As in any competition with public voting, there were surprises when the winners were tallied. In several categories, the winner triumphed by a single vote. Then there were the repeat awards. Bruno’s, for example was the winner of Best Steak and Best Hamburger categories 16 years ago and won in the same two categories in 2014, and also won in the Best BBQ category. Min Wah was also a return winner. They garnered both the 1998 and the 2014 Best Oriental Food awards. After 16 years, Corona is still sweeping the Best Beer category, and the mountain village of Mazamitla won again for the Best Nearby Jaunt.
Among the 2014 winners there were a few ties. Most unusual was the competition for Pet Supply Store category which saw a three-way tie for bragging rights.
A condensed list of categories and the 1st-place winners, as well as an expanded list showing 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners is available at www.bestoflakechapala.com. All of these Lakeside merchants and service providers are to be congratulated for climbing through the ranks to the finalist stage.
Winning businesses will receive an award certificate suitable for framing and displaying in the place of business. In addition, award-winners will be authorized to use the Best of the Best, People’s Choice Award emblem in their print and web publicity.
A few people were so anxious to see certain businesses in the winner’s circle that they broke the rules during the mid-December finalist voting. Their actions caused tightening of the voting requirements. A panel of advisors is currently being assembled to review the 2014 survey and identify ways to improve the process for 2015. Suggestions and category or business nominations for the 2015 contest are now being accepted, and may be sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..