New Panhandle Pathway Mural

Community members and art enthusiasts gathered on Saturday (Sept. 16) to witness the mural's creation. It was not just an opportunity to admire art but also a chance to embrace the unhurried pace and community camaraderie of Pulaski County.

The mural artist is once again Zach Medler of Lafayette who has completed several murals for PCT in Pulaski County.

PCT recognized the following:

  • Members of Friends of the Panhandle Pathway for their commitment to the wonderful trail that runs through Pulaski County and for their partnership on this project.
  • Members of Pulaski County Tribe for their unwavering commitment to creating a stronger, more vibrant community for all.
  • Artist Zach Medler for providing his talents again to enhance Pulaski County.

Brandi Larkin, founder of PCT, underscored the significance of creating a sense of place within the Pulaski County community. "Projects like these are a testament to the power of collaboration and art in fostering a strong community," she said. "They reflect our pride in our county and serve as a reminder of the potential to create meaningful connections through shared experiences."

However, she added, the mural's creation was not just about art; it was also about community effort. Volunteers from both PCT and Friends of the Panhandle Pathway worked to clear brush and debris, trim trees, and clean the building to prepare the space for this vibrant addition to the county.

The completion of this mural is not just an artistic achievement; it's a celebration of the Pulaski County community's spirit, dedication and collaboration. As the mural adorns the Panhandle Pathway, it invites all to appreciate the county's unique character and the power of art to connect people, evoke pride, and foster a sense of place.

As visitors and residents stroll through Pulaski County, PCT encourages them to explore this mural and other stunning artworks, including the crane mural in Medaryville, eagle mural in Monterey, firefly mural in Star City; and the floral and opera block murals in Francesville (led by the Uptown Project).

 

  
Ace Hardware
Pulaski Health Care Center
Pulaski Health Care Center - Parkview
FNB Monterery
Habitat
WKVI Side

Local News Briefs

'Traditions!' Broadway favorite 'Fiddler on the Roof' returns to Winamac stage April 4-6

 WINAMAC - The Tony award-winning, Broadway favorite Fiddler on the Roof will return to the Winamac Community High School stage the weekend of April 4-6

The school’s drama department will present the classic musical which follows the story of Tevye, a Jewish peasant in pre-revolutionary Russia in the early 1900s. The dairyman father struggles to maintain his traditional values while attempting to marry off three of his daughters who have modern romantic ideals - all while growing anti-Semitic sentiment threatens his village.

Yakym district staff to hold local mobile office hours April 2 in Winamac

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02) has announced that his staff will hold mobile office hours in Pulaski County April 2, in Winamac.

Yakym’s mobile office will visit throughout Indiana's Second District in April to assist constituents with casework questions.

‘Grill-n-Gather’ event April 4 to celebrate new Francesville licensed daycare facility

The Pulaski County Early Learning Network, a program of the Community Foundation of Pulaski County, has planned a special “Grill-n-Gather” event for the county community to celebrate the progress of Francesville’s first licensed childcare facility.

After months of hard work, the organization is inching closer to transforming the Saint Francis Solano Church building into an affordable, high-quality, childcare center. The facility will address the unmet childcare need in the Francesville community while supplementing - and not replacing - the trusted childcare providers so many know and value.

PCPL lists programs, activities for April

The Pulaski County Public Library has listed its programs and activities for April. They include a celebration of National Library Week, a kids’ caring for the environment program, a Ladybug Welcome Sign craft, and an Earth Day craft.

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.

Chamber names Don, Lynn Darda a as 2025 Halleck Award recipients

The Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce has announced its selection for the 2025 Halleck Community Service Award are Don and Lynn Darda of Winamac.

Chamber president Leslie Hanson made the announcement Tuesday (March 18). The Dardas are both retired teachers in the Winamac schools and have been active volunteers in a variety of projects throughout the years. The annual Halleck Award Banquet will be Thursday, April 24, at the Winamac VFW.

NIPSCO accepting applications for 2025 environmental action grant

Local organizations seeking funding for environmental initiatives may apply

MERRILLVILLE -  Northern Indiana Public Service Company LLC (NIPSCO) is currently accepting applications for the 2025 Environmental Action Grant, an annual endowment awarded to local organizations to help fund environmental projects and programming across NIPSCO’s service area.

Now in its 10th year, the Environmental Action Grant has historically provided $577,000 in funding to a total of 143 projects with an emphasis on environmental education and restoration across northern Indiana.

  

Indiana News

Culp bill to improve access to agricultural resources signed into law

STATEHOUSE (March 25) – State Rep. Kendell Culp's (R-Rensselaer) legislation to create an online hub to improve Hoosiers' access to agricultural related information, grant opportunities and data on lost farmland has been signed into law.

Currently, the Indiana State Department of Agriculture is made up of five divisions and various other programs and initiatives. Culp said House Enrolled Act 1149 will create a one-stop shop to streamline information, helping Hoosier farmers better navigate state and federal agricultural resources, grant applications, regulatory checklists and an updated inventory on lost farmland.

Former Indiana governor joins Doral Renewables board of directors

PHILADELPHIA (March 21) - Doral Renewables LLC, a leading developer, owner and operator of renewable energy projects, has announced the appointment of former Indiana governor Eric J. Holcomb to its board of directors.

Holcomb recently completed his eight-year term as the 51st governor of Indiana, during which the state saw record-breaking investments and job creation, according to a statement from Doral.

INDOT warns public of toll-related text scam

Caution urged before opening suspicious links

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Department of Transportation is aware of a tolling-related text message or “smishing” scam targeting Hoosiers statewide.

False messages appearing to come from INDOT or tolling service providers alert recipients of a “final notice” regarding unpaid tolls and mention additional fines, late fees, suspension of vehicle registration, vehicle impoundment, and further legal action; in addition to a link for payment.

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. Gov. Mike Braun has now begun the process of signing passed legislation into law.

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 status of bills under consideration, in both the House and Senate, may be viewed here: IGA | Bills for 2025 Session. 

 

Indiana Health News

Respiratory illness activity in Indiana at low levels

Plus update on measles nationwide

As of March 28, the amount of acute respiratory illness causing people to seek health care remains at a low level across most of the U.S., according to the CDC (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Seasonal influenza activity continues to decline. COVID-19 and RSV activity are declining nationally to low levels.

The level of respiratory illness activity in Indiana is low. States reporting moderate levels are Idaho, South Dakota, Wisconsin, West Virginia, Maryland and New Hampshire.

  

Post News

Wind storm results in downed trees, power lines

Updated

A strong windstorm swept across Indiana late Sunday afternoon (March 30), leaving behind power outages, uprooted trees, some building damage and two deaths in Porter and Elkhart counties.

The worst damage locally occurred in northwest Pulaski County and the northern tier of townships. The storm materialized as had been predicted in the days leading up to Sunday.

Pulaski County first responders receive thermal drone donation

The Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department reports it has received the donation of a DJI thermal drone for the county’s drone team and first responders from Doral Renewables LLC.

“This advanced technology will enhance our emergency response capabilities, providing critical aerial support for search and rescue operations, fire response, and public safety missions,” said Chief Deputy Fred Rogers.

Pulaski County Tribe launches ‘Creative Hub’ vision

Receives $10,000 Early Action grant

Pulaski County Tribe (PCT) is setting the stage for a new chapter in community enhancement, one centered on creativity, culture and collaboration.

Interested residents are welcome to “join the conversation and help piece together the future of creativity in Pulaski County.”

Two arrested in opiate overdose investigation

FRANCESVILLE – Two persons were arrested Monday (March 24) in Francesville during a local police investigation stemming from an opiate overdose call in Winamac.

The initial investigation led Winamac Police Officer Aaron Coppernoll and Pulaski County Sheriff’s Deputy Cody Foust to seek a search warrant for a property near Francesville.

West Central School Board considers options for school resource officer

FRANCESVILLE – West Central Schools Superintendent Dr. Cathy Rowe discussed options for the addition of an SRO (school resource officer) with school board members who have expressed an interest in moving in that direction at the board’s March 7 meeting.

The Indiana State Police encourages school corporations to hire SROs to facilitate school safety.

Star City Lions support EPES reading program

The Star City Lions Club recently presented a donation to the Reading is Fundamental (RIF) program at Eastern Pulaski Elementary School.

RIF is a leading national children’s literacy nonprofit. The organization works to bring the joy of reading to children to create skilled readers.

Chamber of Commerce holds annual meeting, honors county businesses

The Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce celebrated its new “Better Together” motto while honoring county businesses for their achievements at the organization’s annual meeting March 13, in Winamac.

Chamber president Leslie Hanson led the meeting, outlining the Chamber’s activities the past year, introducing the board of directors, noting membership milestones and announcing awards. Entertainment for the evening was provided by comedian Jay Harris.