The national America 250 organization notes that on July 4, 2026, the United States will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.

Rhonda Blaker-Wilson is the chairperson of the Pulaski County America 250 Committee. Those wishing to attend the Feb. 24 meeting should RSVP to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Topics to be discussed at the meeting include:

  • Important Dates:
  • April 18-19, 2025: "Two Lights for Tomorrow" which commemorates the famous ride of Paul Revere.  They are asking that two lights be placed in North windows of county buildings, businesses and citizen's homes on April 18 and 19.  This is a very meaningful activity to help promote awareness of the coming Semiquincentennial celebration of America 250 in 2026.
  • June 14, 2025: This will serve as Indiana's Official Kick-Off to its celebration and commemoration of America 250. There will be a program at the Indiana War Memorial in Indianapolis. They are hoping that counties will plan for special events that day in support of this Kick-Off.  June 14 is also Flag Day and the birth date of the United States Army.
  • Future Events: Tours of Pulaski County Courthouse, Display at the PCHS Museum/Cultural Center, Gala Event in 2026 and Main Event in Winamac on       July 4th 2026.
  • National Level: "What Does America Mean To Me?" Writing and art program for students grade levels 3-12 to enter. Visit America250.org for more information. Deadline for this is April 16, 2025 at 5 p.m (ET)
  • Additional State Funding: There is talk of possible funding from the state to help support our endeavors and will soon be made aware of how to request those funds for all Pulaski County Communities.
  • Commemorative Coin Idea: Pulaski County Courthouse, other side open for ideas (have Pulaski County kids design?)
  • Plan of Action:  Attending local town council meetings, community meetings, etc.
  • PR Packets: PR packets will be available soon 
  • Volunteer Opportunities: Many opportunities available

 For more information, contact Rhonda Blaker-Wilson, Pulaski County America 250 Committee Chair This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

About America250 - America250 is a nonpartisan initiative working to engage every American in the 250th anniversary of the United States. The mission and vision of the organization is to commemorate and celebrate our 250th anniversary with inclusive programs that inspire Americans to renew and strengthen our daring experiment in democracy. The shared experiences of America250 will have ignited our imaginations, elevated our diverse stories, inspired service in our communities, and demonstrated the lasting durability of the American project. Visit America250.org for more information.

  
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Local News Briefs

Chamber ‘Lunch & Learn’ program Feb. 20

The Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce will hold its first “Lunch & Learn” program of the year from 12 noon to 1 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 20, at Celebration Station, downtown Winamac.

The program topic will be “Unlock Your Business Potential,” presented by Brandi Larkin of Larkitect Solutions.

Pulaski County 'America250' committee to continue planning at Feb. 24 meeting

Plans are moving forward for Pulaski County’s participation in next year’s America250 celebration, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

The Pulaski County America 250 Committee will meet at 6 p.m., Monday, Feb. 24, to continue developing plans for county-wide celebrations. All interested persons are welcome to attend the meeting at the current Pulaski County Historical Society museum at 500 S. Monticello St., Winamac.

PACE grants application deadline March 3

Pulaski Alliance for Community Education (PACE) is offering $60,000 in educational grants to eligible organizations this spring.

Organizations whose primary mission is public education may apply for grant funds. Participants in CAPE II/III are also encouraged to apply for a portion of funds available to sustain or continue original CAPE program activities.

PCPL announces February programs, activities

The Pulaski County Public Library has listed its programs and activities for February. They include Valentine-themed crafts, winter reading challenges, a children’s program on foxes, snowflake trivia and adult canvas painting.

For more information on any program, call the library at 574-946-3432 or visit the library’s website at www.pulaskicounty.lib.in.us.

PCT invites photographers to capture spirit of county in photo contest

Participate, share perspective on county

Pulaski County Tribe (PCT) has announced the launch of the "Embrace the Pace Pulaski County" photography contest, inviting photographers of all ages and skill levels to showcase life in Pulaski County through the lens of their cameras.

“With cash prizes and the opportunity to have your work displayed county-wide, this contest is an exciting way to celebrate the beauty and community of Pulaski County,” said Brandi Larkin, PCT president.

  

Indiana News

Rep. Culp to serve on U.S. EPA Local Government Advisory Committee

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 13) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently appointed State Rep. Kendell Culp (R-Rensselaer) as a member of its Local Government Advisory Committee.

Culp said there are numerous advisory committees with the purpose to help the president and executive branch better understand key topics. The main job of the committee is to tackle critical problems by working with the different governing bodies to develop common sense, long-lasting solutions.

Gov. Braun collaborates on Avian Flu effort in Indiana

Also: key facts on bird flu

INDIANAPOLIS (Feb. 13) – Gov. Mike Braun issued a statement Thursday regarding Avian Flu monitoring in Indiana.

The first Indiana case of 2025 occurred at a turkey farm in Jay County along the Ohio border, and the Indiana Board of Animal Health is monitoring which counties are affected.

2025 Indiana General Assembly: Bill Watch

Members of the Indiana General Assembly are working through proposed legislation on such topics such as education, health care, housing, property tax reform, responsible management of water resources, and much more.

The 2025 legislative session runs January through April 29. This is a “long session” during which legislators will craft a two-year state budget. The bills under discussion, in both the House and Senate, may be viewed here: IGA | Bills for 2025 Session. 

 

Indiana COVID-19 News

Feb. 17: IDH reports state flu level 'very high'

INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Department of Health reported Feb. 11 that COVID-like illness emergency department visits numbered 462 statewide from Jan. 29-Feb. 4, up 70 from its previous weekly report. There were no state COVID-19 hospital admissions during that time period, and one (reported) COVID death.

In addition, the IDH reported Feb. 17, that the state's influenza-like illness level is " very high" for the week ending Feb. 8, with 17 flu-associated deaths during the reporting period (97 total for the current season).

  

Post News

West Central School Board briefed on state legislation with school funding impact

FRANCESVILLE – West Central Schools Superintendent Dr. Cathy Rowe shared information with the school board at its February meeting related to the impact of an Indiana Senate bill (SB1) currently making its way through the state legislature.

The bill is a property tax relief measure promoted by Gov. Braun. Rowe told the school board It has the impact to affect all counties, schools and other models of local government.

EPCS board hires new attorney

WINAMAC – The Eastern Pulaski Community School board approved a recommendation to appoint Monica Conrad with Lewis Kappes as board counsel at its Feb. 10 regular meeting. The school’s previous counsel, Susan Traynor, has retired.

Conrad is a director and member of the law firm’s education law, labor and employment, and litigation practice groups. The Lewis Kappes firm is based in Indianapolis.

PC Health Department opens office on county’s West Side

FRANCESVILLE – A ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house for the Pulaski County Health Department’s new West Side office was held Wednesday, Feb. 19, at Parkview Haven, Francesville.

The health department’s satellite office will provide essential health services such as immunizations, health screenings, environmental services, and wellness programs directly to residents who previously faced barriers in accessing care.

Sheriff’s office posts annual review

The Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department responded to 6,435 calls for service in 2024, according to its annual report compiled in January.

Deputies logged 429 field arrests, and worked with the county coroner on 36 death investigations.  In 2024 there were 25 counts of resisting arrest, and five counts of battery on an officer. (A field arrest means that Pulaski County law enforcement established probable cause for a misdemeanor or felony offense.)

CFoPC welcomes two board members to new terms

The Community Foundation of Pulaski County, Inc. (CFoPC) has announced new terms for two members to its 2025 board of directors - one returning and one new to the organization.

They are Shane Pilarski of Francesville and Christi Beavers of Winamac.