Businesses are part of the heart of our community here in Liberty County. We are fortunate that we have so many business owners who work hard to make the appearance of their businesses as positive as the services and products that they sell.  

Our local business community plays an important role in having a clean, attractive place to live, work and play. Each quarter, we recognize the efforts our local businesses make by having our quarterly Win-dex Awards.  

Since 2007, Keep Liberty Beautiful has partnered with the Liberty County Chamber of Commerce to promote attractive businesses. We like to get local residents involved in the process. Win-dex Awards give you a chance to pick a business you think deserves a pat on the back for looking good! In the last nine years, the Win-dex Awards have recognized more than 70 businesses.

We are accepting nominations for this quarter through Sept. 30, so take a look around at our local businesses throughout our county. Two businesses are selected from nominations each quarter. Awards for this quarter’s winners will be announced at the October Progress through People Luncheon. We provide a yard sign for the winners to display for the next quarter in front of their businesses, and the Chamber provides a commemorative plaque as well as other incentives. Every business should strive to be a Win-dex winner!

The nomination process is easy. Nomination forms are available at the KLB office (call 880-4888 or go to www.keeplibertybeautiful.org) or the Chamber office (368-4445 or libertycounty.org). But the easiest way to nominate is to email us your nomination and the location and the reason you think it deserves an award. Our email address is klcb@coastalnow.net.

Remember that your reasons for nominating a business are a crucial part of the judging of the awards, so make sure that you fully explain why this business is deserving of this recognition. Here are some things to consider:

Is the building clean, and are its sidewalks and frontage clean and litter-free? What about what about the parking area? Is the area landscaped and the grass mowed? Is the entrance inviting? When we are comparing nominations, we also consider whether these businesses are active in local programs that promote a clean community, such as Adopt Liberty and municipal cleanups. That is a plus to us! Businesses that are good stewards for our community definitely receive extra points.

Also, you can feel completely comfortable nominating your own business or employer. Our businesses should be proud that they are attractive. Your vote counts!

Swida is director of Keep Liberty Beautiful.