READERS’ CHOICE 2019

Albuquerque is more than the largest city in New Mexico, it is an unforgettable experience. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, Albuquerque is as vibrant as one of the state’s colorful sunsets. The city is a fluidity of cultures mixed with a splendor of cuisine weaved into hundreds of years of history. To add to the uniqueness, Albuquerque is home to the world-renowned Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, thousands of businesses and an impressive cornucopia of yearly events. Whether you are looking to sample New Mexico cuisine, wanting to explore, looking for the vintage neon glow of Route 66 or view the city from above the city in a hot air balloon or the picturesque view from the Sandia Tram — Albuquerque has it. Thousands of businesses line the streets from Tramway to the east to Paseo del Volcan to the west. Businesses tower over the city at Sandia Peak and border the Bosque offering plenty of opportunities to experience Albuquerque. These businesses contribute significantly

to the economy and the state. “Albuquerque is a city of entrepreneurs — 60 percent of workers are employed at small businesses. From tech startups, to breweries, to flower shops, every one of them is important to the vitality of our city’s economy,” said Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller. “New Mexico is a state of smallbusinesses,” said Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. “These businesses are the backbone of our economy.” “As a leader of the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce, I see the positive impact our local businesses have on Albuquerque’s and New Mexico’s unique economy and culture, especially in our Hispanic and Native American communities,” said Ernie C’de Baca, president and CEO of the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce. Terri Cole, president and CEO of the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce, said, “When Albuquerque’s businesses are growing, our community thrives. The city is fortunate to have so many creative and hard-working entrepreneurs and workers contributing to our quality of life, building a stronger and more diverse economy, and offering unique experiences to residents and visitors alike.” “LGBTQ-owned businesses add $1.7 trillion to the U.S. economy, according to a report by the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce. In addition, according to a 2015 consumer confidence report by Nielsen, LGBTQ households make 10 percent more shopping trips in a year than the average U.S. household. In New Mexico alone it should be noted that the LGBTQ community brings in close to 7 million dollars a year since the passing of marriage equality,” said Pamm Meyers, president of the Albuquerque LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce. Nearly 1,000 Albuquerque businesses were recognized in this year’s Albuquerque Journal Readers’ Choice awards. “These businesses truly love Albuquerque and Albuquerque loves them,” said Albuquerque Journal Senior Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer Cecilia Uebel. “Earlier this year, more than 90,000 votes were taken as part of this year’s Readers’ Choice awards. We are excited to be sharing Journal readers’ favorite go-to spots for everything.” Hundreds attended a banquet honoring this year’s award winners on Aug. 16 at Hotel Albuquerque in Old Town. Uebel said, “As a locally-owned business, the Albuquerque Journal is thrilled to honor our fellow entrepreneurs and Duke City businesses. Your hard work and commitment to excellence and to the city did not go unnoticed. Thank you to each of our readers who voted in this year’s contest — you are the voice of the community and helped us create a reference guide to your favorites in the city.” Keller echoed Lujan Grisham, “Congratulations to all the winners, and I hope every one of us will make decisions to buy local and support small business like these in Albuquerque.” Lujan Grisham said, “I congratulate all the establishments and owners who have been honored for service and quality by more than 90,000 customers. That is the best recognition of all.”