Meet the Staff

Alona Alferez, RDH: Registered Dental Hygienist

Born and raised in the Philippines, Alona graduated from College of Lake County's Dental Hygiene Program in 2006. Shortly after, she joined the Winning Smile Dental Group team. The patients are her favorite part of her job; their life stories and experiences. Alona enjoys traveling, eating out and working out. In her spare time, she loves spending time with her husband and 2 kids.

Jo Ann Velastegui, RDA: Registered Dental Assistant

Jo Ann graduated from North Park University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree. After a few years, she returned to Northeastern University, where she completed her Master's Degree in Counseling. At present, Jo Ann enjoys working a few days with Dr. Reese as a dental assistant. She enjoys every aspect of dentistry. The rest of her time she works as a Licensed Rehab Counselor helping individuals with various physical disabilities and mental disorders. Her life is filled with the joy of helping people in all areas of life. She considers herself very lucky to be able to enjoy two different professions.

Lydia: Administrative Assistant

I have been working in dentistry for over 20 years. I have worked in the clinical department as well as the administrative assistant.One of the things I enjoy most about dentistry is to see how changing a patients smile transforms their lives.In my spare time I like to cook for my family and watch movies.

Cindy Holtfreter, RDH: Registered Dental Hygienist

Cindy chose Dental Hygiene from the very beginning graduating from Southern Illinois University over 30 years with an Associates Degree in Dental Hygiene and a Bachelor’s Degree in Healthcare Management. She spent the first 12 years in a periodontal practice and then brought her periodontal experience, passion for prevention and compassion in care to family dentistry.
Cindy finds joy teaching, coaching, reading, swimming, golfing, going to movies, traveling and spending quality time with friends and family

Rebekah W: Dental Assistant

Rebekah is a dental assistant and loves that the focus of the practice is making the quality of care towards patients a priority. She likes how working in the dental field allows her to always learn something new. When she is not at work she enjoys traveling, spending time at the gym and trying new recipes and food.