Good morning, Valparaiso.

The Finishers of Valpo explains that a fresh coat of paint can update a home and protect its walls from moisture and wear—whether you are settling in, making a new space your own, or preparing to sell.

PNW received $1.8M in federal funding for its TRIO Student Support Services program & the new funds will help support low-income, first-generation, and disabled students through expanded services.

The funding will boost essential support as the program continues to grow.

Allison Boudreau teaches grades 10 to 12 at Midwest Center for Youth & Families where she mixes academic lessons with mental health support to create a safe place for learning.

She uses Dialectical Behavioral Therapy—DBT skills to help her students manage feelings and learn life skills.

Heather Hahn Sullivan is the executive director of Dunes Learning Center — the official Outdoor School at Indiana Dunes National Park where kids learn about nature.

Once a student there, she now leads programs, set a new vision plan, and aims to grow attendance from 15,000 last year to 20,000 this year.

Local scholar Reagan Williams, a recent Valparaiso High School graduate who credits her faith and family for her drive in service work, was awarded the Barb and Tim Regnitz Service Above Self $10,000 Scholarship—an honor from the Valparaiso Rotary Club.

She will study business at Notre Dame and plans to continue her volunteer work to help her community.

Valparaiso is inviting neighborhoods to apply for its annual Neighborhood Improvement Grant program that has updated guidelines for 2026, allowing up to $20,000 per neighborhood — applications must be submitted by March 1 and grant winners will be announced March 15.

David Taylor and his team joined McColly Real Estate on July 1—after 30 years at Century 21, they bring over 100 years of combined experience to help local buyers and sellers.

The team is known for high sales and strong client reviews that lead to many referrals.

Fire Officer Strategy and Tactics - District 1

6-10 p.m. & 8 a.m.-4 p.m. — MAAC Foundation - First Responder Training Campus — Course fee applies — Enhance your fire officer skills with strategic and tactical training sessions over several weeks.

Brewski Fest 2025

5-10 p.m. — Central Park Plaza — Join in for a day filled with great beer, good music, and awesome vibes.

Marrakesh Express - a CSNY Experience

8:00 p.m. — Memorial Opera House — $40-$80 — Experience soaring harmonies and timeless classics in a tribute to Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young.

Late Summer Car, Truck, & Bike Show and Swap Meet

9 a.m. - 3 p.m. — Porter County Expo Center — $5 entry — Enjoy a lively car and motorcycle show along with a vibrant swap meet the weekend before Labor Day.

Hayden Coffman Concert

5-11 p.m. — Sunset Hill Farm County Park — Entry Details Unavailable — Experience a night of fantastic music in the new amphitheater.

Valparaiso Popcorn Festival (46th Annual)

2-8 p.m. — Central Park Plaza — Free entry — Celebrate 46 years of popcorn fun with a parade, vendors, music, and family-friendly activities.

South Shore Roller Derby

5 p.m. — William E Urschel Pavilion — Exciting roller derby action — Experience the thrilling season opener of Northwest Indiana's premier roller derby league.