News
Idyl Wyld Announces June Events
View the June calendar featuring open skate sessions, lessons, parties, and special events.
MFD Fire Prevention Chief Brandon Eckstein Retires after 20 Years of Service
MFD Fire Prevention Chief Brandon Eckstein Retires after 20 Years of ServiceShareemailfacebooklinkedin Jun 1, 2026 | Web Administrator Fire Prevention Chief Brandon Eckstein is retiring after 20 years of service with the Marion Fire Department. The Marion native called home to many places including overseas while his father served in the military, then settled in Tennessee for a few years before returning to Grant County, IN. Eckstein graduated from Mississinewa High School in
Surf Internet Honored with Fiber Broadband Association’s 2026 Star Award
Surf Internet representatives accept the 2026 Star Award during the Fiber Broadband Association’s Fiber Connect conference in Orlando, Florida. Pictured from left are FBA President and CEO Gary Bolton and Surf Internet team members Gene Crusie, Kevin Bush, Mary Moran, and Amber Rodriguez. National recognition highlights Surf’s leadership in expanding fiber broadband in rural communities ELKHART, Ind. (May 26, 2026) – Surf Internet® received the Fiber Broadband Association’s (FBA) 2026 Star Award during
How Marion Works Featuring Sherry Loshnowsky of Marion Utilities
In Season 2, Episode 10 of How Marion Works, we pull back the curtain on local infrastructure with Sherry Loshnowsky, the Communications Specialist with Marion Utilities. Listen to the full episode here.
Wiley Metal Hires 8 Interns for Full-Time Positions
Wiley Metal is proud to announce that eight of the eleven students who participated in the Wiley Metal Internship Program during the 2025–2026 school year have accepted full-time summer positions with the company. Over the course of the school year, participating high school students contributed a combined 2,031 internship hours, marking the first full year of a collaborative internship partnership between Wiley Metal, the Grant Regional Career Center, and Watch Us Academy. Through innovative
The Legends, the Legacies, and the Heart Presentation
On Saturday, June 20 at 1:00 PM, Torianna McNair will present “The Legends, the Legacies, the Heart: Black History Stories in Our Chronicle-Tribune Photo Collection.” McNair will share a selection of stories found in her research of Black history photographs in the History Center's Chronicle-Tribune photo collection. This event will be hosted in the Forrest Room, located on the third floor of the History Center.
Cox Honored with John Niederman Rural Development Leadership Award for 20 Years of Dedicated Service
The Affordable Housing Corporation is proud to celebrate Lorri Cox for receiving the John Niederman Rural Development Leadership Award at the Prosperity Indiana 2026 Summit. Cox was honored for her 20 years of dedicated service through the Affordable Housing Corporation and her lasting impact on the Grant County community through housing and rural development efforts. The John Niederman Rural Development Leadership Award recognizes outstanding leaders in the field of community economic development who
Art Class Creates Metal Sculptures for New Mini Golf Course
Artwork created by an IU Kokomo sculpture class enhances the experience of local mini golfers at the newly opened Kokomo Little Links. Students in a sculpture class led by Gregory Steel, professor of fine arts, created two large-scale metal sculptures for the miniature golf course, built in Cutler Park and operated by Bridges Outreach. The first, titled Bridge, includes three metal pillars that will be connected by steel cables when the cables arrive. The second, Putt, represents a putter and ball, and
Duncan Completes Historic Triple Crown with Discus National Title at NAIA Outdoor Championships
IU Kokomo junior thrower Sydney Duncan continued one of the most dominant weeks in program history Friday afternoon, capturing the discus national championship at the 2026 NAIA Outdoor Track & Field National Championships, hosted by University of North Carolina at Asheville. With the victory, Duncan becomes just the second female athlete in NAIA history to sweep the hammer throw, shot put, and discus national championships in the same week. The discus title also marked her third national championship
United Way of Grant County Invites Community to Join Day of Action in 2026
Superhero Camp Returns This Summer to Help Kids Build Resilience, Confidence, and Emotional Well-Being
Community invited to volunteer, sponsor, and support the 10th year of free programming MARION, Ind. — This summer marks a major milestone as Superhero Camp celebrates its 10th year of helping children discover the strengths they already carry inside themselves. Hosted by Lark’s Song, Superhero Camp is a free five-day experience designed to help children build emotional intelligence, resilience, confidence, and practical tools for navigating life’s challenges. Through stories, music, movement, time in
Marion Arts Commission Presents Gather at 202: An Outdoor Concert Series
Marion Arts Commission is thrilled to introduce our brand new summer concert series, Gather At 202, kicking off at Penrod Plaza! Through the support of the Indiana Arts Commission, every Friday night we’re bringing you great tunes, good community vibes, and the perfect excuse to kick off your weekend right. High volume, low maintenance—just the way summer should be. Here is everything you need to know to lock it into your calendar: THE DETAILSWhen: Friday Evenings | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PMDates: May 22nd
Cougars claim four honors at inaugural IU Regional Campus Athletic Awards Celebration
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. —Student-athletes from Indiana University Kokomo claimed four of the six awards given at theinaugural IU Regional Campus Athletics Awards Celebration. The brought together the top student-athletes, coaches, and teams from across five IU regional campuses — IU Kokomo, IU East, IU Northwest, IU South Bend, and IU Southeast — to recognize excellence in athletics, academics, leadership, character, and campus involvement throughout the 2025-26 academic year.IU KOKOMO HONOREESCareer
Graduates showcase their college journeys with mortarboard decor
KOKOMO, Ind. — A lot of late-night study sessions made Brandon Maish’s Indiana University Kokomo degree possible. As he celebrated Commencement Thursday with his classmates, he commemorated his journey to degrees in history and political science, and criminal justice, by decorating his mortarboard, or cap, making it uniquely his in a sea of black-robed graduates. He was one of many in the more than 400 graduates who showed off their creativity by sporting unique decorations, ranging from flowers to
Upland Community Market Kicks off May 22nd and Runs Through October
Join us on May 22nd for the first Upland Community Market of 2026. Pappie's Smokehouse and Los Compadres will be serving up some of their most popular dishes!
State Approves Marion School Board's New Election Districts
State approves Marion School Board’s new election districts The state has approved an amended organization plan for the Marion Community Schools Board of School Trustees that changes the way its members are elected. On October 28, 2025, the Marion School Board voted to adopt the plan. After completing all legal requirements, the plan was submitted to the Indiana State Board of Education for approval. The SBOE approved the plan on May 13, 2026. This means that candidates filing for election in fall
Indiana Michigan Power Releases New Bill Support Center
I&M has launched a new Bill Support Center designed to give customers clearer, easier access to information about their electric bills, rate options, and available programs to help manage energy costs. The Bill Support Center is a one‑stop shop for residential customers across our service territory. It brings together tools and resources to answer common questions such as what’s included in their bill, whether rates have changed and why, and what options are available if a bill is higher than
HMW Standout Business Episode: Tyler & Abby Hewitt of Ashley's Ice Cream Cafe
What happens when you mix a passion for speed with a love for local flavor? In this episode, we’re joined by Tyler and Abby Hewitt, the powerhouse co-owners of Ashley's Ice Cream Cafe. We dive into their journey of entrepreneurship, from balancing the fast-paced world of racing to building a beloved local staple that serves up more than just sweet treats. Hear the story of how they’ve grown their business while keeping community and family at the heart of everything they do. It’s an inspiring
VITA Hosting Taco Tuesday Lunch & Learns
December grad overcomes obstacles to earn dental school admission
KOKOMO, Ind. — As Gracie McClain’s parents drove her to an emergency room, she couldn’t help but think her lifelong dream of becoming a dentist was gone. “It was really scary,” she said. “I temporarily lost my ability to speak properly. Everything that came out of my mouth was gibberish, and I couldn’t see very well. It was a very unusual experience.” McClain, who was 17 at the time, learned within a few days she’d had a stroke. Luckily, it didn’t have long-term effects — and did not keep her from
NMAT Students Create Logo for Local Not-for-profit Science Fair
KOKOMO, Ind. — When the 63rd annual Howard County Science Fair takes place in February 2027, it will include a new logo created by an Indiana University Kokomo student. Erika Creighton’s design was chosen from eight submitted by students in the Identity, Design, and Branding class taught by Michael Koerner, associate professor of new media, who said the project mimicked the competitive process students might experience as graphic design artists, and allowed them to practice what they’ve learned during
Women In Faith Mission Fundraiser
New or gently used shoes (men's, women's, and children's) are being collected through June 15. This fundraiser provides funds for local missions, and more importantly, the shoes collected are used globally in under-resourced countries for people to start micro-businesses. Shoes can be dropped off at First United Methodist Church in downtown Marion (7th & Adams Streets). Look for designated locations in the Narthex and Fellowship Hall. At the end of the campaign, we will BLESS them before sending them to
Larson to Take Lead for Marion High School Athletics
Marion High School’s next athletic director is a familiar face, as he has been a part of the MHS staff for many years. Nate Larson will take the reins for MHS athletics, building on his experience as a teacher and a coach. The Marion Community Schools Board of School Trustees approved his hiring as Marion High School athletic director at their regular meeting on April 28. He will start in this new position July 1. “I am truly honored to serve as the new Athletic Director at Marion High
Marion High School Alumni Association Honors Scholarship Recipients
Marion High School Alumni Association is pleased to announce 45 scholarship awards totaling more than $37,000 for 20 outstanding Marion High School graduating seniors! MHSAA is proud to note that this is another record-setting amount, and it includes two new scholarships awarded for the first time this year. MHSAA is grateful for our collaborative relationship with Marion Community Schools and the community, which enables us to help provide excellent opportunities for Marion students! The following
Steps of Honor Veterans Walk
STEPS OF HONOR VETERANS WALK Join us for Steps of Honor, a community walk honoring the men and women who served our country Saturday, November 7 Mississinewa High School Track HONOR SPONSOR $1,000Limited availabilityLarge logo on event shirtsEvent signageSocial media recognition5 registrations PATRIOT SPONSOR $500Business name on event shirtsEvent signageSocial media recognition3 registrations VENDOR BOOTH $50Table spaceConnect with the communityLimited availability All proceeds benefit local
Radiant Health to Host Free ''Mental Health Matters'' Event for Youth and Families
[Marion, IN – 4/16/26] Radiant Health will host Mental Health Matters, presented by TJR Group, on Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Gardens of Matter Park. This is a free community event focused on supporting youth mental wellness and overall well-being. Designed for youth of all ages and their families, the event will feature engaging, hands-on activities that help young people build emotional self-regulation, learn healthy coping strategies, and strengthen their overall well-being.
McCulloch Junior High Invites Community Professionals to Participate in Career Day
Marion, IN — McCulloch Junior High School is inviting community members to participate in its upcoming Career Day on May 15, 2026, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM.The event will include four 20-minute sessions scheduled throughout the morning, giving students the opportunity to learn about a variety of career paths and gain insight into the education, skills, and experiences needed to achieve their goals."Our students are eager to learn about a variety of career paths and gain insight into the education, skills,
Cory Simon Named Greater Fort Wane Business Weekly's 40 Under 40
Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling proudly recognizes Cory Simon for being named to Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2026, honoring emerging leaders making an impact across Northeast Indiana. Cory, who serves as the Hiring Consultant at Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling, was recognized last week for his leadership, professional achievements, and commitment to the community.
Formal Tea at the Mansion
Celebrate the ladies, both young and young at heart in your life with a formal tea service at the Historic Mansion for Mother's Day month. Pre-Paid Reservations required. Buy Tickets at: Formal Tea | Hostess House
HMW Standout Business Episode: Wendy Puffer of Marion Design Co.
How Marion Works Ep. 7 — Marion Design Co.‘s Co-founder/CEO Wendy Puffer discusses the root of her business and her team’s thoughtful approach to assist individuals, businesses, and organizations large and small in reaching their goals. Listen at https://cityofmarion.in.gov/news-events/hmw-standout-business-episode-wendy-puffer-of-marion-design-co
America at 250: Reflections on Community Exhibit at Minnetrista
What does it mean to be an American? Minnetrista Museum & Gardens invites visitors to explore this question in America at 250: Reflections on Community, on view April 4 through October 25, 2026, in the Center Building’s Gallery 2. As part of the nation’s 250th anniversary, this interactive exhibition centers on the people and perspectives that shape American identity today. Through dialogue, storytelling, and shared reflection, visitors are invited to consider their own experiences—and how individual
Lisa Edwards on How Marion Works: The Podcast
Catch the Latest How Marion Works Podcast ft. Lisa Edwards of MFD
Profitable Doesn't Mean Protected: Recession-Proofing Your Grant County Business
Recession-proofing your small business means building cash reserves, tightening collections, retaining key employees, and keeping customers close — all before economic pressure forces those decisions. Profitability alone doesn't guarantee survival: a 2025 peer-reviewed umbrella review in the Review of Managerial Science found that small businesses face steeper recession risk than large firms due to restricted capital access, limited managerial capacity, and dependence on a narrow customer base. For
Grant Regional Adult Education Graduation
Knowing When to Part Ways: A Practical Guide for Handling Employee or Contractor Terminations
Business leaders, HR managers, and founders eventually face one of the most difficult management decisions: letting someone go. Whether the person is an employee or a contractor, the decision affects morale, productivity, and the organization’s culture. Handling the situation thoughtfully protects the company while maintaining fairness and professionalism.Key Takeaways Performance patterns matter more than isolated mistakes. Clear expectations and documentation reduce legal and operational
How Huntington Business Owners Can Make Every Presentation Pay Off
Public speaking is one of the most underleveraged growth tools available to small business owners. A single well-delivered talk can generate leads, open doors with investors, and establish your credibility faster than any ad campaign. For owners connected to the Greater Grant County Chamber, that opportunity is closer than most realize — and the business owners who step up to speak are consistently ahead of those who don't.The Real Cost of Staying Quiet If you've decided public speaking "just isn't for
Why Financial Literacy Is a Core Skill for Small Business Owners
Small business owners operate at the center of every major decision their company makes. Financial knowledge—understanding cash flow, costs, pricing, and profitability—helps owners make decisions that keep the business stable and growing. Without a clear grasp of the numbers behind operations, even a strong product or service can struggle to sustain itself. When entrepreneurs understand how money moves through their company, they gain the ability to plan ahead, manage risk, and respond to unexpected
Take Charge of Your Own Small Business Marketing in Greater Grant County
Small business owners in Greater Grant County often juggle operations, customer service, and community involvement—but marketing is the lever that multiplies all of those efforts. Owning your marketing doesn’t require big budgets; it requires clarity, consistency, and a willingness to test what works in your community. Learn below about: How small businesses can build simple, durable marketing habits Why understanding your audience shapes every message you put out Where local owners tend to get
Thriving Through the Surge: Smart Ways to Handle Sudden Business Growth
When a small business experiences a sudden surge in demand, the initial excitement can quickly be tempered by the reality of stretched systems, overwhelmed staff, and precarious finances. Managing rapid growth isn’t just about keeping up — it’s about making intentional choices that preserve quality, protect cash flow, and prepare the company for sustainable scaling. Unplanned expansion can strain operations, hurt customer satisfaction, and create lasting financial instability if not managed carefully.
How Smart Accounting Keeps Small Businesses Confident and Compliant
When you’re running a small business, financial health is just as critical as customer growth. Owners often think of accounting only in terms of compliance — filing taxes or meeting state requirements — but in reality, disciplined accounting practices provide the visibility you need to make confident growth decisions. Whether you’re hiring your first employee, taking out a line of credit, or preparing for expansion, clarity in your books removes the guesswork. Track Cash Flow Like a Daily Pulse Cash
How Smart Companies Build Bridges Across Departments
The challenge isn’t that departments don’t want to collaborate. It’s that they often don’t know how to do it meaningfully. Despite the best intentions, silos form easily and solidify over time, leaving once-fluid organizations rigid and reactive. The businesses that figure out how to breach those invisible walls—those are the ones that grow faster, solve problems quicker, and weather disruption with less drama. Interdepartmental communication isn’t just a buzzword anymore; it’s the backbone of companies