Life in the Spotlight

Most teenagers have to be persuaded to volunteer on the weekend. Olivia Hazzard, a sophomore at Marquette Catholic High School and lifelong Portage resident, gives back because she wants to, not because she has to. Hazzard’s earliest memory of...

Meg Bonta picked up a violin for the first time when she was just 5 years old. Now, she not only plays 11 string instruments, she is also the co-founder of SoundTide Music School in Portage. Growing up in Munster, Bonta attended Andrean High School...

At just 11 years old, Duke Torres has aspirations to become an Olympic gymnast one day. With four years of training and three years of competing so far, he is already on his way to making his dreams a reality.  "In first grade, I was flipping...

Kaya Flatz, an associate at the United Parcel Service (UPS) in Portage, is a shining example of young ambition. At the age of 22, Flatz is committed to supporting her work, family, and friends. She works hard and has an innate desire to give back to...

William “Bill” Fekete is a notable champion of the City of Portage with an impressive track record of service to his community. Starting from humble beginnings, Fekete would invest his career and livelihood in the health and well-being of...

Kindergarten is a whimsical time in every child’s journey where a teacher molds a foundation for a lifetime of learning. Jody Greer, a beloved kindergarten teacher at Crisman Elementary School, knows the importance of cultivating a conducive...

Penny Rush, the administrative assistant at Crisman Elementary School in Portage, is a true testament to the power of taking a chance and finding life’s calling. What started as a simple substitute teaching gig transformed into a fulfilling 18-year...

Andrew Pleasant, an incoming sophomore at Marquette Catholic High School in Michigan City, has been immersed in the world of sports since a very young age. With a passion that runs deep in his familial roots, Pleasant’s aptitude for sports had led...

A new book, “Teddy and the Gipper: A Fighting Irish Friendship” has captivated readers with its heartwarming tale of friendship, history, and community. Author Len Clark, Ph.D. — a Mobile Journalism Educator and Storyteller, DISC® Consultant...

Rebecca Reiner, the founder and executive director of Neighbors’ Educational Opportunities (NEO) is the driving force behind New Vistas High School (New Vistas). Reiner transformed NEO into a beacon of hope to adults and non-traditional students...