By KJ Philp, May 2015 Issue.
An Echo tradition since 2006, the Readers’ Choice Awards were developed as a spinoff from the magazine’s Pride of Phoenix Awards that were, once upon a time, presented annually as part of the Phoenix Pride festival.
The Readers’ Choice Awards recognize community favorites in 25 categories – from local leaders and performers to places to wine and dine – all of which are nominated and voted on by you.
During this years nomination period we received more than 10,000 individual nominations totaling more than 700 nominees. Needless to say, the competition is fierce.
Then, with more than 2,500 total votes for our 125 finalists, we’re proud to report that 2015 was one of the most competitive and successful years to date.
Now, it is with great pride and undue respect that we introduce you to the 2015 Echo Readers’ Choice Award winners.
But first – we’ve said it before but bears repeating – thank you to all the nominees, finalists, winner, promoters, readers, voters and even the Susan Lucci’s. We couldn’t do it without you!
Find out more about our 2015 winners by clicking through to their interviews below:
Leader of Political Action & Advocacy: Mayor Greg Stanton
Service by a Straight Ally: Nicole Stanton
Happy Hour: Stacy’s @ Melrose
Men’s Bar: Stacy’s @ Melrose
Women’s Bar: Stacy’s @ Melrose
Dance Bar: Stacy’s @ Melrose
Leader of Spirituality & Worship: Community Church of Hope
Charity Fundraising Event: Dancing with the Bars
Community Event or Festival: Phoenix Pride Festival
Drag King: Freddy Prinze Charming
Drag Pageant: Miss Gay Arizona America
Local Musical Group or Band: Phoenix Metropolitan Men’s Chorus
Brunch Spread: Harley’s Italian Bistro
Coffee Shop: Copper Star Coffee
Fitness Spot: LA Fitness at 7th Ave. & Camelback
Sports Group: Friends with Benefits Kickball League
Theatrical Production: Nearly Naked Theatre