Reader Raves 2026 Winners
BY TIERA N. WRIGHT
Special to The Republican
Get ready for liftoff; readers have raved again!
It’s only natural that after celebrating our everyday superhero’s last year, that this year’s Reader Raves would gravitate towards “a galaxy far, far away”. With a groundswell of community support, astronomical bragging rights, and the promise of a coveted Reader Raves plaque, this year’s winners can’t help but be over the moon.
Among the 100 categories, new winners include Dakin Humane Society for Best Veterinary Clinic; Cal’s Wood Fired Grill and Bar for Best Waitstaff; and Tandem Bagel for Best Bagel Shop. Repeat winners who continue to defy gravity include Durocher Florist, Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, and Phillips Insurance Agency for Best Flower Shop, Best City or Town Local Official and Best Local Insurance Agency, respectively.
This year’s stellar Reader Raves winners will be honored at the annual Reader Raves Celebration, which will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. While accepting their award, Reader Raves 2026 winners and their guests will enjoy a celebratory evening of food, fun, and plenty of surprises you won’t see coming. Reader Raves winners will receive two complimentary tickets, while tickets thereafter can be purchased for $95 each by visiting ReaderRaves2026.rsvpify.com, or by contacting Coleen Dunn at 413788-1250 or CDunn@repub. com. Wednesday, October 1, 2025, is the last day to RSVP. Amassing over 41,000 category votes, voting for Reader Raves 2026 launched on Sunday, June 1, 2025, and concluded on Sunday, July 27, 2025. Throughout that period, participants were able to vote for their favorite business (once per valid
email address on ReaderRaves. com) falling under the categories of Recommended Services, Where to Shop, Food, Fun & Fitness, and Ask a Local. Not to be eclipsed, our Reader Raves’ recipients aren’t the only winners! Participants who voted in 25 or more categories were entered into a drawing to win a gift card to a Reader Raves category winner of their choice. Congratulations go out to our grand prize winner Erin Chrusciel, who won a $500 Frigo’s Gourmet Foods gift card as well as our second-place winner, Courtney Evans who won a $250 Big Y gift card. Lastly, Emily Critch won a $150 gift card to Iron Ink.
As always, Reader Raves wouldn’t come together without the team of staff who plan it. Most notably, special thanks and recognition are extended to Dave Brinnel (Dave’s Creative), Michelle Johnson, Coleen Dunn, Gretchen Halasi-Kun, Curtis Panlilio, Sophia Kelleher,
John Mazzulli, and Reader Raves emcee, Mark French. So, let’s roll out the red carpet and congratulate this year’s shooting stars— the 2026 Reader Raves winners!
Special
Nguyen, Steve Smith, Nate Blais and Steve Nanton.
thanks to the photographers for this Reader Raves Special Section: Douglas Hook, Hoang ‘Leon’
Here is Mark French, Chief Revenue Officer for the Springfield Republican and Reader Raves Winners’ Celebration emcee.
HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican
If the name Basia Belz sounds familiar, you might have already read her name associated with her Vivid Hair Salon & Spa, which received a Reader Raves for Best Hair Salon.
But that’s not all.
The Southwick resident has also been named a Community Hero in the Reader Raves 2026 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive.
“I started crying when I learned about the award. I didn’t even know about the category, so I was shocked and never expected to be acknowledged for something that comes natural to me,” Belz said.
“’I’m incredibly honored and deeply grateful to be named the Reader Raves 2026 Community Hero. Helping others has always been my greatest passion,” she added.
Over the years, Belz noted she has “been blessed” with opportunities to serve her community in ways that “truly make a difference.” Alongside her
Best Community Hero
Basia Belz
team at Vivid Hair Salon & Spa, she has worked to raise thousands of dollars for cancer awareness, help purchase wigs and hairpieces for those in need, and host dozens of events that bring hope, comfort, and support to others.
Her journey has been filled with moments the Community Hero noted she will “cherish forever.” Moments like receiving the BusinessWest 40 Under 40 award, being named a Shining Star for dancing the night away as a celebrity performer for Fancy Steps benefiting the Holyoke Children’s Museum and helping raise $25,000 for UNIFY Against Bullying during her years as a board member.
“Giving back is the heartbeat of my life and my business. Through Vivid Cares, our salon’s monthly community give-back program, we rally together to support local causes— whether it’s collecting school supplies, running food drives, sponsoring kids’ sports teams, organiz -
ing cut-a-thons, or making sure children in our area have gifts to open during the holidays,” Belz said.
“This award isn’t just
mine—it belongs to every person who has ever donated, volunteered, or shown up to make a difference. From the bottom of my
heart—thank you for this honor. I promise to keep paying it forward, one act of kindness at a time,” she added.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Best Home Heating and Cooling serviCe
Berkshire heating and air Conditioning
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to The Republican Voters in the Reader Raves 2026 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive were “hot” to select Berkshire Heating & Air Conditioning in West Springfield as Top Home Heating Cooling Service.
Berkshire Heating & Air Conditioning is a full-service HVAC contractor providing 24/7 heating repair, maintenance, and installation to keep you warm and comfortable during the cold winter. Or whether you need a quick A/C repair, maintenance, or the installation of a new system, their trained technicians have you covered. Air quality is important, and you can improve the indoor air quality of your home by choosing from humidification control, UV germicidal lights, air purification, filtration,
and more. They have been servicing Hampden and Hampshire counties since 1971.
“It is a huge honor and a very nice surprise to be recognized as a Reader Raves winner, and I think it really speaks to our
And part of their success is always being there for customers.
“We always answer the phone,” Ward said about their 24/7 service.
“It is a huge honor and a very nice surprise to be recognized as a Reader Raves winner, and I think it really speaks to our far-reaching client base and to readership of the newspaper.”
“Now that the colder weather is right around the corner, the last thing you want to happen is for your heating system to break down in the middle of a cold December night. And we have a labor force of expertly trained service technicians to help,” he added.
far-reaching client base and to readership of the newspaper,” said Mike Ward, general manager, Berkshire Heating & Air Conditioning.
“We have a solid reputation.....a family-owned business .....and we know what it takes to be successful – the customer always comes first,” he added.
To help your budget, Berkshire Heating & Air Conditioning has financing options so you can buy today and pay for your home comfort system over time.
Berkshire Heating & Air Conditioning is located at 8 Capital Drive in West Springfield.
For more information, or to request a free estimate or service, call 413271-7405.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican
The late Lady Bird Johnson once said, “Where flowers bloom so does hope.”
And there are plenty of luminous blooms at Durocher Florist voted Best Flower Shop in the Reader Raves 2026 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive.
It is the shops 12th consecutive win.
“It’s wonderful. We love being a part of the Reader Raves family. We have made a commitment to the community and our customers over the years, and it is nice to get feedback by being voted ‘best’ by all our loyal customers who we thank for this honor,” said owner Heather Sullivan, AIFD, CFD, who managed Du-
IBest Flower shop Durocher Florist
rocher Florist for 24 years before becoming owner in 2019.
“The award tells us that the public recognizes our strong commitment to the community and the quality of our product, which we have worked so very hard to remain consistent since original owner Bob Durocher opened the shop in Springfield in the late 1940s,” she added.
In addition to offering their customers exceptional floral designs for all occasions - birthdays to anniversaries, Valentine’s Day to Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, weddings to funerals, Hispanic Heritage Month and so many other reasons including “just because” - Durocher Florist sells a variety of plants,
locally made gifts, gourmet baskets, memory lanterns, and more. Their commitment to the community does not go unnoticed, including sponsoring the Annual Festival of Flowers at the Springfield Museums, donating their
time and designs for the Holiday Tour of Homes by the West Springfield Boys & Girls Club, and in many other ways.
Durocher Florist is located at 184 Union St. in West Springfield. Hours are Monday
am honored and humbled for the belief, faith, trust and the vote of confidence the voters of Reader Raves have in me and my administration. Thank you to Reader Raves and to all who voted; receiving this prestigious award and recognition for 12 years now is truly meaningful and deeply appreciated. As the longest serving Mayor in Springfield’s history, I love and live this job 24/7 and accept this award again on behalf of my family, tested and true staff, cabinet and department heads, and down to our rank and file for their continued dedicated efforts for our city.” I am proud and grateful to serve as Mayor for our great City of Springfield. Thank you and go Team Springfield!
Domenic J. Sarno
Mayor, City of Springfield
through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For more information, to order flowers or have them delivered, visit durocherflorist.com or call 413-7855148.
PHOTO BY HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN
Best LocaL Pet Groomer
New Leash oN Life Dog groomiNg
“My husband came up with the clever title when we were throwing around names in our dining room. And it fits. When dogs come in looking ragged, this is their spa day giving them a new lease, or as we call it, leash, on life.”
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican
Who doesn’t want a new lease on life when offered one during life’s ups and downs?
The same goes for animals, especially dogs, being pampered at New Leash On Life Dog Grooming in Westfield.
“My husband came up with the clever title when we were throwing around names in our dining room. And it fits. When dogs come in looking ragged, this is their spa day giving them a new lease, or as we call it, leash, on life,” said Vivian Kalis, who helps manage the business for her daughter Rachel Kalis.
“Our daughter is a natural when she picks up those scissors. She was born to do this. And the groomer she worked for before opening New Leash On Life Dog Grooming recognized her innate talent which encouraged her to eventually open her own business in 2021,” she added.
Now, four years and hundreds of haircuts and baths later, her customers continue to recognize the love, care, and attention she gives to each of her doggie clients by again voting New Leash On Life and Kalis as top Local Pet Groomer in the Reader Raves 2026
annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive.
All are welcome – dog breeds of all shapes, sizes and coat types, as well as senior and disabled dogs who may use a wheelchair or need special care.
And it is not just for dogs, but cats, too.
“My daughter loves all creatures and is passionate about small animals. She has a good heart,” Kalis said.
For those who don’t feel comfortable grooming their littlest of friends at home, Kalis offers small animal grooming for rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets and more.
In fact, business is so good that Kalis is currently hiring full or part-time experienced groomers who share her passion and expertise. Emal resumes to nlolgrooming@ gmail.com or call 413-3200805.
Located on 1144 Southampton Rd. in Westfield, New Leash On Life hours are Sunday through Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Friday and Saturday.
For more information on services and pricing, visit newleashonlifegrooming.com or email nlolgrooming@gmail. com.
PHOTO BY STEVE SMITH
Best Beauty salon
ViVid Hair Salon and Spa
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican
Who doesn’t like a little pampering now and then.
Maybe a new hairstyle to give you a fresh look, even a new outlook on life, especially if you combine that with a relaxing facial, massage and a makeover at the spa.
Where can you get the pampering you deserve? At Vivid Hair Salon & Spa in Westfield, where clients who leave the salon feeling beautiful, relaxed and, yes, totally pampered, voted Vivid Hair Salon & Spa as Best Beauty Salon in the Reader Raves 2026 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive.
“We are honored to receive the Reader Raves award. It tells us that our customers are happy with our work and see the dedication we have for helping them to express their
inner beauty. It’s a two-way street.....our customers appreciate us, and we appreciate them for remaining customers at the salon,” said Basia Belz, owner, founder and master stylist at Vivid Hair Salon & Spa.
Vivid Hair Salon hair designers and master colorists not only assess your hair type and condition, but evaluate with symmetry your features, the shape of your face and hair shapes. Then they build a style around your personality so that your look is one of harmony, symmetry and perfect proportion.
They specialize in custom cuts, hair coloring and new, state-of-the-art hair extension. Staff are experienced professionals who attend ongoing educational opportunities to learn the most current fashion styles.
A graduate of the Cosmetology program at Dean Vocational in Holyoke, Belz has been a stylist for over 25 years, and this summer along with her staff of six, celebrated the 20th anniversary of Vivid Hair Salon & Spa.
“I always had an interest in the beauty industry. And I soon learned that it made me happy to see others shine and knowing I helped to make that possible,” Belz said.
Vivid Hair Salon & Spa is located on 99 Elm Street in Westfield.
Hours are Tuesday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and closed Sunday and Monday. For more information, visit vividhairsalonandspa.com or call 413-564-0062.
BY KEITH O’CONNOR SPECIAL TO THE REPUBLICAN
When it comes to your pet’s health, you want the very best care for your four-footed friends – be it dog or cat.
Voters in the Reader Raves 2026 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive know where to get their care, and that is at the Pet Health Center located at the Dakin Humane Center located at 171 Union St. in Springfield.
“Being named number one in our category is both humbling and uplifting. It definitely reminds us why we started this journey and shows that the effort we put in every day truly matters. For us, it’s proof that the work we’re doing is touching lives and creating positive change. After three years,
Best Veterinary CliniC Dakin Humane Society
we can see the difference in the smiles, trust, and gratitude of our community, so it’s really important to us that this recognition came from the community,” said Merrica Modeste, Manager, Pet Health Center at Dakin Humane Society.
“Our goal in providing access to quality veterinary care for pets before a health crisis arises, or treatment becomes too expensive, is to keep pets and people together. We offer clients a variety of payment methods to ensure that we’re meeting their needs, and together we can provide the care that their pet needs to be well,” she added.
Dakin Humane Society is a 501 (c) (3) community-supported animal welfare organization that provides
shelter, medical care, and spay/neuter services to more than 20,000 animals each year. Since its inception in 1969, Dakin has become one of the most recognized nonprofit organizations in the Pioneer Valley and a national leader in animal welfare.
If you are looking for a new animal friend, Dakin Humane Society is open for adoptions Tuesday through Saturday from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. No appointment is necessary. If you are looking for more information about a pet before visiting, email springfield@dakinhumane.org or call 413-
781-4000 x 1. All available animals are listed on their website, dakinhumane.org, which updates in real-time as animals become available and get adopted. Visits to the Pet Health Center are by appointment only through dakinpethealthcenter.org.
PHOTO BY DANIELLE COOKISH
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican
Best City or town offiCial Mayor DoMenic Sarno
As a six-term Mayor of Springfield, voters agree that Domenic Sarno is the right choice to lead the city.
Voters in the Reader Raves 2026 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive agree, too, voting him now for over a decade as Best City or Town Local Official.
A native son of the City of Springfield and the longest serving mayor in the city’s history, Sarno has earned a reputation for his commitment to economic development, financial stewardship, and community-based programs to address quality-of-life issues, education and public safety.
“This is the 12th year in a row receiving the Reader
Raves award. I thank the Reader Raves voters for the recognition which tells me I must be doing something right. It is quite an honor and privilege that I humbly accept on behalf of my family, my cabinet, department heads and the entire team at Springfield City Hall, where we all work together in the interest of the good citizens of Springfield,” said Mayor Sarno.
“I think people know that I truly love and care about Springfield, and I believe they realize that we are a triedand-true administration who have weathered to storm from manmade to natural disasters,” he added.
Being mayor of any city is a 24-7 job that Mayor Sarno is well aware of.
“You can’t turn it off and
say I’m not mayor right now. Things can change at a moment’s notice. You must
have that passion to always be there whether it is an emerging situation or simply dealing
with the daily duties of the job,” Mayor Sarno said.
“I especially thank my family for understanding what it takes to be mayor. Some days never end and can be as long as 14-16 hours, and if you don’t have a solid family life it can make it difficult,” he added.
A former four-term City Councilor who served as City Council President and as a member of the Springfield Finance Control Board, Sarno was elected to his first term as Mayor on November 6, 2007 and won reelection in 2009, 2011, 2015, 2019 and 2023. For more information on Mayor Sarno and the City of Springfield, visit springfield-ma.gov.
PHOTO BY HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican
Now in full swing through Sept. 28, The Big E has been voted Best Fair by local fair fans in the Reader Raves 2026 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive.
“It is wonderful to be recognized by our loyal fairgoers. We take a lot of pride in knowing people enjoy their time with us year after year, and we all work hard in keeping us at the top of our game for them,” said Gene Cassidy, President and CEO, Eastern States Exposition.
The culmination of a visionary idea first expressed by Joshua L. Brooks, his “big” idea took shape in the spring of 1917, when 122 of the nation’s foremost manufacturers presented their products at the Indus-
Best Fair
The Big e
trial and Export conference in Exposition Park. And, in the fall of that same year, the very first Eastern States Exposition was opened to the public. A total of 138,000 people gathered at what would become an endur-
ing tradition: the annual September event now known as The Big E with more than one million people now attending the 17-day event from all six New England states and beyond.
“Most people think of The
Furthermore, a recent study found that the Eastern States Exposition economic impact on Hampden County was $235 million in Gross Regional Product and a record-breaking $1.167 billion across New York and New England in 2024.
Cassidy noted he is excited about several things at this year’s Big E.
Big E as a local event, however, we are ranked among the top four largest fairs in North America,” Cassidy said about the honor which is based on attendance. Last year’s event set an all-time record of 1.6 million visitors.
“We’ve ben extending an offer to ZZ Top for some 15 years or more, and we finally have them appearing in The Big E Arena on our last day. We also have 90 new food items, the Clydesdales are back, and, of course, I’m looking forward to my two favorite things, our Big E Cream Puffs and cheese curds,” he said.
For more information on this year’s Big E, visit thebige.com.
PHOTO BY HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special
to The Republican
Since 2012, Black Birch Vineyard in Hatfield has created five award-winning wines using the best grapes from the cooler Northeast region.
Wine lovers have “raised their glasses” voting the boutique winery as Best Local Winery in the Reader Raves 2026 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive.
“It’s nice to be recognized by voters as their favorite winery in the Valley,” said Michelle Kersberger, co-owner of Black Birch Vineyard with her husband Ian Modestow.
“Our focus is to provide a space where people come together as a community to enjoy a glass of wine while
Best LocaL Winery Black Birch Vineyard
sitting around with friends and others and enjoying their company. We’re a place to relax and create memories,” she added.
As a young couple, Modestow and Kersberger discovered the world of winemaking while visiting their first winery in France and spent the week camping at a modest vineyard.
“A lot of mom-and-pop vineyards sparked our interest, and we fell in love with the culture of winemaking. Anytime we travel we try to find a vineyard and winery to enjoy and now we provide our own for others to enjoy,” she said.
The couple has over 19,000 vines stretching across 12 acres of rich Connecticut River Valley soil, giving them access to over
10 varietals of grapes from which they craft their whites, reds, roses, and dessert wines and aperitifs. Plant-
ing their own grapes allows them to be part of every stage of winemaking from growing and harvesting, to
aging and bottling wines to provide high quality wines.
Black Birch offers open hours, scheduled tours and tasting experiences, as well as public and private events.
For an additional tasting experience, Black Birch Vineyard’s own food truck, The Vitner’s Slice, sells freshly made artisanal pizza on Saturday and Sunday.
Black Birch Vineyard is located on 108 Straits Road in Hatfield.
Winery hours are Wednesday-Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Hours may vary due to special events, consult their website’s “visit” or “calendar” page.
For more information, visit blackbirchvineyard.com.
PHOTO BY STEVE SMITH
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican
Best Waitstaff Cal’s Wood Fired Grill and Bar
“The staff is always friendly” reads one review of Cal’s Wood-Fired Grill and Bar.
The waitstaff at Cal’s demonstrate the essentials of professionalism that is required to help set them apart in the restaurant industry.
Good manners. Excellent communication skills. Attentiveness to the needs of every customer. Efficiency. Knowing the menu inside out. Service with a smile. Those are just some of the qualities that make a good waiter/waitress.
For those reasons, voters in Reader Raves 2026 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive have recognized the popular restaurant for Best Waitstaff.
“It feels nice being number one. We thank all our customers for recognizing
the attentive service we offer our diners and voting us as having the Best Waitstaff. We also thank our staff for providing an exceptional experience for our customers,” said Cal’s Executive Chef Jaime Diaz.
“Excellent service is very important. It is how we stay in business. Our customers expect to have a good experience and meal while at Cal’s. They come here to have a good time with friends and family. We need to do the best we can to make their visit with us an exceptional experience so that they will return to our restaurant,” he added.
The entire restaurant team, from hosts at the front desk to chefs and dishwashers behind the scenes, play a role in the dining experience.
“It is a team effort.....work-
ing together collectively to give the best service to each customer. And I am proud of the team,” Diaz said.
New waitstaff receive five days of training so that they understand every aspect of the menu at Cal’s and how the restaurant’s many
dishes are prepared, as well as training in their wine and liquor menu, and many other aspects including how to approach a customer.
Located on 1068 Riverdale St. in West Springfield, Cal’s is open Monday-Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.,
Real Life. Real Support.
Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday noon to 8:30 p.m. For more information, visit calswoodfiredgrill.com. You can make a reservation online or call 413-827-9353.
PHOTO BY HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN
Thank you
o all of our loyal customers ook the time to vote for us.
e are truly grateful for your continued support and nfidence in our dealership.
because of you that we are able to deliver exceptional service and provide quality vehicles to our community.
We look forward to serving you for years to come.
Carla
Sincerely,
Cosenzi
and the entire TommyCar Auto Team
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Berkshire Heating and Air Conditioning
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PHOTO BY HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN
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Best financial advisor
Chris Casale, Polish NatioNal Credit UNioN
“I’m honored to receive the Reader Raves award which is a reflection on the entire organization at Polish National Credit Union. It’s a team effort,” said Casale.
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to
the Republican
Does investing in your future worry you?
That’s when a good, no, an excellent financial adviser is essential to turn to in order to provide you with sound investment advice on how to build wealth over time and meet your goals for the future, such as having enough
OVER 110 YEARS AND STAYING CURRENT
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A premier electrical contracting and design firm specializing in COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL
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This award celebrates our people. Thank you to the Collins Electric team for your dedication – and congratulations again on consecutively being named Reader Raves Best Electrician. You deserve it!
money to live the life you want to create, send your child to college or to retire in comfort.
Locally, that financial adviser, who joined Polish National Credit Union’s Investment Services in 2017, is Chris Casale, named Best Financial Adviser in the Reader Raves 2026 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive. His clients who voted for him, know that he will provide the highest level of objective and sound investment advice, while working with them toward meeting both their current needs and long-term goals.
International College with honors, where he majored in Business Administration and Minored in Economics. He started his career with E. F. Hutton & Company in 1982. He has his Series 7, 63 and is an Investment Advisor Representative with LPL Financial. He also has Life, Accident and Health Insurance Licenses. Casale focuses his clients on getting back to the basics, reviewing the fundamental strategies of time, risk and diversification.
“I’m honored to receive the Reader Raves award which is a reflection on the entire organization at Polish National Credit Union. It’s a team effort,” said Casale.
“I meet a lot of people and try to explain investing in terms that they will understand by using basic common language. I often use the analogy that investing is like grocery shopping. When you come to see me, I’ll explain what I mean,” Casale said.
“I love working with people and giving them basic ideas in line with their short- and long-term goals. I’m like a coach, helping them to develop a basic game plan for the future and adjusting it over time,” he added.
Casale has been advising clients for over 40 years. He graduated from American
Polish National Credit Union has offices in Wilbraham, Chicopee, Granby, Westfield, and East Longmeadow. Casale works out of the Wilbraham office but sees clients in all locations. For more information about Polish National Credit Union and their Investment Services, call 413-5929495 or visit pncu.com.
PHOTO BY STEVE NANTON
Healthcare you can trust from people you can depend on.
For generations, we’ve offered high quality, patient-centered, personalized care to patients and members across our community. It’s the Baystate way — and we’reready to deliver.
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican
Golfing is in full swing right now at Fenway Golf in East Longmeadow, but the days are dwindling before the sport comes to an end for the winter season.
“As a business, we are extremely weather dependent. The season usually comes to an end in early November, followed by our reopening in mid- to late-March,” owner/president Andrew Fisk said.
For young golfers to more experienced players, Fenway has it all – mini golf, pitch and putt, par 3, driving range, and even batting cages for baseball players who want to improve their swing, just as golfers do on the driving range.
However, it is in the
Best Mini Golf Fenway GolF
category of Best Mini Golf that voters gave thumbs up to Fenway Golf in the 2026 Reader Raves annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive.
“It is gratifying to be recognized for what we do, and I thank all of our loyal patrons and The Republican
and MassLive for extending this award to us,” Fisk said.
“Our mini golf is nicely landscaped with river hazards and waterfalls. Not every hole is an easy hole-in-one, there are some challenges to make it extra fun,” Fisk said. And to complement your
day of fun at Fenway Golf, a snack bar will keep you refreshed with soft serve, sundaes, shakes, flurries, hot dogs hamburgers and more.
“I’m told we have the best hot dogs around, and we use high-quality ingredients for our soft serve which as our
website states is ‘very close to perfection,’” Fisk said.
He noted golf is a great sport for the entire family.
“You are outside in the fresh air with nature and hopefully nice weather, although we do have some folks who come to our driving range in the rain.” Fisk said.
They also host children’s birthday parties and other events.
During the summer months, Fenway Golf opens at 8:30 a.m., but hours of operation may vary by season. For updates, call 413-525-4444.
Located on 112 Allen St. in East Longmeadow, more information on Fenway Golf and pricing is available at fenwaygolf.com.
PHOTO BY HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN
Best Vegetarian Food Pulse Café
BY STEVE SMITH
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican Serving 100% plant-based goodness to the Pioneer Valley since 2017, Pulse Café was created to show how a plant-based lifestyle can be attainable and attractive in a new era. The founders have spent a lot of time educating people all over the world about healthy living and decided to create a family friendly hub to model what they were teaching.
Diners at Pulse Café have demonstrated their appreciation for the plant-based menu by voting Pulse Café as Best Vegetarian Food restaurant in the Reader Raves 2026 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive.
“It’s very encouraging to know that the community recognizes our effort and feels good about endorsing our establishment. When the community chooses to give us their vote of approval it reminds us of why Pulse exists. Everything we do is to serve others. It
can be easy to get caught up in all the hustle and challenges, so to see that we are making a little bit of a difference means a lot,” said Evita Wilbur, owner and general manager of Pulse.
“We encourage people to try what they’re most comfortable with. Food can be very personal and subjective. We do our best to have options that are diverse enough to satisfy people from all backgrounds and dietary preferences,” she added.
Wilbur noted people “really love” their salads and bowls like their House and Caesar salads along with their Vida Bowl. The café also serves up plenty of house made soups including Sancocho, Chili, Ethiopian Red Lentil, Cream of Broccoli and more. People also enjoy their PulseTex-Mex, and All-American burgers - black bean, impossible and beyond.
“We approach health from a spiritual perspective. We look at health food and hospitality as acts of love.
We share this love with the community through our business. As we serve people, we build meaningful relationships and in this we find fulfillment,” Wilbur said.
Located on 270 Russell St. in Hadley, Pulse Café is open Monday through Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and open for Sunday Brunch from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
For more information, and to look at their menu, visit pulsecafe.com, or call 413387-0555.
PHOTO
Best secondhand clothing store
Soul Shine ConSignment
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to The Republican Stop in for a bargain and leave with some inspiration for your life.
It’s not their slogan, but it could be at Soul Shine Consignment Boutique in Feeding Hills, where customers can shop their affordable, fashionable and unique merchandise. The boutique specializes in like-new women’s clothing, shoes, handbags and jewelry.
“It is an amazing surprise to receive the Reader Raves award. I am blessed and humbled that our customers voted us for this honor,” said owner Katy Shea, who founded Soul Shine Consignment Boutique in 2021 and celebrated in early September with a four-year anniversary party for customers.
Shea studied fashion merchandising in college and had a 20-year career in fashion retail before “living her dream” as owner of a consignment shop. After having children, she soon discovered the many advantages of thrift shopping. When COVID paused the world, Shea had time to rethink her priorities and decided to take the risk
and open Soul Shine Consignment Boutique.
Set up like an upscale boutique, Shea is particular about what she accepts – clothes must be in like-new condition with no signs of wear. Many of her items still have their original tags.
“We are a place for women to express their authentic beauty,” Shea said, noting Soul Shine means beauty from the inside, out.
The not-for-profit boutique, as its website states, “tries to bless our customers with affirmations and with our prices.” The affirmations are free.
“No matter if they buy something or not, I have a jar of positive affirmations that I have written like ‘I will treat myself with care and kindness’ to share with customers so that they feel valued and special. If they are open to it, these affirmations for some may be exactly what they need to hear at the right time,” Shea said.
Located on 360 North Westfield St., Suite 7, in Feeding Hills, the shop is open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Wednesday
“It is an amazing surprise to receive the Reader Raves award. I am blessed and humbled that our customers voted us for this honor.”
from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. They are closed on Sunday and Monday. Check their website for consignment guidelines and strict hours of acceptance. For more information and for a little inspiration by just visiting their website, go to soulshineconsign.com
PHOTO BY STEVE NANTON
Best Pick Your own orchard Dickinson Farms
PHOTO BY STEVE SMITH
“It is an honor to be recognized, and we thank our many customers who voted for us as they have for several years now.”
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to The Republican Good news, sad news, more good news.
First, the good news. Dickinson Farm & Greenhouse in Granby has been voted Best Pick Your Own Orchard by voters in the Reader Raves 2026 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive.
The sad news.
That honor came before their announcement in late August that after 35 years, the farm will no longer offer “Pick Your Own Apples” starting with this year’s crop.
The “more good news.”
Come next season there will still be pick your own blueberries and strawberries.
gourds, scarecrows, hanging ghosts, straw bales and corn stalks and much more are for sale “to make your home feel festive,” according to their Facebook page.
“We try to help local people in our selection of products to sell at the Farm Stand,” Cierpial said.
A selection of those products includes Berkshire Wine Jelly from Lenox, M&G Kettle Corn from Belchertown, Wickedly Wild Gourmet Sauces from Granby, and frozen beef from Cote Cattle Company in Granby, to name just a few.
“It is an honor to be recognized, and we thank our many customers who voted for us as they have for several years now,” said Brenda Cierpial, manager of Dickinson Farm & Greenhouse.
In addition to pick your own, loyal customers throughout the season visit the family-owned farm where they grow and sell fruits, vegetables, and flowers. They also sell a variety of food products including jams, jellies, relishes, pickled vegetables, cheeses of all kinds, bakery goods, and much more for the foodie in you.
Fall is in the air right now at the farm where potted mums, mini pumpkins and
“We also sell Gibble’s potato chips which are often found specifically at farm stands and are very popular with potato chip lovers. And we now get weekly deliveries of fresh sourdough breads, bagels and cinnamon rolls from The Healthy Dough in Ludlow,” Cierpial said.
The Farmstand opens in late June and closes for the season at the end of October.
The Greenhouse opens just before Easter and closes around mid-June when the Farmstand opens.
Located on 309 East State St. in Granby, Dickinson’s hours are Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
For more information, visit dickinsonsfarm.com or call 413-467-3794.
Frigo’s Gourmet Foods - Best Deli PHOTO BY HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN
Heartsong
PHOTO BY DOUG HOOK
Best farm stand McKinstry’s MarKet Garden
PHOTO BY HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to The Republican Seasonal farm stands across Massachusetts are one of the most common ways for consumers to find locally grown foods. But not all are outdoor road-
side farm stands. Take McKinstry Market Garden in Chicopee, for example.
Four years ago, they opened a modern 7,500 square foot building replacing their old farm
stand with air conditioning for the warm summer months, as well as heat for the cooler days since they are now open year-round. From outdoors on the farm to indoors in their market, voters in Reader
“We are excited, thrilled and happy to know our customers have again chosen us as Best Farm Stand. It is a great feeling of pride for us and recognition of what we do for them.”
Raves 2026 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive have chosen McKinstry Market Garden as Best Farm Stand.
“We are excited, thrilled and happy to know our customers have again chosen us as Best Farm Stand. It is a great feeling of pride for us and recognition of what we do for them,” said Nicole McKinstry, who operates the farm with her husband Willard and their grown sons Will and Warren both in their 20s.
“We are a family of eight generations of farmers who have been in business for over a century, and we strive hard to grow fresh vegetables and pick them every day for our customers’ dinner tables,” she added.
The farm currently operates on many acres of land throughout the Pioneer Valley. They grow practically all types of fruits and vegetables and specifically specialize in early corn and tomatoes during the New England growing season,
and have their own bakery. For breakfast or lunch, MoMo’s Snack Shop –named after the farm’s beloved furry friend – is where locally sourced ingredients meet delicious freshly prepared food from their gardens and local businesses they trust such as Rubee Ranch, Bernardino’s Bakery, Tandem Bagel, Mapleline Farms and many others.
They also have an ice cream booth that will shortly close for the season.
Also, getting in and out of the parking lot at McKinstry just got easier with the completion of an expanded lot with a new one-way in and one-way out traffic flow.
Located on 753 Montgomery St. in Chicopee, McKinstry Market Garden is currently open during the season from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
For more information, visit mckinstryfarms.com or call 413-536-2043.
Best Charity event & Family run Business
Tom Cosenzi Driving For The Cure, TommyCar au To group
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican
The TommyCar Auto Group has received two awards in the Reader Raves 2026 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive – Best Family Run Business and Best Charity Event.
“Being voted Best Family Run Business tells us our mission and values—transparency, honesty, respect, and empathy—are resonating. Our approach of treating employees like family translates into customers being treated the same way, and this recognition motivates us to keep building on that foundation,” said Carla Cosenzi, President of TommyCar Auto Group.
“We pride ourselves on being a family business. I grew up with family being the most important thing, and we run our business the same way. Of course, my brother and I are blood family, but we also consider our employees family. We’ve built a culture where people support each other, celebrate milestones, and lean in during challenges. Knowing you can count on each other gives our staff a true sense of belonging. It gives them pride and purpose—it’s more than just a job - it’s being part of something meaningful. And that culture has naturally
extended to our customers as well—over time, so many of them have become family, too,” she added.
Cosenzi noted it is “an honor and privilege to run this business with my brother, continuing the legacy of our late father, Tom Cosenzi.”
“Just as we grew up in the business, our kids are now growing up in it too. They started out being featured in ads, which was never just marketing—it reflected who we are. Now that they’re older, they’re spending more time learning different roles around the dealership. They genuinely consider it their second home and love being with our team. I’m so grateful for that,” she said.
Tom Cosenzi was diagnosed with brain cancer at just 49 years old and passed away on September 3, 2009, at the age of 52. His wish was that no family would endure what his did. In his honor, they created the Driving for the Cure Golf Tournament. Sixteen years later, it continues to sell out and break fundraising records.
To date, they have raised over $1.8 million for Dana-Farber and hope to break the $2 million mark this year.
“I believe we were honored with the Best Charity Event Reader Raves because Driving
for the Cure is more than golf—it’s about impact. My brother and I put our hearts into every detail as our way of thanking sponsors and golfers. Anyone who attends can feel the energy of the day and the impact it creates. Every year, Dr. Patrick Wen, my dad’s doctor, joins us and shares the strides his team at Dana-Farber has made with
the funds raised—not just for brain cancer, but for other types of cancer as well. To still celebrate my dad, honor his name, and carry forward his legacy through this event is an incredible gift. I’m humbled by the community, friends, and family who continue to support it,” Cosenzi said.
The five TommyCar Auto Group dealerships include County Nissan, County Hyundai, Genesis of Northampton, Volvo Cars Pioneer Valley and Northampton Volkswagen For more information, visit tommycarauto.com
PHOTOS BY STEVE SMITH
Best Car Dealer, auto repair & autoB oDy shop
TommyCar
au To Group
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican
The TommyCar Auto Group/TommyCar Collision Center has received three awards in the Reader Raves 2026 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive – Best Car Dealer, Best Auto Body Shop and Best Auto Repair.
dedication, and the trust and loyalty they’ve built with our amazing customers,” said Carla Cosenzi, President of TommyCar Auto Group.
“Awards that are voted on by our customers are the highest honor. We take so much pride in the services and customer experience we provide, and to know that our customers recognize it means the world to us. Most importantly, these awards are a reflection of our employees—their hard work,
Cosenzi noted what sets them apart from other auto dealers is “making every customer feel like a part of the TommyCar family.”
“We work hard to use live market data, which means real-time, competitive pricing our customers can trust. Our Best Price Guarantee gives people the confidence they deserve when making such a big purchase. But we also
know this is a relationship business, and customer experience is what has grown our business into what it is today. For us, it’s about making the experience different — standing out through how we treat people, the trust we build, and the genuine connections we create with our customers. At the end of the day, what truly sets us apart is making every customer feel like part of the TommyCar family,” she said.
“On top of that, every time you do business with us, you earn TommyCard loyalty points that can be used toward your next purchase or lease at any TommyCar dealership. Most importantly, it all comes down to having a team our customers can trust. Our customers know we’ll treat them right, and that’s what has built the loyalty and confidence we’re so proud of today,” Cosenzi added.
What sets their repair shops apart is the combination of skill, transparency, and convenience they offer their customers, Cosenzi noted.
“All of our technicians are factory-trained and use only genuine manufacturer parts, so our customers know the work being done meets the highest standards. We also provide a video multi-point inspection on every vehicle, so our customers can see in real time exactly what our technicians are seeing which gives customers full trans-
parency and lets them know what to expect when it comes to their vehicle,” Cosenzi said
“We also understand that cost and convenience matter. That’s why we offer flexible payment options, as well as a variety of ways to make servicing your vehicle easier. Customers can choose to wait in our dealership lounge with complimentary Wi-Fi and snacks, take out a loaner bike and ride the bike path, hop on our complimentary shuttle to explore Northampton or maintenance customers can choose complimentary pickup and drop-off service with a loaner vehicle,” she added.
Cosenzi noted their services go beyond collision repair and body work. They offer detailing, dent repair, windshield replacement, frame repair, paint, and now towing. They even handle the minor dents and dings that may happen in your local grocery store parking lot. From the accident scene to the smallest touch-ups, they are able to provide a complete solution with minimal disruption to their customers’ daily lives.
The five TommyCar Auto Group dealerships include County Nissan, County Hyundai, Genesis of Northampton, Volvo Cars Pioneer Valley and Northampton Volkswagen For more information, visit tommycarauto.com
