Carter Puckett

Erin Harrell is the driving force behind one of La Porte’s newest businesses: Evvy’s Coffeehouse. Evvy’s Coffeehouse is young, just eight weeks old, but it’s already bringing the community together and becoming a staple in La Porte. “I think …

Kayla Brooks is a young mother and an aspiring photographer in the Region. Like many others, she is learning and experiencing life as it comes to her. Although she is young, she is an inspiring individual and bright light in her community. Brooks was born and …

Kelly Dykstra is reinventing farmers’ markets and community events in Cedar Lake and the Region. In addition to being the coordinator for the Cedar Lake farmers’ market, Dykstra also runs other markets, owns a salon, and is a wellness educator …

Never underestimate the power of positivity. That’s what Kelly Schneider learned when giving a gift to a close friend. Schneider, in partnership with a recording studio, has created a CD that has reached far beyond anything she could have ever imagined …

Rachel Calderone isn’t originally from the Region, but she loves to call Northwest Indiana home. As an alumnus of Hanover Central High School, Calderone first moved here at the beginning of her high school career and hasn’t looked back since. As a teacher …

Originally from Indianapolis and residing in Valparaiso, Beth Krutz leads the way in developing young teens at La Porte Middle School. Krutz is the Principal at La Porte Middle School and loves working with both staff and students. “It is fun and rewarding …

Originally from Hammond, Ind. and a current resident of Calumet City, Ill., James Upchurch is a working man through and through. Upchurch runs a construction company, The Region Public Adjusters, and a nonprofit organization called The Region Paws and Claws …

Born and raised in Southwest Michigan, Jamie LeDonne currently resides in Union Mills and is the Regional Administrator for International Cultural Exchange Services, a firm that works with exchange students to place them with host families during their time …

Munster, Ind. native Dorothy Lakshmanamurthy proves to us all that you’re never too young to have an impact on your community. Currently a sophomore at Munster High School, Lakshmanamurthy has been involved in Girl Scouts since she was in kindergarten. As a …

Lynne Budig is a well-known member of the La Porte County community. You may not recognize her, but odds are that you’ve had some of her cookies. As the owner and founder of Della Nonna’s, Budig has found success in her business, even through tough times …