Good morning, South Bend.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana in Kosciusko County launched its volunteer recruitment campaign Thursday—seeking 500 new mentors for one-on-one guidance with local children.

The organization has supported the community for over 53 years.

A new 1.5-mile trail now connects downtown South Bend with the Notre Dame campus after a ribbon cutting on Thursday—officials say it will ease traffic on game days.

The project costs up to $11 million and is funded by the city, the Hotel-Motel Tax Board and the University—providing a boost for the local economy.

On March 16th, officers responded to a domestic disturbance call in the 10000 block of Beatrice Street in Osceola — a house fire was determined to be arson and 33-year-old Heather Burns was arrested and charged with Felony Arson, Felony Theft, and Misdemeanor Theft.

On April 24, about 1,200 eighth and ninth graders from South Bend Community School Corp attended the second annual GEAR UP IGNITE Career Expo at the St. Joseph County 4-H Fairgrounds where vendors presented career options in trades, law, health care and more — school officials said the event helped students plan high school courses and future paths in high-demand fields.

Notre Dame tight ends Justin Fisher and Eli Reardon visited Mishawaka High School Thursday morning to give a motivational talk to students in the 21st Century Scholars and Early College programs+ they signed autographs and took pictures while urging students to choose the hard path in life.

Indiana lawmakers sent Senate Bill 289 (which limits DEI efforts and allows lawsuits over alleged violations) to Gov Mike Braun after House and Senate votes on April 24, and he is expected to sign the bill.

Lawmakers narrowly sent a partisan school board bill to Governor Braun after a 26 to 24 Senate vote—sparking debate over its effect on school board elections.

They also removed a $7.4 million funding line for Indiana Public Broadcasting from the state budget—citing falling revenues and partisan concerns.

Poker Run

During this fundraiser, participants collect a card at five different locations in downtown South Bend to try to get the best hand. You can buy $10, $25, or $50 hands with proceeds benefiting local refugees.

2025 Autocross (Solo) Event #1

Full day — Tire Rack Technology Center — $37.50 for SCCA members, $50 for non-members — Experience exciting autocross challenges with courses designed for all skill levels.

Manuscripts in May – Free Book Signing Event

6-8 p.m. — Morris Performing Arts Center — Free entry — Local authors discuss their works and sign books at this engaging event.

Run Happy 50K Event

8 AM - 4 PM — Potato Creek State Park — Registration required — Enjoy a fun and relaxed running experience through beautiful nature trails.

Camerata Singers Concert

4-5:30 p.m. — Wellfield Botanic Gardens — $20 Adult, $8 Child — Experience a unique choral concert exploring the beauty and struggle of Earth.

South Bend Women's Small Group Meeting

6:45-7:30 a.m. — South Bend, Indiana — Free entry — Engage in weekly discussions and foster community connections among local women.

Cirque Italia - Water Circus

7:30-9 p.m. — University Park Mall — Ticket prices vary — Experience an unforgettable show featuring a stunning aquatic stage and breathtaking performances.

PetPalooza

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Century Center — Vendor fees apply — Celebrate all things furry, feathered, and scaly at this vibrant pet gathering.

Great Boss Workshop

8 AM - 3 PM — Four Winds Field — Cost varies — Unlock your leadership potential and develop higher-performing teams with expert guidance.

Kevin James: Stand-Up Comedy

7:30-9 p.m. — Morris Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of laughs with comedian Kevin James, known for his engaging stand-up and hit sitcoms.