Good morning, Valparaiso.

City of Valparaiso awarded $167,040 in grants to 19 neighborhoods for projects such as pollinator gardens, public art sculpture and tree plantings—efforts that support community unity.

Mayor Jon Costas said the Neighborhood Improvement Grant Program began in 2018 and has funded 139 grants for more than $1.8 million in neighborhood improvements.

Team Chevrolet Valparaiso celebrated 14 staff members who have served the dealership for two or more years and helped build its trusted service reputation.

The recognition honors employees from sales, parts, and service — a sign of the strong loyalty within the team.

Lubeznik Center for the Arts is hosting an opening reception for its new exhibition Ordinary Wonders on Friday, April 4 from 5 to 8 p.m. Exhibiting artists Jessica Labatte and Cecil McDonald, Jr. and curator Whitney Bradshaw will attend—offering free admission with complimentary light refreshments and a cash bar.

BNI Speech Team returned from Sectional and State tournaments after earning a third-place trophy on February 22 and several students became quarterfinalists at State with one qualifying for Nationals as the district champion—showing the results of hard work.

Upcoming events include a Boys Track invite today and an April production of Little Women while the school also welcomed new teacher Elizabeth Cuadrado—adding to the vibrant campus culture.

Indiana University Northwest’s School of Education will host its eighth annual Teacher Recruitment Fair on Friday, April 4 from 1-4 p.m. in the Savannah Center at 3400 Broadway—twenty local schools will recruit educators and administrators for the upcoming 2025-26 school year.

At the March 10 council meeting, members debated Robert Cotton's ordinance that shifts project oversight to the private sector and includes apprenticeship requirements that critics say favor union labor — with Mayor Costas raising concerns about potential negative effects.

Council tabled the proposal until the next meeting on March 24 to gather more input on the controversial changes.

Superior Construction Co Inc will begin a bridge deck overlay project on I-65 over Norfolk Southern on or after March 25 with overnight lane closures set for March 25 for northbound lanes and March 26 for southbound lanes—crews will shift traffic into three lanes while closing the ramp from Ridge Rd to southbound I-65 through mid-August. Construction will continue through mid-October, and drivers are advised to allow extra time and follow traffic instructions.

High school bowling is thriving in Northwest Indiana as Valparaiso and several local schools compete in the Lakeshore Indiana High School Bowling Conference.

Valparaiso’s Boys team led the regular season while standout bowlers earned All-Region honors and advanced to Semi-State and State competitions — showcasing rising talent in the region.

Light & Fight Live Fire Training

This training session focuses on essential firefighting skills, including hoseline deployment and live fire attack techniques for fire service instructors.

Shemekia Copeland Live

7:30 PM — Memorial Opera House — $40-$80 — Experience the powerful voice of one of today's greatest female blues vocalists live on stage.

Reggae Express Live Performance at Duffy's Place

Experience an evening of lively reggae music and dance at Duffy's Place in Valparaiso.

On-Site Tour at Brookdale Valparaiso

An opportunity for residents to explore colorful activities, nutritious dining, and exceptional senior living services at Brookdale Valparaiso.

Ringing in Spring 5k

8:00 – 9:30 AM — Valparaiso Family YMCA — Registration fee applies — Celebrate the 32nd anniversary with a community-focused run/walk for a good cause.

Kids Closet Sale

8 AM-12 PM — Butterfield Family Pavilion — $3 cash only — Explore gently used kids' items at this treasure trove for families.

Open House at Brooks at Vale Park

5-7 p.m. — 3103 Whispering Brook Lane — Free entry — Explore this stunning 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home in the desirable Brooks at Vale Park subdivision.