Which is your favorite crab shack? Or gift shop? Or local landmark? Maybe there’s a local volunteer or business professional who deserves recognition for their work in the community.

Nominations are open now for the 2025 “Stars of the Banner,” the official Dorchester Banner Readers’ Poll. There are over 100 categories—from favorite fried chicken and frozen treats to festivals, law firms and florists—plus Hometown Heroes who make the community better place.

The Stars of Dorchester has three parts: a nomination phase, a voting phase and then the announcement of the winners in a keepsake booklet, published in Banner and online. This spring, there will also be a public celebration for the community and winners. It’s a big honor to win.

Nominations are open now. Readers can nominate their favorites businesses and services with the easy-to-use ballot. Use https://dorchesterbanner.secondstreetapp.com/Stars-of-the-Banner-2025 for online submissions.

There is no limit on the number of times that one individual can fill out the nomination form. Plus, businesses and organizations can be nominated in multiple categories. For Hometown Heroes, specifically, please include text about how that person or group has made an impact—this makes it easier for selecting the honorees! Nominations are open from NOW until Friday, Feb. 28.

(Then, the voting phase starts in March, with only the top finalists appearing on the ballot. Once again, readers can vote repeatedly for their favorite businesses listed on the voting ballot. That voting phase will be March 10-28.)

To see the ballot and nominate your favorites, visit the Stars website (listed above). Any businesses interested in learning more about the marketing opportunities offered by this event can contact marketing consultant Nancy Curley at (410) 708-8480 or ncurley@iniusa.org.