Welcome to the South Bend News-Times

A publicly supported news magazine that showcases the richness of life in and around South Bend, Indiana

On December 27, 1938, the South Bend News-Times announced the end of its publication run. The news marked the end of South Bend's other newspaper, one that had been in print in one form or another for more than fifty years.

While the News-Times was never the dominant paper in town, it boasted a roster of writers, editors, and cartoonists that were the envy of metropolitan newspapers all over the nation. Ring Lardner came out of the News-Times. So did Charles Butterworth and J.P. McEvoy and John Streibel.

But despite all of that, the newspaper never really recovered from the Great Depression, and after publishing at a loss for several years, owner and editor Joseph Stephenson had no choice but to shut the thing down.

In fall of 2024, we decided to bring it back.

Today, the South Bend News-Times is a monthly digital newsmagazine that showcases the richness of life in and around South Bend. Our writers cover forgotten histories, incredible local figures, fascinating local businesses, and the irresistible day trips that make South Bend such a great place to work, live, and play.

Who writes for the News-Times?

Anyone who wants to. Our roster includes retired journalists, historians, authors, business owners, local politicians, and plenty of passionate individuals who have a story to share.

Approved articles go through a round of editing and approval before landing on our Community Page. Every week, six articles from the Community Page are released as part of our newest News-Time issue.

How can I write for the News-Times?

Reach out through our Contact Page to tell us a little bit about yourself, why you're interested in the region, and what you want to write about. Once your author page is set up and ready to go, you can start submitting articles right away.

How do you pay the bills?

Every article and issue of the South Bend News-Times is completely free, and it always will be. Our work and costs are sustained by voluntary public support. When you tip our writers, or become a sustaining member on our Patreon, you help keep local journalism alive and well.

Are you trying to compete with The Tribune?

Not at all. As a small, weekly, digital publication; we're not even in the same stratosphere as The South Bend Tribune. We don't cover a lot of hard news, and you're not going to find in-depth reporting on Notre Dame football recruiting here. Instead, we're looking to showcase more of the amazing people, places, and histories that make South Bend so rich.

How can I support the News-Times?

There are a lot of ways you can help our work. Write a story for us. Tell a friend about us. Tip our writers or become a sustaining member.

Looking for bigger opportunities? We're looking for sponsors to help offset our webhosting costs. Reach out through our Contact Form if you're interested.