Good morning, Valparaiso.

The CPKC Holiday Train will pass through Chesterton early Sunday, Nov.

23 at 3:42 a.m. CST—its tour raises money, food and awareness for local food banks and runs from Nov. 19 to Dec. 21.

The Porter County Community Foundation awarded $203,453 in grants to 25 local nonprofits as part of its fall Community Fund cycle—supporting projects such as theater upgrades, building repairs, and community programs.

The next grant cycle will open in January with an application deadline of February 15.

The BP Foundation has partnered with Legacy Foundation to launch a grant program that provides up to $5,000 per organization for recovery efforts in Hammond, East Chicago, and Whiting following the August storms.

Applications will be accepted until November 21st and award decisions will be emailed by December 19th — the program supports local groups in recovery and readiness for future emergencies.

The Crossroads Chamber will host its annual gala, Putting on The Ritz: Cheers to 15 Years, on November 15 from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at Hard Rock Casino—presented by Franciscan Health, it will honor local first responders and educators with awards and live entertainment for more than 400 guests.

The Miles with Misty Free Beginner 5K Training Program begins Saturday, October 18 at 9:00 a.m. at Fairgrounds Park/Butterfield Pavilion—this free six-week program, led by Coach Misty, will help locals build strength, confidence, and community ahead of the Valparaiso Turkey Trot this Thanksgiving Day—registration is open until it closes soon.

Ciao Bella Ristorante and Pizzeria, known for its Italian dishes, closed this week after serving local diners for 16 years — the closure ends a long-standing option for Northwest Indiana residents.

Lubeznik Center for the Arts will present LIT!

Site-Specific Installations by Maria Burundarena and Luftwerk from November 7 to February 15 in Michigan City—free events include an opening reception on November 7 from 5-8 p.m. CT, a gallery talk on November 15 at 11:30 a.m. CT and a Family Day on January 24 from 1-3 p.m. CT.

A concert titled 'La Dolce Sinfonia' will be held Friday, October 17 at 7:30 p.m. at Living Hope Church in Merrillville—where tenor Jesse Donner will perform Italian pieces to mark Maestro Muspratt's 25th anniversary season.

Mike Rayson is the principal at Cooks Corners Elementary School who grew up in Lake County and built his career in education after earning a degree from Calumet New Tech High School—he now works hard to build strong ties with students, staff, and families in Valparaiso.

The City of Valparaiso is asking for nominations for its Rising Star Award program—set up by the Mayor’s Youth Council—to honor local youth aged 10 to 18 for their hard work; nominations are due by November 9.

Vale Park Animal Hospital in Valparaiso highlights its team of registered veterinary technicians—Kyra Dabbert, Rebecca Stone, and Stephanie Perz—who deliver gold-standard pet care through advanced training and specialized skills.

Their efforts in surgery, diagnostics, and mentoring help keep local pets healthy and supported.

Coach Misty's free six-week beginner 5K training program begins Saturday, October 18 at Fairgrounds Park/Butterfield Pavilion on 704 McCord Rd — the program helps participants improve their health, build confidence, and join a supportive community in Valparaiso.

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.

Porter County Sports & Trading Card Show

9 a.m. - 3 p.m. — Porter County Fairgrounds — Tables available — Browse 100 tables of sports cards, trading cards, collectibles, and memorabilia!