|
Choosing the "best" is a fragile and subjective process, and it's important to remember that subjectivity in assessing our annual list. These institutions, people, and businesses are by no means the only great examples of their kind in Western New York; they are what our panelists and readers chose (in many cases, by slim margins) as outstanding in 2008–09.
Our process:
A readers' poll is combined with the discussions and choices of three panels of Spree writers and outside experts. Through this process, we can make sure that deserving underdogs get their day in the sun. (And we don't have to worry about ballot stuffing.) We hope you'll be inspired to see for yourself if our choices are worthy—enjoy!
"Best Of" panelists and writers:
Arts / WNY Life
Bruce Adams, Bruce Eaton, Jana Eisenberg,
Ron Ehmke, Cynnie Gaasch, Elizabeth Licata,
Darwin McPherson, Gerald Mead,
Barry A. Muskat, Christopher Schobert,
Joe Sweeney, Susan Tanner
Retail/Services / Sport/Outdoors
Michelle Blackley, Catherine Berlin,
Jane Mogavero, Elizabeth Licata,
Nancy J. Parisi, Christopher Schobert
Food
Alan Bedenko, Jade Chen, Mark Criden,
Rick Criden, Jessica Keltz, Vicki G. Marshall,
Margaret M. Toohey, Jennifer Wutz-Lopes
The overall design of this section is adapted from this month's cover design by Rob Lynch and Jonathan Hughes.
Photos in this section include images by kc kratt, Jim Bush, Spree staff, promotional images from the magazine archives, and photos courtesy of the winning individuals and organizations.
|
