Salina Community’s Choice Awards
Celebrate the best businesses and organizations in the area with the Salina Community’s Choice Awards! We put the power in your hands, the local community, to nominate and vote for your favorite companies in more than 170 categories. From trendy hotspots to hidden gems, this awards program is your chance to shine a spotlight on the establishments that make the Salina area stand out.
Winners are revealed to the public in a printed winners edition and online. So, rally your friends, family and community, and let’s make this year’s program the best ever!
How it Works
Each year, the Salina Community’s Choice Awards recognizes more than 510 businesses and organizations, and we couldn’t do it without community members like you! The awards program starts with public nominations, and from the top five nominees in each category, the voting round selects the finalists and winners.
Nomination Round
- It all begins with nominations. In this round, the public can submit area businesses and organizations for consideration in each category, up to once a day. Users who nominate their favorites in 25 or more categories will be entered to win a $250 gift card!
Voting Round
- After nominations, the top five in each category move on to the voting round. Here, users vote up to once a day for their favorites among the five to determine winners! Another $250 gift card is up for grabs for those who vote in 25 or more categories.
Winners Announced
- Once voting ends, excitement builds as we prepare to reveal the winners! After contacting the finalists, we announce the businesses and organizations that have earned the most votes in each category to the public! This concludes the program.
The Top Three
Voting has ended and here are the top three finalists in the 2024 Salina Community’s Choice Awards. These companies are among the best in the area but who won? Find out soon when we reveal the winners! Finalists, it’s time to spread the word about your accomplishment. Contact us for advertising packages to reach your audience and spread the word about your achievement.
Beauty & Health
- Accessible Home Care, LLC
- Ahlers Family Dentistry
- All Eyes on You: Lash Loft & Hair Studio
- All Smiles Dental Care
- Amanda Wilson Pinups Hair Salon
- Ahnya Brennan- Sports Clips
- Angels Home Health Care
- Aromatic Massage Christina Kriegh
- Artistic Nails & Spa
- Ashley D. Swisher, DDS- All Smiles Dental Care
- Blondell’s
- Blondell’s Salon and Spa
- Blondell’s Salon Spa & Boutique
- B & K Prescription Shop
- Cedarhurst of Salina
- Central Kansas Mental Health Center
- Chris Miller – Miller Family Chiropractic
- Chiropractic Wellness Center
- COMCARE
- Dental Care of Salina
- Denice Justus, DPT Salina Regional
- DJ – Fineline Barbershop
- Dillons
- Doc’s Barber Shop
- Dr. Cynthia Reed Orthodontics
- Drs. Cooper & Banninger, LLC
- Eaglecrest Retirement Community
- Eyecare Associates of Salina
- FineLine Barbershop
- Gentiva Hospice
- Hairymolairys
- Hearing HealthCare of Salina
- Hospice of Salina
- Interim HealthCare of Salina KS
- Interim Hospice of Salina KS
- Inspire ENT
- Jason Wells, DDS Dental Care of Salina
- Jill Hellmer Ahlers, DMD, LLC
- Katelyn Jeske Kat Jeske the Esti
- Katelyn Tremblay-Mowery Med Spa
- Key Rexall Health Mart Pharmacy
- Larry Doc Saint Clair Doc’s Barber Shop
- Leslie A. Ablard, MD Mowery Women’s Clinic
- Lotus Pschotherapy
- Lundgrin Dental Associates: Orthodontics
- Maria Rapp, DC Chiropractic Wellness Center
- McPherson Hospital
- Melissa Callabresi Shear Bliss Salon
- Merle J. “Boo” Hodges, MD-Salina Women’s Clinic
- Modern Nails
- Morgan Salem, PT, DPT-SRHC
- Mowery Clinic
- Mowery Women’s Clinic
- Nails by Lesley Martinez
- Natalie Davis, MD Salina Women’s Clinic
- Pinnacle Park Healthcare and Rehabilitation
- Pinups Hair Salon
- Professional Hearing Center
- Salina Dental Arts
- Salina Family Healthcare Center
- Salina Family Vision Care
- Salina Ortho
- Salina Pediatric Care
- Salina Regional Health Center
- Salina Regional Orthopedic & Sports Medicine
- Salina Regional Outpatient PT
- Salina Regional Urgent Care
- Salina Surgical Hospital
- Salina Women’s Clinic
- Sara Daleiden – All Eyes On You
- Sculpt Massage
- Shear Bliss Salon
- Southwind Physical Therapy
- Terry Eisenhauer, DC
- Veridian Behavioral Health East
- Wallie Wax Co. + Facial Bar
Dining
- Amore
- Auntie Rita’s Jamaican Cuisine
- Barolo Grille
- Bayards
- Big Cheese Pizza
- Blacksmith
- Blue Skye
- Blue Skye Brewery and Eats
- Bogey’s
- Bravo Sliders
- Bravos
- Braum’s Ice Cream & Dairy Store
- Burger Theory
- Carlos O’Kelly’s
- Carol Lee Donuts
- Chapman’s Take Away Food Truck
- Chick-fil-A
- Daimaru Steakhouse & Sushi Bar
- Dagney’s Ice Cream
- Daylight Donuts
- Dillons
- Five Guys
- Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
- Gambino’s Pizza
- Gourmet To Go
- Great Wall
- Hickory Hut
- Hickory Hut BBQ
- Hog Wild Pit BBQ
- Hong Kong Buffet
- Jalisco
- Jalisco Mexican Restaurant
- Jim’s Country Fried Chicken
- Jim’s Country Style Chicken
- La Casita
- La Curva
- Martinelli’s Little Italy
- Mokas Cafe
- On the Hook Fish and Chips Food Truck
- Pancho’s Mexican Food
- Panchos
- Pho Superman To Go
- Prickly Pear Grill & Cantina
- Russell’s Restaurant
- Sam’s Southern Eatery
- Scheme
- Scooters
- Seraphim Bread
- Spangles
- Spicoli’s Toasted Subs
- T Lo’s
- The Blind Pig
- Tucson’s Steakhouse Saloon & Grill
- Wingstop
- YaYa’s Euro Bistro
Entertainment & Leisure
- 95.5 The Rock
- 99KG #1 For New Country
- Big Booty Trudy’s Speakeasy & Cigar Bar
- Bobby Bones-KSKG
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson
- DJ Cain Humphreys
- DJ Kelly-Cranial Collision
- District Eat and Play
- Geena Kejr & Kansas Beach Hospitality & Events
- Hannah Holt Y93.7 FM
- Hilton Garden Inn
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Salina Downtown
- Hyllningsfest
- J.O. Sundstrom Conference Center
- Lindsborg
- Paramount
- Rolling Hills Zoo
- Salina Downtown
- Sand Springs Venue
- See ‘N Sell Art & Crafts Show
- Shane McClintock 99KG
- Smoky Hill River Festival
- Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts
- Sunset Sinners
- The Alley of Salina
- The Blades
- Tri-Rivers Fair
- Tumbleweed
- Y93.7 KYEZ
Finance
- Advantage Trust Co.
- BeWealth
- Bennington State Bank
- Billings Group
- Billings Tax Service
- Bonnie S. Sanderson Woods & Durham Chartered
- Corlene Lange, KCOE-ISOM
- Credit Union of America
- Elam Tax Services
- First Bank Kansas
- Great Plains Federal Credit Union
- Larry Billings Billings Tax Service
- R & J Salina Tax Service
- Salina Interparochial Credit Union
- The Bank of Tescott
- The Mortgage Company
- Wedel Financial Group
Kids & Education
- Building Blocks
- Della’s Dance Studio
- Ell-Saline Elementary School
- Heartland
- Kansas State University
- Kansas Wesleyan University
- Miller’s Shotokan Karate
- Revolution School of Dance
- Salina Area Technical College
- Salina Ata Black Belt Academy
- Southeast of Saline High School
- StartingPoint Preschool
- Sun Yi’s Academy of Tae Kwon Do
- Tamara Howe School of Dance
- USD 305-Salina Public Schools
Pets
- Atherton Veterinary Clinic
- Barks-N-Bows Professional Dog Grooming
- Darrin Simmons, DVM – Westside Vet
- David Atherton, DVM – Atherton Veterinary Clinic
- Endless Paws Abilities
- Family Animal Care
- Lazy D – Lindsborg
- Les Groom Salon
- Michel Kendell, DVM – Family Animal Care
- Soggy Dog Suites
- Town and Country Animal Hospital
- Westside Veterinary Clinic
Services
- 3J’s Steam Cleaning
- A1 Fence Company
- Alex Driskell Allen & Associates Law
- AT&T
- Aubrey Jane-American Family
- Bill Roberts – State Farm
- Bill’s Roofing
- Bulldog Construction – Blake Stoppel
- Carlson-Geisendorf Funeral Home & Crematory
- Cedarhurst of Salina
- Christians Funeral Home
- City Plumbing and HVAC
- Clark, Mize & Linville, Chartered
- Clean Team Salina
- Chris Keene -EXP
- Cox Communications
- Eaglecrest Retirement Community
- Express Employment
- First Bank Kansas
- Fox Lawn and Landscape
- Freedom Drains
- Hampton & Royce
- Hassman Termite & Pest Control
- Heaven’s Best
- Heritage Real Estate Advisors
- Hinks Heating and Air
- Horizon Farm & Ranch
- Jack’s-Stump-Be-Gone
- JAB IT PC
- Jae’s Electric
- Jeff Wells Agency American Family Insurance
- Jesse Lennon Agency – Shelter Insurance
- Juanelle Garretson Salina Homes
- KanCover Healthcare Staffing Agency
- KANSASWORKS
- Kennedy Berkley
- Landscape Consultants, LLC
- Larry G. Michel Kennedy Berkley
- Lazy D – Lindsborg
- Les Groom Salon
- Lindsay Garber – Farm Bureau
- Maddy Construction
- Merry Maids
- Michel Kendell, DVM – Family Animal Care
- Mike Debold – Independent Construction
- Millwood Realty
- Nex-Tech
- Norton, Wasserman, Jones & Kelly, LLC
- Pestinger Heating & Air Conditioning
- Pinnacle Park Healthcare and Rehabilitation
- Reflections Retirement Resort
- Roger Struble Blackwell & Struble, LLC
- Ryan Mortuary & Crematory
- Ryan Roofing
- Salina Appliance
- Salina Homes
- Salina Presbyterian Manor
- ServiceMaster
- Shull Construction
- SMG Unlimited, LLC
- Spencer Cleaning
- StartingPoint Preschool
- Suburban Appliance Center
- T & A Remodeling
- Terry Smith Plumbing
- The Reserves at Prairie Glen
- Thummel Auction
- Tisha S. Morrical-Hampton & Royce
- Tox-Eol Pest Management
- Town and Country Animal Hospital
- Trejo Repair
- Trevor’s Handiwork
- Verizon
- Waddle’s Heating & Cooling
- Wedel Financial Group
- Westside Veterinary Clinic
- Will Electric
- Wilson Realty and Auction Service
- Wilson Security Solutions
Shopping
- ALDI
- AJ Honey Farms
- Ace Hardware
- Ashley
- Atwoods
- Atwoods Ranch & Home Goods
- Balance Nutrition
- Blue Barn Door Studio
- Blushe Boutique
- Brown’s Shoe Fit Co.
- Callabresi Heating & Cooling
- Casey’s
- Dillons
- Dillons Fuel Center
- Drs. Cooper & Banninger, LLC
- Eyecare Associates of Salina
- Feldkamps Furniture
- Furniture Store of Kansas
- Goodwill
- Hobby Lobby
- Innovative Flooring
- Junk in the Trunk
- Kansas Hempire
- Krehbiel’s Specialty Meats
- Kwik Shop
- Lauren Quinn Flower Boutique
- Lowes
- Lowe’s Home Improvement
- Market Shop
- Menards
- Nature’s Gifts
- On the Pot
- Orscheln Farm & Home Supply
- Pestinger Heating & Air Conditioning
- Poppy & Vine
- Poppy and Vine
- Riddle’s Jewelry
- Salina Family Vision Care
- Salina Farmer’s Market
- Shoe Carnival
- Showcase Jewelers
- Sleep Number
- Smoky River Meats
- Stutzmans
- Suburban Appliance Center
- Sunflower Carpet
- TACOL-The Associated Churches of Lindsborg
- The Appliance Center
- The Good Merchant
- The Market Shop
- The Mattress Hub Salina
- Tractor Supply Co.
- Treasure Chest Gun Shop & Indoor Range
- True Betty Boutique
- Vail Family Farm
- Vanderbilt’s
- Vernon Jewelers of Salina
- Vita Villa
- Waters Farmer Market
- Waters Hardware
- West’s Plaza Country Mart
- Wilson Firearms
- Waddle’s Heating & Cooling
Spirits
- Ad Astra
- Big Booty Trudy’s Speakeasy & Cigar Bar
- Blind Pig Sports Lounge
- Blue Skye Brewery and Eats
- Brooks Retail Liquor
- Carlos O’Kelly’s
- Cave Divers South Liquor
- Chuck’s Bar
- Grace Hill Winery
- Hillside Liquor
- La Curva
- Liquid Art Winery And Estate
- Old Chicago Pizza + Taproom
- Prickly Pear Grill & Cantina
- Smoky Hill Vineyards & Winery
- Speakeasy
- The Cellar
- The FARM & The Odd Fellows
- The Library Sports Bar & Grill
Sports & Fitness
- Atwoods Ranch & Home Goods
- DICK’S Sporting Goods
- Dunham’s Sports
- GreatLIFE Golf & Fitness
- Planet Fitness
- Salina Country Club
- Salina Family YMCA
- Salina Municipal Golf Course
Top Employers
- Angela Eilrich First Bank Kansas
- Brian Boyer-Advantage Trust Company
- Crossroads Collision Inc.
- Dan Fox -Fox Lawn And Landscaping
- First Bank Kansas
- Fox Lawn And Landscaping
- Pinnacle Park Nursing and Rehab
Vehicles, Dealers & Services
- Affordable Transportation
- AutoZone Auto Parts
- Bengtson Tire & Service
- Bengstons
- California Phils
- Club Car Wash
- Conklins
- Crossroads Collision Inc.
- Davis Automotive & Towing
- Evan Potter Holm Buick GMC
- Finishing Touches Window Tinting
- Glass Masters
- Holm Automotive
- Holm Automotive Center
- Holm Buick GMC
- Jamie Disney Holm Buick GMC
- John’s Service
- Kawasaki of Salina
- Larry’s Transmission Repair
- Long McArthur
- MC Auto & Diesel
- McCloud Nicholas- MC Auto & Diesel
- Mike Gordine – Gordine Auto Service
- Money Automotive
- Nu Image Audio
- O’Reilly Auto Parts
- Peerless Tires
- Paints Unlimited
- Salina Powersports
- Salina Wrecker Service
- Safelite AutoGlass
- Stujo’s Car Wash
- Vehicular Solutions
- Zrubek’s Transmission Sales
The Categories
There are more than 170 categories in the Salina Community’s Choice Awards! This list has been curated to best represent the Salina area. Nominate or vote in any or all of these categories during their respective period. Have a category suggestion? Complete the form at the bottom of this section.
Beauty & Health
Barber
Barber Shop
Chiropractic Clinic
Chiropractor
Counseling Center
Dental Clinic
Dentist
Esthetician
Eye Care Clinic
Family Practice
Hair Salon
Hair Stylist
Hearing Aid/Hearing Specialist Center
Home Health Care Services
Hospice
Hospital/Medical Center
Massage Therapy
Medical Group
Medical Supply Store
Memory Care
Nail Salon – Manicure/Pedicure
OB/GYN
Orthodontic Clinic
Pediatric Clinic
Pharmacy/Drug Store
Physical Therapist
Physical Therapy Clinic
Spa
Sports Medicine/Orthopedic Center
Urgent Care/Walk-In Clinic
Dining
All-Around Restaurant
Asian Food
Bakery
BBQ
Breakfast
Brunch
Buffet
Burger
Burrito/Taco
Caterer/Catering Company
Chips & Salsa
Curbside/Carry Out/Drive-Thru
Diner
Doughnut Shop
Fast Food
Food Truck
French Fries
Fried Chicken
Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt/Frozen Custard
Italian Food
Local Coffee Shop
Lunch
Mexican Food
New Restaurant
Pizza
Salad/Salad Bar
Steakhouse
Sub/Deli/Sandwich Shop
Wings
Entertainment & Leisure
DJ – Event/Wedding
Event – Local
Event Venue
Family Amusement
Festival/Fair
Hotel
Live Music Artist/Group/Band
Live Music/Concert Venue
Radio Personality/Show
Radio Station – Local
Tourist/Seasonal Attraction – Local
Wedding Venue
Finance
Accountant
Bank
Credit Union
Financial Planning Services
Investment Firm
Mortgage Lending Company
Tax Preparation Services
Kids & Education
College/University
Dance Studio/School
Karate/Martial Arts School
Pre-School
School – Public
Pets
Pet Grooming Company
Pet Kennel/Boarding/Day Care
Veterinarian
Veterinary Clinic
Services
Apartment Complex
Appliance Repair Company
Assisted/Senior Living
Attorney – Criminal Law
Attorney – Family Law
Attorney – Personal Injury
Auction Company
Carpet/Rug Cleaning Company
Cleaning Service Company
Computer/IT/Business Technology Company
Computer/Tablet or Cell Phone Repair
Customer Service
Cyber Security Company
Electrician/Electrical Service Company
Employment/Staffing Agency
Funeral Home/Crematory
Handyman Service Company
Heating/AC Service Company
Home Repair/Remodeling Company
Insurance Agency
Insurance Agent
Internet/Satellite/Cable Provider
Law Firm
Lawn Care/Landscaping Company
Nursing Home
Pest Control Company
Plumbing Company
Real Estate Agent
Real Estate Company
Retirement/55+ Community
Roofing Company
Shopping
Antique/Coins & Collectibles Store
Appliance Store
Arts & Crafts Store
Boutique
CBD Store
Convenience Store
Eyewear Store
Farmers Market
Feed & Seed Supply
Flooring Store
Furniture Store
Garden Center/Nursery
Gift Shop
Grocery Store
Gun Shop
Hardware/Home Improvement Store
Heating/AC Sales Company
Jewelry Store
Mattress Store
Meat Market/Seafood Shop
New Business
Shoe Store
Thrift Store
Women’s Clothing Store
Spirits
Bar
Beer Selection – Restaurant/Bar
Brewpub/Brewery
Liquor Store
Margarita
Sports Bar
Trivia Night
Winery
Sports & Fitness
Fitness Center/Gym
Golf Course
Sporting Goods/Outdoor Store
Top Employers
Boss
Place to Work
Vehicles, Dealers & Services
Auto Body/Collision Center
Auto Dealer Service Department
Auto Glass Repair Company
Auto Parts Store
Auto Repair Shop
Car Salesperson
Car Wash/Detail Shop
Motorcycle Dealer
New Car Dealership
New Truck Dealership
Oil Change Service
Tire Center
Towing Service Company
Transmission Services
Used Car Dealership
Used Truck Dealership
Window Tinting
Auto Mechanic
Suggest a Category
We love your category suggestions! Submit yours using the form below and it will be considered for next year’s awards program. By submitting you agree to our privacy policy. *Indicates required field.
Winners Edition
Winners of the Salina Community’s Choice Awards are revealed to the public in a winners edition. This commemorative, printed section will publish in an upcoming edition of the Salina Journal and will include all of the finalists and winners, along with their details. This guide is an excellent resource to keep on hand throughout the year for discovering the best businesses and organizations in the Salina area. After the winners edition publishes, the winners are published for free online.
Business Resources
The Salina Journal provides a one-of-a-kind platform for businesses and organizations to showcase their brand. By leveraging targeted digital ads, email marketing, DIY templates, and other marketing tools, companies can elevate their visibility during the nomination and voting phases, and beyond. It’s important to note that while these advertising opportunities can help boost a company’s chances, the decision ultimately rests with the public, as winners and finalists are determined through their votes.
Unique opportunities to promote your business or organization.
Leverage our program to gain exposure and attract new customers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I go to nominate a company and what are the guidelines?
You can nominate a company once a day per category when the nomination round is active. To do so, navigate to the appropriate section and category on the ballot and type the complete company name. Once your choice has been input, complete the registration form (on your first visit) with your information and click the "Nominate" button. You can then continue nominating in other categories. There is no "Submit" button. If you nominate in 25 or more categories, you will be eligible to win the sweepstakes. To nominate again on future visits, you can use the “magic link” function that sends you an easy login email to sign back into the ballot.
I do not see a category that fits the company I would like to nominate. Can it be added?
Our categories are curated to best fit the area. However, each year we add and remove categories to drive innovation and rejuvenate the program. Once nominations have begun for that year's program, categories cannot be changed. If you would like us to suggest a category for future programs, please submit it here. When considering categories, we take several factors into account including popularity, community participation and the number of eligible companies in the area in that category.
My company made the top five in the nomination round. What happens next?
Congratulations on your company making the top five! This means you were in the top five by nominations in your category of all companies submitted during the nomination round. Your company moves on to voting where the winners are selected. Improve your chances by encouraging your fans to vote for you and contact us through the Business Resources section of this website to see how our advertising packages can help!
How do I vote in the program and can I "write in" a company during this round?
The nominees in the voting round consist of the top five companies from the nomination round. New companies cannot be added at this stage. To vote for a company, go to its category on the ballot and select “Vote” near its name. You can vote once a day per category when the voting round is active. After selecting the nominee, complete the registration form (on your first visit) and click the "Vote" button. You can then continue voting in other categories. If you input a company, your vote has been recorded. There is no "Submit" button. If you vote in 25 or more categories, you will be eligible to win the sweepstakes. If you participated in nominations, you must re-register, but your information will be carried over. To vote again on future visits, you can use the “magic link” function to sign back in.
My company made the top three in the voting round. What happens next?
Congratulations on your company making the top three! This means you were in the top three by votes in your category of all companies submitted during the voting round. You may even have won! Stay tuned to the big reveal when winners are announced and contact us through the Business Resources section of this website to see how our advertising packages can help you spread the word about your accomplishment!
My company's basic information is incorrect on the ballot. What can I do and how do I get my company details added to my listing?
We do our best to ensure company information is correct but acknowledge that errors can occur. If you notice any inaccuracies in your company’s basic information, contact us through the Additional Questions form below and let us know what is wrong and we will correct the issue. Maximize your company's visibility with our enhanced listings and advertising packages. Enhanced listings offer a comprehensive display of your company’s information, including your company logo. Additionally, our advertising packages enable you to actively promote your company and encourage the community to nominate or vote for you. contact us through the Business Resources section of this website now to get started!
How are companies alerted that they made the top five after nominations or top three after voting?
We diligently reach out by phone or email to each company to notify them of their top five or top three status, utilizing information collected from their websites, social media, or map listings. You should expect to hear from someone representing your local newspaper, USA TODAY NETWORK, USA TODAY NETWORK Ventures, or Gannett. Be cautious of inbound calls from individuals not affiliated with these companies. You can always verify communications by contacting us through the Additional Questions form below. The top three list is also posted on this website after the ballot has been reviewed. If you haven't heard from us and want to know if your company made it to the top five or top three, please contact us through the Business Resources section of this website so that we can provide you with important program details and information on how our advertising products can help you promote your company!
How many times can I nominate or vote in the program and how do you prevent fraud?
You can nominate or vote in the program during their respective periods once a day per category using one individual email address. Our platform employs CAPTCHA technology to prevent bots and tracks IP addresses to prevent fraudulent voting and ensure accurate results. For more information, see our complete participation rules on our ballot pages.
How can my company increase its chances of being nominated or voted for in the program?
What comes with being named a finalist or winner in the program?
Winning or placing among the top three finalists in the Community's Choice Awards is a prestigious achievement that reflects a company's excellence in its respective industry. The winners and finalists are published online and publicized to the community, serving as a trusted resource for people searching for the best places to eat, shop, receive services and more. Companies can also showcase their accomplishments by using our free winner and finalist logos and purchasing winner plaques, finalist certificates and window clings that proudly display their achievement. Contact us through the Additional Questions form below to learn more about these opportunities.
Does this program require payment in exchange for participation, or is it solely based on the community’s nominations and votes?
Participation in the Community's Choice Awards is completely free of charge! We believe that every eligible company should have the opportunity to be recognized for their outstanding products, services and contributions to the community without any financial barriers. While we do offer advertising opportunities that can help boost a company’s chances, the decision ultimately rests with the public, as winners and finalists are determined through their votes. Company self-promotion with owned marketing channels to solicit nominations and votes are encouraged!
How do I find out the finalists and winners of this year's program?
After the program ends and we contact the finalists, we announce the winners and finalists online. Our online Winners Guide includes company details, making it a trusted resource for those looking for the best places to eat, shop, receive services and more. So, the next time you are searching for a new pizza place, need a reliable plumber, or are shopping for clothing, make sure to check out our guide for some top-notch recommendations!
What happens at the awards gala and where and when will it be held?
The awards gala is a special night where local business leaders and community residents gather to find out the winners of the awards program! It serves as a platform to celebrate the winners' achievements and an excellent opportunity for networking and recognition. The event features a hosted cocktail hour, a complete sit-down dinner with entertainment and the awards presentation. The attire for the event is business/cocktail and parking is available at the venue. Please refer to the Awards Gala section on this page for this year's event date and venue information. Below is the evening's timeline. contact us through the Additional Questions form below for additional event information. Join us for the business event of the year!
- 6:00 p.m. - Doors Open
- 6:00-7:00 p.m. - Cocktail Hour
- 6:45 p.m. - Dinner is Served
- 7:30 p.m. - Awards Program Begins
- 8:30 p.m. - Awards Program Concludes
Who is invited to the awards gala and who can they bring? How can I get tickets or RSVP?
The awards gala is restricted to the top three program finalists only and their invited guests, typically including business partners, employees, family, and supporters. Children may attend, but it is not recommended, as alcohol is served and there is no child-priced ticket or meal option available. Our advertising packages include event tickets at different amounts, depending on the package. If you are interested in tickets to the awards gala only, please contact us through the Business Resources section of this website at least four weeks prior to the event. Ticket holders will receive an RSVP request to the email address provided to us to confirm attendance and select meal preferences for their party. If you do not receive an RSVP email, contact us through the Additional Questions form below. Space is limited, so we recommend getting your tickets as soon as they become available.
Will everyone in our party attending the awards gala be seated together?
We make every effort to seat parties together at our awards gala. Typically, seating is arranged at tables of ten. If your party has fewer than ten guests, we will seat you with other companies. If your party has more than ten guests, we will seat you at nearby tables with other companies to fill the remaining space. If you would like to be seated with a specific company or group of friends, please note it on your RSVP or contact us through the Additional Questions form below.
What is served at the awards gala and how do I provide my meal selections?
The awards gala begins with a champagne welcome and hosted bar. A complete dinner is served prior to the award ceremony, consisting of a salad, entrée, and dessert. Meat and vegan/vegetarian options are available for dinner. If you are attending the awards gala, you will select your meal preferences for your party when you RSVP. If you need more details about the dinner options, please contact us through the Additional Questions form below.
If my company wins our category at the awards gala, will I need to give a speech?
No speech is given if your company wins in your category. Winners will be asked to walk across the stage to accept their award, have their photo taken and confirm their information. Enjoy your time in the spotlight!
When will photos from the awards gala red carpet and event be posted?
Photos from the award gala's red carpet and event will be published on this website within approximately one week of the event. They are available to download at no charge. To download on desktop, right-click on the desired image and select "save image as" to save it to your computer. On mobile or tablet, press and hold the desired image and select "save image." Feel free to share your photos on social media to celebrate your accomplishment!
My company was selected as a finalist or winner. How can I get a plaque or certificate and window cling and when do they arrive?
If you purchased an advertising package, you will receive your window cling and certificate at the awards gala. Your plaque will be shipped after the event and arrive in six to eight weeks. If you did not purchase an advertising package or did not attend the event, please contact us through the Additional Questions form below for information on their status or how to purchase them. Use caution with inbound communications to your business soliciting plaques. Unless they are associated with your local newspaper, USA TODAY NETWORK, USA TODAY NETWORK Ventures, or Gannett, they do not have permission to use the logo and are likely fraudulent. Don't forget, you can also showcase your accomplishment by using our free winner and finalist logos.
When is next year's program and what can my company do until then to improve my chances?
Stay tuned to the How it Works section on this website to find out when next year's awards program will take place. Typically, the program follows a similar timeline each year. In the meantime, we encourage you to motivate your company's employees to deliver outstanding experiences to your customers. When customers are impressed by your service or product, they are more likely to recommend you and keep you in mind during the awards program. Thank you for your participation and support, and good luck next year!
Where do I go to nominate a company and what are the guidelines?
You can nominate a company once a day per category when the nomination round is active. To do so, navigate to the appropriate section and category on the ballot and type the complete company name. Once your choice has been input, complete the registration form (on your first visit) with your information and click the "Nominate" button. You can then continue nominating in other categories. There is no "Submit" button. If you nominate in 25 or more categories, you will be eligible to win the sweepstakes. To nominate again on future visits, you can use the “magic link” function that sends you an easy login email to sign back into the ballot.
I do not see a category that fits the company I would like to nominate. Can it be added?
Our categories are curated to best fit the area. However, each year we add and remove categories to drive innovation and rejuvenate the program. Once nominations have begun for that year's program, categories cannot be changed. If you would like us to suggest a category for future programs, please submit it here. When considering categories, we take several factors into account including popularity, community participation and the number of eligible companies in the area in that category.
My company made the top five in the nomination round. What happens next?
Congratulations on your company making the top five! This means you were in the top five by nominations in your category of all companies submitted during the nomination round. Your company moves on to voting where the winners are selected. Improve your chances by encouraging your fans to vote for you and contact us through the Business Resources section of this website to see how our advertising packages can help!
How do I vote in the program and can I "write in" a company during this round?
The nominees in the voting round consist of the top five companies from the nomination round. New companies cannot be added at this stage. To vote for a company, go to its category on the ballot and select “Vote” near its name. You can vote once a day per category when the voting round is active. After selecting the nominee, complete the registration form (on your first visit) and click the "Vote" button. You can then continue voting in other categories. If you input a company, your vote has been recorded. There is no "Submit" button. If you vote in 25 or more categories, you will be eligible to win the sweepstakes. If you participated in nominations, you must re-register, but your information will be carried over. To vote again on future visits, you can use the “magic link” function to sign back in.
My company made the top three in the voting round. What happens next?
Congratulations on your company making the top three! This means you were in the top three by votes in your category of all companies submitted during the voting round. You may even have won! Stay tuned to the big reveal when winners are announced and contact us through the Business Resources section of this website to see how our advertising packages can help you spread the word about your accomplishment!
My company's basic information is incorrect on the ballot. What can I do and how do I get my company details added to my listing?
We do our best to ensure company information is correct but acknowledge that errors can occur. If you notice any inaccuracies in your company’s basic information, contact us through the Additional Questions form below and let us know what is wrong and we will correct the issue. Maximize your company's visibility with our enhanced listings and advertising packages. Enhanced listings offer a comprehensive display of your company’s information, including your company logo. Additionally, our advertising packages enable you to actively promote your company and encourage the community to nominate or vote for you. contact us through the Business Resources section of this website now to get started!
How are companies alerted that they made the top five after nominations or top three after voting?
We diligently reach out by phone or email to each company to notify them of their top five or top three status, utilizing information collected from their websites, social media, or map listings. You should expect to hear from someone representing your local newspaper, USA TODAY NETWORK, USA TODAY NETWORK Ventures, or Gannett. Be cautious of inbound calls from individuals not affiliated with these companies. You can always verify communications by contacting us through the Additional Questions form below. The top three list is also posted on this website after the ballot has been reviewed. If you haven't heard from us and want to know if your company made it to the top five or top three, please contact us through the Business Resources section of this website so that we can provide you with important program details and information on how our advertising products can help you promote your company!
How many times can I nominate or vote in the program and how do you prevent fraud?
You can nominate or vote in the program during their respective periods once a day per category using one individual email address. Our platform employs CAPTCHA technology to prevent bots and tracks IP addresses to prevent fraudulent voting and ensure accurate results. For more information, see our complete participation rules on our ballot pages.
How can my company increase its chances of being nominated or voted for in the program?
What comes with being named a finalist or winner in the program?
Winning or placing among the top three finalists in the Community's Choice Awards is a prestigious achievement that reflects a company's excellence in its respective industry. The winners and finalists are published online and publicized to the community, serving as a trusted resource for people searching for the best places to eat, shop, receive services and more. Companies can also showcase their accomplishments by using our free winner and finalist logos and purchasing winner plaques, finalist certificates and window clings that proudly display their achievement. Contact us through the Additional Questions form below to learn more about these opportunities.
Does this program require payment in exchange for participation, or is it solely based on the community’s nominations and votes?
Participation in the Community's Choice Awards is completely free of charge! We believe that every eligible company should have the opportunity to be recognized for their outstanding products, services and contributions to the community without any financial barriers. While we do offer advertising opportunities that can help boost a company’s chances, the decision ultimately rests with the public, as winners and finalists are determined through their votes. Company self-promotion with owned marketing channels to solicit nominations and votes are encouraged!
How do I find out the finalists and winners of this year's program?
After the program ends and we contact the finalists, we announce the winners and finalists online. Our online Winners Guide includes company details, making it a trusted resource for those looking for the best places to eat, shop, receive services and more. So, the next time you are searching for a new pizza place, need a reliable plumber, or are shopping for clothing, make sure to check out our guide for some top-notch recommendations!
Is there an awards ceremony or event for the program?
Currently, there is no formal awards ceremony for this program, but we do recognize and celebrate the achievements of participants by announcing the winners online after the completion of the program. As the program continues to grow and attract more participants, we may consider organizing an event to further enhance its prestige!
My company was selected as a finalist or winner. How can I get a plaque or certificate and window cling and when do they arrive?
If you purchased an advertising package, you should receive your window cling, certificate, or plaque within six to eight weeks of the winners being announced. If you did not purchase an advertising package, please contact us through the Additional Questions form below for information on their availability or how to purchase them. Don't forget, you can also showcase your accomplishment by using our free winner and finalist logos.
When is next year's program and what can my company do until then to improve my chances?
Stay tuned to the How it Works section on this website to find out when next year's awards program will take place. Typically, the program follows a similar timeline each year. In the meantime, we encourage you to motivate your company's employees to deliver outstanding experiences to your customers. When customers are impressed by your service or product, they are more likely to recommend you and keep you in mind during the awards program. Thank you for your participation and support, and good luck next year!
Additional Questions?
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2023 Program Results
Here they are, the winners and finalists of the 2023 Salina Community’s Choice Awards. These companies were chosen by the community as the best in your area. We encourage you to support these local businesses and organizations by shopping, dining and using their services for a great experience. Keep an eye out for the program’s window clings, plaques or certificates displayed in their establishments.