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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,...

Mocha Shine to celebrate grand opening March 17

Thursday, March 05, 2026

Wabash County, IN – Grow Wabash County is thrilled to welcome Mocha Shine to the community with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, March 17.“We are grateful to the Weaver family for their continued innovation and investment in our community, and we are thrilled to celebrate the upcoming ribbon cutting for Mocha Shine,” Tenille Zartman, president and CEO of Grow Wabash County, said. “This family-owned business brings fresh energy and unique offerings to Wabash County. With fun perks like complimentary coffee, ice cream, or even a dog wash with a single purchase car wash, along with appealing membership deals, Mocha Shine...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...