Lake County Convention Center Attracts National Organizations for Future Conventions and Trade Shows

Gary, IND. – Gary’s Lake County Convention Center proposal continues to attract major interest – not only from the community, but now from national and state organizations eager to bring their conferences, trade showsand conventions to the city.

Four organizations have already expressed their intent to host upcoming events at the proposed 145,000-square-foot convention center near Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, including:

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Hazan Media Group based in New York City, New York

o   DJX Show – the largest DJ convention in the country

o   1,500 midweek room nights

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The National Association of Black Law Enforcement Officers based in Newark, New Jersey

o  Annual convention

o  6,000 room nights

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Playa Bowls based in Belmar, New Jersey

o  Franchisee GM Summit

o  765 midweek room nights

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The Professional Fire Fighters Union of Indiana based in Indianapolis, Indiana

o  Annual three-dayconvention

o  270 room nights

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“This is exactly the kind of interest and energy we envisioned,” said Gary Mayor Eddie Melton. “These organizations see the potential here. They’re ready to choose Gary – and that sends a strong message about the caliber of opportunity this convention center brings, not just for our city but for all of LakeCounty. This project will serve as a catalyst for growth, creating newopportunities for generations to come.”

Todate, more than 500 people have signed up to support Gary’s proposal, alongside 60 vendors who have expressed interest in the project. Additionally, more than two dozen public officials, unions, nonprofits and community leaders have endorsed the project, recognizing its long-term economic benefits. Full letters of support are available at lakecountyconventioncenter.com.

“Weare proud to be a part of such a transformative project,” said Matt Schuffert, President of Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana. “Hard Rock’slong-standing relationships and experience in hosting world-class conferences and tradeshows have positioned us to attract top-tier evets to this conventioncenter. Our existing partners are already enthusiastic about the potential ofthis facility, and these early commitments signal the exciting economicbenefits this project will bring to the region.”  

“We’re on the brink of something powerful,” said Mayor Melton. “The Lake County Convention Center has the potential to redefine our region's future – attracting visitors, energizing our economy and putting Lake County on the map as apremier destination for national events and entertainment.”

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Media Contact:

Erika Blackwell, Chief Communications Officer, City of Gary
eblackwell@gary.gov  | (219) 806-6489 

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