Good morning, Valparaiso.

Valpo Parks launched public surveys for the new multi-purpose Valpo REC facility to transform the city’s last empty industrial site.

Residents interested in youth sports + active adult programs and community spaces must submit their feedback by March 1 to shape the design and programming for all ages.

Local entrepreneur Tara Potocki runs a home-based beauty studio in (Hebron) where she offers hair, lash, spray tan and brow services.

She built her business on genuine connections after studying cosmetology in Chicago and overcoming early challenges and personal loss, inspiring local entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams.

Radiologic sciences professor Vesna Balać became IU Northwest’s department chair after rising from a student who overcame hardship from Sarajevo.

She built her career as an MRI technologist and teacher (earning advanced degrees and participating on national boards) while mentoring students on balancing work and school.

Chesterton High suspended a student for sending a racist letter, as officials outlined five key points about the incident — including a review of current policies to uphold respect within the school.

At Purdue University Northwest’s MLK Jr. Community Celebration on Jan.

19, Indiana entrepreneur Kiahna W. Davis delivered a keynote speech on education & economic inclusion while Michigan City Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch emceed the event. Attendees enjoyed a breakfast buffet and inspiring remarks on unity.

Ports of Indiana boosted its leadership today by adding a local union leader to its board and naming a chief commercial officer (a change expected to improve trade operations).

Franciscan Health is offering a free six-week Produce Prescription Program to help manage chronic diseases in Michigan City and Olympia Fields this February and March.

Participants must meet registration deadlines (Michigan City deadline: Feb. 10) and complete a Cooking Matters course before joining classes held on Tuesdays at the Legacy Campus and on Wednesdays and Mondays in Olympia Fields.

Northwest Health Porter will host free lunch-n-learn seminars at 85 E.

U.S. Highway 6 in February to mark American Heart Month. The sessions run noon to 1 p.m. and cover topics like cardiovascular disease, atrial fibrillation, and blood pressure guidelines and require registration.

Portofino Grill, serving guests for 28 years at Briar Leaf Golf Club in LaPorte, will close as a developer plans to convert the course into a housing complex.

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.

Galentine’s Day Party

7-11 p.m. — Social Goat — Exciting event — Celebrate friendship with a fun Galentine’s Day party featuring a western twist.