The Best Of... - Best of Whidbey 2015

B est of W hidbey T he

2015 Whidbey News Group Readers Choice

Best Deli Sandwich

Pickles Deli named island favorite

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Supplement to the Whidbey News-Times, The Whidbey Examiner and South Whidbey Record

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THE BEST OF WHIDBEY

Wednesday, July 29, 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

ISLAND HANDYMAN, INC. WH I

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THE BEST OF WHIDBEY

Making Whidbey’s ‘best sandwich’

By BEN WATANABE

The prep line is a flurry of slicing, dicing, chopping, spreading, searing, grilling and baking at Pickles Deli on a recent Thursday lunch rush.

Prior to the noon crush, owner Kim Bailey said it was a relatively slow day.

She spoke too soon.

When the photographer pops by to take some photos, a seven-person line has formed, and all five employees in that day (two called in sick, prompting Bailey to come in on her scheduled day off) are busy.

They are making sandwiches and smoothies, taking orders, ringing up customers, answering the phone, and preparing more lettuce and tomatoes — all the elements necessary for the sandwich formula Bailey has perfected and repeated since opening the doors in 2006 in Clinton.

“I always said I was going to open a restaurant before I turned 35,” Bailey said by phone after the lunch rush.

“I did that when I turned 34.”

“I didn’t honestly know if it was going to work,” she added. “Everyone said,

Photos by Ben Watanabe

Right: Kim Bailey, owner of Pickles Deli, makes a sandwich at her Clinton shop. Above: Pickles Deli is popular among South Whidbey locals, which is why it was voted best Deli Sandwich in the Best of Whidbey contest. you’re going to fail because you’re opening a restaurant on Whidbey Island in the winter.”

Practically since opening her doors, Bailey’s deli has been a hit and earned Pickles the honor of earning Best Deli Sandwich in this year’s Best of Whidbey.

She may not quite know the pull, but regulars who frequent the restaurant at Ken’s Korner do. Four men grabbed lunch together at one of their favorite haunts.

Savoring each bite, Chris Gilbert of Clinton said he favors Pickles as his lunchtime pick.

“There are only a few places to get a lunch this good,” Gilbert said between bites.

When she first opened, Bailey was not so certain of the business’ success.

She left a successful career as a caterer in Everett.

She was living on Whidbey at the time, and

found herself wondering what her options were for dinner when she got back to the island.

There weren’t many that enticed her.

“I wanted a big, giant salad that was full of colors,” said Bailey, who turns 43 in mid-July. “There was nowhere to go for that.”

In recent years, her sandwich shop has expanded to offer ice cream, pasta SEE PICKLES, A5

Thank you all for your support!

331-6300 675-7200 321-6400 Freeland Oak Harbor Bayview

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My Community is everything to me.

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Thank you for selecting me as “Best of Whidbey,” for Real Estate Agent & runner up for Community Volunteer, in 2015!

I am truly humbled to receive this honor.

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Tina Wieldraayer-Provoncha Broker | REALTOR® 360-672-0058 TinaMarie@windermere.com TinaMarie.withwre.com

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for being selected as Best Police Officer!

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Wednesday, July 29, 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

THE BEST OF WHIDBEY

Here ‘s your ‘Best’ of 2015 ART GALLERY

First: PENN COVE GALLERY Runner up: GARRY OAK GALLERY Honorable Mentions: WHIDBEY GLASS GALLERY WINDJAMMER ART GALLERY

ASSISTED LIVING

Whidbey Coffee is the 2015 Best of Whidbey Business of the Year. Hilary Carpenter was chose Best Barista.

First: REGENCY ON WHIDBEY Runner up: HARBOR TOWER Honorable Mentions: SUMMER HILL CAREAGE

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

First: WHIDBEY COFFEE Runner up: PACIFIC GRACE TAX & ACCOUNTING Honorable Mentions: WHIDBEY SEA-TAC SHUTTLE EL CAZADOR

EVENT/FESTIVAL First: OAK HARBOR MUSIC FESTIVAL Runner up: COUPEVILLE A&C FEST Honorable Mentions: HOLLAND HAPPENING MUSSELFEST

The best food, fun, people and places found on Whidbey Island, as voted upon by the readers of the Whidbey News-Times, The Whidbey Examiner and South Whidbey Record

GOLF COURSE

PERFORMING ARTS

First: WHIDBEY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Runner up: GALLERY GOLF COURSE Honorable Mentions: USELESS BAY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB LAM’S LINKS

NONPROFIT First: GARAGE OF BLESSINGS Runner up: WAIF Honorable Mentions: HABITAT FOR HUMANITY BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS

First: WHIDBEY PLAYHOUSE Runner up: WICA Honorable Mentions: OHHS DRAMA CLUB COUPEVILLE HS DRAMA CLUB

AUDIOLOGY CLINIC First: HEARING HEALTH SERVICES Runner up: OAK HARBOR HEARING AID SERVICE Honorable Mentions: CONNECT HEARING ISLAND FAMILY HEARING CLINIC

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Thank You to All of Our Supporters!

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Wednesday, July 29, 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

THE BEST OF WHIDBEY

PICKLES

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CONTINUED FROM A3 salad, lattes, pho, bone broth and other options. In that same time, she’s collected several awards from the King 5 Best of Western Washington competition, as well as the Best of Whidbey.

Somehow, and Bailey swears she had no idea how this happened, Pickles Deli ended up on the High Times magazine list of “10 Stonerific Sandwich Shops for Satisfying Mondo Munchies.”

“I have no idea how that happened or who came in or what,” she laughed.

Just the other day, she said, some people came in and told her they came across the ferry just to have one of her sandwiches.

“It’s very weird, but people hear about it,” Bailey said. “I don’t know how or why.”

Success has come from consistency, quality and customer service, Bailey said. She stresses to her employees that each sandwich should be made the same, every time, and be properly wrapped.

Perhaps it’s a remnant of her less-than-pleasant time in an all-girls Catholic

preparatory school in Massachusetts, but if she sees one of her employees sloppily wrap a sandwich, she makes them do it over.

A representation of the two most difficult times of her life hangs over her head when she’s in the shop.

Swaying and twisting above the counters is a large paper mache girl riding a pickle and holding up a plate with a sandwich.

The girl is wearing a tartan skirt and suspenders, a la Catholic schoolgirl uniform.

“It symbolizes the two hardest things I’ve done,” she said of spending 12

years in a Catholic school, from which she said she stills bear the physical scars of on her knuckles, and opening the restaurant in a risky market.

On adding one more people’s choice award to her wall, Bailey said she’s always elated to be celebrated by her friends and customers.

“I think it’s fantastic. I love it,” she said of the Best of Whidbey award. “Being a restaurant owner, there’s not that many rewards. It’s a lot of work. I never opened it to make money. Yes it makes money, but that was never my objective.”

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Wednesday, July 29, 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

THE BEST OF WHIDBEY

2015 WHIDBEY NEWS GROUP READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

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Ronnie Wright was named the Best Accountant/CPA and Business Person of the Year in this year’s Best of Whidbey contest.

Thank You for all the Years of Support

360.675.1741 • 770 SE Pioneer Way • Oak Harbor

OH CPA earns Business Person of the Year award

By DEBRA VAUGHN

When Ronnie Wright was little, he didn’t want to be a firefighter, a cop or a race car driver — he wanted to be an accountant.

He was the type of kid who made his bed and then lined up his shoes underneath.

Something about putting things in order appealed to

him and still does.

Today he and Kathy Jolly are partners in an Oak Harbor accounting firm, Pacific Grace Tax & Accounting. His professional skill set and ability to connect with people are probably the reasons why he was voted Best Accountant/ CPA and Business Person of the Year in the Whidbey

Thank you for Voting!

Karen Jaeger

Tara Vacation Rentals (360) 331-0129 karen@whidbeyislandrentals.com www.whidbeyvacation.com

Brad Jaeger

Tara Property Management South (360) 331-7100 brad@tpmsouth.com www.tarapropertymanagementsouth.net

News-Times annual Best of Whidbey, a recognition of the best the island has to offer.

“The award is a recognition of all us,” he said. “I couldn’t do what I do without a team of people.”

Wright, 42, didn’t take a straight journey to his calling. His father died just after he graduated from high school in Woodland, Calif.

The death left him adrift – until a Navy recruiter came calling. He enlisted and he describes his service in the Navy as life-changing.

The military gave his life structure and purpose and broadened his horizons. He was stationed first in Guam and later in Everett.

“It allowed me to see the advantages we have in our country that in other countries people don’t have,” he said.

SEE RONNIE WRIGHT, A7

THANK YOU for your votes for “Best Attorney”

Experienced, Ethical, Professional

at Bayview Center

Thanks Everyone!

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(360) 321-0577

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Molly McPherson

READERS CHOICE AWARDS

Attorney at Law

360-678-4407

1 NW Front St • Coupeville

Wednesday, July 29, 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

THE BEST OF WHIDBEY

RONNIE WRIGHT CONTINUED FROM A1 When he arrived in the Northwest, he decided to live near friends in Oak Harbor and commute. He’s never left.

That’s where he met his wife, Peggy. He left the Navy with an honorable discharge and started attending classes at Skagit Valley College.

He graduated from Western Washington University and later went onto to earn a master’s in business administration from Salem University.

After a year at Upchurch Scientific, he was recruited by the Internal Revenue Service and took a job in Everett auditing small businesses.

He quickly was promoted to management. When he needed to move to Denver

to advance, he decided instead to join his friend, Kathy Jolly, at her business in Oak Harbor. By then he was married and raising two daughters.

His partner describes a man who is devoted to family and the community.

“He knows his stuff, but he also cares about people,” Jolly said. “He cares about his clients.”

Wright is a person of integrity who isn’t afraid to give it to his clients straight.

“Sometimes with income tax it’s a straight line: this is the tax, you have to pay it,” she said. “He’s fair and ethical and he’s been a shot of adrenaline into this business.”

Today Pacific Grace is growing rapidly.

In the last two years, they’ve grown by

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300 percent. They’re pursuing business in Skagit County and all over the world. Much of his business comes through referrals, and he had clients as far flung as Russia.

“It’s been nonstop doing what I can do to bring in additional business and growing leaps and bounds,” he said.

Wright is actively involved in the community, donating his time and money to good works, said Christine Cribb, executive director of the Greater Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce.

“He’s so incredibly genuine,” she said.

“He owns this community like he’s been here his entire life.”

Wright is an enrolled agent -- he can do everything a certified public accountant can do except audits. The firm’s primary focus is on acquiring new tax clients, for which they provide tax planning and consulting

services. He also works with businesses of all sizes offering payroll, bookkeeping and business planning.

His background with the IRS is a selling point with clients who can feel assured he knows the law and what might catch an auditor’s attention.

“We’re going to show you the line of the law and what we can do within the letter of the law to maximize savings,” he said. “But we aren’t going to push that envelope.”

Building personal relationships with people is one key to his success. It’s important that his clients feel welcome and at ease, and he wants the office to feel like a second home to his clients.

“Taxes can be stressful for people,” he said. “Our job is to take that stress away from them. They know when they leave here, they are taken care of.”

Thank you to all my patients for voting me

“The Best of Whidbey” Best Chiropractor & Best Chiropractic Clinic WH I

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Dr. Dawn Keith-Madeiros • Bayshore Chiropractic

360-675-1066 • 840 SE Bayshore Dr, Oak Harbor

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Wednesday, July 29, 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

THE BEST OF WHIDBEY

Music festival voted best event Newer event nudges ahead of some long-standing favs said event organizer Larry Mason.

“We spend a heck of a lot of time volunteering for this music event. We put our passion into it.”

The Oak Harbor Music Festival will mark its fourth year Sept. 4-6 in historic downtown with a lineup that features more than 30 bands and performers.

Lukas Nelson and Promise of the Real is the top draw among a diverse music lineup that will play on stages on opposite ends

By RON NEWBERRY

Compared with other festivals and events on Whidbey Island with richer, deeper histories, the Oak Harbor Music Festival could still be considered somewhat of a new kid on the block.

But that didn’t stop voters of Best of Whidbey from choosing the relative newcomer as the island’s best event/festival.

“It’s really cool that people have voted for an event that is only three years old,” WH I

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of Pioneer Way. What started as the Oak Harbor Music and Jazz Festival in 2012, the event dropped jazz from its name

a year later, acquired nonprofit status and has grown rapidly in popularity.

Last year, the festival SEE MUSIC FESTIVAL, A10

Whidbey Playhouse

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THANK YOU WHIDBEY ISLAND! Don’t just live...Thrive!

2014 file photos

Larry Mason, left, is both a performer and organizer for the Oak Harbor Music Festival, which has grown in popularity.

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Thank You Island Community

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Thank you for voting us BEST PERFORMING ARTS

we have everything you need

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Thank you for voting for us in the Best of Whidbey!

“Best Assisted Living” Cottages • Assisted Living • Memory Care

www.regencywhidbey.com

Wednesday, July 29, 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

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2015 WHIDBEY NEWS GROUP READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

WINNERS CONTINUED FROM A4

First: BAYSHORE CHIROPRACTIC & NATURAL CARE CENTER Runner up: ISLAND CHIROPRACTIC Honorable Mentions: WHIDBEY ISLAND CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC NORTH ISLAND CHIROPRACTIC & WELLNESS CENTER

DENTAL OFFICE

DERMATOLOGY CLINIC First: FAMILY DERMATOLOGY Runner Up: WHIDBEY DERMATOLOGY

EYE CARE CLINIC First: WHIDBEY VISION Runner up: WHIDBEY EYE CENTER Honorable Mentions: VISION PLUS ISLAND EYE CENTER

HEALTH CLUB/ FITNESS First: THRIVE FITNESS Runner up: NORTH END FITNESS CENTER Honorable Mentions: NAS WHIDBEY GYM & FITNESS CENTER ISLAND ATHLETIC CENTER

PHYSICAL THERAPY First: HARBOR PHYSICAL THERAPY & WELLNESS

SALON

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First: SALON LUX Runner up: ALLURE SALON Honorable Mentions: CARLA’S SHEAR INSPIRATION SEASIDE SALON & SPA

TANNING SALON First: DESERT SUN Runner up: WHIDBEY TROPICS Honorable Mentions: STUDIO A GENESIS HAIR & TANNING

TATTOO SHOP

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Gene Kelly Barner We listen.

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360-675-8239 144 N E Ernst St Suite C www.edwardjones.com Oak Harbor, WA 98277 EW Thank you for your votes: Gene Kelly Barner EY N S GR 360-675-8239 DB Financial Advisor Best Financial Advisor . www.edwardjones.com BEST P OU

First: WHIDBEY AVENUE DENTAL CLINIC Runner up: PLAYHOUSE DENTAL Honorable Mentions: ACORN DENTAL CLINIC PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

First: ISLAND DRUG Runner up: RITEAID Honorable Mentions: WALGREEN LIND’S PHARMACY/COUPEVILLE

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CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

DRUG STORE/ PHARMACY

Runner up: RUE & PRIMAVERA Honorable Mentions: FAMILY CARE PHYSICAL THERAPY HARADA PHYSICAL THERAPY

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Best Business Person of the Year Honorable Mention

First: RONNIE WRIGHT Runner up: KATHY JONES Honorable Mentions: JOHN E. KINGMA DALE OFFRET

Member SIPC

CONTINUED ON A16 Member SIPC

Member SIPC

THANK YOU WHIDBEY ISLAND FOR VOTING US TOP 4 IN 6 BEST OF WHIDBEY CATEGORIES Best Family Restaurant • Best Bar/Tavern • Best Happy Hour Best Burger • Best Barbecue • Best Waitperson - Jaime Zook WH I

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32295 State Route 20, Oak Harbor • 360-675-5858 • www.eatatflyers.com

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Wednesday, July 29, 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

CONTINUED FROM A8 areas of responsibility.

The board is made up of Larry and Cynthia Mason, Kathy Collantes, Karla Freund, Terri Mebane, Lynn Goebel, Sadi Foltz and Livermore.

Mason, a musician himself, is in charge of lining up the bands.

“Any event really needs to have that sort of structure,” Livermore said.

The group works with a budget of about $100,000 and acquires funds through sponsorships, fundraisers, grants, individual donations and booth fees, and beer garden sales at the event.

The festival annually

gives out music scholarships to high school graduates from the island in honor of former music educators.

“The first year we were scrambling,” Larry Mason said. “We’ve learned a lot.”

After catching its breath in September, the board will reconvene once a month starting in October.

“We take a month off,” Livermore said. “We take September off, debrief and start all over again.”

To learn more about the Oak Harbor Music Festival or to inquire about volunteering, go to www.oakharborfestival.com

Enjoy Island life at the Club

2014 file photo

The Labor Day Weekend festival offers live entertainment in a laid-back atmosphere for visitors to relax, or in some cases, get to two-steppin’.

Carol Gannaway’s Canine Potentials

Featuring swimming pool, gym & tennis courts One of the Northwest’s finest golf courses Casual and fine dining Banquet and meeting rooms open to the public starting at just $50 • Outstanding golf & social memberships available

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Useless Bay Golf & Country Club Langley, Whidbey Island • 360.321.5960 www.uselessbaygolf.com

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We are humbled and honored for this recognition. We will continue to build your dreams within our Whidbey Island community. This would not be possible without the expertise and loyalty of the Waldron Construction staff.

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drew 15,000 people over three days, doubling attendance from the previous year.

“It’s a wonderful, free festival,” said Margaret Livermore, the event president. “It brings a lot of people here. It helps finish off the summer. I’m just so pleased to be a part of it.”

About 100 volunteers are involved with the Oak Harbor Music Festival from setup to teardown come Labor Day weekend.

The organizing group is an eight-member board of directors led by Livermore as well as several committees tasked with specific

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Thank You for allowing us to serve your hearing needs. We truly care about providing you with affordable solutions using state-of-the-art technology to help you enjoy the world around you.

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Dr. Kristine Jarrell Board-Certified Audiologist

I am honored to be recognized as top mortgage officer by the “Best of Whidbey”.

Lyn Bankowski

NMLS #304060 Assistant Vice President Senior Mortgage Loan Originator Certified Mortgage Planning Specialist

(360) 969-5550 (866) 752-7500 www.lynbankowski.com

When you come to us as a patient, you leave as a part of our hearing care family!

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(360) 678-1423 Audiology & Hearing Aid Services

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www.CoupevilleHearing.com Locally Owned & Operated

© 2015 Starkey. All Rights Reserved. 6/15 37049-15

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READERS CHOICE AWARDS

Washington Consumer Loan Company License #CL-157293

Wednesday, July 29, 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

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THE BEST OF WHIDBEY

‘The Best’ ofWhidbey Outdoors

Readers name the best outdoor recreational opportunities and places Whidbey has to offer, including the best beach, best place to go crabbing, best outdoor activity and much more.

Vashon Glacier retreated, causing large chunks of ice to break off and become buried in rock debris. When the ice melted, deep hollows, now known as kettles, remained.

In addition to the kettles, riders can also enjoy the shoreline of Fort Ebey State Park, with a view of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains.

By KATE DANIEL

With its stunning vista and miles of sandy shoreline, it is no wonder that DOUBLE BLUFF was voted as the most beloved of Whidbey beaches.

The beach, also known as Double Bluff State Park and Useless Bay Tidelands, is located just outside of Freeland.

While walking along the shore — the outdoor activity selected as islanders’ favorite — visitors can gaze across the sea for a view of the Olympic Mountains, Mount Rainier and the high rises of the Seattle skyline.

At dusk, the beach is an ideal spot to view a famous Whidbey Island sunset.

Composed of a 24,354 foot stretch of sandy shoreline and bordered by bluffs at the West and East ends, the beach is ripe with potential for exploration and enjoyment.

A number of aquatic species can be observed in the tidepools while a variety of birds including peregrine falcons, great blue herons and bald eagles frequent the shores.

The beach is an excellent spot for crabbing and clamming, kayaking, kiteboarding, skimboarding

DECEPTION PASS BRIDGE, a treasured landmark located at the north end of Whidbey Scenic Isle Way, affords visitors the chance to experience a majestic, iconic view of mountains, sea and sky. The bridge was voted number one among Whidbey’s numerous viewpoints.

Neighboring DECEPTION PASS STATE PARK, often regarded as one of Washington State’s most stunning natural areas with its old growth forest, miles of beach and an abundance of outdoor recreation potential, was voted as the island’s best park.

It was also voted the best bird watching post, best campground, best crabbing and fishing spot, and best hiking area.

Photo by Sherrye Wyatt

Double Bluff in Freeland was voted the best beach on Whidbey Island. It’s sandy shoreline and abundant tidelands make it ideal for beach walking and exploring. and paddleboarding, and includes a leash-free dog area where canine companions can run, jump and splash to their heart’s content.

Though the beach’s popularity is frequently evident by its limited parking, the shore’s expan-

sive size makes it unlikely to feel crowded at any given time.

Double Bluff is one of many of the island’s natural treasures.

The KETTLES TRAIL SYSTEM, chosen as the best spot

for biking, offers more than 30 miles of trails and an opportunity to observe a slice of geological history.

The kettles of Central Whidbey were created at the end of the last ice age, when the melting

SEE OUTDOORS, A14

Land Title and Escrow has 5 locations to serve you in Island & Skagit Counties!

“We Deliver ResultsNot Just Promises” All Title Companies are not the same.

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Whidbey’s Best Seafood • Clam Chowder • Fish-N-Chips

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GREAT FRESH SEAFOOD MENU! Serving lunch and dinner in a comfortable, inviting atmosphere!

Grilled Wild Fish Sandwiches • Specialty Fish & Chips • Homemade Soups Gourmet Burgers • Fresh Shellfish • Salads FIND US AT SEABOLT’S AT DECEPTION PASS! Limited menu & take out menu.

Inside seating! Lots of Seabolt’s products, camping supplies.

We Ship Worldwide! Order Online: www.seabolts.com

675-6485 • 31640 SR 20 #3, OAK HARBOR

"Thank you for voting us - Best Title Company" OAK HARBOR

FREELAND

ESCROW DEPT. 360-679-5055 TITLE DEPT. 360-675-2246 TOLL FREE 800-829-5263

ESCROW DEPT. 360-331-4838 Fax: 360-331-4837

1080 NE 7th Avenue, Oak Harbor

CHRISTA CANELL, BRANCH MANAGER/LPO Christa@Ltco.com

5595 Harbor Ave, Ste. C, Freeland

www.LTCO.com

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THE BEST OF WHIDBEY

2015 WHIDBEY NEWS GROUP READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

Thank You Voters for Your Support!!

Open everyday from 6AM to ....

331-9945 • 1642 E. Main St. Freeland Photo by Jessie Stensland

Oak Harbor firefighter Genevieve Reeves was named Whidbey’s best after less than three years with the Oak Harbor Fire Department.

Readers name Reeves as Whidbey’s best firefighter

By JESSIE STENSLAND

She can pull you out of a fire and save your pet gerbil on the way out.

She can stop the bleeding and restart your heart. She knows how to wield a hose, an axe, the Jaws of Life and can drive a firetruck bigger

than a school bus.

Among the many people who were voted as the “Best of Whidbey,” Genevieve Reeves is perhaps the most likely to save your life.

Reeves has only been a firefighter with the Oak Harbor Fire Department for

less than three years, but she’s well known enough to garner the most votes among her peers.

Equally humble and earnest, Reeves is a little embarrassed by the honor.

SEE FIREFIGHTER, A13

Thank you voters!

Whidbey General’s healthcare providers are top-notch! www.whidbeygen.org

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Pictured from left to right are GABRIEL BARRIO, MD

DOUGLAS LANGROCK, MD; KRISTINE YOUNG, PA-C; and CHRISTOPHER BIBBY, MD

of Pediatric Associates of Whidbey Island

all of Whidbey Community Physicians

360-675-5555

360-675-6648

275 SE 4th Ave, Oak Harbor, WA

275 SE Cabot Drive, Ste. B101, Oak Harbor, WA

Wednesday, July 29, 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

THE BEST OF WHIDBEY

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2015 WHIDBEY NEWS GROUP READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

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On behalf of the Volunteers at The Garage of Blessings,

Thank you for voting for us!

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Best Nonprofit Best Community Volunteer

3159A Goldie Road, Oak Harbor • 360-679-1239 • TheGarageOfBlessings.com

THANK YOU for voting us -- BEST EQUIPMENT RENTAL -EW EY N S GR DB

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Hizon, an Oak Harbor councilwoman who’s been an outspoken supporter of the fire department over the years.

Reeves went through the rigorous firefighting academy that the Oak Harbor Fire Department and North Whidbey Fire and Rescue put on each year. She’s also an emergency medical technician.

Fire Chief Ray Merrill said Reeves is probably the most active of the department’s paid-on-call firefighters. He said there are certain prerequisites for being an ideal firefighter.

“You have to have a passion for the job, a dedication to the community, a dedication to the job, a desire to help others, ingrained core values about helping others in need and a willingness to learn,” he said.

“That describes her pretty darn good,” he added.

She said her goal is to become a career firefighter and then move up into management when she is older and wiser.

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She points out that she is surrounded by a group of amazing, experienced firefighters who taught her everything she knows about the job.

“I love it here,” she said.

“There are good influences all around me. There’s nowhere else that I would rather be.”

Reeves joined the fire department later in life than most, at the ripe old age of 32. She said she tried out a lot of different jobs before discovering her true calling.

“It took me awhile to decide what I wanted to do when I grew up,” she said.

She explained that she feels it’s a privilege to be able to help others. And from her, it doesn’t sound like a cliche.

Originally from Colorado, she joined the Navy and discovered Whidbey Island, where she decided to stay.

Like many people, she was mesmerized by the beauty of the area; she said it’s like living in a postcard picture.

Her girlfriend is Tara

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Reeves loves every minute of it — well, just about every minute. She was on light duty recently after breaking her pinky finger in a brick-wall-related training mishap. But she shrugs it off.

While house fires are less common than in days gone by, the department gets called out on medical emergencies and car accidents more than ever. Modern firefighters, especially those on an island, learn and exercise all kinds of different skills.

If there’s a dog stuck on a cliff or a kid with his head stuck in a fence, it’s the firefighters who respond. If your pipes burst in the middle of the night and fill your house with water, firefighters will show up to help.

If someone drives into a storefront, the department will arrive with brooms and plywood.

Of course, the department is very involved in the community, whether it’s educating about fire safety or showing kids how to spray a fire hose.

“It doesn’t feel like work,” she said. “I never get bored.”

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(360) 679-6626 • 33650 SR 20, Oak Harbor

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THE BEST OF WHIDBEY

Wednesday, July 29, 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

2015 WHIDBEY NEWS GROUP READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

Thank you for voting us the Best of Whidbey!

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BEST FINE DINING BEST CHEF SCOTT FRASER & BEST WAITPERSON - SARA FRASER

360.279.1231 • www.frasersgh.com • 1191 SE Dock Street

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Thank you for placing your trust in us

Gary & Martha Wallin, Owners

Family Owned 51 Years Experience

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Voted Best Funeral Home 2015

Celebrating Lives.

Honoring memories.

Funeral Home & Cremation llc.

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“Expect Excellence”

Wallin BEST OF

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(360) 675-3447

1811 NE 16th Ave., Oak Harbor, WA info@wallinfuneralhome.com www.wallinfuneralhome.com

Walking the beach was voted as the best outdoor activity on Whidbey Island and Deception Pass State Park was voted best park.

OUTDOORS CONTINUED FROM A11 Hikers can traverse any portion of the 4,134acre park for a transcendent experience rivaled by no other. Old growth forest, spectacular ocean and views and an array of wildlife species are just some of the attractions the park has to offer.

CORNET

BAY, the

main saltwater access point for boaters making their way into the Deception Pass State Park, is an ideal spot for crabbing. Plenty of dungeness are available for the catch, either from a boat or from the dock.

The park’s 70,000 feet of saltwater shoreline and 33,900 feet of freshwater shoreline also make it a

perfect place for fishermen to drop a line.

Coho salmon migrate through the pass to the Skagit River, making it an excellent place to reel in a catch. During odd numbered years, including 2015, anglers will also have a chance to catch pink salmSEE OUTDOORS, A15

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Thank you for voting for us in the Best Physical Therapy category Evening Appointments Available Call us today at

360-331-3969, or fax: 331-0152 5508 Harbor Ave., Freeland

Thank You for voting for me as your Aesthetician of choice in the 2015 Best of Whidbey!

Book an appointment with me and see why I was voted one of the best!

OneLashThing.skincaretherapy.net Like me: www.facebook.com/onelashthing 840 SE Bayshore Dr. #203 • Oak Harbor, WA 98277

Wednesday, July 29, 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

WWW.WHIDBEYNEWSTIMES.COM

OUTDOORS

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CONTINUED FROM A14 grounds to choose from: Bowman Bay, open seasonally, Quarry Pond, open year round and Cranberry Campground, hidden within the old growth forest between West Beach, Cranberry Lake and North Beach. Cranberry Campground, the largest of the three, contains 234 campsites and is open seasonally.

Cornet Bay was voted the best place to go crabbing on the island.

Salmagundi Farms

28997 SR 20 | Oak Harbor | 360-929-8772

Thank you for voting us BEST FLORIST

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on.

Avian enthusiasts can view numerous species year-round.

Birds most commonly spotted include cormorants, woodpeckers, flickers, wrens, thrushes, gulls, murres, eagles, grebes and warblers.

Both Hoypus Hill, located within a large old-growth forest, and Cranberry Lake are favorite bird-watching spots within the park.

Cranberry Lake is also frequented by other wildlife such as deer, harbor seals and harbor porpoise.

Camping in the park is a breeze with three camp-

BEST OF

WHIDBEY

360-678-5888 | 360-969-1948 See Us at: 19162 S. SR 20, Coupeville open weekends • We Are Always Buying Antiques LICENSED • BONDED • INSURED

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We are Pleased to Just Be Unique.

THE

Best Pet Grooming

Eco Friendly Treatments 20 Years Experience Licensed & Insured Cat Certification/All Breeds

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Thanks for the Support!

READERS CHOICE AWARDS

360-679-2525 • MyMidwayFlorist.com 91 NE Midway Blvd, Oak Harbor

FAMILY DERMATOLOGY CO.

Thank You WH I

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Thank you for voting for me!

Best Insurance Agent Best Insurance Agency WH I

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Karmin Landry Insurance 31775 SR 20, Suite B-3, Oak Harbor 360.675.4345 • whidbeyagent.com

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to all our friends and neighbors who voted us

BEST DERMATOLOGY CLINIC BEST DERMATOLOGIST - REESE BLIEK, PA We wouldn’t be here without you all!

Medical Dermatology

Cryotherapy, Phototherapy, Hair Disorders, Nail Disorders, Acne, Psoriasis, Skin Cancer Treatments

General Dermatology • Mohs Surgery 275 SE Cabot Drive, Suite A3 • Oak Harbor 205 S Main Street, Bldg B • Coupeville 1804 Scott Road, Suite 106 • Freeland www.familydermco.com • 360-682-5024

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THE BEST OF WHIDBEY

Wednesday, July 29, 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

2015 WHIDBEY NEWS GROUP READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS THANK YOU for Voting us in the top four for “BEST AUTO REPAIR”

WINNERS CONTINUED FROM A9

ARTIST First: MARGARET LIVERMORE Runner up: RICHARD NASH Honorable Mentions: PANDORA WOODS RANDY EMMONS

ASTHETICIAN/ FACIALIST 152 NE Midway Blvd, Oak Harbor

360-675-2754 • www.autorepairandbrakes.com

Thanks!

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101 NW Coveland St. • Coupeville

BEST WINE / WINERY BEST CHEESE SHOP BEST CATERING

First: JULIE WEIBLE, One Lash Thing Runner up: CARLA’S SHEAR INSPIRATION LADIES Honorable Mentions: KATHY NEIMAN-COOPER, Island Facial Aesthetics and Medical Spa MELISSA YORK, Lather Studio

AUDIOLOGIST First: KRISTINE JARRELL Runner up: PETER KEATING Honorable Mention: HOLLY KENNEDY

COMMUNITY LEADER

First: RONNIE WRIGHT, Pacific Grace Tax & Accounting Runner up: DAN OLLIS, Whidbey Coffee Honorable Mentions: SHELLI TRUMBULL, Cascade Insurance GENE KELLY BARNER, Edward Jones, Oak Harbor

CHEF First: SCOTT FRASER, Frasers Gourmet Hideway Runner up: ANDREAS WURZRAINER, Christopher’s on Whidbey Honorable Mentions: GORDON STEWART, Gordon’s on Blueberry Hill SETH MCKEE, Rustica

CHIROPRACTOR

BARISTA First: HILARY CARPENTER, Whidbey Coffee Runner up: SHANNON HOLCOMB Honorable Mentions: J.D., Starbucks COLBY JONES, Whidbey Coffee

Join us for THIRSTY THURSDAY

BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR

First: DR. DAWN MADEIROS, Bayshore Chiropractic Runner up: DR. RONDLE BENNETT, North Island Chiropractic & Wellness Center Honorable Mentions: DR. PATRICIA WASSON, Island Chiropractic DR. JOHN RAYMOND, Whidbey Island Chiropractic Center

360-678-6603 • www.bayleaf.us

First: CAPT. MIKE NORTIER, NAS Whidbey Runner up: TARA HIZON, Oak Harbor City Council Honorable Mentions: BOB SEVERNS, Oak Harbor City Council NANCY CONARD, Coupeville Mayor

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER First: KRISTIINA MILLER, Garage of Blessings Runner up: TINA PROVONCHA Honorable Mentions: TARA HIZON SHELLI TRUMBELL

DENTIST First: DR. GORDON KEYES, Gentle Family Dentistry Runner up: DR. DEREK WIRTH, Whidbey Dental Associates Honorable Mentions: DR. TIM WEZEMAN, Whidbey Avenue Dental Care DR. LUKE WEZEMAN, Whidbey Avenue Dental Care

DERMATOLOGIST First: REESE BLIEK, PA, Family Dermatology Runner up: CORINNE SAYLOR, Skagit Regional Clinic

SEE WINNERS, A17

37+YEARS OF EXPERIENCE! We are here to help with all your business and accounting needs!

Thank you for voting Ronnie Wright WH I

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Best Accountant & Best Business Person of the Year and Pacific Grace Tax and Accounting for Runner up as Best Business of the Year

BEST OF

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121 NE Midway Blvd, Oak Harbor, WA 98277 ronnie@pacificgracetax.com

(360) 675-6838

kathy@pacificgracetax.com

Wednesday, July 29, 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

THE BEST OF WHIDBEY

WINNERS

HYGIENIST

CONTINUED FROM A16 Honorable Mention: AMBER FOWLER, Rosario Skin Clinic

DOCTOR/ PHYSICIAN’S ASSISTANT First: DR. GABRIEL BARRIO Runner up: DR. CHRISTOPHER BIBBY Honorable Mentions: KRISTINE YOUNG, PA-C DR. DOUG LANGROCK

DOG TRAINER First: CAROL GANNAWAY, Canine Potentials Runner up: CORINNE BOON, Corinne’s K-9 Cuts Honorable Mentions: KARRY BROOKS, All Critter Pet Center JUSTINE MACMAC, Petco, Oak Harbor

EDUCATOR First: DARREN MCCOY, OHHS Runner up: KAREN HAMMING, OH ELEMENTARY Honorable Mention: JENNIFER YATES, OHHS

EYE CARE PROFESSIONAL First: KELLY LARSEN, Whidbey Vision Care Runner up: CHRIS GAUSTAD, Whidbey Vision Care Honorable Mention: MARK CHICHOWSKI, Whidbey Eye Center Honorable Mention: ROBERT JOHNSON, Island Eye Care

FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Runner up: DARIN COOK, Cook Wealth Management Honorable Mentions: JEFF PLEET, Edward Jones KEVIN LUNGREN, Edward Jones

FIREFIGHTER First: GENEVIEVE REEVES Runner up: MIKE ENGLE Honorable Mentions: JERRY HELM CHRIS CHASTAIN

FIRST RESPONDER First: ROBERT MAY Runner up: REN WALDRON Honorable Mentions: CHRIS TUMBLIN GUY FEALEY

First: GENE KELLY BARNER, Edward Jones

Thank you for voting us in the

TOP 4 TITLE COMPANIES on Whidbey Island

Chicago Title Company

Strength and Stability in Island County.

First: JILL VASQUEZ, Vasquez Dentistry Runner up: NANCY HORNING, Whidbey Avenue Dental Honorable Mentions: CAROL JOHNSTON, Dr. Wyman’s office JAMIE TREADWELL

INSURANCE AGENT First: KARMIN LANDRY, State Farm Runner up: SHELLI TRUMBULL, Cascade Insurance Agency Honorable Mentions: MATT IVERSON, Allstate Insurance STEVE RICHARDSON, Steve Richardson Insurance

LEGAL PROFESSIONAL First: MOLLY MCPHERSON, McPherson & McPherson Runner up: CHRIS SKINNER

Page A17 Honorable Mentions: LAURA HOUCK RENEE GIUGLIANO

Honorable Mentions: MIKE WALLER JACOB COHEN

MASSAGE THERAPIST First: CAROLYN BRADY Runner up: BRANDY SLAUGHTER Honorable Mentions: TAVEY HARR, Allure Salon & Spa TIE: RHONDA INCE & JULIENE MARTON

MORTGAGE OFFICER First: LYNN BANKOWSKI, Alaska USA Runner up: KAREN HUFF, Guild Mortgage Honorable Mentions: MICHELLE CURRY, Peoples Bank TONY PEPLINSKI, Guild Mortgage

PHOTOGRAPHER

LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER First: LARRY PROVONCHA Runner up: JENNIFER GRAVEL Honorable Mentions: JENNIFER YZAGUIRRE TONY SLOWICK

REAL ESTATE AGENT First: TINA PROVONCHA, Windermere OH Runner up: ANNIE CASH, Windermere OH Honorable Mentions: CRAIG MCKENZIE, Windermere OH JOE MOSOLINO, Windermere, S. Whidbey

First: RYAN NOWICKI Runner up: MICHAEL STADLER

SEE WINNERS, A18

Thanks for Voting Us Into the top 4 for Plumbing!

Whidbey Island Plumbing Lic. #WHIDBIP922CS • Bonded • Insured

Commercial Residential Thank you for your continued support.

BEST Ice Cream / Frozen Yogurt WH I

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Oak Harbor 360-675-0733

READERS CHOICE AWARDS

Oak Harbor • 360-632-3475 whidbeyislandplumbing.com

(360) 682-6695 • 32650 SR 20, A101 • Oak Harbor

Thank you Whidbey Island for voting us: -Best Breakfast -Best Family Restaurant and voting us in top 4 : -Best Burger -Best Fish-n-Chips WH I

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Hours: Mon—Thu : 6am - 9:30pm Fri—Sat: 6am - 10pm Sun: 6am - 9:30pm

(360) 279-2838 • 32070 State Route 20, Oak Harbor, WA • www.islandcafefamilydining.com

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Wednesday, July 29, 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

2015 WHIDBEY NEWS GROUP READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

Dog Day Care

Let us wear your dog out!

Thanks for the votes & support!

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Fully interactive with staff Weekly & Monthly Rates

360-675-4483

theDogwoodonWhidbey.com • 2945 Taylor Rd • Oak Harbor

CARPET ONE FLOOR & HOME

THANKS YOU, Whidbey Island,

For Voting Us Runner Up in

BEST

FLOORING STORE! FLOORS PLUS CARPET ONE & HOME 360.679.5570 3175 NORTH GOLDIE ROAD, OAK HARBOR floorspluscarpetoneoakharbor.com FREELAND CARPET ONE FLOOR & HOME 360.331.5570 5618 FISH ROAD, SUITE C, FREELAND floorspluscarpetonefreeland.com

HARADA PHYSICAL THERAPY Your Hometown Therapists

www.haradapt.com

www.facebook.com/HaradaPT

Phone: (360) 679-8600 | Fax: (360) 679-8554 | 210 SE Pioneer Way #2 | Oak Harbor

WE GIVE THANKS TO OUR CUSTOMERS

BY PROVIDING THE BEST SERVICES AND SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY CREATORS OF THE FANBULANCE!

SERV

ING OUR COMMUNITY FOR

25 Y E A R S

623 INDUSTRIAL AVENUE, OAK HARBOR

360-675-4949

STYLIST

EL CAZADOR CANTINA

First: TINA PROVONCHA Runner up: MEGHAN SAMS Honorable Mentions: RICKY CONKLIN KATY HERRON

VETERINARIAN First: DR. LARK GUSTAFSON, Penn Cove Veterinary Runner up: DR. ERIC ANDERSON, Best Friends Veterinary Honorable Mentions: DR. KAREN SCHMIDT, Penn Cove Veterinary DR. ERICA SYRING, Best Friends Veterinary

WAITPERSON First: SARA FRASER, Frasers Gourmet Hideaway Runner up: PATRICIA BARRERA, El Cazador Honorable Mentions: HALEY PLUMLY, Toby’s Tavern JAMIE ZOOK, Flyers

ASIAN FOOD First: CHINA CITY Runner up: 123 THAI Honorable Mentions: SWEET RICE TOKYO STOP

BAR/TAVERN/ LOUNGE First: TOBY’S TAVERN Runner up: FLYERS Honorable Mentions: CHINA CITY LOUNGE

BBQ First: BBQ JOINT

Runner up: SHONOFF Honorable Mentions: FLYERS DOUBLE BARREL BBQ

BREAKFAST First: ISLAND CAFE Runner up: KNEAD & FEED Honorable Mentions: FRANK’S PLACE FREELAND CAFE

BURGER First: FLYERS Runner up: BUBBA BURGERS Honorable Mentions: TOBY’S TAVERN ISLAND CAFE

CATERING First: BAYLEAF Runner up: SHONUFF Honorable MentionS: HOT ROCK PIZZA BBQ JOINT

CHEESE SHOP First: BAYLEAF Runner up: GREENBANK CHEESE SPECIALTY FOOD & GIFTS Honorable Mentions: SAFEWAY TIPSY GOURMET

CHOWDER First: SEABOLT’S

Runner up: CHRISTOPHER’S ON WHIDBEY Honorable Mentions: TOBY’S TAVERN CAPTAIN WHIDBEY INN

COFFEE/ ESPRESSO

First: WHIDBEY COFFEE Runner up: HONEYMOON BAY COFFEE Honorable Mentions: STARBUCKS CAFE DE LISIO

DELI SANDWICH First: PICKLES DELI Runner up: KNEAD & FEED Honorable Mentions: SUBWAY ISLAND DRUG

FAMILY RESTAURANT First: ISLAND CAFE Runner up: EL CAZADOR Honorable Mentions: FLYERS FRONT STREET GRILL

FINE DINING First: FRASERS GOURMET HIDEAWAY

Runner up: CHRISTOPHER’S ON WHIDBEY

SEE WINNERS, A19

Thank you for your vote of confidence!

Best Dental Office

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CONTINUED FROM A1

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The Dogwood Pet Resort

WINNERS

WHIDBEY Voted in the top 4 in these Categories: • Best Dentist - Dr. Luke Wezeman & THE

BEST OF

READERS CHOICE AWARDS

Dr. Tim Wezeman • Best Hygienist- Nancy Horning & Jamie Treadwell

Come by or call our office today and see what ALL the buzz is about!

New Patients Welcome!

Dr. Luke Wezeman Dr. Tim Wezeman (360) 679-1581 drwezeman.com

Wednesday, July 29, 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

THE BEST OF WHIDBEY

WINNERS

PIZZA

FISH & CHIPS First: SEABOLT’S Runner up: TOBY’S TAVERN Honorable Mentions: TYEE RESTAURANT ISLAND CAFE

HAPPY HOUR First: CHINA CITY Runner up: APPLEBEE’S Honorable Mentions: EL CAZADOR FLYERS

HARBOR Honorable Mentions: BROADVIEW APPLIANCE ACE HARDWARE - FREELAND

First: PAPA MURPHY’S

Runner up: HOT ROCK PIZZA Honorable Mentions: CIAO VILLAGE PIZZERIA

CONTINUED FROM A18 Honorable Mentions: GORDON’S ON BLUEBERRY HILL RUSTICA

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ICE CREAM/FROZEN YOGURT First: TOPPINS Runner up: KAPAWS ISKREME Honorable Mentions: BASKIN ROBBIN DAIRY QUEEN

ELECTRICAL First: AA ELECTRIC CO. Runner up: WHIDBEY ELECTRIC Honorable Mentions: CK ELECTRIC BLUE MOUNTAIN ELECTRIC

SEAFOOD First: SEABOLT’S Runner up: CHRISTOPHER’S ON WHIDBEY Honorable Mentions: TOBY’S TAVERN FRONT STREET GRILL

MARGARITA First: EL CAZADOR Runner up: ESTEBAN’S Honorable Mentions: VALLE AZUL APPLEBEE’S

FLOORING STORE First: HOME DEPOT Runner up: FLOORS PLUS/CARPET ONE Honorable Mentions: NORTHWEST GRANITE & FLOORING JENSEN’S FLOORS

WINE/WINERY First: BAYLEAF Runner up: WHIDBEY ISLAND WINERY Honorable Mentions: GREENBANK FARM WINE SHOP THE TERRACE WINE BAR

MEXICAN First: EL CAZADOR Runner up: JUMBO BURRITO Honorable Mentions: ESTEBAN’S AGAVE TAQUERIA

FURNITURE STORE First: HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Runner up: FURNITURE WORLD Honorable Mentions: NAVY EXCHANGE WALKER’S WHIDBEY FURNITURE

APPLIANCE STORE First: HOME DEPOT Runner up: ACE HARDWARE - OAK

GENERAL CONTRACTOR First: WALDRON CONSTRUCTION Runner up: CASCADE CUSTOM HOMES Honorable Mentions: YONKMAN CONSTRUCTION P&L CONSTRUCTION

HANDYMAN First: ISLAND HANDYMAN Runner up: ALL AROUND CONSTRUCTION & HANDYMAN SERVICES Honorable Mentions: ART OF PERFECTION ALL ISLAND APPLIANCE REPAIR

HARDWARE STORE First: ACE HARDWARE - OAK HARBOR Runner up: HOME DEPOT Honorable Mentions: ACE HARDWARE - FREELAND SEBO’S AT BAYVIEW

SEE WINNERS, A20

3.5” x 2.5” | Maximum Font Size: 30 pt

Thank you for supporting us.

Having trouble with the potty? Just call Scottie!

Kevin B Lungren

Thank You For Your Votes & Support!

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Member SIPC

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We would like to thank our dedicated & professional employees that make this company great.

6315 Storkson Road Suite 102 Clinton, WA 98236 360-341-4556

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Financial Advisor

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40 NE Midway Blvd., Suite 101 • Oak Harbor 360-675-1402 www.scottiesplumbing.com

Mailliard’s Landing Nursery Whidbey Island’s Most Complete Landscape Supply Store

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Thank You For your continued confidence and voting us in the Top 3 for Best Property Management and Best Real Estate Agency on Whidbey Island.

We are here to serve you...

WE ACCEPT our U-HAUL & RECYCLE OR DELIVERY customer YARD WASTE

#1

PERENNIALS • SHRUBS & TREES • GARDEN DECOR QUALITY SOIL MIXES • BARK • ROCK • FLAGSTONE facebook.com/maillairdslanding

3068 N. OAK HARBOR RD • OAK HARBOR www.mailliardslanding.com 360-679-8544

CB Koetje Real Estate www.CBKoetje.com 360.675.5915 Koetje Real Estate

Koetje Property Management www.WhidbeyIslandRents.com 360.675.2271

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Wednesday, July 29 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

2015 WHIDBEY NEWS GROUP READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

Thank You, Whidbey Island ThankKathy You, Whidbey Island Jones and the Staff at Jones Accounting Associates Kathy Jones and the Staff at Thank You for your Jones Accounting Associates VOTE of CONFIDENCE Thank You for your VOTE of CONFIDENCE

WINNERS CONTINUED FROM A19

LANDSCAPING First: MAILLAIRDS LANDING NURSERY Runner up: 3 MEN & A MOWER Honorable Mentions: WHIDBEY LAWN CARE PIONEER TREE

NURSERY/ GARDEN SUPPLIES First: MAILLAIRDS LANDING NURSERY Runner up: THE GREENHOUSE Honorable Mentions: BAYVIEW FARM & GARDEN

Because Peace of Mind is Priceless

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Tax Planning & Advice that you can understand.

Because Peace of Mind is Priceless

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WHIDBEY READERS CHOICE AWARDS

First: SCOTTIE’S PLUMBING Runner up: WHIDBEY ISLAND PLUMBING Honorable Mentions:

First: WAL-MARC STORAGE Runner up: AAA STORAGE Honorable Mentions: OLF STORAGE ISLAND MINI STORAGE

SEE WINNERS, A21

Thanks for voting us Best Thrift Store

BEST OF

Thank you for all your votes in the 2015 Best of Whidbey Readers Choice Awards

Rue and Primavera PHYSICAL THERAPY

WindermereWhidbey.com

THE

PLUMBING

STORAGE FACILITY

READERS CHOICE AWARDS

Oak Harbor, WA 98277 360-675-3030 www.kjonesinc.com 1199 SE Dock Street Oak Harbor, WA 98277 jaoffice@kjones.com 360-675-3030 www.kjonesinc.com jaoffice@kjones.com

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First: HOME DEPOT Runner up: SHERWIN WILLIAMS Honorable Mentions: ACE HARDWARE-OH PAINTERS ALLEY

WHIDBEY

1199 Dock Street Tax Planning & Advice that you canSE understand.

For Your Vote!

For Your Vote!

PAINT STORE

HARBOR PLUMBING NORTHWEST PLUMBING & MECHANICAL

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HOME DEPOT

&

RentWhidbey.com

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY BEST PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Thank you for recognizing our commitment to Whidbey Island.

Windermere Real Estate/Whidbey Island Property Management/Oak Harbor 360-675-3329

Oak Harbor 360-675-5953

Coupeville 360-678-5858

Property Management/Coupeville 360-678-5858

Wednesday, July 29, 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

THE BEST OF WHIDBEY

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2015 WHIDBEY NEWS GROUP READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

WINNERS CONTINUED FROM A20

AUTO REPAIR First: LES SCHAWB - OAK HARBOR Runner up: JACK’S AUTO REPAIR Honorable Mentions: MARTIN’S AUTO REPAIR MARK’S AUTO REPAIR

BANK/FINANCIAL INSTITUTION

BODY SHOP First: MAIN STREET COLLISION Runner up: CENTRAL COLLISION Honorable Mentions: THE RESTORER PIONEER AUTO

CHILD CARE First: BOYS & GIRLS CLUB - OH Runner up: EBEY ACADEMY Honorable Mentions:

First: WHIDBEY COFFEE Runner up: LES SCHWAB - OAK HARBOR Honorable Mentions: WHIDBEY SEATAC SHUTTLE ACE HARDWARE - OAK HARBOR

EQUIPMENT RENTAL First: DIAMOND RENTALS Runner up: DOUBLE R RENTALS Honorable Mentions: HOME DEPOT JET CITY

FLORAL SHOP First: MIDWAY FLORIST Runner up: THE GREENHOUSE Honorable Mentions: COUPEVILLE FLORIST FLOWERS BY THE BAY

FUNERAL HOME First: WALLIN FUNERAL HOME Runner up: BURLEY FUNERAL HOME Honorable Mentions: WHIDBEY MEMORIAL VISSER FUNERAL HOME

LODGING (HOTELS/MOTELS/ B&BS) First: COACHMAN INN Runner up: BEST WESTERN Honorable Mentions: CAPTAIN WHIDBEY INN INN AT LANGLEY

Computerized Gate Entry • Full Security • Well Lighted • Online Web Access • Online Bill Pay • On Site Manager

360-675-1516

AMERIGAS VANDERYACHT PROPANE

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT First: WINDERMERE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Runner up: KOETJE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Honorable Mentions:

SEE WINNERS, A22

THE

BEST OF

WHIDBEY READERS CHOICE AWARDS

Home • Auto • Boat • RV www.walmarcstorage.com • 1401 N Oak Harbor Street • Oak Harbor

Thank you for voting us

BEST OF WHIDBEY

OIL PROPANE First: SKAGIT FARMERS SUPPLY Runner up: COREY OIL Honorable Mentions:

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First: STATE FARM KARMIN LANDRY Runner up: ALLSTATE - MATT IVERSON Honorable Mentions: CASCADE INSURANCE TRADEWINDS INSURANCE

A Disabled Veteran Run Business • Proudly Serving Our Veterans

2000

Handmade. Home Baked.

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First: WHIDBEY ISLAND BANK/ HERITAGE Runner up: NAVY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Honorable Mentions: PEOPLES BANK ALASKA USA

CUSTOMER SERVICE

INSURANCE AGENCY

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First: AUTO ZONE Runner up: NAPA - OH Honorable Mentions: OAK HARBOR AUTO CENTER O’REILLY AUTO PARTS

DER KINDERHUIS MRS. ASHLEY’S DAYCARE

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AUTO PARTS

BEST OF

WHIDBEY READERS CHOICE AWARDS

We’re Proud To Be Your #1 Choice For Pizza!

Call ahead and Pick Up at the Drive Thru!

360-675-5505 • Oak Harbor

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2014 2015!

Thanks for voting us into the Top 4 Best Appliance Stores on Whidbey Island!

Dr. Eric Anderson & Dr. Erica Syring

voted into the Top 4 for Best Veterinarian & Runner Up for Best Veterinary Office

360-675-5020 • broadviewappliance.com • 31600 SR 20 STE 4, Oak Harbor

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THE BEST OF WHIDBEY

WINNERS CONTINUED FROM A21 TARA PROPERTY MANAGEMENT ISLAND HOMES FOUR RENT

First: WINDERMERE REAL ESTATE - OH & C’VILLE Runner up: COLDWELL BANKER KOETJE Honorable Mentions: COLDWELL BANKER - TARA PROPERTIES REMAX/ACORN

TRANSPORTATION

PET STORE

First: WHIDBEY SEATAC SHUTTLE Runner up: ISLAND TRANSIT Honorable Mentions: AULT FIELD TAXI WHIDBEY ISLAND TAXI SERVICE

First: ISLAND PET CENTER Runner up: SKAGIT FARMERS SUPPLY Honorable Mentions: PETCO WHIDBEY NATURAL PETS

KENNEL

REAL ESTATE AGENCY

First: DOGWOOD PET RESORT Runner up: WATCH DAWGS GROOMING Honorable Mentions: SUNSET KENNEL ALL CRITTER PET CARE

PET GROOMING

First: LAND TITLE Runner up: CHICAGO TITLE Honorable Mentions: PREMIER/STEWART TITLE FIRST AMERICAN TITLE

VETERINARY OFFICE First: PENN COVE VETERINARIAN Runner up: BEST FRIENDS ANIMAL HOSPITAL Honorable Mentions: NORTH WHIDBEY VETERINARY HOSPITAL ANIMAL HOSPITAL BY THE SEA

ANTIQUE STORE

First: A FURRY AFFAIR Runner up: WATCH DAWGS GROOMING & BOARDING Honorable Mentions: HEATHER’S PET GROOMING GROOMING BY MELISSA

TITLE COMPANY

Wednesday, July 29, 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

First: OAK TREE Runner up: SALMAGUNDI Honorable Mentions: PURPLE BENCH RED ROOSTER

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BEST OF

WHIDBEY READERS CHOICE AWARDS

Celebrating our 9th year in Oak Harbor!

601 Midway Blvd • Oak Harbor • 360-679-3500

SEE WINNERS, A23

Thank you Whidbey for voting for us!

Mon–Sat 8am-7pm Sun 9am-6pm 360-331-6799 1609 E. Main St., Freeland

freelandacehardware.com

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for Bayview Farm & Garden

First: WHIDBEY PARTY STORE Runner up: DOLLAR TREE Honorable Mentions: CASEY’S CRAFTS WHIDBEY ISLAND HOMEBREW SUPPLY

more than just a Hardware Store

Honorable Mention - BEST CATERING

Thank you for voting

PARTY SUPPLIES

Freeland ACE

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Tara Hizon

First: CASEY’S CRAFTS Runner up: COLLAGE Honorable Mention: WHIDBEY ISLE YARNS ISLAND FABRICS

BEST BBQ

THE

First: SAFEWAY Runner up: HAGGEN Honorable Mentions: COMMISSARY PAYLESS - FREELAND

First: GERALD’S JEWELRY Runner up: LIND’S JEWELRY Honorable Mentions: WHIDBEY JEWELER JEWELRY GALLERY

CRAFT/HOBBY

Thank you for your votes for

GROCERY SHOPPING

JEWELRY STORE

First: ISLAND DRUG Runner up: RUSTY CHANDELIER Honorable Mentions: PURPLE MOON

BOOK SHOP

• Community Leader • Community Volunteer Serving YOU on the Oak Harbor City Council is an honor and a privilege. Thank you for your votes of confidence. With your support, I will continue to work toward building a better future for our city!

First: MAURICES Runner up: CASUAL HOUSE Honorable Mentions: ISLAND THRIFT MY SISTER’S CLOSET

AQUA GIFTS

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I’m humbled to have placed in two amazing categories!

CLOTHING

GIFT SHOP

First: WIND & TIDE BOOKS

THANK YOU

Runner up: THE BOOK RACK Honorable Mentions: MOONRAKER BOOK SHOP HIS PLACE CHRISTIAN BOOK STORE

BEST OF

WHIDBEY READERS CHOICE AWARDS

bayviewfarmandgarden.com Thank you Whidbey Island for your support in voting us

THANK

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Bl

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Wh

la ere You’re P

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Organic Products

Non-toxic Solutions

Named one of the top 100 Independent Garden Centers in the U.S.

A Full Service Farm & Garden Center

SR525 at Bayview Road • 360-321-6789

Best Electrical

P.O. Box 1034 • Oak Harbor, WA 98277 (360) 675-2203 • (360) 675-6629-fax

Wednesday, July 29, 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

THE BEST OF WHIDBEY

2015 WHIDBEY NEWS GROUP READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

WINNERS CONTINUED FROM A22

THRIFT STORE

South Whidbey State Park

First: ISLAND THRIFT Runner up: WAIF THRIFT STORE Honorable Mentions: GARAGE OF BLESSINGS HABITAT FOR HUMANITY - OH

CRABBING

BEACH First: DOUBLE BLUFF Runner up: West Beach Honorable Mentions: Deception Pass Ebey’s Landing

BIKE ROUTE First: KETTLES TRAIL SYSTEM Runner up: Fort Ebey Honorable Mentions: Windjammer/City Beach West Beach road to Fort Ebey

BIRD WATCHING

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OUTDOOR ACTIVITY

First: CORNET BAY Runner up: Crescent Harbor Honorable Mentions: Penn Cove Saratoga Passage

First: BEACH WALKING Runner up: Hiking Honorable Mentions: Dog Walking Fishing

FISHING

PARK

First: DECEPTION PASS Runner up: Coupeville Ferry landing Honorable Mentions: Cranberry Lake Admiralty Inlet

First: DECEPTION PASS Runner up: Fort Nugent State Park Honorable Mentions: Fort Casey State Park Windjammer/City Beach

HIKING

VIEW

First: DECEPTION PASS Runner up: Ebey’s Landing Honorable Mentions: Fort Ebey Kettles Trail System

First: DECEPTION PASS BRIDGE Runner up: West Beach Honorable Mentions: Ebey’s Bluff Goose Rock - Deception Pass

First: DECEPTION PASS Runner up: Ebey’s Landing Honorable Mentions: Crockett Lake Dugualla Bay

Thanks for Voting for Us! A great hotel that guests love!

360-279-2222 • 33221 SR 20, OAK HARBOR, WA www.candlewoodsuites.com/oakharborwa

THANK YOU FOR YOUR VOTES FOR

BEST LODGING!

CAMPGROUND

BEST WESTERN PLUS HARBOR PLAZA AND CONFERENCE CENTER

First: DECEPTION PASS Runner up: Fort Casey State Park Honorable Mentions: Fort Ebey

(360) 679-4567 • 33175 State Route 20, Oak Harbor TripAdvisor 2014 and 2015 Certificate of Excellence Recipient

THANK YOU for Voting Us Best Eye Care Professional Team Whidbey Vision Care Inc

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WHIDBEY READERS CHOICE AWARDS

Dr. Kelly Larsen Dr. Roy Gordon Dr. Chris Gaustad Dr. Keith Johnston

380 SE Barrington Dr., Oak Harbor

1690 Main St., Ste. 103, Freeland

360-675-2235

360-331-8424

Page A24

Wednesday, July 29, 2015 • Whidbey News-Times

THE BEST OF WHIDBEY

Thank you for naming us

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR as well as

Best Customer Service Best Coffee/Espresso Best Barista - Hilary Carpenter WH I

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READERS CHOICE AWARDS

BEST OF

WHIDBEY READERS CHOICE AWARDS

2015 Whidbey Coffee Scholarship Winner

Hilary Carpenter Best Barista

Jeffry Meier, Winner with Dan Ollis, President & Owner

We are humbled by your continued support.

Follow us on

800-575-JAVA Hwy 20, Oak Harbor

Pioneer Way, Oak Harbor

www.whidbeycoffee.com

4 Island Locations

Clinton Drive-Thru

Freeland Drive-Thru