Good morning, South Bend.

Local groups are serving community meals this week with offerings like Burger Night, fish fry, pancake breakfast and a Taste of Unity fundraiser hosted in Galien, Mishawaka, South Bend and St. Joseph.

Each event has its own times, menus and costs — details vary by venue and include dine-in and carryout options.

The 27th annual Michiana Chili Cookoff took place at Ironworks Plaza in Mishawaka and drew one of its largest crowds while raising about $3,000 to $4,000 for the Food Bank of Northern Indiana.

Local chefs, including Bela Szalay—a 15-year participant—competed as teams prepared over 10 gallons of chili and Legends by Notre Dame was named best chili.

Google's Halloween search data shows that people in South Bend will dress as Rumi from Netflix’s animated film KPop Demon Hunters, with this costume leading the trend – a choice tied to the film's huge streaming numbers.

Other favorites in town include Cruella De Vil, Adam Sandler, Chucky and Corpse Bride.

South Bend and nearby communities will host a series of fall events (including concerts, theater productions, museum exhibits and holiday bazaars) from Oct.

27 to Nov. 2. Some events will require pre-orders or tickets while others offer free entry.

The Tribune announced nominees for Student of the Week from local high schools, and readers can vote until noon on Oct.

30. A story on the winner and nominees will appear online Friday—also in Monday's print edition.

The South Shore Line announced that active duty military personnel and veterans will ride free on all trains from November 7 through November 11—no identification is needed.

Up to three children aged 13 and under will ride free with each service member on off-peak weekday and weekend trains.

Sweet Emily, a 6-year-old stray with soft fur who loves chasing tennis balls and cuddling, has been at the shelter for over two weeks and is ready for a forever home—she is spayed, up to date on vaccinations, and good with kids.

Interested adopters can apply through the South Bend Animal Resource Center.

Senior power forward Kebba Njie from Centerville will start for Notre Dame this season—he averaged 6.1 points and 5.9 rebounds last season and is praised for his defense.

Coach Micah Shrewsberry said Njie will work on his offense before the season opener on November 3 at Purcell Pavilion.

No. 12 Notre Dame (5-2) will face Boston College (1-7) on Saturday, November 1 at 7:30 p.m. at Alumni Stadium in Chestnut Hill.

The game will air on ESPN, ESPN+ and local radio.

The South Bend Tribune has opened unlimited voting for Week 10 Football Player of the Week — readers may cast their vote until Thursday, October 30 at 11:59 p.m.

Notre Dame coach Micah Shrewsberry said a loss to DePaul in October ended a 46-game exhibition win streak but provided a chance to learn from tough competition.

He said he is open to scheduling more challenging games, possibly against Purdue, as the team prepares for the regular season.

LSU informed coach Brian Kelly of plans to dismiss him—after a 49-25 loss to Texas A&M and Sunday meetings—and the school will notify the team at 8 p.m. Central.

MHSAA announced the football state tournament pairings that include four South Bend area teams.

Niles will host Zeeland West on Oct 31, Edwardsburg will host Vicksburg, Buchanan is set to face Napoleon, and Dowagiac will travel to Berrien Springs — the winners will advance to district championship games on Nov 7.

St. Joseph County Health Fair

4-7 p.m. — Century Center — Free entry — Access free health screenings, vaccines, and community resources with special giveaways for the first attendees.

Foot Chase 5k/10k

8:30 AM – 12:30 PM — Central Park — Registration required — Enjoy a family-friendly run along the scenic Riverwalk paths of Mishawaka’s Parks.

South Bend Indoor Fantasy Faire

11 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Morris Performing Arts Center — $25+ — Immerse yourself in a magical celebration featuring enchanting merchants, authors, and character meet-and-greets.

The Traveling Salvation Show

5:00–8:30 p.m. — Morris Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience Neil Diamond's greatest hits in a high-energy tribute show featuring stunning visuals and captivating performances.

Swan Lake Performance

7-8:30 p.m. — Morris Performing Arts Center — Family-friendly event — Experience Tchaikovsky's classic ballet with a talented international cast and stunning scenery.

St. Joe Valley Happy Trail Run

8:15 AM – 12:30 PM — St. Patrick's County Park — Proceeds go to a local ministry — Experience the beautiful trails with race options from a mile to a half marathon.

Women Entrepreneur Summit 2025

9 AM – 4 PM — Rio Park Events — $99 VIP, $65 Late Registration — Engage with inspiring women entrepreneurs and gain valuable business insights.

Thanksgiving Cheerleading Throwdown

Nov 22-23 — Century Center — In Person — A competitive cheerleading event featuring exciting exhibitions and championship bids.

Mojo Brookzz Comedy Show

7:30-9 p.m. — Morris Performing Arts Center — Tickets available — Experience the comedic brilliance of Dyon "Mojo" Brooks, a rising star in the comedy scene.