Ask one of our local ambassadors…
... what it’s like to live here. You're invited to connect with the people who have chosen to call Wabash County their home. From families to retirees, there is a place for you here. We want you to meet your new neighbor!
Nick Palmer
LAGRO
I was born and raised in Wabash. I enjoy spending time with family, and hanging out with friends when I get a chance. I have one son, and his name is Beauregard. He is a 1-year-old Rottweiler. He keeps me on my toes!
I love living in Wabash County because for the most part, everyone is down-to-earth and helpful. I have lived in large cities, and I didn’t care for it.
Connect with Nick
Email: palmer81583@gmail.com
Cell: 260-330-3498
Maria Smyth
LaFONTAINE
From a business perspective, Wabash County is the most ideal place to start a business! Eclectic Shoppe has received incredible support from numerous organizations, and most importantly, the community’s support has been outstanding. Visit Wabash County and Grow Wabash County are two exceptional and leading organizations. They provide and assist with the necessary tools to successfully run a business in Wabash County. From marketing and promotions to professional referrals, they are very supportive.
Wabash County has been a wonderful place to call home! We loved all the conveniences that downtown Wabash offers. Whether it was grabbing a quick pizza, enjoying fine dining, or catching some entertainment, downtown Wabash was the best for 8 years. When it was time to move, I insisted we stay in Wabash County and fell in love with a charming little house in LaFontaine. After living in 9 different cities, states, and even another country, we are delighted to call LaFontaine a darling little town in Wabash County our forever home!
Connect with Maria
Email: 42eclectic@gmail.com
Cell: 260-377-9979
Julie Dickey
WABASH
Transplanted from California in 2021. I own a restaurant in the downtown historic district called 4 Partners in Crime – soon to be Partners Eatery. From day one the community has been welcoming, supportive, and enthusiastic about my adventure here. When I first met Wabash I was immediately taken in by the authenticity, hard work, and pride that the community as a whole has for this city/county. So many people are continuously working diligently to make it the BEST place to live, work, and raise a family. In my humble opinion, they are winning! The Riverfront District and Cultural Arts District designations are just a small glimpse of that. I love that instead of tearing old buildings down they are revitalizing them and bringing them back to life. To be able to participate in that is so satisfying and makes my artist’s heart happy.
Connect with Julie
Email: julie@4partnersincrime.com
Cell: 260-388-8394
Mike Barnett
WABASH
Oil painting lawyer who enjoys gardening and volunteering with organizations in my community. I enjoy shopping and eating at our locally-owned establishments. One of my favorite things about living in Wabash is how easy and fun it is to be involved.
Connect with Mike
Email: mbarnett.esq.il@gmail.com
Cell: 765-430-7725
Chelsea Parson
WABASH
Chelsea Parson has lived in Wabash for over 7 years. Originally from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Chelsea became a proud “transplant” to Wabash in 2016 and has gotten involved in a great deal of community activities. On any given day you can find her walking or biking along the Wabash River Trail, taking in a movie at the Eagles Theatre or 13-24 Drive-In, or catching up with friends at Moon Dog or the Charley Creek Wine & Cheese Shoppe! Chelsea loves to talk about her journey to Wabash and how she found her place in this community, and she’d love to chat with you and help you find the people, places, and things that help make Wabash feel like home for you too!
Connect with Chelsea
Email: cboulrisse5@gmail.com
Cell: 508-542-5039
Oscar Corral
WABASH
Hi, I’m an audio engineer with a deep passion for sound and storytelling through music and production. When I’m not in the studio, you can find me connecting with my community, roasting my own coffee, or spending time with people. I believe in the power of shared experiences, whether it’s through sound or a good conversation over a fresh cup of coffee.
Connect with Oscar
Email: oscar@oscaraudio.com
Cell: 702-860-9869
Bob Lundquist
WABASH
I’ve been a lifelong resident of Wabash County. I’ve been active in the Real Estate business for over 42 years. I also served on the Wabash City Fire Department for 20 years. I love Wabash County and all the amenities a safe and friendly rural community has to offer. I would be happy to help potential new residents become familiar with our communities and make the move to Wabash County.
Connect with Bob
Email: bob@lundquistrealestate.com
Cell: 260-571-4653
Jacob Sweet
NORTH MANCHESTER
I am Jacob Sweet, and I am originally from Hicksville, OH, but attended college at Manchester University from 2012-2016. I returned to work at Manchester University in 2017 as an admissions counselor. I am currently in my 7th year in admissions and am currently an assistant director. My soon-to-be wife and I live with our dog and cat and own a house in North Manchester. My parents just moved to North Manchester after living in my hometown for over 40 years. They are really enjoying it! I enjoy running and being involved in the community. What I love the most about Wabash County is the sense of community and support. It’s truly a special place to live.
Connect with Jacob
Email: jwsweet@manchester.edu
Cell: 419-487-2542
Biz Bishop
WABASH
I was born and raised in Wabash County, I attended Wabash High School. After college, I moved to southern Indiana where my husband, Brad, had an established job. We lived in southern Indiana until the summer of 2022 when I made my way back to my hometown. On Saturdays in the warmer months, you will find Brad and me at Modoc’s before hitting up the Farmer’s Market for some loaded breakfast tots from Emmett’s Paddy Wagon. I enjoy all the outdoor adventures that can be found year round.
Contact with Biz
Email: iambizbishop@gmail.com
Carly Hawkins
WABASH
I’ve grown up in Wabash County my whole life! Born and raised, and still living here. I’m a full-time, commuter student at Indiana University Kokomo, studying & interested in all things marketing and communications.
Most young adults leave their hometown as soon as they get the chance, but not me. I clung to the warmth, vibrancy, and opportunity for growth that Wabash County offers. There’s been something to keep me here and fill my cup in every stage of my life so far. Something that fills my cup the most is hearing people from bigger cities fall in love with this charming Indiana County. They love how inviting and accepting the people are, how diverse the offerings are, and how above all else, a united community stands at the forefront! I couldn’t agree more. I could go on all day about Wabash County, but that’s the gist.
Connect with Carly
Email: carlyhawkins13@gmail.com
Cell: 260-571-1538
Stephanie Rogers
WABASH
I have a daughter in 1st grade. My family and I love to travel. I play basketball and volleyball and go on family bike rides. I enjoy hiking, kayaking, trivia, karaoke, and exploring parks. We are involved in church and youth activities.
Connect with Stephanie
Email: stephanie@https://visitwabashcounty.com/
Cell: 765-881-1900
Adam Stakeman
WABASH
I moved to Wabash County in 2004. I have 2 boys (15 and 19 yo) and since they were born we have enjoyed exploring the parks, trails, and reservoirs in the area. From biking and running on the Wabash River Trail to canoeing and camping at Salamonie Reservoir, Wabash County offers tremendous opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Mixing in a beautiful and vibrant walkable downtown with a movie theater, candy shops, and fun local restaurants, I could not imagine a better place to raise a family.
Connect with Adam
Email: astakeman@yahoo.com
Cell: 812-229-9611
Jan Roland
WABASH
I moved here 30 years ago for my job. We fell in love with the town and the people. Wabash is a wonderful place to raise children. Schools truly care about your child. People here welcomed us fully. There are so many opportunities for community involvement. I have been involved with Wabash City Council, Wabash County United Fund, Visit Wabash County, Downtown Wabash, and Wabash Rotary. If you have a heart for service this is the place for you. We all work together to make things happen in this county, from helping renovate a historic theatre to re-developing the small towns in our county. Wabash County is the best place to live
Connect with Jan
Email: rolandjan51@gmail.com
Cell: 260-571-1662
Neil Bever
ROANN
In our small town, where my wife and I juggle our small businesses, Saturdays are about giving my wife a bit of dedicated work time. I take the kids on a laid-back adventure. We hit up the Wabash County museum to let the kids loose in the play area, maybe run into some friends, or make new ones. Later, we walk down to Modoc’s – I grab a coffee, the kids get their hands on some donuts, and we snag a chai with a shot of espresso for my wife. After sitting on the elephant statues (the kids have nicknames for their favorites), and if the kids have earned it, we might swing by J&K Mega Pet for a quick peek at the fishes and lizards. Even on a quiet Saturday, we have lots of family-friendly things to do in Wabash County.
Connect with Neil
Email: neil@ever.com
Mackenzie Coulter-Kern
NORTH MANCHESTER
Vivo en North Manchester. Mi marido y yo, tenemos un hijo de 10 meses. Trabajo para el Diversity Coalition de Wabash County. Crecí en North Manchester y pasé más de diez años fuera del pueblo. Durante este tiempo he vivido en (Córdoba) Argentina, (Las Terrenas) la República Dominicana, (Aguascalientes) México, y (Sevilla) España. En mi tiempo libre me gusta correr, jugar fútbol, viajar, caminar con mi hijo, pintar, cocinar, y pasar tiempo con amigos y familia.
Connect with Mackenzie
Email: diversitywabashcounty@gmail.com
Cell: 260-901-3106
Heather Cruz
LAKETON
I was born and raised in Wabash County. After graduating from Manchester Community Schools and attending Manchester University for 2 years, I moved to Hamilton County for nearly a decade. Although I enjoyed my time there, Wabash County is home, and I moved back to start a family. I’m married to a fellow lifelong Wabash County resident and Southwood HS graduate. We have 3 stepchildren, ages 13-19, who attend Northfield schools, and a 4 year old. As the Executive Director of Manchester Alive, North Manchester’s Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Foundation, I focus on celebrating and improving life in our community. I live in rural North Manchester, in Laketon.
Wabash County feels like an extension of my family. I know people everywhere I go, and almost everyone is kind and invested in each other. Whether it be church family, local community members, or colleagues, Wabash County residents care about your well-being and what is happening in your life.
Our county is full of hidden treasures. My husband and I love mushroom hunting. Within a 25-minute drive from home, there are hundreds of acres with wildlife, lush landscapes, trails, and creeks. Although I was lucky enough to grow up here, I did spend some time away, and I still believe I would love this county just as much if I was a first-time resident upon moving back. It just feels like HOME!
Connect with Heather
Email: heathercruzlane@gmail.com
Cell: 317-642-6057
Amanda Boggs
WABASH
Lived in Wabash County for 35 years. Have worked in management and customer service for nearly 30 years. Married to my HS sweetheart for over 30 years. Together we have 3 children (2 married) and 2 grandchildren. I enjoy spending time with them boating, camping, hiking, etc. I also love being part of my local church community. In my spare time, I enjoy using my real estate license to assist clients in finding the home of their dreams or planning special events through my event coordinating and floral business. Wabash has provided the best opportunities to grow my family, my relationships, and my business experiences.
Connect with Amanda
Email: amanda@lundquistrealestate.com
Cell: 260-571-1322
Julie Garber
NORTH MANCHESTER
I have worked for nonprofits (MU, publishing, Community Foundation) throughout my career. I love big projects, problem-solving, and community development. When I’m not working, I enjoy adventure travel, distance hiking, and learning about things I didn’t know before (economics, the new Cuban constitution, environmental sustainability, architecture, science, everything!). I live on the river, right beside the covered bridge, and enjoy taking care of a garden full of native plants. The river has become a popular kayaking and canoeing super highway. I and a group of friends like to plant lawn chairs in the river when the water is low and the air is hot. We chat up the boaters, cook out, and enjoy river life.
Connect with Julie
Email: julie@cfwabash.org
Cell: 260-901-3083
Payton Deeter
WABASH
I currently am a real estate agent. My job revolves around helping people find the right housing option in Wabash Co. I also teach business classes at Northfield and Southwood High School, helping prepare the next generation as best as possible before they enter the workforce and begin to give back to Wabash Co. themselves. I also love baseball- I coach/umpire at Wabash Little League. My favorite thing about living in Wabash Co. is the sense of community everyone has. I feel like people are always so willing to go out of their way to help/support people in need. I also feel this small town is always going the extra mile to celebrate any and every achievement, making everyone feel valued in their role in the community.
Connect with Payton
Email: deeterpt07@gmail.com
Cell: 260-571-4407
Beth Miller
WABASH
I am a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. I spent most of my working years in the not-for-profit sector including 15 years at the Chamber of Commerce. I am now a realtor. I have also volunteered for many organizations. I am a member of Kiwanis, Elks, Wabash Area Community Theater, and Wabash Christian Church. I moved to Wabash in 1975 and have made it my home. I love the town and market it to everyone. I was at a conference and another acquaintance said I spent 20 minutes telling her what a great place Wabash is and encouraging her to visit. I would only like to see Wabash continue to prosper.
Connect with Beth
Email: beth@wabashmillers.com
Cell: 260-568-1128
McKenzie Roth
WABASH COUNTY
I have been fortunate enough to grow up in Wabash County! I’m currently still living in Wabash as I commute back and forth to my school Indiana University Kokomo. At IUK I am currently majoring in Biological and Physical Sciences, while double minoring in Sociology and Social Justice/ Communication.
When I’m not busy with school, you can find me in downtown Wabash! I currently work at the beautiful Honeywell Center (you can find me in the restaurant during the week, or before one of our awesome shows). You can also find me at the Wabash County Museum participating in one of the many fun educational activities planned for our community, or at Modoc’s coffee shop where I’m getting some much needed caffeine haha!
Living in Wabash County has given me many opportunities, one of the most amazing being I am currently the 2023 Wabash County Festivals Queen! The Wabash County Festivals Queen’s goal is to celebrate Wabash County for it’s achievements, while educating the community on how we came to become Wabash (The first electrically lighted city!). This role has given me the opportunity to meet many individuals and celebrate our tight knit community. There are many places in Wabash where we celebrate community, a few being on First Fridays or at the Farmers Market. However, everyday feels like a celebration when you live in Wabash County. I’m very excited for the opportunity to help build a welcoming community and create new connections with new residents!
Connect with McKenzie
Email: mckenzieroth2003@gmail.com
Cell: 260-571-5632