News in Wabash County, IN

GWC to celebrate Wabash County honor students

Thursday, February 26, 2026

Wabash County, IN – Grow Wabash County invites community members to join in celebrating the outstanding academic achievements of Wabash County’s Class of 2026 at the annual Honor Student Luncheon on Thursday, April 9.This year’s luncheon will recognize graduating seniors whose future plans span a variety of fields, including business, animal science, nursing, criminal justice, and other high-demand career paths. A special guest speaker will be announced at a later date.Local businesses and organizations are encouraged to sponsor and attend the event as mentors. Participating mentors will have the opportunity to connect with students, share insights from their professional journeys,...

Wabash County high school students visit Statehouse

Tuesday, March 03, 2026

Wabash County, IN – Grow Wabash County’s county-wide high school entrepreneurship and career focused program brought students to the Indiana Statehouse as part of the AIM (Accelerating Indiana’s Municipalities) Legislative Day Event, giving students an inspiring look at the future of business, entrepreneurship, and career opportunities in Indiana."It was impactful for the students to see the amount of activity at the statehouse. The questions they asked were insightful, and their thirst for more understanding was encouraging. Opportunities like this are vital for the development of our county as these students are our future business owners, governmental leaders and hopefully, residents,"...

A Night at the Wabash Museum Makes Its Highly Anticipated Return

Friday, February 27, 2026

Press release & graphic courtesy of Wabash County MuseumWabash, IN - The Wabash County Museum announces the return of A Night at the Wabash Museum, a members-only event which will take place on Friday, March 13 from 6-8PM. Inspired by the beloved Night at the Museum films, this exclusive after-hours experience will bring history to life with a Wabash County twist—and best of all, it’s completely FREE for Museum members!During this immersive event which is sponsored by Wabash Elks #471, live actors will step into the roles of historical figures from the exhibits, transforming the Museum into a vibrant living...

State of Our Communities leaves audience, leaders energized for what's next

Monday, February 23, 2026

Wabash County, IN (FEB. 23, 2026) – The theme for Grow Wabash County’s sold out ninth annual State of Our Communities event on Thursday, Feb. 19, centered being energized for the future of Wabash County.The community speakers featured were Cheryl Ross from the Wabash County Commissioners, Tracie Hensley from the Town of LaFontaine, Andrew King from the Town of Lagro, Adam Penrod from the Town of North Manchester, Bob Ferguson from the Town of Roann, and Mayor Scott Long from the City of Wabash.Tenille Zartman, president and CEO of Grow Wabash County, emceed the annual event. During her opening remarks,...

Parkview Wabash Hospital selected among Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s Best Places to Work

Tuesday, February 17, 2026

Press release and graphic courtesy of Parkview HealthWABASH, Ind. – Parkview Wabash Hospital was recently named one of the 150 2026 Best Places to Work in Indiana.It’s the fifth time Parkview Wabash has made the statewide Best Places to Work list since 2018 and the second time in the past three years. Parkview Wabash was the only hospital across the state to be recognized on this year’s list.The statewide survey and awards program is designed to evaluate participating organizations and honor those with the highest levels of employee satisfaction and engagement in the workplace. This is the 21st year for...

Wabash County Museum Announces Staff Promotions and Growth

Friday, February 13, 2026

Press release courtesy of Wabash County MuseumWabash, IN -— The Wabash County Museum is proud to announce recent staff promotions that reflect the organization’s continued growth and commitment to cultivating local talent.Among those promoted is Hope Schoening, who has been named Marketing Manager. Hope’s journey with the Museum began in January 2023 when she joined the team as an intern from Wabash High School. Following her graduation, she transitioned into a full-time role as Marketing Coordinator, where she quickly became an integral member of the team. Hope is also a full time college student, attending Indiana University Kokomo.In her new...

NIPSCO accepting applications for 2026 Environmental Action Grant

Tuesday, February 10, 2026

Press release courtesy of NIPSCOLocal organizations seeking funding for environmental initiatives invited to applyMERRILLVILLE, Ind. — Northern Indiana Public Service Company LLC (NIPSCO), with support from the NiSource Charitable Foundation, is currently accepting applications for the 2026 Environmental Action Grant, an annual endowment awarded to local organizations to help fund environmental projects and programming across NIPSCO’s service area.“Being an engaged corporate citizen means caring for the places we call home,” said Rick Calinski, Director of Public Affairs and Economic Development at NIPSCO. “Through our Environmental Action Grant, NIPSCO is proud to invest in local projects that protect natural resources, strengthen...

Hike & Stargazing Experience on sale now

Thursday, February 05, 2026

Press release courtesy of Visit Wabash CountyWabash, IND. - Visit Wabash County officials announce a new outdoor experience. Tickets for Hike and Stargazing will go on sale online (www.visitwabashcounty.com) and in person (Welcome Center, 221 S Miami St, Wabash) on February 10 at noon.Sponsored by The Wabash County Izaak Walton League, Hike and Stargazing experience will take place on Friday, March 20, starting at 7:30 PM and is estimated to last 2 hours. The all-inclusive experience costs $15 per person and includes chili and s’mores at the Izaak Walton League in Somerset. The program is recommended for participants ages 6...

Brubaker family to be celebrated at GWC 2026 Salute to Ag Dinner

Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Wabash County, IN – Grow Wabash County and the Salute to Ag committee are thrilled to announce that the Brubaker family has been selected as the 2025 Farm Family of the Year. The family will be honored at the 2026 Salute to Agriculture Dinner on Wednesday, March 4.The Brubaker family has farmed in North Manchester since 1974. Over the past five-plus decades, the Brubakers have planted and harvested corn and soybeans while also raising hogs. In addition to being a proud Wabash County farm family, the Brubakers are very involved in the community, serving on various boards and committees, and...

Wabash County Celebrates America's 250th Anniversary

Tuesday, January 27, 2026

Press release courtesy of Visit Wabash CountyWabash, Ind. — Wabash County is preparing for a year-long celebration honoring America’s 250th anniversary, featuring a dynamic lineup of festivals, historical tours, engaging family activities, music, and community-wide events throughout 2026. From winter’s eagle watching trolley tours to summer block parties, memorable holiday celebrations, and special exhibits, there’s something for every resident and visitor to enjoy.“We’re thrilled to celebrate this milestone in American history right here in Wabash County,” said Stephanie Rogers, Wabash County Liaison for the 250th Anniversary state-wide celebration. “From the stories of our earliest settlers to the traditions we continue...

IEDA announces 2026 leadership - Zartman joins IEDA executive committee

Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Press release courtesy of Indiana Economic Development AssociationINDIANAPOLIS, IN – At the Indiana Economic Development Association (IEDA) Annual Meeting this December, our community of practitioners came together not just to reflect on a year of progress, but to empower the leaders who will guide our shared mission forward.We are proud to announce the election of our new Board Members and Officers for the upcoming year. These individuals represent the heart of Indiana's economic development profession—bringing diverse expertise from urban centers to rural towns, all united by a single goal: creating opportunity for every Hoosier.“The Indiana Economic Development Association has been...

Meet the Wabash County Historian, Alec Guenin

Friday, January 09, 2026

Press release and photo courtesy of Wabash County Museum.Wabash, In. – As we kick off the new year, the Wabash County Museum invites the community to meet the Official Wabash County Historian, Alec Guenin, appointed by the Indiana Historical Society and the Indiana Historical Bureau.Alec is serving the second year of his three-year term from 2025–2027 as the county’s historian. Indiana County Historians are volunteers officially appointed by the Indiana Historical Society (IHS) and the Indiana Historical Bureau (IHB) to promote local history within their counties, connect individuals and organizations with historical resources, encourage collaboration among local history groups, and...

DWI announces facade grant program

Wednesday, November 12, 2025

Press release courtesy of Downtown Wabash. Inc.WABASH, Ind. – “Downtown Wabash, Inc. is excited to announce a new façade grant program to benefit buildings in in the downtown Historic District,” according to Executive Director Mikka Hunt.The grant may be used to cover one-half (1/2) of expenses incurred for such things as tuck-pointing, painting, signage, lighting, doors, windows, and awnings, up to $10,000.“We have had extraordinary success with façade grant programs in the past,” added board chair Amanda Lopez. “This type of program infuses significant new investment into the downtown Historic District and offers much needed help to property owners working...

WalkerHughes strengthens employee benefits offering with strategic addition of Brady Benefits

Thursday, November 06, 2025

Press release courtesy of WalkerHughes / Brady BenefitsFORT WAYNE, IN – WalkerHughes Insurance (“WalkerHughes”), a privately held, founder-led retail insurance brokerage headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, is pleased to announce the addition of Brady Benefits, a Fort Wayne-based Employee Benefits brokerage, to its growing Midwest platform.Brady Benefits, led by respected industry veteran Matt Brady, specializes in group health and ancillary benefits. The firm brings a strong reputation for service and deep relationships across the Fort Wayne community.“Employee benefits is, at its core, a relationship business built on trust, consistency, and care,” said Matt Brady, founder of Brady Benefits. “WalkerHughes stood out...

First Farmers Bank & Trust Names Alexandria Roberts as New Wabash Branch Manager

Tuesday, November 04, 2025

Press release courtesy of First Farmers Bank & TrustWABASH, Ind. — First Farmers Bank & Trust is proud to announce Alexandria “Alex” Roberts as the new Branch Manager of its Wabash branch.In her new role, Roberts will oversee daily branch operations, lead the local team, ensure regulatory compliance, and maintain a strong focus on customer service and community engagement.Roberts brings more than three years of banking experience and a deep passion for serving her hometown community. A lifelong Wabash resident, she is excited to continue building relationships with local customers and helping them achieve their financial goals.“I have a deep...

Learn More Center Receives $217,282 Grant from Don Wood Foundation to Develop Career Exploration Makerspace

Tuesday, November 04, 2025

Press release courtesy of Learn More CenterWABASH, Ind. – Learn More Center (LMC) is proud to announce it has received a $217,282 grant from the Don Wood Foundation to establish a Career Exploration Makerspace in Wabash County. The new space will serve as an innovative hub for leadership development, entrepreneurship training, and advanced manufacturing career exploration for adult learners across Wabash County and surrounding areas with an ultimate goal of allowing adults to explore all 16 Career Pathways. Learn More Center provides adult education, workforce training, and vocational programs at no cost to its students. Through partnerships with local businesses, educators,...

MetalX and Commonwealth Rolled Products Announce Strategic Partnership to Deliver Differentiated Aluminum Solutions

Friday, October 31, 2025

Press release courtesy of Metal XFort Wayne, IN and Lewisport, KY – MetalX, an independent metals recycling business, and Commonwealth Rolled Products, a leader in aluminum rolled products serving the automotive and industrial markets, today announced the signing of a definitive agreement to form a strategic partnership — marking a significant step forward in advancing integrated and sustainable aluminum solutions. As part of the agreement, MetalX, together with the Rifkin family, will make a meaningful investment in Commonwealth Rolled Products, further aligning two leaders across the aluminum value chain.Based in Lewisport, Kentucky, Commonwealth Rolled Products is a premier producer of...

A New Hub for Adult Education Opens in Wabash

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

The Learn More Center has opened a new adult education facility in Wabash County, designed to meet a growing demand for workforce training, high school equivalency preparation, and career-focused skill development. Classes in the new building began on August 11, with a ribbon-cutting and community open house scheduled for September 25.This facility represents the most comprehensive adult learning site in the county to date. Open four days a week with extended evening hours, it is built to serve 200 students annually, with a goal of 50 to 55 High School Equivalency graduates. Programs include basic literacy and diploma preparation, career...

2025 Annual Dinner celebrates community, business champions

Friday, October 10, 2025

Wabash County, IN – Grow Wabash County hosted its 2025 Annual Dinner Celebration on Thursday, Oct. 9, to celebrate another incredible year of growth in Wabash County and to recognize some of Grow Wabash County’s greatest champions and supporters.The event was emceed by Roderick Schram, who kept the show running smoothly and recognized the many sponsors who made the night’s event possible. Before handing out awards, Grow Wabash County Board Chair, Tod Minnich, highlighted some of the great things happening all over the Wabash County community, thanks in part to the work being done by Grow Wabash County.Following his remarks,...

Help restore the Little Red Caboose: Museum seeks community support

Thursday, October 02, 2025

Release courtesy of Wabash County MuseumWABASH COUNTY, IN __The Wabash County Museum proudly announces the launch of a fundraising campaign to restore the interior of its beloved New York Central Caboose, No. 19480. This 1920s-era caboose has long been a community landmark and centerpiece of the Museum’s educational programming. Now, the Museum is seeking community support to bring the interior back to life.Thanks to a generous 2023 Norfolk Southern Grant, the caboose’s exterior was fully restored. Today, the striking red caboose welcomes thousands of visitors each year and serves as a meeting point for families and friends in downtown Wabash...

Destination Wabash County announces Great March Cleanup

Wednesday, October 01, 2025

Release courtesy of Destination Wabash CountyWabash County, IN – Destination Wabash County is partnering with leaders throughout Wabash County to organize a county-wide roadway and litter clean-up initiative in March 2026. This effort aims to bring together community leaders, organizations, and volunteers to make a visible impact on Wabash County’s roadways, and Republic Services has stepped up to sponsor the initiative.The project idea began after a local group of volunteers cleaned up Hill Street-extended toward Lagro, sparking a larger conversation about how this kind of work could be expanded county-wide. “March is an ideal time to take action: grasses and...

Bridging Generational Divides Strengthens Business Growth in Wabash County

Monday, September 29, 2025

Change is one of the few things that are constant in all aspects of life. And, workplace culture is shifting as more Baby Boomers retire, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z workers replace them. These groups often approach communication, technology, and leadership differently. If businesses ignore these differences, the result can be miscommunication, reduced efficiency, and weaker retention. Multigenerational Teams Drive Business Development When Managed WellFew organizations report confidence in leading intergenerational teams. This leadership gap matters because mismanaged workplace dynamics scale beyond the office. Businesses that fail to integrate younger workers effectively face higher turnover, stalled innovation, and long-term talent...

An Affordable Path to Housing

Monday, July 28, 2025

Modular Homes Offer a Smarter, Faster, More Affordable Path to HousingModular housing is too often misunderstood. When people hear the word “modular,” many picture a mobile home or a shipping container unit. But that’s not what’s on the table. True modular homes are built to the same codes, undergo the same inspections, and are constructed on the same foundations as site-built homes. And in many cases, they’re built stronger, delivered faster, and cost far less.For communities and developers facing tight timelines, zoning constraints, and shrinking budgets, modular construction presents a strategic opportunity, not a compromise.Modular Means Permanent, Customizable Housing That...

Norfolk Southern grants $5,000 to Wabash County Museum in support of community initiatives

Wednesday, July 23, 2025

Release courtesy of Wabash County MuseumWabash, IN — The Wabash County Museum is proud to announce it has received a $5,000 grant from Norfolk Southern through its Thriving Communities Grant Program. The funding will support interior renovations to the museum’s 1920s era New York Central Caboose, with the plan to make it open to the public for the first time ever. The vision for the caboose is to make it accessible to guests of all ages and to incorporate it into field trips for children from across northern Indiana.This grant is part of Norfolk Southern’s commitment to strengthening the communities...

Cold Storage: A Growing Necessity for Agricultural Success

Monday, May 05, 2025

As the agriculture industry continues to evolve to meet the demands of a growing global population, one factor has become increasingly vital to its success: cold storage.While preserving perishable goods at low temperatures has existed for centuries, the scale and sophistication of cold storage solutions have surged dramatically over the past 100 years. This growth calls attention to the indispensable role of temperature-controlled environments in ensuring agricultural products' quality, safety, and longevity.The integration of automation and advanced technologies is revolutionizing the cold storage industry. Innovations such as robotics, cloud-based systems, and energy management solutions are enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring...

Five Main Streets, One County: How Wabash County's Main Street Organizations Are Building Stronger Communities

Friday, April 04, 2025

In a county of just over 30,000 people, having five active and engaged Main Street organizations is nothing short of remarkable. Wabash County, Indiana, stands out among rural communities for its commitment to making its downtown districts a top destination by prioritizing their revitalization and preservation.Through the dedication of the Main Street organizations of Manchester Alive, Downtown Wabash Inc., Roann Main Street, Lagro Main Street, and LaFontaine Main Street, the county has placed itself as a leader in community-driven economic development. These organizations are much more than just advocates for small community downtown aesthetics. They are engines for growth that...

Wabash, IN: A Rising Destination for Business Growth and Quality of Life

Monday, March 24, 2025

Wabash, Indiana, is making waves in the economic development landscape, earning a well-deserved spot on Site Selection Magazine's 2024 Top Micropolitan List. Ranked tied for 39th, it is an impressive jump from its previous tied ranking for 84th. Wabash, IN, continues to prove itself as a booming hub for business expansion and economic opportunity. With three major projects currently in development, this recognition highlights Wabash's growing appeal to businesses looking to invest in a community ready for success.What This Ranking Means for Wabash and BusinessesRecognition on Site Selection Magazine's list emphasizes Wabash's economic vitality and potential for future growth compared...

Why Hiring Interns is One of the Smartest Investments Your Business Can Make

Wednesday, March 05, 2025

Hiring interns delivers measurable returns on investment (ROI) for businesses across all industries. They contribute to productivity while gaining hands-on experience and often introduce fresh ideas that drive innovation. Interns bring enthusiasm and a willingness to learn, making them valuable team members. Plus, hiring interns can reduce long-term hiring and turnover costs by building a pipeline of future employees.Bringing in high school and college interns allows your company to develop talent, delegate meaningful projects, and cultivate future leaders. If you haven’t considered an internship program, now is the time to start.The ROI of Hiring InternsInterns don't have to be temporary...

Growing Leaders in Agriculture: Heartland Career Center's Precision Agriculture Program

Thursday, February 13, 2025

Heartland Career Center's Precision Agriculture Program students are learning in-demand skills, ready to start their agriculture career. From learning to pilot a drone of acres of farmland, collect data to optimize crop yields and install GPS technology on farming equipment to boost efficiency, students leave the program with the ability to start working immediately after graduation. This innovative, two-year program is shaping the next generation of agricultural leaders and meeting critical industry needs in Wabash County, IN. "The Precision Ag Program is proud to partner with local businesses, growers, and educators to shape the future of agriculture," said Lori DuBois, Precision...

Tariff 101: The What, How, and the Potential Impact of Tariffs on Wabash County, IN

Friday, December 20, 2024

Tariffs are often discussed in the context of global trade wars and national economies, but their widespread use has the potential to impact local communities. Understanding tariffs, how they work, and their local effects is vital for business owners, consumers, and community leaders to help provide for the potential repercussions if implemented by the incoming administration.What Are Tariffs and Who Pays for Them?At their core, tariffs are taxes imposed on imported goods, paid by the importing businesses to their home government, like the United States. While tariffs can serve as a tool to protect domestic industries or counter unfair trade practices,...

Lt. Gov. Crouch, OCRA announce two 2024 Stellar Pathways designated communities

Tuesday, December 17, 2024

Press release courtesy of Indiana Office of Community and Rural AffairsINDIANAPOLIS (Dec. 17, 2024) – Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch and the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs today announced Dearborn County and Wabash County as the 2024 Stellar Pathways designated communities.The Stellar Pathways program is a multi-year, multi-million-dollar initiative led by OCRA. The program works with communities in a self-determined region on a shared vision for community and economic development. Stellar Pathways aims to promote local and regional partnerships and assists in implementing sustainable solutions to challenges Indiana’s rural communities face."The Stellar Pathways program is yet another way OCRA...

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