Good morning, Valparaiso.

PNW's nursing programs were named in US News and World Report's 2025 Best Graduate Programs rankings released April 8—its MBA program was also named among top business programs.

The college offers advanced training in healthcare and leadership roles—helping students prepare for future careers.

The MAAC Foundation will host a full-day training conference for first responders in partnership with ResponderStrong and NDRI Ventures — the event will teach new mental health tools and invite spouses, clinicians, social workers and chaplains to join the training.

NorthShore Health Centers started a volunteer program that gives full-time workers eight paid volunteer hours to help with local causes—about 30% took part in early 2024, logging 571 volunteer hours, and the center plans to exceed that total next year.

The initiative offers a new way for employees to support community organizations such as food banks and health fairs.

The Parade of Homes will let residents tour 24 model houses across Northwest Indiana later this month — the event gives a chance to see new home styles.

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.

A Paris Stroll Painting Event

6-8 p.m. — SmokeTown Blues — Ticket required — Enjoy a creative painting session while sipping cocktails and indulging in great food.

Tri Kappa Iota Bingo Night Fundraiser

10:30 p.m. – 3:00 a.m. — 215 E Division Rd, Valparaiso, IN — Ticket required — Enjoy Bingo games with cash prizes and support local charity while indulging in a variety of appetizers.

VNA Stroll for Hospice

12-4 p.m. — Porter County Fairgrounds — Registration fee applies — Enjoy a family-friendly stroll to support hospice care with food, music, and activities.

Forever Plaid Musical

8 p.m. — Memorial Opera House — Ticket prices vary — Experience a nostalgic musical filled with classic barbershop harmonies and delightful 1950s pop hits.

Mother's Day Brunch

9 a.m.-2 p.m. — Journeyman at American Factory — Cost varies — Indulge in a delightful brunch buffet featuring sweet and savory dishes along with craft cocktails.