Good morning, Elkhart.

The Salvation Army set up its red kettles outside Walmart on County Road 6 — part of its Christmas in July campaign — to raise funds for local needs; the six-day drive began Thursday, Jul.

16 and will help residents in the community.

Elkhart Community Schools has hired Terrence Spencer as its new transportation director.

Spencer brings over a decade of experience from roles with Chicago Public Schools + the Chicago Transit Authority and is expected to lead a safe, efficient transportation system for students.

FEMA will soon arrive in Elkhart County to survey storm damage from June’s severe weather, including an EF-2 tornado.

Governor Mike Braun said the evaluation may lead to a request for a federal disaster declaration (if needed).

Indiana's Utility Regulatory Commission released a 10-page energy affordability report after months of statewide listening sessions, proposing investigations into utility profits and increased customer assistance programs for Hoosiers — with a follow-up conference set for July 27.

Today, First Alert Weather Day warns that Canadian wildfire smoke has left the air unhealthy while southwest winds clear it by this afternoon; scattered storms are expected and a severe storm line with gusts up to 60 mph will form Saturday.

Guys & Dolls Musical Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Lerner Theatre — $19.20 – $34.65 — Enjoy a classic romantic comedy set in the vibrant world of New York City's gamblers and missionaries.

Guys and Dolls

2-5 p.m. — The Lerner Theatre — $19.20 – $34.65 — Enjoy a classic romantic comedy set in New York City with gamblers and missionaries.

Ludacris Concert

8:00 p.m. — Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds — Tickets required — Experience an electrifying evening with hip hop superstar Ludacris at the fairgrounds.

Brett Young Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of country music with Brett Young at a local favorite venue.

Charley Crockett Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds — Tickets available — Enjoy an evening of live music with Charley Crockett at the fairgrounds.

Bluey's Big Play

6-9 p.m. — Morris Performing Arts Center — Ticketed event — Experience Bluey in a vibrant live theatre adaptation with puppets.

Wyatt Marshall Live at Fruit Hills Winery

2-5 p.m. — Fruit Hills Winery & Orchard — Food available from Taste of Caribbean — Enjoy live country music from rising star Wyatt Marshall on the deck.

BBQ & Brew Fest 2026

4-10 p.m. — Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds — $80 adults, $45 designated drivers, $20 students, free for kids under 12 — Enjoy craft beer, burgers, and live music while supporting a great cause.

Leroy Robinson Southern Soul & Soul Music Festival featuring The Bar-Kays

7-10 p.m. — The Lerner Theatre — $64 – $167.10 — Celebrate the legacy of Leroy Robinson with a night of Southern Soul and R&B featuring Lakeside and T.K. Soul.