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attract tourists and local residents. The marketing campaign, “Do Downtown Elkhart,” highlights these businesses and the heart of Elkhart.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“Downtown Elkhart has a tremendous density of restaurants, all different styles of cuisines, shopping, arts, and cultural venues, along with fun activities for families and people of all ages,” said Terry Mark, director of communications & public relations for Elkhart County Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB)\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The summer is the perfect time to experience Downtown Elkhart’s wide array of outdoor attractions.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“We have the Riverwalk, which is gorgeous, and downtown parks and trails that people can enjoy,” Mark said.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many foodies, local or visiting, enjoy visiting Downtown Elkhart.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“Downtown Elkhart has great restaurants,” Mark said. “Everything from craft breweries to fine dining to ice cream shops and great coffee.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When choosing a space for its third location, Purely Pressed, an Indiana-based health cafe, chose Downtown Elkhart because of its strategic growth, development, and the supportive business community.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“David Weaver and the incredible team at philanthropic investment firm WeIMPACT had a beautiful vision for Downtown Elkhart,” said Ryan Blake, co-owner of Purely Pressed. “At Purely Pressed, we were excited and continue to be excited to play a part in bringing that vision to life.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Other restaurants and cafes downtown include The Vine, Essence Bar + Restaurant, The Electric Brew, Osteria Amici, Old Style Deli, and Relish Cafe.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Downtown Elkhart doesn’t stop at restaurants, but embraces art and culture as well.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“Downtown Elkhart is home to The Lerner Theater, Midwest Museum of American Art, boutiques, galleries, the National New York Central Railroad Museum on the south end of downtown, Wellfield Botanic Gardens, and the Ruthmere Mansion and Havilah Beardsley House,” Mark said.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stephenson’s of Elkhart has nearly a 100-year history, originally opening in Elkhart during the Great Depression as a women’s fashion retail shop. Today, it offers a wide-array of clothing for men and women, including formal and bridal fashion.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\"Stephenson's is proud to be at the heart of beautiful and vibrant downtown Elkhart,” said Danny Reynolds, owner of Stephenson’s. “To this day, our story continues right where it started on Main Street.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Beacon Health & Aquatics is a hub for fitness in Downtown Elkhart. Its Downtown Elkhart location is one of the three Beacon Health & Fitness locations in Michiana.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On August 29, Downtown Elkhart will host the second Celebration Under the Stars, which is one of the biggest events of the summer. This year, the concert features Boys II Men and The Jacksons. Additional information about this concert can be found at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fthelerner.com\u002Fevent\u002Fcelebration-under-the-stars-2026\u002F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\u002F\u002Fthelerner.com\u002Fevent\u002Fcelebration-under-the-stars-2026\u002F\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Between the variety of different businesses and sights in Downtown Elkhart, the vibe is always at a high point during the summer season.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“There's great energy downtown,” Mark said. “It's been growing, and merchants and people who live downtown really sense that energy. They want to be a part of it and continue to invest.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To plan a trip to Downtown Elkhart or learn more about it, visit \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fdodowntownelkhart.com\u002F\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\u002F\u002Fdodowntownelkhart.com\u002F\">dodowntownelkhart.com\u003C\u002Fa>. For more information on the Elkhart County CVB, you can visit v\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.visitelkhartcounty.com\u002F\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.visitelkhartcounty.com\u002F\">isitelkhartcounty.com\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n","Through all of its stages of growth, Downtown Elkhart and its stores, restaurants, venues, and other businesses continue to attract tourists and local residents. The marketing campaign, “Do Downtown Elkhart,” highlights these businesses and the heart of Elkhart.\n\n\n\n“Downtown Elkhart has a tremendous density of restaurants, all different styles of cuisines, shopping, arts, and cultural …","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F03\u002FElkhart-Downtown.jpg",[41],{"id":42,"name":43,"image":44,"active":45,"type":46,"feature":6,"url":47},6317,"Claire Kenney","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2025\u002F02\u002FClaire-Kenney-500px.jpg",true,"contributor","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fauthors\u002Fclaire-kenney\u002F",[49],{"id":50,"name":51,"image":52,"url":53},645,"Business","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwebsite\u002Ftheme\u002Flifesite\u002Fsections\u002Fbusiness.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fsections\u002Fbusiness\u002F",[],[56],{"id":57,"name":58,"url":59},1499,"Elkhart","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fcities\u002Felkhart\u002F",[61],{"id":62,"name":63,"intranet_id":64,"url":65},6465,"Elkhart County, IN Convention & Visitors Bureau","518","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fpartners\u002Felkhart-county-in-convention-visitors-bureau\u002F",[],[],[69,75,81,87,93],{"id":70,"name":71,"url":72,"logo":73,"logo_mini":74},"5","LaPorteCounty.Life","\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Flaportecounty","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2025\u002F05\u002Flaportecountylife-logo2.svg","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2025\u002F05\u002Flaportecountylife-square2.svg",{"id":76,"name":77,"url":78,"logo":79,"logo_mini":80},"7","Michiana.Life","\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fmichiana","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002Fsites\u002F7\u002F2024\u002F05\u002FMichiana.LIFE_.Standard-Logo-Curves_GRAY.svg","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002Fsites\u002F7\u002F2024\u002F05\u002FMichianaLife-Square-Gray-Curves.svg",{"id":82,"name":83,"url":84,"logo":85,"logo_mini":86},"4","NWI.Life","\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fnwi","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2025\u002F05\u002Fnwilife-logo2.svg","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2025\u002F05\u002Fnwilife-square2.svg",{"id":88,"name":89,"url":90,"logo":91,"logo_mini":92},"3","Portage.Life","\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fportage","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2025\u002F05\u002Fportagelife-logo2.svg","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2025\u002F05\u002Fportagelife-square2.svg",{"id":94,"name":95,"url":96,"logo":97,"logo_mini":98},"2","Valpo.Life","\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fvalpo","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2025\u002F05\u002Fvalpolife-logo2.svg","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2025\u002F05\u002Fvalpolife-square2.svg","1",{"id":101,"date":102,"title":103,"slug":104,"type":36,"content":105,"excerpt":106,"image":107,"authors":108,"sections":120,"schools":127,"cities":128,"partners":133,"locations":139,"tags":140,"sites":141,"rating":99},156124,{"time":32,"formattedDate":33},"Indiana American Water showcases new Northwest Indiana Training Facility during Congressman Frank Mrvan visit","indiana-american-water-showcases-new-northwest-indiana-training-facility-during-congressman-frank-mrvan-visit","\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On Friday, July 24, Indiana American Water welcomed Congressman Frank Mrvan to its new Northwest Indiana Training Facility, offering a firsthand look at the nearly completed training center that is expected to open in the fall.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The visit began with welcome remarks from Drake Abramson, government affairs lead at Indiana American Water, and Barry Suits, president of Indiana American Water.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“We’re very excited about this because it’s going to serve more than just Northwest Indiana,” Suits said. “It’s an example of our enterprise-wide commitment to workforce development as well.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Justin Mount, senior operations manager for Indiana American Water, and Pete Harretos, manager of treatment for Indiana American Water, guided Mrvan through the facility. This facility is a near $1.8 million investment that is expected to strengthen workforce development, improve employee safety, and prepare the next generation of licensed water operators and skilled field employees throughout Northwest Indiana.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Designed as an outdoor \"mini-city,\" the training facility gives employees the opportunity to practice real-world field scenarios in a controlled environment before performing similar work in the communities they serve. The site combines classroom instruction with year-round covered practice areas and a mock street that allows employees to develop skills in production, field services, construction, and future wastewater applications.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“Our team truly wanted the hands-on experience. They  want people to come in from all walks of the industry and say, ‘Here’s a lace and grace technique,’” Mount said. “To have them come here and work with those kinds of folks from other areas, other states, is exciting to see.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The facility will also play an important role in supporting Indiana American Water's union workforce, including nearly 100 United Steelworkers employees.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Training capabilities at the facility include excavation, shoring, locates, traffic control, tapping water mains, boring long services, confined space work, meter installation, pipe cutting, hydrant repair, and water main repair and replacement. The site was also designed with future wastewater training applications in mind.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“The goals are that we have the chance to train all new employees, upscale all existing employees, bring in folks from around the state and also partner with various agencies,” Mount said.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For Mrvan, investing in infrastructure, workforce development, and skilled trades is extremely important to make subsidiaries like Indiana American Water run smoothly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“I’m impressed with the investment by American Water in the workforce development of its employees. You have the United Steelworkers participating and collaborating with management in order to make a better training facility, and I think they made it perfectly clear that if a water company is successful, no one knows,” Mrvan said. “It’s when there’s failures and people don’t have water is when there’s issues. They’re doing what they need to do to invest in Gary, Indiana, and their employees in Northwest Indiana to make sure people get water.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Beyond employee development, the center will serve as a resource for community outreach. Indiana American Water plans to host its first Flow Forward event in Indiana at the site, giving high school students from the Gary area an opportunity to explore careers in the water industry and learn about the education and training pathways available.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“It builds the middle class and it truly builds people’s lives when there’s an investment in workforce development,” Mrvan said. “They train within, and two thirds of all water treatment engineers or water treatment supervisors are trained by American Water. It creates jobs and working wealth in our community, and that’s what we’re all here for.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Northwest Indiana Training Facility represents a long-term investment that serves to reinforce Indiana American Water’s commitment to employee safety and professional development. By creating a dedicated space where workers can practice complex field operations before responding to real-world situations, the company expects the facility to enhance both workforce readiness and service reliability for years to come.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For more information on Indiana American Water, you can \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Famwater.com\u002Finaw\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"http:\u002F\u002Famwater.com\u002Finaw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">visit amwater.com\u002Finaw\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n","On Friday, July 24, Indiana American Water welcomed Congressman Frank Mrvan to its new Northwest Indiana Training Facility, offering a firsthand look at the nearly completed training center that is expected to open in the fall.\n\n\n\nThe visit began with welcome remarks from Drake Abramson, government affairs lead at Indiana American Water, and Barry Suits, president of Indiana American …","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002FIndiana-American-Water-Training-Facility-Tour-with-Mrvan-2026.png",[109,115],{"id":110,"name":111,"image":112,"active":45,"type":113,"feature":6,"url":114},1801,"Garrett Spoor","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2023\u002F05\u002FGarrett-Spoor-500.jpg","staff","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fauthors\u002Fgarrett-spoor\u002F",{"id":116,"name":117,"image":118,"active":6,"type":113,"feature":6,"url":119},6529,"Jessica Bergfors","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fthemes\u002Fgnl-publish\u002Fpublic\u002Fimages\u002Fdefault-profile-picture.5258d2.png","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fauthors\u002Fjessica-bergfors\u002F",[121,122],{"id":50,"name":51,"image":52,"url":53},{"id":123,"name":124,"image":125,"url":126},1286,"Development","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwebsite\u002Ftheme\u002Flifesite\u002Fsections\u002Fbusiness-biz-development.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fsections\u002Fbusiness\u002Fdevelopment\u002F",[],[129],{"id":130,"name":131,"url":132},1803,"Gary","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fcities\u002Fgary\u002F",[134],{"id":135,"name":136,"intranet_id":137,"url":138},2313,"Indiana American Water","428","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fpartners\u002Findiana-american-water\u002F",[],[],[142,143,144,145],{"id":70,"name":71,"url":72,"logo":73,"logo_mini":74},{"id":82,"name":83,"url":84,"logo":85,"logo_mini":86},{"id":88,"name":89,"url":90,"logo":91,"logo_mini":92},{"id":94,"name":95,"url":96,"logo":97,"logo_mini":98},{"id":147,"date":148,"title":149,"slug":150,"type":36,"content":151,"excerpt":152,"image":153,"authors":154,"sections":160,"schools":167,"cities":168,"partners":169,"locations":175,"tags":176,"sites":177,"rating":99},156090,{"time":32,"formattedDate":33},"McColly Real Estate hosts annual awards to celebrate agents and staff members","mccolly-real-estate-hosts-annual-awards-to-celebrate-agents-and-staff-members","\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On Thursday, July 23, McColly Real Estate spotlighted both agents and employees that make the magic happen at its Annual Awards & Recognition Celebration. Held at Innsbrook Country Club, the agents and staff who act as the driving force behind McColly Real Estate were celebrated with gift bags, prizes, and awards.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Attendees were greeted with a breakfast spread and spook-tacular Halloween decor to fit this year’s theme, Celebrating Spellbound Success. Plenty of crayon and witch costumes filled the venue. After time was spent connecting and eating, the program began.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With awards presented to both individuals and teams, numerous McColly Real Estate agents were recognized for their outstanding achievements. Honors were awarded in categories such as Top Producer, Top Listing Team, Top Selling Team, as well as service awards celebrating years of dedication and commitment to the company. The event highlighted the hard work, ambition, and unwavering dedication of McColly's agents and staff, recognizing the contributions they have made to the company's continued success.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Annual Awards & Recognition Celebration is one of the many ways McColly Real Estate shows its appreciation to staff and agents. Other annual recognitions include the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Farticle\u002Fmccolly-real-estate-distributes-1-6-million-to-its-brokers-at-annual-performance-plus-breakfast\u002F?region=valpo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Performance Plus Breakfast\u003C\u002Fa> and the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Farticle\u002Fmccolly-real-estate-holiday-open-house-2025\u002F?region=valpo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Holiday Open House.\u003C\u002Fa> \u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most importantly, McColly Real Estate is motivated to serve the community through exceptional client service and giving back.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To learn more about McColly Real Estate, visit its website at \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Fmccolly.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">mccolly.com\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n","On Thursday, July 23, McColly Real Estate spotlighted both agents and employees that make the magic happen at its Annual Awards & Recognition Celebration. Held at Innsbrook Country Club, the agents and staff who act as the driving force behind McColly Real Estate were celebrated with gift bags, prizes, and awards.\n\n\n\n\n\nAttendees were greeted with a breakfast spread and spook-tacular Halloween …","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002FMcColly-Real-Estate-Annual-Banquet-2026.jpg",[155],{"id":156,"name":157,"image":158,"active":6,"type":113,"feature":6,"url":159},6503,"Salem Billings","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F04\u002FSalem-Billings-500px.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fauthors\u002Fsalem-billings\u002F",[161,162],{"id":50,"name":51,"image":52,"url":53},{"id":163,"name":164,"image":165,"url":166},5344,"Staff Development and Motivation","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwebsite\u002Ftheme\u002Flifesite\u002Fsections\u002Fbusiness-staff-development.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fsections\u002Fbusiness\u002Fstaff-development-and-motivation\u002F",[],[],[170],{"id":171,"name":172,"intranet_id":173,"url":174},3553,"McColly Real Estate","247","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fpartners\u002Fmccolly-real-estate\u002F",[],[],[178,179,180,181],{"id":70,"name":71,"url":72,"logo":73,"logo_mini":74},{"id":82,"name":83,"url":84,"logo":85,"logo_mini":86},{"id":88,"name":89,"url":90,"logo":91,"logo_mini":92},{"id":94,"name":95,"url":96,"logo":97,"logo_mini":98},{"id":183,"date":184,"title":185,"slug":186,"type":36,"content":187,"excerpt":188,"image":189,"authors":190,"sections":196,"schools":202,"cities":203,"partners":208,"locations":214,"tags":215,"sites":216,"rating":99},156086,{"time":32,"formattedDate":33},"6th annual LakeFest brings fireworks, music, and more to the City of La Porte","6th-annual-lakefest-brings-fireworks-music-and-more-to-the-city-of-la-porte","\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The City of La Porte’s annual LakeFest summer festival is back in full swing! Kicking off on Friday, July 24, the festival promises an action-packed weekend along the lakes of La Porte thanks to the collaboration between the city and several local businesses and organizations.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The fun began with an all-day scavenger hunt along Chessie Trail, presented by the La Porte County Public Library. The family-friendly fun was followed up with a trip to the past on Pine Lake with the Hesston Steam Museum and the Museum at Lassen’s Resort. The city places a lot of emphasis on making sure everyone can enjoy LakeFest.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“We want to have something for everyone. Lake Fest is to give our residents something to do on a beautiful summer weekend, and we also want to attract new people to La Porte, so we want to have a variety of different things to do. We want to showcase everything that's great about Laporte, whether it's on Pine Lake where we have the steamboat excursions, or Clear Lake where we were able to have concerts,” said Mark Schreiber, La Porte Park’s Superintendent and LakeFest Committee Chairman.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Friday’s event concluded with the monthly Friday Night Live at Fox Park. Featuring a line up of local food vendors and an array of activities, Friday Night Live is something La Porte residents always look forward to. This month’s iteration at LakeFest was soundtracked byJukeBox Heroes. Attendees could also take part in the Raymond & Spence Insurance Wiffleball Homerun Derby or play games at the Indiana National Guard’s gaming trailer amongst other things.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“This year we had a group that was called Jukebox Heroes, and it was a great kickoff last night. We had our fireworks, had a great crowd, a great night, and everybody had a great time,” said Schreiber.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Friday’s events, which ended with a bang during a fireworks show over Clear Lake, was just a prelude to everything planned for the rest of the weekend.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Saturday morning was for those who like a little activity in their lives with the Bolt for the Heart Run\u002FWalk in Fox Park at 8 a.m., the Fitness Zone kicking off its free classes and equipment rental in Unity Park at 8 a.m., and a mountain bike ride through Soldiers Memorial Park at 9 a.m.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Clear Lake Crafters Market at 9 a.m. on Saturday at Fox Park let attendees shop from dozens of local artisans to find the perfect gift to themselves or others. Saturday also featured a performance from Uncle Kracker at the Dennis F. Smith Amphitheater. LakeFest showcases a diverse range of artists and genres during its three days to ensure all attendees can enjoy a live performance at the event.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“Two Story Road is going to be opening up for Uncle Cracker. And the interesting thing is, we came to find out that Jamel, who's part of the duo in the band, was actually born in Laporte County. I'm very excited for them to be able to play in front of their hometown, even though it was just a happy coincidence. ” Schreiber said.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sunday will round out the weekend with a car show at and a NERF gun battle at Fox Park. The annual Fiesta del Lago concert will take the stage of the Dennis F. Smith Amphitheater at noon, the Sunday Funday event at Stone Beach and its collection of tournaments and Beach & Brews begins at 10 a.m., and the guests can take one last trip on the steam boat at Pine Lake until 6:30 p.m.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The City of La Porte’s LakeFest wouldn’t be possible without sponsors like Visit Michigan City LaPorte, NIPSCO, Duneland Media, and WM, amongst others, who help to keep the event free to attend. A full list of this year’s events canbe found online on the LakeFest website.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“This is really about our community and showcasing what makes it special. And it's not just the lakes and the parks, which we always talk about. It's the people, it's the hospitality. There's something special about Laporte, and I hope it comes through in LakeFest,” said Schreiber.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Learn more about the City of La Porte at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cityoflaporte.com\u002F\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cityoflaporte.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cityoflaporte.com\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n","The City of La Porte’s annual LakeFest summer festival is back in full swing! Kicking off on Friday, July 24, the festival promises an action-packed weekend along the lakes of La Porte thanks to the collaboration between the city and several local businesses and organizations.\n\n\n\n\n\nThe fun began with an all-day scavenger hunt along Chessie Trail, presented by the La Porte County Public Library …","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002FAnother-Feature-Image-Chain-28-1.png",[191],{"id":192,"name":193,"image":194,"active":45,"type":113,"feature":45,"url":195},1181,"Damon Modglin","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2022\u002F12\u002FDamon-Modglin-500.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fauthors\u002Fdamon-modglin\u002F",[197],{"id":198,"name":199,"image":200,"url":201},1538,"Entertainment","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwebsite\u002Ftheme\u002Flifesite\u002Fsections\u002Fentertainment.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fsections\u002Fentertainment\u002F",[],[204],{"id":205,"name":206,"url":207},2947,"La Porte","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fcities\u002Fla-porte\u002F",[209],{"id":210,"name":211,"intranet_id":212,"url":213},965,"City of La Porte","237","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fpartners\u002Fcity-of-la-porte\u002F",[],[],[217,218,219,220],{"id":70,"name":71,"url":72,"logo":73,"logo_mini":74},{"id":82,"name":83,"url":84,"logo":85,"logo_mini":86},{"id":88,"name":89,"url":90,"logo":91,"logo_mini":92},{"id":94,"name":95,"url":96,"logo":97,"logo_mini":98},{"id":222,"date":223,"title":224,"slug":225,"type":36,"content":226,"excerpt":227,"image":228,"authors":229,"sections":231,"schools":237,"cities":238,"partners":240,"locations":241,"tags":242,"sites":243,"rating":99},156062,{"time":32,"formattedDate":33},"LEAP sponsors fifth annual La Porte Young Professionals LakeFest Cornhole Tournament","leap-sponsors-fifth-annual-la-porte-young-professionals-lakefest-cornhole-tournament","\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When it comes to lawn games that can create an exhilarating experience with family and friends, not many activities compare to cornhole. As a way to celebrate the popular pastime, the La Porte Young Professionals (LPYP) participated in the annual LakeFest Cornhole Tournament on Sunday, July 26. The event took place at Stone Lake Beach, near the beach house, and took place as part of the La Porte LakeFest weekend celebration.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership (LEAP) served as one of the sponsors for the event, giving the community a fun opportunity to enjoy friendly competition while spending time along the city's lakefront.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“This event is great because it brings out a lot of people. We get to meet a lot of people and we can tell them more about our group. We really only get together about once a quarter, just as a networking opportunity for people in the La Porte area. But it's great to get our name out there. So being part of Lake Fest is really important to us,” said Lindsay Kneifel, Director of Marketing and Communications for LEAP and Head of the LPYP.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">LEAP works as a connecting and driving force for business in the Greater La Porte area. With a mission to strengthen the community as a premier destination for businesses, workforce development and residents, the LakeFest Cornhole Tournament provided another opportunity to bring people together while highlighting one of La Porte's signature summer traditions.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“These events going on at the lakes really showcase what we have in our community. And as far as cornhole, it's a really fun game. We've never had any issues with people taking it too seriously. It's just a really fun event to have out on the beach and show off our Stone Lake,” said Kneifel.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Teams of all skill levels competed throughout the tournament. Whether players were seasoned competitors or simply looking for a fun afternoon with friends and family, the tournament welcomed everyone to take part in the festivities. Spectators also gathered around to cheer on competitors while enjoying the lively atmosphere created by LakeFest.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“We do have sponsors for the event, and we give them two teams in the tournament. This event helps us get out there, letting people know that Leap is a part of this LakeFest,” said Kneifel.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For the LPYP, the tournament also served as an opportunity to draw people to the game and learn more about what the organization does, as it hosts networking events to encourage involvement and leadership in the community. This year marked the fifth year for the cornhole tournament being featured as a LakeFest event.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As LakeFest came to a close, the cornhole tournament acted as a pinnacle activity and demonstrated how a simple game can bring people together. Through community partnerships, local engagement and a shared sense of fun, the event highlighted the spirit of La Porte while creating lasting memories for competitors and spectators alike.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“Everyone can enjoy the beautiful weather and see that La Porte has so much to offer as far as our natural resources. There's always something going on in La Porte, even outside of Lake Fest. You can always find something in the summer to do. You can take your boat out, go kayaking or walk the trails. There's just so much you can do in La Porte, and I hope people really realize that as they're out here this weekend,” said Kneifel.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For more information on LEAP,  you can visit \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flaportepartnership.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">laportepartnership.com\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n","When it comes to lawn games that can create an exhilarating experience with family and friends, not many activities compare to cornhole. As a way to celebrate the popular pastime, the La Porte Young Professionals (LPYP) participated in the annual LakeFest Cornhole Tournament on Sunday, July 26. The event took place at Stone Lake Beach, near the beach house, and took place as part of the La Porte …","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002FAnother-Feature-Image-Chain-30-1.png",[230],{"id":110,"name":111,"image":112,"active":45,"type":113,"feature":6,"url":114},[232],{"id":233,"name":234,"image":235,"url":236},1031,"Community","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwebsite\u002Ftheme\u002Flifesite\u002Fsections\u002Fcommunity.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fsections\u002Fcommunity\u002F",[],[239],{"id":205,"name":206,"url":207},[],[],[],[244],{"id":70,"name":71,"url":72,"logo":73,"logo_mini":74},{"id":246,"date":247,"title":248,"slug":249,"type":250,"content":251,"excerpt":252,"image":253,"authors":254,"sections":259,"schools":269,"cities":270,"partners":271,"locations":277,"tags":278,"sites":279,"rating":99},154718,{"time":32,"formattedDate":33},"Leadership Life: Janice Ryba","leadership-life-janice-ryba","video","\u003Cp>GNL Founder Chris Mahlmann sits down with Janice Ryba, CEO of St. Mary Medical Center! In this special episode, they look back on Janice’s 42-year career, from the memorable moments throughout it to her hopes for the future after she retires.\u003C\u002Fp>\n","GNL Founder Chris Mahlmann sits down with Janice Ryba, CEO of St. Mary Medical Center! In this special episode, they look back on Janice’s 42-year career, from the memorable moments throughout it to her hopes for the future after she retires.","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F06\u002FJanice-Ryba-LL.jpg",[255],{"id":256,"name":257,"image":118,"active":6,"type":46,"feature":6,"url":258},6374,"Sarah Lopez","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fauthors\u002Fsarah-lopex\u002F",[260,265],{"id":261,"name":262,"image":263,"url":264},1622,"Features","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwebsite\u002Ftheme\u002Flifesite\u002Fsections\u002Ffeature.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fsections\u002Ffeatures\u002F",{"id":266,"name":267,"image":27,"url":268},3213,"Leadership Life","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fsections\u002Ffeatures\u002Fleadership-life\u002F",[],[],[272],{"id":273,"name":274,"intranet_id":275,"url":276},4610,"Powers Health","131","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fpartners\u002Fpowers-health\u002F",[],[],[280,281,282,283,284],{"id":70,"name":71,"url":72,"logo":73,"logo_mini":74},{"id":76,"name":77,"url":78,"logo":79,"logo_mini":80},{"id":82,"name":83,"url":84,"logo":85,"logo_mini":86},{"id":88,"name":89,"url":90,"logo":91,"logo_mini":92},{"id":94,"name":95,"url":96,"logo":97,"logo_mini":98},{"id":286,"date":287,"title":290,"slug":291,"type":36,"content":292,"excerpt":293,"image":294,"authors":295,"sections":297,"schools":304,"cities":305,"partners":306,"locations":312,"tags":313,"sites":314,"rating":99},156034,{"time":288,"formattedDate":289},"17850","July 25, 2026","Market on the Square brings delicious food, live music, and tons of summer fun to City of Portage","market-on-the-square-brings-delicious-food-live-music-and-tons-of-summer-fun-to-city-of-portage-2","\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"h-\">\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The City of Whiting kicked off the 2026 Pierogi Fest on Friday, July 24. The Pierogi Fest tradition started decades ago as a small neighborhood celebration of Eastern European and has since evolved into one of Northwest Indiana’s most recognizable summer traditions.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Each year, visitors can explore a variety of food blends, entertainment, culture, and activities that have made Pierogi Fest so special over the years. As a result, this multi-day festival has served as an attraction for people of all ages.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“I think it really comes to the fact that the community rallies behind it,” said Joe Murzyn, executive director of the Whiting Robertsdale Chamber of Commerce. “I'm the only paid employee here, and it takes an army of volunteers to make sure that everyone comes in and has a good time. I think it's sticking to the core of making it an ethnic festival while mixing a little bit of everything when it comes down to the food vendors and the entertainment.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the festival’s most beloved traditions is the Polka Parade, which features local businesses, community organizations, elected officials, and volunteers dressed in costumes as they make their way through downtown Whiting. The parade reflects the overall personality of Pierogi Fest, which embraces community traditions while encouraging attendees to celebrate with a sense of humor and creativity.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Polka Parade set the tone on opening day. Other fan favorite events include the Polka Dance Contest on Saturday, July 25, and the Pierogi Toss and Eating Contest on Sunday, July 26.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For performers, this year’s Pierogi Fest is celebrated on four stages. There will be exciting entertainment acts on each stage such as:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>Beer Garden Stage – Polka Confetti, Creatures of Habit, The Static Age, Day by Day, Polkaholics, I’m With Frank, Big City, Beatle Jam, Bats Outta Hell\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>La Porte Avenue Stage – Steve Hurd, Elvis Diet, Nomad Planets, Danny Donuts and Grandpappy, Sgt. Sauerkrauts Band, Metropolly, Caught on Cline, Help Hounds, GOOD VIBEZ\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Olivier Stage – Polkaholics, The Happy Wanderers, Eddie Karosa Jr. and the Boys of Illinois, Buscia Cooking Show, Mr. Pierogi’s Songfest, Michelle’s Dance Center, Take Five, Polonia Polish Folk Dance Ensemble\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>Sheridan Avenue Stage – Crosstown Exotics, EZ TONES, Eddie Wojcik, Soundz of Santana, The Dlayma Show, Steve Kellogg Magic, Hoosier Strings, Genie O and the Windy City Brass, Derek Caruso and the Blues Fuse, PROST, Phil Angotti\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Downtown Whiting is completely transformed into a lively festival grounds every year for Pierogi Fest. Of course, the pierogi remain at the celebration. However, visitors are able to sample traditional versions of the popular Eastern European dish, along with unique variations for food options that are offered by vendors.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“We have one of the most professional-looking food trucks I've seen here, called Mustache Lily's Pizza,” said Murzyn. “We have I Love Grill and Lemonade, and we have Boba Time. We’re trying to have a healthy mix of vendors and not just a bunch of pierogies, although we want the pierogies to feature predominantly. At the end of the day, this is Pierogie Fest, and we wanted to make sure that we're sticking to our roots.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Guests also have the opportunity to take part in competitions and demonstrations at Pierogi Fest. Creating an experience that is memorable for the attendees has not only been the main objective for the City of Whiting in creating the event, but also to ensure that the celebration only continues to grow every year.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Founded in 1889, Whiting has long been a part of the Northwest Indiana community. Combining a celebration like Pierogi Fest with the culture and history that this city has to offer for local residents is what keeps this event feeling like a staple tradition for many years, with the hope to continue it for many more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“I just want to say thank you to all the volunteers that made this happen,” said Murzyn. “I want to say thank you to our mayor, our streets department, our fire department, our parks department, and everyone else involved in taking Pierogi Fest from an empty street to a street full of thousands of people here for a good time.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To check out the full schedule of performers for the rest of Pierogi Fest weekend, you can visit \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Fpierogifest.net\u002Fschedule\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">pierogifest.net\u002Fschedule\u003C\u002Fa>. For additional information on the City of Whiting and its upcoming events, visit \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Fwhitingindiana.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">whitingindiana.com\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003C\u002Fp>\n","The City of Whiting kicked off the 2026 Pierogi Fest on Friday, July 24. The Pierogi Fest tradition started decades ago as a small neighborhood celebration of Eastern European and has since evolved into one of Northwest Indiana’s most recognizable summer traditions.\n\n\n\n\n\nEach year, visitors can explore a variety of food blends, entertainment, culture, and activities that have made Pierogi Fest …","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002FCity-of-Whiting-Pierogi-Fest-2026.png",[296],{"id":110,"name":111,"image":112,"active":45,"type":113,"feature":6,"url":114},[298,299],{"id":198,"name":199,"image":200,"url":201},{"id":300,"name":301,"image":302,"url":303},1155,"Cuisine","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwebsite\u002Ftheme\u002Flifesite\u002Fsections\u002Fentertainment-cuisine.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fsections\u002Fentertainment\u002Fcuisine\u002F",[],[],[307],{"id":308,"name":309,"intranet_id":310,"url":311},983,"City of Whiting","132","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fpartners\u002Fcity-of-whiting\u002F",[],[],[315,316,317,318],{"id":70,"name":71,"url":72,"logo":73,"logo_mini":74},{"id":82,"name":83,"url":84,"logo":85,"logo_mini":86},{"id":88,"name":89,"url":90,"logo":91,"logo_mini":92},{"id":94,"name":95,"url":96,"logo":97,"logo_mini":98},{"id":320,"date":321,"title":323,"slug":324,"type":36,"content":325,"excerpt":326,"image":327,"authors":328,"sections":330,"schools":337,"cities":338,"partners":339,"locations":340,"tags":341,"sites":342,"rating":99},154817,{"time":322,"formattedDate":289},"17849","Survivor Series: Gina Zylo","survivor-series-gina-zylo","\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In January 2020, Gina Zylo acted quickly after experiencing a series of concerning symptoms. That same month, she was diagnosed with breast cancer.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“I found the lump myself,” she said. “I had been having these pains in my left breast too, so I called the doctor and scheduled a mammogram.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The following mammogram led radiology to immediately schedule an ultrasound for further testing after detecting the possibility of cancer.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“The radiologist was fairly certain after reviewing the mammogram results that I had cancer,” Zylo said. “After the ultrasound he was very suspicious, but didn’t know what kind. He immediately scheduled a biopsy.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A day or so later, Zylo received the biopsy results. She in fact did have the much-dreaded disease.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“It was triple negative breast cancer, which is a very aggressive form of breast cancer,” said Zylo.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The term triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) derives from the fact that the cancer tests negative for three receptors that fuel most breast cancers. These receptors are known as estrogen receptors (ER), progesterone receptors (PR), and HER2 proteins. Not only is TNBC hard to detect, it is also extremely aggressive and prone to rapid spread and growth. Furthermore, it has a high likelihood of returning within a few years.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Zylo finished her treatment less than a year after her diagnosis. By August 2020, she was in remission.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“I’m currently cancer free and have been for several years,” said Zylo. “I count my blessings for that, especially given the nature of triple negative breast cancer.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Cancer does not run in Zylo’s family, and Zylo’s breast cancer is the only confirmed cancer case in her family. Dense breast tissue like Zylo has makes breast cancer particularly challenging to detect.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“I tell women all the time, if you have dense breast tissue as I did, you really have to advocate for yourself,” she said. “It’s not always found just with a mammogram. You should go ahead and ask for an ultrasound too, just to be vigilant.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Zylo encourages those struggling with a diagnosis to remain positive, keep fighting, and take the journey to recovery little by little.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“It really is a very emotional time and it’s just learning to take things one step at a time and knowing that there's light at the end of the tunnel,” she said. “In the very beginning, I just thought I was done and I thought it was over. I thought I was going to die, but I remained resilient and positive, which are two of the core things that got me through.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To this very day, Zylo takes nothing for granted – her health, work, family, friends, community, and even the little things. She is grateful to be alive and, once again, have her health back. Now, she considers it a duty to help others going through cancer, particularly TNBC given its complexity and nuances, to fight and remain informed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n","In January 2020, Gina Zylo acted quickly after experiencing a series of concerning symptoms. That same month, she was diagnosed with breast cancer.\n\n\n\n“I found the lump myself,” she said. “I had been having these pains in my left breast too, so I called the doctor and scheduled a mammogram.”\n\n\n\nThe following mammogram led radiology to immediately schedule an ultrasound for further testing …","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F06\u002FSurvivor-Series-Frame-3.jpg",[329],{"id":42,"name":43,"image":44,"active":45,"type":46,"feature":6,"url":47},[331,332],{"id":261,"name":262,"image":263,"url":264},{"id":333,"name":334,"image":335,"url":336},5449,"Survivor Series","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwebsite\u002Ftheme\u002Flifesite\u002Fsections\u002Ffeature-survivor-series.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fsections\u002Ffeatures\u002Fsurvivor-series\u002F",[],[],[],[],[],[343,344,345,346,347],{"id":70,"name":71,"url":72,"logo":73,"logo_mini":74},{"id":76,"name":77,"url":78,"logo":79,"logo_mini":80},{"id":82,"name":83,"url":84,"logo":85,"logo_mini":86},{"id":88,"name":89,"url":90,"logo":91,"logo_mini":92},{"id":94,"name":95,"url":96,"logo":97,"logo_mini":98},{"id":349,"date":350,"title":353,"slug":354,"type":36,"content":355,"excerpt":356,"image":357,"authors":358,"sections":365,"schools":372,"cities":373,"partners":374,"locations":380,"tags":381,"sites":382,"rating":99},155987,{"time":351,"formattedDate":352},"17848","July 23, 2026","Back-to-school season is the perfect time for families to reset their finances","back-to-school-season-is-the-perfect-time-for-families-to-reset-their-finances","\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It's that time of year again when stores swap out summer decorations and fill their aisles with folders, notebooks, backpacks, and everything else on students' back-to-school shopping lists. While many families focus on checking supplies off their lists before the first day of school, the season is also an ideal time to take a closer look at household finances and prepare for the expenses that will continue throughout the school year.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to Colleen Shepherd, community outreach director at Purdue Federal Credit Union, back-to-school season offers families the chance to start fresh financially.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\"Back-to-school season is one of the best times for families to review their finances because it naturally kind of brings attention to our spending, our routines, upcoming expenses for the remainder of the year,\" Shepherd said. \"We tend to consistently focus so much on the school supplies and the clothes and the schedules, but it gives us an opportunity to make sure that the family's overall financial plan is ready for the school year ahead.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rather than only budgeting for August, Shepherd encourages families to think about the months ahead. Setting savings goals, reviewing monthly expenses, and planning for future costs can help prevent financial stress later in the school year.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\"It's a good time for us to start setting our financial goals, similar to New Year's resolutions,\" Shepherd said. \"Creating those savings goals, paying down debt, holiday spending – things like that. Also, evaluating our insurance, our benefits, and the things that we're paying for. It's a good time for us to start teaching our kids financial responsibility with budgeting, comparing prices and needs versus wants.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the first steps Shepherd recommends is reviewing the household budget and creating a checklist of expected school-related expenses. In addition to supplies and clothing, families should consider extracurricular activities, school pictures, field trips, physical exams and any other costs that may come up throughout the year.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\"It's really just about creating a family calendar,\" Shepherd said. \"You have your school events, sports schedules, fee due dates, and parent-teacher conferences, so you can really drill down for the rest of the school year. We're starting in August and going through May, giving us a jump start on what we're doing all throughout that school year, not just right now.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Shepherd also encourages parents to save money by shopping smarter before heading to the checkout line. Taking inventory of supplies already at home, setting a spending limit and sticking to a shopping list can make a noticeable difference.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\"I can't stress enough about going through your old supplies,\" Shepherd said. \"My daughter has notebooks that were never even touched. These are things that we're reusing. We're not just dumping your old backpack and starting over.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For families working within a tight budget, Shepherd recommends prioritizing necessities first and delaying purchases that can wait.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\"If we are on a tight budget, prioritize what are the must-haves that they need right away,\" Shepherd said. \"School meals, prescription medication, and transportation come first. Trendy backpacks and designer clothes can wait if we can't swing that at this point.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Planning ahead is especially important for parents whose children participate in sports, clubs and other extracurricular activities. Shepherd recommends researching costs before signing up, estimating annual expenses and breaking those costs into manageable monthly savings.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\"A lot of schools and leagues offer scholarships, reduced fees, and payment plans,\" Shepherd said. \"Never hesitate to reach out and see what resources are available, because there are lots of different opportunities for assistance.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Shepherd also encourages families to review automatic payments before the school year begins. Streaming services, educational apps, gym memberships, and forgotten free trials can quietly chip away at a family's budget.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\"So many people are surprised by how many automatic payments are coming out of their accounts each month,\" Shepherd said. \"It's definitely a good time to look through those and ask yourself if they're bringing any benefit or if they're something you can get rid of.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Back-to-school season can also serve as an opportunity to get a head start on holiday savings. Even setting aside a small amount from each paycheck can help ease the financial pressure that often comes with December.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\"If you saved just $25 a week starting now, you'd have about $400 by December,\" Shepherd said. \"If you saved $50 a week, you'd have about $800. Saving a little each paycheck can really help with those holiday expenses.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Shepherd also reminds families to take advantage of the resources available in their communities. Backpack giveaways, school supply drives, and nonprofit organizations can help families of all income levels prepare for the school year.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\"There are so many resources in our area that people don't even know about,\" Shepherd said. \"Sometimes, families think they probably don't qualify, but a lot of these backpack giveaways are open to everyone. If the resources are there and they'll help ease the burden, take advantage of them.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Local schools often partner with area nonprofits to discreetly provide free backpacks and basic clothing to families in need. If you are experiencing financial hardship, contact your local school's social worker directly. For broader community aid, call Indiana 211 or use the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fin211.communityos.org\u002F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Indiana 211 Service Directory\u003C\u002Fa> to locate nearby family aid and supply.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In addition to helping families prepare financially, Purdue Federal is committed to teaching financial literacy to young people through its Youth Savings Match Program and financial wellness outreach. The credit union matches initial deposits into new youth savings accounts up to $50 and partners with schools, nonprofits and summer camps to teach children about saving, budgeting and making smart financial decisions.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\"We spend a lot of time with youth in our area all throughout the year,\" Shepherd said. \"A lot of kids aren't getting that education at home, so it's good for us to bring that top of mind for them.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether families are buying calculators or preparing for a season full of sports and activities, Shepherd hopes parents remember that back-to-school shopping isn't just about supplies.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\"We don't have to only have fresh starts on January 1,\" Shepherd said. \"Back-to-school season is another opportunity to look over our family budget, see what we're doing, what we can cut out and set ourselves up for success.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Families can also refer to the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.freeschoolsupplies.net\u002Fst\u002Findiana\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Indiana Free School Supplies\u003C\u002Fa> resource to help out with their back-to-school shopping this year.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To learn more about Purdue Federal Credit Union's financial wellness programs, Youth Savings Match Program and other resources designed to help families build strong financial habits, visit the Purdue Federal Credit Union website at \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Fwww.purduefed.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">www.purduefed.com\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n","It's that time of year again when stores swap out summer decorations and fill their aisles with folders, notebooks, backpacks, and everything else on students' back-to-school shopping lists. While many families focus on checking supplies off their lists before the first day of school, the season is also an ideal time to take a closer look at household finances and prepare for the expenses that …","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2025\u002F07\u002FPurdue-Federal-Credit-Union-Offers-400-Bonus-for-New-Members.jpg",[359],{"id":360,"name":361,"image":362,"active":45,"type":363,"feature":6,"url":364},6373,"Samantha Marino","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2025\u002F03\u002FIMG_99322.jpg","coverage","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fauthors\u002Fsamantha-marino\u002F",[366,367],{"id":50,"name":51,"image":52,"url":53},{"id":368,"name":369,"image":370,"url":371},3471,"Markets and Investing","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwebsite\u002Ftheme\u002Flifesite\u002Fsections\u002Fbusiness-markets-investing.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fsections\u002Fbusiness\u002Fmarkets-and-investing\u002F",[],[],[375],{"id":376,"name":377,"intranet_id":378,"url":379},4650,"Purdue Federal Credit Union","61","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fpartners\u002Fpurdue-federal-credit-union\u002F",[],[],[383,384],{"id":70,"name":71,"url":72,"logo":73,"logo_mini":74},{"id":82,"name":83,"url":84,"logo":85,"logo_mini":86},{"id":386,"date":387,"title":388,"slug":389,"type":36,"content":390,"excerpt":391,"image":392,"authors":393,"sections":395,"schools":402,"cities":403,"partners":408,"locations":409,"tags":410,"sites":411,"rating":99},155980,{"time":351,"formattedDate":352},"A La Porte County Life in the Spotlight: Dave Fink","a-la-porte-county-life-in-the-spotlight-dave-fink","\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dave Fink has served as the youth services librarian and assistant supervisor of the Youth Services Department at Michigan City Public Library for 15 years.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fink grew up in Michigan City, but left in the mid-1990s to earn his undergraduate degree at Indiana University (IU) Bloomington, where he later earned his master’s degree as well. His studies focused on music and, prior to his career at Michigan City Public Library, Fink was a teacher.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“His work at the library helps make a significant difference in the educational growth of children in our community as well as fosters a love of reading in them,” said one local community member.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fink runs different programs at the library, including Story Time and STEAM Ahead.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Story Time is programming designed for children up to 5 years old that integrates reading, crafts, songs, and activities.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“I started to put some of the stories on YouTube, and now there’s a teacher in California that uses them in her daily preschool curriculum,” said Fink. “I put the book ‘Trashy Town’ to music and narration. The book details a garbage truck’s journey picking up trash in a town.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The teacher’s students recently sent Fink fan mail, including a “Trashy Town” poster they made and other individual drawings.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“I am going to create a version of the story where the truck drives through their town in California,” said Fink. “I’m thrilled that the students love the story videos. It's neat to think about a school halfway across the country learning from what we’re doing at Michigan City Public Library.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fink also wants to create a “Trashy Town” story version that is focused on Michigan City and incorporates its iconic businesses and attractions, like the East Pierhead Lighthouse.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“We have a lot of children attending story time this summer,” said Fink. “We average around 65 people at each weekly storytime. It's really been a popular program at the library.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">STEAM Ahead is targeted for kids ages 6 and up, and parents and adults often attend with their children. STEAM Ahead programming leverages robots, 3D pens, LEGOs, and other materials to explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math. The sessions typically have around 15 students weekly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Outside of work Fink enjoys watching basketball, mainly reruns of old 1980s and 1990s games on YouTube. He also loves jazz and performed professionally for 10-15 years.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fink has several favorite restaurants in the area. These include Albano’s Villa, Miller Pizza by the Beach, and Lakeshore Coffee.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“Michigan City’s community is valuable,” said Fink. “I’ve met a lot of people here since I moved back 15-16 years, even firefighters and police.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Throughout his programming, Fink is always very intentional about creating a collaborative learning environment where children engage and share ideas.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“I love the moment when it all clicks for the kids,” said Fink.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To learn more about Fink’s storytelling, visit \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.mclib.org\u002Fparents\u002Fstory-time\u002F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">mclib.org\u002Fparents\u002Fstory-time\u003C\u002Fa>. To learn more about his STEAM Ahead programming, visit \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.mclib.org\u002Fkids\u002Fsteam-ahead-kids\u002F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">mclib.org\u002Fkids\u002Fsteam-ahead-kids\u003C\u002Fa>. For a full list of Michigan City Public Library events visit \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.mclib.org\u002Fevents\u002F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">mclib.org\u002Fevents\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n","Dave Fink has served as the youth services librarian and assistant supervisor of the Youth Services Department at Michigan City Public Library for 15 years.\n\n\n\nFink grew up in Michigan City, but left in the mid-1990s to earn his undergraduate degree at Indiana University (IU) Bloomington, where he later earned his master’s degree as well. His studies focused on music and, prior to his career at …","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002FLITS-Dave-Fink.jpg",[394],{"id":42,"name":43,"image":44,"active":45,"type":46,"feature":6,"url":47},[396,397],{"id":261,"name":262,"image":263,"url":264},{"id":398,"name":399,"image":400,"url":401},3275,"Life in the Spotlight","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwebsite\u002Ftheme\u002Flifesite\u002Fsections\u002Ffeature-life-in-the-spotlight.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fsections\u002Ffeatures\u002Flife-in-the-spotlight\u002F",[],[404],{"id":405,"name":406,"url":407},3668,"Michigan City","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fcities\u002Fmichigan-city\u002F",[],[],[],[412],{"id":70,"name":71,"url":72,"logo":73,"logo_mini":74},{"id":414,"date":415,"title":418,"slug":419,"type":36,"content":420,"excerpt":421,"image":422,"authors":423,"sections":425,"schools":432,"cities":433,"partners":436,"locations":442,"tags":443,"sites":444,"rating":99},155917,{"time":416,"formattedDate":417},"17847","July 22, 2026","Mixsawbah State Fish Hatchery enhances La Porte County","mixsawbah-state-fish-hatchery-enhances-la-porte-county","\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Originally constructed in 1974 to aid the propagation, or breeding, of salmonids – trout and salmon – the Mixsawbah State Fish Hatchery is a key asset to La Porte County and the surrounding area fishing industry. In an area with many lakes, the fish industry is incredibly significant to the city and its local economy, which relies upon a hatchery for a portion of fish production.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the local fish hatchery are a huge piece of this industry — not only for Lake Michigan, but also our inland lake activities,” said Jack Arnett, chief executive officer (CEO) of La Porte County Convention & Visitors Bureau.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The hatchery creates four different breeds of fish through a process called artificial propagation, a process where employees at the hatchery manually mix gametes in a bucket or a tray to fertilize them. Some of the breeds include coho salmon, brown trout, Chinook salmon, and the Skamania steelhead.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To see the fish grow successfully, the hatchery waits patiently until the salmonids have hit proper weight and length milestones before transferring the fish into a new tank via nets. Transferring the fish is a careful process, as the ability to breathe is temporarily cut off as they’re moved. Speed and efficiency are top priority. If done too fast, the shock can risk impacting the well-being of the fish just as much as moving too slowly does.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Minimizing the impact on the well-being of the fish is top priority when moving them to a new home that better suits the new growth.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With the well-being of the fish in mind, the Mixsawbah State Fish Hatchery is raising funds for a reservoir that will replace the current practice of using nets to transfer fish. A reservoir would replace the use of nets for transfers, and instead introduce waterways, which will keep the fish in the water as they make their way to new homes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“The mortality rate of transferring fish with nets is much higher than transferring with a reservoir,\" said Harry Stevens, hatchery volunteer and avid fisherman. “We hope to raise enough funds to purchase this reservoir.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the area’s local fishing tournaments, the Port vs. Port tournament, is helping to raise funds to purchase the reservoir for the hatchery. The tournament is a fishing competition between La Porte County and Michigan City, and a fun way for the two areas of Northwest Indiana to showcase some lighthearted rivalry.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“We will compete against each other and fish between the two regions on Lake Michigan,” Stevens said. “I’m proud to say that La Porte County has won for the past three consecutive years.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To learn more about the Mixsawbah State Fish Hatchery visit its website \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fmichigancitylaporte.com\u002Fsee-and-do\u002Fmixsawbah-state-fish-hatchery\u002F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here\u003C\u002Fa>. To donate to the reservoir for the Mixsawbah State Fish Hatchery, call (219) 369-9591.\u003C\u002Fp>\n","Originally constructed in 1974 to aid the propagation, or breeding, of salmonids – trout and salmon – the Mixsawbah State Fish Hatchery is a key asset to La Porte County and the surrounding area fishing industry. In an area with many lakes, the fish industry is incredibly significant to the city and its local economy, which relies upon a hatchery for a portion of fish …","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002FGarretts-Feature-Image-Chain-2026-07-22T075052.265.jpg",[424],{"id":42,"name":43,"image":44,"active":45,"type":46,"feature":6,"url":47},[426,427],{"id":233,"name":234,"image":235,"url":236},{"id":428,"name":429,"image":430,"url":431},4781,"Resources","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwebsite\u002Ftheme\u002Flifesite\u002Fsections\u002Fcommunity-resources.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fsections\u002Fcommunity\u002Fresources\u002F",[],[434,435],{"id":205,"name":206,"url":207},{"id":405,"name":406,"url":407},[437],{"id":438,"name":439,"intranet_id":440,"url":441},6055,"Visit Michigan City Laporte","444","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fpartners\u002Fvisit-michigan-city-laporte\u002F",[],[],[445,446],{"id":70,"name":71,"url":72,"logo":73,"logo_mini":74},{"id":82,"name":83,"url":84,"logo":85,"logo_mini":86},{"id":448,"date":449,"title":452,"slug":453,"type":36,"content":454,"excerpt":455,"image":456,"authors":457,"sections":459,"schools":466,"cities":467,"partners":483,"locations":517,"tags":518,"sites":519,"rating":99},155732,{"time":450,"formattedDate":451},"17846","July 21, 2026","10 Fun Things To Do in Northern Indiana this weekend, July 23 – July 26","10-fun-things-to-do-in-northern-indiana-this-weekend-july-23-july-26","\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While the heat index might have impacted some days last weekend, that has not stopped organizations throughout the Region from putting together some exciting events. This includes festivals, markets, car shows, local theatre, and more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Take a look at our list of 10 Fun Things To Do in Northern Indiana this weekend and be sure to add some to your calendar!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003Cstrong>Spend your weekend on the lake with City of La Porte LakeFest\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002F82I2103-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-155736\"\u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Three days of lakeside fun await as the City of La Porte's sixth annual LakeFest returns with live music, artisan vendors, family activities, food, fitness classes, beach events, and even steamboat rides. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or stay active all weekend long, there's something for every member of the family. Don't miss LakeFest from July 24-26 in La Porte! Learn more \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flaportelakefest.com\u002F\">here\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003Cstrong>Celebrate a Region tradition with the City of Whiting Pierogi Fest\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002FIMG_5979-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-155737\"\u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whiting's beloved Pierogi Fest returns with its signature mix of delicious food, quirky entertainment, and hometown pride. From the famous Pierogi Parade and Buscia's Cooking Show to the Pierogi Toss and Eating Contest, it's a one-of-a-kind celebration unlike any other in Northwest Indiana. Be sure to experience Pierogi Fest this weekend in Whiting! Learn more \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.pierogifest.net\u002F\">here\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003Cstrong>Score on some great deals at the City of Portage Market on the Square\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002FCity-of-Portage-Market-Opening-2025-2-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-155738\"\u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spend your Friday evening exploring more than 70 local artisans, farmers, food trucks, and vendors at Portage's Market on the Square. Along with shopping, visitors can enjoy live music, a splash pad, playground, beer garden, family activities, and a free movie at dusk. Visit Market on the Square on Friday, July 24, at Founders Square! Learn more \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fportagein.gov\u002FCalendar.aspx?EID=1025\">here\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003Cstrong>Show off your sweet ride at the Town of Chesterton Downtown Cruise-In\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002FTown-of-Chesterton-hosts-Cruise-In-2025-AVicari-3-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-155739\"\u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Car enthusiasts are invited to bring their favorite vehicle to downtown Chesterton for an evening of classic cars, motorcycles, trucks, and more. The free event also features music, food, raffles, giveaways, and family-friendly fun throughout downtown. Cruise into downtown Chesterton on Saturday, July 25, from 4-8 p.m! Learn more \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Fp\u002FChesterton-Cruise-In-100063838247360\">here\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003Cstrong>Support St. Michael Parish in donating to Down Syndrome Association of NWI\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002FGarretts-Feature-Image-Chain-2026-07-17T143421.148-1024x536.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-155740\"\u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">St. Michael Parish is supporting two local nonprofits making a difference throughout Northwest Indiana: the Down Syndrome Association of Northwest Indiana and Planting Possibilities. Every donation helps fund life-changing programs while giving participants a chance to win cash prizes. Support these organizations by participating in this big event with St. Michael Parish! Learn more \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Farticle\u002Fst-michael-the-archangel-parish-to-host-annual-100000-mega-raffle\u002F\">here\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003Cstrong>Join LEAP in supporting La Porte Young Professionals Cornhole Tournament\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002FLerner-Rowe-Cornhole-Tournament-2021-35-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-155741\"\u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Grab a teammate and compete on the shores of Stone Lake during the La Porte Young Professionals LakeFest Cornhole Tournament. The tournament offers a fun day of friendly competition, a cash bar, and a great way to be part of the LakeFest festivities! Register for the tournament on Sunday, July 26! Learn more \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fmembers.laportepartnership.com\u002Fevents\u002Fdetails\u002F2026-la-porte-young-professionals-lakefest-cornhole-tournament-5326\">here\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003Cstrong>Beautify Elkhart with Native Plant Plugging Volunteer Opportunity\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Faceb80a8-1844-0a79-485b-6d14f8af3186.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-155742\"\u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Help improve High Dive Park while supporting local wildlife by volunteering to plant native species around the park's newly renovated pond. Volunteers of all experience levels are welcome, with gloves and instructions provided for a rewarding evening of community service. Join the volunteer planting event on Thursday, July 23, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Learn more \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.visitelkhartcounty.com\u002Fevents\u002F?utm_source=elkhartcountyevents_com&utm_medium=url&utm_campaign=url&imgoing-event=volunteer-opportunity-native-plug-planting-6a4e1a97fb71de33c85e7085\">here\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003Cstrong>Enjoy ballet and dance with Circus Vasquez at the Lerner Theatre\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002F66de1e69-aa8c-a903-1a79-fdf4bfcae35b.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-155743\" style=\"width:856px;height:auto\"\u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Experience an evening of ballet and dance as Circus Vasquez brings its performance to the Lerner Theatre for a series of Sunday shows. The production promises an entertaining night of movement, artistry, and live performance in downtown Elkhart. Catch the first performance on Sunday, July 26, at 7 p.m. Learn more \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.visitelkhartcounty.com\u002Fevents\u002F?utm_source=elkhartcountyevents_com&utm_medium=url&utm_campaign=url&imgoing-event=circus-vazquez-6a540d159f4f6b7d48b66e5d\">here\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003Cstrong>Test your camping skills through Luhr County Park summer camp\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002FGarretts-Feature-Image-Chain-2026-07-17T143624.347-1024x536.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-155744\"\u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Young outdoor adventurers entering grades 3-5 can learn the basics of camping through hands-on activities like shelter building, fishing, fire safety, and compass navigation. The free camp provides a fun opportunity for kids to build confidence while exploring the outdoors. Sign up for the July 21-24 summer camp at Luhr County Park! Learn more \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fmichigancitylaporte.com\u002Fevents\u002Fcamping-skills-summer-camp\u002F\">here\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003Cstrong>Immerse yourself into the La Porte Little Theatre – *Disney's Descendants: The Musical*\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002FDescendants-FB-post-PNG-940x788-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-155745\"\u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Join Mal, Evie, Jay, and Carlos as the hit Disney Channel story comes to life on stage through comedy, adventure, and memorable songs. La Porte Little Theatre's production of *Disney's Descendants: The Musical* is perfect for Disney fans and families looking for an entertaining night out. See a true Disney production come to life on the big stage! Learn more \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fmichigancitylaporte.com\u002Fevents\u002Fla-porte-little-theatre-disneys-descendants-the-musical-3\u002F\">here\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n","While the heat index might have impacted some days last weekend, that has not stopped organizations throughout the Region from putting together some exciting events. This includes festivals, markets, car shows, local theatre, and more.\n\n\n\nTake a look at our list of 10 Fun Things To Do in Northern Indiana this weekend and be sure to add some to your calendar!\n\n\n\nSpend your weekend on the lake with …","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002F10-Fun-Things-Feature-Image-July23gar.jpg",[458],{"id":110,"name":111,"image":112,"active":45,"type":113,"feature":6,"url":114},[460,461],{"id":261,"name":262,"image":263,"url":264},{"id":462,"name":463,"image":464,"url":465},8,"10 Fun Things to Do in Northern Indiana","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.greatnews.life\u002Fwebsite\u002Ftheme\u002Flifesite\u002Fsections\u002Ffeature-10-fun-things.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fsections\u002Ffeatures\u002F10-fun-things-to-do-in-nwi\u002F",[],[468,472,473,474,475,479],{"id":469,"name":470,"url":471},845,"Chesterton","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fcities\u002Fchesterton\u002F",{"id":57,"name":58,"url":59},{"id":205,"name":206,"url":207},{"id":405,"name":406,"url":407},{"id":476,"name":477,"url":478},4347,"Portage","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fcities\u002Fportage\u002F",{"id":480,"name":481,"url":482},6182,"Whiting","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fcities\u002Fwhiting\u002F",[484,485,490,491,496,501,506,511,516],{"id":210,"name":211,"intranet_id":212,"url":213},{"id":486,"name":487,"intranet_id":488,"url":489},976,"City of Portage","351","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fpartners\u002Fcity-of-portage\u002F",{"id":308,"name":309,"intranet_id":310,"url":311},{"id":492,"name":493,"intranet_id":494,"url":495},6456,"Elkhart City Parks & Recreation","514","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fpartners\u002Felkhart-city-parks-recreation\u002F",{"id":497,"name":498,"intranet_id":499,"url":500},3005,"La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership","118","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fpartners\u002Fla-porte-economic-advancement-partnership\u002F",{"id":502,"name":503,"intranet_id":504,"url":505},6530,"St. Michael the Archangel Parish","","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fpartners\u002Fst-michael-the-archangel-parish\u002F",{"id":507,"name":508,"intranet_id":509,"url":510},6458,"The Lerner Theatre","515","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fpartners\u002Fthe-lerner-theatre\u002F",{"id":512,"name":513,"intranet_id":514,"url":515},5704,"Town of Chesterton","493","https:\u002F\u002Fgreatnews.life\u002Fpartners\u002Ftown-of-chesterton\u002F",{"id":438,"name":439,"intranet_id":440,"url":441},[],[],[520,521,522,523,524],{"id":70,"name":71,"url":72,"logo":73,"logo_mini":74},{"id":76,"name":77,"url":78,"logo":79,"logo_mini":80},{"id":82,"name":83,"url":84,"logo":85,"logo_mini":86},{"id":88,"name":89,"url":90,"logo":91,"logo_mini":92},{"id":94,"name":95,"url":96,"logo":97,"logo_mini":98}]