Posted: 04 Oct 2009 01:38 AM PDT

(2 of 2)

The auto show was a big draw for families who used the exhibition as a place to shop for cars without running around from dealership to dealership, or dealing with a sales staff. Some carried around notebooks to write down names and prices; others brought cameras to photograph whatever they liked.

"I looked at the Forte, a 2010 model Kia, and the Civic, the good-old standby," said Samantha Clark, 18, of Middletown, who came with her mom, Myra Johnson, and nephews, Makail West, 7, Christian Walker, 5, and Marcus Cheatham, 3.

"I'm leaning more toward the Civic. But I haven't seen any Pontiacs yet," she said.

Other families just wanted to window shop, saying the crunch of a recession is putting their new-car fantasies in the slow lane for now.

"I just like looking at cars," said Wilmington resident John Ellikson Jr., who brought his teenage sons J.T. and Joey along. "I'm not in the market. I'm probably getting laid off in two weeks."

The Hanlon family -- Jacque, Kathy and their 4-year-old son, Jacque II -- checked out a gleaming white Volvo XC60.

"We come down every year," Jacque Hanlon said. "Just fun to drool and dream."

His favorite was a Jaguar sedan, while Kathy was smitten with a $50,000 Cobra.

"It's sharp, but who wants to spend the money?" she said.

Jason Roebke was having a daddy's day out with his young daughter Riley as the pair hopped inside a Chevrolet Traverse.

"We come to dream a little bit, but this inspires you," Roebke said. "I like the Traverse. It's a nice family car. It's sharp. Plus, it's American and that helps.

It seems Riley is destined to be one of those car-obsessed kind of girls. Even at 18 months old, she knows what she likes and gives an approving smile for the Traverse.

"She loves cars," her dad said. "So she wants to get into every single one. She's having a blast."

IF YOU GO

WHAT: 2009 Delaware Auto Show

WHERE: Center at the Riverfront

WHEN: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. today

TICKETS: $10. Children under 10 free.

SPECIAL GUEST: Jamaal Jackson, Philadelphia Eagles offensive lineman and former DSU Hornet. Noon to 1 p.m. today.

WEB: www.delawareautoshow.com.

Things to do - Post-Tribune

Posted: 01 Oct 2009 02:03 AM PDT

* Beginners genealogy workshop, 6:15 to 8:45 p.m. Wednesday, Hebron Branch of Porter County Public Library, 201 W. Sigler St., with Larry Clark, registration required, free, 996-3684

* Investment fraud program for seniors, 1 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 27, Munster Town Hall Main Meeting Room, register, 836-7275

* Chanticleer in concert, 8 p.m. Friday, Valparaiso University Chapel of the Resurrection, 1600 Chapel Drive, Valparaiso, 464-5162

* Autumn hayride, 6 p.m. Saturday, leaving Semento's, 1200 West St., Valparaiso, music by James Saqui, free, 21 or older with ID, 406-2085

* Parents without Partners Early Autumn Dance, 7:30 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Skwiat American Legion Post 451, 121 Skwiat Legion Ave., Michigan City, music by DJ and Da Bear, sponsored by Parents without Partners Chapter 193, $7 per person, 326-8096

* Arts and Crafts Show, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Lincoln Center, 2450 Lincoln St., Highland, with doll clothes, candles, afghans, fusion glass, jewelry, home decor and more, 838-0114

* Vendors needed for craft show and bake sale, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, St. James Church, 9640 Kennedy Ave., Highland, 924-1778

* Car wash benefit, 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Valparaiso High School, 2727 N. Campbell St., for a $5 donation or a bag of nonperishable goods, proceeds to Christian Food Pantry

* Free car care clinic, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Borowski Automotive Services, 101 S. Hobart Road, Hobart, free safety inspections, vehicle maintenance information, auto repair questions answered, 945-0570

* St. Francis Blessing of the Animals, 9 a.m. Saturday, Ridge United Methodist Church, 8067 Columbia Ave., Munster, pets should be leashed or in carriers, a love offering will be accepted for the Humane Society Calumet Area, 838-4770

* Feast of St. Francis Pet Blessing, 11 a.m. Saturday, St. Mary Church courtyard, 525 N. Broad St., Griffith, donations of Purina Dry dog/puppy and cat/kitten food, unflavored dog biscuits, large absorbent towels, laundry detergent, bleach, nonclumping cat litter, plastic litter pans as well as monetary donations are welcome for the Humane Society Calumet Area and Griffith Animal Shelter, 942-4163

* Third annual Blessing of the Animals, 2:30 p.m. Saturday, St. Andrew's Episcopal Church grounds, 503 Bullseye Lake Road, Valparaiso, leashed or caged pets of all faiths, denominations, breeds, sizes, healthy or ill, donations for the Porter County Animal Shelter are appreciated, 462-4946

* IUN Asia Day, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. today, Indiana University Northwest campus, 3400 Broadway, Gary, with traditional ethnic dress, music and dances from the Far East and South Asia, free Asian foods, 980-6934

* Tailgate party in honor of Chesterton High School Homecoming, 3 p.m. Friday, Chesterton/Duneland Chamber of Commerce, 220 Broadway, includes snacks, games, yard golf, beer and wine tent and a chili cookoff

* Valparaiso High School Homecoming Parade, 5:30 p.m. Friday, starting at Northview Elementary School, 257 Northview Drive, ending at Valparaiso High School, 2727 N. Campbell St., 477-2521

* Buckley Fall Festival, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Buckley Homestead, 3606 Belshaw Road, Lowell, with traditional crafts, demonstrations, entertainment and activities for everyone, $4 per person, age 7 and under admitted free, 769-7275

* Oktoberfest, noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, Beacon Hill Plaza on Broadway, Crown Point, with music by Mr. Funnyman, a chili cookoff and chili tasting, bean bag tournament, beer garden and children's activities, 662-3290

* Hootin' Hayride, 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Deep River County Park, Hobart, for ages 10 and up, $5 per person in advance, 769-7275

* Sams Indiana Travelers Chapter 96, Halloween Party, Friday, Oct. 16 to Sunday, Oct. 18, Last Resort Campground, Hanna, 844-8727

* Geocaching program, 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 17, DeMotte Public Library, 901 Birch St. SW, for all ages, GPS devices welcome, registration required, 987-2221

* Smart Chicks and Old Bags Auction and Sale, 7 p.m. Tuesday, Temple Beth-El, 10001 Columbia Ave., Munster, $3 per person, R.S.V.P., 923-1940, 922-9008

* Real Men Wear Pink fashion showcase and dinner, doors open at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 18, Genesis Convention Center, One Genesis Plaza, Gary, donation is $35 per person, proceeds to benefit scholarships and programs, 796-7902

* Friends of the Library Book Sale, 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. today Friends-only preview; public sale 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Kouts Branch of Porter County Public Library, 101 E. Daumer Road, 766-2271

* Rummage sale, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, First Unitarian Church of Hobart, 497 Main St., 942-1611

* Fall rummage and bake sale, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Ss. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Great Hall, 8000 Madison St., Merrillville, 696-4851

* USS Gary Sheet and Tin Retirees luncheon, noon today, Croatian Hall, 8550 Taft St., Merrillville, doors open at 11 a.m., ticket sales at 11:30 a.m., $13 per person, 962-3044, 663-5851

* Fish fry, 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Church of the Four Seasons United Methodist, 9100 E. 109th Ave., Winfield, $8.50 adults, $5 children age 5 to 12, under age 5 eat for free, 663-7803

* Fish fry dinner, 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, First United Methodist Church, 400 44th Place, Griffith, $9 adults, $3 age 12 and under, 838-6900

* Country breakfast, 7 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Fred Schmidt American Legion Post 20, 1401 N. Main St., Crown Point, $6 adults, $5 veterans and seniors age 55 and older, $3 age 6 to 15, children age 5 and under eat for free, 663-9788

* Valparaiso Lions Club hosts Nelson's Port-A-Pit Chicken and Ribs fundraiser, 10 a.m. until sold out Saturday, Kmart parking lot, 2801 Calumet Ave., $6 for grilled chicken halves, $9 for ribs, $3 potatoes, proceeds to purchase devices for the visually impaired and other community projects, visit www.valparaisoin.lionwap.org

* Firehouse breakfast fundraiser, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Lakes of the Four Seasons Fire Station, 3600, 10645 Randolph St., $6 adults, $3 for ages 3 to 12, with games for the kids, pictures with the fire trucks and reflective address plates for $15, 988-5394

* Deaf Services Inc. spaghetti dinner, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8, Jefferson Elementary School cafeteria, 6940 Northcote Ave., Hammond, $6 adults, $3 children under age 10

* Turkey Shoot, noon to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Oct. 25, American Legion Post 20, 1401 N. Main St., Crown Point, registration begins at 11:30 a.m., 663-2136

* Crazy Bunco, noon Sunday, St. Matthias Church, 101 W. Burrell Drive, Crown Point, $10 includes lunch

* Bingo, 1 p.m. Sunday, St. Joseph the Worker Church, 330 E. 45th Ave., Gary, with bake sale, food and door prizes, 942-0095

* Bingo, 1 p.m. Sunday, Faith United Church of Christ, 3030 175th St., Hammond, $3 master card and dessert; $10 full set-up, bring a canned good donation for the food pantry and become eligible for a special prize drawing, 374-7314

* Minority Health Coalition of LaPorte County Breast Cancer Walk, 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Lubeznik Center for the Arts, 101 W. 2nd St., Michigan City, 879-1712

* 5K Run and Fun Walk for Hunger, 9 a.m. registration and breakfast, Saturday, Oct. 17, Wicker Park, 8554 Indianapolis Blvd., Highland, $15 registration through 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16; $20 thereafter, proceeds to benefit Food Bank of Northwest Indiana, register at www.signmeup.com

* Not Scary Mini Golf, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. today through Saturday Oct. 31, Cedar Creek Family Golf Center, 14083 W. 109th Ave., Cedar Lake, open until 9 p.m. Oct. 23, 31; Oct. 24, 31, children in costumes receive a special treat, $5.50 adults, $4.50 age 12 and under, 365-2902

* Welcome Back Teen Dance, 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Portage Township YMCA, 3100 Willowcreek Road, Portage, for the first 150 sixth through eighth graders from any school, student ID required, $5 per person, 762-9622

* Holiday Fun Day, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15, Lakeshore Gymnastics and Dance, 878 W. Indiana Ave., Chesterton, 926-4274

* Covered Bridge Festival, Brown County, Wednesday through Friday, Oct. 9, $599 per person double occupancy, home pick-up and return, sponsored by Munster Parks, 836-7275

* "Man of LaMancha" at the Theatre at the Center, Munster, 1:45 p.m. departure Sunday, Oct. 11, from Whiting Community Center, $30 per person, sponsored by Whiting Parks Department, 659-0860

* New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 18 through Saturday, Oct. 24, with gaming at Harrah's Casino, $545 per person based on double occupancy, sponsored by the Cedar Lake Lioness Club, 563-8914, 374-9714

* Tunica Casino, Tennessee, Monday, Nov. 9 through Friday, Nov. 13, includes a tour of Graceland, sponsored by Highland Parks and Recreation, $395 per person, double occupancy, 838-0114

* Polonia Bus Trip to Chicago, 9 a.m. departure, 5:30 p.m. return Nativity of Our Savior Catholic Church, 2949 Willowcreek Road, Portage; 9:30 a.m. departure, 5 p.m. return, All Saints Catholic Church, Sibley Street, Hammond, $48 per person, reservation deadline Friday, Oct. 30, sponsored by the Polonica Pilgrimage Society, 947-7037, 921-0688

* Premium Outlet Mall, Fox Valley Mall and Hollywood Casino in Aurora, Ill., 8 a.m. departure, 8 p.m. return Saturday, Dec. 5, YWCA, 150 W. 15th Ave., Gary, sponsored by the Y's Single Club, $35 per person, 985-8040, 883-6053, 949-0927

* "Sleeping Handsome" 6:30 p.m. Oct. 2, 3, Hammond Civic Center, 5825 Sohl Ave., Hammond, a children's play, $5 adults, $2 students, (888) 210-7528

* "Made in Puerto Rico" 7 p.m. Friday, East Chicago Central High School, 1100 W. Columbus Drive, $12 in advance, $15 at the door; $10 students, 791-4926

* "Godspell," 8 p.m. Oct. 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17; 2 p.m. Oct. 4, 11, 18, Memorial Opera House, 104 Indiana Ave., Valparaiso, $18 adults; $15 senior citizens and, 548-9137

* "Picasso at the Lapin Agile," 8 p.m. Oct. 2, 3, 9, 10, Beatniks on Conkey, 418 Conkey St., Hammond, $12 per person, reservations recommended, 852-0848

* "Fuddy Meers," 8 p.m. Oct. 7, 8, 9; 2 p.m. Oct. 10, 11, Center for the Arts, 1709 Chapel Drive, $15 adults; $10 senior citizens and students, 464-5162

* "Is He Dead?," 8 p.m. Oct. 9, 10, 16, 17, 22, 23; 2:30 p.m. Oct. 17, 18, 24, Chicago Street Theatre, 154 W. Chicago St., Valparaiso, $15 adults; $12 senior citizens, students, veterans and groups, 464-1636

* "Arsenic and Old Lace," 7:30 p.m. Oct. 23, 24, 30, 31; 2 p.m. Oct. 25, Nov. 1, LaPorte Little Theatre Club, 218 "A" St., LaPorte, $10 per person, 362-5113

* "The Light in the Piazza," 8 p.m. Oct. 30, 31, Nov. 6, 7, 19, 20, 21; 3 p.m. Nov. 8, 22, 4th Street Theatre, 125 N. 4th St., Chesterton, $15 per person, 926-7875.

* Meals on Wheels needs drivers in the Portage area, 531-8106, 531-8006

* A. Philip Randolph Institute (APRI), Northwest Indiana Chapter, 11 a.m., fourth Saturday each month, McBride Union Hall, 1301 Texas St., Gary, 884-9469

* American Association of Retired Persons, noon, second Thursday each month, DuBois Library, 1900 Broadway, Gary, 882-2489

* American Legion Auxiliary Hobart Unit 54, 7 p.m. first Tuesday each month, Hobart American Legion Post Home, 208 S. Linda St., 947-2054

* American Legion Riders, 7 p.m. third Thursday each month, American Legion Post 17, 3926 Wright St., Gary, 931-6286

* Breakfast Kiwanis Club, 7:15 a.m. each Wednesday, Paragon Restaurant, 1701 E. 37th Ave., Hobart, visitors welcome, 791-0216

* Business Networking International (BNI), 7 to 8:30 a.m. each Tuesday, Round-the-Clock Restaurant, 1607 S. Calumet Road, Chesterton, reservations recommended, 926-2505

* Calumet Astronomical Society, 7:30 p.m. the second Monday of each month (except December), Lake Central High School large group instruction room, 8400 Wicker Ave., St. John, 924-7974

* Calumet Corner Chorus of Sweet Adelines International, 7 p.m. each Thursday, Christian Fellowship Church, 605 165th St., Hammond, 365-0160

* Calumet Stamp Club, 7 p.m. each Wednesday, Hammond Civic Center, 5825 Sohl Ave., southwest corner, lower level entrance, doors open at 6:30, 662-1296

* Card Sharks Bridge Club, 1 to 4 p.m. each Thursday, Tolleston Pavilion, 1709 Ellsworth Place, Gary, visitors welcome

* Chess Club for Adults, 6:30 to 11 p.m. each Tuesday, Meijer Cafe, 10138 Indianapolis Blvd., Highland, sets provided, bring chess clocks, 845-1376

* Chesterton Writers' Group, 3 to 5 p.m. each Saturday, Books Alive, 205 W. Indiana Ave., Chesterton, 926-4711

* Chorus of the Dunes, Barbershop Harmony Society, 7 p.m. each Tuesday, Pierce Middle School, 199 E. 70th Place, Merrillville, 838-6332

* County Line Leads Club, 12:15 p.m. each Wednesday, Impressions Cafe, 10859 Randolph St., Winfield, referral-based marketing club, R.S.V.P., 405-4519

* Dive Quest Scuba Club, 7 p.m., first Wednesday each month, Valparaiso Public Library, 103 Jefferson St., Valparaiso, visit www.divequestscuba.org

* Disabled American Veterans, 7 p.m., third Tuesday each month, Moose Lodge 260, 1200 N. Indiana, Crown Point, 365-8629

* Duneland Business and Professionals Network, 7:30 a.m., second Wednesday each month, Miller's Assisted Living, 5911 Lute Road, Portage, educational and networking meetings for business professionals, 764-0628 or visit www.dunelandbpn.com

* Duneland chapter of the International Plastic Modelers Society, 7 p.m., first and third Saturdays each month, Porter United Methodist Church, 100 Beam St., Porter, 926-9132 or 928-6868

* Duneland Chess Club, 6 to 9 p.m. each Friday, Bertha Wood meeting room, Thomas Library, 200 W. Indiana Ave., a working knowledge of chess is necessary, for those who have finished middle school through adults, free, 926-7696

* Duneland Woodcarvers, 9 to 11 a.m. each Tuesday, Woodland Park, 2100 Willowcreek Road, Portage, www.dunelandwoodcarvers.com

* Duneland Youth Chess Club, 4 to 5:30 p.m. each Tuesday, Bertha Wood meeting room, Thomas Library, 200 W. Indiana Ave., a working knowledge of chess is necessary, for age 5 through middle school, free, 926-7696

* ESO Tri-County Woman's Reading Club, 2 to 4 p.m. first Thursday each month, Regional Federal Credit Union meeting room, 2801 Boilermaker Court, Valparaiso, 476-4148; 462-6023

* Fountainview Craft Club, 10 a.m. second and fourth Tuesdays each month, Fountainview Place, 3175 Lancer St., Portage, free, crocheting, knitting and sewing for others, bring four-ply acrylic yarn, 764-9244

* Gardening Club, 10 a.m., second Tuesday each month, Lake County Parks greenhouse located east of the Park and Visitor Services facility at 8305 Randolph St., Hobart, 947-1958

* Gary Chapter of Indiana Black Expo, 6 p.m., third Monday of each month, Bennigans, 500 E. 5th Ave., Gary, 949-8270

* Gary Chapter of the NAACP, 6:30 p.m., second Thursday of each month, Ivy Tech State College, Room C200, 1440 E. 35th Ave., Gary, 886-2227

* Gary Kiwanis Club, noon, each Tuesday, Dusties, 411 E. 5th Ave., Gary, 794-1259

* Gary Post Office Workers Retirees (G'POWR), 10:30 a.m., third Monday of each month, Gary Public Library, 220 W. 5th Ave., Gary, new members welcome

* Great Lake Sound Women's Chorus of Sweet Adelines, International, rehearsals, 7 p.m., each Tuesday, Valparaiso Faith Memorial Lutheran Church, 753 N. Calumet Ave., Valparaiso, for women of all ages, 464-9245, 762-3984

* Griffith Swinging Seniors, 1 p.m., first and third Tuesday each month, Griffith Senior Center, 349 N. Indiana St., a social club for persons age 50 and up, 923-5559

* Highland Extension Homemakers, 10:30 a.m., second Thursday each month, Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall, 8727 Delaware St., guests welcome, call Linda Cook, 838-8435

* Hispanic Voices of Northwest Indiana, 6 p.m., second Thursday each month, Chela's Authentic Mexican Kitchen, 3325 45th St., Highland, 801-4994

* Hobart Coin Club, 2 p.m., third Sunday each month, Spring Lake Izaak Walton, 4700 W. 49th Ave., Hobart, all ages welcome, 781-9533

* Hobart Jaycees, 8 p.m., second and fourth Thursday each month, Hobart Legion Post 54, 208 S. Linda St., Hobart, community organization for young adults ages 21 to 40, visit www.hobartjc.com

* Hoosier African Violet Society, 7:30 p.m., third Friday each month, Crown Point Civic Center, 101 East St., 766-3882 or visit www.hoosieravs.com

* Jam Sessions, 7:30 to 9 p.m., third Friday each month, Unity Church of Christ, 740 River Drive, Hammond, includes prayer, meditation, yoga, art and more in a relaxing environment, for all ages, free-will offerings accepted, 931-5284

* James Kimbrough Bar Association, 5:30 p.m., second Monday each month, Office of Attorneys Karen Freeman-Wilson and Inga Lewis-Shannon, 700 Jackson St., Gary, 949-1222

* Just for Fun Ukulele Strummers, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., each Wednesday, Lincoln Center, 2450 Lincoln St., Highland, group of senior guys and gals, 696-8301

* Kankakee Valley Garden Club, 7 p.m., first Monday each month (except on a holiday), DeMotte Public Library, 901 Birch St., SW, 956-2387

* Knit and Crochet group, 1:30 p.m., Thursdays, First United Methodist Church, 6635 Hohman Ave., Hammond, membership not required, no charge, 932-5915

* Knitwits, 7 p.m. third Wednesday each month, Starbucks, 6295 Ameriplex Drive, Portage, bring your own supplies, for ages 16 and up, registration requested, free, contact portageknitwits@gmail.com

* Lake County Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Alpha Iota International Women's Music Fraternity, 7 p.m. fourth Monday each month, September through April, Trinity Memorial Lutheran Church, 7950 Marshall St., Merrillville, 781-9533

* Lake County Chapter, Barbershop Harmony Society, 6:30 p.m. each Tuesday, Pierce Middle School, 199 E. 70th Place, Merrillville, 838-6332

* Led by Thread, 7 p.m. fourth Tuesday each month, Ridge United Methodist Church, Room 106, 8607 Columbia Ave., Munster, for anyone who knits, crochets, does needlepoint or cross-stitch, bring your project to the meeting, 838-4770

* Life Empowerment Council, 10 a.m. each Wednesday, Reiner Community Center, 510 Union St., Valparaiso, for adults of all ages, 464-9997

* Male Empowerment Network Inc. (M.E.N.), 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Gary Public Library second floor, 200 W. 5th Ave., for all fathers, 730-4971

* Maple City Word Crafters amateur writers, 6 to 8 p.m. first and third Monday each month, LaPorte County Public Library, 904 Indiana Ave., LaPorte, free, 362-6156

* Marine Corps League, Calumet Detachment, 7:30 p.m., fourth Wednesday of each month, American Legion Post 66, 132 N. Wiggs St., Griffith, 789-2722

* Marine Corps League, Howlin Mad Detachment, 7:30 p.m., third Monday of each month, American Legion Post 54, 208 S. Linda St., Hobart, 947-1306

* M.A.V. Firesword, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., second and fourth Sunday of each month, Round-the-Clock Restaurant, 217 E. Lincolnway, Valparaiso, Star Trek club and community service organization, 464-7109, 759-2272 or visit www.mavfiresword.com

* Merrillville Breakfast Kiwanis Club, 7 a.m., each Thursday, Sheffield's Restaurant, 1515 E. 82nd Ave., Merrillville, everyone is welcome, Darrell Elser, 791-0216

* Merrillville Civitan Club, 12:15 p.m., first and third Thursday each month, Radisson Hotel, 800 E. 81st Ave., Merrillville, 769-2564

* MOMS Club of Highland-Griffith-Munster, 10:15 a.m., first Friday each month, Highland Branch Library, 2841 Jewett St., support and activities for moms and their children, 923-8218

* Mothers and More, Porter County chapter, 7:30 p.m., first and third Tuesdays each month, for mothers who altered their career paths to care for their children, for meeting locations, call 508-2886

* Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS), 9:15 to 11:15 a.m., first and third Tuesdays each month, Bethel Church, 10202 Broadway, Crown Point, for all mothers with children from birth through age 5, children's program provided, 663-9200

* Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS), 6 to 8 p.m., first and third Mondays each month, Unity Church of Christ, 740 River Drive, Hammond, for all mothers with children from birth through kindergarten, child care is provided, 931-5284

* Mothers of Twins Club, 7 p.m., second Tuesday of each month, Christ Lutheran Church, 2610 N. Campbell St., Valparaiso

* Munster Aglow Lighthouse, 7 p.m., third Tuesday of each month, Community Park Social Center, 8751 Lion Club Drive, Munster, 791-9089

* New Friends, 7 to 8:45 p.m., each Thursday, Porte DeL'eau Clubhouse, 2033 Porte DeL'eau, Highland, for divorced, separated and widowed men and women over 40, 836-1206 after 5 p.m.

* New Horizon Singles, 8 p.m., meetings second and fourth Tuesday each month, dances each Tuesday, Hobart Elks, 3580 W. 61st Ave., Hobart, 844-1824

* Nordikids Musiklubb, 6:30 to 8 p.m. each Monday during the school year, Ridge United Methodist Church, 8607 Columbia Ave., Munster, Scandinavian children's culture and music group for ages four and up, 923-8777

* Northwest Indiana Professional Network (NIPN), 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. each Monday, Harre Student Union Alumni Room, Valparaiso University campus, professionals share information and resources that allow them to meet their career objectives, no fee, 464-4861

* Northwest Indiana Retirees Club Inc., 1 p.m., second Thursday each month, VFW Post #9323, 2750 Central Ave., Lake Station, new members welcome, 947-1100

* Northwest Indiana Wine Club, 6:30 p.m., third Friday each month, Hobart Elks Club 1152, 3580 W. 61st Ave., Hobart, for anyone interested in wine, 895-0569

* Northwest Indiana Woodworkers Association, 7 to 10 p.m., fourth Thursday each month, Pierce Middle School, 199 E. 70th Place, Merrillville, 980-4195 or visit www.niwoodworkers.org

* Parents Leading Active Youngsters (P.L.A.Y.), 11 a.m., first Friday each month, fun activities for moms and their children including a monthly Mom's Night Out, call for location of meetings and activities, Sarah Fields, 947-9646

* Parents Without Partners Chapter 193, 6:15 p.m., first Thursday each month, LaPorte County Public Library, 904 Indiana Ave., LaPorte, 778-2605

* Parents Without Partners Chapter 342, 7 p.m., second and fourth Tuesdays each month, Portage Public Library, 2665 Irving St., Portage, 942-8606

* Portage Junior Garden Club, 4 to 5 p.m., fourth Thursday each month, Boys & Girls Club of Portage, 5895 Evergreen, grades 1 to 6, 762-2025, 763-2273

* Portage Lions Club, 6:30 p.m., second Thursday each month, Maria Elena's, 6121 U.S. 20, Portage; noon, fourth Thursday each month, Tate's Place, 3051 Willowcreek Road, Portage, men and women welcome, 763-3376, Ext. 4

* Porter County VOICE, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. each Thursday, Valparaiso YMCA, 55 Chicago St., initiative led by teens against tobacco industry, 462-4185, Ext. 241

* Quilting Club, 6 to 8 p.m. each Monday, St. Luke AME Zion Church, 1300 Jackson St., Gary, 949-0176 or 944-1211

* Schererville Garden Club, 7 p.m., first Wednesday each month, Schererville Town Hall, 10 E. Joliet St., 736-0331

* Sci-Fi Guys, 7 to 9 p.m., second and fourth Thursdays each month, The Daybreak Center, 2307 Roosevelt Road, Valparaiso, 465-5528

* Senior Pinochle Club, 1 to 3 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays, Hammond Civic Center, 5825 S. Sohl Ave., Hammond, membership is required; a pinochle tournament is held from 1 to 3 p.m. first Thursday each month at the Hammond Civic Center, membership is not required, 853-6378

* Sit '* Knit, 7 p.m. Mondays, Blackbird Cafe, 114 E. Lincolnway, Valparaiso, bring your knitting, crocheting, cross stitch, needle point projects, 462-9709

* Sit '* Knit Too, 7 p.m. Fridays, Evelyn Bay Coffee Co., 3800 N. Calumet Ave., Valparaiso, bring your knitting, crocheting, cross stitch, needle point projects, 462-9709

* South Suburban Cage Bird Association, 2 p.m., second Sunday each month, Calvin Reform Church, 2895 Glenwood-Lansing Road, Lansing, Ill., 864-0420; 924-5596 or visit www.sscba.org

* String-A-Long Quilt Guild, 7 p.m., second Wednesday each month, Chesterton Library Service Center, 100 Indiana Ave., doors open at 6, visitors are welcome, 462-8550

* Toastmasters Club, 6:30 p.m., first and third Wednesday each month, The Conservative Cafe, 201 N. Main St., Crown Point, 775-7788

* Toastmasters of Southlake, 7 p.m., second and fourth Tuesday each month, University of Phoenix, Room 102, 8401 Ohio St., Merrillville, 794-1545

* Town and Country Homemakers, 6:30 p.m., fourth Monday each month, St. John Branch Library, 9450 Wicker Ave., St. John, new members welcome, 322-4352

* Tri-Creek Band Boosters, 7 p.m., third Tuesday each month, Lowell High School, 2051 E. Commercial Ave., 308-8219

* Valparaiso chapter, Masters of Harmony, The Barbershop Harmony Society, 7 to 10 p.m. each Monday, Vale Park Enrichment Center at Banta, 605 Beech St., Valparaiso, new members welcome, 477-5576, 662-2388, 926-3711

* Valparaiso Jaycees general membership meeting, 7 p.m. the first and third Thursday each month, South Bend Chocolate Co., 57 Franklin St., a civic organization for people between the ages of 18 and 40, 476-1855

* Valparaiso Leads Club, 7:30 to 8:45 a.m. every Wednesday, Fifth Third Bank Community Room, 56 Washington St., Valparaiso, open to business owners, professionals, sales people and managers seeking to begin or expand a business, visit www.valpoleads.com ; e-mail info@valpoleads.com ; or call 462-2090

* Valparaiso Lions Club, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. first Tuesday each month, Phil B's Restaurant, 908 Roosevelt Road, Valparaiso and noon to 1 p.m. third Tuesday each month, Viking Chili Bowl Restaurant, 105 Morthland Drive, Valparaiso, men and women are invited to join, 531-0245 or visit www.valparaisoin.lionwap.org

* Valparaiso Toastmasters Club 255, 7 p.m. each Wednesday; first, third and fifth Wednesdays each month at Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 150 Silhavy Road, Suite 120; second and fourth Wednesdays at the Valparaiso Public Library, 103 E. Jefferson St., 324-3426 or 531-5962

* Veterans of the Battle of the Bulge, Northern Indiana Chapter XXX, 10 a.m. fourth Saturday each month, Elks Lodge, 416 E. U.S. 20, Michigan City, 874-9873

* Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 717, 7 p.m., third Tuesday each month, 10400 W. 93rd Ave., St. John, 365-8224

* Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 717, Ladies Auxiliary, 7 p.m., third Tuesday each month, 10400 W. 93rd Ave., St. John, 365-8224

* Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1563, 7 p.m., third Tuesday each month, 6880 Hendricks St., Merrillville, 769-1563

* Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1563, Men's Auxiliary, 6 p.m., third Wednesday each month, 6880 Hendricks St., Merrillville, 769-1563

* Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1563, Ladies Auxiliary, 6 p.m., first Wednesday each month, 6880 Hendricks St., Merrillville, 769-1563

* Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1563, Motorcycle Riders Association, 7 p.m., first Thursday each month, 6880 Hendricks St., Merrillville, 769-1563

* Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2151, Women's Auxiliary, 7 p.m., first Thursday each month, 1650 Maryland St., Gary, 886-1380, 882-6426

* Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2151, Men's Auxiliary, 6 p.m., fourth Wednesday each month, 1650 Maryland St., Gary, 886-1380, 882-6426

* Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6841, Women's Auxiliary, 7 p.m., last Tuesday each month, 17401 Morse St., Lowell, 696-8121

* Vietnam Veterans of America, Lake County chapter, 7 p.m., fourth Thursday each month, St. John Township Community Center, 1515 Lincoln Highway, Schererville, 374-7719

* Vietnam Veterans of America, Porter County chapter, 7 p.m., third Thursday each month, American Legion Post 502, 429 W. County Road 750N, South Haven, Jim Lynch, 763-9935

* Westville Prairie Quilters, from 1 to 3 p.m., first Wednesday each month, Westville Public Library, 155 Main St., visitors and new members welcome, 464-1880, 785-7397

* Woodchucks Woodworking Club, 7 p.m. second Monday each month, Portage Public Library, 2665 Irving St., for anyone interested in woodworking, 762-8416

* Write-On Hoosiers, 6:30 p.m. first and third Wednesday each month, Borders Books, Westfield Southlake Mall, Hobart, for anyone with a sincere interest in writing and publishing, 663-7307

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Hachette's - Mediabistro.com

Posted: 08 Oct 2009 10:15 AM PDT

cycle world.jpg Hachette Filipacchi-owned Cycle World Brand Group today announced a reorganization that would create a more brand-centric team.

Under the reorganization, Chief Brand Officer and SVP Larry Little promoted Executive Editor Mark Hoyer to the position of VP, brand content and editor-in-chief of Cycle World. The publication's current editor-in-chief, David Edwards, is leaving Hachette.

National Advertising Director Paul LaBella has also been promoted to VP, brand publisher and Marketing Director Corey Eastman is now VP, brand development.

The moves are the latest in President & CEO Alain Lemarchand's plan to reorganize the company into brands led by Chief Brand Officers. He has already implemented similar changes at Hachette's women's titles, shelter group and automotive pubs.

Cycle World also announced some improvements, like expanded Web site features and better paper stock.

Full release after the jump

Larry Little, SVP, Chief Brand Officer, Cycle World Brand Group, Announces Reorganization of his Management Team and Investment and Upgrades in the Magazine and Web Site

This Fully-Integrated and Brand-Centric Organization Will Improve Innovation and Engagement with Motorcycle Enthusiasts and In-Market Shoppers Across

Digital, Print, Radio, Events and Other Platforms

Newport Beach, CA, October 7, 2009 -- Larry Little, SVP, Chief Brand Officer, Cycle World Brand Group, owned by Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. (HFM U.S.), announced today the reorganization of his management team into a brand-centric structure that will maximize brand equity, integration, and strategic and revenue opportunities. Little promoted Executive Editor Mark Hoyer to Vice President, Brand Content and Editor-in-Chief, Cycle World; National Advertising Director Paul LaBella to Vice President, Brand Publisher; and Marketing Director Corey Eastman to Vice President, Brand Development. Hoyer, LaBella and Eastman will be responsible for the content creation, advertising sales and new business development of the Cycle World brand across all platforms.

David Edwards, who has served as Vice President, Editor-in-Chief, will be leaving the company.

"I want to thank David for his years of contribution to Cycle World," said Little. "His love and knowledge about every aspect of the motorcycling sport and industry has made a substantial contribution to sustain Cycle World's position as America's leading motorcycle enthusiasts' publication. I appreciate his hard work and dedication, and, on behalf of his many friends at the company, I want to wish him all the best in the future."

The new structure of the Cycle World brand is President & CEO Alain Lemarchand's most recent move in reorganizing the company's assets into brand centric groups led by Chief Brand Officers (CBO). Like other CBO's, Little has full responsibility for the Cycle World group including developing new revenue streams, setting brand and editorial content direction across platforms, and integrating print and digital advertising sales.

Lemarchand added, "Cycle World is a full fledged brand with successful extensions beyond the print magazine including digital platforms, radio and branded events. The key to continued success which the new structure supports is brand quality and investment as well as innovation across platforms. Under Larry's leadership, all resources will be focused on common goals with more opportunity for unleashed creativity."

Investment and Improvements in Cycle World Magazine and Web Site

Little also announced that starting with the November issue appearing on newsstands this week, consumers will begin to see and feel the first of many strategic investments in the Cycle World brand. The magazine will have improved paper stock, perfect binding, and restyled sections.

Little commented that "The cover and paper stock is heavier and glossier, and there is a fresh organization of content and more vibrant layouts that will allow for a much more dramatic use of Cycle World's excellent photography and art direction. It's important that we're investing in our magazine when others are cutting back."

He continued, "Print is the medium of maximum engagement, and the magazine's upgrades will enhance that experience. Online is about accessing information, and the web site is going to have greater functionality for the in-market buyer. Visitors leave the web site, which they consider a trusted source, incredibly informed."

"The expansion of our digital content is key," noted Little. "Cycle World is a primary source of credible information for people who are buying motorcycles. That group of buyers is poised to expand with a new segment of eco-minded consumers who view the transportation opportunity motorcycles represent because of fuel costs, commute times and concerns for the environment. We are developing content targeted to their needs as well as to the enthusiast."

The web site has an all-new, enhanced Cycle World Buyer's Guide for 2009 and complete guides going back to 2005. The Cycle World Twitter Newsfeed (@CycleworldMag) offers motorcycle-related updates throughout the day. Also new to the site is the Cycle World Two Wheel Inspired Secondary Transportation (TWIST) Initiative, an area devoted to promoting motorcycles as a green and fun form of alternative transportation.

During this year, Lemarchand announced similar structures for HFM U.S.'s women's titles (ELLE and Woman's Day), the shelter group (Luxury Design Group: ELLE DECOR and Metropolitan Home) and the automotive assets (Jumpstart Automotive Group including Car and Driver and Road & Track).