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Celebrating 35 Years of Prancer: A Holiday Classic Returns Home
La Porte, IN, and Three Oaks, MI— Dubbed “PrancerPalooza,” fans of the classic holiday film Prancer are invited to celebrate its 35th anniversary, with a series of special screenings and festive events in Three Oaks, Michigan, on Saturday, December 14, 2024, and La Porte, Indiana, on Sunday, December 15, 2024. Prancer, filmed on location in La Porte and Three Oaks, will be celebrated with screenings and activities that honor the film’s legacy. Director John Hancock, cast members, and the local community
Horizon Bank Donates $5,000 to Support La Porte Nonprofits
Michigan City, IN — Horizon Bank is thrilled to announce the winners of its “Choose Your Charity” campaign, held in celebration of the newly remodeled downtown La Porte branch. This initiative not only marked the unveiling of the branch’s updated space but also highlighted Horizon Bank’s continued commitment to giving back to the community. After an incredible outpouring of support, the three nonprofits with the most votes have been named: 1. YMCA of La Porte County – $2,500 2. Boys & Girls Clubs of La
Good Life Awards Returns to Spread Positivity & Honor Community Leaders
GreatNews.Life (GNL) will be hosting the 9th Good Life Awards on Thursday, December 5 at Uptown Social to honor inspiring individuals throughout Northern Indiana. GNL launched the Good Life Awards in 2012 to recognize Region residents who have impacted its mission of spreading good news in a significant way. This awards party will induct a new class of six people, adding to the current alumni list of 48 leaders, and will recognize them with a custom-crafted, solid steel Good Life Award. “This
La Porte County Family YMCA Wins First Place in Horizon Bank's ''Choose Your Charity'' Initiative
La Porte, IN – The La Porte County Family YMCA is proud to announce that it has been awarded first place in Horizon Bank's "Choose Your Charity" initiative, receiving a $2,500 donation. This generous contribution will help support the YMCA’s mission to provide inclusive and equitable programs that strengthen the community. Horizon Bank’s "Choose Your Charity" initiative invited community members to vote for their favorite local non-profits. Thanks to the overwhelming support of YMCA members, staff, and
Purdue University Northwest to Offer Flexible Evening Courses at Westville Branch Campus
WESTVILLE, Ind. — Purdue University Northwest (PNW) invites community members to build their professional knowledge and work toward expanding their career goals through evening courses at PNW’s Westville branch campus, 1401 S. U.S. 421, Westville, Ind.Starting in January 2025, PNW will offer several undergraduate-level courses that introduce students to foundational concepts and hands-on learning experiences in key subject areas, including the growing fields of business analytics and cybersecurity. Those
LCSO Presents 30th Annual Holiday at the Pops Concert
La Porte, November 18, 2024 - The La Porte County Symphony Orchestra is pleased to present the 30th Annual Holiday at the Pops concert, on Saturday, December 14 at 7:00 pm at the La Porte Civic Auditorium. Dr. Carolyn Watson will return to the podium for the 30th anniversary of the event that has come to signal the arrival of the holiday season in La Porte County. Many thanks to Diamond Sponsor Northwest Health for their support of this concert. A festive array of musical delights are in store for
Regional Development Company Celebrates 2024 Achievements, Honors Top Lenders, and Marks 30th Anniversary
VALPARAISO, Ind- The Regional Development Company (RDC), based in Valparaiso, IN, highlighted its 2024 achievements and recognized top lenders at its Annual Membership Meeting on November 7, 2024 at Byway Brewing in Hammond, IN. As a non-profit and Certified Development Company (CDC), RDC supports small business growth by administering the U.S. Small Business Administration's 504 Loan Program. The Regional Development Company had 21 loans approved by the U.S. Small Business Administration, which
Northwest Health La Porte and Starke Name Chief Financial Officer
La Porte, IN - Northwest Health has announced the new Chief Financial Officer for its hospitals in La Porte and Starke. Brandon C. Cosby, will oversee finances at both hospitals and their affiliated medical group. Brandon brings years of expertise and in-depth knowledge of the organization to this role. He has served as interim Chief Financial Officer for the past four months. Brandon has both a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration/Accounting and a Master of Business Administration from Trine
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,
Good Life Awards Returns to Spread Positivity & Honor Community Leaders on December 5
GreatNews.Life (GNL) will be hosting the 9th Good Life Awards on Thursday, December 5 at Uptown Social to honor inspiring individuals throughout Northern Indiana. GNL launched the Good Life Awards in 2012 to recognize Region residents who have impacted its mission of spreading good news in a significant way. This awards party will induct a new class of six people, adding to the current alumni list of 48 leaders, and will recognize them with a custom-crafted, solid steel Good Life Award. “This
November 2024 Events at the La Porte County Historical Society Museum
November 1-30: Hanna History Pop-Up! Learn about the town of Hanna in the tenth and final of our 'Towns of La Porte County Pop-Up' exhibits. Highlights include items from the Hanna High School Panthers, local businesses, and movers and shakers.November 9: Hanna Residents Free Admission Day! All Hanna residents will receive Free Admission to the Museum on Saturday, November 9th! November 9 & 12: Veteran Free Day!November 19: Historical Society Meeting! Join us on Tuesday, November 19 at 7:00pm for a program
Horizon Bank Reminds Community of Dedicated Veterans Parking Signs
Michigan City, Indiana – As Veterans Day approaches, Horizon Bank would like to remind the community about the installation of over 60 dedicated parking signs for veterans at branch locations, completed in 2023. This initiative serves as a token of appreciation for the sacrifices made by veterans and reflects Horizon Bank’s ongoing commitment to honoring those who have selflessly defended our nation. The designated parking spaces are clearly marked with “Veterans Parking Only” signs and are conveniently
Holiday Artisan Fair at the La Porte County Historical Society Museum on December 7
The La Porte County Historical Society is happy to announce our 4th annual Holiday Artisan Fair! This year's fair will take place on Saturday, December 7 from 10:00am-3:00pm. Entrance to the fair will be by donation.There will be local artisans offering unique holiday gift items; ornaments, jewelry, scarves, original prints and cards, ceramics, candles, pottery, crochet, fiber art, resin art and more! It's the perfect place to find a gift for someone who has everything.The Museum gift shop will also be
Valparaiso American Legion Post 94 Riders Raise $12,500 for VNA Hospice NWI
VALPARAISO – The Valparaiso American Legion Riders Post 94 held its inaugural Forever Our Heroes ride on August 10, 2024 with nearly 50 riders who stopped at American Legions in Michigan City, Kingsford Heights and Kouts. The ride raised $12,500 for VNA Hospice NWI in recognition of its We Honor Veterans program. A group of Legion Riders presented the check to VNA Hospice on Sunday, October 27, 2024 at its administrative offices in Valparaiso. “VNA Hospice is extremely grateful for this generous gift that
The Hidden Treasures of La Porte's City Parks
A little girl squeals with delight as she rolls her wheelchair down the ADA-compliant beach path to Stone Lake. Her mother watches her from a close distance, tears welling in her eyes, silently thanking whoever laid this path so that her daughter will always be able to enjoy days at the lake with her friends. On the other side of town, a grandfather sits on a bench at Kesling Park, tying his grandson’s shoes before they set off for a walk. It’s the grandfather’s first outing after recovering from hip
PrancerPalooza to Bring Sam Elliott, Cast Members to Civic Auditorium
La PORTE, IN (Oct. 28, 2024) – The City of La Porte will celebrate the 35th anniversary of the movie Prancer with the film’s biggest stars, according to La Porte Mayor Tom Dermody.Actor Sam Elliott, Director John Hancock and other members of the cast will pay homage to the 1989 Christmas classic – which was filmed in La Porte – on Sunday, Dec. 15 at the La Porte Civic Auditorium. The event will feature a screening of the film, as well as a Q&A Session with the stars. Dermody said lovers of the film are not
Lubeznik Center for the Arts Hosts Annual Holiday Artisan Market
MICHIGAN CITY, Ind. – Lubeznik Center for the Arts (LCA) invites the public to the opening of their annual Holiday Artisan Market on Saturday, November 9 from 11 AM to 4 PM CT. The Gallery Shop will expand into LCA's main lobby through January 3, 2025 to accommodate thousands of unique items for the holiday season. Shop for handmade items perfect for holiday gift-giving, including offerings from over 60 local and national artists. The market is open during regular LCA hours and during
La Porte County Family YMCA Re-Launches Diabetes Prevention Program and Introduces New Youth Empowerment Program
La Porte, IN – The La Porte County Family YMCA is excited to announce the re-launch of its Diabetes Prevention Program and the introduction of a new Youth Empowerment Program, both designed to support the health and well-being of our community members. The Diabetes Prevention Program will once again be available to help individuals reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Focused on healthy living, participants will engage in group support sessions and educational workshops that promote long-term
City Updates Trick-or-Treat Time Following Concerns From Parents, Community
La PORTE, IN (Oct. 22, 2024) - For the first time in several years, the City of La Porte Board of Public Works & Safety has updated the city-wide trick-or-treat time, according to La Porte Mayor Tom Dermody. Trick-or-treating will still take place on Halloween, rain or shine, but the time has now officially been moved to 5-7 p.m. This comes at the urging of concerned parents and residents who said the previous time, 6-8 p.m., was often too dark for children in costumes to be seen on the streets.
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
La Porte to Begin Servicing 39 North Following Successful Annexation
La Porte, IN (Mar. 25, 2024) - Residents and business owners of 39 North can expect to see City service vehicles in and around the neighborhood very soon, according to La Porte Mayor Tom Dermody. The city's annexation of the 39 North Conservancy District took effect on Monday, March 11, 2024, following several years of studies and negotiations. Per state statute, the City has one year from the effective date to provide non-capital services. However, Dermody said services such as police and fire coverage,
New York Blower Announces Investment in New Office Building and Greenspace
La Porte, IN – New York Blower today announced plans for a $5,000,000 capital investment in a new office building and greenspace at their current location at 171 Factory Street. New York Blower opened in Chicago as a humble sheet-metal shop in 1889 and opened their first plant in La Porte in 1919. Since then, the La Porte facilities have expanded over nine times. Currently consisting of three plants and over 205 employees, it is the central location for manufacturing, engineering, and quality. According
City of La Porte Announces Plans for $12M Residential Development
La PORTE, IN (December 4th, 2023) – The City of La Porte in conjunction with residential developer Park Street Community, LLC, today announced plans for a $12 million capital investment in townhomes and single-family homes on the City’s east side. Based out of Indiana, Park Street Community LLC will develop 34 acres adjacent to the Thomas Rose Industrial Park that were recently annexed into the city limits of La Porte. Park Street Community LLC plans to build 118 townhomes and 19 single family homes on the
G. M. Fedorchak & Associates Architects & Developers Hold Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for New Residential Development
La Porte, IN – G.M. Fedorchak & Associates, La Porte-based architects & developers held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the East Shore Preserve Townhomes, a new residential development on McClung Road in La Porte, on April 5th at 169 McClung Road, Unit 302 from 4-5 p.m. CDT with the ribbon cutting officially taking place at 4:15 p.m. CDT followed by tours of the development.“Increasing options for residential housing continues to be a priority for our city,” said 1st Ward City Councilwoman Julie
La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership Announces Adult Certification Program for Welding
La Porte, IN – The La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership in conjunction with Ivy Tech Community College and New York Blower are pleased to announce a new program launching in La Porte this fall. This project is a true collaboration of efforts between numerous partners such as the La Porte Community School Corporation, Center of Workforce Innovations and the City of La Porte. Over the past three years, LEAP’s Workforce Taskforce, working closely with our employer partners and stakeholders, have
Maki Precision Machining, LLC Opens in La Porte
LA PORTE, Ind. - Maki Precision Machining, LLC. plans to open in La Porte at 720 Boyd Boulevard. The company has purchased the new location and is preparing to equip the manufacturing space. "The City of La Porte prides itself on being a business-friendly community. We consistently work with businesses both big and small and strive to make sure opening here is an efficient and enjoyable experience. We know communities across the country are competing for this type of development and we have no problem
Tubekraft USA Announces Plans to Build in the City of La Porte
LA PORTE, Ind. (May 16th, 2022) – Tubekraft USA announced plans to build a new plant in the City of La Porte in conjunction with Mayor Tom Dermody and the La Porte City Council at Monday’s Meeting. “In the City of La Porte, we have made it our priority to attract high-wage, quality job opportunities that bring value to our community,” Mayor Dermody said. “With an average wage of $25 an hour, the positions that TubeKraft is creating in our city will undoubtedly have an impact. We are grateful to them for
U.S. Chamber Awards the La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership with 5-Star Accreditation
La Porte, IN – The United States Chamber of Commerce, at its board meeting this week, awarded the La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership with 5-Star Accreditation for its sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on the community. “Accredited chambers are organizations that hold themselves to the highest industry standards. They are recognized for their work to create and expand business opportunities in their communities” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, U.S. Chamber vice
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