Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 1st of January.
Good morning, Fort Wayne.
💼 Business
Kroger now offers a 20% discount on fruits and vegetables for customers on government assistance through its Verified Savings program until Jan.
31 - customers can enroll online using SheerID to also get half-off Boost by Kroger Plus memberships.
🎭 Culture
Allen County Public Library will host its annual Countdown to Noon celebration plus engaging activities for all ages.
The event takes place at the library and continues a tradition that enriches the local community.
🏛️ Government
Governor Mike Braun signed an executive order reinstating the State Workforce Development Board to strengthen strategies that create job opportunities and raise wages for local workers.
The board will coordinate efforts among employers, education providers and state agencies (aligning policies with the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act).
Lawmakers are considering two proposals for expanding gambling: allowing the Hoosier Lottery to sell tickets online and issuing a casino license for the Fort Wayne-area project.
If approved, lottery sales will start in summer 2027 while casino discussions will continue in early January.
Fort Wayne officials plan to start construction on the Vann Family Crossing, a pedestrian bridge on Pufferbelly Trail over Coliseum Boulevard near Mission BBQ and Bob Thomas Ford, early this year.
The project earned a $5M donation from Jim Vann and the Vann Family, with bidding to start (pending permits).
On Dec. 29, 2025, fire chiefs partnered with Heartland Ambulance Service to handle emergency medical calls from unincorporated Allen County, replacing TRAA's dispatch service.
Officials said the new system meets national standards with no added cost to taxpayers (ensuring uninterrupted care).
📰 Lifestyle
75-year-old Steve Weaver from Fort Wayne has completed the 8-mile Hell’s Point Challenge 130 times at Pokagon State Park.
He said the routine offers good exercise & a chance to build new friendships along the trail.
🎉 Fort Wayne Events
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Make 2026 the greatest year of your life
On January 10, 2026, Timothy will be leading a 3 hour Heroic workshop where you will join Heroes in your local community for a powerful, in-person Heroic Workshop experience designed to help you master your Energy, Work, and Love — and activate your best self. You’ll leave with clarity, a protocol, and the momentum to make 2026 your greatest year ever.
2026 Winter Artistic Extravaganza
Unity Performing Arts Foundation will showcase all its artistic programs with performances and testimonials from youth ages 7 to 19, highlighting the impact of our leadership and arts training. Featured performances include the three-time World Champion Voices of Unity Youth Choir along with creative writing, public speaking, drama, dance, and piano programs led by our expert directors. This is your chance to see the excellence UNITY brings to young people and to learn how your child can become our next member. Visit UPAF.com or call 260-481-6719; admission is available exclusively through Eventbrite.
2026 Winter Artistic Extravaganza
Unity Performing Arts Foundation will showcase all its artistic programs with performances and testimonials from youth ages 7 to 19, highlighting the impact of our leadership and arts training. Featured performances include the three-time World Champion Voices of Unity Youth Choir along with creative writing, public speaking, drama, dance, and piano programs led by our expert directors. This is your chance to see the excellence UNITY brings to young people and to learn how your child can become our next member. Visit UPAF.com or call 260-481-6719; admission is available exclusively through Eventbrite.
Fort Wayne Philharmonic - American Beauty
7:30-9:30 p.m. — PFW Music Center — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate America's 250th birthday with American classical music featuring renowned violinist Holly Mulcahy.
Comedy and Magic Night with Taylor Hughes & Nick Paul
4-6 p.m. — Summit City Comedy Club — Tickets required — Enjoy an unforgettable blend of comedy, magic, and storytelling from world-class performers.
Plates and Mates Dinner Series
6-7:30 p.m. — DAE GEE KOREAN BBQ — $10 reservation — Enjoy a curated dinner with like-minded locals, fantastic food, and great conversations.
Nouvelle Annee Celebration
10 AM – 5 PM — Historic Old Fort — Free entry — Celebrate the New Year at a French colonial outpost with cultural insights and interactive experiences.
Jack Shaw Live Comedy Show
7-10 p.m. — Summit City Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of laughs with Los Angeles-based comedian Jack Shaw.
Pablo Francisco Live Comedy Show
7-9 p.m. — Summit City Comedy Club — Tickets required — Enjoy a night of laughs with comedy legend Pablo Francisco, known for his high-energy performances and quick wit.
Recycled Creations: Art for Grades K–3
Over five Saturdays — Purdue University Fort Wayne — Cost not specified — Connect and collaborate with young artists using recycled materials.
🏠 Fort Wayne Real Estate
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💼 Fort Wayne Job Board
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📣 Fort Wayne Announcements
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