Just like I did this morning, I encourage you to cast your ballot for Madison's Favorites! You have until 5 p.m. Yes, that is central time. There are over 120 categories to vote on, but you only have to vote for 20 for your ballot to count.
The only emphatic endorsement I will make is for favorite local radio show. That prize must got to "It Occurs to me..." a student-run philosophy banter session that is good for a laugh and a head-scratch at 1 a.m. on Saturday on WSUM (91.7 on your dial). The emcee, Alex Cramer, is often accompanied by quality guests, such as former chair of the UW distinguished lecture series Reid Tice or fellow Isthmusite and film blogger Dan Sullivan.
They have the least desirable time slot possible, so deliver them so votes and shock the Madison radio world. More importantly, give them a listen and call up. If you don't feel strongly about radio just vote for them.
I also will make some other endorsements:
Best Happy Hour: Paradise Lounge. It used to be the Orpheum when they offered free food (cheese, crackers, mussels) but I don't think they do anymore.
Best Sports Bar: Buckingham's. Hopefully my review of the place and its history will convince you.
Best Bar when you're down to your last dollar: Paradise Lounge. They pretty much always have $5 pitchers of PBR.
Best place to play pool: During the day the Great Dane is tough to beat. It only costs $4 to reserve a table for an hour. And they're pro-sized tables. I hear the Brass Nickel also has good deals.
Blogger I'd most like to meet: Probably this guy.
