Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 8th of January.
Good morning, Fort Wayne.
Indiana agriculture officials and the Northeast Indiana Local Food Network will host a listening session at Ivy Tech on Jan.
27 to gather feedback from local food producers and community advocates on market challenges under the initiative to boost food access.
Fort Wayne Animal Care and Control announced a $10,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne to support its Pet Retention Program, which will help pet owners cover expenses like vaccines, microchips, and spay/neuter services.
The program serves pet owners facing financial hardship in Allen County.
The Allen County Public Library unveiled the new free exhibit (The Lincolns at Home) in the Rolland Center, where visitors can explore over 600 historic photos that detail President Lincoln’s family life from Springfield to Washington, D.C.
It is open during regular Main Library hours through the end of 2026.
Economic development officials said Allen County grew strongly in 2025 as 17 projects brought over $120 million in investment, 550 new job commitments and almost $44 million in annual payroll — helping raise local wages and push population growth above state and national trends.
Allen County Council approved a tax break for BF Goodrich’s plant north of Woodburn on Wednesday—allowing it to save about $5.2 million while investing $157 million in new equipment to retain 1,522 jobs over the next 10 years.
Indiana Department of Education reported a record 91.83 percent graduation rate for high school seniors in 2025, up 1.6 percent from 2024.
Governor Mike Braun credited the boost to the hard work of students, families, and educators — a significant rise from 86.65 percent in 2022.
Southwest Allen County Schools agreed Tuesday to a revised $1.92 million deal for a 58-acre site along Noyer Road after due diligence saved $400,000+ closing is set by Feb.
15 to support future expansion, including a new CTE center.
Lutheran Social Services of Indiana received a $5,000 grant from the St. Joseph Community Health Foundation to support its Education Creates Hope and Opportunity program, which helps teen parents learn skills to boost their health and support their children.
Tuesday night the SACS board approved a memorandum of understanding with the Allen County Public Library to explore relocating the Aboite Library to the Summit Middle School campus.
The move is part of a countywide library modernization effort and remains under discussion.
Fort Wayne will host Division III men’s basketball quarterfinal and semifinal rounds on March 19 and 21 at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum.
Tickets go on sale Friday, Jan. 9 (10:00 a.m.) with promotional pricing of $25 for adults and $15 for child and senior fares.
Fort Wayne’s hockey community gathered at PSM Icehouse on Wednesday to honor Carroll High captain Adlee Scheerer, who died earlier this week.
Service details for visitation and funeral are posted online (community members recalled his state championship goal and team leadership).
The Fort Wayne Komets host themed home games this weekend with Deaf Awareness Night on Friday at 7:35 p.m. against the Cincinnati Cyclones and Report Card Night on Sunday at 5:05 p.m. against the Toledo Walleye.
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.
Ft. Wayne RV & Camping Show
11 AM – 2 PM — Allen County War Memorial Coliseum — Cost details unavailable — Discover the latest in RVs and camping gear for your next adventure.
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