95.1 FM/AM 1420 WIMS

11/17/2024

LCSO increasing patrols during Thanksgiving travel period

As people begin to plan for Thanksgiving holiday travel, the La Porte County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) is preparing to increase patrol visibility as part of the annual Safe Family Travel campaign.

The campaign, which starts November 16, focuses on impaired driving, aggressive driving, and proper use of seat belts. During the campaign, deputies will conduct saturation patrols designed to discourage impaired driving and promote seat belt usage. The high-visibility enforcement campaign is funded with grants provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and administered through the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI).

“We’re anticipating another busy travel season this year, so for those sharing the road, remember; slow down, avoid distractions while driving, designate a sober driver, and buckle up,” said Devon McDonald, ICJI Executive Director. “We want everyone to make it to their holiday events safely.”

According to NHTSA, alcohol-impaired driving has tragically become associated with Thanksgiving Eve, with some people turning it into a night of drinking. Drivers who intend on consuming alcohol that evening should plan ahead and secure a designated sober driver.

“When you get on the road, you are pledging to use safe driving practices to keep all road users safe,” said Captain Derek J. Allen. “Anyone planning on visiting a tavern or a party must make a commitment to stay sober for the night if they plan on driving.”

It is also important to wear a seat belt, put away the distractions and follow posted speed limits. Travelers are encouraged to check road conditions before each trip and to leave with plenty of time to reach their destination safely.

“Whether you’re driving cross-country or across the street, it is essential that both drivers and passengers wear a seat belt, no matter the type of vehicle,” said Jim Bryan, ICJI’s Traffic Safety Director. “This Thanksgiving, and every day of the year, remember to buckle up.”

Motorists are encouraged to call 911 if they encounter an impaired or unsafe driver on the road.

Visit www.cji.in.gov for more information.

11/16/2024

Portage resident dies after being struck by vehicles in Porter County

A Portage resident has died after being struck by multiple vehicles at the intersection of US 20 and Samuelson Road, according to the Portage Police Department.

On Wednesday Nov. 13, at around 5:37 p.m., officers of the Portage Police Department responded to the intersection of U.S. Highway 20 and Samuelson Road in reference to a report that a pedestrian was struck by a motor vehicle. The initial investigation shows that a pedestrian was walking northbound just west of the intersection when he was struck by a westbound sports utility vehicle. Police say the initial impact threw the victim into the eastbound lanes where he was struck by two eastbound vehicles.
All of the involved drivers reported the incident to law enforcement and cooperated with investigators. There is no indication that any of the involved motorists were under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Police say that at the time of the crash, it was dark, visibility was low due to rainfall, and the victim was wearing all dark clothing. Police do not believe any of the drivers will face criminal charges related to this accident.

U.S. Highway 20 was closed to all traffic between Samuelson Road and Jensen Drive until 8:50p.m. while the department’s Crash Reconstruction Team conducted their investigation.

The deceased is a 65-year-old resident of Portage, IN.

His toxicology report is pending. The deceased’s identification is still being withheld while the Coroner’s Office attempts to locate next of kin.

11/16/2024

Indiana set to celebrate 49th “Great American Smokeout”

(Porter County, IN) – In celebration of the American Cancer Society’s 48th Great American Smokeout on Nov. 21st, Hoosiers across Indiana are encouraged to “make the commitment and quit smoking today”.

“With the holidays just around the corner, it’s a great time for people to give the ‘gift’ of a better life to themselves and to their family and friends by quitting. With fewer places to smoke in Indiana, now is the perfect time to quit,” said Carrie Higgins, Program Director of The To***co Education and Prevention Coalition for Porter County.

To***co use continues to be the leading cause of early death and disease in the United States and leads to over 11,000 deaths annually in Indiana. Indiana’s rate of adult smoking rate and use of e-cigarettes remain higher that the national average. For any smokers in Indiana who want to quit, including those that v**e e-cigarettes, help is available and there’s no better time to quit than now, according to Higgins.

The free Indiana To***co Quitline – 1-800-QUIT-NOW – is available seven days a week, 365 days a year to provide tips and counseling on how to quit for any Indiana resident.

“The Quitline is staffed with professional ‘quit’ coaches, who are trained on helping people to quit using to***co, as well as free Ni****ne Replacement Therapy for many adults. It’s a free resource and it’s a great first step in treating what we know is a difficult addiction to overcome,” added Higgins.

Giving up smoking is a journey, and it can be hard, but you can increase your chances of success with a good plan and support. Success may look different for different people. There are many ways to quit smoking, and some work better than others. Getting help through counseling and medications doubles or even triples your chances of quitting successfully.
“It may be surprising to most people that the effects of stopping smoking are almost immediate; a person’s heart rate and blood pressure drop just 20 minutes after quitting,” explained Higgins.
According to Higgins, quitting smoking is critical to improving one’s life at a time when to***co use remains the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in the world.

“Whether you’re trying to quit or even thinking about it, the Great American Smokeout is a great time to think about living a healthier life. It may be a challenging path, but it will be worthwhile for a lifetime,” added Higgins.
Free resources are available by calling 1-800-QUITNOW (1-800-784-8669), texting “READY” to 34191 or by visiting Quitnowindiana.com. Visit the local coalition webpage for additional information and resources at valpo.edu/tepc.

11/16/2024

One person injured after shooting in Michigan City

Michigan City police are investigating a shooting that left one person injured on Thursday. At around 9:30 p.m. Thursday officers responded to the 700 block of East 10th Street for shots that were fired in the area. Officers arrived and learned multiple people fled the area on foot and in vehicles. No victim was found at the scene.

Shortly after the call, a victim drove their vehicle to Michigan City Police Department and met with officers. Officers discovered that the vehicle was shot numerous times, and the victim had a gunshot wound to the leg. The victim was transported to Franciscan with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to the leg.

Detectives were called to the scene to assist and continue to interview witnesses, attempt to identify any suspects, search for video surveillance in the area and process evidence collected at the scene.

The Michigan City Police Department would ask anyone that may have witnessed this incident, has any additional information, or has video surveillance / cell phone video of this incident, to contact Sergeant Melissa Sopher at (219) 874-3221 Ext. 1049, email [email protected].

The department would also like to remind the public that you can contact them via Facebook Messenger, through their crime tip hotline number of 219-873-1488, or you can also call the WeTip Hotline for General Crime (800) 78-CRIME and possibly receive a reward upon an arrest and conviction. All WeTip call information is sent directly to the LaPorte County Prosecutor’s Office. Police say you can always request to remain anonymous.

11/16/2024

Members of Porter County Sheriff’s Office graduate from leadership program

Several members of the Porter County Sheriff’s Office on Tuesday graduated from the National Command and Staff College – West Point Leadership Program.

The ceremony was hosted by Indiana Sheriffs’ Association in Plainfield, IN.

The most recent graduates are:

Jail Commander Steve Lawrence
Jail Assistant Commander Ryan Taylor
Jail Captain Ryan Williams
Major Gary Gear
Investigations Commander Eric Jones
PCMEG Captain Matt Edwards
Patrol Corporal Nick Brown
PIO Sergeant Ben McFalls

In total, the Porter County Sheriff’s Office now has 11 officers that have graduated from this Leadership program across the agency.

11/16/2024

State Prison redevelopment plan update

MICHIGAN CITY, Ind. – The Indiana State Prison site redevelopment process has kicked off with the gathering of the advisory council members and outline of initial agenda items.

“It’s a monumental moment for our city as we begin addressing what’s next for the prison site,” Michigan City Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch said. “We look forward to having our community members, leaders and industry experts guide the conversation, spark ideas and lay out a foundation for the future.”

In August, a collection of industry leaders was approved to develop a master plan and design as part of the ISP Redevelopment Strategy. Farr Associates, McKenna, Zimmerman-Volk Associates and Sam Schwartz are bringing a combined level of expertise to analyze, develop, plan, design and present recommendations for the property.

At the recent meeting, the advisory council members were introduced and connected to launch the planning. Members include:

Mayor Nelson Deuitch
Antonio Conley, Michigan City Planning Commission, Vibrant Michigan City, Temerity Store
Daisy Lee, Michigan City Common Council
Tim Bietry, Michigan City Common Council
Amandula Anderson, Community Development & Housing Expert, IFF
Bill Taft, Economic Development Expert, LISC
Vince Ash, State Economic Development Liaison, IEDC
Sheila Matias, Michigan City Redevelopment Commission
Randy Novak, LaPorte County Government
Stephanie Oberlie, EDCMC Liaison, Harbour Trust & Investment Management
Tina Mahone, Resident, Vibrant Michigan City, New Hope Missionary Baptist Church
Tristan Smith, Urban Enterprise Association
Pastor Kimberly Williams, NWI Ministerial Conference, New Disciple Love Fellowship Church
Deshawn Gordon, Resident
Kurtess Gillespie, Resident, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group
Erica Miller, Resident, Vibrant Michigan City, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group
Beyond introductions, the discussion led to what advisory council members seek for the new site as well as what forms both community and stakeholder engagement will take to make the most of the process.

“Having everyone together allowed us to ignite passion for the project and outline what is needed and what is to be expected as we undertake and embrace this huge opportunity,” said EDCMC Executive Director Clarence L. Hulse.

Moving forward, Farr Associates and their team are putting together case studies of similar projects from around the country for comparison and insight, overviewing what are the current conditions around the site that make an impact on the final plan and creating a market analysis.

Doug Farr, FAIA, LEED AP, CNU-A, President, Farr Associates Architecture & Urban Design, said having community input is vital to developing an overall solid strategy.

“Our goal is to try to engage as many people as possible. We plan to robustly engage the public both virtually and in person. We start by interviewing a short list of stakeholders with unique and relevant insights: prison staff, city officials, the development community, neighbors, etc.,” he said. “We will hold public workshops devoted to brainstorming, design and developing a final plan. The face-to-face process will be complemented with virtual meeting options and supported by a project website.”

The Indiana Department of Correction announced in August 2023 that the prison would close after the completion of a new 4,200 bed facility on the Westville Correctional Facility campus. The new prison will replace both facilities.

The EDCMC was awarded READI 1.0 funds to study the reuse of the site during the first round of funding from the state. The Regional Acceleration and Development Initiative program is funding initiatives and projects throughout the state to impact Hoosiers’ quality of life.

Launched by Gov. Holcomb and led by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), READI encourages regional collaboration and data-driven, long-term planning that will attract and retain talent in Indiana. The $500 million READI fund was passed by legislation during the 2021 session and was divided among 17 regions.

# # #

The Economic Development Corporation Michigan City is committed to growing and attracting new industry and business to the community as well as strengthening existing business. EDCMC services, programs, and one-on-one assistance clearly provide the optimum business environment — a place where commerce and industry can prosper and grow. EDCMC merges the right mix of resources, including city government, community members, and the expertise of business leaders. Exclusive incentive packages and unique natural resources make Michigan City, Indiana, the place to build or expand.

For more information, call (219) 873-1211 or Economic Development Corporation Michigan City, Indianaichigan City, Indiana Angie Nelson Deuitch

11/16/2024

Here is your Saturday forecast-make it a great day

Today Mostly sunny, with a high near 57.

Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 45.

Sunday A slight chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 60.

11/16/2024

INDOT to host public information meetings for next phase of ProPEL US 30 and US 31 studies

The Indiana Department of Transportation will host seven public information meetings as it continues its Planning and Environment Linkage (PEL) studies along the US 30 and US 31 corridors in northern Indiana. The purpose of the meetings is to share potential improvement packages at primary and secondary intersections, which are detailed in each study’s Draft Level 3 Screening Report. Draft reports are now available for viewing on the ProPEL US 30 and ProPEL US 31 study websites.

The studies span 180 miles across 12 counties and include US 30 from Valparaiso to the Indiana/Ohio state line (excluding I-69 and I-469 around Fort Wayne), as well as US 31 between Hamilton County and Plymouth (excluding the Kokomo bypass). Counties within the study area include Allen, Fulton, Hamilton, Howard, Kosciusko, LaPorte, Marshall, Miami, Porter, Starke, Tipton, and Whitley.

During a PEL study, INDOT engages the public early in the planning process – before project scopes are known. Public feedback is vital to the success of the study and will help inform future potential solutions that will guide the next 20-plus years of transportation investments. In-person public information meetings will be held in each of the four study areas. Virtual meetings will be available for those unable to attend on each study’s website.

US 30 West:

Wednesday, November 13, 2024
5 – 7 p.m. CST (presentation at 5:30 p.m.)
Tri-Township Schools
309 School Drive
Wanatah, IN 46390

Thursday, November 14, 2024
5 – 7 p.m. EST (presentation at 5:30 p.m.)
Plymouth High School
1 Big Red Drive
Plymouth, IN 46563

Virtual meeting available November 14 at ProPELUS30.com

US 30 East:

Tuesday, November 19, 2024
5 – 7 p.m. EST (presentation at 5:30 p.m.)
Indian Springs Middle School
1692 S. SR 9
Columbia City, IN 46725

Wednesday, November 20, 2024
5 – 7 p.m. EST (presentation at 5:30 p.m.)
Lincoln Elementary School
203 N. Lincoln St.
Warsaw, IN 46580

Virtual meeting available November 20 at ProPELUS30.com

US 31 North:

Monday, November 18, 2024
5 – 7 p.m. EST (presentation at 5:30 p.m.)
Rochester Community High School
1645 S. Park Road
Rochester, IN 46975

Virtual meeting available November 19 at ProPELUS31.com

US 31 South:

Thursday, November 14, 2024
5 – 7 p.m. EST (presentation at 5:30 p.m.)
Tipton County Fairgrounds Auditorium
1200 S. Main Street
Tipton, IN 46072

Tuesday, November 19, 2024
5 – 7 p.m. EST (presentation at 5:30 p.m.)
Peru High School
401 N. Broadway Street
Peru, IN 46970

Virtual meeting available November 15 at ProPELUS31.com
The public may provide comments online, in-person at public meetings, by phone and via mail through December 13, 2024.

11/15/2024

Rotary Club Presents Annual Service Above Self Award

The Rotary Club of Michigan City will honor six individuals from the community with the annual Service Above Self Award on Thursday, November 14.

This year’s recipients include: Corporal Mark Galetti, MCPD Police Officer of the Year; Cadet Corporal Mercedes White, JROTC Cadet of the Year; Sergeant Braxton Bradbury, Correctional Officer of the Year; Tyler Kreighbaum, MCFD Firefighter of the Year; Daisy Lee, MCAS Teacher of the Year; and Dexter Watkins, La Porte County EMT/Paramedic of the Year.

Awards will be presented during an event that is open to the public at The Salvation Army of Michigan City, 1201 S. Franklin Street, Michigan City. Doors open at 8am and the program will start at 8:30am. Breakfast will be served, and a donation of $15 per person is encouraged.

The Rotary Club of Michigan City presents the Service Above Self Awards to first responders, an educator, and a JROTC student every year to recognize those in the community who embody the club’s motto of “Service Above Self.”

“Rotarians around the world adhere to this motto and we appreciate others who also prioritize service to the community,” said Marty Corley, Rotary award committee chair. “The individuals we are recognizing this year have gone above and beyond to serve through volunteerism, humanitarian work, and commitment to helping others through their profession.”

This event is sponsored by General Insurance Services.

The Rotary Club of Michigan City meets every Thursday at noon at The Salvation Army of Michigan City. A different guest speaker attends each meeting, and the club completes several service projects throughout the year. Guests are welcome to attend club meetings. More information about the Rotary Club of Michigan City is available by visiting www.mcrotary.org or by following the club on Facebook. The Rotary Club of Michigan City, IN Michigan City Police Department

11/15/2024

Marquette Makes Contribution to Franciscan Health Foundation

Marquette Catholic High School is proud to have continued its partnership with Franciscan Health Foundation this past October in raising money for breast cancer patients in and around LaPorte County.

This year, Marquette’s National Honor Society chapter and volleyball program generated $1,026, 100% of which will go directly to local cases in the form of items such as blankets, groceries, and transportation assistance.

Franciscan Breast Cancer Nurse Navigator Amy Johnson and Director of Development Deb Tatum were on hand to accept the check from representatives from both school organizations.

Marquette paired a National Honor Society-sponsored Dress Down Day with its annual “Dig Pink” volleyball match on October 2nd to accumulate $1,026.00.

This marks the second consecutive October in which Marquette teamed up with Franciscan Health Foundation in keeping local the funds it raised.

Marquette was represented by National Honor Society president Alexandria Sierra ’25 and Elaina ’25 and Livia ’25 Balling – both members of the school’s volleyball team.

“National Honor Society is founded upon four essential principles, one of which is service. We have an obligation to serve and support our community. The reality is one in eight women have been diagnosed with breast cancer, so this is very personal and important to the students here at Marquette. We want to show our support for people who have been diagnosed with it as well as the healthcare workers who work diligently in order to bring comfort to patients. We want our community to know that Marquette will always stand with you,” Sierra said.

Marquette wishes to thank all who participated in this year’s breast cancer fundraiser and extends its prayers and well wishes to the brave individuals fighting the disease near and far. Marquette Catholic High School Franciscan Health

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11/15/2024

La Porte County Sheriff Ron Heeg back on WIMS and on the air right now until 9a

Sheriff Ron Heeg with La Porte County Sheriff's Office back on WIMS for another installment of "Sheriff's Squawk". Today we will talk about Veteran's Day , Scams, K-9, Leadership La Porte County, and so much more. You can listen on AM 1420, 95.1FM, 106.7FMValparaiso and the listen live feature on wimsradio.com. La Porte County Sheriff's Office

11/15/2024

Check out what is happening at the Schoolhouse Shop of Furnessville with all of your Fall to Winter essentials. There’s something for everyone at the Schoolhouse Shop. They are located at 278 E. CR-1500 North. Call at 219-926-1551 or visit www.schoolhouseshop.net.

🍂❄️ From the crunch of autumn leaves to the first snowflake's touch, the Schoolhouse Shop has all your fall-to-winter essentials. Wrap up in our cozy clothing and find unique gifts to warm hearts.

11/15/2024

Duneland Chamber of Commerce back at WIMS and on the air right now-FESTIVE FUN. We stream at wimsradio.com.

Rachel and Cathi with the Duneland Chamber of Commerce back at WIMS. Today we chat about Hometown Holiday Celebration and Mistletoe Market. Check out their website at www.dunelandchamber.org. Call 219-926-5513. Rachel Campbell

11/15/2024

Ben, Brad, and Nate are on the air here at WIMS and on the air right NOW through 7a-You can view the entire interview on WIMS FACEBOOK under the video section.

Ben Konowitz, Nate Loucks, Bradford Oman in studio at WIMS to chat about PRANCER PALOOZA at the La Porte Civic Auditorium Sunday December 15th and so much more. THE EVENT IS SOLD OUT-keep listening for yor chance to win tickets starting Monday. Check out events at www.laportecivicauditorium.com. Plus local events and concerts under the events tab on wimsradio.com. You can listen on AM 1420, 95.1FM, 106.7FMValparaiso and the listen live feature on wimsradio.com. The City of La Porte Brett Binversie Tom Dermody

11/15/2024

Here is your Friday forecast-have a great weekend

Today Mostly sunny, with a high near 55.

Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 39.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 57.

Saturday Night A 20 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 45.

11/15/2024

MICHIGAN CITY RESIDENTS-
The Michigan City Street Department will lay asphalt at the intersection of Tilden Avenue and Gardena Street on Friday, Nov. 15. Please be cautious of the workers and adjust your travel plans accordingly. Thank you.

11/14/2024

Michigan City High School MCHS honors the U.S. Marine Corps

Press Release, Michigan City High School MCJROTC:

The United States Marine Corps turned 249 on November 10th. Its motto is “Semper Fidelis”- Always Faithful. The heart of the Marine Corps’ success is that it has undertaken every mission based on its core values of honor, courage and commitment. Those values are also the driving force behind the Michigan City High School (MCHS) Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (MCJROTC). The cadets honored the Marine Corps with a ceremony on November 8th at the St. Joseph’s Men’s Club in Michigan City. It was the same ceremony that Marines world-wide conduct as they remember the Marines who have served with honor, and the responsibility that those who currently serve have to uphold the Marine traditions.

“The Marine Corps’ core values are not just words to our cadets,” said Senior Marine Instructor Major Tom McGrath. “They are committed to upholding the traditions that have kept our nation strong through good times and when we have faced adversity.” McGrath was referring to the many ceremonies the cadets conducted to honor our nation’s veterans. They conducted a ceremony for residents of the Life Care Center, and will conduct ceremonies at the Skwiat American Legion Post and the Marine Corps League. The cadets, along with the MCHS Band and Choir, also will conduct a modified military parade on Veterans Day for the students of the school in addition to local veterans.

Master Sergeant Jeff Benak, the Marine Instructor, complimented the cadets on how well they prepared themselves for these many patriotic events. “Our cadets know the importance of honoring our veterans and to continue to foster the spirit of patriotism that is so important to the future of our nation.”

Besides those ceremonies, MCHS will be hosting a military drill competition on November 16th. Schools from Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Romeoville, and Portage will compete. The Wolves will travel to Portage to compete in their meet on December 7th. That night, the cadets will march in the Michigan City Festival of Lights parade. They will be assisting in the set-up, traffic flow, and clean-up of the Michigan City Area Schools One City One Sound concert on December 12th. They will close out the calendar year by supporting the Salvation Army in their food and toy drives. Michigan City Area Schools

11/14/2024

Here is the latest from Ott Haverstock Funeral Chapel and Cremation Services in Michigan City about Walter J. Binder, Jr. and Susan Jane Retseck,

Walter J. Binder, Jr.
November 4, 1937 - November 10, 2024

Walter Joseph Binder, Jr., a resident of Long Beach, Indiana, passed peacefully into eternity on Sunday morning, November 10, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, November 16, 2024 at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 1010 Moore Road, Long Beach, Indiana with Rev. Jaunius Kelpsa officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until time of mass Saturday at the church. The Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel, Michigan City, IN is handling the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Friendship Botanic Gardens, https://friendshipbotanicgardens.org/support-us/ and/or La Porte County Symphony Orchestra, https://lcso.net/sponsor-us/.

To sign a guest book and leave condolences online visit our website at www.otthaverstock.com. La Porte County Symphony Orchestra Friendship Botanic Gardens

************************************************************
Susan Jane Retseck, 85, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 11, 2024, at her home, following loving farewells to family and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am, Thursday, November 21, 2024 at St. Mary the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Buffalo & 10th Streets, Michigan City, Indiana with Rev. Pat Gaza and Rev. Walter Rakoczy officiating. Entombment will follow in Greenwood Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 pm -7:00 pm, Wednesday and from 8:30 am - 9:30 am Thursday at the Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel, 418 Washington St., Michigan City, IN.

Contributions may be made to St. Mary the Immaculate Conception Church, 411 W. 11th St., Michigan City, IN, 46360, or to Indiana Lions Cancer Control Fund, 8780 Purdue Road, Suite #10, Indianapolis, IN 46268.

To sign a guest book and leave condolences online visit our web site at www.otthaverstock.com.