Good morning, South Bend.

South Bend will host several community meal events this week; the Taco & Tequila Trail is set for April 30th from 5 to 9 p.m. in downtown restaurants and a Fish Fry is planned for May 2nd at Knights of Columbus—other events include a Polish Dinner Buffet, breakfast specials, and additional local dining options.

Deputies responded to a single-vehicle crash at the Oak Grove Rd. and M 60 intersection just after 2 p.m. on Sunday in Cass County, Mich where 25-year-old Ariana Watkins lost control of her vehicle and a juvenile passenger was taken to South Bend Memorial Hospital for injuries as investigators suspect alcohol played a role.

South Bend native Deacon Nicholas Monnin, studying in Rome, recalled meeting Pope Francis and feeling his gentle handshake during the funeral last Saturday, an encounter that influenced his faith.

Monnin said his memory of that steady presence shapes his time in Rome (and he plans to go to St. Peter Square when the Cardinals announce the next pope) as he believes the Pontiff's death coinciding with Christ’s resurrection keeps the legacy alive.

The Area Plan Commission has named Shawn Klein as its new executive director—he replaces Abby Wiles who left for a job as assistant director of neighborhoods in South Bend.

Klein had worked as a planner and interim executive director, and the commission voted unanimously on April 15.

On Sunday afternoon, Michiana Veg Fest took place at Gillespie Conference Center where about 3,000 visitors learned about vegan and plant-based lifestyles through nationally recognized speakers and cooking demos — organizers said the event promoted healthy eating, animal protection and environmental sustainability — and offered a chance for community connection.

Former Notre Dame football defensive tackle Howard Cross III became an NFL rookie by signing with the Cincinnati Bengals as an undrafted free agent after the 2025 NFL Draft—he is known for his quick hands and strength despite past injuries.

South Bend sports fans can vote for the YMCA South Bend Tribune Athlete of the Week for April 21–27 as six local athletes vie for the honor—voting allows one vote per hour per device and closes at 11:59 p.m. Thursday, May 1.

The Notre Dame Insider Pod of Gold podcast will tape on April 29 to review spring practice and preview the upcoming regular season (listeners are invited to leave their questions and comments about the Irish).

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.

4th Annual Oaklawn's Got Talent

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Lerner Theatre — Ticket information available online — A lively evening showcasing local talent for a great cause supporting mental health and addiction treatment.

Annual Senior Fair

10 AM – 12 PM — South Bend Tech Resource Center — Free entry — Enjoy food, fun, and activities suitable for seniors and all ages.