Wabash County Business Journal Summer 2021

From the office of Grow Wabash County

WORKING TO REVERSE THE POPULATION DECLINE Summertime always seems to make us stop and take stock of how things have grown. Flowers bloom, grass grows tall, kids we could have sworn were knee-high yesterday are now walking across the stage at high school graduation. While the bright summer sunshine makes growth easier to see, growth must be a

BY KEITH GILLENWATER President and CEO Grow Wabash County

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year-round theme for Wabash County. That is the motivation behind Imagine One 85 as the initiative progresses into the next, exciting chapter of this countywide project. We have listened to your ideas, your thoughts, hopes and dreams for Wabash County. You have helped us pinpoint the untapped resources and opportunities that

could unlock a new era of prosperity and (you guessed it) growth in Wabash County. Through the research conducted by Planning NEXT, local leaders and community development professionals, a familiar number has emerged… If Wabash County can successfully welcome and retain 85 families each year for the next three decades, we will have reversed the decline in population that Wabash County has experienced since the 1980s. 85 homes filled with families that shop at our local businesses, support our local schools and fall in love with that small-town local feeling that welcomes everybody home. 85 homes. It’s a big feat to achieve. So, what does all this mean? It means that we have some

work to do. That we all have a responsibility to find ways to utilize our passions and strengths to make Wabash County the place that 85 (or more!) families want to move to each year, the place where people find their niches, their callings and ultimately, their lifelong home. Now, it’s time to take action. We have a stronger idea of what Wabash County needs and wants for its future and it’s time to put pen to paper to start sketching out the route to get there. More than ever, we will need the support of our Wabash County leaders, business owners and community members to help us take all of the thoughts, the goals of 85 homes, the idea of a Mighty Wabash County Rising.

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By Joseph Slacian

FIVE YEARS LATER, WABASH STILL BENEFITTING FROM SMALL BUSINESS REVOLUTION Robert Herjavec, an entrepreneur featured on TV’s “Shark Tank, addresses a crowd gathered at the Honeywell Plaza while Steve Downs, the then Wabash Marketplace Inc. executive director looks on.

Robert Herjavec, an entrepreneur featured on TV’s “Shark Tank, and Amanda Brinkman, Chief Brand Officer for Deluxe, discuss Wabash businesses while walking along Miami Street.

“The winner of Small Business Revolution Main Street is … Wabash, Indiana.” With those words -- uttered via film by Amanda Brinkman, Chief Marketing Officer for Deluxe, Inc., in May 2016 -- a crowd of several hundred people who filled the Historic Eagles Theatre erupted with joy. The City of Wabash defeated the town of Silverton, Ore., in a national contest in which six area businesses received $500,000 in goods and services from Deluxe. Moments later, Brinkman made a live appearance in the theatre, congratulating the community and its residents on its win by nearly 10,000 votes. What makes that total even more remarkable, is that at one point, just days before the announcement, the city was down 4,000 votes to the Oregon community. Six businesses – Ellen’s Bridal and Dress Boutique, Filament Tattoo, Harry’s Old Kettle Pub and Grill, The Eclectic Shoppe, Schlemmer Brothers and Thriftalicious – were chosen by Deluxe to be the beneficiaries of their services. HOW IT STARTED Local officials first learned of the contest through business owner Aimee Emrick. There was an online notice circulating inviting communities to enter the contest. Emrick, who owns Get Nailed, wrote a

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A crowd gathers at the Filament Tattoo Company to watch a video in which the City of Wabash was named a finalist in the Small Business Revolution in May 2016.

nomination for the city to be one of the honored communities. “I became the point of contact after the nominations were submitted by citizens,” said Christine Flohr, Visit Wabash County executive director. “We were the pilot season. They learned a lot from us; we learned a lot from the business execution side. I think they learned a lot from us on how to make pilot the program and make it better for the following seasons to come.” Deluxe had some needs from nominated communities, such as access to an airport, population size and some sort of main street area with businesses to receive help. “When (Deluxe) started the pilot year, they had 10,000 nominations come in,” Flohr said. “They kept narrowing down to two. How they narrowed it was through a lot of interviews, and I think that’s the role I really played. “A lot of people think I brought them here. I think my role was after we received nominations, they did research about communities. They called these communities – I don’t know how many – from the nomination pool and did interviews with stakeholders, because then they were looking for other key things. If they came to the community, were there people on the street who were able to take their investment of time, resources and money and do something with it? Did they have the right people in place and the right relationships in place so if they needed access to a contractor, or permit or approval, there was somebody there who worked well enough to have those relationships. If you drop into a community, you need help navigating those pieces.” With Wabash trailing in the vote count in the waning days, local stakeholders met at the Visit Wabash County office on Miami Street to strategize and figure out a way to overcome the deficit. “They were going to reach out to influencers on social media like Crystal Gayle, and Ben (Higgins), who was on ‘The Bachelorette’ and Blue the Butler (University) Bulldog,” Flohr said. Former Wabash resident and stand-up comedian Michael Palascak and former Indianapolis Colts punter Pat McAfee also were among the celebrities reaching out to their fans for support.

“Knowing that Deluxe was using this as a marketing campaign for how people viewed their company – that they were more than just a check company – when they see large scale social media influencers Tweeting about the project and the program, they realize also that Wabash is going to be a contender that could walk alongside them to make their program successful,” Flohr said. “We understood the power of marketing as a whole, and listened and applied those tactics and practices.” FILAMENT TATTOO “I saw on Facebook that we were in the running, and so I spent however many weeks during the voting process making video after video every single day, flooding Facebook urging people to get involved,” said Matt Haynes, who owns Filament Tattoo. “I figured it would really help the community.” While the local businesses benefitted through the contest, he said that wasn’t the driving force behind his involvement. “It was the publicity that Wabash would get that would make the difference,” he said, sitting on a couch in the waiting area of his business at 36 E. Canal St. “I definitely think there’s been a benefit of having them here in town.” Haynes said he was excited when he learned his business was selected as one of the recipients. “I think each business benefitted differently,” he said. “It didn’t bring in the foot traffic to our business the same way it did at Harry’s or some of the other businesses. Most everything we do is by appointment. It wasn’t going to bring in the volume of people for me that some of the other businesses have had the pleasure of having. But that’s just the nature of the business. Everyone is going to eat lunch. Figuring out that Harry’s is there is great, or being able to buy video games at Thriftalicious. “Myself, like Ellen’s, you only buy a wedding dress every so often. People only tend to get tattooed every so often. It probably didn’t affect us as much as it did some of the other businesses.” Filament Tattoo received a new door and awning through the program. More importantly, it received a new website. “That was the main thing,” Haynes said, noting the new website helped get the business’ name out. “And it got that horrible, ugly house door that was on the front of this place off, and made the front of my building look a heck of a lot better.”

Revolution’s recommendations was with the website. “The website they created for us was informational,” she said. “It was fantastic, but it was informational. It wasn’t an e-commerce website. Everything they taught us, everything they talked about, I took to heart and still practice.”

THE ECLECTIC SHOPPE The Eclectic Shoppe had been open about one year when Wabash was declared the Small Business Revolution winner. “We didn’t think we would be selected,” owner Maria Smyth said. “At the time we had all handcrafted and locally made items with antique furniture, because I have a love for that. When they came in, they really helped us. We didn’t really understand, nor did we know, what we didn’t know.” The Deluxe team helped Smyth and her husband, Mike, marketing, packaging, website design and more. “I think it was attractive because we carried a lot,” she continued. “Ninety percent of our inventory then was all handcrafted locally or in the surrounding area sourced.” Early on, Smyth admits, she didn’t really know what the Small Business Revolution was about. “When we did find out, we needed a way to share about the Eclectic Shoppe because we were new and thought, ‘Oh my gosh, this is going to be fantastic for us, because they’re going to help advertise for us’” she said. “That’s free advertising for us. It’s not something that we didn’t want to do, but we knew it was going to help us with the marketing part. “I have always said, I’m not a marketing master, but now I’ve read a lot, I follow a lot of small businesses to learn. But Small Business Revolution, I think, really gave Eclectic Shoppe the push to make us known.” One of the things Small Business Revolution helped with was with an awning for the business. “I had that on the must have list,” Smyth said. “But, again, as a small business you think, ‘OK, we’re ready, we’re set.’ But then something else comes up and you must spend those funds.” Deluxe representatives also discussed packaging with Smyth, something she admits was missing. They also discussed the importance of business cards and including social media contact information, along with normal info, on them. Brinkman and Robert Herjavec, an entrepreneur featured on TV’s “Shark Tank,” helped the business with price point. “It was because they felt I didn’t charge enough,” she said. “At the time (the commission) was only 25 percent. But we had our furniture and things in here that were ours. We thought they, the artists, would kind of subsidize our business.” One change Smyth made from the Small Business 10 Wabash Journal  | SUMMER 2021

ELLEN’S BRIDAL & DRESS BOUTIQUE Ellen’s owner Lisa Downs remembers receiving a telephone call at her business’ former location on West Canal Street. “I got a call, and it was crazy busy, it was prom season,” she recalled, sitting on a sofa at her new location, 45 W. Market St. “They wouldn’t tell me who they were. They had all these questions. So, I thought it was a scam. Who comes to a town and gives you half a million dollars?” But her views changed after meeting with Deluxe representatives face to face. “They asked questions that really made me think about why I was in business and what I loved about doing it,” she said. “It was really about what problems do you face as a small business owner in a small town? What were customers like? That kind of thing. “I could tell they were genuine when I met with them the first time and that they were really going to be able to help me.” When Wabash was announced as the winner, Downs said she was “over the top.” “I hoped I was selected as one of the businesses,” she continued. “But I just thought what a blessing it was going to be for the whole town, to turn that spotlight on us. It was one of the most exciting times in my life, when we were all in that Eagles Theatre and (Brinkman) came walking out.” Deluxe representatives helped Downs with branding her business. “From packaging with Ellen’s logo on there,” she said. “Actually, creating the logo, having brand colors and particular fonts that you’re always consistently using.” Deluxe also redesigned Ellen’s website, as well as starting an email campaign for the business. “They really brought into focus how reviews are and being active on Google Business,” Downs said. “I didn’t know any of that prior to that.” Without the help from Deluxe, she said, bluntly, “I would be closed. I am convinced I wouldn’t still be here. And I’m positive I wouldn’t have survived the pandemic had I not had their backing and their support.”

HARRY’S OLD KETTLE PUB & GRILL Harry’s owner Harry Kilmer received a telephone call from Christine Flohr one day and asked if he had time to meet with some people. “I was like, ‘Who,’” said Kilmer, who was also working at Taylor University at the time. “She said, ‘It’s too involved. I’ll tell you after you get here.’” Kilmer went to the bar and a few minutes later, Flohr and two others – Amanda Brinkman from Deluxe and Matt Naylor of Flow Nonfiction, the company doing the Small Business Revolution filming -- entered. “I didn’t know what was going on,” Kilmer said. “I didn’t know if they were looking to move here. They were just asking general questions about the business. They didn’t say they were here to do a video, or there’s a contest, none of that was brought to my attention. So, I didn’t know if they were married, friends, looking to buy a bar, open a business here. “I didn’t know what was going on.” As they were leaving, he asked Flohr what was happening, and she let him in on the program. Kilmer, in his dreams for the bar, had hoped to add a kitchen. “I had all the equipment,” he said. “It was all in a storage unit. I started doing some remodeling in the back. But I just reached a point where I was out of money. The business was still going great. But everything that I made was going right back into it.” At that point, he recalled, the bar would serve frozen pizzas, and he would prepare food on Sundays during football games and NASCAR races. Kilmer said once he learned about the contest, he thought the idea was great. But, he admits, he was a bit apprehensive, especially during the voting. “There was a point where I thought this is too good to be true,” he said. “There’s a hitch. I thought, are they going to come to me and say, ‘For a thousand dollars of our Deluxe product, we can show you how you can make X amount. I thought there’s got to be something. We’ve got to buy into something.” But then he started doubting his doubts. “I started voting,” he said, “because what if this is real and there’s no catch. That’s exactly what it was. It was a Godsend, really.” With Deluxe’s team, he began working on a new logo. “It was interesting,” he said. “They sent me a questionnaire type thing about my logo. What kind of logo do you want? Of these eight or ten pictures, which ones do you like the best. You choose those, and then it goes to the next page. “What do you think about these? What colors do you like? It took all that information I gave them and they created my logo, which is pretty neat.”

In addition, Deluxe revamped the outdoor sign, provided new menus and business and cards, tables and chairs, helped finish the kitchen and provided him a smoker. They also built a website for the business, and introduced him to the importance of social media. “I didn’t know what half of them were,” he said of social media. “Just getting my name out there on Google Ads, Facebook, all of those.” As for advice, they stressed having a better understanding of his business, especially from the accounting aspect. If not for Deluxe’s help, what would the business be like today? “I don’t know,” Kilmer quickly replies. “I’m sure I eventually would have the kitchen up and running. I don’t know. It’s hard to say.” THE AFTERMATH The community is still reaping the rewards of being involved with the Small Business Revolution. It can be seen, they all say, with the contacts they made and keep with Deluxe representatives, as well as with those from communities involved with the program in following years. But, it goes beyond that. “We’ve had people come from out of state that have seen the show,” Kilmer said. “They made an effort just to come to Wabash just to meet us.” One day, Kilmer and his wife, Judy, were driving past the business when they noticed a family walking toward the door. “Judy said, ‘Hey, they’ve got kids,’” he recalled. “So, I pulled over and said, ‘I’m sorry, but we’re 21 and over.’” The family was passing through from Colorado en route to Kentucky, and they made a detour to come to Wabash first to visit. “They were coming in for lunch,” he said. “We got them some to-goes. Then they went downtown and visited the other businesses.” The program, those involved believe, benefited the community greatly. “I really believe that it is because of (Deluxe) that the light shined on Wabash,” Maria Smyth said. “Not just our business, but all the small businesses. Now we are a destination, and I Wabash Journal  | SUMMER 2021 11

Amanda Brinkman, Chief Brand Officer for Deluxe, addresses a crowd gathered at the Historic Eagles Theatre after Wabash was announced as the winner in Small Business Revolution.

think that’s fantastic.” Lisa Downs believes the experience has created a unique bond, especially among business owners. I feel like it brought us together as a community,” Downs said. “Where as, prior to that, you would see people on the street, especially fellow business owners, and you just had those superficial conversations, ‘Hi. How are you? Great,’ and on down the road you go. And now, especially with those business owners, when we run into each other we stop and ask, ‘How truly is business? How are you truly doing?’” “For Wabash, it was a really good thing,” Kilmer said. “I think that everyone really benefited from it.” Deluxe also benefited from the program. “Again,” Christine Flohr reminded, “this is their pilot year. They went from ten thousand nominations to year two, which was over one million nominations. It had just grown in notoriety. I think the small business community is sincere and is huge, and I think we all relate. “And, as Robert Herjavec said, America is built on small businesses. Collectively, they are the largest employer. So, I think it resonated in the hearts of Americans across the country. “It was grass roots. It meant something. It was relatable.”

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Wabash Castings LLC and Wisconsin Aluminum Foundry (WAF) gather for a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, June 16, to celebrate the successful acquisition of Wabash Castings by WAF.

WISCONSIN ALUMINUM FOUNDRY ACQUIRES WABASH CASTINGS

Wabash Castings was acquired by WAF on April 1, in the interest of expanding the foundry’s production growth, primarily in the markets of electric vehicle and consumer goods. “We are thrilled to bring Wabash Castings into the WAF family,” Sachin Shivaram, CEO of Wisconsin Aluminum Foundry, said. “The depth of talent and know-how at Wabash is impressive. Their facility forms a perfect complement to our existing breadth of production lines, giving us an exciting new option to offer customers as part of our portfolio of solutions. We are looking forward to being an active member of the Wabash community.” Following the acquisition of Wabash Castings, WAF announced the expansion of 401k benefits for all employees and an immediate wage increase of $2 per hour for hourly employees. The company has also agreed to pay medical insurance premiums for all employees for the remainder of 2021 and monthly $400 childcare reimbursements for employees with

children. “It is a new beginning for us to be part of the WAF family and the Wabash Castings’ employees are excited and happy about it,” Pat Meredith vice president and general manager for Wabash Castings LLC, said. “The WAF culture and values are driving a renewed family atmosphere in the plant. We will continue to produce and provide high quality aluminum castings to the market place and with WAF we have new and different markets and customers and look forward to the future growth with them.” Starting June 14, the company also transitioned to 10-hour, 4-day work week model and WAF has emphasized a desire to become engaged with the Wabash County community. Wabash Castings is also currently hiring for general foundry production and maintenance positions. Interested candidates can apply at www. wabashcastings.com/careers.

Wabash Journal | SUMMER 2021 13

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MC S teacher named state’s Teacher of the Year

By Eric Christiansen

Manchester Jr.-Sr. High School business teacher Shelly Leifer received the surprise of her career Tuesday, May 4, when she was named the Indiana Small and Rural Association (ISRA) Teacher of the Year.

MJSHS Principal Jon Lippe organized a surprise pep-session for teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week, however, Leifer was the only teacher that had the spotlight. “I’m a little overwhelmed right now,” Leifer said. “This is really an honor. You could have picked anybody in this school. I just love what I do.” “(Shelly) is a woman of impeccable character and the type of role model that today’s students desperately need,” Lippe said in a letter of recommendation to the ISRA. “I believe that Shelly Leifer is very deserving of this honor.” Leifer, a 1986 graduate of Manchester

High School, didn’t begin her teaching career until 2012 where she taught at Northfield Jr.-Sr. High School for one year before going back to her alma mater and helping restart the business program. “I didn’t come into this until I was 45 years old. I think that has helped because I’ve been able to use all of my previous work skills and really work with the kids on what the real world looks like,” Leifer said. “I try to bring that into my classroom. I try to give them assignments and opportunities to do things that they would do if they were actually out there and make it as realistic as possible.” Manchester Community Schools Curriculum Director Sue Gnagy noted how much of Leifer’s success comes from behind the scenes. “Shelly received the Next Level Program of Study Planning and Implementation

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grants. Her proposal was one of 12 selected for the entire state and the only business program to be selected,” Gnagy said. “She is working with the Governor’s Workforce Cabinet to develop the framework for this Program of Study as well as serve as a general advisor for all things CTE (Career and Technical Education). Her leadership in this area has put Manchester on the map at the state level. “Shelly not only promotes, but also exemplifies the attributes of a Manchester graduate,” Gnagy added. By winning the state award, Leifer is now up for the National Teacher of the Year.

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CFC Distributors marks

YEAR in business By Mandy Mahan mmahan@thepaperofwabash.com

“I never thought it would be 50 years,” Bolinger said with a chuckle. Now, CFC delivers all over the world.

Established in 1971, CFC Distributors, located in Roann, is one of the Midwest’s largest distributors of high quality agricultural repair parts to farm equipment dealers and farm stores.

“It’s expanding quite a bit,” said Fleck. “I don’t think there is any state that we haven’t sold to, including Alaska and Hawaii. We do a lot in New Zealand, a fair amount in France, a little bit in Australia.”

This year marks the 50th anniversary for CDC. CEO Dennis Bolinger and president Brad Fleck discussed the history of the company, where they stand now, and the plans for the future.

Bolinger said that when Fleck came to work for CFC after working for Manchester Farm Center, he was shocked at the numbers.

Bolinger said CFC was started by his father, Ralph Bolinger.

“We don’t operate on a big margin around here, if most people were to see the margins they would think they are shockingly low, but the volume is shockingly high,” said Bolinger. “We are talking millions of parts per year. When Brad came to work here, he was staggered and he had been in the business 10 or 15 years before he came here. It’s just a lot of volume, and if you can keep your overhead down, and keep your labor costs down, you don’t have to have that margin, you work on the volume and hope you can maintain it.”

“My grandfather had a lot of businesses in North Manchester and when he passed away, he didn’t have a will, so everything that he had was sold and my dad couldn’t buy the farms because he had been working for his dad and had no equity, or money or anything else,” he said. “We had been selling Weiss plow shears out of the equipment dealership there in North Manchester and Dad decided he would go out and see if Weis would sell him plow shears and he would go door to door selling the plow shears. “He said he had this dream that it would work and I said ‘You need to get some more sleep.’ He started going to farm sales on the weekends and had this pickup truck and there was this blue box that he that he had built and put on the truck to store parts in and sell out of and that’s how it got started and it just gradually grew. As farm equipment dealers heard about him, they wanted to get in on the act, so Dad developed a price sheet where he could sell wholesale to equipment dealers and sell retail to farmers so he didn’t lose any sales. It got so big that Dad bought this property and we moved down here and we became sole distributers for farm equipment dealers all over Indiana, Ohio, Illinois and Michigan. It’s just grown and grown and grown since then to what we are today.” CFC Distributors has been at its location in Roann since 1982

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In the farm equipment business, competition is common, but tends to be friendly. “We do have competitors,” said Fleck. “But the interesting thing about our competitors is that we also kind of work together on some things. Not all of them, but some of our competitors, you know, we do some business back and forth, and it’s kind of a friendly competition.” Bolinger agreed. “You know, our major competition is probably John Deere and Case IH,” he said. “So, you’ve got all these little players out here, and you know, we’re a small player compared to John Deere and Case IH, but you put all these little players together and if they can work off of someone’s volumes and they can buy parts, so what if it’s from the competition? So, our

competition, they buy some from us. We manufacture from them and they manufacture for us. And if we don’t do it, we’re gonna go under, you know, because they can run us down.”

and Aaron so they’re the heir apparents and I don’t know how long it’s going to take but Brad and Aaron are going to end up owning this place at some point down the road,” said Bolinger.

At CFC, many of the sales are parts made elsewhere, but around 30-40 percent is manufactured at the CFC location.

“From Aaron and my standpoints, we are very grateful that Dennis is offering us this opportunity. We are grateful for him, we are grateful for our customers, our employees, we’ve got a great group of employees,” said Fleck.

Like many companies, CFC has seen some changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but luckily not as much as many others. “We are very fortunate, because we are in the agricultural industry, we are considered an essential business, so we had the opportunity to stay open,” said Fleck. “To be honest, we have some supply chain issues now, we have some significant inflationary pressures, that type of thing, but as far as business, we are doing just as much business as we ever have, in fact, last years was one of our highest sale volumes ever, and we are eclipsing that this year, so from that stand point, it hasn’t really hurt us. We’ve had to deal with some COVID related issues as far as employees being sick, we’ve done some extra cleaning and there was a short time we had to restrict access to the office because we had some internal staff test positive, so that type of thing.” Some changes are on the horizon for CFC. “What’s going on is I’m selling my shares of stock to Brad

Bolinger said, “It’s a two-way street. It’s really beautiful how this has all worked out. We have great customers. We have some customers that we have dealt with for the whole 50 years. It’s really cool how we’ve weathered the storms, there has been a lot of agricultural turmoil in the past 50 years.” He also thought back on the faith that his father had when starting the business and attributed the success to him. “On the front of that blue box that dad used to use to sell parts, it’s written ‘God is my partner,’ and my dad had a lot of faith and he knew he was going to make it and like I was the one that told him to go back to sleep, you know, told him he needed to quit dreaming about a business out here. I never had that faith, or the conviction that it would be successful, but I remember bringing him up here just before he passed away and he was saying ‘Oh! Ah!’ and it was a big thing to him, and I don’t think he had any vision it would ever be like it is today.”

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Wabash Journal | SUMMER 2021 17

Welcome back!

Above Community Foundaiton Executive Director Patty Grant and Board President Brian Howenstine cut the ribbon during the June 24 grand opening ceremony. By Eric Christiansen Nov. 19, 2016 is a day that members of the Community Foundation of Wabash County, along with business owners and apartment tenants on the 200 block of North Manchester’s East Main Street, will never forget.

In the early hours of that morning, a fire engulfed the west-end portion of the building at 216 E. Main Street. The fire spread to the second story of the Strauss Building at 218-222 East Main Street, the home of the Community Foundation of Wabash County, as well as Tiede Metz and Downs, P.C., home to attorney Al Schlitt, and the accounting firm of Terrill and Company. Fast-forwardtotheannouncementof a renovation plan and groundbreaking

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North Manchester Town Manager for the Strauss Building on Jan. 20, Adam Penrod spoke to the crowd 2020, and finally, to the completion and gathered for the ribbon cutting on ribbon cutting celebration on June 25, June 25. 2021, and the Community Foundation of Wabash County is “The day we woke back home. up to the news that “That is exactly what the downtown was on “Behind this Community Foundation does fire – that’s kind moment are decades for all of us,” he continued. of a nightmare for and decades of very “Constantly serving for the community leaders dedicated citizens to learn that one of betterment of the county, who were critical to your prime assets is whether it’s educational needs, the Foundation to on fire, ” Penrod said. infrastructure improvements, bring us to this point,” “As I stood on the quality of life projects, or the said Patty Grant, street, my observation programs that lift up those Strauss family member was that many local individuals directly with life and Community fire departments, law challenges.” Foundation Executive enforcement, multiple Director. “This building ambulances, the Red was established as Cross, EMA, friends a flour exchange. My great-greatand family, and many others in the grandfather (Daniel Strauss) had a mill community, were coming together, chain and a grain mill in this building. here to help and see what they can do. It’s really a big moment to see the Seeing that meant a lot to me and that building being used again.” it’s all about community.

“That is exactly what the Community Foundation does for all of us,” he continued. “Constantly serving for the betterment of the county, whether it’s educational needs, infrastructure improvements, quality of life projects, or the programs that lift up those individuals directly with life challenges.”

partnership with them,” he continued. “The impact they’ve had in the community, whether it’s with the Early Award Scholarship program or the Promise Scholarships, or anything else.

Grow Wabash County President and CEO Keith Gillenwater added his appreciation for the Community Foundation.

As community members were treated to an open house to tour the newly-renovated building throughout the day, Brian Howenstine, Community Foundation Board President, expressed his appreciation for all that went into the project.

“We have worked together a lot recently as we’ve engaged in the One 85 initiative and have partnered for a lot of years,” he said. “They’ve been long-time investors for not only Grow Wabash County but a lot of other initiatives we’ve undertaken over the years. “We’ve

always

valued

that

“Thank you for the continued investment in the community.”

“First, thank you to the Strauss family for this beautiful building. We thank you for your generosity and your kindness,” he said. “We are so excited to be here in this facility and its fresh and new look.”

Howenstine noted that the Board named the conference room on the southwest side of the building the “Strauss Family Community Room”. “We thank the collaboration with Grow Wabash County and everybody in town that works alongside us,” he said. “There are hundreds of partners the Community Foundation works with every day. The staff does all the heavy lifting, and I can speak for the whole board that we are extremely happy that the work you do is inspiring.” Penrod mentioned how much the Community Foundation has meant just to North Manchester, among all it does for Wabash County. “The Community Foundation has a special place in North Manchester,” said Penrod, the North Manchester Town Manager. “Prior to the Community

Community Foundation Program Manager Julie Garber chats with clients in her new office.

Wabash Journal | SUMMER 2021 19

Foundation of North Manchester becoming the Wabash County Community Foundation in the early 1990s, the town was the benefactor of many grants that support community projects.

“The project list is long, and the individuals impacted can be summed up to ‘Everyone.’”

“Some include the Scout Hall, the first community pool, the purchase of Halderman Park, the Warvel Park gazebo, the Glenn Ruppel Sports Complex, and, more recently, the Community Foundation aided in the building of the North Manchester Public Library and the Strauss Peabody Aquatic Center, among others in the community.

“One of my favorite expressions is, ‘If you want to go fast, go by yourself. If you want to go far, take other people with you.’” she said. “For all partners, from Grow Wabash County to United Fund, and all the wonderful people we get to work with: We’re going far.”

North Manchester Town Manager Adam Penrod speaks during the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Community Foundation of Wabash County moving back to Main Street.

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Grant concluded the ribbon-cutting ceremony with some final words.

Community Foundation Director of Operations Sam McFadden talks with his grandfather, Dr. Wilbur McFadden in the Strauss Community Room during the open house Thursday, June 24.

Joanne Case (from left), Promise Scholarship Program Director, and Terri Sprunger, Executive Assistant, chat with Emily Boardman during the Community Foundation open house.

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News & Notes Wabash Valley Dance under new ownership Members of the Wabash Valley Dance Theater Board announced the transition of ownership of the Wabash Valley Dance Theater (WVDT) located at 58 W. Canal St. in Wabash. Vickie Lambert retired after 37 years of owning and operating the studio. “It has been a wonderful experience owning the school for 37 years,” Lambert said. “I feel like I had been given a great opportunity to touch so many young lives. Learning to dance is a great gift that I think one will benefit from forever.” The Dance Theater is now fully owned by its Board of Directors. “The board is grateful for Vickie’s commitment to furthering the value of dance in our community and we thank her for her years of dedication and instruction,” said Lindsay Culver, board president. The studio will continue to uphold this legacy and will now operate as a nonprofit organization under the guidance of the new Director, Melissa Ford. Ford is a former dancer of WVDT and will bring her extensive knowledge and experience to this position. “Throughout my childhood, Wabash Valley Dance Theater played a tremendous role in my life,” said Ford. “I was able to learn several styles of dance from caring and knowledgeable instructors, and

through dance, built self-confidence and grace. Dancing on the Ford Theater stage at the Honeywell Center for each recital was also an incredible opportunity. I was honored to be asked to serve as Director, and I look forward to the developments and the work ahead to continue providing a strong dance education for our dancers.” Lisa Mattern will also continue in her role as the Creative Director. With its strong faculty, and building on the tradition set forth by founder Pauline Geyer, the dance studio is poised to continue to serve its students and the community through its dedication to the art of dance and movement. “Wabash Valley Dance Theater has a history of delivering the highest quality of dance training while inspiring selfconfidence, poise, and an appreciation for the performing arts,” said Culver. “The instructors are dedicated to instilling a love of dance while nurturing each student’s talent and creativity.” There will be a registration open house on Friday, Aug. 6, at the studio from 5-8 p.m. For more information, visit the new website at www.wabashvalleydance.org For information on how to support WVDT, contact info@wabashvalleydance. org.

Four Seasons Family Restaurant opens A new restaurant joined the dining scene in Wabash County on Wednesday, June 9. Four Seasons Family Restaurant is now serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, located at 380 Manchester Avenue, Wabash. The restaurant is open every day, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., and open late until 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday. Manager Aggie Hubbard told The Paper of Wabash County that since the opening, the response has been good and continues 22 Wabash Journal | SUMMER 2021

to get better. “More and more people have been finding out that we are open under new ownership and management, so it’s getting better,” she said. Hubbard also shared that the breakfast skillets and the tenderloins are a big hit. Four Seasons is also currently hiring experienced cooks, dish washers, wait staff, preppers, hostess’ and bussers. To apply, call or text 817-666-2602.

News & Notes Beacon becomes White’s Impact Partner to support White’s RFS as an Impact Partner.” By becoming a White’s RFS Impact Partner, businesses not only provide financial support, but also contribute to the future success of teens and families in our community. Beacon Credit Union recently became an Impact Partner of White’s Residential and Family Services. Headquartered in Wabash and with offices all throughout the state, Beacon CU has been helping Hoosiers since 1931 and is the largest agricultural lending credit union in the nation. “We are very fortunate to have a resource such as White’s Residential and Family Services here in Wabash County making an impact with our youth,” said Kevin Willour, President/CEO of Beacon Credit Union. “We understand the importance of investing in our younger generation and are proud

“We are grateful for the investment that Beacon Credit Union is making in the lives of students and their families,” said Shane Whybrew, Director of Donor Stewardship. “Beacon is truly providing new possibilities to students throughout the state through their support of White’s Residential and Family Services.” For more information on how your business or organization can join the mission of White’s RFS, enriching the lives of at-risk kids and families through emotional healing, personal development, and spiritual growth, by becoming an Impact Partner, contact Shane Whybrew, Shane. Whybrew@Whitesrfs.org.

News & Notes Grow Wabash County adds intern Grow Wabash County would like to welcome Manchester University student, Bridget Nash, as the organization’s newest summer marketing intern. Nash is a senior at MU and is double majoring in Digital Media and Marketing. Her strengths include social media and videography. At MU, Nash is a member of the women’s soccer and basketball teams. She is also involved with the MU Dance Marathon, a yearly fundraiser for Riley Hospital for Children, and serves as a photographer and videographer for MU’s Marketing and Sports Information Departments. This is her second summer in Wabash. Last summer, she worked at the Wabash County Museum, also as a marketing intern. She created and curated graphics,

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assisted in the various virtual events hosted by the Museum, and filmed and edited various videos. Grow Wabash County is a strong supporter of internships and truly believes that the connections made between students and employers during these internships are invaluable to both parties. Local business interested in hiring local interns can contact the following internship coordinators: Manchester University: Leticia Kalita 260-982-5025 lnkalita@manchester.edu Heartland Career Center: Brian Evans 260-563-7481 bevans@staff.hcc.k12.in.us Northfield & Southwood High School: Kari Johnson 260-563-8050 johnsonk@msdwc.k12.in.us Manchester Jr-Senior High School: Shelly Leifer 260982-1034 shelly_leifer@mcs.k12.in.us Wabash City Schools: Emily Tracey 260-563-2151 tracye@apaches.k12.in.us

News & Notes Furniture store opens in NM KHome Furniture and Mattress opened at 132 E. Main St. last week, and owner Karina Smith said she is excited to have her store in North Manchester. Smith started selling furniture in Mercedes, Texas, eight years ago. She moved to Indiana in 2016 and started selling furniture on social media and other online market places. “The demand from my customers wanted to see and buy more furniture motivated me to search for a building where I can display my furniture,” Smith said. “While looking around for a building, I ran into the beautiful town of North Manchester and fell in love.”

KHome offers sofas, tables, dining room sets, mattresses, and more. “It is exciting for me to open my store in the morning and take in the smell of wood,” Smith said. “It is a pleasure to serve people with joy when they arrive with a need for a comfortable piece of furniture. Helping to select furniture and give my opinion is the way that I have come to gain the trust of each person who enters my store,” she added. “Of course, this kind treatment of my clients has led me to meet many people through this nice job.” Smith said that while the storefront has a limited display of furniture to look at, they are equipped with catalogs with hundreds of pieces from which to choose. “I thank God for giving me the opportunity of being an entrepreneur in this interesting world of furniture and to establish my store in North Manchester,” Smith said.

Wabash Journal | SUMMER 2021 25

News & Notes South Side Barber Shop receives award The South Side Barber Shop, Wabash, was one of 101 Indiana companies and organizations awarded by Governor Eric Holcomb, with the Governor’s Century or Half Century Business Award in recognition of each company’s longevity and service to its employees, community and the state. “It’s really quite an honor to get this award,” said Ned Vandergrift, current owner and barber at South Side. The shop was started by Vandergrift’s father-in-law, Jim Berry, and his partner, Ted Petitt, 57 years ago. “I’m honored to recognize these dedicated, Hoosier business leaders who have created a lasting impact not only on their communities but to the state as a whole,”

said Gov. Holcomb. “As we continue to attract new jobs and investment to Indiana, these well-established businesses will set the tone for a Hoosier economy dedicated to hard work, constant improvement and strong community roots. “I’m confident these businesses will continue providing great service for the next 100 years and keep Indiana on the path to success for centuries to come.” The Governor’s Century and Half Century Business Awards honor Hoosier businesses that have remained in operation for a minimum of 100 or 50 consecutive years and have demonstrated a commitment to community service. More than 1,160 Indiana companies have been recognized during the award’s 30-year history.

CoCoJo’s cuts ribbon at resort Officials at Grow Wabash County hosted a ribbon cutting for CoCoJo’s, A Zoomers RV Resort, on Friday, June 11. Keith Gillenwater, CEO of Grow Wabash County, welcomed the new resort to the community. “What an amazing facility,” he said. “I had never been out to the facility under its previous ownership so coming here for the first time today, my mind is blown. I had no idea what an awesome facility it is. So hats off to Mike, Tiffany and everyone for all the work they put into making such an asset for our community. This is the kind of place that drives investment into the community. To get people here to enjoy the natural amenities we have and to enjoy the community.” CoCoJo’s, located at 7309 South New Holland Road in Lagro, has 230 seasonal sites and 34 weekend sites as well as tiny home rentals available to help you find the best camping experience for the whole family. The resort also has all of the amenities to create a memorable trip including a pool and splash pad, a variety of athletics fields and courts, camp store and restaurant, arcade and even a pond perfect for fishing, swimming and paddle boarding.

26 Wabash Journal | SUMMER 2021

“We are thrilled to create a like-minded community, full of great amenities and activities for all ages with a strong focus on kids,” said Mike Weaver, owner. “We are building a fun, safe, relaxing and family-friendly campground that will draw a lot of attention to Wabash County and the Salamonie Reservoir. Our ultimate vision for CoCoJo’s is to become an Indiana Top 5 private campground in Northern Indiana.” More information about the campground and how to book your stay can be found on their website at www. cocojosrvcampground.com.

News & Notes 21 teams participate in WACC-Y golf outing

The ever-popular Golf Ball Cannon made its heroic return at the 18 hole, elevating game-play even more. Lunch was provided to all participants, volunteers and sponsors thanks to Food Sponsor, Miller’s Merry Manor.

Grow Wabash County hosted its annual WACC-Y golf outing at the Honeywell Public Golf Course on Wednesday, June 9. After the cancellation of the 2020 outing, the green was filled with golfers, sponsors and investors ready for a good time! On Wednesday afternoon, 21 teams teed off across the course at 1 p.m. With close to a dozen volunteers and hole sponsors, almost every hole had something fun to offer.

The Wings Etc. team were victorious as the 2021 WACCY Golf Grand Champion with a score of 47, and took home the 2021 WACCY Grand Championship belt, a Weber Grill donated by Do It Best Wabash Hardware and a whole package of other prizes. Second and third place in the outing were won by the two teams from Gaunt & Son Asphalt which awarded them goods and prizes including $100 in gift cards donated by the Honeywell Foundation. Other contestants took home their own prize packs filled with goodies from many Grow Wabash County Investors. for winning the Longest Putt, Closest to the Pin, Longest Drive (Men’s), and Longest drive (Women’s). Al Grossnikle, part of the Miller’s Merry Manor team, took home over $100 for winning the Putting Green Contest.

MSD of Wabash County, Four County begin partnership Building new relations in Wabash, Four County signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Metropolitan School District of Wabash County. This partnership now provides access of schoolbased services to students, parents, and educators. As the need for support and mental health services have been on the rise, this agreement comes at a timely manner for both the schools and community members of Wabash County. Showcasing the agency’s hard work toward continued expansion, Four County acknowledges the significance of this growth opportunity. As rural behavioral health specialists, the agency now serves eleven counties in North Central Indiana. Four County continues to challenge itself and team in order to learn, grow, and adapt while increasing access to a continuum of care. “We appreciate our partnership along with the many others who assist the students so we can fulfill our mission of inspiring a community of learners to discover and achieve their passion and potential,” said Mike Keaffaber, Superintendent for MSD of Wabash County. MSD of Wabash County and Four County signed

the MOU in March earlier this year, and have begun working together to identify students in need of school-based mental health services. “It is with great excitement that we have the opportunity to expand our school-based programming into Wabash County and begin to serve Metropolitan School District of Wabash County. We have immediately begun to serve their students and corporation, providing them with social, emotional support and treatment within their schools,” said Lisa Willis-Gidley, Vice President of Operations with Four County. Four County has designed its school-based programming to meet the unique needs of school partners and are aligned with state educational initiatives. School-based supports can include: Therapists, School Psychologists, and Skills Trainers. School-based Skills Trainers are assigned to schools to support students who have emotional or behavioral difficulties that have a negative impact on academic and social performance in schools. Currently serving 29 school corporations and providing on-site services to 105 school buildings, Four County continues to grow and meet the need for rural behavioral health specialists through “Better Care, Better Together.” Wabash Journal | SUMMER 2021 27

News & Notes ‘Tailgating on the Farm’ begins Hawkins Family Farm began hosting “ Ta i l g a t i n g on the Farm,” a safe and adventurous way to enjoy good food in a secure setting among appropriately spaced good neighbors on a pretty little Indiana farm, on June 4.

and remaining safely socially distant!

From 5-7 p.m., diners will be able to order online or in person their all-natural, locally-sourced artisan pizzas baked in an outdoor, wood-fired brick oven at Hawkins Family Farm. Those wishing to remain on the farm may do so by parking in a numbered 32x25ft picnic spot, which are first come, first serve. Their order is delivered to their spot, all while enjoying the farm’s natural beauty

All profits from Fridays on the Farm benefit HOPE CSA, a non-profit ecumenical teaching ministry that offers a course of experiential learning and academic study to assist pastors to become healthier and more effective leaders. Sponsorships are available at https:// www.hopecsa.org/store-2/p/fridays-on-the-farmsponsorship.

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“Tailgating on the Farm was a success last year! We are fortunate that we can continue to offer folks a way to get out of the house and gather on our farm with friends and family in a safe way.” says HOPE CSA Executive Director Jeff Hawkins. Standard pizzas range from $10-20, payable by credit card or Apple Pay. Weekly our resident chef crafts specialty pizzas featuring seasonal ingredients in addition to the standard pizza menu that includes the traditional margherita, sausage, pepperoni and ham using products from Hawkins Farm. Carry out is also available.

News & Notes Ruoff Mortage opens Wabash office The ribbon was cut June 10 at Wabash’s office of Ruoff Mortgage. The business is located in 1146-A N. Cass St., in the Shoppers Mart. Jennifer Meyer, along with Ruoff’s Chief Lending Officer Clint Morgan, will oversee operations in the Wabash office. “One of the biggest challenges we face in the community is housing,” Keith Gillenwater, President and CEO of Grow Wabash County, said during a brief ceremony. “So, having a housing service provider that can come in and help people get into a home is awesome. “As we grow and more families are moving into Wabash and people are building their lives, people like Jennifer are more important than ever to help those families.” He thanked the company for its investment in the county.

years, said she, “I’m just thankful for this opportunity, and I’m glad to be a part of the Ruoff team.”

Mayor Scott Long also welcomed the business to the city.

Ruoff Mortgage is a full-service residential mortgage company with 70+ locations throughout the Midwest and originates in 45 states through their online consumer direct division. They have been ranked on the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies in America list for eight consecutive years and have appeared in the Top 100 Mortgage Companies in America and Top Mortgage Employer lists by several industry publications.

“We’ve been working on some housing additions for four years, now, and we’re getting ready, hopefully, to build a boatload of houses, so it’s going to be vitally important,” he said of the business. Meyer, who has been in the financial industry for 17

Phillipy named to City Schools position Officials from Wabash City Schools, the Wabash City School Board of Trustees and district leadership have announced the appointment of Beth Phillipy to Director of Social and Emotional Learning for Wabash City Schools. Phillipy has served as a special education teacher for Wabash City Schools and most recently served as the Assistant Principal at O.J. Neighbours Elementary School. She has a Bachelors in English Secondary Education from Ball State, Masters in Special Education and Administration from WGU and Certification in Applied Educational Neuroscience from Butler. With this position, Phillipy will be serving in this capacity by partnering with the community and district

staff to ensure an integrated approach is practiced to address students’ behavioral, social and emotional learning, and mental health needs in service of the Wabash City Schools strategic plan. “I am excited to be allowed the opportunity to lead WCS in the development and implementation of Social Emotional Learning into our classrooms,” said Phillipy. “The need to provide this support to students and staff is paramount, especially following the pandemic and all of the challenges which came with it. Our SEL Team will be created and include stakeholders from all areas and will provide resources and training for teachers and staff as well as interventions for our students to meet their needs where they are at. This is a great opportunity for our district to grow in an ever-changing world.” Wabash Journal | SUMMER 2021 29

News & Notes City hosts gathering of mayoral assistants The week of April 21, was a busy week in Wabash. Beverly Vanderpool, Assistant to Mayor Scott Long and President of the Indiana Mayor’s Assistants, hosted the group’s annual three-day conference here in Wabash. Mayoral assistants from all over Indiana gathered at the Charley Creek Inn for a time of meetings and fellowship. While in Wabash the group took a ride on Trolley 85, to see some of the unique sites around Wabash. The tour was directed by Jennifer Long-Dillon, Visit Wabash County. They also spent time at The Sanctuary Retreat Center, where they had pizza and a craft making session. Another evening was spent at the Eagles Theatre, Parkview Ballroom. The assistants also took part in a scavenger hunt that took them to downtown businesses.

Convention workshop presenters were: Christine Flohr, Executive Director of Visit Wabash County; Kyndra Baldwin, Creative Crafts; Vickie Simpson, The Breathing Room, Peru; and Angie Vanderpool, Accountability Buddy For Hire, Indianapolis, Indiana.

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On Friday, April 23, Mayor Long hosted a luncheon in the Eagles Theater Ballroom. A group of 85 Northern Indiana mayors, government representatives and associates from throughout Indiana attended the lunch and meeting. They also toured the Eagles Theatre.

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Visitors from both meetings were very impressed with the City of Wabash and were excited to take ideas to their cities that they garnered during their visit here. Visitors also were impressed with the friendly atmosphere and all there is to do in the city.

c c M D u T s m i

Zartman graduates from Economic Development Institute Grow Wabash County officials are proud to announce Tenille Zartman graduated from the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute (OU EDI) on April 29, 2021 at the OU EDI Spring session. Zartman is vice president of Grow Wabash County. OU EDI is an intensive 117-hour certificate program which provides a broad spectrum of advanced education for the economic development professional. “OU EDI is the premier organization dedicated to training economic development professionals,” Mark James, Zartman’s mentor and current Dean of OU EDI, said. “These graduates represent some of the finest economic development practitioners in the U.S. working to support their local communities.” OU EDI classes focus on three major core areas including: Business Retention and Expansion, Real Estate, and Credit Analysis, as well as areas of concentration in Workforce Development, Marketing, Strategic Planning, Entrepreneurship, Community & Neighborhood Development, and Managing Economic Development Organizations. Students 30 Wabash Journal | SUMMER 2021

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typically take 1-3 years to complete the program through a series of intensive inperson and online courses. Zartman said, “I would like to thank the Grow Wabash County team for championing this endeavor, the Indiana Economic Development Association for two scholarships, and the community for fueling my passion furthermore for this industry. “It is clear when I’m surrounded by Economic Development Professionals from across the U.S. that Wabash County is uniquely positioned with world-class assets and amazing people. I look forward to applying best practices and newfound knowledge from these courses to better serve our people and communities of Wabash County.” Following graduation from the OU EDI Institute, Zartman plans to sit for the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) through the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). The CEcD program is the most prestigious, comprehensive designation in the economic development profession that enhances the knowledge and performance of economic developers.

News & Notes Parkview Wabash offers Medical Detox service Quitting an addiction to drugs or alcohol is a challenging process that can be stressful for the body. To help individuals through the early physical symptoms of withdrawal, Parkview Wabash Hospital now offers Medical Detox service. Medical Detox is a voluntary, short-term, inpatient service providing medical monitoring for potential health risks during withdrawal. It is available to adults age 18 and older who are motivated to end their dependence on alcohol, opioids or other addictive substances, but need medical supervision. “Withdrawal can be difficult and uncomfortable, and it can be even more complex if someone has a serious health condition, or is at risk for developing one,” said Marilyn CusterMitchell, president, Parkview Wabash Hospital. “Our Medical Detox service provides a safe environment for withdrawal under the supervision of our trained nursing professionals. The individual is admitted to our general medical unit for a short stay, during which the nurses monitor symptoms and manage discomfort while respecting that person’s needs as an individual.”

During the stay, inpatient nurses also educate the individual about the withdrawal process. Individuals may self-refer for Medical Detox or be referred by a physician, another healthcare provider, or a community service provider. Admission for the service is by appointment only, Monday through Friday. The on-site coordinator assists with admission and discharge to the next level of support services, which could include any combination of inpatient rehab, outpatient therapy, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT), depending on need. For information, call Parkview Wabash’s Medical Detox coordinator at 260-569-2155. The Parkview Wabash Hospital campus is located just south of U.S. 24 in Wabash, between North Wabash Street and Alber Street. Per Parkview Health policy, masks and social distancing are required during any visit.

News & Notes Ellis named to WMI position Officials at Wabash Marketplace have named Morgan Ellis its Public Relations & Marketing Manager, beginning fulltime on Wednesday, May 19. Ellis will leave The Honeywell Foundation, where she was the PR & Marketing Coordinator since July 2019. “Our work at Wabash Marketplace has changed over the years. Downtown revitalization now includes social media, online presence and public relations. Morgan will grow our reach in the digital era, while the organization continues to focus on historic preservation, community events and downtown ambience,” Wabash Marketplace Executive Director Andrea Zwiebel said.

Ellis graduated from the University of Indianapolis in May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in Communication and emphases in Journalism and Public Relations. Raised in Columbia City, she appreciates small towns and opportunities that come with them. “As a growing Wabash County resident, I am beyond thrilled to be working alongside Andrea of Wabash Marketplace,” Ellis said. “I have a passion for small businesses and thriving communities and Wabash contains both. For me, there’s nothing more exciting than being involved with my community so this position with Wabash Marketplace is going to be so exciting.” Ellis enjoys visiting local businesses in Wabash and surrounding cities, spending time with friends, managing her boutique PR firm, taking spin classes at the Wabash County YMCA and chilling with her two cats, Vlad and Enzo.

Farm Bureau awards 6 scholarships The Wabash County Farm Bureau has announced the winners of six, $750 scholarships awarded to Wabash County youth. Recipients are: Lena Cordes, daughter of Jared and Erica Cordes. She is majoring in English language arts, teaching with a minor in Spanish. Lingjun Fu, daughter of Charles William Reed. She is majoring in general management with a minor in prelaw or international studies.

Joseph Leland, son of Donald and Tyann Leland. He is majoring in general business and administration. Carly Hawkins, daughter of John and Cindy Hawkins. She is double majoring in marketing and communications with a potential minor in non-profit administration. Carter Wilcox, son of Doug and Amy Wilcox. He is majoring in medium and heavy diesel technology. Riley Whitesel, son of Matt Whitesel. He is majoring in agriculture economics.

Northfield, Sharp Creek named Family Friendly Schools Northfield Jr./Sr. High School and Sharp Creek Elementary School were two of more than 30 Indiana schools that were designated as 2021-2022 Family Friendly Schools by the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE). The schools designated, which span across the state, and include public and nonpublic schools, are demonstrating excellence in engaging families in their children’s education. “We know that educating a child is a team effort that involves all of us, with families at the core,” said Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education. “These schools have jumped in to evaluate their practices and engage a variety of stakeholders, ensuring students receive the well-rounded support they need at school, at home, and throughout the community.” Launched in 2015, the Family Friendly Schools designation focuses on addressing the academic, 32 Wabash Journal | SUMMER 2021

physical, emotional, and social needs of students, while providing the needed resources and fostering the active involvement of their families through schools and the community. The program recognizes and honors schools that welcome all families into the school community, communicate effectively, support student success, speak up for every child, share power and collaborate with the community. “The Sharp Creek staff works extremely hard to be family friendly,” Joel Martin, Sharp Creek principal, told The Paper of Wabash County. “This recognition is specifically a result of the 2019-20 school staff’s work to meet and document the criteria of the Family Friendly School status.” Officials from Northfield Jr./Sr. High School were not available to comment at press time.

News & Notes Grow Wabash County receives Duke grant Grow Wabash County was one of 18 economic development groups around Indiana to share $90,000 award by Duke for the 2021 Marketing Partnership Program. Each group was awarded $5,000. “Duke Energy is committed to strengthening collaborative efforts with our local and regional economic development partners,” said Erin Schneider, Indiana director of economic development for Duke Energy. “These grants provide those partners with resources to fund marketing and strategic efforts that result in new jobs and investments in the communities we serve.”

Energy is a great economic development partner and we are excited about the possibilities this opens up for us.” To qualify for program consideration, each applicant must submit a plan that has a direct impact on the community’s economic growth and supports Duke Energy’s economic development goals. Grant funding does not include travel, lodging, food and beverage and entertainment expenses.

Grow Wabash County officials were pleased to be recognized. “We are grateful for the continued support we have been able to receive from Duke Energy through the Marketing Partnership program. This program will allow us to further equip our marketing and talent attraction program with talent research tools and support our Grow Wabash County employers in their talent recruitment efforts.” Said Keith Gillenwater, president & CEO of Grow Wabash County. “Duke

Beacon donates to White’s Catapult Training System Beacon Credit Union recently donated $5,000 to White’s Residential and Family Services (WRFS) for its new Catapult Training System. The donation helps bring the innovative, industry-led advanced manufacturing program to Wabash Campus adding to WRFS vocational opportunity, Growing Teens for Life. White’s has helped families in crisis, in transition and in need of support through its accredited and comprehensive continuum of community- and home-based services, foster care, adoption and residential treatment programs. “We are very fortunate to have a resource such as White’s Residential and Family Services here in Wabash County,” said Kevin Willour, President/CEO of Beacon Credit Union. “We are proud to continue our support of this organization and the youth of our area.” Beacon Credit Union proudly supports WRFS as an Impact Partner and investing into students’ lives. Wabash Journal | SUMMER 2021 33

Si lEy named City SChoolS Superintendent By Mandy Mahan

career ready for success in a global community. Amy Sivley has been selected as the next Wabash City Schools superintendent. She will replace Jason Callahan, who resigned earlier this year to take a post with the Indiana Department of Education. Sivley has 27 years of public education experience and, if formally approved by the board, will assume her superintendent responsibilities on July 1, 2021.

During the recruitment process, Dr. Michael Adamson of the Indiana School Boards Association consulted with Wabash City Schools for a nationwide superintendent search. The board of education held meetings with each district building and the community to lend perspective on the attributes sought in the next superintendent. “The meetings held with staff and the community were extremely valuable in lending perspective as to what mattered most to our staff and community stakeholders,” WCS Board President Rod Kelsheimer said. “It was apparent from those meetings we needed to find someone that would be able to build upon what we are already doing and continue to move our district forward. We looked for someone that had a proven record of leadership, could build relationships, and would drive instruction throughout our district. We also felt it was important to find someone that would be involved not only with our schools, but with the greater Wabash community as well. We have great community partners and it is important that we are able to maintain and strengthen those relationships to provide opportunities for our students.”

“What really set Amy apart was the variety of experience she has gained over a 27-year career in public education and her reputation as someone who gets results,” said Kelsheimer. “She has spent time in the classroom as a teacher and has been a varsity coach. She has experience as a building administrator having served as an assistant principal/athletic director and as a building principal. She also brings central office experience having been both the HR Director and Accountability Director for Warsaw Community Schools. This background will serve her well and make for a smooth transition into a superintendent role.” She began her career in education as a business teacher at Bluffton High School and has held various administrator positions with Warsaw Community Schools for most of the past 17 years. Those roles include Assistant Middle School Principal and Athletic Director, Gateway Education Center Principal, Chief Accountability Officer, and Director of Human Resources. She is currently at Lakeview Middle School principal. Sivley holds a Bachelor of Science in business education from Ball State University, Master of Science in educational leadership from Indiana University/Purdue University Fort Wayne, and an education specialist degree in educational leadership from Ball State University. She is currently working on her Doctorate of Education in educational leadership from Ball State University. Kelsheimer told The Paper of Wabash County that he looks forward to bringing Sivley on board and allowing her the opportunity to meet staff, students and community. “We believe she is a great fit and will be an exceptional superintendent for Wabash City Schools,” he said.

“The board met and discussed all 14 applicants and their application package,” Kelsheimer told The Paper of Wabash County. “Interviews were scheduled with five of the applicants. After conducting in person interviews with the five candidates, the board felt two stood out above the rest and second interviews were scheduled.”

“The board would be remiss if we did not take the opportunity to thank our administrators, teachers, and staff for their support throughout this process,” said Kelsheimer. “Their dedication to our students and school system cannot be overstated and is very much appreciated. The board would like to especially thank Mrs. Emily Tracy and Mr. Matt Stone for their assistance through this transition period. Both of these individuals took on a greater workload by dividing the responsibilities of the superintendent and ensured the day to day operations of the district continued to run smoothly.”

Sivley has a proven track record of leadership focused on instruction. She has excellent communication skills and the innate ability to collaborate with and develop those around her. These qualities make her especially qualified to lead Wabash City School Mission of providing a relevant and rigorous education, founded upon relationships, to ensure each student is college and

According to a posting on the City Schools’ website, Sivley will be offered a three-year contract with a base salary of $114,000, plus benefits. The board will meet at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 5, to discuss and hear objections to and support for the proposed contract. The meeting will be at Wabash City Hall, 202 S. Wabash St.

After receiving input from community members, administrators, teachers, and staff, interviews were conducted and Sivley was selected from 14 applicants.

34 Wabash Journal | SUMMER 2021

Galley named new Wabash County Museum director Teresa Galley is the new executive director of the Wabash County Museum, officials with the facility’s Board of Directors announced Monday.

Foundation, where she converted a school assembly booking program into a comprehensive arts-in-education program in schools across Northern Indiana. Her passion is for building and supporting programs that enhance the lives of children and families.

She will replace Mitch Figert, who resigned the position earlier this year.

Community is also important and, in that capacity, Galley has served on the Paradise Spring Historical Park board, as a past president of the Wabash Rotary Club, on the Community Foundation of Wabash County’s program committee, on the Wabash County Hospital Foundation board, and on the President’s Leadership Council at Manchester University.

Galley is a Wabash County native who graduated from Southwood High School before attending Indiana University, Bloomington, to pursue a degree in Communications Studies & Theatre. She currently resides in Wabash with her husband, Jeff, Wabash High School assistant principal, and her 16-year-old son, Will. The Galleys also have a daughter, Catherine, who lives and works in Indianapolis. Before joining the museum, Galley worked with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Fort Wayne as their Director of Grant Administration & Implementation. For the previous nine years, she was the Director of Education & Outreach for the Honeywell

“There is so much potential for the museum to function as a placemaker for our community and beyond,” Galley said. It can be an educational tool that shows us where we come from and plays a role in the trajectory of our community for the future. It should attract tourism to the county, be the must-do field trip for teachers across the region, and be part of the reason a family decides to call Wabash County home. “There are so many untapped opportunities and I am excited to work with the amazing team that is already in place to make them a reality.”

Wabash Journal | SUMMER 2021 35

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Wabash Journal | SUMMER 2021 37

AGVENTURE MCKILLIP SEEDS UNVEILS SOYBEAN PRODUCTION PLANT AgVenture McKillip Seeds based in Wabash, recently unveiled a brand-new soybean production plant. The 84-by-64 square foot facility offers state-of-the-art technologies and innovative systems that extend the company’s soybean processing capacity by more than five-fold. In addition, a new 180-by-120 square foot warehousing facility will be completed this summer. “This extensive investment in proficiency and impeccable quality represents our commitment to our customers and their profitable future,” said Troy McKillip, owner at AgVenture McKillip Seed. He said the new facility is designed and developed for their customers’ benefit. “As technologies advance on the farm, we work hard to bring the cutting-edge science to the seed. “Our investment in this soybean production facility offers our growing customer base the very best in soybean seed care. The technologies and equipment we have in our soybean processing plant allow us to meticulously handle soybeans and to precisely apply and distribute seed treatment products for optimal performance.” More capacity and the latest in color sorters, new cleaners, bucketed belts, and more make for ease of handling of soybeans. “That means our customers have more expedient access to their soybean seed, processed, treated, and ready for them. It’s faster and much more responsive so we can meet the customers’ demand

38 Wabash Journal | SUMMER 2021

much faster in-season,” McKillip added. In addition, the new plant’s innovative design and equipment help make the plant safer for employees while taking the quality of the seed handling to a higher level. Mitch Snyder, AgVenture McKillip Seed Marketing Manager added, “We have always worked with and for our customers. We work hard together to bring them best seed products – specifically adapted to their soils, conditions, and growing environments. The new plant brings exacting precision to seed treatment application. The value that brings our customers is so important in making them more profitable today and for the future. We are really pleased to see what a difference it will make already in the 2021 crop.” AgVenture Business Development Manager, Chuck Schneider said, “We are very proud to recognize McKillip Seed’s progressive commitment to the precision and accuracy that directly impact their customers’ bottom lines. The forward-thinking and innovative science they’ve incorporated into the facility will benefit their customers and the community for years to come.” Since 1935, the McKillip Family has served the area’s agricultural community providing leading-edge seed products and professional seed support. Now, four generations of family members continue the tradition of enhancing their customers’ ability to farm profitably and exceed their farming objectives. AgVenture McKillip Seeds is proud to be part of AgVenture for the past decade and a half, a relationship that has supported their independence and access to unique seed genetics developed to perform optimally in the local soils and growing conditions.