The St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee of West Springfield is proud to honor Collins Tavern as the 2023 Olde Mittineague award recipient. Collins has been a staple in our community for many decades, the last six led by Bobby LeDoux and later joined by his daughter, Melissa LeDoux Christofori. As a teenager Melissa worked along side her father and formally took on more responsibility while attending college, ultimately where she decided to make Collins her career choice. Prior to that she had aspirations of a becoming a CPA. She and her parents had an agreement, in order for her to expand her role at the Tavern she had to further her education. This allowed her to explore opportunities that were best suited for her. 

When Bobby took Collins over in the seventies his business vision was simple- provide an affordable menu so all can enjoy, while earning a decent income to support his family. Prior to purchasing the tavern he was a Springfield firefighter, which was his true passion, do to an injury Bobby had to pivot and find a new passion. What better than offering a place where friends can meet for good times, tough times and all those in between. 

That spirit has endured over time and is evident in how the business flourishes today. True to the their word, the menu includes a draft beer for 95 cents and a meal for under five dollars. But that’s not why the tavern is deserving of this distinguished award. The entire Collins team; management, associates and patrons unite as one family to offer support to the community when life gets tough. They consistently host cancer survivorship benefits, humbly and quietly help families and children in need, support fellow businesses and give back to the community nonprofit organizations. Tonight we’re honored to welcome the entire Collins team in accepting the Olde Mittineague award and look forward to celebrating with them over the St. Patrick’s season.