appsadmin, Author at SBVPA

New Traditions

In the strange new landscape of our world, more and more are rethinking how social interactions happen whether it’s going to work, out shopping or even for a walk outside. As a result, many engaged couples are having to scale back and consider alternative options. With some creativity and flexibility, there are still ways for […]

Into the Woods

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic when our access to so many places has been limited, the ability to go outdoors and enjoy nature has been highly valuable. PARKS AND TRAILS HAVE BECOME PLACES OF REFUGE FOR THOSE NEEDING A BREAK FROM THE STRESSES AND MONOTONY OF BEING IN ONE PLACE DAY AFTER DAY. As we continue […]

Chill Out: How to Relax Amid a Stressful Season

It’s nearly impossible to be stress-free at a time when the world seems to be in complete chaos. Rather than binge watch yet another show on Netflix, our minds and bodies need moments to process, relax and escape. A simple breathing exercise, meditation technique or yoga pose can re-invigorate the spirit and lead to fresh […]

Welcome Back Winter

Our homes aren’t just homes anymore. They’re hosts to date nights on the couch, Zoom meetings from the dining room and classrooms from the kitchen counters. Toss that with the thick of winter when dark, dreary days seem to never end…and you’ve got a recipe for pent up energy! To get you and your family […]

Park People

story by JESSICA SPOOR As many Americans secluded themselves to their homes amid this historic worldwide pandemic, many have continued to set their alarms and head off to work. Celebrated essential workers have been the frontline faces as hospital workers, grocery clerks and daycare teachers; however, the invisible essential worker has risen to the surface. […]

Digital Detox

BACK TO BASICS: THE LOST ART OF BEING OUTSIDE Phone, keys, wallet. That’s the mantra when leaving the house for millions of Americans who are all connected to the ever-growing digital space. According to Pew Research Center in 2019, 81% of Americans own a smartphone. That means almost 300 million Americans have access to the […]

Celebrating Inclusivity Through Baseball

THE CORE VALUE OF MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL IS COMMUNITY and the South Bend Cubs are working harder than ever to be sure the community is stronger and more inclusive. As one of the most beloved and well-attended experiences in the area, inclusivity is more important than ever before. As part of Minor League Baseball’s Copa […]

Where the Wild Things Are

“WE WANT VISITORS TO ASK QUESTIONS AND LEARN. THE MORE PEOPLE CARE ABOUT THE ANIMALS WE HAVE IN THE ZOO, THE MORE THEY WILL CARE ABOUT THEM IN THE WILD TOO.” You don’t have to be a certain age to enjoy the zoo. In fact, the Potawatomi Zoo is one of the most visited destinations […]

Cooking at Home with Martin’s & VPA

Download a printable version of these recipes here. Stuck at Home Thumbprints Yield: 32 cookies Level: Easy Total: 45 min Prep: 20 min Cook: 25 min Ingredients 3/4 pound (3 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature 1 cup sugar 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 3 1/2 cups flour 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1 egg beaten […]

A Peek Behind the Curtain

If you’ve ever been downtown around the Morris Performing Arts Center, you’ve probably seen the marquee lit up and the bustle of excitement just before a show is about to begin. However, putting on a show at the Morris is much more than setting up a few speakers. Behind-the-scenes you’ll find Kyle Miller, Production Manager at […]

Skate-It-Forward at Howard Park

What exactly is Skate-it-Forward? Driven by equality among our residents, the Skate-it-Forward program is designed to make sure every resident has full access to our park amenities regardless of personal circumstances. The Skate-it-Forward program is a powerful initiative where every patron of Howard Park will be a changemaker by advancing these equity goals and provide access […]

A Changing Landscape

Boomer Introduced earlier this year, Boomer has reactivated neighborhood parks throughout South Bend. The impact of this program has seen a multitude of partnerships and neighborhood awareness. Over 2,500 people have attended a Boomer event so far, with more to follow throughout the upcoming months. Neighborhood Parks As part of the My SB Parks & […]