The traditional gift for a 19th anniversary is aquamarine. The modern gift is bronze. Since this is the 19th year for the Reader’s Choice Best of the Big O awards, we feel more than a bit bronze, almost golden. As in the gold of the corn ear that marks this year’s awards as an official part of Nebraska’s 150th Birthday Celebration.
The Reader’s Choice Best of the Big O poll remains the yearly definitive statement of local preferences. It’s evolved since 1996 to stay both modern and fresh.
And now it’s time in 2017 for the final votes.
Past winners thrive
Twenty-one years ago, Reader’s Choice Best of the Big O survey asked locals, “Where to get the best $3 breakfast?” Answer, Brueggers. “Best $5 lunch?” Dixie Quicks (when it was on 15th Street in downtown Omaha). And “Best $25 dinner?” Gorat’s. While it’s unlikely these eateries boast the same prices now, all three still thrive as local favorites.
Credibility is King
In its earliest incarnations, Reader’s Choice asked about the top local media personalities, from news anchor to reporters, weather folks to radio deejays. That ended as we experimented with different media partnerships. The rationale was straightforward. How could we preserve the credibility of media awards when media was a sponsor?
While we certainly knew the answer was obvious, we’ve never had a “Best Alternative Publication,” “Best Weekly,” or since 2015, “Best Monthly.”
Starting in 2004, we were the first to (and to our knowledge, still the only) Best of poll to use an independent accounting firm to tally results.
Designations boost reputations
Some businesses made multiple appearances over two decades. For example, if you ask, “What bar is the best hide-out?” Omaha locals recommended Bud Olson’s Bar four straight years from 2012 through 2015. It’s safe to say Bud’s is a place to disappear for awhile.
Another example is “Best Barbeque,” won by Hartland BBQ seven times. It first won in 2008, and then annually from 2011 through 2016. With that many Reader’s Choice awards, Hartland obviously remains a local barbeque favorite.
Time-honored tradition
Omahans saw tastes and options evolve during the past 19 years. After that long as the voice for local consumers, Reader’s Choice designations mean commercial credibility second to none. Locals know the Reader’s Choice poll means:
- Recommendations come from local consumers who freely vote
- An unbiased accounting firm tabulates their votes for accuracy and truthfulness
- Businesses with Reader’s Choice designations are the best Omaha has to offer
The votes are already pouring in. Be heard as the definitive voice of Reader’s Choice Best of the Big O. Visit the voting website to select your 2017 favorites.
And remember, no buying votes!
