From Schools To Services, People & Places, Look Inside To See Your Vote.
Published as a supplement to the
Page 2
Best of Whidbey | Saturday, August 21, 2010
www.whidbeynewstimes.com
contents
O.H. YEAH!
Being the best is the best feeling.
Pg. 3 | Best of Whidbey: 2010 on-line survey results Pg. 6 | Recipe for success: Whidbey Coffee Pg. 8 | Service with Style: a haircut with Shear Inspiration
You are the BEST of the BEST! Community Volunteer: Jo Balda Community Leader: Jim Slowik Business Person: Shelli Trumbull Local Band: Midlife Crisis Local Artist: Tyler Potts Local Author: Deb Lund Birdwatching: Crockett Lake Campground: Deception Pass State Park Beach: West Beach Event: Holland Happening Historic Building: Fort Casey Place to Watch a Sunset: West Beach Park: Windjammer / City Beach Place to Fish: Deception Pass Bike Route: The Kettles Trails
Koetje Property Management
Oa Har or CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WHIDBEY ISLAND, WASHINGTON
Pg. 10 | Whidbey’s last new car dealer is its best: Oak Harbor Motors Pg. 15 | Nostalgic Pleasure: Shady Ladies attract antique following
Best of Whidbey | staff Publisher | Marcia Van Dyke Editor | Jim Larsen Design & Layout | Michelle Wolfensparger Words & Images | Justin Burnett, Katie McVicker, Jessie Stensland & Nathan Whalen Marketing Manager | Terri Tinker Marketing | Sarah Felger & Patrick Shanahan
Marketing Art | Rebecca Collins, Holly Rinne, Ginny Tomasko & Leslie Vance Production Manager | Michelle Wolfensparger Selection Committee | Whidbey Islanders who logged on to cast over 400 web ballots for their choice of "best" Whidbey businesses, services, places & people. THANKS!
Additional copies of this publication, subscriptions and advertising information can be obtained by contacting: WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES | 360-675-6611 PO Box 1200, 107 S. Main Street, Ste. E101 Coupeville, WA 98239
on the cover
A montage of why we all love living on Whidbey– the food and wines, the great places to do everything from walk barefoot in the sand to have a romantic picnic, the wonderful events and festivals, the beauty all around us and the great places to live and work. We think the Best IS Whidbey!
www.whidbeynewstimes.com
Say hello to the Best
Saturday, August 21, 2010 | Best of Whidbey
Page 3
The Best Food, Fun, People and Places found on Whidbey, as voted upon by the readers of the Whidbey News-Times.
PEOPLE
NIGHT & DAY LIFE
Best Place to take a Date
Best Place to Work (cont.)
Best Bar/Tavern
Frasers Gourmet Hideaway Blue Fox Drive-in Christopher’s
Whidbey General Hospital
Best Community Volunteer
Best Place to Gamble
Jo Balda at Key Bank Jill Johnson John Dyer
Oak Harbor Tavern Lava Lounge Toby’s Tavern
Best Place to Dance Lava Lounge Element Dan’s Classic Ballroom
Best Place to Play Pool All Sports Pub Lava Lounge Toby’s
Best Entertainment for Kids Blue Fox Drive-In Windjammer Park/City Beach Fort Nugent Park
Best Place to Work Naval Air Station Whidbey Island Chugach
Bayside Casino & Element Nightclub Oak Bowl
Best Community Leader
Best Place to hear Live Music Lava Lounge Off the Hook Tied for third place– Oak Harbor Tavern Element Flyer’s
Jim Slowik, Mayor of Oak Harbor Jill Johnson, Oak Harbor Chamber Sheriff Mark Brown
Whidbey News-Times/File Photo
The “Best place to work� is still Whidbey Island Naval Air Station, according to our online poll.
Best Businessman Best Local Artist or Businesswoman Tyler Potts Shelli Trumbull, Cascade Insurance Tied for second place– Bob Drennan Linda Haddon
Best Local Band/ Musician Midlife Crisis Tied for second place– Johnny & The Bulldogs Don Richards Band
Stacey Neumiller (tie) Linnane Armstrong Perry Woodfin
Best Local Author Deb Lund Laura Moore Peggy Darst Townsend
Continued on page 4
Thank you for voting
Cascade Insurance Agency, LLC for Whidbey Island’s
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Best of Whidbey | Saturday, August 21, 2010
www.whidbeynewstimes.com
RESTAURANTS & FOOD
Best Salsa
Best Asian Menu
Best Mexican Menu
China City 1-2-3 Thai Sweet Rice
Best Coffee Shop/ Stand Whidbey Coffee Starbucks Dragonfly Espresso
The vote for “Best Happy Hour” in north Whidbey Island went to Applebee’s® Restaurant.
PEOPLE
Best Barista (cont.) Best Blogger
Best Bartender Haley Plumly, Toby’s, Jamie Goodenough (tie) Brandy Thompsen Corey Jonsen, Lava (tie) Josee Fraser, Fraser’s
Best Barista Katherine, Drag ‘n’ Fly
Hilary, Whidbey Coffee Leah Norton, Whidbey Coffee
Best Waitperson
Jill Johnson, Oak Harbor Chamber Sue Frause Bill Burnett
Pier Johnson Haley Plumly Tied for second place– Joanna, China City Chelsea Jones, Lava Lounge
Thank You for Voting Us Whidbey’s Best t #FTU 'JTI $IJQT t #FTU $MBN $IPXEFS t #FTU 4FBGPPE 3FTUBVSBOU We Ship Worldwide! Order Online: www.seabolts.com
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Best Barbecue Restaurant BBQ Joint Sho ‘Nuff BBQ Kimo’s BBQ
Best Cheap Meal Taco Bell McDonalds 123 Thai
Best Deli Safeway County Deli, Coupeville Albertson’s Deli
Best Burger Flyers Restaurant & Brewery Toby’s Burger King
Best Clam Chowder Seabolt’s Smokehouse Toby’s Christopher’s
Best Fish & Chips
Esteban’s Restaurant El Cazador Mi Pueblo
Esteban’s Restarant El Cazador Mi Pueblo Fraser’s Gourmet Hideaway Applebee’s Flyer’s Papa Murphys Take N” Bake Pizza Good Times Pizza Factory
Best Seafood Seabolt’s Restaurant Toby’s Fraser’s
Best Dessert Frasers Gourmet Hideaway Applebee’s Christophers
Best Happy Hour Applebee’s China City Flyer’s
Best Restaurant For Kids
Serving Lunch and Dinner in a Comfortable, Inviting Atmosphere!
675-6485 t 43 Next to Oak Harbor Flooring America
Best Automotive Dealership
Maurices Casual House WalMart
Best Shoe Store Payless Shoesource Casual House Maurices
Best Flooring Store Floors Plus Carpet One Floor & Home Home Depot Tied for second place– Wescott Floors (South Whidbey) Northwest Flooring & Granite
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Best place to take kids... To their rooms!
Funniest Voters
Comments
Continued on page 5
Thank You for voting our doc’s the best Dr. Douglas Langrock Dr. Christopher Biddy PA-C Deborah Biddy
To Go Orders Available!
Seabolt’s Smokehouse Seafood Market & Deli
Shady Ladies Antiques Oak Tree Antiques Elkhorn Trading Co.
Best Women’s Clothing Store
Best Pizza
Seabolt’s Smokehouse Toby’s Flyer’s
Best Antique Store
Oak Harbor Motors Slowick Motors Whidbey Island Mazda
Best Steak
Applebee’s McDonald’s Good Times Pizza
SHOPPING
ʻʻ
Page 4
The crew at Whidbey’s
BEST TIRE STORE
(9 years in a row!) Thanks the Best Customers EVER for your votes!
Les Schwab Tire Center
360.679.1535 • 31720 SR 20, Oak Harbor Mon-Fri 8-6 • Sat 8-5
Whidbey Community Physicians Board Certified Family Practitioners 275 SE Cabot Drive Ste B101 Oak Harbor, WA 98277 360-675-6648 www.whidbeyphysicians.com
www.whidbeynewstimes.com
Saturday, August 21, 2010 | Best of Whidbey
SHOPPING
Best Flower Shop Midway Florist Greenhouse Florist & Nursery
Best Personal Trainer
Best Thrift/Resale Store
SERVICES
Tyson Van Dam, Thrive John Atkins, Thrive Jamie Armstrong
Island Thrift WAIF Thrift Store Tied for third place– Good Cheer (South Whidbey) Habitat for Humanity
Best Accountant
Kathy Jones, Jones Accounting Kathy Jolly John Kingma
Best Tire Store
BBQ Joint Sho’ Nuff Foods Serendipity Catering
Best Jewelry Store
Best Furniture Store
Gerald’s Jewelry Jewelry Gallery Island Jewelers
Whidbey Furniture Furniture World Tied for third place– NEX Furniture Store Habitat for Humanity Restore
Best Nursery
Greenhouse Florist & Nursery Mailliard’s Bayview Farm & Garden
Best Gift Store Island Drug Wal Mart Brenda’s Front Porch
Best Tattoo Shop Aaron’s Tattoo Hooligan’s Tattoo Island Ink
Best Grocery Store
Best Pharmacy
Safeway Albertson’s Saar’s Marketplace
Best Gym/Fitness/ Yoga Center
Island Drug Wallgreens Lind’s Pharmacy
Thrive North End Fitness Lotus
Les Schwab Precision Tire Midway Muffler & Tire
Best Caterer
Page 5
THANKS! To everyone who logged on to whidbeynewstimes.com & voted for “The Best”
Best Plumber Best Beauty Salon Scottie’s Plumbing & Artisianos Carla’s Seaside Spa & Salon
Best Hardware Store Ace Hardware Home Depot Sebo’s Hardware
Best Place for a Haircut Carla’s Shear Inspirations Artisianos Posh Salon
Repair Northwest Plumbing & Mechanical All Island Plumbing
Best Cleaning Service Margie’s Maids A+ Cleaning Servicemaster
Best Contractor/ Builder Kingsmen Construction Yonkman Construction Waldron Construction
Your favorite park is still Windjammer Park in Oak Harbor, pictured above during Driftwood Day, held each September.
Congratulations Laura Jean! T hank You Frasers Gourmet Hideaway!
Your vote for “Best Place to take a date” was Frasers Gourmet Hideaway, where you’ll find a great wine list to choose the perfect accompaniment to your romantic meal.
Oak Harbor’s Oldest Antique Store
Shady Ladies’
Whidbey’s Ultimate Dining Experience Dramatic Open Chef’s Kitchen
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We’ve been open for 18 years because of you!!
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Thank you Scott Fraser for providing a $50.00 gift certificate to Fraser’s Gourmet Hideway, to the randomly selected Best of Whidbey voter Laura Jean! Thank you to all of the people who submitted entries to the 2010 Best of Whidbey contest on-line, it was a great success.
Visit our full menu at www.frasersgh.com
656 Bayshore Drive (next to Drivers Licensing)
360.279.1231 4& %PDL 4USFFU t 0BL )BSCPS
PO BOX 1200, 107 S Main St, Ste E101, Coupeville, WA 98239 360-.675.6611
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Best of Whidbey | Saturday, August 21, 2010
www.whidbeynewstimes.com
Recipe for Success: WhidbeyCoffee, Whidbey’s Best BY KATIE MCVICKER | STAFF REPORTER
Dan Ollis, founder of Whidbey Coffee.
It’s scary to think that the beloved institution of Whidbey Coffee could’ve been replaced with the institution of another lawyer, but that was the original plan. Whidbey Coffee, the coffee house winner for this year’s Best of Whidbey competition, was founded by Dan Ollis in 1989. At the time, Ollis was attending Edmonds Community College. He purchased a coffee cart to bring to local fairs in order to make money for law school, but after just one summer in the business, Ollis forgot about the lawyer idea. “I started the ďŹ rst coffee stand, the ďŹ rst one turned into three very quickly and the story goes from there,â€? Ollis said. Currently there are 10 Whidbey Coffee locations employing more than 100 people in addition to an online store. Ollis attributes his Best of Whidbey award to his strong admin-
Celebrating our 4th year in business and 4 straight years as the “Best of Whidbey�
istrative team and dedicated baristas. “We’re trying to give you a great experience,â€? he said. “We’ve got great coffee, and we’ve got great people. That recipe put together into one is what’s giving us this compliment. We’re very honored and humbled.â€? Ollis said he works to establish strong relationships with his employees and enjoys watching them grow from their experience at the stores. He said he still receives college graduation announcements and letters from former workers who want to keep in touch. “It’s always nice to hear that we did it right and that they’ve been proud to work for us,â€? Ollis said. “That says something about our company.â€? And it seems true that Whidbey Coffee baristas are passionate about their work. Assistant manager Hilary Carpenter said she ďŹ nds herself thinking about her job even while on vacation. “I was gone for 10 days and I missed my regular customers,â€? she said. Barista Julie Weible, who’s been with the company four years, added, “The customers are so good to us.â€? Carpenter and Weible work at the two Oak Harbor locations which they said are always busy. According to Weible, the drive-thru line at the Highway 20 location usually wraps around the building. By Labor Day, Ollis hopes to open a cafe at the
Katie McVicker/Whidbey News-Times
Stamp cards of regular customers are posted on the wall of Whidbey Coffee to honor loyal service.
SEE COFFEE, PAGE 7
Thank You!
Celebrating our 29th Year in Business!
for voting us
Best Flower Shop!
NEW Upstairs Skincare Studio! Come enjoy our “hidden paradise� overlooking the water!
Thank you to all of our customers who have become part of our family.
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Complete Floral Service www.midwayflorist.com
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Thank you for voting us the Best Place to get a Haircut! 830 SE Bayshore Dr, Ste 101 OAK HARBOR
( 360 ) t ( 360 ) 679-4478
www.whidbeynewstimes.com
Saturday, August 21, 2010 | Best of Whidbey
Page 7
COFFEE, FROM PG. 6 highway location that serves grab-and-go food and offers a place for customers to relax and take advantage of the wireless internet. “He’s really going to the nines with this one,â€? Weible said. She said Ollis plans to install at screen televisions and a stand-alone ďŹ replace at the cafe. Furthermore, Ollis said drink options will continue to expand. He said he’s working more directly with importers to ďŹ nd high-quality beans. “We’re constantly trying to ďŹ nd new projects with new farmers who are trying to work their craft in third world countries,â€? he said. Ollis’ favorite coffee right now is Whidbey’s Founders Blend, but he said it’s nearly impossible to choose when the products are ever-changing. Locations and hours for Whidbey Coffee can be found at www.whidbeycoffee.com.
Katie McVicker/Whidbey News-Times
The daily special sign hangs above picnic tables at the Oak Harbor Pioneer Way location of Whidbey Coffee. At left, Barista Julie Weible prepares a drink at the Oak Harbor Pioneer Way location of Whidbey Coffee. Whidbey Coffee was the coffee house winner for the 2010 Best of Whidbey contest.
ʝʝ
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75th Anniversary 2010-2011 CALENDAR
The customers are so good to us. Julie Weible, Whidbey Coffee Barista
We’re Glad You Like Us New 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Historic photos, nostalgic news articles and items of interest about the origins of the Deception Pass Bridge
only $5.00 360-675-6611
Call the Whidbey News-Times Office or stop by to get yours while supplies last!
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Come to the place where we’ll treat you right!
Still haven’t seen the light?
Your patronage and confidence over the years has made it possible for us to be Whidbey’s Best Furniture Store and Mattress Center.
Thanks, We like you too!
Your Locally Owned
150 SE Pioneer Way
360-679-3533
Whidbey Furniture Celebrating 61 Years of Business 4& 1JPOFFS 8BZ t 0BL )BSCPS t t www.whidbeyfurniture.com
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Best of Whidbey | Saturday, August 21, 2010
www.whidbeynewstimes.com
A haircut with Shear Inspiration BY NATHAN WHALEN | STAFF REPORTER
While several businesses in Oak Harbor have gone under during these tough times, one long-standing business in downtown expanded. Carla Dozier, owner of Carla’s Shear Inspiration, started a skin care studio last May on the second floor of its Bayshore Drive location. She has two rooms in a recently renovated space for staff to offer customers facials in a quiet, relaxed setting where guests enjoy tranquil music and picturesque views of the harbor and, on a clear day, Mount Ranier. In addition, she has developed a devoted clientele in her nearly 30 years of business. Her customers are so faithful, in fact, that they named Carla’s Shear Inspiration as the best place to get a haircut and the second best hair salon overall in the 2010 Best of Whidbey competition organized by the Whidbey News-Times.
Dozier said that despite the current economic times, her staff assures success by making sure their customers have an enjoyable experience. “We try to make them feel really comfortable,” Dozier said. Carla’s Shear Inspiration employs 13 people and her business offers facials, manicures, pedicures and haircuts. She noted her business is a bit unusual for hair salons. In a business where many salons lease booth space to stylists, Dozier said hers is different because her staff are employees. “In order to maintain a professional environment, you have to maintain some sort of control,” Dozier said. Dozier started working as a hairstylist when she was only 16 years of age. In 1981 she opened Carla’s
SEE CUT, PG. 9
Voted Best Mortgage Lender Thank you so much for the opportunity to be of service… Your trust, friendship, and business are important to me. With heartfelt appreciation, Lyn
Lyn Bankowski
Assistant Vice President Senior Mortgage Loan Originator Office: (360)
679-9755 Direct: (360) 679-5633 Cell: (360) 969-5550 l.bankowski@alaskamortgage.com
Nathan Whalen/ Whidbey News-Times
The employees of Carla’s Shear Inspiration are a reason it’s been mentioned frequently in the Best of Whidbey contests over the years. From left are Nancy Van Dam, Lacey Lang, Carla Dozier, Val Bryant, Bethany Hazelin, Susan Baza, Teresa Uribe, Laura Crendall, Julia Kellogg and Kirsten Laney.
I’M GRATEFUL FOR THE
SUPPORT OF MY COMMUNITY. I became an Edward Jones financial advisor because I wanted to be part of a firm that truly puts its clients’ needs first. I believe our long-term investment philosophy, conveniently located offices and personal face-to-face approach show our commitment to helping the people in the communities we serve every single day. On behalf of Edward Jones and my branch office, it gives me great pride to have been named Best Financial Planning by “The Best of Whidbey.” This recognition wouldn’t have been possible without your support, and for that I’m grateful. Scott Dudley, AAMS® Financial Advisor
32650 Sr 20 Suite C-101 Oak Harbor, WA 98277 360-679-2527
PEOPLE YOU KNOW. A NAME YOU CAN TRUST. APPLY ONLINE 24/7 www.lynbankowski.com
“Best Asian Menu”
Thank you to our customers for voting us a 1st Place Winner! Happy Hour from 3-6pm$2 Well Drinks $2 Domestic Drafts 1/2 Price Appetizer Specials from 11am-7pm We deliver all day from 11am-9pm.
www.chinacityrestaurant.com Oak Harbor Freeland 33185 SR 20 1804 E. Scott Rd.
279-8899
331-8899
www.whidbeynewstimes.com
Saturday, August 21, 2010 | Best of Whidbey
CUT, FROM PG. 8
Shear Inspiration, which was then located in Old Town Mall on Pioneer Way in downtown Oak Harbor. Her business then had five chairs but outgrew that space five years later and she moved to its current home on Bayshore Drive. Recently, after the United Way of Island County moved several blocks away, Dozier, who also owns the building, decided to renovate the second floor space to expand her skin care studio. She thanked her family for their help in completing the renovations. “What I’m really proud of is reinvesting in this business and in Oak Harbor,” Dozier said. In 2011, her business will celebrate 30 years. Carla’s Shear Inspiration has been an award winner in previous years of the Best of Whidbey contest. Last year, the business was named second best hair salon. In 2010, the popular hair salon earned best haircut and finished ahead of Artisiano’s and Posh Salon. It also earned second best beauty salon, finishing behind Artisiano’s and ahead of Seaside Spa and Salon. Carla’s Shear Inspiration is located at 830 SE Bayshore Dr. in Oak Harbor. It is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. It is closed Sunday and Monday. For more information, call 679-4477.
Nathan Whalen/staff photo
Martin’s
Carla’s Inspiration owner Carla Dozier snips the hair of Connie Sullivan, who has been a customer for nearly 30 years. Dozier’s business was named “Best place to get a haircut” in the 2010 Best of Whidbey contest. The shop recently expanded its skin care studio by moving it to the second floor.
AUTO ELECTRIC, L.L.C.
We’d Like To Make One More Nomination For ‘‘The Best Of Whidbey.’’ Our Customers.
®
Voted “Best Place To Get Your Car Fixed” Thank You to our loyal customers for all of your support and votes!
360-675-2754
Mon-Fri 8am -5pm, Closed Sat & Sun
152 NE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor
Come see us on Oak Harbor’s Other Main Street!
Your Family Owned & Operated Full Service Auto Repair Shop Since 1959
www.wibank.com
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Best of Whidbey | Saturday, August July 18,21,20092010
www.whidbeynewstimes.com
Whidbey’s last new car dealer is its best How it plans to roll into the future BY JUSTIN BURNETT | STAFF REPORTER
For the fourth time in 10 years, Whidbey NewsTimes readers have named Oak Harbor Motors the best new car dealership on Whidbey Island. Readers responded to the newspaper’s annual contest by online survey and made it clear that the dealership is their top pick when shopping for a new ride anywhere on the island. Admittedly, the list was much smaller than in years past. At the time of the survey, the dealership’s only competition was Slowik Motors and Whidbey Island Auto Group, LLC, more commonly known as Whidbey Island Volkswagen Mazda. It closed its doors July 30, following in the footsteps of Whidbey Island Ford and Frontier Chevrolet, both of which folded over the past two years. While Oak Harbor Motors remains the last holdout, owners Mike and Cathy Horrobin maintain that they aren’t going anywhere. With their ďŹ veyear plan in place, and having already made many of the tough but necessary decisions, they are here to stay. They believe they can not only do just that, but that it’s also the right thing to do. “We’ve made a commitment to our people,â€?
Justin Burnett/ Whidbey News-Times
Mike and Cathy Horrobin, owners of Oak Harbor Motors, hold a framed copy of the 1979 Whidbey NewsTimes cover story detailing their purchase of the dealership. It is now the only new car dealership left on Whidbey Island..
T hank You!
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Mike Horrobin said. “You have to.� “Our employees mean a lot to us,� Cathy Horrobin said. The Horrobins have owned and operated the dealership for the past 31 years. Its longevity is really no surprise when you consider who is at the helm. Growing up in Pasco of the Tri-Cities area, the duo make an awesome business team. You could chalk that up to them being high school sweethearts. But selling cars is also in their blood. Mike Horrobin grew up running around his father’s dealership in Pasco, and his grandfather was selling cars in Seattle as early as 1935. While
he initially fought against following in their footsteps, making a brief foray into the banking business, it wasn’t long before he was selling cars in the Seattle area like his grandfather before him. To get away from the city, the Horrobins and their two children moved to Oak Harbor and purchased the dealership from Eddie Bowyn in 1979. A lot has changed since then. New cars no longer sell for just a few thousands dollars, and a large portion of their sales is generated
Thanks for Voting me Whidbey’s Best Realtor!
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gerry@cbwhidbey.com
www.whidbeynewstimes.com
MOTORS, FROM PAGE 10 from online buyers. Just last month, a car was shipped to a customer in Salt Lake City, Utah. The industry as a whole is also undergoing unprecedented strain. According to a February press release from Detroit-based Urban Science, a consulting ďŹ rm that tracks foreign and domestic dealerships statistics, the nationwide dealership count for the year fell by 1,603, or 8 percent, to 18,481. The decline was double the 2008 record of 881 dealers, which was the largest since 1991 when data was ďŹ rst collected, the release said. It went on to say the numbers were mostly a result of automakers taking proactive action to reduce dealer count, with GM and Chrysler accounting for approximately 90 percent of the consolidation. In May 2009, 800 Chrysler dealerships got franchise cancelation notices. Oak Harbor Motors, which sells new Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep automobiles, was spared mainly because of its good reputation, according to Mike Horrobin. However, there is no doubt the island’s last new car dealership has experienced its fair share of ďŹ nancial troubles. In 2005, the Horrobins grossed $13.5 million in sales. That fell to $11.3 million in 2006, $11 million in 2007, and $10 million in 2008. Ten million in sales is not too shabby, said Mike Horrobin, but revenues plummeted again in 2009 to just $8.5 million. “When that happens, you have to make adjustments,â€? he said. “You have no choice.â€? The Horrobins are around the ofďŹ ce a lot more these days doing the jobs once held by other employees. They are also careful about borrowing. Much of the dealerships inventory
Saturday, August 21, 2010 | Best of Whidbey is purchased with existing currency, rather than with loans from banks. The concept is simple, Cathy Horrobin said: Don’t overspend. “Don’t take home the proďŹ ts, rather invest it back into the dealership,â€? she said. Adjusting to market and consumer changes is also key. For example, Mike Horrobin said used car sales are currently the “bread and butterâ€? of the dealership, with 38 sold just last month. Facilitating and meeting that demand is just good business, he said. However, statistics from the state Department of Revenue indicate that used car dealers in Oak Harbor are struggling as well. In 2006, they grossed a total of $12.19 million in sales. That ďŹ gure dropped by a staggering 85 percent over the next three years to just $1.82 million in 2009. During the same time period, new car sales fell from $17.18 million in 2006 to $13.68 million in 2009. Collectively, the drop represents more than just a drop in the bucket to city coffers. In 2006, the combined industries brought in $249,624 in sales tax revenue for Oak Harbor. By 2009, the number had decreased to $131,805. According to Sharon Hart, executive director for the Island County Economic Development Council, the loss of jobs is painful as well. With 75 percent of all businesses in Island County employing eight or fewer people, new car dealerships are considered large-scale employers. Oak Harbor Motors currently employs 26 employees, and the Volkswagen Mazda dealership employed 20. “It’s really hard to back ďŹ ll those kinds of employers,â€? Hart said. Some of those employees have been hired on by the Horrobins, however. As new car sales continue to struggle, they are investing in mechanics that can service makes of vehicles once sold by their competi-
Thank you for voting me
Page 11
tors. That not only allows them to capture local business that may have otherwise gone off island, but skilled workers are valuable assets. “Not everyone can be a good mechanic,� Cathy
Justin Burnett/ Whidbey News-Times
For the fourth time in 10 years, Whidbey News-Times readers have named Oak Harbor Motors the best new car dealership on Whidbey Island.
Horrobin said. The Horrobins are considering other means of improving their bottom line as well, from carrying some of the brands once offered by their competitors to expanding car-
care services offered at the dealership. Whatever the future brings, the plan is to continue serving a community that has supported them for more than 30 years. “We are very cognizant and thankful to our community,� Cathy Horrobin said. “They’ve given us a good life.�
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THE BEST OF WHIDBEY. It has been a pleasure serving our community for the last 12 years.
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REGENCY ON WHIDBEY
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Best of Whidbey | Saturday, August 21, 2010
Best Chiropractor Bayshore Chiropractic Schiffman Chiropractic Island Chiropractic
Best Customer Service Les Schwab Tire Center Cascade Insurance Agency Albertson’s
Best Automotive Repair Martin’s Auto Electric Jack’s Auto Repair Midway Tire & Muffler
Best Dentist Dr. Keyes Dr. Berner Dr Kallander
Best Doctor Dr. Douglas Langrock Dr. Christopher Bibby Dr. Deborah Bibby
www.whidbeynewstimes.com
I like to be a sheriff who’s very open to the public and accessible to the public. It’s a pretty important part of my job. Mark Brown, Island County Sheriff
Best Bank/Credit Union Whidbey Island Bank Alaska USA Federal Credit Union Navy Federal Credit Union
Best Financial Planning/ Investment Firm Edward Jones – Scott Dudley Cook Wealth Management Edward Jones – Jeff Pleet, Edward Jones – Gene Barner (tie)
Best Optometrist Dr. Gaustad – Whidbey Vision Care Van Cleve Optical Dr. Burge
Best Place to Buy Gas Safeway Cenex – Skagit Farmer’s Supply AM/PM
Best Mortgage Lender Lyn Bankowski, Alaska USA Mortgage Co. Karen Huff, Guild Mortgage Banner Bank
Thank you for voting us
BEST BEAUTY SALON!
Best Insurance Agent
Best Pet Groomer
Shelli Trumbull at Cascade Insurance Allstate, Iverson Agency Steve Richardson Insurance
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Heather’s Pet Grooming Head to Tails Grooming Watch Dawg Grooming
Best Lodging The Coachman Inn Best Western Candlewood Suites
According to one voter the “Best place to get a tattoo” is “My buddy’s garage” another said “Right Cheek.”
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SERVICES
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Funniest Voters Comments
Best Massage Therapist Sooz Konopik at Seaside Spa & Salon Pam Aragon Carolyn Brady
Best Real Estate Agent Gerry Oliver, Coldwell Banker TaraProperties Kathi Phillips Bethany Lamb
Best Retirement Center Regency on Whidbey Summer Hill Careage of Whidbey
Best Veterinarian Dr. Anderson, Best Friends Veterinary Center Dr. Mangiamelli, North Whidbey Dr. Gustaffson, Penn Cove
Continued on page 13
Best Place to Take Kids Best Happy Hour
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791 SE Fidalgo Ave #202 Oak Harbor
360-679-1684
3 - 6 pm & 9 pm - Close Every Day
1/2 Price Selected Appetizers *Offered in the entire dining room
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www.whidbeynewstimes.com Best Landscaping Business Pioneer Tree Service & Landscaping Three Men & A Mower Jason’s Lawncare
RECREATION Best Golf Course Gallery Golf Course Whidbey Golf & Country Club Lamm’s Links
Best Place to Tan Whidbey Tropics Desert Sun J-Sun’s
WHIDBEY ASPECTS Best place to take a walk City Beach Fort Ebey West Beach
Best Historic Building Ft Casey Ebey’s Ferry House The Roller Barn
Best Event Holland Happening Old Fashioned 4th of July Coupeville Arts & Crafts Festival
WHIDBEY ASPECTS Best Birdwatching Crockett Lake Freund Pond West Beach
Best Place to go Camping Deception Pass State Park Fort Ebey Fort Casey
Best Crabbing Spot Cornet Bay Crescent Harbor Oak Harbor Bay
Best Beach West Beach City Beach/Windjammer Park Rocky Point
Best Place to Fish Deception Pass Cranberry Lake Keystone
Lava Lounge in Oak Harbor Two years in a row, according to our online voters.
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Best place to dance... in my living room Funniest Voters
Comments
THANKS!
To everyone who logged on to www.whidbeynewstimes.com and voted for “The Best of Whidbey.”
Best Park City Beach Deception Pass Fort Nugent
Best Place to Watch a Sunset West Beach Deception Pass State Park City Beach/Windjammer Park
Best Bike Route The Kettles Trails Windjammer Park/City Beach Fort Ebey
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“Best place to dance” keeps the beats thumpin’...
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SERVICES
Saturday, August 21, 2010 | Best of Whidbey
The vote for “Best Event” on Whidbey Island is always a tough choice with so many wonderful picnics, festivals and community gatherings. Your favorites again this year: Holland Happening (First Place) followed closely by the Old Fashioned Fourth of July.
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Best of Whidbey | Saturday, August 21, 2010
www.whidbeynewstimes.com
Shady Ladies attract antique following BY JESSIE STENSLAND | STAFF REPORTER
The antique store that was chosen by voters as the best of North and Central Whidbey is certainly also the biggest and the most jam-packed of all such businesses on the island. Owners Patty Henderson and Barbara Bourg moved their antique and collectables shop, the Shady Ladies, from Pioneer Way to a large space on Bayshore Drive two years ago. The location next to the Department of Licensing OfďŹ ce is not as visible, but it hasn’t deterred their customers. “A lot of people come down from Canada just to see us,â€? Bourg said.
Thanks for Voting us
Best of Whidbey
the last 3 years – 2008, 2009, & 2010
Many exciting new things are happening at Gerald’s. Stop in and see our new look!
Proudly serving Whidbey Island for 51 years
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The Shady Ladies Antique and Collectibles shop has a large amount of china and glassware from different eras.
And there’s a lot to see — and buy. The 2,500 square feet or so of space is ďŹ lled with a smorgasbord of items that span the decades. The treasures include ďŹ gurines, cookie jars, hats, clocks, paintings, china, glassware and decorations of all sorts. Perhaps the most unusual item is a mounted goat head with a taped-on ear that Henderson proposed naming “Van Goat.â€? Henderson said people tend to think of the store as being ďŹ lled with glassware, but there’s actually more than 80 pieces of furniture for sale underneath all the other items. The antique business, the women say, has been different since the recession hit. There are no deďŹ nite trends to what people are looking for anymore. People
SEE SHADY, PG. 15 We’re Proud To Be Your #1 Choice For Pizza! 5IBOL ZPV GPS WPUJOH VT #FTU PG 8IJECFZ ‘00, ‘01, ‘02, ‘03, ‘05, ‘06, ‘07, ‘08, ‘09, and again in 2010!
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Saturday, August 21, 2010 | Best of Whidbey
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SHADY, FROM PG. 14 are still spending, but they are more cautious. “We try really hard to price according to the economy,� Henderson said. The women say they’re glad to see a lot of young people shopping at the store. Some are drawn by the perennial lure of vintage costume jewelry, and others have come to realize that antiques are often better quality than items made nowadays. A young mother even came in recently and bought a washboard because her washer broke down. The merchandise in the store is ever-changing, as it’s supplied by a dozen dealers who rent space. Henderson and Bourg also offer their own antiques and collectables; some of it comes from people who walk in the door and have something interesting to sell. A group of people started the store 18 years ago at a Pioneer Way storefront as the Oak Harbor Antique Mall. Over the years it “transitioned� to Shady Ladies, Henderson said, and was located at Old Town Mall for about eight years before moving to the larger space. The Shady Ladies invite everyone to come in and browse. But be warned. The collecting of antiques can be addictive. “It gets in your blood,� Henderson said. “I grew up with it. I was raised by my grandparents, so I grew up with antiques and antique people.�
Jessie Stensland/ Whidbey News-Times
Barbara Bourg, left, and Patty Henderson own the Shady Ladies, an Oak Harbor antique store that offers shoppers hours of browsing pleasure.
Best Friends Veterinary Center Jessie Stensland/ Whidbey News-Times
Collectable Mickey Mouse figures are among the treasures at the store.
THANKS, FOR VOTING US
Thank you to our great customers for voting us BEST VET... again! Voted “Best Veterinarian� Dr. Anderson
Best Place to Buy a Gift and Best Pharmacy!
Oak Harbor - 230 SE Pioneer Way 360-675-6688 | 800-378-6688
Clinton - Ken’s Korner Shopping Plaza 360-341-3880
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Thank you Whidbey Island for voting us best coffee shop for 4 years in a row! Thank you, for showing us how much you appreciate us by not only voting us the best coffee shop for four years running but by also recognizing Leah and Hilary as Whidbey Island’s Best Baristas. We have some great things in store. We look forward to the coming months when we will have the opportunity to share a beautiful new drive up and sit down cafe with the community. And keep a look out for much more excitement to come.
Since 1989 Our commitment to quality is as strong as our island roots.
+"7" r www.whidbeycoffee.com www.whidbeycoffee.com Two Drive-Thru Locations in Oak Harbor: 980 SE Pioneer Way & 31275 SR 20 Whidbey Coffee Is Also Available At: Safeway, Prairie Center & Navy Exchange