Best Of - 2011 by The Times of NWI

Z1 | product

TH E

BA N K of choice

Our business is banking, but along the way, we’ve

BEST BANK

adopted a culture of shared values that has sup-

The Times

ported our mission to be the Bank of Choice in Northern Indiana. It is this commitment to excellence that has propelled our organization to pledge a higher standard of service to the Northern Indiana community. As we continue to grow as an organi-

BEST PLACE TO WORK The Times

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE The Times

zation and as a family, the bank’s reputation and commitment to service excellence continues to set

BEST BANK FOR BUSINESS

us apart as a premier organization. Centier received

Northwest Indiana Business Quarterly

a number of awards, accolades, and recognition this

BEST PLACE TO WORK

past year, including:

Indiana Chamber of Commerce

ACCOLADES

BEST BANK honors

Post-Tribune

BEST PLACE TO WORK Northwest Indiana Business Quarterly

celebrate 1-219-756-BANK • 1-888-CENTIER • www.centier.com

Member FDIC

For Voting Us

Best Downtown

Best PLACE TO LIVE

2009, 2010, 2011

2010, 2011

an award winning city all around!

Mayor David Uran

“Building A Stronger Community From Within.” www.crownpoint.in.gov

VOTED

BEST BY YOU! Kitchen/Bath Remodeling Doors & Windows Replacement Flooring Store Home Improvement Store

THANK YOU FOR MAKING US #1 9900 191st Street, Mokena IL, 60448 8900 Wicker Ave. St. John IN, 46373 708.479.7007 219.365.8585 www.schillings.com HARDWARE D IV I S I O N

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

commercia DIVISION

nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

BEAUTY & WELLNESS Best Cosmetic

Table of Contents

6 Surgery Center

1. Medical Specialists 2. Laser Cosmetic & Aesthetic Center 3. Dr. Platis Best Hair Salon (NWI)

7 1. Vanis Salon and Spa 2. Color Room Salon & Spa 3. Texture Pointe Salon Best Health

6 Food Store

1. Baums 2. At Nature¹s Door Best Hearing

6 Aid Center

1. Professional Hearing 2. St. John Hearing 3. Clear Ear Best Spa

8 1. Vanis Salon and Spa 2. State of Mind 3. Spa Blue at Blue Chip Casino

Best Vision Center 1. Vision Point 2. Vision Works 3. Levin Eye Care Center

EDUCATION & INSTRUCTION Best Adult

10 Educational

Institution 1. Purdue Calumet 2. Indiana University Northwest 3. Valparaiso University Best College/

11 University

1. Purdue Calumet 2. Valparaiso University 3. Purdue University (West Lafayette)

Best Dance School 10 1. Donna Brum School of Dance 2. Elite Dance 3. Arthur Murray Editor’s Choice Best Gymnastics 10 Program Patti’s Gymnastics

ENTERTAINMENT Best Bowling

12 Alley

1. Stardust 2. Inman’s Recreation Center 3. Set Em Up

Best Casino

18 1. Horseshoe

2. Four Winds 3. Blue Chip Best Casino Dining

19 1. Jack Binion’s

Horseshoe 2. The Buffet-Four Winds 3. Copper Rock Steakhouse-Four Winds Best Casino Poker

19 1. Horseshoe

2. Four Winds 3. Blue Chip Best Casino Slots

19 1. Horseshoe

2. Four Winds 3. Blue Chip Best Casino

19 Table Games 1. Horseshoe 2. Four Winds 3. Blue Chip

Best Country Club

12 1. White Hawk

Country Club 2. Briar Ridge Country Club 3. The Course at Aberdeen Best Festival

13 (Non-local)

1. Taste of Chicago 2. Frankfort Fall Festival 3. Venetian Festival STJ

Best Festival (NWI) 12 1. Pierogi Fest 2. Popcorn Festival 3. Lake County Fair Best Golf Course

13 1. White Hawk

Country Club 2. Briar Ridge Country Club 3. Lost Marsh Best Hotel (Mi)

14 1. Four Winds Hotel

2. JW Marriott 3. Candlewood Suites STJ

Best Hotel (NWI)

14 1. Radisson Merrillville 2. Blue Chip 3. Hilton Garden Inn

Best Live Entertain-

14 ment Venue

1. T he Venue at Horseshoe 2. Center for Visual & Performing Arts 3. Lake County Fairgrounds

Best Live Theater 14 1. Theatre at the Center 2. Memorial Opera House 3. Indiana Ballet Best Marina

15 1. Hammond

2. Michigan City Marina 3. St. Joseph Yacht Club

Best Movie Theater

Best Coffee

16 1. AMC

22 1. Dunkin Donuts

Best Museum 16 1. Museum of Science and Industry 2. Field Museum 3. Chicago Children’s Museum

22 Restaurant

2. Portage 16 IMAX 3. Cinemark of Valparaiso

Best Place

16 for a Child’s

Birthday Party 1. Funflatables 2. Deep River Waterpark 3. Bellaboo Best Public Garden,

17 Outdoor Exhibition 1. Shrine of Christ’s Passion 2. Gardens on the Prairie

Editor’s Choice Best Beach

16 in Michigan Oval Beach

Editor’s Choice Best Public 17 Art Display Keys to the City

FOOD & DRINK

Best Asian Food 20 1. China Buffet 2. Panda Express 3. Asparagus Best Bakery

20 1. Strack & Van Til/

Almira’s Bakery & Pastry Shop 2. Butterfingers Bakery 3. Strongbow Inn Best Banquet

20 Facility

1. Avalon 2. Strongbow Inn 3. White Hawk Country Club Best Bar/Lounge

21 1. Northwoods

2. Houlihan’s 3. TJ Maloney’s Best Caterer

20 1. Strack & Van Til

2. Butterfingers 3. Comforts Catering Best Chef (MI)

21 1. John Paul Verhage, 2. Timothy Sizer, 3. Ryan Thornburg

Best Chef (NWI) 22 1. Nicole Bissonette 2. Randy Berg 3. Jack Lencioni

2. Starbucks 3. McDonalds

Best Family

1. Round the Clock 2. Kelsey’s Steakhouse 3. Tiebels Best Fine Dining

22 Restaurant (MI) 1. Bistro on the Boulevard 2. Timothy’s

Best Fine Dining

23 Restaurant (NWI)

1. The Lighthouse 2. Tiebels 3. Ciao Bella Ristorante Best Hamburgers

23 1. Schoops

2. Culver’s 3. Miner Dunn Best Hotdog

24 1. BOZ Hot Dogs

2. Maxwell Street Hotdogs 3. Corky’s Dogg House

Best Ice Cream Shop 24 1. Coldstone Creamery 2. Culver’s 3. What’s the Scoop Best Italian Food

24 1. Lucrezia’s

2. Giovannis 3. Ciao Bella Ristorante Best Mexican Food

25 1. El Taco Real

2. El Salto’s 3. La Quesadilla Best Microbrewery

25 1. Three Floyds 2. New Holland 3. Founder’s

Best Pizza 26 1. Aurelio’s 2. Beggar’s Pizza 3. Gelsosomo’s Best Place 26 for a Sandwich 1. Jimmy Johns 2. Subway 3. Butterfingers Best Place for

26 Breakfast

Best Place for

27 Chicken Wings

1. Buffalo Wild Wings 2. Hooters 3. Wings Etc Best Place

27 for Lunch

1. Texas Corral 2. Houlihan’s 3. Giovanni’s Best Seafood

28 1. The Lighthouse

2. Tiebels 3. Four Winds Casino Best Sports

28 Bar & Grill

1. Buddy & Pals 2. Texas Corral 3. Amarillo Roadhouse Best Steakhouse

28 1. Kelsey’s

2. The Lighthouse 3. Gino’s Best Winery

29 1. Tabor Hill

2. Round Barn 3. St. Julian

Editor’s Choice Best New 29 Classic Martini Gino’s

HEALTHCARE

Best Cardiology

30 Care

1. Community Cardiology Center 2. The Heart Institute at Franciscan St. Anthony Health 3. Chest Pain Centers at Franciscan St. Margaret Health Best Chiropractor

30 1. Dr. John Kostidis

2. Healthsource 3. Hodges Chiropractic Best Dentist

30 1. Northwest

Oral Surgeons 2. Dr. Jim Arnold/ Smiles by Arnold & Associates 3. Schererville Family Best Health

1. Round the Clock 2. The Scrambled Diner 3. Susie’s Cafe & Catering

32 & Fitness Club

Best Place

34 1. Community Hospital

26 for Brunch

1. Strongbow Inn 2. Center for Visual & Performing Arts 3. White Hawk Country Club

1. Omni 41 2. Fitness Pointe 3. Cardinal Fitness Best Hospital

2. Franciscan St. Anthony Health 3. Franciscan St. Margaret Health

Best Orthopedic

32 1. Lakeshore Bone & Joint 2. Orthopedic Specialists 3. St. Anthony SMI Sports Medicine Institute

Best Pain Management

33 1. Midwest Interventional Spine Specialist 2. Community Spine & Neurosurgery Institute 3. Spine Care Specialists Best Pediatric Care

32 1. Kids First Pediatrics

2. Franciscan St. Anthony Health 3. Community Hospital Best Physical Therapy

34 1. APT Plus

2. LakeShore Bone and Joint 3. Orthopedic Specialists

Best Urgent Care 34 1. Community Hospital Outpatient Centre 2. Franciscan ExpressCare 3. Hammond Clinic Best Women’s Health

36 1. Community Hospital’s Women’s Diagnostic Center 2. Franciscan St. Anthony Health 3. Franciscan St. Margaret Health

Editor’s Choice Best Addiction 36 Counselors Confidential Care

LIVING

Best Downtown (Il)

40 1. Chicago 2. Lansing 3. Crete

Best Downtown (Mi)

40 1. New Buffalo

2. Saugatuck/Douglas 3. St. Joseph

Best Downtown (NWI) 40 1. Crown Point 2. Valparaiso 3. Schererville

Best Place to

42 Volunteer

1. Humane Society 2. Franciscan St. Margaret Health 3. Meals on Wheels Best Place to Work

41 1. Citizens Financial

2. Franciscan Alliance Hospitals 3. Centier Bank Best Place to Worship

42 1. First United

Methodist Church 2. St. John the Evangelist 3. Suncrest

Best Retirement/ 43 Assisted Living Community 1. Hartsfield Village 2. Franciscan Home 3. Wittenberg Editor’s Choice Best Dunes Specialist 43 Dawn Bernhardt Editor’s Choice Best Person to Buy 41 a Second Home from in Michigan Louis Price

SERVICES

Best Bank 44 1. Centier 2. Citizens Financial 3. Chase

Best Car Repair Shop X 1. Levin 2. Crown Point Auto Repair 3. Mr. Tire Best Car Wash 44 1. Soft Touch 2. Drive & Shine 3. Easy Clean Best Childcare

44 Center

1. Growing Kids Learning Centers 2. Wonder Years 3. Child Enrichment Center Best Customer

Best Place to Live (Il) 41 1. Chicago 2. Beecher 3. Lansing

45 Service

Best Place to Live (Mi) 42 1. New Buffalo 2. South Haven 3. St. Joseph Best Place to Live (NWI)

Best Door & Window 45 Replacement 1. Schilling 2. Schererville Glass & Mirrors 3. The Door Store

2. Valparaiso 3. Schererville

46 1. D and K Electric Limited

40 1. Crown Point

1. Strack & Van Til 2. Citizens Financial 3. Centier

Best Electrician 2. Cedar Electric 3. Teck Electric

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Best Heating/Cooling

46 1. Meyers Heating

2. Popa Heating & Cooling 3. Lansing Heating

Best Home Builder 46 1. Olthof Homes 2. McFarland Homes 3. Accent Homes Best Insurance

46 Agent

1. Connie Bernard 2. Andrea Harbin 3. Jennifer Gholson Best Kitchen/Bath

47 Remodelling

1. Schilling 2. Maruszczak Appliance 3. M&M Home Remodeling

Best Landscaper 47 1. Allen Landscape 2. Martin Landscaping 3. Small’s Garden Center Best Oil Change 48 1. Duke of Oil 1. Oil Express 2. Oil ‘n Go 3. Drive & Shine Best Plumber 49 1. St. John Plumbing Service 2. M eyers Heating /Cooling 3. TLC Plumbing

SHOPPING

Best Appliance Store 2. Nason’s Appliance 3. Hometown Appliance & Electronics

Best Roofer

2. Rogers Roofing Best Veterinarian

50 1. Munster Animal Hosp.

2. Community Pet Hosp. 3. Barden’s Animal Clinic Editor’s Choice Best Window Expert

50 Champion WIndows Editor’s Choice Best Meats and 48 Food Delivered Griffith Meats

Editor’s Choice Best Hair Stylist 51 in Harbor Country Heath & Co

Best Liquor Store

Best Carpet/ 53 Flooring Store 1. Von Tobel 2. Schilling 3. Cover Rite

60 1. Nick’s Liquors

2. Wise Guys Liquors 3. St. John Wine Sellers Best Mattress Store

60 1. Bedding Experts

2. Mattress World 3. Indiana Furniture Best Men’s

60 Clothing Store

1. Kohl’s 2. JC Penney 3. David’s Mens Clothing

Best Consignment

53 Store

Best New Car Dealer

60 1. Schepel Auto Group

1. Once Upon a Child 2. Hidden Treasures 3. It’s Just Serendipity

2. Smith Auto Group 3. Christenson Chevrolet

Best Electronics

Best Pet Shop

54 1. Best Buy

62 1. PETCO

2. Hometown Appliance & Electronics 3. Walmart

2. Pet Supplies Plus 3. Alsip Nursery Best Place to Buy

Best Florist

54 1. Darvin Furniture

51 1. M&M Roofing

2. Highland Jewelers 3. Sickinger’s Jewelers

Best Bridal/Formal 52 Wear Shop 1. David’s Bridal 2. Dunhill Tuxedos 3. Elegance Wedding and Evening Wear

1. Donna Hofmann 2. Chris Lozanovski 3. Lisa Thompson 3. Bill McCabe

Best Residential 50 Real Estate Co. 1. McColly 2. Coldwell Banker 3. Century 21 Executive

Best Jeweler

58 1. Albert’s Jewelers

Best Antique Shop 52 1. It’s Just Serendipity 2. Tish’s Antiques 3. Vintage Rose

Best Real Estate

Best Real Estate 48 Agent (Mi) 1. Sharon Halliburton 2. Louis Price 3. Jay DeBruyn

1. Bass Pro Shop 2. Cabela’s 3. Blythe’s Sport Shop

52 1. Maruszczak

54 1. Brumm’s Bloomin’ Barn

49 Agent (NWI)

Best Hunting/Fishing/

58 Outdoor Store

62 Meat & Poultry

1. Welch’s Stop and Shop 2. Strack & Van Til 3. Doug Komo’s

2. Cedar Lake Florist 3. Bryan’s Florist

Best Furniture Store

Best Place to

62 Buy Produce

2. DeYoung 3. Indiana Furniture

1. Strack & Van Til 2. Meijer 3. Scheeringa Farms s

Best Garden/Nursery

55 Store (Mi)

Best Place

1. Sawyer Garden Center 2. Groundworkes, Inc.

62 to Buy Wine

Best Garden/Nursery 55 Store (NWI) 1. Alsip Nursery 2. Allen Landscape Center 3. Scheeringa Farms and Greenhouses

1. Wise Guys Liquors 2. Nick’s Liquors 3. St. John Wine & Spirits Best Shoe Store

64 1. Shoe Carnival

2. Famous Footwear 3. Barney’s Hub Bootery

Best Gift Boutique

Best Tire Store

56 1. Maria’s Hallmark

64 1. Levin Tire

2. Brumm’s Bloomin’ Barn 3. Louise’s Hallmark

2. Discount Tire 3. Lake Tire

Grocery Store 56 Best 1. Strack & Van Til

Best Used Car Dealer

64 1. Schepel Auto Group

2. Meijer 3. Aldi

2. Smith Auto Group 3. Christenson Chevrolet

Best Home Decor Store

56 1. Bed Bath & Beyond

2. Old Time Pottery 3. JC Penney Home Store Best Home

58 Improvement Store 1. Menards 2. Home Depot 3. Schilling

Best Women’s Clothing Store 1. Amy Laurie’s Boutique 2. Judee’s 2. Chic Unlimited Editor’s Choice

54 Best Game Room/ Pool Store American Sales

nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Letter from the Publisher 4

Who doesn’t want to be the best at what they do? And honestly, who doesn’t want to be acknowledged for it? A few months ago, The Times of NWI was judged to be the best organization in Lee Enterprises for 2010, and we are very proud of that fact. And, of course, we are determined to repeat that once again. So I can certainly understand the dedication of last year’s Best Of winners to winning again. And, guess what? Almost half of our first place winners this year are back on top again! Even with the number of votes hitting another record of 111,000. The Best of edition once again is distributed in the print version to an audience of more than 100,000 with 100,000 more readers consulting with the e-edition throughout the year. The logic for coverage that includes the entire Lake Michigan area (and three states) is we know that our readers will go out of their way, whether to southwestern Michigan or downtown Chicago, just to get the best. Menard’s, Strack & Van Til and Community Hospital were once again top vote getters but we saw newcomers for first place too. Franciscan St. Margaret Health and Medical Specialists broke through in particular categories this year and Horseshoe took top honors in many of the casino categories, as well as, staying in first place for best venue. Though once again, Blue Chip claimed top honors for their world class spa and Four Winds maintained the title of Best Hotel in Michigan. I’m sure you have noticed that we make an effort to get this special edition out to you before Memorial Day and the beginning of summer for a reason: the Best of is all about having fun. But the annual Best of also is designed to serve as a reminder that it’s time for a check-up whether it’s a foot care specialist, place to go for an oil change (we have a tie this year) or laser eye surgery. We hope that you will continue to check in with us throughout the year at nwi. com/bestof, to comment on your favorites, or let us know about the latest new potential best. Your participation as marketing partners and voters helps us strengthen the ballot for next year. Thank you winners, for doing what you do so well, and thanks again to our readers for voting for your favorites. Now it’s time for you to go out and have the best summer ever!

Bill Masterson Jr. Publisher

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Beauty & Wellness

[ best ] HEALTH FOOD STORE Baum’s Natural Foods 407 West 81st Ave Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.3140 1864 45th Ave Munster, Ind. 219.922.1050 9486 Wicker Ave St. John, Ind. 219.558.8780 baumsnaturalfoods.com

aum’s Natural Foods focuses on wellness, offering a wide array of products and services. All three stores specialize

[ best ] HEARING AID CENTER Professional Hearing Management

2601 Beech St, Valparaiso, Ind. 219.364.6135 prohearingmgmt.com

in prescription-quality, certified natural supplements and vitamins, and hard-tofind foods. Services include ion cleanse foot bath, infrared sauna, acupuncture, massage and foot reflexology, Suddenly Slimmer body wrap, nutritional blood analysis and more. The staff attends several training sessions each year to offer customers the most upto-date product knowledge. “From day one, thirty years ago,” says Norma Baum, “our number-one priority continues to be to educate our customers about their health concerns and to provide a more natural alternative to better health.” SECOND PLACE At Nature’s Door 5830 U.S. 6 Portage, Ind. 219.762.7025 at-natures-door.com

Aimee and Carol of Baum’s Natural Foods.

[ best ]

COSMETIC SURGERY CENTER Medical Specialists

757 - 45th Street, Suite 202, Munster, Ind., 219.924.5850 919 Main St, Dyer, Ind., 219.934.2495 10200 Wicker Ave, St. John, Ind., 219.365.0970 medspecindiana.com Medical Specialists offers comprehensive, state-of-theart skin care with board-certified dermatologists providing less invasive procedures in a medically supervised environment. “As an organization we always look for ways to help our patients,” says Dr. Alexander Stemer, providing since 1978 high-quality health care to infants to the elderly, those needing wellness checks, and those suffering from complex health issues. A wide array of physicians and services offer diagnostic expertise and equipment, disease management, and preventive medicine. Issues addressed include allergy and asthma, dermatology and skin cancer, endocrinology, infectious disease, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, pediatrics, physical therapy, podiatry, and more.

rofessional Hearing Management has provided quality hearing health care for 25-plus years. Owner Nancy Dickey, Au.D., has extensive experience diagnosing and treating hearing and balance disorders and continues her education annually. She and her staff bring compassionate, personal care to every patient. Audigy Certified and ranked in the top 3 to 5 percent of private practice audiology clinics nationwide, the practice offers the latest in hearing technology and includes a 100 percent guarantee on services and products. “Our patients know they will be greeted with a smile and treated with the highest level of care,” says office manager Maxine Bartosik.

SECOND PLACE

Laser Cosmetic & Aesthetic Centers of America 13 W US Hwy 30 Schererville, Ind. 219.865.4777

Cosmedic Skin & Body Clinic Dr. James Platis 210 East 86th Place Merrillville, Ind. 219.795.1255 58 East Walton Chicago, Ill. 312.377.3333 cosmedicclinic.com

SECOND PLACE

St. John Hearing Aid Center 8219 Wicker Ave St. John, Ind. 219.558.0454

THIRD PLACE

Clear Ear Hearing Aid Center 827 W Glen Park Ave Griffith, Ind. 219.934.9747

Exceptional Doctors

Healthy Skin

[ best ]

HAIR SALON (NWI) Vanis

photo [oppostie page, left] by TONY V. MARTIN; [top] PROVIDED; [this page] TONY V. MARTIN

107 N Main St, Suite A Crown Point, Ind. 219.663.5200 221 U.S. 41, Suite J Schererville, Ind. 219.322.5600 1620 Country Club Road, Suite A Valparaiso, Ind. 219.465.6414 vanis.net

or 26 years, Vanis Salon & Day Spa has brought the latest trends in fashion to Northwest Indiana thanks to its dedicated,

well-educated staff. “We were the first salon in Northwest Indiana to start an apprenticeship program. All the stylists we hire go through a very extensive 14-month program,” says Chris Valavanis, owner of the three Vanis salons in Schererville, Valparaiso and Crown Point. “They really care about the client. Service is number one.” Each salon was designed with a focus on natural forms, wood and stainless steel and is set into a palette of soft, subtle hues that are complementary and calming.

SECOND PLACE

Color Room Salon & Spa

14785 W 101st Ave, Suite 1E Dyer, Ind. 219.365.0173 colorroomsalon.com

THIRD PLACE

Texture Pointe Salon 2062 45th St. Highland, Ind. 219.924.4656

Our Specialties Include: • Dermatological Surgery • General Dermatology • Cosmetic Dermatology

To schedule an appointment, call 219-934-2495. www.medspecindiana.com

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Beauty & Wellness [ best ]

VISION CENTER Vision Point visionpointnwi.com

[ best ]

SPA Vanis

107 N Main St, Suite A Crown Point, Ind. 219.663.5200 221 U.S. 41, Suite J Schererville, Ind. 219.322.5600 1620 Country Club Rd Suite A Valparaiso, Ind. 219.465.6414 vanis.net

SECOND PLACE

State of Mind

Crownhurst Centre, 111 West 94th Ave Crown Point, Ind.,219.663.7317 stateofmindsalonspa.com

THIRD PLACE

Spa Blue at Blue Chip

777 Blue Chip Dr., Michigan City, IN 219.879.7711 or 888.879.7711 bluechipcasino.com

may 22, 2011 | best of the region

pa treatments aren’t just for special occasions any more, says Chris Valavanis, owner of Vanis Salon & Spa, named the Best Spa in the 2011 “Best of the Region” contest. “Today, people are maintaining their skin. The skin is an organ and needs to be nourished and cared for,” says Valavanis, who has grown Vanis to three convenient locations in Schererville, Valparaiso and historic downtown Crown Point over the past 26 years. Women and men seek the skin care offered by Vanis Spa. Custom facials, aromatherapy oil wraps, massages, manicures and pedicures are just some of the luxurious pampering provided by Vanis Spa’s highly-skilled and caring staff.

ocally owned and operated, VisionPoint is an optical retail chain of independent optometrists in five locations: Valparaiso, Portage, Schererville, LaPorte and Crown Point. VisionPoint eyewear and sunwear collections are changed frequently allowing the customer to have more choices. Brands exclusive to VisionPoint are Lindbergs, Flairs, and Lamattas. Experienced opticians lead the customers through the entire process from purchasing the eyewear to teaching the customer how SECOND PLACE to wear and care for Vision Works visionworkseyewear.com their new eyeglasses or contacts. THIRD PLACE VisionPoint offers Levin Eye Care two full service labs, Center which can provide 1334 119th St glasses the same or Whiting, Ind. next day for all five 219.659.3050 levineyecare.com locations.

Thank You!

for Voting Us the Best eye Care Center for the last

Three Years! ‘Like Us’ on Facebook!

CrowN poiNt Valparaiso Jewel-osco plaza

2106 N. Calumet

portage Us Hwy 6

sCHererVille Us 30 & Hwy 41

laporte

pine lake Center

219.226.9571 219.464.8200 219.763.1538 219.322.5205 219.325.0404

38 Years of service 2010 Best of the Region Eye Doctor

National Optometrist of the Year Award Distinguished Practitioner National Academy of Practice Board Certified in Vision Development & Vision Therapy

Thank you for voting Dr Levin, Private Practitioner, one of the

Best in vision care Pediatric & Family Vision Care • Vision Therapy for Learning Related Vision Problems Stroke/Brain Injury • Vision Perceptual Testing • Testing & Treatment for Crossed, Lazy Eyes • Contact Lenses Large Eyewear Fashion Selection Management of Eye Diseases • LASIK Referral 1334 119th Street • Whiting, in • 219-659-3050 • WWW.levineyecare.com A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Steven A. Levin, O.D., F.C.O.V.D.

Evan Hapner O.D.

nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Purdue University Calumet 2200 169th St Hammond, Ind. 219.989.2400 calumet.purdue.edu

A EDITOR’S CHOICE [ best ]

CHILDREN’S GYMNASTICS PROGRAM

Patti’s All-American Gymnastics 1530 Joliet St, Dyer, Ind. 219.865.2274, pattisallamerican.com

[ best ] ADULT EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION

he only business in this category, Patti’s All-American Gymnastics has won numerous times. Owner Patti Komara provides structured opportunities for children of all ages to tumble, trampoline, swim, dance and keep moving, in classes tailored to various age ranges from 12 months to 18 years old. Themed activities are also provided. Fitness-based lessons have a 100-percent money back guarantee of satisfaction within 30 days, and a free personalized tour is offered. “It’s a privilege these 42 years to provide gymnastics, dance and swim in the area—a joy for me and my staff,” says Komara.

full-service university designed for a diverse student population, Purdue University Calumet provides educational opportunities for those who seek certificates, associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees. And this year, the Hammond-based PUC garnered two top awards in the “Best of...” contest - “Best College/University” and “Best Adult Educational Institution.” “Many of our adult students are here taking classes part-time and juggling family and full-time jobs. Without compromising the academic integrity of classes, our professors help students who make these sacrifices to earn degrees,” says Wes Lukoshus, assistant vice chancellor for advancement. “Our faculty’s doors are always open.” That spirit of “we’re in this together” provides an atmosphere where students of all ages can succeed, he says. In addition, the new requirements that all bachelordegree students complete two courses in experiential learning have resulted in 100 new course or revised courses, Lukoshus says.

SECOND PLACE

Indiana University Northwest 3400 Broadway Gary, Ind. 219.980.6500 iun.edu

THIRD PLACE

Valparaiso University 1700 Chapel Dr Valparaiso, Ind. 219.464.5000 valpo.edu

[ best ] DANCE SCHOOL Donna Brum School of Dance

2334 Cline Ave, Schererville, Ind., 219.865.9850 donnabrumdancers.com Donna Brum and her teachers at Donna Brum Dancers have created a family that extends through generations of teachers and students: most of her incredibly dynamic staff were trained by her as little girls, went on to study dance in college, and came back to teach alongside her. The list of dance disciplines Brum and her partner Tracy Borowy offer is remarkable: jazz, tap, ballet, hiphop, poms/cheer, modern/lyrical, tumbling, combo classes, and leaps & turns. The school also offers adult classes, as well as special needs classes. But the company’s more competitive wing gives students the chance to be a part of their Danz Elite Performance and Competition Teams, which have performed on a Carnival cruise line, in Disney, and at the halftime shows of an NCAA Orange Bowl and Sugar Bowl, to name a few.

TIE for SECOND PLACE

Elite Dance

425 U.S. Route 30, Suite 100 Dyer, Ind., 219.864.8700 edcdance.com

Arthur Murray 1205 W. Lincoln Hwy Merrillville, Ind. 219.738.9041 arthurmurray.com

photo [this page top] by TONY V. MARTIN; [opposite page] courtesy of Purdue University Calumet

Education

Patti's All-American Gymnastics instructor Diane Spevack helps a student learn a new move.

Experience

the next step. A Purdue Calumet education is more than a world-respected Purdue degree. It’s all about experiences—personally and professionally enriching, hands-on, real world, life-changing, priceless experiences. 80+ degree programs… experiential learning… apartment-style campus living

[ best ]

College/University Purdue University Calumet

For more information voted about summer and fall classes…

by the

219/989-2213 or 800/HI-PURDUE, ext. 2213 people of www.purduecal.edu northwest indiana An equal access, equal opportunity, affirmative action employer that is committed to a diverse workplace.

2200 169th St, Hammond, Ind. 219.989.2400, calumet.purdue.edu

Purdue University Calumet offers a comprehensive program providing for a wide-ranging student population seeking educational opportunities for professional certificates, bachelor’s and master’s degrees. “Many of our students take classes part time while juggling family and full-time jobs. Without compromising course academic integrity, our professors help students who make these sacrifices to earn degrees,” says Wes Lukoshus, assistant vice chancellor for advancement. SECOND PLACE New requirements that all Valparaiso bachelor-degree students complete University two courses in experiential learning 1700 Chapel Dr have resulted in 120 new or revised Valparaiso, Ind. courses. 219.464.5000 valpo.edu “Experiential learning integrates traditional learning and applied THIRD PLACE learning in a real world, job-related Purdue setting,” says Wes Lukoshus, University assistant vice chancellor for West Lafayette advancement. Therefore the 191 University St West Lafayette, Ind. program must follow principals 765.496.5180 set by the National Society for purdue.edu Experiential Learning.

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

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nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

FESTIVAL (NWI)

Stardust Bowl

Stardust Bowl II 3925 East Lincoln Hwy (U.S. 30) Merrillville, Ind. 219.942.0432 Stardust Bowl III 1330 Sheffield Ave Dyer, Ind. 219.322.3666 bowlstardust.com

or more than 45 years, Stardust Bowl has been a recreational destination for generations of bowlers. Started by Ray Barton in 1964, the Stardust Bowl facilities in Dyer and Merrillville are owned today by Ray’s grandchildren, siblings Bruce and Barbara Barton. “We work very hard to do what’s right for the customer,” says Todd Bredar, vice president of Stardust Bowl. “We have many repeat customers and they tell other people about their positive experiences here.” In addition to serving families and bowling leagues, Stardust Bowl also offers facilities for corporate events, birthday parties, fundraisers and school outings.

SECOND PLACE

Inman’s Bowling & Recreation Center 3201 Evans Ave Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.3100 inmansvalpo.com

THIRD PLACE

Set’em Up 135 N. Broad St Griffith, Ind. 219.924.3181

[ best ]

Pierogi Fest

119th St and Indianapolis Blvd, Whiting, Ind. 219.659.0292, pierogifest.net

The Whiting Pierogi Fest, with almost 200,000 attendees every year, is a way for the city to celebrate its heritage and have a little fun! Because of the large Eastern European population in Whiting, the community remembers its ethnic roots, via the pierogi as a symbol, and spends three days singing, dancing, telling stories, and of course eating, all while being surrounded by people dressed in babushkas and as life-size version of these delicious dumplings. Mr. Pierogi, a cultural icon, is always present, ensuring that the tale of how the pierogi fest originated, but the highlight of the festival is the Friday night Polka Parade. The old and the young alike will enjoy the merriment. This year’s 16th annual Pierogi Fest will take place from June 23 to 25.

SECOND PLACE

Lake County Fair

Lake County Fairgrounds, Crown Point, Ind., 219.663.3617 lake-county-fair.com

[ best ] COUNTRY CLUB White Hawk Country Club

1001 White Hawk Dr. Crown Point, Ind. 219.661.2323 whitehawkcountryclub.com Surrounded by beautiful homes and a 36-hole semi-private championship golf course, White Hawk Country Club offers elegant banquet facilities, delicious dining at its restaurants and a golf pro shop head by Steve Smead, director of golf. This year, White Hawk took top honors in

THIRD PLACE

Popcorn Festival

Valparaiso, Ind. 219.464.8332 valparaisoevents.com/popcorn festival

two categories in “The Best of 2010” contest - “Best Country Club” and “Best Golf Course.” These honors reflect the quality people have come to expect from White Hawk, Smead says. “We strive to provide products and services that put us above the rest,” he says. “We like to think of ourselves as a leader in the field and it’s nice to see that we are recognized for that.” Designed by Tim and Dick Nugent, the White Hawk Golf Course features bent grass and is one of the highest-rated in the state. The Country Club boasts a banquet room that seats 50 to 230 and is perfect for weddings, meetings and other special events. The dining room and the bar & grill are open to the public and

offer various cuisine and drinks. Wednesday evenings there’s a pasta buffet while on Friday, guests can enjoy all-you-can-eat seafood with crab legs. For golfers’ convenience, the dining room opens early.

SECOND PLACE

Briar Ridge Country Club 123 Country Club Dr. Schererville, Ind. 219.322.3660 briarridgecc.com

THIRD PLACE

The Course at Aberdeen

245 Tower Road Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.5050 golfataberdeen.com

photo [this page top] by KYLE TELECHAN

Entertainment

[ best ] BOWLING ALLEY

[ best ] FESTIVAL (NON-LOCAL) Taste of Chicago

Grant Park 337 E Randolph St Chicago, Ill. tasteofchicago.us. Dates: June 24 - July 3, 2011 Since its modest start on the Fourth of July in 1980, the famed ten-day Taste of Chicago festival at Grant Park has grown to host over three million people each year, making it the world’s largest food festival. At the festival, over 70 restaurants and food vendors (both big and small) showcase more than 300 delicious dishes. In an effort to cut costs on this year’s event and re-center the festival’s focus on celebrating food, the City of Chicago has turned the

event operations over to Chicago Park District. Although past festivals have included big-name musical acts, the 2011 Taste of Chicago will incorporate four of the city’s annual music festivals (Viva Chicago, the Chicago Country Music Festival, Celtic Fest Chicago, and the Chicago Gospel Music Festival) that used to stand alone. Admission to the Taste of Chicago is free.

Thanks for Voting us Best Country Club!

Best Golf Course

Best Brunch

Best Banquets

SECOND PLACE

Frankfort Fall Festival

Historic Downtown Frankfort Frankfort, Ill. frankfortfallfest.com Dates: September 3 - 5, 2011

WHITE HAWK COUNTRY CLUB

THIRD PLACE

Venetian Festival STJ 401 Lake Blvd, St. Joseph, Mich. 269.983.7917 venetian.org Dates: July 14 - 17, 2011

[ best ]

Golf Course

Tee Times: 219-661-2323 l Events: 219-661-2322 1001 White Hawk Drive l Crown Point, IN 46307 www.whitehawkcountryclub.com

Public Welcome

White Hawk Country Club

1001 White Hawk Dr, Crown Point, Ind., 219.661.2323 whitehawkcountryclub.com

White Hawk Country Club is northwest Indiana’s only 36-hole championship golf course and country club. The courses are available for public play every day and everyone from business professionals to families can find a membership option. As a championship-level course, “We’re the proud host of the South Shore Championship and the LPGA Futures Tour,” says Director of Golf Steve Smead. “That great event will run from June 27 to July 2.” Anyone hungry after a round of golf can find a big-city-worthy steakhouse at the country club. Gift cards are also available.

SECOND PLACE

Briar Ridge Country Club 123 Country Club Dr Schererville, Ind. 219.322.3660 briarridgecc.com

THIRD PLACE

Lost Marsh Golf Course 1001 129th St Hammond, Ind. 219.932.4046 lostmarshgolf.com

We do something very unique in our kitchen. We cook. From appetizers and salads to entrées and desserts, it’s all prepared here daily. With love.

Thanks for voting us Best Bar! 1550 US Highway 41 •Schererville, IN 219-864-0077 • www.houlihans.com

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Entertainment

SECOND PLACE

Blue Chip Casino and Hotel

[ best ] HOTEL (MI) Four Winds Casino Hotel

11111 Wilson Rd New Buffalo, Mich. 1.866.494.6371 fourwindscasino.com Just off Exit I-94 at Michigan exit 1, Four Winds Casino Resort in New Buffalo, Mich., is in a countryside setting 75 miles from Chicago. Hotel guests can enjoy 135,000 square feet of gaming space, a large selection of table games, and poker room. Several bars and four restaurants include one with a wine list topping 400. Hotel accommodations include shops, celebrity suites, pillow-top mattresses and flat-screen TVs. “The high level of service, with our gaming, entertainment, and gourmet restaurants, makes Four Winds Casino Resort one of the top tourist destinations in the Midwest,” says General Manager Mark Harkness. “We encourage everyone to come out and experience the difference.”

may 22, 2011 | best of the region

SECOND PLACE

JW Marriott

235 Louis St NW Grand Rapids, Mich. 616.242.1500 marriottt.com

THIRD PLACE

Candlewood Suites 2567 W. Marquettewood Rd. Stevensville, Mich. 269.428.4400 candlewoodsuites.com

[ best ] HOTEL (NWI) Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza

800 East Lincoln Hwy Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.6311 radisson.com/merrillville-hotelin-46410/merrillv When it comes to fun, the Radisson Hotel at Star says “It’s All Here!” Guests here enjoy friendly service and top-notch amenities including a refreshing indoor pool. Whether you want a snack or full-course meal, restaurants

777 Blue Chip Dr Michigan City, Ind. 219.879.7711 or 888.879.7711 bluechipcasino.com

THIRD PLACE

Hilton Garden Inn 501 Gateway Blvd Chesterton, Ind. 219.983.9500 hiltongardeninn.hilton.com

[ best ] LIVE ENTERTAINMENT VENUE The Venue at the Horseshoe

777 Casino Center Drive Hammond, Ind., 219.473.6060 horseshoehammond.com The Venue at Horseshoe Casino in Hammond is Northwest Indiana’s premier live entertainment theater, seating more than 3,300. The lobby, which is three levels, has LED-pixeled walls, and a 3,500-square foot VIP area hosts six suites, three rows of seats, and a salon with plush couches and

plasma televisions. Guests can enjoy the show in a luxurious yet comfortable setting. Some summer highlights at the Venue include Gabriel Iglesias, LL Kool J, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, Patti LaBelle and others. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster, and the Venue box office is open on Sunday and Monday.

SECOND PLACE

Center for Visual & Performing Arts

1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Ind. 219.836.1930 cvpa.org

THIRD PLACE

Lake County Fairgrounds

889 South Court St. Crown Point, Ind. 219.663.3617 crownpoint.net/fairgrounds.htm

[ best ] LIVE THEATER Theatre at the Center

1040 Ridge Rd, Munster, Ind. 219.836.3255 (box office) theatreatthecenter.com

he Theatre at the Center is the only professional theater in Northwest Indiana, hiring Chicago Professional Equity actors to perform in Broadway-style productions. The subscription Main Stage Series, for example, thrills audiences five times a year.

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within the hotel offer a variety of on-site choices. For sheer entertainment, the Radisson is home to the area’s top entertainment venue, the Star Plaza Theatre. Guests can now also take in a round or two of golf because the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza is partnering with River Pointe Country Club in Hobart with its 27-hole course and fine dining catered by the Radisson

Located in the Center for Visual and Performing Arts in Munster, the Theatre also offers a variety of packages and special events, including dinnertheater and wine-tasting/theater occasions.

SECOND PLACE

Memorial Opera House

104 Indiana Ave, Valparaiso, Ind., 219.548.9137 mohlive.com

THIRD PLACE

Indiana Ballet Theatre

8888 Louisiana Merrillville, Ind., 219.755.4444 202 5th Ave NE, DeMotte, Ind. 219.987.6601 ibtnw.org

[ best ]

MARINA Hammond Marina

701 Casino Center Dr, Hammond, Ind. 219.659.7678, hammondmarina.com

Billed as “Gateway to the Gulf”, the Hammond Marina provides access to Lake Michigan for boaters and a host of amenities for those who sail and those who enjoy the sites from land. For the boater, the Hammond Marina competitive slip rates and a Marine Store. Events at the Marina include special parties, fishing contests and boating festivities. One of the beautiful amenities is the Clipper Room, which offers a breathtaking view of the lake and a newly-remodeled facility for special events or meetings. The Hammond Marina was also named a Clean Marina by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

SECOND PLACE

THIRD PLACE

Washington Park 200 Heisman Harbor Rd Michigan City, Ind. 219.872.1712 mcmarina.org

1 Lighthouse Ln St. Joseph, Mich. 269.983.6393 sjryc.com

Michigan City Marina

St. Joseph Yacht Club

GREAT LOCATION! on Lake Michigan just 12 Miles from Chicago

SAVE from Several Hundred Dollars to Several Thousand Dollars Compared to Chicago’s Harbor Fees!

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www.HAMMoNDMAriNA.CoM • 219-659-7678 A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

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BEST MARINA nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Entertainment BEACH ALONG LAKE MICHIGAN Oval Beach

698 Water St, Saugatuck, Mich. saugatuck.com/beaches.asp

Oval Beach in Saugatuck, Mich., gets raves for its pristine beauty and lots of amenities. Conde Nast Traveler rates it one of the 25 best shorelines in the world; MTV rates it as on of the nation’s top five beaches; and National Geographic Traveler rates it one of the top two freshwater beaches in the country. The place is blessed with a winning combination of sugar-sand beach, towering dunes that beg to be explored, plentiful wave action, eyecatching vistas, and seclusion. You can take the tree-lined route there - it’s at the end of Oval Beach Road one mile west of the Saugatuck ferry landing - find lots of parking space and an easy path to the shore. Or, go all nostalgic on North America’s only hand-pulled chain ferry boat, which brings you from Saugatuck to a 282-step climb up Mt. Baldhead for a panoramic view and a dune grasscovered descent to the beach. There are lifeguards, swing sets, and a full service concession stand. You can bring your own food and cook at one of the many barbecue grills on a wood deck south of the bluff, there are picnic tables, and thankfully, the restrooms are kept clean. It’s a remarkably peaceful site. If you venture too far north you may stray onto private property where clothing is definitely optional. However, the beach now offers a conservation area with hiking paths. On-the-water fun: Boats and sail boats to charter, canoes and kayaks to rent.

may 22, 2011 | best of the region

[ best ] MOVIE THEATER AMC

amctheatres.com AMC Theatres have created a commanding presence on the northwest Indiana theatre scene in the past few years. With an average of 15 screens per theatre, the company has the highest screen per theatre count among the major U.S. and Canadian competitors. The theatres are also staying competitive by offering several different price options, including a $4.50 matinee. And to maintain its distinctive flair, the company has extended its screenings by developing relationships with independent film companies and multicultural film organizations.

SECOND PLACE

Portage 16 IMAX

6550 U.S. Highway 6 Portage, Ind., 219.764.7469 gqti.com/theaters

THIRD PLACE

Cinemark of Valparaiso

700 Porter’s Vale Blvd Valparaiso, Ind. 219.464.0260 cinemark.com/theatre

[ best ] MUSEUM Museum of Science & Industry

THIRD PLACE

Chicago Children’s Museum 700 East Grand Ave Chicago, Ill. 312.527.1000 chicagochildrensmuseum.org

5700 South Lake Shore Dr Chicago, Ill. 773.684.1414 msichicago.org

hicago’s Museum of Science & Industry is one of the world’s largest science museums, with more than 35,000 artifacts in the nearly 14-acres of creativity and innovation. The museum’s vision is to inspire children whose dreams lie in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and medicine to pursue their goals by providing a place to explore and nurture their intellectual curiosity. Permanent exhibits at the museum, such as U-505 Submarine, the only German U-boat in the United States, are accompanied by many changing temporary exhibits, like the current “Science Storms,” which encompasses more than 50 experiments and takes up 26,000 square feet on two floors. Also happening now are the “Smart Home: Green & Wired” and “YOU! The Experience” exhibits. In addition, visitors can also enjoy a range of other events, live science experiences, and performances in the Omnimax Theater.

SECOND PLACE

The Field Museum 1400 South Lake Shore Dr Chicago, Ill. 312.922.9410 fieldmuseum.org

[ best ] Place for A Child’s Birthday Party FunFlatables 101 Joliet St Dyer, Ind. 219.322.5333

Westfield-Southlake Mall Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.7777 2982 E. 181st. Pl 219.696.6666 Hebron/Lowell, Ind. funflatables.org Funflatable’s three locations offer children’s entertainment with indoor, year-round, inflatable ‘soft’ playgrounds and cater birthday parties, field trips and open play. Dyer offers private party space with three themed areas. Westfield-Southlake Mall offers one large inflatable arena

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EDITOR’S CHOicE [ best ]

with unlimited open play every day and non-private parties. Hebron offers a semi-private party facility with one large inflatable arena, a Totland and Café, and private Celebration Rooms. “Watching children exert their endless energy with a smile on their face is amazing. It’s a wonderful feeling knowing that FunFlatables can bring out the ‘true kid’ in all ages,” says owner Debbie Dorsey.

SECOND PLACE

Deep River Water Park

4 1/2 miles east of I-65 on US 30 Merrillville, Ind. 219.947.7850 deepriverwaterpark.com

THIRD PLACE

time of reflection and/or prayer and view statues, including the new Ascension and Garden of Gethsemane. The Visitor’s Center has been expanded to double its former size, with a store offering a wide variety of religious and inspirational products. Local schools and churches use the shrine as a teaching tool, and national and international tour organizations visit. Chicago journalist Bill Kurtis narrates interactive listening stations.

Bellaboo’s Play and Discovery Center 2800 Colorado St Lake Station, Ind. 219.963.2070 mybellaboos.com

[ best ] Public Garden The Shrine of Christ’s Passion

10630 Wicker Ave (US 41) Saint John, Ind. 219.365.6010 shrineofchristspassion.org

EDITOR’S CHOICE [ best ]

PUBLIC ART DISPLAY Keys to the City Valparaiso, Indiana

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

he Shrine of Christ’s Passion is a half-mile trail and Visitor’s Center in St. John, Ind. People can walk the trail for a quiet

SECOND PLACE

Gardens on the Prairie

3242 West 169th Ave Lowell, Ind. 219.690.0911 gardensontheprairie.com

rom “Chopsticks” to Chopin, piano music is in the air on the streets of Valparaiso, Indiana. The Keys to the City is a quirky project spearheaded by Steve Ingram, who was intrigued by a televised program about pianos put on the streets of London for anyone to come along and play. Ingram talked with his Kiwanis member son Aaron, and the club pitched the idea to the city. The concept hit the right note. “We presented the idea to the city and our festival organization person, Tina St. Aubin. It took them about 30 seconds to OK the project,” says Ingram. Kiwanis Club agreed to purchase the pianos. “This project is a gift from the Kiwanis to the city and the great people of our city who every year give us $40,000 to $50,000 to give back to this community,” says Ingram. Last year five pianos on the sidewalks proved to be irresistible. Public reaction was “nothing but positive - it exceeded our expectations,” says Ingram. Toddlers’ hands reached for the keys, teens played “Chopsticks,” and some talented folks offered up mini concerts. Anyone who wanted to tickle the ivories needed no invitation, from amateurs to professionals. It took plenty of help to set the stage. One piano was donated and four others were purchased, from Gratz Piano. Valuation Services provided additional funds and BoyConn did the promotional printing. Two men with a truck moved the pianos to their various downtown sites. Another fellow tuned the pianos regularly. Expect even more such moments this summer, when there will be eight pianos around the city. “The weather was not kind to one of the pianos,” says Ingram, but aside from Mother Nature, “People became protective of the pianos.” Keyed up by the enthusiastic response, Kiwanis is buying four more pianos for this year’s display of eight pianos; the tentative opening date is July 8; check the Web site above for updates. The pianos will be placed around the square, in the new downtown park, and at the Memorial Opera House.

nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Entertainment [ best ]

CASINO Horseshoe Casino 777 Casino Center Dr Hammond, Ind. 866.711.SHOE (7463) horseshoehammond.com

Lavish Las Vegas-style glitz, glamour, gaming and great food - Horseshoe Casino Hammond has it all, and much more. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, this 350,000-square foot facility welcomed more than six million visitors last year. That popularity is well reflected in Horseshoe garnering first place in an amazing five categories in the 2010 “Best Of...” contest. These honors include Best Casino, Best Casino Slots, Best Casino Table Games, Best Poker and Best Casino Dining. “We are honored by the recognition we have received. We always strive to provide an outstanding, entertaining experience for our guests,” says Dan Nita, Senior Vice President & General Manager Horseshoe Casino. “We have 2,300 employees who thrive on delivering great

may 22, 2011 | best of the region

customer service.” Horseshoe Casino is a “great brand and strong market,” Nita says. “We also benefit from being from one of the largest entertainment companies, Harrah’s Entertainment Inc.” In fact, that connection with Harrah’s allows patrons to earn comps that they can use at other Harrah facilities, including Las Vegas, New Orleans and even London, England. A $ 500 million expansion completed in 2008 more than doubled the size of the main floor casino. Crystal chandeliers by the dozens - each more than 8 feet in diameter — sparkle down from the casino’s 21-foot-high ceiling. Tones of copper, chocolate and trademark “Horseshoe gold” blend with intricate moldings, ornate sconces and hand-plastered walls. The expansion also added a 2,500-seat entertainment facility, The Venue. Billed as the place “where entertainment knows no bounds,” The Venue is a versatile multipurpose entertainment

facility that provides space for top-name performers, theater productions, sporting events and banquets. The four-level facility features seats that can be retracted for concerts where standing room is traditional. The Venue also has six VIP boxes that feature couches, plasma televisions and full food and beverage service. With more than 3,000 slots, Horseshoe Casino provides gaming opportunities for those who like to play the same slots during each visit and those who want to experience the newest offerings, Nita says. “We have slots you can play for one penny up to $1,000 and everywhere in between. There is truly something for everyone,” he says. One of Horseshoe’s exclusives are the as the Binionaire progressives. Horseshoe Casino Hammond has one of the biggest table games

businesses in the U.S. with more than 120 tables with great variety, Nita says. “We also have the biggest limits and attract business from all over the United States and around the world.” The High-Limit Table Room, for example, provides the perfect setting where gamblers can play three-card poker, mini-baccarat and blackjack. Le Cheng, an Asian-themed gambling area, whose name means City of Happiness, features tables for baccarat, poker, blackjack and pai gow tiles. Inspired by the romance of the Chinese Silk Road, this area hasexquisite detail and appropriate feng shui. The Asian Gaming Area welcomes players

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into their own resplendent niche of the casino. Spacious and elegant, it features an oversized display of a water cascade on the beautiful etched art glass work within a classic rose wood-stained cabinet. Crafted in China, all the wood in the Asian Gaming and Foo Noodle Bar are made with rich rose wood color. Although all casinos feature the same table games, what sets Horseshoe apart, he says, are the quality of the employees who provide the finest service to patrons. “We make sure to recruit and hire the best,” Nita says. “We receive hundreds of customer surveys. We give bonuses for employees getting more A’s. The last four quarters, we’ve been successful at this.” Poker reigns supreme at Horseshoe Casino Hammond because the casino is part of the World Series of Poker. “Having that brand allows local players to qualify for the competition. It’s a nice hook,” Nita says. “Honoring Horseshoe’s storied past as the original poker joint, our casino also features the single largest poker room in the Midwest. With 34 tournament-caliber tables and a high-stakes area called Benny’s Back Room, this is poker the way it’s supposed to be.” Benny’s Back Room is named for Benny Binion, the founder of the original Horseshoe in downtown Las Vegas. And when it’s time to dine, make reservations at The Best Casino Dining spot in the region - Jack Binion’s Steakhouse. “Jack Binion’s is the second of the pillars of our brand,” Nita says. This legendary steak house has been a Chicago favorite with its exquisite service and attention to detail. “It’s tough in Chicago to be the top. There are lots of great places to dine. We’re really proud of our reputation for providing an upscale experience rivaling the downtown’s finest steakhouses,” he says.

he reason for the enduring popularity of Jack Binion’s Steak House is quite simple, Nita says - magnificent cuts and house specialties served with impeccable presentation. Each piece is hand selected and trimmed to the exacting standards of certified

artisans. From Wagyu beef to our Nebraska Dry-Aged Beef, there just is no finer steak available anywhere. “But our commitment to the absolute finest ingredients doesn’t end there. All of our seafood is completely sustainable and we use only organic vegetables grown locally and harvested at the peak of perfection,” Nita says. And whatever you do, leave room for an abundant array of decadent desserts created by the restaurant’s classically trained pastry chef. From irresistible pound cake sprinkled with fresh berries to ultra rich cheesecake and the famous key lime pie, this is a celebration for the senses you won’t soon forget. Jack Binion’s Steak House received the prestigious Wine Spectator Award of Excellence 13 years running and was voted Best Casino Fine Dining by Midwest Gaming and Travel readers. Other features at Horseshoe Casino Hammond include: • Vintage 51, a wine bar that offers wine by the glass, unique cocktails and micro-brew beers. It’s just steps from the casino floor. • Push, a feature bar right in the center of the action, where patrons are always surrounded by 360 degrees of excitement. • Village Square Buffet for a culinary experience • JB’s Gourmet Sandwiches for everything from breakfast to sandwiches • Benny’s Pub and Eatery a 54-seat pub where guests can watch the game on many plasma screen TVs. Horseshoe is easily accessible for residents of Indiana and Illinois as well as out-of-town visitors at 777 Casino Center Dr., next to the sparkling Hammond Marina. Free shuttle bus and limo service is available from Chicago and the south suburbs.

[ best ] CASINO SLOTS

[ best ] CASINO POKER

Horseshoe Casino

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Four Winds

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Blue Chip

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[ best ] CASINO TABLE GAMES

[ best ] CASINO DINING

Horseshoe Casino

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Four Winds

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Blue Chip

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Horseshoe Casino

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The Buffet, Four Winds

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Copper Rock Steakhouse, Four Winds

fourwindscasino.com

SECOND PLACE

Four Winds Casino Resort 11111 Wilson Rd., New Buffalo, MI (866) 4WINDS1 / (866) 494-6371 fourwindscasino.com

THIRD PLACE

Blue Chip

777 Blue Chip Dr., Michigan City, IN (219) 879-7711 / (888) 879-7711 bluechipcasino.com

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nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

[ best ] ASIAN FOOD

Food

China Buffet

1640 Indianapolis Blvd/ U.S. 41 & U.S. 30 Schererville, Ind. 219.865.2888 An international dining experience awaits you at China Buffet in Schererville. In addition to Chinese and Japanese cuisine, this popular restaurant offers up American, Italian and Mexican favorites...everything from chicken nuggets to Crab Rangoon. China Buffet, named the number one restaurant to find “The Best Asian Food”, also features a sushi bar, a salad bar and a barbeque bar. Daily soup choices and desserts including soft serve ice cream, cake and cookies round out the menu -

SECOND PLACE

goods that are sold in some Strack & Van Til stores. Every week, for example, Almira’s bakers create 9,000 cakes including crumb cakes, pound cakes, cream cakes and wedding cakes. In addition, other Strack & VanTil stores feature an array of delicious baked treats sold under the Strack’s name, including bread, coffeecakes, Danish pantries and donuts.

[ best ] BANQUET FACILITY

SECOND PLACE

Butterfingers Bakery 2552 45th St Highland, Ind. 219.924.6464

921 Ridge Rd, Ste D Munster, Ind. 219.836.4202

THIRD PLACE

Strongbow Inn

2405 E US 30 Valparaiso, Ind. 219.464.8643 strongbowinn.com/bakery

Avalon Manor Banquet Center 3550 U.S. Highway 30 Merrillville, Ind. 219.945.0888 theavalonmanor.com

rom the elegant foyer to the more than 16,500 square feet of meeting space, Avalon Manor Banquet Center creates the perfect atmosphere for any event, whether it’s a gathering of 20 or 1,200. In addition to the area’s largest free-standing facility, Avalon’s picturesque gazebo overlooking a peaceful pond and fountain also

provides a park-like setting for outdoor events. “Thanks to all our dedicated customers and the community of Northwest Indiana for choosing us as their favorite banquet facility,” says General Manager Peter Kaiafas. Let Avalon Manor make your special event a wonderful memory.

Panda Express pandaexpress.com

THIRD PLACE

Asparagus

7876 Broadway Merrillville, Ind. 219.794.0000 asparagusrestaurant.com

[ best ]

CATERER Strack and Van Til

strackandvantil.com

[ best ] BAKERY Almira’s Bakery & Pastry Shop/ Strack & VanTil strackandvantil.com almirasbakery.net

tarted as a family business on Hammond’s Sibley Street, Almira’s is now part of the Strack & Van Til chain. Housed inside the grocery store on 169th Street, Almira’s continues to turn out an amazing assortment of baked

track and Van Til Supermarkets is a company worthy of its Best Caterer title. The business is capable of handling any size function and even the smallest special requests from its customers. With 16 locations spread around Northwest Indiana and two in Illinois. Check out their website for weekly ads, coupons and a great recipe page that lets you plan meals, make your grocery list, find new recipes and even watch cooking videos.

SECOND PLACE

Butterfingers 2552 45th St Highland, Ind. 219.924.6464

921D Ridge Rd Munster, Ind. 219.836.4202

THIRD PLACE

Comforts Catering

9585 N. Industrial Dr. #D St. John, Ind. 219.365.6506 3400 N. Broadway Gary, Ind. 219.980.7755

Second Place

THIRD PLACE

2405 Morthland Drive Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.5121 strongbowinn.com

800 E 81st Ave Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.6311 starplaza.com/dining/diningtjmaloneys

Strongbow Inn

Third Place

TJ Maloney’s

White Hawk Country Club

1001 White Hawk Dr. Crown Point, Ind. 219.661.2323 whitehawkcountryclub.com

[ best ] BAR/LOUNGE JohnPaul VerHage

Northwoods

photo [opposite page, top] by TONY V. MARTIN; [this page] courtesy of TABOR HILL RESTAURANT & WINERY

8101 U.S. Route 4 St. John, Ind. 219.558.8130 northwoodsdining.com

orthwoods’ giant log cabin space and the unique nightlife experience that stems from it is what sets this bar apart from more traditional establishments. The bar regularly provides its patrons with awesome drink deals, live entertainment from bands and DJs, and festive theme nights that make for easy excuses to stay out late. Sad you missed April 30th’s “Halfway to Halloween” party? Don’t sweat it - The Breakfast Club: the Ultimate 80’s Cover Band plays on May 27th. The restaurant portion of Northwoods is worth checking out, too. Daily and monthly specials compliment a huge menu of comfort food that will make you want to move back home.

SECOND PLACE

Houlihan’s

1550 U.S. Route 41 Schererville, Ind. 219.864.0077 4240 N Main St Mishawaka, Ind. houlihans.com

[ best ] CHEF (MI) JohnPaul VerHage Tabor Hill 185 Mount Tabor Rd, Buchanan, Mich. 269.422.1165 taborhill.com

Originally from Lawton, Mich., JohnPaul VerHage graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in New York and eventually came back to his home-state to be a chef. In the five and a half years that VerHage has been executive chef at Tabor Hill, the restaurant’s patrons have experienced his inventive cooking style that marries simple concepts and ingredients with new, creative cooking methods. In the summertime, he uses as much local produce as possible. But he says they also try to bring in a lot of exotic products, too.

Thank you for your patronage over the years!

Thank you for voting us

Let us cater your special event...at the restaurant, at your home, or office. • • • • • •

Showers Birthday Parties School Events Club Meetings Graduations Retirement Parties

SECOND PLACE

Ryan Thornburg Bistro on the Boulevard 521 Lake Blvd. St. Joseph, Mich. 269.983.3882 theboulevardinn.com

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

603 Ridge Road, MunsteR, in | 219-836-6220 nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Food [ best ]

FAMILY RESTAURANT Round the Clock

909 W Lincoln Hwy, Schererville, Ind., 219.322.4940 9010 Indianapolis Blvd, Highland, Ind. 219.923.4546, roundtheclock.com

With dishes like Lake Perch, Old-fashioned Meat Loaf, Chicken Breast Dijon and Teriyaki Beef Stir-fry, it’s no surprise that eating at Round the Clock SECOND PLACE Kelsey’s feels a bit like eating Steakhouse in your own mother’s 2300 E Morthland Dr, kitchen. Open since Valparaiso, Ind. 1963, Round the 219.465.4022 Clock has now won 5630 US 6 this title 14 years in Portage, Ind a row. Every family 219.762.2242 needs something 7311 Mallard Ln different, and Round Schererville, Ind. the Clock welcomes 219.769.0000 the challenge. In kelseyssteakhouse.com two locations, the THIRD PLACE restaurant has daily Teibel’s Family specials and takes Restaurant carryout orders, 1775 US Highway 41 catering event orders Schererville, Ind. 219.865.2000 and birthdays. teibels.com

Timothy Sizer Timothy’s and Tim’s Too

Timothy’s 16220 Lake Shore Rd Union Pier, Mich. 269.469.0900 timothysrestaurant.com Tim’s Too 511 Pleasant St St. Joseph, Mich. 269.985.0094 timstoo.com

the Spanish-influenced braised baby octopus or smoked duck breast. “I try to keep on top of what’s going on everywhere - San Francisco, New York, L.A. and I’ve traveled quite a bit, so I’m inspired by all of those things.”

who are trying to compete in international markets. Check out their inventive website, which lets you tally the nutrition facts of each menu item down to what type of sweetener, flavor, size, blend, and dairy you choose.

SECOND PLACE

Randy Berg Ciao Bella

1514 U.S. 41, Schererville, Ind. 219.322.6800. ciaobellaonline.com

THIRD PLACE

[ best ] CHEF (NWI) Nicole Bissonnette Bistro 157 157 Lincolnway Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.0992 bistro157.net

Chef Nicole Bissonnette has been ambitious to say the least in the past few years. Her two successful restaurants (Bistro 157 in Valparaiso and Bartlett’s Gourmet Grill in Beverly Shores, run by her husband Chef Gary Sanders) and catering business Venue have consistently delivered inspired, mouthwatering dishes that are always presented in clever, stimulating ways. Perhaps due to Bissonnette’s five years of training in France and her appetite for travel, international influences play a significant role in her restaurants; she just launched the brand new spring menu at Bistro 157, where you’ll find dishes like

Jack Lencioni Villa Cesare 900 Eagle Ridge Dr Schererville, Ind. 219.322.3011 villacesare.com

[ best ] COFFEE

Starbucks starbucks.com

THIRD PLACE

McDonalds mcdonalds.com

[ best ] FINE DINING RESTAURANT (MI) Bistro on the Boulevard

dunkindonuts.com

521 Lake Blvd, St. Joseph, Mich 269.983.3882 bistroontheboulevard.com

e know Dunkin Donuts makes really good coffee. According to its website, the company sells more than 30 cups of coffee each second on an average day. But this corporate giant has also kept up with industry-wide human rights initiatives by making all of its espresso beans Fair Trade Certified. This means that every espresso, cappuccino, and latte you buy at Dunkin Donuts helps support coffee bean farmers in developing countries

Bistro on the Boulevard offers spectacular Lake Michigan views and al fresco dining on the Bistro deck. Chef Ryan Thornburg provides regional American cuisine specializing in local seasonal produce. The menu is offers more than the usual fare, from Tuna Tartare appetizer to Grilled Strauss Rack of Lamb, to Wednesday Suchi Lunches, all with carefully selected accompaniments. “Our goal is to be the best dining destination in Southwest Michigan, and to create a lasting, memorable experience,” says Thornburg. “We provide service and hospitality so that

Dunkin Donuts

photo [this page far left] by TONY V. MARTIN; [bottom] PROVIDED

THIRD PLACE

Schoop’s

schoophamburgers.com

SECOND PLACE

Culver’s culvers.com

THIRD PLACE

Miner Dunn

8940 Indianapolis Blvd Highland, Ind., 219.923.3311

our guests have a unique feeling of importance and comfort.”

SECOND PLACE

Timothy’s Restaurant 16220 Lakeshore Rd Union Pier, Mich. 269.469.0900 timothysrestaurant.com

[ best ] FINE DINING RESTAURANT (NWI) The Lighthouse

7501 Constitution Ave Cedar Lake, Ind. 219.374.9283 cedarlakelighthouse.com

Their omelets? Great. Their chili? Very tasty. Their burgers? Just plain unstoppable. Whether you order the classic Schoop’s Mickey, the Bacon Double Cheeseburger or the Triple Hamburger (yes, three Schoop’s patties), Schoop’s hamburgers have long been the finest thing on their menu. And with this year’s award, we hope nothing in that department changes anytime soon. Asking for the Schoop’s “Everything” on your burger means you’ll get mustard, catsup, relish and onion. Pickles, lettuce, tomato, mayo and extra cheese are available too. All 19 Schoop’s locations are familyowned by the Sharp Family, headed by Dave Sharp.

urrounded by the charming woods and water of Cedar Lake, The Lighthouse Restaurant offers its guests a perfectly quaint dining experience with an incredible mix of American cuisine and picturesque views. Steaks are the restaurant’s signatures dish, but patrons will be more than satisfied with the pasta and fresh seafood offerings, including sea bass, salmon, yellow lake perch, and weekly market specials. Also on the menu are fresh salads, homemade soups, burgers and sandwiches. The Lighthouse is also perfect for events: the first floor restaurant and bar is accompanied by a banquet space on the second floor that can accommodate up to 200 guests.

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Butterfingers Highland, IN | Brumm’s Plaza 2552 45th Avenue | 219.924.6464 Munster, IN | Market Square 921 D Ridge Road | 219.836.4202

FREE Chicago Dog with Any Purchase Offer expires 7/4/11. Not valid with any other offers.

“

PHONE AHEAD & WE’LL HAVE YOUR ORDER READY! Summer HourS Are BAck - open 11Am - 7pm DAily

“

[ best ] HAMBURGER

Sandwiches ✦ Breads ✦ Cakes Cookies ✦ Small Desserts ✦ Salads Sweet Trays ✦ Party Trays Holiday Menu ✦ Celebration Cakes

Extensive Wine List Catering Available...semi private room for up to 20 Guests and up to 200 as a preferred caterer at Centennial park in Munster

1514 U.S. 41, Schererville, IN | 219.322.6800 M-Th 11am-10pm | F-Sat 11am-11pm | Sun 11am-10pm

nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Food 1775 US 41 Schererville, Ind. 219.865.2000 teibels.com

[ best ] ICE CREAM SHOP

THIRD PLACE

Cold Stone Creamery

Tiebel’s

Ciao Bella Ristorante

coldstonecreamery.com Ice cream cones, shakes, cakes and smoothies- standard fare for any ice cream place. But Cold Stone Creamery’s special method

1514 U.S. 41 Schererville, Ind. 219.322.6800 ciaobellaonline.com

[ best ]

HOTDOG BOZ Hot Dogs

6214 Indianapolis Blvd, Hammond, Ind. 219.932.3647 1205 Sheffield Ave, Dyer, Ind. 219.322.6564 303 Broad St, Griffith, Ind. 219.924.4452 bozhotdogs.com

With choices like the BOZ Kraut Dog, the BOZ Nacho Dog, and the BOZ Chili Cheese, BOZ Hot Dogs has officially entered royal hotdog status - it beat out the ballparks. Their menu is concise: the dogs, some sides, a few desserts, a few sandwiches and drinks. But don’t let this fool you; the size and sheer power of their dogs is more than enough to satisfy. The most popular pick? Manager Nancy Kennedy recommends trying the classic BOZ Hot Dog with any combination of their extra condiments. Load the dog up with your choice of catsup, mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers.

SECOND PLACE

Maxwell Street Hotdogs 1500 N. Main St, Crown Point, Ind. 219.663.8430, facebook.com/pages/ Maxwell-Street-Hot-Dogs/

may 22, 2011 | best of the region

of preparing each order is what makes this ice cream shop superior to the rest. Each customer’s choice of ice cream is blended by hand on a frozen granite stone to give it a unique - and quite delicious - texture. To top it off, pick from dozens of great mixins to personalize whatever flavor you got. Cold Stone Creamery ice cream is made fresh every day in each of their stores, and the company offers healthier desert options, too - check out the Healthy Indulgences part of the menu. And of course we love the part when the workers have to sing songs when we tip them!

SECOND PLACE

Culver’s culvers.com

THIRD PLACE

What’s the Scoop 204 S. Main St Crown Point, Ind. 219.663.4252

[ best ] ITALIAN FOOD Lucrezia’s

428 S. Calumet Ave Chesterton, Ind. 219.926.5829 302 S. Main St, Crown Point, Ind. 219.661.5829 lucreziacafe.com

Lucrezia’s in Chesterton and Crown Point offers Northern Italian cuisine, each dish made to order. Over 13 years “We continue to stay focused on quality of food and on superb service,” says owner Nada Karas, noting the waitstaff is extensively trained, loyal and “truly a family.” Two historic 1800s houses with upgraded interiors offer a relaxed and eclectic atmosphere, with al fresco dining available in the garden. One of the few Indiana restaurants to be featured on PBS-TV’s “Check Please,” Lucrezia’s offers a sophisticated wine list. “Our dishes are consistently wonderful and innovative, and at reasonable prices,” says Karas.

SECOND PLACE

Giovanni’s

603 Ridge Rd Munster, Ind. 219.836.6220 giosmunster.com

THIRD PLACE

Ciao Bella Ristorante

1514 U.S. 41 Schererville, Ind. 219.322.6800 ciaobellaonline.com

THIRD PLACE

Corky’s Dogg House

12421 Wicker Ave, Cedar Lake, Ind. 219.374.9332, facebook.com/pages/ Corkys-Dog-House/

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

photo [this page far left] by TONY V. MARTIN; [bottom] PROVIDED

SECOND PLACE

[ best ] MEXICAN FOOD El Taco Real

935 E Hoffman St Hammond, Ind. 219.932.8333 eltacorealrestaurant.com

l Taco Real owner Raymundo Garcia is true to his word when he says, “If you’re coming into my restaurant, it’s like you’re coming into my

home.” The idea to open their own restaurant started after Garcia’s father told his mother that her food was good enough to be served in one. Garcia’s parents opened El Taco Real in 1974 and has been serving up delicious food ever since. The menu is overflowing with tasty appetizers, huge dinner entrées, daily specials, a la carte items and unique deserts - all at very modest prices. Order anything with the pork in it - it’s what they’re known for, and they have their own butcher on staff that does all of the cutting to get the leanest pieces of meat. Garcia attributes part of El Taco Real’s success to its concerns for offering healthier food compared to many other Mexican restaurants. “Mexican food is very easy to make cheaply - it ends up greasy and you end up getting heart burn,” says Garcia. “A lot of

thought goes into how we make our food here.” Garcia explains a big misconception about Mexican food is that the spicier it is, the more authentic it is. “But it’s not all about being hot,” says Garcia. “I want to make food that’s more exciting and flavorful than just hot.” El Taco Real’s patrons certainly seem to agree.

SECOND PLACE

El Salto

805 Ridge Rd Munster, Ind. 219.836.0600

THIRD PLACE

La Quesadilla Mexican Grill

10033 Wicker Ave, #13 St. John, Ind., 219.365.7357

[ best ] MICROBREWERY Three Floyds

757 Indian Boundary Rd Chesterton, Ind. 219.395.9890

9750 Indiana Pkwy, Munster, Ind., 219.922.3565, 3floyds.com

3530 N Calumet Ave Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.0100 elsaltorestaurant.com

What started as two young brothers brewing beer in their garage has officially turned outof-control successful. Brothers

Over the last 37 years it has been an honor to watch some of our patrons arrive alone and sometimes bring a “new” friend. We have watched as you developed those “new” relationships into intimate ones. It has been our privilege to see you marry and bring your infant children for their first public meals. Now we have been given the honor of feeding your children’s children and even your children’s children’s children. You are our family and this is your home.

Thank you for 37 wonderful years. The Garcia Family 935 Hoffman St. (between Calumet & Columbia) Hammond, IN 219.932.8333 Hours: Tues. thru Thurs 11 to 10 Friday and Saturday 11 to 11 | Sunday 11 to 9 Closed Monday

eltacorealrestaurant.com

EL TACO REAL is Totally non-smoking Fridays and Saturdays after 4:00p.m. and Sunday all day A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Food PIZZA Aurelio’s

aureliospizza.com

A handful of Aurelio’s 43 outposts are right here in Northwest Indiana: Head to Griffith, Hammond, LaPorte, Lowell, Munster, Portage and Schererville for its consistently award-winning pizza. The first Aurelio’s opened its doors in 1959 - and generations of customers continue to return for its thin-crust, decadent pizza. Out of town for a business trip? This crave-worthy pizza can even be baked, frozen and shipped to you on dry ice in less than 72 hours so you can get a taste of home wherever you may be.

SECOND PLACE

Beggar’s Pizza

beggarspizza.com

THIRD PLACE

Gelsosomo’s gelpizza.com

[ best ]

SECOND PLACE

THIRD PLACE

E 81st Ave, Dyer, Ind. 219.865.3950 Like us on Facebook

1050 Southpoint Cir, #A, Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.5500 Like us on Facebook

New Holland Brewing

66 East 8th St, Holland, Mich. 616.355.6422 newhollandbrew.com

THIRD PLACE

Founders Brewing Co.

235 Grandville Ave, SW Grand Rapids, Mich. foundersbrewing.com

[ best ] PLACE FOR A SANDWICH Jimmy John’s jimmyjohns.com

When you want a fresh sandwich now - as in

may 22, 2011 | best of the region

PLACE FOR BREAKFAST Round the Clock roundtheclock.com

Round the Clock Restaurant began serving up quality homemade breakfasts that are available 24 hours a day in 1963. The great food and friendly, homey atmosphere of this restaurant chain has again been recognized as “The Best Place for Breakfast.” In addition to the familiar Highland and Schererville Round the Clock restaurants, the Christos family also serves customers at Johnnies Round the Clock Family Restaurant in Merrillville; RTC restaurants in Valparaiso, Chesterton and LaPorte; at Christos Family Restaurants in Knox, LaPorte, Plymouth, West Lafayette and Lafayette; as Red Seven Grill in Lafayette, and Camille’s Café in Lafayette and West Lafayette.

The Scrambled Diner

Susie’s Café & Catering

right this moment - head to Jimmy John’s, where the subs are made in front of you in less than five minutes. Get everything from a tuna sub to a turkey sandwich, or go all out for a Italian Night Club, which packs salami, Italian capicola, smoked ham, provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, mayo and homemade Italian vinaigrette all onto one sandwich. Jimmy John’s also caters, and is the perfect lunch treat for the office or for a party.

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

2405 E U.S. 30 Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.5121 strongbowinn.com

Subway subway.com

Butterfingers 2552 45th Ave Highland, Ind. 219.924.6464 921 Ridge Rd Munster, Ind. 219.836.4242

[ best ] PLACE FOR BRUNCH Strongbow Inn

Strongbow’s reputation as a turkey mecca has never overshadowed its other spectacular dining options. Beside the carved turkey with all of the trimmings, the restaurant’s famed Sunday brunch features their delicious bread rolls, cold salads, assorted breakfast pastries, quaint desserts, and juices. But don’t forget the omelet station, where a chef will custom cook a fresh omelet for you with whatever ingredients you choose. And on occasion, they’ll be cutting slab bacon if you’re craving traditional breakfast meat. You might be thinking that the only thing missing is live entertainment, but it’s not;

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

photo [opposite page] by TONY V. MARTIN

[ best ]

Nick and Simon Floyd, with their father Mike Floyd, founded Three Floyds Brewing Company in 1996 with one small barrel. Now they can produce 4,800 barrels annually, and boy, is it worth it. Three Floyds’ most acclaimed beer is called Dark Lord, rated by many as one of the best in the world. Brewed with Intelligentsia Black Cat espresso, Mexican vanilla and Indian dessert sugar, it’s not for the faint of heart: 2010’s batch clocks in at 15% alcohol content and 700 calories per bottle. But you can only grab a swig of this stuff on Dark Lord Day, a daylong festival in early April. Brewery tours are $1 every Saturday at 3pm, and it’d be wise to hit up their Three Floyds brewpub right next door.

Sunday guests get to listen to live music (usually piano, sometimes full groups like the Jeff Brown Trio) while enjoying this fantastic brunch.

SECOND PLACE

Center for Visual & Performing Arts 1040 Ridge Rd, Munster, Ind. 219.836.1930 cvpa.org

THIRD PLACE

White Hawk Country Club

1001 White Hawk Dr, Crown Point, Ind., 219.661.1300 whitehawkcountryclub.com

[ best ] CHICKEN WINGS Buffalo Wild Wings buffalowildwings.com

uffalo Wild Wings captured two “Best of” titles this year - “The Best Chicken Wings” and “The Best Sports Bar & Grill.” And it’s easy to see why. This national chain was started in 1982 when two transplanted Buffalo, New York men were craving authentic chicken wings in Kent, Ohio. They couldn’t find any, so they decided to

open their own restaurant to serve up these tasty chicken wings. Today, BWW specializes in chicken wings. The traditional Buffalo, New York-style joint wings are awardwinning. The Boneless Wings are lightly breaded white meat cooked golden crisp for “first-place taste with less mess.” Both varieties are spun in your favorite BWW sauce and served with a choice of celery, Bleu cheese or ranch dressing. Those 14 sauces are legendary and range in heat from smilin’ (Salt & Vinegar) to screamin’ (Desert Heat). The extensive menu includes starters and snacks, ribs, shrimp, burgers, salads, sandwiches, wraps, flatbreads and desserts. There’s also a “Wild Child” menu for the kids. The relaxed, comfortable atmosphere of BWW’s sports bar appeals to those who like to hang out with friends, play trivia on the Buzztime® system and watch their favorite games on one of the many big-screen TVs.

SECOND PLACE

Hooter’s hooters.com

THIRD PLACE

Wings Etc.

Best r la P ce fost Best a f k Family nt Brea a Restaur

“Just Like Home”

Highland

Merrillville

(9010 Indianapolis Blvd.)

219-923-4546

(1800 W. 81st Ave., U.S.30)

219-769-1591

s k n a h T

Schererville

(909 West Lincoln Highway)

219-322-4940

for voting us

ion!

e Reg h t n i e s u akho

The Best S

Thank y o our loya u to all of l custom er for your Patronag s e!

wingsetc.com

[ best ] PLACE FOR LUNCH Texas Corral

9200 Indianapolis Blvd. Highland, Ind., 219.838.4940 312 W. 81st Ave, Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.1101 5880 U.S. 6, Portage, Ind. 219.764.7515 texascorral.net

Steak & Seafood Rarely This Well Done. VALPARAISO 2300 Morthland Drive 465-4022

Tues-Thurs 4-10 PM, Fri-Sat 4-11 PM, Sun 12-9 PM

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

PORTAGE 5630 US Hwy 6 762-2242

Tues-Thurs 4-10:00 PM, Fri-Sat 4-11:00 PM, Sun 4-9 PM

nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Food SECOND PLACE

Houlihan’s houlihans.com

THIRD PLACE

Giovanni’s

603 Ridge Road Munster, Ind. 219.836.6220 giosmunster.com

Texas Corral Grill & Saloon offers lunch menus at its Highland, Merrillville and Portage locations, where, just as at the other Northwest Indiana Texas Corrals, patrons are invited to toss the peanut shells on the floor. In the informal atmosphere the menu includes hearty sandwiches, steak burgers, and wraps. Sides include homemade soups, salads, sweet potatoes and steak fries. There are daily lunch specials and combo appetizer plates with ribs, wraps, nachos and more, with beer available to wash it down. First on the table: Warm buns with cinnamon butter. Gift cards are available.

On the menu are sea bass, salmon, yellow lake perch and weekly market specials. Steaks are also a specialty, soups are homemade, and sandwiches such as the Philly steak are prepared for boaters. Gift cards are available in any denomination.

SECOND PLACE

[ best ] SEAFOOD The Lighthouse

Teibel’s Family Restaurant

1775 U.S. 41, Schererville, Ind. 219.865.2000 teibels.com

THIRD PLACE

Four Winds Casino

7501 Constitution Ave Cedar Lake, Ind. 219.374.9283 cedarlakelighthouse.com

11111 Wilson Rd New Buffalo, Mich. 269.926.4500 fourwindscasino.com

The Lighthouse at Cedar Lake offers scenic views for diners surrounded by windows, in the first-floor seating and bar area and the second-floor banquet room with its wood dance floor. “We serve good, classic cuisine in a comfortable environment, and we do it at a reasonable price,” says owner Phil Holub. “People love the water; it’s so relaxing.”

[ best ] SPORTS BAR & GRILL

[ best ]

STEAKHOUSE Kelsey’s Steakhouse 2300 US Highway 30 Valparaiso, Ind. 219.465.4022

5630 US Highway 6 Portage, Ind. 219.762.2242 kelseyssteakhouse.com

Buddy & Pals 1206 E Summit St Crown Point, Ind. 219.662.0088

The steaks at Kelsey’s Steakhouse are aged 21 days and then cooked on a charcoal grill before they’re served. That perfection to detail - plus Kelsey’s extensive menu filled with steaks ranging from filet mignon to Monterey filet tips to a Delmonico ribeye, are what sets Kelsey’s apart from the rest. You can get much more than steak here, though. They also serve seafood, chicken and salad. “We want to keep high quality service and food at reasonable prices,” said Sara Mitchell, manager at Kelsey’s.

340 U.S. 30 Schererville, Ind. 219.865.8377 10685 Randolph St Winfield, Ind. 219.661.0088 buddyandpals.com If you’re a Bears, Bulls, Cubs, Sox, Blackhawks, or NASCAR fan, the game will always be on at Buddy & Pals. This bar has great daily drink specials and a ton of special events, from bean bag tournaments to organized pub crawls. This sports bar is all about getting together with friends to watch the game, but many patrons stick around for the excellent live entertainment - DJ Nasty Boy Noel and a variety of local bands are booked regularly.

SECOND PLACE

Texas Corral texascorral.net

THIRD PLACE

Amarillo Roadhouse 1924 U.S. Rt. 41 Schererville, Ind. 219.322.1142 amarillo-roadhouse.com

SECOND PLACE

The Lighthouse

7501 138th Pl Cedar Lake, Ind. 219.374.9283 cedarlakelighthouse.com

THIRD PLACE

Gino’s

1259 Joliet St Dyer, Ind. 219.865.3854 600 E Lincoln Hwy Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.4466

[ best ] WINERY Tabor Hill

185 Mount Tabor Rd Buchanan, Mich. 800.283.3363 and three other locations taborhill.com

ome for the wine, stay for the food and bring a bottle home with you at one of Tabor Hill’s four locations. There’s absolutely no need to go to Napa when you’ve got a vineyard practically in your backyard. Tabor Hill’s wines are produced on the shore of Lake Michigan, where the cool, temperate breezes - combined with clay soil and expert winemakers make it the perfect combo to produce fine wines. Need more details? Go on a tour of the winery along the vineyard, visit the winemaking facility and do a wine tasting.

SECOND PLACE

photo [opposite page, top] PROVIDED; [bottom] by TONY V. MARTIN

Round Barn Winery 10983 Hills Rd Baroda, Mich. 800.716.9463

439 Butler St Saugatuck, Mich. 269.857.7000 9185 Union Pier Rd Union Pier, Mich. 269.469.6885 roundbarnwinery.com

THIRD PLACE

St. Julian Winery 716 S Kalamazoo St Paw Paw, Mich. 269.657.5568 stjulian.com

EDITOR’S CHOICE

[ best ]

New Classic Martini Gino’s

600 East Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.4466 1259 W. Joliet St, Dyer, Ind. 219.865.3854 ginossteakhouse.com Not sure if Knute Rockne was referring to martinis when he said, “Drink the first. Sip the second slowly. Skip the third.” But as everyone who has ever had a martini knows, the level of intake he describes is about right. Unless, you are faced with one of those gigantic concoctions - usually desserts that for some reason are described as a martini - in which case you should just skip the whole ritual. I have come to the conclusion that the best martini is made from Chopin vodka (or other Polish potato vodka), shaken with a measure of ice slivers and served straight up with olives in it and thin shards of ice barely discernable, floating on the top of a perfectly clear liquid in a beautiful but manageable glass with a stem. The stem is important so the martini has minimum contact with the hand and does not unnecessarily warm the glass. This is precisely how a martini is done at Gino’s. And over the course of several years, I have had this particular cocktail enough to know that both locations are remarkably consistent. Since one of the key emotional lures of martinis is anticipation - just ask anyone who has been pregnant for nine months - consistency may be as important as coldness when it comes to martinis.

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

GINO’S

Voted a Best Steakhouse

From fresh seafood to juicy prime steaks, we make the home-style cuisine you love daily. All of our main courses are served with our house special marinated peppers, served as you sit down! Our locally owned and operated restaurant offers the best home-style cuisine at the best prices.

Specializing in USDA prime steaks, fresh seafood & pasta Full bar, Exceptional wine list Live Entertainment Friday & Saturday

1259 US 30 Dyer, IN | 219.865.3854 600 East 81st Merrillville, IN | 219.769.4466 ginossteakhouse.com

nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Health Care

[ best ] CHIROPRACTOR Dr. Kostidis

4004 North Campbell St Valparaiso, Ind. 219.465.1140 kostidischiropractic.com

familyrun business for over 25 years, Kostidis Chiropractic treats all types of spine and joint pain. Dr. John Kostidis, Dr. Braun and Dr. Kazonis and the rest of the staff treat conditions from mild to severe pain and try to help patients with conditions that have not responded under other types of care. Dr. Kostidis offers complete chiropractic care along with physical therapy services and non-surgical treatments for herniated discs. “Our staff and doctors are caring and treat our patients with compassion and sincerely welcomes each person in our office,” says Dr. Kostidis. “We are proud that our growth continues from numerous referrals from our patients and that we are now treating the children and grandchildren of our patients.

SECOND PLACE

Healthsource Chiropractic

11065 Broadway Crown Point Ind. 219.663.3003 healthsourcechiro.com

THIRD PLACE

Hodges Chiropractic

609 Ridge Rd Munster, Ind. 219.836.3052 hodgeschiropractic.net

From left Dr. Paul Wolf, Dr. Joseph Lovasko, Dr. Sherif Mekhail of Northwest Oral Sugeons.

[ best ] DENTIST Northwest Oral Surgeons 601 W. U.S. 30 # A Schererville, Ind. 219.322.0501

548 Ridge Rd, Suite G Munster, Ind. 219.836.0004 northwestoralsurgeons.com Northwest Oral Surgeons diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases of the gums, teeth, and jaw, practicing a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery including corrective jaw surgery and wisdom tooth removal. They treat facial injuries and TMJ disorders, and perform a full range of dental implant procedures. The CPR-certified staff is trained in assisting with IV sedation and general anesthesia within a state-of-the-art office setting. “We know that a trip to an oral surgeon can cause apprehension and our goal is to make the experience as pleasant as possible,” said the three doctors in a joint statement.

SECOND PLACE

Dr. Jim Arnold Smiles by Arnold & Associates 1830 S. 11th St Chesterton, Ind. 219.926.5445 smilesbyarnold.com

[ best ]

CARDIOLOGY CARE Community Cardiology Center 801 MacArthur Blvd, Suite 201, Munster, Ind. 219.513.0422, comhs.org

ommunity Cardiology Center - part of Community Hospital, Munster — offers a wide range of equipment and products for patients’ individual needs, such as directly visualizing arteries from the inside; diagnosing heart conditions; inserting a drugSECOND PLACE releasing stent, The Heart and more. A multidisciplinary Institute at team is “focused on Franciscan St. combining quality care Anthony Health and expertise with 301 West Homer St Michigan City, Ind. compassion for all our 219.879.8511 patients,” says staffer THIRD PLACE Marie Forszt. Nurses Chest Pain Center and technologists at Franciscan explain every aspect of St. Margaret procedures with a high Health level of personal care. Community Cardiology 5454 Hohman Ave Center complies with the Hammond, Ind. 219.932.2300 standards of performance established by The Joint 24 Joliet St. (U.S. 30) Commission, one of the Dyer, Ind. leaders in health-care 219.865.2141 accreditation. smmhc.com

Thank you to our loyal patients for voting us Best of the Region

FoR 2 STRaighT yeaRS!!

Cosmetic Dentistry, Photography, (and Family) by Dr. Arnold

In Pain? Call Our Office Kostidis Chiropractic Clinic • The most experienced clinic in NWI • Licensed Physical Therapist on staff • We treat neck and back pain, joint pain, herniated discs, sports injuries and auto accidents • Convenient hours Dr. John N. Kostidis

Most of our business comes from satisfied patients that refer their friends and family. Are you having low back or neck pain? Would you like a proven non-surgical, drug free treatment? Ask us about Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression. Dr. John N. Kostidis ~ Dr. John E. Kazonis Dr. Scott J. Braun

photos [opposite page] PROVIDED

and a wonderful, caring staff to serve all of your needs!

KOstidis ChirOPraCtiC CliniC

Pat i e n t C e n t e r e d C a r e Where Our FOCus is you www.kostidischiropractic.com 4004 N Campbell St | Valparaiso, IN | 219-465-1140 | 1-800-873-6744 M-W 7 am – 6 pm, Thursday 7 am – noon, Friday 7 am – 4:30 pm

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

$299 Zoom Whitening With this Ad (normally $699) unTIl July 31, 2011

nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Health Care Schererville Family Dentistry

1050 Caroline Ave Schererville, Ind. 219.322.3232 scherervillefamilydentistry.com

Emergencies are seen promptly and early-morning and lunchtime appointments are available. “We take time to listen to our patient’s complaints and understand the problems they are suffering from,” says Dr. Shaun Kondamuri. “We carefully craft individualized treatment plans and we do our best to sincerely help our patients. We have been using this same basic formula, plus technology and special skills, to successfully help our patients for more than 15 years.”

SECOND PLACE

Community Spine & Neurosurgery Institute

801 MacArthur Blvd, Suite 405 Munster, Ind., 219.836.5167 From left to right: Mary Malick, NP; Shaun Kondamuri, MD; Satish Dasari, MD; Vijay Gupta, MD; Rita Franzen, NP; Saveen Kondamuri, MD all of Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists

[ best ] PAIN MANAGEMENT Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists 8840 Calumet Ave # 103 Munster, Ind. 219.836.7246 333 W 89th Suite W-1 Merrillville, Ind. 219.791.1016 1700 Pointe Dr, # 101 Valparaiso, Ind. 219.836.5230 spinecaremw.com

he Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists team assesses patients’ pain to maximize pain relief, keeping in communication with primary care doctors while attending to patients’ comfort, convenience, and well-being.

may 22, 2011 | best of the region

1600 S Lake Park Ave, Suite 1102 Hobart, Ind., 21.942.6510 communityspineandbrain.com

THIRD PLACE

Spine Care Specialists Orthopaedic Specialists of Northwest Indiana 730 45th St, Munster, Ind. 219.924.3300 spinecarespecialists.com

surgical and non-invasive orthopedic care and treatment for pain management, podiatry, rheumatology and more. Board-certified surgeons and specialists treat all body joints, from neck injuries to foot problems. They have helped innovate some of the most complex surgical procedures. “Our doctors have made a commitment to a continual process of discovery to keep pace with new diagnostic and surgical technology and techniques,” says Dr. Thomas Kay.

SECOND PLACE

Orthopaedic Specialists of Northwest Indiana 730 45th Ave, Munster, Ind. 219.924.3300 osni.org

THIRD PLACE

SMI Sports Medicine Institute at Franciscan St. Anthony Health 12800 Mississippi Pkwy Crown Point, Ind. 219.662.5266 stanthonysmi.com

[ best ] ORTHOPEDIC

[ best ] PEDIATRIC CARE

Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute

Kids First Pediatrics on 30

601 Gateway Blvd Chesterton, Ind., 219.921.144 lbji.com With eight facilities and 15 doctors in Porter and Lake Counties, Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute provides comprehensive

1160 Joliet St, Ste 103 Dyer, Ind., 219.322.8534 dtmd4kids.com

[ best ] HEALTH & FITNESS CLUB Omni 41 Health & Fitness

221 U.S. 41, Suite A Schererville, Ind. 219.865.6969 omni41.com

“The staff at Omni 41 Health & Fitness Connection has made it our quest this past year to create a non-intimidating environment for deconditioned individuals who might be afraid to walk into a health club/gym. Our new Thin & Healthy’s Total Solution weight management program has set the tone and created a service to do just that,” says Marci Crozier, general manager. “On behalf of all employees of Franciscan Alliance, we are pleased to accept the Best of the Region Award for the 18th consecutive year! We also thank our current members for their choice of a healthy lifestyle.”

SECOND PLACE

Fitness Pointe 9950 Calumet Ave Munster, Ind., 219.924.5348 comhs.org

THIRD PLACE

Cardinal Fitness cardinalfitness.com

riendly and Dedicated describes the staff and doctors at Kids First. Dr. Pathak and Dr. Stroman put the child’s concerns about illnesses

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

photo [top] by TONY V. MARTIN

THIRD PLACE

Board certified orthopaedic surgeons We find great reward in bringing patients individualized care while utilizing cutting edge technology. We are dedicated to diagnosing and treating virtually any problem of the bones, joints, cartilage and ligaments to promote wellness and restore function.

• Minimally Invasive Surgery • Hip, Knee, and Ankle Specialty Care • Shoulder, Elbow, Wrist and Hand Specialty Care • Spine Care Specialists

Louis A. Gluek, III, MD

• General Orthopedic Care Including Foot, Ankle, Sports and Arthroscopic Surgery • Advanced Technical Training in Mini-Incision Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery

Nicole Einhorn, MD

• Fellowship Trained Shoulder, Elbow and Hand Surgery • Specializing in Shoulder Reconstruction • Sports Medicine and Arthroscopic Surgery

• Sports & Athletic Injuries • State-of-the-Art Open MRI • Physical and Occupational Therapy • Workers Compensation Injuries Program

Nitin Khanna, MD

• Fellowship Trained Spine Care Specialist • Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery • Complex Spinal Revision Surgery

Dwight S. Tyndall, MD

• Fellowship Trained Spine Care Specialist • Advanced Spine Techniques • Cervical and Lumbar Revision Surgery

Sunil Dedhia, MD

• Fellowship Trained in Sports Medicine, Arthroscopy and Minimally Invasive Surgery • Specializing in Advanced Reconstruction of the Shoulder and Knee

Joseph D. Hecht, MD

• General Orthopedic Care Including Foot and Ankle • Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery • Advanced Technical Training in Mini-Incision Hip and Knee Replacement

730 45th Street • Munster, IN 46321 • 219-924-3300 • www.osni.org A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Health Care

SECOND PLACE

Franciscan St. Anthony Health 301 W. Homer St Michigan City, Ind. 219.879.8511 saint.anthonymemorial.org

THIRD PLACE

Community Hospital

901 MacArthur Blvd Munster, Ind., 219.836.600 comhs.org

[ best ] HOSPITAL Community Hospital

901 MacArthur Blvd Munster, Ind., 219.836.1600 comhs.org

ommunity Hospital in Munster, recognized nationally for its highquality care, has been named one of HealthGrades®’ America’s 50 Best Hospitals, 2008-2011 based on quality outcomes. Community Hospital is also recognized as a Thomson Reuter’s Top 100 Hospital in 2010 and 2011 for achieving excellence in clinical outcomes, patient safety, patient satisfaction, financial performance and operational efficiency. Community Hospital is the only Indiana hospital to receive both of these national rankings. “These national designations represent the compassion and commitment from our healthcare

team to consistently delivering high quality care to our patients,” said Donald P. Fesko, Chief Executive Officer of Community Hospital.

SECOND PLACE

Franciscan St. Anthony Health

1100 Joliet St, Dyer, Ind. 219.864.3300

THIRD PLACE

Franciscan St. Margaret Health

7443 Indianapolis Blvd Hammond, Ind. 219.844.8100 physicaltherapynow.com

24 Joliet St, Dyer, Ind. 219.865.2141 smmhc.com

With more than 20 therapists and therapist assistants in three locations, the family-owned APT Plus goes above and beyond

5454 Hohman Ave Hammond, Ind., 219.932.2300

Community Healthcare System provides immediate care at Community Hospital Outpatient Centre in St. John, services include Community Hospital where diagnostics, lab, X-ray, Outpatient Centre CT, MRI - one visit for 9660 Wicker Ave, St. John, Ind. help and answers. 219.365.1177, comhs.org The Centre features 11 exam rooms staffed by Community Care Center family practice physicians, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays. “You can count on our dedicated staff of physicians, nurses and technicians to take care of your healthcare needs when you need it most,” said Donald P. Fesko, Chief Executive Officer of Community Hospital. Patients are seen on a walk-in basis, no appointments necessary.

URGENT CARE

may 22, 2011 | best of the region

APT PLUS Physical Therapy

301 W Homer St Michigan City, Ind. 219.879.8511 saintanthonymemorial.org

[ best ]

[ best ] PHYSICAL THERAPY

217 N Broad St, Griffith, Ind. 219.924.1500

SECOND PLACE

Franciscan ExpressCare

12800 Mississippi Parkway Crown Point, Ind., 219.662.5700 1225 E Coolspring Ave Michigan City, Ind., 219.873.2919 2307 LaPorte Ave, Valparaiso, Ind. 219.476.8855 smmhc.com

THIRD PLACE

Hammond Clinic

7905 Calumet Ave, Munster, Ind. 219.836.5800, hammondclinic.com

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

photo [top] by TONY V. MARTIN; [bottom] PROVIDED

at the center of their work, while addressing the parents issues as well. The entire staff works as a team with dedication to providing the best all-around care for patients possible while making use of the latest technology. “Dr. Stroman and I both focus on teaching for our patients. For me in particular, I’m a working mother myself, so I’m able to relate with many parents that do as well,” says Dr. Pathak. “We function well as a team and have a very conservative approach.” Dr. Stroman adds, “Together we help each other raise healthy, happy children [and parents]!”

Let’s Get Acquainted

$59

Dr. Alavanja, Dr. Pieters and the entire Schererville Family Dentistry

Offer Expires in 30 days (Reg. $267)

includes exam, cleaning & x-rays. Offer good in absence of gum disease. New Patients Only. Not valid with any other offer. With this ad. Expires 6/30/11

staff wish to Thank You for voting us

Best Dentist/Dental Center & Best Customer Service 3 Years in a Row!

-or-

FREE

We are honored by this award. Welcome new patients!

Professional Offer Expires in 30 days Whitening Take Home Kit

Schererville Family Dentistry P.C. Robert Pieters, DDS & Ray Alavanja, DDS 1050 Caroline Ave. | Schererville, IN 46375

valid with exam, cleaning & x-rays. Offer good in absence of gum disease. Not valid with any other offer. With this ad. New patients only. Expires 6/30/11

nwidentist.com • 219.322.3232

Specializing in Interventional

s P i n e D i A g n o S i S A n D T r e AT m e n T w

m Shaun Kondamuri, md

ExpEriEncE

Dr. Kondamuri completed his fellowship in pain management at Yale University. He is Board Certified in Pain Medicine, Internal Medicine and Anesthesiology. He is often called upon to give lectures when his expertise is required. He is the principal investigator of research studies and has published scientific articles in the area of spine care and RSD.He takes extra effort to understand his patients concerns and tailors treatment to his patients needs.

pEacE of Mind

Dr. Gupta trained at Rush Presbyterian - St. Luke’s Medical Center. He is Board Certified in Anesthesiology and Board Eligible in Pain Medicine. Dr. Gupta divides his time between pain management and anesthesiology.

Training

M.I.S.S. physicians are the leading spine pain specialists in Northwest Indiana. They have completed fellowships and/or are board-certified in pain management. Our doctors continually attend workshops and conferences to remain at the forefront of pain medicine and spine care.

M.I.S.S. is the first outpatient center in Northwest Indiana to devote its practice to the diagnosis and treatment of chronic spinal pain. They are leaders introducing state-of-the-art pain treatments and technology.

M.I.S.S. understands pain and its harmful physical and emotional effects. The caring and experienced staff have an excellent bedside manner and will patiently answer all of your questions. All forms of insurance are accepted and we work with out-of-network patients to minimize out-of-pocket expenses.

vijay GuPta, md

Saveen Kondamuri, md

Dr. Kondamuri trained at Cook County Medical Center. He is Board Certified in Anesthesiology and Board Eligible in Pain Medicine. Dr. Kondamuri divides his time between pain management and anesthesiology.

ravi KanaKamedala, md (Retired)

Dr. Dasari trained at Harvard Medical School and at Bay State Medical Center. He is Board Certified in Pain Medicine and Anesthesiology. Dr. Dasari became the first physician in Northwest Indiana to be conferred the title of Fellow of Interventional Pain Practice. He practices interventional pain management on a full time basis.

rita Franzen, rn, anP

Rita Franzen completed her Masters Degree at Purdue University Calumet. She is a Board Certified Adult Nurse Practitioner. She collaborates with our physicians in an office setting providing care to patients.

mary malicK, rn, cnS, FnP-Bc

Mary Malick graduated from Purdue University with her Clinical Nurse Specialist and Family Nurse Practitioner Degrees. She is a Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Specialist. She collaborates with our physicians in an office setting providing care to patients.

Dr. Ravi trained at Loyola University Medical Center and Cook County Hospital. He is Board Certified in Pain Medicine and Anesthesiology. Dr. Ravi has retired from Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists.

Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists First in Proven Pain Solutions • First in Patient Care

SatiSh daSari, md

Munster • 8840 Calumet Ave Suite 103

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Merrillville • 333 W. 89th Suite W1 VAlPArAiSo • 1700 Pointe Dr. (219) 836-7246 or (877) 934-7246

nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Health Care

SECOND PLACE

LakeShore Bone and Joint Institute

601 Gateway Blvd Chesterton, Ind., 219.921.1444 lbji.com

THIRD PLACE

Orthopedic Specialists

730 45th St, Munster, Ind. 219.924.3300, osni.org

[ best ] WOMEN’S DIAGNOSTIC CENTER Community Hospital Women’s Diagnostic Center

901 MacArthur Blvd, Munster, Ind. 219.836.1600 9660 Wicker Ave Saint John, Ind. 219.226.2291 comhs.org

t Community Hospital’s Women’s Diagnostic Center, “Your peace of mind is invaluable to us,” says Dr. Mary Nicholson, medical director of the Clinic and regional director of breast imaging services for Community Healthcare System. “We provide comprehensive, convenient women’s health services for peace of mind with decreased stress and anxiety for patients.” Services include digital mammography, breast ultrasound, breast MRI, non-surgical breast biopsy, high risk breast clinic, breast imaging consultation, and bone density testing. Staff includes a fellowship-trained, dedicated breast radiologist and a nurse practitioner/certified breast health navigator. Upon request same-day results for screenings, diagnostic mammograms and breast biopsies are available.

SECOND PLACE

Franciscan St. Anthony Health

1201 South Main St, Crown Point, Ind. 219.757.6227 stanthonymedicalcenter.com

THIRD PLACE

Franciscan St. Margaret Health 5454 Hohman Ave. Hammond, Ind. 219.932.2300

24 Joliet St (U.S. 30) Dyer, Ind., 219.865.2141 smmhc.com

may 22, 2011 | best of the region

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Addiction Counselors Confidential Care

720 45th Ave Munster, Ind. 219.934.6410, confidentialcare.com

t Confidential Care, boardcertified psychiatrists Vijay and Sanker Jayachandran offer alternatives to in-patient care. Intensive outpatient care for adolescents and adults encompassing multiple levels of care, including medication management, therapy, and outpatient rehab and medicine-assisted detoxification, allows patients to be at home during recovery. “We stand out from other programs by offering a much higher level of outpatient service,” says Sanker Jayachandran, “You don’t have to put your life on hold.” On call 24/7, staff also includes nurse practitioners and clinical therapists, working in the areas of addictions, behavior modification, depression, anxiety and other issues.

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

photo by TONY V. MARTIN

customer service and patient care, treating orthopedic outpatients for back, neck, shoulders and feet. “We have a specialized work conditioning program, “ says owner Michael Vander Woude. “Workers injured on the job come here and we duplicate their work movements in a program custom-made for their job, so they are able to get back to work quicker and safer.”

w in a ro s r a e y un 18 F , y l d Frien le for you s that are suitab le du he sc nd ke ily time. and wee We offer evening upting your work, school or fam without disr

tient basis a p t u o n a n o Recovery to inpatient e iv t a n r e lt a as an ent facility. m t a e r t l ia t n and reside

ion!!

The Reg

219-865

We want to thank our patients for voting APT Plus the Best Physical Therapy in the region.

ou Thanvoktiy ng us

We are always working hard to provide you with the best care and service possible.

Your recognition is greatly appreciated!

Able to BEST TREAT: Addiction, Alcoholism, Depression, Anxiety, Gambling, and Mental Disorders. We also treat co-occuring mental disorders with addiction, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, PTSD, & poor school performance from ADHD, self mutilation can be treated with medication and counseling at our facility.

3 L O C AT I O N S F O R Y O U R C O N V E N I E N C E HAMMOND

www.physicaltherapynow.com

7443 Indianapolis Blvd. Hammond, Indiana 46324 219.844.8100

GRIFFITH

217 North Broad Street Griffith, Indiana 46319 219.924.1500

DYER

1100 Joliet Street • Suite 205 Dyer, Indiana 46311 219.864.3300

N O R T H W E S T I N D I A N A’ S C H O I C E F O R P H YS I C A L T H E R A P Y

State of the Art

in Spine Care

Best Trained Professionals and Staff Vijay Jayachandran, M.D., F.A.P.A

Diplomate, American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology Diplomate, Subspecialty of Addiction Psychiatry, A.B.P.N. Diplomate, American Board of Adolescent Psychiatry, Fellow, American Psychiatric Association

Diplomate, American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology Diplomate, Subspecialty of Addiction Psychiatry, A.B.P.N. Diplomate, American Board of Addiction Medicine, A.B.A.M.

4 HO

OPEN 2

for

Best OUTPATIENT TREATMENT and INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT TREATMENT. Confidential Care offers painless and comfortable medication assisted detox treatment while living at home followed up by our outpatient rehabilitation

Sanker Jayachandran, M.D.

Club In Health t s e B e Th ing Us ille, IN For Vot e A • ScherervNI41.COM u o Y k Than • Suit A WEEK WWW.OM1 Today! Hwy 41 221 US URS, SEVEN DAYS Call Omni 4 6969

Dr. Nitin Khanna and Dr. Dwight Tyndall, Board Certified and Fellowship trained physicians, are leaders in performing Minimally Invasive Surgery. Working as a team, they continue to provide excellent patient outcomes. Confidential Care offers evening and weekend schedules that are suitable for you without disrupting your work, school or family time.

» Comprehensive Diagnostic Services » Conservative Treatment Approaches » Latest Minimally Invasive Options

Located in Munster, Indiana, just across the Illinois border and 30 minutes from downtown Chicago.

720 45th Street • Munster, IN • 219-934-6410 www.confidentialcare.com Confidential Care is an integrated group practice with psychiatrists, counselors and social workers.

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

730 45th St., Munster, IN 46321 · (219) 924-3300 www.spinecarespecialists.com nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Health Care

ince 1992, Michael Nirenberg, DPM and Michael Lacey, DPM, the podiatrists at Friendly Foot Care, have been dedicated to alleviating foot pain. Dr. Nirenberg says that many times people feel that they have to live with foot pain, when really Friendly Foot Care they don’t. “Although we are a small practice we have many people come 50 West 94th Place, Crown Point, IN 219-663-2273, friendlyfootcare.com here who have tried everything and been to many doctors but they are still limping,” he says. “At Friendly Foot Care we are dedicated to solving problems and getting rid of pain.” The doctors have many approaches from conservative to surgical. For instance the use of orthotics, custom-made arch supports, is an easy way to gain relief. “Drug store arch supports are made for the perfect foot, and if you have an imperfect foot your foot will have to adapt to that arch support, which won’t work,” says Dr. Nirenberg. “We make our orthotics with the new 3DO digital computer system and they will allow you to walk in your foot’s most normal and correct position.”

EDITOR’S CHOICE [ best ]

PODIATRIST

Out-patient surgery is another option. In this case, the doctors use a high-tech camera to go into a tiny opening in either the ankle (arthroscopic surgery) to remove arthritic debris or through the heel (endoscopic surgery) to alleviate plantar fasciitis. The procedure takes less than an hour and the patient goes home the same day. The doctors also look at the patient’s overall medical problems and health. “We look at other medical problems that relate to the feet, such as back and neck problems,” says Dr. Nirenberg. “A lot of people with back, hip and knee pain may have had surgery but if the misalignment in the feet isn’t addressed, that back pain will be back.” The practice has state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, such as an X-ray machine called a flouroscan. This allows the patient and the doctor to see the bones of the foot moving. “If a big toe only hurts in a certain position we can push the joint to where they tell us it hurts and we can see what’s going on,” says Dr. Nirenberg.

We offer quality Cardiovascular Diagnostics and Interventions right in your community. Our equipment and methods are state-of-the-art, as are our physicians, nurses, and technologists. For more information, please contact your cardiologist. www.comhs.org

may 22, 2011 | best of the region

N E E D G O O D A DV I C E ?

m otcare.co o f ly d n ie www.fr For Voting T CARE u o Y k n a h T FOO FRIENDLY

BEST IST DIATR W!

PTWOO YEARS IN A RO

NW INDIANA’S HEEL, FOOT & ANkLE PAIN ExPErTS dr. michael nirenberg & dr. michael lacey Drs. NireNberg aND Lacey of Friendly Foot Care are among the nation’s top foot and ankle doctors. They strive for excellence when treating foot and ankle problems, specializing in stateof-the-art laser surgery, the revolutionary shockwave treatment for heel pain, and use tiny-incision arthroscopic surgery for ankle and heel pain. Drs. NireNberg aND Lacey use the latest techniques to solve the toughest foot and ankle problems.

Visit FrieNDLy Foot care 50 W. 94th Place Crown Point, IN On Broadway just South of VA Clinic

call (219) 663-2273 www.friendlyfootcare.com

aFForDabLe PaymeNt PLaNs A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

World-class, Comprehensive

Healthcare

Neurosurgical and Spine Services

at its BEST...

right here in the

Heart of Northwest Indiana.

The Physicians and Staff at Pinnacle Hospital want to say MarC LevIN, M.D., NeuroSurgeoN WayeL KaaKajI, M.D., NeuroSurgeoN MoHaMMaD S. SHuKaIry, M.D., NeuroSurgeoN

for nominating us for... Best Hospital Best Women’s Health Best Pain Management Best Orthopedic

801 MacArthur Blvd, Suite 405, Munster

219-836-5167 1600 S. Lake Park Ave., Suite 1102, Hobart

219-942-6510

Pinnacle Hospital in Crown Point isn’t one of those giant corporate “facilities” where the doctors are faceless and the patients are numbers. We’re attentive to your needs because we’re smaller than the other hospitals and can concentrate on what’s important to you ... You. We truly make the difference because we care about you. Pinnacle can also provide:

• Patient Centered Care • Patient to Nurse Ratio 4-1 • Spacious Private Rooms • 150 Multi Specialty Physicians • State-of-the-art Diagnostic & Imaging • State-of-the-art all female Breast Center offering same day results and immediate treatment options

Providing patients with immediate, safe and quality medical care from highly trained physicians with on-site laboratory and radiology services. We measure your wait in minutes not hours. Walk-ins welcome and no referrals are necessary!

9301 ConneCtiCut Drive Crown Point • 219-756-2100 www.pinnaClehealthCare.net Pinnacle is conveniently located on 93rd Avenue, just east of Broadway in Crown Point.

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

DownTown (MI)

New Buffalo harborcountry.org

Tiny downtown New Buffalo, Mich., is a popular with tourists and with Chicagoans for weekend getaways. Small boutiques offer upscale clothing, gifts, gourmet popcorn, home accents and more. Among restaurants offering hot dogs to haute cuisine are the iconic venues of Redamak’s, a summertime favorite for burgers; Oinks, offering hand-scooped ice cream; and nearby century-old Driers Meat Market. “New Buffalo is the heart of Harbor Country, a great place to get away for a few hours, days, or longer,” says Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Viki Gudas. “Our small town charm, unique shops and restaurants make you feel like you’re miles away.”

SECOND PLACE

Saugatuck/ Douglas saugatuck.com

THIRD PLACE

St. Joseph

Chicago

cityofchicago.org New York City may never sleep, but downtown Chicago has cultivated a well-earned reputation as an impressive melting pot city in its own right. Shopping on Michigan Ave. and attending world-class theatre productions in downtown Chicago have become ingrained in the Midwestern lifestyle. Spectacular ethnic food and music festivals take place year-round in places like Grant Park, Daley Plaza, and Millennium Park. And the Windy City loves to celebrate holidays, whether it’s dyeing the Chicago River green on St. Patty’s Day or lighting the Christmas tree in Daily Plaza to kick off the winter season. Check out the numerous event calendars online to plan a fun day downtown; in Chicago, there’s always something to celebrate.

Lansing

[ best ] PLACE TO LIVE (NWI)

THIRD PLACE

Crown Point

SECOND PLACE villageoflansing.com

Crete

villageofcrete.org or

C crownpoint.in.gov

rown Point, Ind.’s thriving economy, fourstar caliber schools, and rich cultural offerings (both historical and current) have made this city a place to admire. Its vibrant community life revolves around the downtown district, with almost every major celebration and citywide activity taking place there. “It brings people out of their homes to get involved with each other,” May David Uran says. “We’re very family-oriented, and we’re a very safe community.” The progress Crown Point has achieved in the last couple of years has been exciting and gratifying, but town leaders won’t ever consider their job finished; the city recently started revitalizing and adding to its parks and sports complex options, all devised without any tax increase for Crown Point citizens.

sjcity.com

SECOND PLACE

Valparaiso

ci.valparaiso.in.us

THIRD PLACE

Schererville

ci.schererville.in.us

photo courtesy of [this page, left] HARBOR COUNTY CVB; [right[ by KYLE TELECHAN; [opposite page] courtesy of LOUIS PRICE

Living

[ best ]

[ best ] Downtown (IL)

EDITOR’S CHOICE [ best ] Person TO BUY A SECOND HOME from IN MICHIGAN Louis Price

Coldwell Banker 10 N. Whittaker St New Buffalo, Mich. 269.469.3950 louisprice.com Realtor Louis Price, with Coldwell Banker, specializes in New Buffalo homes for sale, as well as all of Berrien County, including listings for purchase or sale in Union Pier, Grand Beach, Sawyer, Harbert, Michiana and all surrounding Berrien County, Mich. areas. “I really listen to people,” says Price. “People are already feeling pressured as they try to find the right home; I don’t add to that pressure by trying to get them to buy a property they don’t really want.” Price’s Web site also provides virtual searches for homes for sale and comprehensive community information to guide their buying or selling decisions.

[ best ] DOWNTOWN (NWI) Crown Point

C crownpoint.in.gov

Crown Point’s historical downtown has character, resilience, and refinement. The courthouse and the square are the heart and soul of the town. Almost every major (and minor) city event follows a path to downtown, from the annual Corn Roast, Taste of Crown Point, and

Saturday Farmer’s Markets in the summer to the Doll Parade, Easter Egg Hunt and Santa’s Holiday Parade during the holidays. And the thriving locally-owned shops and dining establishments complement the many downtown buildings with historical significance. For instance, take a trip to the Sheriff’s House (built in 1882), which was home to local sheriffs for 76 continual years in the front of the building that housed the infamous John Dillinger in the back (the then Lake County Jail) until he escaped in 1934. Check out the website to plan your own day trip - the possibilities are endless.

SECOND PLACE

Valparaiso

ci.valparaiso.in.us

THIRD PLACE

Munster

ci.munster.in.us

[ best ] PLACE TO LIVE (IL) Chicago

cityofchicago.org

s the third largest city in America, Chicago has fulfilled every big city expectation, while still maintaining its unique Midwestern lifestyle. The Windy City’s diverse neighborhoods are easy to get used to once you find the right one. And with over 200 neighborhoods in 77 community areas - each with its own temperament and character - you will find one that suits you. Chicago has made a tradition of several of its annual cultural events, including Taste of Chicago, Lollapalooza, and Christkindlmarket - to name

[ best ] PLACE TO WORK Citizens Financial Bank cfsbancorp.com

At Citizens Financial Bank, “We strive to bring value to our clients in every interaction we have with them, earning the right to be considered one of their primary trusted advisors,” says Daryl Pomranke, President and Chief Operating Officer. Being voted “Best Place to Work” by the employees “reflects the shared corporate vision of our staff and management.” Pomranke says the partnerships between the bank’s retail and business banking and support teams, and SECOND PLACE transparency in communication Franciscan contributes to the positive work Alliance environment and high employee Hospitals satisfaction. franciscanalliance.org “To all our team members, thank you for supporting THIRD PLACE our local communities and Centier Bank your commitment to Citizens centier.com Financial Bank.”

Living [ best ]

Place to Volunteer Humane Society of Northwest Indiana 6100 Melton Rd, Gary, Ind., 219.938.3339, millercritters.net

The Humane Society of Northwest Indiana program’s mission is to balance the health, safety, and welfare needs of the people and animals within the Northwest Indiana area; to provide shelter and care for the unwanted pets of the Northwest Indiana area until the time that a quality home is found for them; promote, motivate, and enforce responsible pet ownership; ensure the legal protection of animals from mistreatment; provide animal related services to the citizens of the Northwest Indiana area; educate the public through presentations and public relations; respond to the questions citizens may have regarding animals and refer them as necessary to the correct party; and provide a lost and found SECOND PLACE service for lost pets to owners. Franciscan “We care a lot about our animals. St. Margaret Health Our animals are well taken care of 5454 Hohman Ave Hammond, Ind., 219.932.2300 and all of them are fun and well adjusted and we have a large play 24 Joliet St (US 30) area where volunteers and throw Dyer, Ind., 219.865.2141 Frisbees to them, and consistently smmhc.com bathe them. We really appreciate THIRD PLACE our volunteers because we are a Meals on Wheels of humane society in a depressed area Northwest Indiana and we rely on our volunteers to 8446 Virginia St survive. We have some volunteers Merrillville, Ind. who come from far away just to 219.756.FOOD (3363) walk the dogs because they like our mealsonwheelsnwindiana.org shelter. We’ve been told we’re one of the cleanest in the area. You walk in and it doesn’t smell like there is even an animal in here,” says Betty Clayton, executive director.

may 22, 2011 | best of the region

only a few. And with the nation’s top-ranking hospitals, museums and a highly competitive sports culture, Chicago truly has the ability to indulge every personality that gets to live there. Quote: “I’m originally from Cleveland, and you have to drive everywhere there. So I really like how I can rely on the public transportation in Chicago. And there’s so many different bars that you don’t ever have to go to the same place twice if you don’t want to. My friends and I usually end up trying new places every weekend,” says Caitlin Surtck, a Lakeview neighborhood resident.

SECOND PLACE

Beecher

villageofbeecher.org

THIRD PLACE

Lansing

villageoflansing.com

[ best ] PLACE TO WORSHIP First United Methodist Church 6635 Hohman Ave Hammond, Ind. 219.932.5915 hammondfumc.org

irst United Methodist Church in Hammond is a group of Christian parishioners who gather to worship, as well as, enjoy other spiritual activities and missions. They offer a number of study and spiritual programs; activities such as yoga, quilting, and breakfasts; and they perform outreach into the community

[ best ]

PLACE TO LIVE (MI)

New Buffalo

harborcountry.org

ituated along the Lake Michigan shoreline, New Buffalo, Mich., offers a diverse environment, combining a resort atmosphere with a sense of community. The lake provides water fun and a clean, peaceful beach - there is a fee for beach access in summer - with plenty of eateries and shops within walking distance across the bridge into downtown. SECOND “With Lake Michigan as your PLACE playground, an excellent school system, South Haven southhaven.org and a thriving business community, New Buffalo is the ideal place to live, THIRD PLACE work, and play,” says Viki Gudas, St. Joseph executive director of the Harbor sjcity.com Country Chamber of Commerce.

to help those in need, both locally and globally. They also offer a children’s theater camp each summer and a variety of children’s programming for all ages. Douglas Simpson, pastor, says, “We believe in worship and gathering together as a household in the joy of simplicity, generosity, and contentment so that we place ourselves at God’s disposal. We come to worship expecting to be in the presence of God and in the embodiment of the people who gather. It’s being able to see your brother and sister in the family of faith together. We tend to be somewhat scripturally based as a congregation and the initiative is to do unto others as they do unto you, and we do it because it’s the right thing.” Every fifth Sunday of their service they have a service of healing in addition to their worship services. “We believe there is something unique about a service of healing, for those with physical ailment, emotional problems, mental anguish, and spiritual problems,” says Simpson who studied emotional healing.

SECOND PLACE

St. John the Evangelist 11301 W 93rd Ave St. John, Ind. 219.365.5678 stjohnparish.org

THIRD PLACE

Suncrest Christian Church

10009 Parrish St St. John, Ind. 219.365.9000 suncrest.org

[ best ] RETIREMENT/ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY Hartsfield Village

10000 Columbia Ave, Munster, Ind. 219.934.0750, hartsfieldvillage.com

EDITOR’S CHOICE [ best ] Dunes Specialist Dawn Bernhardt Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

748 E Porter Chesterton, Ind. 219.241.0952 dawnbernhardt.com

Dawn Bernhardt’s Best Dunes Specialist designation recognizes her expertise in real estate in the entire Porter County and surrounding areas, with particular focus on Sand Creek Country Club. The full-time agent has earned many awards for her work as a certified negotiation specialist and relocation specialist. “You need the right approach to living and playing,” notes Bernhardt. “That makes the Sand Creek Golf Course properties ideal places for such an approach.” Bernhardt’s Web site offers tools for searching homes for sale, learning about Porter County communities, home buying and selling tips, and more. But “personal customer service is key for me.”

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

SECOND PLACE

Franciscan Home 203 Franciscan Dr Crown Point, Ind. 800.524.6126 franciscanservices.com

Located in Northwest Indiana near Chicago’s bustling Southland makes Hartfield Village convenient for family, friends, professional services, places of worship, and familiar THIRD PLACE business and entertainment sites. Hartsfield Wittenberg Village Retirement Community offers a full 1200 E Luther Dr, continuum of lifestyle options and health Crown Point, Ind. care services. Independent apartments 219.663.3860 with services, assisted living apartments, lutheranlifecommunities.org a memory support residence, and skilled nursing care with rehabilitation. “All our services provide support in a 38-acre setting as pleasing to the spirit as it is to the eye,” says Elaine Braddock, marketing director for Hartsfield Village. “Hartsfield Village really is a special kind of place where value and a true feeling of home come together in an exceptional community.”

Living Well. Living Wise. Orlo really enjoys the diversity of activities offered to Assisted Living Residents. When asked his family’s reaction to moving to Hartsfield, Orlo said;

“Mom was very happy I moved in and said, thats nice!” You too can take advantage of current incentives and move in for Spring. ApArtments now AvAilAble

The Premier Senior Living Community in Northwest Indiana and South Chicagoland

Sponsored by Community Hospital

10000 Columbia Avenue Munster, IN 46321 (219) 934-0750 (800) 297-6188 www.hartsfieldvillage.com nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

SECOND PLACE

[ best ] Bank

Citizen’s Financial

cfsbancorp.com

Centier

Services

[ best ] Car Wash

Soft Touch

THIRD PLACE

centier.com

1303 Vale Park Rd Valparaiso, Ind., 219.477.4566

Chase

entier Bank, established by the Schrage Family in 1895, took top honors for Best Bank this year. From its roots in Whiting, Centier has expanded to 45 locations across Northwest Indiana, including three Business Banking Centers in Fort Wayne, Lafayette and Mishawaka. Centier is committed to being the Bank of Choice in Northern and Northwest Indiana “through a shared culture of values,” President/CEO Michael Schrage says. These values are ones “that the residents of each community we serve can hold close as our promise to remain dedicated to independent community banking for many years to come.” The bank also takes great pride in “offering world-class service to clients in each of our communities,” Schrage says.

chase.com

[ best ] Car Repair Shop Levin Tire

800.475.5005 levintirecenter.com Since founded in 1918, Levin Tire has grown from a small tire, repair shop into seven full service tire and auto repair centers in Northwest Indiana. Levin Tire provides such services as tire rotation, wheel balance, shocks and struts, computerized engine analysis, heating and air conditioning, batteries, belts and hose inspection, cooling system maintenance, emissions testing oil, lube, and filter transmission maintenance, tire repair, and disk brake service in addition to a wide selection of tire brands.

1492 Main St, Crown Point, Ind. 219.662.1648 6262 Broadway Merrillville, Ind., 219.980.2493 costascompanies.com/ costascarwash Mike Powell, store manager says, “Our customer service is the best. We pride ourselves on doing what’s right and if we blow it, we’ll make it right. If anyone leaves here unhappy, that makes me unhappy. We make sure everyone that walks through here walks out happy.”

SECOND PLACE

Crown Point Auto Repair & Restoration

1510 N. Main St Crown Point, Ind. 219.663.1857 crownpointautorepair.com

THIRD PLACE

Mr. Tire mrtire.com

Soft Touch has been in business for over 20 years in Valparaiso. Today, with two more locations in Crown Point and Merrillville, they’ve perfected the art of the dependable, fast car wash all over Northwest Indiana. Soft Touch uses a soft cloth car wash method, and they offer three wash packages: Basic ($7), Works ($10), and Works Plus ($13). Owner Jay Costas recommends the unlimited package deal, which lets you pay one monthly fee (the Basic wash price is $25) for unlimited car washes.

SECOND PLACE

Drive & Shine

1350 US Hwy 41 Schererville, Ind., 219.865.7788 driveandshine.com

THIRD PLACE

Easy Clean

9425 Indianapolis Blvd Highland, Ind., 219.922.7900

[ best ]

Childcare Center Growing Kids Learning Centers 3400 Campbell St, Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.7777, growingkids.com

Growing Kids Learning Centers are founded on the importance of early learning, which means engaging every child, no matter how young, in active learning through play and other experiences. And while learning is the center of everything the kids do each day, convenience and safety are extremely important to Growing Kids. The company’s unique flexibility for parents and custom-designed care facilities make it easy for parents to worry less. Growing Kids Learning Centers are also unique because their buildings are custom-designed from the ground up. The buildings feature everything from state-of-the-art safety and security measures down to the low custom-built windows that let kids see what’s out there in the world.

SECOND PLACE

1779 Indianapolis Blvd Schererville, Ind., 219.865.3411

1838 45th Ave Munster, Ind. 219.750.1900

2628 Bernice Rd Lansing, Ill., 708.895.5737 myeasyclean.com

Wonder Years THIRD PLACE

Child Enrichment Center 5221 Fountain Dr Crown Point, Ind. 219.736.5437

3994 Willowood Ct Crown Point, Ind. 219.462.5437 childrenrichmentcenters.com

SCHERERVILLE

GLASS & MIRROR Inc.

Serving Our Customers Since 1987

Come visit our Complete showroom & Design Center estimates always Free! • CommerCial resiDential CustomizeD mirrors, glass & shower Doors

• Mirror Designs • Mirrored Walls • Hot Tub Mirrors • Beveled Mirrors • Etching Sandblasting • Shower Doors • Tub Enclosures • Framed/Frameless • Store Fronts • Plate/Tempered • Patio Units • Table Tops • Plexiglass • Thermopanes • Storm Windows/Screen • Cabinet Door Glass

(219)

322-5050

302 E. Highway 30 (Deer Run Plaza) Schererville (Between Cline & Austin Ave.)

Showroom Hours: 8-5 M-F • 9-1 SAT • www.scherervilleglass.com

[ best ]

CUSTOMER SERVICE Strack & Van Til

AUTOMATIC STANDBY GENERATORS

thank you for voting us “Best In the region” for the

Be prepareD For YoUr neXt poWer oUtage

2nd Year In A Row!

strackandvantil.com

For more than 80 years, Strack & Van Til has built its exceptional personal service, with the lowest possible prices and outstanding value, around its customers. As a full service grocery store serving Northwest Indiana and the greater Chicagoland area, Strack & Van Til has grown from a single family-owned neighborhood grocery store to operating 16 Strack & Van Til stores, two Town & Country stores and 13 Ultra Food stores in Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland.

[ best ]

Door & Window Replacement

Schilling

8900 Wicker Ave St. John, Ind. 888.365.6005 schillings.com

enough energy to run your furnace, refrigerator, 2 sump pumps, well & family room. plus...a choice of kitchen or bedroom

prices reflect pre-packaged Standard Installation 7,000 watt (not Well Capable) .................................................... $2,999 8,000 watt (Well Capable) ......................................................... $3,450 10,000 watt .............................................................................. $4,080 14,000 watt (a/C Capable) ........................................................ $4,580 17,000 watt (a/C Capable) ........................................................ $4,980

SECOND PLACE

Citizens Financial

prices Subject to Change

cfsbancorp.com

THIRD PLACE

Centier centier.com

Meyer’s Companies Inc.

Thank you for voting us Best of the Region 2011 in Heating and Cooling and Plumbing.

chilling has more than 1,000 door and window styles from which to choose, all in one huge showroom with a design staff to help customers with selections ranging from front entryways to patio doors and windows. “Being the largest Andersen dealer in northwest Indiana and the Chicagoland area, we continue to strive to offer aggressive pricing, the best customer service, and widest

MEYER’S COuPON

$20 OFF

ANY SERVICE

Does Not Apply To Previous Orders

CALL US TODAY!

www.meyersgriffith.com

N.W. INDIANA: 219/924-1999 • HOBART: 219/756-1999 • ILLINOIS: 708/891-9099 A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Services selection anywhere,” says Jeff Schilling. With a complete line of Andersen products spanning an entire wall, customers can choose designs and materials for windows and doors at Schilling to fit any décor.

[ best ] Heating & Cooling

[ best ] Insurance Agent Connie Bernardi

SECOND PLACE

Meyers Heating & Cooling 100 N. Griffith Blvd Griffith, Ind. 219.924.1999 meyersgriffith.com

Schererville Glass & Mirror 302 East U.S. 30 Schererville, Ind. 219.322.5050 scherervilleglass.com

[ best ]

Home Builder

THIRD PLACE

The Door Store

235 Ridge Rd Munster, Ind. 219.836.8202 thedoorstoremunster.com

Olthof Homes

8051 Wicker Ave, Suite A, St. John, Ind. 219.558.8080, olthofhomes.com For over 50 years, Olthof Homes has been offering buyers more square footage, quality construction and luxury options, plus a comprehensive warranty and energy efficiency to provide peace of mind, all for an incredibly affordable price. As northwest Indiana’s leading new home builder, Olthof offers an unparalleled selection of single family homes plus maintenance-free villas, paired villas, townhomes and condominiums all featuring desirable open floor plans. You can choose from over a dozen amenity-filled communities by Olthof in Cedar Lake, SECOND PLACE Chesterton, McFarland Crown Point, Homes Dyer, St. John 2300-A Ramblewood Dr and Valparaiso. Highland, Ind. Recent MLS 219.934.9885 comparisons mcfarlandhomes.net show a new home by Olthof THIRD PLACE including Accent Homes select 2036 W 81st Ave upgrades is a (US 30) better value Merrillville, Ind. than similar 219.738.2589 existing homes. accent-homes.com

may 22, 2011 | best of the region

[ best ]

ELECTRICIAN D and K Electric Unlimited Valparaiso, Ind. 219.464.7576 electricdk.com

SECOND PLACE

Cedar Electric 29356 State Line Rd Beecher, Ill. 219.313.2588

THIRD PLACE

Teck Electric 21704 Clark St Lowell, Ind. 219.552.9400 teckelectric.com

hen it comes to quality service and customer satisfaction, “It’s all about our toptrained employees,” says Joe Yothment, co-owner of Meyer’s with Paul Starcevich. “We’re known for our 24-hour service.” One call does it all: “For a remodel, the customer wants to make the least number of phone calls,” says Yothment. Meyer’s handles heating, cooling, and electric, and plumbing design and repair. In addition to specials, rebates, discounts and coupons, the 55year business also offers an allseason service plan for worry-free maintenance.

Second place

Popa Heating & Cooling 2643 Highway Ave Highland, Ind. 219.838.7700 popahvac.com

THIRD PLACE

Lansing Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. 17823 Torrence Ave Lansing, lll. 708.474.4650 lansingheating.net

State Farm 1072 Joliet (U.S. 30) Dyer, Ind. 219.322.9959 conniebernardi.com

At Connie Bernardi State Farm in Dyer, clients are names, not numbers, says the veteran agent named The Best Insurance Agent for 2011. “We have caring and thoughtful people working here. They are compassionate and interested in our clients,” she says. A State Farm agent since 1994, Bernardi has earned honors from the insurance company, including the Legion of Honor Award. Prior to joining State Farm, she earned her bachelor’s degrees in Japanese and in international relations cross-cultural communication from the University of Minnesota. Bernardi’s involvement in the community includes membership in the Dyer Chamber of Commerce and chamber past president.

SECOND PLACE

Andrea Harbin State Farm 6504 US Hwy 6 Portage, Ind. 219.762.5114 statefarm.com

THIRD PLACE

Jennifer Gholson

American Family Insurance 2301 Cline Ave., Suite 105 Schererville, Ind. 219.865.9090 insurance-agency.amfam.com/ IN/jennifer-s-gholson/

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

St.John Plumbing Service

100 OFF

Water Heater We Install State Water Heaters.

They are Made in the USA. PC#10701230 With this ad. Not valid with any other offer. Expires 08/31/11

[ best ] KITCHEN & BATH REMODELING Schilling

SECOND PLACE

8900 Wicker Ave, St. John, Ind. 888.365.6005, schillings.com

Maruszczak Appliance Inc.

At Schilling’s 7,000-square-foot showroom, customers will find dozens of room scenes outfitted with cabinets, flooring, countertops - everything to create a new or remodeled kitchen and bath, and everything is in stock. Schilling’s award-winning staff offers free help in designing kitchens and baths within the customer’s budget, and with tips on green-friendly solutions. Generating design options allows customers to visualize any décor, from traditional to contemporary.

[ best ] Landscaper Allen Landscaping

2539 45th St, Highland, Ind. 219.924.6076, alchighland.com

7809 W U.S. 30 Schererville, Ind. 219.865.0555 maruszczak.com

THIRD PLACE

M&M Home Remodeling

3488 Eagle Nest Dr Crete, Ill 708.756.7800 m-mcorp.com

ervice, quality, and innovation exemplify Tom and Paula Allens’ 35year commitment to their landscaping business. “Our designers take great care in creating solutions that are not only practical, but tailored to the client’s taste and the opportunities of the site,” says Paula Allen. A skilled staff of accredited horticulturists and master gardeners transforms sketches into residential, commercial, and industrial projects

Lisa Thompson 219-617-5884 Let My Experience Work for You!

Serving NW Indiana Lake & Porter Counties

11+ Million and 64 Homes SOLD in 2010

For a Free Market Snapshot to Find Out What Your Home is Worth, VISIT: www.LisaThompsonRealtor.com

Thank YOU for Voting Me for The BesT of the Region 2011

Thank You Fo

r Voting Me

THE BEST!

For your Insurance & Financial Needs,

BEST INSURANCE AGENT Connie L. Bernardi Ins Agency Inc 1072 Joliet U.S. 30 Dyer, IN 219.322.9959

Like A Good NeiGhbor

StAte FArm iS there. ®

Providing Insurance & Financial Services statefarm.com® State Farm Insurance Company • Bloomington, IL • statefarm.com®

nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Services

Second Place

Martin Landscaping 9961 W. 109th Ave Cedar Lake, Ind. 219.365.3344 martinlandscaping.com

Third Place

Small’s Garden Center

1551 E. US Hwy. 20 LaPorte, Ind. 219.778.2568 smallsgardencenter.com

[ best ] OIL CHANGE TIED for First Place

Duke of Oil thedukeofoil.com

satisfied and without worry. Duke of Oil technicians go through a rigorous training program to provide the quality service the company is known for. Since 1980, Oil Express has serviced more than 20 million vehicles. That experience creates loyal customers who continually return to Oil Express for their auto maintenance needs. With 14 Chicago area and two Northwest Indiana locations, vehicle owners can be certain to find a convenient facility. After each and every service, Oil Express managers or assistant managers personally inspect the work of technicians.

SECOND PLACE

Oil ‘n Go

2806 Calumet Ave Valparaiso, Ind. 219.465.1087 1492 Main St Crown Point, Ind. 219.663.4364 costascompanies.com

THIRD PLACE

Drive & Shine 1350 US Highway 41 Schererville, Ind. 219.865.7788 driveandshine.com

Oil Express oilexpress.com

The Duke of Oil and Oil Express tied for first place in the 2011 “Best of the Region” contest for Best Oil Change, and with good reason. For more than 20 years, the Duke of Oil has been serving Northwest Indiana’s and Chicagoland’s car care needs, now with 13 locations. Customer service is the number one priority, with the goal to make certain each customer leaves

may 22, 2011 | best of the region

[ best ] REAL ESTATE AGENT (MI) Sharon Halliburton American Homes 4532 Red Arrow Hwy Stevensville, Mich. 269.208.3862 (cell) 269.983.2526 (office) sharonhalliburton.com

Since she became a Broker

Griffith Meats & Caterting owners Susan and William Masepohl.

EDITOR’S CHOICE [ best ]

Meats and Food Delivered Griffith Meats & Catering

507 East Glen Park Ave, Griffith, Ind., 219.838.0458 griffithcatering.com Although most neighborhood butcher shops have been replaced by one-stop-shop chain stores, many people are longing for that personal, friendly service, and hometown shops are experiencing a revival. Griffith Meats and Catering, owned by Susan and Bill Masepohl, is such a shop. Bill Masepohl has been a meat cutter for 30 years, but he longed for the days when butchers knew their customers by name. Last year they purchased the shop which opened in October, and Susan and Bill run the business together. Susan works full time for the school system in Hammond and handles the marketing and payroll in her free time. Griffith Meats and Catering also includes a smoker, and Bill makes smoked sausage and beef sticks, which are so popular that they can’t keep them in stock for very long. “We also smoke pig ears and dog bones for pets,” he says. “People call us all the time asking if they are ready yet!” Sausage is also made on the premises. Bill starts with the basics: Italian, Cajun, bratwurst, but then he branches out into the lesser know, such as an Italian petziola sausage, which is made with tomatoes, green peppers, onions and mozzarella cheese. “Our tagline is ‘your shop around the corner,’” says Sue. “Because our shop is literally in a neighborhood and we are really dedicated to that personal service.”

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

photo [this page, right] TONY V. MARTIN

that enhance the community, says Allen. Landscaping services include design, construction, and maintenance. A showcase offers ideas using stone and paving, while the expanded retail garden center inspires with colorful possibilities ad garden accents

TIED for SECOND PLACE

Louis Price

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage 10 N Whittaker New Buffalo, Mich. 269.469.3950 louisprice.com

Jay DeBruyn

Shores of South Haven 300 Kalamazoo St South Haven, Mich. 800.321.3513 or 269.637.8555 shoresofsouthhaven.com

[ best ] REAL ESTATE AGENT (NWI) Donna Hofmann Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage 2110 Calumet Ave Valparaiso, Ind. 219.331.1133 dhofmann.com

onna Hofmann has worked real estate at Coldwell Banker Residential

[ best ]

St. John Plumbing Service

10800 Joliet St, St John, Ind. 887.364.2080 stjohnplumbingservice.com For the third consecutive year, St. John Plumbing has been named “Best Plumber” in the Best of the Region contest thanks to the outstanding service the company provides. Wayne Spiekhout, a journeyman plumber, has more than a quarter century of experience servicing and installing plumbing in existing buildings. He and his wife, Darcy, co-own St. John Plumbing. St. John Plumbing Service’s experienced, licensed plumbers are available 24/7 for emergency repairs to malfunctioning plumbing in homes and businesses throughout Lake and Porter counties. Spiekhout keeps three trucks fully stocked with the supplies and equipment needed for any job.

SECOND PLACE

Meyer’s Heating & Cooling

100 North Griffith Blvd Griffith, Ind. 219.924.1999 meyersgriffith.com

THIRD PLACE

TLC Plumbing 1111 E. Main St Griffith, Ind. 219.922.6214

PLUMBER Fa s t L u b e S y s t e m s

in 2000, Sharon Halliburton has garnered several awards at American Homes, including the prestigious multiple diamond and platinum level sales awards. She works in the Southwest Michigan region, helping a huge range of clients transition smoothly to all different types of homes. She has a true love for the area she works in, and spends the necessary time getting to know the needs of each client she works with. To Halliburton, customer service is the number one priority.

SELECT SERVICES

Oil change, transmission, radiator, differential or fuel injection services. Must have this coupon to redeem this offer. One coupon per service. Expires 08/22/2011.

HigHland 9615 indianapolis Blvd. (219) 924-7840 Hammond 6747 indianapolis Blvd. (219) 844-9919

Calumet City 1700 Sibley Blvd. (708) 891-2470 SoutH Holland 235 W. 162nd St. (708) 339-3111

www.oilexpress.com

Fa s t L u b e S y s t e m s

Thanks to The Times readers for voting

Growing Kids

best child care in the region! We provide...

• Full or part-time care • Mon.-Fri. 5:45am-6pm • Evening care as late as 11:30 pm • Care for infants (6 weeks) through school age

We focus on:

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Campbell @ Bullseye Lake Road 219-462-7777 nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Services Brokerage for 22 years, and she has a tremendous amount of fun doing it. She’s earned several awards through the company, including membership into the prestigious President’s Circle, an honor bestowed only to the very top sales associates in the company’s offices worldwide. Her deep knowledge of each community in Northwest Indiana has led to her successes in finding the perfect place for each client.

SECOND PLACE

Chris Lozanovski

Tied for THIRD PLACE

Lisa Thompson

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage 2166 45th St Highland, Ind. 219.617.5884, lisathompsonrealtor.com

Bill McCabe

Century 21 Executive Realty 421 W Lincoln Hwy Schererville, Ind. 219.864.5015 Cell: 219.742.9200 bmccabe.com

Century 21 Executive Realty 421 W Lincoln Hwy Schererville, Ind. 219.864.5021 Cell: 219.712.5961, chrislozanovski.com

EDITOR’S CHOICE [ best ]

WINDOWS

Champion Windows of Schererville 1650 Indianapolis Blvd, Schererville, Ind. 219.864.1111, championwindow.com/schererville

hampion Windows of Schererville custommanufactures and installs doors and windows and has gutters, siding, shutters, soffits and more. Maintenance-free vinyl windows are Energy Starcertified. Champion creates several styles of all-season, glassed-in rooms, with 5-year structural warranties. A Visualizer computer program lets customers watch a Champion Windows expert apply products and colors so customers can choose their preference. Champion began in 1953, “But for us, only being in business in Schererville for 5 years, the Editor’s Choice designation is the biggest honor,” says division manager Caleb Herr. “We stand behind our products, because we make them and install them. That, with the warranties, makes a great combination.”

may 22, 2011 | best of the region

[ best ] RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

[ best ] VETERINARIAN

McColly

Munster Animal Hospital

T mccolly.com

he mission of McCOLLY Real Estate is to create long-term relationships and trust from customers and clients by developing the talents of individuals with the tools, training and technology required to achieve excellence, growth, fun and profit. Since 1974, McCOLLY Real Estate has grown to nearly 600 sales associates in 15 offices in three states. The firm specializes in resales, relocation, new home communities, land, luxury homes, condominiums and Florida Rentals. The convenient locations providing real estate, mortgage and title services at branch offices serving the neighborhoods of Northwest Indiana, Chicago’s Southland and Volusia County, FL.

10421 Calumet Ave Munster, Ind. 219.924.0101 munsteranimal.com Pet owners entrust their furry friends to Munster Animal Hospital because, says veterinarian Dr. Won Han, he and his team “have the same mind, the same heart. We see our clients suffering along with their pets; we want to relieve the suffering.” Han and his staff of 50 offer services including digital X-ray, dental, endoscopy, ultrasound, and surgery, with the most advanced technology available. From doctor to receptionist, everyone goes to continuing

SECOND PLACE

Coldwell Banker

coldwellbanker.com

THIRD PLACE

Century 21 Executive Realty

421 W. Lincoln Hwy Schererville, Ind. 219.864.5010 21exec.com 954 Eastport Centre Dr Valparaiso, Ind. 219.531.2288 valparaiso.21exec.com

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

[ best ]

ROOFER M&M Roofing

1877 E Summit St, Crown Point, Ind. 219.661.1600, mmroof.com

photo [this page, left] TONY V. MARTIN; [middle, right] PROVIDED

education and training. The boarding facility is state of the art. There is a complete air exchange every 10 to 15 minutes and there are noiseabsorbing panels. Music and movies are played for the dogs, and instead of cages there are decorated compartments with suites for dogs and condos for cats, plus an outdoor facility. Care is taken to provide the best grooming possible. Prices are moderate to make service available to more people. Han says, “I tell my staff, ‘We’re not here just to collect a paycheck. We’re here because we love what we’re doing.’”

ith over 30 year’s experience, M&M roofing has the ability to evaluate each project from a “systems” approach giving the homeowner the best solution possible. “We have perfected our processes to become extremely neat and efficient at providing each homeowner with a quality project that doesn’t drag on,” says owner Nick Yadron. “We also have the manpower to handle some of the most difficult and challenging projects in the SECOND industry. Our crews run like PLACE well-oiled machines working Rogers together to efficiently complete Roofing each project. Our roofing 4540 Wabash Hammond, Ind. crews do the removal, the new 219.933.9145 installation, and all flashing rogersroofing.com details the day of the job.”

SECOND PLACE

Community Pet Hospital 8138 Calumet Ave Munster, Ind. 219.836.0108

EDITOR’S CHOICE [ best ] STYLIST IN HARBOR COUNTRY Heath & Co

419 South Whittaker St, New Buffalo, Mich. 269.469.4247

ic Heath at Heath & Co. hair styling salon offers his own expertise in hair styling along with a select staff. His salon offers hair cutting, formal styling, color, perms, massage, makeup, manicures, pedicures, IPL treatments for skin, eyelash extentions, and many other professional services. There is a full line of Aveda hair and skincare products. “Heath &Co is a caring group of professionals who, along with Aveda, are committed to providing the highest quality services while being environmentally responsible and giving back to the community,” says Heath. “We actually care about your happiness; our goal is to see a smile on your face at the end of your service - that tells us we’ve done our job.”

THIRD PLACE

Bardens Animal Clinic

1642 E Commercial Ave Lowell, Ind. 219.696.0971 bardensanimalclinic.com

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Shopping

[ best ] ANTIQUE SHOP

[ best ]

It’s Just Serendipity

Maruszczak Appliance Sales & Service, Inc.

5630 Hohman Ave Hammond, Ind. 219.932.NEAT (6328) itsjustserendipity.com The cozy, whimsical It’s Just Serendipity shop in downtown Hammond has only been open for the past year and a half, but it’s managed to create quite a following with its eclectic mix of inventory. Owner Karen Maravilla, who grew up in Hammond, opened the shop because she wanted to do her part to revitalize the city’s downtown area. Besides standard antique fare, which includes furniture, clothing, jewelry, and other accessories, It’s Just Serendipity sells handmade items, art, and specialty food items from local artists and producers. Maravilla also produces custom gift baskets for a variety of occasions.

TIE for SECOND PLACE

Tish’s Antiques

201 E Commercial Ave Lowell, Ind., 219.690.1666 tishsantiques.com

The Vintage Rose

316 E Lincolnway La Porte, Ind., 219.325.0850 www.thevinrose.com

[ best ] BRIDAL/ FORMAL WEAR SHOP David’s Bridal davidsbridal.com

APPLIANCE STORE 7809 W Lincoln Hwy, Schererville, Ind. 219.865.0555, maruszczak.com

aruszczak Appliance is a family-owned and operated business that began as a repair shop in the early 1950s in SECOND PLACE Hammond. Today the original owner, Nick Maruszczak, still Nason’s Appliance 1158 E Summit St works in the store, working alongside his sons, Owner Doug Crown Point, Ind. Maruszczak Sr. and Nick Maruszczak, and grandchildren. 219.769.4161 Maruszczak still offers service for all types of appliances, nasonsappliances.com as well as a variety of product lines that were introduced in 1987, including all major brands of home laundry, kitchen THIRD PLACE cooking and refrigeration, cooking ventilation, wine and Hometown Appliance beverage refrigeration, waste disposals and compactors, & Electronics 10033 Wicker Ave beer kegerators, vacuums by Miele, and beds by the Green St. John, Ind. Bedding line from HGTV/Serta. 219.365.4758 Doug Maruszczak, Jr. says, “We’re a known name in hometownappliancestore.com the area. Second and third generation customers come to us. But that only goes so far. We go above and beyond to remedy problems. Problems happen, like it or not, with any kind of machinery and we remedy whatever comes up instead of pushing problems aside. We will go to a home three or four times to make sure a client is happy with their purchase. We still have a personalized sales approach and we’re there every day talking to customers. Here you can actually interact with the owners, so there’s faith to put with the name.”

rides love David’s Bridal for more than the perfect dress. Begin with David’s exclusive virtual planner, and view real weddings online for inspirations for colors, styles, and venues. Bridal gowns in sizes 2-16W are available in the latest colors and styles, with a choice of accents to create a one-of-a-kind dress. From a palette of 40 colors, brides can choose their color and let bridesmaids and mothers choose styles to look their best, from dresses to separates.

It’s definitely David’s for so many details of the day: invitations, planning photos, finding the ideal destination, honeymoon plans, gift registry, and more.

SECOND PLACE

Dunhill Tuxedos dunhilltuxedos.com

THIRD PLACE

Elegance Wedding & Evening 2820 Highway Ave Highland, Ind. 219.923.0977 elegancewedding.net

[ best ] CARPET/ FLOORING STORE

We Appreciate Our Moms

amount of square footage dedicated to the flooring departments makes it easy for you to actually see a lot of what they have available. Von Tobel stores have all of the necessary tools to do the job yourself, but they’re also more than happy to professionally install your flooring for you, too.

Von Tobel vontobels.com

Baby Store AND Consignment Store!!

SECOND PLACE

on Tobel Lumber and Hardware has garnered its reputation as an excellent source for flooring projects because of the huge range of choices they offer in every facet of the project. Their five locations around northwest Indiana and in Stevensville, MI make it convenient to travel to from anywhere in the northwest Indiana area. Once you get there, choose from several different brands of laminate, hardwood, ceramic, and carpet. The huge

Schilling

8900 Wicker Ave, St. John, Ind. 219.365.8585 9900 191st St, Mokena, Ill. 708.479.7007 schillings.com

THIRD PLACE

Cover Rite Carpets and Design Center

29 US HigHway 41 ScHererville (219) 864-1976 www.ouac.com

Best Diamond Prices. Best Service. Best Selection.

9400 Indianapolis Blvd Highland, Ind., 219.922.6800

111 E Joliet Rd Crown Point, Ind., 219.663.7500 cover-rite.com

As we celebrate our 60th Anniversary, thank you for making us one of the best!

2839 Highway Ave. Downtown Highland

(219) 838-2530 www.highlandjeweler.com

[ best ]

CONSIGNMENT STORE Once Upon a Child

onceuponachild.com

photo [opposite page, top] by TONY V. MARTIN

Bring it in and sell it, or come in and buy it - that’s the invitation at Once Upon A Child consignment shop. Items are in great condition and include clothes, toys, furniture, and equipment, all at very affordable prices. Parents can enjoy seeing some return on outgrown items and feel good about recycling. All used, new, and retrofitted items are evaluated for meeting safety standards. Employees at all 235-plus stores receive safety and recall training, and make sure each store environment is safe.

SECOND PLACE

Hidden Treasures

2211 U.S. 41, Schererville, Ind. 219.322.6340 hiddentreasuresconsign.com

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THIRD PLACE

8365 Wicker Ave.(US 41) • St. John, IN 46373

219-365-8362

It’s Just Serendipity

5630 Hohman Ave, Hammond, Ind. 219.932.6328

Celebrating 83 Years! A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

LAS VEGAS CARNIVAL CRUISE

WWW.DEYOUNGINTERIORS.COM Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10 am - 8pm Sat. 10 am - 5 pm • Closed Sun. nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Shopping GAME ROOM/ POOL STORE American Sale

1484 Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville, Ind. 219.736.8070 16955 Torrence Ave, Lansing, Ill. 708.895.3600 americansale.com A family-owned and operated business, American Sale began as a toy store in 1960. While working at his father’s barber shop, Robert Jones Sr. started buying toys to give to children who came in for haircuts. Soon, Jones stocked toys and Christmas items at the barber shop. As the idea took off, he expanded into a corner stores and gradually went into home recreation. From those humble beginnings this company now serves customers from eight stores located throughout the Chicago suburbs and Northwest Indiana. The newest store just opened in Carol Stream, Illinois. Today Bob Jones Jr. heads the chain as president and CEO. In that position, he also continues to hand-pick items for store inventory, and is focused on bringing customers the best selection of home recreation and holiday items available in stores or online. “We specialize in home recreation and holidays,” says James O’Sullivan, regional sales manager. American Sale has the handle on home swimming pools, including above-ground models and semi-in-ground pools. Customers will find everything from 12-foot to 30-foot round pools and oval pools up to 18 by 33 feet. “The most popular size is our 24-foot round pool,” O’Sullivan says. According to the National Spa and Poll Institute, the number one concern for those who enjoy swimming is clean water, he says. “With a home pool, you know the water is clean. Plus you don’t have to take the kids to a public pool or the beach.” Pools at American Sale range in price from $1,500 to $10,000, although most customers opt to spend between $2,500 and $3,500.

may 22, 2011 | best of the region

[ best ] ELECTRONICS STORE Best Buy bestbuy.com

SECOND PLACE

Hometown Appliance & Electronics

10033 Wicker Ave, St John, Ind., 219.365.4758 hometownappliancestore.com

THIRD PLACE

Best Buy is the mega superstore of all things electronic. With operations in the United States, Canada, Europe, China and Mexico, Best Buy is a multinational retailer of technology and entertainment products and services. The Best Buy family of brands and partnerships collectively generates more than $45 billion in annual revenue. Founded in 1966, this giant retailer offers TV and video, audio, car and GPS electronics, cameras and camcorders, mobile phones, office electronics, computers, music, books, movies, video games and video game systems, and home electronics and appliances.

Walmart walmart.com

[ best ] FLORIST Brumm’s Bloomin’ Barn 2540 45th St Highland, Ind. 219.924.1000 brummsflowers.com

Brumm’s Bloomin’ Barn has been a family-run flower shop since its founding in 1970 by Jerry and Nancy Brumm. The company’s

artistic floral designers are happy to help you send a simple, yet charming bouquet to someone special, but they’re also ready to plan any type of event, from an intimate party with close friends to a lavish wedding or companywide work conference. Brumm’s flowers are flown in directly from the growers, which keeps them the freshest in the area. The store also features a 5200 square foot gift space as well. The company can deliver worldwide, and its helpful website lets you browse flower arrangements by occasion, price, and type of flower; you can also pay online.

SECOND PLACE

Cedar Lake Florist 8600 Lake Shore Dr 219.374.7532 cedarlakeflorist.com

THIRD PLACE

Bryan’s Florist multiple locations bryansflorists.com 866.327.9267

[ best ] FURNITURE STORE Darvin Furniture

15400 La Grange Rd, Orland Park, Ill. 708.460.4100, darvin.com Darvin Furniture is a family-owned business dedicated to providing the finest selection of affordable, fashionable home furnishings at a value and customer service level unequaled in the marketplace. Started in 1920, Darvin is not only Chicagoland’s largest furniture store, it’s also one of the top 100 furniture retailers in the U.S. Located on 11 acres in Orland Park, the showroom has 130,000-square feet of furniture on display with all the famous brands and serves Northern Indiana and Chicago and surrounding suburbs. The team of design specialists can help plan or coordinate customer’s furnishing needs in the store or home.

Tied for SECOND PLACE

De Young Interiors

8365 Wicker Ave St. John, Ind. 219.365.8362 deyoungandsons.com

Indiana Furniture

1807 Lincolnway Valparaiso, Ind. 219.465.0545 indiana-furniture.com

photo PROVIDED

EDITOR’S CHOICE [ best ]

[ best ] GARDEN CENTER (MI) Sawyer Garden Center

5865 Sawyer Rd Sawyer, Mich. 269.426.8810 sawyergardencenter.com

here are lots of perennials, ornamental grasses and annuals with delivery service at Sawyer Garden

Center, but there’s also a big selection of home accents. “Escape to home - that’s what we’re saying this year,” says co-owner Linda McReynolds, noting people want to make their homes more visually pleasing. All the bright colors at Sawyer’s “will take your breath away when you walk in,” says McReynolds. A grocery section features local products, gourmet foods and kitchen gadgets, and a room is devoted to boutique wines and beers. Garden accents include sculptures, fine patio furniture, fountains and more.

SECOND PLACE

Groundworkes, Inc. 15486 Red Arrow Hwy Lakeside, Mich. 269.586.2133 groundworkes.com

[ best ] GARDEN/ NURSERY STORE (NWI) Alsip Nursery

10255 Wicker Ave, St John, Ind. 219.365.0882, alsipnursery.com

lsip Nursery was founded in 1969 in Frankfort, Ill. where they still have a location, as well as in St. John. The St. John location opened in 1994 on a 17-acre site. They offer a wide selection of patio furniture, fountains and statuary, ponds, grills, pets and supplies, wild bird feed/feeders, specialty toys, garden décor, and silk

Over 130,000 Square Feet of Quality BRAND NAME Furniture at Chicagoland’s GUARANTEED LOWEST PRICES!

florals, seasonal holiday. Rich Christakes, plant buyer for Alsip Nursery says, “We have, by far, the best quality plant material and selection in the Midwest when it comes to an independent garden center. We also give excellent customer service because we have a lot of long-term employees who have received formal and informal training programs. Plus we grow 95% of our annuals at our offsite greenhouse and so we carry our own vegetable, herbs, hanging baskets, flowers. We have 140,000 square feet of growing greenhouse.” Alsip Nursery just opened a satellite garden center in Southlake Mall parking lot by JC Penney the first of many to come.

The Darvin family thanks you for voting us the best place to buy furniture. We have been serving you for 90 years, and look forward to serving our wonderful customers in Northwest Indiana for another 90 years.

& More!

Special Store Hours: Monday - Friday 10 to 9 Saturday 10 - 5:30 Sunday 11 - 5

visit us at

.com

15400 La Grange Road, Route 45 (3 Blocks South of Orland Square), Orland Park, IL 60462 • (708) 460 - 4100 A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Shopping SECOND PLACE

Allen Landscape Centre 2539 45th St Highland, Ind. 219.924.6076 allenlandscape.com

THIRD PLACE

Scheeringa Farms & Greenhouses 9436 Cline Ave Highland, Ind. 219.838.6369 scheeringafarms.com

[ best ] GIFT BOUTIQUE Maria’s Hallmark 923 Ridge Rd Munster, Ind. 219.836.5025

1525 U.S. 41 Schererville, Ind. 219.322.5503 10827 Broadway Crown Point, Ind. 219.661.0420 hallmark.com

[ best ] GROCERY STORE Strack & Van Til

strackandvantil.com

track and Van Til is a full service grocery and fresh food store with over 30 locations in their chain including Ultra Food and Town & Country. Their stores are located throughout Northwest Indiana and Illinois. They offer superb selections in their meat, produce, delicatessen, bakery, and seafood departments, and have been

may 22, 2011 | best of the region

Maria Hobby’s three Hallmark stores in Northwest Indiana offer a collection of fun, unusual gifts and party accessories. Michi purses are versatile bags, with their change-out covers that create a different look for the same purse, while jeweled sandals provide bling. There are lots of specialoccasion choices for parties: personalized plates in popular themes, cards for all occasions, gift wrap and invitations. “We have a cross section of gifts for every taste and every pocket,” says owner Maria Hobby, “and our sales people really try to please people with great customer service.”

SECOND Place

Brumm’s Bloomin’ Barn 2540 45th St Highland, Ind. 219.924.1000 brummsflowers.com

THIRD place

Louise’s Hallmark 9533 Wicker Ave St. John, Ind. 219.365.3837 hallmark.com

[ best ] HOME DECOR STORE Bed, Bath and Beyond

bedbathandbeyond.com ike the name says, Bed, Bath and Beyond carries everything for the, well, bed, bath, and beyond. And it’s that beyond that fills the store’s massive interior with everything under the sun, from replica pay phones to luggage, from shoe racks to vacuums, from juice jars to wedding cake toppers. Those getting married, going to college, buying a first home, redecorating an old home, organizing an over-stuffed closet, hosting a dinner party, going to a baby shower, decorating for Halloween, planning a picnic, slicing a turkey, turning the guest

bedroom into a home office, cleaning out the garage, or just giving the kids’ bathroom a cute yellow duck theme, will find everything they need.

SECOND Place

Old Time Pottery

8225 Broadway Merrillville, Ind. 219.793.9747 oldtimepottery.com

THIRD Place

J.C.Penney Home Furnishings Store Merrillville Plaza 1600 E. 80th Ave, Rte 30 Merrillville, Ind. 219.738.2362 jcpenney.com

serving the region since founder Bernie Strack first opened his doors over 80 years ago. Matt Gard, advertising director for Strack and Van Til, says customers are loyal to their store for a variety of reasons. “We’ve been dedicated to the community for over 80 years. We support organizations that enhance the quality of life in our region. We also put a lot of effort into our employees with their SECOND training and development PLACE and I think our customers appreciate that. We also meijer.com have fantastic service and selection and I think THIRD PLACE customers recognize the value in that and they aldifoods.com keep coming back.”

Meijer Aldi

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

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photos [opposite page, top left and bottom] by TONY V. MARTIN

Hurry in-special offers end May 24tH

7809 W. Lincoln Highway (Rt. 30 & Cline)

219-865-0555 Thank you to all our customers who have voted us "Best in the Region" for 3 consecutive years!!

M. & Th. 8:30am-8pm • T. W. F. 8:30am-6pm Sa. 8:30am-5pm • Closed Su. www.maruszczak.com

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

R. ll yea CK at ... a , S R WINNe IVe FeeDBa e h t G l tOf s e See al FeeDBaCK, B / m i.co Get

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nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Shopping

Menards menards.com

Headquartered in Wisconsin, Menards is a megastore with over 250 locations in 12 different states. With departments such as building materials, hardware, electrical, millwork, wall coverings, plumbing and housewares, floor coverings, cabinets, and appliances. Menards specializes in such brands as Pittsburgh Paints, Dutch Boy paint, Mastercraft doors, Stanley Works tools, Jeld-Wen windows, Tru-Bolt, and Ultradeck, among many others. Contractors and the average Joe alike come to Menards to find all of their home improvement needs. Menards even offers house design plans, garage building designs, and post frame building designs. They also offer Energy Star Home Advisors to help home owners and businesses save money on energy bills.

SECOND Place

Home Depot homedepot.com

THIRD Place

Schilling

8900 Wicker Ave, U.S. 41 St. John, Ind. 219.365.8585 9900 191st St, Mokena, Ill. 708.479.7007 schillings.com

may 22, 2011 | best of the region

[ best ]

Jewelry Store Albert’s Diamond Jewelers

711 Main St, Schererville, Ind., 219.322.2700 Southlake Mall, Merrillville, Ind., 219.769.1976 albertsjewelers.com

n business for over 100 years, Albert’s Diamond Jewelers is today owned by Fred and Josh Halpern, a father and son team. Fred’s father bought the company in the 1960s and it’s always been a jewelry store although they at first sold pots and pans, cashed checks, pawned items, and did a little bit of everything, says Carol Jarrett, one of the five managers at the store. Albert’s was originally located in East Chicago near the steel mills, but they are now located in Schererville and serve customers from all over. Jarrett says, “I believe our customer service is what makes us different. We go above and beyond, meet our guests at the door, give them beverages and cookies, and we have many employees here so service is fast and excellent. We try to treat everyone the same, whether they are getting a battery or a $50,000 piece.” Mary Colville, chief marketing officer says, “We are a destination store. We have ten times the inventory of a traditional jewelry store. It’s very relaxed here and makes jewelry buying fun and accessible.”

[ best ] Hunting/ Fishing/ Outdoor Store Bass Pro Shop

6425 Daniel Burnham Dr Portage, Ind., 219.787.6800 basspro.com

tep into one of the country’s 60 Bass Pro Shop and it’s like you’re stepping into another world. With taxidermy looming overhead, to the side, behind you; huge aquariums filled with fish of the Great Lakes; waterfalls sounding like river rapids ready for a raft; shooting ranges with targets on duck decoys and unsuspecting cardboard opossums; Bass Pro Shop is an outdoor person’s dream. Guns, tents, barbeques, clothing, flashlights, fishing rods, hiking shoes, bows and arrows, ATVs, electronic fish finders, sunglasses, golf clubs, and more.

SECOND Place

Highland Jeweler

2839 Highway Ave Highland, Ind., 219.838.2530 highlandjeweler.com

THIRD place

Sickinger’s Jewelers 314 E. Commercial Ave, Lowell, Ind., 219.696.7616 sickingersjewelry.com

Bass Pro Shops specializes in fishing boats with their enormous showroom, allowing clients to customize their own boat.

SECOND PLACE

Cabela’s

7700 Cabela Dr, Hammond, Ind. 219.845.9040 cabelas.com

THIRD PLACE

Blythe’s Sport Shop

2810 Calumet Ave Valparaiso, Ind. 219.476.0026 138 North Broad St Griffith, Ind. 219.924.4403 ihuntishoot.com

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

photo [top] by TONY V. MARTIN

[ best ] HOME IMPROVEMENT STORE

amed #1 N e b o t onored e in We are Hn’s Clothing Stor Wome n! the Regio

We want to thank all of our loyal customers for voting for us. We hope to see all of you at Amy Laurie’s! Please stop by to see our bright, colorful, new Summer line and accessories!

We would like to say “Thanks” to all of our loyal customers new & old for voting us their favorite jewelry store in the region.

613 N. Main St. Crown Point (Across from Wendy’s)

219-661-8094

M-Th 10 am-5 pm Fri 10 am-7 pm Sat 10 am-5 pm New Extended Parking Enter & Exit Off Court St.

Evening Hours By Appointment.

Owners: Judith Kaye & Nancy C. Goodwin

711 Main St. • Schererville, IN Southlake Mall • Merrillville, IN 219-769-1976 219-322-2700 HOURS: Monday-Friday 10am-8pm, Saturday: 9am-6pm, Sunday: 11am-5pm

Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10am-9pm, Sunday: 10am-6pm

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Shopping

Nick’s Liquors

6914 Indianapolis Blvd Hammond, Ind. 219.844.3239 nicksliquors.com Owner Nick Kikalos First opened in Hammond in 1971 by Kikalos’ parents. It has since grown into a chain of five stores in Northwest Indiana. Four in Hammond, one in Hobart, and in the process of building a new store to open in the fall at US 30 and Taft in Merrillville. Also have two cigarette stores, one in Dyer and one in Hammond. “We have always stressed customer service. My mother and father started the business and my sister, Liz Kikalos, and I took over and we continue that tradition. We have always tried to be the lowest priced store out there and hire the right employees to make the customer happy and they keep coming back. I’ve been doing this personally for 30 years and still see the same customers as day one and that’s a nice thing,” says Nick Kikalos.

SECOND PLACE

Wise Guy’s Liquors

9133 Taft St Merrillville, Ind. 219.791.9419 wiseguysliquors.com

THIRD Place

St. John Wine & Spirits

9540 Poplar Ln St. John, Ind. 219.558.8911 stjohnwineandspirits.com

Bedding Experts beddingexperts.com

ince 1987 The Bedding Experts retail mattress showrooms - more than 100 in the Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana region - have been offering convenience in shopping and a wide range of products for comfortable sleep. Brands including Stearns & Foster, Sealy, Tempur-Pedic and more are shown in “very attractive showrooms with all the new beds for 2011 and 2012 at the best pricing,” says Dan Cicero, Indiana district sales manager. Helping customers select futons, mattresses, headboards and more are local employees who tend to stay with the company and support the local economy. “When customers walk into The Bedding Experts they know they will get the best pricing with lots of selection, and receive the highest leveel of customer service and professionalism.”

SECOND PLACE

Mattress World 1113 W Lincoln Hwy Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.7675 sleepset.com

THIRD PLACE

Indiana Furniture 1807 E. Lincolnway Valparaiso, Ind. 219.465.0545 indiana-furniture.com

may 22, 2011 | best of the region

[ best ] Men’s CLOTHING STORE KOHL’S

E Kohls.com

xpect a great selection when you shop for men’s clothing, where there are 41 brands for men, plus 14 brands for big and tall. Active wear includes Adidas, Nike, and other wellknown names, while casual brands range from the Levi’s

that go anywhere to Docker’s that go with everything. Crofts & Barrow has polo shirts to professional shirt-and-tie combinations. The wide selection of men’s clothing takes the average male from the Monday through Friday suit to separates to casual Friday’s jeans and sport coats. Outerwear ranges from lightweight jackets to smartly tailored topcoats. Weekend clothes are easy to find at Kohl’s with shops for five major sports, offering outfits with jackets, hats, jerseys

[ best ]

NEW CAR DEALER Schepel Auto Group (Buick-GMC-Cadillac-Hummer) 3209 W. Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.6381, schepel.com

At Schepel Auto Group, “We take care of people, with service second to none and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau,” says new car manager Jim Katona. The dealership’s specials and new vehicle prices reflect all available rebates and incentives. Special GMAC financing may be available in lieu of rebates. At the Web site people can apply for financing and search current inventory, like the 20011 Buick Lucerne CX, Buick Regal CXL, and GMC Siera 1500 SLC. There are also low-mileage lease for well-qualified lessees.

and shoes. For days off there is a wide array of pajamas and loungewear. Accessories include sunglasses, belts, wallets, and ties — everything to finish the look.

SECOND PLACE

JCPenney Jcpenney.com

THIRD PLACE

David’s Men’s Clothier & Shoes 113 Lincolnway Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.0012 davidsmensclothier.com

SECOND PLACE

Smith Auto Group (Chevrolet-Ford) 1777 E. Commercial Ave Lowell, Ind. 866.729.3986 6405 Indianapolis Blvd Hammond, Ind. 866.424.3259 700 W. Commercial Ave 866.727.1547 Lowell, Ind. thesmithautogroup.com

THIRD PLACE

Christenson Chevrolet

9700 Indianapolis Blvd Highland, Ind. 219.924.4144 christensonchevy.com

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

photo by TONY V. MARTIN

[ best ] Liquor Store

[ best ] MATTRESS STORE

nter.com

U O Y K N A H T

inTireCe v e .L w w w

N FOR VOTI

E R I T LEVTIANUTO REPAIR

E BES R O T S E R I & BEST T

Thanks for Voting Welch’s Stop & Shop

The Best Place for Meat & Poultry

WE ARE A FULL SERVICE AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CENTER BRAKES

(variety and steak)

We have delicious hoMeMade sOUps

Join us For

satUrday COOkOUts!

Wheel Alignment

BELTS & HOSES

meat paCks Along with • Steaks • Roast • Chops • Sausage • Hams • Beef Snack • Sticks• Homemade Jerky

STRUTS

COUPON

BUY 3 SHOCKS 4TH E OR STRUTS GET TH

FREE!

SHOCKS

COUPON PREMIUM VALVOLINE DURABLEND SEMI-SYNTHETIC OIL CHANGE WITH 4 TIRE ROTATION

OFFER VALID APRIL 1 - MAY 31, 2011 Rebate will be for the lowest cost unit. Valid on qualifying products only. Installation/Labor costs not included. See store for details. Restrictions apply. Offer ends 5-31-11. TD

MOST CARS

MAIL-IN REWARD CARD $10 OFF FUTURE PURCHASE No other discounts apply • Expires 6-8-2011. TA

s e r v i n g f o r o v e r 5 4 ye a r s We invite You to Experience the Welch’s Difference

Welch’s Stop & Shop The besT selecTion and freshest meats and produce

219-365-8190 11333 W. 95th Street • St. John (next

K-Mar t)

visit us at: www.welchsmeats.com or www.nwi.com/meettheexpert A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Family Owned & Operated Since 1918 MERRILLVILLE

MERRILLVILLE (RT. 30)

5713 Broadway Mon-Fri 7:30-6 Sat 7:30-4

1790 West 81st St. Mon-Fri 7:30-6 Sat 7:30-2

219-887-0531

HIGHLAND

219-924-1710

9500 Indianapolis Blvd. Mon-Fri 7:30-6:30 Sat 7-4:30; Sun 10-4

219-736-7725

HAMMOND

219-845-9220

6901 Indianapolis Blvd. Mon-Fri 7:30-6 Sat 7:30-4

CROWN POINT

219-663-1876 501 N. Main Mon-Fri 7:30-6 Sat 7:30-4

VALPARAISO

219-462-1500 203 Silhavy Road Mon-Fri 7:30-6:30 Sat 7-4:30

HOBART

219-947-2574

Route 6 & 51 (Save More Plaza) Mon-Fri 7:30-6 Sat 7:30-4

OPEN SUNDAY IN HIGHLAND nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Shopping [ best ] PET Shop PETCO

P www.petco.com

ETCO might be seem like a corporate giant, but its philosophy of pets as the first priority shines through in every venture the company undertakes. PETCO believes in adoptions first; they frequently partner up with the local Human Society to give them a chance to

match people looking for pets up with the animals they have. The store itself sells small animals (mice, rats, hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, etc.), reptiles, birds, and fish, as well as all the supplies you could ever need to keep your pet healthy and happy.

SECOND PLACE

Pet Supplies Plus petsuppliesplus.com

THIRD PLACE

Alsip Nursery 10255 Wicker Ave St. John, Ind. 219.365.0882

20601 S LaGrange Rd Frankfort, Ill. 815.469.1044 alsipnursery.com

[ best ] Place to Buy Meat & Poultry Welch’s Stop N’ Shop

11333 West 95th St, St. John, Ind., 219.365.8190, welchsmeats.com

Welch’s Stop N. Shop was established in 1953 by Edward Welch and it is still owned and operated today by Edward’s son David, and his son Edward. Welch’s offers a wide variety of meats, such as steaks, chicken, hams, chops, roasts, beef, freshly-made sausage, and even homemade jerky. They offer a variety of take-home meals such as BBQ ribs and chicken made on site, sloppy joes, BBQ beef and pork, stuffed cabbage, stuffed peppers, Swedish meatballs, sauerkraut and many other selections. Their bakery makes fresh breads and pies, and their deli offers homemade deli salads like campfire SECOND PLACE beans, lunchmeats, and cheese. For Strack & Van Til special events, such as graduations or strackandvantil.com picnics, they sell trays and packages at THIRD PLACE a savings. “It’s our customer service and Doug Komo’s the quality of the meat we handle that Meat & Deli Inc. makes us popular. We have a personal 13410 Wicker Ave service and know people by name. It’s Cedar Lake, Ind. 219.374.7773 always familiar faces that come here,” says J.J. Calarie, store manager.

may 22, 2011 | best of the region

[ best ] PLACE TO BUY PRODUCE

[ best ] PLACE TO BUY WINE

Strack & Van Til

9133 Taft St Merrillville, Ind. 219.791.9419 wiseguysliquors.com

strackandvantil.com

Produce has become an increasingly important area for consumers. Produce quality and availability varies with seasons and growing conditions, and freshness is critical for most produce items. All stores under the Strack & VanTil’s umbrella use a number of suppliers, and because of the volume of sales, freshness is guaranteed 200 percent. The Strack & Van Til company has also worked diligently with its suppliers to offer more sale items on the most-purchased items every week. Whether you’re a long-time customer or walking into a Strack & Van Tilowned store for the first time, you’ll notice the difference.

SECOND PLACE

Meijer

meijer.com

THIRD PLACE

Scheeringa Farms & Greenhouses

9436 Cline Ave, Highland, Ind. 219.838.6369 scheeringafarms.com

Wise Guys Liquors

ith 1000 different wines in stock and its own fulltime sommelier (wine steward) on staff, Wise Guys Liquors has earned its title of Best Place to Buy Wine. Sommelier Tony Sandilla has made Saturday evening trips to the liquor store a night in itself with his free wine tastings. Every Saturday, he features four to eight different wines with a theme, perhaps something like wines of Spain, wines of Italy, or local wines. He says the tastings have even garnered him regulars, including families that come in together for the event. Wise Guys really does carry something for everyone wines for $3 a bottle, wines for $300 a bottle, and everything in between (box wine, no exception).

SECOND PLACE

Nick’s Liquors nicksliquors.com

THIRD PLACE

St. John Wine & Spirits 9540 Poplar Ln St. John, Ind. 219.558.8911

9480 Wicker Ave St. John, Ind. 219.365.8328 stjohnwineandspirits.com

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Wise Guys is a one-of-a-kind Wine, Beer & Liquor Buying Experience. Wise Guys Discount Liquors offers the biggest selection and best prices in all of Northwest Indiana. Our discount wine, discount beers and discount spirits make Wise Guys the place to go for all your shopping! We’re finding more and more people are looking at Wise Guys as more than just a liquor store... it’s become a destination! As word spreads, we’re finding people driving here from Illinois, over in Michigan City... and even New Buffalo! Last fall we expanded Wise Guys by 30% allowing us to stock more than 300 wines from around the country and all around the world! Wise Guys. The smart way to buy liquor.

Eric Hart Owner

Thank you for voting us your favorite place to buy wine! 93rd & Taft, Next to PayLow Merrillville Phone: 219•791•9419 check us out at: wiseguysliquors.com

Thank you for voting us one of the best in region Best Place to Buy Wine and Best Liquor Store

Thank You for Voting Us Best in the Region

AppliAnce SToRe

› Fine Wine › Spirits › Crafts Beers › Speciality Gifts & Baskets We Keep You in Good Spirits!

(219) 769-4161 or (219) 663-6140 | www.nasonsappliances.com

9540 Poplar Ln. • St. John, IN • 219.558.8911

CROWN POINT • 1158 Summit Street (Millennium Park) Turn west off Broadway onto Summit, on your right side in Millennium Plaza Hours: Monday - Thursday 9-7 Friday • Saturday 9-5

See our website for wine tasting schedule

www.stjohnwineandspirits.com

Our Customers.

Blythe’s Wants To

Blythe’s has been serving NWI & Chicagoland at the same location in Griffith since 1952 and in Valparaiso since 1980.

NWI & ChICaGoLaNd’s #1

LIBerty home & GuN safe deaLer!

SeRVIce, SeLecTIOn, And PRIce continues to help us grow to meet your needs.

Largest selection of hunting, target & personal defense guns.

FAMILY OWNED•FAMILY OPERATED•FAMILY VALUES maKes us unique

SINCE 1952

GRIFFITH

138 N. BROAD • (219) 924-4403 Mon.- Fri. 9am- 6pm • Sat. 9am - 5pm

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

CheCk us out at

www.Libertyhomesafe.com

VALPARAISO

SPORT SHOPS

2810 N. CALUMET • (219) 476-0026 Mon.- Fri. 9am- 6pm • Sat. 9am - 5:30pm • Sun. Noon to 5pm

nwi.com/bestof | may 22, 2011

Shopping

Shoe Carnival

shoecarnival.com

Shoe Carnival doesn’t clown around when it comes to brandname shoes. These aren’t the cheap plastic versions of hot trends. Shoe Carnival carries all of the same brands found in more expensive stores for affordable prices. They frequently offer specials and promotions, such as halfoff sales, and in store the environment is much like a carnival. They offer in-store contests, games, neon signs, flashing lights and up-tempo music to produce an energized shopping atmosphere.

SECOND PLACE

Famous Footwear famousfootwear. com

THIRD PLACE

Barney’s Hub Bootery

108 N Main St Crown Point, Ind. 219.663.0463

USED CAR DEALER

Levin Tire

Schepel Auto Group (Buick-GMC-Cadillac-Hummer)

levintirecenter.com

ince founded in 1918, Levin Tire has grown from a small tire, repair shop into seven full service tire and auto repair centers in Northwest Indiana. Levin Tire provides such services as tire rotation, wheel balance, shocks and struts, computerized engine analysis, heating and air conditioning, batteries, belts and hose inspection, cooling system maintenance, emissions testing oil, lube, and filter transmission maintenance, tire repair, and disk brake service in addition to a wide selection of tire brands. Mike Powell, store manager says, “Our customer service is the best. We pride ourselves on doing what’s right and if we blow it, we’ll make it right. If anyone leaves here unhappy, that makes me unhappy. We make sure everyone that walks through here walks out happy. We carry Goodyear, Dunlop, Kelly, and are an authorized Michelin and BF Goodrich dealer.”

SECOND PLACE

2929 Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville, Ind., 866.724.3735 3209 W. Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville, Ind., 219.769.6381 schepel.com

[ best ] WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE Amy Laurie’s Eclectic Boutique 613 N Main St, Crown Point, Ind. 219.661.8094.

Judith Kaye has owned Amy Laurie’s Eclectic Boutique for 32 years, but when her long-time friend Kim Goodwin joined her as a business partner one and a half years ago, the boutique took on a new life with the expansion of their merchandise and a face lift for their presence in the community. Eclectic is the perfect word for this boutique; they carry clothing, jewelry and accessories for every type of occasion and every age down to young women in their teens. Their attention to customers is also exceptional.

TIE for Second PLACE

Chic Unlimited

Discount Tire discounttire.com

1 Courthouse Sq Crown Point, Ind. 219.663.6672

THIRD PLACE

Judee’s

Lake Tire

5706 Hohman Ave Hammond, Ind. 219.932.2022

may 22, 2011 | best of the region

A staple in the Northwest Indiana community for more than 42 years, Schepel Auto Group (BuickGMC-Cadillac-Hummer) in Merrillville is the largest GM Certified Used Vehicle dealer in the Chicagoland area. The two dealership locations carry a large quantity of Pre-owned Buicks, Pre-owned Pontiacs, Pre-owned GMC’s, Pre-owned SECOND PLACE Hummers and PreSmith Auto Group owned Cadillac’s, (Chevrolet-Ford) in addition to used 1777 East Commercial Ave Chevrolets and Lowell, Ind. used Saturns. 866.729.3986 Both Schepel 6405 Indianapolis Blvd Used Car Hammond, Ind. Departments 866.424.3259 carry makes and models not in the 700 West Commercial Ave GM family such as Lowell, Ind. Used Dodges, Used 866.727.1547 Fords, Used Jeeps thesmithautogroup.com and Used Lincolns. THIRD PLACE Customers can Christenson also shop online Chevrolet for great pre9700 Indianapolis Blvd owned vehicles at Highland, Ind. www.schepel.com. 219.961.4144 christensonchevy.com

1104 Indiana Ave, La Porte, Ind. 219.324.6443 judees.com

photos by TONY V. MARTIN

[ best ] SHOE STORE

[ best ]

[ best ] TIRE STORE

3 Loc

ation

for making us #1 for Best NEW and USED Car Dealer!

The New Class of World Class

T HE NEW STANDARD OF THE WORLD

WE ARE PROFESSIONAL GRADE

32 mpg hwy

neW 2011 buick

neW 2011 gMc

LacroSSe cx

terrain

24,995

StARtIng At

25,305

*Price includes GM owner loyalty or non GM conquest (must own 1999 or newer non-GM or 1999 or newer Buick, Pontiac, GMC or Saturn.)

Buick • GMC

3209 W. LincoLn highWay MerriLLviLLe, in 219.769.6381

neW 2011 cadiLLac

Stk# kC1104 • MSRP $39.440

Stk# kC1104 • MSRP $37,305

Srx

MSRP $28,660

SALE PRICE

neW 2011 cadiLLac

429

ctS

Mo.

39 Month 10k PER yEAR lEASE

389

Mo. 39 Month 10k PER yEAR lEASE

*Ally credit approval required, $1000 down plus 1st payment, tax, title & lic extra. Expires 5/31/2011

Cadillac

2929 W. uS 30 MerriLLviLLe, in 219.738.1900

Just 2 miles west of I-65 on Route 30 in Merrillville!

WWW.SCHEPEL.COM

Shop with the

1st Place

Best Grocery store 1st Place Best Catering 1st Place Best Bakery 1st Place Best Customer Service 1st Place Best Place to Buy Produce 2nd Place Best Place to Buy Meat Visit our web site at www.strackandvantil.com banking • catering • high quality floral creations • quick check-out lanes • free carry-out • food stamps & wic vouchers