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The Daily News

After vetting over 5,000 nominations, the finalists for the 2025 “Washington Parish Readers’ Choice Contest” are online and ready for voting on www.bogalusadailynews.com. From “Best High School” to “Best Milkshake,” the Best of Washington Parish is the area’s annual celebration of not only our favorite businesses, but of local professionals and those who dedicate their professional lives to making the area the best it can be.
“This is the fun part,” said Advertising Manager David Singleton. “We’ve seen growth in terms of the numbers, but I love the enthusiasm behind it. It’s absolutely wonderful to see our community so engaged.”
The Readers’ Choice Awards isn’t just a marketing contest, adds Singleton, “It’s a great opportunity for our residents to recognize all the great people who do so much for us behind the scenes and also a timely reminder to shop local.”
Voters can make their selections in over 130 categories, and have the ability to vote up to once per day until Aug. 20. Winners will then be contacted directly before making the announcement to the public at the end of September.
And while voting begins online today (July 23), a printed ballot with all the finalists will be published each week during the campaign in The Daily News on pages 8 and 9.
If you’re a local business owner or manager, feel free to contact Marketing Consultant Edward Monroe at edward.monroe@bogalusadailynews.com for a free QR code so your customers can vote while they’re in your place of business, or to share on your social media. 
“It’s all about getting out the vote,” said Singleton. “And in a small way, doing our part to boost civic engagement.”