BEST DANCE STUDIO

Springfield Dance

5531 International Pkwy, 483-3623

Since first opening the doors 22 years ago, Springfield Dance has produced a myriad of talented dancers who have gone on to experience fulfilling professional careers and a lifelong love of dance. Springfield Dance has grown immensely since founder Rhonda Brinkman began operations out of a small strip mall in 1995. The studio’s enrollment quickly doubled during that first year of business and tripled soon thereafter, which prompted the decision to build the current studio. Today, Springfield Dance is located on International Parkway, just southwest of the Wabash exit for I-72, making the studio easily accessible from both the highway and county roads. The 5,000-square-foot building boasts four dance studios, two dressing rooms, two bathrooms and two waiting areas. For more information about Springfield Dance, including a schedule of classes available to toddlers, children and adults, visit http:// springfielddance.com.

Finalists: Dance Arts Studio Inc., Dance Creations Dance Studio, Jan’s Dance Studio, Studio M Dance Centre ___________________________________

BEST DAYCARE

Silverleaf Children’s Academy

207 S. Walnut, Rochester; 3220 Pleasant Run, Springfi eld; 2715 S. Fourth St., Springfi eld; 679- 2029

Now operating out of three convenient locations in Springfield and Rochester, it is easy to see why IT readers chose the Silverleaf Children’s Academy as Springfield’s best daycare. The Silverleaf Children’s Academy was founded in Rochester in 2005, expanded to Springfield’s west side in 2009 and eventually expanded to an additional Springfield location in 2012. The Academy prides itself on “providing excellence through environment, experience and education” for infants through school-age children. This is accomplished by maintaining a highly qualified teaching staff, an academic curriculum that includes Spanish lessons, sign language and literacy, personalized care and small class sizes, a private parent-staff communication line that features text and photo messaging, and healthy meals that feature organic milk plus fresh fruits and vegetables. For more information about the Silverleaf Children’s Academy, including an online enrollment form, visit http:// silverleafchildrensacademy.com.

Finalists: Lake Shore Learning Center, My Friends Discovery Center, Pleasant Park Child Development Center, First Impressions Day Care ___________________________________

BEST AUTUMN / FALL FAMILY ATTRACTION

Bomke’s Patch

605 Country Lake Rd., 341-4905

It’s not just about Christmas trees! Our readers chose Bomke’s Patch as the best destination for fun during the season of changing leaves and cooler temperatures. And with acres of pumpkins and gourds to choose from (you can get yours from a curated selection or clip one straight off the vine) a corn/bean maze, wagon rides, a petting zoo, play and education areas for children, a foam party and a trick-or-treat maze, who can blame them? All patch visitors receive a complimentary bag of popcorn, a warm drink, and complimentary digital family photo, adding up to general autumn awesomeness and fall frolics.

Finalists: Apple Barn, Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular at Washington Park, New Salem State Historic Site, Lincoln Memorial Garden Indian Summer Festival ___________________________________

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD FOR 20 SOMETHINGS

Downtown

When our readers are in the mood to listen to the music of the traffic in the city – or perhaps linger on the sidewalk where the neon signs are pretty – nowhere beats downtown (even if nobody currently in their 20s knows Petula Clark from Nancy Sinatra). With a variety of bars and restaurants, festivals and other events in the warmer months, as well as housing for UIS grad students, how can you lose? Things’ll be great when you’re downtown.

Finalists: Historic West Side, Sherwood, Enos Park

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BEST CHARITY EVENT AND BEST LOCAL FOOT RACE

Fat Ass 5K and Street Party

Where fattening food, charitable fundraising, putative physical exercise and shocking double-entendre t-shirt slogans come together! The Fat Ass 5K and Street Party recently had its 10th anniversary. It’s described on its website as “a professionally timed 5K race through downtown Springfield.” But unlike most such races, there are “corn dog, donut and ice cream stops along with live music and entertainment throughout the race route...followed by a street party that includes cold Pepsi, Coors beer, barbecue and more live music.” Another big distinction: all profits (over $1 million since 2008) are given to charitable organizations such as the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Alport Syndrome Foundation, Mini O’Bierne Crisis Nursery, St. Patrick’s School, Operation Smile, Camp Coco and SPARC Summer Camp.

Finalists: Charity Event: Festival of Trees, Paint the Streets, Legacy of Giving, Making Strides Walk Finalists: Foot race: Abe’s Amble, Girls on the Run 5k, Lincoln Memorial Garden Trail Run, Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon

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BEST CONSIGNMENT/ SECONDHAND STORE

Second Time Around

2440 Denver Drive, 744-7873

If you are hardcore, you look for the nastiest junk stores on the face of the earth – the ones without air conditioning or heat, with sagging roofs and horrible smells and trip hazards. You might find, nestled under cat litter boxes or garbage bags stuffed with underwear, a pair of brand-new socks for 50 cents, and so walk away happy. Not everyone enjoys this sort of hobby, and for folks who have better things to do with their time, there is Second Time Around. Selling only women’s clothing with a focus on the working professional, the place is spotless. You’ll pay a fraction more than at an anything-goes thrift store (and a lot less than at a mall), but all the work has been done for you, with clothing sorted by size and color. It’s name brand and current – think dresses from The Limited or Lucky jeans – and there are sizes to fit most every shape. And you can make a few bucks yourself if you no longer need that wedding dress or decide that the blouse you bought really doesn’t go with those shoes from last season. Just bring it in and let Second Time Around sell it for you.

Finalists: Once Upon A Child; Land of Lincoln Goodwill Industries; Clothes Mentor; Plato’s Closet

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BEST MORNING RADIO SHOW

Dave and Dina – 101.9 FM the Wolf

Holding down the morning shift at the home of “fresh country music for Springfield, and a whole lot of it,” (per 101.9 the Wolf’s Facebook page, anyway) our readers can’t seem to get enough of the personable, down home repartee of veteran broadcasters Dave Daniels and Dina Michaels. Dave, who has worked in Springfield radio for 14 years, is also program coordinator for the Children’s Miracle Network at St. John’s Children’s Hospital. Dina is originally from St. Louis, but has been in Springfield for over 10 years and in addition to the morning show, also hosts the nine-tonoon slot.

Finalists: Lynch and Liz - 100.5 FM WYMG, Ray Lytle - 970 AM WMAY, Sam Madonia - WFMB AM Sports Radio, John and Heather - 104.5 FM WFMB ___________________________________

BEST REASON TO GO DOWNTOWN

Old Capitol Farmers Market

Fresh produce and a sense of community are high priorities for our readers, who can’t think of a better reason to venture downtown than to partake of the Old Capitol Farmers Market, from May until October. The longrunning open air market boasts more than 50 vendors offering products ranging from meat and poultry to fruit and vegetables to locally roasted coffee beans. The friendly, historic and picturesque downtown environment provides the ideal backdrop for eating local and supporting area farmers.

Finalists: music festivals, restaurants, Hoogland Center for the Arts, bars and nightclubs

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BEST NEW BUSINESS NOT DOWNTOWN

Pie’s the Limit

1710 S. MacArthur Blvd., 679-3846; 3429 Freedom Dr., 679-4106

If you have ever wished for a pizza equivalent of Subway or Chipotle, Pie’s the Limit has you covered. Similar to the aforementioned sandwich and burrito chains, patrons of the two recently opened Springfield PtL locations are invited to stand in line while eager employees behind a glassed-in counter build a 12-inch pizza to each customer’s precise specifications, utilizing an embarrassment of topping riches. With so many ingredient options and a quick turnaround time, Pie’s the Limit might just be both the most efficient and varied of the many area pizza options.

Finalists: Cooper’s AlleySide, Gypsy Dreamer, Oh My Dog Mobile Grooming, Page 261

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BEST STATE FAIR ATTRACTION

Grandstand Concerts

Our readers love their national touring acts – and the big names don’t get any bigger than the ones showing up year after year for the State Fair Grandstand concerts. From the hottest current country heroes to the biggest reconstituted classic rock bands (original members optional) to the latest auto-tuned pop sensations and back again, the stars can always be counted on to show up and pound the floorboards while the fans crouch happily on the muddy racetrack, absorbing the torrents of sound and charisma. Beats the Tilt-a -Whirl any day! Finalists: Live music in the beer tents, the butter cow, Conservation World, Sky Glide

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BEST WEDDING VENUE – INDOOR

Erin’s Pavilion

4965 S. Second St., 585-2941

The Springfield Park District’s Erin’s Pavilion remains one of the most environmentally progressive structures in the area. The building has been LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified by the United States Green Building Council and was built expressly to serve the needs of the disabled. The Southwind Park location ranks it among the most visually pleasing as well. It’s an understandably popular spot for nuptials as well as galas, banquets and the occasional bar mitzvah reception.

Finalists: Inn at 835, Artisan Building (Fairgrounds), Illini Country Club, Hoogland Center for the Arts

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BEST ANTIQUE/VINTAGE STORE AND BEST PLACE TO BUY HOME FURNISHINGS

Magnolia Lane

3600 S. Sixth St, 503-6513

“We have a little bit of everything!” proclaims Magnolia Lane, and our readers can’t help but agree. “Everything,” in this case, extends to furniture (much of it delivered weekly from Macy’s) as well as accessories both new and “gently used” along with some hand-painted items. Having opened its doors way back in April 2013, Magnolia Lane has had time to develop a loyal clientele and it shows.

Finalists for Antique / Vintage Store: Springfield Vintage, Abe’s Old Hat, Nickorbobs Home Décor, Recycled Cottage Finalists for Best Place to Buy Home Furnishings: Hendricks Home Furnishings, Ashley Furniture HomeStore, Barney’s Furniture, Consign & Design ___________________________________

BEST TV PERSONALITY/ REPORTER

Joe Crain

Meteorologist, NewsChannel 20

Joe Crain’s broadcast style is friendly. He comes through as genuine, and genuinely glad to be a part of this community with a pleasant demeanor and weather descriptions that celebrate or at least look forward to sunny days.

Crain’s longevity has built a broad fan base.

“The more you’re in a given place and station, the more people are familiar with you. They come to trust you, depend on you and consider you a friend,” Crain says.

“It’s really an honor when people invite you into their homes each morning as they’re getting ready for work and getting their kids ready for school, and they choose you among all the other choices out there to give them the information they need to start their day.”

The WICS website says, “Joe helps you plan for the day at work and school with the Storm Team forecast every weekday from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. during ‘Sunrise.’” Thanks for 13 years through all kinds of weather together, Joe. Congratulations!

Finalists: Stacy Shrysak - WICS; Cheryl Lemke - WICS; Jenn Sullivan - WICS; Dee Dee Gatton - WICS

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BEST MASSAGE THERAPIST

Heather Fowler

Moxie Massage 107 S. Seventh St., 725-6597

“Heather is a licensed and certified massage therapist. She has [more than] 1,500 hours of intense training in various therapeutic techniques and has regular clients in Saint Louis, Chicago and Springfield,” says the Moxie web page. “Heather is trained in Swedish, Reflexology, Shiatsu, pregnancy/ infant massage, Deep Tissue, Thai massage, Tui Na, Acupressure, among other specializations … She also is trained in providing the Moxie Facelift, something that you will not find elsewhere in Springfield.”

Fowler describes her salon as “tranquil, serene, quiet, relaxing, cozy, a hidden gem. Part of the appeal is that we are not a megasalon. It is the perfect place for you to bring your body, for healing and relaxation.”

Finalists: Gabrielle Thomas, Sheila Beebe, Becky Ishmael, Lynde Greenwald

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BEST MORTGAGE LENDER

Chris Schaller

Diamond Residential Mortgage 2921 Greenbriar Road, 726-6864

“Let’s bring you home,” opens the Diamond Residential Mortgage web page. “Becoming a homeowner is important, and we are here to make the process of securing a mortgage simple and straightforward.”

“Illinois Mortgage Man” Chris Schaller takes that seriously seven days a week. “I’m always available to answer any questions my clients may have.”

As an Army veteran, Schaller appreciates the opportunity to help other veterans achieve the dream of home ownership and wants to put them, and all of his clients, in a better financial situation now and in the future. He wants to be a resource for them, their kids, friends and coworkers in, as he says, “this community I care so much about.”

“I speak to and treat people as I would want to be treated,” says Schaller, who sends out newsletters, emails clients on birthdays and housing anniversaries, and shows clients how to pay off their mortgages more quickly. “We want them to get out of debt as quickly as possible.”

Finalists: Cindy West – UCB; Matt Seman – UCB; James Lauwerens – UCB; Jenna Rosentreter – UCB

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BEST NURSE

Angie Rinaberger

Springfi eld Clinic 2532 Farragut, 528-7541

Pediatric Nurse Angie Rinaberger puts her heart into her work. “I take the parents’ concerns for their children as if they were my own children. I love having a positive relationship with family members, especially parents, who need that positivity when their child is going through a struggle.

“And I love building trust and friendships with the children and watching them grow. I take care of newborns through high school, and in just six years I’ve already seen some who were in middle school go off to college.”

Rinaberger describes herself as very personable, and it’s this quality that won her the category this year. Congratulations Angie!

Finalists: Tiffany Perkins; Shelby Brown; Lauren Howerter; Rachel Lusk

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BEST AUTO REPAIR/ SERVICE CENTER

Wilkerson’s Service Center

2840 Stevenson Drive, 529-0292

Sometimes all the flowery words in the world are no substitute for the honest, appreciative expression of a grateful customer. Such is the case with our readers’ favorite auto repair/ service center. From yelp.com: “This is the only place I take my vehicles. I figure they have saved me thousands on repairs. I’ve gotten estimates from other shops who wanted to replace everything they could. Wilkerson’s always gives me an honest estimate with recommendations on what I may need later. They don’t repair things just because they can.” And what greater recommendation could a potential customer ask for?

Finalists: Brahler Tire and Auto, Vern’s Auto Repair, CheckPoint Tire and Service Center, Freedom Chevrolet Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram ___________________________________

BEST BARBER SHOP

Hair of the Dog Bar/Ber Shop

Everything old is new again in this selfdescribed “American traditional barbershop attached to the type of bar your grandfather would have stopped into on his way home.” A throwback to the grand old days when America was already great, thank you, and no one even blinked in recognition regardless of how brazen a pun you used in the name of your business. As one satisfied customer wrote on Facebook, “If you are a man & have not been here yet, you are missing out. If you are a female, find a man & bring him here.”

Finalists: Dukett’s Barber Shop, Jones’ Chop Shop, Beggs Barber Shop, Precision Barbers

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BEST CHILDREN’S CLOTHING STORE

Once Upon a Child

4225 Wabash, Ave., 679-7134

If “saving money on children’s clothes, shoes, toys and baby gear” is your priority ( it is for our readers), Once Upon a Child is the place to go. “We focus on quality, safety, and value – the same things you feel important for your own families,” says their Facebook page. Customers have great things to say, along the lines of, “I have never in my life walked into a business where I have felt so welcomed! From start to finish, the professionalism never once stopped! These employees work very hard and they always had a smile on their face.”

Finalists: Gypsy Tribe, The Children’s Place, Just Kids

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BEST CLOTHING BOUTIQUE BEST PLACE TO GO FOR A LAST-MINUTE GIFT

Gypsy Soul

Self-identified on its Facebook page as “a unique store that is always changing,” Gypsy Soul can be counted on for a welcoming and pleasantly eclectic funky vibe, regardless of what the inventory consists of on the day you visit. An out-of-town customer agreed with our readers about the high quality of the place and its staff: “I found that the ladies were very patient, kind and accommodating. It was a fabulous experience.”

Finalists for Best Clothing Boutique: District 23, Eye Candy, Springfield Vintage, The Wardrobe Finalists for Best Place to go for a Last-Minute Gift: District 23, The Cardologist, J. Parkes Ltd., Simply Fair

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BEST CREDIT UNION

Heartland Credit Union

2213 W White Oaks Dr., 726-8877

“They offer so many electronic products that I am not able to find anywhere else,” gushes one online review, helping explain the popularity of Heartland Credit Union among our readers. Founded in 1946, Heartland describes itself as a “hometown institution offering complete member services for every financial need, large or small.” With more than 24,000 members and four Springfieldarea locations, Heartland is nothing if not accessible. And not just in person. “Being able to deposit my checks remotely via the mobile app is so convenient,” continued that same online fan. Sign us up!

Finalists: CEFCU, Illinois Educators Credit Union, Illinois State Police Credit Union

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BEST FLOWER SHOP

Fifth Street Flower Shop

739 S. Fifth St., 522-3334

Self-described on its website as “offering only the finest floral arrangements and gifts, backed by service that is friendly and prompt,” Fifth Street Flower Shop proved the favorite among our readers. “We always go the extra mile to make your floral gift perfect,” the website continues. But don’t just take their word for it. “I have done business with Fifth Street Flower Shop multiple times,” says one typical online review. “Thank you Fifth Street Flower Shop for the beautiful arrangement, put together and in time.”

Finalists: Flowers by Mary Lou, Trendsetters, Petals & Co.

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BEST GARDEN CENTER

Apple Barn

2290 E Walnut St., Chatham, 483-6236

“Very reasonably priced and probably the best damn pie I have ever had in my life.” Sometimes a one-sentence online review says everything that needs to be said. Our readers appear to concur, crowning this family business in Chatham as their favorite. Indeed, Apple Barn is a veritable one-stop shop for baked goods, local meat, fresh produce, fruits and vegetables.

Finalists: Green View Garden Center, Lowe’s, Buckley’s Prairie Landscaping, Ace Hardware

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BEST HAIR SALON

BJ Grand Salon and Spa

3055 Professional Dr., 753-8880; 3300 Robbins Rd., 787-7770

An area beauty favorite in various forms for four decades, BJ Grand Salon and Spa stays on top of the local market by keeping up with what their website terms “the latest in techniques, services and trends.” Best of Springfield voters agree. In the words of one review on their Facebook page, “The owners are wonderful, the management is great, and everyone you talk to there loves what they do!”

Finalists: Willow & Birch Salon, Studio 6 Hair Salon, Meraki Salon & Spa, Colorific Hair Color Salon

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BEST HIGHER EDUCATION

University of Illinois Springfield

Springfield has been the home of one of only three University of Illinois campuses since Sangamon State University became part of the U of I in 1995. In the ensuing 22 years, UIS has transformed from a two-year “commuter college” to a full-fledged four-year institution, complete with dorm rooms and an athletics program that regularly recruits national and international baseball, volleyball and tennis talent, all while providing the educational quality associated with the prestigious University of Illinois system as represented in Champaign-Urbana and Chicago.

Finalists: Lincoln Land Community College, SIU School of Medicine, St. John’s College of Nursing, Benedictine University ___________________________________

BEST HOME REMODELING COMPANY

Buraski Builders

3757 S Sixth St., 529-5172

“No job too big or too small,” says the website of this category’s big winner and perhaps it is that level of dedication and openness that has made Buraski Builders an area favorite since the late 1980s. In addition to a wide range of services, they have built some notable structures including the Villas at Pine Creek and the Homes of Stone Creek. “I loved the kindness given and the fine details and coming back when needed!!!!” raved one online review. “Now we know exactly whom to contact for any project.”

Finalists: Michael Von Behren Builders, Creasey Construction, Pasley Builders, Greyston’s Remodel & Repair ___________________________________

BEST HVAC COMPANY

Henson Robinson Company

3550 Great Northern, 544-8451

Established in 1861, Henson Robinson is not only our readers’ preferred HVAC company, it’s one of Springfield’s most venerable and well-established companies overall. In words credited to the firm’s 19th-century founders (quoted at hensonrobinson.com), they aim to “provide and install quality products, backed with superior customer service and support. We strive to maintain this dedication to ensure our customers’ comfort and peace of mind throughout their place of work and residence.” Online reviews are typically glowing, with technician “Eric E.” frequently singled out for praise.

Finalists: Rich Gatschenberger Heating & Cooling, Allied Plumbing & Heating, Weidner Refrigeration

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BEST LIQUOR STORE BEST RETAIL WINE STORE

Friar Tuck

3080 Mercantile Dr., 698-1116

A regional chain with stores in Illinois and Missouri, the west side’s Friar Tuck Beverage is the favorite among Best of Springfield voters, scoring high in both the liquor store and retail wine store categories. “I love this place,” crowed one Facebook review. “They have BY FAR the largest selection within 50 miles in any direction and the staff is always friendly and knowledgeable. They ordered a specific craft beer for my wedding and were a pleasure to work with. They aren’t always the cheapest, but their helpfulness and selection more than makes up for it. Highly recommend.”

Finalists: Hy-Vee, The Corkscrew, Famous Liquors, 709 Cut Rate Liquors

Finalists: Retail Wine Store Finalists: The Corkscrew, It’s All About Wine, Hy-Vee, Meijers

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BEST NAIL SALON

Soak Nail Massage Spa

2963 Lindbergh Blvd., 546-3821

Our readers can’t get enough of the “relaxing pedicures, no-chip shellac manicures and full sets” (as listed at soakspringfield.com) offered at Soak Nail Massage Spa, which also offers couples pedicures and massages. “My legs are so relaxed that I’m not sure how I’m going to walk out of here,” said one online review. Who could ask for more?

Finalists: BJ Grand Salon, Luxe Nail Bar, Pink &White Nails & Spa, Sasa Nails & Spa

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BEST NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

Michael Von Behren Builder, Inc.

3537 S Douglas Ave., 698-8484

“Had work done at our home and they were professional from start to finish,” reads a typical Facebook review of Michael Von Behren Builder, our readers’ favorite new home construction company, founded 35 years ago by Michael after having worked for his father, Robert E. von Behren for many years. “Our team is ready to get to know you and your family,” says the company’s website, which also promises “as little disruption to your dayto-day life as possible.”

Finalists: Creasey Construction, D & S Builders, Pasley Builders, Robert McCurley Contractor

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BEST PET BOARDING

Laketown Animal Hospital

1115 Stevenson Dr., 529-4211

“I will never take my dogs anywhere else,” says one Facebook review of Laketown Animal Hospital, exemplifying the trust and loyalty which placed them in the number one spot with our readers. “They have been taking care of the dogs in my family for more than 20 years.” Family-owned and employing six veterans, they have been operating for 50 years and their website explicitly promises to “feed, nurture, and lavish your pets with attention” when they board there.

Finalists: Howliday Inn & Suites at Sangamon Avenue Vet Clinic, Kinner Kennels, Tail Command, Fun Animal Sports Training

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BEST PET GROOMING

Suds N Pups Pet Grooming

235 N English Ave., 546-3686

A groomed pet is a happy pet and our readers’ furry friends are decidedly happiest at Suds N Pups. But don’t put all your faith in the numbers. “My little guy smells and looks great!” says one Facebook review. “They took such great care of my little lady -- we will be going back!” says another.

Finalists: Paws N Claws Grooming, Bubbles of Fun Pet Grooming, Oh My Dog Mobile Grooming, Tail Command ___________________________________

BEST PLACE TO BUY EYEWEAR

Vision Care Associates

121 N Grand Ave W.; 2741 Prairie Crossing Dr., 800-272-7393

“The staff, especially the ladies in the frame department, went out of their way and above the norm to help me,” according to one online review of Vision Care Associates, bolstering the opinion of our readers, who placed the two-location eye care facility, with eyewear shop on premises, at the top of the list of places to go for your glasses frames and contact needs.

Finalists: Prairie Eye & Lasik Center, Eyemart Express, Bergh-White Opticians

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BEST RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Concordia Village

4101 W. Iles Ave., 793-9429

Concordia Village – a Lutheran senior community – was ranked highest by our readers.

With a slogan like “Live life to the fullest!” it’s not hard to see why. “We are so pleased we made the move to Concordia,” wrote one happy resident on the Concordia Facebook page.”The staff and the residents display a positive attitude which cannot help but rub off on everyone they meet. Keep it up, folks; you make life worth living!”

Finalists: The Villas Senior Care Community, Sherman, River Birch Senior Living, Brenden Gardens

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BEST YOGA STUDIO

Ahh Yoga

2201 W. White Oaks Drive., 725-2373

Ahh Yoga aims to provide “an oasis from the hustle and bustle of everyday life,” according to its website. “We want to be the place that feels warm and friendly and where you feel accepted just as you are.” Our readers apparently feel just that, elevating it to the highest level of local yoga studios. “I have never done Yoga but was excited to go each Sunday,” said one beginning yoga student in an online review. “I would recommend Ahh Yoga to anyone who is wanting to try yoga.” Can we get a Namaste?

Finalists: Fit Club, Half Moon Yoga Fit, Yoga 7even

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BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

Tara Long

Tara Long Photography 773 Durkin Drive, Suite A, 494-0405

Tara Long’s enthusiasm for her work translates easily into a passion for life her clients want to share. In fact, many of her clients do – through her Facebook group of moms who have dinner out together and work on charitable projects.

“I normally shoot newborn children and families. My style is more non-posed, either in the studio or an area park, with families interacting in the moment. We do the posed ‘grandma shot,’ too, but then I capture the moments when people are looking at each other, playing games, having fun and being silly with genuine expressions of laughter and smiles.” As for the finished look, “A lot of my editing style features rich, deep colors with a few shadows.”

The combination of Long’s style and personality brings back nearly 90 percent of her clients for return shoots and community projects. Long’s Facebook group has supported such organizations as the Red Cross, Matthew Project, James Project and more. See her work at www. taralongphotography.com and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/taralongphoto/

Finalists: Kate Spencer; Kari Bedford; Kristi Mitchell; Lauren Westrich

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BEST REALTOR

Jami Winchester

The Real Estate Group 3701 Wabash Ave., 306-1000

“I’ve been doing this for 19 years and I just treat people the way I want to be treated,” says Springfield native Jami Winchester, “with kindness, and compassion. I respond quickly, and I understand what they’re going through. [Buying a home] is one of the biggest financial decisions of people’s lives and it can be very emotional. I understand that.”

Winchester does mostly residential buying and selling, and takes a “24/7”

approach to her work. “You can’t just close the door on Friday and say ‘I’ll be back on Monday.’” The phone rings and she answers it, not only because it’s good for business, but because she appreciates her hometown. “I grew up in Springfield, and know a lot of people here. I’ve supported the St. John’s Children’s Hospital and other organizations, I network, and I serve on various boards. This community has been so generous to me and I am trying to give back.”

Finalists: Ashley Coker – The Real Estate Group; Jane Hay – The Real Estate Group; Michael Castleman – ReMax Professionals; Deb Sarsany – The Real Estate Group

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BEST TEACHER

Sally Schwartz

Rochester EC-1 and 2/3 Building West Main St., Rochester, 498-9778

“I have art in my name!” says this year’s happy, winning teacher, Sally Schwartz, and she has art in her spirit. Every morning’s routine with the children includes a calland-response “I’m an artist!” vow because Schwartz’s mission is to help all the children in her pre-kindergarten through third grade classes see themselves as creative thinkers. “When they believe that and believe in themselves, I’ve done part of my job right,” says Schwartz.

Schwartz, who has been teaching for 26 years, including a little more than a year in her new role as an art teacher, says there are many things that bring her joy as a teacher, especially her students’ energy. “The energy the kids have is contagious.”

Schwartz is also glad to work with the other teachers. “There are some really nice people around Rochester, and I get to work with some of the best people in the world!”

Finalists: Mary Kate Smith – PORTA Elementary; John Barrett – Pleasant Plains Middle School; Elizabeth Birch – New Berlin Elementary; Megan Sponsler – TRI-City

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BEST PLUMBER

Easterday Plumbing

1601 N. 32nd St., 527-8000

Some days, Easterday Plumbing is in the improvements business. Other days they’re in the rescue business. Either way, their service is reliable, courteous and prompt. “We have been providing Springfield and the surrounding areas with dependable, affordable and high-quality plumbing solutions since 1991,” Easterday’s website says, and those have been 26 trustworthy years. Thanks Easterday. Well done!

Finalists: Ridings Plumbing; Rick Ray Plumbing; Flentje’s Plumbing; K & K Plumbing

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