Good morning, South Bend.

The Potawatomi Zoo celebrated the birth of a baby Sichuan takin on June 2 and zoo staff reported the little boy is still unnamed—he has already made friends with the herd.

From June 16 to 22, local communities will host events that include South Bend Pride at Potawatomi Park from noon to 6 p.m. on June 21 and an outdoor screening of Moana 2 at Gridiron Plaza on June 21—while regional festivals like the Shipshewana Antique Market and Fulton County Historical Power Show will offer family-friendly activities all week.

Between June 16 and 22, many concerts will take place in the area—featuring shows from Diana Krall and local bands in South Bend, Elkhart, Bridgman and nearby towns.

Some events are free while others require tickets—covering music styles from blues to rock.

IU South Bend's summer camp offers local high school students hands-on exposure to hidden healthcare careers such as dental hygiene, radiography, nursing, and occupational therapy — the week-long residential program also provides college prep guidance and real-life simulation cases to help students explore various career paths.

The City of South Bend announced that the final phase of construction on the Ireland and Ironwood intersection begins today—focusing on the center lanes of Ireland Road where left turns will be cut and traffic will detour.

Officials said crews will pave the last asphalt layer at night to lessen delays, with work expected to finish by early July, weather permitting.

Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita is investigating the DEI programs at Notre Dame, Butler and DePauw to see if their policies treat people differently based on race—he has sent letters to each school and may ask a court to order changes if they break civil rights laws.

The office is gathering information and will follow up by the end of the month if needed.

The northbound lanes of Michigan Street at the Chippewa Avenue roundabout closed on Monday for repairs to a storm inlet and remain closed.

Drivers are detouring west onto Barbie Street — then north onto Main Street as the lanes are expected to reopen by Friday.

Homeowners in St. Joseph County had until Monday, June 16 to file an appeal for their property tax assessment as rising taxes prompted many to seek relief—those 55 and older could also apply for a tax credit to cap increases at 2%.

The South Bend Tribune has opened voting for the 2024-25 female athlete of the year — presented by the YMCA of Greater Michiana — with 14 athletes nominated for their achievements this school year.

Voters can cast a vote once per hour per device until 11:59 p.m. Thursday, June 19.

Elkhart Jazz Festival Featuring Diana Krall

8 AM – 5 PM — The Lerner Theatre — Individual tickets from $34 — Experience a weekend of captivating jazz performances with headliner Diana Krall kicking off the festival.

Midwest Twilight Imperium Championship

9 AM – 10 PM — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel South Bend — Free parking — Compete for galactic glory in the highly anticipated second annual Twilight Imperium tournament.

Open House at Stunning Renovated American Foursquare

2-4 p.m. — 320 Howard St, South Bend, IN — Free entry — Explore a beautifully renovated home with modern amenities close to downtown and a major university.

Softball Summer Day Camp I - Play Like the Irish

9-11 a.m. — Melissa Cook Stadium — Open to all registrants — Enhance pitching and catching skills with specialized drills and mechanics training.

Bash Softball Showcase Camp

All day — South Bend, Indiana — Registration required — Aiming to connect high school athletes with college coaches through tailored showcases.

The Happy Campers Band at Bloomin' Fest

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Blooming Bus Farms — Benefit event — Enjoy live music from local bands and support a good cause with food and drink vendors.

Open House at Berkley Square Condo

2-4 p.m. — 1009 Berkley Cir, Mishawaka, IN — $145,000 — Explore a charming two-bedroom condo featuring fresh flooring and low-maintenance living.

Teen Anime Club

4:30-6 p.m. — Elkhart Public Library - Downtown — Free entry — Enjoy anime, manga, snacks, and crafts with fellow fans.

South Bend Women's Small Group Meeting

6:45-7:30 a.m. — South Bend, Indiana — Free entry — Connect with local women for discussion and community support.

Vibes Music Festival

5 PM – 2 AM — Howard Park's Event Lawn — Children 12 & under free — Celebrate culture and talent with music, food, and local vendors.