Good morning, Valparaiso.

Helen Chapman shows a strong life of service as the Exalted Ruler of Whiting Elks Lodge 1273 and leads programs like a safe prom for Whiting High School and a Christmas meal for recruits from the Great Lakes Naval Station—helping veterans, youth, and families in need.

Indiana University Northwest’s Center for Urban and Regional Excellence (CURE) is now offering free non-credit courses for adults and seniors in April and May that cover topics such as mindfulness apps, internet basics, estate planning and companion planting.

Most sessions will be held in-person at local sites including IU Northwest, Whiting City Hall and the Banta Center with registration deadlines between April 15 and May 29.

Superior Construction Co, Inc. will begin work on 61st Ave over I-65 on or after April 21, and lanes will close alternately through early September for a bridge deck overlay maintenance project.

In phase one until early July, the outside right lanes will be closed with traffic moving to the left — drivers are urged to use detours at Ridge Rd or U.S. 30 and allow extra time.

The Valparaiso council got an update Monday on how opioid settlement funds are helping residents get treatment and fix buildings.

Porter-Starke Services said seven clients stayed in treatment for five months—details that will guide the next funding round.

Northwest Indiana schools are joining Unified Track in events that begin with practice on March 10 and contests on March 24, with competitions continuing through State Finals on June 7.

Valparaiso High School—recognized as a Special Olympics Unified Champion School—has built its program on inclusion and sportsmanship.

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.

Mayor's Youth Council Color Fun Run

6-8 p.m. — Rogers Lakewood Park — Registration required — Enjoy a colorful 1.5-mile run with family-friendly activities and obstacles.