Capturing a people’s choice award during the Best of Marathon is a transformative moment for any business or individual and for many, just being nominated for one of these prestigious awards provides profound personal and professional benefits — ranging from financial gain and increased social status to better seating options at popular local restaurants.
2023 marks the 14th installment of the Best of Marathon: the Middle Keys’ People’s Choice Awards. Conjured back in 2008, more than 1,000 winners have been named, while well over $130,000 has been raised for local charities like the Marathon Rotary Club. Earlier this week, we asked Marathon Weekly publisher Jason Koler which elements of the Best of Marathon he’s most proud of, and it was an easy answer.
“Obviously when you are able to raise money for any of our local nonprofits, it always gives you a broader sense of community and reminds you of what’s important here at home,” Koler said. “Outside of that, my favorite part of the Best of Marathon has always been the voting process and, of course, the awards party. Last year our interactive voting map showed participation from five continents and over 12 countries. Our annual winners’ gala is one evening that brings together so many different people, from all different walks of life, to laugh with each other and celebrate our community. It’s just one evening where we can put aside our differences and have some fun with our friends. Every dollar raised benefits the Rotary Club, which I believe provides enrichment to the lives of so many people in our community.”
The team at the Marathon Weekly combed the ballot this year to provide a fresh set of categories for 2023, including incorporating some excellent suggestions from our readers. Some speak for themselves, such as Best Fishing Charter (not to be confused with Best Fishing Guide), Best Thespian/Performing Artist, Best Wings and Best Conch Fritter. Others might need a bit more explanation. Best Leisure Charter incorporates businesses throughout Marathon that focus on the relaxing side of boating, with sunset cruises, sandbar trips and the like. Best Alternative Healthcare Provider will recognize a professional outside the realm of standard healthy check-ups, sick visits and treatment. And finally, Best Pet Service will give groomers, boarding services, pet sitters and similar businesses their time to shine.
Time’s up – let’s do this. We can’t wait.
HOW THE VOTING WORKS
Nominate Your Favorites: July 27 – August 13
Log in to Keysweekly.com starting on Thursday, July 27 at noon to nominate your favorites in each category. Voters can vote once per day for all categories, and must fill out 75% of the ballot to cast a valid submission. So visit often, or daily, throughout the nomination process to propose your favorite finalists.
The top three nominees in each category are placed on the finalists’ ballot. Contrary to the annual rumor, we do not create the top three. You, the voters, decide the top three finalists from among your nominees, each and every year. Nominations will end at midnight on Sunday, Aug. 13, so make sure your voice is heard before then!
Vote for the Finalists: Aug. 17 – Sept. 3
The top three nominees in each category make the final ballot. The highest vote-getter among the three finalists in each category receives the Best of Marathon Award.
Voting for the finalists in each category begins at noon on Aug. 17 at keysweekly.com. During this stage, voters can submit one ballot per day and must fill out 75% of the categories to cast a valid ballot. So visit keysweekly.com often throughout the process and submit one ballot a day.
The Awards: Sept. 16
The 14th annual Best of Marathon awards celebration, this year on Saturday, Sept. 16 at the Million Air hangar, has become one of the most popular events in town. Tickets are not generally made available to the public due to demand. Winners, nominees and dignitaries are invited to attend and additional attendees are selected from a first-come, first-served waiting list. To be placed on this list, please email patti@keysweekly.com.
