By Dr. Jeff Bird—
MUNCIE, IN—The Thomas Park/Avondale and South Central neighborhoods have long had a special place in my life. Many of my cousins grew up in the neighborhood and attended Southview elementary, Wilson middle school and Muncie Southside high school. I grew up watching my father play slow pitch softball for Local 287 at Thomas Park, and looked forward to an ice-cold root beer at the BK root beer stand on Memorial Drive after his games.
I then followed Dad in my young adulthood playing softball there for many years. I also helped coach my sons who often played and practiced at Thomas park before their high school days on the Muncie Central baseball team. I have distinct memories of the Chevy plant and its significant impact on the neighborhood and our community. The Ross center was— and is— a place for gathering for evening basketball games. And I always look forward to a great cup of coffee and connecting with our community members at the Rosebud Cafe.
I took the opportunity to connect with three of the many people making a difference in this neighborhood. Tiara Hicks is the owner of Rosebud Cafe, Cindy Miller is the new executive director of the Ross Center, and Pat Smith, the interim executive director of the 8/twelve Coalition. Their stories are incredible and the impact they are making in the neighborhood is significant.
L-R: Cindy Miller and Pat Smith. Photo by Dr. Jeff Bird.
The 8/twelve Coalition and the adjacent Thomas Park/Avondale and South Central neighborhoods are a cornerstone of Muncie. These three leaders, are among many who are volunteering their time and talent to stabilize and transform the neighborhood.
Tiara graduated from Cowan HS and Ball State University. She has always had an entrepreneurial spirit. When the opportunity to open Rosebud came along, she was excited to embark on a new journey. Tiara’s vision was to “create a space where people feel welcome, connected, and inspired over a great cup of coffee.” I can attest that she has exceeded that vision.
Cindy Miller grew up on a farm in Randolph County. She is also a graduate of Ball State with a degree in journalism and human resources. She has had several professional positions including teacher at Muncie Community Schools and working at Ball State.
Cindy says “I am thrilled to be part of the Ross Community Center and look forward to working with our community and partners to carry forward its mission and deepen its impact for those we serve. Building on its rich history in Muncie, I am committed to strengthening programs and partnerships that empower this diverse community to thrive.”
Pat Smith is an ordained minister and after a long career came to Muncie for the first time in 2016 to serve First Presbyterian Church as an interim pastor. That role lasted until 2019, but he never forgot Muncie. After a short stint in the Rocky Mountains serving his last church calling, he and his wife contemplated where they would reside in retirement and after much deliberation, Muncie felt like the best fit. Upon his return, the opportunity to serve as the interim director at 8/twelve came along and he was excited to take on this new role. For Pat, “people and connections” are his calling, and this role allows him to make a difference in our community.
These three individuals exemplify what’s good about Muncie, and inspire us to be our best selves and help them make a difference.
