Good morning, Mishawaka.

The CASA Program in St. Joseph County is launching its 2026 Books and Basics Drive to give foster children books, school supplies, and hygiene items.

The drive runs July 1–Aug. 15 and will help kids get ready for school.

Patrick Industries and LCI Industries announced a merger that will close in 2027.

Patrick CEO Andy Nemeth will lead the new company with Patrick shareholders set to own about 52% while headquarters remain in Elkhart.

Patrick Industries and Lippert Components are planning to merge — pending shareholder approval next year.

The combined company expects to generate over $8 billion in revenue, and its impact on local Elkhart jobs remains uncertain.

Mike Mrozinski, a local resident, received a new American flag from WNDU to replace his worn-out one before the country’s 250th celebration + he proudly wears flag-themed clothing to honor his family’s military legacy.

Wawasee Community Schools Director of Exceptional Learners Shelly Wilfong had her article recognized nationally + her piece urging administrators to teach again celebrated her notable two‐week classroom stint + the honor marks her first feature in School Administrator magazine.

Organizers from the Indiana Organic Network and Purdue Extension will host the Northern Indiana Organic Field Day on Wednesday, Aug.

5 at IMS Dairy near Nappanee from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Participants will learn organic techniques for crop management plus cow/calf health in a working dairy setting.

The next phase of Twelfth Street reconstruction will add traffic restrictions starting Monday, Jul.

6—eastbound lanes along E. Twelfth Street between Laurel and Campbell Streets will be closed while westbound lanes remain open.

On Wednesday, local families brought their children to the splash pads in Mishawaka and South Bend during a heat wave, while Elkhart's McNaughton Spray Park remained closed (a broken part was on back order).

AIA Northern Indiana July Program

11:30 a.m. — Chicory Cafe Mishawaka — Complimentary lunch — Explore the benefits of cast stone in architectural design at this informative program.

Jeff Dunham Live Comedy Show

7-10 p.m. — Morris Performing Arts Center — Tickets from $83 — Experience a night of laughter with the comedic genius Jeff Dunham and his beloved puppets.

Bluey's Big Play

6-9 p.m. — Morris Performing Arts Center — Ticket purchase required — Experience Bluey's beloved adventures come to life in an enchanting theatrical show for kids.