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It's time to nominate your favorite local business in the Alexandria lake area. The nomination period will run through July 25. You can nominate once per day per category. Voting will begin on Sept. 3! Participate and have an opportunity to win $100 in Lakes Area Chamber Bucks! Visit echopress.com to nominate your favorites.

Now here are the top stories to look out for in Friday’s paper:

• The Relay for Life in Douglas County raised nearly a quarter of a million dollars to fight cancer.
• We take a look at the early voting turnout for the Aug. 9 primary.
• In Life, read all about the annual Tour of Gardens.
• In Sports, read how intrigue is growing for the Resorters Golf Tournament.

To read more from these stories and others, look for them in our print edition and online at echopress.com