Business of the Year

Jon and Jerri Jo Payne of the Leaburg Store received the most votes in this year's balloting. One gave them praise for "having been very successful at converting the sleepy little stop in Leaburg into a thriving store."

Others said they appreciated things like an ever expanding selection of food including fresh breads, fruits and vegetables, while also featuring "quick to go meals." There were plenty of mentions about things to eat - including fresh sourdough and whole wheat breads, locally sources salsas hummus, and chips, besides featuring the baked goods from the Soft Peaks Cakery.

"They have also embraced the spirit of community involvement by allotting space in the store for the collection and sorting of the bottles and cans for the Bottle Boys Project," said another supporter.

Also on the plus side was the Leaburg store's offerings of Pacific Northwest brews displayed on 4 shelves that allow people to try one or more without buying a whole six pack.

Others pointed to "all the improvements, very clean restrooms, low gas prices, and being open of holidays."

Another summation was Best store in the area! Love the window decals (or are they painted?)"

Totaling up the next highest number of votes to win Second Place was the Horse Creek Lodge and Outfitters in McKenzie Bridge. Also nominated were: Valor Family Farm, Everyone's Market, Vida Cafe, McKenzie Feed, Tokatee Golf Club, Blue Sky Market, McKenzie PUB, Harbick Logging, Indigo Cafe, Sulutaaq Inc., McKenzie Long Term Recovery Group, Dale Turner Construction, McKenzie Fire & Rescue, and the Vida Post Office.