The Economic Development Corp. Michigan City welcomed two new board members in 2026.
“We are honored to have a cross-section of our community take on the role to ensure that we are taking the best course for the future of our city,” EDCMC Executive Director Clarence Hulse said in a press release. “Board members have a mix of expertise and experience that is invaluable to plotting our best course forward.”
New board members include Dr. Vidya Kora and John Rieger Jr. of Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa. Councilman Bryant Dabney concluded his term on the board after two years.
Kora, an internal medicine physician, serves patients at the Franciscan Physician Network Franklin Health Center in Michigan City. Formerly he was the department of medicine chairman at Memorial Hospital of Michigan City, a commissioner in La Porte County and president of the Indiana State Medical Association. He also is an at-large member of the city's Common Council.
Rieger is the vice president and general manager at the casino.
Officers in 2026 include:
- Seth Spencer of Sera Group, board chair
- Stephanie Oberlie of Harbour Trust & Investment Management Co., vice chair
- Steve Kring of Horizon Bank, treasurer
- Jessica Bailey of Sullair – A Hitachi Group Co., secretary
- Bill Hackney of the Herald Dispatch, past chair
“We are looking forward to what 2026 brings as our economic development energy continues to surge to new levels,” Hulse said.
The EDCMC also will host its fourth annual economic development “Power Breakfast” from 7:30 to 10 a.m. March 25 at the Blue Chip Casino and Hotel. The event will feature a conversation about transit-oriented developments with Michigan City Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch and Hammond Mayor Thomas McDermott. Sign up here. Cost is $40 a person.
