It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic The Kizer House gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in South Bend, IN is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Our mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer and immediately needed meds administered multiple times a”
“I have worked alongside Always Best Care and they have been amazing. Very quick”
“ABC is a great place to be! Thank you Patti, Stephanie, and Michele for all”
“Best Company I’ve ever encountered. I love how flexible and efficient they are. I love”
“Always Best Care has been exceptional the four years i’ve worked there. The staff and”
“I give always best care of 5 stars. They are caring and have a sincere”
“it is my pleasure to leave a review for the Coffee need that support the”
“I have worked with more home health agencies than I care to remember, both in”
“We used ABC several years ago for my dad, after he had a stroke. I”
“We used ABC several years ago for my dad, after he had a stroke. I”
“I love the company I think they really do care about the employee the residents”
“I love working for Always Best Care The staff is very helpful, encouraging wonderful, loving”
“Always Best Care gives great encouragement and support to their caregivers during any situation or”
“Stephanie Stevens is a great CSD! Thanks for all you do!”
“Always Best care is amazing!”
“Always Best Care is a great company. Not only do they provide the best care”
“We have used Always Best Care two different times for our Mother. Both times the”
“Hi my name is Linda and I've been working with always best care for 2”
“I have used quite a few different providers and ABC is by far the best”
“Always best care has always been there when I needed them! They make it convenient for”
“Great place to work at very professional and appreciative for their staff”
“Overall a great company to work for! They do a wonderful job recognizing caregivers; from”
“They really help people when they need it”
“I've had caregivers for about 5 years now. Only having been disappointed and frustrated. Since”
“Carole is an excellent caring professional. She has been extremely helpful in advising us and”
“Our mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer and immediately needed meds administered multiple times a day. After speaking to the independent living center where she resided, our family decided to hire Always Best Care for the meds (and then later for 24-hour aids). We cannot say enough about Darlene and Candy, as well as the numerous aids. Even at the end when our mom no longer needed the meds, they would often stop by to see her anyway. We generally do not give reviews of companies, but their caring approach was exceptional and we decided it was appropriate for others who need these services to know about our experience.”
“I have worked alongside Always Best Care and they have been amazing. Very quick to help out patients in need and staff is very polite and professional.”
“ABC is a great place to be! Thank you Patti, Stephanie, and Michele for all you do! You all are Awesome & thank you for the honors of being part of the team also acknowledging myself for Employee of the Month of March! You all are appreciated”
“Best Company I’ve ever encountered. I love how flexible and efficient they are. I love the open door policy. Michelle is my favorite schedule she does an amazing job with communication.”
“Always Best Care has been exceptional the four years i’ve worked there. The staff and schedulers, especially Michele, are helpful in finding compatibility for your clients, they’re also flexible in scheduling hours. Great company, great staff.”
“I give always best care of 5 stars. They are caring and have a sincere heart I love working with this agency..”
“it is my pleasure to leave a review for the Coffee need that support the most I would like Stephanie Kramer for supporting me and helping me get through my work schedules and feel comfortable at my place of employment. I am sad to see that she left Scheduling , but she still tries her best to help everyone even with her new position. Her dedication means everything I would like to Tasha as well for communicating with me so much I also cannot forget Patricia and Michelle as well. You ladies help me so much with my client. I greatly appreciate you ladies. I appreciate all of the hard work and dedication that you ladies have with meeting me halfway when it comes to our job it definitely makes everything much easier. Keep up the great work as well as the rest of the staff thank you ladies for everything that you do and congratulations Monique on your new position.”
“I have worked with more home health agencies than I care to remember, both in GA and MI, when I worked in healthcare; and I have to say that Always Best Care is one of the best home health care agencies that I have found since the early 90's !!! I have been a client with Always Best Care since February 2022 and I have been extremely pleased with the help I have received both from my caregivers and the office staff. All the staff work hard and the quality of care is exceptional!!! The few occasions that I didn't like a caregiver because of either poor work ethic or personality, Always Best Care always took care of finding another caregiver to better meet my needs ASAP!! When I first started with Always Best Care I did get a few caregivers that weren't a good fit. But, within a very short period of time my scheduler learned my specific needs and personality and she found caregivers for me that were a wonderful match!! As in every area of healthcare, the high turnover of employees is to be expected!!! But, Always Best Care has always made sure that I have a new caregiver that matches my needs and expectations!! I have and would, highly recommend Always Best Care for your home health daily care!!”
“We used ABC several years ago for my dad, after he had a stroke. I called a few months ago to set up a care plan for my elderly mom. She had a hip replaced, and lives alone. I knew we would feel better having someone there to help her and visit with her until she could get up and around on her own. ABC works through our scheduling nightmares (mom tends to send people home early, and tell them not to come back)….and they have been SO patient with our ever changing and increasing needs for mom. Their response time and communication are impeccable!!”
“We used ABC several years ago for my dad, after he had a stroke. I called a few months ago to set up a care plan for my elderly mom. She had a hip replaced, and lives alone. I knew we would feel better having someone there to help her and visit with her until she could get up and around on her own. ABC works through our scheduling nightmares (mom tends to send people home early, and tell them not to come back)….and they have been SO patient with our ever changing and increasing needs for mom. Their response time and communication are impeccable!!”
“I love the company I think they really do care about the employee the residents”
“I love working for Always Best Care The staff is very helpful, encouraging wonderful, loving family. Thank you for the opportunity of serving for your company thank you to Michelle, who is always looking out for me and making sure that I have the hours that I need.”
“Always Best Care gives great encouragement and support to their caregivers during any situation or time of need. The care and dedication to their staff is incredible and I throughly enjoy my time working along side them!”
“Stephanie Stevens is a great CSD! Thanks for all you do!”
“Always Best care is amazing!”
“Always Best Care is a great company. Not only do they provide the best care for their clients, but they go above and beyond for their staff as well.”
“We have used Always Best Care two different times for our Mother. Both times the care was excellent. I have referred Always Best Care to several people.”
“Hi my name is Linda and I've been working with always best care for 2 years now and it's a great atmosphere I like coming in to work meeting new people. It's a place that's kind friendly and it makes you feel at home it makes you feel that you're working with people that understand you know you're different needs your different hours and if something come up they are there to help you with anything that you need help with it's a great company I'm so glad I signed up with the company I signed up a little bit after the pandemic and I just needed somewhere that I could really consider myself at home or I find a home and I have I'm amazed at how the people are so nice when you talk to them on the phone how nice they are friendly you can tell this saying it with a smile I enjoy working there I tell people ask me where I work at always best care they like what yeah always best care yes it's a nice company sign up with it you won't regret it I'm glad I do it I'm really glad I did”
“I have used quite a few different providers and ABC is by far the best company. From the office staff to the caregivers, they are doing what they love and it shows.”
“Always best care has always been there when I needed them! They make it convenient for me to take care of my father. I most definitely recommend them!”
“Great place to work at very professional and appreciative for their staff”
“Overall a great company to work for! They do a wonderful job recognizing caregivers; from big recognition like a monthly caregiver award and random drawings, to small recognition such as any time you visit the office you are free to grab snacks, beverages, gear and more often than not there is some type of food they have ordered that is available. They really don’t hold back in this area! There has been quite a bit of changes made in office positions within the last year. Response time, outside of the scheduling department, can be improved upon.”
“They really help people when they need it”
“I've had caregivers for about 5 years now. Only having been disappointed and frustrated. Since Always Best Care came into my life, my worries have ended. I never knew if previous caregivers were going to show up, or do what I needed. Everytime they would complete a task, they would sit down and be on their phone. Kari and Jamisha finish a task and right to the next. No problems. My mind has been put at ease. They are very professional yet so so friendly. They ask, what else they can do for me. I also have my ABC emergency call button. Now I have peace of mind if an emergency should arise. My case coordinator Stephanie Stevens. Stays right on top of my case. Thank you so much for making my life easier. I have recommended your company to others that may need assistance in the future.”
“Carole is an excellent caring professional. She has been extremely helpful in advising us and in scheduling care. With respect to the caregivers, we have no complaints. We want to give a special thank you to Rhona for her time and effort in creating a special bond with our mother.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Woodlawn Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local The Carriage House Dining Room or visit The Birdsell Mansion, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in South Bend, IN, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in South Bend, IN understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in South Bend, IN 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
SOUTH BEND — The St. Joseph County Prosecutor's office has identified the now-former deputy prosecutor who reportedly had a romantic relationship with then-St. Joseph County Probate Court Magistrate Aric Rutkowski while she presented child support cases in his courtroom.Sarah Troyer was involved with Rutkowski when she appeared in his court 862 times between June 2021 and December 2022, Rutkowski self-reported ...
SOUTH BEND — The St. Joseph County Prosecutor's office has identified the now-former deputy prosecutor who reportedly had a romantic relationship with then-St. Joseph County Probate Court Magistrate Aric Rutkowski while she presented child support cases in his courtroom.
Sarah Troyer was involved with Rutkowski when she appeared in his court 862 times between June 2021 and December 2022, Rutkowski self-reported to the Indiana Supreme Court judicial commission and eventually to Probate Judge Loris Zappia. Zappia made the situation public in a July 21 press release.
Most of the 862 cases were uncontested hearings, though a few hearings required Rutkowski to make a decision, the prosecutor's office said.
Neither the Probate Court nor the prosecutor's office said how many times Rutkowski ruled in Troyer's favor in cases she presented.
According to the Indiana Roll of Attorneys, Troyer's status as an attorney is active and in good standing.
Troyer is not currently an employee at the St. Joseph County Prosecutor's office. Her last day with the prosecutor's office was Dec. 31, 2022, the prosecutor's office said. Prior to her last day, on Nov. 30, 2022, Troyer informed her supervisor that "it was the best professional decision for her to resign," the prosecutor's office said in a July 22 emailed statement.
During her employment, the prosecutor's office said, they were not aware of her personal relationship with Magistrate Rutkowski — who later resigned from the Probate Court May 29, 2025.
Rutkowski, who was appointed by Judge Peter Nemeth in 2011, oversaw Title IV-D cases involving child support and paternity cases. Title IV-D funding is received by the prosecutor's office and the courts for the collection of child support cases, said Andrea Halpin, chief compliance officer with the St. Joseph County Probate Court. St. Joseph County's Child Support Division is under the prosecutor's office. The prosecutor's office confirmed Troyer appeared in cases involving child support matters.
The Indiana Supreme Court did not comment regarding an investigation into Rutkowski's actions, saying all investigations are confidential. As of July 22, Rutkowski's attorney status in Indiana is active and in good standing.
The prosecutor's office said they agree with Judge Zappia's decision to review the cases in which Troyer appeared before Rutkowski.
"The Prosecutor's Office remains committed to upholding the highest ethical standards and ensuring continued public trust in the judicial system," according to an emailed statement.
The prosecutor's office encourages anyone with concerns about Rutkowski's decisions involving child support matters from June 2021 to December 2022 to contact them at 574-235-9786. If litigants want another judge to review Rutkowski's decision, the prosecutor's office said, it would join in that request to the court.
SOUTH BEND – American Airlines will begin offering bus service Oct. 6 for its passengers between South Bend and Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport.Passeng...
SOUTH BEND – American Airlines will begin offering bus service Oct. 6 for its passengers between South Bend and Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport.
Passengers will book, pay and even board the bus just as they would a flight. In its announcement Tuesday, July 22, South Bend International Airport described the process:
You’ll book your flight as usual, marking South Bend as your departure point. Check in online up to 24 hours beforehand, just like a flight. Check your bags in at South Bend and clear TSA security (your bags will eventually transfer to your flight). Then wait for and board the 35-seat luxury motorcoach with wi-fi and leather seats.
American’s regional partner, The Landline Company, will provide the bus service four times a day in both directions, the South Bend airport said in its press release.
This also adds another direct connection to Chicago. Currently, only United Airlines provides daily flights from South Bend to Chicago, taking passengers to O’Hare.
This marks the third hub that American serves directly from South Bend, according to the airport. Nonstop flights to Charlotte, North Carolina, and Dallas-Fort Worth had begun in June 2018. During the fall football season, American also operates weekend flights from South Bend to New York LaGuardia Airport and to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
American customers can start now to book trips Oct. 6 and afterward using the new bus service. They can earn and use their AAdvantage frequent flier miles on the bus service, South Bend’s press release said.
“We know American Airlines-loyal passengers are driving to O’Hare for flights,” Mike Daigle, CEO and executive director of South Bend airport, said in the press release. “These ‘flights’ offer greater flexibility for all travelers allowing the ability to make use of the drive time doing work or streaming on high-speed Wi-Fi while avoiding the headaches of traffic, parking, and long lines in Chicago.”
“American looks forward to welcoming travelers on this innovative service connecting South Bend with our Chicago O’Hare hub,” Jordan Pack, American’s director of domestic network planning, said in the release.
South Bend Tribune reporter Joseph Dits can be reached at 574-235-6158 or [email protected].
MISHAWAKA ? Tenants have started moving into Springs at Mishawaka, although much of the massive 280-unit, 14-building apartment complex that will include amenities such as a club house, fitness center, pool and dog wash ...
MISHAWAKA ? Tenants have started moving into Springs at Mishawaka, although much of the massive 280-unit, 14-building apartment complex that will include amenities such as a club house, fitness center, pool and dog wash is still under construction.
Tenants started moving into the complex in May, shortly after two of the buildings were completed, said Meagan Kemp, community manager for Wisconsin-based Continental Properties, which is developing the project.
Construction is scheduled to be completed by March 2026, the developers said, noting that the structures are being built sequentially, which allows tenants to move in as they're completed.
The complex, at 2110 Beacon Parkway, is within the Mishawaka city limits, even though it has a Granger postal address.
The total cost of the project is estimated at $43 million, based on when the property connected with the development was annexed into Mishawaka, said Christa Hill, senior planner for the city of Mishawaka.Monthly rent for studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom units will range from about $1,500 to $2,350 as initially estimated, but may go up slightly, the developers have said. Anyone interested in renting at the complex should monitor prices on the Springs at Mishawaka website, where they can also get the latest information about availability and fill out an application, Kemp said.
“We cannot project rent that far into the future, however, we evaluate rent rates on a weekly basis,” she said.
Amenities will include a pool, a clubhouse with a 24-hour fitness center and off-leash dog walk in a fenced-in area. There will also be car-care center for tenants to wash and vacuum their cars, a dog wash, trash pick-up outside private entrances, and 24-hour maintenance on-site.
A parking lot will be on site, but tenants will have the option to rent attached and detached garages within the complex, said Jordan Teichen, development director for Continental Properties, noting that the community will be gated with key fob or buzz-in entry.
Construction of the apartment community began in July 2024 after Continental Properties closed on a 20.43-acre combined parcel purchased from a private owner, which incorporated 13.55 acres annexed from St. Joseph County into Mishawaka. It was combined with an existing 6.88 acres already in Mishawaka.
SOUTH BEND — Former St. Joseph County Magistrate Aric Rutkowski violated the Indiana Code of Misconduct by having a relationship with a St. Joseph County deputy prosecutor while presiding over nearly 1,000 cases she was involved in, the Probate Court said Monday, July 21....
SOUTH BEND — Former St. Joseph County Magistrate Aric Rutkowski violated the Indiana Code of Misconduct by having a relationship with a St. Joseph County deputy prosecutor while presiding over nearly 1,000 cases she was involved in, the Probate Court said Monday, July 21.
Magistrate Aric Rutkowski had a relationship with a St. Joseph County deputy prosecutor involved in cases heard in his courtroom 862 times from June 2021 to December 2022, Probate Judge Loris Zappia announced in a July 21 press release.
The court did not identify the prosecutor involved, referring a Tribune reporter to the St. Joseph County Prosecutor's office, nor did Zappia or his staff shed light on the prosecutor's employment status with the prosecutor's office. Zappia and his staff also did not say how Rutkowski ruled on the cases his romantic partner was involved in.
The court said the prosecutor stopped appearing in Rutkowski's courtroom after December 2022, so they narrowed down the cases searched to that date. The Tribune contacted the prosecutor's office for more information, and a spokesperson said an internal review is underway, and it anticipates releasing more information Tuesday, July 22.
Rutkowski, who was appointed by Judge Peter Nemeth in 2011, oversaw Title IV-D cases involving child support and paternity cases. Title IV-D funding is received by the prosecutor's office and the courts for the collection of child support cases, Andrea Halpin, chief compliance officer with the St. Joseph County Probate Court, said. St. Joseph County's Child Support Division is under the prosecutor's office.
Anyone involved in any of the 862 cases involving the magistrate and deputy prosecutor can opt to seek further review due to a "huge breach of conflict of interest," Halpin said. Zappia was not available for comment, she said.
Halpin told The Tribune on July 21 that Rutkowski recently self-reported the relationship to the Indiana Supreme Court's judicial commission and later told Zappia what he had done, then resigned on May 29, 2025. Zappia appointed Magistrate Rachel Luken to take over Rutkowski's case load, Halpin said.
The cases were all heard before Zappia took office, but neither he nor his staff contend then-Probate Judge Jason Cichowicz — who served from 2019 to 2024 — knew about the relationship, Halpin said.
The Tribune contacted the Indiana Supreme Court to confirm the start date and status of its investigations into Rutkowski's alleged actions but was told all investigations into a judicial officer by the Judicial Qualifications Commission are confidential under Indiana Admission and Discipline Rule 25, Section VIII (B)(I). Rutkowski is an attorney in good standing with the Supreme Court, the court said by email July 21.
During the time between May 29 and July 18 — when the court started sending notices to litigants who may be affected — Zappia contacted the Indiana Supreme Court for guidance on what to do and received notice, Halpin said.
The court conducted an electronic search of the cases in which Rutkowski was on the bench and the prosecutor involved was in the courtroom, finding the relevant 862 cases, Halpin said.
"The magistrate had other cases where the prosecutor was not there, and so we didn't look at those," she said.
The court started sending notices electronically Friday, July 18, and they'll continue being sent through this week, Halpin said. If the court doesn't have the litigant's email, the notice will be mailed or their attorney will be notified as well, she said.
Halpin recommended people who think they have been affected contact an attorney, but she acknowledged many may not be able to afford legal counsel.
The Probate Court provided two resources for those seeking free legal aid: indiana.freelegalanswers.org and inbar.reliaguide.com.
"We wanted to make sure they had someone they can ask and not have to pay for it as well," Halpin said. "But if there's a situation they feel needs to be rectified, the attorney can handle it."
SOUTH BEND — Each month the St. Joseph County Department of Health inspects restaurants, schools, stores and other facilities for unsafe food practices. Inspectors can note an establishment for three types of violations, with "priority" being the most serious health threats.Learn more about the requirements and definitions of each violation by reading the ...
SOUTH BEND — Each month the St. Joseph County Department of Health inspects restaurants, schools, stores and other facilities for unsafe food practices. Inspectors can note an establishment for three types of violations, with "priority" being the most serious health threats.
Learn more about the requirements and definitions of each violation by reading the health code linked in this story at southbendtribune.com.
The Tribune publishes bi-monthly reports on priority violations, along with the corrective measures ordered and/or taken.
The Tribune also publishes which food establishments received no violations of any kind in their inspection.
Seven restaurants or gas stations had priority violations from June 15 to June 30. Restaurants are listed in order of highest amount of priority violations to least. Follow up inspections will be provided after the department conducts a 30-day follow up.
Bendix Restaurant, 4020 Western Ave., South Bend: Three priority violations. In a routine inspection on June 16, it was found that tortilla shells were stored inside grocery style bags in the cook's reach in cooler. The inspector was unable to verify if the bags were safe for food service. Secondly, cooked ground chorizo on a prep table measured at 92 degrees Fahrenheit and cooked ground sausage links near the grill measured at 88 degrees Fahrenheit. According the St. Joseph County 2024 food code, foods must be maintained not less than 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Lastly, two food employees were observed handling raw meat and soiled dishes with bare hands and then put on disposable gloves without washing their hands before the task.
Marathon, 111 E. Ireland Road, South Bend: Three priority violations. In a routine inspection on June 21, it was found that rib tips had an internal temperature of 103 degrees Fahrenheit, when the health code cites food must be maintained no less than 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, rib tips and barbecue sauce were reportedly made at home and there was not hand washing provided for unpackaged food sale.
South Bend Chocolate Company, 126 S. Michigan St., South Bend: Two priority violations. In a routine inspection on June 24, it was found that the maximum temperature at a low temperature chemical ware wash machine was 102 degrees Fahrenheit. According to the health code, a chlorine solution must have a minimum temperature based on the concentration and pH of the solution. For example, a concentration range from 25 to 49 milligrams per liter, with a pH of 10 or less, must have a minimum temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit. A second priority violation was that food employees were seen entering the food prep area and putting gloves on their hands to prepare a sandwich without washing their hands before.
Phillips 66 Burger Dairy, 4023 W. Sample St., South Bend: One priority violation. In a routine inspection on June 16, it was found that cooked red beans and rice with mac and cheese were inside a hot holding device measuring at 101-109 degrees Fahrenheit. According the St. Joseph County 2024 food code, foods must be maintained no less than 135 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pizza Hut, 5113 W. Western Ave., South Bend: One priority violation. In a routine inspection on June 20, it was found that the sanitizer measured approximately 0 to 10 ppm chlorine in the ware washing machine. According the food code, cleaning items for sanitation with chemicals must have a contact time of at least seven seconds for a chlorine solution of 50 ppm that has a pH of 10 or less and a temperature of at least 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Carniceria Los Gallos, 2024 W. Western Ave., South Bend: One priority violation. In a routine inspection on June 24, it was found that the bottle of a chlorine-based sanitizer did instructions, rather was labeled "disinfectant" and was used in the establishment.
Nelsons, located at the Marathon at Ireland Road and Michigan Street: One priority violation. In a routine inspection on June 21, it was found that there was no overhead protection above prep area and unloading area.
Dairy Queen, 1847 Lincoln Way West, South Bend: Zero violations after an inspector visited June 26 regarding a complaint. According to the report, an assistant manager said they are allowed to touch bananas with bare hands since only the peel is being touched and once the fruit is cut half down the middle, the fruit can be pushed out. Employees were shown the code regarding bare hand contact to correct and upon further investigation, all employees used hair nets and did not touch food with bare hands.
Punjabi Rosoi, 131 S. Lafayette Boulevard, South Bend: Zero violations after a June 20 inspection for a 30-day follow up.
Capri Restaurant, 50827 Princess Way, Granger
D Blues Spot & Bistro, 718 Johnson St., South Bend
Leeper Park Tennis Center, 837 N. Lafayette Boulevard, South Bend
Burger Dairy Phillips 66 Food Store, 4023 W. Sample St., South Bend
Swallow Coffee Commissary, 525 N. Eddy St., South Bend
Marathon RS Food Mart, 301 N. Lafayette Boulevard, South Bend
7-Eleven, 910 W. Douglas Road, Mishawaka
Carniceria Los Gallos Food Store, 2024 W. Western Ave, South Bend
Torch Lounge, 1817 S. Michigan St., South Bend
New establishments: Jinya Ramen in South Bend and Mercedeze Rain Chocolates in North Liberty were pre-operational at the time of inspection and received zero violations.
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