BEST ACTIVIST CHURCH LEADER
Rev. Msgnr. John Ossola Little Flower Catholic School The Rev. Monsignor John Ossola wouldn’t call himself an “activist,” he says, nor does he consider himself a leader – but isn’t that what humble people always say? Serving the Church of the Little Flower and the church’s nearby school, Ossola often works with youth and has directed the diocese’s anti-abortion office, earning him the title of “best activist church leader” from IT readers. A member of the clergy for 45 years, Ossola enjoys counseling his parishioners in times of need. “I enjoy dealing with people at pivotal times in their lives,” Ossola says. “It’s so growthfulfilling for them.”
Runner-up: John Wentz of South Side Christian Church

HARDEST WORKING LOCAL BUSINESS OWNER
Unverzagt Family Chiropractic 1329 S. Fourth St., 544-3628 Not much can ruin a relaxing weekend as easily as back pain. That’s why Stephen C. Unverzagt is happy to swing by his chiropractic clinic even after hours or on weekends to give the occasional back adjustment. Chosen by IT readers as the hardest working local business owner in Springfield, Unverzagt offers treatment for all sorts of back, neck and joint pain, as well as sports rehab, nutrition counseling and more. His comfortable office feels like a home, and his warm family is always there to make you feel welcome. He especially likes proving to suffering skeptics that chiropractic care really works. “Everyone that has come to us has stayed,” he says. And if that’s not enough, the recentlyadded massage therapist should have you back on your feet in no time.
Runner-up: Tracey Sims - TurnOut Movement Arts Studio

WILD CARD – BEST CHIROPRACTOR
Stephen Unverzagt The wild card is the peoples’ category: you told us what “best of” we missed. Stephen Unverzagt staged a write-in campaign for Best Chiropractor on Facebook, and his eager clients were more than happy to nominate him. One satisfied customer says, “Stephen Unverzagt is the best chiropractor ever….He is so good that none of my ‘old’ aches and pains hurt anymore.” Unverzagt says almost all of his clients are referrals from other clients, which just goes to show that a job well done is its own advertisement. In business since June, Unverzagt says he is glad to be serving Springfield, and he enjoys making clients feel comfortable and pain-free.
Wild Card Runner-up: Best Sandwich – Head West Sub Stop