Good morning, Elkhart.

Local experts warned homeowners to check heating systems to avoid fire risks—advice issued as winter approached—and Everwise and Press Ganey donated a total of $15K to the 2025 Turkeys on the Table Challenge.

Council members voted to keep Portage Manor open, Coach Bob Knight bobbleheads were unveiled, and Notre Dame will host Navy in a historic night game.

Guidance Ministries in Elkhart announced that its building needs a new boiler — officials plan to seek funding and schedule the replacement soon.

Brandon Demitruk of Everwise delivered a $5,000 check—given on November 7—to support the 2025 Turkeys on the Table challenge, which aims to provide food support for local residents.

The Salvation Army in Elkhart began its Christmas campaign to raise $500,000 for families in need amid a government shutdown that has strained local support—bell ringing will continue until December 24.

Local officials and volunteers are working to help those impacted by the shutdown while encouraging community donations.

Energy assistance programs and food relief options are now available for Michiana SNAP recipients to help low-income families cover essential bills—limited federal aid means many must use food money to pay for utilities and other costs.

Concord Community Schools students held a ceremony on November 7 — featuring speeches and performances — to honor veterans ahead of Veterans Day.

City of Goshen reported that the federally funded tree planting project is making progress after tree coverage stayed at about 20% for several years (officials noted growth has resumed) and expects to reach a 45% goal by 2045 (if current trends continue).

Brian West, a heating expert at Home Comfort Experts, said Elkhart homeowners should check their air filters and vents now to help prevent carbon monoxide leaks as cold weather nears.

He urged testing heating systems and alarms — steps that may catch problems early — to avoid potentially dangerous issues when temperatures drop.

Monthly Euchre night at Brentwood at Elkhart Independent Living

Your Local Independent Living is hosting a monthly Euchre night that is open to the public! We will have snacks, raffles, and a grand prize of a $100 gift card for the winning team! We will be hosting on the 2nd Thursday of the month starting on August 14th, beginning at 6pm! Please call 574-262-1626 for information

Mutts Gone Nuts: Unleashed

7:00 – 8:30 PM — The Lerner Theatre — $22.60 – $44.75 — Experience a comedy dog spectacular with talented rescue pups that will leave you howling with joy.

Midland Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Lerner Theatre — $42.20 – $319.50 — Experience a night of classic country music with Midland and special guests, featuring high-energy performances and unique sounds.

The Snow Queen Ballet

4:00 – 5:30 PM — The Lerner Theatre — $49.25 – $100.80 — Experience the enchanting story of Gerda's quest to save Kai from the Snow Queen's spell set to classic music.

Air Fryer Demo & Recipe Swap

12-11 a.m. — Elkhart Public Library - Downtown — Free entry — Discover the benefits of air fryers while sampling fall recipes and swapping your own delicious ideas.

Magic of Motown

7:30-9 p.m. — The Lerner Theatre — $40.15 – $104.05 — Experience a dynamic celebration of Motown classics with powerful performances from a cast of 15 vocalists.

A Classical Christmas with Girl Named Tom

4-6 p.m. — The Lerner Theatre — Free entry — Experience a festive orchestral collaboration featuring the acclaimed group Girl Named Tom and the Elkhart County Symphony.

Aurinko Ballet Presents Nutcracker

3:00-4:30 p.m. — The Lerner Theatre — $21.55 – $36.55 — Experience a modern twist on the Nutcracker featuring a heartfelt story and diverse cultural dances.

Weekly Coffee & Conversation Round Table

9-11 a.m. — Owls Club — Free entry — Enjoy a warm cup of coffee and engage in thought-provoking discussions with great company.

Ugly Sweater 5K Run/Walk and 1 Mile Stroll

8:30 AM – 2:30 PM — North Side Middle School — Registration fee required — Sport your ugliest sweater while enjoying a festive run or walk for all ages.