Articles by Mike Rhodes

Walnut Street in downtown Muncie. Photo by Mike Rhodes

Business July 25, 2025

Yes, Every Small Business Matters: 5 Reasons Why Supporting Local Means Building a Stronger Muncie

By Ted A. Baker, CEO, Muncie Innovation Connector, Inc.— MUNCIE, IN—Walk down Walnut Street on a sunny afternoon, and you’ll hear the buzz of Muncie’s entrepreneurial heartbeat: neighbors grabbing coffee at The Caffeinery, community members enjoying the food and games at the Clubhouse, and creatives discussing ideas over lunch at Twin Archer or Casa Del Sol. This isn’t just the charm of a Midwestern city—it’s the economic engine of Muncie and Delaware County. Small businesses don’t just add character to…

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A Fire Up DWNTWN attendee explores merchandise.

Entertainment July 24, 2025

Downtown Merchants ‘Fire Up’ the Fun at This Year’s Fire Up DWNTWN Celebration

By Vicki Veach, Executive Director, Muncie Downtown Development Partnership— MUNCIE, IN—Downtown Muncie is set to sizzle with local business specials, Saturday, August 2nd during Fire Up DWNTWN—an all-day celebration filled with live entertainment, food and drink, family activities, a Liquid Iron Pour, special shape hot air balloons, fireworks and more. Many downtown businesses will add to the excitement, offering unique experiences throughout the event. 1925 PubHouse: Spicy Pineapple Jalapeño Margarita special • Aw Yeah Comics: Sizzling deals on the hottest…

Graphic by Storyblocks.

Entertainment July 24, 2025

Magician Wayne Hinkel to Perform at Muncie’s Northside Middle School on July 24

By Jennifer Cooper— MUNCIE, IN—A Grand Night of Magic with magician Wayne Hinkle will take place at Northside Middle School on July 24th, beginning at 6 p.m. Longtime magician and Muncie resident Wayne Hinkel has been recognized by the International Brotherhood of Magicians for his  50 years of contributions to the entertainment of countless audiences. He is a member of the Order of Merlin and recipient of its Excalibur Award. Wayne began his magic career when he was 10 years…

L-R: Greg Beumer and David Lenkensdofer.

Non-Profit July 24, 2025

League of Women Voters to Host Meeting on Solar and Wind Energy

By Sheryl Swingley— MUNCIE, IN—The League of Women Voters of Indiana will host a public meeting at 5 p.m. Monday, July 28, at the Maring-Hunt Library Branch located at 2005 S High St in Muncie for residents interested in learning more about how solar and wind – or renewables – affect a county government’s budget. Speakers will be from Randolph County. They are Greg Beumer and David Lenkensdofer. Randolph County is one of a handful of Indiana counties at the…

Southside Middle School. Photo by Mike Rhodes

Health July 23, 2025

Meridian to Host Back-To-School Fit Fair at Muncie Southside Middle School on July 23

By Hannah Dunckel— MUNCIE, IN— Meridian Health Services, with support from presenting sponsor Pridemark Construction, is hosting the Back-to-School Fit Fair on Wednesday, July 23 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Southside Middle School located at 1601 E. 26th St., Muncie, IN 47302. This event is being held in conjunction with Muncie Community Schools’ registration day. The community and people of all ages are invited to the Back-to-School Fit Fair featuring: FREE Health Fair & Fitness Zone including: Health…

Ball Brothers Foundation President & CEO Jud Fisher with Muncie Land Bank board member and 2024 Fisher Governance Award recipient, Dr. John West. Photo provided.

Non-Profit July 23, 2025

Deadline Approaching For 2025 Fisher Governance Award Nominations

By Jud Fisher, President/CEO, Ball Brothers Foundation— MUNCIE, IN — Delaware County nonprofit organizations are invited to nominate a board member for the John W. and Janice B. Fisher Governance Award before the deadline on August 15. The award, given by Ball Brothers Foundation, recognizes the important role board members play in strategic planning and financial oversight to achieve their organization’s mission. The award recipient will receive a $10,000 grant for their organization. “Board members often work behind the scenes,…

Photo provided

Entertainment July 22, 2025

Step Into a World of Wonder: Faeries, Sprites, & Lights Returns to Minnetrista This Week

By Brea Cunningham— MUNCIE, IN—Every summer, Oakhurst Gardens transforms into a magical realm where imagination reigns and the spirit of childhood takes flight. Inspired by young Elisabeth “Betty” Ball—who once roamed these very grounds in faerie wings and glittering joy—Faeries, Sprites, & Lights invites families to rediscover the enchantment that lives in all of us. From July 24–26, faerie fans of all ages are encouraged to don their most whimsical attire and enter a world alive with fantasy. Each evening from…

A view of the lobby area of Emens Auditorium. Photo by Mike Rhodes.

Entertainment July 21, 2025

Emens Auditorium Artist Series Subscription Renewals Are Now Available

By Haley Wade— MUNCIE, IN—Muncie is thrilled to announce that the Emens Auditorium Artist Series Subscription are ready for renewals. Artist Series Subscribers can save with this package deal that allows them to attend 5 select Broadway shows each season. This season is stacked with hits, including these Artist Series picks: The Addams Family – September 23, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. Doubtfire – October 30, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. The Tina Turner Musical – November 19, 2025 at 7:30 p.m….

Photo by StoryBlocks

Education July 21, 2025

Changes In Indiana Law Impacting Our Students 

By Tami Silverman, President & CEO of Indiana Youth Institute— INDIANAPOLIS—On July 1, several new education laws took effect across Indiana, bringing changes that will shape the experiences of students, families, educators, and youth-serving professionals. These changes cover everything from math skills and graduation readiness to teacher pay, school safety, and how we support students navigating challenges like absenteeism or career uncertainty. To help us stay informed and prepared to best serve children and youth, below are highlights of the…

Photo provided by Ball State University.

Education July 20, 2025

Ball State University Honors More Than 1,300 Graduates at Summer Commencement Ceremony

By Ball State Communications— MUNCIE, IN – Ball State University celebrated its Class of 2025 on Saturday, conferring more than 1,300 doctoral, specialist, master’s, and bachelor’s degrees during its Summer Commencement ceremony. Held in Worthen Arena on the Ball State campus, the event featured an address by David Taylor Little, associate teaching professor in the Department of Theatre and Dance. A 2024 recipient of the Outstanding Creative Endeavor Award, Prof. Little delivered his address, “Buckle Up, Buttercup!”, in which he…