Joe Sweeney, Editor-In-Chief & Publisher
jsweeney@ingramsonline.com
Aside from the obvious fun we had this year with the CowParade, what was unique about this year's "Best Of" competition was tallying the endless "Best Of" ballots to conclude that 29 organizations have earned our Gold Award for the third consecutive year. While not surprising to some that these organizations might earn top honors, the odds of them retaining this crown three years running is quite astounding.
The organizations to the left not only have earned our readers' respect, but 93 of our Gold Awards since 1999. To feel the effect of how some of the restaurants have done over recent years with Ingram's awards, simply walk into the lobby of, say, a Plaza III or a Grand Street Cafe, and right away you'll realize the level of respect these culinary masters claim from KC's most discerning readers.
In our business, one tends to become a student of regional business trends and a statistician. And while the "Best of Business" competition tends to be on the editorial lighter side, make no mistake, these organizations take this competition, our awards and their business very seriously—just ask their colleagues. It's hard to disagree that these organizations have earned their respective places in KC's business landscape. As the spokesman for Ingram's and our 100,000 influential readers, we would like to extend our sincere congratulations! You and your associates have made claim to—as far as we're concerned—highest customer-satisfaction ranking in the region.
You'll notice some interesting images in the "Best Of" feature. Staged are several of the people who share the honor of winning our "Best of Business Triple Crown." And while the personalities we convened and the businesses they represent are wildly diverse, the common thread among them is their profusely dedicated commitment to customer service and the ability to develop their organizations with good people.
In recent years, we've noticed several newly launched "Best of Kansas City"-type recognitions in area publications—some ironically similar to our own. And while there's little we can do to control competitor activity, we certainly can express our thanks to Ingram's readers, advertisers and friends, who—like the voters to name this month's winners—hold us in high regard. On behalf of the Ingram's team—thank you for your continued support and encouragement. The Kansas City area is a great community, and we're proud to serve it as a valued friend. It is now our pleasure to share this year's winners and many of the Kansas City area's greatest treasures. Enjoy!