By Olivia Anderson | oanderson@alextimes.com

The Del Ray Business Association announced this year’s nominees for the Heart of Del Ray award and opened up voting to the public this week.

Residents are able to vote for one of five businesses that they think best represents the heart and soul of the Del Ray neighborhood. According to the poll rules, selection should be based on which business “best demonstrates their warm and welcoming attitude to the community/customers, their commitment and generosity to the community, and to their overall contribution to what makes Del Ray the best place in the world to live, work and shop.”

This year’s contenders include Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap, St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub, Stomping Ground, the Dog Store/Your Dog’s Best Friends and Windmill Hill Design Build.

A large, heart-shaped award will be displayed on the winning business tomorrow just in time for Valentine’s Day. Voting closes today at noon.