MERRILLVILLE

Cops probing burglary, vandalism at residence

Police said a homeowner reported about $10,000 worth of items were taken Monday or Tuesday from his home in the 1100 block of East 53rd Avenue, and the walls of his residence were spray painted during the incident.

Police said they are investigating the case, but haven't made any arrests.

Numerous items were taken from the home, police said, including wheels from a car parked in the garage of the residence.

Anyone with more information about the burglary can contact Merrillville police at (219) 769-3531.

DYER

Lighting ceremony is Saturday at Town Hall

The Dyer Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual holiday lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. Saturday in front of Town Hall, 1 Town Square

Carolers from Dyer Methodist Church will perform while awaiting Santa's arrival on a firetruck. The chamber will provide cookies, coffee and hot chocolate as well as complimentary photos with Santa.

CROWN POINT

Donate items Saturday to assist food pantries

Nonperishable food donations for Crown Point Cares can be brought to the Crown Point Source One Real Estate office, 855 E. North St. from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday to benefit Northwest Indiana food pantries.

Crown Point Cares is a committee of local residents/volunteers created to help assist Northwest Indiana residents by channeling food, clothes, housewares and furniture to those in need through charitable organizations. It does not accept money.

For more information, call (219) 662-5445 or visit www.crownpointcares.com

MERRILLVILLE/CROWN POINT

Libraries collect gloves, hats through Dec. 19

Lake County Public Library, in cooperation with the Visiting Nurses Association, is collecting brand new hats, gloves, mittens, and scarves for the needy. Donations may be dropped off at the Central Library, 1919 W. U.S. 30, anytime during open library hours through Dec. 19.

New mittens, gloves and hats or new, unwrapped toys for the U.S. Marine Corps Toys For Tots program also are being collected at the Crown Point Community Library, 214 S. Court St., and the Winfield branch, 10645 Randolph St. The items will be collected until Dec. 19.