D.C. may not be on the cutting edge of many things, but when we find something good in this swamp of a city, by god, we’re going to hold onto it and claim it vociferously as our own. That’s why it’s important to show your D.C. pride and cast your votes in the Post’s Annual Reader’s Choice Best Bets contest, which ends tomorrow at noon. Swear that Ozio’s has a better happy hour than The Front Page? Think that the Italian Store’s white pizza bests all competitors? Then make your vote count (free registration required). Some people may say that picking the best D.C. bakery isn’t as important as voting in that little election coming up in November. To them DCist says, “You have obviously never had a double chocolate cupcake from Cakelove.”

And if your favorite local establishment doesn’t win? Well, this is an inside-the-Beltway event. We’re sure you can claim Internet voting fraud.

Oh wait, there is a little bit of fraud to go with the Post’s poll. According to a posting on the D.C. eGullet forum, Hard Times is offering to give its customers $3 off if they vote for the chili restaurant as the best in Cheap Eats, which DCist thinks is a bit dubious.

P.S. Like they say in Chicago, Vote Early & Often!
Great Food. Good People. Cheap Prices
*The small print: This certificate is good for $3 off your
check of a $10 minimum purchase. Tax and gratuity not included.
Dine-in only. Not good with any other offers. Alcoholic beverages
not included. Offer void if certificate altered. No cash value.
One certificate per table. One-time use only. Not transferable.
Not for resale or auction. Please bring ID: name on this email
must match name on ID. Offer expires August 15, 2004. Blah, blah, blah.