Articles by Mike Rhodes

Muncie Civic Theater guests lite up the stage with 1920s glamour and high spirits. This year’s Symbols & Secrets Gala promises another unforgettable night of mystery, elegance, and community celebration at Muncie Civic Theatre. Photo provided.

Entertainment September 15, 2025

Muncie Civic Theatre to Host Second Annual ‘Symbols and Secrets’ Event

By Maggie Sadler— MUNCIE, IN – An air of mystery will fill the halls of Muncie Civic Theatre on Saturday, October 18 when the theatre hosts its second annual Civic Soirée: Symbols & Secrets. Inspired by the intrigue of The Da Vinci Code, this immersive evening invites guests to trade a typical fundraiser for an elegant night of adventure. Attendees will be swept into a museum-like setting complete with hidden clues and codes woven throughout the theatre. Between the chase…

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Afro Peruvian Jazz Orchestra. Photo by Rene Heumer.

Entertainment September 15, 2025

Afro Peruvian Jazz Orchestra to Perform Free Outdoor Concert on September 20 on Ball State Campus

By Rick Zeigler— MUNCIE, IN— The GRAMMY-nominated Afro Peruvian Jazz Orchestra will be performing in a FREE outdoor concert as part of the 2025 Muncie Three Trails Music Series. The concert will take place at 7:00 PM on Saturday, September 20th at Brown Family Amphitheater on the campus of Ball State University.  The Ball State University Jazz Ensemble will open the show7 The Afro Peruvian Jazz Orchestra (APJO) is a dynamic 17-piece ensemble that expertly blends jazz with traditional Peruvian…

IU Health Ball's women’s and children’s service line team members are pictured. Photo provided.

Health September 13, 2025

IU Health Ball Receives Level III Obstetric and Neonatal Facility Recertification

By Courtney Schmoll, Regional Communications, IU Health East Region— MUNCIE, IN – The Indiana State Department of Health has re-certified Indiana University Health Ball Memorial Hospital as a Level III obstetric and Level III neonatal facility under the state’s Level of Care program. Level III hospitals are equipped to care for complex maternal medical conditions and obstetric complications, as well as infants requiring neonatal intensive care. “The level of maternal and neonatal care we provide means mothers and babies receive the right…

Flags of Honor is sponsored by the Exchange Club of Muncie. Photo provided.

Non-Profit September 11, 2025

Flags of Honor to be Held at Minnetrista From September 4 to Closing Program on September 11

By Erin Ailstock— MUNCIE, IN — While every day is an opportunity to show gratitude to those who serve and protect our nation, some days on the calendar are set aside specifically to honor them. Patriot Day is one of those days—a time to remember and support the individuals in the United States who dedicate their lives, careers, and, in some cases, make the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our freedom. The Flags of Honor display will be available to experience…

The Mayor's Arts Awards will take place at Muncie Civic Theater in downtown Muncie. Photo provided.

Entertainment, Government September 10, 2025

Mayor’s Arts Awards to Honor Local Artists, Advocates on September 19 at Muncie Civic Theater

By Michelle Kinsey—  MUNCIE, IN—The office of Muncie Mayor Dan Ridenour and the Muncie Arts and Culture Council (MuncieArts) are pleased to announce more than 20 nominees for the 2025 Mayor’s Arts Awards. This year, the Mayor’s Arts Awards is marking 10 years of celebrating Muncie’s vibrant arts community. The ceremony will be Friday, Sept. 19, at 7 p.m. at Muncie Civic Theatre, 216 E. Main St. Register for the free event here. “As the City of Muncie’s arts partner,…

John Jay Center for Learning. Photo provided.

Education September 10, 2025

Ivy Tech Muncie to Host Ribbon Cutting, Welcomes Jay County Into Service Area

By Lesley DeVoss— MUNCIE, Ind. – Ivy Tech Community College Muncie is proud to announce a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the John Jay Center for Learning on Friday, September 12, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The celebration marks a new chapter for the region, as Jay County officially joins Ivy Tech’s Muncie service area—expanding access to higher education, workforce training, and opportunities for students and employers. “This is more than a ribbon cutting,” said Jeff Scott, Chancellor of Ivy Tech Muncie….

Photo by Storyblockis

Business September 10, 2025

Grace Beauty College Launches Indiana’s First Cosmetology and Barber Apprenticeship Program

20+ Salons Partnered Statewide, 80 Students Enrolled Beginning September 9th By Teresa Long— MUNCIE, IN — Grace Beauty College, led by founder and state sponsor Teresa Long, proudly announces the launch of Indiana’s first state-approved Cosmetology and Barber Apprenticeship Program. The program officially begins on September 9, 2025, with more than 80 students enrolled and over 20 salons and barbershops statewide serving as training sites. The apprenticeship program offers a groundbreaking pathway for aspiring cosmetologists and barbers to earn while…

Volunteers are pictured preparing sack lunches at the Soup Kitchen of Muncie. Photo provided.

Non-Profit September 10, 2025

Soup Kitchen of Muncie to Host Farm to Table Dinner Fundraiser on September 17

By Dottie Kreps— MUNCIE, IN—The volunteers and staff of the Soup Kitchen of Muncie witness the reality of hunger in our community everyday. Some guests arrive each morning for a cup of coffee and to chat before getting their food and heading out to face the day. Others are new faces seeking a hot meal and a welcoming space. No matter who walks through the doors, each person is greeted with a smile, respect, and compassion. In 2024, the Soup…

Photo provided.

Non-Profit September 9, 2025

Open Door Announces 2nd Annual Decades Dash 5K & 10K Fundraiser

By Erin Moore — MUNCIE, IN. — Get ready to run through the decades for a great cause! Open Door Health Services is excited to announce the return of the Decades Dash, presented by eKeeper, on Saturday, October 11, 2025. The 5K Run/Walk and 10K Run combines fitness, fun, and fundraising to support individuals and families in need.Starting at Canan Commons at 8 a.m., runners and walkers will enjoy a scenic course that winds through the heart of downtown Muncie and…

Ball State University President Geoffrey Mearns (left) and Ball Brothers Foundation President & CEO Jud Fisher (right) discuss The Village revitalization project, which includes a new performing arts center, hotel, residential housing, and innovation hub.

Education, Non-Profit September 8, 2025

Q&A With Ball State President Geoffrey Mearns on the Village Revitalization Project

By Jud Fisher— MUNCIE, IN – For decades, The Village served as a popular destination just off Ball State’s campus—home to locally owned shops, restaurants, and a lively social scene. It was a place where students, residents, and visitors mingled over drinks, music, and weekend plans. In more recent years, though, The Village has faced its share of challenges, with fewer businesses and less foot traffic than in its heyday. Now, a major revitalization effort is breathing new life into…