Good morning, Valparaiso.

USW Local 7-1 is negotiating a new contract with BP Whiting Refinery, one of the region's largest industrial employers.

The talks will look to secure better benefits for workers & keep operations steady.

Crossroads Chamber has opened nominations for its 6th Annual Business Excellence Awards scheduled for March 12 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Dean and Barbara White Center + community members can now nominate local businesses and leaders who drive regional growth.

Catch 22 Table & Tap offers fresh catering packages for dine-in and to-go events, including a breakfast bar, finger food, and casual wraps with free non-alcoholic drinks.

The restaurant plans to feature sports-themed specials for the Super Bowl with a $30 delivery fee when orders are placed three days ahead.

Students from Hanover Central High School visited Valparaiso University on Dec.

4 to attend a Business Model Canvas training at the Innovation Hub, where professor Dushan Nikolvski led a collaborative workshop with peers from nearby schools — each participant earned a certificate for completing the session.

On Thursday night the Valpo School Board approved over $12 million in contracts for two upcoming projects that will support improvements in local school programs.

The projects are set to boost facilities and enhance educational efforts.

Veterans of Comedy

7-10 p.m. — Art Theater — $25 General Admission — Enjoy a night of laughter hosted by Alex Ortiz with featured performances from Zako Ryan, Kirk Mchenry, and Robert Day.

Bad Momz of Comedy

7-10 p.m. — Memorial Opera House — Tickets required — Enjoy a night of laughter with the amazing Bad Momz of Comedy as seen on the Kelly Clarkson Show.

Vision Book Workshop

5:30 p.m. — Cooks Corners School — Free entry — Create a vision for your life through collaging images and affirmations.

Art: Paint and Pour

5-7 p.m. — Valparaiso Public Library — Registration required — Create a funky painting while enjoying your favorite beverage in a relaxed atmosphere.

PCMGA Gardening Show

8 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Porter County Fairgrounds — $10 entry, children under 12 free — Celebrate your love for gardening with door prizes and community spirit.

Fire Officer Strategy and Tactics Course

6-10 p.m., 8 a.m.-4 p.m. — MAAC Foundation - First Responder Training Campus — Registration required — Enhance your firefighting leadership skills with essential strategies and tactics.