The Southern Illinoisan's Best of Readers' Choice 2021

THE SOUTHERN

ILLINOISAN’S

2021 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

Your guide to over 100 of the BEST local businesses, services, people and things to do in the region — Voted by YOU!

READERS’ CHOICE CHEERS TO THE WINNERS, FAVORITES, VOTERS AND READERS

Entertainment Page 4

Food

People

Page 10

Page 15

Services

Shopping

Page 20

Page 28

Readers’ Choice is a special advertising section of

PRESIDENT AND DIRECTOR OF LOCAL SALES & MARKETING Donna Denson

T

hank you to all the local businesses and readers for participating in the 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards!

The top three finalists in each category are recognized here and our website, with the business with the most votes being named the Readers’ Choice #1 in that category and the runners up named Favorites.

Readers’ Choice provides an opportunity for local businesses to tout their wares, personalities and services. It’s wonderful to see readers’ champion and show appreciation for their favorite local businesses and service providers, whom they’ve come to rely upon and trust.

Congratulations to the Readers’ Choice winners and favorites. We appreciate your devotion, service and love for our region.

Let’s show our support by shopping with them and investing locally!

REGIONAL SALES SUPPORT MANAGER Matthew Lorenzen ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Susan Eubanks Tina Moon Kathi Odum CONTENT DESIGNERS Emily Shullaw Abby Orf Todd Rector CONTACT US 618-351-5038 1001 E. Main Street Carbondale, IL 62901

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| SUNDAY, MARCH 5, 2022 | READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS 2021

Donna Denson

President and director of local sales & marketing DONNA DENSON, THE SOUTHERN ILLINOISAN

Sunrise at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge.

Thank You for Voting Us the #1 Real Estate Agency In Southern Illinois!!

Proudly Serving All of Southern Illinois

The CEnTURY 21® brand ranked “Highest Overall Satisfaction for First-Time and Repeat Home Buyers and Sellers” by J.D. Power Congratulations to our many driven agents

Voted #1 In Southern Illinois!!!

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS 2021 | SUNDAY, MARCH 5, 2022 |

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2021 READERS’ CHOICE FOR

ENTERTAINMENT BEST BOWLING ALLEY FIRST PLACE

SI Bowl Family Fun Center 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Herrin Bowl 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

West Frankfort Bowl

BEST DANCE STUDIO FIRST PLACE

High Image Dance 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Arabesque Dance Studio 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Studio 84

BEST GYMNASTICS CENTER FIRST PLACE

Ultimate Gymnastics and Cheerleading 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Saluki Gymnastics 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Snow Power Gymnastics & Dance

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| SUNDAY, MARCH 5, 2022 | READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS 2021

Thanks

for your

votes!

• #1 Home Décor

• A Favorite for Children’s Clothing Store • A Favorite for Locally Owned Clothing Store

• Fashion Forward Women’s Clothing & Accessories • Gifts & Home Décor • Bridal Registry

305 W. Main in Marion (618) 969-7115 perfectlyposhboutique.com READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS 2021 | SUNDAY, MARCH 5, 2022 |

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BEST KIDS PARTY VENUE FIRST PLACE

The Creative Getaway 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Ultimate Gymnastics and Cheerleading 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Pirate Pete’s

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE FIRST PLACE

Route 51 Brewing Company 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

John Brown’s On the Square 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Marion Cultural and Civic Center

BEST LIVE THEATER FIRST PLACE

Marion Cultural and Civic Center 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

The Varsity Center 3RD PLACE FAVORITES

McLeod Theater Stage Company

BEST LOCAL GOLF COURSE FIRST PLACE

Kokopelli Golf Club 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Crab Orchard Golf Course 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Hickory Ridge

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| SUNDAY, MARCH 5, 2022 | READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS 2021

BEST LOCAL WEBSITE FIRST PLACE

Southern Illinois Eats 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

WFCN News 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

The Southern Illinoisan

BEST RADIO STATION FIRST PLACE

New Country Z100 WOOZ 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

WCIL-FM 101.5 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

WDBX 91.1

Thank You for VoTing us #1!!!

Voted Best Bank for 8 consecutive years.

READERS’ CHOICE 2021 |

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BEST LOCAL WEBSITE FIRST PLACE

Southern Illinois Eats 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

WFCN News 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

The Southern Illinoisan

BEST RADIO STATION FIRST PLACE

New Country Z100 WOOZ 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

WCIL-FM 101.5 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

WDBX 91.1

Thank You for VoTing us #1!!!

Voted Best Bank for 8 consecutive years.

READERS’ CHOICE 2021 |

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Thank You For VoTing us #1 Best Place to Buy a Preowned Car

You can join Learn more at siucu.org

* Membership required. Federally insured by NCUA. Call 800-449-7301 for additional details.

HOME OF THE LIFETIME POWERTRAIN COVERAGE

Across from the University mAll cArbondAle, il

618.457.8135

VogLErFord.CoM

Thank You For Voting Us Best Carpet!

1003 N. Pentecost Rd. #5809 Marion, IL 62959 Karpetkornerinc.com 8

| SUNDAY, MARCH 5, 2022 | READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS 2021

BEST TV STATION FIRST PLACE

WSIL-TV Channel 3 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

KFVS-TV Channel 12 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

WSIU TV

BEST WEDDING RECEPTION FIRST PLACE

Route 51 Brewing Company and Banquet Center 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Dragonfly Wedding 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Walker’s Bluff

Thank you

for Voting me Best Mid Level Care Provider!!!

It is my honor to serve Southern Illinois!!

Danielle Baker FNP-C READERS’ CHOICE 2021 |

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2021 READERS’ CHOICE FOR

FOOD

BEST BBQ FIRST PLACE

Blazing Trails Texas BBQ 892 Illinois 37, West Frankfort(214) 843-4377

DETAILS:  We only do Texas Style BBQ … dry rub and all wood smokers.  We put a huge emphasis on quality of Food and customer

Service. We only serve you fresh food that we fix that day.

 The Pitmaster is Texas Born and Raised. He has been mak-

BEST ASIAN RESTAURANT FIRST PLACE

New Kahala

ing Southen Illinois his home for about 5 years. Now he has a little one on the way. “How Welcoming and Supportive Everyone has Been to me and my Family; It’s a dream come true and only makes me want to try harder and harder to be the best I can be.”  The quality of the products we put out. We put in hours for every cook to ensure we only give you our best. Remembering each and every person that comes to our door. We appreciate their support and we love to treat them like family.  Our different styles, techniques, and presentation of products. It’s Texas style and Texas sized!  We are a family owned and operated restaurant, so family is very important to us. We’ve tried to create several family meal deals that’s affordable as well as delicious.

We want it to be fun for the kids, so we give big Yeee Hawwww’s and goodies to the little ones.

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

The Vault

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

17th Street BBQ, Murphysboro

Thai Taste

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Thai D Classic Thai Cuisine

BEST BAR FIRST PLACE

John Brown’s on the Square 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

618 Taphouse 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Route 51 Brewing Company 10

| SUNDAY, MARCH 5, 2022 | READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS 2021

Pat’s BBQ

BEST BREAKFAST FIRST PLACE

Harbaugh’s Cafe 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Iron Whisk

BEST BREWERY FIRST PLACE

Route 51 Brewing Company 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

St. Nicholas Brewery 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Big Muddy Brewing

BEST BURGERS FIRST PLACE

West Frankfort Bowling Alley 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

St. Nicholas Brewing Company 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Seasoning Bistro

JEFF RIPPERDA, MD

VOTED BEST

DOCTOR in Southern Illinois

At Shawnee Health Care, we believe quality health care is everyone’s right. That quality comes from the talent and expertise that all of our clinicians bring to the table. We encourage you to come see what makes our care different.

Shawnee Health Care Call us today and find out! (618)519-9200 READERS’ CHOICE 2021 |

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BEST CHICKEN WINGS FIRST PLACE

Buffalo Wild Wings 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

JT’s on the Hill 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Thai Taste

BEST CHILI FIRST PLACE

Wendy’s 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Polar Whip 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

17th Street BBQ

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| SUNDAY, MARCH 5, 2022 | READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS 2021

BEST COFFEE FIRST PLACE

Crown Brew Coffee Co. 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Penny’s Perks Coffee House 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Cold Blooded Coffee Co.

BEST DESSERT FIRST PLACE

Granny Puckett’s 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Larry’s House of Cakes 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Bake Me Happy Food Co.

BEST FISH/SEAFOOD FIRST PLACE

Jack Russell Fish Co. 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Crazy Joe’s 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Caribbean Hut

BEST FOOD TRUCK FIRST PLACE

Blazing Trails Texas BBQ 892 Illinois 37, West Frankfort (214) 843-4377

DETAILS: We only do Texas Style BBQ … dry rub and all wood smokers.

We put a huge emphasis on quality of Food and customer Service.

We only serve you fresh food that we fix that day.

The Pitmaster is Texas Born and Raised. He has been making Southen Illinois his home for about 5 years. Now he has a little one on the way. “How Welcoming and Supportive Everyone has Been to me and my Family; It’s a dream come true and only makes me want to try harder and harder to be the best I can be.”

The quality of the products we put out. We put in hours for every cook to ensure we only give you our best. Remembering each and every person that comes to our door. We appreciate their support and we love to treat them like family.

Our different styles, techniques, and presentation of products. It’s Texas style and Texas sized!

We are a family owned and operated restaurant, so family is very important to us. We’ve tried to create several family meal deals that’s affordable as well as delicious. We want it to be fun for the kids, so we give big Yeee Hawwww’s and goodies to the little ones.

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Caribbean Hut 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Judy and Shane’s Rollin’ Lumpia

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT FIRST PLACE

BEST FRIED CHICKEN

La Galeria Mexican Cuisine & Creamery

FIRST PLACE

Giant City Lodge 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Bottoms Up 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Wildfires

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Don Sol Marion 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

El Jalisco

READERS’ CHOICE 2021 |

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BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT FIRST PLACE

Cummare’s 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Bennie’s Italian Restaurant 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Alongi’s

BEST MIDDLE EASTERN RESTAURANT FIRST PLACE

Aban Kitchen 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Pita Alley, Carbondale

BEST SANDWICHES

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Thai D

FIRST PLACE

FIRST PLACE

Louie’s P&R

FIRST PLACE

Fujiyama

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Seasoning Bistro

McAlister’s

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

BEST OVERALL RESTAURANT

Yamato

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

3RD PLACE FAVORITE(S)

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Midland Inn

Keepers Quarters Sal’s Bistro

SI Pho

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Giant City Lodge

BEST WINERY

BEST SOUP

BEST PIZZA

FIRST PLACE

StarView Vineyards

FIRST PLACE

FIRST PLACE

Panera Bread

Quatro’s

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Baked on Division

Martel’s Pizza

3RD PLACE FAVORITE(S)

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Alto Vineyards 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Pheasant Hollow

McAllister’s Thai Taste

Walt’s

Thank You For Voting Us Best Kids Party Venue!

2703 17th St., Suite B Marion, IL 62959 618-697-7445 www.thecreativegetaway.com 14

BEST SUSHI

| SUNDAY, MARCH 5, 2022 | READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS 2021

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2021 READERS’ CHOICE FOR

PEOPLE

BEST ACUPUNCTURIST

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

FIRST PLACE

FIRST PLACE

Alternative Health Care and Wellness Center

Kathalynas Spine Sport & Rehab

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Southern Illinois Acupuncture 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Integrated Health of Southern Illinois

Southern Spine and Rehab

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Alternative Health Care and Wellness Center

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST RETIREMENT FACILITY A Supportive Living Community for Seniors

Apartments Available

We work with Medicaid and other payer sources Call to learn more and schedule a tour

Thank You for VoTing us ThE BEsT hair saLon!!

Moving Assistance Provided. • Call for Details.

955 Villa Court, Carbonadale, IL 62901 • 618-351-7955 www.prairieliving-slf.com

3305 E Vienna St., Anna IL 618-833-4634 READERS’ CHOICE 2021 |

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together as a team to provide the very best dental care to the people of southern Illinois.  Each patient is considered part of our family, and we treat them like a family member. All of our staff members show kindness, generosity, love, and support.

Our goal at Settle Dental Group is to make every patient feel welcomed, and comfortable during dental procedures.

We want each patient to be satisfied and confident with their smile. We have a large staff, which means we are able to schedule families together, so they don’t have to spend many hours at the dental office. We understand that having a family means having a busy schedule. We try our very best to work around the patient’s schedule and find them a convenient time for them to come into our office. We feel that we are very accommodating to all patients and their schedule requests.

BEST DENTIST FIRST PLACE

Settle Dental Group DETAILS:

1601 East DeYoung Street, Marion (618) 997-6405 www.settledentalgroup.com

 All of us who work at Settle Dental Group

were born and raised in Southern Illinois.

We are grateful that we get to serve the kindhearted members of this community.

We love being able to provide dental services to so many communities in southern Illinois. Our office is located in Marion, but we have patients that come from all counties. These include Saline, Williamson, Johnson, Franklin, Jackson, Jefferson, Perry, Hardin, Pope, and Gallatin. We can treat a wide range of communities by being centrally located to these counties.

Southern Illinois is a great place to live, and we are thankful that we are able to give the people of this area quality dental care.  We are very honored to be voted best dentist! It means a lot to me personally as a dentist and to my entire staff members.

It is because of our patients that we are given this honor. Our patients put their personal trust in our office, and we make sure all their dental needs are provided.

We can’t thank them enough for showing their appreciation! Thank you to all the patients, friends, and family that gave us this honor! We are truly grateful to serve the communities of Southern Illinois.  We are extremely grateful to have such an amazing, hardworking staff! We have 19 employees that travel from various counties in Southern Illinois to work at our office. We have numerous employee job titles. We have 2 general dentists, 1 pediatric dentist, 4 office managers, 6 dental hygienists, and 6 dental assistants. While each one of us has a different job title, we

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Steele Dental - Lucas Steele 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Murphysboro Smile Design

BEST DOCTOR (GENERAL PRACTICE) FIRST PLACE

Jeff Ripperda, MD 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Eric Graham all work together in treating our patients.

We consider our staff a family, and we work together as a family. Our schedule is always full, which means our employees are always working very hard during the

Thank you for voTing me #1 INSURANCE AGENT #1 FINANCIAl ADVISOR

naTasha sTearns 16

| READERS’ CHOICE 2021

2720 W Main St Marion, IL

618-997-9442

week. Their hard work does not go unnoticed by me as their boss, and by our patients that are treated by them. The name of our office is Settle Dental Group because we are a close group who works

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Mark Korte - Logan Primary Care

ThankYou!!

Southern Illinois For Voting Us Best Furniture Store!!

1 Mile East of Carbondale • 549-8332 • 1-800-276-0088 Hours: Mon-Sat 10-6 • Closed Sunday • www.bradthefurnitureking.com

“like” us on

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR FIRST PLACE

Natasha Stearns Country Financial

Natasha Stearns Country Financial

2720 W Main St, Ste A, Marion (618) 997-9442 DETAILS:

 I have built my book of business from scratch!

I started from complete scratch and built my book into what it is today. I am so thankful for my staff and all the clients that have trusted me to take care of their insurance and financial needs and help me build the book I have today. I love this because I truly feel like my clients have become friends over the years!  I love the people I get to meet in this community and learn so much about. Southern Illinois has some of the nicest, most interesting people and I love all the new friends I get to meet and connect with on a daily basis.  We strive to provide personalized service for each client. We truly want to make you feel like a person and not just a policy number. We want to know about your family, goals, and accomplishments and help you build the future that fits you best.  Winning Readers Choice in not only 1 but 2 categories is absolutely amazing to me and

!

THANK

YOU

and not just a policy number. We want to know about your family, goals, and accomplishments and FIRST PLACE help you build the future that fits you best.  Winning Readers Choice in not only 1 but 2 categories is absolutely amazing to me and my staff. We are always looking for ways to improve client experience and make sure we are truly doing everything we can  I have built my book of business to educate and help plan for every from scratch! I started from comscenario. This just gives a brief secplete scratch and built my book into ond to celebrate that we are doing a what it is today. I am so thankful great job and to keep doing what we for my staff and all the clients that are doing. have trusted me to take care of their  Life With Nash on Facebook gives insurance and financial needs and us a lot of attention. I have several help me build the book I have today. people stop me when I am out in I love this because I truly feel like the community to tell me how much my clients have become friends over they love watching all the crazy the years! things my youngest son does. It  I love the people I get to meet in brings a good laugh to peoples day. this community and learn so much about. Southern Illinois has some of 2ND PLACE FAVORITE the nicest, most interesting people Chris Mueller - State Farm and I love all the new friends I get to meet and connect with on a daily 3RD PLACE FAVORITE basis.  We strive to provide personalized Evan Collier - Bracy service for each client. We truly Insurance want to make you feel like a person

BEST INSURANCE AGENT

my staff. We are always looking for ways to improve client experience and make sure we are truly doing everything we can to educate and help plan for every scenario. This just gives a brief second to celebrate that we are doing a great job and to keep doing what we are doing.  Life With Nash on Facebook gives us a lot of attention. I have several people stop me when I am out in the community to tell me how much they love watching all the crazy things my youngest son does. It brings a good laugh to peoples day.

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Derek Hood - Edward Jones 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Kevin Frost

We couldn’t do it without YOU!

“IF YOU AREN’T FIRST, YOU’RE THIRD!”

WINTER CAMPANELLA voted as BEST LAWYER for the FIFTH YEAR IN A ROW! BEST LAWYER 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 CAMPANELLA LAW FIRM voted as a 2021 FAVORITE.

BEST LAW FIRM 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020

THANK YOU ALL FOR THE VOTES

READERS’ CHOICE 2021 |

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BEST LAWYER FIRST PLACE

BEST MID-LEVEL HEALTH CARE PROVIDER FIRST PLACE

Winter D. Campanella

Danielle Baker

(618) 985-8400 DETAILS:

 I try to treat clients how I would want









to be treated if I needed an attorney. Additionally, I’ve been told I am highly passionate and I would agree with that statement. I understand whatever the issue in the case, it is of upmost importance to the client and I pour my passion into it. I have also been told that I clearly explain the law. It is common for me to hear in a consultation that they have spoken with several of my colleagues and no one every explained their issue so clearly.

My passion, knowledge of the law and my ability to communicate with clients in a way that is effective and they understand.

Being voted Best Lawyer is very meaningful to me. To have individuals take time to vote for me is a sign that my hard work is appreciated.

I have been practicing law for almost 17 years. In that time I have handled thousands of cases. I’m proud of my work for all of my current and past clients but the cases where I can look back and see how my role in the case allowed my client to have a positive impact on the lives of their children or cases where we were able to help a client get out of a dangerous situation are the ones closest to my heart.; As an attorney I try to give back to the Southern Illinois community as much as I am able. I am very active in the Carterville Chamber of Commerce serving as their President for 2022.

I also donate to several Southern Illinois charities regularly.

What am I about? Honesty. Trust is built on a foundation of honesty.

Whether you like what I have to say or not, I’m going to tell you the truth about your case. Clients seem to appreciate this approach.

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Brian Harvey Beard Law Firm 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Aaron Hopkins 18

| READERS’ CHOICE 2021

FNP-C, SIH Urgent Care and Work Care 901 S Commercial Street, Harrisburg 2808 Outer Drive, Marion (618) 993-3817 DETAILS:  I strive to provide my patients with ef-

ficient and quality health care. My goal is to treat all facets of health - this includes the physical, mental, and emotional health of the patients I see and treat.  We served two purposes in our facilities.

SIH Urgent Care and Work Care facilities are two different facets of healthcare in one location. On the Urgent Care side we see patients for acute illnesses, injuries, and concerns. Many times patients come to our facility if their PCP is fully booked or unavailable, or if they feel their needs and concerns do not require an ER visit.

On the Work Care side, we see patients for pre-employment physical examinations, DOT examinations, work-related injuries and follow up appointments, and multiple types of testing and screening exams required by employers. This is just a brief overview of some of the things we are able to do to help accommodate patients in our facilities.  I am a Harrisburg native, and being able to work in my hometown and serve patients in my own community, where I have grown up and still live, is very gratifying.

My husband and I both try to give back to, be very involved in, and supportive of our community as much as possible. Having the opportunity to serve and care for patients in my own community in my job setting is something to look forward to each day.  My patients can always expect me to truly sten, be open-minded, and ensure that optimizing their health is my main goal. I like to give my patients options for treatment when possible. This is one method that I feel can be important in helping and empowering patients take control of their health. Patient education is also extremely crucial to me. By giving knowledge about an illness or chronic condition to my patients, I am trying my very best to set patients up for success.

I am truly honored and extremely humbled to be nominated for this award for a second year. I truly pour my heart and soul into

my career and into the patients I care for.

I’m so grateful and thankful that so many patients feel that I am providing the best care possible for them and their families, and feel that I am worthy of this award again. To know that I have my patients’ complete confidence in the care I am providing is very heartwarming and fulfilling to me.  I’m most proud to work in and serve the community where I live. I started my career as a nurse at Harrisburg Medical Center, and worked there full time for 7 years as I completed my BSN and MSN. I’m blessed to be able to continue to serve patients in my community, now as a nurse practitioner. I am also proud of the support my husband, Jeff, has given me during my education, my career as a nurse, and now in my career as a nurse practitioner. Without his unwavering love and support, I could not do the job I do on a daily basis.  One of the most important skills that I feel contribute to making me a valuable nurse practitioner is truly listening. So

often patients do not feel truly heard, or do not feel that their concerns are addressed. I have made it a point to try and truly listen and be open- minded to each and every one of my patients.  I build trust with my patients by truly listening to their concerns, being openminded, providing quality care that treats the whole patient, and giving options when possible. It is important to me that patients are involved in their plan of care and in making decisions for their health.

By giving solid patient education, I am empowering my patients with the knowledge they need to have a more successful outcome. In my opinion, I have found that this results in much better overall compliance and results for my patients.

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Destiny Petrowich, PA-C, Integrated Health 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Morgan Gant

Thank you for voting us #1 Best Locally Owned Clothing Store!

BEST ORTHODONTIST

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

FIRST PLACE

FIRST PLACE

Joseph Hudgins Orthodontics

Storm Clarry Photography

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Childers Orthodontics

Alanna Milby Photography

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Smile Doctors by Kevin Cook Orthodontics

Kristin Moore Photography

BEST PEDIATRICIAN FIRST PLACE

Tandy Korte SIH Center for Medical Arts 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Lucacz Dabrowski, MD - Center for Medical Arts 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Luis Lopez, MD - Heartland Pediatric Clinic

We appreciate every single one of our customers.

You get #1 for Best Customer!

XO, Lauren Craig & The Eccentrics Team

BEST REALTOR/AGENT FIRST PLACE

Stevie Rae, Broker House 2 Home Realty 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Aaron Coon, Broker - House 2 Home Realty 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Christy Powers Property with TLC

BEST VETERINARIAN FIRST PLACE

Solid Rock Veterinary Clinic 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Troop Veterinary Services 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Central Hospital For Animals

Thank You

For Voting Us #1 Best Dentist!

(618) 997-6405 • 1601 East DeYoung Street, Marion, IL www.settledentalgroup.com READERS’ CHOICE 2021 |

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2021 READERS’ CHOICE FOR

SERVICES

BEST APARTMENT/ HOUSING RENTALS

BEST AUTO REPAIR/ SERVICE SHOP

FIRST PLACE

FIRST PLACE

Grayson Rentals

T’s Tires & Service LLC

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Walker Rentals

PMR Auto

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Property with TLC

Gator Auto

BEST AUCTIONEER

BEST BANK

FIRST PLACE

FIRST PLACE

Doerr’s Auctiony

First Southern Bank

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

301 East Main Street, Carbondale

David Watson Auction Services

301 Tower Square Plaza, Marion

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

114 West Monroe Street, Herrin

Joe Ollis Auction Service

109 E. Walnut Street, Murphysboro (618) 997-4341

BEST AUTO BODY SHOP FIRST PLACE

DETAILS:

Grithers Paint and Body

 What makes us stand out? We take great

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Gator Auto 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Fentons Custom and Collision

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www.firstsouthernbank.net

| READERS’ CHOICE 2021

pride in our customer service and commitment to our communities. When combining that with the fact that we are a locally owned and managed Southern Illinois bank allows us to stand out from the competition.  Consistency in the high level of service provided combined with the capability to provide local decisions from local people provides a long term financial relationship with our customers.  First Southern Bank has 15 convenient locations to serve all your financial needs. A friendly smile and a warm welcome from all our 15 locations.  It is an honor to be voted the Best Bank for 8 years in row. We take great pride in this recognition and are very thankful for

being voted the Best Bank for so many consecutive years.  At First Southern Bank giving back to the community is a top priority. Whether it’s supporting our local schools to lending a hand and voice to our local Chamber of Commerces, Economic Development Committees or Not For Profit Boards we are invested in our communities.  The level of giving does not stop at the bank level, at First Southern Bank the commitment goes right to the core with

their employees. The Employees Caring for Our Community program is 100% employee funded and has raised over $100,000 for local charities.

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Legence Bank 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Farmers State Bank

BEST BARBER SHOP

BEST CATERER

FIRST PLACE

FIRST PLACE

Burg’s Hair Parlour

Crystal’s Catering

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

The Avenue Barbershop 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Ace of Fades

BEST CAR WASH FIRST PLACE

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Cutting Edge Catering 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Debra K’s Catering

BEST CELL PHONE / SCREEN REPAIR

Finish Line 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Wooly Wash 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Panda’s Detailing

FIRST PLACE

UBreakIFix 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

iDoctor 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Verizon

READERS’ CHOICE 2021 |

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BEST CREDIT UNION

BEST ELECTRICIAN

FIRST PLACE

FIRST PLACE

SIU Credit Union

Burke Electric

395 N Giant City Rd, Carbondale

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

1217 W Main, Carbondale

Mike Sullivan Electric

2809 Outer Dr, Marion

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

300 S Pershing, Energy

Service Detectives

(618) 457-3595

BEST FITNESS CENTER

www.siucu.org DETAILS:

FIRST PLACE

 SIU Credit Union is a not-for-profit

financial co-operative where our members are our owners. We offer low interest loans, competitive checking and savings products, along with fewer fees than other financial institutions.  We have six branches in Carbondale (2), Marion, Energy, Harrisburg and Metropolis. If you live or work in one of the lower 24 counties in Illinois, you are eligible to become a member!

People may think that because of the name “SIU Credit Union,” our products and services are just available to SIU staff, students or alumni and that’s NOT the case. Applicants can fill out our quick application at siucu.org and start taking advantage of the benefits of membership.  What do we like most? That we get to exercise our “People Helping People” philosophy with our southern Illinois neighbors. Providing excellent banking products and services helps make all our communities better and stronger.

Being able to reinvest our resources back into the regions we serve is gratifying and fulfilling to our volunteer Board of Directors as well as our staff, and we are very proud to call southern Illinois our home  It’s an honor to be selected as as “The Best” by those we serve within southern Illinois because it means we’re taking care of our membership. It’s rewarding to be recognized by our fellow southern Illinoisans, and we appreciate it very much.

Crossfit RSP 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Rise Performance 618 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

The HUB Recreation Center

BEST FUNERAL HOME FIRST PLACE

Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home 322 North Division Street, Carterville (618) 985-2131 rigginpillatschburkefh.com DETAILS:  Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home

BEST DOG GROOMING SHOP

BEST DRY CLEANER

FIRST PLACE

FIRST PLACE

The Dog House

Horstmann’s

has remained family owned and operated as we have continued the tradition of excellence in funeral service for over 92 years.  We are a full-service funeral home and specialize in traditional, non-traditional, and cremation services, along with pre-arrangement and aftercare services.  We take pride in the level of care and compassion we provide for the families and communities we serve

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Scott Credit Union

Monroe Cleaners

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Bows N Toes Grooming by Morgan

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

GenFed

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Immediate Cleaners

Pyle Funeral Home

Sudzy Paws 22

| READERS’ CHOICE 2021

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Union Funeral Home

BEST HAIR SALON

BEST LAW FIRM

FIRST PLACE

FIRST PLACE

Salon Euphoria

Beard Law Firm

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Faction 93 Salon

Campanella Law Firm (618) 985-8400

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

DETAILS:

Hairography Beauty Studio

 The Campanella Law Firm strives to pro-

BEST HEATING & AIR SERVICE

BEST INSURANCE AGENCY

FIRST PLACE

FIRST PLACE

RSP HVAC 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Pass One Hour Heating and Air 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Fowler Heating and Cooling

BEST HOME REMODELER

Freedom Brokers 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Country Financial/Natasha Stearns 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

State Farm/Chris Mueller

BEST INVESTMENT FIRM

FIRST PLACE

FIRST PLACE

EA Knight Construction

First Southern Wealth Management

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Chad Worthington Construction 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Home at its Best

BEST LANDSCAPING/ HARDSCAPING FIRST PLACE

Plantscape Nursery and Landscape Service 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Creative Scapes 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Greenridge Landscaping

vide excellent service to our clients. We communicate regularly with clients in a clear and honest way. We treat clients how we would want to be treated if we needed an attorney.  What sets us apart? Our knowledgeable attorneys and highly skilled staff; being greeted with a smile by a kind receptionist; speaking with an attorney who is knowledgeable and passionate about the issues in their case. To be treated with respect, dignity and receive nothing but honesty from all who work with the Campanella Law Firm.  What are we about? Honesty. Trust is built on a foundation of honesty. At the Campanella Law Firm clients can trust that we are looking out for their best interest as we are honest with them every step of the way. Clients seem to appreciate this approach.

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Lawler & Brown Law Firm

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Wells Fargo Advisors 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Forbes

Thank You

Thank you for VoTing us

BesT LumBer yard

for Voting us the Best Orthopedic Center!!!

Restoring lifestyles one patient at a time.

Reduce pain. Restore your mobility.

Improve your quality of life.

Orthopaedic Institute of Southern Illinois 510 Lincoln Dr. - Herrin IL, 62948 PH: 618-997-6800 OISIL.com

1300 S Park Ave, Herrin • 618-942-3111 READERS’ CHOICE 2021 |

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BEST MARKETING AGENCY FIRST PLACE

AlterEgo Marketing

clients. When we can provide consistency along with great content and customer service, we can earn our clients trust.

It’s always a work in progress and we are always finding new ways to grow and become better at all 3 of them.

BEST MASSAGE CENTER

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Idea Creative Marketing 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Harness Digital Marketing 210 Hickory St., Carterville (314) 884-1192 www.harnessdigitalmarketing.com DETAILS:  Harness Digital Marketing was partially

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created to build a business model based off the owner’s experience in the military. Tom wanted to create a team atmosphere where every person’s role was key, we knew the person’s job above and below each other, and that the people that worked there cared about the community and giving back.

We believe we have created a caring, positive, and goal based team that makes it a place that you can work hard, take care of our clients needs, and enjoy coming to work every morning.

Community is at the center of our business model. We not only want to help businesses with their digital marketing needs, but be a part of helping the Southern Illinois Community grow and promote how amazing it is to be a part of. One of our biggest passions is to support Veteran owned businesses, organizations, and events throughout the region. Giving them a voice to be heard.

Our passion and foundation at Harness Digital Marketing is to give back and be a part of the Southern Illinois Community. Over the 11 years we have helped various organizations promote their events, raise money, and even start their non-profits.

We are Veteran based in our community service, but have helped many other organizations that have had big impacts on the region. It’s because of those organizations, we work hard to take care of our clients so we can give back, not just monetarily, but of our time.

We have the 3 C’s at Harness Digital Marketing: Customer Service, Consistency, & Content. Our team wants to provide the best of all 3 while always evolving and making them better. We know that we are willing to go above and beyond for our

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| READERS’ CHOICE 2021

FIRST PLACE

Integrated Health of Southern Illinois 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Alternative Health Care and Wellness Center 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Genesis Salon and Spa

BEST MENTAL HEALTH FACILITY FIRST PLACE

Integrated Health of Southern Illinois 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Egyptian Health Department 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Centerstone

BEST ORTHOPEDIC SERVICE FIRST PLACE

The Orthopaedic Institute 510 Lincoln Drive, Herrin 1101 Diann Lane, Carbondale OISI—SIU Student Health Center, 374 East Grand, Carbondale (618) 997-6800 www.oisil.com DETAILS:  We are an independent, physician-owned

organization. Our patients come to us because they know they will be taken care of in a timely, professional manner and have great outcomes.  What sets us apart? High Quality Care.

We provide the highest quality of care in Southern Illinois for orthopaedics, neurosurgery, interventional pain, and podiatry.  Our doctors have been in this community for over 20+ years. While several are born and bred in Southern Illinois, they have been trained at institutions such as Kerlan Jobe at Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles, UC-San Diego, Hughston Sports Clinic in Georgia, and the Mayo Clinic. Over the years, we have served as team physician for the Augusta National Golf Tournament, Tulane University, Los Angeles Angels, New York Yankees, and many football, baseball and basketball professional games.  We create a family-like atmosphere.

While we are a big proponent of diversity; we treat each and every employee and patient like family.  What are we all about? Opportunity.

We are one of the last independent physician practices across the nation.

Because of our ability to adapt to the ever-changing healthcare landscape, there is ample opportunity to serve our communities in Southern Illinois. Smiling, caring faces. We understand you hurt, and we are here to help. We will do whatever we can to serve you in the most professional, caring, and fiscally

responsible way.

 How do we feel about the award? Hon-

ored! We thank you for your dedication to the Orthopaedic Institute! We are here for you and will continue to provide the highest quality of orthopaedic care that you deserve!  We are most proud of the development of our surgery center. SIOC is connected to our main clinic office in Herrin. The ability for our patients to receive surgical care without going through the hoops and levels of a large hospital, is more reassuring for our patients.  Here at OISI, we have a service first mindset. In our communities, we focus on our school systems, soups kitchens, and various charitable institutions.  Our employees enjoy working at the Marion Ministerial Alliance on their service days and we focus our Annual Christmas giving and donations towards the Women’s Center in Carbondale.

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Southern Illinois Orthopedic Center 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

SIH Spine & Brain Institute

BEST OUTDOOR BUILDINGS FIRST PLACE

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY CENTER FIRST PLACE

Tru-Bilt Buildings

Alternative Health Care and Wellness Center

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Cook Buildings 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Cardinal Buildings

BEST PEST CONTROL FIRST PLACE

Rowe Pest Control

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Elevate Therapy & Performance 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Joyner Therapy Center

BEST PLUMBER FIRST PLACE

A&W Plumbing

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Envirotech

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Absolute Plumbing

Egyptian Exterminating

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

BEST PET RESCUE/ ADOPTION CENTER

BEST PRINTING FIRST PLACE

St. Francis CARE Finding Forever Animal Rescue 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Wright Way Rescue

BEST PHARMACY

Silkworm 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Family Drug

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Hill Printing 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

PS Ink

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY FIRST PLACE

FIRST PLACE

J&S Professional Pharmacy

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Baker and Sons Plumbing

FIRST PLACE

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

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Century 21 House of Realty

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612 North Market Street, Marion 108 West Plaza Drive, Carterville 400 West Main Street, Carbondale 2097 Lake of Egypt Road, Marion

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

BuySIHomes.com

Medicine Shoppe

DETAILS:  For over 40 years we have provided ex-

ceptional systems and tools to care for our customers and clients backed by a sales

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team devoted to providing exceptional service in the listing, sale or purchase of real estate throughout southern Illinois.

What sets us apart? Longevity in the business with a relentless pursuit of quality service. Purchased by Richard and Janie Davis in 2006, CENTURY 21 House of Realty, Inc. has consistently ranked at the top of the service scale when it comes to returned surveys and in 2021 receiving a 97% ranking in service excellence.

We are actually the longest continuing real estate brand of real estate company in all of southern Illinois. We have a reputation for retaining our sales team of brokers.

There is a lot of competition in this industry and we take pride in the fact that our team is as committed to giving quailty service to our clients above all else. That is our mission as Managing Brokers/Owners and it is what makes our team stand out from the rest.

The main goal is to see to it that our clients trust in the service we provide. We take great pride in the service we expect and receive from our team and we try to reward our brokers consistently for the job that they do. This is truly seen when we have repeat business over and over again from clients who return to us when the need for Real Estate service arises. This is our proof of knowing that the service they received the first time was a sign of what kind of service they will always receive.

Our customers can expect to be treated with the highest respect, regardless of the type of Real Estate service they are needing. Whether they are interested in buying or selling a piece of property for $5000 or $500,000, they are just as important to us and we are dedicated to helping them to the very best of our ability.

Honestly, we are proud of our team of Brokers who we trust every day with every transaction, knowing that they are going to give those clients the best possible service.

Problems can arise as each transaction is unique unto itself. We have trained our team with the best systems available, but

we also know that sometimes it is the human touch that makes or breaks a deal. If and when problems arise, our Brokers take every step to take these stressful situations and through their commitment to their clients, get the resources needed to see to it that any problem that is in any way in our ability to solve , we solve. This is how our “clients” become our friends. That is the goal. That is what makes us most proud.  This is a topic near and dear to our hearts.

Giving back to our communities has always been a top priority to us. From sponsoring local sports teams, to proudly sponsoring area Chamber of Commerces on community events, to city and township events, and school functions to donations to local food pantries, local charities including The Poshard Foundation for Abused Children to hosting an annual donation to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. It would be hard to name all of the sponsorships and donations made throughout the years, but CENTURY 21 House of Realty, Inc. proudly is committed to sharing and caring for our communites and the people who live here.  We give our clients a signed Pledge that states if for any reason that they are unhappy with the service we provide, they give us notification of whatever they feel needs addressing, and if we don’t make that issue right in their eyes, we release them from any signed commitment that they have with us. We are proud to say, that over the years the number of times that we have had to address these kind of issues are so minimal they don’t even make the charts. With a 97% Quality Service ranking, we are proud of our accomplishments in the area we feel is most important and that comes directly from our clients themselves and the testimonials and written reviews they give to us.

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

House 2 Home Realty 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Keller Williams Pinnacle Realty READERS’ CHOICE 2021 |

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BEST RETIREMENT FACILITY FIRST PLACE

Prairie Living at Chautauqua 955 Villa Ct, Carbondale (618) 351-7955 https://prairieliving-slf.com/ DETAILS:  We have CNAs, LPNs, and an RN on staff to assist our residents

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with their needs. While it is difficult to put a specific price tag on these services, someone who is taking their medications when and as they should, is eating properly, and is actively socializing with others should be a much lower risk for Emergency Room visits, hospitalizations, and nursing home care.

We are affordable to all. Whether you are private pay or need some financial assistance, we can help. Many people can afford it now but maybe not in the future. If you run out of money you don’t have to leave the facility or even change apartments.

The Residents! Seniors can be some of the best people to work around. They are wise, caring, funny and truly appreciate the time they have with others. Southern Illinois has many great attractions and activities that our residents can partake in. Our Resident Services Coordinator is a recent SIU graduate with a degree in Therapeutic Recreation. While in school, she enjoyed lots of outdoor activities in the area and now she shares all those great places with the residents! Bald Knob, Rendleman Orchard, Shawnee Country Store, and Lake Chautauqua are a few of the fun places we have been in the last year.

What sets us apart? Prairie Living just feels like Home! Our facility was designed and built in Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie Style. Frank referred to his work as Organic. “Entirely appropriate to its place, to its time, and to its user.” From the brick archways as you approach the building, to the large open windows throughout the building, down to the stained-glass light fixtures. Every detail was thought thru in the design process.

It is an honor to know that our community supports us and voted us #1. Being here for 18 years now, we have had the privilege of helping a lot of families in the community. It’s a great feeling hearing that someone wants to live here because another family members use to live here and loved it.

We treat everyone just like family. Whether you’re a prospective resident touring our facility, current resident, or employee.

Everyone is treated with Love, Compassion, and Dignity. Being locally owned and managed is helpful too. Our owner has an office in the building as do all the management staff. If you need something, there is always someone here that can help.

We support the Alzheimer’s Association with sponsorship of the annual walk to raise money. We donate to and work at the local food pantries. We support the Superhero 5k, and SIU scholarship foundation. Because we are locally owned & managed, we want to be a part of the Southern Illinois communities we serve.

BEST ROOFING SERVICES FIRST PLACE

Integrity Roofing & Exteriors 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

The Landings of Carbondale 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

The Voyage Senior Living 26

| READERS’ CHOICE 2021

Reynolds Exteriors & Coatings 3RD PLACE FAVORITE(S)

Baine Roofing Clover Roofing

BEST SOLAR INSTALLER FIRST PLACE

RSP Solar 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

AES Solar | Advanced Energy Solutions 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

StraightUp Solar

BEST SPA FIRST PLACE

Alternative Healthcare and Wellness 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Genesis Salon and Spa 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Oasis Skin & Wellness Center Inc

BEST TATTOO PARLOR FIRST PLACE

Artistic Minds 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Bomber Crew Tattoo 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Lost Love Tattoo

BEST TRAVEL AGENCY FIRST PLACE

Mindy’s Miles Travel Agency 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

EZ Travel Sparta IL 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Thunderbird Travel

BEST VISION CENTER FIRST PLACE

Complete Family Eyecare 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Marion Eye Center 3RD PLACE FAVORITES

20/20 Vision Crabtree and Merriman READERS’ CHOICE 2021 |

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2021 READERS’ CHOICE FOR

SHOPPING

BEST ANTIQUES/ COLLECTIBLES SHOP FIRST PLACE

Warehouse Antique Mall 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Countree Peddler 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Rosebud Antiques

BEST AUTO DEALER NEW FIRST PLACE

Marion Toyota 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Watermark Ford 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Watermark Nissan

BEST AUTO DEALER PRE-OWNED FIRST PLACE

Vogler Motor Co.

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Marion Toyota

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Whimsy, A Children’s Clothing Store 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Perfectly Posh

BEST FLOORING SHOP FIRST PLACE

Karpet Korner

 Our motto? Always put yourself in the

position of the customer and attempt to imagine yourself in their position; be very upfront and clear with pricing and service.  We donate a fair amount of flooring and service in the area and always support local schools and sports teams in advertising.  We offer true value in flooring. We work very hard to bring the BEST products available at the absolute best prices possible. No one will ever beat our prices and we will never sell anything for your home that we wouldn’t put in our homes.

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Floorscapes 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Flooring Now

1003 N Pentecost Rd, Marion

FIRST PLACE

The Bike Surgeon of Southern Illinois 2ND PLACE FAVORITE 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

www.voglerford.com

Carbondale Cycle

| READERS’ CHOICE 2021

Two Bugs and a Bean

BEST BICYCLE SHOP

(618) 457-8135

people. We are not a high-pressure car dealer. The feeling that they are treated fairly. The ability to deal with someone they’ve done business with before. We know them, and they know us.  We’ll be celebrating 100 years in business in Carbondale next year. We’ve always been locally owned and we still operate based on the same principles that were established 99 years ago by the Vogler family. Honesty, Integrity, and Trust mean

FIRST PLACE

Watermark Ford

Phoenix Cycles

 What sets us apart? The way we treat

BEST CHILDREN’S CLOTHING STORE

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

1170 E Main St, Carbondale

DETAILS:

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a lot to us.; ; ; It means a lot to know that the people who do business with us voted us #1 again this year. We’ve won at least one category every year The Southern has had Reader’s Choice, dating back to 2013.  What’s our motto? Listen to what the customer is saying. Determine what it will take to help meet the need or solve the problem. Be honest with the customer. Do whatever is possible to mutually come up with a solution that is fair to both the customer and the place of business.  We support SIU Athletics in many ways.

We also support local schools through our Drive One Events. We’ve raised over $120,000 for our local high schools through that program.

BEST BUTCHER SHOP FIRST PLACE

Small’s Meat Market 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Louie’s P&R 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Big Muddy Hogs

600 S Jackson St, Harrisburg 2818 E 48th Street, Chattanooga TN (618) 993-6319 www.karpetkornerinc.com DETAILS:  We have the largest inventory of floor cov-

ering in the 4 state area, over 500,000 sf in stock. Our service, selection, and pricing are the best. Great selection, prices, value, and service.

We are locally owned and operated by the same family since 1963. We work very hard to provide amazing value and low prices.  We have great employee retention because we pay well, provide free health insurance, 2 weeks paid vacation, and a low stress environment  What are we about? Great people and support for the area. Great prices, large selection, low pressure salesmen, very clean and maintained store, and very friendly staff.  We appreciate the support of the area and it means we’ve been recognized for our efforts. We are proud of the business and the relationships we’ve built in a service industry.

BEST FLORIST FIRST PLACE

Fox’s Flowers 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Buds 2 Blooms 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Etcetera Flowers and Gifts

BEST FURNITURE SHOP FIRST PLACE

Furniture King 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Anderson’s Furniture 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Bryan Furniture

BEST GIFT SHOP FIRST PLACE

Stevens Floral, Gifts & Framing 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Lavish Bath Box 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Etcetera Flowers & Gifts

BEST HARDWARE STORE FIRST PLACE

Murdale Ace Hardware 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Wright Building Center 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Menard’s

 What sets us apart? Our huge selection,

the atmosphere and the one on one attention. You never know what to expected when walking in the door at Perfectly Posh Boutique! I love to change things up all the time. You will always be greeted, and you will smell our favorite sent that has been with us for 8 years. It means a lot to all of us!  This store is my life. I work it day and night. It makes it all worth it every time I see a customer walk in the door. I may be working in the back room, but can hear the customers talking about how much they love everything. It makes me smile. t’s not an easy job keeping up with it all, but we work as a team everyday making it happen.  I am most proud of my employees, current and past. I have watched so many of them grow up in a way. They may start in high school and then on to college. I have watched them struggle between school and their job, but always push to succeed. You may recognize some former Perfectly Posh Boutique employees as local area teachers, nurses, OTA’s, ultrasound techs, or Physician Assistants. So proud of them all!

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

The Creative Getaway 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

BEST HOME DECOR FIRST PLACE

Perfectly Posh Boutique 305 W Main Street, Marion (618) 969-7115 https://perfectlyposhboutique.com/ DETAILS:  Every item in the store I have handpicked

myself. I take time before making a decision on any purchase.  I love working one on one with my customers. Sometimes it takes me a little bit to remember a name, I have never been good at that, but I always remember a face.

Magpie Market

BEST JEWELRY STORE FIRST PLACE

J. Bacher Fine Jewelry 301 N. Commercial St., Harrisburg (618) 253-4367 www.jbacher.com DETAILS:  We stray away from overly mass-produced

pieces, focusing on well-made mountings that are going to last a long time and fine diamonds and gemstones that are cut to excellence for ultimate brilliance. The majority of our pieces are either hand-forged in-house or created right here in the United States. We know the importance of supporting small businesses, so we pride ourselves on partnering with other small family businesses in the industry, to provide you with unique and quality fine jewelry. We’re not your typical jewelry store, nor do we want to be. Don’t see it? We’ll make it. You deserve the best and we’re happy to provide you with it.  We like to build a rapport with our clients and treat everyone like they’re family. You’re not just another face walking through our door. Unlike the chain stores, we don’t have pushy sales associates, nor do we outsource our repairs. So, when you visit us in-store, you see can see the jewelers that are working on your special pieces, in-house. We have fair pricing and quality products that we stand behind.  Our family has been in the fine jewelry industry for over a hundred years. And, although we’ve had different locations/ stores, our focus is still the same—you, our customers. It’s nice to have a job that you love. We’re currently 5th generation and almost feel like it’s in our DNA.  Over the years, we have witnessed such an incredible amount of support and outpouring of love within our community.

From the flood in 2007 to the tornado in 2012, COVID-19, and everything else in between, we’ve watched all of our local towns come together as one. And, through the years, we continue to see a

growth of more individuals supporting small businesses, such as ours. We are truly blessed to call this home and cannot thank everyone enough for their continued support and love.

We’re not your traditional type of jewelry store. Our staff is down-to-earth and here to assist you in whatever you may need. We never want you to feel pressured into buying anything. No matter if it’s a simple watch battery replacement, jewelry inspection/ cleaning, a repair on your favorite necklace, or a completely custom one-of-akind engagement ring, we’re here to help.  Being voted #1 three years in a row is such an honor. Our goal is to provide you with the best and this award shows us that you believe in us. We cannot thank everyone enough for their continued support of our family’s small business and will continue to strive for excellence.

Truly, it’s our community. We’re honored to be a part of the wonderful and supportive Southern Illinois family.  When you walk through our doors, you’re family. Whatever you need, we’re here to help you to the utmost of our ability.

Some stores view their customers as a sale that must be made. At J. Bacher, we don’t push credit applications, phony discounts, or urge you to buy something.

We’re low-key, friendly, and want you to feel relaxed when you’re here.  On multiple occasions when our community has faced devastation, we matched all scrap gold payments made to individuals that sold their jewelry. All proceeds went directly to our town to help repair and rebuild. Although we cannot help every cause, we try to do as much as we can to help out individuals, families, and other causes throughout each year.

Honesty. We’re not here to simply sell you on something nor do we play the discount game. There are many places that will add in an extra markup simply to be able to offer you a “discount”. That is not us.

Our prices are calculated all the same and fairly. You don’t have to worry about the next person walking in getting a better deal, or the need to ask, “will you be having a sale soon?”. We value you and want to make sure you are getting a quality product at a good price, every day. Questions are welcome too and we love when you do so. There are many things with jewelry that most individuals don’t know or understand. We’re here to help educate and answer anything that you may be unsure of.

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Your Jeweler 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

TJ’s Fine Jewelry READERS’ CHOICE 2021 |

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BEST LIQUOR STORE FIRST PLACE

Speakeasy Liquors 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Westroad Liquor Mart 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

A J’s Beer Wine & Spirit’s

BEST LOCALLY OWNED CLOTHING STORE FIRST PLACE

Eccentrics Boutique 209 West Commercial Drive, Suite D, Carterville (618) 681-2177 www.eccentricsboutique.com DETAILS:

can expect to find the latest in fashionable jewelry including Enewton or Kendra Scott. Other items found in-store or online include bath and body products, specialty paper products, candles, and other unique gift items. We do everything possible to provide a positive shopping experience for our customers as well as providing amazing customer service!  The mission of Eccentrics Boutique is to give back to the community. We identify several community agencies each year and give back in some capacity. We also give our customers the opportunity to participate in the give backs also. We typically provide over 100 gift bags for auctions raising funds for local charities as well.  We do our best to treat our customers in a manner in which they want to be treated!

Each person has a different style, unique personality, and is on a life journey that might not be so easy. Our customers are family, therefore we do our best to be honest and sensitive to their individual situation.

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| READERS’ CHOICE 2021

FIRST PLACE

Co-Op Grocery Store 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

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BEST LUMBER YARD FIRST PLACE

Southside Lumber

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2ND PLACE FAVORITE 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Perfectly Posh  Every item in the store I have handpicked

 Eccentrics Boutique believes it is important

to stand true to who we are and what we represent. We believe each store has its own identity, culture and image. We put our heart into what we do; we are constantly focused on what we can do to improve our business and relationship with our customers. Each season, we try to find items that our customers will love! Our perfectly curated outfits can be ordered online or found with the assistance of our in-store stylists.

We also specialize in assisting our customers find the perfect gift for wife, girlfriend, daughter or friend. You will find a cute new shirt or t-shirt, a nice selection of beautiful upscale jewelry, bath and beauty products and specialty paper products. Our service to you, our customer, is what makes your shopping experience special! Shop online at www.eccentricsboutique.com.  We started 10 years ago, in the loft space of my in-laws’ jewelry store. With just 400 square foot of space, our little business grew in size and service to our customers! We never dreamed what we would be today! There have been many challenges along the way, and we are still learning, but God has put us right where we are supposed to be!  When shopping for a new outfit, our customers can expect to be greeted by our stylist then assisted with their search to find the perfect piece for their event or closet.

We can identify a variety of styles and price points for the perfect fit! Or maybe they are considering a jewelry purchase. They

BEST LOCALLY OWNED GROCERY

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myself. I take time before making a decision on any purchase.

I love working one on one with my customers. Sometimes it takes me a little bit to remember a name, I have never been good at that, but I always remember a face.

What sets us apart? Our huge selection, the atmosphere and the one on one attention.

You never know what to expected when walking in the door at Perfectly Posh Boutique! I love to change things up all the time.

You will always be greeted, and you will smell our favorite sent that has been with us for 8 years. It means a lot to all of us!

This store is my life. I work it day and night. It makes it all worth it every time I see a customer walk in the door. I may be working in the back room, but can hear the customers talking about how much they love everything. It makes me smile. t’s not an easy job keeping up with it all, but we work as a team everyday making it happen.

I am most proud of my employees, current and past. I have watched so many of them grow up in a way. They may start in high school and then on to college. I have watched them struggle between school and their job, but always push to succeed. You may recognize some former Perfectly Posh Boutique employees as local area teachers, nurses, OTA’s, ultrasound techs, or Physician Assistants. So proud of them all!

3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Kenz Boutique

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BEST TIRE DEALER FIRST PLACE

Plaza Tire Service 161 East Vienna Street, Anna; 618-833-2129 1503 East Fifth Street, Metropolis; 618-524-7939 610 East Main Street, Carbondale; 618-457-0309 801 Walnut Street, Murphysboro; 618-687-4525 1207 Enterprise Way, Marion; 618-997-5211 417 S. Washington, Du Quoin; 618-542-2777 702 W. Main Street, Benton; 618-435-3900 310 N. Market, Sparta; 618-443-5300 403 South 42nd Street, Mt Vernon; 618-360-1006 www.PlazaTireService.com DETAILS:  Selection is a key differentiator for Plaza

Tire Service. While the trend among tire stores has been to reduce inventory and follow a just-in-time model where tires are ordered after a customer arrives, our approach is different.  We focus on having a huge selection of tires in stock for immediate installation. We keep each of our stores stocked with at least 1,000 tires, and several are closer to 2,000 tires.

Our service is

top-notch. We provide a clean, welcoming atmosphere with friendly employees. We work to get our customers’ automotive services performed in a timely manner so they can be back on the road as quickly as possible.  We’ve been doing business in Southern Illinois for more than 40 years. We have a culture of developing our own talent.

We have employees who have started as technicians, moved into mechanic or service manager roles. Some of those employees have gone on to sales positions within the company and even become managers.  When entering our stores, customers can expect a friendly person behind the coun-

ter and a clean, comfortable area where they can wait for their vehicle. It means we are on the right track. Plaza Tire Service is always looking for opportunities to improve. What changes can we make to streamline our processes and make services faster for our customers? How can we outfit our waiting areas to be more comfortable? Or to make it easier for people who want to work on their laptops while they wait? This recognition means we are moving in the right direction.  What sets us apart? Our people. At its core, our business is about having the best people in the roles they are most suited to perform. A technician with attention to detail, a salesperson who is knowledgeable and friendly... this is a huge part of the impression that is made on our customers. Speed. We recognize people don’t have the time (or desire) to spend their time waiting for their vehicle to be serviced. We work to provide topquality service as quickly as possible.

Plaza Tire Service supports a variety of organizations and fundraisers... from schools and community groups looking for donations to support their silent auctions and events, to community benefits for individuals or families facing particular hardships. Transparency. We want to

be as upfront as possible with our customers. If during our inspection as part of an oil change, the air filter is filthy, we show it to the customer rather than just telling them about it. Our shops have windows that look out into the bays so customers can see the work on their vehicles. Our invoices are broken down line by line so all charges are clearly identifiable.

2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Holt’s Tire 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Best One Tire

BEST TOY STORE FIRST PLACE

Jack and Josie’s Toy & Candy Store 2ND PLACE FAVORITE

Makanda Trading Company 3RD PLACE FAVORITE

Whimsy

YEEE HAWWWW!!!!!!

#1 for BEST BBQ!!!

AND BEST FOOD TRUCK!!

Bringing REAL Texas BBQ to Southern Illinois!! As someone born and raised in Texas it’s my goal to only serve y’all up the best Texas style bbq you’ve ever had!

Family owned and operated!

Friday and Saturdays

11-7

Follow us on facebook to see our location

(214) 843-4377 READERS’ CHOICE 2021 |

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| SUNDAY, MARCH 5, 2022 | READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS 2021