Press Releases
Horizon Bank Announces John Rybicki as Vice President, Sr. Commercial Loan Officer
Michigan City, Indiana – John Freyek, Market President of Lake County, is pleased to announce John Rybicki as Vice President, Sr. Commercial Loan Officer. Rybicki has more than 20 years of commercial lending experience, serving clients across both the Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana markets. In his new role, he will focus on building and maintaining relationships with commercial clients, structuring and negotiating loan terms, and providing expertise in commercial real estate financing. A graduate of
Bella Largo Senior Living to Host Sneak Peek Weekend
La Porte, IN –Bella Largo Senior Living will be holding a sneak peek event to introduce the new assisted living and memory care community to La Porte residents on March 13th from 2-5 p.m. and March 14th from 9 a.m. to noon at 1800 West Hi-Point Drive, La Porte. Attendees should enter Drive entrance to Hampton Inn to get to Bella Largo. The community is invited to RSVP by March 10th by emailing info@bellalargolife.com or calling 219.878.1141. Bella Largo, La Porte’s newest family-inspired assisted living
LCSO Presents: The New World
La Porte, February 17, 2026 - The La Porte County Symphony Orchestra is pleased to present the third concert of its 53rd season on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at 3:00 pm at the Holdcraft Performing Arts Center at 1200 Spring Street in Michigan City. The program, titled "The New World", continues the season's theme of celebrating the birth of the nation 250 years ago with the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The concert reflects on the themes of America’s struggles and triumphs as a young
Lubeznik Center for the Arts Explores the Cosmos in Newest Exhibition
MICHIGAN CITY, Ind. - Lubeznik Center for the Arts (LCA) is debuting a new exhibition, "Cosmic Connections," on view from March 6 through June 14, 2026. For centuries, artists have turned to the cosmos to seek existential meaning and connection. "Cosmic Connections" explores the work of three artists - Ravi Arupa, Megan Greene and Michiko Itatani - who investigate the universe as an improvisational, creative process mirrored in human imagination. As beings quite literally made of stardust, they engage the
Purdue University Northwest Hosts College Goal Sunday on Feb. 22
HAMMOND and WESTVILLE, Ind. — Financial aid professionals will be on-site at Purdue University Northwest’s (PNW) Hammond and Westville campuses during the statewide College Goal Sunday programs on Feb. 22. The free event will take place from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. CST and will help college-bound students and their families apply for financial aid.College Goal Sunday programs provide assistance to students in filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA form is required for students to be
Children's Storytime & Activity at the La Porte County Historical Society Museum
La Porte, IN. - Families are invited to meet in the new Children's Room at the Museum for storytime and an activity on Saturday, February 21st from 10 a.m. to noon! Each month, Museum volunteers and staff will host a storytime followed by a hands-on activity. For February, the two storytime books are "The Story of Us" and the "ABC's of Black History" as we celebrate Black History Month. We hope to see everyone Saturday!
Society of Innovators at Purdue Northwest to Host SPARK Summit
HAMMOND and WESTVILLE, Ind. – The Society of Innovators at Purdue University Northwest (PNW) will host the SPARK Summit, a one-day youth innovation and entrepreneurship experience designed for high school students from across Northwest Indiana on May 4, 2026 at PNW’s Westville campus, 1201 S. U.S. 421, Westville, Ind. The SPARK Summit will bring together more than 200 students, educators and community partners for a dynamic day of inspiration, hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving. The SPARK
Call for Proposals To Implement Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Services
Michigan City, IN – Community Partners, a family service program of Geminus, requests grant proposals for child abuse and neglect prevention services. The call for proposals supports the Geminus partnership with the Indiana Department of Child Services to provide community-based social services to families and children in Benton, Porter, La Porte, Jasper, Pulaski, Starke and Newton counties. Grant awards cover services between July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. Application Criteria Nonprofits in Benton,
Earth Day 5K Family Fun Run/Walk Returns April 25 in La Porte
La Porte, IN – The La Porte City Park Foundation is excited to announce the return of the Earth Day 5K, taking place on Saturday, April 25. The event benefits the La Porte City Park Foundation and helps support park improvements and environmental initiatives in the community. The race will again feature a scenic 5K course looping around Clear Lake with an out-and-back section on the Chessie Trail, offering participants beautiful views of La Porte’s natural landscape. The start and finish will be located at
Jaeger-UniTek Sealing Solutions Announces Leadership Transition Colton Phelan Appointed CEO as Mark Dilley Retires
[La Porte, Indiana] – Jaeger-UniTek Sealing Solutions, Inc., a leader in advanced sealing and manufacturing solutions, recently announced a planned leadership transition. Effective January 5, 2026, Colton Phelan has been appointed Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Mark Dilley, who is retiring after more than three decades of service to the company and the sealing industry. Mark Dilley’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the organization as it exists today. Dilley previously served as CEO of
La Porte Urban Enterprise Association Shares 2025 Accomplishments
La PORTE, IN – Last year held many successes for the La Porte Urban Enterprise Association, according to Board President Mike Riehle. Formed in 2002, the La Porte UEA awards grants each year to local businesses and residents residing within the Urban Enterprise Zone. In 2025, the UEA was proud to award eight business grants totaling more than $131,000. Grants helped to fund exterior renovations for downtown businesses, commercial kitchen upgrades, landscaping projects in NewPorte Landing, and interior
South Bend International Airport Sets Passenger Record in 2025
South Bend International Airport (SBN) set an all-time annual passenger record in 2025 when 1,111,002 ticketed airline passengers passed through its gates. The previous record was in 1997 with 991,457 passengers. SBN has seen passenger growth year-over-year for the last five years. The 2025 record marks substantial growth of 23.5% above 2024. With this growth came other records. Forty-one of the 50 busiest days ever occurred in 2025. Seven of those days were in the top ten. While every month of the year
Purdue University Northwest Professor Named Fellow of the American Physiological Society
HAMMOND and WESTVILLE, Ind. — Purdue University Northwest (PNW) Nils K. Nelson Endowed Professor of Integrative Human Health John Durocher has been named a 2026 Fellow of the American Physiological Society (FAPS). Durocher was recognized with esteemed member status from the American Physiological Society (APS) in the category of Teaching of Physiology. As a member of the FAPS class of 2026, he joins a prestigious group of members honored for their outstanding scientific contributions, significant impact
A Night Out That Loves Your Heart: Woman-to-Woman Event Blends Conversation and Heart Health
Chesterton, IN – Heart health looks different for women – and the conversation is changing. Woman-to-Woman: A New Conversation about Heart Health invites women to come together for an engaging evening of dialogue, connection and expert insight focused on living a longer, heart-healthy life. Perfect for a “ladies’ night out,” the event will take place on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, at Sand Creek Country Club, 1001 Sand Creek Drive, Chesterton. From 5 to 6 p.m., guests can sign-in and enjoy heavy appetizers
Horizon Bank Announces Melissa Smith-Watkins as AVP, Retail Banking Training Director
Michigan City, Indiana – Jim Paul, SVP, Retail Banking, is pleased to announce Melissa Smith-Watkins as AVP, Retail Banking Training Director. Smith-Watkins holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Bethel University and joined Horizon in 2022 as Learning & Development Programs Manager. In this role, she led training initiatives designed to support advisor development and advance organizational success. Her professional background includes more than 15 years as a Program Director at a
Artist Talk with ''LIT!'' Exhibitors at Lubeznik Center for the Arts
MICHIGAN CITY, Ind. - Lubeznik Center for the Arts (LCA) will have an Artist Talk with the artists of the current exhibition, LIT! Site-Specific Installations by Maria Burundarena and Luftwerk on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. Central. Meet and hear directly from the artists about their work, inspirations and processes. All are welcome to join in on the engaging discussion. Admission is free, as always. The artists featured in LIT! display works that challenge viewers' sense of space and place by
La Porte County Public Library to Welcome Bestselling Author Marie Benedict in April 2026
LA PORTE COUNTY, IN – La Porte County Public Library (LPCPL) is excited to welcome bestselling historical novelist and literary archeologist Marie Benedict for a special evening event on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at The Great Hall Events & Conference Center at Purdue University Northwest in Westville. Benedict will discuss her forthcoming novel, Daughter of Egypt (March 2026), which tells the story of a young woman who unearths the truth about a forgotten Pharaoh—rewriting both of their legacies
Erik Nelson Promoted to Business Development Manager
La Porte, IN – The La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership (LEAP) is pleased to announce the promotion of Erik Nelson to Business Development Manager. Erik previously served as the Workforce Development Coordinator at LEAP, a position he held for the past four years. With this promotion, Erik will be involved in economic development projects as well as serve as a point of contact for existing businesses in the Greater La Porte Area. “Erik has become a vital team member here at the La Porte Economic
Grand Heritage Federal Credit Union Holds Groundbreaking in NewPorte Landing
La Porte, IN – Today, in coordination with Tonn & Blank Construction, the La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for Grand Heritage Federal Credit Union. The credit union plans to relocate from their current building located at 201 Koomler Drive to the corner of Truesdell Avenue and North Madison Street in NewPorte Landing. “Grand Heritage Federal Credit Union is celebrating more than just a groundbreaking. We are celebrating a commitment to our members and our
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City of La Porte Awarded National Rankings for Affordability, Quality of Life
La PORTE, IN (Apr. 16, 2025) – The City of La Porte has recently drawn national attention for its low-cost, high-quality way of living, according to La Porte Mayor Tom Dermody.The City took the No. 2 spot for USA Today’s Best Small Town in the Midwest contest this spring. La Porte was one of just 20 communities nominated by the national news outlet’s panel of journalists and experts. In their description of La Porte, USA Today notes the city’s “year-round fun thanks to its three scenic lakes, historic
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The City of La Porte celebrates opening of Chipotle
La PORTE, IN (Mar. 24, 2025) – Local officials gathered for a ribbon cutting this morning to celebrate the much-anticipated opening of La Porte’s newest restaurant. Chipotle Mexican Grill, located at 150 Pine Lake Avenue, will open its doors today at 10:45 a.m. The multinational, fast casual chain specializes in made-to-order bowls, burritos and tacos with fresh ingredients. Mayor Tom Dermody said La Porte residents have been eagerly awaiting the restaurant’s grand opening since the day the project was
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Blockhead Beerworks announces second location coming to Downtown La Porte this summer
La PORTE, IN (Feb. 27, 2025) – Plans for a popular brewstillery were announced today at the La Porte Urban Enterprise Association meeting, according to La Porte Mayor Tom Dermody. Blockhead Beerworks, known for its innovative craft beers and Asian-fusion cuisine, will open a new location in downtown La Porte this summer. The new venue, located at 1100 Lincolnway in the Carpenters Union Hall, will feature a vibrant, all-ages atmosphere perfect for families, friends and beer enthusiasts alike. Co-Founder
Bella Largo Senior Living Breaks Ground on 39 North Development
Bella Largo Senior Living, located in La Porte, Indiana, is set to be the first regional senior health care facility specifically designed to be resistant to COVID and other airborne viruses. Situated in the Hi-Point business park near Exit 49 of Interstate I-90, this single-story, lakefront assisted living and memory care facility will span 48,000 square feet and feature 63 units. The project is expected to open in early 2026. Developed by John English, the facility's design emphasizes resident safety,
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Mayor Tom Dermody Announces New Development Along 39 North
La Porte, IN – Mayor Dermody in partnership with IST Distribution, announced plans for a $24 million capital investment to build and equip an 81,000 sq. ft. plastic pellet distribution facility along 39 North at 2321 Progress Drive. IST Distribution will utilize the Chicago South Shore and South Bend Railroad spur to bring in bulk plastic pellets for distribution to customers across the United States. The company plans to employ 12 new full-time employees making an average wage of $34.00/hour. According
Quincy Development Begins Construction in the Thomas Rose Industrial Park
Quincy Development begins Construction in the Thomas Rose Industrial Park Quincy Associates Industrial Development has broken ground in the Thomas Rose Industrial Park in La Porte, Indiana. This speculative development will begin with the construction of a 150,000 square foot building that can house either one or multiple tenants. The building is designed to be expandable to 300,000 square feet if so desired. The 23-acre property is located in the heart of the Thomas Rose Industrial Park along the new
Dermody Announces Agreement with Rural King to Open in La Porte
May 11th, 2020—Rural King, America’s Farm and Home Store, has announced plans to open in La Porte, Indiana by March 2021. The new store will open in Maple Lane Mall, 1340 West State Road 2. Significant renovations to the 221,000 sq. ft. structure are scheduled to begin in early spring. Although other tenants are not identified at this time, renovations to additional tenant spaces will be completed as a part of this project. La Porte Mayor Tom Dermody said, the rehabilitation and renovation of this area will
Downtown La Porte Gets Community Treatment with Help of La Porte County Family YMCA & LEAP
The City of La Porte and the La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership (LEAP) have been working to revamp the downtown district and have partnered with the La Porte County Family YMCA to make it happen. Recently, local businesses began making improvements and investing in their property, so it only made sense for the YMCA and LEAP to get out and start beautifying the city with the help of the community. Groups headed out from the 618 Plaza to surrounding blocks to paint, pick up trash, sweep, rake, pull
21st Annual Sunflower Fair in Downtown La Porte
The Sunflower Fair celebrates its twenty-first year in the heart of Downtown La Porte on Saturday, Sept. 21. The festival that celebrates community and creativity will begin at 8:00 a.m. and will last until 4:00 p.m. This unique festival is situated along beautiful Michigan Avenue between Lincolnway and Noble Street. With over 130 craft and specialty vendors, the Sunflower Fair is one of the largest area festivals. Attendees can eat delicious food from a variety of non-profit organizations and local
La Porte Farmer's Market Announces New Managers
The La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership (LEAP) is excited to announce that they have been selected to manage the La Porte Farmer’s Market for the 2020 season. LEAP is the organization formed through the partnership between the Greater La Porte Chamber of Commerce and the Greater La Porte Economic Development Corporation earlier this year. “We are very excited the La Porte Urban Enterprise Association (LPUEA) has chosen LEAP to coordinate the market. The Farmer’s Market is a tremendous initiative
La Porte and Sullivan Named INspire Idea Competition Recipients
Today, the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs announced the La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership and the Heart of Sullivan Main Street organizations as recipients of the INspire Idea competition at the Great Lakes Regional Main Street Conference. “It was exciting to see the creative ideas that came out of our Main Street organizations," said Jodi Golden, Executive Director of OCRA. "These projects demonstrated a definite need, but will also improve quality of life for residents and
Flaherty & Collins Properties Announces Updated Plans For The Strand A $35M Mixed-Use Development
Flaherty & Collins Properties has announced The Strand, a $35M mixed-use development, will start construction next month. The City of La Porte Redevelopment Commission selected Flaherty & Collins Properties last year to build a 200-unit multifamily development in the heart of the City’s NewPorte Landing redevelopment project. “The City of La Porte is very excited to be partnering with Flaherty & Collins through this development, said Mayor Mark Krentz. “Flaherty & Collins Properties has a long history of
INspire Idea Competition Selects Five Finalists
Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch and the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs announced five Indiana Main Street organizations as finalists for the INspire Idea competition. “I am excited to see what these five organizations present at the conference in the coming months,” Crouch said. “It is always inspiring to see the original ideas communities come up with to highlight the uniqueness of their area.” The goal of the competition is to encourage the Indiana Main Street network of communities and
GLPCC and GLEDC Forge a New Alliance Designed to Grow La Porte's Competitive Advantage
In an effort to build a high-functioning, multi-faceted economic development and business support center, the Greater La Porte Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and the Greater La Porte Economic Development (GLEDC) Board of Directors agreed recently to combine expertise under one umbrella and form a new alliance. The new alliance will continue to operate chamber of commerce and economic development functions independently with oversight from the two boards of directors, but will share staff,
LEAP News
- La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership Announces Ready2Work Childcare Voucher Program
- Resort Apartments Expansion Sought
- Patrick Industries Announces Plans to Open a New Facility in La Porte, Indiana
- U.S. Chamber of Commerce Awards the La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership with 5-Star Accreditation
- Quincy Development begins Construction in the Thomas Rose Industrial Park
- Dermody Announces Agreement with Rural King to Open in La Porte
- Downtown La Porte Gets Community Treatment with Help of La Porte County Family YMCA & LEAP
- La Porte and Sullivan Named INspire Idea Competition Recipients
- INspire Idea Competition Selects Five Finalists
- Flaherty & Collins Properties Announces Updated Plans For The Strand A $35M Mixed-Use Development
- GLPCC and GLEDC Forge a New Alliance Designed to Grow La Porte’s Competitive Advantage
Contact Us
Phone: 219-324-8584
Address: 605 Michigan Avenue
La Porte IN, 46350
