Articles by Mike Rhodes

Snow Shoveling Tips to Protect Your Heart

By Tim Harms, American Heart Association— INDIANAPOLIS –Walking in a winter wonderland may sound serene and peaceful, however, shoveling your sidewalks to take that walk could quickly change delightful to deadly. According to the American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, research shows that the exertion of shoveling snow may lead to an increased risk of a heart attack or sudden cardiac arrest. In rural communities where EMS responses can be…

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Utilities Brace for Incoming Snow Storm, Offer Tips For Customers

Editor’s note: A number of local utilities have sent MuncieJournal.com updates and advice on how to handle the upcoming winter storm. We have combined them all into this one article. Indiana and Michigan Power As a blast of extreme winter cold and snow is expected this weekend, Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) wants to help customers stay safe and warm while keeping costs as low as possible. There When You Need Us If there are power outages, I&M employees will respond…


Community Foundation Granted Over $4.2 Million In 2025

By Kallie Sulanke— Muncie, Ind. – The Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County awarded $4,281,329.27 in grants and scholarships in 2025, strengthening its mission to enhance the quality of life for Delaware County residents. Most grants were awarded through permanently endowed funds, ensuring a greater Muncie and Delaware County today, tomorrow, and always.  Community Grants Program  Local nonprofit organizations received $1,692,986.00 through the competitive Community Grants Program. Community Grants are awarded to address the broad needs in arts and…


Open Door Health Services Announces CEO Retirement and Launches Search for Next Leader

By Erin Moore— MUNCIE, IN—Open Door Health Services’ president and CEO, Bryan Ayars, has announced his intention to retire in mid-2026. Ayars has served as Open Door’s CEO for nearly a decade, guiding the organization through significant growth and the COVID-19 pandemic. He will continue to serve as CEO while the Open Door Board of Directors completes a national search and identifies his replacement. “Professionally, I’ve long held the belief that a decade leading an organization is about the right…


Destination: Muncie Has Launched ‘Destination: Munchie Restaurant Rally’

By  Lena Reid— MUNCIE, IN—Destination: Muncie is inviting locals and visitors to eat their way through Delaware County with Destination: Munchie, a limited-time dining campaign celebrating the community’s culinary scene. Running now through January 31, participating restaurants will offer an exclusive three-course menu at a set price determined by each restaurant. Menus and pricing will vary, and some locations may require reservations. “When we support our restaurants, we support jobs, small businesses, and the overall visitor experience that makes Muncie…


Muncie-Based Family Life Institute of Indiana, LLC Launches

By John Anderson, EdD— MUNCIE, IN — The Family Life Institute of Indiana, LLC (FLII), a newly established Muncie-based organization, has officially launched with a mission to strengthen families, improve relational health, and support community well-being through education, prevention, and systems-informed services. Founded by John Anderson EdD, an educator and family-life professional with extensive experience in higher education leadership, community engagement, and adult learning, the Institute is designed to serve families, professionals, and organizations seeking proactive, evidence-informed approaches to family…


Quiet ‘Zenbooth Pods’ Now Available at Muncie Public Library

By Susan Fisher, MPL Public Relations— MUNCIE, IN—As regular library visitors know, most libraries are no longer hushed spaces where silence is revered. Instead, today’s libraries are vibrant spaces for customers of all ages where learning can take place out loud during story times, programs, and book clubs. While some quiet nooks still exist for reading and reflection, Muncie Public Library customers continue to seek out spaces within the libraries for studying, tutoring, or attendance in online meetings or consultations….


City Neighborhoods: A Muncie Action Plan Task Force 3 Update

By Heather Williams— MUNCIE, IN—As the Muncie Action Plan (MAP) looks back on a productive year, we are excited to reflect on our continued efforts to enhance the quality of life in Muncie and Delaware County. We invite the community to join us for our Annual Report to the Community, taking place Wednesday, January 28, at 6:00 p.m. in the Multi-Purpose Room at Ivy Tech. During this gathering, each of MAP’s four task forces will present their accomplishments and progress…


Minnetrista Announces Transition to Dual Leadership Model 

By Brea Cunningham— MUNCIE, IN—Minnetrista Museum & Gardens, has announced the adoption of a dual leadership model, effective January 2026, designed to enhance strategic capacity and support the organization’s continued growth and community impact. Under this structure, Brian Statz will continue serving as Chief Executive Officer, and Lindsey Horan has been named President. The new leadership structure was initiated by Statz and developed in collaboration with Minnetrista’s Board leadership and Executive Committee, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to governance and long-term…


January is National Mentoring Month

By Tami Silverman, President & CEO of Indiana Youth Institute— INDIANAPOLIS—January invites reflection and renewal. The new year opens before us, full of possibility, hope, and resolve. Fittingly, January also is National Mentoring Month, a time to recognize the power of relationships and the powerful impact caring adults can have in a young person’s life. At Indiana Youth Institute, this month carries special meaning. IYI is home to MENTOR Indiana, the state’s leader for quality youth mentoring and Indiana’s affiliate…