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Singin’ in the Rain Auditions Director: Scot MacDonald Vocal Director: Linda Schonbachler Music Director: Cindy Hansen Choreographers: Alexandria Ingram & Trish Sabocik Screenplay By Betty Comden and Adolph Green Songs By Nacio Herb Brown and Arthur Freed Auditions: Monday, December 9th at 7pm and Tuesday, December 10th at 7pm at Memorial Opera House, 104 Indiana Ave, Valparaiso, IN 46383. Callbacks (as needed): Wednesday, December 11th at 7pm at Memorial Opera House. Please fill out the Audition
Franciscan’s Fresh Start Market opening in Michigan City Food pantry just one part of program addressing food insecurity MICHIGAN CITY, Indiana – Franciscan Health’s latest Fresh Start Market is slated to open in Michigan City next month as part of the healthcare ministry’s ongoing efforts to fight food insecurity. Beginning Dec. 4, the food pantry will be open to Franciscan Health patients on the first Wednesday of the month from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Central and to the general public on the
Imagine weaving your dreams of entrepreneurial success with the person you trust and cherish the most—your significant other. It’s a narrative filled with potential, promising an adventure that merges the thrill of business with the beauty of companionship. Yet, this journey requires more than just shared dreams and aspirations; it demands strategic planning and a keen awareness of how to balance love and partnership in the business sphere. This guide will light your path, offering insights and strategies
Plastic Reduction Alliance of NWI Collaborates with Alley Kat’s Curiosity Shoppe to host the first Holiday Swap, Thrift, and Gift Event Valparaiso, IN- The Plastic Reduction Alliance of NWI (PRA) and Alley Kat’s Curiosity Shoppe are partnering for this FREE event to swap your holiday trinkets for something new to you! Join us to promote sustainability and reduce single-use plastics this holiday season on Thursday, December 5th, 2024 at Alley Kat’s Curiosity Shoppe (1515 Roosevelt Rd, Valparaiso, IN
INDIANA SET TO CELEBRATE 49th “GREAT AMERICAN SMOKE OUT” Hoosiers Encouraged to “Be A Quitter Today” (Porter County, IN) – In celebration of the American Cancer Society’s 48th Great American Smokeout on Nov. 21st, Hoosiers across Indiana are encouraged to “make the commitment and quit smoking today”. “With the holidays just around the corner, it’s a great time for people to give the ‘gift’ of a better life to themselves and to their family and friends by quitting. With fewer places to smoke
CoAction Launches ‘Embrace’ Campaign to Transform Affordable Housing in Northwest Indiana Northwest Indiana – CoAction, a nonprofit organization committed to enhancing community flourishing through affordable housing and essential support services, is pleased to announce the launch of its "Embrace" campaign. This initiative seeks to unite residents, businesses, and community leaders to address the pressing housing needs of 252 families in Northwest Indiana who currently lack access to
UNITED WAY HELPS DISBURSE FEDERAL FUNDS TO LOCAL JASPER COUNTY PROGRAMS What: The United Way of Northwest Indiana (UWNWI) will administer $22,780 from the Federal Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) to support local food programs in Jasper County The funds will not be available to individuals. The award was made by the EFSP National Board, which is chaired by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency. The EFSP National Board consists of representatives from
International minerals supplier establishing first U.S. facility at Ports of Indiana-Jeffersonville to support green manufacturing Lumina Sustainable Materials to open mineral processing, research hub in Jeffersonville JEFFERSONVILLE, Ind. (Nov. 12, 2024) – An international supplier of specialized minerals will develop its first U.S. facility at Ports of Indiana-Jeffersonville to supply Midwest manufacturers with greener mineral additives. Lumina Sustainable Materials will invest $14.3
MICHIGAN CITY, Indiana -- Franciscan Health Michigan City is presenting a free suicide prevention course in December aimed at saving lives. The entry level question, persuade and refer or QPR Suicide Prevention Course is based on curriculum developed by the QPR Institute. The course aims to save lives and reduce suicidal behaviors by providing innovative, practical and proven suicide prevention training. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is one of the leading
DUNELAND FAMILY YMCA CELEBRATES RECORD-BREAKING SUCCESS AT DANCING LIKE THE STARS EVENT ________ CHESTERTON, IN – November 7, 2024 – Duneland Family YMCA is delighted to celebrate a record-breaking success at the Dancing Like the Stars-Band Together For The Y annual fundraising event, raising over $170,000 to support the local community through scholarships and financial assistance for childcare, memberships, active older adult programs, and other services. This sold-out show was held on Saturday,
GODSPELL SHINES AT 4 TH STREET THEATER 4 th Street Theater announces the opening of the beloved musical, Godspell—2012 Revised Version on Friday, November 1 st , to a weekend of sold out performances. The show will continue to run through Sunday, November 24 th at 4 th Street Theater, 125 N. Fourth Street in Chesterton. Directed by Michael Glorioso of Valparaiso, this production brings to life the timeless parables of the Gospel according to Matthew through a compelling blend of songs, dances, and
Northwest Health Emergency Medical Services partners with InHealth Integrated Care Valparaiso, IN - Today Northwest Health announced a partnership with inHealth Integrated Care to ensure optimal emergency services in Porter County. Northwest Health holds the county contract for EMS services, responding to 911 calls from four stations within Porter County. To best meet the needs of the community, Northwest Health and inHealth have agreed to partner for stronger utilization of
Indiana Dunes Tourism Launches $50,000 Grant Program to Fund Community Projects, Marketing Initiatives and Unique Events PORTER, Ind.—Indiana Dunes Tourism is offering $50,000 in grants to fund community projects, marketing initiatives and unique events that attract visitors to Porter County. The grant program aligns with the organization's mission to attract new and repeat visitors to Porter County by enhancing their stay through the promotion of attractions, marketing efforts and new product
Audits and compliance shape the path organizations take, ensuring operations remain lawful and consistent. The demanding nature of these processes often burdens professionals, adding pressure to their responsibilities. Transforming this challenge into an opportunity requires smart strategies that align regulatory needs with operational enhancement. Leveraging new approaches can simplify audits while strengthening a company's overall framework. This shift turns what once felt burdensome into a seamless
Ports of Indiana receives $500,000 grant from U.S. EPA Clean Ports to study emissions reduction at Jeffersonville, Mount Vernon ports INDIANAPOLIS (Oct. 29, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced today that Ports of Indiana will receive a $500,000 grant to study emission-reduction activities at its Jeffersonville and Mount Vernon ports on the Ohio River. Ports of Indiana is among 55 projects at ports nationwide to receive grants from EPA’s Clean Ports Program
VALPARAISO – The Valparaiso American Legion Riders Post 94 held its inaugural Forever Our Heroes ride on August 10, 2024 with nearly 50 riders who stopped at American Legions in Michigan City, Kingsford Heights and Kouts. The ride raised $12,500 for VNA Hospice NWI in recognition of its We Honor Veterans program. A group of Legion Riders presented the check to VNA Hospice on Sunday, October 27, 2024 at its administrative offices in Valparaiso. “VNA Hospice is extremely grateful for this generous gift
VALPARAISO – The Valparaiso American Legion Riders Post 94 held its inaugural Forever Our Heroes ride on August 10, 2024 with nearly 50 riders who stopped at American Legions in Michigan City, Kingsford Heights and Kouts. The ride raised $12,500 for VNA Hospice NWI in recognition of its We Honor Veterans program. A group of Legion Riders presented the check to VNA Hospice on Sunday, October 27, 2024 at its administrative offices in Valparaiso. “VNA Hospice is extremely grateful for this generous gift that
This Veterans Day, Memorial Opera House celebrates the service of our veterans on its 131st birthday! Symphonic Tribute: A Salute to Our Heroes is a special Veterans Day performance by South Shore Orchestra dedicated to honoring the bravery and sacrifices of our nation's veterans. South Shore Orchestra's 20th Anniversary season continues with this celebration concert honoring United States veterans! Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War will begin the performance by posting the colors. Led
PORTER, Ind.—Indiana Dunes Tourism is offering $50,000 in grants to fund community projects, marketing initiatives and unique events that attract visitors to Porter County. The grant program aligns with the organization's mission to attract new and repeat visitors to Porter County by enhancing their stay through the promotion of attractions, marketing efforts and new product development. The grant application process opens on Friday, November 1, and the deadline for submission is Sunday, December 1, at
PORTAGE, Ind. (Oct. 28, 2024) – Officials welcomed the new ocean vessel ‘Federal Indiana’ to Ports of Indiana-Burns Harbor on Monday, marking the ship’s first visit to its namesake state. Launched in 2024, the Federal Indiana is owned and operated by Fednav, Canada’s largest bulk shipping company. The vessel is 200 meters long and 24 meters wide, the largest possible dimensions for Seawaymax vessels that pass through the locks connecting the Great Lakes
Valparaiso, IN – The Recycling and Waste Reduction District of Porter County will reduce the Valparaiso Compost Sites hours in preparation for Daylight Savings. Effective Monday, November 4 th , 2024, the Valparaiso Compost Site hours will be 8am-4pm Monday-Saturday. Portage and Boone Grove Sites will remain unchanged until winter hours begin in December. Compost Site hours beginning November 4 th , 2024 will be as follows: - Valparaiso Compost Site Hours (2150 W Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN
The Society of Innovators at Purdue Northwest Announce the 2024 Innovators Award Winners HAMMOND and WESTVILLE, Ind. – The Society of Innovators at Purdue Northwest has announced winners of the 2024 Innovators Awards. Winners will be inducted into the Society during the group’s annual luncheon starting at 11:30 a.m. CST on Nov. 20 at Purdue University Northwest’s Westville campus, 1401 S. U.S. 421, Westville, Ind. “The quality of the inductees identified this year by the selection committee is
BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF GREATER NORTHWEST INDIANA ANNOUNCES SUCCESS OF 2024 RETURN TO LEARN MATCH CAMPAIGN Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana (BGCGNWI) announces the success of their 2024 Return to Learn match campaign, which took place September 12-28 and coincides with the beginning of the new school year. Thanks to the community’s outpouring of support, BGCGNWI not only reached its $100,000 match goal but exceeded it by more than double with a grand total of $211,799 – an impressive 50%
WINTER HEATING BILLS FORECASTED TO INCREASE COMPARED TO LAST YEAR, REMAIN LOWER THAN RECENT PEAK IN 2022 MERRILLVILLE, Ind. – Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO) LCC announced today that natural gas residential customers can expect an increase in their winter heating bills this season compared to last year. Based on current market projections and assuming normal winter weather, bills for natural gas residential customers are estimated to be 15 percent higher in contrast to cost at
CELEBRATING LOCAL BUSINESSES AND COMMUNITY FAVORITES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON SCHERERVILLE, INDIANA, October 17, 2024: Town Planner of Northwest Indiana is excited to announce the launch of "Northwest Indiana's Favorite Things," a groundbreaking contest designed to showcase and celebrate the best that Northwest Indiana (NWI) has to offer. This initiative aims to spotlight local businesses and community favorites just in time for the holiday season. Starting October 14, 2024, Northwest Indiana residents
This Women’s Small Business Month, we’re celebrating the tools that are fueling the success of women entrepreneurs everywhere. Running a business requires balancing countless responsibilities, and Adobe Acrobat is here to help streamline the journey. From simplifying document workflows to enhancing team communication, Acrobat is designed to help entrepreneurs work smarter, not harder. These intuitive tools make day-to-day tasks seamless, allowing business owners to dedicate their time to what truly
Taking the plunge into entrepreneurship is akin to embarking on an exhilarating yet demanding adventure. For immigrant entrepreneurs, this journey is often marked by additional hurdles, ranging from navigating intricate financial regulations to building a brand that genuinely resonates with diverse communities. However, these challenges are not insurmountable. With resilience, adaptability, and a proactive mindset, the seemingly daunting path to success can transform into a rewarding expedition.Mastering
Pulmonology, critical care physician joins Franciscan Physician Network in Michigan City MICHIGAN CITY, Indiana – Pulmonary and critical care physician David Villafuerte Martinez, MD, is now part of the Franciscan Physician Network and is accepting new patients in Michigan City. Dr. Villafuerte Martinez is board-certified in pulmonary and critical care medicine. He attended medical school at Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador in Ecuador and completed both his residency and fellowship at the
LA PORTE, Ind. --Board-certified Orthopedic Surgeon Thomas Magill, MD, is now part of the Franciscan Physician Network and is accepting new patients in La Porte. Dr. Magill completed his training at the University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor, Mich. He completed his residency in orthopedic surgery at McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University in Chicago. His clinical interests are sports surgeries for upper and lower extremities, hand surgery, joint reconstruction of shoulders, knees
INDIANAPOLIS (Feb. 26, 2024) – Ports of Indiana shipped 12.6 million tons of cargo in 2023, the second-highest tonnage in its 63-year history. This is a 6-percent increase over 2022 and second only to 2018, when Indiana’s three ports handled 14.8 million tons of cargo. The largest single cargo increase in 2023 was coal exports from Mount Vernon, which jumped 78 percent. Fertilizer increased more than 11 percent overall, with double-digit gains at Mount Vernon and Jeffersonville, while soy products,
MERRILLVILLE, Ind. – NIPSCO, a subsidiary of NiSource Inc. (NYSE: NI), today announced the deployment of upgraded electric meters through the installation of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) technology. After extensive planning and regulatory engagement, NIPSCO is preparing to install meters for 3,000 electric residential customers in Highland, Ind. beginning in March 2024. This technology will be installed in phases to the remaining 490,000 electric residential and business customers throughout
HAMMOND and WESTVILLE, Ind. — Financial aid professionals will be available at Purdue University Northwest’s (PNW) Hammond and Westville campuses during the College Goal Sunday programs on Feb. 25. The free event will take place from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. CST and will help college-bound students and their families apply for financial aid. College Goal Sunday programs provide assistance to students in filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA form is required for students to be
Valparaiso, IN – Ivy Tech Community College will host free workshop February 25, 2024 to help students and community members apply for financial aid. Workshop will be held from 2pm to 4pm CT at the Ivy Tech Valparaiso campus. The free program assists Indiana students in filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA form is required for students to be considered for federal and state grants, scholarships, and federal student loans at most colleges, universities, and
Valparaiso, IN – Northwest Health has earned accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) for its new internal medicine residency program which will help attract, train and retain physicians to the region. This internal medicine residency program will add to the existing graduate medical education at Northwest Health, where an ACGME-accredited family medicine program is already operating. ACGME is an independent organization that sets and monitors the professional
INDIANAPOLIS (Jan. 18, 2024) – Ports of Indiana has improved its engineering and accounting resources with the hiring of new staff members at three locations. The organization hired two veteran engineers in its Mount Vernon and Indianapolis offices, and a senior accountant at the Burns Harbor port. Brad Mills and Tim Barnett bring more than 53 years of combined engineering experience to Ports of Indiana, joining Mark Keen, a Certified Public Accountant with a master’s degree in accounting. This marks the
Family Express of Valparaiso, IN has unveiled a new contemporary prototype ahead of its ambitious expansion plans. For the last three decades, the company’s exterior architecture was characterized by its classical, colonial look. The new prototype has a contemporary flair, and it is esthetically more inviting to a younger demographic. Family Express Corporation’s President and Chief Executive Officer Gus Olympidis explained, “The new prototype is challenging a successful tradition. Very much like sending
VALPARAISO, Ind. – The Recycling and Waste Reduction District of Porter County will host its 16th annual Earth Day celebration from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 20, 2024 at the Porter County Expo Center. The event is free to the public and will feature an array of vendors, wildlife shows, a magician performance, interactive children's games, guest speakers, birdhouse building, live music, food, giveaways and an estimated 2,000 attendees. Registration is currently open for Earth Day vendors and
VALPARAISO – VNA Hospice of Northwest Indiana is pleased to announce its 2024 Joyce Alexa Advocate of the Year Award will be presented to Congressman Frank Mrvan on March 11, 2024, at the VNA Hospice of NWI’s Annual dinner. The Advocate of the Year Award honors the service and legacy of former VNA of NWI administrator and board member Joyce Alexa. The award inscription reads: Joyce Alexa served the VNA as a nurse, administrator, and board member for over 40 years. She advocated for fair legislative
CROWN POINT, Ind. – The emergency department at Franciscan Health Crown Point will move to the new hospital on Sunday, Jan. 28, when the hospital is scheduled to open to the public. At 6 a.m. Central on Jan. 28, the emergency department at the new Franciscan Health Crown Point hospital at 12750 Saint Francis Drive will open and the existing emergency department at 1201 S. Main St. will simultaneously close. The new hospital at U.S. 231 and Interstate 65 is accessible from the roundabout on U.S. 231
VALPARAISO, Ind. – The Recycling and Waste Reduction District of Porter County invites residents to an Upcycled Valentine’s Day Family Workshop in partnership with Art Barn. The workshop will take place on Saturday, February 10, 2023, 1 p.m. through 4 p.m. at Art Barn School of Art (695 N 400 E, Valparaiso, IN 46383). Registration is open to the public with a limit of 24 participants
LA PORTE, Ind. – Franciscan Alliance will fully acquire Franciscan Beacon Hospital this spring, representatives announced today. Franciscan Alliance and Beacon Health System entered an agreement in 2018 for a 50/50 joint partnership for the creation of Franciscan Beacon Hospital at 1010 State Road 2 in La Porte, which included a building expansion project. The unique, 92,500-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility includes a 24-hour, 10-bed emergency department, eight inpatient beds for overnight
JEFFERSONVILLE, Ind. (Dec. 13, 2023) – Infrastructure investments surpassing $1.1 million were recently completed at Ports of Indiana-Jeffersonville through a yearlong series of road and rail projects by Ports of Indiana and MG Rail, the port’s rail switcher.“We strive to maintain first-class infrastructure and facilities to support the economic growth of our customers and the regional economy,” said Port Director George Ott. “Ports of Indiana-Jeffersonville and MG Rail partner to provide a vital link in
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Nov. 21, 2023 Purdue University Northwest to honor 694 candidates at fall commencement HAMMOND, Ind. — Purdue University Northwest (PNW) will host its annual fall commencement exercises on Saturday, Dec. 9. A total of 694 candidates have completed plans of study in PNW’s academic colleges of Business; Engineering and Sciences; Humanities, Education and Social Sciences; Nursing; and Technology. Honors College graduates who have completed enriched multidisciplinary academic
November 21, 2023FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMedia Alert/ General InterestBy: Gabrielle Gresham Recycling & Waste Reduction District of Porter County Announces Thanksgiving and Winter Hours Valparaiso, IN – Recycling & Waste Reduction District of Porter County has released its Thanksgiving and winter hours of operation. · Thursday, November 23, 2023: District office and all Compost Sites closed.· Friday, November 24, 2023: District office, Boone Grove Compost Site, and Portage Compost
You don’t need a college degree to become a successful entrepreneur, regardless of common misconceptions. With the right resources, networking opportunities, certifications, and initiative, you can achieve success without spending years in school. The Duneland Chamber of Commerce understands that small business owners sometimes need support, which is why we've compiled some tips for becoming a success without a business degree. Let's take a look:There Are A Wealth Of Resources Available Online The
As an entrepreneur, you probably spend much of your time and energy on your work. However, it's also important to make time for breaks and take care of yourself. By making self-care part of your life, you can manage stress and focus on achieving more. Effects of Stress on Productivity Although small amounts of stress can have some benefits, long-term stress negatively affects your productivity and well-being. If you're feeling stressed, you may struggle to focus, think creatively and stay energized. In
The fourth quarter is upon us – and for small businesses, that means it's time to start wrapping up the year and preparing for the next one. While stressful, this process is critical to ensuring a smooth transition and continued success. So here's a detailed rundown of what you need to do to get your business ready for the fourth quarter courtesy of the Duneland Chamber of Commerce. How Has This Year Gone? The first step in fourth-quarter planning is to review your goals for the year. Take a
The Duneland area of Indiana is a great place to start a business. With its close proximity to Chicago and its growing population, the Duneland area is ripe with opportunity for entrepreneurs. If you're thinking about starting a business in the Duneland area, here's what you need to do to set yourself up for success.Come Up With a Profitable Business Idea The first step to starting any successful business is coming up with a profitable idea. What goods or services can you provide that people in the