Vote in Channel Surfing's Best TV Show of the Decade contest

Wistful for a golden age of television?

Well, you’re looking at it.

In terms of writing, acting and overall production, the quality of the small screen has never been stronger. It’s why the Green Bay Press-Gazette’s Channel Surfing bloggers are raising their remotes in honor of this past decade’s greatest TV achievements.

Forty shows made the cut in our “Best TV Show of the Decade” contest, the well-rounded ballot showcasing everything from pop culture juggernauts like “American Idol” and “The Sopranos” to critically revered darlings of the “Arrested Development” and “Mad Men” vein.

Our criteria was simple: As 2009 winds down, which shows from the past 10 years will forever be etched in the pop culture annals of the decade? Programs that started before 2000 (“Sex and the City” and “South Park,” among them) were eligible, but only considered if the bulk of its creative run fell into this past decade.

Sorry die-hards, but that means “The Simpsons” and “Friends” belong to the ’90s. (though sadly, “Joey” was thrust upon us this decade.)

Also, with so much to think about in terms of not only innovation and artistry, but the lasting cultural imprint of a show like “American Idol,” some deserving candidates were given early cancellation. So, “Battlestar Galactica” and “Family Guy” fans, feel free to stuff the ballot with write-in votes and openly voice your displeasure (just don't use that naughty "Deadwood" language.)

Ultimately, we need your help in narrowing the field for a readers’ list of favorites to run in conjunction with our Channel Surfing lists in early January. So vote for your favorite shows using the print ballot in Saturday's Green Bay Press-Gazette or head online to our entertainment site, Green Bay Hub, so that an ultimate winner can be determined.

There, you'll see our photo gallery with blogger write-ups on the worthiness of each show. You'll also find official rules (sorry, relatives of Channel Surfers are not eligible). Then come back here throughout the month for updates and other fun observations.

The grand prize winner in our random drawing will receive a TV-friendly recliner from La-Z-Boy ($850 value). We also have food gift certificates from Coaches Corner and Rosati’s Pizza in Green Bay as an added TV dinner-inspired bonus.

After all, there’s no good reason to leave the house during a cold Green Bay winter. Not when there’s this much great TV to watch.

-- The Channel Surfing crew