‘Best Of’ voting begins

Shop local.

Vote local, too.

Voting for the Business Journal of North Idaho’s Best of 2021 competition opened at 1 a.m. Sunday.

At press time on Monday, more than 14,000 unique votes had been cast — and there’s about a week left until voting concludes at 11:55 p.m. on Feb. 14.

Press Advertising Director and Best Of coordinator Kari Packer said this year’s superhero theme illustrates the mettle business owners and employees have demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We’re excited to celebrate our superhero businesses,” she said.

Throughout January, participants nominated their favorite businesses and services in a number of broad categories, including retail, dining, beverages, health and fitness, recreation and entertainment and more.

Several subcategories are new this year: automotive parts store; automotive performance parts and upgrades; and orthopedic care provider.

The top five nominees in each category advanced to the final ballot.

Business finalists have been verified to ensure they provide the services that pertain to their category, that they have a business in North Idaho and that they have a business license.

Winners will be notified during the first week of March. They’ll earn promotional materials and bragging rights.

More than that, Packer noted, Best Of rankings can make a real difference for local businesses, especially when newcomers to the area are deciding where to spend their money.

“Support the businesses you love,” she said.

To vote, visit www.cdapress.com and click “Best Of 2021.”