Good morning, Valparaiso.

The LNL Foundation will host the third annual Childhood Cancer is RUFF Gala on Sept.

13 at the Hellenic Cultural Center in Merrillville to honor local resident Ronan Willis, a child in remission from B-Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia who will continue monthly therapy until next July — proceeds will support his family and tickets cost $75 for adults and $25 for children.

Northwest Indiana's workforce once worked mainly in steel mills but now works in education, health care, logistics and service jobs + many workers update their skills for new opportunities.

Union leader Randy Palmateer said unions are the heart of Northwest Indiana—union wages help pay for middle-class homes and keep good jobs at local mills, refineries and ports.

Local union officials look forward to Nippon Steel’s promised investment that will bring more construction jobs to the area if plans go ahead.

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.

Bonfire: Tribute to AC/DC

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Memorial Opera House — $25-$50 — Get ready to rock with BONFIRE, the Midwest’s premier AC/DC tribute band delivering an electrifying show.

Valpo Brewfest

1-4 p.m. — Central Park Plaza — Food and beverage available for purchase — Celebrate craft beer with German style brews, tasty bites, and live music.