Good morning, Valparaiso.

The Chicago Bears are expanding their stadium site search to include Northwest Indiana after Illinois state leaders sidelined the 2026 project.

Team President Kevin Warren detailed the plan in an open letter — the team will evaluate alternatives beyond Arlington Park.

Valpo.Life recapped the top business stories of 2025, highlighting longtime family-owned service at Grieger’s Motor Sales, dedicated care from Vale Park Animal Hospital, and initiatives such as BucherTech’s IT Grant.

The list shows strong local commitment + growing opportunities in Northern Indiana.

The Crossroads Chamber celebrated its Annual Holiday Board Installation Lunch at Innsbrook Country Club, where members enjoyed festive drinks, Santa photos and awards.

John Jordan handed over leadership to Katie Holderby, who brings two decades of local experience to strengthen the community.

Fifteen emergency medical technicians graduated today after completing a joint program by MAAC Foundation and Northwest Health in Valpo, and they are now ready to assist local emergency services.

U.S. Senators from Indiana and Illinois introduced bipartisan legislation to designate the Calumet Region as a National Heritage Area covering Lake, Porter and LaPorte counties as well as Will and Cook counties — a move aimed at preserving the area’s industrial legacy, natural beauty and cultural resources.

Today, U.S. News and World Report named nursing homes in Valparaiso and Munster among the best in the country for their quality care+ service, reflecting the local commitment to high health standards.

The Chicago Bears are exploring a new stadium site in Northwest Indiana after support in Arlington Heights fell short.

Indiana Rep. Earl Harris highlights potential sites in Hammond and Gary to boost local jobs and infrastructure — Governor Mike Braun and other officials support the move.

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.

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.