Good morning, Mishawaka.

The Better Business Bureau in Northern Indiana is urging the community to support local shops and restaurants by reading reviews, following businesses on social media, and inviting friends to shop small — a plan to help local owners grow their businesses.

The advice targets both retail stores and local eateries, aiming to strengthen neighborhood ties.

Ace Hardware will give away one million free American flags on Saturday, May 24 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at participating stores in honor of Memorial Day—while the retailer also offers deals on grills, power tools and outdoor equipment all weekend.

At Saint Mary's College, 359 students walked the stage in the 178th commencement today—cheered on by family and friends—while Holy Cross College held its 58th ceremony this afternoon with hundreds of graduates, including many first-generation, taking the next step toward the workforce. The events mark a significant milestone for students across Michiana as they celebrate their achievements and prepare for new beginnings.

Today, more than 100 residents met at the Howard Park Event Center as County Assessor Michael Castellon and Portage Township Trustee Jason Critchlow explained why homeowners in St. Joseph County are facing higher property assessments due to rising costs, the pandemic, and increased construction costs—residents learned how to appeal their assessments and ask questions. The next meeting is scheduled for June 14th at the New Carlisle Public Library from 2 p.m. — 4 p.m. with additional sessions planned for September and December.

The bench trial in the South Bend Police tapes case—where a judge will decide if the recordings were legal—has been postponed to a two-day trial on December 9 and 10 at 8:30 a.m. at the Mishawaka courthouse; a pre-trial hearing is set for November 7 at 8:00 a.m.

Fallen officers from South Bend Police and St. Joseph County Police were honored at a special ceremony on Friday—FOP Lodges 36 and 155 joined to remember officers killed in the line of duty—marking the conclusion of National Police Week.

Penn High’s boys volleyball team, led by senior Bryan Forbes, won the IHSAA sectional title Saturday against Saint Joseph — the team will play in the Valparaiso Regional on May 24.

Mishawaka Wednesday Singo Bingo

6-7 p.m. — Sun King Mishawaka — Free to play — Compete in exciting rounds of Singo Bingo for a chance to win fun prizes like gift cards.