Good morning, Valparaiso.

Bishop Robert McClory said on May 8 that the election of former Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV marked an exciting moment for the community.

Born in Chicago and raised near the Little Calumet River, the first American pope—who is a lifelong White Sox fan—brings a unique link to the area.

Graduation Station captured many unique photo moments that celebrated the perseverance of 2025 high school and college graduates from local campuses—this effort showcased achievements at Ivy Tech, Indiana University Northwest, and Valparaiso University.

Julian Sahagun, class of 2025 from Purdue University Northwest is earning a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science with minors in Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics and Statistics after getting inspired by a YouTube channel on robotics.

He led the Computer Science Club and participated in day-long programming competitions — experience that prepares him for a hands-on role after graduation.

INDOT said that bridge work at State Road 49 and State Road 2 in Valparaiso will run through spring and summer, with two lanes maintained in each direction during daytime and overnight lane closures from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. as needed from late May to late July — repairs and bridge painting will continue until late August.

In Valparaiso, the MAAC Foundation First Responder Training Campus in partnership with Northwest Health will graduate 18 EMT students on Monday, May 12 at 6 p.m.—the students completed classroom lessons, hands-on simulations, and real-life emergency response scenarios.

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.

Serenity-Lily of the Valley Painting Event

2-4 p.m. — Four Corners Winery — No cost mentioned — Unleash your creativity in a serene setting while enjoying wine and painting.