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

Charles Beard, New Media Journalist at GreatNews.Life