Articles by Mike Rhodes

Join the Halloween Fun at Muncie Mall’s ‘Spooktacular Malloween’

Entertainment October 6, 2025

Join the Halloween Fun at Muncie Mall’s ‘Spooktacular Malloween’

By Seth Smith, Hull Property Group— MUNCIE, IN — Get ready for a night of spooky fun at Muncie Mall’s annual Malloween Celebration! Families are invited to join us on Friday, October 31, 2025, starting at 6:00 PM, for a night of tricks, treats, and Halloween smiles. Enjoy trick-or-treating at participating stores, free candy (while supplies last), and plenty of opportunities to show off your best costumes. This family-friendly event is free to attend, making it the perfect way to…

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Ball Brothers Foundation Hosts Outdoor Learning Field Trip Showcasing Local Nature-Based Programs

Non-Profit October 3, 2025

Ball Brothers Foundation Hosts Outdoor Learning Field Trip Showcasing Local Nature-Based Programs

By Jud Fisher, President/CEO, Ball Brothers Foundation— MUNCIE, IN — Nearly 40 community leaders—including early childhood professionals, K–12 school administrators and teachers, nonprofit leaders, university representatives, and funders—joined Ball Brothers Foundation last month for a day-long Outdoor Learning Field Trip exploring innovative outdoor play and learning spaces across Delaware County. The field trip highlighted how local schools and organizations are embracing outdoor play and nature-based education as tools for growth, creativity, and community vitality. Stops on the tour included: Mitchell…

Muncie League of Women Voters to Sponsor Public Meeting on Free Speech, Academic Freedom

Government October 3, 2025

Muncie League of Women Voters to Sponsor Public Meeting on Free Speech, Academic Freedom

By Sheryl Swingley— MUNCIE, IN—“Government Intrusion, Free Speech and Academic Freedom: Dangerous Professors in the Hoosier State” will be the topic of a public meeting of the League of Women Voters of Muncie-Delaware County at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, at the Unitarian-Universalist Church, 4800 W. Bradford Drive. Admission is free. George Wolfe, professor Emeritus at Ball State University who was once listed among the “101 most dangerous academics in America,” will be the speaker. During his four-year tenure as…

Forge ECI Names Caitlin Hancock as President and CEO

Business October 2, 2025

Forge ECI Names Caitlin Hancock as President and CEO

By Dawn Brand Fluhler— MUNCIE, IN  – Forge ECI, the regional economic development organization representing nine counties across East Central Indiana, has announced the appointment of Caitlin Hancock as its new President and Chief Executive Officer. Hancock, who has served as Interim President/CEO since May, assumes the role permanently following a nationwide search. “Caitlin emerged as the clear choice among more than 20 candidates,” said Garrett Doan, Chair of Forge ECI’s Board of Directors. “Her decade of experience within the…

‘Rev the Red’ for Ball State University Homecoming, Oct. 13–18

Education October 2, 2025

‘Rev the Red’ for Ball State University Homecoming, Oct. 13–18

By Ball State University Communications— MUNCIE, IN — Ball State University will celebrate its 99th Homecoming Oct. 13–18, as Cardinals everywhere are invited back to campus to take part in a week of pride, tradition, and community spirit. This year’s Homecoming theme, “Rev the Red,” highlights the energy and excitement that alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends bring to Ball State each Fall. The celebration culminates Saturday, Oct. 18, when the Cardinals face Akron University at 3:30 p.m. in Scheumann Stadium. Tickets…

Muncie’s Red-tail Land Conservancy Protects 15 Acres Along Elkhorn Creek

Non-Profit October 2, 2025

Muncie’s Red-tail Land Conservancy Protects 15 Acres Along Elkhorn Creek

By Kendalynn Ross— MUNCIE, IN — Red-tail Land Conservancy is proud to announce the successful protection of Elkhorn Creek Preserve, a 15-acre stream and forest habitat that joins with the East Fork of the Whitewater River in Wayne County. This acquisition safeguards an ecologically rich stretch of one of the highest-quality tributaries in the region. Elkhorn Creek cuts through limestone bedrock, forming a steep ravine that supports wetland pools, migratory wildlife, and diverse plant life. This unique area lies within…

City of Muncie and Delaware County Partner for East McGalliard Road Improvements

Government September 30, 2025

City of Muncie and Delaware County Partner for East McGalliard Road Improvements

By Muncie Mayor Dan Ridenour, Commissioner Shannon Henry, Commissioner Stephen Brand  Commissioner Sherry Riggin and Amber Greene— MUNCIE and DELAWARE COUNTY, IN—We are pleased to share that the Delaware County Highway Department and the City of Muncie Street Department are working together on a temporary paving project to improve East McGalliard Road. This project is a strong example of two local governments partnering for the benefit of the entire community. McGalliard Road is one of the most heavily traveled corridors…

ArtsWalk Highlights for the October 2nd Event in Downtown Muncie

Entertainment September 29, 2025

ArtsWalk Highlights for the October 2nd Event in Downtown Muncie

By Vicki Veach, Executive Director, Downtown Development Partnership— MUNCIE, IN—The ArtsWalk Lineup on Thursday, October 2, from 5–8 p.m. Art, music, food, history, and community will come together in the heart of DWNTWN, transforming familiar spaces into a stage for local creativity. Highlights include: Galleries & Exhibits – Gordy Fine Art & Framing Company, Cornerstone Center for the Arts, Art at the Murray, Carrie Wright Silk Gifts, ECAP Gallery, Made in Muncie, MuncieArts, and more. DWNTWN IDOL Finale – 6…

September 29 Groundbreaking Celebration for Habitat for Humanity ‘Gateway Gathering Space’

Non-Profit September 29, 2025

September 29 Groundbreaking Celebration for Habitat for Humanity ‘Gateway Gathering Space’

By Tania Said and Amber Greene— MUNCIE, IN — Muncie Arts and Culture Council (MuncieArts) is proud to invite the public to a groundbreaking celebration for the Habitat for Humanity Gateway Gathering Space, a new public artwork designed by artist Greg Mueller. This sculptural installation – part of a $500,000 public art initiative funded by the City of Muncie through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) – will create a welcoming and reflective space for neighbors and families at the…

Ball State’s Board of Trustees Highlight Fall 2025 Enrollment Gains, Muncie Community Schools Progress

Education September 29, 2025

Ball State’s Board of Trustees Highlight Fall 2025 Enrollment Gains, Muncie Community Schools Progress

By Ball State University Communications— MUNCIE, IN — The Ball State University Board of Trustees on Friday received updates on Fall 2025 enrollment and the continued progress of its historic partnership with Muncie Community Schools (MCS). Paula Luff, Ball State’s vice president for enrollment planning and management, reported that Ball State welcomed 3,733 new freshmen this Fall. This is the third consecutive year in which the University has enrolled a freshman class larger than its pre-pandemic average. The incoming class…