The past few months haven’t been easy. This summer brought storms that tested infrastructure, property, and basics like food, water and power. Suddenly, politics and bottom lines weren’t as important as helping neighbors, cleaning up and restoring life to normal.
That process will take time as grants, government programs, donations and insurance claims are awarded and received.
But one thing happened quickly, the Northwest Indiana community stepped up to help cut down trees, provide food and shelter, and worked together to make sure everyone was safe. The outpouring of monetary and other donations was overwhelming and inspiring.
This issue was in production during the aftermath of the storm. Reporters were calling on sources for their stories and collecting photos for these pages. Some of our writers went without power, too. We thank them and the many sources in this issue’s stories for participating despite hardships.
This issue is packed with good news, starting with young lawyer Stefan May who recently graduated from Purdue Global Law School. He is leading the charge against Indiana’s lawyer shortage and proving that students educated online can pass the bar exam.
Northwest Indiana is known as the country’s steel leader, but it also is home to many businesses that support the industry. From warehousing to transportation, these companies contribute jobs and economic prosperity to their communities.
We also looked into the tax policies that compel companies like Uesco to move to the Region. These tax tips also might apply to businesses that already call Northwest and North Central Indiana home.
Nonprofits play a big role in helping residents who often feel marginalized, but they also offer jobs for 11% of all paid employment in the Region. The creative economy creates jobs too, and a return on investment that is tangible in event participation and other factors. Both drive economic growth, and create communities where employees want to live, work and play.
Some projects are once-in-a-lifetime, and Envel Facade in South Bend completed one of them. They used their proprietary blend of concrete to build the letters that top the Obama center’s building.
Michael Heinold started a Seniors Helping Seniors franchise in Northwest Indiana. And the Gary Literacy Coalition makes reading a priority.
Finally, Violet Sistovaris, a retired NiSource executive, shares how a long-ago donation helped her grandchild in the Franciscan Health Crown Point NICU.
Enjoy this issue!
— Heather Pfundstein, publisher/editor
Read more stories from the current issue of Northwest Indiana Business Magazine.
Giving that returns favor
Building city of readers
Project beyond imagination
Called home for seniors
Create economy
Purpose meets prosperity
Keys to Hoosier tax haven
Steel support system
Growing legal opportunities
