Good morning, Valparaiso.

Catholic Charities Fort Worth and Goodwill Michiana announced they will launch the nation’s first Padua Mission Site in Northern Indiana to extend a research-backed program that pairs clients with a dedicated Navigator team to boost housing, employment, and overall stability for local families.

United Way Northwest Indiana announced free online tax filing through My Free Taxes (targeted to U.S. filers earning below $89K last year).

The service helps users file federal and state taxes in under one hour via phone, tablet, or computer, available this tax season.

Caleigh Davis works as a training specialist at Carylon Corporation while volunteering with Tri Kappa and raising two young girls; her work turns complex instructions into clear lessons that boost community confidence (she is a dedicated single mother from Crown Point).

Golden Buffet replaced Dynasty Buffet at 1805 E.

Lincolnway in Valpo — drawing long lines as locals enjoy familiar Asian dishes.

Founded in 1999 in a former burger house in Valparaiso, El Salto has grown into a six-location family-run chain that serves authentic Mexican dishes (including signature queso and carnitas) and supports local events throughout Northwest Indiana.

Samuelson Insurance Agency, one of Porter County’s oldest family-owned insurers, is celebrating 100 years in business this year.

It serves Valparaiso and nearby areas by offering personal and commercial coverage — helping customers with claims guidance and dedicated support.

Makenna Fetch works as marketing coordinator at the Porter County Public Library+ she uses her creative skills to update library outreach by promoting local arts events and community programs in Valparaiso while also co-leading a Girl Scout troop that supports local youth.

Indiana University Northwest will host the Court of Appeals' traveling program, Appeals on Wheels, on Friday, Jan.

30 at 10:30 a.m. (Arts and Sciences Building Mainstage Theater) where judges will hear live arguments in Dede Bisel v. State of Indiana and answer public questions about the judiciary process.

PNW Athletics held a historic jersey retirement reception on Jan.

23 that honored MLB pitcher Chad Patrick as the first former student-athlete drafted into a major league team, and he will report to spring training with the Milwaukee Brewers on Feb. 12 (marking the start of his record-setting career).

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.

Rural 1st Construction Workshop

5:30-8 p.m. — The Pennsy Depot Banquet Room — Free entry — Connect with home building experts to create your personalized roadmap to a dream home.

Chanticleer in Concert

The Grammy Award-winning vocal ensemble Chanticleer will be in concert at the Chapel of the Resurrection, Valparaiso University on Thursday, February 26 at 7:00 PM. Chanticleer has been hailed by the Boston Globe as “breathtaking in its accuracy of intonation, purity of blend, of color and swagger of style.” Information and tickets at https://www.valpo.edu/about/bach-institute/performances/

Something Rotten

8 p.m. — Memorial Opera House — $30-$60 — Experience a madcap musical journey where two playwrights attempt to outshine Shakespeare with a wild idea.