St. Joseph County officials reported unauthorized access to an external fax service used by the county. The fax service is separate from internal systems, and there is currently no evidence of impact on county operations. Investigations are ongoing, with updates to be provided as new information arises.
South Bend Common Council members Oliver Davis and Sherry Bolden-Simpson have urged Indiana Governor Mike Braun to temporarily suspend the state gasoline tax due to rising fuel costs. They highlight that current local prices average $3.80 per gallon, straining residents financially. The council suggests the suspension until prices stabilize.
On March 23, 2026, Proteus, Inc. held the Indiana Farmworker Recognition Breakfast in South Bend, honoring farmworkers and raising funds for their support services. Mayor James Mueller and State Rep. Maureen Bauer acknowledged National Farmworker Awareness Week. Keynote speaker José Padilla emphasized farmwork's significance, while awards recognized outstanding contributions and provided educational support.
Stephanie D. Ball, a candidate for St. Joseph Circuit Court clerk, has an unpaid default judgment of $5,628.05 resulting from a Citibank credit card debt. Despite claiming to be a certified credit counselor with experience in guiding others through legal processes, she filed no response to her own lawsuit. Ball's campaign documentation raises concerns about professionalism and accuracy, reflecting her tenure on the school board, where mismanagement led to inflated costs on a renovation project. This record complicates her candidacy for a position responsible for maintaining court records.
In June 2020, South Bend voters approved a property tax referendum providing $166.4 million for education. However, a recent audit revealed significant financial misconduct, including questionable payments to officials and contractors totaling over $1 million, lack of documentation, and inappropriate spending of referendum funds, raising concerns about accountability and trust.
Two hours before I sat down to write this, the St. Joseph County Democratic Party posted a Facebook message that opened with the mourning of two fallen U.S. service members and closed with a campaign endorsement for Jamee Decio.
The clerk's office is defined by neutrality and precision, maintaining court records and overseeing elections without political agendas. Incumbent Amy Rolfes has established efficient procedures and achieved high confidence in election integrity. Challenger Stephanie Ball emphasizes empathy and advocacy but fails to address the office's objective requirements, questioning her suitability for the role.
Chimichurri, renowned for its authentic Argentine cuisine, has transformed its South Bend location with a handcrafted patio that features a big-screen TV for World Cup viewing. The owners aim to provide a welcoming community space where everyone can enjoy great food and the excitement of live soccer this summer.
Diego Morales, endorsed by Trump as Indiana's Secretary of State, faces potential removal from his position despite his loyalty to the party's direction. Powerful Republicans have backed challenger Max Engling, questioning Morales' alignment with party values. The decision now rests with delegates at the upcoming convention, who previously supported Morales.
Dan Schaetzle, a St. Joseph County councilman and Penn High School teacher, prioritizes community improvement over politics. He aims to secure funding for projects like Anderson Road Park while addressing concerns like leaf pickup and snow plowing. Schaetzle promotes civic engagement among youth and emphasizes maintaining efficient government as a Republican.
Diego Morales, Indiana's Secretary of State, is campaigning for re-election in 2026, emphasizing his commitment to election integrity and security. He highlights his achievements, including stronger voter ID laws and procedural audits. Morales aims to unite Republicans and ensure accurate elections, reflecting pride in his immigration journey and dedication to Hoosiers.
Sandra Ort, a Republican Trustee of Greene Township since 1983, has announced her retirement, effective May 31, 2025. Her impactful legacy includes improving fire protection, advancing education by transferring to the John Glenn School Corporation, and prioritizing food accessibility. Ort’s dedication and community support will be remembered as she steps aside for a younger successor.
Doris Portolese, a Penn Township Trustee since 2015, is recognized for her fiscal responsibility and community-focused leadership. She has saved the township significant funds, negotiated key infrastructure developments, and supported vulnerable residents through partnerships like the Mishawaka Food Pantry. Portolese remains committed to enhancing the quality of life in her community.
Township Trustees play a crucial yet often underappreciated role in local government, overseeing services like emergency relief, fire and EMS, and cemetery management. Olive Township Trustee Will Miller emphasizes the importance of his position in assisting residents during crises and balancing community needs with industrial development, advocating for responsible growth.
St. Joseph County officials reported unauthorized access to an external fax service used by the county. The fax service is separate from internal systems, and there is currently no evidence of impact on county operations. Investigations are ongoing, with updates to be provided as new information arises.
South Bend Common Council members Oliver Davis and Sherry Bolden-Simpson have urged Indiana Governor Mike Braun to temporarily suspend the state gasoline tax due to rising fuel costs. They highlight that current local prices average $3.80 per gallon, straining residents financially. The council suggests the suspension until prices stabilize.
On March 23, 2026, Proteus, Inc. held the Indiana Farmworker Recognition Breakfast in South Bend, honoring farmworkers and raising funds for their support services. Mayor James Mueller and State Rep. Maureen Bauer acknowledged National Farmworker Awareness Week. Keynote speaker José Padilla emphasized farmwork's significance, while awards recognized outstanding contributions and provided educational support.
Stephanie D. Ball, a candidate for St. Joseph Circuit Court clerk, has an unpaid default judgment of $5,628.05 resulting from a Citibank credit card debt. Despite claiming to be a certified credit counselor with experience in guiding others through legal processes, she filed no response to her own lawsuit. Ball's campaign documentation raises concerns about professionalism and accuracy, reflecting her tenure on the school board, where mismanagement led to inflated costs on a renovation project. This record complicates her candidacy for a position responsible for maintaining court records.
In June 2020, South Bend voters approved a property tax referendum providing $166.4 million for education. However, a recent audit revealed significant financial misconduct, including questionable payments to officials and contractors totaling over $1 million, lack of documentation, and inappropriate spending of referendum funds, raising concerns about accountability and trust.
Two hours before I sat down to write this, the St. Joseph County Democratic Party posted a Facebook message that opened with the mourning of two fallen U.S. service members and closed with a campaign endorsement for Jamee Decio.
The clerk's office is defined by neutrality and precision, maintaining court records and overseeing elections without political agendas. Incumbent Amy Rolfes has established efficient procedures and achieved high confidence in election integrity. Challenger Stephanie Ball emphasizes empathy and advocacy but fails to address the office's objective requirements, questioning her suitability for the role.
Chimichurri, renowned for its authentic Argentine cuisine, has transformed its South Bend location with a handcrafted patio that features a big-screen TV for World Cup viewing. The owners aim to provide a welcoming community space where everyone can enjoy great food and the excitement of live soccer this summer.
Diego Morales, endorsed by Trump as Indiana's Secretary of State, faces potential removal from his position despite his loyalty to the party's direction. Powerful Republicans have backed challenger Max Engling, questioning Morales' alignment with party values. The decision now rests with delegates at the upcoming convention, who previously supported Morales.
Dan Schaetzle, a St. Joseph County councilman and Penn High School teacher, prioritizes community improvement over politics. He aims to secure funding for projects like Anderson Road Park while addressing concerns like leaf pickup and snow plowing. Schaetzle promotes civic engagement among youth and emphasizes maintaining efficient government as a Republican.
Diego Morales, Indiana's Secretary of State, is campaigning for re-election in 2026, emphasizing his commitment to election integrity and security. He highlights his achievements, including stronger voter ID laws and procedural audits. Morales aims to unite Republicans and ensure accurate elections, reflecting pride in his immigration journey and dedication to Hoosiers.
Sandra Ort, a Republican Trustee of Greene Township since 1983, has announced her retirement, effective May 31, 2025. Her impactful legacy includes improving fire protection, advancing education by transferring to the John Glenn School Corporation, and prioritizing food accessibility. Ort’s dedication and community support will be remembered as she steps aside for a younger successor.
Doris Portolese, a Penn Township Trustee since 2015, is recognized for her fiscal responsibility and community-focused leadership. She has saved the township significant funds, negotiated key infrastructure developments, and supported vulnerable residents through partnerships like the Mishawaka Food Pantry. Portolese remains committed to enhancing the quality of life in her community.
Township Trustees play a crucial yet often underappreciated role in local government, overseeing services like emergency relief, fire and EMS, and cemetery management. Olive Township Trustee Will Miller emphasizes the importance of his position in assisting residents during crises and balancing community needs with industrial development, advocating for responsible growth.
Two hours before I sat down to write this, the St. Joseph County Democratic Party posted a Facebook message that opened with the mourning of two fallen U.S. service members and closed with a campaign endorsement for Jamee Decio.
The clerk's office is defined by neutrality and precision, maintaining court records and overseeing elections without political agendas. Incumbent Amy Rolfes has established efficient procedures and achieved high confidence in election integrity. Challenger Stephanie Ball emphasizes empathy and advocacy but fails to address the office's objective requirements, questioning her suitability for the role.
Stephanie D. Ball, a candidate for St. Joseph Circuit Court clerk, has an unpaid default judgment of $5,628.05 resulting from a Citibank credit card debt. Despite claiming to be a certified credit counselor with experience in guiding others through legal processes, she filed no response to her own lawsuit. Ball's campaign documentation raises concerns about professionalism and accuracy, reflecting her tenure on the school board, where mismanagement led to inflated costs on a renovation project. This record complicates her candidacy for a position responsible for maintaining court records.
Chimichurri, renowned for its authentic Argentine cuisine, has transformed its South Bend location with a handcrafted patio that features a big-screen TV for World Cup viewing. The owners aim to provide a welcoming community space where everyone can enjoy great food and the excitement of live soccer this summer.
Chimichurri, renowned for its authentic Argentine cuisine, has transformed its South Bend location with a handcrafted patio that features a big-screen TV for World Cup viewing. The owners aim to provide a welcoming community space where everyone can enjoy great food and the excitement of live soccer this summer.
My State Senator, Democrat, David Niezgodski, recently showcased a very new upbeat writing style.
On June 11, 2026 Niezgodski published a Guest Column piece in the South Bend Tribune, “Look at what we’re...
As Father's Day approaches, the author reflects on their father's handyman skills and the cherished drink machine that served generations. Unlike their brothers, who inherited these abilities, the author has relied on professionals but found newfound confidence with AI's assistance during a recent home repair. This shift highlights changing dynamics in both parenting and technology.
Union Pacific's Big Boy 4014, the world's largest operational steam locomotive, made a historic stop in Argos, Indiana, drawing thousands of spectators in celebration of the nation's 250th anniversary. The event fostered community spirit, nostalgia, and unity among diverse attendees, marking a memorable moment in American history.
Baugo Bay, a vital ecological area in Indiana, is disappearing due to poor drainage and sediment buildup, leading to stagnation and harmful algae growth. This threatens local wildlife and recreational activities. Community efforts, including a proposed dredging plan, aim to restore the bay and protect its ecosystem for future generations.
Amazon, AWS, in New Carlisle, recently received permission to drain 31.2 million gallons of water per day using the Niespodziany Ditch as a spillway.
We...
Notre Dame's recent initiatives, like the Link Trail, aim to strengthen ties with its surrounding community, South Bend. However, branding choices, such as framing connections as one-way, overlook the mutual support and history of the area. Acknowledging the neighborhood's past and celebrating diverse contributions would enhance community appreciation and partnerships.
Harvard professor Robert Putnam’s work emphasizes the importance of community participation for personal fulfillment and societal health. Netflix’s documentary “Join or Die” captures these ideas, illustrating how involvement in groups fosters democracy and happiness. Featuring local figures like David Campbell and Pete Buttigieg, it encourages collective efforts for stronger communities.
The decline of local newspapers has significant consequences, as they once provided crucial coverage of community events and fostered civic engagement. The shift to free online news has contributed to this loss, resulting in diminished local discourse. The author calls for more community involvement through thoughtful contributions to restore meaningful conversation.