Good morning, Valparaiso.

Goodwill Industries of Michiana is asking Valparaiso residents to donate winter clothes during the holiday season to help support neighbors in need and fund local programs.

Donations are tax-deductible and help pay for job training, education and sustainability projects *every clothing item makes a difference*.

Lake Central High School hosted its final holiday concert on December 11 with seniors performing, and today art students show work at the Regional Student Showcase at Promise You Art House in Highland.

Art teacher Sara Sjoquist launched a tree decoration fundraiser — funds will support a local after-school charity.

The West Porter Fire District and Fire Force reached a $289K deal to save the ambulance service; the district will use funds that will not be replenished by next December — while Porter County Commissioners work on a long-term fix.

On Wednesday, Dec. 10, The Courtyard at The Brooks held a grand opening for its sales and model office to showcase a new 55+ community in Vale Park.

Attendees toured homes with features that require little upkeep, including a pool, outdoor trails, and pickleball courts.

A 2025 sports roundup on Valpo.Life showed local athletic programs thriving.

Wheeler High School named Rylee Kruck as athletic director and girls’ wrestling held its first IHSAA state finals at Corteva Coliseum, while VHS baseball celebrated its first state championship on June 25 — reflecting robust local sports success.

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.