(La Porte, IN) - The La Porte City Band is about to begin its 2026 summer concert series.

Concerts take place every Wednesday evening at the picturesque Fox Park, commencing at 7:00 P.M. The inaugural concert is scheduled for Wednesday, June 3 and will continue through August 5.

As always, the band will perform traditional concert band music, from the great marches of Sousa and Fillmore to great overtures. And there is always a side trip to Broadway or the movies. This week's program includes:

Our Director (march) F.E. Bigelow

Overture for Winds Charles Carter

Holiday for Winds Glenn Osser

Gershwin in Concert arr. Marty Gold

Piper’s Rhapsody James L. Hosay

The Magnificent Seven Elmer Bernstein arr. Phillippe

The Golden Age of Broadway arr. Warren Barker

The Klaxon (march) Henry Fillmore

The band is under the direction of Charles Steck, who enters his 14th season as conductor and music director. The La Porte City band has been performing since 1879.

(South Bend, IN) - A Chicago Cub World Series MVP and former South Bend Cubbie will return to Four Winds Field later this summer. Super-utility player and three-time All Star Ben Zobrist is scheduled to make a special guest appearance in South Bend on Saturday, July 25.

Zobrist was on back-to-back World Series Championship teams in 2015 and ‘16, first with the Kansas City Royals, then with the Cubs. His extra-inning, go-ahead double in Game 7 of the Cubs’ historic series helped earn Zobrist MVP honors that year. In August of 2019, he did a rehab assignment in South Bend.

Zobrist will be back this July raising money for his nonprofit organization Champion Forward. Tickets for an exclusive VIP meet-and-greet are on sale.

(La Porte County, IN) - La Porte County residents needing blood will be able to get it from paramedics, if necessary, before they arrive at the hospital.

La Porte County Emergency Service and the American Red Cross are partnering to launch the prehospital transfusion program.  The American Red Cross will supply the blood for paramedics to give to patients before they get to the hospital to improve their chances of survival.

According to EMS, having blood immediately available is ideal for treating severe bleeding especially during the first 24 hours for patients requiring massive transfusion.

La Porte County EMS paramedics completed the regulatory training needed to implement the program, which is part of a growing nationwide trend.

People wanting to donate blood can schedule an appointment at redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS or download the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

(Michigan City, IN) - The suspect in the shooting of a La Porte County Police officer made his initial court appearance this morning.

Sharod Grafton, 22, of Chicago revealed plans to hire private counsel to represent him in the case.  He’s charged with attempted murder, battery and auto theft.  He appeared before a judge on video from the Porter County Jail where he’s being held on $100,000 cash bond.

A hearing was set in two weeks for a judge to decide whether to change the amount of his bail.   A number of law enforcement officers were present in a Michigan City courtroom for the proceedings.

Officer Jon Samuelson is improving but he’s facing what looks to be a long recovery. He comes from a family of police officers, including his great grandfather, Thomas Ciecka, who was a police officer in La Porte.

Ironically, Ciecka died from injuries suffered in the line of duty.  He was hit by a motor vehicle while directing traffic and later fell victim to a blood clot blamed on the collision in the early 60’s.

His grandson, Greg Samuelson, a longtime La Porte school teacher, said his nephew was among the members of his family to see Ciecka’s name in 2015 added to the names of other fallen officers in Washington D.C.

He said his nephew wanted to become a police officer ever since he was a child.

“He loves his job.  He loves protecting people.  He’s a super great human being,” he said.

Officer Samuelson’s father, Doug, and grandfather, Gene, were also police officers locally. His brother, Joshua, is currently a police officer in downstate Zionsville.

(La Porte County, IN) - A La Porte woman is paralyzed from the waist down after a tree fell on her moving vehicle earlier this month.

Kaity Schultz, 37, had just dropped off her four year old son and was heading to work on May 18 when the tree fell on her vehicle on Fail Road north of Indiana 2 just outside the La Porte city limits.  Schultz underwent spinal surgery but remains without the use of her legs.

Her husband, Christopher, spoke to FOX 32 News out of Chicago.  “She was probably going 40 miles per hour and the tree just fell on her which is such a freak accident,” he said.

If it weren’t for the loss of her limbs, Schultz said nobody would be able to tell she was in an accident because of how she looks and feels.  “Right now, she can only move her shoulders and arms,” he said.

Schultz told FOX 32 News she was awake during the nearly two hours it took to remove her from the wreckage and expressed gratitude to a La Porte County sheriff’s deputy for holding her hand and offering encouragement until she was freed.  A GO Fund Me page has been created to help cover medical expenses.

(La Porte County, IN) - A man stopped for driving illegally in La Porte County was allegedly found with methamphetamine last night.

Daniel Land, 34, was booked into the La Porte County Jail on charges of driving as a habitual offender and possession of methamphetamine, both Level 6 felonies.

According to La Porte County Police, an officer along Indiana 2 near Rolling Prairie heard a loud muffler from a passing vehicle and recognized the driver as Land, who he knew was a designated habitual traffic violator.

During a traffic stop, police said two plastic baggies containing a combined 1.7 grams of methamphetamine were located in one of his pockets.  Currently, the La Porte area man is being held without bond.

(La Porte County, IN) - A LaPorte County Police officer continues to show progress in his early recovery from three gunshots but his future could include a fight with paralysis.

Those are among the new details obtained from the case filed against the alleged gunman, Sharod Grafton, 22, of Chicago.  Grafton is charged in LaPorte Superior Court 1 with Level 1 felony attempted murder, Level 5 felony battery and Level 6 felony auto theft.

According to the charging information filed with the court, a preliminary examination of Deputy Jon Samuelson indicated he suffered paralysis from the chest down from a bullet lodged in his spine.

Regardless, his uncle, Greg Samuelson, said it’s an “absolute miracle” his nephew survived and has made this much progress in his recovery from the May 22 shooting at Franciscan Health outside Michigan City.

Samuelson said his nephew is talking now and was paid a visit on his 34^th birthday Monday from Bosco, a K-9 dog he handles for the sheriff’s office.  The officer remains at Memorial Hospital in South Bend where his condition remained critical but stable.  He said his nephew was also doing well enough to be taken outside this week to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air.

“We can feel the prayers.  I can feel the prayers.  I just know he’s in God’s hands and that God saved his life,” he said.

The charging information shows Dr. Scott Thompson, who operated on Samuelson, told investigators one of the bullets entered behind his left ear and while passing through the neck became lodged in the T-1 vertebrate in his upper spine.  He also mentioned early signs of paralysis.

Nevertheless, Samuelson said his nephew is feeling things when touched in areas like his feet and will undergo further testing.

“It’s going to be a long road and they’re going to do the therapies.  I’m sure Jon is going to recover.  He’s a fighter,” he said.

Police said Samuelson about 6:30 a.m. was on duty and on his way to a training session when he stopped to help Grafton, who he believed was a stranded motorist in the area of Indiana 2 and 900 West near Westville.  For unknown reasons, Grafton asked to be taken to the hospital.

Samuelson drove him to Franciscan Health and left him at the front desk of the emergency room.

He returned about a minute later when informed the vehicle Grafton was driving belonged to his mother, who reported the vehicle stolen to Chicago Police after her son took her keys at gunpoint earlier that morning, according to the charging information.

When Samuelson tried placing him in handcuffs, Grafton physically resisted and displayed a handgun, which he pointed at the officer, police said. 

In response, Samuelson wrapped his arms around Grafton and they both fell to the floor.  During the struggle, the officer trying to gain control of the gun and Grafton tumbled through an open door into a triage area of the hospital where Samuelson was shot in the shoulder, according to the charging information.

Police said a nurse heard the wounded Samuelson yell multiple times that he needed a security officer then two more shots were fired, including one to the neck delivered at point blank range.  Surveillance video of the shooting reveals Grafton then stood over Samuelson lying motionless on the floor and pointed the gun directly at him.

No recoil of the gun was spotted in the video, but police later discovered the gun was not able to deliver a fourth shot from being jammed.

Surveillance video also shows Grafton attempting to enter the officer’s police vehicle but it was locked.  He then took cover inside the open bed of a pick-up truck belonging to a hospital employee in the parking lot.  Less than a minute later, Grafton took off running into a nearby wooded area where he was soon captured without further incident.

Samuelson, an 8^th grade science teacher at LaPorte Middle School, said his nephew, a 12 year member of the sheriff’s office, was in great physical shape, taking part in marathons and other similar events.

He said his nephew always wanted to be a police officer since he was a child.

His father, Doug Samuelson, is a retired Michigan City Police officer, who was working security at the hospital when he was shot.  His brother, Joshua, is an officer in downstate Zionsville.

His late grandfather, Gene Samuelson, was police chief in LaPorte during the 1990’s.

Ironically, perhaps, Samuelson’s great-grandfather, Thomas Ciecka, was a police officer in La Porte when he died nearly a year after one of his legs was mangled when hit by a vehicle while directing traffic in the early 1960’s.

Samuelson said his death was attributed to a blood clot that formed as a result of the collision.

Over $125,000 has been raised on a GoFundMe page to help Samuelson and his family during his recovery.  There have been other fund raisers, including one at LaPorte Middle School that generated about $2,000.

“The support has been outstanding,” he said.

(La Porte County, IN) - A public meeting has been scheduled to discuss an upcoming major road resurfacing in the La Porte area.

Johnson Road will be resurfaced from U.S. 35 to the old Summit Farm at 500 West.

Commissioner Steve Holifield said he and members of the La Porte County Highway Department will be there to go over the project and answer questions.

“There’s going to be a lot of construction going on there,” he said.

The meeting will be Saturday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Center Township Volunteer Fire Department on Johnson Road. The work is expected to begin in mid-June.   The over two million dollar project will be equally funded with county government and state dollars.

(La Porte County, IN) - A driver is accused of traveling over 50 miles per hour above the posted speed limit outside La Porte.

La Porte County Police say 19 year old Richard Williams was given a summons last night to appear in court on a misdemeanor charge of reckless driving.

He was clocked at 88 miles per hour last night in a residential section of Johnson Road near 400 West and offered no valid reason for traveling that fast, police said.

Johnson Road, often used to travel between La Porte and Michigan City, is two lanes with a 35 mile per hour speed limit where the driver was clocked.  Williamson, who was stopped near Country Club Drive, was also cited for speeding.

(La Porte, IN) - The new location has been announced for the La Porte County Family YMCA.

The YMCA will remain in La Porte under plans calling for the facility to be relocated from 901 Michigan Ave. to a near 40 acre site on Truesdell Ave. adjacent to Fox Park.

“La Porte County’s needs continue to evolve, and the YMCA is committed to providing programs and services that meet the community needs today and into the future,” said Scott Helmkamp, CEO of the La Porte County Family YMCA

The new location is envisioned as a year-round gathering place where residents of all ages can move, connect, learn and thrive with expanded accessibility.

“We look forward to partnering with the Y in new and innovative ways and are excited that the new YMCA location will integrate with Fox Park and nearby trails, creating an accessible space to strengthen community well-being for residents of all ages,” said Mark Schreiber, Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of La Porte.

The new La Porte location will offer traditional YMCA programming, including youth programs, alongside new offerings developed with community partners. Planned amenities include a wellness area, pool, and gymnasium, all designed to serve individuals and families.

The City of La Porte has received a letter of pre-commitment from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation for a grant anticipated to support development of the new La Porte YMCA location.

“This critical funding reflects the commitment of our regional and state partners to drive economic growth and enhance quality of life for the people of La Porte. Our team was fully committed to competing for these dollars because we heard clearly from residents how needed this project is. This transformational investment will significantly improve health and wellness in our community, and we look forward to working with our partners to bring it to life,” said La Porte Mayor Tom Dermody.

The YMCA is committed to leading a capital campaign that gives individual and organizational donors the opportunity to invest in these projects.  At the same time, the YMCA Board of Directors continues to refine a specific fundraising goal and define the impact this effort will make possible.

Community input remains an essential part of the process, and the YMCA invites residents to learn more and share feedback through a brief survey at lpymca.org to help ensure the new branch reflects the needs and aspirations of La Porte.

The proposed plans are subject to approval by the City of La Porte.  Timelines, designs and project details are contingent upon receiving the necessary permissions and approvals.

(La Porte County, IN) - A La Porte County Sheriff’s Deputy is making significant strides in his recovery from being shot three times last week.

That’s according to La Porte County Police, who revealed that officer Jon Samuelson is communicating with family, friends and colleagues while remaining in good spirits.  Samuelson yesterday was also reunited with his K-9 partner, Bosco, inside his room in the intensive care unit at Memorial Hospital in South Bend.

“The Samuelson family and the La Porte County Sheriff’s Office remain deeply grateful for the compassion, professionalism and dedication shown by the surgeons, physicians, nurses, therapists and support staff who continue to care for him throughout his recovery journey,” said La Porte County Police Capt. Derek Allen.

Samuelson on Friday was shot in the emergency room area at Franciscan Health. The suspect, Sharod Grafton, Jr., 22, of Chicago is charged with attempted murder and other counts.  New details obtained from the case show Grafton after the third shot allegedly tried firing again but the gun jammed. 

Earlier that morning, police said the investigation shows Grafton stole his mother’s car at gunpoint and was near Westville when approached by Samuelson, who thought he was assisting a stranded motorist.

For unknown reasons, Grafton asked to be taken to the hospital.  Samuelson drove him to the hospital and left but soon returned when informed Grafton was in possession of a stolen vehicle.

Police said Samuelson was about to arrest him when during a scuffle he was shot. According to court documents, Samuelson during a preliminary examination suffered paralysis from the chest down from a bullet lodged in his spine.

(La Porte, IN) - La Porte Community School Corporation will offer free breakfast and lunch to all children ages 18 and under at four community locations this summer.

Meal service begins June 2 at Handley Elementary, Kingsford Heights Elementary, and the LaPark community site, with additional service at the Kesling Campus running in two later sessions.

According to school officials, there is no cost, no registration, and no paperwork necessary to take advantage of the meals that must be eat on site.

Summer 2026 Meal Service Schedule 

June 2 through June 26 (Monday through Friday)

·         Handley Elementary, Door #3 Breakfast: 8:30 to 9:00 AM | Lunch: 11:45 AM to 12:15 PM

·         Kingsford Heights Elementary, Door #10 Lunch: 10:45 to 11:15 AM

·         LaPark, 101 G Street Lunch: 12:00 to 12:30 PM

June 15 through June 26 (Monday through Friday)

·         Kesling Campus, Door #18 Breakfast: 8:30 to 9:00 AM | Lunch: 11:45 AM to 12:15 PM

July 6 through July 17 (Monday through Friday)

·         Kesling Campus, Door #18 Breakfast: 8:30 to 9:00 AM | Lunch: 11:45 AM to 12:15 PM

           The Summer Food Service Program is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and administered in Indiana by the Indiana Department of Education. 

(La Porte County, IN) - Two drivers are charged with racing on U.S. 20 in La Porte County this morning.

La Porte County Police said it was about 3:30 a.m. when two Ford Mustangs side by side were traveling about 90 miles per hour near Range Road.  During a traffic stop, both drivers were issued citations for engaging in a speed contest.  They could face up to six months in jail on the Class B misdemeanor offense.  Police said they were also ticketed for speeding.  

(Westville, IN) - A civilian is accused of trying to smuggle marijuana and other contraband into Westville Correctional Facility.

Kervel Williams, 40, of Gary is charged in La Porte Superior Court 2 with Level 5 felony trafficking with an inmate.

According to court documents, prison security personnel on May 18 observed an individual moving south along a fence line with what appeared to be a large bag of suspected contraband. 

An officer in a police vehicle entered a corn field and gave several verbal commands for the individual later identified as Williams to stop.

Eventually, police said he dropped to the ground and was taken into custody.

The bag after located was found to contain 120 grams of marijuana; nearly 5,000 grams of tobacco; 22 grams of chewing tobacco; 37 grams of synthetic marijuana and six cellular devices, police said.

Williams, who was still being held in the La Porte County Jail, could face anywhere from a one to six year sentence.

(Michigan City, IN) - The Salvation Army is getting ready for its 11^th annual donut eating contest.

Ben Bachmann, the athletic director at Michigan City High School, has won the contest the last two years.  Last year, he ate 20 donuts in 10 minutes, which was the most ever for the contest.

This year’s contest is scheduled June 5 at 10 a.m. at Blue Chip Casino.

There will be 17 contestants including community members and police officers.

Proceeds from the contest benefit vital Salvation Army services in La Porte County, including the food pantry, diaper bank and free summer camp for local children.

“Year after year, we see incredible enthusiasm from both contestants and spectators, all in support of programs that serve our neighbors in need,” said Major Dale Simmons, who leads The Salvation Army in La Porte County alongside his wife, Major Becky Simmons.

(La Porte County, IN) - La Porte County Police say a driver was arrested for being impaired following a two-vehicle collision over the weekend.

April Wangstrom, 54, is charged with Class A misdemeanor operating while intoxicated.

Police said Wangstrom was behind the wheel of a GMC Yukon that struck a car at 725 West and 300 North at about 7:30 p.m. on Sunday.  It appears Wangstrom, who lives in that area, pulled out from a stop sign and began turning left when struck by the oncoming driver, who slammed on his brakes to avoid a collision, police said.

There were no injuries but each of the vehicles sustained damage.  Her alleged blood alcohol level was .144-percent.

(Hammond, IN) - An Indiana State Police trooper was shot in the chest and the gunman killed early this morning in Hammond.

Police said it happened after a vehicle was pulled over for a minor traffic violation on Interstate 94.  When back up officers arrived, police said the 34 year old driver from Gary pulled out a gun and opened fire.

The gunman, Aaron Barnes, was killed when officers returned fire.

Police said the wounded officer was taken to a Chicago hospital where he is expected to make a full recovery following surgery.

The name of the trooper was withheld but will be released at some point, according to police. 

(Rolling Prairie, IN) – The school principal at Rolling Prairie Elementary lived out every parent’s worst nightmare, while celebrating student learning.

David Burden took over at the school a couple of years ago. This year, he made a deal with students. For every one of them who met a growth goal on iReady standardized testing, Burden agreed to add an inch to a path of Lego blocks that he would walk across barefoot.

After 275 individual goals were met, Burden found himself facing about 23 feet of Legos spread out accross the middle of the gym floor. On Friday morning he took the walk, surrounded by a group of excited and high-achieving school kids. Their success means 1 out of every 3 students at the school grew more than one grade level in Math and/or ELA this year.

And Mr. Burden grew in pain tolerance.

(La Porte, IN) - La Porte Community School Corporation is saying goodbye to 31 retirees.

They were all honored Thursday evening at the district’s annual recognition gala, hosted by the La Porte Educational Development Foundation.

"These 31 individuals carry with them decades of stories, relationships, and impact," said Superintendent Dr. Sandra Wood. "They taught generations of Slicers, supported our staff, kept our buildings running, and helped build the culture our schools are known for. Their retirement is well-earned, and their legacy is permanent. On behalf of the entire LPCSC family, thank you."

This year’s group of retirees includes several educators with 40 or more years of service to the district, as well as two with state-level recognition this school year. Bonnie DeWolf, a La Porte Middle School teacher, has served LPCSC for 27 years. She was the district’s 2021 Secondary Teacher of the Year and was recently named Indiana's 2026 VFW Teacher of the Year. Marty Briggs, a 47-year Crichfield Elementary teaching veteran, was named one of three finalists for this year’s Indiana Teacher of the Year award.

Together all the retiring teachers and staff members represent a total of 888 years of service to La Porte students.

Below is a list of LPCSC retiring staff for the 2025-26 school year:

• Marcia Aragon, Kesling Intermediate, 25 years
• Cindy Baker, Lincoln Elementary, 24 years
• Marty Briggs, Crichfield Elementary, 47 years
• Brenda Britton, Technology, 29 years
• Diane Brown, La Porte High School, 23 years
• Leticia Christner, La Porte Middle School, 12 years
• Brenda Cooper, La Porte High School, 31 years
• Donna Council, Kingsbury Elementary, 35 years
• Cheryl Daniels, Kesling Intermediate, 40 years
• Bonnie DeWolf, La Porte Middle School, 27 years
• Rebecca Dunbar, Crichfield Elementary, 38 years
• Tina Friedrich, Kesling Intermediate, 32 years
• Bonnie Graffis, Handley Elementary, 18 years
• Kimberly Iseminger, Special Education, 22 years
• Christine Kulasa, Kesling Intermediate, 45 years
• Laura Kwasny, La Porte Middle School, 27 years
• Alesia Lasky, Crichfield Elementary, 29 years
• Christine Lidgard, La Porte High School, 23 years
• Paul Lindeman, La Porte High School, 41 years
• Lori Loucks, Kesling Intermediate, 35 years
• Carla Marhanka, Kingsbury Elementary, 40 years
• Donna Nowak, La Porte Middle School, 31 years
• Daniel Olson, La Porte High School, 31 years
• Caroline Richards, Special Education, 23 years
• Jeff Smith, Maintenance, 28 years
• Gina Teets, Director of Human Resources, 19 years
• Chris Thomas, La Porte High School, 36 years
• Sue Wallen, Maintenance, 21 years
• Tamara Webb, Special Education, 34 years
• Jeff West, Maintenance, 16 years
• Marlene Will, Special Education, 6 years

(South Bend, IN) - A man from Trail Creek has been sent up the river for dealing drugs in Michigan City.

Tevin Keyshawn Lewis (26) was sentenced last week in South Bend’s U.S. District Court after pleading guilty to distributing 40 grams or more of a substance containing fentanyl.

According to authorities, on four separate occasions between December 2024 and May 2025, Lewis sold blue M30 pills containing fentanyl to another person in Michigan City. For each transaction, Lewis sold at least 50 pills. He distributed over 1300 pills in total.

“Tevin Keyshawn Lewis sold fentanyl, which remains one of the deadliest drugs on the market,” said U.S. Attorney Adam L. Mildred.  “He compounded his crime by selling fentanyl in pill form, which makes the poison look both safer and easier to ingest to his customers. Thankfully, our excellent team of investigators from DEA and the La Porte County Drug Task Force ended his illicit trade.”

(La Porte, Indiana) – The La Porte County Sheriff’s Office has issued the following update on the condition of Deputy Jon Samuelson on behalf of the officer’s family:

Following yesterday’s senseless incident at Franciscan Health Hospital – Michigan City Campus, Deputy Samuelson was airlifted to Memorial Hospital in South Bend for advanced medical treatment.

A team of surgeons and medical staff prepared Deputy Samuelson for surgery. He underwent approximately eight hours of surgery, which surgeons later described as successful. Medical staff remain optimistic regarding his recovery

.

Deputy Samuelson remains in critical but stable condition in the Intensive Care Unit at Memorial Hospital.

“Thank you to the surgeons and the entire medical staff at Memorial Hospital for the exceptional care being provided to Deputy Samuelson,” stated Sheriff Heeg. “Please continue to pray for Jon, his family and friends, and the entire law enforcement community.”

Deputy Samuelson is a 12-year veteran of the La Porte County Sheriff’s Office. He currently serves as a member of the agency’s Highway Interdiction Unit, is the handler for K-9 Bosco, and is designated as a US Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force Officer out of the Merrillville District Office.

In the days and weeks ahead, further information will be released when appropriate to do so.

Samuelson was shot three times by an assailant at Franciscan Hospital in Michigan City after he gave the suspect a ride to the emergency room. Follow HERE for further details.

(La Porte County, IN) - A man skateboarding was taken by ambulance after wiping out on a La Porte County road.

La Porte County Police said the 37 year old man told investigators he grabbed the skateboard after his vehicle ran out of gas in the area of 1000 North and 500 East.

The man, Anthony Hultgren, said he was westbound on 1000 North when one of the wheels on his skateboard hit a rock, causing him to fall, according to police.  He was walking and covered in blood when a relative passing by stopped and gave him a ride then called for an ambulance.

Police said Hultgren complained of a possible broken finger and had swelling near his left eye.  He was taken to a nearby hospital.

(La Porte County, IN) - A counterfeit $10 bill drew the attention of La Porte County Police.

Police said a man at the Veterans of Foreign Wars organization in Rolling Prairie pulled out his wallet Tuesday to purchase a drink when he discovered the counterfeit bill.

The man said the bill came from his winnings at the bar the previous day from playing the pull tabs, according to police.

Police said the bill clearly marked “FOR MOTION PICTURES PURPOSES” was disposed of properly.

(Michigan City, IN) - A man is behind bars in connection with the fatal shooting of a teenage boy in Michigan City last week.

Marcus Ballinger, Jr., 19, is charged in La Porte Superior Court 1 with murder.  It’s alleged Ballinger was involved in the May 15 shooting of Devin Porter, 14, in the 300 block of W. 11^th St.

According to the charging information, Ballinger and one other male individual had guns and were wearing ski masks when shots were fired.  Porter ran inside his nearby home where he collapsed on a bedroom floor.

Ballinger told investigators he and the other individual fired shots but he claimed not to have shot the boy and did not mean to kill anyone, police said. 

So far, a motive for the shooting remains unclear.  Family members of the victim told investigators he did not have problems with anyone, police said.

(La Porte County, IN) - A La Porte County Police officer was shot three times at the hospital outside Michigan City this morning.

Deputy Jon Samuelson was airlifted to Memorial Hospital in South Bend.

During a news conference late this morning, Sheriff Ron Heeg said Samuelson was in critical condition.

“We’re asking the community to keep everyone affected in their thoughts and prayers while we work through the situation,” he said.

Samuelson is a 12 year member of the department.

According to police, Samuelson stopped to help who he thought was a disabled motorist in the area of Indiana 2 and 900 West near Westville.  At the driver’s request, police said Samuelson drove him to the hospital and left.  A few minutes later, the officer learned the man was a suspect in a crime that occurred at some point in the past.

Indiana State Police spokesman Sgt. Glen Fifield said Samuelson returned to the hospital where things became physical in the emergency room area before the suspect produced a gun and shot the officer.

“The suspect then fled the hospital on foot and into a wooded area west of the hospital,” he said.

Fifield said it wasn’t long before the suspect was taken into custody without further incident.  The suspect is 22 year old Sharod Grafton of Chicago, who will be held in the Porter County Jail to await the filing of charges due to the wounded officer being with the La Porte County Sheriff’s Office.  

Police said they do not know right now why Grafton asked to be taken to the hospital.

(La Porte County, IN) - A police officer was shot this morning at Franciscan Health hospital outside Michigan City.  It occurred during a reported active shooter situation.  An arrest has reportedly been made.

So far, La Porte County Police revealed that Indiana State Police is the lead agency in the investigation at the request of Sheriff Ron Heeg.  No further details were released.

Cody Looney of New Buffalo said he was driving to work when he spotted numerous police vehicles and fire trucks on their way to the hospital then at the hospital near Interstate 94.

“All of the vehicles were driving at least double the speed limit to get there.   They definitely had the hospital surrounded,” he said.

Franciscan Health released the following statement.

“The health and safety of our patients and staff is always our top priority. There is no active threat to patients, staff or the community at this time. The emergency department remains on ambulance bypass, but walk-in patients are being accepted through the main entrance to the hospital. Franciscan Physician Network medical offices on site are closed at this time. All other services and departments remain open as normal.”

(La Porte, IN) - The Fourth of July fireworks show in La Porte will once again take place at Fox Park. 

“We are excited to kick off what will undoubtedly be an amazing July 4th celebration,” said La Porte Park Department Superintendent Mark Schreiber.

The fireworks show is made possible by the La Porte County Convention & Visitors Bureau being the sole sponsor of the event.  Adding to the festivities, a band called 1985 will take the Dennis F. Smith Amphitheater stage for a high-energy concert featuring pop, rock, new wave and metal hits from the 1980s before and after the fireworks.

Food trucks and a beer garden will be available near the amphitheater, with parking options throughout Fox Park.

(La Porte, IN) - A La Porte police officer arrested a driver for alleged impairment after the vehicle nearly struck him.

Jackie Gilley, Jr. is charged in La Porte Circuit Court with Level 6 felony operating while intoxicated and reckless driving, a Class C misdemeanor.

Police said the officer on May 16 clocked Gilley at 66 miles per hour in a 30 mph zone in the area of McClung Road and East Shore Parkway.  Gilley was also spotted veering over the center line, which caused the officer to swerve to his right to avoid a collision.

During a traffic stop, police said Gilley told the officer he had been drinking while playing golf and later at a bar then at home.  He was attempting to locate a bar when pulled over.

His alleged blood alcohol level was slightly above two times the legal limit.

According to court records, Gilley was sentenced to six months on probation for operating while intoxicated in 2024.

(La Porte, IN) - A man stopped for speeding in La Porte could get some jail time for allegedly having dispensary marijuana.  Jonte Timmons is charged in La Porte Circuit Court with dealing in marijuana, a Level 6 felony.

Police said he was stopped Monday on Pine Lake Ave. after clocked at 18 miles per hour above the posted 35 mph speed limit.  According to police, an odor of marijuana resulted in over 40 grams of marijuana being seized from the vehicle. 

Police said the marijuana was inside a dispensary bag and a half dozen zip-lock bags. Timmons, who’s from Illinois, was also cited for speeding and driving on a suspended license.

(La Porte, IN) - The La Porte School Corporation has a new lead financial officer.

Chris deBruyn has been hired as Director of Business for the school district beginning on July 1.  Currently, deBruyn serves as Director of Operations and Corporation Treasurer for the Metropolitan School District of New Durham Township in Westville.

Previously, he spent six years at JPMorgan Chase as a client banker and branch vice-president.

“His background in both school finance and private banking gives him a unique perspective, and we are confident he will be a tremendous asset to our leadership team and the La Porte community,” said La Porte Schools Superintendent Dr. Sandra Wood.

(La Porte County, IN) - La Porte County Police are investigating a fatal head-on motor vehicle crash that occurred on Wednesday.  It happened about 4 p.m. on Indiana 39 near Hanna.

Police said 41 year old Sarah Geressy was pronounced dead at the scene.  The investigation shows the Burns Harbor woman struck an oncoming Jeep Wrangler when she veered over the center line, police said.

The other driver, 23 year old Grace Crone of La Porte sustained a lower body injury. Police said investigators are waiting for blood test results to determine if alcohol or drugs were a factor in the crash.

(Michigan City, IN) - Two Michigan City High School seniors with aspirations of future healthcare careers have received Franciscan Health Michigan City Medical Staff Memorial Scholarships to assist with their post-secondary educations.

Jennifer Serrano and Alyssa Tracy are the recipients of this year’s scholarships.  Tracy will attend Saint Mary’s College this fall and plans to pursue a career as a pediatrician.

“Growing up watching my mom, who was a nurse, and having health issues myself, I just knew how important it was and I really wanted to help kids,” she said.

Serrano will attend Valparaiso University in the fall, majoring in health sciences with the goal of becoming a physician's assistant. She said the scholarship award came at just the right time.

“A storm destroyed my car, a tree fell on it, so this will give me the ability to pursue my education without worrying so much about the added cost,” Serrano said.

The annual scholarships are funded by physicians on the Franciscan Health Michigan City medical staff in partnership with the Franciscan Health Foundation and may be split among recipients as the committee deems appropriate, officials said. 

(La Porte, IN) - The La Porte Community School Corporation has named its top performers for the year.

Jeanette James-Raymond was named Elementary Teacher of the Year, Daniel Jeffers received Secondary Teacher of the Year while Brandon Williams was Employee of the Year.  The three honorees were surprised at their respective school buildings, where they were celebrated by their students and colleagues.

“Their dedication to students, their colleagues, and the mission of public education is evident every day in our classrooms, buildings, and the wider Slicer community. We are honored to recognize them and grateful for the impact they make,” said Superintendent Dr. Sandra Wood.

James-Raymond teaches Pre-K Inclusion and Transitional Kindergarten Inclusion at Little Learners Early Childhood Center and is a 38 year veteran of early childhood education.

Jeffers is in his 25th year at La Porte High School, where he has served as Social Studies Team Leader since 2014.  He was a finalist for the 2023 Indiana American Legion Educator of the Year.

Williams has served as Head Custodian at Indian Trail Elementary for three years and has been with LPCSC for nearly eight years.   He’s also a U.S. Army veteran, a Blazer Buddies mentor and the freshman Head Football Coach.

(Michigan City, IN) - A social media video of a man firing a gun illegally converted into an automatic weapon resulted in his arrest in Michigan City.

Raheem Carter, 22, of Michigan City is charged in La Porte Superior Court 1 with Level 4 felony operating a loaded machine gun and Level 5 felony possession of a machine gun.

According to court documents, police on May 14 were made aware of the video and recognized Carter as the gunman firing several automatic rounds after stepping out of a vehicle. 

Police said Carter was in the same vehicle when taken into custody during a traffic stop.  He was in possession of the converted handgun, which was removed from inside the front of his pants, police said.

Carter could face anywhere from a two to 12 year sentence on the most serious counts. 

(La Porte, IN) - The La Porte Police Department has a new second in command.

Chae Uhlemann has been promoted from chief of detectives to assistant police chief. He replaces Jim Ferguson, who stepped down from that position but remains on the department at the rank of captain.

Chief Matt Drangmeister said he believes Uhlemann, an 18-year member of the force, is a great fit for the position because of his experience and leadership skills.

"During that time, he’s earned the respect of both his fellow officers and the community through his leadership, work ethic, and commitment to service,” he said.

Ferguson was named assistant police chief in March of last year when Drangmeister took over as chief.

(Indianapolis, IN) - Hoosier drivers are being warned about increased traffic expected during the upcoming Memorial Day weekend.

AAA predicts at least 45 million people will travel in the U.S. during that period of time with more than 960.000 of them from Indiana.  Drivers are urged to plan ahead, allow extra travel time and prioritize safety.

Beginning at noon on Friday, the Indiana Department of Transportation will lift existing road closures and restrictions on state highways and other major thoroughfares.

(La Porte County, IN) - A 37-year old La Porte woman was severely injured when a large tree fell on the sport utility vehicle she was driving.

This happened just before 8 a.m. Monday on Fail Road just north of the La Porte city limits.

La Porte County Police said the woman was northbound when the tree along the west side of the road apparently was uprooted from winds measured by the National Weather Service at nearly 20 miles per hour at the time.

Among the emergency responders was Kankakee Township Volunteer Fire Department Capt. Zach Rosiuk, who said the tree landed on the hood of her 2012 GMC Acadia and blocked both lanes of travel.

He said the roof was also partially smashed in on the passenger side by the tree, which was lifted off the vehicle by a tow truck equipped with a boom. 

Rosuik said emergency responders were then able to safely cut into the vehicle and free the woman from the wreckage without fear of the tree causing further damage and injury to the vehicle and patient.

“If there’s any sudden movements, the tree could further crush or hurt someone on the scene like a firefighter or police officer,” he said.

The woman was loaded into a medical helicopter that landed in a nearby field and flown to an undisclosed hospital in the area for advanced treatment.  Police did not release the name of the woman.  Her injuries were described by police as severe but no further light was shed on her condition.

Rosiuk said the heavily damaged vehicle was pulled out from underneath the tree, which was then lowered to the ground and cut into pieces by crews with the La Porte County Highway Department.

La Porte County Commissioner Steve Holfield said he was notified right away by the highway department about the accident.

“My prayers and wishes go out to her and her family that she recovers well,” he said.

Holifield, a farmer from the Mill Creek area, said the ground may have been softened enough from a wet spring to allow the winds to uproot the tree.

“It’s just unfortunate this lady was in the wrong place at the wrong time,” he said.

Badayah Brazelton said he felt fortunate the tree didn’t fall on him because he drives that stretch of Fail Road practically every morning about that time on his way home to Michigan City from La Porte.  He was running about five minutes behind his normal schedule when he pulled up close to the vehicle with the tree on top of it.

“I was praying for the people that it happened to,” he said.

(La Porte, IN) - The La Porte City Council last night voted unanimously to annex close to 1,300 acres of farmland for a second Microsoft data center.

The request to annex was made by the current owners of the land so they can sell their property to Microsoft, which recently began moving ground for the first data center on close to 500 acres of farmland adjacent to the expansion site.

A second data center will result in even more property tax revenue than the tens of millions of dollars a year already projected for collection by the city and schools from the first data center development.

The city will also collect $17 million in a one-time payment from the sale of its land to Microsoft.  Over 100 acres of city-owned land used for spreading solids from the waste water treatment plant is included in the close to 1,300 acres being annexed and sold to Microsoft. 

La Porte Mayor Tom Dermody urged the city council to approve the annexation in what he felt was an easy decision that will benefit current residents and future generations.

“The resources that will come from this caliber of investment are unlike anything we’ve ever seen in the history of the city of La Porte,” he said.

Spencer Summers was among the La Porte residents speaking in favor of the annexation.

“Through a partnership with Microsoft, our city can return to being a city of growth.  A city our children want to be in and have an opportunity to thrive,” he said.

The concerns expressed by opponents included noise. 

Local officials say the noise level will be equivalent to the sound of a kitchen refrigerator running but that didn’t convince some nearby residents like Eric Beal, who lives on 13^th street.

“I broke my back to have a nice quiet life in La Porte and not have to deal with stuff like that right in my yard,” said Beal, who lives about a mile from the proposed data center expansion site.

Bert Cook, Executive Director of the La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership, said much of the money from Microsoft will begin flowing to the city and schools on an annual basis in 2029.  

(Lake County, IN) - Police say alcohol was involved in a fiery head-on collision caused by traveling the wrong way on the Indiana Toll Road.

44 year old Lynn Wallace from South Bend was arrested for operating while intoxicated and other counts.  According to state police, she was traveling the wrong way when she collided with an oncoming vehicle in Gary early Sunday.

Miraculously, perhaps, there were no serious injuries.  The other driver, Gabriel Velasco of Elkhart was treated at a hospital and released.

Police say Wallace had an odor of alcohol on her breath.  She refused a certified blood alcohol test but the woman was forced to give a blood sample under a search warrant obtained from a judge.

Her alleged blood alcohol level was not revealed.

(La Porte County, IN) - A woman was taken by medical helicopter after a tree fell on her moving vehicle outside La Porte this morning.

This happened on Fail Road between Indiana 2 and U.S. 20.  La Porte County Police said she was driving when the good sized tree fell.  La Porte County Commissioner Steve Holifield said he was notified by the highway department which assisted in removing the tree from the vehicle.

“They needed equipment to help get the tree off the car.  She was pretty much pinned in the car.  My prayers and wishes go out to her and her family that she recovers well,” he said.  Theres is no word on the driver’s condition.  We’ll provide further details once they become available.

(La Porte County, IN) - The La Porte County Sheriff’s Office was among the law enforcement agencies from 12 states trying to make U.S. 20 a bit safer last week.

According to the sheriff’s office, deputies wrote 22 citations and 35 warnings during the mid-morning and mid-afternoon hours in the U.S. 20 multi-state traffic safety project on May 13.  Police said the sheriff’s office was included in the effort due to the high volume of crashes on U.S. 20 in La Porte County. 

According to police, all of the participating law enforcement agencies issued a total of 415 citations and 211 warnings to motorists.

“Deputies will continue to have a presence along U.S. 20 especially in the construction zone.  Motorists are encouraged to slow down, drive distraction-free and adhere to all traffic control devices,” said La Porte County Police Capt. Derek Allen.

(Michigan City, IN) - Michigan City Police are turning to the public for help in solving the fatal shooting of a teenager.

Devin Porter, 14, was found shot by emergency responders Friday about 4:30 p.m. in the 300 block of W. 11^th Street.  Police said life saving measures were applied at the scene but the boy later died at the hospital.

So far, no arrests have been reported.  Further details were not released due to the ongoing investigation.  Anyone with information is asked to contact Michigan City Police.

It was the second fatal shooting of a teenager from Michigan City within the past week.  Javon Townsend, 17, died on May 9 after shot three times during a post-prom party at a house rented for the night in The Pines.

Two other teenagers from Michigan City High School are recovering from bullet wounds sustained at the party.   Michigan City Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch called for the community to rally behind local youth so they know the first reaction to a conflict should not be using a gun.

“We cannot allow violence, retaliation and trauma to become our new normal for our young people.  We need them to have guidance, accountability and support but we also need adults who are willing to intervene,” she said.

Deuitch said the city will continue working with schools, churches and other community stakeholders to curb gun violence.

(La Porte, IN) - A La Porte woman was killed in a crash with a semi-truck over the weekend.

La Porte County Police about 1 a.m. Sunday were called to U.S. 20 and Michigan Street in Rolling Prairie.  Police said 48 year old Clemie Chapman while traveling eastbound veered over the center line and crashed into a rear axle of the semi and then the trailer.

Chapman was pronounced dead at the scene.  The truck driver from Joliet, Illinois was not injured.

Police said investigators are waiting for the results of toxicology tests to determine if drugs or alcohol were involved.  The crash happened where U.S. 20 is down to one lane in each direction for road construction.

(South Bend, IN) - A Michigan City man has been sentenced in federal court for dealing drugs.

35-year-old Charles Pheal, Jr. pled guilty to distributing 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine. According to federal prosecutors, Pheal sold 100 meth pills, while on probation for various offences including burglary, domestic violence, and carrying a gun without a license.

In a statement, United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred outlined Pheal’s history of offenses:

“The Defendant sold 100 methamphetamine pills while on probation for burglary of a dwelling and domestic battery where he kicked open a door of a residence and slapped a mother in the presence of three minor children.  His criminal history also includes a misdemeanor domestic battery conviction where he broke into a residence through the window of a child’s bedroom and struck the child’s mother causing swelling to her left eye and scratches on her hands and knuckles.  He was sentenced for that misdemeanor domestic battery on the same day that he was sentenced in a different case for carrying a handgun without a license.  The criminal justice system’s efforts at the Defendant’s rehabilitation have failed because he chose to continue his career of antisocial behavior by peddling poison in our community,”

Pheal was sentenced to five years in prison followed by four years of supervised release by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty.

Assistant Special Agent in Charge Chip Cooke added that authorities will continue working to lock up drug dealers, especially violent ones. “Mr. Pheal’s actions are yet another example of the cruelty of drug traffickers. They always lie,” Cooke added. “The Drug Enforcement Administration and the LaPorte County Drug Task Force, along with their prosecution partners, will continue to collaborate to bring drug dealers to justice and to keep the Hoosiers of northern Indiana safe. Northern Indiana is not where drug dealers should want to do their evil work. Mr. Pheal is realizing that now.”

(Indianapolis, IN) - LaPorte County Recorder Elzbieta Bilderback was elected Vice President of the Association of Indiana Counties’ (AIC) Northwest District during the annual meeting in Jasper County in March.

The Association of Indiana Counties, Inc. is a nonprofit organization established in 1957 for the betterment of county government.  The various functions of the AIC include lobbying the Indiana General Assembly on behalf of counties, serving as liaison among counties, state and federal agencies as well as providing technical assistance and training to county officials and employees.

“I’m honored to be elected District Vice President for the Northwest District,” said Bilderback. “I’m proud to be part of the Association of Indiana Counties and appreciate the work they do every day to support local government and strengthen communities across our state.”

As District Vice President, Bilderback represents the elected county officials in the Northwest district of the state, which includes the following counties: Carroll, Cass, Fulton, Jasper, Lake, LaPorte, Marshall, Newton, Porter, Pulaski, St. Joseph, Starke and White. The AIC is represented by six districts in the state. Bilderback serves on the AIC’s board of directors, which determines policies and legislative goals for the Association.

Jasper County Recorder Kimberly Grow was elected President of the AIC’s Northwest District. 

(Lake County, IN) - Three children were killed in an early morning motor vehicle crash in Lake County.

State Police say the children were in an SUV that hit at high speeds the back of a semi-tractor trailer parked on the shoulder of Interstate 65 near Gary.    A fourth child was severely injured and flown to a Chicago hospital.

Police say the driver, Renee Foster, 31, of Gary was still hospitalized with upper body injuries.  The semi driver was not hurt.

According to police, alcohol consumption is believed to be a factor in the collision.  Neglect of a dependent charges are among the counts being considered by prosecutors. 

(La Porte County, IN) - A man accused of trying to kill someone last year is now facing allegations of badly injuring a La Porte County Jail officer.

Bertrell Randle, 44, is charged in La Porte Circuit Court with Level 5 felony battery in connection with the April 15 attack in the jail.

According to court documents, Randle was confronted by jail officers in his cell block after breaking a television with a broom handle in a common area of the facility.  At one point, Randle allegedly struck one of the jail officers in the face with his hand.

The officer, who was knocked to the floor, suffered fractures to his nose and eye socket, authorities said.

Randle has been in the jail since October waiting for the court to decide charges of attempted murder and aggravated battery against him.  The charges stem from Randle allegedly stabbing an older man walking his dogs in Michigan City’s Uptown Arts District.  Police said the man stabbed in the chest and jaw was taken by a medical helicopter to a South Bend hospital for treatment.

According to court documents, Randle was holding a knife when he approached the victim and stabbed him following an exchange of blows.  Randle was being held on $100,000 bond.

(Michigan City, IN) - Police are investigating the shooting of a juvenile last night in Michigan City.

According to police, officers about 9 p.m. were called to the 300 block of E. 7^th St. and located a juvenile with a graze wound to the left foot.  The child was taken to Franciscan Health hospital with a non-life threatening injury.

While investigating the crime scene, police said officers discovered a building on the same block had been struck by gunfire.  So far, no arrests have been reported but detectives continue to work the case.

(La Porte County, IN) - A man was killed in a Thursday evening motorcycle crash in La Porte County.

Eddie Smith, 69, of North Judson was southbound on Indiana 39 on his 1993 Harley Davidson motorcycle when he veered over the center line near 950 South, according to La Porte County Police.

Police said Smith wound up going across the northbound lane and off the east side of the highway.  He was ejected from the motorcycle during the crash.  Smith was transported to an area hospital whwere he later succumbed to his injuries. 

Police said alcohol was a factor in the accident, which happened before 6:30 p.m.  Further details were not released.

(Benton Harbor, MI) - Michigan will not have a full crop of fruit this year due to frost but the extent of the damage won’t be fully known until early June.

Dan Dick, a tree fruit specialist with the Michigan State University extension office in Benton Harbor, said his level of concern about the crop damage is moderate. 

The damage, so far, appears to be sporadic in all of the primary fruit growing regions of the state close to the entire Lake Michigan shoreline where the water warmer than chilly night air in early spring helps prevent frost.

“Nobody has a total crop loss.  Evaluations over the next few weeks are going to tell us more as the fruit are setting past bloom,” he said.

Nikki Rothwell, a tree fruit specialist at the MSU extension office in Traverse City, said she has spotted frost damage in tart cherries ranging from 20 percent to over 50 percent of the crop in orchards close to her in the northwest part of the state. However, she believes some of the less damaged tart and sweet cherries will survive.

Rothwell said crop losses related to frost could also be reduced if there’s a good pollination season to help cherry trees with their production.  She said there hasn’t been much pollinating in the Traverse City area recently because of a stretch of 40 degree temperatures keeping the bees from becoming active.

“I’m still remaining optimistic that we’ll have a cherry crop up here,” she said.

The Traverse City area is where most of the cherries are produced in the state that provides nearly 75-percent of the nation’s tart cherries, according to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.  Michigan ranks fourth in sweet cherry production.

Dick said the frost damage to plums, peaches and apricots is similar to the degree spotted, so far, in cherries.  The apple crop was also damaged but not as much since apple trees can better withstand frost.  The state ranks second in apple production.

(Michigan City, IN) - A press box has been approved for a sports complex planned at Michigan City High School.

The press box will be over four feet higher than what the current zoning allows. However, the city’s Board of Zoning Appeals Tuesday granted a variance for the press box to exceed the maximum allowable height.

The board heard from Jeanette Mulleen, who’s the project manager with Fanning Howey, an Indianapolis-based architectural and engineering firm.

“It does provide unobstructed view from the coaches, from broadcasters, from any journalists down to the field,” she said.

Plans for the sports complex include new playing fields for soccer and track along with tennis courts at some point.  Some of the groundwork to prepare the site for construction is now occurring.

Wil DeWitt, 34, is charged in La Porte Circuit Court with Level 6 felony arson.

According to authorities, DeWitt poured a container of gasoline on a house on May 9 in the 300 block of Grove St.  Gasoline was also dumped in the grass and on a sidewalk outside the residence.  Police said a lighter was spotted in DeWitt’s hand at the time but he never set fire to the home.

A witness who confronted the man told investigators he threatened to either kill himself or the people living in the residence, saying “I’m going to burn their house down,” according to police.

Police said it appears some sort of a physical altercation between DeWitt and the owner of the home doused with gasoline led up to the threats.

DeWitt was being held in the La Porte County Jail on $7,500 bond.  He could face an up to 30 month sentence.  

(Walkerton, IN) - There won’t be a fireworks show in Walkerton to celebrate the country’s 250^th birthday.

The yearly tradition has been cancelled because of failed efforts to replace the longtime organizers of the fireworks show.  After the organizers stepped away, officials said they worked hard to keep the tradition alive but it was unsustainable to continue.

In a statement, the town said "over the past year, we made extensive efforts to find support—sending more than 1,100 letters, posting on social media, including notices with utility bills, and holding public meetings and contacting various organizations but the response was very limited, making it unsustainable to continue."

There are efforts by local residents and business owners to have a show.    Reports indicate over $5,000 has been raised, so far, to help cover the cost of the fireworks.  

(La Porte, IN) - A La Porte grade school has a new principal.

Kristen Smith has been chosen to become principal at Hailmann Elementary School. Smith comes here from Edgewood Elementary School in Michigan City where she’s been the principal.

La Porte Schools Superintendent Dr. Sandra Wood told the school board this week Smith will replace Zack Huber, who’s being promoted to another role within the administration…

“She brings a strong background in instructional leadership, student achievement and school improvement,” she said.

Smith, who attended Hailmann Elementary as a child, also addressed the board.

“As someone who calls La Porte home, I’m truly honored and excited to join the district and become part of the community that means so much to me both personally and professionally,” she said.

Huber has been principal at Hailmann since 2021.  He’s also a former Slicer.

(La Porte, IN) - A proposed Microsoft data center expansion in La Porte has taken a step forward.

The La Porte Plan Commission Tuesday night approved a request to rezone much of what’s now close to 1,300 acres of farmland to manufacturing.  Mayor Tom Dermody told the plan commission the time for such a positive life-changing development is now.

“Tonight is that moment in time you’re all going to look at and say do we move our community forward and start competing with the best,” he said.

Microsoft has agreed to pay all of the property taxes at both sites adjacent to each other in the area of Boyd Boulevard and U.S. 35.  That will mean tens of millions of dollars annually for the city and several millions dollars a year for the La Porte School Corporation and county government.

“This type of economic development, it’s rare.  A lot of communities are hoping for this kind of development,” said citizen Shaun McMurray.

Resident David Porter, who lives about a half mile from the site, expressed concerns that included low frequency noise from data centers.

“I heard there are low frequency vibrations coming from data centers.  You can’t hear it but you can feel it.  People report adverse health effects,” he said.

The rezoning is contingent upon the city council deciding to annex that property into the city at the request of the landowners.  A vote by the council on the annexation request is expected at the next city council meeting on May 18.

(The Pines, IN) - Police are turning to the public for help in solving the fatal shooting of a Michigan City High School student and the wounding of two classmates from a gun during a party after prom.

LaPorte County Coroner Lynn Swanson said an autopsy Monday revealed Javon Townsend, 17, was shot in the chest, left leg and right ankle.

“The gunshot wound to the chest went through his left lung and that’s the one that caused his death,” she said.

The shootings happened in Porter County, but her office is in charge of the death portion of the investigation due to Townsend dying at Franciscan Health, a hospital just outside Michigan City in LaPorte County.

The shootings about 11 p.m. Saturday occurred in the 1700 block of Liberty Ave. in The Pines, a  town of about 700 residents about five miles west of Michigan City.  Neighbors report hearing as many as 20 or more gunshots.

“When that happened, kids were just running everywhere.  There were cars scrambling trying to leave,” said Mike Schnell, 70, who at the time was standing in his driveway across the street from where the shootings happened.  He estimated 40 to 50 young people were at the house, which was rented for the party.

Beginning about one hour prior to the shootings, Schnell said he went outside to tell people showing up for the party not to park their vehicles in his yard or driveway.   He was still outside informing partygoers not to park on his property when bullets started flying, including one that went through his neighbor’s front door.

Schnell said he called the Porter County Sheriff’s Office, which reported officers were already on their way.

“Literally, two minutes later, there was more cop cars than you ever wanted to see,” said Schnell, who counted a dozen police vehicles.

He said officers would not let anyone still on the property leave or allow parents through to pick-up their children while the crime scene was being investigated.  Schnell said he later spotted a very emotional girl sitting beside some trash cans in a neighbor’s driveway being consoled by the police and other individuals about her age.

“She was sobbing uncontrollably for at least an hour and a half,” he said.

Schnell said it wasn’t until about 3:30 a.m. when he decided to go inside and take a nap then broke down crying.  He also cried heavily enough later that he stopped reading social media posts about the shootings.

“I feel so sorry for everybody that it happened,” he said.

The wounded students, Jeremiah Heard and Ginger White, were transported to Comer Children’s Hospital in Chicago.  They are expected to recover.

A gofundme account established for Heard had raised $6,000 by early Tuesday afternoon.  According to a post from family members on the gofundme account, Heard was shot in the chest and underwent surgery with another surgery planned.

In a statement released on Mother’s Day, Michigan City Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch called the shootings tragic.

“My heart is especially with the mothers, fathers, families, classmates and friends who are grieving today instead of celebrating,” she said.

She also denounced what she called harmful rhetoric, speculation and videos circulating online about the shootings.

“I want to ask our community to lead with compassion and humanity,” she said.

Nelson Deuitch said the city is working closely with school officials and assisting law enforcement from Porter County on the investigation.  Police believe a fight led up to the gunfire.  Anyone with information is asked to contact the Porter County Sheriff’s Office.

(Michigan City, IN) - A medical doctor and longtime public servant has been named Humanitarian of the Year in Michigan City.

Dr. Vidya Kora has held many elected positions over the years including La Porte County Coroner, La Porte County Commissioner and Michigan City School Board member.  Currently, he’s a member of the city council in Michigan City.

Kora said the award is really for anyone who feels caring for others matters.

“Any good that we do is possible because of the compassion, encouragement and commitment of many people working together.  What really belongs to the entire Michigan City community are individuals that believe caring for others matters,” he said.

Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch said Kora once made sure she had the blood pressure medication she needed while in college until she obtained health insurance.

“When I talk about loving somebody, I love Dr. Kora for that.  He’s took care of my aunt. He’s taken care of our family members over the years.  I know that he’s not only done that for me, he’s done that for many others,” she said.

Kora operates a family medical practice in Michigan City where he has lived for over 40 years.

(The Pines, IN) - The La Porte County Coroner's Office has identified the 17-year-old victim in a deadly after-prom party shooting.

Javon Townsend, a junior at Michigan City High School, was shot three times and later died at the hospital.

La Porte County Coroner Lynn Swanson said an autopsy Monday revealed Townsend was shot in the chest, left leg and right ankle.

The gunfire erupted late Saturday night at a home in the 1700 block of Liberty Avenue in The Pines just outside Michigan City.  Two other teens were injured in the shooting.

So far, no arrests have been reported.  Anyone with information is asked to contact the Porter County Sheriff’s Office.

Since Townsend died at Franciscan Health outside Michigan City, the La Porte County Coroner's Office was in charge of the death portion of the ongoing investigation.

(La Porte County, IN) - A local lawmaker is working on legislation to legalize medical marijuana in Indiana.

State Senator Mike Bohacek, a republican from Michiana Shores, said he plans to introduce the proposal during the 2027 session of the state legislature.

“In light of the governor’s openness to considering legislation regarding the legalization of marijuana, we need to consider a feasible marijuana policy that would be the most helpful to Hoosiers and the economy,” he said.

“The use of medical marijuana has been proven to be beneficial for some medical disorders and could help people throughout the state who are suffering find some relief,” he said.

Bohacek is working on legislation that would legalize medical marijuana, create parameters for use in a medical capacity and establish a tax rate and policy for the sale and distribution of medical marijuana.  His legislation would also update the state impairment laws, establishing a blood concentration that would define impairment and creating trainings needed for law enforcement to identify impairment by THC, the active ingredient in marijuana.

Bohacek is encouraging residents of his district to contact him with any questions or comments.

(La Porte, IN) - The City of La Porte Parks and Recreation Department has announced the 2026 Movies in the Park schedule, featuring four free outdoor movie nights at city parks.

The series begins on June 5 at 6:30 p.m. at Fox Park with Recess: School’s Out!  The evening will include recess-style games and a Summer Camp and Programs Fair connecting families with local camps and summer resources.

On June 26 at 6:30 p.m., Movies in the Park continues at Stone Lake Beach with Lilo & Stitch, featuring a luau-themed pre-movie celebration on the beach.  A special Movies in the Park screening of Hamilton (PG-13) will take place on June 30 at 6:30 p.m. at Fox Park.  This screening is intended for a teen and adult audience and coincides with the 250th anniversary of the United States.

The series ends July 31 at 6:30 p.m. on the Civic Auditorium Lawn with Zootopia 2.

All events are free and open to the public.  Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs and arrive early.

“Movies in the Park remain a summer tradition for La Porte,” said Emily Archambault, Assistant Director of the City of La Porte Parks and Recreation Department.

“This year’s schedule adds purpose-driven activities to each event while keeping the focus on accessible, community-centered programming,” she said. 

Movies in the Park is made possible through community support.  Financial sponsors are still being sought. For information, contact Emily Archambault at earchambault@cityoflaportein.gov.

(Porter County, IN) - Police are investigating a fatal shooting over the weekend near Michigan City.

It happened Saturday night at a home in the 1700 block of Liberty Ave. in Pine Township.  Porter County Police said the shooting involved several Michigan City High School students following prom activities.

According to authorities, one juvenile was fatally shot while another juvenile and an 18 year old woman were wounded by gunfire.

Michigan City Area School officials say counseling and other support resources will be available to students and staff.  So far, no arrests have been reported.

(La Porte, IN) - The La Porte Parks Department has released its schedule for Movies in the Park this summer.

Featured flics include:

• June 5 – Recess: School’s Out!

Location: Fox Park Amphitheater

• June 26 – Lilo & Stitch

Location: Stone Lake Beach

• June 30 – Hamilton (PG?13)

Location: Fox Park Amphitheater

• July 31 – Zootopia 2

Location: Civic Auditorium Lawn

Other planned activities include a School’s Out kickoff night with info on the Summer Playground Program, a camp fair to help families plan for summer, and a luau?themed movie night on Stone Lake Beach.

All Movies in the Park events are free. Contact the Parks Department for sponsorship or vendor opportunities.

(La Porte County, IN) - A new generation of patrol vehicles has been employed in the waters of Lake Michigan.

The U.S. Coast Guard is now using autonomous sail drones to support their work in all the Great Lakes—primarily collecting weather data, tracking illicit activity, and patrolling maritime borders.

The 33-foot-long drones are powered by wind and solar and resemble sailboats. They’re equipped with radar, cameras, and collision-avoidance artificial intelligence and are monitored continuously by human operators who can take manual control if needed.

The drones will be used on the Great Lakes from May to October.

(Starke County, IN) - A Knox man was killed in a single-vehicle crash in Starke County last night.

John Bochnicka Jr, 56, died after his car left the road and hit a tree in the area of Toto Road and 300 East.

Police said Bocknicka was located inside the car.  Despite life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. 

The crash remains under investigation, police said.

(La Porte, IN) - A La Porte woman is facing child sex crime allegations.

18 year old Emma Gamble is charged in La Porte Circuit Court with Level 4 felony child molesting and Level 5 felony child exploitation.

According to the charging information filed with the court, the investigation began in January when police were notified about a social media post depicting Gamble and a 13-year old girl doing things like kissing.

Police said a search of the woman’s phone revealed other sexually explicit images of Gamble together with the victim.  According to police, there were also videos showing an intimate relationship between Gamble and a 16-year old.

Gamble could face an up to 12-year sentence on the most serious count.  She's being held in the La Porte County Jail on $20,000 bond. 

(La Porte, IN) - A La Porte woman allegedly forced two young cousins to smoke marijuana and cigarettes then gave each of the boys tattoos.  That’s the picture drawn by the allegations faced by Autumn Timm.

Timm, 22, is charged in La Porte Circuit Court with two counts of Level 5 felony battery and two counts of Class A misdemeanor tattooing a minor.

According to the charging information filed with the court, Timm on February 17 picked up her 11-year old cousin to stay the night at her residence but first drove to a friend’s house in Michigan City.  The boy told investigators he was dragged by his legs to join several people in the home who formed a “smoking circle” and was only allowed to leave the circle after smoking marijuana.

According to the charging information, Timm and the boy later picked up their 12-year old cousin and returned to Timm’s residence for the sleepover.  The next morning, police said the boys went into Timm’s bedroom where she was giving herself a tattoo.  She offered to put tattoos on each boy, saying they would be concealed and to keep it a secret so she wouldn’t get in trouble. 

Each boy told police they asked Timm to quit tattooing them because of the pain but she refused to stop, according to the charging information.  Authorities said Timm later went back to the same residence in Michigan City with the boys where they were forced to smoke marijuana and cigarettes.

The charging information also revealed the mothers of both boys called police less than two weeks later after learning about the tattoos and the other alleged activity.  Upon arrival, police said officers spotted numerous tattoos on each victim, including the images of a sun and smiley face on their hips.

Police said drug tests of the boys by their parents turned up positive for marijuana.

During her initial court hearing on Wednesday, Timm was appointed a public defender to represent her in the case and was given an October 13 trial date.

(Michigan City, IN) - Michigan City fire officials are educating the public about safety in response to a recent house fire.

On April 23, firefighters were called about 7 a.m. to Gladys St. Fire Department spokesperson Tia Eckwood said the resident told investigators she was sleeping when she heard a popping sound and noticed flames coming from an ottoman inside the home.  In an attempt to extinguish the fire, she retrieved a fire blanket and tried to smother the flames. Despite her efforts, the fire spread quickly beyond the point where a fire blanket could control it.

Recognizing the danger, Eckwood said the resident safely exited the heavily damaged home. She suffered only minor injuries.

Eckwood said the incident highlights how quickly modern furnishings can burn. Many upholstered furniture items contain synthetic materials and foam products that can produce intense heat and rapid fire growth within minutes.

While fire blankets can be effective for small cooking fires or very limited fires in their earliest stages, they are not designed to extinguish large or fast-moving furniture fires, Eckwood said.  She said attempting to fight a growing fire can delay escape and place occupants at greater risk.

“The most important safety message we'd like to relay is that if a fire cannot be extinguished immediately, get out, stay out, and call 911,” she said.

Residents are also encouraged to:
• Make sure working smoke alarms are installed on every level of the home
• Practice home escape plans with all family members
• Keep exits clear and accessible
• Understand the proper use and limitations of fire extinguishers and fire blankets

Anyone in need of a smoke alarm is encouraged to contact the fire department at 219-873-1440 extension 4004. 

(La Porte County, IN) - A stretch of Johnson Road outside La Porte is going to be repaved in the coming weeks.

As a result, an informational meeting has been scheduled for the public to learn more about the project.  La Porte County Commissioner Steve Holifield said members of the La Porte County Highway Department will be there giving information and answering questions about the project.

“It’s going to be a major project.  It’s going to cause a lot of traffic problems.  This way, they can come and find out exactly what’s going on and how long it’s going to be and what the people can look forward to during that process,” he said.

The meeting is scheduled May 30 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Center Township Volunteer Fire Department on Johnson Road.  The work will be paid for with help from a state grant.

Holifield said Johnson Road will be repaved starting in June from U.S. 35 to the Summit Farm at 400 West.  The job is expected to take about a month to complete.

(La Porte County, IN) - La Porte County government now has a data center ordinance.

The La Porte County Commissioners on Wednesday gave final approval to the restrictions.  The ordinance requires data centers locate in the Kingsbury Industrial Park or some other industrial area in the unincorporated areas of the county.  

“There’s a place for them and they just have to be placed in the right spot. This is not something we want next to somebody’s home,” said Commissioner Connie Gramarossa.

Even if a data center wants to go up in an industrial area, the facility under the ordinance still has to be approved by the La Porte County Board of Zoning Appeals for it to be constructed.

Commissioner Joe Haney said it was important to have an ordinance in the books now before any data centers seek to come here so there are restrictions for them to follow.  Haney said any changes to the ordinance can still be made later, if necessary.

“I’m looking forward to any additional recommendations from the plan commission to be able to tighten this up in the future,” he said.

Approval of the ordinance came several months after the go ahead was given to have an ordinance drafted.  The vote on the ordinance by the commissioners was unanimous.

(Michigan City, IN) - Plans for a destination playground at Michigan City’s lakefront will become reality.

All of the money is now in place for construction thanks to a $400,000 donation from Google, which will operate a data center currently under construction in the city in the 400 block of Royal Road.  Broderick Green, Public Affairs Manager for Google, revealed the monetary gift during this week’s city council meeting.

“We take our community involvement very seriously.  So, this is the initial outreach we’re going to have here,” he said.

The projected $5 million outdoor playground and fitness center at Washington Park will be handicapped accessible for everyone to use, no matter what their abilities. Construction is expected to begin in the fall.  Much of the money to build it came from state, federal and private sources.

People from all over the region are expected to travel to the playground since it will be the first of its kind in Northwest Indiana.  The park will also feature fitness stations, a paved walking trail and gathering places.

(La Porte County, IN) - The La Porte County Prosecutor lost his bid for reelection last night.

Republican Sean Fagan was defeated by more than 1,000 votes by Chuck Watterson, IV.

During the campaign, Watterson emphasized his trial experience and lack of trial experience by Fagan.

“I wanted the people of La Porte County to pick who was best for the job and who could do the job as prosecutor and I think they made the right decision.  I’m grateful for their endorsement,” he said.

Watterson in November will face democrat John Lake, who ran unopposed.  Lake was prosecutor for four years before soundly defeated by Fagan in November of 2022.  Watterson was a deputy prosecutor under Lake and a chief deputy prosecutor under Fagan until December.

During the campaign, Lake questioning Fagan’s ability to be prosecutor asked people to vote for Watterson.

(La Porte County, IN) - A former two term mayor in Michigan City has failed again in his attempt at a political comeback.

Ron Meer lost by a two to one margin to Angie Henzman for the Democratic Party’s nomination for La Porte County Commissioner.

Henzman gave some of the credit for her victory to talking about issues most concerning to voters and voters remembering how Meer left office several years ago embroiled in controversy.  The controversy was fueled by the arrest of his stepson on drug related charges just prior to the election in what Meer alleged was a set-up.

He lost his bid for a third term in 2019 to Duane Parry by less than 100 votes.  Meer was later arrested for leaving the scene of a crash and resisting law enforcement.  Those charges were later dismissed.

“I think that Ron has a solid background behind him.  I do think that he has some negatives because he left on a bad note and people didn’t really like that,” she said.

She also believed her stance against data centers and supporting a temporary moratorium on them until more is known about the facilities worked to her advantage.

Henzman also said she was shocked by her large margin of victory, thinking the race was going to be much closer.  Since leaving office, Meer has run unsuccessfully for state senator and mayor.

Henzman, the former La Porte County Democratic Party Chairman, will now face Republican nominee Jody Slabaugh in November.  Slabaugh defeated incumbent Connie Gramarossa by receiving 71-percent of the vote.

(La Porte County, IN) - A La Porte man in a landslide defeated an incumbent in last night’s primary election.

Jody Slabaugh gained the Republican Party nomination for La Porte County Commissioner over Connie Gramarossa.  He won with 71 percent of the vote.  Gramarossa was seeking her second four-year term.

Slabaugh said he was surprised at his margin of victory but felt a lot of voters were receptive to his message of transparency, integrity and professional leadership during the campaign.

“I think that’s why they came out to support me,” he said.

Another factor behind his victory, perhaps, was a growing number of voters not pleased with Gramarossa’s performance over the past nearly three and a half years. “Say No to Connie” was printed on some of the campaign signs.

“I’ll take the win however I can get it,” he said.

Slabaugh in the November general election will face Angie Hensman, who defeated Ron Meer by a two to one margin to become the Democratic Party nominee for county commissioner.

(La Porte, IN) - A La Porte man has made a political comeback.

Tim Stabosz defeated Jimmy Pressel last night for the Republican Party nomination for the La Porte County Council District 4 seat.  Stabosz won by 58 votes.

Two years ago, the former La Porte County Auditor was soundly defeated in the primary for county commissioner then later was defeated by Pressel during a Republican party caucus to fill an open seat on the county council.

Stabosz said he knocked on more than 1,600 doors during what he described as a clean campaign with Pressel.

“I got to know my district and I just want to thank the people of county council district 4 because they’re going to have a public servant who’s been a public servant and who knows the job and who has the financial background.   They listened,” he said.

Stabosz will face Tyler Brownlee in the November general election.  Brownlee ran unopposed for the democratic nomination.

(La Porte County, IN) - The "unofficial" results of the 2026 Primary Election are in for La Porte County.  With just 16.04% voter turnout, nearly 12,502 registered La Porte County voters cast their vote in this Primary Election.

Below are the "unofficial" results of the contested races on the ballot in La Porte County.  

(R) U.S. Representative District 1
36.34% Barb Regnitz
26.83% Ben Ruiz 

36.83% James Kent (Jim) Schenke

(R) State Senator District 4
35.36% Johannes Poulard
64.64% Nate Uldricks

(R) State Representative District 20
38.99% Juanita Haney
61.01% Jim Pressel
 

(R) Judge of the Superior Court No. 3

42.82% Guy S. Dimartino
57.18% Kurt R. Earnst

(R) Prosecuting Atty 32nd Circuit

41.45% Sean Fagan
58.55% Chuck Watterson, IV

(R) County Commissioner District 1
29.46% Connie Gramarossa
70.54% Jody Slabaugh

(R) County Commissioner District 1

32.34% Connie Gramarossa
67.66% Jody Slabaugh

(R) County Council Member District 2

44.98% Ray Maloney
55.02% John Pavolka

(R) County Council Member District 4

48.71% Jimmy Pressel
51.29% Timothy J. Stabosz

(D) U.S. Representative District 1

74.79% Frank J. Mrvan
25.21% Lavetta Sparks-Wade

(D) U.S. Representative District 2

62.2% Jamee Decio
37.8% Shaun Michael Maeyens

(D) State Representative District 20
47.71% Alicia Firanek
52.29% Laura Liskey

(D) County Commissioner District 1
66.96% Angela Henzman
33.04% Ron Meer

(D) County Council Member District 1
42.93% Gautama (Goot) Logwood
57.07% Olga Pothorski

(D) County Council Member District 2
17.36% Timothy Cavinder
82.64% Jennifer (Jenny) Heath

(Michigan City, IN) - We have more details about the armed robberies of food delivery workers in Michigan City last week.

26 year old Julius Harris is charged in La Porte Superior Court 1 with three Level 3 felony counts of robbery. 

Police said the Michigan City man held up three delivery workers from pizza establishments.  According to authorities, he placed the orders on a phone with numbers that cannot be traced.  When the orders arrived,  Harris was allegedly there and pointed a gun demanding the food and money.

The robberies occurred on three consecutive days with each one happening about 7 p.m. on Phillips St. and E. 11^th St.  According to police, Harris told investigators he was having a tough time financially after losing his construction job and he took the food to a home he was sharing with his girlfriend and her family for all of them to eat. 

Harris could face anywhere from three to 16 years on each count.  Police said surveillance video showing Harris was among the pieces of evidence linking him to the robberies.

(La Porte County, IN) - A La Porte woman with a long history of working in the courts has been honored by a group of local attorneys.

Jackie Dermody received the Liberty Bell award, which is given annually by the La Porte County Bar Association.  The award is presented to people who do things to promote a better understanding of the rule of the law and encourage great respect for the law.

Currently, Dermody is CEO at Family Advocates, a group involved with the courts in protecting children and working to reunite them with their families.  Dermody is also a former juvenile and adult probation officer in La Porte Circuit Court.  She spoke about the law during a brief speech after presented with the award on Friday.

“It protects our community.  It resolves disputes.  It protects our civil rights and it promotes social order and without it, we’re in a free fall.  Contrary to what people may think, it’s the best system there is and it’s the one that we have,” she said.

Dermody is the daughter of Jim Arnold and granddaughter of the late Cliff Arnold, who both served as La Porte County Sheriff for two terms.  The Arnolds' also served at the Indiana Statehouse with Jim as state senator and Cliff as state representative.

“I’ve always respected the rule of law.  I grew up with it,” she said.

She’s also the wife of La Porte Mayor Tom Dermody.

(La Porte County, IN) - Voters are out casting ballots on this primary election day.

La Porte County Clerk Heather Stevens said there were people waiting at some of the vote centers before they opened at 6 a.m.  She said dozens of voters had cast ballots less than one hour later.

“Red Mill County Park has had 15 voters.  Heston Hills has had 15.  Kankakee has had 11.   The Wills Township Community Building has had 12 voters,” she said.

Stevens added 10 people had voted by 7 a.m. at the Michigan City Fire Department Training Facility.  

People can vote at any of the over 30 vote centers throughout the county until the polls close at 6 p.m.  Tune in to 96.7 The Eagle for live election coverage during the vote counting this evening.

The primary winners from each party will face each other in the November general election. 

(La Porte, IN) - Local veterans' groups were thanked last night for having fallen trees toppled during last week’s storm removed from a La Porte cemetery.

The caretaker at Patton Cemetery, Scott Harris, was not able to financially afford having the trees removed this time after having it done himself on previous occasions.    Since a lot of veterans are buried there, the local veterans' groups were approached about helping with the clean-up and repairs to things like headstones.

Mayor Tom Dermody recognized the Veterans of Foreign Wars organization, the American Legion and the mayor’s veterans’ committee during last night’s city council meeting.

“What do you do when you need help, especially when veterans are there and need to have the respect of being buried in a place that their family can be proud of.  They all came through,” he said.

Harris thanked councilman Roger Galloway, a local veteran and VFW member, for his help with the clean-up.

“It’s a wonderful, wonderful cemetery with no money and it’s a lot to take care of.  Everybody appreciates all that you do,” he said.

Members of the veterans groups are now coming up with ideas to fund future tree removal and repairs at the cemetery. 

(Michigan City, IN) - An arrest has been made in connection with armed robberies of three food delivery drivers in Michigan City.

Julius Harris, 26, is charged with one count of armed robbery, a Level 3 felony.

Police said Harris was taken into custody Saturday night as a result of leads and other evidence in the case.  In each of the robberies, police said a male suspect displayed a gun and fled on foot with the food orders.

The robberies happened last week on Tuesday in the 100 block of Phillips St. along with Wednesday and Thursday in the 600 block of E. 10^th St.  The suspect in all of the cases was described as an African-American male who conducted each robbery about 7 p.m.

In two of the cases, police said the robber was described as wearing eyeglasses and had facial hair.  Whether Harris is a person of interest in the other robberies has not been disclosed.

Additional information about the crimes has not been released due to the ongoing investigation.

Voter turnout in La Porte County could be high in Tuesday’s primary election judging by early voting totals.

La Porte County Clerk Heather Stevens said more than 3,200 people had voted early as of 3 p.m. on Saturday.

In comparison, just over 2,500 people voted early in the last primary in 2024, which was a presidential election when turnout is traditionally the strongest.

“So, we’re doing well,” she said.

Stevens said she believes the early voting turnout has a lot to do with heavy interest since each party has a lot of contested races this year.

“People are paying attention,” she said.

The early voting deadline Is today at 12 p.m.

The polls are open Tuesday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the over 30 voting center locations in La Porte County. 

(La Porte County, IN) - A man from another country was arrested for operating while intoxicated after winding up in a La Porte County ditch.

Tomas Pascual Pedro, 23, was booked into the La Porte County Jail for allegedly having a blood alcohol level of .169-percent or slightly more than two times the legal limit.

La Porte County Police said emergency responders just after 10 p.m. Saturday were called to the area of 950 West and 300 North  Pedro was located standing next to his 2016 Ford Explorer in a ditch.

Police said there was an open case of beer on the front passenger side floorboard along with two partially consumed beers in the center console along with several empty beer cans on the backseat.

According to police, Pedro did not have a valid driver’s license.  Pedro told officers he is from Guatemala and has been living in Michigan City for two of the four years since coming to the United States.

(Michigan City, IN) - Lemur lovers can leap for joy. Washington Park Zoo in Michigan City is now home to a handful of rescued ring-tailed lemurs.

The charismatic critters were recently found roaming loose down in Texas. Back in February, an animal sanctuary there rounded up a troop of nine lemurs. Some of them were badly injured, evidence of poor treatment and neglect.

After some rehab, the lemurs were ready for a new home. They now live in Michigan City at the zoo’s popular Lemur Island. Four of the females have since given birth to babies.

More details on this new zoo development are included on a statement from Washington Park Zoo below. Pictures of the precocious primates can be found on the zoo's Facebook page.
 

Known for their striking, two-foot-long tails marked with 13 black and white rings, ring-tailed lemurs are native to the dry forests of southwestern Madagascar. Uniquely, they spend nearly half their time on the ground—a rarity among lemurs. At the zoo, these charismatic primates will become ambassadors for their endangered species, inspiring guests to support wildlife conservation efforts.

The collaborative effort behind their rescue and relocation demonstrates the vital role animal welfare organizations, local authorities, and zoos play when working together. Through joint action, animals in crisis—like these lemurs—can receive lifesaving care and the opportunity to thrive in safe, species-appropriate environments.

The rescue operation began on Monday, February 23, when BEARS Etc.—a Bear & Exotic Animal Rescue Sanctuary—was called by Texas county animal control and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service about loose lemurs. With the total number unknown, authorities captured eight lemurs that day. BEARS Etc., with support from local partners, quickly adapted its facilities to care for the rescued animals.

The following day, another lemur was captured, bringing the total rescued to nine. Upon arrival at BEARS Etc., staff discovered several animals with missing fingers and many with tail injuries, along with signs of past trauma or neglect. After prompt veterinary care, the lemurs began their recovery as preparations to find them a permanent home began.

When we were notified that the lemurs needed a new home, zoo staff acted quickly to bring the troop to Michigan City. Soon after their arrival, the lemurs settled in quickly, and four of the five females gave birth—including a set of twins. To prevent future breeding and safeguard the troop's health, the zoo will neuter the males, given their unknown genetic lineage.

Since our opening in 1928, the Washington Park Zoo has provided a sanctuary for exotic animals rescued from adverse conditions. Whether removed from private homes, confiscated due to illegal ownership, or injured and unable to survive in the wild, all animals are offered environments tailored to their unique needs.

The exotic pet trade is a significant threat to wildlife populations. Tragically, mothers are often killed—either deliberately or inadvertently—when traffickers target infants for illegal smuggling and sale in the pet trade. Many species, especially primates, form complex family bonds and thrive in large social groups—environments that captivity cannot replicate. These animals require specialized care, diets, and habitats, making them unsuitable as pets. Nevertheless, thousands of primates are still kept in private homes across the United States, leading to dangers such as injuries, escapes, and the spread of zoonotic diseases.

Once the new lemur troop completes quarantine and the weather warms, they will move onto the island exhibit for the season. Their arrival promises to bring new life to the zoo for years to come. Alongside the excitement of the lemur troop’s arrival, the zoo is preparing to renovate the historic Monkey Island, constructed in 1934. There are plans for upgrades, including greenspaces and a heated primate holding facility for animal care, as well as new glass viewing room for visitors. The zoo would like to have these improvements in progress or completed before the zoo’s 100th anniversary in 2028. To support these efforts, the zoo has kicked off the “Swing into Action” Monkey Island fundraising campaign to reach its $2 million construction goal.

The Zoo is committed to providing better homes for the animals and a better Zoo for visitors, so we are always looking for donations and sponsors to achieve our vision for the future.

(Indianapolis, IN) – Hoosiers now have another tool for tracking gas prices, thanks to the Attorney General’s Office.

Todd Rokita has announced the launch of IN Fuel Watch, an online, real-time, searchable map tracking over 4,600 gas stations statewide. The website is  https://infuelwatch.com/. You can search by city, station name, or price.

Rokita says it can help drivers find the best prices in their area. “Hoosiers deserve clear, accessible information about gas prices in their communities,” Rokita said. “IN Fuel Watch gives you the ability to check local prices and see how they compare across the state. We know every penny matters right now and are committed to making sure you are treated fairly at the pump during this time.”

The user-friendly website features live statewide metrics — including the current average price and average change since the tax suspension began — along with color-coded indicators for each station: green for those dropping prices more than 17 cents below the April 8 level, yellow for moderate changes and red for any increases.

The Attorney General’s Office says the website can help them crack down on price-gouging and potentially investigate retailers with unjustifiably high prices. Rokita added that state legislators have made laws confusing when it comes to whether a gas station is gouging during an energy emergency.

“We’re proud of how quickly our team built and launched IN Fuel Watch,” said Chief Technology Officer Sreenath Bangaru. “This tool not only gives Hoosiers real-time transparency into gas prices across the state but also sends a clear message to retailers: our office is closely monitoring the situation."

Anyone who believes they have witnessed price gouging may file a complaint with Attorney General Rokita’s office at indianaconsumer.com. 

(Michigan City, IN) - Help from the public is sought to try and solve the armed robberies of three food delivery drivers in Michigan City.

In each case, police said the male suspect displayed a gun and fled on foot with the food orders.

The robberies happened Tuesday in the 100 block of Phillips St. and in the 600 block of E. 10^th St. on Wednesday and Thursday.  The suspect in all of the cases was described as an African-American, who struck about 7 p.m.  In two of the cases, police said the robber was wearing eyeglasses and had facial hair.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Michigan City Police.

(Michigan City, IN) - Michigan City Police are warning residents about an ongoing telephone scam where callers pretend to be law enforcement officers.

Police said the callers identifying themselves as officers tell people they are being held in contempt of court for failing to appear for jury duty in a federal case.  The image of a fake warrant for their arrest is also texted to the people, who are told their bond is in the thousands of dollars but, if they make the payment, the charges will be dismissed.

The text message may contain a link and/or an attachment with a Quick Response code for use to scan their payment.

“It is recommended the public delete these types of text messages and avoid interacting with unknown callers,” said MCPD Capt. Kevin Urbanczyk.

He also said law enforcement and/or court personnel will not call or text anyone to inform them they failed to appear for jury duty or ask for payment of bond to prevent an arrest.

“The public should remain alert as scammers repeatedly use urgent or demanding language and official-looking documents to pressure people into submitting payments,” he said.

(La Porte, IN) - A La Porte man took off running after the person he threatened with a knife pulled out a gun.

That’s the picture drawn from allegations filed against Bryan Cordovan, who's charged in La Porte Circuit Court with multiple counts including Level 5 felony intimidation with a deadly weapon.

According to police, Cordova on April 23 was on a bicycle when he asked a man for a ride in the area of Brighton and Heinz streets.  Cordova after his request was turned down began arguing and pulled out a folding knife that he held toward the man in a threatening manner, police said.

In response, police said the man pulled out a handgun.  Cordova dropped the knife and fled on foot but he was soon taken into custody after resisting attempts by officers to place him in handcuffs.

He’s also charged with resisting law enforcement, disorderly conduct and public intoxication.

(La Porte, IN) - A lottery ticket sold in La Porte is worth more than $71 million.

According to Hoosier Lottery officials, there were two winning tickets from Wednesday’s Powerball drawing.  The winners will split the $143 million jackpot.

One ticket was sold in Kansas while the other was sold in La Porte at Al's Supermarket at 702 E. Lincolnway.  So far, the lucky winners have not been identified.

Lottery officials say it’s the first winning Powerball jackpot ticket sold in Indiana since 2017.