Good morning, Valparaiso.

Local companies Simko Signs and Fluid Coffee Roasters rely on NITCO for high-speed fiber internet and praise its dependable service and local support—business leaders note that the provider also offers voice, television, and priority plans over 285 miles of underground fiber to help keep their operations running smoothly. This local partnership supports more than 1,200 business customers with tailored communications services.

High schools across Northwest Indiana are building strong esports programs to help students develop teamwork and problem-solving skills.

The Indiana Esports Network and Purdue University Northwest support these schools as they prepare for state competitions scheduled for April 26—expanding academic and social growth.

Porter County Prosecutor Gary Germann is reforming how nonviolent offenders are treated by using specialized courts that help with addiction recovery — including drug, veterans and restoration courts that show success rates up to 95%.

He also backs jail therapeutic programs that cut repeat offenses by 35% and plans to run for reelection to build a safer community.

The Porter County Council approved $18 million for jail renovations to be financed by a $25 million bond sale approved in October—work expected to take roughly two years.

Northwest Health said its Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive collected 12,975 jars to help stock food banks at The PAX Center, Community Services of Starke County and the Foodbank of Northwest Indiana — local partners and Northwest Medical Group clinics also contributed to the drive's success.

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.

Arbor Lake Estates Neighborhood Garage Sale

1-7 p.m. — ValPLAYso — Free entry — Explore treasures in a family-friendly neighborhood garage sale with local charm.

The Early Summer Car, Truck & Bike Show

9 a.m.-7 p.m. — Porter County Fairgrounds — $5 admission, $20 swap meet space — Experience an exciting day filled with vehicles, vendors, and a beer garden before Memorial Day.