Congress officially voted to reduce the number of eligibility periods to join the American Legion. What used to be seven specific periods has been reduced down to two broad sections of time, opening the doors to more veterans.

The qualifying periods are now April 6, 1917, to Nov. 11, 1918, along with Dec. 7, 1941 through today. This means all those who served in the past 78 years, and were not dishonorably discharged, are now eligible.

David Burnette, Indiana’s 5th District Commander, has been travelling the surrounding counties to educate local posts about the new rules. He was excited when he heard the news of the act’s official passing.

By Joseph Slacian
jslacian@thepaperofwabash.com

Officials from several state agencies toured the City of Wabash on Friday during a “Stellarbration.”

The event was designed to show off the various projects made available around the city thanks to its being named a Stellar Community in 2014. The officials, from the Office of Community and Rural Affairs, the Indiana Department of Transportation and more, visited the Rock City Lofts, toured the Eagles Theatre, saw the results of the façade refurbishing program in downtown Wabash and the improvements along South Wabash Street.

The tour ended at Friendship Hill, the city’s inclusive park, where a private showing took place for the officials as well as for select donors to the project.

By Joseph Slacian
jslacian@thepaperofwabash.com

Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch toured the City of Wabash on Wednesday, July 31.

Crouch, who spoke earlier in the day to the Warsaw Rotary Club breakfast, stopped in Wabash while en route to Noblesville for a tour of that city.

She was greeted outside by Mayor Scott Long, who gave her a quick tour of City Hall, introducing her to various people around the building.

By Joseph Slacian
jslacian@thepaperofwabash.com

About 250 youngsters received backpacks and other needed back-to-school supplies on Saturday morning during the Back to School Bash at the Wabash High School gym.

Sponsored by the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program in conjunction with more than 20 other local programs and organizations, the youngsters received free backpacks filled with supplies based on grade level. They also were able to receive free clothes and free haircuts if needed or wanted.

By David Brinson
news@thepaperofwabash.com

Trystin Music and his family are hosting a golf scramble to help raise money, so he can compete in the 2019 World Martial Arts Games in London, England.

The golf scramble will take place at Honeywell Golf Course, Saturday, August 31, with 4-person teams at a $60 entry fee per person (with lunch included). They are also seeking sponsors, displaying logos at the course for $75.

“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for Trystin to go to London and represent America,” Valerie Music, his mother, said. “He has trained really hard, every day, just to get there. To have the support of our town would be great.”

Mandy Underwood has joined The Paper of Wabash County staff as a news reporter.

She joined the staff on Monday, Aug. 5, replacing Josh Sigler who is moving to the Mishawaka area.

“I know Mandy will be a good fit with the staff,” Editor Joseph Slacian said. “A Wabash County native, she knows about the county, its history and its people.”

By David Brinson

Danielle Sparling became royalty when she was crowned the 2019 Wabash County Festivals Queen Friday.

“I feel really fortunate,” Sparling said. “I feel like you can be confident, but never too confident, so you just have to say a little prayer and cross your fingers.”

The pageant took place in the Honeywell Center’s Ford Theatre. Finishing first runner-up was Mariah Kirtlan, the 2019 4-H Queen. Southwood graduates Haley Porter, second runner-up, and Katie Jones, third runner-up, placed next. Emilly Martin finished as fourth runner-up, with Miss Friendship Dayna Dale and Director’s Award winner Franny Schannep rounding out the court. Everyone on the court receives a scholarship to contribute towards their collegiate and life endeavors.

By Joseph Slacian
jslacian@thepaperofwabash.com

Four Wabash Fire Department members received oaths of office on Monday when the Wabash City Council met.
Scott Kirtlan was sworn in as assistant chief, while Colton Ringel and Chad Bassett were sworn in as firefighter first class and EMTs.

Tanner Chamberlain received the oath as a probationary firefighter.