Good morning, Valparaiso.

Picante Mexican Cuisine opened in June 2023 and continues to serve authentic local fare under the care of Eduardo Garcia, his mother Laura Padilla, and kitchen manager Ismael Vasquez—who also donate food to local nonprofits while planning future expansion.

14-year-old Ja'Niyah McMichael has been missing from her Gary home since August 2024 after she was last seen in black pajama pants and a hooded sweatshirt—federal investigators and local police now suspect foul play while offering a $20,000 reward and her family continues the search.

Northwest Indiana comic book stores are preparing to hand out free comics on Saturday for Free Comic Book Day—an event meant to boost interest in reading comics that will see local stores like Galactic Greg’s participate with 46 available titles from major publishers.

The event will have varying store hours to manage the crowds and offer a mix of kid-friendly and mature comics.

Korellis has worked for over 65 years to repair and install roofs for local schools so that students learn safely — the contractor recently expanded its services to include sheet metal, masonry, and carpentry on projects ranging from elementary schools to athletic facilities.

The Valparaiso City Council rezoned four lots at the south end of Locust Street for Project Neighbors duplex development—an effort to provide eight affordable three-bedroom rental units—after community members supported the plan while a council member raised concerns about traffic and emergency access. City officials will now work on safety and access plans to ensure the neighborhood change meets all needs.

Valparaiso is offering grants to registered nonprofits that work to combat opioid addiction as part of the national opioid settlement—applications must be submitted by June 20 and organizations must show they provide prevention, treatment, or support services.

The city also is using settlement funds to support a Community Recovery Coordinator to help residents and families struggling with addiction.

Franciscan Health’s Social Impact Partnership Program will accept applications from May 5 to May 30 for up to $10,000 to support healthcare and human service programs for nonprofits serving at-risk communities.

Selected organizations will be announced in mid-July and must attend a welcome session on July 31—progress reports will follow at six months and one year to qualify for future funding.

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.

Suicide Prevention 5K Walk/Run

— 8 a.m. — Sunset Hill Farm County Park — Registration fee applies — Participate in a community-focused 5K to support suicide prevention efforts.

Beach Clean Up at Indiana Dunes State Park

Event Time — Indiana Dunes State Park — Free entry — Help keep our beautiful beaches clean while enjoying the summer sun.

Hometown Jams: Ian Munsick

5-6:30 p.m. — Northwest Health Amphitheater — Ticketed event — Enjoy an evening of live music with Ian Munsick hosted by Hometown Jams.