The Best of Cape gather for awards luncheon
When Shannon Weimar, owner of “Let’s Face It,” learned she had won the award for Best Facials for the annual “Best of Cape Coral,” she was beyond excited, as it was the first time she had won an award like this after three years
“I cried and screamed when they called me. I was just very grateful. I didn’t expect it at all but I’m very happy,” Weimar said. “It means everything. I started my own business without working for anyone else, to do this makes me very happy.”
On Wednesday, Weimar and dozens of other business owners and reps gathered at Cape Cabaret for the Cape Coral Breeze “Best of” winners luncheon, a readers-choice commendation.
While “Best of” has long been an annual tradition, the luncheon was not held for two years because of COVID. Organizers then had to work around Southwest Florida’s worst hurricane in decades.
Lynette McElhaney, senior account executive for the Breeze Newspapers, said the company holds a readership poll every year, which went digital this year, where participants pick the best in dozens of categories.
“It’s a way to honor our advertisers throughout the year in the community and let them know who they are and what they are best for and it brings new clients to them as being honored as the best,” McElhaney said.
Those attending agreed it was a great event for first-time and long-time winners alike.
Among the long-time winners was Dr. Mel Youngs Chiropractic Physicians and Associates, which has been voted the best Chiropractor for 21 straight years, and won two other awards. While Youngs was unable to attend, her associates attended in her stead.
“We’re that good. We love what we do. We don’t consider it a job. I love to take care of our patients and what we do is very valuable,” said Carrie Lachermeier, who works with Youngs. “It feels good to be recognized for what we do and what we’re passionate about.”
“Best of” honors those who not only won for best restaurant or best bar, but also niche categories like best ax throwing or best chowder and Coney dog.
Rumrunners won one of the jewel awards for best restaurant, along with waterfront dining and best view. Joe Henning, general manager, said they were thrilled to win it.
“We’ve done a lot of new things like live music, new menus and different things. It’s quite an honor to be named best restaurant,” Henning said.
Jessica Howard, bartender at The Dek, which won for best Bar and wings (for the ninth time) said they are pretty amazing, which can give you some swagger.
“We are very consistent and we care about our guests. We like to have fun and have everybody have a good experience,” Howard said. “And the wings are amazing.”
“It’s hard being this awesome all the time. We strive for that every year,” said Dylan Fisher.
Jennifer Campos, office manager at Riverchase Dermatology, said winning awards for best dermatologist and dermatology center is a real boost to their business.
“It shows our patient dedication and that our patients are willing to go to something so good,” Campos said. “We’re passionate about our patients’ skin.”
Vincent Murillo, owner of Academy Home Development, was among the biggest winners, with seven plaques. He said it comes down to customer service.
“I guess people love our hospitality and how we treat them. Our final product is a killer,” said Murillo, who has won an award six straight years. “We build homes, kitchens, outdoor kitchens. You name it, we do it. We’re the best of Cape Coral.”
Non-profits also get recognized.
One was the Cape Coral Animal Shelter & Vet clinic.
Liz McCauley, executive director, said for them to get this award just two years after opening, was special.
“We’re blessed with these awards, especially considering her young we are. We won best non-profit and best low-cost animal clinic, and we’re proud of that,” McCauley said. “We help animals and people. We find homes for animals and we help people by providing affordable care.”
To reach CHUCK BALLARO, please email news@breezenewspapers.com