Good morning, Valparaiso.

Girls on the Run Northwest Indiana changed its name to Girls on the Run Indiana Crossroads to show its growth from 10 to 21 counties—expanding its service from urban and lakefront areas to rural communities.

The nonprofit has helped over 24,000 girls since 2007 and plans to reach even more youth under its new name.

On October 4, students, parents, and teachers enjoyed a spirited car wash fundraiser hosted by Lake Ridge New Tech Middle School PTSA + Jackson Family Visual and Performing Arts, which featured a surprise visit by a Lake Ridge Fire Department engine.

The event renewed efforts to boost parent involvement and will fund materials for future meetings and upcoming school productions.

United Way Northwest Indiana presented a $10,000 check to the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana to support efforts in fighting hunger and increasing access to healthy food in our area.

The donation underscores both organizations' commitment to working together to help families meet their basic needs — a sign of strong community care.

PanoramaNOW reported that strategic SEO efforts produced 6,850 organic clicks and 349,000 search impressions over the past month by updating blog content and adding targeted internal links—efforts that also improved mobile performance and user engagement.

Women professionals from across northwest Indiana were honored for their impact at the Influential Women of Northwest Indiana Awards — the event recognized leadership and community excellence.

Duneland School Corp is proposing a $95M budget for 2026—an increase of $5.5M over this year’s certified spending plan.

The plan will guide spending decisions for the upcoming school year.

Valparaiso Community Schools is proposing a one-year contract that includes a $2,000 raise for returning teachers — a plan that school officials will review before final approval.

Greg Mikulich leads Knox Community Schools as superintendent and uses daily fist bumps to build a positive culture—methods he developed over decades in education.

He commutes about 45 to 50 minutes from Lowell and balances his job with being a caring parent.

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.

Toastmasters, public speaking

Public speaking tips and enjoying stories at Valparaiso Library, 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Open Meeting

12-8 p.m. — Fraternal Order of Eagles — Free entry — Monthly gathering for Chapter 102 with sign-in and meeting starting at 6:30 p.m.