Valpo Chamber NEWS

July 9, 2008
Valparaiso Community Taskforce Report to Board of Education
The Valparaiso Community Taskforce has made a recommendation for consideration by the Valparaiso Board of Education concerning capital projects that focus on the aging elementary schools. The Public Policy committee of the Chamber has been monitoring this effort and are making the executive summary available to the full membership and encourage our members to read it. Click here for the Executive Summary Report to the Board of Education.
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July 8, 2008
41st Annual Community Improvement Awards Presented July 8

The City of Valparaiso and the Valpo Chamber recently held its the 41th Annual Community Improvement Awards (CIA) to at noon at Strongbow Inn.

The award luncheon, sponsored by Porter, honored 12 local businesses for their commitment and investment in Valparaiso.

Businesses receiving Community Improvement Awards were: Aberdeen Manor Chapel; Cornerstone Appraisal Services; Country Inn & Suites; Fountainhead Pointe; Glendale Medical Center; Heron Woods Restroom at Taltree Arboretum & Gardens; Horizon Bank; Signature Construction; Silhavy Square Retail Center; Taco Bell; Valparaiso Police Department; Valparaiso University Parking Ramp.

These projects join the more than 200 properties that have been recognized since the awards program began. Community Improvement Awards are based on the visual impact of exterior appearance and are judged on the following criteria: enhances the attractiveness of Valparaiso; compatible with the area and environment; creativity/innovation in both design and use of materials; enhances the quality of life and promotes pride in Valparaiso; and makes a commitment to Valparaiso’s future.

In addition, a Special Recognition Award was given to, Valparaiso Department of Parks and Recreation for Butterfly Meadows Park, a project that demonstrates outstanding achievement on its own merit but does not fit the general CIA parameters of eligibility.

The Valparaiso Historic Preservation Commission will also present its Heritage Award for Historic Preservation to Amereco Engineering. This award is given to the owner of a building whose construction or renovation efforts result in significant enhancements reinforcing the historic character of Valparaiso.
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July, 1, 2008
Microsoft Across America Truckin' '08 at Ivy Tech

Plan now to join this mobile event experience on July 17 at the Valparaiso Campus of Ivy Tech Community College for presentations by Microsoft, Hewlett Packard, and motivational speaker Tim Shurr. You will be able to experience new technology first hand with the state-of-the-art Microsoft Across America truck. Co-sponsored by Valpo Chamber, Ivy Tech Community College, Chester, Inc. Information Technologies.
For more information and times, visit www.chestertech.com/msam.
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July 1, 2008
Valpo Chamber to hold 7th Annual Lu-Wow! on August 1
The party like no other! The Valpo Chamber invites you to the largest and most entertaining rooftop party in Porter County! The 2008 LuWow! Rooftop Rendezvous will be held Friday, August 1 atop the Porter County Parking Garage, located at the corner of Napoleon and Monroe Streets, from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Enjoy the island oasis menu created by Sand Creek Country Club, tropical drinks, live music featuring The Rock Doctors, and top it off with a fabulous fireworks display provided by Bada Boom Pyrotechnics Productions, Inc. and sponsored by Ludington Nissan. Join in the fun! Tickets are on sale now for this casual party under the stars where members, spouses, friends, and the community connect! Rain or shine; Must be 21. To RSVP or to obtain further information, contact the Chamber office at (219) 462-1105.

Presenting Sponsor: Porter and REGIONAL Federal Credit Union
Featured Sponsors: Centier, Harris N.A., NIPSCO
Contributing Sponsors: American Family Insurance/M. Masterson Agency; 1st Source Bank; Horizon Bank; The Times
Supporting Sponsors: Comfort Keepers; Haviland-Callan, Inc.; Lakeside Wealth Management, LLC; Scannell Wealth Management Group; Valuation Services, LLC
Fireworks Sponsor: Ludington Nissan
DOWNLOAD TICKET ORDER FORM ORDER TICKETS ONLINE
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June 24, 2008
Valpo Chamber Golf Classic - A "FunDay" for all!
Pictured: Team Wille & Stiener from left: Jake Wagner, Tim Brust, Bill Ferngren, Craig Gall

Over 200 participants gathered for the annual Valpo Chamber FunDay Classic Golf Outing at The Valparaiso Country Club on June 23, and enjoyed a day filled with fun and relaxation. The premier golf event provided members with an opportunity to allow themselves, their business associates, and good friends to a great day of golf. Golfers were treated to opportunities to win great prizes, special games, and 18 holes of golf on a beautiful course. Highlights of the day included:

First Place Foursome: Allegius Federal Credit Union with golfers Tom Newton, Tom Newton, Jr., Jason Schwerdt, and Ken Zagrocki

Runner Up Foursome: Wille & Stiener with golfers Tim Brust, Bill Ferngren, Craig Gall, and Jake Wagner

Skins: Golden Technologies, The Times, Boys & Girls Club of Porter County, NIPSCO

Women’s Longest Drive: Sumer Rex

Men’s Longest Drive: Mark Anleitner

Women’s Longest Putt: Mary Kay Gaboyan

Men’s Longest Putt: Don Asher

Women’s Closest to the Pin: Beth Welter

Men’s Closest to the Pin: Todd Gunderson

Other Winners included: Valpo Chamber 50/50 Drawing – Steve Harris; Shot on the Green – Scott Hazelett; Other prizes and Golf Classic packages – Ben Brown, Dave Hamill, Jim Hannah, Gary Gadd, Owen Smith, Newton Associates, Connie Kubiak, Mark Maassel, Craig Gall, and Dave Lomaka.

The generosity of our sponsors is always outstanding and the FunDay Classic was no different. Thanks to Presenting Sponsors: Porter and Teachers Credit Union; Featured Sponsors: 1st Source Bank, Centier Bank, Harris N.A., Horizon Bank, NIPSCO, REGIONAL Federal Credit Union, and The Times; Contributing Sponsors: Hampton Inn & Suites, Haviland-Callan, Inc., Lakeside Wealth Management, LLC; Monroe Pest Control Co., Inc., North Coast Distributing, Inc.; Peoples Bank; and Scannell Wealth Management Group for their continued support. The Valpo Chamber would also like to thank Hole-in-One Sponsors: Barile Ford/Lincoln/Mercury, Grieger's Motor Sales, Kennedy Buick/Mazda, Paul Sur Pontiac GMC; Hole Sponsors: Allegius Federal Credit Union; Anton Insurance Agency, Chase, Chester, Inc., Comfort Keepers, Design Organization, Douglas, Koeppen & Hurley, Hoeppner Wagner & Evans, Indiana Wesleyan University, Ivy Tech Community College, Lakeshore Surgicare, LLC, Northwestern Mutual Financial Network, Ozinga Brothers Ready Mix, Radio One Communication, Rieth Riley Construction Company, Town & Country Market, Valparaiso University, Walsh & Kelly; In-Kind/Cash Donors: Engravables, Garman Printing, Meridian Title Corp., and NetNITCO Wireless Broadband.
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June 1, 2008
Join the Valpo Chamber "Day of Caring" team - call to volunteer!

The Valpo Chamber is forming a team to participate in United Way's "Day of Caring" on Friday, August 22. The Day of Caring matches corporate volunteers with projects at local non-profit health and human service agencies. The day will start with a kick-off breakfast at Strongbow Inn and then the teams move to their assigned projects. The Valpo Chamber has signed up to assist Opportunity Enterprises with outdoor landscaping and clean up at their new facility located on the shores of Lake Eliza. Additional projects may be added depending on the number of volunteers that sign up for the Valpo Chamber team.

This is a great opportunity to celebrate volunteerism, lend a hand to local organizations, and have fun. If you would like to join the Valpo Chamber team, please contact the Chamber office by Friday, June 13. More information will be provided after determining the number of volunteers.
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June 1, 2008

New Brown Bag Format for Business EDUCATING Business Roundtable

Join the Valpo Chamber for the new Brown Bag Series Business EDUCATING Business Roundtable! On Tuesday, June 17, from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. bring your lunch to the Chamber and enjoy a roundtable business discussion on building successful teams entitled "Getting the Right People on the Bus & in the Right Seat."

BEB Roundtables incorporate an open discussion format where attendees exchange ideas and find solutions to business issues. No reservation required, free to attend. Sponsored by Task Force Tips.
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Since he arrived in Valparaiso in 1988, Dr. Alan Harre has been making a difference. As President of Valparaiso University, Harre has advanced the university immeasurably, yet his contributions extend well beyond the campus to a grateful community.

As he prepares to retire, please join the Porter County Community Foundation and the Valpo Chamber to celebrate the brilliant career of Dr. Alan Harre and support the creation of the Alan and Diane Harre Scholarship Fund for Valparaiso University.

The event will be held Thursday, June 26 at Strongbow Inn. 5:30 p.m. Cocktails/ 6:15 p.m. Dinner/ 7:30 p.m. Tribute. Tickets are $75/per person. Reservations may be made through the Porter County Community Foundation at (219) 465-0294.
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June 1, 2008
Public Policy Forum to discuss drug use in Porter County

The Valpo Chamber Public Policy Forum will now only be held the first Friday of the month due to the State Legislation being out of session.

The next Public Policy Forum will be held Friday, June 6 at 7:30 a.m. in the Valpo Chamber 2nd floor conference room. This Valpo Chamber program is free to attend. No reservations are required.

Porter County Prosecutor Brian Gensel will be the featured speaker, discussing the magnitude of illegal drugs in Porter County. Gensel was elected prosecutor in 2006 and was, at that time the longest serving full-time deputy prosecutor in Porter County history.
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June 1, 2008
Fore! It's time for the Valpo Chamber FunDay Classic!
The Valpo Chamber’s Annual FunDay Golf Classic will be held this year on Monday, June 23, 2008, at the Valparaiso Country Club. Each year, this event is a great way to do business in a relaxed setting as well as have an enjoyable day. With an A.M. and P.M. flight, this is one of the region’s largest golf outings.

FunDay is complete great games to increase your odds. Purchase both your Mulligans and the new Nolan Ryan ticket and give your golf ball a toss! And don’t forget to purchase your putting string to get your foursome three feet closer to the hole. Hit a hole in one on the specified hole and you could even win a car!

Time is running short, so don’t miss your chance to get in on all the golf, games, and good times. Contact Kurt Gillins for more information or to sign up your foursome.

The 2008 Valpo Chamber FunDay Golf Classic would like to thank the following sponsors: Presenting Sponsors: Porter, Teachers Credit Union. Featured Sponsors: Centier Bank; 1^st Source Bank; Harris N.A.; Horizon Bank; NIPSCO; REGIONAL Federal Credit Union; The Times. Contributing Sponsors: Hampton Inn & Suites, Haviland-Callan, Inc., Lakeside Wealth Management, LLC; Monroe Pest Control Co., Inc; North Coast Distributing, Inc.; Peoples Bank; Scannell Wealth Management Group. Thank you for your support!
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May 1, 2008
Focal Point Business Survey results available
In April, members were asked to take the Focal Point Survey of Business Conditions for Northwest Indiana. Purdue University North Central Associate Professor of Business Dan Rutledge has collected and complied the data for Valpo Chamber members. Click here for survey results.
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April 15, 2008
Chamber endorses Entech Innovation Center
On April 15, 2008, the Valpo Chamber Board of Directors announced their support for the Entech Innovation Center, the newly-created business incubator to encourage business start-ups and promote Valparaiso’s economic vitality.

“Building the economic strength of Valparaiso through job creation is a very important aspect of this community’s viability and a very important part of the Chamber’s mission,” states Valpo Chamber Board Chair Dee Haklin.

The Entech Innovation Center, partnering with local universities, technology centers, government, and business leaders, is dedicated to developing ideas and growing businesses by fostering an environment of entrepreneurship, innovation, creativity, and resources to accelerate growth.

Haklin, Vice Chancellor of Ivy Tech Community College, adds, “President Harre of Valparaiso University, Chancellor Dworkin of Purdue University North Central and I are pleased to show local university support for the Entech Innovation Center. We understand the importance of partnering to provide essential business services for entrepreneurs.”

The Entech Innovation Center is the product of planning of the Valparaiso Economic Development Corporation (VEDC) with the support of the City of Valparaiso. “The VEDC Board of Directors is delighted to see this project come to fruition,” says Rex Richards, President of the Valpo Chamber. “Valparaiso is the ideal community.”

Charlie McGill, Executive Director, is developing the plans for the center. The Entech Innovation Center will nurture businesses seeking to commercialize intellectual property by developing the venture during the start-up, early development, and growth stages.

“The Valpo Chamber Board of Directors encourages the community to support this effort,” states Dave Rose, Immediate Past Chairman. “The incubator project is a great tool to support sustained growth in our community.”

For nearly a century, the Greater Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce has been promoting the interests of their members by providing the highest quality information, advocacy, networking opportunities, and member services. Click here to read the resolution in its entirety.
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April 1, 2008
Special Earth Day presentation "Earth Day during the Workday"

Join the Valpo Chamber, City of Valparaiso, Recycling & Waste Reduction District of Porter County, and Design Organization for an informative Earth Day breakfast at 7:30 a.m. at the Valparaiso Country Club. Learn what strides your business can take during the workday to make everyday Earth Day!

Panelists for the presentation will be: Therese Davis, Executive Director of the Recycling & Waste Reduction District of Porter County; Jeff Lewis, Associate at Design Organization; and Bill Oeding, Public Works Director for the City of Valparaiso.

Topics will include waste audits, green strategies for business practice, and city and county green initiatives. A question and answer period will allow you to ask specific questions for your business needs. Attendees are also welcome to share their successful workplace initiatives.

The breakfast is $10.00 per person and hosted by the City of Valparaiso, Design Organization, Recycling & Waste Reduction District of Porter County, and Valpo Chamber.
RSVP by April 15 DOWNLOAD EVENT FLYER REGISTER ONLINE
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April 1, 2008
Focal Point Business Survey
The Valpo Chamber and Purdue University North Central Associate Professor of Business Dan Rutledge are once again conducting the Focal Point Survey of Business Conditions for Northwest Indiana. The Valpo Chamber hopes you will take a few moments to answer this short survey to help provide a picture of local business conditions. Please click on the following link to participate:
www.pnc.edu/faculty/rutledge/survey.html. Thank you for your participation and interest.
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March 17, 2008
Porter County Prosecutor's Office: Don’t be a victim of bad checks

If your business accepts checks, you have likely been a victim of a bad check. Regardless of careful check acceptance procedures and policies, it is still possible that your firm or organization may receive such a check in the future. In these instances, the Porter County Prosecutor's Office is a resource to assist you.

The Porter County Prosecutor's Office has established The Bad Check Restitution Program as a solution to the growing problem of worthless checks in Porter County. The program was created to help in the recovery of losses associated with worthless checks and since the program's start in November of 2004, it has recovered over $220,000. It is available FREE to all victims of bad checks - individuals and businesses. The program operates at NO COST TO BUSINESSES OR TAXPAYERS. It is funded solely through statutory fees paid by the bad check offenders making this unique program totally self-supporting.

If you receive a bad check, make an attempt to notify the check writer of the problem via certified mail and offer a 10-day grace period in which to make good on the check. Not everyone who writes a bad check is a criminal. Mistakes do happen and the problem may have been the result of an oversight. However, if the check writer fails to rectify the situation, you should then proceed with filing a complaint directly with the Porter County Prosecutor's Bad Check Restitution Program.

To satisfy the requirements of the program and avoid going to court, bad check writers must pay full restitution to the victim along with a statutory fee that covers many of the charges enforced by banks. They must also attend a 5-hour intervention class which is an integral part of the success of this program. Ultimately aimed to reduce recidivism, professional counselors focus on more than money management. The curriculum is designed to help offenders recognize the root of their problem and take responsibility for their actions.

The goal of the Bad Check Restitution Program is to form an alliance with the business community to protect against the negative effect bad checks have on our economy. If you or someone you know would like to obtain reporting forms, additional information or just have questions about the program, please contact:

March 12, 2008
INSIGHTS - Candid Conversations with Successful Leaders

In an intimate setting at the Valparaiso Country Club, the Valpo Chamber kicked off its new program “Insights - Candid Conversations with Successful Leaders” with region leader Leigh Morris.

The Valpo Chamber Leadership Development/Community Engagement Committee developed the new programming. “Insights is an exciting new program series designed to give business professionals a unique ‘up close and personal’ look into the personality, skills, and a knowledge of high-impact leaders,” states Joe Ubben, President of BreakAway Performance Group and committee member.

“Exploring the traits and characteristics of the most interesting and successful people allows participants a unique opportunity to learn the process of how they make decisions,” adds attendee Todd Leeth of Hoeppner Wagner & Evans. “This is far different from simply learning the answer to the tough questions. Participants look into how to make decisions in the future.”

“I was very much impressed with Mr. Morris,” remarks Terrie Colosino, of Vogelsang Asset Management. “As a professional who just made a career change, I found his insightfulness and direction to be inspiring. One thing he said really made an impact on me was, ‘If you don’t develop your own vision, someone will develop it for you.’ Encouraging all of us to keep our eyes on our vision by staying focused is good business sense and has obviously served him well in his career.”

John Seibert, Vice President of Opportunity Enterprises, Inc. served as moderator for the event. “The Insights sub-committee did an outstanding job of choosing a leader of significant accomplishment and integrity who was generous and open with his personal and professional story,” states Seibert. “The interplay of questions and responses between the audience and Leigh Morris contributed to a great informal learning environment.”

Morris, the former LaPorte Mayor, past hospital CEO and manufacturing manager, shared experiences and lessons that have sculpted his career and life. Commenting on starting his fifth career at age 73, Morris explained that “each [career] gave new opportunities, new experiences, and new enlightenment.” In January, Governor Mitch Daniels appointed Morris to two of the region’s top economic development posts: Chair of the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority and Executive Director of the Indiana Toll Road.

Morris shared his philosophy with open dialogue and casual conversation. “Leadership has to have a vision, a sense of values, and must have a plan. Having a plan is very important.” Driven to leave a greater positive impact in the world, Morris encourages everyone to get involved and work on “what can be.”

Defining success as “having made a positive difference in the lives of others,” Morris proves this throughout his lifetime of community advocacy.

Two additional “Insights” programs are planned for 2008: May 13, with guest John Zeglis, former CEO of AT&T, and October 14, with guest Dane Miller, founder of Biomet Inc. Persons interested in attending future Insights programs may contact the Valpo Chamber at (219) 462-1105 or visit www.valparaisochamber.org.
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March 4, 2008
MARK YOUR CALENDAR NOW FOR HARRE TRIBUTE JUNE 26
The Valpo Chamber and Porter County Community Foundation will co-sponsor a special tribute for Valparaiso University President Dr. Alan Harre on June 26. Any Chamber member business or individual interested in contributing, sponsorship, or ticket information may contact the Porter County Community Foundation at (219) 465-0284. Harre has announced he will retire from the University in June 2008.
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FEBRUARY 28, 2008
ENVISION THE FUTURE TO BE HELD MARCH 6
Get ready today... to experience tomorrow
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Since 1998, the Valpo Chamber has partnered with Porter County Middle Schools to provide over 1,000 8th grade students with an amazing educational experience called "Envision the Future."

Envision the Future is a simulation game in which students, projecting themselves to age 28, research and identify their career interests through their class curriculum, consider family size (martial status and number of children), and receive a mock checkbook with the monthly income entered for their specific career.

Envision focuses on the monthly costs associated with rent/mortgage, utilities, taxes, insurance, childcare, and other living expenses such as food and clothing. The program also includes military information in the way of earnings and allowances if the student chooses the military as their future option.

The program also includes unexpected events such as unemployment, medical bills, and divorce. Students who go through these unexpected events must also visit an assistance station to seek advice on legal, financial, counseling, or employment education issues.

The 2008 Envision the Future is a Chamber Coalition project between the Valpo, Kouts, and Hebron Chambers. The program is scheduled for Thursday, March 6, at the Porter County Expo Center. For more information about Envision the Future or to volunteer, contact Kurt Gillins at (219) 462-1105.
Envision the Future Presenting Sponsor:
Contributing Sponsors: Centier, Harris N.A., NIPSCO,
REGIONAL Federal Credit Union
In-Kind Donors: Home Mountain Printing; NetNITCO Wireless Broadband;
Porter County Expo Center
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February 28, 2008
NEW PROGRAMMING!
INSIGHTS - Candid Conversations with Successful Leaders

The Valpo Chamber Leadership Development/Community Engagement Committee is excited to begin a new program entitled "INSIGHTS - Candid Conversations with Successful Leaders."

This exciting new program series is designed to give you a unique "up close and personal" look into the personality, skills, and knowledge of high-impact leaders. What were some of their successes and failures along their way? The lively Q&A format allows you to ask the questions most important to you.

The featured guest for the first INSIGHTS will be Leigh Morris, former Mayor, past hospital CEO, manufacturing manager, and community advocate. The moderator will be John Seibert, Vice President, Opportunity Enterprises, Inc.

Join us Tuesday, March 11 at the Valparaiso Country Club to hear the experiences that have sculpted the career and life of one of the Midwest's most successful leaders. $10/Members; $12/Invoiced; $20/Non-members. RSVP by Friday, March 7, seating is limited.

February 1, 2008
GOVERNOR DANIELS CONDUCTS VALPARAISO TOWN HALL MEETING

Governor Mitch Daniels paid a visit to Valparaiso during a Town Hall Meeting on January 31. Held at Valparaiso City Council Chambers, the meeting was standing room only.

Daniels explained his plan for Indiana property tax relief and took questions from the audience.

February 1, 2008
HOST AND CREATOR OF INSIDE INDIANA BUSINESS TELEVISION TO SPEAK AT VEDC ANNUAL MEETING
The host and creator of Inside INdiana Business television, Gerry Dick, will speak on the topic of "Economic Development Trends Statewide" at the Valparaiso Economic Development Corporation's Annual Meeting on February 14 at noon at Strongbow Inn.

Dick also serves as president and managing editor of Grow INdiana Media Ventures, LLC, a diverse media company focused on producing and distributing Indiana business news and information through multiple media channels.

Recognized with an Ernst and Young's prestigious Entrepreneur of the Year Award, Gerry was also honored by the Small Business Administration as its Journalist of the Year.

Seating is limited, please reserve by February 8.
DOWNLOAD EVENT FLYER
REGISTER ONLINE
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February 1, 2008
SOUTH SHORE LEGISLATION HR 1220 GAINS MOMENTUM
The legislation to fund the South Shore extension to the Westlake Corridor, including Valparaiso, has passed three readings in the Indiana House of Representatives. It was amended in a positive way to include some improvements to the Michigan City and South Bend right of way. The legislation is now scheduled to move to the Indiana Senate where it must pass a committee hearing and three readings on the Senate floor.
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February 1, 2008
VALPO CHAMBER MEMBERS... THANK YOU!
The Valpo Chamber Board of Directors and Staff wish to express their personal gratitude for your renewed 2008 membership commitment. We thank you for your help in strengthening our business community by supporting your fellow Chamber member businesses. Thanks to your efforts, we look forward to another prosperous year for the Valparaiso community!
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February 1, 2008
INSIGHTS - Candid Conversations with Successful Leaders COMING SOON!
The Valpo Chamber Leadership Development/Community Engagement Committee is excited to roll out a new program entitled "INSIGHTS - Candid Conversations with Successful Leaders.

This exciting new program series is designed to give you a unique "up close and personal" look into the personality, skills, and knowledge of high-impact leaders. What were some of their successes and failures along the way? The lively Q&A format allows you to ask the questions most important to you.

The featured presenter for the first INSIGHTS will be Leigh Morris, Chairman, NWI Regional Transit Authority and Executive Director, Indiana Toll Road.

Mark your calendar for March 11 and be on the lookout for more information and registration details in the upcoming weeks.
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February 1, 2008
FEBRUARY 1, 2008 is GO RED FOR WOMEN DAY!

Heart disease is the number one killer of women (and men) in America. By wearing red on February 1, you are taking action to raise awareness about this disease. Go Red for Women is a nationally recognized observance.

For the first time, Valparaiso Mayor Jon Costas, has proclaimed this a local observance as well. In fact, he will be reading his proclamation at 10 a.m. on February 1 at City Hall located at 166 W. Lincolnway. Men and women alike will be making a commitment to "Love Your Heart!"

On Friday, February 1, we encourage all to WEAR RED! Banners and window displays in local businesses will help promote this initiative through February 15. Thank you for your willingness to take part!

January 1, 2008
PORTER HOSPITAL RECEIVES APPROVAL FROM PORTER COUNTY PLAN COMMISSION
Porter Hospital received approval by the County Planning Commission to rezone the parcel of land at US 6 and IN 49. This approval will now be sent to the Porter County Commissioners for their January 22 meeting for final approval on the zoning change. This project represents Community Health Systems commitment to build a new state-of-the-art hospital as part of the terms that the county required in the agreement to sell the hospital to Community Health Systems. Porter plans to build a new 225-bed facility at the proposed site which is located between the cities of Valparaiso, Portage, and Chesterton.
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January 1, 2008
SOUTH BEND MEMORIAL GAINS APPROVAL FROM REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
During the December Valparaiso Redevelopment Commission Meeting, the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District requested by South Bend Memorial Hospital was approved following a public hearing. South Bend Memorial plans to construct a 100-bed hospital located at CR 500 and IN 49. This new facility will be South Bend Memorial’s first expansion outside of their current facilities in South Bend.
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January 1, 2008
VALPO CHAMBER RINGS IN NEW YEAR WITH ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
The Greater Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce will host its Annual Membership Meeting luncheon on Thursday, January 17, 2008. This annual recognition program will report Chamber accomplishments and recognize various committees. The luncheon will also feature Valparaiso Mayor Jon Costas' "State of the City" address. Space is limited, so please reserve today to guarantee seating.
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January 1, 2008
CONFERENCE CENTER/SPORTS COMPLEX STUDY AND NEW HOTELS BRING NEW INTEREST IN TOURISM AND CONVENTIONS FOR VALPARAISO
The City of Valparaiso, with the assistance of the Porter County Convention, Recreation & Visitors Commission, will be studying the potential for a small conference center and new sports complex which could be built for VU sporting events as well as host regional amateur sporting events. The city has commissioned a study to look into the economic benefits of a conference center/sports complex.

“There is no question at all that a conference center/sports complex would be a magnet for helping attract more room nights for Porter County hotels and motels with occupancy throughout the entire year,” states Rex Richards, Valpo Chamber President. “Amateur sporting events attract many people and with a possible conference center attached, it could really put Valparaiso and Porter County on the map for event planners in a very big way,” adds Richards.

This new study comes at a time when new hotel properties are opening up in Valparaiso. Country Inn and Suites, located on LaPorte Avenue near the traffic circle, is open and has 59 room with all the amenities that are attractive to the traveling public. The new Holiday Inn Express & Suites, located on Silhavy Road, is also newly opened and has 85 rooms with state of the art amenities. Valparaiso is a growing business center for northwest Indiana in the perfect location for commerce travelers calling on businesses in the entire region.
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January 1, 2008
HAPPY HOLIDAYS AT THE VALPO CHAMBER
Spreading the holiday cheer from left:
Current board member and Special Events Division Chair Jim Fitzer, NIPSCO; Irene Malasto; and Art Malasto, 1971 Chairman of the Board, 1989 Distinguished Community Leader, and lifetime chamber member.

Wishing you every happiness this holiday season, the Valpo Chamber would like to thank all of our members for their continued support and we look forward to strengthening our relationship in the coming year!

Thank you for joining us at our Holiday Open House on December 6. We hope you had a chance to relax and enjoy the evening with wonderful hors d'ouevres from chamber member Cafe Elite & Catering of Michigan City. Decked for the holiday season, our second floor conference rooms proved to be a great place to connect with friends and associates and exchange holiday tidings.

The first open house since 2004, we look forward to this event once again becoming a holiday tradition for our membership. Have a Happy (and safe) New Year!
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January 1, 2008
VALPO CHAMBER PUBLICATION WINS GOLD MARCOM AWARD

The Valpo Chamber 2007-08 Membership Directory and Community Resource Guide recently won a Gold Marcom Award from the international competition that recognizes creative achievement by marketing and communication professionals. There were over 5,000 entries from throughout the United States and several foreign countries in the 2007 competition.

MarCom Awards are administered and judged by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals, an international organization consisting of several thousand marketing, communication, advertising, public relations, media production and free-lance professionals.

The 2007-2008 directory was designed by chamber member Morse & Company Advertising Marketing Communications, Inc. of Michigan City. This is the second award Morse & Company has won designing a publication for the Valpo Chamber. The 2006 directory, designed by Morse & Company, won a silver Davey Award.

Morse & Company Advertising Communications, Inc. is located at 631 Pine Street, Michigan City, IN and is a full-service advertising and marketing agency offering creative direction, press agentry, strategic planning, cutting-edge designs and more. Morse & Company can be reached at www.morseandcompany.com or 219-879-1223.
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January 1, 2008
PUBLIC POLICY BRIEFING RECAP
At the December meeting of the Valpo Chamber Public Policy Committee, Porter County Tourism Director, Lorelei Weimer briefed attendees on the efforts to promote tourism throughout northern Indiana. Weimer indicated that Porter County is a participant and leader in a cooperative organization of tourism bureaus that span from Porter County to the eastern boundary of Indiana.

The purpose of their organization is to promote northern Indiana as a means of encouraging tourism and promotion of important tourist attractions and destination facilities in northern Indiana. The attendees also heard the results from the Blue Ribbon Panel commissioned by Governor Daniels regarding efforts to reduce property taxes. Rex Richards, Valpo Chamber President, reviewed the recommendations developed by the state's study which was chaired by the current Chief Justice of the Indiana Supreme Court, Randall T. Shepard, and former Indiana Governor, Joe Kernan.

County Councilman Mike Bucko reviewed the actions taken by the Northwest Indiana Regional Planning Commission which voted to support the efforts in Indianapolis of the State Legislature to find a means to procure $350 million local funding for the expansion of the Westlake Corridor which is the expansion of the South Shore commuter line to Valparaiso and Lowell.

The next Public Policy Forum will be Friday, January 4 at the Chamber office, 162 W. Lincolnway. Speakers will be Indiana Senator Ed Charbonneau and State Representative Ed Soliday. All Chamber members are welcome and invited to attend. Public Policy Forums are free to attend; no reservations
required.
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