Good morning, Valparaiso.

St. Jude House Domestic Violence Prevention Center and Shelter will celebrate 30 years of service with its annual Stand Up for St. Jude House Fundraiser on May 16 from 6 to 10 p.m. at County Line Orchard in Hobart to raise funds for domestic violence survivors, featuring comedian Mike Toomey, live music by Frank Ruvoli, food, and auctions for those 21 and older.

Ivy Tech Community College announced major upgrades to its Valparaiso campus Welding Lab and will unveil the space on April 9th at 10 a.m. CT during a free ribbon cutting event with light refreshments.

The updated lab features state-of-the-art improvements — enhanced ventilation systems and modern equipment — designed to support skilled trade and academic programs.

Centier Bank was named best retail bank for customer satisfaction in the North Central region by the 2025 J.D.

Power U.S. Retail Banking Satisfaction Study, with over 100,000 customer responses collected from January 2024 through January 2025. CEO Michael E. Schrage said the award reflects the bank's family-owned tradition — focusing on service for local customers across Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia.

Centier Bank, a six-generation family-owned bank, was named the top retail bank for customer satisfaction in the North Central Region by J.D.

Power. The study surveyed over 100,000 customers from January 2024 through January 2025 and found it ranked first in six of seven service areas—CEO Michael E. Schrage said—highlighting its commitment to customer service.

A new episode from GreatNews.Life shows how local leaders like founder Chris Mahlmann and Team Chevrolet general manager Dave Brubaker explained that heart disease is the leading cause of death and that 80% of cases can be prevented with education and action (with experts from the American Heart Association sharing survival stories, CPR training, and research efforts). The discussion highlighted ongoing efforts to empower the community with life-saving heart health information.

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.

Fight Like a Girl Women's Self-Defense Course

5:30-8 p.m. — MAAC Foundation - First Responder Training Campus — Cost not specified — Empower yourself with essential self-defense skills taught by local police instructors.

South Shore Orchestra String Quartet at Blackbird Cafe

3-4:30 p.m. — Blackbird Cafe — Free entry — Experience the beauty of live classical music in an intimate setting.