Latest news with #Plastic
The Star
2 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Malaysia's role in the global effort in the war against plastic
As we approach World Ocean Day 2025, the theme 'Confronting the Escalating Plastic Waste Crisis' resonates deeply with the global community. Malaysia, a significant player in the plastic waste narrative, finds itself at the crossroads of being both a producer and a recipient of plastic waste. This opinion piece explores Malaysia's role in the global plastic waste crisis, emphasising the impact on ocean health and marine pollution. Malaysia's role in the global plastic waste crisis Malaysia plays a dual role: as a producer of plastic waste and a recipient of imported plastic waste. After China's 2018 ban on plastic waste imports, Malaysia became one of the top destinations for global plastic waste, particularly from developed countries. Domestically, high consumption of single-use plastics and limited recycling infrastructure exacerbate the issue. The influx of plastic waste has led to significant marine pollution, affecting the health of our oceans. Systemic weaknesses in waste management Malaysia's waste management system faces several challenges: relatively low recycling rates due to poor segregation at source, inadequate infrastructure for processing and recycling, and reliance on the informal sector, which lacks regulation and safety. Recent improvements include the Malaysia Plastics Sustainability Roadmap 2021–2030, but progress is slow compared to the scale of the problem. These systemic weaknesses contribute to the escalating plastic waste crisis, with significant amounts ending up in the oceans. The partial adoption of the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act 672 in seven out of Malaysia's 14 states contributes to the disparity in service levels, awareness, and cleanliness between states. Corporate accountability Corporate accountability remains limited. While some companies report sustainability efforts, enforcement and transparency are lacking. Many businesses still rely heavily on plastic packaging and do not disclose the full lifecycle impacts of their products. True corporate responsibility involves measurable targets for plastic reduction, supply chain transparency, and investment in alternatives and infrastructure. Beyond CSR and green marketing Most Malaysian companies are still in the early stages of sustainability. Efforts often focus on symbolic CSR activities rather than systemic changes. Few have adopted circular economy principles or redesigned products to minimise plastic use across the value chain. Genuine corporate leadership involves measurable goals, transparent disclosures and long-term commitment. Genuine corporate leadership versus greenwashing True leadership involves measurable targets for plastic reduction, transparent supply chains, and investment in alternatives. Greenwashing, by contrast, relies on vague claims and superficial branding with minimal impact. Independent audits and third-party certifications can help distinguish genuine efforts from hollow marketing. Promising innovations Innovations with strong potential in Malaysia include biodegradable packaging from palm waste or seaweed, refillable and reusable systems in retail, and AI-driven sorting technologies for recycling. Scaling these solutions requires both government incentives and private sector investment to reduce the amount of plastic entering the ocean. Supporting reusable and compostable models Waste systems can support this transition by standardising compostable materials, creating refill stations and reverse logistics, and educating consumers on proper disposal. Public-private partnerships are key to building the necessary infrastructure. By supporting reusable and compostable models, we can reduce the plastic waste burden on our oceans. Imported plastic waste Imported waste adds to Malaysia's burden, often arriving contaminated or mislabeled. Enforcement of import bans and stricter customs checks are needed. Malaysia has begun returning illegal shipments, but loopholes remain. Addressing the issue of imported plastic waste is crucial to protecting our marine environments. Government-private sector collaboration Effective collaboration could include Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes, tax incentives for sustainable packaging, and marine clean-up programmes co-funded by industry. Investments in waste-to-energy plants and advanced recycling would deliver tangible benefits. While independent associations such as MAREA have support from multinational companies, formalising regulation and cooperation between NGOs and government agencies will be crucial in building a workable and sustainable EPR system. Lessons from other countries Malaysia can learn from South Korea's strict waste segregation laws, Germany's EPR and deposit-return systems, and Indonesia's community-based plastic banks. These models show that combining policy, technology and community engagement is essential for success. By adopting best practices from other countries, Malaysia can enhance its efforts to protect ocean health. Conclusion As we confront the escalating plastic waste crisis, it is imperative that Malaysia takes decisive action to protect our oceans. By addressing systemic weaknesses, enhancing corporate accountability, supporting innovative solutions, and fostering government-private sector collaboration, Malaysia can play a pivotal role in the global effort to reduce plastic waste and safeguard marine environments for future generations.
Time of India
22-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Chicalim p'yat to reassess homes to revise tax rate
Vasco: The gram sabha of the Chicalim panchayat on Sunday resolved to reassess houses within its jurisdiction. Chicalim sarpanch Kamla Prasad Yadav said that the move would help generate revenue. 'The panchayat imposed the house tax 25-30 years ago and was collecting it as stipulated by the old rates,' Yadav said. 'A majority of the houses in our jurisdiction have expanded their premises but have been paying taxes as governed by the old rates.' Yadav said, 'The reassessment would help us generate additional revenue, making the financial position of the panchayat stronger.' In yet another resolution, gram sabha decided to remove all the handcarts and gaddas operating illegally in the vicinity of the Vishal Mega Mart complex at Dabolim. The gram sabha has also resolved to set up an old age home at Chicalim. Chicalim panchayat has bagged the first place in the Best Environmental Practices Competition for local bodies under the UN Environment Programme's theme of 'Ending Plastic Pollution Globally'. This was noted in the panchayat's congratulatory motion.
Yahoo
20-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Barcode Plastic Cards Global Strategic Business Report 2025: Market to Reach $2.1 Billion by 2030 - Eco-Friendly Recyclable and Biodegradable Card Options Gain Traction in Sustainable Procurement
The Global Barcode Plastic Cards Market is set to grow from US$1.5 Billion in 2024 to US$2.1 Billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 6.3%. This comprehensive analysis highlights key market trends and drivers, emphasizing the role of barcode plastic cards in secure identification, access control, and transactional efficiency across sectors. Key growth drivers include increasing demand in healthcare, retail, and government sectors, adoption of QR-based functionalities, and advancements in print technologies. The report also addresses the impact of global tariff developments on the market, offering valuable insights for future industry planning. Barcode Plastic Cards Market Dublin, June 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Barcode Plastic Cards - Global Strategic Business Report" report has been added to global market for Barcode Plastic Cards was estimated at US$1.5 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$2.1 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.3% from 2024 to 2030. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of market trends, drivers, and forecasts, helping you make informed business decisions. The report includes the most recent global tariff developments and how they impact the Barcode Plastic Cards market. Barcode plastic cards continue to play a foundational role in a wide array of transactional, identification, and access control applications where fast, contactless, and secure data retrieval is essential. These cards integrate machine-readable barcodes typically 1D or 2D symbologies such as Code 128 or QR codes on durable plastic substrates, enabling reliable scanning across retail, healthcare, education, transportation, and government use cases. Their simplicity, cost-efficiency, and widespread scanner compatibility make them indispensable in both high-throughput and distributed operational environments. What Are the Factors Driving Growth in the Barcode Plastic Cards Market?The barcode plastic cards market is expanding as organizations seek cost-efficient, durable, and interoperable solutions for identification, access, and transactional functionality across high-volume and mission-critical environments. Their low complexity, high compatibility, and adaptability to hybrid systems continue to drive utility across growth drivers include increasing deployment in healthcare, retail, government ID, and transit systems; rising adoption of QR-based functionality; improved print technologies; and growing preference for modular, multi-format credentials. Advances in materials and sustainability initiatives are further shaping procurement priorities and product organizations navigate the intersection of physical identity, digital access, and data security, could barcode plastic cards remain a key enabler of scalable, secure, and seamless user engagement across an increasingly hybrid credentialing ecosystem?Which Industry Sectors, Deployment Environments, and Compliance Mandates Are Driving Barcode Plastic Card Demand?Retail and hospitality sectors remain key adopters of barcode plastic cards, using them extensively for loyalty programs, gift cards, membership identification, and promotional campaigns. These cards enable frictionless customer engagement and data capture, while offering brand visibility through wallet-sized, customizable formats. With omnichannel strategies expanding, barcode cards continue to serve as physical touchpoints that integrate with digital rewards systems and CRM healthcare, barcode plastic cards are used for patient ID, prescription management, and insurance verification supporting secure, traceable, and HIPAA-compliant workflows. Hospitals and clinics favor barcode cards for their simplicity, non-intrusive scanning, and ability to interface with EHR systems without reliance on network connectivity. Educational institutions are similarly deploying barcode-enabled ID cards for attendance tracking, library access, meal plan authentication, and campus security and transportation agencies are scaling usage of barcode cards for voter IDs, public transit fare systems, and public assistance programs. These cards provide cost-effective alternatives to contact chip-based cards, especially in emerging economies or high-volume issuance scenarios. Regulatory requirements around data security, user authentication, and service eligibility verification are also influencing the adoption of barcode cards as compliant, easily verifiable instruments in identity-sensitive Are Sustainability Initiatives, Digital Integration Trends, and On-Demand Issuance Models Influencing Market Evolution?Sustainability concerns are prompting a shift toward eco-friendly card materials and production processes. Manufacturers are exploring recyclable PVC alternatives, biodegradable substrates, and solvent-free inks to align with institutional ESG goals and procurement standards. In response, environmentally conscious organizations are increasingly prioritizing low-carbon footprint card options that do not compromise functionality or brand convergence is driving demand for barcode cards that can serve as both physical identifiers and digital access enablers. Cards now commonly include printed QR codes that link to mobile apps, online portals, or cloud-based service platforms allowing seamless interaction between physical credentials and digital interfaces. In scenarios such as visitor management, event ticketing, or health record access, barcode cards serve as tangible tokens of identity while enabling real-time digital engagement and data issuance models are gaining traction across retail, campus, and event environments, with decentralized desktop printers enabling real-time card personalization. This model reduces lead times, allows instant activation, and supports last-minute changes in credentialing a key advantage in dynamic environments such as trade shows, conferences, or temporary facilities. Combined with centralized issuance for large-volume needs, hybrid fulfillment models are providing greater flexibility and responsiveness in barcode card deployment Insights: Market Growth: Understand the significant growth trajectory of the Magnetic Stripe Card segment, which is expected to reach US$1.2 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of a 7.1%. The Smart Card segment is also set to grow at 5.5% CAGR over the analysis period. Regional Analysis: Gain insights into the U.S. market, valued at $405.1 Million in 2024, and China, forecasted to grow at an impressive 10.0% CAGR to reach $442.3 Million by 2030. Discover growth trends in other key regions, including Japan, Canada, Germany, and the Asia-Pacific. Report Features: Comprehensive Market Data: Independent analysis of annual sales and market forecasts in US$ Million from 2024 to 2030. In-Depth Regional Analysis: Detailed insights into key markets, including the U.S., China, Japan, Canada, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa. Company Profiles: Coverage of players such as AlphaCard, Barcodes, Inc., CardLogix Corporation, and more. Complimentary Updates: Receive free report updates for one year to keep you informed of the latest market developments. This edition integrates the latest global trade and economic shifts as of June 2025 into comprehensive market analysis. Key updates include: Tariff and Trade Impact: Insights into global tariff negotiations across 180+ countries, with analysis of supply chain turbulence, sourcing disruptions, and geographic realignment. Special focus on 2025 as a pivotal year for trade tensions, including updated perspectives on the Trump-era tariffs. Adjusted Forecasts and Analytics: Revised global and regional market forecasts through 2030, incorporating tariff effects, economic uncertainty, and structural changes in globalization. Includes segmentation by product, technology, type, material, distribution channel, application, and end-use, with historical analysis since 2015. Strategic Market Dynamics: Evaluation of revised market prospects, regional outlooks, and key economic indicators such as population and urbanization trends. Innovation & Technology Trends: Latest developments in product and process innovation, emerging technologies, and key industry drivers shaping the competitive landscape. Competitive Intelligence: Updated global market share estimates for 2025, competitive positioning of major players (Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial), and refined focus on leading global brands and core players. Expert Insight & Commentary: Strategic analysis from economists, trade experts, and domain specialists to contextualize market shifts and identify emerging opportunities. Complimentary Update: Buyers receive a free July 2025 update with finalized tariff impacts, new trade agreement effects, revised projections, and expanded country-level coverage. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 368 Forecast Period 2024 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $1.5 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $2.1 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 6.3% Regions Covered Global MARKET OVERVIEW Influencer Market Insights World Market Trajectories Barcode Plastic Cards - Global Key Competitors Percentage Market Share in 2025 (E) Competitive Market Presence - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial for Players Worldwide in 2025 (E) MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS Rising Need for Identity Verification and Access Control Throws the Spotlight on Barcode-Encoded Plastic Cards Growth in Retail Loyalty, Healthcare, and Membership Programs Spurs Demand for Customizable ID Cards OEM Focus on Durable PVC and Polycarbonate Substrates Enhances Card Lifespan and Security Expansion of POS and Barcode Reader Compatibility Bodes Well for Broad System Integration Use in Transportation, Event Ticketing, and Library Systems Supports Versatile Multi-Sector Applications Growth in Personalized Printing Technologies Enables Rapid In-House Card Production OEM Development of Tamper-Resistant and UV-Coated Cards Supports High-Security Applications Adoption in Educational Institutions and Government Services Enhances Identity Management Growth in Workforce Credentialing and Visitor Management Solutions Drives Demand for Printed ID Cards Demand for Cards With Dual Encoding (Magstripe and Barcode) Expands Functionality Across Access Systems Eco-Friendly Recyclable and Biodegradable Card Options Gain Traction in Sustainable Procurement Integration With CRM and Analytics Platforms Supports Customer Behavior Tracking in Loyalty Programs FOCUS ON SELECT PLAYERS:Some of the 32 companies featured in this report AlphaCard Barcodes, Inc. CardLogix Corporation CPI Card Group Inc. Custom Plastic Card Company DAFTags Smartlabel Technology Co. Duracard Evolis SA Gemalto N.V. HID Global Corporation ID Card Group IDenticard Systems Infocus Sticker Co. Magicard Ltd. Matica Technologies AG NBS Technologies Inc. NewGuard Plastic Cards, LLC Nisca Corporation PlasCards For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Barcode Plastic Cards Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
16-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Community news: Path to Wellness walking series and Literacy social
The Recycling and Waste Reduction District of Porter County is seeking a Compost Site Attendant to join its team in Porter County. This part-time position aids the District in the composting, bulb recovery, battery recycling, drop off recycling and/or electronics recycling programs. Applications are available from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday in the District office. 155 Indiana Ave., Suite 314, Valparaiso. For additional information, call 219-465-3694, or email info@ Residents are invited to step into a healthier summer with the 'Path to Wellness' walking event, a free community program designed to promote physical activity, mental well-being, and nutritional awareness, starting Friday at Oak Ridge Prairie Park in Griffith. The series, organized by Franciscan Health and the Lake County Health Department, will take place every Friday — except July 4th — through August 15. The sessions, held from 9-10:30 a.m., will start with an informative talk on a wellness-related topic, followed by a light warm-up stretch, and then a refreshing walk amidst the natural beauty of Oak Ridge Prairie Park. Preventative health screenings will be offered on the first and last day of the program, and information on mindfulness, nutrition, personal safety, and chronic disease will be shared. Water and a light snack will be provided, and participants are reminded to wear comfortable shoes. Attendees are encouraged to register to help organizers prepare adequate refreshments: Applications are now available to participate in the Chesterton-Porter Rotary Club's Fourth of July Parade. There is no cost to participate in the parade, but a completed application is required. The deadline to apply is Monday. Parade entries will begin assembling at 8 a.m. in the parking lot at Yost Elementary School, 100 W. Beam St., Porter. The Parade will begin at 9 a.m. traveling through the Town of Porter to the day-long Fourth Fest site at Hawthorne Park, 500 Ackerman Drive, Porter. The community is invited for a day of festivities, food and entertainment culminating with fireworks at dusk. For applications and more information, contact Barbara at bblack1888@ or 219-617-6109. The Plastic Reduction Alliance will host an educational meeting aimed at reducing plastic waste and fostering a sustainable future for Northwest Indiana at 6 p.m. Wednesday at Valparaiso University Harre Union, Ballroom A, 1509 Chapel Drive, Valparaiso. The meeting, titled 'The Power of Partnering for Plastic Free Communities,' invites all environmentally conscious individuals and local environmental groups to participate in the discussion. Participants will explore practical strategies for reducing plastic waste in our municipalities through collaboration, education and shared goals. The evening will include: a presentation by the Plastic Reduction Alliance of Northwest Indiana; small group breakout sessions; networking opportunities; and a collective call to action for a more sustainable region. RSVP by emailing ekapitan@ The Gary Literacy Coalition will host the Third Annual Book, Food and Wine Tasting Summer Social from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Arthouse: A Social Kitchen, 411 E. Fifth Ave., Gary. Those attending will each receive a complimentary book. The cost is $60 per person. Register at For more information, call 219-885-2229. Registration is now open for the Franciscan Health Produce Prescription Program in Munster, which aims to assist with chronic disease management. Upon successful completion of the free, six-week program, participants will receive monthly fresh produce vouchers for six months. Participants must have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, heart disease or high blood pressure; have moderate to high food insecurity as determined by a screening process and complete a four-week Cooking Matters course. Participants need not be patients within the Franciscan Health system to participate. The program will meet weekly from 11 a.m. to Noon CT on Thursdays July 10 through Aug. 14 at the Hammond Clinic, Third Floor Room 3060 B, 7905 Calumet Ave., Munster. The deadline to register is Friday. To register and for more information, contact Insydia Rivera at or call 219-323-2225. The public is invited to attend a special story hour and author visit by Carolyn McCrady from 10 a.m. to Noon Monday at the Main Library 220 W. Fifth Ave., Gary. McCrady is the author of 'Working Class Cats for Peace,' a story that resonates with children as well as adults. The book provides a simple but interesting way to talk about friendship and loyalty among children, and promote the idea that when we harm each other, we are harming ourselves. McCrady is a retired high school English and journalism teacher and an activist from Gary. More information is at 219-886-2484. The Henry E. Bennett Achievement Foundation will host the 2025 Annual Kappa Golf Klassic and Day Party on June 28 at River Pointe Golf Course, 6700 Country Club Road, Hobart. Shotgun start will be at 10 a.m., a Scholarship Presentation will take place at 3 p.m. and the '19th Hole' Day Party will begin at 4 p.m. The cost is $125 for a single, $500 for a foursome and $25 for the 19th Hole. Tickets are available at For more information and sponsorship opportunities, contact Chris Robinson at 219-381-5802 or email robinsonchristion@ The Feline Community Network will hold its Whiskers & Wieners Hot Dog Fundraiser on Saturday and Sunday. The event, located at 1001 W. 37th Ave., will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on each day. It will feature hot dogs, chips, drinks and cookies available for purchase; a parking lot sale; an open house in its cat-themed gift shop; and the opportunity to meet cats up for adoption. For more information, call (219) 940-3340 or email Info@ Indiana Department of Transportation contractor Enneking Pressure Cleaning will close U.S. 6 between Mander Road and County Road 350 E on or after Monday, June 23. U.S. 6 will be closed for approximately one week for a bridge deck overlay preventative maintenance project over CSX Railroad. Motorists should seek alternate routes. The official detour will follow Indiana 49 and Indiana 2. Indiana Department of Transportation contractor Milestone Contractors LP will replace the 153rd Avenue bridge over Interstate 65 beginning Monday. INDOT said 153rd Avenue will be closed between Mississippi and Iowa streets/Grove Road while bridge replacement work is ongoing through mid-November. Motorists should seek alternate routes. The official detour will follow Clay Street, Indiana 2 and Indiana 55. During this project, there will be daytime lane shifts and overnight lane closures as needed on I-65 in this location. The first overnight lane closures are scheduled to occur during the hours of 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. Wednesday through Friday. Please be alert for changing traffic patterns on I-65.
Chicago Tribune
16-06-2025
- Health
- Chicago Tribune
Community news: Path to Wellness walking series and Literacy social
The Recycling and Waste Reduction District of Porter County is seeking a Compost Site Attendant to join its team in Porter County. This part-time position aids the District in the composting, bulb recovery, battery recycling, drop off recycling and/or electronics recycling programs. Applications are available from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday in the District office. 155 Indiana Ave., Suite 314, Valparaiso. For additional information, call 219-465-3694, or email info@ Residents are invited to step into a healthier summer with the 'Path to Wellness' walking event, a free community program designed to promote physical activity, mental well-being, and nutritional awareness, starting Friday at Oak Ridge Prairie Park in Griffith. The series, organized by Franciscan Health and the Lake County Health Department, will take place every Friday — except July 4th — through August 15. The sessions, held from 9-10:30 a.m., will start with an informative talk on a wellness-related topic, followed by a light warm-up stretch, and then a refreshing walk amidst the natural beauty of Oak Ridge Prairie Park. Preventative health screenings will be offered on the first and last day of the program, and information on mindfulness, nutrition, personal safety, and chronic disease will be shared. Water and a light snack will be provided, and participants are reminded to wear comfortable shoes. Attendees are encouraged to register to help organizers prepare adequate refreshments: Applications are now available to participate in the Chesterton-Porter Rotary Club's Fourth of July Parade. There is no cost to participate in the parade, but a completed application is required. The deadline to apply is Monday. Parade entries will begin assembling at 8 a.m. in the parking lot at Yost Elementary School, 100 W. Beam St., Porter. The Parade will begin at 9 a.m. traveling through the Town of Porter to the day-long Fourth Fest site at Hawthorne Park, 500 Ackerman Drive, Porter. The community is invited for a day of festivities, food and entertainment culminating with fireworks at dusk. For applications and more information, contact Barbara at bblack1888@ or 219-617-6109. The Plastic Reduction Alliance will host an educational meeting aimed at reducing plastic waste and fostering a sustainable future for Northwest Indiana at 6 p.m. Wednesday at Valparaiso University Harre Union, Ballroom A, 1509 Chapel Drive, Valparaiso. The meeting, titled 'The Power of Partnering for Plastic Free Communities,' invites all environmentally conscious individuals and local environmental groups to participate in the discussion. Participants will explore practical strategies for reducing plastic waste in our municipalities through collaboration, education and shared goals. The evening will include: a presentation by the Plastic Reduction Alliance of Northwest Indiana; small group breakout sessions; networking opportunities; and a collective call to action for a more sustainable region. RSVP by emailing ekapitan@ The Gary Literacy Coalition will host the Third Annual Book, Food and Wine Tasting Summer Social from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Arthouse: A Social Kitchen, 411 E. Fifth Ave., Gary. Those attending will each receive a complimentary book. The cost is $60 per person. Register at For more information, call 219-885-2229. Registration is now open for the Franciscan Health Produce Prescription Program in Munster, which aims to assist with chronic disease management. Upon successful completion of the free, six-week program, participants will receive monthly fresh produce vouchers for six months. Participants must have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, heart disease or high blood pressure; have moderate to high food insecurity as determined by a screening process and complete a four-week Cooking Matters course. Participants need not be patients within the Franciscan Health system to participate. The program will meet weekly from 11 a.m. to Noon CT on Thursdays July 10 through Aug. 14 at the Hammond Clinic, Third Floor Room 3060 B, 7905 Calumet Ave., Munster. The deadline to register is Friday. To register and for more information, contact Insydia Rivera at or call 219-323-2225. The public is invited to attend a special story hour and author visit by Carolyn McCrady from 10 a.m. to Noon Monday at the Main Library 220 W. Fifth Ave., Gary. McCrady is the author of 'Working Class Cats for Peace,' a story that resonates with children as well as adults. The book provides a simple but interesting way to talk about friendship and loyalty among children, and promote the idea that when we harm each other, we are harming ourselves. McCrady is a retired high school English and journalism teacher and an activist from Gary. More information is at 219-886-2484. The Henry E. Bennett Achievement Foundation will host the 2025 Annual Kappa Golf Klassic and Day Party on June 28 at River Pointe Golf Course, 6700 Country Club Road, Hobart. Shotgun start will be at 10 a.m., a Scholarship Presentation will take place at 3 p.m. and the '19th Hole' Day Party will begin at 4 p.m. The cost is $125 for a single, $500 for a foursome and $25 for the 19th Hole. Tickets are available at For more information and sponsorship opportunities, contact Chris Robinson at 219-381-5802 or email robinsonchristion@ The Feline Community Network will hold its Whiskers & Wieners Hot Dog Fundraiser on Saturday and Sunday. The event, located at 1001 W. 37th Ave., will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on each day. It will feature hot dogs, chips, drinks and cookies available for purchase; a parking lot sale; an open house in its cat-themed gift shop; and the opportunity to meet cats up for adoption. For more information, call (219) 940-3340 or email Info@ Indiana Department of Transportation contractor Enneking Pressure Cleaning will close U.S. 6 between Mander Road and County Road 350 E on or after Monday, June 23. U.S. 6 will be closed for approximately one week for a bridge deck overlay preventative maintenance project over CSX Railroad. Motorists should seek alternate routes. The official detour will follow Indiana 49 and Indiana 2. Indiana Department of Transportation contractor Milestone Contractors LP will replace the 153rd Avenue bridge over Interstate 65 beginning Monday. INDOT said 153rd Avenue will be closed between Mississippi and Iowa streets/Grove Road while bridge replacement work is ongoing through mid-November. Motorists should seek alternate routes. The official detour will follow Clay Street, Indiana 2 and Indiana 55. During this project, there will be daytime lane shifts and overnight lane closures as needed on I-65 in this location. The first overnight lane closures are scheduled to occur during the hours of 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. Wednesday through Friday. Please be alert for changing traffic patterns on I-65.
