West Side Leadership Academy presents ‘Cougar Commitment’ night

The Gary Community School Corporation will host “Cougar Commitment” night, a special registration fair for incoming freshmen currently attending Gary Middle School and Bailly STEM Academy, from 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday at 900 Gerry St., Gary. Eighth-graders will have the opportunity to sign up for classes, meet current West Side Leadership Academy teachers, students and administration, and learn about sports and other extracurricular activities offered at the high school. In addition, district officials will share information with families about requirements and options for the state-mandated pathways to graduation. The new tracks allow students to select various courses and “pathways” to meet graduation requirements. The Gary Community School Corporation has open enrollment, and any family, regardless of where they reside, can enroll and attend any of the schools within the district. More information can be found at garyschools.org or call 219-881-5466.

NIPSCO, Gabis Arboretum host annual Arbor Day Celebration

NIPSCO and Gabis Arboretum at Purdue Northwest are hosting the ninth annual Arbor Day Celebration at 5:30 p.m. Friday at the arboretum, 450 W 100 N, Valparaiso. The evening will include a planting ceremony, an evening walk to see previous Arbor Day plantings and free tree giveaways. A representative from NIPSCO will also be on site to offer tips on where to safely plant trees. The Arbor Day Celebration is free but arboretum admission fees apply for non-members. Trees are available to those who pre-register at pnw.edu/arbor-day.

Porter County Recycling’s Annual Earth Day celebration

Porter County Recycling and Waste Reduction will host their Annual Earth Day celebration from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday at the Porter County Expo Center, 215 E. Division Road, Valparaiso. The event schedule includes live animal shows, rain barrel design contest, exhibits, family activities and giveaways. More than 50 vendors will be on hand. Parking and admission is free. More information is at portercountyrecycling.org/earth-day.

Wedding Anniversary Mass

Holy Angel Cathedral will hold a Wedding Anniversary Mass for married couples celebrating a five-year milestone in their marriage at 4 p.m. on May 7 at Holy Angels Cathedral, 640 Tyler St, Gary. Family members are welcome to attend. A light reception will follow. Registration is required by Sunday. More information is with Rosanne Kouris at rkouris@dcgary.org or at 219-769-9292, Ext. 259.

Kentucky Derby fundraiser to be held virtually

The Northern Indiana Chapter of the Links Inc. will host its 12th Annual Kentucky Derby Fundraiser virtually from 4 to 6 p.m. May 7. DJ ALL OWT will host the affair, and entertainment will be provided by Chicago-born comedian Damon Williams. Funds raised support college scholarships, various program initiatives including STEM activities at Frankie McCullough Academy, a NSBE Jr. Chapter at Thea Bowman, bullying, chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes, mental health awareness, prostate and breast cancer awareness and heart disease. Tickets for the virtual event are $25 and can be purchased at https://www.eventbrite.com/o/northern-indi ana-links-inc-29324050463. Raffle tickets also are available for $25. For raffle tickets or more information about sponsorships, contact Keisha White at kwhite11298@yahoo.com or 219-308-4738. For general information, visit www.northerninlinks.org.