News
Coworking Space Available!
We are excited to announce we will be hosting a coworking space at The aMPersand on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 9am-1pm. Not only will there be reliable Wi-Fi, but there will be accountability to be productive with others. While there will be accountability, there will also be community! Studies show that we are more productive when our brains take breaks every so often and connect with others. What a perfect space to do this!We will also offer 10% off your entire purchase if you select one of
Summer Learning: GRCC offers Advanced Manufacturing Camp
Summer learning: GRCC offers Advanced Manufacturing Camp Grant Regional Career Center has a new opportunity for area students this summer: an Advanced Manufacturing Camp in partnership with Wiley Metal. Students ages 12 to 16 from around the region are invited to participate in this special opportunity. This free camp will offer students the chance to explore modern manufacturing in a real-world setting, with hands-on learning in a safe environment. Using CAD software, students will actually
All-City Art Show to Feature Marion Students' Visual and Performing Arts on May 15-16
The All-City Art Show features work from Marion students at all grade levels. The show will be open to the public from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, May 15, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 16. Visitors will enter through the Walton Performing Arts Center, where some of the artwork will be displayed, and continue on into the art hallway to view more displays. The All-City Art Show features will include:Interactive art experiencesPerformances by Marion Community Schools music ensembles (times to be
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.
Culture Fest invites campus community to celebrate its people
KOKOMO, Ind. — The sweet scent of coconut soup and the sounds of percussion filled the air in Indiana University Kokomo’s Alumni Hall Tuesday (April 14), as students, faculty, and staff celebrated Culture Fest. The event invites all to experience a day centered on culture, community, and connection. Hosted by the Multicultural Center and the International Student Organization, it offered tastes of international food and candy, informational posters, and the chance to meet and talk to people from a
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,
January 2026 Labor Market Review (Economic Growth Region 3)
Labor Market ReviewThe Labor Market Review contains a monthly snapshot of various labor market information in Economic Growth Region 3. This report consists of data for January 2026. Some of the data in this report includes:Labor force: employment and unemployment Consumer Price IndexUnemployment insurance claimsWARN NoticesIndiana Career Connect: applicants and job postingsIndustry employmentBureau of Labor Statistics commentaryClick here to view the full report.
Free Workshop to Explore the Role of Play & Storytelling in STEM Learning
Free workshop to explore the role of play, storytelling, in STEM learning KOKOMO, Ind. — Teachers are invited to learn how to enhance STEM education through storytelling and play, at a free workshop Thursday, April 23, at Indiana University Kokomo. Playing with Dolls & STEM in the Classroom incorporates Friends Forever Club dolls, each of which has a STEM interest and story. Christina Romero, associate professor of education, and Jennifer McNeany, assistant clinical professor in school psychology,
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
Take & Bake Meals Are Back at The Mansion!
Take-and-Bakes are back at the Mansion! Don’t miss out on our delicious, house-made meals! Our next Take-and-Bake offering is Salisbury Steaks with Mushroom Gravy over Rice Pilaf with buttery California Blend. These convenient, scratch-made dishes are fully prepared, frozen, and ready to pop in the oven. Pre-paid orders are accepted until Friday at 3:00, with pick-up available starting the following Monday.More exciting events happening at the Mansion in 2026 August - Evening Dining at the
The Beauty of U.S. Opening Reception at Kennedy Art Center: Saturday, May 9th 1-3pm
In recognition of the 250th birthday of the United States, the Kennedy Art Center & Marion Arts Commission are honored to mark this celebratory moment by featuring works created by the Grant County Art Association. The Beauty of U.S. invites our community, county, and country to grow closer through the shared language of painting, photography, and sculpture. Our goal is to unite us through the beauty found in the United States. This collection reflects what the GCAA artists love about the United States of
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
Graduation Artists' Work Showcased in Senior Thesis Exhibition
Graduating artists’ work showcased in Senior Thesis Exhibition KOKOMO, Ind. — Celebrate the accomplishments of Indiana University Kokomo’s New Media, Art, and Technology (NMAT) program graduates at the annual Senior Thesis Exhibition.The exhibition opens Friday, April 17, and continues through Thursday, May 14 in the Gallery, in the IU Kokomo Library Building, 2300 S. Washington St. Admission is free, and free parking is available on campus.The show represents the culmination of each artist’s studies and
City of Marion Provides Funding to CASA of Grant County
Marion High School to Present Beloved Stage Classic Annie
MHS to present beloved stage classic Annie Marion High School is bringing the well-loved, family-friendly musical Annie to the main stage at the Walton Performing Arts Center this week! The cast features students from Marion High School as well as McCulloch Junior High. Come out and enjoy this heartwarming tale of the orphan who rises above a cruel and bitter start to bring light and love to the world around her, featuring some of the greatest musical theatre hits ever written, including the
Nominate an Outstanding Senior for LifeStream's Golden Hoosier Award during National Volunteer Month
Nominations are now being accepted for the LifeStream Golden Hoosier Award. LifeStream is seeking those special older adults who demonstrate excellence, passion, and commitment to volunteering and helping others in their community. A committee will choose the top nominees and choose the winner of the LifeStream Golden Hoosier Award. This individual will then be nominated for the state of Indiana's prestigious Golden Hoosier Award. Nominations are due by April 20, 2026. Guidelines 1. Nominee
Mental Health Matters Scheduled for May 14th
Golden Senior Olympics
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
No Yard Waste Dumping 4/6 Due to Seasonal Mulching
Citywide Maintenance will not be accepting any yard waste dumping on Monday, April 6th, 2026, due to seasonal mulching. The location at 520 E. 6th St. in Marion will resume accepting yard waste on Tuesday, April 7th. *Dates may change depending on the weather.
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
A Practical Path Forward: Free Workshop Series Continues for East Central Indiana Entrepreneurs
In economic development circles, there is often a tendency to talk about entrepreneurship in broad, aspirational terms—innovation, disruption, growth. But on the ground, in communities like those across East Central Indiana, entrepreneurship is far more personal. It is measured in long hours, careful decisions, and the quiet determination to build something that lasts. That is precisely where the East Central Indiana Small Business Development Center (SBDC), in partnership with the Grant County
Campus Certifications Lead to Law School and Love
KOKOMO, Ind. — Connections made at Indiana University Kokomo prepared Sam Robinson for his future after graduation — both professionally and personally. Robinson, from Camden, graduated with degrees in sociology and criminal justice, with a minor in psychology, in December 2025, and has been admitted to the IU Maurer School of Law in Bloomington with a full scholarship. Professors and campus police officers guided him to opportunities including working as a campus cadet police officer; an internship
Grant County WorkOne Workshops for April 2026
Northwood Manor Senior Resource Expo
Angel Memorial Ceremony, April 26, 2:00pm
Marion Health’s Family Birthing Center will host an Angel Memorial Ceremony on Sunday, April 26, at 2:00 p.m. at the Grant Memorial Park Mausoleum Chapel, 1606 W. 26th St., Marion. This special service of remembrance is dedicated to families who have experienced the loss of a baby at 20 weeks or earlier. The ceremony offers a meaningful opportunity to honor and remember the little ones who never made it home. Following the service, families will have the opportunity to visit the cremation garden, where
Idyl Wyld April Events & Updates
Gift cards available for any occasion SCHOOLS schedule your party before the end of the year. $150 and everyone pays $3 skate rental or $4 inline/speed. call today 765-510-1233. College Takeover Night Come join the fun this one is for the college crowd only. College ID required at the door Admission $5 Skate rental $3 $4 inline/speed Friday April 17 from 10:15pm - 1 amHoly Rollin Night Come and enjoy some Christian music and
REALTORS® Association of Central Indiana Holds 4th Annual Charity Event & Announces Award Recipients
2026 CHARITY EVENT & AWARDS RECOGNITION NIGHT The REALTORS® Association of Central Indiana (RACI) hosted its annual Charity Event, raising $9,200 for Josiah White’s. The event, which featured a silent auction and a video highlighting Josiah White's mission, was met with enthusiasm and support from attendees. 2026 REALTOR® OF THE YEAR Jordan Moran of Modern Real Estate in Logansport was named the 2026 REALTOR® of the Year. Since becoming a REALTOR® member in 2021, Moran showed up as a
First Farmers Bank & trust Welcomes Nathan Smith as Assistant VP, Commercial & Ag Lender
CONVERSE, Ind. (March 26, 2026) — First Farmers Bank & Trust is pleased to announce the appointment of Nathan Smith as Assistant Vice President, Commercial & Ag Lender at itsConverse location.Bringing more than a decade of experience in sales and management, Nathan is honored to join the First Farmers team and looks forward to building strong relationships within the community.In his new role, he will manage and service an established loan portfolio while leading efforts to originate new commercial and
CASA Sand Sculpture Artfest Registration Open
Registration is now open for the 2026 CASA Sand Sculpture Artfest: Shaping Growth – 18 Years and Counting, which will be held Saturday, July 11th. Register for this year's event at: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfoaHCEsJffGQ18eNHRpcHBhBf4a0tH_T4_jFK_NISYp16aCw/viewform?usp=header
IUK Professor Recognized as a Distinguished Scholar
Professor recognized as Distinguished Scholar by the Indiana Academy of Science Hisako Masuda, Indiana University Kokomo professor of biochemistry, was honored by the Indiana Academy of Science (IAS) as its 2026 Distinguished Scholar. The award is given to an individual who is recognized by the IAS as having an exceptional record of scholarship. Recipients are selected from nominations submitted to its awards committee. “I was surprised,” said Masuda, who joined IU Kokomo’s faculty in 2013. “I feel there
3 Marion High School Students Accepted to Ivy League Schools
Marion High School is proud to highlight an outstanding accomplishment by the three of our top students in the Marion High School Class of 2026: All three have been accepted to Ivy League schools! Though they are all still working through the decisions about where they will continue their studies after they graduate from MHS, we are proud to highlight these impressive accomplishments: Grace Carpenter has been accepted to Yale University and Harvard University Richard Detamore has been accepted to
MJH Student earns prize at national art competition
A McCulloch Junior High School student recently earned a national award in the annual Scholastic Art and Writing competition. Tallulah Gibson, MJH 8th-grader and a CSA Arts Academy student, was awarded a National Silver Key in the sculpture category at national level competition for her piece titled “Cuddle Bug”. Tallulah’s art advanced to the national competition by earning the highest regional honor, a Gold Key. The piece also received a juror’s award at the regional level. She also was awarded a
MPL History Center - New Exhibit
Indiana Disasters, a Traveling Exhibit from the Indiana Historical Society: April 2-30, History Center Lobby at Marion Public Library It is no secret that—in Indiana—extreme weather such as floods, tornadoes, blizzards and drought persist year to year. The way humans interact with their environment also leaves people vulnerable to disasters, such as ?res, crashes, spills and explosions. Historically, stories of these events have been passed down from generation to generation, including biological,
Gianettes are IHSDTA scholastic hip-hop champs!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 19, 2026 CONTACT: Patricia Gibson, Director of Communications, Marion Community Schools cell: 765.618.2924 email: pgibson@marion.k12.in.us Gianettes are IHSDTA scholastic hip-hop champs! Congratulations to the Marion High School Gianettes dance team on their victory at the IHSDTA state finals! The Gianettes earned the hip-hop title for the scholastic division at the Indiana High School Dance Team Association state finals held March 14 at the Indiana
ANNOUNCING: Two GREAT Summer shows!
FEELS LIKE THE FIRST TIME August 22, 2026 Tickets on sale this Thursday, March 26, 2026 Tickets Feels Like The First Time is an American 7-piece rock band formed in 2017 as a tribute to the music of British/American rock band Foreigner and is based out of Milwaukee, WI. The band is made up of veteran musicians with decades of experience entertaining rock music fans at premier venues, festivals and concert events. The members of Feels Like The First Time having grown up with the music of Foreigner, are
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Wildcat Summer Academy: Creative Arts Camps (June 21-26)
Develop Skills & Explore Interests at WSA at Indiana Wesleyan University! The Wildcat Summer Academy delivers a college-like experience to high school students on campus from June 21–26. Students will:Experience dynamic learning and enriching social interactions in a supportive environmentDevelop new skills and engage with vibrant IWU faculty in exciting and thought-provoking waysExplore their interests and passions alongside like-minded students from around the countryIf you have students entering 9th
Marion JROTC marksman Hamilton qualifies for Junior Olympics and All-Services National Championship
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 25, 2026 CONTACT: Patricia Gibson, Director of Communications, Marion Community Schools cell: 765.618.2924 email: pgibson@marion.k12.in.us Marion JROTC marksman Hamilton qualifies for Junior Olympics and All-Services National Championship Marion JROTC cadet Gwynneth Hamilton has qualified for two prestigious national marksmanship competitions: She will compete later this month in the National All-Services Air Rifle Championship in Camp Perry, Ohio — only
OTA senior pays it forward by creating educational podcast
PRESS RELEASE OTA senior pays it forward by creating educational podcast KOKOMO, Ind. — Choosing a career path as an occupational therapy assistant was an overwhelming process for Reiley Hiser. As she considered the many options available, the Indiana University Kokomo senior thought about how she could share all the viewpoints she had gathered with other students trying to decide the right workplace for them. As her capstone project, she created a six-episode podcast, Discovering Your OT
Exclusive Discount at the Gas City PAC for GGC Members!
Greater Grant County members and their employees receive a $5 discount on tickets for the following shows using the promotion code CHAMBER at checkout!
Activate Your Storefront in Downtown Upland
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
36th Minnetrista Annual Juried Art Show, on view through May 3, 2026, at Minnetrista Museum & Gardens.
Written By Brea Cunningham Muncie, IN—Experience the vibrant tapestry of Indiana’s artistic talent at the 36th Minnetrista Annual Juried Art Show, on view from February 28 through May 3, 2026, at Minnetrista Museum & Gardens. Celebrating creativity across the Hoosier State, this juried exhibition showcases a diverse array of artistic expressions and invites visitors to immerse themselves in the rich world of fine art. This year’s exhibition was juried by Erika Kvam, Director and Head Curator of Purdue
2026 Senior Expo with The Marion-Grant County Senior Center May 1st
Upcoming Events at the Hostess House
Walk of Hope, May 1, 2026: Registration Open
Labor Market Review: Region 3 December 2025
Your Monthly Snapshot of the Region Labor Market ReviewThe Labor Market Review contains a monthly snapshot of various labor market information in Economic Growth Region 3. This report consists of data for December 2025. Some of the data in this report includes:Labor force: employment and unemployment Consumer Price IndexUnemployment insurance claimsWARN NoticesIndiana Career Connect: applicants and job postingsIndustry employmentBureau of Labor Statistics commentaryView The ReportContact
Quarterly Reports from the IN Dept of Workforce Development
Quarterly Reports are Available Three different quarterly reports includes information on online job ads, industry sector employment and wages, and UI claimants in Economic Growth Region 6. Real-Time Job Demand Online job postings summary of real-time data including skills, certifications, and education/experience from many different online job boards.View the Report Industry Sector Snapshot A quarterly count of employment and wages by industry from the Indiana Department of
Hoosiers By the Lumbers Labor Market Review
Your Monthly Snapshot of the Region Labor Market ReviewThe Labor Market Review contains a monthly snapshot of various labor market information in Economic Growth Region 3. This report consists of data for November 2025. Some of the data in this report includes:Labor force: employment and unemployment Consumer Price IndexUnemployment insurance claimsWARN NoticesIndiana Career Connect: applicants and job postingsIndustry employmentBureau of Labor Statistics commentaryView The ReportContact
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
Adobe Acrobat AI Assistant: All You Have to Do Is Ask Acrobat’s Generative AI Document & PDF Tool
Adobe Acrobat has long been an invaluable tool for business owners, entrepreneurs, and employees all over the world thanks to its wide array of PDF generation and editing tools. Now, Acrobat AI Assistant offers new benefits for businesses of all sizes. Acrobat AI Assistant’s revolutionary software can transform your business with its incredible features: Content Summarization and Insights: Long documents can be overwhelming to review, especially for busy entrepreneurs. The AI Assistant can