GreatNews.Life Student Voices: Independence and identity shine in Hammond

What’s recently happened?

This July, Hammond residents gathered to celebrate a month filled with patriotic pride, cultural traditions, and community connection.

On July 3, the City of Hammond held its annual Independence Day Celebration at the Wolf Lake Memorial Park Pavilion (PAV). The morning began with a Naturalization Ceremony, where individuals from many different countries officially became United States citizens. The event served as a powerful reminder of the American values of freedom, opportunity, and unity.

One organization present was the League of Women Voters (LWV), a nonpartisan group that welcomed the new citizens and helped them with voter registration.

“The naturalization ceremonies are my favorite part of being a member of the LWV,” said Linda Hellems-Trinkle, a member of over 30 years. “The new citizens are excited to be Americans, and these ceremonies help renew my loyalty to the country and to our Constitution.”

Later that evening, the Bill Porter Orchestra performed a collection of patriotic music to help drive that sweet American pride. After they finished, citizens were able to watch a beautiful fireworks show that filled the starry night sky.

Later in the month, the Whiting-Robertsdale community hosted one of Northwest Indiana’s most well-known summer festivals, Pierogi Fest. Held July 25-27, the event on average attracts over 300,000 people yearly, all eager to enjoy traditional Polish food and lively entertainment.

Known for its quirky charm and strong cultural pride, Pierogi Fest featured the popular Polka Parade on July 24, along with characters like Mr. Pierogi and the “Buscias,” as well as rows of food vendors offering a variety of traditional pierogi and offerings from local businesses. Stages throughout downtown Whiting featured polka bands, local performers, and games for all ages.

With its diverse array of food options and unique music acts, Pierogi Fest remains one of the most iconic summer traditions in the Region.

To be informed of next year’s Pierogi Fest, visit pierogifest.net.

What’s coming up?

As summer begins to wind down, Hammond and the Region in general still have many events in store for residents. The PAV will continue its Summer Concert Series throughout August, with free shows that feature both local talent and nationally recognized tribute acts.

On August 9, Echoes of Pompeii, a Pink Floyd tribute band known for its immersive light shows and iconic sound, will take the stage. The following week, on August 16, Rico! will bring a high-energy, multicultural performance to the stage, blending Afro-Cuban rhythms with rock, soul, jazz, funk, and reggae in a dynamic tribute inspired by Santana. On August 23, Trippin’ Billies, a high-energy Dave Matthews Band tribute group, will return to the area to close out the month’s concert series.

Families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy the lakeside performances under the evening sky.

More information is available on the PAV’s website at wolflakepavilion.com.

On August 5, Hammond will celebrate its National Night Out at the PAV from 5-8 p.m. The event encourages community-building between residents and local civil service workers. Families can enjoy food, music, activities, and safety demonstrations, including opportunities to see the Lake County Sheriff’s helicopter up close and explore various civil service vehicles on display. The first 500 children to attend will receive free swag bags.

Just a short drive from Hammond, the community will find the Lake County Fair taking place at Crown Point from August 1-10.

One of Northwest Indiana’s largest and most anticipated summer fairs, the Lake County Fair features many carnival rides, livestock competitions, agricultural exhibits, a petting zoo, and a full schedule of live music on multiple stages. Visitors can enjoy activities like frog jumping contests, bean spitting, pedal pulls, swine races, pie and ice cream eating contests, and heritage demonstrations. The fair provides fun for all ages while celebrating the Region’s agricultural heritage and strong sense of community.

For the full Lake County Fair schedule, visit lake-county-fair.com.

Community member spotlight:

Barbara Schilling has been involved with the LWV of the Calumet Area for over 30 years. What began as a recommendation from a neighbor turned into a lasting commitment to civic education and advocacy.

“One of my favorite things to do is register new citizens at naturalization ceremonies,” Schilling said. “These people are so excited about becoming U.S. citizens. It’s just fun interacting with them and getting them set up so they go vote for the first time.”

The LWV is a nonpartisan organization focused on empowering voters and defending democracy. The Calumet Area chapter serves Lake County, and parts of Cook County, Illinois. It focuses on voter registration, engagement, education, and advocacy for issues such as housing, women’s rights, and education.

“We want people to exercise their right to vote, and we want them to be educated voters,” Schilling said. “That’s why we use VOTE411. It’s our voter education website, and it helps people see what their candidates stand for before heading to the polls.”

VOTE411, created by the National League, compiles candidate surveys and allows users to compare responses and learn where local and national candidates stand on important issues.

In addition to online tools, the league remains active in person. Members participate in naturalization ceremonies, visit high schools and universities, attend resource fairs, and table at community events.

The group is also expanding its online presence by making an Instagram account and increasing its use of Facebook to connect with younger and more diverse audiences.

Schilling encourages those who want to help improve the community to consider joining.

“If people want to help improve the way things are in our community, they should join the League,” she said.

To learn more or get involved with the League of Women Voters of the Calumet Area, visit lwvcalumet.org.