Naomi Ludman, chair of the Cass County Democratic Party, writes, "Our representative democracy only works when we all believe it works based on our lived experiences. This is one reason that many disillusioned voters are turning to Ranked Choice Voting."
The event, themed “Shine a Light on Domestic Violence,” aims to raise awareness, foster community support, and honor those who have lost their lives or been impacted by domestic violence in St. Joseph and Cass counties. Community members are invited to join in lighting candles in remembrance of victims and in solidarity with survivors and their families.
The proposal asks voters to renew a 0.9-mill property tax for five years, from January 2026 through December 2030, to fund county emergency communication services. The measure represents a decrease from the current rate, which expires at the end of 2025, and would generate $0.90 for every $1,000 of a property’s taxable value, according to St. Joseph County Central Dispatch.
Co-organizer Dan Moyle said the group hopes to focus on shared values rather than political divisions. “This time we want to do more than say what we’re against,” Moyle said. “We want to promote what we’re for: freedom and dignity for every person, love of our neighbors, and hope for a better future.”
The gift, presented to SACF Executive Director Lindsay Aguilar on October 1 during GT Week — the company’s annual celebration — will help support the foundation’s work in meeting critical needs across the community.
Among the most requested programs this year has been People Leadership — a series of professional development workshops that equip supervisors with tools for performance planning, coaching and counseling, communication, career development and team building.
The foundation has awarded $200,000 in grant funding to the St. Joseph County United Way in support of its Capital Campaign to build a new facility in Centreville. United Way Executive Director Kelly Hostetler said funding for the new building will come solely from the capital campaign, separate from United Way’s annual fundraising efforts.
The event is free and open to the public. Food and merchandise will be available for purchase. Donations will also be accepted throughout the day to benefit Affinity House, a St. Joseph County nonprofit dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and providing local resources.
The Oster Award is presented annually to a teacher in the Sturgis Public School District who exemplifies exceptional teaching standards, professional dedication, and extraordinary service to the Sturgis community.
Project Connect aims to assist low-income families, veterans, and people experiencing homelessness in St. Joseph County.
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