Good morning, Valparaiso.

United Way Northwest Indiana announced that Day of Caring 2026 will take place on Friday, September 18, 2026 — an event that will unite local volunteers to support charitable partners.

Registration for volunteer teams and sponsorship opportunities will begin in early 2026.

Indiana Beverage has released its fall beer lineup that consumers can now find in stores.

The seasonal drinks include options like Griffin Claw Screamin Pumpkin, Dogfish Punkin, Atomic Pumpkin, and Oberpfalz Oktoberfest — each made to capture the taste of autumn.

Representatives from UIC will hold an informational session for Lake County students at the Merrillville branch of Lake County Public Library, 1919 81st Ave., from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on October 22 — the event will offer details on academic programs and admissions.

On Nov. 9, Purdue University Northwest will host College Goal Sunday at its campuses (Hammond and Westville) from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. CST to help college-bound students and families complete FAFSA forms for federal and state aid; a Spanish interpreter will assist at the Hammond location.

The City of Valparaiso announced that its annual curbside leaf pick-ups will begin October 27 through December 5, weather permitting—crews will rotate through four zones and use a new truck-mount leaf vacuum to save time and fuel—while residents are asked to rake leaves to the curb area to avoid street flooding and property damage.

The MAAC Foundation is bringing back its annual haunted house—proceeds will fund training for paramedics, police, firefighters and K9 officers across Northwest Indiana.

St. Catherine Hospital got accredited for echocardiography — a step that shows it meets high care standards.

Dale O’Donnell from Powers Health said the review proves the hospital is committed to good patient care.

Board-certified family medicine doctor Leena Aljobeh, MD joined Franciscan Physician Network and is accepting new patients at Glendale Health Center on Glendale Blvd. She earned her degree at Indiana University School of Medicine, completed her residency at Indiana University Health Arnett Hospital in Lafayette — her clinical interests include women's health, child and adolescent medicine, wellness, and preventive care while she is fluent in Arabic.

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.

Wreath Making Class

12:00 PM — Trailyard by Shady Creek Winery — Materials included — Create a festive wreath for the holiday season.