Melissa Stephens
Multimedia Journalist
South Bend, IN
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Melissa grew up in Chicago and earned her bachelor's degree at Columbia College Chicago.
She loves working for WNDU and telling stories for the people of Michiana.
During her free time, you can find her trying out new recipes, binge watching favorite Netflix shows or spending time at the pool.
The Potawatomi Zoo will host Winter Days on Saturday, January 23.
There is a new restaurant inside the Dainty Maid building in downtown South Bend.
The Food Bank of Northern Indiana has been a rock for so many families during the pandemic, and they saw record numbers in 2020.
While there is usually a breakfast at the Century Center, vendors, and a march, events took place on Zoom because of the pandemic.
If eating healthy food is your goal for 2021, Chef April Howell from Martin’s School of Cooking shared some tips on sticking to that goal.
Swiss Valley Ski & Snowboard Area opened for the season at the end of December, and 16 Morning News Now stopped by on Wednesday to get an update on how things are going.
Nothing says winter like throwing on a pair of skates and hitting the ice.
The month serves as a time to honor donors for saving lives, and to also encourage others to donate blood and platelets.
16 Morning News Now got a look inside the new restaurant Friday morning.
Located right in downtown Cassopolis, Michigan, the small business sells hand-crafted items from local artists.
As we start the new year, fire officials are making sure you and your family stay safe inside your home.
Fitness instructors at the Niles-Buchanan YMCA joined 16 Morning News Now to share some easy ways you can exercise from the comfort of your home.
The city of Niles is supporting restaurants during the Michigan coronavirus restrictions with an outdoor dining experience.
On this New Year's Eve, police are reminding those celebrating not to drink and drive.
The snow and freezing rain from overnight left the roads messy Wednesday morning.
The first two COVID-19 vaccine has been granted Emergency Use Authorization by the Food and Drug Administration. Both are MRNA vaccines – a new type of vaccine technology.
The National New York Central Railroad Museum in Elkhart is offering some fun activities for the family during Christmas break.
Vendors are selling plenty of unique items including hand-made candies, soaps, mittens and more.
It's been a family tradition for decades - driving through Winding Brook Park in Mishawaka, looking at the Christmas lights.
Owner Anna Helmer started baking from her kitchen a few months ago and says the support from the community has been great.
The Holiday Lights Extravaganza week wrapped up Friday on 16 Morning News Now with a visit to the Carter home in Benton Harbor.
The Holiday Lights Extravaganza week continues 16 Morning News Now. All week, Michiana homes with impressive lights displays will be featured.
The Holiday Lights Extravaganza Week is underway on 16 Morning News Now. All week, Michiana homes with impressive lights displays will be featured.
The Holiday Lights Extravaganza Week is underway on 16 Morning News Now. All week, Michiana homes with impressive lights displays will be featured.
The event has been very popular since opening weekend, and tickets have been selling out quickly.
The Kroc Center is making sure everyone can learn how to swim this winter.
Goshen Brewing Company is adjusting to the pandemic in a creative way.
It all starts with having a good tree stand with a bowl that can hold at least a gallon of water.
The old spot on Elm Road is now closed, and the new site is located inside the St. Joseph County 4H Fairgrounds.
The Potawatomi Zoo will continue celebrating the holiday season with the Gift of Lights this weekend.
The tree is decorated with star ornaments with wish list items written on them from teachers at different schools in the city.
The local business is considered doggie heaven, with boarding, daycare, and grooming options.
It’s always a good idea to do what you can to stay healthy during cold and flu season – especially in the midst of a pandemic.
The ice trail and pond at Howard Park opened for the season on Friday.
As we head into the winter months, first responders are giving some reminders on preventing fires.
If you're looking to get in the holiday spirit while staying safe, then head to Shipshewana.
You can enjoy some holiday cheer and help support local businesses in St. Joseph, Michigan.
The South Bend Police Department and FOP 36 are hosting a food drive for Thanksgiving.
As Michigan's new COVID-19 restrictions went into effect on Wednesday, local businesses weighed in on the changes.
The Humane Society of Elkhart County is waiving all adoption fees during the month of November with the donation of a new, unwrapped toy.
Cultivate Food Rescue is making sure every family has a meal to put on the table this Thanksgiving.
A local salad shop is preparing to open its doors next week with a special piece of art on the side of its building.
Local veterans gathered Wednesday morning for a special workout at Anytime Fitness in Mishawaka.
During the month of November, $2 from every Lauber Burger purchased will go directly to YSB.
You can bid on athletic memorabilia items from Elkhart Memorial and Elkhart Central High School.
In the 8 years of the tournament, more than $56,000 has been raised and 1,500 toys collected.
Congresswoman Walorski joined 16 Morning News Now to talk about her next steps, and the presidential race.
Fifteen restaurants are offering specials and value-priced menus throughout the whole month of November.
Halloween is Saturday, and first responders are giving safety reminders ahead of the holiday.
The holidays are quickly approaching, which means the Salvation Army Kroc Center needs bell ringers for the Red Kettle Campaign.