The Regional News, 16 E Main Street, La Crosse, IN (2025)

12/05/2025

Winter has certainly made an early and dramatic entrance in Northwest Indiana! In this week's edition of The Regional News, we are covering the record-breaking snow and plunging temperatures that gripped the region over Thanksgiving weekend, alongside the latest updates on the "freezing fog" advisory. But despite the cold, our community's heart remains warm. We have wonderful feature stories this week, including the South Central Softball Team spreading holiday cheer by taking local children shopping, and a heartwarming report on the inaugural Turkey Trot that raised over $3,300 to pay off student lunch deficits at South Central schools.

We are also diving deep into local and state government news. Read about the controversial advancement of new congressional maps by an Indiana House panel, and meet Jennifer Heath, who was just selected to fill the vacancy on the La Porte County Council District 2 seat. Plus, we have a major update on the historic LaCrosse High School building as a nonprofit prepares to acquire it, and we are tracking a massive cheese recall affecting shoppers at Walmart, Target, and Aldi.

From local sports scores to holiday events like the Historic Candlelight Tour and Pioneerland Christmas Open House, we have you covered. Find The Regional News at your local retailer today, including in Wanatah at Casey’s or Dollar General, in Westville at the Casey's General Store, the Family Express, Dollar General, or BP, in LaCrosse at the Dollar General, BP, or LaCrosse Public Library, and in the Kouts Family Express.

You can also enjoy the convenience of having The Regional News delivered right to your door. This isn’t your Facebook newsfeed. For just $45 a year—only 87¢ a week—you'll receive over 500 pages of in-depth local coverage for Southern LaPorte County. Subscribe today by visiting https://kielmedia.com/shop/. 📰

12/04/2025

The Regional News would like to offer its condolences to the family and friends of Jens Hagenow.

Jens Herbert Hagenow, 88, died Saturday, November 22, surrounded by his loving family at his home in Greenwood, Indiana.

He is survived by his wife, Betty; daughters Pam Smith (Doug) and Tammy Mason (Tom), and son Jay; his grandchildren Madeline Mason, Austin Smith, Abby Smith, and Alex Mason; and his sister Elaine Kohl and brother Paul Hagenow.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Elizabeth Hagenow, and brothers Bob Hagenow and Phil Hagenow.

Jens was born in La Porte, Indiana, and grew up on his family’s dairy farm in Westville, Indiana. He graduated from Clinton Township High School in 1955 and served in the Navy for two years at Naval Air Station Kingsville in Texas. He married Betty Hildebrand on June 17, 1961.

Jens held several dairy farm-related jobs, including milk tester, artificial inseminator, and herd manager, but the majority of his life was spent as a dairy and grain farmer at his farm in LaCrosse, Indiana, which he and Betty purchased in 1968.

In his later years, Jens took his whole family on trips west to Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks. The latter was chosen because he wanted his grandchildren to see glaciers before they disappeared. Not well known was Jens’ love of baking, which sprang from his desire to eat cookies. For many years, he assisted his children in baking hundreds of Christmas cookies, which were distributed to family and friends. He even created his signature cookie, the Jens’ Jumble. In his last years, Jens loved feeding the birds at the feeders, gardening, and chopping up plants for the compost pile.

A private Celebration of Life is being planned for a later date. Those wanting to make a memorial donation are urged to contact St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Follow this link: https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?sc_icid=header-btn-donate-now.

12/02/2025

🎅 Santa Claus is Coming to WANATAH! 🍿

Bundle up for a magical evening at Hunt Park this Saturday! ✨

The Town of WANATAH is kicking off the holidays with a FREE celebration featuring a visit from the Big Man himself!

🗓️ When: Saturday, December 6, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
📍 Where: Hunt Park (401 West Cross Street)

Bring the whole family to enjoy:
• Meet-and-greets with Santa and other fun guests! 🎁
• A beautiful live nativity scene. 🌟
• An outdoor holiday movie. 🎬
• Free treats including hot chocolate, popcorn, and goodie bags! ☕

This heartwarming, family-friendly event is made possible entirely by the generous donations of local businesses and community members. Remember to bundle up for the outdoor fun!

📰 Stay in the know by reading The Regional News, sold at your local retailer today, including in Wanatah at Casey’s or Dollar General, in Westville at the Casey's General Store, the Family Express, Dollar General, or BP, in LaCrosse at the Dollar General, BP, or LaCrosse Public Library, and in the Kouts Family Express.

You can also enjoy the convenience of having The Regional News delivered right to your door. This isn’t your Facebook newsfeed. For just $45 a year—only 87¢ a week—you'll receive over 500 pages of in-depth local coverage for Southern LaPorte County. Subscribe today by visiting https://kielmedia.com/shop/. 📰

12/02/2025

🦌 Santa and Live Reindeer are Coming to Town! 🎅

LA PORTE — Get ready for a magical evening! The La Porte County Park Department is kicking off the holiday season with the "Santa's Reindeer" event at Luhr County Park!

Bring the whole family to meet Santa Claus and see a real, live reindeer in person!

When: Friday, December 5, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Where: Luhr County Park (3178 S 150 W, La Porte)

The FREE evening includes:
• Meet-and-greet with Santa and his Reindeer.
• Live holiday music by the La Porte County Symphony Orchestra.
• Games and an opportunity to learn about the history of reindeer.
• A unique Christmas movie-themed glow-in-the-dark night hike as the sun sets!

Don't miss out on this fantastic start to your holiday season!

The event is supported by sponsors including the Antero Group, Rieth-Riley, and the La Porte County Public Library.

📰 Stay in the know by reading The Regional News, sold at your local retailer today, including in Wanatah at Casey’s or Dollar General, in Westville at the Casey's General Store, the Family Express, Dollar General, or BP, in LaCrosse at the Dollar General, BP, or LaCrosse Public Library, and in the Kouts Family Express.

You can also enjoy the convenience of having The Regional News delivered right to your door. This isn’t your Facebook newsfeed. For just $45 a year—only 87¢ a week—you'll receive over 500 pages of in-depth local coverage for Southern LaPorte County. Subscribe today by visiting https://kielmedia.com/shop/. 📰

12/02/2025

The Regional News would like to offer its condolences to the family and friends of Terri Hanna.

Terri Hanna, 77, of Wanatah, passed away on Thursday, November 20, 2025. She was born on May 25, 1948, in Fort Stockton, Texas, the daughter of Lindell “Lynn” and Betty Jean (Smith) Tolliver. Terri made her career of 23 years at Lock Joint Tube, retiring in 2013. She was a quiet person who enjoyed family time, lunches with friends and family, and making her great-granddaughters smile. Terri also enjoyed reading, working puzzles, doing diamond art, and playing with her cats. She was an avid animal lover, especially CATS! Oh, how she loved her cats. Terri was a member of Alley Cat Allies, Tiger Haven, Defenders of Wildlife, International Fund for Animal Welfare, and World Wildlife Fund.

On August 26, 1983, Terri married Andrew R. “Cat Man” Hanna, who preceded her in death on February 4, 2024. She is survived by her only son, Jay (Tina Gorski-Costello) Wright of Wanatah; grandson, Stephen Costello of Valparaiso; granddaughter, Amanda Costello of Union Mills; and 5 great-granddaughters, Riley Dodd, Lilly Costello, Charlette Costello, Vivalynn Costello, and Aleah Claypool. Terri was also preceded in death by her father, Lindell, on May 25, 1978, and her mother, Betty Jean, on May 17, 2020.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to a local animal shelter. Moeller Funeral Home, Valparaiso, is entrusted with arrangements.

12/01/2025

Mark your calendars! 🗓️ The beloved Giese Church—a La Porte holiday tradition since 1947—is opening its doors for a special evening.

Did you know this mechanical miniature church was built by Otto Giese as the fulfillment of a solemn promise he made while serving in the Battle of the Bulge during WWII? Come witness this incredible history brought to life!

Join the La Porte County Historical Society Museum for a magical evening perfect for starting or continuing your family tradition. Admission is by donation.

✨ NIGHT AT THE GIESE CHURCH ✨

Date: Saturday, December 20, 2025

Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Where: La Porte County Historical Society Museum (2405 Indiana Ave, La Porte)

Bonus: Enjoy complimentary hot cocoa and cookies! ☕🍪

📰 Stay in the know by reading The Regional News, sold at your local retailer today, including in Wanatah at Casey’s or Dollar General, in Westville at the Casey's General Store, the Family Express, Dollar General, or BP, in LaCrosse at the Dollar General, BP, or LaCrosse Public Library, and in the Kouts Family Express.

You can also enjoy the convenience of having The Regional News delivered right to your door. This isn’t your Facebook newsfeed. For just $45 a year—only 87¢ a week—you'll receive over 500 pages of in-depth local coverage for Southern LaPorte County. Subscribe today by visiting https://kielmedia.com/shop/. 📰

11/29/2025

This week’s November 27th edition of The Regional News is filled with news to be thankful for, along with important updates. Here's a look at what's inside:
• Thanksgiving Traditions: Explore the history of the holiday and read what local students are thankful for this year.
• Indiana Education Gala: Local schools and educators are celebrated at a red-carpet event in Indianapolis, including South Central receiving $25,000 with the Excellence in Professional Learning & Leadership Development Award.
• Students Spread Joy: Tri-Township Student Council visits Avalon Nursing Home to share crafts and conversation.
• Hoosier Solar Fund: A new $105,000 matching fund is established with the Unity Foundation to support local needs.
• Airport of the Year: La Porte Municipal Airport earns the top statewide honor for 2025.
• Statehouse Standoff: Tensions rise as lawmakers face threats and the Senate defies the governor's special session call.
• Holiday Event Guide: Get the details on Santa visits, tree lightings, and winter festivals across the county!
• Consumer Protection: Attorney General Rokita releases a new "Bill of Rights" for consumer data privacy.
• Local Sentencings: Read about the prison sentences handed down in two separate major local cases.
• Tragic Crash in Knox: Police investigate a fatal accident involving a pedestrian on U.S. 35.

📰 Don't miss out on the stories and photos that capture the heart of our community. Find The Regional News at your local retailer today, including in Wanatah at Casey’s or Dollar General, in Westville at the Casey's General Store, the Family Express, Dollar General, or BP, in LaCrosse at the Dollar General, BP, or LaCrosse Public Library, and in the Kouts Family Express.

You can also enjoy the convenience of having The Regional News delivered right to your door. This isn’t your Facebook newsfeed. For just $45 a year—only 87¢ a week—you'll receive over 500 pages of in-depth local coverage for Southern LaPorte County. Subscribe today by visiting https://kielmedia.com/shop/. 📰

11/27/2025

This Thanksgiving, we reflect on the many ways our community comes together—from celebrating excellence to supporting those in need.

This week's November 27th edition of The Regional News features coverage of the Indiana Educational Excellence Awards Gala, where South Central Community School Corporation was honored with a $25,000 award for professional learning! We also have heartwarming stories of Tri-Township students visiting Avalon Nursing Home and local second and third graders sharing what they are thankful for this year.

Alongside these celebrations, we're covering serious news from the state and region. Read about the escalating threats against Indiana lawmakers amid the redistricting fight, the unprecedented legislative standoff in Indianapolis, and a tragic fatal crash in Starke County.

Plus, catch up on local achievements like the La Porte Municipal Airport being named Airport of the Year, see photos from the Lady Satellites building bonds with their Big Sis/Lil Sis Clinic, and get details on upcoming holiday events like the Santa Parade and Festival of Lights.

From state honors to holiday traditions, we have Southern La Porte County covered. Pick up your copy of The Regional News today to see all the photos and get the full stories! Find The Regional News at your local retailer today, including in Wanatah at Casey’s or Dollar General, in Westville at the Casey's General Store, the Family Express, Dollar General, or BP, in LaCrosse at the Dollar General, BP, or LaCrosse Public Library, and in the Kouts Family Express.

You can also enjoy the convenience of having The Regional News delivered right to your door. This isn’t your Facebook newsfeed. For just $45 a year—only 87¢ a week—you'll receive over 500 pages of in-depth local coverage for Southern LaPorte County. Subscribe today by visiting https://kielmedia.com/shop/. 📰

Wishing all our readers a safe, happy, and blessed Thanksgiving!

11/24/2025

Union Mills Lions Celebrate 50 Years of Service

The Union Mills Lions Club marked a major milestone on Saturday, November 15, celebrating its 50th anniversary with a special dinner and ceremony at Portifinos Restaurant.

For half a century, the club has been a pillar of the community, supporting local projects like the annual Senior Dinner, providing scholarships for graduates, and lighting up our streets. They also contribute to vital international causes like Leader Dog and vision screening.

District Governor Jim Furlong joined current and former members to honor the club's history, which began in 1975 with 23 members. Today, the 34-member club remains as committed as ever to its motto: "We Serve."

📰 Read the full story on the club's history and celebration in the November 20th edition of The Regional News, available now at local retailers, including in Wanatah at Casey’s or Dollar General, in Westville at the Casey's General Store, the Family Express, Dollar General, or BP, in LaCrosse at the Dollar General, BP, or LaCrosse Public Library, and in the Kouts Family Express.

You can also enjoy the convenience of having The Regional News delivered right to your door. This isn’t your Facebook newsfeed. For just $45 a year—only 87¢ a week—you'll receive over 500 pages of in-depth local coverage for Southern LaPorte County. Subscribe today by visiting https://kielmedia.com/shop/. 📰

11/24/2025

It's a week of milestones and major updates! This week’s November 20th edition of The Regional News is one you won't want to miss.

Here's a look at what's inside:
• Union Mills Lions Turn 50: The club celebrates a half-century of service with a special anniversary dinner and ceremony.
• Property Tax Analysis: A new report breaks down how recent changes could mean higher bills for owners of lower-value homes.
• Emergency SNAP Market: A "Giving Market" is launching this weekend to help local families amid the federal benefits pause.
• New Homes in Westville: New Durham Estates unveils innovative "CrossMod" homes to help address local housing needs.
• South Central Explores Trades: Students get hands-on experience at the Porter County Construction & Skilled Trades Day.
• Westville Celebrates Day "6-7": Middle school students and staff embrace a viral trend for a day of fun and learning.
• National Guard Deployment: About 300 Hoosier Guardsmen are heading to Washington, D.C. for a public safety mission.
• Leadership La Porte County: The 42nd class gets an inside look at the local criminal justice system.
• Holiday Events Guide: Get the details on upcoming holiday bazaars, Santa parades, and Christmas tree lightings!

📰 Don't miss out on the stories and photos that capture the heart of our community. Find The Regional News at your local retailer today, including in Wanatah at Casey’s or Dollar General, in Westville at the Casey's General Store, the Family Express, Dollar General, or BP, in LaCrosse at the Dollar General, BP, or LaCrosse Public Library, and in the Kouts Family Express.

You can also enjoy the convenience of having The Regional News delivered right to your door. This isn’t your Facebook newsfeed. For just $45 a year—only 87¢ a week—you'll receive over 500 pages of in-depth local coverage for Southern LaPorte County. Subscribe today by visiting https://kielmedia.com/shop/. 📰

11/24/2025

HealthLinc Offers Holiday Family Events

HealthLinc is inviting the community to get into the holiday spirit with four separate "Holidays with HealthLinc" events across the region. All gatherings will feature holiday activities, crafts, snacks, and no-cost photos with Santa. Attendees are welcomed and encouraged to wear their holiday pajamas.

• Tuesday, December 2: Michigan City. HealthLinc Michigan City location. 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Thursday, December 4: Knox. Starke County Public Library. 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, December 9: La Porte. HealthLinc La Porte Pediatrics office. 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Thursday, December 11: Valparaiso. HealthLinc Valparaiso office. 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Well-child checkups are available by appointment for qualified, uninsured patients.

11/24/2025

The Regional News would like to offer its condolences to the family and friends of Gene Rice.

Gene L. Rice, 93 of Wanatah, IN, passed away on Friday, November 21, 2025. He was born on the Rice family farm on May 13. 1932. He was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Rodney Elliott, brothers Wayne Rice and Earl Rice, his sister Bonnie Christoph, and his grandson Michael Rice. He is survived by his wife, Kathryn, of 70 years, along with their children Julie Elliott (Perry) Nigh, Scott (Marianne) Rice, and Dana (Lisa) Rice, 10 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild due in December.

Gene was a US Army Veteran who served from 1953 to 1955 and spent several months in Korea.

Gene was a lifelong farmer on the Rice Family Farm, which his grandfather purchased in 1917. He did his part to advance the legacy that continues today.

His great passion was the Lions Club International, of which he was a member of the Wanatah club for at least 65 years. He served in every office from local to district level and was elected to a 2-year term on the International Board of Directors, serving from 1975 to 1977. It was through this opportunity that he and Kathryn travelled to many countries around the world. Their love for international travel stayed with them throughout life as they visited nearly 60 countries. Gene was also instrumental in developing the Lions eyeglass mission program, which continues to send missions every year to help people in need.

Gene was known throughout the area as the “wedding singer.” He sang at hundreds of weddings and funerals spanning six decades.

A special thank you to the staff of Pines Village in Valparaiso for their love and compassion for Gene. Special thanks also to Dunes Hospice for their compassionate care. And a very special thank you to his caregiver, Ms. Sharon Malama, for the incredible love and care she gave Gene during these past 11 months.

A visitation will be held Saturday, November 29th, from 10 a.m. to noon at Salem Church, 302 S. Main St., Wanatah, with a Lions Club service beginning at noon and a funeral service to follow. Luncheon will follow at the church with private family burial at Faith United Methodist Cemetery, 1550 S. 900 W., Wanatah. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Wanatah Lions Club or Salem Church would be appreciated. Please bring your used eyeglasses to the church for donation in honor of Gene.

The Regional News

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