Good morning, Valparaiso.

United Way Northwest Indiana launched its 2026 Community Impact Grant Program today to fund solutions for working families in Porter, Lake, Jasper, Newton, and Starke counties.

Eligible 501(c)(3)s must apply by July 31, with funds starting in October.

Dr. Pamela Key, Director of Client Services at Sojourner Truth House for nearly 20 years, is stepping into a broader outreach role at Right Now Church and Women Organizing Women Inc., planning more travel and family time as she moves on from social work.

Alpen House and The Golf Lodge have started hiring in downtown Valparaiso, inviting community members to apply for various positions.

Gabis Arboretum at Purdue Northwest will host a summer concert series featuring tribute bands of Fleetwood Mac, Beatles, Grateful Dead, and Dave Matthews, giving music fans a chance to enjoy live campus performances this season.

Andrean High School Principal Jaycob Knazur said in a video message that students will return for the fall semester as plans are still being developed.

Merrillville educator Luis Chavez Dorantes wraps up his second year teaching Spanish at Merrillville High School after a career in hospitality and logistics.

He changed paths at 32 (after having his first son) and now creates a warm classroom that inspires students to pursue new opportunities.

Charlotte Sekula, assistant principal at Morgan Township Middle/High School, has led efforts to improve special education and build leadership among teachers while balancing a busy schedule with outdoor time spent with her active boys; she continues to serve the community with dedication.

Mount Baldy’s parking area and beach access route reopened on Monday, June 15 after a project moved 27,000 tons of sand to restore the beach system.

The summit and dune face remain closed (due to safety concerns) as park staff monitor slope stability.

On June 13, the Methodist Hospitals Foundation Gala at Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana raised $333,176 to help patients, families, and caregivers — the event also honored F.

Richey Eibel for 53 years of service in the community.

On Wednesday, June 17, Porter-Starke Services held its annual symposium at Valparaiso University's Harre Union to share new mental health research (with free breakfast) as professionals and community members learned about childhood trauma; keynote speaker Amanda Zelechoski explained using simple language to share data.

Franciscan Health’s Marissa Adcock was honored with the Child Safety Advocacy Award at the Indiana Child Passenger Safety Conference in Indianapolis yesterday—she leads child seat safety events across Northern Indiana.

Local real estate leaders said that Northwest Indiana communities could see a boost in property values if they act on new development opportunities spurred by the planned Bears stadium (a long-term impact opportunity).

Freaky Friday Musical

Various times — Memorial Opera House — Ticket prices apply — Experience the magic of body-swapping between a mother and daughter in this delightful musical adaptation.

Big Love: Fleetwood Mac Tribute

7-10 p.m. — Live at the Lakefront — General admission — Enjoy a night of classic Fleetwood Mac tunes by Big Love under the stars.

Father's Day Golf Tournament

6 AM - 1 PM — Forest Park Golf Course Welter Room — $25/team plus cart & green fees — Celebrate Father's Day with a fun 18-hole scramble for father/child duos.

K-POP Dance Camp

10 AM – 12 PM — Mirror Image Dance Academy of Valparaiso — RSVP required — Get ready to groove with K-POP dance lessons over three exciting days.

SAND + STEEL Art Fest 2026

7 p.m. - 4 p.m. — Ice Rink at Central Park Plaza — Free entry — Celebrate the vibrant local art scene with a three-day festival showcasing creativity and talent.

Kyndred Live Vendor Market & Concert

1-6 p.m. — Sunset Hill Farm County Park — Free admission — Explore delightful local vendors before enjoying an evening concert.

Golden Hour Railway Garden

6-8 p.m. — Gabis Arboretum at Purdue Northwest — $10 per carload — Experience locomotives and nature harmonizing as the golden hour paints the garden.

Valparaiso 4th of July Celebration

5 p.m. — Urschel Field — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with live music, food trucks, and a spectacular fireworks show.

Finding Nemo JR

Fri-Sun, Jul 10-12 — Memorial Opera House — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a delightful underwater adventure performed by talented young artists.

Valpo Food Truck Fest & Car Show

11 a.m. — Sunset Hill Farm County Park — Free entry — Enjoy a variety of food trucks and admire classic cars at this family-friendly fest.