Good morning, Valparaiso.

The Food Bank of Northwest Indiana received a $2 million grant from Darden Restaurants and Penske to purchase a refrigerated truck that will boost its food delivery to Lake and Porter counties.

The group held a ribbon cutting ceremony on October 22—marking a key step in its fight against hunger.

In Whiting, the bp Foundation partnered with Legacy Foundation to launch a grant fund to aid recovery from August storms—local organizations in Hammond, East Chicago and Whiting are eligible to receive up to $5,000 each.

Applications opened Oct. 13 and will close at 3:00 p.m. CT on Nov. 21 with award decisions delivered by Dec. 19.

Taco Bell opened its new restaurant on Melton Road in Burns Harbor — the chain’s latest Northwest Indiana location — and it is now serving local customers.

John 'Butch' Buczkowski has been a service technician at Grieger Motors since September 1990 — combining lessons from Nashville Auto-Diesel College with 35 years of hands-on repairs on oil changes, battery replacements and electrical issues — and he now mentors new hires while serving customers.

Indiana University Northwest School of Business and Economics maintained its AACSB International accreditation — its fourth consecutive approval since 2005 — which shows the school keeps strong programs and close community ties.

Northwest Health – Valparaiso celebrated 10 years of its emergency room service this month at 2000 Roosevelt Road after opening in 2015 in response to local residents' call for care when Northwest Health – Porter moved.

The facility provides 24-hour treatment and has cared for tens of thousands of patients (including families and neighbors) during urgent moments.

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.

Pink Friday Sales Event

9 AM – 7 PM — Hungry Hound Boutique & Grooming — Free entry — Discover amazing deals while supporting your local pet boutique this Pink Friday.

Watercolor Painting Class

Afternoon — Sunset Hill Farm County Park — All supplies included — Unleash your creativity in a relaxing watercolor session amidst nature.