Good morning, Valparaiso.

On Dec. 3, residents at Belvedere Senior Housing celebrated Melissa Pawlus as the 2025 Shining Star & honored her for exceptional care and community service during a lunch with sandwiches, veggie cups, and cake.

Family members and former winners joined the event to show their support.

On Thanksgiving morning, beginner runners joined the Turkey Trot as The Next Mile Project’s free 5K training built confidence and community in Valparaiso.

The program’s beginner 5K Winter Session begins January 31, inviting new runners to build on that momentum.

Russo bought Burke's Outdoor Equipment and its massive showroom in Valparaiso, a business operating since 1963.

The acquisition is set to open new opportunities for local outdoor enthusiasts.

GreatNews.Life is hiring a Sales Account Representative and invites creative, community-minded applicants to apply today at 951 West St in Valparaiso (posting updated Dec.

8).

Purdue University Northwest offers Study Away programs that let students earn academic credit by experiencing cultural immersion in places like Costa Rica, Italy and Arizona plus receive support through pre-departure orientation and scholarships.

The programs build global networks and real-world skills for future careers.

Neil deGrasse Tyson presented 'Adventures in Science Literacy' at the Sinai Forum at Blue Chip Casino.

The event, hosted by Purdue University Northwest and attended by students and experts from the region, featured clear science tips and humor — a reminder that complex topics can be easily understood.

Valparaiso officials announced that warming centers at the Valparaiso YMCA, Porter County Public Library & Daybreak Resource Center will serve residents when temperatures and wind chills drop below freezing.

The police also offer the CARE Program to check on those needing extra help during harsh weather.

State regulators are investigating discrepancies in NIPSCO natural gas bills found during new automated meter installations at its Merrillville site+ officials say further review is underway.

The Valpo Rocket League team won the NECC Division VI Mideast Championship with a 4-2 win over Bowling Green on Dec.

3, finishing an undefeated 6-0 season. Led by Head Coach Thomas Hohnholt, they now prepare for MVC play this spring and a national tournament bid.

Cocktails & Canvas: The Jolly Snowman

6-8 p.m. — SmokeTown Blues, Valparaiso, IN — Ticket includes a free drink — Enjoy a fun painting night complete with professional guidance and creative flair.

Holidays with HealthLinc Valparaiso

4-6 p.m. — HealthLinc Valparaiso — Free — Enjoy holiday crafts, snacks, and a no-cost photo with Santa while wearing your festive pajamas.

The Caring Place 1st Annual Cookie Walk

Holiday tradition — Time not specified — Downtown Valparaiso — Ticket holders stroll to receive festive treats.

Holiday Pops!

2-7 p.m. — Memorial Opera House — $30-$60 — Celebrate the joy of music and Christmas classics with the South Shore Orchestra and a special appearance by Santa.

Echoes of Christmas

2-5 p.m. — Memorial Opera House — $40-$80 — Experience a magical evening of timeless holiday classics and dazzling visuals in a nostalgic setting.

Polar Express Screening

6:30 p.m. — Memorial Opera House — $12 Adults, $8 Children — Delight in a festive evening with a screening of The Polar Express and special guest Santa Claus.

14th Annual Chesterton Christmas Eve Jingle Bell Run

8-11 a.m. — Running Vines Winery — Free entry — Celebrate the holiday spirit with a festive fun run benefiting local charity.

NYE Wines & Wishes

5-11:59 p.m. — Trailyard by Shady Creek Winery — Reservations recommended — Savor a delicious 3-course Surf & Turf dinner special to celebrate the New Year.