What’s recently happened?
Michigan City has been watching the high school with excitement over the past month. On June 4, Michigan City High School (MCHS) hosted its graduation ceremony. The Class of 2023 walked the stage starting at noon, receiving their diplomas and moving towards their futures.
Several graduating students were recognized at the Distinguished Senior Banquet on June 1. At the event, 28 students, along with the 28 teachers they chose to take with them, were celebrated for the many achievements of the school year.
With the conclusion of the school year, MCHS students, as well as their family members and friends, began tasting the freedom of summertime. The city certainly had much to offer for them to enjoy.
In Washington Park, the Singing Sands Sand Sculpting Festival took place from June 9 through June 11. The event’s centerpieces were, of course, the remarkable sand sculptures the event was named for, which sculptors from all over the country spent the weekend working on. There were also several craft and food vendors for guests to explore.
On June 17, Michigan City’s PFLAG hosted Michigan City Pride Fest. Attendees enjoyed performances from a filled-to-the-brim lineup of bands that filled the amphitheater with heartfelt live music. They ate food from local vendors, and explored the offerings from local groups, companies, and nonprofits. It was, overall, a thrilling event filled with excitement and love.
What’s coming up?
On June 24, the city will be hosting its annual Kiddie Parade, a special event highlighting the youth of the city. Starting at 11 a.m., Michigan City kids will fill the streets, marching with floats, costumes, and spirit, playing to the theme “A Disney Patriotic Celebration.”
Michigan City will also be hosting its annual Patriotic Parade on July 1. The parade will take place on Franklin street at 11 a.m. In the past, it has included local first responders, political candidates, small businesses, the high school’s marching band, and youth clubs, groups, and sports.
On July 4, the city will be hosting its annual firework showing in Washington Park at 8:30 p.m. Once the sun sinks below the horizon, the air above the water will come alive with a pyrotechnic spectacle. It is truly a special part of every Michigan City citizen’s year.
MCHS’s Drama Club, in cooperation with Centerstage Youth Theatre, will be putting on a production of “Beauty and the Beast Jr.” Students ages 7 to 14 will perform July 14, 15, and 16 after months of working tirelessly on preparing for the show. The show will cost $10 to attend and is open for anyone. Come and see the product of their hard work.
The conclusion of the school year is the beginning of summer fun, and Michigan City has no shortage of thrilling opportunities for everyone to enjoy.
Community member spotlight:
Angie Nelson Deuitch is an avid member of the Michigan City community who has given back to the city in a myriad of ways over her long career. Her involvement in education, politics, and social progress has forever changed the community she strives to improve.
“I’ve been on the city council twice, both vastly different experiences. The first time was in 2008, and the council really governed through committee work and recommendations. I chaired mostly committees around public health and safety and economic development. I enjoyed that time more than compared to this tenure since 2020. The difference is everything is done at council meetings, for the most part, when we could get so much more done if the committees were active,” Nelson Deuitch said.
Her early political involvement was far from a drive for her many other accomplishments, however.
“My community work is based on how I was raised in Michigan City and leadership positions I have held throughout my childhood and adulthood. It’s more about my value system,” Nelson Deuitch said.
Nelson Deuitch is involved with many educational programs, including City Connect, which focuses on preparing first generation students for college. It helps them fill out college applications and financial aid forms. Nelson Deuitch’s involvement in this program is one of deep meaning to her.
“If a black kid from Edward Street in Eastport and the oldest of seven kids who worked to help pay bills can be a role model to someone, that’s golden. I had so many inspirational teachers, coaches, community and family members that supported me. I feel I have an obligation to do the same,” Nelson Deuitch said.
Nelson Deuitch’s involvement in these programs, and other city-based groups, has taught her much about the deep-rooted struggles of the community over the years.
“Youth violence and family support are some of the biggest struggles we currently face. To improve them will require a culture change. Michigan City is at a crossroads that will require the municipal government, school system and nonprofits to work together on a comprehensive plan,” Nelson Deuitch said.
Nelson Deuitch was inspired by all that she had seen throughout her own experiences and the experiences of others to take bigger steps and make a change. In April and May, she was on the ticket as a democratic candidate for mayor. After a strong win, she became the democratic candidate for Michigan City’s mayoral vote this November, set to run against Republican Candidate Duane Parry. One of the strongest points she has made throughout her campaign is the importance of everyone from youth to elders showing up to vote.
“I have watched the government happen to us without the majority of the people having a say,” Nelson Deuitch said.
She believes her life experiences give her a special insight to the lives of Michigan City’s citizens.
“I believe a city leader should be a giver of time, talent and treasure. They also should know the pulse of residents and understand services that are provided for those in need. My background, skill sets, and experiences allow me to meet people where they are at,” Nelson Deuitch said.
Angie Nelson Deuitch is a hard-working, passionate woman who will change the Michigan City community forever, in or out of office.