Working Smarter: Bilingual phlebotomist has plans for Nicaragua

Faith. Phlebotomy. Spanish. Marissa Ramirez has overcome the obstacles in her path and has a plan to combine what she knows to make a difference in Central America's most impoverished country.

Lowell man continues education after 30 years

LOWELL | John Munjas is used to his children reminding him to get his homework done — in all good humor, of course. After a more than 30-year break from college, the Lowell resident is resuming college at Indiana Wesleyan University through online courses.

GUEST COMMENTARY: Helping you to become more marketable

The big picture of our workforce goes beyond the demarcation of those who have a job and those who do not.

Working Smarter program to help job-seekers

Seven region universities will kick off their 25th year of Working Smarter, a weeklong series of workshops targeted at region residents seeking an education and better employment opportunities.

The Week Ahead - Lake County

MONDAY

Newest Lake County coroner hires experienced staff

CROWN POINT | Lake County's newest coroner unveiled an administrative staff Monday with name recognition and experience.

Valpo freshman boys win Superhoops tournament

VALPARAISO | Valpo freshmen boys basketball were crowned Superhoops champions at Indiana Wesleyan University this past weekend.

U.S. Steel VP Tony Bridge and an evening of firsts

United States Steel Corp. Vice President Tony Bridge has three degrees – a bachelor’s in industrial management and in electrical engineering from Purdue – and an MBA from Indiana Wesleyan University, but he recently confessed that despite those milestones, he never attended a graduation ceremony.

Never too late to learn, Gary woman attests

For Ruthie McCowin, of Gary, maintaining her focus has been the key to her success.

Mathews to play tennis for Indiana Wesleyan University

GRIFFITH | Perhaps it's like getting tackled from behind in the open field with the end zone in sight, or attempting a seemingly uncontested layup only to have a defender come out of nowhere to administer a facial.

Indiana Wesleyan University Jazz Band to play in Lowell

LOWELL | The Indiana Wesleyan University Jazz Band will perform at 6 p.m. Sunday at the Lowell Church of Christ, 299 N. Burr St.

Local superintendents coach others on how to hold a successful referendum

A Plainfield-based nonprofit held a meeting Thursday featuring two local school superintendents coaching others on how to hold successful referenda.

Church and school host open house for all

GUEST COMMENTARY: Programs will help residents Work Smarter in the Digital Age

The phrase, "working smarter" takes on different meaning for different people.

Local lay minister heads back to class

Almost every afternoon, Karl Seibel, of Crown Point, is at one of his favorite hangouts with his computer, studying for classes or working on a paper.

Educators sponsor 24th annual Working Smarter classes

For anyone interested in polishing or enhancing their skills, local educators are kicking off the 24th annual Working Smarter in a Digital Age program beginning June 27.

Crossroads Chamber hosts bankers round table

MERRILLVILLE | The Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Committee is hosting a Business Lending Bankers Round Table on Wednesday at Indiana Wesleyan University, 8415 Georgia St.

Learn about online classes at Merrillville meetings

Indiana Wesleyan University is hosting an information meeting at 6 p.m. today at the Indiana Wesleyan University, Merrillville Education Center, 8415 Georgia St., Merrillville, for its Master of Education - Online/Onsite classes.

INSIDE INDIANA BUSINESS: Hoosier business climate attracts Chrysler

The director of Ball State University's Center for Business and Economic Research believes the federal auto bailout has helped Chrysler and General Motors through a dark time. But Michael Hicks says credit for Chrysler's new investment in Kokomo could rest more with local and state leadershi…