Good morning, Mishawaka.

American Legion Bendix Aviation Post 284 donated $4,116 to the Saint Joseph County Police Department K9 Unit to buy lightweight protective body armor for three officers—improving safety for the dogs during their duties.

Frontline providers at a REAL Enrichment Center event on Thursday received advice from experts such as professor Judy Fox and Portage Township Trustee Jason Critchlow on protecting renters in Indiana where tenants cannot withhold rent for unsafe housing — they urged making records of communications and encouraged using local safety programs. Portage Township will host an eviction sealing workshop on October 15 to help those with past evictions secure their records.

Habitat for Humanity of St. Joseph County opened a new training center and office in Mishawaka as a ribbon-cutting ceremony took place Thursday afternoon on McKinley Highway.

The new center will serve as a community hub & help double the number of families served with affordable housing and training.

The Food Bank of Northern Indiana is preparing to help families if the government shutdown affects food supplies—CEO Marijo Martinec explained that those needing assistance can learn about support options at the bank.

The organization is monitoring the situation closely as potential disruptions could increase demand for relief.

Amy Cressy, chief deputy prosecutor for St. Joseph County, said human trafficking in Michiana exploits vulnerable people—those who defer simple questions, avoid eye contact, show injuries, or have controlled housing—and urged locals to call 911 if something seems off.

Thousands of new jobs are expected in our area in the next few years as companies including Amazon and General Motors invest tens of billions in data centers and an electric vehicle battery plant.

Local experts (such as Jeff Rea from the South Bend Regional Chamber) say the region may face a worker shortage if nearly 5,000 jobs come online at once.

St. Joseph County emergency management officials are nearly done updating the outdoor warning siren system—67 existing sirens are being upgraded while five new ones are added, and three more will be placed near the Amazon and GM battery plant sites using American Rescue Plan funds and property tax money. Next year they will activate a new siren sound to alert residents of non-weather emergencies such as terrorism, mass shootings, or hazardous material disasters.

Today, our community spotlights depression screening as part of National Depression and Health Screening Month—offering resources and information on recognizing signs to treat or prevent depression.

Lauren Moss and Joshua Short featured Dr. Kimberlie Warren in a conversation—boosting local mental health awareness.

Notre Dame football has shown redzone efficiency by scoring on 14 of 17 trips—avoiding turnovers during a 33-game streak—while Coach Marcus Freeman credited the clear game plan and strong running game for the success.

South Bend Saint Joseph's boys tennis team swept the NIC season with a 7-0 record.

Junior Jacob Hix earned NIC MVP honors while Huskies coach Matt Halfpenny was named NIC Coach of the Year—giving the team top honors in the Northern Indiana Conference.

Notre Dame football cornerback Leonard Moore missed two games with a high ankle sprain and is expected to return for Saturday’s game against Boise State—though he may not be at full strength.

Coach Marcus Freeman said Moore’s strong practice progress gives the defense a boost while freshman Mark Zackery IV learns from his film-study guidance.

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.

Euchre Game Fun Day

5 PM — Battell Community Center — $2 entry, nickel a set — Enjoy a fun day of cards with friends and snacks.

IDEA Foot Chase 5K/10K

12:30-4:30 p.m. — Central Park — $35-$45 — Lace up for a family-friendly run benefiting the Indiana Drug Enforcement Association while enjoying the scenic Riverwalk paths.