Best of the Best

4 BEST OF THE BEST FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2013 • NWA MEDIA PROMOTIONAL SUPPLEMENT best the orthwest Arkansas continues to grow, as does competition among those providing the goods and services that keep this robust region hop- ping. Whether one's business is serving eggs and bacon to the breakfast bunch or perform- ing open-heart surgery, there are rivals around the corner or down the street trying to do it better. A competitive environment is said to be good for all involved, particularly the consumer. That holds true in Northwest Arkansas. As part of an annual summer tradition, NWA Media publica - tions' readers were asked to choose their favorite people, places and things in Northwest Arkansas. Thousands respond- ed through printed ballots and online ballots at NWAOnline. This section is packed with photos and articles about the winning businesses, along with a comprehensive list of winners and final - ists. "Because it brings together readers' opin- ions with a celebration of local businesses, the Best of the Best of Northwest Arkansas is one of our favorite publications," said Crystal Costa, advertising and marketing director for NWA Me - dia. The poll, now in its fifth year, has show a significant increase in reader participation. "I think that Northwest Arkansas consumers want to recognize those busi - nesses that go above and beyond in service and quality," Costa said. "In turn, I see and hear from local business owners who genuinely feel honored and want to show their appreciation for the vote of confidence from their customers." In addition to this print publication, winners were honored Thursday eve - ning at the 2013 Best of the Best Red Carpet Gala at the John Q. Hammons Center in Rogers. Photos from the event, along with videos about winning businesses and a searchable directory of winners, are available online at nwaonline.com. N Fifth-annual poll honors

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