An Absolute Avalanche Of Awesome Opinons

2008 Best Of participation shatters records — and a few brains cells
by Chris Kirkland

Wow. Just . . . wow, Saskatoon.

“Wow” is pretty much the only word I can think of to describe the massive avalanche of “Best Of Saskatoon” ballots which we at Planet S received from you folks this year. And after the unbelievable amount of time, concentration and coffee that went into counting the ballots, compiling the winners’ list and writing the congratulatory paragraphs about each, a three-letter word like “wow” is also about the largest phrase I can formulate.

Still, massive brain cell trauma and absolute sleep deprivation aside, I have to say we’re absolutely ecstatic — and utterly honoured — at the manner in which Saskatonians have embraced our annual Best Of Saskatoon Reader’s Poll, now in its sixth year. Truly, it appears that Best Of has become a well-entrenched institution in this city, and we couldn’t be happier.

Initiated right in the very first year of Planet S’ existence, the Best Of Reader’s Poll has always been popular, for some obvious reasons: people like contests, they like to share their opinions, they like to argue about winners and losers and who’s the best in almost any given category of life — and they like the chance to win prizes. Perhaps slightly less obvious, I believe, is the fact that, in a world that’s all too often filled with bad news, people also like the chance to both have their say on, and later read about, a bunch of really positive things.

As with any city (and for that matter, province and country, as well) there are many problems, issues and concerns in Saskatoon that we at Planet S feel justified — honour-bound, in fact — in publicizing, in the hope that we can help contribute to this city’s growth as a decent, caring and enjoyable place to live for all. And certainly, with the current economic boom Saskatoon is both enjoying and struggling with, there is no shortage of both new issues popping up and old problems growing even worse.

But there are also a lot of great things going on here — great people, great arts and cultural efforts, great businesses, and on the list goes — that make this city a great place to live, regardless of the aforementioned concerns. Indeed, it’s those great people, places and things that make trying to fix Saskatoon’s problems worthwhile — because they indicate that, while we may not be there yet, making this into a great city for all just might be an achievable goal.

Because of this — and despite the massive number of hours that goes into its production — the annual Best Of Saskatoon issue is easily one of our favourite issues of the year here at Planet S. And, happily, it’s becoming the very same for an ever-growing number of Saskatonians — but even in our wildest dreams, we never expected what happened this year.

As mentioned, the Best Of poll has always been popular among our readers, and over the years its popularity has grown right along with that which Planet S as a whole has enjoyed. As such, we’ve long been prepared to put some serious work into the business of counting ballots, determining winners, and creating the Best Of results issue. But while we’ve achieved a new record for the number of ballots submitted each and every year that the poll has existed, this year’s tally of the total number of ballots we’ve received shows that it’s more than double that which came in last year! Like I said, wow.

With that, (and with sincere apologies to both our postal worker, for the strain that carrying these things day after day caused to her back, and to the poor fella we hired to count the ballots, for his currently shattered mental state) we present our Best Of Saskatoon Reader’s Poll Results for 2008. Please, have some fun discussing, agreeing with and arguing around the water cooler or around the table about the winners. It’s definitely the most enjoyable part of the process, in my opinion — and hey, you deserve to do so: after all, these are your results, Saskatoon. Thanks so much for contributing.

CITY PEOPLE

BEST BARTENDER
MICHAEL, AMIGOS CANTANA
Whether it’s a perfect pint or a marvellous martini you’re looking for, nobody serves it up better than Michael Eva at Amigos, who pours his way into top spot as Saskatoon’s Best Bartender this year, up from his second-place spot in 2007. Following closely behind are marvellous martini maker Mark at Flint, and proud purveyor of alcohol with a Greek twist, Thanasy Spiloitis, at Koutouki Taverna.

BEST SERVER
LAURA, KOUTOUKI TAVERNA
They don’t just serve great food at Koutouki, they also offer up a singing, dancing and plate smashing (!) good time — and Koutouki’s Laura serves it up better than anyone else in the city. Also perfecting the mantra of ‘super service with a smile’ are Jaime Mah at Sushiro and the mysterious Kevin Lysyshyn — people love you Kevin, but they don’t wanna tell us where you work!

BEST RESTAURANT/BAR STAFF
AMIGOS CANTINA
Day or night, the service is always right at Amigos Cantina, as their super staff of serving experts leaps from second place last year to take top spot in this category. The fine folks at Earl’s nab second place this year, while the staff at the Yard and Flagon are also much appreciated by Saskatonians looking for a great dining and drinking experience.

BEST PROFESSOR/INSTRUCTOR
KURT SOUCY
Proving that the trades are rising to the top of mind for students in resource-booming Saskatchewan, this category sees a winner from SIAST’s Kelsey campus for the very first time. Kurt Soucy (you’ll be seeing him again on this list, thanks to his stellar work on community radio) takes top spot with some excellent engineering courses over at Kelsey. But don’t you worry, artsy types — the awesome educational skills of U of S Art and Art History prof. Alison Norlen put her in second spot on this year’s list, meaning those of us in the liberal education fields are still proudly represented. Rounding out the top three is Keith Walker of the U of S College of Education — meaning that the education of our future educators seems to be in good hands!

BEST CITY COUNCILLOR
CHARLIE CLARK
The top three in this category features exactly the same names as last year, but with a slight change in order. For the second year in a row, Saskatonians with city politics on their mind show their appreciation for Ward 6 representative Charlie Clark by naming him Saskatoon’s Best City Councillor, while last year’s third-place finisher Pat Lorje edges past perennial top-three favourite Tiffany Paulsen to move into second spot.

BEST SASKATOON MLA
PAT ATKINSON
NDP MLA Pat Atkinson is a veteran of Saskatchewan politics — and she’s a veteran of the Planet S “Best Of” Saskatoon winner’s list as well. In fact, she’s the only winner this category has ever seen — and for an absolutely impressive sixth year in a row, voters have elected Atkinson as Saskatoon’s Best MLA. The Sask. Party’s Don Morgan repeats 2007’s second-place finish, while Ken Chevaldayoff hits the list for the first time by edging out numerous other challengers to take third.

BEST SASKATOON MP
LYNNE YELICH
Blackstrap representative Lynne Yelich moves up from last year’s third-place finish to take top spot in this category for 2008, while retiring Saskatoon-Rosetown-Biggar MP Carol Skelton is rewarded for her years of service with second place. Proving that name recognition isn’t everything in politics, former winner and perennial podium-placer “None Of The Above!” rounds out the list in third.

BEST CITIZEN ACTIVIST
DON KOSSICK
When it comes to the hard work of community activism, three names rise above all others in Saskatoon, a fact that’s perennially reflected in our Best Citizen Activist category. 2008’s top three is exactly the same as last year’s, with only the order of finish shifting slightly. Don Kossick moves up from second in 2007 to take the title this year, Peter Garden moves up from last year’s third place finish to nab second spot this year, and our 2007 winner, Lenore Swystun, holds down a very respectable third for 2008.

BEST LAWYER
BILL ROE
In terms of courtroom capability, there’s no hung jury amongst “Best Of” voters — as, for an impressive fourth year in a row, Saskatonians have judged legal eagle Bill Roe to be the city’s Best Lawyer. Jennifer Pereira makes a compelling case for second spot on the list, while voters rule in favour of Mark Brayford for third spot.

BEST SASKATOON BLADE
COLTON GILLIES
It was another non-playoff season for the Blades this year, but captain Colton Gillies was a champion in the hearts of “Best Of” voters, taking the title of Best Saskatoon Blade. Goaltender Braden Holtby whips out his glove to snag second spot, while awesome import Jiri Niemi skates into third.

BEST HUSKIE
ANDREW SPAGRUD
He’s one of the best basketballers to ever don Huskie green and white, so it’s no surprise that Planet S readers have named Andrew Spagrud to be the Best Huskie for the second year in a row. Women’s b’baller Kara Lackie also finds nothing but net with an impressive second-place finish, while Huskie football safety — and probable early first-round CFL draft pick — Dylan Barker intercepts third spot.

BEST SASKATCHEWAN ROUGHRIDER
KERRY JOSEPH
According to Saskatonians, this year’s Best Roughrider is — well, a Toronto Argonaut. Sigh. CFL MVP and Grey Cup winning quarterback Kerry Joseph, despite being traded to the Argos a while back, is still first in voters’ hearts—making it clear that this year’s starter, Marcus Crandell, will have a tough act to follow. Canadian slotback superstar Andy Fantuz gets his big mitts on second place, while Scott “The Moose Jaw Maniac” Schultz blocks out all other contenders to hold down third.

SEXIEST SASKATONIAN (MALE)
THEO KIVOL
His sexy, sultry voice sets the hearts of CFCR listeners afire — and this year, it does the same to “Best Of” voters, as CFCR program director and on-air personality Theo Kivol takes top spot as Saskatoon’s Sexiest Male. And, while it’s sadly tough to catch a glimpse of Theo while he’s on the radio, you can see our sexy second-place winner, Jeff Rogstad, on TV every day! Rounding out the list, hilariously, is Planet S’ own music writer and heartthrob Chris Morin! Every day he comes by for a meeting is a good day around here...

SEXIEST SASKATONIAN (FEMALE)
ANDREA MENARD
She’s Saskatoon’s arts and culture Renaissance woman — and she’s dead sexy, to boot. Actress-singer-writer-artist (whew!) Andrea Menard sets Saskatoon hearts on fire while taking the title of Sexiest Female for 2008, improving on last year’s second place. CTV reporter and anchor Tara Yolan proves that quality news reporting can be entirely sexy by taking second place, while Anna Kunz of Ultimo Euromoda puts the “foxy” in high fashion and takes third.

MEDIA

BEST SASKATOON TV STATION
CTV
Newsflash! CTV has been voted Saskatoon’s Best TV Station! Okay, so it’s not really a newsflash, because CTV absolutely owns top spot in this category (and more than a few others, as you’ll see below), winning it for a sixth straight year — or in other words, for every year that our “Best Of” poll has existed. Rounding out the podium, Global edges into second place to repeat last year’s performance, while CBC again takes third.

BEST TV NEWS COVERAGE
CTV
Here’s a scoop — it’s the crack news team at CTV in top spot as the providers of Saskatoon’s Best News Coverage once again this year. And, just like last year, the newshounds at CBC finish in second place, while Global grabs third.

BEST TV SPORTS COVERAGE
CTV
Wondering whether the Riders stand a chance this year, or who’s going to go first in the upcoming NHL draft? If you’re like most Planet S readers, you’ll be turning to CTV to find out, as once again they take top spot for Best TV Sports Coverage. Global repeats last year’s performance by nabbing second spot on this all-star team, while CBC grabs a bronze medal by taking third.

BEST TV ANCHOR
ROB MacDONALD, CTV
If this poll was The Matrix, veteran CTV anchor Rob MacDonald would truly be The One (and I’d bet he’d do a far better acting job than that Canoe Reeves guy). For an astonishing sixth year in a row, MacDonald tops the ratings as Saskatoon’s Best TV Anchor. Furthermore, MacDonald doesn’t have to look far for the company he’s keeping on this list — because they’re in his own studio. CTV has swept the Best Anchor category this year, with Chantel Huber taking second spot and Trish Cheveldayoff nabbing third.

BEST TV REPORTER
JENNIFER JELLICOE, CTV
It’s a one-network podium sweep in this category as well, as Saskatonians rely most on the CTV when it comes to getting the stories straight. Jennifer Jellicoe nabs Best TV Reporter honours for 2008, followed closely by her CTV mates Tara Yolan in second and Mark Rogstad in third.

BEST WEATHER FORECASTER
JEFF ROGSTAD, CTV
Predicting the weather can be a tricky business — weather systems can change on a whim, turning what was supposed to be a great picnic on a sunny day into a soggy mess where even the ants are drowning. One prediction that’s becoming pretty easy to make, however, is who will win Saskatoon’s Best Weather Forecaster — as CTV’s Jeff Rogstad wins for the third year in a row. Global’s Warren Dean also knows when it’s time to get the umbrella out, finishing in second spot, while Environment Canada’s Bob Cormier swoops in on a westerly wind to take third.

BEST SPORTSCASTER
KEVIN WAUGH, CTV
Well, here we are at the last of the television categories — I wonder which network the winner’s going to come from. Well, no I don’t — because the CTV juggernaut is simply too strong to be challenged. Sports sage Kevin Waugh completes the CTV sweep by taking the title of Best TV Sportscaster for 2008, his third win in a row. Global’s Esther Madziya takes second spot for the second consecutive year, while Natasha Staniszewski from — you guessed it — CTV places third.

BEST RADIO STATION
CFCR
While CTV owns the television categories, it’s CFCR ruling the airwaves — truly, no one can stop the community radio colossus (or at least, no one ever has yet), as they take top spot in the Best Radio Station category for an astounding sixth straight year. C95 jumps from fourth in 2007 to second this year, while last year’s bronze medalists Rock 102 maintain their grip on third spot.

BEST RADIO PERSONALITY
KURT AND JENN, CFCR
Loveable and talented CFCR-ians (well, why can’t it be a word?) Kurt Soucy and Jenn Pereira repeat their 2007 victory by holding onto the Best Radio Personality title for 2008, while C95’s Ramblin’ Dave takes second — also a repeat of last year. There’s one change on this category’s podium, however, as Shauna Foster of C95 sneaks past CFCR’s Theo Kivol and numerous other contenders to settle into third spot.

BEST PLANET S WRITER
NOELLE CHORNEY
There’s nothing better than dining out at a fine restaurant while having a stimulating conversation about current events, before hitting one of Saskatoon’s live music venues to watch a great band. Maybe that’s why — in addition to their journalistic brilliance — voters in this category chose dining columnist extraordinaire Noelle Chorney as this year’s Best Planet S Writer (for the second year in a row!), followed closely by marvellous music critic Craig Silliphant in second, and political analyst par excellence John Conway in third. We don’t blame you — we love ‘em too! — but we’re just as pleased to see a large number of votes for almost all of our regular writers. We’re also downright beaming at the fact that, for the second straight year, “Everybody!” was also a very popular answer. You voters — you’re just so sweet!

BEST THING ABOUT PLANET S MAGAZINE
Entertainment News
We at Planet S pride ourselves on being Saskatoon’s most credible, current and professional source for Saskatoon’s art, culture and city living scenes — so it’s great to see that Saskatonians believe the best things about Planet S to be entertainment news in top spot, followed closely by food reviews! Finishing a strong third in this category amongst voters is the fact that we charge exactly $0.00 for our mag, followed by such blush-inducing entries as “great local news,” “you’re independent,” and “smart, informed and thought-provoking.” Thanks, folks — we’re currently giving every one of you one heck of a great big mental hug!

ARTS

BEST LOCAL BAND
THE SHEEPDOGS
Holy crap — do Saskatonians ever love their local music! Perhaps nothing could speak to the health of our local music scene more than the fact that we received a ton of entries into this category this year, with a ton of different bands grabbing a significant number of votes. In the end, ‘70s-inspired rockers The Sheepdogs (who were recently the subjects of a Planet S cover feature, I might add), won a hotly contested battle, taking the title of Best Local Band. Right behind (and I do mean right behind) were folk rock superstars Deep Dark Woods — who have also been on the Planet S cover! Electro-popster extraordinaire Maybe Smith nabs third spot this year, just ahead of roughly 30 other bands that grabbed a good number of votes!

BEST VOCALIST
JEN LANE
She’s got a relatively new album out, she’s just gotten back from showcasing at the prestigious South By Southwest (SXSW) festival in the U.S., and now she’s been named Saskatoon’s Best Vocalist for 2008 — things are looking good for folk rock chanteuse Jen Lane! (For a whole lot more on why Saskatonians love Jen, see the cover feature in the first section of this issue of Planet S!) Indie-folk singer-songwriter Kirby Criddle has been creating quite a buzz lately, and that’s reflected by the fact that she’s zoomed out of nowhere to take second spot in this category, followed closely by the ever-popular Andrea Menard in third.

BEST AUTHOR
GUY VANDERHAEGHE
With the recent success of a (really good!) CBC miniseries adaptation of his excellent novel The Englishman’s Boy, Guy Vanderhaeghe fans had one more reason to vote for their hero as this year’s Best Author — not that another reason was necessary, really, because Vanderhaege has simply owned this category for a long time. Once again, Vanderhaeghe picks up the title, and once again he’s followed very closely by Anthony Bidulka and Yann Martel — except this year, the two trade places, with Bidulka edging into second spot and Martel nabbing third.

BEST ACTOR
BRAD GRASS
He can move from Shakespeare to slapstick with ease, and he’s one of Saskatoon’s “go-to guys” for almost any professional theatrical production — which is why it’s no surprise that Brad Grass is once again the city’s Best Actor in the hearts and minds of our voters. Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan veteran Alphonse Gaudet trods the boards beautifully on his way into second spot, while Last Exit/Skinny Walrus (both companies under the Live Five umbrella) member Skye Brandon is ready for his close-up in third.

BEST THEATRE
PERSEPHONE THEATRE
It’s impossible to argue with the beauty of their new theatre complex — and according to our voters, it’s impossible to argue with Persephone’s dominance in this category. For a sixth straight year, Persephone grabs top spot as Best Live Theatre Company, while Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan shoots up into second spot, with awesome indie collective Live Five taking third, just ahead of the fine folks at the Off-Broadway Dinner Theatre.

BEST THEATRE PRODUCTION
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
Persephone sweeps the top two spots in this category for 2008, with the wonderfully well-received Beauty and the Beast taking the nod for Best Theatre Production, followed by Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story. But Saskatonians love awesome acting on an indie scale as well, proven by the fact that Skinny Walrus, a Live Five company, takes third in this category with their production Someone Who’ll Watch Over Me.

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE
AMIGOS CANTINA
Planet S readers love live music — and they love seeing it performed at Amigos. For the third straight year, the off-Broadway live music icon hits centre stage to grab the title of Best Live Music venue, while Lydia’s — another always-popular spot to get your gig on — once again cranks up the amps and takes second spot. New on the list this year is The Odeon, which takes third thanks to its ever-growing reputation as a great spot to catch a band, while institutions like Bud’s on Broadway and Louis’ on campus are right behind.

BEST MOVIE THEATRE
GALAXY THEATRE
It’s still relatively new and shiny, it’s huge — and it’s jumped into top spot this year as the place to grab a movie. The Galaxy Theatre megaplex moves from second spot in last year’s Best Movie Theatre category into first for 2008, just edging out local independent icon and 2007 champ the Broadway Theatre in an extremely tight race. Right behind the top two is the wonderfully refurbished Roxy Theatre, with Rainbow Cinemas also a popular destination for catching a flick.

BEST ART GALLERY
MENDEL ART GALLERY
Once again, the cultural jewel on the riverbank reigns supreme, as the Mendel Art Gallery takes top spot in this category for an extremely impressive sixth straight year — c’mon, city/province/feds, get with the program and realize what our “Best Of” voters already know: this place is a local treasure, so kick in the cash and let’s get the expansion/renovations done and truly realize the Mendel’s potential! With that said, there’s some impressive evidence that Saskatonians are also discovering private galleries more than ever before, with the Rouge Gallery taking second spot in this category for 2008, just ahead of the Darryl Bell Gallery in third.

CITY LIVING

BEST THING TO DO IN SASKATOON
MEEWASIN TRAIL
It pleases us to no end that the variety of entries in this category grows each and every year — and it pleases us even more that voters are starting to take an interest in Saskatoon’s cultural side when choosing their favourite thing to do in Saskatoon. Still, there’s no challenging the supremacy of the city’s natural wonder — it’s riverbank and the Meewasin Trail that runs along it — for top spot as the Best Thing To Do In Saskatoon. Once again, the city’s vibrant dining scene tempts voters to put Eating Out into second spot, while the excellent array of bands that call Saskatoon home no doubt has much to do with Live Music placing third.

BEST NEIGHBOURHOOD TO LIVE IN
NUTANA
With the housing market the way it is in this city, we half expected the winner in this category to be “anywhere you can find a place to live.” But nope — Nutana/Broadway area would not be denied, taking the title for yet another year. Indeed, voters were beaming with civic pride for neighbourhoods all across the city, with City Park taking second and Buena Vista third, just ahead of what turned out to be roughly a 15-way tie for fourth spot.

BEST PLACE TO TAKE AN OUT-OF-TOWNER
MEEWASIN
Saskatonians love to head there on their own, so it only makes sense that the riverbank/Meewasin Trail wins out as the perfect spot to show an out-of-towner just how beautiful Saskatoon can be. Voters also enjoy taking their visitors just a bit outside the city limits so they can enjoy everything the Berry Barn has to offer, while the excellent collection of historical treasures displayed by the Western Development Museum is also a big hit for entertaining some “from away” pals.

BEST SUMMER DESTINATION IN SK
WASKESIU
Simply put, Saskatonians freakin’ love getting away to Waskesiu, so it’s no surprise to see it maintain a stranglehold on top honours in the best Summer Destination category. Lounging by the lake has always been a favourite pastime of prairie folk, so it’s equally unsurprising to see Candle lake and Emma Lake take the second and third spots, respectively, in this category.

BEST WINTER DESTINATION IN SK
WASKESIU
Did I mention just how much Toon-Towners love Waskesiu? If you’re not convinced, just look at the fact that the resort has jumped up from last year’s second-place finish to take top spot in the favourite winter destination category, as well. Floating blissfully around in the pools at the Moose Jaw mineral spa has re-energized enough voters to take second spot this year, while last year’s winner, the Table Mountain ski hill, maintains a strong hold on third.

BEST CITY FESTIVAL
SASKATCHEWAN JAZZ FESTIVAL
And now for something completely different — because for the first time ever, we have a brand new winner in the Best City Festival category! After five years of dominance by the Fringe Festival, voters rewarded the impressive and ongoing growth of the Saskatchewan Jazz Festival by voting it into top spot for 2008. Of course, that’s by no means saying that the ever-popular Fringe Festival didn’t receive a ton of votes while finishing second in this popular and hotly contested category, while Taste Of Saskatchewan maintained their hold on third.

BEST GOLF COURSE
THE WILLOWS GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB
For another year, The Willows Golf and Country Club smacks it straight down the fairway and on to the green while grabbing top spot in the Best Golf Course category. Voters also offered nothing but birdies to the Moon Lake and Dakota Dunes courses, both of which edged out last year’s second and third place finishers, Holiday Park and the Saskatoon Golf and Country Club.

BEST FITNESS FACILITY
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY COMPLEX
When a fitness facility greets you with a whompin’, awe-inspiring multi-story climbing wall, you gotta think it’s gonna be good — and in the case of the Physical Activity Complex (PAC) at the U of S, you think right. The PAC grabs top spot in the Best Fitness Category for the second year in a row, edging out both a newcomer to the list, Mawson Fitness, and a perennial favourite, the YWCA, in second and third respectively.

BEST BEAUTY SPA
SPA AHAVA
They’ll pamper and primp you to your heart’s delight — and for that reason, our readers have voted Spa Ahava on Broadway as the Best Beauty Spa for the third year in a row. Voters also showed much love for the relaxation, rejuvenation and special treatment to be found at second-place finisher Angles, and Just For You, which nabbed third.

BEST EMPLOYER
UNIVERSITY OF SASKATCHEWAN
Two all-time favourites switch places on this year’s list of the Best Employer, with the University of Saskatchewan, our second-place finisher in 2007, edging into top spot for 2008. Still, employees continue to love their jobs at the City of Saskatoon, last year’s champ, which finishes in second spot last year. The fine folks down at the Saskatoon Co-op also go to work with a smile, as the Co-op jumps up into third place this year.

BEST EXCUSE FOR BEING LATE FOR WORK
BAD WEATHER
This being Saskatchewan, it’s obvious that “Bad Weather” and “Car Problems” are almost always going to win the day in this category — the only good thing about -40 C is that it’s like a “get out of work free” card, because it’s pretty impossible for your boss to argue. “Had to Wait For a Train” was also a popular entry this year, although probably the most slam-dunk excuse that came in was “Explosive Diarrhea.” Jeez — here’s betting your boss won’t ask many questions about that one.

CITY LOVING

BEST DATE ACTIVITY
DINNER AND A MOVIE
Well, I guess the old adage “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” truly applies here, as Dinner and a Movie reigns supreme as the way to spark some romance for Saskatonians — but it might be getting just a teensy bit dated. A walk along the river was also popular again this year, while more off-beat entries included curling (?), drinking (uh, oh) and “sex — lots of sex.” That last, of course, may’ve just been wishful thinking — I guess we didn’t stipulate that anyone had to agree to go on one of these dates with you…

BEST RESTAURANT FOR A DATE
CALORIES
The cozy confines and classy cuisine of Calories takes top spot in this category for 2008, just ahead of new sensation The Ivy, followed by a host of other fine dining spots where Saskatonians go to get their smooch on.

BEST PICK UP LINE
“ARE YOU IN MY CLASS?”
Entries in this category ranged from the stereotypical (“Is anyone sitting here?”) to the entirely practical (“Can I shovel out your car for you?”), to the entirely confusing (“I know First Aid!”). Oh, and they also ranged to the absolutely unprintable — a few of you folks out there are just plain wrong in the melon. The winner, however, proves that Saskatoon is a university town for more than just education!

BEST PICK UP SPOT
THE UNIVERSITY
With tens of thousands of young guys and gals attending for eight months of the year, it’s hard to argue against the U of S as the city’s primo pick-up locale. Still, while a whole bunch of variations on “the bar” were also popular, some folks obviously like more of a challenge, as they’ve chosen spots like “the grocery store,” “traffic jams,” and “at the bus stop.” Ask him or her out quick, ‘cause the Number 20’s only a block away!

BEST BREAK UP LINE
“I’VE GOT ANOTHER COMMITMENT”
It’s vague enough to confuse, yet inoffensive enough to not lead to bodily harm — so one can see why “I’ve got another commitment” would work for a large number of relationship-phobic Saskatonians. Still, it’s not near as hilarious as “I hate Brad Wall and I’m moving to Alberta!”, which also popped onto this year’s list.

BEST BREAK UP SPOT
TEXT MESSAGE
Technology begins to take over the fine art of “turfing,” as those Saskatonians looking for an escape hatch thank their lucky stars that, finally, there’s something even more impersonal than the telephone break-up! While texting wins, high marks and/or head shakes were given for such unique entries as “the landfill” (very classy, folks), “the Calgary airport” (perhaps not so great if you’re on the same flight back to Saskatoon), and “on a sidewalk in public view” (safety first is never a bad policy!).

LOCAL SHOPPING

BEST SHOPPING CENTRE
THE MIDTOWN PLAZA
Once again there’s no doubt who’s taking this category, as Saskatoon’s downtown juggernaut is the top spot for city shoppers looking to do the mall crawl. Bargain hunters also enjoy performing their multi-purpose shopping at Circle and 8th and Lawson Heights.

BEST CLOTHING (WOMEN)
TONIC
Topping the list of providers of trendy threads for fashionable females for yet another year, Tonic is once again the number one choice for Saskatoon’s ladies. Other big favourites in terms of dynamite duds for girls — from an impressively large list of entries — include Manhattan Casuals and “Best Of” mainstay Ultimo Euromoda.

BEST CLOTHING (MEN)
ULTIMO EUROMODA
It’s a three-peat in the Men’s category this year, with voters once again placing locally owned and operated Ultimo Euromoda right at the top of the list as the best place for men to get their fantastic fashion fix. Gorgeous garments for guys from Manhattan Casuals and Old Navy also excited our readers.

BEST CLOTHING (YOUNG ADULT)
CLOTHES CAFÉ
For hip young clothes horses, nobody does cutting edge duds like Clothes Café, who move into top spot in the Best Clothing (Young Adult) category for 2008. Winners was a big hit as well, but comes up just short of living up to its name by landing in second, and Old Navy proves their name has nothing to do with the age of their clientele by coming in a strong third.

BEST CLOTHING (KIDS)
CHILDREN’S PLACE
Well, it’s all there in the name! According to Planet S readers who are also proud parents of tiny tots, Children’s Place is the place to go when you need dynamic duds for the kids. Readers are also totally down with picking up excellent attire for the brood at The Baby Gap and the Bay.

BEST FURNITURE STORE
LEON’S
This Canadian furniture giant got its start when shop-owner Ablan Leon bought a mattress. Leaving the mattress sitting outside his shop after delivery, it was spotted by a passer-by, who offered Ablan more than he had paid for it. Recognizing that there was a profit to be made, Leon’s furniture was born — and Planet S readers are happy that it was, giving Leon’s top spot for 2008 in the Best Furniture Store category. The ever-popular Urban Barn once again comes in second, and third place goes to The Brick.

BEST SHOE STORE
DURAND’S
Now in its fifth year of operations in downtown Saskatoon, Durand's fine footwear & accessories has walked proudly into their second consecutive “Best Of” win as the city’s top shoe store, edging out Brainsport and Aldo.

BEST OPTICAL STORE
OPTIKA
Saskatonians have once again focused in on Optika Eyewear as the city’s choice for quality eyewear, as they take their second “Best Of” win in a row. Also once again, Point Optical and Saskatoon Optical Services prove that their popularity isn’t slipping a bit amongst the city’s glasses and contacts set, finishing second and third respectively.

BEST BOOKSTORE
McNALLY ROBINSON
Saskatoon's largest bookshop — all 23,000 square feet of it — has once again been named its best, thanks no doubt to McNally Robinson’s selection and the fact that they host a continuing schedule of readings, book-launches and other cultural events of all sorts. Runners-up this year included the “little indie book store that could” Turning the Tide, and Coles.

BEST MAGAZINE STORE
READERS NOOK
It’s a four-peat in this category for the Readers Nook’s veritable smorgasbord of glossed pages, with McNally Robinson once again finishing just behind in second, edging out the increasingly popular Turning The Tide.

BEST SECONDHAND BOOKSTORE
WHITE CAT BOOKS
Downtown’s historic White Cat Books has prowled into first place for the second consecutive year. White Cat features over 35,000 volumes in stock, and a well-rounded selection of second-hand books in all categories. 8th street’s confusingly named Westgate Books finished second, with Tramps only a couple of well-thumbed pages behind in third.

BEST CD/RECORD STORE VINYL DINER
With an extensive and eclectic mix of CDs, records, music DVDs and t-shirts both old and new, Broadway’s Vinyl Diner once again takes top prize as the best place for Saskatonians to legitimately purchase some tunes (What’s that? Nope, we’ve never heard of file-sharing either!). HMV spins their way into second this year, just ahead of the always-on-our-list Vinyl Exchange.

BEST UNIQUE GIFTS
10,000 VILLAGES
Ten Thousand Villages has woven its way into the hearts of Saskatonians with its high-quality, original and unique gifts — and its unwavering emphasis on fair trade. Esteem and Twisted Goods finished second and third, respectively, with voters looking to prove that they’ve put some thought into their gift purchases.

BEST SECONDHAND FIND
VALUE VILLAGE
At the forefront of the retail thrift industry since its founding in San Francisco in the fifties, Value Village once again comes out on top as Saskatoon’s best place to find second-hand merch. The Mennonite Clothes Closet and the Vinyl Diner follow up Value Village in second and third place as great spots to grab some new-to-you stuff.

BEST HOBBY/CRAFTS STORE
MICHAEL'S
When it’s time to do some hobby DIY, Michael’s is Saskatoon’s top provider of the materials and tools that the city’s people use to express themselves. Hobby World and Art Placement are also fine bets according to voters who like to do it for themselves.

BEST LOCALLY-OWNED STORE (NON CHAIN/FRANCHISE)
TURNING THE TIDE
2008 is a good year for this barely-off-Broadway, socially-conscious media distributor, as Turning the Tide flows to the top of the Best Locally Owned Store category. In doing so, the bookstore just edged out a few Broadway neighbours, including the Vinyl Diner and last year’s winner, The Bulk Cheese Warehouse, in a tight race.

BEST SKATEBOARD SHOP
UNDERGRIND
Undergrind ain’t underground when it comes to the wheeled-board set, as Saskatoon’s skaters have again voted Undergrind as the sickest place to check out skateboard gear. Other popular choices were Clothes Café and Nine Times.

BEST BIKE SHOP
BIKE DOCTOR
Bike Doctor’s becoming quite the dynasty on our annual “Best Of” list, rolling into first place in the Best Bike Shop category for the fourth year in a row. Doug’s Spoke and Sport and City Park Cycle also scored well with Planet S’s cycle-friendly readers.

BEST SPORTING GOODS STORE
SPORT CHEK
Sport Chek takes the gold medal for sporting goods again this year, while Al Anderson’s Source for Sports steps up to the silver medal position on the podium, nabbing second place for the second year in a row. Broadway’s Brainsport is also a Saskatoon favourite spot to get geared up, as they move into a solid third this year.

BEST MOVIE RENTAL STORE
ROGERS
The biggest Canadian-owned video retailer is also Saskatoon’s favourite in this new category, proving that late fees might be beneficial in keeping movies available. Arch-rival Blockbuster comes in second — but just barely ahead of Saskatoon’s own Turning the Tide, who once again prove it’s not the size of your store that counts for everything.

BEST COMPUTER STORE
OTV
OTV is Saskatoon’s number one solution to the uniquely modern problem of crumbly software and computer malware, offering a full line of repair and networking services on top of an array of computer equipment for sale. Mac lovers were no doubt responsible for voting Neural Net into second place as the perfect spot to help battle bugs and buy some RAM, while the tech-heads at Future Shop input their way into third.

BEST AUDIO EQUIPMENT
AUDIO WAREHOUSE
Audio Warehouse amps up Saskatoon’s enthusiasm for quality audio equipment by finishing on the top of this category for the third consecutive year. Fellow “Best Of” regulars Visions and Krazy Kiley’s rock, roll and rumble into the second and third spots.

BEST CAR DEALERSHIP (NEW)
ENS LEXUS/TOYOTA
When it comes to this category, the folks at Ens Lexus/Toyota are definitely driving at the front of the pack, as they take the top spot once again in 2008 as Saskatoon’s favourite place to pick up a new ride. Tailgating the winner are Mainway Mazda in second spot, and the ever-popular Meidl Honda in third.

BEST CAR DEALERSHIP (USED)
CAA
The Canadian Automobile Association’s used car dealership is changing people’s misguided opinions about used car salesmen, one customer at a time. CAA finishes as the best spot to pick up a “previously loved” auto this year, while Dodge City and SMP also treat the city’s tire kickers with care, crossing the finish line second and third.

SERVICES

BEST HAIR SALON
ETHOS
Once again, there were roughly a zillion votes in this category, proving that Saskatonians really care about their hair — and once again, a majority of voters take their quest for the perfect ‘do to Ethos, which snips and styles its way to top spot in this category for the second year in a row. Planet S readers also love the styling superstars at Guru, which places second, and Midtown Stylist, who grab third, and a whole bunch of other places too numerous to mention!

Best Tattoo Shop
Eye Of The Needle
This is a new category for our “Best Of” poll, after it won “Category We Missed?” by a wide margin last year — and judging by the enormous number of votes we received this year, it’s about time we got it in here! In a tight race, Eye Of The Needle takes the first-ever title of Best Tattoo Shop, just ahead of Rites Of Passage in second and the Saskatoon Tattoo Company in third.

BEST FLORIST
BILL'S HOUSE OF FLOWERS
Whether for a date or an abject apology, when it came to picking up some fantastic and fragrant flowers over the last year, Planet S readers’ favourite place to go was Bill’s House of Flowers. In a category that always features some close competition, Nosegay finished right behind in second, followed closely by Blossoms.

BEST POOL HALL
SNOOKER SHACK
It’s a successful eight-ball into the corner pocket once again for the Snooker Shack, which takes top spot in the Best Pool Hall category for another year. Pacific Billiards, another mainstay in the top three, takes second spot, while Modern Billiards is also judged by our voters as a great place to chalk a cue and let ‘er rip!

BEST CATERER
D’REEN’S
No time to cook? Planning the perfect party? Dial up D’reen’s, which cooks up a win as Best Caterer for another year! Voters in this category note you also can’t go wrong by calling Pick Nic’s, which places second, or Choices on Campus, who nabs third, just ahead of Jake’s on 21st.

BEST TRAVEL AGENT
TRAVEL CUTS
Shockingly, -30 C temperatures just don’t thrill everybody, meaning that some folks in the city actually like to get outta here in the winter — and Travel Cuts is once again Saskatoon’s top choice for a gateway to more hospitable parts of the world. Co-op flies from third spot into second spot this year, while CAA motors into third.

BEST DRYCLEANERS
CUSTOM CLEANERS
The good folks at Custom clean up at top spot for another year in this category, while the blemish-free performance of Family Drycleaners nabs them second spot and Executive Cleaners earns a sparkling-white nod for third.

BEST REALTOR (INDIVIDUAL)
TONY BULA
When it comes to news in Saskatoon, these days it seems it’s all housing, all the time — and whether you’re in the catbird seat while selling one or desperately trying to find one to buy, Planet S readers say Tony Bula is the top real estate whiz for you to call. Super sellers Slade Durochers in second and Mark Wouters in third are also great bets to guide you through the frenzied market.

BEST REALTOR (COMPANY)
RE/MAX
Re/Max rides the waves of the housing boom ever higher, like a balloon on the wind, floating to familiar territory as the city’s Best Realtor (Company). Migratory Planet S readers also appreciate the work done by Realty Executives, and Century 21.

BEST AUTO REPAIR SHOP
AVALON AUTO SERVICEE
When that “crunching walnuts” sound gets too loud to ignore (well, hopefully before that!), Avalon Auto is king in the Best Auto Repair Shop category. Quality service for the freshly-dinged can also be found at Shirley’s Auto and Glennwood Auto.

FOOD & DRINK

BEST BUSINESS LUNCH
2ND AVE. GRILL
When it comes to mixing business and pleasure, Saskatonians say that the 2nd Ave. Grill can’t be beat, as they take this category for another year. Other places to take care of business while enjoying a pleasurable lunch munch include John’s Prime Rib and the ever-popular Earl’s.

BEST BREAKFAST RESTAURANT
GRAINFIELD’S
Grainfield’s rose just a bit earlier in the morning than the competition this year, scooping the top Best Breakfast spot from previous two-time winner, the Broadway Café, which nonetheless finished an extremely close second. The Park Café comes just behind in third, in a close race overall.

BEST VEGETARIAN FRIENDLY
THE UPSTAIRS
Planet S’s herbivorous readers once again picked the Upstairs for the unbelievably vegetarian and vegan-friendly menu they’ve offered ever since opening. The city’s veggie lovers are also appreciative of the wide variety of choices they can find on the menus at Truffles and Caffé Sola.

BEST ALL YOU CAN EAT
ASIA BUFFET (INC.)
Our hungry readers got all they could eat and then some at Asia Buffet (Inc.), which switches places with last year’s winners at Great Buffet of China to take the top spot. Standing once again in third spot in this category is Bonanza.

BEST BRUNCH
BOTANICA
There are lots of new faces in this category for 2008. The Botanica takes the top spot as the perfect place to head when you’re looking for a “not quite breakfast, not quite lunch” mid-day meal. Other good spots to check out for beautiful brunch are the Park Café and Calories.

BEST LUNCH UNDER $10
JAKE’S ON 21ST
There’s a major shake-up in this category this year, with an all-new top three. Jake’s on 21st is Saskatoon’s favourite spot for an affordable and tasty lunch, a fine return for a downtown institution that’s been no stranger to our “Best Of” list in past years. Park Café’s burger expertise launches them into second, while the always-popular Yard and Flagon winds up third.

BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT
FUDDRUCKERS
Fuddruckers maintains its status as the top spot to bring the wee ones for another year. Readers toting the tots out for a meal that everyone can enjoy also like to take the family to Montana’s and Boston Pizza.

BEST NEW RESTAURANT
LA BAMBA
La Bamba is la bomba in the New Restaurants category, as they shimmy and shake to our culinary “rookie of the year” award. Right behind in a very close race is Simon’s British Flavours, who’ve done a fine job of shattering stereotypes about British cooking, while Avocado also adds to the strong showing for new options for Latin food.

BEST RESTAURANT OVERALL
EARL’S
Saskatoon has once more put Earl’s on top in this, the King of our culinary categories. Amigos’ triple threat of laid-back atmosphere, live tunes and fantastic food vault them into second place for 2008, while Broadway institution Calories remains a strong bet by holding down third.

BEST PLACE FOR AN AFTER-WORK DRINK
YARD AND FLAGON
Broadway’s Yard and Flagon is on top again for 2008, retaining their title as the perfect spot to tie one (or perhaps even a few...) on after a hard day’s work. Earl’s mixes their way into the runner-up spot for another year, while the ever-increasing reputation of O’Shea’s as a downtown delight puts them in third.

BEST BREW PUB
MAGUIRE’S
Maguire’s once again dominates the field, with its astonishing sixth consecutive first-place finish for best brew pub. Coming in at second, Winston’s has managed to actually transcend the category — indicating that the city’s love for their astonishing variety of beers trumps the fact that they don’t brew any of their own. In third, Fox and Hounds proudly finishes in the top three once more.

BEST LOCALLY BREWED BEER
PADDOCK WOOD BREWING
The pride of Saskatchewan stays on top with its unique range of beers, proving that microbrewery can most definitely mean major taste. The rest of the top three is also a repeat of last year, with Saskatoon’s award-winning Great Western Brewery coming in a close second, and Maguire’s Brew Pub also impressing the ale aficionados among us.

BEST SPORTS BAR
JOE’S SPORT BAR
When it’s time for sporting Saskatonians to drown the failures or toast the successes of their team, they love to do it at Joe’s, which has now achieved an impressive three-peat in this category. Voters in this category also rooted for Sports on Tap, and the Shark Club.

BEST NIGHT CLUB
DIVA’S
For the second consecutive year Saskatonians say the fun never stops at the city’s nightclub for gay people and their friends, Diva’s. Former champ Beily’s stays strong at second, while the Hose and Hydrant bumps and grinds into third, just ahead of Amigos.

BEST PATIO/DECK
YARD AND FLAGON
“Best Of” time just so happens to coincide with patio time, and Saskatonians are most excited about hitting the The Yard and Flagon’s rooftop patio. Earl’s classy patio and O’Shea’s big and beautiful rooftop deck also continue to impress readers.

COFFEE SHOP
BROADWAY ROASTERY
Locally owned and operated and with three locations to satisfy your craving for a cup o’ joe, the Broadway Roastery tops the list yet again. Caffé Sola brewed up a super second place finish, just ahead of the monolithic coffee giant that is Tim Horton’s.

DESSERT SPOT
CALORIES
Saskatoon’s favourite spot for fine French cuisine is also the place to go when you’re in the mood for something sweet. Delectable desserts can also be found at Alexander’s, and at Prairie Ink in McNally Robinson.

BEST ICE CREAM
HOMESTEAD ICE CREAM
Saskatoon has sprinkled praise once again onto Homestead Ice Cream, who wowed Saskatoon with the quality and variety of their product. Jerry’s also stays right at the top of the ice cream category for another year, while Saskatoon’s cone-heads also love to head down to Dairy Queen.

BEST BAKERY
CHRISTIE’S MAYFAIR BAKERY
Christie’s bakes up a fresh batch of victory in the Best Bakery category, taking top spot in this category for yet another year. Other choice spots for quality confections are the famous Nutana Bakery and Nestor’s.

BEST BUTCHER
BULK CHEESE WAREHOUSE
Barbecue season is here again, and readers have chosen Broadway’s Bulk Cheese Warehouse as their top provider of quality service in the butcher category. Prairie Meats and Boryski’s are also choice cuts for Saskatoon’s cooking carnivores.

BEST MARTINI
EARL’S
Simply put, Saskatonians say Earl’s when it comes to a quality martini, as they once again take top spot as the city’s proudest purveyors of Bond’s favourite beverage. Variety is the key here, with an array of martinis available and a daily martini special. Shaking it up at second and third place are the fast-becoming-a-downtown-institution folks at Flint, and the long-popular 2nd Ave. Grill.

BEST NACHOS
AMIGOS
They’re huge, topped with cheese, beef or chicken — and served with a side of pure victory! What more can you say about the dynastic reign of Amigos’ nachos, which nibble up to top spot here for yet another year? Voters also love to do Homer Simpson’s “Nacho-Man” dance at Alexander’s and Fox & Hounds, who pile it on to take second and third, respectively.

BEST WINGS
YARD & FLAGON
The ever-popular fried flappers available at the Yard & Flagon fly into first place in this year’s Best Wings category. Voters were also appreciative of the way Bridges spices it up on the west side with some excellent wings, while the fiery fliers at Earl’s continue to impress voters out for an eye-watering good time.

BEST SOUP
CALORIES
Readers say heading down to Broadway and into Calories is still your best bet for a tres bien bowl of soup, as they spoon their way to the top of this category for another year. Also serving up a hot, tasty broth of quality with savoury chunks of class and distinction are Tastebuds and Strongfields.

BEST SALAD
EARL’S
Another accolade for Earl’s, as Saskatoon’s downtown hotspot rises to the top as the Best Salad specialists for 2008. Last year’s winners at McNally Robinson’s Prairie Ink remain a strong favourite amongst lettuce lovers by taking second place, while quality veggies can also be found at Calories.

BEST SANDWICH, ETC.
PITA PIT
It’s a wrap for Pita Pit, who puts the ‘etc.’ in this category, by returning to form and retaking the top spot. Subway’s subs glide into second spot and the ever-popular Bad Ass Jack’s stays on the list at third.

BEST PIZZA
VERN’S
They might tell you to have their pizzas delivered upside down, but there’s no flip-flopping at the top of this category, as Vern’s copious toppings ensure their dominance of the pizza category remains unquestioned for another year. Panago’s pies heat up second place, and Family Pizza’s are right behind.

BEST BURGER
FUDDRUCKERS
Saskatoon readers love to top their burgers, and have made Fuddruckers top the list for Best Burger for yet another year. Park Café vaults onto Saskatoon’s burger stage at second, while Jerry’s Food Emporium holds strong at third.

BEST STEAK
THE KEG
The steak-masters at The Keg pull out their perfect potion of spice and grill up another victory for 2008, with John’s Prime Rib and Carver’s sizzling their way to the top three this year as well.

BEST SEAFOOD
RED LOBSTER
Red Lobster remains the top choice for food from the briny depths. The deep-fried seafood at Joey’s Only swims into second place for 2008, trading places with an expanded but ever-popular Gibson’s Fish and Chips.

BEST SUSHI
SUSHIRO
The top three looks much the same as it has for the past few years — and if you stop in for a tasty morsel or two at any of these places, you’ll see why. Sushiro’s fresh Asian creations once again sit in first place. Sushiro is in good company, as they’re followed by Otowa and the sushi bar at the Samurai.

BEST FRENCH
CALORIES
Calories tackles French cuisine with an eye for using the best ingredients that our province offers, and yet another win in this category shows without a doubt that Saskatoon appreciates the effort! French dining is also magnifique at Truffles and the St. Tropez Bistro, say our voters.

BEST ITALIAN
TAVERNA
Primo pasta keeps Saskatonians coming back to the Taverna, and once again it’s returned them to the top of the Best Italian category. Chianti and East Side Mario’s also keep our Italian-addicted readers happy.

BESTGREEK
KOUTOUKI
Opa! New sensation Koutouki overtakes perennial favourite Mykonos as the greatest spot for Greek dining in this category, taking their first-ever win. Mykonos remains marvellous by finishing in a strong second place, however, while Mano’s also satisfies Saskatoon’s craving for Greek cuisine.

BEST CHINESE
MANDARIN RESTAURANT
Known for their spectacular dim sum, the Mandarin remains the top option for diners after an authentic Chinese feast. The Szechuan Kitchen once again sits in the second spot this year and Genesis earns a spot in this year’s top three as well.

BEST JAPANESE
SAMURAI
Saskatonians have long been dazzled by the Teppanyaki stylings of the Samurai’s spectacular chefs, and it shows in this year’s Best Japanese category. 2008 marks a return to the top spot for Samurai, as they edge out last year’s champ, Otowa, in a tight race that also saw Yohei finish third.

BEST THAI
KEO’S KITCHEN
Saskatonians have not at all gotten tired of getting their Thai fix at Keo’s, again voting them into Thai food supremacy for another year. Keo’s win narrowly prevents a southeast Asian sweep for best Vietnamese restaurant winner Red Pepper, who finish second, just ahead of Nha Trang in third.

BEST VIETNAMESE
RED PEPPER
I guess we let the secret slip in the category just above, but let’s offer up another cheer, as Red Pepper vaults from third place in 2007 to take the top prize for Best Vietnamese in 2008. Previous winner Saigon Rose is still a great place to have some spring rolls at second, while Saskatoon Asian Restaurant steams solidly into third.

BEST INDIAN
TAJ MAHAL
Taj Mahal continues its reign as the top place for Saskatonians to dine on spicy Indian delights, as they take another win for Best Indian cuisine. Great Indian cuisine can also be found at India Palace and Asian Taste, say our spice-loving readers.

BEST UNIQUE EATING EXPERIENCE
SAMURAI JAPANESE RESTAURANT
Situated right at the heart of Saskatoon — both literally and figuratively — Samurai Japanese restaurant once again brings home the honour of best unique eating experience in Saskatoon. Other places for a special dining experience are Koutouki and their celebration of Greek culture, and the intimate, artistic and entirely veg-friendly atmosphere of The Upstairs.