Readers’ Choice isn’t just a clever name for one of the Weekender’s biggest events and issues of the year.
It’s all about you, our readers. Every year, we put the ballots out there, and every year, you send them back to us in droves. You vote for your favorites, we tally and your favorites win — it’s as simple as that.
This year’s contest was the most diverse we’ve ever seen. You are going to see some new winners in many categories, while some staples still reign triumphant.
Readers’ Choice doesn’t just let us know what your favorites are. It lets us learn a lot about you. We learned that you love — really, really love — Parade Day and La Festa Italiana every year. We learned that you miss Murray’s/Slainte and the Staircase –– a lot. We learned that by far, Old Forge pizza and pierogis are your favorite products to come out of our area, and that when you daytrip, you love New York City and Philadelphia most.
While there were more than a few “nothing” or “moving” responses when we asked what you are looking forward to most this year in NEPA, your main answers were summer and concert season, in particular, at the Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain.
And when we asked what the best thing about living here was, the majority of you said our seasons, which was closely followed by your friends and family.
You have voiced your opinions. Here are your winners. w
Best jukebox: The Bog
In 2001, when The Bog in Scranton changed owners, the process of the ever-evolving jukebox mirrored those changes. Do not expect to find a digital jukebox, though, because the bar is wholly authentic. By reinventing the play list, patrons have a much wider selection of music ranging from classics to recent tracks.
“You never know what you are going to get. We get sick of hearing the same stuff. Everyone likes music here, so we keep it fresh,” says Brian Craig, one of the co-owners of The Bog who believes that the jukebox creates the ambience that keep patrons coming back.
(Runners-up: Hops & Barleys, Liams)
Best place to buy lingerie: Mr. Fashions
Judy Petiak opened Mr. Fashions in 1969. Now in Hanover, the lingerie store competes against larger names but succeeds with its non-conventional items.
Mr. Fashions serves its purpose of selling sexy but classy lingerie ranging from corsets and bustiers to hosiery.
On top of intimate lingerie after 39 years, Petiak adds that she remains faithful to the store, rarely ever taking time away from meeting new customers.
“You only take from a business what you get out of it,” says Petiak.
(Runner-up: Victoria’s Secret)
Best local one-man/one-woman musical act: Robb Brown
Originally from Wilkes-Barre, Robb Brown has been involved with music in the Wyoming Valley for more than 10 years. His influences range from Stevie Wonder to Bob Marley, which can be heard in his music intertwined with funk, rhythm, soul and reggae.
Brown’s humble nature and respect towards other musicians depicts his character as one that adds to the positive backdrop of Wilkes-Barre.
In defining himself and his music, Brown says, “I love everybody. I am always a hug away. Me and my music.”
Currently, in addition to his solo shows, Brown plays in The Collective and The Rob and Kermit Show. Brown will be releasing his first solo album in the summer.
(Runner-up: K8)
Best female bartender: Nikki Resetar, Carey’s Pub
Three years ago, Nikki Resetar of Kingston started as a bartender. Though she works at Carey’s Pub, Resetar also works at Wyoming Valley West as a receptionist during the day. Her schedule is busy, but she enjoys being a bartender for the spontaneity every night that she considers extremely rewarding.
“It doesn’t feel like a job,” says Resetar.
During her free time, Resetar enjoys spending time with friends and listening to music. When asked what her favorite drink was, she replied “Miller Lite.”
(Runner-up: Heather Smith, Outsiders)
Best wings: Kelly’s
Some like it hot.
Those who do go to Kelly’s Pub and Eatery in Scranton, that is. The bar, established in 1990, is run by six sisters: Trish Laboranti, Joan Boino, Kelly Hamm, Peggy Cosgrove, Karen Snyder and Kathleen Fritch.
Wing night is every Wednesday and features 30 cent wings for in-house customers. Kelly’s offers a range of flavors, but the biggest draw is the hot wings, smothered in a sauce concocted by Boino.
Kelly’s would like to thank their loyal customers, who they love catering to.
“Everybody here is spoiled,” says Laboranti. “We do whatever they want.”
(Runner-up: Chicken Coop)
Best sports bar: Whistles
With 63 televisions — 30 of them newly installed plasmas — it’s no wonder that Whistles in Scranton is the best place to go to catch a favorite sporting event.
Since 1996, Whistles has been a haven for fans of all sports. Open daily, the bar has a Monday-through-Friday happy hour and one of the largest billiard/game rooms around.
The staff at Whistles is honored to be recognized as the No. 1 place to go to watch the big game.
“We’d like to thank all of our patrons and everyone who voted for us,” says Anita Bendowski, manager. “We appreciate your support.”
(Runner-up: Big Ugly’s)
Best open mic: River Street Jazz Cafe
Every Wednesday at nine, artists from all over the Valley meet at the River Street Jazz Cafe's open mic night to showcase their talents.
From bands to spoken poetry, patrons of the Jazz Cafe; can both enjoy and join in on the festivities, with no cover charge attached. Successful local bands, such as Cabinet, have their roots in the open mic night.
Tom Moran has organized the open mic nights for eight years now and is very grateful for the support the Jazz Cafe gets.
“I’m absolutely thrilled about the award,” he says.
(Runner-up: The Bog)
Best theatre group: Little Theatre
The Little Theatre’s 85th season is going smoothly and can now be marked by winning this award for the second year in a row.
Barbara Wilson, general manager, looks at the award as confirmation that the non-profit organization is doing something right.
“It says that we’re providing programming that people enjoy and want to see,” she says. “It’s difficult to make those artistic decisions, especially when you’re also worried about the financial part of it.”
The theatre consists of about 30 actors who stay consistently, as well as several others who come and go. The theatre’s next production, “Annie Warbucks,” will run in early June.
(Runner-up: Impulse Improv)
Best place to see a local band: Nightcaps
Over the past few years, the crowd at Nightcaps has grown dramatically, yet according to co-owners Vinnie Savinelli and Carl Pucylowski, the surprise factor was still relevant when they learned of their Readers’ Choice award.
“It is exciting to know all your hard work and effort pays off,” says Savinelli.
Providing a great stage and lighting, Nightcaps has the perfect setup for the top local bands.
“We have a great atmosphere to put on a good rock show no matter who they are,” continued Savinelli. “Carl and I would like to extend a thanks to the Weekender for doing this every year, the staff, the bartenders, security, the bands and of course anyone who has come through our doors.”
(Runner-up: Tink’s)
Best jeweler: Rainbow Jewelers
The family-owned business Rainbow Jewelers has the honor of winning two years in a row.
“We are very excited we got it again; we were actually hoping we were going to,” says co-manager Deanna Wateski.
Serving the NEPA community for 20 years, Rainbow Jewelers focuses on quality and excellence.
“We plan on staying in business for a long time, keeping our customers happy,” says Wateski. “Thank you to our community for making us number one two years in a row.”
(Runner-up: Bartikowsky Jewelers)
Best male bartender/server: James Bond, Hops & Barley’s
James Bond, yes that is his name, has been serving up drinks for 14 years.
“Winning this was quite a shock for me,” explained Bond. “It is nice to know a lot of people appreciate the good service Hops and Barleys offers.”
Although his favorite drink to make is not the special 007, but the Oceanfront, Bond intends to soon own a restaurant or bar in the area.
“Thank you to everyone who voted for me,” says Bond. “And a special thanks to the people who get drunk at Hops and Barleys, because I wouldn’t have won without you!”
(Runner-up: Nick Chiumento, Colosseum)
Best local politician: Lou Barletta, Karen Boback
Mayor of Hazleton, Lou Barletta has only wanted to change the community for the better, and now he intends to do the same in Washington, D.C..
“Winning this award couldn’t have come at a more perfect time,” says Barletta. “I’ve decided to run for U.S. Congress, so those who voted for me, remember to vote for Congress, too.”
Not considering himself as a politician, but more of a public servant, Barletta feels like he is only doing his job.
“It’s nice to stop and realize others have noticed your work,” he says. “There are many other officials just as deserving.”
Being in office for only 16 months, Pennsylvania Representative Karen Boback for District 117 considers this award one of the highlights in her first term.
“The award came as a complete surprise,” Boback says. “When I received the congratulatory e-mail, I was astonished. I had to contact the paper to make sure that I understood it correctly. It is an outstanding experience, to say the least.”
Noting this as a humble experience, Boback is thankful and promises to make the community proud.
“I like to think that those who nominated me see being State Representative not something I do, but something I live,” she added.
(Runner-up: Tom Leighton)
NIGHTLIFE
Best place to see a national act
Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain
Runner-up: Wachovia Arena
Best all-ages venue
Energy Under 21
Runner-up: Wachovia Arena
Best corner bar
Liam’s
Runner-up: Gonda’s
Best college bar
Senunas’
Runner-up: Beer Boys
Best dance club
Woodlands Inn & Resort
Runner-up: Tink’s
Best DJ
Bounce
Runner-up: King B
Best bar/restaurant staff
Arena Bar & Grill
Runner-up: Vic Mars
Best karaoke night
Ole Tyme Charley’s
Runner-up: Whistles
Best Irish bar
Liams
Runner-up: The Banshee
Best alternative lifestyle bar
Twist
Runner-up: The 12 Penny Saloon
Best martinis/cocktails
Fuse
Runner-up: Martini Bar & Grill
Best country bar
Spurs
Runner-up: Honky Tonk
Best happy hour
Woodlands
Runner-up: Arena Bar & Grill
Best wine list
AV Lounge
Runner-up: Cork
Best beer selection
Arena Bar & Grill
Runner-up: Cooper’s – Pittston
Best bouncer
Jimmy Sperazza
Runner-up: Hot Dog Bob
Best smoke-free establishment
The Bog
Runner-up: AJ’s Club Soda
Best place to go after hours
GClub 10
Runner-up: Denny’s
SHOPS & SERVICES
Best auto sales
Jaden’s Auto Works
Runner-up: Motorworld
Best automobile service
Jaden’s Auto Works
Runner-up: Showstopper Customs
Best place to buy a motorcycle
Rider’s World
Runner-up: Two Jack’s Cycle
Best cell phone provider
Verizon
Runner-up: ATT
Best bowling alley
Chacko’s
Runner-up: South Side Bowl
Best bookstore
Barnes & Noble, Arena Hub Plaza, Wilkes-Barre Twp.
Runner-up: Borders
Best furniture store
Ashley Furniture
Runner-up: EFO
Best place to buy a CD
Joe Nardone’s Gallery of Sound
Runner-up: Best Buy, Arena Hub Plaza, Wilkes-Barre Twp.
Best gaming store
Game Stop, Wilkes-Barre
Runner-up: EB Games, Wyoming Valley Mall
Best place to buy musical instruments
Music Go Round
Runner-up: Guitar Center
Best place to shop for a new pipe
Utopia
Runner-up: Magikal Garden
Best plastic surgeon
Dr. Francis Collini
Runner-up: Dr. Eric Blomain
Best day spa
RenuvenEssence
Runners-up: Sapphire / Alexander’s
Best place to get a massage
Woodhouse Day Spa
Runner-up: Sapphire
Best hair salon
Style Tee
Runner-up: Euphoria
Best nail salon
Get Nailed
Runner-up: Nails Etc.
Best tanning salon
Hollywood Tans, Wilkes-Barre
Runners-up: Copacatana / Premiere
Best tattoo/piercing parlor
Marc’s Tattooing
Runner-up: 5-7-0 Tattooing Co.
Best men’s clothing store
Royal Blu
Runner-up: Express
Best women’s clothing store
Rampel
Runner-up: Panache
Best mini-market
Turkey Hill, N. Penn. Ave., Wilkes-Barre
Runner-up: Sheetz, Trucksville
PEOPLE & PLACES
Best local artist/painter/sculptor
Ron Russo
Runner-up: Justin Roach
Best local photographer
Tom Bonomo, EyeDesignStudios
Runner-up: Eddie Donlin, Studio D
Best local art gallery
The Gallery at Pierce Plaza
Runner-up: Marquis Art & Frame, Wilkes-Barre
Best local columnist
Alan K. Stout, Weekender
Runner-up: Don McGlynn, The Abington Journal/Weekender
Best local cover band
M80
Runner-up: 40-lb. Head
Best local indie band
The Mess
Runner-up: And the Moneynotes
Best local original band
Owen’s Grudge
Runner-up: Panacea
Best local weatherperson
Joe Snedeker
Runner-up: Tom Clark
Best local TV personality
Joe Snedeker
Runner-up: Paola Giangiacomo
Best local TV station
WNEP
Runner-up: WBRE
Best local radio station
979X
Runner-up: 97.1 BHT
Best local radio personality
Jim Bone, 979X
Runner-up: Jeff Walker, 98.5 KRZ
Best local college
King’s College
Runner-up: Wilkes University
Best local college professor
Ed Ackerman, L.C.C.C.
Runner-up: Jayne Moore, King’s College
Best local bazaar
St. Nick’s, Wilkes-Barre
Runner-up: Breslau
Best local softball league
Kingston Rec
Runner-up: Brews Brothers
Best local dart league
Liams
Runner-up: Big House, Breslau
Best local golf course
Blue Ridge
Runners-up: Fox Hill / Hollenback
Best local hotel
The Woodlands
Runner-up: Radisson
Best local gym
Danko’s
Runner-up: Maximum Health & Fitness
Best local trainer
Sal Peperno
Runner-up: Pat Barnes
Best local fitness/mind & body class
Kelly’s Fitness
Runner-up: Maximum Health & Fitness
Best local martial arts
Jim Ambrose
Runner-up: Grant’s Martial Arts
Best movie theater
Cinemark
Runner-up: W-B Movies14
Best bike night
Outsiders
Runner-up: Lone Star Steakhouse
Best car show
Droptoberfest, L.C.C.C.
Runner-up: Scranton Regional Car Club
EATS
Favorite beer
Miller Lite
Runner-up: Coors Light
Best lunch
Pierce Street Deli
Runner-up: T.G.I. Friday’s
Best deli
Pierce Street Deli
Runner-up: Goldstein’s
Best desserts
Minooka Bakery
Runner-up: Dairy Queen
Best ice cream
The Lands at Hillside Farms
Runner-up: Dairy Queen
Best bakery
Bakery Delite
Runner-up: Sanitary Bakery
Best sushi
Katana
Runner-up: Kyoto
Best coffee bar
Starbucks, Wilkes-Barre
Runner-up: Northern Lights
Best sub shop
Subway, Wilkes-Barre
Runner-up: Philadelphia Subs
Best burgers
5 Guys
Runner-up: Red Robin
Best fries
5 Guys
Runner-up: Hops & Barleys
Best diner
Eddie’s Diner
Runner-up: Andy’s River Road Diner
Best formal dining
Isabella
Runner-up: AV Lounge
Best hot dog shop
Abe’s, South Main Street, Wilkes-Barre
Runner-up: Coney Island
Best Chinese restaurant
Peking Chef
Runner-up: Asian Cafe
Best Italian restaurant
Olive Garden
Runner-up: Leggio’s
Best Japanese restaurant
Katana
Runner-up: Kyoto
Best Mexican restaurant
La Tolteca
Runner-up: Don Pablo’s
Best ethnic restaurant
Thai Thai
Runner-up: Amber Indian
Best restaurant for vegetarians
Amber Indian
Runner-up: Thai Thai
Best pizza
Revello’s
Runner-up: Frank’s
Best seafood
Cooper’s, Pittston
Runner-up: Red Lobster
Best steakhouse
Outback Steakhouse
Runner-up: Lone Star Steakhouse
Best buffet
Old Country Buffet
Runner-up: Super King, Edwardsville
Best chain restaurant
Olive Garden
Runner-up: T.G.I. Friday’s
Best overall restaurant
Vic Mars
Runner-up: Pacer’s Clubhouse at Mohegan Sun
Best new restaurant
Thai Thai
Runner-up: Cork
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XXX
Best strip club
GClub 10
Runner-up: Diamond Club
Best exotic dancer/pole dancer
Paige, GClub 10
Runner-up: Jen, GClub 10
Best place to buy porn
Adult World
Runner-up: Playtime Boutique
Best place to get sex toys/accessories
Adult World
Runner-up: Mr. Fashions
w
go:
What: Weekender Readers’ Choice party
When: Wednesday, April 30, open to public at 8 p.m.
Where: Oyster, 77 E. Market St., Wilkes-Barre (inside Genetti’s)