Local News

News Release by Liberty Township Volunteer Fire Department: Liberty Township – As our community prepares to celebrate our nation’s Independence this Fourth of July, Liberty Township Volunteer Fire Department encourages everyone to enjoy the holiday safely and responsibly. This year marks a significant milestone honoring 250 years of our nation’s Independence. As the excitement builds over the next couple of days, we encourage our community to make safety a part of every tradition. Whether you’re attending a neighborhood gathering, enjoying a professional fireworks display, or hosting a backyard barbecue, a few simple precautions can help ensure everyone returns home safely.

U.S. 35/Indiana Ave has reopened between State Road 2/Lincolnway and Maple Ave in the City of La Porte after a full road reconstruction in that section. It remains closed farther south between Kingsbury Ave and South Ave so through traffic should continue to use the detour of U.S. 6, S.R. 39 and S.R. 2

La Porte, IN – The La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership (LEAP) today announced that Erik Nelson, Business Development Manager, will be leaving the organization to accept the position of Operations Director at the Northwest Indiana Forum. During his tenure at LEAP, Erik has been a valued member of the team, leading the work of the Workforce Task Force, working 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. His leadership, dedication, and commitment to excellence have made a lasting impact on the organization and

EXTREME HEAT WARNING IN EFFECT THROUGH THURSDAY EVENING...   * WHAT...Dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 105 possible. Daily high temperatures in the 90s.   * WHERE...Portions of northern Indiana, southwest Michigan, and northwest Ohio.   * WHEN...From Monday afternoon through Thursday evening.   * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events.   * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Overnight lows in the mid-70s will offer limited relief from the heat. Additionally, heat-related impacts may be heightened due to cooler than normal temperatures these past two weeks.   PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...   Drink plenty of fluids, stay

The Valparaiso Police Department recently asked the public to take a moment to review the City of Valparaiso's fireworks ordinance."Knowing and following the ordinance helps ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for everyone, VPD said on their Facebook page. "When using fireworks, please prioritize safety, be considerate of your neighbors, and remain mindful of pets, veterans, and others who may be sensitive to loud noises." See the flyer provided by VPD  to read the ordinance.  If you have any questions or concerns regarding fireworks regulations within the City of Valparaiso, contact the Valparaiso Police Department at 219-462-2135.  

In La Porte County an INDOT contractor will close U.S. 35 between County Road 400 West and Schultz Road on or after Monday, July 6. U.S. 35 will be closed for approximately one month through the first week of August for a small structure replacement. Motorists should seek alternate routes. The official detour will follow State Road 39 and U.S. 20. This work is ahead of a resurfacing project for U.S. 35 between State Road 39 and U.S. 20. The roadway will be reduced to one lane where work is ocurring with flaggers directing traffic. Paving and related construction operations

The Michigan City Area Schools Board of Trustees approved a resolution on Tuesday evening to propose a new operating referendum for the November 3, 2026 ballot. Before considering an operating referendum, MCAS spent several years carefully reviewing district operations, reducing expenses, reorganizing staffing, and responsibly managing taxpayer resources while working to protect students' educational opportunities. Those efforts have helped the district navigate financial challenges while continuing to serve students and families. Recent changes to Indiana’s school funding system, including Senate Enrolled Act 1 (SEA 1), combined with declining enrollment, property tax caps, rising operational costs, and increasing demands on school

Coast Guard and local law enforcement crews across the Great Lakes are scheduled to increase the number of boating safety patrols over the Fourth of July weekend as part of Operation Dry Water, a nationwide initiative focused on enforcing laws against boating under the influence (BUI). Alcohol is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. Boating sober is one way to make the Great Lakes safer for everyone on the water. Boating is a popular way to celebrate the holidays; however, it is important to remember boating laws. Not only is boating under the influence irresponsible, it’s illegal. Alcohol

EXTREME HEAT WARNING IN EFFECT THROUGH THURSDAY EVENING...   * WHAT...Dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 105 possible. Daily high temperatures in the 90s.   * WHERE...Portions of northern Indiana, southwest Michigan, and northwest Ohio.   * WHEN...From Monday afternoon through Thursday evening.   * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events.   * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Overnight lows in the mid-70s will offer limited relief from the heat. Additionally, heat-related impacts may be heightened due to cooler than normal temperatures these past two weeks.   PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...   Drink plenty of fluids, stay

Stop by 219 TAPROOM in Chesterton for WONDERFUL Food, Service, Fun and Entertainment. Check out their Family-Friendly Atmosphere and stay up to date with the latest by LIKING their FACEBOOK page. Service options: Outdoor seating · Live music · Trivia night. Their address is 109 S 3rd St, in Chesterton. Call (219) 728-1381. #wims #whfb #chesterton #duneland

Due to the extreme heat forecast for this week, the Michigan City Refuse Department will begin its collection routes at 6:00 a.m. instead of the usual 7:00 a.m. today, Thursday and Friday this week. Residents and businesses are asked to place their trash toters at the curb before 6:00 a.m. on those days to ensure collection. The temporary schedule change is intended to help protect Refuse Department employees from prolonged exposure to dangerously high temperatures while maintaining regular collection service.

Michigan City, IN --- The Michigan City Sanitary District would like to inform the public and the media that there will be a Special Meeting followed by a Public Hearing of the Sanitary District Board of Commissioners for July 9, 2026 , at 5:00 P.M. local time in the Council Chambers of City Hall 100 E. Michigan Blvd., Michigan City, Indiana 46360. All questions should be directed to Wendy Vachet at 219.873-1400.    

News Release, Duneland Chamber of Commerce: ENJOY THE PORTER 4TH OF JULY FESTIVAL AS WE CELEBRATE AMERICA’S 250TH BIRTHDAY! The Chesterton-Porter Rotary Club 4th Fest will be more fun that ever this year. The festivities begin with the Lions Club Pancake Breakfast from 7 a.m. until noon at Hawthorne Park, followed by the Annual 4th of July Parade that kicks off at 9 a.m. from Yost School. We are honored to announce that Gene Chemma is this year’s Parade Grand Marshal. There is no charge for admission to the day’s events! Contests include the Turtle Derby at 11 a.m. (registration

Food Bank of Northern Indiana Mobile Food Distributions for July 2026   Wednesday, July 1, 2026 – Elkhart County 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. ET *While supplies last. Where: West Goshen Elementary, 215 Dewey Ave., Goshen, IN 46526 *This distribution is sponsored by Morgan Stanley and will serve 150 households.   Thursday, July 2, 2026 – Elkhart County 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. ET *While supplies last. Where: Northside Baptist Church, 53198 County Road 9, Elkhart, IN 46514 *This distribution is sponsored by Kroger and will serve 200 households.   Wednesday, July 8, 2026 – La Porte County 10 a.m.

Extreme summer heat is expected across Indiana over the next several days. Cooling centers will be open throughout the state for those in need of a safe and cool place to stay. Indiana 211 is your trusted resource for an up-to-date, searchable list of cooling center locations and hours in your area. To find a cooling center near you, visit IN211.org. To report, update or add a cooling center location, contact the Indiana 211 resource team at in211database@fssa.in.gov. Social Media Message: Please partner with Indiana 211 to ensure Hoosiers know how to locate cooling centers in their community. Share the

Extreme heat occurs when temperatures reach 90 degrees Fahrenheit or higher for at least two to three days. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reports 2024 was the warmest year on record globally, and there is a worldwide trend of warmer than average temperatures. Overexposure to heat can be hazardous, and the humid conditions frequently experienced in Indiana can add to the discomfort and danger of high temperatures.   EXTREME HEATSAFETY TIPS WATCH VS. WARNING • Excessive Heat Watch: Issued when conditions are conducive for dangerous heat conditions within the next 24 to 72 hours. • Excessive Heat Warning: Issued

EXTREME HEAT WARNING THROUGH THURSDAY EVENING   * WHAT...Dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 105 possible. Daily high temperatures in the 90s.   * WHERE...Portions of northern Indiana, southwest Michigan, and northwest Ohio.   * WHEN...NOW through Thursday evening.   * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events.   * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Overnight lows in the mid-70s will offer limited relief from the heat. Additionally, heat-related impacts may be heightened due to cooler than normal temperatures these past two weeks.   PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...   Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room,

The Duneland Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the winners of their Annual Community Awards. This event is taking place from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm on Thursday, July 16 at the Spa Special Events Center in Porter, IN. Everyone is welcome to join us in celebrating the remarkable contributions of organizations, businesses, and individuals within the Duneland community. Award Categories and Honorees are as follows: New Construction Award: CIT Trucks Business Renovation Awards: Beaches & Beyond Gift Shop, Chesterton Art Center, Chesterton Town Hall & Chesterton Fire Department, EMPATH Wellness, Gallery 1882, Hard Rock Concrete Cutters Putting Duneland

The City of Michigan City is reminding residents that an extreme heat warning is in effect now through 7 P.M. Thursday. Extended periods of dangerously hot conditions with daily temperatures in the 90s and high humidity levels are expected. Heat index values could reach up to 105 degrees during this time. With extreme heat and humidity expected over the next few days, Mayor Angie would like to remind citizens of cooling centers located within the City of Michigan City. Cooling centers will be available at the following locations: 1. Michigan City Police Station-1201 E. Michigan Blvd. (Open 24 hours) 2.

Members of the La Porte County Sheriff's Office, Michigan City Police Department and La Porte City Police Department K-9 Units came together to organize an online “Sammy Strong” apparel fundraiser to show our community’s continued support for Deputy Samuelson during his recovery. The fundraiser features K-9-inspired apparel, including men’s, women’s, youth, dri-fit shirts, and hoodies. Since launching earlier this month, the response from our community has been overwhelming, and we’re incredibly grateful. We’re hoping to continue that momentum by reaching those who may not have heard about the fundraiser yet and would still like an opportunity to participate. All proceeds