Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 23rd of May.
Good morning, Valparaiso.
🏘️ Community
Residents of Valparaiso will join the Barks And Bluegrass event on May 24th at The HUB NWI to support B.A.R.C.
Begin Again Rescue — the fundraiser will run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and will feature live music by The Help Hounds, a vendor market, pet crafting for dog lovers, rescue dog adoptions and a donation drive for pet essentials.
📰 Economy
Lake County’s unemployment rate dropped to 4.4 percent in April and Porter County’s fell to 3.3 percent, with about 3,500 and 1,300 more people working than a year ago.
Lake County still has the second-highest rate among Indiana counties—Gary has the highest rate among the state’s major cities.
🏛️ Government
Valpo City Council has chosen Erika Watkins for the school board and she will replace board President Rob Behrend when his term ends in July (she is the current Center Township appointee).
The council made this decision to ensure a smooth transition (the appointment will take effect at the term’s end).
Valparaiso City Utilities Field Services encountered an unexpected water main break while extending a new pipe on Goodrich Road—this disruption affected residents in the Greenfield Creek Subdivision and along Goodrich Road.
Crews are working to repair the break and a boil advisory will remain in effect for about 48 hours as water testing is conducted.
🏈 Sports
Madi Rogers (recognized for her doubles success in the MVC) will join the Valpo tennis program as a senior transfer for the 2025-26 season, and coach Bob Modesto expects her to boost the team's performance.
Rogers earned ITA Scholar-Athlete honors and won a doubles championship while playing at Bradley last season.
Valparaiso University track and field junior Brian Sponaugle, who has a 3.85 GPA in bioengineering, was named to the Missouri Valley Conference Scholar-Athlete Team on Thursday—earning top rankings in events including the indoor 1,000-meter run and heptathlon.
He also placed sixth in the javelin at the MVC Outdoor Championships, earning three points for his team.
🎉 Valparaiso Events
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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.
Open Mic Night
6-9 p.m. — Four Corners Winery — Free entry — Showcase your talents, from music to poetry, in a warm community atmosphere.
Experience a Day at Camp Butternut Springs
10 AM – 4 PM — Camp Butternut Springs — Lunch provided — Kickoff your summer with fun camp activities led by skilled staff.
Red Revolution - Taylor Swift Tribute
2-6 p.m. — Central Park Plaza — No Refunds — Spend the afternoon enjoying a tribute to pop's iconic female artist with live music and fun activities.
Fairytale Fest
Evening — Haven Hollow Park — Free entry — Experience an enchanting evening of fairytale magic with costumes and fun activities for children.
Roxx Fest 2025
12:30-6:30 p.m. — On The Roxx — Check website for ticket info — Experience the ultimate outdoor rock concert with eight legendary bands in Northern Indiana.
🏠 Valparaiso Real Estate
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