BEST HEALTHY MENU OPTIONS 
CoreLife Eatery
CoreLife Eatery is located across from White Oaks Mall in Sherwood Plaza. It’s touted as offering healthy alternatives to traditional fast food – and it definitely delivers. CoreLife makes everything from scratch and doesn’t use trans-fat, high fructose corn syrup or artificial colors or flavors. It’s also GMO-free and the chicken and steak are always antibiotic- and hormone-free.
CoreLife really looks out for the well-being of their customers. Unlike regular fast food restaurants that have just a couple of “healthy” options, the entire restaurant is dedicated to healthy food choices. The owners do an excellent job with spices and seasoning so that not only is the food good for you, it also tastes good. That’s something that can be hard to balance, and CoreLife does it well.
The menu is divided into different sections: green bowls, grain bowls, broth bowls, power plates, warm rice bowls or create-your-own bowl. The menu indicates which items are vegan – at least one option in each category is – so there’s sure to be something delicious to choose from for those who prefer this route. The Sriracha Ginger Tofu and Ancient Grains bowl is a delicious option. Green bowls such as the Chicken Cobb (shredded kale, chipped romaine, chicken, avocado, bacon and hard-boiled egg) are made with dark leafy greens, veggies and come with made-from-scratch dressings. The broth bowls are made from bone broths that are simmered in the store all day, every day. Diners even have the option to purchase the bone broth for use at home. The power plates are the perfect option for someone looking to get in protein for the day. Each comes with protein grilled to perfection, a filling side, a roasted vegetable medley and one of CoreLife’s homemade sauces. For those that don’t eat meat, tofu options are available as well. Not into soda? CoreLife also offer alternatives like fresh-squeezed lemonade, honey ginger lemonade, tropical green tea and cucumber basil lemonade. You can even sample the drinks before you pick one, which is a nice touch. Who said healthy has to be boring?
BEST STEAKHOUSE
Texas Roadhouse
2540 W. Iles Avenue, 698-5700
Finalists: Outback Steakhouse, Old Luxemburg Inn, Alexander’s Steakhouse, LongHorn Steakhouse
BEST SUB/SANDWICH
Head West Sub Stop
1124 W. Jefferson, 793-9101 3311 Robbins Road, 726-9202 2432 Denver Road, 744-7990 1281 Toronto Road, 585-7990 530 E. Capitol Avenue, 789-9101 3325 S. Sixth Street, 679-2477 450 State Street, Rochester, 498-1182 401 South Main Street, Jacksonville, 271-1614 136 South Oakland Avenue, Decatur, 791-6623
Finalists: Monty’s Submarines, Long Nine Junction, McAlister’s Deli, Jimmy John’s
BEST SUSHI
Osaka Japanese Restaurant
1665 Wabash Avenue, 726-8037, Finalists: Happy Sushi, Mimosa Vietnamese and Thai Restaurant, Pao Bistro, Kiku Japanese Steak and Seafood House
BEST TACOS
Taco Gringo
975 Clocktower Drive, 546-9494 125 S. Grand Avenue, 670-2905 1851 N. Grand Avenue, 525-2666
Finalists: Tacology 101, Taqueria Moroleon, AZ-T-CA Mexican Grill, Chadito’s Mexican American Grill
BEST THAI
Magic Kitchen
115 N. Lewis Street, 525-6975 4112 N. Peoria Road, 525-2230
Finalists: Little Saigon Restaurant, Mekong Cafe, Thai Basil, Taste of Thai Restaurant
BEST WEDDING CAKES
Incredibly Delicious
925 S. Seventh Street, 528-8548
Finalists: Three Twigs Bakery, Hy-Vee, Sweet Cake Creations, County Market
BEST BEER SELECTION
Buzz Bomb
Brewing Company
Buzz Bomb Brewing Company has been a great addition to downtown Springfield. It’s located next to the Kidzeum, which makes it the perfect place to stop for a beer if you need to unwind after the little ones got all wound up at the museum. The owners are genuinely nice people and provide good service to their patrons. Maybe that’s why Buzz Bomb was also a finalist in voting for best place to go downtown and best local bartender.
Buzz Bomb offers a large bar on the first floor with custom seating that was built by the Buzz Bomb crew itself. Customers can take a seat at the bar and try one of their many different beers, the majority of which are brewed on location. All beers come in a taster portion so you can try them all out to find the ones you like the best: Brown Ale, Cream Ale, Hefeweizen and IPA are some of the choices. For the noncraft beer drinker, there are a couple of hard cider options.
At the rear of the first floor there are glass windows that let visitors view the brew room to see where and how the beer magic happens. The staff are also known to give brewery tours. Head to the second floor, which can be rented out for private parties, events or fundraisers, and there’s even more seating and a second bar.
Buzz Bomb often has events going on throughout the week, including open mic nights, trivia nights, live music and the occasional board game night – which led to a top five ranking in the Best Place for Open Mic Night and Best Bar for Those in Their Mid 20’s categories. Buzz Bomb has also teamed up with Café Moxo and Just the Basics to provide you with amazing beer from Buzz Bomb, along with food from Café Moxo and wine or liquor from Just the Basics, for your holiday parties. For the beer selection and many other reasons, Springfield is happy to welcome Buzz Bomb.
BEST WINGS
Westwoods Lodge Pub & Grill
2406 W. Jefferson Street, 698-9256
Finalists: Buffalo Wild Wings, Coz’s Pizza & Pub, Show-Me’s Sports Bar & Grill, Hooters
BEST BAR FOR MID-20’S
Crows Mill Pub
1220 Toronto Road, 679-7477
Finalists: Buzz Bomb Brewing Company, Floyd’s Thirst Parlor, Curve Inn, Obed and Isaac’s Microbrewery & Eatery
BEST BARTENDER AND LOCATION NAME
Obed and Isaac’s Microbrewery & Eatery - Darcy Darland
500 S. Sixth Street, 670-0627
Finalists: Buzz Bomb Brewing Company - Steve Bradley; Conrad’s Bar - Allison Weedman; Route 66 Motorheads Bar, Grill & Museum - Kara Meyer; Route 66 Motorheads Bar, Grill & Musuem - Stephanie Harris
BEST BEER GARDEN
Obed and Isaac’s Microbrewery & Eatery 500 S. Sixth Street, 670-0627
Finalists: Curve Inn, Crows Mill Pub, Boones Saloon, The Blue Grouch Pub
BEST BEER SELECTION
Buzz Bomb Brewing Company
406 E. Adams Street
Finalists: Obed and Isaac’s Microbrewery & Eatery, Craft Beer Bar, Springfi eld Beer Company, Route 66 Motorheads Bar, Grill & Museum
BEST NEW RESTAURANT
Route 66 Motorheads Bar, Grill & Museum 600 Toronto Road, 679-7323
Finalists: Joseph’s Fine Cuisine, CoreLife Eatery, Rosati’s Pizza, Nu-Voh at the Saint Nicholas
BEST SERVER & LOCATION
Obed and Isaac’s Microbrewery & Eatery - Shane Hopper 500 S. Sixth Street, 670-0627
Finalists: Hamburger Dan’s Sunrise Café - Ann; D’arcy’s Pint - Kammy Ferrigno; Coz’s Pizza & Pub - Shelly Bandelow; The Creek Pub & Grill - Ashley Klutz
BEST NEW RESTAURANT OPENED AFTER 8/1/18
Route 66 Motorheads 
Bar, Grill & Museum
Route 66 Motorheads Bar and Grill is relatively new to the scene, having just opened last year off I-55 at the Toronto Road exit. If you’re lost, just look for the racing car on top of the beer garden, and you’ll know you’re in the right place.
Motorheads is a must if you are a car lover. Even if you aren’t, it’s still pretty neat.
The walls are covered with Route 66 memorabilia. Beer taps come out of the trunks of classic cars that are mounted to the wall. And the bar itself, which runs almost the whole length of the place, features retro photographs of Springfield built right into it. And don’t forget the cars and motorcycles that are in every sight line. There’s even a Motorheads’ museum on the property with a banquet room that can be rented out for private parties.
Motorheads offers classic bar and grill food with a few of their own spins thrown in. The menu presents itself as an “owner’s manual” and pays homage to classic cars. Appetizers are named after car parts such as Lug Nuts (Wisconsin cheese curds) and Ball Bearings (cordon blue bites). The Super Birds (chicken wings) come with eight to an order and are always fresh and juicy. There are also burgers and sandwiches named after cars including the Thunderbird (bourbon burger topped with caramelized onions, provolone cheese and mushrooms in a bourbon sauce) and the Firebird (buffalo chicken, breaded or grilled, with buttery buffalo sauce). All sandwiches are served with your choice of “accessories,” or sides. Motorheads also offers pizza, which is a must-try. It has a thin crust with the perfect ratio of cheese to sauce to crust. It doesn’t matter what you choose to order, anything you get is bound to be good.
In addition to a fun atmosphere and awesome food, Motorheads has live music, car cruise-ins and bike nights. Check out the Facebook page for the latest information on its various events. It’s an all-around great place to eat and should definitely make your list.
BEST NEW BAR
Anvil & Forge Brewing and Distilling Company 619 E. Washington Street, 679-1195
Finalists: Sky Lounge, Springfield Beer Company, Rosati’s Pizza, The Incubator
BEST SPECIALTY COCKTAIL AND LOCATION NAME
Boones Saloon - Bloody Mary 301 W. Edwards Street, 679-3752
Finalists: Obed and Isaac’s Microbrewery & Eatery-Strawberry Cooler; JP Kelly’s Pub - Bloody Mary; Curve Inn - Bacardi Party; Route 66 Motorheads Bar, Grill & Museum - Super Bee Rum Punch Bucket
BEST WINE BAR
Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant
2501 Wabash Avenue, 321-9100
Finalists: Danenberger Family Vineyards, It’s All About Wine, 3Sixteen Wine Bar, American Harvest Eatery
BEST GYRO
Gyros Stop
2907 S. MacArthur Boulevard, 698-6463: 2345 W. Monroe Street, 546-3442
Finalists: Yanni's Gyros, The Corner Pub and Grill, Zach’s Wraps, Toni’s Café
BEST WINERY
Danenberger Family Vineyards
12341 Irish Road, New Berlin, 488-6321
Finalists: Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant, Hill Prairie Winery, West of Wise Winery, Walnut Street Winery
BEST FOOD TRUCK
Cooper’s StrEATside Bistro
3115 E. Sangamon Ave., 993-1195
Finalists: Vose's Korndogs, Twyford BBQ & Catering, AZ-T-CA, Gilly’s Championship BBQ & Catering
BEST NEW BAR 
Anvil & Forge
Brewing and Distilling Company
Anvil & Forge offers a relaxed and hip environment with modern amenities – perfect for unwinding after a hard day at work or when you just want to kick back. You can tell the owners put a lot of thought into the space, which is very welcoming and nicely done.
Eight different beers are offered on tap, all of different styles, and brewed on location at the distillery. The current menu includes a New England Style IPA, Hefeweizen, Juicy Pale Ale and a Tart Ale, among others. Customers have the option of getting half pours or full pours – go for the half pours so you can try more. You can even take home a growler or two of your favorite brew to enjoy at home. For those that don’t feel like a traditional beer, check out the Zombie Killer (a cherry hard cider). Anvil & Forge changes beers often, so be sure to visit frequently in order to try out the new ones.
While Anvil & Forge doesn’t offer food, patrons are more than welcome to bring food in, or better yet, have it delivered. With trivia nights on Wednesdays, music bingo on Thursdays and local bands that perform regularly, there’s definitely no lack of entertainment at Anvil & Forge. On nights when there’s not an event going on, be sure to check out the board game selection. Battleship is always a fun one. Anvil & Forge even has an indoor area to play corn hole and Jenga. It’s the perfect place to go with friends or to make new friends.
GOODS & SERVICES
BEST AC/HEATING COMPANY
Henson Robinson Company
3550 Great Northern Avenue, 544-8451
Finalists: Eades Heating and Cooling, Dixon Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc., Isaacs Refrigeration, Bormida Mechanical Services
BEST BANK
United Community Bank
3055 Professional Drive, 529-3000 1301 S. Koke Mill Road, 787-3000 3300 Robbins Road, 787-3000 5250 Shepherd Road, 483-2491 1900 W. Iles Avenue, 787-3000 700 Stevenson Drive, 529-3000 617 Bruns Lane, 787-3001 120 Chatham Road, 787-1651 2120 Peoria Road, 544-0139 3200 W. Iles Avenue, 787-1651
Finalists: Bank of Springfield, Marine Bank, INB, Hickory Point Bank
BEST CREDIT UNION
Heartland Credit Union
720 S. Grand Avenue, 726-8877; 2213 W. White Oaks Drive, 610 E. St. Joseph Street, 701 N. First Street, 2717 E. Sangamon Ave.
Finalists: CEFCU, Illinois Educators Credit Union, ISPFCU, Land of Lincoln Credit Union
BEST MORTGAGE LENDING INSTITUTION
United Community Bank 3055 Professional Drive, 529-3000
1301 S. Koke Mill Road, 787-3000 3300 Robbins Road, 787-3000 5250 Shepherd Road, 483-2491 1900 W. Iles Avenue, 787-3000 700 Stevenson Drive, 529-3000 617 Bruns Lane, 787-3001 120 Chatham Road, 787-1651 2120 Peoria Road, 544-0139 3200 W. Iles Avenue, 787-5111
Finalists: Heartland Credit Union, CEFCU, Bank of Springfield, Marine Bank
BEST ELECTRICAL COMPANY
Ruby Electric
341 Meadowbrook Road, 787-4949
Finalists: B & B Electric, Ryan Electrical Solutions, Jim Watts Electric, Egizii Electric
BEST SCANDAL (STAFF PICK)
Adam Lopez
The best scandals are ones pulled in full public view. Back in the 1980s, it was Frederick George Celani scamming the entire city with promises to establish a package delivery service that would put Federal Express out of business. Kaypro, his spun-from-straw company, closed the day after it opened without a single package delivered, putting folks on the unemployment line and Celani in jail. Then there’s Jeff Parsons, who high-tailed it to Texas after wearing out his welcome in Springfield, where the mayor and Chamber of Commerce once declared him and his company an economic force despite tax liens and a history of selling illegal fireworks and pitching produce from a roadside tent that blew away in a windstorm.
Sadly, Springfield too often seems built for the most brazen of shysters, and Adam Lopez, erstwhile Springfield school board member, is the latest case in point. Everyone, including the media, should have caught on to Lopez much sooner than we did. Come on: He puts his name on a high school basketball tournament while he’s on the school board? Instead of asking questions, we said “Terrific for the kids!” Turns out, the tournament books were so screwed up that auditors couldn’t figure out whether money was missing.
Prosecutors say seven figures is missing from investment accounts once overseen by Lopez, a former financial adviser who now sits in jail charged with stealing from clients, including relatives and the elderly. The best part, really, are charges filed after Lopez landed in the hoosegow alleging that he scammed a fellow inmate: Give me some money and I’ll invest it so that you’ll have enough to make bond. Folks said the inmate was foolish and naïve. Perhaps we all should look in the mirror.
BEST GARDEN CENTER
Green View
3000 W. Jefferson Street, 787-4700
Finalists: Farmers Market by Barney’s, Buckley’s Prairie Landscaping, Menards, Lowe’s Home Improvement
BEST HOME REMODELING COMPANY
Buraski Builders, Inc. 3757 S. Sixth Street, 529-5172
Finalists: Michael von Behren Builder, Inc., Bobby Shaw Building & Remodeling, Sutton’s, Gene Caudle Handyman Service
BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR
United Community Bank Financial Services - Tate Jones 3200 W. Iles, 787-5111
Finalists: Heartland Financial Services - Tate Hartman; Edward Jones - Ed Lex; M.A. Kluemke & Associates - Mark Kluemke; Benjamin F. Edwards & Co. - Denise Edwards
BEST PLACE TO BUY PAINT
Dellert’s Paint Company
1627 S. MacArthur Boulevard, 787-5474
Finalists: Don Smith Paint Co., Sherwin Williams, Menards, Lowe’s Home Improvement
BEST INSURANCE AGENCY AND AGENT, NATIONAL
Mark Cortesi - State Farm Insurance 924 Clocktower Drive, 787-1727
Finalists: American Family Insurance - Sean Bull; State Farm Insurance - Jeff Elston; Country Financial - Jake Surratt; State Farm Insurance - Daton Kaisner
BEST INSURANCE AGENCY AND AGENT, INDEPENDENT
Heartland Credit Union - Allison Hogan
2213 W. White Oaks Drive, 726-2101
Finalists: United Financial Services - Missy Haley; Formea Insurance Group - Tracy Formea; Bailey Family Insurance - Mark Bailey; Denton-Merritt- Dycus Insurance - John Merritt
BEST PLACE TO BUY PAINT
Dellert’s Paint Company
Dellert’s Paint Company, a family-owned business for nearly 120 years, is known for quality paint, paint supplies, window treatments, decorating advice and expert product knowledge. Fan of Route 66 also know Dellert’s for its retro neon sign that hangs out front. Third-generation owner Don Dellert, Jr., said that people from St. Louis have called the store to ask if the painter’s arm of the neon sign still moves so they can photograph it at night.
Otto Redeker originally opened a paint store in 1900 and later sold the business to an employee named John Neu. Neu employed Paul Dellert, who purchased the store from Neu in 1943 and renamed it Dellert’s Paint Company. The store has been owned by the Dellert family ever since.
Don knows that some people will always choose to buy paint from a big box store and never come to a true paint store. He says, “To most people, paint is paint until you try high-quality paint. High-quality products and product knowledge go a long way with customers.” The staff has a combined 75 years of experience helping customers select the right primer, paint or other type of finish, and that sets Dellert’s Paint Company apart from large chain stores.
Another unique aspect of Dellert’s Paint Company is The Decorating Place, located within the store. This is where you come to get expert decorating advice from Kim Summerlin, who joined the business in 2017 and has over 40 years of experience in the paint and wallpaper industry. Summerlin also works with window treatments and is happy to guide a client in pulling together a room or orchestrating the decor of an entire home. She is available during store hours and will also make appointments for in-home consultations.
Don’s son, Jack, currently works in the store, but Don says he may have other aspirations. Time will tell whether a fourth generation will take over the family business. In the meantime, Dellert’s Paint Company, on the corner of MacArthur and Laurel, will keep its iconic neon sign operational and its customers happy.
BEST LANDSCAPE SUPPLY
Menards
2250 Chuckwagon Drive, 698-8815, 2701 Marketplace Drive, 522-1835
Finalists: Green View, Buckley’s Prairie Landscaping, Artisan Stone Products, Bedrock Materials
BEST LANDSCAPE COMPANY
Scooter’s Lawn Care, Inc.
3805 N. Dirksen Parkway, 473-1472
Finalists: Green View, Knob Hill Landscape Company, Buckley’s Prairie Landscaping, Butch’s Lawncare and Landscaping
BEST LANDSCAPE DESIGNER
Scooter’s Lawn Care - Jacob Godar
3805 N. Dirksen Parkway, 473-1472
Finalists: Green View - Justin Dean; Green View - Travis Norville; Butch's Lawncare and Landscaping - Joseph George; Sexton Landscape Concepts - Mark Sexton
BEST PEST CONTROL COMPANY
“Sonny” Adams Pest Control 1425 S. MacArthur Boulevard, 544-2122
Finalists: Bacon’s Termite & Pest Control, Sentinel Pest Control, Fidelis Pest Solutions, Orkin Pest Control
BEST PLACE TO BUY A MATTRESS
Just Beds, Inc. 3120 Montvale Drive, 698-6179
Finalists: Verlo Mattress, Barney’s Furniture, Ashley HomeStore, Sleep Number
BEST NEW HOME BUILDER
Buraski Builders, Inc.
3757 S. Sixth Street, 529-5172
Finalists: Moughan Builders, Inc., Michael von Behren Builder, Inc., Zinn Construction LLC, Keystone Custom Built Homes, Inc.
BEST HOME THEATER EQUIPMENT
Sundown One 4685 Wabash Avenue, 793-8888
Finalists: Best Buy, Ryan Electrical Solutions, Audio Technical Services, Inc., Ashley HomeStore
BEST LANDSCAPE COMPANY
Scooter’s Lawn Care
BEST LANDSCAPE DESIGNER
Jacob Godar
Jacob Godar and his staff must be doing something right. This year Illinois Times readers named Scooter’s Lawn Care best landscape company and recognized Jacob as the best landscape designer for the second year running. The business has garnered a growing list of accolades since opening its doors in 2014.
Jacob knew from an early age that he really wanted to start a large business. “I was obsessed,” he says, recounting times when his mother would take him to Chamber of Commerce meetings before he could drive.
He was working at Zara’s Collision Center when he decided to open a lawn care business, although he initially toyed with the idea of starting a body shop. As he tells it, there was an older man named Jimmy who loved to come in and hang out with the guys at Zara’s. At the time, several employees rode mopeds to work; Jimmy always called Jacob “Scooter Boy,” then suggested he name his business Scooter’s Lawn Care.
Jacob started the business with a push mower, blower and weed eater. With the help of his dad and a few friends, he gradually grew his landscaping business and now employs 19 people. “I knew a lot about landscaping,” he says, and specializes in hardscaping, landscaping and lawn maintenance. Today he offers customers a variety of services ranging from designing and installing custom landscaping, designing outdoor living spaces, lawn care and home services.
He says that communication is lacking in this industry, and that is where he focuses the hardest. “It’s really hard for customers to get heard. We have five people just in the office,” he says.
Jacob wants his business to stand out. When he was in school, he hated wearing his shirt tucked in. Now that he is on the other side of the desk, he makes sure his employees all have their shirts tucked in. “It’s not typical in our business,” he noted.
He strives to communicate with his customers and make sure each person receives quality service. Jacob even sends a card or small gift for anniversaries, birthdays and other memorable occasions. “We want our customers to continue coming back,” he says.
BEST PLACE TO BUY HOME FURNISHINGS
Hendricks Home Furnishings 217 N. Springfield Street, Virden, 965-3337
Finalists: Magnolia Lane Home Décor and More, Ashley HomeStore, Barney’s Furniture, La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries
BEST PLUMBING COMPANY
Henson Robinson Company
3550 Great Northern Avenue, 544-8451
Finalists: Easterday Plumbing, Ridings Plumbing, Steve Ray Plumbing Service, Inc., Mike Williams Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning
BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY
RE/Max Professionals
2475 W. Monroe Street, 787-7215
Finalists: The Real Estate Group, Keller Williams Capital, Campo Realty, Advantage Realty
BEST REALTOR
Adam Bugos - The Real Estate Group
3701 W. Wabash Ave., 891-7653
Finalists: Ashley Coker - The Real Estate Group; Jami Winchester - The Real Estate Group; Michael Castleman - RE/MAX; Rachel Pate - The Real Estate Group
BEST ROOFING COMPANY
Bobby Shaw Building and Remodeling 2466 Glencoe Street, 546-3973
Finalists: Sutton’s, Sunley Roofing, Inc., Seth Molen, Henson Robinson Company
BEST WINDOWS, SIDING AND DOORS
Feldco 719 Estill Drive, 568-6644
Finalists: Sutton’s, Griffitts Exterior Home Designs, Inc., Menards, Barnett Windows and Doors
BEST ANTIQUE/VINTAGE STORE
Springfield Vintage
215 S. Fifth Street, 652-8413
Finalists: Magnolia Lane Home Décor and More, Abe’s Tradin’ Post, Gypsy Soul, Abe’s Old Hat Antiques
BEST DRIVE-TIME RADIO 
NPR Illinois
WUIS FM 91.9
Whether you’re headed for work or on your way home, readers agree that NPR Illinois is the place to be to get your head straight. While other media outlets have cut staff in recent years the folks at NPR Illinois have been hiring. The station – WUIS at 91.9 on your FM dial – boasts a staff of 10 reporters and editors. That’s more boots on the ground to cover state and local issues than anyone else we can think of. And it shows. Brian Mackey, who covers state government, is one of the sharpest Statehouse reporters on the beat. With help from ProPublica, reporter Rachel Otwell has been crushing it with a series of stories about sexual harassment at the University of Illinois. You won’t get a lot of hotheads screaming past each other. But, if you want thought-out news that goes beyond the headlines, NPR Illinois is hard to beat.
BEST LOCAL LIVING AUTHOR 
Courtney Westlake
Not only thought of as our very own best local living author, Courtney Westlake is known as a popular storyteller across the nation and is a frequent contributor to major media outlets such as Huffington Post, NBC’s “The Today Show,” Yahoo Parenting and Good Housekeeping magazine. All this attention stems from her book, A Different Beautiful: Discovering and Celebrating Beauty in Places You Never Expected, becoming a sure, if unexpected, popular success after publication in 2016.
The genesis of the story began when her daughter Brenna, very soon after being born, was diagnosed with a rare and incurable genetic skin disorder known as Harlequin Ichthyosis. Courtney’s way of coping with the trauma and working through the issues involved in this peculiar condition led to the writing of A Different Beautiful. By using the power of words and the strength of her faith, she told the story of how she, along with her husband, Evan, and young son, Connor, struggled to discover a different way of understanding and managing the emotions from within and reactions from without.
Courtney initially began searching for comfort through a blog, putting down in words what was on her mind and sharing her personal experiences with Brenna. As she developed a following, the book soon followed and became a success on the basis of the compelling story, heartfelt writing and positive reflections.
In other related business, she is highly sought after for public speaking functions, produced an e-book called The Spaghetti Shot about taking photos of your children and has written That’s How You Know, a Christian children’s book that “reassures children of God’s never-ending love with a powerful message about how special each child is to God.”
Along with writing her regular website blog, she also keeps abreast of social media, a necessity for anyone these days trying to self-promote their artistic products. Courtney prefers Instagram (she’s at cwestlake) with over 26,000 followers checking her out and also does Facebook and Pinterest, for those of you wanting to know how to connect online with the “Best” author around.
BEST BARBER SHOP
Hair of The Dog Bar/Bershop
323 E. Monroe Street, 670-0699
Finalists: Beggs Barbershop, The Men’s Room, Dukett’s Barber Shop, Sammy’s Barber Shop
BEST BIKE SHOP
Ace Bicycle Shop
2500 S. MacArthur Boulevard, 523-0188
Finalists: R & M Cyclery, BikeTek, Scheels, Wheel Fast Bicycle Co.
BEST CAR DETAILING
Recon Techs Springfield
820 E. Black Avenue, 670-1132
Finalists: Precision Detailing, Danno’s Auto Detailing, King's Deluxe, Staabo’s Detailing
BEST CAR WASH
Rainstorm Car Wash
3101 Hedley Road, 670-1642 321 Cranmer Drive, 679-8243 2905 Adlai Stevenson Drive, 670-2957
Finalists: Car Wash City, Sparkling Clean Car Wash, On Track Car Wash, Gas N Wash
BEST AUTO SERVICE CENTER
Floyd Imports
2320 Prairie Crossing Drive, 585-1214
Finalists: Vern’s Auto Repair, Johnson & Johnson Auto Services, Car-X Tire & Auto, CheckPoint Tire & Service
BEST NEW CAR DEALERSHIP
Freedom Chevrolet Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram 625 S. Springfield St., Virden, 965-3327
Finalists: Isringhausen Imports, Green Hyundai, Landmark Ford, S & K Buick GMC
BEST WINDOWS, SIDING AND DOORS
Feldco
As the website states: “With over 400,000 homeowners served in the Midwest, it’s no wonder why Springfield homeowners can trust Feldco for quality windows, siding and doors.” Capital city homeowners agree.
The Des Plaines-based business first opened its doors more than 40 years ago in Chicago and now has locations in Rockford and Peoria, along with three Wisconsin and two Iowa locations. The Springfield location opened its doors last year in the former Newman Alton headquarters at 719 Estill Dr. and offers energyefficient products and customer service that set them apart from the rest.
Whatever you’re in the market for, Feldco has a wide selection of customizable replacement windows, doors and siding options to choose from at a price that won’t break the bank. To protect your most prized possession, the company sells durable steel garage doors that are foam insulated to protect your car year-round from central Illinois’ weather. For those homeowners who want to boost their home’s curb appeal and value, Feldco also sells siding, ranging from standard double four to shake vinyl siding in your choice of colors.
The company markets directly to consumers and the sales staff will even come to your home to discuss your needs and find a solution. If you prefer to see the merchandise before you buy, you’re always welcome to visit the showroom to see what Feldco has to offer.
BEST PLACE TO BUY HOME FURNISHINGS
Hendricks Home Furnishings
Jeff Hendricks likes to say that Hendricks Home Furnishings in Virden is a destination store for furniture. Now celebrating its 70 th year in business, the Hendricks family believes in building friendships with its customers. “Once you’re a customer, you’re a customer for life,” says Jeff, who notes that some people have been customers for decades. “We sell to peoples’ great-grandkids.” Yet, Jeff said some people walk in and say, “We didn’t know you were here.”
This third-generation, family-owned furniture, mattress and flooring store originally started as a Gambles Variety Store – which later became True Value Hardware – and sold a variety of merchandise, including furniture, appliances, hardware, sporting goods and guns. Furniture and appliances were the biggest sellers, and in 1958 the family opened Hendricks Home Furnishings at its current location.
The 46,000-square-foot store recently reopened after closing for 17 weeks when a car crashed into the side of the building and caught on fire. Fortunately the fire was contained to the car, and there was no structural damage to the building. However, the entire stock of inventory was a total loss. “We completely redid the store,” says Jeff.
When asked what he enjoys most, Jeff says it’s getting to talk to a lot of people.
“We’re in this to help people,” he said, and some of the staff has been with them for more than 40 years. “Everything we do, we do for our customers.”
BEST PRE-OWNED CAR DEALERSHIP
Green Certified West 2541 W. Iles Avenue, 241-7888
Finalists: Freedom Chevrolet Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, Isringhausen Imports, Green Hyundai Certified North, S & K Buick GMC
BEST CAR SALESPERSON
Green Mazda - Jason Malek
3760 S. Sixth Street, 391-2400
Finalists: Roberts Automotive - Brian Wilbern; Green West - Dale Ferguson; Green Nissan - Jaret Smith; Green Toyota - Angel Ely
BEST TIRE SHOP
Discount Tire
2871 S. Veterans Parkway, 546-3130
Finalists: Brahler Tire & Lube Service Center, Sam’s Club, Firestone Complete Auto Care, CheckPoint Tire & Service
BEST CHILDREN’S CLOTHING STORE
Once Upon a Child 4225 Wabash Avenue, 679-7134
Finalists: Carter’s, Just Kids, Gypsy Tribe, Second Time Around
BEST CLOTHING BOUTIQUE
Gypsy Soul
3450 Liberty Drive, 679-0174
Finalists: District 23 Boutique, Eye Candy West, Clothes Mentor, The Roost
BEST CONSIGNMENT & RESALE STORE
Clothes Mentor 2329 W. Monroe Street, 698-8485
Finalists: Once Upon a Child, Second Time Around, Remarkable Resale, Consign and Design
BEST RETAIL SHOP DOWNTOWN
The Cardologist 229 S. Sixth Street, 525-4121
Finalists: Recycled Records, Springfield Vintage, Studio on 6th, The Roost
BEST CLOTHING BOUTIQUE
Gypsy Soul
Looking for that one signature piece that defines your personal style? Savvy locals know that they need look no further than Gypsy Soul. Readers recently named Gypsy Soul the best clothing boutique for the unique, distinctive merchandise they’ve come to expect to find.
Owner Sue Schwartz was looking for a new location last year when space became available in the newly constructed retail building located at 3450 Liberty Dr. The 5,400-square-foot store not only offers plenty of customer parking but Gypsy Soul, Gypsy Tribe and Gypsy Dreamer are now consolidated under one roof.
“More space is wonderful,” says Schwartz, who enjoys working with her daughter, Chanel Schwartz, and daughter-in-law, Elle Schwartz, who are both involved in the business as well.
She got her first taste of retail after opening her own store at the age of 20. “Business runs in my blood,” Schwartz says, noting that her parents ran a restaurant while she was growing up. When she moved to Springfield 21 years ago, she opened the downtown art co-op Studio on 6th and later sold the business. “I wanted to get back into boutiquing,” Schwartz said. “I want to end my career the same way I started it – owning a boutique.”
Gypsy Soul is divided into three sections. Gypsy Tribe carries children’s items, while Gypsy Dreamer caters to a younger fashion demographic. Gypsy Soul is the only retailer to carry Lululemon athletic wear, a fact that Schwartz is proud of. “I worked hard to bring it to Springfield,” she says.
The store also carries work by local artists, many whom have been with her since she opened Studio on 6th, in addition to clothing, jewelry, shoes, home goods, books and children’s items.
“We offer one-stop shopping,” says Schwartz, who caters to customers of all ages. She spends a lot of time searching for the next new trend. Her regular customers know she carries cutting edge merchandise and new items arrive every day.
Schwartz and her staff listen to their customers and love dressing women of all shapes. “We tell the truth,” she says. “When a woman walks out, we want them to feel good about themselves.”
Schwartz says she’s always ready to talk, share a hug or lend an ear, and she strives to create a fun, caring environment for her customers. “I’ve made lots of good friends,” she said. “I’m having a great time.”
BEST THRIFT STORE
Goodwill
2531 N. Dirksen Parkway, 679-7845, 2001 Wabash Avenue, 220-1036
Finalists: Springfield Vintage, The Salvation Army Family Store, Once Upon a Child, Plato’s Closet
BEST VETERINARY CLINIC
Laketown Animal Hospital
1115 Adlai Stevenson Drive, 529-4211
Finalists: Grace Veterinary Clinic, Coble Animal Hospital, Myers Animal Clinic, Hope Veterinary Care
BEST PET BOARDING
Laketown Animal Hospital
1115 Adlai Stevenson Drive, 529-4211
Finalists: Sangamon Avenue Veterinary Clinic, Kinner Kennels Inc, Tail Command, K-9 Dog Kennels
BEST PET GROOMING
Paws‘n Claws
421 Bruns Lane, 725-1754
Finalists: Suds N’ Pups Pet Grooming & Doggie Daycare, Pooch Parlor, Laketown Animal Hospital, Beachdog Grooming
BEST PHOTOGRAPHER
Tara Long Photography
773 S. Durkin Drive Suite A, 494-0405
Finalists: Kari Bedford Photography; James Randall Photography; Victoria Kegg, Blue Daisy Art; Brittani Busby, Brit Pics Photography
BEST PET RETAIL STORE
PetSmart
3183 S. Veterans Parkway, 698-3091
Finalists: Animal Protective League, Pet Supplies Plus, Tails To Remember Pet Services, Lincoln’s Doggie Delicatessen
BEST WEDDING VENUE - INDOOR
Erin’s Pavilion at Southwind Park 4965 S. Second Street, 585-2941
Finalists: Inn At 835 Boutique Hotel, Venue 1929, Poe’s Catering on the Hill, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
BEST WEDDING VENUE - OUTDOOR
Washington Park Botanical Garden 1740 W. Fayette Avenue, 546-4116
Finalists: Erin’s Pavilion at Southwind Park, Sheedy Shores Winery, Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center, Inn At 835 Boutique Hotel
BEST RETAIL SHOP DOWNTOWN BEST GIFT STORE
The Cardologist
As is painted on the storefront window at 229 S. Sixth St., if you are looking for “cards, socks, or other fun sh*t,” The Cardologist is the place to be. Owner Doug Mayol, a Springfield native, has been an entrepreneur even before he was of legal age to work. As a kid, he would take his record player from house to house and dance to a song to earn a nickel. He still lives in the neighborhood where he grew up and loves it there.
Mayol has owned several businesses, which have had a number of evolutions, but now he is doing what he always wanted – running a card store. At one time, he owned a store in Springfield and one at a resort in Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri. However, The Cardologist has been his mainstay for 31 years, as of September. The Cardologist is home to hilarious socks, cards that will make you laugh out loud, Springfield memorabilia and other unique gifts that you will not find anywhere else.
As a customer once commented, “This is the coolest store of random crap.” And it’s true. Mayol agrees, “The inventory in The Cardologist is very freewheeling. It may not make sense to everyone who comes in, but it’s filled with things that make me laugh.” And that’s his mission, to make it fun on the customer side of the counter. He hopes to give his customers a laugh, or at least a smile.
Mayol never set out with a store concept, but rather “let it wander where it went,” and now it’s become a Springfield institution for something out of the ordinary. Although The Cardologist is filled with fun, Mayol said, “Retail has changed, and it’s harder than it looks, but I can’t imagine doing anything else.” He has the added bonus of sharing his days with his four-legged assistant, Jazz.
Mayol’s fundamental measure of success is being able to work for himself. He says it may not come with a retirement plan, but “I’ve done what I’ve wanted to do and at the end of each day that I’ve not worked for someone else, I consider it a success. I don’t regret it. You never know until you try.”
BEST GIFT SHOP
The Cardologist
229 S. Sixth Street, 525-4121
Finalists: Penny Lane Gifts, Once in a Blue Moon, Gypsy Soul, Simply Fair
BEST JEWELRY STORE
Giganti & Giganti
3325 Robbins Road, 793-3300
Finalists: Denney Jewelers, AB Lauer Jewelers, Gypsy Soul, Kay Jewelers
BEST FLOWER SHOP
Fifth Street Flower Shop
739 S. Fifth Street, 522-3334
Finalists: Flowers by Mary Lou, True Colors Floral, Petals & Co., Trendsetters Floral
BEST EVENT RENTAL COMPANY
Noonan Grand Rental
3031 S. Koke Mill Road, 546-7368
Finalists: Rustic Love Rentals, Signature Event Rental, Best Expo
BEST CATERING COMPANY
Nelson’s Catering, Inc.
3005 Great Northern Avenue, 787-9443
Finalists: Poe’s Catering on the Hill, Cured Catering, Hamilton’s Catering, 5Flavors Catering
BEST LAW FIRM
Sgro, Hanrahan, Durr, Rabin & Bruce
1119 S. Sixth Street, 615-5699
Finalists: W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law; Brown, Hay & Stephens LLP; Barber, Segatto, Hoffee, Wilke & Cate; Sorling, Northrup, Hanna, Cullen and Cochran, Ltd.
BEST PLACE TO BUY SEAFOOD
Robert’s Seafood Market
1615 W. Jefferson Street, 546-3089
Finalists: Carter’s Fish Market, Hy-Vee, Schnucks
