Notre Dame's Hometown Hero Shines: Jackie Young Dazzles in Triumphant Return In a spectacular homecoming performance, Las Vegas Aces star Jackie Young electrified Purcell Pavilion, scoring a game-high 28 points during a thrilling WNBA exhibition match. The Notre Dame alumna returned to her collegiate home court, delivering a masterclass performance that left fans and teammates in awe. Young, who previously dominated the court as a Fighting Irish standout, showcased her exceptional skills and hometown pride, effortlessly leading her team to a commanding victory. Her remarkable scoring prowess and connection to the venue created an unforgettable moment for basketball enthusiasts and Notre Dame supporters alike. The exhibition game not only highlighted Young's incredible talent but also celebrated her journey from a celebrated college athlete to a professional WNBA sensation, proving that her roots in South Bend continue to fuel her remarkable basketball career. MORE...

At just 12 years old, Mariell Neff has transformed her passion for poultry into a thriving small business. Working side by side with her father, she carefully constructed a charming roadside egg stand that now serves her local community. With dedication and care, Mariell tends to her flock of hens, collecting fresh eggs and learning valuable entrepreneurial skills along the way. Her stand is more than just a simple sales point; it's a testament to her hard work and family collaboration. Each egg represents hours of nurturing, from feeding and caring for her chickens to meticulously preparing them for sale. Neighbors and local residents have come to appreciate not just the quality of her farm-fresh eggs, but also the young entrepreneur's spirit and commitment. What began as a family project has blossomed into a meaningful venture that teaches Mariell important lessons about responsibility, business management, and the rewards of agricultural work. Her egg stand stands as a proud symbol of youthful initiative and the timeless connection between hard work and success. MORE...

Creativity and Entrepreneurship Collide: Students Transform The Bay into a Vibrant Marketplace The recent May Art and Thrift event at The Bay was a spectacular showcase of student innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. Young entrepreneurs enthusiastically set up their own small businesses, transforming the venue into a bustling marketplace of artistic expression and commerce. Visitors were treated to an impressive array of handcrafted goods, with students displaying their unique talents through diverse product offerings. Stylish custom-designed shirts hung alongside intricate handmade jewelry, while beautifully framed photography captured the imagination of art enthusiasts and potential customers alike. This event not only provided students with a platform to monetize their creativity but also offered valuable real-world experience in business management, marketing, and customer interaction. The energy was palpable as young entrepreneurs passionately presented their carefully crafted products, demonstrating remarkable skill and entrepreneurial potential. MORE...

Subway's Domestic Footprint Shrinks: A Milestone of Transformation In a significant shift for the sandwich industry, Subway has experienced a landmark moment, dropping below 20,000 domestic locations for the first time in two decades. Despite this contraction in the United States, the global sandwich chain continues to expand its international presence, demonstrating remarkable resilience and strategic adaptation. This milestone reflects the brand's ongoing transformation, navigating challenging market conditions and evolving consumer preferences. While the reduction in domestic stores might seem concerning, it also signals Subway's commitment to streamlining operations and focusing on quality over quantity. The company's international growth remains robust, highlighting its global appeal and ability to connect with diverse markets beyond its home territory. This strategic approach suggests Subway is carefully recalibrating its domestic strategy while maintaining strong momentum on the world stage. MORE...

Flavor Runs in the Family: Local Sauce Makers Spice Up Culinary Traditions In the heart of our community, a family-owned sauce and seasoning business is proving that passion and creativity can transform ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary experiences. What started as a cherished family recipe has blossomed into a thriving enterprise that celebrates the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Founded by generations of food lovers, this local company has turned their kitchen experiments into a successful brand that captures the essence of home-cooked comfort with a bold, innovative twist. Each bottle tells a story of family heritage, carefully crafted recipes, and a commitment to bringing excitement to dining tables across the region. From tangy marinades to fiery hot sauces, their product line reflects the family's diverse culinary background and their love for creating memorable taste experiences. What sets them apart is not just the quality of their seasonings, but the warmth and tradition that infuse every single product. As they continue to grow and expand, this local sauce company remains true to its roots - a testament to the power of family, flavor, and the joy of sharing delicious food with the world. MORE...

In the complex world of international trade, small business owners like Jossie Lukacik are navigating challenging waters as tariffs reshape their business strategies. Lukacik, a seasoned entrepreneur, has been forced to adapt her approach in response to the ever-changing economic landscape. The impact of tariffs has been far-reaching for her business, compelling her to make strategic decisions that go beyond traditional supply chain management. She's had to become increasingly creative, carefully weighing each purchasing and pricing decision to maintain her competitive edge. "These tariffs aren't just numbers on a spreadsheet," Lukacik explains. "They're real challenges that require innovative solutions and careful financial planning." Her experience reflects the broader struggle many small business owners face in an increasingly complex global marketplace. By rethinking her sourcing strategies, negotiating with suppliers, and potentially adjusting her product pricing, Lukacik demonstrates the resilience and adaptability required to thrive in today's unpredictable economic environment. Her story is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that finds opportunity even in challenging circumstances. MORE...

In a decisive legal rebuke, U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell has firmly rejected President Donald Trump's executive order targeting Perkins Coie, a prominent law firm. The judge went further than a simple legal ruling, describing the administration's attempt to penalize the firm as "cringe-worthy" - a sharp criticism that underscores the perceived weakness of the executive order. Judge Howell's ruling not only blocks the president's order but also sends a clear message about the limits of executive power when it comes to targeting legal professionals. By characterizing the effort as embarrassingly misguided, she highlighted the potentially retaliatory nature of the executive action against Perkins Coie, a firm known for its significant role in Democratic legal strategies. The decision represents a significant legal setback for the Trump administration and reinforces judicial independence in the face of what the judge apparently viewed as an inappropriate attempt to intimidate legal professionals. MORE...

Focus at Four: THC Regulations Reshape Local Business Landscape

In a sweeping move that's sending ripples through the local cannabis industry, new legislative measures are dramatically tightening regulations on THC products. These changes are not just bureaucratic tweaks, but a comprehensive overhaul that promises to fundamentally transform how businesses operate in the cannabis marketplace.

The proposed bill targets multiple aspects of THC production, distribution, and sales, introducing stricter testing protocols, more rigorous packaging requirements, and enhanced tracking mechanisms. Local dispensary owners and cannabis entrepreneurs are finding themselves navigating a rapidly evolving regulatory environment that demands unprecedented levels of compliance.

Key provisions of the bill include mandatory third-party lab testing for potency and contaminants, more detailed product labeling, and enhanced age verification processes. These regulations aim to ensure consumer safety while simultaneously creating a more transparent and accountable cannabis market.

Small businesses are feeling the most significant impact. The increased compliance costs and complex regulatory framework could potentially squeeze out smaller players who lack the resources to quickly adapt to these new standards. Larger, more established cannabis companies appear better positioned to weather these regulatory changes.

As the industry continues to evolve, stakeholders are closely watching how these new regulations will reshape the local cannabis ecosystem. One thing remains clear: the days of loosely regulated THC markets are quickly becoming a thing of the past.

A local business owner is fighting back against Denver's proposed land acquisition, warning that the city's plan could spell financial ruin for his long-standing recycling facility and food bank. The potential seizure threatens to dismantle a critical community resource that has served the area for years. The owner, who has built his business from the ground up, argues that the city's eminent domain move would effectively destroy his livelihood. By targeting a key portion of his property, Denver's plan could force him to shut down operations that provide essential recycling services and support for local food insecurity. This potential land grab highlights the delicate balance between urban development and small business survival. The facility owner emphasizes that his operation is more than just a business—it's a vital community service that supports local residents through recycling efforts and food assistance programs. As the dispute unfolds, questions arise about the city's priorities and the potential collateral damage to small businesses and community resources. The owner remains determined to fight the proposed acquisition, hoping to preserve both his business and the critical services it provides to the Denver community. MORE...

Pushed to the Limit: Local Business Owner's Shocking Struggle with Repeated Break-Ins In a heart-wrenching tale of resilience and frustration, a local business owner is speaking out after enduring an unimaginable series of break-ins that have tested the very limits of his patience and determination. Over the past three years, this entrepreneur has been forced to witness his business targeted by thieves not once, not twice, but an astounding 11 times. Each invasion represents more than just a financial loss—it's a personal violation that strikes at the heart of his hard-earned dream. The repeated attacks have left him not just financially drained, but emotionally exhausted. Despite the overwhelming challenges, he refuses to be defeated, choosing instead to speak out and draw attention to the persistent criminal activity plaguing his establishment. His story is a stark reminder of the challenges small business owners face, battling not just economic uncertainties, but also the constant threat of criminal activity. With each break-in, his resolve seems to grow stronger, transforming his narrative from one of victimhood to one of unwavering resilience. Local authorities have been notified, and the community watches with growing concern and support for this determined business owner who continues to stand firm in the face of repeated adversity. MORE...