News for Community
Monday, June 22, 2026
Join the Upland Community Market this summer at their brand new location (Depot Park-107 Railroad Street)!
Friday, July 10th-Touch a Truck
June 26th, July 17th, and Augist 21st-Homeschool Book Sale
Friday, July 24th-Young Entrepreneur Market
Friday, July 31st-Bounce House Night
Categories: General News Article, Press Release, Community
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Looking for a delicious way to support the local community? Tonight, Thursday, June 18, Texas Roadhouse in Marion is hosting a special Dine to Donate fundraiser to benefit the Grant County Fair Association.
The event will run from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM. During these hours, Texas Roadhouse will generously donate 10% of food and non-alcoholic beverage sales directly back to the Fair Association to ...read more
Categories: Chamber, Community, Press Release
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Categories: Human Interest, Community, Press Release
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Radiant Health has been awarded a $10,000 grant from the
Community Foundation of Grant County to support improvements at Stepping Stone, a vital residential program providing behavioral health services in the community.
The funding, awarded May 15, 2026, will be used to enhance safe, dignified living environments for individuals receiving care through Stepping Stone. This investment reflects a ...read more
Categories: Healthcare, Community, Press Release
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Leaf Bag Pickup is running behind due to the higher priority given to large limbs downed by the storms last week. We thank you for your patience and understanding.
Categories: Press Release, Community
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
WE PUT THE YEE-HAW INTO FUNDRAISING!
Where else can you raise money for your organization while eating a Hand-Cut Steak and Fall-Off-The-Bone Ribs? At Texas Roadhouse, of course! Any non-profit or community organization can apply to hold a fundraiser on a designated night, and 10% of your event sales will be donated back to your group. It's an easy way to show support for your group and eat at ...read more
Categories: Community, Press Release
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
The Marion Skatepark Project crowdfunding campaign is now live.
We’re working to create a safe, high-quality recreational space for Marion’s youth, families, and community. To secure a $50,000 matching grant, we must raise $50,000 in community donations by July 31st, 2026.
Every contribution helps move this project forward.
Donate today: ...read more
Categories: Community, Press Release
Monday, June 15, 2026
As of June 10, 2026, Wiggly Field Dog Park is not yet open.
We know many of you and your furry friends have been excitedly waiting for opening day. While we’re disappointed that the park isn’t quite ready, our top priority is ensuring it’s fully up to code and provides a safe, fun, and enjoyable experience for everyone who visits.
We appreciate your patience and ...read more
Categories: Community, Press Release
Monday, June 15, 2026
The City of Marion has been awarded a $750,000 grant from the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI) to implement the One Marion, GIANT Care Behavioral Health Intervention Program, an innovative initiative designed to support youth experiencing behavioral health challenges and reduce involvement in the juvenile justice system.
The One Marion, GIANT Care ...read more
Categories: Community, Healthcare, Press Release
Monday, June 15, 2026
Marion, IN – June 10, 2026 – Every person in Grant County deserves the opportunity to thrive. That belief is the foundation of everything United Way of Grant County does - and it is what brought a new community resource to life.
United Way of Grant County is proud to announce the official launch of the Grant County Volunteer Hub, a free online platform connecting residents, families, and ...read more
Categories: Education, Community, Press Release
Tuesday, June 09, 2026
Get ready for A Night to Remember with DCOM: Live!, the ultimate tribute concert celebrating Disney Channel Original Movies. This high-energy production features six Broadway-caliber vocalists and a dynamic live band performing fan-favorite songs from Zenon to Zombies!
Featured FavoritesHigh School MusicalCamp RockThe Cheetah GirlsDescendantsHannah MontanaLizzie McGuireThe Jonas ...read more
Categories: Community, Art & Entertainment, Press Release
Monday, June 08, 2026
KOKOMO, Ind. — IU Kokomo students, faculty, and staff will continue efforts to restore Kokomo Creek with grant funding from theNorthern Indiana Public Service Company LLC (NIPSCO) and the NiSource Charitable Foundation.
The campus was one of 25 local nonprofit organizations selected to receive a 2026 Environmental Action Grant, an annual NIPSCO and NiSource Charitable Foundation program that ...read more
Categories: Community, Education, Press Release
Monday, June 08, 2026
The City of Marion has launched a public crowdfunding campaign to support the development of a new skatepark at Hogin Park, creating a dedicated recreational space for youth, families, and visitors in one of the city’s most active public parks. The City has secured most of the funding needed for the project through a Parks Bond issued in December 2025, and is now ...read more
Categories: Community, Press Release
Monday, June 08, 2026
The City of Marion and the Marion Redevelopment Commission (RDC) are partnering with entrepreneur Mike Martin to bring the Impact X program to Marion, expanding opportunities for local residents to develop and launch new businesses.
Impact X is a free community-based class designed to help participants turn ideas into viable businesses and community ...read more
Categories: Community, Economic, Press Release
Monday, June 08, 2026
The 18th Annual Ice Cream Social is happening this June 27th and 28th at 36 Northeast Indiana and Northwest Ohio ice cream shops across the 15 NE Indiana and NW Ohio counties we serve.
In Grant County, we have partnered with Ashley’s Ice Cream Café in Marion. We will have volunteers on site specifically on Saturday, June 27th, however, Ashley’s will be partnering with us for the entire month of ...read more
Categories: Community, Press Release
Friday, June 05, 2026
Marion Health to host Wellness Wednesday on June 24th, featuring a Community Lab Draw Day and Healthy Kids Fair.
Offerings include:
FREE blood pressure screening$20 wellness panel (fasting required)Photo scavenger huntBalloonsObstacle courseTouch-a-truck experience
Scan the QR code below to learn more about what the wellness screen includes.
Categories: Community, Healthcare
Tuesday, June 02, 2026
View the June calendar featuring open skate sessions, lessons, parties, and special events.
Categories: Community, Press Release
Tuesday, June 02, 2026
Sponsorship opportunities for the Amplify Marion Music & Food Festival are now available. The event will take place on September 19th at Matter Park and feature local and nationally acclaimed performing artists. Entry is free for all ages, and the event is hosted by the City of Marion. For more information, contact: Marion Parks & Recreation DepartmentMichelle Pond mpond@cityofmarion.in.gov | ...read more
Categories: Community, Art & Entertainment, Press Release
Monday, June 01, 2026
MFD Fire Prevention Chief Brandon Eckstein Retires after 20 Years of ServiceShareemailfacebooklinkedin
Jun 1, 2026 | Web Administrator
Fire Prevention Chief Brandon Eckstein is retiring after 20 years of service with the Marion Fire Department.
The Marion native called home to many places including overseas while his father served in the military, then settled in Tennessee ...read more
Categories: Community, Press Release
Monday, June 01, 2026
Surf Internet representatives accept the 2026 Star Award during the Fiber Broadband Association’s Fiber Connect conference in Orlando, Florida. Pictured from left are FBA President and CEO Gary Bolton and Surf Internet team members Gene Crusie, Kevin Bush, Mary Moran, and Amber Rodriguez.
National recognition highlights Surf’s leadership in expanding fiber broadband in rural communities
ELKHART, ...read more
Categories: Community, Press Release
Thursday, May 28, 2026
In Season 2, Episode 10 of How Marion Works, we pull back the curtain on local infrastructure with Sherry Loshnowsky, the Communications Specialist with Marion Utilities.
Listen to the full episode here.
Categories: Political, Community, Press Release
Thursday, May 28, 2026
Wiley Metal is proud to announce that eight of the eleven students who participated in the Wiley Metal Internship Program during the 2025–2026 school year have accepted full-time summer positions with the company.
Over the course of the school year, participating high school students contributed a combined 2,031 internship hours, marking the first full year of a collaborative internship ...read more
Categories: Community, General News Article, Chamber, Education, Press Release
Wednesday, May 27, 2026
On Saturday, June 20 at 1:00 PM, Torianna McNair will present “The Legends, the Legacies, the Heart: Black History Stories in Our Chronicle-Tribune Photo Collection.” McNair will share a selection of stories found in her research of Black history photographs in the History Center's Chronicle-Tribune photo collection. This event will be hosted in the Forrest Room, located on the third floor of the ...read more
Categories: Art & Entertainment, Education, Community, Press Release
Cox Honored with John Niederman Rural Development Leadership Award for 20 Years of Dedicated Service
Wednesday, May 27, 2026
The Affordable Housing Corporation is proud to celebrate Lorri Cox for receiving the John Niederman Rural Development Leadership Award at the Prosperity Indiana 2026 Summit.
Cox was honored for her 20 years of dedicated service through the Affordable Housing Corporation and her lasting impact on the Grant County community through housing and rural development efforts.
The John Niederman ...read more
Categories: Press Release, Community
Tuesday, May 26, 2026
Artwork created by an IU Kokomo sculpture class enhances the experience of local mini golfers at the newly opened Kokomo Little Links.
Students in a sculpture class led by Gregory Steel, professor of fine arts, created two large-scale metal sculptures for the miniature golf course, built in Cutler Park and operated by Bridges Outreach.
The first, titled Bridge, includes three metal pillars ...read more
Categories: Community, Art & Entertainment, Education, Press Release
Tuesday, May 26, 2026
IU Kokomo junior thrower Sydney Duncan continued one of the most dominant weeks in program history Friday afternoon, capturing the discus national championship at the 2026 NAIA Outdoor Track & Field National Championships, hosted by University of North Carolina at Asheville.
With the victory, Duncan becomes just the second female athlete in NAIA history to sweep the hammer throw, shot put, ...read more
Categories: Education, Community, Press Release
Friday, May 22, 2026
Categories: Community, Press Release
Friday, May 22, 2026
Community invited to volunteer, sponsor, and support the 10th year of free programming
MARION, Ind. — This summer marks a major milestone as Superhero Camp celebrates its 10th year of helping children discover the strengths they already carry inside themselves.
Hosted by Lark’s Song, Superhero Camp is a free five-day experience designed to help children build emotional intelligence, ...read more
Categories: Community, Education, Press Release
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Marion Arts Commission is thrilled to introduce our brand new summer concert series, Gather At 202, kicking off at Penrod Plaza!
Through the support of the Indiana Arts Commission, every Friday night we’re bringing you great tunes, good community vibes, and the perfect excuse to kick off your weekend right. High volume, low maintenance—just the way summer should be.
Here is everything you need ...read more
Categories: Community, Art & Entertainment
Monday, May 18, 2026
Join us on May 22nd for the first Upland Community Market of 2026. Pappie's Smokehouse and Los Compadres will be serving up some of their most popular dishes!
Categories: Press Release, Community
Monday, May 18, 2026
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. —Student-athletes from Indiana University Kokomo claimed four of the six awards given at theinaugural IU Regional Campus Athletics Awards Celebration.
The brought together the top student-athletes, coaches, and teams from across five IU regional campuses — IU Kokomo, IU East, IU Northwest, IU South Bend, and IU Southeast — to recognize excellence in athletics, academics, ...read more
Categories: Press Release, Community, Education
Monday, May 18, 2026
KOKOMO, Ind. — A lot of late-night study sessions made Brandon Maish’s Indiana University Kokomo degree possible.
As he celebrated Commencement Thursday with his classmates, he commemorated his journey to degrees in history and political science, and criminal justice, by decorating his mortarboard, or cap, making it uniquely his in a sea of black-robed graduates.
He was one of many in the more ...read more
Categories: Press Release, Education, Community
Sunday, May 17, 2026
State approves Marion School Board’s new election districts
The state has approved an amended organization plan for the Marion Community Schools Board of School Trustees that changes the way its members are elected.
On October 28, 2025, the Marion School Board voted to adopt the plan. After completing all legal requirements, the plan was submitted to the Indiana State Board of Education ...read more
Categories: Education, Press Release, Community, Political
Thursday, May 14, 2026
What happens when you mix a passion for speed with a love for local flavor? In this episode, we’re joined by Tyler and Abby Hewitt, the powerhouse co-owners of Ashley's Ice Cream Cafe. We dive into their journey of entrepreneurship, from balancing the fast-paced world of racing to building a beloved local staple that serves up more than just sweet treats.
Hear the story of how they’ve grown ...read more
Categories: Press Release, Community
Thursday, May 14, 2026
I&M has launched a new Bill Support Center designed to give customers clearer, easier access to information about their electric bills, rate options, and available programs to help manage energy costs.
The Bill Support Center is a one‑stop shop for residential customers across our service territory. It brings together tools and resources to answer common questions such as what’s included in ...read more
Categories: Community, Press Release
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Categories: Community, Press Release
Thursday, April 30, 2026
KOKOMO, Ind. — As Gracie McClain’s parents drove her to an emergency room, she couldn’t help but think her lifelong dream of becoming a dentist was gone.
“It was really scary,” she said. “I temporarily lost my ability to speak properly. Everything that came out of my mouth was gibberish, and I couldn’t see very well. It was a very unusual experience.”
McClain, who was 17 at the time, learned ...read more
Categories: Human Interest, Community, Education
Thursday, April 30, 2026
KOKOMO, Ind. — When the 63rd annual Howard County Science Fair takes place in February 2027, it will include a new logo created by an Indiana University Kokomo student.
Erika Creighton’s design was chosen from eight submitted by students in the Identity, Design, and Branding class taught by Michael Koerner, associate professor of new media, who said the project mimicked the competitive process ...read more
Categories: Education, Press Release, Community
Wednesday, April 29, 2026
Marion High School’s next athletic director is a familiar face, as he has been a part of the MHS staff for many years. Nate Larson will take the reins for MHS athletics, building on his experience as a teacher and a coach.
The Marion Community Schools Board of School Trustees approved his hiring as Marion High School athletic director at their regular meeting on April 28. He will start ...read more
Categories: Community, Education
Wednesday, April 29, 2026
Marion High School Alumni Association is pleased to announce 45 scholarship awards totaling more than $37,000 for 20 outstanding Marion High School graduating seniors!
MHSAA is proud to note that this is another record-setting amount, and it includes two new scholarships awarded for the first time this year. MHSAA is grateful for our collaborative relationship with Marion Community Schools and ...read more
Categories: Community, Press Release, Education
Friday, April 24, 2026
STEPS OF HONOR VETERANS WALK
Join us for Steps of Honor, a community walk honoring the men and women who served our country
Saturday, November 7
Mississinewa High School Track
HONOR SPONSOR
$1,000Limited availabilityLarge logo on event shirtsEvent signageSocial media recognition5 registrations
PATRIOT SPONSOR
$500Business name on event shirtsEvent signageSocial media recognition3 ...read more
Categories: Community, Press Release
Tuesday, April 21, 2026
[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 ...read more
Categories: Community, Press Release, Education
Tuesday, April 21, 2026
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 ...read more
Categories: Community, Press Release, Education
Tuesday, April 14, 2026
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 ...read more
Categories: Press Release, Community
Tuesday, April 14, 2026
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
Categories: Community, Art & Entertainment
Tuesday, April 14, 2026
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
Categories: Art & Entertainment, Community, Press Release
Friday, April 03, 2026
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, ...read more
Categories: Press Release, Art & Entertainment, Community, Education, Human Interest
Friday, April 03, 2026
Catch the Latest How Marion Works Podcast ft. Lisa Edwards of MFD
Categories: Art & Entertainment, Community, General News Article, Human Interest, Press Release
Thursday, April 02, 2026
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 ...read more
Categories: Community, Press Release, General News Article, Chamber
Tuesday, March 17, 2026
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 ...read more
Categories: Economic, Chamber, Press Release, General News Article, Community
Friday, March 13, 2026
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 ...read more
Categories: Chamber, Community, Press Release, General News Article
Thursday, March 12, 2026
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 ...read more
Categories: Chamber, Community, General News Article, Press Release
Friday, January 16, 2026
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 ...read more
Categories: Chamber, Community, General News Article, Press Release
Wednesday, October 15, 2025
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 ...read more
Categories: Chamber, General News Article, Community, Press Release
Friday, September 26, 2025
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 ...read more
Categories: Chamber, Community, General News Article, Press Release
Friday, June 27, 2025
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 ...read more
Categories: Community, Press Release, Chamber, General News Article