2 2 • December 2018 • Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend
Thank you for voting us: Best Hospital | Best Imaging Center We take pride in being there for you and your family, making it our Mission to serve with the greatest care and love. Care you deserve in the community you love.
THE BEST OF THE BEST
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And the Winners Are... BEST PIZZA 1st - Roma’s 2nd - Dewey’s Pizza 3rd - Peel
BEST WINGS 1st - Sports Tap 2nd -Sunset Bar & Grill 3rd - Roper’s Regal Beagle
BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT 1st - Bella Milano 2nd - Castelli’s at 255 3rd - Tony’s Restaurant
BEST FIREFIGHTER: 1st - Brian Estes - Godfrey 2nd - Ben Shewmaker - Alton 3rd - Wade Stalhut - Wood River
BEST STEAK 1st - Tony’s Restaurant 2nd -1818 Chophouse 3rd - Jimmy the Greek’s
BEST LOCALLY BREWED BEER 1st - Old Bakery Brewery 2nd - Schlafly Brewery 3rd - 4204 Main Street Brewery
BEST BURGER 1st - King Louie’s Drive-In 2nd - Bakers & Hale 3rd - Mini Corral
BEST POLICE OFFICER 1st - Emily Hejna - Alton 2nd - Brad Wells - Wood River 3rd - Jason Lamb - Bethalto
BEST LOCAL COFFEE 1st - Bunkhouse Joe 2nd - Germania Brew Haus 3rd - Maeva’s Coffee
BEST PLACE TO WORK 1st - Liberty Bank 2nd - Alton Physical Therapy 3rd - Gori Julian & Associates BEST CHAMBER DIRECTOR 1st - Jamie Clayton - Grafton 2nd - Katie Haas Ed-Glen 3rd - Dawn Mushill - Troy
BEST ASIAN RESTAURANT 1st - Wang Gang 2nd - Shogun Japanese Steakhouse rd 3 - China Buffet Alton
BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT 1st - Riviera Maya 2nd - Casa Romero 3rd - El Mezcal
BEST FINE DINING 1st - Gentelin’s 2nd - Cleveland Heath 3rd - Jimmy the Greek’s
BEST ICE CREAM 1st - Shiver’s Frozen Custard 2nd - Bobby’s Frozen Custard 3rd - Annie’s Frozen Custard
BEST MARTINIS 1st - Bossanova 2nd - Chez Marilyn 3rd - Gentelin’s
BEST CHICKEN 1st - Castelli’s at 255 2nd - Fast Eddie’s 3rd - Brass Door
BEST PEOPLE BEST VOLUNTEER: 1st - Margaret Freer 2nd - Carl Draper 3rd - Diane Giebe BEST NURSE: 1st - April FergusonOSF St. Anthony’s 2nd - Renee Strowmatt Alton Memorial 3rd - Jessica Rinney Alton Memorial
PHOTOGRAPHER 1st - Carrie Carpunky Photography nd 2 - Lee Barrow Photography 3rd - Rabozzi Photography
BEST CAR SALESMAN 1st - Jason Enos - Smart Choice Auto Sales 2nd - Joe Hanahan - Quality Buick GMC Cadillac 3rd - Alan VanBooven Roberts Ford BEST COACH 1st - Tommy Hill - Roxana 2nd - Harold Landon Jerseyville 3rd - Nick Flowers Carrollton BEST PRINCIPAL 1st - John Ducey Lovejoy Elementary 2nd - Brian Saenz West Elementary 3rd - Ronda Smith Carrollton BEST TEACHER 1st - Tiffany Falk - Lewis and Clark Middle School 2nd - Kelly Wooten - Bethalto 3rd - Jennifer Kapetanovich
4 4 • December 2018 • Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend
THE BEST OF THE BEST
THANK YOU!!
We Want To Take This Opportunity To Thank Everyone Who Voted For Us As Best Dentist In the Riverbend Area For The Fourth Year In A Row! Dr. Stacy Cain Moody • Dr. Sara Hanahan • Dr. Tim Pranger Voted 2015, 2016 & 2017
Voted 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 2018
6 6 • December 2018 • Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend
THE BEST OF THE BEST
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST ICE CREAM IN THE RIVERBEND AREA AGAIN!!
3318 Godfrey Rd. Godfrey, IL 62035 (618) 466-6915 shiversfrozencustard.com
Thank you for voting us the Best Tattoo Parlor in the Riverbend!
560 E Broadway, Alton, IL
Hearst Illinois Media Group enjoying the party
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Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend • December 2018 • 7
Best of the Best Police Officer Emily Hejna, Alton Police Department (Submitted photo)
Best of the Best Chamber Director Jamie Clayton, Grafton Chamber of Commerce, Grafton, Illinois (Nathan Woodside Hearst Illinois Media)
“Best of” Chamber Director Jamie Clayton GRAFTON — Longtime Grafton, Illinois, resident recently completed his term as his community’s Chamber of Commerce president, leaving big shoes to fill. Clayton excelled in the position, proven by winning the Best of the Best Chamber Director title. Unlike most communities, the Grafton Chamber of Commerce president also acts as its director and the chamber operates as an all-volunteer organization. Clayton recently passed the gavel to Grafton resident Janey Brummett, but he’s not going anywhere, he said. “I’ll still be involved in what the chamber is doing,” said the civic-minded citizen, who has lobbied at the state level to get important legislation passed. Grafton Chamber of Commerce successes this year — under Clayton’s leadership — included several firsts. The chamber held its first golf outing, Mississippi Masters, last spring, which had an overwhelming response and welcomed country music legend Mickey Gilley to the city for the first time for a fundraising concert last May for the Grafton Police Department. “It’s a community effort; the chamber took the lead to make sure the logistics were handled,” Clayton said at the time. “From the city of Grafton to the businesses and volunteers, if it wasn’t for them, we couldn’t do the show.”
Proceeds from the show, held at The Loading Dock’s Historic Boatworks, helped the Grafton police overcome some challenges they faced at the time, such as funds for radios and safety apparel to replace used jackets, gun belts and other support items. This season, the city held its first Santa’s Chocolate Express, which grew out of the chamber’s Taste of Chocolate. The popular new eventexpanded, still featuring chocolate treats, but at numerous Grafton merchants instead of one central location, providing more foot traffic to small businesses. Santa’s Chocolate Express added attractions, such as live Christmas caroling in The Grove Memorial Park, courtesy of the Jerseyville Community High School choir, and visits by Santa and Mrs. Claus, as well as the Grinch. A shuttle bus took visitors to variousparticipating businesses in town. Clayton, who’s still a Grafton Chamber of Commerce member, along with his wife, Carole, also supported municipal efforts that kept the city in America’s Central Port district, when factions were divided on the issue. Clayton is a regular at city council meetings, supporting the city’s efforts to develop revenue sources and grow as a community. Clayton has a daughter who lives in Rockford, Illinois.
“Best of” Police Officer Emily Hejna ALTON — Police officer Emily Hejna decided to pursue a career in law enforcement when her brother, also a police officer, experienced a near-fatal traffic crash while on duty. Hejna eventually joined the Alton Police Department, the same department as her brother, Alton police officer Sam Riney. “That event made me re-evaluate what I was doing with my life and switch careers, to something that would allow me to help people more,” Hejna recalled. She humbly told an audience of nearly 400 people at Hearst Illinois Media’s Best of the Best event that there are far better police officers than her, but clearly the community overwhelmingly thinks she’s number one. “I am humbled to be in the company of a few of them during the time of this contest,” she said. “What meant the most to me about this was that community members recognized the efforts we are making to make things better.” Hejna graduated from Alton High School in 2000, spending some time in Florida and in St. Louis after college, but most of her life she has lived in Alton or Godfrey, where she lives now with her family. Hejna studied a double major at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in mass communications and speech communication, earning her degrees in 2004. “I try to keep God and family first, and be as consistent with people as possible,” she said. “My goal every day is fairness. In my field, we run into people from all walks of life and I think it’s extra important that we try to treat everyone with the same care.” Hejna described her husband, Steven Hejna, as “amazing.” The couple have three sons: Benjamin, 6, Adam, 4, and Ryan, 2. “They definitely keep us on our toes!” she exclaimed. Hejna’s parents are Tom and Gwen Riney, who live in Alton.
Best of the Best Volunteer Margaret Freer (Submitted photo)
“Best of” Volunteer Margaret Freer GODFREY — Margaret Freer grew up a country girl in Dow, Illinois, and always remembers where she came from. “I come from a poor family of eight children. While growing up we never had much, but my parents always shared and helped others,” she recalled. “This was instilled in me at an early age.” Freer graduated from Jersey Community High School and took classes at Lewis and Clark Community College. She married in 1969 to Mike Freer, both of whom helped build the family-owned business, Freer Auto Body, in Godfrey, where they and their family have lived since 1972. Both still work at the shop, founded by their late son, David Freer, at 4512 N. Alby St. Freer died in a tragic traffic crash in 2008. In addition to Margaret Freer’s upbringing, the loss of her beloved first-born son forever influenced her even more to always help those in need. The Freers’ oldest and second of two children, Tim Freer, is currently president of Freer Auto Body. “My volunteerism started when the boys were in school,” recalled Margaret, who was a room mother; chair of multiple school fundraisers; Mothers Club president for several years; a
Profiles written by Jill Moon, jill.moon@hearst.com
member of Alton School District’s finance ad hoc committee for fundraisers in the fight against myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), cancer, heart disease and many other maladies and causes. Freer served on boards for the YWCA of Alton, co-chairing its 25th Women of Distinction event; the United Way; Crisis Food Center; Behavioral Health Alternative; North Alton Godfrey Business Council; and, the Salvation Army. “I am the fund-raising queen,” quipped Freer, who’s a pro at mobilizing the community, and raised a great deal of money for a variety of nonprofit agencies. “I am committed to helping make our community a better place to live, work and play. “Our community always responds when I ask for help on any project — they make me successful. We have such a great team of people who support me and my efforts in making the community a better place.” Freer also adores her granddaughters, Taylor, 15, and Lily Freer, 12, in whom she’s instilled her philosophy of volunteerism, helping them to found their own event, Christmas in July, to jump start the family’s favorite annual project, Community Christmas, sponsored by the United Way. The sisters’
event will be 10 years old next year. They won the Salvation Army’s “Doing the Most Good” award in 2016. “I have been a volunteer for many years. Anytime there is something good going on in our community, I try to participate,” Margaret said. “We have always been mindful of the needs of others and try to help when we can. “It takes a village and we have the support of so many. It has always been my belief and motto that it is better to give than to receive.” Through the many challenges and hardships in Freer’s life, she finds the positive. “I truly believe I have been blessed in so many ways,” she said. “I am not special. I have a ton of givers who help me and ensure the success of my many projects. I am thankful — every day — for my ability to give and to make a difference. “As we gather at my house on Christmas day to celebrate, I have a feeling of warmth, knowing that many people will have something under their trees because of the efforts of so many who support our efforts in making Christmas bright for the needy. It is a joint community effort, of which everyone involved should be proud.”
8 8 • December 2018 • Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend
THE BEST OF THE BEST
And the Winners Are... FOOD & BEVERAGE BEST LOCAL WINERY: 1st - Grafton Winery 2nd - Aeries 3rd - Copper Dock Winery BEST LIQUOR STORE: 1st - Corral Liquor 2nd - Friar Tuck Beverage 3rd - Hit N Run BEST BBQ: 1st - Fire n Smoke 2nd - Carver’s BBQ 3rd - Doc’s Smokehouse BEST LOCAL DESSERTS: 1st - My Just Desserts 2nd - LuciAnna’s Pastries 3rd - Josephine’s Tea Room
BEST DONUTS: 1st - Duke Bakery 2nd - Mister Donut 3rd - Wood River Donut BEST SUSHI: 1st - Wasabi 2nd - Shogun Japanese Steak House 3rd - Nori BEST COOKIES: 1st - The Cookie Factory Bakery 2nd - Duke Bakery 3rd - LuciAnna’s Pastries
ENTERTAINMENT BEST OUTDOOR PATIO: 1st - The Loading Dock 2nd - Brown Bag Bistro 3rd - Fast Eddies BEST LOCAL THEATRE: 1st - Wildey Theatre 2nd - Stadium Theater Jerseyville 3rd - Alton Little Theater BEST LOCAL PARK: 1st - Glazebrook Park 2nd - Gordon Moore Park 3rd - Belk Park
BEST GOLF COURSE: 1st - Belk Park Golf Course 2nd - Rolling Hills Golf Course 3rd - Woodlands Golf Course BEST WEDDING VENUE: 1st - Aerie’s Resort & Winery 2nd - WOW Furnishings and Event Center 3rd - Marquette Lodge BEST SPORTS BAR: 1st - Roper’s Regal Beagle 2nd - Laux Brickhouse 3rd - Sports Tap
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Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend • December 2018 • 9
Thank you for Voting Us for Best Fine Dining!
Happy Hour: Monday-Friday 2:30pm-5:30pm ½ Price Beer & Wine $5 Cocktails Food Specials
Hours: Mon-Thursday 11am-10pm Friday 11am-11pm Saturday 10am-11pm Farm to Table restaurants serving local, fresh product (Brunch 10am-1pm,) We serve gourmet comfort food using only the best ingredients Sunday 10am-8pm (Brunch 10am-1pm) 106 N Main Edwardsville, IL
618-307-4830 clevelandheath.com
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Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend • December 2018 • 11
The staff of Absolute Health Care Services is honored that our community voted us #1 in the Riverbend “Best of the Best” for Private Duty Home Health Care. Thank You for your support. We will continue to provide our clients and their families with the ABSOLUTE BEST!
4124 Alby Alton, IL • 618-466-1010 www.ahcsllc.com
12 12 • December 2018 • Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE BEST CARPET CLEANERS THE RIVERBEND AREA!! OTE FORIN A-PLUS CARPET CLEANING AS THE
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THE BEST OF THE BEST
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13 Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend • December 2018 • 13
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Thank You For Voting Roma's As
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Thank You For Voting Us Best Auto Repair In The Riverbend! RADIATOR COOLANT & FLUSH $ 99
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THANK YOU FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE BEST ROOFERS IN THE RIVERBEND AREA!
16 16 • December 2018 • Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend
THE BEST OF THE BEST
And the Winners Are... HEALTH & WELLNESS BEST PHARMACY: 1st - Schnuck’s Godfrey 2nd - Shields Family Pharmacy 3rd - Well Creek Pharmacy BEST VISION CENTER: 1st - Heitz Optical 2nd - Rose Optical 3rd - Performance Eyecare BEST HEARING SPECIALIST: 1st - Mid America Audiology Group 2nd - Johnson’s Hearing Center 3rd - Absolute Audio
BEST ORTHODONTIST: 1st - Dr. Kim Haug 2nd - Heintz & Bankhead Orthodontics 3rd - Brickman Orthodontics BEST ORTHOPEDIC DOCTOR: 1st - Dr. Aaron Omotola 2nd - Dr. John Stirton 3rd - Dr. Bruce Vest BEST CHIROPRACTOR: 1st - Bemis Family Chiropractic 2nd - Prime Health Chiropractic 3rd - Sherer Chiropractics BEST DENTIST: 1st - Humbert Road Dentistry 2nd - James Mathus 3rd - All Smiles Dentistry
BEST PHYSICAL THERAPIST: 1st - Alton Physical Therapy 2nd - McCormick Physical Therapy 3rd - ApexNetwork Physical Therapy BEST DOCTOR: 1st - Dr. Kathie Wuellner 2nd - Dr. Steve Zenker 3rd - Dr. Craig Harms BEST OB/GYN: 1st - Maryville Women’s Center 2nd - Dr. Joseph Talsky 3rd - Dr. Christina Midkiff BEST PODIATRIST: 1st - Dr. Larry Huels 2nd - Dr. Lindsay Barth 3rd - Next Step Foot and Ankle
BEST IMAGING CENTER: 1st - OSF St. Anthony’s Health Center 2nd - Twin Rivers MRI 3rd - Maryville Imaging Center BEST LOCAL YOGA STUDIO: 1st - Riverbend Yoga 2nd - Hot 4 Yoga 3rd - Studio Gaia BEST HOSPITAL: 1st - OSF St. Anthony’s Health Center 2nd - Alton Memorial Hospital 3rd - Anderson Hospital
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Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend • December 2018 • 17
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US THE BEST FUNERAL HOME!
Pitchford Funeral Home Has Established The Tradition Of Offering The Highest Quality Of Service In A Comfortable, Homelike Atmosphere. Tyler B. Pitchford Janna L. Boger-Pitchford Owners
2555 Vaughn Rd. (Rt. 111) • Wood River, IL 62095
618-259-6462
www.pitchfordfuneralhome.com
THANK YOU FOR VOTING TOMMY HILL AS BEST COACH IN THE RIVERBEND!
Tommy Hill, Wrestling Coach Roxana High School
Top Left: Director Jamie Clayton, Grafton Chamber of Commerce, accepts his award at the Best of the Best Event. Above: Riverbend Growth Association President John Keller delivers the event’s keynote address. Left: Hearst Illinois Media’s staff members Mike Phillips and Monique Seago announce individual winners at the Best of the Best Event.
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST CHAMBER OF COMMERCE! 5800 Godfrey Rd Godfrey IL 62035 (618) 467-2280 www.growthassociation.com
18 18 • December 2018 • Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend
THE BEST OF THE BEST
And the Winners Are... PLUMBER 1st - Inspector Plumber 2nd - Blands Plumbing 3rd - Crafton Plumbing Inc.
BEST HARDWARE STORE: 1st - St. Peter’s Hardware 2nd - Ace Hardware - Bethalto 3rd - RP Lumber
ELECTRICIAN: 1st - Bickle Electric 2nd - Camp Electric 3rd - Randy Hawkins
BEST TRASH COMPANY: 1st - Robert (Bob) Sanders Waste Systems 2nd - Republic Services 3rd - Midwest Sanitation
ROOFER: 1st - Ryan Construction and Roofing, LLC 2nd - Darr Roofing 3rd - Anderson Roofing
BEST HEATING/COOLING 1st - King Air Conditioning & Heating 2nd - Bertels and Co. Heating & Cooling 3rd - Den-Son Heating & Air Conditioning Inc.
BEST LANDSCAPER: 1st - Jim Murphy’s Complete Landscaping 2nd - Prestige Landscaping 3rd - Altered Grounds BEST CARPET CLEANING: 1st - TK Carpet & Flooring 2nd - Prestige Carpet Cleaning 3rd - McCauley’s Carpet Cleaning
BEST PEST CONTROL 1st - Imel Pest Control, Inc. 2nd - Klug Pest Solutions Inc. 3rd - Smith’s Pest Control BEST CARPET/FLOORING COMPANY 1st - TK’s Carpet & Flooring 2nd - Buck’s Decorating 3rd - The Floor Store
BEST HOME REMODELING COMPANY 1st - Eagle Windows & Siding Co. 2nd - Kitchen & Bath Outlet 3rd - Encore Bath & Shower Inc. BEST LAWN MOWER SALES & SERVICE 1st - Bob’s Lawn & Garden 2nd - Bertles Sales & Service 3rd - Feldmann Power BEST HOME BUILDER 1st - Tycon Builders 2nd - Homes by Emmons & Cress 3rd - Spencer Homes
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Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend • December 2018 • 19
Congratulations
to the staff of Eunice Smith Home, which has been designated a Five-Star Community (out of five stars) by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
The rating system uses information from Health Care Surveys, Quality Measures and Staffing. Eunice Smith Home received a five-star rating in Overall Quality. In addition, Eunice Smith Home: • Has provided a comfortable rehabilitation and skilled nursing option for the Alton and River Bend senior community since 1966. • Is owned by Alton Memorial Hospital, and is conveniently located on the north end of the hospital campus (easy access from College Avenue). • Was voted “Best of the Best” Skilled Nursing Facility in 2017 and 2018 by the readers of the Alton Telegraph. • Is managed by Bethesda Health Group, an organization serving the senior community since 1889. Eunice Smith Home is one of three BJC senior communities managed by Bethesda. For more information about the services available at Eunice Smith Home, please contact For Hazel more about the servicesabout available at Eunice Smith please contact Morgan, Referral Coordinator, atHome, 618-463-7336 or hlmorgan@bethesdahealth.org. For more information about theservices services available at Smith Home, please contact Forinformation more information the available atEunice Eunice Smith Home, please contact Hazel Morgan, Referral Coordinator, at 618-463-7336 or hlmorgan@bethesdahealth.org. Morgan, Referral Coordinator,at at618-463-7336 618-463-7336 oror hlmorgan@bethesdahealth.org. HazelHazel Morgan, Referral Coordinator, hlmorgan@bethesdahealth.org.
1251 College Avenue | Alton, IL 62002 | www.BethesdaHealth.org
12511251 College Avenue www.BethesdaHealth.org College Avenue| Alton, | Alton,IL IL 62002 62002 | |www.BethesdaHealth.org 1251 College Avenue | Alton, IL 62002 | www.BethesdaHealth.org
20 • December 2018 • Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend
THE BEST OF THE BESTTHE BEST OF THE BEST
Red Carpet Event
Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend • December 2018 • 21
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Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend • December 2018 • 23
“Best of” Teacher Tiffany Falk BY JILL MOON jill.moon@hearst.com WOOD RIVER — Junior high school teacher Tiffany Falk’s 14 years at Lewis and Clark Junior High is just a fraction of the years that the school has influenced her life. “I actually work at the same junior high school that I attended when I was a teen,” she noted. “Junior high students are at a weird age and most kids lack confidence and haven’t really figured out who they are — that was me as a young teen. I struggled.” It just so happens that a teacher made all the difference. ”Mrs. Twichell made an incredible impact on my life in eighth grade,” said Falk, who also teaches eighth grade. “She made me feel loved and accepted. I knew I wanted to grow up and do the same for kids. I wanted to be the kind of teacher that kids never forgot about. I wanted to make a difference in others’ lives, like Mrs. Twichell made in mine and so many others.” Falk attended East Alton-Wood River High School, from where she graduated in 2000. Then she moved to Springfield, Missouri, to attend Evangel University, from where, in 2004, she received a Bachelor of Science in elementary and middle school education. Shortly after graduation, Falk became employed at the Wood River junior high, in 2005, when she also started coaching volleyball at the school. “When I first started, I was working alongside of several of my former teachers, including my inspiration, Mrs. Twichell,” she recalled. “My life had come full circle and, to be working with the woman who changed my life in eighth grade, was a dream come true for me. She inspired me then and she continues to inspire me now.” While curriculum expectations are set and met, Falk’s daily priority is the stu-
dents. “I think that’s the reason I’ve been successful in my career. My goal is to make sure my students feel love, safety and acceptance — then I teach them a little bit of English,” she said in all seriousness, with a bit of whimsy. “I also try to find something positive about each kid, and remind them of that daily.” ”Some of my students come from some pretty rough home lives,” she continued. “I do my best to make them forget about all of that while they are in my classroom. My goal is to make these kids smile each and every day.” In Falk’s daily life, she has a reminder in the form of a sign on her desk at work, with words by which she lives by etched upon it. “It says, ‘I want to inspire people. I want someone to look at me and say, because of you, I didn’t give up,’” she recounted. “That’s what helps me get through the hard days.” Parents of Falk’s students say she’s a good communicator. “I know that’s something they appreciate about me,” she noted. “Sometimes I feel like I’m a bit much. I email parents a lot! I feel like my students aren’t always the best at relaying information to their moms and dads. I try to pick up the slack on my end.” Students find joy in Falk’s classroom because they feel respected, acknowledged, heard and cared for, whether it’s before, during or after school, for academic or personal reasons. “A young man told me that I push him in his academics and he knows I won’t give up on him until he’s reaching his potential,” Falk said. Co-workers described Falk as organized and willing to do whatever to help the staff. “Some would also say I’m crazy for giving up so much of my own time to spend with these kids,” said Falk, who has three children — all girls — of her own: Aubrey, 11, Kaylea, 8, and Jordyn, 5. “So many of
Best of the Best Teacher Tiffany Falk, Lewis and Clark Junior High, Wood River, Illinois. (Submitted photo) my former students have grown up, turned into friends and, now, they are not only a piece of my life, but also a part of my family’s lives. My family is so proud of me.” Falk lives in Bethalto, with her family, who includes her college sweetheart and husband of 13 years, Matt. Since beginning her teaching career, Falk has continued her education. She earned a Master of Education in 2011 from the University of Missouri - Columbia; she has completed classes through Fresno Pacific University, furthering her knowledge of technology-aided teaching, and California State University, increasing her volleyball coaching skills. Falk received recognition last year for her 100th win in volleyball. She also sponsors the Newspaper Club, Photography Club, Yearbook Club and Girls on the Go, which is a fitness group at the school.
“My goal in life is to make an impact,” she said. “I’m annoyingly positive, but I’d choose to be that way, over being pessimistic, any day. I grew up watching my mother bless others and I saw the impact that made. I’ve grown to try to do the same, making this world a better place, simply by loving people, showing kindness, being an encourager and blessing others. I feel this can be my goal, not only in my classroom, but at the grocery store, when I’m at church, anywhere! “Teaching is so rewarding, but incredibly difficult,” Falk noted. “We are not only teachers; we’re counselors, moms, nurses, bodyguards…the list could go on. It can be draining at times, but this (Best of the Best) award has definitely filled my cup. It’s a blessing and I’m so appreciative.” Reach Jill Moon at 618-208-6448 and Twitter @jill_moon.
24 24 • December 2018 • Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend
THE BEST OF THE BEST
“Best of” Nurse Ferguson
Best of the Best nurse April Ferguson, of OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center, Alton, Illinois (Submitted photo)
ALTON — OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center registered nurse April Ferguson understands the importance of a dedicated health care team. Ferguson, born and raised in Godfrey, Illinois, overcame her own physical challenge at a young age. She was born with congenital hearing loss. She started wearing hearing aids at 2 years old. “I remember, because I was supposed to be talking and I wasn’t,” she recalled. Initially Ferguson started attending a class for the deaf at South Roxana Elementary
School when she was age 3. “That probably explains my love for school!” she noted. But, Ferguson made such strides that, in short order, she went on to enroll in traditional education, graduating from Alton High School. Ferguson did not receive a cochlear implant until nine years ago, when she was 20 years old. “She has always cared about the feelings of others, which has worked perfectly in providing TLC to her patients,” her dad Kurt Ferguson said. “She was destined
to be a nurse!” April said the same about herself. “I don’t think I had any one inspiration to choose my profession,” she noted. “I’ve always been an empathetic being and always been drawn to the hospital setting. I love getting to put my touch on a person’s journey in their life.” Ferguson received an associate degree in science and an Associate of Science of Nursing from Lewis and Clark Community College, in Godfrey. While working full time as a nurse, she
is continuing her education, currently enrolled at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She expects to graduate next year. “My family, friends and boyfriend are important in my daily life,” she said. “As long as they’re happy, so am I.” Ferguson’s proud parents and family are Kurt and Zoe Ferguson; her sister, Ali Berns, and her husband, Andrew; and, her niece, Mackenzie, and nephew, Connor.
“Best of” Firefighter Lt. Brian Estes GODFREY — Serving as a volunteer firefighter made all the difference to Godfrey Fire Protection District’s Lieutenant Brian Estes’ career path. “I started off as a volunteer with the department and fell in love with the job,” Estes recalled. “It is a great feeling being able to help others and be there for them in their time of need. “One of my favorite aspects about being a firefighter is, you never know what the day is going to bring,” said Estes, of Godfrey, Illinois, where he grew up. Estes is known to be very hard working, loyal and passionate about his job. “Lieutenant Estes is an incredible asset to our organization and the citizens of this community,” said Godfrey Fire Protection District Chief Erik Kambarian. “I wasn’t
surprised when he was voted the best. He is well respected among fellow firefighters for his knowledge, skills and leadership. It is a title he will accept with great humility, but a title well deserved.” Estes graduated from Alton High School in 2004. He received an associate degree in fire science from Lewis and Clark Community College, in Godfrey. In Estes’ personal life, it is important for him to provide a loving and caring home for his family. “It’s important for me to provide my kids with every opportunity I can and help others when I can,” he said. Estes and his wife, Missy, have two children: Adelyn, 7, and Rylan, 5. His parents are Kevin and Ellen Estes and his in-laws are Jerry and Paula Brooks.
Best of the Best Firefighter Lt. Brian Estes, Godfrey Fire Protection District, Godfrey, Illinois. (Submitted photo)
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Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend • December 2018 • 25
THANKS YOU FOR VOTING US
BEST HAMBURGERS IN THE RIVERBEND!!
Open All Year!
Wood River-Hartford School District is proud that our 8th Grade English Teacher has been voted the Best Teacher in the Riverbend Area three years in a row! Thank You for voting for her!!
618-254-1114
315 South 6th Street Wood River, IL, 62095
Hours: Sunday: Closed Monday-Thursday: 11AM-8PM Friday-Saturday: 11AM-9PM
THANKS FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE BEST OF THE BEST CAR WASH!
Tiffany Falk 8th Grade English Lewis & Clark Junior High
SMITH’S PEST CONTROL THANK YOU FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE BEST PEST CONTROL BUSINESSES IN THE RIVERBEND! 814 W. Carpenter Street Jerseyville, IL 62052 618-498-4536 www.facebook.com/pages/Smiths -Pest-Control/148829281827270
26 26 • December 2018 • Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend
I am honored to be the 2018 Best of the Best Orthopedic Doctor. Thank you to my patients for the opportunity to take care of you! I am truly humbled, and I appreciate all of your votes. Thank you to all of the nurses, physician assistants, athletic trainers, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals who help me provide excellent care. I am also grateful for my wife and daughters who support, encourage and inspire me every day.
Thank you! Dr. Aaron Omotola
THE BEST OF THE BEST
28 28 • December 2018 • Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend
THE BEST OF THE BEST
And the Winners Are... PET SERVICES
BEST GROOMER 1st - Club Paws, Inc. 2nd - Shampooches 3rd - Whisker Bones BEST VETERINARIAN 1st - Pope Animal Hospital 2nd - Formea Animal Hospital 3rd - Daniel & Randall Vet Clinic BEST DOGGIE DAYCARE 1st - Club Paws, Inc. 2nd - Club Whisker Bones 3rd - La Best Pet Resort BEST KENNEL/BOARDING FACILITY 1st - Club Paws, Inc. 2nd - La Best Pet Resort 3rd - Traveling Tails Inn BEST DOG TRAINER 1st - Club Paws, Inc. 2nd - La Best Pet Resort 3rd - Traveling Tails Inn AUTOMOTIVE BEST TIRE SHOP 1st - Andy’s Tires & Service 2nd - NTB - Alton 3rd - Tucker’s Automotive
BEST NEW CAR DEALER 1st - Roberts Ford 2nd - Quality Buick GMC Cadillac 3rd - Jack Schmitt Chevrolet BEST USED CAR DEALER 1st - Smart Choice Auto Sales 2nd - Roberts Ford 3rd - Quality Buick GMC Cadillac BEST AUTO BODY REPAIR 1st - Freer Auto Body 2nd - Woodman Collision Center 3rd - Andy’s Auto Body BEST AUTO REPAIR 1st - Bristow’s Automotive 2nd - Andy’s Tires & Service 3rd - Quick Lane at Roberts Ford BEST AUTO DETAILER 1st - Auto Butler Car Wash & Express Lube 2nd - PJ’s Pro Detailing Co. 3rd - Caulk’s Extreme Collision
BEST TOWING/ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE 1st - Bower’s Towing 2nd - Fred’s Towing 3rd - Bill & Joe’s Towing BEST MOTORCYCLE SALES & SERVICE 1st - Ted’s Motorcycle World 2nd - Midwest Motorsports 3rd - JMP Cycle BEST IMPORT AUTO DEALER 1st - Mungenast Toyota 2nd - Autocenters Nissan 3rd - Serra Honda of O’Fallon BEST CAR WASH 1st - Auto Butler Car Wash & Express Lube 2nd - Gorilla Express Auto Wash 3rd - Splish Splash Car Wash BEST OIL CHANGE 1st - Andy’s Tires & Service 2nd - Quick Lane at Roberts Ford 3rd - Rapid Lube
30 30 • December 2018 • Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend
R Sto oofi
THE BEST OF THE BEST
rm ng • Da Gut Cla ma ter ims ge/ s • S We Insu idin lco ra g me nce d
Ryan Construction & Roofing, LLC ryanconstructionroofing.com
Locally Established 1985
Free Estimates
618-792-1300
Licensed, Insured & Bonded Thank You For Voting Ryan Construction and Roofing, LLC as Best Roofer in the Riverbend Area
Vote Ryan Roofing
33 Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend • December 2018 • 33
STTHE BEST OF THE BEST
And the Winners Are... SHOPPING
BEST LOCAL JEWELRY STORE 1st - Maneke Jewelers 2nd - Meyer Jewelry 3rd - Hudson Jewelers BEST SHOE STORE 1st - Cleary’s Shoes & Boots 2nd - Allison’s Comfort Shoes & Boots 3rd - Glik’s BEST ANTIQUE STORE 1st - Alton Exchange Mall 2nd - Country Meadows 3rd - The Purple Ottoman BEST FLORIST 1st - Jeffrey’s Flowers by Design 2nd - Dick’s Flowers 3rd - A Wildflower Shop
BEST LOCAL FURNITURE STORE
1st - Alton Refrigeration & Home Furnishings 2nd - Kettle River Furniture 3rd - Home Sweet Home BEST LOCAL APPLIANCE STORE 1st - Alton Refrigeration & Home Furnishings 2nd - Mark’s Appliance 3rd - Best Buy BEST CONVENIENCE STORE 1st - Hit n Run 2nd - Quik Trip 3rd - Eppel’s Pantry BEST DAY SPA
BEST HARDWARE STORE
1st - Bliss Salon and Spa 2nd - Dutch Hollow Medical Day Spa 3rd - Merle Norman Cosmetics, Salon and Spa
1st - St. Peters Hardware & Rental 2nd - Ace Hardware 3rd - RP Lumber
BEST LOCAL GROCERY STORE
BEST PAWN SHOP
1st - Godfrey Meat Market 2nd - Schwegels 3rd - DK’s Market
1st - Sam’s Pawn Shop 2nd - Airline Pawn 3rd - Jerseyville Pawn
BEST LOCAL BOUTIQUE 1st - White Birch Interiors & Home Accents 2nd - Sweet Ashley’s Cottage 3rd - Rustic Roots BEST LOCAL ART FAIR
1st - Edwardsville Art Fair 2nd - Grafton’s Art in the Park 3rd - Salute to the Arts BEST BRIDAL & FORMAL WEAR 1st - Frew’s Bridal 2nd - Savvi Formal Wear 3rd - Elegant Brides BEST MEAT MARKET 1st - Godfrey Meat Market 2nd - Sever’s Market 3rd - Hansen Meat Company BEAUTY BEST HAIR SALON 1st - Bliss Salon & Spa 2nd - The Salon of Papa Toodles 3rd - Kristen’s Hair Studio BEST BARBER SHOP 1st - Fletcher’s Barber Shop 2nd - A Kut Above 3rd - Eaker’s Barber Shop
BEST NAIL SALON 1st - Lonnie’s Nail Salon 2nd - Beautiful Nails 3rd - US Nails BEST HAIR STYLIST 1st - Alyson Meyer 2nd - Wade Gibson 3rd - Cheri Seets BEST EYEBROW SHAPING 1st - Bliss Salon & Spa 2nd - Merle Norman Cosmetics & Spa 3rd - Body Restoration Salon & Spa BEST MASSAGE 1st - Midwest Massage 2nd - Body Restoration Salon & Spa 3rd - Healing Touch Wellness Center BEST TATTOO PARLOR 1st - Grand Piasa Body Art 2nd - Alton Tattoo 3rd - Evermore Gallery
34 34 • December 2018 • Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend
THE BEST OF THE BEST
Thank You!
We are so grateful for being voted
A big thank you Best to all the Best of the “Bunkhousers” Coffeewho voted us Best Coffee! Thank you ininthe the Riverbend Riverbend for supporting your local for the 7th year in a row. coffee roaster.
Fieldon, IL | Phone: 618-535-5700 Fieldon, IL | Phone: 618-535-5700 bunkhousejoe.com bunkhousejoe.com
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US THE BEST PEST CONTROL IN THE RIVERBEND AGAIN THIS YEAR!! 50 Overs Of Yearvice Ser
430 SOUTH PRAIRIE BETHALTO, IL 62010 (618) 377-9839
www.imelpestcontrol.net
6th year in a row!
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE BEST CAR WASHES IN THE RIVERBEND! 444 W. MacArthur Dr. Cottage Hills, IL 62018 618-698-4750
www.facebook.com/Gorilla-Express-Auto-Wash-Cottage-Hills-1528716127407615/
THANK YOU FOR VOTING FOR US!
35 Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend • December 2018 • 35
STTHE BEST OF THE BEST
And the Winners Are... SENIOR SERVICES:
BEST SKILLED NURSING FACILITY 1st - Eunice Smith Home 2nd - Meridian Village 3rd - Foxes Grove BEST MEMORY CARE FACILITY: 1st - Morningside of Godfrey 2nd - Cedarhurst 3rd - Meridian Village BEST SENIOR CENTER 1st - Senior Services Plus 2nd - Evergreen Place 3rd - Main Street Community Center BEST PRIVATE DUTY HOME CARE 1st - Absolute Health Care 2nd - Morning Star Home Health 3rd - Morning Glory Home Care BEST ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY 1st - United Methodist Village 2nd - Evergreen Place 3rd - Cedarhurst
BEST SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY 1st - United Methodist Village 2nd - Villa Rose Senior Living 3rd - Evergreen Place SERVICES: BEST BANK 1st - Liberty Bank 2nd - 1st Mid America Credit Union 3rd - The Bank of Edwardsville BEST CREDIT UNION 1st - 1st Mid America Credit Union 2nd - Midwest Members Credit Union 3rd - Scott Credit Union
BEST MORTGAGE COMPANY 1st - Liberty Bank 2nd - 1st Mid America Credit Union 3rd - Homestead Financial BEST FUNERAL HOME 1st - Pitchford Funeral Home 2nd - Gent Funeral Homes, Inc. 3rd - Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Homes
BEST INSURANCE AGENT 1st - Karen Wilson State Farm 2nd - Tom Lane State Farm 3rd - Barry Macias BEST REALTOR 1st - Mary Beiser - Paul Lauschke & Associates 2nd - Ginny Becker - Tarrant & Harmon Real Estate 3rd - Sharon Pratt Re/Max Riverbend BEST NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION 1st - Hope Animal Rescues 2nd - Oasis Women Center 3rd - Partners for Pets BEST CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 1st - Riverbend Growth Association 2nd - Ed-Glen Chamber of Commerce 3rd - Grafton Chamber of Commerce BEST DJ 1st - Mike Roper 2nd - Kristen Gray 3rd - DJ Brock BEST ANIMAL RESCUE 1st - Hope Rescues 2nd - Partners for Pets 3rd - Metro East Humane Society
BEST LOCAL PRIVATE SCHOOL 1st - Evangelical 2nd - Marquette Catholic High School 3rd - Zion Lutheran School BEST LOCAL COLLEGE 1st - Lewis & Clark Community College 2nd - SIU-E 3rd - CALC Institute BEST LAW FIRM 1st - Bassett Law Office 2nd - Simmons Hanly Conroy & Associates 3rd - Gori Julian & Associates BEST AUCTIONEER 1st - Harman Auction 2nd - Cody Hanold 3rd - Hilltop Auction
38 38 • December 2018 • Special Supplement to On The Edge of the Weekend
THE BEST OF THE BEST