Good morning, Valparaiso.

NIPSCO Generation announced it will build two 1.3-GW gas plants + a 400-MW battery system for Amazon data centers beginning Jan.

1, 2027 as part of a $7 billion project designed to protect residential bills; the plan awaits IURC approval by May 6.

More than 800 union workers were locked out at the BP Whiting Refinery yesterday after contract talks stalled, and some picketed outside the facility.

BP said it kept operations running with trained replacement workers & maintained partial benefits during the lockout.

Ports of Indiana has opened its first international trade office in Ireland to boost container shipments to Indiana with trial shipments from the Burns Harbor Container Terminal expected later this year + maritime veteran Brian Dooley will lead efforts to expand liner service to Antwerp.

Ports of Indiana has opened its first international trade office in Ireland where Brian Dooley will lead efforts to expand cargo shipments.

The initiative aims to boost direct container service using the upcoming Burns Harbor Container Terminal with trial shipments expected later this year.

On St. Patrick’s Day (March 17), the Crossroads Chamber and Junior Achievement hosted JA Chambertown in Valparaiso, where over 2,000 students from nine schools practiced real-life budgeting with support from local businesses and nearly 100 volunteers.

The Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority is launching an initiative to designate U.S. 12 as a scenic byway along Lake Michigan’s southern shore.

The plan aims to boost tourism and economic development by enhancing access to parks and attractions nearby.

HealthLinc warns that proposed changes to Medicaid may limit care for thousands of families in Northwest Indiana.

Lawmakers are set to review the proposal soon + community members are advised to monitor local updates.

ASEE Illinois-Indiana Section Conference

7 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Valparaiso University — Free entry — Connect with engineering educators to share ideas and best practices.

The Wizard of Oz - Ruby Cast

2 p.m. — Memorial Opera House — Ticket information available — Experience the magical journey of Dorothy and friends in this faithful stage adaptation of the classic film.

Porter County Trading Card Show

9 AM – 3 PM — Porter County Fairgrounds — Entry details not specified — A collection-filled day for trading card enthusiasts to buy, sell, and trade their favorite cards.

Annual Ringing in Spring 5K

Time TBA — Valparaiso Family YMCA — Cost not specified — Kick off the running season with NWI's largest springtime 5K run/walk.

Debutants Performance

8 p.m. — Memorial Opera House — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting debut of a duo turned lively performance group.

Moellering Academic Panel on Spatial Sciences (MAPS)

Join us on Friday, April 17 for the Moellering Academic Panel on Spatial Sciences (MAPS), hosted by the Department of Geography, Meteorology, and Environmental Science and the Christopher Center Library at Valparaiso University. Geospatial technology powers everyday tools like weather forecasts, navigation, and deliveries, while also driving disaster response, disease tracking, deforestation monitoring, and urban planning. A panel of experts including Michael Goodchild, Marianne Cardwell, Stephen Aldrich, Ashley Poling, and Gang Shao will explore the real-world impact, ethics, and future of this rapidly evolving field.

Echoes of Pompeii: A Pink Floyd Experience

8 p.m. — Memorial Opera House — $40-$80 — Immerse yourself in an authentic performance of Pink Floyd's legendary music with stunning visuals and an expansive ensemble.

The American Revolution

Showing of clips of Ken Burns' The American Revolution with a panel of distinguished facilitators guiding discussion. This will be held at the VU Harre Union, Ballrooms A-C from 3-5p.m. Light refreshments will be served. Space is limited - reserve to [email protected].