Best of Alaska Business 2020
2020 Best of Alaska Business
The sun is out, the salmon are running, and your votes are in
W
elcome to the 5th Annual Best of Alaska Business awards. First and foremost, thank you to our readers who took the time to nominate the businesses that you see provide exceptional services to Alaskans. We publish the results, but you awarded these businesses with recognition for the hard work they do in their very varied fields.
To our winners: congratulations. While we review our survey process every year, year after year we’ve opted for a write-in process so that our readers can tell us what companies they value without us influencing their choices. You’ve earned these accolades, and we feel privileged to pass them along.
Best of Alaska Business 2020
2020 Best of Alaska Business
The sun is out, the salmon are running, and your votes are in
W
elcome to the 5th Annual Best of Alaska Business awards. First and foremost, thank you to our readers who took the time to nominate the businesses that you see provide exceptional services to Alaskans. We publish the results, but you awarded these businesses with recognition for the hard work they do in their very varied fields.
To our winners: congratulations. While we review our survey process every year, year after year we’ve opted for a write-in process so that our readers can tell us what companies they value without us influencing their choices. You’ve earned these accolades, and we feel privileged to pass them along.
For our part, the Best of Alaska Business awards fit perfectly within our mission to support Alaska businesses and provide timely, in-depth information to and about the business community. We especially appreciate how these awards allow us to highlight many of Alaska’s locally-owned and small businesses that have a big impact on the communities in which they operate.
And of course, we take the opportunity every July to utilize an incredible pool of local artistic talent for our cover and throughout the special section. This year Annie Brace, founder of Corso Graphics, delighted us with the direction she took for the cover: our Best of Alaska Business special section is well represented with a vibrant, bold color palette, majestic mountains, and joyful salmon.
So while Alaska Business identifies categories and sets the stage for these awards, we can hardly take all the credit for this fantastic special section: it would be impossible without talented Alaskan artists, the feedback of our readers, and the exceptional Alaska businesses who inspire us all.
Editor’s Note: Some of the images published in this section were taken before the COVID-19 pandemic; the subjects therein may not be wearing face masks or practicing social distancing.
Best Fundraiser
Beans Cafe Bowls
Bean’s Café
Bean’s Café hosts a variety of fundraising efforts. The soup kitchen’s signature event—the Empty Bowl Project—features chili from homegrown chefs and creative bowl designs from local artists. And the best part: a donation affords you all the chili you can eat.Mayor’s Charity Ball
The Mayor’s Charity Ball was started in 1994 by a committee of dedicated volunteers. Since its inception, the Ball has raised more than $3.5 million. 100 percent of the net proceeds support the honored four charitable organizations for the given year.Covenant House
Covenant House Alaska’s Fire and Ice Ball is “one of Anchorage’s most elegant evenings” and one of the nonprofit’s biggest annual fundraisers. The proceeds from this premier black-tie event strengthen Covenant House’s mission to get vulnerable youth off the street and help end the cycle of homelessness.Photos provided by Bean’s Café
Best accounting firm
Danny Kreilkamp
Altman, Rogers & Co.
Altman, Rogers & Co. combines a small firm approach with big firm experience for its CPA services, operating in Anchorage, Soldotna, and Juneau. The firm’s core values comprise its “LEAD” philosophy (Leadership, Experience, Achievement, and Dedication) and inform . mission statement: “We LEAD through our innovative yet traditional knowledge of accounting and dedication to our passions: colleagues, clients, and community.”Rulien + Associates
With offices in Anchorage and Eagle River, Rulien’s services include bookkeeping, payroll, tax optimization, and financial advice. Its clients represent multiple industries, including healthcare, construction, veterinarians, and hospitality. Rulien’s service packages come in three categories: Foraker, St. Elias, and Denali… very apt for a Best of Alaska Business awardee.Swalling & Associates
Anchorage-based Swalling & Associates serves small to midsize Alaska businesses. According to the company, John C. Swalling founded the firm in 1991, “when the international accounting firms started migrating out of Alaska.” As an independent member firm of DFK International, the firm is able to tap worldwide resources in order to help local clients.
Best Law firm
stevanovicigor | Envato Elements
Birch Horton Bittner & Cherot
Legal firm Birch Horton Bittner & Cherot has offices in Anchorage and Washington, DC and “has a broad-ranging practice, representing individuals, association, coalitions, businesses, government entities, and Native corporations with interests in the nation’s capital.” The firm was established in Anchorage in 1971 and opened its Washington, DC office in 1975.Landye Bennett Blumstein
“Simply great lawyers,” is the assertion of Landye Bennett Blumstein, which has offices in Anchorage and Portland, Oregon. Attorneys at the firm specialize in real estate, business tax, plaintiffs’ cases, litigation, and Native American law, and according to the firm, “The lawyers who’ve chosen to practice at Landye Bennett Blumstein are here for a reason: they’re talented.”Foley & Pearson
Foley & Pearson, a full-service estate planning and probate firm, had its early beginnings in Anchorage in 1987; today it offers services including estate and estate tax planning, wills, Alaska probate, community property agreements, and a range of trusts: for children, administration in the event of incapacity or death, domestic asset protection, or pets.
Best Salon
Danny Kreilkamp
The Beauty Room
“A day spa for the eternally hip,” reads the headline of this Best of Alaska Business winner’s website. The Beauty Room offers a range of both wedding and salon services. Drop by its Northern Lights location for a complimentary consultation or to browse its exclusive-to-Anchorage Bumble and bumble product line.Hi Rollers Salon
Owner Paula and the hairdressers at Hi Rollers Salon have been serving Anchorage for more than fifteen years. Located in the O’Malley Plaza next door to WineStyles, Hi Rollers’ extended hours—open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.—is just one draw for prospective clients.(907) 349-4247
Allure Day Spa & Hair Design
Allure Day Spa & Hair Design is an award-winning salon and spa in downtown Anchorage, with the aim of providing an experience rather than an appointment. Browse its extensive service menu, which includes massage therapy and the salon’s famous vichy treatments. Book online or in person for all of your self-care needs.Danny Kreilkamp
Best Commercial Real Estate Firm
Frampton & Opinsky
Frampton & Opinsky boasts “one of the largest leasing and management portfolios of quality properties in Anchorage.” In addition to its portfolio, the company provides services that include consulting, project development, and construction management. Frampton & Opinsky also owns AnchorTown Maintenance, which provides maintenance services managed by the firm as well as other Anchorage properties.BSI
This is the second consecutive year that Baker Spoerhase Investments (BSI) has claimed the St. Elias Award. BSI specializes in properties that include office buildings, industrial structures, retail spaces, hotels, and multifamily developments. Notable work includes land acquisition for the proposed natural gas facility at Point MacKenzie and real estate services for auto dealer Kendall.Jack White Real Estate
“We are proud to be the largest independent real estate company in Alaska,” states Jack White Real Estate. The company covers an area that spans the entire state, from Prudhoe Bay to Anchorage, Kodiak to Ketchikan. The company credits its success to its people: “We back up our associates with comprehensive training, sophisticated technology, innovative marketing, and supportive management.”mixmotive | iStock
Best Hospital
Providence Hospital
Providence Alaska Health & Services
Providence locations are found throughout Southcentral from Anchorage to Valdez. The nonprofit Catholic network of healthcare services is “guided by a mission of caring that the Sisters of Providence began in the west nearly 160 years ago.” In the past year, Providence has expanded with a line of ExpressCare clinics in Anchorage and Eagle River.Alaska Regional Hospital
Alaska Regional Hospital offers a broad spectrum of health services thanks to a team that includes more than 1,000 employees and a medical staff of more than 550 independent practitioners. Since 1994, Alaska Regional has been a member of HCA Healthcare, one of the nation’s largest healthcare providers. As a result, Alaskans are given access to many advanced medical resources.Alaska Native Medical Center
Jointly owned by the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium and Southcentral Foundation, ANMC specializes in comprehensive healthcare for the state’s Alaska Native and American Indian residents. ANMC prides itself as “home to one of America’s most unique healthcare environments—a place where the highest quality care and cutting-edge technology meets special cultural and traditional services and customer experiences.”
Best staffing agency
Danny Kreilkamp
Alaska Executive Search
Established in 1977, AES is among Alaska’s longest-running staffing agencies. The team consists of recruiters with specialized expertise in multiple industries who work closely with driven job candidates. AES helps develop candidates’ professional skills while also advocating their placement at the many leading Alaska companies that have placed their trust in the agency.Opti Staffing Group
Opti’s Pacific Northwest scope includes Anchorage and locations in Washington and Oregon. The agency has found its niche in high-level placements for small to midsize companies. Along with a thorough vetting process to connect clients with top talent, Opti provides an abundance of resources for potential employers and employees.Personnel Plus
With offices in Fairbanks and Anchorage, Personnel Plus provides temporary and permanent staffing options for employers. Additionally, it offers a “Temporary to Permanent” placement option, which affords clients the ability to “try out” an employee before committing to a full-time job offer. The agency’s workforce totals more than 500 permanent and temporary workers.Best Cellular Service Provider
criene | Twenty20
AT&T
AT&T makes an array of communications devices and services available to its customers: TV, internet, wireless, as well as phones, tablets, smartwatches, hotspots, accessories, and more. In Alaska, AT&T has expanded its stores, coverage area, and data speeds in recent years, giving Alaskans more options and better access in an increasingly digital world.GCI
Alaska. “Hometown 5G is an investment of millions of dollars in Anchorage alone—paving the path for innovation that can help Anchorage become more energy efficient, spur economic growth, and provide an improved quality of life,” the company states.Verizon
In Alaska Verizon offers HD Voice and data services on its 4G LTE network, which provides coverage to many areas of the state, including parts of Southcentral, Southeast, Kodiak, the Interior, and the North Slope. Verizon says, “We transform how people, business, and things connect with each other through innovative communications and technology solutions.”Best Hotel
Joshua Lowman
The Hotel Captain Cook
Alaska’s Hotel Captain Cook is a perfect “basecamp for adventure” situated comfortably in the heart of downtown Anchorage. As the only member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts Worldwide in Alaska, the Captain Cook houses four distinctive restaurants and offers extraordinary retail and cultural experiences just steps from the front door.Embassy Suites Anchorage
Anchorage’s Embassy Suites are located within six miles of downtown and the Anchorage International Airport, offering free shuttle service in addition to a number of other welcoming amenities. Their midtown location is perfectly situated for exploring the city and a stone’s throw away from the newly renovated Midtown Mall.Hilton
The tallest hotel in town and overlooking some of the city’s finest views, the Hilton in Downtown Anchorage offers guests all the comfort and convenience they could desire. With an indoor fitness center, pool, steam room, and business center that is open 24-hours a day, you might want to consider extending your stay.Best Client Lunch
Rawpixel | Envato Elements
Simon & Seafort’s
Anchorage locals lovingly refer to this restaurant simply as “Simon’s.” Simon & Seafort’s describes its culinary style as “upscale-casual American fare with a contemporary interpretation of beloved classic cuisine, perfect for any occasion.” In addition to its popular food, the establishment is well known for its panoramic views overlooking Cook Inlet, Mount Susitna, and the Alaska Range.49th State Brewing Company
If yours is a beer-friendly client lunch, 49th State Brewing Company prides itself on its “world-class brews with amazing views.” Even if beer isn’t your thing, the latter half of that boast is still enough to keep Anchorage residents coming in droves. With two cozy outdoor levels for comfy dining underneath abundant sunshine, 49th State is a must in the summer.Jens’ Restaurant
The late Jens Hansen was a hit among Alaska’s dining scene, and the restaurant he opened in 1988 serves as his legacy. It also serves a lunch menu that is a celebration of seafood (salmon, rockfish, scallops, and more), but don’t sleep on the “by now almost world famous” pepper steak. There are also Danish specialties—Jens’ nod to his Scandinavian roots.Best Swag Supplier
seregam | Envato Elements
Alaska Serigraphics
Companies, schools, organizations, and individuals throughout the state have relied on Alaska Serigraphics since 1981. The late Mark L. Venit, a leading screen-printing consultant, attested: “In case you’re wondering which of the hundreds of showrooms I’ve visited personally wins my endorsement as the best in the industry, it’s at the home of Alaska Serigraphics in Anchorage, Alaska.”Stellar Designs
Stellar Designs’ online store has you (literally) covered. From sportswear to safety apparel to sunglasses, Stellar Designs makes a name stand out utilizing quality material. The company’s advice: “Brand the brands they love.” Accordingly, it provides merchandising options that use some of the world’s top names in apparel, such as CamelBak, Nike, and Eddie Bauer.Klondike Promotions
Locally-owned and -operated Klondike Promotions enjoys the business of more than 400 accounts nationwide. Klondike has earned its clients’ trust as an early adopter of the Promotional Products Association’s Consumer Product Safety Initiative. Each of Klondike’s suppliers provides products meeting a high level of safety standards, which translates to happy clients with Alaska-ready gear.Best Coffee Shop
Kaladi Brothers Coffee
Kaladi Brothers Coffee
Kaladi Brothers is a longtime favorite among Alaskans. In fact, this is the fifth consecutive year Kaladi has earned the Denali award in the Best of Alaska Business awards. With sixteen shops around Alaska and one in Seattle, the “red goat” brand has grown to represent both a dedication to quality coffee-making and the company’s “Catalyst for Community” philosophy.Kindred Spirits Café
This cozy South Anchorage coffee shop is located inside the ice rinks of the O’Malley Sports Center and has become an ideal refueling stop for on-the-go hockey parents and fans. According to Kindred Spirits, “We love serving our fast moving customers with a smile and a friendly spirit.” That spirit has extended to another location in downtown Anchorage.(907) 344-6911
SteamDot
Believe it or not, SteamDot’s catchy name emerged thanks to Anchorage’s rail yards. The company’s first roaster was in a shed across from the locomotive parking lot. According to the SteamDot, “We fell in love with the play on words between billowing steam from trains and espresso machines and the dot on the map where our beginnings took root.”Best Large event venue
Dena’ina Civic & Convention Center
Dena’ina Civic & Convention Center
There are 200,000 square feet of flexible event space at the Dena’ina Center; the largest single space is a 72,240-square-foot banquet and exhibit hall that can fit 390 vendor booths. “The largest, most modern facility of its kind in the state, Dena’ina is ideal for events from national conventions and tradeshows to local meetings, banquets, and special occasions,” the center states.Alaska Airlines Center
The Alaska Airlines Center is a sports and community center that serves UAA as well as the greater Anchorage community and region hosting sports and entertainment events. Located on the UAA campus, the center has a 5,000 seat athletic arena, 800 seat auxiliary gym, sports medicine suites, indoor two-lane walking and jogging track, and gymnastics training and competition gym.Hotel Captain Cook
The Discovery Ballroom at the Hotel Captain Cook is a convenient and flexible space for large events, conferences, or conventions. In total the room is 9,000 square feet and can be divided into three separate spaces (The Fore Deck, Mid Deck, and Aft Deck) to accommodate a vendors’ hall, lecture space, dining area, or other activity—all for the same event.Dena’ina Civic & Convention Center
Best small event venue
Danny Kreilkamp
49th State Brewing Co.
When 49th State Brewing Co. moved into its iconic Anchorage location on 3rd Avenue downtown, the ownership team was passionate about using local talent to create a comfortable, beautiful space while respecting the history of the century-old building, which offers indoor and outdoor spaces with a variety of catering and drink options—perfect for any small to midsize event.Hotel Captain Cook
Hotel Captain Cook has a variety of rooms that can accommodate small events or meetings in Tower I, including seven rooms on the lower lobby level and four rooms on the 10th floor. To improve the conference experience, Hotel Captain Cook offers in-house catering, complimentary WiFi, and a 24-hour business center.Williwaw
“Williwaw loves a good party,” the downtown venue says. Private parties, special events, or businesses looking for somewhere novel to host a meeting or small conference can take advantage of Williwaw’s offerings, including multiple rooms, a full bar, in-house sound and visual systems, and catering. Williwaw is smoke free and handicap accessible to make every guest feel welcome.
Best catering
Photos by Peppercini’s
Peppercini’s
Started in the University Center by brothers Jason and Jeremy Kimmel, Peppercini’s has been a staple in Anchorage since 2007. The beloved sandwich shop provides catering, lunch delivery, and take out orders—all of which include free delivery. Peppercini’s also provides charitable contributions to a number of Alaskan organizations.Sweet Caribou
Sweet Caribou is an Alaskan family-owned patisserie that strives to use high quality, often locally sourced ingredients. Sweet Caribou believes in top-shelf service for both its customers and community. Always made from scratch, its catering efforts specialize in “show-stopping macaron towers” and artisan lunch bowls.Main Event Catering
A mainstay of this Best of Alaska Business category, Main Event Catering boasts extensive catering options and a personal approach to meeting its clients’ catering needs. With a mixture of set and customizable menu offerings, the hardworking and detail-oriented staff at Main Event Catering will be sure to make any event one to remember.Best Brewery
49th State Brewing Company
Year after year, 49th State Brewing has been voted as your go-to place to grab a brew. award-winning food and array of draft beer. The brewpub’s rooftop patio offers scenic views of Cook Inlet and Mount Susitna, serving as a refreshing complement to its award-winning food and array of draft beer.King Street Brewing Company
Renowned for its wide-mouth cans of one of the finest IPAs in town, the brewery at King Street’s southside location is a spectacle—with more seating options and taps than you’ll know what to do with, you might have to grab a flight and try them all. If you need a snack, wander outside for an offering from one of their rotating food trucks.Matanuska Brewing Company
Matanuska Brewing Company’s wildly successful midtown and downtown brewpubs offer Anchorage residents a perfect opportunity to catch a game or listen to some live music. For Palmer residents, be sure to check out their brewing headquarters to see where the magic happens.Photos by Danny Kreilkamp
Best Cannabis Retailer
Danny Kreilkamp
Enlighten Alaska
Enlighten Alaska opened its doors in 2017, making it one of the first retail cannabis shops in Anchorage. The family-owned and –operated store says, “As a shop, we hold a strong belief in the positive, healing properties of cannabis… We view ourselves as stewards of the cannabis industry, and we take that responsibility very seriously.”Hollyweed 907
Hollyweed 907 launched in 2018 in Anchorage on 88th Avenue between Lake Otis and Abbott. The store’s interior was designed by Wallace Swanson of LCG Lantech and “highlights a modern storefront environment complete with a viewing window into the state-of-the art kitchen which produces the in-house edibles and concentrates.”Dankorage
Dankorage is located in midtown Anchorage and is operated by life-long Alaskans who also own and operate The Fairbanks Cut in the Interior. “We’ve opened these stores to not only provide our customers with the best of the best, but to also support local business within our community… With seasoned BudMasters on staff, your cannabis questions are ALWAYS welcome!”Best Pizzeria
grafvision | Envato Elements
Moose’s Tooth
Anchorage’s Moose’s Tooth has become a veritable institution in Alaska’s culinary scene. The popular shop is acclaimed nationwide for its plethora of pie selections and original craft beers. Visit its sister location, the Bear Tooth Theatrepub, for a wide range of entertainment options.Uncle Joe’s Pizzeria
Uncle Joe’s combines a love for feels-like-home gourmet pizza with a respect for modern pie-making. Diners can choose an old-fashioned New York style crust, spent grain vegan wheat crust, or even a cauliflower-based gluten-free crust. Uncle Joe’s also features favorites that include baked Italian subs, wings, entrée salads, and plenty of local beers.Pizza Man
Eagle River’s Pizza Man, with its unassuming stick figure logo, has been a local favorite for more than thirty-five years. The shop has earned a run of consecutive local awards and in 2015 earned Tripadvisor’s Certificate of Excellence. Pizza Man prides itself on a comfortable, casual dining experience that “combines the feeling of home and the tastes of Italy.”Best Furniture Store
Danny Kreilkamp
Bailey’s Furniture
Bailey’s is an iconic Alaskan-grown furniture seller with locations in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Soldotna, and Wasilla and roots stretching back to 1990. The company says, “We built this store for our customers to enjoy the furniture buying process with no pressure or stress! Take your time, have fun, and enjoy the Bailey’s shopping experience!”Sadler’s Home Furnishings
Sadler’s got its start as a tiny store in Chugiak in 1972. Today it remains 100 percent Alaskan-owned and is one of the largest home furniture retailers in the state. The company says, “We carefully listen to the needs of our customers… We continue to serve our customers just like they were our neighbors—because they are!”Scan Home Furniture
Scan Home is the product of a dream to “bring moderately-priced disassembled contemporary Scandinavian furniture to the Alaska market,” that took its first steps in 1983. Today the retailer continues to operate in midtown Anchorage and says, “Everything that Scan Home carries is intended to be of ‘good value,’ whether it be some of our lower-priced merchandise or our higher-end exclusive styles.”Pip
Best Printer
PIP
According to PIP, after forty years of operations, “We’re the go-to resource for businesses that want marketing, signs, and print expertise from a company who’s been an industry leader for decades.” In addition to signs, marketing, and printing, PIP provides mailing services, promotional products, and website design and data services from its Anchorage location.Great Originals
Great Originals, fondly nicknamed ‘Great Os’ by clients and vendors, has provided printing and mailing services to Alaskans for more than thirty years with the goal of being a “One Stop Print Shop” for individuals and businesses in the Alaska market and beyond. The company’s services include business cards, letterhead and envelopes, postcards and rack cards, wide format printing, and specialty items, including binding.Color Art Printing
Established on 7th Avenue in Anchorage in 1958, Color Art Printing has a “colorful history.” Despite many changes at the company and in the community over the past several decades, today it continues its commitment to provide Alaskans with “affordable, high-quality printing.” According to the local printer, “Our success and growth has been the result of building business partnerships in Alaska and not just filling orders.”Danny Kreilkamp | Pip
Best Florist
Photos by Danny Kreilkamp
Bagoy’s Florist & Home
Employees at the vibrant, family-owned Bagoy’s are as welcoming as they are helpful. The people at Bagoy’s are firm believers in their products, which they feel give recipients “a little infusion of life.” Bagoy’s legacy shop has been serving the Anchorage community for nearly a century racking up award after award, year after year.Uptown Blossoms
Uptown Blossoms is a full service florist operating in the Anchorage area that also offers shipping to Bush communities. Boasting an impressive average of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Yelp, Uptown Blossoms provides upscale and creative bouquets in addition to a variety of seasonal giftware and home accessories.Hummel’s Flowers
The owners of Hummel’s Flowers believe in preserving the environment while providing a “legendary” level of customer service to ensure customers keep coming back for all of life’s most special occasions. Located on the corner of Fireweed and C Street in Anchorage, drop in Monday through Friday before 5 p.m. to appreciate the florists’ imaginative creations.Best Place to Work
1-250 employees
Danny Kreilkamp
PDC Engineers
Offering a comprehensive benefits package that includes tuition reimbursement and professional development support, 100 percent employee-owned PDC Engineers offers a range of services as varied as the professionals it employs: a mix of engineers, surveyors, planners, drafters, and environmental analysts.Altman, Rogers & Co.
Full service accounting and tax firm Altman, Rogers & Co. combines “the experience of a large firm with the personal attention that only a small firm can provide.” This expertise translates to employee development as well—providing the culture, resources, and support that shape the next generation of successful Alaskan professionals.Bean’s Café
With a mission to fight hunger and provide a platform for self-sufficiency, Bean’s Café draws on an inspiring number of volunteers in addition to its paid staff to serve the underserved. The local nonprofit is a shining example of positive change in the Anchorage community thanks to the hardworking people that keep this institution running.Best Place to Work
250+ employees
First National Bank Alaska
For the fifth year running, First National Bank Alaska takes home gold. The organization’s mission statement, which is now almost a century old, lists having a pleasant working environment for its employees at the forefront of its goals. Board Chair and CEO Betsy Lawer describes this tenet as an “integral part of the bank’s culture.”GCI
GCI is no stranger to this Best of Alaska Business category. At GCI, employees are the company’s most valuable resource. The telecommunications giant is always looking to bring in “trailblazers”—people with a constant desire to elevate the experience—for sales and marketing, engineering, IT, and programming, among other sought after positions.Credit Union 1
Credit Union 1’s employee benefits are myriad—not least for the progressive inclusion of paternity leave. Members of the not-for-profit credit union’s team are also eligible for special employee-only loan opportunities that include a clothing allowance, as well as interest rate discounts on consumer loans and closed-end real estate loans.First National Bank Alaska
Best gym
The Alaska Club
The Alaska Club
As one of the most recognizable fitness brands in town, it should be no surprise to see The Alaska Club among this year’s batch of winners, voted as Alaska’s premier gym. Group fitness classes, top notch swimming facilities, and those oh-so-sweet locker rooms—The Alaska Club has “all parts of you” covered.Planet Fitness
Planet Fitness’ core goal has always been to create an environment that is as welcoming as it is affordable. With monthly memberships as low as $10 and personal trainers at your beck and call, starting or continuing your fitness journey at this international fitness giant is as safe a bet as any.Body Renew Fitness
As they like to say, “It’s more than a membership, it’s a relationship.” Body Renew Fitness professionals pride themselves on offering personally-tailored membership plans to help everyone reach their fitness goals. The gym also boasts an impressive collection of amenities that include state-of-the-art exercise equipment, tanning, weight loss programs, and nutritional counseling.Best Creative/Design Agency
Brilliant Media Strategies
Operating since 1968, and formerly known as Bradley Reid, Brilliant Media Strategies produces creative marketing ideas across a wide spectrum of mediums—from print and video production to political campaign strategy. Brilliant’s decades-long portfolio has garnered the agency numerous awards, including multiple Emmys for its work with Arctic Slope Regional Corporation.Sundog Media
Sundog Media specializes in web design and develops sites for clients in multiple industries. Since its founding in 1996 “in a small garage next to our little 780-square-foot house in a small Anchorage, Alaska neighborhood,” Sundog has compiled a huge catalog of work for a team of six—all of whom work from home.Yuit Comms
According to the company, Yuit’s “holistic approach to communications is powered by partner-inspired collaboration.” As a result, creative flexibility allows the agency to design entire annual reports for Alaska Native corporations while also filming and implementing digital video advertisements for clients in the transportation and finance industries.Brilliant Media Strategies
Best Air Charter Service
Alaska Airlines
In addition to its well-known standard air passenger services, Alaska Airlines also offers chartered flights for large groups. Travelers can customize their itinerary, catering options, and departure from a standard terminal or private airport, as well as benefit from remote check-in and private TSA screening (as available), among other conveniences.Security Aviation
Security Aviation has been providing air services for more than three decades, transporting people and goods statewide, from time-sensitive materials to executives or non-critical medical patients. Security Aviation operates 24/7, and “with our extensive fleet, we offer more availability, flexibility, and versatility than ever before,” the company says.Rust’s Flying Service
Family-owned and -operated, Rust’s is the largest and oldest Lake Hood seaplane operator. The company specializes in providing “the Alaska experience” to locals and Outside travelers looking for bear viewing, flight seeing, or “fly-in fishing” experiences. According to the airline, “Each Rust’s pilot is selected for a combination of experience, skill, and knowledge.”best Auto Mechanic
Photos by Danny Kreilkamp
Big O’s Automotive
Big O’s Automotive provides “car services for all makes and models and for all types of car problems,” including alignments, engine and brake repair, and limited transmission services. Big O’s has been keeping Anchorage’s cars running since 1977 and is locally owned and operated with twelve technicians on staff.Continental Auto Group
Continental Auto Group operates several service centers in Anchorage and employs ASE certified, factory trained master technicians. The company keeps OEM Acura, Honda, Mazda, Nissan, Subaru, and Volvo parts in stock “so we can complete your order or repair quickly and get you back on the road.”Kendall Auto Alaska
Kendall Auto Alaska has service centers in Anchorage, Soldotna, Kenai, Wasilla, and Fairbanks, all of which are staffed with qualified technicians to meet the needs of any vehicle, no matter the make or model. The company offers complimentary shuttle services to drop off and pick up those with car service needs.ConocoPhillips
2020 Best Corporate Citizen
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ach year we ask you to tell us which companies you see making a positive difference in your community. Whether through monetary contributions or the commitment of that oh-so-precious commodity of time, each of the companies nominated for this year’s Best Corporate Citizen award has gone out of its way to enrich the communities in which it operates.
We’ve included every company nominated in this year’s reader survey and highlighted three that really stood out in 2019 for their philanthropic efforts. To say 2020 has been a rough year is a gross understatement, but with each other’s support, and the continuing philanthropic efforts of companies like those published here, we’ll make it through to better days. In no particular order, here are this year’s Editor’s Choice picks for Best Corporate Citizen.
ConocoPhillips
For the second consecutive year ConocoPhillips received your vote (and ours) for Best Corporate Citizen. Over the past two decades ConocoPhillips has donated nearly $120 million in support of social services, education, civic, arts, environmental, and health and safety initiatives statewide.MTA
The MTA Foundation promotes technology awareness, economic development, and entrepreneurship through education and other activities in the MTA member service area. One of those activities is MTA’s e-gaming tournament and continued focus on community building. Nearly $30,000 was raised for the MTA Foundation during MTA’s 2019 e-gaming tournament. Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines strives to strengthen and support the communities its employees, neighbors, and guests call home. The airline generally partners with nonprofit organizations, providing in-kind donations and sponsorships focused on youth skill development, diversity and inclusion, environmental sustainability, and socioeconomic mobility. In April, the Alaska Airlines Foundation provided more than 896,000 meals through a donation of $200,000 to fourteen food banks in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, California, and Hawaii.Corporate Citizen Nominees
49th State Brewing
Ahtna Incorporated
Alaska Communications
Alaska Enterprise Solutions
Alaska Executive Search
Alaska Farmland Trust
Alaska Lions
Alaska Premier Auctions
Alaska Railroad
Alaska Regional Hospital
Alaska Resource
Education
Alaska Small Business Development Center
Alaska USA
Altman, Rogers & Co
Alyeska Pipeline Service Company
Anchorage Community Theatre
Arctic Chiropractic
Rehab & Physical Therapy
Arctic Slope Regional Corporation
AT&T Alaska
Avis
Bear Tooth Theatrepub
Birch Horton Bittner & Cherot
BP Alaska
Bridge Builders of Alaska
Brilliant Media Strategies
Caffe D’Arte
Calista
Cape Fox Corporation
Carrs Safeway
Construction Machinery Industrial
Cook Inlet Tug & Barge
Credit Union 1
Denali Brewing Company
Design Alaska
Dimond Center Hotel
Doyon
Ahtna Incorporated
Alaska Communications
Alaska Enterprise Solutions
Alaska Executive Search
Alaska Farmland Trust
Alaska Lions
Alaska Premier Auctions
Alaska Railroad
Alaska Regional Hospital
Alaska Resource
Education
Alaska Small Business Development Center
Alaska USA
Altman, Rogers & Co
Alyeska Pipeline Service Company
Anchorage Community Theatre
Arctic Chiropractic
Rehab & Physical Therapy
Arctic Slope Regional Corporation
AT&T Alaska
Avis
Bear Tooth Theatrepub
Birch Horton Bittner & Cherot
BP Alaska
Bridge Builders of Alaska
Brilliant Media Strategies
Caffe D’Arte
Calista
Cape Fox Corporation
Carrs Safeway
Construction Machinery Industrial
Cook Inlet Tug & Barge
Credit Union 1
Denali Brewing Company
Design Alaska
Dimond Center Hotel
Doyon
DV3 Corp
ExxonMobil
Filipino Community Alaska
First National Bank Alaska
Franz Bakery
Furniture Enterprises
GCI
Great Alaskan Bush Company
Hames Corporation
Hecla Greens Creek
Hilcorp
Home Instead Senior Care
Homer Chamber of Commerce
Hotel Captain Cook
House of Bread
Kawerak, Inc.
Key Bank
Kinross Fort Knox
LONG Building
Technologies
Lynden
Marsh & McLennan Agency
Mat-Su Health
Foundation
Mat-Su Homebuilders Association
Matson
MobiBiz Marketing
Moose’s Tooth
MSI Communications
NANA
Nome Chamber of Commerce
Northern Hospitality Group
Northrim Bank
Odom Corporation
Oil Search
Parker, Smith & Feek
PDC Engineers
Peak Trust Company
ExxonMobil
Filipino Community Alaska
First National Bank Alaska
Franz Bakery
Furniture Enterprises
GCI
Great Alaskan Bush Company
Hames Corporation
Hecla Greens Creek
Hilcorp
Home Instead Senior Care
Homer Chamber of Commerce
Hotel Captain Cook
House of Bread
Kawerak, Inc.
Key Bank
Kinross Fort Knox
LONG Building
Technologies
Lynden
Marsh & McLennan Agency
Mat-Su Health
Foundation
Mat-Su Homebuilders Association
Matson
MobiBiz Marketing
Moose’s Tooth
MSI Communications
NANA
Nome Chamber of Commerce
Northern Hospitality Group
Northrim Bank
Odom Corporation
Oil Search
Parker, Smith & Feek
PDC Engineers
Peak Trust Company
Perfectionist Auto Sound
Polar Pediatrics
Polar Wire
Premier Electric
Providence Alaska
Quintillion
RDI
Rotary
RSA Engineering
Saltchuk
Seeds of Change
Seward Community Foundation
Skinny Raven Sports
Stellar Designs
Subway of Alaska
Sundog Media
Tastee Freez
The Alaska Club
The Anchorage Chamber of Commerce
The CIRI Foundation
The Foraker Group
Thompson & Co.
Umialik Insurance Company
Verizon
Wells Fargo
Yuit Comms
Polar Pediatrics
Polar Wire
Premier Electric
Providence Alaska
Quintillion
RDI
Rotary
RSA Engineering
Saltchuk
Seeds of Change
Seward Community Foundation
Skinny Raven Sports
Stellar Designs
Subway of Alaska
Sundog Media
Tastee Freez
The Alaska Club
The Anchorage Chamber of Commerce
The CIRI Foundation
The Foraker Group
Thompson & Co.
Umialik Insurance Company
Verizon
Wells Fargo
Yuit Comms
49th State Brewing
Ahtna Incorporated
Alaska Communications
Alaska Enterprise Solutions
Alaska Executive Search
Alaska Farmland Trust
Alaska Lions
Alaska Premier Auctions
Alaska Railroad
Alaska Regional Hospital
Alaska Resource
Education
Alaska Small Business Development Center
Alaska USA
Altman, Rogers & Co
Alyeska Pipeline Service Company
Anchorage Community Theatre
Arctic Chiropractic
Rehab & Physical Therapy
Arctic Slope Regional Corporation
AT&T Alaska
Avis
Bear Tooth Theatrepub
Birch Horton Bittner & Cherot
BP Alaska
Bridge Builders of Alaska
Brilliant Media Strategies
Caffe D’Arte
Calista
Cape Fox Corporation
Carrs Safeway
Construction Machinery Industrial
Cook Inlet Tug & Barge
Credit Union 1
Denali Brewing Company
Design Alaska
Dimond Center Hotel
Doyon
DV3 Corp
ExxonMobil
Filipino Community Alaska
First National Bank Alaska
Franz Bakery
Furniture Enterprises
GCI
Great Alaskan Bush Company
Hames Corporation
Hecla Greens Creek
Hilcorp
Home Instead Senior Care
Homer Chamber of Commerce
Hotel Captain Cook
House of Bread
Kawerak, Inc.
Key Bank
Kinross Fort Knox
LONG Building
Technologies
Lynden
Marsh & McLennan Agency
Mat-Su Health
Foundation
Mat-Su Homebuilders Association
Matson
MobiBiz Marketing
Moose’s Tooth
MSI Communications
NANA
Nome Chamber of Commerce
Northern Hospitality Group
Northrim Bank
Odom Corporation
Oil Search
Parker, Smith & Feek
PDC Engineers
Peak Trust Company
Perfectionist Auto Sound
Polar Pediatrics
Polar Wire
Premier Electric
Providence Alaska
Quintillion
RDI
Rotary
RSA Engineering
Saltchuk
Seeds of Change
Seward Community Foundation
Skinny Raven Sports
Stellar Designs
Subway of Alaska
Sundog Media
Tastee Freez
The Alaska Club
The Anchorage Chamber of Commerce
The CIRI Foundation
The Foraker Group
Thompson & Co.
Umialik Insurance Company
Verizon
Wells Fargo
Yuit Comms
Ahtna Incorporated
Alaska Communications
Alaska Enterprise Solutions
Alaska Executive Search
Alaska Farmland Trust
Alaska Lions
Alaska Premier Auctions
Alaska Railroad
Alaska Regional Hospital
Alaska Resource
Education
Alaska Small Business Development Center
Alaska USA
Altman, Rogers & Co
Alyeska Pipeline Service Company
Anchorage Community Theatre
Arctic Chiropractic
Rehab & Physical Therapy
Arctic Slope Regional Corporation
AT&T Alaska
Avis
Bear Tooth Theatrepub
Birch Horton Bittner & Cherot
BP Alaska
Bridge Builders of Alaska
Brilliant Media Strategies
Caffe D’Arte
Calista
Cape Fox Corporation
Carrs Safeway
Construction Machinery Industrial
Cook Inlet Tug & Barge
Credit Union 1
Denali Brewing Company
Design Alaska
Dimond Center Hotel
Doyon
DV3 Corp
ExxonMobil
Filipino Community Alaska
First National Bank Alaska
Franz Bakery
Furniture Enterprises
GCI
Great Alaskan Bush Company
Hames Corporation
Hecla Greens Creek
Hilcorp
Home Instead Senior Care
Homer Chamber of Commerce
Hotel Captain Cook
House of Bread
Kawerak, Inc.
Key Bank
Kinross Fort Knox
LONG Building
Technologies
Lynden
Marsh & McLennan Agency
Mat-Su Health
Foundation
Mat-Su Homebuilders Association
Matson
MobiBiz Marketing
Moose’s Tooth
MSI Communications
NANA
Nome Chamber of Commerce
Northern Hospitality Group
Northrim Bank
Odom Corporation
Oil Search
Parker, Smith & Feek
PDC Engineers
Peak Trust Company
Perfectionist Auto Sound
Polar Pediatrics
Polar Wire
Premier Electric
Providence Alaska
Quintillion
RDI
Rotary
RSA Engineering
Saltchuk
Seeds of Change
Seward Community Foundation
Skinny Raven Sports
Stellar Designs
Subway of Alaska
Sundog Media
Tastee Freez
The Alaska Club
The Anchorage Chamber of Commerce
The CIRI Foundation
The Foraker Group
Thompson & Co.
Umialik Insurance Company
Verizon
Wells Fargo
Yuit Comms
