​Generates comprehensive economic data to support the vitality of the Eastern Indiana and Western Ohio regions.
Goal 1.1: Establish a centralized digital dashboard to house regional economic indicators, ensuring that 100% of data sets for the majority of IU East service counties in Eastern Indiana by mid-2031 and, phased in thereafter, those remaining counties in Eastern Indiana and Western Ohio, are updated on a rolling basis as new federal and state data becomes available. [Vision]
Goal 1.2: Disseminate the collected economic data and business survey findings through the annual “Futurecast” event, local talks, and/or contributions to newspaper articles. [Impact]

Conducts targeted research and studies to capture the "pulse" of the local and regional economies.
Goal: Publish the annual Richmond Forecast and Business Survey Report by mid-December of the year and mid-May of the following year, respectively, maintaining a high standard of internal and external peer review. [Discipline]

Collaborates with community organizations to enhance public understanding of the local business environment.
Goal: Partner with local economic development organizations in at least three new counties in the IU East service region in Indiana to expand the geographic impact of BERC’s research. [Growth]

Engages alumni networks to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world regional business applications.
Goal: Develop an "Alumni Research Liaison" program to integrate at least two distinguished alumni into the external review process for major economic reports. [Legacy]

Leverages student effort in promoting economic development in the community.
Goal: Organize activities/events in which students can contribute meaningfully to the economic development of the region and their residing counties. [Contribution]

The BERC delivers on its mission through six strategic pillars: Vision through our new digital dashboard; Impact by disseminating research through community engagement and media; Discipline in our peer-reviewed reporting; Growth through expanded regional partnerships; Legacy by integrating our alumni back into the research process; Contribution by promoting regional economic development.

A Richmond employer has received initial support for its $8 million expansion plans.

At its May 11 meeting, Economic Development Corp. of Wayne County’s board voted unanimously to give an Economic Development Income Tax grant of $85,000 to Primex Plastics Corp.

Primex is one of the largest sheet extrusion operations in the nation, and its plastic sheets are used in multiple industries.

Read the full article on Western Wayne News

For the team at 3Rivers Federal Credit Union, banking isn’t about transactions, it’s about people.

That mindset is rooted in a simple philosophy: people helping people. It’s been at the core of 3Rivers since its founding in 1935, but in Richmond and Wayne County, it shows up in a way that feels especially personal. Here, the people behind the desks aren’t just financial professionals, they’re neighbors, friends, and familiar faces in the community.
“We’re committed to being more than just a financial institution,” their team shared. “We want to be a trusted partner and an active part of the community.”

That idea shapes every interaction that happens inside their branch. Conversations aren’t rushed, and solutions aren’t one-size-fits-all. Instead, the focus is on understanding where someone is coming from and where they want to go. “In our day-to-day work, that means taking the time to truly listen,” they explained. “To understand each member’s unique situation and offer guidance that’s in their best interest.”

For some, that might be opening their first account. For others, it’s navigating a financial challenge or planning for something bigger down the road. Whatever the situation, the approach stays the same, meet people where they are, and help them move forward with confidence. That commitment is what sets 3Rivers apart as a member-owned credit union. Without shareholders to answer to, their focus stays local, centered on the people and businesses right here in Wayne County.

“Our teams live and work here, so we understand the needs of our members,” they said. “It allows us to be more flexible, more responsive, and more community-focused.”

Sometimes, that difference shows up in quiet, everyday moments. And other times, it becomes something more memorable. Recently, a member came in with their heart set on what they called their “dream car,” unsure if it was actually within reach. Instead of offering a quick answer, the 3Rivers team sat down with them, walking through their budget, talking about long-term goals, and exploring options that would truly work. “We were able to structure a loan that fit comfortably within their budget,” they shared. “They were ecstatic, not just about the car, but about knowing it fit into their long-term plans.” Moments like that are what make the work meaningful, not just for the member, but for the team behind it. “Our team members were equally excited at the opportunity to make a difference,” they added.

Outside the branch, that same sense of purpose carries into the community. 3Rivers is deeply involved in supporting organizations like Girls Inc. of Wayne County, Amigos, Communities in Schools, and the Richmond Art Museum, each one playing a role in strengthening the fabric of the community.

“By investing in these organizations, we’re helping create a more vibrant and resilient community,” they said. “We want to see it thrive.”

That investment also shows up in the way they build relationships over time. For 3Rivers, it’s never about a single interaction, it’s about consistency, trust, and showing up when it matters. “Building long-term relationships starts with getting to know our members beyond a single transaction,” they explained. “It’s about being a trusted resource at every stage of life.”

Through their involvement with the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce, those relationships continue to grow. It’s given them the opportunity to connect with other businesses, collaborate on initiatives, and stay closely tied to what’s happening locally.

“For us, it’s about being a visible, trusted presence in the community we serve,” they said.
Looking ahead, that presence isn’t slowing down. 3Rivers is focused on continuing to expand its impact in Richmond and Wayne County, strengthening partnerships, growing its services, and finding new ways to support financial wellness for individuals and businesses alike. Because at the end of the day, their mission hasn’t changed. It’s still about people helping people.
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And in a community like Wayne County, that’s what makes all the difference.

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​Richmond, IN — April 10, 2026 — On Friday, April 10, the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce proudly hosted the regional round of the National Civics Bee® for the third year in a row. The event, held at Whitewater Hall on the campus of Indiana University East, brought together 20 middle school students and two alternates to showcase their civic knowledge and leadership ideas. This year’s event was emceed by Rick Duncan of Duncan Media.

“We are proud to host the National Civics Bee and celebrate the incredible students in our community who are passionate about civic engagement,” said Melissa Vance, President/CEO of the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce. “This event not only highlights the importance of understanding our government but also empowers the next generation to take an active role in shaping the future of Wayne County.”

Students competed in two fast-paced rounds of multiple-choice questions testing their understanding of civics, government, and community issues. The top five scorers advanced to the final Q&A round, where they presented the topics, they had explored in their submitted essays. This year's finalists were:

• Arianna Stevenson
• Elliot Gray
• Calin Ledgerwood
• Emily Meeker
• Candice Jasso

Each finalist shared a brief overview of their essay topics covering issues from clothing insecurity to nature preservation and explained how their chosen problems and proposed solutions connect to the broader definition of civic responsibility. Following their presentations, the judges — Mayor Ron Oler, County Commissioner Jeff Plasterer, and County Council member Cathy Williams — asked thoughtful questions to each student before making their final decision.

After a close competition, the top three students moving on to the Indiana State Civics Bee on June23, 2026 in Indianapolis are:

• 1st Place – Arianna Stevenston, abandoned homes
• 2nd Place – Calin Ledgerwood, stopping abortion
• 3rd Place – Emily Meeker, clothing insecurity

Arianna Stevenson was named the overall winner of the Wayne County Civics Bee after excelling in both the quiz rounds and the essay presentation. Arianna spoke on the importance of revitalizing abandoned homes and the need for proper maintenance. As part of her first-place award, Arianna will also have the unique opportunity to serve as "Mayor for the Day" in the City of Richmond.

“I’m always inspired by the passion these students bring to understanding how our government works,” said Mayor Ron Oler. “Welcoming the winner as ‘Mayor for the Day’ is a special opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world experience and show how they can make a difference right here in Richmond.”
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The Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce extends sincere congratulations to all participants and finalists, and thanks to the judges, families, and community partners who helped make this event a success.
Thank you to the 2026 Local Civics Bee Sponsors:
Red
101.7 the Point
DOT Foods
Merchants Bank
White
Earlham College
Primex Plastics
Blue
Centerstone
Cochran & Associates
IU East
Reid Health
 
 
 
Transcendia