The Republic-Times newspaper, covering Monroe County and surrounding areas for 125 years, is pleased to announce voting has began Friday for its “Best of 2014” contest, with nominees selected in more than 20 categories ranging from “Best Tavern” to “Best Bakery.” Voting continues through the end of the month.

Last year, there were nearly 13,000 votes cast online for nominees in several categories for the inaugural contest. The most popular categories last year were “Best Floral and Gift Shop,”Best City” and “Best Assisted Living or Nursing Home.”

The big winners last year included JV’s Downtown Bar & Grill (Best BBQ, Best Tavern) and Walsh’s Inn (Best Fried Chicken).

In addition to many of the same categories as last year, new categories have been included in our “Best of 2014” contest.

To view the contest and cast your vote, click here.