BEST GARBAGE HAULER

Lake Area Disposal

2106 E. Cornell Ave., 522-9317

Where did the Lone Ranger take Tonto? Cue up the William Tell Overture: Ta-da-dump, ta-da-dump, ta-da-dump, dump dump. Let’s face it, garbage all ends up at the same place, it’s how the journey is made that counts. While Lake Area Disposal stops short of putting your trash on velvet pillows before placing it gently, gently on the heap at the landfill, they do treat their customers right, according to readers who raved about Lake Area going the extra mile by walking up to garages to fetch cans for the forgetful and thanking customers with cards during the holidays. The company founded in 1932 also gets kudos for low prices and reliability. And they’re locally owned, so they know Springfield garbage better than anyone.

Runner-up: Allied Waste