Book of Golden Deeds Award Recipient
September 16, 2025
Guest Speakers for today’s “Book of Golden Deeds” event were:
Pastor DeWayne Hurt-LaPorte Covenant Outreach Ministries.
Denise Blau-LaPorte County Convention & Visitors' Bureau.
Jack Arnett-CEO LaPorte County Convention & Visitors' Bureau.
Dale Cooper addressed the audience after the guest speakers praised her accomplishments. She thanked the club for recognizing her efforts through today’s award presentation. Dale is the Curator and Visitor Information Center Manager, for the Visit Michigan City LaPorte tourism information center. She is on the board of the Lubeznik Center for the Arts and is excited to be helping children develop an interest in the arts and supporting them as they grow. It was noted earlier in the speaker’s comments about Dale’s volunteerism—she is associated with more than twenty local groups striving to make our community a better place to live. Current projects include:
Street Smart - where youth groups assist senior citizens.
The Center for Creative Solutions - exploring the community.
MC Public Arts Committee - showcasing local art.
LaPorte County Historical Society - fundraiser
The Nest Homeless Shelter - a grant to provide meals for a year.
African American Museum - preserve the African American cultural heritage.
The Michigan City Exchange Club is happy to have club president, Dave Bobinski, present Dale Cooper with
the Book of Golden Deeds Award!
Information on local events can be found at : www.michigancitylaporte.com

Pastor DeWayne Hurt, LaPorte Outreach Ministries

Denise Blau, LaPorte County Convention & Visitors' Bureau

Jack Arnett, CEO LaPorte County Convention &
Visitors' Bureau
Exchangite of the Year
Tim Mellen, President, presents Dave Bobinski with the Exchangite of the Year Award. Dave has devoted considerable time and effort, managing committees and organizing fund raising events, to ensure the success of the club. Thank you for your Contribution to the Community, Dave!
The Day in Court Program is a cooperative effort between the Michigan City Exchange Club and Local Courts. Elementary and High School students visit criminal court and observe the workings of the Judicial System. This year, sixth grade classes from area schools visited Superior Court 1, Judge Jaime Oss. Students were asked to submit an essay detailing their experiences. Judge Oss selected the best essays. The winners received an engraved plaque, a pass to the zoo, and school sports passes for the ’25 – ’26 year.
The Day in Court Program was originated by the Michigan City Club and has been adopted by the National Exchange Club. It is practiced by hundreds of clubs, nationwide.
Judge Jaime Oss with Dan Granquist
01/13
Sara Krachinski MC Parks Interim Athletic Director
Shannon Eason MC Parks Superintendent
2024 Public Safety Awards
Winners - Left to Right
EMS of the Year: Jeff Turner
Firefighter of the year: Brian Gonzalez
Police Officer(s) of the year:
Corporal Matthew Babcock
Detective Patrick Lewis
Exchange Club President: Tim Mellen
Recipients are chosen for their outstanding commitment to our community.
We thank you for your service.
Book of Golden Deeds Recipient
Tim Mellen, President of the Michigan City Exchange Club, presents Harrison Holtkamp, Executive Director of NEST Community Shelter, with the Book of Golden Deeds Award for his many years of service providing food, shelter and hope for needy people in the Michigan City Area.
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