Good morning, Mishawaka.

Families, donors and city leaders broke ground on September 24 at Normain Heights for Mishawaka’s new Miracle League Park—an accessible recreation area featuring a baseball field, inclusive playground, splash pad, softball field, pavilions, sensory areas and accessible bathrooms for people with disabilities. The project took 14 years to plan and was inspired by campaign chairman Richard Pfeil’s experience with his own children.

Meals with Muffet is hosting a food drive on Saturday—if you cannot donate on that day, all donations made this week will count in support of the effort.

Brightspeed is working to restore phone and internet service for customers in North Liberty and Walkerton after reports of outages lasting over a month—technicians are reassigning to repair outdated copper lines while the company builds its fiber broadband network.

The company has not provided a restoration time.

The University of Notre Dame has formed a special committee to oversee an external investigation into alleged sexual misconduct by former rector Rev.

Thomas King at Zahm Hall — the probe, led by Helen Cantwell of Debevoise & Plimpton LLP, will share its key findings with the community.

The preview for the Four Flags Area Apple Festival explains that local organizers plan apple contests, vendor stalls, and live music for families and that officials will update the schedule as the event approaches—ensuring community members have current details.

Warehouse Comics Cards & Gaming in St. Andrews Plaza celebrates Local Comic Shop Day this Saturday by offering comic books, games and sports cards to local fans—founding co-owner Len Knappenberger said the store welcomes collectors and enthusiasts.

Schmucker Middle School students in Mishawaka broadcast school announcements on Sept.

25, sharing updates with their peers.

At Schmucker Middle School, 7th and 8th graders broadcast their morning announcements using cameras, lights, and a teleprompter — they also talked with a visiting news crew about their interest in journalism.

Dr. Taylor Nicoletti talked about youth mental health today during the Mental Health Thursdays segment on WNDU 16 News Now at 4 p.m. She said families can help children by watching for problems at home and at school—her advice comes from her work with kids in tough situations.

Since the summer solstice on June 20, Michiana has lost about three hours of daylight with the sun now rising at 7:35 a.m. and setting at 7:36 p.m.—a loss that Dr. Desriee Davis explained can disrupt natural rhythms and lead to seasonal affective disorder as residents may need treatment until daylight increases after winter. The steady reduction began after the Autumnal equinox and will continue until the first day of winter.

Medical experts advise residents to prepare for cold, flu, and COVID season by getting vaccinated, washing hands frequently, and sanitizing work areas—Lizzie Russell from St. Joseph Health Systems adds that higher risk individuals should consider the COVID shot and see a doctor if symptoms worsen.

Developers announced that more than a dozen housing projects worth nearly $2 billion will soon begin in St. Joseph County—adding new homes for residents in South Bend and Mishawaka.

The projects are set to boost local housing options as they roll out in the area.

Race to Save Lives - Walk for Hope

2-4 p.m. — Howard Park — Registration required — Join the community for a walk aiming to raise awareness for suicide prevention.

Beatles vs Stones Tribute Show

7-8:30 p.m. — Morris Performing Arts Center — Tickets range — Experience a thrilling rock mash-up duel between the legendary Beatles and Rolling Stones tribute bands.

Fall Frolic 5K/2K Race

12-11 a.m. — Montessori Academy Edison Lakes — Various registration fees apply — Celebrate community spirit with a heartwarming race that supports local early childhood education.

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban - In Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Morris Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of Harry Potter with the South Bend Symphony Orchestra performing the score live alongside the film.