(Vincennes, IN) - An Indiana farmer is urging Congress to solve a longstanding labor shortage in agriculture.

Brady Mouzin, an Indiana Farm Bureau member from downstate Knox County, expressed his thoughts in an op-ed released by Indiana Farm Bureau.

“If you’ve ever bought a cantaloupe at the local farmers market, picked up a watermelon for a Fourth of July cookout, or poured milk over your kids’ cereal before school, you’ve seen the work of Indiana agriculture up close. 

What many people don’t see is how hard it has become to find the workers needed to grow, harvest and care for the products families count on every day.  That is why Congress needs to pass H.R. 9535, the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act.

Finding dependable agricultural labor is not a new problem. Farmers have been dealing with labor shortages for years, while Washington has kicked the issue down the road. It’s been 40 years since Congress last passed major agricultural labor reform. In that time, farming has changed, but our labor system has not kept up.

Here in Indiana, that disconnect is real. Our farmers grow fruits and vegetables, raise livestock and operate dairies that need dependable help day in and day out. Crops don’t wait when labor falls short. Neither do animals.

Many farmers rely on the H-2A visa program to hire the agricultural workers they need, but the current system is expensive, slow and built mostly for seasonal agriculture. Use of the H-2A program is already up 17% for 2026 while fewer than 0.07% of those jobs received a domestic applicant. That tells you something important: farmers are not passing over willing American workers. They just aren’t applying.

The current H-2A program also comes with steep costs. Farmers must pay for housing, transportation, paperwork and government-mandated wages. One major problem is the wage formula known as the Adverse Effect Wage Rate. Over the last decade, that wage rate has risen by 60%, compared to 49% growth in private-sector wages. Farmers can’t just raise prices to make up for the difference. We sell into markets where the price is often set for us.

The Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act would help control labor cost spikes by capping year-over-year wage increases and stopping mid-contract wage changes. It would also modernize the application process and create a simpler system for farmers and workers to navigate.

Just as important for Indiana, the bill would expand access for year-round agriculture, including dairies and livestock operations.

There have been some loud voices that accuse this bill of granting “amnesty.” It does not. Amnesty is a political talking point. This bill is about legal workers, legal visas and a more dependable legal process for the farms that feed this country. It does not erase the law. It strengthens a lawful system that agriculture desperately needs.

This is not a partisan issue. It is a food issue, an economic issue and a rural community issue. In Indiana, we know that food security means national security, and if Congress wants to support American-grown food and protect family farms, it needs to act.

Hoosier farmers are not asking for a shortcut. We are asking for a system that works.

For the sake of my farm and farms like mine that depend on reliable agricultural labor, this reform can't wait another 40 years. Pass the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act,”

Mouzin is a fourth generation farmer whose family raises a variety of specialty crops that include watermelon, cantaloupe, sweet corn, pumpkins and squash.

(La Porte County, IN) - Indiana Department of Transportation maintenance crews will conduct seal coat operations on two stretches of Indiana 39, including one stretch in La Porte County.

According to INDOT, scrub seal operations on the highway will first occur on between U.S. 30 and Indiana 8 for approximately one day on or after Monday, August 3.

State Road 39 will then be scrub sealed between State Road 10 and State Road 14 in Starke and Pulaski counties over the course of approximately two days starting on or after Wednesday, August 5, INDOT said. 

Work will occur during the hours of 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Motorists are encouraged to seek alternate routes while seal coat operations are underway, but traffic will be escorted through the work zones for local access. Wait times of 15-20 minutes should be expected, according to INDOT.

(Michigan City, IN) - Nobody was injured but cats were rescued from a house fire in Michigan City yesterday.

This happened on Hillcrest Road just before 5 p.m.  Michigan City Fire Department spokesperson Tia Eckwood said the fire started in the kitchen, resulting in heavy smoke and fire damage.

Nobody was home at the time.

Eckwood said three cats were rescued and one had to be revived.  The cats were taken to an animal hospital for further care.  So far, no light has been shed on the cause of the fire, which was on the city’s southeast side.

(La Porte, IN) - A man left a local hardware store twice without paying for hundreds of dollars and more in merchandise.

Now, he’s looking at potential time in prison.

Donnie James, 30, is charged in La Porte Circuit Court with two counts of Level 6 felony theft.

On July 11, police said he stole several spools of wire from Kablein Ace Hardware on E. Lincolnway.  Two days later, the La Porte man allegedly stole more spools of wire along with a few hundred dollars in tools from the same store.

According to police, James was last seen leaving in a maroon colored sedan after the first theft and a black SUV following the second heist.

Police said investigators identified James from store surveillance video.

He was taken into custody Monday by Michigan City Police on a warrant issued for his arrest.  The stolen goods were valued at nearly $2,000.  He could face anywhere from a six month to 30 month sentence on each count.

(La Porte County, IN) - A stretch of highway in La Porte County has reopened.

U.S. 35 was closed from State Road 39 to U.S. 20 the past few weeks for a structure replacement.

According to state highway officials, repaving that stretch of U.S. 35 will begin tomorrow, depending on weather.  Flaggers will direct traffic where the paving is occurring.

(La Porte, IN) - A man whose car broke down in La Porte went straight to the police for help after allegedly consuming too much alcohol.

Marcus Cain, 41, of Michigan City is charged in La Porte Circuit Court with operating while intoxicated and possession of cocaine.

Police said Cain walked a few blocks to the police station on July 25 after his pink Chevy sedan broke down on Indiana Ave.  An odor of alcohol on his breath resulted in a test showing him allegedly with a blood alcohol level just above the legal limit.

Police said a plastic bag containing a small amount of cocaine was later recovered from his vehicle.

(La Porte County, IN) - Traffic was restricted on a local highway late this morning due to an accident involving a semi-truck.

Police say the westbound lanes of U.S. 20 were closed in the area of County Road 300 West near Springville just after 11 a.m.  The semi was reportedly hauling a steel coil.

We’ll provide more details once they’re made available.

(La Porte, IN) - A La Porte man is accused taking sexually suggestive pictures and videos of a teenage girl without her knowing about it.

Timothy Hall, III, 27, is charged in La Porte Circuit Court with Level 6 felony voyeurism.

According to court documents, Hall is answering to allegations that he took images of the girl with a camera while she was partially nude in a bathroom at a home sometime between 2021 and 2024.

Police said the investigation began in February when that and other images of the girl partially nude and fully clothed with her back to the camera were discovered on his cell phone.

The girl estimates the images were taken when she was 13 to 15, police said.

According to police, the charges were filed after repeated attempts by investigators to reach Hall for questioning as recently as July 1 failed.  He could face anywhere from a six month to 30 month sentence.

(La Porte County, IN) - A man following a single vehicle crash in Fish Lake was arrested for drunk driving just four months after convicted of the same offense.

Brandon Young, 29, is charged in La Porte Circuit Court with operating while intoxicated as a Level 6 felony.

According to La Porte County Police, Young left the pavement Monday afternoon on Locust Dr. and struck a tree stump then a large tree in a 2019 Chevy Silverado. Various parts from the vehicle such as brake pads along with pieces of plastic from the frame were left scattered in a yard. 

Police said two fences were also damaged by tires that separated from the truck.

According to police, Young told investigators he was heading to his home in Fish Lake from a friend’s house in New Carlisle and didn’t know what happened that led to the crash.  Police noted it was raining heavily with tornado warnings issued at the time.

His alleged blood alcohol level was not revealed but he showed obvious signs of serious impairment, police said.

In March, Young was sentenced to five days in the La Porte County Jail and 360 days on probation for Class A misdemeanor operating while intoxicated, according to court records.  The current charge was elevated to a felony due to him having a prior OWI conviction.

(La Porte, IN) - A half-naked woman about to have sex with a man at a park in La Porte is behind bars.

Kayla McGinnis, 35, is charged in La Porte Circuit Court with public indecency along with multiple drug related counts.

According to the charging information, an officer about 6 a.m. on July 23 was patrolling Fox Park when he spotted a woman inside a parked vehicle naked from the waist down.  Police said she was with a man, who told the officer they were at the park because they had no appropriate place to go for “alone time” since he’s married.

During a search, police said the La Porte woman was found with a small amount of methamphetamine, a psychedelic mushroom along with smoking pipes.

The still fully clothed man was allowed to go, police said.

(La Porte County, IN) - A solar energy company wanting to operate in La Porte County is defending its recently defeated project.

The La Porte County Board of Zoning Appeals voted 3 to 2 last week against a request by Hoosier Solar for a special exception to the current zoning to place solar panels on 300 acres in the southeast part of the county.

According to Hoosier Solar, the plans met or exceeded all of the requirements under the La Porte County solar ordinance and no rationale or factual basis has been provided to explain the grounds for denial.

Hoosier Solar officials say the company voluntarily committed to 500 foot solar panel setbacks from residences, well beyond what’s required by the ordinance, and planned to plant trees and shrubs that exceeded the local screening standards.

According to company officials, the project also would have generated about $24 million in local tax revenue over 35-years, compared to about $400,000 over the same time period from continued agriculture use.

Hoosier Solar CEO Steven Lichtin said the rejection of the plans was disappointing.

“We believe the decision was inconsistent with both the evidence presented and the standards established in La Porte County’s ordinance. Property owners, residents and project developers deserve a permitting process in which decisions are based on the adopted criteria and supported by the record so that the county’s ordinances are applied consistently, objectively and fairly,” he said.

Indiana Farm Bureau, the state’s largest general farming organization, will once again support agriculture at the Indiana State Fair.

“Indiana Farm Bureau always looks forward to hosting events that support consumer education and youth engagement through our partnership with the state fair,” said Randy Kron, INFB president.

“By sharing our story, we hope visitors walk away with a better understanding of the work farmers do every day and our common goal of growing healthy food for everyone.”

The annual Taste From Indiana Farms event, hosted by the INFB Women’s Leadership Committee, will take place in the INFB Fall Creek Pavilion. The popular, free event will be open from August 13-16 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Vvolunteers will pass out food and drink samples that contain ingredients Indiana farmers produce.

An assortment of commodities will be available for visitors to try, including pumpkin, soybeans, blueberries, grain, dairy, lamb, popcorn and chicken.

INFB will also continue its support of the 4-H youth livestock competitions at this year’s state fair. The organization will be the presenting sponsor of the exhibitor experience on the upper floor of the INFB Fall Creek Pavilion for livestock exhibitors to relax and engage with each other through games and activities taking place August 7-9.

upper floor of the INFB Fall Creek Pavilion for livestock exhibitors to relax and engage with each other through games and activities taking place August 7-9.

The Indiana State Fair takes place August 7-23, except on Mondays, at the Indiana State Fairgrounds and Event Center in Indianapolis.

 the upper floor of the INFB Fall Creek Pavilion for livestock exhibitors to relax and engage with each other through games and activities taking place August 7-9.

The Indiana State Fair takes place August 7-23, except on Mondays, at the Indiana State Fairgrounds and Event Center in Indianapolis.

(Michigan City, IN) - Police say no evidence has been found of a dog being mistreated by a Michigan City animal control officer.

That’s according to Michigan City Police Chief Steve Forker, who said the decision was based on video footage of the incident and other information such as a history of the animal attacking other dogs.

He said the matter was under review before social media posts alleging mistreatment of the dog by the officer began surfacing.

“While short video clips can generate concern, they do not always capture the full context of an incident and may not reflect the totality of the circumstances surrounding an officer’s actions,” he said.

Forker said the dog has documented “high-energy and aggressive behavior” that once resulted in a prior use of force report after pepper spray was needed to stop the dog from fighting with another animal.

In general, he said animal control officers are committed to treating every animal with care and professionalism but handling unpredictable and aggressive animals often requires officers to make real- time decisions that balance the welfare of the animal with the safety of everyone involved.

“We appreciate the community’s interest in the welfare of animals and remain committed to transparency, accountability and the human treatment of every animal entrusted to our care,” he said.

(Berrien County, MI) - A fund raiser near Three Oaks generated over $40,000 for a police officer from just across the state line continuing his recovery from being shot.

Over 200 people attended the fund raiser Sunday, July 26, at Deer Creek Hunt Club. A $95 ticket included a barbecue lunch and other side dishes like sweet corn and a round of skeet shooting along with live music.

The Berrien County Sheriff’s Office provided the shotgun shells for the over 150 people who took part in firing at clay pigeons.  Additional funds were raised during a silent auction for items ranging from a charter boat fishing trip to a football, helmet and jersey donated by the Chicago Bears.

“It was a great event for a great cause.  We continue to keep Jon in our thoughts and prayers,” said Berrien County Sheriff Chuck Heit.

La Porte County Sheriff’s Deputy Jon Samuelson is at a rehabilitation center after hospitalized for several weeks when shot multiple times in May.  One of the bullets lodged in his upper spine causing paralysis from the chest down.

According to family members, the 33-year old Samuelson is experiencing tingling, movement and occasional spasms in his legs and lower back.  He’s spending up to five hours a day in therapy doing things like hand pedaling a mountain bike. Samuelson has also transitioned from an electric to a standard wheelchair.

“He told me the absolute, 100-percent thing that he’s focused on is walking again.  He’s very determined,” said Mike Kellems, a former co-worker, who has visited Samuelson a few times since the shooting.

The suspect, Sharrod Grafton, Jr., 22. of Chicago continues to be held on $100,000 cash only bond after his request for a lower bail was denied by a judge on June 12. He’s scheduled for trial on November 9 on charges that include Level 1 felony attempted murder.

Authorities said Grafton after stealing his mother’s car at gunpoint in Chicago was in La Porte County when Samuelson thinking he was a disabled motorist stopped to help.  Samuelson as requested drove Grafton to Franciscan Health, a hospital near Michigan City, and left but soon returned after learning he was a suspect in the auto theft.

After confronting Grafton, there was a struggle before Samuelson was shot in the emergency room area.

Playing a lead role in the fund raiser was State Representative Randy Novak of Michigan City, who revealed there were a number of sponsors for the event contributing anywhere from $250 to $2,500 apiece.  The funds are going to Samuelson and his wife, Quinn, to help them out financially.

“What we did is just a small, small thing in the big picture to try and make his life a little easier, a little better in the future,” he said.

A strong storm early this afternoon has produced thousands of power outages including some in La Porte County.

According to NIPSCO, there were 400 customers without power at 3 p.m. in its La Porte service territory and nearly 300 in its Michigan City service area.

The storms produced heavy rains and strong winds.

The La Porte Water Department reported 1.28 inches of rain fell between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. with most of the precipitation coming down in just over a one hour period.

The rain started coming down heavy again about 3:15 p.m.

NIPSCO reported more than 28,000 outages with many of those in places like Dyer and Crown Point, which combined had over 6,000 customers without service. 

(La Porte, IN) - Fox Park in La Porte was packed for the Saturday night concert by Uncle Kracker as part of the annual Lakefest.

Uncle Kracker, who put together a string of hit singles beginning in the 1990’s, performed for more than one hour before leaving the stage, but he soon came back for an encore performance.

Among the people close to the stage was Tabitha Aguilar, a fan of Uncle Kracker since childhood.  Among her favorite Uncle Kracker songs is Follow Me and Smile.

“He was one of the first CD’s I got as a teenager,” she said.

La Porte Park Department Superintendent Mark Schreiber and Mayor Tom Dermody were impressed by the crowd being nearly packed two hours before Uncle Kracker took the stage.

“We knew Uncle Kracker would have some broad appeal.  He’s country. He’s rock.  He’s got a lot of connections whether it’s Kid Rock or Kenny Chesney, so he’s got a big audience,” Schreiber said.

(La Porte County, IN) - A Michigan City man could face a lengthy prison sentence on allegations he provided the drugs that caused an overdose death.

Michael Stalling, Jr., 28, is charged in LaPorte Superior Court 1 with dealing in a controlled substance causing death, a Level 1 felony punishable by a 20 to 40 year sentence.

According to the charging information, he sold three pills containing fentanyl to 22-year old Brayden Hayman in December of 2024. 

After returning to his LaPorte area home, Hayman, who had twice been in a drug rehabilitation program, was found dead the next morning by his father in a basement bedroom, authorities said.

The LaPorte County Coroner’s Office ruled cause of death as an accidental overdose based on a blood test taken during the autopsy that found fentanyl in the victim’s system.

Nearly a year later, authorities said evidence such as cell phone records led detectives to Stalling, who admitted selling Hayman fentanyl in small amounts in the past and on the night prior to his death.

According to the charging information, Stalling told police he sold Hayman three pills that night for $40 but they did not contain enough fentanyl to kill him. 

The investigation also shows Hayman had a history of drug use since high school and his parents believed he had been sober in recent months after he obtained employment.

It’s believed Hayman purchased the drugs from Stalling after leaving to pick-up a pizza for a football game he and his father planned to watch on TV together.  His father told investigators his son wasn’t gone long but later that night he began falling asleep and went to bed.

Stalling was taken into custody July 22 on a warrant issued two days prior to his arrest.  He was being held in the LaPorte County Jail on $100,000 bond.

(La Porte, IN) - Three people from two separate residences were taken to hospitals following an early Monday morning fire in LaPorte.

Just after 3 a.m., firefighters responded to a duplex on fire at 1401 Federal Ave. by Koomler Park on the city’s south side.

LaPorte Fire Chief Andy Snyder said a man and woman in the unit where the fire started were awakened by smoke and managed to escape.  Upon arrival, he said firefighters found both people in the front yard with about half of their living unit engulfed in flames.

Snyder said the man semi-unconscious at the time along with the woman were taken by ambulance to Northwest Health hospital in La Porte with smoke inhalation and possible other injuries.  The man was later transported to a hospital in Chicago.

Snyder said he was not sure if the man suffered any burns.

A short time later, a man living on the other side of the duplex, who also escaped, complained of trouble breathing and was taken by ambulance with smoke inhalation.

“At first, he seemed like he was doing o.k.  After several minutes, it was found he was starting to have trouble breathing so, as a precautionary measure, they called an ambulance back for him,” Snyder said.

Snyder said the fire brought under control “fairly quickly” was contained to the heavily damaged unit where the fire started while the other unit sustained smoke damage and maybe a little water damage.

There didn’t appear to be any smoke detectors in the home where the fire began, he said.

The state fire marshal’s office was brought in to assist with trying to determine the cause of the fire because there were injuries involved.  The names of the injured people were not released.

(La Porte County, IN) - Work is ongoing to repair a La Porte County road that was abruptly closed.

On Friday morning Division Road was closed between Boyd Boulevard and about a quarter mile west of Fail Road. La Porte County Commissioner Steve Holifield said a sink hole was beginning to develop, possibly due to water backed up inside a collapsed drain tile.

On Saturday a crew repaired the hole temporarily and reopened the roadway. Division will close again and work will continue Sunday into Monday, if necessary, as the drain tile is repaired. In the meantime, Holifield recommends that motorists avoid that area of Division Road until further notice.

(New Carlisle, IN) - New Prairie school kids return to classrooms in just a couple of weeks. The Town of New Carlisle is once again bringing summer to a close with their Hometown Days festival.

Most activities are centered around Memorial Park, unless you like yard sales, which are scattered across the area this weekend. If you don’t drive a golf cart, like seemingly most people in town and don’t want to fight for parking, shuttle rides are available. Stops are conveniently located at various places around town.

Saturday’s attractions include live music, a free photo booth, magic shows, even a professional jump-roper. There’s a break in the action at midday (11:00 am Central, for La Porte County “slow-timers”) for the town’s summer parade. New Prairie Athletic League’s Babe Ruth State Champion softball team will be among the many participants. On Saturday evening there’s a hobby horse obstacle course for kids. Apparently, stick horse equestrian is the latest thing.

If Hometown Days has a centerpiece, many people will say it’s the Whiffle Ball tournament, which draws hundreds of yellow-bat-swinging ball players from multiple states. This year’s tournament is bitter-sweet, following the recent announcement by the hometown team, the New Carlisle Newts, that Migley Field will host its final game this year. Migley, short for “Mini- Wrigley,” was built in 2006 in the back yard of a residence at the corner of Bray and Dunn Streets. Town leaders are actively seeking a permanent relocation for Migley. In the meantime, games go on all day Saturday, with a grand farewell celebration on Sunday during the Hometown Cup Finals.

Other Sunday activities will include a community church service and more live music, concluding with local favorite Elvis… and his Sweet Sensations. For more details and a complete schedule of events, check out hometowndays.net.

(Michigan City, IN) – Recently an influx of kittens made for close quarters at La Porte’s small animal shelter. Turns out, a cat shelter in Michigan City may be even more crowded and needs some help.

Fried’s Cat Shelter on Highway 212 has hundreds of feline residents. A couple of case studies serve to illustrate their predicament.

Shelter workers report they have been helping with a hoarding situation in recent years. They say the resident's husband acquired a single pregnant female cat back in 2017. The litter grew to a very unmanageable size, until nearly 100 cats were recently rescued from the home.

And recently police performed a welfare check at a local motel, where a long-term resident had passed away in bed. Next to the deceased was an emaciated, feces-covered, and apparently very loyal older cat. Fried’s has been nursing the feline, named Isabel, back to health.

Not all of the shelter’s stories have happy endings. Take for example, the case of an unfortunate cat, later named Speedy, that was thrown from a moving vehicle along I-94 earlier this month. A passing motorist stopped and retrieved Speedy, who was badly injured. A cat lover who was visiting the shelter at the time insisted on paying for Speedy’s emergency medical care, and the Good Samaritan who rescued her offered to adopt the suffering cat. Sadly, Speedy didn’t make it. But, as Fried’s staff optimistically noted, one person’s act of cruelty sparked other acts of kindness.

In between interventions, rescues, and adoptions, the staff at Fried’s has been organizing an open house, the Paws & Claws Showcase, which takes place Saturday. They have invited shelters, rescues, and animal organizations from around the area to set up booths and spread the word about pet adoption. The event takes place Saturday, July 25 from 11 am to 3 pm.

If you have any cat care supplies, or can give a kitty a fur-ever home, they’d love to have you visit.

(La Porte County, IN) - A man released from a traffic stop in La Porte County was later returning from Michigan when stopped by the same officer and found with a large amount of marijuana.

Kelvin Ezell, 45, is charged in La Porte Superior Court 1 with Level 5 felony dealing in marijuana.

According to La Porte County Police, Ezell was a passenger in a car he rented the previous night in Mississippi when the driver was pulled over just before 8 a.m. Thursday on Interstate 94 outside Michigan City.

Police said the men claiming to be going to New Buffalo for a “two day vacation” were found with a small amount of “personal use” marijuana.

The discovery led to a search of the vehicle and finding of an estimated $10,000 in cash inside a nearly empty suitcase in the trunk.  Police said the officer allowed the men to go since the amount of marijuana was small and no other forms of contraband were found.

Just over three hours later, police said the officer monitoring traffic at the same location spotted the vehicle with Ezell driving this time heading back from Michigan. Suspecting they might be involved in criminal activity, the officer caught up to the vehicle and, eventually, pulled it over.

Inside the trunk of the car was a previously empty large plastic tote now containing 15 one pound bags of marijuana, police said.  Police said there was also marijuana inside three one ounce bags and 55 pre-rolled cigarettes in the tote along with two jars containing marijuana and three THC vapes, police said.

No money was found in the vehicle during the second search.

Police said both men were being questioned when Ezell admitted the marijuana belonged to him.  Ezell, who’s from Columbia, Missouri was being held in the La Porte County Jail on $15,000 bond.  He could face a one to six-year sentence.

In his report, sheriff’s deputy Wade Wallace, who was involved in the traffic stop, said he believes the men went to Michigan to purchase the marijuana since it’s legal in that state to later sell on the black market.

(La Porte County, IN) - A La Porte County road was temporarily closed today.

Division Road is closed about a quarter mile west of Fail Road.

La Porte County Commissioner Steve Holifield said the reason is believed to be a broken drain tile crews will work to confirm and repair, if necessary, so the road can reopen as quickly as possible.

“I’m hoping we can have this done in 24 hours,” said he said.

Holifield said a sink hole was beginning to develop possibly due to water backing up inside the collapsed drain tile.

Division Road was closed from Fail Road to Boyd Boulevard. 

(La Porte, IN) - A man could face deportation after arrested in La Porte for drunk driving.

Augustin Magana, 38, was being held in the La Porte County Jail on charges that include operating while intoxicated.

La Porte County Police said Magana on July 19 was stopped for failing to use a turn signal at Lincolnway and Rose St. and straddling the center line while traveling. Police said he put up a struggle during his arrest and one of the officers was hurt as a result with pain and swelling along with bruising to his hand and wrist.

Magana allegedly revealed he’s been in the U.S. illegally for over 20 years.

Police said his blood alcohol level was over three times the legal limit.  Magana was also being held for federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for possible deportation.

(Michigan City, IN) - A teenager was taken to a hospital with burns from a house fire in Michigan City.

Firefighters about 1:30 a.m. on Wednesday responded to the 900 block of W. 4^th St.

A medical helicopter was called for a 16-year old boy who had what was described as “pretty severe burns” to his chest, arms and face.  An ambulance was called for a man at the home reported to be in his 30’s with less serious burns.

Michigan City Fire Department spokesperson Tia Eckwood said the fire began in a bedroom and was nearly out when firefighters arrived.   She said the fire was contained to the middle of the bedroom with just minimal damage. 

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, she said.

The names of the injured people were not available.

(La Porte County, IN) - One person was injured this morning in a motor vehicle collision with a tree in La Porte County.

Emergency responders about 7:30 a.m. were called to the area of 150 North and 850 East.  Initial reports indicated a medical helicopter was called for the driver whose legs were into the dashboard.

The driver was conscious and complained of pain to his knee and chest.

So far, police have not released any information about the crash, which is under investigation, but we’ll provide those details once they’re made available.

(Michigan City, IN) - The Salvation Army serving La Porte County will welcome leaders from Google for its annual Light the Path Civic Luncheon.

The luncheon is scheduled August 7 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Blue Chip Casino.

Featured speakers will be Broderick Green, Public Affairs Manager for Google, and Tiffany McCree, Community & Workforce Development Manager for Google.  Google will be the operators of a data center now under construction in Michigan City on Royal Road. 

The discussion will be moderated by Katie Eaton, Public Affairs Manager for NIPSCO and member of The Salvation Army of Michigan City's Advisory Board.

Guests will hear how Google's mission and corporate values help create hope and opportunity across communities, while exploring the important role businesses can play in supporting nonprofit organizations and addressing community needs.

"We are honored to welcome Google to La Porte County and grateful for the opportunity to hear directly from leaders who are helping shape corporate engagement on a national scale," said Major Becky Simmons, who oversees The Salvation Army's operations in Michigan City and La Porte alongside her husband, Major Dale Simmons.

"We look forward to learning more about Google's values and discussing how corporations can partner with nonprofit organizations to create meaningful change,” she said.

Proceeds from the event will support The Salvation Army's case management programs serving La Porte County residents.  These programs help individuals and families overcome barriers to stability by connecting them with resources, developing personalized action plans and working toward long-term solutions that break the cycle of generational poverty.

Individual tickets are $50 per person.  Table sponsorships are available for $600 and include seating for ten guests, promotional recognition and support for Salvation Army programs serving local residents.

Tickets and sponsorships can be purchased at salarmy.us/lightthepath2026.  For additional information, contact Jessica O'Brien at jessica.obrien@usc.salvationarmy.org or call (219) 874-6885.

(La Porte, IN) - A man is facing drug and alcohol related charges for being in Walmart when he threatened to blow up the store in La Porte.

Police said 58 year old Michael Zurcher was upset because nobody could answer his questions during his visit to the store last week.  At one point, the La Porte man allegedly threatened to blow up the store and, in response, a store employee called police.

Authorities said Zurcher told investigators he wasn’t really going to blow up the place, saying he was just having a bad day.

Police said he was drinking alcohol from a Gatorade bottle and had over three grams of methamphetamine along with some marijuana on his possession.

He was being held in the La Porte County Jail on $750 bond.

(La Porte County, IN) - A request to put up a 450-foot tall communications tower in La Porte County has been turned down.

The tower providing financial information from Chicago to New York would have been placed on about 30 acres on 1000 North in Springfield Township.  Currently, such a tower under local regulations cannot be more than 190 feet in height.  That’s why a special exception was sought from the La Porte County Board of Zoning Appeals, which denied the request Tuesday night.

La Porte County Commissioner Steve Holifield said many nearby residents felt such a tall tower would be an eyesore in a scenic area featuring a lot of rolling countryside.

“People don’t want it.  That’s extreme,” he said.

Concerns were also expressed by BZA members about a house on the property that could be hit if the tower ever fell.  The tower would have been used to transmit financial information from Chicago to New York.

Holifield said another company is interested in putting up a similar tower close to where he lives in the Mill Creek area.  He hopes the BZA decision will encourage that company to look elsewhere.

“I hope it sends a strong message to them.  We don’t want you.  Go away,” he said.  

(La Porte County, IN) - A proposed solar energy farm in La Porte County is dead, at least for now.

The La Porte County Board of Zoning Appeals has voted against plans for a solar farm on hundreds of acres of farmland in the far southeast part of the county.  The Tuesday night decision not to grant Hoosier Solar a special exception to the current agricultural zoning was unanimous.

La Porte County Commissioner Steve Holifield supports the decision but feels it could be challenged in a courtroom.  He doesn’t want La Porte to become like some of the surrounding counties that already have thousands of solar panels.

“I don’t want La Porte County to look like Starke and Pulaski which has 55,000 acres of those things.  It’s not good for anything,” he said.

His other concerns include taking more farmland out of production.

Hoosier Solar wanted to install solar panels in the area of Indiana 104 near the St. Joseph County line.

“I look for them to sue us just because they didn’t get their way,” Holifield said.

(La Porte, IN) - A La Porte man could face time behind bars for allegedly posting nude photos of an ex-girlfriend on social media without her permission.

Zachary Luker, 21, is charged in La Porte Circuit Court with two counts of Class A misdemeanor distribution of an intimate image, Class B misdemeanor false informing and Level 6 felony obstruction of justice.

According to the charging information, the investigation began in late June when the alleged victim told La Porte Police that Luker took screenshots of her naked during a “video call” and posted them on Twitter without permission from her.

When questioned by investigators, police said Luker admitted posting the pictures but claimed he had her permission.

The alleged victim when contacted again by police insisted she did not authorize the posting of any of the nude photos.

Luker was not arrested but given a summons to appear in court on the allegations.

(La Porte, IN) - Details have been released about parking for the annual LakeFest in La Porte, a three day event that begins on Friday.

A wide array of activities will be held at Pine, Stone and Clear lakes. Featured events will include a Family Beach Bash at Stone Lake, kids’ activities along with an artisan market and live music.

La Porte Park Department Superintendent Mark Schreiber said residents should take note of nearby parking.

“LakeFest has grown into one of our community's most cherished summer traditions, and we're excited to welcome residents and visitors for another incredible weekend," he said.

"With activities taking place across all three lakes, we encourage everyone to plan ahead, arrive early for our larger events and take advantage of the parking options we've made available. A little planning will help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable LakeFest experience," he said.

Parking for LakeFest attendees will be available at the following locations:

• Friday through Sunday at Fox Park: Parking will be allowed in all the lots surrounding the Dennis F. Smith Amphitheater and Ron Reed Field. Opening at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, the south lot off McClung Road will be available for Premier Parking Pass holders only. Also on Saturday evening, parking will be allowed at Scharf Field and auxiliary lots off Truesdell across from The Banks and off Clear Lake Boulevard across from Dunes Event Center.
• Saturday through Sunday at Soldiers Memorial Park: Parking will be allowed in the Stone Lake Beach House lot, the Cummings Lodge lot, and along Grangemouth Road from the beach house to Lakeshore Drive on the east side of the road. Overflow parking will be allowed along Veterans Parkway and at the Park Office.
• Additional parking: The Steam Through History on Pine Lake excursions launch from Unity Park Friday through Sunday, with overflow parking available at the Health Foundation of La Porte Conference & Learning Center on East Shore Parkway.

Schreiber also noted the following road/trail closures for events:

• The southwestern portion of the Clear Lake Trail (formerly Hoelocker Drive) will be closed to pedestrians from 11 a.m.- 11 p.m. on Friday for fireworks staging.
• Truesdell Avenue will be closed from 8:25 p.m. to 9:10 p.m. on Friday for the safety of the fireworks spectators.
• Truesdell Avenue, from Clear Lake Boulevard to McClung Road, will be closed to through traffic from 6:30 a.m. until approximately 10 a.m. on Saturday for the Bolt for the Heart/Play For Jake 5K Run/Walk.

Schreiber also noted that festival attendees should plan to bring credit/debit cards with them. He said that while some food and craft vendors may accept cash, all LakeFest-run bars, merchandise tables and event registrations will be cashless.

To learn more or view the full schedule of events, visit laportelakefest.com.

(La Porte, IN) - There’s been a change regarding the fireworks show during the upcoming annual LakeFest in La Porte.

LakeFest, which runs for three days, begins on Friday.

La Porte Park Department Superintendent Mark Schreiber said the fireworks show above Clear Lake during LakeFest will be Friday night instead of Saturday night as in previous years.

“Hopefully, we’ll get a big crowd out there and everybody just really enjoys what’s going to be a kick-off to what we feel is one of the best weekends of the year,” he said.

Other LakeFest happenings Friday night include a wiffle ball home run derby at Ron Reed Field and live music at the nearby Dennis F. Smith Amphitheater at Fox Park along with steamboat rides on Pine Lake during each day of the festival. 

The headline performer Saturday night will be Uncle Kracker, a former member of Kid Rock's band who scored a number of multi-platinum hits beginning in the 1990's 

For a complete Lakefest schedule, go to laportelakefest.com.

(La Porte County, IN) - A La Porte County Jail inmate is accused of breaking sprinkler heads that caused water to pour temporarily into his cell each time.

Jordan Fetters, 34, of Michigan City is charged in La Porte Circuit Court with Level 6 felony vandalism.

According to the charging information, Fetters on July 3 broke a sprinkler head in his cell with an undisclosed act of force.  A new sprinkler head was installed so the fire suppression system in the jail could be reactivated.

The next day, Fetters with force allegedly broke the new sprinkler head.  Water each time poured out from where the sprinkler heads were broken until the water was turned off.

According to court records, Fetters has been in the jail since May on a theft charge.

(La Porte County, IN) - A several-mile trip on an antique farm tractor in La Porte County Tuesday night resulted in the arrest of the driver for being impaired by alcohol after crashing into several mailboxes and causing other damage.

Daniel Krupa, 38, of Westville was booked into the La Porte County Jail for Class A misdemeanor operating while intoxicated.

According to La Porte County Police, officers about 11 p.m. (CDT) were dispatched to the area of Otis Road and County Road 100 North between Westville and Michigan City.  A woman following him reported seeing the tractor pulling a disc mower strike several mailboxes.

Upon arrival, police said officers found a 1975 John Deere farm tractor attached to a 2017 New Holland disc mower commonly used for cutting hay.  The disc mower was missing a tire from one of its wheels, allowing the rim to make heavy gouge marks in the pavement.  Police said another wheel on the hay cutter was bent in a way that would not allow the tire to roll.

An officer followed a trail of heavy gouge marks in the pavement for several miles into Porter County and noticed several recycling totes left beside the road for pick-up knocked over.

According to police, Krupa showing multiple signs of impairment told investigators he consumed only a mixed drink containing bourbon a few hours earlier in the evening.  He also denied knowing he had struck anything along the way, police said.

A portable breathalyzer test allegedly showed he had a blood alcohol level close to three times the legal limit.  He refused to take a certified blood alcohol test, though, which led to his automatic arrest under Indiana law for driving impaired, police said.

Police said a man and woman who know Krupa showed up at the crash site and were allowed to drive off with the tractor and have a tow truck come for the disc mower.

Krupa was being held in the La Porte County Jail on $900 bond.

(New Buffalo, MI) - A general manager has been hired for a new team of major league baseball hopefuls to play in New Buffalo beginning next summer.

The nickname of the team will also be unveiled July 30 at the new high school baseball field where the team will play about 40 home games a season from late May to mid-August.  The first name of the team is Dune Coast because of Lake Michigan and the dunes surrounding it in southwest Michigan and northwest Indiana.

Blagica Bottigliero will oversee the business and “operational engine” of the team, said co-owner Brian Williams, a New Buffalo resident and scout for the Texas Rangers.

Williams said one of her major focuses is building a brand that resonates with the region from Benton Harbor and St. Joseph to La Porte, Michigan City and Valparaiso in Indiana.

“She has the experience and know-how to run what is the marketing and sales aspect of our organization,” he said.  

Bottigliero lived in New Buffalo for two years and was involved in the community before moving back several years ago to the Detroit area where she grew up.  She’s a graduate of Western Michigan University.

“I could not be more pumped to take on this role,” she said.

Williams said Bottigliero was already involved with the team as a consultant under contract doing things like shaping the brand of the team in recent months before hired as general manager primarily for her skills in areas like digital marketing and digital advertising.

“Building a team from the ground up is a rare opportunity.  My goal is to make Dune Coast baseball a place people are proud to be part of on the field and off,” she said.

The nickname of the team will be unveiled during an event that begins at 8 p.m. with a youth skills competition featuring things like kids running the bases, a home run derby from behind second base and possibly a radar gun recording the speed of each pitch.

“We definitely wanted to involve the youth,” he said.

After the competition, Williams said the nickname and logo of the team will be unveiled after the newly installed lights are turned on for the first time.

“It should be a really fun time,” he said.

Four finalists were chosen from over 150 nicknames submitted during an online contest.  The finalists are Breakers, Quillbacks, Phantoms and Lightning.

The team will be in the Northwoods League, which has produced more than 400 major league players since the early 1990’s.  The league consists of college players nationwide looking to improve their chances of being drafted by major league teams by continuing to compete during the summer.

Major league players such as potential hall of famers Max Scherzer and Chris Sale along with current Chicago Cubs star second baseman Nico Hoerner played in the league.

Williams said grandstand seating for about 500 people or more will be added to the park in the fall.

(La Porte, IN) - A major road in the City of La Porte will be closed soon.

Beginning Monday, July 27, Boyd Boulevard will be closed from Indiana 2 to Jefferson Ave. for a major storm-water drainage improvement project.

The road will reopen in mid-September, said Craig Phillips, Director of Planning for the city.

“I believe we have put notices out through our communications director on social media,” he said.

Phillips said motorists during the road closure will be able to reach local businesses on Boyd Boulevard from Monroe St. 

One of the reasons for the project is to increase the storm water drainage capacity making it possible for businesses in that area to expand.

His comments were made at this morning’s Board of Public Works and Safety meeting.

(Berrien Springs, MI) - A family-owned Michigan fruit farm has taken a major step aimed at continued growth just one year short of its 100^th birthday.

Hildebrand Fruit Farms didn’t waste time putting its new and much larger packing facility to use after a July 16 ribbon cutting.  Peaches started being packed the next day in the near 30,000 square foot building, which has twice as much space as the previous 60-year old facility.

Owner Mike Hildebrand, a fourth generation owner/operator of the farm near Berrien Springs in the southwest part of the state, said there was barely any room left in the old packing facility to take in more fruit.  He said the packing facility used to be owned by Dave Pagel, who was in the business of packing fruit for area farmers for 40 years until retiring.

Hildebrand said the farm purchased the packing facility eight-years ago.  At the time, it was large enough to pack fruit from the Hildebrand farm and other area growers but as more growers were added the packing facility just over a mile from the Hildebrand farm became too small.

“We were just out of space and kept growing.  Eventually, our building was going to be a limiting factor on growth,” he said.

The $4 million project was assisted with a $175,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.  The funds were taken from MDARD’s Food and Agriculture Investment Program aimed at providing financial support for food and agriculture projects selected based on their impact on the industry in the state.

MDARD Director Tim Boring said expansion projects like the one at Hildebrand Fruit Farms strengthen regional food systems, support jobs and, ultimately, drive economic impact.

“With a rich history and dedication to community, farms like Hildebrand are the backbone of Michigan’s Agriculture Industry,” he said.

The new packing facility also has a more efficient layout along with increased capacity and equipment options.

The roots of the farm stretch back to 1912 when Adolph Hildebrand, a German displaced by war, immigrated from modern-day Ukraine to the U.S.  He settled in nearby St. Joseph where he met his future wife, Alma.

Both of them worked in a factory but they purchased the original 40 acre farm in 1927 because of dust in the workplace causing respiratory problems.  Mrs. Hildebrand grew up on a fruit farm and taught her husband how to grow peaches, apples, strawberries, raspberries, grapes and other fruit.  Most of what they grew was sold at a farmers market about 25 miles away from the farm across the Indiana state line in South Bend.

Eventually, more land was added to the farm, which now has about 300 acres of apples, peaches, pears and grapes.

“We’ve been very blessed to have more customers.  More business,” he said.

Hildebrand said the new ground includes a farm purchased when he decided as a senior in high school that he wanted to join the family’s operation.

One of the reasons he had the new packing facility built is to continue growing the business for his three children after they recently expressed an interest in becoming the next owner/operators of the family farm.

“So, it’s like.  Let’s go.  It’s now or never,” he said.

The old packing facility has been turned into a market for selling fruit.  Hildebrand said the new packing facility was going to be constructed, regardless, but the grant helped soften the financial blow.

“Every dollar helps,” he said.

(La Porte, IN) - A five million dollar grant has been secured for construction of a new YMCA in La Porte.

The grant from the state has been accepted by the city’s Board of Public Works & Safety.  The site of the new YMCA is at New Porte Landing just outside Fox Park.

City Planner Craig Phillips said it’s a great location because of what’s offered in the surrounding area such as trails.

“Things like trails, housing, shopping opportunities being nearby and the possibility of additional residential (construction) in the nearby area in the future.  It’s a good location for his project,” he said.

Phillips said the grant will pay for site development and infrastructure.  The YMCA and Health Foundation of La Porte are raising funds to cover the cost of constructing the building.

A date for starting construction has not been set.

Mayor Tom Dermody said he would like the see the old YMCA location downtown turned into affordable senior housing.

Overnight lane closures will start this week on a stretch of Interstate 94 that includes La Porte County.

According to the Indiana Department of Transportation, the lane closures will occur between Indiana 49 and the U.S. 20/35 exit.

Alternating lane closures will happen between Indiana 49 and U.S. 421 from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. starting on or after Tuesday to set up a new traffic configuration. 

In the new traffic configuration, INDOT said eastbound traffic will return to the eastbound side of I-94 with two lanes shifted to the right starting on or after Wednesday.

Starting on or after the evening of July 25, westbound traffic will be shifted to utilize counterflow lanes on the eastbound side of I-94 starting near U.S. 421.

Westbound traffic will then switch back over to the westbound side around mile marker 29. This configuration will be in place through late August for resurfacing operations.

Alternating lane closures on I-94 are also planned between U.S. 421 and U.S. 20/35 during the overnight hours of 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.   Overnight work will start on or after Wednesday through Saturday morning and then resume the following week, according to INDOT. 

This work is in relation to the full bridge deck replacement on Bleck Rd over I-94, which includes restrictions on I-94.

Motorists should be prepared for changing traffic layouts over the course of the next two weeks, especially during overnight hours. INDOT encourages drivers to consider safety for all by slowing down, using extra caution and driving distraction-free when travelling in and around all work zones.

(La Porte County, IN) - A man is facing allegations of drunk driving after slamming into a tree in La Porte County last night.

Richard Chambers, 59, was booked into the La Porte County Jail on Class A misdemeanor operating while intoxicated.

La Porte County Police said the crash happened in the 6800 block of N. Range Road. Chambers told investigators he hit the tree after swerving to miss a deer.  His alleged blood alcohol level was .299-percent or more than three times the legal limit.

Police said the accident was discovered by a pair of Door Dash drivers who told investigators they spotted Chambers in the back seat trying to get out of the vehicle.

(La Porte County, IN) - A downstate man was arrested in La Porte County for having a large amount of dispensary marijuana products from Michigan.

Adam Musick, 44, of West Lafayette was jailed Sunday evening on a charge of Level 6 felony possession of marijuana.

According to La Porte County Police, an officer spotted the man traveling at a speed noticeably higher than other motorists in the area of U.S. 421 and Indiana 2 in Westville.

Police said the officer began following the man who was pulled over after making an unsafe lane movement and tailgating.  Four dispensary bags containing a number of THC vapes, THC infused gummies and raw marijuana were allegedly recovered from the vehicle.

Police said the products were valued at slightly more than $1,000.

Musick is also being held on a warrant out of Illinois charging him with failure to appear in court on a previous undisclosed charge. 

(Michigan City, IN) - A 13-year old boy is charged with seriously wounding another teenager in Michigan City by stabbing him.

According to Michigan City Police, the boy is charged Level 3 felony aggravated battery and two counts of Level 5 felony battery.

Police said the stabbing happened late Saturday afternoon at a home in the 900 block of Ohio St. where a 19 year old man was found with a life threatening puncture wound to his back.

He was transported to Franciscan Health hospital.

Police said the suspect was located inside the residence and arrested once multiple items of undisclosed evidence was found during a search of the home.  He was being held in the La Porte County Juvenile Services Center.

Police said the stabbing occurred following an argument between the victim and suspect.

(Michigan City, IN) - Michigan City High School has hired a new principal.

Lucas Snyder will take over this upcoming school year. Snyder previously was principal at Barker Middle School since 2020. Prior to that, he was a teacher, coach, and assistant athletic director at the high school.

MCHS was under interim leadership following the abrupt resignation of former principal Mohamed Mroueh in March.

Replacing Snyder as principal at Barker Middle School will be Todd Dermody. Dermody spent the past three years as Dean of Students at Watervliet Middle and High School in Michigan. Prior to that Dermody was a math teacher at Krueger Middle School.

(South Bend, IN) - The Indiana State Police Trooper who was shot in the line of duty last Friday is now home with his family.

One week after being shot three times outside of Michigan City, Sgt. Justin Heflin walked out of South Bend’s Memorial Hospital Friday. Dozens of law enforcement officers and other well-wishers formed an honor guard and saluted Heflin and his family as they walked by. Heflin saluted back and waved before getting into a car.

Along with a video on Facebook of Heflin’s departure, State Police offered a statement on his behalf:

“After a week of strength, determination, and support from friends, family, and the community, today marks a huge step forward. Sgt. Heflin is grateful for the exceptional care he received and for everyone who has kept him in their thoughts.

While the road to full recovery continues, being home is a milestone he’s been looking forward to and one he doesn’t take for granted.”

On the morning of July 10, Heflin exchanged gunfire with a suspect, Kevin Myers (54) of La Porte, following a car chase. Myers later shot and killed himself. Heflin underwent successful surgery for multiple gunshot wounds and is now back home completing his recovery.

(La Porte County, IN) - West Nile Virus has turned up in La Porte County.

The County Health Department made the announcement on Thursday that a pool of mosquitos sampled on June 30 tested positive for West Nile, as confirmed by the Indiana State Department of Health.

Health officials say the species most likely to transmit the virus prefers to breed in containers. So watch for bird baths, clogged gutters, empty flower pots, and any other places of standing water. Also these infected mosquitoes prefer to bite around dusk and dawn. So be extra vigilant with bug repellant at these times of day.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 20% of people infected with West Nile Virus develop flu-like symptoms, which usually start within a week of being bitten by an infected mosquito. Less than 1% of infections result in severe illness that affects the central nervous system, requires hospitalization, or results in death. People most at risk of severe illness are the elderly and those with serious chronic medical conditions.

For additional information, contact Kristine Happel Collin with the La Porte County Health Department at 219-326-6808 ext. 2200 or 219-874-5611.

(St. Joseph County, IN) - A motorcyclist was in critical condition after crashing into a roundabout following a Thursday afternoon pursuit in St. Joseph County.

Police said the motorcycle was traveling at excessive speeds and disregarding traffic signals in the area of Cleveland Road and Hickory Road when an officer attempted to stop his vehicle.  The motorcyclist failed to stop, though, and fled but the pursuit at some point was terminated.

Police said the motorcycle continued on at high speeds on Brick Road before hitting a curb and losing control in the roundabout.

The name of the driver, so far, has not been revealed.

(La Porte County, IN) - Country music star Dylan Scott helped raise money for a La Porte County Police officer recovering from being shot multiple times in May.

Scott, who performed Thursday night during the La Porte County Fair, autographed two guitars that sold for over $15,000 during an auction.

Normally, the fair board uses the proceeds from auctioning off guitars autographed by the headline performer at the fair each year for scholarships. 

This year, the board decided to give the proceeds this year to Samuelson and his wife, Quinn, to help them financially during what’s anticipated to be a long recovery.

Mike Kellems of La Porte was taking pictures for the fair board when he received a chance to interact with Scott before he took the stage in front of more than 3,000 people.  He said Scott also talked to a number of police officers, who mentioned Samuelson during their conversations.

“He could not have been more personable.  Could not have been more caring and concerned not only about Deputy Samuelson but about police officers in general.  Just a genuine person,” he said.

Scott also made a recording with the police officers shouting “Sammy Strong” for the 33-year old Samuelson, whose alleged gunman is facing charges such as attempted murder.

(La Porte, IN) - A lengthy prison sentence has been given for the death of a La Porte woman from a drug overdose.

Michael Hart received a 32 year prison sentence yesterday in La Porte Circuit Court for Level 1 felony dealing in a controlled substance causing death.

Authorities say the 27 year old Michigan City man sold Bailee Hoops the drugs that claimed her life nearly two years ago.  The 30 year old Hoops was found dead at a home on Kingsporte Lane from overdosing on fentanyl and methamphetamine.

Hart told investigators he purchased the drugs in Chicago and he had known Hoops for a long time.

(New Buffalo Township, MI) - Police say distracted driving is to blame for another motorcyclist in the area killed from being struck from behind by a passenger vehicle.

This one happened Thursday about 11:30 a.m. (Central Time) on U.S. 12 just west of New Buffalo.

According to Berrien County Police, the motorcyclist slowed down to turn left onto Lubke Road when hit from behind by a distracted driver.  The 45 year old man from Niles later died at the hospital from a head injury.  So far, his name has not been disclosed.

Police said the other driver, a 39 year old woman from Missouri, suffered minor injuries.

How she was distracted was not revealed but police say she failed to notice the motorcycle stopping in front of her despite the motorcycle having its left turn signal activated.

Last weekend, a driver hit two motorcycles from behind in Wanatah, killing the driver of one of those motorcycles.

(La Porte County, IN) - One man doesn’t seem to mind the 90 degree temperatures, so much, despite manning a barbecue grill during this week’s La Porte County Fair.

The 600 degree heat from the grill has raised the outdoor temperature to as much as 119 degrees where Mark Baker stands to cook ribeye steak sandwiches, hamburgers and all-beef hot dogs as a vendor at the fair.

“There is no staying cool.  We do it because we love it,” he said.

Baker said the tubs of cool water along with fans at his food stand help but he steps away at times for another cook to take over so he can find some shade or an air conditioner before resuming his duties.

“Everybody needs to hydrate and be safe out here.  They really do,” he said.

(La Porte County, IN) - A smoky haze has moved into the area from the wildfires in Canada.

The smoke is evident in places like Stone Lake Beach in La Porte where conditions seemed mostly cloudy on what should have been a sunny day.

“There’s just a haze across everything,” said Mark Parkman, a farmer from the Westville area.

Parkman said there’s also a noticeable smell of smoke.

“It smells like you’re burning brush or you got a fire going,” he said.

According to weather forecasters, the haze from the wildfires moved into the Midwest and Northeast with help from a cold front.

(La Porte County, IN) - A Rolling Prairie area boy has a calf positioned to do well in the judging at next year’s La Porte County Fair.

Reed Howard’s Black Angus Holstein heifer, “Raven,” won first place in the prospects show for young cows in her category.

“Pretty good,” is how the New Prairie Middle School student responded when asked how the top billing performance in the show ring felt.

The 170 pound cow born in December of 2024 will move up to the adult category during the showing in next year’s fair when she is expected to start giving milk.

Howard, who soon turns 12, said he helps take care of his family’s 20 or so other cows at home by doing things like feeding them a mixture of hay and grain that includes corn.  He also washes the animals.

(Indianapolis, IN) - An air quality action day has been issued for the area today.

According to the Indiana Department of Environmental Management, a primary factor is some of the smoke from wildfires in Canada moving into this part of the state.

Fine particulate matter in the smoky air along with ozone levels from 90 degree temperatures are expected to be in the unhealthy range.

The advisory includes La Porte, Michigan City and other parts of northern Indiana.

(La Porte County, IN) - Some modern-day pioneers had to do without electricity for a while yesterday at the La Porte County Fair.

A power outage in 90 degree heat impacted Pioneer Land along with several food and beverage vendors.

Pioneer Land Manager Darla Quinn said there are fans running in the 1800’s- like village during the fair to help volunteers working the buildings stay cool.  The fans along with an air conditioner in the Quilt Cabin quit running until power was restored about two hours later.

“It got hot fast,” she said.

It appears a problem with a transformer caused the temporary outage.

(La Porte County, IN) - A South Central High School student has a female pig named a grand champion in the show ring today during the La Porte County Fair.

“It was an honor to win this,” said Madison Scarborough, 17.

Her 225 pound pig, “Ivey,” was declared the Grand Champion gilt after Scarborough showed the animal before judges in the show arena.

“I think she looked really good out there,” she said.

Scarborough, who has shown grand champion pigs during past fairs, said she was surprised at her finish this morning but it was something she worked toward in previous shows this year with the pig.  Her family raises crops in Dewey Township and keeps just enough pigs to show during the fair.

The Reserve Grand Champion gilt was awarded to Morgan Paschen, who’s also a 17-year old student at South Central School.  Paschen said she was surprised because “Loretta” did not perform as well during other shows this year.

“It was really nice to come here and do well,” she said.

(La Porte, IN) - A La Porte man convicted of causing a fatal alcohol related motor vehicle collision several years ago is charged with being impaired in a recent crash.

Eric Adair, 29, is charged in La Porte Circuit Court with Level 5 felony operating while intoxicated.

Police said Adair on Sunday hit a parked car in the 300 block of Rockwood St.  The impact caused his Dodge Durango to roll onto its roof.  Police said a responding officer spotted Adair walking away from the crash site while carrying multiple items in his hands.

He was taken to the La Porte County Jail with an alleged blood alcohol level of .22-percent.

According to court records, Adair was given a six-year prison sentence in 2022 for Level 4 felony operating while intoxicated causing death.

Police said Adair crossed the center line on U.S. 35 north of La Porte and struck a vehicle driven by Nathan Blunt head-on.  The 32 year old Blunt later succumbed to his injuries.

Adair could face anywhere from a one to six year sentence.

(Michigan City, IN) - A Michigan City man could face a lengthy prison term on charges of dealing cocaine.

Quevin Garrett, 29, is charged in La Porte Superior Court 1 with Level 2 felony dealing cocaine.

According to court documents, Garrett in May was involved in the sale of crack cocaine for $1,100 in the 200 block of S. Court.  Police said Garrett retrieved the crack cocaine from that location and gave it to the buyer.

Garrett arrested last week on a warrant was still being held in the La Porte County Jail on $50,000 bond.

He could face anywhere from a 10 to 30 year sentence.  

(Westville, IN) - A traffic stop for erratic driving in Westville Tuesday resulted in the arrest of the driver on drug related charges.

Kaitlin Mannia, 36, of La Porte was booked into the La Porte County Jail on charges of Level 4 felony possession of methamphetamine along with Class B misdemeanor counts of possession of marijuana and possession of paraphernalia.

La Porte County Police said Mannia about 4 p.m. swerved into the opposite lane in the area of Flynn Road and Jefferson St. and stayed there for several seconds before returning to the proper lane.

She then nearly caused a collision from braking hard and was weaving while traveling slowly before stopping for the officer, police said.

Police said Mannia had 10 grams of methamphetamine along with glass smoking pipes containing burnt residue and a small amount of marijuana.

(Michigan City, IN) - A petition drive is underway to try and cancel the memory of a former public official in Michigan City serving a 100 year prison sentence for child molesting.

Michigan City resident Carlie Dunn is collecting the signatures to bolster her chances when she takes her request before the Michigan City Park Department and the Michigan City Port Authority in the coming weeks.

Specifically, Dunn is requesting the name of John Rudisell be removed from plaques including those marking the construction of the bathhouse at Washington Park Beach and nearby Millennium Plaza along Trail Creek.

Rudisell was the city’s Port Authority Harbormaster when charged and later given two 50-year prison sentences in 2001 to be served consecutively on two Class A felony counts of child molesting.

According to authorities, it’s believed Rudisell actually had close to 20 male victims during at least a 13-year period, including some boys molested dozens of times.

“I think this is something the community can get behind,” she said.

Authorities said the now 64-year old Rudisell lured the boys by asking their parents if they could perform yard work on his Michigan City area farm where he kept exotic animals like Bengal Tigers.  The parents trusted Rudisell because of his position as harbormaster and reputation as a stellar member of the community.

Rudisell was also an adult volunteer with the LaPorte County 4-H program.

Dunn, 33, said she never heard of Rudisell or the plaques until recently.  She quickly decided it’s not right for him to continue being honored and his name remaining an open source of shame for the community.

Dunn said her concern is mostly about the impact on his victims if they happen to see his name on the plaques during any trips they might take to the lakefront.

“I wouldn’t want that person to be reminded of the horrific abuse they’ve had to endure,” she said.

In 2004, Ron Meer said he was on the city council when approached by relatives of some victims asking for the removal of Rudisell’s name.

Meer said he later presented a resolution calling for the removal and it was unanimously passed by the city council but the name, for whatever reason, was never eliminated from the markers.  At the time, Meer said he received extreme “pushback” from board members with the Port Authority and Park Department, who felt removing Rudisell’s name would be “altering history.”

Meer said the issue seemed to have been mostly forgotten by the time he became mayor about eight-years later and was never revisited during his two four-year terms.  He expressed support for Dunn’s efforts.

“This guy does not in any way, shape or form deserve to be on any monument with recognition,” he said.

According to authorities, Rudisell paid the boys as much as $150 to engage in sex acts that sometimes involved more than one boy at a time.  He also seduced them with alcohol, marijuana and pornographic movies, authorities said.

Dunn also said her request is a chance for the city to save face years later and make things right with the victims.

“What does that say about us as a community that we’re still memorializing this individual?  I think we should be on the side of the victim and think about what that does to them.  How does that make them feel,” she said.

Dunn said her plan is to go before the Port Authority Board with her request on August 3 and Park Board on August 5.

Currently, Rudisell is downstate in the Pendleton Correctional Facility, according to the Indiana Department of Correction.  His earliest release date is listed as February 21, 2050.

(La Porte County, IN) - One of four people injured when their motorcycles were struck a car in La Porte County has died.

Ryan Harrison, 42, was operating a 2021 Harley Davidson motorcycle struck from behind Saturday, June 11 by a 2005 Mazda passenger vehicle on U.S. 421 in Wanatah, according to La Porte County Police.

Police said the car also hit a 2006 Harley Davidson motorcycle traveling in front of Harrison.  Harrison and his passenger, Amber Harrison, 41, were airlifted to Memorial Hospital in South Bend.

Mr. Harrison succumbed to his injuries the next day, police said.

The driver of the other motorcycle, Levi Bridges, 42, and his passenger Amber Bridges, 41, were taken by ambulance with undisclosed injuries.  All of the motorcyclists were from the Lafayette area.

The driver of the car, Daniel Quiroz, 19, of Portage was not injured.

Investigators were waiting for the results of blood tests to determine if alcohol or drugs were factors in the collisions.

(La Porte County, IN) - An annual fund raiser for scholarships during the La Porte County Fair will go toward a La Porte County Sheriff’s Deputy recovering from gunshot wounds.

Traditionally, the guitar used by the headline performer during the fair is auctioned off with the proceeds going to scholarships.

Fair Manager Don Stoner said three $1,500 scholarships were awarded last year from the proceeds.

This year, Stoner said the guitar used by country music star Dylan Scott, who performs in the grandstands Thursday night, will go out for bids with the proceeds going to help officer Jon Samuelson and his family.

Currently, Samuelson, 33, is in a rehabilitation facility after shot in May by a gunman at Franciscan Health outside Michigan City.

The suspect, Sharrod Grafton, Jr., 22, of Chicago is charged with attempted murder.

Police said Samuelson stopped to assist Grafton, who he thought was a disabled motorist, and took him to the hospital as requested.  Samuelson left but soon returned after informed Grafton was a suspect in the theft of his mother’s car at gunpoint.

The officer was shot three times during a scuffle with the suspect in the emergency room area of the hospital.

(La Porte County, IN) - It appears a man who shot a police officer multiple times was hit by one of the rounds returned by the officer before taking his own life with a gunshot.

La Porte County Coroner Lynn Swanson said an autopsy shows Kevin Meyers, 54, suffered a gunshot wound to the back apparently fired by the officer during a gunfire exchange.  She said the bullet from the officer apparently went through the back of the cab of the stolen pick-up truck Meyers was driving and the seat he was in before entering his back.
             

Swanson said he then fled to the area of Joliet Road and Wozniak Road where the wounded Meyers stepped out of the truck and entered a corn field.   That's where he was later found deceased from a single shot to the chest fired from his AK-15 assault rifle.

She said the bullet in the back lodged in some fatty tissue was not a factor in his death.

Berrien County Sheriff Chuck Heit said the Friday morning chase began near Four Winds Casino outside New Buffalo when a police officer tried stopping him for driving a suspected stolen vehicle.

He said the pursuit ventured the short distance into Indiana on some side roads before returning to Michigan where the suspect fled westbound on Interstate 94.  At one point, Heit said the fleeing driver stuck the barrel of what was described as a rifle out the driver’s side window and fired at least one shot.

Heit said officers from Michigan stayed with the pursuit across the state line until law enforcement from multiple departments in Indiana were positioned to take over the chase.

“Once it went into Indiana further and they had enough units, we backed off and continued to monitor it but it never came back close to Michigan,” he said.

Several minutes later, the pursuit went southbound on U.S. 421 near Michigan City where a collision between the suspect and state trooper soon happened outside a Speedway station.

ISP Sgt. Glen Fifield said numerous shots rang out, including some by the officer returning fire.

The officer, Sgt. Justin Heflin, 40, was airlifted to Memorial Hospital in South Bend where he was listed in stable condition prior to surgery.

After the gunfire exchange, Fifield said more than 100 officers were involved in a manhunt for the suspect whose pick-up truck was located with help from a police helicopter.

Swanson said Meyers was driving a pick-up truck stolen the previous day from a Michigan City car dealership.   She said he removed a license plate from another vehicle at the casino and placed it on the stolen pick-up truck just before the pursuit.

According to court records, Meyers was serving a three year sentence on work release in La Porte County for auto theft.  A warrant was recently issued for his arrest for failing to return to the work release facility at night as required.

(La Porte County, IN) - The La Porte County Clerk’s Office is closed today.

It was for the funeral services of a deputy clerk who died in a house fire near Hanna early on the Fourth of July.

Kathryn Zabel was 23.

A gathering was held yesterday at South Central High School where Zabel graduated.  La Porte County Commissioner Joe Haney was there because Zabel was a friend of his daughter and family.

“It was very heartwarming to see the community turn out to support and visit the Zabel family.  Our hearts go out to them and they continue to be in our prayers,” he said.

Funeral services were held late this morning at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center in La Porte.

Authorities said Zabel was found deceased in an upstairs bedroom.

So far, the cause of the fire remains under investigation but a lightning strike was one of the possibilities being looked into due to storms leading up to the blaze.

(La Porte County, IN) - A Chicago area man was allegedly impaired while leading police on a high-speed chase that ended with his arrest in Michigan City.

Jakobi Kinsey, 27, is charged with operating while intoxicated and resisting law enforcement.

According to La Porte County Police, a four vehicle crash with a serious injury happened about 4:30 a.m. Saturday on Interstate 94. 

Police said the entire interstate at the 33 mile marker was closed but Kinsey drove around all of the police vehicles with their flashing lights activated at the scene of the crash.  A sheriff’s deputy pursued the vehicle at more than 100 miles per hour.

Police said Kinsey veered northbound on U.S. 421 and soon turned into the parking lot of McDonalds where he began walking away from the vehicle when he complied with commands to lay down on the ground.

An odor of alcohol was detected on his breath.  Kinsey was arrested when he refused to submit to a certified blood alcohol test, police said.

(La Porte, IN) - A 19 year old driver is accused of being intoxicated when his car wound up stuck on some railroad tracks in La Porte early Sunday.

Yavarion Rice of North Liberty is charged with operating while intoxicated and minor consumption of alcohol.

According to La Porte County Police, the car driven by Rice somehow wound up between two sets of tracks about 3 a.m. at the crossing near Boston and Factory streets. 

Rice told investigators he was driving when he lost sight of the roadway, police said. His alleged blood alcohol level was .165-percent or slightly more two times the legal limit.

(New Carlisle, IN) - A fire at a scrap metal facility east of New Carlisle kept multiple fire departments busy for many hours earlier this week. The fire department there has released more details.

On Tuesday around 2:30 Central time, fire broke out at OmniSource on Smilax Rd. Over the course of the afternoon, nearly two dozen emergency units from 10 fire departments responded. They were on scene for over eight hours.

According to the New Carlisle Fire Department, first responders immediately observed a large column of smoke and requested additional resources, including tanker support for a water shuttle operation. Water was hauled in so as to avoid overwhelming the town's water system. Crews also used Hamilton Grove’s private water system for the filling of tankers.

The metals shredding and recycling operation on Smilax Rd. south of U.S. 20 was the scene of multiple large fire in past years. Authorities say a new owner, OmniSource, instituted additional safety procedures to reduce the frequency and severity of these incidents since taking over the facility in 2020. The last incident of this magnitude there occurred in 2021.

Below is a list of agencies responding to Tuesday's blaze:

Indiana agencies assisting included:

• Saint Joseph County 9-1-1
• Saint Joseph County Fire Territory
• Clay Fire Territory
• Centre Township Fire Department
• Liberty Township Fire Department
• Kankakee Township Fire Department
• Lincoln Township Fire Department

Michigan agencies assisting included:

• Galien Township Fire Department
• Bertrand Township Fire Department
• Weesaw Township Fire Department

According to NCFD authorities, the coordinated efforts of all responding agencies helped bring this incident to a safe conclusion and prevent injuries during a prolonged and resource-intensive operation.

(Indianapolis, IN) - The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles has addressed a misconception about the state’s popular Blackout license plate.

Rumor has it that the special black-and-white plates are easier for automated license plate readers, or Flock cameras, to scan than any other Indiana plate.

Officials with the BMV and Indiana State Police say this is not so.

Over 240,000 Hoosier vehicles have switched to Blackout plates, since the option became available about a year ago.

Public sentiment has soured on the use of AI-powered video surveillance. Some people say the cameras pick up and store a little too much information about their everyday comings and goings.

The Michigan City Police Department hosted an informational meeting on the topic over a week ago. In the past week, Flock cameras have been used to solve serious crimes in this area: a fatal Starke County hit and run and a child abduction near Plymouth.

(Marshall County, IN) - Police rescued a child abducted from a Marshall County home earlier this week.

On Tuesday around 11:40 a.m. EDT, a baby was reported missing from a residence just east of Plymouth. Police said the 3-month-old baby boy was taken while the parents were home, but offered no other details.

Twelve agencies, from local child services and polices to federal authorities, worked to track down the suspect’s car, a blue 2017 Cadillac.

By just after 2:00 p.m. the suspect, a 45-year-old Gary woman named Bobbie Jo Novak of Gary, and the baby were located in a Merrillville grocery store parking lot. Novak was taken into custody without incident, police said. The baby was unharmed.

“We got a win. We don’t always get a win, but we got one yesterday,” said Indiana State Police Lt. Tony Slocum. “This was the result of swift, professional, cooperative police work.” Slocum also noted the integral role that Flock cameras played in locating the kidnapper’s vehicle.

On Friday Novak was formally charged in Marshall County Superior Court 3 with two Level 5 Felony Kidnapping charges.

(La Porte County, IN) - New details have been revealed regarding the police shooting that took place in La Porte County Friday morning.

A state police trooper, now identified as 40-year-old Sgt. Justin Heflin, was shot multiple times in the parking lot of the Speedway gas station on U.S. 421 south of I-94 in Michigan City around 7 a.m. Friday.

The shootout was the culmination of a police chase from Berrien County, Michigan of a reportedly stolen vehicle. Reports indicate the suspect, now identified as 54-year-old Kevin Meyers of La Porte, was driving a 2019 Ford F-150 pickup and allegedly pointed and fired a rifle at officers in pursuit.

More gunfire broke out at the Speedway when the truck was brought to a stop. According to ISP, Meyers opened fire from inside his truck, striking Sgt. Heflin  and his squad car multiple times. A fellow trooper drove Heflin to nearby Franciscan Hospital, from which he was transferred to South Bend Memorial.

Meanwhile, Myers took off in his truck. With more than 100 officers and a Lake County Sheriff’s helicopter involved in a manhunt, Myers’ pickup was located along a tree line near Westville in the area of Joliet Road and Wozniak Road.  According to ISP, more shots rang out during the search before the suspect was found deceased by a tactical unit a few hours later in a cornfield in that same area.

Police said Myers suffered gunshot wounds. They don’t know right now if they were self-inflicted or from shots fired by officers. An autopsy is scheduled for Saturday morning.

Heflin, a Michigan City High School graduate, was an active-duty Marine for eight years prior to becoming a state trooper 12 years ago. Police said he underwent successful surgery and is in stable condition surrounded by family.

(La Porte, IN) - Plans to develop a La Porte golf course into new housing has stalled.

La Porte Mayor Tom Dermody said it became clear about two weeks ago the housing developer, Lennar, and the Briar Leaf Golf Course property owners were not going to reach an agreement without some level of investment and participation from the city.

He said this came several months after representatives from the city worked diligently to help bring the project along.

“After much deliberation, I have made the decision to walk away from this project. If Lennar and Briar Leaf are able to reach an agreement on their own, we would be more than happy to resume our work to assist in the project,” he said.  

"Though housing is a top priority for this administration – like it is for many administrations across the region and state – we have a responsibility to the tax paying citizens of La Porte to be good stewards with their money. We will continue our efforts to improve the availability of housing in our community without doing so at the expense of our residents," he said.

The golf course has been closed, so far, this season because of the plans to convert the 18 hole course into new housing.

(La Porte County, IN) - An Indiana State Police trooper was shot multiple times Friday near Michigan City by a man later found dead from gunshots during a manhunt.

The shooting happened about 7 a.m. outside a Speedway station on U.S. 421 just south of Interstate 94.

ISP Sgt. Glen Fifield said the suspect was chased on Interstate 94 from somewhere in Berrien County, Michigan after he failed to pull over for driving a pick-up truck reported stolen.  The trooper joined the chase after it crossed into Indiana.

Several minutes later, Fifield said the chase veered onto U.S. 421 where soon there was a collision between the trooper and suspect.  Fifield said numerous shots rang out, including some by the officer returning fire.

The officer was rushed to nearby Franciscan Health hospital and later airlifted to Memorial Hospital in South Bend where he was listed in stable condition prior to surgery.

“I can report he is in good spirits at the moment,” he said.

Fifield said whether the suspect and officer were out of their vehicles during the gunfire exchange was still under investigation.

More than 20 yellow evidence markers were placed mostly in the Speedway parking lot close to the highway.  Police said many of those markers represented the spot where empty shell casings were found.

Following the gunfire exchange, Fifield said more than 100 officers were involved in a manhunt for the suspect whose pick-up truck was located along a tree line with help from a police helicopter near Westville in the area of Joliet Road and Wozniak Road.  Fifield said more shots rang out during the search before the suspect was found deceased a few hours later in a cornfield in that same area.

The manhunt included the use of drones with cameras along with K-9 dogs.

“All of the resources were being used during the search for him,” he said.

Fifield said who fired the shots suffered by the suspect will be left up to the La Porte County Coroner’s Office to decide after reviewing evidence from the autopsy and police investigation.

The suspected stolen vehicle was discovered by a police officer in the New Buffalo area who tried stopping the driver, who fled a short distance into Indiana on some side roads before winding up on Interstate 94, said Berrien County Sheriff Chuck Heit.

Heit said the suspect early in the pursuit fired a shot from what was described as a rifle he stuck out the window of the vehicle before leaving Michigan.  He said officers from Michigan discontinued the pursuit once law enforcement from multiple agencies in Indiana took over.

“We were involved for a short period at the beginning then stayed available just in case it came back,” he said. 

Fifield said the name of the wounded officer will be released at some point but wasn’t right away out of respect for him and his family.  The name of the suspect and where he is from was also not immediately disclosed.

(La Porte County, IN)  A state police trooper was shot this morning in La Porte County.

It happened about 7 a.m. at the Speedway station just south of Interstate 94 outside Michigan City.  Police say the trooper was rushed to a local hospital.

The condition of the officer was not released.

So far, authorities have not revealed any further details.

However, judging by police radio traffic, it appears there is an active search for the suspect with drones and a police helicopter involved.  The vehicle driven by the suspect seems to have been found in the area of Wozniak Road and Joliet

Road.

There are published reports that a witness heard seven shots.  We’ll provide more details as they’re made available.

(New Buffalo, MI) - Lights are now up at a baseball field where high-ranking college players hoping to make the major leagues will play in New Buffalo beginning next summer.

There are still a lot of things to do before the first pitch such as choosing the nickname of the team, which hasn’t been easy to avoid potential federal copyright infringements, said Brian Williams, a primary owner of the team and scout for the Texas Rangers.

Many people locally want the nickname to be Bison.

Bison was the beloved nickname of the middle school and high school athletic teams until the New Buffalo and River Valley school districts merged their sports programs in recent years and chose Red Arrow Raiders as the full name of their squads.

The first name of the college summer league team with nearly 40 home games planned from late May to mid-August is Dune Coast.

The nickname is down to four finalists, not including Bison, though.

Williams said there could be a potential copyright violation if the nickname was the same as other sports teams like the AAA minor league baseball team, Buffalo Bison.

In addition, Williams said the goal from the beginning has been to trademark the nickname and logo for using them exclusively on team jerseys and other merchandise planned to be offered commercially.

Another objective has been to have a nickname that reflects Lake Michigan and the surrounding area for marketing the team to a more regional audience in southwest Michigan and northwest Indiana since New Buffalo is close to the state line.

“We wanted something that depicted the beach and the recreation all of us enjoy but you also have to find something that’s not used currently,” he said.

He said more than 150 nicknames were suggested from La Porte to Valparaiso and St. Joseph during a recent online contest, but many of those were ruled out due to a concern about potential lawsuits.  

One of the nicknames still in the running is Breakers, featuring a character resembling a Bison on a surfboard.  Breakers are waves toppling over after reaching a certain height similar to whitecaps.  Whitecaps was ruled out since that is the nickname of a minor league baseball team in Grand Rapids and so was Waverunners, which is copyrighted by Yamaha for their personal watercrafts.

The remaining nicknames still under consideration are Lightning, Phantoms and Quillbacks.

Williams said Phantoms represents the shipwrecks on Lake Michigan, including one from the 1800’s near the Galien River.  Quillbacks are like porcupines Native Americans in the area once used for their pointed quills they placed in headdresses and other merchandise.

Williams said he hopes the nickname is chosen by no later than early August.

“We’re going to pick one we feel is best suited for going forward,” he said.

The games will be played at the new high school baseball park featuring the latest in artificial turf in the infield and the type of natural grass in the outfield used in several major league stadiums.

There’s also a built-in sprinkler system used every morning to provide water to the still young grass, which held up very well during the recent high school baseball season.

Electrical wiring must still be run to the lights put up in late June.  Once that is done,  Williams said the lighting will be top quality and stay on the field without drifting over to nearby residences.  He said extra money was spent on the lights “to make sure we’re being good neighbors to the people that live around there.”

One of the next steps likely in the fall will be constructing grandstand seating with fold-back chairs for 500 or more people with have stadium access to food and beverages, including alcohol, for those 21 and over.

Williams said fund raising is also occurring in hopes of obtaining a matching $75,000 grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation to help cover the costs of the seating.

The team will be in the Northwoods League, which has had over 400 players make it to the major leagues since established in the early 1990’s.  The league has teams from Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin and other states from as far away as North Dakota.

The lights and the golf course looking playing surface seem to have already provided a Field of Dreams look to what’s being converted into a small minor league stadium.

“It looks great.  We’re really excited about where it is,” Williams said.

(Chicago, IL) - A rare earthquake in Lake Michigan was recorded yesterday afternoon.

The earthquake happened about 13 miles northeast of Evanston, Illinois.   It measured just 2.9 on the Richter scale but many Chicago residents reported feeling the quake.

Fortunately, there were no reports of injury or major damage.

(Michigan City, IN) - A Michigan City woman is out to cancel the memory of a former official serving practically a life sentence for child molesting.

John Rudisell, who was the Michigan City harbormaster, has been in prison for 25 years.  Authorities said the molestations occurred after he lured numerous boys to his home over an extended period of time.

Rudisell was also heavily involved as a volunteer with the La Porte County 4-H program.

His name remains on a few plaques like the one at the public bath house at Washington Park beach marking the role of Rudisell and others in its construction in 1995. 

Resident Carlie Dunn, 33, said she just learned last week about the plaques and what Rudisell was convicted of doing.  Dunn said she will ask the Michigan City Park Department and the Port Authority to remove his name.

“I think this is something the community can get behind,” she said.

Dunn said she’s mostly concerned about the impact on Rudisell’s many victims if they still live around here and see his name if they go to the beach along with the negative message about continuing to honor such a man if it were to continue.

“I wouldn’t want that person to be reminded of the horrific abuse they’ve had to endure,” she said.

Rudisell, now 64, is serving his time at the state-run correctional facility in Pendleton.  His earliest release date is in February of 2050, according to the Indiana Department of Correction.

(La Porte, IN) - Drug charges have been filed in connection with a vehicle stopped by La Porte Police for having a shattered windshield.

Taylor Brown, 29, is charged in La Porte Circuit with Level 6 felony possession of methamphetamine and Class B misdemeanor possession of marijuana.

According to the charging information, a police officer on July 2 stopped the vehicle for having a shattered windshield obstructing the driver’s view in the area of Erie and Park streets.

A K-9 dog conducting an air sniff outside the vehicle detected the presence of drugs, which led to a search of the vehicle and discovery of a plastic bag containing suspected methamphetamine next to where Brown was in the front passenger seat.

Police said a plastic bag of marijuana along with a marijuana product were recovered from her purse.

(Lake County, IN) - A teenager was allegedly drunk while leading police on a high speed chase exceeding 130 miles per hour this morning in Northwest Indiana.

Osvaldo Saavedra Facundo, 18, of Rensselaer was being held on preliminary charges of operating while intoxicated, reckless driving, resisting law enforcement and minor consumption of alcohol.

Police said a trooper suspecting he was intoxicated tried pulling him over but Facundo fled, shutting his headlights off and on, periodically, to try and avoid capture.  There were other unsafe maneuvers, including passing on the right shoulder, that nearly caused collisions with a trooper and at least one other motorist.

The pursuit was in Jasper County when a trooper executed a technique that caused the fleeing vehicle to spin and roll over in the median.  The suspect’s alleged blood alcohol level was not revealed.

Police said Facundo did not have a driver’s license, only a learner’s permit.

(Michigan City, IN) - The efforts of a pro football player to help people in his hometown of Michigan City are not going unrecognized.

Braden Fiske recently held his second annual Family Fun Day at Ames Field.   The activities included bounce houses, a dunk tank, food trucks and live music along with raffles to raise money for the school sports programs.

During last night’s city council meeting, Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch responded to his work in the community, including a recent fund raiser for the local branch of the Boys & Girls Clubs.

“I think that’s a testament to the kids and the young people we build in the community,” she said.

Fiske, a former football star at Michigan City High School, is a starting defensive lineman for the Los Angeles Rams.

(La Porte, IN) - Three nurses buried in La Porte after serving in the Civil War will be recognized in the coming weeks.

A ceremony of remembrance and dedication is scheduled at 11 a.m. on July 25 at Pine Lake Cemetery.  The nurses to be honored are Mary Jane Andrew, Mary L. Robinson and Viola H. Andrew Cochran, according to the La Porte County Historical Society.

The event will be hosted by the John Auten Camp #8 Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War.

(Chesterton, IN) - The South Shore commuter line has announced an official partnership with the Pullman National Historic Park and the Friends of Pullman National Historic Park to participate in this year’s highly anticipated Pullman Railroad Days event, taking place on July 25th and 26th.

This year’s celebration holds special historical significance, focusing on the 100th anniversary of the electrification of the Illinois Central Railroad (now known as the Metra Electric District).

Prior to the electrification of the Illinois Central, South Shore Line passengers were required to transfer trains at 111th Street to reach downtown Chicago. Following the historic electrification project, the South Shore Line ordered new Interurban cars from the Pullman company and was able to offer direct service into downtown, marking a vital milestone in the railroad’s operational history and regional economic growth. At the time, the railroad also converted its electrical distribution system from 6,600 AC to 1,500 DC to be compatible with the Illinois Central’s system. 

To celebrate this milestone, The South Shore Line has partnered with Metra, Hesston Steam Museum, and Cedar Lake Historical Associated to display a newly-refurbished passenger car fitted with interactive historical exhibits for the event.

"We are thrilled to partner with these organizations to celebrate a century of electrification," said Nicole Barker, Chief Experience and Engagement Officer at the South Shore line.

"This event is a fantastic opportunity for families, rail enthusiasts, and history buffs to step inside a piece of living history and see firsthand how our rail system shaped the communities we serve today," she said.  

The Pullman Railroad Days event is open to the public. While there is no charge to tour the South Shore Line passenger car, attendees are encouraged to explore the full array of activities offered throughout the historic Pullman neighborhood.

For more information regarding the Pullman Railroad Days event, scheduling, and ticketing for other festival activities, please visit friendsofpullman.com/special-events/. 

(La Porte County, IN) - A La Porte County woman was scammed by a phone caller pretending to be with the sheriff’s office.

According to police, the call was about her having warrants for her arrest for not appearing for jury duty but she would not be arrested if she sent a $3,000 payment.

Police said she wound up sending $1,000 in two separate payments using Apple Pay and a gift card.  She then called to confirm the payment was received but received no answer.

Police said people receiving such calls should not send money because the sheriff’s office does not operate in such a fashion.

(La Porte County, IN) - A man is recovering from serious injuries from crashing on his dirt bike in the Michigan City area.

Imre Falatovics, 36, was airlifted on July 3 to Memorial Hospital in South Bend with two broken legs and other possible injuries, according to La Porte County Police.

Police said it appears Falatovics was traveling on 400 West in Springfield Township when he failed to negotiate a curve and wound up in a ditch containing heavy vegetation.  Emergency responders located him on his back in the ditch near his 2001 Suzuki dirt bike.

He complained of pain in both of his swollen legs along with pain to the head and neck. 

According to police, the case has been presented to prosecutors for possible filing of charges of operating a motor vehicle as a habitual traffic violator, a Level 6 felony.

(La Porte County, IN) - A lightning strike is among the possible causes of a house fire that claimed the life of a La Porte County government worker early on the Fourth of July.

Kathryn Zabel, 23, was found deceased in her upstairs bedroom in the 2700 block of W. 1650 South near Hanna.

She was employed by the La Porte County Clerk’s office as a clerical worker the past five years in La Porte Superior Court 3.  La Porte County Clerk Heather Stevens described her as more of a “beautiful friend” than a co-worker to many people in her office.

“To say that everyone is heartbroken would be an understatement,” she said.

Hanna Township Fire Chief Tony Wallace said the only other person in the over century old two story farmhouse at the time was her father, Bill Zabel, who managed to escape the burning structure.  The man was looked over by paramedics at the scene but did not require further medical attention.

According to La Porte County Police, a responding officer just after midnight was not able to safely enter the structure due to heavy smoke.

Wallace said the east end of the house was fully engulfed in flames when firefighters from multiple departments began arriving.

He said the victim was located after the blaze was extinguished.

Wallace said the Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office is leading the investigation into the cause of the fire with help from the La Porte County Sheriff’s Office.  Those agencies were brought in as standard procedure whenever a death is involved in a fire.

Wallace said investigators are focused on ruling out potential causes so whatever possibilities remain such as a lightning strike can be further explored since there were storms containing lightning passing through the area before the fire.

He said the National Weather Service was contacted to determine if there were any lightning strikes in the area while investigators look for any physical evidence of a lightning strike on the property.

“They’re just looking to eliminate all possible ways the fire could have started,” he said.

Wallace said the house was renovated at some point with new electrical wiring installed.

La Porte County Commissioner Joe Haney said he knew the victim and her family very well since Zabel was a friend of his 19-year old daughter.

“She had a huge heart.  She was so sweet and caring.  She was just an amazing, wonderful young lady,” he said.

Parts of the house were still standing until a rekindling of the flames about 24 hours later destroyed what was left of the structure.

“The Zabel’s have nothing left except for the clothing they were wearing and their cars.  That’s it,” Haney said.

The victim’s mother, Christen, is co-director of the La Porte County Voters Registration Office.

Stevens said anyone interested in donating to help the family financially can do so at Venmo@Christen-Zabel.  Monetary donations are also being accepted at the voters registration office at 555 Michigan Ave. just a short walk from the downtown La Porte courthouse.

“Katie will be forever missed but she will forever be loved,” Stevens said.

(La Porte, IN) - A woman with a Powerball ticket purchased in La Porte has claimed her millions of dollars in winnings.

The winner, who chose to remain anonymous, claimed a one-half share of the $143 million dollar prize split with another ticket holder with all of the required numbers from the April 29 drawing.

According to the Hoosier Lottery, the longtime player bought the winning ticket while grocery shopping at Al's Supermarket on East Lincolnway.  A few days after the drawing, she remembered to check her collection of tickets. She was sitting in the car in her driveway and pulled the pile out of her purse when one of the tickets flew out of the open window.

As she reached for the car door to grab it, the numbers on another ticket caught her eye by containing all of the winning numbers.

"I was numb.  I was just speechless, in disbelief," she told the Hoosier Lottery.

While she hasn't yet decided whether she'll keep working or retire, she's a big Chicago Bears fan and plans on attending some football games next season. At the top of her bucket list is taking a dream trip to Alaska.

For selling the winning ticket, the retailer receives a $100,000 bonus from the Lottery.

(La Porte, IN) - A La Porte woman is calling for a ban on the use of fireworks in the city.

Linda Dilks, 79, said the use of fireworks leading up to and after Independence Day not only disturbed the peace in her neighborhood on E. Jefferson Ave. near Scott St. but it was dangerous with embers landing on the roofs of homes.

Dilks voiced her concerns during last night’s La Porte City Council meeting.

“It was a like a war zone where I live.  Something has to happen,” she said.

Dilks also said her calls to the police did not receive a response from an officer to make sure restrictions on the use of fireworks were being followed.

“In my neighborhood where it’s happening, it’s the same people every year. Every year.  Something needs to be done,” she said.

Currently, fireworks are legal to use in the city during set time periods in the days leading up to and after the Fourth of July.

Mayor Tom Dermody expressed support for the police officers, saying they're also busy with other duties ranging from traffic enforcement to catching drug dealers and other violators of the law.

(La Porte, IN) - The La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership has lost a key member of the organization.

Business Development Manager, Erik Nelson, has left to accept the position of Operations Director at the Northwest Indiana Forum.

During his tenure at LEAP, Nelson worked directly with the La Porte Community School Corporation to connect graduating seniors with local jobs, and coordinating key projects in the City of La Porte.

In his new role, Nelson will help drive execution of key organizational priorities while supporting alignment and accountability across the Northwest Indiana Forum’s leadership team.  The Forum serves as the regional voice for the business community and is a premier resource providing a comprehensive suite of services to promote economic development and the retention of quality jobs throughout Northwest Indiana.

“Erik has been a vital member of our team, and while we are sad to see him go, we are extremely proud of this next step in his career,” said Bert Cook, Executive Director of LEAP.

Nelson gave thanks to Cook and others, including Mayor Tom Dermody, before leaving late last week.

“The last four and a half years at LEAP have been some of the most impactful years of my life.  I’m grateful to have worked for such an incredible organization alongside some really incredible people,” he said.

(New Carlisle, IN) - Schuyler Colfax may not be the most famous name in American history, but he’s a big deal in New Carlisle, where the former congressman and U.S. vice president once lived. There’s now a park there named in his honor.

On June 13 over 100 people gathered for a ceremony to dedicate a pocket park at the corner of Cherry and Front Streets. The event captured the best of small-town life: flag-raising, bell-ringing, residents young and old, first responders, veterans, even an ice cream social. And what is a park dedication without speeches by history experts and state and local dignitaries? The unifying theme of all who spoke was building for the future, enjoying the present, and remembering the past.

Two years ago, the ravages of time caught up with the town’s original First Methodist Church building, constructed in 1858. When the roof finally caved in, the building was condemned by the town and torn down.

In its place has cropped up a public park, thanks to the benefaction of residents Tim and Melanie Creason, who live across the street. For 25 years they stared at a dilapidated church, then a vacant lot. Then they decided to do something about it.

“Due to the various setbacks, there’s really no way to build much of a house there,” Tim said, “so the town was kind of stuck with this vacant lot. They weren’t really sure what to do with it. That’s when the idea sprung into our heads to develop it as a pocket park.”

Creason was inspired by his mother, who, as president of the Bluffton, Indiana Park Board, did something very similar with a burned-out vacant lot in his hometown about 40 years ago. The two parks look remarkably similar.

Creason is proud of the fact that this project came together without draining tax dollars. “It wasn’t a municipal enterprise,” he said. “I don’t know how much that ever happens anymore.” He said the Olive Township Board contributed a flag pole and the town provided an electricity pole. He and his wife took care of the rest. “As far as the actual construction, I knew the right people, and we got some really good help from some really good contractors, and they put together a really nice product,” Creason said.

The park’s design is pure, simple Americana— beautiful grass, comfortable benches, a gazebo, and brick walkways suitable for baby buggies and a quiet evening stroll.

The Creasons have named their contribution to the community Colfax Park, in honor of Schuyler Colfax— onetime resident of New Carlisle, journalist, speaker of the house, vice president under Ulysses Grant, and champion of the 13^th Amendment which abolished slavery.

From the old Methodist church, the Creasons were able to save the bell, which is now the centerpiece of the new park. This 4^th of July they’re ringing that bell for freedom.

(La Porte County, IN) - A woman died in a southern La Porte County house fire overnight.

Just after midnight Saturday, a sheriff’s deputy responded to a residential structure fire in the 2700 west block of CR 1650 South. According to the sheriff’s office, the deputy was unable to make entry due to heavy smoke.

After firefighters from multiple responding departments extinguished the fire, 23-year-old Kathryn M. Zabel was found dead inside the home.

The Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office is now investigating the cause of the fire.

(Indianapolis, IN) - Your 4^th of July cookout may take a smaller bite out of your family budget this year.

According to Indiana Farm Bureau’s annual summer cookout market basket survey, the average cost to feed 10 people at a holiday cookout is $66.73, or about $6.67 per person. That’s a 7% decrease from last year. It’s also 10% better than the national average, which is $7.38 per person.

To compare to your holiday spread, this survey takes into account menu items such as ground beef and burger buns, pork chops, chicken, cheese, pork and beans, potato salad, strawberries, chips, ice cream, cookies and lemonade.

Potato salad is reportedly down 56% this year, largely due to lower egg prices. Remember how expensive they were last year?

Even though chicken breast is a bit more expensive this year, lower pork chop and ground beef prices are helping the affordability factor.

Overall this is good news for consumers, but farmers aren’t exactly cashing in. According to the USDA, farmers receive less than 12 cents of every retail food dollar, with the rest going to processing, packaging, transportation, distribution and retail costs.

“Farmers are price takers, not price makers – just like consumers,” said Randy Kron, Indiana Farm Bureau president. “Margins are still tight for farmers due to high supply costs because the amount farmers are being paid isn’t covering that increase in expenses.”

(La Porte, IN) - Visitors from foreign lands have flocked to the U.S. for the World Cup. A German man recently visited La Porte County for reasons other than soccer.

Dr. Christian Wöhner is an emergency physician from central Germany. He spent the better part of last week riding around with La Porte County EMTs, trading insights and experiencing American pre-hospital care firsthand.

Late last year Wöhner reached out to La Porte County EMS Director Eric Fenstermaker about the possibility of visiting. Fenstermaker jumped at the chance, saying, “It’s always an incredible opportunity to share knowledge, compare systems, and build bonds across the global medical community.”

While Wöhner’s son participated in a camp at La Lumiere School, Dr. Chris, as he prefers to be called, took in some professional development and Hoosier hospitality with La Porte County EMTs.

Comparing notes with Dr. Chris, Fenstermaker said he picked up on some key differences between emergency procedures here and in Germany.

“The biggest thing is on a critical call, it’s [the doctor’s] job to go to the scene and stabilize the patient for the paramedics to transport,” he said, “whereas here, our paramedics do the stabilization and transport all on their own.”

Another difference, Fensteramaker said, is that the emergency physician in Germany, before transporting a patient, has to make arrangements with a hospital or care center. “It may not necessarily be the closest facility, and they may be going quite some distance away,” Fenstermaker said.

Dr. Chris started as an EMT over 30 years ago, then worked his way up to physician. During his visit last week, he was able to talk shop with a top state emergency official, as well. Dr. Eric Yazel, who is originally from Michigan City, just took over as Indiana’s Chief EMS Medical Director. He visited La Porte last Wednesday to visit with Dr. Chris.

Following his visit, Wöhner now intends to write about his findings in La Porte. According to Fenstermaker, “He has every intention of going back to Germany and publishing an article on the differences between German EMS and American EMS.”

Dr. Chris extended an invitation for La Porte EMS staff to visit Germany. “We fully intend on taking him up on that,” Fenstermaker said.

(Walkerton, IN) - Residents and now town officials in Walkerton are keeping a close eye on their splash pad.

The Parks Department in Walkerton has notified the public that security cameras have been installed in the playground and splash pad area.

“The safety and well-being of children and families using our parks remains our top priority,” they said in a statement.

The Parks Department did not offer examples of illegal or inappropriate behavior, but said concerns have been shared with them regarding certain activities in the recreation area just south of John Glenn High School.

“We ask everyone to avoid speculation or making assumptions,” they said, “as it is important that any concerns be handled appropriately and respectfully.” Walkerton officials are reminding the public to say something if they see something out of line.

The cameras will hopefully deter or catch any suspicious behavior in the future.

Walkerton’s splash pad was just repaired a couple of weeks ago after an equipment issue.

(La Porte County) - An Indiana State Police officer rescued a young deer from a dangerous interstate situation.

On Thursday morning Trooper Tim McCormick responded to a call on the Indiana Toll Road in La Porte County involving a deer in distress along the roadway.

McCormick found that the fawn was not injured but could not make it up the steep roadside embankment by itself. According to an ISP Facebook post, the officer carried the little deer to safety so its mother could find it.

“While it’s best to leave wildlife alone,” police explained, “the decision was made to help this fawn up the embankment so that it would not take the easier path and become the cause for a crash report when it got hit on the interstate.”

They added that, as a longtime police veteran, McCormick is not one to “buck” a challenge. Oh deer!

(La Porte, IN) - Just in time for Saturday's parade, a portion of Indiana Avenue in downtown La Porte is back open.

INDOT announced Thursday that the road has reopened between SR 2 and Maple Avenue after a full road reconstruction in that section.

Indiana remains closed farther south between Kingsbury and South Avenues, so through traffic should continue to use the detour of US 6, SR 39 and SR 2.

(Michigan City, IN) - Power has been restored at the courthouse in Michigan City.

According to La Porte County Commissioner Steve Holifield, the outage was discovered and reported around 7 am Thursday morning.  A transformer problem was believed to be the cause.

While NIPSCO addressed the outage, operations at the courthouse were put on a two-hour delay. Power was restored around 9 am, and the courthouse opened back up at 10.

(Indianapolis, IN) - Governor Mike Braun has announced the recipients of recent grant money through the Indiana Department of Transportation.

$84 million is going to 147 Hoosier cities and counties through the Community Crossings Matching Grant Program. The money will be used to fund local infrastructure improvements, including roads and bridges.

In this round of funding, La Porte County came out on the high end, receiving $1 million. Other local municipalities include:

• Michigan City $774,697.92
• Plymouth $717,095.79
• St. Joseph County $1 million
• Starke County $750,189.60
• Valparaiso $1 million
• Chesterton $297,619.50

Other area communities, such as Walkerton, Wanatah, and Beverly Shores, were awarded grants in a previous round of Community Crossings grants. In total, 340 Hoosier communities have received $165 million through the program for 2026.

“Indiana is the crossroads of America and Hoosiers rely on our strong roads and infrastructure to drive economic growth and strong communities,” said Braun. “I was proud to co-author the Community Crossings program when I was in the General Assembly because it encourages skin in the game from local communities and that will always generate better results.” The program has provided more than $2 billion for local road improvement projects since its inception in 2016.

(Porter County, IN) - An out-of-state truck driver made a bad situation worse on the Indiana Tollway at the Portage Barrier Toll Plaza.

According to the Indiana State Police, the trouble started Tuesday morning, when a semi driver refused to pay the toll. Being nice, the trooper offered to take down the woman’s information so she could pay later. When he discovered the driver was providing false information, the officer searched her 2026 Volvo semi cab, allegedly finding marijuana and a bottle of fake urine.

The 38-year-old truck driver from Houston, Texas, who also resisted arrest, was taken to Porter County Jail. She has been charged with False Informing, Resisting Law Enforcement, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Synthetic Urine.

(Indianapolis, IN) - 12 people are now facing federal charges as part of what authorities are calling a major drug ring operated out of Westville Correctional Facility.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana, a Westville inmate, 37-year-old Justin Veal of Indianapolis, led a drug-trafficking organization responsible for distributing hundreds of pounds of illegal narcotics across the state. “At Veal’s direction,” prosecutors said, “co-conspirators Sade Butler of Indianapolis and Shawnlisa Nevels of Fort Wayne obtained methamphetamine, cocaine, Suboxone, and fentanyl from various suppliers and distributed the drugs to customers in Anderson, Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, and several other Indiana communities.” Nine other suspects were also listed in the federal indictment.

The charges follow a months-long investigation led by the Crossroads of America Homeland Security Task Force, which resulted in the seizure of the following contraband and proceeds of criminal activity:

• 13 firearms, including select-fire weapons with drum magazines
• 130 pounds of methamphetamine
• 550 grams of cocaine
• 241 grams of fentanyl
• 25 Suboxone Strips
• 1750 grams of synthetic cannabinoid (“spice”)
• Several thousand counterfeit fentanyl pills
• Heroin
• Cash
• A pill press with drug residue
• High-value jewelry
• 15 cell phones
• 2 vehicles 

The Homeland Security Task Force is a multi-agency partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad.

(Elkhart, IN) - Two area companies—one with ties to La Porte County—are joining forces.

In a press release issued Tuesday, Patrick Industries and Lippert Components announced an all-stock merger.

Both companies manufacture components largely for the outdoor recreation industry. Previous merger talks were called off in May. As per the current agreement, Patrick shareholders will own approximately 52% of the combined company. Lippert shareholders will own about 48%.

Lippert CEO Jason Lippert retired earlier this month. Patrick Industries CEO Andy Nemeth will serve as CEO of the combined company, which will be headquartered in Elkhart. Lippert operates a distribution hub in Westville. The new corporate structure will include 12 directors, six designated by each company.

Nemeth called the merger “an exciting new chapter” for both companies. “We have long respected the Lippert team and their impressive, innovative capabilities across the solutions they deliver and are thrilled to reach this milestone,” he said. “We have two highly successful, well-established organizations with long track records of strategic and organic growth, innovation, and customer service, supported by incredible talent across each enterprise, deep expertise, and a shared commitment to excellence.”

“This combination represents a defining moment for Lippert,” added Johnny Sirpilla, the company’s Interim Chief Executive Officer. “Our shareholders will benefit from ownership in a more diversified company with the financial and operational strength to grow revenues and deliver outstanding value to shareholders and other stakeholders. As two complementary businesses with strong legacies deeply rooted in Elkhart and our other local communities, we understand the potential and positive impact this combination can deliver.”

The merger is expected to close by the first half of next year.

(La Porte County, IN) - Over a 24-hour period earlier this week, La Porte County Sheriff’s deputies stopped three reckless drivers near Rolling Prairie.

On Sunday evening around dusk, an officer on State Road 2 near Lofgren Rd. clocked a 52-year old Hudson Lake area man driving a BMW SUV in excess of 100 mph.

On Monday evening, a 2026 Ram 1500 pickup on US 20 near Rolling Prairie was doing 85 in a 45 mph zone and passing cars in between construction cones, police said. The 44-year-old male driver was cited for reckless driving.

A few minutes later and just down the road, the same Sheriff’s deputy clocked a 2024 Ducati 950 motorcycle doing 108 in a 45 mph zone near Oak Knoll Rd. The rider was a 53-year-old New Carlisle man, who, according to police, was also carrying a Glock 19 pistol in his backpack.