Good morning, Valparaiso.

The third annual Childhood Cancer is RUFF Gala will be held Saturday, Sept 13 at the Hellenic Cultural Center in Merrillville and will offer a cash bar, silent auction, dinner and live entertainment.

Valparaiso resident Ronan Willis, diagnosed with leukemia last Valentine’s Day, will be honored—proceeds will support his family.

Journeyman Distillery’s American Factory has launched its Cocktails for a Cause program that donates $1 from each cocktail sale+ matching contributions from the distillery to local groups.

The program, which began in June, has raised thousands for organizations like Hilltop Neighborhood House, Tri Kappa and Lakeshore PAWS and will continue through August with plans to support more community causes.

Emergency responders pulled a man from Long Lake in Liberty Township Monday evening after the Porter County Dive Team spotted him 100 feet off the shore—bystanders sharing live details on social media slowed the rescue.

A 29-year-old man from Valparaiso led police on a brief chase early Monday, shot himself and crashed into a Speedway gas station on Indian Boundary Road—police said a fleeing female passenger reported the incident and confirmed his death while no officers were injured.

Yesterday, the Indiana Secured School Safety Board approved over $27.1 million in grants for nearly 495 schools, with nearly $3.3 million going to schools in Lake, Porter and LaPorte counties—funds to boost school resource officers, safety equipment and training.

The grants will require schools to match funding at set levels and continue the state’s commitment to safer learning environments.

U.S. Steel is asking to change its air permit for the Gary Works mill — which would test particulate emissions every five years and let some processes skip pollution rules — as environmental groups warn that the changes could mean more pollution.

The Indiana Department of Environmental Management is holding a public hearing today at 6 p.m. at the 21st Century Charter School gym at 556 Washington Street in Gary.

Porter County Government is advising residents to promptly review their property tax assessments since rising government costs and inflation are driving tax increases, according to Treasurer Jimmy Albarran.

He explained that new legislative changes will convert the senior tax deduction into a credit and urged residents to check their bills—helping them understand their share of the levy.

NorthShore Health Centers – OGA opened in Valpo in 2024 after Obstetrical Gynecological Associates merged with NorthShore Health Centers to expand women's health services.

The clinic now offers prenatal, menopausal, and walk-in care and uses modern methods to serve a growing community.

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.