Vote for Best of the Heights beginning May 3

Citizens can vote for their favorite Heights businesses in FutureHeights’ s annual Best of the Heights awards program. The 2011 survey begins May 3 and runs through August 31.

“There are 22 award categories this year,” said Gina Cheverine, chair of the FutureHeights Best of the Heights Committee. “Some are the same as previous years, such as the Best New Business, but others are new. We’ve also added a bonus question that we hope will give direction to our city planners, developers and entrepreneurs: What business would you like to see in the Heights?”

FutureHeights has modified the voting rules to enable a greater variety of businesses to win, said Cheverine. “In order for a ballot to be counted, we’re asking that participants give us their contact information and fill out at least half of the ballot categories.”

Ballots for Best of the Heights awards are available on the back page of this issue of the Heights Observer, at one of the many Heights independent businesses and at www.futureheights.org.

Since 2005, FutureHeights--a nonprofit dedicated to promoting civic engagement through information, education and advocacy--has conducted this public opinion survey to recognize the unique attributes of locally-owned businesses in Cleveland Heights and University Heights, and their contributions to the local economy.

“The program continues to grow,” said Lloyd Bell, board president, “We invite all Heights business owners to encourage their customers to vote for them. Heights residents recognize how lucky they are to have such an amazing diversity of independent businesses in our community and want to show their appreciation.”

FutureHeights will announce the winners at an awards ceremony in the fall, at a date and time to be determined. The name of one lucky survey respondent will be drawn at random at the awards ceremony, to receive a FutureHeights gift package. Participants need not be present to win.

For more information call FutureHeights at 216-320-1423 or visit www.futureheights.org.