11th annual Good Life Awards recognizes positive people creating community and connection throughout Northern Indiana

The notion of celebrating the good in Northern Indiana that began 17 years ago has led to the creation of the largest library of positive stories, photos, videos, and events in the region. Years ago, GreatNews.Life (GNL) launched an awards event honoring the people who have impacted that mission in a significant way and helping to make that library of good possible.

This year, GNL is honoring those inspiring individuals on October 7 at the 11th annual Good Life Awards. This special ceremony will induct a new class of six people – adding to the current alumni list of 60 leaders – and will recognize them with a custom-crafted, solid steel Good Life Award.

“This award has been one way to recognize positive impact people that embrace the premise of our mission,” said GNL Founder Chris Mahlmann. “This year, with the growth of our team, a common thread is how these recipients embrace, support, and align with our Lifers. This began as my mission, and Natalie and I are blessed that a legion of Lifers live that mission everyday.”

Winners of the Good Life Awards are hand-selected by Mahlmann for embodying the positivity he sees throughout northern Indiana. Mahlmann looks for the qualities that make up the fabric of all the stories GNL covers: hard work, service to others, positive attitudes, and people who are drivers in improving the world around them.

The 11th annual Good Life Awards will be held at the Indiana Welcome Center in Hammond and feature an array of food, conversation, and connection as we all celebrate the people in the community that make good news possible.

Tickets for the Good Life Awards are available and can be purchased online at the event’s page! For information on purchasing a table or sponsorship, contact Kami Tupiak at Kami@GreatNews.Life or (219)707-5023.

2026 Good Life Awards Honorees

Stephanie Krol, Owner of Stephanie Krol Public Relations

“A sharp mind for communications, relentless work ethic, and deep investments in long-term relationships make Stephanie Krol an asset for many Michiana organizations,” Mahlmann said. “The minute I met her, I could see the wheels spinning. Now working with her during our 2 year expansion into Elkhart County, we have had the fortune to be brought into the circle of impact she is making.”

Josh Huddlestun, Mayor of the City of Hobart

“Josh is a Hobart Brickie in spirit, humility, and tenacity. He works tirelessly to leave his city significantly better after his service, and he is willing and able to lead through storms and sunshine because he knows better days are ahead,” Mahlmann said.

Ed Charbonneau, Indiana State Senator

“Ed attended our very first Good Life Awards as an early and enthusiastic supporter of what we do and why we do it. He has been a model of respectful, positive communication and relationships. He stays fast to his commitments and decency,” Mahlmann said.

Annette Loeffler, Administrative Assistant for the City of La Porte Mayor’s Office

“Annette is often referred to as the glue that keeps the City of La Porte together,” Mahlmann said. “She has served as the right hand to city leadership, setting the standard for class, kindness and consistency. She loves her city and is relentless in keeping it positive.”

Phil Taillon, President and CEO of the South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority

“Working with Phil for the better part of the last 15 years has shown how important it is to bring levity and enthusiasm to your work,” Mahlmann said. “Being the right hand to the non-stop Mayor McDermott or the center of tourism for the Region, Phil brings fun to the job.”

Damon Modglin, Editorial Director at GreatNews.Life

“Damon brings a quiet, experienced calm to everyone he works with. His knowledge and trusted guidance are at the heart of developing the next generation of Lifers,” Mahlmann said.

2026 Positive Spark Award Winners

Mary Freda-Flores, Communications Director for the City of Crown Point

Nominated by: Ashley Spargo

“Her unwavering support of GreatNews.Life and the mission we stand for is exactly what this award means to us. Mary has been a loyal supporter since her high school days as a young student intern. Her joining the City of Crown Point made her an integral part of our partnership with them and helping keep that city running to its fullest potential.”

Andrea Ledbetter, Director of Events and Marketing for Navarre Hospitality Group

Nominated by: Kami Tupiak

“She has been such a longtime supporter of GreatNews.Life and of good news in our communities for as long as I’ve been with the company. She has always believed in what we do, supported the stories we tell, and brought so much positivity and genuine care to the people around her.”

Todd Evans, Physical Education Teacher/Department Chair, Coach, Valparaiso High School

Nominated by: Bill Marshall

“Todd over the last few years has had some health issues, one specifically that resulted in a major brain surgery. While going through all of this, Todd has remained steadfast in his role as Teacher and Coach in two programs (football and head baseball coach). Throughout all of this, he also guided Valparaiso Baseball to its first ever State Championship. Most importantly, he is a devoted father and spouse. He works tirelessly as part of the Vice President of the Valparaiso Teachers Union as well as guiding the PE/Health Department at Valparaiso High School.”

Nate Loucks, Development Director at Steiner Homes

Nominated by: Bert Cook

“Nate Loucks is the type of person that just makes other people better. He leads with purpose and serves others tirelessly. He is involved in so many different organizations–State Street Community Church, The Pax Center, The La Porte Community School Corporation School Board, The City of La Porte Board of Zoning Appeals–the list goes on and on. Nate is a tremendous resource to all these groups because he is a trusted advisor, leads with compassion and always puts others first. I believe Nate embodies the Positive Spark Award and appreciate the opportunity to nominate him as such.”

Charles Beard, New Media Journalist at GreatNews.Life

Nominated by: Chris Mahlmann

Mahlmann knew the minute he watched Charles on the field on a cold football night at Andrean High School. He has the work ethic and love for what he is doing that makes him the second announced recipient.

Meg Bonta, Founder of SoundTide Music School

Nominated by: Austin Bonta

“I watched her make such incredible impacts on the lives of so many young people, first as a high school teacher and then as the founder and main violin teacher at SoundTide Music School. Inspiring hundreds of students now to stick with music, successful apply to college, and has served as a mentor for many throughout their adult lives. As I write this, she is up on a zoom call with a recent college graduate who just started her first job of her career in California that Meg started teaching violin over ten years ago.”