healthy pets,

Vol. 15 Issue 2 • Spring 2015

The Magazine of the Greater Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce

HEALTHY PETS, HAPPY FAMILIES

Leon and Vanessa BlandHealthi Paws Owners

NEW LOOK

A publication of the Greater Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce162 W Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383

Phone (219) 462-1105, Fax (219) [email protected]

GREATER VALPARAISO CHAMBER OF COMMERCERex Richards, President

Julie Gaskell, Executive Vice PresidentDanielle Oeding, Vice President, Sales & Marketing

Kurt Gillins, Member Services DirectorChristine Pazdur, Accounting Director

Sue Stymiest, Resource Director

VALPARAISO MAGAZINEPUBLISHER: Rex Richards

EDITOR: Kurt GillinsSALES: Danielle Oeding

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION: AC, IncorporatedFEATURE WRITING: D. Cohn Communications

COVER/FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHY: Aran Kessler Photo.ImagingPRINTING: Home Mountain Printing

MAILING: Flanagin’s Bulk Mail Service

CORRECTION: Laurie Wink was inadvertently omitted as the writer of the article Serving Up Success in the Winter 2015 issue.

To submit “Around Town” entries, call (219) 462-1105or send to [email protected], Attn: Editor

For advertising inquiries: call (219) 462-1105, Attn: Danielleor [email protected]

Valparaiso Magazine circulates 18,000 copies per issue by direct mail to all businesses, and, on a rotating basis, to most house holds in the 46383, 46384, and

46385 zip codes.

Subscriptions may be purchased at an annual rate of $12, for those outside our regular circulation

Vol. 15 Issue 2 • Spring 2015The Magazine of the Greater Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce

4 COVER

SECTIONS


FEATURES10 THE REWARDS OF RESCUE

14 ANIMALS HELPING PEOPLE, PEOPLE HELPING ANIMALS

18 CHAMBER FOCUS Leadership Academy

22 BUSINESS SNAPSHOTS

25 NEW MEMBER INVESTORS New Board-approved members

26 AROUND TOWN Local business news

31 A LOOK BACK An Historical Glance at a Valparaiso Pet

33 BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Advertisers in the Spotlight

34 OUR CORNER

VALPARAISO MAGAZINE • SPRING 20154

By Darlene McCarty CohnHEALTHY PETS, HAPPY FAMILIESBy Darlene McCarty Cohn

Vanessa Bland, owner, with staffHealthi Paws

- Leon Bland, Healthi Paws

VALPOCHAMBER.ORG 5

alparaiso is home to many

exceptional businesses who are as

passionate about caring for pets as their

owners are about keeping them healthy

and happy. These businesses know their

customers’ pets are members of the family.

As such, all aim to offer the best options to

help owners care for their furry, feathered,

slithering, and slippery friends.

One such business is Healthi Paws.

Located at 2912 Calumet Ave, Valparaiso,

IN 46383, (219) 286-7062, Leon and

Vanessa Bland are committed to keeping

animals healthy and happy through proper

nutrition, expert grooming, and educated

owners.

Both Vanessa and Leon Bland are animal

lovers who have always had pets of

their own. Before opening Healthi Paws,

Vanessa worked as a real estate agent

and Leon as a builder. When the health of

one of their own dogs was compromised,

the couple looked to holistic nutrition for

relief and found great results. They became

so passionate about healthy, natural

nutrition that they decided to open a shop

specializing in products they couldn’t find

elsewhere.

The couple have put years of research into

animal nutrition and work closely with local

vets to keep animals healthy and owners

educated.

They emphasize their commitment to

prolonging happy lives for animals. Leon

Bland says, “The health of the pet revolves

around proper diet and making the owner

aware and knowledgeable.” They only

carry foods that “have been checked and

rechecked.” But just because a food is

healthy doesn’t mean a dog or cat will

respond to it, so they give owners samples

to match the food to the animal.

Healthi Paws also offers grooming

services. It uses only organic shampoos

and conditioners, and its custom bathing

area is specially designed to minimize

animal stress. It offers toenail trimming,

ear cleaning, a trim or style of the owner’s

choice, and other specialized grooming

needs. The shop sells healthy dog, cat,

and small animal foods, pet supplies, and

treats.

Healthi Paws also regularly hosts Customer

Appreciation Events, with discounted

and free merchandise and samples.

Manufacturers’ sales representatives

are present as well, and local rescue

organizations talk about their mission and

animals. >>

V

“The health of the pet revolves around proper diet.”


>> Laurie Robinson’s business is also committed to keeping pets healthy and happy. Robinson owns Rover’s Recess, P.O. Box 1631, Valparaiso, IN 46384, (219) 916-8548, a home pet-sitting service exclusive to Valparaiso. Robinson visits the homes of her clients throughout the day to care for their animals while they are away. She also offers overnight pet-sitting for customers who want nighttime company for their pets and a little extra security when they’re out of town. “It’s better for the pet,” she says. “They’re in a safe, familiar environment, and are more relaxed.”

Robinson has a degree in psychology from Purdue, but her true passion has always been working with animals. She began her career as a veterinary assistant at Vale Park Animal Hospital.

“I feel fortunate to have followed my heart.”- Laurie Robinson, Rover’s Recess

Laurie Robinson, ownerRover’s Recess

Originally, she was performing pet-sitting jobs on the side while working at the hospital, but her service grew so popular that she decided to pet-sit full-time.

Robinson opened Rover’s Recess in 2007. “I feel fortunate to have followed my heart,” she says. “I have a career I love.” Now she’s bonded, insured, and works seven days a week.

Because of her medical training, Robinson not only feeds and walks pets, she can also administer medicine and medical treatments. She knows pet CPR, and has experience caring for elderly animals. Robinson says one key to working with animals is understanding that no two are the same. She loves visiting the pets she cares for, and says the affection she gets back from the animals makes her daily travel worthwhile. “The absolute best is when I walk in the house and the animal is excited to see me.”

VALPOCHAMBER.ORG 5

5

Coco’s Canine Cabana, owned by Kathy DeFries and managed by Jennifer Ellingen, also offers doggie day care, as well as boarding services, grooming, a pet boutique, and a bakery. It can be found in Valpo at 405 Elm St, Valparaiso, IN 46383, (219) 462-1222. Coco’s Canine Cabana’s services have proven so popular, it opened a second location in Chesterton in 2013.

Ellingen, who went to school for accounting, says she’s always loved and owned animals. When DeFries opened Coco’s Canine Cabana in 2009, Ellingen stepped in to help run the business, managing daily operations.

Ellingen says she gets a lot of satisfaction from working with animals. “I love seeing the dogs come in. They’re part of our family.”

“I love seeing the dogs come in. They’re part of our family.”


- Jennifer Ellingen, Coco’s Canine Cabana

She enjoys watching the dogs who come for day care and boarding develop bonds with one another. She says, “They make friends. You’ll see them form little cliques.” While the staff of Coco’s Canine Cabana love their furry clientele, Ellingen says she also gets joy from watching those animals’ excitement when their owners return.

Coco’s Canine Cabana also helps animals in need. It rents space to Lakeshore Paws, whose animal rescue facility is housed in the same building. It also fosters animals for Guardians of the Green Mile, an animal rescue organization in Portage. In addition to caring for her own Maltese and Yorkie, Ellingen also personally fosters dogs who need temporary homes while waiting to be adopted. >>

Jennifer Ellingen, managerCoco’s Canine Cabana


>> Kim Wilson of Smoochie Pooch is also focused on keeping animals healthy and happy while pleasing their owners by providing exceptional service. Smoochie Pooch offers full-service grooming with pet owners’ convenience in mind. Smoochie Pooch’s salon is located at 503 Silhavy Rd, Suite A100, Valparaiso, IN 46383, (219) 617-9880. It features a pet boutique with food, supplies, treats, and toys. What makes Smoochie Pooch especially unique, though, is its mobile grooming service. Wilson and her staff take their mobile grooming station directly to their clients and “groom the pets right at their doorstep” – an option which helps owners and makes the animals more comfortable.

Wilson credits Smoochie Pooch’s success to its focus on developing good relationships with the animals and their owners.

“Take a scared dog, make them comfortable, and that’s a nice feeling,” she says.When her customers get “enjoyment from their clean, beautiful pets,” she earns their trust. Many of her grooming clients have been with her for several years, and their pets have grown to know and love her too.

Wilson began grooming pets several years ago, and has been delighted by Smoochie Pooch’s success. When she began, she says, “I never could have imagined where I’d be with the company.” As Smoochie Pooch grows, it strives to add convenient new services, such as online scheduling. The company is also currently developing a way for customers to order pet food delivery through its website.

“Take a scared dog, make them comfortable, and that’s a nice feeling.” - Kim Wilson, Smoochie Pooch

Kim Wilson, ownerSmoochie Pooch

9VALPOCHAMBER.ORG 9

At Pet Supplies “Plus”, 2410 LaPorte Ave, Suite 100, Valparaiso, IN 46383, (219) 531-0622, Tammy Quinn also focuses on developing meaningful relationships with her customers through exceptional service. She says her favorite part of running the store is talking to patrons. “I like finding out about their animals. Their stories are interesting. For a lot of people, those animals are their babies.”

Pet Supplies “Plus” sells pet food and supplies, as well as small animals such as birds, fish, mice, hamsters, and occasionally ferrets. Quinn opened the store in 2002 because she was looking for a flexible work schedule. Her brother had been running another Pet Supplies “Plus” location for several years, and she decided to follow in his footsteps. The decision has given her the ability to raise her family and be her own boss.

Quinn says her role in the store is primarily “behind the scenes,” managing its operations. However, Quinn knows pets and understands their owners’ needs. She says she’s owned dogs, cats, a chameleon, a rabbit, and hermit crabs.

Quinn takes special pride in her talented, committed management and floor staff who provide excellent customer care. She says many of her employees have been with the store for several years. “Our goal is to strive for customer service. We don’t want customers to be afraid to ask for what they need.”

When looking for care for their animals, Valparaiso pet owners have several wonderful choices. Each of these businesses has a unique approach to providing the absolute best care for pets with the products and services their families need. These professionals provide the tender loving care that pets need to stay healthy and happy.

“For a lot of people, those animals are their babies.”- Tammy Quinn, Pet Supplies “Plus”


he homeless animal problem is a

growing concern for many throughout

our country and locally. Thanks to the

passion and perseverance of several

local animal lovers, that problem

is diminishing, and more adorable

animals are finding loving homes.

In 2011, the economy was poor, and

many families found themselves in the

difficult situation of having to re-home

their family pet just to make ends

meet. Friends Jeanne Sommer and

Kim Langer recognized this problem

and knew there had to be a way to

help. That year, they started Lakeshore

PAWS animal rescue, which has

been helping animals find their forever

homes ever since. “Our goal was to

do 100 adoptions that first year,” said

Sommer. “Who would have imagined

we actually averaged 350 placements

a year!”

Since Lakeshore PAWS began, “over

1400 dogs and 250 cats have gotten

a second chance and found homes.”

The majority of the animals in the care

of Lakeshore PAWS are pulled from

shelters in Northwest Indiana. “We

pull the ones that have either been in

cages for a long period of time or that

are going to be euthanized.” While

Lakeshore PAWS currently works

with dogs only, their hope is to build

their own facility in the future with a

dedicated space for homeless cats.

They previously rescued cats, but

currently only work with dogs and in

the future hope to return to helping

cats.

All of the Lakeshore PAWS dogs are

housed in foster homes or at the

Lakeshore PAWS facility, located at

405 Elm Street. In order to care for

all of the animals, the rescue relies

completely on donations and grants.

“It costs $622 a day to operate

our adoption center, and without

donations, we could not help these

dogs,” Sommer explained.

THE REWARDS OF RESCUEBy Brianna Reeves

“The most rewarding aspect is when you look into that dog’s eyes and see the unconditional love that they have.”


T

- Jeanne Sommer, Lakeshore PAWS

Jeanne Sommer, executive directorLakeshore PAWS

VALPOCHAMBER.ORG 11

Assistance from the community is

essential to the success of the rescue.

Century 21 Alliance Group, and

Coco’s Canine Cabana, just to name

a few. Sommer says, “If you have

ever wanted to get involved in helping

homeless dogs, please consider

either donating, fostering a dog, or

volunteering!”

Running a rescue has been an

extremely rewarding experience for

Sommer. “The most rewarding aspect

is when you look into that dog’s eyes

and see the unconditional love that

they have.” She is often in awe of the

animals’ resilience and faith they have

in people, despite the difficult life they

have lived. “We can’t control the bad

beginnings, but we can control the

happy endings, and we will settle for

that!”

Another local rescue that is combating

the area’s homeless pet problem is

Giant Paw Prints Rescue, located at

2700 Valparaiso Street. Started in 2012

by Cathy Nolan, this rescue began with

a specific goal in mind: to find loving

homes for large breed dogs. Megan

Mankerian-Stem, who is in charge of

event planning and outreach for Giant

Paw Prints, stated, “Large breed dogs

are hard to place due to their cost

of care and health issues, so Cathy

wanted to assist other shelters and

rescues by focusing on finding homes

for them.” >>

In the past year, over 110 dogs have

been adopted from Giant Paw Prints

Rescue. While many of them were

large breeds, including St. Bernards,

Great Danes, and Mastiffs, they found

homes for many small breeds, as

well. The dogs that make their way

to Giant Paw Prints come from all

over the country. Mankerian-Stem

explains, “People will reach out to let

us know there is a large dog at a high

kill shelter, and we will do what we can

to save it.” That includes working with

non-profits like Pilots N Paws which

flies dogs from around the country to

foster homes here in

Northwest Indiana.

Funded entirely by donations, Giant

Paw Prints Rescue is proud to say that

100% of the money they receive goes

to the dogs and their care. “There

is not a single person on payroll, so

every dollar goes to the dogs.”

Fundraisers are held regularly to raise

funds for the high costs associated

with caring for large breeds, and

inform the community about the

mission of the rescue. “One thing

we want the community to know is

it doesn’t cost anything to foster. We

pay for everything. All you need to

do is open your home to love a dog.”

Most of Giant Paw Prints’ rescue dogs

are housed in foster homes, so they

are always on the lookout for more

fosters, which would allow them to

save more dogs.

Saving the dogs is just one of the

many rewards of working with an

animal rescue. To Mankerian-Stem,

it is about helping the people, too.

“It’s a life-changing experience for the

people as well, so I’m helping make a

difference in the pet’s life and theirs.”

Saving the dogs is just one of the

many rewards of working with an

animal rescue. To Mankerian-Stem,

it is about helping the people, too.

“It’s a life-changing experience for the

people as well, so I’m helping make a

difference in the pet’s life and theirs.”


“It’s a life-changing experience for the people as well, so I’m helping make a difference in the pet’s life and theirs.”

- Megan Mankerian-Stem, Giant Paw Prints

Megan Mankerian-Stem, Giant Paw Prints

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For more information, or to schedule a tour, contact us today.

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VALPOCHAMBER.ORG 13

orthwest Indiana’s love of animals reaches beyond family pets. Non-profit organizations exist here that improve our lives by looking to animals to help with personal development, and teaching us to care for animals that might be neglected in the wild.

Reins of Life, a therapeutic horseback riding organization out of South Bend and Michigan City, exists to help people with disabilities learn not only to ride a horse, but many other crucial life skills. Dorota Janik, Executive Director of Reins of Life, says she has seen “many amazing transformations” happen at her facilities.

Anyone two years old and up, with a diagnosed disability and a doctor’s permission, is welcome at either barn location. The organization takes great care to pair riders with the right horse, volunteer assistants, equipment, and environment, so they can develop their riding skills to the level of their abilities. Reins of Life classes are taught in six to nine-week sessions, in private, semi-private, or group settings.

Janik says that students learn to care for and ride horses, but those aren’t the only benefits. She says riding a horse provides occupational and physical therapy for the riders. The semi-private and group settings allow riders to develop their speech and social skills. Janik says the benefits to riders go even further. “They feel included and not judged. Everyone is happy here.” Because the riders develop physical strength and confidence, she has even seen them improve in school environments and do better in their studies.

Reins of Life is a primarily volunteer-run organization. Janik says the non-profit has just ten employees and over 300 volunteers. Many of their horses, donkeys, and ponies are donated. Their entire Michigan City location was a very generous gift. Reins of Life gives back to the community not only through its programs, but they also take their horses to schools, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. They like to give “nuzzles and snuggles to people who can’t get out to the barn.”

The organization is an accredited Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) International Riding Center, and in 2014, was recognized by PATH Intl. as a Premier Accredited Therapeutic Riding Center for being in 100% compliance with over 100 criteria. It’s also a recipient of the American Youth Horse Council Partnership Award, and has been nominated for the American Youth Horse Council Leader of the Year Award. Reins of Life holds several fundraising events throughout the year. The next event is May 1st, 2015 – a Kentucky Derby themed party at Blue Chip Casino – so get your fancy hats ready.

While Reins of Life’s horses helps humans, many other kinds of animals need human help. Fifteen years ago, a group of wildlife rehabilitators and enthusiasts opened Moraine Ridge Wildlife Rehab Center, an organization to assist with injured and orphaned wildlife in Northwest Indiana. Their mission is simple: “Rescue. Rehab. Release.” >>

By Darlene McCarty Cohn

Animals Helping People,

People Helping Animals

“They feel included and not judged. Everyone is happy here.”Dorota Janik, executive directorReins of Life


By Brianna Reeves and Darlene McCarty Cohn

N


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>> Along with their rescue efforts, Moraine Ridge seeks to educate the public about our local wildlife. “We are here to help the wildlife, to help people with wildlife situations, and to teach people that we can co-exist with wildlife,” explained Stephanie Kadletz, Director and Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator.

Moraine Ridge works strictly with native wildlife, which includes migratory birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Whether it’s a hummingbird, coyote, turtle, or snake, Moraine Ridge can and will be there to help. “We want people to know that there is a place to call for assistance if they should encounter an injured or orphaned animal.” Last year, they rescued 111 animals and 24 individual species. For those that cannot be released back into the wild, they find a another zoo or center for them to call home.

Moraine Ridge is funded entirely by donations, fundraisers, and grants. Thanks to a recent grant from the Porter County Wildlife Management Advisory Board Fund, they will be able to start construction this spring on a 100-foot flight cage to house migratory birds.

With only one paid staff member, their team of dedicated volunteers is vital to the success of the center, as is assistance from the community. Many of their rescue efforts involve the help of good Samaritans, including one recent rescue with a goose stranded in the middle of a partially frozen pond. Thanks to nearby neighbors, excellent cooperation, and innovative problem-solving, they were able to get the goose to safety.

Wildlife rescues with happy endings such as that are the highlights of the work done at Moraine Ridge. “The most rewarding part of my job is when we get the animals back in the wild where they belong.”

With many of the injuries being a result of human impact, Kadletz and everyone at Moraine Ridge believe it is vital that each individual does his/her part to assist wildlife in need. “We can co-exist with wildlife. We just need to make space for them, too.”

The benefits of organizations like Reins of Life and Moraine Ridge Wildlife Rehab Center to our community are undeniable. Because donations of time and resources are crucial to their ongoing success, these are excellent opportunities to work with animals at nearby facilities for people who’d enjoy caring for animals a little more exotic than Fido and Fluffy.

- Stephanie Kadletz, director Moraine Ridge

“We can co-exist with wildlife. We just need to make space for them, too.”

Dr. Mary Ann Sheller

Dr. Jerry Rodenbarger

Dr. Kim Juhlin

Dr. BillDonohue

Dr. Lisa Booth

VALPOCHAMBER.ORG 17


CHAMBER FOCUS

Leadership Academy 2014

he Valpo Chamber Leadership Academy was established in 2006 as a collaborative effort by the Valpo Chamber staff, then Board Chair Todd Etzler, Division Chair John Seibert, and the Chamber’s Leadership Engagement Committee. In its short history, the Leadership Academy has become an example of quality and excellence common to Chamber programming.

Over the past few years, several changes have been made to the Leadership Academy, and this year is no different. During the run of the program, Dee Haklin, retired Vice-Chancellor, Ivy Tech Community College turned the reins of the Leadership Academy over to Kris Parker, Purdue University North Central. This seamless change allowed the participants to learn two different approaches to leadership.

The Leadership Academy always brings together business and community leaders to create a network of speakers and mentors who participate in coaching sessions, small-group discussions, and skill-building exercises with the program participants. Admission to the program is for Valpo Chamber

members only and participants must have the full support of their employees.

The Leadership Academy is not just about training. From day one, participants are encouraged to find their passion for service and act on it. The Leadership Academy’s dynamic curriculum not only exposes participants to pressing community issues, but also introduces them to key community leaders. >>

From Left to Right: Bonnie Stephens – Valparaiso Community Schools, Mary Kapitan – Porter-Starke Services, Inc., Teresa Langley –

Porter Health Care System, Allison Martin – Boys & Girls Club of Valparaiso, Christine Rumbaugh – United Way of Porter County, Julia

Gill – Blue Chip Casino, Hotel & Spa, Benjamin Blohm – Grossbauer Group, Lisa Winstead – Hobart Chamber of Commerce, Roxanne

Olejnik – The Times Media Company, Anna Rogers – Pines Village Retirement Communities, Colby Barkes – Blachly Tabor Bozik &

Hartman LLC, Tolu Idowu – Ivy Tech Community College, Caren Furdek – Housing Opportunities, Shannon Franko – 1st Source Bank

T

VALPARAISOCHAMBER.ORG 15

OYSTER PERPETUAL DATEJUST

rolex oyster perpetual and datejust are trademarks.

>> “The Valpo Chamber Leadership Academy is a shining example of ‘forward thinking.’ We hear all of the media hype around the retiring boomers and ‘brain drain’ that is decimating our region – the Leadership Academy is an anecdote to both of those things,” explains Rex Richards, Valpo Chamber President. “It is a ‘win’ for our community in that the Academy is one tangible way to prepare young leaders to fill some very big shoes – in business, community service, and government leadership. It is a ‘win’ for academy students as it exposes them to the many opportunities available to them and equips them to continue on the road to success.”

During the focused seven sessions, August through November, participants are infused in the community, exploring the public sector, city government sector, private business sector, and non-profit organizations that currently benefit from local leaders. Upon completion, participants are expected to take the insights, skills, and contacts gained in the Leadership Academy and apply them to community organizations.

The 2014 Leadership Academy was sponsored by Valpo Chamber Silver Partners: 1st Source Bank, BMO Harris Bank, Comcast Business, Horizon Bank, Metro Recycling, REGIONAL federal credit union, and Uzelac & Associates.

Leadership Academy is, at its heart, about connection – connection between young professionals and seasoned community leaders, and connection between an individual’s desire to serve and opportunities to demonstrate leadership that will make a meaningful difference in our community.

CHAMBER FOCUSCHAMBER FOCUS

Additional 2014 Leadership Academy Participants

From Left to Right:

Chasidy Garner – Horizon Bank, Nadea Khorbolty – Valparaiso University

Jamie Haney – Valparaiso UniversityAshley Dickinson – Porter Health Care System


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We have the right ingredients you need for a Healthy Pet. Our ability to work with customers, their pets, and different animal groups is the key which leads to success for the health of your pet, which is only found at Healthi Paws. This is what our company was founded on and is passed on to our customers.

Our Special Ingredients:

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VALPOCHAMBER.ORG 21

GAST ANIMAL HOSPITAL 258 N 475 W Valparaiso, IN 46385 (219) 759-7387 gastanimalhospital.com

Management: Erica Kerns, Office ManagerChamber Member Since: 2013

Established in 2009, Gast Animal Hospital has prided itself on providing its patients and their owners with attentive veterinary care. The staff of 7, including 2 veterinarians, is focused on customer service and aims to give personal attention to each of its clients. “Everyone here knows your animal as soon as you walk in the door,” says office manager, Erica Kerns. Strictly a hospital for companion animals, Gast provides all of the necessary services to keep your pet healthy, such as vaccines, wellness checks, spay and neuter surgeries, dental procedures, and more. If you prefer to see the same doctor with each visit, Gast will ensure that happens, and they will be with you every step of the way. The attentive and caring staff love to see the positive effects they can have on the animals. “It’s great to see a sick pet make a 100% recovery.”


BUSINESSSNAPSHOTS

By Brianna Reeves

NORTH CENTRAL VETERINARY EMERGENCY CENTER 1645 U.S. 421

Westville, Indiana 46391 (219) 785-7314

nvec.com

Management: Heather Barbour, Practice ManagerChamber Member Since: 1979

In 2001, North Central Veterinary Emergency Center (NCVEC) was established to provide modern emergency and critical care services to the pets of Northwest Indiana. Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, NCVEC is equipped to handle most emergency situations. Staffed with 9 veterinarians and 45 other employees who have extensive experience in emergency medicine, NCVEC Practice Manager, Heather Barbour, stated, “NCVEC is built specifically to handle pet emergencies.” With on-site diagnostics, including laboratories, digital X-ray, and ultrasound, the emergency center is prepared for a wide variety of problems, from lacerations to being hit by a car and much more. Working in close collaboration with Purdue University, NCVEC is able to use “some of the most innovative approaches and cutting-edge technologies available.” With the addition of a new facility recently opened in Highland, Northwest Indiana pet owners can now rest assured that quality, emergency veterinary care is nearby and ready to help.

BUSINESSSNAPSHOTS

MCAFEE ANIMAL HOSPITAL651 Eastport Centre Dr.

Valparaiso, IN 46383 (219) 464-5901 mcafeeah.com

Management: Dr. Brooke McAfee, VeterinarianChamber Member Since: 1998

McAfee Animal Hospital has been a family institution since its inception when John McAfee opened a large animal clinic in 1943. Since then, the practice has changed to a small animal hospital, and both John’s son, Larry, and his granddaughter, Brooke, have been veterinarians there. “The practice has always been family and community oriented,” says Dr. Brooke McAfee. The 5 veterinarians and 30 staff members are there to provide their patients and their owners with the best care possible. McAfee explains, “The staff treats the animals as if they are their own.” Services offered at McAfee range from routine preventative care and laser therapy to boarding and surgery. McAfee finds many aspects of her work rewarding, but none more so than seeing the transformation of a sick animal. “Dogs can’t talk, so you have to figure out what is wrong with them, and then it’s very rewarding when we’re able to make that dog better.”

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VALE PARK ANIMAL HOSPITAL 2606 Valley Dr. Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 (219) 462-5785 valeparkanimalhospital.com

Management: Dr. Jerry Rodenbarger, VeterinarianChamber Member Since: 1990

Vale Park Animal Hospital opened its doors in the late 70s; however, it was not purchased by Dr. Jerry Rodenbarger until 1990. Since then, the facility has doubled in size and has gone from 4 employees to 48. Vale Park employs 5 veterinarians with a wide range of interests and training, including but not limited to the following: laparoscopic and laser surgery, orthopedics, reproduction, alternative medicine, and oncology. “Our focus is to do everything we possibly can to exceed our caregivers’ expectations,” stated Rodenbarger. They are able to do this by having a large support staff to assist with patients’ needs and “treating each patient as if it were our own pet.” To Rodenbarger, the best part of being a veterinarian at Vale Park is the wonderful yet challenging aspects of the job. “I enjoy solving the puzzle-figuring out what’s wrong and fixing it.”

VALPARAISOCHAMBER.ORG

NEW MEMBER INVESTORS

Alive and Well Health and Wellness219-309-9917Mari J. HahnHealth & Wellness Products & Servicesmarijhahn.com

Allstate Joseph Finelli Agency3534 Calumet Ave219-477-5556Joe FinelliInsuranceagents.allstate.com/joseph-finelli-valparaiso-in

Aperion Care Valparaiso3301 N Calumet Ave219-462-0508Cari BranshawNursing Homes & Assisted Living Facilitiesaperioncare.com

CertaPro Painters1120 Arrowhead Ct.Crown Point, 46307219-213-2349John JordanPaint Products/Servicesschererville.certapro.com

CORE Construction Indiana, LLC833 Lincoln Hwy, Ste 120Schererville, 46375219-961-4325Missi BogaardConstructioncoreconstruction.com

Diversified Marketing Strategies1330 Arrowhead CtCrown Point, 46307219-226-0300Ted LykowskiAdvertising, Creative, & Marketing Servicesthinkdiversified.com

Dunes Hospice, LLC4711 Evans Ave888-602-9004Wendy Warner, RNHospiceduneshospicellc.com

HitchedAttractions888-506-0910Rick DahlRecreationhitchedattractions.com

How Sweet It Is Events601 Lincolnway219-477-5116Linda WalkerBridal Products/Serviceshowsweetitisevents.com

Ironwood Brewing Co., LLC6 Roosevelt Rd219-405-4644Barbara KeheBrewery/Brewery Supplies

Joesten Change Management160 Roskin RdPorter, 46304219-728-8256Michael JoestenConsultantsproactivestructuralchange.com

Larson-Danielson ConstructionCo., Inc.302 Tyler StLaPorte, 46350219-362-2127Terry A. LarsonConstructionldconstruction.com

N.I. Elevators, Inc.11000 Wynbrook DrCrown Point, 46307312-241-1242Cheri ReadElevator Services/Installationnielevators.com

Prime Parking Solutions, LLC13 Lincolnway, Ste 301714-914-5980Grant BellParking Lot/Street Maintenance & ServicesSpecial Event Planning/Products/Servicesprimeparkingsolutions.com

S.T.A. RoofTechs, LLC55 Morthland Dr, Ste B219-671-7470Philip YankauskasRoofingstarooftechs.com

Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling1575 S Calumet DrChesterton, 46304219-926-1129Dan LeensvaartPlumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioningsummersphc.com

Trail 95 N Washington St708-320-8643Mike MichalakWeb Page Design/Managementtrail9.com

Valley Fire Protection Systems8635 Louisiana PlMerrillville, 46410219-472-0083Michelle PorterFire Protection Systemsvalleyfireindiana.com

Valpo Referral Network1101 Cumberland Crossing Dr, #281219-286-2211Travis WatersOrganizations

Your Finance Solution301 Appletree Ln312-206-8600Jason Roe, CPAAccountants/Tax Servicesyourfinancebizsolution.com

Zounds Hearing of Valparaiso3125 Calumet Ave, Ste 9219-789-1203Kevin HandHearing Products & Professional Serviceszoundshearing.com

VALPOCHAMBER.ORG 25

The Valpo Chamber welcomes board-approved new members who joined during December 2014, January 2015 and February 2015.

Interested in joining the largest and most active chamber in Northwest Indiana? Contact Danielle Oeding at (219) 462-1105 or [email protected].

All addresses are in the 46383 zip code and phone numbers are 219 area code unless otherwise indicated.

AROUND TOWNAround Town is an important element to the local business coverage of Valparaiso Magazine. Submissions by chamber member businesses are given preferences. Articles are business announcements - i. e. awards, new additions to staff or promotion of title, and change of business location. Sales promotions, advertisments, or coupon ads may not be accepted. Around Town submissions must be 130 words or less, are subject to approval, and may be edited.

Ben Zimmer of Anderson Insurance in Valparaiso, IN, a Keystone Insurers Group partner, received the Top Producer award for 2014 for the state of Indiana. Ben’s new production qualified him as the 5th highest producer out of all Keystone agents. Keystone is the largest privately held insurance agency group in U.S. with partners in Indiana, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Virginia, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, Illinois and Missouri.”


Epic Limo Inc. of Valparaiso is pleased to announce that it has acquired Cedar Mill Limousine of Crown Point. This is a merger of two innovative companies which have been providing Northwest Indiana with outstanding luxury transportation. By combining two market leaders with locations in both Lake and Porter Counties, they will be uniquely positioned to provide superior service along with offering the largest, most diverse fleet of luxury vehicles in the area. Operating solely under the EPIC LIMO INC. brand, you can continue to rely on the same professional and courteous service you have become accustomed to in the past. They look forward to continuing to provide reliable transportation service to Northwest Indiana.

The Family & Youth Services Bureau received The Community Education Award in December 2014 from the Indiana Youth Services Association. IYSA Chief Advancement Officer Michele Whelchel states, “The Community Education Award is presented to the agency in the state making the most significant impact on their community. By coordinating or facilitating community and school events, this agency has led the charge to save the lives of young people in their community by raising awareness about issues that affect area youth.” Committed to addressing issues that affect local families, the Family & Youth Services Bureau hosts the Family Life Workshops six times each year covering topics of interest to parents, educators, and social service professionals; offers presentations to schools and organizations on critical issues specific to each group; and in 2014 was instrumental in bringing IYSA’s Making Good Decisions program and the Lifeline Law to the attention of the local community. Established in 1972, FYSB currently provides 22 programs and services to over 4,000 Porter County residents.

FirstLight Home Care of Northwest Indiana, where extraordinary people give exceptional care, has been named Number One Franchise of 2014 by FirstLight Home Care Corporation . This is the second year in a row that they have earned this prestigious award. Home Care Pulse has also awarded FirstLight their Best of Home Care award for 2014. First Light Home Care of Northwest Indiana takes great pride and pleasure in delivering quality care to our clients. They are located in historic downtown Valparaiso at 15 N. Franklin Street serving Lake, Porter, Jasper and LaPorte counties in Indiana and are in the process of expanding with a planned office in Schererville. To find out more about First Light Home Care of Northwest Indiana, please call 219-510-5775.

VALPOCHAMBER.ORG 27

The Grossbauer Group’s internal rebranding project was chosen as one of the top 10 designs in the Midwest in the 2014 PRINT Regional Design Annual. Nearly 4,000 entries were evaluated, and regional winners were selected based on communication concepts, strategy, and execution. To learn about integrated marketing, branding, and design services offered by The Grossbauer Group, please call 219-926-1000 or email [email protected].

Mari J Hahn, author of Gut Guide 101:Three Weeks to Better Digestion and Increased Energy, is pleased to announce the launch of Alive and Well Health and Wellness, a new business offering one-on-one health coaching and wellness workshops. This month the Alive and Well website goes live at www.marijhahn.com. There you can schedule and pay for Lunch and Learn wellness workshops for your business as well as one-on-one health coaching sessions. The site also contains resources for improving your health and a link to purchase a copy of Hahn’s book Gut Guide 101: Three Weeks to Better Digestion and Increased Energy. Contact Hahn at [email protected] call at 877-262-9140 today!

Meeting Achievements recently announced its new location at 4001 Calumet, Suite B, Valparaiso, Indiana, approximately one mile from its old location. The new location for the meeting and event planning firm means improved client service and room for growth. “We were fortunate to find such a nice space so close to our current office. We really wanted to limit the impact that relocation could have on our clients and our employees. I don’t think we could have found a better location for our team. Our new location and enhanced operational efficiencies will help us continue to grow and evolve to keep pace with our clients’ needs, allowing us to provide exceptional value and superior service along the way,” said Polly Rossi, Meeting Achievements President. For more information, contact them at 219-465-1115, or www.meetingacheivements.com.

Metro Recycling is excited to announce the addition of two new services and the opening of a fourth location. Lowell, Indiana is the new home of Metro Recycling’s fourth facility. This new facility, opening April 2015, will feature a buy-back center, similar to their other three locations. They will also be offering two new services, commercial paper recycling and dumpster rental. The new dumpsters, or “Green Containers,” are equipped to handle both waste and recyclable items. Metro Recycling’s main goal is to divert as much recyclable material from landfills as possible. With the addition of these new services, their mission remains the same; providing quality services while helping maintain a sustainable environment. For more information please visit www.wheredoirecycle.com.

The Indiana Hospital Association (IHA) recently recognized Porter Regional Hospital for their work to reduce patient harm by 40 percent and readmissions by 20 percent over the past three years. The recognition is based on the results of a national campaign known as Partnership for Patients, created by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to improve quality and patient safety at hospitals nationwide. “All of our physicians and staff at Porter Regional Hospital should feel proud of the improvements we have achieved in regard to patient safety and quality,” said Chief Quality Officer Rayanna Henderson. “By collaborating with IHA and applying the best practices that have been proven to work in our industry, we can provide even better treatment for our patients.”


St Agnes Adult Day Service Center is planning a free Alzheimer’s Symposium to share valuable information for caregivers who are caring for someone with the disease. Our initiative is to disseminate educational materials to raise awareness of the disease. The symposium will be held on Wednesday, April 22nd at St. Paul’s Catholic Church 1855 Harrison Blvd. Valparaiso and will feature local board-certified neurologist, Virgil DiBiase, MD speaking on treatment and evaluation of Alzheimer’s, and Attorney William Green to discuss long-term planning for the family. Also planned are exhibits including specialists from organizations that offer services to those affected by Alzheimer’s. For information call 219-728-1106.

To Submit Around Town entries, call 219.462.1105 or send to [email protected] Attn: Editor.

AROUND TOWN

Taltree Arboretum & Gardens and St. Mary Medical Center recently received a grant from the Legacy Foundation to administer outdoor learning field trips focused on health education in nature. Interested teachers should email Taltree’s reservations department at [email protected]. Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Schools must be located in Lake County, Indiana to qualify.

Valparaiso Events is looking for creative designs for the 2015 Valparaiso Popcorn Festival Poster Contest. The winning entry will be the marketing focus for this year’s event and the winning artist will receive bragging rights along with $1000! The runner up will receive $300. Entries can be delivered to the Valparaiso Events Office at 150 W. Lincolnway, Suite 1006. The deadline for submission is Monday, April 27 at noon. Criteria and additional details can be found at www.ValparaisoEvents.com on the Popcorn Festival Event Page. Contact Valparaiso Events with questions at (219) 464-8332.

Valparaiso University’s Graduate School is seeking Summer and Fall internship sites with Valparaiso businesses and organizations to place graduate students who are currently enrolled in a variety of professional master’s programs, including Sports Administration, Information Technology, Cyber Security, Health Administration, and Arts & Entertainment Administration. Internships generally span one or two semesters, with students working 20 to 40 hours per week. Intern duties should be professionally-focused and must relate to the students’ areas of study. Valpo’s graduate programs are consistently ranked among the best in the Midwest and emphasize experiential “hands on” learning for an internationally-diverse and highly qualified pool of students. If your organization is interested in hosting interns, please contact Jamie Haney, Associate Director of Academic Services & Internships, at [email protected]. For more information about Valpo’s graduate programs, visit www.valpo.edu/grad.

VALPOCHAMBER.ORG 29

1201 Cumberland Crossing Dr. • Valparaiso • 219-464-1006

Welcoming New Patients at the Valparaiso Family YMCA

Our doctor is where the action is…

Dr. Jerry KunaFamily Medicine

Larry HitzBroker/Owner

Executive Group Real Estate2612 Calumet Avenue

Valparaiso, IN

[email protected]

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Life

VALPOCHAMBER.ORG 31

A LOOK BACK...

By Kevin Matthew Pazour, executive directorPorter County Museum

esidents of the Valparaiso community have had a deep love for pets since our founding. One outstanding illustration of this point is the Valparaiso Fire Department’s tradition of canine mascots. “Old Joe” was the first mascot to occupy a place in the hearts of the citizens as well as firemen.

Old Joe was a large English bull terrier and supposedly a star of the Lewis Brothers Three-Ring Circus & Trained Animal Show in the late 1920’s and early 1930’s. He was a circus dog, featured in the show as a bareback rider of broad-backed mares that loped around the show ring, often with other trained dogs.

On May 28, 1935, the Lewis Brothers Three-Ring Circus came to Valparaiso and set up to perform twice along the Williams Circus Grounds on Route 30. Old Joe was one of approximately two-dozen dogs that were part of the circus act.

The real story may never be known, but a 1961 newspaper article by William Wallace explained that a producer of the bareback riding act thought Old Joe was too old and worn out to travel with the organization and simply could not do his act anymore.

A local firefighter crossed paths with Old Joe and rescued him from receiving a pass to the hereafter of Dogdom.

From that point on, Old Joe became the Valparaiso Fire Department’s mascot—a position he held for two years. For quite some time Old Joe was able to climb up to the driver’s seat and ride to the fires. He even learned the sound of the alarm and was often the first to respond.

As Old Joe aged, he had difficulty performing his normal duties. He often remained by the firemen’s cots until the equipment returned to the station. When the veterinarian gave him a gentle exit at the animal hospital, The Vidette-Messenger published his picture and gave him a nice obituary in the August 2, 1937 edition of the paper. His heavy, brass-studded harness went on a hanger, as a memorial, inside the Central Fire Station in Valparaiso.

There have been countless other department mascots in Valparaiso, each finding a niche in the affections of the people who live here, but perhaps none with such an outstanding story as Old Joe, the circus dog.

R


2015

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VALPOCHAMBER.ORG 33

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

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WITH A 2” X 2” AD Reach 18,000+ Readers Quarterly! Call Danielle Oeding, at the Valpo Chamber.(219) 462-1105 | [email protected]


OUR CORNER2014 was another banner year for the Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce. We celebrated our many achievements and paid tribute to those who have done so much for our community at the Salute to Leadership Dinner and Annual Membership Meeting in January. And while we are proud of our achievements, we are equally optimistic for what is yet to come. We have set an ambitious agenda for 2015 built on the principles laid out in our mission statement. I’m proud to say that after two short months, we are well on our way to meeting those goals.

Our guide is a new strategic plan that takes aim at education, community engagement and the value of membership. Education is fundamental to economic growth. Among other things we will advocate for and encourage programs that provide a technical education track as an option for our public schools along with a college track. We will study the impact of the upcoming referendum and provide perspective from the business community. We will continue building partnerships with educators and job creators throughout the region – partnerships that will lead to more responsive and relevant workforce solutions to meet the needs of employers.

As the principal advocate for business our plan also calls for our continued civic engagement. We will work to meet this objective by developing positions and providing a voice on key issues at both state and federal levels. Much of this work is done through committee work utilizing our extensive network of community leaders and professionals. We will continue dialogue with our partners working in conjunction with them to promote the economic health of the Valparaiso area.

We will work diligently this year to serve the needs of our members, large and small, by enhancing our networking and educational events. We will host quarterly Membership Luncheons centered on relevant business topics. We will provide development opportunities for members on how they might improve aspects of their business through periodic workshops. This year’s signature event will be the return of one of the most recognized names in professional development, the Disney Institute. This full-day presentation will share easily adaptable strategies and best practices focused on the subject of Customer Service.

Connectivity is at the heart of our strategic plan and everything we do. This spring you will be able to keep up with all the latest Chamber happenings through yet one more of our 2015 initiatives– the launch of our own mobile app. We will be accessible to not only our members, but the public, potential business investors and new comers looking at Valparaiso as their new home.

In the spirit of working towards a common goal – ensuring the quality of life in the great Valparaiso community, we invite you to join us, get involved and share your thoughts. Together we will make 2015 a year to remember.

By Deb Anselm

Deb Anselm2015 Valpo Chamber Board Member

Deb Anselm is General Manager, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for The Times Media Company.

Anselm joined The Times in 1996, working in various roles in the advertising and marketing departments. She was named retail advertising manager in 2006, and her duties were expanded again in 2009 when she was promoted to general manager of the company’s Porter County operations. Anselm was promoted again in September 2014 to her current position.

A graduate of Indiana University, Anselm serves on the Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors as chair. She also is on the boards of the Porter Starke Foundation, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Porter County and Opportunity Enterprises. She is very active in the community through various programs including Valparaiso Rotary Club and Kappa, Kappa, Kappa.

Anselm resides in Valparaiso with her husband Scott and their three children, Alissa, Zach and Emma.

NITCO Valpo Chamber Ad_NITCO ValpoChamber Ad Directory 4/4/14 11:39 AM Page 1

HEALTHIER EMPLOYEESCAN MEAN A HEALTHIER BOTTOM LINE.

Occupational Health and Corporate Wellness

The Porter Regional Hospital Health At Work program provides a full suite of job-related medical services, including access to

Service Coordinators 24/7. Our goals are to help prevent and reduce workplace illnesses and injuries, to avoid lost-time

accidents, and lower your healthcare-related expenditures. At Porter Regional Hospital, we know a healthy workforce

contributes to a healthy bottom line. To learn why more employers are choosing Porter Regional Hospital’s Health At

Work program, or to schedule a consult, call 219-263-7200.

• Workers’ injury treatment and management• Pre-employment screenings• DOT exams• Drug and breath alcohol testing• Respiratory clearance exams

• Audiometric and vision testing• On-site screenings• 24/7 access to injury treatment• Preventive health and wellness services

Portage Clinic Now OpenPortage Hospital

3630 Willowcreek Road, Portage

Valparaiso Clinic809 LaPorte Avenue, Valparaiso

Porter Regional Hospital is directly or indirectly owned by a partnership that proudly includes physician owners, including certain members of the hospital’s medical staff.

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healthy pets,

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