In her 33-year journey in the auto industry, Peggy Malave says her philosophy has been rooted in consistency, growth and a deep commitment to the people she serves. From her early days at Lakeshore Ford through its transitions to Bosak Ford and now Graff Ford, she’s built a career in one place while evolving alongside the business.
“What started as a job became a lifelong passion,” she says. “It’s about helping individuals and families find not just a vehicle, but something they can rely on and feel confident in.”
Malave says she tries to bring compassion and care to every interaction. The ultimate goal, she believes, is not just to sell a car, but to treat people the way she’d want to be treated — with honesty, respect and concern for their needs.
“Over the years, this approach has led to lasting relationships, with many customers returning to me five or more times,” she says. “To me, that loyalty is the greatest measure of success.”
Jamica Williams takes great pride in not only providing top-notch service to the members of Tech Credit Union, but also in doing so in a community to which she feels such a deep connection. A native of Gary who volunteers with local organizations including Junior Achievement and the Rotary Club, Williams is especially gratified to earn this distinction while working for an institution that was born and has flourished in the city she loves.
“My journey began with humble roots as an entry-level part-time teller, and through dedication and perseverance, I have grown into my current role as vice president and branch manager,” she says. “As a leader, I deeply believe in the power of relationships with our members and within the communities we serve — particularly the City of Gary, which has shaped me and continues to inspire my commitment every day.”
To that end, she has worked hard in her three-decade career to focus as much on nurturing relationships and offering education as providing day-to-day assistance with deposits and other transactions.
“Tech Credit Union’s vision is to be widely recognized in our communities as the better option, focused on empowering our members to be financially confident,” she says. “That’s why I try to focus on building strong, trust-based relationships from the very first interaction, leading with empathy so even difficult conversations are productive and every member feels heard.”
Gene Novello doesn’t believe in micromanagement. As chief executive of Tech Credit Union, he says his job is to get the right people into the right roles and then watch them flourish.
“My role here isn’t necessarily about knowing everything or being able to perform every duty,” he explains. “It’s about hiring the right people, putting them in position to succeed and supporting them along the way.”
That’s why Novello sees Best CEO/Owner as more of a team accomplishment — and one he couldn’t be prouder of his team at Tech for bringing it home.
“Nothing we do here is achieved without the team working together toward our goals,” he says. “That’s why this recognition reflects the commitment and buy-in from the whole organization.”
Chef Dylan McRae has been voted Best Chef multiple times thanks to his elevated approach to classic cuisine.
“His career has been defined by precision, creativity and consistency — balancing refined technique with bold, unforgettable flavors. Every dish reflects years of dedication to mastering his craft and pushing the standard higher,” said Stacey Mikler, Lucrezia director of operations.
He most enjoys “creating something memorable. It’s about more than just food. It’s about delivering an experience guests talk about long after they leave,” McRae said.
McRae’s experience, dedication and ability to liven things up in the kitchen make all the difference. He takes his win as best chef as “a responsibility to continue raising the bar every single day. Every plate that leaves the kitchen must meet the same high standard—no exceptions.”
With a law career that spans more than 25 years and a background in the business world before that, Brian Less believes he brings a unique perspective to the needs of families with businesses looking to determine the best course of action to transfer their wealth when the time comes.
“I consider every client engagement as an opportunity to help put someone at ease by completing their estate plan in a timely and comprehensive way,” he says. “I enjoy meeting new people and connecting on a personal level with my clients.”
Less believes that sense of caring and personal service shines through in every interaction he and his team share with their clients. And it’s why he believes those clients put their trust in his office at such an important time in their lives.
“We know our services are important and work hard to get it right.”
Focusing almost exclusively on family law since she began practicing in 2019, Kayleen Teufel believes she’s developed a deep understanding to what it takes to help clients through this oft delicate area of the legal profession.
“Family law can be emotional, overwhelming and contentious for clients,” she explains. “As a family attorney, I find myself in the unique position to help clients navigate those difficulties and, hopefully, make it less overwhelming for them.”
Guiding clients through situations such as custody battles, divorces and other high-stress situations has taught Teufel the importance of showing compassion and patience in every interaction. And while it’s not always easy, it has led to some very rewarding moments.
“I find when clients understand and have all their questions answered, they are more empowered in their decision-making and comfortable with the process in general,” she says. “It’s very special to be trusted with a task such as this.”
Rebecca Roseberry can whip up a mean Hennessy Heaven or a solid Money Maker like nobody’s business. But she also believes there’s much more to being a good bartender than just making great drinks.
“You need quick hands and a good memory, but you also have to be able to read the room, stay cool under pressure, exercise good judgment and pay close attention to detail,” she explains. “And most importantly, you have to be sure every guest feels welcome. That really goes a long way.”
Those are lessons that Roseberry has picked up over her more than two decades behind the bar, including the last 3 1/2 years at Kenwood Tap. It’s a job that she says offers a great mix of creativity and connection, allowing her to meet so many different people, many of whom have become dear friends.
“I’ve been blessed with the most amazing people over the years — from bosses to co-workers to customers — and this moment reminds me how special that really is.”
Whether clients are planning for retirement, saving for college for children or grandchildren, or just trying to protect the financial future of the ones they care for the most, Pat Hedge has been helping them at Edward Jones for more than 15 years.
Hedge takes the time to understand exactly what every client is working toward and the level of risk they’re comfortable accepting when investing so he can help them find a good strategic balance as they meet those long-term goals.
At the Strack & Van Til location in Valparaiso, floral designer Tracy Pritchard has become a familiar and trusted presence for customers marking life’s most meaningful moments.
With 14 years in the business — all with Strack & Van Til — Pritchard’s journey began when she was 19 as a flower delivery driver. Today, she spends most of her time in-store, taking orders, creating arrangements and ensuring every detail is just right for each customer.
“Being part of people’s special occasions and making them happy is what makes it all worth it,” Pritchard said. That passion shows in her work, where each arrangement is thoughtfully designed to match the moment, whether it’s a celebration, remembrance or simple gesture.
Known for her love of bright, fun floral designs — especially lilies — Pritchard brings a vibrant, personal touch to everything she creates.
Though her goal when young was to become a lawyer, Jelena Karanovic says her hobby was cutting the hair of friends and family. As she grew older, it became obvious to her that hairstyling was her true calling.
Having worked in the field for 20 years, she believes her clients connect with her because of her dedication and commitment to providing the best service possible.
“I approach every interaction with care and attention to detail, and I think clients recognize the passion and effort I bring to work every day,” says Karanovic. “Their trust and support are what motivate me to continually strive for excellence. It brings me immense satisfaction to know that my efforts are appreciated and valued.”
Stracci Law Group partner Maryam Afshar-Stewart says one of the keys to being successful in injury law is pairing a hands-on, client-centered approach with strong courtroom readiness, which is what Paul Stracci brings to every case he handles.
“Like all of our lawyers, Paul stands out for his hands-on, client-focused approach,” Afshar-Stewart explains. “He addresses each matter individually, with strategies customized to the specific circumstances and goals of the client.”
And while Stracci appreciates the acknowledgment of this honor, Afshar-Stewart says it only motivates him to work even harder on behalf of the firm’s clients.
“This award reinforces a continued responsibility to maintain high standards and keep delivering strong, effective representation in every case.”
Jason Rakos knows that being voted Best Insurance Agent is a group honor for the hard-working team that keeps his State Farm office running so smoothly.
“Carlos, Carlos, Shannon and Jess are the keys to our success,” he says, naming his crew. “Over the past 11 years, we’ve built an environment that’s welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.”
And that goes for staff and customers. Rakos realizes that most people who seek out their insurance agent are dealing with an unforeseen circumstance or otherwise unpleasant situation, which is why he and his team work so hard to be understanding and accommodating.
“We try to be available at all times — in or out of the office,” he says. “And we approach every situation with patience, listening, understanding and more patience. These traits are a must.”
“Matt Roper brings over 22 years of experience behind the bar, making him a true professional in every sense. His expertise goes beyond mixing drinks. He understands balance, flavor and how to create a personalized experience for every guest,” said Lucrezia's Director of Operations Stacey Mikler.
A bartender wears a variety of hats in a typical day, and Roper does it with ease, creating memorable experiences for his guests. “I love connecting with people,” he said.
“Whether it’s crafting the perfect cocktail or recommending something new, creating an atmosphere guests want to be part of is what drives him,” said Mikler.
Attention to detail and consistency are high priorities for Roper, whose philosophy is that “Every drink should be just as exceptional as the last.”
Why did Austin Bonta want to be mayor of Portage? Because he believes that being a good leader is about loving your city and being willing to do the work to make it a better place to live — even when it feels hard.
“I care so much about my city and the people who live in Portage with me,” says Bonta, who was elected in November 2023. “I don't pretend everything about this city is already perfect, but I have a vision of where it needs to go.”
Bonta has been putting in the work to achieve that vision. Collaborating with his team and department heads, he has been finding ways to attract more business investment to Portage, increase in-person community events and start catching up on necessary improvements to the city’s roads, sewer and stormwater infrastructure.
And most of all, he’s been trying hard to keep up with what he feels is one of his most vital responsibilities as mayor — connecting with as many residents as possible.
“I believe that many Portage residents appreciate that I work to be present and available, both online and in person,” he says. “I think it’s important to explain the different things that we're working on in Portage and why we’re going about them the way we are.”
Jonathan Faust has been a lawyer for more than 15 years, and in that time he has tried to focus on the same rule in every client case and interaction.
“I try to look at each client as if I am assisting a family member,” he says. “That’s why we do our best to surpass client goals in each and every case.”
To that end, Faust says he and his team evaluate each case individually, communicate with clients about their goals of the representation and develop strategies to maximize their chances of achieving the most favorable outcome. It seems to still be a winning formula.
“Clients have a lot of choices of who they select to represent them,” Faust says. “And we’re so honored to be able to help people in their times of need.”
Ram Ramos trains a variety of people, and his approach is different for each situation.
Ramos, who moved to the area from the Philippines in 2022, can get loud and intense when he teaches students Muay Thai.
“That’s the time I shout, because it’s so extreme,” he said of the martial art.
But for everyone else, he has a much gentler touch.
“I train people differently,” he says. “I focus on fixing people’s pain. It could be an old person with hip problems or an athlete who struggles with injury. I handle all of them.
“I’m more like a physical therapist so I don’t shout much at people. I make sure that they are being taken care of, and I’m more gentle.”
In her nearly 10 years as a real estate agent, Gina Ziobro has found that it takes honesty, strong communication skills and a genuine commitment to putting your clients first to do the job right.
“I believe the secret to success in this business is simple — work hard, always tell the truth and take care of your clients like they’re family,” she explains. “That’s why I focus on listening carefully, staying proactive, paying attention to every detail and following through on every promise.”
Sticking to that formula is what Ziobro believes has helped her win the trust of so many clients, many of whom have referred their friends and family to her. Those referrals, she says, are a gratifying testament to how she goes about her work, and what she values most.
“I enjoy helping people through one of the biggest transactions of their lives and seeing the excitement when they find the right home or successfully sell theirs,” she says. “At the end of the day, real estate is about trust and earning that trust every single day is what matters most.”
According to Fernando Alanis, patience, adaptability and exceeding client expectations are essential to achieving results and ensuring a positive, stress-free experience for clients.
Alanis said the core of his success lies in his ability to build relationships. “Selling houses is what I do, but it is a relationship-based business,” he said. “I am good at building strong relationships with my clients to build trust.”
Alanis has been in real estate since November 2020, and with Listing Leaders Northwest for about five years, serving Northwest Indiana clients looking to purchase residential, commercial and multi-unit properties.
“It feels great to be recognized in Best of the Region,” said Alanis, expressing his thanks and excitement about being honored this year.
With stores in Crown Point, Schererville and Lowell, Tobacco Island has become a destination for premium cigars and a welcoming lounge experience. At the center of that experience is co-owner Jennifer Buksar, whose customer-first approach reflects the values the business has built in nine years. With a corporate background and years of hands-on experience, Buksar has played a key role in helping create an environment where customers and employees feel valued.
“Customers are always No. 1. That’s something we stand by every day,” Buksar said. That mindset carries throughout Tobacco Island, from the service on the sales floor to the culture behind the scenes.
Tobacco Island also offers an extensive selection of more than 400 brands in its humidor, along with a cigar lounge designed for customers to enjoy the experience.
Chencho Leon has built a strong reputation across Northwest Indiana through more than two decades of creating tattoos. As shop founder, Leon has been tattooing for more than 23 years, helping establish 45th Street Tattoo as a trusted destination for high-quality, custom work. His experience spans a wide range of styles from black and grey to neo-traditional, helping clients bring a variety of ideas to life.
“Dedication to my craft and a desire to always learn. That’s what drives me,” Leon said. “I’m always trying to be better than the day before.”
That mindset is reflected in his evolving body of work, which often features bold colors and detailed animal designs, alongside more traditional styles. His versatility and commitment to growth continue to set him apart in a competitive industry.
