May 29, 2015

ATTRACTIONS • EVENTS • SPORTS & LEISURE SHOPPING • HEALTHY LIVING • RESTAURANTS SERVICES • AGRI-TOURISM • JAVA JOINTS PLACES TO STAY • CHILDREN • SENIORS • PET CARE

B2 • Reader’s Choice Awards 2015

Friday, May 29, 2015

PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

2015 ReadeRs’ ChoiCe

Readers rule the day Peninsula News Review faithful have made their picks on their favourites on the Saanich Peninsula

R

eaders of the Peninsula News Review have spoken.

In a robust round of online and paper balloting through April and May, more than 500 people responded to this year’s Peninsula News Review Readers’ Choice Awards. The online response was the largest yet.

People were asked to name their favourite Saanich Peninsula businesses, tourist attractions, activities and people — and the top three in each of our categories were recognized at the News Review’s special gala event at the Muse Winery in North Saanich.

The annual PNR Readers’ Choice Awards is our way of letting business owners know that what they do is valued — not only by us, but by the community.

As ballots were counted and reviewed, certain themes kept coming up — like customer service. It’s easy to see in people’s responses to our contest questions that how they interact with owners, managers and front line staff plays a huge role in the voting. If it wasn’t for this kind of dedication to service, the Peninsula would be a poorer place for it.

Yet, overall, of the contest entries the PNR received, people have an overwhelmingly positive experience on the Saanich Peninsula. And that speaks highly to all of the individuals and shops that earn votes — not just the top three.

4

In plenty of instances, the votes were so close that it was a shame to stick to the top three listing. So, in the end, even if a business isn’t on that list, it most likely still has its loyal customers who took the time to rave about them in the PNR’s contest ballots.

This year is the 10th Readers’ Choice Awards and the field of people, stores and more, represented in the balloting is very strong. Contest entries and public responses are very high and its paints a picture that folks on the Peninsula are doing something right.

It is the amazing people behind the counters of Saanich Peninsula businesses that make the yearly Readers’ Choice Awards such a pleasure to do.

This special section recognizes those individuals and businesses that have impressed many others in the community.

They have gone the extra mile to offer excellent service or provide much-needed support in whatever they have chosen to do.

The PNR thanks everyone for being involved once again this year — from those folks at the register and out in the community, to our readers who were dedicated in their ballot entries this year.

Congratulations and enjoy this special section.

Steven Heywood, editor Peninsula News Review

Steven Heywood/News staff

The 2014 awards are in the bag ... now who will take home a 2015 Readers Choice Award?

PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Friday, May 29, 2015

Reader’s Choice Awards 2015 • B3

Thank You, for Voting Sidney SeniorCare One of Your Top 3 Favourites in the Following Two Categories:

•

Favourite Seniors Health Services Favourite Senior Friendly Establishment

•

be o t d the Prou r o f ted rds a a n i w nom ice A ! o h C ow ers’ r d a a e n R ars i e y 3

We appreciate your loyalty and support, and look forward to continuing to provide the very best home support services for seniors to make you proud!

9752 Third St., Sidney 250-656-7176 or 250-589-0010

#209 – 2250 Oak Bay Ave. (at Monterey) 778-433-4784 or 250-589-0010

B4 • Reader’s Choice Awards 2015

Friday, May 29, 2015

Serving — you, your neighbours, your friends and your family.

The Saanich Peninsula Hospital is a vital part of our community.

Thank you for nominating SPH as one of your Favourite Health Services.

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PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

On behalf of the Town of Sidney, I would like to congratulate all of this year's Readers’ Choice Awards nominees and winners.

Sidney draws people from all over the world who are treated to a remarkable blend of services and attractions. Great shopping, amazing food, beautiful sights, fabulous events, outstanding service and accommodation; it’s what makes our beautiful seaside town stand out amongst other coastal communities.

I would also like to commend the Peninsula News Review for their dedication to organizing these awards. Now in its tenth year, the awards are a remarkable way of recognizing the efforts of the many people, organizations and businesses that make Sidney what it is; unique, vibrant and welcoming.

Mayor Steve Price

We’re celebrating our 30th year.

And we couldn’t have done it without you.

We Are Moving!

What Happens to Them if Something Happens to You?

Thank You for voting for Anam Cara Spa + Beauty Bar!

Fantastic New Location!

Effective June 1st our new address is Anam Cara Spa 2347 Henry Avenue Sidney BC

250-656-6571

Salvador Davis & Co NOTARIES PUBLIC

#101 - 9830 SECOND ST, SIDNEY 250.656.3951 | SALVADOR-DAVIS.COM

PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Friday, May 29, 2015

Reader’sChoice ChoiceAwards Awards2015 201 • B5 Reader’s

Steven Heywood/News staff

Ready to please with a smile. Staff at Sidney’s Pier Hotel, Haro’s Restaurant and Haven Spa work hard and play hard. That’s probaby why this little urban slice of dayto-day life on Beacon Avenue resonates so well with readers of the Peninsula News Review — they’re highly-ranked in eight different categories this year.

Sidney Pier Hotel a hub of urban action Hotel, restaurant and spa all ranks highly in the 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards - and it’s no accident Steven Heywood News staff

A

hub of urban lifestyle — right in downtown Sidney.

That’s how one could describe the beehive of activity that surrounds the Sidney Pier Hotel.

As the 2015 Peninsula News Review Readers Choice awards nominations rolled in, it was clear that plenty of people are seeing good things there. The Pier Hotel, or its Haven Spa or Haro’s Restaurant, feature highly in the top three rankings in seven different categories.

It’s a testament, says General Manager Natalie King, to a vision for the site begun by owner Grant Rogers (of the Marker Group) when the building first went up.

“His vision back then was of creating a community hub,” King says. “But honestly, after it was built we didn’t do much in those first three years other than work really hard to get people to like us.”

Those efforts have obviously paid off. King agrees that the satisfaction shown

by News Review readers in the contest voting — and from customers almost every day — is the realization of that initial goal.

The building, home to the Sidney Pier Hotel, Georgia

Highly regarded The Sidney Pier Hotel and businesses based there, garnered eight nominations in this year’s PNR Readers’ Choice Awards contest, including marks among the top three in: • Favourite Spa • Favourite Place to Grab a Drink • Favourite Hair Salon • Accommodation • Favourite Place to Stay With a Pet • Favourite Place for a First Date • Favourite Place to Catch up with Friends • Favourite Place to Hear Music Cafe, Haro’s Restaurant and Haven Spa — not to mention the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre which is also located there — is a place where people can enjoy a more urban lifestyle, in the heart of Sidney.

“Grant had a vision,” Kings says, “to inspire people and businesses downtown to contribute to an overall vibrancy. And this end of Beacon Avenue has just become so alive.”

As one of the anchor businesses at the east end of Beacon Avenue, the Sidney

Pier Hotel works hard to maintain their relationships with their neighbours and customers alike.

King says there have been various events, initiatives and parties going on at the Pier over the years, all adjusting to the changing tastes of their customers.

“We’ve earned the trust of people now,” she says, “and they know that whatever we do will be high quality and a good value. We’ve proven we do it well.”

Always looking for ways to improve to meet their customers’ needs, King says there’s an emphasis on customer service — enhanced by the fact that there are many of their 85 to 100 employees who have been with them since the beginning.

“We aren’t necessarily saving lives here,” she says.

“Our job is making people happy, helping them make the most of their stay here.

“To work in their business, you do really have to be a people-pleaser.”

To retain staff and maintain their upbeat atmosphere, King says managers ensure there’s a healthy mix of professionalism and fun.

“We take our jobs seriously, but not so much the day-to-day stuff.

“And everybody is willing to do what they can to get the job done.”

— News Review

Thank you for voting for us!

Panorama Recreation is excited to offer the Play in the Park program for the third consecutive summer! This summer, make play a priority for your family and join us every weekday evening from 5:30-8:30pm at various locations in Central Saanich, Sidney and North Saanich. Staff will facilitate FREE fun for the whole family. Help us kick off the summer at our Play in the Park launch party from 5:30-8:30pm on Thursday, July 2nd at Iroquois Park. Enjoy a Jenner’s Grillverado BBQ by donation to benefit the TLC Fund for Kids.

250.656.7271

www.panoramarecreation.ca

B6 • Reader’s Choice Awards 2015

Friday, May 29, 2015

PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre makes a splash Angela Cowan

teer board members, and the odd jobs that get done outside of regular hours — it amounts to about a $125,000 yearly donation from the community, and the Centre couldn’t run without them.

“You would miss so much without the volunteers,” says Beth Watkins, community co-ordinator.

“You could easily miss three-quarters of the animals.”

“Fish can’t speak for themselves, so we need people to tell their stories,” adds Barratt.

Each volunteer comes from a different background, representing a complete cross-section of society. But no matter if it’s a grandmother, a retired teacher, a biologist, or a teenager, each are just as passionate about the Centre and their ‘favourites,’ and visitors get the full benefit.

“You couldn’t buy those experiences and expertise,” says Barratt.

“It’s just invaluable.”

The Centre is always looking for new volunteers, she adds. For more information, visit oceandiscovery.ca.

News staff

T

hough relatively new to the community, the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre has certainly made a splash as a tourist attraction on the Saanich Peninsula since its opening in 2009.

Coming second only to The Butchart Gardens in this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards for Favourite Tourist Attraction, the Centre also scooped first place for Favourite Kid-Friendly Establishment, which for anyone who has gone through their doors and ‘descended’ into the Salish Sea, should come as no surprise.

“Our mission is to bring the public face to face with the Salish Sea,” says executive director Alison Barratt.

There’s a deluge of media, television and internet resources out there with pictures and information on all kinds of ocean life, but the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre brings the Salish Sea and many of its creatures right into the community’s backyard, often to amazed reactions.

“Half of the things we have in here look like children’s drawings,” laughs Barratt.

“The touch (pool) is really important to us,” she adds. “It’s about giving people that first opportunity to get hands-on in nature. And it’s in a safe environ-

Angela Cowan/News staff

Staff and volunteers alike put in many hours at the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre to ensure visitors get the most out of the interactive experiences at the centre, like the always-popular touch pool. From left, staffer Anna Cappiello, executive director Alison Barratt, volunteer Gordon Duke, community co-ordinator Beth Watkins, and volunteers Sarah Board and Celie Phillippe. ment, which parents appreciate.”

Volunteers encourage kids (and those young at heart) to dip their little fingers in the touch pool, discovering how soft a seemingly

spiky sea cucumber actually is, and experiencing the odd sensation of a sea urchin ‘hugging’ your finger.

And it’s those volunteers that

the Centre is especially reliant on as a not-for-profit society.

Clocking about 1,000 hours of recorded volunteer hours each month — not including the volun-

Favourite Tourist Attraction: 1. The Butchart Gardens 2. Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre 3. Sidney Seaside Sculpture Walk

The 148th Annual Saanich Fair Take a Spin at the Fair

Featuring Llamas & Alpacas September 5, 6 & 7 Presented by NORTH & SOUTH SAANICH AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY WESTERN CANADA’S OLDEST CONTINUOUS AGRICULTURAL FAIR

Admission $11 for Adults, $8 for Seniors/Youth FREE for Kids 6 & under Midway - Ride All Day for $40 Gates Open 8am - 9pm No Dogs, Drugs or Alcohol 1528 Stellys Cross Road, Saanichton, BC V8M 1S8 www.saanichfair.ca

Every Thursday night May 14th - Aug 27th 5:30 - 8:30pm SidneyStreetMarket.com

PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Friday, May 29, 2015

Reader’sChoice ChoiceAwards Awards2015 201 • B7 Reader’s

Mark’s is reaching a broad customer base Steven Heywood News staff

O

ne of the constants in life is change and Doug Bateman has seen that first hand throughout his career with Mark’s in Sidney.

Mark’s has been open since November 21, 1988 and in addition to fashion trends, the expanding of its selection of women’s clothing and more, the Fifth Street store most recently changed its exterior signage. That was done, says Bateman, the franchise owner, to get fully in step with the company’s vision and its own brand.

Mark’s has come quite a ways from its Mark’s Work Wearhouse days and in fact had gone through a couple name changes in the last 25 years or so. Today, it’s known simply as Mark’s and Bateman said that reflects their desire to reach a broad customer base.

He says Mark’s has been known for a long time as the store to go to for blue collar workers, yet as trends changed, so did the store.

More women’s fashions were introduced over time, for instance.

“We always did have a selection for women,” Bateman says, “and our department has always been growing.”

The increased selection and store name branding is designed to make customers feel comfortable and confident in their choice

Angela Cowan/News staff

Sidney Mark’s owner Doug Bateman, left, with staff members, Jack Bateman, Shay Baragar, Joyce Green, Sean Bateman and Nick Bergshoeff. Mark’s won first place in the Readers’ Choice Awards for Favourite Men’s and Favourite Women’s Clothing, as well as third place for Favourite Shoes. to shop there, he continues. At the same time as product selection grew, Bateman says he and his staff worked hard to ensure long time and loyal customers — as well as new ones — are welcomed.

“We have a lot of regular customers, really, they are average people, like most of us. They are

looking for high quality clothing and a great value.”

That focus means they reach a large portion of the Saanich Peninsula population.

“People can feel proud of shopping at Mark’s, because we always offer quality and value here.”

That pride in shopping was

certainly reflected in this year’s Peninsula News Review Readers’ Choice nominations. Mark’s finds itself at the top, by popular vote, among Saanich Peninsula men’s wear stores — and women’s wear stores.

Customer service, Bateman says, is key to retaining custom-

ers. So, in addition to maintaining a selection for men and women, his 10 to 14 employees provide knowledgeable service in a wellorganized store that makes for great browsing.

“I really think that with what we do, we have really hit the sweet spot.”

Thank you

... for once again nominating us as your Favourite Garden &Flower Shop!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK - 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Marigold Nurseries

7874 Lochside Dr. SAANICHTON

250-652-2342

B8 • Reader’s Choice Awards 2015

Thank you for your support!

Friday, May 29, 2015

PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Helping People...Improving Lives

SHOAL Centre

10030 Resthaven Dr., Sidney 250-656-5537 Volunteer Services • Youth Employment Program • Assisted Living • Public Dining Room Open for Lunch & Dinner • Rentals & On-Site Catering • Activities & Programs for Improved Health & Well-Being

Thrift Shops

Donations/Furniture Pick-Up 250-656-6828

THANK YOU

“To my valued clients who nominated and voted for me in the top 3 finalists for Favourite Massage Practitioner!

Now more than ever Peninsula residents are choosing Registered Massage Therapy as a safe and effective alternative to prescription medication for pain relief and improved range of motion.”

Sidney: 9775 Third St. • 9781 Third St. • 9760 Fourth St. Brentwood Bay: 7060 W. Saanich Rd. • 7105 W. Saanich Rd. Victoria: 2676 Quadra St. • 715 Pandora Ave.

SUSAN ADAM, RMT North Saanich Massage Therapy (1998) 1864 McTavish Rd, North Saanich 250-656-2858

www.beaconcs.ca

Thanks to all our supporters over the past year!

A Boarding Kennel that loves your pets as much as you do

A Boarding Boarding Kennel Kennel that that loves loves A your pets pets as as much much as as you you do do your

A Full Service Animal Care Facility

Thank You ...for Your Continued Support

Congratulations to All the Other Award Winners!

A Full Full Service Service Animal Animal Care Care Facility Facility A

250-652-2301 • puppylove.ca • email: info@puppylove.ca 2918 Lamont Road, Saanichton Minutes from Victoria Airport & BC Ferries Terminal 250-652-2301 •• puppylove.ca puppylove.ca •• email: email: info@puppylove.ca info@puppylove.ca 250-652-2301 Serving the Peninsula 2918 Lamont Lamont Road, Road, Saanichton Saanichton Minutes Minutes from from Victoria Victoria Airport Airport & & BC BC Ferries Ferries Terminal Terminal 2918 Community for 26 years!

Main Logo: Graphic Element with Wordmark

9764 5th St., Sidney

250-656-1970

PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Friday, May 29, 2015

Reader’s Reader’sChoice ChoiceAwards Awards2015 201 • B9

2015 READERS’ CHOICE AWA R D S

ATTRACTIONS FAvOuRITe ART GAlleRy 1.

2.

3.

Peninsula Gallery Village Gallery Gallery at the Arts Centre, Tulista Park

FAvOuRITe exeRCISe FACIlITy 1.

2.

3.

FAvOuRITe TOuRIST ATTRACTION 1.

2.

3.

The Butchart Gardens Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre Sidney Seaside Sculpture Walk

1.

2.

Sidney Street Market Sidney Days - Peninsula Celebrations Society The Saanich Fair

FAvOuRITe PublIC INdOOR eveNT 1.

2.

3.

Ardmore Golf Course Glen Meadows Golf Course

FAvOuRITe HIkING SPOT

FAvOuRITe PublIC OuTdOOR eveNT

3.

Panorama Recreation Centre Peninsula CrossFit Curves

FAvOuRITe PlACe TO Tee OFF

eveNTS 1.

2.

SPORTS & leISuRe

1.

2.

3.

Horth Hill Regional Park John Dean Provincial Park Gowlland Tod Provincial Park

SHOPPING FAvOuRITe bOOk STORe

A Touch of Saltspring Craft & Art Show Peninsula Panthers Jr. Hockey Sidney Fine Art Show

1.

2.

3.

Tanner’s Books Beacon Books Galleon Books and Antiques

Sidney) / Shoppers Drug Mart (Sidney) / Shoppers Drug Mart (Central Saanich)

FAvOuRITe MeN’S ClOTHING

1.

2.

3.

Mark’s d.g. bremner & co.

Sidney Casuals

FAvOuRITe WOMeN’S ClOTHING 1.

2.

3.

Mark’s Miss Bliss Boutique Suzanne’s & Jenny’s

FAvOuRITe FuRNISHING ANd HOMe déCOR 1.

2.

3.

Capital Iron One Stop Furniture Shop Lilaberry Home Decor

FAvOuRITe THRIFT/ CONSIGNMeNT STORe 1.

2.

3.

Beacon Community Services - Thrift Shops Connections Salvation Army

FAvOuRITe HeAlTH FOOd/ vITAMIN STORe 1.

2.

3.

Lifestyle Markets Sidney Natural Foods Thrifty Foods (Central Saanich &

FAvOuRITe GARdeN SHOP 1.

2.

3.

Marigold Nursery Dig This Russell Nursery

FAvOuRITe FlOWeR SHOP 1.

2.

3.

Brown’s the Florist Thrifty Foods (Central Saanich & Sidney) Marigold Nursery

FAvOuRITe GROCeRy STORe 1.

2.

3.

Thrifty Foods (Central Saanich & Sidney) Fairway Markets Save-On-Foods

FAvOuRITe JeWelleRy STORe 1.

2.

3.

Christine Laurent Jewellers Cameron Rose JayLyn Jewellers

FAvOuRITe FOR SHOeS

1. WATERLiLY Shoes 2. Walk in Comfort Sidney Pier - Reader’s Choice Ad May 2015 • Size: 10.3” (w) x 7.0” (h) • Rev 1 • May 15/15 3. Mark’s

THANK YOU TO THE LOCAL COMMUNITY FOR NOMINATING US FOR THE PENINSULA’S READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

www.sidneypier.com 9805 Seaport Place • 250.655.9445

B10 • Reader’s Choice Awards 2015 B10 • Reader’s Choice Awards 2015

Friday, May 29, 2015 Friday, May 29, 2015

2015

PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

READERS’ CHOICE AWA R D S

Therapeutic Massage Clinic / Britta Frombach, Phi Massage / Samantha Whitney, Healing Hands Massage Therapy

Favourite Drug Store 1.

2.

3.

Shopper’s Drug Mart, Central Saanich & Sidney Pharmasave, Brentwood Bay & Sidney Save-On-Foods

Favourite DeNtiSt

HeaLtHY LiviNg

1.

2.

3.

Favourite PHYSiotHeraPiSt

Favourite SPa

1.

2.

3.

Peninsula Physiotherapy Clinic Active Balance Physiotherapy Studio Saanichton Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic

Favourite CHiroPraCtor 1.

2.

3.

Dr. Mark Galloway Dr. Brian Lim Dr. Harry Repsch

Favourite MaSSage PraCtitioNer 1.

2.

3.

1.

2.

3.

Dr. Don Neal Dr. Philip Louie / Dr. Carl Eeg Dr. Peter Culligan

Haven Spa Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa Anam Cara Day Spa

reStauraNtS Favourite PLaCe to grab a DriNk 1.

Madrona Massage Therapy / Tsehum Harbour Massage Angela Strank / Susan Adam, North Saanich Massage Therapy Clinic / Brentwood Physiotherapy & Massage Parveen Nirmal, You Body Therapy / Mary McCartney, Brentwood Bay

2.

3.

Haro’s Restaurant & Bar / Prairie Inn Neighbourhood Pub Beacon Landing Restaurant & Lounge Boondocks Casual Dining / Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa

Favourite FaMiLY reStauraNt 1.

White Spot

Sassy’s Family Restaurant FrieNDLieSt ServiCe Sabhai Thai / Maria’s Souvlaki Greek 1. Flying Fish Winery Restaurant / Smitty’s Family Restaurant 2. Toast Cafe 3. Thrifty Foods (Sidney & Central Saanich) Favourite SeaFooD 2.

3.

reStauraNt 1.

2.

3.

Fish on Fifth Sea Glass Waterfront Grill Hyland’s Fish and Chips

Favourite etHNiC FooD 1.

2.

3.

Sabhai Thai Good Fortune Restaurant Maria’s Souvlaki Greek Restaurant

Favourite takeout/FooD oN tHe go 1.

2.

3.

Sabhai Thai Maria’s Souvlaki Greek Restaurant Fish on Fifth / The Noodle Box

ServiCeS beSt reaL eState ServiCeS 1.

2.

3.

DFH Real Estate Pacifica Real Estate Inc. Holmes Realty

beSt LegaL ServiCeS 1.

2.

3.

Beacon Law Centre Salvador Davis & Co Scott-Moncrieff & Co.

beSt FiNaNCiaL ServiCeS 1.

2.

3.

Coast Capital Savings TD Canada Trust RBC Royal Bank

beSt LoCaLLY owNeD beer, wiNe aND SPiritS Store 1.

2.

3.

Charles Dickens Pub Prairie Inn Beacon Landing Restaurant & Lounge

Favourite PLaCe to Make beer & wiNe 1.

2.

3.

Flying Fish Winery Peninsula U-Brew Winery Wine Kitz

ONE STOP FURNITURE SHOP INC.

READERS’ CHOICE SALE! Solid Wood

4 DAYS ONLY June 3rd - 6th

Adjustable Beds 9819 Fifth Street, Sidney, BC • 250-655-SHOP (7467) Monday- Saturday 10am-5pm • Sunday Closed www.onestopfurniture.ca

Cabinet Beds

PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Friday, May 29, 2015 Friday, May 29, 2015

Reader’s Choice Awards 201 • B11 Reader’s Choice Awards 2015 • B11

2015 READERS’ CHOICE AWA R D S

3.

Favourite Hair Salon / BarBer 1.

2.

3.

Java JointS

eXist hairworX Salon J Haven Spa Salon

BeSt cuP oF coFFee 1.

2.

3.

Favourite Place For a tune uP 1.

2.

3.

Sidney Tire Steve’s Service Gurton’s Garage

1.

2.

3.

Favourite local Winery

The Saanich Fair Peninsula Country Market 20 05 15 VERT Pen News Review.pdf

1

Sidney Waterfront Inn & Suites

Favourite Place to Stay WitH a Pet 1.

2.

3.

Sidney Pier Hotel & Spa Cedarwood Inn & Suites Best Western Plus Emerald Isle / Victoria Airport/Sidney Travelodge

For cHildren Favourite kid Friendly eStaBliSHMent 1.

2.

3.

Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre Smitty’s Family Restaurant Panorama Recreation Centre

Favourite day care

PlaceS to Stay

For SeniorS

Favourite accoMModation

BeSt Senior Friendly eStaBliSHMent

3.

Michell’s Farm Market SunWing Tomatoes Dan’s Farm & Country Market

3.

Sidney Bakery Alexander’s Coffee Bar / The Roost Farm Centre Thrifty Foods (Sidney & Central Saanich)

1.

2.

Favourite FarM event 1.

2.

Alexander’s Coffee Bar / Fresh Cup Roastery Cafe Starbucks Serious Coffee

BeSt Baked GoodS

Muse Winery Church & State Wines Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse

BeSt FarM Produce 1.

2.

3.

Alexander’s Coffee Bar Toast Café Starbucks

BeSt BeanS

aGritouriSM 1.

2.

3.

Oldfield Orchard & Bakery Octoberfest

1.

2.

Sidney Pier Hotel & Spa 11:27 AM Cedarwood Inn & Suites

20/05/15

1.

2.

3.

1.

Discovery House Early Childhood Centre Gingerbread Pre-School and Daycare The Playhouse Out of School Care

SHOAL Centre

2.

3.

Sidney SeniorCare Amica at Beechwood Village

BeSt Senior livinG Facility 1.

2.

3.

SHOAL Centre Amica at Beechwood Village The Peninsula at Norgarden

BeSt SeniorS’ HealtH ServiceS 1.

2.

3.

Sidney SeniorCare Beacon Community Services SHOAL Centre Saanich Peninsula Hospital

Pet care Favourite BoardinG/ GrooMinG 1.

2.

3.

Puppy Love Pet Care Centre Grooming by Jan Pooch Parlour / K9 Country Cottage

BeSt Pet SuPPlieS 1.

2.

3.

Sidney’s Pet Centre & Aquatics Bosley’s By Pet Valu All Pets Food & Supplies

Thank you for your continued support C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Visit Church & State Wines this summer and experience the winery that’s been named producer of Canada’s Best Red Wine...

Five times 1445 Benvenuto Ave, Victoria, BC ~ 250-652-2671 www.churchandstatewines.com

Christine Laurent F i n e J ewe lle ry & G i F ts

2432 Beacon Avenue • Sidney, B.C. • 250-656-7141 christinelaurentjewellers.ca

B12 • Reader’s Choice Awards 2015

Friday, May 29, 2015

2015

PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

READERS’ CHOICE AWA R D S

Favourite veterinary CliniC 1.

2.

3.

Sidney Animal Hospital Anicare Veterinary Hospital Beacon Cat Hospital

Favourite PeoPle Friendliest PeaCe oFFiCer 1.

2.

3.

Cst. Ravi Gunasinghe (RCMP) Steven McKellar (CRD) Cst. George Phipps (RCMP) / Cpl. Erin Fraser (RCMP) / Cst. Paul Brailey (Central Saanich Police Department)

toP Customer serviCe reP & Where they Work 1.

2.

3.

Sarah Haldane - Flying Fish Winery Angela Kendall - Glen Meadows Golf Course Jackie Ekdahl - Salon J

We Want to knoW Best PlaCe For a First date 1.

2.

3.

Haro’s Restaurant & Bar Sidney Waterfront Inn & Suites Beacon Landing Restaurant & Lounge

Favourite PlaCe to CatCh uP With Friends 1.

2.

3.

Prairie Inn Haro’s Restaurant & Bar Starbucks / Beacon Landing Restaurant & Lounge

Favourite PlaCe to hear musiC 1.

2.

3.

Beacon Park Bandshell Mary Winspear Centre Haro’s Restaurant & Bar

Favourite veterinarian 1.

2.

3.

Steven Heywood/News staff

Congratulations to all of the 2015 Readers’ Choice winners. This year’s gala event to recognize all those involved in the PNR’s 10th Readers’ Choice Awards was once again held at the Muse Winery. Watch the paper for photos.

Dr. Nigel Bass Dr. Jonathan Smith Dr. Lorie Clarke

Free Shuttle Friday & Saturday From 9 p.m.

Thank you for a wonderful year!

We truly appreciate your continued support & owe our success to you, our great customers!

2389 beacon ave. sidney, bc 778.426.0479 www.missblissboutique.ca

Great Food, Friendly Staff & the Best Selection of Craft & Import Brews Now Family Friendly Until 10 p.m. Daily

250.656.5042 • 2250 Beacon Avenue, Sidney

PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Friday, May 29, 2015

Reader’s Reader’sChoice ChoiceAwards Awards2015 201 • B13

Sidney Bakery in the family for more than 70 years Many treats use original recipes from 1944 Angela Cowan News staff

S

uffused with the intoxicating smells of browning sugar and rising yeast, the Sidney Bakery has been a cornerstone in the town for more than 100 years, supplying still-warm breads, melt-inyour-mouth muffins and donuts that seem to be little pieces of heaven come to earth.

And with the passion that goes into making all of these goodies, it’s not surprising that Sidney Bakery took the top spot for Favourite Baked Goods in this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards.

“We are pretty famous for our donuts and our sausage rolls,” says co-owner and manager Colleen Hay with a smile.

Colleen and her husband Mike bought the bakery from Mike’s brother eight years ago, keeping alive a family business that’s been flourishing since 1942, and has come to be a cornerstone of the community.

“We still get people that ask about (Mike’s) grandma and grandpa,” says Colleen.

“People who grew up here and moved away, when they come back to visit, this is one of their first stops. It’s very flattering.”

Their customers span generations, with older folks introducing their children and grandchildren to the trays of goodies at the bakery.

“We have people we see everyday, and then people we see every week

when they come to do their orders,” she says.

And their tastes are just as widely varied, with older customers buying the traditional standbys like date turnovers and the Eccles cakes, and the younger kids snapping up everything new.

First established in 1910, the bakery has carried an old-world commitment to quality through the intervening years that has continued with the Hays.

Everything is made right from scratch, using many of the same recipes from as early as 1944. The tried and true methods certainly work — they run out of stock nearly every day, no matter how much more they produce, and customers aren’t shy about demanding more when it comes to their favourites.

And in a time when big business seems to be crowding out the little guys, the Sidney Bakery had their busiest year ever in 2014.

It’s very much a family affair, with the husband and wife team leading the way.

“I like being able to work with my husband,” says Colleen. “We see each other all the time. And all our staff end up being a big family as well. It makes us closer.”

Angela Cowan/News staff

Sidney Bakery owners Mike and Colleen Hay took over the business from Mike’s brother eight years ago. The bakery has been in the Hay family since 1942 and is a cornerstone of the community.

Thank you Sidney!

Thank you for choosing us as one of the finalists in the category of Favourite Women’s Clothing Store!

2015

WE APPRECIATE YOU!

READERS’ CHOICE AWA R D S

Find us beside CIBC & across from Shoppers Drug Mart

Beacon Plaza 250-656-0096 Sign up at www.suzannes.biz to receive our latest arrivals, advance notification of upcoming promotions, contests, special offers, random gift card giveaways and more! www.suzannes.biz • follow us on Facebook

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B14 • Reader’s Choice Awards 2015

Friday, May 29, 2015

PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Thank You

Thank you!

TD Canada Trust Sidney branch would like to thank our Saanich Peninsula customers for voting us Best in Financial Services for 2015.1

PENINSULA PHYSIOTHERAPY & MASSAGE 9733 - 4th Street • Sidney 250.656.4717 • peninsulaphysio.ca

BRENTWOOD PHYSIOTHERAPY & MASSAGE Best in Financial Services Winner, Saanich Peninsula Review Readers’ Choice Award. ® The TD logo and other trade-marks are the property of The Toronto-Dominion Bank.

M01698 (1014)

1

Bob and his staff would like to say thank you for voting us as a finalist for Favourite Drug Store!

We look forward to serving you !

6967 Wallace Drive Brentwood Bay 250.652.6515 • brentwoodphysio.ca

From all of us at Sabhai Thai we would say a huge Thank You to our Patrons who voted for us again as one of your Top Fave Restaurants on the Peninsula!

OPEN SEVEN DAYS/ WEEK LUNCH: 11:30am – 2:00pm (except Sundays) DINNER: 4:30pm – 9:00pm

L I V E

W E L L

W I T H

2 LOCATIONS! Sidney & Langford 2493 Beacon Avenue, Sidney, 250 655-4085 2800 Jacklin Road Langford, 250 590-5039

PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Reader’s Reader’sChoice ChoiceAwards Awards2015 201 • B15

Friday, May 29, 2015

It’s staff who make the Prairie Inn popular Steven Heywood News staff

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f he had to pin down one reason why people seem to like the Prairie Inn in Saanichton, Jamie Day would have to say it’s their servers and staff.

Day is the general manager of the Prairie Inn (or PI, for short) and has been working at the tavern for around 16 years. He has also worked for its owner, Brian Donnelly, for close to 23 years.

Day said the attitude towards the employees at the PI — which earned a tie for first place in the Peninsula News Review’s Readers’ Choice category Favourite Place to Grab a Drink and top spot among places to catch up with friends and second in best beer, wine and spirit stores — starts with the owner and trickles down.

It has been positive enough that Day said five of their staff have been with the PI for years.

“One has been here for 20 years, another for 15 or 16 and most are in the four to five-year range,” Day said.

Asked how they are able to retain that many people, Day responded, “teamwork.”

“My title makes me their boss, sure,” he explained. “But I don’t necessarily act like that. You have to treat people with respect.”

Day said it’s his policy to let PI employees have the flexibility and freedom to make their mistakes

Steven Heywood/News staff

Jamie Day, manager of the Prairie Inn in Saanichton, says it’s the friendly atmosphere that keeps people coming back to one of the iconic establishments on the Saanich Peninsula. (if they do make mistakes, that is) and learn from them. He added when staff do well, the owner responds and lets them know they’ve done a good job, typically through a bonus program.

That longevity means experience and familiar faces, Day continued.

“There’s a consistency of friendly service here.”

The Prairie Inn has seen its share of change over the years, even as staff have remained steady. Day said that most recently, the PI began allowing minors into the family sections of their restaurant.

It has opened up the PI, he said, to families and expanded their business to reach more of the community.

“It has been a change for the

good,” he said.

“We’re way busier, on average, per table each day. Our customers have gotten used to the change, but it’s something that’s happening everywhere.”

The PI opened in 1974 and this year marks its 20th anniversary.

Day said they have a celebration planned for July to mark the occasion — and are looking at intro-

ducing (for a short time) throwback prices on items like dinosaur ribs and other menu items.

This, and their famous free popcorn all add up for their customers.

“It’s the little things that we do that go a long way and help to establish those great relationships we have with our customers.”

— News Review

2537 Beacon Avenue (in the Cannery Building) Sidney 250.656.5606 info@waterlilyshoes.com

B16 • Reader’s Choice Awards 2015

Friday, May 29, 2015

Six generations of Michell’s have been part of the Peninsula community. We would like to thank everyone for their support over the years!

- Michell Bros. Farm

Thank you once again for Voting us your Favourite place for Fresh Farm Produce!!

PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

s’ a ReadeR Peninsul s d R a ChoiCe aw est oR “B WinneR f imPRove o t Place s e” 9 YeaR YouR smil G in n Run

Serving Victoria and Sidney for over 25 years

FARMING

on the Peninsula since 1862

Thank you for your support!

Thank you for keeping us in the Top 3 readers choice finalists consistently as your Favourite Dental practice!

Now with the addition of Dr. Trevor Neal to the clinic, we are open extended hours!

OPEN DAILY Corner of Island View Rd. & Hwy. 17

250-652-6770

Come see us for all of your fresh, locally grown produce!

To schedule a personalized new patient appointment please call 250.656.4848 or visit our website.

Open Monday – Thursday 8 – 5 and now Fridays 7 – 4

#213-2506 Beacon avenue, sidney 250.656.4848 | www.landmarkdental.ca

Sidney by the Sea

Celebrating 20 years in business!

We truly appreciate your continued support the last 20 years. We owe our success to you, our great customers !

Thank you!

Traditional Greek Cuisine Dine in or carry out • Licensed Patio Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner

Thank you for choosing us as one of your favourite places!

Sidney Waterfront Inn & Suites, family owned and operated since 1963.

Escape, Relax, Rejuvenate 9775 First St. Sidney, BC 250-656-1131 • Toll Free:1- 888-656-1131 sidneywaterfrontinn.com • stay@sidneywaterfrontinn.com

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PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Friday, May 29, 2015

Reader’s Reader’sChoice ChoiceAwards Awards2015 201 • B17

Winemakers extraordinaire at Flying Fish

W

here else can people find their very own personal wine maker, ask Derek and Mélanie Winnicki, owners of the Flying Fish Winery in Central Saanich.

That’s what their customers can expect at Flying Fish, they said during an interview with the Peninsula News Review recently.

Flying Fish Winery made a splash in the 2015 PNR Readers’ Choice Awards contest. Not only did they place first among beer and wine-making shops, but they also scored top marks among Saanich Peninsula businesses noted for the friendliest service.

Oh, and one of their employees — Sarah White-Haldane — pretty much ran away with the votes in the category of Top Customer Service.

The Winnickis say that reflects how they feel about their staff — both Sarah and Laura Elder — calling them “wine makers extraordinaire.”

The couple purchased Flying Fish Winery two years ago from the previous owner, who had it for about a decade. Simply put, they say, Flying fish is a place where people can make their own wine — with the help of their energetic staff, of course.

“We are very excited [about the awards],” the Winnickis said. “Our big thing here is that it’s just a big family.

Angela Cowan/News staff

Flying Fish Winery owners Derek Winnicki, left, and Mélanie Winnicki, join their ‘winemakers extraordinaire’ and staff Sarah WhiteHaldane and Laura Elder in celebrating their Readers’ Choice Awards wins.

“The first time a customer is here, they are just adopted into it.”

As the summertime approaches, Flying Fish is gearing up for the busy season. The Winnickis say the hot months can see as many

as 800 batches or more going at the same time — and that’s 23 litres per batch.

“That’s a lot of wine!”

Apple wine is the most popular on offer at Flying Fish, they say,

adding their speciality is fresh fruit processing.

“Anything you can make a pie out of, you can make a wine with.”

There’s no cleaning additives or sulfates at Flying Fish and wines

are cooled to soften the acids and calm sediments.

Overall, however, it’s the experience and the friendly staff that wins the day for Flying Fish Winery. — with files from Angela Cowan

Thank you for nominating us again as your Favourite Place for Seafood and Favourite Take-Out food to go!

17 years with the same local ownership!

Jennifer S, Chelsey M, Natasha I, Megan W, Jaclyn R, Shay M, Anjelica A, Janet K, Mackenzie C, Joey O, Madison P, Lydia T, Bethany M and Nathalie J who won’t be with us until July while she is doing her nursing practicum. I would also like to thank Logan G, doing his co op in Vancouver this summer and Meredith J working in the Lab at UVic and it should be noted she graduated with a perfect 4.0.

9812 Fifth Street (1/2 block from Beacon) 250.656.4022

B18 • Reader’s Choice Awards 2015

Friday, May 29, 2015

PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

TO OUR VALUED CLIENTS Thank you for choosing us as one of your favourite real estate companies!

Our practice is based on a belief in client communiction, education, and working with our clients to make the best choices for both owner and pet.

Buying or Selling?

We specialise in Residential, Commercial, Waterfront and Acerages & Farms on the Saanich Peninsula, Victoria and Westshore.

Thank you for nominating us as your favourite veterinary clinic.

We appreciate your continued support.

Sincerely, Dr. Nigel Bass, Dr. Kacey Stavill, Dr. Kim Beare and Staff

101-9842 Second St., Sidney 250-656-3333 www.sidneyanimalhospital.com

250.656.0911 or Toll Free 1.877.656.0911 Holmes Realty Ltd. 2481 Beacon Ave. Sidney BC V8L1X9

www.HolmesRealty.com

Thank you for your support!

FINALI

ST

We would like to thank our Customers for all of their support in nominating us as your one of your Favourite Ethnic Food Restaurants!

Serving the Peninsula since 1988!

Dr. Mark Galloway 1-9843 Second Street Sidney BC. 250-655-3233

“It’s more than Good Fortune to be rated the best!”

9838 Third Street, Sidney • 250-656-5112 goodfortunerestaurantsidney.ca

PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Friday, May 29, 2015

Reader’sChoice ChoiceAwards Awards2015 201 • B19 Reader’s

Creating

BEAUTIFUL NATURAL RESULTS

Choice smiles The PNR Readers’ Choice Awards are always a good time.

Here, some of the 2014 winners share a smile and a laugh at the Muse Winery.

Top: Maria and Dillon (the Timebenders) join Ron and Maureen Vincent of Seaglass Waterfront Grill.

Left: Karen Kirwin of Hot Mama Health and Fitness joins Meghan LeBlanc of Peninsula Crossfit.

W

e would Like to thank the Peninsula News Review readers who voted for us and our wonderful patients who have supported us through the years.

We look forward to continuing to serve our existing patients as well as new patients, that are always welcome.

Carl, Jeannine, Therese, Debbie, Irene, Erin & Jasmin.

DR. CARL EEG

202-2377 Bevan Ave., Sidney, BC V8L 4M9 250-656-6464 • Fax: 250-656-0808 www.sidneydentist.ca

THANK YOU TO THE COMMUNITY FOR THE NOMINATION FOR BEST SENIOR FRIENDLY ESTABLISHMENT AND BEST SENIOR LIVING FACILITY

Sidney’s Best Kept Seniors’ Secret

“With sincerest thanks, we appreciate every single vote you took the time to make.

Our success is because of our dedicated clients who show off our talents!”

Cheers to the start of year number #16!

Hours: Tuesday 9 am to 8 pm Wednesday – Friday 9 am to 6 pm Saturday 9 am to 5 pm

3-2310 Beacon Ave.,

Sidney 250-656-2321

SHOAL Private Residences

Experience the Best in Independent Living! * Pets Welcome * Support services (personal care) available on an as needed basis, * 5 appliances, including in-suite laundry, unfurnished suites * 24-hour response available * Compounding pharmacy Pre-arranged tours by Appointment only.

No drop-ins please.

250-654-0536

Lorraine Gates, General Manager, SHOAL Centre Independent Living Residences office located next to the pharmacy

(note: The SHOAL Centre is not a nursing home. It is the only seniors centre in town with an on-site public activity centre and a public dining room).

B20 • Reader’s Choice Awards 2015

Friday, May 29, 2015

garden patch

PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Thank you!

to all of our customers for your patronage.

It is a privilege to serve you!

Get the most out of your garden with inspiration from Thrifty Foods.

Sidney

Central Saanich

9810 Seventh Street, Sidney

7860 Wallace Drive, Saanichton

250 656 0946

250 544 0980

thriftyfoods.com