By Tyler Allen EBS Senior Editor
If the long, brutal election season left you weary and jaded, Explore Big Sky has a cure: vote for something you can get excited about.
The 2016 Best of Big Sky survey went live Nov. 16 and closes at midnight on Tuesday, Dec. 13. We went entirely paperless this year to save some trees and fossil fuels, and through the first three weeks of this year’s survey already had a record number of responses.
This is your opportunity to recognize the people, businesses and organizations that make this corner of the Greater Yellowstone so special. It’s also a chance for businesses and nonprofits to rally their fan bases, as voters are allowed one vote per email, per day.
According to some on our staff, being a favorite in this world-class resort community can lead to greater glories.
“Winning Best of Big Sky is one step closer to world domination,” said EBS Associate Editor Amanda Eggert.
And speaking of domination, the Lotus Pad is vying for its sixth consecutive win as Big Sky’s Best Restaurant, which would be the last title earned in its cramped Westfork Plaza confines—the Asian eatery is moving in January to a bigger space in the new building at 47 Town Center Ave.
Ophir fourth-grade teacher Jeremy Harder has a chance to repeat in the Best Teacher category, which made its debut in last year’s survey. Harder demurred last year and told us after his win it was thanks to an area-wide network of aid and encouragement.
“Without continued support of staff, administration, parents, community and school board I would be unable to explore the awesome things we do in fourth grade,” Harder said. “To be recognized makes me truly humble and appreciative of the Big Sky community.”
And if you need any further convincing to get out the vote, Best of Big Sky winners will be recognized in two consecutive issues of EBS and earn a plaque to display in their business. Each vote will also be entered in a raffle to win two tickets to the 2017 Big Sky PBR or a $50 gift certificate from a local business.
Take the survey here to make your voice heard.