Lubeznik Center for the Arts Hosts Free Family Day - October 2026
MICHIGAN CITY, Ind. - Lubeznik Center for the Arts (LCA) is hosting a free Family Day on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026, from 1 to 3 p.m. (Central), and all families are invited to attend. This free, drop-in event welcomes all ages. Exhibiting artist, Betsy Odom, will be teaching participants to create their own ping-pong paddle made out of wax using a mold. You get to bring your own paddle home! Plus, kids can enjoy a fun, family-friendly scavenger hunt through LCA's galleries, all in a relaxed and welcoming
New Food and Drink Options Open at SBN
South Bend, IN. – Officials gathered at South Bend International Airport (SBN) today for a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of new food and drink options, both pre- and post-security. Within the last month, Dunkin’, Jimmy John’s, and The Lauber Overlook opened post-security offering travelers more options in addition to the existing food and drink offerings. Dunkin’ serves up signature coffees and refreshers along with donuts, pastries, and savory bites like avocado toast, snackin’ bacon,
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La Porte Park Foundation Announces 2026 Gala: Fox Park Edition
LA PORTE, Ind. – The La Porte Park Foundation will celebrate one of the community's most beloved gathering places during its annual fundraising gala on Friday, November 13, at the La Porte Civic Auditorium. The La Porte Park Foundation Gala will take place from 6- 9 p.m. This year, the gala is the Fox Park Edition and will highlight the people, memories, events and experiences that have made Fox Park a cherished part of the community for generations. The evening at the Civic features a buffet dinner,
Register for Free 2026 Preview PNW Open House Information Sessions
HAMMOND and WESTVILLE, Ind. — Purdue University Northwest (PNW) invites prospective college students and their families to attend their choice of fall 2026 Preview PNW open house events at both the PNW Hammond and Westville campuses. The free events provide valuable information about the university’s academic programs, admissions process and paying for college. Guests are welcome to attend either of the upcoming events:Preview PNW: Hammond from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Oct. 17 at PNW’s Hammond campus,
PNW and Society of Innovators Announce Plans to End Collaboration Agreement
HAMMOND and WESTVILLE, Ind. — Purdue University Northwest (PNW) and Innovators Northwest Indiana have agreed to end the collaboration agreement through which the Society of Innovators (SOI) has functioned under the PNW umbrella since 2018. The change will be effective Dec. 31, 2026.The SOI’s board of directors voted at a July meeting to terminate the memorandum of understanding between the Society and PNW. The board stated that it views this step as the next stage in the development of the Society.The
Volunteer Training Offered at Reins of Life October 5th and 13th
Reins of Life, Inc. is offering new volunteer training on Monday, October 5, from 2-4:30 p.m. and Tuesday, October 13, from 5:30-8:30 p.m. CT. After attending one training, volunteers will be qualified to help in therapeutic riding lessons and the school program. Reins is located at 9375 W. 300 N, Michigan City, and provides therapeutic riding, therapeutic carriage driving, interactive vaulting, K12 school program, veterans program, and other equine-assisted services. Reins is recruiting volunteers aged 13
Activity Center for Older Adults' Resource Expo Returns Next Month
La Porte, IN (Sept. 21, 2026) - Local seniors, retirees and caregivers are invited to explore local resources and opportunities at an upcoming expo, according to City of La Porte Park and Recreation Superintendent Mark Schreiber. The La Porte Activity Center for Older Adults will host a Gallery of Lifestyle & Health: Expo for Older Adults and Caregivers from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 7, at the La Porte Civic Auditorium. Schreiber said whether you seek information or assistance, interested residents
Salvation Army Expands Food Pantry Access to Support Storm Recovery Across La Porte County
La PORTE COUNTY, Ind. — The Salvation Army serving La Porte County is expanding food pantry services in response to the devastating storms that impacted the region last month, providing additional food assistance to households recovering from power outages, lost wages, and other unexpected storm-related expenses. Beginning immediately and continuing through October 31, 2026, households served by The Salvation Army food pantries in Michigan City and La Porte will be eligible for one additional pantry visit
Lubeznik Center for the Arts Hosts First Friday - October 2026
MICHIGAN CITY, Ind. - Lubeznik Center for the Arts (LCA) invites the community to join us for an engaging October First Friday program celebrating the life, work and enduring legacy of renowned America sculptor Richard Hunt (1935-2023). Presented in collaboration with Krasl Art Center in St. Joseph, Michigan, the evening will feature Tami Fauver, Director of Krasl Art Center, and sculptor Eric Stephenson in a lively conversation, beginning at 6 p.m., about their experiences working with Hunt and the
Northwest Indiana Families Value Higher Education at Purdue University Northwest
HAMMOND and WESTVILLE, Ind. — Purdue University Northwest (PNW) welcomed 1,653 newly admitted undergraduate students while recording a new record 70.8% retention rate for returning second-year students for the 2026-27 academic year.The university’s enrollment figures for 2026-27 mark a second consecutive record year of retention for returning second-year students. The 70.8% retention rate reported for fall 2026 represents a nearly 5% uptick from two years ago.Meanwhile, more Northwest Indiana high school
Horizon Cares Day Returns September 22, Continuing a Tradition of Giving Back
Michigan City, Indiana – Horizon Bank will once again dedicate a day to service through its annual Horizon Cares Day on September 22, 2026. Now in its fourth year, the initiative will bring together nearly 800 Advisors from across Indiana and Michigan, who will spend the day volunteering with more than 80 nonprofit organizations. To support this effort, all Horizon Bank branches will be closed as employees focus on making a meaningful difference in the communities they serve. Horizon Cares Day reflects the
Good Life Awards Return to Honor Positive Impact Individuals on October 7
GreatNews.Life (GNL) will be hosting the 11th Good Life Awards on Wednesday, October 7 at the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority to honor six extraordinary individuals who embody positivity, compassion, and a deep commitment to making Northern Indiana a better place for everyone. 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,
Microsoft, Dermody update tax agreement to include historic funding for La Porte schools
La PORTE, IN (March 3, 2026) – In partnership with the La Porte Community School Corporation, the City of La Porte today shared they have approved an updated tax agreement for Microsoft’s datacenter project in La Porte, according to Mayor Tom Dermody.This comes after Microsoft President and Vice Chair Brad Smith announced in January that the global tech company will no longer seek local property tax abatements or breaks for its new datacenter projects. Despite the completion and approval of the previous
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,
