Good morning, Valparaiso.

Valparaiso Lions Vision Care and Currie Motors Ford of Valpo are hosting their first annual raffle that offers a new Ford Bronco or $40,000 in cash as the grand prize drawing today—tickets cost $100 with a limit of 1,000 and second and third prizes are $1,000 and $500 while proceeds will support local individuals with vision impairment.

Freudenberg Residential Filtration Technologies said it will close its LaPorte plant on Dec 5 (layoffs for 173 workers will start 60 days after Oct 6) as it relocates operations to a new facility in Lebanon.

Maria's Pasta Project will soon serve noodles with a variety of sauces in Valparaiso—restaurant details including the menu and launch plans are expected to be announced soon—.

Mark Edward Wilows — a veteran in radio since childhood — hosts Region Spotlight on Adams Radio Group, airing on Z107.1, X-Rock 103.9, and 105.5 to share local news and interviews with community leaders.

He also presents Hollywood Snipets on Friday after 10 a.m. and Saturday morning to provide entertainment updates to listeners.

Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business, Indiana University Northwest, and Legacy Foundation’s Lake County Advancement Committee will host Futurecast 2026 on November 21 at the Avalon Manor Banquet Center (3550 E Lincoln Hwy., Merrillville) where panelists will share insights on GDP growth, inflation, and employment; doors will open at 11:30 a.m. with lunch served at noon and $30 tickets available until November 14 at 1 p.m.

Based on market forecasts, NIPSCO announced that natural gas bills for residential customers will be 16% higher this winter (a typical use of 625 therms is estimated to cost about $665 over five months instead of $575).

The estimate is based on current supply trends and normal weather (actual costs may vary with temperature changes).

Valparaiso High School held its Homecoming game on October 3 where the Vikings lost 48-21 to Merrillville and crowned Homecoming King Kellan Hosek and Queen Madeleine Ehrhardt, followed by a 'Mamma Mia' themed Dance on October 4 that ended at 10 p.m. The school also ran a spirit week with dress themes and held Soccerfest on October 9 with seven teams—adding to a busy fall schedule of sports and concerts.

Rep. Frank J. Mrvan announced that Indiana’s First Congressional District is accepting applications from high school seniors and college students to attend U.S. Military Service Academies—applications must be submitted by November 3rd at 5:00 p.m. while younger students are encouraged to learn about the opportunities offered.

INDOT announced that Superior Construction will begin overnight lane and ramp closures on I-94 westbound at the I-65 interchange on October 17 for four weekends as part of bridge joint repair work over the CFE Railroad.

The work will occur from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays through mid-November—motorists should plan for delays.

Alexa Hosier, a Crown Point real estate agent who started with McColly Real Estate four years ago, helps local families find a true home by using skills from her past in sports broadcasting and overcoming an arm amputation.

Returning from Indianapolis and balancing a busy career with raising two young children—she shows that home means community and care.

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!

Healthy Family Day at Valparaiso YMCA

9 a.m. - noon — Valparaiso Family YMCA — Free entry — Explore resources and activities for a healthier family lifestyle.