Northwest Indiana’s Leading Business Magazine Since 1991

Women in Business n Health Care Honors n Emerging Young Attorneys n Education

SUMMER–FALL 2014

Serving Greater Northwest Indiana and Surrounding Counties

HEALTHIER AT HOME HealthCall technology helps hospitals reduce readmissions.

Daniel Hayes President and CEO HealthCall LLC 30 miles to Chicago Loop 6 miles to

Merrillville, Indiana

PURDUE RESEARCH PARK

Crown Point, Indiana Thank You for naming Franciscan Alliance hospitals, medical and fitness facilities among the Best in Northwest Indiana Business in several categories!

2014 HEALTH CARE HONORS 2014 BEST OF Advancements In Health Care NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS Bronchial Thermoplasty at Best Occupational Health Practice Franciscan St. Margaret Health Franciscan WorkingWell Compassionate Care Best Urgent/Immediate Care Clinic Franciscan Alliance Franciscan Hammond Clinic Best Health and Wellness Facility Franciscan Omni Health & Fitness One of the Best Companies to Work For Franciscan Alliance

The Northern Indiana hospitals of Franciscan Alliance continue to receive accolades from health care ratings organizations and readers of local newspapers and business magazines. The honors reflect Franciscan Alliance’s ongoing commitment to bring together the best services for patients and customers using the most modern technology, and exceptional people who minister with joy, care and compassion.

FranciscanAlliance.org Northwest Indiana Business Quarterly SUMMER–FALL 2014 contents PUBLISHER’S NOTE 5 Changes Bring Opportunities The region’s businesses, such as HealthCall, innovate and thrive. NOTEWORTHY NEWS BITS FROM... 6 Around the Region COVER STORY 16 The Personal Touch HealthCall pioneers an automated way to keep patients from returning to the hospital.

WOMEN AT THE HELM Pat Huber of the Crown Point SPECIAL FOCUS: WOMEN IN BUSINESS p20 Community Foundation builds connections with donors. 20 Accomplished Women Meet some of the leaders of the region’s community foundations. INSURANCE 25 Safe Haven Properly insuring your business is a matter of thinking the unthinkable. EDUCATION 30 The Brains for Business Campuses taking the lead in encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship. SPECIAL FEATURE 36 Health Care Honors Our readers suggest some of the region’s standouts in medical care. BUSINESS LAW 39 Emerging Young Attorneys p30 p48 Making a difference by serving RESOURCE FOR EXEMPLARY LEADER clients and communities alike. ENTREPRENEURS Cynthia Award-winner Roberts of Purdue University Michael Griffin, North Central encourages Highland clerk- Cover photo by Shawn Spence innovation. treasurer. 2 SUMMER–FALL 2014 Northwest Indiana’s Original AACSB School

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iun.edu/mba MARKETING 44 Marketing Strategies Reaching consumers through social media, public relations and word of mouth. SPECIAL FEATURE 48 Leaders as Heroes South Shore Leadership Awards recognize “our region’s greatest asset.” ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 51 “Open for Business” Businesses that had been on the sidelines are ready to expand or relocate and the region is ready. SPORTS 56 A Special Place Gary’s U.S. Steel Yard, home of the RailCats, where a child’s game is a way of life. PUBLIC SERVICE ROLE MODEL Dr. G. Larsen Kneller gets p36 perfect 10s on patient satisfaction surveys. 57 Little City By the Lake Whiting celebrates its 125th year with a long list of big plans. SMALL BUSINESS PROFILE 58 Hoosier Spring Co. SBA recognizes Mike Suth as Indiana Small Business Person of the Year. MAKING A DIFFERENCE 61 Nurturing Innovation Pfeil Innovation Center serves businesses and organizations alike. MADE IN INDIANA 62 Giving Business a Lift Vermette Machine Co. products move kegs, signs and other heavy items. LEGAL ADVICE 63 Changing Definitions Businesses must keep an eye on the courts and be ready to adapt to new marriage laws. VIEWPOINT 64 Extend the South Shore Line Thousands of jobs and new prosperity will ride into the region.

ROLLING OUT EXPANSIONS Businesses p4 51NORTHWESTare ready INDIANA to grow BUSINESS in the region. QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 PUBLISHER’S NOTE Summer–Fall 2014 Changes Bring Opportunities

Publisher/Executive Editor/Advertising GLEE RENICK-MAY The region’s businesses, such as Glee Renick-May Managing Editor JANE BOKUN HealthCall, innovate and thrive. Contributing Editor STEVE KAELBLE he health care industry, like the Community Foundation of St. Assistant Editor it or not, has been greatly Joseph County has several initia- DENISE C. BUSCHMANN impacted by the Afford- tives, including the African American Administrative Assistant T REBECCA L. ISAACS able Care Act. And with the ongo- Community Fund, receiving national ing changes, opportunities grow for attention. Art Director ANDREW ROBERTS aspiring entrepreneurs, such as Dan Today’s young attorneys are Contributing Art Director Hayes, whose HealthCall LLC cre- remarkably bright, resourceful JANICE L. DIXON-FITZWATER ates software products designed to and committed to their communi- Photographers help contain costs and reduce errors. ties. Inside this issue, meet some of PETE DOHERTY SHAWN SPENCE Hayes shares his story about how tomorrow’s leaders in the legal pro- this all began and how his business fession who are giving back to their Contributing Writers JANE BOKUN • PHILLIP BRITT idea, housed in the Purdue Technol- communities, offering their talents LAUREN CAGGIANO • JERRY DAVICH ogy Center, Crown Point, was ahead and expertise at a younger age. BILL HANNA • SHARI HELD JACQUELINE VON OGDEN • MICHAEL PUENTE of its time. What if the unthinkable happens? CASSIE RICHARDSON • BEN SMITH Institutions of higher learning are Do you have enough insurance to NANCY TOWNSEND • HEIDI PRESCOTT WIENEKE teaching students about innovation protect your business? We offer advice Editorial Advisory Committee JOHN DAVIES • KATHY DEGUILIO FOX and entrepreneurship. “There is a from insurance experts—whether BARBARA GRIMSGARD • CAROL HIGHSMITH movement now toward entrepreneur- your business is existing or a startup, KEITH KIRKPATRICK • NICOLE MACKOWSKI JANIS MORAN • LEIGH MORRIS ship,” says Dan Hasler, president and you will get more insight on if you are EVELYN MORRISON • MARY WELLNITZ CEO of the Purdue Research Founda- well-insured or underinsured. LINDA WOLOSHANSKY tion. University faculty members work As a media sponsor, we recognize Circulation REBECCA L. ISAACS with students to bring those ideas those who are this year’s South Shore to life. Undergrads are successfully Leadership Award recipients, who New Media JANICE L. DIXON-FITZWATER launching small businesses before are making a huge difference in their Tech Support graduation. Learn more inside. communities. JASON CRUNDWELL Meet the leading ladies who run We also address the ever-changing KIT MALONE multimillion-dollar foundations, whose definition of marriage in our legal e-mail: [email protected] web: www.nwibq.com responsibilities and decision making advice department. Will Indiana ever be visit us at facebook.com/nwibq affect the lives of many. For exam- a state that recognizes same-sex mar- ple, the Unity Foundation focuses riage? on strengthening communities, while —Glee Renick-May, Publisher

Northwest Indiana Business Quarterly is owned and published by May Communications Group, LLC, Glee Renick-May, president and CEO. CONNECT WITH US CONNECT WITH US © Copyright 2014. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited.

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SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 5 NOTEWORTHY NEWS BITS FROM... Around the Region ACCOUNTING financial information preparation AGRICULTURE Michelle Gonzalez, accounting and reporting for the 47-year-old Purdue Extension dairy manage- manager and CPA with Laciak CPA, Valparaiso-based non-profit organi- ment specialist Michael Schutz was appointed to the board of direc- zation, whose mission is to maximize has been appointed director of tors for Opportunity Enterprises. self-sufficiency and enrich the quality Extension’s agriculture and natu- Gonzalez brings nearly 15 years of of life for people with disabilities. ral resources programs in Indiana. accounting experience to assist with Schutz will oversee Purdue Exten- sion programs in such areas as farm management and safety, livestock, crops, energy, youth in agriculture, environmental stewardship and AN ADVISOR WHO IS IN YOUR wildlife. Schutz received the Shar- velle Award as Purdue’s outstand- ing extension specialist in 2008 and COMMUNITY. the Steven Atkisson Indiana Dairy AND IS pROUD tO be HeRe. Service Award in 2012.

BANKING Pamela Brown has been promoted to OSJ compliance officer of Centier Bank in Merrillville and has been a member of Centier Bank’s Wealth Management Department since 2002. A graduate of Purdue University Calumet, Brown supervises regis- tered investment representatives and administrative assistants, managing compliance rules and regulations … Bill Winterhaler also joins Cen- Merrill Lynch is committed to serving individuals and businesses in tier Bank as vice president of busi- Northwest Indiana. A Merrill Lynch Financial Advisor can help you develop ness banking. Winterhaler has more a customized strategy that combines financial know-how with a deep understanding of who you are. We are proud to be here. than 20 years of experience in lend- ing and management positions and is an Indiana University graduate … Jesse Dame has been promoted to Merrill Lynch vice president and brings 10 years 707 East 80th Place of industry experience, previously Merrillville, IN 46410 working as both a commercial loan officer and credit officer … Nikko (866) 637-0868 Grant joins Centier Bank in Carmel as a seasoned mortgage lender with national loan originating experience with responsibilities of mortgage loan origination, mortgage team recruit- ment and training … Michael D. Cahill has joined dozens of busi- ness leaders from throughout the state to serve on the board of Centier The Bull Symbol, Merrill Lynch Wealth Management and The Power of the Right Advisor are trademarks or registered trademarks of Bank. Cahill is a CPA and CEO of the Bank of America Corporation. AWS Foundation. A career banker Merrill Lynch Wealth Management makes available products and services offered by Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, a registered broker-dealer and member SIPC, and other subsidiaries of Bank of America Corporation. with more than 30 years of banking © 2013 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. experience, Cahill is former president AD-08-13-0733 ARX4L5M4-08-12 452100PM-08/2013 and CEO of Tower Bank. He is an active resident of the Fort Wayne

6 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 community … John B. Willis also used to support two projects, one EDUCATION has joined Centier Bank’s board. in Lake County and one in Porter Purdue University’s Board of Trust- Willis is president and CEO of MBAH County, which combined would ees recently ratifiedPurdue Uni- Insurance of Lafayette, where he result in approximately $33 million versity Calumet faculty members has worked for more than 23 years. in investment and the creation of up Kuan-Chou Chen as the Thomas M. to 285 jobs. Further details remain McDermott Sr. Professor in Economic CONSTRUCTION confidential pending completionDevelopment and Cyril Pat Obi National construction company MC of the deals. No RDA funds will be as the White Lodging Professor of Industrial announced Shawn Hal- issued if the projects do not come Finance in Hospitality and Tourism stead has joined the firm as senior into fruition. Management. Chen, professor and estimator. With nearly three decades of experience, Halstead’s responsi- bilities include estimating construc- tion projects in Northwest Indiana, the Chicago area and nationwide … Construction excellence was focal point for the 2014 Northwest Indiana Business Roundtable (NWIBRT)/Construction Advance- LARSON ment Foundation (CAF) award winners. NWIBRT’s awards focused on recognizing safety excellence, and the CAF’s awards celebrated innova- DANIELSON tive projects and industry achieve- Construction Company, Inc. ment. CAF 2014 Award Winners Quality Construction since 1908 include: Excellence in Professional Development, The Ross Group Inc.; Maintenance/Service Contract Work, Thatcher Foundations Inc., ArcelorMittal Dock Repair; Industrial- Capital Project of the Year, Gray- cor Industrial Constructors Inc., NIPSCO WFGD Project; Commercial Project of the Year, The Pangere Corp. Construction Advancement Safety Institute; Public Works Project of the Year, Superior Construction Co. Inc., Whiting Lake Front Revital- Design/Build ization Project; Commercial Contrac- tor of the Year, Hasse Construction Construction Management Co. Inc.; Industrial Contractor of the Year, BMWC Constructors; Profes- General Contracting sional Engineering Contractor of the Year, Falk-PLI Engineering & Sur- Facility Services veying; Specialty Contractor of the Year, Thatcher Foundations Inc.; and Highway Contractor of the Year, Walsh & Kelly Inc.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT The board of directors for the North- west Indiana Regional Develop - 219.362.2127 ldconstruction.com ment Authority authorized use of $2.3 million from the RDA’s No- 302 tyler street la porte, in 46350 Interest Securitized Forgivable Loan Fund to support job creation efforts in Northwest Indiana. Funds will be

SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 7 Michael Schutz Bill Winterhaler Pamela Brown Shawn Halstead head of the Department of Informa- design of a shared facility. The three- occupy about 30 percent. The remain- tion Systems, Finance and Business story, 133,500-square-foot arts and ing space will house shared class- Analytics, joined Purdue Calumet in sciences building will house multiple rooms, focus and breakout spaces 2002. Obi, a Purdue Calumet faculty programs of both campuses, includ- and informal study spaces … The member since 1989, is a professor ing IU Northwest fine and perform- first-ever class of Woodrow Wilson of finance and a frequent presenter ing arts programs, Ivy Tech science MBA Fellows in Education Leader- about financial-related topics. His programs, shared classrooms and ship and the 2014 class of Woodrow research areas include corporate informal study spaces. The facility Wilson Indiana Teaching Fellows financial analysis, financial planning, will include a 500-seat performing have been named by the Wood- business valuation and risk manage- arts venue and a smaller black-box row Wilson National Fellowship ment. Both professors are Munster theater for IU Northwest. Ivy Tech’s Foundation, which administers both residents … Indiana University, plans include developing a “one-stop programs. The class includes seven together with Ivy Tech Community shop” for enrollment and admission fellows who will attend Valparaiso College, received IU Board of Trust- services. IU Northwest will occupy University … The role of Purdue ees’ approval to proceed with the about half the building, Ivy Tech will University Calumet vice chancel-

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8 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 Your risk. Your needs. Our Focus.

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meyersglaros.com lor of information services Sarah ter’s and doctorate degrees from the on superior business results … Wells E. Howard has been expanded University of Texas at Arlington. Fargo Advisors has for the second to include I.S. oversight at Purdue consecutive year designated Clif- University North Central. Effective ENTERTAINMENT ford Bryan, senior vice president – immediately, Howard becomes the The Morris Performing Arts investment officer, as a member of fifth administrator to assume respon- Center received a TripAdvisor Cer- the firm’s Premier Advisors Program, sibilities at both campuses since the tificate of Excellence award. The for meeting or exceeding Wells Fargo Feb. 26 announcement of intentions accolade, which honors hospitality Advisors’ standards as measured by to unify Purdue Calumet and Purdue excellence, is given only to estab- one or more of the firm’s criteria North Central … Efforts by Purdue lishments that consistently achieve for revenue generation, educational University Calumet professor of outstanding traveler reviews on Trip­ attainment and client-service best mechanical engineering George Advisor, and is extended to qualify- practices. Bryan has been a financial Nnanna and engineering alum- ing businesses worldwide. advisor with Wells Fargo Advisors for nus Hasnain Jalal have produced five years, with 19 years’ experience a U.S. patent for the university and FINANCE in the brokerage industry. He holds its Water Institute. Nnanna, direc- Erik W Brenner, private wealth a bachelor’s degree from Valparaiso tor of the Water Institute, head of advisor with Ameriprise Financial University and an MSBA in Finance the Department of Mechanical Engi- in Mishawka, was recently named from Indiana University. neering and a Crown Point resident, to the 2014 Chairman’s Advisory and Jalal of Chittagong, Bangladesh, Council. Brenner, managing partner GOVERNMENT developed an oxazine-based optical at Hilltop Wealth Solutions, once The Hebron Volunteer Fire sensor for online continuous detec- again qualified for the prestigious Department received a $15,262 tion of ammonia contaminants in Chairman’s Advisory Council based grant under the Federal Emergency water delivery systems. Nnanna has on distinguished performance and Management Agency’s Assistance to served Purdue Calumet since 2002 client service. The Chairman’s Advi- Firefighters Grant (AFG) program. and holds a baccalaureate degree sory Council was established in 1984 The grant will allow for building from Texas Tech University and mas- and advisors qualify each year based upgrades and the ability to partner

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10 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 Sarah Howard Erik Bremmer Geoffrey Schwartz David Burke with Porter Regional Hospital to HealthLinc will receive $1,330,537 Porter Physician Group. Dr. Lai obtain a second ambulance in the from the U.S. Department of Health joins fellow urologists Dr. Adam south Porter County area. and Human Services as a continuing Perlmutter and Dr. John Lynam in grant under the Health Resources practice at Lakeshore Urology. The HEALTH CARE and Services Administration Fiscal group has offices in Valparaiso, Leslie Darrow has been named Year 2014 Service Area Competition. Portage, Knox, LaPorte and Plym- executive director of Hartsfield Federal funding will allow Health- outh … Neil Malhotra, M.D., an Village Continuing Care Retire- Linc to continue providing affordable emergency department physician at ment Community in Munster. primary care to patients, including Franciscan St. Anthony Health- Darrow, a licensed nursing home medical, dental, behavioral health Michigan City, received the hos- administrator, brings to the position and optometry services, regardless pital’s 2014 St. Luke Award. The 20 years of experience in long-term of patients’ level of health insurance award, presented since 2010, recog- care, including management of both coverage … Porter Health Care nizes physicians for their teamwork assisted living and skilled nurs- System welcomes Urologist Robert and cooperation with nursing staff ing facilities … Valparaiso-based Lai, M.D., to the hospital’s network, members. … Angela Zavesky, R.N.

SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 11 in the Franciscan St. Anthony has offices in Valparaiso and Crown of a series of courses and national Health-Michigan City Medical- Point. examinations covering the essentials Surgical unit, received the hos- of risk management, risk control, and pital’s 2014 St. Camillus Award … INSURANCE risk financing. Ashley Matthews has The Saint Joseph Regional Medi- Gibson welcomed Chris Watkins as been promoted to financial analyst in cal Center oncology program in an account manager, responsible for the Employee Benefits Practice. Her Mishawaka was awarded the 2013 the day-to-day service needs of cli- responsibilities with Gibson include Outstanding Achievement Award ents. Watkins’ responsibilities include providing support to new and exist- by the American College of Sur- making policy changes, issuing cer- ing employee benefit clients. Nicole geons Commission on Cancer. tificates of insurance and other ser- Fallowfield, CWP, CIC, has earned The award, established in 2004, vice needs as required. David Burke the Certified Intrinsic Coach desig- recognizes oncology programs that also joined Gibson as a loss preven- nation from Intrinsic Solutions strive for excellence in providing tion consultant in Risk Management International. Fallowfield is the the best quality care for patients … Services. Prior to joining Gibson in director of health risk management Porter Physician Group otolaryn- 2014, Burke was the environmental in the Employee Benefits Practice at gologist Geoffrey Schwartz, M.D., health and safety manager at Task Gibson and is responsible for design- with Associated ENT Specialists, Force Tips Inc., establishing envi- ing and overseeing health manage- recently received board certifica- ronmental compliance and permit ment strategies. tion from the American Board of processes while managing all aspects Otolaryngology. Dr. Schwartz is of the risk management and loss LEGAL a graduate of Boston University prevention programs. Diane David- Law firm Eichhorn & Eichhorn School of Medicine and attended son, CPCU, ARM of Gibson has been LLP recently opened an office in the State University of New York for awarded the Associate in Risk Man- the Edison Lakes Corporate Park in surgical internship and residency agement (ARM) from the Insurance Mishawaka to better serve its South in otolaryngology, head and neck Institute of America. Earning the Bend/Mishawaka and Northeast Indi- surgery. Associated ENT Specialists ARM designation requires completion ana area clients … Krieg DeVault of

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12 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 Who Centier?

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Preserving independent hometown banking for generations to come. Since 1895

1-888-CENTIER CENTIER.COM Member FDIC Mishawka recently announced Part- NONPROFIT business participation. These services ner and Health Care Practice Group South Shore Clean Cities Inc. of include: building cleaning services, leader Robert “Bob” A. Wade was Merrillville announced Dyer, East air filter sales, floor cleaning services, named as the compliance expert to Chicago, Hobart, LaPorte, Portage window cleaning and sales of janito- the board of Halifax Health, a 678- and Valparaiso will participate in the rial supplies. The Performance Com- bed hospital system based in Daytona Northwest Indiana Green Fleet panies have been family owned and Beach, Florida. Wade concentrates his program, with a goal to work with operated since 1917. practice in representing health care governmental fleets in Lake County, clients, including large health sys- LaPorte County and Porter County to TECHNOLOGY tems, hospitals, ambulatory surgical lessen the barriers to adopt alterna- Hobart-based Vinzant Software centers, physician groups, physicians tive fuels and create policies to sup- Inc. announced president and and other medical providers. port reductions of petroleum use and founder David Vinzant graduated vehicle emissions. from Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small MANUFACTURING Businesses program. Goldman Georganna Geraghty has joined PHILANTHROPY Sachs and Chicago City Colleges South Bend’s Schafer Industries Franciscan Medical Specialists selected 36 small business owners as corporate human resources man- Sleep Lab donated two complete from across metropolitan Chicago to ager. Geraghty who comes to Schafer bedroom furniture sets to Gabriel’s participate in the 16-week program, with nearly 25 years of HR man- Horn, the Valparaiso short-term co-sponsored by Goldman Sachs, agement experience in the Michi- shelter for homeless women. Bed- Chicago City Colleges, Babson Col- ana community will be responsible room sets included queen sized lege and other local organizations for developing policy, overseeing beds, frames, credenzas, lamps, focused on small business growth … training and directing and coordi- nightstands and bedding sets. The Brad Ebert joined the Vista AV Inte- nating human resources activities shelter provides a protected refuge gration sales team at Office Interi- such as employment compensation, for homeless women and their chil- ors in Granger. Ebert brings more employee relations, benefits and ser- dren by establishing and maintain- than 10 years of technical experience vices … Bremen Castings recently ing a facility that provides a safe and in the audio-visual industry, having celebrated a 75-year milestone and is temporary shelter and outreach ser- worked on various projects for many venturing into a new type of man- vices. organizations throughout the Michi- ufacturing with the debut of new ana area, including numerous educa- entity, BCI Defense LLC. Falling REAL ESTATE tional and corporate accounts. Vista under the Bremen Castings umbrella, Century 21 Alliance Group, a full- AV Integration, a subsidiary of Office BCI Defense will focus on the fire- service brokerage firm specializing in Interiors in Granger has been serving arms industry and manufacture a residential and commercial listings, Northern Indiana since 2003. product unique to the Indiana-based recently announced husband and company. wife Leroy and Lisa Moore as the top closing agents for year-to-date. BRIEFS MARKETING ELECTRIC VEHICLE Group 7even welcomed Ryan SAFETY PROGRAM GETS A CHARGE Berry to its team. Berry will serve David A. Ward Sr., owner and presi- as creative director and will play an dent of Safety By Design Consul- integral role in the conceptualization, tant Services, has been selected as strategy and design of Group 7even’s an honored member of the National creative projects. Berry, a graduate of Association of Distinguished Pro- Indiana State University, brings more fessionals. Ward, who holds a BS than 12 years of design experience… in occupational safety/health from Noreen Heron & Associates Inc., Columbia Southern University, has a full-service public relations, mar- more than 34 relevant years of expe- keting, advertising and social media rience in safety regulations. firm, announced several promotions within the company. Kate Hughes SERVICE CHARGED UP Initiative aims to energize and Lianne Wiker, both formerly The Performance Companies the use of electric vehicles. senior account executives, have Inc. (Performance Plus) received been promoted to vice presidents of Women Business Enterprise (WBE) Electric vehicle adoption is well the agency. Ellen Molina, formerly Certification, which allows Perfor- poised to blossom as Crown Point- assistant account executive, has been mance Plus to perform services which based South Shore Clean Cities and promoted to account executive. can be counted towards minority continued on page 55

14 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 Talk v. Walk

It’s easy to talk value – law firms do it all the time. At Barnes & Thornburg, we’d rather walk it than talk it. It’s a distinction our clients appreciate. They like their matters staffed with less leverage and more partner involvement. They like their lawyering practical, efficient, and predictable. Measuring value not by time spent, but by results obtained. By how well we have walked their particular walk.

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BTL_TalkvWalk_nwibq_R2.indd 1 3/20/14 3:47 PM COVER STORY

The Personal Touch HealthCall pioneers an automated way to keep patients from returning to the hospital.

by Shari Held He worked hard, another trait behavioral health and science and aunched in 2003, HealthCall he shared with his dad, and gradu- what makes people tick. His library LLC has successfully tran- ated from Purdue University in West includes Jim Bond’s “The Brain That L sitioned from a fledgling Lafayette with a double major in Changes Itself” and Kerry Johnson’s startup, operating on unchartered electrical engineering and business. “Science of Self Discipline,” and back waters, to an industry leader in auto- By that time his focus was on manu- in the ’90s he began working on his mated health care communications. facturing. five-year and 10-year business plan. For the past three years it has grown His first job was with Florida- The stage was set. at a rate of 20 percent year-over-year. based Harris Semiconductor (now Located in the Purdue Technology Intersil Americas LLC), working on TAKING THE LEAP Center of Northwest Indiana, Health- the commercial manufacturing side. Hayes launched Yescorp, a web Call’s solutions have connected more After rotating through all facets of application development firm, in than 3 million patients and providers manufacturing there, he was asked 1994 although he continued to con- nationwide. to manage the Apple account, even- sult with software startups. “We had At this point many entrepreneurs tually becoming worldwide account the idea to marry databases with the might think they’d succeeded, but manager for Apple Computer. web; we were really leading edge,” not Daniel Hayes, HealthCall’s presi- “I loved it,” Hayes says. “I traveled he says. “At that point people were dent and CEO. “We’re still a small to Singapore and all over the United still saying that the web was just a business and everyone puts in many States. It was just an incredible expe- fad and that it would die out. Seri- hours,” he says. “I am pleased with rience. I was very impressed with ously!” our growth, but we have more to do. Apple and how they did things. They As the company grew, it began The demand for our products contin- had a very strong entrepreneurial to specialize in applications specific ues to increase as the pressure builds spirit.” to medical communications and the on hospitals to reduce cost while That didn’t stop Hayes from leav- name no longer fit. Hayes did some improving care.” ing the world of manufacturing research and came up with the name Hayes’ dedication and drive—and integrated circuits to work with HealthCall, owned by a barely viable a bit of luck—have paid off. Health- California-based Cadence Design company. “We contacted the owner Call is well-positioned for the future. Systems, a company that created and were able to buy the intellectual Its products were reducing readmis- software used by Apple to design rights to the name,” Hayes says. sions years before the passage of the circuits. From there he began work- The idea for HealthCall came in Affordable Care Act, which began ing with software startup companies. 2003. Prior to the start of a meet- penalizing hospitals and physicians “It was a good education in product ing with a group of cardiologists last year for patient readmissions value and growing companies,” he for a different project, he overheard within 30 days of discharge. says. them discussing their “successful” Starting his own company was disease management program, and SETTING THE STAGE always appealing to Hayes. “At a very how unfortunate it was that they had Hayes, age 52, took a roundabout young age I loved building things to shut it down. “I asked why they route to entrepreneurship. His initial and making things,” he says. “From would end a ‘successful’ program,” interest was in electrical engineer- day one, it was always in the back of Hayes says, “and one of the doctors ing. “My dad was an electrician, so I my head to start my own company.” said, ‘it’s too expensive to operate, grew up around wires and was very A big reader, another trait he has but if you can find a way to cut our comfortable with that,” Hayes says. in common with his dad, Hayes costs, we will buy it.’” “It just seemed to make sense.” became fascinated with books on Hayes mulled it over while on his

16 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 COVER STORY

way to a lunch meeting, and as he was walking into Chili’s the idea came to him. “I thought, ‘There is a The Personal Touch way to do this.’” GIVING IT THE HealthCall pioneers an automated way PERSONALTOUCH™ Hayes and others sat with nurses to keep patients from returning to the hospital. who operated the existing disease management program. They listen to their patient calls, and asked many of questions that enabled HealthCall to build a method to automate their interactions. “Fortunately I had a longtime love for behavioral science, so I took to it naturally,” Hayes says. The result was PersonalTouch, the company’s flagship product, which today is used to coordinate care in disease management, medication therapy management, post-discharge monitoring of patients—any instance where hospitals or physicians need to stay in touch with patients and monitor their well-being over time. Since it’s a cloud-based solution, there’s no software or hardware to install. All that’s needed is an account with a user name and password and initial training to teach health care providers how to use the system. “It’s a complete turnkey solution,” Hayes says. Before being discharged, patients are assigned to an appropriate care plan based upon their diagnosis— heart failure, for instance. Person- alTouch manages everything that should be done for that patient over a 30-day window. It prompts health care providers when to follow up with patients, how to set expecta- tions, highlights the information health care providers should share and notes the key signs and symp- toms data to collect and enter into the system. The program also con- ducts automated health assessments directly with patients and alerts staff if a patient begins to trend outside the designated limits. “The coordi- SPENCE SHAWNSPENCE.COM SHAWN nated care, more timely commu- GOOD CALL Daniel Hayes’ HealthCall LLC uses technology nication and HealthCall’s intuitive to help keep patients from returning to the hospital.

SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 17 decision-support tools leads to pre- readmission rates by 72 percent—all dictable results with fewer readmis- while containing costs. “The coordinated sions,” Hayes says. The results were published with the Heart Failure Society of America, care, more timely MAKING AN IMPACT and a study of 300 patients the fol- Using PersonalTouch took the car- lowing year duplicated them. Patients communication diology practice’s disease manage- monitored with HealthCall actually ment program from six nurses down improved the health of their heart. and HealthCall’s to one, allowed the practice to serve After that the company began 35 more patients and reduced their expanding its offerings—heart fail- intuitive decision- support tools leads to predictable results with fewer readmissions.” —Daniel Hayes, HealthCall LLC

ure, heart attack, pneumonia, COPD and diabetes management programs, weight loss and stress management programs as well as surveys for patient satisfaction and appointment reminders. A major milestone was receiving $1.2 million in 2007 from the 21st Century Research & Technology Fund to further commercialize its technology. HealthCall was one of only three companies that actually achieved commercialization goals and commitments. HealthCall has continued to grow by word-of-mouth. In fact, Commu- nity Home Health of Indianapolis learned about PersonalTouch from a nurse who had used it at her pre- vious workplace. Now Community uses PersonalTouch to monitor home patients for heart failure, COPD and diabetes. “We’ve seen very posi- tive results,” says Lisa Collins, chief clinical and operations officer for Community Home Health, part of Community Health Network. “We’ve been able to help people with heart failure and COPD stay out of the hos- pital longer and actually change their behavior so they can do self-care to prevent future hospitalization. We’ve also seen some significant drops in A1Cs (blood-sugar level tests) in our diabetics.” Currently HealthCall is working with Collins to develop a hospice application.

18 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 COURTING SUCCESS and view setbacks as opportunities tion nationwide with thousands of AND CHALLENGES for growth. You have to have con- real patients every month.” It hasn’t been an easy road at times, fidence and focus on the positive.” As far as the future, Hayes sees the but it’s been a very satisfying one for HealthCall pioneered cloud-based PersonalTouch program offering new Hayes. “When I started in my career collaboration platforms and patient and expanded services to clients. working with integrated circuits, I was fascinated by the technology, but it was somewhat hollow,” he “We’ve been able to help people with says. “It wasn’t until I moved into health care that I really found my heart failure and COPD stay out of the passion. That’s when technology and behavioral health came together.” hospital longer and actually change their He recalls the time he was in a cli- ent’s office and witnessed a patient behavior so they can do self-care to giving a bouquet of flowers to the nurse who had monitored him. “He prevent future hospitalization.” called her his guardian angel,” Hayes says. “That’s when I experienced the —Lisa Collins, Community Home Health positive impact we were having in people’s lives. Up until then our out- engagement innovations, but the “Not only do our clients continue to comes were more theoretical.” field is rife with competition now. recommend us to their colleagues, Hayes advises potential entrepre- “Our competition is back where they also come to us with new chal- neurs to build a strong team and we were 10 years ago with only lenges of their own. Our growth is be persistent. “It doesn’t happen as theories,” Hayes says. “Along with fueled by our clients’ success as they fast as it does on TV,” he says. “You awards and demonstrated studies, are pressured to improve their qual- have to be able to stay the course PersonalTouch is proven in produc- ity of care and reduce cost.”

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SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 19 SPECIAL FOCUS: WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Accomplished Women Meet some of the leaders of the region’s community foundations.

by Jane Bokun has an interest in helping women. “We have a lot of roots here,” Huber s a woman with a lot of “We created a Women’s Fund says. “Foundation work is all about responsibility, Barb Young Giving Circle in 2008, raising over relationship building.” A heads up the Porter County $100,000 a year,” Young says. “We It’s about satisfying the needs of Foundation, which gives out more give away half of the money in high- both givers and receivers, she says. than $1 million in grants each year. impact grants which are causes that “People give you a gift and they want She began her career as a volun- help women and children.” to know that it’s the right thing.” teer for Porter County and has been According to its website, the Wom- Huber says she had more of a busi- affiliated with the foundation since en’s Fund Giving Circle was estab- ness background so she was able to its inception. She assumed the role lished by a group of passionate do lots of work including event plan- of president in 1998 and the founda- Porter County women. The Women’s ning. “You name it, we do it all,” she tion has flown ever since. Under her Fund of Porter County brings women says. “It is a labor of love.” direction, there has been successful together for the purpose of improv- In Huber’s latest venture, the Crown Point Community Foundation designed a venue for not-for-profits to show off their wares. “It’s sort of “It’s been a passionate endeavor like a trade show,” Huber says. and fun to watch.” She says when she saw there was a need, the foundation started to —Barb Young, Porter County Foundation spring into action and set up booth space for people in the community growth and leadership in addressing ing the quality of life for women and who wanted to be volunteers and key issues in Porter County. children in Porter County by collec- more. Last year there were 70 not- “We moved forward to create the tively funding high-impact grants for for-profits contributing. The differ- Porter County Foundation and I charitable initiatives with the same ent organizations found out each made a career change,” Young says. purpose. “It’s been a passionate other. “I am a lawyer and had practiced law endeavor and fun to watch,” Young “It was an enlightening experi- for 17 years,” Young says. She also says. ence,” Huber says. “It’s women was running a real estate develop- Young is not alone among women advancing women.” The program, ment company. As for the law and leading foundations. Indiana women which is still ongoing, was so suc- her business expertise, she says, “I have been successfully leading some cessful that they had to add a second use it every day.” area foundations for more than 20 session. Huber says the ideas some- Young says while she loves the years. times come fast and furious for foundation, she misses her friends Pat Huber, president of the Crown Crown Point and sometimes they’re in law. “I miss the people I worked Point Community Foundation, is just small ideas. with as a lawyer and some of them another in this group of dynamic The Crown Point Community are still my good friends,” Young business women. “I’m a true blue, Foundation also reviews grants says. longstanding member of the Crown three times each year for organiza- In her role as foundation director, Point community,” Huber says. tions serving Crown Point, Winfield, she says, she can always be grow- Hence, her job running the Crown Cedar Lake and south Lake County. ing the endowment assets for benefit Point Community Foundation since The foundation funds projects that of the community. Young says she 1999. She gained the experience include education, arts and projects enjoys creating new programs that after she and her family ran a junior that enhance the quality of life in can enhance her town. She especially department store that closed in 1996. the area. SHAWN SPENCE SHAWNSPENCE.COM SHAWN

20 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 SPECIAL FOCUS: WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Accomplished Women Meet some of the leaders of the region’s community foundations.

“FOUNDATION WORK IS ALL ABOUT RELATIONSHIP BUILDING,” says Pat Huber, president of the Crown Point Community Foundation, shown here at a trailhead for the foundation- supported Erie Lackawanna Trail.

SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 21 “We try to figure out a way Kelley School of Business at Indi- to engage people and get them ana University, where she honed her excited,” she says. “We make sure entrepreneurial skills. those programs are sustainable with “I was an entrepreneur and I came the resources they need to make cor- to be passionate about the Unity rect decisions.” Foundation,” Spartz says. She says Another in the circle of power she started with nothing but a great women is Maggi Spartz, who heads board of directors. Now the Unity up the Unity Foundation of LaPorte Foundation has a whopping $26 mil- County. Spartz is a graduate of the lion in assets. “We’re not just a char- Taking Care of Business. Business Counseling GENERATING NEW IDEAS Carolyn Saxton recently moved When it comes to starting, growing to lead the Legacy Foundation. or protecting a business, owners and executives turn to Hoeppner Wagner ity, we’re a vehicle to help others,” Spartz says. & Evans. We represent some of the She started her career at 21 in the region’s largest manufacturers and banking business. She also worked service employers, mid-size family with her dad, who also was an entre- run enterprises, and small start-up preneur in the plastics industry. “We companies, advising on a wide were running an international busi- variety of legal and business issues: ness out of the living room,” Spartz says. ■ Entity Formation Among her biggest accomplish- ■ Employment and Labor Counseling ments may be her son Emerson Spartz, who is one of the world’s ■ Financing and Restructuring Transactions leading experts on Internet viral- ■ Real Estate Development and Zoning ity and has been featured in major ■ Federal and State Taxation media including the Wall Street Journal, “CBS Evening News,” CNN ■ Litigation and more. Emerson Spartz owns ■ Mergers, Acquisitions, Joint Ventures and Sales Spartz Inc., and he runs one of the ■ Business Succession and Estate Planning fastest-growing digital media pub- lishers with 160 million page views ■ Bankruptcy and Collection Matters per month. At the age of 12, Spartz ■ Dispute Resolution, including founded MuggleNet, the top Harry Mediation and Arbitration Valparaiso (219) 464-4961 Potter website, which attracted 50 million page views per month. He Merrillville (219) 769-6552 later became a best-selling author. www.hwelaw.com “He’s gone on to all these other things and he works out of tech Hoeppner Wagner & Evans – We Care About Your Business space in Chicago,” Spartz says mod- estly. She says the whole reason she

22 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 Count Education Initiative, which paign that generated $6 million in improves early childhood education resources to support the arts in St. through teacher training and support. Joseph County. Recently, the Com- Meissner also has championed munity Foundation has partnered the foundation’s African-American with law enforcement, leaders in Community Fund, a program that the African-American community, has received national attention for and social services to support the its emphasis on African-American- implementation of the South Bend initiated philanthropy, and the Group Violence Intervention, work- ArtsEverywhere Initiative, a cam- ing with David Kennedy’s National

works with the Unity Foundation is to strengthen the region’s commu- nities. Spartz also loves the LaPorte County lifestyle. When Spartz needs to kick back she sails. “I’ve raced sailboats all over Lake Michigan,” she says. She also is involved in the Society of Innovators in Indiana. “There are some amazing things going on in Northwest Indi- ana,” Spartz says. “We’re on the cusp of a renaissance.” Rose Meissner has also been a longtime foundation leader. Meissner joined the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County when it was estab- lished in 1992. Under her leadership, the foundation has grown to be one of the top 100 community foun- dations in the United States, with combined assets of more than $140 million. Like Maggi Spartz, she also attended the Kelley School of Busi- ness at IU. As president of the founda- tion, Meissner has created a number of proactive initiatives that address challenges faced by the St. Joseph County community. They include the establishment of the $175,000 Leigh- ton Award for Nonprofit Excellence, which recognizes local charities that demonstrate superior leadership and programming, and the Early Years

SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 23 Network for Safe Communities. Saxton was responsible for many olis and coordinating meetings about Carolyn Saxton recently moved positive programs at the Lubeznik our new neighborhood program,” to the Legacy Foundation from the Foundation, but she says she wanted Saxton says. Lubeznik Center for the Arts. Legacy to go back to her roots in the com- Over the next several months, groups will be involved in meet- ings and submitting their letters of “We’re not just a charity, we’re a vehicle to interest about the program. Right now, the Legacy Foundation invites help others.” potential partners and community- based organizations from any of —Maggi Spartz, Unity Foundation of LaPorte County the 16 towns and cities within Lake County to participate in the Neigh- Foundation is a community founda- munity. borhood Spotlight training series. tion and the leading philanthropic The group at the Legacy Founda- The upcoming informational session partner serving Lake County. The tion is interested in looking at ways it will educate community members on foundation has been around since can make a strong community impact Neighborhood Spotlight competitive 1992. Legacy Foundation helps to strengthen Lake County. “We have grant-making. The required training donors plan how to invest and a couple of exciting programs on sessions that follow will coach your manage their charitable assets; pro- the agenda such as a neighborhood group on preparing the letter of inter- vides grants; offers scholarships to spotlight—we’re doing a lot more est application due by September 1. Lake County students; collaborates promotion. Stay tuned,” Saxton says. Decisions will be made by the with local leaders; and serves as a She says generating new ideas in Legacy Foundation. More about the mentor and resource center to pro- a new job is a very exciting process. neighborhood program can be found vide for the people they serve. “We’re bringing folks from Indianap- at legacyfdn.org.

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24 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 INSURANCE Safe Haven Properly insuring your business is a matter of thinking the unthinkable.

PROTECTION Auto insurance is a must for businesses that provide vehicles for employees. by Heidi Prescott Wieneke treating insurance as a purely price- pro forma of expected costs for the one of us would buy insur- driven commodity. An insurance services the business is going to pro- ance if we didn’t have to. policy is a very complex contract vide or the items it is going to sell, N Insurance agents acknowl- and it is of paramount importance says Mark Bates, president of Pin- edge this and consumers admit it. to understand how a policy will nacle Insurance Group of Indiana, And when it’s time to consider cover- respond in the event of a claim,” says which has offices in Crown Point and age, we are bombarded and barraged Andy Taylor, commercial lines agent Hobart. with advertisements that feature at General Insurance Services in Val- “When a small business owner is catchy slogans, memorable mascots paraiso. organized and knows what they’re or singsong jingles and promises of It is important, even vital, for a going to do going forward, then we service and savings. small business owner to work with can get a better outcome on insur- When someone opens a new an agent who takes the time to ance. So many small businesses fail small business, insurance companies understand the business so the agent, because they didn’t get out of the advise the entrepreneur, who might who should have experience specifi- gate on the right step,” Bates says. be purchasing commercial coverage cally with commercial insurance, can Looking at and poring over a busi- for the first time, to take enough time tailor the policy accordingly. ness plan helps the insurance agent to sit down with an agent who can The best way for a new owner to create an alignment of services that guide the owner in the right direc- explain his or her business model to match up with key business goals tion. an insurance agent is to show the and initiatives to help ensure the “The most common mistake is agent a written business plan and entrepreneur’s success, says Colin

SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 25 MacNab, executive vice president happens. And catastrophes happen. include anything from a desk or and principal at MJ Insurance in Here’s a look at the four basic computer in an office to a deli slicer Indianapolis, which services clients types of insurance all small business in a restaurant, that could be stolen in Northwest Indiana. owners should have. or damaged, says Larry Meyers, “Insurance is a very personal pur- Property insurance: Business president of Schererville-based HIA chase,” MacNab says. “The value of owners have property to insure, Insurance Co. having a good broker or agent is whether their office or store is located Liability insurance: Accidents having someone to talk with about in a building they own or rent. Most happen. For this reason, it is neces- the known-knowns, the known- small business owners are moving sary for every small business owner, unknowns and the unknown- out of their house or garage and into who has people visit the office or unknowns. With insurance, you are a neighborhood shopping center, store or provides someone with buying a piece of paper that outlines and they need to insure the business a service, to have general liability an agreement between you and the personal property they have inside insurance. Contractors are exposed insurance company and what you the space. to risks on the job. Liability insurance are getting for your money. And it Many leases have a provision that will cover the business and small can be a world of gray.” specifies insurance requirementsbusiness owner if their products or Just as you would not drive your for a tenant, so it is important for services cause someone damage or car without insurance, small busi- an insurance agent to have a copy harm, and it will safeguard contrac- ness owners should not open their of the lease in hand so he or she tors in the case of an accident. doors without purchasing at least can review it and make sure cover- Workers compensation: This four basic types of insurance: prop- age adequately meets the terms of type of insurance provides cover- erty, liability, workers compensa- the lease. Sometimes first-time small age for someone who is injured on tion and auto insurance. In each business owners sign a lease without the job. The cost will vary depend- of these instances, it is not worth knowing exactly what it is they are ing on the degree or severity of the taking the risk should someone get signing. job, however. It may cost more to hurt or an accident or catastrophe Business personal property can insure someone working in the field

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26 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 for a steel erection company and less to cover clerical office employees, Meyers says. But states require work- ers compensation that would pro- vide lost wages and medical benefits to the person who is injured. Auto insurance: Some business owners might have a sales staff and provide vehicles for them to drive. Should the employee get into an accident, auto insurance is critical for covering damages sustained to the vehicle. Vehicles can be covered for damage and collision. “The most common mistake small business people make, whether they are starting a new business or are insuring an existing business, is that they never think a loss is going to happen to them,” Meyers says. “They lowball the amount of insur- ance they buy and that comes back to bite them. What we try to do is say, ‘Look, don’t reduce the amount of insurance you have, take a higher deductible. You still need the right type of protection for catastrophe.” After the four basic types of insur- ance, there are several additional options available to small business owners. These options include: crime SHAWN SPENCE SHAWNSPENCE.COM insurance, which is important for businesses that keep certain monies in-house overnight; employee dis- honesty coverage, to cover a busi- ness if an employee is caught stealing from it; and cyber liability insurance. Hackers can break into a small INSURANCE TEAM Managing partners Larry Meyers and business website the same way they Will Glaros show off their new logo at offices in Schererville. have been able to compromise the data of millions of consumers at TJ Business interruption insurance is clients. “Someone who operates Maxx and Target Corp. another type of coverage a small- a beauty salon has an exposure if “Cyber and data breach cover- business person can choose that someone gets burned by hair color age is an optional coverage, but it is would cover the loss of income or an infection from a manicure,” becoming more and more prevalent,” should the business experience a Meyers says. It’s very similar to a says Bates. “Small business owners catastrophe. doctor who carries medical malprac- need to know what safeguards they “If you’re a restaurant and your tice insurance, he says, because it have on their automated systems to building catches fire, you might have protects professionals from claims of prevent hacking as much as they to close for a while. This means damage by their clients. need to consider insurance to cover you’re losing your lifeblood because Insurance policies are usually an any losses from hackers. When cus- there’s no cash flow,” MacNab says. annual contract, so insurance experts tomer information is compromised, a “Business interruption insurance recommend that a small business business has to notify its customers. covers your lost income and extraor- owner spend time reviewing the Coupled with the expense of provid- dinary expenses until you reopen.” plan individually, and then with an ing a credit watch for customers over Professional liability insurance agent a couple of months before a period of time, those costs could is necessary for the small-business policy renewal, says MacNab of MJ be detrimental to a small business.” person who is providing advice to Insurance.

SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 27 “The changes you make might be trophe occurs, and a small business policy or by interpreting the policy very subtle, but I’d say half the time owner does not understand the language differently,” MacNab says. the owner has their policy in the language of the policy or whether “People will ask, ‘Is this covered?’ right alignment and has the right fit damage or loss is covered, it’s time to And I tell them it always depends. It for what is happening in the busi- schedule a meeting or call the insur- depends on the variables in the situa- ness, and half the time they do make ance agent. tion. You want to make sure you turn changes,” MacNab says. “Reviewing “Even if the insurance company over every stone with your insurance your policy on an annual basis is a says something is not covered under agent should an incident or accident very good habit to get into.” your policy, you might be able to happen to make sure you can get And any time an accident or catas- find coverage in another part of the something out of the coverage for your loss.” Many times, new small business owners simply underestimate the extent of their true insurance needs and only buy the bare minimum, says Jennifer Burton, client executive with the business and private client group at Gibson Insurance Group in South Bend. Burton recommends against look- CROWN POINT HOBART ing solely at the bottom line. “Paying 216 E. Joliet St. 618 E. Third St. a low price won’t help you if it Crown Point, IN 46307 Hobart, IN 46342 doesn’t provide beneficial coverage that the business owner is exposed Tel: 219.663.2483 or Tel: 219.942.1148 or to,” Burton says. “Be aware of who 800.783.2483 800.783.1148 you’re working with and choose an advisor that can talk to you and pro- Since 1942 vide advice. Getting a quote off the Internet is not the best idea in this situation.” Small business owners also should not be afraid of disclosing infor- www.pinnacleinsgrp.com mation about their business to the broker or agent. “The insurance agent can’t build an appropriate risk Executive Retreat? management program unless they Awaken to a gourmet know what your true risks and expo- breakfast, meet for a while, sures are,” she says. enjoy lunch, continue your Everyone has their own tolerance successful for risk from a financial standpoint, retreat, relax in your Jacuzzi, says Meyers of HIA. And that toler- dress for a 5-course dinner and ance must be weighed against the an evening with friends possibility that an incident or acci- followed by dessert and a good dent could otherwise put you out of night’s rest. Perhaps, make it a Mystery Dinner for fun. business without the right insurance Own The Inn for your next business in place. “For a small business with $30,000 meeting and guarantee success! in equipment and storage racks, Gift Certificates: Order Inn at Aberdeen Gift Certificates to could they pay out of pocket to show your family, friends and business associates that you REALLY care. retool and regroup if they had a The Inn at Aberdeen disaster? Or why would you want to Bed & Breakfast and Conference Center dig into your own pocket if someone 3158 South State Road 2 • Valparaiso, IN 46385-7765 tripped and fell in your business and Toll Free 866-761-3753 • 219/465-3753 • www.innataberdeen.com racked up a $100,000 medical bill? As seen in Midwest Living, Chicago Magazine and Chicago ABC TV’s 190-North. Would you have the where-with-all Voted Best B&B by readers of SHORE Magazine & TIMES newspaper. to pay out of pocket?” Meyers says. Voted Best Bed & Breakfast for Business Travelers by readers of Northwest Indiana Business Quarterly. “It’s not worth taking the risk.”

28 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014

EDUCATION The Brains for Business Campuses taking the lead in encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship.

by Shari Held interest in entrepreneurship. He encourages his undergradu- ducation and entrepreneur- The Center for Economic Devel- ate students to write business plans ship. It’s a winning combi- opment and Research (CEDaR), in based on what the market needs and E nation that’s only going to PNC’s College of Business, partners wants as well as their particular tal- become more prominent in years to with the Northern Indiana Small Busi- ents. come. Institutions of higher educa- ness Development Center to organize Businesses that were successfully tion are teaching students the skills continuing education workshops to implemented by his undergraduates they need to start their own small promote entrepreneurship. “We are include a Polish deli, a pet-groom- businesses so they earn a livelihood more into the business of helping the ing salon, a windshield repair busi- or maybe even become millionaires community,” Roberts says. “We’re not ness and an Aurelio’s Pizza franchise. (think Mark Zuckerberg). And more a Research 1 institution.” Dunphy’s colleague Ranjan Kini, important, their innovations may Last fall, the debut workshop Ph.D., a professor of management make the world a better place. attracted a full-capacity crowd of information systems at IUN, created Universities are going way beyond community folks and students. iGarage, a tool that helps students the classroom experience. They’re Moving forward, CEDaR plans to create their own apps. One student paving the way for entrepreneurship offer them each spring and fall. created an app that tells users what’s with experiential learning, innova- “We’re excited about that partnership on tap at various microbreweries in tive programs, financial incentives because it’s going to increase oppor- the Region. “Students who are com- and crucial support. tunities for our students as well,” puter savvy can do some unique Whether they help community Roberts says. things,” Dunphy says. “It’s a good members create low-tech businesses CEDaR’s mission is to foster eco- time for entrepreneurs—especially if or engineer opportunities for faculty nomic development of the region. you have those skills.” researchers to partner with students Currently the center is working with and launch high-tech, bioscience- economic development offices in IVY TECH COMMUNITY related startups, it’s all important to Porter and LaPorte counties to see COLLEGE NORTHWEST the economic development of North- how they can effectively partner. The key resource the Gerald I. west Indiana. Lamkin Innovation & Entrepreneur- INDIANA UNIVERSITY ship Center at Ivy Tech Community PURDUE UNIVERSITY NORTHWEST College Northwest offers fledgling NORTH CENTRAL Steve Dunphy, Ph.D., associate pro- entrepreneurs is the Society of Inno- “We’re here as a resource for entre- fessor of management for Indiana vators of Northwest Indiana, which is preneurs,” says Cynthia Roberts, University Northwest, is dedicated celebrating its 10th year this year. The Ph.D., dean of Purdue University to helping the downtrodden areas of society, which consists of more than North Central College of Business, Indiana get “up-to-speed with Ham- 300 individual business profession- “whether they take classes or use our ilton County.” While he believes in als and more than 600-plus associate student talent to help them get going. the concept of business incubators, members, provides the expertise for And if we can’t help them we have for example, he says it doesn’t seem all the center’s programs. the information to connect them with to serve the needs of his students. Society members speak to the stu- someone who can.” “They don’t relate to what business dents at the center’s I&E (Innovation Business students learn the fun- incubators are doing,” he says. “They & Entrepreneurship) Chats. CEOs damentals of what it takes to run just want a small business that they and business leaders come in “with a business, and Roberts says the can get into quickly and make a little their sleeves rolled up” and tell stu- school is rolling out some entrepre- money.” dents the things they won’t learn neurship courses this fall as part of Dunphy, who’s been teaching from textbooks as well as answer its management concentration. “We entrepreneurship for nearly 25 years, all their questions. “Those questions are incorporating it into our regu- sees a strong need in Gary for entre- will either have a student entrepre- lar curriculum,” she says, adding preneurs to start new businesses, neur leaping forth or retreating to go that this is in response to increased citing the many empty storefronts. back into the business world,” says

30 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 EDUCATION

and the society awards entrepre- neurs and business professionals and recently Griffin was inducted into the The Brains for Business society for all his innovative services. Butchee says he’s one of the young- Campuses taking the lead in encouraging est inductees and a role model for others. “You look around and you innovation and entrepreneurship. can find these stories everywhere,” she says. And if she has anything to say about it, you’ll be seeing even more. Ivy Tech’s business curriculum requires students to take business development courses and create a business plan, but Butchee saw the need for a business development course for non-business majors and created one. “We have a very intense culinary, HVAC and nursing focus at Ivy Tech,” she says. “Those are the kinds of skills that, once learned, you could start your own business tomor- row.” Butchee is also passionate about creating a more robust business envi- ronment for the area. “Creativity and innovation will be the foundation for economic growth and development for the region,” she says. “To the out- side world, we’re known as an area that grows corn. They have no idea about the brilliance that comes out of Northwest Indiana. We have made it our mission to discover, encour- age, celebrate and honor our most innovative people across our seven counties.”

PURDUE CALUMET Founded in 2009, Purdue Calumet’s Center for Innovation through Visu- alization and Simulation (CIVS) is a

SHAWN SPENCE SHAWNSPENCE.COM research center that fosters the devel- opment of applications across many disciplines. Currently it works with more than 65 faculty and staff and more than 80 external organizations. While visualization and simulation applications are key to her mission, Chenn Zhou, Ph.D., the center’s OPPORTUNITIES Chenn Zhou, Ph.D, is director of Purdue Calumet’s Center for Innovation through Visualization and Simulation. director, has made it her goal to pro- mote entrepreneurship for students O’Merrial Butchee, director of the company that offers content geared and faculty campus-wide. center. to entrepreneurs. In 2012 he co- “When students graduate they One student who didn’t give up founded SMDG LLC, a social media have all kinds of opportunities,” on his ideas is Brandon Griffin. Grif- development company for non-prof- Zhou says. “I just believe there is fin founded FyeBye, a multimedia its. Each year Ivy Tech Northwest more opportunity to commercial-

SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 31 ize their technology and innovative potential businesses to take them to the university. “Once the copyright is ideas. That’s why we want to pro- the next level. Plans are to have him guaranteed, the entrepreneurs can mote this culture, so our students can talk with students next time. commercialize those copyrights,” become successful entrepreneurs in CIVS encourages faculty, research Zhou says. the future.” staff and students to apply for grants To date CIVS has copyrighted the This spring CIVS invited consultant from the National Science Founda- first virtual blast furnace, which will Kelly Schwedland, Elevate Ventures’ tion and other grant-issuing institu- be used as virtual training for the entrepreneur-in-residence for the tions to train them how to start their steel industry worldwide and an Irish Northern Indiana regions, to speak own companies. The center also dance application. That’s diversity with faculty. Elevate Ventures works actively copyrights software devel- for you! And this is just the begin- with emerging and existing high- oped by faculty and students through ning. Many other copyright applica- tions are in the works.

THE UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME Notre Dame is also seeing increased PURDUE interest in entrepreneurship classes. And many students go on to start UNIVERSITY their own companies after they’ve earned their MBAs. “Most of them CALUMET will go to work for an existing busi- ness for a few years until they pay off their loans, and then start a busi- Where will your journey take you? ness,” says Jeffrey Bernel, director, Gigot Center for Entrepreneurship at PURDUE DEGREE • VIBRANT CAMPUS • INNOVATION the University of Notre Dame. “That’s REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE • ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE the progression we’re seeing.” Although Notre Dame is usually thought of as “the premier arts-and- More than 50,000 graduates have taken the first step to successful careers and graduate school by earning their Purdue degree at letters university,” Bernel says the Purdue Calumet. We are proud to advance economic growth university’s doing a lot of research in Northwest Indiana through our partnerships with business, in nanotechnology, biotechnology industry, government and the community. and engineering. Four years ago it HAMMOND, IN LEARN MORE AT PURDUECAL.EDU built Innovation Park at Notre Dame which houses more than 30 busi- nesses, mainly started by faculty. And plans are already in the works to build a state-of-the-art wet- and dry-lab facility within the next few years. “All the lab equipment is sup- plied by the university for students to use so they don’t have the huge capital expenditures necessary for a startup,” Bernel says. And the move is on to protect intel- lectual property via Notre Dame’s Tech Transfer department, which assists faculty with obtaining copy- rights and patents. “If that intellectual property becomes commercialized then the university can license it or take an equity position in any com- pany that’s started based on that intellectual property,” Bernel says. To take more intellectual property into the marketplace Notre Dame’s MBAs are partnering with faculty and research students to create

32 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 startup companies. The way it works is that the MBAs create the business plan and run the business side of the startup based on the work done by faculty researchers. NanDio, an oral cancer detection test, recently won the McKloskey Business Plan Com- petition, sponsored by the Gigot Center of Entrepreneurship. NanDio is a partnership between MBA Ben Miller and Sharon Stack, Ph.D., pro- fessor of chemistry and biochemistry, Examples of MBA/faculty startups and more mature companies include: F Cubed LLC, a molecular diagnostic method based on the F3 chip; Vennli, a cloud-based platform for creating and executing growth strategy; Data Realty, a world-class data center that delivers access to advanced comput- ing infrastructure to mid-sized busi- nesses; Torigen Pharmaceuticals, producers of the VetiVax kit which contains all the components a veteri- narian needs to make a personalized cancer vaccine in the office, in one TECH TRANSFER Dan Hasler is president and chief hour. entrepreneurial officer of the Purdue Research Foundation.

changing lives MAKING INDIANA GREAT Ivy Tech Community College is the largest and fastest-growing college in Indiana. We offer the most affordable tuition in the state and credits can easily transfer to four-year institutions.

And, an Ivy Tech degree is respected by employers in the fastest-growing fields. For over five decades, the state’s largest public post-secondary institution and the nation’s largest singly-accredited statewide community college system has educated the workforce that makes our community thrive.

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ivygar_19631_1407_ChangingLives_ad.indd 1 6/30/14 4:40 PM SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 33 “We are seeing a number of inter- technologies into the marketplace. esting technologies at the university One of its functions is to manage that are going commercial,” Bernel four technology parks in Indiana, says. “It’s a very interesting growth including the Purdue Research Park that has occurred.” of Northwest Indiana. Altogether they host about 240 companies and PURDUE UNIVERSITY employ nearly 4,500 employees, at WEST LAFAYETTE above-standard wages for the com- The Purdue Research Foundation was munities. founded nearly 80 years ago to help Another function is to oversee tech support the move of life-changing transfer. The foundation receives

“A GOOD TIME FOR ENTREPRENEURS” Steve Dunphy, Ph.D., is associate professor of management for Indiana University Northwest. more than 400 disclosures of intel- lectual property each year, receives about 120 patents each year and licenses about 120 technologies to the marketplace each year. “About 20 of those technologies will be licensed to startup compa- nies,” says Dan Hasler, president and chief entrepreneurial officer of the Purdue Research Foundation. “The Just reason we’re so focused on startup companies is that they tend to stay in Indiana, tend to hire Hoosiers and, 100 years from now, will be the ask Cooks or the Lillys—the corporate headquarters companies.” Two years ago, five startups based on Purdue technologies were b us iness founded. Last year there were eight. But the foundation has recently implemented several entrepreneur- friendly practices, and this year, lending. Hasler anticipates 20 to 23. One of the first things the foun- dation did was make changes to its intellectual property policies, creat- ing an express license that makes it much easier for faculty, in particular, to license their technology and take it to startup companies. It also cre- ated a support organization called LaPorte Savings Bank offers more than just business The Foundry, which provides legal loans. We lend opportunity to our local communities. services, visa support, help with Visit laportesavingsbank.com/business-banking business plans and assistance locat- or stop by a local branch office for more information. ing funders. “They’ve been overrun with clients,” Hasler says. “At any

34 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 point in time they’re working with kinson’s disease speak louder and process that takes embryonic tissue 50 to 70 clients—faculty, staff and more clearly; SPEAK MODalities LLC and grows it on scaffolding to pro- students.” produces SPEAKall! and SPEAKmore! duce more specialized tissue such as The foundation also opened a applications which help nonverbal a kidney. prototyping facility so entrepreneurs children with autism learn speech; “There’s a movement now toward could create prototypes of their Bearing Analytics produces an ana- entrepreneurism,” Hasler says. “And products—a step crucial to finding lytics sensor for predicting ball bear- a realization that real innovation and funding—and The Anvil, a student ing failure in machinery such as real value-creation in the U.S. have incubator, which typically houses up large energy-generating windmills; always been on the backs of entre- to eight student-run LLCs. Discovery Symic Biomedical is developing a preneurs and startup companies.” Park Partners provides office space for entrepreneurs partnering or doing business with Purdue faculty within walking distance of the campus. To encourage potential investors for Purdue’s life science startups, the foundation created the not-for-profit Foundry Investment Fund. This ever- green fund will match a certain per- centage of the investment on the same terms as the lead investor. “It’s not so much about the money, but what that demonstrates to the inves-

“To the outside world, we’re known as an area that grows corn. They have no idea about the brilliance that comes out of NOMINATE YOUR FAVORITE SMALL Northwest Indiana.” BUSINESS TODAY! —O’Merrial Butchee, Ivy Tech Community College Nomination deadline SEPTEMBER 10 tor is that if they make an investment 23rd ANNUAL in a Purdue company, Purdue will ENTREPRENEURIAL Awards luncheon invest with them. We won’t walk EXCELLENCE AWARDS away,” Hasler says. NOVEMBER 12 Not all the entrepreneurial endeav- ors coming out of Purdue are high- Nomination packets tech—there’s Coffee Coals, a Purdue Sponsorship opportunities student startup that converts waste Awards luncheon tickets coffee grounds into charcoal bri- EDAYLEADERS.COM quettes, for instance. But many of them do. Here are a few faculty (219) 644-3513 or faculty/student success stories. SpeechVive helps patients with Par-

SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 35 SPECIAL FEATURE Health Care Honors Our readers suggest some of the region’s standouts in medical care.

housands of people work in health care across the T region, all helping patients get healthy and stay that way. Who is exceptionally good at doing so? We asked our readers for nomina- tions in our third annual compilation of Northwest Indiana Business Quar- terly Health Care Honors.

ADVANCEMENTS IN HEALTH CARE Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Hammond Federal statistics indicate that one in every 12 people in the U.S. suffer from asthma, which adds up to a $56 billion annual price tag in terms of medical costs, lost productivity or school time, and early death. For NEW ANSWER FOR ASTHMA Pictured with bronchial thermoplasty equipment those with severe asthma, the impact at Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Hammond are Dr. Leonard Buccellato, Dr. Bassel Ericsoussi, nurse-practitioner Jason Tackett and Dr. Tapan Desai. on quality of life is huge. Franciscan St. Margaret Health- percent drop in hospitalizations for in uncompensated care, community Hammond is offering a new proce- those symptoms. Patients reported a education and essential services for dure called bronchial thermoplasty, 66 percent decline in asthma-related those in need. Not-for-profits refer to which has proven to be a life- days lost from work, school and other this as “community benefit”—valuable changer. “A lot of people say they activities, and four-fifths said their services provided not because they have gotten their life back (follow- quality of life improved significantly. bring in revenue, but because they ing the treatment),” says Dr. Leonard “The goal of using bronchial ther- support the organization’s mission. Buccellato, who offers the procedure moplasty is to reduce the need for Community benefit reports from along with fellow pulmonologists steroids, the need for hospitalization, the organization provide some exam- Dr. Bassel Ericsoussi and Dr. Tapan to reduce costs and to improve qual- ples. St. Anthony Health-Michigan Desai, with Franciscan Medical Spe- ity of life,” says Dr. Buccellato. City, for example, reported overall cialists in Munster. community benefit of $62.2 million, Patients receive three outpatient COMPASSIONATE CARE about a third of the organization’s treatments in three-week intervals. Franciscan Alliance total expenses. The percentage was The process sends therapeutic radio- The business of health care is com- almost as high at St. Margaret Health, frequency energy to airway walls plicated and costly, and even with where the community benefit value through a catheter from a broncho- the implementation of the Affordable was $106.0 million. St. Anthony scope. The energy bursts destroy Care Act, not-for-profit health care Health-Crown Point reported com- some of the muscle tissue that oth- organizations provide millions upon munity benefit of $32.7 million, erwise would constrict during an millions of dollars in uncompensated 14.5 percent of the organization’s asthma attack, and that can reduce support for their communities— expenses. And Franciscan Physicians the frequency and severity of attacks. focused on health care and other fac- Hospital reported community benefit Clinical trials found that the treat- tors important to quality of life. of $6.3 million. ment can yield a 32 percent decrease Franciscan Alliance is a prime Gene Diamond, the regional CEO in asthma attacks, an 84 percent example of the compassionate side for the Franciscan Alliance, says such reduction in emergency room visits of the business. Its Northern Indiana things are all part of the mission for respiratory symptoms and a 73 hospitals provide millions of dollars and Franciscan values—along with

36 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 SPECIAL FEATURE

a wide range of other kinds of out- Dr. Kneller says current trends avenues for communication, there’s reach, from the Catherine McAuley in medicine hold real promise to still plenty of time for in-person Clinic for uninsured patients to the improve quality of life—in particu- appointments, he notes. “There’s Health Care Honors St. Monica Home for teen mothers. lar, the ever-increasing emphasis on nothing quite like that one-to-one “The Sisters of St. Francis believe that keeping people healthy and out of with a person.” Our readers suggest some of the region’s standouts in medical care. we should make every patient feel the hospital. “If the evolution toward And according to his nomina- consciously aware of being loved. population health and disease man- tor, that’s where Dr. Ludwig excels. Every patient who comes through agement works the way it’s supposed “One outstanding attribute is his our doors may not be able to be to,” he says, “it’s a good thing.” patience and stable composure. cured by us, but we will do every- After working with him on Porter thing in our power to heal them.” Dr. Thomas Ludwig Regional Hospital’s pediatric unit Patients can since the 1980s, I can say I’ve never OUTSTANDING PHYSICIAN certainly spot known him to lose his patience or Dr. G. Larsen Kneller outstanding raise his voice, even in the middle “There is never physicians, but of the night and in the most dire cir- a reason to not the nurses with cumstances.” be nice to some- whom they work one.” So says one often have addi- OUTSTANDING HEALTH of the people tional insights. It CARE WORKER who nominated was a nurse who Irene Stevens Dr. G. Larsen regularly cares “The most reward- Kneller for Out- for pediatric patients who nominated ing part of work- standing Physi- Dr. Thomas Ludwig as an Outstand- ing in the health cian, reciting Dr ing Physician. care industry is Larsen’s motto. “He truly is a role Dr. Ludwig has worked since the every day there model and inspires every one of us early 1980s with Associated Pediatri- is an opportunity to be a better person.” cians, which has offices in Valparaiso to help people,” Dr. Kneller is medical director with and Portage. “While giving a most says Irene Ste- Beacon Medical Group in LaPorte, pleasant presentation with patients vens, customer and has been serving patients in the and family, he also maintains an service represen- area for more than 25 years. He’s expertise and skill that has not tative for Beacon Medical Group. board-certified by the American wavered with time,” reports his nom- Her nominator says she does that Board of Family Practice, earned his inator. “He is very knowledgeable, quite well. “She always demonstrates medical degree at the Indiana Uni- and willing to patiently share that compassion and concern, and does versity School of Medicine and com- knowledge in understandable terms it so sincerely. She is well known pleted his residency in Texas. His with those who need it: patients and and loved by the patients and her credentials and outcomes are exem- parents, nurses and students.” coworkers.” plary, but it’s his approach to both Watching young patients grow up According to the nomination, she patients and coworkers that earns is a joy that comes with the job of has served as a medical assistant, him particular praise. pediatrician, says Dr. Ludwig, who medical receptionist and biller, a “He almost always receives a per- studied at IU and did his residency certified professional coder and a fect 10 on our patient satisfaction sur- at Riley Hospital for Children. He’s customer service rep. “She always veys,” says a colleague in Dr. Kneller’s there for good times and bad, offer- meets every new patient with a big nomination. Another nominator adds ing education and advice along the smile and informs them of all the that Dr. Kneller seems to always have way, preparing kids and parents for services available. When a patient time for everyone. “He is always will- what lies ahead. “It’s kind of like has a concern or problem, she ing to work patients in that need to being a parent to all of these kids,” works with them and listens to be seen. He knows his patients well he says. them.” and takes the time to listen to their Much has changed over the years, Stevens reflects the praise back on concerns and needs,” the nominator he says, including the role of social her colleagues. “On a daily basis, I writes. The same holds true for the media and other communications am in awe of the brilliant minds people with whom he works. “He technology. The practice has a of our physicians and associates at is always available to troubleshoot patient portal that allows some inter- Beacon Medical Group and so proud when problems occur with either staff action over the Internet, and Face- of the great work that we do. It truly or patients, and provides excellent book also offers opportunities to get is an amazing feeling to be part of support and feedback.” messages out. Despite the electronic this fabulous team!”

SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 37 OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER Marianne Dimos Marianne Dimos is a volunteer’s volunteer. She works five days a week, in charge of all of the 175 or so volunteers who serve Porter Regional Hos- pital. “Marianne is a passionate and dedicated vol- unteer,” her nominator writes. “She coordinates all the volunteers within the hospital. She also coordinates the job shadowing for any student who may have an interest in pursuing a career in health care. I can always count on Marianne to coordinate a volunteer.” Dimos has volunteered with the hospital for nine years, the past seven of which she has served as volunteer coordinator. As much time as she has given, she says, “I get a lot more out of this job than I put into it.” She spent years working in a wide range of paying jobs, from maga- zine writer to teacher. With her late Congratulations to G. Larsen Kneller, M.D. husband, she spent more than two and Irene Stevens for providing outstanding decades operating a Gary restaurant, catering service and liquor store, care to patients and families every day. as well as selling commercial real estate, and her husband also taught at Purdue Calumet and North Central as well as IU Northwest and South Bend. Her connection to Porter came when she went there for treatment of heart-related issues and was pleased BeaconMedicalGroup.org with the care. “I felt comfortable and safe and well-taken-care-of. I made up my mind that I would try to help 7am–9pm, 7 days 365 days a year including ALL holidays Porter any way I could.” The volunteers she coordinates ALWAYS seen by a PHYSICIAN perform a wide variety of tasks, Most major insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, cash, lending a hand in all sorts of sup- check, credit/debit card. portive situations, helping keep costs No appointment. No hospital fees. in line and, perhaps most important Children & adults Illness & Injuries to Dimos, helping provide the atmo- Occupational Medicine & Sports exams. sphere and experience she found so important as a patient. “We are there Serving NW Indiana since 2003 to provide them with the feeling that US Hwy 30 & Burr St—SE corner “Pointe” Porter is like their home.” 219/769-1DOC (1362) As her nominator says, “She is an inspiration!”

38 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 BUSINESS LAW Emerging Young Attorneys Making a difference by serving clients and communities alike.

Carly Brandenburg Christopher Drewry Timothy Emerick Kristina Jacobucci

by Cassie Richardson filling path in life. She is a member “What the center has done as far oday’s young attorneys take of the Beaux Arts Ball committee, as really trying to get new types of their jobs as seriously as they which recently hosted its 15th annual shows from all around the world, is a T take their suits. The area’s fundraiser to benefit South Shore Arts really neat aspect to see here locally. young and rising stars give back to Everykid program, which provides We’re here in the middle of Indiana their communities through philan- art opportunities to more than 28,000 and it’s really starting to become thropic efforts or service on boards. children and youth annually. somewhat of a cultural epicenter for Meet our top 10 picks from young Additionally, Brandenburg volun- the various types of music and art legal professionals who are giving teers for Junior Achievement and and everything else,” Drewry says. back and making a difference in their teaches a five-week course that offers communities. Hammond second-graders lessons in TIMOTHY EMERICK, 36 economics and good citizenship. Partner, Barnes & Thornburg LLP CARLY BRANDENBURG, 32 Attorney Timothy Emerick special- Partner, Eichhorn & Eichhorn LLP CHRISTOPHER DREWRY, 32 izes in business transactional law. Carly Brandenburg entered law Partner, Drewry Simmons He represents corporate clients in school with the notion of entering Vornehm LLP matters of real estate, financing and politics after graduation. While many young professionals complex business contracts. And, he After trying her hand at arguing in today’s uber-social networking has a hand in improving the qual- cases in Moot Court, however, the climate use online platforms such ity of life for the spectrum of people then-law student knew a career in as LinkedIn and Twitter to make living in South Bend. litigation would be more fulfilling. business connections, Christopher Emerick serves on the board of Today, Brandenburg argues and Drewry helps millennials expand directors for Unity Gardens Inc., resolves general, civil and medical their business networks by champi- a network of community gardens malpractice disputes on behalf of cli- oning the arts. aiming to provide greater access ents in the utility, construction and Drewry is a Leadership Council to healthier, locally grown food. hospital industries. member of The Scene—the young He is also an active member of “Until tested, you never really professionals group dedicated to Young Professionals Against Pov- know what kind of person you will advancing the mission of The Center erty, a dedicated group of young be, as far as articulating things well of Performing Arts. When he’s not philanthropists who raise aware- in a public setting,” she says. practicing construction, labor and ness about homelessness as well This sentiment appears to be a employment law from his Carmel as funds that help South Bend’s running theme in Brandenburg’s life office, or coaching his daughter’s Center for the Homeless break the outside the courtroom, as well. Bran- soccer team as part of the Carmel cycle of homelessness and extreme denburg helps local youths explore Dad’s Club, Drewry is busy promot- poverty. Emerick, a certified public artistic and civic endeavors that may ing cultural involvement among his accountant, also provides free lead them to discover their own, ful- peers under age 40. income tax preparation for low

SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 39 income families at the University of is amazing to be a part of something surprise, then, that Jacobucci has Notre Dame/St. Mary’s Tax Assis- bigger.” become a strong advocate—in and tance Program. outside the courtroom—for the chil- “It is easy to become complacent KRISTINA JACOBUCCI, 34 dren of LaPorte County. in our everyday lives and take things Associate, Newby, Lewis, Jacobucci, who specializes in for granted,” he says. “By serving Kaminski & Jones family and adoption law, as well as our communities, we are given the Kristina Jacobucci says she has hospital, medical malpractice and opportunity to take a step back and always had an interest in helping appellate law, often shares her legal appreciate the opportunities made families, and she credits her adop- expertise to help local families grow available to us. The personal satisfac- tive parents for instilling in her the stronger and healthier. tion of service is a great feeling and it importance of volunteerism. It’s no Jacobucci helps local teens under- stand the implications of unlawful lifestyle choices by serving as a judge in LaPorte County’s Youth Service Bureau Teen Court. This program LEGAL SOLUTIONS helps non-violent first-time offend- ers make amends for their behavior We Have Attorneys for That through a combination of commu- nity service, counseling, and other activities. Teen Court—where youths between 10 and 17 serve as jurors and participate in hearing proceed- ings—is an alternative to juvenile detention. Jacobucci also protects children from the physical and emotional scars of child abuse through her work on the Dunebrook Inc. board of direc- tors. And, as chairman of the LaPorte Hospital Foundation’s planned giving committee, Jacobucci organizes estate planning workshops aimed at rais- ing funds that help uninsured, low- income children and adults receive much-needed hospital care.

STEVEN LAMMERS, 33 Associate, Krieg DeVault As a high school senior, litigator Steven Lammers was part of a team that won Indiana’s annual Mock Trial Competition. That victory sparked his passion for the law. Today, Lammers represents busi- nesses, hospitals and banks in complex litigation issues in federal appellate courts covering Northwest Indiana and Illinois. He also serves on the board of Chasing Dreams Inc., a Valparaiso-based resource center that provides social, physi- cal and educational programming in seven counties, for those affected by autism, Down syndrome and devel- Krieg DeVault LLP www.kriegdevault.com opmental disabilities. 8001 Broadway, Suite 400 Merrillville, Indiana 46410 INDIANA ILLINOIS GEORGIA In his volunteer role, Lammers Phone: 219.227.6100 FLORIDA MINNESOTA raises funds and awareness about © Krieg DeVault 2014 developmental disabilities and the

40 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 Steven Lammers Angelica Schultis Jared Tauber Ann Marie Woolwine Chasing Dreams organization, par- ticularly among members of the Indi- ana business community. “I like providing insight. I like seeing what we’re able to achieve in terms of providing opportunities that individuals might not get elsewhere, BCC [but] that they can get at Chasing Dreams at no cost. It’s free for them LLP and their families to experience these BURKE COSTANZA & CARBERRY things,” Lammers says.

MICHAEL L. MEYER, 34 Associate Attorney, Hoeppner Advisors you want. Advocates you need. Wagner & Evans LLP For Michael Meyer, variety creates his zest for life. Primarily, Meyer special- izes in labor and employment law. GOOD He also takes on insurance defense and commercial litigation cases. And BETTER with this mix of legal matters on his hands, describing a typical work day is difficult at best. BCC Every day presents new opportuni- ties to do things differently because he’s always working with a different set of facts, Meyer says. “That’s what I think is fun about the practice of law.” Meyer takes the same approach to as voted by the readers of giving back to his community. He Northwest Indiana Business Quarterly serves on the Porter County Com- Thank you! munity Foundation’s communica- tions committee, where he helps 2010-2014 craft recommendations that facilitate effective communications between the foundation’s board of directors and donors, local non-profits and the community. “I like doing this because the Com- munity Foundation is not just about one organization or one group or one cause. It’s there to help any number of charitable organizations that might have all sorts of different 9191 Broadway | Merrillville, IN 46410 | t. 219.769.1313 | f. 219.769.6806 goals,” Meyer says. “For me, I feel 156 Washington St. | Valparaiso, IN 46383 | t. 219.531.0134 | www.bcclegal.com like being involved with the com-

SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 41 munications committee of the Com- Exam, Angelica Schultis received sur- cializes in personal injury litigation munity Foundation allows me to take prising news that offered a valuable and matters related to Social Secu- the time that I have to donate and lesson. The firm where she expected rity disability and veterans disability. use it to impact as many different to practice law could no longer But she never forgot how it felt to organizations that I can.” afford to hire her. Schultis went from wonder how she would pay her rent. promising, incoming associate attor- “Regardless of your station in life, ANGELICA SCHULTIS, 39 ney to jobless, in a heartbeat. you can still find yourself in a situa- Associate Attorney, Blachly, Tabor, Eight months later, Schultis landed tion where you need help,” she says. Bozik & Hartman LLC a position at Blachly, Tabor, Bozik & It’s this lesson that fuels Schultis’ After passing the Indiana State Bar Hartman LLC, where today she spe- passion for helping the homeless. She is the incoming secretary and a member of the board of directors for Quality Legal Services for Over 100 Years Housing Opportunities—a state-cer- tified, non-profit agency that helps Northwest Indiana families and indi- viduals find access to safe, decent and affordable housing. She also serves on the board’s governance and legal issues committees.

JARED TAUBER, 32 Partner, Tauber Law Offices Jared Tauber says that growing up in Highland, with the benefits of a good education, a supportive father and access to youth sports activities, had a lot to do with his fast-track to success. 916 Lincolnway  La Porte, IN 46350  (219) 362-1577  Fax (219) 362-2106 At 32, Tauber is the town prosecu- Michigan City Tel.: (219) 879-6300 tor for the Village of Highland. He also serves as legal counsel for High- land’s Plan Commission and Board www.nlkj.com of Zoning Appeals. So, when a friend invited him to help coach youth athletes of High- BLACHLY, TABOR, BOZIK & HARTMAN, LLC land Soccer Club, Tauber saw the opportunity as a fun way to give Integrity. Service. Stability… Since 1961. back. Unfortunately, the soccer team’s coach, Jeff DeVries, was diag- nosed with melanoma. And what Tauber thought would have been Let Us Help. a lighthearted pastime grew into a much larger cause. DeVries died just months after Personal Injury Wills, Probate & Estate Planning learning he had the disease. Tauber Worker’s Compensation Veterans’ Disability stepped in to help with DeVries’ coaching duties, but he wanted to Social Security Municipal Counsel Disability do more. In 2013, Tauber teamed up Family Law with local businessman Milan Kesic Civil Litigation Real Estate, to host a major benefit that raised Product Liability Business and money for the DeVries family and the Employment Law Miles for Melanoma charity for mela- noma research. Meanwhile, Tauber is www.LawyersontheSquare.com training to take a seat on the Ameri- 56 S. Washington Street 370 W. 80th Place 4656 W. Jefferson can Red Cross of Northwest Indiana Valparaiso IN 46383 Merrillville, IN 46410 Fort Wayne, IN 46804 board of directors. 219.464.1041 219.738.2824 260.432.9100 continued on page 47

42 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 Choose Methodist.

Methodist Hospitals gives at-risk babies a fighting chance with our Neonatal Intensive Care Units

Since Methodist Hospitals opened our Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) in 1988, our unmatched NICU staff, led by Neonatology Physicians 24 hours-a-day, has treated more than 9,000 premature babies. Many of these newborns, often transferred from other area hospitals, have complex problems that may include respiratory distress, or stress during labor requiring immediate care and long-term ventilator management. Our commitment to at-risk babies extends beyond their discharge. Methodist Hospitals also offers a monthly, no-cost Neonatal Developmental Clinic providing valuable follow-up and progress checks for at-risk former NICU patients.

Methodist Hospitals offers a five-week class to help pregnant moms and their partners learn about labor, delivery and more. To register or learn more, call 1-888-909-DOCS (3627) or visit MethodistHospitals.org.

WOMEN & CHILDREN SERVICES Leading the Way to Better Health MARKETING Marketing Strategies Reaching consumers through social media, public relations and word of mouth.

by Jane Bokun uccessfully marketing your company is one of the most S important business goals your company can achieve. Some companies send out more than 8,000 emails per day, while others prefer to send information through the mail. Still others use social media. Whatever the strategy, marketing your company is priority one in today’s highly competitive market. PHOTO BY PETE DOHERTY Kathleen Szot, communications manager for NIPSCO (Northern Indi- ana Public Service Co.), is a believer in targeted marketing to her custom- ers. “We do programs that spotlight energy efficiency,” Szot says. GENERATING HEADLINES Bill Wellman’s creativity brings public attention to everything Through such initiatives as bro- from the hotel development of his employer, Whiteco Industries Inc., to the importance of honoring his fellow veterans. On behalf of Whiteco, he once got the local papers to chures on saving energy, the com- run a photo of a visiting musician holding a large fish. pany is able to build brand awareness as well as help people. But, that’s energy-efficient thermostat. “We can be a little person visiting one of his not all NIPSCO does. The company, show how to apply for a rebate for hotels. With the juxtaposition in size, headquartered in Merrillville, is one a programmable thermostat,” Szot the photo was a hit and made it into of the seven energy distribution com- says. “We encourage people to do the local newspapers the next day. panies of NiSource Inc. According to their research.” Wellman says he’s always think- its website, NIPSCO has more than Bill Wellman, in marketing for ing of unusual situations that might 821,000 natural gas customers and Whiteco Industries Inc., has his be newsworthy. In fact, he once was 468,000 electric customers. It is the own unique take on marketing the invited by singer Tom Jones to a pri- largest natural gas distribution com- hotel development industry. Whiteco vate party in one of the hotels Well- pany and the second-largest electric offers construction, family entertain- man was representing. distribution company in the state. ment, homebuilding and real estate “I got to know Tom Jones and it NiSource distribution companies services. The company also oper- was his first night there,” Wellman serve 3.8 million natural gas and ates hotels and restaurants. It was says. “There were 20 ladies and the electric customers primarily in seven founded in 1935 and is headquar- band having champagne and hors de states. tered in Merrillville. oeuvres.” Jones jokingly told Well- “There are lots of programs,” When Wellman started out, when man that it was the last time he was Szot says. “In one, we make people there was no social media, marketing inviting him to a private party. aware of energy usage, but we also managers had to rely on their wits. “You remind me of a dog I once run news ads, run ads online and do “Social media wasn’t there so I used had who was always pointing,’” direct sales. We mix it up and make public relations to get stories in the Wellman said he told Jones. “‘In fact, sure we’re getting out a variety of newspaper,” Wellman says. “I knew I can tell you exactly which one of messages.” it had to be good enough so that these girls you’re going to ask to Not to be outdone for NIPSCO is people would be interested in it.” dinner.’” Wellman says he already the use of social media. The com- For example, Wellman says, he knew who Jones was going to ask pany does email blasts on important once took a photo of a large fish held because it was his employee. subjects such as how to run your by a band member who happened to Caesar’s Entertainment Corp. mar-

44 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 MARKETING

keting and communications special- Franciscan hospice team embraces ist Lissette Verdi uses a variety of the entire person, and strives to high-tech methods to market the enhance a patient’s physical comfort Marketing Strategies gaming industry. Her company had and peace of mind. its beginning in Reno, Nevada, more “We have an active regional foun- Reaching consumers through social media, than 75 years ago, and Caesars now dation that contacts sponsors for our MEDIA RELATIONS Community Hospital in Munster handled a lot of attention when has resorts and casinos on three con- marketing,” Stuteville says. “It’s been treating the nation’s first MERS patient. public relations and word of mouth. tinents. The company’s resorts oper- very robust. We’ve known for years ate primarily under the Harrah’s, there is a great need in central Indi- ana, the Centers for Disease Control Caesars and Horseshoe brand names. ana for a hospice facility. Through and Prevention and the Indiana State Caesars also owns the London Clubs generous donations we’ve made it Department of Health. The hospital International family of casinos. possible.” Stuteville says employees also staged a phone/web conference “We use marketing in programs also have stepped up to the plate allowing people to dial in and listen such as our Total Rewards cards,” donating their time. to the latest MERS updates. Verdi says. “They set us apart from This year, the media came to Mun- “Communication is the key,” Forszt our competitors because you can ster Community Hospital with a story says. “People are always looking for redeem points earned in the casi- the hospital handled with education more information.” nos for shopping items.” The Total and wisdom. A man who had con- In its regular marketing, Munster Rewards program gives patrons tracted the first case of Middle East Community uses digital market- computerized cards they can redeem Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) in the ing, newspaper advertisements and each time they play in the casinos. United States came to Munster Com- online ads. “We’re trying to reach She says the company is integrat- munity after traveling abroad. MERS different types of audiences,” Forszt ing its Total Rewards program with a causes coughing, fever and some- says. new application that can be found on times fatal pneumonia. 3 Floyd’s Brewery and Pub has the website. “The great thing about “We had a lot of press coverage been a marketing success story since the new app is that it tracks where for the (MERS) virus story and so its beginnings in Munster in 1996. you are,” Verdi says. For example, we gathered as much information as One of the best things about this you can be standing in front of Cae- possible,” says Marie Forszt, director local brewery and restaurant is its sar’s in Las Vegas and the app will of marketing for Munster Community laid-back attitude. point out nearby places to dine or Hospital. “The first thing we did was Back when the company started, shop. alleviate the fears of the public. We it was armed with only a few hun- Joe Stuteville is the spokesperson wanted to get the message out there dred dollars, a five-barrel Franken- for Hospice House through Francis- and keep the message out there.” stein wok-burner-fired brew kettle, can St. Francis Health at Franciscan The hospital did extra press repurposed open Swiss cheese fer- Alliance Inc. He says he uses the releases every day because open menters (Hammond Squares) and media to market the Hospice House communication every day was cru- an old Canfield’s Cola tank. 3 Floyds project. According to its website, cial. Forszt says the hospital also Brewing Co. was founded in Ham- Franciscan Alliance steps up to treat held a national press conference mond in 1996 by brothers Nick and a person’s body, mind and spirit. The which included the governor of Indi- Simon Floyd and their father Mike. Since 2000, the brewery has thrived in Munster, so much so that it added a pub and restaurant in 2005 at its flagship brewery, Now, the company’s beer can be found throughout the country just on the strength of its brand. In today’s society where costly brand- ing is everything, how do they do it? “Everything is word of mouth,” says brew pub manager Joe Sker- gich. That word of mouth is facili- tated through social media, including Facebook and Twitter. Skergich says the group travels to different beer events and festi- TOTAL REWARDS Caesar’s Entertainment Corp., which operates Harrah’s casinos, vals and that marketing strategy has integrates its rewards program with an application that keeps patrons well-connected. worked. “People can talk to our sales

SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 45 2014

WORD OF MOUTH 3 Floyd’s Brewery and Pub has such a strong and popular brand that it’s not even looking for new distributors right now.

managers and request to get our beer,” he says. Indeed, with beer names like Zombie Dust, Gumballhead, Calu- met Queen and Robert the Bruce, it is clear that this beer is unusual from the start. It has been named the number one beer by several beer- related magazines and is working hard to meet the needs of its current markets. According to its website, 3Floyds.com, 3 Floyds is so popular that the brand is not even looking for new distribu- tors at this time. But, good news for beer lovers is that carryout beer is available seven days a week (includ- ing Sundays) from the 3 Floyds Mun- ster location. Skergich says the reason why the beer is so popular is obvious. “It’s our unique and quality products,” he says. According to the website, consis- tency may be another reason for the brew’s popularity. “Even with the Thanks to all of our wide variety of styles we brew, our loyal customers, vendors and ales and lagers will always taste like 3 Floyds. Using sound techniques, especially, 1st Source Bank for helping the finest ingredients and innovation, Mike Suth of Hoosier Spring Company, Inc., become we strive to make the best and most “Indiana Small Business Person of the Year.” memorable beers—always setting themselves apart,” according to the 3 Floyd’s website. Greg Suth, company president The 3 Floyds Brew Pub also boasts an eclectic and unusual foodie menu with a variety of pizza entrees, sand- wiches and more. Tours are offered on Saturdays, with signups on a first- come, first-serve basis. As if to underscore the brewery’s casual attitude, the website says, “You can sign up with our door guy on the day of the tour.”

46 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 LAWYERS continued from page 42 through dementia or other ailments.” an attorney with an impressive list of JENNIFER VANDERVEEN, 39 When she’s not solving problems clients who depend on her expertise Of Counsel, Tuesley Hall and collecting hugs from satisfied in transactional business law, wills, Konopa LLP clients, VanderVeen serves on the trusts, and estate planning, Woolwine Certified elder law attorney Jennifer National Academy of Elder Care finds that she has less time for hands- VanderVeen “fell” into her practice Attorneys board of directors. In addi- on community service. Yet her desire specialty. tion to her board responsibilities, to get involved remains strong. Years ago, while between jobs and VanderVeen spends numerous hours Woolwine balances work with her pregnant with her 11 year-old son planning conferences for the organi- passion for service by leading her Benjamin, VanderVeen took a tem- zation. She also volunteers with the firm’s charge to reduce hunger. In porary position with an elder law Michiana Gerontology Institute. 2011, she enrolled her firm in Indi- firm. She started out working as a tax ana’s March Against Hunger food and an estate planning attorney and ANN MARIE WOOLWINE, 34 drive and organized the employee fell in love with her work. Associate Attorney, Burke Costanza collection effort. Since then, the “It’s the one area of the law where Carberry LLP annual food drive has become an you truly feel that everything you Early in her career, Ann Marie Wool- anticipated event. Every year Wool- do is to help someone,” she says. wine rolled up her sleeves and volun- wine motivates employees to give, VanderVeen’s temporary position teered in her community whenever and in 2013 Burke Costanza & Car- turned into a permanent job, which she had the chance. berry received an Attorney General’s she kept until the firm broke up. “So “I could do things like a Habitat Cup award for donating the most many of our seniors don’t have a for Humanity build or volunteer in non-perishable food items. voice and don’t always understand a soup kitchen…or visit a nursing In addition to her food drive efforts, the intricacies of what is going on home with my dog, which I did regu- Woolwine serves on the boards of around them, particularly those who larly in my 20s,” she says. directors for the Catholic Foundation may not have the capability to make These days, with the responsibili- of Northwest Indiana and the Legacy decisions for themselves whether ties of being a wife, a mother and Foundation.

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SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 47 SPECIAL FEATURE Leaders as Heroes South Shore Leadership Awards recognize “our region’s greatest asset.”

by Jerry Davich ing work tirelessly to improve their tions typically do not manage sym- ichael Griffin knew he communities and make Northwest phonies. Under his guidance, ticket would be awarded the Indiana a better place to live,” he sales experienced a crescendo of 22 M inaugural Crest Award by says. “The center is honored to serve percent despite obvious economic the South Shore Leadership Center at as a catalyst for leadership recogni- challenges. its third annual “Leaders as Heroes” tion in the region.” Cain says it was fun to meet the event at Avalon Manor in Hobart. But Support for the event came from other honorees who represent a the advance warning didn’t brace the Skillman Corp., NIPSCO, Micro- broad spectrum of residents in regard him for the waves of humility that bac, First Merchant’s Bank, the Better to age, ethnicity and vocation. “To washed over him just seconds before Business Bureau and Northwest Indi- me, my award is recognition that the receiving it in front of hundreds of ana Business Quarterly, among other arts matter,” says Cain before again guests. sponsors, donors and volunteers. painting his accomplishment with a The pinnacle honor of the evening The center uses 10 principles— comedic brushstroke. “In the immor- was created to exemplify five tenets such as engaging, innovative and eth- tal words of Woody Allen, showing of professional excellence through ical—to choose the finalists and final up is 80 percent of life.” being a teacher, mentor, model, his- five honorees. Those finalists were: torian and, of course, a leader. Rachel Delaney, Demond Ligon Sr., ANGELA NELSON DEUITCH “When I heard the remarks made Angela Nelson Deuitch, Ryan Strode, Since awarded the honor, Angela by board chairman Jim Walsh, I was Colette Weitknecht, James O’Connor, Nelson Deuitch, public affairs man- at once moved, heart-filled and a Timothy D. Rice, Beth Sciackitano, ager for NIPSCO, has refocused her bit in doubt if they had the correct John Cain, Ben Clement and Marty priorities, zeroing in on youth leader- person,” recalls Griffin, the long-time Corley. ship and mentoring. clerk-treasurer for the town of High- Five of them received top honors— “I realized that I was spreading land. “I know of so many who do so Cain, Nelson Deuitch, Corley, Clem- myself too thin, and I needed to much and quietly lead each day.” ent and Strode—recognized with focus on what I really have a passion Walsh told the hushed crowd that custom-made awards reflecting their for,” says Deuitch, a former Michigan not all heroes are leaders and not efforts through the years. City councilwoman who resides in all leaders are heroes. Griffin, how- that city with her husband and two ever, is both. “And he excels in every JOHN CAIN daughters, one in college, the other aspect of leadership,” Walsh told the “I was, as always, the oldest and in middle school. audience. whitest,” jokes John Cain, executive She has served on numerous Griffin, who exemplifies each role, director of South Shore Arts since boards, including CASA/Harmony quoted Voltaire in his modest accep- 1993 and executive director of the House, American Red Cross, United tance speech. But only after first Northwest Indiana Symphony since Way and Dunebrook, where she thanking his staff, friends and family, 2008. received the 2013 Lester Radke Com- including his wife Christy, his daugh- He was nominated by a longtime munity Service award. She also has ter Abigail and his father. supporter of his two beloved organi- hosted a college and scholarship “It is not lost on me that I am the first zations. “So, for me, the honor really workshop for—who else—local recipient of the award,” Griffin says. “I began there,” he says. “It’s one thing youth. am especially determined to merit the to be recognized by a state agency, “It’s about what you do, not just recognition, but also do nothing to quite another to be recognized what you say,” she says flatly. the detriment of the award’s nascent locally. I think that’s where it really A perfect illustration of this atti- yet special reputation.” matters.” tude played out last summer when The fund-raising awards presenta- Roughly 100,000 kids are served she took it upon herself to counsel tion honored 11 finalists by shining each year through his agency’s edu- the family of the young boy who a spotlight on local leaders who are cational programs and its grantees, was buried by Mount Baldy. During “often the unsung heroes in their and even more adults through simi- the emergency rescue mission, she communities,” says Keith Kirkpat- lar programs. Taking over the sym- sat and prayed with his family, once rick, SSLC’s president and CEO. “The phony was a bold and innovative again putting action into the word community leaders we are celebrat- move since general arts organiza- activist.

48 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 SPECIAL FEATURE Leaders as Heroes South Shore Leadership Awards recognize “our region’s greatest asset.”

Michael Griffin Beth Sciackitano and Brad Hemingway Angela Nelson Deuitch Marty Corley The Leadership Northwest Indiana less offerings. network of leaders we can draw on 34 graduate has a newfound appreci- “I was thrust into a leadership role that celebrates good work,” says ation for true leaders who take simi- because of my want for those around Strode, who has worked to promote lar action, not “bandwagoners,” who me to have better lives. And I’ll con- sustainable development and conser- instead are all talk. tinue to focus on helping others with- vation goals. Her job is public affairs manager out any recognition,” says Corley, As board president of Save the at NIPSCO, but her passion is to a member of Leadership LaPorte Dunes, he embodies its timeless help others. One pays the bills, the County. “This award has affected mantra—preserve, protect, restore. other pays her daily gratitude. And how I help my community, and it has He not only supports strengthen- her custom-made award is adorned made the community more accepting ing the organization through grass- with magnets for good reason; she of my will to help. Sometimes there’s roots efforts, he wants to expand its draws others toward her without a disconnect with the community and impact. much effort. the police force. I wanted to show- “The award represents a broader Deuitch’s advice to younger lead- case that we do care.” acknowledgment of the impact of ers of any age: Be authentic and be He cites the ripple-effect power of our organization and the incredible passionate about your career, your critical mass by enlisting five people work of our staff and volunteers,” he personal cause, your public activism. to conquer any challenge and, in says. “It serves as a testament to the “Also, surround yourself with turn, they enlist five people, and so importance of the organization and strong, positive people,” she says. “I on. our mission, which is the ultimate am who I am today because of those “Receiving this award was a great reward.” people I surrounded myself with.” honor, as it affirmed my dedication Strode supported multiple efforts to this community and hard work to promote renewable energy in MARTY CORLEY toward making other people’s lives the region, such as the installation For Michigan City police officer better,” he says. “The best part was of solar panels on Merrillville High Marty Corley, the adage “to serve and to be in the company of others who School. He also has taught courses protect” means more than merely share the same pursuit of happiness on nonprofits and social innovation responding to calls as a Michigan for others.” at Purdue University Calumet and City police officer. It means setting supported the development of a non- an example as a man, a public ser- RYAN STRODE profit curriculum for the university. vant and a Christian. Since Ryan Strode, associate direc- A teacher at heart, his advice to “We cannot save the world by our- tor of Arabella Advisors, walked in other aspiring leaders echoes his selves,” says Corley, who volunteers front of hundreds of guests to accept fellow honorees. time with a number of organizations his award, he has realized the strong “Strong leadership means creating in LaPorte County. “Just as Jesus community of leaders this region the conditions necessary for others enlisted the help of his disciples, we boasts. It’s a common refrain from to succeed,” he explains. “No one have to work with others to do the LNI graduates who become more can be successful on their own. We work that God has intended for us entrenched in this multi-county com- are all the product of those who we to do.” munity. work with. I would say that if you That work, for him, is serving holi- “It was a very humbling experi- put doing good for others at the day meals to the less fortunate, orga- ence to be honored among a group center of everything you do, every- nizing Easter egg hunts for inner city doing such important work in the thing else—being successful in your kids and serving on the Michigan region. It’s rewarding and incredibly career, a meaningful personal life— City school board, among other self- supportive to know there is a strong will fall into place.”

SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 49 BEN CLEMENT Ben Clement, president and CEO of Mediaflex, was probably more shocked than any other honoree, especially considering he was the last of the five to be announced. Why so surprised? “To receive such recognition is not only an honor but also somewhat surprising because hard work and effective leadership is often ignored or overlooked until the leader is in a casket and unable to hear the acco- lades or enjoy the foie gras.” The accomplished writer, actor, producer, motivational speaker and entrepre- neur says his award is now a fixture near his computer “as a constant reminder and motivator.” Clement has a long history of innovation and community impact in Gary through his initiatives in economic development, film and education. As director of economic development for that city, he pio- neered a film office and the film industry there. “‘Transformers 3’ director Michael Bay, is the most recognized film- maker in the industry, and filming in Gary shows our children that oppor- tunity is right here,” he says. Since 1997, he has served as exec- utive director of the Gary Office of Film and Television and, for the past five years, as president and CEO of Mediaflex, a marketing, media and crisis management firm. “My advice to younger leaders is to always exceed expectations,” he says. “Most will settle in the safe comfort of mediocrity. Find satisfac- tion in striving for excellence and inspiring others to do likewise.” REDEFINING COLLABORATION IN By constantly raising the bar, you can’t help but accomplish goals, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT achieve success and, as he puts it, “ultimately improve the human con- Leveraging our business contacts to promote collaboration. dition.” Connecting you with the right people at the right time. “If you do that someday you just might be recognized as a great Lead Economic Development Organization In Partnership with leader,” he suggests to others. “It starts on the individual level to see a spark in the eye, or spirit of a single student, up to a universal impact on sjchamber.org | 574.400.4000 | the world, to see that you are here for a reason.”

50 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

PHOTO BY PETE DOHERTY “Open for Business” Businesses that had been on the sidelines are ready to expand or relocate and the region is ready.

by Heidi Prescott Wieneke the company, each eager to cap- infrastructure (highways, fiber, port hen Urschel Laborato- ture the planned $100 million-plus and rail) and logistics—are touted by ries decided it needed to long-term investment and the 300 Northwest Indiana economic devel- W construct a new corpo- high-paying jobs. But over time, the opment leaders on a regular basis rate campus with a manufacturing Urschel family narrowed the search with companies such as Urschel. And plant, the Valparaiso-based company to the Midwest, where the company companies such as Alcoa. embarked on an extensive search talked with suitor communities in Illi- Gov. Mike Pence recently attended for a location. Urschel needed to nois, Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky and the groundbreaking for a new $110 find the right community, the right Indiana. million, 325,000-square-foot Alcoa region and the right site to position Urschel ultimately decided to aerospace manufacturing plant in the 100-year-old, family-owned busi- remain in Porter County, and in the LaPorte, where he emphasized Indi- ness for the next century. spring of 2015, it expects to move ana’s business-friendly environment. Regional economic development into a new 400,000-square-foot man- “Hoosiers are expert builders, con- leaders knew there was a chance ufacturing plant now under construc- structing airplane components and Urschel could leave Valparaiso and tion at a 160-acre site at Coffee Creek lifting our Indiana economy,” Pence the Midwest. Having expanded 28 Center in Chesterton. stated. “Companies are able to find times over four decades at a single “There were other more beneficial the resources they need to soar in landlocked site, Urschel took advan- locations that we could have gone Indiana, a state that works for busi- tage of the opportunity to search the with from a financial perspective,” ness.” globe in 2012 for the best place to Baker says. “But after all was said Alcoa decided to build its new locate its worldwide hub, where it and done, it was the labor force, the plant, where it will produce nickel- would continue making commercial geographics of where we are in the plated engine parts for commercial precision food processing equipment center of the country, and quality airliners, behind its existing local that’s used by most major food pro- of life in Northwest Indiana. There facility that manufactures parts for cessors in the U.S. and in more than wasn’t a specific one thing that made business and regional airliners. The 100 companies worldwide. up our minds; it was a culmination of physical expansion not only extends Bill Baker, director of real estate all the right business ingredients for the company’s market reach, but it for Urschel, says South Carolina, Ala- our company in Indiana.” will create more than 300 new jobs bama and Texas aggressively courted Those ingredients—workforce, in LaPorte over the next decade.

SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 51 But the Alcoa project was no slam nervous about each outcome, but we need to go above and beyond what dunk. Neither was the deal with Jae- knew we did everything we could is commonly done.” ger-Unitek, a German-based rubber possibly do. If a company decides to “People are sitting on funds and extrusion components manufacturer go somewhere else, you wish them they don’t know where to spend for the automotive industry. Like the best. But we’re not going to leave them,” says Heather Ennis, president Urschel, Jaeger-Unitek was aggres- anything up to chance.” and CEO of the Northwest Indiana sively courted by several Southern The best way to ensure nothing is Forum, a privately funded, regional states that, over a two-year period, left up to chance, Cook says, is by economic development corpora- tried to entice the company to relo- making sure economic development tion. “Uncertainty during the down- cate and expand outside Indiana. leaders across Northwest Indiana are turn caused so many people to hold “There was no point at which I on the same page and telling the dollars close to their vest, but now would have said ‘I’m sure about this same story as they work to market they cannot put moves and expan- one,’ or ‘I have complete confidence the region to prospective new busi- sions off any more. We’ve spent a this is going to go our way.’ These nesses. Regional leaders must share lot of time out marketing ourselves deals were super competitive, and one vision. strictly for this day. As the economy everyone wants to land projects that “Some counties want to do every- improves, people know we’re here yield success,” says Bert Cook, exec- thing and be everything to everyone, and they know our story.” utive director of the Greater LaPorte but then you only do marginal at a Ennis says the state’s regulatory Economic Development Corp., who lot of things. Some companies aren’t environment combined with the was involved in the Alcoa and Jae- willing to commit to that broad a proximity of Northwest Indiana to ger-Unitek deals. vision,” Cook says. “We’re a manufac- Chicago make the region ideal for “We have a strong manufacturing turing community and we embrace business prospects. “It’s no secret,” workforce that we can sell to a com- that. We are going to maximize our she says, “that the tax climate in Illi- pany. We tell them that we can find strengths and minimize our weak- nois is putting a stress on businesses you the people you need now and nesses. And we need to differentiate there. Whereas a southern Chicago into the future,” Cook says. “We were ourselves from the competition. We suburb was an attractive proposi-

52 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 tion before, now Northwest Indiana development in Northwest Indiana ville, says the continued economic is. That’s in addition to the fact that as the beginning of a “tidal wave.” recovery has been making his phone we’re seeing a resurgence in manu- “But I think that’s what we’re seeing, ring—a lot. facturing, and we know how to so I’m going to go ahead and say it.” “The recession was very deep and make things here. From solar panel Douglas, general manager at Indi- very severe and there was no build- components to steel that goes into ana Beverage, based in Valparaiso, ing activity. Now I would say it has some of the finest automobiles in says the recession offered those been between ‘great’ and ‘hot’ in the world, we have to keep talking in economic development time to interest in new construction,” says about what makes us great.” pause and consider the region’s core Lasser, who is vice chairman of the “The market is continuing to evolve strengths. new Lake County Economic Alliance. and it’s not going to wait because Having served on the board of the The LCEA, which is now seeking Northwest Indiana hasn’t adapted Northwest Indiana Forum for the an executive director, will work to yet. They need to keep coming up past seven years, Douglas has been strengthen economic development with innovative ways to keep up part of conversations that center on efforts in Crown Point, Gary, Ham- with the marketplace,” Urschel’s these regional cornerstones: trans- mond and Merrillville. Baker says. “The region has had portation, distribution and logistics, “There’s very low inventory so the some wins, and we should tout and or TDL, for short. market occupancy rate is very high. build upon them. But you should “There is a lot of money sitting on The lack of existing available prod- never be satisfied with the last deal. the sidelines,” Douglas says. “Busi- uct and space will drive the spec You should always be looking at the nesses have been waiting to make and build-to-suit markets. It points next deal.” decisions on where to invest those the arrow toward new construction,” And given the uptick in manufac- dollars, and when I look at the Lasser says. “This organization will turing, there will be a next deal. And moves Indiana has made in the last work to respond quickly when pros- a next deal. And a next deal. George several years, we’re ripe and prime.” pects show interest in these commu- Douglas is initially hesitant to refer David Lasser, president of Com- nities. This is a great breakthrough to the amount of increased economic mercial In-Sites, based in Merrill- for us.”

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Economic Development NEWSBITS continued from page 14 Merrillville-based Northern Indiana dential electric customers who own tion of the 27,000-square-foot metal Public Service Co. (NIPSCO) lead the or plan to buy or lease a new plug-in addition begins immediately on the charge to expand options available electric vehicle. current facility and is expected to be to drivers across Northern Indiana. NIPSCO is providing free over- completed this fall. Ten additional Over the last 15 years, SSCC has night charging from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. jobs will be added to Midwest Metal been a tireless advocate promoting through the initial pilot period. The Products workforce and hiring will the use of alternative fuels, tech- IN-Charge Around Town program, begin in winter 2014. The expansion nologies and strategies to reduce our on the other hand, provides $1 mil- was approved unanimously by the dependence on imported oil. “So, lion in incentives to NIPSCO’s com- Michigan City Council. it was a marriage made in heaven mercial and industrial customers to “I am excited about the commit- when NIPSCO chose SSCC as the expand the availability of public and ment Midwest Metal Products has administrator for their IN-Charge At workplace electric vehicle charging shown to Michigan City,” says Michi- Home and Around Town EV charg- stations across Northern Indiana. gan City Mayor Ron Meer. “It is excit- ing station incentive programs,” ing for Michigan City to have the says Carl Lisek, executive director of MIDWEST METAL PRODUCTS leading manufacturer of rolled angle South Shore Clean Cities. TO EXPAND rings and rolled structural shapes NIPSCO’s IN-Charge programs are Midwest Metal Products is expanding expand its U.S. headquarters here.” designed to promote the use of plug- its Michigan City facility through the Midwest Metal Product’s expan- in electric vehicles and reduce bar- help of area partners, maintaining sion is credited to the longevity of riers that limit adoption of EVs. The the family-owned business locally the business as well as support IN-Charge At Home program offers and creating new jobs. from area partners. “We chose Indi- residential customers up to $1,650 Midwest Metal Products has been a ana because we have been located toward the installation of a level 2 leading manufacturer of rolled angle here for over 30 years,” says Geoff home charging station. The program rings and rolled structural shapes Wendt, president of Midwest Metal is open to the first 250 NIPSCO resi- for more than 30 years. Construc- continued on page 60

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nwibq_summerad_final.indd 1 7/2/14 4:20 PM SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 55 SPORTS A Special Place Gary’s U.S. Steel Yard, home of the RailCats, where a child’s game is a way of life.

by Ben Smith reams are not born here, not in this small gem of brick D and wrought-iron, not in this lovely green space springing up in the lee of toll roads and train tracks and belching smokestacks. Dreams don’t even grow to manhood here. What they do is refuse to die. They refuse to go gently into these soft summer nights, where a child’s game—baseball—becomes a way of life not easily relinquished. And so it’s the Gary SouthShore RailCats vs. the Sioux Falls Canaries this particu- IT’S A HIT! The RailCats roster is for younger players on the way up and older players lar soft night, and let’s get to the not hanging on—and most of all, for athletes who love the game of baseball. relinquishing. There on the mound is the side- manager Greg Tagert, who’s been the He’s also one of the older RailCats arming dealer Kyle Ruwe for the visi- manager here for 10 seasons and has this season. The oldest is catcher tors, who might have come in with a guided the RailCats to three league Craig Maddox, who’s 29. The young- 1-4 record and 7.31 ERA but tonight titles, the most recent of which was est is infielder Caleb Palensky, who’s is mowing down RailCats like he’s just last year. “This is what they do. 22 and just joined the club. Jeff Samardzija of the Cubs, pitching Yeah, they may hold down a job in “The dynamic on the team is so this same night 40 miles and a world the offseason, but it really is an off- unique that the only other place it away. There at the plate is Wally season. Because their career is base- exists really is in the major leagues Backman Jr., 28 years old, 11 years ball.” itself,” says Tagert, who’s 51 and has a pro, still chasing the game that And it is fundamentally different been managing or coaching in pro- rewarded his namesake father with here than elsewhere in the minor fessional ball for 27 years. “There are 14 seasons in the major leagues. leagues. Off to the east, in South backstories here, whether it’s coming Ruwe comes set, sidewheels a Bend and Fort Wayne, it’s low-A off injuries or it’s players that just changeup. Backman swings, misses. ball in the Midwest League, and the caught up in the cliché ‘the numbers Welcome to life in the independent players are all farmhands of Arizona game.’ American Association, aka the North- and San Diego, 19, 20, 21 years old. “Top-round prospects, guys who ern League prior to this season. Here at the U.S. Steel Yard in Gary, were first-rounders who got lots of It’s a refuge for kids coming up the age is 21 to whatever; last year, money. We’ve had those guys. But and no-longer-kids hanging on, a Tagert says, the oldest RailCat was 37 probably more the norm than any- place for ballplayers to land who, for years old. thing is that career minor leaguer— whatever reason, are no longer being And their stories are just as varied. that guy who’s been in eight to 10 paid by a major-league organization. Somewhere in the roomy home minor league cities in his career. That “There’s all kind of different clubhouse, where players while away player, by the age of 28, 27, if it’s a guys—older guys, younger guys, the time before first pitch by playing person who loves being at the park, guys on the way up, guys on the way cards, grazing on the cold-cut buffet loves what he does, that person can down,” says the RailCats radio broad- or (this being 2014) bury their noses continue playing for a long time.” caster, Dan Vaughan. “It’s guys that in their iPhones, there’s a pitcher Backman’s that kind of guy. Out just have fun playing baseball, which named James Parr. He’s 28 and hails in the clubhouse, he leans against a is the cool thing about it.” from Albuquerque, N.M. And back table beneath a huge RailCats logo Of course, it’s more than just that. in 2008 and 2009, he pitched in five and takes you through his journey: “This is their career,” says RailCats games for the Atlanta Braves. continued on page 60

56 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 SPORTS PUBLIC SERVICE A Special Place Little City By the Lake Gary’s U.S. Steel Yard, home of the RailCats, Whiting celebrates its 125th year with a long list of big plans. where a child’s game is a way of life. by Michael Puente he great city planner Daniel Burnham once said, “Make T no little plans; they have no magic to stir men’s blood.” Burnham was referring to the big city of Chicago, but his words could easily be applied to the “Little City by the Lake,” Whiting, Indiana. Just a couple of miles from the Illi- nois-Indiana state line, Whiting and its 5,000 residents aren’t even 1 per- cent of Chicago’s 3 million residents. Still, Whiting, one of the oldest cities in Northwest Indiana, is making no little plans to celebrate its 125th anni- versary this year. BIG PLANS Whiting’s Lakefront development will be “We have about 78 active projects, a magnet to help the business district thrive. from playground renovation to a $15 around, considering its larger neigh- these projects, Stahura says, will sup- million museum project,” says Whit- boring cities could have swallowed port Whiting’s economy and keep ing Mayor Joe Stahura. up the community a long time ago. its downtown business along 119th Whiting is barely 3 square miles. “It’s a company town. The refin- Street district thriving. The city is the definition of being ery has always been a big part of the “Our business district is one of landlocked. Surrounded by the cities community. We’re really closely tied,” our key components of our com- of Hammond to its north and west, Stahura says. “They’ve been a great munity. Most small city downtowns East Chicago to its south and Lake corporate partner for a lot of years. As are absolutely disseminated or strug- Michigan to the east, Whiting can long as they are here, we’ll be here.” gling. We’re trying to bring as many only build up. The story of how Whiting and the people here that will eventually lead And, that’s exactly what it’s doing. refinery came to be will be included to increased tax revenue.” “We’re trying to turn the city into a in a museum that Stahura says is Another project in the works is destination, especially for folks in Chi- “very close” to being finalized. But an upscale apartment complex in cago,” Stahura said. “We are actually Whiting’s history will be just one downtown Whiting that will appeal part of the third-best market in the aspect of the museum. It will also to young professionals working in nation, with 9 million people living be home to the National Mascot Hall Chicago or for BP. Chicago developer within an hour of Whiting. Being that of Fame, which currently exists, but MVP Builders LLC is behind the new we’re 20 minutes from Chicago, we’re only on the Internet. Inductees so mixed-use, multimillion-dollar project. in a real favorable spot.” far include the Phillie Phanatic of The four-story building will include Whiting’s 125th anniversary is actu- the Philadelphia Phillies, the Suns 24 high-end, two-bedroom, two-bath ally tied to the groundbreaking of Gorilla of the Phoenix Suns and, of apartments, along with about 6,000 Standard Oil Co. by John D. Rocke- course, the most well-known mascot square feet of commercial and retail feller in 1889. Over the decades, Stan- ever, the San Diego Chicken. space on the ground floor. dard Oil would be renamed Amoco There will also be a third tenant. “When you add all the amenities, Oil, then BP-Amoco and now just BP. The Chicago Baseball Museum is we’re becoming more of an attractive BP’s Whiting Unit is the largest also expected to be a tenant, says destination for young adults in the Chi- inland refinery in the United States. It Stahura. “The land is clear and ready cago area,” Stahura says. “With new recently completed a $4 billion mod- to go,” Stahura says. “It will be a very, roads, new shopping opportunities, ernization, the largest private invest- very positive project for the town.” the new Lakefront park, bike trails, the ment in Indiana history. The city’s ongoing Lakefront quality of life has jumped consider- It’s because of the refinery, Stahura development is in its final stages ably. In the long run, five years down believes, that Whiting is even still but will likely include a hotel. All the road, everyone will benefit.”

SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 57 SMALL BUSINESS PROFILE Hoosier Spring Co. SBA recognizes Mike Suth as Indiana Small Business Person of the Year. PHOTO BY PETE DOHERTY

KNOW THE PRODUCT Pictured at Hoosier Spring Co. are Andy Suth, coiling foreman; Robert Suth, vice president; and Tim Kish, master machinist. by Jerry Davich compression springs. It specializes in made you a success in your busi- egardless of topic surrounding the manufacture, heat treatment and ness,” his notification letter stated. his family’s award-winning, inspection of precision springs and Mike Suth and his beloved busi- R third-generation business, wire forms for hundreds of top aero- ness were honored in early June at Greg Suth always springs back to his space, military, nuclear and industrial The Ritz Charles in Carmel. But, due father. “My dad was never afraid to companies around the world. to advanced stages of a type of Par- roll up his sleeves and work next to What began in 1954 in the base- kinson’s disease, he couldn’t attend his employees, grinding, deburring ment of a relative’s home with seven the event. In his place, his distin- and inspecting our products,” Suth employees and a bottomless bucket guished award was accepted by his says proudly. “He’d remind us that to of old-fashioned elbow grease even- three sons, Greg, Rob and Patrick, be successful in business today, you tually led to a workforce of 88 highly the latter two of whom also work have to know your product inside trained employees in a state-of the- in the company. “My dad cannot be and out and the best way to learn art manufacturing facility. Over the here today,” Greg told the crowd about your product is to be close to past six decades, the Suth family during his acceptance speech. “But those producing it. penned its own chapter for any book if he were he’d tell you how blessed “My dad would remind us to spend on the American Dream. he was working for his father and less time on our computers and more “It all goes back to my dad and his how much he learned from his time on the shop floor, as there is no dad and his uncles,” says Greg Suth, uncles, Frankie, Ernie, Johnny, Joe substitute for hands-on experience,” 45, who serves as company president. and Curly. Suth says. “And he’d always tell us all The personal and professional “He’d tell you his Uncle Frankie how great a feeling it was to make a accolades for Mike Suth come not was a genius of sorts, designing and customer happy.” only from his sons and family, but building his own tooling, capable And on it goes, story after story also from U.S. Small Business Admin- of making very complex springs— about his father, Mike Suth (pro- istration. In May, he was named the springs probably not capable of nounced like “tooth”), CEO of Hoo- 2014 Indiana Small Business Person being produced today with very sier Spring Co. Inc. The South Bend of the Year. “Congratulations, your sophisticated equipment. He’d tell company, with $14 million in annual hard work, innovative ideas and you of the countless millions of revenue, is a leading manufacturer of dedication to your community have springs coiled by Uncle Joe, ground

58 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 SMALL BUSINESS PROFILE

by Uncle Ernie and then inspected Simply put, Hoosier Spring products its bank debt, which has resulted in by Uncle Johnny so that our custom- can be found in most anything that an impressively low leverage, overall ers’ fuel nozzles, valves and braking flies. This leads to another anecdote net worth of almost $7 million and Hoosier Spring Co. systems functioned properly.” about Mike Suth, who served in the significant liquid assets,” according Mike grew up running the shop U.S. Air Force Reserve: He would to SBA data. SBA recognizes Mike Suth as Indiana Small Business Person of the Year. with his father, Emery Suth, who often tell his sons and workers about “If my dad were here today, here’s learned his craft working at The the many critical applications for what he wouldn’t tell you,” Greg told Bendix Corp. in South Bend. There, their springs, saying, “People’s lives the crowd at the awards ceremony. Emery hand-wound springs for a depend on it.” For example, in 2009 He routinely paid school tuition variety of new products before start- when U.S. Airways Flight 1549 lost payments for his employees’ kids ing out on his own when Bendix engine power and was landed in the while never owning up to it. And dropped the particular business line Hudson River by pilot Capt. Chesley he enjoyed celebrating “Christmas he manufactured. In 1990, Mike Sullenberger. Suth proudly reminded in June,” the end of the fiscal year faced his biggest challenge when his everyone that the company’s springs when the company’s profits were father died and he suddenly found on that seemingly doomed jet func- shared by all. himself at the helm of the company tioned exactly how they should “He truly looked forward to this day at a competitive crossroads. With the have, allowing “Sully” to land the and, in almost childlike fashion, was business almost exclusively tied to plane safely. often found whispering bonus num- the automotive industry, he devel- Within the past 10 years, the com- bers in employees’ ears in the days oped a strategy to diversify the client pany’s sales have nearly doubled leading up to it,” his son says. “Lastly,” base and branch out into new appli- and, in that time period, profits Greg told the crowd, “he’d remind us cations. It worked. have soared from $50,000 annually all to thank the good Lord above for Today, the company has several to almost $1 million. “During this our own good health and the health Fortune 500 companies as custom- time, the company has been able of our families, and then he’d offer ers, including several client relation- to manage its significant growth prayers for those who were sick. This ships dating back more than 30 years. while at the same time eliminating award is a tribute to my father.”

SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 59 NEWSBITS continued from page 55 Products. “Our objective is to manu- ceremony at the Executive Man- MONOSOL LLC facture products of the highest qual- sion in Springfield to collect the BREAKS GROUND ON ity, provide superior service, product award in the Business Category for MANUFACTURING FACILITY availability and expert technical Northeast Illinois. The Governor’s MonoSol LLC, A Kuraray Company, assistance at the lowest possible cost Volunteer Service Awards focus on the world leader in water-soluble to our customers.” economic opportunity, education, delivery systems, has broken ground environmental conservation, disas- for its new high-tech production FIFTH THIRD BANK ter preparedness and response and facility, Duneland Site, in Portage’s RECEIVES GOVERNOR’S health and veterans affairs, across Ameriplex at the Port. VOLUNTEER SERVICE five service regions in Illinois. Since The new production facility will AWARD 2011, Fifth Third Bank’s employee- feed the growing global demand for Fifth Third Bank was recently led veterans campaign has provided all water-soluble film products, as honored by Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn educational scholarships to family MonoSol takes a large integration step and the Serve Illinois Commission members of soldiers wounded or as the core of the Kuraray WS Film with the Illinois Governor’s Vol- killed, raising in excess of $300,000 Division. It will be constructed in three unteer Service Award. The awards through the Folds of Honor Foun- phases with the first phase scheduled recognize individual volunteers dation. The campaign also includes to be operational in late 2016, with and volunteer programs through a extensive volunteer efforts through- an approximate 15 percent capacity statewide award program designed out the bank’s footprint at local increase, with the final phase complete to highlight the importance of vol- veterans homes, organizations and by the end of 2020. When fully opera- unteerism and community service VA hospitals, including sponsoring tional, the plant will create at least 150 in the State of Illinois. The bank dogs through War Dogs Making new jobs. Hiring will commence mid- was nominated by the USO of Illi- it Home, which pairs rescue dogs 2015 for the 2016 opening. The Ross nois. Bank representatives were with veterans suffering from PTSD Group has been retained as the gen- in attendance last week during a or traumatic brain injury. eral contractor for the project.

loss to the Canaries. It drops the Rail- and balls and copies of his book, “I SPORTS continued from page 56 Cats to 20-16 on the season, which Told You I Wasn’t Perfect,” sits Tigers Drafted by the Rangers in 2004, still leaves them comfortably in front legend Denny McLain, for whom the played four years in the organization, in the Central Division of a 12-team U.S. Steel Yard has become a regu- wound up with Joliet in the Northern league that sprawls from Winnipeg lar stop on the lucrative memorabilia League in 2009. Played there for a in Canada to Amarillo in Texas. circuit. couple years, played in Tucson (Ari- Not that the fans mind. There aren’t “Two hundred appearances a year. zona) for a year or so, played three many this night—a thunderstorm and Everywhere,” McLain says—and then in Sioux City back in the Northern the threat of more holds the atten- hands out a business card that reads League before getting hurt last year, dance to 1,917—but the RailCats are Top of the Mound Productions Inc. playing out his contract and signing pulling in 3,725 fans per game to the It’s a small reminder of the hold with the RailCats. Steel Yard, a handsome 6,139-seat baseball still has on America, even “I wanted to play for a manager facility that was built in 2002 and here, even now in the deep shadow that wants to win, that runs a good includes wide concourses, a video of the NFL. team and is always striving to win board in center and a unique vista. “I get asked all the time, ‘What is and make his club better,” says Back- Just beyond center field, the South independent baseball?’” says Tagert, man, who, oddly enough, didn’t start Shore Line rumbles past. Beyond that whose fondest baseball memory is playing baseball until his dad retired looms the Interstate 80/90 overpass, busing back 13 hours from Wichita and the family settled in Oregon traffic rumbling steadily east toward last year after clinching the title, and when he was 10 or so. “You know, Ohio. And beyond that, graffiti- finding 500 fans waiting for them there’s a range of guys in this league. scarred freight cars clatter past, and at midnight. “What it is, the differ- You go out there and there’s a differ- billows of white smoke rise from ence is, it belongs to this community. ent competition every night. You’re their stacks. There are 3,000 people a night that either facing a low-A guy, or you’re Yet the RailCats thrive here. come here and really feel like the facing a guy who pitched in the big Tonight, down behind home plate, RailCats belong to them. The Rail- leagues. So you prepare yourself there’s a clot of kids all dressed in Cats have become a special place, every day the same and try to go out red; say hello to the 9U Shock from and that’s what we’ve tried to at least there and do the best you can.” just down Interstate 65 in Scher- have the culture be about here. For Backman this night, that means erville. And on the concourse, behind “I wouldn’t trade this stadium for going 2-for-4 with an RBI in a 6-3 a table piled high with signed bats any place.”

60 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 MAKING A DIFFERENCE Nurturing Innovation Pfeil Innovation Center serves businesses and organizations alike.

by Lauren Caggiano ecessity may be the mother of invention. But what about N innovation? It can be argued that the Pfeil Innovation Center is the purveyor of innovation in the South Bend/Michiana area. In the words of lead faculty Mat- thew Krathwohl, the Pfeil Innovation Center “brings innovation into real- ity.” The Pfeil Innovation Center is “a gift to the region” from Beacon Health System, the parent organiza- tion of Memorial Hospital of South Bend, under the leadership of CEO Philip A. Newbold and through the generosity of Richard J. Pfeil. THE MOTHER OF INNOVATION The Pfeil Innovation Center. Krathwohl is responsible for lead- training, meals and a workbook. sions have a ripple effect beyond the ing the Pfeil Innovation Center and What’s unique about this program participants or organization itself. By implementing Beacon’s Innovation is that it’s accessible to organizations embracing this culture of innovation, intent. He is an accomplished exec- in all sectors and industries, Krath- organizations can change the “eco- utive with more than 15 years of wohl says. For-profit, non-profit and nomic trajectory of the region. “ He experience in leading key strategic governmental organization alike will points to the recent economic down- initiatives to achieve sustained orga- find the material relevant. For exam- town as a turning point that chal- nizational improvements. ple, professionals from Nylon Craft, lenged businesses to think differently But how are those abstract con- Hiler Industries, Notre Dame Federal about how they conduct business. cepts translated into actionable Credit Union and Junior League of Cost-cutting and layoffs were the results? Pfeil’s hallmark initiative South Bend are all alumni and suc- norm. Now that the local economy includes two-day, four-hour immer- cess stories. has made a comeback, he says it’s sion session for business people that “It’s been amazing to be a part of imperative that companies “learn the provides the tools to think about and that,” Krathwohl says. tools and methodologies of innova- execute innovation at any organiza- Speaking of the material, the tion to achieve that growth.” tion. Since 2011, 800 professionals classes cover such topics as anchor “Pfeil is passionate about adding jobs have gone through the immersion. points, plagues, strategy and envi- to the economy,” he says. “Our pro- That translates to about 40 sessions, ronment. The bottom line: “Any of grams are designed to help the area which are held on the Pfeil campus. us can become an everyday Edison,” become the ‘go to’ place for innovation.” The center’s design is just as much a says Krathwohl. Another way Pfeil contributes to part of the experience as the curricu- But Krathwohl cautions innova- the economic momentum is by offer- lum. A mobile dry erase board, round- tion does not happen in a vacuum. It ing other onsite programming. For table type seating and kinesthetic speaks volumes when the CEO par- example, it regularly conducts social learning aids all facilitate the environ- ticipates in the immersion alongside events for alumni to gather and share ment of innovation. An ancillary space staff, as the culture trickles down knowledge. It also brings in speakers known as “the cocoon” is a nontra- from him or her. Also, a team-cen- for one-time seminars. Additionally, ditional area, with a vaulted ceiling, tric approach is beneficial because it the facility is available for rental for mood lighting and waterfalls. This “low encourages collaboration and feel- corporate retreats and other needs. stimulus” environment is designed to ings of validation. Krathwohl highly To learn more about the Pfeil be soothing, Krathwohl says. A deli recommends bringing new hires to Innovation Center or to register for style diner, “Doodle’s Diner,” also the immersion to acclimate them to their programs, visit www.wakeu- adds to the theme of innovation. The the business culture. pandsmelltheinnovation.com, or call $150 fee per participant covers the According to Krathwohl, the ses- 574/647-6953.

SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 61 MADE IN INDIANA Giving Business a Lift Vermette Machine Co. products move kegs, signs and other heavy items.

by Phillip Britt the company’s other popular lift f a company needs to lift products, particularly those used an air conditioning or heat- in the HVAC industry, have been I ing unit, multiple beer kegs around since the 1970s, and are or a variety of other materials, manufactured with equipment one of the first calls will likely at least that old or older—one be to Hammond-based Vermette of the company’s machines was Machine Co. Inc. built before the company was The company opened its doors founded. The devices are also in 1947 with one employee, used to lift large signs, like those Howard H. Vermette, the owner, in front of buildings. product designer and manager. The two most popular lifts have The first product was a power capacities of 500 pounds and pipe threading machine, used by can lift materials up to 14 feet hardware stores and the plumb- and 22 feet. Other models have ing trade. higher load capacities. All of the The manufacturer of the power lifts have sectional designs so that pipe threading machine required they can be dissembled and reas- only a 20-by-30-foot location. sembled as necessary for easy The company incorporated and maneuvering through buildings. moved to a 50-by-50 building five “When companies need some- years later, expanding the build- thing lifted, they come to us. If we ing multiple times to its current don’t have the right product, we 42,000 square feet. POWER LIFTING Vermette Machine Co. see if we can make it,” says com- Vermette’s business evolved makes the popular Keg Jockey. pany president Joseph Geisen, from manufacturing the original who started on the assembly floor pipe threading machine to a portable well-built from the start, so units are with Vermette 40 years ago. He took power drive for the plumbing trade in place for years and replacement over the company’s leadership after before copper tubing and plastic pipe parts aren’t needed often. the death of Howard’s wife in 1999, started dominating those markets. One of the company’s most popu- who had operated the company from The company’s present products lar products right now is the Vermette the time of the founder’s death in since 1962 are hand-operated fork Keg Jockey, a needle loader bearing 1984. He and vice president Edward lifts, jacks and winches for lifting winch that does all the heavy (up to Hayes can be found doing various and installation of materials used by 400 pounds) lifting and moving of jobs in and around the building as heating, air conditioning, refrigera- kegs, so employees don’t have to well as attending to vendors, ship- tion, electrical, plumbing and gen- strain themselves with the lifting. The ments and other management details of the employee-owned company. “We do whatever needs to be “When companies need something lifted, done to keep the company running,” Geisen says. they come to us.” The Keg Jockey was built to meet the needs of a particular customer. eral contractors in commercial and Keg Jockey includes pneumatic tires As soon as it was in use, other cus- industrial buildings. On any day, and swivel casters for easy maneu- tomers in the hotel, casino and the company is manufacturing or vering, and is small enough to easily liquor market wanted one or more. shipping its products to customers fit through doorways. The device Vermette continues to look for other around the U.S. and in 53 different includes a hook to lift the keg from opportunities to make custom lift foreign countries. the top for easier stacking. devices that can be developed for Vermette also makes replacement While the Keg Jockey is one of the one customer and then brought out parts for its devices, but they are company’s newer products, many of to a larger market.

62 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 MADE IN INDIANA LEGAL ADVICE Giving Business a Lift Changing Definitions Vermette Machine Co. products move kegs, signs and other heavy items. Businesses must keep an eye on the courts and be ready to adapt to new marriage laws. Nancy Townsend

by Nancy Townsend tions also changed ERISA rights aris- employees each have their 12 weeks’ ndiana’s Defense of Marriage Act ing from Qualified Joint and Survivor leave for those purposes. (DOMA), which prohibited same- Annuities, Qualified Pre-Retirement Isex marriage and refused to rec- Survivor Annuities, IRA rollover dis- STATE EMPLOYMENT LAWS ognize same-sex marriages from other tributions, QDROs, hardship distri- AFTER BASKIN states, was ruled unconstitutional on butions from 401(k)s and 403(b)s, The decision in Baskin, if affirmed, June 25. Chief Judge Richard L. Young spousal consent for employee loans, will also impact other Indiana employ- entered a final judgment in three fed- and spouses’ rights to defer distribu- ment statutes. An unemployed person eral lawsuits that challenged Indiana’s tions from retirement plans. who moves to join a same-sex spouse DOMA: Baskin v. Bogan, Fujii v. Indi- in another region will retain eligibility ana Governor, and Lee v. Pence. The FMLA RIGHTS AFTER for Indiana unemployment benefits. Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals quickly WINDSOR AND BASKIN Likewise, employees will be entitled to stayed that ruling pending appeal, The Federal Family and Medical Indiana military family leave when their but the case presents a likelihood that Leave Act (FMLA) requires employers same-sex spouses are ordered to active Indiana employers will be required to with 50 or more employees to allow duty. Same-sex spouses would also recognize the validity of their employ- unpaid leave to care for a spouse have spousal rights under Indiana Small ees’ same-sex marriages. The ruling in with a serious health condition. After Employer Group Health Insurance. Baskin followed a decision by the U.S. Windsor, Labor Department regu- Supreme Court in United States v. Wind- lations controlled FMLA leave and KEEPING UP IN sor in June 2013, invalidating a por- defined spouse as “husband or wife THE WORKPLACE tion of the federal DOMA, which had as defined or recognized under state As these laws change, Indiana employ- defined marriage for purposes of fed- law, for purposes of marriage in the ers and ERISA plan sponsors must adapt eral law as “only a legal union between state where the employee resides.” by updating ERISA plan documents, one man and one woman.” If Baskin is affirmed, it will require administrative procedures and forms Indiana to recognize same-sex mar- that define “spouse”; updating company ERISA RIGHTS riages and will require Indiana policies for documenting marriages, AFTER WINDSOR employers to allow FMLA leave to civil unions and domestic partner- After Windsor, the U.S. Department care for same-sex spouses of Indiana ships and their validity; implementing of Labor changed the definition of residents. Illinois residents must cur- changes with managers and adminis- “spouse” under ERISA to mean any rently be allowed FMLA leave to care trative personnel to ensure they under- individuals who are lawfully mar- for their same-sex spouses because stand the changes in ERISA benefits, ried under any state law. The revised Illinois allows and recognizes same- leave requirements and other employee definition affected ERISA health sex marriages. Indiana’s other border rights; and updating employee hand- and welfare rights: tax treatment of states, Kentucky, Michigan and Ohio, books and communicating changes to employees’ health care premiums for do not currently allow or recognize employees, emphasizing the need for same-sex spouses under IRS Section same-sex marriages but that may documentation of marital status and 125 premium-only plans; employ- soon change. Federal courts have updated beneficiary designations. ees’ use of pre-tax dollars to pay ordered those states to recognize Nancy J. Townsend is an associate for needs of same-sex spouses from same-sex marriages but have stayed with Burke Costanza & Carberry LLP. FSA and HSA accounts or reimburse- the orders during the appeals. She has wide experience in state and ments from employer-sponsored Interestingly, same-sex mar- federal courts at all levels, beginning HRAs; continuing COBRA coverage ried couples working for the same with her service as a law clerk in the for same-sex spouses; HIPAA special employer might now find themselves U.S. District Court for the Northern enrollment privileges for the same- with less “Bonding Leave” or “Par- District of Indiana in 1985. She has sex spouse; and same-sex depen- enting Care Leave” because married more than 20 years’ business and dent care through the Dependent employees must share those types commercial experience in the North- Care Assistance Program. The defini- of FMLA leave whereas unmarried west Indiana legal community.

SUMMER–FALL 2014 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY 63 VIEWPOINT

Extend the South Shore Line Bill Hanna Thousands of jobs and new prosperity will ride into the region.

by Bill Hanna Shore 20-Year Strategic Business Plan in the region and access to jobs that xpanding the South Shore calls for $1.16 billion total in new pay, on average, 40 percent more in Line will give us the oppor- projects, such as station upgrades, Chicago—is so great that it justifies E tunity to increase connectivity reroutes, new double tracks and an sacrifices in other areas. It could be to Chicago, one of the world’s largest eight-mile extension to Dyer. a very long time before Northwest economies. Since 1970, Lake County The West Lake extension, which is Indiana sees another opportunity of has experienced a decline in popu- estimated to cost around $571 million, this magnitude. lation and median income. In order would head south from Hammond In addition to the economic bene- to reverse these trends we must con- and head into Munster and Dyer. fits of rail investment, the plan repre- nect the great resources and invest- The project has been championed sents the fulfillment of an obligation ments already made in Northwest Indiana to Chicago. “Investing in the South Shore rail It could be a very long time before line, and all of our transportation infrastructure, is essential to creat- Northwest Indiana sees another ing jobs and having a sound regional economy. This investment in North- opportunity of this magnitude. west Indiana will provide jobs for generations to come,” says U.S. Rep. by Rep. Visclosky, D-Merrillville, to future generations, says RDA vice Pete Visclosky. with secured financial commitments chairman Harley Snyder. The Northern Indiana Commuter from most of the communities in Bill Hanna is President and CEO Transportation District and the North- Lake County, the Indiana General of the Northwest Indiana Regional west Indiana Regional Development Assembly and the RDA. The project Development Authority. Prior to his Authority (RDA) presented the execu- requires about 50 percent of its funds current assignment, Hanna was the tive summary of their joint 20-Year to come from local and state sources, city manager for Valparaiso for three Strategic Business Plan for commuter with the balance coming from the years, and the economic develop- rail in Northern Indiana to members federal government. It would be ment director for Valparaiso and vice of the press recently. The plan incor- built between 2018 and 2022. president of the Valparaiso Economic porates the West Lake Corridor expan- The RDA has been very encour- Development Corp. Hanna earned sion project as well as improvements aged by the broad support for the his juris doctor from Valparaiso to the existing line that will boost effi- project and we are hopeful the few University, his MBA from National- ciency, reliability and safety. communities that have yet to pledge Louis University in Chicago, and his Of all the projects outlined in the funds for expansion will do so in the bachelor’s degree in organizational plan, the West Lake extension is near future. If the local match comes management and human resources among the most impactful. By provid- up a bit short, we could rearrange from Colorado Christian University. ing increased access to high-paying the start dates on some of our other His military career in the U.S. Army jobs in Chicago, the expansion project projects to free up more funds. It is as a paratrooper from 1995 to 1999 and related improvements are pro- regrettable that other projects could included membership in the Army’s jected to add nearly 2,000 non-com- suffer, but the potential economic Official Presidential Escort and ser- muter jobs to the Northwest Indiana impact of the West Lake Corridor— vice as the head trainer/guard at economy and add $2.5 billion annu- including thousands of construction the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in ally in economic output. The South jobs, thousands of permanent jobs Washington, D.C.

64 NORTHWEST INDIANA BUSINESS QUARTERLY SUMMER–FALL 2014 VIEWPOINT

The Porter Regional Hospital Health At Work program provides a full suite of job-related medical services. Our goal is to help prevent and reduce workplace illnesses and injuries and 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. Extend the • Workers’ compensation coordination • Occupational health services • Preventive health and wellness services • General health service coordination South Shore Line • Personalized health coaching with certified nurse health coaches Thousands of jobs and new prosperity will ride into the region. HEALTHIER EMPLOYEES CAN MEAN A HEALTHIER BOTTOM LINE.

Health At Work Clinic 809 LaPorte Avenue, Valparaiso Portage Clinic Opening Soon Portage Hospital 3630 Willowcreek Road, Portage

Occupational Health and Corporate Wellness

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.

76062_PORTE_HAW_8_125x10_875c.indd 1 4/8/14 9:37 AM Until you have your baby, you’re our baby

o pening July 8, 2014!

Our team of specialists treats every mother like one of their own – offering unparalleled care available 24/7 with your comfort and safety in mind. We used our experience gained from thousands of births to build an all-new state-of-the-art family birthing center – one of the most advanced in NW Indiana. Experience the newly-built Family Birthing Center • Proudly part of Community Hospital – the only Indiana hospital awarded Healthgrades® America’s 50 Best Hospitals 7 years in a row, 2008-2014 • One of the most experienced hospitals in our local area, delivering the most babies per year • The only NW Indiana hospital with board-certified neonatologists in-house around the clock • Ultramodern medical facilities and equipment, including Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit www.comhs.org/community 901 MacArthur Blvd. Munster, IN 46321 219 • 836 • 3477 or 866 • 836 • 3477