Local roofing company Korellis has stepped in to support the Franciscan Health Mobile Market program, which provides vital food assistance to those in need. This initiative comes at a crucial time, as state and federal funding cuts had previously reduced the frequency of these drive-through events. Since its inception in July 2021, the Mobile Markets have successfully served over 10,000 individuals and 3,000 families in North Lake County. The next drive-up Mobile Market, sponsored by Korellis, is scheduled for August 20, 2023, from 15:00 to 17:00 at 5454 Hohman Ave., Hammond. Participation will be on a first-come, first-served basis, and attendees must present a valid photo ID. Those interested in food assistance are encouraged to contact 219-407-6948 for more details.
In a related development, the Syd Garner Scholarship Committee and the Lake County Council announced that Sierra Barron of Hobart has been named the recipient of the 2025-2026 Syd Garner Scholarship. Councilman Pete Lindemulder presented the scholarship to Barron during a council meeting on July 8, 2023. Currently employed at Lake County Community Corrections, Barron is a senior majoring in criminal justice at Indiana University Northwest, with a GPA of 3.697. This scholarship is awarded to employees or children of employees of the Lake County Government with five or more years of service.
Steinhafels, an employee-owned company, has opened a new Furniture and Mattress Superstore in Merrillville, Indiana. This 50,000-square-foot showroom, located at 1600 E. 80th Ave. in Merrillville Plaza, replaces the former RoomPlace site and marks Steinhafels’ first location in Indiana. It is also the company’s 16th location overall and seventh in the greater Chicagoland area. The superstore showcases Steinhafels’ signature room settings, offers decorating services, and features top-brand mattresses. More information is available at steinhafels.com.
In recognition of her commitment to excellence in public treasury standards, Holly Taylor, the Valparaiso Clerk-Treasurer, has achieved the designation of Certified Public Finance Administrator from the Association of Public Treasurers of the United States and Canada. Taylor has also earned the title of Certified Municipal Clerk from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks Inc. and is recognized as an Indiana Accredited Municipal Clerk by the Indiana League of Municipal Clerks & Treasurers. Having joined the City of Valparaiso as a Deputy Clerk-Treasurer in 2012, she was first elected as Clerk-Treasurer in 2019 and is a graduate of Purdue University.
In another significant development, Purdue University Northwest (PNW) has been designated a Collegiate Purple Star of Indiana institution by the Indiana Commission for Higher Education. This designation acknowledges PNW’s ongoing commitment to supporting military-affiliated students throughout their academic journey. PNW is one of only 28 colleges and universities in Indiana to receive this recognition and stands out as one of just six institutions to achieve Tier 1 status, joining the ranks of Purdue West Lafayette and Purdue Fort Wayne. The designation is based on 37 standards across eight categories, with PNW earning an impressive 91% overall performance score on the Collegiate Purple Star Summary Report. PNW’s Veteran Services program plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transition for veterans from military life to academic success. More information on PNW’s Veteran Services can be found at pnw.edu/veteran-services.
Additionally, Northwest Health – Porter hosted an open house on July 29, 2023, allowing community members to explore its latest high-tech surgical robot. The event invited residents to “test drive” the technology used in minimally invasive robotic-assisted surgeries while engaging with the surgeons who utilize it. The open house was free and welcomed individuals of all ages, making it an inclusive opportunity for the community.
In a change within local governance, Patrick Lyp, the Valparaiso City Attorney, has accepted a position in the private sector, as announced by Mayor Jon Costas. Lyp joined the City of Valparaiso in January 2014 and was appointed City Attorney in January 2020. His contributions included work on significant city projects such as the redevelopment of the County Seat Shopping Center and the downtown amphitheater. Lyp also served on the Board of Directors for the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority from 2020-2024, appointed by Governor Eric Holcomb.
