2009 Annual Review

MOMEN TUMMOMEN TUM

Mission

The Northwest Indiana Forum is the regional voice for the business community and a significant catalyst for initiatives that promote economic development and create and retain quality jobs.

Platforms

The Forum is the premier source of a full package of site selector services focused on four key industries for growth and development.

Advanced Manufacturing• Transportation, Distribution & Logistics• IT/Technology-based Opportunities• Professional Services/Office Space • (including but not limited to Healthcare, Education, Headquarters)

Core Beliefs

Supporting Private Enterprise• Building Regional Collaboration• Developing Strong Partnerships• Promoting Governmental Policies for Economic Growth• Development in Harmony with the Environment• Measuring Results•

Funded by membership contributions and grants, Forum membership translated into a direct investment in the region to support growth and economic innovation.

With more than 120 member organizations, the Forum works to create a positive business climate promoting investment and job creation while protecting the environment. Critical components of a sustainable regional economy.

Enabling this growth includes stable tax policies, reasonable operations and living costs and a workable regulatory environment that protects the quality of life and does not inhibit growth and opportunities.

The Forum is where passion for a better Northwest Indiana is rooted in economic de-velopment, environmental affairs and pub-lic policy enhancement. It is through these activities that the Forum champions the

future of our region.

The Forum voice is energetic and strong. Members represent more than $40 billion in commerce for the State of Indiana. The voice is bold. The Forum takes positions on crucial regional projects like the Gary/Chi-cago International Airport, extension of the South Shore Line and Illiana Expressway.

The Forum actively works with environmen-talists to protect and enhance the region’s natural resources and greatest asset, Lake Michigan. While respecting resources, the Forum-led Great Lakes Compact Team sus-tained business and retained opportunity for

future growth.

The voice is innovative and influential. The Forum with other regional economic devel-opment groups pursued state legislation that offers an incentive option attractive to

high-tech based companies.

The Forum is the voice of regional business leadership.

Mike BairdRegional Vice President

Harris, NA

Our desire, determination and passion will make us become greater than we already are.

A MESSAGE FROM

THE CHAIRMAN

What a 2009! Even in the face of an economic downturn, the Northwest Indiana Forum pursued its mission and vision to create and retain quality jobs in the region. We stayed true to our role and continued to be the convening organization and partner for special projects and critical issues for Northwest Indiana.

How we arrived here was not easy, but our thoughts, desires, efforts and passions were focused on one single goal – to become greater than we already are. To achieve a better quality of life for our region, to cre-ate possibilities that weren’t there before, to ensure a future we can be proud of.

2009 has been a vital year in the development and opportunities ahead. We jumped into the legislative session with both feet with direction from Public Policy Liaison, Jill Ritchie. On the heels of a successful reception with many legislators in attendance, Forum leadership in coordination with other organizations led to the passage of Senate Enrolled Act 448 (SEA 448—tax exemption for IT enterprise equipment) giving Indiana another advantage in attracting the next generation of industry. We remain committed and continue to foster a better business climate for the region and the state.

With the leadership of Don Babcock, the Forum’s Economic Development Committee experienced great success. The Forum developed 40% of the leads through participation in various conferences, trade shows as well leading the program/content of annual Build Indiana Conference. The Forum engaged the LEDOs, who played a key role in the passage of SEA 448, and their communities in the economic development aspects of the NIRPC 2040 plan. As partnership is key to regional development, it was crucial to collaborate with NIRPC to create the NWI Economic Development District to apply for and access Economic Develop-ment Administration and stimulus funding.

The Forum and its Environmental Committee, led by Doug Bley and Jim Flannery, welcomed EPA Ad-ministrator Lisa Jackson to Northwest Indiana to showcase how region industries are remaining globally competitive while working to protect natural resources. The EPA Administrator visit is only one example of the educational programming and special events hosted by the Forum in 2009. Dewey Pearman led the Membership efforts welcoming 13 new members, engaging new member organizations and furthering members involvement in Forum initiatives, activities and efforts.

And as the organization evolved, we established two new committees: Strategic Planning and By-Laws. Strategic Planning addresses the organizational strategy, annual assessment and evaluation of the plan and accomplishments led by Jim Flannery. By-Laws, led by Jim Jorgensen, focused efforts on governance is-sues, revamping the Managing Board election process, and providing consistency within the By-Laws.

Speaking engagements, press coverage, events and activities, plus the new website brought the concerns of business leadership to the forefront of regional dialogue. The Forum is looked to as a resource and expert on issues and topics concerning Northwest Indiana and economic development.

The collective energy of the Forum enables us to dream, move forward, expand our hearts and minds al-lowing us to grow and achieve more than we ever imagined possible. Regional economic development is a journey of cooperation and unity, a common belief that we can be the Northwest Indiana we all want to be. Business leadership through one voice of the Northwest Indiana Forum does believe. It would not have been possible to have accomplished so much without the dedication and tireless efforts of the Forum staff. A very special thank you to Vince, Kay, Karen, Don, Paula and Tiffany.

It has been my pleasure and privilege to serve as your Chair for 2009. Thank you for allowing me to serve.

2 l 2009 Annual Review

Mark MaasselPresident & CEO

Northwest Indiana Forum

There is a collaborative and genuine will to improve, to achieve bigger and better.

A MESSAGE FROMTHE PRESIDENT & CEO

2009 was a tough year for your Northwest Indiana Forum. We, like our entire country, had to weather the worst economic downturn – a true recession – that any of us have ever seen. And yet as so often happens, in the midst of the loss of jobs and of income, the cut backs on investment by businesses and tightened access to capital (loans), the seeds of our future success were sown for the Forum and for NW Indiana.

First, let me focus on our membership, those who make this such a powerful organization. We all mourn the loss of 14 of our members, but join in celebrating the addition of 13 new members. The support of our mem-bers continues to be strong and for that we are thankful. Over 140 volunteers serve on the committees and the Managing Board donating countless hours building a stronger region. And the Region represented by the Forum has expanded to include Starke County, a vibrant county with a strong economic development leader and a focus on the future. From a revenue standpoint, the Forum saw a decline in our revenues as we entered in 2010. However, we ended 2009 with unrestricted cash of approximately $220,000 and net assets of about $238,000 crucial in positioning the Forum for the future.

And key aspects of preparing for the future were the successful conclusion of legislative and environmental issues. On the economic development front, the Forum was a leader in developing the concept of a Technol-ogy District and supporting the Indiana General Assembly process needed to pass Senate Bill 448. With this law, governmental entities like a city can create a Technology District. Within this district, a government can eliminate the personal property taxes of companies, like data centers, who make substantial investments in technology.

These companies invest heavily in technology, bring high paying jobs to a region and generate substantial benefits for the community. However, in Indiana we have been unable to get these types of employers because historically the tax on personal property made us uncompetitive with our neighbors. Indeed, the Forum has been a part of a near miss where this exact issue kept a company from locating in our Region. With this law, we are prepared to compete.

On the environmental front, the Forum plays a key role in bringing our members together with the leaders of the environmental community on important issues such as Lake Michigan. Following the 2008 passage of SEA 45 (Great Lakes Compact), our partnership with the many stakeholders continues on Compact implementation and rulemaking. This partnership has expanded its focus to include current Antidegradation rulemaking, process and permit issuance. Again, the Forum was a part of preparing for the coming economic recovery.

Finally, I would be remiss if I did not highlight the strong and dedicated staff of the Forum. With Don Koli-bowski leading the charge in creating new jobs, Karen Lauerman leading the charge in our outreach efforts, Paula Mathis leading the charge on watching over our fiscal performance and Kay Nelson leading the charge on the environmental issues, your Forum is staffed with true professionals, highly skilled and dedicated to our mission. Together this group is working hard to seize the advantages enjoyed by NW Indiana, use the new tools that we have established and build a track record of success. I am thankful to my predecessor, Vince Galbiati, and am anxious to move the Forum to higher levels. Last of all, I thank the Forum Board for its vote of confidence in asking that I become a part of the Forum staff.

We are indeed all thankful that 2009 is history.

And yet, through the hard work, skill and dedication of many, the Forum is well positioned to drive job creation in NW Indiana.

2009 Annual Review l 3

The City of Gary began to prepare properties for market with monies from the Forum’s Economic Development/Environmental Fund underwritten by NIPSCO.

The City of Hobart received Certified Shovel Ready status from the IEDC for Northwinds Crossing, while LaPorte County expanded their existing Certified Shovel Ready site. Work con-tinues on the Baughman Distribution Complex (affiliate of Sysco) project in Starke County with the infrastructure and site improvements.

Filling an information gap, the Forum capitalized on Senate Enrolled Act 448 (IT Tax Exemptions) and a generous Chase grant, taking the lead in mapping the regional fiber-optic grid. With no one resource for fiber optic assets, the resulting asset map will be a complete picture of the Northwest Indiana technology infrastructure.

CREATING, RETAINING AND ATTRACTING JOBSECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTStrong workforce, extensive transportation systems, Foreign Trade Zones, Lake Michigan and one of the nation’s lowest costs of doing business—all on the right side of Chicago.

Global companies like ArcelorMittal, BP and United States Steel Corporation have found world class locations in Northwest Indiana. But the regional economy does not stop there.

Through it’s Economic Development Depart-ment led by Committee Chair Don Babcock and staff Director Donald Koliboski, the Forum continues to generate leads, capitalize on op-portunities to add to and diversify the economy, creating more jobs for Northwest Indiana citizens.

Supporting local economic development organizations/professionals with research and marketing has become an increasing role of the Forum.

The ED Committee brings this regional team together to dis-

cuss progress on common initiatives, legislative issues impacting incentives/economic growth, as well professional development programs.

To that end, the Forum assisted Purdue North Central in creating an Economic Development certificate program where coursework can be applied toward an MBA or certificate. Courses are designed to provide a better understanding

of the theoretical and practi-cal aspects of economic development.

The Forum continued to connect with Chicago-land brokers/developers, promoting hot properties including the largest spec building in the region,

Tobin Development’s Midpoint USA (Ameriplex at the Port-Holladay Properties, City of Portage).

The Forum and our partners attended 15 key conferences/tradeshows to keep the momen-tum going. Regional promotion, site selector services and partnership with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) and others garnered the Forum 108 leads in 2009, up significantly from 2008.

NWI ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DISTRICTCOMPREHENSIVE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY

The Forum and the Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission worked together to create the new Northwest Indiana Economic Development District (NWI EDD). The District was established in order to begin the pro-cess of applying for and receiving federal Economic Development Adminis-tration (EDA) Funds.

The public private partnership (established as a 501c3) is comprised of 51% public offi cials and 49% private sector/business representation. This inde-pendent organization is charged with creating the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) and using it as a guide for project evaluation and cohesiveness with the regional economic development plan.

District designation is crucial as the EDA budget has tripled in size and the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act has increased EDA funding and the number of opportunities. Sheparding the development of the EDD and CEDS is Forum Economic Development Director, Don Koliboski

“The region has been shut out of receiving EDA funds as we lacked a devel-opment district and a comprehensive strategy, The Forum involved itself in the foundation of the EDD so the region can apply for and tap into the fund-ing opportunities it’s been missing,” according to Dewey Pearman, Executive Director of CAF and Chair, NWI EDD.

As the voice of business leader-ship and the regional economic development corporation, the Forum is the champion of in-frastructure, land assembly and broadband access, all necessary for smart business growth and retention in the region.

Private Sector NWI EDD Board Members:

Dewey PearmanCAF

Tim Gropp Greater LaPorte Economic Development Corp.

Tom GalovicRDC

Danita Johnson HughesEdgewater Systems

Tom KeilmanBP

Kay NelsonNorthwest Indiana Forum

J Guadalupe Valtierra Ivy Tech Community College

Curtis WhittakerWhittaker & Company

Matt ReardonSEH

4 l 2009 Annual Review

Positions that facilitate smart planning and growth, strengthen infrastructure, improve our environment, support communities with incentive options, attract companies with the potential to create and retain quality jobs, and improve the quality of life highlight Forum’s role as the regional voice of the business com-munity.

In 2009, the Forum continued its push for improved infrastructure. Tied to economic development efforts were Better State Ac-counting and Reporting Practices and Com-munity Revitalization through Lifestyle Centers. Antidegradation Rulemaking, Permit Certainty and Great Lakes Compact Implementation were on forefront of environmental policy issues.

Technology took center stage as the Forum along with economic development groups statewide and Senator Ed Charbonneau, worked to make the Technology/IT Tax Exemption (Sen-ate Enrolled Act 448) a reality. A unanimous vote of support in the Senate and overwhelming support in the House made Indiana competitive.

The Forum engaged all members interested

in public policy to participate in the vetting process and work toward common goals.

Through the work of Jill Ritchie, Public Policy Liasion to the Board (Past-Chair of the Gov-ernmental Affairs Committee) and members dedicated to legislative issues, the Forum was able to identify four key areas to guide legisla-tive positions and opinions.

The Northwest Indiana Forum supports:public policy which provides for a • competitive business climate. public policy or legislative changes • that would improve local government structure and function. public policy which provides for infra-• structure support and development.a regulatory environment which pro-• vides for economic growth and protects the quality of life for residents.

The Forum advocates, as appropriate, for or against public policy and taxation impacting existing businesses and industries. The region’s future rests on the Forum’s ability to lead and create change.

From reliable energy and water required by companies and communities, to highways and airways that move people and products, to the amenities and connection to Chicagoland, and to the Lake Michigan shore that defines North-west Indiana’s enviable quality of life – now more than ever, the Forum actively works to find solutions to our challenges.

The Forum takes positions on issues that its membership determine will have an effect on the development and creation of a strong glob-ally competitive economy in Northwest Indiana. By focusing efforts and partnering, the Forum can address the most critical issues facing business and industry and the challenges of economic development.

SENATE ENROLLED ACT 448 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY EXEMPTION

In this competitive environment, Northwest Indiana offers many advantages: infrastructure, connected developments, workforce and quality of life. What did not exist was the ability to compete with neighboring states for technol-ogy driven development.

In 2008, the Forum began to investigate and analyze opportunities to create a better business climate for technology based corporations.

In 2009, with research underwritten by NIPSCO, conducted by Cender & Company and proof of lost deals in hand, the Forum worked to assure leg-islation was introduced that would provide a tax exemption on Information Technology/Enterprise Equipment, allowing Northwest Indiana and the entire state to compete for tech-based businesses. Bill author, Senator Ed Charbon-neau and almost the entire NWI delegation championed Senate Bill 448.

Working with regional and state partners, the Forum made a difference in how Northwest Indiana will be viewed by technology companies.

This key economic development incentive combines with other key ad-vantages which are crucial to reliable communication and transfer of data. Surrounded by some of the country’s major markets, regional networks allow businesses to access the world. Data centers, fi ber hotels, health information systems and cloud computing operations will fi nd ideal locations in North-west Indiana.

A STRONG AND INVITING BUSINESS CLIMATE POLICY & GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

Partnering with the Indiana Economic Development Assosication, TechPoint and other state/regional groups, the Forum broadened the scope for technology equipment tax exemption. The Forum carried the water and made it happen.

Mayor Brian SnedecorCity of Hobart

2009 Annual Review l 5

RESPECTING RESOURCES AND SUSTAINING BUSINESSENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS

EPA ADMINISTRATOR TOURS NORTHWEST INDIANASPEAKS AT FORUM MEETING

The Forum hosted EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson in September at a joint meeting of business leadership, industry representatives and environmentalists and facilitated her tour of the United States Steel Corporation-Gary Works.

“Engaging the business community is essential to our success in protecting hu-man health and the environment. We’re counting on organizations like the Forum to lead the way towards a thriving, sus-tainable economy,” said EPA Administra-tor Lisa P. Jackson.

“The members of the Northwest Indiana Forum understand that clean, healthy communities are the best places for people to live and businesses to invest. Protecting our environment is a crucial step in building a new foundation for prosperity.”

The United States Steel Corporation-Gary Works was the fi rst major manufacturing operation Jackson has toured in her role as EPA Ad-ministrator. Jackson toured the 84 Inch Hot Strip Mill and discussed the environmental strides being made at the facility, an illustration of how Northwest Indiana companies are working to sustain the economy while respecting resources.

The Forum and its Director of Environmental Affairs, Kay Nelson extended Jackson an invitation for the tour and meeting to further the understanding of large scale industrial operations, environmental stewardship, and collaborative process of handling environmental issues in the region.

The tour and meeting allowed Jackson to experience the region’s manufacturing base fi rst hand and to hear the issues from the people who are on the front lines of managing environmental issues in Northwest Indiana.

From the Cline Avenue Closure to the Asian Carp crisis, the Forum’s Environmental sector led in 2009 by Committee Chairs Doug Bley and Jim Flannery with staff Director Kay Nelson stepped up the efforts to preserve and protect the region’s natural resources while supporting business and economic development.

Environmental issues joined the two unlikely topics of carp and Cline together. The Forum immediately recognized and began to address the crucial issues of air and water quality. From position statements to gathered research, the Forum is a critical environmental resource and partner.

2009 brought continued work on the Great Lake Compact rulemaking, as well as the implemen-tation language for Antidegradation associated with Indiana Department of Environmental Management permit process.

To signify the important work of Nelson and the Environmental Committee, the Compact team received Team Recognition from the Society of Innovators and Nelson the Sagamore of the Wabash (the highest civilian honor in Indiana) for her work on the St. Lawrence/Great Lakes Compact from Governor Mitch Daniels, Senator Ed Charbonneau and Senator Beverly Gard.

Through its Foundation, the Forum acted as fiduciary for an EPA Diesel Emission Reduction Act/Midwest Clean Diesel Initiative Grant to assist ArcelorMittal in reducing emissions by 30 Tons annually.

The Forum plays a vital role in regional education for industrial, governmental and environmental stakeholders relating to pollution

prevention and general environmental issues. The Environmental Permitting Information Fairs introduced in 2008, served as a model for many member companies engaged in the public outreach portion of the permitting process.

Sharing the news of economic and environmen-tal developments, the BP and the Forum brought

business leadership together for “Refining the Region,” a luncheon to highlight activites as part of the $4 Billion BP Whiting Refinery Modernization Project.

Though Climate Change (Greenhouse Gasses/Cap & Trade), might have taken a backseat to the healthcare debate in Washington, DC, in Northwest Indiana the Forum will continue to serve affected members in a facilitation and educational role.

In continued recognition of the strength of the Forum’s environmental work and partnerships, Rob Carter, Commissioner of the Indiana De-partment of Natural Resources appointed Nelson to the Water Resources Task Force.

Our region is fortunate to have an organization like the Forum, a will-ing partner in working to preserve the environment and bringing jobs to Northwest Indiana. The Forum takes a pro-active role to create a bridge between regional envi-ronmental groups and business. I always look forward to working with them.

Senator Karen Tallian

6 l 2009 Annual Review

Ristorante, Gary SouthShore RailCats, Heartland Pump & Process, Lakeshore Bone & Joint, McDonald/Cagen, NetNitco, Safety Kleen and Tonn& Blank. The Committee continues to ex-plore new ways to engage members, attract new companies and leaders, and enhance the value and benefits of Forum membership.

On an organizational level, the Managing Board of Directors reviewed the lessons of the past, listened to the current member feedback, and kept an eye to the future to revise the Forum mission and the long-term strategic plan. They revised the By-Laws to allow for more inclusiv-ity, providing for honorary members and a new Board election process.

As the premiere regional business leadership organization, the Forum hosted numerous spe-cial events and networking activities to connect members with each other as well as industry experts, elected officials and new business opportunities.

The Forum created six educational programs de-signed for regional, business and professional development, ensuring that members are on top of issues at hand. Equipping regional leadership with insight and information is necessary for

2009 was a year of enormous challenges. Because of the steady, unflinching support of membership, the Forum was able to stand strong, maintain its high level and qual-ity of services and focus on regional initiatives for job growth and capital investment.

This year marked the 30th anniversary of the of the Forum. And while that long history dem-onstrates the importance and influence of the organization, the Forum continues to remain relevant in the development and growth North-west Indiana.

Through the efforts of the Membership Com-mittee and Chair Dewey Pearman, the Forum welcomed new members: Braman Insurance Services, Doherty Images, Environ, Gamba

MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONSMEMBERSHIP

THE AMERICAN RECOVERY & REINVESTMENT ACT FORMER INDIANA SECRETARY OF COMMERCE AND EXPERTS ADDRESS STIMULUS FUNDING ISSUES

Former Indiana Secretary of Commerce and Baker & Daniels Partner, Nate Feltman joined by David Gogol, Vice Chair of B & D Consulting to analyzed and discussed the impact and importance of the Federal stimulus package. Baker & Daniels’ Partners Rich Hill and Randy Rompola added the local perspective on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

More than 300 business leaders, elected offi cials, and community representatives attended “The $787 Billion Question” sponsored by the Forum and Baker & Daniels. The information presented provided signifi cant insight in to the various funding op-portunities for Northwest Indiana.

Feltman addressed Northwest Indiana’s advantages for utilizing funds, noting that the “Forum is a critical component in the economic development of the region.” Speakers covered the methods by which funding could reach Northwest Indiana, discretionary funds and applications for such monies (for example, through the Economic Develop-ment Administration (EDA)).

The event solidifi ed the need for an Economic Development District (see page 4) and a coordinated effort to apply for and utilize funds.

The Forum’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Luncheon was supurb. Hearing from former Indiana Secreatry of Commerce, Nate Feltman and those on the pulse of the stimulus package allocations energized my community. The Forum is crucial to our growth as region.

Northwest Indiana to ready itself for a successful future in the years ahead.

The Forum is not only THE Forum, but YOUR Forum – an organization that meets the chang-ing needs and issues facing business and industry and anticipates those on the horizon. As such the organization unveiled a new and improved website www.nwiforum.org to answer the needs of site selectors, developers/brokers, potential and current members.

There are many questions and challenges facing our region and the Forum provides strength in member knowledge and expertise, strength in member community, and strength in member numbers. At the heart of the Forum are dedi-cated people and partnerships making progress and prosperity possible.

Regardless of a member’s financial investment level, the Forum is where business and industry look for assistance and support on the crucial issues. Creating jobs and encourag-ing regional investment is everyone’s responsibility. The Forum is the single entity where it comes together.

garry mitchellMayor Kathy

ChrobackCity of LaPorte

Garry MitchellOpportunity Enterprises

2009 Annual Review l 7

NOTABLE ACTIVITIESYEAR IN REVIEW

BUSINESSNETWORKING

Former Representative Ralph Ayers chats with guests at the Forum/Baker & Daniels ARRA Luncheon

Representative Chet Dobis discusses issues at one of the many Forum networking sessions

Senator Ed Charbonneau visits with Forum members

Networking with Forum members and guests allows Whittaker & Company, CPA’s to strengthen ties with business leadership in Northwest Indiana. I always accomplish a con-nection or come away with a new opportunity. Curtis Whittaker, CPA, Managing Partner, Whittaker & Company, CPA’s

The Forum’s educational programs offer insight and knowledge on relevant topics when it matters most. The Pandemic Presentation identifi ed key reasons businesses should have emergency plans. And partnering with the Forum on the Tech & Tax Talk was well received. The session gave re-gional REALTORS® and businesses an update on Senate Enrolled Act 448, its impact on IT/Tech-based economic development and fi ber optic infrastructure. Pat Pullara, COO, Greater Northwest Indiana Association of REALTORS®

SPECIAL EVENTS

National Green Certification announcement in Burns Harbor with Congressman Peter J. Visclosky

Hosting Canadian Dignitar-ies at the NWI premiere of Mysteries of the Great Lakes with the Ports of Indiana

Anticipating the 2016 Olym-pic Bid announcement with the South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority

When the National Home Builders Association awarded one of our member’s developments their National Green Certifi cation, the Forum supported us and helped us achieve great success with the press conference and the announcement. The Forum guided us through the entire public relations and event process. Through their efforts, news about the announcement spread state and nationwide. Vicky Gadd, Executive Offi cer, Porter County Builders Association

EDUCATIONALPROGRAMS

Pandemic Ready?: Krieg DeVault, Sisters of St. Fran-cis, Lake County Advance-ment Committee

Tech & Tax Talk (Senate Enrolled Act 448): GNIAR

Refining the Region/Update on Modernization Project: BP and American Petroleum Institute.

8 l 2009 Annual Review

NOTABLE ACTIVITIESYEAR IN REVIEW

CONFERENCESTRADESHOWS

Build Indiana Conference with noted developer Tim Healy (Holladay Properties) speak-ing to the sold out crowd

Forum display (2009) for Chicago Industrial Proper-ties Forcast and Summits and other conferences and tradeshows.

Reaching out to the Chicagoland Market through Chicago Industrial Property summits, AIRE and other organizations is incredibly important. And with the Forum as a founding sponsor and program developer of the Build Indiana Conference, we are able to showcase NWI at its best. Kevin Kieft, Business Development, Michigan City Economic Development Corporation

ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES

South Shore Fiber Link (dark fiber system) announcement with Congressmen Joe Do-nelly and Peter J. Visclosky.

Broker developer activities and receptions (featuring high-profile speakers like Representative Ed Soliday).

Completition of Midpoint (500,000+ square feet).

NWI has a business friendly environment and logistic advantages superior to Northeast Will County, Illinois. We capitalized on the positives with a state of the art spec building. Great regional partners like the Northwest Indiana Forum made this project a success and a win for all parties. Kevin Tobin, Principal of Tobin Development (Midpoint developer)

SOUTH SHOREPOSTER SERIES

Valparaiso University 150th Anniversary: Hoeppner, Wagner & Evans

Live Innovation (Rocketman): Livemercial

Indiana University Medical School

Also in 2009: A Classic Never Goes Out of Style: Downtown Highland Busi-ness District and 150 Years of Innovation: Valparaiso School of Engineering

The South Shore Poster Arts Management partnership [Forum and South Shore Arts] takes the poster series to a new level of appreciation and recognition. It’s an incredible example of how art can con-tribute to the economic development of a community. Our partnership allows each organization to do what it does best to promote Northwest Indiana. John Cain, Executive Director, South Shore Arts

2009 Annual Review l 9

NORTHWEST INDIANA FORUM2009 MEMBERSAllen Landscape

American Trust & Savings Bank

ArcelorMittal

Baker & Daniels

Barnes & Thornburg

BP Oil Company

Braman Insurance Services

Bruce Carter & Associates

Burke, Costanza & Cuppy

Cambridge Companies

Cargill

Cender & Company

Center of Workforce Innovations

Chase

Chicago Industrial Real Estate

Chicago South Shore & South Bend Railroad

City of Crown Point

City of Hammond

City of Hobart

City of LaPorte

City of Michigan City

City of Portage

City of Valparaiso

Comcast Cable Communications

Commercial In-Sites, Inc.

Construction Advancement Foundation

Darwin Realty & Development

Diversified Marketing

Doherty Images

Don Powers Agency, Inc.

DRD

Duneland/Chesterton Chamber of Commerce

Duneland Economic Development Company

Edgewater Health Systems

ENVIRON

Environmental Process Technologies

EPCORE, USA

Falk PLI Engineering

Fifth Third Bank

First Financial Bank

First Midwest Bank

G.W. Berkheimer Co., Inc.

Gamba Ristorante

Gary/Chicago International Airport

Gary SouthShore RailCats

Greater LaPorte Economic Development Corp

Greater NWI Association of Realtors

Grubb & Ellis | Cressy & Everett

Harris Bank

Heartland Pump & Process

Hoeppner, Wagner & Evans

Holladay Properties

Horseshoe Casino

Indiana American Water

Indiana Economic Development Corporation

Indiana Port Commission

Indiana University Northwest

Indiana University School of Medicine

Ivy Tech Community College

John W. Anderson Foundation

Johnson & Rappa, LLC

Kevin J. Tobin Development Corporation

Krieg-DeVault LLP

Lake Area United Way

Lakeshore Bone & Joint

LaPorte Municipal Airport Authority

McShanes Inc.

Microbac Laboratories, Inc.

NetNITCO

NIPSCO

North Coast Distributing, Inc.

Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District

Northwest Indiana Business Quarterly

Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority

Northwest Indiana Regional Planning Commission

NWI Building and Construction Trades Council

Opportunity Enterprises Inc.

Pepsi Americas

Policy Analytics

Porter County Builders Association

Porter County Convention Recreation & Visitors Commission

Porter-Starke Services

Precision Construction & Development

Purdue University Calumet

Purdue University North Central

Quality Environmental Professionals, Inc.

Regional Development Company

Reith-Riley Construction

SEH

Sisters of St Francis Health Services, Inc.

South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority

Starke County Development Foundation

Success Trek

The Pangere Corporation, Inc.

The Times

Tonn & Blank

Town of Chesterton

Town of Porter

Town of Burns Harbor

Town of Dyer

Town of Highland Economic Development Commission

Town of Munster

Truck City of Gary

United States Steel Corporation

United Water

Urban Enterprise Association of Hammond, Indiana, Inc.

Valparaiso City Utilities

Valparaiso University

Walsh & Kelly, Inc.

Weaver Boos Consultants, Inc.

Whiteco Industries, Inc.

Whittaker & Company, LLC

Wiseway Food Center

10 l 2009 Annual Review

OFFICERS

Michael Baird, Chair 1, 3-5

Regional PresidentHarris, N.A.

Robert Gardiner, Secretary/Treasurer 1, 4-5

Senior Vice President Commercial Banking Regional HeadFirst Midwest Bank

Don Babcock, Chair Elect 1, 3-5

Director of Economic DevelopmentNIPSCO

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

Don Babcock 1, 3-5

Economic Development Committee ChairDirector of Economic DevelopmentNIPSCO

Cal Bellamy 1-5

Audit Committee ChairPartnerKrieg DeVault

James Flannery 1, 4-5

Environmental Affairs ChairStrategic Planning ChairDirector of DevelopmentHeartland Pump and Process

Dewey Pearman 1, 4-5

Membership ChairExecutive DirectorConstruction Advancement Foundation

Jill E. Ritchie 1, 5

Public Policy LiasionManager Public Policy & Governmental AffairsUnited States Steel Corporation-Gary Works

James Jorgensen 1, 3, 5

Governance ChairAttorneyHoeppner, Wagner & Evans

DIRECTORS

Speros BatistatosPresident & CEOSouth Shore Convention & Visitors Authority

Howard CohenChancellorPurdue University Calumet

Chris CurryDirectorGary/Chicago International Airport

Gene Diamond 4

Regional Chief Executive OfficerSisters of St. Francis Health Services, Inc.

George Douglas 4

Chief Operating Officer/General ManagerNorth Coast Distributing

Lawrence F. FabinaManager, Continuous ImprovementArcelorMittal Burns Harbor

Thomas Galovic 4, 5

Executive DirectorRegional Development Company

Bill HannaExecutive DirectorNorthwest Indiana Regional Development Authority

Tim Healy 4

Senior Vice PresidentHolladay Properties at Ameriplex

Tom KeilmanDirector of Public AffairsBP Whiting Refinery

Henry LampePresidentChicago SouthShore & South Bend Railroad

Leigh MorrisChairNorthwest Indiana Regional Development Authority

William NangleExecutive EditorThe Times

Craig PrattMarket PresidentFifth Third Bank

Jim StatonRegional DirectorIndiana Economic Development Corporation

Scott SteinwartSenior Vice PresidentChase, Middle Market Division

John SwansonDirectorNorthwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission

Olga VelazquezMayorCity of Portage

Ed VolkPresidentLaPorte Municipal Airport Authority

Bill Wellman 4

Senior Vice President of CommunicationsWhiteco Industries, Inc.

Linda WoloshanskyPresidentCenter of Workforce Innovations

Committee Assignments

1 Executive Committee

2 Audit Committee

3 Governance Committee

4 Membership Committee5 Strategic Planning Committee

NORTHWEST INDIANA FORUM2009 MANAGING BOARD

2009 Annual Review l 11

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Don Babcock, ChairNIPSCOBen ClementCity of Gary/Empowerment ZoneHeather EnnisChesterton/Duneland EDC/ChamberHoward FinkTown of MerrillvilleTom GalovicRegional Development CorporationTim GroppGreater LaPorte Economic Development CorporationDenarie KaneCity of HobartRobert KarkCity of WhitingKevin KieftMichigan City Economic Development CorporationBeth JacobsenCity of HammondPeter LamanPorts of IndianaDave LasserCommercial In-sitesChristopher MeyersCity of GaryMatt MurphyCity of ValparaisoCecile PetroHighland Redevelopment CommissionAshley PortaTown of MunsterCynthia PruittIndiana Economic Development CorporationRex RichardsCity of Valparaiso/Valparaiso ChamberJohn RegetzMichigan City Economic Development CorporationJoel RodriguezCity of GaryTerra SamuelCity of East ChicagoJim StatonIndiana Economic Development CorporationChris StidhamPortage Economic Development CorporationJohn SwansonNorthwestern Indiana Regional Planning CommissionAfrica TarverCity of HammondDiane ThalmannNIPSCOCharles WeaverStarke County Development Foundation

ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS

Doug Bley, ChairArcelorMittal USAJames Flannery, ChairHeartland Pump & ProcessFred AndesBarnes & ThornburgDave BehrensUnited States Steel CorpBruce CarterBruce Carter & Associates, LLCBarbara CoughlinEnvironRob CrookstonMicrobac LaboratoriesRon DippoBPKevin DoyleArcelorMittal USA, Indiana HarborMike GolandoCargillPatrick GormanEnvironmental Process Technologies, Inc.Vince GriffinIndiana Chamber of CommerceRobert GyurkoGary/Chicago International AirportPeter LamanPorts of IndianaRob MacielArcelorMittal USA, Burns HarborMike MaxwellWeaver Boos ConsultantsDan PlathNiSourceGary L. PowdrillQuality Environmental Professionals Inc.Mark Reshkin Professor Emeritus Indiana University NorthwestJohn RossNiSourceMark StrimbuNiSourceTimothy ThompsonBPLinda WilsonBPVicki WrightKrieg DeVaultDenny ZawodniSafety Kleen

GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS

Jill E. Ritchie, ChairUnited States Steel Corporation-Gary WorksDon BabcockNIPSCOSperos BatistatosSouth Shore Convention and Visitors AuthorityKarl CenderCender & CompanyGene DiamondSisters of St. Francis Healthcare SystemGeorge DouglasNorth Coast DistributingGreg GomolkaComcast Cable CommunicationsTim HealyHolladay PropertiesJames JorgensenHoeppner, Wagner & EvansTom KeilmanBPRich MarkwartConsultantLeigh MorrisNorthwest Indiana Regional Development AuthorityDewey PearmanConstruction Advancement FoundationCecile PetroTown of HighlandPat PullaraGNIARRex RichardsCity of Valparaiso Chamber of CommerceJon SchmaltzBurke, Costanza & CuppyRobert SuperPrecision DevelopmentJohn SwansonNorthwestern Indiana Regional Planning CommissionDave VanDykePrecision ConstructionCurtis A. WhittakerWhittaker & CompanySusan ZlajicArcelorMittal USA

NORTHWEST INDIANA FORUM2009 COMMITTEE MEMBERS

11 l 2009 Annual Review

As with most organizations, the downturn in the economy has affected Forum financially. In 2008 and 2009 we carefully monitored our income, recruited sponsorships, and made operational adjustments by scaling back ex-penses to move with the changing economy.

NORTHWEST INDIANA FORUM/FOUNDATIONSTATEMENT OF FINANCE

Rob GardinerFirst Midwest Bank

ASSETS 2007 2008 2009Cash 221,166 242,444 261,464Accounts Receivable 271,977 223,916 219,848Property & Equipment 20,426 14,559 7,232Total Assets 513,569 480,919 488,544LIABILITIES & NET ASSETS Liabilities Accounts Payable 6,808 1,894 996Deferred Revenue 309,652 260,400 248,900Total Liabilities 316,433 262,294 249,896Net Assets Unrestricted 182,136 203,652 198,648Temporarily Restricted 15,000 15,000 40,000Total Net Assets 197,136 218,625 238,648Total Assets and Liabilities 513,569 480,919 488,544REVENUE AND SUPPORTGrant Revenue 60,000 60,000 85,000Membership Dues 601,400 655,275 618,925Events/Sponsorship 8,460 20,500Contributions 57,202Interest Income 1,689 650 69Miscellaneous Income 21,888 10,255 255Total Revenue & Support 693,437 746,680 761,451EXPENSES Environment 66,007 67,005 67,005Events/Sponsorship Expense 18,184 43,536 6,005South Shore Arts 145Public Relations 8330 4,681 4,359Membership Services 280,518 336,375 346,537General & Administrative 246,974 273,594 317,522Total Expenses 620,158 725,191 741,428Change in Net Assets 73,279 21,489 20,023Net assets (deficit) at beginning of year 123,857 197,136 218,625Net assets (deficit) at end of year 197,136 218,652 238,648

The 2009 Audit was clean. This is a testament to the Board and staff for diligent accounting pro-cesses as well as attention to detail. The Forum prudently maintains a reserve and spends wisely to accomplish our goals.

Cal BellamyKreig DeVault

6100 Southport Road • Portage, Indiana 46369219/763-6303 • 800/NWFORUMFax 219/763-2653www.nwiforum.org