The Magazine of the Greater Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce Volume 4 Issue 3Summer 2004

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contents5Sweet Home ValparaisoHow and Why We Live Where We Live.

From the PresidentThis may turn out to be my favorite issue of Valparaiso Magazine. I think if you put all theother topics we have covered in our nearly three years of publishing in the perspective of thisissue’s theme, “Sweet Home Valparaiso,” you come to the natural conclusion that Valpo is agreat place to live, work and play. That’s what this magazine is all about. But this particulartheme gets to the personality of our community through its neighborhood developments. Aswith most of our topics, we don’t have the space to really do justice to our topic and we onlyscratch the surface of living in our great neighborhoods too.

What I really think is captured in our stories about where and how we live in ourneighborhoods is the very essence of the values of the people who live and work in Valpo. I truly believe it allstarts in the neighborhoods in which we live; knowing & interacting with our neighbors and helping ourneighbors, that extends into every other aspect of our community. It is why maintaining our neighborhood parksystem is so precious to us. It is why our neighborhood schools are so reflective of the people living around them.It is why we have neighborhood restaurants sprinkled throughout the community. It is why we have such agreat sense of caring and pride literally throughout Valparaiso that is so evident to residents and visitors alike.

And it is why the people who work for our City have such great pride in taking care of our streets andprotecting us from harm (have you seen the new bike cops?) and saving us from tragedy and danger. It is why wehave such tremendous support for community projects such as Rebuilding Together, the Day of Caring, andcountless community and neighborhood projects from building Valplayso (celebrating its 10th anniversary thisyear!) or contributing to United Way, Hilltop House, the Caring Place and so many others. It is the price we payto live here, and it is the price we pay willingly to maintain this strong sense of community and neighborhoodand helping and caring for others.

I may be the consummate connoisseur of living in a variety of neighborhoods and homes in Valpo.Ask my family how many places I’ve lived and they’ll tell you they stopped counting. It’s because there are somany wonderful places to experience in this great neighborhood community that I keep finding new ones toenjoy! Many of you know that I also took an opportunity to experience another community for a few years andmoved back to Valpo and the Chamber in 2001. It was wonderful for me to experience another community, itspeople and culture, and I honestly did enjoy living in Richmond. I have great memories and treasure the friendsI now have in that part of the state. But, for me, this truly is “Sweet Home Valparaiso” and I couldn’t be happierto once again enjoy the wonderful values of all of the neighborhoods that make Valpo so great.

Deb ButterfieldPresidentValpo Chamber and Valparaiso Economic Development Corporation

SUMMER 2 0 0 4A publication of the Greater Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce162 W. LincolnwayValparaiso, IN 46383Phone: (219) 462-1105 Fax: (219) 462-5710gvcc@valparaisochamber.orghttp://www.valparaisochamber.org

GreaterValparaiso Chamber of CommerceDeb Butterfield,PresidentAmy Page,Vice President,Member ServicesJulie Gaskell, Administrative AssistantTina St.Aubin, Special Events CoordinatorDanielle Oeding and Sue Raber, Advertising and Membership SalesMary Wherrett,BookkeeperDebbie Niccolai and Bonnie Fortener,Support Staff

Valparaiso MagazinePublisher: The Greater Valparaiso Chamber of CommerceDesign and Production: R SIRKO DesignCover Photo: Aran Kessler Photo ImagingFeature Photos: R SIRKO Design and Aran Kessler Photo ImagingEditor: R SIRKO DesignPrinting: Home Mountain Publishing, Inc.Mailing: Flanagin’s Bulk Mail Service

10From Broadway shows and edgy,contemporary theater tomusicians and bands thatappeal to a wide variety of tastes,the Valparaiso small venuescene is rich and vibrant.

5Valparaiso is a city ofneighborhoods, each with itsown identity, its own sense ofcommunity and its own senseof self.

14From quiet candlelight to familyfun and boisterous sports bars,Valparaiso offers diningexperiences to suit every style,occasion and palate.

12-132004 CommunityImprovement Award winners.

InsertHalf Century Awards

VALPARAISO MAGAZINE is published quarterly bythe Greater Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce,P.O. Box 330, Valparaiso, IN 46384-0330. To submit“Calendar of Events” or “Around Town” entries, call(219) 462-1105 or send to:gvcc@valparaisochamber.org, Attn: Editor.For advertising inquiries, call 462-1105 or fax to: (219) 462-5710, Attn: Magazine Ad Sales. VALPARAISO MAGAZINE circulates 16,500 copiesper issue by direct mail to all businesses, and, on arotating basis, to most households in the 46383,46384 and 46385 zip codes. Subscriptions may bepurchased at an annual rate of $12, for those outsideour regular circulation.

SECTIONS: | Calendar of Events 4,23 New Chamber Members 16 | Word on the Street 20

Feature Stories Special Features

Home Mountain toput graphic here.

Cover:Foreground—Bob & Sandy CoolmanInside left to right—Keith & Becky Kirkpatrick,Bill & Rose Ferngren and Jack the Dog.

July 10 -11,16 – 18, 24 - 25“Damn Yankees”Memorial Opera HouseFri-Sat: 8:00 pm, Sun: 2:00 pm(219) 548-9137

July 16Concerts in Nature:Music Under the Stars7:00 pm – 9:00 pmTaltree Arboretum & Gardens450 W 100 N, Valparaiso(219) 462-0025

July 22Valpo Chamber Business AfterHours5:00 pm - 7:00 pmChandana Pointe Apartments1600-2 Point Dr.(219) 531-2866

July 22 - 31Porter County FairPorter County Expo Center &Fairgrounds7:00 am - 10:30 pm(219) 464-0133

July 25Concerts in Nature:Sunday Sounds2:00 pm – 4:00 pmTaltree Arboretum & Gardens450 W 100 N, Valparaiso(219) 462-0025

July 253rd Annual CreeksideClassic Golf Outing1:00 pmCreekside Golf Course2355 Clifford Rd(219) 531-7888

August 4A.M.Valpo7:00 am – 8:00 amChocolate Café – South BendChocolate Factory57 Franklin St.– Downtown (219) 462-1105

August 6Valpo Chamber’s Lu-WOW!Porter County Parking Garage -RooftopIndiana Ave.7:00 pm - 11:00 pm(219) 462-1105

August 7 - 8Chesterton Art FairHawthorne Park10:00 am - 5:00 pm(219) 926-4711

August 13Valpo Young Professionals After 55:00 pm – 8:00 pmBuddy & Pal’s3530 N.Calumet Ave.(219) 462-6063

August 19Valpo Chamber Business After Hours5:00 pm - 7:00 pmVU – Christopher CenterValparaiso University(219) 464-5114

August 19Valpo Chamber Percolator Luncheon“ReducingVoluntaryEmployeeTurnover”Dr.Charlie Hobson,

School of Business & EconomicsIndiana University NWSponsored by:Express Personnel Services & McMahon Associates,Inc.Noon - 1:00 pmStrongbow Inn(219) 462-1105

August 20Concerts in Nature:Music Under the Stars7:00 pm – 9:00 pmTaltree Arboretum & Gardens450 W 100 N, Valparaiso(219) 462-0025

August 21 - 22Midwest Corvette and Chevy ShowSwap and AuctionPorter County Expo Center8:00 am - 5:00 pm(219) 464-9918

August 22Concerts in Nature:Sunday Sounds2:00 pm – 4:00 pmTaltree Arboretum & Gardens450 W 100 N, Valparaiso(219) 462-0025

August 25Valparaiso Community SchoolsClasses begin

August 28Kouts Pork FestDowntown Kouts8:00 am - 5:00 pm(219) 766-3217

Calendar of EventsFrom the Chairman

Many houses in our neighborhoods have balloons lofting up from theirmailboxes. We have come to understand that this is a signal used tocommunicate a graduation celebration. The graduation of our youngsters alsobrings on a mixture of emotions. We are happy that they have successfullyachieved an important milestone in their lives but we are also a bit sad becausesome of these youngsters will be leaving our community to pursue work, themilitary or college endeavors. We will miss those who leave us and await thepossibility that one day they may return to “Sweet Home Valparaiso” to work andto raise their families.

The Greater Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce places economicdevelopment as its most important task. The Chamber continually seeksopportunities to attract new business ventures and to simultaneously retain thewonderful business enterprises that we have. Pursuing both of these taskssimultaneously maximizes the possibility that the job base will be able to expandand achieve greater diversification. The obvious benefit to our community is thatour friends and neighbors will have greater opportunities for continuedemployment that is a bit more protected from the volatility of our economy thanperhaps it has been in the past.

Your Chamber will continue to place economic development at the top of itsagenda. The benefits of doing so are almost self-evident; however, perhaps onebenefit that may not be so self-evident is that many of those graduates who will beleaving us, even for a short time, may have an even greater opportunity to comeback to “Sweet Home Valparaiso” to work and to raise their families. For the timebeing, it is a wonderful feeling to have so many of our graduates experiencesuccess in the workplace, in their universities and in their communities. A

continued on page 23

continued on page 17

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Valparaiso is a city of neighborhoods, eachwith its own identity, its own sense ofcommunity, and its own sense of self. Whilethese neighborhoods certainly look and feeldifferent, while they are located in different

parts of the city according to some fundamental needs ofthe homeowners, they share a set of core values that we, asa country, began to move away from after World War II.Now, as a country, we have a growing appreciation forthose values that make people good neighbors, that makeneighborhoods enticing places to live out our lives, andthat enable communities to flourish and prosper.

Bob Coolman is President of Coolman Communities,Inc., a local building and development company that hisparents started almost 50 years ago. He’s been in thebusiness his whole life. “I grew up on my parents’ farmsouth of town. By the time I was ten years old, I wasdriving a tractor, helping to subdivide the land.”

Like other communities across America, Valparaiso’sneighborhoods followed particular pre-war and post-wartrends. Bob explains: “Historically, developmentpatterns were very different, especially when we tend tothink about diversity in our communities. What peopleperceive as historic downtown Valparaiso--bordered byGrand Trunk on the North, Norfolk Southern on theSouth, Roosevelt on the East and Elmhurst on the West--these were all developed before the automobile was afactor in neighborhood development. In that area, there isa tendency to have signature homes on the North/Southstreets and a variety of middle-income homes on the crossstreets that all have tree names. This changed during theDepression when a lot of those signature homes werecarved up into multiple family dwellings.

After World War II, automobiles helped redefine livingenvironments. They were the driving factor behindcommunity development. Mobility began to drive a more

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Sweet Home Valparaisoby Harry J.KarabelHow and Why we live where we live

What life have you if youhave not life together? There is no life that isnot in community.

T.S. Eliot

Quaint and elegant homescan be found at TheVillage of Aberdeen.

intentional segregation of housing types and communitystructures. Our culture has a tendency toward makingthat mobility be perceived as more desirable.”

Zoning also contributed to segregating communities.An outgrowth of the industrial revolution, zoningcreated separate, industrial sectors so that people couldlive away from the noise, waste and pollutiontraditionally associated with factory work. Othercommercial and industrial properties were treated in the

same way so that eventuallybusiness and community wascompletely separated.Traffic engineers also took

over development, andcreated a hierarchy of streetswith cul-de-sacs and feederstreets and zonedcommercial areas. This, inturn, dictated residentialpatterns.In the 80s and 90s,

developers realized they werecreating social problems bycreating these segregatedenvironments. By separatinghousing areas from eachother by busier streets, andcommercial and industrialareas, they were stratifyingthe community. Finally, thetrend began to shift back tocreating neighborhood life asit used to be, a trend that isnow clearly visiblethroughout Valparaiso.“By creating communities

where there is moreinteraction betweencommunity members,”Coolman said, “you createstronger, healthier, morevibrant and more desirablecommunities. Now plannersfeel that zoning makesalmost no sense at all, butthey are trying to shake offalmost a century of learnedbehavior.”From Coolman’s

perspective, the cornerstone of Valparaiso’sneighborhood growth is that historic district neardowntown. “What has really fascinated me in the last 10or 15 years is when I ask people why they decided to moveto Valpo, the first thing they usually say is the schools.After that, they say one of two things. Either ‘the parks’ orthat historic Valpo neighborhood we talked about earlier.

That just feels like a community. It feels like a place wewant to live. It’s perceived as a very positive thing thatValpo has been able to sustain that historic area as aviable neighborhood for so long. Even if people decide notto live in town, they appreciate that neighborhood ‘feel’that Valpo has worked so hard to preserve.”

HistoricValparaisoPreserving Valparaiso’s first neighborhood is one of DougPierce’s missions in life. He just recently retired fromDesign Organization, a local architectural firm hefounded in 1971. “A neighborhood puts you in touchwith the diversity of life. You can live on the same streetwith a lawyer and a grocery store manager and teachersand students and retired people and people with youngchildren. The deck became important and now the porchis back. We are starting to shift from the back yard to thefront yard. Maybe we really are social animals and peopleare not here just to push buttons on computers.”

While local developers are building toward that trend,Doug Pierce is approaching it in a slightly different way.“Lifestyle planners are trying to emulate thosetraditional front porch neighborhoods: tree-coveredstreets with alleys and porches. We’re trying to make theValpo public aware that we already have that sort of thingright here.” Doug is helping to create that awareness ofValparaiso’s great neighborhoods, and in particular thathistoric neighborhood Bob Coolman talked about,through his work with the Central NeighborhoodAssociation and the Valparaiso ReclamationFoundation. The Foundation buys at-risk homes, oftenwith absentee landlords, to rebuild and refurbish.

“We have already bought 3 different homes, two ofthem on Franklin street, and resurrected them frommultiple-family dwellings to single family homes,” Dougsaid. “We are trying to make people understand that wehave these great buildings, with great style andcraftsmanship that we simply will not see again, righthere in our midst.” He gets rankled at the very mentionof the word ‘gentrification,’ the improving of propertyvalues at the expense of low-income families and smallerbusinesses. “That’s not what this is about at all. We aresimply trying to make it clear that young people have theopportunity to get into these homes. We are trying tobecome more inclusive, get more people in, and at thesame time preserve some of the beauty that isValparaiso.”

It does take a special kind of person, and a special kindof commitment, to take on the responsibility of anhistoric, older home. “Everybody wants this kind ofhome, but not everybody wants to do the work involvedwith having one,” Doug said. But, in his experience,more and more people are willing to take on that kind ofchallenge. “When I moved to Washington Street 15 yearsago, there were no kids living there. Now, there are lotsand lots of kids and pregnant moms. So it seems that we

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Above:Two of manypicturesque homes situatedin the heart of HistoricValparaiso.

have a steady supply of optimists, ready to invest theirtime, money and energy to make great neighborhoods.”Pierce insists that optimism is essential. “You have to bean optimist to remodel a home, because once you do it,you’ll never do it again. Your doctor won’t let you, yourpsychologist won’t let you, and your spouse probablywon’t let you.”

The Hilltop NeighborhoodClearly, refurbishing a historic home is not for everyone.But the desire to create “great neighborhoods” prevailsthroughout this community. One of the Valparaisoneighborhoods that has worked the hardest to reinventand redefine itself is the Hilltop neighborhood near theUniversity campus. An organization called ProjectNeighbors has been instrumental in creating Hilltop’sinfectious neighborhood spirit.

Project Neighbors is an organization founded by Waltand Lois Reiner whose mission is to help familiesrelocate to more desirable neighborhoods. There, theyare linked with other families in their new neighborhoodin order to establish a sense of community in which all ofits citizens understand and respect diversity. Over 300volunteers are involved with Project Neighbors.

William “Scooter” Holloway is the ExecutiveDirector for Project Neighbors and its only paidemployee. He is in the process of taking over for WaltReiner who is retiring from the organization he started.“We’re just trying to be good neighbors and help all thosewe can help,” Scooter said. “We’re trying to make theHilltop neighborhood as family-oriented as possible.”

The neighbors created an after school program at theReiner Community Center that serves 20-25 students aday while their parents are still at work. “This reallystarted with the Sigma Epsilon fraternity at theuniversity,” Scooter explained. “They were working onan after school program and we were able to partner withthem. When it started out, they brought in an air hockeytable and fed the kids snacks. Now it has evolved into atutoring program for the younger students and we’rereally happy about that. The Sig Eps have been greatpartners.”

Hilltop is also partnering with the First UnitedMethodist Church and the Boys and Girls Clubs in a daycamp program this summer. Hilltop’s Project Neighborsholds an annual neighborhood block party to raise fundsfor their day care program. They also organized the firstneighborhood crime watch in Valparaiso.

Scooter is proud to be a part of “…the most diverseneighborhood in Valparaiso. We have doctors andlawyers and people on disability and everybody inbetween. It is a very self-helping place. People appreciatethe help they get, and they want to help others.” Whatmatters most to Holloway is the impact theneighborhood is having on the next generation ofchildren, including his own. “It takes a dramatic event to

make an adult want to change. But children are not thatway. By showing them the advantages of living in adiverse community and helping your neighbors, we arecreating greater awareness for the next generation.”

Everything Old is New AgainLocal developers are looking toward the more classicmodels to build the neighborhoods of the future. For BobCoolman, the vision for the Village of Aberdeen was borna few years ago when he visited 56 New England villagesover a 3-day period. “These were indigenousdevelopments that were built before our more moderngrid structures were developed,” he explained. “Most ofNew England was developed before these artificialconstraints. You can see the ways in which the builtenvironment contributes to the growing of a socialenvironment. These villages were built to help build andpromote relationships, and that’s always good for acommunity. The best villages were built around villagegreens, natural meeting spaces. We are trying to factorthat into the kinds of neighborhoods we are creating,

ones that attract new residents and sustain and growproperty values. Our culture continues to tellpeople that they should desire to supersizeeverything. We’re trying to help peopleunderstand that creating community may bemore important than creating size.”

Five years ago, Coolman Communitiesbegan building the Village of Aberdeen. TheVillage includes an 18-hole golf course, tree-lined neighborhoods with sidewalks andalleyways, a park, swimming pool and baseballdiamond, and a retail/commercial center featuringThe Aberdeen Brewing Company, a friendly

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Below: Marking theentrance to theVillage ofAberdeen’s “business”district is this MacLennan &Bain Insurance buildinginspired by old New Englandstyle town halls.

The “bridge” at theVillageof Aberdeen.

neighborhood pub. Barb Young is President of Benchmark Ltd., the

developers of the property. She talked about their visionfor the new community. “We wanted to create a self-contained, pedestrian-friendly community that providesfor a variety of lifestyles, for people at different stages intheir lives. So we have everything from family homes tomaintenance-free products customized for empty-nesters.”

Along the way, a pleasant and curious trend alsodeveloped. “We began to see multiple generations offamilies living in the same community. While we did planto offer the largest variety of lifestyle options to serve themarket, we never dreamed that families would takeadvantage of it in this way.”

Who are the people moving into Aberdeen? “Fiftypercent of the people are from Porter County,” Barbexplained, “twenty five to thirty percent of them are fromLake County, ten percent are from Illinois andmiscellaneous balance from the rest of the county andother parts of the country. Those are pretty much thesame statistical trends for the whole community.”

What is driving the development’s success? “Researchshowed us that people were looking for an old-fashionedneighborhood,” Barb said, “where people could sit out ontheir porch on warm summer evenings and visit with theirfriends.” If you build it, as the saying goes, they will come.

What is happening in the downtown historic district,in Hilltop, and in Aberdeen, is also happening inneighborhoods and developments all over Valparaiso:

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There are sevenneighborhoods at Aberdeennestled amongst the treesand adjacent to a world-class golf course.

“The atmosphere at Valpo has always been that success isn’t just measured inmaterial terms, but that it has a lot to do with the spirit and one’s humanity.”

Jacki Lyden VU’75 Author; senior correspondent National Public Radio

Northwest Indiana’s nationally-recognized Valparaiso University4A top-tier master’s level university in the Midwest*4Over 70 areas of liberal arts and sciences and professional studies4Chapters of all academic honor societies, including Phi Beta Kappa4NCAA Division 1 athletics; Brauer Museum of Art45-year overall job/graduate program placement = 93.3%

*U.S. News & World Report 2003-2004

This is Real. This isyourVALPO.

Colleges of Arts & Sciences | Business AdministrationEngineering | Nursing | Christ College - The Honors CollegeMBA and Graduate Programs | School of Lawwww.valpo.edu

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people are rediscovering the value of being and havinggood neighbors. “We are trying to learn from the past,” BobCoolman explained. “As we create neighborhoods that aredivorced from the rest of the communities, we create anartificial environment. That’s not as healthy forcommunity life, and not as healthy for neighborhoodengagement. People who have a vested interest in totalcommunity are more likely to support the communityand help the community grow.”Three years ago, Bob Coolman moved to downtownValparaiso. He bought an existing home that was fallingapart, tore it down and rebuilt on the same lot. “I tried torebuild the home so that today, when you walk throughthe neighborhood, you hopefully can’t pick out the newconstruction from the homes that have been there awhile. Hopefully, we did a good job of integrating into theneighborhood.”

Bob’s move downtown was dictated by convenience. Inaddition to being a real estate developer, he’s also anassistant pastor at First United Methodist Church. Hisnew home is closer to the church and the office. “Traffic isnever a problem in downtown Valparaiso. I can walk, ridemy bike or drive to get lots of different places.”

But even more important, he enjoys being a part of thisneighborhood. “We have neighbors who are newlyweds,and neighbors with teenagers, and elderly neighbors, andwe know them all. We feel more part of the community.

We really meet our neighbors here, and we enjoy that. It’sa more holistic neighborhood, a more real neighborhood.We’re staying engaged in the community.”

Doug Pierce chose his neighborhood for much thesame reason. “We live in a neighborhood where people tryto socialize and try to get to know one another. Thiscreates accountability, safety, networking and the truesense of a village.”

But Doug also wants people to understand that thepreservation of neighborhood values also has a practicalside. “Just as business and industry are interested inprofitability, so are homeowners and we should helpensure their profitability, the profitability of their long-term investment, because it is good for the economy andthe community to do so. Residential landowners are alarge profit center. We need to be interested in supportingtheir investment and keeping their investment secure forthe future.”

Like so many Valparaiso homeowners, Doug Pierceunderstands that when the values of the past meet theneeds of the present, they work in tandem to create aunique environment and a more promising future. “Ithink people realize that we have this great nugget here. Wehave to preserve it.”

To find out more information about Historic Valpar-aiso be sure to visit this website:www.ci.valparaiso.in.us/HPC/Tours/tours.htm

Small venue entertainment is huge in this community. FromBroadway shows and edgy, contemporary theater to musiciansand bands that appeal to a wide variety of tastes, the Valparaisosmall venue scene is rich and vibrant. Residents relish theopportunity to enjoy an evening of first-class entertainment inan intimate setting and stay so close to home. The

professionalism of the performers, the quality of the surroundings and theeclectic variety keep Valparaiso’s nightlife enticing and exciting.

The Memorial Opera HouseAccording to Curt Gillins, Cultural Projects Coordinator for the OperaHouse, the purpose of this long-standing community landmark is “toprovide a wide variety of theater experiences that (theater-goers) might notget elsewhere.” The Opera House’s focus is primarily on musical theaterspecifically, “on the classics,” Curt said, “as well as some of the moremodern shows. We try to vary the kinds of shows we do. We might do adance show and follow it up with a heavy costume show.”

The Memorial Theater Company taps the rich resources of talent in thecommunity to stage all its productions. All of the performers arevolunteers who audition for each show. Their efforts, last year alone, haveearned them six awards from the Northwest Indiana Excellence inTheater Foundation. Currently, they are presenting “Damn Yankees,”which runs through July 25. They will be staging “Little Shop of Horrors”in September, “Gypsy” in November, and “Nuncrackers,” a Christmasmusical, in December. In addition to musicals, the Opera House stages avariety of other theatrical productions, non-musical shows and concertsthroughout the year. But that only begins to explain the Opera House’splace as a cornerstone of the Valparaiso community.

Built in 1893 by the local chapter of the Grand Army of the Republic, (theG.A.R.), this 364-seat theater is a living memorial to the county's Civil WarVeterans. A plaque over the entrance honors "The Soldiers and Sailors of1861-5." Some of the more famous performers who have graced its stagethrough the years include John Philip Sousa and the Marx Brothers.

The most recent renovation of this historic building began in 1993 andwas completed in the spring of 1998. The architects made the renovationas historically accurate as possible by adding design elements that werecommon during the 1890's. The Opera House is on the National Registryof Historic Places and tours are available.

For those interested in being a participant or patron of the arts, contactthe Memorial Opera House at 548-9137 or visit them atwww.memorialoperahouse.com.

Front Porch MusicFront Porch Music began as a small music store, and blossomed into awarm, intimate performance space that fans, students and performersalike enjoy. Paul and Jane Schreiner are the Front Porch co-owners.Business began with a small selection of guitars, other stringedinstruments, accessories and lessons. Jane, who serves the day-to-dayfunction of Assistant Store Manager, explained the evolution of the space.

“When we moved in, the building had several tenants including a familywho lived in the basement. When they moved out we realized we could turnthat space into a live music venue. We had no idea how it would sound, orhow many people we could seat.” The sound, musicians and concertgoerswill tell you, borders on perfection. The 72-seat performance space createsthe kind of intimate atmosphere that performers covet. “Nobody makesthe kind of money here that they might make elsewhere,” Jane said. “Butthey don’t get many opportunities to play in places of this size and intimacy,and they love that!” Today, the store offers a wide variety of stringedinstruments, accessories and lessons from a staff of 32 instructors.

Their original intention for the theater was to “offer a nice place wherefolk music could be presented.” In addition to an ongoing selection ofregional and nationally known “road warrior folkies” as Jane calls them,Front Porch has hosted concerts by Tom Rush, the late John Hartford, andDonovan, who liked the venue so much and had such a response fortickets, he did three shows. They typically present one concert eachweekend. “We offer lots of different kinds of shows,” Jane said. “Folk ofcourse, blues, even rock and roll occasionally. Celtic and bluegrass musicare our bestsellers.”

But the Front Porch strategy for an intimate venue for liveentertainment runs deeper than that. “We are a teaching institution,”Jane explained. “That’s what we are known for the most, and we believewe have some of the best teachers in Northwest Indiana. The theater givesour students a place to play, as well as to see professional performers upclose.” They sponsor two open mic nights per week. “This gives studentswho want to perform the incentive and desire to sharpen their skills.”

For a performance schedule, instruments, CDs and tapes orinstructions, call them at 464-4700 or visit their website:www.frontporchmusic.com.

Chicago Street TheaterWhile the Chicago Street Theater has been a fixture in the Valparaisocommunity since 1955, Melinda Lunghofer is its “first and only paidemployee.” But she will be the first to tell you that what keeps the theatergoing is an “ever-evolving group of highly committed people. We still have

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When the Houselights Fade…Spotlight on small venue entertainment

WilliamWeathersby jams with Front Porch instructor and director of “Garage Band 101,” Drake Blinco. Photo courtesy of Memorial Opera House.

folks today who were involved with the theater 40 years ago, as well aspeople who auditioned for us last year and now are doing committee work.They all work incredibly hard and most of them have full-time day jobs.”

Why is there such a passion for live theater in Valparaiso? FromMelinda’s perspective, “Valpo is classic Middle America and we are solucky to have the quality of life and community values we have. Theatergives us the opportunity to live on the edge, which we don’t do very often.That’s why we don’t always do the ‘normal’ (at Chicago Street Theater).We like to do new playwrights, to challenge ourselves artistically so thatpeople come away from a production saying ‘I didn’t know we could dothat here!’”

In a collaborative effort with Front Porch Music, the Theater also stages“One-Nite Jams” four or five times a year. Front Porch helps to promotethese acoustic concerts featuring people such as Jim Peterik, MichaelMcDermott and Lowen and Navarro. The Theater returns the favor bypublicizing shows at the Front Porch.

Currently celebrating its “50th season of producing first-class livetheater for the people of Valparaiso and the Northwest Indiana region,” theChicago Street Theater, and its Community Theater Guild (CTG), stagedits first production at the Memorial Opera House in August of 1955. TheGuild began leasing the Opera House Theater in 1957 and continueduntil renovations were well underway in 1996. They purchased,renovated and moved into their new 140-seat theater, formerly anAssemblies of God church, in 1997.

To celebrate its fiftieth anniversary, the theater is staging revivals ofsome of its more popular productions. The season will culminate in Julyof 2005 with the staging of a new work by a local playwright. In that way,as Melinda sees it, “we are setting the pace for the next fifty years.”

For information about upcoming productions, or how to get involvedwith the Community Theater Guild, call Chicago Street Theater at 464-1636, or visit their website: www.ctgonline.org.

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Eleven local businesses received 2004 CommunityImprovement Awards July 13. These projects joined morethan 200 that have been recognized for their commitmentand investment in the local community since the awardsprogram began 37 years ago. As hosts, the City of

Valparaiso, the Porter County Builders Association and The GreaterValparaiso Chamber of Commerce provide the community theopportunity to congratulate and honor the people and projects thathave improved our city. The sponsors for the annual luncheonincluded: Bank One, Centier Bank, First National Bank, HorizonBank and Mercantile National Bank of Indiana.

This year ’s winners are: Choices Counseling Services/GreenwichTerrace Café, 607 Lincolnway; First National Bank, 2356 MorthlandDr.; Hilltop House Medical Center, 454 College Ave.; J and NEnterprises,Inc., 851 Transport Dr.; Morthland Animal Clinic, 2360Morthland Dr.; Natural Ovens Bakery, Inc., 3400 Mariposa; OldTown Banquet Center, 711 Calumet Ave.; Salon Amara, 407 E.Lincolnway; Valparaiso Family Health Center, 808 Lincolnway; andVision Point/Palladium Home, 2106 Calumet Ave.

Community Improvement Awards are based on the visual impact ofexterior appearance only and are judged on the following criteria:

• Enhances attractiveness of Valparaiso• Compatible with area and environment• Shows creativity/innovation in both design and use of materials• Enhances the quality of life and promotes pride in Valparaiso• Makes a commitment to Valparaiso’s future

The Valparaiso Historic Preservation Commission presented itssecond Heritage Award for Historic Preservation at this annualluncheon. This award is given to the owner(s) of a building whoseconstruction or renovation efforts result in significantly enhancingand reinforcing the historic character of the City of Valparaiso. The2004 Heritage Award for Historic Preservation was presented toChoices Counseling Services/Greenwich Terrace Café.

In addition, the Special Committee Award goes to projects thatdemonstrate outstanding achievement on their own merits but do notfit the general CIA parameters of eligibility. This year ’s award wasgiven to the Service Memorial at the Veterans & Volunteers Plaza.

2004 Community Improvement Awards

Pride and Growth in Valparaiso

Choices Counseling Services/Greenwich Terrace Café607 Lincolnway

Architect: Mark DrangerDesigner: Mark DrangerContractor: Mark Dranger, Tri-County Roofing – Ken ZerbyBuilder: VariousLandscape Designer: Landscape Concepts, Inc. & The Perfect Edge

First National Bank2356 Morthland Dr.

Architect: Stephen W. PeaseContractor: Northwind ConstructionLandscape Designer: Schulte Landscaping

Hilltop House Medical Center454 College Ave.

Architect: Stephen W. PeaseContractor: Design ConstructionBuilder: Hilltop House Medical Center VolunteersLandscape Designer: Hilltop House Medical Center Volunteers

HomeMountain todrop ingraphichere.

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J and N Enterprises,Inc.851 Transport Dr.

Architect: Chester Construction (Scott Virtue)Contractor: Chester ConstructionBuilder: Chester ConstructionLandscape Designer: Employees of J and N Enterprises

Salon Amara407 E. Lincolnway

Architect: Scott TravisContractor: Rosenow Restoration and DevelopmentBuilder: John RosenowLandscape Designer: N/A

Valparaiso Family Health Center808 Lincolnway

Architect: Robert Gerometta, Gerometta & Kinel Architects, Inc.Designer: Bob GeromettaContractor: L. I. Combs & Sons, Inc.Builder: L. I. Combs & Sons, Inc.Landscape Designer: Bob Gerometta, Dr. Attasi and Hubinger Landscaping

Vision Point/Palladium Home2106 Calumet Ave.

Architect: Scott FalkDesigner: Paulette Krstevski, Palladium HomeContractor: P & A, LLCBuilder: Valenti Construction, Inc.Landscape Designer: South County Landscaping

Special Committee AwardService Memorial at the Veterans & Volunteers Plaza3210 N. Campbell

Architect: Jeff Lewis and Doug Pierce of Design Org.Designer: Design OrganizationContractor: Larson-DanielsonBuilder: Valparaiso Parks FoundationLandscape Designer: Larson-Danielson

Morthland Animal Clinic2360 Morthland Dr.

Architect: Stephen W. PeaseDesigner: Stephen W. PeaseContractor: Chester ConstructionBuilder: Chester ConstructionLandscape Designer: Schulte Landscaping

Natural Ovens Bakery,Inc.3400 Mariposa

Architect: Dome Technologies, McMahon Assoc.Contractor: Larson-Danielson, Circle RElectrical/MechanicalBuilder: Larson Danielson, Dome TechnologiesLandscape Designer: Barbara Stitt, Natural Ovens

Old Town Banquet Center711 Calumet Ave.

Architect: O’RourkeDesigner: Tim O’Rourke, Wendy PiuntiContractor: Joe ElderBuilder: Joe ElderLandscape Designer: YARD Birds

One of the sweetest things about life in Valparaiso isour diverse and eclectic restaurant scene. Fromquiet candlelight to family fun and boisteroussports bars, Valparaiso offers dining experiences tosuit every style, occasion and palate.

But this cornucopia of tempting tastes does create a problem.How do you talk about Valparaiso’s restaurants and not talk about

150 ways to enjoy turkey? Strongbow’s has been the town’s turkeyexpert for decades, not to mention its cornerstone for fine dining.

How do we talk about Valparaiso’s restaurants and not talk aboutthe only Spanish restaurant in the state of Indiana, Don Quijote?

How do we talk about Valparaiso’s restaurants and not mentionthat long-time downtown fixture for great Italian food, Tony’s Place?

How do we, in fact, talk about Valparaiso’s restaurant scene and notmention all the 50-plus restaurants in town?

Our solution: pick four restaurants that reflect the dynamic diningvariety available in our community. Hopefully, when you get finishedlooking at this menu of choices, your taste buds will be tempted to try allthe rest!

Big Wheel Restaurant902 E. Lincolnway

Rex Schroeder knows exactly why his family’s restaurant has been at thesame location since 1963. “My uncle tore down my grandparents’ house to build the restaurant.” What prompted the construction is less

clear. “My uncle was 60 years old when he built the place. At that time,this was a chain. He tried running it, had a couple of other managers, butnothing worked. My dad was working for Sears at the time. My uncleasked him to manage the place and dad said ‘yes.’”

Rex grew up in the restaurant that has been a Valparaiso mainstayfor more than forty years. Today, he’s a co-owner of the business with hisparents, Richard and Jo Ann Schroeder. They serve three meals a dayfrom a huge menu with daily specials often suggested by employees andregular customers. Rex does a lot of the cooking, but he also likes to “getout of the kitchen and meet the customers.”

Rex is sure that the warm and friendly, hometown atmosphere isone of the keys to Big Wheel’s long-term success. “Some of mywaitresses have been with me for 20 years,” he said. “We make it a pointto get to know our customers. People come in knowing they’re going toget good food, at good prices, and a friendly atmosphere. A lot of mycustomers are the older crowd who have been coming in here forever. It’snice to come in, get a good meal, meet your friends and see happy peopleand friendly waitresses.”

Rex and his wife are raising three boys “and they’re all interested inthe restaurant business.” It looks like the Big Wheel will keep on turningfor a long time.

Billy Jack’s Café & Grill2904 N. Calumet

Eleven years ago, Jack Richey decided to open a restaurant with aSouthwestern flavor. “I like cooking with chiles and peppers, bold

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Valpo’s Restaurants Have Something for EveryoneGet a Taste of the Good Life

by Harry J.Karabel

Kym and Todd Etzler enjoydessert at Maria Elena’s,whileowner,Felix Cardenas looks on.Waitress, Erin Pendowskiserves the next course.

flavors,” he said, “and nobody else was doing Southwestern at that time.But I also wanted to have some variety on the menu.”

Variety has been the secret to Billy Jack’s success. The décor andmany of the menu items are Southwestern. But you will also find a fineselection of Italian dishes and classic American cuisine. “We serve avariety of different things that you don’t see everyday,” Jack said, “withlots of affordable specials, so that it’s not so expensive.”

The restaurant features all-you-can-eat pasta on Tuesdays, and all-you-can-eat fajitas on Wednesdays. There are usually three seafoodspecials on Friday’s menu and all-you-can-eat crab legs on Saturday.Billy Jack’s also has lunch specials and a truly incredible Sunday brunch.

But Jack is working even harder to get people out of the house andinto his restaurant. He has a live band on the weekend, open mic nighton Thursday, Karaoke on Wednesday night and a magician performingclose-up magic on Sunday evenings. “The economy of the region ischanging,” Jack said. “You have to make it easier for people to go out toeat more often.”

Dish Restaurant3907 N. Calumet

Erick Staresina’s motivation was simple. “I thought Valparaiso neededgood, casual, fine dining.” The Valparaiso High School graduate studiedat the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, beforereturning home to open Dish. Even though the dining room featurescrisp, white linen, most patrons dine in casual clothes. It is exactly thatdichotomy—where elegance meets comfort—which Erick strives for inthe restaurant’s atmosphere and its menu.

For many, dinner at Dish begins with a selection from one of themost exotic martini bars in town. Some of the more popular appetizersinclude homemade Gorgonzola potato chips and a cheese tart. Themenu features a variety of “well-balanced, American regional food,”including duck, lamb, fresh fish and delicious daily specials. There isalso a daily “comfort food” selection like pot roast, fried chicken or lakeperch.

Erick’s personal tastes drive his menu choices. “I like trying newthings and I like to cook what I like to eat. I look at it this way: if myfather and mother come here to eat, my father may not be asadventurous as my mother. He may want pot roast. She may want thecatch of the day, or broiled lamb chops.”

Dish also features a great wine list and decadent desserts. For finedining with a warm and casual atmosphere, for an adventurous meal orsome home-cooked comfort, Erick invites you to give Dish a try.

Maria Elena’s Restaurant454 S. Greenwich Street

Felix Cardenas worked in the restaurant business for 15 years before hedecided to go out on his own. Thanks to some help, support anddirection from Hilltop’s Project Neighbors (see the cover story thisissue), Felix found an ideal location and opened Maria Elena’s onDecember 3, 1999.

“My friend Walt Reiner told me he would help me if I tried to dosomething right here. I took the chance, and it’s working!” Felix said. “Iwanted to run a restaurant where you could get just about anything youwant. I try to cook different things that you won’t find everywhere else.We serve Greek, Mexican, American and Italian food. And I like to bevery picky with my ingredients.” With the exception of daily specials,the menu hasn’t changed since the day he opened. They are open forlunch and dinner and serve a magnificent lunch buffet on Sundays.

Felix insists that hospitality is high on the list of priorities at MariaElena’s. “ I like to be friendly. People come in and I like to make them feelat home, treat them like family. Each time they come, we want to givethem the same quality food, the same quality service, a great experienceevery time.”

Felix is very proud to be a part of the Hilltop neighborhood andlooks for every opportunity to give back to the community that helpedhim get his start. “When the people in the neighborhood are involved ina building project or other community activity, I try to provide food forthe people doing the work. It felt so good when they helped me. When Iget the chance, I want to help them as well.” By sharing his gifts, Felixhelps the spirit of his neighborhood continue to grow.

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The Greater Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce welcomes new members who joined during March-May 2004.(All addresses are in the 46383 zip code and phone numbers are 219 area code unless otherwise indicated.)

Adams Remco,Inc.1220 Arrowhead Ct.Crown Point, 46307662-5866Don CarlileOffice Equipment & Furniture

Air One Aerial Photography64 Lincolnway462-1182Brad CavanaughPhotographic Studio/Supplies

Alice's Halfway Housefor Women606 Brown St.462-7600Carrie WolfeOrganizations

Auburn Supply Co.of Indiana,Inc.1150 Southpoint Dr., Ste. A531-7744Dale LemaichPlumbing

Border Magic of NW Indiana6 Stonegate Dr.46385395-9666Ray RitchieLandscaping

BRQ Quickprint,Inc.13 E. Lincolnway464-1070Bonnie HontzPrinting

Beyond Beauty,Inc.402 Wall St., Ste. 63465-4525Rita PriestSalon

Century 21 Executive Group2612 N. Calumet Ave.548-7804Ric J. FratacciaReal Estate - Commercial& Residential

Century 21 Executive Group2612 N. Calumet Ave.548-7814Janice JoyceReal Estate - Commercial & Residential

Century 21 Executive Group2612 N. Calumet Ave.548-7860Heather McGillReal Estate - Commercial& Residential

Century 21 Executive Group2612 N. Calumet Ave.462-5904Bob NealReal Estate - Commercial& Residential

Chandana Surgery Center1700 Pointe Dr.476-0404Maureen BeekmanPhysicians & Surgeons

DJ by Request,Inc.9502 S 1150 WWanatah, 46390733-2749Tammy J. VanDamSpecial Events Planning/Products/Services

Endecca Painting Co.,Inc.710 Colonial Dr.Hobart, 46342942-4014George PloutisPaint Products/Services

F.& P.Events!2291 Trail Run St.Portage, 46368763-9984Jonna PaglicciCaterer

H.D.W.Commercial Interiors350 E. US Rt. 30Schererville, 46375864-4690Rita BacevichOffice Equipment and Furniture

Heartland Payment Systems2200 Yorktowne Dr.508-3197Sheila WilesCredit Card Services

The Human Race Sports,Inc.58 W. Lincolnway465-5335Bill UffmannSporting Goods

InterContinental Industries8585 BroadwayMerrillville, 46410738-9930Mike PelzAdvertising & Marketing

Irwin Mortgage Corporation2803 Boilermaker Ct., Ste 2E531-9675Gene HamstraMortgage Brokers

Kids Alive International2507 Cumberland Dr.464-9035Dawn DutyOrganizations

Kramer & LeonardOffice Products312 Roberts Rd.Chesterton, 46304926-1171Greg FoxOffice Equipment & Furniture

Lupus Fdn of AmericaNWI ChapterPO Box 2763Portage, 46368762-6575Phyllis SimkoOrganizations

Masters of Harmony Chorus5172 Bell Ave.Portage, 46368763-4005Jim BoatrightMusic

McColly Real Estate2107 N. Calumet462-2411Pat HaasReal Estate

McGill Federal Credit Union911 N. Lafayette St.465-2496Jo Ann StokumCredit Unions

Mental Health Assn of PorterCounty402 E. Indiana Ave.462-6267Mary M. HodsonHealth MaintenanceOrganizations

Nationwide InsuranceBobinski Insurance Agency,Inc.4403 N. Calumet Ave.548-2550Steven BobinskiInsurance

Northern IN OccupationalMedicine Services813 LaPorte Ave.465-4950Jim VanVlietHealthcare/Home Health Svcs.

Paradise Golf Supply1500 N. Main St.Crown Point, 46307663-0626Martin D. FraleyRetail

Prairie Lites SoybeanCandle & Bath Co.2701 Beech St., Ste E405-2823Kelly CasonGifts

RSB Enterprises2601 Linda Rd.548-8796William LuethkeVacuum Cleaners/Svc./Supplies

Silhavy Square Retail Center2312 Hazel CtNaperville, IL 60565630-961-8256Jana LarkinReal Estate/Commercial

Victory Christian Academy3805 LaPorte Ave548-8803Tamara CanzoneriSchools/Education

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community of neighborhoods that cares and expects the best is often rewardedfor the time and the interest that it has afforded its youngest members. Now wehave another wonderful group of graduates that our community can be proudof; and another group of graduates that our community has helped to care for,guide and expect the best from.

Please stay involved in the life of our community. Your involvementmakes a positive difference not only in the effectiveness of the GreaterValparaiso Chamber of Commerce but in the the lives of your neighbors as well.Thanks for your involvement and have a great summer.

E.Ric FratacciaSuperintendent, Union Township School CorporationChair, Valpo Chamber Board of Directors

continued from page 4

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“Why did you choose to live in your

Valparaiso Neighborhood?”

For this issue we asked....

ONWord the street

Jayne & Terry Larson – Forest ParkThe homes in our area each have a unique personality – theyare diverse in architecture. Large oak trees and lush greenerybrings character of a lovely wooded forest – it’s magical as theseasons change. The sense of a real hometown feel is whatmakes Forest Park unique.

Julie & Allan Brandy – Lakeside MeadowsIt’s a good location in relation to work, schools and shopping.It has large lots with close proximity to ponds and wildlife. And the other homes in the subdivision are well kept.

Kathy Wehling & Curt Cichowski - AberdeenWe were, for the first time, playing a round of golf at the Courseat Aberdeen. We noticed a few “for sale” signs along the courseand since the rain cut the golf short, we decided to see if wecould take a peek at some of the houses just to see what theywere like. We were not in the market for a new house. Thesecond house we visited – (we) took one look and froze – it wasperfect. On impulse, we made an offer. That was a great day.We encountered genuinely friendly people from the club houseto the welcome center to the craftspeople working on “our”house.

Nadine & Dave Brown – WoodmereThe natural surroundings - the trees, lake, pond and walkwaygave us the atmosphere we wanted.

Barb Douglas - Downtown HistoricMy husband and I have always enjoyed living close todowntown. So the decision to purchase and renovate a postCivil War era home on Washington Street was an easy one.What we love about our neighborhood is the fact that eachhome is as diverse and individual as those who live there.

Kim Beiser – WaldenAs a realtor, I see a lot of beautiful homes that are tempting.But I’ve never found one that I liked well enough to leaveWalden. I love my neighborhood. It has mature trees. And thelots are large enough that you have your own space – yet there’sa neighborly feel.

Art & Fran Giacomin – StreamwoodWe chose to move to Valpo 10 years ago because it is a small,quaint community with no traffic gridlock.

Jack & Dee Dee Brogan – Chandana PointeWhen we started looking at homes in Valparaiso, we knew verylittle about the area. Our two main criteria were a home thatdid not need any work and a neighborhood with children. Ithas children of all ages, and the neighbors are so very social andoutgoing. It has the flavor of the ‘good old days’ where kids canjust go out and play, and everyone looks out for each other.

Trish & Jim Sarkisian – Manchester MeadowsWe wanted to be near the high school. We wanted to build.And we liked the wooded area in Manchester.

Wendy & Henry Pong – ShorewoodWe bought a house near Lake Louise 18 years ago. The schoolsystem, especially Valparaiso High School has an excellentreputation. This area has many cultural activities from thelocal theatre to the reputation of the VHS bands and orchestrasto the art exhibit, plays and musical concerts at ValparaisoUniversity.

Jane Lump – Country Club EstatesWhen I came to look at a lot, I was struck by the grandeur of thetrees. And later a forester told me that some of the trees on mylot were climax forest trees, having been here as saplings whenthis area was once part of the open prairie created by themelting of glaciers. I eventually bought the lot next door toprotect more trees and love the feeling that I get in the summerwhen my back yard is surrounded by a dark green leafy wall ofprivacy. It’s my very own ‘secret garden.’

Barb & Don Johnson – Quail RidgeWe met at Valparaiso University. And lived and raised ourfamily in Highland. As we approached retirement, we began tolook at homes throughout Northwest Indiana. We wantedthree basic things: to own our own property, to have everythingon one level, and to have lawn and snow removal maintainedby someone else. We found those things in Quail Ridge. Andwe have enjoyed being back in Valparaiso for the last 13 years.

Call 866-482-3687 for more information.

Career Certification Training and Testing

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Indiana Business Magazine!

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NeighborsServingNeighbors

If you’re looking for a beautiful, maintenance-free addition to yourlandscape, Border Magic TM is your answer. Our decorativeconcrete borders, pathways, and sidewalks enhance the exterior ofyour home. We define landscaped areas with endless combinationsof color, size, and patterns, with a natural look. We do commercialwork, too!

Border Magic of NWIndianaRay & Lisa Ritchie6 Stonegate Drive395-9996

LPT offers quality, affordable printer repair service with thequickest turn-a-round in NW Indiana -- within 24 hours. We sell,resell, and upgrade any size computer. Plus, LPT installs andadministers networks in small to large offices. And, check out ourquality remanufactured toner cartridge, developed with consistentprinting quality. We are your one-stop-shop for computer services.

Laser PrinterTechnology Inc.webJim Hunt1919 Willowcreek RoadPortage,46368762-8970www.laserlpt.com

On July 1, 1950, Erwin and Arlene Dygert opened MercuryCleaners for business. For the past 22 years, Norman and Linda(and now their son, Brett) have continued their tradition of qualityand service. We, at Mercury, would like to thank our customers,past and present, for years of patronage and friendship.

Mercury Drive-InCleaners centuryNorman and LindaDygert356 W.Lincolnway465-1502

Welcome to Meridian Woods, an adult (age 55+) neighborhood onCampbell St. You may choose between the charming “Duets”designed by Coolman Communities, Inc. (219-477-2505) or thedelightful “Courtyards” designed by Wagner Homes (219-465-1995). Pines Village manages the neighborhood and provides amaintenance package and courtesy services to enhance a carefreelifestyle. Coming soon: “The Gathering Place” clubhouse and“Campbell Street Café.”

Pines VillageRetirementCommunitiesMeridian WoodsLaurie Mullet,CEO3303 Pines VillageCircle465-1591

Our community is dedicated to providing independent and assistedliving apartments with services for adults age 60+. Our courtesyservices include dining, transportation, housekeeping,maintenance, social and educational opportunities, fitnessprograms and security to support our residents’ independentlifestyles. We Celebrate Life!

Pines VillageRetirementCommunities“Where every day isindependence day”Laurie Mullet,CEO3303 Pines VillageCircle465-1591www.pinesvillage.org

Coolman Communities introduces the Duet Homes at MeridianWoods, an active adult community . For years, the Coolman namehas been synonymous with innovative communities in PorterCounty. We’ll do everything in our power to make your newMeridian Woods home the home you want it to be, FOR THEBEST OF YOUR LIFE.

Coolman Communities,Inc.Meridian WoodsRobert Coolman359 S.Franklin St.,Ste A464-8055

Our center specializes in outpatient surgery by an experiencedhealthcare team, patient-focused and quality-based. Our team ofcaring professionals will guide you through your surgicalexperience with respect for your personal dignity and privacy in asafe and comfortable environment.

Chandana SurgeryCenter needMaureen Beekman1700 Pointe Drive548-7483www.chandana.com

paid advertisements

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September 1A.M.Valpo7:00 – 8:00 amChocolate Café – South BendChocolate Factory57 Franklin St.– Downtown (219) 462-1105

September 5Tractor PullPorter County Expo Center(219) 766-0028

September 9Valpo ChamberPercolator LuncheonNoon - 1:00 pmStrongbow InnSponsor:TBA(219) 462-1105

September 10Valpo Young Professionals After 55:00 pm – 8:00 pmBuddy & Pal’s3530 N.Calumet Ave.(219) 462-6063

September 10 - 12Kiwanis Balloon FestPorter County Expo CenterHours: Varied(219) 462-1209

September 11Valparaiso Popcorn FestivalDowntown Valparaiso7:00 am - 6:30 pm(219) 464-8332

September 11 - 12Hot Rod WeekendSunset Hill Farm County ParkHours: Varied(219) 462-5818

September 11 -12,17 – 19,25 -26“Little Shop of Horrors”Memorial Opera HouseFri – Sat: 8:00 pm,Sun: 2:00 pm(219) 548-9137

September 12Lakeshore Century Ride25, 62 & 100 mile routesRegistration: 6:30 -11 am or pre-register, Liberty School,Chesterton.(219) 662-6923

September 12Doll and Bear ShowPorter County Expo Center10:00 am - 4:00 pm(219) 462-7156

September 12Winamac Old Auto Club Car Show& Swap Meet8:00 am – 3:30 pmPorter County Expo Center(219) 865-8019

September 13Corporate Challenge Cup11:00 amThe Course at Aberdeen(219) 462-5050

September 17Concerts in Nature:Music Under the Stars7 pm – 9 pmTaltree Arboretum & Gardens450 W 100 N, Valparaiso(219) 462-0025

September 17 - 19Wizard of Oz FestivalDowntown ChestertonFri: hours variedSat: 9:00 am - 6:00 pmSun: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm(219) 926-5513

September 18 – 19Celebration of the ArtsSat: 10 am – 5 pmSun: 11 am – 5 pmSchoolhouse Shop grounds,Chesterton(219) 926-1551

September 23Valpo Chamber Business After Hours5:00 - 7:00 pmChicago Street Theatre154 W.Chicago St.(219) 464-1636

September 24 – 26Fall Harvest FestivalFri – Sat: 9 am – 6 pmSun: 9 am – 4 pmSunset Hill Farm County Park(219) 462-3965

October 1 - 3Maquis Gras CelebrationFri: 8 pm – 12 am,Sat: 10 am – 12 am,Sun: 10 am - 4 pmHampton Inn & Suites1451 Silhavy, Valparaiso(219) 464-7109

October 2 - 3Vale Fine Arts FestivalRogers-Lakewood Park10:00 am - 5:00 pm(219) 464-8332

October 3Porter Memorial Health FairePorter County Expo Center(219) 531-7128

Calendar of Events continued from page 4