1 | PRODUCT

Thank You for naming Franciscan Alliance hospitals, medical and fitness facilities among the Best in the Region in several categories!

FranciscanAlliance.org

The northern Indiana hospitals of Franciscan Alliance continue to receive accolades from health care ratings organizations and readers of local newspapers and business magazines. The honors reflect Franciscan Alliance’s ongoing commitment to bring together the best services for patients and customers using the most modern technology, and exceptional people who minister with joy, care and compassion.

The Best Cosmetic Surgery CenterFranciscan Medical Specialists

One of the Best HospitalsFranciscan St. Anthony Health- Crown Point

One of the Best in Cardiology CareThe Heart Center of Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Crown Point

One of the Best in Orthopedic CareFranciscan Medical Specialists

One of the Best in Pediatric CareFranciscan Medical Specialists

One of the Best in PodiatryFranciscan Hammond Clinic Specialty Center

One of the Best Places to WorkFranciscan Alliance Hospitals

One of the Best Health & Fitness FacilitiesFranciscan Omni Health & Fitness

Among the Best Urgent Care CentersFranciscan ExpressCareFranciscan Hammond Clinic Urgent Care

Among the Best in Women’s HealthFranciscan St. Anthony Health- Crown PointFranciscan St. Margaret Health

the most modern technology, and exceptional people who minister with joy, care and compassion.

The northern Indiana hospitals of Franciscan Alliance continue to receive accolades from health care ratings

the most modern technology, and exceptional people who minister with joy, care and compassion.the most modern technology, and exceptional people who minister with joy, care and compassion.

Thank for naming Franciscan Alliance hospitals, medical and fitness facilities among the Best in the Region in several categories!

“Building A Stronger Community From Within.”

Mayor David Uran

For Voting Us

www.crownpoint.in.gov

an award winningcity all around!

BestDowntown

2009, 2010, 20112012, 2013

Best PLACETO LIVE2010, 2011,2012, 20132012, 20132012, 20132012, 20132012, 20132012, 20132012, 20132012, 20132012, 20132012, 20132012, 20132012, 20132012, 20132012, 20132012, 20132012, 20132012, 20132012, 20132012, 20132012, 2013

Mayor David UranMayor David Uran

For Voting UsFor Voting UsFor Voting UsFor Voting UsFor Voting UsFor Voting UsFor Voting UsFor Voting Us

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 1

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Beauty & Wellness06BEST COSMETIC

SURGERY CENTER 1 Medical Specialists2 Dr. Platis3 Vein Center of NW Indiana

06BEST HAIR SALON

1 Vanis Salon & Day Spa2 Riah Salon3 Color Room Salon and

Day Spa

06BEST HEALTH FOOD STORE

1 Baums2 Au Natural3 Nature’s Remedies

07BEST HEARING AID CENTER

1 Clear Ear2 Community Hospital

Audiology3 Accuquest

08BEST SPA

1 Vanis Salon & Day Spa2 State of Mind3 Serenity Salon & Spa

09BEST VISION CARE

1 VisionPoint2 Visionworks3 LTF Eye Care Center

Education & Instruction10BEST ADULT

EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION 1 Purdue University Calumet2 Valparaiso University3 Indiana University

Northwest

10BEST COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY

1 Purdue University Calumet2 Valparaiso University3 Indiana University

(Bloomington)

10BEST DANCE SCHOOL

1 Arthur Murray2 Donna Brum Dance Studio3 Fred Astaire

Ballroom Dance

11BEST GYMNASTICS FACILITY

1 Patti’s All American Gymnastics

2 Midwest Training and Ice Center

3 Horizon Gymnastics & Cheer Academy

Entertainment12BEST BOWLING

ALLEY 1 Stardust2 Plaza Lanes3 Set ‘Em Up

12BEST CASINO

1 Four Winds2 Horseshoe3 Blue Chip

13BEST CASINO DINING

1 Jack Binion’s - Horseshoe2 The Buffet - Four Winds3 Copper Rock Steakhouse -

Four Winds

13BEST CASINO POKER

1 Horseshoe2 Four Winds3 Blue Chip

12BEST CASINO SLOTS

1 Four Winds2 Horseshoe3 Blue Chip

13BEST CASINO TABLE GAMES

1 Horseshoe2 Four Winds3 Blue Chip

16BEST COUNTRY CLUB

1 Briar Ridge Country Club2 White Hawk Country Club3 Innsbrook Country Club

14BEST FESTIVAL (NWI)

1 Pierogi Fest2 Popcorn Festival3 Lake County Fair

14BEST FESTIVAL (NON-LOCAL)

1 Taste of Chicago2 National Blueberry

Festival (South Haven)3 Frankfort Fall Festival

15BEST FUN CENTER

1 Jak’s Warehouse2 Zao Island3 Zig E’s Funland

14BEST GOLF COURSE

1 White Hawk Country Club2 Briar Ridge Country Club3 Aberdeen

16BEST HOTEL (NWI)

1 Radisson Merrillville2 Blue Chip3 Hilton Garden Inn

15BEST HOTEL (MI)

1 Four Winds Hotel2 Marina Grand Resort,

New Buffalo3 CityFlatsHotel - Grand

Rapids/Holland

17BEST LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

VENUE 1 Star Plaza Theatre2 The Venue at

Horseshoe Casino3 Center for Visual

& Performing Arts

18BEST LIVE THEATER GROUP

1 Star Plaza Theatre2 Theatre at the Center3 Memorial Opera House

18BEST MARINA

1 Hammond Marina2 Michigan City Marina3 Burnham Harbor -

Chicago

18BEST MOVIE THEATER

1 AMC Theatres2 Portage 16 IMAX3 49’er Drive-In

19BEST MUSEUM

1 Museum of Science and Industry

2 Field Museum3 Chicago Children’s

Museum

15BEST PLACE FOR A CHILD’S

BIRTHDAY PARTY 1 Jak’s Warehouse2 Tyler’s Tenders3 Gary South Shore Railcats

19BEST PUBLIC GARDEN,

OUTDOOR EXHIBITION 1 Taltree Arboretum2 Shrine of Christ’s Passion3 Morton Arboretum

Food & Drink20BEST ASIAN

FOOD 1 China Buffet2 The China House3 Siam Marina

20BEST BAKERY

1 Butterfingers Bakery2 Strack & Van Til3 Almira’s Bakery

20BEST BANQUET FACILITY

1 Avalon Manor2 Strongbow Inn3 Halls of St. George

21BEST BAR/ LOUNGE

1 Houlihan’s2 Bridges’ Scoreboard3 Texas Corral

21BEST CATERER

1 Strack & Van Til2 Comforts Catering3 Butterfingers

22BEST CHEF

1 Chris Pohl - Giovanni’s2 Joseph Gaal - Sage3 Eddie Luick - Bon Femme

22BEST COFFEE

1 Dunkin Donuts2 McDonald’s3 The Blue Room Cafe

22BEST DRIVE-IN

1 The 49’er2 Blue Top Drive-In3 The Port Drive-In

23BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT

1 Round the Clock2 Texas Corral3 Kelsey’s Steakhouse

24BEST FINE DINING RESTAURANT

1 Cooper’s Hawk2 Gino’s Steakhouse3 Ciao Bella

24BEST HAMBURGERS

1 Schoops2 Culver’s3 Miner Dunn

24BEST HOT DOG

1 Corky’s Dogg House2 George’s Gyro Spot3 Top Dog Restaurant

24BEST ICE CREAM SHOP

1 Coldstone Creamery2 Culver’s3 Sweet Frog

25BEST ITALIAN FOOD

1 Lucrezia2 Ciao Bella3 Giovannis

26BEST MEXICAN FOOD

1 El Taco Real2 El Salto3 Tequila Restaurante

26BEST MICROBREWERY

1 Three Floyds2 Figure Eight Brewing3 Founder’s

26BEST PIZZA

1 Aurelio’s2 Beggar’s Pizza3 Gelsosomo’s - CP

28BEST PLACE FOR BREAKFAST

1 Round the Clock2 Jelly’s Pancake House3 Scrambled Diner

27BEST PLACE FOR BRUNCH

1 Center for Visual & Performing Arts

2 Strongbow Inn3 Ciao Bella

28BEST PLACE FOR CHICKEN WINGS

1 Hooters2 Wings Etc.3 Smashmouth

28BEST PLACE FOR LUNCH

1 Round the Clock2 Popolano’s3 The Patio

30BEST PLACE FOR A SANDWICH

1 Subway2 Butterfingers3 Quizno’s

29BEST POLISH FOOD

1 Warsaw Inn2 Cavalier Inn3 MJ’s Deli

30BEST SEAFOOD

1 The Patio2 Blue Chip3 Tiebel’s3 Town Club Restaurant

30BEST SPORTS BAR & GRILL

1 Bridges’ Scoreboard2 White Rhino Bar & Grill3 Hooters

31BEST STEAKHOUSE

1 The Lighthouse2 Kelsey’s Steak & Seafood3 Gino’s Steakhouse

31BEST WINERY

1 Round Barn Winery2 Tabor Hill Winery

& Restaurant3 St. Julian Winery

Health Care32BEST CARDIOLOGY

CARE 1 Cardiology Associates1 Community Cardiology

Center2 The Heart Institute at

Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point

3 Northwest Indiana Cardiovascular Physicians

32BEST CHIROPRACTOR

1 HealthSource2 Trimboli Chiropractic3 Dr. John Kostidis

34BEST DENTIST

1 Advanced Dental2 Schererville Family

Dentistry3 Northwest Oral Surgeons

35BEST HEALTH & FITNESS CLUB

1 Fitness Pointe2 Franciscan Omni

Health & Fitness3 Valparaiso YMCA

36BEST HOSPITAL

1 Community Hospital2 Franciscan St. Anthony

Health - Crown Point3 Porter Hospital

36BEST ORTHOPEDIC PRACTICE

1 Lakeshore Bone & Joint2 Franciscan Medical

Specialists3 Orthopedic Specialists

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 3

38BEST PAIN MANAGEMENT

1 Community Spine & Neurosurgery Institute

2 Midwest Interventional Spine Specialist

3 Methodist Hospital

40BEST PEDIATRIC CARE

1 Community Hospital2 Franciscan Medical Specialists3 Kids First Pediatrics

40BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY

1 HealthSource2 ATI Physical Therapy3 Fitness Pointe

40BEST PODIATRIST

1 Friendly Foot Care2 Franciscan Hammond Clinic

Specialty Center3 Dr. Michael Dichoso -

Orthopaedic Institute

41BEST SPINE CARE

1 LakeShore Bone and Joint2 Community Spine &

Neurosurgery Institute3 Spine Care Specialists

42BEST URGENT CARE

1 Community Hospital2 Franciscan ExpressCare3 Hammond Clinic

42BEST WOMEN’S HEALTH

1 Community Hospital’s Women’s Diagnostic Center

2 Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point

3 Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Dyer, Hammond

Living44BEST DOWNTOWN

(NWI) 1 Crown Point2 Valparaiso3 Highland

44BEST DOWNTOWN (IL)

1 Chicago2 Lansing3 Beecher

44BEST DOWNTOWN (MI)

1 New Buffalo2 Saugatuck3 Grand Rapids

44BEST PLACE TO LIVE (NWI)

1 Crown Point2 Valparaiso3 Munster

45BEST PLACE TO LIVE (IL)

1 Chicago2 Beecher3 Crete

45BEST PLACE TO LIVE (MI)

1 New Buffalo2 Saugatuck3 Grand Rapids

46BEST PLACE TO VOLUNTEER

1 Boys & Girls Clubs2 Humane Society Calumet Area3 Humane Society NWI

46BEST PLACE TO WORK

1 Centier Bank2 Franciscan Alliance Hospitals3 Citizens Financial

46BEST PLACE TO WORSHIP

1 St. Mary Church2 Family Christian Center3 St. Michael’s Church

46BEST RETIREMENT/ASSISTED LIVING

COMMUNITY 1 Hartsfield Village2 St. Anthony Home3 Wittenberg

Services49BEST

BANK 1 Centier2 Chase3 Citizens Financial

48BEST CAR REPAIR SHOP

1 Levin Tire2 Crown Point Auto Repair3 Mr. Tire

48BEST CAR WASH

1 Soft Touch2 Drive & Shine3 Easy Clean

49BEST CHILDCARE CENTER

1 Wonder Years2 Happy Days Childcare3 Child Enrichment Center

49BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

1 Centier2 Strack & Van Til3 Citizens Financial

48BEST DOOR & WINDOW REPLACEMENT

1 Schilling2 The Door Store3 M&M Home Remodeling

Services

50BEST ELECTRICIAN

1 Meyer’s Heating & Cooling2 All Services Electric3 Cedar Electric

50BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR

1 Centier2 Oak Partners3 Wells Fargo Financial

52BEST HEATING AND COOLING

1 Illiana Heating & Cooling2 Meyers Heating & Cooling3 Cliff’s Heating and A/C

50BEST HOME BUILDER

1 Olthof Homes2 McFarland Homes3 1st Metropolitan Builders3 Phillippe Builders

54BEST INSURANCE AGENT

1 Anton Insurance1 Jim Miskovich2 Connie Bernard3 Barb Gulden

54BEST KITCHEN/ BATH REMODELING

1 Schilling2 Von Tobel Lumber & Hardware3 Maruszczak Appliance

56BEST LANDSCAPER

1 Allen’s Landscape Centre2 Dean’s Landscaping3 RAL Landscaping

58BEST PLACE FOR AN OIL CHANGE

1 Duke of Oil2 Drive & Shine3 Oil Express

51BEST PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO

1 jc penney Portrait Studios2 Edda Taylor Photographie3 Pat and Cassie Portrait Design

56BEST PLUMBER

1 St. John Plumbing Service2 Meyer’s Heating & Cooling3 TLC Plumbing

55BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT (IN)

1 Brian Rossi2 Bill McCabe3 Jana Caudill

56BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT (MI)

1 Louis Price2 Jay DeBruyn3 Sharon Halliburton

58BEST RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE COMPANY

1 Rossi & Taylor2 McColly3 Century 21 Alliance Group

59BEST ROOFER

1 M&M Roofing2 R.L. Roofing3 Champion Windows, Sunrooms,

Roofs, Home Exteriors3 Rogers Roofing

Shopping60BEST ANTIQUE

SHOP 1 It’s Just Serendipity2 Comfy Couch3 Key To Estate Treasures

60BEST APPLIANCE STORE

1 Maruszczak2 Nason’s Appliance3 Hometown Appliance

60BEST BRIDAL/ FORMAL WEAR SHOP

1 David’s Bridal2 Dunhill Tuxedos3 Elegance

61BEST CARPET/FLOORING STORE

1 Schilling2 Von Tobel3 Cover Rite

62BEST CONSIGNMENT STORE

1 Once Upon a Child2 It’s Just Serendipity3 Hidden Treasures

61BEST ELECTRONICS STORE

1 Best Buy2 HH Gregg3 Hometown Appliance

62BEST FLORIST

1 Bryan’s Florist2 Cedar Lake Florist3 Brumm’s Bloomin Barn

62BEST FURNITURE STORE

1 Ashley Furniture2 Indiana Furniture3 Darvin Furniture

64BEST GARDEN/ NURSERY STORE (IL)

1 Alsip Nursery2 Sunrise (Woldhuis Farms)3 Smits Farms

63BEST GARDEN/ NURSERY STORE (IN)

1 Alsip Nursery2 Allen Landscape Center3 Chesterton Feed & Garden

64BEST GARDEN/ NURSERY STORE (MI)

1 Dickerson’s Garden Center 2 New Life Nursery3 Sawyer Home & Garden Center

64BEST GIFT BOUTIQUE

1 Maria’s Hallmark2 Louise’s Hallmark3 Cedar Lake Florist

66BEST GROCERY STORE

1 Strack & Van Til2 Meijer3 Aldi

66BEST HOME DECOR STORE

1 jc penney Home Store2 Schilling3 De Young Interiors

66BEST HOME IMPROVEMENT STORE

1 Menards2 Lowe’s3 Home Depot

68BEST HUNTING/FISHING/OUTDOOR STORE

1 Bass Pro Shop2 Cabela’s3 Blythe’s

65BEST JEWELRY STORE

1 Albert’s Diamond Jewelers2 Highland Jewelers3 Martin Binder Jeweler

68BEST LIQUOR STORE

1 Nick’s Liquors2 Wise Guys Liquors3 St. John Wine & Spirits

66BEST MATTRESS STORE

1 American Mattress2 Bedding Experts3 Lynn’s Bedroom City

67BEST MEN’S CLOTHING STORE

1 Kohl’s2 jc penney3 Carson Pirie Scott

68BEST NEW CAR DEALER

1 Schepel Auto Group 2 Bosak Chrysler/Honda3 Team Auto Group

70BEST PET SHOP

1 PETCO2 Pet Supplies Plus3 Alsip Nursery

67BEST PLACE TO BUY MEAT & POULTRY

1 Welch’s Stop and Shop2 Strack & Van Til3 Rob’s Meat Chop & Deli

70BEST PLACE TO BUY PRODUCE

1 Meijer2 Strack & Van Til3 Scheeringa Farms

& Greenhouses

70BEST PLACE TO BUY WINE

1 Wise Guys Liquors2 St John Wine and Spirits3 Nick’s Liquors

71BEST SHOE STORE

1 Shoe Carnival2 Barney’s Hub Bootery3 Famous Footwear

71BEST TIRE STORE

1 Levin Tire2 Mr. Tire3 Brown Tire

72BEST USED CAR DEALER

1 Arnell Auto Chevrolet-Kia2 Schepel Auto Group3 Christenson Chevrolet

70BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE

1 Kohl’s2 Carson Pirie Scott3 jc penney

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The Times Shore Best of the Region contest is about 20 years old—we always have to give or take a few years with that number, we have occasionally taken a year off, back in the day before digital balloting—and takes on added importance each year as competition grows and our voters and marketers become even more savvy.

The idea that hundreds of thousands of customers will take the time to thoughtfully weigh the brand importance of our top businesses is pretty remarkable. Think about the many demands our reader/voter audience deals with every day and setting aside the time it takes to vote. My theory is we vote because it matters who wins. Every single individual gets up each morning and goes to work wanting to do his or her best. The very last thing we are thinking about is acknowledgement and reward. But, when I am on the consumer end, does it matter what my friends and neighbors think about the products and services they use? Of course it does.

I’m one of those people who will look at the ratings and reviews before making a selection on anything, though I’m just as liable to mistrust the information I get by doing that as I am to act on it. That’s the second most important reason our contest matters: It’s reliable. I can tell you that because I see the same vote-getters each year and know the consistent quality of their work. I also hear about what’s exciting and new and those folks show up in the results too. More than 720 people voted for Jak’s Warehouse this year and that is not just because they have good signage. Something else I noticed—this balloting takes place in the dog days of winter—we routinely get a drive-in in the top 20. This year it’s Julie’s and my personal favorite: The 49’er in Valparaiso. I know they have my vote.

Congratulations to all of our top 20 vote getters: 1. Dunkin’ Donuts, 2. Schoops, 3. Three Floyds Brewery, 4. Stardust, 5. Strack & Van Til, 6. City of Chicago, 7. Coldstone Creamery, 8. Centier, 9. Butterfinger’s Bakery, 10. Hooters, 11. Museum of Science and Industry, 12. Best Buy, 13. City of Crown Point, 14. The 49’er Valparaiso, 15. AMC, 16. El Taco Real, 17. Purdue Calumet, 18. China Buffet, 19. Warsaw Inn and 20. Community Hospital.

Every single business that placed in the top three of their category is truly a winner, this contest is always 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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A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 5

The Spry FamilyLocally Owned & Operated

827 W. 45th Ave • Griffith (across from CVS Drugs)

Clear Ear®

Hours: Monday - Thursday 9:30 to 4 • Friday 9 to Noon • Saturdays/Sundays, Evening, Nursing Home & In-Home Appointments Available.H.A.D.

Audioprosthologist

*Hearing evaluation & consultation is used to determine if you are a candidate for a Hearing Aid.6 Months same as cash with care credit.

LIVE LIFE THRU A CLEAR EAR! CALL TODAY 219 934 9747

The Spry Family Locally Owned & Operated

Try our Siemens Most Advanced Hearing AidsBest Feedback Cancellation • So Small! Barely Noticeable! Auto Phone for Easier Phone Conversations!

Winter, Spring,Summer or Fall... Be Sure To Use Your Insurance.

We File Electronically.All you have to do is call and Clear Ear will be there for you. 219-934-9747 Mittal/Inland • Medicaid Recipients • Highmark/USX • IN Carpenters

Sheetmetal • Lever Brothers Budd Company Boilermakers 524 Pipefitters Locals & Unions • Blue Cross & Blue Shield

MANY OTHER PLANS (COVERAGE MAY VARY) Call For Details 219-934-9747

FREE HEARING TEST! CALL FoR

AN APPoINTMENT219-934-9747

Thank You for Voting Us#1 Hearing Aid Center!

Not good with any other offers/specials. Offer expires 6-30-13. The price reflects all discount/rebates and PD Deductibles/Upgrade Package/Technology packages available at extra cost. Ask Clear Ear for details.

BRING THIS CoUPoN AT TIME oF PURCHASE

OFF60%Manufacturer suggested retail price on Siemens Hearing Instruments

Thank You Thank You for Voting Usfor Voting Usfor Voting Us#1 Hearing #1 Hearing Aid Center!Aid Center!

Not good with any other offers/specials. Offer expires 6-30-13. The price reflects all discount/rebates and

We’re #1Thank you!

We love you!

FREE TESTING!FREE Ear Wax Test

FREE Ear Pressure CheckWalk RIGhT IN!

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Highly skilled experts at Franciscan Medical Specialists Department

of Dermatology focus on general dermatology, cosmetic dermatology and dermatological surgery. Medical Specialists is a full-service dermatology practice with board certified dermatologists and physician assistants.

The full range of skin care concerns are covered all at one practice, giving patients added convenience and more comprehensive care, and patients appreciate that. They receive effective, less invasive procedures in a medically supervised, state-of-the-art environment. Services include management of skin disorders, chemical peels, micro-dermabrasion, Botox, laser hair removal, skin cancer surgery, collagen injections and more.

[ best ]COSMETIC SURGERYFranciscan Medical

Specialists761 45th St

Munster, Ind.219.961.5917

919 Main St, Suite 201Dyer, Ind

219.934.2495

1101 Glendale Rd, Suite 110

Valparaiso, Ind.219.477.6828

300 W 80th PlMerrillville, Ind.

219.736.1400medspecindiana.com

SECOND PLACEDr. James Platis

210 East 86th PlMerrillville, Ind.219.795.1255

58 East WaltonChicago, Ill.

312.377.3333cosmedicclinic.com

THIRD PLACEVein Center of Northwest

Indiana1000 East 80th Pl

Suite 308Merrillville, Ind.312.643.5193

veinandcosmetics.com

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[ best ] HEALTH FOOD STORE

Baums Natural Foods407 W 81st AveMerrillville, Ind.219.769.3140

1864 45th AveMunster, Ind.219.922.1050

9486 Wicker Ave (US 41)St. John, Ind.219.558.8780baumsnaturalfoods.com

Everyone wants to live a healthy lifestyle. Yet often the modern busy, scheduled and stressed out life can keep people from reaching that goal. The talented staff at Baums Natural Foods has long been consulted as the experts when it comes to living well. Baums Natural Foods is the health and wellness destination of choice. Among a variety of health foods and supplements are a long list of services available in their Wellness Center, including: massage, reflexology, Reiki, infrared sauna, ion cleanse, body wraps and a juice bar.

.SECOND PLACEAu Naturel1708 LincolnwayValparaiso, Ind.219.465.1984

THIRD PLACENature’s Remedies2812 Calumet AveValparaiso, Ind.219.477.5566naturesremedies health.com

From left: Nicole Love (licensed esthetician), Jordan Stemer (PA-C), Laura Hoffman (MD), Erin Bartels (PA) all of Franciscan Medical Specialists

[ best ]HAIR

SALON

Vanis Salon & Day Spa

107 N Main St, Suite ACrown Point, Ind.

219.663.5200

221 US 41, Suite JSchererville, Ind.219.322.5600

1620 Country Club Rd, Suite A

Valparaiso, Ind.219.465.6414

vanis.net

Since first opening their doors in 1985, the talented

staff at Vanis Salon & Day Spa has strived to

stay ahead of the curve. Now with three locations

in Northwest Indiana, the much-loved salon

continues to be a favorite with our readers, who

voted them in as the Best Hair Salon in this year’s Best of the Region poll. “Many of the clients of mine back when we first opened now bring their

children in to the salon,” laughs Vanis Salon & Day

Spa owner Chris Valavanis. “That’s the joy of doing

what we do. There is nothing better.”

SECOND PLACERiah Hair Salon8025 Wicker Ave (US 41)

Saint John, Ind.219.365.6123riahsalon.com

THIRD PLACEColor Room

Salon & Day Spa14785 W 101st Ave

Dyer, Ind.219.365.0173

colorroomsalon.com

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 7

At Clear Ear, communication is vital for both customer and business. A highly trained

audioprosthologist assesses the needs of Clear Ear customers, about 75 percent of whom “already know each other, and they look out for each other,” says Laura Kotso, general manager.

With high visibility in the area, Clear Ear remains part of the close-knit community that is Griffith, says Kotso. And the positive response of the municipal government is another plus factor for the business owned by Tammy Spry.

“Whenever we need something as a business, the municipality is prompt returning phone calls, and they make us feel important,” says Kotso.

“Griffith is perfect—it’s safe and friendly, and we’re going to remain here.”

[ best ] HEARING AID

CENTERSpry-Clear Ear, Inc.

827 W 45th Ave // Griffith, Ind. // 219.934.9747

SECOND PLACECommunity Hospital Audiology901 MacArthur BlvdMunster, Ind.219.836.1600cohms.org

THIRD PLACEAccuQuest Hearing Centers2148 45th StHighland, Ind.219.922.4633

9120 Connecticut DrMerrillville, Ind.219.769.1222accuquest.com

Tammy Spry conducts a hearing test on a patient.

Exceptional DoctorsExtraordinary Care

w w w.MedSpecIndiana.com

8 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Beauty & Wellness

there once was a time when people considered a trip to a day spa as purely a time of pampering. Yet, in recent years, the evolution of the traditional day spa has become anything but traditional. “It’s much more about maintenance

these days,” explains Chris Valavanis, owner of Vanis Salon & Day Spa, recognized as the Best Spa in this year’s Best of the Region poll. “From their skin to their muscles to their hair, our clients come in to not only feel good, but to truly take care of themselves. It’s important to us to take care of one’s whole being.”

[ best ] SPA

Vanis Salon & Day Spa

107 N Main St, Suite ACrown Point, Ind.

219.663.5200

221 US 41, Suite JSchererville, Ind.219.322.5600

1620 Country Club Rd Suite A

Valparaiso, Ind.219.465.6414

vanis.net

SECOND PLACEState of Mind Salon & Day Spa111 W 94th PlCrown Point, Ind.219.663.7317stateofmindspa.com

THIRD PLACESerenity Salon & Spa880 Sidewalk RdChesterton, Ind.219.921.0300serenityofchesterton.com

Director of Spa and Salon Operations, Olga Pellegrino [far right] supervises a client’s manicure.

in partnership with

Builds A Strong Local Economy

•Creates More

Good Jobs

Puts Your Taxes To Good Use

•Maintains Community

Character

Where will you shop today?

s

www.ColorRoomSalon.com Dyer, IN 219-365-0173

This PDF is an FPO composite for viewing/proo�ng.Production �le that meets size speci�cations was uploaded to http://www.viewoutdoor.com/resources/

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 9

V isionPoint’s dedication to providing comprehensive eye exams and fashion-forward eyewear has been a family tradition for four decades. The emphasis is on expertise and fun as the personal family brand

continues: a promise to the communities they serve to provide a unique retail experience.

Doctors provide the expertise by completing comprehensive eye exams and the staff contributes with offering an enjoyable shopping experience. Choose from 50 different brands and 1,200-plus optical frames, from prescription sunglasses to sports-specific eyewear. VisionPoint offers a fresh look for the most fashion-conscious consumer.

“We are honored to be voted as the Region’s Best Vision Center; we thank all our customers who continually support VisionPoint,” say Jennifer Ebersberger and Amanda Bardoczi.

SECOND PLACEVisionworks

visionworks.com

THIRD PLACELTF Eye Clinics

Franciscan Physicians Hospital701 Superior Ave, Suite A

Munster, Ind.219.934.0150

lfteyeclinics.com

[ best ] VISION CARE

VisionPointFive convenient locations in

Northwest Indiana; visit visonpoint.com for more information

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[Left to right] Paulette Krstevski, Amanda Bardoczi, Atse Krstevski and Jennifer Ebersberger from the locally owned and operated, VisionPoint, this year’s winner for best vision care.

Valparaiso2106 N. Calumet

219.464.8200

portageUs Hwy 6

219.763.1538

sCHererVilleUs 30 & Hwy 41

219.322.5205

CrowN poiNtJewel-osco plaza

219.226.9571

laportepine lake Center

219.325.0404

Glasses Next Day Eyeglasses & Contacts Eye Exams Walk-ins & Outside Rx Welcome

For Voting Us Best Eye Care CenterFIVE YEARS STRAIGHT!!Thank YOUFor Voting Us Best Eye Care CenterFor Voting Us Best Eye Care CenterThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOUThank YOU

[ best ]ADULT

EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION

Purdue University Calumet

2200 169th St // Hammond, Ind.219.989.240 // purduecal.edu

SECOND PLACEValparaiso University1700 Chapel DrValparaiso, Ind.219.464.5000valpo.edu

THIRD PLACEIndiana University Northwest3400 BroadwayGary, Ind219.980.6500iun.edu

Purdue University Calumet has a long history of having served as a catalyst for hard-working adults who have persevered to earn a Purdue degree while raising a family, holding a job—frequently, more than one—and managing other responsibilities. Though “adult education institution” is a somewhat antiquated term within the current landscape of regional higher education, there is no

question that regardless of age, the education available at Purdue Calumet is appropriate for any qualified, ambitious student who is intent on persisting to graduation in a timely manner. The school remains committed to serving the needs of all students and helping enable them to earn a Purdue degree that they can put to beneficial, prosperous and fulfilling use.

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Franchisee Anthony Coberg says, “A lot of places come and go but we have been here since 1980 at the same location, on US 30 right by Meijer’s. Arthur Murray has been around over 100 years, so I think people like the consistency and our curriculum.

Arthur Murray’s focus is on social, ballroom and competitive dance for adults. Many couples enjoy taking Arthur Murray’s fine-tuned lessons during a date night, while singles enjoy working with an instructor for fitness and stress relief.

The Merrillville studio has been able to lend their expertise to a number of projects, including the local Dancing with the Stars event and charities including the Barden Gary Foundation.

Arthur Murray’s expert dance instructors and family atmosphere can turn even the most left-footed aspiring dancer into a more graceful dancer and happy human being.

[ best ]COLLEGE/UNIVERSITYPurdue University Calumet2200 169th St // Hammond, Ind.219.989.2400 // purduecal.edu

Academic excellence is the foundation of Purdue University Calumet. The degree that graduates earn, is not only world-respected, but distinguished by an innovative experiential learning component in which all undergraduate students apply traditional lessons within a real world environment. While an education at Purdue Calumet may not be for everyone, it is appealing to those ambitious, persistent students who are eager to succeed on campus and beyond.

Concerned faculty, cutting edge resources, support services, an engaging campus community, and plenty of experiences and opportunities push Purdue Calumet’s button of excellence. Additionally, Purdue Calumet continues to assess, study and strive to connect the educational needs of today with the anticipated challenges of tomorrow. While “best” is a subjective term, meeting the needs of students, faculty, staff, region and state is the university Purdue Calumet aspires and commits to be.

SECOND PLACEValparaiso University1700 Chapel DrValparaiso, Ind.219.464.5000valpo.edu

THIRD PLACEIndiana University Bloomington107 S Indiana AveBloomington, Ind.812.855.4848iun.edu

[ best ]DANCE SCHOOL

Arthur Murray1205 W Lincoln Hwy (US 30), Suite 3

Merrillville, Ind.219.738.9041

arthurmurrays.com

SECOND PLACEDonna Brum Dance Studio2334 South Cline Ave

Schererville, Ind.219.865.9850

donnabrumdancers.com

THIRD PLACEFred Astaire

Ballroom Dancefredastairechicago.com

Registration Dates: August 8th & 9th, 4pm - 7pmSchererville, Indiana

Ballet • Pointe • Tap • Jazz • Hip Hop • Modern/Lyrical Turns & Leaps • Tumbling • Funk Tap • Jazz Pom

For 44 years we have been providing technical training through dance education.

Directors: Donna Brum & Tracie Borowy

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

Home of DANZ-ELITE & Hip Hop

K’Nektionz Competition Teams

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 11

[ best ]GYMNASTICS FACILITY

Patti’s All American Gymnastics1530 Joliet St (US 30) // Dyer, Ind.

219.865.2274 // pattisallamerican.com

In 1969, Patti Komara founded her business and since then has become internationally known for her gymnastics training products. Over 3,900 gymnastics school owners worldwide count on Patti’s expertise to train their staff by using Patti’s training DVDs, books, award systems, progression sheets, and gymnastics, dance, cheer, swim, and educational preschool lesson plans. It is no wonder that Patti’s All American Gymnastics has become the region’s best multi-faceted facility with programs such as gymnastics, dance, cheer, karate, swim, and even camps.

Rachel Tripp, general manager, says, “We have competent, loving teachers, a super clean colorful facility, and they learn a skill a safe and progressive method. Everyone leaves having fun, and that’s what sets us apart. A lot of our teachers are homegrown and have started as students with us so it’s a family atmosphere.”

The facility sports an Aussie hotbed trampoline, a tumble track, uneven bars and balance beams, and all of the gymnastics equipment. Patti’s takes preschool, walking age, all the way up. Patti’s averages about 1,600 students but every individual gets attention.” We just want kids to have fun no matter what their goals,” says Tripp.

SECOND PLACEMidwest Training and Ice Center10600 White Oak Ave

Dyer, Ind.219.558.8811

midwesttrainingandice.com

THIRD PLACEHorizon Gymnastics & Cheer Academy

1254 Horse Prairie AveValparaiso, Ind.219.477.6542

horizongymnasticscenter.com

Patti Komara, helps a student at her training facility.

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Let’s Dance!Arthur Murray offers many classes to make dancing

a part of your life!

• Romantic Night Out (no kids!)• Prepare for Events - Weddings, Cruises, etc.• Social Confidence• Reduce Stress• Dancing is Exercise!• Make new Friends• Meet new People

$35 Special Call Now!

CELEBRATING

®

Lake Co. - 219.738.9041 Porter Co. - 800.657.3322www.arthurmurrays.com

Experience PURDUE CALUMET!

Purdue Calumet offers a world respected Purdue education in dozens of baccalaureate and graduate level fields of study. Through distinctive experiential learning, students apply what

they have learned in real world environments—and build impressive resumes!

LIKE us on facebook!

OPEN UP A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES

An equal access, equal opportunity, affirmative action employer that is committed to a diverse workplace

APPLY NOW for the summer and fall terms!

For more information, call 219/989-2217

or visit purduecal.edu

1530 Joliet St. Dyer, IN 46311 (219) 865-2274

www.pattisallamerican.com

Come See Why We’ve Been Best of the Region for Over 15 Years!

Mention this ad for 2 weeks free until 7/1/13 Intro offer only.

Excludes Swim and Gym-N-Learn

The Leader in Gymnastics, Dance and Swim

• Gymnastics • Dance • Tumbling and Trampoline • Gym-N-Learn Educational Preschool• Swim lessons • Karate • Birthday parties• Gymnastics or Dance Camps

[ best ]BOWLING

ALLEYStardust Bowl

3925 E Lincoln Hwy (US 30)Merrillville, Ind. // 219.942.0432

1330 Sheffield AveDyer, Ind. // 219. 322.3666

bowlstardust.com

Whether you are 5 or 95, bowling is great entertainment, says Dan

Barton, general manager of the Merrillville Stardust Bowl location.

Stardust opened in 1973 and all ages still flock to its two locations for

bowling and entertainment. Barton says, “It’s a recognizable brand here

in Northwest Indiana … I still get people coming in here all the time who say they’ve been coming here for 30 odd years. We’ve got league

bowlers who have been here that long, too.” Some staff members have worked at Stardust for 10

or 20 years, Barton says, noting that they’ve been blessed with a great group of employees. “They

bring that level of experience. It’s a friendly face at the front counter

and the bar, wherever you are.” 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 and beverages.

SECOND PLACEPlaza Lanes8101 Kennedy Ave

Highland, Ind. // 219.923.3800plazafunbowl.com

THIRD PLACESet ’Em Up Lanes

and Lounge135 N. Broad St // Griffith, Ind.

219.924.3181

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[ best ]CASINOFour Winds Casino11111 Wilson Rd // New Buffalo, Mich. 866.494.6371 // fourwindscasino.com

Josh Taustein, Public Relations for Four Winds in New Buffalo, says the casino is home to 3,000 slot machines and a smoke-free slot room. Unlike other casinos in the area, Four Winds New Buffalo

features wide-area progressive jackpots, which link to other Native American casinos around the country and produce some of the highest jackpots in the region, Taustein says. Recent life-changing jackpots include a $744,966.02 jackpot hit on January 1, 2013; a $334,298.78 jackpot hit in December 2012; and a $409,722 jackpot hit in October 2012. New players who sign up for the W Club can win up to $5,000 in free slot play.

SECOND PLACEHorseshoe Casino777 Casino Center DrHammond, Ind.219.473.7000horseshoehammond.com

THIRD PLACEBlue Chip Casino777 Blue Chip DrMichigan City, Ind.219.879.7711888.879.7711bluechipcasino.com

[ best ]CASINO SLOTS

Four Winds Casino

11111 Wilson Rd.New Buffalo, Mich.

866.494.6371fourwindscasino.com

See Best Casino

SECOND PLACEHorseshoe

Casino777 Casino Center Dr

Hammond, Ind.219.473.7000

horseshoehammond.com

THIRD PLACEBlue Chip

Casino777 Blue Chip Dr

Michigan City, Ind.219.879.7711888.879.7711

bluechipcasino.com

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[ best ]CASINO POKERHorseshoe Casino777 Casino Center Dr // 219.473.7000horseshoehammond.com

“Horseshoe Casino is home to the ultimate poker action in the Midwest, offering a one-of-a-kind poker experience that rivals some of the greatest casinos in the country,” Jennifer Galle, Vice President of Marketing, says. “We have more than 350,000 square feet of casino floor and feature the single largest poker room in the Midwest, named for the founder of the original Horseshoe in downtown Las Vegas—Benny Binion.”

Located just 20 minutes from downtown Chicago, the casino’s spacious gambling floor also consists of more than 100 table games and the most slot machines in the Chicagoland area. Poker enthusiasts have shown a great attraction and appreciation to Horseshoe because of the extensive poker offerings and our association with the World Series of Porker and the Chicago Poker Classic, Galle says. Whether a serious or casual gambler, Horseshoe has something for everyone—offering nonstop thrills and unparalleled service.

[ best ]CASINO DINING

Jack Binion’s Steak HouseHorseshoe Casino777 Casino Center DrHammond, Ind.219.473.6028opentable.comhorseshoehammond.com

Horseshoe Casino’s Director of Food Operations, Chris Baulo is excited to serve up his new menu at Jack

Binion’s. “Jack Binion’s strives to re-shape the perception of what people think of a traditional steakhouse,” Baulo says, “This season we launched a menu that incorporates a twist of mixing the old with the new, a fresh take on different variations of classic steakhouse favorites.”

“At Jack Binion’s we support our local purveyors,” Baulo says. “Our meats come from pastures within 250 miles of Chicago and, like our family farmers, we have both a passion and personal commitment to providing our customers with the best ingredients.”

Binion’s is open Wednesday through Sunday and located directly on Lake Michigan with extraordinary views of both the Chicago skyline and Hammond Marina.

SECOND PLACEThe Buffet at Four Winds Casino11111 Wilson RdNew Buffalo, Mich.866.494.6371fourwindscasino.com

THIRD PLACEWilliam B’s SteakhouseBlue Chip Casino777 Blue Chip DrMichigan City, Ind.219.879.7711888.879.7711bluechipcasino.com

SECOND PLACEFour Winds

Casino11111 Wilson Rd

New Buffalo, Mich.866.494.6371

fourwindscasino.com

THIRD PLACEBlue Chip

Casino777 Blue Chip Dr

Michigan City, Ind.219.879.7711888.879.7711

bluechipcasino.com

SECOND PLACEFour Winds Casino11111 Wilson RdNew Buffalo, Mich.866.494.6371fourwindscasino.com

THIRD PLACEBlue Chip Casino777 Blue Chip DrMichigan City, Ind.219.879.7711888.879.7711bluechipcasino.com

“Horseshoe offers table action like no other—with more than 100 tables available for play every day,” Mitzie Slavicek, Director of Table Games, says. “We continually offer the best odds and the highest limits around—the kind of action unmatched in some Vegas casinos.”

Horseshoe’s diverse table offerings include everything from craps to blackjack to roulette to baccarat to le cheung, a unique Asian gambling experience.

“As we look to come up with new and exciting concepts never before seen on the floor, we just announced our unprecedented Three Card Poker 6 Card Bonus side bet where players can win $1 million in just one hand, the first-ever table game at Horseshoe offering an instant jackpot of this size,” Slavicek says.

[ best ]CASINO TABLE

GAMES

Horseshoe Casino

777 Casino Center DrHammond, Ind.219.473.7000

horseshoehammond.com

The Whiting-Robertsdale Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the City of Whiting presents Pierogi Fest each year, and this year, from July 26-28, families will flock back to the region for their favorite festival.

Laurie Brown, executive secretary for the Whiting-Robertsdale Chamber

of Commerce, says the festival is always a great time.“It’s our parade that makes us so popular. It’s a

lot of fun and everyone in it tries to do something funny. It changes every year and you have no idea what is going to happen.”

The festival features all types of entertainment, from religious presentations to country music, rock and roll, Polish bands and international dancers. It also boasts Mr. Pierogi’s song festival and the Pieroguettes. The beer garden is spacious, with live rock and roll from the ‘60s and current bands.

Not-for-profit organizations host several types of games for children and families, as well as live entertainment by clowns and other characters. Some kid-friendly rides are also available, such as bumpy barrels, a bounce house and a carousel. Well-known mascots such as South Paw, the White Sox mascot and Rusty the RailCat are also present for the parade.

“There is a lot of fun for ages 0 to over 100,” Brown says.

Tof Commerce, says the festival is always a great time.

lot of fun and everyone in it tries to do something funny. It changes every year and you have no idea what is going to happen.”

presentations to country music, rock and roll, Polish bands and international dancers. It also boasts Mr. Pierogi’s song festival and the Pieroguettes. The beer garden is spacious, with live rock and roll from the ‘60s and current bands.

and families, as well as live entertainment by clowns and other characters. Some kid-friendly rides are also available, such as bumpy barrels, a bounce house and a carousel. Well-known mascots such as South Paw, the White Sox mascot and Rusty the RailCat are also present for the parade.

SECOND PLACEPopcorn Festivalvalparaisoevents.com

THIRD PLACELake County Fairlake-county-fair.com

SECOND PLACEMarshall

County National Blueberry Festival

blueberryfestival.org

THIRD PLACEFrankfort

Fall Festivalfrankfortfallfestival.info

Attracting more than one million visitors last year, the Taste of Chicago remains a hit. The free food festival underwent a makeover in 2012; it was shortened to five days and no longer coincides with the Fourth of July. Pop-ups, booths that feature new restaurants each day, were added and were so popular that the feature will expand this year. These changes improved the event and made it more user friendly, Mary Slowik, Taste of

Chicago manager, says. The Taste is the only place where you can enjoy food from all the areas of Chicago in one location, Slowik says. Attendees can try different types of ethnic cuisine, cutting edge restaurants and the tried and true icons. In addition to great eats, the festival offers distinguished musical entertainment like the band fun., which headlines this year. “We are still in the planning stages of the event but we will have plenty of new restaurants and performers and attractions for people to enjoy,” Slowik says.

[ best ]FESTIVAL NON-LOCAL

Taste of Chicago tasteofchicago.us

[ best ]GOLF

COURSE

White Hawk Country Club1001 White Hawk Dr

Crown Point, Ind.219.661.1300

whitehawkcountryclub.com

White Hawk Country Club features a 7300 yard par-72

golf course and is ranked as one of Indiana’s ten most difficult courses. It is nestled amongst seven large lakes and features 250 acres of woods, prairies, creeks and wetlands and is

home to a beautifully remodeled clubhouse. The clubhouse offer

the newly introduced River Rock Restaurant featuring

menu choices designed by Chef Santana. White Hawk opens

this golf season with 120 GPS-equipped carts. The new owners

are dedicated to preserving White Hawk as the premiere

golf course in Northwest Indiana, Food and Beverage

Director Anthony Lopez says. The Pro Shop carries a large

array of golf clubs, trendy fashions and the latest golf equipment and gift items.

SECOND PLACEBriar Ridge

Country Club123 Country Club Dr

Schererville, Ind.219.322.3660

briarridgecc.com

THIRD PLACEAberdeen245 Town Rd

Valparaiso, Ind.219.462.5050

golfataberdeen.com

Entertainment[ best ]FESTIVAL NW INDIANA

Pierogi Fest pierogifest.net

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A lthough it just opened Dec. 7, Jak’s Warehouse is already the life of the party in Northwest Indiana. The indoor family fun center features six themed party rooms and offers customized packages. Party goers enjoy pizza and birthday cake, then it’s off to experiences like bumper cars, mini golf, go-karts, laser tag, the arcade and Ballocity. “We are really seeing outstanding numbers with our birthday parties,” says Lisa Carpenter, manager of events and marketing. With its climate control and unique design, Jak’s is unlike anything in the Region, she says. “It appeals to all ages.” Jak’s offers 20 percent off birthday parties held Monday through Thursday and has texting and e-mail clubs that offer coupons.

[ best ]HOTEL

MICHIGAN

Four Winds Casino Resort

11111 Wilson RdNew Buffalo, Mich.

1.866.4WINDS1fourwindscasino.com/hotel

The hotel at the Four Winds Casino Resort is an impeccable way to escape the everyday

with all the hotel amenities found at a luxury resort. Expect the very best in elegant décor

and accommodations, exciting cuisine, lively entertainment and nightlife from the

finest hotel in New Buffalo. Many of the rooms boast sublime views of nature and

the forest, and all rooms offer the thrill and excitement of the beautiful Four Winds

Casino. “After an expansion in 2012 that added a nine-story, 250 room hotel tower, Four Winds News Buffalo now has a total

of 415 luxurious hotel rooms. This includes a mix of rooms ranging from the 1,000

square foot Celebrity Suite; an 800 square foot Deluxe Suite; a 475 square foot Studio

Suite; a 500 square foot Junior Suite; and a 400 square foot Standard Room. Each

room includes granite countertops, Serta Beds, 14 ½ inch pillow-top mattresses,

flat screen HD televisions, coffee makers and complimentary Starbucks coffee,” says

Joshua Taustein, public relations for Four Winds Casino Resort.

SECOND PLACEMarina Grand Resort

600 W Water StNew Buffalo, Mich.

269.469.9900marinagrandresort.com

THIRD PLACECityFlatsHotel

61 E 7th StHolland, Mich.616.796.2100

cityflatshotel.com

[ best ]FUN CENTER

Jak’s Warehouse221 US 41, Suite F // Schererville, Ind. // 219.322.5257

jakswarehouse.com

SECOND PLACEZao Island

1050 Horse Prairie AveValparaiso, Ind.

219.462.1194zaoisland.net

THIRD PLACEZig E’s Funland8176 Wicker Ave (US 41)

St John, Ind.219.558.0596

zigesfunland.com

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 15

[ best ]PLACE FOR A CHILD’S BIRTHDAY

PARTY

Jak’s Warehouse221 US Route 41, Suite F

Schererville, Ind.219.322.5257

jakswarehouse.com

SECOND PLACETyler’s Tender

350 E US 30Schererville, Ind.219.322.5590

tylerstender.com

THIRD PLACEGary South Shore

RailCatsUS Steel Yard

One Stadium PlazaGary, Ind.

219.882.2255railcatsbaseball.com

16 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

[ best ]HOTEL

NW INDIANA

Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza

800 E Lincoln Hwy (US 30)Merrillville, Ind.

219.769.6311starplaza.com

SECOND PLACEBlue Chip Casino

777 Blue Chip DrMichigan City, Ind.

219.879.7711bluechipcasino.com

THIRD PLACEHilton Garden Inn

501 Gateway BlvdChesterton, Ind.

219.983.9500hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com

7775 Mississippi StMerrillville, Ind.

219.769.7100hiltonhotelmerrillville.com

Entertainment

[ best ]COUNTRY CLUB

Briar Ridge Country Club123 Country Club Dr // Schererville, Ind.219.322.3660 // briarridgecc.com

“Briar Ridge Country Club is family oriented,” club manager Ronald Falaschetti said. “We do whatever we can to provide a facility that families will enjoy. We are proud of our loyal and engaged members. Our golf course is recognized as the finest in Northwest Indiana.” The foundation for Briar Ridge Country Club is based on a commitment to service and gracious hospitality. Along with enjoying golf and tennis, fellow club members meet friends for formal and casual meals, relax at the Olympic-size pool and join the fun with regularly scheduled events and tournaments. Briar Ridge is a private member-owned club focused on delivering the ultimate member experience. It features an impeccably manicured and challenging 27-hole golf course.

SECOND PLACEWhite Hawk Country Club1001 White Hawk DrCrown Point, Ind.219.661.1300whitehawkcountryclub.com

THIRD PLACEInnsbrook Country Club6701 Taft StMerrillville, Ind.219.980.9060innsbrookcc.com

The Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza in Merrillville is a captivating retreat for both business and leisure guests. Their facility offers a variety of restaurants, lounges, and entertainment options; unparalleled business meeting

and conference facilities; thoughtful services and amenities and attentive staff. Amenities include two pools, including a signature indoor Atrium pool; the luxurious House of Bianco Day Spa, located adjacent to the hotel and featuring a full menu of treatments and services; and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Director of Sales & Marketing Deann Patena says, “We’re a staycation destination. From dining, special events and weddings, to live entertainment and the most impressive function space in the region, we believe a lot of our appeal stems from how multidimensional we are. It’s all here. ”

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A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 17

SECOND PLACEThe Venue at

Horseshoe Casino777 Casino Center Dr

Hammond, Ind.219.473.7000

horseshoehammond.com

THIRD PLACECenter for Visual

& Performing Arts

1040 Ridge RdMunster, Ind.

219.836.1930cvpa.org

[ best ]LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

VENUE

Star Plaza Theatre8001 Delaware Pl // Merrillville, Ind. // 219.769.6311

starplazatheatre.com

With 343 hotel guestrooms and hotel suites, four restaurants and lounges including the distinctive T.J. Maloney’s Authentic Irish Pub, and a full-service Starbucks®, Star Plaza Theatre and the Radisson Merrillville is an entertaining get away. There are a number of special entertainment events offered throughout the year, as well as regularly scheduled entertainment throughout the hotel.

Director of Sales & Marketing Deann Patena says, “Our live entertainment is free. Quality at no cost is pretty hard to come by and we take great pride in carrying on our legacy as the epicenter of entertainment in Northwest Indiana, as well as putting our patrons’ interests first. We listen closely to what our guests like and want to hear and experience, and enjoy offering various musical genres for every preference. We are also known for our popular themed parties and highly anticipated annual events, such as our unprecedented New Year’s Eve Bash and St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations.”

The Jacksons were just one of the popular performances last year at the Star Plaza Theatre.

Visit us online and learn morebriarridgecc.com219.322.3660 • info@briarridgecc.com

123 Country Club Drive Scherervile, IN

Thanks for Voting us“THE BEST”“THE BEST”

It’s a Family Experience and You Don’t have to Live Here to be a Member

JULY 11

SEPT. 7

JULY 19

NOV. 3

18 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013

At Star Plaza in Merrillville, entertainment offerings run the gamut, from comedy to oldies musical groups. For more than 30 years the famous

3,400-seat Star Plaza Theatre has put Merrillville and Chicagoland on the entertainment map with its outstanding acts and shows. Their legacy

has grown to include other exciting entertainment venues within this multidimensional destination. What is perhaps most appealing about the

Star Plaza Theatre is that there is not a bad seat in the house. This intimate theatre boasts two seating levels in a semi-circle around the stage. The main

floor level seats 2,000 people. The mezzanine level, which overhangs the main level about midway, seats 1,400. The furthest seat in the auditorium is only

120 feet from the stage. What makes this experience stress-free and a benefit over other theaters in Chicago, is that there is ample parking, at no additional

charge, available in well-lighted parking lots surrounding the theatre building. From Alice Cooper to Sesame Street Live, the Star Plaza Theatre has it all.

Entertainment[ best ]MOVIE THEATER

AMC TheatresAMC Showplace Schererville 16875 Deer Creek DrSchererville, Ind.219.322.9762

AMC Showplace Schererville 121400 Eagle Ridge DrSchererville, Ind.219.322.9264

AMC Showplace Hobart 122590 Southlake Mall DrHobart, Ind.219.755.0377amctheatres.com

“This is a great honor and we’re excited that people feel we’re providing an amazing experience at AMC,” AMC Theatre Representative Ryan Noonan says.

With a combined total of 40 screens in Schererville and Hobart, AMC Showplace Theatres offer a wide variety of movie choices for its patrons, including an IMAX screen at AMC Schererville 16.

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 free. Stubs card holders can order movie tickets online with no convenience fees and receive additional special offers throughout the year.

SECOND PLACEPortage 16 IMAX6550 American WayPortage, Ind.219.764.7469imax.com

THIRD PLACE49’er Drive In675 N Calumet AveValparaiso, Ind.219.462.612249erdrivein.com

[ best ]MARINA

Hammond Marina701 Casino Center Dr

Hammond, Ind.219.659.7678

hammondmarina.com

SECOND PLACEMichigan City Marina

Washington Park200 Heisman Harbor Rd

Michigan City, Ind.219.872.1712

mcmarina.org

THIRD PLACEBurnham Harbor

Chicago1559 S Lake Shore Dr

Chicago, Ill.312.747.7009

chicagoharbors.info/harbors/burnham.php

[ best ]LIVE THEATER GROUP

Star Plaza Theatre 8001 Delaware Pl // Merrillville, Ind. // 219.769.6311 // starplazatheatre.com

SECOND PLACETheatre at the Center

1040 Ridge RdMunster, Ind.

219.836.3255theatreatthecenter.com

THIRD PLACEMemorial

Opera House104 E Indiana Ave

Valparaiso, Ind.219.548.9137

memorialoperahouse.com

L 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 sights from land. For the boater, the Hammond Marina offers competitively-priced 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 has also been named a Clean Marina by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 19

Taltree Arboretum & Gardens is a remarkable asset to the Northwest

Indiana region. Sitting on top of the Valparaiso moraine, Taltree boasts 360 acres of woody plant collections, formal gardens, wetlands, woodlands, and prairies. Numerous species of mammals, birds, insects, invertebrates, and amphibians have come to call Taltree home. Alexis Faust, president and CEO

says, “Our Railway Garden is one of the largest, most complex, and beautiful in the country. This year we have a dozen new engines that are made here in Indiana that the kids can’t wait to see beginning this spring. We have one of the most beautiful and historically accurate restored tall grass prairies and we have bluebirds nesting. Our trumpeter swans are nesting here and they are endangered in Indiana. We have great exhibits coming this spring including a fairy garden, our children’s garden, a new music garden, and there is a wonderful concert series, so there is always something going on.”

[ best ]MUSEUM

Museum of Science and Industry5700 S Lake Shore Dr // Chicago, Ill. // 773.684.1414 // msichicago.org

The Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI), the largest science center in the Western Hemisphere, is home to more than 35,000 artifacts and nearly 14 acres of hands-on experiences designed to spark scientific inquiry and creativity. Since opening their doors in 1933, they have welcomed a mind-boggling 175 million guests from around the world. Their mission, to inspire the inventive genius in everyone by presenting captivating and compelling experiences that are real and educational, is realized through world-class exhibits such as Science Storms, the newest permanent exhibit revealing the science behind some of nature’s most powerful phenomena, and the U-505 Submarine, the only German U-boat in the United States. “We have a world-class museum that offers things no one else has,” says Lisa Miner, director of public relations for the MSI. “It is amazing the sheer volume and content we have, and everything is hands-on, interactive. It’s all under one roof,” she says.

SECOND PLACEField Museum1400 S Lake Shore DrChicago, Ill.312.922.9410fieldmuseum.org

THIRD PLACEChicago Children’s Museum700 E Grand AveChicago, Ill.312.527.1000chicagochildrensmuseum.org

SECOND PLACEShrine of

Christ’s Passion10630 Wicker Ave (US 41)

St. John, Ind.219.365.6010

shrineofchristspassion.org

THIRD PLACEMorton

Arboretum4100 Illinois Route 53

Lisle, Ill.630.968.0074mortonarb.org

[ best ]PUBLIC

GARDEN, OUTDOOR

EXHIBITION

Taltree Arboretum & Gardens

450 West 100 NorthValparaiso, Ind.219.462.0025

taltree.org

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[ best ]ASIAN FOOD

China Buffet1640 US Route 41Schererville, Ind.219.865.2888

In a world of picky eaters, it can be tough to find a place that everyone in the family loves. Yet, readers agree that China Buffet is one of those places. Voted as the first place winner in the Best Asian Food category in the “2013 Best of the Region,” Schererville’s very own China Buffet is known for their scrumptious dishes and wide variety of entrees and desserts. Consider trying something new and expand your palate a bit. Whether a quick dinner on a weekday or a family gathering on the weekend, China Buffet is sure to delight everyone.

SECOND PLACEThe China House120 LincolnwayValparaiso, Ind.219.462.5788

THIRD PLACESiam Marina Thai Cuisine16846 S Oak Park AveTinley Park, Ill.708.862.3438siammarina.com

There is nothing like the smell of homemade goodies, and walking into Butterfingers Bakery is a smell our readers love. Voted once again as the Best Bakery, Butterfingers

continues to thrive thanks to a loyal fan base and amazing culinary creations. Opened in 1985, the family owned bakery is known for everything yummy. From cupcakes to croissants and a growing list of deli goodies, Butterfingers is the place to go when you are in the mood for something special. Having a party? Consider ordering from Butterfingers and making a real impressive impression on your guests. You will be glad you did.

Butterfingers is the place to go when you are in the mood for something special.

[ best ]BAKERY

Butterfingers 2552 45th Ave Highland, Ind. 219.924.6464

921D Ridge Rd Munster, Ind.

219.836.4202butterfingersbakery.com

SECOND PLACEStrack & Van Til

strackandvantil.com

THIRD PLACEAlmira’s Bakery & Pastry Shop

2635 169th StHammond, Ind.219.844.4334

almirasbakery.com

[ best ]BANQUET FACILITY

Avalon Manor Banquet Center

3550 E US 30Merrillville, Ind.219.945.0888

avalonmanor.com

T he Kaiafas family name has meant excellence in the Northwest Indiana

restaurant and banquet scene since the 1960s

Peter Kaiafas, owner and manager of the 16,500-square-foot Avalon Manor Banquet Center, said they offer consistently exceptional service and food while also evolving over time to stay fresh.

A great location, right off major highways, and a quiet natural setting, complete with pond and gazebos, offers the best of both worlds. A hands-on approach to management and customer service also appeals to guests.

“Our employees make our business successful,” Kaiafas said, highlighting the wait staff, bartenders, office sales staff and

kitchen staff behind the scenes including Chef Adam Brown, who was recently promoted to executive chef.

SECOND PLACEStrongbow Inn2405 E US 30Valparaiso, Ind.219.462.5121strongbowinn.com

THIRD PLACEHalls of St. George905 E Joliet StSchererville, Ind.219.865.9411hallsofstgeorge.com

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 21

[ best ]CATERER

Strack & Van Til svtcatering.com

Strack & Van Til has been the region’s fresh neighborhood catering store for more than 25 years, offering award-winning catering services and superb food unlike anywhere else. From graduation parties to family picnics, Kitchen Fresh Catering makes entertaining effortless, and delicious. Offerings include everything from box lunches, to upscale appetizers. Platters include varieties of meats and cheeses, sandwiches, chicken wings, seafood, and fruits and vegetables. Entire buffets are offered as well, including chicken, breakfast, or Italian, to name a few. “It’s the personalized service that sets us apart,” says Brenda Wright, catering manager. “We have a great staff that goes out of their way for our customers. We can send staff to set up and serve at the functions, or you can just order from staff in store, but either way, you will have the best service. Our food quality is exceptional, and our prices are reasonable. We have been catering more formal events lately, especially with our line of high-end appetizers, including mayor’s luncheons.”

SECOND PLACEComfort’s Catering9585 N Industrial DrSt. John, Ind.219.365.6506comforts-catering.com

THIRD PLACEButterfingers2552 45th AveHighland, Ind.219.924.6464

921D Ridge RdMunster, Ind.219.836.4202butterfingersbakery.com

[ best ]BAR/LOUNGE

Houlihan’s1550 US 41

Schererville, Ind.219.864.0077houlihans.com

SECOND PLACEBridges’ Scoreboard

121 N Griffith BlvdGriffith, Ind.

219.924.2206bridgesscoreboard.com

THIRD PLACETexas Corral

texascorral.net

Houlihan’s bartenders have their own recipes for every drink, said Craig

Carnagey, general manager of the Schererville location. “The drinks you get here, you’re not going to get anywhere else.” Martinis, mini martinis and long islands are all popular choices. Customers also love to order “flights.” These mini tastes allow them to sample martinis flavors, wine offerings or Three Floyds beers before they commit. “The bartenders are friendly and attentive,” Carnagey said. “They will guarantee that you will like any drink or they’ll get you one that you like.”

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121 N. Griffith Blvd • Griffith, IN • 219-924-2206We are noW Smoke Free! FamouS For our Lake Perch!121 N. Griffith Blvd • Griffith, IN •

Premier place to go for sports and food. Watch any sporting

event on one of our 28 big screen hDTVs in surround sound.

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Premier place to go for sports and food. Watch any sporting

event on one of our 28 big screen hDTVs in surround sound.

Thanks for Voting Us #1 Sports Bar & Grill and Best Bar/Lounge

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219-865-9411905 East Joliet Street • Schererville (Old Rte. 30 & Broad St.)

www.hallsofstgeorge.com

Halls of St. GeorgeNorthwest Indiana’s Finest Banquet Facility

with thREE SEpaRatE ROOmS:

“the mediterranean,” “the adriatic,” and “the Lounge”

we can accommodate up to 1,000 guests. Exquisite cuisine prepared on-site by our

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22 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

[ best ]CHEFChris Pohl

Giovanni’s603 Ridge RdMunster, Ind.

219.836.6220giosmunster.com

Food & Drink

SECOND PLACEJoseph GaalSage425 Sand Creek Dr NChesterton, Ind.219.926.6500sagerestaurant.net

THIRD PLACEEddie LuickBon Femme66 LincolnwayValparaiso, Ind.219.531.0612bonfemme.com

A s the executive chef of Giovanni’s since 1992, Chris Pohl knows what it takes to create a memorable culinary experience. Focusing in on the traditional cleaner

tastes that enable customers to “truly remember what they have eaten”, Pohl says his cooking philosophies began when he was just nine years old. “I was the kid growing up watching Julia Child on TV,” chuckles Pohl, who was voted as Best Chef in this year’s Best of the Region poll. “From her, I learned about making things from scratch, which I continue to do here at Giovanni’s.”

[ best ]COFFEE

Dunkin’ Donutsdunkindonuts.com

For more than 60 years, Dunkin’ Donuts has lived by the mantra, “Freshly ground, freshly brewed, freshly served,” so it should come as no surprise that readers voted the popular chain as having the best coffee in the region. There are more than 30 Dunkin’ Donuts locations in Northwest Indiana, and several more in the south suburbs of Chicago, said Kathy Nowicki, senior marketing manager-Midwest for Dunkin’ Brands. Although the coffee shop offers a wide variety of drinks, the best selling coffee product is regular coffee — which is based on the same recipe used when the chain was founded in 1950. “We always grind our coffee just before brewing, and our beans are ground to a precise level to match our coffee brewers,” Nowicki said. “Also, we grind our coffee fresh every 18 minutes. It’s quite simple — at Dunkin’ Donuts, we are all about serving the best cup of coffee any way our customers enjoy it.”

SECOND PLACEMcDonald’s

mcdonalds.com

THIRD PLACEThe Blue

Room Cafe5246 Hohman Ave

Hammond, Ind.219.933.8124thebrcafe.com

[ best ]DRIVE-IN

The 49’er675 N Calumet Ave // Valparaiso, Ind. // 219.462.6122 // 49erdrivein.com

The 49’er Drive-in Theatre will once again open soon for the season, and is approaching celebrating 60 years of movie magic. The theater was founded in 1956 and served as a hot spot for families to gather on warm summer evenings. New this year is a digital projector, a move that will allow the drive-in theater to continue to show the latest flicks out of

Hollywood. Named one of USA Today’s “Top 10 Drive-Ins,” The 49’er is a favorite among region residents who enjoy the nostalgia of drive-in movie theaters. The drive-in has nearly 20,000 likes on its Facebook page and updates movie-goers with the latest events and flicks scheduled to appear.

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SECOND PLACEBlue Top Drive-In

8801 Indianapolis BlvdHighland, Ind.219.838.1233

bluetopdrivein.com

THIRD PLACEThe Port Drive-In

419 N Calumet RdChesterton, Ind.219.926.3500

theportdrivein.net

may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 23

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[ best ]FAMILY RESTAURANT

Round the Clock roundtheclock.com

For fifty years, Round the Clock has been providing families in Northwest Indiana with quality food, service, and value. The original Round the Clock opened on the south side of 5th Avenue, one block west of Broadway in the early 1960s and today there are six locations that are family owned and operated. Each restaurant stays true to

the concept of a family-run restaurant providing local residents quality food. Minas Litos, owner, says, “We give our customers great value. We also give them great food and great customer service. But it really comes down to our great staff. We have a wonderful management and wonderful people who work here, and just like any organization, it’s the people who really make the difference. They make you feel welcome here, just like you’re part of our family.” In addition to their ample selections of home-made cooking served in a cozy environment, Round the Clock also offers catering for every occasion, including sandwiches, pastas, seafood specialties, kabobs, ribs, steaks, and more.

SECOND PLACETexas Corral

Locations in Highland, Portage, Merrillville

and Michigan City, Ind.texascorral.net

THIRD PLACEKelsey’s

Steakhouse2300 US 30

Valparaiso, Ind.219.465.4022

5630 US 6Portage, Ind.

219.762.2242kelseyssteakhouse.com

Highland(9010 Indianapolis Blvd.) 219-923-4546

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

219-769-1591

Schererville(909 West Lincoln Highway)

219-322-4940

Orland Park(16310 South LaGrange Rd.)

708-226-8099

RoundTheClock.com

Tradition Of Great TasteTradition Of Great Taste

Thank you for voting us...

As a special thank you....mention this ad!

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[ best ]FINE DINING RESTAURANT

Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant2120 Southlake Mall, Suite 500

Merrillville, Ind.219.795.9463

coopershawkwinery.com

Modern, casual dining in an inviting atmosphere becomes an unforgettable experience when the best in fresh and creative cuisine is offered. “Our goal

is to make it fun and easy for people to learn more about wine

and food, try new flavors and expand their palates,” says Tim

McEnery, Cooper’s Hawk founder and CEO. “We’ve brought

together some of the best talents in winemaking and the culinary arts to create inventive, flavorful

food and wine pairings.” The menu reflects an upscale offering

in delightfully surprising and pleasing pairings. At the same time, says McEnery, Cooper’s Hawk Restaurant wants to be approachable and affordable.

SECOND PLACEGino’s Steakhouse

1259 Joliet St (US 30)Dyer, Ind.

219.865.3854

600 E 81st Ave (US 30)Merrillville, Ind.219.769.4466

ginossteakhouse.com

THIRD PLACECiao Bella Ristorante

1514 US 41Schererville, Ind.219.322.6800

ciaobellaonline.com

[ best ]HAMBURGER

Schoop’sschoophamburgers.com

Since 1948 when Allen Schoop created his recipe for transforming fresh, made-to-order ground beef into what has been

called the “finest hamburger this side of the moon,” Schoop’s has grown from a modest site in Hammond to reach into communities throughout the region. Schoop’s offers fantastic salads like the grilled chicken or tossed garden salads, juicy burgers, and spectacular sandwiches like the tuna melt or fish sandwich. Plus, their homemade milk shakes, sodas, and floats bring back memories of the good old days.

Rachael Surowiec, manager of Schoop’s in Highland says, “Nobody even comes close to our burgers. We’re one of a kind. Our hamburgers are freshly made to order and they’re large so you get your money’s worth. People love the crispy edges and they’re juicy. All of the toppings are fresh, everything is fresh, including our delicious soups which are homemade every day. We have all ages who come to enjoy our burgers and our entire menu, especially families. We have a comfortable and fun restaurant so we have a lot of loyal customers who come back again and again for our fantastic food and superb customer service.”

SECOND PLACECulver’sculvers.com

THIRD PLACEMiner Dunn8940 Indianapolis BlvdHighland, Ind.219.923.3311

[ best ]HOT DOG

Corky’s Dogg House12421 Wicker Ave (US 41)Cedar Lake, Ind.219.374.9332

“From the great taste to a friendly face, it’s the whole package,” says Chris Bulak about his restaurant, Corky’s Dogg House. Though Chicago style hot dogs are the staple here, other items including Italian beef and chicken wings also receive rave reviews.

“People pretty much order Italian beef and get a Chicago style dog as an appetizer,” Bulak says.

With seating indoors and out and an area of picnic groves, Corky’s offers a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with friendly service.

“My employees are my greatest assets,” Bulak says. “People work with us not for us. That’s always been our philosophy.”

SECOND PLACEGeorge’s Gyro Spot325 N CalumetChesterton, Ind.219.926.5435georgesgyrospot.com

THIRD PLACETop Dog Restaurant701 Washington StMichigan City, Ind.219.874.3647

[ best ]ICE CREAM SHOP

Cold Stone Creamerycoldstonecreamery.com

For almost 20 years, Cold Stone Creamery has been serving up the finest ice cream, cakes, smoothies, and shakes. Their Creations allow customers to choose what they want it in your ice cream, such as nuts, fruits, and candy which are mixed into a smooth and creamy ice cream on a frozen granite stone. For those who can’t decide, they offer Cold Stone Signature Creations with cute names like Birthday Cake Remix, Cookie Monster, Cookie Doughn’t You Want Some, and The Pie Who Loved Me. Selections are available in waffle bowls or cones dipped in chocolate too. There are also cakes which make a great office pick-me-up or birthday treat, or novelties to pick up on your way home. It is no wonder that many call Cold Stone Creamery the “Ultimate ice cream experience.”

Rebecca Johnson, manager of Cold Stone Creamery in Valparaiso, a store which also sells chocolates from the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, says, “Our store looks awesome, we have great customer service, we have fun because we can throw your ice cream in the air, and we have awesome ice cream.”

SECOND PLACECulver’sculvers.com

THIRD PLACESweet Frog1505 US Route 41Schererville, Ind.219.440.7093sweetfrogyogurt.com

Cathy Bulak, center, along with her son Chris Bulak and his wife Silvia Bulak.

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 25

W hen it comes to the best Italian food in the region, Nada and Michael Karas, owners of Lucrezia have set the table on the topic. Michael Karas says, “We’re an independently owned restaurant. There is no corporate

headquarters where things are prepared and shipped out in bulk. Things are truly made from scratch, from fresh ingredients. We don’t have a deep fryer or microwave. It’s cooked to order using olive oil and garlic. Our food is very consistent, so no matter who cooks the chicken vesuvio, it will taste the same.” Nada Karas adds, “We try to shop local from farmers markets. Our menu has been the same core menu for almost 15 years with some tweaks. We change things up with the season, and we offer many specials. There aren’t one or two specials—there are many to choose from. Also, service is critical to any restaurant. Even if the food is exceptional, if the service is bad, you won’t come back, so we really focus on our service and our employees have longevity with us. Chef Alfredo has been the chef in Chesterton since day one, and Chef Patrick in Crown Point has been with us for eight years.”

[ best ]ITALIAN FOOD

Lucrezia428 S Calumet // Chesterton, Ind.

219.926.LUCY

302 S Main St // Crown Point, Ind.219.661.LUCY

lucreziacafe.com

SECOND PLACE

Ciao Bella1514 US 41

219.322.6800Schererville, Ind.

ciaobellaonline.com

THIRD PLACEGiovanni’s

603 Ridge RdMunster, Ind.

219.836.6220giosmunster.com

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Crown Point, IN302 South Main Street | 219.661.5829 (LUCY)

Chesterton, IN428 South Calumet Road | 219.926.5829 (LUCY)

Let our Catering Manager help you plan your graduation party or any other special event.

Let our PRIVATE DINING ROOM be the stage for your next event! Tasteful and relaxing, Lucrezia® Ristorante is the perfect place to host a private event. We’ll ensure that your guests will be wowed by delectable cuisine and drinks. Our private dining space can be configured to give your guests an intimate feel and fun atmosphere no matter what your group.

www.LucreziaCafe.com

Best Italian Restaurant

TheNumber

One

26 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Food & Drink

[ best ]MICRO-

BREWERY

Three Floyds9750 Indiana Pkwy // Munster, Ind.

219.922.4425 // 3floyds.com

In 1996, Three Floyds Brewing Company LLC was founded by brothers

Nick and Simon with their father Mike Floyd in a rundown warehouse on in a rundown warehouse in Hammond,

Indiana. The first beers brewed by the brothers were designed to be a

departure from the fairly bleak craft brewing scene in the region. Nick and Simon brewed intense balanced beers

that were and still remain “not normal” by conventional standards and today

they have grown to be known the world over for their famous “Dark Lord”

as well as many other brews. Three Floyds’ flagship beer, Alpha King is a

big American pale ale that pours a deep amber with a creamy head. This ale is

brewed with Centennial, Cascade, and Warrior hops giving it an intense citrus

aroma and a crisp hoppy finish. Another exceptional brew Gumballhead, an

American wheat brew which was initially a seasonal summer beer, now

brewed year round due to demand. This beer is brewed with Amarillo Hops and

a generous portion of American red wheat to give it a complex hop aroma with notes of grapefruit, lemon zest,

marmalade and peach.

SECOND PLACEFigure Eight Brewing

150 Washington StValparaiso, Ind. // 219.477.2000

figure8brewing.com

THIRD PLACEFounders Brewing

235 Grandville Ave SWGrand Rapids, Mich. // 616.776.2182

foundersbrewing.com

[ best ]PIZZA

Aurelio’saureliospizza.com

SECOND PLACEBeggar’s Pizza

beggarspizza.com

THIRD PLACEGelsosomo’s Crown Point

11319 BroadwayCrown Point, Ind.

219.662.2828gelpizzacrownpoint.com

SECOND PLACEEl Salto3530 Calumet AveValparaiso, Ind.219.462.0100

757 Indian Boundary RdChesterton, Ind.219.395.9890

805 Ridge RdMunster, Ind.219.836.0600elsaltorestaurant.com

THIRD PLACETequila Restaurante110 S Main StCrown Point, Ind.219.661.8226

in business since 1959, Aurelio’s has become a staple of the region—so much so readers have voted it as having the best pizza. At age 26, Joe Aurelio Jr. opened a small, four-table restaurant on Ridge Road in Homewood, Ill. Regular patrons may be surprised to know his restaurant originally focused on the sale of his home-cooked beef sandwiches. Though popular, it was his pizza that captured the taste buds of

locals. There are now more than 40 locations in six states, with menu items ranging from sandwiches to pasta, salads and, of course, pizza.

[ best ]MEXICAN FOOD

El Taco Real935 Hoffman St // Hammond, Ind.

219.932.8333 // eltacorealrestaurant.com

Since April 1974, El Taco Real in Hammond has been bringing fresh food to the region with family recipes from the Garcia family. Raymundo Alcorta Garcia so loved his wife’s cooking that he told her, Esther Anguiano Garcia, that she should open a restaurant, which they did. Since then, the family serves the region their delectable authentic Mexican cuisine, tantalizing new diners to

return, and satisfying thousands of regulars. “We are very proud of what we do here. That’s really the critical issue. We are proud of what we’ve accomplished over the years. We think of our restaurant as our family home. The pride in our product, from the guys watching the dishes, to the ladies cooking the meals, serving the meals, bussing the tables, we won’t send any food out without looking at the presentation three times and making sure every plate is polished,” says Raymundo Garcia, owner.

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 27

[ best ]PLACE FOR BRUNCH

Center for Visual & Performing Arts1040 Ridge Rd // Munster, Ind. // 219.836.1930 // cvpa.org

Every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the Center for Visual & Performing Arts’ brunch is a feast for the family. There are plenty of breakfast items, including bacon and eggs, sausage, blintzes, Belgian waffles with warm maple syrup, and cinnamon toast. Luncheon items include carved roast and ham, chicken and dressing, pasta, vegetables, potatoes, and other scrumptious entrees. The dessert table boasts a variety of items. Christine Carbonare, event coordinator, says, “We have a brunch every Sunday and we do not want to cancel it on occasion because it disrupts people’s schedules so we make sure it is offered with consistency. Joe Trama is our executive chef and he trained the kitchen staff. He took over about four years ago and he has created a unique feel with creative items. He teaches at Ivy Tech and he likes to keep up with the trends. We have Hugo Perea as our sous chef and he does the bakery items and everything is homemade. I think that makes a big difference. It’s a great family setting here with floor to ceiling windows so it is nice and bright on a sunny day. It’s just a nice environment here and a perfect occasion for everything from a confirmation to an 85th birthday party.”

SECOND PLACEStrongbow Inn2405 E US 30Valparaiso, Ind.219.531.0162strongbowinn.com

THIRD PLACECiao Bella1514 US 41219.322.6800Schererville, Ind.ciaobellaonline.com

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Monday-Thursday: 11am - 10pmFriday-Saturday: 11am-11pm | Sunday: 11am-10pm

www.ciaobellaonline.com

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

Extensive Wine List • Express Lunch Specials Weekly Dining & Drink Specials

Let our Event Specialist help plan the perfect menu for your Graduation Party.

On-site catering available or book your party in our new private party room. Accommodates up to 100. Call for more details.

Thank you For voTing uS one oF

On-site catering available or book your party in our new private party room. Accommodates up to 100.

Scan for our Complete Menu

for Italian Food • Fine Dining • Place for Brunch

219.932.8333eltacorealrestaurant.com

935 Hoffman Street • Hammond

Thank you for voTing us #1 Mexican resTuaranT

[ best ]PLACE FOR

BREAKFAST

Round the Clock roundtheclock.com

SECOND PLACEJelly Pancake House399 E 81st AveMerrillville, Ind.219.736.0100

936 US Route 30Dyer, Ind.219.865.3200jellypancakehouse.com

THIRD PLACEThe Scrambled Diner250 81st AveDyer, Ind.219.865.3950scrambleddiner.com

It’s no wonder that Round the Clock is the region’s best place for breakfast. They have a huge menu of selections that are delicious for everyone in the family. Selections are served with hashbrowns or skillet potatoes, toast, and they are filling, so it’s a satisfying way to get started. All food is made fresh and for those who can’t decide, the combos allow diners

to enjoy a little variety so they can give their taste buds just what they’re asking for. Minos Litos, owner, says that the key is their ingredients. “Our executive chefs are very involved in picking favorite dishes for our customers to include on the menu. All of our ingredients are fresh and you can taste that. We make everything fresh every day. We make our omelets fresh to order, our pancake batter is made from scratch, and it may be more labor intensive, but we know when it comes to our customers, it’s worth it,” says Litos.

Food & Drink

Manny Tirado, who manages the Schererville Round the Clock Family

Restaurant, says customers love the service they receive at the restaurant. He says it is efficient and quick. Tirado says the quality of food at Round the Clock is excellent. “We have specials from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. every day,” Tirado said. “Breakfast and lunch are served 24/7.” The lunch crowd at Round the Clock is largely made up of workers from nearby businesses, he says, with the turkey club being the most popular menu choice at lunch. Round the Clock Family Restaurants first opened in 1963. The family-owned restaurants focus on people both customers and workers. Meals are made from scratch, fresh rolls are served, soups are homemade and desserts freshly baked.

[ best ]PLACE FOR CHICKEN WINGS

Hooters hooters.comLocations in Merrillville and Schererville, Ind. and Lansing, Ill.

Nothing beats a slew of saucy chicken wings, and Hooters is known for their take on the tasty dish. Kelly Hubbard Propst, public relations for Hooters, says, “Hooters is consistently recognized as the best wing joint and is known around the world for its famous wings. Whether you prefer boneless or traditional wings, Hooters delivers a variety of crave-able sauces to complement them—from buffalo sauce favorites, ranging in heat from mild to 911, to new signature sauces on select Hooters menus, such as teriyaki-style samurai, lemon pepper and chipotle honey. Unique to Hooters are our Daytona style wings. They’re covered in a sweet and spicy sauce and finished on the grill. They were once a cult favorite but are now officially on the menu. Even after 30 years, Hooters remains the ultimate destination to satisfy your chicken wing craving.”

SECOND PLACEWings Etc.wingsetc.com

THIRD PLACESmashmouth Burgers & Pizza764 E US Hwy 30Schererville, Ind.219.322.3838eatatsmashmouth.com

28 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

[ best ]PLACE

FOR LUNCH

Round the Clock roundtheclock.com

SECOND PLACEPopolano’s

17940 Torrence AveLansing, Ill.

708.474.0425

225 S Calumet RdChesterton, Ind.219.926.5552

popolanosrestaurant.com

THIRD PLACEThe Patio

Restaurant7706 BroadwayMerrillville, Ind.219.769.7990the-patio.com

Schererville Round the Clock employee, Jan Watson, gladly serves another customer.

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 29

[ best ]POLISH FOOD

Warsaw Inn2180 Glenwood Dyer Rd // Lynwood, Ill.708.474.1000 // angieswarsawinn.com

Generations of families have been coming to Warsaw Inn in Lynwood, Ill., to experience the best

Polish food in the region, said Angie Golom, the restaurant’s owner.

The buffet, which opened its Lynwood location in 1980, offers more than 60 items daily, focusing on ethnic and American food.

The restaurant makes everything from scratch, with many recipes coming directly from Golom’s family in Poland.

There are carving stations for roast beef and ham, as well as salad and dessert tables. Polish favorites include stuffed cabbage, polish sausage, sauerkraut, potato pancakes and five kinds of pierogi.

“When people that move out of the area come back, we are the restaurant they want to come back to,” she says. “We make things the old-fashioned way, from scratch.”

SECOND PLACECavalier Inn735 Gostlin StHammond, Ind.219.933.9314cavalierinn.net

THIRD PLACEMJ’s Deli7112 Calumet AveHammond, Ind.219.937.6007mjpolishdeli.com

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Thank You For Voting

SmashMouth as

One of The Best in

the Region!

www.eatatsmash.com • In Cline Commons 764 East US Highway 30 • Schererville, IN

(219) 322-3838

$500OFF

ANy PUrCHASE of $25 Or MOre

MENtIoN tHIS Ad ANd rECEIvE

Thank You For Voting

SmashMouth as

One of The Best in

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Thank You For Voting

SmashMouth as

One of The Best in

BUrgErS - WINgS - SAlAd - BEEr - WINE - dESSErtS

30 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Bridges’ Scoreboard serves great food and a hearty portion of sports action. Owners Jeff and Scott Bridges work hard to stay in touch with customers at the family-owned restaurant and sports bar. “You come in here. You’re

not just a number,” Jeff Bridges says. “We treat people like you want to be treated.” The game of the moment can always be heard on surround sound and watched on big screen HDTVs. Celebrities from the sporting world also stop by Bridges for meet and greets. “We like to do things like that to keep people interested and coming by,” Bridges says.

Food & DrinkOver the years, no sandwich restaurant has had as much lasting and prolific popularity as the Subway brand of sandwiches. Their fully customizable sub format allows customers to create a sandwich that fits their unique tastes, with fresh ingredients and healthy menu options. “Subway Sandwiches is proud to be awarded by the Times readers as the Best Place for a Sandwich,” Dan Leigler

says. Leigler is a Subway franchise owner who is opening a new branch of the restaurant in St. John in May. “Quality, value and customer service is something that is reinforces throughout the organization,” Leigler says. “Our goal is to provide fresh products that promote a healthy lifestyle at a competitive price prepared by enthusiastic employees.”

[ best ]SEAFOOD

SECOND PLACEButterfingers

2552 45th AveHighland, Ind.219.924.6464

921D Ridge RdMunster, Ind.

219.836.4202butterfingersbakery.com

THIRD PLACEQuizno’s

9270 Wicker Ave (US 41)St. John, Ind.219.365.3170

2620 LaPorte AveValparaiso, Ind.219.548.2900quiznos.com

[ best ]SPORTS BAR & GRILLBridges’ Scoreboard121 N Griffith Blvd // Griffith, Ind. // 219.924.2206 // bridgesscoreboard.com

SECOND PLACEWhite Rhino Bar & Grill101 Joliet St (US 30)Dyer, Ind.219.864.9200whiterhinoonline.com

THIRD PLACEHootershooters.com

The Patio Restaurant7706 Broadway // Merrillville, Ind. 219.769.7990 // the-patio.com

The two most popular seafood selections at the Patio Restaurant are the perch and Dutch shrimp. The Patio, which has

been in business for about 30 years, features a Friday night seafood/prime rib buffet from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Debra Batistatos, who co-owns the restaurant with her husband Nick, said the Patio also serves grouper, Chilean bass, salmon served over spinach, mahi mahi, stuffed orange roughy and jumbo shrimp with a panko bread crust. “Our Dutch shrimp is out of this world,” Batistatos says. “We also get a lot of compliments on our perch.”

[ best ]PLACE FOR

A SANDWICH

Subway subway.com

SECOND PLACEBlue Chip Casino

777 Blue Chip DrMichigan City, Ind.

219.879.7711888.879.7711

bluechipcasino.com

THIRD PLACE (TIE)Teibel’s Family

Restaurant1775 US 41

Schererville, Ind.219.865.2000

teibels.com

THIRD PLACE (TIE)Town Club2904 45th AveHighland, Ind.219.924.5527

townclubon45th.com

Zachary Krenkel, of Momence, gets a puck signed by former Chicago Blackhawk Ed Olczyk at Bridges’ Scoreboard.

The Lighthouse Restaurant features two floors for a combined total of 11,600

square feet. The first floor is a full-service restaurant with seating for up to 250 and bar; the second floor is a private

dining facility for weddings, showers, birthdays, and corporate events, equipped

with a wood dance floor surrounded by windows. The design of the two floors

gives guests on each floor the ultimate in privacy with exceptionally sound-proofed

construction. But the appeal of The Lighthouse is more than just the beautiful

environment and facility; it is also all about the steaks. “We cook our steaks differently than other steakhouses. We sear our steaks

at a high temperature so the steaks keep their juices inside and we serve them on

500 degree plates so they stay warm. We use quality filets, sirloins, a prime beef of

some sort like a porterhouse,” says Megan Riordan, general manager.

[ best ]STEAKHOUSE

The Lighthouse7501 Constitution Ave // Cedar Lake, Ind.219.374.WAVE // cedarlakelighthouse.com

SECOND PLACEKelsey’s Steak & Seafood2300 US 30Valparaiso, Ind.219.465.4022

5630 US 6Portage, Ind.219.762.2242kelseyssteakhouse.com

THIRD PLACEGino’s Steakhouse1259 Joliet St (US 30)Dyer, Ind.219.865.3854

600 E 81st Ave (US 30)Merrillville, Ind.219.769.4466ginossteakhouse.com

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Spirits run high at Round Barn Winery as

it turns 21 this year, having grown from a winery to a distillery and brewery—“a triple threat” in an expanding market, says General Manager Nicole Birmingham-Moersch. “We use produce from

area orchards, vineyards and farms in the production of more than fifty wines in whites, reds, sparkling and dessert.” Round Barn is also turning out brandies, vodka, rum, bourbon and hand-crafted micro-brews. This season promises to be fun-packed, with one of the biggest free concert series in the area—23 weeks of live entertainment 3 to 6 p.m. every Saturday and 2 to 5 p.m. every Sunday. World-class wines, spirits and micro-brews and food will be available while musicians rock the open-air stage.

SECOND PLACETabor Hill Winery &

Restaurant185 Mount Tabor Rd

Buchanan, Mich.1.800.283.3363

taborhill.com

THIRD PLACESt. Julian

Winery716 S Kalamazoo St

Paw Paw, Mich.269.657.5568

stjulian.com

[ best ]WINERY

Round Barn Winery

Union Pier Tasting Room9185 Union Pier Rd

Union Pier, Mich.269.469.6885

roundbarnwinery.com

[ best ]CHIROPRACTOR

HealthSource11065 BroadwayCrown Point, Ind.

219.663.3003healthsourcechiro.com

ith one visit to HealthSource,

customers will see what sets the facility apart.

HealthSource’s goal is to educate

each patient towards optimal

health through Chiropractic and wellness. They accomplish this by using leading-edge manual medicine techniques to quickly identify and treat the true cause of the patient’s issues. Patients receive efficient service without chasing down symptoms and temporarily “Band-aiding.” Nutritional and exercise programs, lifestyle coaching and regular wellness classes are just a few of the unique services that make HealthSource the place of choice for many in the community.

SECOND PLACEKostidis

Chiropractic4004 N Campbell St

Valparaiso, Ind.219.465.1140

kostidischiropractic.com

THIRD PLACETrimboli

Chiropractic706 Ridge RdMunster, Ind.

219.836.8890

12732 US 41Cedar Lake, Ind.219.374.4144

trimbolichiro.com

SECOND PLACEHeart Institute at

Franciscan St. Anthony Health — Crown Point1201 S Main St // Crown Point, Ind.

219.757.6142stanthonymedicalcenter.com

THIRD PLACENorthwest Indiana

Cardiovascular Physicians

2000 Roosevelt RdValparaiso, Ind.

219.531.9419 // nwicp.com

TIED FOR FIRSTCardiology Associates of Northwest Indiana

5500 Hohman Ave // Hammond, Ind.219.931.8708

10010 Don Powers Dr // Munster, Ind.219.934.4200

cardiologyassociatesofnw.intuitwebsites.com

Since 1987 Cardiology Associates of Northwest Indiana has been proving

its reputation as a premier cardiology diagnosis and treatment group in

northwest Indiana for diagnosis and treatment of cardiac diseases. Seven

cardiologists practice at different locations, with a corporate office in

Munster. Patients receive care across a wide spectrum of cardiology diagnostic

and treatment services, such as echocardiograms, stress tests, Holter

monitoring, and more. Cardiology Associates specializes in treatment of

coronary artery disease and peripheral artery disease, with procedures that

include angioplasty and atherectomy, explains Dr. Ravi Bhagwat. A state-of-

the-art vein clinic treats such conditions as varicose veins. “We treat our patients

as if they were someone in our own family,” says Bhagwat.

[ best ]CARDIOLOGY CARE

TIED FOR FIRSTCommunity Cardiology Center801 MacArthur Blvd, Suite 201Munster, Ind.219.513.0422comhs.org

The Community Cardiology Center in Munster offers patients 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 and explains every aspect of patients’ procedures and answers any questions patients 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.”

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A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 33

“Trimboli Chiropractic is awesome!! You receive the best care. From the doctors to the staff,

it is an amazing place to go to get relief from back and neck pain.”

– I.R.B., patient

Chiropractic uses the power of your body’s healing potential.

Chiropractic improves sleep patterns, strengthens the immune system, and levels moods. You will be more flexible and agile in your daily life.

Children perform better at school and in sports with better focus and better coordination.

When you suffer from pain it robs you of your quality of life. At Trimboli Chiropractic our goal is to follow a treatment plan that will return

you to a pain-free life as gently, effectively, and as quickly as possible.

706 Ridge Road, Munster(219) 836-8890

12732 Route 41, Cedar Lake, IN(219) 374-4144

See our website for complete information www.trimbolichiro.net

find us on facebook

Mention this ad for your first visit FREE!

PPO with Anthem, BCBS IL, United, CignaAnd affordable cash options - we love our cash patients!

34 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Health Care[ best ]DENTIST

Advanced Dental 15285 W 101st Ave // Dyer, Ind. // 219.365.5420 // drgambetta.com

SECOND PLACESchererville Family Dentistry1050 Caroline AveSchererville, Ind.219.322.3232nwidentist.com

THIRD PLACENorthwest Oral Surgeons601A US 30Schererville, Ind.219.322.0501

548 Ridge Rd, Suite GMunster, Ind.219.836.0004northwestoralsurgeons.com

Granted, no one particularly loves going to the dentist. Yet, it’s a known fact that good dental care is vital to an overall healthy being. Voted number one in the Best Dentist category, Advanced Dental in Dyer is known throughout the community for their unsurpassed service and care. “It’s really

about making people as comfortable as we can via every single interaction,” explains Dr. Miguel Gambetta from Advanced Dental. “From the moment they call for an appointment to when they are sitting in our waiting room to when they are in the chair, we are always striving to make sure their visit is a positive experience.”

ADVANCED DENTAL15285 101st Ave, ste H • Dyer, In

866-992-2973

tHAnks to our wonDerful pAtIents

for votIng us

Come see for yourself! now accepting new patients.

Miguel Gambetta, DDS~ In-network for most area PPO’s ~

BESTDENTIST

Our friendly, professional team is

ready to serve you and your family

Robert Pieters, D.D.S. & Ray Alavanja, D.D.S. Call 219-322-3232 or E-mail for your next appointment today!

sfamdent@gmail.com • nwidentist.com1050 Caroline Ave., Schererville, IN Open early & late for Your Convenience

Mon. - Thurs. 7am-9pm • Friday 8am-5pm

Dr. Alavanja, Dr. Pieters and the entire Schererville Family Dentistry staff wish to

Thank You for voting us

Best Dentist/Dental Center & Best Customer Service 4 Years in a Row!

We are honored by this award and welcome new patients to come experience the trust

others have placed in our team.

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 35

[ best ]HEALTH &

FITNESS CLUB

Community Hospital Fitness Pointe®

9950 Calumet AveMunster, Ind.

219.924.5348comhs.org

SECOND PLACEFranciscan Omni Health & Fitness221 US 41, Suite ASchererville, Ind.219.865.6969

810 Michael DrChesterton, Ind.219.983.9832franciscanalliance.org/omni

THIRD PLACEValparaiso Family YMCA1201 Cumberland Crossing DrValparaiso, Ind.219.462.4185valpoymca.org

Taking care of one’s whole being is important to readers, so it’s not surprising that they voted Community Hospital Fitness Pointe® as the Best Health & Fitness Club in this year’s poll. A medically based, 73,000 square-foot fitness center, Fitness Pointe® helps individuals achieve life-long health and fitness through innovative, quality programs, state-of-the-art equipment and highly credentialed staff. “Fitness Pointe® expands on the efforts of Community Hospital to improve the quality of life through disease prevention and health promotion,” explains Debi Pillarella, MEd, CPT, education/fitness program manager of Community Hospital Fitness Pointe®. “Degreed and/or certified fitness professionals help clients begin, maintain, and progress with their health and fitness programs.”

Where Technology

andCare areState-Of-The-Heart

www.comhs.org

We offer quality Cardiovascular Diagnostics and Interventions right in your community. Our equipment and methods are state-of-the-art, as are your physicians, nurses, and technologists. To find a cardiologist, contact our physician referral at 219-836-3477 or 1-866-836-3477.

Featuring a Free Fitness Program with every Membership, Community Hospital Fitness Pointe® supports your needs from illness to wellness. We have what you're looking for, including Full Service Memberships, Personal Training, Land and Water Classes, Wellness, Physical Therapy, Cardiac Rehabilitation and a full service Hair Studio and Spa. With customer service second to none, stop in and see why we are the “Best in the Region”.

9950 Calumet Avenue | Munster, IN 46321219-924-5348 | www.FitnessPointe.com

Best in the RegionThank you for making Fitness Pointe

Health Care

[ best ]HOSPITALCommunity Hospital901 MacArthur Blvd // Munster, Ind. // 219.836.1600 // comhs.org

Community Hospital is distinguished nationally for its high-quality care, named among America’s 50 Best by Healthgrades®, the nation’s leading, independent ratings organization. The Munster hospital is the only hospital in Indiana to achieve this distinction six years in a row. Community Hospital has demonstrated consistently superior performance in clinical outcomes across 27 common medical conditions from diagnoses such as heart attack and pneumonia to procedures such as hip fracture and knee replacement. “This extraordinary achievement demonstrates that we are focused on the things that matter most to our patients, including clinical excellence and a total caring environment,” says Don Fesko, chief executive officer. “This commitment is renewed with every patient, to deliver the right care to the right patient at the right time.”

SECOND PLACEFranciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point1201 South Main StCrown Point, Ind.219.738.2100stanthonymedicalcenter.com

THIRD PLACEPorter Regional Hospital85 E US 6Valparaiso, Ind.219.983.8300porterhealth.com

[ best ]ORTHOPEDIC PRACTICE

Lakeshore Bone & Joint601 Gateway Blvd // Chesterton, Ind.

219.921.1444 // lbji.com

The Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute was founded by doctors from the Gary region more than 50 years ago. Today, most of the current partners are from Northwest Indiana and Chicago and Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute employs more than 100 healthcare and support staff who has expertise in everything from carpal tunnel syndrome to hip replacement. Karen Johnson, director of marketing and workers’ compensation says, “We have a solid reputation because of our experience, and our

service. When someone calls in they can expect to reach a live person. It’s frustrating when you call to always get voicemail and here you can get a live person. But our reputation also has been founded upon our superior specialists who have been trained very well. You can get the same treatment here as you would in Chicago or Indianapolis. We have more of a personal approach and you have access to our doctors.”

SECOND PLACEFranciscan Medical Specialists757 45th AveMunster, Ind.219.934.2450medspecindiana.com

THIRD PLACEOrthopaedic Specialists of Northwest Indiana730 W 45th StMunster, Ind.219.924.3300osni.org

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 37

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Porter Regional Hospital is directly or indirectly owned by a partnership that proudly includes physician owners, including certain members of the hospital’s medical staff.

We’ve always known that Porter Regional Hospital was a special place. But

we are truly honored to be recognized as one of the Best Hospitals in the Times’

2013 Best of the Region. Thanks for voting for us!

To find a physician who practices at Porter Regional Hospital, call 1-800-541-1861.

THANKS. FOR vOTiNg uS ONe OF THe beST.

69081_PORTE_Times_9_89x10c.indd 1 4/19/13 10:20 AM

38 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Health Care

Physicians at Community Spine and Neurosurgery Institute use their vast experience in neurosurgery to diagnose disorders of the nervous system affecting the whole body—the

spine, brain, hands, legs, arms and face. Board-certified neurosurgeons Marc Levin, MD, Wayel Kaakaji, MD and Mohammad S. Shukairy, MD offer the most advanced surgical treatments along with a variety of non-surgical approaches to restore patients’ health and relieve their pain. These physicians have many years of experience performing complex surgeries of the brain and spine. They also perform minimally invasive surgeries of the spine, offering their patients shorter recovery times and better pain control.

SECOND PLACEMidwest Interventional Spine SpecialistsLocations in Munster, Chesterton, Schererville and Merrillville, Ind.219.836.7246 // 877.934.7246spinecaremw.com

THIRD PLACEMethodist HospitalNorthlake Campus600 Grant St // Gary, Ind. 219.886.4000 Midlake Campus2269 W 25th Ave // Gary, Ind.219.944.4160 Southlake Campus8701 Broadway // Merrillville, Ind. 219.738.5500methodisthospitals.org

[ best ]PAIN MANAGEMENT

Community Spine & Neurosurgery

Institute801 MacArthur Blvd,

Suite 405Munster, Ind.

219.836.5167

1600 S Lake Park Ave, Suite 1102

Hobart, Ind.219.942.6510

communityspineandbrain.com Neurosurgeons with Community Spine & Neurosurgery Institute [from left] Mohammad Shukairy, MD, Wayel Kaakaji, MD and Marc Levin, MD.

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Thank You for VoTing us

Best Of tHeReGION

3 Years in a row

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

Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists

w w w . s p i n e c a r e m w . c o m

First in proven pAin SolUtionS • First in pAtient CAreTrainingM.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.

ExpEriEncEMore 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 MindM.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 innot only spine pain but all types of chronic pain, e.g., arthritis pain, sciatica, whiplash and work injuries.

shaun kondamuri MD satish Dasari MD Vijay gupta MD saveen kondamuri MD

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 39

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State of the Art

in Spine CareOffering 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

three years in a row!three years in a row!three years in a row!Best in Spine Care

730 45th St., Munster, IN 46321 · (219) 924-3300www.spinecarespecialists.com

40 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Health Care

[ best ]PEDIATRIC CARE

Community Hospital901 MacArthur Blvd // Munster, Ind.

219.836.1600 // comhs.org

Community Hospital delivers about 2,400 babies per year and its Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is the only Northwest Indiana hospital with neonatologists in-house 24 hours a day. A team of nurses and respiratory, occupational, physical and speech therapists provides intervention for infants with special medical needs. Through a new partnership, critically-ill babies in the NICU receive care from University of Chicago Medicine neonatologists, which also makes it faster to transport babies in need of additional specialty care. Michelle Cherry, nurse manager for Community’s NICU, says, “The nursing staff is very experienced and many have been here since the unit opened 30 years ago. This experience can make all the difference in noticing a baby’s condition change and acting quickly.”

[ best ]PHYSICAL THERAPY

HealthSource11065 BroadwayCrown Point, Ind.

219.663.3003healthsourcechiro.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 drives the tailored rehabilitation plan designed for each individual patient, not

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.”

SECOND PLACEATI Physical

Therapyatipt.com

THIRD PLACEFitness Pointe

9950 Calumet AveMunster, Ind.

219.924.5348comhs.org

SECOND PLACEFranciscan

Medical Specialists

Main office—Munster. Locations throughout

Northwest Indiana219.934.2492

medspecindiana.com/healthcare-specialty/

indiana-pediatrics

THIRD PLACEKids First Pediatrics

1160 Joliet St (US 30), Suite 103Dyer, Ind.

219.322.8534dtmd4kids.com

[ best ]PODIATRIST

Friendly Foot Care50 West 94th Pl // Crown Point, Ind.219.663.2273 // friendlyfootcare.com

W hen foot and ankle problems develop, Friendly Food Care gets you back in step as quickly as possible. Dr. Michael Nirenberg and Dr. Michael Lacey are trained in all aspects of foot and

ankle care and surgery, including “no-needle” diagnostic tests, laser surgery, and a revolutionary, platelet-rich treatment.

It’s all done in a relaxed atmosphere; the lobby is comfortable and welcoming, and treatment rooms have specially designed chairs with soothing, heated-massage foot rests. And anyone having an out-patient procedure is personally called by their podiatrist within 24 hours of returning home.

“We give people the warmest, friendliest, most thorough care —quite simply, the best foot care possible,” says Dr. Michael Nirenberg.

SECOND PLACEFranciscan Hammond Clinic Specialty Center7905 Calumet AveMunster, Ind.219.836.5800hammondclinic.com

THIRD PLACECommunity Health Care SystemDr. Michael Dichoso Orthopaedic Institute9132 Columbia AveMunster, Ind.219.836.2225comhs.org

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 41

Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute (LBJI), devoted to providing the most

comprehensive care possible, has been a leading provider of sub-specialty spinal care in the region for more than a decade. “We are currently in the development of outpatient lumbar and cervical fusion procedures,” says Dr. Nick Nenadovish. “When it comes

to spine care, we believe less is more. With two fellowship trained orthopedic spine surgeons on staff we provide the most cutting-edge procedures available including minimally invasive surgery and artificial disc replacements.” LBJI provides university-level medical care for neck and back which is less invasive, requires a shorter stay at the hospital, and requires less travel and less expense.

SECOND PLACECommunity Spine & Neurosurgery

Institute801 MacArthur Blvd,

Suite 405Munster, Ind.219.836.5167

communityspineandbrain.com

THIRD PLACESpine Care Specialists

Orthopaedic Specialists of Northwest Indiana

730 W 45th StMunster, Ind.

219.924.3300spinecarespecialists.com

Dr. Nick Nenadovich and Dr. Anton Thompkins of Lakeshore Bone and Joint.

[ best ]SPINE CARE

Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute

601 Gateway BlvdChesterton, Ind.

219.921.1444lbji.com

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World-class, ComprehensiveNeurosurgical and Spine Services

Heart of Northwest Indiana.right here in the

801 MacArthur Blvd, Suite 405, Munster

219-836-51671600 S. Lake Park Ave., Suite 1102, Hobart

219-942-6510

MarC LevIN, M.D., NeuroSurgeoNMarC LevIN, M.D., NeuroSurgeoNWayeL KaaKajI, M.D., NeuroSurgeoNWayeL KaaKajI, M.D., NeuroSurgeoN

MoHaMMaD S. SHuKaIry, M.D., NeuroSurgeoN

www.friendlyfootcare.com

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Drs. NireNberg aND Laceyof 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 state-of-the-art laser surgery, and use tiny-incision arthroscopic surgery for ankle and heel pain.

Drs. NireNberg aND Laceyuse the latest techniques to solvethe toughest foot and ankle problems.

Visit FrieNDLy Foot care50 W. 94th Place Crown Point, IN

call (219) 663-2273

WaLk Happy!

NW INDIANA’S HEEL, FOOT & ANkLE

PAIN ExPErTSdr. michael nirenberg

& dr. michael lacey

Four yearS in a roW!

BESTPODIATR

ISTThank You For Voting

FRIENDLY FOOT CARE

42 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Health Care

Getting sick is never convenient, but thankfully there is a simple solution when the doctor’s

office has closed for the evening or weekend. The solution? Medical attention for illnesses that are not life-threatening is available through Immediate

Care at the Community Hospital Outpatient Centre in St. John. The Outpatient Centre’s Immediate Care Service sees patients on a walk-in basis—no appointments are necessary. And providing evening and weekend hours means busy people can get care quickly: Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to midnight, and Sunday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about services provided through the Community Hospital Outpatient Centre in St. John, call 219.365.1177.

SECOND PLACEFranciscan St. Anthony Health – Crown Point1201 S Main StCrown Point, Ind.219.738.2100stanthonymedicalcenter.com

THIRD PLACEFranciscan St. Margaret Health - Hammond5454 Hohman AveHammond, Ind.219.932.2300

Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Dyer24 Joliet St (US 30)Dyer, Ind.219.865.2141franciscanstmargaret.org

Rated as the Best Women’s Health Center in this year’s poll, Community Hospital’s Women’s Diagnostic Center

has long been known as a leader when it comes to women’s health care. In fact, they are the first hospital in the state of Indiana to offer advanced Positron Emission Mammography (PEM). “We are excited to introduce this revolutionary technology to better care for our patients,” says Mary Nicholson, M.D., fellowship-trained, dedicated breast radiologist at Community Hospital and regional director of breast imaging services for Community Healthcare System. “Identifying new or recurrent breast cancer at the earliest stage possible gives each patient the best chance of a superior outcome.”

[ best ]WOMEN’S HEALTH CENTER

Community Hospital’s Women’s Diagnostic Center10020 Donald S Powers Dr // Munster, Ind.

219.934.8869 // comhs.org

[ best ]URGENT CARE

SECOND PLACEFranciscan

ExpressCare12800 Mississippi Pkwy

Crown Point, Ind.219.662.5700

1225 E Coolspring AveMichigan City, Ind.

219.873.2919

2307 LaPorte AveValparaiso, Ind.219.476.8855

smmhc.com

THIRD PLACEFranciscan Hammond

Clinic7905 Calumet Ave

Munster, Ind.219.836.5800

hammondclinic.com

Community Hospital

Outpatient Centre

9660 Wicker Ave (US 41)St. John, Ind.219.365.1177

comhs.org

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 43

365 Days a YearLocated in Munster219-836-5800

Specialty Center7905 Calumet AvenueMunster, INMunster, IN

Providing comprehensive

❏ Diabetic Foot Care

❏ Foot, Ankle and Lower Leg

Disorders/Care

❏ General Podiatry

URGENTCARE Quality care, when you need it.

DEPARTMENT OF PODIATRYDEPARTMENT OF PODIATRY

219.836.5800 FranciscanHammondClinic.org

With public art like Cloud Gate (the Bean) and the Crown Fountain’s faces in Millennium Park, the boats and opening bridges that cross the Chicago River, the shops and restaurants that line the Magnificent Mile from Chanel to Old Navy, it’s no wonder that Chicago has been voted the Best Downtown by Times’ readers. Taking a stroll to Oak Street Beach or catching the symphony at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in the summer time or ice skating at the McCormick Tribune Plaza in Millennium Park in the winter time, Chicago’s downtown is always a hotbed of activity. Chicago’s downtown is perfectly located and structured for a walk, a trolley ride, or even zooming from one end to the other in a cab or bus. Meghan Risch, vice president of communications for Choose Chicago, the city’s tourism arm, says, “Chicago’s downtown is flanked by awe-inspiring architecture dating back as far as the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition to the more recent Aqua building designed by one of the world’s most celebrated female architects, Jeanne Gang. The very best in dining, theater, culture, shopping, retail and hotels is primarily located within this central business district, and all accessible by foot.”

SECOND PLACELansingvillageoflansing.com

THIRD PLACEBeechervillageofbeecher.org

[ best ]DOWNTOWN

ILLINOIS

Chicagocityofchicago.org

Liv

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[ best ]DOWNTOWN MICHIGAN

New Buffaloharborcountry.org

SECOND PLACESaugatuck/Douglas

saugatuck.com

THIRD PLACEGrand Rapids

grandrapids.org

New Buffalo, Michigan, one of eight towns that comprise the Harbor Country® region, offers a tantalizing foretaste of the other seven communities. “People come to New Buffalo for the beach and all the great restaurants and shops,” says Kim Pruitt, membership and marketing coordinator the Harbor Country Chamber of Commerce. Restaurants’ cuisine ranges from hot dogs

to fine dining, and the iconic Redamaks’ burgers and sides. All along Whittaker Street are intriguing little shops and boutiques, with everything from candles to candies to exotic imports and whimsical tchotchkes. A short walk from Whittaker Street is Lake Michigan, with a marina and clean beach.

[ best ]DOWNTOWN NW INDIANA

Crown Point crownpoint.in.gov

The heart of Crown Point is situated around the old Lake County Court House. This “Grand Old Lady” is the center of the city, and the square is both an historic downtown as well as a thriving commercial center. Crown Point’s downtown offers a wealth of restaurants, specialized gift shops, and services that can be found nowhere else. There are also a number of historical buildings near the court house, including the Allman Block Building built in 1891, the Masonic Temple built in 1919, the People’s Bank building built in 1910, and Cheshire Hall built in 1873, to name a few. Mayor David

Uran says it is this downtown that brings visitors from far and wide. “Being voted the best downtown for the past five years in a row starts with our beautiful court house. This attracts people to see and enjoy its long history. The city complements that resource with year-round family-oriented festivals and parades. Our ‘Shop Local’ campaign has helped maintain and provide new energy to our merchants who provide a unique shopping experience. I truly believe ‘Building a Stronger Community from Within’ supports our progress.”

SECOND PLACEValparaisoci.valparaiso.in.us

THIRD PLACEHighlandhighland.in.gov

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 45

[ best ]PLACE TO LIVE ILLINOIS

Chicagocityofchicago.org

The lists of the nation’s most expensive places to live don’t include Chicago, because Chicago is able to offer everything world-class cities from all over the world offer, but at an affordable price. Living in Chicago is not only affordable, but it is a quality of life unlike any other, with cultural offerings in abundance, ease of transportation, parks and recreation, excellent job opportunities, and some of the best shopping and dining on the globe.

Meghan Risch, vice president of Choose Chicago, says that there are a number of reasons why Chicago is an ideal place to call home. “We have the best downtown, the best meeting space in America, the tallest building in America, the best restaurants in America, the best theatre and sporting events in America—the list goes on. People come from all over the world to visit the city, why not live here? Not only is Chicago racking up world-class accolades, but you just won’t find a friendlier, more liveable big city. It’s this truly unique mix of global attractions and local charm that make Chicago second to none.”

SECOND PLACEBeechervillageofbeecher.org

THIRD PLACECretevillageofcrete.org

[ best ]PLACE TO LIVE NW INDIANA

Crown Point crownpoint.in.gov

Crown Point, the seat of Lake County, is home to some 27,317 according to the 2010 census. Incorporated in 1868, Crown Point has been attracting more and more people to call the city home, with stellar schools, a charming downtown, affordable living options, low crime, cultural opportunities, and family events all year long. Plus, Crown Point is near to many amenities that make for a superb quality of life, such as the proximity to Chicago, Lake Michigan and the beaches, and access to transportation including highways and rail. Crown Point is also host each summer to the oldest county fair in the state of Indiana, the Lake County Fair, and it is also the second biggest county fair in the state.

Mayor David Uran says, “Crown Point is the best place to live because our community works together to protect and complement its values. We are a bedroom community that prides itself on quality education, a professional workforce, top-notch amenities and recreational parks, and improving public infrastructure. This is all being accomplished while boosting the lowest city municipal tax rate in Northwest Indiana.”

[ best ]PLACE TO LIVE

MICHIGAN

New Buffalo newbuffalo.org

Residents of New Buffalo, Mich, love its location. Just off I-94, its access

to Chicago is convenient, yet it’s still a peaceful haven in the beautiful

environment of the Lake Michigan shoreline. Individuals seeking a serene setting for cultural pursuits find this a nurturing place for artists. Families play in the parks and enjoy all sorts of water sports at the clean, well-tended beach. The downtown area is made for browsing, with a delightful diversity of shops and restaurants. Residents

treasure the strong sense of community here, supporting an excellent school system, fine arts, and festivals. Rose

Strother, executive director of the New Buffalo Business Association, responds

to compliments about the town with a big smile and says, “We couldn’t agree more!”

SECOND PLACE

Saugatuck/Douglas

saugatuck.com

THIRD PLACEGrand Rapids

grandrapids.org

SECOND PLACEValparaisoci.valparaiso.in.us

THIRD PLACEMunsterci.munster.in.us

Bill and Barbara Johnson kiss before renewing their vows on the steps of the Old Lake County Courthouse as part of the Marriage Mill celebration in 2012.

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46 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Living[ best ]

PLACE TO VOLUNTEER

Boys & Girls Clubs of Northwest Indiana

bgcnwi.org

Boys & Girls Clubs of Northwest Indiana is an after-school and summer youth development organization providing positive, educational, leadership and character-building programs for

youth ages 6 to 18. Club membership is only $10 per child per year. Currently, the Boys & Girls Clubs serve more

than 11,000 youth in Lake County. Partnerships and collaborations with area school systems

have grown with the implementation of Project Learn, a comprehensive education program

incorporated into every activity at the clubs. A snack program is also available to all club members. Club facilities have been

updated to provide more of a learning and fun environment for the children.

[ best ]RETIREMENT/

ASSISTED LIVING

COMMUNITY

Hartsfield Village10000 Columbia Ave

Munster, Ind.219.934.0750

hartsfieldvillage.com

Northwest Indiana’s very own Hartsfield Village is our reader’s top pick for Best Retirement/Assisted Living Community in this

“I am honored and pleased to provide a prayer service, a liturgy that is appealing to people and makes them feel closer to the Lord and closer to each other and provides them with meaning for their lives to give them strength in their problems and to give them God’s consolation and to provide hope for the future for their families and for themselves,” St. Mary’s Pastor Theodore J. Mens says. A community prayer service requires the wonderful cooperation of all the people involved in the liturgy, the cantors, musicians, lectors, Eucharistic ministers and ushers, he says. Thousands attend St. Mary’s annual festival which is Aug. 15 through Aug. 18. “It is not just a church community experience but a celebration of one of the last weekends of the summer for the entire extended Griffith and Lake County communities,” Pastor Mens says.

[ best ]PLACE TO WORKCentier Bank centier.com

Centier Bank strives to promote and support healthy lifestyles and overall wellness, as well as provide popular amenities for its nearly 700 associates. “It is our deep desire to enrich the lives of our

associates and their families by offering world-class benefits and by promoting work-life balance through educational resources and convenient

on-site amenities in a fun-driven, supportive work environment,” says Tami Janda, corporate wellness coordinator. Some of the programs Centier offers its employees include massage therapy, fitness classes, a workout facility and an onsite free clinic. Centier also offers free annual wellness screenings, support networks and a CARE program that provides a variety of support to bank associates in need, such as in financial or medical crisis or other unfortunate circumstances, Janda says.

SECOND PLACEHumane Society Calumet Area421 45th AveMunster, Ind.219.922.3811hscalumet.org

THIRD PLACEHumane Society Northwest Indiana6100 Melton Rd (US 20)Gary, Ind.219.938.3339petfinder.com/shelters/IN191.html

[ best ]PLACE TO WORSHIP

St. Mary Catholic Church

525 N Broad StGriffith, Ind.

219.924.4163smgriffith.org

SECOND PLACEFamily Christian

Center340 45th Ave

Munster, Ind.219.922.6500

familychristiancenter.org

THIRD PLACESt. Michael

the Archangel Catholic Church

1 W. Wilhelm StSchererville, Ind.

219.322.4505stmichaels-parish.org

SECOND PLACEFranciscan

Alliance Hospitals

franciscanalliance.org

THIRD PLACECitizens

Financialmybankcitizens.com

A Centier employee takes advantage of a free fitness class.

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 47

year’s poll. The mission of Hartsfield Village is to provide seniors the opportunity to enjoy life to the fullest with maintenance free, stress free living with a focus on staying actively involved mentally, physically and most importantly, socially with new friends and neighbors. “The best part of any day at Hartsfield Village is when a resident comments regarding how they have enjoyed participating in an event, sharing a laugh or taking advantage of our wellness programs to maintain their positive lifestyle,” explains Kevin Orze, Director of Marketing at Hartsfield Village Senior Living Community.

SECOND PLACESt. Anthony Hospice – Franciscan Community Services203 Franciscan DrCrown Point, Ind.219.661.5100stanthonyhome.com

THIRD PLACEWittenberg Village1200 East Luther DrCrown Point, Ind.219.663.3860lutheranlifecommunities.org/wittenberg-village

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We Have “Moved” People To Vote Us

Best of the Region 6 YeaRs in a Row

Hartsfield Village offers residents a full continuum of lifestyle options. Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Support, Skilled Nursing

and Rehabilitation Services are all available. We provide the opportunity for each resident to live life to the fullest potential. See why so many

seniors have traded the responsibility and uncertainties of home ownership for the maintenance and worry-free living experienced

by our community's residents.

Now Let Us Make YoUr Next Move YoUr Best Move

*Senior Move Management Services provided by Moving Places LLC. Offer requires application for and acceptance

of residence and actual move into Hartsfield Village as new Independent Living or Assisted Living residents.

Call today to schedule a Complimentary tour (219) 934-0750 or (800) 297-6188

Hartsfield Village • 10000 Columbia Ave • Munster, IN 46321 • www.HartsfieldVillage.com Hartsfield Village - Maintenance Free - Worry Free

BrINg IN tHIs Ad ANd reCeIVe

$1000 cReditApplied towards senior Move Management services*

Your Best Move Is Still Ahead...Your Best Move Is Still Ahead...

by our community's residents.

[ best ]CAR

REPAIR SHOP

Levin Tire & Auto Repair

Seven locations throughout Northwest Indianalevintirecenter.com

For the fourth straight year, Levin Tire & Service

Center has been named Best Car Repair store in the Best of the Region competition. The reason is great customer service and quality auto service. Levin Tire makes quality and safety a top priority, evident through investments in state-of-the-art equipment and tools. All service mechanics are ASE certified and continually train with new technology and safety standards. This combined with delivering the most personal, professional and affordable service, is what gives Levin an edge over competitors. All locations offer oil changes, brake, alignments, fluid exchanges, shocks/struts, heating and air conditioning, batteries, belts/hoses and transmission service.

SECOND PLACECrown Point

Auto Repair & Restoration

1510 N Main StCrown Point, Ind.

219.663.1847crownpointautorepair.com

THIRD PLACEMr. Tire

mrtire.com

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“Our people make the difference,” says Jay Costas, owner of Soft Touch Car Wash, named Best Car Wash for the second year in a row in the Best of the Region 2013 contest. The staff preps your vehicle and 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, rust inhibitor, wheel brightener and brake dust removal, and clearcoat protectant.

[ best ]CAR WASH

Soft Touch1303 Vale Park Rd

Valparaiso, Ind.219.477.4586

1492 Main St Crown Point, Ind.

219.662.1648

6262 Broadway Merrillville, Ind.219.980.2493

costascompanies.com/costascarwash

SECOND PLACEThe Door Store235 Ridge RdMunster, Ind.219.836.8202thedoorstoremunster.com

THIRD PLACEM&M Home Remodeling Services1877 E Summit StCrown Point, Ind.219.661.1600m-mcorp.com

[ best ]DOOR & WINDOW REPLACEMENT

Schilling8900 Wicker Ave (US 41)St. John, Ind. // 219.365.8585

9900 191st St // Mokena, Ill.708.479.7007schillings.com T

he Schilling motto is “give the customers what they want, when they want it, on time and error free,” and the family-run company does everything it can to

meet its customers needs. Founded in 1945 by Frank Schilling, Sr., and his brother, the company has locations in St. John and in Mokena, Illinois as well as a distribution center in Cedar Lake. Schilling carries three main lines of windows, and is the largest Anderson windows dealer in the Chicagoland area. They also can mold and customize windows to meet a customer’s specific requests. The company has in-house designers that can help you plan any home improvement project, says Kyle Patterson, a Schilling sales manager. “Our new slogan is ‘Best Price, Any Budget,’” he says. “Whatever your budget, we have designers who can help you stay in your price range.”

SECOND PLACEDrive & Shine

1350 US 41Schererville, Ind.

219.865.7788driveandshine.com

THIRD PLACEEasy Cleanmyeasyclean.com

may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 49

[ best ]BANK

centier.com Centier

Founded more than 100 years ago, Centier Bank is the largest privately-owned independent bank in Indiana

and remains committed to being owned and operated by the Schrage family in

the future. “Since 1994, Centier has regularly topped The Times’ Best of

the Region. In 2013, Centier continued its high level of excellence by not only

being voted Best Bank of the Region, but also voted Best Place to Work, Best

in Customer Service, and Best Financial Advisor,” says Mike Schrage, president and CEO. “We appreciate the faith and loyalty of our clients as Centier’s brand

and reputation for excellence increases.”

SECOND PLACEChase

chase.com

THIRD PLACECitizens Financial

mybankcitizens.com

[ best ]CHILDCARE CENTER

Wonder Years Learning Center 1838 45th Ave // Munster, Ind.219.750.1900 // wonderyearslearning.com

Putting one’s child in another’s care can often be a stressful experience. Yet, readers agree that if necessary, there is no one better for the responsibility than Wonder Years Learning Center. Located in Munster, the state-of-the-art facility continues to raise the bar in terms of providing a quality childcare and learning center, including flexible tuition options, healthier and nutritious meals and expanding hours of operation. “The best part of my day is when I stop by each classroom to say good morning,” remarks owner Jorge Gutierrez. “I love seeing our students actively learning through play, singing songs, creating art & crafts and teachers smiling and having a lot of fun.”

[ best ]CUSTOMER SERVICE

Centier centier.com

Centier Bank is a family owned bank that stands firmly behind their “Not For Sale” commitment, pledging to their associates, clients, and the communities throughout Indiana that they will continue to preserve independent hometown banking. Centier has 45 locations in Lake, Porter, La Porte, Marshall, and Tippecanoe counties. Centier is currently serving in more than 22 communities with 650 associates and more than $2.1 billion in assets. It is their mission to provide exceptional service experiences and build strong relationships with the families, businesses, and communities of Indiana. They stand behind the values of integrity, respect, friendship, caring, and loyalty. “Centier Bank stands testament that no matter how large a business has grown it is still possible to provide warm, personalized service. This comes easy to our associates because every effort is taken to provide a friendly environment based on values. We give our clients a feeling of family, membership, and belongingness,” says President & CEO Mike Schrage.

SECOND PLACEStrack & Van Tilstrackandvantil.com

THIRD PLACECitizens Financialmybankcitizens.com

SECOND PLACEHappy Days Childcare &

Learning Center2645 Main StHighland, Ind.219.923.1333

6111 Harrison St, Suite 145Merrillville, Ind.219.980.5437

86 East 70th PlMerrillville, Ind.219.769.6005

happydaysinc.com

THIRD PLACEChild Enrichment

Center5221 Fountain DrCrown Point, Ind.

219.736.5437childrenrichmentcenters.com

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[ best ]ELECTRICIANMeyer’s Heating & Cooling

100 N Griffith Blvd // Griffith, Ind.219.924.1999 // meyerscompaniesinc.com

“One call does it all,” says Joe Youment, co-owner with Paul Starcevich of Meyer’s Heating & Cooling, with pride. That’s because Meyer’s is known for all three: electric, plumbing, and HVAC. For the quality service and customer satisfaction that won top honors, Yothment credits their staff. “It’s all about our top-trained employees,” he says who understand that “for a remodel, the customer wants to make the least number of phone calls.” In business since 1951, “We’re known for our 24-hour service,” working in the Region and with the professional building trade. In addition to specials, rebates, discounts and coupons, Meyer’s offers an all-season service plan for worry-free maintenance.

SECOND PLACEAll Services

Electric670 Madison St, Suite E

Crown Point, Ind.877.899.1824

allserviceselectric.net

THIRD PLACECedar Electric29356 State Line Rd

Beecher, Ill.219.313.2588

Services

[ best ]FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Centier centier.com

W ith 45 branches around Northwest Indiana

and more opening each year, it is easy to see why Centier was chosen as the Best Financial Advisor in the region. The bank has six financial brokers and advisors, all of whom have more than a decade of experience and are available to meet with clients in any branch office, says Kathy Bradshaw, vice president program manager for Centier. “We want to meet the client where it’s convenient for them,” she says. She says Centier has a culture of values that helps customers figure out what their needs and priorities are and then tailor an investment strategy that’s specific to them. “We spend time getting to know our clients so we can help them fulfill their goals,” she says.

SECOND PLACEOak Partners

oakpartners.com

THIRD PLACEWells Fargo Financialwellsfargo.com

[ best ]HOME BUILDER

Olthof Homes8051 Wicker Ave (US 41), Suite ASt. John, Ind. // 219.558.8080olthofhomes.com

Since 1961 when Fritz Olthof began constructing his first set of new homes in Lansing, Illinois, Olthof Homes has grown to be the region’s best home builder today. They have expanded to build communities throughout Northwest Indiana including St. John, Cedar Lake, Crown Point, Chesterton, and Valparaiso. They offer single family homes, townhomes, condos, and duplexes. They bring beautifully designed homes that are built with skill and experience, resulting in sound, quality homes. Todd Olthof of Olthof Homes says, “We’ve been actively building homes in the region since 1961 and we offer a variety of home types for the customers. We work to offer what the market needs in different economic cycles and we work very hard to create innovative products and keep our customer happy. I’ve got a great staff. They are some great people. They work hard, they love the science of homebuilding, improving the product, and focusing on what we can deliver to customers at different price points.”

SECOND PLACEMcFarland Homes2300—A Ramblewood DrHighland, Ind.219.934.9885mcfarlandhomes.net

THIRD PLACE (TIE)1st Metropolitan Builders400 Fisher St, Suite JMunster, Ind.219.836.82821stmetropolitanbuilders.com

THIRD PLACE (TIE)Phillippe Builders3500 Union AveSteger, Ill.708.756.0860phillippebuilders.com

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[ best ]PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO

jc penney Portrait Studios jcpportraits.com

SECOND PLACEEdda Taylor PhotographieCourthouse Sq, Suite 304Crown Point, Ind.219.662.9500eddataylor.com

THIRD PLACEPat and Cassie Portrait Design219.779.7774patandcassie.com

jc penney Portrait studios has more than a dozen locations around northern Indiana, including studios in Merrillville and Valparaiso. Over the years, they have helped tens of thousands of families create everlasting memories.“For some 40 years, jc Portraits has been recording infants, toddlers and families, celebrating special events, holidays or simply the growth or maturing of children,” says Kelvin Miller, a spokesperson for Lifetouch. “We are passionate about our photography and intent on helping our guests create their own personal story,” says Jennifer Urbanczyk of jc penney Portrait Studios.

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55 W. 94th Place | Crown Point, IN | (219) 795-1000100 E. Lincolnway, Ste 202 | Valparaiso, IN | (219) 850-1040

www.oakpartners.com

Wealth & Retirement Planning13

13

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.

Repair & Restoration1510 N. Main St. • 219-663-1847

www.crownpointautorepair.com

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

FouR yeaRs in a Row!

- All of us at Crown Point Auto Repair

52 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Services

Illiana Heating & Air Conditioning provides quality workmanship and superior service with professional, dependable and knowledgeable technicians for your complete heating, air conditioning and indoor air quality products

and systems. Family owned and operated, Illiana Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. has been serving Northwest Indiana and the South Chicago suburbs for more than 25 years. The Cedar Lake-based business was named the Best Heating & Cooling in The Times 2013 Best of the Region contest. Whatever ones heating, ventilation and air conditioning needs, the finely trained staff is fully equipped to handle all of your HVAC equipment and indoor air comfort questions and needs.

SECOND PLACEMeyers’ Heating & Cooling100 N Griffith BlvdGriffith, Ind.219.924.1999meyerscompaniesinc.com

THIRD PLACECliff’s Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning344 Kennedy AveSchererville, Ind.219.864.1551cliffsheating.com

[ best ]HEATING

AND COOLINGIlliana Heating & Air Conditioning11407 Wicker Ave (US 41)

Cedar Lake, Ind.219.365.0006

illianaheating.net

Cliff’s Heating, RefRigeRation & a/C inC 344 Kennedy Ave, Schererville, IN 46375 | 219-864-1551 | www.cliffsheating.com

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

• Fully Automatic• Up to 5 year Warranty• Service Agreements Available

• 24/7 Protection• 7KW-300KW• Factory Trained• Concrete Pads available

generators from $2,799

We Will beatany Written

estimate.

Here’s a special offer in appreciation of your vote

Cliff’sthanks for voting us best!

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 53

illianaheating.net

A Christian Owned & Operated Company Since 1987

N.W. Indiana (219) 365-0006Demotte (219) 987-2107Illinois (708) 895-0006

$12500 OffThe Installation of any 95% High Efficient

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$2500 OffMaintenance Contracts

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FINALLY, AN INVESTMENTYOU CAN BE COMFORTABLE WITH

Call an Expert Todayfor a Free EstimateArmstrong 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.

Thank you for Voting Us Among the Best in the

Region...We look forward to another 25 years of service

to our Customers!

TT TT

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N.W. INDIANA: 219/924-1999 • HOBART: 219/756-1999 • ILLINOIS: 708/891-9099

www.meyersgriffith.comCALL US TODAY!

Meyer’s Companies Inc.

$20 OFF ANY SERVICE

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COuPONMEYER’S

Thank you for voting us Best of the Region

One Call Does It All!ELECTRIC - PLuMBING - HEATING & COOLING.

54 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Services

SECOND PLACEConnie BernardiState Farm Insurance1072 Joliet St (US 30)Dyer, Ind.219.322.9959conniebernardi.com

THIRD PLACEBarbara Gulden Insurance AgencyAmerican Family Insurance8025 Wicker Ave (US 41), Suite CSt. John, Ind.219.365.9909barbgulden.com

[ best ]INSURANCE AGENT

TIED FOR FIRSTAnton Insurance Agency Inc.155 S Calumet RdChesterton, Ind.219.926.8681antoninsurance.com

Anton Insurance Agency, Inc., has been serving both the personal and commercial needs of Northwest Indiana for more than 50 years. Anton Insurance Agency is a family owned and operated business led by Michael Anton, Jr, President. Mike’s wife, Nancy, is the CFO and they are joined by son Jim, and most recently, daughter Megan. The company’s Chesterton and Valparaiso agents have more than 250 years of insurance experience. Anton Insurance represents multiple insurance carriers, allowing them to find the most comprehensive coverages at a competitive price. The agency’s top priority is on servicing the needs of clients, for home, auto, life, business or health insurance needs.

TIED FOR FIRSTJim MiskovichState Farm Insurance6629 W US 30, Suite 8Schererville, Ind.219.322.2727statefarm.com

Having security can ease worries. With Jim Miskovich at State Farm Insurance, the security of great coverage is having a great agent for home, auto, and life insurance. “People are more than just a number on our computer,” says Miskovich, who has 29 years’ experience as an agent with the largest insurer of homes and automobiles in the country,” he says. “We provide our clients with caring, respectful, and dependable service each and every time, for a ‘wow’ experience.” That includes assisting clients with financial needs, too, through State Farm Bank, including CDs with competitive rates, the Coverdell College Savings Plan, Roth IRAs, money market accounts, 401(k) rollovers and more.

Mike Anton Jim Miskovich

SECOND PLACE

Von Tobel Lumber & Hardwarevontobels.com

THIRD PLACE

Maruszczak Appliance7809 W US 30

Schererville, Ind.219.865.0555

maruszczak.com

[ best ]KITCHEN/BATH REMODELING

Schilling8900 Wicker Ave

(US 41)St. John, Ind.219.365.8585

9900 191st StMokena, Ill.

708.479.7007schillings.com

Schilling’s has many choices in and design, décor, and materials in one store at unbeatable prices. A 7,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art showroom features 40 complete room scenes;

customers can visualize their dream kitchen—cabinets, countertops, flooring, everything. “We are a hybrid between a home center and design center, giving us the lowest prices and the latest trends,” says general manager Bob Blandford. The full room scenes range from traditional to contemporary to old-world, completely outfitted for every room. Customers can see true colors in the right application, and “they appreciate our friendly design staff and the great prices,” says owner Greg Schilling. An award-winning design staff means customers can have their dream look within their budget. ph

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[ best ]REAL

ESTATE AGENT

NW INDIANA

Brian Rossi Rossi & Taylor

8025 Wicker Ave (US 41), Suite D

St. John, Ind.219.365.8000

rossiandtaylor.com

SECOND PLACEBill McCabeCentury 21 Executive Realty421 W Lincoln HwySchererville, Ind.219.864.5000bmccabe.com

THIRD PLACEJana CaudillRedkey Realty Leaders503 E Summit St, Suite 1Crown Point, Ind.219.661.1256janacaudillteam.com

Brian Rossi began his first company more than 20 years ago, and has grown to become one of the top real estate agents in the region.

The St. John-based Rossi & Taylor has

sold countless homes, ranging from $30,000 homes to million dollar new-construction mansions, he says. His full-service company is on the cutting edge of technology. “With us, you get old school and the latest technology available,” he says. He credits his success to the family feeling of his company and his desire to give his clients the personal touches they want. “(Buying a home) is one of the most emotional tasks of your life,” he says. “We relate to a family selling a home because we are a family at our office.”Brian Rossi

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For your Insurance & Financial Needs,

Connie L. BernardiIns Agency Inc1072 Joliet U.S. 30Dyer, IN219.322.9959

Providing Insurance & Financial Servicesstatefarm.com®

State Farm Insurance Company • Bloomington, IL • statefarm.com®

Like A Good NeiGhbor StAte FArm iS there. ®

Thanks for voting meONE OF THE BEST!

56 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Services[ best ]LANDSCAPERAllen Landscape Centre2539 45th Ave // Highland, Ind.219.924.6076 // allenlandscape.com

for the fifth 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 large orange trucks fully-stocked with the supplies and equipment needed for any job.

[ best ]REAL

ESTATE AGENT

MICHIGAN

Louis PriceColdwell Banker

Residential Brokerage10 N Whitaker

New Buffalo, Mich.269.469.3950

coldwellbankeronline.com

Customers looking for real estate

possibilities want to have as much

information as possible, says Realtor

Louis Price of Coldwell Banker Residential

Brokerage, where agents stay informed

and translate that information for

customers. The 18 agents are also highly trained in customer service.

Price finds that resort country close to Lake Michigan holds a special appeal

for second-home buyers. “This area is a great second-home location for Chicago

area people to relax, rest, and enjoy themselves,” Price says. So for Price,

it makes sense to make it easy for customers to explore the possibilities: “I believe in helping people find what

they want, without a lot of high pressure.”

SECOND PLACEJay DeBruyn

300 Kalamazoo StSouth Haven, Mich.

269.637.8555shoresofsouthhaven.com

THIRD PLACESharon HalliburtonAmerican Homes Real Estate

4532 Red Arrow HwyStevensville, Mich.

269.208.3862sharonhalliburton.com

Louis Price

SECOND PLACEDean’s Lawn and Landscaping238 Kennedy AveSchererville, Ind.219.864.9078deanslandscaping.com

THIRD PLACER.A.L. Landscaping & Garden Center6616 W US 30Crown Point, Ind.219.865.6439rallandscapingandgardencenter.com

In their 40th year in business, the knowledgeable staff at Allen Landscape Centre is known throughout Northwest Indiana

as experts when it comes to outdoor beauty. Landing in the top spot once again as Best Landscaper, the family owned business is eager to help new and existing customers with all of their landscaping needs. “Whether they stop in to our Garden Center with a question or set up a meeting with one of our landscape designers, customers can always benefit from the personalized attention we offer,” explains Paula Allen, who owns the business alongside her husband Tom. “It’s all about enhancing what they already have with new landscape ideas!”

[ best ]PLUMBER

St. John Plumbing Service

10800 Joliet StSt John, Ind.

219.365.2080stjohnplumbingservice.com

SECOND PLACEMeyer’s Heating

& Cooling100 N Griffith Blvd

Griffith, Ind.219.924.1999

meyersgriffith.com

THIRD PLACETLC Plumbing235 North Lindberg

Griffith, Ind.219.922.6214

tlcplumbingonline.com

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Let us grow them into the garden of your dreams.

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.

Let us grow them intothe garden of your dreams.The AreA’s BesT PrIce

ALL FLATS $11.99 EA.GreAT seLecTIoN

$250 OFFANY LANDSCAPE

PROJECT OF $2500 OR MOREWith this coupon.

expires July 1, 2013.

10% OFFALL SHRUBS &

FLOWERING PLANTSone coupon per customer.

expires July 1, 2013.

ThANks for VoTING us...

$250 OFF

Free Design ConsultationIncludes Needs Assessment and Rendering. Value $100. Must book your appointment by June 30, 2013

ThANks for VoTING us...

Monday - Saturday 8 aM - 8 pM Sunday 8 aM - 5 pM

in Highlandin Highland

2539 45th Street 219-924-6076

THANK YOUfOr vOTiNg Us...THe Times besT Of regiON 2013

Voted Best of the region2010, 2011, 2012 & 2013

#1 LANDsCAPer

besT Of THe regiON gArDeN CeNTer

Landscape design/BuildSince 1973

your neighborhood Garden Center for 27 years!

earn reward Dollarswhen you shop at Allen’s!

Drippy or Leaky faucets? Toilet not working correctly? Clogged drain?

• LICENSED • BONDED • INSURED

No job is too small or too big! aNy service call over $110

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219.922.6214 • Griffith, IN

IN License #CO19700117 • IL License #055-015754

Visit us online at www.tlcplumbingonline.com

58 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Services

[ best ]PLACE FOR AN OIL CHANGE

Duke of Oilthedukeofoil.com

The 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—drivers are never far away from the company named Best Place for an Oil Change in The Times Best of the Region 2013 contest. The Duke of Oil takes pride in making certain each customer leaves satisfied and without worry. Technicians go through a rigorous training program. And at neighborhood Duke of Oil locations, you will get a quick lube and oil change at a reasonable price every 3,000 miles.

SECOND PLACEDrive & Shine1350 US 41Schererville, Ind.219.865.7788driveandshine.com

THIRD PLACEOil Express9615 Indianapolis Blvd (US 41)Highland, Ind.219.924.7840

6747 Indianapolis Blvd (US 41)Hammond, Ind.219.844.9919

1700 Sibley BlvdCalumet City, Ill.708.891.2470oilexpress.com

Brian Rossi and Bill Taylor set the gold standard in real estate in northwest Indiana, bringing a combined 50-plus years of experience to matching people with the right properties. In his first year in real estate, Rossi received the Outstanding

Salesmanship Award from the Greater Northwest Indiana Association of Realtors. Two years later he opened his own business, and 15 successful years later has expanded to his present company with three-time Purple Heart recipient Bill Taylor. “With us you get old school plus the latest technology, so Rossi and Taylor Realty Group covers everything,” says Rossi, who looks to be the number-one company in Listings and Sales in relation to its number of agents.

[ best ]RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE COMPANYRossi & Taylor Realty Group8025 Wicker Ave (US 41) // St. John, Ind.219.365.8000 // rossiandtaylor.com

SECOND PLACEMcColly Real Estatemccolly.com

THIRD PLACECentury 21 Alliance Group450 Lincolnway, Suite 200219.210.9148Valparaiso, Ind.21alliance.com

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As the roofing industry continues to evolve, so has M&M Home Remodeling Services. With over 100 employees and 37 years in the business, M&M takes the top spot as Best Roofer in this year’s poll, with company President Nick Yadron says the key their success has been the relationships they have established with both partners and customers. “Through our strong relationships with our manufacturing partners we are able to offer services such as Lifetime Roofing, Siding, and Windows,” says Yadron. “Through it all, we have been able to attract some of the best people in the entire industry and it shows on a daily basis from the feedback we receive from our customers.”

SECOND PLACER.L. Roofingrlroofingservice.com

THIRD PLACE (TIE)Rogers Roofing4540 WabashHammond, Ind.219.933.9145rogersroofing.com

THIRD PLACE (TIE)Champion Windows, Sunrooms, Roofs & Home Exteriors8219 Calumet AveMunster, Ind.219.227.4438championwindow.com

[ best ]ROOFER

M&M Home Remodeling

Services1877 E Summit StCrown Point, Ind.

219.661.1600m-mcorp.com

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save

50%and moreon localfavorites

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to subscribe to receive the latest local offers delivered

right to your inbox.

Small buSineSSeS are the heartbeat of northweSt indiana think local first

[ best ]BRIDAL/FORMAL

WEAR SHOP

David’s Bridal1700 E 80th StMerrillville, Ind.219.648.2000

davidsbridal.comdavidsbridal.com

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[ best ]ANTIQUE SHOP

It’s Just Serendipity5630 Hohman Ave // Hammond, Ind.219. 932.6328 // itsjustserendipity.biz

Blending the past with the beauty of the present, It’s Just Serendipity has been a Hammond favorite since opening in 2009. From antiques to home décor and custom gift baskets to vintage clothing

& accessories, the much loved store is a treasure trove of accidental discoveries. “We love our downtown and we are doing what we love!” say store owners Raymundo Garcia and Karen Maravilla. Voted once again as Best Antique Shop, It’s Just Serendipity and their talented staff are always on hand to help decorate a home or office with a mixture of new, vintage, and handmade creations for an eclectic marriage of style, originality, and flair.

SECOND PLACEDunhill Tuxedosdunhilltuxedos.com

THIRD PLACEElegance Wedding and Evening Wear2820 Highway AveHighland, Ind.219.923.0977elegancewedding.net

Maruszczak’s customers are their number one priority, plain and simple. Their service trucks are on the road six days a week to remedy any issue that may come up as soon as possible. Their customers appreciate that service and the security that comes with knowing that they won’t be left to fend for themselves should a problem arise. Since the early 1950’s, Maruszczak has been offering customers in the region the very best in service and quality. Today they have the area’s largest appliance showroom which displays a full line of major home appliances. Owner Pam Maruszczak

says, “We not only offer almost every brand available, but we also service everything and sell parts. We do installs when many places don’t, and we focus on giving good customer service. Our sales staff never pushes people into buying. We try to maintain their education on the various brands and models so they will know what the product will do for the customer. We have no turnover on our sales people because they love their work and love taking care of the customer.”

[ best ] APPLIANCE

STORE

Maruszczak Appliance Sales & Service

7809 W Lincoln Hwy (US 30)Schererville, Ind.219.865.0555

maruszczak.com

SECOND PLACENason’s Appliance Co.

1158 E Summit StCrown Point, Ind.

219.769.4161nasonsappliances.com

THIRD PLACEHometown Appliances

10033 Wicker Ave (US 41)St. John, Ind.219.595.8028

hometownappliancestore.com

David’s Bridal wants to make dreams come true, says Julie McBrayer, store manager of the Merrillville location. With countless gowns from designers like White by Vera Wang, Melissa Sweet, Oleg Cassini or Galina Signature in a variety of styles, “You are sure to find

your perfect gown at a price that won’t break the bank.” Bridesmaid dresses come in up to 42 different colors with sizes ranging from 0 to 16 for petite and missy and 14W to 26W for plus-size with select styles in 28 and 30. “Brides love working with a knowledgeable bridal consultant and enjoy trying on a wide selection of gowns and dresses in their size with the added convenience that most styles are available to take home the same day,” McBrayer says.

SECOND PLACEComfy Couch

2631 Highway AveHighland, Ind.219.513.9948

THIRD PLACEThe Key to

Estate Treasures8385 Wicker Ave (US 41),

Suite 1 and 3St. John, Ind.219.365.2700

thekeytoestatetreasures.com

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With more than 300 different styles in stock, Schilling was picked Best Carpet/Flooring Store in the Region.

Schilling keeps its prices competitive with big box stores by passing the savings directly on to their customers. “We take a truckload or semi load either directly to our store or to our distribution center, and cut out the costs of paying the middle-man,” says Kyle Patterson, sales manager for Schilling. Schilling offers dozens of varieties of laminates, hardwoods, engineered flooring, tile in stock as well as being to place special orders for customers. “We’ve created a showroom to show off all of our different things,” he says. “When people buy, they want to be able to touch it and make sure it’s what they want.”

[ best ]CARPET/

FLOORING STORE

Schilling8900 Wicker Ave (US 41)

St. John, Ind.219.365.8585

9900 191st StMokena, Ill.

708.479.7007schillings.com

SECOND PLACEVon TobelVontobels.com

THIRD PLACECover Rite9400 Indianapolis Blvd (US 41)Highland, Ind.219.922.6800

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

[ best ]ELECTRONICS STORE

Best Buy bestbuy.com

With modern lives constantly ruled by electronics these days, more and more Northwest Indiana residents are flocking to their local Best Buy store for all of their high tech needs . . . and they like what they find. Once again voted as the Best Electronics Store, Best Buy remains a one stop shop for all sorts of gadgets and gizmos. And as always, customer service ranks high among the reason why it remains a favorite with our readers. The store’s well-known group of talented technicians, the Geek Squad, is also ready to pull into driveways right when they are needed most.

SECOND PLACEhhgregghhgregg.com

THIRD PLACEHometown

Appliance & Electronics

10033 Wicker Ave (US 41)St. John, Ind.219.365.4758

hometownappliancestore.com

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15% REBATE BY MAIL ON THIS SUITE!*

SAVE OVER$ON THE SUITE WITH REBATE

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MER8674ASMaytag® 6.2 cu. ft. Electric RangeAquaLift® self-clean technology

MFT2672AEMMaytag® 26 cu. ft. French Door RefrigeratorFreshFlow™ produce preserver

MDB7759SASMaytag® Jetclean® Plus Dishwasher100% Stainless Steel tub interior

ON THE SUITE!

**

Regular Suite Price $3747

3185

56215%

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MMV5208WSMaytag® 2.0 cu. ft. Over-the-Range MicrowaveWideGlide™ turntable tray

MET8885XSMaytag® 6.7 cu. ft. Electric RangeEvenAir™ true convection

**

**

Regular Pair Price $1998

1801

317

15%Rebate

with purchase of select Maytag® Kitchen appliances*

Receive up to a

$250Rebate with purchase of select Maytag® Laundry appliances*

Receive up to a

andor

$250 REBATE BY MAIL ON THE PAIR!*

15% REBATE BY MAIL ON THE PAIR!*

15% REBATE BY MAIL ON THIS SUITE!*

10% REBATE BY MAIL!*

10% REBATE BY MAIL!*

10% REBATE BY MAIL!*

MVWB850YWMaytag® Bravos XL® 4.6 cu. ft. WasherPowerWash® system

MEDB850YWMaytag® Bravos XL® 7.3 cu. ft. DryerSteam cycles

May 1–31, 2013

MVWC360AWMaytag® Centennial®

3.6 cu. ft. WasherDeep Clean option

MEDC200XWMaytag® Centennial®

7.0 cu. ft. DryerGentleBreeze™ drying system

$250 REBATE BY MAIL ON THE PAIR!*

$150 REBATE BY MAIL ON THE PAIR!*

Optional pedestals sold separately

Offer Valid May 1–31, 2013. *See Store for Rebate Form with complete details and qualifi ed models. Only valid at participating Maytag Brand retailers. Rebate in the form of a Maytag Brand MasterCard® Prepaid Card by mail. Total rebate based on retail purchase price excluding taxes, delivery and installation. **Visit maytag.com for warranty details. Parts vary by model. Cards are issued by Citibank, N.A. pursuant to a license from MasterCard International Incorporated. MasterCard is a registered trademark of MasterCard International Incorporated. Cards will not have cash access and can be used everywhere MasterCard debit cards are accepted. ®/™ ©2013 Maytag. All rights reserved. To learn more about the entire Maytag Brand line, please visit maytag.com. ROP-14795

THE MONTH YOU’VE BEEN WAITING FOR IS HERE

MHW6000AWMaytag® Maxima XL™ 4.3 cu. ft. WasherPowerWash® cycle

MED6000AWMaytag® Maxima XL™ 7.4 cu. ft. DryerAdvanced Moisture Sensing

ONLY$EACH AFTER REBATE

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ON THE PAIR WITH REBATE250

ONLY$EACH AFTER REBATE

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ON THE PAIR WITH REBATE250

WASHER ONLY$SAVE $

ON THE PAIR WITH REBATE150

SAVE OVER$ON THE PAIR WITH REBATE

LESS THAN $

FOR THE PAIR AFTER REBATE

MMV5208WSMaytag® 2.0 cu. ft. Over-the-Range MicrowaveWideGlide™ turntable tray

MET8885XSMaytag® 6.7 cu. ft. Electric RangeEvenAir™ true convection

SAVE OVER$ON THE SUITE WITH REBATE

LESS THAN $FOR THE SUITE AFTER REBATE

MER8674ASMaytag® 6.2 cu. ft. Electric RangeAquaLift® self-clean technology

MFT2672AEMMaytag® 26 cu. ft. French Door RefrigeratorFreshFlow™ produce preserver

MDB7759SASMaytag® Jetclean® Plus Dishwasher100% Stainless Steel tub interior

SAVE OVER$WITH REBATE

LESS THAN $

WITH REBATE

MFI2670XEMMaytag® Ice2O

® 26 cu. ft. French Door RefrigeratorWide-N-Fresh™ deli drawer

LESS THAN$AFTER REBATE

SAVE OVER $

M9BXXGMYBMaytag® 19 cu. ft. Top-Freezer RefrigeratorFactory-installed icemaker

LESS THAN$AFTER REBATE

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MDB7749SBWMaytag® Jetclean® Plus Dishwasher100% Stainless Steel tub interior

ON THE SUITE!

** ****

**

****

**

**

Regular Pair Price $2118

1801

317Regular Suite Price $3747

3185

562

Regular Price $2299

2070

229 765

Regular Pair Price $1098Pair Price After Rebate $948

599Regular Pair Price $2198

974Regular Pair Price $1998

874

84Regular Price $849

49554

Regular Price $549

Thanks for voting us #1 for the 5th year in a row!

Receive up to a

15%Rebate

with purchase of select Maytag* Kitchen applicances*

Receive up to a

$250Rebate with purchase of select Maytag* Laundry applicances*

andor

May 1-31, 2013

15%Rebate

with purchase of select Maytag® Kitchen appliances*

Receive up to a

$250Rebate with purchase of select Maytag® Laundry appliances*

Receive up to a

andor

$250 REBATE BY MAIL ON THE PAIR!*

15% REBATE BY MAIL ON THE PAIR!*

15% REBATE BY MAIL ON THIS SUITE!*

10% REBATE BY MAIL!*

10% REBATE BY MAIL!*

10% REBATE BY MAIL!*

MVWB850YWMaytag® Bravos XL® 4.6 cu. ft. WasherPowerWash® system

MEDB850YWMaytag® Bravos XL® 7.3 cu. ft. DryerSteam cycles

May 1–31, 2013

MVWC360AWMaytag® Centennial®

3.6 cu. ft. WasherDeep Clean option

MEDC200XWMaytag® Centennial®

7.0 cu. ft. DryerGentleBreeze™ drying system

$250 REBATE BY MAIL ON THE PAIR!*

$150 REBATE BY MAIL ON THE PAIR!*

Optional pedestals sold separately

Offer Valid May 1–31, 2013. *See Store for Rebate Form with complete details and qualifi ed models. Only valid at participating Maytag Brand retailers. Rebate in the form of a Maytag Brand MasterCard® Prepaid Card by mail. Total rebate based on retail purchase price excluding taxes, delivery and installation. **Visit maytag.com for warranty details. Parts vary by model. Cards are issued by Citibank, N.A. pursuant to a license from MasterCard International Incorporated. MasterCard is a registered trademark of MasterCard International Incorporated. Cards will not have cash access and can be used everywhere MasterCard debit cards are accepted. ®/™ ©2013 Maytag. All rights reserved. To learn more about the entire Maytag Brand line, please visit maytag.com. ROP-14795

THE MONTH YOU’VE BEEN WAITING FOR IS HERE

MHW6000AWMaytag® Maxima XL™ 4.3 cu. ft. WasherPowerWash® cycle

MED6000AWMaytag® Maxima XL™ 7.4 cu. ft. DryerAdvanced Moisture Sensing

ONLY$EACH AFTER REBATE

SAVE $

ON THE PAIR WITH REBATE250

ONLY$EACH AFTER REBATE

SAVE $

ON THE PAIR WITH REBATE250

WASHER ONLY$SAVE $

ON THE PAIR WITH REBATE150

SAVE OVER$ON THE PAIR WITH REBATE

LESS THAN $

FOR THE PAIR AFTER REBATE

MMV5208WSMaytag® 2.0 cu. ft. Over-the-Range MicrowaveWideGlide™ turntable tray

MET8885XSMaytag® 6.7 cu. ft. Electric RangeEvenAir™ true convection

SAVE OVER$ON THE SUITE WITH REBATE

LESS THAN $

FOR THE SUITE AFTER REBATE

MER8674ASMaytag® 6.2 cu. ft. Electric RangeAquaLift® self-clean technology

MFT2672AEMMaytag® 26 cu. ft. French Door RefrigeratorFreshFlow™ produce preserver

MDB7759SASMaytag® Jetclean® Plus Dishwasher100% Stainless Steel tub interior

SAVE OVER$WITH REBATE

LESS THAN $

WITH REBATE

MFI2670XEMMaytag® Ice2O

® 26 cu. ft. French Door RefrigeratorWide-N-Fresh™ deli drawer

LESS THAN$AFTER REBATE

SAVE OVER $

M9BXXGMYBMaytag® 19 cu. ft. Top-Freezer RefrigeratorFactory-installed icemaker

LESS THAN$AFTER REBATE

SAVE OVER $

MDB7749SBWMaytag® Jetclean® Plus Dishwasher100% Stainless Steel tub interior

ON THE SUITE!

** ****

**

****

**

**

Regular Pair Price $2118

1801

317Regular Suite Price $3747

3185

562

Regular Price $2299

2070

229 765

Regular Pair Price $1098Pair Price After Rebate $948

599Regular Pair Price $2198

974Regular Pair Price $1998

874

84Regular Price $849

49554

Regular Price $549

62 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Shopping[ best ]CONSIGNMENT STOREOnce Upon a Child 29 US 41 // Schererville, Ind.219.864.1976 // onceuponachild.com

When their daughter simply doesn’t use her old bike anymore or their son will never wear that expensive three piece suit again, parents turn to Once upon a Child. Once again voted as the Best Consignment Store, readers love to browse the store’s wide range of brand new and gently used clothes, toys and baby equipment. “We have many more customers coming in for larger items such as high end strollers and swings since they can get it at half the price than if they bought it new,” explains Kim Crnarich, owner of the Schererville Once Upon a Child. “Children grow up so fast, so our store serves as a wonderful option for parents looking to save some money.”

SECOND PLACEIt’s Just Serendipity5630 Hohman AveHammond, Ind.219.932.NEAT

THIRD PLACEHidden Treasures Consignment Boutique2211 US 41Schererville, Ind.219.322.6340hiddentreasuresconsign.com

A multi-year winner in The Times Best of the Region competition,

Bryan’s Florist was founded by Ray Bryan in 1949. With seven shops located throughout Northwest

Indiana, Bryan’s Florist is a full service provider of fresh cut flowers, floral arrangements, plants, home decorations and gifts. Throughout the years, Bryan’s has become a trusted member of the retail community as well as a supporter of various charitable events. With more than 60 years of experience, Bryan’s Florist offers the highest level of service, reasonable pricing and the quality, variety and beautiful selection of flowers that customers have come to expect.

[ best ]FURNITURE STORE

Ashley Furniture ashleyfurniture.com

Although Ashley Furniture has locations throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico, readers voted it the best furniture store locally. That could be because Ashley’s Furniture’s business plan is simple—cut out the middleman costs. Using an in-house design team, the furniture store creates the look but without the expensive design fees. All orders also are filled from regional warehouses and served by the company’s own fleet of trucks—saving the business costs that don’t get passed down to the customer.

SECOND PLACEIndiana Furnitureindianafurniture.com

THIRD PLACEDarvin Furniture15400 La Grange RdOrland Park, Ill.708.460.4100darvin.com

[ best ]FLORIST

Bryan’s Floristbryansflorists.com

SECOND PLACECedar Lake

Florist8600 Lake Shore Dr

Cedar Lake, Ind.219.374.7532

cedarlakeflorist.com

THIRD PLACEBrumm’s

Bloomin’ Barn2540 45th AveHighland, Ind.219.924.1000

brummsflowers.com

Indiana, Bryan’s Florist is a full service provider of fresh cut

Indiana Furniture

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 63

[ best ]GARDEN/NURSERY STORE

NW INDIANA

Alsip Home & Nursery10255 Wicker Ave (US 41) // St. John, Ind. // 219.365.0882

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

The St. John location of Alsip Nursery is first in the Best Garden/Nursery Store for good reason. Since 1994, Northwest Indiana residents have flocked to the 17-acre site, where you can purchase everything from flowers to

home and garden décor. There is also a full-service pet section, which includes a vet clinic and grooming services. Co-owner Richard Christakes credits his knowledgeable staff, many whom have been with the company for more than a decade, for providing excellent service to those who visit the nursery. Another bonus for the location is the spacious greenhouse, which is open year-round. “Even if it’s five degrees outside, you can still come in and walk around and see flowers,” Christakes says.

SECOND PLACEAllen Landscape Centre2539 45th AveHighland, Ind.219.924.6076allenlandscape.com

THIRD PLACEChesterton Feed & Garden400 Locust StChesterton, Ind.219.926.2790chestertonfeed.com

Abbey Ketelaar of at Alsip Home & Nursery arranges flowers on a fountain installation.

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THANK YOU!YOU VOTED US #1!AND WE THINK THAT’S PRETTY AWESOME!So in honor of your support:

SAVE $5OFF YOUR NEXT $20+ PURCHASE!Cannot be combined with other offers.YOUR NEXT $20+ PURCHASE!

Expires: 5/27/2013

*CP989* CP989

ST. JOHN, IN: Route 41• 4 mi. South of RT. 30 | PH: 219.365.0882 FRANKFORT, IL: Route 45 • 2 mi. South of I-80 | PH: 815.469.1044

We Appreciate Our Moms

Baby Store AND Consignment Store!

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

4 yeArS iN A rOW!

MARIA’S

To all our customers who voted us Best Gift Boutique in Northwest Indiana.

Munster836-5025

Crown Point661-0420

Schererville322-5503

VIsIT our New locaTIoN IN scherereVIlle 3 doors south between Dress Barn & Vision Point

hallmark's Newest Design!

For fun, unusual gifts and party accessories, Maria Hobby’s three Hallmark stores in Northwest Indiana have just the right accent

or gift. “I am elated as always to receive this honor,” says Hobby, and her enthusiasm is evident in the merchandise she selects. Baggallini handbags are hot right now; pair one with a

jeweled scarf and sandals and swing into the spring with bling. There are lots of special-occasion choices for parties—think personalized plates in popular themes, cards for all occasions, gift wrap and invitations. “We aim to give great customer service,” says Hobby, “at all three stores.” Don’t miss the Schererville location—in mid-April it’s moving just three doors south of its present location.

[ best ]GIFT BOUTIQUE

Maria’s Hallmark923 Ridge RdMunster, Ind.

219.836.5025

1525 US 41Schererville, Ind.219.322.5503

10827 BroadwayCrown Point, Ind.

219.661.0420hallmark.com

SECOND PLACELouise’s Hallmark

9533 Wicker Ave (US 41)St. John, Ind.219.365.3837hallmark.com

THIRD PLACECedar Lake

Florist8600 Lake Shore Dr

Cedar Lake, Ind.219.374.7532

cedarlakeflorist.com

64 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013

Shopping[ best ]

GARDEN/NURSERY

STORE ILLINOIS

Alsip Home & Nursery

20601 S LaGrange RdFrankfort, Ill. // 815.469.1044

10255 Wicker Ave (US 41)St. John, Ind. // 219.365.0882

alsipnursery.com

Since 1969, Alsip Nursery in Frankfort has been providing

customers a large selection of grills, flowers and trees, and gardening

necessities. The store is located on about 10 acres, and employs more

than 150 people during the peak summer season, says

co-owner Richard Christakes. The company has a 140,000 square foot greenhouse in LaPorte, Ind., where

it grows 90 percent of the flowering annuals the company sells. With a

second location in St. John, Ind., Alsip Nursery employs full-time

landscape designers and have 3-dimensional landscaping planning

capabilities, so the designers can work with customers to provide the

garden of their dreams. “We’re a unique store, and do a lot of things

other stores don’t,” he says.

SECOND PLACESunrise Greenhouse

(Woldhuis Farms)10300 E 9000 N Rd

Grant Park, Ill.woldhuisfarms.com

THIRD PLACESmits Farms

3437 E Sauk TrailChicago, Ill.

smitsfarms.com

[ best ]GARDEN/NURSERY STORE MICHIGAN

Dickerson’s Floral & Garden Center34026 M-43Paw Paw, Mich.269.521.3838dickersons.com

Fresh and lovely, Dickerson’s incredible array of potted plants are the result of years of dedication. In fact, “We love the challenge and competition as we continue to raise the bar of what a quality plant should be,” says Don Dickerson.

Recently acquired by Augustus Growers LLC, Dickerson’s Floral & Garden Center continues its 80-year tradition of selecting only the best for its business as wholesale grower of quality potted plants.

An optimistic attitude and strong family ties ensured success in a business that depends on attention to every detail. “We beautify the country with quality plants and a service-oriented culture with a large variety of flowering/foliage alternatives.”

SECOND PLACENew Life Nursery3720 64th StHolland, Mich.269.857.1209newlifenursery.com

THIRD PLACESawyer Home & Garden Center5865 Sawyer RdSawyer, Mich.269.426.8810sawyergardencenter.com

Maria’s Hallmark Munster store staff: Karen Rentfro, Wendy Bonarigo and Mary Jo Peters.

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 65

[ best ]JEWELRY

STORE

Albert’s Diamond Jewelers

711 Main StSchererville, Ind. 219.322.2700

Southlake MallMerrillville, Ind.

219.769.1976albertsjewelers.com

SECOND PLACEHighland Jewelers2839 Highway AveHighland, Ind.219.838.2530highlandjeweler.com

THIRD PLACEMartin Binder23 LincolnwayValparaiso, Ind.219.462.5931martinbinders.com

Albert’s Diamond Jewelers has served Northwest Indiana since 1905 and become a mainstay in the community with its superior customer service and high quality products. Shoppers can browse the aisles, drop off items for in-house repairs, check out the custom jewelry shop and receive jewelry appraisals. “Customer service is first and foremost in our mind,”

says Joshua Halpern, president of Albert’s. “We want to make sure our guests have a wow experience. We think about building a relationship before we ever think about selling to somebody. We’re more than happy to help assist everyone in picking out one of those one-of-a-kind pieces for a loved one. People can buy jewelry at a lot of places. They buy from us because our service is second to none.” Albert’s has two locations that specialize in diamonds and diamond engagement rings, Halpern says. They also carry jewelry and watches from brands like Cartier, Chopard, Tag Heuer and Pandora. The flagship Schererville location added 9,000 square feet this year and now has 21,000 square feet to house its huge jewelry selection. The Merrillville location also underwent a renovation and added 2,200 square feet. Community involvement is also important at Albert’s. “When you’re a local business, part of being in business is giving back to community,” Halpern says, noting he and his family live in the community.

Albert’s Diamond Jewelers is one of the largest family-owned jewelers. Shown [from left] are Ashley Halpern, Joshua Halpern, Charles Halpern, Donna Halpern, and Fred Halpern.

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Downtown Highland

2839 Highway Avenue • (219) 838-2530 www.highlandjeweler.com

Hours: Mon. and Thurs. 9:30am-8pmTues., Wed. and Fri. 9:30am - 6pm and Sat. 9:30am to 5pm

BEST IN PRICE1 Year FREE FINANCING

Thank Youfor Voting

for Us

66 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Shopping

[ best ]GROCERY STORE

Strack & Van Til strackandvantil.com

Strack and Van Til has a rich and long history in the region as the leading full service food store, exceeding customer expectations today, and into the new millennium. They bring customers the finest quality products at the best value and provide their customers with a friendly shopping experience in a clean, safe, environment. Strack & Van Til is successful because of the dedicated efforts of their associates and they are committed to their training and development.

They remain dedicated to the communities they serve by supporting organizations and events that enhance the quality of life. Strack’s commitment to the community and success has allowed the local chain to expand into additional markets this year, with new locations in Valparaiso and Chesterton, among others recently. Jeff Strack, vice president of operations for Strack & Van Til says that their dedication to quality foods and exceptional service has allowed

them to prosper to become Northwest Indiana’s largest independent grocery operator. “We’re very humbled about what we have been able to do but more importantly we are very excited for future opportunities to grow our company,” says Strack.

SECOND PLACEMeijer

meijer.com

THIRD PLACE

Aldialdi.com

[ best ]HOME DÉCOR STORE

jc penney Home Store

jcpenney.com

Editor’s note: Readers voted for jc penney Home Store in this

category but the store has been consolidated in Hobart with jc

penney’s main store.

jc penney is undergoing a makeover that will include a

reimagined home department featuring past favorites from

the jc penney Home Store as well as fresh and new

designs. “Our customers told us they like the convenience of being able to shop all our

designs under one roof,” says Lawrence Eleftheri, jc penney’s

store leader in Merrillville. “Our home department is

being brought back into our main store with new product

lines that we’re going to be launching.” Many favorite

brands from the home stores will be available in addition

to new designer brands and a new furniture assortment with

smart pricing, Eleftheri says.

SECOND PLACESchilling

8900 Wicker Ave (US 41)St. John, Ind.219.365.6005schillings.com

THIRD PLACEDeYoung Interiors

8365 Wicker Ave (US 41)St. John, Ind.219.365.8362

deyoungandsons.com

[ best ]HOME IMPROVEMENT STORE

Menards menards.com

Seldom can our readers get through the weekend without a trip to Menards. Voted as the “Best Home Improvement Store” in our annual poll, Menards carries everything from the tools for your upcoming deck project to some much needed groceries

from their convenience section. Known throughout the Midwest for their wide selection of high-quality, name brand merchandise, Menards continues to add to their successful run as one of the best know home improvement stores in the area. 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 PLACELowe’slowes.com

THIRD PLACEHome Depot

homedepot.com

American Mattress prides itself on taking caring of the sleeping needs

of local families. With nearly a hundred stores in Indiana, Illinois and

Wisconsin, the store provides a variety of mattress choices and other bedding needs based on individual preferences.

“Because we’re family owned and operated, our customers receive a

level of personal service that creates a customer for life,” says Frank DeMaio,

one of American Mattress’ owners. More than half of the chain’s business

consists of repeat and referred customers—contributing to the success

of American Mattress over the past two decades. “We are now celebrating our 25th year with the opening of our

100th store,” DeMaio says.

[ best ]MATTRESS STORE

American Mattress americanmattress.com

SECOND PLACEBedding Expertsbeddingexperts.com

THIRD PLACELynn’s Bedroom CityLocations in Merrillville, Schererville and Valparaiso, Ind.bedroom-city.com

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A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 67

Getting a man into a store to look for clothes is no easy feat. Yet, from the looks of it, many find Kohl’s as the place to go. Coming from third place last year to taking over the first place spot this year, Kohl’s distinction as Best Men’s Clothing Store is a worthy one. The retailer is known for an unsurpassed selection of men’s clothing, shoes and accessories at unbelievable prices. As of this year, Kohl’s operates 1,146 stores in 49 states, including a number in Northwest Indiana.

[ best ]MEN’S CLOTHING STORE

Kohl’s kohls.com

SECOND PLACEjc penneyjcpenney.com

THIRD PLACECarson Pirie Scottcarsons.com

Third generation Welch’s 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. Open daily at 8 a.m., Welch’s also carries seafood, a wide array of deli meats, fresh produce and home-made breads baked daily. Welch’s closes Monday through Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday 6 p.m. and Sunday 4 p.m. For busy families, Welch’s offers about 30 varieties of frozen pre-made heat and eat items including Italian beef, turkey and stuffing, barbeque beef and pork, lasagna and Italian meatballs. “Saturdays are fun around Stop and Shop with our outdoor cookouts,” Welch says. Weather permitting the cookouts feature steak sandwiches, hot dogs, Polish sausage and bratwurst.

[ best ]PLACE TO BUY

MEAT AND POULTRY

Welch’s Stop and Shop

11333 W 95th StSt. John, Ind.219.365.8190

welchsmeats.com

SECOND PLACEStrack & Van Til

strackandvantil.com

THIRD PLACERob’s Meat Chop & Deli2123 N Winds Dr

Dyer, Ind.219.322.8760

robsmeatchop.com

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219-365-8190 11333 W. 95th Street • St. John ( n e x t t o K - M a r t )

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

We invite You to Experience the Welch’s Difference

visit us at: www.welchsmeats.com

We have delicious

hoMeMade SOUPSand hOmemade breadS

s e r v i n g f o r o v e r 5 4 ye a r s

Thanks for Voting Welch’s Stop & Shop

#1 theBest Place for Meat &

PoultrySpecial thanks to

our Longtime Employee

Paul GebauerYour outstanding ServiceMade this Award possible!

Every Saturday and Sunday

Join Us For

68 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013

Specializing in General Motors vehicles since 1968, Schepel Auto Group features a fully renovated Buick-GMC store and a state-of-the-art Cadillac facility. But it’s Schepel’s business practices that keep people coming back. “We have not, and do not intend to add any extra doc or prep charges to any transactions,” says vice president Tom VanProoyen. “We’re different in what we do. We’ve always prided ourselves on a low-pressure, enjoyable car buying experience. In the past there’s been a lot of negative feelings about the car buying experience and we work hard to overcome that.”

[ best ]NEW CAR DEALER

Schepel Auto Group

Schepel Buick-GMC3209 W Lincoln Hwy

(US 30)Merrillville, Ind.219.769.3681schepel.com

Schepel Cadillac2929 W US 30Merrillville, Ind.219.738.1900

schepelcadillac.com

SECOND PLACEBosak Auto Group(Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, and Honda)bosakauto.com

THIRD PLACETeam Auto Stores(Toyota, Chevrolet, Hyundai, Audi, Volkswagen, and Honda)teamautostores.com

[ best ]HUNTING/FISHING/

OUTDOOR STORE

Bass Pro Shop6425 Daniel Burnham Dr // Portage, Ind.

219.787.6800 // basspro.com

Shopping

It is no wonder that Bass Pro Shops has become one of America’s premier outdoor retailers. Not only are they an outdoor retail store

with locations across America and Canada, but they serve over 75 million sportsmen a year. 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 Islamorada Fish 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, general manager of Bass Pro in Portage says, “We try to create an environment where we bring the outdoors inside. We provide excellent customer service and we have an excellent selection and our boat department, and our restaurant is spectacular. Plus, we have a fun environment. We get multiple generations here, customers from all over the region, surrounding states, even all over the world with Chicago being so close.”

SECOND PLACECabela’s7700 Cabela DrHammond, Ind.219.845.9040cabelas.com

THIRD PLACEBlythe’s Sports and Gun Shop138 N Broad StGriffith, Ind.219.924.4403

2810 Calumet AveValparaiso, Ind.219.476.0026ihuntishoot.com

SECOND PLACEWiseGuys Liquors9127 Taft StMerrillville, Ind.219.791.9419

1413 South Lake Park AveHobart, Ind.219.947.1997wiseguysliquors.com

THIRD PLACESt. John Wine & Spirits9540 Poplar LaneSt John, Ind.219.558.8911

9840 Wicker Ave (US 41)St. John, Ind.219.365.8305stjohnwineandspirits.com

[ best ]LIQUOR STORE

Nick’s Liquorsnicksliquors.com

Nick’s Liquors continues to be a favorite with our readers, earning them yet again the distinction of Best Liquor Store. With eight locations throughout Northwest Indiana and 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.

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A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 69

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6 GREAT LOCATIONS

We, the owners and employees of Nick’s Liquors would like to thank you for once again voting us the best liquor store in the region. For over forty years and now in its second generation, Nick’s Liquors continues to provide their customers with service and value.With everyday low prices, monthly sales and special buys, there is always a reason to stop in one of our six locations. Whether it’s finding your favorite craft beer, ordering that special bottle or carrying out your purchase our friendly staff is always willing to help. See us on the web at Nicksliquors.com for tasting dates and a look at the newest products.

6914 Indianapolis Blvd. Hammond, IN • 844-3239

4718 Calumet Ave. Hammond, IN • 933-4702

5705 Hohman Ave. Hammond, IN • 931-4569

4891 US 30 Hobart, IN • 945-5300

6838 Calumet Ave. Hammond, IN • 931-9978

8103 Taft St.Merrillville, IN • 769-7750

Hammond

Hammond

Hobart

Hammond

Hammond

Merrillville

SPORT SHOPS

SINCE 1952GRIFFITH

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

VALPARAISO2810 N. CALUMET • (219) 476-0026

Mon.- Fri. 9am- 6pm • Sat. 9am - 5pm • Sun. Noon - 5pm

Blythe’s Wants To

Our Customers.

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

SERVICE, SELECTION, AND PRICEContinues to help us grow to meet your needs.

FAMILY OWNED - OPERATED - VALUESMakes us unique

CELEBRATING OUR 61st ANNIVERsARY

Merrillville - 93rd & Taft, Next to PayLowPhone: 219•791•9419

Hobart - 1413 Lake Park Ave.Phone: 219•947•1997

check us out at: wiseguysliquors.com

Shopping

SECOND PLACESt. John Wine and Spirits9540 Poplar LaneSt. John, Ind.219.558.8911

9480 Wicker Ave (US 41)St. John, Ind.219.365.8305stjohnwineandspirits.com

THIRD PLACENick’s Liquorsnicksliquors.com

[ best ]PLACE TO BUY

PRODUCE

Meijermeijer.com

Meijer is the region’s favorite place to buy produce, perhaps

because of the quality, freshness, and vast selection of offerings. Meijer has purchased from local

growers since the company’s inception, and the retailer’s effort

to buy local has expanded over the past five years as the focus on local became more important to customers. Meijer is currently

the largest purchaser of local produce in the markets it serves

and locally-grown produce accounts for 30 percent of all produce sold at Meijer stores

during the peak season. Meijer works with more than 100 local

growers and businesses within its five-state footprint, representing

an economic impact of more than $80 million annually. “Meijer has a longstanding

commitment to buying locally-grown produce when available as

long as the quality meets our high standards,” says Jerry Suter, vice

president of fresh for the Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer.

SECOND PLACEStrack & Van Til

strackandvantil.com

THIRD PLACEScheeringa Farms & Produce, LLC

9436 Cline AveHighland, Ind.219.838.6369

scheeringafarms.net

Red Ruff the dog and Blue Mews the cat symbolize PETCO, which offers an array of

pet supplies and services as well as live animals to adopt. Nearby stores include two in Northwest Indiana and one in Calumet City with more than a dozen other stores located throughout nearby Illinois communities. Beds, treats, calming aids, bowls, chews, collars, crates, food, medical care supplies and vitamins and supplements are just a few of the products for family members from the animal kingdom. Among the pet services are grooming and dog washing, training and behavior classes and even veterinary care.

[ best ]PLACE TO BUY WINE

WiseGuys Liquors9133 Taft St // Merrillville, Ind. // 219.791.9419

1413 South Lake Park Ave // Hobart, Ind. // 219.947.1997wiseguysliquors.com

Having an educated staff that assists consumers

with choosing the best wine for any occasion is one of the reasons Rick Green says WiseGuys Liquors has found success. As buyer and operator, Green says it’s a great honor for WiseGuys to

be known among readers as the best place to buy wine in the region. Green tributes WiseGuys’ popularity to the wide selection of wine, liquor and craft beers offered at the Merrillville and Hobart locations. “We have a lot of customers come in and they know they’re going to get their questions answered,” he says. “We’re known for helping our customers.”

[ best ]WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE

Kohl’s kohls.com

Kohl’s women’s clothing department is substantial, with sections divided into size, like women’s plus-size, petites, maternity, and juniors, as well as by their exclusive designers. These special fashion stylists make Kohl’s unique to any other store with designers like Vera Wang, Derek Lam, Jennifer Lopez, Dana Buchman, Lauren Conrad, and more. Because these designers bring their special lines to Kohl’s, the fashion trends are always current and they change frequently. Kohl’s also offers the other essentials needed for wardrobes, including intimates, accessories, and shoes.

SECOND PLACECarson

Pirie Scottcarsons.com

THIRD PLACE

jc penneyjcpenney.com

[ best ]PET SHOP

PETCOpetco.com

SECOND PLACEPet Supplies

Plus946 Joliet St (US 30)

Dyer, Ind.219. 864.8118

2410 LaPorte AveValparaiso, Ind.

219.531.0622petsuppliesplus.com

THIRD PLACEAlsip Home & Nursery

10255 Wicker Ave (US 41)

St. John, Ind.219.365.0882

20601 S LaGrange RdFrankfort, Ill.

815.469.1044alsipnursery

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO. may 19, 2013 | nwi.com/bestof | 71

[ best ]TIRE STORE

Levin Tire & Auto RepairSeven locations throughout Northwest Indiana.levintirecenter.com

Levin Tire & Service Center has been named Best Tire Store for the fifth consecutive year in The Times Best of the Region contest.

Founded in 1918, Levin Tire is a local, family-owned business that has grown from a small tire repair shop into seven full-service tire and auto repair centers across Lake and Porter counties.

Each location carries a wide selection of all major tire brands at guaranteed everyday low prices, including Goodyear, Michelin, Bridgestone and Kelly. Levin’s service advisors are very knowledgeable and friendly, which makes buying new tires an easy and enjoyable experience.

SECOND PLACEMr. Tiremrtire.com

THIRD PLACEBrown Tire2404 N Calumet AveValparaiso, Ind.219.462.3109browntire.com

[ best ]SHOE

STORE

Shoe Carnivalshoecarnival.com

Anyone looking for a unique shoe buying

experience won’t want to miss Shoe Carnival.

With nearly half a dozen locations in Northwest Indiana and the south Chicago suburbs, Shoe Carnival makes visiting each of its stores a fun

experience. Catchy music and contests draw families,

while a rewards club called Shoe Perks and a wide selection of shoes for every member of the

family attract thrifty parents. Shoe Carnival also reaches out to the community by being an

active partner in the United Way. Its charitable involvement is widespread from corporate campaigns to involvement on the local

level in the communities where its stores are

located.

SECOND PLACEBarney’s Hub

Bootery108 N Main St

Crown Point, Ind.219.663.0463

barneyshubbootery.com

THIRD PLACEFamous

Footwearfamousfootwear.com

THANK YOU

Family Owned & Operated Since 1918

THANK YOULEVIN TIRE #1

FOR VOTING

BEST AUTO REPAIR& BEST TIRE STORE

LEVIN TIRE COUPONLEVIN TIRE COUPON

WALK-INS WELCOMEHAMMOND

6901 Indianapolis Blvd

219-845-9220

VALPARAISO203 Silhavy Rd

219-462-1500

MERRILLVILLE5713 Broadway

219-887-0531HIGHLAND

9500 Indianapolis Blvd.

219-924-1710

HOBART1997 East 37th Ave

219-947-2574

CROWN POINT501 N Main St

219-663-1876

WINFIELD10765 Randolph St

219-662-0270

Latitude® Tour HPStop shorter. Stop safer.• Dual tread compounding increases traction

in both wet and dry conditions

S U V / C R O S S O V E R

LTX® M/S2A popular favorite is even better.• The most proven Light Truck tires for

durability and toughness.

L I G H T T R U C K

PrimacyTM MXV4®

Legendary Ride. Exceptional Warranty.• For the right combination of performance

and luxury to a variety of vehicle types

L U X U R Y P E R F O R M A N C E T I R E

PrimacyTM MXM4®

Legendary Ride. Exceptional Warranty.

• Meeting the demanding standards of the world’s leading luxury car makers

L U X U R Y P E R F O R M A N C E T I R E

Defender™

Save fuel without sacrificing safety or longevity.• Get exceptional grip provided by IntelliSipe Technology

P A S S E N G E R / M I N I V A N

Alignments • Belts/Hoses • Brakes

Shocks/Struts • Batteries

Radiators • Fluid Exchanges

Tire Repair • Heating • A/C

FREE SHUTTLE SERVICE! WE’LL TAKE YOU BACK TO WORK OR HOME WHILE WE WORK ON YOUR VEHICLE!

SINCE 1918 EARNING YOUR TRUST...ONE DAY AT A TIME! All Locations Open Saturday • Open Sunday in Highland

MICHELIN® TIRES ARE BACKED BY OUR PROMISE.

THE MICHELIN PROMISE PLAN™ INCLUDES:30-DAY SATISFACTION GUARANTEE1

3-YEAR FLAT TIRE CHANGING ASSISTANCE1 LIMITED MILEAGE WARRANTY1

1 Certain conditions and limitations apply. See associate in store or visit michelinman.com for complete description and details.

Copyright © 2013 Michelin North America, Inc. All rights reserved.

Buy any set of four new MICHELIN® brand passenger or light truck tires, and get a $70 MasterCard® Reward Card after submission.2

2 See redemption form at participating dealers for complete offer details. Offer expires 4/15/13. Void where

prohibited. The Reward Card cannot be reloaded with additional funds, nor can it be used at an ATM. Card

expires 6 months after issuance. For complete terms, conditions and fees, see the Cardholder Agreement

in your card package. Reward Cards are issued by U.S. Bank, pursuant to a license from MasterCard

International Incorporated. MasterCard is a registered trademark of MasterCard International Incorporated.

MARCH 14 – APRIL 15, 2013

GET A

MASTERCARD® REWARD CARD AFTER SUBMISSION.2

LEVIN TIRE www.levintirecenter.com

HIGHLAND9500 Indianapolis Blvd.

219-924-1710

HOBART1997 East 37th Ave

219-947-2574

CROWN POINT501 N Main St

219-663-1876

HAMMOND6901 Indianapolis Blvd

219-845-9220

VALPARAISO203 Silhavy Rd

219-462-1500

MERRILLVILLE5713 Broadway

219-887-0531

WINFIELD10765 Randolph St

219-662-0270

CALL OR VISIT ANY ONE OF OUR LOCATIONS TODAY!

ALL TIRE PURCHASES INCLUDE FREE ALIGNMENT CHECK & LIFETIME ROTATIONS (MOST VEHICLES)

STAY CONNECTED!www.LevinTireCenter.com

LEVIN TIRE COUPON LEVIN TIRE COUPON

No other discounts apply.With coupon. Most Vehicles. Expires 4/15/13. TQ

$10 OFFANY PURCHASE

OVER $100

LEVIN TIRE COUPON

No other discounts apply. With coupon. Most Vehicles. Expires 4/15/13. T5

$5 OFFBRING US ANY COMPETITOR COUPON & WE’LL GIVE YOU AN EXTRA $5 OFF THEIR DISCOUNT!

TAKE AN ADDITIONAL OIL & FILTER CHANGEWITH 4 TIRE ROTATION

$2495AFTER $10 MAIL-IN REWARD CARDGood with any Premium Valvoline oil change. No other discounts apply. With coupon. Most vehicles. Plus env. Fees. . See store for details. Expires 4/15/13. TA

All Locations Open SaturdayOpen Sunday in Highland

Family Owned & Operated Since 1918

$10 OFFANY PURCHASE

OVER $50No other discounts apply.

With coupon. Most vehicles. Expires 6/15/13. TA-B

$5 OFFOIL & FILTER

CHANGENo other discounts apply. With coupon.

Most vehicles. Plus any fees. Expires 6/15/13. TQ-B

72 | nwi.com/bestof | may 19, 2013 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Shopping

Known for the Trunk Monkey and Extreme Car Makeover promotions, Arnell Chevy-Kia

stocks one of the largest used vehicle selections in Northwest Indiana. “Not only are we a Certified Pre-Owned dealer with both Chevrolet and Kia, but we also guarantee the engine for life,” says internet sales manager Jessica Richa. Upfront pricing is what buyers like best about Arnell. “We don’t play games with our customers,” says Jessica, “leaving you to guess what you qualify for and what you don’t. We price all our new and pre-owned vehicles online as well as a break out of how we can give you such a great price.”

SECOND PLACESchepel Certified

2815 W US 30Merrillville, Ind.219.738.1900schepel.com

THIRD PLACEChristenson Chevrolet

9700 Indianapolis Blvd (US 41)Highland, Ind.219.961.4144

christensonchevy.com

[ best ]USED CAR

DEALER

Arnell Chevy Kia239 Melton Rd

Burns Harbor, Ind.877.284.4445

arnellchevy.com

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855.472.6718 Mon-Thur 9am-8pm

Fri 9am-6pm • Sat 9am-5pm239 Melton Rd. (I-94 & Rt. 20)

Burns Harbor, IN www.arnellchevykia.com

855.472.6718 Mon-Thur 9am-8pm

Fri 9am-6pm • Sat 9am-5pm239 Melton Rd. (I-94 & Rt. 20)

Burns Harbor, IN www.arnellchevykia.com Only 5 minutes from Portage!

www.arnellchevykia.com

voted #1 for Best used

car dealer!

the largest selection of used inventory in Porter county.

730 45th Street • Munster , IN 46321 • 219-924-3300 • www.osni.org

Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeons

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

Voting Period Logo / Element Options for Best of the Region 2013

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

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

Joseph Hecht, MD • General Orthopaedic Care Including Foot and Ankle• Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery• Advanced Technical Training in Mini-Incision Hip and Knee Replacement

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

Sunil Dedhia, MD • Fellowship Trained in Sports Medicine, Arthroscopy and Minimally Invasive Surgery• Specializing in Advanced Reconstruction of the Shoulder and Knee• Workman’s Compensation/Occupational Injuries

Louis Gluek, III, MD • General Orthopaedic Care Including Foot, Ankle, Sports and Arthroscopic Surgery • Advanced Technical Training in Mini-Incision Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery

Nitin Khanna, MD • Fellowship Trained Spine Care Specialist • Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery • Complex Spinal Revision Surgery

Dwight Tyndall, MD • Fellowship Trained Spine Care Specialist• Advanced Spine Techniques• Cervical and Lumbar Revision Surgery

Carla Watson, MD • Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation• Board Certified Spine Specialist

www.schepelbuickgmc.com OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY • 7 DAYS A WEEK

NEW & CERTIFIED USED

3209 W. LINCOLN HIgHWAYM E R R I L L v I L L E , I N • 2 1 9 . 7 6 9 . 6 3 8 1

Dealer YearDealer YearDealer YearDealer YearDealer YearDealer Year of the

2 0 1 3 G M C A C A D I A 2 0 1 3 G M C Y u k o n 2 0 1 3 G M C C A n Y o n

2 0 1 3 G M C t e r r A I n 2 0 1 3 G M C s I e r r A 2 0 1 3 G M C s AvA n A

2 0 1 3 B u I C k v e r A n o

2 0 1 3 B u I C k l A C r o s s e

2 0 1 3 B u I C k r e G A l

2 0 1 3 B u I C k e n C o r e

2 0 1 3 B u I C k e n C l Av e

BUICK • GMC Just 2 miles west

of I-65 on Route 30

in Merrillville!

WE AREPROFESSIONAL GRADE

LuxuRy AS It ShOuLD BE.

Dealer YearDealer YearDealer YearDealer YearDealer YearDealer YearDealer YearDealer YearDealer YearDealer YearDealer YearDealer Yearo r eo r eo r e

Dealer of The Year

2010, 2011& 2012

3rd Year In A Row!!

PLUS...OVER 120 IMMACULATE

PRE-OWNED SCHEPELCERTIFIED VEHICLES

TO CHOOSE FROM!

Shopthe

BeSt!

Best Grocery store& Best caterer

Visit our web site at www.strackandvantil.com

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Top Rated

It is important to know who to trust with your family's health because you want the very best. ® TM

Community Hospital has been named by Healthgrades as one of America's 50 Best Hospitals

– not once, twice, three, four or five times, but SIX times in a row! America's 50 Best Hospitals

are recognized as the top 1% in the nation, having passed the test of time by showing superior

performance and clinical excellence year after year. Community Hospital is the only hospital in

Indiana to achieve this designation for six consecutive years, 2008-2013. Patients can count on

the healthcare professionals of Community Hospital to provide top quality care visit after visit.

Scan this QR code with your smart phone

to watch a video of what it means to be one

of America's 50 Best Hospitals.

HospitalCOMMUNITY

Community Healthcare System®

901 MacArthur Blvd., Munster, Indiana 46321www.comhs.org

Quality Care

Find a physician within the Community Hospital, call 219-836-3477

or toll-free, 1-866-836-3477.

Follow us on Twitter @CHShospitals for

information on classes and updates.

Top Rated

It is important to know who to trust with your family's health because you want the very best. ® TM

Community Hospital has been named by Healthgrades as one of America's 50 Best Hospitals

– not once, twice, three, four or five times, but SIX times in a row! America's 50 Best Hospitals

are recognized as the top 1% in the nation, having passed the test of time by showing superior

performance and clinical excellence year after year. Community Hospital is the only hospital in

Indiana to achieve this designation for six consecutive years, 2008-2013. Patients can count on

the healthcare professionals of Community Hospital to provide top quality care visit after visit.

Scan this QR code with your smart phone

to watch a video of what it means to be one

of America's 50 Best Hospitals.

HospitalCOMMUNITY

Community Healthcare System®

901 MacArthur Blvd., Munster, Indiana 46321www.comhs.org

Quality Care

Find a physician within the Community Hospital, call 219-836-3477

or toll-free, 1-866-836-3477.

Follow us on Twitter @CHShospitals for

information on classes and updates.