PUBLISHER'S LETTER

Though reality sometimes seemed hard-edged during 2011, glimpses of the future are undeniably encouraging.

Our schools, our local and state governments, our public transportation systems, our healthcare and support for children, elderly and handicapped are in the midst of challenging times. As close as we are to the more than 80 communities we serve in Northwest Indiana, we have had a front row seat watching governments grapple with tight budgets and limited time frames, as priorities shift and targets move. But the successes we've seen are similarly hard won. Last year, Calumet High School made a leap into a New Tech curriculum and climbed off of the school probation list. Also in 2011, the Hammond Academy of Science and Technology school opened in a completely wireless facility last fall. Though there are challenges ahead in education as U.S. Secretary Arne Duncan underlined at the NWI Forum summit (part of the afternoon game change agenda and the Times' One Region, One Vision annual event.) The message is clear: jobs depend on a trained workforce in NWI. Workforce training and development depend on education and preparation for today's market. And that is where the focus truly is in the Region. And that idea has been echoed across the area and in our newsrooms. We have been visited by Superintendent Tony Bennett repeatedly this year. Both Senators Lugar and Coats talked about compromise but also discussed real change and the core values of education and diversity in meeting with our Times team and BusINess editorial board.

In this issue, we are introducing the new chief of the Indiana Economic Development Dan Hasler, who explains the commitment behind bringing more and more jobs, businesses and dollars to our state. We also get a look at what's in store at U. S. Steel Gary Works in 2012. (There was growth there again in 2011 too.) And two of our state legislators take a look at the upcoming legislative session in Indianapolis. Also, thanks to IUN Chancellor William Lowe for letting us know his priorities for higher education in the coming year. Congratulations to Ivy Tech for their many initiatives and the business partnerships that their dedicated staff continues to bring to our area, along with more growth. And on another exciting energy technology and business front, I drove an electric car for the first time last month thanks to my friends at Team Chevy. It was definitely one of the many interesting rides this year and convinced me that we have a number of surprises on the horizon for next year in BusINess.

Hope you get everything on your wish list this holiday season.

Bill Masterson Jr.

Publisher, BusINess

The Times of NWI