MISHAWAKA ― A new sporting goods retailer is headed to the space in Wilshire Plaza that Burlington most recently occupied Academy Sports + Outdoors a senior public relations specialist with the company The Mishawaka store will be the chain’s ninth location in Indiana The store, which already is under construction, is located at 5652 Grape Road at the northern end of the plaza. Burlington relocated from the spot to Princess City Plaza just south on Grape Road in 2024 The 71,801-square-foot store will employ about 60 people There are more than 300 Academy stores across 21 states as well as exercise equipment and firearms It also has a localized merchandising strategy to ensure customers in the community can find what they want including gear for Notre Dame Fighting Irish fans Academy also offers private-label brands that offer value-focused outdoor apparel and equipment The new store will be the third sporting goods store in the Mishawaka shopping district. Dick's Sporting Goods opened in a new store at Princess City Plaza two years ago, and Dunham's Sports opened a second area store at 5851 Grape Road last year Email Tribune Market Basket columnist Ed Semmler at esemmler@sbtinfo.com with tips about retail and restaurant openings and closings (WSBT) — Many people in the area are celebrating the Derby Saturday Ball Band Biergarten in Mishawaka hosted its annual Derby Day watch party Guest could watch the Derby on the big screen along with live music This event also kicked off the Ball Band Biergarten season You can check out the events for the rest of the events happening at the Ball Band Biergarten here Search IconChange Location7 Day ForecastHourlyMonday63° 47°30%Tuesday62° 50°30%Wednesday70° 47°20%Thursday65° 40°0%Friday67° 46°0%Saturday72° 50°0%Sunday73° 52°0%Interactive RadarLatest WeathercastLATEST FORECAST Mishawaka, IN Skies will be mostly cloudy this afternoon with a slight chance of light rain/drizzle. Highs will be near 63. This evening we are back to seeing scattered rain showers. Rain will be more likely and steady by early morning. Lows overnight drop to 47. Tomorrow we continue with chances of rain. Showers will be off and on but chances are higher for steady rain showers east of US15. Highs near 62. Wednesday looks like we finally get the Low to move away and we are back to drier conditions. Partly sunny skies with highs near 70. Highs at the end of the week will be in the mid to upper 60s and possibly see some 70s this weekend. What was making news in our area during this week in years past The History Museum offers these South Bend Tribune newspaper excerpts to give you an idea 1901: “The South Bend and Mishawaka boulevard committee held a meeting on Friday evening in the city council chamber Members from South Bend and Mishawaka and property owners along the proposed driveway on the St The meeting was marked by unusual enthusiasm over the boulevard project and property owners made brief talks in which they advocated the boulevard and expressed a willingness to do all in their power to further the project.” 1911: “Pertinent facts on the advisability of the purchase of voting machines for use in South Bend and St Joseph county are contained in a report to the Chamber of Commerce made public to-day The committee reported unanimously in favor of the machines from the standpoints of both economy and practicability as compared with the present voting system.” Leeper the winner of the republican nomination by a plurality of 224 votes over City Attorney Lewis W The race between Leeper and Hammond was one of the closest in the history of the city.” 1932: “The Farmers’ State Bank of Wyatt today filed suit in circuit court to replevin 800 pounds of peppermint Oil which it claims is being wrongfully held by Ambrose was distilled in 1931 on a farm near Wyatt on which the bank has a claim and was given to the Majors by Louise Hillaert who is said to be claiming an interest in the property.” 1941: “Sheriff Steve Molnar and his aids Wednesday afternoon enacted what could have easily been a scene snipped from some wild-west saga when they conducted a roundup at Darden and Hollyhock roads The county crew substituted lariats for revolvers when a call was received that a herd of 20 cattle had formed a bovine blockade of the road intersection.” 1958: “Mishawaka’s board of school trustees accepted bids on several maintenance projects approved the purchase of equipment for the gymnasium of the Emmons Elementary-Junior High School 1968: “The trainer of United States astronauts said here Thursday that there is no rescue plan included in the coming Apollo moon flights should any men become stranded on the moon.” by Sean English and Kyland Hall this is a large shopping area with Sam's Club Local business owners are already seeing some increased traffic trouble on Main Street (WSBT) — Your drive through Mishawaka will be a bit slower for several months due to a major construction project The busy Main Street bridge at the Toll Road in Mishawaka is seeing some big changes the northbound lanes are closed for preventative maintenance Phase 1 of this project is fixing up the Northbound lanes on the Main Street bridge This project is expected to be completed by the start of July Phase 2 will fix the southbound lanes over the Main Street bridge shutting south-bound down traffic until around mid-October This project is expected to cost $2.4 million dollars to do preventative maintenance "Just cause there’s so many shops out here and so the congestion levels will be a lot more than what you would normally expect,” said Mark Nowak The improvements on the bridge are expected to have a lifespan of 10-15 years Nowak said these updates can be a pain now but are necessary and will help in the long run "But these are necessary improvements and they are only going to last until July this is a necessary evil that we are going to have to deal with If the bridge collapsed or anything like that but it will help us in the future,” said Nowak People driving on the road on Monday said this will be a long few months for this project SE: Are you worried about the safety of drivers coming up especially on the weekends when everyone wants to be out,” said Aubree Scott WSBT 22 spoke with a few people living at Indian Lakes apartments nearby who are worried about drivers using the apartment complex as a detour The apartment complex does exit on Douglas Road but the designated detour for this project is heading west on Indian Ridge to take Grape Road over the Toll Road The springtime leaf pickup program in Mishawaka will run from Monday and will take place the day before the scheduled residential trash pickup days The city devotes a week for residents to gather any remaining yard leaves for collection. The Street Department has issued tips for residents for the one-week pickup program: ■ The leaves will be picked up on the day before residential pickup days street crews will be in neighborhoods on Monday in areas that have Tuesday scheduled trash pickups For residents who have trash pickup on Mondays the street crews will pick up leaves on Friday ■ Residents are asked to have the leaves by the curbside by 7 a.m ■ Leaves should be placed in loose piles only and should not be bagged Residents are asked to place them away from storm drains limbs or yard waste will not be picked up by the crews City officials said the one-week pickup program is a way the city helps residents clean up yards and neighborhoods as the spring progresses For questions about the pickup program or when crews will be in neighborhoods, contact the Mishawaka Street Department at 574-258-1660 Email Tribune staff writer Greg Swiercz at gswiercz@gannett.com (WSBT) — A woman was taken into custody Tuesday morning after police say she threatened a man while armed with a machete There was a 90 minute standoff between the woman and police before she was taken into custody She was taken to the hospital for a mental health evaluation Reports have been filed and sent to the St 1909: “That there has been considerable interest in birds aroused since the visit of Col the “bird and bee man” to this city recently was shown by the large attendance of boys at the A.C.A The meeting was called to hear the report of a committee appointed at a previous meeting to draw up rules and regulations for the organization of a club for the study and protection of birds.” Joseph county thinks of its world war veterans was strikingly emphasized Saturday afternoon by the thousands of enthusiastic spectators who jammed the principal streets of the city and voiced their appreciation and regard in no uncertain tones when the hundreds of khaki and blue clad warriors marched in review in the welcome home parade.” 1922: “The city firemen have organized an indoor baseball team to be known as the Mishawaka fire department nine Bert Raab has been elected captain and William Heiser manager The team is open for games with any nine in the community and arrangements for contests can be made by calling Mishawaka 23.” 1936: “National music week will be observed in South Bend public schools next week with two half days of demonstrations by instrumental music class pupils next Thursday and Friday in Central Senior High school auditorium Intended to give parents and others in the city an opportunity to view the work being carried on in these classes and the interest taken in music by the pupils the demonstrations will present pupils of 11 piano classes and groups from 10 other instrumental classes in strings 1942: “Afternoon classes in South Bend’s public elementary schools probably will be suspended the first four days of next week to release teachers for the job of registering individual consumers for sugar rationing said today that the classes would be suspended Monday and that the shorter schedule would be continued through Thursday unless it was found that the afternoon classes could be run without upsetting the program of signing up the thousands of sugar users.” 1953: “Burglars tunneled into the Homecrest Store Friday night and took approximately $1,000 from the store safe by chopping a hole in the wall between the Varsity Restaurant will introduce five new products at an open house from 8:30 a.m Wednesday to Friday in its South Bend-Mishawaka sales office at 917 S government and schools are invited to see demonstrations of an expanded line of copying and duplicating equipment and supplies a machine that makes its own masters and then duplicates up to 100 copies for less than a quarter-cent each.” South Bend.  Michael was born on September 18 his wife of 48 years; their three daughters and Micah (Tony) Bilotto of Fishers; and his father and mother-in-law DeWayne and Barbara Forrest of Granger.  He is also survived by his 12 grandchildren whom he adored and Bentley.  Michael is reunited with his son Michael loved to minister to the Hoi Polloi everyday people.” He loved helping others.  Michael was an accomplished musician and loved playing the guitar and singing.  He had a great sense of humor and loved to talk.  He numbered all of his grandchildren and loved being around all of them.  His immediate family was his prized circle and he was proud of all of them.  Michael had the television in the garage on 24 hours a day and enjoyed watching the Three Stooges Westerns or Andy Griffin.  Michael was a self-employed handyman.  He assisted families in need by officiating many funerals for Palmer Funeral Homes A Celebration of Michael’s life will be held on Saturday IN.  Friends may visit with the family from 1:00-4:00 p.m with words of remembrance beginning at 4:00 p.m.  contributions in memory of Michael Rayburn may be donated to his family.  Please make payable to Kelly Rayburn and mail to Palmer Funeral Home IN  46614.  Online condolences may be offered to the Rayburn family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com Family c/o Palmer Funeral Homes - Guisinger Chapel3718 South Michigan Street (WSBT) — One person is in the hospital after a fire in downtown Mishawaka late Saturday night Fire crews arrived at Les Deux Souers Tea Room and Treasures just after 11 p.m This is next to the Prized Pig on Lincolnway East There is no word on their condition at this time An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway (WSBT) — Police are providing new details in this deadly crash near Concord High School Two men were injured when a car traveling west on East Mishawaka Road crashed into a car driving west One of the drivers was pronounced dead on scene The other driver had to be cut out of his car and is now in the hospital E Mishawaka Road and County Road 20 have been reopened stay with us on air and online as we work to find new information University of Notre Dame Notre Dame News The Robinson Community Learning Center (RCLC) welcomed a special visitor Wednesday (March 5): award-winning actor Adam Driver Driver’s many film credits include Noah Baumbach’s “Marriage Story,” Spike Lee’s “BlacKKKlansman,” Ridley Scott’s “The Last Duel,” Michael Mann’s “Ferrari,” Martin Scorsese’s “Silence” and Francis Ford Coppola’s recent “Megalopolis,” to name a few He is widely known for his role as Kylo Ren in the Star Wars sequel trilogy participated in a discussion about acting with members of the RCLC’s youth theater program which offers lessons to area students in grades three through 12 the informal discussion was part of a daylong visit to the area for the Marine Corps veteran who as a screen and stage actor is known for his versatility In addition to visiting the RCLC, Driver also visited with Notre Dame Film, Television and Theater students met with military veteran students on campus and visited with drama students at his alma mater who has garnered award nominations for his on- and off-Broadway roles watched as students took turns reading from the Hamlet soliloquy “To be or not to be,” nodding and grinning throughout and clapping with appreciation afterward does it make sense to you?” he asked of the famous Shakespearean monologue in which the eponymous prince contemplates death and suicide “I’m pretty sure it’s about — he’s debating what the point of living is and — and if sleeping and death would be the same,” one of the students said “And the only reason we don’t embrace death is because we don’t know what happens after death,” said another He also talked about his formative years as a drama student at Mishawaka High School where he first fell in love with the stage “High school was when I got excited about acting … It felt like we could do whatever we wanted,” he said the Juilliard-trained actor underscored the importance of a formal education because I didn’t know anything about acting,” he said So going to school for four years to kind of develop a way to work was really helpful.” it was at Juilliard that he first studied Shakespeare “You guys know more Shakespeare than I did at your age,” he said Jennifer Jermano Miller is the theater and fine arts program director at the RCLC “I’m glad he spoke a little bit about his journey because I think that’s really important for students to hear,” Jermano Miller said “And I really love that he told the students that school is so important.” Pointing to his modest upbringing far from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood talked about feeling responsible — especially as he ages and grows professionally — for uplifting young and aspiring actors from similar backgrounds No one in my family was in the business; we didn’t have any access,” he said where it doesn’t feel like being an actor is a real possibility if you can give someone a small push to pursue the arts Driver’s visit lasted about 45 minutes and included photos and autographs Earlier in the day, he discussed the art and business of acting as part of a panel discussion and Q&A with a group of about 40 students and faculty at the Philbin Studio Theatre in the DeBartolo Performing Arts Center on campus Seated between Chris Becker, associate professor of television, and Siiri Scott he talked about choosing roles; the auditioning process; working with agents lawyers and casting directors; the impact of streaming on the film industry; and navigating success About the modern motion picture viewing experience he acknowledged the convenience of streaming but expressed a personal preference for the familiar comfort of a crowded theater “There’s nothing better than being in a room with a group of people watching a film.” Driver’s visit was particularly special for Mason Kacmar The junior transfer student from the University of Southern California was an extra in “White Noise,” director Noah Baumbach’s absurdist drama starring Driver as a middling liberal arts professor with an irrational fear of death Kacmar was in two scenes with Driver — one in a grocery store and one on the campus of the fictional College-on-the-Hill Kacmar asked Driver what it was like to film so close to home “I definitely like shooting closer to home because of my family,” he said noting that the crews are different in the Midwest compared with the coasts and especially Europe just “based on the culture.” Driver’s visit was a complete surprise for the students and when he entered the group broke into stunned applause “It was really surreal seeing that it was him,” he said afterward “I had no idea coming into this experience that it was going to be Adam Driver And the fact that I actually got to be an extra in a film that he has done in my hometown of Cleveland was super special.” gesturing and laughing throughout the discussion “We all have our idea of what famous celebrities or actors are going to be like but he just seemed like a chill guy that just wanted to talk with us So I was just super grateful to have the experience,” he said He said the opportunity to learn from someone as accomplished as Driver underscored the quality of the FTT program which offers a unique mix of design and production “It continues to showcase Notre Dame’s alumni connections and just the way that their ability to network is top-notch and that’s one of the reasons why I came here,” he said Driver took questions from about a dozen students during the 90-minute discussion responding to each query with warmth and candor “The session felt like hanging out in an intimate masterclass,” Becker said “The way he listened intently and responded to each student’s question showed just how genuine and down-to-earth he is.” "Adam was incredibly generous and open with our students offering insights that not only inspired them but also reinforced the very practices we teach," said Scott "It was a great reminder that the work we do in the classroom will help prepare them for the profession." Driver met privately with veteran students later in the day Although the organization is no longer active he still believes in honoring and enriching the lives of military members through strategic outreach and shared experiences in film and theater “There’s not a lot of systems in place where people can process their time being in the military,” he said the arts was a massive way of kind of transitioning back into civilian life because even though it seems polar opposite from the military It’s all about responding without thinking and working within a small group of people to accomplish something bigger than anyone’s particular role.” Driver’s visit was organized by Notre Dame’s Office of Public Affairs, Department of Film, Television and Theater, Office of Military and Veterans Affairs and DeBartolo Performing Arts Center Notre Dame News © 2025 University of Notre Dame MISHAWAKA — A 280-unit apartment development at Beacon Parkway and Fir Road will soon have apartments ready Springs at Mishawaka with amenities such as a pool and fitness center will soon offer pre-lease with May move-in on some of its units “We’re on schedule,” said Jordan Teichen, development director for Continental Properties A portion of apartment units will be available for pre-lease starting sometime this month as buildings are being constructed sequentially with the first units anticipated to be move-in ready in May Construction of the apartment community began in July after Continental Properties closed on a 20.43-acre combined parcel purchased from a private owner which incorporated 13.55 acres annexed from St which was combined with an existing 6.88 acres already in Mishawaka Construction is scheduled for completion in March 2026 a car-care center to wash and vacuum vehicles that includes a dog wash There will be spaces for residents to park in the parking lot there are options to park in attached and detached garages within the community although the clubhouse is outside the gated section and will be staffed later this month for those interested in pre-leasing two- and three-bedroom units will range from about $1,500 to $2,350 as initially estimated Continental Properties had initially considered a range of 280 to 320 units but decided that 280 was the “sweet spot” to avoid leasing too many units some residents near where Springs at Mishawaka is being built expressed concern about if the development would increase congestion on Fir Road Continental Properties decided to allow only emergency vehicle access from the Fir Road driveway for Springs at Mishawaka with residents accessing the apartment complex from Beacon Parkway Ken Prince, planning and community development manager for the City of Mishawaka, said that he reached out a while ago to St. Joseph County to inquire if the county planned to widen Fir Road to ease congestion but said the county told him that it didn’t plan to widen the road A spokesperson for St. Joseph County Public Works could not be reached for comment St. Pius X Catholic School in Granger said that Fir Road is only one lane by the school The school hired off-duty police officers since about a decade ago to help with traffic during certain times but the school has no plans to change its drop-off and pick-up times Prince said he is pleased with the progress of Springs at Mishawaka so far “They [Continental Properties] are doing what they said they’re going to do,” he said IN to the late Luther Arthur and Gertrude (Zehrung) Crocker Irene's life was a testament to her resilience and capacity for love and shared 45 years of wedded bliss until Russell’s passing on September 14 Her warm presence will be deeply missed by her extended family and friends She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sister Irene spent the first 14 years of her career at Associates in South Bend where she pioneered a group for women professionals She then spent over 20 years in security service at Honeywell/Allied Signal/Bendix Irene served the Student Activities Department at the University of Notre Dame for 15 years before embarking on her well-deserved retirement Irene enjoyed bowling at Regal Lanes where she was a champion bowler Irene also found joy in crafting and spending time outdoors and baker whose creations brought warmth and comfort to those around her Irene spent the months leading up to Christmas baking holiday treats for friends and family She created unique and beautiful beaded ornaments and decorations to adorn the family home for the holiday season.  her garden was a point of pride and beauty Irene also cherished her many camping trips with family fostering a sense of adventure and building memories that her loved ones will continue to hold dear Irene and Russell bonded over their shared love of camping which they imparted on their son IN–often for spontaneous visits in their camper or to enjoy live music Irene was a friend to all animals and loved the companionship she found in the family’s many pets over the years frequently sharing stories with close friends of Patrick’s adventures in fishing Irene's life was one of thoughtfulness Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those she touched and the family that she adored and love of the outdoors will bring comfort and continue to inspire those who knew her.  with services immediately to follow at Palmer Funeral Home – Bubb Chapel Memorial Contributions may be donated in Irene’s name to South Bend Animal Resource Center South Bend Animal Resource Center521 Eclipse Pl by Nick Oudhoff ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. (WSBT) — Mishawaka City Council voting unanimously to send to the state its application to provide water and sewer services for the new Microsoft data Center in St. Joseph County. It will be sent to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, asking to have sole control of water supply for the plant. St. Joseph County officials spoke at the Council Meeting, saying they believe “they were misled” throughout this whole process. Carl H. Baxmeyer, St. Joseph Board of Commissioners President, says, "The city is maintaining that they were first in time because they passed this ordinance 11 years ago and never followed it up with the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission." This disagreement between St. Joseph County and the City of Mishawaka over who should service this property stems from misfiled paperwork over territory regulations back in 2014. Granger Water and St. Joseph County Regional Sewer District are trying to claim the property where Microsoft wants to build a data facility near Cleveland and Current Avenue. But Mishawaka officials say they have already invested in a new water treatment plant with more than enough capacity to service the high demands of a data center, something the county can't offer. The City of Mishawaka and the County say they initially talked with Microsoft about working together. But city leaders say they were suddenly and surprisingly notified the county was going to take control. Matthew Lentsch, Mishawaka Executive Director of Development, says, "I find it hard to believe that Microsoft would have agreed to come if it was not for Mishawaka stepping forward and saying we have the capacity, we have the ability to serve, we will gladly serve you." Mishawaka will now file an application to the IURC where a scheduled hearing will take place on who has control of water supply for the Microsoft Data Facility. Hundreds of protesters gathered outside Congressman Rudy Yakym’s office in Mishawaka on Friday, voicing frustration over his lack of town hall meetings and other concerns. The demonstration, organized by Michiana Alliance for Democracy, was titled "Where is Rudy?" in reference to accusations that the Republican representative from Indiana’s 2nd District has avoided holding town hall-style events to engage with constituents. Protesters, some of whom have attempted to schedule one-on-one meetings with Yakym, said they’ve been told these requests could not be accommodated. Mary Ellen Hegedus, a member of Michiana Alliance for Democracy, emphasized the need for Yakym to remember his responsibility to those he represents. "He needs to remember that he works for us," Hegedus said. One key issue discussed during the protest was a bill that would end electric vehicle (EV) mandates. Protesters raised concerns that such a move could hurt the new battery plant being built in St. Joseph County, a project expected to bring 1,600 jobs to the area. Other issues raised included gerrymandering and Yakym’s support for the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, a figure some protesters argued should not have such influence. Cheryl Nix, one of the protest organizers, pointed to a potential opportunity for direct engagement: a town hall meeting set for April 14th at the Gillespie Conference Center. Yakym has been invited to attend a panel discussion, but Nix questioned whether the congressman would attend. "We haven’t had one in twelve years. Will he break the streak? I don’t know," Nix said. Yakym’s office did not address whether he would attend the town hall meeting on April 14th. The protest is part of a broader wave of demonstrations across the region, following similar rallies, including one in Dowagiac against Representative Tim Walberg. Organizers say they will continue to push for more direct communication and accountability from their elected officials. Armstrong Williams takes on the news of the week and asks the questions you want answered. Don’t miss our weekly town hall. sewer of future Microsoft facility splits county There is water and sewer disagreement between the City of Mishawaka and St IN (WSBT) — There is a water and sewer disagreement between the City of Mishawaka and St Joseph County officials spoke out after the city of Mishawaka applied to be the sole provider of water and sewer service to the new Microsoft data facility in Granger County officials felt they were left out of the conversation over Mishawaka filing to be the supplier President of the County Commissioners says Mishawaka made the wrong decision The Mishawaka City Council approved the move to apply with the state to provide the water and sewage supply to the new Microsoft data center in Granger Joseph County officials believe the county should control the water supply "This should have gone to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission And we would have had this argument 11 years ago but because it didn't go 11 years ago There was nothing to to go and talk to the IURC about,” said Carl Baxmeyer Joseph County officials were upset by Mishawaka City Council applying to be the main water and sewer supplier to the new Microsoft data center in Granger County officials say this whole situation began back in May when St Joseph County rezoned the property at Currant and Cleveland roads in Granger the company agreed to pay for all developmental costs Conversations took place aimed at using the city of Mishawaka's Juday Creek water facility Microsoft questioned the county on why the company would have to pay for all extra expenses when Microsoft won't be using all the capacity of the city's water and sewage facility "It was under our assumption everybody's assumption that this is going to be similar to Amazon that they were going to need a large amount of water large amount of sewage But as the process moved forward and we got more information from the from Microsoft It really became apparent that no they didn't need that," said Baxmeyer This lead Microsoft to ask the county for alternatives With the City of Mishawaka applying for water and sewage rights The IURC will hold a hearing to decide who controls the water supply for the incoming Microsoft data center If the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission or IURC decides the city of Mishawaka will provide a water supply to the facility The water would come from the city of Mishawaka's Juday Creek water facility nearly 2 miles away water would be sourced from the Granger water system with sewage going first to Edwardsburg then back down to the Elkhart sewage treatment plant along the St A timeline for the hearing is yet to be announced county officials are hopeful this situation will be worked out for the betterment of this important economic project OSCEOLA — A Mishawaka woman is charged with arson after fire investigators determined a residential fire last month was set intentionally Heather Burns, 33, was charged by the St. Joseph County Prosecutor's office with arson — a level four felony — and two charges of theft a class A misdemeanor and a level six felony for prior conviction of conversion for exerting control over someone else's property without permission The charges stem from a March 16 residential fire The St. Joseph County Police Department originally responded to a domestic disturbance call in the 10000 block of Beatrice Street and spoke with Burns and another person involved in the incident but returned later in the day to retrieve some personal items before leaving again Around five minutes after Burns left the property the second time a witness reported smoke and flames coming from the residence Police didn't say who owned the home or provide further details regarding the domestic call and deferred The Tribune to the prosecutor's office for further information Through an investigation by county police's detective bureau and the Indiana State Fire Marshal investigators determined the fire was set intentionally and ruled it as arson Investigators also accused Burns of possibly having stolen items from the home Burns was booked into the St. Joseph County Jail on April 23 The prosecution asked that Burns be issued a no contact order with the occupant of the home "No contact orders are routinely requested and granted for any case with a victim and that can include a store school or business as well," the prosecutor's office said by email This article will be updated when more information is made available Email Tribune staff writer Camille Sarabia at csarabia@gannett.com (WSBT) — The two-alarm fire damaged four floors of The Mill Phase 2 in Ironworks Plaza on Wednesday March 12 60 total apartment units were nearly completed The extent of the damage in those apartments has now been revealed The Mill at Ironworks Plaza's Phase 2 has extensive damage to its roof and on the fourth floor Mishawaka Assistant Fire Chief David Ray said that the West Wing of the building sustained various degrees of water and smoke damage down the first 3-floors Crews first noticed that two-alarm fire Wednesday morning at about 3:00 when a Mishawaka medic saw flames coming from the building's northwest roof The Indiana State Fire Marshal's office was on scene since Wednesday and is leading the investigation into the fire's cause had power connected for about a week from the city of Mishawaka Assistant Chief Ray said the fire sprinklers had yet to be activated in that wing and weren't turned on yet the heat in that part of the building wasn't turned on Fire crews activated the sprinklers when they pulled up you can see the fourth-floor roof has significant damage resulting in the west wing's exterior to be damaged as well Assistant Chief Ray says the building's West wing was 80% completed WSBT 22 received a statement from the building's developer The developers said the mixed-use 226-unit building was set to open in the next 60 days Assistant Chief Ray says the cause of the fire is still under investigation Services will be held at 1:00 PM on Monday Friends may visit with the family prior to the service from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM at the funeral home.  Those who wish to remember Brent and share their condolences with his family may do so online at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com Tim Tebow Foundation2220 CR 210 W., Ste 108 PMB 317, Jacksonville FL 32259Web: https://timtebowfoundation.org/# MISHAWAKA — Paramedics discovered a fire Wednesday morning at a downtown luxury apartment complex under construction at Ironworks Plaza while on a different call Fire crews were called to The Mill apartment building shortly after 3 a.m in response to a fire seen on the southwest corner of the complex at Front and West streets According to Assistant Fire Chief David Ray it appeared to have started in this area but a cause was not determined "One of our medic units was on a call this morning and saw the fire and called it in," Ray said several aerial water cannons on ladder trucks were used from Mishawaka as well as firefighters who entered the building to battle the fire How long before move-in day for future Mill tenants?Officials from the developer, Flaherty & Collins Properties of Indianapolis were at the scene mid-morning Wednesday but declined to comment Representatives from Mishawaka had not returned calls from The Tribune by deadline police and other public safety from both Mishawaka and surrounding communities for responding to the fire at The Mill II at Ironworks Plaza," the statement said 10,000 square feet of retail along with a 450-space parking garage was planned to open in the next 60 days and does not currently have residents "Flaherty & Collins is fully committed to rebuilding and restoring what was lost as soon as we are able to do so We will continue to provide updates as we work through the investigation process with city and fire officials." No one was inside the building because it is under construction Wednesday were still putting water into the building from the top while firefighters worked inside the structure to ensure the fire did not spread How firefighters attacked the flames at The Mill apartmentsRay said the department used what he termed a "trench row" technique where a trench was formed to act as a stop to the fire so it would not spread Firefighters were taking turns working inside as they were seen entering and exiting the structure Ray said no one had to be evacuated from the nearby Mill apartment building and the Avalon apartments One worker from Whitlock Painting Contractors who did not give his name was at the scene this morning and was part of the construction crews working on the new building The Whitlock employee said he and others from the business were painting the fourth floor walls and were about two months from completing their work four years after the first apartment building at The Mill was completed in 2019 and the new phase will have commercial space designed to allow a riverfront view for the development Apartments in the new building would include studio Amenities similar to the first phase will offer a fitness facility Email Tribune staff writer Greg Swiercz at gswiercz@sbtinfo.com (WSBT) — A wave of retail closures is hitting our area and more businesses face the tough decision of shutting their doors or relocating More than 50 million square feet of retail space is slated to close this year according to Coresight Research Empty storefronts are becoming more common including right here in Mishawaka as businesses shut down or relocate It has left many wondering: what’s behind these changes From big-box stores like Bed Bath & Beyond and JoAnn Fabric and Crafts filing for bankruptcy a trend is emerging as retail businesses struggle to keep up with a rapidly changing market Party City is one of the latest to close its doors the company said: "Like many retailers we’ve been operating in an immensely challenging environment with inflationary pressures on both costs and consumer spending and while we did everything we could to navigate these headwinds our very best efforts were ultimately not enough to overcome these challenges." Commercial real estate broker John Piraccini explains that the closures can be due to a variety of factors "A lot of competition for the shopper's dollar So I think that is affecting the buying in some of these stores on those other products," said Piraccini Companies that were slow to adapt are now feeling the pressure from competitors like Amazon which continues to dominate the market did they transition fast enough to online shopping Amazon was the leader in that and then the others came along," said Piraccini But it's not just online shopping that's a challenge with high debt and the rising costs of maintaining retail spaces also taking a toll Those carrying costs start getting heavy and that's when loans come due and the mortgages are higher then as the math goes And then I think that's what you're seeing right now," said Piraccini (WSBT) — Mishawaka hosted a National Workers Memorial Day service to honor those who have lost their lives or have been injured while on the job The event was an opportunity for the community to get together and pay tribute to those who have lost their lives gave his remarks on the importance of safety The event was also an opportunity to advocate for safer workplaces and better worker protections Joseph County have confirmed they’re gearing up for an all-out fight over who will provide water and sewers to Microsoft’s planned data center site in Granger The county’s Regional Water and Sewer District last week voted to ask state regulators for the right to serve the planned Microsoft site instead of the city Last year the city and county worked together to recruit Microsoft to build a data center in Granger The plan was for the city to extend its water and sewer lines to the site But since then, county officials say they were surprised to hear the city plans to annex the area once it extends the utilities Mishawaka says it never promised it wouldn’t annex and that it’s been expanding its water system nearby for a decade The county now has a sewer system that serves Granger businesses and it says it can buy the small private water system that serves the Farms at St An Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission spokesman says the county will next file its petition both sides will file their case over the coming months and the commission has 300 days to make a decision 2025 — Phil explains all the upcoming details on the Tribute Fest coming to Ironworks Plaza and plenty of great tribute bands performing To learn more about the Tribute Fest, visit mishawaka.recdesk.com/Community/Program Palmer Funeral Home – Bubb Chapel will be assisting the family with final arrangements Condolences may be left to the family online at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com by Kristin Bien (WSBT) — Indiana high school seniors now have less than two months until graduation day but still around five months to complete their credits to be included in the graduating class of 2025 High schools across the state are working to help students make it to the finish line Mishawaka's High School graduation rate increased significantly in 2024 School leaders say they are using a new strategy I have a I've had an A all year in my class," says Carr Carr has dreams of being a flight attendant "I'm excited but I'm nervous because I feel like high school is all I've ever known," says Carr "I'm just kind of scared to be an adult." Carr is planning to attend IU South Bend after she graduates from Mishawaka High School in June "After graduation I plan to stay local and help my mom out while also going to college," says Carr high school graduation wasn't always a certainty for her She struggled in her early years of high school "I feel like four years ago as a freshman I was like "I just didn't I didn't see the appeal of anything Carr says after a couple years she found her footing "Honestly it was my administrators," explains Carr but she has really risen to the occasion," says Mishawaka High School Principal Chad Brugh "and we're just really proud of her." Brugh says Carr is an example of how the district is working to meet kids where they are and build relationships Brugh says there are other students like Carr who have needed extra support to find success "We've implemented an alpha team structure is what we call it," explains Brugh Over the past few years the district has switched up how they encourage and track students "We split our kids up into alphabet groups we have three assistant principals that actually team up with counselors and a secretary They make sure they're getting what they need to get done in the classroom making sure they're earning their credits making sure they are implementing interventions that help the kids get their credits," says Brugh administrators split students up by grade level it is easier to give them individualized support "You can imagine if you're responsible for all seniors that's like a 300-kid group that you have to track it's actually easier to track because they've got less seniors that they have to really keep an eye on," says Brugh Mishawaka maintained a graduation rate in the 90th percentile until the pandemic In 2021 the graduation rate dropped to 81.7% over 91 percent of the class of 2024 graduated Brugh hopes to maintain or increase from last year's graduation rate There are other ways the district is supporting students throughout their time in high school others participate in credit recovery programs and some attend night school or summer school Brugh says the goal is to help as many kids as possible earn that high school diploma that's the why behind why we get into what we do why administrators do what they do," says Brugh Carr says the support is what has helped her get where she is today she and the rest of the class of 2025 will walk the stage receive their diploma and move onto the rest of their lives "I hope to be stable enough financially and myself to support my family Flames have broke out at the Pangford Motel on East McKinley (WSBT) — Flames broke out Tuesday night at the Pangford Motel on East McKinley One person was sent to the hospital with minor injuries Dispatch said the first call came in just after 10:00 Tuesday night Fire crews arrived on the scene and saw smoke coming from the eaves Emergency personnel did not find anyone in the building but they said one person may have been affected by smoke inhalation "We found nobody in the building and we're just trying to round them up to find somewhere for them to stay tonight," said David Ray Penn and South Bend fire departments also responded and Red Cross is helping families impacted Fire investigators are still trying to figure out a cause (WSBT) — WSBT brought you the news when JoAnn Fabrics filed bankruptcy back in January for the second time and planned to close a few hundred locations nationwide Now the retailer says all locations will permanently close You may have already seen some going out of business sales across our area leaving many wondering when new businesses will fill the empty spaces Finding a business to take over spaces can be a challenge because of how large some of the buildings Chamber of Commerce President and former mayor Jeff Rea has been watching buildings change ownership and purpose for over 20 years He says we have seen national retailers grow quickly and expand and then pull back once that expansion proves too ambitious this is the most common reason for a big name like JoAnn to go out of business But whether those stores will be vacant for years or months depends on the current need of other store owners Rea says several businesses have traded spaces with a non-competitor in the north side of Mishawaka over the past year Dick Sporting Goods moved into their new space And Burlington and Marshall's moved over to Dick's old space So sometimes those closings give us a chance to repurpose or reposition You saw Dunhams move up to the north side here recently," said Rea Whether or not a storefront get a new name on the building often comes down to the size and floor plan "JoAnn's a pretty good sized space 'Who are the big retailers we don't have here?' there's a pretty small list of those probably that kind of serve the Midwest that we don't have already And so then I think that makes owners or the center of the property to sort of say so who here is in space maybe that they need more space," said Rea National retailers have been downsizing over the last decade The last Kmart to close down in South Bend was vacant for years before a home outlet store took its place those openings give somebody else a chance to open I think one of the national restaurant chains have closed there's a new one at the mall in what used to be a national chain in one of those," said Rea the shopping center on Portage began to lose business after the Drewry's shut down This had a domino effect on the Martin's and CVS in that center "So as the grocery left in particular The drug store left really no anchor tenant there will demolish that center via redevelopment in conjunction with Drewry's," said Rea Other factors like the rise in online shopping also have an influence on just how quick a retail space like JoAnn's gets a new name on the front while brick and mortar purchases still make up 85% of the market the 15% that remains for online purchases amounts to a much bigger number than in previous years (This story has been updated because an earlier version contained an inaccuracy.) City officials said the measure protects the city's investments over its service area and any future utility expansions The amended ordinance also is a response city officials believe is needed to determine which utility agency is expected to serve the future home of a Microsoft data center planned for the 900-acre property formerly at St meeting on the measure was a debate between the city and several county officials over what utility services Microsoft needs to use in the cooling capacities of its operation Lentsch explained that the county agency "made clear of their intention of filing a competing claim with the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission." because the IURC has a "first in time" review standard when it pertains to establishing utility service "That means that whichever utility files its ordinance first has the upper hand not just for Microsoft but potentially for future utility service in the entire northeast quarter." Dan Schaetzle, president of the County Council said he was disappointed in the council's ordinance saying that he originally thought Mishawaka was not seeking to annex the St Joe Farm property should it provide utilities there He claimed that at a meeting a month later city officials said they wanted to annex the property and I think other members of the (county) council feel misled as well This is not the way we should be working," Schaetzle said Microsoft has indicated it has less intense water needs as we worked with Microsoft towards the development we were informed that … their process uses a different system," Baxmeyer said in working towards a developmental agreement asked the county if there were alternatives." Baxmeyer said he had a conversation with Mishawaka Mayor Dave Wood a couple of weeks ago telling him things changed when county officials learned that Microsoft did not require extensive water and sewer services (he) said we are going to have to remonstrate against this." You want to capture the tax base," Baxmeyer said "But look at it from the company's point of view They can use the alternative of using the St Joseph Farms water system and they can tie into the Granger sewer." director of planning and community development said he was concerned that the partnership between the county and city regarding the Microsoft project was lacking when the city sought information about the utility questions regarding Microsoft He said based on one meeting with St. Joseph County Redevelopment Commission Executive Director Bill Schalliol Joseph County Regional Sewer District had plans to buy Granger Water LLC the matters were not being done in any public meetings rather than being publicly debated," Prince said "We currently built a 747 that has available seating for all this and they are the equivalent of a Cessna," Prince said (they would) have to build another plane to serve the site and we feel like it's an obligation to our 60,000 customers that we have a seat at the table and that these items are discussed." MISHAWAKA ― It’s a party 100 years in the making The oldest active high school gym in the state of Indiana will be celebrated Saturday when Mishawaka boys basketball hosts Northview in “The Cave.” Doors open at 12:45 p.m. It ties back to the first ever game played in the gym when the Mishawaka Maroons lost to the Brazil Red and White More: New Caveman statue at Mishawaka High School brings 'intimidating' mascot to life Brazil took a train up to East Chicago to play a game on Friday took another train to get to Mishawaka for the Saturday contest before returning home The modern-day Northview will simply take a school bus on the three-and-a-half-hour drive Saturday really exciting,” Mishawaka Athletic Director Mark Polsgrove said “There’s been a whole team of people that have worked on this together We have an ‘MHS 100’ committee that has done stuff for the whole school that has helped out with this specific event with Polsgrove estimating more than 500 tickets already being bought through the pre-sale link Both teams will be wearing throwback uniforms along with the coaches dressing the part as well Several things around the game itself will be taking place to celebrate 100 years The Indiana Hoops Hall of Fame has sent basketballs from 1924 to be on display The countdown clock for warmups will be “19:24” instead of the standard 20 minutes Two Mishawaka legends in 1957 alum LeRoy Johnson and former coach Ron Hecklinski will be honored in between the first and second quarters. Both will be inducted into the Hoops HOF later this year former players in attendance will be honored High school basketball: Indiana Hall of Fame to induct former area standouts Brazil/Northview will be represented in the festivities as well as a 1949 graduate who was a cheerleader for the school will present the game ball before the contest The celebration Saturday will cap off a busy 36 hours for “The Cave.” The inaugural IHSAA girls wrestling tournament begins with sectional competition Friday morning and the girls basketball team has a home game with Bremen Friday night “I’m very pleased that people are getting excited about something that is a history-based event,” Mishawaka alum and school historian Peter De Kever said but whatever opponent we’d be playing in a normal game wouldn’t be getting this much hype or attention All of the people who are going to be there Saturday are going to be there to honor the history associated with that building.” The original setup of the gym lasted from the school’s opening in 1924-25 to 1957-58 The excitement that Johnson brought to Mishawaka basketball forced the school to expand the facility from its 2,000-seat arrangement to its modern 4,000-plus seats While Mishawaka has been named the Cavemen for nearly 100 years the gym didn’t start being called “The Cave” until 1992 the auxiliary gym being built in 1987 and the growing trend of giving gyms monikers led to “The Cave” selection for Mishawaka While the gym has primarily been used for athletics some notable non-sports events have taken place in there an Air Force pilot who had been a prisoner-of-war during the Vietnam War returned home to a community-wide celebration on April 8 Numerous standing ovations were given to Brenneman Democratic presidential nominee Hilary Clinton gave a speech in front of more than 4,000 people in the gym The entire Mishawaka student body was in attendance for it I would call ‘The Cave’ the most sacred and significant secular space in the city,” De Kever said Plenty of history has been made within the four walls of the Mishawaka High School gymnasium The volleyball program has won seven sectional and 15 regional titles on its home floor The wrestling program has seen multiple individual state champions come through along with success in the Al Smith Classic they host every holiday break Al Smith 2024: New Prairie middleweight's stand out at Al Smith Classic Wrestling Invitational All six of the girls basketball team’s sectional crowns have been won in “The Cave.” And finally seven of the 11 sectional titles won by the boys basketball program have happened in front of the home fans which moments at “The Cave” have stood out above the rest 1925: Mishawaka wins its first sectional in any sport capturing the boys basketball sectional championship 1939: Mishawaka boys basketball upsets the John Wooden-led South Bend Central Bears 1957: LeRoy Johnson sets a then-gym record scoring 40 points in a win over South Bend Washington 1972: The inaugural IHSAA volleyball state tournament begins with sectionals at Mishawaka South Bend Saint Joseph prevailed on its way to winning the first ever state championship in the sport 1978: Mishawaka wins the inaugural Mishawaka Wrestling Invitational 32 schools from across Indiana now compete in what is often called a “mini state preview” meet 1980: Mishawaka wins its first volleyball sectional championship the first of three under legendary head coach Steve Anderson 1984: Mishawaka girls basketball wins a second-straight sectional title It was the final home game for 1984 Miss Basketball winner Sharon Versyp 2005: The Cavemen volleyball team wins another sectional title after a five-year drought They would reach the state semifinals that season ending a 26-year stretch of dominance of Mishawaka volleyball under the retiring Anderson 2011: One of the best individual performances in gym history happens when Taylor Parmley scores 51 points and grabs 20 rebounds in an 84-83 double overtime victory for the Cavemen girls basketball team against Washington 2024: In a moment De Kever called his personal favorite because he watched it alongside LeRoy Johnson the Cavemen boys basketball team upsets Riley in overtime of the sectional championship game It was the first one won on the home floor since 1939 Honorable mention: Mishawaka coach Shelby Shake getting into a fight with South Bend Central coach John Wooden after a game on Jan The IHSAA forced Shake to resign after the season because of this altercation Special thanks to Peter De Kever for his help with this story