The Duneland Chamber of Commerce makes it a priority to give back to the community through family-friendly events. They did just this on the evening on Saturday, August 13, for the 11th Annual Party in the Park event. The event was held at Thomas Centennial Park in the center of Downtown Chesterton.
Duneland Chamber of Commerce Marketing Director Beth Luncsford said, “We’re so excited for our Party in the Park event. Our main goal is to provide a free, family-friendly event for citizens in our community. We have music, food, and several different activities here today. It’s the last celebration families can spend together before school starts back up.”
The Duneland Chamber serves over 400 members. It strives to host events that bridge the gap between businesses and the community. They host over 100 networking and community events each year, allowing citizens to expand their networks. Additionally, the Duneland Chamber heavily emphasizes involving the whole family in its events.
I had the opportunity to talk to several vendors who set up shop at the event. It was evident that everyone was thrilled to be there and interact with Chesterton citizens. For example, representatives from the Duneland YMCA were happy to inform me about several initiatives that the establishment is adopting within the coming months. Additionally, I was able to talk to Jessica Macius, the Academy Director at La Petite Academy, an institution that encourages learning at a young age.
Macius said, “This event really brings several opportunities to the businesses in Chesterton. We live in a very tight knit community, so it’s really great for the Duneland Chamber to help us interact with more citizens and get the word out about our company.”
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Macius was absolutely right. The entertainment sponsor, Fit For Life Chesterton Physical Therapy, ensured that musical tunes radiated throughout the park. With postivie musical tunes lighting up the park, kids had the opportunity to bounce in bouce houses, adults had the chance to stop by the beer garden, and restaurants like Valparaiso’s Designer Deserts set up shop, providing food for purchase.
Attendee 11-year-old Tammy G. said, “I came to Party in the Park last year, and I’ve been looking forward to it all summer! I am able to get my face painted and hangout with my family before school begins again. What a great way to end the summer!”
Premier Partner of the event was Porter Regional Hospital. Platinum Sponsors included Franciscan St. Anthony Health in Michigan City, NWIndianaLife.com, Wagner’s, Duneland School Corporation, Road to Life Church, The NWI Times, WIMS Radio, Symphony of Chesterton, Wells Fargo Advisors, Traditions, and Jim Biggs for Commissioner.
Gold Sponsors included Anton Insurance, BMO Harris Bank, Centier, Porter Bank, Franciscan Omni Health & Fitness, H&R Block, HealthLinc, Hogan Consulting Group, Indiana American Water, Lakeside Wealth Management, LaPorte Savings Bank, Porter Starke Services, Republic Services, Riley’s Railhouse, CU, and Harris, Welsh & Lukmann.
Silver Sponsors include Absolutely Dry, Addison Pointe Health & Rehabilitation Center, Arc of the Dunes, Burglund Construction, Chesterton Manor, CLH,P.C., Dan Keilman, Harley-Davidson Shop of Michigan City, Horizon Bank, McColly Real Estate, and Superior Ambulance Service.
The Duneland Chamber of Commerce once again hosts a successful, family-friendly event, ending the summer off on a great note.