Good morning, Mishawaka.

Blue pinwheels spinning in the community remind everyone that April is Child Abuse Prevention Month—CAPS CEO Rebecca Shetler Fast says they symbolize a promise that there are safe adults for children, and a recent Rally for Kids event brought together officials and non-profits to pledge stronger support for families facing hard times.

On March 21st and March 22nd, Indiana State Police troopers on the Bremen Post 'Wolfpack' patrol in St Joseph County looked for traffic and drug crimes on the east side of South Bend and Mishawaka—issuing 41 traffic citations, 45 warnings, making 4 OWI arrests, 18 drug arrests, and additional misdemeanor and felony arrests while a driver suspected of overdosing on fentanyl was medically cleared and charged with impaired driving.

On March 27th, the Indiana House passed a bill that eases salary increases for high-need teachers from their districts.

Some lawmakers voiced concerns about fairness as the measure, which passed the Senate in February, is likely to become law.

South Bend Community School Corporation announced plans to expand its Pre-K programs for the 2025-26 school year by doubling full-day classes from nine to 19 across several elementary schools—families were invited to a Pre-K and Kindergarten Roundup on March 27 and today, and an enrollment fair is set for May 12 at the school gym. This expansion will allow more four-year-olds, who must turn 4 by Aug. 1, to join high-quality early education programs.

St. Joseph County Surveyor Derek Dieter asked citizens to join a cleanup project at Portage Manor (10 a.m. Saturday) where gloves and trash-picking equipment will be provided, t-shirts from DLZ Construction Services given, and Chik-fil-A sandwiches served.

He will also lead a tour of the Portage Manor trails (noon to 6 p.m.).

A major reconstruction project started today at the Ireland and Ironwood intersection—workers are rebuilding the pavement, realigning the curbs, and installing new traffic signals.

Southbound traffic is reduced to one lane and the work is expected to finish by early June—drivers may face delays.

St. Joseph County health officials warned local residents to check for ticks after Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses were reported this year.

The county asked locals to complete a survey (to help track outbreaks) and use proper removal methods like tweezers to reduce risks.

Jason Onye returned to Notre Dame football after taking time off for his mental health last October.

He now competes for a starting spot and shows new strength and maturity—earning praise from coaches and teammates.

Indiana Clash Basketball Tournament

April 5-6 — Mishawaka Fieldhouse — Registration required — Compete in an exciting tournament for 11th-4th boys' teams at a premier site.

Open House at 22 Barberry Drive

2-4 p.m. — 22 Barberry Drive — Free entry — Explore this charming bi-level home in a sought-after school district with plenty of amenities.