Celebrating Our Everyday Superheroes: Reader Raves 2025
BY TIERA N. WRIGHT
Special
to The Republican Wham! Bam! Pow!
Readers have raved again, and it’s time for our winners to take their bow!
Last year it wasn’t a bird or a plane, but a night amongst the stars. It’s no wonder that this year won’t be any different, our Reader Raves winners have always been super. Not all heroes wear capes, and who needs superhuman strength when you have community support and a Reader Raves plaque.
Among the 100 categories, the origin story of new winners, including Glendale Ridge Vineyard for Best Local Winery; Collins Electric Co. for Best Electrician; and Aunt Cathie’s Kitchen for Best Bakery, have now been written as they join the league of past winners. There are no villains in sight, just marvelous repeat winners such as Big Y, Manny’s Appliances, and Macken’s Sliders for Best Supermarket, Appliance
Store and Local Food Truck, respectively.
This year’s Reader Raves winners will soar to new heights when they are honored at the annual Reader Raves Celebration, which will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke on Wednesday, October 16, 2024. While accepting their award, Reader Raves 2025 winners and their guests will enjoy a celebratory evening of food, fun, and plenty of surprises. Reader Raves winners will receive two complimentary tickets, while tickets thereafter can be purchased for $85 each by visiting ReaderRaves2025.rsvpify.com, or by contacting Coleen Dunn at 413788-1250 or CDunn@repub. com. Monday, September 30th is the last day to RSVP. Amassing over 44,000 category votes, voting for Reader Raves 2025 commenced on Sunday, June 2, 2024, and concluded on Sunday, July 28, 2024. Throughout that peri-
od, participants were able to vote for their favorite business (once per valid email address on ReaderRaves.com) falling under Recommended Services, Where to Shop, Food, Fun & Fitness, and Ask a Local. Reader Raves recipients aren’t the only winners! Participants who voted in 25 or more categories, won gift certificates to a Reader Raves category winner of their choice. Congratulations go out to our grand prize winner Richard Sullivan, who won a $500 gift certificate as well as our second-place winner, Amanda Janisieski who won a $250 North Elm Butcher Block gift certificate. Lastly, Margaret Doyle won a $150 gift certificate to Red Rose Pizzeria in Springfield.
As always, Reader Raves wouldn’t come together without the team of staff behind 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, Michele Tingley, John Mazzulli, yours truly, Tiera Wright and Reader Raves emcee, Mark French.
So, let’s roll out the red carpet and congratulate our everyday
superheroes, the 2025 Reader Raves winners!
Special thanks to the photographers for this Reader Raves
Special Section: Don Treeger, Hoang
Nguyen , Nate Blais, Bob Egan, Steve Smith and Coleen Dunn.
‘Leon’
Here is Mark French, Chief Revenue Officer for the Springfield Republican HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican
Looking to make a move?
Why not consider West Springfield as your new residence?
West Springfield has been selected by voters in the Reader Raves 2025 poll presented by The Republican and MassLive as Best Town to Live In.
“I was thrilled to learn that West Springfield was chosen for the second year in a row as the winner of the ‘Best City/Town to Live In’ category of Reader Raves. We are incredibly honored to be recognized with this distinction and it is a testament to the vibrancy of West Side’s community. We are proud to be a city where residents and businesses thrive and we look forward to continued growth and excellence,” said Mayor William Reichelt.
This is an especially exciting year for West Springfield to earn this distinction as they celebrate the 250th anniversary of West Springfield’s incorporation.
“West Side has a long
Best town to live in West springfield
history of being a community like no other, and we continue that excellence today. Time and time again, we hear stories of neighbors helping neighbors, of the community welcoming new residents from places all over the world, and of the community coming together to support one another,”
Mayor Reichelt said.
Whether you have lived in West Side your entire life or you just recently moved here, it doesn’t take long to realize what a great place West Springfield is to live, work and raise a family, he noted.
West Springfield has grown so much as a community over the past
several years. We’ve experienced a resurgence of our downtown Central Business District, which we are excited to see continue following the infrastructure investments we’ve made to the area. In addition to the many local businesses that contribute to our community and attract countless visitors, we
are home to the largest fair in New England, The Big E, which is an incredibly unique attraction for the area,” Mayor Reichelt said. To learn more about the Town of West Springfield, visit their website at townofwestspringfield.org.
PHOTO BY COLEEN DUNN
Best LocaL Bank and Best Mortgage Lender
BY KEITH O’CONNOR Special to The Republican
If it is simple you want, it is simple you will get at PeoplesBank of Holyoke, named Best Local Bank in the Reader Raves 2025 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive. “Real. Simple. Banking. When life gets real, you need a bank that keeps things real simple.” That is what their website promises.
“Winning Best Local Bank and Best Mortgage Lender is very gratifying for all of us here at PeoplesBank,” said Brian Canina, president.
“To me, it means that we are delivering on our promise of ‘Making Banking Simple.’ We may say we’re ‘Simple’ in our ads,
but the proof is in ‘are we able to deliver upon that?’ and that means different things to different customers. For some, it’s convenient hours, 7 days a week availability. For others, it’s local loan decisions, including mortgages but also business loans, made quickly by local people. And for many, it’s no more complicated than getting great customer service with a smile, and having all of your banking questions answered. We believe ‘Simple’ is just better, and so to be voted the best, we believe that translates into delivering on what we promise – the most ‘Simple’ banking experience around,” he added.
PeoplesBank is a $4.4
billion mutual bank founded in 1885 to serve depositors, employees, and the community. The mutual organizational structure empowers them to focus on the long-term viability of the bank and the best interests of their customers. The bank currently has 18 banking centers located in Massachusetts and Connecticut.
And, whether you are close to home, or somewhere around the country, PeoplesBank has 55,000 free ATMs from coast to coast.
For locations and more information about the PeoplesBank experience, visit bankatpeoples.com or call 413-538-9500.
PHOTOS BY COLEEN DUNN
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican
A little bit of Mexico can be found in Chicopee at Frontera Grill where authentic Mexican food is served up fresh daily.
The family-style Mexican restaurant, with additional locations in Springfield and Manchester, Connecticut, has been named Best Mexican Restaurant in the Reader Raves 2025 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive.
The localy-owned-and-operated restaurant serves up ethnic food such as chimi changas, fajitas, burritos and more, including their special guacamole, all made fresh daily using quality ingredients and produce.
“We have received many Reader Raves awards over
Best Mexican RestauRant Frontera Grill
the years for Best Mexican Restaurant. It means the world to us and we are thankful that voters have chosen us over other restaurants. Our goal isn’t to win awards but to create the best possible meal for our customers, but awards do help your business,” said owner Federico Mendiola.
“Most of our customers realize the difference - that we serve real food with real ingredients along with a side of good service,” he added. Not all Mexican food is spicy and their dishes are meticulously prepared with
different way, a Mariachi band plays in Chicopee on Tuesday evenings and in Springfield on Thursday.
Frontera Chicopee is located on 1625 Memorial Drive, in Springfield at 1411 Boston Road, and 170 Slater St. in Manchester.
For more information and hours, visit fronterafreshmex.com or call 413-612-2800 for Chicopee, 413-455-2050 for Springfield, and 860-791-8415 for Manchester. Mendiola also operates a similar restaurant in Amherst under the name Garcia’s Restaurant and Bar located on 51 East Pleasant St. For more information, visit garciasamherst.com or call 413-230-3017.
PHOTO BY BILL EGAN
Best Family Physician Caring HealtH Center
“We are incredibly proud to receive the
This recognition is a testament to the dedication, skill, and compassion our team brings to the community every day.”
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican
Community health centers, like Caring Health Center, play a vital role in the U.S. healthcare system by providing essential services, especially to underserved populations.
Recognizing the importance of the role they play and the quality of care they have received, voters in Reader Raves 2025, the annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive, have named Caring Health Center Best Family Physician. It is the third consecutive year the Springfield-based center has won that honor.
“We are incredibly proud to receive the Reader Raves award for Best Family Physician. This recognition is a testament to the dedication, skill, and compassion our team
brings to the community every day. It reflects our commitment to providing exceptional care and the unwavering support of everyone at Caring Health Center,” said Tania M. Barber, president and CEO of Caring Health Center. “Thank you for this honor.”
Founded in 1995, Caring Health Center is a federally qualified health center dedicated to providing affordable, high-quality medical care, as well as behavioral health and dental care to all – regardless of their ability to pay. Caring Health Center also offers pharmacy services, pediatric services, lab services, reproductive health, a wellness center, W.I.C. services, interpreting, insurance navigation and a refugee service. Caring Health Center operates at several locations in Springfield with plans for larger,
state-of-the-art centers on 473 Sumner Avenue and 1235 Boston Road in the coming year. It operates an on-the-job training program for dental and medical assistants at the Tania M. Barber Learning Institute. No way to get there? Caring Health Center operates two transportation buses to pick you up and get you where you are going. It also provides free prescription deliveries.
For those looking for a new doctor, Caring Health Center is currently accepting new patients. Call 413-739-1100 to speak with a Patient Registration staff member or fill out the form on a link provided on their website.
To learn more about the services offered at each health center and their hours of operation and urgent care, visit caringhealth.org or call 413-739-1100.
PHOTO BY BILL EGAN
Best CBD shop/Dispensary
6 Brick’s cannaB is dispensary
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican
Weed voters have spoken.
They have chosen 6 Brick’s Cannabis Dispensary in Springfield as the Best CBD Shop/Dispensary in Reader Raves 2025 presented by The Republican and MassLive.
6 Brick’s Cannabis Dispensary is a Black-owned, family-run, local business providing premium marijuana products to the community.
“It is extremely exciting and humbling that both our customers and the community view us in such high regards. My hope when customers visit us is that they truly see what makes us different, from our expanding menu, to our focus on the community and engaging with local nonprofits, to advocating for what is right in the cannabis industry,” said owner Payton Shubrick.
“It is our focus on customers that truly distinguishes us. We want to be sure to connect our customers with the best
possible products, and I think they see the difference and the time and attention we offer when servicing them,” she added.
“It is extremely exciting and humbling that both our customers and the community view us in such high regards.”
While cannabis became legal in Massachusetts for adult use in 2016, Shubrick noted there is still a long way to go in overcoming the negative
stigma associated with weed and its sale.
6 Brick’s source from local businesses and growers to obtain the best marijuana products that are of the highest quality while supporting the local community of cultivators. 6 Brick’s offers customers a wide variety of products, including flower, concentrates, edibles, prerolls, topicals and more. Their large selection along with a knowledgeable and friendly staff ensures that their budtenders are able to find the perfect product for their customer’s need.
6 Brick’s offers pick up so you can order online and pick up your order.
Located on 1860 Main St. in Springfield, 6 Brick’s is open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
For more information, visit 6bricks.com or call 413-2858115.
Best AppliAnce shop
manny’s appliances
BY KEITH O’CONNOR SPECIAL TO THE REPUBLICAN
New England’s fastest growing appliance retailer, Manny’s Appliances, has been named Best Appliance Store in the Reader Raves 2025 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive.
“We are very grateful and have won the award consecutively for many years. We pride ourselves on doing a good job for our customers, but it is up to the voters and we are glad that they still appreciate what we do by voting us number one again,” said George Rodriguez, marketing director for Manny’s Appliances.
As for their products, Rodriguez noted they sell “pretty much what is available everywhere” - GE,
Frigidaire, Maytag, Bosch, Electrolux, Café, KitchenAid, LG, Thermador, Monogram, Viking, Fisher & Paykel, Samsung, and so many others listed on their website.
“The difference is we have been around for a long time. Our employees know what they are talking about and you won’t find someone on the floor who has only been with us an hour. They are able to find the product that best suits your needs, not just what we want to sell you. And we back it all up with quick delivery, and another big difference, we have our own service department,” he said.
It’s not everyone who can pay off their purchase in one day. Manny’s knows that some budgets are tight and
they have special financing available to spread your payments over time, including the Manny’s BrandSource Credit Card.
“We now have a high-end area in our Wilbraham store that we call our gourmet area. It has been updated with some of the most cutting edge, upscale, deluxe appliances found in western Massachusetts. Stop in and see them,” Rodriguez said.
Today there are Manny’s stores in Wilbraham, Hadley, Greenfield, Westfield, Leominster, Sutton, Framingham and Shrewsbury. Additional stores are located in Canton, CT, and in Keene and Claremont, NH.
For more information on hours, locations, and phone numbers, visit mannystv. com.
PHOTOS BY BILL EGAN
Best ChiropraCtor Valley ChiropraCtiC
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican
When it hurts, Valley Chiropractic & Rehabilitation can provide relief, rehabilitation and recovery.
Recognizing them for their efforts of combining nonprescription medication and/or
spinal manipulation to ease their pain, patients have given staff at Valley Chiropractic and Rehabilitation a vote of confidence by naming them Best Chiropractor in the Reader Raves 2025 annual poll presented by the Republican and MassLive.
“It is a very a high honor to
be voted the best for anything you do, but it makes it extra special that the patients you have been taking care of voted for you,” said Scott R. Storozuk, D.C., co-owner along with his wife Anna N. Storozuk, D.C.
“We have a very loyal pa-
tient base with a lot of repeat patients, so I think that shows how appreciative they are for the care we provide,” he added.
For chiropractic care they offer services for sprains and strains, herniations, muscle spasms, headaches, and whiplash. Physical therapy provides help for retraining damaged muscles and strengthening and retraining muscles, tendons, and ligaments damaged from car accidents or sports injuries. Massage therapy helps to mobilize and relax injured or stressed muscle fibers, break up muscular adhesions and muscle spasms and increase blood flow.
“One of the things that sets us apart is our staff. They have been with us for a long time which results in being
able to provide very consistent, high-quality care to our patients over the years. I think our patients appreciate that consistency and the flexibility we offer them,” Storozuk said.
A no-cost, courtesy transportation service is offered to and from both their Springfield and Holyoke offices to most local areas. They currently are using an air-conditioned Ford Taurus or an air-conditioned Toyota Avalon as their transportation vehicles.
Valley Chiropractic & Rehabilitation has offices at 155 Maple St. in Springfield and 850 High St. in Holyoke. To reach the Springfield office call (413) 285-8060 or to reach the Holyoke office call (413) 536-0142.
For more information, visit valleychiropractors.com.
PHOTO BY DON TREEGER
Best Kitchen and Bathroom remodeler
Ideal kItchens
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican
“It feels great to know our customers are happy with our work. Word of mouth spreads when you do a good job, and most of what we do
is from referrals,” said Steve Wenninger about their family business - Ideal Kitchens and Home Improvements in Chicopee.
Ideal Kitchens has been voted as Best Kitchen Re-
modeler in Reader Raves 2025, the annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive.
“I think one of the things that sets us apart is our installers who have a lot of
experience working for me, where a lot of businesses will subcontract and you don’t know who you are getting,” Wenninger said.
“They show up on time as promised and clean up before they leave,” he added.
Ideal Kitchens has been serving Massachusetts and Connecticut since 1973, specializing in kitchen cabinet refacing, custom kitchen design, and all aspects of remodeling and home improvement projects including bathrooms.
“One trend over the years has been a switch from oak and maple cabinets to painted cabinets which comprise 80% of our kitchen remodels today. Quartz is also the popular choice now over granite and is very durable and have good resistance to stains,” Wenninger said.
Ideal Kitchens has one of
the area’s largest showrooms featuring completely customized kitchens, walls of accessories, samples for all types of materials including sinks, cabinet doors, countertops, faucets, and more. They also utilize a digital platform that allows them to build your project on a large screen 42’ plasma television before any building begins.
Ideal Kitchens Home Improvement is located on 838 Grattan St. in Chicopee.
Hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday by appointment only.
Contact Ideal Kitchens for a free consultation by calling 413-532-2253, emailing customerservice@idealkitchens.us, or visiting their website at idealkitchens.us.
PHOTO BY FRED GORE
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to The Republican
Best College or University Holyoke Community College
Known for helping students overcome barriers to success and recognized for its academic excellence, Holyoke Community College (HCC) has been voted Best College/University in the Reader Raves 2025 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive.
“It feels great. It gives me a feeling of pride, and we’re honored,” said HCC President George Timmons.
“I believe that the broader community recognizes the value that HCC brings to Western Massachusetts. One of my goals for the college is to be recognized nationally and valued locally. And this is just a great example of how HCC is valued locally,” added Timmons, who is
beginning his second academic year as the college’s president.
The first two-year college in the Commonwealth, HCC is widely recognized as a leader in high-quality, affordable pathways to transfer or immediate entry into
the workforce. A designated Hispanic Serving Institution, HCC serves a diverse community with more than 80 degree and certificate programs, and online, blended, evening, and Saturday classes that accommodate the busy lives of their
students. HCC’s Center for Health Education, Kittredge Center for Business and Workforce Education, and HCC MGM Culinary Arts Institute, provide students with state-of-the-art resources as well as the knowledge and skills they need to be successful.
“We’ve got some exciting plans coming up for the new academic year,” Timmons said.
He noted they will be celebrating the expansion and relocation of the Thrive Student Resource Center, which operates the HCC Food Pantry, and helps students struggling with nonacademic, basic needs issues, such as food and housing insecurity. In November, HCC will be celebrating the opening of the Marieb Adult Learning
Success Center, a program dedicated to adult learners and the unique challenges that they face. And, in 2025, their very successful Itsy Bitsy Child Watch program will be moving into a newly renovated and expanded home across the hall from the Marieb Center.
“On a broader scale, we are also looking forward to implementing the state’s new free community college program, MassEducate. The impact that that could potentially have on the college is absolutely a game-changer in terms of attracting new students and reducing disparities in educational access and equity,” Timmons said. For more information, visit hcc.edu or call 413-5387000.
PHOTO BY HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN
PHOTO BY HOANG
Red Rose Pizzeria - Best Pizza Place
PHOTO BY HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican
Don’t be lazy. Get up off the couch and get some exercise by picking-your-own at Echo Hill Orchards in Monson, voted Best Pick-Your-Own Orchard in the Reader Raves 2025 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive.
“It’s amazing. We were so excited when we heard the news. We are a small, family-owned business and the recognition means a lot to us. We welcome everyone to come and get a slice of fall in the country at our orchards,” said Ashley Krupczak, whose parents, Rich and Terry Krupczak, purchased the property in 1997.
There are about 20 varieties of apples to pick from, but there are more than just apples.
Best Pick Your own Echo hill orchards
The orchard is also ripe for picking sunflowers, peaches and pears. And by the end of September there will also be Jack-O-Lantern pumpkins for carving and smaller sugar pumpkins.
Customers are welcome to bring their own wagons to the orchard where they can pick a peck bag of apples for $20 covering up to two pickers, half bushel bag for $35 covering 1-5 pickers, and a bushel bag for $50 covering up to 8 pickers. If you are not picking, you can accompany a group for $2.50.
Pickers can also enjoy freshly made apple cider donuts, fresh popcorn and a variety of other small snacks, but their main food comes from food trucks. You can visit their website to see their food truck schedule. No outside food or coolers are
allowed on the premises. Their vineyards are for more than just picking. They also bear fruit for their Winery & Distillery, where you can rest a spell after picking and imbibe in a glass of one of their many tasty wines or
also has a small country style gift shop where visitors can purchase their hand-poured candles, as well as a selection of accessories and apparel.
For more information, picking days and hours, as well as their winery hours, visit echohillorchards.com or call 413-267-3303.
signature drinks and alcoholic slushies.
Echo Hill
Echo Hill Orchards Winery & Distillery is located on 101 Wilbraham Road in Monson.
PHOTO BY HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN
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ongmeadow | AWBrown.com
I 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 11 years in a row 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!
– Mayor Domenic J. Sarno
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Best electrician Collins ElECtriC
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
experienced team as tops in the category of Best Electrician in the Reader Raves 2025
Republican and MassLive.
“It is a special honor to be acknowledged for what we do. We are incredibly excited
OVER 110 YEARS AND STAYING CURRENT ▪ FOUNDED IN 1906
Building on Tradition
Collins
and happily surprised to receive the award, especially knowing it is voted on by members of the community,” said Patrick Egan, vice president of finance.
“The Reader Raves award is a testament to the highly trained, knowledgeable men and women out in the field who do quality work every day for our customers and who stand ready to help them meet any challenging problems along the way,” he added.
Established in 1906 and in its fifth generation of ownership, Collins Electric Co., Inc. is an electrical contracting and design firm serving commercial, industrial, and institutional facilities across western Massachusetts. They do not offer any residential work. At the core of its daily operations, is hands-on management by members of the Collins family.
They are the largest employer of electrical trades-
people across the region, and a leader in designing and wiring office buildings, hotels, manufacturing facilities, warehouses, shopping centers, parking garages, hospitals, and educational facilities of every size.
Among their many services include electrical construction, communications, fire alarm and security, medium voltage, solar, and electrical services.
At Collins Electric, safety isn’t just a word, it’s a priority.
Over the years they have won numerous safety awards, including from a national contracting organization for going a full year with zero injuries.
For more information, visit collinselectricco.com or call 413-592-9221 for their Chicopee location or 413442-0824 for their Pittsfield office.
Special to the Republican Voters wired by Collins Electric have chosen their
annual poll presented by The
PHOTO BY BILL EGAN
Best LocaLLy owned Furniture store
Fly by night
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican Furniture is what you make of it.
And Fly By Night makes the “best furniture” and has the “best customer service” say customers.
It could be a nice premium sofa for the living room on which to settle in and watch your favorite television show. Or the comfiest bed and mattress for a good night’s sleep. Or even an artfully created dining table where families can come together for a good meal and discuss what kind of day they had.
Whatever you are looking for - living room, bedroom, or dining room furniture, sleepers and futons, mattresses, office furniture from desks to bookcases to chairs, and even custom fabrics to choose from - Fly
By Night in Northampton offers beautiful, durable and well-built furnishings styled and scaled for your home or office.
For their great selection of quality American-made products combined with excellent service, voters in the Reader Raves 2025 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive have selected Fly By Night as Best Locally Owned Furniture Store.
“We always feel good when we win an award. It is nice to be recognized for what we do. We are affecting people’s lives in a significant way with our furniture and we enjoy the customer feedback we get. Most businesses like ours that are family run often can’t survive in today’s business world. We are survivors. If you are
going to create a sustainable business, you have to keep people happy over the long term - from your staff to your customers,” said Richard Zafft, president of Fly By Night.
Fly By Night was founded over 30 years ago with a van and a street vendor’s permit, selling handmade futons along the sidewalk in Northampton and delivering them in a classic VW van. Since then, Fly By Night has expanded into a full-grown furniture store connected by a network of artisans around the country.
Showroom hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5 p.m.
For more information, visit flybynight.com or call 413-586-1464.
PHOTO BY DON TREEGER
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican
When you want to get rid of pests, you want the best.
And voters in the annual Reader Raves 2025 poll presented by The Republican and MassLive have rated American Pest Solutions the best at what they do.
“I’m very happy and proud to be recognized. It speaks volumes to how much we care about our service and commitment to our customers,” said entomologist Bob Russell, president of American Pest Solutions.
Abraham Russell founded American Pest Solutions in 1913 - providing residential and commercial services - and today it is the oldest family-owned pest control company in Massachusetts representing five generations of Russells.
“Some 110 years in western Massachusetts, five generations of us, no one can say that about their company,” Russell said.
American Pest Solutions is a pioneer in the use of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques, actually using the legislated model before it was passed into law. IPM is a science-based
Best exterminator american pest solutions
approach to managing pests that uses a combination of tools and strategies to minimize risks to people, the environment, and the economy.
For anyone wondering what may be invading their home inside or out, American Pest Solutions has a pest identification page on their website where you can go to see over 30 pictures of which pest may be bothering you and find information about them.
If you see any unidentified pest crawling or flying around your home or office, take a photograph and email it to 413pestfree.com with details of its discovery and they will provide you with a confirmed identification and expert treatment recommendations.
With much cooler weather around the corner, Russell noted fall is migration time for mice who will be looking for a warm shelter.
“You need to be diligent because we know that mice, especially the deer mouse, carry diseases such as Lyme disease,” he said.
For more information, visit 413pestfree.com or call 857-524-2991.
PHOTO BY BILL EGAN
12 YEARS
Wow, what an incredible journey it has been! For 12 years in a row, the Springfield Regional Chamber has proudly held the coveted title of ‘Reader Raves’ Best Chamber of Commerce.’ It’s not just an achievement; it’s a testament to the steadfast trust and support you’ve bestowed upon us.
As a regional Chamber, our purpose has always been to foster connections among members, fueling growth and sparking collaborations that elevate our entire community. And thanks to our dedicated members, we’re not just thriving; we’re thriving together.
So, here’s to you, our incredible supporters, for 12 years of confidence, and commitment. Together, we’ve achieved greatness, and together, we’ll continue to shape the future of the Greater Springfield region.
Best CannaBis Budtender JimBuddy’s
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to The Republican
Do you know what a budtender is?
“They are like bartenders, but for cannabis,” said Jim Robinson, owner of the family run JimBuddy’s Rec Shop - Recreational Cannabis Dispensary.
Merriam-Webster defines budtender as “a person who serves customers at an establishment where cannabis products are sold.”
Voters in Reader Raves 2025, the annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive, have selected JimBuddy’s Rec Shop as having the Best Cannabis Budtender.
“We have the best budtenders around, who are very skilled and personable in delivering the best custom-
er experience by helping customers to connect with the right product,” Robinson said.
“We’re coming up on completing our second year in business after opening on Oct. 1, 2022. It feels great to be honored by voters and I’m very proud of the recognition,” he added.
Specifically, voters recognized Nate Jaszek as their “best budtender.”
“He is a young sharp kid who really knows his weed and is great with customers. Nate joined us 18 months ago and is a college student who works seasonally for us,” Robinson said.
JimBuddy’s has over 57 brands to choose from in numerous categories including flower, pre-rolls, vaporizers, concentrates, edibles, tinc-
tures, topicals and seeds.
“We have a variety of products for people to try and we are seeing more customers come in for therapeutic uses,” Robinson said.
To save time, JimBuddy’s offers on-line ordering for pick-up.
JimBuddy’s Rec Shop is located on 1269 Memorial Drive in Chicopee, where you will also find JimBuddy’s Smoke Shop.
Hours for the Rec Shop are Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. For the Smoke Shop, hours are daily 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
For more information, visit jimbuddysrecshop.com or call 413-331-2954 for the Rec Shop and 413-331-3913 for the Smoke Shop.
PHOTOS SUBMITTED
Best Candy shop Maureen’s sweet shoppe
“We treat our customers like family and kids are always first on our mind when they come into the store.”
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to The Republican Sweetness comes in all forms, but the most popular is found in the handmade chocolates and other candies at Maureen’s Sweet Shoppe in East Longmeadow.
“Earning the title of Best Candy Shop means the world to us and validates the hard work we put into making our chocolates. It shows us that customers appreciate what we do as much as we appreciate them,” said owner Maureen Basile about being voted tops in Reader Raves 2025, the annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive.
“We treat our customers like family and kids are always first on our mind when they come into the store,” she added.
When the store isn’t filled with all kinds of special
goodies for Valentine’s Day and Easter - Basile is now getting ready for her Halloween and Thanksgiving customers - chocolate truffles and turtles are the store’s biggest sellers alongside caramel chocolates, both salted and regular, all kinds of fudge, and chocolate-covered marshmallow pops. Chocolate lovers also have a wide selection of bites to choose from such as raspberry creams, peanut butter, orange creams, coconut, nut clusters, nougats, toffee alongside several varieties of nut barks, chocolate covered nuts and coffee beans and fudge of all kinds. And there is still more to choose from - chocolate dipped strawberries, chocolate pretzels, chocolate covered Oreos, caramel chocolate popcorn, nonpareils both really big and regular size, choco -
late caramel apples, barks including white chocolate popping with color from Fruity Pebbles added in, and much more.
Basile can also add her special touch with beautiful chocolates for birthday parties, workplace functions, fundraising, banquets, showers, weddings and other events and special occasions. The chocolatier especially enjoys putting her artistry to work on custom orders.
Maureen’s Sweet Shoppe is located at 6 Center Square in East Longmeadow. Hours are Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For more information, call (413) 222-2642 or fill out a “contact us” form on their website at maureenssweetshoppe.com.
PHOTO BY BILL EGAN
Our EMA doctors and staff display an unparalleled passion for dentistry, patient care and comfort. We invite you to experience a lifetime of care and trust that a beautiful, healthy smile is achievable for everyone!
EMA Dental is a multi-doctor, family-owned dental practice with a preventative oriented dental hygiene team second to none! In East Longmeadow, Northampton and Westfield, we offer a multitude of services under our one roof including prosthodontic specialty care. Refresh teeth whitening services offered in all locations.
Our EMA doctors and staff display an unparalleled passion for dentistry, patient care and comfort. We invite you to experience a lifetime of care and trust that a beautiful, healthy smile is achievable for everyone!
Thank you for voting us Best of the Valley 2024
Lisa Emirzian, DMD Esthetic Dentistry
Alissa Mariano, DMD, FACP Prosthodontics
Rebecca Cohen, DMD General Dentistry
Raffi Kazanjian, DMD General Dentistry
Barbara Samuels, DMD General Dentistry
Steven Johnson, DDS General, Endo & Surgery
Alissa Mariano, DMD, FACP Prosthodontics
Raffi Kazanjian, DMD General Dentistry
Barbara Samuels, DMD General Dentistry
Lisa Emirzian, DMD Esthetic Dentistry
Rebecca Cohen, DMD General Dentistry
Vincent Mariano, DMD, FACP Prosthodontics
Springfield Museums - Best Museum
PHOTO BY HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN
Sweat Power Yoga - Best Yoga Studio PHOTO BY HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN
Best funeral home puerta del cielo funeral home
“I think it is the service we provide to families who appreciate our compassion during their time of grief and the quality of our work,” said Jorge Colon.
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to The Republican Serving the public for over 25 years, Puerta Del Cielo Funeral Home in Springfield has been voted as Best Funeral Home in Reader Raves 2025, the annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive.
sion during their time of grief and the quality of our work,” said Colon.
“The vote of confidence from voters tells me we are doing the best, the right thing for every single one of our clients,” he added.
Because they are Latino owned, Colon said staff at Puerta del Cielo can communicate easily with Spanish speaking families, about 80-90% of whom make up their business.
Jorge Colon and Joseph Nowak founded Puerta Del Cielo Funeral HomePuerta Del Cielo literally means Gates of Heaven - at its present location in 1997 to provide quality funeral services to the growing Hispanic community. While opening to serve the Hispanic community, over the past five years, they have served many members of the growing diversified community of the “City of Homes.”
“I think it is the service we provide to families who appreciate our compas-
“We welcome everyone,” Colon said.
“Our Puerto Rican customers especially look to us to incorporate many funeral customs from the island, and we do our best to create them as close as we possibly can. We also understand the culture, that Latinos are very emotional, which others might not understand,” he added.
The funeral parlor has
PHOTO BY BILL EGAN
adopted tailor-made software which makes for a smoother experiencewith customizable obituary pages, easy to build memorial videos, simplified after-care and funeral live streaming designed to put families first.
A pre-plan form can be found on their website puertadelcielo.com to select from among traditional, graveside, memorial or cremation services.
Colon operates two funeral parlor locations including Puerta Del Cielo Funeral Home on 730 State Street in Springfield. Call 413-732-3253 or email puertadelcielo@aol.com. Their second location, called North End Chapel, is located on 130 Carew St. in Springfield. Call them at 413-732-5002 or email puertadelcielo@aol.com for more information.
Best ChildCare/PresChool Square one
“Reader Raves is such a fun way to show appreciation for all the work that our dedicated staff does every day.”
- Kristine Allard, vice president of Development & Communication for Square One.
WATER VIEW DINING WATER VIEW DINING
OPEN YEAR ROUND OPEN YEAR ROUND
BY KEITH O’CONNOR Special to the Republican
For over 140 years, Square One has been providing young children and their families the foundation they need to achieve long-term success.
Thankful for their incredible efforts on behalf of the families and children they have served over the years, voters in the Reader Raves 2025 opinion poll presented by The Republican and MassLive have selected Square One as Best Child Care/Preschool. Walk through the doors at any Square One location and you will find hundreds
of young children ready to learn. Whether they are playing, eating, reading or singing, happy energy fills the air at every Square One location.
Square One is no stranger to the Reader Raves winner’s circle, having won recognition in the category of Best Child Care/Preschool many times.
“Reader Raves is such a fun way to show appreciation for all the work that our dedicated staff does every day,” said Kristine Allard, vice president of Development & Communication for Square One.
“Our staff includes edu-
cators who have been doing this work for nearly 50 years. We take great pride in our growth and evolution, as we continue to find new ways to meet the ever-changing needs of the children and families we serve. The fact that our community continues to recognize us with this special recognition means so much to all of us. We cannot wait to honor our team, along with all the other awardees, at this year’s celebration, she added.”
For locations and more information, visit startatsquareone.org or call 413732-5183.
PHOTO BY BILL EGAN
Best Butcher North elm butcher b lock
PHOTO BY COLEEN DUNN
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republi A family-owned business serving their customers since 1947 with all their butcher needs, North Elm
“It is a great honor to be recognized and to know our customers think that we are doing a good job. I enjoy the experience of talking with my customers, getting to know them, and making sure they are getting the right cut of meat for them,” said owner and top butcher Dan Puza, Jr.
Puza tells the story best about his family legacy on their Facebook page.
Butcher Block in Westfield has been named Top Butcher in the annual Reader Raves 2025 poll presented by The Republican and MassLive.
“From the time I was a child I always knew exactly what I wanted to do when I grew up. I wanted to follow in my family’s footsteps, those of my Great-Grand Father, Grandfather, Father and Uncle who have all owned and operated The Butcher Block. They have instilled a commitment of
excellence to bringing Westfield the best meats, seafood, and deli with a great customer experience that we still follow today. I am so incredibly proud of what my family and team of employees have built in our store and community as I could not have done it without them. We also couldn’t have done any of this without our incredibly loyal customers who have all become part of our extended family, thank you for always supporting us. We would not be here if it was not for you.”
North Elm Butcher Block can meet all of your catering needs, and customers can also rent their North Elm Butcher Block food truck for their event.
If you are hungry, you can have a sandwich made right on the spot for you at the deli counter, or select from a number of items such as brisket grilled cheese, cheeseburger, brisket sandwich, French fries and more from their truck until 2 p.m.
North Elm Butcher Block is located on 37 North Elm St. in Westfield.
Hours are Sunday from 8 a.m. to noon, Monday and Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed on Wednesday, Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For more information, and their full catering menu, visit northelmbb.com or call 413-562-6759.
Experience Our First Class Service
Whether you choose the Log Cabin or our tented Upper Vista you are guaranteed to have the wedding of your dreams! The Log Cabin venue sits on the top of the scenic Mt. Tom with breathtaking views of the valley. Our ballroom offers a private outdoor ceremony site and terrace. Upper Vista sits on the highest peak of the property and provides unforgettable views of the Pioneer Valley.
Best jeweler hannoush jewelers
113 Center Street
Chicopee, MA 01013 ChicopeeEyecare.com 413-592-7777
We are committed to providing you with the highest quality of eye care and to treating you with kindness, dignity, and respect.
BY KEITH O’CONNOR
Special to the Republican Integrity in business, respect for individuals, professional conduct in words and actions and a commitment to understand each customer’s needs.
The employees of Hannoush Jewelers stand by those promises and voters in the Reader Raves 2025 annual poll presented by The Republican and MassLive agree by naming them Best Jeweler.
“We are incredibly honored and grateful to have been recognized as the #1 jeweler in our community. This recognition is a testament to the trust and confi-
network includes more than 50 company-owned and franchised locations.
“As a family-owned jewelry store, we take great pride in the personal connection we have with our customers. We are not only selling jewelry, we are creating lasting memories. We care deeply about our customers and are committed to understanding their needs and desires. Our focus on design and manufacturing ensures that every piece we offer is crafted with the utmost attention to detail. In addition to our custom designs, we carry a curated selection of national jew-
“As a family-owned jewelry store, we take great pride in the personal connection we have
with our customers.
We are not only selling jewelry, we are creating lasting memories.”
- Harmouche, general manager of the 1630 Boston Road location in Springfield
dence our customers and voters have placed in us over the years. They have acknowledged our unwavering commitment to provide high-quality products, exceptional service, and strong value. We are proud to see that our dedication to excellence has not gone unnoticed,” said Said Harmouche, general manager of their 1630 Boston Road location in Springfield.
Family owned and operated, Hannoush Jewelers has built a reputation for providing exceptional quality and value beginning when the first Hannoush store opened in Massachusetts in 1980. Today the Hannoush Jewelers
elry brands and watches,” Harmouche said.
“Our selection of jewelry is distinguished by its quality, craftsmanship, and uniqueness. We carefully choose pieces that resonate with our commitment to excellence and that offer something special to our customers. Whether it’s a custom-designed engagement ring or a timeless watch, our collection is curated to reflect the diverse tastes and preferences of our clientele. We strive to offer something that is not only beautiful, but also meaningful,” he added.
For more information, visit hannoush.com or call 413-439-2886.
PHOTO BY HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN
T hank You Supermarket and Package Store Best
