Cost of living, amenities, diversity and economy among area positives
SOUTH BEND — Perhaps the most basic thing we can do to help the area continue to grow is to be mindful of what we’re saying about the area, especially when traveling or talking to strangers.
That’s according to Amanda Ellis, the editor in chief of Livability.com, who engaged in a 20-minute conversation Thursday, March 7 with Jeff Rea, president and CEO of the South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce as part of the annual Salute to Business luncheon at the Century Center.
Top of mind for many of the estimated 850 attendees at the function was how to attract talent to the area whether it’s the University of Notre Dame, a hospital, law firm, manufacturer or any number of other employers in the region.
Those aiming to recruit employees should dwell on the area’s strengths such as its low cost of living, its amenities, diversity and even its four seasons rather than complain about crime or other less positive aspects of the community.
Livability.com is a media company that conducts research and provides information on relocation in America and produces an annual list of the top 100 small to medium-sized cities in the United States using 100 data points, looking at a city’s “economy, housing, cost of living, amenities, transportation, environment, safety, education and health.”
Carmel and Fishers are the only Indiana cities on Livability.com’s top 100 list for 2023, but South Bend makes the grade as one of the top seven cities in Indiana, also including Bloomington, Indianapolis, Evansville and Muncie.
“All in all, everyone from young professionals and families to retirees can enjoy living amid the vibrant culture
Ellis
James Cannon, president and CEO of AM General, accepts an award Thursday at the South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce's annual Salute to Business luncheon at the Century Center. The company is completing a significant expansion that will allow it to build the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle for the military later this summer. and hidden gems this beautiful Indiana city has to offer,” Livability said of South Bend.
Annual awards
Besides the discussion and networking opportunities, the Chamber also gave out its annual awards for outstanding leaders and businesses in the area.
Amber Pulford, director of corporate advancement for Cressy Commercial Real Estate, received the “Outstanding Young Business Leader Award.” Besides her work with Cressy Commercial, Pulford is president emeritus for the Potawatomi Zoo and presidentelect of the Rotary Club of South Bend, among other organizations.
Claey’s Candy was named “Small Business of the Year” for its new $8.5 million manufacturing facility in Blackthorn Corporate Park in South Bend. The 105-year-old company is now under the direction of Gregg Claeys, the third generation of his family to operate the business.
Pulford Fowler
Kareemah Fowler, assistant superintendent of business and finance for the South Bend Community School Corporation, received the “Woman of Influence” award for her successful efforts with school finances. Prior to joining the school system, she served as city clerk for South Bend.
The “Lifting Voices” award was presented to La Casa de Amistad for its 50year commitment to helping the Latino/Hispanic community by providing educational, cultural and advocacy services in the Michiana region. Juan Constantino, executive director, accepted the new award, which is meant to recognize unwavering commitments to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.
AM General received the “Economic Impact” award for its estimated $70 million project that will allow it to begin building the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle for the military later this year. The project is expected to create 329 new jobs.
Bob Hayden, longtime leader at Jordan Automotive in Mishawaka, received the “Distinguished Business Leader” award for his business efforts but also his work supporting the Food Bank of Northern Indiana since 2009, specifically its Food 4 Kids Backpack Program. Every Thursday, Jordan employees pack and deliver backpacks for three food banks.