Winter-2006

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Valpo Magazine Winter 2006 

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Contents 

Volume 6 Issue 1 Winter 2006 

Feature Story 5 

Reinventing Valparaiso 

Through Redevelopment 

Salute To Leadership 8 

Valparaiso Chamber honors 

Douglas Pierce, Dr. John R. Poncher 

and Lorrie Woycik. 

WINTER 2006 

A publication of the Greater Valparaiso Chamber of 

Commerce. 162 W. Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383. 

Phone (219) 462-1105 Fax: (219) 462-5710. 

gvcc@valparaisochamber.org 

www.connecttovalpo.com 

www.valparaisochamber.org 

GREATER VALPARAISO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 

Deb Butterfield, President 

Amy Page, Vice President, Member Services 

Ashli Bowen, Marketing & Communications Specialist 

Julie Gaskell, Administrative Assistant 

Century and Half 10 

Century Business Awards 

Ask An Expert 16 

This new column provides expert 

answers to your business questions. 

Calendar of Events 


Danielle Oeding, Advertising & Membership Sales 

Renee Egan, Bookkeeper 

Barb Grimsgard, Special Events 

Debbie Pulley, Support Staff 

VALPARAISO MAGAZINE 

Publisher: The Greater Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce 

Design and Production: Griffin Marketing Services, Inc. 

Feature and Photos: Aran Kessler Photo Imaging 

Editor: Griffin Marketing Services, Inc. 

Printing: Home Mountain Printing 

Mailing: Flanagin’s Bulk Mail Service 

Your Chamber At 20 

Work For You 

A recap of chamber networking events. 

Sections 

New Chamber Members 12 

Around Town 15 

Business Spotlight 19 

Editorial Wrap-up 22 

VALPARAISO MAGAZINE is published quarterly by 

the Greater Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce, P.O. 

Box 330, Valparaiso, IN 46384-0330. To submit 

“Around Town” entries, call 219-462-1105 or send 

to: gvcc@valparaisochamber.org, Attn: Editor. 

For advertising inquiries, call 462-1105. 

VALPARAISO MAGAZINE circulates 16,500 copies 

per issue by direct mail to all businesses, and, on a 

rotating basis, to most households in the 46383, 

46384 and 46385 zip codes. Subscriptions may be 

purchased at an annual rate of $12, for those 

outside our regular circulation. 


3


4 Valpo Magazine Winter 2006 ww


Balancing Growth and Creating a 

Unified Dynamic Image for the City 

This article is the first in a series in which 

Valparaiso Magazine will examine the role 

redevelopment plays in the growth of a 

community. In upcoming issues we will more 

thoroughly explore specific redevelopment 

projects, examine the human side of the story 

and what happens when your business is 

targeted for relocation, and envision what Valpo 

might look like in 25 years. 

“Build it and they will come,” goes the old 

adage, and it doesn’t take a particularly astute 

observer of the city of Valparaiso to 

understand the veracity of that statement. 

Here is a community that exudes charm, that 

teems with friendly people, that is ideally 

located, that has a wonderful school system, 

that possesses a vibrant collegiate culture, that 

is clean and safe and dynamic, that . . . well 

the list goes on and on. So, it shouldn’t be 

surprising that those things that keep people 

Redevelopment Commission President 

Mike Baird reviews concepts for Eastgate 

with interested parties. 

here also attract others looking for the 

same values and amenities. That’s how 

communities grow and, quite simply, a 

healthy city is a growing city – but only if 

growth is planned and controlled. 

“Managing growth is complex. It takes a 

clear vision, innovation, and collaboration,” 

says Chamber and VEDC President Deb 

Butterfield. “You need great ideas, but you 

also have to be realistic about what it takes to 

implement change. Every time we need to 

expand a road because of increased traffic 

flow, we have to call NIPSCO to move poles 

and utilities. You don’t want to do that more 

than once.” 

Today systemic and logical growth hinges 

on two concepts: development and redevelopment. 

The former focuses on moving 

the boundaries of a community outward and 

converting green fields to business or 

industrial centers. The latter involves using 

resources already in place to redesign, redefine 

and reenergize existing sites to create new 

opportunities. Each plays a vital and viable 

role, and the challenge is striking the balance 

between these two separate, but related, 

engines of progress. 

Redevelopment was initially created as a 

remedy for urban deterioration. It provides 

ideas and resources for renewing areas 

devastated by the loss of industries and 

commercial businesses. It is a way to reclaim 

abandoned buildings and brownfields left in 

the wake of business relocations and/or urban 

sprawl that takes vital retail shoppers out of 

downtown areas to malls often located on the 

outskirts of town. 

Redevelopment identifies specific projects 

and then creates resources to revitalize the 

sites, create jobs, attract new businesses, and 

revitalize the business climate. Funds are 

raised through the sale of bonds or tax 

increment financing (TIF) which diverts 

tax revenues from increased assessed valuation 

to the redevelopment agency. Local redevelopment 

agencies also have the power of 

eminent domain to “condemn” property if 

necessary to facilitate renewal. 

“Redevelopment is very significant 

because it shows that we highly value what we 

currently have in place and that we are willing 

to reinvest and take care of it,” says Mayor Jon 

Costas. “The worst thing you can do to a city 

is to let existing residential and commercial 

areas deteriorate.” 

He points out that redevelopment is a 

broadly encompassing concept that spans the 

spectrum from “simple” infrastructure 

improvements to visionary strategic planning 

that literally changes the environment and 

character of a city. “We have to think about 

the impact of our ideas for the long term. We 

have to imagine a city even better than the 

one we live in today and then make it 

happen,” he says. “Short term thinking just 

won’t work.” 

“(Redevelopment) keeps the heart and 

soul of the city intact. It’s a less expensive way 

to serve the city’s needs through existing 

infrastructure,” explains Stu Summers, 

Executive Director of the Valparaiso 

06 www.connecttovalpo.com 

5


What Goes Around 

Comes Around 

Anyone who has ever driven through 

England was probably a bit bewildered the 

first time he or she merged with traffic into 

the very European invention known as the 

roundabout. But one time around and 

through certainly yielded the response, 

“Gee, that was easy.” 

When city officials examined alternatives 

for dealing with traffic problems at the 

“triangle” on East Lincolnway, the first 

ideas were fairly traditional in nature. 

Engineers from several companies 

proposed sophisticated new traffic 

light systems that would be 

controlled by computer. 

The ideas were not only 

ho-hum, but also expensive, 

and few believed they 

would really 

relieve the 

congestion and 

confusion in the 

long run. 

“Then a researcher 

from England proposed a 

roundabout,” explains Stu 

Summers, Executive 

Director of the Valparaiso 

Redevelopment Commission. 

A roundabout is a circular 

intersection. Rather than having 

two or more stoplight systems, 

roundabouts bring together conflicting 

and converging traffic streams and 

allow the cars to safely merge, traverse, 

and exit the roundabout. Drivers 

approaching a roundabout must slow to 

a speed that will allow them to interact 

with other users. This makes them safer 

and allows for a virtual continual flow of 

traffic. In a study of eleven roundabouts 

in the United States that replaced 

conventional intersections, accidents 

were reduced by as much as 51% and 

injuries decreased by 73%. 

“We loved the idea. It was more 

effective, provided greater safety, and 

was less expensive ($1.5 million versus 

$4 million for a new signaling system),” 

Summers points out. “But what was best 

is that it was different.” 

Different indeed, the new roundabout, 

which is scheduled for construction this 

year, will serve as the catalyst for a 

complete revitalization of the Eastgate 

area, making it the centerpiece of a 

renewed destination. 

6 

Economic Redevelopment Commission. 

“It’s often more environmentally friendly, 

practical, and keeps the core of the 

city healthy.” 

While redevelopment has proven effective 

in urban areas reeling from blight and flight, 

cities without problems of this magnitude – 

like Valparaiso – can use the concept not only 

to preserve and renew important community 

assets, but also to integrate these ideas into a 

more comprehensive plan that includes 

new development. 

“It’s sometimes hard to separate where 

development ends and redevelopment begins, 

because the two are really attempting to 

do the same thing: make our city a better 

place,” says Mike Baird, Senior Vice President 

of Mercantile Bank and President of the 

Valparaiso Redevelopment Commission. 

“Improvements in infrastructure that extend 

to the east Lincolnway area, for example, 

also enhance downtown, and vice versa. So, 

it takes a collaborative, coordinated effort 

from both the public and private sectors to 

ensure success.” 

“In some respects, redevelopment is easier 

because we’re working with something that is 

already in place. In other respects, it’s harder 

because we’re working 

with something already 

in place,” says Jim 

Jorgensen, local attorney 

who served as 

chairperson of an 

implementation committee 

for the city’s 

Downtown Hyett 

Palma Study, and 

currently serves as 

Chairman of the 

Valparaiso Economic 

Development 

Corporation. “Just like 

it’s sometimes easier to 

rebuild a home than 

to remodel it, we 

have to balance our 

efforts to the best 

long-term interest of 

the community.” 

Whether redevelopment 

is easier or harder, 

it’s still critically important, 

says Summers. He 

points out that most 

people can name several 

cities that urban sprawl 

has left in the dust. He 

doesn’t want that to 

EQUAL HOUSING 

L E N D E R 

happen in Valparaiso, and a comprehensive 

redevelopment plan is the way to prevent it. 

“By setting high standards, being creative, 

being fiscally responsible and establishing a 

process that gets the public involved, we can be 

a model for the rest of the region.” 

To that end, during the last 10 years or so, 

the city has commissioned and/or conducted 

several studies to generate discussion and brainstorming 

on the best ideas for managing 

Valpo’s growth. These studies continue to be 

examined and revised by a coalition of public 

and private sector participants including city 

government, the Redevelopment Commission, 

the Valparaiso Economic Development 

Corporation, property owners, private citizens, 

volunteers and, of course, the Greater 

Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce. 

“A lot of different areas were being studied 

on an individual basis,” says Butterfield. 

“We (the Chamber) really pushed for a 

comprehensive plan so that as resources 

became available, or opportunities came along, 

we would have a big picture and be able to take 

advantage. From our perspective, you couldn’t 

go halfway. It may take more upfront money, 

but not looking at things in totality just wouldn’t 

work and would cost more in the long run.” 

“Success usually comes to 

those who are too busy 

to be looking for it.” 

- HENRY DAVID THOREAU 

At Mercantile Bank, we take your success 

seriously. Whether your needs are 

business or personal, you will enjoy a 

personal relationship with financial 

experts who understand your needs and 

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them. Mercantile is recognized for its 

leading business lending and wealth 

management services and works to 

ensure the best solutions for your 

personal banking needs as well. 

As a member of the Harris group of 

companies, Mercantile is proud to offer 

enhanced service and world class products 

in each of the communities it serves. To 

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For Business Banking service, contact Dale 

Clapp at (219) 852-3365. For Wealth 

Management services, contact Rick 

Schumacher at (219) 933-3810. 

MEMBER 

FDIC 


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06 

That “big picture” today initially targets 

four specific areas: downtown, the Sturdy 

Road LaPorte Avenue “triangle” on east 

Lincolnway, North Calumet (specifically the 

former County Seat Plaza), and the Vale Park 

Road extension. 

But what began as, perhaps, a 

problem-solving mission has evolved into 

a real strategic envisioning process that has 

energized the community toward more 

exciting ideas. The goals now are not just to 

fix what needs fixing, but to create a whole 

new environment that encompasses the entire 

community and helps create a unified, 

dynamic image for the city. 

Take, for example, how the thought 

processes evolved when officials examined the 

problems on East Lincolnway. 

“It started out as a road and traffic issue at 

the triangle where LaPorte and Sturdy roads 

converge with East Lincolnway,” Jorgensen 

explains. “But some students from Ball State 

brought in sketches of what it could look like, 

and we suddenly realized there was a great 

opportunity here to do something special, to 

create a real statement.” 

Thus was born the Eastgate project, not 

just new traffic lights and road widening, but 

the creation of a “gateway” into the city that 

takes advantage of the proximity to Valparaiso 

University. This plan explores the creation of 

a student village with restaurants and retail 

stores, a University townhouse community, a 

retirement community, other free-standing 

retail concepts and a “roundabout” (see 

sidebar) to enhance traffic flow. 


Similar visionary thinking is taking place 

regarding downtown and north of the city on 

Calumet Avenue. For example, in addition to 

a new downtown streetscape that includes 

charming sidewalk paving and new streetlights, 

way-finding signage and pedestrian-friendly 

amenities, plans are in the works for a possible 

in-city transit system. Additionally, the South 

Shore has identified Valparaiso as a key 

location in its West Lake Corridor project, an 

eventuality that would dramatically increase 

the city’s appeal. 

“Imagine if the South Shore built a 

station down where the train used to stop, 

near the Franklin House,” Mayor Costas says. 

“Think of the cluster of development that 

would spur just in that corner of the city.” 

The North Calumet corridor will also be 

reinvented, adhering to an overall plan that 

“By setting high standards, being creative, being 

fiscally responsible and establishing a process that gets the public 

involved, we can be a model for the rest of the region.” -Stu Summers 

will enhance and unify it with the entire 

Valparaiso community. Baird pointed out 

how the planning process there helped shape 

the Commission’s thinking on the Vale Park 

Road extension. “First of all, we’re not going 

to please all the people all the time. Frankly, 

there are some folks who want the city to stay 

as it is. Our perspective is that it’s important 

to listen to citizens,” he says. “The Vale Park 

Road extension evolved from merely a 

road through a neighborhood to a beautiful 

parkway because of the concerns and 

involvement of people who live there and who 

had ideas that greatly enhanced the project.” 

“This is redevelopment at its best,” 

Mayor Costas says. “Symbiotic working 

relationships (see sidebar); great people with 

great ideas; unity and a 

sense of purpose; and a 

focus on getting things 

done. It’s an exciting 

time to be involved 

in the evolution of 

this city.” 

For more information 

on redevelopment visit 


Getting It Together: How Does 

This City Get So Many People 

On The Same Page? 

Community redevelopment is a daunting 

challenge, requiring not only vision and 

commitment, but also a collaborative spirit 

that, let’s face it, isn’t always easy to attain 

or maintain. But observe what is happening 

here – through two administrations, by the 

way – and you have to be impressed. 

Jim Jorgensen, a local attorney who 

chaired a comprehensive city planning 

process, credits former Mayor David 

Butterfield with setting the tone. “Dave 

was a consummate partnership builder, 

there’s no better way to say it. Then 

(current mayor) Jon Costas just took 

that and expanded on it.” 

Mayor Costas generally kept the 

Redevelopment Commission team intact 

because he respected the members and 

understood that this type of planning long 

outlives most administrations. “We have 

to look at solving problems for thirty to 

fifty years, not ten to fifteen,” he said. 

“I won’t dictate what needs to be done. 

We focus on getting things accomplished 

and don’t let artificial things like politics 

get in the way.” 

“I think we have such a unique and 

wonderful community, and the people 

that participate in this planning believe 

that too,” says Mike Baird, President of the 

Redevelopment Commission. “I sincerely 

believe that everyone is interested only in 

what is best for the community. It doesn’t 

mean we don’t disagree, but our perspective 

is always what we can do to provide the 

widest possible positive impact for the 

most citizens.” 

Deb Butterfield, President of the 

Greater Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce 

and the Valparaiso Economic Development 

Corporation believes that frequent and 

open communications with constituencies 

is the primary reason for successful 

collaboration, “Our (Chamber) members 

have to feel that they have a voice in what 

is happening in their community. So, we 

act as a catalyst to bring issues to them. 

We are not redevelopment experts, but we 

recognize the need to keep our eye on the 

ball and to involve the entire community.” 

7


Salute To Leadership 

LO 

200 

On January 14, 2006, at its annual “Salute to Leadership” dinner the Valpo Chamber honored Douglas 

Pierce as the 21st recipient of the Distinguished Community Leader Award and Dr. John R. 

Poncher and Lorrie Woycik as recipients of the 2005 Valpo Chamber Legacy of Service Award. 

DOUGLAS PIERCE 

2005 Distinguished Community Leader 

The Distinguished Community Leader 

award is given to an individual each year within the 

community who demonstrates a leadership role, is 

successful in promoting and developing business 

and industry, is involved and contributes to the 

community, has a general reputation among the 

community business leaders and enhances the quality of life in our 

community on a sustained basis. 

Born and raised in Valparaiso, Doug Pierce is an entrepreneur, 

reputable community leader and compassionate volunteer and honored 

as this year’s Distinguished Community Leader. 

Upon graduating from Valparaiso High School, Doug Pierce 

received an Architectural Degree at University of Cincinnati. In 1971, 

after serving two years in the U.S. Army, he established Design 

Organization, Inc. (DO) an architectural, design and space planning 

firm. Celebrating 34 years, DO has received numerous awards and has 

been instrumental in local projects, like Valparaiso University’s GeoMet 

Building and Ivy State Tech College Region 1, Valparaiso Campus. 

Currently retired, Doug proudly and accurately 

promotes his job title as “Community 

Member.” He was a founding member and first president of 

Porter County Arts Commission; President of Porter County Mental 

Health Association; member of the Valparaiso Community Schools’ 

Curriculum Advisory Panel and the Valparaiso Chamber Board. In the 

1980’s, Doug was selected by County Commissions to represent Porter 

County at the Northern Indiana Health Systems Agency serving as 

Secretary for two terms and Treasurer for one term; he was selected by 

the Governor to represent Northern Indiana in state level health care 

planning strategies; served as a surrogate parent under Indiana Rule S-1 

and oversaw the academic scheduling for children at Shultz-Lewis home; 

and chaired the Rotary Committee for community development where 

he initiated the idea of the original south Washington Street “Gate to the 

City” and developed the first “East Gate” plan for east Lincolnway. In 

the 90’s he organized the Central Neighborhood Association to preserve 

“the front porch” character of old neighborhoods, spawning the Banta 

Neighborhood Organization; he organized the Valparaiso Reclamation 

Foundation, a 501c3 Corporation to save residential “at risk” structures; 

served as President of the Valparaiso Parks Foundation; and member of 

the Northview Elementary Curriculum Review Committee. In the 

2000’s Doug co-chaired the Veteran’s and Volunteer Memorial project; 

was an active participant in the Hyatt-Palma Study for downtown 

building and business owners; and was a team member, under City 

Planner Craig Phillip’s direction, to update the downtown building and 

design ordinance. 

Doug is supported, encouraged, and helped by his wife, Cindi, 

daughter, Catherine, and son, Andrew. 

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DR. JOHN R. PONCHER 

2005 Legacy of Service 

“Valparaiso 

truly is my 

town,” explains Dr. 

John R. Poncher as he 

refers back to the mid 

1800’s when his family 

first decided to make 

Valparaiso home. Ask any lifelong Valparaiso 

resident and they would surely agree. 

Practicing pediatrics for four generations, Dr. 

Poncher is an icon in Valparaiso’s medical 

community. A child advocate and member of 

the American Academy of Pediatrics, he has a 

passion for children’s health. Dr. Poncher is 

a graduate of Wabash University, Valparaiso 

University and Indiana University Medical 

School and served a four-year stint in the U.S. 

Navy. His professional affiliations include 

partner at Glendale Medical Center from 

1967-2002, founder of Associated 

Pediatricians in 1969 and co-initiator of the 

Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Porter 

Memorial Hospital. 

Even today, as a “retiree,” (which he is far 

from in true definition) Dr. Poncher has given 

back to the community by wholeheartedly 

volunteering his time and expertise. His 

financial and social dedication to Hilltop 

Community Health Center, a state-funded 

center, includes serving on the board and 

providing free healthcare every Friday for the 

past four years. In 2004, the Indiana State 

Medical Association awarded him the 

Physician Community Service Award for his 

efforts at Hilltop. 

Dr. Poncher serves on the Porter County 

Special Education Cooperative’s Advisory 

Board; Board of Directors - Children’s 

Memorial Hospital Community Physicians 

Association; and Board of Directors – Fifth 

Third Corporation, Northern Division. 

Through all the awards and recognitions, 

Poncher remains a grounded individual who 

attributes his accomplishments to those 

around him. The doctor and his wife, Gwen, 

currently reside in Valparaiso. They have 4 

children and 6 grandchildren. 

Valpopourri 

The first church established was 

First Baptist Church in 1837. 

8 Valpo Magazine Winter 2006 

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LORRIE WOYCIK 

2005 Legacy of Service 

Lorrie Woycik, a native 

of New York came 

to Valparaiso to attend 

Valparaiso University where 

she earned her bachelor’s 

degree in 1952 and 

received her master’s in 

Special Education from 

St. Mary’s College, Notre 

Dame in 1966. Her humanitarian spirit, 

devotion to community service, and advocacy 

for children with special needs is eloquently 

illustrated in her life’s work. 

Her “lifelong love” began in 1957 when 

she was asked to teach at the Vale Day School 

(now Opportunity Enterprises), a school 

dedicated to those children who were denied 

public schooling. “I was hooked the first day 

and have led a life of joy and blessings ever 

since!” Lorrie taught for 39 years and 

continues to be involved with “her kids” 

through Special Olympics as both Porter 

County Coordinator and Outreach Director. 

She assisted Harley Snyder in co-chairing the 

expansion of Opportunity Enterprises, 

serves on Opportunity Enterprises’ board, 

and assists with the Gala silent auction. 

In addition, she is serving in her 12th year on 

the Valparaiso Community School Board; 

volunteers at the high school’s security door; 

and is a member of Kiwanis. She actively 

serves whenever and wherever she is 

needed whether with Ivy Tech, Relay for Life, 

Breast Cancer Walk, Elvis Fantasy Fest, 

Building Together and everything in 

between. 

Lorrie also writes a weekly 

column for the “Neighbors” section 

of the Post-Tribune because she “believes 

in learning the good 

about others.” 

“Most people equate 

success with big houses, 

fancy cars, bulging bank 

accounts and prestige. 

I humbly suggest that 

they have it all wrong – 

my success is from hugs, 

“I love you Miss Lorrie,” 

caring friends and a 

husband who lets me 

be me!” 

Lorrie Woycik and 

her husband Barney have 

three children (Cheryl, Mark and Carol) and 

7 grandchildren. 

Valpopourri 

In Spanish, Valparaiso means 

“Vale of Paradise”. 

di, 

06 


9


Governor’s Century and Half 

Century Business Awards 2005 

Governor Mitch Daniels joined Lt. 

Governor Becky Skillman and 

Secretary of Commerce Patricia R. 

Miller at the Statehouse on November 

9, 2005 to honor 91 Indiana 

businesses at the annual Century and 

Half Century Business Awards 

ceremony. The Governor’s Century 

and Half Century Business Awards 

honor Indiana businesses that have 

remained in operation for 100 or 50 

years and more and have also 

demonstrated a history of community 

service. Nominated by individuals or 

organizations within the same 

community, Indiana’s well-established 

companies are honored for their 

outstanding contributions to the 

economic growth and prosperity of 

the state. 

The Valpo Chamber congratulates 

the following recipients: 

Century Awards 

The Pangere Corporation, currently in its 

third generation of family ownership, was 

founded 100 years ago by Greek immigrant 

John Pangere as an industrial painting and 

sheeting contracting company. Company 

president, since 1972, Steve Pangere is legally 

blind but, in spite of this disability, has helped 

propel the company into the 21st century by 

expanding upon the foundation of what John 

built and turning The Pangere Corporation 

into a full-service construction company. 

The business’ commitment to the community 

of Gary is evident in its many contributions 

to various local causes and 

charitable organizations. 

‘Dodrill’s’ Valparaiso Plumbing Company, 

Inc. is a 119 year-old company, originally 

founded and owned by Lyman Dean as 

‘Dean’s’ Valparaiso Plumbing Co. Roger 

Dodrill, Sr. joined the company in 1952 and 

eventually became owner of the company. 

The company’s community service efforts 

include donations to the Rotary Club, the 

Boy Scouts and membership in several 

community based organizations. 

James H. McGill established the McGill 

Manufacturing Company in Valparaiso in 

1905. After dabbling in everything from 

electrical components manufacturing to 

automobile carburetors and laxatives, 

McGill’s eventually found its niche in the 

ball-bearing manufacturing business. Today, 

with four product patents, McGill’s is a 

global leader in the business that also supplies 

precision bearings for US military, naval and 

space equipment. Though now owned by 

Emerson Power Transmission, the company is 

still a major competitor in the industry. 

McGill’s community service includes 

donations to numerous area schools, youth 

clubs, Valparaiso University and the American 

Cancer Society. 

The Govern 

Business Aw 

remained in op 

have also demo 

Half Century Awards 

Originally founded by Lester and Ethel 

Blythe as Griffith Sport Shop in 1952, 

Blythe’s Sport Shop, Inc. has locations 

in Griffith, Valparaiso and Portage. This 

family-owned business is also one of Indiana’s 

most complete, independent sporting good 

stores. The company is a faithful supporter of 

the communities in which they operate 

through sponsorship of little league programs 

and youth organizations and serves on a 

number of environmental conservation and 

restoration committees. 

Valpopourri 

Intended from the beginning to 

be the county seat, Valparaiso was 

first named Portersville. 

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ernor’s Century and Half Century 

Awards honor Indiana businesses that have 

in operation for 100 or 50 years and more and 

demonstrated a history of community service. 

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When mason Joseph Clifford decided to 

acquire some form of storage to house 

material for his jobs, it was purely for his own 

convenience. When other masons started 

submitting requests for him to stock materials 

for their own jobs Clifford Stone and 

Material Company was formed. Fifty-one 

years later, the company is a five-acre 

property that stocks over 400 different types 

of material and has its own fleet of trucks, 

fork lifts, delivery trailers and masonry 

equipment. The company’s community 

outreach includes donations to Habitat for 

Humanity, local Fire and Police Departments, 

as well as area events and festivals. 

Gil Drug Company, Inc. has been a part of 

the Valparaiso landscape for the past 50 years 

and has an unmistakable small-town charm. 

The drug store is owned by Gilbert Turlicher 

and at one time sold everything from 

paint to soda from a vintage soda fountain. 

Gil Drugs sponsors a number of charitable 

organizations, such as the Porter County 

American Cancer Society, local schools, 

athletic teams and churches. 

Kent Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. 

was founded in 1954 by James Kent and is 

currently owned and operated by his son 

Allen. The company is an active community 

partner which donates labor and materials 

to replace and repair heating and cooling 

systems for the less fortunate through such 

programs as ‘Christmas in April’ and 

‘Rebuilding Together.’ 


11


New Members 

THE GREATER VALPARAISO 

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 

welcomes new members who joined 

during September – Mid-November 2005 

Accent Dental 

402 Marquette St • 465-4008 

Dean Boldin DDS, Dentists 

Berglund Construction 

1050 Broadway, Ste 11, Chesterton, 46304 

926-4246 

Bill Gorski Jr., Construction 

Blue Eyed Girl 

119 Broadway, Chesterton, 46304 

395-1069 

Liz Welter, Apparel/Retail 

Box Seat Tickets 

607 N Morgan • 462-3349 

John Wilson, Ticket Broker 

Campbell Street Café 

4245 Meridian Woods Dr • 531-1800 

Vicky Gadd, Restaurant 

Carpenter’s Son Construction, LLC 

106 Erie Street • 617-5941 

Thomas Feick, Construction 

Century 21 Executive Group (Appel) 

2612 N Calumet Ave • 548-7856 

Judith Appel, Real Estate/ 

Commercial & Residential 

Century 21 Executive Group- 

Heneka, Tucker, & Kull 

2612 N Calumet Ave • 548-7868 

Nikki Heneka, Real Estate/ 

Commercial & Residential 

DataCom Solutions 

PO Box 1401, Portage, 46368 

916-6974 

Dan Rosenberger, Computer Networking/ 

Products/Services/Training 

F. C. Tucker Northwest Indiana 

Realtors, Inc. (Niloff) 

2500 Calumet Ave, Ste D • 464-3800 

Dave Niloff, Real Estate/Commercial & 

Residential 

Food Bank of Northwest Indiana 

2248 W 35th Ave, Gary, 46408 

980-1777 

Jeff Fox, Organization 

Foster Printing Service, Inc. 

4295 S. Ohio Street, Michigan City, 46360 

(800) 382-0808 

Kristin Hadari, Printers 

Innovative Cleaning 

3602 Lake Meadow Drive 46385 

241-9899 

Michelle Manney-Ullom, Cleaning/ 

Janitorial Services 

Inspector, The 

265 W Brown St, #2 

465-1785 

David Czekaj, 

Home Inspection 

Jackson Hewitt 

Tax Service 

3125 N Calumet 

(574) 255-2200 

Pam Zahrt, Tax Service 

Lexus of Mishawaka 

4325 N Grape Rd 

Mishawaka, 46545 

(574) 243-7707 

Perry Watson IV, Auto 

Dealers/New &Used 

NARDO Builders 

PO Box 472, 

46384-0472 

(800) 748-8120 

Jack Barko, Builders & 

Developers 

All addresses are in the 46383 zip code and 

phone numbers are 219 area unless otherwise indicated. 

Old Mill, The 

3534 N Calumet Ave • 477-5511 

Scott M Reder, Pizza/Restaurant 

One Source Construction 

11 1/2 N Washington St • 477-4663 

Michael Magiera, Construction 

Osage Productions 

1956 Joliet Rd, 46385 • 476-3221 

Derek Granquist, Advertising & 

Marketing Services 

Premier Hospice 

1205 W Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville, 46410 

324-7733 

Tina VanSessen, 

Health Care/Home Health Care 

Purdue Calumet Learning Center 

9900 Connecticut Dr, Crown Point, 46307 

756-4611 

Dorothy Briestansky, 

Education/Schools 

She 

251 

Lea 

Win 

150 

Sco 

Environmental Solutions Group 

506 E 86th Ave 

Merrillville, 46410 • 769-3400 

Brian Gerike, Environmental Products/Services 

Northwest 

Geothermal Inc. 

16600 N 700 W, 

Demotte, 46310 

987-2822 

George Kontol Jr., 

Heating/Air Conditioning 



Valpopourri 

In 1874 the Public High School 

held its first commencement. 

Shelemey Law Office 

251 Indiana Ave • 531-1230 

Lea Shelemey, Attorneys/Legal Services 

Winger Management Services 

150 W Lincolnway, Ste 102 • 531-4090 

Scott Winger, Construction 

WYIN 56/DT 17 

8625 Indiana Place, 

Merrillville, 46410 

756-5656 

Megan Ciszewski, 

Television 

7 


13


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s 

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V 

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C 

r 

Valpopourri 

Around 1900, the solitary gas 

street lights at each corner were 

mounted on a pulley so they 

could be pulled to the second 

story of a nearby building 

to be lit each night. 

A 

B 

6 

T 

When experience and 

GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE 

meet. 

Helping meet the needs of State Farm® customers 

is how I help you protect what you value most. 

I’m proud to be recognized as a member of 

State Farm’s President’s Club. 

It’s my privilege to serve you. 

Todd Thomae Ins Agcy Inc 

Todd A Thomae, Agent 

Valparaiso, IN 46383 

Bus: 219-462-0527 

Toll Free: 877-462-0527 

todd.thomae.lr68@statefarm.com 

State Farm • Home Offices: Bloomington, IL • statefarm.com ® P057006 1/05 

A Complete Print Connection 

In Your Community 

O 

D 

t 

E 

S 

S 

a 

C 

-Established 1924- 

219.879.9144 • 800.382.0808 

www.fosterprintingservice.com 

sales@fosterprintingservice.com 


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Valpopourri 

By 1890, Valparaiso’s population had 

increased to more than 5,000, and 

by 1900 it surpassed 6,000. 

Around Town 

Butterfly Kisses Children's Boutique moved to a new location on January 1, 2006. The new address is 

68 W Lincolnway (next door to Bon Femme). They will be hosting a Business After Hours/Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting on 

Thursday, February 16. For more information, please contact owner Jennifer Ziemkiewicz 531-7444. 

The Executives’ Council 17th annual luncheon is scheduled for Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at the Radisson Hotel. This year’s keynote 

speaker, Rita Murray, a first-generation American businesswoman, will present “Generations in the Workplace,” a guide to working with 

four generations and leveraging their strengths for success in today’s 24/7 global marketplaces. Contact Anne Brooks at (219) 393.5251 or 

email info@executivescouncil.com for corporate sponsorships, ranging from $100 to $500 and/or individual luncheon tickets at $20 each. 

Visit www.executivescouncil.com. 

J & N Enterprises, Inc. 

On Thursday, October 27, 2005 Northwest Indiana Small Business 

Development Center presented J & N ENTERPRISES, INC. with 

the Small Business Exporter of the Year Award at its 20th annual 

Entrepreneurial Awards Luncheon. Owners, Nancy Kleppe and 

Scott Kleppe (pictured in center) were nominated for this award by 

Scott Steinwart (pictured left), Senior Vice President, Chase Bank 

and Deb Butterfield, President, Greater Valparaiso Chamber of 

Commerce (pictured right). 

MADHAUS is pleased to announce that they are the proud 

recipient of 3 MarCom International Creative Awards. The MarCom 

Creative Awards is an international awards competition that 

recognizes outstanding achievement by marketing and 

communication practitioners. Entries are judged by industry 

professionals who look for companies and individuals whose talent 

exceeds a high standard of excellence and whose work serves as a 

benchmark for the industry. There were over 4,600 entries from 

throughout the United States and several foreign countries in this 

year’s competition. Madhaus received a Gold Award for the Horizon 

Christian Fellowship Web Site - www.horizon.org, a Gold Award for 

the Schroeder Photography Seniors Brochure and Honorable Mention 

for the Prairie at Aberdeen Campaign. “We are very excited about 

this,” said Michael Bennett, CEO of Madhaus. “Not only does 

this speak to the quality of our design, it brings great exposure to 

the clients for whom we did the creative work. It’s quite an honor 

for all of us here at Madhaus.” 

RICHARD BLEDSOE, President and CEO of McDaniel Fire 

Systems, has been appointed to the Business Advisory Council (BAC) by 

the National Republican Congressional Committee. The Business 

Advisory Council is dedicated to making sure the small business has 

a voice in Washington. Bledsoe will serve the state of Indiana and is 

expected to play a key role in the Party’s efforts to involve top 

business people in the process of government reform. His particular 

interest in debt reduction and insurance and tax reform will be a 

valuable contribution to the work of the Council. For more 

information, please contact Viki Gudas at 219-548-5145 or 

vgudas@mcdanielfire.com 

MERCURY CLEANERS 

The Indiana Department of 

Environmental Management 

(IDEM) is pleased to 

announce that Mercury 

Cleaners has been awarded 

IDEM’s 5-Star Environmental 

Award for drycleaners. Norman 

and Brett Dygert recently 

received the award from 

IDEM’s Northern Regional 

Mercury Cleaners Office Director Michael 

Aylesworth. “It makes me very 

proud to present the 5-Star drycleaning award to a business in my home 

area. It’s satisfying to know that people in my own community are going 

to extraordinary measures to achieve such high environmental goals. 

The Dygerts are protecting the environment, active in the community, 

and they are serving their customers with the highest level of service,” 

said Aylesworth. The 5-Star Award is given to recognize drycleaners that 

have achieved compliance with all existing environmental regulations 

and gone “above and beyond” to ensure that operations are 

performed in a manner that is protective of the environment. 

THE PORTER-STARKE SERVICES FOUNDATION proudly 

announces the selection and acceptance of Stephen A. Massa as a member 

of their Board of Directors. Massa is a senior partner at Golden 

Technologies, a technical consultant firm he founded in Valparaiso 

over ten years ago. “Through my involvements with Porter-Starke and 

various community health agencies, I’ve developed a deep appreciation 

and knowledge of mental health and wellness and the quality services 

they provide the community. It’s extremely gratifying to be a part of 

their efforts,” Massa said. The Porter-Starke Services Foundation 

promotes and offers financial support for the behavioral and mental 

health needs of our community. For more information about the 

Porter-Starke Services Foundation or to make a charitable donation, 

please call 219-531-3510 or visit www.porterstarke.org 

06 


15


Ask An Expert 

This new column provides expert answers 

to your business questions. If you would like 

to submit questions, please either email them 

with the subject line “Ask the Expert,” to 

info@valparaisochamber.org or mail them 

to Valparaiso Magazine (162 W. Lincolnway, 

Valparaiso, IN 46383). 

Questions answered by Stu Summers and 

the Valparaiso Redevelopment Commission. 

1) Earlier this year, when improvements 

were made to LaPorte, why wasn't the 

section of LaPorte in front of Culvers and 

Dairy Queen widened to include a center 

turn lane so that vehicles making a turn from 

the opposite sides of the street could safely 

turn into Culvers or Dairy Queen without 

holding up traffic? 

The portion of LaPorte Avenue from 

Culvers west to Sturdy is part of the roundabout 

project. Design for the roundabout was 

completed in the Fall of 2005. The Indiana 

Department of Transportation will review and 

approve the plans this winter. Some right of 

way will need to be acquired for the 

roundabout. Later this winter or in early 

Spring 2006, we hope to take bids on 

constructing the roundabout, for completion 

in late fall of 2006. New turning 

movements and pathways will be part of the 

roundabout project. 

2) What will happen with the building that 

used to house Century 21 Estates in the 

middle of the proposed roundabout? 

Expert Answers To Your Business Questions 

The Redevelopment Commission bought 

the triangle building last year to make room for 

the roundabout connecting south Sturdy Road 

with Lincolnway and LaPorte Avenues. The 

building is one of the better looking structures 

in the neighborhood and the primary plan is to 

relocate the building to another site in the East 

Gate area. Engineers for Greg Engstrom are 

reviewing the feasibility of moving the 

building to a vacant parcel on 

Chicago Street directly north of 

Engstrom’s Ameripawn. If the 

building cannot be recycled for 

another use, it will be stripped 

and demolished to make way 

for the roundabout. 

3) What will happen to the 

land where the old Red Hots 

and Larry Miller Glass used to 

be located? 

After the roundabout is 

completed in late 2006, the 

excess land (about one acre) will be sold to 

the highest and best bidder. The land is 

zoned commercial. 

4) What is going to be developed on the 

empty lot at the corner of Lincolnway 

and Campbell? 

The parcel is outside of the Redevelopment 

area. City Economic Development Director 

Charles McGill reports the Langer & Langer 

law firm purchased the property and is 

planning on making a substantial investment 

in a new building for their practice. 

5) What is the difference between 

redevelopment and economic development? 

Both economic development and redevelopment 

serve two basic purposes: To grow 

the tax base of the community while reducing 

the demand for expensive governmental 

services. For example, when a new employer 

comes to town and builds a building, property 

taxes, sales taxes, and income taxes to state and 

Redevelopment Commission Meets 

local governments go up, while the need for 

welfare, unemployment assistance, and public 

protection services go down because of the 

new jobs and increased employment. 

Redevelopment is a subset of economic 

development and involves numerous 

governmental tools needed to address the special 

challenges and difficulties facing previously 

developed areas. In Valparaiso, this typically 

means the extension or rebuilding of roads, 

pathways, and utilities to make way for new economic 

and community development projects. 

Continued on page 18 


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Valpopourri 

• 77% of Valparaiso Chamber members 

rate this magazine as “valuable.” 

• 40.8% of Valparaiso Chamber 

members think our gift certificate 

program is valuable. 

• Almost 52% of our members 

take advantage of “Business After 

Hours” events. 

06 


17


Ask An Expert (continued) 

6) Does a city have the right to condemn or 

take a piece of property for any reason? 

No. The power of eminent domain is 

granted to governmental units and utilities 

only to serve the greater public good in 

fulfillment of the government’s powers and 

responsibilities. A public utility, such as 

NIPSCO, could acquire property for 

extending power lines, but not for building a 

school. General units of government, such as 

the state, county, or city, are permitted to 

acquire property for economic development or 

the elimination of blighted conditions, as well 

as general roads, bridges, parking, etc. In all 

cases, the governmental unit or utility must be 

able to demonstrate to a court the public 

benefit of the acquisition and then pay not 

only fair market value but also reasonable relocation 

expenses to the private property owner. 

7) Can or will utility lines be buried when 

redevelopment occurs? 

Generally not: Burying electrical and 

communications lines is extremely expensive, 

and in some cases, such as high voltage lines, 

impractical. The aesthetics of a commercial 

area can be improved if lines are relocated off 

the street to alleyways, moved to higher 

positions, softened with tree plantings, or 

buried. When lines are buried, the adjacent 

property owners will have to incur the expense 

of connecting to the underground lines, and 

bringing the service entrance up to new 

electrical codes. Thus, underground service is 

most feasible as part of new construction. 

8) Who appoints the Redevelopment 

Commission members? 

By state law, the Mayor appoints 3 of the 

5 members, and 2 are appointed by the City 

Council. In Valparaiso, the City Council has 

chosen to make its two appointments from 

the membership of the City Council. 

Commission members serve one-year 

terms, must be residents of the city, and are 

eligible for unlimited reappointments at the 

pleasure of the appointing authority. 

9) What does “TIF” stand for? 

Tax Increment Financing. 

10) How does a TIF work? 

In general, TIF provides for the temporary 

allocation to the redevelopment commission 

of increased property tax proceeds (known as 

the “increment”) in an allocation area 

generated by increases in assessed value. 

Thus, TIF permits the city to use increased 

tax revenues stimulated by redevelopment to 

pay for the capital improvements required 

to induce redevelopment. 

Valpopourri 

The first railroad to serve the town was 

the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne and Chicago 

(Pennsylvania) Railroad, which was 

built through the town in 1858. 

In 1906, the same year that 

Home Mountain Printing 

began operation, Reginald Fessenden 

made the first extended radio broadcast. 

In 2006, Home Mountain Printing 

celebrates its 100 th anniversary, and we are 

proud of this achievement. After all, we 

have continued operation through the 

Great Depression, two World Wars, and 

other wars. In good time and bad, we have 

been able to grow and prosper. We pride 

ourselves on the excellence of our 

Customer Service, and we continue 

to provide our clients with the 

finest printing and mailing services. 

Though most companies do not stand the 

test of time, there are some that have been 

out there nearly as long as we have. 

2102 N. Calumet Ave. • Valparaiso, IN 46383 • 219-462-6601 


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06 


19


Your Chamber 

At Work For You 

The first Wednesday of every month, at 

7:00 a.m., while others are still sleeping or 

getting ready for work, 60+ Chamber members 

are gathering at the Chocolate Café in 

downtown Valparaiso, eager to make a business 

connection. Hosted by the Valpo Chamber for 

the past two years, AM Valpo is one of the most 

successful FREE early morning networking 

events in Valparaiso. Unlike typical networking 

programs, AM Valpo guarantees that all 

attendees will be individually introduced to every 

one of the other business professionals in the 

room. Everyone receives thirty-seconds of “stage 

time” to stand and present information about 

their business. At the conclusion of the program, 

one feature business card is drawn. The selected 

business is granted five to ten minutes of time the 

following month, giving that business more time 

for an in-depth “commercial” of their products 

and services. Therefore, the hour-long AM Valpo 

concludes each month with a different business 

profile. Following the event, the Chamber sends 

each attendee a contact list of everyone who 

attended that morning’s AM Valpo, thereby 

encouraging connections to continue beyond the 

confines of the cafe. 

Here’s what a few AM Valpo attendees have 

to say about the event: “AM Valpo is Valparaiso's 

best kept secret. It has been our best leads club 

with no fees, no requirements, no obligations and 

if you miss one you are not kicked out. We get all 

the benefits of a leads club without the pressure.” 

- Donna Flanagin, Flanagin's Bulk Mail Service 

“Bob Johnson and Nationwide Floors did an 

excellent job installing our new hardwood flooring 

in our home. I met Bob at AM Valpo and he 

came out to our home and gave us a very 

competitive bid. He saved me time, money and 

best of all, my wife Dawn loves the floor!” 

- Paul Sciarra, Bartholomew and Son Insurance 

“One of my best experiences with AM Valpo 

has nothing to do with selling anyone my 

services, but in learning about someone else’s 

service and then utilizing that service to help my 

business. I started about two years ago mailing a 

monthly newsletter to my customer base. 

I personally would stamp, label, and tab the 

newsletters every month. Why? Because I didn’t 

have enough time to research bulk mailers and 

how they could save me money. And then one 

month, at AM Valpo, I approached Donna from 

Flanagin’s Bulk Mailing Service, and she 

explained in simple terms how they could do the 

work and save me money. They have been doing 

my newsletter ever since.” - Gary Taylor, Kenpro 

Cleaning Services 

“As a first- time business owner, I was looking 

for a good way to reach the community. I joined 

the chamber before we even opened for business. 

I have attended the AM Valpo meeting almost 

every month since joining. 

From the very beginning I felt supported by 

the other attendees. Everyone was friendly and 

welcoming to me. Numerous customers have 

come into my store as a direct result of my 

involvement with AM Valpo. The 30-second 

opportunity we each have to share our 

business is the perfect way to let everyone know 

what sales or special events are coming up. 

I would recommend the Valparaiso Chamber 

of Commerce to any service-related business as 

a valuable tool to help grow business.” 

- Diane Haines, Au Naturel Market 

EXCEPTIONAL PEOPLE 

EXCEPTIONAL MEDICINE 

The Duneland Health & Wellness Institute 

810 Michael Drive • Chesterton, Indiana 

Charles Tattersall, MD 

is now scheduling patients 

in Chesterton. Board 

Certified in Vascular Surgery, 

Dr.Tattersall specializes in 

vascular surgery, endovascular 

procedures and varicose veins. 

To make an appointment 

with Dr. Tattersall, please 

call 219-395-2197. 

Zeba Ali, MD is now scheduling 

January appointments. Board Certified 

in Family Practice, Dr. Ali is the Medical 

Director of the Women’s Comprehensive 

Health Center and is interested in 

hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. 

To make an appointment with 

Dr. Ali, please call 219-395-2195. 


the 

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s.” 

Saint Anthony Memorial 

An acute care hospital located in Michigan City, 

providing comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services. 

HealthPartners 

A multi-specialty physician network with offices in 

Michigan City, Chesterton, Westville and LaPorte. 

Duneland Health & 

Wellness Institute 

A comprehensive health campus with a medically 

based fitness center, physician offices, women’s health, 

neuromuscular therapy and behavioral medicine. 

Women’s Comprehensive 

Health Center 

Convenient access to women’s health services, 

mammography and quality health providers such 

as nurse practitioners. 

Indiana Sleep 

Disorders Center 

The Indiana Sleep Disorders Center provides the sleep 

you dream of in a convenient location. 

Woodland Healthcare 

Surgicenter 

Outpatient surgery for your convenience. 


21


Using Eminent Domain Wisely 

for the Good of Our City 

by Jon Costas, July 12, 2005 

When is it appropriate and fair for 

government to use its eminent 

domain power to obtain land for 

public purposes? 

Recently, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a 

decision which clarified the rights and duties 

of government in its ability to create a “forced 

sale” in order to further public projects. In 

Kelo vs. New London, the city of New 

London, Connecticut, sought to obtain land 

to construct a new riverfront complex and 

research park to create an estimated 1,000 jobs 

in this economically distressed city. The court, 

in a close 5 to 4 decision found in favor of the 

city thereby reaffirming local government’s 

ability to use eminent domain to acquire 

property for economic development purposes. 

Most notably, the court broadly defined 

“public purpose” by finding that economic 

development is an acceptable public goal and 

best left to local officials. 

The Kelo decision has evoked a flood of 

emotion because it involves one of our 

fundamental rights; private land ownership. At 

what point does a legitimate collective good 

outweigh the right of individual landowners to 

retain their land? This is a crucial issue because, 

without eminent domain power, many, if not 

most, public projects would not occur. 

Locally, the city of Valparaiso, through its 

Redevelopment Commission, has taken legal 

action to condemn County Seat Plaza to pave 

the way for a wholesale redevelopment of the 

long-ailing retail center. Clearly, Valparaiso 

citizens want the center improved and, as 

such, it is a major priority for the city. 

Unlike the situation in Kelo, use of eminent 

domain at County Seat is not just to foster 

economic development, but to cure a blighted 

condition. Eliminating a black eye on the city 

requires strong medicine. 

But government officials must recognize 

that eminent domain is a very powerful tool 

and, like any tool, can be abused and cause 

irreparable damage. Here are a few guidelines 

my administration uses when considering 

eminent domain for 

public purposes. First, 

the city must clearly 

establish that the public 

purpose is very important 

to the community 

and has the support of its 

citizens. Second, the 

city must explore all 

viable options to archive 

the public purpose 

before resorting to use 

of eminent domain. 

Private negotiations must 

be exhausted before 

Valpopourri 

A stage line connected Valparaiso with 

Calumet (now Chesterton) in 1854. 

eminent domain is used. And finally, the city 

must do its homework thoroughly so that the 

net result is an economic and aesthetic benefit 

to the community as a whole. 

With the Kelo ruling, the eminent domain 

“club” has gotten bigger. As such, it is 

incumbent upon local officials to use it 

carefully and wisely and only when it clearly 

furthers the best interests of the common good. 

NEXT ISSUE (April 2006)-We will be more 

closely looking at eminent domain and how 

it impacts business owners whose properties are 

included in redevelopment efforts. 

Editors Note: LNR, current owners of 

County Seat Plaza are expected to sign an 

agreement with the Redevelopment 

Commission to sell the retail center for 

$6,999,900 and close a deal on January 18, 

2006. The city has received a proposal from 

a subsidiary of Urschel Development 

Corporation to purchase the County Seat 

Plaza for $7 million. The agreement will 

officially end the city's eminent domain suit 

with LNR to acquire the property. 

22 


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06 


23


Brains – 

and Good Looks, Too! 

The world-class Purdue education on a jewel of a campus – 

That’s the Purdue North Central experience! 

No wonder it’s Valparaiso’s public university of choice. 

Purdue North Central 

219-462-4197, ext. 5505 

1401 South US Hwy. 421, Westville 

Need more information? 

Visit www.pnc.edu and click on 

IM to chat with admissions 

PNC Valparaiso Academic Center 

219-548-2468 

600 Vale Park Road South, Valparaiso 

www.pnc.edu 

an equal access/equal opportunity university

Winter-2006

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