A community auction supporting the restoration of Centerville Christian Church’s historic steeple.

CENTERVILLE, IN — August 3, 2026 — Centerville Christian Church announced today that it will host Bid for the Bell! Steeple Renovation Benefit Auction on Saturday, August 15 at 10:00 AM in the church’s Family Center, located at 106 E Main Street, Centerville. The fundraiser supports the renovation of the church’s beloved historic steeple, made possible in part through a generous grant from Indiana Landmarks, Sacred Places.

The auction will feature hundreds of items, offering a wide variety for every age, interest, and budget. Attendees can also enjoy Mr. B’s Chicken Salad lunches, available for purchase throughout the event. A public preview of auction items will be held on August 11 from 4:00–6:00 PM, allowing community members to browse the selection ahead of time. Auctioneer Chris Thompson will take the bids.

“We’re thrilled to invite our neighbors and friends to join us in preserving a piece of Centerville’s history,” said Shari Markley, Director of Outreach and Engagement for the church. “This steeple has stood as a symbol of faith and community for generations. Every bid helps ensure it continues to stand tall for many years to come.”

The steeple renovation project reflects the church’s commitment to honoring its heritage while strengthening its role as a gathering place for Centerville families. Funds raised through the auction will directly support restoration work, helping maintain the building’s structural integrity and historic character.

About Centerville Christian Church
Centerville Christian Church is a welcoming congregation serving the Centerville community through worship, outreach, and local partnerships. The church is dedicated to preserving its historic campus while continuing to offer programs that support spiritual growth and community connection.
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Media Contact
[email protected]
Facebook Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CDqFoqMu8/
www.centervillechurch.com

RICHMOND, Ind. (July 27, 2026) – National Stamping and Fabrication, the new owner of J.M.  Hutton & Company, announced a major investment in the Richmond-based manufacturer specializing in precision metal fabrication. The $6.2 million investment will expand the company's operations in Richmond, create up to 37 new high-wage jobs by the end of 2029, retain 50 existing positions, and establish a new truck cab production line to support continued growth in the commercial vehicle market.

The expansion marks National Stamping and Fabrication's first major investment since acquiring J.M. Hutton & Company and reinforces its long-term commitment to growing the company's operations in Richmond. The project will increase production capacity across J.M. Hutton's core manufacturing capabilities, including metal stamping, 2D and 3D laser cutting, welding, and powder coating, while supporting new business opportunities in the commercial vehicle market. By the end of 2029, the company plans to create up to 37 new full-time positions with an average hourly wage of $35.38.

"J.M. Hutton has built an outstanding reputation for quality, precision, and customer service," said Rick Grise, President and CEO of J.M. Hutton & Company. "As the new ownership team, we are committed to building on that legacy by investing in our people, expanding our capabilities, and creating new opportunities for growth. Richmond offers the skilled workforce, business climate, and community partnerships that make it the right place to invest for the future."

To support the project, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) committed more than $300,000 in performance-based Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) tax credits, contingent upon the company's investment and job creation commitments. The Economic Development Corporation of Wayne County Board of Directors also approved $73,000 in Economic Development Income Tax (EDIT) funding to support the expansion. In addition, the City of Richmond is considering a tax abatement for the project.

"J.M. Hutton's continued investment demonstrates the strength of Wayne County's manufacturing ecosystem," said Valerie Shaffer, president of the Economic Development Corporation of Wayne County. "Manufacturers choose to grow here because of our skilled workforce, collaborative industry network, and strong partnerships that support long-term 
success. The new ownership team's investment in the Richmond operations signifies their longterm commitment to the community."

Manufacturing remains the foundation of Wayne County's economy, with a diverse network of companies specializing in advanced manufacturing, metal fabrication, food processing, plastics, automotive components, caskets and funeral products. National Stamping and Fabrication's investment in J.M. Hutton & Company further strengthens Richmond's role as a center for advanced manufacturing and the region's ability to support business growth through talent, 
infrastructure and strategic partnerships.

The full Indiana Economic Development Corporation announcement regarding this project is 
available on the IEDC website.
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About the Economic Development Corporation of Wayne County
The Economic Development Corporation of Wayne County (EDC) is a non-profit organization 
dedicated to leading business and community development efforts in Wayne County, Indiana, by 
attracting new investment, retaining and expanding existing businesses, and improving the 
county’s quality of place.
Learn more at whywaynecounty.com

National Stamping and Fabrication (dba J.M. Hutton & Company)
National Stamping and Fabrication is the parent company of J.M. Hutton & Company, a 
Richmond, Indiana-based manufacturer specializing in precision metal fabrication.
Learn more at https://www.jmhuttonco.com/

About the Office of Commerce
The State of Indiana’s Office of Commerce was created by Governor Mike Braun to align and 
accelerate the state’s economic development efforts and is led by Indiana Secretary of 
Commerce Chuck Goodrich.
Learn more at https://iedc.in.gov

​FOUNTAIN CITY, Ind. – Fountain City Forward invites families from across Wayne County to celebrate the end of summer at the 3rd Annual Fountain City Community End of Summer Block Party & Movie Under the Stars on Friday, July 31, 2026, at Willow Grove Park.

For the first time, Fountain City Forward is combining its annual End of Summer Block Party with its popular Movies Under the Stars series, creating one exciting evening filled with free family activities, food, and an outdoor movie experience.

The Block Party begins at 6:00 p.m. and will feature activities for all ages, including a bounce house, face painting, chalk art, yard games, a sucker pull with prizes, and the opportunity to help grow Fountain City's Community Rock Snake. Families are encouraged to bring smooth rocks to paint and are welcome to bring several to share with others. Hand-sized rocks or smaller work best, and a limited supply of rocks will be available at the event.

One of the evening's featured attractions will be a Touch-a-Truck experience, where children can get an up-close look at a variety of emergency, service, agricultural, and commercial vehicles while meeting the people who operate them. Participating organizations include the Fountain City Police Department, Fountain City Fire Department, Williamsburg Fire Department, Reid Ambulance, Brooks Trucking, Best Way Disposal, and Thurston Farms.

Fountain City Forward is proud to once again collaborate with Martin's Country Mart for a full day of community celebration. Martin's 4th Annual Customer Appreciation Day will take place from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., featuring giveaways, prizes, free food, and customer appreciation activities. Families are encouraged to make a day of it by enjoying Martin's Customer Appreciation Day before joining Fountain City Forward at Willow Grove Park for an evening of family fun, complimentary refreshments, and a movie under the stars. Fountain City Forward is grateful for Martin's continued partnership and support in bringing the community together.

Guests can enjoy complimentary Neighborhood Nachos and cold drinks during the Block Party while supplies last.

As the sun begins to set, the evening will transition into Fountain City Forward's Movies Under the Stars series. Families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets, enjoy FREE popcorn, and settle in for a free, family-friendly animated feature on the big screen.

"One of Fountain City Forward's goals has always been to create opportunities for our community to come together," said Terry Wiesehan, Vice President of Fountain City Forward. "This year's Block Party is especially exciting because it
represents so many people working together—from our volunteers and sponsors to our community partners like Martin's Country Mart and the organizations participating in Touch-a-Truck. We hope families will spend the day enjoying everything Fountain City has to offer, make lasting memories, and experience the strong sense of community that makes our town such a special place to call home."

Fountain City Forward extends its sincere appreciation to DOT Foods for its generous donation of food, helping provide complimentary refreshments for families attending this year's event. The organization also thanks the Fountain City Police Department, Fountain City Fire Department, Williamsburg Fire Department, Reid Ambulance, Brooks Trucking, Best Way Disposal, Thurston Farms, and Martin's Country Mart for their partnership and support in making this community celebration possible.

Visitors are encouraged to stop by the Fountain City Forward information table throughout the evening to learn more about the organization's community projects, upcoming events, and ways to volunteer, partner with the organization, sponsor future events, share ideas, or otherwise support Fountain City Forward's mission.

Admission is free, and everyone is welcome.

Event Information
3rd Annual Fountain City Community End of Summer Block Party & Movie Under the
Stars
Date: Friday, July 31, 2026
Time: Block Party begins at 6:00 p.m. | Movie begins at dusk
Location: Willow Grove Park, Fountain City, Indiana

About Fountain City Forward

Fountain City Forward is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to maximizing opportunities for historical preservation, revitalization and beautification, and improvements in technology and safety throughout Fountain City, Indiana. As a proud member of the Indiana Main Street OCRA Designated Affiliate Network (ODAN), Fountain City Forward partners with residents, businesses, organizations, and volunteers to strengthen the community while preserving its unique character for future generations. Together, we're building a stronger Fountain City—one neighbor at a time.

FOUNTAIN CITY, Ind. — Planning is well underway for the 59th Annual Levi Coffin Days
Festival, which will take place September 19–20, 2026, in Fountain City. This year's theme,
"Celebrating Freedom," honors America's 250th birthday while celebrating the history and spirit
of Fountain City.

Founded in 1968, Levi Coffin Days was established to honor the legacy of Levi Coffin and help
fund the restoration of the historic Fountain City home that served as one of the most significant
stations on the Underground Railroad. What began as a community celebration has grown into
one of Wayne County's longest-running traditions, welcoming neighbors and visitors alike each
September for a weekend of entertainment, local food, shopping, family activities, and
hometown hospitality.

The Fountain City Lions Club, which has organized and presented the festival since 1977, is
preparing for this year's celebration. For 2026, Fountain City Forward is spearheading the newly
formed Levi Coffin Days Entertainment Committee. The committee is responsible for planning
and organizing the festival's parade and entertainment in partnership with the Fountain City
Lions Club.

Planning is underway, and organizers are inviting the community to get involved. Vendor
information and applications, parade registration, sponsorship opportunities, and volunteer
information are all available at LeviCoffinDays.org. Businesses, organizations, entertainers,
owners of antique and historic vehicles, sponsors, and volunteers are encouraged to participate.

Businesses, organizations, and individuals interested in supporting Levi Coffin Days are invited
to explore sponsorship opportunities. Sponsorships are available through the Fountain City
Lions Club for the overall festival and through Fountain City Forward for the parade and
entertainment.

"Celebrating Freedom is a meaningful theme for Fountain City," said Beth Bond, Chair of the
Levi Coffin Days Entertainment Committee. "As our nation marks its 250th birthday, we also
have the opportunity to honor Levi Coffin's legacy and the role our community played in the
Underground Railroad. Levi Coffin Days has always been a community celebration, and we
hope this year's festival inspires more people to become part of that tradition—as participants,
volunteers, sponsors, and visitors."

Complete festival information, including festival hours, vendor information, parade registration,
sponsorship opportunities, entertainment updates, volunteer opportunities, and contact
information, is available at LeviCoffinDays.org.

​RICHMOND, Ind. – Meridian Health Services is hosting the Back-to-School Fit Fair, with support from presenting sponsor G101.3, on Friday, July 24 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Richmond High School located at 380 Hub Etchison Pkwy., Richmond, IN 47374. This event is being held in conjunction with Richmond Community Schools’ registration day. The community and people of all ages are invited to the Back-to-School Fit Fair featuring:

FREE Health & Fitness Zone including:

• Health screenings provided by Meridian Health Services
  
  • Screenings include blood pressure, vision, BMI, pulse oxygen, and mental health
    
• Dental screenings and cleanings with Meridian Dental’s mobile dental team
• Food and drink (while supplies last)
  
• Backpack & school supplies giveaway (while supplies last)
  
• Live remote and music with G101.3

$10 Sports Physicals

• Meridian School-Based Health Clinic at Richmond High School will offer $10 sports physicals. No appointment necessary – all schools welcome.

School Registration

• Register for the school year with Richmond Community Schools.

Low-Cost Immunizations

• Immunizations provided by the Wayne County Health Department
  
  • Walk-ins welcome. Save time and register in advance at www.in.gov/localhealth/waynecounty/clinical-services/

The Back-to-School Fit Fair at Richmond High School is presented by G101.3. Additional sponsors include Reid Health, Jay Crew, Brooklawn Services, United Healthcare, Dot Foods, Strengthening Indiana Families Family Resource Center, Centerstone, Porter Advertising, Anthem, Pal-Item Local iQ, and Kicks96.

Global Networking: How the Chamber Travel Club Explores the World to Grow Wayne County
For the fourth consecutive year, the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce proved that business networking doesn't stop at the county line. The Chamber Travel Club officially leveled up, taking 56 local professionals and community leaders on a land-and-sea Greek odyssey of a lifetime.
From ancient architecture to modern leadership insights, this annual excursion is redefining how our business community builds connections, culture, and county-wide growth.
Why Chamber Members Love Group Travel
The Chamber Travel Club offers a unique perk: the ability to venture out of East Central Indiana and explore the globe with absolute peace of mind. Traveling on a meticulously preplanned itinerary eliminates the typical hassle, planning fatigue, and anxiety of solo international travel.
Instead, members focus on what matters most:

• Deepening Professional Relationships: Seamlessly network with fellow leaders outside the office.
• Supporting Local Expertise: This year's trip was curated by trusted local Chamber Member Pam Broering of Cruise Adventure.
• Cross-Industry Collations: Brainstorm with peers while cruising the Mediterranean.

Cultivating Global Perspectives for Local Economic Growth
Beyond the stunning views, Chamber travel serves a deeper economic purpose: building community empathy and driving local tourism strategy. By stepping outside their comfort zones, members return with a sharper vision for Richmond and the surrounding Wayne County area.
"Once we experience the feeling of being in a new place without the comforts of knowing the local culture, it somehow makes us more aware of what new residents may be needing from us in our hometown," explains Melissa Vance, President/CEO of the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce. "If we want to grow our population and tourism, we need to think about how we can make people feel at home in Wayne County."
From the Acropolis to the Aegean: Quick Trip Highlights
The group kickstarted their journey in Athens, standing in awe at the historic Acropolis and walking through the ancient city of Corinth. From there, they boarded a mid-size Celebrity Cruise ship, charting a course through the Greek Isles, Turkey, Malta, and Spain.

• Go Behind the Scenes: Want an insider look? Listen to the recent Chamber Podcast filmed live onboard the cruise ship, featuring Pam Broering, Rick Funk of Wilco Custom Electronics, and the Chamber staff.
• See the Highlights: Catch a glimpse of the journey by browsing the full photo gallery on the Wayne County Area Chamber Facebook Page.

Don't Let FOMO Win: Join Us in 2027!
Missed out on Greece? Don't let travel FOMO get the best of you. The Chamber Travel Club is already locking in details for our next massive expedition.

Get ready to swap the Mediterranean sun for glaciers and wildlife—we are heading to Alaska in 2027! Secure your spot, expand your network, and join a community of global-minded local leaders.
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​Indianapolis, Indiana – On Tuesday, June 23, the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce sent three students, Calin Ledgerwood, Arianna Stevenson, and Emily Meeker, to participate in the 2026 state championship of the National Civics Bee at the Indiana War Memorial. The National Civics Bee, organized in partnership with The Civic Trust® of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, aims to foster civic engagement among young Americans and encourage their active contribution to our communities and nation.
 
The state competition was hosted by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce and the Indiana Department of education. It featured 15 students representing their respective regions and Chambers and comprised two segments: a live quiz event followed by a presentation of their essays and a Q&A session with the judges.
 
“It is incredibly important for our students to engage in civic discussions,” said Melissa Vance, President and CEO of the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce. “They are the future of our community, and we are proud to give them a platform to share their ideas, explore important issues, and make their voices heard.”
 
Only the top five students were selected to present their essay pitches. Among these finalists was Calin Ledgerwood, representing the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce and Nettle Creek School Corporation. Entering the speech segment after winning the tiebreaker, Calin spoke passionately about children and families receiving adequate care and education on resources to improve quality of life.

​RICHMOND, Ind. (June 8, 2026) — The Economic Development Corporation (EDC) of Wayne County 
has launched the READI Downtown Revitalization Grant Program, a competitive funding initiative aimed 
at driving commercial redevelopment, housing creation, and private investment across Wayne County's 
downtown districts.

Backed by funding from Indiana's Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI) 
2.0 through Lilly Endowment Inc. funding, along with Wayne County and Consolidated EDIT funds, the 
program is expected to leverage nearly $17 million in total public and private investment.

The first application round opens June 8 and closes July 27. Eligible applicants include commercial 
property owners, for-profit businesses, and property tax-paying nonprofit organizations located within 
designated downtown districts in Boston, Cambridge City, Centerville, Dublin, East Germantown, 
Fountain City, Greens Fork, Hagerstown, Milton, Mount Auburn, Richmond, and Spring Grove.

Grant awards are available for projects with a minimum investment of $20,000. Applicants may request
up to $200,000 for projects and require a 75/25 match. Eligible projects include façade improvements, 
upper-story residential development, commercial rehabilitation, accessibility upgrades, and other 
investments that strengthen commercial districts. A look-back period to Aug. 1, 2024, allows eligible 
completed and ongoing projects to be considered for funding.

The program builds on the momentum of Wayne County's previous downtown revitalization efforts 
through the Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program (HELP), which generated strong demand for 
redevelopment funding across the county.

"The continued revitalization of our downtowns is essential to building thriving, connected communities," 
said Valerie Shaffer, president of the EDC of Wayne County. "This program will help preserve the 
character of our city and towns while encouraging private investment, supporting local businesses, 
creating new housing opportunities, and strengthening the economic vitality of communities across 
Wayne County."

The initiative is designed to stimulate private investment, support housing development, reduce 
commercial vacancies, preserve historic assets, and enhance quality of place throughout Wayne County.

Program guidelines, eligibility maps, FAQs, and application materials are available at 
whywaynecounty.com/downtown-grant

​The Indiana University East Business and Economics Research Center

​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.

Western Wayne News - ​ Millie Martin Emery

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