Good morning, Valparaiso.

Mayor Jon Costas announced the city declared the first full week of May as International Compost Awareness Week to reduce landfill waste by composting organic materials—Valpo Parks has partnered with Porter County Recycling for a pilot program allowing residents to drop off food and garden waste at the Farmers Market in downtown starting June 3. The program diverted over 8,000 pounds of waste last year, and city services divert nearly 36,000 cubic yards of yard waste at the public compost site on West Lincolnway—drop-off and pick-up services are free for Porter County residents.

Students at Joy Elementary School collected baby books & toys, blankets and reusable bags decorated with hand-drawn pictures to support new moms and babies at Franciscan Health Michigan City's Family Birth Center.

Sister M. Petra Nielsen thanked the students during an all-school assembly last week as part of their Better World Day project.

Science Olympiad has grown in Northern Indiana as several high schools, including Valparaiso, Lake Central, and Penn, host group competitions that build STEM skills — the program partners with local colleges and businesses to offer hands-on learning with modern equipment.

Northwest Health welcomed cardiothoracic surgeon Sinan Simsir, MD to its Northwest Medical Group office at 85 E.

U.S. Highway 6 in Valparaiso today—he brings over 20 years of experience in heart and lung surgery and is set to improve patient care in our community.

May is National Electrical Safety Month and NIPSCO is sharing tips to help customers avoid electrical injuries and fires—residents are advised to keep 50 feet away from downed wires, use outdoor-rated cords with generators, and maintain safe distance when using ladders near power lines. Senior VP Orville Cocking said that following these safety guidelines can prevent accidents and save lives.

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.

Vacation Bible School

2-5 p.m. — Liberty Bible Church — Free — Explore the bigness of God through games, crafts, and lessons at this fun-filled week for kids.