Page 2 Springfield, Illinois THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Sunday, February 26, 2012 CONGRATULATIONS!

Dear Readers, The votes have been tabulated and the results are final. Now the only thing left to do is announce the winners… Welcome to The State Journal-Register's 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers’ Choice gives our community the perfect opportunity to share personal experiences and show support for local people, services and businesses. During December 25 through January 1 we asked our readers to nominate their favorites in 117 different categories and the response was tremendous. Beyond the fun of discovering the top picks for 2011, we also uncovered some new places that have caught on in the last year. Readers told us about their favorite locations for fun, entertainment, shopping and dining, and even provided us with their personal pick on the strangest place in Springfield. We hope that you stop in to visit all of our 2011 Readers’ Choice winners to see for yourself just why they were selected. Take a moment to recognize their efforts and thank them for being part of our local community. As an added value, all qualifying ballots received by our deadline Amy Friesland, Melissa Rhymes, were tabulated and entered into a drawing to win $300 in Gift Cards from Qik-n-EZ in accordance with our published rules. online gas card winner print gas card winner Congratulations to Amy Friesland and Melissa Rhymes as our 2011 Qik-n-EZ winners. Q&A with Amy Friesland Q&A with Melissa Rhymes The winners in all categories reflect the choice of our readers. We encourage you to hold on to this valuable section and use it as a Q: What do you like best about Readers' Choice Awards? Q: What do you like best about Readers' Choice Awards? resource throughout the year. You can also find the Readers’ Choice A: It was fun to do. I am a native to the area and I thought it A: The Opportunity to pick out your favorite places. section online throughout the year at www.sj-r/readerschoice.com. was fun to fill out. Again, congratulations to all of our winners and thanks to all of Q: Do you have any specific plans for the gas money? our readers who took part in making The State Journal-Register’s Q: Do you have any specific plans for the gas money? A: I Drive back and forth to Springfield from Taylorville so it A: Gas prices are high, maybe a summer trip! will come in handy . Sincerely,

Q: Did you make it through every category? Q: Did you make it through every category? A: More than the required minimum but almost got through A: Just about! I filled it out at work, we are rooting for INB! the entire form. Q: Final thoughts? Greg Baumer Q: Final thoughts? A: Favorite workplace and best bank for INB. I just started Regional Advertising Director The State Journal-Register A: It is nice that the SJ-R does something like this. working there and everyone is friendly and works together it is a nice environment.

2011 Readers’ Choice a success.

022220121501 SJ-R Media reaches 80% of adults in Sangamon and Menard counties. Source: The Media Audiot, fall 2011 Sunday, February 26, 2012 THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Springfield, Illinois Page 3

Managers: Mike & Cindy Murphy FOOD Number of Employees: 15 Years of Operation: Business opened in 1991; Best Asian food the Murphys purchased it in January 2009 Location: 700 North Street READERS’ CHOICE: Osaka Japanese Restaurant Charlie Parker's Diner might be hard to find, Category: Best Asian Food but it’s well worth the effort. Located at 700 Business Name: Osaka Japanese Restaurant North Street, just off of Stanford Avenue, the City: Springfield diner is open seven days a week for breakfast Business Phone: 726-8037 and lunch. Hours: 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m.-9:30 This marks the fourth year in a row that p.m. M-Th.; 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m.-mid- Charlie Parker’s has been voted the best place night Fri.; 11 a.m.-midnight Sat.; 11 a.m.-9:30 for breakfast by our readers. Its popular, diverse p.m. Sun. all-day breakfast menu includes breakfast Website: osakaspringfield.com horseshoes with a choice of cheese sauce, gravy Managers: Chin Cheung and Jennifer Chap- or both, not to mention pancakes, waffles, man omelets and breakfast sandwiches. Sunday's Number of Employees: 55 special features a Blueberry Stuffed French Years of Operation: Opened December 2009 Toast Casserole, which has become a diners' fa- Location: 1655 Wabash Ave. Suite A. vorite. The restaurant also features affordable lunch specials Monday through Friday, which SECOND PLACE: Ginger Asian Bistro include homemade dessert, as well as specials THIRD PLACE: Magic Kitchen that rotate throughout the month. Charlie Parker’s Diner was established in Best Burger Best Café Best Barbecue 1991. The current owners, Mike and Cindy READERS’ CHOICE: Steak ‘n Shake READERS’ CHOICE: Café Moxo Murphy, are the fifth owners of the restaurant. SECOND PLACE: Smashburger SECOND PLACE: D&J’s Café READERS’ CHOICE: Smokey Bones Bar & Mike and Cindy purchased Charlie Parker’s THIRD PLACE: Krekel’s Custard THIRD PLACE: Sunrise Cafe Grill Diner January 1, 2009. It has been featured on SECOND PLACE: Hickory River Smokehouse Food Network’s Diners, Drive-ins and Dives and THIRD PLACE: McCormick’s WGN's Sky Dives as well as mentions in several local and national publications, including the Chicago Tribune, Food Network Magazine and Best Breakfast the Wall Street Journal. During the last three READERS’ CHOICE: Charlie Parker’s Diner years it has attracted guests from all over the Category: Best Breakfast United States and 65 foreign countries. STEAK HOUSE • SUSHI BAR • THAI Business Name: Charlie Parker’s Diner Owners Mike and Cindy Murphy invite you to City: Springfield their unique Quonset hut diner to experience some New expanded menu featuring: Business Phone: 241-2104 good old fashioned dining at reasonable prices. • Lobster • Sea Bass • Tuna Hours: 6 a.m.-2 p.m. Mon-Sat, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. • King & Blue Lump Crab Sun. SECOND PLACE: IHOP Over 70 sushi selections to choose from Website: charlieparkersdiner.net THIRD PLACE: D&J’s Cafe time 5 winner Dine In. Carry Out. Delivery Enjoy our Drink Specials Sun - Thur FREE APPETIZER Up to $800 With this Ad Exp: 3/25/12. Dine in only. 722269 1665 Wabash • 726-8037 • www.osakaspringfield.com

722668 Page 4 Springfield, Illinois THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Sunday, February 26, 2012 Best Chili City: Springfield Best Dessert Business Phone: 546-3600 READERS’ CHOICE: Joe Rogers’ Original Hours: 11 a.m.-1 a.m. daily READERS’ CHOICE: Incredibly Delicious Recipe Chili Parlor Website: thecornerpubandgrill.com SECOND PLACE: Baker’s Square SECOND PLACE: Steak & Shake Owners: Tim Timoney, Pat Davlin, Bob Gor- THIRD PLACE: Cold Stone Creamery THIRD PLACE: Wendy’s don, P.J. Giacomini and Pete Giacomini Number of Employees: 45 Best Downtown Best Coffee Years of Operation: 5 1/2 years Location: 3271 W. Iles (the corner of Iles and Dining READERS’ CHOICE: Starbucks Coffee Co. Koke Mill) SECOND PLACE: Grab-A-Java READERS’ CHOICE: Maldaner’s THIRD PLACE: McDonald’s The popular Corner Pub & Grill is a consis- SECOND PLACE: Saputo's tent finalist for the Coldest Beer category, and THIRD PLACE: Augie's Front Burner this is its fourth year in a row atop the Best Bar category - not bad for a place that opened just five and a half years ago. This popular far west Best Festival side neighborhood bar and grill features the READERS’ CHOICE: Blues & BBQ Festival original horseshoe pizza, with a wide variety of Category: Best Festival appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, horse- Name: Old Capitol Blues & BBQ shoes and pizza on the menu, not to mention City: Springfield import and domestic beers and signature Business Phone: 544-1723 cocktails and martinis. Its seasonal outdoor Hours: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. patio, lots of TVs and space to accommodate Best Cupcakes Website: downtownspringfield.org Coldest Beer large parties seals the deal. Number of Employees: 2 full time READERS’ CHOICE: Café Moxo Years of Operation: formed in 1993 READERS’ CHOICE: TheCorner Pub and Grill SECOND PLACE: Brickhouse SECOND PLACE: Incredibly Delicious Location: DSI office located at 3 West Old Category: Best Bar and Coldest Beer THIRD PLACE: Brewhaus THIRD PLACE: Specialty Cakes State Capitol Plaza, Suite 15. Event location: 5th Business Name: The Corner Pub & Grill & Washington, downtown Springfield

YourYour NeighborhoodNeighborhood PubPub && Grill Grill

• Pizza • Sandwiches • Panini • Salads • Burgers • Soups • Chicken • Appetizers Wide Variety of Imports and Domestics 3271 West Iles Ave. (Iles & Koke Mill) 217.546.3600 Open 7 Days a Week DirecTV Dine-In or Carry Out Sports Packages 722262

722283 Sunday, February 26, 2012 THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Springfield, Illinois Page 5

Website: darcyspintonline.com its warm and friendly atmosphere is echoed by Owners: Hallie Pierceall owner Hallie Pierceall’s statement on the Number of Employees: 90 restaurant’s website: “We want people to feel Years of Operation: 13 years comfortable here so they’ll want to stay awhile, Location: 661 W. Stanford Ave. just like a corner pub in Ireland.”

D’Arcy’s Pint is a casual Irish-American pub SECOND PLACE: Dublin Pub with a wide variety of specialty beers, ales and THIRD PLACE: The Corner Pub and Grill imports. Its menu offers many authentic Irish food items like corned beef and cabbage, boxty and shepherd’s pie along with the classic American Best Ice Cream/ pub fare like pizza, burgers, salads and deli Frozen Yogurt sandwiches. But D’Arcy’s is most well known for its large READERS’ CHOICE: Baskin Robbins varieties of the Springfield classic Horseshoe SECOND PLACE: Cold Stone Creamery sandwich. Its consistent top finish for Readers’ THIRD PLACE: Dairy Queen Choice Best Horseshoe is no surprise. In addition to all the usual favorites, D’Arcy’s offers ‘shoes in corned beef, pastrami, Italian sausage and Best Italian Best festival: Old Capitol Blues & BBQ buffalo chicken varieties, as well as specialty READERS’ CHOICE: Saputo’s Restaurant combo flavors like chili cheese dog and a featured Category: Best Italian What could be better than a street festival Best Fish Fry horseshoe of the week, all with traditional or Business Name: Saputo’s Restaurant that combines food and music? The Old Capitol spicy cheese sauce. City: Springfield Blues & BBQ features more than 40 barbecue READERS’ CHOICE: Knights of Columbus Originally established in 1998 in the Town & Business Phone: 544-2523 competitors and vendors, locally and nationally #4175 Country Shopping Center, D’Arcy’s moved to its Hours: 10:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. M-F; 5 p.m.- known blues talent and free children's enter- SECOND PLACE: Carter’s Fish Market own building on Stanford Avenue more than 6 10:30 p.m. Sat.; 5-10 p.m. Sun. tainment. The IL Central Blues Club also holds THIRD PLACE: Firefighters Postal Lake Club years ago. Its outdoor beer garden seats 40, and Website: saputos.com their annual Blues Challenge at the festival, with winners advancing to the national competition in Memphis. Admission is $5 for adults; 12 and Best French Fries under free. The next Old Capitol Blues & BBQ READERS’ CHOICE: McDonald’s will be Aug. 24 and 25, 2012. SECOND PLACE: Steak ‘n Shake THIRD PLACE: The Corner Pub and Grill SECOND PLACE: Festival of Trees THIRD PLACE: Ethnic Festival Best Horseshoe READERS’ CHOICE: D'Arcy's Pint Best Fine Dining Category: Best Horseshoe READERS’ CHOICE: Maldaner's Business Name: D'Arcy's Pint SECOND PLACE: Bella Milano City: Springfield THIRD PLACE: Indigo Business Phone: 492-8800 Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. M-Thur.; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. F-Sat.

722663 722674 Page 6 Springfield, Illinois THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Sunday, February 26, 2012 Owners: Michael and Sandra Coffey 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday. Best New SECOND PLACE: Smashburger Number of Employees: 22 Website: xochimilcorestaurant.com THIRD PLACE: American Harvest Years of Operation: Since 1948 Number of Employees: 14 Restaurant Location: 801 E. Monroe Years of Operation: opened in 2002 Best Pizza Location: 2941 W. Iles Ave.; 3210 Northfield READERS’ CHOICE: Quaker Steak and Lube When it comes to Readers’ Choice for Best Drive; and 6901 Preston Drive in Chatham. Category: Best New Restaurant READERS’ CHOICE: Gabatoni’s Restaurant Italian Restaurant, the only question is which Business Name: Quaker Steak & Lube Category: Best Pizza businesses will claim second and third places. Consistent winner Xochimilco offers authentic City: Springfield Business Name: Gabatoni’s Restaurant and Five for five, Saputo’s has been family owned Mexican cuisine with daily specials, a full menu Business Phone: 787-5823 (LUBE) Cocktail Lounge and operated for three generations, serving and bar. The owners say they work hard to serve Hours: Sun-Thurs 11am-11pm. Fri/Sat 11am- City: Springfield Springfield at the same location for going on 65 the best authentic Mexican food in Springfield 1am Business Phone: 528-9629 years. Their recipes are time-tested, and a family and are thankful to their loyal customers. Website: thelube.com Hours: 11 a.m.-midnight seven days a week; member is on duty each and every day to oversee Owners: Company owned location bar open until 1 a.m. operations. SECOND PLACE: La Fiesta Number of Employees: Approximately 150 Owners: Rosalie Beck THIRD PLACE: Los Rancheros Years of Operation: Opened Oct. 2011 Number of Employees: 30 SECOND PLACE: Bella Milano Location: 1121 W. Lincolnshire Blvd. and 46 Years of Operation: Since 1951 THIRD PLACE: Olive Garden nationwide, located in 15 Location: 300 E. Laurel St. Best Martini states READERS’ CHOICE: Ross Isaac Gabatoni’s was founded by Johnny Best Margarita SECOND PLACE: Osaka It’s been open Lynn (1917-1995) and his wife THIRD PLACE: Indigo barely four Rosemary Lynn (1918-2000). READERS’ CHOICE: Xochimilco months, but In 1951, after returning from Category: Best Margarita and Best Mexican Quaker service in the Marine Business Name: Xochimilco Best Mexican Steak & Corps, Johnny decided to City: Springfield READERS’ CHOICE: Xochimilco Lube is take his love of food and Business Phone: 546-3116 SECOND PLACE: La Fiesta clearly a cooking and share it with Hours: 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. M-Th.; 11 a.m.- THIRD PLACE: Los Agaves force to be the community in which 10:30 p.m. Fri.; 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Sat.; reckoned he lived. Gabatoni’s first with; its Best opened in downtown Ginger Asian Bistro New Restau- Springfield, 300 E. Washing- 3100 West White Oaks Dr rant win is ac- ton St., and operated there for Springfield, IL companied by its eight years. In 1959, they moved Asian Bistro (217) 726-0808 Ginger second-place finish in to the current location at 300 E. WE THANK ALL OF OUR LOYAL CUSTOMERS Shrimp Tempura the Best Wings category. Laurel St., where the business is still & Alaska Roll Founded in 1974 and built in family owned and operated seven days a week. FOR VOTING GINGER ASIAN BISTRO ONE an abandoned gas station in Sharon, Pa., the Johnny and Rosemary’s daughter, Rosalie, OF THE BEST IN SPRINGFIELD! original Quaker Steak & Lube began as a cook- has been involved in the business from its incep- your-own steak restaurant and home for vintage tion in 1951. Since the passing of her parents, Bring in this ad and receive muscle cars (as part of the décor). Now a family- Rosalie has carried on the tradition of providing 15% off your bill. friendly restaurant with a motor-themed atmos- quality meals at a reasonable price, using only (does not include bar drinks.) phere and more than 30 locations across the the finest ingredients of the highest quality. Ex. 3-28-12 U.S., The Lube serves more than 70 million Rosemary and her team at Gabatoni's would Walnut Shrimp wings annually and has won more than 100 like to thank all of the valued customers and local, national and international awards for its friends over the years for their loyal support. We sauce recipes. look forward to serving you for many years to In addition to its award-winning chicken come. Hong Kong Steak wings and 25 signature wing sauces, The Lube Thank you, everyone! boasts a large selection of menu items including burgers, sandwiches, fresh salads, steaks and SECOND PLACE: Pizza Hut ribs. Its loyal following is partly inspired by THIRD PLACE: Papa Murphy's weekly events and specials like "All-You-Can- Dragon Roll Eat Wings and Build-Your-Own-Horseshoe Bar Tuesdays" and “Bike-Night Thursdays.” Best Quick Lunch The restaurant also features the “Atomic Wing READERS’ CHOICE: Head West Sub Stop Challenge.” Their sauces, after all, go from mild SECOND PLACE: Subway all the way up to “triple atomic.” THIRD PLACE: Panera Bread Good luck!

722982 Sunday, February 26, 2012 THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Springfield, Illinois Page 7 Best Romantic Rosalino. Both locations offer a full service bar and Dinner feature an exposed brick pizza oven where customers watch their hand-tossed pizzas, tasty READERS’ CHOICE: Bella Milano calzone or Panini sandwiches prepared. The Category: Best Romantic Dinner and Best Springfield restaurant can accommodate groups West Side Dining and parties up to 68 in their banquet room, Business Name: Bella Milano separated from the main dining area by a see- City: Springfield through fireplace. The main dining area offers Business Phone: 547-0011 comfortable, high back booths that provide an Hours: Lunch: 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. daily; Din- intimate setting for diners. And in December of ner, 4:30-9 p.m. Sun-Th; 4:30 to 10 p.m. F-Sat. 2010 Bella Springfield added the Tuscan Room, Website: bellamilanos.com available for additional seating or banquets, Owners: Craig Kalogerou and Sam Guarino meetings and events and equipped with full AV Years of Operation: since November 2005 and widescreen capabilities. Location: 4525 W. Wabash Ave. Bella Milano catering serves both the Restaurants are located in Edwardsville (Dec Edwardsville and Springfield markets for on-site 2003), Springfield (Nov 2005), LeClaire Cater- and off-site events including weddings, corporate ing Center in Edwardsville (March 2008) and, events, reunions and a wide variety of other opening in Spring 2012, O'Fallon IL. social and business engagements. Bella Milano has established itself as a leader in both markets Edwardsville is the host city to the first location using the principles that combine academic of Bella Milano, which opened in 2004. qualifications and years of practical expertise in In 2005 Bella Milano added their second the areas of marketing, promotions, service, location on West Wabash Avenue. The Springfield management, customer relations and training. location was chosen as a location for a taste of Customers can expect consistent, high quality, The Hill in St. Louis after the owners visited the well-priced food served with fast and friendly city several times and became attracted to the service and in a comfortable and inviting am- small town, big city feel of Springfield. biance. Bella Milano's combination of mood The owners’ goal was to establish a “fine casual” lighting, music, stone decor and intimate seating, Italian restaurant with upscale ambiance and mixing class and elegance with modern menu, a wonderful atmosphere and the value of simplicity, has made Bella Milano Springfield’s more casual pricing. top pick for Best Romantic Dinner location for Charlie Parker's Diner 700 North Street The menu combines made-from-scratch the third year in a row as well as the top spot for family recipes in addition to those that originated West Side Dining. In addition, the restaurant Springfield, Illinois 62704 217-241-2104 from Italy and from the popular area called The has consistently been a runner-up for Best Hill in St. Louis. Bella Milano’s chefs prepare Italian, Best Fine Dining and Best Place for a authentic Italian from Northern and Southern First Date. Italy as well as popular steak, chicken and seafood entrees. The menu also includes several SECOND PLACE: Maldaner’s signature items including the famous “Milano THIRD PLACE: Ross Isaac Salad,” Chicken or Beef Milano and Shrimp

$ 00 00 Yes, We're Open : $ 5OFF 1 OFF DINNER Monday thru Saturday 6:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. LUNCH Sunday - Thursday. $10 Min. 11 am-2 pm • Sunday-Thursday With purchase of 2 dinners. & Sunday 7:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. 723052 $5 Minimum. With purchase Not valid with any 2941 W. Iles Springfield - 546-3116 of 2 lunches. Not valid. other special. with any other special 3210 Northfield - 544-9206 Rt.4 Chatham - 483-1006 722716 Page 8 Springfield, Illinois THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Sunday, February 26, 2012 After more than 34 years holding forth on the Best Sushi Best Wings Old Capitol Plaza in downtown Springfield, it's still the lure of the soup that brings folks in the READERS’ CHOICE: Osaka READERS’ CHOICE: Buffalo Wild Wings door. Each morning, the restaurant sets up the SECOND PLACE: Kiku Japanese Steak & Category: Best Wings stockpots and creates six or seven different vari- Seafood Business Name: Buffalo Wild Wings Grill & eties from scratch for the daily lunch crowd. THIRD PLACE: Pao Bar In the beginning, there were only two choices: City: Springfield mushroom bisque and beef barley. Eventually, Business Phone: Wabash: 546-9453; Dirk- customers wanted more, and the owners quickly sen: 670-0048 added new options. The No. 1 seller continues to Hours: 11 a.m.-1 a.m. M-Sat., 11 a.m.-mid- be the robust, creamy Wisconsin cheese, made night Sundays with Cheddar and a bit of beer; the venerable Website: buffalowildwings.com mushroom, cream of broccoli and French potato Owners: Doug and Jayme Cekander follow closely. Number of Employees: about 75 total Whether it’s five above zero with a wind- Years of Operation: Wabash, 6; Dirksen, 1½ chill -10 or 95 in July, the soup still anchors Location: 4420 Wabash Ave and 2808 N. lunch. At Christmas, hundreds and hundreds of Dirksen Parkway quarts fly out the door, ending up on the central Illinois holiday tables. Some of the soups have One of the fastest-growing restaurant chains become the first “real food” parents have fed in the country, Buffalo Wild Wings’ menu features their babies, and now those babies are bringing salads, appetizers, burgers, flatbreads, wraps in kids of their own. and ribs. Recipes for home-sized quantities of the beef But let’s not kid ourselves. It’s about the Best Soup barley, mushroom bisque, and cheese are avail- Best West Side wings. READERS’ CHOICE: The Feed Store able on request. Dining The restaurant offers 15 signature sauces, 4 Category: Best Soup dry rubs, more than 20 beers on tap and a relaxed, Business Name: The Feed Store SECOND PLACE: Panera Bread READERS’ CHOICE: Bella Milano comfortable atmosphere. City: Springfield THIRD PLACE: McCormick’s SECOND PLACE: Pao Oh, yes, and they’re the five-time winner of Business Phone: 528-3355 THIRD PLACE: American Harvest the five-year-old Readers’ Choice award for best Hours: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. M-F. wings. B-Dubs is clearly doing something right. Owners: Ann Laurence, Ross Richardson and Best Steak Best Wi-Fi Daniel Laurence-Richardson (the next genera- SECOND PLACE: Quaker Steak and Lube tion) READERS’ CHOICE: Longhorn Steakhouse READERS’ CHOICE: Panera Bread THIRD PLACE: Westwood’s Lodge Pub & Grill Years of Operation: Opened in 1977 SECOND PLACE: Alexander's Steakhouse SECOND PLACE: Starbucks Location: 516 E. Adams St. THIRD PLACE: Texas Roadhouse THIRD PLACE: McDonald's

Café Moxo appreciates the people of Springfield remembering to eat and shop locally owned independent businesses. Thank You! Sunday, February 26, 2012 THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Springfield, Illinois Page 9

Widow at Windsor, you enter a destination, BUSINESS home to antique and vintage treasures unique to anything seen before. Best Antique The owners travel the globe in search of dis- tinctive treasures. From the famous French Shop antique markets in Paris to antique warehouses in Belgium to private estates in corners of Europe READERS’ CHOICE: Widow at Windsor An- and even remote provinces of China, their tiques relentless pursuit of antiques results in a shop Category: Best Antique Shop full of elegant furniture, statement pieces, art Business Name: Widow at Windsor Antiques work, vintage jewelry, stained glass, sterling, City: Springfield mirrors, chandeliers, designer crystal, old books, Business Phone: 744-3735 accessories and one-of-a-kind surprises await. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wed.-Sat. The Widow’s eclectic inventory is showcased Website: widowatwindsorantiques.com in a charming 1920s Mediterranean Revival Owners: Tom and Marilyn Kushak building - an architectural treasure in itself. By Number of Employees: 5 the end of February, the Widow is receiving yet Best bank: United Community Bank Years of Operation: 6 years another container of over 300 treasures Tom & Location: 711 S. 5th St. Marilyn have hand-selected from many coun- Website: UCBbank.com counties: Sangamon, Greene, Macoupin, tries all over Europe. Owners: 100 percent employee owned; Hancock, Brown, Adams, Pike and Scott. There The Widow at Windsor owners Tom and Robert A. Narmont is chairman and CEO. are branches in Auburn, Augusta, Bunker Hill, Marilyn Kushak are honored and humbled to SECOND PLACE: Flea Market to Fabulous Number of Employees: 240 Carlinville, Carthage, Chatham, Divernon, once again receive the SJR Readers’ Choice THIRD PLACE: Recycled Records Years of Operation: Established in 1907 Gillespie, Golden, Greenfield, Hamilton, Loami, Award by the vote of confidence from their cher- Location: Headquartered in Chatham; many Mount Sterling, Pawnee, Pittsfield, Roodhouse, ished customers. “Eclectic” is the word for this locations Springfield and Winchester, with numerous five-time winner; a visit to Widow at Windsor is Best Auto Repair 24-hour ATM locations throughout the area. an experience in discovering new selections that Shop United Community Bank has a rich tradition Recognized as “The Leader of Community are unusual, whimsical and serendipitous - of local history and deep roots in the communities Banking,” United Community Bancorp, Inc. is complete with beautiful music and candles READERS’ CHOICE: Brahler’s Lube Center we serve. As a result, we take pride in offering 100% employee owned with an asset size glowing. When you step over the threshold of SECOND PLACE: Zara’s Collision Center the highest level of customer service. We know exceeding $1.2 billion and a very strong history THIRD PLACE: Kim's Auto Body that our customers expect the very best, and our within the communities it serves. goal is to meet or exceed those expectations each Best Bank and every day. SECOND PLACE: Marine Bank Our story began in 1973, when a local group THIRD PLACE: Illinois National Bank READERS’ CHOICE: United Community Bank invested in Farmer’s State Bank in Greenfield, Category: Best Bank which was established in 1907. The goal was to Business Name: United Community Bank deliver the ultimate in customer service and to Best Car Wash City: Headquartered in Chatham acquire other banks in central and southern Illinois. READERS’ CHOICE: Sparkling Clean Car Business Phone: 483-2491 Always keeping the original “ultimate Wash Hours: Cutoff time is 5 p.m. at all locations, customer service” objective in mind, UCB has SECOND PLACE: Car Wash City Saturday and Sunday hours at Springfield and grown to become the leader of community THIRD PLACE: Drive In Car Wash Widow at Best antique shop: Chatham locations banking. UCB is currently operating in eight Windsor Antiques 721066

722562 Page 10 Springfield, Illinois THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Sunday, February 26, 2012 Best South Grand Avenue West, 2717 Sangamon Av- local belonging to any District Council, which is Earnings are returned to the member/owners enue, inside Memorial Medical Center, 701 N. part of the Midwest Region; LIUNA; any employee through lower loan rates, higher dividends and Cell First Street, Room C18 and immediate family members of employees of fewer fees. the Memorial Health System and its controlled According to the website statement from Phone Heartland Credit Union, voted Best affiliates, including Memorial Medical Center, president Ed Gvazdinskas, “Our credit union is not Credit Union by SJ-R readers for the Memorial Medical Center Foundation, Memorial profit driven, but member-owner driven. Our Provider fifth year in a row, was founded in 1946 Child Care, Home Health Ventures, Memorial mission is “To Improve Members’ Lives”. Every in Springfield, with 27 charter members. Home Services, HealthCare Network Associates, employee and every volunteer board member of the READERS’ CHOICE: AT&T Wireless Today, Heartland Credit Union is a source Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation, credit union is committed to focusing their SECOND PLACE: Verizon Wireless for more than just credit; it is a hometown in- Lincoln Health Service, Taylorville Memorial Hos- every attention to this mission. This member THIRD PLACE: US Cellular stitution offering complete member services for pital & Foundation, Mental Health Centers of driven culture is what truly distinguishes Heartland every financial need, large or small. Heartland Central Illinois and SIU School of Medicine. from every other financial institution in our market Credit Union provides service to more than Heartland operates according to seven principles place.” Best Credit 25,000 members at four Springfield locations, as founded in the philosophy of cooperation and its Union well as through online and phone access. central values of equality, equity and mutual self- SECOND PLACE: CEFCU A credit union is a not-for-profit financial coop- help. There are no stockholders or investors. THIRD PLACE: Sangamon Schools Credit READERS’ CHOICE: Heartland Credit Union erative owned by the members it serves. These Union Category: Best Credit Union members are individuals that have a common Business Name: Heartland Credit Union bond with each other, such as living in the same City: Springfield area or working in the same field. Business Phone: 726-8877 Membership in Heartland Credit Union is Hours: varies by location available to anyone who lives or works in Cass, Website: hcu.org Logan, Macoupin, Menard, Montgomery, Morgan Owners: Member owned or Sangamon counties; any employee of the U.S. Number of Employees: 70 government; employees of the Southern Illinois Years of Operation: opened in 1946 Airport Authority; any member of the Gospel Location: 2213 West White Oaks Drive, 720 Kingdom Church; any member of any Laborers’

Thank You Springfield & SJR Readers For Voting Us ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO BUY A Nick PowellNEW & USED CAR!! Walt Skube Congratulations to Nick & Walt for being voted top 2 Salesmen!

LANDMARKAUTO.COM 721404 Sunday, February 26, 2012 THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Springfield, Illinois Page 11 Best Day Care Number of Employees: 2,000 Years of Operation: Since 1939 READERS’ CHOICE: Building Blocks Location: Main location, 1025 S. Sixth St.; Preschool more than 40 Springfield Clinic offices and Category: Best Day Care specialty outreach locations can be found Business Name: Building Blocks Preschool throughout central Illinois. City: Springfield Business Phone: 698-8877 Founded in 1939 by five physician partners, Hours: 6 a.m.-6 p.m. (south location); 6 a.m.- Springfield Clinic was one of the first multi- 11:45 p.m. (west location) specialty medical clinics to form in downstate Owners: Devi Harper Illinois. Through numerous local mergers, Number of Employees: 120 ongoing physician recruitment and physician Years of Operation: South location opened in retention, Springfield Clinic became and remains April 2000; West location opened in August one of Illinois’ largest private multi-specialty clinics. 1990. is designed to streamline a child into kinder- Best Doctor’s With more than 350 board-certified garten. It blends two schools of thought - sensory- Office providers, including physicians, surgeons and Building Blocks Preschool has been a part of based retention and fundamental readiness - mid-levels, Springfield Clinic provides patient the Springfield community for 22 years, offering and teaches basic skills such as writing, pre-math, READERS’ CHOICE: Springfield Clinic care in nearly every field of medicine. From two locations (south and west campuses). It pre-reading and listening. In addition, the Category: Best Doctor’s Office primary care to highly specialized medical emphasizes experiences that promote natural school has a computer lab, music, Spanish, listening Business Name: Springfield Clinic treatments, Springfield Clinic offers expertise curiosity, socialization, communication, problem centers and American Sign Language programs. City: Springfield in nearly 80 medical specialties and sub-specialties. solving and positive self-esteem. Learning Building Blocks Preschool is Readers’ Choice Business Phone: 528-7541 Patients throughout Central Illinois can access experiences are cultivated through music, play top pick for the fifth year in a row. Hours: Medical offices, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. All an extensive network of primary care doctors and exploration with a caring, knowledgeable Prompt Care locations in Springfield and Jack- and medical specialists close to home. On a staff. SECOND PLACE: Pleasant Run sonville, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. regular basis, Springfield-based specialists travel to Building Blocks’ certified preschool curricu- THIRD PLACE: Calvary Temple Website: SpringfieldClinic.com more than 40 destinations throughout the region - lum, The Sensory Teaching Readiness Curriculum, Owners: Physician partnership Springfield Clinic offices, other physician offices or

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And, for those on the go, Springfield Clinic has an app for that. mySpringfieldClinic, the area’s first health care app for the iPhone and iPad, is available as a free download from the iTunes store. The app contains useful tools including a physician directory, maps of locations and other useful ways to connect with Springfield Clinic. While Springfield Clinic has grown in many ways, the same spirit of dedication to patients, commitment to quality and passion for innova- tion remains present more than 70 years later. Today, Springfield Clinic's mission is to provide the highest quality health care to the people of Central Illinois, and the doctors of Springfield Clinic continue to lead the way toward that goal.

SECOND PLACE: Koke Mill Medical Center THIRD PLACE: Dr. Scott Morton Springfield Best doctor’s office: Springfield Clinic Clinic to local hospitals - providing the same high quality comprehensive health management services for physicians and surgeons perform more than of care they deliver from their primary locations. patients with sleep disorders, diabetes, breast 16,500 procedures in the facility, which offers Additionally, Springfield Clinic offers a full cancer and other conditions. more privacy, greater convenience and lower complement of services that includes Lab, Springfield Clinic is home to the area’s first costs than surgery performed in a traditional Radiology, Audiology, Behavioral Health, Clinical free-standing Ambulatory Surgery and Endoscopy hospital setting. Research, Optical, Massage Therapy and Center, complete with five surgical and four Deeply committed to quality care, Springfield Physical Therapy. Springfield Clinic also offers endoscopy suites. Each year, Springfield Clinic Clinic is equally dedicated to providing the latest in medical technology. Springfield Clinic was one of the first large, multi-specialty medical groups Our community would like to thank in the country to implement a fully-integrated the Springfield community again electronic health record (EHR) system. for this Reader’s Choice Award - In 2011, Springfield Clinic launched my- “Best Retirement Community” Health@SC, a secure and convenient patient portal which enables users to access their electronic medical record online. In addition to managing their personal health records, patients can request Our Levels of Care appointments and prescription refills, and Concordia Village is developing as a Continuing Care communicate with their physicians' offices Retirement Community offering: through a message feature. Access to this innovative and free health management tool is available to t
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locations feature a drive-through door where Years of Operation: 39 years ashleyfurniturehomestores.com staff will put customers' clothes in their car. Location: 121 North Grand Ave. Owners: The Seidman Family Most recently, Starcrest will send the customer a W.; 2741 Prairie Crossing Dr. Number of Employees: 50 (com- text message or e-mail when their order is ready bined) to be picked up. Vision Care Associates uses state-of- Years of Operation: Barney's: since Starcrest is also committed to an operation the-art technology and continuous edu- 1939; Ashley: since 2006 that's better for the environment. They have cation to ensure that patients receive the Location: 2410 S. Grand Avenue E.; Ashley: continued to update equipment to lower utility best care possible. For nearly four decades, 2325 Chuckwagon Dr. usage and provide for better quality pressing VCA doctors have been meeting the full and now reclaim steam for lower utility usage as spectrum of eye health needs for central Illi- This is the fifth year for the SJ-R’s well. All store lighting has been replaced with nois while the VCA Eyewear Gallery with over Readers’ Choice Awards, and the same high efficiency lights, and they use only 100% 2,000 frames provides the latest in eyewear two furniture stores have filled the top slots biodegradable plastic bags that can be recycled fashion. Two Springfield locations offer pa- every year, both owned by Seidman Family and will degrade in one year if thrown away. tients convenience and responsiveness. This is Stores. Barney’s has been on top every Best Dry the fifth win in a row for Vision Care Associates. year but one, when readers chose its Cleaners SECOND PLACE: Paris Fabricare Specialists sister store Ashley Furniture Home- THIRD PLACE: Village Cleaners SECOND PLACE: Prairie Eye & Lasik Store instead. This marks READERS’ CHOICE: Starcrest Cleaners Center Barney’s third win in a row Category: Best Dry Cleaners THIRD PLACE: Lens Crafters in this family rivalry. Business Name: Starcrest Cleaners Best Eye Center For three generations Springfield’s City: Springfield READERS’ CHOICE: Vision Care Associates Seidman family has worked hard to Business Phone: 726-6564 Category: Best Eye Center Best Florist bring great furniture value and service to Hours: 6:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. M-F; 6:30 a.m.- Business Name: Vision Care Associates READERS’ CHOICE: Fifth Street Flower Shop Springfield and the Central Illinois area. A 6 p.m. Sat.; 10 a.m-6 p.m. Sun. City: Springfield SECOND PLACE: True Colors single location, locally owned store like Website: Starcrestcleaners.net Business Phone: 800-272-7393 THIRD PLACE: Flowers by Mary Lou Barney’s is unusual in today’s economy, but the Owners: Todd and Sarah Nelson Hours: 7 a.m.-6 p.m. M-Th; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. F; THIRD PLACE (tie): Trendsetters company’s dedication to service and value al- Number of Employees: 40 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Sat. lows it to thrive. Years of Operation: 16 years Website: vision-care.com In 2006, the Seidman family brought that Location: W. White Oaks Dr.; 4349 Conestoga Owners: Partner/doctors owned Best Furniture same commitment to value and service to the Drive; 1825 W. Jefferson St. Number of Employees: 65 Store Ashley Furniture HomeStore. Although part of a licensed retail group, the Ashley Furniture Home- Readers’ Choice Best Dry Cleaners for five READERS’ CHOICE: Barney’s Furniture Store is also locally owned and managed and years running, Starcrest Cleaners is a dry cleaning Category: Best Furniture Store shares the same philosophy of value, service and operation locally owned by Todd and Sarah Business Name: Seidman Family Stores commitment that you'll find at Barney’s. Nelson. Its three Springfield locations are open (Barney’s Furniture and the Ashley Furniture The Seidman family wants to thank everyone seven days a week and offer same-day service Homestore) for supporting the Seidman Family Furniture Monday through Saturday. Business Phone: 789-1926; 726-5405 stores over the years and looks forward to contin- Starcrest’s success lies in the progressive Hours: Barney's: 9 a.m.-7 p.m. M-Th; 9 a.m.- uing to earn your trust and your business. nature of its customer service. The company has 5:30 p.m. F-Sat.; Closed Sunday. two full-service dry cleaning facilities, and the Ashley: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. M-F; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. SECOND PLACE: Ashley Furniture Home- third and newest store offers a laundromat with Sat.; Noon-5 p.m. Sunday. store a drop off dry cleaning service as well. All three Website: barneysfurniture.com; THIRD PLACE: La-Z-Boy

Thank you for voting 722188 for Pleasant Run Learning Center and s Preschool in the best daycare category! lebrraattiinngg SSeevveenn YYeeaarrs CCeeleb Pleasant R un... Where your child is #1! 722344 Page 14 Springfield, Illinois THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Sunday, February 26, 2012 Gas Station/ Home quality in craftsmanship. The family-owned and -operated business for three generations is Convenience Improvement entering its seventh year in Springfield. Denney Jewelers’ staff is highly trained and Store READERS’ CHOICE: Lowe’s includes gemologists, diamond experts, SECOND PLACE: Menard’s knowledgeable salespeople and skilled jewelry READERS’ CHOICE: Qik-N-EZ THIRD PLACE: Ace Hardware craftsman and designers. They are at the cutting SECOND PLACE: Thornton’s edge of the jewelry industry in design and THIRD PLACE: Casey’s manufacturing, with all work performed on-site Best Jewelry in Springfield. Denney Jewelers can take an idea Store from sketch, to computer model, to wax prototype, Best Grocery to precious metal casting, and Store READERS’ CHOICE: Denney Jewelers finally into a finely crafted Category: Best Jewelry Store work of jewelry art. READERS’ CHOICE: County Market Business Name: Denney Jewelers The company’s impressive SECOND PLACE: Schnucks City: Springfield 10,000-square foot showroom THIRD PLACE: Shop ‘n Save Business Phone: 787-0500 allows it to offer the widest Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. M-Sat.; selection of fine jewelry, 12-5 p.m. Sun. diamonds and colored Best Hearing Website: denneyjewelers.com gemstones in the re- Center Owners: Shane and Cathy Denney gion. Number of Employees: 16 Denney Jewelers READERS’ CHOICE: Memorial Hearing Center Years of Operation: Founded in 1954 prides itself on its SECOND PLACE: Central IL Hearing and Location: 2901 West Wabash Ave. skilled staff, its quality products, its personal Speech-Dr. Groesch customer service and its community involve- THIRD PLACE: Kerr Hearing Aid Center Since its founding in 1954, Denney Jewelers ment. has focused on the principles of service and According to the owners, “We care about our

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fund training programs and other career services! Luke Lee Gaule Luke J.Gaule David Gaule New Donation Larry Gaule Centers Luke Lee Gaule & 6000 S. 6th St, Spfld Industries 113 Calvin, Savoy David Lee Gaule

Chatham Bloomington Lincoln Springfield AUCTIONEERS & CAGA Appraiser 75 W. Plummer Blvd. 401 Greenbriar 1479 Woodlawn Rd. 2531 N. Dirksen Pkwy. 815 North 11th Street 5033 Gaule Road, Springfield, Illinois 62712-8338 Jacksonville Champaign Effingham 2001 Wabash 1809 West Morton 912 W. Anthony 1004 N. Keller Dr. 217-523-7272 Office | 217-741-2717 Cell www.lukeleegaule.com WWW.LLGI.ORG We specialize in Farmland, Homes, Antiques, Household, Tools & Livestock 721684 Your donations change lives. -6,&
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"6$5*0/&&3 Sunday, February 26, 2012 THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Springfield, Illinois Page 15 product, we care about our customer and we care about our community; we think this is a Best Law Firm winning combination for Springfield and so do READERS’ CHOICE: Delano Law Offices LLC our customers. All of us at Denney Jewelers are SECOND PLACE: Brown, Hay & Stephens extremely thankful to everyone who voted us THIRD PLACE: Sorling Law Office Best Jewelry Store in Springfield and we look forward to serving you for many years to come.” Best Lawn Care SECOND PLACE: Giganti & Giganti Jewelers READERS’ CHOICE: Jack Robertson Lawn THIRD PLACE: Kay Jewelers Care Category: Best Lawn Care Business Name: Robertson Lawn Care Inc. Best Kitchen/ City: Springfield Bath Remodeling Business Phone: 787-5877 Hours: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. M-F READERS’ CHOICE: Lowe’s Website: robertsonlawncare.com SECOND PLACE: Menard’s Owners: Jack Robertson THIRD PLACE: Destinctive Design Number of Employees: 12 Years of Operation: 35 years Location: 3441 Constitution Drive time” method, Jack Robertson and the experienced They have also given back to the community by staff at Robertson Lawn Care, with over 100 participating in the Springfield Green program Robertson Lawn Care, Inc., is a locally owned years combined experience, have always and supporting various other local charities and and operated professional lawn care service maintained their commitment to family, em- school programs throughout the year. providing fertilizer, seeding, aeration and lawn ployees, customer satisfaction and the community. pest control services to the Springfield area Over the years this company has received various SECOND PLACE: Lawn Doctor since 1977. Serving thousands of customers over awards and national recognition for customer THIRD PLACE: TruGreen the years in a very personal “one customer at a service, leadership and dedication to the industry. Best law firm: Delano Law Ofices LLC

#1 Best

33 YEARSYEARS ININ AA ROW!ROW! Fish Fry Schedule (4:30pm to 7:00pm) January 27, February 10, 22 (Ash Wednesday) & 24 March 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30 • April 6 (Good Friday) Catfish Dinner...... $1050 Shrimp Dinner ...... $850 Carp Dinner ...... $800 Carp Sandwich...... $650 Walleye Dinner...... $850 Walleye Sandwich ...... $700 Hot Dogs...... $150 Chicken Fingers & Fries ...... $600 Baked Potatoes • French Fries • Cole Slaw • Potato Salad Beer • Wine • Soda • Mixed Drinks 722516 FREE Fountain Soda w/Meal Purchase With This Coupon Carry Outs Available • “To Go” orders add 25¢ Knights of Columbus #4175 North Council Page 16 Springfield, Illinois THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Sunday, February 26, 2012

Business Name: Inn & Suites at 4 doctors on staff. Now in its 27th year, the Sangamon Avenue Veterinary Clinic Howliday Inn & Suites at Sangamon Avenue City: Springfield Veterinary Clinic isn't just a place for your pets Business Phone: 789-0011 to stay, it’s a place where a veterinarian will keep Hours: 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. M-F; 8 a watchful eye on them. Luxury boarding suites a.m.-12 p.m. Sat. are themed, such as the Illini Room, the SIU Website: savc.vetsuite.com Room, the Nascar Room, the Cowboy Room and Owners: Franklin Coble, DVM. the Princess Room. The suites offer privacy so Other veterinarians are Cathy Best, that your pet can feel at home. Regular pampered DVM; Sarah Smith, DVM; Melissa cage boarding and Day Care are also available. O'Brien, DVM; and Staci Slager, The Sangamon Avenue Veterinary Clinic DVM seeks to provide the best possible medical care, Best liquor store: Friar Tuck Number of Employees: 20 surgical care and dental care for their highly- Years of Operation: Opened in 1985 valued patients. Location: Sangamon Avenue Veteri- Best Liquor nary Clinic, 2525 Sangamon Avenue; also Coble SECOND PLACE: Dal Acres Animal Hospital, 2828 South MacArthur Boule- THIRD PLACE: Laketown Animal Store vard, phone 789-4200, Hospital READERS’ CHOICE: Friar Tuck Beverage www.cobleah.vetsuite.com, opened 1941. SECOND PLACE: 709 Liquors Best Pet THIRD PLACE: The Northender After growing up at Coble Animal Hospital and working with his father in high school and Groomer Best Pet Boarder his early college years, Franklin A. Coble, DVM graduated from the U of I in 1970 and joined READERS’ CHOICE: Petsmart READERS’ CHOICE: Howliday Inn-Sangamon the practice. SECOND PLACE: Dal Acres Veterinary Clinic In 1985 Dr. Coble opened this new hospital on THIRD PLACE: The Dog House Category: Best Pet Boarder Sangamon Avenue. It quickly grew and now has Sunday, February 26, 2012 THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Springfield, Illinois Page 17 Best Pharmacy came from General Manager Mike Quimby: “That’s simple! It’s not about cars, it’s about READERS’ CHOICE: Walgreens people!” SECOND PLACE: CVS Pharmacy THIRD PLACE: Wal-Mart SECOND PLACE: Friendly Chevrolet THIRD PLACE: Landmark Ford Best Place to Best Place to Buy a New Car Buy a Used Car READERS’ CHOICE: Green Hyundai Category: Best Place to Buy a New Car and READERS’ CHOICE: Green Hyundai Best retirement home: Concordia Village Best Place to Buy a Used Car SECOND PLACE: Friendly Chevrolet Business Name: Green Hyundai THIRD PLACE: Landmark Automotive City: Springfield Concordia Village by 78 apartments, 14 patio Business Phone: 525-1370 Business Phone: 793-9429 homes and 48 assisted living units, all of which Website: greenhyundai.com Website: lssliving.org opened in 2009. 65 new jobs were added to the Owners: Todd Green Best Place Owners: Lutheran Senior Services, St. Louis, MO Springfield area with the development. Number of Employees: 91 to Work Number of Employees: 75 Lutheran Senior Services has roots dating Years of Operation: 26 (since 1986) Years of Operation: Opened in 1995, with back more than 150 years, and currently has Location: 1200 S. Dirksen Parkway and READERS’ CHOICE: State of Illinois major expansion in 2009 nine retirement communities in Missouri and Green Hyundai Certified West at White Oaks SECOND PLACE: United Community Bank Location: 4104 West Iles Illinois similar to Concordia Village. LSS is a Mall THIRD PLACE: Illinois National Bank non-for-profit organization with a mission to Concordia Village was originally started by 30 “help older adults live life to its fullest,” based on Readers’ Choice winners were asked to local Lutheran churches and consisted of 33 the Bible's John 10:10. People from all beliefs provide some insight about their business and Best Retirement Independent Living apartments. In 2005, it and faith traditions are welcome at LSS describe what makes it unique and keeps Home affiliated with Lutheran Senior Services (LSS) of communities, including Concordia Village. customers coming back. Green Hyundai’s reply St. Louis, which viewed the Springfield market Concordia Village offers lovely homes, excellent READERS CHOICE: Concordia Village as a natural growth of its services. LSS expanded dining services, housekeeping, transportation Category: Best Retirement Home Business Name:Concordia Village

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and activities, accentuating “life” in senior 8880; 3300 Robbins Road, Location: 2828 South MacArthur Boulevard; living. In summer of 2010, the facility broke phone 787-7770; 3006 also, Sangamon Avenue Veterinary Clinic, 2525 ground for an additional 9 patio homes and a Crossing Court, Cham- Sangamon Ave., phone 789-0011, opened 1985, skilled nursing care center, which recently paign, phone 355-0505. www.savc.vetsuite.com. began to accept residents. The care center offers Coble Animal Hospital was started 70 years residents a smaller, more homelike environment, BJ Grand Salon & Spa ago by J. Porter Coble, DVM, who worked out of with life centered on the kitchen and living continues to lead by offer- his home for six years before building the South room. Care is person-centered, with consistent ing the most advanced MacArthur hospital in 1946-47. After growing caregivers and services. services in hair design, up at the hospital and working with his father in esthetics, nail care, massage high school and his early college years, Franklin SECOND PLACE: Bickford House and body therapies available A. Coble, DVM, graduated from the University THIRD PLACE: St. Joseph's Home in the industry today. of Illinois in 1970 and joined the practice. The With three full-service lo- hospital has grown to have 5 veterinarians on cations, two in Springfield staff. Best and one in Champaign, BJ In 1985 the younger Dr. Coble opened a new Salon/Barber Grand Salon & Spa has hospital on Sangamon Avenue. It quickly grew earned its well-respected and now has 4 doctors on staff. The business READERS CHOICE: BJ Grand Salon & Spa reputation and staying power continues to expand and embrace new tech- Category: Best Salon/Barber and Best Day by literally remaining on the nologies to benefit their animal patients. Spa cutting edge. Continuing Business Name: BJ Grand Salon & Spa education for the hundreds SECOND PLACE: Sangamon Avenue Vet Clinic Hours: 8 a.m.-8 p.m. M-F; 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat.; of employees has kept BJ THIRD PLACE: Capitol Illini Vet Clinic 12-5 p.m. Sun. Grand Salon & Spa at the Website: bjgrandsalon.com forefront of beauty industry Owners: Gail and John Lorenzini, Lynne trends. Clients know they Best Wine Lowder and Nick Lorenzini don't have to travel to Selection Years of Operation: 36 years Chicago or St. Louis for the Location: 3055 Professional Dr., phone 753- latest hair cut or body treat- READERS’ CHOICE: Friar Tuck ment; instead their beautiful journey can begin SECOND PLACE: Corkscrew Wine Emporium at any luxurious BJ Grand Salon & Spa location. Ltd THIRD PLACE: It’s All About Wine SECOND PLACE: Appearances Thanks for s THIRD PLACE: Reflecting A.R.T. Hair Studio it our way. eeing Best Specialty Food Store Readers’ Choice Best Eyecare Center 5 years running — we appreciate it! READERS CHOICE: Food Fantasies SECOND PLACE: Country Market Thank you to all who voted Vision Care THIRD PLACE: Food Mart Associates the Readers’ Choice Best Eyecare Center. Your vote of confidence means a lot to us. You can count on Vision Best Veterinarian Care continuing to provide exceptional eye READERS CHOICE: Coble Animal Hospital healthcare and service. Schedule an exam Category: Best Veterinarian and then select from over 2,000 brand Business Name: Coble Animal Hospital names in our Eyewear Gallery. City: Springfield Business Phone: 789-4200 Hours: 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. M-F; 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Sat. Website: cobleah.vetsuite.com Owners: Franklin A Coble, DVM; other vet- erinarians, Joan Saner Reeder, DVM; Jennifer Miller Jones, DVM; Sandra Gilmore, DVM; Michelle Bader, DVM. Mon - Thurs
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723068 Page 20 Springfield, Illinois THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Sunday, February 26, 2012 Best Car THIRD PLACE: Dr. Jared Kennedy we believe that communication and trust are PEOPLE essential components to a successful long-term Salesperson investment experience. Best DJ We are focused on building well-diversified READERS’ CHOICE: Nicholas Powell, Land- READERS’ CHOICE: Brad Schroder portfolios that are properly allocated to help mark Cadillac Category: Best DJ customers achieve their investment goals. We SECOND PLACE: Walt Skube-Landmark Ford Business Name: Schroeder’s DJ Service are committed to providing a high level of THIRD PLACE: Mike Quimby, Green Hyundai City: Springfield service to earn our client’s trust and ensure that Business Phone: 546-7408 they are confident in our investment approach. Best Hours: Available anytime Securities and insurance products provided Chiropractor Website: through Wayne Hummer Investments LLC. schroedersdjservice.com Member FINRA/SIPC. Not insured by READERS’ CHOICE: Reid Chiropractic & Nu- Owners: Brad Schroeder FDIC or any other government agency. No trition Center Number of Employ ees: bank guarantee. Not a bank deposit. May Category: Best Chiropractor 10 lose value. Business Name: Reid Chiropractic & Nutri- Years of Operation: Best auctioneer: Luke Lee Gaule tion Center 28 Years SECOND PLACE: Steven Koch, City: Springfield Location: Springfield Ameriprise Financial Business Phone: 698-5800 and serving all central THIRD PLACE: Gary Seitz, Hours: 8a.m.-5:30p.m. M&W; 9a.m.-Noon Tu; Illinois Merrill Lynch Best Auctioneer 9a.m.-5:30p.m. Th; 8a.m.-1p.m. F READERS’ CHOICE: Luke Lee Gaule Auction Website: reidfamilywellness.com SECOND PLACE: Mike Center Owners: Christopher J. Reid, DC DACBN, Greer Best Golf Pro Category: Best Auctioneer CCSP THIRD PLACE: Justin READERS’ CHOICE: Business Name: Luke Lee Gaule Auction Number of Employees: 4 Ford David Impastato, Piper Glen Golf Course Center Years of Operation: 15 Years Category: Best Golf Pro City: Springfield Location: 2920 Chatham Road, Suite A Business Name: Springfield Piper Glen Golf Business Phone: 523-7272 Best Club Website: lukeleegaule.com We are a family-based business with an em- Financial Planner City: Springfield Owners: Luke Lee Gaule phasis on service, education, and results! I think Business Phone: 483-6537 Number of Employees: 20 that my patients can sense that I love what I do, READERS’ CHOICE: Tate Jones, UCB Finan- Hours: 7:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Years of Operation: Business opened in 1879 and that my primary focus is on helping them cial Services Website: piperglen.com Location: 5033 Gaule Rd. with their health needs. Category: Best Financial Planner Owners: David Impastato Our family practices what we preach, and we City: Chatham Number of Employees: 34 SECOND PLACE: Patricia Doyle want others to experience the feeling and satis- Business Phone: 483-2491 Years of Operation: 16 Years THIRD PLACE: Cory Craig faction of obtaining and maintaining great Hours: 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. M-F; Saturday by Location: 7112 Piper Glen Drive health, in a very pro-active, cost-efficient man- appointment ner. Owners: Bob and Marsha Narmont In 2006 Taylorville native David Impastato Best Butcher The bottom line is, why wait.....until it is too Location: 301 N. Main St., Chatham purchased Piper Glen after serving as Director READERS’ CHOICE: Humphrey's Market late!? UCB Financial Services offers a wide array of of Golf at St. Charles Country Club in Chicago SECOND PLACE: Country Market SECOND PLACE: Advanced Center for Pain & financial products to assist you in achieving for 8 years. David has been a PGA Professional THIRD PLACE: Turasky's Meats Rehab, Dr. Paul Venturini your financial goals. At UCB Financial Services, 17 years and has been named PGA Merchandiser

Over 75 years of Premium Meats, Fresh Produce and Groceries!

From Our Family to Yours 722669 Sunday, February 26, 2012 THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Springfield, Illinois Page 21 of the Year twice (2002 & 2003). He was a Best Home member of the Illinois PGA of America Board in 2011. David is an avid teacher with more than 15 Builder years’ experience. He is involved with growing the game of golf not only with junior players but READERS’ CHOICE: Buraski Builders, Inc. throughout the Springfield community. He Category: Best Home Builder would like to invite you to come and see all that Business Name: Buraski Builders, Inc. piper Glen Golf Club has to offer. City: Springfield Business Phone: 529-5172 SECOND PLACE: Lance Flury, Pasfield Golf Hours: 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. M-F Course Website: buraski.com THIRD PLACE: Jim Sutzer, Lincoln Greens Owners: Frank Buraski, Barbara Buraski, Golf Course Jason Buraski, Heather Sobieski Number of Employees: 33 Years of Operation: Since 1981

Buraski Builders has grown from an office in Frank and Barb’s bedroom to an award-winning, full-service construction company offering a Best home builder: Buraski Builders, Inc. wide range of services to the central Illinois community. With Jason and Heather as part owners, light commercial construction; remodeling and What hasn’t changed since 1981 is the family Buraski Builders will continue for many years to room additions; maintenance and repairs; and aspect of the business. Today all four Buraskis come. It is important that clients and the home inspection services for buyers and sellers. are involved in the family-owned and -operated community are assured of their dependability The company’s computerized design-build company. Recently, both son Jason and daughter and longevity. service is particularly helpful to homeowners Heather (Sobieski) assumed partnership in the Buraski Builders encompasses all aspects of the interested in building new or remodeling. business. construction business, including new home and Service and dependability are the foundations 723071 Page 22 Springfield, Illinois THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Sunday, February 26, 2012 upon which Buraski Builders was built. They percentage; he was a “sure shot” when he got Best tailored to their own specific needs and desires. believe in service before, during and long after the ball. Today, that same intense focus on Terry is very active in the community and has the sale. excellence and skill is evident in his dedication Photographer won awards for his service. He has recently been Buraski Builders employees more than 30 to his clients and their risk protection. involved with the Springfield Art Association, full-time, highly qualified carpenters and office Since 2009, Timoney has been a member of READERS’ CHOICE: Terry Farmer Photography Red Cross, Catholic Charities and the Animal staff year round to control the high quality of the Society of Certified Insurance Counselors. Category: Best Photographer Protective League. work they expect for their clients. Buraski has The Society’s goal is a commitment to leadership Business Name: Terry Farmer Photography Terry Farmer Photography is been the winner of the Readers’ Choice award and professional excellence in the insurance City: Springfield proud to have been voted Best for best builder for five years in a row. industry. His participation expresses his devotion Business Phone: 698-6000 Photographer five years in to delivering the highest level of professional Hours: Monday-Friday a row. They want to SECOND PLACE: Moughan Builders, Inc. competence in insurance risk management for 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. thank all of their clients THIRD PLACE: Michael Von Behren Builders his clients. Website: who have continued to Kevin joined R. W. Troxell & Company in terryfarmer.com support them through- 1998 after spending fifteen years in the food Owner: Terry Farmer out the years. Best Insurance wholesale industry. He has an associate degree Number of Employ- Agent from Springfield College and is a graduate of the ees: 6 SECOND University of Illinois. Timoney is a current Years of Operation: 21 PLACE: Ed Clark READERS’ CHOICE: board member for the United States Insurance years Photography Kevin Timoney, R.W. Company and is involved in many community Location: 4133 Old THIRD PLACE: Troxell & Co organizations. Jacksonville Road Kimberly Smoot Category: Best Insur- Photography ance Agent SECOND PLACE: Mike Sauer, State Farm In- Terry Farmer Photography first opened its Business Name: R.W. surance doors in 1990. In 21 years, the studio has grown Troxell and Co. THIRD PLACE: Ron Mays, State Farm Insur- out of a small downtown office with only one City: Springfield ance employee to a brand new, environmentally- Best Politician Kevin Timoney Business Phone: friendly 9000-square-foot photography studio READERS’ CHOICE: State Sen. Larry Bomke 528-7533 with five additional employees. Category: Best Politician Hours: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. M-F Best Terry Farmer specializes in family, children, State Senator Larry K. Bomke Website: rwtroxell.com Philanthropist high school senior, business, commercial and 50th District Number of Employees: 100+ aerial photography; custom graphic design Phone: 782-0228 Years of Operation: 125 years READERS’ CHOICE: Charles Hoogland services; and restoration of faded, discolored or Website: bomke.senategop.org Location: Springfield, Chicago, Washington SECOND PLACE: Carolyn Oxtoby damaged heirloom prints. Their goal is to Years of service: 17 years and St. Louis THIRD PLACE: Butch Elzea provide personable and professional service Office location: Rm 307 State Capitol Spring- with high-quality portrait results. Each client field, IL 62706 In 1977, Timoney led the city in field goal receives a personalized experience that is

Thank You For Your Support! See You Downtown!

Upper Story Tour - May 3 Pied Piper Architectural Tours - May - October Art of IL Wine Fest - May 19 & 20 On behalf of the students, faculty, Old Capitol Farmers Market - May 16 - Oct. 27 staff, and the entire Taste of Downtown - July 6 & 7 Sacred Heart-Griffin Community, Old Capitol Blues & BBQ -August 24 & 25 we would like to thank Old Capitol Holiday Walks - Dec. 5,6,12, & 19 the State Journal-Register and its www.downtownspringfield.org readership for recognizing us for more info with this Readers' Choice Award:

217-544-1723 Best Local Team to Watch 722659

722666 Academic Excellence in a Community of Faith

722693 1200 West Washington Street, Springfield, IL 62702 • 217.787.1595 • www.shg.org Sunday, February 26, 2012 THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Springfield, Illinois Page 23

For the fourth year in a row, Sen. Larry Area Association of Realtors in sales volume, own words: “I’m very lucky to be able to work in Bomke is our readers' pick for Best Politician. having finished in the top 2% of all area agents such a wonderful district that gives teachers, After 17 years as state Senator, Bomke said that in 2007. parents, and students the opportunity to grow he wanted to thank everyone who has shown Killebrew was in the top 3% of 900 agents in in many positive ways. My goal as a teacher is their support of his efforts to be a presence in the Capital Area Association of Realtors in for all of my students to always try to do their the communities he serves. 2005, and in 2007 was the first local Realtor to best and for them to be positive; always “It has truly been an honor to represent the ever receive the Capital Area Association of thinking that they can do whatever task is in people of the 50th District,” Sen. Bomke said. Realtors Rising Star Award. This award is voted front of them.” “Dedication to my district has been one of my on by the association Board of Directors for objectives and I sincerely hope this is one of the accomplishments in the real estate business as SECOND PLACE: Mary Bennett, Glenwood impressions I leave behind. In the course of several well as enthusiasm and participation with the Elementary hundred parades, countless pancake and Capital Area Association. THIRD PLACE: Jim Steinwert, Springfield sausage breakfasts, chicken dinners, homecomings With Kyle Killebrew as the leader, Sarah High School and numerous community events, I made many Grussenmeyer as buyers’ agent/Realtor, Laura friends who became much more than political Menke as listing coordinator/Realtor and Thao allies. My success is largely attributed to the Le as office administrator, this driven team Best TV people who stood behind me over the years. works together to provide exceptional service to Personality This group includes, first and foremost, my their clients. By treating each client as an individual family, as well as my legislative staff, Cathy with unique needs, they build genuine relationships READERS’ CHOICE: Gus Scaife and Lori Bottrell and without a doubt, the that last beyond every transaction. Gordon, Channel 20 most dedicated and hardworking volunteers I SECOND PLACE: Jerry have ever known. It is very humbling to be SECOND PLACE: Fritz Pfister, Remax Lambert, Channel 20 recognized as the best, but I believe it happened THIRD PLACE: Cindi Kruse, The Real Estate THIRD PLACE: Joe because I had the best of the best behind me all Group Crain, Channel 20 the way.” Best SJ-R SECOND PLACE: State Rep. Raymond Poe THIRD PLACE: Mayor J. Michael Houston Columnist

READERS’ CHOICE: Dave Best Radio Bakke Personality SECOND PLACE: Bernie Schoenburg READERS’ CHOICE: Sam Madonia, 1450 AM THIRD PLACE: Tim Landis SECOND PLACE: Jim Leach, WMAY THIRD PLACE: Ray Lytle Best Real Estate Best Sports Agent Reporter

READERS’ CHOICE: Kyle Killebrew, The Real READERS’ CHOICE: Jim

Estate Group Ruppert 722670 Category: Best Real Estate Agent SECOND PLACE: John Business Name: Kyle Killebrew Real Estate Supine Voted #1 Flower Shop Fresh Flowers Daily Team - The Real Estate Group THIRD PLACE: Dave Kane Silk Arrangements Business Phone: 787-7000 Green Plants Hours: Flexible Thank You! DELIVERY EVERYWHERE Website: kylesells.com 1-800-923-3200 Owner: Kyle Killebrew Best Teacher Fifth Street Flower Shop Monday Thru Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Number of Employees: 3 team members 739 South 5th • Springfield Saturday 8:00 am - 12 noon Years of Operation: 7 years READERS’ CHOICE: Stephanie Young, www.fifthstreetflowershop.com Serving Springfield Location: 3701 W. Wabash Chatham Elementary Since 1929

In business since 2003, Kyle Killebrew Real The Readers’ Choice award for Best Teacher Estate Team has helped over 800 families with goes to Lincoln Land and UIS graduate the sale or purchase of a home. It is one of the Stephanie Young, a third-year second grade 722664 fastest growing real estate teams in the Capital teacher at Chatham Elementary School. In her Page 24 Springfield, Illinois THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Sunday, February 26, 2012 FUN Best Bingo READERS’ CHOICE: Caritas Hall Best Bar SECOND PLACE: Victory Hall THIRD PLACE: VFW READERS’ CHOICE: The Corner Pub and Grill Best Casino SECOND PLACE: Floyds Thirst Parlor READERS’ CHOICE: Par-A-Dice Hotel THIRD PLACE: Brickhouse & Casino SECOND PLACE: Alton Belle Best Bed and THIRD PLACE: Lumiere Place Breakfast Best Community The Corner Pub & Grill READERS’ CHOICE: Inn at 835 Event Best bar: SECOND PLACE: Pasfield House FOURTH PLACE: Branson House READERS’ CHOICE: First Night Category: Best Event Facility SECOND PLACE: Old Capitol Art Fair Business Name: Prairie Capital Convention THIRD PLACE: Old Capitol Blues and BBQ Center Best Child- City: Springfield Friendly Place Business Phone: 788-8800 Best Event Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. M-F READERS’ CHOICE: Chuck E. Cheese’s Facility Website: springfieldpccc.com SECOND PLACE: Washington Park Number of Employees: 36 THIRD PLACE: Southwind Park READERS’ CHOICE: Prairie Capital Conven- Years of Operation: Opened in 1979 Best bed and Breakfast: tion Center Location: 1 Convention Center Plaza The Inn at 835

✰ ✰ ✰ Kevin “Sure Shot” Timoney ✰ ✰ Your friends and colleagues at ✰ R.W. Troxell & Company ✰ ✰ ✰ ✰ ✰ ✰ ✰ ✰ Congratulate✰ ✰ ZPV
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722661 Sunday, February 26, 2012 THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Springfield, Illinois Page 25

The Prairie Capital Convention Center dramatic elevation changes, eye-catching prairie opened in 1979 and over the years has hosted grass plantings and large, undulating greens some of the biggest names in the entertainment have won Piper Glen golf course accolade after industry. Former acts include Elton John, Cher, accolade since its opening - including this, its Aerosmith, Kenny Chesney, George Strait, KISS, fifth Readers’ Choice top finish in a row. WWE, Disney, Blue Collar Comedy Tour, Designed by Chicago native architect Bob Metallica, Jeff Dunham, Blue Man Group, Lohmann, who received the Board Room Ringling Brothers, Harlem Globetrotters and Magazine’s 2002 Golf Course Architect of the many more. Year award, Piper Glen was named the top In addition, the PCCC hosts a variety of course in central Illinois by Illinois Magazine conventions, trade shows and meetings totaling and cited as a 4-1/2 star facility by Golf Digest, approximately 230-250 event days per year. which also named it to its Top 50 under $50. Though several hours away, the course draws a SECOND PLACE: Hoogland Center for the considerable clientele from the Chicagoland area. Arts THIRD PLACE: Inn at 835 SECOND PLACE: Long Bridge Golf Course THIRD PLACE: Bunn Park Favorite Best Live Weekend Activity Entertainment

READERS’ CHOICE: Movies READERS’ CHOICE: Donnie B's Comedy Club SECOND PLACE: Boating Category: Best Live Entertainment THIRD PLACE: Golf Business Name: Donnie B’s Comedy Club Best local team to watch: Sacred Heart-Griffin High School City: Springfield Best Golf Course Business Phone: 391-5653 Hours: Shows at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Friday Best Place for Best Local Team READERS’ CHOICE: Piper Glen Golf Course and Saturday Category: Best Golf Course Website: funnybonecomedyclub.com Live Music to Watch Business Name: Springfield Piper Glen Golf Number of Employees: 16 Club Years of Operation: 12½ years READERS’ CHOICE: Marly’s Pub READERS’ CHOICE: Sacred Heart-Griffin City: Springfield Location: 2937 West White Oaks Drive SECOND PLACE: The Curve Inn High School Business Phone: 483-6537 THIRD PLACE: Lime Street Cafe Category: Best Local Team to Watch Hours: 7:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. A local fixture for 13 years, Donnie B’s brings Business Name: Sacred Heart-Griffin High School Website: piperglen.com in top acts from all over the country, including City: Springfield Owner: David Impastato Kevin Pollock, Jamie Kennedy, Tom Arnold, Best Local Business Phone: 787-1595 Number of Employees: 34 Pauly Shore, Louie Anderson, Carlos Mencia, Band/Musician Website: shg.org Years of Operation: 16 years David Koechner and Norm McDonald. Owners: Sponsored by the Dominican Sisters Location: 7112 Piper Glen Drive READERS’ CHOICE: Still Kick’n of Springfield, IL. SECOND PLACE: Illinois State Fair SECOND PLACE: Hipbone Sam Number of Employees: 100 Reasonable greens fees and a layout with THIRD PLACE: Hoogland Center for the Arts THIRD PLACE: Kung Fu Dynamite Years of Operation: Since 1895

Intellectual Child’s Play - Every Day Intellectual Child’s Play - Every Day

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• Pre-math, Writing & Reading • Problem Solving • Social, Emotional & Developmental • Balance & Team Work • Self-expression & Creativity • Listening Skills • Fine & Gross Motor • Spanish, ASL, Music & Movement, Computer Lab • All included with weeks tuition • Family Focus Philosophy • Licensed, Certified, Experienced Staff • Secure Facility • park-Like, Fenced Playgrounds • Ongoing education for staff • Flexible Hours, Open until 11:45 p.m.

Serving infants and children 6 weeks to 6 years

West Campus South Campus 805 Chatham Rd 770 Apple Orchard 217-698-8877 217-528-8028 Devi Harper, Owner Brenda Lothman, Director Jodi Garrett, Director Intellectual Child’s Play - Every Day Intellectual Child’s 722658 722660 Intellectual Child’s Play - Every Day Intellectual Child’s Play - Every Day Page 26 Springfield, Illinois THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Sunday, February 26, 2012 Location: 1200 W. Washington St.; West men and women. Each year, a large number of Best Morning Best Place to Campus, formerly Griffin High School, is at these students are successful in competition as 1601 W. Washington St. National Merit Scholars, Illinois State Scholars, Radio Station People Watch state-bound individual athletes and athletic In 1873 a group of Dominican Sisters from teams as well as recipients of numerous awards READERS’ CHOICE: WFMB, 104.5 FM READERS’ CHOICE: White Oaks Mall Kentucky, who had first settled in Jacksonville, in such disciplines as mathematics, science, lan- SECOND PLACE: Sports Radio, 1450AM SECOND PLACE: Illinois State Fair moved their Motherhouse to Springfield. In guage and the arts. THIRD PLACE: WDBR, THIRD PLACE: Washington 1895, they established Sacred Heart Academy. SHG continues to look ahead and plan for the 103.7 FM Park In 1930, Bishop James A. Griffin announced future to ensure that a quality, secondary the opening of Cathedral Boys High School, Catholic education is available to those who administered by the Clerics of St. Viator. With wish to be a part of the tradition that is SHG. Best Place Best Pool the leadership of Bishop William A. O’Connor, for a Hall in 1959, a new high school for boys, known as SECOND PLACE: Chatham Glenwood Griffin High School, was constructed. THIRD PLACE: Springfield Sliders Baseball First Date READERS’ CHOICE: Mowie’s Cue It was GHS that began the tradition of the SECOND PLACE: Starship Billiards Mostaccioli Dinner. On Sunday, March 4, the Best Local READERS’ CHOICE: AMC Theatres SECOND PLACE: The Doghouse 53rd annual Mostaccioli Dinner will be celebrated SECOND PLACE: Washington Park at SHG’s newly renovated West Campus. Website THIRD PLACE: Bella Milano In the fall of 1988, SHA and GHS combined Best Resale their spiritual, academic and financial resources READERS’ CHOICE: SJ-R.com Best Place Shop to form one institution under the sponsorship of SECOND PLACE: springfieldmoms.org the Dominican Sisters of Springfield: Sacred THIRD PLACE: freecycle.org Karaoke READERS’ CHOICE: Land of Lincoln Good- Heart-Griffin High School. These changes have will Industries continued to strengthen our core message, READERS’ CHOICE: Sluggo's Category: Best Resale Shop which is “Academic Excellence in a Community SECOND PLACE: Billy's Bar Business Name: Land of Lincoln Goodwill of Faith.” THIRD PLACE: Blue Grouch Industries Today the enrollment stands at 773 young ■ Continued on page 28

Dave Bakke Jim Ruppert 022220121502 Best SJ-R Columnist Best Sports Reporter

SJ-R Media reaches 80% of adults in Sangamon and Menard counties. Source: The Media Audiot, fall 2011 722686 Page 28 Springfield, Illinois THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Sunday, February 26, 2012

■ From page 26 Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. M-F or by rental Website: springfieldparks.org or www.south- City: Springfield the Illinois windpark.org Business Phone: 789-0400 State Fair Owners: Springfield Park District Hours: 2001 W. Wabash and 2531 N. Dirk- Number of Employees: 8 sen: 9 a.m.-7 p.m. M-S; Noon-6 p.m. Sun. Years of Operation: 2 (1 year 9 months) 815 N. 11th: 8 a.m.-4:20 p.m. M-S; Noon-5 Location: 4965 S. 2nd St. p.m. Sun. Website: llgi.org Erin’s Pavilion is a premiere 5,000-square-foot President & CEO: Sharon Durbin rental facility located inside gorgeous, 80-acre Number of Employees: 311 state-of-the-art Southwind Park. Erin’s Pavilion’s Years of Operation: 74 years facility is both beautiful and functional, exceeding full compliance with the accessibility Land of Lincoln Goodwill Industries, Inc., is a standards of the Americans with Disabilities 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that serves a Act. It can accommodate up to 350 guests and wide array of persons with special needs in the offers friendly, personal service. community. The organization was founded in residential setting possible, and to reach their Thing to do at 1938 in a storefront building on East Washington highest level of vocational potential in the SECOND PLACE: Inn at 835 Street and moved to its present location of 800 community. These programs are funded through the State Fair THIRD PLACE: Northfield Inn Suites & North 10th Street in 1965. Its service area retail store sales. More than 85 % of retail store Conference Center consists of 37 counties in Central Illinois and 4 sales are used to support our mission. READERS’ CHOICE: Eat counties in Indiana. The Administrative Office SECOND PLACE: People Watch and several of the organization’s programs are SECOND PLACE: Remarkable Resale THIRD PLACE: Concerts housed at 1220 Outer Park Drive, Springfield. In SECOND PLACE: Cedar Chest addition, it has programs at 800 North 10th Best TV Show Street and retail stores/warehouses on 11th Best Shopping Street, Wabash Avenue and Dirksen Parkway in READERS’ CHOICE: “NCIS” Springfield, as well as stores in Bloomington, READERS’ CHOICE: White Oaks Mall SECOND PLACE: “Modern Family” Champaign, Chatham, Danville, Effingham, Category: Best Shopping THIRD PLACE: “Revenge ” Jacksonville and Lincoln. Attended donation Business Name: White Oaks Mall sires are located in Springfield and Savoy. City: Springfield Goodwill’s mission is to empower people with Business Phone: 787-0110 Best Place for a special needs to become self-sufficient through Website: simon.com/whiteoaks Wedding the power of work. The purpose of the organization Owner: Simon Property Group is to provide vocational rehabilitation and Number of Employees: 25 Reception community employment to persons with mental, Years of Operation: 33 years emotional and physical disabilities, as well as READERS’ CHOICE: Erin’s Pavillion other barriers to employment in the LLGI Like us on Facebook at shopwhiteoaks to keep Category: Best Place for a Wedding Reception service area. Through the development of adequate up on the renovation from old to bold. Business Name: Erin's Pavilion at Southwind personal, social and vocational skills at LLGI, Park persons with barriers to employment are given SECOND PLACE: Kohl’s City: Springfield the opportunity to live in the least restrictive THIRD PLACE: Wal-Mart Business Phone: 753-0702

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Springfield Accident & Pain Center 2035 W. Iles Suite A • Springfield, IL Dr. Jared Kennedy 217-787-9100 723061 722701 Sunday, February 26, 2012 THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Springfield, Illinois Page 29 Best Weekend repeat champion in the Best Local Blogs category. SECOND PLACE: Blessed by Brenna From an original e-mail newsletter and website THIRD PLACE: Capitol Fax Trip link to 30 area mothers, the site has grown to include a staff of four and is the go-to website Best Church READERS’ CHOICE: St. Louis, Mo. for local families for area events, coupons and SECOND PLACE: Chicago, Ill. parenting information. In addition to a website READERS’ CHOICE: West Side Christian THIRD PLACE: Galena, Ill. averaging 11,000 unique monthly visitors, Church Springfield Moms has more than 2,200 Facebook SECOND PLACE: Blessed Sacrament Catholic fans (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Spring- Church fieldmomsorg/109470650630?ref=ts), more THIRD PLACE: Cathedral of the Immaculate than 700 followers of @springfieldmoms on Conception LIFESTYLE Twitter and e-mail newsletters reaching more than 4,000 readers. Best Country Best Local Blog The site includes popular subsections, including an events calendar, summer camp directory, and Club READERS’ CHOICE: SpringfieldMoms.org “Kids Eat Free Dining Guide”. Content provided Category: Best Local Blog by local volunteer writers and site sponsors are READERS’ CHOICE: Illini Country Club Business Name: Springfield Moms findable under the A-Z index on a variety of SECOND PLACE: Panther Creek Country Club City: Springfield topics ranging from “Baby Corner” to indoor THIRD PLACE: Island Bay Yacht Club Business Phone: 622-6966 water parks to “In the Kitchen” recipe recom- Website: www.springfieldmoms.org mendations to teens going off to college. Owners: Kim Leistner Springfield Moms’ free bi-weekly e-Updates Best Day Spa Number of Employees: 4 highlight what’s new on the website, showcasing READERS CHOICE: BJ Grand Salon & Spa Years of Operation: 7 years articles, updated directories, coupon links and SECOND PLACE: Appearances Location: 2915 Cronin Drive event reminders. Founder and President Kim SECOND PLACE: KM Hair Works & Spa M. Leistner still runs the show and looks forward It’s no surprise that Springfield Moms is a to continuing to serve the area.

The Animal Protective League . . . making the community better for animals and people!

Thank you Look What APL Has Done With Your Help... for naming APL as • Continue to help reduce the • Distribute over 7,000 lbs of pet the 2nd Place Winner euthanasia rate of cats & dogs in food to 466 families in need of Best Local Sangamon County. It has dropped Charity! • Provide over 4,588 free pit bull by 19% in the last six years surgeries • Adopt over 1,500 animals yearly 1001 Taintor Road • Springfield, IL • Recognized as one of the top North of Illinois State Fairgrounds • Perform over 56,000 spay/ neuter 10 producing spay/neuter clinics surgeries at our high-quality, low- funded by PetSmart Charities Noon to 5 p.m. daily cost clinic since opening in 2006 • 98 cents of every dollar donated 217/544-PETS (7387) www.apl-shelter.org • Save taxpayers money by caring goes directly to animal care; the

for animals at our private facility national average is 88 cents Paid for by friends of APL 723073 Page 30 Springfield, Illinois THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Sunday, February 26, 2012 Best Deals Dining, dancing, golf, performances, shopping r.com/dailydeals to receive e-mail notifications Eyes” tells Lincoln's story through the eyes of an and more … all at 50% off! You can find great of our available deals. Also find out about Daily artist painting his portrait, and The Holavision® READERS CHOICE: SJ-R Daily Deals discounted deals from local merchants online in the Deals on our Facebook page: Greater Springfield Theater’s “Ghosts of the Library” presentation Category: Best Deals State Journal-Register’s Daily Deals program. Try Daily Deals. To purchase a deal, you buy it explains the importance of historic scholarship Business Name: The State Journal-Register new places or visit your favorites without breaking directly online with a credit or debit card in just and preservation in a dynamic event that includes City: Springfield the bank. Daily Deals started in August of 2011 and a few simple steps. Print your certificate and holograms, live actors, strobe lighting and Website: greaterspringfielddailydeals.com since then we have become the center for showcasing redeem it with the merchant. It is that simple! exciting effects. local businesses and their great products and services. Daily Deals are only available online from Daily The Library side of the institution contains The key to getting these great deals is to hop Deals and cannot be purchased through the more than 12 million items pertaining to all on them early! Many deals have limited quantities merchant. Right now, earn a free deal for aspects of Illinois history, including the world’s and are offered only for a short length of time. yourself when you refer three of your friends largest collection of original Lincoln materials. Here’s how it works: sign up at www.sj- who buy the same deal. Thank you to all the merchants who have partnered with us. We look SECOND PLACE: Abraham Lincoln’s Home forward to bringing central Illinois more deals THIRD PLACE: Lincoln’s New Salem Local and saving a few bucks! Thanks for voting us #1!!! Head, shoulders, SECOND PLACE: Land of Lincoln Goodwill News Industries knees and toes. my way THIRD PLACE: Dollar Tree • Breaking News Best Fitness • E-mail Headlines Center • Mobile • Blogs READERS’ CHOICE: Fit Club • SO Magazine SECOND PLACE: YMCA • Reader Photo THIRD PLACE: Snap Fitness Galleries • Best Local Best Lake Club READERS’ CHOICE: Firefighters/Postal Lake Club Historic Site Category: Best Lake Club Business Name: Firefighters/Postal Lake READERS’ CHOICE: Abraham Lincoln Presi- Club dential Library and Museum City: Springfield Category: Best Historic Site Business Phone: 529-0755 Business Name: Abraham Lincoln Presiden- Website: firefighterspostal.weebly.com tial Library and Museum Years of Operation: opened in 2003 City: Springfield Location: 940 West Lake Shore Drive Thank you for voting for Business Phone: 558-8934 Website: www.presidentlincoln.org Replacing the 62-year-old postal club, BJ Grand Salon & Spa! Owners: State of Illinois Firefighters and Postal members formed the Number of Employees: 80 new club in 2003. Our members pride them- We strive to make your whole body happy. One visit Years of Operation: 7 years selves on having the most beautiful club on Lake here and you’ll soon discover what makes us different. Location: 112-212 N. Sixth Street, Springfield Springfield. Restored to the look of an old fire- World-class hair design, innovative coloring techniques, house, the club faces Lake Shore Drive. With highly skilled estheticians and luxurious products all Opened in 2005, the ALPLM presents an ample parking, our spacious hall is available for combine to offer you the best experience possible. immersive experience that takes visitors back to renting for any of your corporate or family Begin a beautiful journey with us. Lincoln’s world and time. Its combination of events. scholarship and showmanship makes it the We have a beautiful and spacious bar over- nation’s most popular presidential center. looking Lake Springfield, a large patio, band- Journeying from a rustic cabin to the Executive stand and pavilion, which enhance the appear- Mansion, visitors experience the joys and ance of our club for our members and guests to sorrows of the country and the Lincoln family. enjoy. We look forward to seeing all of you at The Museum’s more than 40,000 square feet our fish fries, chicken fries and other events. of exhibit space include the goose-bump-inducing B_aX]VÁT[S“2WP\_PXV]“QYVaP]SbP[^]R^\“ Treasures Gallery and lifelike figures and scenes. SECOND PLACE: Island Bay Yacht Club The multi-screen, multi-stage, special-effects- THIRD PLACE: Springfield Motor Boat Club 722550 laden Union Theater presentation “Lincoln’s Sunday, February 26, 2012 THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER/READERS’ CHOICE 2011 Springfield, Illinois Page 31 Best Local to expand to a 120-bed shelter that includes They continue to be the go-to place for clothes, and light switch covers, and nearly anything else rooms for families, expanded health care, a larger decals and stickers, posters and tapestries, incense that comes to mind. Charity food pantry, a youth center (including tutoring and perfume, jewelry of all kinds, purses and and various educational programs), a new bags, hats, blankets, door beads, drip candles, SECOND PLACE: The Capitol Building READERS’ CHOICE: Salvation Army chapel and room to grow. crystals, figurines and home décor, coaster sets THIRD PLACE: J. Parson’s Category: Best Local Charity A consistent top finisher in our Readers’ Choice Business Name: The Salvation Army Awards, The Salvation Army strives to help the home- City: Springfield less, hungry and addicted by helping change lives. Business Phone: 525-2196 Thank You Website: tsaspringfield.org; tsarestoration.org SECOND PLACE: Animal Protective League Number of Employees: 14 THIRD PLACE: Catholic Charities Years of Operation: 126 years Springfield Location: 530 N. 6th St. Strangest Place and All the SJ-R Voters for Making Us According to their website, in 2010, the latest year for in Springfield which numbers were available, the Salvation Army in Sangamon County provided 16,670 people with gro- READERS’ CHOICE: Penny Lane ceries for everyone in their household, 14,600 meals for Category: Strangest Place in Springfield #1#1 BestBest Chiropractor the hungry, overnight shelter for 40 people every day of Business Name: Penny Lane For The 4th Year! the year, and hundreds of clothing vouchers and people City: Springfield served by rehabilitation and recovery programs. Business Phone: 787-2996 & The Nutrition Center The Salvation Army started in 1865 in Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Mon-Sat; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday REID CHIROPRACTIC London and continues in more than 120 Website: Pennylanegifts.com & The Nutrition Center countries. In Springfield, The Salvation Army Owners: Joe Utterback && The Nutrition Center has been serving Sangamon County for more Number of Employees: 14 “Your loyalty and friendship are reward than 125 years with programs including a food Years of Operation: since 1971 enough,“Your loyalty but the and honor friendship of being are recog- reward pantry, free health clinics, 24/7 emergency Location: 2091 S. MacArthur nizedenough, for but helping the honor others of is being certainly recog- one shelter for both men and women, an adult nized for helping others is certainly one rehabilitation center, weekly youth programs It’s hard to say whether Penny Lane is more I’m grateful for, and will always strive for children of all ages, an emergency canteen famous for its tie dye, its black lights, its posters toI’m improve gratefulon.” for, and will always strive Thankto improve you! on.” for local purposes, senior programs, Bible studies, or its T-shirts. A Springfield mainstay for more Sunday school, weekly worship services, nursing than 40 years, the store has relocated, expanded, Thank- Dr. Chrisyou! Reid home programs, and Christmas assistance to and updated its well-known outside murals - Dr. Chris Reid those in need. They are looking ahead to a new while growing to include online shopping and to 2920 Chatham Rd., Suite A, Springfield 723069 building project at 100 N. 9th Street, with plans reflect more recent trends like body jewelry. 217-698-5800 • www.ReidFamilyWellness.com CONGRATULATIONS! Readers’ Choice Award winner for BEST DEALS GreaterSpringfield DailyDeals dailydeals.sj-r.com

at restaurants, spas, Save 50-80% stores and entertainment FREE registration. Hop on in. 722536 723067