Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 1st of May.
Good morning, Valparaiso.
🏘️ Community
On April 29, AVIVA Valparaiso and Dunes Hospice hosted their Volunteer Appreciation Lunch at the AVIVA facility where over 35 volunteers from local groups enjoyed pasta, cake, garlic bread, and gift bags—a tradition that honors community helpers.
Sales and marketing coordinator Tricia Catlin said the event also promoted awareness of AVIVA’s services and volunteer opportunities.
🌲 Environment
Merrillville-based NIPSCO and the NiSource Charitable Foundation announced the winners of the 2025 Environmental Action Grant that awarded 23 local nonprofits between $500 and $5,000 for environmental projects & education.
The grant will also support planting 150 native plants and milkweed plugs at Pisgah Marsh to enhance pollinator habitats.
Merrillville-based NIPSCO and the NiSource Charitable Foundation announced 23 local nonprofits have been selected for the 2025 Environmental Action Grant, which awards grants of $500 to $5,000 to support projects like pollinator protection and wetland restoration.
The program will also fund an expanded Monarch Joint Venture that will plant 150 to 200 native plant and milkweed plugs at Pisgah Marsh in northeast Indiana.
🏛️ Government
15 firefighters graduated from the MAAC Foundation Career Fire Academy after completing an intensive 11‑week training that covered fire suppression, hazmat operations and technical rescue.
The graduation ceremony will be held on Friday, May 2 at 6 p.m. at the Heroes’ Hangout Building in Valparaiso—featuring graduates from Portage, Whiting, Dyer, LaPorte and Michigan City Fire Departments.
Senate Enrolled Act 425, approved by state lawmakers, will be signed next month to let utility companies skip local permit and zoning reviews when building new energy facilities in Northwest Indiana including Michigan City, Chesterton and Wheatfield.
The law, backed by state Rep. Ed Soliday, lets companies change power plants to nuclear without local input—community leaders have little say over these moves—while critics warn that residents will lose control over nearby projects.
🏈 Sports
Valpo women's basketball head coach Courtney Boyd was named IBCA Coach of the Year for her work at Quincy in 2024-25—she led her team to a 25-8 record and a GLVC tournament title with a 15-win improvement over the prior season.
Boyd built a strong eight-year coaching career with Clarke and Quincy, and she recently accepted the head coach role at Valpo.
🎉 Valparaiso Events
Submit an event →
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.
🏠 Valparaiso Real Estate
Submit a listing →
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
💼 Valparaiso Job Board
Submit a job →
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
📣 Valparaiso Announcements
Submit an announcement →
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
Stay in the know, Valparaiso.
Free, always. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.