{"id":343,"date":"2012-06-30T19:28:09","date_gmt":"2012-06-30T19:28:09","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.websitefix.net\/clients\/Generic\/?page_id=343"},"modified":"2020-08-28T16:28:28","modified_gmt":"2020-08-28T16:28:28","slug":"west-valley","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/NWIndy3\/?page_id=343","title":{"rendered":"Lake County, IN"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><strong>NORTHWEST INDIANA<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>LAKE COUNTY, IN<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>County Offices<\/strong><br \/>\n2293 North Main Street<br \/>\nCrown Point, IN 219-755-3000<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.lakecountyin.org\/\">www.lakecountyin.org<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n839 Broadway<br \/>\nGary, IN 219-885-7407<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.garychamber.com\/\">www.garychamber.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p>With the city of Gary as its largest  community and Crown Point as the seat of government, Lake County is a study on  contrasts. Long-established industrial cities that emerged as mighty steel-mill  centers combine with sleepy villages and small towns for a kaleidoscope of  settings and lifestyles. Taking as its slogan, &#8220;The environment that means  business,&#8221; Lake County is a proud recipient of the Association of Indiana  Counties Outstanding Achievement Award. Lake County is perched in the extreme  northwest corner of Indiana. Borders include shimmering Lake Michigan to the  north, Porter County to the east, Jasper County to the southeast, and the state  of Illinois to the west. Important thoroughfares that serve the area include Interstate  80-94, Interstate 65, and US Highways 30 and 41. Mass transit options  facilitate commutes to regional employment centers, including passenger rail  service into Chicago<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Services<\/strong><br \/>\nState-of-the-art healthcare is  available throughout Lake County in a comprehensive network of facilities and  services that are anchored by major hospitals and medical centers. Gary is the  home of Methodist Hospital, which provides specialties and centers of  excellence in spinal injuries, neurosurgery, cancer care, maternal and child  health, gerontology, hip replacement surgery, and cardiac care. The Saint  Margaret Mercy Healthcare Centers system provides the largest acute-care  hospital complex in Northwest Indiana, with campuses in Hammond and Dyer. The  system also encompasses more than 20 off-site locations and a health club that  serves thousands of members. Other leading hospitals close to home for  residents of Lake County include St. Anthony Medical Center in Crown Point,  Community Hospital in Munster, St. Mary Medical Center in Hobart, and St.  Catherine Hospital in East Chicago. The latter three institutions are part of  the Community Healthcare System, a premier provider of facilities and services  to residents of Northwest Indiana.<\/p>\n<p>Education is viewed as a lifelong pursuit  in Lake County, where public and private institutions cater to students of all  ages. The Gary Community School System is the largest of the region&#8217;s  districts, encompassing special education facilities, a career center, the  Lincoln Achievement Center, Martin Luther King Jr. Academy, and the Emerson  School of Visual &amp; Performing Arts Center. Higher education is available  close to home, from two-year institutions like Ivy Tech State College to Purdue  Calumet in Hammond, Calumet College of St. Joseph in Whiting, Indiana  University Northwest in Gary, and Valparaiso University in Valparaiso. Crown  Point is also home to the private Baptist institution of&nbsp; Hyles Anderson College. Students can choose  from an impressive variety of degree and certification programs as well as  graduate, post-graduate, and professional studies.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Lifestyle<\/strong><br \/>\nFrom the cultural enrichment provided  by its college and university campuses to picturesque marinas and championship  golf courses, Lake County provides a self-contained world of attractions and  amenities. Lake Street shopping in Gary is only blocks from Lake Street beach  and the water sports of Lake Michigan. Lined with unique shops and galleries,  this unique district harmonizes with modern malls and regional shopping centers  in retail hubs like Merrillville and Hobart. The suburbs that were once  considered to be bedroom communities for Gary\u2014Merrillville, Hammond, and East  Chicago\u2014have emerged as vibrant business and commercial centers in their own  right. While Chicago&#8217;s world-class advantages are easily accessible, dining  opportunities from elegant to casual combine with popular entertainment centers  right in Lake County. The stars are shining throughout the calendar year at the  Holiday Star Theater, while the Genesis Convention Center hosts a medley of  special events from sports to concerts.<\/p>\n<p>The county manages ten parks that  include 3,400 acres of woodlands and green belts for hiking, walking, biking,  and cross-country skiing. Outdoor enjoyment, relaxation, and recreation are  also available in city-owned parks, Lake Michigan beaches, and regional natural  areas that support fishing and hunting. Indiana&#8217;s premier summer playground,  Deep River Waterpark, is located approximately 30 minutes from Northwest  Indiana and Chicago Southland communities. Facilities throughout the county  include championship golf courses, tennis courts, sports fields and courts,  fitness centers, boat ramps, playgrounds, and nature trails. In recent years,  Lake County has become a favored getaway for residents of Chicago and its  suburbs who are drawn to the region&#8217;s shoreline and exciting casino resorts for  relaxation and recreation. Colorful celebrations and festivals contribute to  community spirit and serve as additional magnets for the growing tourism  industry. Community theater, historic sites, fine museums, galleries, auto  racing, u-pick farms, antique malls, and the sprawling expanse of the Indiana  Dunes are just a few of the countless reasons that Lake County is a preferred  place to call home in Chicago Southland.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Cedar Lake<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Municipal Offices<\/strong><br \/>\n219-374-7400<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.cedarlakein.org\/\">www.cedarlakein.org<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n219-374-6157<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.cedarlakechamber.com\">www.cedarlakechamber.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p>In the days when Crown Point was heralded  as the &#8220;marriage capital&#8221; of Indiana, it was the beautiful Cedar Lake  where couples often spent their honeymoon. This historic town claims the focal  point of an 800-acre lake, which made it a popular summer vacation destination  for Chicago residents around the turn of the century. As late as the 1920s, the  area bustled with hotels and steamboat tour lines. The largest structure  remaining from that era is the Lake of the Red Cedars Museum. The 1950s saw  several big-band dance halls spring up along the shoreline, including the  popular Midway Ballroom that was destroyed by fire as late as 1987. While the  heyday of the town as a tourist attraction has passed, newcomers to modern  Cedar Lake will enjoy the small-town atmosphere and a variety of housing options  from cozy cottages to newer construction. Local parks and a community center  provide facilities for parties, meetings, picnics, and swimming. The town is  also home to the 110-acre campus for the private Baptist institution of  Hyles-Anderson College.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Crown Point<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Municipal Offices<\/strong><br \/>\n219-662-3250<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.crownpoint.in.gov\/\">https:\/\/www.crownpoint.in.gov\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n219-769-8180<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/cpchamber.org\/\">https:\/\/cpchamber.org\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Located in close proximity to Interstate  65 and Chicago&#8217;s world-class attractions, Crown Point blends suburban and rural  areas that cater to many lifestyles. The quaint town square features shops with  handmade crafts and antiques as well as popular restaurants. Elegant Victorian  homes surrounding the square add to the charm of the downtown district and the  entire community. The crowning architectural treasure is &#8220;The Grand Old  Lady,&#8221; the 1878 courthouse that has served as a landmark for Lake County  through the decades. During the 1920s and &#8217;30s, Crown Point was known as the  &#8220;marriage mill&#8221; because no waiting period was required for marriage  licenses. Ronald Reagan, Rudolph Valentino, and Muhammad Ali are among the  famous people who were married in Crown Point. With its hometown feeling, Crown  Point remains a family-oriented city with good schools, abundant recreational  facilities and opportunities, cultural enrichment, a major healthcare  institution, and wonderful neighborhoods. The close-knit spirit of the  community is embodied in the many colorful festivals and celebrations that  bring family, friends, and neighbors together. Thriving businesses, active  social and civic clubs, and an ideal location along Interstate 65 have gained  Crown Point a reputation as a wonderful place to live and raise a family.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Dyer<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Municipal Offices<\/strong><br \/>\n219-865-6108<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.townofdyer.com\/\">www.townofdyer.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n219-365-4686<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/stjohndyerchamber.com\/\">https:\/\/stjohndyerchamber.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Situated along the Illinois state line  and nestled in a rolling landscape, the fast-growing town of Dyer lies 15 miles  south of Lake Michigan. Sprawling over six square miles, the town has developed  green space and recreational facilities in a dozen parks that total nearly 77  acres. Healthcare plays a vital role in the local economy, since Dyer is home  to a campus for Saint Margaret Mercy Healthcare Centers. A nursing center  represents another major employer, although several other thriving companies  are located in Dyer. Preserving the heritage of yesterday while maintaining a  progressive attitude, the town is home to a branch of the Lake County library  system and many active groups and clubs that enhance the quality of life.  Residents enjoy the convenience of a branch library in the Lake County Library  system. Boating and water-sport enthusiasts as well as anglers will find a  natural paradise in the Lake Michigan shoreline and waters near Dyer.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>East Chicago<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Municipal Offices<\/strong><br \/>\n219-391-8200<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.eastchicago.com\/\">www.eastchicago.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n219-931-1000<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.lakeshorechamber.com\/\">www.lakeshorechamber.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Often called the &#8220;Workshop of the  World,&#8221; East Chicago is an exceptionally diverse and cooperative community  of hard-working residents\u2014many of whom are employed by local businesses and  industrial firms. The city is proud of is working-class heritage and its strong  steel-industry roots. Bordered by the deep waters and picturesque shoreline of  Lake Michigan, East Chicago also offers an extensive park system that  encompasses sports fields and courts, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a  community center with performance stage. The city is one of the first truly  industrial centers in Northwest Indiana and was originally called the Twin  City. A rail yard once split the western section of the community from the  Indiana Harbor area. Creating a microcosm of Chicago or even New York City, the  community has evolved from yesterday&#8217;s melting pot where four out of five  residents were foreign born. One of the most famous remnants of the past is the  Marktown Historic District, a 1917 enclave of elegant Tudor Revival homes with  English Garden City styling. Scenic marinas, public launch ramps, fishing piers  and popular &#8220;floating casinos&#8221; add water-oriented recreation\u2014both  indoors and under the bright blue skies.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Gary<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Municipal Offices<\/strong><br \/>\n219-881-1300<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/gary.gov\/\">https:\/\/gary.gov\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n219-885-7407<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.garychamber.com\/\">www.garychamber.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p>The bustling metropolitan city of Gary  serves as the hub of Northwest Indiana, just minutes from downtown Chicago.  Lake Michigan and three major interstates are among the transportation assets  for residents and businesses alike. Situated at the northern end of Lake County,  Gary offers everything from lakefront beauty to championship golf courses and  outstanding shopping. Some of the most famous of the architectural treasures in  the city are the statues that grace public places, the Gary Bathing Beach  Aquatorium, Marquette Pavilion, and a number of Frank Lloyd Wright homes. The  vintage Westside historic district reflects a variety of architectural styles  in homes that were originally part of a 1906 &#8220;company town&#8221; built by  U.S. Steel. More modern attractions include the Gary Steelheads baseball team  and beautiful recreational beaches. Water sports, fishing, golfing, live state  performances, popular casinos, and a pulsating nightlife have made Gary  attractive to visitors as well as to newcomers. Alive with culture and history,  Gary is shifting from its steel-industry past into a progressive future that  relies heavily on high technology.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Griffith<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Municipal Offices<\/strong><br \/>\n219-924-7500<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.griffith.in.gov\">www.griffith.in.gov<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n219-923-3666<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/highlandgriffithchamber.com\/\">http:\/\/highlandgriffithchamber.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Founded in 1854 and incorporated around  the turn of the century, the well-established community of Griffith boasts 60  miles of streets in a compact seven-square-mile area. Housing styles are varied  and reflect the architectural styling of their periods. Residents enjoy a  kaleidoscope of recreational facilities that include lush parks with picnic  pavilions, volleyball courts, a bandstand, historic sites, play areas for children,  and multi-purpose trails. Central Park often doubles as a venue for special  events and celebrations like The Park Full of Art and the Gospel Fest. Those  who prefer a serene environment for nature study will enjoy Hoosier Prairie  Nature Preserve, an ideal retreat for bird watching or quiet walks along scenic  trails. The county manages Oak Ridge Prairie with its picnic pavilions, fishing  pond, and trails. Residents take pride in their properties and are active in  organizations that promote beautification.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Hammond<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Municipal Offices<\/strong><br \/>\n219-853-6300<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.gohammond.com\/\">www.gohammond.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n219-931-1000<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.lakeshorechamber.com\/\">www.lakeshorechamber.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p>The bustling university town of Hammond  offers a well-developed suburban environment that incorporates residential,  commercial, business, and industrial sectors. The Jean Shepherd Community  Center provides a focal point for the community and a place to enjoy the arts,  athletics, and nature. Wolf Lake Park features scenic Wolf Lake, one of the  finest sites for windsurfing in the region. The park combines with Lake Front  Park and Hammond Marina Beach to ensure abundant opportunities for outdoor  adventure and water sports. Other leisure-time facilities and activities  include swimming pools, tennis courts, volleyball, sports leagues, a fitness  center, aerobics classes, bowling, environmental education, ballroom dancing,  and a municipal golf course. Purdue University Calumet, community theater, a  lively downtown district, a revitalized commercial sector, a major hospital  campus, good schools, and quality services keep Hammond at the forefront of  growth and development. The housing selection is diverse, ranging from historic  homes and modest bungalows to newer construction.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Highland<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Municipal Offices<\/strong><br \/>\n219-838-1080<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.highland.in.gov\/\">www.highland.in.gov<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n219-923-3666<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/highlandgriffithchamber.com\/\">http:\/\/highlandgriffithchamber.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Featuring a town square gazebo that  serves as a focal point for community events and outdoor productions, Hammond  offers a close-knit atmosphere. The town intersperses residential neighborhoods  with lush green space and recreational amenities in a number of parks. Residents  can also take advantage of affordable golfing at the municipal course. Nearby  Merrillville with its strong retail sector and Munster with a community  hospital and performing and visual arts center add to the quality of life.  Other nearby attractions include performances by the Northwest Indiana  Symphony, the world-class arts community in Chicago, and the concert halls and  cultural enrichment provided by area colleges and universities. The vast  expanse of Indiana Dunes State Park is available only 25 miles from home,  including the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. Often compared to Arizona&#8217;s  Grand Canyon in the scope of its majesty, the Indiana Dunes region is a  naturalist&#8217;s paradise. Hammond offers a location in close proximity to major  interstate highways for quick commutes.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Hobart City<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Municipal Offices<\/strong><br \/>\n219-942-1940<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.cityofhobart.org\">www.cityofhobart.org<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n219-942-5774<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.hobartchamber.com\/\">www.hobartchamber.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Newcomers to Hobart will discover a  community that blends the finest aspects of urban convenience with the  relaxation and slower place of country living. Public and private schools,  employment opportunities, medical services, expanded shopping opportunities,  and lively options for entertainment and recreation are all close to home.  Hobart joins Merrillville to form the retail center of Northwest Indiana along  Interstate 65 just minute from Gary. Modern malls feature popular restaurants,  cafes, eateries, entertainment, specialty shops, and leading department stores  to attract regional customers. The cultural center of the Midwest is just a  45-minute drive away in downtown Chicago, home to professional sports teams,  world-class zoos, museums, theatres, five-star dining, and high fashion. With  its quiet lifestyle and strategic location, Hobart offers the best of all  worlds. Excellent access to major roadways, railways, airports, and waterways  like the Port of Indiana combine with a natural setting and rural charm for a  rare quality of life. Deep River Park with its historic mill is a major  recreational site close to home.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Lake Station<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Municipal Offices<\/strong><br \/>\n219-962-2081<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.lakestation-in.gov\/\">www.lakestation-in.gov<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n219-885-7407<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.garychamber.com\/\">www.garychamber.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p>The community of Lake Station was the  site of a major steel operation at the turn of the century. At one time, the  town was marketed as &#8220;East Gary&#8221; to attract executives and managers  to a bedroom community atmosphere. Even today, the city remains primarily  residential and boasts a rich history. Locally, Lake Station is known as the  crossroads of America because of the easy access to interstate 80\/94, the  Indiana toll road, and Lake Michigan. According to oral history, Lake Station  welcomed Abraham Lincoln as a guest of the Audubon Hotel on more than one  occasion. Selected as a Millennium Community by Indiana&#8217;s governor, the  community has initiated projects that will preserve its heritage, revitalize today&#8217;s  infrastructure, and ensure a bright future. Planners are interested in  promoting the advantages of Lake Station as an ideal location for quality  business and industry that might be attracted to the city&#8217;s undeveloped land.  The cooperative attitude marking the new millennium is enabling the city to  move forward in an atmosphere of careful planning. Interstate 65 runs along the  city&#8217;s western boundary, with Interstates 80, 90, and 94 accessible along the  northern boundary.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Lowell<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Municipal Offices<\/strong><br \/>\n219-696-7794<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.lowell.net\/\">www.lowell.net<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n219-696-0231<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/lowellinchamber.co\/\">https:\/\/lowellinchamber.co\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p>The welcoming, small community of  Lowell stretches over a 4.5-square-mile area to balance residential  neighborhoods with retail activity and professional services from banks to  physicians and dentists. Several of the industries in the town employ several  hundred employees, adding the possibility of local employment to the list of  Lowell&#8217;s advantages. The economic mix includes service-oriented businesses,  several wholesale traders, and scores of retail establishments. The degree of  development in a town of the size of Lowell seems less unusual in light of the  surrounding area. Lowell provides a commercial hub for residents of surrounding  townships including West Creek, Cedar Creek, and Eagle Creek. Residents enjoy a  kaleidoscope of outdoor adventures and recreational opportunities that include  golfing, boating, fishing, and water sports on Cedar Lake and Kankakee River.  Local celebrations and festivities range from historic battle reenactments to  Oktoberfest and holiday events. Private country clubs, an active parks and  recreation department, civic and social clubs, and county parkland add to the  quality of life.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Merrillville<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Municipal Offices<\/strong><br \/>\n219-769-5711<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.merrillville.in.gov\/\">www.merrillville.in.gov<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n219-769-8180<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.crossroadschamber.org\">www.crossroadschamber.org<\/a><\/p>\n<p>The sprawling community of Merrillville  enjoys a strategic location at the center of several major transportation  links. At one time, the unincorporated communities of Merrillville, Rexville,  Lottaville, Ainsworth, Turkey Creek, Ross, and Deep River were all governed by  Ross Township. In 1971, this collection of small communities united to form the  incorporated town of Merrillville. Along with Hobart, Merrillville has evolved  into a retail hub for Northwest Indiana and the home of a regional mall. The  town also offers a major healthcare institution, an expansive library, and an  abundance of lush parkland. Within the town boundaries are more than two dozen  local parks, a Lake County park, and a state park. Private and public golf  courses and nearby lakes appeal to outdoor enthusiasts, while families  appreciate easy access to quality facilities in neighborhood parks from picnic  areas to playgrounds and sports fields. Attractions in Gary, Crown Point,  Hobart, and Schererville are all available within minutes from Merrillville.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Munster<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Municipal Offices<\/strong><br \/>\n219-836-6900<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.munster.org\">www.munster.org<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n219-836-5549<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.munsterchamber.org\">www.munsterchamber.org<\/a><\/p>\n<p>The distinctive quality of life that  characterizes the community of Munster may seem very natural, but it represents  careful planning over several decades of growth and development. Residents and  civic leaders share pride in the considerable attributes and assets of Munster,  including attractive neighborhoods, lush parks, an active spirit of  volunteerism, exemplary services, blue-ribbon schools, and a healthy local  economy. Although the region that surrounds Munster greatly expands the  opportunities for cultural enrichment, Munster is home to the first-rate Center  for Visual and Performing Arts. Residents are able to meet routine and many  specialized healthcare needs around the corner from home at a community  hospital that combines advanced technologies with personalized care. The town  has become an increasingly attractive choice for businesses, individuals, and  families who are drawn to the ideal location and appreciate the proud spirit  that continues to mold and guide the community.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>New Chicago<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Municipal Offices<\/strong><br \/>\n219-962-1157<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.townofnewchicago.org\">www.townofnewchicago.org<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n219-942-5774<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.hobartchamber.com\/\">www.hobartchamber.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p>The small town of New Chicago provides  an intimate community environment surrounded by several highly development  cities and urban centers. The retail hub of Hobart and the primarily  residential haven of Lake Station are both neighbors of New Chicago. Not far  from home, Gary provides an exceptional retail district of unique shops and  restaurants as well as major performing arts centers, historic sites, fine  museums, and popular galleries. Those who are looking for a hometown setting  where neighbors greet each other by name and stop to talk on evening strolls or  from front porches will want to explore the housing opportunities in New  Chicago. Regional recreational amenities are outstanding including aquatics,  tennis, golf, sports leagues, and virtually unlimited outdoor adventures in  vast parkland and national preserves. Several colleges and universities are  available close to home, including Indiana University Northwest in Gary and  Purdue University Calumet in Hammond.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Saint John<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Municipal Offices<\/strong><br \/>\n219-365-6465<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.stjohnin.com\/\">www.stjohnin.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n219-365-4686<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/stjohndyerchamber.com\/\">https:\/\/stjohndyerchamber.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Characterized by rapid growth and  expansion, St. John provides a relaxed country atmosphere, the open space of  picturesque farmland, and the world-class resources of major metropolitan centers  within a reasonable commute. Interstates 80, 94, 65, and 90 ensure a quick trip  to surrounding cities including Chicago, Gary, Hammond, and Merrillville.  Regional malls, college and university campuses, professional sports, leading  employment centers, and major hospitals are only minutes from a St. John  address. Because of the town&#8217;s rare blend of &#8220;town and country,&#8221; St.  John is a magnet for new suburban residents who enjoy an above-average income  level. These consumers, in turn, create a demand for upscale commercial  development and quality services. Residential developments are on the rise,  blending beautiful new subdivisions and upscale homes with well-kept  traditional neighborhoods. Golfing, tennis, fishing, boating, camping, hiking,  biking, and sports play are common pastimes.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Schererville<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Municipal Offices<\/strong><br \/>\n219-322-2211<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.schererville.org\/\">www.schererville.org<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n219-322-5412<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/scherervillechamber.org\/\">https:\/\/scherervillechamber.org<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Often called the &#8220;crossroads of  the nation,&#8221; Schererville has benefited from an ideal location at the  intersection of important thoroughfares. From the trails made by the first  settlers to the modern highways of 30 and 41, the town is well positioned for growth  and development. Planners are dedicated to keeping pace with the demands made  by new residents, including additions to the school system and a solid  infrastructure. Several private schools, both parochial and independent, expand  the alternatives for parents. The town is proud of its rich history, including  the 1866 incorporation with only 25 families. From its German agricultural  roots, the community has diversified and expanded into a balanced, mid-sized  town with a family-oriented atmosphere. Local shops, eateries, a new Town Hall  complex, excellent schools, golf courses regional malls, and nearby hospitals  ensure a high quality of life. Abundant parks feature sports facilities and  green space for programs and activities, although close proximity to Indiana  Dunes State Park greatly expands the opportunities for outdoor adventure and  water sports.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Schneider<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Municipal Offices<\/strong><br \/>\n219-552-0661<\/p>\n<p><strong>Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n219-769-8180<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.crossroadschamber.org\/\">https:\/\/www.crossroadschamber.org\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>The tiny town of Schneider is home to  only a few hundred residents who enjoy a rural location near the LaSalle Fish  &amp; Wildlife Area and Kankakee River. Water-sports and boating enthusiasts  enjoy close proximity to regional recreational destinations including Beaver  Lake, Conrad Savanna, and Cedar Lake. The communities of Lowell and Crown Point  are nearby, adding valuable services and conveniences from healthcare centers  to retail and commercial development. Nature students will want to explore Beaver  Lake Nature Preserve, covering 640 acres with the beauty of prairie flowers and  grasses as well as stands of cottonwoods and beautiful savannas. Housing  opportunities in the Schneider area range from quaint farmhouses and country  homes to modest bungalows in the heart of town. Newcomers who dream of a rural  lifestyle in Indiana&#8217;s farm country will find a friendly hometown within a  reasonable commute from the finest amenities and attractions in the Midwest.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Whiting<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Municipal Offices<\/strong><br \/>\n219-659-7700<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.whitingindiana.com\/\">www.whitingindiana.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n219-659-0292<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.whitingindiana.com\/\">www.whitingindiana.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p>One of the best-kept secrets in  Northwest Indiana lies on the south shore of Lake Michigan, a city that emerged  with railroading and steel activity in the late 1800s. Whiting claims the  distinction of historic architecture including an Andrew Carnegie Library and  the Hoosier Theatre as well as elegant &#8220;character&#8221; homes shaded by  ancient trees. Many of the streets in the heart of town bear the names of the  city&#8217;s founders, and the commercial district harmonizes unique shops with  family-owned businesses. The rich heritage of the Whiting area is colorfully  displayed in diverse festivals and celebrations, parades, summer concerts, and  special events throughout the year. In addition to beautiful well-kept older  homes, newer construction in modern subdivisions is also available. Some of the  new homes in Whiting are only a five-minute walk from Lake Michigan, while  others command spectacular views near the city&#8217;s Lakefront Park and a county  beach. Lush local parks, a local library, a private college, attractive and  affordable housing, and vast recreational opportunities ensure a rare quality  of life in a serene hometown atmosphere just four miles from several interstate  highways.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Winfield, Lakes of the Four Seasons<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Municipal Offices<\/strong><br \/>\n219-662-2665<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.winfieldgov.com\/\">www.winfieldgov.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Community Association<\/strong><br \/>\nLakes of the Four Seasons<br \/>\n219-988-2581<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.lofs.org\/\">www.lofs.org<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n219-769-8180<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.crossroadschamber.org\/\">https:\/\/www.crossroadschamber.org\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Graced by the natural beauty of two  lakes, the communities of Winfield and Lakes of the Four Seasons are located  near the growing community of Crown Point. Highly respected Crown Point schools  serve this area, and the opportunities for higher education close to home range  from technical and career institutions to major state universities like Indiana  University Northwest and Purdue University Calumet. Lakes of the Four Seasons  is actually the newer and larger of the two communities, although it remains  unincorporated. This gated development located halfway between Crown Point and  Valparaiso encompasses a championship golf course, lush parks, playgrounds,  athletic fields, tennis courts, beaches, a swimming pool, restaurants, and a  well-equipped clubhouse. The community boasts many active clubs and  organizations that add to the close-knit spirit and opportunities for social  interaction. The community is professionally managed in concert with the  property owners association. Regional malls, shopping centers, performing art  centers, and leading hospitals are all located close to home.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>NORTHWEST INDIANA LAKE COUNTY, IN County Offices 2293 North Main Street Crown Point, IN 219-755-3000 www.lakecountyin.org Chamber of Commerce 839 Broadway Gary, IN 219-885-7407 www.garychamber.com With the city of Gary as its largest community and Crown Point as the seat of government, Lake County is a study on contrasts. Long-established industrial cities that emerged as [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","template":"","meta":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/NWIndy3\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/343"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/NWIndy3\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/NWIndy3\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/NWIndy3\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/NWIndy3\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=343"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/NWIndy3\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/343\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":692,"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/NWIndy3\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/343\/revisions\/692"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/NWIndy3\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=343"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}