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

08/30/2025

COLD CASE: Your help is needed.

La Porte County Sheriff’s Office detectives are asking for the public's assistance as they revisit the 1988 deaths of two teenagers, 16-year-old Tamara Gifford and 17-year-old Christina Hillis.

In March 1989, the bodies of Tamara and Christina, both from Florida, were discovered in a ditch along State Road 8, west of State Road 39. Investigators determined they had likely died in December 1988. The girls had been reported as runaways and were believed to have been in Starke County just before their deaths.

After all these years, detectives have reopened this case. They are re-examining evidence, have revisited the scene, and are in contact with the girls' families.

Now, your help is needed. Do you remember anything from that time? Did you live in or travel through La Porte or Starke County in December 1988? Did you know Tamara or Christina, or anyone they associated with?

Even a small, seemingly insignificant memory could be the crucial piece of information that helps bring closure to their families.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Chief of Detectives Andy Hynek at (219) 326-7700 ext. 2401 or by email at [email protected].

Please SHARE this post to help us reach as many people as possible.

Image caption: Pictured: Tamara Gifford (left) and Christina Hillis (right).

08/30/2025

The Regional News is the voice of Southern La Porte County, and this week’s issue is one you won't want to miss! We're celebrating our community and covering the news that matters to you. Here's a look at what's inside:
• A Festival to Remember: Full coverage and photos from a successful 39th annual Mill Pond Festival in Union Mills.
• Michigan City Prison to Remain Open: The Indiana Department of Correction has shifted its course and now plans to keep the Indiana State Prison open indefinitely.
• Redistricting Push Continues: Indiana Republican lawmakers travel to the White House to discuss a controversial mid-cycle redistricting plan.
• Man Sentenced in Fatal Hit-and-Run: A La Porte County man will serve five years in prison for his role in a 2024 crash.
• Detectives Revisit Cold Case: The Sheriff's Office is taking a new look into the 1988 deaths of two Florida teenagers found in La Porte County.
• Lions Support Tour de La Porte: The Westville Lions Club hosts a successful refreshment station for nearly 200 cyclists.
• KV REMC Linemen Compete: A team of local linemen showcased their skills at the Indiana Electric Cooperative Lineman Rodeo.
• Door Village Harvest Festival is Coming: Get ready for a weekend of pioneer fun, historical tours, and a living cemetery.
• K-9 Unit Demo at Mill Pond: See photos of Miko and Simba from the La Porte County Sheriff's Office K-9 unit showing off their skills.
• Time for Pork Chops! The LaCrosse Lions Club is firing up the grill this Saturday for its popular pork chop sale.

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/.

08/29/2025

The Regional News would like to offer its condolences to the family and friends of Weston Hunt-Norman.

Weston Chase Hunt-Norman, 27, of Indianapolis, formerly of Kouts, passed away Thursday, August 28, 2025, as a result of an accident. He was born May 15, 1998, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Brian and Stacey (Horne) Norman, and graduated from Kouts High School in 2016. He enlisted in the U.S. Army between his junior and senior year, fulfilling his passion over these past 10 years and achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant with the 1413th Engineering Company based in Franklin, Indiana. Weston lived life to the fullest with an enthusiasm that was contagious. His passion for service in the U.S. Army was followed closely by his excitement to travel the open roads on his motorcycle with friends. His red-nosed pit bull, “Bo,” was always ready to welcome him home after every two-wheeled adventure and military assignment.

Survivors include his father, Brian (Millie) Norman of Kouts, mother, Stacey Norman of Tulsa, brothers: Anthony “Scooter” Norman (Grace Wilcox) of Crown Point, Brett Norman of Kouts, grandparents: Nancy Norman of Kouts, Jan & W.C. Hunt of Oklahoma, and many loving aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Richard Norman, on November 2, 2022, his aunt, Karen Norman, and his uncles, Rick Norman and Jason Norman.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 3, from 3 to 7 p.m. CST at Kosanke Funeral Home, 309 S. Main St., Kouts, IN. The funeral service will be held on Thursday at the funeral home beginning at 10:00 a.m. CST, Rev. Jayson Birky officiating, with burial to follow with full military honors at Calvary Cemetery in Portage, IN.

08/29/2025

It was a perfect weekend for a festival! This week’s edition of The Regional News is filled with photos and highlights from the 39th annual Mill Pond Festival, where thousands gathered for the parade, car show, live music, and a spectacular fireworks display. We're also celebrating the spirit of community with the Westville Lions Club, which hosted a fantastic refreshment stop for nearly 200 cyclists at the Tour de La Porte.

Alongside these community celebrations, we're covering the major political news from the Statehouse and Washington, D.C., as Indiana Republicans met with the White House to discuss a controversial push for mid-cycle redistricting. We also have the significant local update that the Department of Correction has reversed its course and now plans to keep the Indiana State Prison in Michigan City open beyond 2027.

Plus, get the latest on the sentencing in a fatal hit-and-run case from 2024, a new look into the 1988 cold case deaths of two teenage girls, and see the skills of our local KV REMC linemen who competed at the Indiana Lineman Rodeo.

From festival fireworks to Statehouse debates, 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/.

08/28/2025

The Regional News would like to offer its condolences to the family and friends of Doris Garner.

Doris “Babe” Eileen Garner, 98, of Hanna, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 26, 2025. She was born on October 14, 1926, in Hanna, Indiana, to the late Arthur and Matilda (Heiman) Selby.

On September 14, 1946, Babe married the love of her life, William Garner, and together they shared 77 wonderful years before his passing in 2024. For many years, Doris and William owned, built, and operated the KOA Campgrounds in Hanna, where they created a welcoming place for families to gather and make memories.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and homemaker, Doris found her greatest joy in her family. She was also a member of the Hanna Methodist Church.

She will be lovingly remembered by her children: Lois (David) Boyd, Diana (Robert) Bailey, Terry (Lisa) Garner, Deborah (Robert) Clark, and Pamela (James) Glasgow. Doris was the cherished grandmother of 14 grandchildren. She also leaves behind numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband William, her siblings, her grandson Clint Bailey, and her daughter-in-law Susan Burnham Garner.

A private graveside service will be held on Tuesday, September 2, 2025.

08/27/2025

State Road 8 to Close Between LaCrosse and Kouts

Indiana Department of Transportation contractor LaPorte Construction Company will close State Road 8 between C.R. 300 E and C.R. 450 E on or after Tuesday, September 2.

State Road 8 will be closed through mid-October for a bridge deck overlay project over Crooked Creek. Motorists should seek alternate routes. The official detour will follow State Road 49, U.S. 30, and U.S. 421.

08/25/2025

The Regional News would like to offer its condolences to the family and friends of Bill Rosenbaum.

William (Bill) Henry Rosenbaum, 76, of LaCrosse, IN, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2025. Born on February 23, 1949, to Arthur and Kathryn (Parthune) Rosenbaum, Bill graduated from Wanatah High School in 1968. He loved his country and served in the Army Reserves. He was also a proud member of the Wanatah American Legion Post 403. Bill was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Church when he was young. In 1990, he became a member of Salem Church in Wanatah, where he furthered his relationship with God.

A lifelong farmer, Bill also drove semi for Bulk Transport and was a member of the Union Teamsters. He had a passion for sports, growing up playing basketball and baseball. Bill was a die-hard Purdue Boilermaker fan, though he secretly cheered for IU when they weren't playing against Purdue. He also supported the Chicago White Sox and the Miami Dolphins. Bill loved being outdoors, whether grilling, riding his golf cart, or mowing the yard. He was always busy with something. He was a loving husband, son, brother, dad, grandpa, uncle, and friend. Bill was truly one of a kind, and his memory will forever be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know him. His warmth, kindness, and unique spirit touched the hearts of many, leaving a lasting mark on everyone he met.

On March 24, 1990, Bill married his sweetheart, Gerry Grieger, who survives him along with his beloved children: Brandon (Kathy) Rosenbaum, Krista Rosenbaum, Sara (Cary) Koselke, and Kate (Bryan) Poort. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Jane Bailey; sister-in-law, Robbie Grieger; brothers-in-law, Leroy (Doc) Koselke and Ross Lehman; and several nieces and nephews. Bill's grandchildren, Mikayla (Brant), Kendall (Bradley), Ronin, Calen, and Landon, were the loves of his life. He cherished attending their ball games, parties, and visits. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Arnold and Bob Rosenbaum; sisters, Janet Koselke and Peg Sallee; sisters-in-law, Sherry Lehman, Nancy Rosenbaum, and Joyce Rosenbaum.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Salem United Church of Christ, 302 S. Main St., Wanatah, with a Funeral Service on Thursday, August 28, at 10:00 a.m. and burial to follow at Salem Cemetery in Wanatah. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Salem United Church of Christ. Wanatah Funeral Chapel is entrusted with the arrangements.

08/23/2025

The Regional News is the voice of Southern La Porte County, and this week’s issue is one you won't want to miss! We're celebrating our local schools and covering the news that matters to you. Here's a look at what's inside:

• Scholarships Awarded: Three local students receive the Neil Thompson Memorial Scholarship.
• Mill Pond Festival Returns: Union Mills is ready for a weekend of fun with a parade, fireworks, and live music.
• Kouts Pork Fest is Here! Get the full schedule for this weekend's big celebration in Kouts.
• Bus Vandalism Forces eLearning Day: Thieves steal catalytic converters from 20-25 Michigan City school buses, forcing a district-wide shift to remote learning.
• Westville Honors Its Own: The school district celebrates its 2025 Teachers of the Year and recognizes staff for their dedicated years of service.
• GOP Congressmen Back Redistricting: Indiana's entire House GOP delegation has lined up behind a controversial plan to redraw maps before the next census.
• Students Shine at DCI World Finals: Two Tri-Township students perform on a national stage at Lucas Oil Stadium.
• New Path to the Trades: Michigan City launches a new Apprenticeship Readiness Program for residents.
• Home Invasion Arrest: A New York man is in custody following a home invasion in Coolspring Township.
• Driver Charged in Bus Crash: New charges have been filed against the driver involved in the New Prairie bus crash from May.

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/.

08/20/2025

Westville Methodist Hosts August Meal

WESTVILLE – The Westville Methodist Church will host its free monthly community meal on Wednesday, August 20, with this month’s dinner sponsored by the Westville Lion’s Club.

The church invites everyone to enjoy a delicious “Soup-a-lious” meal, which will be served from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Family Life Center, located at 154 W. Main Street.

Following the dinner, a worship message will be offered at 6:30 p.m. for those who wish to stay. All members of the community are welcome to attend this free event for an evening of food and fellowship.

08/17/2025

The Regional News is the voice of Southern La Porte County, and this week’s issue is one you won't want to miss! We're celebrating our community and covering the news that matters to you. Here's a look at what's inside:
• HannaFest Fun! Full coverage and photos from the weekend's festivities, including the parade, car show, and magic show.
• Operation Feed's Big Day: See how the community came together to stock 33 local food pantries with over 9,000 pounds of meat and goods.
• Back to School: Welcome-back letters from the superintendents at Westville, South Central, and Tri-Township schools.
• 96 Years in Prison: John Hupertz is convicted and sentenced on child molestation and po*******hy charges.
• Murder Charge Filed: A Michigan City man has been arrested and charged in the fatal shooting outside Matey's Bar.
• Redistricting Pushback: Indiana Republican lawmakers are speaking out against the prospect of an early, mid-cycle redistricting.
• State Budget Cuts: A look at how local state agencies are planning to reduce spending.
• Leadership Camp: Leadership La Porte County empowers middle school students with a summer leadership program.
• Satellites Win Opener: The Lady Satellite golf team starts their season with a victory over Michigan City.
• New Troopers on Patrol: Two new probationary troopers have been assigned to the ISP Lowell Post.

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, in Hanna at the Marathon Plaza 30 Truck Stop, 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/.

08/16/2025

Solid Waste District of La Porte County will be holding a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) and Electronics event on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at the Kankakee Valley REMC at 8642 W. US 30 in Wanatah from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bring any old electronics and hazardous household wastes such as oil, antifreeze, batteries, fluorescent bulbs, fertilizers, oil-based paint, stains, and varnishes, etc. to the event for proper recycling and/or disposal. Also accepted are Sharps/syringes that are contained in a hard-sided container, such as a laundry detergent bottle, and medications placed in a clear resealable bag.

NIRPC offers a gas can exchange program in cooperation with the SWD's Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program, providing an opportunity to bring in an old gas can for a new one. The reason it is important to replace old cans is that old leaky gas cans are a major contributor to air pollution, particularly ozone formation. By bringing in your old gas can, you are helping the environment and the air quality in your area. The new one received is a 2.5-gallon CARB gas can. These gas cans are leak-proof and no-spill. They are also made of a thicker plastic that prevents harmful gases from leaking through the plastic, which is a major problem with other older gas cans. In addition to preventing ozone formation, the leak-proof design helps prevent stormwater run-off. During the event, each vehicle can exchange one gas container for a new one. Gas containers brought for exchange must be surrendered for a new safety can.

08/15/2025

What a weekend for community spirit! This week’s edition of The Regional News is packed with photos and stories from HannaFest, celebrating another year of hometown fun, from the parade and car show to the pie-eating contest. We're also highlighting the incredible generosity of our community with full coverage of Operation Feed LaPorte County's disbursement day, where 33 local pantries were stocked with thousands of pounds of food thanks to donations from the 4-H livestock auction and local residents.

Alongside these celebrations, we are covering the major local crime and political news. We have the full story on the 96-year prison sentence handed down to John Hupertz for child molestation and the recent arrest of a Michigan City man who has been charged with murder in a fatal bar shooting.

Plus, get ready for the new school year with special welcome-back letters from the superintendents of Westville, South Central, and Tri-Township schools. We're also covering the growing opposition from Indiana GOP lawmakers to a potential early redistricting and how state agencies are planning for budget cuts.

From festival fun to frontline news, 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, 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, in Hanna at the Marathon Plaza 30 Truck Stop, 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/.

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