Good morning, Valparaiso.

Mark Forszt at Harley-Davidson of Valparaiso helped launch Lakeshore PAWS in early 2011 when Jeanne Sommer requested support, prompting a $25,000 donation that led the nonprofit to rescue more than 8,800 dogs.

The organization continues to host annual events and partners with local businesses including Tru by Hilton Valparaiso.

Local fireworks stores predict a surge in sales as the region nears its 250th anniversary celebrations; they expect demand to exceed last year's figures & plan to serve a growing crowd in the coming days.

Twisted Sister will perform at Hard Rock Casino soon, offering local fans an energetic rock show + a chance to enjoy live music at the popular venue.

More details on timing and ticket information are expected to be released shortly.

INDOT announced that a stretch of U.S. 35 between County Road 400 West & Schultz Road will close for about a month, starting on or after Monday, July 6.

The detour follows State Road 39 and U.S. 20 while paving and construction continue through the end of October.

Local police and fire departments shared safety tips to help residents prevent crashes and injuries during the Fourth of July weekend — officials urge caution on the roads and at fireworks displays.

NIPSCO, with support from NiSource Charitable Foundation, is accepting applications for its Public Safety Education & Training Grant to help local nonprofits and first responders fund safety education programs.

Applications are open through July 31 with winners to be announced in August.

On Monday, June 22, residents learned life-saving skills during an eight-week EMR course hosted by the MAAC Foundation—organized with United Way Northwest Indiana—to prepare participants for emergency response.

The training focused on practical techniques to care for and move patients safely.

Local officials have shared safety guidelines for visitors planning to swim in Lake Michigan this Fourth of July holiday—advising the use of designated areas and life vests to help prevent drowning.

Residents should review these tips before heading out this summer.

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.

Group Bike Ride: Red, White, & Blue

Starts at 9 a.m. — Foundation Meadows Park — Free entry — Enjoy a community bike ride through Valparaiso's scenic pathways.

Valpo Esports Summer Camp

8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. — Harre Union — Limited spots available — Dive into competitive esports and enhance your gaming skills with expert guidance.

Valparaiso Wine Festival

Summer evening — Central Park Plaza — Ticketed event — Wine flies when you’re having fun at the Valparaiso Wine Festival with live entertainment and food.

Max McNown Concert

7-10 p.m. — Porter County Fairgrounds — Tickets available — Experience heartfelt melodies from singer/songwriter Max McNown.

Footloose Musical

7 p.m. — Memorial Opera House — $35 Loge, $20 Adults, $18 Seniors/Students/Military — A high-energy celebration of freedom and youth featuring iconic 80s hits.

CAIN Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Porter County Fairgrounds — Ticket info available — Experience a vibrant concert featuring CAIN in Valparaiso.

Trace Adkins Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Porter County Fairgrounds — Ticket prices vary — Experience the unforgettable bass-baritone voice of country music star Trace Adkins live.