Good morning, Valparaiso.

Chris Mahlmann is named the 2026 Clubhouse Hero for his support of Boys & Girls Clubs, which serve over 8,500 youth in 9 local clubs.

His efforts help provide safe and enriching after-school programs that promote academic success, leadership and healthy lifestyles.

Indiana American Water is emphasizing work zone safety this week (April 20-24) during National Work Zone Awareness Week.

Health and Safety Program Manager Chris Ross urged drivers to slow down and leave extra space in active work zones so crews can work safely.

The Porter County Animal Shelter will host its 21st Annual Be Kind to Animals Pet Care Expo on Saturday, May 9 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at their facility with animal nonprofits, rescues, veterinarians, food vendors, and raffles while admission remains free (leashed pets are welcome).

Larson-Danielson Construction is building MAAC Foundation’s new headquarters and Kathryn Hall (for first responder training) as part of a long-standing partnership.

The project will expand training facilities to support community safety.

VNA Hospice NWI hosted its annual Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast on April 18 at Christ Lutheran Church to honor volunteers who support end-of-life care.

The event featured favorite dishes *celebrating decades of service* and recognized milestone achievements among long-serving volunteers.

Firefighters will battle a condo fire on April 23 at a condo on Spinnaker Lane in Lakes of the Four Seasons.

Hartman Global partner Domenica Hartman explained how local business owners can protect their ideas by securing patents, trademarks, and copyrights.

The firm handles around 100 legal protections each year (a key service for innovation) and advises that ideas should not be disclosed before filing.

Purdue University Northwest’s SMSVC celebrates 10 years of advanced simulation, visualization, and AI work for steel manufacturing with 16 partner companies supporting nearly 200 projects.

The consortium’s efforts have boosted workforce development and process efficiency in the region (including 400 student positions and over $25 million in funding).

Gas prices fell by 23.6 cents in northwest Indiana over the past week, and an energy analyst warned the lower cost may be temporary if demand picks up soon.

2026 Valparaiso University Jazz Fest

The Valparaiso University Department of Music presents the 2026 Valparaiso University Jazz Festival, with four days of events that take place Wednesday, April 22, to Saturday, April 25, in the University Theatre, located in the Center For The Arts, 1709 Chapel Drive. Each day will include workshop presentations by professional jazz artists, performances by area high school jazz ensembles, and nightly featured concerts.

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].

The American Revolution

Showing and facilitated discussion of segments of Ken Burns' The American Revolution documentary in celebration of our 250th year as a country. April 22, 2026, 3-5 pm, VU Union ballrooms. Free admission and light refreshments served.

2026 Valparaiso University Jazz Fest

The Valparaiso University Department of Music presents the 2026 Valparaiso University Jazz Festival, with four days of events that take place Wednesday, April 22, to Saturday, April 25, in the University Theatre, located in the Center For The Arts, 1709 Chapel Drive. Each day will include workshop presentations by professional jazz artists, performances by area high school jazz ensembles, and nightly featured concerts.

Valparaiso Community Conference

10 AM – 3 PM — Harre Union — Free entry — Enhance local knowledge and explore opportunities to engage with the Valparaiso community.

Divine Vines Comedy Night

7-9 p.m. — Anderson's Winery and Vineyard — $10 Presale, $15 Day of Show — Enjoy a night of laughter with top-tier comedy in a scenic winery setting.

Harlem Wizards Game

Evening — Valparaiso High School — Family-friendly fun — Enjoy a night filled with tricks and hoops from the World-Famous Harlem Wizards.

Glass Flower Cocktails & Canvas

12-2 p.m. — Four Corners Winery — Priced per participant — Unleash your creativity while sipping cocktails and painting a vibrant 'Glass Flower'.

A Little Night Music

8-11 p.m. — Memorial Opera House — $60 • Loge, $30 • Adults, $27 • Senior/Student/Military — Experience a romantic musical journey through love, longing, and regret with Sondheim's enchanting score.

Early Summer Car, Truck & Bike Show

9 a.m. - 3 p.m. — Porter County Fairgrounds — $5 vehicle registration, $5 general admission — Celebrate local automotive culture with displays and swap meet opportunities.

Sewing Class: Make a Tote Bag

5-7 p.m. — Valpo Creates Center — $40 — Create a spacious tote bag while learning the basics of sewing and quilting.