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Trends in Global Logistics & Trade Lecture A reception at the Lubeznik Center on August 2nd provided networking opportunities for local industrial and commercial real estate agents. On August 3rd, participants enjoyed golf, charter fishing, lunch at the Blue Chip Casino Hotel and Conference Center, a presentation and tour of properties, and new marketing material. "Real estate brokers are the single best source for external industrial location prospects," said John Regetz, Executive Director of the Michigan City Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC). “Events such as our Brokers Excursion effectively generate economic development prospects by connecting the right people with the right opportunities.” "Our recreational attractions, quality industrial sites and great business climate drew these site selectors to our community," said Tim Gropp, Executive Director of the Greater La Porte Economic Development Corporation (GLEDC). “We have already received several call-backs on properties and opportunities.” Local economic development officials assisted with guiding the participants during activities: Regetz, Gropp, La Porte Mayor Leigh Morris; Michigan City Mayor Charles Oberlie; La Porte County Council President, Jerry Cooley; Tom Edwards, Horizon Bank and Chairman of MCEDC; Jeff Jones, PNC and MCEDC Vice Chairman; Don Babcock, NIPSCO, MCEDC Board Member and Chair, Northwest Indiana Forum ED Committee; Tim Bietry, Michigan City Area Chamber of Commerce and MCEDC Board Member; Mike Arnett, First Source Bank and Chairman Leaf; Steve Kring, La Porte Horizon Bank and La Porte Economic Development Commission; Matt Reardon, La Porte County Economic Development Consultant; Kevin Kieft, MCEDC Business Development Manager; Bert Cook, GLEDC Project Manager; and Diane Thalmann, NIPSCO Economic Development Manager. La Porte County Council President Jerry Cooley acknowledged the value of the countywide participation as initiated by LaPorteCounty.Biz. “The county is working together to bring in and retain the right kind of businesses,” he said. “We’re recognizing that what is good for the county is good for our cities.” LaPorteCounty.Biz is the marketing collaboration between La Porte County Government, the Michigan City Economic Development Corporation, the Greater La Porte Economic Development Corporation, the La Porte County Convention and Visitors Bureau, and Purdue North Central. The La Porte County Convention and Visitors Bureau and the La Porte County Redevelopment Commission helped fund and organize the event. Contact: Tim Gropp, Executive Director Vanair Manufacturing Begins Construction Michigan City August 17, 2007 - At a ground breaking ceremony today Vanair Manufacturing, Incorporated began construction of its new, 60,000 square foot, manufacturing plant. Greg and Ralph Kokot, Kokot Brothers Development owners were on hand with officials from La Porte County, Michigan City and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDA) to celebrate. Vanair will manufacture vehicle-mounted air compressors and generators in the facility. Greg Kokot President of Vanair said “We’re certainly very excited about the move to the Michigan City area, and this new direction and location will give Vanair the opportunity to grow and expand our business. Assistance from the Michigan City Economic Development Corporation, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, and the La Porte County Economic Development team made the move to Indiana a much easier one for our company.”
Council President Jerry Cooley said Vanair is committed to retaining and creating some 60 new jobs paying above average wages over the next three years. "It's a great opportunity for the county to get more jobs," Cooley said. "The property tax for the parcel is currently $250 a year. When you figure the gain in the county income tax, we'll make up in one week what we get in property tax for one year." The start of construction marks an investment of 2.6 million dollars in building and machinery in the county. The new plant will increase production by doubling its current space and reconfiguring process flow. Michigan City Mayor Charles Oberlie said, “The Vanair project is an example of what can happen when we work together as a county. As any good prospect should do, Vanair representatives considered several options, some in our city and some in the county. Everyone involved can be proud of the coordinated effort that resulted in this new industrial development.” Ralph Kokot, CEO of Vanair Manufacturing, said the economic incentives offered to move his company from Michigan to LaPorte County made the project possible. LaPorte County is assisting Vanair with its expansion with tax abatement, industrial development bond financing and a loan. The IEDC is assisting with tax credits and training funds. Kokot said the company plans to actively recruit new employees from LaPorte County. "We will be looking for a myriad of employees, from professional engineers to assembly-line laborers - a cross-section of skill sets," he said. "Creating an environment that encourages growth is essential to Indiana’s economic success,” said Nathan Feltman, Indiana Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. “Vanair's commitment to Indiana is yet another indication that Indiana is becoming one of the locations of choice for businesses around the world." Vanair Manufacturing has been at its present location on U.S. 12 just west of New Buffalo since it was founded in 1972. Kokot bought the company in 1997. He said the 48-employee company manufactures vehicle-mounted air compressors and its major market is utility companies. Vanair Moving To Michigan City, Bringing Jobs After an extensive search, Vanair Manufacturing Inc., which is currently located in Michigan, will move to a new site and plans to construct a building twice as large in the Michigan City area of LaPorte County, bringing with it new jobs. Greg Kokot of Vanair said “We’re certainly very excited about the move to the Michigan City area, and this new direction and location will give Vanair the opportunity to grow and expand our business. Working with the Michigan City Economic Development Corporation, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, and the LaPorte County Economic Development team to put together an attractive incentive package made the decision to move to Indiana a much easier one for our company.” The LaPorte County Council approved a request from Kokot Brothers Development LLC for an economic revitalization area and tax abatement to develop a 60,000-square-foot building on a former farm on County Road 300 North in Coolspring Township, just south of Michigan City. Council President Jerry Cooley said Vanair is committed to retaining and creating some 60 new jobs paying $21 an hour over the next three years. "It's a great opportunity for the county to get more jobs," Cooley said. "The property tax (for the parcel) is $250 a year. When you figure the gain in the county income tax, we'll make up in one week what we get in property tax for one year." Michigan City Mayor Charles Oberlie said, “The Vanair project is an example of what can happen when we work together as a county. As any good prospect should do, Vanair representatives considered several options, some in our city and some in the county. John Regetz and Matt Reardon were able to provide the proper answers that resulted in the Vanair commitment to build in LaPorte County. Everyone involved can be proud of the coordinated effort that resulted in this new industrial development.” Ralph Kokot, owner and chief executive officer of Vanair Manufacturing, said he appreciates the economic incentives offered to move his company from Michigan to LaPorte County. He said the company plans to actively recruit new employees from LaPorte County. "We will be looking for a myriad of employees, from professional engineers to assembly-line laborers - a cross-section of skill sets," Kokot said. The economic revitalization area, and the tax abatement were approved on March 26th at the County Council meeting, Kokot said he plans to break ground sometime between mid-April and May 1. He said he has talked with three LaPorte County contractors about constructing the new building and expects to make a decision within a month. Vanair Manufacturing has been at its present location on U.S. 12 just west of New Buffalo since it was founded in 1972. Kokot bought the company in 1997. He said the 44-employee company manufactures vehicle-mounted air compressors and its major market is utility companies. For more information, contact Kevin Kieft at 219-873-1211. Hotel Plans Unveiled An artist's rendering of its new 22-story hotel was unveiled by Blue Chip Casino on Tuesday. The $130 million project was announced last October during Boyd Gaming's third quarter financial conference with investors. The hotel will connect to the pavilion with a new entrance, and it will dramatically change not only the appearance of the Blue Chip property, but the skyline of Michigan City as well. The hotel will be positioned north of the rest of the casino complex. Rob Stillwell, vice president of corporate communications for Boyd Gaming, Blue Chip's parent company, said construction on the hotel is expected to begin in the first quarter of this year. The hotel will include 300 guest rooms, a spa and fitness center, additional meeting and event space, restaurants and night clubs. “A key element of the expansion will be a dramatic 22-story hotel tower that will be among the most visible structures in the area,” said Stillwell. Blue Chip currently operates an eight-story, 184-room hotel on its property. At 22 stories, the hotel will be one of the tallest buildings in northern Indiana. It will be twice as tall as the 11-story Dunescape condominiums on the city's lakefront, which is now the city's tallest occupied building. The next tallest buildings in the city are the Warren Building and the Marquette Mall Office Building, both seven stories tall. The only structures in the city taller than the planned hotel is the 356-foot NIPSCO cooling tower and the power plant's 500-foot smokestack. The only building in the area that is taller than the planned hotel is the 25-story City Centre Chase Tower in downtown South Bend. That building includes 10 floors of office space, a 176-room Holiday Inn and a 227-space enclosed parking garage. “The opening of Blue Chip's new casino and pavilion ... created significant new demand and the company believes that additional hotel rooms and attractions will continue to broaden the property's appeal,” said Stillwell on Tuesday. Last January, Blue Chip opened a new, $170 million casino boat that more than doubled the amount of gaming space from the company's original riverboat that had operated for nearly a decade. He said the hotel is scheduled to open in late 2008. Last week, Boyd Gaming reported that its central region, which includes Blue Chip, posted $220.9 million in net revenue for the fourth quarter of 2006, up from $212.2 million in 2005. “In Michigan City, where we have successfully elevated the Blue Chip brand with last year's expansion, our new project will help us take this property to the next level,” said Bill Boyd, chairman and chief executive officer during last week's financial report. The News Dispatch - Staff Reports February 28, 2007
PARTNERSHIP
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMUNITY INVESTMENT CAMPAIGN Diamond Manufacturing Announces Expansion Project Michigan City, IN (March 2, 2006) - Diamond Manufacturing Company - North America’s largest perforator of sheet, coil and tubular steel used throughout the automotive industry, announced today the expansion of its Michigan City, Indiana, manufacturing facility. DAGE-MTI RECEIVES AWARD FROM GOVERNOR Michigan City, IN (November 9, 2005) - Governor Mitch Daniels honored a long standing Michigan City company today at the Capitol. John and Peggy Moore, Owners of Dage-MTI received the Governor’s Half Century Business Award in recognition of the company’s 50 successful years of operation and deep involvement in this community. Dage-MTI is a leader in manufacturing analog and digital video cameras and monitors for microscopy applications by science, industry and government. Teaching and research universities attach the cameras to microscopes to aid in cell analysis, including brain tissue testing. Soeka attends Techpoint Technology Summit Michigan City, Indiana (November 8, 2005) - Ted A. Soeka, Business Development Manager for the Michigan City Economic Development Corporation, recently attended Techpoint Technology Summit #8- the largest gathering of our state’s diverse technology community in Indianapolis, on November 1, 2005. Michigan City Economic Development Corporation Announces New Executive Director Michigan City, Indiana (September 14, 2005) –
The Michigan City Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) has completed its search for an Executive Director.
John G. Regetz of Champaign, Illinois has been selected to fill the vacancy of former Director, Tony Rodriguez, who left the position in June. Regetz was most recently Economic Development Director for the City of Urbana, Illinois. He will begin his duties with the MCEDC on
September 19th. Rodriguez Accepts New Position Michigan City, Indiana (May 6, 2004) – Tony Rodriguez, Executive Director of the Michigan City Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC), tendered his resignation from the MCEDC effective May 31st. He has accepted the position as President of the Portage, Indiana based Regional Development Company (RDC) and will be responsible for delivering the U.S. Small Business Administration’s 504 Loan Program in Northern Indiana, Southwest Michigan and Illinois. He will continue to reside in Long Beach. Rodriguez has been the MCEDC Executive Director since 1996, when the organization was formed. Since that time, he has managed the overall daily economic development activities focusing on business attraction and business retention and expansion efforts in the greater Michigan City area. "Tony has been leading our economic development program since we (MCEDC) began operations,” stated Mayor Oberlie, MCEDC Chairman. The Mayor continued, "Throughout his almost ten years of service, he has been an invaluable asset to our economic development team and has been responsible for many successes despite the downturn in the national economy these past few years. On behalf of the MCEDC board of directors, we will miss him and wish him well in his new position.” The MCEDC Executive Committee has begun the process of finding a replacement for the position and has engaged the services of Bob Schaefer of Community Dynamics, Inc. to assist the organization during this transition period. "Business as usual”, the Mayor stated. "Bob is a seasoned economic development veteran. He will be extremely helpful during this transition, in continuing to address and implement the day to day activities of the MCEDC, including the continued interaction with the Greater La Porte Economic Development Corporation (GLEDC) and the County.” Schaefer will be working with MCEDC Development Director, Kevin Kieft and Office Administrator, Nancy Heald. County Wide Officials Announce Launch of Hi Tech Company LaPorte County, Indiana (April 4, 2005) Marlow Harmon, President of the County Commissioners and John Jones, President of the County Council, were joined today by Mayor Charles Oberlie, City of Michigan City, Mayor Leigh Morris, City of LaPorte, Purdue North Central Chancellor James Dworkin and representatives from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, the Michigan City Economic Development Corporation and the Greater LaPorte Economic Development Corporation in announcing the start up of Indiana Melting & Manufacturing LLC (IMM) in LaPorte County. RELATED NEWS - The Show - 4/10/2005 - Inside Indiana Business with Gerry Dick Archives Mayor Oberlie and Local Officials Announce Major Expansion of Local Business and 100 New Jobs Michigan City, Indiana (October 14, 2004) – Mayor Chuck Oberlie was joined today by the Indiana Department of Commerce and several local governmental officials to announce the major facility expansion and the creation of 100 new jobs at Geberit Manufacturing. Mayor Chuck Oberlie said: "Through the cooperation and combined efforts of five local governmental entities and the Indiana Department of Commerce, Geberit will not only be staying in Michigan City, but Geberit will be investing over $5 million to expand their current facility to four times its current size and triple its current workforce. As successful companies grow their business and become involved in mergers with other businesses, significant decisions often face the company’s leaders. And that was the case with one of our most successful local companies: Geberit Manufacturing. Geberit’s recent sustained success has led to continued growth and expansion, leading to a final decision on significant expansion in Michigan City. While other cities and sites competed extremely hard to attract Geberit, our local officials and Economic Development team never wavered in our commitment to retain Geberit Manufacturing in Michigan City. We are grateful and appreciative that the leadership team at Geberit Manufacturing shares our vision of Michigan City as a strong, vibrant community with the type of skilled, hard working and dedicated citizenry that is essential for success in today’s globally competitive marketplace.” Michigan City Economic Development Director Tony Rodriguez said: "I would like to applaud the vision and commitment of all of the critical stakeholders that have assisted our economic development team in Geberit Chicago Faucets’ expansion in making Michigan City and LaPorte County the best place to do business in the Midwest. This expansion goes along way in continuing the diversification of the tax and living wage job base during these times of global competition.” LaPorte County Commission President Bill Hager said: "I am pleased to be here representing the citizens of LaPorte County to congratulate Geberit Manufacturing on their decision to stay in the best place to do business: LaPorte County, Indiana. We have the finest workforce around and the strong work ethic and dedication of LaPorte County residents can only lead to continued success for Geberit.” Michigan City Urban Enterprise Association President Kevin Kieft said: "In order for residents of the Urban Enterprise Zone to be able to find decent paying jobs to support their families, we must have companies like Geberit Manufacturing who are both willing and able to invest in their facilities and create more job opportunities for local residents. To ensure that our UEA residents can share in the prosperity created by Geberit’s success, the UEA Employment Rebate Program provides a direct incentive to Geberit for UEA residents to be included in this significant workforce expansion.” LaPorte County Solid Waste District Executive Director Lynn Waters said: We applaud Geberit Manufacturing’s commitment to help reduce the amount material entering the solid waste stream by using recycled material products in its facility expansion. The Sustainable Advanced Manufacturing Fund grant awarded to Geberit has a two-fold benefit: increase the use of recycled materials in new construction and support significant job creation.” Geberit Announces Expansion Michigan City, Indiana (October 14, 2004) - The Geberit Manufacturing Division of The Chicago Faucet Company is pleased to announce its plans to expand the current manufacturing facility in Michigan City by 88,000 square feet. Geberit is a manufacturer of decorative plumbing products such as bath drains, kitchen strainers, decorative lavatory traps, and pressure vessels for both in wall and floor mounted toilets, as well as, commercial plumbing products such as electronic flush valves and electronic faucets. The Chicago Faucet Company is the largest manufacturer of commercial faucets in the United States. The company is a member of Geberit International AG headquartered in Jona Switzerland. Geberit has been an active member of the Michigan City community for 28 years and currently employs approximately 45 people at this location. The expansion will allow the company to consolidate multiple leased facilities located in Michigan City into one building, relocate sub assembly production from a contract manufacture in Kentucky to Michigan City, and allow for cross docking and distribution of the company’s diverse product line. Geberit is hopeful; the expansion will increase employment by at least 100 new positions over the next 4 years. More information on the company can be found at its web site, www.chicagofaucets.com. KTR Unveils New Machine Shop Michigan City, Indiana (August 4, 2004) – KTR Corporation at 122 Anchor Road, Michigan City announces the unveiling of a new machine shop in their program of expansion to handle significant growth. KTR is a major global supplier of mechanical couplings and other power transmission components for machinery. The new machine shop, relocated in a second building acquired in 1999, will include new CNC machine tools and provide space for more state-of-the-art machining and quality inspection equipment planned for installation later this year. The shop move will increase warehouse as well as office space in the original facility. "The tax abatement provided by Michigan City has assisted KTR in justifying the expansion of our USA manufacturing capacity during a time when manufacturing has been leaving the US due to competitive pressure. Our excellent work force, working with state of the art machinery, is providing high quality and technically superior products, which has allowed us to gain market share. The support of Mayor Chuck Oberlie, Tony Rodriguez, Michigan City Economic Development Corporation, Tim Bietry, Chamber President and the City Council has been a strong positive for us to expand our commitment to the local community,” said Bob Garrelts, Controller of the KTR Corporation. As a result of the corporation’s growth and capital investment during the last 6 months KTR has increased employment over 20% and expect to continue that trend. "Small Business is truly the backbone of the new American economy and we are elated that KTR has reiterated its commitment to Michigan City through this major reinvestment,” stated Tony Rodriguez, Executive Director of the Michigan City Economic Development Corporation. Michigan City Economic Development Corporation Names New Business Development Manager Michigan City, Indiana (August 9, 2004) – The Michigan City Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) announces the staffing addition of Ted A. Soeka as Business Development Manager. Soeka of Munster, Indiana, will begin his duties effective September 1, 2004, and will report to MCEDC Executive Director Tony Rodriguez. Soeka graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from Southern Illinois University’s School of Engineering and Technology. He holds a Master of Arts degree in Organizational Communication from Purdue University Calumet. Soeka most recently served as director of the Manufacturing Engineering Technology Services (METS) Resource Center at Purdue University Calumet. He spent three years as regional director of manufacturing and technology services for the Indiana Business Modernization and Technology Corporation providing consulting services to various manufacturing companies in Northwest Indiana. Prior to that, Soeka spent 6 years with the Hughes Aircraft Company as a manufacturing specialist and manufacturing project manager. "The addition of Ted to our MCEDC staff is the second major accomplishment of the operational goals set by the board in our 2003 strategic plan. The first was relocating our offices in November 2003 from the basement of City Hall to our present location at Two Cadence Park Plaza,” stated Tony Rodriguez. As Business Development Manager, Soeka will be responsible for the development and implementation of the MCEDC marketing plan, coordination of new business inquiries, organization of the various databases including the new state of the art Geographic Information System (GIS) program, and management of the existing business retention program. "On behalf of the MCEDC board of directors, we are thrilled to have Ted on board with his extensive business experience and economic development background,” stated MCEDC chairman Terry Hearst. "After reviewing over 70 resumes, Ted was the obvious choice. With his addition, the MCEDC is better positioned to address and handle the ever increasing amount of economic development initiatives, activities and programs with which it is involved,” said Rodriguez. Michigan City Economic Development Announces the Graduation of NxLevel Small Business Entrepreneurship Training Program Participants Michigan City, Indiana (July 29, 2004) – Recently the Michigan City Economic Development Corporation is proudly announced the graduation of participants in the 2004 NxLevel Small Business Entrepreneurship Training Program. The Western Entrepreneurial Network at the University of Colorado at Denver developed the Nxlevel Entrepreneurial Training Program under a grant from the UIS West Foundation. The training materials and curriculum are based on the feedback from over 4,000 entrepreneurs in 12 states who have taken entrepreneurial courses over the past two years. NxLevel is a not-for-profit training network whose mission is to help entrepreneurs reach the next level of success. "The NxLevel course is one that improved the success rate of small business start-ups and fledgling small businesses by 80 percent, substantially increasing the odds that the company will become a thriving sustainable small business,” said Tony Rodriguez, Executive Director of the Michigan City Economic Development Corporation. The NxLevel Entrepreneurial Program consists of 12 sessions designed to help entrepreneurs learn the skills needed to create, develop, and strengthen successful business ventures. The course includes hands-on training in business planning, organization and management, marketing, identifying opportunities, understanding finances, budgeting, objectives, and funding. Experienced business educators, networking opportunities with local business leaders, comprehensive textbook and resource guides, as well as one-on-one business counseling and support brought the participants to the finish line where they left NxLevel with a clear business plan and strategy blueprint. "NxLevel was a good program that gave me a general overview of business concepts to enhance my understanding of the business world,” said Jill Grabowski, a 2004 NxLevel graduate. The tuition cost $150 and the participants attended sessions given every Thursday night from six to nine at the Blue Chip Casino for 12 weeks. The spring 2004 graduates are: Alan Barth, Cheryl A. Bryant, Mark Burton, Tremayne Cobb, Ann Dahm, Judy Dodge, Mary Dombkowski, Sel Dunlap, Ionie Fly, Ryan Fly, Ronald Gaston, Jill Grabowski, Howard Jones, Brett A. Kelley Sr., Brandon Lee, Keith Lemmer, Karen Lemons, Randy Radke, Ruth Radke, Lynnette Smith, and Angela K. Starks. NxLevel was sponsored by the Michigan City Economic Development Corporation, Mayor Chuck Oberlie, the Michigan City Area Chamber of Commerce, the Michigan City News-Dispatch, the Northwest Indiana Small Business Development Center, Pubco Printing, and the Blue Chip Casino and Hotel. If you are interested in signing up for the fall session of NxLevel please contact: The Small Business Development Office 1.219.762.1696 Michigan City’s Technology Taskforce Kicks off Broadband Deployment Strategy in Conjunction with InfoComm Systems of Lafayette, IN Michigan City, Indiana (July 8, 2004) – The Michigan City Economic Development Corporation’s Technology Taskforce today announced that they will accept and move forward with the MetroMorphosis proposal, effective July 9, 2004. MetroMorphosis, an InfoComm Systems service, provides communities throughout the Midwest with the tools to promote investment in the neighboring telecommunications market as well as influence telecommunications to endorse and support economic development opportunities. "MetroMorphosis is a great enhancement for Michigan City, and offers immense opportunity for community competitiveness, as well as ultimate success in economic development ventures,” said Chuck Oberlie, Mayor of Michigan City. InfoComm Systems submitted the proposal of the Municipal Telecommunications Strategic Plan to the Michigan City Economic Development’s Technology Taskforce on March 11, 2004. The strategic plan consists of 4 key components. MetroMorphosis will give a current state assessment, process a desired state assessment/development, analyze gaps and provide recommendations, as well as prepare a migration plan. The current state component of MetroMorphosis will provide a plane for both consultants and coordinators of municipal telecommunications projects. The information gathered will allow project coordinators to recognize the impact of telecommunications on the City of Michigan City, as well as assess current processes to generate economic development opportunities. For consultants, the information obtained will characterize the current telecommunications environment in Michigan City and its ability to support on-going initiatives and opportunities. The desired state element of MetroMorphosis will portray an optimal telecommunications environment in Michigan City. A baseline will be set to define the principal telecommunications, administrative support, and regulatory environment. "The school district has much to offer as a partner in this important and necessary endeavor. Collaborating with business and government, the school district is in position to share its fiber optic infrastructure with the greater community. The fact that the Michigan City Area Schools can share its network, to promote a connected community with telecommunications that will be an asset for the economic development and vitality of our city gives us a sense of pride and accomplishment,” said Fred LaBorn, Michigan City Area Schools. The gap analysis constituent of MetroMorphosis will serve as a forum for analyzing the current state versus the optimized desired states of the telecommunications, administrative support, and regulatory environments. The outcome of this analysis will then contrast the similarities and differences between the current desired environments as well as provide insight into subsequent recommendations for future endeavors. The migration plan component of MetroMorphosis will consolidate all recommendations for optimizing the desired states of the telecommunications, administrative support and regulatory environments into a concise plan of attack that charts a critical path toward the deployment of a municipal telecommunications platform. MetroMorphosis also stresses the importance of Telecommunications in Economic Development, the rationale and benefits of pursuing a Municipal Telecommunications Platform, and also defining and optimizing a Municipal Telecommunications Platform, a means for encouraging the deployment of telecommunications and services within a given region. "The Michigan City Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to be a partner in this endeavor as we explore broad-based and affordable wireless connectivity for both business and the public at large. We see this as an effective tool for economic development and believe it will ultimately improve the quality of life in our area,” said Tim Bietry, President of the Michigan City Area Chamber of Commerce. The BBK Group, a professional Telecommunications Management and Cost Control firm, will execute all current state assessment tasks related to carrier and service provider networks, and also provide case analysis and cost analysis in the formation of the gap analysis, and recommendation sections of the final deliverable. "The product of this effort - a strategic plan for technology in Michigan City - is a critical element for both economic development and education. In today's world, a community that is not effectively linked through technology is faced with competitive obstacles,” said J. Jeffrey Jones, Chair of the MCEDC Technology Taskforce and Michigan City Area Chamber as well as Assistant Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management at Purdue University North Central. The Michigan City Economic Development Corporation’s Technology Taskforce consists of Chuck Oberlie, Mayor of Michigan City; Tony Rodriguez, Executive Director of the Michigan City Economic Development Corporation; Dr. James Dworkin, Chancellor of Purdue University North Central; Tim Bietry, President of the Michigan City Area Chamber of Commerce; Diane Thalmann, Manager of NIPSCO-Economic Development; Dr. Robert Raisor, Citizen; Linda Woloshansky, Director of the Center for Workforce Innovations; Fred LaBorn, Michigan City Area Schools; Mike Harding, Superintendent of Michigan City Area Schools; Vince Taylor, Michigan City Area Schools; Kevin McGuire, Michigan City Area Schools; John and Peggy Moore, Dage-MTI Inc.; Jeff Jones, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management of Purdue University North Central; James Reagan, eVision, Inc.; William Ritchie, President of Automated Data. Commercial Vehicle Systems Inc. Announces New Product Line Michigan City, Indiana (February 18, 2004) - Commercial Vehicle Systems,
Inc., home of Sprague Devices, joins with Mayor Charles Oberlie and
Michigan City Economic Development Corporation Executive Director,
Tony Rodriguez in announcing the addition of a new product line at
the company’s Michigan City facility located at 520 W. Hwy 20. This
expansion will create an additional 30-35 new jobs, bringing the
total employment at the local facility to 160. Business Investment Awards Recognize Local Companies Michigan City, Indiana (April 29, 2004) - The Michigan City Economic Development Corporation hosted the "Taking Care of Business” 2004 Business Investment Awards dinner on April 29th, 2004 in the Grand Ballroom of the Blue Chip Casino. The event honored businesses that have made significant manufacturing investments in Michigan City since 2000, as well as recognized companies who are celebrating special anniversaries of operating in the community during 2004 and 2005. Dr. Martin C. Jischke, President of Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, gave the keynote address. Dr. Jischke became Purdue’s 10th president in August 2000. A prominent American higher-education administrator and advocate, he has held numerous national leadership roles in services to colleges and universities. He is on the Boards of Directors of the Association of American Universities and the American Council on Competitiveness. He has served on numerous civic, state and corporate boards during his academic career. Additionally, he has been a science adviser and consultant to a range of state and federal agencies, government officials and corporations, including a term as a White House Fellow and Special Assistant to the Secretary of Transportation. "Since the Michigan City Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) was formed in 1996, the organization has worked with local and new companies whose business investments have totaled over $200 million, while creating and retaining over 1500 jobs” stated Terry Hearst, Chairman of the MCEDC. "Tonight’s honorees are examples of companies who have made a commitment to this community, thus illustrating the benefits that the City and area have to offer as well as the excellent workforce available here” concluded Hearst. "In addition to sincere congratulations to all of the award recipients this evening, I would like to recognize and thank all of the stakeholders and partners that make the MCEDC what it is today. These include: the Mayor and Common Council, the Michigan City Area Chamber of Commerce, the Michigan City Urban Enterprise Association, the Michigan City Area Schools, Purdue University-North Central, the Center of Workforce Innovations and the Indiana Departments of Commerce and Workforce Development” stated Tony Rodriguez, Executive Director. Businesses honored: Major Business Investment Awards Fi Tech,Inc., Division of Ashley Ward, Inc., Foster Printing Service, Inc., GAF Materials Corporation, Guardian Industries, Lighthouse Industries, Inc., NATIONWIDE Midwest, Northern Indiana Public Service Company, A NiSource Company, OnLine Packaging, SCA North America, Thermo Safe Brands, Sandusky-Chicago Abrasive Wheel Company, St. Andrews Products, Jaymar-Ruby, Division of Hartmarx Corporation, USALCO Entrepreneurial Business Investment Awards Abacus Print & Sign Solutions, Advanced Communications, Inc., MCTD, Inc., Onesource, Schultz Properties, Meyer Glass & Mirror Company, Yacht Brite Products Special Anniversaries: Michigan City Paper Box Company-100 years; St. Anthony Memorial Health Centers-100 years. Other anniversaries: (80) years: Foster Printing Service, Inc., Chicago SouthShore & South Bend Railroad; (50) years: Dage-MTI of Michigan City, Dwyer Instruments, Inc., Stranco, Inc.; (40) years: Sullair Corporation, Ronard Industries, Swiss Controls, Inc.;(30) years: Cadence Environmental Energy Inc.; (20) years: Crismar Graphics, Inc., Federal Mogul Wiper Products, Fi Tech, Inc., A Division of Ashley Ward, Inc., Sullivan-Palatek, The Beacher, Montgomery & Associates; (10) years: Midwest Custom Finishing, onesource. The event was underwritten by the following sponsors: Alliance Bank, Horizon Bank, Barry McDonnell, Attorney, O. Jerrold Winski, Attorney, Michael S. Bergerson, Attorney, NIPSCO, A NiSource Company, First National Bank of Valparaiso, Cender & Associates, City of Michigan City, Tonn & Blank, A Division of Alverno Construction Corporation, Chicago SouthShore & South Bend Railroad, Braje & Nelson, Attorneys, National City Bank, City Savings Bank, Haas & Associates. Sandusky-Chicago to stay in Michigan City Michigan City, Indiana (February 12, 2004) - The Michigan City Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) is pleased to announce that Sandusky-Chicago Abrasive Wheel Company has completed a successful corporate restructuring and will remain in Michigan City. The company occupies 50,000 sq.ft. of manufacturing space at 1100 W. Barker Avenue and employs 30 people. The MCEDC assisted the company in helping to secure financing which enabled one of the limited partners to purchase the business and keep it here in the City, retaining all 30 quality jobs. Sandusky-Chicago can trace its origins back to 1889 and is a pioneer in the manufacturing of mounted points for the investment casting industry and a prime supplier to the aero space and related industries. They located to Michigan City in 1983, following a consolidation of their two companies from multiple floor locations in Chicago. MCEDC Executive Director Tony Rodriguez stated, "We are fortunate that Sandusky- Chicago has made the decision to remain here and invest in our community and its hard working people. The retention of the 30 jobs is critical to the local economy.” Swiss Controls Purchased Michigan City, Indiana (March 26, 2004) - Swiss Controls, Inc., a local manufacturing firm celebrating its 40th year in 2004, was purchased by two local businessmen, Bob Fryer and Tom Smith, on March 1, 2004 from the former owner Joe Vivoli, an Illinois businessman and former President of Swiss Controls, Inc. "At a time when maintaining local manufacturing jobs are more important than ever, we are extremely pleased this acquisition has been successfully completed by these two local businessmen” stated Mayor Charles Oberlie. Fryer is Chief Executive Officer with Allied Physicians of Michiana, LLC in South Bend, IN and is the new President of Swiss Controls. Smith continues as the corporation’s Vice President and General Manager, a position he has held for the past 13 years. Swiss Controls will not only maintain it’s presence in LaPorte County, but is likely to expand it’s operations within the next 12 months. Assisting with the overall acquisition and financing package were Kevin Beres and Dan Carroll, Vice-Presidents, Commercial Lending, Horizon Bank. Swiss Controls, Inc., is the leading manufacturer of vehicular lighting and controls for Military Tactical Vehicles, both Wheeled and Tracked. With the acquisition complete, the corporation’s Batavia, Illinois headquarters and secondary assembly plant will be re-located to the main facility located at 2603 E. Barker Avenue in Michigan City. This consolidation of operations may lead to as many as 10-12 new jobs for the area within the next 6-12 months. "On behalf of the Michigan City Economic Development Corporation, we are extremely pleased that Mr. Fryer and Mr. Smith were successful in the local acquisition of this long standing Michigan City company” commented Terry Hearst, Chairman of the MCEDC. Hearst continued, "Most importantly are the retention of the existing workforce at Swiss Controls and the potential of new job creation." City pushes for economic growth By Amanda Haverstick The News-Dispatch The Michigan City Economic Development Corp. has invited four internationally recognized economic development site selector consultants to spend two days in Michigan City as part of an aggressive new approach to marketing the city. MCEDC Executive Director Tony Rodriguez said the hope is to boost business opportunities in Michigan City and fill manufacturing and distribution vacancies left by the last economic recession. "This is planting the seeds for tomorrow. This effort is solely for the people," he said. "The result of that is a more healthy economy, a declining tax rate ... and business to business job opportunities." Rodriguez said the goal is to attract technical manufacturing and keep highly trained workers in Michigan City. "This is going to be a different type of manufacturing," he said. "(It will take) a skilled workforce with a technical orientation." Northern Exposure-Site Selector Days begins at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 20, in the MCEDC office, where the consultants will have an overview of Michigan City and receive a guided tour of city sites, buildings, housing and recreational areas. The group then will have a "Meet the Consultants" dinner at Rodini Restaurant, hosted by Rodriguez and Mayor Chuck Oberlie. "We've invited company heads, business leaders, educators and legislators," Rodriguez said. On Thursday, Aug. 21, the consultants, along with executives of companies that recently located to Michigan City, will have breakfast at Pottawattomie Country Club. The executives will share with the site selectors why the chose Michigan City. The highlight of Northern Exposure will be an Economic Development Roundtable Discussion at 10 a.m. Thursday in the City Hall Common Council Chambers. Site selectors will be joined by those invited to the dinner, as well as school board members, city council members and county commissioners. There will be a discussion of economic development trends, site selection factors, target markets and emerging businesses. Site selectors will give their thoughts on Michigan City along with suggestions. Community Dynamics Inc. President Bob Schaefer, who will lead the roundtable, said the site selectors were more than willing to come to Michigan City. "We told them you don't have to prepare a speech," he said. "(We said) relax, learn about the community and tell us how to improve." Site selectors include Robert Ady, Deane C. Foote, Ivan Baker and Darin M. Buelow. Ady, former president of PHH Fantus Consulting and now president of Ady International, is known for identifying locations for more businesses in the United States than any other person. He has represented a number of relocating companies, including General Mills, AK Steel, Best Buy Co., Brady Corp., Budd Corp. and Cross Country Automotive. Foote is senior project manager for Economic Development and Real Estate Services with Carter & Burgess, Inc. He has assisted in site selection for companies such as Caterpillar, Northwest Airlines, Quaker Oats/Gatorade and Volvo. Baker, senior corporate services consultant of Pollina Corporate Consulting in Park Ridge, Ill., has coordinated business expansion projects for international, national and regional corporations, including Ticketmaster, Borden, Boeing, Champion Parts and International Multifoods. Buelow, senior manager of Deloitte & Touche in Chicago, has conducted community assessments and targeting strategies for Macon, Athens and Americus in Georgia and has evaluated the business attraction potential for Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. EDC Recipient of Community Grant Michigan City, IN (June 2, 2003) – The Michigan City Economic Development Corporation was named today by Lt. Governor Joe Kernan as one of 19 statewide recipients of a Community Development Action Grant. The MCEDC, which focuses on business recruitment and retention in Michigan City, will receive a grant for $20,000 to carry out local economic development efforts. The CDAG program provides aid to non-profit organizations which focus on community and economic development. Kernan, who serves as the director of the Indiana Department of Commerce, said, "The grants help these organizations improve and expand services, as well as become more efficient for their customers.” After competing with 59 organizations for the grants, MCEDC Executive Director Tony Rodriguez described the importance of the award. "At a time when every good paying job counts, we are pleased to have been chosen for this assistance,” he commented. Mayor Sheila Brillson , Chairman of the MCEDC, added, "Just as we fought to retain the Hartmarx Company and their distribution, this grant will allow the MCEDC to continue to pursue significant job creation and retention opportunities.” Hartmarx Corporation To Stay and Grow in Michigan City Michigan City , IN (January 9, 2003) --After months of confidential negotiations, Mayor Sheila Brillson , Chairman of the Michigan City Economic Development Corporation, is pleased to announce that Hartmarx Corporation has reversed its decision to close its Michigan City facility. Scheduled to completely shut down by May 2003, the company currently employs 86 people. "The shocking news more than a year ago to close this facility was an immediate call to action for our Economic Development Team”, stated Mayor Brillson. The Jaymar Ruby Company has been a backbone of Michigan City ’s manufacturing base since its inception in 1922. Jaymar was acquired by Hartmarx in the mid 1960’s and continued as a leading employer until global economic conditions forced restructuring and realignment of apparel production. Burton "Bud" Ruby, Chairman of Jaymar-Ruby, stated, "We’ve had staggered lay-offs because much of our manufacturing is now done over-seas. We’ve been gearing down to completely close our doors in the next 4-5 months. The city has gone to great lengths to keep the business in the community. The Mayor, Tony Rodriguez and their team are entitled to a lot of credit. It’s a matter of tremendous personal pleasure and gratification to me that my company will remain and grow in Michigan City . I will continue to work for the community and the company will be active part in it.” "The day of the announcement to close the facility, Mayor Brillson and I visited with corporate executives in a last ditch effort to have them reconsider. While the news in that particular meeting was grim, we refused to give up. A very important piece of state legislation was passed in May 2002; we saw this as an opportunity to try to reengage the corporate executives with an offer to analyze the financial impact of House Bill 1001 which includes the reduction of commercial and industrial property tax, the repeal of inventory tax, and other pro business tax modifications,” stated Tony Rodriguez, Executive Director of the Michigan City Economic Development Corporation. Mayor Brillson commented, "This company has been too important to this community to let it go without a fight. We put forth our best effort as an economic development team and today we are here to celebrate the positive and successful results of our work. I commend the bargaining unit, employees, management from the company and all of our local partners." As a result of this decision the company has projected an additional 60 new jobs will be added over the coming year. For questions or comments Please contact:
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