In the spirit of investing in Michigan City’s youth and neighborhoods, more than 750 guests gathered for Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch’s Second Annual Charitable Gala on Friday at the Stardust Event Center at Blue Chip Casino, Hotel & Spa.
The evening featured fine dining and an elegant ambiance brought to life by the soulful sounds of violinist Windy Indie, followed by high-energy performances from The Together Band that kept guests dancing well into the night.
“At last year’s gala, we raised more than $100,000 that directly impacted over 25 youth-serving organizations in Michigan City,” said Mayor Nelson Deuitch. “It set a powerful precedent, and I’m proud to announce that we’ve not only matched that momentum—we’ve surpassed it.”
Through generous sponsorships and ticket sales, this year’s event raised more than $145,000 to support community-driven projects such as playgrounds, community gardens, neighborhood contests, block clubs, dumpster programs, seed and flower giveaways, arts in local parks, community cleanups, and youth engagement initiatives.
“This year’s focus will center on neighborhood programming and beautification,” the Mayor added. “Because when we pour into our young people and invest in the places they call home, we’re building a more connected, empowered, and beautiful Michigan City—one where everyone can thrive.”
For the second consecutive year, Horizon Bank served as the presenting sponsor for the Mayor’s Charitable Gala.
“This gala is a celebration of what’s possible when a community unites around a shared purpose,” Nelson Deuitch said. “We are incredibly grateful for Horizon Bank’s continued partnership, as well as the unwavering support of our Gold, Silver, and Table sponsors. Every ticket purchased and every donation made represents belief in this mission—and that belief drives everything we do.”
Gold sponsors included Bob Loquercio Auto Group, Laborers’ International Union Local 81, La Porte County Convention & Visitors Bureau, and NIPSCO.
Silver sponsors included 4411 Inn & Suites; American Structurepoint; Ashland Propane; Barnes & Thornburg; Blue Chip Casino, Hotel & Spa; Butler, Fairman & SeuFert; Christopher B. Burke Engineering; Far South Community Development; Global Engineering & Land Surveying; Harbour Trust; Harris Law Firm; Hoosier Equipment; Iron Workers Local 395; Lochmueller Group; ms consultants; Phoenix Construction; SoLa; Tonn and Blank Construction; and Wessler Engineering.
More than 25 companies, community organizations, and individuals sponsored tables at the event.
Additionally, $25,000 has been earmarked to provide a dollar-for-dollar match on all donations supporting the creation of the Fedder’s Alley All-Inclusive Playground and Fitness Park—a transformative project that promises inclusive recreation for residents of all ages and abilities. The match opportunity ends May 11. Donations can be made through the Unity Foundation of La Porte County at www.uflc.net/funds/fedders-alley-park.