February 16th, 2026

Chamber Connection

Happy Presidents' Day! Today is a day we reflect on our nation's past and present leaders: their goals, their perseverance in the face of adversity, and their lasting legacies. We also take a moment to consider how we can continue to embody their ideals to create a stronger union. For small communities like ours, that begins with networking, supporting other local businesses, and being vocal about community events. The Hobart Chamber of Commerce is committed to being a central place for all of this and more!



Be sure to review this week’s updates, check out our new "Business of the Week" feature, register for upcoming opportunities, and see how your Chamber membership can help support your goals throughout the year!



Building Business. Building Community.

🚀 Explore what’s new at HobartChamber.com!


Mason and Maci


Meet Mason and Maci, the HCoC's Mascots!


Make sure to follow their adventures on Facebook, or Chamber Members can take one for a week. Contact us to get on their schedule!


Upcoming Events

Chamber Mingle- Wednesday, Feb 18, 8:30am - 10am, Hobart Chamber of Commerce

Sponsored by Gloria's Glass Garden


Women's Coffee Hour- Wednesday, Feb 24, 8:30am - 9:30am, Bonus Networking from 9:30am - 10:30am, Hobart Chamber of Commerce

Note the time change! Come for coffee, stay for extra networking if you're able.


Congressional Update: Business & Community Luncheon- Tuesday, March 10, 11:30am - 1:00pm, Avalon Banquets (Merrillville)

Guest Speaker Congressman Frank Mrvan! A collaborative event with the Crown Point CoC. Only 100 seats available- register now!



Business Expo - Ready, Set, Grow!- Thursday, April 9, 4-7PM, Southlake Mall

Space is limited so register for your table today! THIS EVENT IS ALMOST SOLD OUT...


Chamber Casino Night- Friday, May 15, 5:30 doors/6:00 dinner, Gino's Banquets (Hobart)

$50/per person but save $5/pp if registered prior to 4/1

We are looking for Casino Night Sponsors - Click Here!


Welcome New Members!

We're so excited to have you! Click on each logo to learn more about each New Member.

Silver Preferred Partner

Scheeringa Southlake Landscape & Construction

Business Feature of the Week:

Illiana Indoor Billboards

Sponsored by Kara Gora of Salon Kasara

If you would like your business featured, please contact salonkasara@gmail.com

This year, Illiana Indoor Billboards proudly celebrates 10 years in business, marking a decade of helping local businesses grow and thrive through innovative advertising solutions.


Founded on April 4, 2016, by Susan Thompson, Illiana Indoor Billboards was created with a clear vision: to deliver powerful, hyper-local advertising that connects businesses directly with their communities. The name “Illiana” reflects the company’s regional focus — a blend of Illinois and Indiana — representing the markets they proudly serve.


High-Impact, Hyper-Local Digital Advertising


Illiana Indoor Billboards specializes in indoor digital billboard advertising strategically placed in high-traffic, trusted local venues. These vibrant, motion-based ads capture attention where customers live, work, shop, and socialize — increasing brand visibility and improving recall far beyond many traditional static advertisements.

By positioning screens inside established community locations, businesses can reach their audience repeatedly and effectively in environments where people naturally gather.


More Than Just Billboards


While indoor digital billboards are their core focus, Illiana Indoor Billboards offers a full suite of marketing services, making them a comprehensive local marketing partner.

 

Services include:


︎Digital menu boards

Website design

︎Google Business Profile optimization

︎Geofencing

︎Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising

︎Social media management


Clients benefit from having one trusted partner to help build and execute a cohesive marketing strategy tailored to their goals.


Empowering Advertisers and Venue Partners


Illiana Indoor Billboards operates a collaborative Venue Partner Network, allowing local businesses not only to advertise but also to host screens in their own establishments. Venue partners receive cross-promotion opportunities, content creation support, and access to Illiana’s marketing expertise. This model strengthens community connections and drives mutual business growth — a true win-win for local businesses.


Featured Advertising Promotion for Chamber Members THIS Week! 


Your Business. On Screen. In the Community.


Illiana Indoor Billboards is currently offering a special advertising promotion designed to make local exposure affordable and accessible:


Featured Advertising Special 

For just:

$125 per month (6-month contract)

$99 per month (12-month contract)


Businesses will receive:

A professionally created 15-second digital ad

Placement at 15 indoor locations of their choice

Consistent, repeated exposure within the community


This is an ideal solution for small businesses looking to increase brand awareness without overwhelming costs or long-term commitments.


Connect with Illiana Indoor Billboards


Hours of Operation:

Monday – Friday | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

(Additional meeting times available by request)


Email: info@illianaib.com

Phone: 888-607-9777

Learn more: illianaib.com


Follow Illiana Indoor Billboards on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, TikTok, Bluesky, Alignable, Threads, Pinterest, and Google Business.


Congratulations to Susan Thompson and Illiana Indoor Billboards on 10 years of serving and strengthening our local business community!


Preferred Partners

We appreciate your partnership!


Platinum Preferred Partners:




Gold Preferred Partners:




Silver Preferred Partners:



Member Events and Updates

Have Your Pet Featured on the HCOC Facebook!


February 20th is National Love Your Pet Day! Email secretary@hobartchamber.com a photo of you and your pet (or just your pet, if you'd prefer) by February 18th to be featured in our Facebook post celebrating the day! All pets welcome! 🐾


www.hobartchamber.com

(219) 942-5774

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Chamber Connection

February 16th, 2026