Last week, we awaited the 2024 Presidential Election’s outcome. Even now, some 127,000 ballots in Santa Clara County have yet to be processed. Democracy can be slow and messy, but as Winston Churchill quipped, it’s “the worst form of government, except for all the others.”
We believe in the people’s voice at Metro Silicon Valley, which is why each year we encourage as many readers as possible to cast ballots for their favorite businesses, organizations, places and faces. Then we tally the votes, tossing out only those cast in jest or in error—both of which do happen. (“My mom’s house” is not a viable choice for Best Breakfast. And the beloved JJ’s Blues is simply no longer in business, roots music fans.)
Longevity does play a role in winning, without a doubt—and it’s also an indicator of continuing quality and popularity. But newcomers can also come along and make a splash. Because we all recognize when businesses go above and beyond, providing exceptional service, high quality of goods and those touches of creativity that encourage people to come back for more.
Unlike in the national contest, votes are gifted out of love, not fear for what the other guy might do. Even better, runners-up often deserve the love as much as the winners. Every name on the list, from gold to bronze, represents a shining light that makes the Santa Clara Valley a better place to live.
This week, we release the winners in five different categories: Arts & Entertainment, Family & Pets, Health & Fitness, Services and Shopping. Watch this space next week to find out the winners in the perennially popular Food & Drink and Cannabis categories.
Links to the Winners: Arts & Entertainment | Family & Pets | Health & Fitness | Services | Shopping | Editorial Picks
