During the Michigan City Common Council meeting on June 17, 2025, Councilman Brian Dattin received the prestigious Community Spirit Award from the Indiana Black Expo, a recognition that took him by surprise. Dattin shared his emotional experience at the award ceremony, where he was honored for his extensive community involvement, including organizing workshops to help residents apply for community development block grants and leading neighborhood cleanups. He expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the importance of education as an equalizer and his commitment to helping young people navigate the college application process.
In addition to Dattin's heartfelt moment, the meeting highlighted the success of the recent Michigan City Pride Fest, which attracted around 5,000 attendees, marking its sixth year. Councilwoman Lee praised the efforts of the parks department and maintenance crew for their contributions to the festival's smooth operation.
Looking ahead, the council announced a Juneteenth celebration at the Guy Foreman Amphitheatre, featuring a performance by the Michigan City Municipal Band and spoken word by Karnaisa Carnes. This event aims to honor the significance of Juneteenth and will take place earlier than usual at 4:30 PM.
The meeting also included a public inquiry about upcoming budget hearings, indicating community interest in local governance and financial transparency. As the council continues to engage with residents, these discussions reflect a commitment to fostering community spirit and inclusivity in Michigan City.