Logansport Community Engagement Initiatives: Smoke-Free Signs, School Board Vacancy, and Celebrated Educators
Logansport’s community continues to focus on health and education as multiple initiatives roll out to promote wellness and recognize local achievements. The Stand Up Cass County’s Youth Alcohol and Tobacco Prevention Workgroup recently announced plans to produce smoke-free signage for local businesses, emphasizing Indiana's law against smoking within eight feet of entrances.
The signs, which will also include notices for electronic smoking devices used for vaping, aim to promote healthier environments. Nikki Malott from Stand Up Cass County stated, “We noticed many Logansport businesses did not have this in place. We also noticed none of the state-provided signage included vaping on their signs.” The organization received assistance from Howard County Tobacco and Vape Free and is working to provide these signs translated to Haitian Creole and Spanish for wider community outreach. Any business or organization interested can obtain the signage free of charge, with some already distributed to the Logansport Police Department, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office, and Lady B’s on Broadway, among others.
Simultaneously, the Logansport Community School Corporation is seeking to fill a school board seat following the resignation of board member David M. McClure. This vacancy must be filled within 30 days, as stipulated by the School Corporation’s guidelines. District 1 will be affected, which includes residents within Clinton, Miami-Logan, Eel East, Eel West, and Wash-Logan township. The appointee will serve the remainder of McClure’s term, ending on December 31, 2028.
Prospective candidates are required to hold at least a high school diploma, be at least 21 years old, and be registered voters within the district. They also cannot have felony convictions or currently be employed by the Logansport Community School Corporation. Interested individuals should send their letters of interest and resumes to the President, Board of School Trustees, at the Logansport Community School Corporation’s office, with all materials due by January 10, 2025.
Meanwhile, the Logansport High School Alumni Association (LAA) recently announced the recipients for the 2024-25 grant funding, aimed at enhancing educational projects at Logansport Community Schools. A total of 19 applications were submitted, with grants awarded to various educators to support their innovative teaching ideas. These recipients include Kaina Mejia, Angie Huskey, Jenny Sweet, and others from Landis and Columbia schools. The LAA aims to connect and support passionate members of the community and will open the next grant application period in October 2025.
Education continues to flourish with the recognition of local teachers. Jenny Purciful, who has dedicated ten years to teaching at Pioneer Elementary, expressed her love for fostering enthusiasm for learning among her students. “Every day you come in and see you are making a difference in someone’s life,” she reflected. Purciful appreciates the welcoming atmosphere at her school, having grown up and raised her children within the Royal City community.
Local events also play an important role in bringing the community together. The Cass County Dentzel Carousel will be offering free rides on designated days, supported by local organizations. Events like this are integral to community engagement, fostering connections among residents.
The American Legion is gearing up to host its New Year’s Eve Party, open for all local residents wanting to celebrate together. With entertainment scheduled and festivities set to involve food, surprises, and more, the event promises to be lively. Those interested can purchase advanced tickets for convenience.
Other initiatives include community breakfasts at Deer Creek Presbyterian Church to boost local interactions and fundraising efforts aimed at helping those in need, as well as American Red Cross blood drives aiming to bolster donations for local patients. These efforts highlight the importance of community service and collective engagement.
Lastly, with events and gatherings like the Grief Share seminar beginning January 14, Logansport remains focused on providing support networks for residents. This program offers resources for those coping with loss, illustrating the community's commitment to mental health and emotional well-being.
Logansport stands as a shining example of community engagement, as efforts from local organizations collectively strive to make the city healthier and more inclusive through education, health initiatives, and communal support.
