The Tuesday hike report by Jake Gerlach: Five hikers showed up for our hike on this December evening. The normal hike at this time of year with the early sunset is to go around Lake LaGrange. I set off at a rather brisk pace and everyone else stayed with me, so it was a quick one-hour walk.

Celebrate the new year in style. Here’s a sampling of parties taking place Sunday, Dec. 31, around Janesville.

JANESVILLE — The holiday season shines bright right into January at several area light displays. Gather the family for a festive outing that will brighten up any long winter’s evening. 

The Tuesday hike report by Jake Gerlach: On a cold December evening four veteran hikers showed up for our hike. As usual on these days of early sunsets, we just went around Lake LaGrange. 

ROCKFORD — Each year on the Friday before Christmas Eve, luminary musicians from around the Midwest converge on JustGoods at 201 Seventh St. in Rockford, where they donate their talent for charity. Doors will open at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 22, and music will be featured from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.