Because of their nonprofit status, the next successful challenge was raising the $10,000 necessary to partner with the Crown Point Community Foundation to handle the T-CEF endowment fund. All income generated from this fund goes to their Annual Grant Opportunity.

The T-CEF’s 25-year mission has always been “To encourage community philanthropy to promote and fund excellence and innovation in education for Tri-Creek School Corporation students.”

Since their inception, the T-CEF has.

• Awarded $564,645 in Grants

• Awarded $1,281,497 in Scholarships

• Managed $217,497 in Donor Directed Funds

• Established an Endowment Fund valued at $420,000.

The T-CEP is celebrating their 25th anniversary thanks to the original board: Cheryl Rosevear (president), Mike Grant (vice-president), Doris Curless (secretary), Lynn Bochart (treasurer) and members Gregory Brown, Janice Bruce, Cheryl Gibson, Tom Lump, Ken Sheets, Don Smith and Don Yeoman, superintendent. Tom Grant served the board as community advisor.

Beginning this month, the Lake County Sheriff’s Department will send more than 60 warning notices to companies and individuals operating vehicles in violation of weight limits.

From this point forward, traffic citations will be issued to those continuing to ignore weight restrictions on county roadways. Martinez urges anyone using county roads to be aware that they will be subject to receiving a traffic citation which will require them to appear in court if their vehicle exceeds the weight limit.

Lake County has a 15-ton limit on the following roads:

• 197^th from US-41 west to State Line Road

• 185^th from US-41 west to State Line Road

• 151^st from US-41 west to State Line Road

The Lake County Sheriff's Department is taking this proactive approach to help reduce the kind of heavy traffic on weight restricted roads that causes significant wear and tear to the roads. The accelerated degradation of the roads leads to increased maintenance costs for taxpayers. In addition, overweight vehicles also pose a safety risk for people operating farm equipment and for other drivers who may have difficulty navigating these roads because of vehicles barred from these areas.

“We have worked with the Lake County Highway Department to increase signage to make drivers more aware,” Martinez said. “We encourage members of the public to call the Lake County Sheriff’s Department Traffic Unit at 219-755-3392 if they witness vehicles violating the weight limit. Public safety is our top priority and your cooperation helps keep out roads safe and serviceable for everyone.”

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Set Your Hooks Into Some Books! - Summer Reading

For Kids

Summer Reading officially kicks off on Monday, June 2. This year children will create an ocean scene as they read! The eight- week summer reading program is designed to encourage reading and avoid the “summer slide”.

Sign-ups begin online, Tuesday, May 27.

https://www.lowellpl.lib.in.us/summer-reading-2025/

Join us on Monday, June 2, 10:30 AM—noon for our Summer Reading Kick-off event! Activities include balloon animals, face painting, coloring sheets, and a scavenger hunt! Stop in the program room and get a free ice cream cup and slice of pizza!

For Young Adult/Teens (grades 5-12)

For every book you read, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of three $50 gift cards or various other prizes.

Participation also gains admittance to the end of summer reading Cookout with Obstacle Course. Check our website at

https://www.lowellpl.lib.in.us/ya-summer-reading-2025/ for complete details about our summer Reading Challenge.

Adults

Read for a chance to “reel in” one of two $50.00 gift cards! You may enter as many times as you wish, so grab a booklet and start reading! Booklets are available at the circulation desk or online athttps://www.lowellpl.lib.in.us/adult-summer-reading-2025/.

Adults – Lowell

Knit & Crochet - Every Thursday in June at 9 a.m.

Meet up to knit and crochet, and share patterns and tips.

Red Cross Blood Drive - Saturday, June 7 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Give blood. Help save lives. Call 1-800–RED CROSS or visit RedCrossBlood.org to schedule your appointment.

Adult Book Club - Monday, June 9 from 1-3 p.m.

Read, then meet to discuss Go As a River, written by Shelley Read.

Drop-In Tech Help - Wednesday, June 11 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Do you have a question about how to use your phone, tablet, laptop, or computer? Stop in during our drop-in hours and ask for Amanda—she will work with you to find the answer! (First come, first served)

Adult Coloring - Tuesday, June 17 at 10 a.m.

Join in on the fun! Coloring helps us de-stress and stimulates brain areas related to motor skills. All supplies will be provided or you may bring your own.

Canasta - Wednesday, June 18 from 12-3 p.m.

Join us for a fun card game, and we’ll teach you how to play!

Poetry - Saturday, June 21 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Aspiring poets can join the NW Indiana Poetry Society. Bring your work or that of your favorite poet.

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY NEWS

Fundraiser Thanks

The Friends would like to thank Loven Oven in Lowell for their fundraiser last month, which helps us to fund library programs for all ages.

Friends Meet - Wednesday, June 4 at 5:30 p.m.

Attend our monthly meetings where we plan upcoming Friends events, fundraisers, and projects that support and improve the library. New friends welcome!

Scholastic Book Fair - Monday, June 9- Friday June 13

The Friends of the Lowell Public Library will hold their annual summer Scholastic Book Fair June 9-13. Proceeds from the book fair are used to purchase books and prizes for library programs. Shop online June 9-22 at https://www.scholastic.com/bf/lowellpubliclibrary. Families can choose from thousands of books, and orders will ship directly to the home, with free standard shipping on book-only purchases over $25.

$3.00 Bag Book Sale - Saturday, June 28 from 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

On the last Saturday of each month, get a bag of books for $3. You can bring your own brown grocery bag or ask for one at the circulation desk.

Children’s (birth-5^th grade) – Lowell

The following programs are for children from birth to 4th grade. There are two sessions for each summer activity – 10:30 a.m and 1:30 p.m. To assure that we have enough supplies, children must be pre-registered. Children, preschool age and under must be accompanied by an adult. Registration for these activities begins on Tuesday, May 27.

Tuesday Programs Thursday Programs

• June 10 - Paper Plate Jellyfish June 12 - Treasure Box

• June 17 - Shark Headband June 19 - BINGO

• June 24 - Recycled CD Fish June 26 - Ocean in a Cup

Tales for Tails Therapy Dog Visits - Tuesdays in June from 4-5 p.m.

Read or just visit with a certified therapy dog! This is a fun program where children can practice their reading skills while cozying up with a loveable pup. Registration is required!

Young Adult/ Teens (grades 5-12) – Lowell

Key Rack - Tuesday, June 4 from 1-2:30 p.m.

Sand, measure, drill holes, and stain a key rack to take home.

Kickball - Tuesday, June 11 from 1-2:30 p.m.

Join in on our epic game of kickball or play “Ultimate Frisbee”, depending on the number of players.

Nintendo Switch© Summer Games - Tuesday, June 18 from 10-11:30 a.m. OR 1-2:30 p.m.

Help us “break in” our new game system with Mario Kart Racing or choose another game. Only 4 slots available in each time frame. (Please only sign up for one!)

Patriotic Tie-Dye - Tuesday, June 25 from 1-2:30 p.m.

Bring a white cotton shirt . You can tie-dye red and blue to show your patriotism, or choose from other available colors.

SHELBY BRANCH LIBRARY – 23323 SHELBY ROAD –SHELBY, IN 46377 219-552-0809

Adults - Shelby

Cook the Book - Saturday, June 7 at 11 a.m.

Bring a dip and a copy of the recipe to share using one from any cookbook or website you choose.

Over 18 Game Days - Monday, June 9, 16, and 30 at 4 p.m.

Get together to play cards or board games.

Coffee & Conversation - Saturday, June 14 and 28 at 10 a.m.

Stop in for a cup of coffee. Stay for a chat.

Adult Book Discussion - Thursday, June 19 at 4 p.m.

Read, then meet to discuss Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers, written by Jesse Q. Sutanto.

Movies for Grown-Ups - Saturday, June 21 at 10 a.m.

Enjoy a morning movie at the library.

Senior Bingo - Monday, June 23 at 4 p.m.

Play for a chance to win a gift card.

Children’s – Shelby (birth-4^th grade)

Tuesdays at 4 p.m.

• June 10 Paper Plate Jellyfish

• June 17 Shark Headband

• June 24 Recycled CD Fish

Thursdays at 4 p.m.

• June 12 Painted Treasure Box

• June 19 No Program

• June 26 Ocean in a Cup Snack

Young Adult /Teens (grades 5-12) – Shelby

Young Adult Key Rack - Wednesday, June 11 at 4 p.m.

Make a key rack. Sand down the wood, drill holes for hooks, stain, and take it home!

Young Adult Bean Bags - Wednesday, June 18 at 4 p.m.

Face off against your fellow teens to see who the bean bag champion will be!

Young Adult Bingo - Wednesday, June 25 at 4 p.m.

Play this classic game for fun and prizes!

SCHNEIDER BRANCH LIBRARY – 24002 PARRISH AVE – SCHNEIDER, IN 46376 219-552-1000

Adults – Schneider

Adult Craft - Monday, June 9 at 5 p.m.

Paint a wooden butterfly.

Library Board Meets - Tuesday, June 17 at 6 p.m.

The regular meeting of the Lowell Public Library Board of Trustees will be held at the Schneider Branch.

Coffee & Conversation - Saturday, June 21 from 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Stop in for a cup of coffee!

Children’s – Schneider (birth-4^th grade)

Tuesdays at 11:30 a.m.

• June 10 - Paper Plate Jellyfish

• June 17 - Shark Headband

• June 24 - Recycled CD Fish

Thursdays at 11:30 a.m.

• June 12 - Painted Treasure Box

• June 19 - Bingo

• June 26 - Ocean in a Cup Snack

Young Adult /Teens (grades 5-12) – Schneider

Young Adult Nachos - Wednesday, June 4 at 4 p.m.

Join us for games and a nacho bar to kick off Summer Reading!

Young Adult Water Wars - Wednesday, June 11 at 4 p.m.

Engage in various water fights. Snacks will be provided.

Young Adult Tie-Dye - Wednesday, June 18 at 4 p.m.

Shirts will be provided.

Young Adult Wii Games - Wednesday, June 25 at 4 p.m.

Play Wii games with your friends. Snacks will be provided.

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Police officers with the Lake County Sheriff’s Department Highway Interdiction / Drug Task Force seized 8,000 – 10,000 suspected fentanyl pills during a traffic stop on I-65 on May 21.

Officers stopped a 33-year-old driver heading south near Lowell for windshield obstruction and a moving violation. While the driver was retrieving vehicle documents, officers observed suspected marijuana inside the vehicle.

Police officers later found several plastic bags packed with suspected fentanyl pills on the floor of the vehicle.

The Drug Enforcement Administration seized the pills.

The driver is identified as Nigel Beach of Shelbyville, Kentucky. He was taken into custody and is being held at the Jasper County Jail.

Criminal charges are pending.

“I am extremely proud of our officers for confiscating such a significant amount of fentanyl,” Lake County Sherif Oscar Martinez Jr. said, “As of this week the DEA has seized more than 29.7 million fentanyl pills nationwide, representing more than 139 million deadly doses. Every pill removed from our streets represents a life potentially saved. I commend the officers involved in this case for their diligence and commitment in the ongoing fight against the spread of opioids.”

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The parade will begin at 10:30 a.m., May 26, with staging at the Cal Ripken Little League parking lot along Joliet Street. The parade begins on Joliet Street, goes to Main Street south to Wells Street and ends at the Historic Maplewood Cemetery.

At 11 a.m., there will be a brief ceremony at the Historic Maplewood Cemetery in recognition of those who sacrificed for our freedom with a presentation from Jim Laud Sr. of Sons and Daughters of Pearl Harbor Survivors Northwest Indiana.

American Legion Post 20 Cmdr. Kevin Dvorak will deliver opening remarks, with Mayor Land to deliver the reflection following.

Quick Facts

• What: Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony

• When: 10:30 a.m. (parade), 11 a.m. (ceremony) Monday, May 26

• Where: Joliet Street (parade), Historic Maplewood Cemetery, Wells Street entrance across from Solon Robinson Elementary (ceremony)

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John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and Christopher J.S. Johnson, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield, Illinois Field Office (FBI), announced the charges.

“As alleged, the defendant was part of an international ransomware scheme in which he conspired to target high-revenue companies in the United States, steal data, and hold data hostage in exchange for payment. If victims did not pay, the criminals then leaked the data online,” stated United States Attorney Durham. “The criminals who carry out these malicious cyber-attacks often do so from abroad in the belief that American justice cannot reach them. The extradition of the defendant and today’s charges prove that they are wrong.”

Mr. Durham also thanked the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, the FBI’s New York Field Office and the Government of Spain for their crucial assistance in securing the arrest and extradition from Spain of Stryzhak.

“The FBI has long recognized that combating international ransomware schemes requires strong partnerships,” stated FBI Special Agent in Charge Johnson. “The successful extradition of the defendant is a significant achievement in that ongoing collaboration and it sends a clear message: those who attempt to hide behind international borders to target American citizens will face justice.”

As alleged in the superseding indictment, Nefilim ransomware was deployed to encrypt computer networks in countries around the world, including in the Eastern District of New York. These ransomware attacks caused millions of dollars in losses, both from ransomware payments and damage to victim computer systems. The perpetrators of Nefilim typically customized the ransomware executable file for each victim, creating a unique decryption key and customized ransom notes. If the victims paid the ransom demand, the perpetrators sent the decryption key, enabling the victims to decrypt the computer files locked by the ransomware program.

In June 2021, Nefilim administrators gave Stryzhak access to the Nefilim ransomware code in exchange for 20 percent of his ransom proceeds. He operated the ransomware through his account on the online Nefilim platform, known as the “panel.” When he first obtained access to the panel, Stryzhak asked a co‑conspirator whether he should choose a different username from the one he used in other criminal activities in case the panel “gets hacked into by the feds.”

Nefilim’s preferred ransomware targets were companies located in the United States, Canada, or Australia with more than $100 million in annual revenue. Stryzhak and others researched the companies to which they gained unauthorized access, including by using online databases to gather information about the victim companies’ net worth, size, and contact information. In one exchange with Stryzhak in or about July 2021, a Nefilim administrator encouraged him to target companies in these countries with more than $200 million in annual revenue.

After gaining sufficient access to the victims’ networks, Stryzhak and his co‑conspirators stole data in furtherance of their scheme to extort ransom payments from them. Nefilim ransom notes typically threatened the victims that unless they came to an agreement with the ransomware actors, the stolen data would be published on publicly accessible “Corporate Leaks” websites, which were maintained by Nefilim administrators.

The charges in the indictment are allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted of the charge, Stryzhak faces up to five years’ imprisonment.

The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s National Security and Cybercrime Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Alexander F. Mindlin and Ellen H. Sise of the Eastern District of New York and Trial Attorney Brian Mund of the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Rebecca Roth.

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The farmers market will be held from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday beginning May 24 through Sept. 27.

This year, the market will feature more than 70 vendors, ranging from artisans and crafters to bakers and farmers. For a complete list of vendors, visit crownpoint.info/farmersmarket.

“Since opening applications over the winter, we have received an overwhelming response from vendors. We have nearly 80 vendors this year, with a handful of vendors on a waiting list,” said Special Events Director Diana Bosse. “We are excited for another year of welcoming artisans, farmers and vendors from across Northwest Indiana and beyond.”

The farmers market offers something for everyone. On select days, the Southlake YMCA will offer outdoor yoga or Tai Ci from 9-10 a.m. on the artificial turf in front of the Franciscan Health Amphitheater at Bulldog Park. There will be no yoga on May 31 as the Market will move to the front parking lot of Wheeler Middle School due to the Corn Roast.

There will not be a farmers market on Saturday, July 19, due to The Taste of Crown Point.

The market will close at noon on June 21, Aug. 16, Aug. 23 and Sept. 13.

VENDOR LIST:

• 219 Health Network

• A & V Meals 2 Go, LLC

• AJ Specialties

• Annies Kettle Creations

• Aster and Main Boutique

• Aurora B Boutique

• Bak House

• Bella Luna Designs

• Bella’s Bracelets

• BIGGBY COFFEE 109th

• Cathy Szulczewski Independent Rep

• Christine’s Jewelry Designs

• Clarke Family Farms

• Crown Town Crochet

• Crumble Crochet

• Crumbles – A Bake Shop

• Curved

• Daily Grind Coffee

• Dawnsdesign

• Donut NV

• Dunes Young Marines

• Earthly Variations

• Explicitly Yours

• Frape Cafe

• Gazillion Greens

• Grandma Irma Sauces

• Great Harvest Crown Point

• Hello Honey

• www.crownpoint.in.gov

• Henning’s Farm & Greenhouse

• Heritage Homestead Farms, LLC

• Hidden Acres Family Farm LLC

• Home Sweet Hive CP

• Ink.paper.scissors

• It’s Worth Traveling

• Janey Farms

• JMacs Kitchen

• JT Charcuterie Boards LLC

• Justin Ray Culinary

• Kauffman Chiropractic

• Kevin’s Pretzel Factory

• Lake County Historical Society

• Lather Me Up Soaps

• Lebanese Grape Leaves

• Lori K Bath

• MacraMade by Dre

• Majestic Care St. Anthony’s

• Mama Frazz

• Mex Designs

• Miss Mary’s Macs

• Nevaeh Cosmeticx

• Nicole Clark Flemming LLC DBA 360 Degree Change

• Old Things Into New Building

• Pam’s Crafts & Creations

• Paper Hugs by JLR

• Paperpie Books

• Parra Farms

• Pebbles Soda Co

• Pink Flamingo Cotton Candy

• Realest.com

• Represent Sports

• Rifai Dental Group

• RONDI’S Curiosities

• Sand Piper

• Scentsy

• Scribbles & Sketches

• Sophisticated Scrunchies

• SS. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral

• Stamper Cheese Company

• Tacobuchon

• Tacos Chel

• Tellez Woodworks

• The Wandering Wildflower

• The Wild Dragonfly Events

• Tina Lee Boutique

• Trudy Lou

• Truly Teas

• Uniquely Nico

• Van Drunen Outdoor Living

• Vivid Art by Regina

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The Lowell, Shelby and Schneider Libraries will be closed Friday, May 9 and Monday, May 26

ORAL HISTORY WORKSHOP

The Three Creeks Historical Society and the Lowell Public Library is pleased to host a 6-part workshop series led by local writer and documentarian Samuel Love. This series is funded through the Lifelong Arts fellowship by the Indiana Arts Commission and will be held every Friday between May 2 and June 6 from 10:30 AM-12 PM.

Registration for each week’s session is available at our website.

This workshop will demonstrate how an oral history approach can be valuable beyond academic contexts. It will also appeal to genealogists, family historians, and podcasters, making it suitable for families and people of all ages. Love will stress preparation at every stage of the process: before, during, and after the interview. He'll share tips from over 25 years of practice, from shaping a project, ethical considerations, thoughts on being a better listener, the impact of technology, and strategies for publishing and archiving the results. "If you don't tell your history, someone else might."

Samuel Love is the editor of The Gary Anthology (Belt Publishing, 2020) and producer of the award-winning documentary shorts Calumet: The Region's River (2022) and Grown In Gary (2024) for Indiana Humanities.

45th ANNUAL STUDENT ART EXHIBIT

The Friends of the Lowell Library invite you to witness the creativity and imagination of elementary grade students from the Tri-Creek area. The library will host an art exhibition from May 5 to May 10, showcasing a wide range of artworks created by the young artists in acrylics, 3D, watercolors, chalks, and computer graphics.

The students will receive certificates of achievement for their efforts, which will be distributed the following week when their artwork is returned to their school.

A special reception will be held on Wednesday, May 7, at 6:00 PM to honor the young artists and their families. During the reception, Friends members will offer refreshments, and children from grades K-4 who attend the event can participate in a drawing for a chance to win art supplies. Special thanks to Aunt Nae’s for balloon donations.

Adults – Lowell

Knit & Crochet - Every Thursday in May, 9 AM.

Meet up to knit and crochet, and share patterns and tips.

Senior Social – Bird Houses - Thursday, May 1 at 11 AM.

It’s our last get-together until September. Join us to paint a birdhouse. Limit of 25. Pre-register.

Simple Stamping - Thursday, May 1 at 5:30 PM.

Make two cards with envelopes. A $7 fee, payable at class, will cover all materials. Limit 12. Pre-register at our website.

Book Club - Monday, May 12 at 1-3 PM.

Read, then meet to discuss Under the Southern Sky, written by Kristy Woodson Harvey.

Drop-In Tech Help - Wednesday, May 14 from 10 AM-12 PM.

Do you have a question about how to use your phone, tablet, laptop, or computer? Stop in during our drop-in hours and ask for Amanda—she will work with you to find the answer! (First come, first served)

Poetry - Saturday, May 17 from 10 AM-12 PM.

Aspiring poets can join the NW Indiana Poetry Society. Bring your work or that of your favorite poet.

Adult Coloring - Tuesday, May 20 at 10 AM.

Join the fun! Coloring helps us de-stress and stimulates brain areas related to motor skills. All supplies will be provided, or you may bring your own.

Library Board Meets - Tuesday, May 20 at 6 PM.

The regular meeting of the Lowell Public Library Board of Trustees will be held.

Canasta - Wednesday, May 21 at 12-3 PM.

Get together and play this fun card game. Don’t know how? We can teach you!

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY NEWS

Loven Oven Fundraiser - Thursday, May 8 at 4-9 PM

Order from Loven Oven 1000 E. Commercial Ave. (219) 696-6828. Every pizza order during those hours will benefit our library!

$3.00 Bag Book Sale - Saturday, May 31 from 9 AM to 4:30 PM.

Get a bag of books for $3.00 a bag, the last Saturday of each month. You may bring your brown grocery bag or ask for one at the circulation desk.

Children’s (birth-5^th grade) – Lowell

Tales for Tails Therapy Dog Visits - Tuesday, May 6,20 and 27 from 4 to 5 PM.

Read or just visit with a certified therapy dog! This is a fun program where children can practice their reading skills while cozying up with a loveable pup. Registration is required and opens on Monday, April 21.

Young Adult/ Teens (grades 5-12) – Lowell

Soap Making - Thursday, May 1 at 5:30 PM.

Make your own soap. Customize with a variety of colors and scents. Pre-register to ensure an adequate amount of supplies.

Fire Safety and Campfire Fun - Wednesday, May 14 at 5:30 PM.

Learn the ins and outs of fire safety and how to build, maintain, and properly extinguish a campfire.

Roast marshmallows and make s’mores while hearing spooky stories from local storyteller and author of Haunted Indiana, Mark Marimen.

This program is for students 5-12 grade ONLY. For safety reasons, DO NOT sign up younger children.

Registration opens on April 23. (Rain date Wednesday, May 21.)

SHELBY BRANCH LIBRARY – 23323 SHELBY ROAD –SHELBY, IN 46377 219-552-0809

Adults - Shelby

Over 18 Game Days - Monday, May 5, 12, and 19, all at 4 PM.

Get together to play cards or board games.

Coffee & Conversation - Saturday, May 10 and 24 at 10 AM.

Stop in for a cup of coffee. Stay for a chat.

Adult Book Discussion - Thursday, May 15 at 4 PM.

Read, then meet to discuss The Housemaid, written by Freida McFadden.

Movies for Grown-Ups - Saturday, May 17 at 10 AM.

Enjoy a morning movie at the library. Title to be determined.

Children’s – Shelby

Kids Independent Crafts - Tuesday, May 6 at 4:30 PM.

Make something amazing using your imagination and our craft supplies.

Kids Game Day - Tuesday, May 13 at 4:30 PM.

Play board games.

Kids Craft - Tuesday, May 20 at 4:30 PM.

Celebrate Amelia Earhart Day by creating and coloring paper airplanes.

Kids Wii Games - Tuesday, May 27 at 4:30 PM.

Play a variety of Wii games with your friends.

Young Adult /Teens (grades 5-12) – Shelby

YA Independent Crafts - Wednesday, May 7 at 4:30 PM.

Be creative with our supplies.

YA with Miss Emily - Thursday, May 8 at 4:30 PM.

Make soap with your choice of color and scent.

YA Movie & Cookies - Wednesday, May 14 at 4:30 PM.

Watch a fun movie. Enjoy chocolate chip cookies!

YA Craft - Wednesday, May 21 at 4:30 PM.

Paint a patriotic wooden star.

YA Games - Wednesday, May 28 at 4:30 PM.

Play board games.

SCHNEIDER BRANCH LIBRARY– 24002 PARRISH AVE – SCHNEIDER, IN 46376 219-552-1000

Adults – Schneider

Adult Ceramics - Monday, May 12 at 6 PM.

Paint a Highland Cow. You MUST sign up ahead of time to attend.

Garden Series - Sat. May 24 from 10 AM to 12 PM.

We will be giving away daylilies. Learn how to plant and care for them. Please sign up so we know how many to expect.

Children’s – Schneider

Kids Craft - Tuesday, May 6 at 4:30 PM.

Make a paper flower basket.

Kids Bird Feeder Craft - Tuesday, May 13 at 4:30 PM.

Make a bird feeder using craft sticks.

Kids Pick-A-Craft - Tuesday, May 20 at 4:30 PM.

Choose a craft using supplies we have on hand.

Young Adult /Teens (grades 5-12) – Schneider

Young Adult Craft - Wednesday. May 7 at 4:30 PM.

Make a string art flower jar.

Young Adult Pizza - Wednesday, May 14 at 4:30 PM.

Enjoy a free slice of pizza and stay for a chat.

Young Adult Game Day - Wednesday, May 21 at 4:30 PM.

Play board games with your friends.

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This year’s sale begins Thursday, June 12, and goes through Sunday, June 15.

Crown Point residents are invited to register their home for the sale by visiting crownpoint.info/sale. Entries are due by Monday, June 9.

All entries and a map of the sale will be posted on the City of Crown Point’s website, www.crownpoint.in.gov, and the City of Crown Point Facebook page, @CityofCrownPointIN.

For more information, call the Crown Point PACE Department at 219-661-2271.

The government’s complaint, filed on Jan. 16 and amended April 18 in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, alleges that from approximately August 2012 through March 1, 2023, Walgreens, one of the nation’s largest pharmacy chains, knowingly filled millions of unlawful controlled substance prescriptions. These unlawful prescriptions included prescriptions for excessive quantities of opioids, opioid prescriptions filled significantly early, and prescriptions for the especially dangerous and abused combination of three drugs known as a “trinity.” Walgreens pharmacists allegedly filled these prescriptions despite clear “red flags” indicating a high likelihood that the prescriptions were invalid because they lacked a legitimate medical purpose or were not issued in the usual course of professional practice.

The complaint further alleges that Walgreens pressured its pharmacists to fill prescriptions quickly and without taking the time needed to confirm that each prescription was lawful. Walgreens’s compliance officials also allegedly ignored substantial evidence that its stores were dispensing unlawful prescriptions and even intentionally deprived its own pharmacists of crucial information, including by refusing to share internal data regarding prescribers with pharmacists and preventing pharmacists from warning one another about certain problematic prescribers.

In light of Friday’s settlement, the United States has moved to dismiss its complaint. Walgreens will also move to dismiss a related declaratory judgment action filed in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas.

“Pharmacies have a legal responsibility to prescribe controlled substances in a safe and professional manner, not dispense dangerous drugs just for profit,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This Department of Justice is committed to ending the opioid crisis and holding bad actors accountable for their failure to protect patients from addiction.”

“This settlement holds Walgreens accountable for failing to comply with its critical responsibility to prevent the diversion of opioids and other controlled substances,” said John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York. “The settlement also underscores our Office’s continued commitment to ensure that all persons and businesses that fill controlled-substance prescriptions adhere to the requirements of the Controlled Substances Act that are designed to prevent highly addictive medications from being used for illegitimate purposes.”

“This settlement resolves allegations that, for years, Walgreens failed to meet its obligations when dispensing dangerous opioids and other drugs,” said Deputy Assistant Attorney General Michael Granston of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We will continue to hold accountable those entities and individuals whose actions contributed to the opioid crisis, whether through illegal prescribing, marketing, dispensing, or distributing activities.”

In addition to the monetary payments announced today, Walgreens has entered into agreements with DEA and HHS-OIG to address its future obligations in dispensing controlled substances. Walgreens and DEA entered into a Memorandum of Agreement that requires the company to implement and maintain certain compliance measures for the next seven years. Walgreens must maintain policies and procedures requiring pharmacists to confirm the validity of controlled substance prescriptions prior to dispensing controlled substances, provide annual training to pharmacy employees regarding their legal obligations relating to controlled substances, verify that pharmacy staffing is sufficient to enable pharmacy employees to comply with those legal obligations, and maintain a system for blocking prescriptions from prescribers whom Walgreens becomes aware are writing illegitimate controlled substance prescriptions. Walgreens has also entered into a five-year Corporate Integrity Agreement with HHS-OIG, which further requires Walgreens to establish and maintain a compliance program that includes written policies and procedures, training, board oversight, and periodic reporting to HHS-OIG related to Walgreens’s dispensing of controlled substances.

The civil settlement resolves four cases brought under the qui tam, or whistleblower, provisions of the FCA by former Walgreens employees. The FCA authorizes whistleblowers to sue on behalf of the United States and receive a share of any recovery. It also permits the United States to intervene and take over such lawsuits, as it did here. The relators will receive a 17.25% share of the government’s FCA recovery in this matter.

The claims asserted against defendants are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.

The United States’ pursuit of this matter underscores the government’s commitment to combating health care fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to HHS, at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).

The United States is represented in this matter by attorneys from the Justice Department’s Civil Division Consumer Protection Branch (Assistant Director Amy DeLine and Trial Attorney Nicole Frazer) and Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section (Assistant Director Natalie Waites and Trial Attorney Joshua Barron), as well as from the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Northern District of Illinois (Assistant U.S. Attorney Valerie R. Raedy), Middle District of Florida (Chief of the Civil Division Randy Harwell and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carolyn Tapie), District of Maryland (Chief of the Civil Division Thomas Corcoran), Eastern District of New York (Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliot M. Schachner) and Eastern District of Virginia (Assistant U.S. Attorney John Beerbower). Fraud Section senior financial analyst Karen Sharp provided support for the matter.

The DEA, HHS-OIG, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Defense Health Agency (DHA), Office of Personnel Management (OPM), Department of Labor (DOL) Office of Inspector General, Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Office of Inspector General, FBI Chicago Field Office, and the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Colorado, Southern District of California, Eastern District of California, Northern District of California, Eastern District of Washington, Southern District of Alabama, Southern District of Illinois, Central District of Illinois, District of Arizona, Western District of Texas, Northern District of Texas, District of Puerto Rico, and Eastern District of Louisiana provided substantial assistance in the investigation.

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Jasper County- This afternoon at approximately 1:00 p.m., troopers responded to a vehicle fire on I-65 southbound lanes at the 231 mile-marker. This location is one mile north of the exit to Demotte/Roselawn (exit 230). Preliminary investigation shows that a 2021 Volvo, operated by Swift Transportation, was southbound on I-65 when the driver pulled over due to a mechanical problem with the vehicle. When the vehicle stopped, the driver noticed the brakes on one side of the tractor were glowing red and started on fire. The driver attempted to put out the fire with a fire extinguisher from her cab; however, the fire had already spread to the vehicle. The fire quickly spread to the trailer and consumed the cab and trailer. The cargo, paint cans, ignited and caused an intense fire that quickly spread to the adjacent trees and even caught the asphalt roadway surface on fire. The driver of the semi was not injured.

Keener Twp Fire, Lowell Fire, Wheatfield Fire, Hebron Fire, Rensselaer Fire and Marion Township Fire were all dispatched to assist with containing the scene. Lake County HazMat and Newton County EMA also responded to the scene. Response Management Services (RMS) also responded to the scene to remove the contaminated materials and dirt.

At one point, north and southbound lanes were all closed due to the smoke and dangerous situation and southbound traffic was diverted off the interstate at S.R. 2 (exit 240). Once the fire was extinguished, northbound lanes were reopened; however, southbound lanes remained closed. One southbound lane was eventually able to be opened and traffic that had been caught in the backup was alleviated. Once that traffic cleared the scene, the southbound lanes were again closed and remain closed.

As of the writing of this release, the scene has been cleared of the burned vehicle and all debris. INDOT has contacted Reith-Riley to replace a large section of asphalt that had irreparable damage from the fire. That repair is anticipated to be completed at approximately 4:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 22^nd. Southbound traffic remains diverted at S.R. 2. Updates will be posted on INDOT’s social media pages as well as the Indiana State Police Lowell Post social media pages when the roadway has been reopened.

*Video of the fire can be found on the Indiana State Police Lowell Post Facebook and X accounts*

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On April 16, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Chicago District, joined Congressman Frank J. Mrvan (IN-01) and officials from the Town of Hebron to break ground on a vital water infrastructure improvement project that will replace nearly 9,000 feet of aging and deteriorating water mains. The project will improve water quality, increase fire protection capabilities, and ensure reliable water service for the town’s residents for years to come.

Funded through a combination of federal and local investments under Section 219 of the Water Resources Development Act, the project will replace outdated, inaccessible water mains that have caused frequent service disruptions. The improvements include the installation of approximately 4,200 feet of 8-inch diameter water main, 4,850 feet of 6-inch diameter water main, and associated appurtenances.

Congressman Frank J. Mrvan praised the project as a model of collaboration, stating,

“Congratulations to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the leaders of the Town of Hebron on this collaborative effort to improve our local infrastructure and the quality of life in our region. This unified initiative to replace outdated pipes will improve our water quality and invest in the health and safety of children and families throughout Northwest Indiana.”

Felicia Kirksey-Harris, USACE Chicago District’s Chief of Programs and Project Management, also emphasized the broader importance of the project during the ceremony.

“Today’s groundbreaking marks the start of something bigger than a construction project. It’s a testament to the power of partnership and the shared responsibility we all have to build stronger, more resilient communities,” says Kirksey-Harris.

The $3.98 million construction contract was awarded to Grimmer Construction, Inc., of Highland, Indiana. Construction began in March 2025 and will continue through the year. The Town of Hebron provided a 25% cash match and additional funding to fully realize the project's scope.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Chicago District, remains committed to working alongside local communities to deliver high-impact, sustainable infrastructure solutions that improve public health, safety, and quality of life across the region.

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Groundbreaking for this extension will begin at 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 22, at theintersection of Grant St. And Monitor St.

“The city was awarded a grant for this extension through the State of Indiana’s Next Level Trails program” stated Mayor Peter Land, “We are looking forward to completing this part of the trail.” Gariup Construction was awarded the bid for the second phase of this expansion. Trail will be opened this fall.

For more information, call Parks Director, Jennie Burgess at 219-661-2271 or emailjburgess@crownpoint.in.gov.

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The Ball Diamond Sports Festival will be held in conjunction with this year’s opening ceremonies and parade for the City of Crown Point Girls Softball league and Cal Ripken Baseball.

The opening parade will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 3, in front of Commonwealth Engineers, 19 N. Court St. The parade will end at Bulldog Park, 183 S. West St. Players and their families are invited to Bulldog Park for remarks from Mayor Pete Land and fun at the Ball Diamond Sports Festival. The festival will feature vendors and foodtrucks. The festival will be from 9:30 a.m. to noon.

“We’re excited to celebrate the opening of both youth softball and baseball in Crown Point,” Crown Point Mayor Pete Land said. “Last year’s event brought hundreds of players and their families to Bulldog Park. We’re looking forward to kicking off the 2025 season.”

For more information, call Athletics at 219-661-2271, option 2, or email athletics@crownpoint.in.gov.

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Koskela was sentenced to 144 months in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $83,500 in restitution to the victims of the offense.

According to documents in the case, from September 10, 2023, through January 21, 2024, Koskela knowingly distributed child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (Chicago and Charlotte), with assistance from the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Indiana State Police, the Indiana State Police Digital Forensics Unit, the Cedar Lake Police Department, and the Boone Police Department, Boone, North Carolina. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan.

The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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Robinson was sentenced to one year of probation and ordered to pay $11,200 in restitution. Robinson had previously resigned her position as Calumet Township Trustee.

According to documents in the case, Robinson served as the elected Calumet Township Trustee from 2015 to 2024. The Calumet Township Trustee’s Office is a local governmental entity whose primary mission is to provide public assistance to individuals and families in need. In her position as Trustee, Robinson illegally used approximately $11,200 of Township assistance funds, to pay rent for her own personal residence from funds that were meant to be disbursed to aid people in need.

Robinson pled guilty pursuant to a plea agreement to resolve the criminal charges. By resigning and entering into a plea agreement before being indicted, Robinson demonstrated that she accepted responsibility for her criminal conduct

The public is reminded it may contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (usainn.pctips@usdoj.gov) or the FBI in Merrillville, Indiana at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) if they have information to report related to public corruption within the Northern District of Indiana.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the United States Postal Inspection Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin F. Wolff and Philip C. Benson.

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