Just as America was built on the fundamental principle of democracy, so too is Leader Publication’s effort to find out who you — our readers — think is the “Best of the Best.”

OK, so it may not be quite as important as the foundation of our great country, but that doesn’t make it any less exciting for area businesses.

Our nation depends on an engaged and informed electorate. That same concept applies to our readers’ choice awards contest that kicks off this Friday.

A long-standing tradition here at the newspaper, the “Best of the Best” is a great way for the newspaper, the business community and citizens to interact and engage in a conversation, so to speak, about who offers great customer service, who has brand recognition and who leads the way in the community.

This special project highlights the top businesses each year, as nominated by readers and local citizens who think carefully about where and how they spend their hard-earned dollars. Individuals vote for their favorite businesses in more than 100 different categories.

But you have to ensure that your voice is heard!

Perhaps the easiest way to vote is to visit our website at leaderpub.com and click on the Contests tab in the top right corner of the home page. This will take you to the electronic ballot.

Those who want to cast their votes the old-fashioned way can simply pick up a copy of the paper ballot section in this weekend’s Leader or in the July 3 edition of Off The Water.

Make sure you give special consideration to the advertisers who helped bring this promotional section to you. This commitment speaks volumes about how much they care about the community.

Don’t wait too long because voting ends July 6. The results will be revealed in a special edition that will publish on July 24 in Off The Water and July 27 in the Leader.

The rules are pretty simple. All ballots must be original. No duplicates will be accepted and only one ballot per person. Ballots must be postmarked or delivered to our office in Niles by July 6.

So show your support for the great businesses here in southwest Michigan and northern Indiana by casting your vote for the “Best of the Best.”

 

Michael Caldwell is the publisher of Leader Publications LLC. He can be reached at (269) 687-7700 or by email at mike.caldwell@leaderpub.com.