Best of the Region 2012 by The Times of NWI

Best Bank The Times

Our business is banking, but along the way, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve adopted a culture of shared values that has supported 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 organization and as a family, the bankâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reputation and commitment to service excellence continues to set us apart as a premier organization. Centier received a number of awards, accolades, and recognition within the past year, including:

Best Place to Work The Times

Best Customer Service The Times

Best Bank Post-Tribune

Best Place to Work Indiana Chamber of Commerce

Centier.com

Member FDIC

For Voting Us

Best Downtown

2009, 2010, 2011 2012

Mayor David Uran

Best PLACE TO LIVE an award winning city all around!

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

2010, 2011, 2012

VOTED

In Three Categories

BEST BY YOU! Kitchen/Bath Remodeling Door & Window Replacement

Flooring Store

Come in & Experience for Yourself Why Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re the Best of the Region!

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

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

commercia DIVISION

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 1

Beauty & Wellness BEST COSMETIC

Table of Contents

SURGERY CENTER 1 Medical Specialists 2 Laser Cosmetic & Aesthetic Center 3 Vein Center of NW Indiana

BEST HAIR SALON 1 Vanis Salon & Day Spa 2 Riah Hair Salon 3 Texture Pointe Salon

BEST HEALTH FOOD STORE 1 Baums Natural Foods 2 Au Natural 3 Nature’s Remedies

BEST HEARING AID CENTER 1 Professional Hearing 2 St. John Hearing Aid Center 3 Community Hospital Audiology

BEST CASINO 1 Horseshoe Casino 2 Four Winds Casino Resort 3 Blue Chip Casino

BEST MARINA 1 Hammond Marina 2 Michigan City Marina 3 St. Joseph Yacht Club

BEST DRIVE-IN 1 Blue Top Drive-In 2 The Port Drive-In 3 Carlson’s Drive-In

BEST MOVIE THEATER 1 AMC Theatres 2 Portage 16 IMAX 3 Cinemark of Valparaiso

BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT 1 Round the Clock 2 Teibel’s 3 Kelsey’s Steakhouse

BEST MUSEUM 1 Museum of Science and Industry 2 Field Museum 3 Chicago Children’s Museum

BEST FINE DINING RESTAURANT (MI) 1 Tabor Hill Restaurant & Winery 2 Bistro on the Boulevard 3 Timothy’s

BEST FINE DINING RESTAURANT (NWI) 1 The Lighthouse 2 Ciao Bella Ristorante 3 Teibel’s Family Restaurant

BEST CASINO DINING 1 Jack Binion’s Steak House Horseshoe Casino 2 The Buffet at Four Winds Casino 3 William B’s Steakhouse at Blue Chip

BEST CASINO POKER 1 Horseshoe 2 Four Winds 3 Blue Chip

BEST CASINO SLOTS 1 Horseshoe 2 Four Winds 3 Blue Chip

BEST CASINO TABLE GAMES 1 Horseshoe 2 Four Winds 3 Blue Chip

BEST COUNTRY CLUB 1 White Hawk Country Club 2 Briar Ridge Country Club 3 The Innsbrook Country Club

BEST SPA 1 Vanis Salon & Day Spa 2 State of Mind 3 Nina’s Salon & Day Spa BEST VISION CARE 1 VisionPoint 2 Levin Eye Care Center 3 Deschamps Eye Care 3 Munster Eye Care

EDITOR’S CHOICE

BEST PLACE TO NOURISH YOUR FACE State of Mind Salon & Day Spa Inspire Salon and Spa

Education & Instruction BEST ADULT

EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION 1 Purdue University Calumet 2 Indiana University Northwest 3 Valparaiso University

BEST COLLEGE/ UNIVERSITY 1 Purdue University Calumet 2 Valparaiso University 3 Purdue University West Lafayette

BEST DANCE SCHOOL 1 Arthur Murray 2 Donna Brum 3 Patti’s All American

EDITOR’S CHOICE

BEST CHILDREN’S GYMNASTICS PROGRAM Patti’s All American

Entertainment

BEST BOWLING ALLEY 1 Stardust Bowl 2 Plaza Lanes 3 Inman’s Recreation Center

16 16

BEST FESTIVAL (NON-LOCAL) 1 Taste of Chicago 2 Marshall County National Blueberry Festival 3 Frankfort Fall Festival

BEST FESTIVAL (NWI) 1 Pierogi Fest 2 Popcorn Festival 3 Lake County Fair

BEST GOLF COURSE 1 White Hawk Country Club 2 Briar Ridge Country Club 3 The Brassie Golf Course

BEST HOTEL (MI) 1 Four Winds Casino Resort 2 JW Marriott 3 Candlewood Suites

BEST HOTEL (NWI) 1 Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza 2 Blue Chip Casino and Hotel 3 Hilton Garden Inn

BEST LIVE ENTERTAINMENT VENUE 1 Star Plaza Theatre 2 The Venue at Horseshoe Casino 3 Porter County Fair

BEST LIVE THEATER 1 Star Plaza Theatre 2 Theatre at the Center 3 Memorial Opera House

BEST PLACE FOR A CHILD’S BIRTHDAY PARTY 1 Deep River Waterpark 2 Bellaboo’s 3 Funflatables

BEST PUBLIC GARDEN, OUTDOOR EXHIBITION 1 Shrine of Christ’s Passion 2 Taltree Arboretum 3 Gardens on the Prairie

Food & Drink

BEST ASIAN FOOD 1 China Buffet 2 Asparagus 3 The China House

BEST BAKERY 1 Butterfingers 2 Strongbow Inn 3 Strack & Van Til

BEST BANQUET FACILITY 1 Avalon Manor Banquet Center 2 Strongbow Inn 3 Halls of St. George

BEST BAR/ LOUNGE 1 Northwoods 2 Houlihan’s 3 T.J. Maloney’s

BEST CATERER 1 Strack & Van Til 2 Popolano’s 3 Butterfingers

BEST CHEF (MI) 1 John Paul Verhage-Tabor Hill Restaurant & Winery 2 Ryan Thornburg-Bistro on the Boulevard 3 Timothy Sizer-Timothy’s and Tim’s Too

BEST CHEF (NWI) 1 Nicole Bissonette - Bistro 157 2 Patrick Sholz - Lucrezia’s 3 Randy Berg - Ciao Bella

BEST COFFEE 1 Dunkin’ Donuts 2 McDonald’s 3 Starbucks

BEST HAMBURGER 1 Schoop’s 2 Culver’s 3 Miner Dunn BEST HOTDOG 1 Boz Hot Dogs 2 Maxwell Street Hot Dogs 3 Corky’s Dogg House

BEST ICE CREAM SHOP 1 Coldstone Creamery 2 Gayety’s 3 Valpo Velvet

BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT 1 Lucrezia’s 2 Giovannis 3 Ciao Bella Ristorante

BEST MEXICAN FOOD 1 El Taco Real 2 El Salto 3 La Quesadilla

BEST MICROBREWERY 1 Three Floyds Brewing Co. 2 Bulldog Brewery 3 New Holland

BEST PIZZA 1 Aurelio’s 2 Gelsosomo’s - Crown Point 3 Beggar’s Pizza

BEST PLACE FOR BREAKFAST 1 Round the Clock 2 Jelly’s Pancake House 3 The Scrambled Diner

BEST PLACE FOR BRUNCH 1 Strongbow Inn 2 Center for Visual & Performing Arts 3 Gino’s Steakhouse

BEST PLACE FOR CHICKEN WINGS 1 Buffalo Wild Wings 2 Hooters 3 Wings Etc

BEST PLACE FOR LUNCH 1 Texas Corral 2 Bon Femme Café 3 Popolano’s BEST PLACE FOR A SANDWICH 1 Jimmy John’s 2 Subway 3 Butterfingers BEST SEAFOOD 1 The Lighthouse Restaurant 2 Teibel’s Family Restaurant 3 Bartlett’s Gourmet Grill BEST SPORTS BAR & GRILL 1 Buddy & Pals Place 2 Amarillo Roadhouse 3 Bridges Scoreboard BEST STEAKHOUSE 1 Kelsey’s Steak & Seafood 2 The Lighthouse 3 Gino’s Steakhouse BEST WINERY 1 Tabor Hill 2 Round Barn Winery 3 White Pine

EDITOR’S CHOICE

BEST POLISH RESTAURANT Warsaw Inn

EDITOR’S CHOICE

BEST SIGNATURE SANDWICHES Good to Go by Lucrezia

Health Care

BEST CARDIOLOGY CARE 1 Community Cardiology Center 2 Franciscan Hammond Clinic 2 Northwest Indiana Cardiovascular Physicians 3 The Heart Institute at Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point

BEST CHIROPRACTOR 1 Kauffman Chiropractic 2 Healthsource 3 Dr. John Kostidis

BEST DENTIST 1 Dyer Family Dentistry 2 Northwest Oral Surgeons 3 Schererville Family Dentistry

BEST HEALTH & FITNESS CLUB 1 Franciscan Omni Health 2 Community Hospital Fitness Pointe 3 Valparaiso Family YMCA

BEST HOSPITAL 1 Community Hospital 2 Franciscan St. Anthony Health -Crown Point 3 Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Dyer, Hammond

BEST PLACE TO LIVE (NWI) 1 Crown Point 2 Valparaiso 3 Munster

BEST HEATING AND COOLING 1 Meye’rs Heating & Cooling 2 Illiana Heating & Cooling 3 Cliff’s Heating and A/C

BEST BRIDAL/ FORMAL WEAR SHOP 1 Dunhill Tuxedos 2 David’s Bridal 3 Elegance

BEST PLACE TO VOLUNTEER 1 Humane Society of NWI 2 United Way 3 Meals on Wheels

BEST HOME BUILDER 1 Olthof Homes 2 McFarland Homes 3 Accent Homes

BEST CARPET/FLOORING STORE 1 Schilling Design Center 2 Von Tobel Lumber & Hardware 3 Park Avenue Floors

BEST PLACE TO WORK 1 Centier Bank 2 Franciscan Alliance Hospitals 3 Citizens Financial Bank

BEST INSURANCE AGENT 1 Barb Gulden 2 Jim Miskovich 3 Connie Bernardi

BEST CONSIGNMENT STORE 1 Once Upon a Child 2 It’s Just Serendipity 3 Hidden Treasures Consignment

BEST KITCHEN/BATH REMODELING 1 Schilling Design Center 2 Von Tobel Lumber & Hardware 3 Auburn Supply Co.

BEST ELECTRONICS 1 Best Buy 2 hhgregg 3 Nason’s Appliance

BEST LANDSCAPER 1 Allen’s Landscape Centre 2 Martin Landscaping 3 R.A.L. Landscaping

BEST FLORIST 1 Dixon’s Florist & Gift Shop 2 Bryan’s Florist 3 Cedar Lake Florist

BEST PLACE FOR AN OIL CHANGE 1 Duke of Oil 2 Oil Express 3 Portage Tire

BEST FURNITURE STORE 1 Indiana Furniture Showcase 2 Ashley Furniture 3 Darvin Furniture

BEST BANK 1 Centier Bank 2 Chase 3 Citizens Financial Bank

BEST PLUMBER 1 St. John Plumbing Service 2 Meyer’s Heating & Cooling 3 TLC Plumbing

BEST GARDEN/NURSERY STORE (MI) 1 Sawyer Home & Garden Center 2 Groundworkes 3 Green Wellies Garden Shop

BEST CAR REPAIR SHOP 1 Levin Tire 2 Crown Point Auto Repair 3 Heinold & Feller Tire Co.

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT (MI) 1 Sharon Halliburton 2 Louis Price 3 Jay DeBruyn

BEST GARDEN/NURSERY STORE (NWI) 1 Alsip Home & Nursery 2 Allen Landscape Centre 3 Dean’s Landscaping

EDITOR’S CHOICE

BEST CAR WASH 1 Soft Touch 2 Drive & Shine 3 Easy Clean

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT (NWI) 1 Lisa Thompson 2 Brian Rossi 3 Jana Caudill

BEST GIFT BOUTIQUE 1 Maria’s Hallmark 2 It’s Just Serendipity 3 Brumm’s Bloomin’ Barn

Living

BEST RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE CO 1 Coldwell Banker 2 McColly 3 Rossi & Taylor Real Estate Group

BEST GROCERY STORE 1 Strack & Van Til 2 Meijer 3 Wiseway

BEST HOME DECOR STORE 1 Bed Bath & Beyond 2 Louise’s Hallmark 3 Mary and Martha

BEST HOME DECOR STORE (MI) 1 HarborTown Interiors 2 Sawyer Home & Garden Center 3 Customs Imports

BEST ORTHOPEDIC PRACTICE 1 Lakeshore Bone and Joint 2 Orthopaedic Specialists of NWI 3 Franciscan St. Anthony SMI Sports Medicine Institute BEST PAIN MANAGEMENT 1 Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists 2 Community Spine & Neurosurgery Institute 3 Pinnacle Hospital

BEST PEDIATRIC CARE 1 Kids First Pediatrics 2 Franciscan St. Anthony Health Michigan City 2 Community Hospital

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY 1 HealthSource 2 LakeShore Bone and Joint 3 Community Hospital

BEST SPINE CARE 1 Spine Care Specialists 2 Community Hospital 3 Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists

BEST URGENT CARE 1 Franciscan Hammond Clinic 2 Community Hospital 3 Franciscan ExpressCare

BEST WOMEN’S HEALTH 1 Community Hospital’s Women’s Diagnostic Center 2 Franciscan St. Margaret Health 3 Franciscan St. Anthony Health Crown Point

FEEL GOOD DOCTORS FOR YOUR FEET Friendly Foot Care

BEST DOWNTOWN (IL) 1 Chicago 2 Lansing 3 Hegewisch/Burnham

BEST PLACE TO WORSHIP 1 St. Mary Catholic Church 2 St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church 3 Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church

BEST RETIREMENT/ ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY 1 Hartsfield Village 2 St. Anthony Home - Franciscan Communities 3 Brentwood at LaPorte

Services

BEST CHILDCARE CENTER 1 Child Enrichment Center of Schererville 2 Wonder Years Learning Center 3 Happy Days Childcare & Learning Center

BEST DOWNTOWN (MI) 1 New Buffalo 2 St. Joseph 3 Saugatuck/Douglas

BEST DOWNTOWN (NWI) 1 Crown Point 2 Valparaiso 3 Whiting

BEST PLACE TO LIVE (IL) 1 Chicago 2 Beecher 3 Hegewisch/Burnham

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR 1 Wells Fargo 2 Oak Partners 3 Horizon Bank

BEST PLACE TO LIVE (MI) 1 New Buffalo 2 St. Joseph 3 Saugatuck/Douglas

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE 1 Strack & Van Til 2 Centier Bank 3 Citizens Financial BEST DOOR & WINDOW REPLACEMENT 1 Schilling Design Center 2 Fred C. Doppler & Sons 3 Schererville Glass & Mirrors BEST ELECTRICIAN 1 Cedar Electric 2 All Services Electric 3 D and K Electric Ltd.

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

BEST ROOFER 1 M&M Home Remodeling 2 Rogers Roofing BEST VETERINARIAN 1 Munster Animal Hospital 2 Community Pet Hospital 3 Barden’s Animal Clinic

Shopping

BEST ANTIQUE SHOP 1 It’s Just Serendipity 2 Tish’s Antiques 3 Key To Estate Treasures BEST APPLIANCE STORE 1 Maruszczak Appliance 2 Grant’s Appliances, Electronics 3 Nason’s Appliance

BEST JEWELRY STORE 1 Albert’s Diamond Jewelers 2 Martin Binder 3 Highland Jewelers BEST LIQUOR STORE 1 Nick’s Liquors 2 Wise Guys Liquors 3 Delock’s Discount Liquors BEST MATTRESS STORE 1 Bedding Experts 2 Indiana Furniture 3 Lynn’s Bedroom City BEST MEN’S CLOTHING STORE 1 JCPenney 2 David’s Mens Clothier 3 Kohl’s BEST NEW CAR DEALER 1 Smith Auto Group 2 Schepel Auto Group 3 Mike Anderson Chevrolet BEST PET SHOP 1 PETCO 2 Pet Supplies Plus 3 Alsip Nursery BEST PLACE TO BUY MEAT & POULTRY 1 Welch’s Stop and Shop 2 Strack & Van Til 3 Doug Komo’s Meat and Deli BEST PLACE TO BUY PRODUCE 1 Strack & Van Til 2 Meijer 3 Jewel BEST PLACE TO BUY WINE (MI) 1 Tabor Hill 2 Round Barn Winery 3 White Pine BEST PLACE TO BUY WINE (NWI) 1 WiseGuys Liquors 2 St. John Wine & Spirits 3 Nick’s Liquors BEST SHOE STORE 1 Shoe Carnival 2 Barney’s Hub Bootery 3 Famous Footwear

BEST HOME IMPROVEMENT STORE 1 Menards 2 Home Depot 3 Von Tobel Lumber & Hardware BEST HUNTING/FISHING/ OUTDOOR STORE 1 Bass Pro Shops 2 Cabela’s 3 Blythe’s Sports & Gun Shop

BEST TIRE STORE 1 Levin Tire 2 Discount Tire 3 Heinold Feller Tire Co.

1 2 3 3

BEST USED CAR DEALER Smith Auto Group Schepel Auto Group Mike Anderson Chevrolet Christenson Chevrolet

BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE 1 Hunch Furs 2 Amy Laurie’s Eclectic Boutique 3 Ms. Elle’s Especially For You

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 3

Letter from the Publisher

f you want to know don’t hesitate to ask, I have usually have a position on what I think is the best. (Well, except when it comes to music, an area where I pretty much like everything and I have never been able to decide.) So when I learned that we had set an all-time record with this year’s Best of balloting at 213,694 votes in almost 130 categories, I was understandably curious. Not only has this contest grown more competitive each year, it has taken on importance for our top businesses – both national and local – to measure the success of their brands. Would the vote be a true test of what is really the best in our Lake Michigan regional area? With so many platforms and devices out there, with so many distractingly fun things to do – news 24/7 on nwi.com mobile app is my top choice, but I’ve also been known to inhabit Facebook especially when my kids are posting – would our readers participate and step-up for our local businesses? For the most part over the past three years of this competition that is in its 18th season, we seem to have completely adjusted to not having to fill out slips of paper. (Although we did take paper ballots from our retirement communities who wanted to participate but couldn’t any other way.) We also coordinated to streamline the voting process for busy parents who wanted to support the pre-schools and daycare centers where their children start learning and socializing away from home. You may have noticed there have been some changes in this year’s contest: More than 50 categories have been added, many in the growing area of health care in targeted categories like urgent care, spine injuries, heart disease and pain management. And we have divided the best place to live contest by state, to accommodate lifestyles and age groups of all our Shore and Times Media readers. Due to lack of interest on the part of readers and to keep the ballot at decent length we have eliminated businesses or categories. There has been push back, this year from tattoo parlors and DJs. We will be revisiting those two topics and the whole ballot again next year. So if you see that one of your favorites is overlooked, let us know by commenting on this letter or bring it to our attention on our nwi.com Facebook page. Lots of winners reminded their friends and fans to get online and vote through social networks including the Towle Theater in Hammond and a certain well-known chef in downtown Valparaiso. Right now I want to congratulate our top 20 vote getters: 1. Dunkin’ Donuts, 2. Schoops, 3. Three Floyds Brewery, 4. City of Chicago, 5. Strack & Van Til, 6. Stardust, 7. Buffalo Wild Wings, 8. Museum of Science and Industry, 9. City of Crown Point, 10. Purdue Calumet, 11. Radisson Merrillville, 12. Best Buy, 13. AMC, 14. Coldstone Creamery, 15. Blue Top Drive-In, Highland, 16. Taste of Chicago, 17. Centier, 18. Butterfinger’s Bakery, 19. El Taco Real and 20. Community Hospital. Really every single business that placed in the top three is truly a winner, this contest was intense. And thanks to all of our readers for taking the time to vote and support your favorites. You are the best!

Bill Masterson, Jr. Publisher

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One of the Best Places to Work in Indiana - Indiana Chamber of Commerce

One of the Best Banks in the Region One of the Best for Customer Service One of the Best Places to Work - The Times, Best of Region

Best Bank for Obtaining a Business Loan One of the Best Banks for Business One of the Best Banks for Customer Service One of the Best Companies to Work For - Northwest Indiana Business Quarterly

Top Workplace 2010 and 2011 - Chicago Tribune

mybankcitizens.com

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 5

Beauty & Wellness

[ best ] COSMETIC SURGERY CENTER Medical Specialists 761 45th St Munster, Ind. 219.961.5917

919 Main St, Suite 201 Dyer, Ind. 219.934.2495 1101 Glendale Rd, Suite 110 Valparaiso, Ind. 219.477.6828 300 W 80th Pl Merrillville, Ind. 219.736.1400 medspecindiana.com

he Medical Specialists Department of Dermatology is a full-service dermatology practice with board certified dermatologists and physician assistants. Highly-skilled experts focus on general dermatology, cosmetic dermatology and dermatological surgery. With the full range of skin care concerns covered all at one practice, patients appreciate the added convenience and more comprehensive care. Patients receive effective, less invasive procedures in a medically supervised, state-ofthe-art environment. Services include management of skin disorders, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, Botox, laser hair removal, skin cancer surgery, collagen injections and more. “With exceptional doctors helping you, we provide elite dermatology care close to home.”

SECOND PLACE

Laser Cosmetic & Aesthetic Center 210 East 86th Pl Merrillville, Ind. 219.795.1255 cosmedicclinic.com

Vein Center of NW Indiana 1000 E 80th Pl, #308 Merrillville, Ind. 312.643.5193 veinandcosmetics.com

[ best ]

HAIR SALON Vanis Salon & Day Spa

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

THIRD PLACE

ince first opening its doors back in 1985, the evolution of Vanis Salon & Day Spa is truly a remarkable one. “We started with just three employees and a desire to find other people with the same skill set and passion as we did,” recalls owner Chris Valavanis. “Now, with three salons and 120 employees, our growth has just been so far beyond anything I could have SECOND PLACE expected.” Known for Riah Hair Salon being on the forefront 8025 Wicker Ave of technique and St. John, Ind. 219.365.6123 fashion, countless riahsalon.com customers continue to come back to Vanis THIRD PLACE Salon & Day Spa for Texture Pointe all of their hair and Salon nail care. “Our clients 2062 45th St are always our main Highland, Ind. focus,” concludes 219.924.4656 Valavanis. texturepointesalon.com

We are your healthy skin specialists.

Thank you for voting us one of the best Cosmetic Surgery Centers!

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

nO SuRgeRy. nO DOwnTIMe. nO VARICOSe VeInS.

AND SO DO YOU!

Medical Specialists Department of Dermatology & Cosmetics Dyer | Schererville | 219-934-2495

www.MedSpecIndiana.com

Guaranteed consultation WITHIN 10 DAYS!

• Board Certified, highly specialized physicians • Insurance covers most procedures • Minimally-Invasive, Outpatient Procedures • Virtually pain-free • Fast, easy recovery • Beautiful results guaranteed! Over 4,000 procedures in the past 4 years.

Call 877.834.6694

Amjad Alkadri, MD

Interventional Radiologist & Vein Specialist

1000 E. 80th Place | Merrillville LaPorte | Highland www.VeinAndCosmetics.com

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 7

Beauty & Wellness EDITOR’S CHOICE

Aimee and Carol at Baums

[ best ]

PLACE TO NOURISH YOUR FACE

[ best ] HEALTH FOOD STORE Baums Natural Foods

407 W. 81st Ave Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.3140 1864 45th St. Munster, Ind. 219.922.1050 9486 Wicker Ave. St. John, Ind. 219.558.8780 baumsnaturalfoods.com

n our never ending quest to lead a healthier life, many of Northwest Indiana’s residents have come to trust the knowledgeable staff at Baums Natural Foods. With locations in Munster, St. John and Merrillville, Baums Natural Foods offers everything from vitamins to energy products to their very own Ion Cleanse Detox Foot Bath. “Our highly trained staff is dedicated to providing our customers the knowledge they need to help choose the products that will work best within their lifestyle,” explains Leslie Goodman, Promotions Manager at Baums Natural Foods. “We are dedicated to helping you solve your health issues with a holistic, natural approach.”

SECOND PLACE

Au Naturel 1708 Lincolnway Valparaiso, Ind. 219.465.1984

THIRD PLACE

Nature’s Remedies 2812 Calumet Ave. Valparaiso, Ind. 219.477.5566 naturesremedieshealth.com 8 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

111 W 94th Pl Crown Point, Ind. 219.663.7317 stateofmindspa.com

Inspire Salon and Spa

225 Aberdeen Dr, Ste. 2B Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.1772 inspire-salon-spa.com

Skincare is changing at lightning speed, and like any profession, it’s important to stay on top of what’s available and how it works. This includes products as well as treatments including facials, peels and microdermabrasion. At State of Mind Salon & Day Spa in Crown Point, highlytrained licensed estheticians have been helping clients maintain and improve the appearance of their skin for more than a decade. State of Mind’s signature facial services begin with an application of mud on the feet to relax, detoxify and nourish. As the serenity of the spa embraces you, an esthetician performs a thorough skin analysis in order to choose the best facial treatment that will help you meet your goals. “Offering the more clinical skin correction is what sets us apart from our competition,” Lori Glines, who has been with State of Mind for over 9 years, says. “We specialize in minimizing fine lines and wrinkles as well as treating more problematic skin like acne and acne scaring. That’s where you get the results from special treatments including vitamin C or acne facials, banana or glycolic peels and microdermabrasion. Consumers are smart, they want results. They want to see and feel a difference.” For those new to skincare and pampering who may be unsure of their skin type or simply not satisfied with their current home skincare regimen, the professionals at State of Mind are especially helpful by offering a complimentary skin analysis, making it much easier to determine the best options for your skin. “Because we offer such a unique experience, our client list has grown over the years to include a substantial following from northwest Indiana as well as Chicago,” Pattie Kobe, who opened State of Mind along with her husband and business partner Tony in 1999, says. “In order to accommodate our guests that need evenings and weekends, we started staying open 7 days a week about 7 years ago. “Coming up we are planning a special acne care workshop for teens and adults as well as a how-to style your hair boot camp where we’ll be showing guests how to get the best results with the tools they have at home, we want them to actually bring everything they’re using at home, and that’s what we’ll be working with,” she says. A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

photo courtesy of BAUMS NATURAL FOODS

State of Mind Salon & Day Spa

M E D I A

C O M P A N Y

M E D I A

C O M P A N Y

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 9

Beauty & Wellness [ best ] HEARING AID CENTER Professional Hearing

2601 Beech St Valparaiso, Ind. 219.464.9580 prohearingmgmt.com Professional Hearing Management has 30 years’ experience in providing patients hearing systems with the latest in design and function features — with a 100 percent guarantee on all services and products. And just as important, patients are confident in the highly trained audiologists and staff. “Each staff member is committed to the relentless pursuit of unsurpassed patient satisfaction,” says Audiologist Dr. Nancy Dickey. The caring staff understands how improving hearing also improves quality of life, so expertise in testing and diagnosis is essential. “At Professional Hearing Management, our patients count on hearing and balance care they will not find anywhere else,” says Dickey.

SECOND PLACE

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

THIRD PLACE

Community Hospital Audiology

901 MacArthur Blvd Munster, Ind. 219.836.1600 comhs.org

n an effort to provide a more ‘complete environment’ to his growing list of clients, Vanis Salon owner Chris Vanis Salon Valavanis added spa & Day Spa services to his already 107 N Main St, Suite A successful salon back in Crown Point, Ind. 219.663.5200 1992...and hasn’t looked back ever since. Providing 221 US Route 41, Suite J a variety of spa packages Schererville, Ind. and treatments, Valavanis 219.322.5600 and his talented team pride themselves in being on the 1620 Country Club Rd, cutting edge when it comes Suite A to new and exciting spa Valparaiso, Ind. services. “The spa industry 219.465.6414 as a whole is constantly vanis.net evolving,” explains Valavanis. “While our salon is mostly fashion driven, our spa is more technology driven. When it comes to skin and body services, we want to make sure we are providing our clients the very best.”

[ best ] SPA

SECOND PLACE

State of Mind Salon & Day Spa

111 W 94th Pl Crown Point, Ind. 219.663.7317 stateofmindspa.com

THIRD PLACE

Nina’s Salon & Day Spa

11123 W 93rd Ave St. John, Ind. 219.558.2223 ninassalonanddayspa.com

[ best ]

VISION CARE

VisionPoint

Multiple locations . visionpointnwi.com

ith VisionPoint’s independent eye doctors offering eye exams in several locally owned locations in Northern Indiana, people needing vision care can have both convenience and choice. Most customers can get eyeglasses the same or next day. And customers with a prescription can come right in — no appointment necessary. “Our aim is to have a large variety of frame brands that are not always SECOND PLACE available in the Levin Eye large national Care Center retail chain 1334 119th St. stores,” says Jen Whiting, Ind. Ebersberger, 219.659.3050 Director of levineyecare.com Finance. Locally owned THIRD PLACE - TIE and operated, Deschamps Eye Care “We can build 8510 Broadway Merrillville, Ind. the inventories 219.736.2200 at our five deschampeseyecare.com locations based on the needs of Munster Eye Care our customers 761 45th St. instead of being Munster, Ind. based on generic 219.922.6226 statistics.” munstereyecare.com

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39 Years of serViCe 2010 Best of the Region Eye Doctor

photography [opposite page] by TONY V. MARTIN

* 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 CO.

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

Evan Hapner O.D.

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 11

Education & Instruction

[ best ] ADULT EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION Purdue University Calumet

2200 169th St . Hammond, Ind. 219.989.2400 . purduecal.edu

ontraditional students - those older than 25 years of age at the start of their college careers - comprise 35 percent of Purdue University Calumet’s enrollment of 9,786. “This group is a large staple of what we do as a regional university,” says Wes Lukoshus, assistant vice chancellor for advancement at the Hammond-based campus. “These students are juggling other life priorities while they are attending classes, including work and family. They are organized and focused.” The economy has played a role in the return of adult students to Purdue Calumet, he says. Some have been laid off. Others are redirecting their current careers.

SECOND PLACE

Indiana University Northwest 3400 Broadway Gary, Ind. 219.980.6991 iun.edu

THIRD PLACE

Valparaiso University

1700 Chapel Dr Valparaiso, Ind. 219.464.5000 valpo.edu

[ best ]

COLLEGE/ UNIVERSITY Purdue University Calumet 2200 169th St . Hammond, Ind. 219.989.2400 . purduecal.edu

ounded in 1949, Purdue University Calumet offers more than 100 academic programs that lead to associate, baccalaureate and master’s degree plus professional certificates. Recently Purdue Calumet announced its latest master’s degree in modeling, simulation and visualization. The regional university provides an internationally

EDITOR’S CHOICE

[ best ]

CHILDREN’S GYMNASTICS PROGRAM Patti’s All American Much can be said of the benefits of participation in a team support. Yet, there is nothing quite like the feeling of knowing you achieved something all...by... yourself. “Gymnastics in particular show children just what they can accomplish all by themselves,” explains Patti’s All American President Patti Komara. “There is nothing like the victory that a child feels when they can finally do their back hand spring for example without their teacher’s help. It’s an undeniable feeling of pure accomplishment.” For over 43 years, Patti’s All American has strived to not only teach lessons in a fun and safe environment, but also help to raise the child’s self esteem through everything from gymnastics to tumbling to swimming. Through the years, the facility has grown to encompass six different schools, including the Tumblebear Gym, School-Age Champion Gymnastics, The Dance Connection, The Swim Connection, Gym-N-Learn

respected education distinguished by experiential learning. Each candidate for a bachelor’s degree must complete two courses that are part SECOND of the university’s PLACE innovative, Valparaiso experiential learning University initiative. These 1700 Chapel Dr might include Valparaiso, Ind. internships, studying 219.464.5000 aboard, research valpo.edu with a professor or a THIRD senior design project. PLACE This integration Purdue of traditional and applied learning in University real-world situations West prepares Purdue Lafayette Calumet graduates West Lafayette, Ind. for careers and 765.494.4600 purdue.edu advanced studies.

Educational Preschool and Karate. “We send out evaluations three times a year, and everyone is always telling us that they wish we could grow even more,” chuckles Komara. “So while we might not be able to grow in square footage, we constantly challenge ourselves to continue to grow in both our teaching levels and our professionalism. No matter if it’s the person working at the front desk or the teacher instructing down on the floor, it’s always been about exceeding what we did before.” From the in-ground, heated pool to their Olympic style spring floor, Patti’s All-American is known for having the latest and greatest equipment around. Pairing this with a staff of talented and experienced teachers has made the facility one of the best known and most loved facilities in Northwest Indiana. “I specifically hire teachers who are going to go out of their way to make the children feel love and accepted, no matter what,” says Komara, whose facility also offers gymnastics birthday parties on Saturday and Sundays after classes. “They work with each and every child to make sure they feel fit and strong within a fun and safe environment.” With a variety of offerings for the child just beginning to walk through the eighteen year old ready to tackle the world, Komara says witnessing the success of Patti’s All American has been something not only gratifying, but also extremely rewarding. “I just recently had a staff meeting, and I can’t tell you what it felt to look at the people gathered there and know that they have been alongside me in this venture for so long,” recalls Komara. “I am proud of not only what we have been able to achieve, but the achievements of each and every one of our students.”

Learn to Dance

[ best ]

DANCE SCHOOL Arthur Murray® Dance Studios 1205 W Lincoln Hwy Merrillville, Ind. 219.738.9041 arthurmurray.com

This year, Arthur Murray is celebrating 100 years of teaching the world to dance, with dance studios currently open in over 22 countries around the globe. The Merrillville location, which has received numerous awards from Arthur Murray International — including the coveted Studio of the Year Award - has been serving the residents of Northwest Indiana for 32 years. “We are very excited to have won

Couples and Singles Welcome • Private and Group Instructions

Best of the Region for the fourth year in a row — kudos to our staff, Kenneth Kollasch and Katie Diaz as well as Georgette Gibbs to name a few!” owners Anthony and Julie Coberg says. “We want everyone to know that both singles and couples are welcome, and we have students ranging in age from 15 to 80.”

SECOND PLACE

ial $35 Specw!! Call No

1205 W. Lincoln Hwy. • Merrillville, IN

Voted as best in region 3 years in a row Lake County

219-738-9041

Porter County

800-657-3322

www.arthurmurrays.com

Donna Brum School of Dance 2334 Cline Ave Schererville, Ind. 219.865.9850 donnabrumdancers.com

THIRD PLACE

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

For 43 years we have been providing technical training through dance education.

Home of DANZELITE & Hip Hop K’Nektionz Competition Teams

Ballet • Pointe • Tap • Jazz • Hip Hop • Modern/Lyrical Turns & Leaps • Tumbling • Funk Tap • Jazz Pom Directors: Donna Brum & Tracie Borowy

Registration Dates: August 14 & 15, 4pm - 7pm Schererville, Indiana

2334 S. Cline Ave. • Schererville (South of VonTobel Lumber) www.donnabrumdancers.com • (219) 865-9850

photo [opposite page] courtesy of PATTI’S ALL AMERICAN

LEARNING BROUGHT TO LIFE - ONLINE!

Local n Affordable n Flexible

Experience Academic Distinction.

Purdue Calumet offers a world class Purdue education in 80+ fields of baccalaureate and graduate level study. Through distinctive experiential learning, students apply what they have learned in real world environments, gain valuable experience, and build impressive resumes!

iun.edu/online A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Apply now for the Summer and Fall semesters! Visit purduecal.edu/admissions for more information. An equal access, equal opportunity, affirmative action employer that is committed to a diverse workplace

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 13

Stardust Bowl 3925 E Lincoln Hwy Merrillville, Ind. 219.942.0432 1330 Sheffield Ave Dyer, Ind. 219. 322.3666 bowlstardust.com

owlers of all ages can find something up their alley at Stardust Bowl. Both locations offer open bowling, leagues and tournaments. The Merrillville Stardust also features 20 billiards tables, while the Dyer Stardust features a giant game room with ticket prizes and birthday party rooms geared toward kids. Both locations serve food. “I think that we’re a familiar place for residents of the area,” Dan Barton, general manager of the Merrillville location, says. “The Stardust name has been around for more than 40 years. I think that if you continue providing a good quality product, people are going to come back. We provide a good product with good customer service and make people leave with a smile.”

SECOND PLACE

Plaza Lanes 8101 Kennedy Ave Highland, Ind. 219.923.3800 plazafunbowl.com

THIRD PLACE

Inman’s Recreation Center 3201 Evans Ave Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.1300 inmansvalpo.com

[ best ]

CASINO

Horseshoe Casino

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

Located just 20 minutes from downtown Chicago on the shores of Lake Michigan, Horseshoe Casino is the Midwest’s premier entertainment and gambling destination with more than 350,000 square feet of casino floor featuring over 3,000 slot machines, over 100 world-class table games, the largest poker room in the Midwest and Le Cheng, a sophisticated Asian gaming room. Once again, Horseshoe Casino is honored to be named “Best of the Region” in all five Casino categories, including Best Casino, Best Casino Dining, Best Casino Poker, Best Casino Slots and Best Casino Table Gables. The Venue at Horseshoe Casino is also a “Best of the Region” selection for Best Live Entertainment Venue. “We are honored by the recognition we have received. We always strive to provide an outstanding, entertaining experience for our guests,” Dan Nita, Horseshoe senior vice president and general manager, says. “We have 2,300 employees who thrive on delivering great customer service.”

[ best ] CASINO DINING Jack Binion’s Steak House Horseshoe Casino opentable.com horseshoehammond.com

Horseshoe Casino Restaurant Manager Anthony Walker says Jack Binion’s is a local favorite first for the service.

SECOND PLACE

THIRD PLACE

Four Winds Casino Resort 11111 Wilson Rd New Buffalo, Mich. 866.4WINDS1 or 866.494.6371 fourwindscasino.com

“Our servers give customers a memorable experience that makes them want to come back,” Walker says. “The quality of our food and our portion sizes and a little gambling doesn’t hurt.” Walkers noted the fabulous panoramic view of Lake Michigan, the Chicago skyline and the Hammond marina. Jack Binion’s is open daily for dinner, specializing in steaks and seafood. Jack Binion’s has magnificent cuts and house specialties served with impeccable presentation, Walker says.

Blue Chip Casino

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

An abundant array of decadent desserts created by the classically trained pastry chef includes pound cake sprinkled with fresh berries, ultra-rich cheesecake and the signature key lime pie.

SECOND PLACE

The Buffet at Four Winds Casino fourwindscasino.com

THIRD PLACE

William B’s Steakhouse at Blue Chip Casino bluechipcasino.com

photography courtesy of HORSESHOE CASINO

Entertainment

[ best ] BOWLING ALLEY

[ best ] CASINO POKER

Casino with the single largest poker room in the Midwest,” Jennifer Galle, Vice President of Marketing, says. “Poker enthusiasts flock to our property because of our extensive poker offerings and our association with the World Series of Porker and the Chicago Poker Classic.” The Horseshoe Casino poker room features a spacious layout with 34 tables. Bennie’s Back Room is a private poker area named for the founder of the original Horseshoe Casino in downtown Las Vegas - Bennie Binion.

SECOND PLACE

[ best ] [ best ] CASINO SLOTS CASINO TABLE GAMES Horseshoe Casino horseshoehammond.com

“Guests will find unparalleled slot play with a wide selection of new games that range from one penny to $1,000,” Director of Operations Michael Montgomery says. We offer more than 3,000 machines on the floor including 1,500 penny slots in the area, providing play that will suit anyone’s taste.” The High Limit Slot Room has 125 machines in denominations from one dollar up to $1,000.

Horseshoe Casino horseshoehammond.com

“We are extremely proud of our diverse table game offerings, with more than 100 tables available for play,” Mitzie Slavicek, Director of Table Games, says. “We offer some of the biggest limits and attract guests from all over the United States and around the world.” Horseshoe Casino’s table games include Craps, Blackjack, Roulette, Baccarat and Le Cheung.

SECOND PLACE

fourwindscasino.com

Four Winds Casino

horseshoehammond.com

THIRD PLACE

“We offer top-notch play at Horseshoe

bluechipcasino.com

Horseshoe Casino

fourwindscasino.com

Blue Chip Casino

Four Winds Casino Blue Chip Casino

Number One Since Day One A legendary city like Chicago deserves a legendary casino. For 60 years, we’ve been the true gambler’s casino offering the best odds, highest limits and biggest jackpots. Now, because of guests like you, we’ve been voted the Best Casino, Best Casino Dining, Best Casino Poker, Best Slots and Best Casino Table Games by Northwest Indiana Times readers. So we just wanted to say thanks and invite you to experience for yourself why we’ve been number one since day one.

V5_72367.1_9.89x4.95_4c_Ad.indd 1 OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. A SPECIAL PUBLICATION

5/2/12 11:32 may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | AM 15

Entertainment [ best ] FESTIVAL (NON-LOCAL)

Taste of Chicago

COUNTRY CLUB White Hawk Country Club

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

eneral Manager Andy Soley says members are drawn to White Hawk Country Club because it is one of the best facilities in Northwest Indiana and has the finest two golf courses. “Even though we are open to the general public, we make our membership feel that this is their home - giving the same feeling as a totally private club,” Soley says. There is a private members’ lounge. White Hawk Country Club, with Northwest Indiana’s only 36-hole championship course, opened for play with 120 new GPSequipped carts April 4. Grand opening for the remodeled clubhouse bar and dining room is May 5. White Hawk Country Club has multiple membership options. The golf shop, staffed by two golf professionals, carries the latest fashions and equipment and gift items for men and women. White Hawk offers full service banquet facilities for golf outings, weddings, corporate meetings or any other special event.

SECOND PLACE Briar Ridge Country Club

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

THIRD PLACE Innsbrook Country Club

6701 Taft St Merrillville, Ind. 219.980.9060 innsbrookcc.com

Touted as the world’s largest food festival, the Taste of Chicago showcases the diversity of Chicago’s dining community. More than 2.5 million visitors come to stroll through blocks of food vendors and choose from “taste” size portions to complete meals. This outdoor fest, which began in the summer of 1980, includes music and family activities on the city’s lakefront. It is the second largest tourist attraction in the state of Illinois and Chicago’s largest festival.

SECOND PLACE

Marshall County National Blueberry Festival Aug. 31—Sept. 3, 2012 Plymouth, Ind. blueberryfestival.org

THIRD PLACE

Frankfort Fall Festival

Sept. 1—3, 2012 Frankfort, Ill. frankfortfallfestival.info

[ best ] FESTIVAL NW INDIANA Pierogi Fest Whiting, Ind. pierogifest.com

his year marks the 18th annual Pierogi Fest and the weekend of July 27, 28, and 29, thousands will again flock to the streets of Whiting to eat, laugh, and have fun in the summer sun. Sarah Hildebranski, executive director of the Whiting-Robertsdale Chamber of Commerce, says you don’t have to like pierogis to come to the festival, but you do want to come expecting to have a great time. “The past two years we’ve had

more food vendors at the Pierogi Fest than at the Taste of Chicago. Food is the big draw, but also the atmosphere. The parade on Friday night is a huge hit and you’ll never find anything crazier. We have characters, people who dress up like pierogis, songs, and it’s a festival that is unlike any others. All types of entertainment take place through all three days on four stages; we have a kids’ corner with a bounce house, rides, and games; the beer garden is a huge draw; we have international dancers; and our contests, the pierogi toss and pierogi eating contest. There’s something for everyone,” says Hildebranski.

SECOND PLACE

Popcorn Festival Valparaiso, Ind. valparaisoevents.com

THIRD PLACE

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

photo [this page, top, left] by JOHN J. WATKINS | THE TIMES, [top right] by KYLE TELECHAN; [opposite page] by JON L. HENDRICKS | THE TIMES

[ best ]

July 11—15, 2012 Grant Park Chicago, Ill. tasteofchicago.us

[ best ] GOLF COURSE

[ best ] HOTEL

White Hawk Country Club

Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza

1001 White Hawk Dr Crown Point, Ind. 219.661.1300 whitehawkcountryclub.com General Manager and PGA Golf Professional Andy Soley says White Hawk Country Club’s course design and layout give golfers different views on every nine holes of the 36-hole championship course. Each is esthetically beautiful and player friendly, Suley says. White Hawk opened for play with 120 new GPS-equipped carts April 4, with the newly remodeled clubhouse bar and dining facility grand opening May 5. “The new ownership is dedicated to bringing it back to the premiere facility it once was and to have it the top condition golf course in this area is our mission, Soley says. The 7,300, par-72 golf course is ranked as one of Indiana’s ten most difficult courses. It is carved out of 250 acres of woods, prairies, creeks and wetlands.

SECOND PLACE

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

THIRD PLACE

The Brassie Golf Course 310 Pearson Rd Chesterton, Ind. 219.921.1192 thebrassie.com

NW INDIANA

800 East Lincoln Hwy Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.6311 radisson.com/merrillvillehotelin-46410/merrillv The ultimate destination for an overnight stay in Northwest Indiana, the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza welcomes you with a

beautiful atrium complete with signature indoor pool featuring a waterfall and private cabanas which make a unique setting for intimate gatherings. There’s also an outdoor courtyard with a pool. “We pride ourselves here at the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza on exceeding the expectations of our clients with the highest standards of outstanding service,” Deann Patena, director of sales and marketing, says. “We also have an exceptional facility that’s a fun destination for the local community as well as a one-tank trip for our neighboring lakeshore communities.” Gearing up for summer, the

Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza is finalizing plans for special Dunes, Deep River Water Park and Golf packages.

SECOND PLACE

Blue Chip Casino and Hotel

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 ]

HOTEL MICHIGAN

Four Winds Casino Resort

11111 Wilson Rd . New Buffalo, Mich. 866.4WINDS1 . fourwindscasino.com

our Winds hotel in New Buffalo, Michigan, offers 165 luxury rooms, suites and celebrity suites all with impeccable guest service. Expect the very best in elegant décor and accommodations, exciting cuisine, lively entertainment and nightlife. Suites include whirlpool tubs and all rooms feature fantastic nature views. Entertainment is steps away and fantastic dining, such as the Copper Rock Steakhouse and The Buffet which offers hand carved meats like roasted turkey and ham, enhanced seafood buffet on select days, weekend brunch featuring madeto-order omelet stations, and dessert station with hand dipped gelato. Plus there is the Martini Bar, Sports Bar, and Stage Bar. Kids Quest is a supervised children’s entertainment facility with hourly child care services for children 6 weeks to 12 years old and is the ultimate activity center.

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

SECOND PLACE

THIRD PLACE

235 Louis Campau St, NW Grand Rapids, Mich. 888.844.5947 ilovethejw.com

2567 Marquette Woods Rd Stevensville, Mich. 269.428.4400 candlewoodsuites.com

JW Marriott

Candlewood Suites

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 17

Entertainment [ best ]

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT VENUE Star Plaza Theatre The 3,400-seat Star Plaza Theatre has featured world class entertainment since 1979. As one of the most active indoor concert venues in the country, Star Plaza Theatre’s dedication to the concept of being a total entertainment facility has made it a favorite among concert goers and performers alike. “We are honored that the public recognizes us and supports us,” Charlie Blum, president and CEO of the Star Plaza Theatre for the last 23

8001 Delaware Pl . Merrillville, Ind. . 219.769.6311 . starplazatheatre.com years, says. “We hope to keep it going for another 33+.” From the gala grand opening when Disco Queen, Donna Summer wowed guests to last month’s debut of famed Coach Bob Knight, Star Plaza Theatre

SECOND PLACE

The Venue at Horseshoe Casino

has welcomed everyone from Tony Bennett to Christina Aguliera to Reo Speedwagon to Sesame Street Live, offering something for everyone in the family, in an intimate, up close concert experience.

THIRD PLACE

Porter County Fair

777 Casino Center Dr Hammond, Ind. 219.473.6060 horseshoehammond.com

215 Division Rd Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.0321 portercofair.org

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Go beyond our monthly magazine with Shorelines, our free weekly e-newsletter! Plan your weekend events, read exclusive articles, receive party invitations and more. Sign up at visitshoremagazine.com

entertainment & style videos | blogs | photo store daily calendar of events extended/exclusive stories

visitshoremagazine.com 18 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

photo [this page] courtesy of STAR PRODUCTIONS AND WTTW, [opposite page] by JIM BIS | THE TIMES

The quartet “Under the Streetlamp”

[ best ] LIVE THEATRE Star Plaza Theatre 8001 Delaware Pl Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.6311 starplazatheatre.com

As of just a few years ago, Star Productions has taken on producing full-scale regional theater productions of “High School Musical,” “High School Musical 2,” “Chicago,” “Annie,” and most recently, last year’s presentation of “Hairspray.” “We always strive to provide A+ entertainment to the community, and our summer outreach musical theatre program is no exception,” Charlie Blum, president and CEO of the Star Plaza Theatre for the last 23 years, says. “We are extremely appreciative of the support we receive from the community.” This summer theatre outreach program allows local area talent, in all aspects of theater, on stage and behind the scenes, to participate in a major production of a famed Broadway show - not to mention performing on the same stage as Jerry Seinfeld and ZZ Top.

SECOND PLACE

Theatre at the Center

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

THIRD PLACE

Memorial Opera House 104 Indiana Ave Valparaiso, Ind. 219.548.9137 mohlive.com

[ best ]

MARINA Hammond Marina

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

ocated just 12 nautical miles from downtown Chicago, 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 Ship 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 100-seat facility for special events or meetings. The Hammond Marina was also named a Clean Marina by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources

[ best ] MOVIE THEATER AMC Theatres

AMC Showplace Schererville 16 875 Deer Creek Dr Schererville, Ind. 219.322.9762 AMC Showplace Schererville 12 1400 Eagle Ridge Dr Schererville, Ind. 800.326.3264 AMC Showplace Hobart 12 2590 Southlake Mall Dr Hobart, Ind. 888.262.4386 amctheatres.com

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

SECOND PLACE

THIRD PLACE

Washington Park 200 Heisman Harbor Rd Michigan City, Ind. 219.872.1712 mcmarina.org3

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

Michigan City Marina

“We at AMC work very hard to provide the best movie going experience whether through guest services or the movie presentation,” AMC Theatre Representative Ryan Noonan says. “We want people to be excited about coming to the movies and to feel welcome at our theaters.” With a combined total of 40 screens in Schererville and Hobart, AMC Showplace Theatres offer a wide variety of movie choices for its patrons. AMC Schererville 16 now offers a state of the art digital IMAX screen. The AMC stubs program costs $12 annually. Stubs clients receive $10 credits for each $100 they spend. Concession stand purchases using the stubs card are automatically upgraded for

St. Joseph Yacht Club

free. Stubs card holders can order movie tickets online with no convenience fees and an online scrapbook, which can be shared on social media, keeps copies of the actual ticket stubs.

SECOND PLACE

Portage 16 IMAX 6550 American Way Portage, Ind. 219.764.7469 Imax.com

THIRD PLACE

Cinemark of Valparaiso

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

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 19

Entertainment

[ best ] PLACE FOR A CHILD’S BIRTHDAY PARTY Deep River Waterpark

9001 E US 30 Crown Point, Ind. 219.947.7850 deepriverwaterpark.com

[ best ]

MUSEUM

Museum of Science and Industry

57th St and Lake Shore Dr . Chicago, Ill. 773.684.1414 . msichicago.org

SECOND PLACE

Field Museum

1400 S Lake Shore Dr Chicago, Ill. 312.922.9410 fieldmuseum.org

THIRD PLACE

Chicago Children’s Museum

Navy Pier 700 E Grand Ave Chicago, Ill. 312.527.1000 chicagochildrensmuseum.org

The Museum of Science and Industry opened its doors in 1933 and is the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere. It is home to more than 35,000 artifacts and nearly 14 acres of hands-on exhibits designed to spark scientific inquiry and creativity. Public programming includes daily live science experiences, facilitated exhibits, special access tours, science theater shows, lectures, live video conferences and special overnight events. Major permanent exhibits include: U-505 Submarine, YOU! The Experience, Science Storms, the Coal Mine, the Baby Chick Hatchery, The Great Train Story, ToyMaker 3000, Genetics: Decoding Life, Earth Revealed, Colleen Moore’s Fairy Castle, the Pioneer Zephyr, Farm Tech and Take Flight. “Our latest temporary exhibit, MythBusters: The Explosive Exhibition, makes its world premiere at MSI. It will have you hanging from ledges, driving blindfolded, pulling tablecloths off of fully set tables and doing everything else you’ve always wished you could do-but knew you shouldn’t. And like the often explosive fun of the MythBusters series, it will all be in the name of science,” says David R. Mosena, president and CEO.

20 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

Birthday parties at Deep River Waterpark made a splash with voters who selected it as the No. 1 place to host a children’s birthday party. General manager Chris Landgrave says it’s a popular party site because it’s fun and easy. “We take care of things they’d have to do at home. You don’t

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

photo [this page] courtesy of JOE ZIOLKOWSKI, MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY; [opposite page, left] by JONATHAN MIANO | THE TIMES, [right] TONY V. MARTIN | THE TIMES

[ best ]

PUBLIC GARDEN, OUTDOOR EXHIBITION The Shrine of Christ’s Passion

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

V have to bake cupcakes or clean up. It makes a lot more sense,” he says. The park, hailed as the largest waterpark in the Chicagoland area, also provides the entertainment. With many types of attractions ranging from flowing rivers to plunging slides, the park is suitable for many age groups. Birthday party packages

include admission, a reserved party table to keep all day, a lunch and coupons for ice cream treats. Upgrades are available. The park’s mascot, Paddles the Otter, also makes an appearance, and the birthday child receives special prizes and surprises. “I don’t think a day goes by with a birthday,” Landgrave says.

SECOND PLACE

THIRD PLACE

2800 Colorado St Lake Station, Ind. 219.963.2070 mybellaboos.com

4 locations in Northwest Indiana and Illinois 219.322.5333 funflatables.org

Bellaboo’s

Funflatables

isitors are invited to “Come Take the Journey” — an interactive halfmile winding pathway that begins with the Last Supper and Garden of Gethsemane and continues through the Passion of Christ as depicted in the Stations of the Cross. Over 1,000 trees and bushes, beautiful natural boulders from central Wisconsin and decorative stamped concrete paths set the stage for over 40 life-size bronze statues. Anyone who appreciates the artistry of sculpting, landscape and set design will be blown away,” visitor James B. from South Pasadena, CA says. “. . . it’s a unique outdoor museum great for quiet reflective time. I especially liked the soundtrack . . . at each sculpture station is an interactive commentary narrative from (Chicago’s own) Bill Kurtis.” Pathways are illuminated for early evening use. Open year round, admission to The Shrine of Christ’s Passion is free (donations accepted). The onsite Visitor’s Center features unique religious and inspirational products and is open daily from 10am-5pm.

SECOND PLACE

Taltree Arboretum & Gardens 71 North 500 West Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.0025 taltree.org

THIRD PLACE

Gardens on the Prairie

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

Avalon Manor Banquet Center

Northwoods

[ best ] ASIAN FOOD China Buffet 1640 US Route 41 Schererville, Ind. 219.865.2888

o, you have a craving for delectable Chinese food, but not sure where to go? Look no further than Schererville’s very own China Buffet, voted as The Times Best of the Region for Best Asian Food! With a huge selection of Chinese dishes, everyone in your family is sure to find something that they love! Plus, a buffet allows diners a chance to perhaps try some dishes they have never tried before! Take it from me...you might find some new favorites! Head in for either lunch or dinner for a one of a kind meal experience...and don’t forget your chopsticks!

Asparagus

7876 Broadway Merrillville, Ind. 219.794.0000 asparagusrestaurant.com

THIRD PLACE

The China House 120 Lincolnway Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.5788

At 30,000-square-foot, Avalon Manor is the largest freestanding banquet and meeting center in Northwest Indiana. It can hold up to 1,200 guests while still maintaining its commitment to quality and service. Peter Kaiafas, Avalon’s owner and manager, says, “we have a reputation for good food and good service that goes back over 30 years.” Its beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces also set it apart, he says. It features a pond with fountain, gazebo, gardens and rooms with high ceilings and large windows. While it continues to thrive as an in-demand wedding venue, the hall also hosts corporate functions, business meetings and nonprofit fundraisers. “We are well known throughout the Northwest Indiana business community,” Kaiafas says. “We have a lot of loyal business customers.”

SECOND PLACE

Strongbow Inn 2405 E US 30 Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.5121 strongbowinn.com

THIRD PLACE

Halls of St. George

905 E Joliet St Schererville, Ind. 219.865.9411 hallsofstgeorge.com

8101 US Route 41 St. John, Ind. 219.558.8130 nightwoods.com

t 10 p.m. Northwoods transforms from a fullservice restaurant into a night club bursting with entertainment options. Owner

Jeff Fryzel says it’s an inviting place where everybody hangs out. “We’re the largest club in the area and we provide the best entertainment.” The fun atmosphere includes the full log building, fireplaces, a 7,000-square-foot outdoor deck, two-acre pond and more than a dozen TVs for sporting events. Tuesdays are open mic night. Wednesdays are college night with video DJ and karaoke. Thursdays are country night featuring country bands and video DJs playing all country music. On Fridays and Saturdays big name bands, usually from Chicago, perform. Theme parties also draw a big crowd, Fryzel says, whether it

[ best ]

BAKERY Butterfingers

2552 45th Ave . Highland, Ind. 219.924.6464 921D Ridge Rd . Munster, Ind. 219.836.4202 butterfingersbakery.wordpress.com

SECOND PLACE

Strongbow Inn 2405 E US 30 Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.5121 strongbowinn.com/ bakery

THIRD PLACE

Strack & Van Til

strackandvantil.com

hile it may be hard to fathom just how many hours of work Butterfingers owner Rob Haynes has put into his thriving bakery throughout the years, it all becomes worth it when he receives a handwritten thank you note from a customer...and rest assured, he receives a ton of them. “I always say we have the nicest customers,” chuckles Haynes, who opened the family owned bakery back in 1985. “It’s quite a loyal customer base that continues to come back year after year.” From cupcakes to croissants, this bakery continues to evolve and expand. “We started with one kind of cupcake a few years ago, and now we have 12 varieties,” laughs Haynes. “It feels good to keep giving our customers what they love.”

photo [this page, bottom] by TONY V. MARTIN | THE TIMES; [opposite page, left] TONY V. MARTIN, [right] courtesy of TABOR HILL

Food & Drink

[ best ] BAR/ LOUNGE

3550 E US Highway 30 Merrillville, Ind. 219.945.0888 avalonmanor.com

SECOND PLACE

[ best ] BANQUET FACILITY

[ best ]

is a red Solo cup party, pajama party or half way to St. Patrick’s Day party. For each of the theme nights, the entire bar is decorated, the staff dresses up and customers can dress up as well. “For example on our little black dress party all of the female servers and bartenders are dressed in black dresses and all males are in tuxedos. For our beach party we fill the place with sand and everyone is in beach attire,” Fryzel says. “It’s always a fun place to go.”

SECOND PLACE

Houlihan’s

1550 US Route 41 Schererville, Ind. 219.864.0077 houlihans.com

THIRD PLACE

T.J. Maloney’s

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

[ best ] CATERER Strack & Van Til svtcatering.com

For decades, Strack & Van Til has been offering catering services to the region, but many people still don’t know all they have to offer. Brenda Wright, catering manager, says, “A lot of people don’t know that we cater, let alone that we deliver, set up, and offer full service. Our food is great quality at economical prices. We’ve become very popular with weddings and we serve buffet style and you don’t have to exceed your budget. We have a large variety of party platters and we’re known for our fast service on short notice. We have nine party packages available for people, starting at $6.99 and the most expensive is $9.99 per person.”

CHEF

NW INDIANA

Nicole Bissonnette Bistro 157 157 Lincolnway Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.0992 bistro157.net

“The day a chef ceases to evolve is the day the apron should be turned in” is how renowned chef Nicole Bissonnette describes her journey to culinary success thus far. Through her dynamic creations at Bistro 157 and Venue in Valparaiso and Bartlett’s Gourmet Grill in Beverly Shores, Bissonnette says she remains true to her cooking craft. “I believe in using the freshest ingredients available and using produce in its prime season,” she explains. “I see my food as “contemporary comfort food” and try to keep flavors simple and light. I avoid combining too many flavors at once. Fusion is one thing, but “confusion” is the worst!”

SECOND PLACE

THIRD PLACE

Lucrezia Restaurant 302 S Main St Crown Point, Ind. 219.661.LUCY lucreziacafe.com

Ciao Bella 1514 US Route 41 Schererville, Ind. 219.322.6800 ciaobellaonline.com

Patrick Sholz

Among Strack & Van Til’s catering offerings are fried chicken, country fried chicken, rotisserie pork loin, beer battered cod, mostaccolli, sausage and sauerkraut, sausage and green peppers, bbq rib tips, certified angus beef, potato salad, tossed salad, mashed potatoes, and coleslaw, among many others. “That’s what makes us so popular is that our food is exceptional,” says Wright. In addition to party packages, Strack & Van Til’s catering department also offers a la carte menus and appetizers, as well as carving stations. “We offer

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Randy Berg

a lot of services,” she says.

SECOND PLACE

Popolano’s

225 South Calumet Rd Chesterton, Ind. 219.926.5552 17940 Torrence Avenue Lansing, Ill. 708.474.0425 popolanosrestaurant.com

THIRD PLACE

Butterfingers 2552 45th Ave Highland, Ind. 219.924.6464

[ best ] CHEF

MICHIGAN JohnPaul VerHage

Tabor Hill Restaurant & Winery 185 Mount Tabor Rd Buchanan, Mich. 269.422.1161 . taborhill.com

hef JohnPaul VerHage at Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant quietly works his culinary magic simply by keeping things fun and fresh in his kitchen. “That’s not to say it doesn’t get hectic and fast paced,” he says, “but my team is always up for a challenge, no matter what the SECOND PLACE front of the house Ryan Thornburg hands us.” Bistro on the Boulevard JohnPaul 521 Lake Blvd VerHage’s skill St. Joseph, Mich. in fine cuisine 269.983.3882 evolved naturally theboulevardandinn.com/ from learning bistro the foundation of cooking at his THIRD PLACE grandmother’s side Timothy Sizer and then honing his Timothy’s 16220 Lakeshore Rd skills at The Culinary Union Pier, Mich. Institute of America. 269.469.0900 . Manager Paul timothysrestaurant.com Landeck notes, “JP knows the basics of Tim’s Too superb tastes as well 511 Pleasant St as the razzmatazz St. Joseph, Mich. of great food 269.985.0094 presentation.” timstoo.com

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 23

Food & Drink COFFEE Dunkin’ Donuts dunkindonuts.com

“Freshly ground, freshly brewed, freshly served” that’s the mantra Dunkin’ Donuts has lived by for more than 60 years. “Our coffee beans are blended according to the Dunkin’ Donuts proprietary recipe - the same recipe we used when we were founded in 1950,” says Carrie Reckert, marketing contact for Dunkin’ Donuts. “We always grind our coffee just before brewing, and our beans are ground to a precise level to match our coffee brewers.” The company has more than 10,000 restaurants in 32 countries - more than 500 of them in the Chicago area and Northwest Indiana. Dunkin’ Donuts also has earned the No. 1 ranking for customer loyalty in the coffee category by Brand Keys for six years running, Reckert says. “It is quite simple,” she says. “At Dunkin’ Donuts we are all about serving the best cup of coffee anyway our customers can enjoy it.”

SECOND PLACE

McDonald’s mcDonalds.com

THIRD PLACE

Starbucks starbucks.com

24 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

Blue Top Drive-In 8801 Indianapolis Blvd Highland, Ind. 219.838.1233 bluetopdrivein.com

lue Top DriveIn is a throw back to the days when eating under a restaurant canopy from the comfort of a vehicle was a popular family activity. Although times have changed and drivethru restaurants have become more popular, Blue Top owner Kent Johnsen says loyal customers and special items on the menu have helped keep the drive-in alive. “We specialize in hamburgers, and we have our homemade root beer I make in my kitchen,” says Johnsen, who operates the drive-in with his mother, Wendy. “One other cute thing we do is if a customer brings in their dog, the dog gets a free hot dog.” Customers can choose to have a tray put on the window of their vehicle as part of the drive-in experience, or can take advantage of picnic tables or indoor seating.

SECOND PLACE

The Port Drive-In

[ best ] FINE DINING RESTAURANT [ best ] MICHIGAN FINE DINING Tabor Hill Restaurant RESTAURANT & Winery 185 Mount Tabor Rd Buchanan, Mich. 269.422.1161 taborhill.com

t makes sense that the “Best Chef” would be located in the “Best Fine Dining Restaurant.” That’s the case at Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant, where, says Manager Paul Landeck, “not only does Chef JohnPaul wow guests with great food but veteran restaurant Manager Cathy Fielding and team also ensure that great service and ambiance complete the picture for a perfect wining and dining experience for our delighted guests.” Chef John Paul presents a menu that changes daily and features the freshest seasonal ingredients. A truly magnificent view of rolling vineyards makes the superb food and award-winning wine even more enjoyable.

SECOND PLACE

Bistro on the Boulevard

419 N Calumet Rd Chesterton, Ind. 219.926.3500 theportdrivein.com

521 Lake Boulevard St Joseph, Mich. 269.983.3882 theboulevardandinn.com/bistro

THIRD PLACE

118 W Coolspring Ave Michigan City, Ind. 219.872.0331 carlsonsdrive-in.com

16220 Lakeshore Rd Union Pier, Mich. 269.469.0900 timothysrestaurant.com

Carlson’s Drive-In

Timothy’s

NW INDIANA

The Lighthouse

7501 Constitution Ave Cedar Lake, Ind. 219.374.9283 cedarlakelighthouse.com With fresh seafood flown in every day, The Lighthouse gives patrons a bounty of the ocean’s choices. Located on the shores of Cedar Lake, the fine dining restaurant allows diners to enjoy a view of the water while sampling steaks, seafood, burgers and pasta. “It’s very scenic here,” General Manager Rich Arthur says. “Probably at least 50 percent or more of our dining area has a great view of the lake.” Known for sunset dining, The Lighthouse soon will feature an outdoor kitchen as well. By the end of May, plans are to add the kitchen to the patio area, which will allow outdoor dining for about 80, Arthur says.

SECOND PLACE

Ciao Bella Ristorante

1514 US 41 . Schererville, Ind. 219.322.6800 ciaobellaonline.com

THIRD PLACE

Teibel’s Family Restaurant

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

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

photo [this page, left] by JIM SCHERER, [right] courtesy of THE LIGHTHOUSE; [opposite page, bottom] by TONY V. MARTIN | THE TIMES

[ best ]

[ best ] DRIVE-IN

EDITOR’S CHOICE good coffee, efficient service, and a throwback feel and it’s no wonder this chain has kept customers coming to Schoop’s for generations. Other menu selections include salads, soups, homemade chili, Polish sausage, tuna melts, cheese fries, egg salad sandwiches, BLTs, and plenty of selections from the Schoop’s soda fountain like shakes, floats, sundaes, and soft drinks.

[ best ] HAMBURGER Schoop’s

schoophamburgers.com

ith 19 locations from Orland Park, Ill. to Warsaw, Ind., Schoop’s has expanded from their original Munster, Ind. restaurant, built in 1948, to bring the entire region the best hamburgers, and more. Schoop’s hamburgers are fresh, never frozen, and cooked to crispy perfection so it spills out of the bun. Throw in an endless cup of

[ best ] FAMILY RESTAURANT Round the Clock

909 West Lincoln Hwy Schererville, Ind. . 219.322.4940

9010 Indianapolis Blvd Highland, Ind. . 219.923.4546 16310 South LaGrange Rd Orland Park, Ill. . 708.226.8099 roundtheclock.com

SECOND PLACE

Culver’s culvers.com

THIRD PLACE

Miner Dunn

8940 Indianapolis Blvd Highland, Ind. 219.923.3311

Round the Clock offers a large menu of meals made from scratch, hot-out-of-the-oven rolls, homemade soups, and freshly baked desserts. Perhaps their ample menu is one reason their locations are a great choice for all members of the family since everyone can find something they love for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Since 1963, Round the Clock Family Restaurants have been familyowned establishments that focus on people, including both their customers and their employees, and delivering a quality dining experience. “We have satisfied customers because we offer great food at reasonable prices and we like to think our employees are the best in the industry. Our management team is a big part of that,” says Minas Litos, owner.

SECOND PLACE

Teibel’s

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

THIRD PLACE

Kelsey’s Steakhouse

2300 US Highway 30 Valparaiso, Ind. 219.465.4022 5630 US Highway 6 Portage, Ind. 219.762.2242 kelseyssteakhouse.com

[ best ]

POLISH RESTAURANT Warsaw Inn

t’s 7am, and the talented cooking staff at Warsaw Inn has just walked through the doors of the restaurant to create yet another days worth of delectable treats. In a handful of hours, the staff will create over 60 homemade items for their loyal patrons to enjoy. And while some of us will have trouble cooking just a few items for dinner tonight, Warsaw Inn owner Angie Golom has grown accustomed to the day to day workings of her popular European American buffet, a favorite of food lovers since 1972.”We originally opened in the Blue Island area and moved to our current Lynwood location in 1980,” she explains. “We are very blessed to be one of the very few restaurants left that actually make everything from scratch.” From the fresh polish sausage to the homemade pastries, the Warsaw Inn is the home to countless culinary favorites. Nightly specials include roast duck on Tuesdays and BBQ ribs on Saturdays. “Every single day, I have to have a pierogi and maybe some sauerkraut,” chuckles Golom, who comes into work six days a week. “I also love our stuffed cabbage and sausage....and our potato pancakes. It really is excellent food.” And while she puts much of her trust in her talented stable of cooks in the kitchen, Golom herself has been known to go back into the kitchen, especially if someone is on vacation or sick. “Yes, I know how to cook or bake every food item that we offer,” she laughs. “These are all our family’s best recipes.” With three grown sons now living outside of the state, Golom says that coming into the restaurant truly fulfills her life these days. “I’ve really never imagined doing anything else,” she says. “When I go on vacation, I just want to come back and get back to work. I just love the sounds of the restaurant business, from the clinks of the glasses to the drinks being poured.” And while she mentions that many of her longtime clientele may have moved out of the area in recent years, she says they all come back to eat at the Warsaw Inn. “Some of my employees have been here with me for over 25 years,” she says. “This restaurant is my baby. I just love it.”

Food & Drink [ best ]

HOTDOG Boz Hot Dogs

bozhotdogs.com

A quality product and fresh SECOND PLACE condiments have put Boz Hot Dogs Maxwell Street at the top of the Best of the Region’s Hot Dogs list for years. 1500 N Main St A loyal fan base keeps Crown Point, Ind. coming back for the dogs, 219.663.8430 and also popular items like the Italian beef, Polish THIRD PLACE sausage and nachos, says Corky’s Dogg franchise owner Nancy House Kennedy. 12421 Wicker Ave Kennedy, who owns the Cedar Lake, Ind. Griffith and Dyer locations, 219.374.9332 says they are the only two in Indiana. She has owned the stores since 1985 and ‘87 and says her favorite part is meeting the customers and watching employees grow up. “Employees come back who are now in their 40s. They come back to say hello,” she says. It’s not just the employees who come back. With more than 40 years in the Chicagoland area, Boz gets a lot of repeat customers. “They walk in and we know what they’re getting,” she says.

[ best ] ITALIAN RESTAURANT Lucrezia

428 S Calumet Rd Chesterton, Ind. 219.926.LUCY 302 S Main St Crown Point, Ind. 219.661.LUCY lucreziacafe.com

26 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

[ best ] ICE CREAM SHOP ColdStone Creamery

coldstonecreamery.com Cold Stone Creamery ice cream is not a typical scoop of vanilla. This ice cream starts with using the highest quality ingredients and ends with their signature process for preparing a custom creation on a frozen granite stone. Founded in 1988, the first Cold Stone Creamery in Tempe, Arizona has grown nationally to 1,400 stores in the chain. They serve the finest ice cream, cakes, smoothies, and shakes. By mixing nuts, fruits, and candy into their smooth and creamy ice cream the frozen granite stone, Cold Stone Creamery employees are more like ice cream artists. Order a Cold

Stone Signature Creation or customize your own treat.

SECOND PLACE

Gayety’s

gayetyschocolate.com

THIRD PLACE

Valpo Velvet 55-57 Monroe St Valparaiso, Ind. 219.464.4141 valpovelvet.com

ith a selection of meats, pastas, salads and more on the menu, as well as a number of daily special selections, Lucrezia’s has a smalltown atmosphere, but a big city selection that changes with each growing season and keeps them evolving. Owner Nada Karas says, “I’m very proud that we don’t skimp or cut corners. Our food is freshly made, it doesn’t come from corporate, we are an independent, family-owned restaurant, and everything we make is from scratch, even our desert. That is one of the reasons I believe we are successful. It’s fresh and simple.” “I have really trained the staff to have that attention to detail. Detail is very important. A fork has to be placed in a certain way. The cleanliness has to be there, everywhere, the dining room, kitchen, bathroom, it all comes

SECOND PLACE

Giovanni’s

together. I’m very fortunate that I have a staff that is family to me. They’ve been here, many of them since day one. Chef Alfredo and Chef Patrick have been here since the beginning and we’re blessed to have the same chefs. It’s important to customers who come to Lucrezia to know there are familiar faces, where our customers are acknowledged, so they come back. It’s important to form relationships and it makes us stand out,” Karas says.

603 Ridge Rd Munster, Ind. 219.836.6220 giosmunster.com

THIRD PLACE

Ciao Bella Ristorante

1514 US Route 41 Schererville, Ind. 219.322.6800 ciaobellaonline.com

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Thank you for voTing us one of The

The finest and freshest Italian Cuisine Awaits you!

[ best ] MICROBREWERY

Extensive Wine List • Express Lunch Specials Weekly Dining & Drink Specials Let our Event Specialist help plan the perfect menu for your Graduation Party

Three Floyds Brewing Company 9570 Indiana Pkwy Munster, Ind. 219.922.3565 3floyds.com

photography [this page] courtesy of AURELIO’S PIZZA; [opposite page] by TONY V. MARTIN | THE TIMES

hree Floyds Brewing Company was founded in 1996 by brothers Nick and Simon with their father Mike Floyd. The original brewery was built by Nick and Simon in a warehouse located in Hammond, Indiana. In 2000 the whole operation was moved to Munster, Indiana where it remains today. In November of 2005, after receiving numerous visitors to the brewery over the years, Three Floyds opened its own brewpub at the production facility. The pub also has a full service kitchen providing pub fare of the best quality supported by a 3,000 square foot organic herb and vegetable garden. Lincoln Anderson, sales manager at Three Floyds Brewing Company says, “Total, unwavering, commitment to quality. That’s my opinion on what makes us a fantastic brewery.”

SECOND PLACE

Bulldog Brewery 1409 119th St Whiting, Ind. 219.655.5284 bulldogbrewingco.com

THIRD PLACE

New Holland

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

[ best ] PIZZA

On-site catering available or call for accommodations in our new private party room opening late spring.

Congratulations to Our Executive Chef Randy Berg Voted

Aurelio’s

One Of the Best Chefs

aureliospizza.com

urelio’s Pizza first began as a small, fourtable restaurant in Homewood, Ill. More than 50 years later, the restaurant has expanded to 43 locations in six states. “We have a little bit of a unique model because our restaurants are family pizzerias,” says Kirk Mauiello, director of franchise for the company. “They’re designed for a family to come and enjoy a nice night out.” Known for its Chicago-style pizza, Aurelio’s also has several specialty pizzas, sandwiches and pasta. Mauiello says it’s a great honor to be recognized by readers. “It’s something we strive for to bring our customers the best quality product with the best ingredients for a great value,” he says.

1514 U.S. 41 | Schererville, IN | 219.322.6800

Scan for our Complete Menu

Monday-Thursday: 11am - 10pm Friday-Saturday: 11am-11pm | Sunday: 11am-10pm www.ciaobellaonline.com

Thank you for voting us

SECOND PLACE

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

11319 Broadway Crown Point, Ind. 219.662.2828 gelpizzacrownpoint.com

• • • • • •

Gelsosomo’s Crown Point

Showers Birthday Parties School Events Club Meetings Graduations Retirement Parties

THIRD PLACE

Beggars Pizza beggarspizza.com

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

6 0 3 R i d g e R oa d, M u n s t e R , i n | 2 1 9 - 8 3 6 - 6 2 2 0 may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 27

Food & Drink [ best ]

think it’s because myself and my staff, we really love what we do. The hardest thing about being good at anything is if you see it as a chore, you don’t look forward to it, you’re not going to excel and do it right. I just love what I do. You come into my restaurant and you give me the opportunity to participate in this intimate act in your life, eating. I get to sit people in what I consider my living room, and I get to feed hungry people. Once you come here, you’re going to be a regular because we’re good at it. We make everything from scratch in an honest kitchen, nothing from a jar, fresh vegetables, fresh meats, dried grains, the old-fashioned way. We’re still having fun,” Garcia says.

MEXICAN FOOD El Taco Real

935 Hoffman St Hammond, Ind. 219.932.8333 eltacorealrestaurant.com

aymundo Garcia, whose family has owned El Taco Real for 38 years, says the key to his restaurant’s success has come from love. “I

SECOND PLACE

El Salto

805 Ridge Rd Munster, Ind. 219.836.0600 757 Indian Boundary Rd Chesterton, Ind. 219.395.9890 3530 Calumet Ave Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.0100 elsaltorestaurant.com

THIRD PLACE

La Quesadilla

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

“For 38 years Voted Best Mexican my family and Restaurant in the Times Best of the Region for our employees 18 years in a row! have been Hammond feeding 219.932.8333 the 935 Hoffman Street calumet region. 935 Hoffman Street (between Calumet & Columbia ave)

HOurs

est. 1974

Tuesday - Thursday: 11am - 10pm Friday - Saturday: 11am - 11pm Sunday: 11am - 9pm • Closed on Monday

Cel

ebr

in b

usi

ati

nes

Hammond

(between Calumet & Columbia ave)

sMOKE-FrEE WEEKENDs te. after 4pm. All Day Sunday! Friday and Saturday t da a firs for n rso pe l cia very spe a 219.932.8333 t me u yo y da the on u yo We served . ms special events and sport tea We support your high school HOURS of your intimate relationships. hip rts cou the g rin du Tuesday Thursday: 11am - 10pm re he We were ir first solid meals. the en ldr chi ur yo fed Friday Saturday: 11am - 11pm we d rried an We cheered when you got ma t. ran tau res r Sunday: 11am 9pm ou at ing ing your children’s’ children din Closed on monday Now we have the honor of see part of your family. be to ily fam my ow all d an al o Re Continue the tradition at El Tac y” - Raymundo A. Garcia, “Bus Bo you.” ve ser to ge vile pri a it er sid We con eltacorealrestaurant.com

28 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

The relenTless pursuiT of The perfecT pizza!

[ best ] PLACE FOR BREAKFAST

Thank You for voting us

BesT Pizza! 11319 Broadway • Crown Point, IN • (219) 662-2828

Round the Clock 909 West Lincoln Hwy Schererville, Ind. 219.322.4940

9010 Indianapolis Blvd Highland, Ind. 219.923.4546 16310 South LaGrange Rd Orland Park, Ill. 708.226.8099 roundtheclock.com

photo [this page] by JON L. HENDRICKS | THE TIMES

Sunday -Thursday 11 a.m.–9 p.m. • Friday–Saturday 11 a.m.–11 p.m.

[ best ] PLACE FOR BRUNCH Strongbow Inn

Strongbow Inn began in the late 1930s as a small turkey sandwich stand and today is a full-service restaurant, banquet centre, and bakery. Hosting weddings, banquets, and private dinners, Strongbow Inn is not only known for its terrific turkey dishes, but their tremendous Sunday brunch that boasts both breakfast and lunch offerings. Russ Adams, who owns Strongbow Inn with his wife Nancy, says, “We make eggs and omelets to order on our Sunday brunch, a standing ham and turkey carved right in the room, whole slab bacon carved, beautiful pastries from our bakery, an array of fresh crisp salads and smoked salmon, a wonderful atmosphere and great service.”

SECOND PLACE

Center for Visual & Performing Arts

399 E 81st Ave . Merrillville, Ind. 219.736.0100

Offer expires 7/4 y other offers. Not valid with an

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

AlwAys Open 24 HOurs Voted #1 15 Years In A Row!

Thank you for voting us...

#1 #1

SECOND PLACE

BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT BEST PLACE FoR BREAkFAST

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

936 US Highway 30 . Dyer, Ind. 219.865.3200

THIRD PLACE

600 E 81st Ave . Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.4466

250 81st Ave . Dyer, Ind. 219.865.3950 scrambleddiner.com

1259 W US Highway 30 219.865.3854 ginossteakhouse.com

The Scrambled Diner

o FREE Chicangy A h it w Dog Purchase /12.

2405 E US 30 . Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.5121 . strongbowinn.com

ince 1963, Round the Clock has been offering the region egg-ceptional breakfasts at reasonable prices. Buttermilk biscuits and homemade sausage gravy, pancakes with butter pecan syrup, eggs cooked to order, omelets, waffles, bacon, hash browns and more start every morning off right. Their huge selection means that everyone can find the perfect selection and walk out satisfied with both their meal and their pocketbook. “Our menu line for breakfast is very strong,” says Minas Litos, owner. “Our omelets are very fluffy and they’re different than the rest of the market. People recognize the value of good food,” he says.

Jelly’s Pancake House

Thank You for Voting Us One of The Best in the Region!

Gino’s Steakhouse

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Tradition Of Great Taste RoundTheClock.com Schererville

Highland

219-322-4940

219-923-4546

(909 West Lincoln Highway) (9010 Indianapolis Blvd.)

Orland Park

(16310 South LaGrange Rd.)

708-226-8099

Merrillville

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

219-769-1591

Loubie’s Hammond

(1229 165th St.)

219-852-4080

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 29

Food & Drink EDITOR’S CHOICE

[ best ]

SIGNATURE SANDWICHES Good to Go by Lucrezia

them down.” Since opening in the ‘little house’, Good to Go by Lucrezia has evolved from just a small deli to a thriving business offering a wide variety of delectable items. While some Lucrezia favorites such as vegetable lasagna, veal meatballs and stuffed chicken breasts are available for the every expanding ‘to go’ crowd, the deli also offers a wide range of Italian meats and cheeses. “It was never part of the plan when we opened Lucrezia over 14 years ago,” says Karas, who works alongside Good to Go manager and marketing coordinator Joyce Stauffer. “But as the restaurant continued to expand, we started giving more thought to the ‘to go’ concept, and in July of 2010, Good to Go by Lucrezia was born.” Besides additional salad options such as chicken, macaroni and potato salad, Good To Go by Lucrezia also carries an expanding line of ultra premium olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars along with dry goods such as fresh bread and pastas. “Our deli case is always changing, so we certainly don’t ever have a menu etched in stone.” Yet, when it comes time for Karas to sit down for a small bite to eat, she certainly has her favorites. “I definitely support the farm to table concept, so I absolutely love the time of the year when I can go to the European Market in Chesterton and pick up some fresh items for my salads,” she says. “I have a lot on my plate these days, but those are the times when I can truly sit back and enjoy how everything has evolved into what it is today.”

[ best ] PLACE FOR CHICKEN WINGS Buffalo Wild Wings Grill and Bar

buffalowildwings.com Crown Point Buffalo Wild Wings Assistant Manager Michael Moyihan says customers are drawn to the restaurant for the food, the service and the atmosphere. “People want to come to a sports bar,” Moyihan says. “We have over 40 televisions with great food and great service.” Buffalo Wild Wings features both traditional and boneless wings with 16 sauces, ranging from mild sweet barbeque to blazin’ and four dry rubs. “Blazin’ is only for the brave,” Moyihan says. Buffalo Wild Wings also serves wraps, hamburgers, flat breads, salads and appetizers. Buffalo Wild Wings carries 24 beers on tap with quarterly domestic, craft and import specials. Most popular menu items are the boneless wings, buffalo ranch wraps and the new table

gate sampler which comes with traditional wings, soft pretzels, pita chips, spinach artichoke dip and Jalapeno bites.

SECOND PLACE

Hooters hooters.com

THIRD PLACE

Wings Etc. wingsetc.net

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

Jimmy John’s is all about using the freshest ingredients and providing fast efficient service, a company representative says. The representative describes Jimmy John’s as “a quick, tasty, no gimmicks sandwich shop using only the best ingredients including real Hellman’s Mayonnaise and Grey Poupon Mustard.” Genuine French and seven-grain breads are freshly baked. Meats, cheese and

photo [this page] by TONY V. MARTIN | THE TIMES; [opposite page, bottom] courtesy of TEXAS CORRAL, [top] TONY V. MARTIN | THE TIMES

ucrezia Cafe owner Nada Karas never pictured herself as the owner of a sandwich shop. “I didn’t even want to be a called ‘a sandwich shop’ in the beginning,” says Karas, owner of the wildly popular Chesterton eateries. “What I wanted originally was to offer quality Italian meats that you couldn’t get at your local grocery stores. Yet, eventually, people would come in asking for a sandwich, and being in the restaurant business, I certainly didn’t want to turn

[ best ]

SPORTS BAR & GRILL

Buddy & Pals Place

1206 E Summit St Crown Point, Ind. 219.662.0088 340 US Highway 30 Schererville, Ind. 219.865.8377 buddyandpals.com

ports fans know they can always find a game on at Buddy & Pals Place. The bars, located in Crown Point and Schererville, feature flat screen TVs and set up a large screen for the big games, says Chad Kulavick, general manager of the Crown Point location. Both locales serve food daily. Patrons at Crown Point can order pizza, sandwiches, pierogies and more from Maggie’s and Us and Schererville patrons can choose from menu items like pizza, wings and sandwiches from Langel’s Pizza. The Crown Point location features a private party room that can seat up to 100 guests. In addition to sports and food, both locales offer entertainment. “There’s always something going on and there’s never a cover charge,” Kulavick says. “We have the Region’s best entertainment,” Kulavick says.

vegetables are sliced fresh in house daily. Ingredients used at Jimmy John’s contain no additives or vegetable-based fillers. Real turkey and roast beef are used. The sandwich shop was founded in 1983 by 19-yearold Jimmy John Liautaud in Charleston, Illinois in a converted garage, quickly expanding to college towns across the Midwest and eventually becoming a national franchise. Jimmy John’s has a system designed for quick delivery. “Subs so fast you’ll freak!” is their mantra.

[ best ] PLACE FOR LUNCH

SECOND PLACE

5718 Franklin St Michigan City, Ind. 219.871.1545 texascorral.net

Subway subway.com

THIRD PLACE

Butterfingers 921 Ridge Rd Munster, Ind. 219.836.4202

2552 - 45th St Highland, Ind. 219.924.6464 butterfingersbakery.wordpress.com

Texas Corral

9200 Indianapolis Blvd Highland, Ind. 219.838.4940 5880 US Hwy 6 Portage, Ind. 219.764-7515

arryl Cannon, Manager of the Highland Texas Corral, says the special steak seasoning and the staff hospitality draw

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

customers to Texas Corral. “We really care and show concern that when they come in they have a pleasant dining experience,” Cannon says. “We just don’t put the food on the table; we check on our customers and make sure that their food is cooked right. We want them to enjoy their dining experience and come back.” Texas Corral offers lunch specials serving sandwiches, the Texas Club, country fried steak, steaks, grilled chicken breast and all you can eat soup and salad. The newest menu item is the turkey or ham and cheese Panini, a customer favorite at lunch along with the traditional burgers. Lunch specials run between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Cannon says the restaurant’s goal is to serve lunch customers their food within 10 to 15 minutes of their being seated.

SECOND PLACE

Amarillo Roadhouse

1924 US Route 41 Schererville, Ind. 219.322.1142 amarillo-roadhouse.com

THIRD PLACE

Bridges Scoreboard

121 N Griffith Blvd Griffith, Ind. 219.924.2206 bridgesscoreboard.com

SECOND PLACE

Bon Femme Café 66 W Lincoln Hwy Valparaiso, Ind. 219.531.0612 bonfemme.com

THIRD PLACE

Popolano’s

17940 Torrence Ave Lansing, Ill. 708.474.0425 225 S Calumet Rd Chesterton, Ind. 219.926.5552 popolanosrestaurant.com

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 31

Food & Drink

The Lighthouse Restaurant

7501 Constitution Ave Cedar Lake, Ind. 219.374.WAVE cedarlakelighthouse.com Manager Rich Arthur attributes the Lighthouse Restaurant’s popularity to its fresh food and culinary expertise. “First of all, the seafood is fresh and flown in daily,” Arthur says. “Secondly, we have an incredibly talented culinary staff.” “We are obviously also well-known for our location which is right on Cedar Lake,” Arthur says. “When the sun goes down in the summer time this is the place to be.” The most popular seafood entrees are the Chilean sea bass and macadamia crusted walleye. The Lighthouse is featuring a new menu with a variety of flat breads, chicken Marsala, a warm crab dip appetizer and banana cream pie for dessert. A full outdoor kitchen with a separate menu, fire pits and dining on the patio will open mid-May.

SECOND PLACE

Teibel’s Family Restaurant 1775 US Route 41 Schererville, Ind. 219.865.2000 teibels.com

THIRD PLACE

Bartlett’s Gourmet Grill 131 E Dunes Hwy Beverly Shores, Ind. 219.879.3081

32 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

STEAKHOUSE Kelsey’s Steak & Seafood 2300 US Highway 30 . Valparaiso, Ind. 219.465.4022 5630 US Highway 6 . Portage, Ind. 219.762.2242 kelseyssteakhouse.com

elsey’s Steak & Seafood offers great food, good prices, excellent service, and a clean restaurant. Their food begins with USDA choice steaks. They are hand-cut and never marinated, tenderized, or frozen. Soups, special dressings, sauces, potatoes, and seasonings are homemade daily. Peggy Hood, owner of Kelsey’s with her husband Jack Hood says, “We do steak and prime rib well because we have an attention to detail from our chef, we’re the only place that uses actual charcoal in our grilling that gives you the taste of home, and we have had national coverage on television. We just celebrated our first anniversary under our new ownership so we thank the region for their support.”

SECOND PLACE

The Lighthouse

THIRD PLACE

Gino’s Steakhouse

7501 Constitution Ave Cedar Lake, Ind. 219.374.WAVE cedarlakelighthouse.com

[ best ] WINERY Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant

185 Mount Tabor Rd Buchanan, Mich. 269.422.1161 . taborhill.com

ongtime winemaker Mike Merchant continues to create one awardwinning wine after another in his state-of-the-art facilities at Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant. “Mike quite literally grew up among the vines that he knows as well as the back of his own hands,”

says Manager Paul Landeck. “He’ll be the first to tell you that his wines are no better than the grapes that Mother Nature gives him to work with each harvest but that doesn’t stop him from improving them, year after year.” Merchant’s most recent accolade came from a “Best of Class” award for Tabor Hill’s Grand Mark Sparkling Wine at The International Eastern Wine Competition.

SECOND PLACE

Round Barn Winery 9185 Union Pier Rd Union Pier, Mich. 269.469.6885

10983 Hills Rd Baroda, Mich. 800.716.9463 roundbarnwinry.com

600 E 81st Ave Merrillville, Ind. ginossteakhouse.com

THIRD PLACE

White Pine

317 State St St. Joseph, Mich. 269.281.0098 whitepinewinery.com

photo [top] by TONY V. MARTIN | THE TIMES

[ best ] SEAFOOD

[ best ]

Thank You for voTing us

Best Place for Breakfast

Serving a variety of Breakfast and Lunch entrees along with our homemade Jelly. Flavors range from Piña Colada and Jalapeño Pepper to basic Strawberry and Grape.

Now open in Dyer

Our menu offers eggs accompanied by steaks and chops, large omelets, freshly squeezed orange juice, crepes, skillets, french toast, waffles, pancakes and more. If you’re in the mood for lunch, homemade soups, burgers, salads, wraps and a variety of entrees are among a few of the choices. Bloody Mary's, Mimosas and Wine, during brunch and lunch, are available at the Dyer location as well as outdoor seating for those warm sunny days.

Catering and Private Parties Welcome

pancake house

936 U.S. 30 • Dyer • (219)865-3200 | 399 E. 81st Ave • Merrillville • (219)736-0100 H O u r S M O n Day - S u n D ay 6 a M - 3 P M

ExcEptional SErvicE. Sizzling taStE.

Your Table is Waiting...

Thank you for voting us a

BESt StEaKHoUSE A N D A B E S T P l AC E F o R B RU N C h

Serving USDA Dry & Wet Aged Prime Steaks, the Freshest Seafood & Pasta and Mouth Watering Desserts.

Full Bar, Unprecedented Wine List, Live Entertainment Friday and Saturday Private Party Rooms Available. Accommodations from 45 to 100. We'll customize a menu perfect for any event. Contact our event specialist for more details.

1 2 5 9 W. U S 3 0 , D ye r, I N | 2 1 9 - 8 6 5 - 3 8 5 4 6 0 0 E . U S 3 0 , M e r r i l l v i l l e, I N | 2 1 9 - 7 6 9 - 4 4 6 6 w w w. g i n o s s t e a k h o u s e . c o m

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may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 33

[ best ]

TIED FOR SECOND PLACE

Franciscan Hammond Clinic

Community Cardiology Center

7905 Calumet Ave Munster, Ind. 219.836.5800 hammondclinic.com

801 MacArthur Blvd, Suite 201 . Munster, Ind. 219.513.0422 . comhs.org

ommunity Cardiology Center at Community Hospital offers patients all across the region access to the most advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies available for the treatment and management of heart and vascular disease. Compassionate, expert staff provides personalized care, explains every aspect of the patient’s procedure, and answers any questions the patient may have.“We are passionate about providing our patients the latest advances in cardiac care, technology and service,” says Mary Miller, RN, manager of Community Cardiology Center at Community Hospital. “Our staff and physicians take pride in the work we do and making a difference in the lives of patients.”

[ best ]

CHIROPRACTOR

Kauffman Chiropractic

7620 E 109th Ave . Crown Point, Ind. . 219.662.9855 100 W 84th Dr . Merrillville, Ind. . 219.736.7363 kauffmanchiros.com

2000 Roosevelt Rd Valparaiso, Ind. 219.531.9419 nwicp.com

THIRD PLACE

The Heart Institute at Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point 1201 S Main St Crown Point, Ind. 219.757.6142 stanthonymedicalcenter.com

With five doctors and two locations, Kauffman Chiropractic uses its time and talent to deliver what patients want — results. “Patients are looking for a drug free, non-surgical solution to their neck pain, back pain and headaches, and chiropractic provides this,” says Dr. Robert Kauffman. Drs. Robert and Danielle Kauffman, Darcy Diehl, Ryan Porterfield, and Brian Jackson bring more than 50 years’ combined experience, putting their patients’ needs first. Providing effective, comprehensive pain relief, stabilization, and maintenance not only helps patients get better — it helps them stay better. Dr. Robert Kauffman means it when he says, “We are committed to helping people from the region live healthy, active lives.”

SECOND PLACE

HealthSource

11065 Broadway Crown Point, Ind. 219.663.3003 healthsourcechiro.com

Northwest Indiana Cardiovascular Physicians

THIRD PLACE

Dr. John Kostidis Kostidis Chiropractic 4004 N Campbell St Valparaiso, Ind. 219.465.1140 kostidischiropractic.com

photo [bottom] courtesy of KAUFFMAN CHIROPRACTIC

Health Care

CARDIOLOGY CARE

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

For 3 Straight yearS!! aw ay f r o m h o m e . 810 Michael Drive • Chesterton, IN

221 US Hwy 41 • Suite A • Schererville, IN

Mon-Thurs: 8am-7pm; Fri 8am-5pm; Sat 8am-4pm

OPEN 24 HOURS, SEVEN DAYS A WEEK

219-983-9832

219-865-6969

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FranciscanAlliance.org/Omni

Visit us and experience our friendly staff and surroundings. Call today and join the Omni Health & Fitness family!

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

Thank You for Making Us

#1 Chiropractor in NW Indiana

Helping people recover from low back pain, neck pain, headaches, stiffness and immobility for 22+ years and we’re ready to help you today!

KO S t I d I S C h I rO P r aC t I C C l I N I C

Pat I e N t C e N t e r e d C a r e Where Our FOCuS IS you w w w. ko s t i d i s c h i r o p ra c t i c . c o m 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 CO.

Serving NW Indiana Since 1989 Merrillville | 100 West 84th Drive | (219) 736-7363 Crown Point | 7620 East 109th Avenue | (219) 662-9855

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 35

Health Care [ best ] DENTIST Dyer Family Dentistry

890 Richard Rd Dyer, Ind. 219.322.1326 dyerfamilydentist.com

o one necessarily loves going to the dentist, except possibly the patients of Dyer Family Dentistry. Serving generations of patients for over 30 years, the talented staff at the Dyer dental office is committed to providing not only excellent customer service, but also the ‘total solution’ when it comes to your mouth care. “We see patients of all ages for everything from a simple checkup to a full mouth rehabilitation,” explains Dr. Irfan Atcha, who often can be found volunteering via various community organizations. “The mouth is the entryway to the rest of the body, and recent studies have shown how a healthy mouth will have a direct affect on one’s overall health.”

SECOND PLACE

Northwest Oral Surgeons 601A US Highway 30 Schererville, Ind. 219.322.0501

548 Ridge Rd, Suite G Munster, Ind. 219.836.0004 northwestoralsurgeons.com

THIRD PLACE

Schererville Family Dentistry 1050 Caroline Ave Schererville, Ind. 219.322.3232 nwidentist.com

  Thank you     



for voting us     



#1 in the region!

    Our friendly, professional team is 

   ready to serve you and      We are in network with these insurances for your convenience.       Have Dental problems?   



your family

Dr. Alavanja, Dr. Pieters and the entire

Dyer Family Schererville Family Dentistry staff wish to Dentistry Has  tHe solution! Thank You for voting us • Comprehensive Exam with Doctor   • Comprehensive Exam with the Hygienist Complementary  • Panorex x-ray • Four Bite-Wing x-rays    Best Dentist/Dental Center & Best Customer second options    neW patient  Welcome! Service 4 Years in a Row! WelCome oFFer!    219-227-4509 Exclusively for new patients without insurance only. ($250 ValuE) Offer valid thru June 30, 2012 We are honored by this award and welcome  www.DyerFamilyDentistry.com

2-1 teeth whitening available for your wedding party and for your grads!

new patients to come experience the trust others have placed in our team.

Robert Pieters, D.D.S. & Ray Alavanja, D.D.S.

Call to schedule a check up for your family

Monday 12pm-9pm Tuesday 9am-6pm Wednesday 9am-5pm Thursday 9am-5pm Friday 8am-2pm

36 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

Call 219-322-3232 or E-mail for your next appointment today! sfamdent@gmail.com • nwidentist.com 1050 Caroline Ave., Schererville, IN Open early & late for Your Convenience Mon. - Thurs. 7am-9pm • Friday 8am-5pm

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

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

221 US Route 41, Suite A Schererville, Ind. 219.865.6969 810 Michael Dr Chesterton, Ind. 219.983.9832 franciscanalliance.org/omni

For more than 35 years, Omni Health & Fitness has served as Northwest Indiana’s complete health and fitness center. With locations in both Schererville and Chesterton, Omni has remained steadfast in its mission to provide people of all ages the very best in fitness and wellness training. “There is much more to the idea of ‘wellness’ than just filling a room with fitness equipment,” explains Marci Crozier, Regional Director of Marketing and Sales. “We strive to take care of the whole individual and the services we can provide to them is all encompassing. Our certified and educated staff is here to make everyone who walks through our doors feel comfortable and welcome.”

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

SECOND PLACE

Community Hospital Fitness Pointe

9950 Calumet Ave Munster, Ind. 219.924.5348 comhs.org

THIRD PLACE

Valparaiso Family YMCA

1201 Cumberland Crossing Dr Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.4185 valpoymca.org

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 37

Health Care

[ best ] ORTHOPEDIC PRACTICE Lakeshore Bone and Joint Institute

[ best ]

HOSPITAL Community Hospital 901 MacArthur Blvd . Munster, Ind. 219.836.1600 . comhs.org

ommunity Hospital in Munster, Ind., is distinguished nationally for its high-quality care, having been named one of HealthGrades® America’s 50 Best Hospitals 2008-2012, based on quality outcomes. Community Hospital is the only Indiana hospital to receive this national ranking for quality and patient safety. “We are proud of our staff’s efforts that have placed us among HealthGrades® America’s 50 Best Hospitals five years in a row,” says Don Fesko, CEO of Community Hospital. “This achievement is a testament to the systems we have in place, and the doctors and healthcare professionals who put quality and excellence in patient care first.”

38 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

SECOND PLACE

Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point 1201 S Main St Crown Point, Ind. 219.738.2100 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 franciscanstmargaret.org

“Over half a century of experience-that’s what Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute has accomplished in the healthcare field. From sports related injuries to total joint replacements and arthritic conditions in the aging adult, the doctors at Lakeshore Bone and Joint Institute provide the most outstanding orthopedic care in Northwest Indiana,” says Susan Gervais, chief operating officer at LBJI. “Our expert physician team specializes in orthopedic care including joint replacement, spine surgery, hand and upper extremity surgery pain management rheumatology and podiatry. We utilize minimally invasive surgical techniques, state of the art diagnostic equipment and therapy services to help our patients get back to being their best,” Gervais says.

SECOND PLACE

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

THIRD PLACE

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

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

photography [left] courtesy of COMMUNITY HOSPITAL, [right] by TONY V. MARTIN | THE TIMES

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

Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists F i r s t i n p r o v e n pA i n S o l U t i o n S • F i r s t i n pAt i e n t C A r e 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.

ExpEriEncE

More doctors, nurses and hospital workers choose us for treatment of their own back pain! At M.I.S.S., patients have access to a wealth of experience in spine care and minimally invasive procedures. We are at the forefront of the latest technology in medical and surgical pain management services.

pEacE of Mind

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.

SpEciaLiZing in

Not only spine pain but all types of chronic pain, e.g., arthritis pain, sciatica, whiplash and work injuries.

Thank you for Voting Us

Best Pain ManageMent 2 Years in a Row and

Best sPine Care

Munster • 8840 Calumet Ave Suite 103 Merrillville • 333 W. 89th Suite W5 CheSterton • 1100 S. Calumet road Unit 1 SChererville • 505 US hwy 30 (219) 836-7246 or (877) 934-7246

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 39

Health Care

HealthSource

11065 Broadway Crown Point, Ind. 219.663.3003 healthsourcechiro.com Dr. Nick Goins and Dr. Mitch Monday know physical therapy patients need both caring and expertise. “Physical therapy patients love coming to HealthSource because of the caring and friendly environment, but it is the depth of expertise and one-on-one attention received that truly resonates with them,” says Goins. At HealthSource, an extensive evaluation identifies the root cause of pain and assesses biomechanics. The assessment informs the tailored rehabilitation plan designed for each individual patient, unlike many offices that provide the same “cookie-cutter” exercises for everyone, explains Monday. “You know you will receive the best, most innovative and comprehensive care as a patient at HealthSource.”

Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists

idwest Interventional Spine Specialists take time to listen to patients’ stories, says Dr. Shaun Kondamuri. “Before coming to us, so many patients have lost hope, feeling they have no choice but to use pain medication and continue to suffer.” After MRI scans and other special tests are studied, safe technologies Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists. Front row, and treatments are used from left: Saveen Kondamuri, M.D., Rita Franzen, to alleviate pain. “We take N.P., Satish Dasari, M.D. Back row, from left: Vijay pride that we are able Gupta, M.D., Mary Malick, N.P. Lynne Anton, office to successfully return administrator, Shaun Kondamuri, M.D our patients to normal functioning without the need for surgery,” says Kondamuri. Then, “If they truly need surgery, we make certain that they get the best care possible. They trust us to guide them down the path to a healthy, pain-free life.”

[ best ] SPINE CARE

SECOND PLACE

Lakeshore Bone and Joint Institute 601 Gateway Blvd Chesterton, Ind. 219.921.1444

THIRD PLACE

Community Hospital comhs.org

40 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

spinecaremw.com

Community Spine & Neurosurgery Institute 801 MacArthur Blvd, Suite 405 Munster, Ind. 219.836.5167

1600 S. Lake Park Ave, Suite 1102 Hobart, Ind. 219.942.6510 communityspineandbrain.com

THIRD PLACE

Pinnacle Hospital 9301 Connecticut Dr Crown Point, Ind. 219.756.2100 pinnaclehealthcare.net

SECOND PLACE

Spine Care Specialists

SECOND PLACE

730 45th St . Munster, Ind. 219.924.3300 . spinecarespecialists.com

t Spine Care Specialists, patients receive comprehensive services, from compassionate, expert care to an extensive online patienteducation resource. “We feel privileged to serve Northwest Indiana and the South Chicago region with state-of-the-art spine care and look forward to continuing to provide our patients with excellent outcomes,” says Dr. Nitin Khanna, M.D., adding the doctors are “humbled by national recognition,’ and thank their dedicated staff. The specialized spine care is exceptional, quickly becoming the model for excellence, notes Dr. Dwight Tyndall, M.D. “We are fortunate to have been recognized for our achievements in minimally invasive and comprehensive spine care. “We plan to continue to offer unsurpassed care to the residents of this great area,” says Tyndall.

Community Hospital comhs.org

THIRD PLACE

Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists 8840 Calumet Ave, Suite 103 Munster, Ind. 219.836.7246 spinecaremw.com

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

photo courtesy of MIDWEST INTERVENTIONAL SPINE SPECIALISTS

[ best ] PHYSICAL THERAPY

[ best ] PAIN MANAGEMENT

1st place in Best Spine Care and Best of Winner two years in a row!

State of the Art

in Spine Care

Offering the full spectrum of Spine Care. 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. • Comprehensive Diagnostic Services • Conservative Treatment Approaches • Latest Minimally Invasive Options • Dedicated Workers’ Compensation Coordinator

730 45th St., Munster, IN 46321 · (219) 924-3300 www.spinecarespecialists.com A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 41

Health Care [ best ] PEDIATRIC CARE

The doctors and staff at Kid’s First Pediatrics.

Kids First Pediatrics 1160 Joliet St Dyer, Ind. 219.322.8534 dtmd4kids.com

42 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

Where Kids Really Come First! • Get your school physical here! • Welcoming new patients from infants to adolescents. • Office complete with well and sick waiting rooms and state-of-the-art technology

1160 Joliet Street, Suite 103 • Dyer, IN • 219.322.8534 • www.DTMD4Kids.com

Parul G. Pathak MD, FAAP

Nancy Albright MD, FAAP

Kenan Qin MD

Tae’Ni Chang-Stroman MD, FAAP

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

photo [this page] courtesy of KIDS FIRST PEDIATRICS

1 We want to thank all of our parents and patients for such recognition, always doing our best to provide the best caring service for your child.

The doctors and staff at Kids First Pediatrics work hard to give their patients the care they need and deserve. “We feel appreciative that people choose to come here. We honestly care about our patients and want the best for them,” says Jacqueline Chang-Stroman, practice manager. The practice currently consists of board certified pediatricians Drs Stroman, Pathak and Albright, and a fourth doctor will start seeing patients in July. Dr. Kenan Qin comes from University of Chicago and is a general pediatrician as well as pediatric endocrinologist. All of the doctors make their phone numbers available to patients for after-hour concerns. They try to prevent patients from

having to go to urgent care or the emergency room if not necessary. “Whether it’s patient care or billing, we really try to help people out,” Chang-Stroman says.

TIED FOR SECOND PLACE

Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Michigan City 301 W Homer St Michigan City, Ind. 219.879.8511 saintanthonymemorial.org

Community Hospital

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

World-class, Comprehensive

Neurosurgical and Spine Services

right here in the

Heart of Northwest Indiana.

Thank you for voting us on of the best hospitals with Pain Management!

MarC LevIN, M.D., NeuroSurgeoN WayeL KaaKajI, M.D., NeuroSurgeoN MoHaMMaD S. SHuKaIry, M.D., NeuroSurgeoN

801 MacArthur Blvd, Suite 405, Munster

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

219-942-6510

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

www.PinnaClehealthCare.net

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 43

EDITOR’S CHOICE

[ best ]

FEEL GOOD DOCTORS FOR YOUR FEET

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

Friendly Foot Care In this ever hectic world we live in, it’s often easy to find a way to live with pain. Whether it’s the hassle of making a doctor’s appointment or just the sheer lack of time, we often tend to ignore rather than treat the source of pain, from a headache to a foot ache. Yet, the talented staff at Friendly Foot Care in Crown Point are focused on making sure that you lead a pain-free life, especially when it comes to your feet. “Some people think foot pain is normal,” explains Dr. Michael Nirenberg of Friendly Foot Care. “Foot pain is not normal and pain is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. If you have pain, you need to see us. Oftentimes, heel, foot or ankle pain can be quickly and easily alleviated. The biggest lament we hear from happy, pain-free patients is ‘I wish I had come in sooner’. Celebrating their 20th year of providing superb heel, foot and ankle care, Friendly Foot Care is dedicated to putting the needs of each and every one of their patients first.”Our philosophy is to try to treat every patient as we would want to be treated,” says Dr.Nirenberg, who works daily alongside Dr. Michael Lacey. “We pride ourselves on really getting to know our patients and addressing any special needs or concerns they may have. Getting to know each patient personally creates a warm, caring environment for the patient and it is good medicine.” Not only are they known for their exemplary ‘patient service’, the Friendly Foot Care team also routinely use the most advanced cutting-edge technology to alleviate heel, foot and ankle pain. “We often use hi-tech fiber optic cameras to help lessen arthritis in the ankle or when addressing heel pain,” explains Dr. Nirenberg. “We are also one of the only podiatry practices to offer fluoroscopy, which is real-time imaging of the bones of the foot and ankle as they move.” Longtime patients have come to expect respect, compassion and warmth in addition to a thorough and complete medical visit for first time patients. “We take a complete medical history, including blood pressure check,”he says. “By being thorough, we often find problems that many people do not even realize they have, such as diabetes, thyroid problems or other even more serious diseases.” Their dedication to their patients often spills into the community, as the Friendly Foot Care team can often be found volunteering their time and services throughout Northwest Indiana. “This past Christmas we worked with our patients to collect food donations for the Indiana Food Bank and we ended up with over 350 pounds of food for needy people,” recalls Dr. Nirenberg. “It was really rewarding, and a lot of fun!”

10020 Donald S Powers Dr Munster, Ind. 219.934.8869 comhs.org

[ best ] URGENT CARE Franciscan Hammond Clinic 7905 Calumet Ave Munster, Ind. 219.836.5800 hammondclinic.com

ranciscan Hammond Clinic’s Urgent Care department is open 365 days a year because urgent cases

can’t wait. The Urgent Care department provides treatment to patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly. “And, with more than 28 medical specialties on-site, our urgent care physicians have immediate access to consults with specialists, ensuring that most any issue can be evaluated

diagnosis of breast cancer remains one of women’s greatest fears. Yet, Community Hospital’s Women’s Diagnostic Centers home-like surroundings and same-day results options have made the center one of the Best of Region. “We care deeply about the patients who entrust themselves to us for care,” says Mary Nicholson, M.D., fellowship-trained, dedicated breast radiologist at Community Hospital and regional director of breast imaging services for Community Healthcare System.

and solved quickly,” says Cynthia Sanders, M.D., FCCP. “Patient care coordination by use of an Electronic Medical Record and a PACS system for immediate retrieval of X-ray studies only furthers our efforts to provide patients the best and most efficient care possible.”

SECOND PLACE

Community Hospital comhs.org

THIRD PLACE

Franciscan ExpressCare

12800 Mississippi Pkwy Crown Point, Ind. 219.662.5700 1225 E Coolspring Ave Michigan City, Ind. 219.873.2919 2307 LaPorte Ave, Suite 8 Valparaiso, Ind. 219.476.8855 franciscanstmargaret.org

photo [this page] by TONY V. MARTIN | THE TIMES

Health Care

“Through education, support and guidance we’re working to help the women who visit us feel the importance and love that we feel for them. We try to provide care for others as we, ourselves, would want to be cared for.”

SECOND PLACE

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

24 Joliet St Dyer, Ind. 219.865.2141 franciscanstmargaret.org

THIRD PLACE

Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point 1201 S Main St Crown Point, Ind. 219.738.2100 stanthonymedicalcenter.com

Affiliated with Community Hospital, recipient of HealthGrades® 2009/2010 & 2010/2011 Women’s Health Excellence AwardTM

are.com

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

ndlyfootc www.frie

Voting r o F u o Y T CARE O Thank O F Y L D FRIEN

BEST IST DIATRrOWW! !

PTWOO YEARS IN A RO earS in

Three y

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

WaLk Happy agaiN!

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

www.comhs.org may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 45

[ best ] DOWNTOWN

Living

MICHIGAN New Buffalo

harborcountry.org

ubbed “The Gateway to Michigan,” New Buffalo, Mich., offers everything from shopping to windsurfing. Visitors find small boutique shops with clothing, a dazzling variety of gift items they’ll want for themselves, and eateries ranging from noshon-the-go hot dogs, to friendly pubs, to upscale cuisine. At the end of the main drag is the Lake Michigan beach, for sunbathers, windsurfers, boaters, and the annual Ship to Shore Festival. “People keep coming back to New Buffalo because there is something for everyone,” says Viki Gudas, executive director of the Harbor Country Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a great place to visit for a day or longer.”

SECOND PLACE

St. Joseph sjtoday.org

THIRD PLACE

Saugatuck/Douglas saugatuck.com

[ best ] DOWNTOWN

[ best ] DOWNTOWN NW INDIANA Crown Point crownpoint.in.gov

A truly unique and treasured destination, Crown Point’s “Courthouse Square Historic Downtown” as it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places is the place to be all year long for shopping, dining and coming together as a community. “It brings people out of their homes to get involved with each other,” Mayor David Uran says. “Crown Point’s downtown is also considered a destination for people to tour the Old Lake County Courthouse, Old Sheriff’s House, Old Homestead, and several nearby historic districts.” As part of the ongoing efforts to sustain the City of Crown Point’s downtown, the Mayor’s Office of Special Events hosts fabulous seasonal celebrations and outstanding community events including the St. Patrick’s Night Time Parade, City Wide Picnic, Kid’s and Kites, YMCA Hub Run,

owntown Chicago has attractions, amenities, and accommodations to fit every taste. In fact, sometimes the choices can seem a bit overwhelming, so a start at the official Visitor Centers, located at Chicago Water Works, 163 E. Pearson St., or the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph St. may help to narrow down the selections. Here you can pick up helpful brochures and travel maps cityofchicago.org or talk with one of the friendly, knowledgeable visitor services representatives to make the most of your visit. Another way to maximize Chicago’s downtown is by taking a tour to see the city and learn about Chicago’s history, people and culture. Choose from walking SECOND PLACE tours, neighborhood excursions and self-guided audio tours. Travel by trolley, bus, boat or bike. In addition to the major sights and attractions, you can focus on everything from shopping and gardening to cemeteries lansingdowntown.com and the Great Chicago Fire. But if shopping, dining, and nightlife are your calling, then look no further than Chicago’s downtown, known THIRD PLACE as the Magnificent Mile. This stretch of Michigan Avenue boasts both historic and brand new boutique hotels to fit every budget; restaurants from a quick sandwich to romantic fondue; famous national chains and unique one-of-a-kind shops; and dance clubs, cruise ships, or comedy hegewisch.biz clubs to give those in the region the feeling of truly getting away for the burnham.pausetime.com weekend.

ILLINOIS

Chicago

Lansing

Hegewisch/ Burnham

Dog Days of Summer, Oktoberfest and the Winter Market. Major regional events including the LPGA Futures Tour and the NSA World Series have also enjoyed the many benefits of Crown Point’s downtown and hospitality.

SECOND PLACE

Valparaiso

ci.valparaiso.in.us

THIRD PLACE

Whiting

whitingindiana.com

[ best ] PLACE TO LIVE ILLINOIS

C Chicago

cityofchicago.org

photography [this page] by JOHN LUKE | THE TIMES; [opposite page, clockwise from top] by April Burford, Tony V. Martin | The Times, courtesy of WORLD BUSINESS CHICAGO

hicago’s culture, infrastructure, restaurants, museums and sports teams make the city a unique - and favorite - place to live. “Chicago offers something for everyone - it is truly a global city, with a depth and diversity in not only its people, but in lifestyle options,” says Rita Athas, president of World Business Chicago. Known as an “urban value,” Chicago has a cost of living lower than several other major cities, including New York, San Francisco, Boston, and Washington, D.C. More than 600 stores line Michigan Avenue and its surrounding streets, and the city is home to 10 professional sports teams. Chicago has more SECOND PLACE than 35 museums, and a 3,700Beecher mile public transit network of villageofbeecher.org trains and buses makes it easy THIRD PLACE to travel the city. Hegewisch/ “Whether your interest is in Burnham music, sports, food, museums, hegewisch.net parks, theater, higher education burnham.pausetime.com or creative culture, the city is second to none,” Athas says.

[ best ] PLACE TO LIVE MICHIGAN

New Buffalo newbuffalo.org

New Buffalo, Mich., enjoys an appealing combination of convenient location and yearround attractions. “It’s such a central location to big cities for busy work and play,” notes Rose Strother, executive director of the New Buffalo Business Association. “Then, coming home to New Buffalo is a peaceful

retreat for unwinding and enjoying nature at its best.” The attractive town at the edge of Lake Michigan offers a well-tended and beautiful beach, family-oriented parks, and plenty of local shopping and attractions. It’s no surprise that New Buffalo is recognized by readers as a great place to live. After all, “It’s our little piece of paradise!” says Strother.

SECOND PLACE

St. Joseph sjtoday.org

THIRD PLACE

Saugatuck/ Douglas saugatuck.com

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Lilly Johnson of Crown Point pushes a stroller with a doll and her dog, Rigby in the annual Hub Dollie Parade around Crown Point’s Square and the Old Courthouse.

[ best ]

PLACE TO LIVE NW INDIANA

Crown Point

crownpoint.in.gov

deally situated and commonly known as the “Hub of Lake County,” Crown Point provides top notch services including police, fire, public works and park facilities for the benefit of all residents, as well as consistently excellent education for students of the Crown Point Community School Corporation. Under the watchful eye of Mayor David Uran’s administration, Crown Point remains one of the premier places to live and conduct business not just in northwest Indiana, but in the entire state and even the Midwest. “We’re very family-oriented, and we’re a very safe community,” Mayor Uran says. SECOND PLACE “The progress Crown Point has achieved Valparaiso in the last couple of years has been exciting ci.valparaiso.in.us and gratifying. As we continue ‘Building a Stronger Community from Within,’ Crown THIRD PLACE Point remains destined to stand out among Munster its notable neighbors.” ci.munster.in.us

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 47

Living [ best ] PLACE TO WORSHIP

[ best ]

PLACE TO VOLUNTEER

St. Mary Catholic Church

Humane Society of Northwest Indiana

525 N Broad St . Griffith, Ind. 219.924.4163 . smgriffith.org

Volunteers are the backbone of any organization, says Betty Clayton, executive director of the Humane Society of Northwest Indiana. This small animal shelter was founded in 1913 and moved to its present location in the Miller Beach area to increase its visibility more than 20 years ago. With only six employees, the Humane Society of Northwest Indiana relies on its 75 volunteers to help walk the dogs, brush and groom the animals, play with cats and kittens, socialize puppies and provide clerical assistance, Clayton says. In addition volunteers help plan fundraisers and Tag Days that bring in needed resources.

SECOND PLACE

United Way unitedway.org

THIRD PLACE

Meals on Wheels

8446 Virginia St Merrillville, Ind. 219.756.3663

48 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

Centier associates participated in the Making Strides for Breast Cancer Walk.

[ best ] PLACE TO WORK

W Centier Bank

centierbank.com

ith family flexibility, wellness programs and a program that helps associates going through difficult times, Centier Bank is a favorite place to work among its employees. “We will bend over backward to accommodate the family needs that arise with our associates,” says Chrisanne Christ, vice president of human resources. With 45 locations, Centier also offers a CARE program that helps associates in need with paying bills and buying groceries. Associates also can donate personal time off days to help others who have special circumstances where they’ve used SECOND PLACE theirs up, Christ says. Franciscan “We also have a ton of different Alliance wellness programs to fit the needs and Hospitals interests of our associates - health screenings and onsite flu shots, a franciscanalliance.org pedometer program, yoga, Zumba, THIRD PLACE boot camp and more,” Christ says. “We Citizens have reflexology and massage therapy Financial Bank services once a week, and have an onsite fitness center in Merrillville.” mybankcitizens.com

St. Mary’s Pastor Theodore J. Mens says he is blessed with a dedicated staff and many volunteers who put in extra time because it comes from their hearts and their love of God. Volunteers staff the church festival in August and parents raise school funds through Bingo and other events. “We have a wonderful group of volunteers who work on improving the environment in our church and on our grounds,” Mens says. A traditional Catholic Church providing a place of serenity, St. Mary’s still has some of the original statutes from the 1920’s and 1950’s. The church is open all day for people to pray. Church groups include Sodality, the Men’s Club, choir, School Advisory Board, scouts, liturgy commission, and a garden club. “We try to be very welcoming when people come to register,” Mens says. “We are always available to our parishioners.”

SECOND PLACE

St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church 1 W Wilhelm St Schererville, Ind. 219.322.4505 stmichaels-parish.org

THIRD PLACE

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church 3530 Illinois St Hobart, Ind. 219.962.1073 home.catholicweb.com

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

photo [top] courtesy of CENTIER BANK

6100 Melton Road (US Hwy 20) Gary, Ind. . 219.938.3339 millercritters.net

[ best ] RETIREMENT/ ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY

Thanks for Voting us The Best!

Hartsfield Village Hartsfield Village offers its residents a full continuum of lifestyle options and health As Northwest Indiana residents continue to live care services. 10000 Columbia Ave . Munster, Ind. 219.934.0750 . hartsfieldvillage.com

longer and stay healthier as they age, a place like Hartsfield Village in Munster is thriving. • Independent Living Providing independent and assisted living opportunities, the continuing care retirement • Assisted Living community is enjoying their 13th year of providing their residents the opportunity to • Memory“Our Support live carefree in a flourishing environment. residents come here to begin the next chapter of their life,” explains Kevin Orze, Director Care and Rehabilitation • Nursing of Marketing at Hartsfield Village. “Since we handle the mundane activities such as housekeeping and maintenance, our residents have more time to explore and engage and enjoy in our wealth of on-site amenities.”

SECOND PLACE THIRD Hospital PLACE Sponsored by Community

St. Anthony Brentwood Continuing Care Retirement Community Home -AFranciscan at LaPorte Andrew Ave Communities 10000 Columbia Avenue2002 • LaPorte, Munster, IN 46321 Ind. 203 Franciscan Dr 219.325.1599 (219) 934-0750 (800) 297-6188 Crown Point, Ind. emeritus.com/Indiana/laporte/ 219.661.5100 brentwood-laporte stanthonyhome.com www.hartsfieldvillage.com

ApArtments now AvAilAble, tour our model todAy! Sponsored by Community Hospital

Sponsored by Community Hospital

Forbes com

Munster, IN Voted Top 25

Best Suburb for Retirement Living

A Continuing Care Retirement Community

Hartsfield Village offers its residents a full continuum of lifestyle options and health care services: • Independent Living • Assisted Living • Memory Support • Skilled Nursing/Rehabilitation (219) 934-0750 (800) 297-6188 10000 Columbia Avenue Munster, IN • www.hartsfieldvillage.com

Thank you for voting us as a top choice for

Best

ASSISTED/RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

by the Franciscan Sisters of Chicago, St. Anthony Home Take advantage of current incentives and move in NOW! Sponsored and Assisted Living strives to honor the dignity of life by serving as APARTMENTS NOW AVAILABLE a compassionate community. Inquire today about any of the services in our unique continuum of care: • Assisted Living • Home Care (medical and non-medical) • Skilled and Intermediate Care • Hospice (inpatient and in-home) • Memory Care • Adult Day Services • Child Care

for voting us #1 BEST FESTIVAL and #3 Best Downtown! For more information visit www.whitingindiana.com Refining the Heart of Community

ESTABLISHED 1889

Call (219) 661-5150 today to schedule a personal appointment to learn more about our services.

S T. ANTHONY H O M E

203 Franciscan Dr., Crown Point, IN 46307 www.stanthonyhome.com/np

FRANCISCAN COMMUNITIES Sponsored by the Franciscan Sisters of Chicago

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 49

Levin Tire

T levintirecenter.com

his marks the third straight year Levin Tire & Service Center was named “Best Car Repair Store” in the Times “Best of the Region.” There’s no doubt great customer service and quality auto service is the reason. Levin Tire has made quality and safety a top priority, which is evident through investments in state-of-theart equipment and tools. Their service mechanics are ASE certified which means they continually train on new technology and safety standards. This, combined with delivering the most SECOND PLACE personal, professional Crown Point Auto and affordable service, Repair & is what gives them an Restoration LLC edge over competitors. 1510 North Main St All seven locations, Crown Point, Ind. including their newest 219.663.1847 in Winfield, offer such crownpointautorepair.com services as oil changes, brakes, alignments, THIRD PLACE fluid exchanges, Heinhold & shocks/struts, heating Feller Tire Co. and air conditioning, 1707 East Lincolnway batteries, belts/hoses, Valparaiso, Ind. and transmission 219.462.5191 service. heinold-feller.com

[ best ]

BANK

Centier Bank centier.com

amed the “Best Bank” in the 2012 Best of the Region contest, Centier Bank is now the largest privately-owned independent bank in Indiana and remains committed to being owned and operated by the Schrage family in the future. “We are honored to be so highly regarded in the communities we serve,” says Mike Schrage, president & CEO. “Our clients always come first...We will continue to provide them with services and conveniences that fit SECOND PLACE their lifestyles.” Among the Chase services introduced by Centier chase.com in 2011 were the debut of the bank’s Facebook page, mobile THIRD PLACE banking and a partnership Citizens with the MoneyPass® fee-free Financial Bank mybankcitizens.com ATM network.

photo by TONY V. MARTIN | THE TIMES

Services

[ best ] CAR REPAIR STORE

Got a Kindle™ Fire? We’ve got an App for you.

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BEST

The Times NeWs App

Same trusted content on all your favorite devices. search for NWi Times in the Amazon store or go to nwi.com/kindle. Scan to download your FREE app today.

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344 Kennedy Ave, Schererville, IN 46375 219-864-1551 | www.cliffsheating.com

download it FREE today! Scan with iPad to download

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Largest Dealer in NW Indiana Reliably serving Indiana & Illinois homes since 1979 Financing Available

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 51

Services [ best ]

CAR WASH

Soft Touch

1303 Vale Park Rd Valparaiso, Ind. 219.477.4566 1492 Main St Crown Point, Ind. 219.662.1648

6262 Broadway Merrillville, Ind. 219.980.2493 costascompanies.com/ costascarwash

[ best ] HEATING/ COOLING Meyer’s Heating & Cooling

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

SECOND PLACE

Illiana Heating & Cooling 11407 Wicker Ave Cedar Lake, Ind. 219.365.0006 708.895.0006 illianaheating.net

52 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

or the fourth year in a row, Meyer’s Heating & Cooling has been named “Best Heating & Cooling” service in the Best of the Region 2012 contest. Quality service and customer

“Our people make the difference,” says Jay Costas, owner of Soft Touch Car Wash, named “the Best Car Wash” in the Best of the Region 2012 contest. The staff preps your vehicle. The wash system uses premium detergents, fresh softened water and soft cloths followed by a very powerful rinse system. Dryers use 4 million BTUs of heat, the only hot air dryers in the area. Every wash also includes a vacuum token and a magic towel. The “Works Carwash” includes an underbody wash, SECOND PLACE rust inhibitor, wheel Drive & Shine 1350 US Route 41 brightener and brake Schererville, Ind. dust removal, and 219.865.7788 clearcoat protectant. driveandshine.com “Best of all, we’re a whole lot faster THIRD PLACE than other automatic Easy Clean myeasyclean.com washes,” Costas says.

satisfaction have made Meyer’s a household name for 60 years. “It’s all about our top-trained employees,” says Joe Yothment, co-owner of Meyer’s with Paul Starcevich. “We’re known for our 24-hour service.” Meyer’s Heating & Cooling offers the finest in residential

heating and cooling products and service, as well as commercial heating, commercial cooling, home plumbing design and plumbing repair. One call does it all for your heating, cooling, plumbing and electrical needs.

THIRD PLACE

Cliff’s Heating, Refrigeration & A/C Inc. 344 Kennedy Ave Schererville, Ind. 219.864.1551 cliffsheating.com

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

www.oilexpress.com

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

Thank you for voting us Best of the Region 2012 in Heating and Cooling and Plumbing.

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

Years

SELECT SERVICES

Oil change, transmission, radiator, differential or fuel injection services. Must have this coupon to redeem this offer. One coupon per service. Expires 06/20/2012.

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

Let us be the Stepping Stone to your Child’s Education

2645 Main Street • Highland, IN

219-923-1333 (Plaza off kennedy & main)

MEYER’S COuPON

$20 OFF

ANY SERVICE

Does Not Apply To Previous Orders

We now offer Infant Care beginning at 6 weeks of age. Heated Flooring in the Infant Room, Secured Entry, Online Camera Access, Technology in Classrooms, a Dedicated Staff Serving Us Since 1982. Separate Parent Room, Indoor Gym Area, Private Fenced Playground. • Private full day Kindergarten available at Highland and our Merrillville location • All meals and snacks included • Professional Staff, Certified in CPR and First Aid • Developmentally appropriate curriculum • Preschool based program • Age appropriate classrooms • Indoor/Outdoor play area • Before and after school care • Internet accessible video cameras for parental viewing • Infant care available at Harrison and Main St. location • State Licensed Program

FREE REGISTRATION or 50% OFF FIRST WEEKS TUITION $50 Value • Offer ends 08/27/12

NOW TAkING ENROllmENT FOR kINDERGARTEN

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www.meyersgriffith.com

N.W. INDIANA: 219/924-1999 • HOBART: 219/756-1999 • ILLINOIS: 708/891-9099 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Highland

219-923-1333 2645 main St.

Level 2

merrillville

86 E. 70th Ave.

6111 Harrison Ave

219-769-6005 219-980-5437

w w w. h a p py d ay s i n c . c o m may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 53

Services [ best ]

Child Enrichment Center of Schererville

5221 Fountain Dr . Crown Point, Ind. 219.736.5437 . childrenrichmentcenters.com

For most of us, it’s just a part of life to wake up every morning and go to work. Yet, for Child Enrichment Center of Schererville owner Jan Levy, arriving to work is usually just one of the many highlights of her day. “There is nothing as rewarding than walking in and instantly having children running up to me to give me a hug,” she says. “It’s the most wonderful feeling.” Since opening in 1992, the nurturing staff at the Center has provided children across the Northwest Indiana a fun and safe environment in which to learn and grow. “Besides offering a quality education, we also help promote their self esteem and confidence,” explains Levy.

SECOND PLACE

Wonder Years Learning Center Inc.

1838 45th Ave Munster, Ind. 219.750.1900 wonderyearslearning.com

THIRD PLACE

Happy Days Childcare & Learning Center 2645 Main St Highland, Ind. 219.923.1333

6111 Harrison St, Suite 145 Merrillville, Ind. 219.980.5437 86 East 70th Pl Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.6005 happydaysinc.com

[ best ] DOOR & WINDOW REPLACEMENT Schilling Design Center and Lumber Yard

8900 Wicker Ave . St. John, Ind. . 219.365.3005 9900 191st St . Mokena, Ill. . 708.479.7007 schillings.com

chilling has more than 1,000 door and window styles to choose from — all in a single, comfortable showroom with a professional design staff ready to answer any questions and help with your selections. Northwest Indiana and the Chicago area’s only full-line Andersen window and door distributor, Schilling has their top-of-the-line A series, 400 series, 200 series, new 100 series and Silverline vinyl all on display for you to compare.” “We also offer a huge selection of entry doors, front doors and screen doors, as well as interior doors that include closet doors and pocket doors,” Greg Schilling says. “Whether you’re looking for standard or custom doors and windows, we strive to offer aggressive pricing, the best customer service and widest selection anywhere.” The experts at Schilling also provide free estimates, blueprint takeoffs and assistance in understanding building codes.

SECOND PLACE

Fred C. Doppler & Sons, Inc.

305 North Colfax Ave . Griffith, Ind. 219.924.2270 . fredcdopplerandsons.com

THIRD PLACE

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

photo [top] courtesy of SCHILLING DESIGN CENTER AND LUMBER YARD

CHILDCARE CENTER

www.wonderyearslearning.com www.wonderyearslearning.com

Mon - Fri 6 AM - 11:30 PM

6 Wks - 12 Yrs Old

Thank you for voting us

BEST OF THE REGION 3 years in a row!

Now accepting applications for:

EVENING CARE SUMMER CAMP FALL REGISTRATION FREE REGISTRATION or $100 OFF TUITION* * some restrictions apply

219.750.1900

LEVEL 3

1838 45th Ave, Munster, IN 46321 www.wonderyearslearning.com

OFFERING:

Pre-School / Pre-K Full Childcare Before / After School Bus Transportation In/ Outdoor Play Areas A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Security Classroom Cameras with Parent Web-Access may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 55

Services [ best ]

ELECTRICIAN Cedar Electric

(new location coming soon!) Cedar Lake, Ind. 219.313.2588

29356 State Line Rd Beecher, Ill. 708.825.3610 cedarelectric.org

SECOND PLACE

All Services Electric, LLC

10706 W 133rd Ave, Suite 3 Cedar Lake, Ind. 877.899.1824 allserviceselectric.net

THIRD PLACE

D&K Electric Ltd. 105 Stone Creek Dr Valparaiso, Ind. 219.464.7576 electricdk.com

ith power outages occurring more frequently and often lasting longer than ever before, people are searching for a solution that will give them peace of mind. Since 1999, Cedar Electric has been answering the call of area residents, installing Generac automatic standby generators so when the power goes out, they are protected 24/7. “This is the third straight year we’ve been recognized as Best of the Region,” Cedar Electric’s owner Kevin Hart says. “We are an elite Generac dealer, so all of our technicians are fully-trained and Generac-certified. Since we put our first one in 1999, I would say we’ve been doing 200+ installs a year.” From a basic automatic standby generator with enough energy to run your furnace, refrigerator, 2 sump pumps, well and family room to a selection of wholehouse options, Cedar Electric offers free in-home consultations so you can choose the right option to protect your home and family.

AUTOMATIC STANDBY GENERATORS

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

Be prepareD For YoUr neXt poWer oUtage

3rd Year In A Row!

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 w/200 amp transfer switch (a/C Capable) ............. $4,880 17,000 watt w/200 amp transfer switch (a/C Capable) ............. $5,580

[ best ] FINANCIAL ADVISOR Wells Fargo

wellsfargo.com

Do you know where you stand when it comes to reaching your financial goals? 98% of Wells Fargo Envision® plan holders know where they stand, according to a survey conducted by Harris Interactive. Wells Fargo Financial Advisors provide a wide range of services — from helping you select individual investments to developing a retirement plan. With access to the company’s broad array resources, including world-class economic and market research experts, they can help develop and monitor strategies that meet your financial goals using the Envision planning process. Designed to help you live and retire the way you want, the Envision process combines goal-based advice with sophisticated modeling so you can prioritize and achieve your goals without undue financial sacrifice or overexposure to risk.

SECOND PLACE

Oak Partners 55 West 94th Pl Crown Point, Ind. 219.661.4100 oakpartners.com

THIRD PLACE

Horizon Bank accesshorizon.com

We are Residential Specialists. Our number one Goal is to deliver superior quality with up front pricing. Our Technicians deliver expert installation every time.

Thank you for voting us one of the Best of the Region!

50 OFF aNy serVICe

With this coupon ONLY. Not valid with any other offers. Expires 6/30/12.

24 Hours a Day • 7 Days a Week 219-374-6269 • www.allserviceselectric.net

prices Subject to Change

56 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Thank you for Voting Us Among the Best in the Region...We look forward to another 25 years of service to our Customers!

PARTNERS INC.

FINALLY, AN INVESTMENT YOU CAN BE COMFORTABLE WITH Call an Expert Today for a Free Estimate Armstrong Air® high-efficiency Comfort Systems can show a return on investment in energy saving that’s better than a savings account, a CD or even a 401K. And that’s not counting your enhanced property value–or enhanced comfort.

12500 Off

The Installation of Any 14 Seer of Greater High Efficient Central Air Conditioner

The Installation of any 95% High Efficient Variable Speed Furnace Some restrictions apply. Not valid with any other offer. Previous Sales exlcuded. Expires 6/30/12

Some restrictions apply. Not valid with any other offer. Previous Sales excluded. Expires 6/30/12

2500 Off

Aprilaire High-Efficient Air Cleaners

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Maintenance Contracts

Some restrictions apply. Not valid with any other offer. Previous Sales excluded. Expires 6/30/12

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Thank you for voting us Best Financial Advisor!

Retirement Strategies • Investment Planning Portfolio Management

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55 W 94th Place Crown Point , IN (219) 795-1000

A Christian Owned & Operated Company Since 1987

N.W. Indiana (219) 365-0006 Demotte (219) 987-2107 Illinois (708) 895-0006 illianaheating.net A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

100 E. Lincolnway, Ste 201 Valparaiso, IN (219) 850-1040 www.oakpartners.com

Securities and Advisory Services offered through SII Investments Inc. Member FINRA - SIPC and a Registered Investment Advisor. Oak Partners and SII Investments are separate and unrelated companies.

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 57

Services [ best ] CUSTOMER SERVICE Strack & Van Til

strackandvantil.com

For over eight decades, Strack & Van Til has been bringing the region the best in customer service. Jeff Strack, Strack & Van Til’s vice president of operations says that this premise is what sets their stores apart from the others and it’s the Strack & Van Til associates that make the difference. Tonya Tillery, Cynthia Zecevich, Kathy “Our people are a big Cachino and Sandy Janda at the part of what makes Schererville Strack and Van Til store. us different. We have people who understand our goals and our culture and work hard every day to make our customers happy that they chose to shop with us. We care about what the customer has to say about their experience. That’s why I put my email address and phone number on every customer’s shopping bag, so if someone takes the time to call or write me, I get back to them. They might have a suggestion or complaint and we want to hear them all. Over half of our customers just want to say they had a great shopping experience with us or make us aware of a great job SECOND THIRD provided by an individual PLACE PLACE associate. We encourage Centier Citizens the feedback so we can keep on top of what is going on Bank Financial center.com mybankcitizens.com in our stores,” says Strack.

THank yOu FOr vOTing us THe #1 BesT Builder FOr years in a rOw!

[ best ] HOME BUILDER Olthof Homes

8051 Wicker Ave, Suite A St. John, Ind. 219.558.8080 olthofhomes.com

SECOND PLACE

McFarland Homes 2300-A Ramblewood Dr Highland, Ind. 219.934.9885 mcfarlandhomes.net

THIRD PLACE

Accent Homes

2036 W 81st Ave (US 30) Merrillville, Ind. 219.738.2589 accent-homes.com

or more than 50 years, homebuyers throughout northwest Indiana have made Olthof Homes the builder of choice for measurable value. The company’s longstanding commitment to customer satisfaction results in exciting communities with outstanding homes at unbeatable prices - and it all starts with a dedicated team of professionals. “I can’t tell you how happy I am for our staff,” Todd Olthof says. “Every year they have worked to improve our homes and our communities. It translates into a great value for our customers.” Currently building ranch and 2-story single family homes plus maintenancefree condominiums, townhomes and villas throughout Lake and Porter counties, Olthof’s new home builder information centers are open Tuesday through Saturday. You also have the opportunity to move now with a selection of complete or nearly complete new homes always available.

Thank you for voting us One of the Best Car Repair Shops

thRee yeaRs in a Row! 16TH

16TH

THe Funs sTarTs Here!

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

219-558-8080

OlthofHomes.com

58 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

ANNU

Repair & Restoration 1510 N. Main St. • 219-663-1847 www.crownpointautorepair.com

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

[ best ]

KITCHEN & BATH REMODELING Schilling Design Center and Lumber Yard photo [opposite page, right] COURTESY OF OLTHOF HOMES, [ef] by TONY V. MARTIN | THE TIMES; [this page] courtesy of SCHILLING

8900 Wicker Ave. St. John, Ind. . 219.365.3005 9900 191st St . Mokena, Ill. . 708.479.7007 schillings.com

SECOND PLACE

Von Tobel Lumber & Hardware vontobels.com

THIRD PLACE

Auburn Supply Co., Inc. 3850 W 167th St Markham, Ill. 708.596.9800 auburnsupply.com

hen you remodel a kitchen or bathroom, it’s not just about the cabinets. That’s why Schilling’s convenient one-stop shop is favored by area residents. Starting with instock cabinets that are everyday-priced 20% lower than the box stores, Schilling gives customers what they want, when they want it, error-free and below budget, according to Greg Schillling. “Whether you’re remodeling or building, our professional design team can help with everything from full custom to rentals,” he says. “Our services include complimentary planning, 3-D renderings, interior decorating and budgeting. Plus, we’ll come out and measure to ensure your cabinets and countertops fit exactly as planned.” Schilling stocks multiple brands of cabinets and vanities, plus plumbing fixtures including Kohler. They also offer a number of countertop options including granite, Cambria, Corian, laminate and more.

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 59

Services [ best ] INSURANCE AGENT Barbara Gulden

American Family Insurance 8025 Wicker Ave, Suite C St. John, Ind. 219.365.9909 barbaragulden.com Born, raised, and still a part of “the region”, Barbara Gulden has been taking care of the insurance needs of clients for nearly four decades. “I am honored and humbled to be selected as #1 Best Insurance Agent,” she says. “My agency remains committed to professional representation, excellent award-winning customer service, a friendly,

courteous trained staff and multiple-line insurance premium packaging that meets and exceeds customer expectations. Thank you to all that have contributed to making my agency #1. We could not do it without you! When you are a part of the Barabara A. Gulden Insurance Agency, you are part of the family.”

SECOND PLACE

Jim Miskovich

State Farm 6629 West US Hwy 30, Suite 8 Schererville, Ind. 219.322.2727 jimmiskovich.com

THIRD PLACE

Connie Bernardi State Farm 1072 Joliet (US 30) Dyer, Ind. 219.322.9959 conniebernardi.com

[ best ]

[ best ] OIL CHANGE

rigorous training program. And at your neighborhood Duke of Oil you will get a quick lube and oil change at a reasonable price every 3,000 miles.

Duke of Oil

SECOND PLACE

thedukeofoil.com

he Duke of Oil has been serving Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland for more than 20 years. With 13 Chicagoland locations, 8 of them in Northwest Indiana, you’re never far away from the company named “the Best Place For An Oil Change” in The Times Best of the Region 2012 contest. The Duke of Oil staff takes pride in making certain each customer leaves satisfied and without worry. Technicians go through a

Oil Express

6747 Indianapolis Blvd Hammond, Ind. 219.844.9919 9615 Indianapolis Blvd Highland, Ind. 219.924.7840 oilexpress.com

THIRD PLACE

Portage Tire

3520 Scottsdale St Portage, Ind. 219.762.0405 portagetire.com

or over 35 years, Allen Landscape in Highland has been proudly serving Northwest Indiana homeowners who strive to create a beautiful Allen’s Landscape Centre yard. Whether designing or 2539 45th St . Highland, Ind. maintaining your landscape, the 219.961.5633 . allenlandscape.com talented staff at Allen Landscape is adequately equipped to provide you with all the knowledge to make your outdoor environment as unique as you are! “Our staff is all Indiana horticulturists and many have participated in the Master Gardener programs, so they are quite knowledgeable regarding the wide variety of landscaping services we are able to offer,” explains Bob Howard, General Manager of the Garden Center. “Our professional line of products can transform a landscape.”

LANDSCAPER

SECOND PLACE

Martin Landscaping

9961 W 109th Ave . Cedar Lake, Ind. 219.365.2424 martinlandscaping.com

60 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

THIRD PLACE

R.A.L. Landscaping & Garden Center

6616 W Lincoln Highway . Crown Point, Ind. 219.865.6439 rallandscapingandgardencenter.com

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Some products not available in every state. Health.

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Includes Needs Assessment and Rendering. Value $100. Must book your appointment by June 30, 2012

VoTING us... ThANks for

Life. Farm/Ra We offer it all under one roof.® Call me to for coverage that fits your needs. For all the insurance protection you need, plus all some you may have overlooked, me toaday. Barbara Acall Gulden Insurance Agency Some products not available

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Barbara A. Gulden Insurance Agencyin every state. 8025 Wicker Avenue, Suite C (Tri Town Commons) P.O. Box 490 • St. John, IN 46373 Phone: 219.365.9909 • bgulden@amfam.com

rIce Let us grow them into P T s e B ’s A e r The A $ 11.99 EA. the garden of your dreams. S T ALL FLA seLecTIoN GreAT

Barbara A Guld

Barbara A. Gulden 8025 Wicker Avenue, Suite C amfam.com (Tri Town Commons) © 2008 002136 — Rev. 11/08 Thank for voting us St. John, you IN 46373 Phone: the #1219.365.9909 Insurance Agent! bgulden@amfam.com

American Family American Mutual Insurance Company and its Subsidiaries Family Mutual Insurance Company American Family Insurance Company Home Office - Madison, WI 53783 © 2011 0031667 - 3/08 and its Subsidiaries American Family Insurance Company www.amfam.com Home Office — Madison, WI 53783

Visit our full-service garden center featuring a wide variety of large trees, shrubs, annuals and perennials. Not sure exactly what plant, tree or flower should go where? Ask one of our expert staff members, they will get you exactly what you need to give your yard curb appeal. If you need more than a little direction we also specialize in design and implementation of landscaping materials. We can give your yard a makeover. Hire a professional that will get the job done right the first time.

photo [opposite page, bottom] by TONY V. MARTIN | THE TIMES

for VotinG uS BESt in thE rEGion! #1 Best Landscaper, third year in a row!

* residential and Commercial design and Landscape since 1973*

10% OFF $500 OFF ALL SHRUBS &

FLOWERING PLANTS one coupon per customer. expires July 1, 2012.

ANY LANDSCAPE PROJECT OF $2500 OR MORE With this coupon. expires July 1, 2012.

Also thAnK you for voting our Garden Center one of the BESt in thE rEGion again!

Bring this Appreciation Coupon for

$5 off

your nEiGhBorhood GArdEn CEntEr for oVEr 26 yEArS!

in Highland

2539 45th Street 219-924-6076

purchase of $25 or more Good May 20-27, 2012 (Excludes Gift Certificates and Service)

MondAy - SAturdAy 8 AM - 8 pM SundAy 8 AM - 5 pM A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 61

[ best ]

PLUMBER St. John Plumbing Service

9601 N Industrial Dr St. John, Ind. 219.365.2080 stjohnplumbingservice.com

For the fourth consecutive year, St. John Plumbing Service 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 Service. This is the original St. John Plumbing Service, with experienced, licensed plumbers available 24/7 for emergency repairs to malfunctioning plumbing in homes and businesses throughout Lake and Porter counties. Spiekhout keeps three big orange trucks fully stocked with the supplies and equipment needed for any job.

[ best ] REAL ESTATE AGENT MICHIGAN Sharon Halliburton

American Homes 4532 Red Arrow Hwy Stevensville, Mich. 269.208.3862 (cell) 269.983.2526 (office) sharonhalliburton.com

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. 219.924.6972 tlcplumbing.com

St.John Plumbing Service

SAVE $50 on any service valued at $200 or more with this coupon

YOU made us #1 again!

We Install State Water Heaters.

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62 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

Michigan native, Sharon Halliburton cannot imagine living anywhere else. “It’s a special spot here,” she says. “Silver Beach has been recognized by Parents Magazine as one of the ‘Top Ten Beaches in the US’ and in Delta’s Sky Magazine as one of the ‘Top Six Beaches in the World.’ Money Magazine voted St. Joseph as one of the ‘Top 6 Places to Retire.’” She invites Northwest Indiana residents to tour the area which is hosting the Senior PGA on a newly completed Jack Nicklaus signature golf course this May

Thanks for vo

ONE OF THEtinBg me EST! For your Insurance & Financial Needs, 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®

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

photo [this page, left] courtesy of SHARON HALLIBURTON

Services

and again in 2014. “I’m totally excited about having the spotlight shine on us,” Halliburton says. “We’re just 30 minutes from the state line, and it’s a very fun place to visit, very family oriented. When you get excited about what you do and enjoy the people you work with, it’s more of a lifestyle than a job. I love my business!”

SECOND PLACE

Louis Price

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

THIRD PLACE

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 NW INDIANA

Lisa Thompson

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage 2166 45th St Highland, Ind. 219.617.5884 lisathompsonrealtor.com When Lisa Thompson joined Coldwell Banker as a real estate agent seven years ago, things were a bit different than they are right now. “It’s been a tough market lately, but I’ve been blessed with wonderful clients who serve as my referral stream,” she says. “As an independent agent who always strives to treat SECOND PLACE people the way I want to be treated, it’s Brian Rossi been about learning to work with the Rossi & Taylor Real Estate Group, LLC challenges and growing my business no 8025 Wicker Ave matter what the obstacles are.” St. John, Ind. Relying on word-of-mouth219.365.8000 advertising, Thompson prefers to focuses rossiandtaylor.com her marketing efforts on client properties. “I’m most definitely more than a THIRD PLACE full-time agent - working 24/7 to help Jana Caudill my clients succeed,” she says. “It’s given Redkey Realty Leaders me the experience necessary to keep up 503 East Summit St, Suite 1 with the changes in the market. Plus, my Crown Point, Ind. accounting and finance degree help me to 219.661.1256 see the whole picture.” janacaudillteam.com

ing t o V r o f u o Y k Than ! t n e g A e t a t s E Me #1 Real

thank you FoR Voting us

Lisa Thompson 219-617-5884

www.LisaThompsonRealtor.com A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Photo by Royce PhotogRaPhy

Hospital services Dentistry Geriatric Medicine General surgery orthopedic surgery spay & Neutering therapy laser endoscope Digital radiology Ultrasound

special services Behavioral consultation puppy classes obedience training Micro-chipping Day care prescription Diets pet Grooming pet Boarding

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 63

Services Mike and Nicholas Yadron

[ best ]

VETERINARIAN Munster Animal Hospital 10421 Calumet Ave . Munster, Ind. 219.924.0101 . munsteranimal.com

ROOFER M&M Home Remodeling Services 1877 E Summit St . Crown Point, Ind. 219.661.1600 . m-mcorp.com

Thanks to a unique partnership between M&M Home Remodeling Services and its suppliers, Doug Rachowicz, who was the sole survivor of an explosion in Afghanistan that killed four of his fellow soldiers from the Valparaiso-based 713th Engineer Co. of the Indiana National Guard, came home to upgraded Hammond home. “When you’ve been in the same business for over 35 years in the same area, you get to know people,” Nick Yadron, who works with his father Mike, the founder of M&M in 1976, says. “We felt like the upgrades to his Hammond home were the least we could give SECOND back to him.” Well-known as the PLACE leading provider and installer Rogers of a broad line of home exterior Roofing products including roofing, 4540 Wabash windows, entry doors, siding, Hammond, Ind. soffit, fascia and gutters, M&M 219.933.9145 added interior home remodeling rogersroofing.com services in response to a growing number of customer requests for kitchen and bath renovations.

64 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

Dr. Won Han of Munster Animal Hospital

SECOND PLACE

Community Pet Hospital 8138 Calumet Ave Munster, Ind. 219.836.0108

THIRD PLACE

Barden’s Animal Clinic 1642 E Commercial Ave Lowell, Ind. 219.696.0971 bardensanimalclinic.com

photography [this page] by TONY V. MARTIN | THE TIMES; [opposite page] courtesy of COLDWELL BANKER

[ best ]

ccredited from American Animal Hospital Association for the highest standard in veterinary care, Munster Animal Clinic continues to evaluate its services in an effort to deliver the best possible care for the pets in Munster and surrounding communities. “I am very proud of our staffs’ dedication to excellent care for beloved pets and peace of mind for clients,” says veterinarian Dr. Won Han. The clinic provides comprehensive service through direct care, special services including acupuncture and laser therapy, and client education and support through newsletters and online articles at the Web site. “We humbly celebrate this recognition from the community for three years in a row.”

[ best ] RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE CO. Coldwell Banker

coldwellbankeronline.com

Coldwell Banker is a premier real estate company with 3,300 sales associates in 53 offices serving more than 275 communities throughout Chicagoland, northwest Indiana, southwest Michigan and southeast Wisconsin. “We are so proud to be awarded this great honor,” Frank Larson, regional vice president of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, says. “We know the value of a home and the importance of making our clients’ dreams of homeownership come true.” Though strongly tied to the national

organization, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerages are managed locally and independently. The company’s focus has always been, and continues to be, on the needs of the local communities. “Our agents at Coldwell Banker always strive to be the best at what they do,” Larson says. “Our top priority is to provide our agents with the right mix of support, marketing, tools and technology to help them build their business and create successful experiences for their clients.”

SECOND PLACE

McColly mccolly.com

THIRD PLACE

Rossi & Taylor Real Estate Group, LLC 8025 Wicker Ave St. John, Ind. 219.365.8000 rossiandtaylor.com

CONVENTIONAL THINKING: Agents sell houses COLDWELL THINKING: We sell homes

We are proud to be named #1 in the category of Best Real Estate Company. Highland • 219-922-2323 • 2166 45th St., Highland IN | Schererville • 219-865-9911 • 20 E. US 30, Schererville IN Porter County • 219-464-3531 • 2110 N. Calumet Ave, Valparaiso IN A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 65

EDITOR’S CHOICE

[ best ] GAME ROOM/ POOL STORE

Maruszczak Appliance Sales & Service, Inc.

American Sale

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

t’s been about 60 years since Nick Maruszczak first started repairing washers and dryers in North Hammond and established Maruszczak Appliance Repair. Following his father’s lead, Doug Maruszczak, Sr also had a thriving repair business prior to opening the Munster retail store with his wife Pam in 1987. Since making the move from Munster to Schererville in 2008, the Maruszczaks have seen continued support from longtime customers. “We are extremely grateful to all our loyal customers as well as the many new ones we have welcomed,” Maruszczak, Sr says. “A big thanks to everyone who voted for us again this year - that’s all four years since we moved to Schererville!”

[ best ]

SECOND PLACE

Grant’s Appliances, Electronics & More 1107 W Lincoln Hwy Merrillville, Ind. 219.650.3680 grantsappliance.com

THIRD PLACE

Nason’s Appliance Co.

1158 E Summit St Crown Point, Ind. 219.769.4161 nasonsappliances.com

or It’s Just Serendipity owner Karen Maravilla, the love for antiques began when she was just a young girl growing up. “My grandfather had an antique/used furniture store in south Chicago...so you could say that antiques, treasures, and “junking” are in my blood!” says Maravilla, who opened the one of It’s Just Serendipity a kind store back in September of 2009. Beautifully blending the past with the present, It’s 5630 Hohman Ave . Hammond, Ind. 219.932.6328 . itsjustserendipity.com Just Serendipity attracts customers from all across the Midwest region. “It gives us great joy when customers leave our store with the “perfect” find or gift!” says Maravilla, who also serves as President of the Downtown Hammond Council/DHC. “We often help our customers decorate their home or office with a mixture of new, vintage, and handmade creations.”

ANTIQUE SHOP

SECOND PLACE

Tish’s Antiques

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

THIRD PLACE

Key to Estate Treasures

8385 Wicker Ave . St. John, Ind. 219.365.2700. thekeytoestatetreasures.com

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 handpick 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-inground 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 24foot 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.

photography by TONY V. MARTIN

Shopping

[ best ] APPLIANCE STORE

[ best ]

BRIDAL/FORMAL WEAR SHOP

Dunhill Tuxedos

dunhilltuxedos.com

he staff at Dunhill Tuxedos always goes the extra mile to make sure it’s right and the customers feel and appreciate that, says John Zandstra, one of its three owners. A bride can feel confident that no tuxedo emergency will ruin her day. A staff member will “run anything anywhere, whether it’s split pants at the church or a torn coat.” “Couples want their wedding to go effortlessly and seamlessly and not see all the problems arise. We’re happy to take care of any problems they may have.” This family owned business has been in the area almost 50 years and most employees have many years of experience, Zandstra says. They have a huge selection of tuxedos, wedding invitations and accessories and keep their own tuxes in Northwest Indiana unlike their competitors. Everything can be tried on and last minute SECOND PLACE THIRD PLACE sizing problems are not an issue David’s Bridal Elegance because items can be swapped 1700 E 80th St 2820 Highway Ave out immediately. “We treat our Merrillville, Ind. Highland, Ind. customers extremely well. That’s 219.648.2000 219.923.0977 davidsbridal.com elegancewedding.net always the goal,” Zandstra says.

Thanks for VoTing us #1 for The 4Th consecuTiVe year!

Don’t miss out on the most DepenDable Deals of the year Appliances from the brand trusted to deliver superior quality and long-lasting dependability. Proudly designed, engineered and assembled in the U.S.A. Stop in today!

See sales associate for complete details and qualified models. Only valid at participating Maytag Brand retailers. ®Registered trademark/™Trademark of Maytag Properties, LLC or its related companies. ©2012. All rights reserved. To learn more about the entire Maytag Brand line, please visit Maytag.com. ROP-13186

Big rebates on select Maytags! hurry in for great deals!

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A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

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may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 67

Shopping [ best ]

[ best ] CARPET/ FLOORING STORE

ELECTRONICS Best Buy

From computers to video games, lovers of hi tech gadgets have never questioned where they should go for all of their electronic needs. With locations throughout Northwest Indiana, Best Buy continues to serve as the leader, carrying the very latest in technology and brands. “On behalf of Best Buy’s corporate team, we congratulate all Best Buy locations in Northwest Indiana on being recognized as the best electronics stores in the region,” says a local Best Buy spokesperson. “We thank our employees who work hard to provide exceptional service to our customers each and every day and who are committed to making Best Buy the destination for all technology needs.”

Schilling Design Center and Lumber Yard 8900 Wicker Ave St. John, Ind. 219.365.6005

9900 191st St Mokena, Ill. 708.479.7007 schillings.com The look of your flooring, the function, durability and cost are all major factors when building and remodeling. That being said, selecting the flooring in your home is an important decision that stays with you for many years to come. “We are proud to offer you a huge selection of instock flooring including solid and engineered pre-finished hardwoods, unfinished solid hardwood, laminates, natural stone, glass, porcelain, ceramic tile, and luxury vinyl at the absolute lowest prices,” Greg Schilling says. “Having a great selection of stock items always available gives you the peace of mind that you can get more if needed - without the hassle and added expense of placing another special order.”

SECOND PLACE

Von Tobel Lumber & Hardware vontobels.com

THIRD PLACE

Park Avenue Floors

2315 45th St Highland, Ind. 219.924.5060 parkavenuefloors.com

bestbuy.com

[ best ]

CONSIGNMENT STORE Once Upon a Child

29 US Route 41 . Schererville, Ind. . 219.864.1976 1699 West Morthland Dr . Valparaiso, Ind. . 219.531.9000 onceuponachild.com

‘Going green’ was the initial reasoning behind the grand opening of Valparaiso’s very own Once Upon a Child back in 2009. Yet, as the economy continued to falter, owners Tina Williams and sons Kevin Hutnick and Kris Williams began to see firsthand the benefits that this consignment shop has offered the community. “Every single day, we have people who come up to us telling us how much they love this store,” explains Williams, who recently expanded the gently used children’s clothing store to accommodate more merchandise and an evergrowing maternity section. “Every single day, we feel like we are doing something good.”

SECOND PLACE

hhgregg hhgregg.com

THIRD PLACE

Nason’s Appliance

1158 East Summit St Crown Point, Ind. 219.769.4161 nasonsappliances.com

SECOND PLACE

It’s Just Serendipity

5630 Hohman Ave Hammond, Ind. 219.932.NEAT

THIRD PLACE

Hidden Treasures Consignment Boutique

2211 US Route 41 Schererville, Ind. 219.322.6340 hiddentreasuresconsign.com

PRODUCTS PROUDLY

MADE-IN-AMERICA With Special SavingS! ElivErED!

ED but nEvEr D

copi that arE oftEn Es lu va y Da y EvEr

n’t need Of course, you do gency. to wait for an emer ting Thank you for vo

e sTore BesT AppliAnc

[ best ] GARDEN/NURSERY STORE NW INDIANA

Alsip Home & Nursery

10255 Wicker Ave . St John, Ind. . 219.365.0882 20601 S. LaGrange Rd. . Frankfort, Ill. . 815.469.1044 alsipnursery.com Established in Frankfort, Illinois in 1969, Alsip Home & Nursery opened the 17-acre St. John location in 1994 and established their first satellite garden center in 2010. Look for Alsip’s return to the Crown Point Strack and Van Til store parking lots at 200 W. Franciscan Drive and 10851 Broadway. The area’s largest, most comprehensive garden centers benefits from a 140,000 square foot offsite growing greenhouse, while the leading landscape supply centers stock everything from brick, block and rock to trees, shrubs perennials and all SECOND PLACE the other supplies you need to create beautiful, livable outdoor spaces. Bringing together the best of every 2539 45th St season, Alsip Home & Nursery features Highland, Ind. a greenhouse, nursery, landscape 219.924.6076 supplies, lawn and garden solutions, allenlandscape.com outdoor living, home décor and gifts, as well as a complete pet department 1502 W Lincoln Hwy with grooming. But, more importantly, Schererville, Ind. you’ll find knowledgeable professionals who can help you with everything from 219.865.6181 pruning trees and shrubs to landscape allenlandscapecentre.net design, new plant introduction, lawn care, rose care and feeding wild birds. THIRD PLACE “I really believe that our Green Team Experts help set us apart from other 238 Kennedy Ave garden centers and especially the big Schererville, Ind. box stores,” Bryon Angerman, nursery manager of Alsip Home & Nursery in 219.864.9078 St. John, says. deanslandscaping.com

photo [this page] courtesy of ALSIP HOME & NURSERY

Allen Landscape Centre

Dean’s Landscaping

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

e Times HavBut Changed as H s Grant e Been Ther For You!

At Grants we make things easy...

Buy One Piece Get One Year Fr ee Warr Buy 2 Pieces Get 2 Years Free antY Buy 3 Pieces Get 3 Years Free Buy 4 Pieces Get 4 Years Free Buy 5 Pieces Get 5 Years Free On any major appliance $399 and up. Offer valid thru May 31, 2012. see store for details.

KnOwledgeable and Friendly Product specialists

MOre name brands

best

Overall Value

bigger

storewide savings

If You Don’t Want To Overpay ...Visit Grants Today!

1107 w. lincoln HwY merrillVille, in

219-650-3680

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK FOr yOUr FrEE GIFt.

www.grantsappliance.com may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 69

Shopping [ best ] FLORIST Dixon Florist & Gift Shop

919 Ridge Rd, Unit B-C Munster, Ind. 219.836.1668 dixonfloristandweddings.com

or Gail and Bob Dixon of Dixon Florist, no order is too small or too large. Named the “Best Florist for 2012”, the shop has served customers for the past 17 years. “Our philosophy is to give the customer more than they expect,” says Gail Dixon. “We are a full-service florist and gift shop.

Our four floral designers are fabulous.” In addition to artfully designed floral arrangements, Dixon Florist offers a wide array of gifts and accessories. These include wedding stationary, holidaythemed décor and gifts for all occasions. Bob Dixon specialists in calligraphy and has created wedding invitations for couples around the world.

[ best ] GARDEN/NURSERY STORE

SECOND PLACE

Bryan’s Florist flowerpowerflorist.com

THIRD PLACE

Cedar Lake Florist 8600 Lake Shore Dr Cedar Lake, Ind. 219.374.8600 cedarlakeflorist.com

MICHIGAN

Sawyer Home & Garden Center

5865 Sawyer Rd . Sawyer, Mich. . 269.426.8810 sawyergardencenter.com

SECOND PLACE

We Appreciate Our Moms

Groundworkes

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

THIRD PLACE

Green Wellies Garden Shop

111 N Main St Berrien Springs, Mich. 269.471.4037 welliesinthegardenspot.blog.com

thank you for voting us Best of the region!

3 yeArS iN A rOW!

Baby Store AND Consignment Store! 2820 HigHway avenue | HigHland, in | 219-923-0977 m w f 10-5 • tue thur 10-8 • sat 10-2

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

70 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

Bridal gowns Headpieces/veils Bridesmaids Mothers' dresses

Flower girl dresses shoes & Jewelry tuxedo rentals Invitations & more!

Ask about our Wedding Party Value Packages!

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

photo [this page, bottom] courtesy of SAWYER HOME & GARDEN CENTER; photo [opposite page] by TONY V. MARTIN | THE TIMES

aking home a great escape is easy with Sawyer Home & Garden Center as a guide. Plan a pretty and peaceful retreat or a party place with a riot of colorful plants and new, comfortable patio furniture. Sawyer also has grills and gourmet foods and the freshest in local farm produce. Free wine-tasting weekends make shopping even more fun, from room to room of garden accents, home décor, and bath and body products. One room offers 550 wines from around the world. “People say, ‘Wow, I didn’t know they had so much here!’ “ says marketing coordinator Stacey Koziel. “We want our customers to ‘escape to home’ with us.”

[ best ] GIFT BOUTIQUE

[ best ]

GROCERY STORE

Maria’s Hallmark

923 Ridge Rd . Munster, Ind. . 219.836.5025 1525 US Route 41 . Schererville, Ind. . 219.322.5503 10827 Broadway . Crown Point, Ind. . 219.661.0420 2070 E Commercial Ave . Lowell, Ind. . 219.696.0200

Perfect gifts for special people those are the timeless treasures Maria Hobby, owner of Maria’s Hallmark, selects for her stores. That makes it such fun to shop for moms, grandmothers, teachers, best friends - everyone who will know gifts were chosen just for them. There are scarves, keepsake figurines, practical and pretty purse organizers, jewelry and more, like

Hobby’s selection of beautiful music boxes whose melody goes go straight to the heart and nestle there forever. Hobby’s heart is as big as the love that’s tucked into every gift-wrapped box: “Thank you to Hallmark, our suppliers, loyal customers, and dedicated employees who have made us Number 1.”

SECOND PLACE

It’s Just Serendipity 5630 Hohman Ave Hammond, Ind. 219.932.6328 downtownhammond.org

THIRD PLACE

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

strackandvantil.com

track & Van Til sets itself apart through excellent customer service, commitment to the community, and through quality food. Jeff Strack, Strack & Van Til’s vice president of operations says, “We offer full-service deli departments so you can get hot foods, salads, and even order catering. Our bakery departments prepare breads, cakes, cookies, and plenty of other items from scratch. Our bakers, SECOND PLACE caterers, butchers, and staff are experts in their fields with decades of experience meijer.com preparing these food items on a daily basis.” It is the Strack & Van Til mission to be a THIRD PLACE full service grocery and fresh food store committed to the complete satisfaction of their customers. They guarantee the finest wisewayfoods.com quality products at the best value; provide their customers with a friendly shopping experience in a clean, safe, environment; realize that Strack & Van Til is successful because of the dedicated efforts of their associates and they are committed to their training and development; and they remain dedicated to the communities they serve by supporting organizations and events that enhance the quality of life.

Meijer

Wiseway

Best Diamond Prices. Best Service. Best Selection.

MARIA’S THANK YOU FOR MAKING US ONCE AGAIN ONE OF THE BEST OF THE REGION! Munster 836-5025

Strack & Van Til

Schererville 322-5503

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Crown Point 661-0420

Diamond Sale 20-50% OFF Storewide 2839 Highway Ave. Downtown Highland

(219) 838-2530 www.highlandjeweler.com may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 71

Shopping

MICHIGAN HarborTown Interiors

613 Broad St St. Joseph, Mich. 269.983.7774 harbortowninteriors.com

arborTown Interiors’ motto is, “We want you to come in - just for the fun of it!” With refreshing colors and styles, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere, HarborTown Interiors is a destination store for fun and shopping. “When customers enter our shop we can often see their eyes light up and a big smile appears,” says Kerry Kressler. “We know that the oohs and aahs are not far behind.” Oneof-a-kind accent pieces and from funky-to-fine furniture are a visual feast for the eyes. “We often

hear people say, “I want it all!’ The bright and airy store invites browsing, and that’s just fine “We encourage it,” says Kressler.

SECOND PLACE

Sawyer Home & Garden Center

5865 Sawyer Rd Sawyer, Mich. 269.426.8810 sawyergardencenter.com

THIRD PLACE

Customs Imports

430 S Whittaker St New Buffalo, Mich. 269.469.9180 customsimports.com

[ best ] HOME DECOR STORE NW Indiana

Bed Bath & Beyond

bedbathandbeyond.com

ed Bath & Beyond is a one-stop shop for home décor. Customers can find everything from must-have items that serve basic needs to the “ah-ha” products that solve common household problems. Aisles are devoted to bathrooms, bedrooms and kitchens with everything from vacuums SECOND PLACE to storage containers. There Louise’s Hallmark are also areas dedicated to 9533 Wicker Ave . St. John, Ind. household products for babies, 219.365.3837 . louiseshallmark.com children, college students and pets. THIRD PLACE The chain began in 1971, then Mary and Martha simply known as Bed ‘n’ Bath. In Home Accents 1986, the “Beyond” was added to the name and the superstore 2044 45th St . Highland, Ind. 219.924.3820 . maryandmarthaonline.com format of today began.

72 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

[ best ] HOME IMPROVEMENT STORE

A trip to your local Menards® home improvement stores can have you coming home with everything tools for Menards menards.com from your upcoming deck project to some groceries from their convenience section. Known throughout the Midwest for their wide selection of high-quality, name brand merchandise, Menards remains to add to their successful run as one of the best know home improvement stores in the area. And for a bevy of Northwest Indiana residents, there is no reason to look further than Menards and their talented staff on hand to help every do it yourselfer. A family-owned company started in 1960, Menards® currently operates more than 260 home improvement stores with locations in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

SECOND PLACE

Home Depot homedepot.com

THIRD PLACE

Von Tobel Lumber & Hardware vontobels.com

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

photography [this page, top] courtesy of HARBORTOWN INTERIORS, [Bottom] BED, BATH & BEYOND; [opposite page] JON L. HENDRICKS | THE TIMES

[ best ] HOME DECOR STORE

www.LibertyHomeSafe.com SINCE 1952

SPORT SHOPS CELEBRATING OUR

60TH ANNIVERSARY

Griffith Showroom Over 100 safes on display.

138 North Broad St. • Griffith, IN

219-924-4403

Thanks to our customers for keeping us on top since 1952.

Liberty Safes

Centurion

[ best ] HUNTING/FISHING/ OUTDOOR STORE

30 Minute Fire

Colonial

Franklin

45 Minute Fire

60 Minute Fire

linColn

Presidential national

90 Minute Fire

2.5 Hours Fire

Bass Pro Shops

6425 Daniel Burnham Dr . Portage, Ind. 219.787.6800 . basspro.com For four decades, Bass Pro Shops has become one of America’s premier outdoor retailers with destination outdoor retail stores across America and Canada, serving over 75 million sportsmen a year. Known as the “granddaddy of all outdoor stores,” Bass Pro Shops in Portage is open every day of the week with daily activities and workshops, from fly tying to turkey calling. Dine at the World Famous Fishing Company for delicious sandwiches, seafood, and pasta while viewing an immense salt water aquarium that kids and adults will love. The Tracker Boat Center offers a full-service dealership with three bays for service and retail representing five different boat lines. Jim Osborne, retail sales manager, says Bass Pro’s 135,000 sq. ft. of space offers everything, but it’s the staff that makes the difference. “We often talk about passion, and our associates have a strong passion for the SECOND PLACE products they assist our customers Cabela’s with. We educate our customers and 7700 Cabela Dr. Hammond, Ind. get kids involved. We’re a museum, 219.845.9040 . cabelas.com we’re a collection, and we’re a retailer too. We bring the outdoors THIRD PLACE indoors. We show off our fish from Blythe’s Sports our region in our aquarium, we & Gun Shop have skills classes, we’re deep into 138 N Broad St . Griffith, Ind. the heritage in each location. We 219.924.4403 really want people to have a great experience when they come to our 2810 N Calumet . Valparaiso, Ind. store.” 219.476.0026 . blythesguns.com

Thank you for voting us your favorite place to buy wine! Merrillville - 93rd & Taft, Next to PayLow Phone: 219•791•9419 Hobart - 1413 Lake Park Ave. Phone: 219•947•1997 check us out at: wiseguysliquors.com

Wise Guys is a one-of-a-kind Wine, Beer & Liquor Buying Experience. • more craft and mirco brews • more wines from around the world • the best selection of spirits • lower prices • largest stores • now with two locations

Wise Guys. The smart way to buy liquor. A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 73

Shopping [ best ] LIQUOR STORE Nick’s Liquors nicksliquors.com

JEWELRY STORE Albert’s Diamond Jewelers 711 Main St Schererville, Ind. 219.322.2700

2298 Southlake Mall Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.1976 albertsjewelers.com

ith the slogan “see you at Albert’s” Albert’s Diamond Jewelers has made itself a household name. The jewelry shopping destination stands out by offering a fun environment, giving back to its community and, of course, featuring an unmatched selection of jewelry, says Sara Brown, marketing and public relations manager. The Schererville store has 10,000 square feet where customers can browse jewelry, receive in-house appraisals and create custom jewelry and watches. “Albert’s has been a part of Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland for 107 years, and we’ve really become a part of the communities that visit and support us,” Brown says. “We love our customers and we try to make them SECOND PLACE feel like they are a guest in our Martin Binder home. We’re so happy to see 23 Lincolnway them every time.” Valparaiso, Ind. The staff at Albert’s 219.462.5931 participates in martinbinders.com community events every THIRD PLACE day, Brown says. Highland Jewelers “We love it and we’re 2839 Highway Ave honored that folks come to Highland, Ind. us and allow us to be a part of 219.838.2530 their events.” highlandjeweler.com

SECOND PLACE

WiseGuys Liquors

9127 Taft St Merrillville, Ind. 219.791.9419 1413 S Lake Park Ave Hobart, Ind. 219.947.1997 wiseguysliquors.com

THIRD PLACE

Delock’s Discount Liquors

Locations throughout Northwest Indiana

photography by TONY V. MARTIN | THE TIMES

[ best ]

With eight locations throughout Northwest Indiana, Nick’s Liquors is one of The Times reader’s favorites! Featuring a wide selection of beer, wine, liquors and cigarettes, Nick’s Liquors has long been a one stop shop for both Indiana and Illinois shoppers, especially those who live close to the bustling state line. It’s hard to beat their prices and their monthly specials - and their multiple locations make them easy to find when you need them! Don’t forget to ask their knowledgeable staff for recommendations - they are sure to have the perfect spirit for every occasion! Make sure to sign up for their emails to make sure you stay up to date with any upcoming sales or special events!

17th year in a row!

[ best ]

FURNITURE STORE Indiana Furniture Showcase

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

ustomers can walk into Indiana Furniture Showcase and come out with their homes entirely furnished. The Schererville furniture store offers everything from bedroom and living furniture to area rugs, fireplaces, game rooms and hardware. In business since 1969, Indiana Furniture once occupied about 3,000 square feet of the upstairs floor in SECOND PLACE its current building. Now, the Ashley Furniture company occupies more than 1516 US Route 41 60,000 square feet and has Schererville, Ind. expanded to include a new 219.864.1200 gallery of Flexsteel furniture. ashleyfurniture.com “One of the things we really try to do is focus on customer THIRD PLACE satisfaction and take care of Darvin Furniture everyone,” says Ashley Miller, 15400 La Grange Rd chief operating officer. “I think Orland Park, Ill. we always try to go the actual 708.460.4100 mile to help out.” darvin.com

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

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

711 Main St. • Schererville, IN • 219-322-2700 HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 10am-8pm, Sat.: 9am-6pm, Sun.: 11am-5pm

Southlake Mall • Merrillville, IN • 219-769-1976 HOURS: Monday -Saturday 10am-9pm and Sunday 11am-6pm

www.AlbertsJewelers.com

may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 75

Shopping [ best ]

PLACE TO BUY MEAT & POULTRY

[ best ] MATTRESS STORE

Welch’s Stop and Shop

Bedding Experts

Third generation Welch Stop and Shop owner Ed Welch says customers keep coming back because of the high quality meat, great customer service and strict attention to detail. Welch’s specializes in steaks, sausage, stuffed burgers and a popular private label ham. Their newest menu item is a wide variety of stuffed bratwurst. Welch’s also carries seafood, a wide array of deli meats, fresh produce and homemade breads baked daily. Welch’s is open daily at 8 a.m., closing Monday to Friday 7 p.m., Saturday 6 p.m. and Sunday 4 p.m. For busy families, Welch offers about 30 varieties of frozen premade heat and eat items ranging from Italian beef to lasagna and chicken dishes. Welch’s father and grandfather passed away during the past year. “It is great to see that the customers are still loving us and still loyal,” Welch says.

SECOND PLACE

Strack & Van Til strackandvantil.com

THIRD PLACE

Doug Komo’s Meat and Deli Inc. 13410 Wicker Ave Cedar Lake, Ind. 219.374.7773

beddingexperts.com

The average person will spend a third of his life sleeping, and that’s why Bedding Experts wants its customers to make the most of that time. “If you’re not sleeping on something comfortable, you’re not going to start out your day whole,” says Harvey Berry, director of store operations at Bedding Experts. The mattress and bedding store has 66 locations in the Chicago and Northwest Indiana areas, and provides a variety of solutions for customers seeking help with sleeping problems or who simply just want a larger bed. The company’s website also provides customers with tools that help them take care of their current mattresses and what to look for in a new mattress.

SECOND PLACE

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

THIRD PLACE

Lynn’s Bedroom City 1649 E 80th Ave Merrillville, Ind. 219.472.0676 709 US Route 41 Schererville, Ind. 219.322.8599 2705 Laporte Ave Valparaiso, Ind. 219.548.7337 bedroom-city.com

[ best ] MEN’S CLOTHING STORE JCPenney jcpenney.com

ranted...it can be tough to get the male persuasion in a store to shop for clothes. Yet, Northwest Indiana shoppers tend to agree that JCPenney is the place to go. With a wide variety of clothes to please the pickiest of shoppers, men and boys are sure to find what they are looking for. Brands such as Claiborne, Dockers and Levi’s keep shoppers always coming back for more not only because of the great styles they offer, but also the incredibly affordable prices! And while you are there, check out their variety of accessories, such as hats, belts, wallets and watches.

SECOND PLACE

David’s Men’s Clothier

113 Lincoln Highway Valparaiso, Ind. 219.462.0012 davidsmenclothier.com

THIRD PLACE

Kohl’s

kohls.com

photography by TONY V. MARTIN | THE TIMES

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

Thanks for Voting Welch’s Stop & Shop

#1 The Best Place for Meat & Poultry

[ best ] NEW CAR DEALER Smith Auto Group

Smith Chevrolet of Hammond 6405 Indianapolis Blvd Hammond, Ind. 219.845.4000

Smith Chevrolet of Lowell 700 W Commercial Ave Lowell, Ind. 219.696.8931 Smith Ford of Lowell 1777 E Commercial Ave Lowell, Ind. 219.696.8971 smithautogroupusa.com

Celebrating 90 years as a familyrun business, Smith Auto Group has a lot of experience pleasing new Chevrolet and Ford owners at their three Lake County locations. “We are fortunate to be led by three great general managers who are compassionate about our customers,” says Alison Roper, manager of sales and service development, and member of the founding family. “We truly do appreciate our customers and go the extra mile for them.” Repeat buyers know they’ll be taken care of when they see the familiar faces of longtime staff members. Chevrolet agrees, ranking Smith tops in sales and service satisfaction.

SECOND PLACE

Schepel Auto Group (Buick-GMCCadillac-Hummer) 2929-3209 W Lincoln Hwy Merrillville, Ind. 219.738.1900 schepel.com

THIRD PLACE

Mike Anderson Chevrolet

mikeandersonchevy.com

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

meat paCks (variety and steak)

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

Join us For

satUrday COOkOUts!

We have delicious hoMeMade sOUps

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 may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 77

Shopping

Strack & Van Til strackandvantil.com

Since Strack & Van Til began offering groceries to the region over 80 years ago, produce has been a focal point for the family-run business. Joe Kolavo, vice president of perishable operations for Strack & Van Til says, “Produce is all about

[ best ]

PET SHOP PETCO

petco.com

quality, freshness, and carrying the variety our customers want. Typically we carry close to 1,000 different produce items in each of our Strack &Van Til stores day in and day out. We are dedicated to selling only the freshest quality produce available and we guarantee it 200%. If for any reason a customer of ours isn’t completely satisfied with their produce purchase, we will replace the product and reimburse the purchase price.”

SECOND PLACE

Meijer

meijer.com

THIRD PLACE

Jewel

jewelosco.com

A national chain of retail stores, PETCO offers everything from food to habitats for your pet whether you have a dog, cat, small mammal, reptile, fish or bird. One of the hallmarks of PETCO is the company’s commitment to natural, holistic and organic pet food that is free of artificial ingredients and chemicals. Services such as grooming and dog training are also part of PETCO’s commitment to these family members. Founded in 1965, PETCO has more than 1,000 locations in the U.S. The chain’s familiar logo features mascots Red Ruff and Blue Mews. Visit your local store or go online to order pet supplies.

SECOND PLACE

Pet Supplies Plus 946 Joliet St . Dyer, Ind. 219.864.8118

2410 LaPorte Av . Valparaiso, Ind. 219.531.0622 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

78 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

[ best ] PLACE TO BUY WINE MICHIGAN

Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant 185 Mount Tabor Rd . Buchanan, Mich. 269.422.1161 . taborhill.com

ere’s a wonderful way to shop for fine wines: Begin at a place that has nearly 50 year’s hospitality experience. Add a soaring 2,500-square-foot, new addition to the tasting and sales room Experience SECOND PLACE the thrill of being literally a Round Barn reach out the window to the Winery grapevines. Result: It’s easy 9185 Union Pier Rd to see why Tabor Hill Winery Union Pier, Mich. 269.469.6885 & Restaurant is a venerable favorite - and the “Best Place 10983 Hills Rd to Buy Wine” in the region. Baroda, Mich. “Of course it doesn’t 800-716-9463 hurt to have internationally roundbarnwinry.com award-winning wines at hand, either!” says Manager THIRD PLACE Paul Landeck. They White Pine include demi sec wines, a 317 State St dry Chardonnay, dessert St. Joseph, Mich. wines, and one-of-a-kind 269.281.0098 proprietary blends. whitepinewinery.com

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

photo [above] by GREGG RIZZO

[ best ] PLACE TO BUY PRODUCE

[ best ] PLACE TO BUY WINE NW INDIANA

WiseGuys Liquors 9127 Taft St Merrillville, Ind. 219.791.9419

1413 S Lake Park Ave Hobart, Ind. 219.947.1997 wiseguysliquors.com Having only been in business for four years, it’s a great honor to be recognized by readers for its wine selection, says Don Weiss, owner of WiseGuys Liquors. “Since we’re relatively new, we’re

glad that the word is getting out,” he says. “We’re very proud and we’re glad it will help other people know what we can do for them.” Weiss tributes WiseGuys’ success to the wide selection of wine, liquor and craft beers offered and the knowledgeable staff. Currently, there are two locations - in Merrillville and Hobart - but there are plans in the works to add two new locations down the road.

SECOND PLACE

St. John Wine & Spirits

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

THANKFORYOU VOTING

LEVIN TIRE #1

BEST AUTO REPAIR & BEST TIRE STORE

THIRD PLACE

Nick’s Liquors nicksliquors.com

LEVIN TIRE COUPON

10 19

OIL & FILTER CHANGE

TIRE STORE

Levin Tire

$ 95 $

W/ 4 TIRE ROTATION

[ best ]

levintirecenter.com

or the fourth straight year, Levin Tire & Service Center has been named “Best Tire Store” in The Times Best of the SECOND PLACE Region contest. Discount Tire Founded in 1918, 10128 Indianapolis Blvd Levin Tire is a local, Highland, Ind. family-owned business 219.922.8127 that has grown from a small tire repair shop 557 West 81st Ave into seven full-service tire and auto Merrillville, Ind. repair centers across Lake and Porter 219.756.3952 counties. Their newest location is in discounttire.com Winfield. Each location carries a wide THIRD PLACE selection of all major tire brands at guaranteed everyday low prices, Heinhold & Feller including Goodyear, Michelin, Tire Co. Bridgestone and Kelly. Their service 1707 E Lincolnway advisors are highly knowledgeable and Valparaiso, Ind. friendly which make buying new tires 219.462.5191 an easy and enjoyable experience. heinold-feller.com

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

FREE

VALVOLINE SOCCER BALL

*After Mail-In Reward Card for $10.00 Off Future Purchase

OFF

ANY SERVICE

$29.95 WITHOUT REWARD CARD

When you spend $50 or more

*EXPIRES 6/22/2012. Good with any Premium Valvoline oil change. With coupon. Most vehicles. No other discounts apply. Plus env. Fees. While supplies last. See store for details. TR1

*EXPIRES 6/22/2012. With coupon. One coupon per visit. No other discounts apply. Most vehicles. Discount on service work only. See store for details. TR2

M-F 7:30-6

Family Owned & Operated Since 1918 CROWN POINT

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

HAMMOND

219-845-9220 6901 Indianapolis Blvd. Mon-Fri 7:30-6 Sat 7:30-4

HOBART

MERRILLVILLE

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

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

219-947-2574

219-887-0531

HIGHLAND

219-924-1710 9500 Indianapolis Blvd. Mon-Fri 7:30-6:30 Sat 7:00-4:30; Sun 10-4

VALPARAISO

219-462-1500 203 Silhavy Road Mon-Fri 7:00-6:30 Sat 7:00-4

OPEN SUNDAY IN HIGHLAND may 20, 2012 | nwi.com/bestof | 79

Shopping

Shoe Carnival

S shoecarnival.com

hoe Carnival not only offers a wide selection of family footwear, but makes visiting the store a fun experience. With upbeat music playing in the background, Shoe Carnival locations feature contests and games as part of the shoe-buying experience. Shoe Carnival also offers its customers a free rewards club called Shoe Perks. The club allows

[ best ]

USED CAR DEALER Smith Auto Group

Smith Chevrolet of Hammond 6405 Indianapolis Blvd Hammond, Ind. 219.845.4000 Smith Chevrolet of Lowell 700 W Commercial Ave Lowell, Ind. 219.696.8931 Smith Ford of Lowell 1777 E Commercial Ave Lowell, Ind. 219.696.8971 smithautogroupusa.com

80 | nwi.com/bestof | may 20, 2012

customers to earn points with every purchase they make in the stores or online. Customers can then use those points toward rewards certificates. Club members also get special access to promotions online and in stores. The shoe retail store doesn’t only reach out to customers, however. Shoe Carnival is an active partner in corporate charitable campaigns with United Way and is involved in local fundraisers as well.

[ best ] WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE Hunch Furs

2021 W Lincoln Hwy (Rte. 30) Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.4270 hunchfurs.net

SECOND PLACE

Family-owned and operated, Hunch Furs has been in business since 1938. In 1998, they starting selling motorcycle apparel and continue to take great pride in offering customers the newest fashions and latest technologies in motorcycle apparel. TaTaLeathers. com, Hunch Furs online division, serves customers near and far.

SECOND PLACE

Amy Laurie’s Eclectic Boutique 613 N Main St Crown Point, Ind. 219.661.8094

Barney’s Hub Bootery

108 N Main St Crown Point, Ind. 219.663.0463 barneyshubbootery.com

THIRD PLACE

Ms. Elle’s Especially For You 2235 45th St Highland, Ind. 219.924.4204 mselles.com

THIRD PLACE

Famous Footwear famousfootwear.com

election, convenience, and confidence are the keys to the popularity of Smith Auto Group’s used car department. “We take a lot of trade-ins, so we have a variety of cars at each location,” says Alison Roper, manager of sales and service development. Most makes are represented, and while certified used cars are a specialty, Smith offers something for every budget. If the car that fits your needs is on another lot, they’ll bring to the store nearest to you. Every vehicle goes out the door with a good warranty. “We inspect them thoroughly,” says Alison. “So you always buy quality.”

SECOND PLACE

Schepel Auto Group (Buick-GMCCadillac-Hummer) 2929-3209 W Lincoln Hwy Merrillville, Ind. 219.738.1900 schepel.com

TIED FOR THIRD PLACE

Mike Anderson Chevrolet

Multiple locations in Northwest Indiana and Illinois mikeandersonchevy.com

Christenson Chevrolet

9700 Indianapolis Blvd Highland, Ind. 219.961.4144

photo courtesy of SMITH AUTO GROUP

[ best ] SHOE STORE

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

T S E B e h t s U s for Voting

Thank

! a n a i d n I t s e w h t r o N n i r e l a Car De

Three NWI Locations!

1777 East Commerical Ave

866-729-3986

6405 Indianapolis Blvd

866-462-5396

700 W. Commercial AVe

866-730-6852

BUICK • GMC

The New Class of World Class

WE ARE PROFESSIONAL GRADE

2010 & 2011

3209 W. LincoLn highWay • MerriLLviLLe, in • 219.769.6381 OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY • 7 DAYS A WEEK

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

WWW.SchePeL.coM NEW & CERTIFIED USED

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