Valparaiso’s Grand Gardner Hotel combines local history and innovative amenities to create a premier hotel experience
- By: Garrett Spoor
- Last Updated: April 2, 2026
Just over two years ago, Valparaiso made a commitment to bring a historic landmark in the community back to life when it started construction on its Grand Gardner Hotel. Built originally in 1899 as a schoolhouse in the heart of Valparaiso, the property has …
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VEDC Board Member Spotlight: Eric Johnson
- By: Claire Kenney
- Last Updated: February 1, 2026
Valparaiso Economic Development Corporation (VEDC) board member and newly appointed VEDC treasurer Eric Johnson is a long-time resident of Valparaiso. “I’ve been in Valpo for 29 years,” said Johnson. After being married at the chapel on Valparaiso …
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VEDC Board Member Spotlight: Jon Schmaltz
- By: Claire Kenney
- Last Updated: December 30, 2025
Since 2014, Jon Schmaltz, partner at Burke, Costanza and Carberry (BCC), has served as a board member for the Valparaiso Economic Development Corporation (VEDC). His work with the board fits perfectly with his appreciation and enthusiasm for Valparaiso and …
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Top 10 Business Articles on Valpo.Life in 2025
- By: Curtis Hankins, Philip Bolton, Garrett Spoor, Jennifer Arzola, Damon Modglin & Lauren Grasham
- Last Updated: December 18, 2025
A lot of business is conducted in Northern Indiana, and GreatNews.Life is there to capture the biggest moments. Whether that’s spotlighting some of the businesses making an impact on the day-to-day lives of those living in Northern Indiana or helping find …
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Valparaiso Economic Development Corporation highlights 2025 projects and previews five-year initiative update
- By: Garrett Spoor
- Last Updated: October 31, 2025
The Valparaiso Economic Development Corporation (VEDC) invited its members, community investors, and leaders in Northwest Indiana to a breakfast gathering at Avalon Manor to discuss recent and upcoming projects. Dale Clapp, Chairman of the VEDC, recognizes …
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VEDC board member Randy Zromkoski advocates for continued growth paired with preservation
- By: Claire Kenney
- Last Updated: October 22, 2025
Randall “Randy” Zromkoski is passionate about preservation and its impact on Valparaiso. As a member of Valparaiso Economic Development Corporation’s (VEDC) board, Zromkoski has the opportunity to cultivate Valparaiso’s continued development and …
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Leadership and legacy: Longtime member Todd Etzler on the Valparaiso Economic Development Corporation
- By: Jennifer Arzola
- Last Updated: July 16, 2025
Behind Valparaiso’s thriving economy is a dedicated team of community volunteers working to ensure that growth benefits everyone. The Valparaiso Economic Development Corporation (VEDC) stands as a model of community-first leadership, where local …
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