Good morning, Valparaiso.

Greg Madouros has boosted the Lake County Public Library's workplace giving campaign supporting United Way Northwest Indiana by raising (over $6,700) this year through creative events and employee engagement.

His efforts build community ties and help local programs.

Indiana American Water donated $10,000 to the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana to help supply 30,000 meals for Lake and Porter counties during the holiday season.

The donation is part of a $34,000 statewide distribution — easing food insecurity amid economic challenges — allocated to local food banks.

Lexi Wentz, a Valpo native who opened Stayin Alive Thrifted Boutique in Feb.

2024, curates unique items to promote sustainability and foster close community bonds. The store, located near downtown at 1451 Joliet Road, offers an eco-friendly alternative to fast-fashion shopping.

DeMotte realtor Kate-Lynn Holley — formerly a professional wrestler — combines her real estate work with social media reviews of Northwest Indiana’s lemon rice soup, earning her the nickname Lemon Rice Realtor.

She also supports local STEM education at the Challenger Learning Center.

Lindenwood Retreat Center in Donaldson offers retreats for rest, reflection and renewal on a peaceful campus near Lake Galbraith.

The center uses sustainable practices and simple living, hosting group and personal retreats along scenic trails for all who need a break from fast-paced life.

Local entrepreneur Tevlyn Schwerd, founder of Coash Clothing Co., shares her journey from ballet to New York design during the season premiere of All About The Girls with Jenny, highlighting her creative return and her brand’s availability at Little Bear Traders and Woolens in St. John (showcasing Valparaiso pride).

Indiana University Northwest’s Center for Urban and Regional Excellence is enrolling adults and seniors in free non-credit courses covering topics like digital tools, cybersecurity, and public speaking.

Classes will be held at local sites & online in January and February, with registration deadlines varying by course.

Since Nov. 9, severe winter weather forced Valparaiso City Services to change its leaf collection by using loaders and dump trucks, and it will resume vacuum services in spring.

Residents may drop off bagged leaves at the compost site on 2150 W. Lincolnway — pick-up is free off-season.

Franciscan Health Crown Point and Michigan City will host free monthly stroke support groups for survivors and caregivers.

Michigan City meets on the second Tuesday of every month at 2 p.m. in its conference room, while Crown Point sessions alternate monthly (first meeting on Feb. 2).

Veterans of Comedy

7-10 p.m. — Art Theater — $25 General Admission — Enjoy a night of laughter hosted by Alex Ortiz with featured performances from Zako Ryan, Kirk Mchenry, and Robert Day.

Bad Momz of Comedy

7-10 p.m. — Memorial Opera House — Tickets required — Enjoy a night of laughter with the amazing Bad Momz of Comedy as seen on the Kelly Clarkson Show.

Vision Book Workshop

5:30 p.m. — Cooks Corners School — Free entry — Create a vision for your life through collaging images and affirmations.

Art: Paint and Pour

5-7 p.m. — Valparaiso Public Library — Registration required — Create a funky painting while enjoying your favorite beverage in a relaxed atmosphere.

PCMGA Gardening Show

8 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Porter County Fairgrounds — $10 entry, children under 12 free — Celebrate your love for gardening with door prizes and community spirit.