The Temple Daily Telegram has concluded its 2025 Reader’s Choice Awards, with a remarkable total of 102,500 votes cast by local residents for their favorite businesses. Over a span of 12 days, voters embraced the opportunity to support local establishments across 104 categories, ranging from the best dining options to top-rated car maintenance services.
Voters submitted their preferences through an engaging process that included a nomination phase, allowing them to highlight local favorites. The results, which can be found in the Reader’s Choice Awards insert in the print edition and online through the E-edition, have generated excitement among business owners.
Armando Gutierrez, the Advertising Director at the Temple Daily Telegram, emphasized the community spirit behind the awards. “It’s voted by the people that actually go to their businesses,” he explained. “They’re local people, so when they win, business owners are super excited about it.” The awards not only serve as recognition but also as a morale booster for the local economy.
Winning a Reader’s Choice Award is considered a significant achievement for many businesses. Recipients receive an 11×17 inch card stock sign that they can prominently display. Some establishments even adjust their menus to showcase their victories, while others choose to display their awards in windows for all to see. As Gutierrez noted, some businesses are perennial favorites, while others celebrate their first win.
“This is my first year doing it,” Gutierrez shared, reflecting on his experience of notifying businesses of their success. “It was really cool to get to break the news for the first time.”
During the voting period, residents were allowed to vote once per day, with Telegram employees verifying each submission manually, ensuring a transparent and fair process. The enthusiasm for the awards indicates strong community involvement, as local businesses rallied their customers to participate.
Gutierrez remarked on the success of the campaign, stating, “We had a really successful Reader’s Choice.” The awards not only highlight the best in local commerce but also foster a sense of pride and connection among the community.
As the winners are celebrated, the Temple Daily Telegram continues to play a pivotal role in promoting local businesses and encouraging community engagement. The Reader’s Choice Awards serve not only as a recognition of excellence but as a testament to the vibrant local economy in Temple.