Good morning, Valparaiso.

Strack & Van Til will donate Hormel hams to needy families today in Merrillville.

The event aims to help community members facing hardship.

CoAction has launched its 2025 year-end giving campaign 'Illuminate' to help over 30,000 neighbors secure housing, food, and energy assistance.

The campaign runs through Dec. 31 and encourages local donors to support 30 programs (such as meal service and heating assistance).

Chris Mahlmann, founder of GreatNews.Life, delivered his opening remarks for the Good Life Awards 2025 at 951 West St — his recorded speech highlights the event's celebration of local spirit.

The video was uploaded on Monday, Dec. 15.

Tourism in Northwest Indiana slowed this winter, but the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority (SSCV Authority) is planning Christmas celebrations and sports tournaments later this month to attract visitors.

The MAAC Foundation celebrated the graduation of 41 Volunteer Fire Academy students on Thursday, Dec.

11 at Wheeler High School as the rigorous eleven-week program trained recruits in fire suppression, hazmat operations and technical rescue.

BP Whiting awarded Ivy Tech a $30,000 grant to help cover tuition, books and other costs for manufacturing, engineering and applied sciences students — an effort to bolster local technical education.

Recycling and Waste Reduction District will host its free Fix-It Fair on Saturday, Jan.

17 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the library on Jefferson Street (Valparaiso Branch) where volunteers will repair clothing, electronics and small appliances; attendees must register online in advance.

McAfee Animal Hospital on Dec.

5 confirmed that local dog Faux Pas, treated for splenic cancer through surgery and natural remedies, showed strong recovery as her family continues regular health checkups + ongoing care after the loss of her companion, Brigitta. The miracle dog now enjoys daycare and community outings.

Judy Dunlap praised Dr. Qualls and the Methodist Hospitals Cancer Center team for their caring support during her cancer treatment that began Sept.

24, 2024, and included a lumpectomy on Oct. 24 and daily radiation until March; she now recommends Dr. Qualls for her thorough care.

The Harlem Globetrotters will perform at the Athletics-Recreation Center on Tuesday, Jan.

20 at 7 p.m. as part of their 100-Year Tour, where fans will see interactive basketball displays and special pre-game events. Tickets are on sale now.

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.