Good morning, Valparaiso.

Since 2014, Jon Schmaltz, partner at Burke, Costanza and Carberry (BCC), has served on the local economic development board to guide community growth and support parks and family resources.

He also advises local businesses on development matters to help strengthen our local economy.

Goodwill Industries of Michiana, Inc. is asking residents to donate gently used winter and pet clothing as cold weather makes shopping harder.

Churches, businesses and schools are invited to host drives to support local programs and help neighbors in need.

Goodwill Industries of Michiana is asking community members to donate gently used winter clothing to help neighbors and support local programs amid challenging winter weather.

Donations of pet clothing also will fund workforce development and environmental efforts in the area.

On December 18, Indiana Beverage, Molson Coors and Strack and Van Til provided holiday meals to over 500 Boys and Girls Clubs families in Northwest Indiana.

This long-standing tradition, dating from 2011, supported families in Lake and Porter counties + featured turkey, stuffing and sides.

CrossPointe Christian Church in Valparaiso is adding a third Sunday service in 2026 as minister Todd Thomson shares his commitment to strengthening community bonds and faith.

He leads a 300-person congregation and looks ahead to an uplifting year filled with gratitude (and anticipation) for future growth.

Goodwill Industries of Michiana is asking for gently used winter clothing and pet apparel to support local programs amid harsh winter conditions.

Donations will fund programs (workforce development, education, and sustainability efforts) as community needs grow.

NorthShore Health Centers hosted a fundraising gala at Duneland Fall Banquet Center to mark 30 years of service and close its 2025 campaign.

Leaders honored employees, supporters, and sponsors with awards to recognize their role in expanding affordable care.

Yesterday, the Crossroads Chamber held its Annual Meeting & Installation Awards at Innsbrook Country Club where members enjoyed festive decor, photos with Santa, gift baskets, and a leadership handover to Katie Holderby.

Local storeowners can learn practical, low-cost ways to keep their space safe by assessing risks, choosing smart insurance, and adding simple security fixes like LED motion sensors and stronger locks (which also improve customer trust).

Local business owners can join the Urban League of Northwest Indiana's Entrepreneurship Program (offering workshops, funding assistance, marketing strategies, legal support and mentorship) for startups and established businesses across Lake, Porter, and La Porte counties.

The 2026 cohort will roll out early next year and interested applicants may call for details.

For Pete's Sake, a trio band offering instrumentals and vocals, will perform a concert (Jan.

4, 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.) at 430 E US Highway 6 in Valparaiso. The band brings its local flavor to the stage for an engaging afternoon.

MegaBeatles will perform Beatles classics by the Chris and Lou Band and Crawpuppies at Memorial Opera House on Jan.

24 from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. The two-hour show will raise funds with a winter twist on the Summer of Love.

Valpo.Life released its top 10 photo galleries for 2025, featuring snapshots of community events like the Popcorn Parade on Sept.

6 and local high school graduations that captured everyday moments around town—each gallery tells a story of local celebration.

Indiana's SNAP program will ban soft drinks & candy starting tomorrow under new state waivers affecting 1.4 million recipients.

The restrictions are set to run for two years with an option to extend.

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.

Bad Momz of Comedy

7-10 p.m. — Memorial Opera House — Tickets required — Enjoy a night of laughter with the amazing Bad Momz of Comedy as seen on the Kelly Clarkson Show.

Vision Book Workshop

5:30 p.m. — Cooks Corners School — Free entry — Create a vision for your life through collaging images and affirmations.

Art: Paint and Pour

5-7 p.m. — Valparaiso Public Library — Registration required — Create a funky painting while enjoying your favorite beverage in a relaxed atmosphere.