News Release from Arlington Economic Development -

The votes are in, with more than 3,000 Arlingtonians choosing their favorite local businesses and venues in the 2008 People’s Choice Arlington Best Business “ABBIE” Awards. Among the big winners: Whitlow’s on Wilson Bar & Grill, which won in the categories of Best Neighborhood Bar, Best Happy Hour and Best Family Friendly Restaurant. Saffron Dance was named both Best Place to Work Out and Best New Business. The winners in the 20 different ABBIE categories were announced by County Board Chairman, J. Walter Tejada at the October 22 Board meeting.

The complete list of award winners is available on the ABBIES Web site.

The 2008 ABBIES are the result of a new selection process that emphasized public participation. In previous years, the awards were presented by the Arlington Chamber of Commerce and the Arlington Economic Development Commission after nominations were submitted under specific criteria and winners were chosen by a committee. This year, nominations and voting were opened to the entire community, allowing for greater recognition of a wider variety of businesses.

“An awards program is just one of the many ways we support the Arlington business community, especially the small retail stores and restaurants that help shape the character of Arlington’s urban villages,” Tejada said. “The People’s Choice ABBIES help us recognize the very best of all Arlington businesses, with participation from the entire community.”

All nomination submissions and voting for the new People’s Choice ABBIES took place online. Those without access to a computer at home or work were encouraged to use Arlington Public Library Internet stations.

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