Proudly hanging on walls of businesses throughout Beaufort County, plaques bearing the words “Readers’ Choice” are a sure sign of a well-respected business.  Nominated by customers and community members, the businesses nominated and selected to receive Washington Daily News Readers’ Choice awards are the best of the best that Beaufort County has to offer.

Through Aug. 24, readers of the Washington Daily News have the opportunity to make their voices heard in the 2018 Readers’ Choice contest. With categories ranging for the top local restaurants to the most beloved teacher, the awards are a chance to recognize the most outstanding people, places and businesses in the area.

With the contest beginning in 2016, WDN Advertising Director David Singleton says that Reader’s Choice has seen increases in voter participation each year, with businesses recognizing the importance to their customers.

“What we’ve learned is that community businesses put a lot of hard work and endless hours into their dreams; more so than many of us realize,” Singleton said. “To that end, a contest like Reader’s Choice gives the local businesses an opportunity to see how they rate with local customers, and that’s the lifeblood of all local businesses.”

With nominations collected and set, readers are invited to share their picks for Beaufort County’s best of the best. To cast a your vote, visit www.thewashingtondailynews.com and click the “vote now” icon at the top of the page. Limit one entry per person. Winners will be notified after voting ends on Aug. 24, with a reception for the top vote getters taking place on Sept. 13.  The winners of this year’s contest will be featured in a special section of the Washington Daily News on Sept. 29.