
Introducing the "Battle for the Baton - Music Education Showdown"
Team Mayor Dermody vs. Team State Pressel & Bohacek where passion meets purpose.
The LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra (LCSO) is excited to announce the Battle for the Baton fundraiser to support the Steck Family Music Education Fund with a friendly competition launched June 10 with the Baton honors bestowed upon the winner at the free summer concert at Friendship Gardens on July 21.
The LSCO advises the community to get ready for a showdown as our community leaders go head-to-head in the ultimate Battle for the Baton Music Education Fundraiser!
In one corner, we have the beloved Mayor of LaPorte Tom Dermody, renowned for his dedication to the city of LaPorte's growth and prosperity. And in the other corner, we have the honorable State Senator Mike Bohacek and State Representative Jim Pressel, championing our state's interests with passion and fervor!

This battle isn't just about bragging rights—it's about raising vital funds to support the Steck Family Music Education fund. Every dollar raised goes towards providing music lessons for children in need, nurturing the next generation of musical talent. And, to add to the excitement, and thanks to a very generous donor, this endeavor includes a MATCHING gift meaning each dollar donated has double the impact! A gift of $100, equals $200 and provides 4 hours of private lesson instruction for a student in need.
The victor will be decided by generous donations from the public to support the Steck Family Music Education Fund. Donations accepted by visiting the LSCO website at: www.lsco.net.
About the Steck Family Music Education Fund
This fund was established in 2023 to provide private lessons to those middle and high school music students in La Porte County who show promise but cannot afford the cost of individual instruction. Music is a universal language that has the power to unite people across cultures, generations, and backgrounds. Initially, the La Porte County Symphony Board wanted to honor Chuck and Mary Steck as, collectively, they have 80 years invested in the LCSO. Chuck and Mary requested the “Steck Family Music Education Fund” be named to honor Chuck’s parents and siblings as well.

About the La Porte County Symphony Orchestra
The La Porte County Symphony Orchestra is a cornerstone of the vibrant arts landscape in Northwest Indiana. The orchestra serves the 110,000 residents of La Porte County and regions beyond, including Southwest Michigan. Now in its 51st season, the LCSO has grown from a small community orchestra into a dynamic, professional orchestra of 60 musicians serving audiences from seven counties. Each year, the orchestra presents four subscription concerts, in addition to the Hoosier Star, Holiday at the Pops and Children's Education concerts.
La Porte County Symphony Orchestra | PO Box 563, La Porte, IN 46352 | 219.362.9020 | executive@lcso.net | lcso.net