Articles by Mike Rhodes

By Kelley Phillips— ECI land trust with local artists and author have published a book of paintings and poetry. Muncie, IN – Red-tail Land Conservancy has published their first book, titled “A Brush with Nature,” in collaboration with the Union City Plein Air Painters and local children’s book author Laurie Lunsford. “A Brush with Nature” illustrates the actual forests, prairies, wetlands, and waterways of east central Indiana that have been preserved by Red-tail. In the book, the main character is a red-tail hawk who observes the changing seasons. Included in some of the paintings are hidden paint brushes that the…

By Kristen McConnell— Muncie, IN—The YMCA of Muncie, in partnership with Muncie Community Schools, has been approved to receive state funding to support after school programs at East Washington Academy and Southview Elementary. Through the 1008 Student Learning Recovery Grant Program Fund, the Y will Provide after school support at no cost to the families in two elementary schools. After school support is essential to getting students back on track and reducing learning loss. The Y will provide support to students in literacy, numeracy, character development and college readiness through proven curriculum and programs. “There is a growing need for…

By Susan Fisher, MPL— Muncie, IN—Babies, kids, teens, and even adults can sign up for the Summer Reading Program (SRP) at Muncie Public Library (MPL). The 2021 program runs from June 14 through July 25. This year’s theme is “Tails & Tales” and kids will find fun and fascinating virtual and in-person activities and events, such as science programs, story times, and more. Most in-person events for children will be held outdoors, weather permitting. Kids can also pick up animal-themed take and make kits to enjoy at home. “Reading is such an important part of learning,” said Akilah S. Nosakhere,…

By Melissa Jones— Muncie, IN— In its first round of grants for 2021, Ball Brothers Foundation’s Board of Directors approved more than $3.3 million in funding, including COVID-19 vaccine distribution and messaging support to local health organizations, and recovery and rebuilding support to Delaware County schools. The COVID-19 vaccination support totals $250,000, with grants awarded to Ball State University, Delaware County Health Department, Delaware County Office of Information, IU Health Foundation, Meridian Health Services and Open Door Health Services. These grants were a part of Ball Brothers Foundation’s multi-phase funding effort. The third phase, “Operation Bright Light,” invited health organizations…

By Dominic Bordenaro, Data & Marketing Coordinator, Boys & Girls Clubs of Muncie— Muncie, IN—The Boys & Girls Clubs of Muncie is honored to have received a grant from the Ball Brothers Foundation totaling $300,000 over two years. This grant will help offset operating costs and allow the Clubs to pursue two goals set for the next two years: continue to provide great out of school time programs through ourYouth Development Professionals and strategically place the Clubs in a position of growth. The grant will be used to equip staff with tools, resources, and professional development training needed to foster…