Cooperative economic-development efforts are bearing fruit. by Laurie Wink Recent ribbon cuttings at manufacturing facilities across the region are signaling an economic renaissance in what was once considered the rustbelt. Key economic development professionals, business leaders and elected officials at local, state and federal levels are joining forces–across affiliations and party lines–to promote the region …
More and more people cashing in on the benefits of clean energy. by Michael Puente In 2007, TJ Kanczuzewski had an idea while working for his dad’s 2-year-old company, Inovateus Development. The South Bend based company deals with small commercial and residential developments with a sustainability focus, including the use of solar energy. “My father, …
by Lesly Bailey ‘Tis the season to start holiday shopping! This year’s executive gift guide spotlights small businesses throughout the region and the unique products and services only they could offer. With Small Business Saturday on Nov. 26, mark your calendars to shop local and help the entrepreneurial community continue to flourish. For Her For …
Leader of Strack & Van Til started as a stock boy and bagger. by Barbara Eastman One of Jeff Strack’s fondest childhood memories is going to visit the grocery store founded in 1959 by his German-born grandfather, Ernie Strack, and his partner, Nick Van Til. Jeff’s dad worked in the business and started bringing Jeff …
Furniture is ‘functional art on a human scale.’ by Barbara Eastman Dust & Ashes Productions Inc. is a Valparaiso-based custom furniture and home accessories company owned by Vincent and Jessie Leman. They founded the company in 2005, before they were married, and have spent the last 11 years growing the business. Growing up on a …
A fast rebuild for the IU Northwest women’s basketball program. By Ben Smith History and home. That’s what Nicki Monahan saw when Ryan Shelton came calling. She was a basketball star at Portage High School who was a self-professed “family kind of gal” and so, when she was recruited by Shelton, the women’s basketball coach …
It’s a great marketing tool, but it’s also a source of significant risk. For most companies, social media is a cheap, effective marketing tool, which is easy to access, manipulate and maintain. But social media traits that benefit companies can also expose them to a myriad of legal risks. * Ensuring Your Company Owns and …
Innovators will ensure a prosperous third century for Indiana. Governor Mike Pence and Lieutenant Governor Eric Holcomb sent a clear message on Indiana’s commitment to strengthening and accelerating Hoosier innovation earlier this summer. When they announced the state’s plan to invest $1 billion in Hoosier innovation and entrepreneurship over the next 10 years, they showcased …
Noteworthy News Bits from Around the Region by Michelle M. Searer BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS Donald J. Rapley, president and general manager of Ozinga’s Indiana region, has been named the president of the Indiana Ready Mixed Concrete Association (IRMCA). The non-profit organization is dedicated to expanding the use of ready mix concrete via education, training, promotion and …
Enterprising women at the helm. Advice from women leaders who cleared the glass ceiling. by Jerry Davich Lynne Rehmel’s career wheels first hit the road 35 years ago. She has been involved in every aspect of the transportation business, from customer service and sales to safety director, terminal supervisor and operations manager. “As a new …
