fall 2013

VM 

THE MAGAZINE OF THE GREATER VALPARAISO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 

Vol. 13 Issue 4 | Fall 2013 

Valparaiso 

magazine 

From left 

martin John Binder 

robert Flude iii 

Jeanette Binder 

Martin Binder Jeweler 

A 

martin Binder 

Jeweler takes a 

sentimental journey

800-727-6337 • www.nwicp.com

VM 

Vol. 

Valparaiso Magazine 

13 | Issue 4 

Fall 2013 

coVer 

Features 

Page 4 

A 

Page 12 

Rx for Success 

Family focus key to Fagen 

Pharmacy’s legacy 

Page 16 

A Father’s Legacy 

Generations of family members 

enjoy hometown “digs” 

A publication of the Greater Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce 

162 W. Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383 

Phone (219) 462-1105, Fax (219) 462-5710 

info@valparaisochamber.org 

www.valparaisochamber.org 

GREATER VALPARAISO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 

Rex Richards, President 

Julie Gaskell, Executive Vice President 

Danielle Oeding, Vice President, Sales & Marketing 

Susan Antoszewski, Marketing & 

Communications Specialist 

Kurt Gillins, Programs Director 

Christine Pazdur, Accounting Director 

Sue Stymiest, Resource Director 

VALPARAISO MAGAZINE 

Publisher: Rex Richards 

Editor: Susan Antoszewski 

Sales: Danielle Oeding 

Design and Production: Morse + Harris Marketing 

Cover/Feature Photography: Aran Kessler Photo.Imaging 

Printing: Home Mountain Printing 

Mailing: Flanagin’s Bulk Mail Service 

VALPARAISO MAGAZINE is published 

quarterly by the Greater Valparaiso 

Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 330, 

Valparaiso, IN 46384-0330. 

To submit “Around Town” entries, 

call (219) 462-1105 or send to: 

info@valparaisochamber.org, Attn: Editor. 

For advertising inquiries, 

call (219) 462-1105, Attn: Danielle. 

VALPARAISO MAGAZINE circulates 

18,000 copies per issue by direct mail to 

all businesses, and, on a rotating basis, 

to most households in the 46383, 46384 

and 46385 zip codes. 

Subscriptions may be purchased 

at an annual rate of $12, for those 

outside our regular circulation. 

sections 

Page 11 

Business Snapshot 

Smoochie Pooch 

Page 18 

Chamber Focus: 

Chamber Network Night 

The premier business-to-business 

networking event of the year 

Page 20 

Business Snapshot 

Thrifty and Chic 

Page 23 

New Member Investors 

New Board-approved members 

Page 24 

Around Town 

Local business news 

Page 28 

Member Investor 

Anniversaries 

A showcase of members who have 

demonstrated ongoing commitment 

Page 31 

Ask an Expert 

“Data Breach Compliance: 

Is your Business Safe?” 

Page 33 

Business Spotlight 

Advertisers in the spotlight 

Page 34 

Our Voice 

“A Healthy Business Climate 

for all ‘Seasons’” 

calendar 

oF eVents 


3

martin Binder Jeweler takes a sentimental Journey 

A 

By Andrew Tallackson 

4

Jeanette Binder was attending her high school reunion 

recently when a former classmate approached her. The 

woman was wearing a diamond ring, one purchased 

years ago from Martin Binder Jeweler. 

“I want you to know,” the woman told Jeanette, “your 

dad sold this to me, and I will never forget his kindness.” 

“I just said to her, ‘That was Daddy.’” 

Upon hearing the story, Jeanette’s brother, Martin John 

Binder, offers an affi rming smile. The story is a fond 

reminder of how Martin and Mary Binder, their parents, 

started a business that, over time, nestled into the 

hearts of its customers. 

Martin John, now retired from the business, can share 

stories that speak volumes about his parents’ legacy. 

He tells of second- and third-generation customers, for 

instance, who arrive at the store with jewelry needing 

repairs, complete in the original boxes from the exact 

date of purchase. The boxes, he says, have as much 

sentimental value as the jewelry itself. 

Jeanette, in fact, recalls a phone call from someone 

who inherited a Martin Binder piece. The heirloom came 

with a specifi c message: Only a Martin Binder employee 

could repair it. 

Stories like that put life into perspective for Jeanette and 

Martin John. 

“We have people tell us that if there is not a Martin 

Binder box under their Christmas tree, then it’s not 

Christmas,” Jeanette says. “If that gift is from Martin 

Binder, it is a gift from the heart. You made someone 

happy. Isn’t that wonderful, to be part of something 

like that?” >> 


5

a Family aFFair 

If that gift is 

from Martin 

Binder, it is a 

gift from the 

heart. You 

made someone 

happy. Isn’t 

that wonderful, 

to be part of 

something like 

that? 

>> Martin Binder Jeweler, 23 E. Lincolnway, 

along with Fagen Pharmacy and G.E. Marshall 

Inc., represent Valparaiso businesses where 

family is the driving force, where more than one 

generation of the same family works side by side. 

Martin Binder Jeweler began as a small retail 

jewelry business and now is a third-generation, 

family-owned fi ne Guild jewelry store. Although 

the original store opened in 1940 in Columbia 

City, Ind., owners Martin and Mary Binder left the 

area, Jeanette says, because they wanted to be 

closer to family in Gary. 

The Binders moved to Hobart, Ind., before fi nally 

settling on Valparaiso in 1950. 

Martin liked the progressive nature 

of the city, especially the presence 

of a university. Martin and Mary 

worked as a team. Jeanette, 

Martin John, and their late sister, 

Carol, spent their youth helping 

customers and learning the fi ne 

details of the business. Over time, 

Carol would become an integral part of the staff, 

serving as offi ce manager, answering phones and 

greeting customers. 

Over the years, the business evolved into a 

destination point. The Binder family became 

respected in a city that supported its own. 

The move to the corner of Franklin Street and 

Lincolnway is one such example. Jeanette and 

Martin John recall their parents being hesitant at 

fi rst, fearful the move was one the family couldn’t 

afford. But encouragement from people the 

family admired propelled the business forward. To 

this day, no one regrets the move. 

In fact, it was the community of Valparaiso that 

rose to the occasion during the family’s toughest 

[My father] once told me, ‘it’s 

not about the size of the sale. It’s 

about the meaning of the sale and 

what it means to the people who 

are getting it.’ 

—Jeanette Binder 

—Martin John Binder 

6 

Valparaiso Magazine | Fall 2013

hour. In 1976, Martin Binder 

passed away unexpectedly at 

63 years old. However, because 

of the strong foundation Martin 

and Mary had established for the 

company, and particularly 

because of its many loyal 

customers, many of whom had 

become good friends, the family 

took comfort in knowing Martin 

Binder Jeweler would not only 

continue, but flourish. 

The family’s decision to buy 

and remodel the building 

solidified Martin Binder Jeweler’s 

commitment to Valparaiso and the 

region. Over the years, continued efforts to improve the aesthetic 

appeal of the business eventually caught the eye of the Greater 

Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce, which bestowed its Community 

Improvement Award to the store for restoring the exterior of the 

building in 2011. 

Jeanette and Martin John admit they both had opportunities early 

in life to leave Valparaiso, to pursue their own interests. Martin 

John, in fact, was interested in aviation, having worked at the Porter 

County Regional Airport 

through high school. 

Ultimately, family and the 

values instilled by their 

parents steered them back 

home. Jeanette remains 

involved as a designer. 

“You never forget the 

person who gave you your 

ideas about life,” Martin 

John says. “My father 

didn’t say much, but when 

he did, people listened. 

He once told me, ‘it’s not 

It made you 

feel good, to 

know that, 

through that 

sale, you 

helped create 

a story that is 

handed down 

through the 

generations. 

— Robert Flude III 

about the size of the sale. It’s about the meaning of the sale and 

what it means to the people who are getting it.’” 

On a gorgeous Saturday afternoon, with nary a cloud in the sky 

and temperatures hovering in the mid-70s, Martin Binder Jeweler is 

packed with customers. 

Couples lean over glass display cases, excitedly pointing at items 

that pique their curiosity. They’re assisted by employees with warm 

smiles, the conversations lively and jovial. 

Amid the throngs of customers is Robert Flude III, Martin Binder 

Jeweler’s president and a third-generation family member to >> 


7

a Family aFFair 

>> become involved in the business. As Jeanette’s oldest 

son, and one of Martin and Mary’s grandchildren, all of 

whom have worked at the store, he was introduced to the 

family business much like his mother, by working there when 

he was young. 

“It was always so upbeat,” he said of the family business. 

“Of course, everything about life was so new to me at 

that time, it was exhilarating. I loved meeting people and 

developing some sort of relationship with them. I took a lot of 

pride in that. It made you feel good, to know that, through that 

sale, you helped create a story that is handed down through 

the generations.” 

Robert graduated from Ball State University with a degree in 

business management and marketing. He returned to Martin 

Binder in 1991. His wife, Helen, not only has supported him 

over the years, but is involved in the business as well. 

Robert also travels throughout the year to places such as 

India, Thailand, and Hong Kong, his philosophy being that by 

doing so, he’s able to bring a better competitive edge to the 

business, offering better pricing, selections, and quality. 

And now, Robert will preside over the latest chapter in 

Martin Binder Jeweler’s evolution: a new home at 650 

Morthland Drive. Renovations, he said, should be completed 

in early November. 

Over the past few years, talk circulated throughout the family 

that it was time for Martin Binder Jeweler to consider a move. 

With more than 25 employees and increased offerings, the 

business was growing. But, at 2,700 square feet, the building 

was at its capacity. 

It will be a bittersweet move for the family. Efforts are under 

way, however, to make sure the right business moves in to the 

old location, Martin John says, one that “best complements 

the spirit of Valparaiso’s downtown.” 

The new site is more than 9,000 square feet and will be 

more comfortable and accessible to customers. It will 

feature custom-made Sapele wood showcases, private VIP 

showrooms, a children’s playroom and an adult guest lounge, 

as well as computer-aided jewelry design and expanded 

jewelry- and watch-repair areas. 

The new location symbolizes an extension of the dream 

Martin and Mary Binder had for their business. 

Robert Flude and 

Jeanette Binder 

review plans for 

new site located at 

650 Morthland Drive. 

“We have the chance to create a world-class store,” Flude 

says. “We can really hit that mark for what this city and our 

customers deserve.” VM 

8 


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Business snaPshot 

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Telephone: (219) 617-9880 mobile grooming; 

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11

x 

for 

Success 

By Andrew Tallackson 

When Gerald A. Fagen was 14, his father passed away, 

leaving Gerald and his siblings to support their family. 

Living in Gary, where he was born, Fagen landed a job at 

Glen Park Pharmacy, cleaning and stocking shelves. Over 

the next several years, the pharmacist, Lou Papak, would 

have a profound impact on his future. The boy admired his 

newfound mentor’s ability to create a family atmosphere. 

“He was very compassionate,” Fagen says of Papak. “He 

knew all the customers and he gave good advice. He was a 

friend to our family, and when I started to look back on it, 

I realized that’s probably why I got the job. This man was 

trying to help us out.” 

Today, Fagen, through his Fagen Pharmacy chain, has 23 

sites in Indiana and Illinois, including two in Valparaiso. Three 

of his fi ve children, Jerry H., Melissa, and Brian, work with 

him. Jerry is director of pharmacy. Melissa is the director of 

marketing and media. Brian handles liquor purchasing and 

runs the South Haven store. 

The chain’s motto, “Filling Your Family’s Needs for 

More Than 41 years,” is an update of the original slogan, 

“Your Family Has a Friend at Fagen’s.” Papak’s infl uence 

can be found in both. 

After graduating from Purdue University’s School of 

Pharmacy in 1968, Fagen landed a job with a chain 

pharmacy, only to discover that it lacked the family-friendly 

approach of Glen Park Pharmacy. So, he opened the fi rst 

Fagen Pharmacy in Cedar Lake in 1972. Eighteen months 

later, he purchased the DeMotte, Ind., store that became 

the company’s headquarters. 

12 


Family focus key to Fagen Pharmacy’s legacy 

The chain has been part of Valparaiso 

for 20 years. Its two locations include 

one inside the new HealthLinc, 1001 

Sturdy Road, and the other in a new 

home at 3400 N. Calumet Ave. That 

site became available after a fire near 

the store’s prior location at 3025 N. 

Calumet Ave. suffered extensive 

smoke damage in June 2013. Within 

two weeks, operations were moved 

to the new site. Remodeling is under 

way, and Fagen says the work should 

be completed by early November. 

Larger than the previous site, the store 

will include new offerings such as a 

prescriptions-compounding lab and 

immunization and consultation rooms. 

Through it all, Fagen has tried to 

impart on his employees what he 

learned from Papak. 

“I attempt to instill in all employees that 

we will be successful if we remember 

to treat each customer as if they were 

family,” Fagen says. 

That’s what Fagen’s children admire 

about him. It also helps explain why they 

wanted to be part of that legacy. 

“I know how committed my dad 

has always been to taking care of 

customers like they are family,” Melissa 

Fagen says. “He has worked very hard 

and long hours to get where he is today. 

Because of that, I am proud to work for 

his company.” 

How customers are treated, Brian 

Fagen stresses, is the key to the 

success of Fagen Pharmacy. 

“While keeping the family in the 

business,” he says, “we have created 

a family atmosphere, even if our 

employees or customers are not 

blood relations.” 

Jerry H. Fagen couldn’t agree more. 

“I have always admired how my father 

treats patients and employees with 

respect and his dedication to the needs 

of people and groups we serve,” he 

says. “I have always loved how open he 

is to growing and evolving the company 

into new and different directions. It 

creates a fun environment.” VM 

< Jerry H., Melissa, Brian, 

and Gerald A. Fagen 


13

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14 

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15

generations oF Family memBers enJoy hometown “digs” 

16 


a Father’s 

Legacy 

GBy Andrew Tallackson 

Glen Marshall passed away in 2003, leaving his four sons 

beholden to the legacy he achieved as the founder of 

G.E. Marshall Inc. What began with modest intentions 

in 1960 had then become one of northern Indiana’s leading 

excavating contractors. 

For Clint, Frank, Roger, and Ross Marshall, there was 

no question G.E. Marshall would continue. They grew up 

with it, toiled hard at it, and respected what their father 

achieved through it. So upon their father’s passing, the 

brothers carried on the company as partners, joined by 

family who not only supported them, but worked along 

side them as well. 

“It was a given that we were going to try to make dad’s 

legacy continue,” Frank Marshall, the company’s president, 

says. “It had all evolved over time. My father wanted to 

make sure we all got along well and worked together well. 

“We also knew we wanted this to continue, not just with 

the second generation, but if possible into the third and 

fourth generations as well.” 

Indeed, generations of family members are among the 

nearly 75 employees who’ve carved out a reputation 

for G.E. Marshall as an excavation and site-preparation 

company that emphasizes quality and safety. In addition 

to the four brothers, Glen’s grandsons – Adam Marshall, 

Daniel Marshall, and Louis Walker – are operating 

engineers, working in the field. His granddaughter, Jamie 

Marshall, is the office administrator. His daughter-in-law, 

Roberta Marshall, is the executive administrator. His sisterin-law, 

Marie Marshall, is the accountant. 

< Generations of Marshalls 

ensure the enduring legacy 

of patriarch Glen Marshall. 

The youngest generation arrives afterschool to work in 

the shop or office, which is the same location where Glen 

started the company – 1351 Joliet Road. The headquarters 

has expanded over the years to include an additional 

yard across the street from the original facility, and 

encompasses M5 Inc., a trucking subsidiary that offers 

transportation services linked to site work. 

Marie Marshall attributes the company’s longevity to its 

strong rapport with employees, as well as to the meaning 

it holds for each family member who works there. 

“From the time they were little, the boys (Glen’s sons), 

were interested in the equipment and the work here,” she 

says. “Being here was not something that was pushed 

on them. They were interested in it and in what their 

father was doing. The boys realized they had a wonderful 

opportunity to continue what their dad did. 

“That applies to the next generation, too. No one has been 

asked to work with the company. The ones who are here 

want to do this,” Marie adds. 

That’s true of Jamie Marshall, who worked for the 

company back in high school and returned during summer 

breaks from college. Soon after graduating, she found 

work elsewhere, but eventually returned to Valparaiso 

in 2008 to join G.E. Marshall full time as its office 

administrator. 

“I always thought about it, about coming back,” Jamie 

says. “It has its way of drawing you back because you 

realize how much this place means to you and your family. 

“It doesn’t matter who you are. It’s a great company to 

work for,” she explains. “It really means a lot to see this 

company continue and to be part of that progress.” VM 


17

chamBer Focus 

Discover solutions to your business needs, connect 

with potential customers, and meet the people behind 

Porter County’s thriving business community face to 

face. Over 150 exhibitors, like these, will introduce their 

newest and greatest products and services. 

chamBer network night 

thursday, october 17, 2013 

Porter county expo center 

4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. 

Chamber Network Night is the premier business-to-business 

networking event of the year dedicated to generating high-quality 

leads, learning from the brightest, and networking with the best. 

Presented by the Porter County Chamber Coalition: 

Chesterton/Duneland, Hebron, Kouts, Portage, and Valparaiso 

Chambers of Commerce. 

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Booth 117 

convenient locations 

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3500 S Calumet • Valparaiso 

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Booth 33 

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Booth 69 Booth 102 

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18 


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19

Business snaPshot 

Thrifty & Chic 

Address: 256 W Indiana Ave, Valparaiso 

Telephone: (219) 617-1998 

Management: Jane Schreiner, Kassy Denesuk, 

and Barb Pullins 

Chamber Member since: 2011 

Thrifty & Chic is a charming shop shared by three 

women caring for the earth by rescuing that which 

might be otherwise discarded. Vintage materials 

are used to make entirely new items for home, 

garden, offi ce, classroom, or gift giving by touching 

up, remaking, or repainting. Unique clothing, 

jewelry, purses, doorknobs, lamps, dishes, small 

pieces of furniture, greeting cards, and much more 

may be found on Fridays and Saturdays from 10:00 

a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 

Sundays from 12:00 

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20 


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Business Quarterly 

9191 Broadway | Merrillville, IN 46410 | t. 219.769.1313 | f. 219.769.6806 

156 Washington St. | Valparaiso, IN 46383 | t. 219.531.0134 | www.bcclegal.com 

Twice the 

1001 Sturdy Rd, Valparaiso 

462-0047 

3400 Calumet Ave, Valparaiso 

462-4381 

Free Prescription Delivery 

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Helping. Caring. Giving. Growing. 

22 


new memBer inVestors 

Welcome Members 

The Valpo Chamber welcomes Board-approved new members who joined during 

June, July, and August 2013. 

Interested in joining the largest and most active chamber in Northwest Indiana? 

Contact Danielle Oeding at (219) 462-1105 or oeding@valparaisochamber.org 

All addresses are in the 46383 zip code 

and phone numbers are 219 area code 

unless otherwise indicated. 

■ Arnell Chevy-Kia 

241 Melton Rd 

Burns Harbor, 46304 

787-9300 

Tom TenHove 

Auto Dealers-New, Used, & Specialty 

www.arnellchevykia.com 

■ Buffalo Wild Wings Grill & Bar 

212 E Lincolnway, Ste 101 

548-9464 

Karin Ragsdale 

Restaurants 

www.buffalowildwings.com 

■ Card Service One LLC 

8 N Washington 

916-1482 

John Daniels 

Credit Card Services 

■ C.L. Williams & Companies 

212 E Lincolnway 

462-1990 

Chuck Williams 

Real Estate-Commercial 

■ Carroll Productions 

3622 Creekside Dr 

242-2556 

Thomas Carroll 

Television/Media 

■ Closet Exchange, The 

2256 Morthland Dr, 46385 

476-1792 

Cindy Yover 

Apparel-Retail 

www.theclosetexchange.com 

■ Courts of NWI, The 

127 E US Hwy 6 

465-1111 

Mark Bengel 

Recreation 

Gymnastics/Cheerleading Instruction 

www.thecourtsofnwi.com 

■ Direct Door Hangers LLC 

1101 Cumberland 

242-2991 

India Gordon 

Advertising, Creative, & Marketing Services 

■ Enbridge Energy 

2804 Boilermaker Ct 

864-5466 

Jennifer Smith 

Utilities 

www.enbridge.com 

■ Harvest Circle Workshop, LLC 

252-9820 

Apryl Niksch 

Health & Wellness Products/Services 

■ Hungry, Inc. 

(773) 398-0613 

Phillip West 

Restaurants 

www.hungrytruckinc.com 

■ ibrow bar 

1608 Lincolnway, Ste C 

299-2622 

Angelica Dominguez 

Salons & Spas 

www.ibrow-bar.com 

■ Jarrett Real Estate 

506 Lincolnway 

462-6725 

Larry S. Jarrett 

Real Estate-Commercial & Residential 

www.jarrettrealestate.com 

■ LANAIR Group 

1158 W Lincolnway, 46385 

(877) 526-2471 

Scott Breckenridge 

Computer Networking, Products, Services, & Training 

http://lanairgroup.com 

■ Langer & Langer 

15 N Washington St 

464-3246 

Steven L. Langer, Esq. 

Attorneys & Legal Services 

www.langerandlanger.com 

■ Mercy Turner Events LLC 

112 Lincolnway 

983-2293 

Mercy Turner 

Bridal Products & Services 

■ Porterfield Family Chiropractic 

501 Silhavy Rd, Ste 104A 

718-9848 

Dr. Ryan Porterfi eld 

Chiropractors 

■ Preserve at Grande Oaks 

320 E 90th Dr 

Merrillville, 46410 

738-2322 

Jonathan Hicks 

Apartments 

www.igcre.com 

■ Retreat at Serendipity Province, The 

332 US Hwy 30, Ste D, 46385 

548-8089 

Tiffany Nickles 

Health & Wellness Products/Services 

www.serendipityprovince.com 

■ State Farm Insurance Agency Recruiting 

10275 W Higgins Rd, Ste 360 

Rosemont, IL 60018 

(847) 635-4252 

Raychel Yokem 

Employment-Human Resources & Staffing Services 

www.ryokem.sfagentcareers.com 

■ Stone Poured Factory, Inc. 

460 Bond Ave 

462-6712 

Andrea Witt 

Furniture 

www.stonepouredfactory.com 

■ SWEET LOU, That’s WHO! 

2913 S US Hwy 421 

Westville, 46391 

(800) 474-0735 

Lorette Young 

Caterers 

Restaurants 

http://louthatswho.com 

■ Valparaiso Aire Serv 

2202 Sturdy Rd 

707-8484 

Rennie Pavich 

Heating & Air Conditioning 

www.aireserv.com/valparaiso 

■ WildFlour 

210 E Lincolnway 

299-1785 

Abby Leetz 

Bakery 

www.wildflourvalpo.com 

■ Women in Bloom 

1704 Calumet Ave 

714-3854 

Angela Crossin 

Organizations 

www.womenbloominc.org 


23

around town 

Around Town 

is an important 

element to the local 

business coverage of 

Valparaiso Magazine. 

Submissions by 

chamber member 

businesses are 

given preference. 

Articles are business 

announcements – 

i.e. awards, new 

additions to staff 

or promotion of 

title, and change of 

business location. 

Sales promotions, 

advertisements, or 

coupon ads may not 

be accepted. Around 

Town submissions 

must be 130 words 

or less, are subject 

to approval, and may 

be edited. 

To submit Around Town entries, 

call (219) 462-1105 or send to 

info@valparaisochamber.org 

Attn: Editor. 

Anderson Insurance 

announces the addition 

of Ben Zimmer as a 

sales associate. Zimmer 

previously had 10 years 

experience in a similar 

position with Indiana Farm 

Bureau Insurance where 

he achieved the designation of “Premier 

Agent.” Zimmer will specialize in all lines of 

business and personal insurance, including 

Life and Group Health Insurance. For 

additional information, call (219) 462-5178. 

——————————————————— 

Burke Costanza & Carberry LLP 

Associate, Dana Rifai, was recently 

recognized as the “Up 

and Coming” 2013 

Influential Woman of 

the Year in Law at the 

2013 Influential Women 

of Northwest Indiana 

event. Rifai has initiated 

the firm’s immigration 

practice and has been successful in assisting 

clients with their immigration petitions. 

She also focuses her practice of law on 

business transactions, estate planning and 

probate. Rifai received her law degree from 

Valparaiso University School of Law, where 

she served as a member of the civil law clinic. 

She is the Vice President and a founding 

member of Emerge South Shore, a young 

professionals group. Rifai currently serves as 

a board member for the Legacy Foundation, 

the Avicenna Academy, and is active in the 

Crossroads and the Winfield Chambers 

of Commerce. She is a 2011 graduate 

of the Valparaiso Chamber Leadership 

Academy and a graduate of the 2012 FBI 

Citizens’ Academy. For additional information 

about Rifai, visit www.bcclegal.com. 

——————————————————— 

Jon A. Schmaltz, 

attorney for Burke 

Costanza & Carberry 

LLP, has been elected 

to the Purdue Alumni 

Association Board of 

Directors as an alumni 

director for the Indiana 

North district, comprising 

39 counties. Schmaltz will serve a three-year 

term. As an alumni director, he will represent 

the interests of Purdue Alumni Association 

members worldwide. He has remained active 

with Purdue University since his graduation 

in 1996, serving as a member of the Board 

of Directors as well as a Board Member 

and Past Treasurer of the Purdue Alumni 

Club of NWI. Founded in 1878, the 

Purdue Alumni Association serves 58,000 

members worldwide. 

—————————————————— 

Comfort Keepers, a non-medical inhome 

care company for seniors, is proud 

to announce that it has been recognized 

with “Best of Home Care,” “Provider of 

Choice,” and “Employer of Choice” awards. 

These distinctions are awarded to the top 50 

percent of agencies in client and employee 

satisfaction scores from Home Care Pulse, 

a company which measures client and 

employee satisfaction. Comfort Keepers is 

now ranked among a select few of the best 

agencies in the country. Offering a wide 

range of companion/caregiver services and 

licensed to provide personal care, Comfort 

Keepers’ employees are carefully selected, 

trained, background checked, drug screened 

and bonded. To learn more about Comfort 

Keepers or arrange for a free, no obligation 

assessment, call (877) 711-9800 or visit 

www.comfortkeepers.com/laporte-in. 

——————————————————— 

Hands of Health 

Professional Massage 

Therapy is pleased 

to welcome certified 

massage therapist 

Jennifer Thornton 

to its lineup of massage 

practitioners. Thornton 

has experience in all types of massage, and 

specializes in therapeutic massage and deep 

tissue massage. She is also experienced in 

Reflexology and Reiki Energy Work. Thornton 

is excited to work with people who suffer 

with chronic pain conditions as well as 

those who need time to relax and unwind, 

and is accepting new clients at this time. To 

schedule an appointment with Thornton or 

any other therapists, please call (219) 299- 

2628 or visit www.handsofhealth.com. 

——————————————————— 

Life Care Center of The Willows is 

excited to announce new leadership to make 

the patient experience the best it has ever 

been. Robert Chen, MD, 

facility medical director, 

specializes in internal 

medicine and is dedicated 

to the expert care of his 

patients, both in 

the skilled nursing >> 

24 


NEW. 

ThE CENTEr for WomEN’s hEalTh. jusT for you. 

When it comes to mammography, breast imaging, bone density testing, and other 

imaging needs, the team at our new Center for Women’s Health is dedicated to making 

your experience as convenient and comfortable as possible. We offer specialty 3D digital 

breast imaging technology, as well as early morning, evening and Saturday appointments at 

several locations. You’ll also have peace of mind knowing you will receive your results within 

twenty-four hours and that they’ll be interpreted by an experienced women’s imaging 

radiologist. It’s all to help your future remain as bright as possible. Walk-ins welcome for 

screening mammograms. Call 219-983-8335 to schedule your mammogram or bone 

density scan or, to learn more, visit us at porterhealth.com/women. 

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

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25

around town 

>> setting and at the office. His duties 

as medical director include overseeing 

quality care practices, policy and pathway 

development, and other administrative 

responsibilities. Tami Adams, facility 

permanent executive director, is an Indiana 

Licensed Nursing Home Administrator 

with a solid background in leadership at 

skilled nursing facilities. Dee Dee Colvin, 

director of nursing, has held positions of 

floor nurse, MDS (minimum data set) nurse, 

unit manager, assistant director of nursing, 

and case manager. In nursing leadership, 

Sabra Coons and Michelle Correy will serve 

as unit managers overseeing the long term care and short 

term rehabilitation units; developing policies and pathways 

under physician direction; quality outcomes; and overall 

nursing care. For more information about services at Life Care 

Center of The Willows, call (219) 464-4858. 

————————————————————————— 

Meeting Achievements, Inc. recently marked its 10th 

Anniversary of providing customers innovative meeting and 

event management. What began with the simple idea of 

providing their clients with a one-stop shop for all of their 

event and meeting management needs, today offers a wide 

range of services including event management, site 

selection/venue negotiation, food and beverage/AV/ 

speaker/exhibit & travel management, registration, and 

on-site staffing. For more information about services, 

visit www.meetingachievements.com. 

————————————————————————— 

Opportunity Enterprises (OE) 

recently named David Stupay as its new 

President/CEO. Stupay holds a Bachelor 

of Science Degree from Southeastern 

University in Business Management and 

a Master of Business Administration from 

North Park University and currently serves 

on the Board of Directors of the Lincoln Park Community 

Shelter and Coat Angels, and frequently advises other 

nonprofit agencies in the areas of finance, fundraising, and 

staff development. He and his wife Vanessa recently relocated 

to Valparaiso. For more information about OE’s programs and 

services, visit www.oppent.org. 

————————————————————————— 

Reins of Life, Inc. 

is happy to announce 

the addition of Colleen 

McNamara to its team. 

McNamara has been 

a PATH International 

Certified Therapeutic Riding 

Instructor for 18 years and 

holds a Master’s Degree 

in Exceptional Student 

Education and a Bachelor of Arts in Therapeutic Riding with an 

emphasis in Psycho-remedial Education. She has experience 

working with children and adults with a variety of cognitive and 

physical disabilities, and emotional/behavioral challenges. Her 

experience with horses is diverse, primarily hunter/jumper and 

dressage. For additional information about services at Reins of 

Life, visit www.reinsoflife.org. 

———————————————————————— 

Scannell Wealth Management is 

pleased to announce Pete Carlson 

has joined its team as a client service 

associate where he will focus his efforts 

on providing support and analysis 

services. Carlson earned a BA in 

Business & Commerce at 

Aurora University and is 

currently studying for his Series 

7 exam. For more information about Scannell 

Wealth Management services, call (219) 531-4941. 

———————————————————————— 

You’ve just had an accident! 

Don’t have a second, let us repair your vehicle. 

26 

Valparaiso Magazine | Fall 2013 

Chesterton Location 

219.926.8203 

Valparaiso Location 

219.462.0405 

www.mandscollision.com 

Proud member of the 

Valparaiso Chamber 

of Commerce

Senior Care Central (SCC) 

is pleased to announce the addition 

of Kenneth Easton, Jr. as the 

new Director of Faith-Communities 

Relations. Easton is a graduate of 

Liberty University and has a decade 

of experience as a youth and 

music/worship leader in the 

Northwest Indiana Community. 

He will serve as SCC’s liaison 

with faith communities who are seeking to help their 

older members age in place. 

———————————————————————— 

Dean Stolpe, Broker/Owner 

of Stolpe Real Estate, has 

been awarded the prestigious 

Certified Residential Specialist 

(CRS) Designation by the Council 

of Residential Specialists, the 

largest non-profit affiliate of the 

National Association of Realtors. 

Realtors who receive the CRS 

Designation have completed advanced courses and 

have demonstrated professional expertise in the field 

of residential real estate. Fewer than three percent of 

realtors nationwide have earned the credential. Home 

buyers and sellers can be assured that CRS Designees 

subscribe to the strict Realtor Code of Ethics, have 

access to the latest technology and are specialists in 

helping clients maximize profits and minimize costs 

when buying or selling a home. Stolpe is a member 

of Greater Northwest Indiana Association of Realtors 

and is celebrating his 30th year in business and 

Stolpe Real Estate is celebrating 15 years of service. 

For additional information about Stolpe Real Estate, 

visit www.stolpe.org. VM 

COMMERCIAL | CONSUMER | MORTGAGE 

219.926.8961 | 866.362.7511 

851 Indian Boundary Road 


27

memBer inVestor anniVersaries 

The Valpo Chamber is proud to showcase our members who have demonstrated 

an ongoing commitment to our organization and to the business community. We 

applaud and appreciate your dedication. The following anniversaries occurred in 

the fourth quarter of 2013. 

15 Years 

Staples, Inc. 

10 Years 

5 Years 

John Cicco’s Menswear, Inc. 

RE/MAX Commercial Property 

Solutions, LLC (Schuster) 

Bartholomew & Son Insurance 

Junior Achievement of Chicago 

Pioneer Products, Inc. 

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28 


Both Gail Strawsburg and her mother Anne Dilley became 

patients of Dr. Short at Obstetrical & Gynecological, Inc. back 

in 1988, when the average price for a gallon of gas was just 

91 cents, George Michael and Whitney Houston topped the pop 

music charts, and everyone on the dance floor was learning to 

“Walk like an Egyptian.” 

Anne says she recommends the practice to her friends because 

they “really care for their patients.” Gail seconds that, noting 

that they take the time to get to know you and “Dr. Short has an 

excellent bedside manner.” 

Four years ago, Gail’s daughter (and Anne’s granddaughter) 

Alyson Thomas became a patient as well. Although the price of 

gas has more than tripled and you can follow the top bootyshaken 

moves on YouTube, this sophomore at Indiana State 

says she trusts the doctors at Obstetrical & Gynecological 

Associates, Inc. to be professional and to do their jobs well. 

According to Alyson, the “staff is always friendly and create a 

good environment for the patients.” 

In the interest of full disclosure, Gail admits that she has a 

unique perspective, having worked in the billing department of 

the practice in the 1990’s. In fact, Dr. Short delivered her second 

daughter, Mallory Thomas, in 1997. Today Mallory is a junior at 

Valparaiso High School, and Gail says she will also become a 

patient of the practice soon. 

L - R: Mallory Thomas, Anne Dilley, 

Alyson Thomas, Gail Strawsburg 

Dr. Cheryl Short 

MD FACOG 

Dr. Crystal Strickland 

MD FACOG 

Dr. L. Jennifer Murphy 

MD FACOG 

Dr. Elizabeth Rutherford 

MD FACOG 

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit our website at www.weunderstandwomen.com or call our office today. 

Glendale Medical Center, 1101 E. Glendale Blvd., Suite 102, Valparaiso, IN 46383 

(219) 462-6144 (877) 462-6249 

www.valparaisochamber.org

ask an eXPert 

Data Breach 

Compliance: 

is your Business saFe? 

Let’s say someone steals your laptop, you lose a 

fl ash drive, your employee sends a wrong 

email, or your computer is hacked. What do 

you do now? 

Depending on how you answer this question 

determines the future longevity of your company. 

Eighty percent of the companies that have a 

breach fail to recover because they did not know 

the answer to this question. Failure to notify your 

clients, in a timely fashion, that their information 

has been breached, can cost you from $250 to 

$1,500,000 in fi nes. This does not include the 

lawsuits or the costs associated with notifi cation. 

Based on the 2013 Ponemon Institute Report, 

the average cost of a data breach is $5.4 

million. If you think data breaches only affect 

larger companies, think again. Sixtytwo 

percent of all breaches 

happen to smaller 

companies. 

What do you do? You 

need to have a plan in place 

before a breach occurs to 

protect you from all these 

fi nes and expenses. What type 

of private information you collect 

on your clients will determine 

which state and federal notifi cation 

laws with which you must comply. 

Currently, 46 states have laws in place that require 

companies that collect personal information to 

notify affected individuals if they have a breach 

in their computer system. All 46 laws vary, and 

the law that prevails depends upon the home 

address of the individual. Let’s say you have a 

breach, and your clients live in Illinois, Indiana, 

and Michigan. You would be required to comply 

with all three states’ notifi cation laws. Once you 

are aware of the breach, you need to notify the 

affected individual within a certain amount of time. 

Each state has a different time limit that ranges 

from fi ve to 45 days and some indicate “without 

unreasonable delay.” Handling a breach is a 

complicated and convoluted process. Generally 

speaking, you would have to perform the 

following steps: 

Hire a forensics investigator to determine 

if there was a breach and if records 

were affected. 

Hire a lawyer to determine which federal 

and state laws you need to comply with in 

addition to drafting the notification letters. 

Mail out the notification letters. 

How long will it take you to fi nd these specialists 

and negotiate favorable rates? 

If there is a delay, the Attorney 

General will be assessing civil 

monies penalties. 

How do you simplify the 

process and protect your 

company? Simply discuss 

this with your insurance 

professional. There 

are currently many 

insurance products 

in the marketplace 

that have developed a “Risk 

Management in a Can” approach. These 

insurance carriers will handle everything for you 

by simply making a phone call stating you had 

a breach. In addition to handling the notifi cation 

requirements in a timely manner, they also protect 

you from third party lawsuits. 

Cyber-crime is the fastest growing crime 

in the world and, without a plan in place, 

you could be jeopardizing your corporate assets. 

Discuss this exposure with your insurance 

professional to develop a holistic risk-management 

approach to protect your company. VM 

By John Immordino 

Anderson Insurance 

John Immordino, CIC, RPLU, 

CRM is a business associate of 

Anderson Insurance. He is also 

vice president of professional 

liability and brokerage at Arlington 

Roe, an insurance broker, where 

his focus is placing coverage for 

professional liability, management 

liability, and casualty risks. 

Immordino has been placing Cyber 

Liability insurance since 2004 

when only a few carriers offered 

the product. 

Immordino is a member of the 

Professional Liability Underwriter’s 

Society (PLUS) and sits on the 

Midwest Steering Committee. He 

sits on the Independent Insurance 

Agents of Illinois Educational 

Committee, the Agent’s Insurance 

Services Board and is a licensed 

property and casualty agent. He 

received his Certifi ed Insurance 

Counselor (CIC) designation in 

2006, his Registered Professional 

Liability Underwriter (RPLU) 

designation in 2008 and the 

Certifi ed Risk Manager (CRM) 

designation in 2010 and has 

spoken at various functions on the 

topics of Employment Practices, 

Directors and Offi cers Liability, 

Privacy and Network Security. 

Immordino lives in Valparaiso with 

his wife and four children. 


31

INDIANA YOUNG 

ENTREPRENEUR 

OF THE YEAR 

WADE BREITZKE 

PRESIDENT OF 27 ENTERTAINMENT 

AND WE CREATE MEDIA 

Since founding 27 Entertainment (in 2009) and We Create Media 

(in 2013), Wade Breitzke has been recognized for his passion 

and creativity by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Wade 

is honored for his entrepreneurial excellence in managing a team 

of growing artists in event, video and music production at his 

Valparaiso business. Centier Bank nominated Wade for his 

leadership and service to the community, including production 

for numerous non-profit agencies. 

756-BANK 

1-888-CENTIER 

CENTIER.COM 

MEMBER FDIC 

JONATHAN HILDEBRAND 

VICE PRESIDENT, BUSINESS BANKING

Business sPotlight 

Look for us at network night 

Booth #50! 

Better Business Bureau 

Serving Northern Indiana 

Connie Kann, area director 

219-227-8400 • www.bbb.org 

Every Child: Safe, Healthy, Happy 

Parent and Family Support 

& Child Advocacy Center 

Valparaiso • Michigan City 

(800) 897-0007 • www.dunebrook.org 

219-464-9871 

www.mybulkmail.com 

Nadine Philips 

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(219) 508-7070 

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Call Danielle Oeding, at the Valpo Chamber. (219) 462-1105 | oeding@valparaisochamber.org 


33

our Voice 

a healthy 

Business climate 

For all “seasons” 

CLOSING THOUGHTS 

By Donna Phelps 

Seasons on the Square 

Donna Phelps is the owner of 

Seasons on the Square where she 

actively supports the community 

by presenting fundraising fashion 

shows for organizations including 

Delta Theta Tau, FAWN, Altrussa 

International, Valparaiso YMCA, 

and Beta Gamma Upsilon. 

Phelps is on the Valpo Chamber 

Board of Directors and a member 

of its Ambassador Committee, a 

past board member of the Portage 

Chamber of Commerce, and past 

president of the Shoreview Business 

and Professional Organization. 

Phelps resides in Valparaiso with her 

husband Jack and their dog Sam. 

Their two grown children reside in 

Austin, Texas and Chicago, Illinois. 

VValparaiso is one of the most successful cities in 

Northwest Indiana, and downtown Valparaiso is 

one of the most vibrant. 

In 1990, my husband, Jack, and I chose 

Valparaiso for its small town atmosphere, 

great schools, and as a wonderful place to 

raise a family and be active members 

of a great community. In 2003, with 

Jack as my mentor, we invested in the 

community by purchasing Seasons on 

the Square. Since then, Seasons has 

become an anchor retailer specializing in 

contemporary casual to cocktail clothing, 

as well as accessories for women. As 

a businesswoman and a resident, I am proud to 

be involved in this thriving city, vibrant downtown 

and friendly community. 

Through the years, I have observed many 

positive changes throughout the city and, 

most dramatically, in the downtown area. The 

revitalization of the downtown business district 

was required to grow Valparaiso. While the 

outlying areas expanded and became the 

location of choice for new businesses, it became 

even more necessary to enhance our downtown. 

City leaders had the foresight to invest in 

downtown improvements to create a healthier 

business climate. Through projects such as 

the building façade program, updated lighting, 

improved sidewalks, and contemporary signage, 

Valparaiso has become a destination for visitors 

and a very desirable community in which to shop, 

dine, relax, be entertained, and overall enjoy. 

One business cannot be all things to all people 

– but it can try! A business like ours has to 

evolve and grow, even while our product remains 

classic. Since we are conveniently located in the 

heart of downtown, we have a responsibility to 

offer personalized service, unique merchandise 

and a great shopping experience, all in 

keeping with the community’s quality of 

life. Customer-focused programs, like our 

“Seasons to Go’s” private shopping and 

convenient after hours appointments, also 

support a good business climate. 

Business participation in downtown activities 

contributes to the success of all downtown 

businesses. One of our favorite annual events 

is “Hollydays,” a family-friendly evening in early 

December to celebrate the upcoming holiday 

season. Our store, like many, entertains its 

visitors with refreshments and music. We offer a 

unique live mannequin window fashion showcase 

that can be enjoyed by all passing by. 

Valparaiso is a charitable community and 

succeeds through the efforts of generous 

citizens and business-owners alike. Our store, 

for example, makes its windows available for 

charities and non-profi ts to advertise their 

fundraising activities. We are also recognized 

for charitable giving by being involved in several 

annual fundraising fashion shows. 

When I opened Seasons on the Square, 

I immediately joined the Valpo Chamber. I 

recognized the important role that an effective 

Chamber of Commerce plays in the success of 

the business community it serves. Valparaiso 

is fortunate to have a very active Chamber 

– the best in the state of Indiana! From its 

competent staff to its more than 700 members, 

the organization strives to support the good 

business climate. 

I am proud to serve on the Valpo Chamber 

board, participate in the community, represent 

business ownership, and actively help make 

Valparaiso one of the best cities in Indiana. VM 

34 


Convenient 

HOURS! 

Monday - Saturday 8 am-8 pm 

VALPARAISO 

Located at East Gate Plaza on the north side of LaPorte Avenue 

Look for thE CLoCk towEr 

2307 LaPorte Avenue, Suite 8 

(219) 476-8855 

Caring, convenient medical 

treatment for patients of all ages 

n fever 

n sprains and strains 

n sore throats and 

earaches 

n mild asthma attacks 

n nausea 

n diarrhea 

n vomiting 

n wound repair 

n rashes 

n minor allergic 

reactions 

n flu-like symptoms 

n flu shots 

n tetanus 

immunizations 

n colds 

n respiratory 

infections 

n sports injuries 

...and more. 

All Franciscan WorkingWell services 

are available at this location 

Monday through Saturday 

8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

Search FranciscanNWI 

franciscanExpressCare.org

COvEREd! 

WE’vE GOT yOuR CORPORATE WEllNEss NEEds COvEREd. 

The Porter Regional Hospital Health At Work program offers a full suite of job-related medical services. Our 

goal is to help prevent and reduce workplace illnesses and injuries and to avoid lost-time accidents, and 

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

contributes to a healthy bottom line. To learn why more employers are choosing Porter Regional 

Hospital’s Health At Work program, or to schedule a consult, call 219-263-7200. 

• Workers’ compensation coordination • Occupational medicine services 

• Preventive health and wellness services • General health service coordination 

• Personalized health coaching with certified nurse health coaches 

NOW OPEN 

Health At Work Clinic 

809 LaPorte Avenue, Valparaiso 

7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. U.S. Hwy. 6 at SR 49 • Valparaiso 

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

fall 2013

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