Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 11th of December.
Good morning, Valparaiso.
🏘️ Community
The Salvation Army of Northwest Indiana is struggling with its Red Kettle Campaign due to extreme cold and early snow, which have reduced foot traffic and left it at 40% of its $374,500 goal by Dec.
4. Residents can donate online to support vital services in Lake + Porter counties.
VNA Hospice NWI held its 21st Annual Tree of Remembrance event on Tuesday, Dec.
9 at Christ Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, offering families a chance to honor lost loved ones and connect with community support for the holidays.
Strack & Van Til partnered with the Food Bank of NWI on Tuesday, Dec.
8 to pack 2,000 meals for local families during the holiday season. The company also launched its Checkout Challenge Roundup Campaign as local shoppers helped boost donations + support community nourishment.
The Salvation Army of Northwest Indiana says donations are low after cold weather and early snow reduced foot traffic at its Red Kettles in Lake and Porter counties.
As of Dec. 4, 2025, it has reached only 40 percent of its $374,500 goal and appeals to residents for support into 2026.
💼 Business
Horizon Bank announced Anthony Smith as President of its Private Wealth Management Division.
He brings 25+ years of experience in wealth management and fiduciary services and will lead the bank’s regional client strategy.
GreatNews.Life worked with Team Chevrolet Valparaiso to test drive the 2026 Chevy Blazer EV SS at the dealership on US-30.
Monica Krcoski gave a detailed review of the vehicle's features, offering a local glimpse before its debut.
🎓 Education
Valparaiso High School’s Drama Club concluded its secret twist play 'Trap' on Nov.
21-23, where cast members stunned audiences with red-glowing glasses. Heavy snowfall on Nov. 10 led to a snow day and finals are now set for Dec. 15-18 ahead of the district’s winter arts showcase on Dec. 8-9.
Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indiana launched a pilot Law Program for 7th grade students that gives them hands-on learning about legal roles, courtroom procedures and capstone case presentations.
Volunteer attorneys at St. Mary and St. Paul guide the lessons — inviting more community involvement this school year.
Fifth grader Nora Burk was named Valparaiso’s Rising Star for 2025 by the Mayor’s Youth Council, recognizing her community service and leadership at Central Elementary.
Mayor Jon Costas praised her volunteer work for the animal shelter, Meals on Wheels and other local projects (the program began in 2024).
🏥 Health
On Dec. 2, 2025, Northwest Health honored six physicians for clinical excellence at its Northwest Health – Porter and La Porte events.
Dr. Tareq Braik was named Physician of the Year while awards went to Drs. Joseph Venditti, Rashad Hammour, Julius Ellis, Irfan Ahmad and Smari Thordarson.
Franciscan Health’s palliative care program supports patients with chronic illness by providing home visits, symptom management plus coordinated care.
Amber Morris said the service helped her keep appointments and improve her quality of life.
🏈 Sports
Robyn Griffin, assistant director of athletics for communications at IU Northwest, has been named to the national CSC 30 Under 30 class of 2025 that recognizes rising talent in sports communications.
The recognition highlights her rapid growth from student-athlete to communications leader at her alma mater.
🎉 Valparaiso Events
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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.
🏠 Valparaiso Real Estate
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