A Quiet Conversation at the Malverne Chamber Holiday Party

I recently started a new art series where I draw caricatures of myself. On the surface, it’s a way to practice consistency in illustration—something every picture-book artist wrestles with. But it’s become a storytelling tool. A way to talk about my art, work, community, and the people I meet along the way.

Last night, that story took shape at the Malverne Chamber of Commerce holiday party.

My illustration company, Maquina 37 LLC, is one of the main ways I connect with other local businesses. Through events like these, collaborations are born, friendships grow, and community takes shape in very real ways. The Chamber’s holiday party is one of those moments where business owners come together not just to network, but to celebrate the work we’ve all been pouring ourselves into all year.

That said, networking doesn’t come easily to me.

I’m an introvert. Walking into a room full of people and introducing myself can feel daunting and overwhelming. I do it, but it takes energy. I often find myself most at ease not working the room, but sitting quietly, having one meaningful conversation at a time.

That’s exactly how I met Victoria Tiso from Tori T’s Pizza.

We ended up sitting together and talking about family and business. She’s one of the newer business owners in Malverne, and she’s been absolutely rocking it. She is so smart, kind, and genuine.

Victoria owns two pizzerias and travels between them during the week. She spoke honestly about how demanding the work is—prep, operations, staffing, marketing, social media—all of it. Owning even one pizzeria is hard work, and she does it with incredible focus and care.

But what stayed with me most wasn’t her productivity or success.

It was her heart.

She spoke about her employees, many of whom primarily speak Spanish. Through years in the pizza industry, she learned Spanish herself. She helps her employees obtain licenses and certifications, supports them as they continue learning English, and advocates for them—both inside her business and beyond it. She told me she wants them to succeed not only at Tori T’s, but wherever life leads them.

That kind of leadership matters.

She also shared stories that revealed her strength—how she stands up for her employees and supports other local businesses. She is kind, but she is not passive. She is generous, but also deeply capable. That balance is rare and powerful.

I left that conversation feeling grateful for the care she brings into our community.

I started this art series to practice my illustration skills. But moments like this remind me why I tell stories at all.

We need businesses like Tori T’s Pizza. And we need people like Victoria—people who care deeply, lead boldly, and make room for others to grow.

I’m so glad she’s part of Malverne. And I hope her pizzeria continues to be a staple in our community for a very long time.