Good morning, South Bend.

Goodwill in South Bend asks for gently used winter clothing to help men, women and children keep warm as winter takes hold.

Donated coats, sweaters, boots, hats and gloves plus pet clothing support local programs.

South Bend-area holiday events run Dec.

22-28, featuring light displays in Mishawaka, free visits with Santa on South Michigan Street, festive markets in Michigan City, and seasonal fun runs in Goshen with some events noting modest fees or donation requests.

The Powerball jackpot climbs to $1.7 billion after Monday's drawing produced no full winner.

Indiana and Michigan prize winners received $50,000 each and the next drawing is set for Wednesday.

South Bend hosts holiday concerts and New Year's Eve celebrations from Dec.

22 until Dec. 31, with events at venues such as The Acorn, Four Winds, and the Elks Lodge (including tribute bands, caroling, and themed parties). Ticket prices vary from $28.52 to over $400.

The main library will be partly closed from January 5 to January 9 for extensive elevator repairs.

Key services such as the physical collection, children's and teens areas, study rooms, computer lab, and local & family history section will not be available during this time.

Health officials urge South Bend residents to get the updated COVID booster to protect against severe illness and long COVID.

Dr. Richard Feldman (a former resident) noted only 23% of adults received last year’s booster and updated vaccines are now available to all.

A new influenza strain dubbed the super flu is expected to heighten risks during holiday travel — experts say it may evade some vaccine protection.

Local doctors urge residents to wash their hands and get flu shots as the season is projected to continue until February.

Notre Dame football announced a home-and-home series with BYU that has the Cougars set to face the team in Provo in 2026 and visit South Bend in 2027 — canceling the traditional USC rivalry for the next two seasons.

Malaya Cowles is emerging as a key player for Notre Dame women's basketball after being elevated to starter following a teammate's injury.

She draws strength from memories of her late father (who coached her free throws) and has impressed since her first start on Dec. 14.

USA Today Network Indiana released the Dec.

22 high school boys basketball poll showing a change at the top as Barr-Reeve (8 votes) edged last week's leader Kouts (6 votes) by three points for Class 1A while Fishers, Ind. Cathedral and Parke Heritage led their divisions ahead of holiday tournaments.

New Years Eve Dance Party featuring Nawty

9:00-10:30 p.m. — Four Winds Casino South Bend — Ticket pricing varies — Celebrate the upcoming year with a lively dance performance by Nawty.

Plant Sale & Swap at Potawatomi Conservatories

12:00-2:00 p.m. — Potawatomi Conservatories — $5 Adults | $3 Kids | Free for Members — Explore a variety of plants and connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts.

Adult & Youth Social Bowling Night

5-7 p.m. — Strikes & Spares Entertainment Center — $25 — Enjoy friendly competition and perfect your bowling skills with friends at this community event.