Good morning, Valparaiso.

Tony Matt opened the region's first ninja warrior training facility in Valparaiso after repurposing playground equipment in his basement into an obstacle course inspired by his children watching American Ninja Warrior—he says the new facility will offer local families a fun, challenging workout.

The South Haven Fire Department dedicated a new Safe Haven baby box on Thursday—supported by the Knights of Columbus and Safe Haven Baby Boxes—to help new mothers safely surrender their babies at the fire station.

The installation, the 397th managed by the organization, has helped save more than 200 babies and is part of a region-wide network.

Walt's Food Centers was sold after 88 years to Berkot's Super Foods—another south suburban grocery chain.

The new owner will soon complete the transition to keep serving loyal customers.

Jeffrey Berglund has been named President of Berglund Construction.

The new leader, the fourth in his family's leadership, will work with CEO Fred Berglund to guide company strategy and growth—building on a legacy that has spanned 114 years.

Allegius Credit Union has expanded its loan programs—adding a Merchant Connect Finance Program to partner with local businesses—to offer members flexible and affordable financing for personal, auto, and credit card needs.

NiSource received IURC approval for its NIPSCO Generation LLC—GenCo—declination petition that will let the company build and manage generation assets for data center customers while protecting current users and setting the stage for regional growth.

The Lubeznik Center for the Arts will host its free First Friday event on October 3 from 5–8 p.m., where the NWI Food Council will offer a market of fall harvest items such as flowers, pumpkins, and vegetables and speak about the FarmHer to Mama program at 6 p.m.—the event will also display photography exhibits by Kenyon Plohn and Tim Lace.

New job postings are now online for Northwest Indiana job seekers + the website lists many open positions to help applicants find their next career opportunity.

Ivy Tech Community College is starting the Communication Across the Disciplines Speaker Series on Monday, September 29 from 2-3 p.m. CT at the Valparaiso Campus Auditorium — Dr. Kim Scipes will talk about global communication best practices.

Allegius Credit Union explained that shared branching lets members use over 5,000 branches across the country to make deposits, withdrawals, transfers, and loan payments so they can manage their accounts while traveling or living away from home.

The service is available at drive-up locations and can be located using the Allegius mobile app—ensuring customers stay connected even when away from their home branch.

Shared Ethics Advisory Commission will hold its 2025 Ethics Summit on October 30 at Avalon Manor in Merrillville.

Registration and breakfast begin at 8:00 a.m. with a panel of local NWI Mayors starting at 8:30 a.m. to discuss ethics in government and celebrate the commission's 20th anniversary; the summit is free and open to the public.

The public can tour 27 new homes during this year's Parade of Homes in Lake and Porter Counties—an event that offers visitors a chance to see different house styles and unique features.

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.

Field Station Frenzy Trail Run & Walk 5K

8:15-11:00 a.m. — Indiana Dunes National Park Chellberg Farm — Cost info not listed — Enjoy a fun and scenic trail run or walk through the beautiful Indiana Dunes.

The Haunted Pub Crawl of Valparaiso

7:30-10 p.m. — Franklin House — $27 — Explore Valparaiso's haunted history on a spook-tacular walking tour with eerie tales and spirits.

Writing in the Woods Poetry Workshop

3:30-5:30 p.m. — Meadowbrook Nature Preserve — Free entry — Celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day with a creative poetry workshop led by local experts.

The Oogie Boogie Man Painting Event

6-8 p.m. — Four Corners Winery — Tickets required — Unleash your creativity with a glow-in-the-dark Halloween painting experience.

The Haunted Pub Crawl of Valparaiso

7:30-10 p.m. — Franklin House — $27 — Embark on a spooky walking tour exploring Valparaiso's haunted history and ghostly establishments.

The Boo Pumpkin Painting Event

6-8 p.m. — Smoketown Blues — Ticketed — Experience a spooktacular painting session with friends or solo while enjoying delicious food.

The Haunted Pub Crawl of Valparaiso

7:30-10:00 p.m. — Franklin House — $27 — Explore Valparaiso's haunted history with a spirited walking tour featuring chilling tales and eerie establishments.