The Valpo Chamber was selected as the 2013 Chamber of Commerce of the Year by an independent panel of judges outside the state. The award is based on the U.S. Chambers accreditation process for local chambers and highlights accomplishments in the areas of leadership, governance, finance, advocacy, and membership development.

Several factors lead to receiving the honor. Programs specifically mentioned were the Valpo Chamber Community Improvement Awards, recognizing local businesses for their commitment and investment in Valparaiso by improving their visual presence in the community and the Business Appreciation Luncheon, designed to thank top employers for their impact to improve and sustain a strong economic climate and employee base. The Chamber was also cited for its strong financial performance recognizing its success in new member development and consistent, high member reinvestment rates and its strong advocacy demonstrated on local, state, and national issues.

This great honor is a testament to the staff and board leadership of the Valpo Chamber who, over time, have set the bar high for performance and effectiveness on behalf of the members, states Chamber President, Rex Richards. Everything that we do is for the benefit of our member investors. If our members are successful, then we are successful. Its all about service.

The Valpo Chamber is the only Northwest Indiana Chamber to have ever received Chamber of Commerce of the Year. The Chamber also won the same award in 2005.

The staff has performed at such a high level and has delivered the most effective programs possible for the membership, says Board Chair, Jonathan Nalli, CEO, Porter Health Care System. Our Chamber has succeeded in taking service to our members to a very high level and this statewide recognition brings great honor not only to the Valpo Chamber, but to our community, county, and region.

In addition to Chamber of the Year, the ICEA also awarded its Communications Excellence Awards. The Chamber received top honors of "Excellence" for the quarterly Valparaiso Magazine, annual Membership Directory and Community Resource Guide, annual U-Guide University Student Resource Guide, and the recently updated Chamber website www.valparaisochamber.org; while receiving "Honorable Mention" in the category of Annual Reports.

The magnitude of awards won by the Valpo Chamber was truly gratifying, adds Immediate Past Chair Jon Schmaltz, of Burke Costanza & Carberry. To achieve this level of excellence, judged by an independent panel from outside the state, makes the Valpo Chamber the standard of excellence upon which all other chambers look to.

"The hard work and dedication of the professionals at the Chamber is apparent through the works submitted for review by the judging panel," says Shelli Williams, ICEA President. "The Valpo Chamber was up against some very well-respected competition, so to take top honors like this really says a lot."

Chamber professional designations were also given at the award luncheon. Accredited Executive was given to Valpo Chamber President Rex Richards while Susan Antoszewski, Marketing & Communication Specialist/Publications Editor and Kurt Gillins, Programs Director, earned the designation of Certified Professional.

Valpo Chamber members who helped create the award winning communication pieces are: Valparaiso Magazine, Morse & Company Advertising Communications Inc., Home Mountain Printing, and Aran Kessler Photo Imaging; U-Guide, Foster Printing Service; and Website and Membership Directory, The Grossbauer Group.

The Distinguished Community Leader and Legacy of Service Awards represent the highest recognition of our Chamber towards members of the business community. Valpo Chamber Members are invited to nominate an individual or individuals for these prestigious acknowledgements.

The Distinguished Community Leader Award is given to an individual within the community who demonstrates a leadership role, is successful in promoting and developing business and industry, is involved and contributes to the community, has a general reputation among the community business leaders, and enhances the quality of life in our community on a sustained basis.

The Legacy of Service Award recognizes an individual in the community who has, over the course of time or in an extraordinary circumstance, given service to the community beyond what is expected in their profession.They have, in fact, created an example to which others might aspire and a legacy from which others might learn the value of community service.

The Award Committee consists of past recipients of the Distinguished Community Leader Award.This years awards will be presented at the Salute to Leadership dinner on Saturday, January 14, 2012.

To nominate a candidate for either of these awards, please download the Distinguished Community Leader nomination form (PDF) or Legacy of Service nomination form (PDF) and return to the Valpo Chamber by Thursday, November 10, 2011.

The Board of Directors of the Valpo Chamber will honor Bruce Leetz, Chairman-CEO of North Coast Distributing, Inc., with the 2010 Distinguished Community Leader Award. This award is given to an individual who demonstrates a leadership role, is successful in promoting and developing business and industry, is involved and contributes to the community, has a general reputation among the community business leaders and enhances the quality of life in our community on a sustained basis.

Larry Klemz, President of Home Mountain Printing, will be awarded the 2010 Legacy of Service Award. The Valpo Chamber Board of Directors created the Legacy of Service Award in 2004 to give recognition to individuals in the community who have, over the course of time or in an extraordinary circumstance, given service to the community beyond what is expected in their profession. They have, in fact, created an example to which others might aspire and a legacy from which others might learn the value of community service.

Four Valpo Chamber member businesses will also be honored with inaugural Valpo Chamber 50-75-100 Year Business Awards. Businesses recognized will be Peoples Bank, 100 years; Urschel Laboratories, 100 years, Lincoln Office, 75 years; and G.E. Marshall, Inc., 50 years.

Outgoing 2010 Board Chair, Nick Sommer, Century 21 Alliance Group and incoming 2011 Board Chair, Martin Sonnenberg, Task Force Tips, will also be honored. This event is open to the public with reservations at $60 per person. Reservations required. Seating is limited. Please phone the Valpo Chamber at (219) 462-1105 by January 10, 2010, for more information.

Dawn Collins, broker/owner of Century 21 Executive Realty announces the relocation of the Valparaiso Office to Cumberland Crossing. Century 21 Executive Realty provides professionally managed real estate transactions and supreme customer service to all of their clients. An agent is always on duty to serve the customer's real estate needs. Century 21 Executive Realty agents are: Millie Hartley, Marcela Mooney, Clytis Engel, Jeanette Hodges, Meredith Klemm, Jeff Albertson, Tricia Sena, Julie Dessauer, Kara Doyle, Shawn Finigan, Aaron Collins and Dawn Collins. The official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony will be held December 16, 2010. Office hours are Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Call (219) 531-2288, email DawnCollins@century21.com or visit www.century21valparaiso.com.

Opportunity Enterprises is the recipient of an $83,500 Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant funded through the U.S. Department of Energy (USDOE) and administered in Indiana by the Indiana Office of Energy Development (OED). The grant funding, supported with a 50 percent local match, will be used to replace 11 HVAC units and six split heating and air conditioning units located at Opportunity Enterprises' facility at 2801 Evans Avenue in Valparaiso. The current units are highly inefficient, both financially and environmentally, and will be replaced with 90 percent efficiency Lennox equipment. The installation has been set for October, weather permitting. For more information, please visit www.oppent.org.

Porter Health System is proud to announce CTQ Solutions has recognized the Chandana Surgery Center at its Valparaiso Outpatient Campus as a 2009/2010 APEX Quality Award winner. The APEX Quality Award stands for Attributes for Patient Excellence and is earned for excellence in patient satisfaction and overall quality of care. Chandana's performance was based on feedback provided by patients. CTQ Solutions, which stands for Critical to Quality, helps outpatient facilities monitor, benchmark and improve patient satisfaction. CTQ's goal is to provide facilities with meaningful insight to improve service and care. For additional information, visit www.porterhealth.com.

The Mental Health Alliance of Porter County, made up of Porter-Starke Services, Inc., the Porter-Starke Services Foundation, and Mental Health America of Porter County, recently celebrated and recognized the efforts of several outstanding individuals. Aileen Wehren of Porter-Starke Services received the Aled P. Davies Award for Public Policy on Health; Amanda Gano and Cindy Standiford of Housing Opportunities were awarded the Patient Care and Advocacy Award; Police Chief Michael Brickner and Fire Chief David Nondorf of the City of Valparaiso received the Porter-Starke Award to Community Mental Health; Barbara A. Young of the Porter County Community Foundation was recognized with the Robert A. Anderson Award for Community Education and Service. Also receiving awards were The Mercier Family with the Friends of Mental Health America Award; Sandy Padovani with the Margaret Steven Award; Amanda Wyatt as a United Way Volunteer Award Winner; and Jim & Dona Henry received the Distinguished Service Award. Heather Henderlong of Chicago Title Insurance received the Porter-Starke Services Foundation Impact Award and Bob Jacobs of North Coast Distributing received the Gale Corley President's Award.

On Tuesday, October 19, Porter-Starke Services will host its Learn @ Lunch series with an informative educational lecture entitled, "Bio-Psycho-Social Dimensions of Alcohol Abuse & Dependence" from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at the United Way of Porter County, located at 951 Eastport Centre Drive in Valparaiso. Patricia Mooney, PsyD, HSPP will be the featured speaker. This Learn@Lunch will address several dimensions of functioning influenced by the use of alcohol in our society such as leisure functioning, peer influences, coping skill development including reliance on external versus internal resources, subsequent loss of experience of one's personal growth as a resource in managing stressors and/or creating meaning. We will also address societal values and cultural expectations and messages, such as addiction versus abuse, abuse versus use and brain functioning changes under the influence of alcohol. There is no charge for the presentation. RSVP is required for attendance. For more information, please call (219) 476-4502 or email aroof@porterstarke.org.

Nonprofit organizations serving Porter County spent the evening of October 5 getting to know each other at the Nonprofit Expo sponsored by the Porter County Community Foundation and United Way of Porter County. More than 400 staff members and volunteers representing 70 different nonprofit organizations participated in the event that was held at the Porter County Expo Center. The event was organized to prompt networking among service providers and Board members as well as offer a greater understanding of the services being offered in Porter County. The organizations also had a chance to be awarded grants by participating in the event. The Porter County Community Foundation and United Way of Porter County gave away a total of $10,000 in unrestricted grants throughout the evening. Dunes Learning Center, Every Child Ministries, Frontline Foundations, Gabriel's Horn Homeless Shelter, HealthLinc and Prevent Child Abuse Porter County were the lucky recipients.

Porter County Aging & Community Services (PCACS) currently has an opportunity to make a donation toward their work with seniors, the disabled and low-income residents of Porter County and save money on your income tax at the same time. Through the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP), any Indiana resident, business or organization that donates $100 or more to PCACS will receive a credit for 50 percent of that amount to be deducted from their Indiana Income Tax. One hundred percent of the donated amount can also be claimed as a Federal Income Tax deduction. A donation of $200 will cover the cost to subsidize transportation for 100 seniors and/or provide over 100 round trips to doctor appointments, dialysis, the grocery store, etc. Make checks payable to Porter County Aging & Community Services with NAP written on the check and mail to: PCACS, 1005 Campbell Street, Valparaiso, IN 46385. For more information, call Melissa Westphal Benefiel (219) 464.9736 or visit their website at www.portercountyacs.org.

The National Science Foundation has awarded a grant a team of Purdue University North Central faculty members for their project "Connecting Mathematics for Elementary Teachers (CMET) Type II: Dissemination, Enhancement and Research." The team members are Dr. David Feikes, PNC professor of Mathematics; Dr. David Pratt, PNC associate professor of Education and coordinator of Learning & Technology; Dr. Keith E. Schwingendorf, PNC dean of the College of Science and Dr. Jeff L. Gregg, Purdue Calumet, associate professor of Mathematics Education. The project team will expand on their first two National Science Foundation grants where the textbook, "Connecting Mathematics for Elementary Teachers: How Children Learn Mathematics" was developed and authored by Feikes, Schwingendorf and Gregg. With this new grant, the team will develop videos designed to illustrate how children learn mathematics. Additional information may be obtained by contacting Feikes at dfeikes@pnc.edu Pratt at dpratt@pnc.edu.

Want to see your business information here? This is a member-only opportunity to submit business articles in paragraph form - i.e. awards, new addtions to staff or promotions of title, change of business location, events - that are 150 words or less.

Articles are subject to approval and may be edited. Photos and .pdf documents will not be accepted. Due to space constraints, articles will be accepted on a first-come/first-serve basis. Please send articles electronically to: santoszewski@valparaisochamber.org or info@valparaisochamber.org, subject line: Members in Motion.

Members in Motion will be blasted to the membership the third Friday of each month. All articles must be received by close of business the Monday before the third Friday. Late submissions will not be accepted.

We encourage you to take a few minutes to complete the short survey using the link below to assist in gathering important information on the business climate in Valparaiso.

To participate, please visit:www.pnc.edu/faculty/rutledge/survey.html

Thank you for your participation and interest in our local business climate. The results from this survey will be announced at the November 11 Percolator Club Monthly Membership Meeting.

The Greater Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce By-Laws state:

NOMINATIONS BY PETITION (Article VI, Section 2C) Additional names of candidates for Directors can be nominated by petition bearing the genuine signatures of at least fifteen (15) qualified members of the Chamber. Such petition shall be filed with the Nomination Committee within ten (10) days after notice has been given of the names of those nominated. The determination of the Nominating Committee as to the legality of the petition(s) shall be final.

Petitions should be mailed to: Nominating Committee Greater Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce PO Box 330 Valparaiso, IN 46384-0330

Join Diversified Marketing Strategies, publisher of Building Indiana magazine and the Midwest's owners, contractors, executive teams, plant managers, safety directors, engineers, auditors, and environmental professionals Nov. 1-2 at the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza in Merrillville for the Beyond Safety Conference & Expo. Discover how to use leading indicators to measure your safety performance, identify and close the gaps in your safety program. See the newest technology and stay up-to-date with safety news, trends and new products. Beyond Safety will connect attendees with the area's largest companies, through one-on-one dialogue, panel discussions, and breakout sessions. For more information, registration and sponsorships visit www.beyondsafetyexpo.com.

Porter County Aging & Community Services (PCACS) currently has an opportunity to make a donation toward their work with seniors, the disabled and low-income residents of Porter County and save money on your income tax at the same time. Through the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP), any Indiana resident, business or organization that donates $100 or more to PCACS will receive a credit for 50 percent of that amount to be deducted from their Indiana Income Tax. They can also claim 100 percent of the donated amount as a Federal Income Tax deduction. Make checks payable to Porter County Aging & Community Services with NAP written on the check and mail to: PCACS, 1005 Campbell Street, Valparaiso, IN 46385. For more information, call Melissa Westphal Benefiel (219.464.9736) or visit their website at www.portercountyacs.org.

Porter County Business League, a networking forum for business people in Northwest Indiana, announces that it is currently accepting grant applications for area non-profit organizations that promote business education and entrepreneurship. The grant application has been extended to September 20. Porter County Business League offers exclusive business-category memberships to area businesses, either located in Porter County or doing business there. If you are interested in becoming a member, or for a grant application, please visit the Porter County Business League web site at www.portercounty.com.

The Ultimate Expo is happening at the Porter County Expo Center on Saturday, Nov. 6. The Women's Show/Bridal Faire will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and an Indoor Garage Sale will be held from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Please call the Porter County Expo Center for more details at (219) 464-0133.

Start a new Thanksgiving tradition this year by entering the 7th Annual Turkey Trot Race to kick off your Holiday Season. This 5K Walk and 10K Race held on Thanksgiving Day morning starts at the Valparaiso High School Field House and is hosted by Porter-Starke Services Foundation. The 2010 Turkey Trot benefits mental health and substance abuse treatment in the community. This event is a Gold Cup Series Race and will feature computerized chip timing by T&H Timing. Early Bird Registration is now open, at $20 for the 10K and 5K races. After November 17th, all race registrations will be $30. Register online at www.porterstarke.org or www.thtiming.com. For more information please contact Amanda Roof at (219) 476-4502.

Learn how to take fabulous outdoor pictures from members of the Taltree Arboretum & Gardens Photography Club from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 10, 2010. Registration is required for the program, the cost of which is $15 for non-members and $12 for Taltree members. Participants will learn outdoor photography techniques from professional and experienced amateur Taltree Photography Club members. Interested photographers will need to wear comfortable outdoor clothing and shoes (tours may be up to three miles long), bring a camera with plenty of film or memory, charged batteries and a notebook. Beverages and light refreshments are included in registration fee. For more information, contact Taltree Arboretum & Gardens at (219) 462-0025, e-mail taltreephotoclub@gmail.com or at the Taltree Arboretum & Gardens Web site calendar: www.taltree.org.

The Visiting Nurse Association of Porter County will present "Lower Your Blood Pressure" at locations in Lake and Porter Counties in October. This informational program will provide attendees with increased knowledge regarding causes of hypertension (high blood pressure) and ways the attendees can attempt to lower their blood pressure. The importance of a healthy lifestyle and seeking healthcare assistance when appropriate will be emphasized as it relates to high blood pressure. Dates/locations include: October 5, 10:30 a.m., Merrillville Senior Center at Merrillville High School; October 15, 12:15 p.m.,Village Park Enrichment Center at Banta; October 22, 2:00 p.m. at Jamestown Apartments Community Center, and October 29, 3:00 p.m. at Linden House in Hobart. Participants will receive a free gift and healthy snack. For more information and to RSVP, call (219) 531-8009. Funding made possible by Northwest Indiana Community Action Corporation.

Terry Savage, a nationally recognized expert on personal finance, syndicated columnist, and best-selling author will share insights and tools to help you reach your financial goals. The evening is co-hosted by Vogelsang Asset Management LLC and Porter Hospital's Healthy Woman. The event will be held at Valparaiso University Harre Union on Tuesday, Sept. 28, at 6:30 p.m. Admission is $15.00 for members of Porter Healthy Woman or clients of Vogelsang Asset Management and $20.00 for the general public. Admission includes appetizers and a special gift. Tickets can be purchased online at www.valpo.edu/union/tickets/ or in person at the Harre Union Welcome Desk. For more information, please visit www.vogelsang.wfadv.com.

Want to see your business information here? This is a member-only opportunity to submit business articles in paragraph form - i.e. awards, new addtions to staff or promotions of title, change of business location, events - that are 150 words or less. Articles are subject to approval and may be edited. Photos and .pdf documents will not be accepted. Due to space constraints, articles will be accepted on a first-come/first-serve basis. Please send articles electronically to: santoszewski@valparaisochamber.org or info@valparaisochamber.org subject line: Members in Motion. Members in Motion will be blasted to the membership the third Friday of each month. All articles must be received by close of business the Monday before the third Friday. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Girl Scout Troop 30564 is organizing a Scholarship Silent Auction to benefit the Hilltop Neighborhood House, as part of their highest achievement, the Girl Scout Gold Award. The event will be held on Saturday, November 6 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.at the Legacy Banquet Center located at 1356 W Lincolnway. Monies raised will benefit a childcare scholarship fund helping low income families afford quality childcare. For information/tickets contact gsatroop30564@comcast.net. For sponsorship opportunities, or silent auction donations, contact Melissa Gronceski at (219) 477-2411. For tickets contact Erin Rowland at (219) 759-0003 or Tom Rowland at Treehouse Financial at (219) 736-7777. Tickets include an appetizer buffet.

Lakeshore Area Regional Recover of Indiana (LARRI) will remember the second anniversary of the devastating floods that occurred in Northwest Indiana on Sept. 14, 2008. LARRI has planned a multi-town event called "Remembering the Past, Hope for the Future," that will bring together flood survivors, their families, friends, and the community in a gesture of support and solidarity. The floods caused damage to over 18,000 homes in Northwest Indiana. The anniversary event will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 14 and will feature music, a service, and fellowship. The location schedule is as follows: 9:00 a.m. at Southside Christian Church, 1000 Broadmoor Ave., Munster; 12:00 p.m. at Gary Neighborhood Services, 300 W. 21st Ave., Gary; 3:00 p.m. at Iglesia De Dios Pentecostal M.I., 3950 Marquette Rd, Lake Station; 5:00 p.m. at Catholic Church Charities, 321 W. 11th St., Michigan City; and 7:00 p.m. at Frank J. Gilbert Jr. Memorial Park, 2775 Willowcreek Rd., Portage. For more information about LARRI call (219) 836-1325 or visit www.larri.info.

Marc T. Nielsen Interiors is proud to announce the addition of Tiffany Reppen as Operations Manager. Reppen, who has over eight years of business management experience, manages the daily operations, focusing on building client relationships and working with the Marc T. Nielsen team on project management. To learn more about Marc T. Nielsen Interiors and the services offered, please visit www.marctnielseninteriors.com or call (219) 462-9812.

Opportunity Enterprises is seeking volunteers for its annual Pack-a-thon, Sept. 25 at OE's main facility at 2801 Evans Avenue, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., or until packing is complete. Eight hundred volunteers are needed to pack over 45,000 runner bags for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Scout troops, corporate teams, youth groups, sports teams, school clubs and organizations, or groups of friends and family are all welcome to participate. Individual volunteers are also welcome. Volunteers must be at least 8 years of age. The day will include music, lunch, and lots of high energy fun. Volunteers are required to pre-register at www.oppent.org. Volunteers are asked to arrive at 8:00 and stay until packing is complete. To find out more about the event, contact Cathy Kuchenmeister at 219-464-9621, ext. 283, or cathy.kuchenmeister@oppent.org.

The staff at A Positive Approach to Teen Health (PATH) would appreciate the opportunity to share their passion for teens and invite the public to experience the "Teens in Crisis Tour." PATH, established in 1993, is constantly growing and changing and has a unique approach and great new programs for youth. PATH is getting its mission out to the community and asking for feedback about its programs and services. PATH is offering a one-hour program and tour for the community to see its work first hand. Please visit www.pathblazer.org/americanteensincrisis or contact wade@pathblazer.org for more information.

Porter County Aging & Community Services will host two upcoming presentations in September. "Crime Prevention for Seniors" presented by Porter County Sheriff David Lain, Thursday, Sept. 2 at 1:00 p.m., Rittenhouse Senior Living, 1300 Vale Park Road. Lain will explain ways to avoid being the victim of a crime, when to contact the police, and the resources available through our local police force, etc. "Retirement Planning 101" by Mitchell Marcus, Senior Investment Executive for Centier Bank, will be Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2:00 p.m., Miller's Senior Living, 5911 Lute Road, Portage. Marcus will explain specific ways to prepare financially for retirement now and the resources available to as you plan for retirement. These are free 60 minute presentations that are open to the public. These programs are possible through funding from Northwest Indiana Community Action (NWICA). If interested, RSVP to Melissa Benefiel at Porter County Aging & Community Services at (219) 263-8300.

Porter County Builders Association (PCBA), in partnership with the City of Valparaiso and The Greater Northwest Indiana Association of REALTORS®, is hosting the 3rd annual Living Green Expo on Saturday, Sept. 25 at Butterfield Pavilion, Old Fairgrounds Park. Expo hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and will feature state-of-the-art green technology, as well as energy-saving, cost-saving and environmentally-friendly products and services which can be used in homes and neighborhoods. The Living Green Expo committee is ready to accept booth reservations from vendors whose products and services fit with the purpose of Expo. New this year, the Living Green Expo is offering booth space to artists who create art out of recycled materials. Booth prices vary. Interested vendors may find more information and a registration form at www.pcbaonline.com on the Living Green tab or contact the PCBA office at (219) 464-2944 or pcbaoffice@pcbaonline.com.

The Porter County Community Foundation recognized the remarkable work being done by individuals and local nonprofit organizations by awarding four Outstanding Achievement Awards at its annual celebration held in July. Award recipients were: Outstanding Nonprofit Staff: Gary Mitchell, Opportunity Enterprises; Outstanding Nonprofit Organization: Valparaiso Family YMCA; Outstanding Volunteer: John Craighead; and Outstanding Professional Advisor: William Wagner, Hoeppner Wagner & Evans. For more information about the Porter County Community Foundation and its mission, visit www.portercountyfoundation.org.

Dedicated to enhancing the quality of life within our communities, Porter-Starke Services hosts "Breakfast with Steve Ford" on Friday, August 27 from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Valparaiso University Harre Union. Steve Ford, successful actor and son of Gerald and Betty Ford Mr. Ford speaks personally about his life challenged with mental health issues and substance abuse. This keynote address over breakfast benefits the Porter-Starke Services Foundation, and is the "kick-off" event of its 2010 Changing Minds Campaign. For additional information or to Purchase tickets visit www.porterstarke.org or call (219) 531-3510.

ScoreCorrect, a national credit services company, recently announced a new service providing a free direct connection to a credit expert attorney. All mortgage and realty professionals, builders, and consumers now have unlimited email access to a credit expert attorney. ScoreCorrect's expertise includes: FCRA Certified by Consumer Data Industry Association (CDIA), CROA Certified by National Association of Credit Services Organizations (NACSO), Credit Expert Certified by CreditCRM, and Credit Expert Trained by John Ulzheimer, national credit reporting and scoring expert. ScoreCorrect is BBB-Accredited and is fully compliant with consumer protection laws including the Credit Repair Organizations Act (CROA) and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). For more information visit www.scorecorrect.com, call (866) 716-3984, or simply email your credit-related question to creditattorney@scorecorrect.com.

Valparaiso University will host its 13th annual Career Fair on Friday, Sept. 17, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Harre Union. It is an opportunity for businesses and non-profits to meet VU students, acquaint them with your business or organization, learn more about the University, and identify students you may be interested in hiring. However, you do not need to have job or internship openings to participate. The cost is only $175 ($60 for non-profits and government agencies). For more information call Tom Cath, Director of the Career Center, at (219) 464-5005. To register for the Fair, go to www.valpo.edu/career/employers.

The Visiting Nurse Association of Porter County (VNA) will present "Coping with Grief and Loss" at locations in Lake and Porter Counties in September. This informational program will provide attendees with an increased knowledge of how to cope with the different types of losses that occur as they age. This will enable them to recognize when their grief has become something they need to consult their healthcare provider about. Programs will be Sept. 14, 10:30 a.m., Merrillville Senior Center at Merrillville High School, 276 E. 68th Place; Sept. 17, 12:15 p.m., Village Park Enrichment Center at Banta, 605 Beech St.; Sept. 24, 2:00 p.m., Jamestown Apartments Community Center, Virginia Park Drive; Sept. 28, 12:00 p.m., Linden House 360 West 61st Street, Hobart. Participants will receive a free gift and a healthy snack. For more information and to RSVP, please contact the VNA at (219) 531-8073.

The Valparaiso Department of Parks and Recreation invites you to participate in the 2nd Annual Labor Day Weekend Amateur Golf Tournament. The tournament will be held at Forest Park Golf Course, 1155 Sheffield Drive, Thursday, Sept. 2nd through Monday, Sept. 6th. Players need to play two (2) 18-hole rounds within the five day period. Players can call to set up tee times and playing partners for the tournament. The entry fee is $10 per player and men and women 16 years and older can sign up for the tournament. The number of participants will determine the number of flights and numbers of winners. Call 219-531-PUTT (7888) for more details.

Want to see your business information here? This is a member-only opportunity to submit business articles in paragraph form - i.e. awards, new addtions to staff or promotions of title, change of business location, events - that are 150 words or less. Articles are subject to approval and may be edited. Photos and .pdf documents will not be accepted. Due to space constraints, articles will be accepted on a first-come/first-serve basis. Please send articles electronically to: santoszewski@valparaisochamber.org or info@valparaisochamber.org subject line: Members in Motion. Members in Motion will be blasted to the membership the third Friday of each month. All articles must be received by close of business the Monday before the third Friday. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Chamber member Design Organization was retained to develop the overall concept and prepare the detailed specifications for the bid process. During the competitive bid process, chamber member Berglund Construction was selected for construction.

The project is estimated to take eight weeks to complete and will complete the internal renovation of the Chamber building that began six years ago. This final phase of renovation will provide both a functional and attractive meeting location for Chamber members and building partners.

The mission of the Valpo Chamber Leadership Academy is to provide a growing pool of volunteer leaders for current and future civic, charitable, and governmental organizations in Valparaiso.

The Academy complements other leadership organizations with a focused training on the skills and knowledge necessary to be an effective leader in the community; for example, expectations of board service, governance, understanding financial statements, fundraising, ethics, accountability, and time management. However, the Valpo Chamber Leadership Academy is not just about training. At the end of the program, participants are expected to become engaged with community organizations in leadership roles.

Those accepted to the 2010 Leadership Academy are: Wesley Barnes, Scannell Wealth Management Group; Kelly Biggs, 1st Source Bank; Scott Bozik, Blachly, Tabor, Bozik & Hartman LLC; Wade Breitzke, PATH-A Positive Approach to Teen Health; Carrie Crisan, Valparaiso Dept. of Parks and Recreation; Shawn Dickt, MacLennan & Bain Insurance; Nicole Fech, JD, Ivy Tech Community College; Deanna Garner, Recycling & Waste Reduction District of Porter County; Laura Gerhardt, Absolutely Dry; Daniel Graham, Design Organization Inc.; Jonathan Hildebrand, Centier Bank; Christine Hisick, sponsored by Masterson Alliance LLC Insurance Services; Kristin Jacobson, The Times Media Company; Kevin Letta, Vogelsang Asset Management; Ian MacLaverty, Purdue University North Central; Elizabeth Marks, Lakeside Wealth Management, and Chad Melchi, Burke Costanza & Cuppy LLP.

The 2010 Valpo Chamber Leadership Academy is sponsored in part by Silver Partners: 1st Source Bank, Citizens Financial Bank, Harris N.A., REGIONAL federal credit union, The Times Media Company, and in-kind sponsor United Way of Porter County.

The Discoveries Unlimited STEM Mentor program is currently accepting applications from individuals interested in becoming a STEM Mentor for the fall program session. Mentors and students correspond weekly via e-mail on a variety of STEM career topics and meet face-to-face once a month. Professionals who are interested in becoming a STEM Mentor can apply on-line at www.discoveriesunlimited.org. Applications are accepted now through August 14, 2010. For more information, please contact Cathie Dull at (219) 508-5606 or at discoveriesunlimited@gmail.com.

The Grossbauer Group is pleased to announce the addition of its newest team member, Alexandra "Alex" Hayes. Alex hails from the Atlanta area, where she graduated cum laude from the Savannah College of Arts and Design. Hayes joins The Grossbauer Group's dynamic graphic design team lead by Creative Director Adam Ispas. She will be responsible for graphic design elements of a multitude of projects for both print and web applications. Please join us in welcoming Alex to The Grossbauer Group and to Northwest Indiana. She may be reached at alex@ggnet.net or by calling 926-1000 x-211.

Growing Kids Learning Center opened its doors July 6 to the families of Valparaiso providing child care for infants through school-age children, Monday through Friday 6:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. In celebration of the opening, Growing Kids would like to share the school with you, your friends, family, co-workers and neighbors at its Open House on Thursday, July 22 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Rain Date July 23). This is a great time to see and experience Growing Kids at full operation. Food and activities like a magician, face painting, balloons, and a bounce house will be available for kids to enjoy. This opening marks the fifth Growing Kids Learning Center for Mike and Beth Garatoni. For additional information, call (219) 462-7777 or visit www.growingkids.com.

The Alliance for Affordable Services has named Porter County agent Trish Ramirez with Insphere Insurance Solutions one of its Top 150 representatives for the second quarter of 2010. The Alliance leverages the strength of numbers to help self-employed small business owners, individuals and families save money on health, business and personal benefits. For additional information about Ramirez or Insphere Insurance Solutions, call (219) 246-7369 or visit www.insphereis.com/trish.ramirez.

Insphere Insurance Solutions will host a free seminar for small business owners, individuals, families, & the self-employed titled "Life Insurance to Protect Family and Business" to be held Thursday, July 22, at 5:00 p.m. at REGIONAL federal credit union, 2801 Boilermaker Court. Call Trish Ramirez (219) 246-7369 today to reserve. Group size is limited.

The LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra featuring Philip Bauman Music Director/Conductor will perform a free concert on Saturday, August 14, at 7:00 p.m. on the grounds of Ivy Tech Community College, 3100 Ivy Tech Dr. Concert patrons are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets and picnic baskets, and enjoy the music. Everyone is welcome. The concert is free thanks to the generous support of the City of Valparaiso, Ivy Tech Community College, Valparaiso Dept. of Parks & Recreation along with many other area sponsors and donors. For more information, contact Cindy Hall at Ivy Tech at (219) 464-8514 or Megan Owens at Valparaiso Parks Department at (219) 462-5144.

Helping your neighbor in need has never been more rewarding! The Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority has awarded New Creation Business Advocates $17,600 in state tax credits to give to its donors. Donations will go toward putting caring, professional staff persons at the service of Porter County homeless men. Through the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP), for every $2 donated, the donor (individual or business) receives $1 off the bottom line of his/her state taxes, while using the donation as usual on federal tax forms. Tom Isakson, Executive Director, says seeking donations at this level is something new for New Creation. The agency runs primarily on income from its furniture/appliance resale shop, but this opportunity to offer donors a gift in return made this the right time to diversify income sources and increase client services. For more information: 219-548-3548 or tomi@ncbai.org.

The Friends of Opportunity Enterprises (OE) announces that the third annual "One Amazing Golf Outing" will take place on Mon., Aug. 23 at Valparaiso Country Club. State Senator Ed Charbonneau and Valparaiso Country Club President Lee Loudermilk will serve as chairmen of the golf outing. Last year, more than 140 golfers from throughout Northwest Indiana helped raise more than $17,000 for OE. The outing features an 18-hole scramble format with an entry price of $125 per golfer, or $500 for a foursome. A maximum of 35 foursomes will be slotted to play this year. To register a foursome or serve as a sponsor, interested persons should contact Mark Davidson at (219) 928-0893 or Chris Runnion at (630) 364-9801.

Porter County Aging & Community Services (PCACS) recently conducted the 57th Annual Meeting of their membership at the Wilbur H. Hutchins Community Center where client stories were spotlighted at the beginning of the meeting, including a client from their Energy Assistance Program and a senior couple who use their door-to-door transportation service. Clifford Mailings was reelected President of the PCACS Board with Bob Macmahon serving as Vice President. George Iiemmolo will serve as Secretary and Lisa Marek will hold the Treasurer position. For more information about PCACS, visit their website at www.portercountyacs.org or call their office at (219) 464-9736.

Since expanding the hours of operation for their buses the first of this year, Porter County Aging & Community Services (PCACS) has experienced a significant growth in ridership for their demand response transportation service. In the first six months of 2010, they provided 44 percent more rides than in the first six months of last year. Over half of the 11,886 rides they have provided so far this year were free rides to the disabled. PCACS provides door to door transportation in Porter County. According to Executive Director, Bruce Lindner, Porter County residents can travel anywhere they want to go in Porter County and back to their home again for $2. Disabled persons ride free and low-income riders may receive subsidies to cover the cost. To learn more, visit their website at www.portercountyacs.org or call (219) 462-4302.

Porter County Builders Association (PCBA), in partnership with the City of Valparaiso and The Greater Northwest Indiana Association of REALTORS® is hosting the 3rdannual Living Green Expo on Saturday, September 25 at the Butterfield Pavilion in Old Fairgrounds Park in Valparaiso, Indiana. Expo hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Expo is part of a continuing effort by the Porter County Builders Association to increase the Region's awareness of green living practices. It will feature state-of-the-art green technology, as well as energy-saving, cost-saving and environmentally-friendly products and services which can be used in homes and neighborhoods. The Living Green Expo committee is ready to accept booth reservations from vendors whose products and services fit with the purpose of Expo. New this year, the Living Green Expo is offering booth space to artists who create art out of recycled materials. The committee is looking for artists dedicated to giving discarded objects and yard sale finds a second chance by repurposing them into artwork. This practice fits with the purpose of the Living Green Expo because by giving these items a new life, artists are keeping them out of landfills. Booth prices vary, and there are discounts for registering by August 12. Interested vendors may find more information and a registration form at www.pcbaonline.com on the Living Green tab or contact the PCBA office at (219) 464-2944 or pcbaoffice@pcbaonline.com.

On Tuesday, July 20, Porter-Starke Services will host its Learn @ Lunch series with an informative education lecture entitled, "Suicide Prevention and Intervention" from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Porter-Starke Services, located at 701 Wall Street (Entrance C) in Valparaiso. Mike Hofmann, LSW, Director of Admissions & Emergency Services at Porter-Starke Services and member of Northwest Indiana Suicide Coalition will be the featured speaker. There is no charge for the presentation. RSVP is required for attendance. For more information, please call (219) 476-4502 or email: bpierce@porterstarke.org.

Purdue University North Central will begin an externship program this fall semester that will match students with area companies and non-profit organizations giving students an opportunity to shadow professionals in their field of interest and learn more about careers and the workplace. Businesses and organizations interested in offering an externship to a qualified PNC student can learn more by contacting Natalie Connors via email at careers@pnc.edu.

Valparaiso University will host its 13th annual Career Fair on Friday, Sept. 17, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Harre Union. It is an opportunity for businesses and non-profits to meet VU students, acquaint them with your business or organization, learn more about the University, and identify students you may be interested in hiring. However, you do not need to have job or internship openings to participate. A wide variety of employers will be there representing many industries, occupations and fields. The cost is only $175 ($60 for non-profits and government agencies). For more information call Tom Cath, Director of the Career Center, at (219) 464-5005. To register for the Fair, go to www.valpo.edu/career/employers.

WorkingWell Occupational Healthcare, a division of The Sisters of St. Francis Health Services, is the first occupational health provider in the world to receive ISO 9001:2008 Certification. WorkingWell provides occupational healthcare services for all types of workers, including professional, industrial, police force and firefighters. WorkingWell has five locations serving Northwest Indiana, Southwest Michigan and Southeast Chicago area employers, offering services ranging from wellness, education and rehabilitation. For additional information, visit www.workingwellsite.org.

Want to see your business information here? This is a member-only opportunity to submit business articles in paragraph form - i.e. awards, new addtions to staff or promotions of title, change of business location, events - that are 150 words or less. Articles are subject to approval and may be edited. Photos and .pdf documents will not be accepted. Due to space constraints, articles will be accepted on a first-come/first-serve basis. Please send articles electronically to: santoszewski@valparaisochamber.org or info@valparaisochamber.org subject line: Members in Motion. Members in Motion will be blasted to the membership the third Friday of each month. All articles must be received by close of business the Monday before the third Friday. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Join the fun! Tickets go on sale June 1 for this casual party where members, spouses, friends, and the community connect. Rain or shine; must be 21. To purchase tickets or for additional information, contact the Chamber office at (219) 462-1105.

Presenting Sponsor: Porter Health System

Featured Sponsors: Centier Bank, REGIONAL federal credit union, Teachers Credit Union; Contributing Sponsors: 1st Source Bank, Citizens Financial Bank, Harris N.A., The Times Media Company; Supporting Sponsors: Golden Technologies, Inc., Horizon Bank, MacLennan & Bain Insurance, Mortgage Professional Group, Peoples Bank, Scannell Wealth Management Group, and Valuation Services LLC.

Over 370,000 small businesses and organizations trust Constant Contact to help them get more. You can too! Get more loyalty and business from your customers. Get more from your marketing budget and efforts. There's never been a better time to get more successful-by using Constant Contact.

To take advantage of this member benefit today, call (866) 289-2101 or visit www.constantcontact.com/chambermembers.

To purchase gift certificates, visit the chamber office, call (219) 462-1105 or download the order form and fax it to (219) 462-5710. All major credit cards, checks and cash accepted.

Business owners, is your company one of the many member merchants taking advantage of being enrolled in our gift certificate program? It's fast, FREE, and easy to sign up! In 2009, nearly 4,000 gift certificates were sold with a redemption value of over $65,000! The Valpo Chamber Gift Certificate is free exposure of your business! Sign up today!

The awards luncheon, sponsored by Porter Health System, will honor 10 local businesses for their commitment and investment in Valparaiso.

These projects join the more than 200 properties that have been recognized since the awards program began in 1967. Community Improvement Awards are based on the visual impact of exterior appearance and are judged on the following criteria: enhances the attractiveness of Valparaiso; compatible with the area and environment; creativity/innovation in both design and use of materials; enhances the quality of life and promotes pride in Valparaiso; and makes a commitment to Valparaisos future.

The Valparaiso Historic Preservation Commission will also present its Heritage Award for Historic Preservation at the luncheon. This award is given to the owner of a building whose construction or renovation efforts result in significant enhancements reinforcing the historic character of Valparaiso.

The judges for the 2010 Community Improvement Awards were Chris Campbell, Centier Bank; Shannon Franko, Peoples Bank; Marti Masterson, Masterson Alliance LLC Insurance Services; and Mark Trumbull, Digital Graphic Solutions.

Contact the Chamber office for reservations or additional event information at (219) 462-1105.

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