread of bite-sized treats rather than commit to the traditional wedding cake to deliver a sweet ending to the start of their happily ever after.

At Eddie’s Bakery Cafe, customer service and commitment to producing personal experiences for guests are top priorities.

“We take that time to make sure that what you’re envisioning is something we can create for you,” Myers explains. “To have it come out is one of the biggest joys to watch.”

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

21

People’s Choice 2. Frosted Cakery 1292 N. Wishon Ave. (559) 917-8880 frostedcakery.com

3. Cupcakes Bakery 7062 N. Cedar Ave. (559) 325-0935 cupcakesbakery.net

Delicatessen

1 Sam’s Italian Deli 2415 N. First St. (559) 229-9346 samsitaliandeli.com Sam’s Italian Deli is one of the Valley mainstays where residents take out-oftowners; you haven’t experienced Fresno unless you’ve eaten a handcrafted sandwich or sampled meats and cheeses from the longstanding gem.

The full-service Italian delicatessen and market opened by Sam and Angela Marziliano has been in the same location for 36 years.

DELICATESSEN: Here are the faces behind the counter at Sam’s Italian Deli: Nick

Marziliano, Marleen Goulet, Dave Evans, Mike Shafor, Greg Rodriguez and Angela Marziliano.

Everything served in the deli is created in-house from scratch, from salads and sauces to pastas, meatballs and sausage, says Nick Marziliano, who now co-owns the deli with his mother, Angela.

“They’re family recipes and recipes we have developed over the years,” he says.

“It’s all done right here from scratch, we have a huge kitchen. We employ more than 30 people now, so when people think it’s just a deli serving meats and

cheeses — it’s so much more than that.”

At lunchtime, the line of customers usually extends out of the door thanks to the popularity of the deli’s sandwiches.

Customers also take home entrées to go, where they can heat up homemade pasta dishes in the oven. The catering department is busy, as well, offering a selection of Italian entrées and salads.

Employees at the counter slice a selection of 250 meats and cheeses to order.

0002925781-01

Thank you for voting us People’s Choice for Best Seafood, Best BBQ and Best Fine Dining

22 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Food and Drink

2. Deli Delicious Multiple locations deli-delicious.com

3. Piemonte’s Italian Delicatessen 616 E. Olive Ave. (559) 237-2038 piemontesdeli.com

Desserts

1 Ampersand Ice Cream 1940 N. Echo Ave. (559) 264-8000 ampersandicecream.com Husband and wife Jeff and Amelia Bennett decided an old-fashioned ice cream shop would fill the void in the Fresno food scene and set to work, concocting original recipes in their home kitchen.

On Memorial Day 2015, Ampersand Ice Cream opened its doors, offering tastes of the Valley’s agriculture through authentic handcrafted ice cream.

“We are one of the few ice cream shops in all of California that make our ice cream completely from scratch,” Amelia says. “We use Top O’ The Morn Farms (in Tulare) for all of our dairy and our ingredients are locally sourced, including Lanna Coffee, Enzo Olive Oil and inseason produce from Food Commons Fresno.”

The shop is unique because it is a small-batch creamery and state-licensed

Thank You

DESSERTS: Ampersand Ice Cream incorporates fresh, local ingredients to prepare

special flavors like this strawberry ice cream. It also recently hosted an event that teamed its ice cream with Girl Scout Cookies. Yum!

dairy plant, which means the Bennetts pasteurize their product on-site, Jeff says.

“Our fully unique flavors are built from the ground up,” he explains. “Other ice creams use a base that has already been pasteurized, but we get to create different bases by varying the amount of sugar depending on what will be mixed in. For our Lanna Coffee flavor, we put the coffee grounds in before it’s pasteurized to

give it that caffeine and flavor boost.”

Customers can watch the process through a window. It takes about four hours for Amelia to make a batch of ice cream, from pouring the milk to freezing the final product.

Ten employees serve up Ampersand’s 16 flavors, which rotate monthly. A few tried-and-true favorites remain in the case year round, including Whiskey Cara-

0002891356-01

“We have a variety of 40 different salamis alone,” Marziliano says.

The Italian market side of the store offers a huge selection of ingredients from a diverse choice of brands for customers creating their own Italian meals at home. Sam’s Italian Deli carries more than a dozen brands of San Marzano tomatoes, which have been popular among famous chefs and cooking shows for making sauces, Marziliano says.

The wide selection of products — and especially their quality — sets Sam’s Italian Deli apart from other delicatessens in the area, Marziliano says.

“If I would not serve it to my friends and family, I will not sell it,” he says.

“That has been the way we’ve run the business from the beginning.”

People’s Choice

FOR VOTING US

C H I N E S E R E S TAU R A N T · B A R · A S I A N F U S I O N R E S TAU R A N T

ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS!

Business Hours Monday - Thursday 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Friday & Saturday 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Sunday 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

In Co -St up ore on

WHEN YOU SPEND

$25 5155 Nor th Blackstone Avenue - Fresno

559-222-8478

Offer Expires: 4-30-17.

Not valid w/any other offer.

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

¢

23

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

CELEBRATING OUR 24TH YEAR IN DOWNTOWN FRESNO PROVIDING DELICIOUS FOOD AND EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE!

MEDITERRANEAN GRILL Number One N I N E

Y E A R S

I N

A

R O W

T h a n k Yo u Fres n o Mediterranean Grill is a full service, casual restaurant located in downtown Fresno. We are known for our hearty and flavorful Mediterranean dishes and efficient service. We’ve been offering exceptional food at a great value for over 24 years.

Our menu features the freshest of ingredients prepared daily under the watchful eyes of our much-loved mama. She takes great pride in insuring and asserting quality and freshness in every dish we serve.

MEDITERRANEAN GRILL • 1025 U STREET • DOWNTOWN FRESNO • ACROSS FROM OFFICE DEPOT

5 5 9 . 4 41. 70 5 0

0002914213-01

PLEASE CALL US FOR ALL YOUR CATERING NEEDS

24 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Food and Drink

People’s Choice

Downtown Fresno eatery is food for the soul

CHEF PAUL’S CAFE: Chef Paul Pearson is developing a loyal following dishes like chicken and waffles, greens and grits.

Paul Pearson says God gave him the desire of his heart.

The desire was to cook, and today many satisfied customers appreciate the soul food he produces at Chef Paul’s Cafe in Fresno’s Chinatown.

Someone bet him $1,000 that he couldn’t make a restaurant work in that location. Pearson has since collected on the bet.

He gets 200 to 250 customers a day, and on Sunday, people are lined up when the restaurant opens to serve fried chicken, braised oxtails, meatloaf, ribs, fried and baked fish, greens, grits and more.

Pearson, 64, was 13 when he got his first restaurant job. Fifty years later, after working in many of Fresno’s finer restaurants, he’s still happy in the kitchen. “I’ve truly enjoyed it. I’m very fortunate,” he says.

Pearson credits Al Pardini, a late Fresno restaurateur, with teaching him how to cook.

At Chef Paul’s Cafe, he credits his buddy, Pete Salcedo, with helping things run smoothly. But the top credit goes to his wife, Rose Marie, also known as “Pinky.”

“She’s the backbone of this place,” says Pearson, who also has a catering business.

Chef Paul’s Cafe, 952 F St., is open from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, and 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. It’s closed Monday and Tuesday. “Like” the restaurant on Facebook.

People’s Choice 1st Place Winner 13 Years

Celebrating 61 years!

We Thank You!!!

Founded in 1956

221-6338

252-7100

252-7900

237-7054

237-5540

229-7811

229-0214

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Food and Drink mel Swirl and Honeycomb. Another popular flavor among customers is Bordeaux, modeled after the See’s candy of the same name.

“It’s a brown sugar espresso base with house-made fudge rippled in and chocolate sprinkles,” Jeff says. “My favorite is the Grizzly Jack, which we made last year when the Fresno Grizzlies made the championship. It’s inspired by Cracker Jack and is a butter popcorn ice cream with molasses caramel and candied almonds mixed in.”

As if the tantalizing flavors of fresh ice cream weren’t enough, Ampersand also bakes enormous cookies in-house, which can be turned into ice cream sandwiches, along with milkshakes, root beer and Coke floats and a new cold-brew affogato, which is cold-brewed coffee poured over the top of a scoop of ice cream.

The shop serves all of these desserts from noon to 11 p.m. daily.

2. La Boulangerie French Bakery & Cafe 730 W. Shaw Ave. (559) 222-0555 laboufresno.com

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

25

People’s Choice 3. Cheesecake Factory 639 E. Shaw Ave. (559) 228-1400 thecheesecakefactory.com

Family Restaurant

1 Pismo’s Coastal Grill 7937 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 439-9463 pismos.com For Dave Fansler, creating a familyfriendly atmosphere is the foundation of his three restaurants: Yosemite Ranch Steak, Seafood & Roast House, Westwoods BBQ & Spice Co. and Pismo’s Coastal Grill.

Although Pismo’s Coastal Grill is less than 150 miles away from the Central Coast, the seafood restaurant resembles a beachfront eatery with delicious appetizers and entrées.

The Pismo’s Platter is a crowd-pleasing appetizer for families to enjoy. It includes marinated crab, oysters, shrimp and ahi tuna poke.

“Adults like introducing their children

for voting us the

#1 Spa in Fresno!

to seafood,” Fansler says.

The kid’s menu includes your choice of grilled salmon or mahi-mahi, fried snapper, chicken strips, popcorn shrimp, cheeseburger, grilled cheese sandwich or buttered noodles.

Although the menu is mainly comprised of seafood, there are a few vegetarian-friendly appetizers like roasted edamame and grilled artichokes and specialty salads like the Bistro Salad with pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries and champagne vinaigrette.

In a nutshell, the seafood restaurant doesn’t disappoint. There are tasty bites for children and handcrafted cocktails mixed at a full-service bar for adults.

“It’s a win-win for children and adults,” Fansler says.

2. Red Robin Multiple locations redrobin.com

3. DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant Multiple locations diciccos.com, diciccosclovis.com, diciccosfresno.com

Fine Dining

1 Yosemite Ranch Steak, Seafood & Roast House 1520 E. Champlain Drive (559) 434-4403 yosemiteranchssrh.com Yosemite Ranch Steak, Seafood & Roast House provides an intimate and cozy atmosphere — ideal for fine dining.

Owned by Dave Fansler, the menu features appetizers that are perfect to share between couples and samplers for sharing among friends.

“We have a lot of offerings that customers like for dinner,” Fansler says.

The chefs go to great lengths to develop and perfect dishes that are unique to the steakhouse. Meals are cooked on a coastal red oak fire — an important fact that sets the steakhouse apart from competitors.

“No gas flavor — it’s a real natural, seasoned flavor,” Fansler says.

Prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients, Fansler says the most popular

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Food and Drink meals include baby back ribs, the combination plate of ranch steak and lobster tail, and seafood delights like shrimp, calamari and salmon.

“Salmon is spectacular, served a variety of ways,” Fansler says.

You can enhance your dinner with cracked pepper and blue cheese, sautéed portobello mushrooms, firecracker prawns or pan-roasted scampi. The wine list includes varietals from Paso Robles, Napa, Sonoma, Monterey and Russian River.

Complete your dinner with dessert: the Ranch Kitchen Crème Brulee Cheesecake, the Yosemite Rangers “Contest Winning” Chocolate Cake or the Bread Pudding with Jack Daniel’s Bourbon Sauce.

2. Cracked Pepper Bistro 6737 N. Palm Ave. (559) 222-9119 crackedpepperbistro.com

3. Ruth’s Chris Steak House 7844 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 490-0358 ruthschris.com

People’s Choice Hamburgers

1 In-N-Out Burger Multiple locations in-n-out.com California wouldn’t be the top destination on the West Coast without In-N-Out Burger. For nearly 70 years, the burger joint has served fresh ingredients, including patties free of additives, fillers and preservatives.

The menu is simple. First, choose your burger: hamburger, cheeseburger or the Double-Double — two patties and two slices of American cheese. Toppings include crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes and signature spread.

And, of course, a burger shouldn’t be without a tray of fresh-cut french fries. If you’d prefer to skip a soda, order a vanilla, chocolate or strawberry milkshake.

The “not-so-secret” menu, a favorite among customers, includes the “AnimalStyle” burger. It includes pickles, grilled onions and an extra heaping of signature spread.

You can also order the 4x4 — four

HAMBURGER: In-N-Out Burger is known for its authentic flavor and its simple menu.

Sink your teeth into on of the chain’s Double-Double combos. patties and four slices of American cheese between a fresh-baked bun.

Now, if you’re cutting carbohydrates from your diet, you can order your burger wrapped in crispy lettuce instead of a toasty bun.

But no matter what your taste buds are

craving, In-N-Out Burger is ready to serve you.

2. The Habit Burger Grill Multiple locations habitburger.com

Thank You Fresno!

For voting the Mad Duck a 2017 People’s Choice Winner!

Whether you are coming in for a glass of our house brewed craft beers, a mouth watering hand-packed burger, or one of our tantalizing “one-handed” specialities... we promise, you won’t leave disappointed!

CONTACT CONTACT Open Daily 11am-Midnight 3085 E. Campus Pointe Dr. Fresno, CA 93710

559-325-3825

www.madduckcraft.com 765 W. Herndon Ave., #200 Clovis, CA 93612

2 0 1 7 559-298-3825

0002925907-01

26 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

THANK YOU FOR VOTING FOR US!

2017

BC’s Pizza & Beer is dedicated to provide fast and friendly service and some of the best pizza in the Central Valley. We pride ourselves on our vast beer selection featuring the best beers from all over the World with over 80 specialty bottles and 35 drafts available. We always stay on top of what’s new, rare and exciting from the best breweries with our weekly rotating draft selection. If you love beer and pizza then you really need to check us out , you won’t be disappointed! We guarantee it!

CHECK US OUT ON

20% OFF MEAL ENTIRE

WITH THIS COUPON. DINE-IN ONLY. 1 PER CUSTOMER. NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFERS OR DISCOUNTS.

(including alcoholic beverages)

BCsPizzaAndBeer.com On Clovis & Sunnyside.

1315 Shaw Ave

Clovis, CA 93612-3961 (559)297-7800

27

28 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Food and Drink

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US...

“BEST SPECIALTY STORE”

ICE CREAM: Zoey Lovgren, Emily Neer and Kiana Lovgren enjoy Superior Dairy ice

cream in Hanford.

JRSSPORTS

3. House of JuJu 453 Pollasky Ave., Clovis (559) 298-3090 houseofjuju.com

Hot Dogs

1 Costco Multiple locations costco.com If you’re like us, you associate Costco with bargains, buying in bulk and the treasure trove known as the food court.

At Costco, $1.50 goes a long way. You can buy a hot dog and 20-ounce drink for six quarters — a steal of a deal. You can add toppings like relish, onions, ketchup and mustard.

In 1985, Costco started selling the combination from a cart in front of the warehouse club. Today, customers continue to head to the food court for large portions of treats at low prices.

For example, you can order a handdipped ice cream bar or three scoops of gelato in a waffle cone for $1.50.

The best part? A membership isn’t required to visit the food court. There are three locations in the Clovis-Fresno area, with a handful of warehouses extending to Stanislaus County and San Joaquin County.

The meat plant, which produces the all-beef, quarter-pound hot dogs, is located in Tracy — about 130 miles from Fresno in San Joaquin County. It supplies

jrsports 559

hot dogs to thousands of locations throughout the United States, but buns are made in local bakeries.

2. Rocket Dog Gourmet Brats & Brew 88 E. Shaw Ave. (559) 283-8096 rocketdogbratsandbrew.com

3. Weinerschnitzel Multiple locations wienerschnitzel.com

4249 W Shaw Ave

Ice Cream

1 Superior Dairy 325 N. Douty St., Hanford (559) 582-0481 In case you didn’t know, Superior Dairy turns your dreams into reality. At the old-fashioned diner, you’ll find a mountain of ice cream — topped with fudge, whipped cream and a maraschino cherry — waiting for you.

Superior Dairy has been a familyowned jewel in the heart of downtown Hanford for nearly 90 years. It serves tri-tip sandwiches, soups and salads, but most notably, large portions of ice cream.

In 2013, Yahoo! Travel ranked Superior Dairy among the top shops for ice cream in the United States. It was a pleasant, but warranted surprise.

The S-O-S (Superior Oversized Sundae) is seven scoops of ice cream and

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Food and Drink sherbet, drizzled with hot fudge, strawberry and marshmallow sauces, and completed with a banana, whipped cream and chopped nuts.

The Banana Split is big enough to split among four people: three scoops of ice cream wedged between two slices of banana and topped with strawberry and pineapple sauces, whipped cream, walnuts and a maraschino cherry.

The Superior Special is two scoops of vanilla ice cream, topped with a banana, hot fudge, whipped cream and chopped nuts.

Sundaes can be ordered as a single scoop, double scoop or four scoops of ice cream. Flavors include vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, chocolate chip, maple nut, lemon, banana, rocky road and cookies.

Beyond hot fudge, toppings include caramel and peanut butter.

Keep in mind, though, that even a single scoop is big.

Superior Dairy also serves thick and creamy milkshakes and malts.

2. Ampersand Ice Cream 1940 N. Echo Ave. (559) 264-8000 ampersandicecream.com

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

29

People’s Choice 3. Cold Stone Creamery Multiple locations coldstonecreamery.com

Indian Restaurant

1 Elephant Lounge Indian Cuisine 80 W. Shaw Ave., Clovis (559) 323-1300 theelephantlounge.com In 2014, Ranjit “Junior” Dosanjh made his mark in the Clovis-Fresno area by opening Elephant Lounge Indian Bistro — a family-owned Indian restaurant with a fusion of flavors.

The executive chef was born in Punjab, India, but moved to the United States at age 10. He was raised in Silicon Valley, learning the essentials of cooking Indian cuisine from his mother.

“I’ve been in the food industry for 15 years,” Dosanjh said.

In 2004, he returned to his native country to embark on a six-month culinary journey. Afterward, he opened India 4 U and Xenia Bistro with his wife, Brinda, in

the Bay Area.

Dosanjh and his wife made their final move to the Central Valley 10 years later, planting roots in Clovis. He opened Elephant Lounge Indian Bistro in the space formerly occupied by North India Bar and Grill.

He spent about eight months renovating the space, adorning the interior ceiling with a chandelier imported from Europe.

“It has a gorgeous, gorgeous [fullservice] bar,” he said.

Oftentimes, you’ll find Dosanjh, his wife and children mingling with customers. Cooking alongside Dosanjh is Elias Fernandez.

“He’s a dear of friend of mine,” Dosanjh says.

The menu includes seafood specialties, dishes made with chicken, beef, lamb and goat, vegetarian-friendly options and tandoor-cooked dishes.

“It’s very healthy cooking,” Dosanjh says about tandoor-cooked dishes. “Very lean, meats are cooked to order.”

The butter chicken is the most popular dish, he said.

“It has a tomato-based sauce, simmered for 51⁄2 hours to perfection,” he adds.

Elephant Lounge Indian Bistro can also accompany private parties in a large banquet room.

“It’s very different from other Indian restaurants that you know,” Dosanjh says.

2. Tandoori Night 6751 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 438-7200 tandoorinightfresno.com

3. Brahma Bull 3050 W. Shaw Ave., Suite 108 (559) 275-1100 www.brahmabullindian.com

Italian Restaurant

1 DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant Multiple locations diciccos.com, diciccosclovis.com, diciccosfresno.com We can’t talk about culinary creations of Italy without mentioning DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant — the local Italian

Thank You for Voting Us #1 Caterer for 12 Consecutive Years!

Thank You Fresno!

1115 E Champlain, Fresno CA 93720 Phone : 559-434-4000 Mon-Fri 7:30am-6:00pm | Sat-Sun 8:00am-4:00pm

559.224.3188 2257 W. Shaw Avenue, Fresno, Ca 93711 pardiniscatering.com

0002891315-01

g us as your #1 Animal Hospita l

0002906962-01

for votin

30 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Food and Drink

People’s Choice

ITALIAN FOOD: Spaghetti with meatballs is a traditional dish at the Valley’s favorite, DiCicco’s.

eatery that has satisfied our taste buds for more than six decades.

There are dozens of locations throughout the Central Valley — expanding to neighboring cities like Sanger, Kingsburg, Madera and Oakhurst.

The original location sits on Black-

stone Avenue near Divisadero Street in downtown Fresno.

Each location is owned and operated by various members of the DiCicco family.

For example, Joanna Vitucci Lopez is co-owner of four locations, including the

original location, Clovis and Kings Canyon avenues, Shaw and Van Ness avenues and Shaw Avenue and First Street.

“I feel like we have a lot of name recognition because we’ve have been around for 60 years,” she says.

Although each location is unique, tried-and-true dishes and signature plates remain the same.

After all, Vitucci Lopez says, dining at the Italian eatery has grown to be a tradition for a lot of local families.

Whether you’re craving spaghetti and meatballs, fettuccine Alfredo, cheese or meat ravioli, tortellini or made-to-order pizza, the Italian eatery has your back.

Vitucci Lopez says recipes were passed down from their grandmother, Maria DiCicco, to her four sons: Nicola, Alberto, Frank and Roberto — also known as the “Four Sons of Italy.”

“It’s hard to find a local restaurant that has stayed open for so long,” she says.

Vitucci Lopez says the most popular dishes include lasagna, eggplant parmigiana, the four types of calzones and the Scarface Pasta.

The menu also caters to customers with dietary restrictions.

There are lighter-fare option and glu-

ten-free pasta available.

But no matter what you order, your taste buds will thank you.

2. Luna Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant 349 Pollasky Ave., Clovis (559) 299-4141 lunasclovis.com

3. Olive Garden 389 Shaw Ave., Clovis (559) 423-0405 6725 N. Riverside Drive (coming soon) olivegarden.com

Japanese Restaurant

1 Sakura Chaya Tokyo Cuisine 690 E. Nees Ave. (559) 438-9378 sakurachayarestaurant.com Sakura Chaya Tokyo Cuisine has been an international delight for a decade.

T hank you for voting us

Japanese Kitchen Sushi • Teppan Yaki • Traditional Dining 711 West Shaw Ave. Clovis, California 93612 Phone (559) 297-1100

japanesekitchenrestaurant.com

Sushi • Teppan Yaki • Traditional Dining 3050 W. Shaw Ave, Suite 112 Fresno, California 93711 Phone (559) 275-7535

edo-yarestaurant.com

0002941560-01

T hank you for voting us

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

Food and Drink Located at Nees Avenue and First Street, the Japanese restaurant serves a mix of traditional dishes and award-winning sushi rolls.

“We have a large variety of items of available,” says David Wong, general manager at the Japanese restaurant.

You can dine at the teppanyaki grill, watching as your meal is prepared before your eyes, order from the traditional dining menu or pick signature rolls from the sushi menu.

Let’s start with the teppanyaki grill, which is popular with large groups because there are numerous seats wrapped around the iron plate.

You can order teriyaki, hibachi or sukiyaki-style chicken, beef, New York steak, filet mignon, shrimp, calamari, scallops, salmon or cod.

Lunch is served with miso soup and salad, grilled vegetables and fried or steamed rice.

Wong says the Terrific Teppan Trio is popular as a lunch special for $11.99.

“It comes with chicken, beef and shrimp,” Wong says.

It also comes with miso soup and salad, grilled vegetables and fried rice.

Dinner is served with a shrimp appe-

31

People’s Choice tizer, miso soup and salad, grilled vegetables, fried or steamed rice and frozen yogurt.

Chefs are known to entertain customers by juggling eggs, telling jokes and making onion volcanoes and heartshaped piles of fried rice.

Wong says they bring years of experience and dedication to the Japanese restaurant.

Chefs go through an in-house training process that takes about six months, Wong says.

“Lots of them have been with us for a long time,” he adds.

The traditional dining menu includes teriyaki chicken, shogayaki chicken, pork, beef or seafood, yakizakana cod, salmon or mackerel, seafood tempura, katsu oysters and tempura udon.

The combinations are endless.

The sushi menu features signature rolls with eccentric names like Drunk Cousin Roll, Yo Mama Roll, 9-1-1 Roll, Godzilla Roll, R&B Roll and Crab Lover Roll.

He says the secret to success is simple: “The key is consistency, low turnover and loyal, long-term chefs.”

2. Japanese Kitchen 711 Shaw Ave., Clovis (559) 297-1100 japanesekitchenrestaurant.com

3. Edo-ya Tokyo Cuisine Restaurant 3050 W. Shaw Ave., Suite 112 (559) 275-7535 edo-yarestaurant.com

Mediterranean Restaurant

1 Mediterranean Grill and Cafe 1031 U St. (559) 441-7050 medgrillfresno.com Mediterranean Grill and Cafe is a landmark in downtown Fresno. For 24 years, the restaurant has filled the hearts — and stomachs — of customers who are treated like family.

Heiam Elaawar owns and operates the restaurant with her mother and brother.

She says her mother, known as “Mama,” is “the backbone of the restaurant.”

The menu features a variety of hearty and flavorful traditional Mediterranean dishes made with high-quality ingredients. For starters, you can order falafel balls, hummus, grape leaves or baba ghanoush.

“We’re known for quality, consistency,” she says. “We know customers by name.”

The most popular dishes are the fattoush chicken salad — made from toasted or fried pieces of pita bread — and the Lebanese chicken served with rice and garlic sauce.

She also notes the beef or chicken shawarma as a top item. Entrées include the Tabbouleh salad, the Greek chicken salad, lamb, beef or chicken kebabs and gyros. Finish your meal with homemade baklava, thin layers of phyllo stacked with honey, butter, cinnamon and nuts.

“We want to thank our customers,” Elaawar says. “We have wonderful, beautiful customers.”

The restaurant is open for lunchtime on weekdays, but offers full-service catering for special events and private parties.

Thank You

for voting us

#1 Japanese Restaurant!

Exquisite

Japanese Cuisine

Sakura Chaya

690 E. Nees Ave. | Fresno, Ca 93720 559.438.9378 sakurachayarestaurant.com

Gift Certificates Available

0002927003-01

Enjoy our skillfully prepared Japanese specialties, from sushi and teppan yaki to cocktails, tempura and savory noodle dishes. A traditional dining restaurant.

32 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Food and Drink

People’s Choice Peruvian eatery offers flavors from around the globe

Aldo Escribens, a banker in his native Peru, moved to the United States and found his niche in a restaurant kitchen. He now brings the cuisine of his South American birthplace to Fresno.

Escribens and his wife, Ana, own and operate Limón, a restaurant with two locations: 9455 Fort Washington Road at Friant Road and 7089 N. Marks Ave. at Herndon Avenue.

Limón means “lime” in Spanish, and the citrus fruit figures prominently in one of the restaurant’s signature items — ceviche. It’s a fish dish, and Escribens — the chef — uses chunks of red snapper marinated in lime juice. The citric acid from the juice affects the fish the same way that heating would, giving it the texture of cooked fish.

The couple serve their ceviche with cancha (roasted corn) and choclo (a big kernel corn similar to hominy).

Lime is also a key ingredient in Limón’s signature cocktail, the Pisco Sour. It’s Peruvian brandy mixed with egg white, sugar and lime juice.

Limón serves another traditional Peruvian entree — Lomo Saltados, which is top sirloin sauteed with onions, soy sauce and tomatoes. It comes with LIMÓN: The restaurant’s Truffle Mac and Cheese has a loyal following. rice and French fries because rice and potatoes are staples in Peru.

Customer reaction has been positive. “People are really happy that we are bringing a new concept to Fresno,” Ana Escribens says. “We are happy to be in Fresno. It’s a good place to be.”

The restaurant’s website is limonfresno.com.

2. Phoenician Garden Restaurant 1025 E. Herndon Ave., Suite 106 (559) 261-2747 thephoeniciangarden.com

3. The Broilers Multiple locations broilersfresno.com

Mexican Restaurant

1 Casa Corona 7044 N. Cedar Ave. (559) 323-7409 1724 W. Bullard Ave. (559) 283-8605 casacorona.com Three owners, two restaurants, one goal: serve tasty, authentic Mexican cuisine to the Central Valley. Casa Corona is more than a local hot spot for tempting taste buds, the Mexican restaurant is also your home away from home.

Owned by Armando Rodriguez, Elsa Rodriguez Killion and Melina Rodriguez, the siblings started working in the restaurant industry at a young age. Today, nearly 20 years later, they remain as active as they were on their first day.

“We love people, our customers are fantastic and our two restaurants are like extensions of our own homes,” Armando says.

“It’s like coming back to a very familiar place — like a second home,” Elsa adds.

The menu includes a variety of traditional and specialty items like nacho fries — french fries topped with ground beef, chile verde and melted cheese — and the La Ultima, a chimichanga smothered with enchilada sauce, melted cheese, guacamole and sour cream.

Staying consistent with their approach on providing a home away from home for customers, the Fresno natives remain true to their roots with items on the menu. Two dishes were created by local fitness trainers, Bookie and Tanner Munro.

The Bookalicious Burrito is a wheat tortilla filled with grilled chicken or prawns, boiled beans, brown rice, tomatoes and salsa.

The Tanner Tostada features a wheat tortilla loaded with grilled chicken, black beans, lettuce, corn, cottage cheese and salsa.

Each sibling has their own area of expertise, but they stick together when making major decisions.

“We’ve always been close,” Melina says, “so working together was natural for us.”

“Our parents taught us the value of working hard,” Armando adds.

A few months ago, the siblings added a handful of to-go items to the on-site freezers so customers can enjoy popular dishes at home.

Choose from chile relleno, chile verde, enchiladas, tamales and the Burrito Royale.

“We understand our customers can choose from a wide variety of Mexican restaurants in Fresno and the Valley,” Armando explains, “so it’s important to offer quality, great-tasting food that’s consistent from location to location.”

2. Sal’s Mexican Restaurant Multiple locations salsmexicanrestaurants.com

3. Castillo’s Mexican Restaurant 3659 E. Ventura Ave. (559) 485-1635

Microbrewery

1 The Mad Duck Craft Brewing Co. 3085 E. Campus Pointe Drive (559) 325-3825 The Mad Duck Neighborhood Grill & Taphouse 765 W. Herndon Ave., Suite 200, Clovis (559) 298-3825 madduckcraft.com In March 2010, Alex Costa and Mark Bagdasarian opened The Mad Duck Neighborhood Grill & Taphouse at Herndon and Willow avenues.

Five years later, with the success of the first location, they opened The Mad Duck Craft Brewing Co. near Fresno State in The Square at Campus Pointe.

As an alumnus of Fresno State, Costa says choosing to build the second location in The Square at Campus Pointe was simple.

“Fresno State, for a lot of us, is home,” he says.

Costa defines the brewery as a “chefdriven pub that focuses on the whole plate — great cocktails, great craft beer and great food.”

But without a doubt, the craft beers — handmade in small batches — bring customers in droves to the microbrewery.

“It’s the level of care, we have a very specific vision on the craft beers that we want to create,” Costa says.

The craft beers, Costa says, complement the flavors of California. Incorporating notes of citrus is an example. The Honey Pot Blonde, the Classic Californiastyle IPA and the Citra, referred to as “the baby IPA,” bring tropical flavors of citrus to your palate.

The Pub Ale and the Almond Brown Ale are brewed with flavors of caramel.

The Opulence Oatmeal Stout is a creamy concoction of coffee and chocolate.

Bagdasarian serves as the brewmaster of Mad Duck Craft. They have been friends since elementary school, Costa says.

“His perfection is something to behold,“ Costa says. “He’s highly critical of himself.”

And Costa doesn’t let by-products from the microbrewery go to waste. He donates spent grains, which are used to feed cattle, to three local ranchers and Fresno State.

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Food and Drink 2. Sequoia Brewing Co. 777 E. Olive Ave. (559) 264-5521 1188 E. Champlain Drive, Suite 107 (559) 434-2739 sequoiabrewing.com

3. Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Co. 745 Fulton St. (559) 486-2337 tiogasequoia.com

Patio and Outdoor Dining

1 The Elbow Room Bar & Grill 731 W. San Jose Ave. (559) 227-1234 elbowroomfresno.com The Elbow Room Bar & Grill is considered a landmark in north Fresno. As an anchor of Fig Garden Village, the restaurant has been open since 1955.

It underwent renovation a few years ago, but continues to take an artisan approach to serving comfort food like sautéed portobello mushrooms, deviled eggs and French dip sandwiches.

You can enjoy a plate of New York steak with a bottle of zinfandel, syrah or chardonnay. In fact, the restaurant was honored with the 2016 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.

Its wine list features vintages from Napa, Sonoma, Paso Robles, Santa Lucia Highlands and Russian River.

The restaurant has two indoor banquet rooms: The Banquet Room and The Cellar Room, which provide an intimate, cozy atmosphere for guests. But the showstopper of the restaurant is the Vineyard Patio Room.

The temperature-controlled patio gives a view of the bustling shopping center. It also features a fireplace and heaters for the winter, and multiple fans for the summer. A full-service bar is located on the patio for customers to order handcrafted beverages while enjoying the fresh air.

The weekend brunch and lunch menu items are perfect to enjoy on the patio.

Tempt your taste buds with the Crème Brûlée French Toast, the Riley’s Beer Battered Fish & Chips or the Mediterranean Quiche with sautéed vegetables.

2. Starving Artists Bistro 9447 N. Fort Washington Road (559) 433-0133 starvingartistsbistro.com

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

33

People’s Choice 3. Veni Vidi Vici 1116 N. Fulton St. (559) 266-5510

3. Pieology Multiple locations pieology.com

venividivicirestaurant.com

Pizza

1 Me-N-Ed’s Pizzeria Multiple locations meneds.com Do you know what perfection tastes like? If not, you should head to Me-N-Ed’s Pizzeria. Since 1958, when the original location opened, the pizzeria has expanded to include dozens of locations throughout the Central Valley.

The secret to success starts with staying true to traditional recipes and techniques. For starters, the pizzeria is known for using firebrick ovens to create crispy crust. You can choose between thin or thick crust and red tomato or white garlic Alfredo sauces.

It also offers an array of hearty meats for toppings: pepperoni, bacon, Canadian bacon, salami, ground beef, seasoned chicken, Italian sausage and linguiça.

Toppings extend to include fresh vegetables like artichoke hearts, chopped garlic, mushrooms, black olives, pineapple, jalapeños, spinach, tomatoes, zucchini, broccoli florets, roasted red peppers, bell peppers, red onions and green onions.

Signature combinations include The Italiano, Valley Veggie, Tuscan Harvest and Hot Hawaiian.

“We’re very fortunate to have dedicated team members, which makes our flavors consistent,” says Thomas Ferdinandi, executive vice president and chief operations office of Milano Restaurants International.

In addition to the pizzeria, Milano Restaurants International operates Blast 825° Pizza — a quick alternative to Me-NEd’s Pizzeria. There are two local locations: inside Fashion Fair Mall and outside Sierra Vista Mall next to Jamba Juice.

But where would Me-N-Ed’s Pizzeria be without the love and support of the community? As a way of returning the appreciation, the pizzeria established a philanthropic organization called the Me-n-Ed’s Do-Nation.

Recently, Ferdinandi says, $60,000 was distributed among three local charities: Poverello House, Catholic Charities and Boys & Girls Clubs of Fresno County.

2. BC’s Pizza & Beer 1315 Shaw Ave., Clovis (559) 297-7800 bcspizzaandbeer.com

Sandwich Shop

1 Deli Delicious Multiple locations deli-delicious.com Deli Delicious makes mouth-watering, made-to-order sandwiches. Your taste buds will tingle while choosing your sandwich from a variety of more than 30 hot, cold and specialty subs.

“Deli Delicious exists today because of the hard work and dedication of our beloved founders, fans and friends,” says Nate Gilbert, sales and marketing spokesperson for Deli Delicious.

In 1995, the Hobab family opened a sandwich shop in the Fresno area. It eventually grew into Deli Delicious Franchising. Today, there are more than 20 locations in the Central Valley — from Bakersfield to the Bay Area.

“Our brand has really matured over the years — stylish, fast-casual restaurants that serve sandwiches, salads, soups and french fries among other items,” Gilbert says. “Superior products, service and décor make Deli Delicious unique.”

You can customize your sandwich with your choice of fresh bread: white, whole wheat or sourdough. Hot subs include roast beef, mushrooms and Jack cheese (No. 33), hot pastrami and provolone cheese (No. 37) and turkey, bacon and Jack cheese (No. 39).

According to Gilbert, the most popular hot subs include hot pastrami, pepperoni salami and provolone cheese (No. 38), chipotle chicken and Jack cheese (No. 44) and barbecue tri-tip and provolone cheese (No. 45).

Cold subs include traditional favorites like ham and Swiss cheese, pepperoni and provolone cheese and triple threats like ham, salami and Swiss cheese.

As for cold subs, Gilbert says two sandwiches are top contenders: turkey, avocado, sprouts and cream cream (No. 21) and albacore tuna, avocado, sprouts and cream cheese (No. 29).

2. Sam’s Italian Deli 2415 N. First St. (559) 229-9346 samsitaliandeli.com

3. Piemonte’s Italian Delicatessen 616 E. Olive Ave. (559) 237-2038 piemontesdeli.com

SEAFOOD: Chef Colin Curtis shows off cajun coconut shrimp with sweet chili sauce at Pismo’s Coastal Grill.

Seafood

1 Pismo’s Coastal Grill 7937 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 439-9463 pismos.com Forget driving to the Central Coast to grub on fresh seafood, Pismo’s Coastal Grill has been bringing the beach to your table since 2009. Located in the Villaggio shopping center, Pismo’s is across the street from River Park Shopping Center.

It’s owned by Dave Fansler.

“The main thing is, we wanted to build a truly legitimately coastal restaurant — like it’s right on the beach,” Fansler says.

Mission accomplished. Deliveries are made on a daily basis to uphold the seafood restaurant’s commitment to serving fresh, high-quality products.

Weekly specials change due to seasonality and availability, but the menu features an array of items like PistachioCrusted Calamari, crab cakes, WoodGrilled Oysters, grilled prawns and pasta topped with shrimp.

Fansler says cioppino, a fish stew served in an iron pot, is popular. It comes with sourdough bread to dip.

“It’s like a seafood feast,” Fansler says.

The seafood restaurant also serves three kinds of clam chowder: Classic White, Spicy Red and Rhode Island Clear.

You can order a cup, bowl, mug, sourdough bread bowl or sampler.

Attached to the seafood restaurant is the Pismo’s Fish Market. You can purchase halibut, mahi-mahi, yellowfin tuna, snapper, trout, swordfish, Chilean sea-

34 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

2017

0002889528-01

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Food and Drink 2. Ruth’s Chris Steak House 7844 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 490-0358

3. Mimi’s Cafe 7660 Blackstone Ave. (559) 439-2669

ruthschris.com

mimiscafe.com

2. Red Lobster 1460 E. Shaw Ave. (559) 221-9495 1545 S. Mooney Boulevard, Visalia

3. Flemings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar 639 E. Shaw Ave., Suite 149 (559) 222-5823

Sushi

3. Central Fish Company 1535 Kern St. (559) 237-2049 centralfish.com

Steakhouse

1 Yosemite Ranch Steak, Seafood & Roast House 1520 E. Champlain Drive (559) 434-4403 yosemiteranchssrh.com Dave Fansler has more than 30 years of experience in the restaurant industry, starting with Steak & Anchor Restaurant & Lounge and Tahoe Joe’s Famous Steakhouse in the Fresno area.

In July 2006, Fansler opened the first restaurant as part of the Fansler Restaurant Group: Yosemite Ranch Steak, Seafood & Roast House.

The inspiration behind the steakhouse is Yosemite National Park — hence the name. In the early 1990s, Shepherd Avenue provided the route for lumber being transported from the areas surrounding Yosemite to the Sugar Pine Lumber Co. in Pinedale. The steakhouse is on the northeast corner of Champlain Drive and Shepherd Avenue — preserving a bit of a historical link.

The interior is decorated like an oldfashioned lodge with a full-service bar, anchored in the middle of the steakhouse, illuminated by twinkling lights.

“We have real comfortable atmosphere,” Fansler says.

The menu features appetizers, soups and salads, sandwiches and melts, burgers and entrées like bacon-wrapped filet mignon, slow-roasted sirloin and New York strip — cooked on a coastal red oak fire for optimal flavor.

And thanks to Pismo’s Coastal Grill, the steakhouse receives fresh seafood on a daily basis. You can choose from Butter-Braised Salmon, Australian Lobster Tail, pan-Roasted Scampi, Nut-Crusted Calamari and Alaskan king crab.

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

35

People’s Choice

bass and farmed salmon.

“We have Californian fish come directly from fisherman,” he said. Hawaiian fish like mahi-mahi is delivered from Honolulu.

redlobster.com

¢

flemingssteakhouse.com

Sunday Brunch

1 Fresno Breakfast House 2085 W. Bullard Ave. (559) 431-1385 fresnobreakfasthouse.com For nearly 18 years, Fresno Breakfast House has spoiled customers with scrumptious dishes for breakfast and lunch. The restaurant is owned and operated by the Tellawi family.

The original location was nestled at First Street and Ashlan Avenue, but closed when business was booming at the second location on Bullard and West avenues.

Symone Tellawi says her father, Sam, is the patriarch behind Fresno Breakfast House. She considers her father a role model, she says. The menu is comprised of breakfast basics and lunch specials.

“We have great omelets. One of our specialty omelets is the House Special,” she says. “We also have great eggs Benedict.”

She recommends the crepes florentine with hollandaise sauce and the Southwest Breakfast Enchiladas — topped with homemade enchilada sauce. FBH also serves cranberry and mango mimosas for brunch.

As for lunch, Tellawi says there are burgers, sandwiches, melts, soups and salads. If you’re indecisive on ordering breakfast or lunch, try the FBH Brunch Burger — complete with bacon, hash browns and a fried egg.

The interior of FBH is adorned with murals, tea pots and an indoor garden with a skylight.

“It’s pretty eclectic,” Tellawi says. “A lot of customers say they feel like they’re on vacation.”

FBH features a banquet facility for wedding receptions, bridal and baby showers, birthday parties, fundraisers and meetings. It also offers a catering company called Paradise Catering.

2. Campagnia 1185 E. Champlain Drive (559) 433-3300 www.campagnia.net

1 Wassabi 752 W. Shaw Ave. (559) 226-2233 2920 E. Nees Ave. (559) 797-4361 Escape reality and enter a world with more than 40 different sushi rolls. Without a doubt, Wassabi hooks customers with the eclectic atmosphere, enthusiastic employees and to-die-for rolls.

With the original location on Herndon Avenue closed, Wassabi has moved to the northwest corner of Willow and Nees avenues. The name: Wassabi on Fire. The second location, Wassabi Off The Hook, still stands in Fig Garden Village.

The most popular rolls on the menu include the OMG, the Booty Booty and 3M. The three rolls feature crab and spicy tuna. If you don’t have a palate for sushi, try the Nemo or the Yoda.

Wassabi also plays tribute to its hometown by featuring the Fresno: salmon, yellowtail, shrimp and green onions wrapped with soy paper and spicy tuna.

If you want to be bold, order the Smells Like My EX, the Climax, the Fore Play, the Orgasmic or the Pimp Daddy.

The menu also features vegetarianfriendly rolls with avocado, asparagus, eggplant, mushrooms or cucumber. But if you want to skip sushi, Wassabi has you covered with teriyaki chicken, Chilean sea bass, crab cakes, salted or garlic edamame, fried rice, deep-fried green beans, miso soup and salads.

2. I Love Sushi 465 W. Shaw Ave., Clovis (559) 297-1117 ilovesushiclovis.com

3. Roll One For Mi 1512 E. Champlain Drive, Suite 103 (559) 434-1464 rolloneformi.com

Tea House

1 Teazer World Tea Market Multiple locations teazerworldteamarket.com Teazer World Tea Market takes your taste buds on a tropical adventure. The

SUNDAY BRUNCH: Fresno

Breakfast House serves crepes florentine, among other mouth-watering dishes.

tea shop has locations throughout Fresno area, starting with the original location in the Tower District. Now, there are locations in the Galleria in Civic Center Square, River Park Shopping Center and on West Shaw Avenue.

The tea shop was founded by Ann Liao in 2003. She started with house specials and then, after chatting with customers, boasts more than 100 types of tea that can be customized. The options are endless.

Employees, called Tea Tenders, help customers navigate through the menu.

You can order tea with fresh fruit, cream or soy milk.

The tea shop is known for featuring seasonal blends like Cherry Blossom Green Tea, The Royal Blue, Peachy Lichee, Shanghai Lichee Jasmine and Nerola Orange Oolong. Tango Mango, Vanilla Sky, Green Lantern, Brazilian Coconut, Lavender Lemonade and Pomegranate Hibiscus are top picks in the summer.

The best part about tea? It provides a number of health benefits. There are a number of caffeine-free herbal teas — infused with flavors like peppermint, ginger, spearmint, lavender, lemongrass and rose petals — with medicinal properties to relax and soothe your mind and body.

The tea shop also offers unfermented green tea, which contain powerful antioxidants.

Rooibos, meaning “red bush,” is a caffeine-free herbal tea native to South Africa. It boasts beneficial properties like zinc, iron, calcium, magnesium, fluoride

36 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Food and Drink

Celebrating Our 27th Year!

2. Little Leaf Tea 6011 N. Palm Ave. (559) 261-2699 littleleaftea.com

3. Starbucks Multiple locations starbucks.com

Thai Restaurant

1 The Thai House 1069 E. Shaw Ave. (559) 221-7245 thaihousefresno.com Located near Fashion Fair Mall, The Thai House has been a staple in the community since the early 1980s with its mouth-watering dishes crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients. It was voted as the best Asian restaurant by the California Restaurant Association for three years.

“It was the first Thai restaurant in the Central Valley,” says K.P. Phimmasone, general manager at The Thai House.

His sister-in-law, Konny Phimmasone, is the mastermind behind the menu. The menu includes authentic delicacies of Thailand, including fried won tons, steamed mussels, Kung Pao Chicken, pad see ew (stir-fry noodles) and garlic chicken, beef and pork.

“We try to be as authentic as possible,” Phimmasone says.

He says the most popular plate is garlic pork ribs, marinated with yellow curry and served with homemade chili sauce. If you’re new to Thai cuisine, Phimmasone recommends ordering the No. 4 from the Thai House Plate Specials.

It includes pad thai, garlic chicken and steamed rice. Pad thai, he says, is a wellknown dish in Thailand. It consists of small rice noodles, egg, shrimp, green onions, bean sprouts and ground peanuts.

The Thai House is open seven days a week, closing at 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights.

2. Pad Thai Restaurant 198 Shaw Ave., Clovis (559) 324-1235

Wedding Cake

1 Eddie’s Bakery Cafe 7089 N. Cedar Ave. (559) 323-0900 eddiesbakerycafe.com Eddie’s Bakery Cafe has developed a reputation for serving an array of bakery and cafe menu items — it was only a matter of time before the local spot became a magnet for the affianced, as well.

After fielding an influx of wedding cake requests over the years, the business recently designated a special department to the important occasion, providing couples with expert care and direction when it comes to creating custom wedding cakes that are perfect.

“We take at least an hour with each customer to discuss their ideas,” says manager Sophia Myers. “We try to figure out when and where they’re having it — that has an impact on the cake — guest counts and the theme and feel they’re going for that day. We have our wedding consultation room that we redid here and there last year; it’s more spacious and has an easier flow so you can better see the cakes we have on display in the room.”

Just last year, Eddie’s Bakery Cafe averaged about 10 wedding orders a weekend, stretching the staff’s talents with a selection of its cake flavors, fillings, icings and other special touches for couples to choose from.

Myers points to its champagne custard and pink champagne cake as a popular combination because of its signature soft, moist texture and delicate sweetness. But also notes that the world of Pinterest has broadened the possibilities for modern brides and grooms.

Last year’s rustic, back-to-basics creations have been swapped out for more feminine masterpieces: ruffles, soft colors and demure cakes with striking floral or broach-like accents.

“Our brides are also downsizing cakes and going for dessert tables,” Myers says.

“Most of the mini dessert items we don’t carry on a daily basis. We have tea-sized sweets so it’s nice when you see them arranged — it’s absolutely beautiful.”

Mario H. Gonzalez, M.D., FACS, is Board Certified in Venous Lymphatic Medicine, dealing in vein disease.

He has been in medical practice as a Board Certified General Surgeon since 1989. Dr. Gonzalez is also bilingual.

Before

Experience & Knowledge When seeking treatment for your vein problems, you need the comfort of knowing that your doctor is fully trained and has been Board Certified in Phlebology (the diagnosis and management of varicose veins and other vein problems).

Elmore Medical was the first, and is still the only medical practice in the Central Valley specializing exclusively in Vein Disease. When it comes to your health, you deserve the most current and skilled care available.

After

Before After

Treatments • Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) • Treatment of Leg Spider Veins • Duplex Ultrasound Imaging (in office) • Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy • Treatment of Spider Veins on Face & Body • Vein Treatment on Hands and Feet • Ambulatory Phlebectomy

Your Best Health When it comes to your health care, you need the very best. We understand how important it is to have healthy, active legs. We know having attractive legs may also be an important part of your lifestyle. We have created a unique facility, not only dedicated to the care and treatment of patients with painful, unsightly spider veins and bulging varicose veins, but also skin problems associated with vein disease. You may be unaware that breakdown of the skin, which causes swelling, discoloration and even ulcers, can be associated with vein disease.

Skin Changes

Redness/Swelling

0002890731-01

and polyphenols. And, of course, the tea shop has several flavors of rooibos.

2. Frosted Cakery 1292 N. Wishon Ave. (559) 917-8880 frostedcakery.com

padthaiclovis.com

3. Thai Country Restaurant 151 W. Bullard Ave., Clovis (559) 298-6697 thaicountry.us

3. La Boulangerie French Bakery & Cafe 730 W. Shaw Ave. (559) 222-0555 laboufresno.com

Elmore Medical 559.435.0717

7131 N. 11th Street, Suite 101 - Fresno, CA 93720

Se Habla Español | elmoremedical.com

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Health and Fitness

Athletic Club

1 Gb3 Multiple locations gb3clubs.com According to national trends, those who made New Year’s resolutions and signed up for gym memberships have stopped showing up for their workouts by now. But those attrition rates don’t seem to apply to members of Gb3, says owner George Brown.

“We have very little dropoff,” he says, “a lot of people keep coming to our gym because our rates are really low and we let people freeze their membership; the member is in control.”

Gb3 locations also have more equipment — from cardio machines like treadmills and ellipticals to circuit machines — than other area gyms. Functional training areas have been added to two of the clubs, allowing members to do CrossFit-style training with pulleys, balls, ropes and climbing apparatuses.

Plus, members can use any of the five sports clubs spread throughout Fresno and Clovis, and will soon have access to a sixth location, the Gb3 Super Club at Champlain Drive and Shepherd Avenue.

The 50,000-square-foot club is under construction on 6 acres and is scheduled to open this fall.

“It will have more of everything,” Brown says. “It will have a pool, a huge daycare with a threelevel space maze, a first-class locker room and the gym will be equipped with the latest and greatest everything.”

The Super Club will also have

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

37

People’s Choice 500 parking spaces and be open 24 hours. It will boast seven complete lines of circuit equipment from different manufacturers, allowing members to find exactly the right fit for their body type and desired exercise.

“Some machines are more comfortable for some people, while other people find a different brand more comfortable,” Brown explains. “Each has different angles and different leverage. The other advantage of having so much equipment is you don’t get bored. You can work the same muscles, but use different machines.”

2. Fitness Evolution Multiple locations fitnessevolution.com

3. Fort Washington Fitness 9471 N. Fort Washington Road (559) 434-0700

ATHLETIC CLUB: Gb3 Trainer Nate Achelpohl provides personal training to Sarah Babcock as she works out.

fwfgym.com

Diet Headquarters

1

LOVE YOUR LEGS & FACE AGAIN % ForMICRODERMABRASIONS First Time Clients.

50

Weight Watchers 7859 N. Blackstone Ave. 393 W. Shaw Ave., Suite A10, Clovis (800) 516-3535

OFF

• Bridal and Special Occasion • Chemical & Hyperpigmentation

weightwatchers.com/us What Jean Nidetch started in the early ’60s by inviting friends into her Queens home once a week to discuss how to lose weight has blossomed into a millionsstrong Weight Watchers membership and a constantly evolving business.

“We’re continuously adapting to the needs of our members and society as a whole by using scientifically based strategies to help people lead healthier lives,” says Shannon Torres, territory manager for the Central Coast and Central Valley.

All Weight Watchers employees are members themselves, including Torres, who has lost 60 pounds with the program. On average, members lose up to 2 pounds per week while attending weekly meetings and keeping track of their meals daily.

Local meetings take place in Fresno, Clovis, Madera, Visalia, Hanford, Porterville, Kingsburg and Selma, but an online option is available, as well.

“We encourage members to go to the

• Waxing • Eyelash Extensions • Diamond Grade • Skinceuticals/Jane Iredale

Serving Central California for over 30 Years

Gift Certificates Available Julie Montague-Osburn, L.E.

38 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Health and Fitness meetings because the support and guidance there is like no other,” Torres says.

“We have a caring, empathetic staff who work to create a safe environment where we can all share, relate and support each other. It’s about community building.”

Weight Watchers also provides an app for members to track their food intake and exercise. A program called Connect is “like Facebook for Weight Watchers members to reach out, share recipes and, if they’re having a hard time, the community lifts them up,” Torres says. “We want to be available to our members 24/7.”

New campaigns are launched annually to follow advancements in weight loss research, Torres says.

“This year, it’s Live Fully and Beyond The Scale, which take on that approach of looking at your mindset and what’s causing you to make those food choices,” she says. “It’s also a big push toward being fully healthy instead of looking just at the weight. Take that ‘me’ time; if you don’t take care of yourself, no one else is going to do it for you.”

Members still count points, but the PointsPlus system has been converted to SmartPoints, which highlights the benefits of protein as something that sustains for a longer period of time. It also addresses sugar and saturated fat intake, Torres says. “Our members, within the first two months, lose 15 percent more weight than in previous programs.”

2. GNC Multiple locations gnc.com

3. Vitamin Shoppe Multiple locations vitaminshoppe.com

Drugstore

People’s Choice 3. Eye Medical Center 1360 E. Herndon Ave., Suite 301, Fresno 1122 S St., Fresno (559) 486-5000

Hospital

1 Clovis Community Medical Center 2755 Herndon Ave., Clovis (559) 324-4000 HOSPITAL: Clovis Community Medical Center is the People’s Choice winner because of its top-quality facilities, doctors and care. macy retail industry.

It was the first national pharmacy chain to remove cigarettes and tobacco products from its shelves — a move made in September 2014. It was also the first national pharmacy retailer to offer a loyalty program. CVS saves its customers money by rewarding them for purchases and offering exclusive discounts using the ExtraCare card. With more than 70 million members, the ExtraCare loyalty program is now the largest retail savings and rewards program of all drugstores.

“We understand that our customers want convenient and personalized access to products that support their health and well-being,” Awais says. “From offering access to personal deals and savings with the CVS Pharmacy mobile app and ExtraCare Rewards program ... to our latest shopping conveniences like CVS Curbside and CVS Pay, we are truly committed to creating an innovative retail experience that delivers value for all our customers.”

1

2. Walgreens Multiple locations

CVS Multiple locations

walgreens.com

cvs.com CVS is not just a winner among Valley voters, it’s also America’s leading retail pharmacy with more than 9,600 stores nationwide. Its pharmacies serve more than 5 million customers daily.

“Creating the ultimate customer experience through personalization and innovation is something the entire CVS Pharmacy organization is aligned on and committed to,” says Jose Awais, assistant vice president of CVS Pharmacy.

The first CVS store, selling health and beauty products, was founded in Lowell, Massachusetts, in 1963; CVS stands for Consumer Value Stores. Since then, it has been a leader and innovator in the phar-

3. Rite Aid Multiple locations riteaid.com

Eye Care Group

1 Fogg, Maxwell, Lanier & Remington EyeCare Multiple locations (559) 449-5010 eyecarefresno.com For local patients who seek improved and restored vision, many turn to Fogg, Maxwell, Lanier & Remington EyeCare.

The group has kept pace with rapid development of new eyecare techniques and advanced technologies that have revolutionized eye surgery, says spokeswoman Pattie Turnbull.

“Our surgeons are well-versed in the use of lasers, microsurgical instruments and other leading-edge technologies,” she says.

Fogg, Maxwell, Lanier & Remington EyeCare was established in 1980 and serves the Valley with five locations, including two in Fresno, one in Clovis, one in Madera and one in Oakhurst. Each doctor in the practice has his or her specialty, providing a wide range of options for patients.

Dr. Steven Fogg, son of Dr. Gary Fogg, who was a founding partner, has focused his interest in adult eye care and treats diseases of the aging eye, as well as general eye care health, Turnbull says.

“Dr. Andrew Maxwell is one of the country’s innovators in refractive surgery and is a leading investigator of intraocular lens implants for cataract surgeries, as well as general eye care health,” she continues. “Dr. Andrea Lanier is one of the few fellowship-trained, board-certified members of the American Association of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus in the Central Valley. Dr. Rodney Remington is a glaucoma specialist, focusing his practice on the medical, surgical and laser treatment of glaucoma, as well as cataract and general eye care health.”

The practice also includes seven optometrists and ophthalmologist Dr. Daniel Prescott, a retina specialist.

2. Eye Q Vision Care Multiple locations (559) 486-2000 eyeqvc.com

communitymedical.org Clovis Community is transforming how patients experience health care, says its CEO Craig Castro. From private rooms and state-of-the-art surgical suites to fine dining and serene landscaping, every detail of Clovis Community has been designed with the patient in mind, he says.

“While every award makes us proud, the No. 1 reason we strive every day to be the best is for our patients,” Castro says.

“We have nearly 2,500 talented physicians, employees and volunteers who come together and provide exceptional patient care every day.”

Clovis Community opened at its current location at Herndon and Temperance avenues in 1988 and the Clovis Outpatient Care Center, one of the busiest outpatient surgery centers in the area, was built in 2002. To meet the area’s growth, Clovis Community underwent a $300 million expansion and renovation in 2008, nearly doubling its capacity to 208 private rooms.

Clovis Community is home to premier programs such as the Marjorie E. Radin Breast Care Center, which set a new standard for care of breast health with advanced technology and medical leaders offering screenings, diagnostics and treatments.

The Leon S. & Pete P. Peters Future Generations Center, Clovis Weight-Loss Surgery Center and Dedicated Endoscopy Center also draw patients to Clovis from all over the Valley.

Each year, the hospital treats more than 60,000 patients in its emergency department and delivers more than 5,000 babies in its labor and delivery unit.

The food at Clovis Community Medical Center is fantastic as well. The Grove Cafe boasts a top Yelp rating and has a growing community following.

2. Saint Agnes Medical Center 1303 E. Herndon Ave. (559) 450-3000 samc.com

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

¢

Health and Fitness

Joanne Bazarian of Perfect Balance Yoga teaches, while Dorothy Bazarian looks on.

Women’s Fitness Center

1 Gb3 Multiple locations gb3clubs.com Gb3, the People’s Choice in our Athletic Club category, is also the top pick for Women’s Fitness Center because of its low-key environment, says owner George Brown.

“Some women who have only been to a ladies-only gym will come in and you can see they’re kind of nervous,” he says.

“But after about a week you look at them and they’re so comfortable. Our members are men and women of all ages. There are ladies in their 80s coming in every day. People are just doing their own thing; you don’t feel like anyone is watching you.”

Many women tend to gravitate toward group workouts, and Gb3 has kept up with the trend by offering the latest classes, such as HIIT, High Fitness and PiYo. Zumba, spin, yoga and Pilates classes have a huge following, as well. Classes are included in the price of membership and can be taken at any of the current five sports clubs — with a sixth planned to open by October.

Classes are held in expansive rooms with spring-loaded hardwood floors that provide extra cushioning for joints.

“It’s the best floor you can get,” Brown says. “It’s a hardwood floor, but there are different layers and springs underneath

it; it’s good for your body.”

About 90 percent of the machines and equipment in Gb3 sports clubs are adjustable, so women can adapt them to their bodies and desired workout, Brown says. All members also receive three free personal training sessions to get them off to a good start based on their goals, needs and medical history.

“There’s no cookie-cutter workout. We make a custom program for them and every six weeks we offer a follow up,” he says.

Many of Gb3’s machines have Bluetooth capabilities to transmit data to free apps on members’ smartphones, allowing them to track their workouts and chart their progress.

“You can also hold your phone up to a machine and a free app will show you how to use the machine,” Brown says.

and Joanne Bazarian ditched their corporate jobs to open a studio in central Fresno where people of all ages and fitness levels could share their adoration for the practice.

The studio hosts a dozen instructors, and a few more on-call, who lead a plethora of yoga classes. There’s something here for everyone, Bazarian says.

“If you don’t have balance, or you’re older, Gentle Yoga is a good place for you,” she says. “If you need healing, Restorative Yoga is the place for you. If you want a kick-your-butt workout, you have Gio’s Yoga and Abdominals class or Heated Vinyasa.”

A Back To Basics series has been ongoing since the studio opened, offering an in-depth practice of the hows and whys of traditional yoga poses for newbies and practiced yogis alike.

“We want to make yoga affordable and accessible to everybody; it doesn’t matter what your body shape is or whether you have new or old injuries,” Bazarian says.

“We want to make it accessible to someone who needs slower practice or really intense ashtanga yoga.”

The heated vinyasa class, where the indoor temperature is raised to about 90 degrees, has a huge following, but it

seems the closest friendships are formed in the gentle class, popular with seniors, Bazarian says.

“Older people discover yoga because they’re not feeling flexible or strong and you watch them transform their bodies,” she says. “They’ve formed a community.

We send ‘get well’ cards to those who are out of class for surgery. A couple in their 70s had their first dates in the yoga studio and when they were going to get married, we threw them a ‘yogagement’ party.”

Pivirotto and Bazarian say they’re always thinking about how to best serve the growing yogi population in Fresno.

2. Blue Moon Yoga 1144 E. Champlain Drive, Suite 104 (559) 434-2469 bluemoonyogafresno.com

3. Coil Yoga 292 W. Shaw Ave. (559) 353-2336 coilyoga.com

CELEBRATING 30 YE ARS OF BEING IN BU SINE S S! BEST ALTERATIONS

2. Curves for Women Multiple locations curves.com

3. Rhonda’s Fitness 686 E. Bullard Ave., Suite 102 (559) 431-3600 rhofit.com

Yoga Studio

1 Perfect Balance Yoga 5091 N. Fresno St., Suite 133 (559) 222-6212 pbyoga.com Perfect Balance Yoga was born 15 years ago from a husband and wife’s love of practicing yoga. Giovanni Pivirotto

SEW-N-SO FRE SNO

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

#1

1418 W. SHAW AVE. 559-227-2397 6751 N. BLACKSTONE AVE. #106 559-432-3465 1785 HERNDON AVE. #106 559-297-9271 429 N VAN NESS AVE. 559-355-6434

WE PROVIDE QUALITY WORK

0002925872-01

healthy.kaiserpermanente.org

39

People’s Choice

YOGA STUDIO:

3. Kaiser Permanente Medical Center Multiple locations

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

40 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Local People and Places

People’s Choice Track and field club runs toward total victory

Ron Murray — founder of the Jets Track and Field Club — was lying in a hospital bed for four years as he recovered from heart surgery.

He recalled that the fathers of two athletes he had trained wanted him to start a youth track club.

Murray had been reluctant when Phillip Green and Jerome Johnson first approached him. But, a hospital bed changed his perspective. “I realized that life is short, and I had to make up my mind what I was passionate about and do it,” he says.

Murray founded the Jets, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, in 2014 and is assisted by a staff of eight coaches. The mission of the club is to advance the total development of studentathletes through the sport of track and field. While the program provides competition training and competitive opportunities for youth athletes, it also emphasizes the importance of education, healthy eating habits and community involvement.

The club began with 10 athletes, but the number grew to 120 in 2016. It’s open to boys and girls ages 6 to 18. Students must have at least a 2.75 grade point average to participate. Most are in elementary or middle school. Track practices begin in January, and meets are held from March to July.

In 2016, 12 club members earned All-American honors at the National Junior Olympics, and 32 members finished in the Top 25 nationally.

Murray, 44, ran track in high school, in the U.S. Army and at Fresno State, where he also played football. “I tell my athletes and my parents that I love coaching because if I teach your brain how your body works, then your brain can train your body to perform,” he says.

The club’s website is jetstrack.org.

Central Valley Health will be distributed to our full Saturday circulation — reaching 217,000 readers!

Join us as we explore health in our Valley.

Within the pages of Central Valley Health magazine, readers will find compelling topics regarding both the medical and physical fitness aspects of our health; all with a local perspective.

This high-interest, high-quality magazine will be distributed to our full Saturday circulations, reaching over 217,000 readers.

•Your display advertising message featured in 67,000 magazines •Includes Saturday distribution within The Fresno Bee

To advertise, call your sales representative

or call (559) 441-6278

JETS TRACK AND FIELD CLUB: The mission of the club is to advance the total development of student athletes, including education, healthy eating habits and community involvement.

Surrounding You With

Warmth & Comfort All Year Long Voted #1 in Air Conditioning and Heating Repair

Thank You

•Glossy magazine-style format •You will find articles and information appealing to a local audience 24/7 Emergency Service Available

559-255-1644

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

41

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Local People and Places

Company to Work For

1 Granville Homes Multiple locations gvhomes.com The owners of Granville Homes, the Assemi famly, have created a strong company culture through their ethical business practices and clear concern and appreciation for each and every employee. They truly care about their staff and do everything within their power to ensure the staff is taken care of.

“Granville’s dedication to our community is contagious, and that enthusiasm carries over to all of our employees,” said one sales member. “It is incredibly rewarding to work for a company that can show frequent, tangible results of their community outreach efforts.”

Beyond that, Granville offers a generous benefits package that includes full insurance, a 401(k) program, education compensation, child care compensation and much more. It also offers additional benefits such as catered lunch several times a week, fresh and healthy snacks daily and the opportunity to participate in various community events year round. Plus, the company is dog-friendly, and nothing improves morale like having puppies running around the office.

Employees donate to various causes they are passionate about, whether it is by financial donation or volunteering their time to

People’s Choice

LOCAL RADIO PERSONALITY/TEAM: Jody Jo Mize and Gnarley Charley make up the team voted a People’s Choice favorite. Listen to them weekday mornings on KISS Country.

nonprofit organizations that provide access to food, shelter, healthcare and education for people in need.

Granville Homes periodically offers a free homebuyer seminar to folks interested in learning about the pros and cons of home ownership. Dates, times and locations of the seminar are available on the company website.

2. Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino 711 Lucky Lane, Coarsegold (866) 794-6946 chukchansigold.com

3. Guarantee Real Estate Multiple locations guarantee.com

Local Radio Personality/Team

1

Fitzgerald adds. “We then turn into two dogs running down an alley knocking over trash cans.”

The pair have been co-hosting KISS Country’s morning show since 2010 — a dream Mize says both have been harboring since she was a teenager.

Mize and Fitzgerald both grew up in the Central Valley, and use that same comfortable relationship the two have established with one another with their listeners.

“We can talk about local things, and it’s all so familiar because we’ve lived here most of our lives,” Mize says, before Fitzgerald adds his input. “They feel like they can chime in.”

“When we’re out in public they’ll say, ‘Hey, Jody. Where’s Charley?’ And I’ll say, ‘Where’s the nearest bar?’ ” The style of their morning show is to let it all hang out: personal is better and is a nice forum to build and discuss topics as stories.

“You know our family’s names, kid’s names, pet’s names,” Mize says. “We love knowing that we connect with everyone

— not just talk to them, but have a relationship with them.

“We are doing what we aim to do: make a bazillion friends. It’s nice to know that they reciprocate that.”

You can catch Mize and Fitzgerald out and about town on a weekly basis, whether it be at a new business opening, working as emcees for a fundraising event or giving voice to a local cause like Valley Children’s Hospital, American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women campaign or Pink Heals.

The KISS Country team is also hoping to earn a nomination at this year’s Academy of Country Music Awards, with plans to broadcast at the event in Las Vegas in April.

“I can’t see myself doing a morning show without Charley,” Mize says. “I feel the same way,” Fitzgerald says. “We’ve reached the point where we’re symbiotic.

Jody is my parasite partner. She can bring it back where it needs to be.”

2. Skippy New Rock 104.1 FM 3. Greg & Dre Q97.1 FM q97.com

Sportscaster

1 Tommy Tran KFSN, ABC TV30 abc30.com It’s a hat-trick for ABC 30’s sports director, Tommy Tran. And if you’re not familiar with the term, well, Tran wouldn’t hold it against you — being a sports snob isn’t his style.

“My news director and manager give me a lot of freedom and flexibility to be myself,” he says. “I have this mentality and approach that when I present sports,

Jody Jo & Gnarley Charley KISS Country 93.7 FM ksks.com Judy. Garland’s. Remains. Jumping on the phone with 93.7 KISS Country’s popular radio personality duo, Jody Jo Mize and “Gnarley” Charley Fitzgerald, the two did what they do best, immediately jiving on a riff about news of the late actress’ remains being moved from New York to L.A. with an ease and familiarity that can only come from years of practice.

“We play well off of each other. I always know when he’s going to say something dumb because he smirks like he is now,” Mize explains.

“And I have freedom because Jody Jo will say ‘hey.’ The audience is more forgiving because Jody told me stop it,”

49th Anniversary 2017

Thank You For Voting Us

#1

Pressed For Time?

We do pickup, delivery and 24 hour service!

Dry Cleaner jonescleaning.com

7280 N Remington Ave (559) 431-6892 Drive-through

2089 W Shaw Ave (559) 229 -1896

• Dry Cleaning • Laundry • Carpet • Drapes • Shades • Tile • Carpet • Area Rugs

0002924396-01

42 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Local People and Places it’s like someone is setting next to me on the couch or in a bar. It’s all very informal and basic.”

This is the third year Tran has been voted favorite sportscaster by readers, making for a nice way to mark his seventh year with ABC 30.

The journalist has worn many hats in his career, starting out as a news reporter and still filling in at the anchor’s desk from time to time.

He enjoys a bit of variety because it allows him to integrate different elements into his sports segments.

“I diversify in how I look at and cover things,” Tran says. “I’m not afraid to bring pop culture and politics into sports.”

That diversity extends to the region’s wide range of athletics year round, including Fresno State football, Clovis Rodeo, Fresno Grizzlies and Clovis and Buchanan high schools’ intense wrestling rivalry.

Tran also conducts a weekly segment with Oakland Raiders’ quarterback and Fresno State alum, Derek Carr, and has given ABC 30 viewers — and the sports director himself — a unique look at the Raiders’ breakout season before Carr’s injury toward the end of 2016.

He takes great pride in being acces-

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

43

People’s Choice

sible to the public through social media platforms, regularly receiving photos of viewers’ kids at soccer games and using the medium to stay connected to viewers on a more personal level.

“It’s hard for people to stick around for sports, so I don’t take that for granted at all. I appreciate those that stick around and watch,” Tran says. “I work for a great station and for people to do that [vote] means a lot. It’s means I’m doing my job, and continue to make sure that I put in everything I can.”

2. Ralph Wood KMPH, FOX TV26 kmph-kfre.com

3. Paul Loeffler 940 ESPN 940espnfresno.com

Television Anchor

1 Kopi Sotiropulos KMPH, FOX TV26 kmph-kfre.com

WEATHERCASTER AND TELEVISION ANCHOR: One People’s Choice Award isn’t enough for Kopi Sotiropulos, whose larger-than-life personality helped him take home wins for Television Anchor and Weathercaster.

Thank You For Voting Us No.1 – 9 Years In A Row!

2017 2009 – 2017

A clean you can trust.

mollymaid.com 559-225-4387

44 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Local People and Places Kopi Sotiropulos is not sure why voters continue to honor him with People’s Choice Awards each year — but that doesn’t make the recognition any less humbling.

The longtime TV anchor has such a following he’s known simply by his first name to most viewers. His trademarks?

Hawaiian shirts, colorful ties and a larger-than-life personality.

He has spent his entire career with KMPH, first as a copywriter and then — after a 10-year hiatus flexing his acting chops in Hollywood — returned to the station as a weathercaster in 1992.

(Check out Kopi’s acting skills in “Beverly Hills Cop II,” “Private Benjamin” and “The Postman Always Rings Twice.” ) In 2003, he joined the “Great Day” morning show, and the rest, as they say, is history.

The key to his success: treating the viewers as friends.

“You have to be able to communicate with the viewer and make them feel like they’re important, whether it is serious or lighthearted,” Sotiropulos says.

“We treat them like you’re their friend and vice versa because you come into their home every morning. So when they see you out and about, they feel comfortable coming up and talking to you.”

He credits each of the “Great Day” reporters and co-anchor, Kim Stephens, with bringing a special amount of energy, fun and a sense of gravity to the KMPH FOX 26 morning show.

Every story is a group effort, he explains, and all of the team’s combined talent and work is what makes viewers want to tune in day after day.

Sotiropulos also enjoys meeting people in the community while on the job.

Whether it’s out filming “Great Day” faces, shooting the intro for his weather segment’s 10-day forecast or acting as the emcee for various fundraisers, special events or school functions — being a part of the fabric of the community is one of the great joys of the TV anchor’s life.

“I grew up here from when I was 31⁄2 years old, so this is home,” Sotiropulos says.

“It’s nice to have fun and do what I can in the community to help out.”

2. Warren Armstrong KFSN, ABC TV30 abc30.com

3. Graciela Moreno KFSN, ABC TV30 abc30.com

People’s Choice Weathercaster

1 Kopi Sotiropulos KMPH, FOX TV26 kmph-kfre.com People have access to the day’s weather forecast from the convenience of their smart devices now, and Kopi Sotiropulos is A-OK with that — he’s still going to do what he’s been doing at KMPH FOX 26 since 1992: share the weather with its viewers.

“You’re going to give them the information that you have. And if they choose to watch it on our station, we’re there,” he says.

The “Great Day” host and well-known face in the community had to learn weather terminology and basic meteorology know-how in a short period before officially going on air as the station’s weathercaster, attributing the trajectory of his career since then to the people around him and a lot of luck.

Plus, Fresno’s Mediterranean climate makes Sotiropulos’ work somewhat predictable, allowing Kopi to be Kopi.

“It’s very conversational. I deliver it in a way that I understand it and the viewer understands it. I don’t use too technical of terminology,” he says. “I get in there and have fun with it — for the viewers and us, too.”

Sotiropulos’ also incorporates the community for his 10-day forecasts, allowing the news station to highlight schools, organizations and clubs.

And receiving another People’s Choice Award in this category is just a bonus for what he describes as an unbelievable gig.

“I’ve been blessed to be in this business for so long,” Sotiropulos says. “I’m very thankful to be working at FOX 26 all these years and with a great crew behind and in front of the scenes.”

2. Kevin Musso KFSN, ABC TV30 abc30.com

3. AJ Fox KSEE, NBC TV24 yourcentralvalley.com

YOSEMITE AREA REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM: Why drive when you can take the bus to one of America’s most beautiful places?

Relax with a bus trip to Yosemite Last year, a record 5.2 million visitors passed through the gates of Yosemite National Park. If you were one of them, there’s a good chance you arrived by car. A growing number of Yosemite visitors, however, are discovering the ease and convenience of Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System, or YARTS. The bus service, managed by the Merced County Association of Governments, has been providing public transportation between Merced and Yosemite since 2000; it added service from Fresno to the park entrance accessed via Highway 41 in 2015. Providing a public transportation option from the Central Valley is crucial to keeping the park accessible to all who want to enjoy it, says YARTS transit manager Dick Whittington.

The benefits of taking the bus are many — in addition to the convenience of not having to drive your own vehicle, it can provide savings for some riders. A round-trip ticket from Fresno to the Yosemite Valley costs $30 ($20 for seniors; children under 12 ride free with a paid adult fare) — but the park’s gate fee, which is waived for YARTS passengers, ranges from $25 to $35, depending on the season.

YARTS is also an Amtrak Thruway and Greyhound Interline provider.

Visitors are able to purchase tickets to Yosemite on the YARTS website or through Amtrak or Greyhound and transfer to a YARTS bus at Fresno’s Amtrak/Greyhound station. “The same ticket will take you into the park,” says Whittington.

“We don’t want to love Yosemite to death,” he says. “It’s a gorgeous, special place and we have to take care of it. Please be a good steward and pick an alternate way to get here.”

Besides, he adds, riding the bus can be a relaxing and inspiring way to begin your vacation: “When you’re freed of that steering wheel, you just see things you’ve never seen before. It’s a whole different trip.”

Details: www.yarts.com

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

0002879898-01

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

45

46 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

People’s Choice

Air Conditioning /Heating Repair

1 Donald P. Dick Air Conditioning 1444 N. Whitney Ave. (559) 400-8929 mrcool4ac.com During Fresno’s blazing hot

summers and frosty winters, the last thing you want to worry about is your air conditioning or heating system failing. But if it does, plenty of people rely on Donald P. Dick Air Conditioning to save the day.

The company specializes in repairing air conditioning and heating units, as well as maintaining the machines before they break down. Donald P. Dick offers a Super Saver agreement for businesses and homes, for which a service technician will complete regular maintenance on heating and air conditioning systems in the spring and fall.

The local and family-owned business has been helping customers in the Valley since 1970, says co-owner Jeff Dick, whose father, Donald P. Dick, started the company as a contractor installing air conditioning in new homes.

Over nearly half a century, the company has been managed by three generations of the family. Its current construction managers are Dick’s nephews, David

Dick and Nick Scott.

The business has evolved to include repair work and, for the last decade, the installation of solar panels.

“All of our technicians and installers are factory trained and we keep on top of all the latest trends and improvements in the industry,” Dick says.

2. Vern’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning 3505 W. Ashlan Ave. (559) 228-8376 vernsplumbing.net

3. Allbritten 2705 N. Larkin Ave. (559) 745-7020 allbritten.com

Alterations

1 Sew-N-So Multiple locations Family-owned Sew-N-So celebrated its 30th anniversary and the opening of its fourth location last year — a testament to

the Tran family’s quality of work and speed of service.

Ty Tran bought the first store at Shaw and Fruit avenues in 1986 when its original owner decided to sell the business.

“My dad was a tailor in Vietnam,” says Patrick Tran, who opened the second store at Blackstone and Herndon avenues in 2000. “When he first came to the United States, he made clothes for the Asian community here. When the opportunity came up to buy Sew-N-So … he bought it.”

Ty Tran taught his sons the business.

“We did custom sewing and alterations side-by-side,” Patrick says. “We slowly moved toward alterations because there was more demand for it.”

Patrick’s brother Hiep Tran opened the family’s third Sew-N-So near Herndon and Fowler avenues four years ago, and their other brother, Hoa Tran, opened the fourth shop last year at 1429 N. Van Ness Ave., north of the Tower District.

“All four stores do all types of alterations, from adult to kids clothing, men’s suits and prom dresses,” Patrick Tran said. “Our most popular is altering men’s pants for a more slim, European cut.”

Sew-N-So is also known for shortening jeans using the original hem, helping

0002880638-01

Services

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Services

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

47

People’s Choice

them keep a store-bought look.

“Our prices are very good and we get the clothes to fit right,” Tran says. “We have more locations to help more people, and our turnaround time is quick — a week or less.”

2. Gili Couture 1134 W. Shields Ave. (559) 229-0712 3. Alterations, Etc. 7412 N. Fresno St. (559) 438-7260

Animal Boarding

1 Elaine’s Pet Resorts 3912 N. Hayston Ave. (559) 227-5959 40373 Brickyard Drive, Madera (559) 432-5959 elainespetresorts.com It was Elaine Nestell’s lifelong dream to open a place where moms and dads of

furbabies would feel comfortable leaving their pets while they were away from home. Her dream came true in 1989 when the first resort was built on Hayston Avenue in Fresno, providing lodging for dogs and cats, along with daycare, training and grooming for dogs.

Elaine’s Pet Resorts, now with a second location near Madera Ranchos, is in its third generation as a family-owned and -operated business.

The resorts aren’t just a place to provide a bed and a meal for dogs and cats; the staff ensures that each pet is happy and engaged and receives personalized treatment.

“What really sets us apart is our customizable approach to each pet’s care, which includes interactive activity packages,” Nestell says. “In addition to overnight lodging, we also offer doggie day care, bathing, dog training and a drop off/pick up service for all of our guests.”

Pets taking medications and those with special dietary restrictions are welcome.

All pets must have current vaccinations.

Both locations have large, beach-front entry pools where dogs in daycare and boarding can splash and play, as well as shaded cabanas where they can rest. Play yards are fitted with canine turf and

ANIMAL BOARDING: Riff,

a Wrehaired Pointing Griffin, thinks Elaine’s Pet Resorts is paradise for a pooch like him.

48 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Thank you, Fresno Bee readers, for voting Wells Fargo ‘Best Bank’*

wellsfargo.com * Online poll, 2016, The Fresno Bee’s People Choice Awards 2017 © 2017 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. (2932201_19880)

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Services

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

49

People’s Choice

playgroups are organized by the size of the dog. Families can call the resort to check in on their pup or cat and they’ll also receive a report card when they return to pick up their furry companion.

2. Petsmart Multiple locations petsmart.com

3. Pet Medical Center & Spa 621 W. Fallbrook Ave. (559) 436-4444 petmedicalfresno.com

Auto Service Center

1 Michael Automotive 50 W. Bullard Ave., Suite 201, Fresno (559) 431-6000 michaelautomotive.com Michael Automotive Center is certified to service any Toyota, Chevrolet, Cadillac, Volkswagen and Scion and proves to be a one-stop destination for all vehicle maintenance needs.

Certified technicians can perform routine oil and filter changes, replace and rotate tires, perform wheel alignments, replace batteries, brake pads and shoes and much more.

Michael Cadillac’s service center values its customers’ time and offers door-todoor concierge service for everything from regular maintenance to repairs.

Your Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet or GMC will be picked up from your home or office, have the necessary service completed and then the vehicle will be returned to you.

Michael Automotive Center also offers 24-hour emergency towing and night drop for those involved in untimely accidents. The center’s state-of-the-art body shop and certified technicians will get vehicles back into their original shape while handling insurance negotiations with all auto insurance companies. Plus, there’s a rental car office on-site.

With convenient hours, including Saturdays, competitive parts and service pricing and advanced technology, Michael Automotive service centers takes the stress out of taking care of your car, truck or SUV.

2. Good Guys Multiple locations goodguys-tire.com

3. Pep Boys Multiple locations pepboys.com

Bank

1 Wells Fargo Bank Multiple locations wellsfargo.com Wells Fargo has been helping its clients meet their financial goals since 1852.

Founded in San Francisco, it provided Californians with the banking and express services that were popular at the time, including the buying and selling of gold.

Today, Wells Fargo offers an array of financial services, including checking and savings accounts, credit cards, loans, lines of credit and investment services.

Team members deliver personalized service to each customer, “uncovering their personal, professional and financial

needs, so we can help match our products and services to their needs,” says Sandy Raco, regional president for the Central Valley market.

Since its beginnings, innovation has been the name of the game. Last year, the bank, a longtime leader in online and mobile banking services, unveiled its redesigned mobile app that “enhances our full-service model and offers quicker authentication with touch ID on iPhones,” says Raco, adding that the feature will soon be available for the Android platform as well.

The improved app also features FICO credit score accessibility, the ability for customers to seamlessly connect with a banker without re-authenticating the device and a simpler and more intuitive layout.

Of course, the bank still offers traditional branches and ATMs. With 43 branches and 142 ATMs in the Central Valley, plus 24-hour phone and online access, it’s easy for customers to stay on top of their finances. Wells Fargo team members are ready to assist customers with all of their banking needs.

“We continue, each and every team member, [to] know and understand our vision and values,” says Raco.

50 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Services

People’s Choice

CAR WASH: Red Carpet Car Wash is a People’s Choice winner thanks to employees like

Daniela Vargas and Carlos Pacheco.

2. Chase Multiple locations chase.com

3. Bank of America Multiple locations bankofamerica.com

Car Wash

rior wash; interior vacuuming, dusting and wipe down; and hand drying. “The full-service car wash is definitely the most popular,” says Bowie.

Other services include auto detailing and smog checks. The main Blackstone Avenue location also sells fuel.

Frequent washers can purchase a Fast Pass or Golden Ticket, monthly memberships that allow for unlimited “good” or “best” washes at any of the company’s nine Red Carpet Car Wash and Ride and Shine locations. Golden Ticket members also receive a discount on gasoline purchased at the Blackstone Avenue location.

In light of the state’s recent drought, Red Carpet continues to make improvements to its water reclamation systems “to continue to lower the amount of water we use per vehicle,” says Bowie.

1

2. Surf Thru Express Multiple locations

Red Carpet Car Wash Multiple locations

surfthruexpress.com

redcarpetcarwash.com Red Carpet Car Wash has helped us keep our cars looking their best for more than 50 years.

The locally owned chain of full-service and express car washes opened its first location, on Blackstone Avenue, in 1965, says vice president Mike Bowie. Additional locations in Fresno and Clovis followed, and, in 2006, the company opened its first express wash under the Ride and Shine name.

“We’ve been fortunate to be able to remain a locally owned family business from day one,” Bowie says, “and our family still works in it every day. When you have family working in the business and people are paying attention, you can do it right.”

All full-service locations offer fullservice car washes that include an exte-

the AT&T Drive Mode, a free app that silences incoming text message alerts while you’re driving. It can be set up to automatically send all calls to voice mail and to send a customizable reply to incoming text messages when your vehicle is moving at more than 25 miles per hour.

2. Verizon Wireless Multiple locations verizonwireless.com

3. T-Mobile Multiple locations t-mobile.com

Closet and Garage Storage Organizers

1 California Closets 7638 N. Ingram Ave., Suite 107 (559) 398-0704 californiaclosets.com

Real Estate With Distinction

3. Jack’s Car Wash 8995 N. Cedar Ave. (559) 435-7335 6745 N. West Ave. (559) 438-8201 jackscarwash.com

Cellular Provider

1 AT&T Multiple locations att.com AT&T’s mission is to “connect people with their world, everywhere they live, work and play … and do it better than anyone else.”

The world’s largest communications company offers next-generation TV,

Thank you for your votes!

The first choice for your real estate needs.

With over 20 years combined experience, our team offers...

Superior Marketing, Negotiating and Service Top Producer

Cathy Freeman, Broker / Owner, GRI BRE # 01724853

559-246-4824 Direct

559-389-5896 Office

cathy@cfcorealty.com

www.cfcorealty.com

0002874861-01

Those values include investing in the community. Last year, she says, the bank gave more than $1.9 million to schools and nonprofits in the Central Valley market. In addition, each employee receives 16 hours of paid volunteer time per year.

“We see more and more of our team members continue to volunteer,” says Raco. “In 2015, our team members contributed almost 6,500 volunteer hours.”

high-speed internet and, yes, advanced mobile services to connect you to the world, whether you’re at home or on the go. Its LTE network covers 400 million people and businesses in North America.

AT&T also owns and operates more than 34,000 Wi-Fi hotspots around the world.

AT&T customers who bundle their services may find they get more bang for their buck and are eligible for special customer perks. For instance, cellular customers who also subscribe to AT&T’s DIRECTV or U-verse TV services can stream video via the DIRECTV or U-verse apps on the AT&T mobile wireless network — without going against their mobile data allotment.

With the myAT&T app, it’s easier than ever to manage your account and access services. Compatible with Android, iPhone and Windows phones, it can be used to make payments, schedule an appointment, purchase products and services and receive 24/7 customer support.

To date, AT&T has contributed more than $350 million to AT&T Aspire, its signature education initiative. The It Can Wait program has inspired more than 10 million people to sign a pledge vowing to never text and drive. It has introduced

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

¢

Services For nearly 40 years, California Closets has helped its customers turn their basic closets into customized storage and organization systems.

Founded by a college student in 1978, the small business has become a “premium- and luxury-space management” franchise that includes 120 showrooms throughout North America. The Fresno showroom serves the Central Valley, from south San Joaquin County to north of Sacramento.

California Closets can transform more than your closet. No space in your home is off limits. Whether it’s your garage, living room, bedroom or work space that needs a makeover, a skilled designer will work with you to find a solution that meets your needs.

After a visit to the Fresno showroom to view the systems, a designer will meet you at your home for a complimentary consultation.

Design materials are available in a variety of colors and finishes, including sustainable options. Products are manufactured using the finest materials and processes, and all systems come with a limited lifetime warranty.

California Closets Central Valley is proud of its community involvement.

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

People’s Choice Over the years it has worked with several charities and organizations, including “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital Dream Home Giveaway.

2. Storage Systems Inc. 2910 E. Heaton Ave. (559) 225-5313 garagesystems.com

3. Closets By Design 5531 E. Lamona Ave. (559) 453-7034 closetsbydesign.com

Cosmetic/Medical Spa

1 Mystique Medical Spa 7161 N. Howard St., Suite 101 (559) 447-5273 mystiquemedicalspa.com Mother Nature knows best, but if you’ve ever considered enhancing your natural beauty, Mystique Medical Spa can

help you get selfie-ready.

The medical spa is a leading provider of aesthetic services, including body contouring, laser hair and tattoo removal, chemical peels and injectable treatments (like Botox). Treatments are overseen by a licensed, on-site medical director.

During your initial complimentary consultation, a staff member will meet with you to discuss your skincare needs and goals, and recommend the most effective products and services, says practice administrator Barbara Krikorian.

“Our philosophy, too, is to educate patients,” she adds.

The most popular procedure, she says, is Botox Cosmetic — one of several injectable treatments offered at Mystique; others include Juvéderm XC, which smooths the laugh lines near the mouth and nose, and Kybella, which can reduces the appearance of a “double chin.”

Other popular procedures include chemical peels, hair removal, microdermabrasion and Latisse eyelash therapy.

“We don’t have any devices or technologies here unless myself or someone in my family actively uses it, we’re very strict about that,” says Krikorian.

If you have questions or are looking to save some money, she adds, consider

attending Mystique’s semi-annual spa night in March or September: “We have free food, free wine and all of our reps are here to answer any questions. It’s the only time of the year that everything we offer here is on sale. We don’t perform any procedures, it’s just an open house.”

2. Dr. Maziar Bidar 1360 E. Herndon Ave., Suite 301 (559) 449-5054 emcfresno.com/portfolio/maziar-bidar-m-d/

3. Body Del Sol 1648 E. Herndon Ave. (559) 432-7222 bodydelsol.com

Credit Union

1 Educational Employees Credit Union Multiple locations myeecu.org Educational Employees Credit Union

The community you’ve imagined…the care your loved one deserves.

Resident-centered care is the cornerstone of Oakmont’s Assisted Living and Memory Care Programs. Our highly experienced care team creates a personalized experience for our residents and peace of mind for their families.

5605 N Gates Ave Fresno, CA 93722

Personalized care plan • Beautiful and secure courtyard Medication management • Purposeful activity programs Nursing on-site 7 days a week • Diabetic Wellness Program

559-682-4533 oakmontoffresno.com RCFE #107206882

51

Tours Available Daily!

52 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Services has been helping its members attain a “strong and secure financial future” since 1934. Today, the largest locally based credit union in the San Joaquin Valley serves more than 261,000 members in 10 counties and has more than $2.7 billion in assets.

The credit union provides its members with affordable products and services to help them manage their personal finances. These include checking and savings accounts, credit cards, loans, Individual Retirement Accounts and certificate accounts.

Members are able to take advantage of 18 branches in the Central Valley, with the 19th soon to open in Sanger. Thanks to the credit union’s affiliation with the CO-OP ATM Network, they’re also able to use an extensive ATM network of more than 30,000 machines nationwide.

Because technology has changed the way we bank, EECU also offers mobile banking via its EECU Mobile App, available for Apple, Android and Kindle devices.

“You can pay a bill, deposit a check, transfer money, check your balance, accept loan offers and much more all from your mobile device. You just can’t beat that kind of convenience,” says

People’s Choice tion — we’re part of their community as well,” Dooley says. “That communityminded spirit helps us build lasting relationships that extend beyond the walls of our branches.”

2. Fresno County Federal Credit Union Multiple locations fresnocfcu.org

3. Golden 1 Multiple locations golden1.com

Day Spa DAY SPA: Enjoy peaceful tranquility in the Calliope Room at Muses Day Spa. Elizabeth Dooley, president and CEO. Members can also access account information via the credit union’s website, 24-hour automated Personal Telephone Access System and the Member Service Center.

As a locally based institution, EECU makes giving back to the community a

top priority. “It’s really important for us to give back to the communities we serve. We provide donations to many organizations, we sponsor numerous events and our employees are actively involved in local events, committees and boards. We want our members to know that we’re not just their financial institu-

1 Muses Day Spa and Salon 8525 N. Cedar Ave., Suite 101 (559) 441-0772 musesspa.com Sometimes you just need a spa day.

When that day comes, Muses Day Spa and Salon is ready to help you feel relaxed, rejuvenated and renewed.

“We offer massage, facials, waxing

Green thumbs W E L C O M E.

EXCEEDING THE

EXPECTATIONS

It’s in our roots to keep growing. To dig in and soak up all that this world has to offer.

At Fresno’s original continuing care retirement community, living life to the fullest comes naturally.

And the happy folks who call The Terraces at San Joaquin Gardens home not only embrace a life well lived, they create it.

Come by for a visit and find out for yourself.

Call 1-866-797-3535 to schedule your tour today.

OF AGING

Ann Rumbaugh, resident since 2010 and Sue Stoltenberg, resident since 2012

R E S I D E N T I A L L I V I N G | A S S I S T E D L I V I N G | M E M O R Y C A R E | S K I L L E D N U R S I N G | R E H A B I L I TAT I O N 5555 N. Fresno Street | Fresno, CA 93710 | ExperienceTSJG.com The Terraces at San Joaquin Gardens in Fresno, California, is managed by ABHOW, a California nonprofit public benefit corporation. ABHOW is a nonsectarian corporation, serving seniors through quality retirement housing since 1949. State of California License #100400544, #040000142. Certificate of Authority #297.

2017

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Services

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

53

People’s Choice not required, so they can keep up on anything that’s changing.”

2. The Spa at Fig Garden Village 680 W. Shaw Ave., Suite 101 (559) 229-9553 thespaatfgv.com

3. Spectrum Salon, Day Spa and Boutique 7020 N. West Ave. (559) 431-8243 spectrumdayspa.com

Dry Cleaners SIERRA SHOE REPAIR: Arsen Georgio Sheklian believes no

job is too small.

York Fashion Week.

“Do the best you can, and people will find you,” the elder Sheklian would say.

Sierra Shoe Repair — in the shopping center on the northwest corner of Blackstone and Sierra avenues — deals with custom leather repairs and creations for At Sierra Shoe Repair in Fresno, Arsen Georgio Sheklian customers from New York to Hawaii. Original creations are procarries on the tradition of carduced under the name Georgio’s ing for all manner of footwear and Son. and other leather products.

The elder Skeklian opened SierHe continues to re-glue heels ra Shoe Repair in Fresno in 1963. on nondescript footwear because his late father — George “Georgio” He was killed during a robbery of a nearby gun store in December Sheklian — believed no job was 2014. too small. Maybe a customer Arsen Sheklian — who is also a couldn’t afford a new pair of shoes, professional musician in Europe — he would say. has earned the title of Leather The younger Sheklian also reMaster Craftsman. “I’m a perfecpairs $1,000 Japanese shoes betionist, and it’s nice to have that longing to American customers.

The Fresno business got the repair validation,” he says.

The websites are sierrashoerecontract after creating a buzz with pair.com and georgiosandson.com. original leather creations at New

From New York Fashion Week to Fresno shoe repair shop

[and] we also do body treatments and nail care,” says manager Lindsay Coito.

Massage therapy is the most requested service, says Coito. The spa offers Swedish, deep tissue and prenatal massage, with sessions ranging from 30 to 90 minutes. “We customize everything to clients’ needs,” she says. “There are definitely clients who just come in who want to have a very relaxing day where they just relax [and] shut down, [but] we do have technicians here who work on athletes.

We have people here who do the prenatal massages. The experience you can get here is very customizable.”

Coito recommends the spa’s Signature Massage, “a 75-minute massage with hot

¢

stone work. It’s a good combination of everything, so you get a really nice treatment.”

Facials are another popular service.

Muses uses Image Skincare products in its peels and other facial treatments.

“We’ve been using Image now for a couple years and I think our clients really love it,” Coito says. “It’s a higher level; we call it the step between medical and spa.”

Muses therapists and estheticians are highly trained and continue to develop their skills through continuing education and training. “They stay very educated with the products,” Coito says. “All of our staff really prides themselves on taking continuing education, even when they’re

1 Jones Cleaning Centers 7280 N. Remington Ave. (559) 431-6892 2083 W. Shaw Ave. (559) 229-1896 jonescleaning.com Jones Cleaning Centers provides the highest level of dry cleaning for everything from everyday clothing to treasured items like wedding gowns, couture garments and fine linens.

Herb and Olive Jones opened the original location on West Shaw Avenue in 1968, which was purchased by Robin Kraemer in 1983. Two Fresno locations are still locally owned and operated.

“We do nothing but quality work. Herb and Olive built a business doing nothing but high-quality cleaning, spotting and finishing, and I’ve continued that tradition,” says Kraemer. “We are one of America’s Best Cleaners, which is an organization of high-quality cleaners throughout the world.”

The cleaner has even been entrusted with the stage costumes used by touring musical acts and theatrical productions that have stopped in Fresno, says Kraemer.

Under Kraemer’s leadership, Jones Cleaning Centers continues to evolve and lead the industry — the company is often among the first to adopt new environmentally and technologically innovative practices. It was the first in the Central Valley to convert to GreenEarth cleaning solvents, and to begin using eco-friendly System K4 products in 2011. In addition, it was the first dry cleaner in the world to adopt a RFID tracking system, Kraemer says.

The dry cleaner offers pick up and delivery service, and, at its Remington Avenue location, drive-thru service and a 24-hour self-serve kiosk. It has also implemented hanger recycling and credit programs — wire hangers can be re-

turned to the store for recycling, while black plastic hangers can be returned for a 25-cent credit.

Jones Cleaning Centers helped found, and continues to sponsor, the Valley’s Coats for Kids program. The nonprofit provides new coats to Valley children in need each winter. Each year, Jones Cleaning Centers collects and cleans thousands of coats before they’re distributed.

2. Crown Cleaners Multiple locations crowncleaners.net

3. Martinizing Dry Cleaners 1071 E. Champlain Drive (559) 433-9620

Employment Agency

1 Pridestaff 585 W. Nees Ave., Suite 101 (559) 432-2022 pridestaff.com/fresno With nearly 80 offices throughout the United States, PrideStaff serves more than 4,500 clients. And it all began in Fresno.

“Our corporate headquarters were founded here in 1978,” says strategic partner Sean Akin, and the Fresno office is still “No. 1.”

The staffing agency works with com-

DRY CLEANERS: Jones Cleaning

Centers, Inc. is the People’s Choice winner because of top-quality customer care from Melina Navarro, owner Robin Kraemer, Aaron Shamp, Desiree Ybarra, Anthony Contreras and Dustin Kraemer.

54 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

¢

Services

People’s Choice

panies and job seekers to fill employment vacancies in a variety of fields, including accounting, manufacturing, skilled trades and administration.

In 2016, Akin says, the Fresno office worked with 400 companies and more than 1,500 temporary, temporary-to-hire and direct hire candidates in the Fresno market.

Because PrideStaff sees its candidates as clients, the company is invested in ensuring candidate and company are a good match, Akin says. In addition, “we offer all of our candidates training on a wide variety of things from computer software to resume building to just general data about the market.”

After breaking in to the administrative market last year, Akin says, PrideStaff is anticipating a higher demand for skilled tradesmen — welders, machinists, maintenance mechanics and machine operators. “I think we have a gap with blue collar workers in the new work force coming in so skilled trades are going to be heavily recruited,” he says.

“PrideStaff is here to help the candidates get jobs,” he continues. “It’s an honor to win this because Fresno means so much to PrideStaff.”

2. Denham Resources 567 W. Shaw Ave., Suite C1 (559) 222-5284 3. Hire Up Staffing Multiple locations (559) 579-1331 hireupss.com

Hair Salon

1 Spectrum Salon, Day Spa and Barber Shop 7020 N. West Ave. (559) 431-8243 spectrumdayspa.com The name Spectrum has a long history in Fresno: Pam Nelson opened the original Spectrum hair salon at Bullard and West avenues in 1977, and built on its success with The Spectrum II. Today, Spectrum Salon, Day Spa and Barber Shop continues to provide upscale salon and spa services.

With its full slate of services — in-

SERVICES Botox Cosmetic Fillers Customized Facials Visia Skin Analysis Hyperbaric Oxygen Facials HydraFacial MD Silk Peel Microderms Chemical Peels Fire & Ice Facial Treatments Acne Treatments Certified Cancer Care Facial Specialist Dermapen Micro-needle Treatment Eyelash Extensions Medical & Natural Weight Loss Programs LA SlimWrap CoolSculpting SculpSure Z-Wave Cellulite Treatments Ultherapy ThermiVa Massages Laser Hair Removal IPL Treatments

cluding hair styling, massage therapy, facials, waxing, makeup application and even a barber shop — the Spectrum is a one-stop-shop.

Hair services are its most popular request. The salon employs more than 20 hair designers, all of whom are trained in the latest styles and techniques, says assistant manager Cassandra Amaya.

Some of their most requested services are hair extensions and balayage, a type of highlighting in which dye is painted onto the hair to achieve a sun-kissed look. “It’s kind of like the ombré 2.0,” says Amaya.

Many of the salon’s clients come in on a regular basis for routine hair maintenance, says Amaya, but Spectrum stylists are also in demand for special events. “All of our stylists are really talented in doing updos and formal styles,” she adds.

Spectrum hasn’t forgotten the men. Its barber shop offers all of the classic services in an upscale environment.

If you like the products your stylist uses, be sure to check out the retail section. The salon sells Kerastase and Redken hair care products, as well as styling tools, brushes and beard balms — things that are “not really found in a lot of places,” says Amaya.

2. Michael Blunt Salon 1158 E. Champlain Drive, Suite 101 (559) 434-3300 michaelbluntsalon.com

3. La Vogue Beauty Shoppe 832 E. Olive Ave. (559) 237-5986 1490 W. Shaw Ave. (559) 229-9593 lavoguebeautyshoppe.com

Home Window Replacement

1 Clovis Glass Company 99 Sunnyside Ave. (559) 299-2819 clovisglass.com When a storm sends a tree branch through your kitchen window or you want to upgrade existing windows with the most up-to-date, eco-friendly options,

ThankYou Th For your

Vote 559 432-7222 1648 E. Herndon Ave. Suite 106 Fresno, CA 93720 Robert A. Graham MD

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Services

Sanchez discuss window options at Clovis Glass Company.

2. JZ Construction 145 Sunnyside Ave. (559) 324-0555 jzconstruction.com

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

55

People’s Choice

HOME WINDOW REPLACEMENT: Owner Lee Hoover and salesman Nate the choice for window replacement is crystal clear. Clovis Glass Company, which bills itself as a “total glass store,” specializes in both residential and commercial repairs.

Established in 1964, the business has been owned by the Hoover family since 1991.

“We offer everything but auto glass,” says Lee Hoover. “We do your in-home showers, mirrors, replacement of broken glass, insulated units.”

The staff performs in-home repairs and replacement, but also works out of the Clovis-based store and manufacturing facility. “You can bring your broken glass in the frame if you want and we’ll fix it while you wait,” says Hoover. “If you bring your insulated unit in the frame, we can fix it.”

Clovis Glass is an authorized dealer of Milgard, Andersen and Roll-Away windows, and also does custom repair and design work on everything from stained glass to skylights. In fact, prior to purchasing Clovis Glass, Hoover installed skylights in commercial buildings throughout the country.

Recently, Clovis Glass performed commercial work for Clovis Community Hospital, installing a 30-foot-tall piece of curved glass at the facility.

The company follows sound environmental practices, recycling glass and other materials when possible. “We don’t just throw stuff away,” says Hoover, “we’re trying to be good stewards of the earth and recycle everything that we can.”

¢

3. San Joaquin Glass 2150 E. McKinley Ave. (559) 268-7646 sjglass.com

Home Theater/Technology Company

1 Best Buy/Geek Squad 7550 N. Blackstone Ave. 655 W. Herndon Ave, Clovis (559) 446-0195 bestbuy.com Let’s face it, watching TV is serious business — whether you are a news addict, an avid consumer of reality TV shows or perhaps a diehard Netflix binger, the act of witnessing our programs play out in front of our eyes is no joke.

People want the biggest and the best screens to capture every detail of the content we crave, and Best Buy has the selection to deliver exactly what every TV junkie needs.

At Best Buy, an impressive looming display of numerous televisions may seem a bit daunting, but the diligent staff adorned in their trademark blue shirts are eager to help. With so many choices and so many features, it can feel overwhelming to the unfamiliar first-time buyer, but that’s why Best Buy hires only the most tech-savvy electronics veterans to guide customers to the television that best suits their situation.

Curved televisions, 3D televisions, 4K UHD televisions … Best Buy has it all.

For restaurant owners with patios or just

the ultra-dedicated football fan, Best Buy even offers outdoor televisions that can withstand brutal Fresno heat and chilly, cold weather. For some customers, an actual television just doesn’t cut it, and they like the large size a projector can offer without taking up space in a home.

Best Buy has many financial options for cardholders, so finding the TV of your dreams can be a reality.

And what good is a fancy television set without the appropriate corresponding speakers? Rather than take a shot in the dark by ordering online, the helpful team at Best Buy can point you in the direction of which brands work best with the television you purchase. Some folks prefer a simple sound bar while others love a loud, booming bass and surround sound for action movies or catching up on the latest “Game of Thrones” battle; audio systems truly depend on the individual.

Best Buy is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, with the exception of certain holidays, such as the notoriously busy Black Friday and holiday seasons.

2. Hi-Tech Home 2565 Alluvial Ave. (559) 521-1400 hitechhome.net

3. LinkUs Enterprises Inc. 5595 W. San Madele Ave. (888) 854-6587 linkuscorp.com

House Cleaning Service

1 Molly Maid 2310 E. Gettysburg Ave. (559) 225-4387 mollymaid.com When your home needs a little extra TLC and you don’t have time to take care of it yourself, Molly Maid is ready to lend a helping hand.

The national cleaning franchise has had a presence in the area for more than 20 years, says Craig Schneider, who owns the local franchise: “We pretty much clean the Central Valley. We go from Madera all the way to Kingsburg.”

His staff of more than 40 bonded and insured housekeepers specializes in cleaning your home’s highly trafficked and hard-to-reach areas, including bathrooms and kitchens, baseboards and floors. All employees complete a training program, in which they’re trained to clean the various surfaces found in the home.

While you can hire Molly Maid on a one-time-only basis — if you’re hosting a

party or preparing to list your home for sale, for example — Schneider says most clients request service on a recurring basis. “We offer weekly, every other week and monthly service,” he adds.

If chemicals are a concern, Schneider says, you can rest assured that Molly Maid uses “green” cleaning products that are also used in hospitals and restaurants.

In 1996, Molly Maid established the Ms. Molly Foundation. The local franchise donates a portion of its annual profits to support the Marjaree Mason Center, which provides shelter and services for victims of domestic violence.

2. The Master’s Helping Hands 5816 E. Shields Ave., Suite 115 (559) 348-2100 themastershelpinghands.com

3. Mini Mops 448 N. Broadway St. (559) 264-6677 minimopsinc.com

Licensed Day Care Center

1 Kids Kare Schools Multiple locations (559) 275-1169 kidskare.net Kids Kare Schools have been caring for and educating the area’s smallest students since 1960. The family-owned and -operated chain of daycare facilities, which began with one center and 14 kids, has grown to include 12 locations that serve more than 2,200 students in Fresno, Clovis and Madera.

Kids Kare Schools provide a range of age- and developmentally based services, including daycare, school readiness programs and after-school care.

“For the youngest kids,” says program director Adrianna Morales, “we do offer a potty training program, a preschool program that gets them completely prepared and ready for kindergarten and transitional kindergarten.”

Elementary school-aged children, ages 5 to 13, can continue to benefit from Kids Kare’s Club Kids Kare, which provides transportation to and from most local elementary schools as well as homework help and age-appropriate game rooms and play yards.

And, when the older kids are out of school for the summer, Kids Kare is there. The Summer Blast program “keeps

56 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Services

People’s Choice ny’s 13th center will be located in Clovis, near the Reagan Educational Center.

2. Brighten Academy Multiple locations brightenacademypreschool.com

3. Kids Park 8485 N. Fresno St. (559) 447-5437 kidspark.com/fresno

Mortgage Company

1 Wells Fargo Bank Multiple locations wellsfargo.com

NEW HOME BUILDER: Granville Homes offers new-home communities around the Valley’s best schools and neighborhoods. kids busy and having fun during the months they’re out of school,” says Morales. Activities include field trips, special guest speakers and swimming in the centers’ on-site pools.

Parents “like that they can have younger and older kids at the same facility

throughout the day,” says Morales. “They love that we are a family environment, [and] have very loving and caring teachers who know the children on an individual basis.”

The Kids Kare family will continue to grow this year, says Morales. The compa-

Wells Fargo is the nation’s leading originator and servicer of residential mortgages. Local sales team members work with customers to meet their home financing needs. “We differentiate ourselves by providing an experienced team focused on exceptional customer service,” says Alfredo Padilla, from the company’s consumer lending group.

“We take a long-term view of home

lending by building lasting customer relationships and making home loans achievable and sustainable,” he adds. “A good example is our yourFirst Mortgage, a new mortgage product targeted at first-time homebuyers. The product “offers a down payment of as little as 3 percent for fixed-rate mortgages, lower out-of-pocket costs, expanded credit criteria and incentives for homebuyer education to help more first-time homebuyers and low- to moderate-income families achieve sustainable home ownership.”

If you already own a home, Wells Fargo can help you refinance or access your home’s equity.

“Wells Fargo has been in this business for decades, through many economic and regulatory cycles,” says Padilla. “As time goes on, whatever the environment, our goal is to have our customers and clients recommend us to their families and neighbors for home ownership guidance and financing.”

2. Resource Lenders Multiple locations (559) 225-0500 resourcelenders.com

ALTOUR a toast to you for voting us #1 Travel Agency

2017

Like kids in a candy store9 The leading experts in luxury travel

ALTOUR

ALTOUR

2788 W. Bullard

310 W. Center St.

(559) 431-1800

(559) 625-1333

www.altourfresno.com

www.altourvisalia.com

VISALIA 0002881736-01

FRESNO

CST #2033020-10

It’s More Than Retirement5 It’s Five-Star Fun5 @>A> North Fort Washington Road • Fresno • ;>>@: A<?-==BA www9leisurecare9com

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Services

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

57

People’s Choice

3. De Young Mortgage (559) 666-2277 deyoungproperties.com/financing/specialsfinancing

New Home Builder

1 Granville Homes Multiple locations gvhomes.com Granville has a long legacy of building homes with timeless architecture and is passionate about upholding its slogan, “Building Happiness,” by being stewards of the land and providing for those less fortunate.

“What makes Granville stand out from other homebuilders is our commitment to our community and our homeowners,” says Stacy Benton, office manager. “We believe in creating a lasting legacy by building homes and neighborhoods that stand the test of time; and, by investing in our community. Granville is committed to providing food, shelter, healthcare and education to the underserved in our community through our GV Community Outreach initiative. We love Fresno and it is our great honor and pleasure to provide the very best service to our customers and our neighbors.”

Since 1977, Granville has built more than 5,700 homes in the Central Valley. It was one of the first builders to offer Eco-Smart energy-efficient homes, saving homeowners both money and energy.

Soon Granville will be releasing its new community, Deauville East, in north Clovis.

has weathered a lot of industry changes in its long history. But at its core is a desire to help people capture and preserve life’s moments — ordinary and extraordinary alike. In addition to selling cameras and equipment, Horn Photo offers photo finishing, image and video archiving, photo retouching and photo gifts.

At the heart of it all is the photo lab, says Stan Grosz, owner. “We’re still a Kodak professional photo lab. We’re one of the few that are left that still uses Kodak chemistry and paper, the way it’s been done for a long time. That’s the core of the lab and the services; that’s probably why we’re still around. We stuck to what everybody loved and didn’t make changes.”

Although the arrival of digital photography has changed the way we take and share our photos, he says the demand for traditional photo prints has remained high — and yes, people still bring in traditional film to be developed.

“I don’t care if it’s on an iPhone or a D500. I don’t care how you capture a photo, just capture it and let us help you with it. It’s fun to work with people and their memories, what they create. It’s pretty cool,” Grosz says.

2. Costco Multiple locations costcophotocenter.com

3. Walgreens Multiple locations photo.walgreens.com

Horn Photo 7945 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 225-5080 hornphoto.com Horn Photo is in the business of helping people preserve their memories.

The Fresno camera center, which will celebrate its 80th anniversary this year,

3. Vineyard Pools 1 N. Clovis Ave. (559) 299-6044

Real Estate Company

aholidaypool.com

1

wildwoodpools.com

1

deyoungproperties.com

Photo Processing

2. Wildwood Pools 320 W. Bedford Ave., Suite 106 (559) 439-7311

vineyardpools.com

Holiday Pools 4961 E. Dakota Ave. (559) 291-5571

mccaffreyhomes.com

design, the only limit is your imagination.

The builder will work with you to design the retreat of your dreams, whether a basic pool or a backyard oasis that incorporates landscaping.

Pool Builder

2. De Young Properties 677 W. Palmdon Drive, Suite 208 (559) 354-9898 3. McCaffrey Group 7020 N. Van Ness Blvd.

(559) 256-7000

REAL ESTATE COMPANY: London Properties’ success relies on talented folks like Barbara Gallagher, Kathy Papagni, Amy Evans, president and owner, Patrick Conner, Elsa Gutierrez, Elisa Simmons, Michael Garabedian and Daniel Mora.

We all have our ways of coping with the harsh Central Valley summers. Without a doubt, one of the most popular ways to stay cool is poolside. Holiday Pools has been bringing pools to Valley homeowners since 1970.

The family-owned and -operated company specializes in creating custom pools and spas, each designed to the individual client’s specifications. “Every pool we do is completely custom,” says office manager Julie Morgan.

The process begins with a visit from a member of the sales team, who will “go over what the customer’s needs and wants are, what can work in the backyard,” says Morgan. “We always keep in mind that there’s only going to be that one pool in that backyard.”

And, when it comes to your pool’s

1 London Properties 6442 N. Maroa Ave. (559) 436-4000 londonproperties.com Since 1971, London Properties has specialized in providing its clients with a full slate of real estate services.

Founded by Dan and Paula Conner, the two remain involved with its day-to-day operations even as the Fresno-based company has grown to include 10 offices from Hanford to Atwater, and more than 400 sales associates and staff members.

Whether you’re in the market to buy a home or land, or preparing to sell, London Properties’ agents and staff offer personalized service to each client.

“There is a process to both buying and selling,” says Company President Patrick Conner, and the most important is to “find out what [the client’s] objectives are.”

This includes your timeline for buying or selling, determining if you’re staying in the area and identifying the right neighborhood.

Conner says in 2016 the company surpassed $1 billion in sales volume.

“London Properties has a long history of working in every price range from firsttime homebuyers but also a longstanding reputation of working in the luxury home market,” Conner says.

2. Guarantee Real Estate Multiple locations guarantee.com

3. Granville Realty Inc. 1396 W. Herndon Ave., Suite 101 (559) 445-9000 gvhomes.com

Retirement Community

1 Fairwinds Woodward Park 9525 N. Fort Washington Road (559) 434-6444 leisurecare.com/our-communities/ fairwinds-woodward-park Your retirement should be enjoyable — after all, you’ve earned it. That’s why Fairwinds Woodward Park strives to bring a vacation-like atmosphere to its all-inclusive retirement community for adults age 60 and older.

The community, located near Riverview Shopping Center on Friant and Fort Washington roads, is like “a cruise ship on land,” says community sales manager Ren Ramshaw. Some of the all-inclusive

58 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Services

2. Terraces at San Joaquin Gardens 5555 N. Fresno St. (559) 439-4770 theterracesatsanjoaquin.com

3. Oakmont of Fresno 5605 N. Gates Ave. (559) 477-4466 oakmontoffresno.com

Solar Company

1 Solar City 3980 N. Chestnut Ave. (855) 860-7652 solarcity.com Thousands of homeowners in the Central Valley are turning to solar to power their homes, with good reason: solar energy costs less and creates less pollution than other types of energy.

SolarCity has been a leading solar provider since 2006, helping homeowners and businesses nationwide by providing renewable energy directly to them.

SolarCity takes care of everything homeowners need to convert to solar energy, from financing and permitting to installation and manufacturing.

“We’re constantly developing new ways for Americans to go solar while also

benefiting their personal finances and the environment,” says associate communications manager Katie Lyman. “Our customers are contributing to a cleaner, healthier planet when they go solar, because the average SolarCity power system will offset 178 tons of carbon dioxide over 30 years.”

The company, which has regional headquarters in San Mateo, has an operations center in Fresno and, as of last September, had performed more than 700 installations in the Fresno area, says Lyman.

Last year, SolarCity was acquired by Tesla Motors Inc., creating the world’s first and only integrated sustainable energy company.

2017

2. Arise Solar 5390 E. Pine Ave. (559) 449-8989 arisesolar.com

3. Energy House 122 E. Bullard Ave. (559) 432-1500 energyhousefresno.com

Tanning Salon

1 A Touch of Gold 9463 Fort Washington Road, Suite 103 (559) 434-8266 1127 N. Willow Ave., Suite 108 (559) 297-8269 atouchofgoldtans.com Here in the Central Valley, we’re blessed with an average of 267 sunny days each year, but when nature can’t provide you with the perfect tan, A Touch of Gold is ready to step in.

The tanning salon, which has two locations in Fresno and Clovis, helps its clients get that sun-kissed look with a variety of services and products, including traditional tanning beds, custom airbrushing and lotions.

Of the salon’s three types of tanning beds, says owner Jessica Felmus, the Matrix gives clients the most bang for their buck. The high-end bed “blocks out 98 percent of burning UV rays” and allows you to achieve a tan in just 10 minutes. “We have the only stand-up Matrix in the Central Valley,” she adds.

You can purchase individual sessions in any of the salon’s beds, or packages for multiple sessions. Single sessions range from $12 to $33, depending on the bed.

If you prefer to stay out of the heat entirely, Felmus suggests a spray tan, also

0002928348-01

perks included in monthly rent, she says, include weekly housekeeping and linen service, an upgraded cable package, free Wi-Fi in public areas and restaurant-style dining. An on-site pool, gym and library help residents stay physically and mentally fit.

Residents choose from two living arrangements: independent or assisted.

“Our job is to keep our residents as independent as possible for as long as possible,” says Ramshaw, “and that’s going to look different for someone who is 60 versus 101. And we do offer the assistance when people need that.” Medication management and grooming and dressing assistance are among the services offered.

Floor plans include studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments, which range from 441 square feet to 1,320 square feet. Rent, says Ramshaw, starts at around $2,200 and includes utilities, transportation, amenities and a monthly meal allowance.

Although apartments do come equipped with kitchens, residents can choose to dine at the community’s two restaurants: a café-style bistro and, for dinner, a full-service restaurant. Executive chef George Hiroco leads the kitchen staff.

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Services

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

59

People’s Choice

known as custom airbrushing. The byappointment-only service cost $50 per session.

A Touch of Gold also offers red light therapy, said to reduce signs of aging.

“The red light therapy is good for wrinkles [and] scarring,” says Felmus. “It helps rebuild collagen tissue and it doesn’t contain any UV rays, so it’s relatively harmless.”

2. Sunsational Tans Multiple locations sunsationaltans.com

3. The Tannery 7088 N. Cedar Ave. (559) 322-0600 tanneryfresno.com

Trade/Technical School

1 Institute of Technology 564 W. Herndon Ave. (559) 297-4500 iot.edu Institute of Technology may have a Clovis address, but the vocational education college serves students in the entire Fresno region, including Madera, Tulare and Kerman.

The school offers certificate and associates degree programs that can be completed in as little as seven months, says campus president Ron Gardner. Fields of study include business, culinary arts, criminal justice, medical (including Emergency Medical Technician and vocational nursing) and technical. A high school diploma program is also offered.

“Our selected programs are designed based on community need,” says Gardner. “We work with groups of employers and community members to determine programs that are of need and of high interest in our community.”

Right now, he adds, the culinary, vocational nursing and heating, ventilation and air conditioning programs are popular.

Financial aid is available for qualified students, and assistance is also available for current and former members of the military and their families. When students are ready to go out on the job market, Gardner says, IOT provides career placement services and assistance with resume creation.

2. Clovis Adult Education 1452 David E. Cook Way (559) 327-2800 clovisadulteducation.com

3. San Joaquin Valley College Multiple locations (866) 544-7898

3. Travel Shoppe 7461 N. First St. (559) 447-5767

sjvc.edu

shoppetravel.com

Travel Agency

Tree Service

1

1

Altour 2788 W. Bullard Ave. (559) 431-1800

Adolph’s A-1 Tree Service 6325 W. Olive Ave. (559) 222-0815

altourfresno.com

adolphstreeservice.com

When you want to get away — really get away — do you opt for an all-inclusive cruise, a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous safari? If you aren’t sure where to begin your vacation planning — or even if you do, but need a little assistance in making everything come together, Altour is able to lend a helping hand.

The full-service travel agency has a long history of helping its clients plan everything from vacations to business trips.

“The Altour business philosophy has been to go out and find the best travel professionals and give them the freedom to use their entrepreneurial spirit to help travelers achieve their dreams,” says senior vice president Lanny Zechar.

Altour Fresno — formerly known as Lewis Travel — employs longtime veterans of the travel industry who “utilize their knowledge and skills and expertise to give the client a lifetime of memories,” says Zechar.

Although the internet has made it easier than ever to plan a vacation, he adds, a travel agency still provides travelers with the most comprehensive travel-planning services.

“Years ago, when you traveled, you didn’t have all the specialization options that you would have today,” he notes, “and finding those specialization options and making sure it’s exactly what you want is where the expertise of a travel professional really comes into play.”

An agency the size of Altour, he adds, has the leverage in the industry to receive perks on behalf of its clients. Its travel professionals, he adds, are often privy to insider tips and specials that aren’t available online, and provide “support in case something goes awry.”

Most of us enjoy the shade and atmosphere trees provide, but don’t necessarily love the upkeep. When your trees need a little extra attention, Adolph’s A-1 Tree Service is just a call away.

The family-owned and -operated business is run by Adolph and Patricia Garcia, and their son, Rene. Either Adolph or head foreman Rene personally attends each job site, “giving our best possible service to our customers,” says Patricia.

Adolph’s specializes in pruning, trimming, tree and shrub removal, grinding and stump removal for residential and commercial customers. “We have the newest machines that makes the job very easy,” says Patricia.

Although many call for one-time service, says Patricia, the majority of the company’s customers are longtime clients who request annual maintenance.

Adolph’s A-1 Tree Service offers free estimates in Fresno and Clovis. “I want to thank everybody for voting for us,” says Patricia. “We really appreciate them taking the time.”

2. AAA/CSAA 5040 N. Forkner Ave. (559) 435-8450 1595 Shaw Ave., Clovis (559) 323-3000 calstate.aaa.com

2. Cobb’s Tree Care (559) 251-7907 provhort.com/cobbs

3. Fresno Tree Service 5213 E. Pine Ave. (559) 453-2500 fresnotree.com

Tutorial Center

1 Fresno City College 1101 E. University Ave. (559) 442-8209 fresnocitycollege.edu Successful students know they occasionally need a little extra help to achieve their academic goals. That’s why Fresno City College offers a variety of tutorial programs to help its students reach their potential.

Tutorial Center services are free to FCC’s enrolled students. These services

include one-on-one peer tutoring and group sessions. The program employs more than 100 peer tutors, who are either current students or former students attending other local colleges, says tutorial center coordinator Eric Sanders.

During the center’s hours of operation, students can drop in for one-on-one help in a variety of subjects, including history, math, sociology, biology and more, says Sanders. “Anything that a student asks for that we may not have at the time, we go out and find it.”

In addition to the drop-in service, FCC offers a program called Extending the Class. “We provide embedded tutors to actually sit in the class and conduct weekly study sessions for that class,” says Sanders.

“With ETC, we choose the historically difficult classes such as history, political science, math, biology [and] sociology.

These are historically difficult courses that students struggle in, so we have more of a structured setting.”

Finally, the Writing and Reading Center is a place where students can receive one-on-one help with writing projects.

“Students can bring in papers that they will be able to sit down with a tutor to assist them in correcting their papers and give them feedback,” Sanders says.

2. Sylvan Learning Center 3288 S. Mooney Blvd., Suite B (559) 636-1502 sylvanlearning.com

3. Learning RX 9495 N. Fort Washington Road, Suite 108 (559) 275-3276 learningrx.com/fresno-northeast

Veterinarian/Animal Clinic

1 Waterhouse Animal Hospital 1115 E. Champlain Drive (559) 434-4000 waterhouseanimalhospital.com Pet owners often think of their fourlegged roommates as family members — which is why regular veterinary care is crucial for their health and well-being.

Waterhouse Animal Hospital specializes in caring for your pet in good times and bad, providing everything from routine wellness checks to emergency medical services.

The full-service animal hospital was founded by Dr. Cheryl Waterhouse 21

60 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

¢

Services

People’s Choice

years ago. She and her staff of eight administer vaccinations and perform wellness exams and surgery. Two boardcertified surgeons, two veterinary cardiologists and a veterinary dentist also work out of the hospital on a part-time basis. Waterhouse Animal Hospital was the first in the Central Valley to work with such specialists.

Recently, one of the hospital’s doctors and a technician have become certified in animal physical rehabilitation, which benefits “dogs that have arthritis, dogs that have had bone surgeries, knee problems, back problems, fractures [and] overweight dogs,” Waterhouse says. The same doctor, she adds, performs acupuncture and laser therapy: “Acupuncture [is] for dogs or cats that have pain or back problems, and laser therapy we will use in arthritis cases and also some healing problems.” Sometimes, she says, a combination of all three therapies are used in an animal’s treatment.

Having founded the animal hospital 21 years ago, Waterhouse has had the opportunity to serve generations of families. “I see the children and the grandchildren of the clients I started with,” she says. “Dogs and cats are such important

family members. When they get sick, we understand how upsetting that is. ”

2. Abby Pet Hospital 4508 E. Ashlan Ave. (559) 442-1127 abbypethospital.com

3. All Creatures Veterinary 6575 N. Santa Fe Ave. (559) 449-4551

Wedding Photographer

1 Capture Life Events — Crystal Kelley 55 W. Alluvial Ave. (559) 402-0010 capturelifeevents.com Whether you tie the knot in a small backyard ceremony or a large black tie affair, your wedding is a day to remember. The right wedding photographer will make sure you can return to memories of the day for years to come.

Crystal Kelley, owner of Capture Life Events, has built her business on capturing these, and other, memories. The former marketing professional-turned photographer shoots about 25 weddings a year, in addition to family portraits, maternity and newborn sessions and graduation portraits.

All of the studio’s wedding packages include an engagement session. “For us, an engagement session is mandatory,” says Kelley. “It’s a way for us to get to know that bride and groom and see how they interact in front of a camera.” It’s especially important to do this before the wedding, she adds, since the day itself is so busy.

A second photographer accompanies Kelley to each shoot, to ensure no special moments go undocumented. Although they’re independent contractors, she says, all of her second photographers are fellow professionals who have been shooting with her for a couple of years.

After both the engagement session and wedding, couples meet with Kelley in her Fresno studio to view their photos and choose how they’ll preserve their memories.

“We do provide digital collections with

all of our wedding packages but we also are able to provide full print services from print to canvas, albums and anything else they might want to have their photograph on,” she says.

Kelley also specializes in portraiture, so it’s not unusual for her to see her wedding couples when they celebrate new milestones in their lives.

“We love it when we’re able to photograph from engagement to wedding, then maternity, then newborn, then family,” she says. “We’ve done several of those cycles and one of our favorite things [is] to form relationships with our clients and see them though their life events.”

2. Pamela Leeds Photography 3087 W. Bullard Ave. (559) 435-3614 pamelaleedsphotography.com

3. Milne Photography 1285 E. Nees Ave. (559) 431-0681 milnephotography.com

Special Event Venue

www.fresnoag.com

Thank you for voting us “Best Local Hardware Store” 136 years and counting • ”You Need It…We Got It!” Fresno Ag Hardware is a full-line, full-service hardware store with over 50,000 square feet under roof; we stock many unique items that you will not find in other stores in the area.

Thank You 2017

2017

Store Hours: Monday-Friday 7:00am - 7:00pm Saturday 8:00am - 6:00pm Sunday 9:00am - 6:00pm

Voted Best Caterer by the California Restaurant Association for the 2015 Best of the Valley Awards 0002889543-01

4590 N. First St. Fresno CA 93726 (Gettysburg and First) Phone: (559) 224-6441 Fax: (559) 225-4092

For voting us as one of your favorite Caterers!

Find us in the Tower 559-443-7199 1211 N Wishon Avenue, Fresno, CA 93728

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Shopping

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

61

People’s Choice really well-known for our dresses, it’s become almost built around the dresses.

We get people coming in saying they went to Macy’s looking for a dress and they couldn’t find anything, so Macy’s told them to come here,” Haynes says.

The location at River Park also has a NYX brand makeup counter that is a feature not offered at other Fresno boutique stores.

Ooh La La’s shoes and accessories also have earned a cult following. VIP text club members can sign up to receive sale alerts and sometimes get exclusive deals.

Appliance Store

BICYCLE STORE: Nick Keller Works on a bike at Steven’s Bicycles.

1

Bicycle Shop

Lowe’s Multiple locations

1

lowes.com

Steven’s Bicycles 4045 W. Figarden Drive (559) 229-8163 1365 N. Willow Ave., Clovis (559) 797-0148

Appliances are arguably the backbone of any modern home — just ask anyone with a broken washing machine or clunky old refrigerator. Luckily, the professional team at Lowe’s is pumped up and ready to get any homeowner a new appliance.

Lowe’s carries refrigerators in all styles and finishes. Stainless steel is the most popular, but Lowe’s also offers white and black finishes. French door, side-by-side and fourdoor refrigerators are some of the coolest styles on the market today. Popular brands like Frigidaire, Whirlpool, Samsung and LG are sold at Lowe’s. You can also ask a sales associate about any refrigerator parts you might need.

High-efficiency washers and dryers, purchased individually or in sets, tend to be the most sought after by consumers.

Lowe’s also carries dishwashers, ranges, wall ovens, small appliances and cooktops.

With a credit card account from Lowe’s, customers can receive a 5 percent discount with every purchase.

2. Sears Multiple locations sears.com

3. Home Depot Multiple locations homedepot.com

stevensbicycles.com Whether it is for fitness, fun or family, Steven’s Bicycles has your bicycle needs covered. Professional cyclists and casual cyclists alike have made Steven’s their No. 1 destination for biking.

“We have been here since 1955. Parents have gotten kids their bikes, and now we see those kids as adults, coming in here getting bikes for their own children,” says Devin Bovee, manager.

Steven’s Bicycles offers two of the most sought-after names in the bicycle world: Giant and Specialized. Other brands sold at Steven’s include Electra, Haro and Felt.

Steven’s Bicycles utilizes top-of-theline technology to help Valley cyclists get the most out of their bicycle purchase.

The Body Geometry Fit system is a process that analyzes the way your body moves on a bike and adjusts the bike itself to suit your individual physical needs. Starting at $60 and going up to $225, this fitting process can change a cyclist’s entire cycling experience.

Steven’s Bicycles is proud to be more than just a retail store, but additionally a place to meet other cycling enthusiasts and have a good time enjoying a sport for folks of all ages.

“The cycling infrastructure in Fresno is growing,” Bovee says. “We started a lady cycle club, with around 500 members. We also do a lot of community-based rides, like rides in Woodward Park that end up at the food trucks. We’ve had rides in the Tower District. What we really like doing is focusing on being a community-oriented place, rather than just a store.”

In addition to winning first place for 11

2. Revival 23 453 Pollasky Ave., Suite 107, Clovis (559) 593-5127 revival23.com

years in The Fresno Bee’s People’s Choice Awards, Steven’s Bicycles has been crowned one of America’s Best Bike Shops for the fourth year, courtesy of the National Bicycle Dealers Association.

3. A U-Neek Boo-Teek 4561 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 229-5683

2. Rubber Soul 132 W. Nees Ave., Suite 111 (559) 435-2453

3. Vonda’s 7949 N Blackstone Ave. (559) 438-9900

rubbersoutbicycles.com

vondasgifts.com

3. Sunnyside Bicycles 6105 E. Kings Canyon Road, Suite 104 (559) 255-7433

Children’s Clothing

sunnysidebicycles.com

Target Multiple locations (559) 431-0104

Boutique

1 Ooh La La Multiple locations (559) 297-7770 iloveoohlala.com For a hand-picked, out-of-the-ordinary shopping experience, Fresno turns to Ooh La La because Ooh La La knows that fashion is about the trends within a region and keeps up with the pulse of what is popular right here in the Valley.

“We are locally owned, Fresno natives.

We try to bring in the trendiest merchandise at an affordable price,” say Norma Haynes, co-owner.

Ooh La La started in 2007 with its original location on Willow and Nees avenues in Clovis. Ooh La La has a store in River Park and another sister store called Lola, which is in River Park, as well. Haynes and her sister, Janet Danielian, co-own the stores, which have grown into hubbubs where cute style and convenience merge.

“Our River Park location has some edgier pieces for going out. We have fabulous dresses. I would say we are

1 target.com Parents turn to Target because its cheery, clean and organized stores provide a casual atmosphere that makes shopping with children easy.

Target carries toddler sizes 2T-5T. Girls and boys can find shirts, pants, rompers, leggings and cute little socks. Target’s children’s clothing ranges from X-small (sizes 4-5) to XX-large (18).

Target is one of the leading children’s clothing retailers to offer plus sizes for girls and husky sizes for boys, acknowledging that growing kids sometimes are too big for children’s clothes but not big enough for adult-sized clothes.

Target stocks many school uniform styles that are the foundation of a dress code-compliant wardrobe. Khakis, navy blue bottoms and various styles of skirts can be found in the $15 range, while uniform polos usually range from $7.99 to $12.99.

Looking stylish can still be affordable at Target, especially when customers take advantage of the Target RedCard: signing up for a debit or credit card with Target can earn you a 5 percent discount on each transaction.

62 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Shopping

People’s Choice Download Target’s mobile app and its coupon app called Cartwheel for a true bargain-hunting experience. With Cartwheel, shoppers can see the grand total of money saved after every trip to Target.

Avid users have noticed that after a few months’ time, Cartwheel has become an essential part of their shopping routine.

2. Macy’s Multiple locations macys.com

3. Kohl’s Multiple locations kohls.com

Domestic Auto Dealer FLOORING STORE: The friendly sales staff at A&M Flooring are ready to help you

with your flooring projects: David Ensign, Nicole McManus, Jose Valdovinos, Steve Coxe and JP Aragon.

2. The Children’s Place Multiple locations childrensplace.com

3. Old Navy Multiple locations oldnavy.com

Consignment Store

1 Plato’s Closet 1053 E. Shaw Ave. (559) 222-6700 platoscloset.com Plato’s Closet is a secondhand store with style. Everything in the store was previously owned, which means shoppers can snag hot items at a fraction of the cost. For both ladies and gentlemen, this chain store has earned a reputation as a higher-end used clothing store.

Whereas thrift shops might be full of unwanted, out-of-fashion pieces, Plato’s Closet devotes itself to carrying only the best.

Bring in your gently used, good-condition brand-name clothes and accessories to be evaluated by the professionals at Plato’s Closet. The staff will give you an offer to buy the items you bring in and, if you accept, you can walk away with some extra cash. Some of the most popular items Plato’s Closet buys are jeans, dresses, women’s tops, athletic wear and coats. Accessories like hats, sunglasses, purses, jewelry and belts are much-needed inventory.

Plato’s Closet has stores across the country and several within California.

2. Orphan Annie’s 6735 N. First St., Suite 104 (559) 449-8707 orphananniesconsignmentandalterations.com

3. Princess & The Pauper 1755 W. Bullard Ave. (559) 374-6555 princessandthepauper.net

3. Repeat Performance 1429 N. Van Ness Ave. (559) 442-0129 repeatperformance.us

Department Store

1 Target Multiple locations (559) 431-0104 target.com Department stores have revolutionized the way American consumers choose to spend their hard-earned money, and now it seems we would be absolutely lost without them. Target is an exemplary beacon of this all-in-one attitude; shoppers can grab some dog food, find a new pair of slippers and purchase a new coffee table — all in the same location.

With the recent addition of groceries to its stores, Target has drawn in even more customers.

A small but important facet of Target’s business that differentiates it from other stores is the beloved Dollar Spot, usually located at the front of the store. Most items in the area cost $1 or close to $1, and boast products from signature names like Hello Kitty or Marvel.

1 Michael Automotive 50 W. Bullard Ave., Suite 201 (559) 431-6000 michaelautomotive.com Purchasing a domestically produced vehicle is often a conscious choice to support American manufacturing, and with Michael Automotive, making that decision does not mean one must sacrifice quality and world-class features.

Michael Automotive, which is the largest family-owned automotive group in Fresno, has earned a name for its numerous car dealerships including Toyota, Volkswagen and Scion, but its Cadillac and Chevrolet dealerships stand out from the pack as two very different approaches to American design.

At Michael Chevrolet, truck enthusiasts can find the iconic Chevrolet Silverado, known for its rugged and practical applications out in the field. Chevrolet is wellknown for its speedy, dynamic vehicles, like the Camaro and the Corvette, while also boasting family-friendly picks such as the Chevy Malibu or Chevy Cruze.

For eco-friendly drivers, the all-electric Chevy Bolt is a hit. It was named Motor Trend’s 2017 Car of the Year. Stereotypes of electric vehicles are shattered with this revolutionary piece of machinery — the Bolt EV can drive an estimated range of 238 miles, which could calculate out to three or four days before the next charge, according to Chevrolet.

Michael Automotive has served the Central Valley since 1985.

2. Hedrick’s Chevrolet 961 W. Shaw Ave., Clovis (559) 761-0801 hedrickschevrolet.com

3. Lithia of Fresno North Blackstone Avenue and Auto Center Drive

Electronics Store

1 Best Buy Multiple locations bestbuy.com Best Buy is arguably the biggest name in the electronics industry — according to the company, more than 70 percent of the United States population lives within 15 minutes of a Best Buy store, and the retail giant brings in more than $40 billion annually.

Televisions, audio systems and cameras helped build the brand, but nowadays the influx of smaller electronic goods on today’s market has driven demand for tablets and smartphone devices. Apple products like iPhones, iPads, laptops, Apple watches and Beats headphones are popular. Android devices are also heavily sought-after.

The latest trend of wearable tech such as Fitbits and smart watches are easy to browse and compare at your neighborhood Best Buy. With recognizable brand names such as HP, Microsoft, Intel, Sony and GoPro, Best Buy is perhaps the only major retailer carrying such a diverse selection of electronic goods.

Sure, a drone might be more fun than a refrigerator, but Best Buy’s appliance department is equally as striking in its grandiose size. Best Buy sells technologically advanced kitchen appliances, but also laundry appliances, vacuum cleaners and outdoor appliances as well.

2. Costco Multiple locations costco.com

3. The Apple Store 645 E. Shaw Ave. (559) 244-3400

Flooring Store

1 A&M Flooring 160 E. Bullard Ave. (559) 448-1000 aandmflooring.com A&M Flooring was founded in 1940, when Alex and Morris Horwitz opened a small store on Belmont Avenue in Fresno. Today, the store is a purveyor of carpet, hardwood, laminate, rugs and tile.

Flooring is quite literally the founda-

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Shopping tion of the home — at A&M, the professionals believe flooring should have an excellent appearance and durability.

Flooring is something everyone uses, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Design consultants are available to customers in Fresno, Clovis, Visalia, Madera and Sanger; consultants can guide you to discover the perfect flooring solution for any budget in a way that aesthetically complements your home.

With hundreds of options, it might seem overwhelming to narrow down the choices, but A&M’s pros have years of experience to help you along the way.

A&M has flooring options for both residential and commercial buildings.

Repairs and installations are a breeze with A&M Flooring. Technicians trained in tile repair can help fix your damaged tile, and they recommend saving extra tiles with every purchase, in case a tile is chipped in the future. A&M can guide customers through installations and offer advice for first-time homeowners who feel a little bit lost in the process.

At A&M, customers are placed above all else. Schedule a free in-home measurement by calling (559) 448-1000.

2. Bedrosians Multiple locations bedrosians.com

3. Flooring Liquidators Multiple locations (877) 254-2534 flooringliquidators.net

Flower Shop

1 D&L Flowers Multiple locations (559) 431-7673 dandlroses.com Since purchasing D&L Flowers about three years ago, owner Prisca Shiralian has maintained her mantra of bringing smiles to the Central Valley community.

Her approach to business is to make sure that patrons associate D&L Flowers with friendliness and helpfulness. Shiralian understands that not everyone is completely familiar with the names of flowers, and works to gently guide potential newcomers through the process.

“We try to create an experience,” Shiralian says. “We give everybody special attention and make sure their arrangements are what they want. We can work with customers to make sure it’s within budget, to help them pick a favorite color and so on. No matter how small, we want to help.”

D&L Flowers has fresh-cut flowers for

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

63

People’s Choice

Take a bite of local flavor Rosetti’s Fine Foods and Biscotti House in Clovis started on its way to national recognition with the San Joaquin Harvest Cake. The delicious blend of California dried apricots, Calimyrna figs, walnuts, pecans, hazelnuts, raisins and cranberries is cooked in a light egg batter with no oil or butter.

Diane Rosetti-Adams took her creation to a New York food show in the 1990s, and it proved a big hit. She returned the next year with her biscotti cookies, and again — another hit.

National attention and eight awards followed. Bon Appetit, ROSETTI’S FINE FOODS: Quality is a Country Living, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and other publi- hallmark of The Biscotti House in Clovis. cations featured Rosetti’s baked goods.

Selling to local customers from a quaint house at the corner of Clovis and Sierra avenues, the business emphasizes quality over mass production. Matthew Rosetti, Diane’s son, runs a bakery and produces specialty foods at the Clovis-Sierra location and co-owns the business with his mother. He uses whole eggs, butter, the best almond paste and high-quality cocoa. “When you have a passion, you know you’re doing your best,” Rosetti says. “I’m proud to say I make the biscotti for our customers.”

He produces eight flavors of biscotti: Almond Anise, Traditional Almond, Triple Almond, Cocoa Almond, Hazelnut, Lemon Almond, Pistachio Cranberry and Chocolate Almond. Other favorites are the Biscotti Candy Bark, a combination of biscotti and fine chocolate that Rosetti-Adams created, and personalized gift baskets featuring biscotti and specialty items.

The company’s products also are sold in the Fresno-Clovis area at Sierra Nut House, Enzo’s Table, The Market, Bouquet of Fruits, Kuppa Joy Coffee House and Holiday Boutique.

The website is rosettis.com.

customers to create their own bouquets to give arrangements a personal touch, in addition to the traditional pre-designed arrangements. While roses are always a customer favorite, D&L Flowers has flowers for every occasion. D&L has become known for its $5 and $10 bouquets, which are popular choices for customers looking for a small way to brighten someone’s day.

The familiar yellow-and-white striped flower shop may look modest on the outside, but D&L Flowers is quickly making a name for itself with major showstopping pieces.

Customers can purchase wedding bouquets, corsages, boutonnieres and coordinating reception centerpieces.

Couples can select from numerous color options and find the perfect arrangement — whether one is a fan of the classic white floral scheme or prefers something bold, D&L Flowers can add a touch of botanical beauty to anyone’s special day.

2. Lou Gentile’s Flower Basket 4918 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 243-9143 gentilesflowers.com

3. San Francisco Floral 2071 W. Bullard Ave. 5080 E. Tulare Ave. (559) 268-0111 sanfranciscofloral.net floralarrangementsfresno.com

Furniture Store

1 Mor Furniture 5156 N. Blackstone Ave. (866) 466-7435 morfurniture.com Residents of the Central Valley appreciate the thrill of a good bargain hunt, but simultaneously strive to score a lowercost item that will last for years to come.

At Mor Furniture, Fresno has found a happy medium: quality is not sacrificed for home furnishings that are both durable and affordable.

“We are ecstatic to win in the Valley and be recognized,” says Rick Haux, Mor Furniture president.

As the largest family-owned and -operated furniture store on the West Coast, with a whopping 32 stores in seven states, Mor Furniture understands the importance of keeping the family involved in the furniture-buying process.

Mor Furniture plays kids’ movies throughout the showroom and offers complimentary popcorn, cookies, coffee and soft drinks.

Mor Furniture believes keeping clients happy can go a long way.

“We always have a high review on Yelp and other review services. It’s usually four or five stars,” Haux says.

Whether customers are searching for a simple $300 sofa or a $3,000 sectional with reclining seats and cupholders, Mor Furniture has a grand selection for even the pickiest of furniture shoppers.

2. Fashion Furniture Multiple locations (559) 440-9600 fashionfurnitureco.com

3. Macy’s Furniture Gallery 1732 E. Shaw Ave. (559) 222-6611

Grocery Store

1 Save Mart Supermarkets Multiple locations (559) 322-8021 savemart.com

64 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Shopping

People’s Choice among the first notified of can’t-miss deals and limited time offers. Download Lowe’s mobile app on the App Store or Google Play for an enhanced shopping experience; find the exact items you are looking for, then locate them on a map of the store. Shoppers can also use the app to scan items and read more fully into their product details.

2. Home Depot Multiple locations homedepot.com

3. Fresno Ag Hardware 4590 N. First St. (559) 224-6441 IIMPORT AUTO DEALER: Mercedes-Benz of Fresno puts customer service as its

priority No. 1.

Save Mart Supermarkets opened its first store in Modesto back in 1952, leading the way for the grocery store industry that we see today.

“We’re honored to have been named Best Grocery Store again. It shows we’re consistently delivering products and services that today’s families want. As a Central Valley-based grocer, Save Mart focuses on offering great products that come right from our own backyard. We try really hard at making our stores reflect the Central Valley lifestyle, which means fresh comes first,” says Nannette Miranda, public affairs manager. “We’re coming up on the part of the year where more than 90 percent of our produce is California grown.”

Save Mart was one of the first grocery stores in California to start selling prepackaged meats, garden supplies and gift items. Years after its breakthrough onto the California grocery scene, Save Mart is a staple store that nearly everyone in town has visited at least once. More than a dozen Save Mart stores are scattered throughout the Central Valley.

“We have the largest hot food offerings in the Valley. Our fresh-never-frozen chicken tenders, famous fried chicken and custom cakes remain top sellers.

We’re trying out burrito/nacho/taco bars in many stores and hope to expand that to more locations soon. And our new artisan sandwiches are an instant hit.

There’s no doubt sourcing locally and offering meal solutions, along with friendly customer service, keep shoppers coming back,” Miranda says. “We just celebrated our 65th anniversary as a company. That longevity can’t happen without loyal shoppers and our stores adapting to what they want.”

2. Winco Multiple locations wincofoods.com

3. Trader Joe’s 5376 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 222-4348 1077 N. Willow Ave., Clovis (559) 325-3120 traderjoes.com

Home Improvement Store

1 Lowe’s Multiple locations lowes.com Lowe’s prides itself on 60 years of improving the business of home improvement.

The staff at Lowe’s has personal experience with each of their departments and have the training to walk customers through the oftentimes overwhelming process of selecting the right tools, hardware and appliances for their home. With the help of friendly Lowe’s staff, do-ityourself projects seem more manageable and less daunting.

Professional home-improvers such as painters, construction workers and repair workers trust Lowe’s with their businesses; Lowe’s estimates that 30 percent of its overall annual sales are from commercial projects. Whether you own a home or business, Lowe’s has services and product selection unlike any other major hardware store.

With each home improvement store averaging roughly 112,000 square feet of retail space, Lowe’s is a true destination for all things home. Flooring, plumbing, electrical, windows and home security solutions are just a few of the many departments within Lowe’s. Customers can even shop for home décor — Lowe’s is committed to pulling out all the stops.

Sign up for Lowe’s text alerts to be

fresnoag.com

Import Auto Dealer

1 Fresno Lexus 777 W. Palmdon Ave. (888) 690-5095 fresnolexus.com Lexus has become such a household name in the United States that it is easy to forget the company’s Japanese origins.

Lexus is the luxury vehicle division of Toyota, one of the largest automobile manufacturers in the world, and carries Toyota’s similar design aesthetic into its brand.

“A lot of people don’t know how affordable a Lexus is. It can be something the average buyer can afford, but they just don’t realize it,” says Mike Gibson, general manager.

The Lexus brand appeals to more middle-class shoppers because it is both a fun display of status and a strategically wise option for lovers of sensible features such as gas mileage, surrounding cameras and parking assistance. Simply put, with Fresno Lexus, patrons can expect to get a lot of bang for their buck.

With the pre-owned selection at Fresno Lexus, interested buyers can get their hands on the wheel of a Lexus for market prices under $30,000 — some are even less than $25,000. Of course, Fresno Lexus also carries luxury SUVs, such as the 2017 Lexus LX or GX — perfect for car buyers with many passengers who want to ditch the cliché of the mini van.

Environmentally conscious buyers are big fans of Fresno Lexus’ hybrid selection; the Lexus classic shapes of the Lexus ES and GS hybrid cars offer the simplicity of an everyday vehicle without compromising on style.

Fresno Lexus prides itself on encompassing both the images of a refined luxury company and an accessible, friendly neighborhood car dealership.

1 Mercedes-Benz of Fresno 7055 N. Palm Ave. (559) 438-0300 mboffresno.com There is perhaps no greater example of exemplary service in a retail setting than the fact that Scott and Katie Biehl, the husband-and-wife team behind Mercedes-Benz of Fresno, give customers their personal phone numbers.

“We’re local ownership and our staff really goes above and beyond. We do a lot of charity events on the showroom floor that isn’t typical of most dealerships,” says co-owner Scott Biehl.

The Biehls’ take on customer satisfaction has practically turned it into an art form; not only do Mercedes-Benz owners have full access to the dealership owners, they also receive access to a full coffee bar while shopping or having work done on their vehicles. Patrons can sip a latte or cappuccino while they enjoy a complimentary car wash.

“We think that makes a difference. It goes a long way, it is truly the best experience [while at a car dealership],” Biehl says.

Mercedes-Benz of Fresno is full of surprises — the luxury brand known for its iconic German cars has more up its sleeve than the general public may know.

“We have hybrid and electric vehicles.

A lot of people didn’t realize that we carry them, but we do. You can have a luxurious electric vehicle,” Biehl says.

With more than a dozen classes of vehicles, Mercedes-Benz is an import car dealer that has options for all types of car buyers. Shoppers can find bold sportscars, impressive cargo vans, classy compact cars and even trendy models like the Mercedes-Benz G Class G 550, a square-shaped car popular with celebrities.

Even among the Mercedes-Benz family, Mercedes-Benz of Fresno has a reputation for greatness: Fresno’s MercedesBenz dealership earned the MercedesBenz Best of the Best Award, which is given to a select few dealers nationwide.

Mercedes-Benz of Fresno was fortunate enough to win the 2016 DealerRater Consumer Satisfaction Award.

2. Toyota of Clovis 895 W. Shaw Ave. (888) 992-4548 toyotaofclovis.com

3. Clawson Honda 6346 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 435-5000 clawsonhonda.com

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Shopping Rolex, Cartier, Movado and more.

Karkazian Jewelers is also the only place in California that can repair Accutron watches. In addition, the watch repairman can speak several languages, including Spanish, Armenian, Russian and Arabic.

Come in to Karkazian Jewelers at either its Fresno or Clovis locations to get free estimates, trade in your old diamonds and gold for new jewelry or get your jewelry cleaned. Karkazian Jewelers offers layaway and financing for jewelry through Wells Fargo.

Jewelry Store

1 Karkazian Jewelers 9447 N. Fort Washington Road, Suite 110 493 W. Shaw Ave., Suite B, Clovis (559) 434-9009

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

65

g n i t o V r o F u o Y k n a h T Ooh La La

2. Rogers Jewelers 7685 N. Blackstone Ave., Suite 108 (559) 513-8118 2007 W. Caldwell Ave., Visalia (559) 733-7970 thinkrogers.co

3. Fresno Coin Gallery Jewelry & Loan 4616 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 222-2646 fresnocoin.com

Local Hardware Store

1

karkazianjewelers.com

Fresno Ag Hardware 4590 N. First St. (559) 224-6441

Since 1977, Karkazian Jewelers has been creating magical moments with both its one-of-a-kind, handcrafted jewelry and assortment of brand-name favorites. Owner George Karkazian actually began his career by going to watch-repair school.

“I graduated from a Swiss school. We repair all types of watches here,” Karkazian says.

Karkazian notes the craftsmanship and careful attention to detail that is typical of local family-owned businesses is something people just won’t get anywhere.

“We are jewelers who make jewelry. If they want a wedding ring, we will make them one. Not custom made, because those you can pick from a catalog. We make special-made jewelry. You tell us what you want, and we make it for you,” Karkazian says.

Karkazian Jewelers carries popular bridal sets from brands such as Krizanti and Simon G., and are the only jeweler in Fresno that carries them. Karkazian has everything from trendy rose gold jewelry to earrings and pendants. Men won’t feel left out at Karkazian Jewelers once they take a look at the extensive selection of watches from designer names such as

Fresno Ag Hardware has the selection and convenience of a major hardware store combined with the good old-fashioned service of a traditional mom-andpop shop.

“We are one of the oldest locally owned stores in Fresno, that gives us a reputation,” says Ian Williams, member of the board of directors. “We have 75 employees dedicated to customer service … if you go into one of those big box stores, there’s nobody around. We can take you by the hand if that’s what you need, or let you go your own way around the store. We’re here for the customers.”

Home projects are stressful enough as it is, so the staff at Fresno Ag tries to do everything they can to ease customers’ tensions with a team of employees that is deeply familiar with how to use the items they are selling. Employees are even encouraged to make recommendations for future products and changes in the business based on feedback from everyday shoppers.

“That’s what makes us dynamic — we listen to customers. We believe that the best ideas come from our customers,” Williams says.

e u q i t u o B Your #1

fresnoag.com

%

20 OFF

ONE REGULAR PRICED ITEM SOME EXCLUSIONS MAY APPLY GOOD THROUGH 5/31/17

CLOTHING l ACCESSORIES l SHOES

“We only look expensive” 7725 N. VIA DEL RIO FRESNO, CA. 93720 559-439-7770

CLOVIS, CA. 93619 559-297-7770

SHOP ONLINE @ ILOVEOOHLALA.COM

0002926041-01

JEWELRY STORE: George Karkazian and Ari Adams from Karkazian Jewelers

¢

66 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Shopping

People’s Choice

“Everyone who is invested in the business works here, it’s not like we have owners from another state. My grandma, who is 83, still comes in once a week and says hello,” Williams says.

Fresno Ag Hardware offers paint, garden supplies, plumbing, electrical and power tools and other unique items such as house goods or seasonal supplies.

Fresno Ag is also the only hardware store in town that is pet-friendly — yes, Fido doesn’t have to wait outside in the car.

Most recently, Fresno Ag Hardware has brought in a full-time mechanic to help repair items like broken chainsaws or perhaps a forgotten old lawn mower that has seen better days. According to Williams, the sporting goods department is in for a massive overhaul — a 1,500square-foot addition will soon lure outdoor adventurists to browse through the huge expansion.

driving off in a Lexus without simultaneously going overboard on their budget. It also offers high-end vehicles such as the 2017 Lexus LX; for those looking to go a bit sportier, the 2017 Lexus GS F boasts a V-8 engine and 467 horsepower.

For a complete list of available inventory, visit its website or make an appointment with a sales representative.

2. Clovis True Value Hardware 1890 Shaw Ave. (559) 325-6730

1

clovistruevalue.com

3. National Hardware Supply 7173 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 439-2767 nationalhardware.com

Luxury Auto Dealer

1 Fresno Lexus 777 W. Palmdon Ave. (888) 690-5095 fresnolexus.com The staff and owners at Fresno Lexus know the term “luxury” should extend beyond the car itself — it should also mean a fantastic experience purchasing and servicing a vehicle.

“We care about the client first. With our clients, it’s a long-term relationship — many of our customers make more than one transaction,” says Mike Gibson, general manager. “Clients refer others because of the way they were treated. Our employees truly know the clients.”

At Lexus, luxury means more than leather interior; luxury is a dependable automobile with elevated yet practical features. Safety additions include the advanced multi-view monitor on the LX 570, which allows the driver to utilize high-definition cameras mounted on the front and sides of the vehicle to carefully assess surroundings.

Fresno Lexus offers refined vehicles at a wide array of prices. Its extensive preowned inventory gives more buyers a chance to experience the excitement of

2. Mercedes-Benz of Fresno 7055 N. Palm Ave. (559) 438-0300 mboffresno.com

3. BMW of Fresno 7171 N. Palm Ave. (888) 717-0639 bmwfresno.com

Mattress Store Sleep Train/Mattress Firm Multiple locations sleeptrain.com In February, big news was announced for Sleep Train.

“Sleep Train has joined the Mattress Firm brand, renaming all 318 stores along the West Coast to Mattress Firm,” announced Shauna Nuckles of Revolution Public Relations for Sleep Train/ Mattress Firm. “The change gives consumers added shopping benefits and expands the company’s award-winning Foster Kids program nationwide.

“By uniting under one name and one purpose, the Foster Kids program adds nearly 100 nonprofit foster care organization partners to help more than 400,000 foster children nationwide. Plus, consumers will benefit from Mattress Firm’s simplified ‘comfort by color’ shopping experience and a larger value zone of beds priced under $799. The company will provide a seamless experience for customers, maintaining all guarantees and warranties for past and future purchases.”

Sleep Train has nine stores in the Fresno-Clovis area. Founded in 1985 by Dale Carlsen, the store offers an excellent selection of brand-name mattresses including Beautyrest, Sealy, Posturepedic, Tempur-Pedic, Stearns & Foster and Serta iComfort, at the lowest price — guaranteed.

“We’re committed to providing local customers the same great service and selection they’ve grown accustomed to,” says Ken Murphy, president and CEO of Mattress Firm. “We’re excited that we’re now helping millions of people across the country sleep better while also collecting donations for foster children.”

IMPORT AUTO DEALER/LUXURY AUTO DEALER: Fresno Lexus is a People’s Choice two-category winner.

2. Mattress Land Multiple locations mattressland.com

3. Mor Furniture 5156 N. Blackstone Ave. 3000 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia (866) 466-7435 morfurniture.com

offers? Join the texting club by texting “STEAK” to 77948.

2. Costco Multiple locations costco.com

3. Sam’s Italian Deli 2415 N. First St. (559) 229-9346 samsitaliandeli.com

Meat Market

Men’s Clothing

1

1

The Meat Market 454 W. Alluvial Ave. (559) 436-6688 1990 N. Fowler Ave., Clovis (559) 256-1390 themeatmarket.com Tri-tip is a customer favorite at The Meat Market, but don’t forget the wide variety of meat sold along with beef: pork, lamb, poultry and more, plus seafood.

“We have a niche market because we do custom cuts that are fresh daily and we have pre-marinated meats, ready to go,” says Monica Tasier at The Meat Market.

Started as a local family-run meat distribution service in 1976, the company grew into a retail meat market and specialty store with a location in Fresno and another in Clovis. The Grill serves as an in-house barbecue in both locations and a popular option for take-out or event catering. There is a menu online for both stores that includes current specials.

“We also have sauces and seasonings,” adds Tasier. “Our most popular is the Santa Maria seasonings for tri-tip. Unique to us is the in-house all-natural sausages in a variety of flavors.”

Want to know about secret deals and

Macy’s Multiple locations macys.com Macy’s offers a full range of men’s clothing: formal wear, suits, blazers, casual wear, active wear, work wear, sleepwear and underwear. More than a dozen name brands are available as well as sports team apparel. A customer can shop for big and tall sizes in pants, shirts and suits.

Don’t forget shoes. Sizes are available up to size 18 and include dress shoes, casual and athletic footwear, as well as boots. Choose from a variety of accessories such as belts, hats, gloves, scarves, sunglasses, jewelry, wallets, watches, cologne, grooming products and more.

Just recently announced is an expansion of the retailer’s popular Ideology activewear line with the launch of ID Ideology, available exclusively at 250 Macy’s stores and online at macys.com.

“It’s not only professional athletes who inhabit fields, courses and tracks,” says Nancy Slavin, senior vice president of Macy’s Private Brands Marketing. “People who work in offices, coffee shops, hospitals, schools and everywhere in between are committing to their health and wellness, and are working out to reach their

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Shopping

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

People’s Choice

goals — that makes them athletes. With ID Ideology, we are getting them out of their old T-shirts and shorts, and into performance gear that will help take them to the next level.”

3. Best Party Rental 197 N. Sunnyside Ave., Suite 102 (559) 325-6615 bestpartyrental.com

2. Patrick James 780 W. Shaw Ave. (559) 224-5500

Pet Store

patrickjames.com

1

3. Kohl’s Multiple locations

PetSmart Multiple locations petsmart.com

kohls.com

Motorcycle/ATV Dealer

1 Clawson Motor Sports 6334 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 435-5020 clawsonmotorsports.com Whatever anyone might desire in a recreation vehicle, whether it’s a snowmobile, motorcycle, watercraft or ATV, there’s a good chance Clawson Motor Sports not only has it in its showroom, the dealer can service it and stock parts and accessories for it. The dealer is known for having the largest selection in the Valley. Inventory includes brand names like Yamaha, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Can-Am, Victory, Kawasaki, SeaDoo, Arctic Cat and Polaris.

Clawson has sold motorcycles since the mid-1960; now it also buys and sells pre-owned motorcycles.

What’s the most popular vehicle sold?

“The weather and time of year really determine what is popular,” says Yvonne Kroll. “Street, dirt, water or snow ... you will always find more to ride at Clawson Motorsports.”

In 1936, Jack Clawson started a boat building company, Clawson Boatworks.

The company grew; Honda Motorcycles and a Honda Automotive dealership were added. In 1975, the McKoane family became the new owners of Clawson Boatworks and Clawson Honda of Fresno, then later the new Clawson Truck Center. Clawson Motorsports is now part of McKoane Enterprises, with Jim McKoane’s children, Caroline, Larry and John continuing his legacy.

2. Fresno Harley Davidson 4345 W. Shaw Ave. (559) 275-8586 hdfresno.com

3. Wilson’s Motorcycles 284 W. Shaw Ave., Clovis (559) 237-0215 wilsonsmc.com

67

MEAT MARKET: The Meat Market’s Levi Quale, Anthony Fornaro, Caralyn Reed, Isaiah Hunter, Nikki Wood and Crystal Marquez.

Musical Merchandise

1 Guitar Center 5330 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 221-2222 4254 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia (559) 713-0352 guitarcenter.com No matter what you need in terms of musical equipment, you’ll be sure to find it at Guitar Center, the world’s largest instrument retailer. Currently, there are more than 260 locations and the business ships to more than 100 countries worldwide.

“We offer musical equipment for all — the beginner, the novice, the expert and for everyone imaginable,” says Westin Conriquez, Fresno store manager. “We offer many products as a whole. Everything from pro audio equipment, recording, live sound, lighting, guitars, folk instruments, percussion, accessories, keyboards/pianos and band and orchestra equipment. We cover pretty much all the bases and have a new distribution center in California with all the equipment you can imagine. This also cuts down on shipping time. We offer many in-house services that customers are part of as well.”

Customers can also buy and sell used equipment. Guitar Center also has an in-house repair technician who works on many instruments and specializes in guitar maintenance and repair.

“We also offer in-house group guitar lessons, group ukulele, group recording classes and many other clinics that vary every month, all for free,” Conriquez says.

Products can be tried out prior to purchase and there’s an experienced team on staff to answer questions.

2. Gottschalk Music Center 328 Pollasky Ave., Clovis (559) 298-4400 355 W. Main St., Merced (209) 723-3337 3. Patrick’s Music 769 E. Barstow Ave. (559) 224-7287 patricksmusic.net

Party Supply Store

1 Party City Multiple locations partycity.com Walking into a Party City store, you can’t help but smile.

There’s color everywhere with party music playing and banners, balloons and piñatas undulating overhead. Themed costumes and hats, along with matching tableware, party favors, candy, games, streamers and decorations, are available for any event imaginable at budgetfriendly prices.

“We’re all about celebrating life’s special moments all year long,” says Alycia Rea for Party City. “As the one-stop party shop, the need for party supplies for every season and occasion are across the board. From little children and adults to businesses and organizations, everyone stocks up to throw a Party City party.”

“Nobody has more parties for less,” is Party City’s motto. There are more than 850 company-owned and franchised stores in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.

2. Bargain Party 453 W. Bedford Ave. (559) 431-1234 bargainpartyrents.com

With more than 1,475 stores nationwide and approximately 1,500 pet stores in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico, PetSmart is the largest specialty pet retailer of services and products for the lifetime needs of pets, be it a dog, cat, fish, bird, reptile or other small pet.

Along with food, stores offer care products and pet services, such as grooming, veterinary care, boarding, day camp and dog training.

“Pets are true members of the family and better behaved pets tend to spend more quality time with their families,” says PetSmart’s Jane Stringer, director of PetsHotel & Training Services. “Training offers curriculum appropriate for all life stages to help ensure pets are fully integrated family members and can spend cherished moments, events and time with their families.

PetSmart offers space in the stores for in-store pet adoption partnerships with independent nonprofit organizations, such as PetSmart Charities, helping to save the lives of more than 500,000 homeless pets each year.

2. Whitie’s Pets 5215 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 438-4343 whitiespets.com

3. Petco Multiple locations petco.com

Photo Supply Store

1 Horn Photo 7945 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 225-5080 hornphoto.com Whether you’re a professional photographer or just beginning to hone your skills, the experienced staff at Horn Photo can help you find a camera that meets your needs. For nearly 80 years, the camera store has specialized in selling photography equipment, even as the industry and technology have evolved.

68 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Shopping

Everything and the kitchen sink Cresco Restaurant Equipment & Supply Co. uses a totally appropriate phrase — “we sell everything including the kitchen sink” — in its marketing.

The business at 2018 S. Van Ness Ave. carries utensils as small as teaspoons and equipment as large as walk-in refrigerators. Cresco has nearly 100,000 square feet of inventory space at its location south of downtown Fresno.

“We’ve built our business on having items in stock,” says Cresco president Allen Grubb.

Restaurants, bars, convenience stores and other commercial ventures are the main customers at Cresco. But the business is also open to the public.

Aisle upon aisle at Cresco’s main building is loaded with merchandise. To name just a few items, the inventory includes snow cone, cotton candy and pasta machines, wine glasses, beer mugs, deli and bakery cases, tables and chairs, bar and cocktail sinks, three-tub sinks with drain boards, sandwich prep tables, chef’s coats and non-slip shoes, cutlery, pots and pans and pour spouts.

Cresco stocks more than 200,000 individual items.

The company also designs commercial kitchens, and Grubb has produced plans for schools, churches and restaurants.

Cresco opened in Fresno in 1986. The company has other stores in Sacramento and Denver, Colorado, plus two locations in Nevada. Stores in Las Vegas and Reno are called Resco.

The website is restaurantequipment.com.

People’s Choice “We sell cameras and all the things that go with them,” says Stan Grosz, who (with wife, Shelly) purchased the store from its original owners 25 years ago.

“We’re the top camera store in the area, from Hollywood up to Sacramento.”

The store sells all of the most popular DSLR camera brands, including Canon and Nikon. “They’re around 72 to 74 percent of the market,” says Grosch. The Nikon DL500, he adds, was the store’s best seller last year.

Once you have your camera, you’re going to need the gear to go with it.

Camera accessories — lenses, bags, tripods and other equipment — are also sold in the store.

If you’ve recently purchased a new camera and are eager to improve your skills, Horn Photo offers a variety of classes and workshops, from brandspecific primers to classes that focus on portraiture and nature photography.

2. Costco Multiple locations costcophotocenter.com

3. Walgreens Multiple locations photo.walgreens.com

that has been a nursery continuously since 1922, which makes us the oldest retail nursery in the Central Valley, and one of the oldest in California,” says Miller. “I have never even met anyone who remembers this neighborhood without a nursery here, so the element of nostalgia is certainly something people talk about.”

Experts in rose care, the full-service nursery grows more than 1,000 varieties of roses and carries its own line of rose food, “Bill’s Rose Formula.” Many of the plants, trees and shrubs sold at the garden are grown locally, so they adapt better to the Valley’s weather conditions, important for those triple-digit summer days. A special soil is even used to reduce transplant shock.

Miller and his staff give gardening advice on the radio program, “Valley Grown,” from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturdays on 1430 KYNO AM.

2. Belmont Nursery 7730 E. Belmont Ave. (559) 255-6645

3. Camping World of Fresno 3672 S. Maple Ave. (866) 983-0515 campingworldoffresno.com

Shopping Center

3. Riverside Nursery 5215 N. Golden State Blvd.

(559) 275-1891

River Park Shopping Center 220 E. Paseo Del Centro (559) 437-4855

riversidenursery.com

1

Paul Evert’s RV Country 3633 S. Maple Ave. (559) 486-1000

gazebogardens1922.com

toyhaulerliquidators.com

1

RV Dealer

“Family friendly, dog friendly with live music from 5 to 9 p.m.” Not exactly a description you’d expect to find on a garden center’s website, but this is not an ordinary garden center.

“I think our customers like the fact that we aspire to be more than just a nursery,” says Scott Miller of Gazebo Gardens. “We host a popular beer garden with really great food trucks and local music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday all year long. We also have a café (Café Van Ness) that’s open seven days a week. We’ve hosted lots of weddings, community meetings, etc., over the last few years. We are located at the traditional starting point for Christmas Tree Lane. A customer recently described Gazebo as a ‘community center,’ and that description suits us just fine.”

The landmark garden center has been a family tradition for generations of loyal customers for nearly a century.

“Gazebo Gardens is located at a site

2. Toy Hauler Liquidators 3186 S. Parkway Drive (559) 229-2277

belmontnursery.com

Plant and Garden Store Gazebo Gardens Nursery 3204 N. Van Ness Blvd.

(559) 222-7673

and Holiday Rambler, gas motor homes, fifth wheelers, travel trailers, toy haulers and tent campers.

The dealership accepts trades and specializes in nationwide RV sales by providing free nationwide delivery and a “Fly N Buy” program. RV storage includes a free dump station, free water fill station and a free 10-point inspection.

Established in 1987, The Paul Evert RV Club provides information on service specials and group trips of interest to members.

1 rvcountry.com “We sell Fun!” reads the sign at Paul Evert’s RV Country dealership. More than 10,000 customers have purchased fun in the form of RVs from Paul Evert’s RV Country.

According to internet manager, Craig Strohman, “Our dedication to our customers, selection of top brands and commitment to the RV community is what sets us apart.”

The 40-bay service center on 26 acres, just off of Highway 99, carries just about everything related to RVs: sales of new and pre-owned RVs, in-house parts department, financing, master-certified technicians, storage, detailing, service, parts and accessories, paint and body shop and, most importantly, a caring staff.

The business has expanded to locations throughout California, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon and Washington, with the flagship Fresno location offering the most services. The inventory is vast and includes diesel motor homes from the finest manufacturers like Tiffin, Monaco

shopriverpark.com There’s a lot to see, eat and do during a visit to River Park Shopping Center.

The 100-acre property is located along Blackstone Avenue near Freeway 41 and is divided into sections for shopping, entertainment and dining.

Landscaped beautifully with seasonal plants and water features, the public areas are as welcoming as the surrounding stores.

“Consumers always say they love the outdoor shopping experience in a very clean and well-kept, safe environment,” says Tracy Kashian at Lance-Kashian & Company, River Park Management Office. “With the movie theater, retail shops and all the great dining locations, it is hard not to want to spend the day or evening at River Park.”

The shopping center’s website has detailed information as to store locations, events and a map with store phone numbers, so it’s easy to plan an outing. The Leaf, River Park’s monthly online newsletter, has further information about local happenings.

“Lots of new things will be taking place this year at River Park,” says Kashian. “A new playground will replace the current one, remaining in the same location. All new furniture and sitting areas will be installed in the mall area, a few new tenants will be joining us and a couple current ones are being relocated.

New and exciting things will be happening this year at River Park.”

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Shopping

shopfiggardenvillage.com

3. Fashion Fair 645 E. Shaw Ave. (559) 224-1591 fashionfairmall.com

Spa Dealer

1 Energy House 122 E. Bullard Ave. (559) 432-1500 energyhousefresno.com Since 1984, Energy House has been instrumental in making its customers’ lives more comfortable by providing portable pools, wood, gas and pellet stoves, solar energy, ceiling fans and spas. The company’s professional team is highly trained, annually certified and has mastered the newest and latest technology of their products. For spas of any brand, Energy House offers computerized water testing as well as a complete range of repairs, installations, replacements and diagnostics for all of its products.

According to Kevin O’Neal, store manager, “Our impeccable customer service sets us apart. Our business depends on referral and repeat business.”

Energy House carries various collections of Hot Spring Highlife portable spas, among them, Highlife, Limelight, Hot Spot and Fantasy. The popular spas are designed to provide superior enjoy-

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

69

People’s Choice

MOTORCYCLE ATV DEALER/WATERCRAFT DEALER: Michael Lang, Kurt Phillips, Lex Henderson, Harris Hudoyo, Darlene Kawasaki and Nikki Ellis at Clawson Motor Sports.

2. Fig Garden Village 790 W. Shaw Ave. (559) 412-5296

¢

ment, ease, endurance and efficiency of use. Through advanced engineering, some of the outstanding features include the care taken to deliver innovations such as intuitive controls that make operating hot tubs easier, 100 percent nobypass filtration for water that is filtered 100 percent of the time and multiple layers of foam insulation to maximize energy efficiency.

no for sports teams were for the 49ers and the Raiders. If you didn’t follow those teams, you were pretty much out of luck, he says, so he decided to open a sports store that would cater to all 32 NFL teams in a part of town where no sports stores existed.

“In the summer of 1998, I purchased $1,200 of licensed product from a local wholesaler and set up shop outside my brother’s stereo shop,” Rosales says.

“With the help of another brother, Frank, who purchased a 8-foot-by-10-foot white tent, we started JR’s Sports.”

The new business was an immediate success. Several building expansions followed with its current location making the business one of the largest sports stores on the West Coast. Customers have a huge selection of NFL, MLB, NBA and NASCAR merchandise, apparel and collectibles. Popular items are apparel for men, women and children plus headwear, team jerseys, mugs, wallets, watches, blankets, T-shirts, automotive accessories and picture frames.

2. Hallmark Gold Crown Multiple locations hallmark.com

3. Vonda’s 7949 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 438-9900 vondasgifts.com

2. J&S Pool and Spa 338 N. Minnewawa Ave., Clovis (559) 297-7995 jspool.com

3. Jacuzzi Premium Spas of Fresno 6630 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 261-0326 jacuzzifresno.com

Specialty Gift Store

1 JR’s Sports Collectibles 4249 W. Shaw Ave., Suite 103 (559) 277-3536 605 W. Herndon Ave. Suite 800, Clovis (559) 575-8250 jrsportscollectibles.com When John Rosales, also known as JR, couldn’t find collectibles in Fresno for his favorite team, the LA Rams, he considered that to be an opportunity. Nineteen years ago, the only merchandise in Fres-

Sporting Goods Store

1 Dick’s Sporting Goods Multiple locations dickssportinggoods.com The mission of Dick’s Sporting Goods is to be recognized by customers as the No. 1 sports and fitness specialty retailer that serves and inspires athletes and outdoor enthusiasts to achieve their personal best.

That’s quite a lofty goal from when an 18-year-old Dick Stack opened a fish bait-and-tackle shop with his grandmother’s $300, in 1948. Dick’s Sporting Goods now has more than 645 stores nationwide. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company also owns and operates more than 90 combined Golf Galaxy, Field & Stream, True Runner and Chelsea Collective specialty stores.

“Dick’s Sporting Goods offers a wide array of products for any sports or outdoor enthusiast,” says Aaron Pisk, community marketing manager. “We not only strive to have the best product, but we value ourselves in providing excellent customer service as well. We believe this

combination allows for a great customer experience.”

The store is noted for quality athletic and outdoor apparel and footwear, plus gear for fitness, cycling, team sports, camping, hunting and fishing.

2. JR’s Sports Collectibles 4249 W. Shaw Ave., Suite 103 (559) 277-3536 605 W. Herndon Ave., Suite 800, Clovis (559) 575-8250 jrsportscollectibles.com

3. Big 5 Multiple locations big5sportinggoods.com

Tire Dealer

1 America’s Tire Multiple locations americastire.com, discounttire.com America’s Tire or Discount Tire, was born in 1960, when Bruce T. Halle rented an old plumbing supply building in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with an inventory of six tires. Over time, the company grew to be the world’s largest tire and wheel retailer, with more than 925 stores in 32 states and plans for additional growth. For those in California, Oregon and parts of Washington, the company is known as America’s Tire.

For more than 55 years, the company supplied consumers with name brands such as Goodyear, Michelin, Bridgestone and exclusive brands such as Arizonian and Fisk. America’s Tire also offers wheels like Konig, Liquid Metal, TSW and the premium brand, MB Wheels.

America’s Tire/Discount Tire also sponsors NASCAR Nationwide Series and Monster Energy AMA Supercross and Formula D. “America’s Tire guarantees the lowest prices and delivers personalized service to make tire buying easy and hassle-free,” says Sarah Broyles of Discount Tire, public relations.

Among the services provided are tire rotation and balance, new tires or wheels consultation, tire inspection and flat repair. Employees are expertly trained and if the store does not have the brand a customer wants in stock, it can be ordered.

2. Les Schwab Multiple locations lesschwab.com

70 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

Shopping 3. Costco Multiple locations costco.com

Used Car Dealer

1 CarMax 7189 N. Palm Ave. (559) 490-7901 carmax.com CarMax has used cars across the country that are quality certified and come with a free history report. There are no hassles with upfront pricing and there is a five-day money back guarantee. Additionally, CarMax says it will buy your car no matter the age or condition and the offer is good for seven days. You don’t even have to buy a CarMax vehicle. Best of all, it’s all done with a smile.

“Our customers love the honest, transparent and high-integrity car-buying experience we deliver when they sell or buy a car at CarMax,” says Catherine M. Gryp, at CarMax Marketing. “For more than 20 years, CarMax has made car buying more ethical, fair and stress-free by offering a no-haggle, no-hassle experience and an incredible selection of vehicles.”

The sales strategy has been successful.

There are now more than 150 stores nationwide with a sales volume of more than 6 million. Customers can use the website to schedule appraisals and appointments, make payments and get prequalified for a loan.

CarMax is widely recognized as one of the best automotive retailers in the United States. Recent awards include 2016 Fortune 500 Company No. 191, Fortune, 2005–2016 “100 Best Companies to Work For” and “100 Best Workplaces for Millennials.”

2. Michael Automotive 50 W. Bullard Ave. (559) 431-6000 michaelautomotive.com

3. Lithia of Fresno North Blackstone Avenue and Auto Center Drive

Watercraft Dealer

1 Clawson Motor Sports 6334 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 435-5020 clawsonmotorsports.com Along with personal watercraft like Ski-Doo, Sea-Doo and Jet Ski manu-

People’s Choice factured by Yamaha and Kawasaki, Clawson Motor Sports stocks a massive selection of new and pre-owned motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs and Side x Sides and snowmobiles at the dealership in Fresno.

Just check out the website to see photos and details of current inventory, accessories, financing, specials or promotions. You can also get a quote on a trade, make a service appointment or schedule a test drive online. Clawson services and carries parts for the vehicles it sells, and the facility is convenient to the neighboring communities of Clovis, Madera, Modesto, Visalia, Hanford and Sanger.

Jack Clawson started the company in 1936 as a boat building company and then added Honda motorcycles in the mid-1960s, followed by other motorsport vehicles. In 1975, the McKoane family became the owners of Clawson Boatworks and Clawson Honda of Fresno. In 1997, Sea-Doo watercraft joined the fleet followed by the Polaris line in 2004.

Since 1976, Clawson Honda of Fresno has been involved in the community; it is important for the company to give back.

“We are active with Valley Children’s, The Central California Blood Center, veterans organizations, Clovis Unified and many schools in our community,” says Yvonne Kroll.

2. Bohner Lacefield Marine 10724 Highway 41, Madera (559) 431-0336 blmboats.com

3. Clovis Marine 2475 N. Fordham Ave. (559) 291-5737 clovismarine.com

Wedding and Formal Attire

1 David’s Bridal 455 E. Shaw Ave., Suite 172 (559) 230-2748 davidsbridal.com For more than 60 years, David’s Bridal has been the go-to place for finding the perfect attire for weddings, proms and other formal events.

“What makes David’s Bridal stand out as a store to buy formal wear is that a bride-to-be can schedule her shopping appointment at David’s Bridal Fresno while her maid of honor is looking at dress options at her local David’s Bridal store in Kentucky knowing that she’s going to walk away with exactly what the bride envisioned her in,” says Lisa White, district manager. “Our store teams go above and beyond to ensure the entire

bridal party has a consistent experience, no matter where they are based.”

The inventory is fluid and constantly changing. Right now, some of the largest selling items are the new Oleg Cassini Spring 2017 bridal gowns.

Seasonal trends are “sleeved ball gowns for brides and for social occasions, dresses with intricate skirts are on trend while two pieces are quite popular for the prom crowd this year,” says White.

2. Madeleine’s Bridal Boutique 457 Pollasky Ave., Clovis (559) 299-2619 madeleinesbridalboutique.com

3. Little Black Dress 1731 W. Bullard Ave., Suite 128 (559) 439-2032 littleblackdressprom.com

Wine Selection

1 BevMo! 7639 N. Blackstone Ave. (559) 431-2626 1095 Herndon Ave., Suite 101, Clovis (559) 472-7871 bevmo.com Beverages from all over the world can be found at BevMo!, where the philosophy is, “Shopping for beverages should be as much fun as drinking them.”

The first BevMo! opened in Walnut Creek in 1994, with the Fresno store opening in 2003.

According to director of marketing, Hana Kim, weekly wine, beer and spirits tastings are popular with customers. “It’s a great opportunity for them to experience something new and different, and help them expand their taste preferences,” she says. “What also really sets us apart is our incredibly knowledgeable and helpful BevMologists in every store.

Buying new wines and spirits can be intimidating to many people, and they are there to help shoppers with this process in a helpful and friendly way.

“Our ClubBev loyalty program is extremely popular at our Fresno stores, and across the entire chain, as more than 40,000 people have joined in order to save money and have access to unique offerings and sales in Fresno. Our new app has been well-received and our always popular 5-Cent Wine Sale continues to draw crowds throughout the year.

You can purchase select bottles of incredible wines and get the second bottle

for only a nickel. We continue to add a combination of unique wines as well as long-time favorites to the roster of wines offered in this sale.”

2. Vino Grille & Spirits 1440 E. Champlain Drive, Suite 106 (559) 434-1771 vinogrille.com

3. Costco Multiple locations costco.com

Women’s Clothing

1 Macy’s Multiple locations macys.com From formal wear to lounge wear, there’s an excellent chance you’ll find what you’re looking for at Macy’s.

“Assortment is what makes Macy’s stand out,” says Monica Gubrud, manager, media relations, Northwest Region.

“Macy’s offers selections in every price range, from luxury to the more affordable. Something for everyone, fitting everyone’s needs. Macy’s is a one-stop shop for home, fashion and accessories, cosmetic, fragrance, as well as merchandise and events that surprise and delight our customers.”

Along with the name brands it sells, Macy’s also has its brand of private labels that are sold only at Macy’s and are designed for specific customers. The “Only at Macy’s” merchandise make up approximately 20 percent of sales.

“This spring, Macy’s will also carry an exclusive, new collection by famed designer Yigal Azrouel,” says Gubrud. “YYIGAL, an architecturally influenced, limited-edition line, embodies the sophisticated and feminine spirit of the Yigal Azrouel brand through signature tops, blouses, faux-leather motorcycle jackets, intricate dresses and a statement jumpsuit. Priced from $69 to $199, YYIGAL officially launched at 149 Macy’s stores and macys.com on Feb. 15.”

2. Kohl’s Multiple locations kohls.com

3. Ooh La La 1305 N. Willow Ave., Suite 140 (559) 297-7770 7725 N. Via Del Rio (559) 439-7770 iloveoohlala.com

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE

¢

SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

71

72 SATURDAY, MARCH 18, 2017

¢

A CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE FRESNO BEE