Best Public Servant
Gold – Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell
Silver – Cripple Creek Police Department
Bronze – Former Woodland Park Mayor John Carr
Last year’s Champ – Cripple Creek Police Department
In a slight changing of the guard, Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell got the top nod as the region’s premiere public servant. As the sheriff and a veteran of the department for decades, Mikesell has faced many challenges during his reign. But the sheriff has taken major steps to boost department morale, and has put a halt to the revolving door syndrome that plagued past administrations.
Mikesell also was complimented on how he handled the coronavirus epidemic, and urged officials to open up the county more. Then, there has been the agency’s strong response to an unprecedented hike in drug-related cases and criminal activity occurring in the High Country. The times have definitely changed for Teller County. The Cripple Creek Police Department once again snagged many tallies. Cripple Creek PD has become an integral part of the community. Many voters cast tallies for former Woodland Park Mayor Val Carr, who recently died following a courageous fight with COVID-19.
Best Car Dealership
Gold – Phil Long Dealerships
Silver – Heuberger Subaru
Bronze – Bradley Ford/Mike Maroone Volkswagen
In a new competition, the Phil Long Dealership, which has offered some great deals during the pandemic, won as the area’s best car dealer by a convincing margin. Phil Long was praised for their service and the quality of their vehicles, not to mention some great deals and a massive inventory. The Phil Long Dealership offers more than 3,000 new and used vehicles.
Best Realtor
Gold – Carrie Miller
Silver – Irene Tanis
Bronze – Kellie Case
In another new competition, Carrie Miller was declared as the area’s best realtor. She has gained quite a reputation for years, and knows the nuances of our changing market. Miller also has been praised for her friendly and common-sense demeanor. Tanis, meanwhile, snagged the silver and Kellie Case, who also serves on the Woodland Park City Council, was awarded the bronze.
Best Electrician
Gold – Ace Electric
Silver – Hedges Electric
Bronze – Woodland Park Electric.
The three main contenders for this title have established quite a reputation in Woodland Park and surrounding areas. So much for the myth that the High Country is lacking in electric and home improvement services.
*Due to space limitations, we will provide more Best Of Winners and Finalists next week in our March 23 issue.
More specifically, the victors in our highly-contested individual competitions will be revealed, along with a variety of miscellaneous and special niche contests. Also, make sure to visit our website www.mountainjackpot.com and our Facebook page for more Best Of updates and forthcoming profiles on some of the top winners.
