Beach access has been restored at Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk with the completion of a new trail to replace the one destroyed by storms last fall. Beach-goers should use caution due to driftwood and other storm debris deposited on or near the beach by winter and spring storms. The beach at Portage Lakefront also is much narrower than normal due to Lake Michigan being near its all-time high-level mark. In addition, there are no lifeguards. Swimming is strongly discouraged when there is rough water or large waves due to the danger of potentially deadly rip currents, and children should always be closely monitored. More information is at 219-395-1882 or at www.nps.gov/indu.

Porter Regional Hospital offers a variety of diabetes education and programs to the community. Diabetes Self-Management, a comprehensive program that empower patients to control their own health, begin at the start of each month and continues for four weeks. A physician’s order and registration are required. Classes are offered on a rotating basis monthly. Individual appointments also are available. A physician’s order and registration are required. Appointments may be made with either a certified diabetes educator or registered dietitian, depending on treatment method and needs. Details and registration either option are at 219-263-7992.

Opportunity Enterprises will host a workshop on Funeral Trusts from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesday at 2801 Evans Ave., Valparaiso. Presented by Beverly Huber, preplanning adviser at Geisen Funeral Homes, the workshop will serve as part of the organization’s Disability Resource Series. Guests should enter through Door No. 2 on the northwest side of the building. The event, free and open to the public, will cover an array of questions regarding Funeral Trusts and their benefits. Registration is with Amy Wulf at 219-464-9621, Ext. 333, or amy.wulf@oppent.org or at www.oppent.org.

United Way Regional Volunteer Center is seeking volunteers to help local nonprofits during its annual Day of Caring event from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 9. As the largest single-day volunteer event across Northwest Indiana, Day of Caring brings together nonprofits, families, local businesses, municipalities, churches, civic groups and individuals to help with facility improvements and client-support projects. Those who are unable to participate in onsite projects can host collection drives and donate blood. The day will begin with a free breakfast rally in one of two locations: at the William E. Urschel Pavilion, 70 Lafayette St., Valparaiso; or at the Portage Township YMCA, 3100 Willowcreek Road. Register by July 19 to guarantee receipt of a free Day of Caring T-shirt. More information and registration are at nwivolunteer.org.

Common Pathologies and Treatments of the Shoulder will be presented from 5-6:30 p.m. July 18 at Community Hospital Outpatient Centre, 9660 Wicker Ave., St. John. An Orthopedic Surgeon and a Community Hospital Physical Therapist will discuss common injuries and pathologies of the shoulder, common surgical and non-surgical interventions as well as preventative exercise and rehabilitation. The program is free, but registration is required at 219-836-3477 or at 866-836-3477. More information is at www.comhs.org.

-Staff Report