Articles by Mike Rhodes

BBF Grantee Spotlight: Empowering Young Men and Strengthening Community Bonds in Muncie

By Jud Fisher— MUNCIE, IN—Growing up on the streets of Muncie and struggling with alcohol abuse, Melvin Kelly, founder of Brothers to Brothers United (B2B), navigated many challenges. Now, he hopes his life story and vision for B2B can inspire change in the lives of young males in our community.   B2B, a nonprofit organization in Muncie, is dedicated to bridging the gap between older and younger Black men, offering mentorship, education programs, and a shared community to vulnerable and at-risk…

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Old West End Neighborhood Introduces ‘Social Programs Signs Project’

By Brad King, President Old West End Neighborhood Association— MUNCIE, IN—You may have seen some changes to signage in the Old West End neighborhood, or you may have seen some neighborhood association members on ladders messing with certain street signs. We are not changing parking zones, or stealing public signs. We are installing our Social Programs Signs project. This project is part informational and part placemaking. The association had originally come up with 4 sign designs that would have QR…


Ball State University Launches Indiana’s Only Comprehensive Program in Forensic Science

By University Communications— MUNCIE, IN – Ball State University’s College of Sciences and Humanities has announced its newest exciting degree program: the Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science. This new offering—in line with the University’s mission of engaging students in educational, research, and creative endeavors that empower graduates to have fulfilling careers and meaningful lives—will focus on the application of scientific knowledge and methods to investigate crimes, enforce government regulations, and resolve civil disputes. “The College of Sciences and Humanities…


Karen Vincent Hired as Delaware County Historical Society’s New Executive Director

By Chris Flook— MUNCIE, IN—The Delaware County Historical Society is excited to announce the hiring of a new executive director, Karen Vincent. A one year grant to fund the position was generously provided by the Ball Brothers Foundation this spring. Vincent is a respected leader in local history. She spent 31 years as the director of collections at Minnetrista Museum and Gardens. A long-time supporter of the DCHS, Vincent served on the society’s board of directors for almost a decade,…


TWG, City, and Partners Break Ground for $27 Million Kilgore Place Apartments

By Michele Owen— MUNCIE, IN—In 2023, the City of Muncie was awarded a competitive Tax Credit program to help fund a 120-unit apartment complex on State Road 32, next to Silver Birch Apartments. The complex, which will be called Kilgore Place, will contain a mix of income-based and market rate units, along with a dog park and a variety of on-site services for residents. The developer is TWG, who also built Riverbend Flats on the east side. On Thursday, July…


Indiana Black Expo Muncie Chapter To Name 2024 Honorees in African American Culture

By WaTasha Barnes Griffin— MUNCIE, IN—Indiana Black Expo Muncie Chapter will “Celebrate Culture, Heritage, and Community” and honor contributors to African American culture, progress and achievement in Muncie-Delaware County on Thursday, July 18, 2024 during its 29th Annual Corporate Luncheon. This year’s theme is Educate. Empower. Elevate. Mayor Dan Ridenour will provide opening remarks and luncheon keynote, Muncie native, Dr. Mia Johnson, Chancellor of Ivy Tech Anderson, will highlight the power of education and community. Community awards will be presented…


Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Application Now Available

By Kallie Sulanke— MUNCIE, IN—Incoming high school seniors can now apply online for the 2025 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship administered by The Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County. Applicants must be residents of Delaware County, Ind., and attend an accredited high school in Delaware County. The Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship in Muncie and Delaware County awards a student who possesses leadership potential who is well-rounded and community-minded. The scholarship covers tuition and required fees for four years of full-time…


Muncie Fire Station 6 Placement Finalized

By Michele Owen— MUNCIE, IN—Fire Station 6 is one of the most strategic stations in the City of Muncie. Due to the train tracks running parallel to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Station 6 is the only station that can serve Whitely and the East side of Muncie when a train is present. Station 6 is also in desperate need of repair, with numerous foundation, mold, and livability issues. The plans to replace Fire Station 6 have been discussed…


Nonprofit Support Network Invites Proposals for Breakout Sessions at Annual Nonprofit Summit

By Carly Acree King— MUNCIE, IN—Nonprofit Support Network is accepting proposals for breakout sessions for its second annual Nonprofit Summit on Wednesday, October 30, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 pm at Horizon Convention Center. The summit will highlight the impact of collaboration through educational sessions, interactive discussions, and networking opportunities for nonprofit professionals across the sector. “Our region is home to an incredible nonprofit sector, filled with dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to make a difference,” shared Carly Acree King,…


Red-tail Land Conservancy Unveils New Interpretive Signs at Dutro-Ernst Woods

By Kelley V. Phillips, Assistant Director— MUNCIE, IN—Red-tail Land Conservancy is excited to announce the installation of new interpretive signs at Muncie’s popular urban nature preserve Dutro-Ernst Woods. These signs are designed to enhance visitors’ understanding and appreciation of the natural features and habitats of the preserve. The beautifully illustrated signs provide information about the interdependence of local plants, animals, and habitats within the nature preserve. Visitors can now learn about birds, mammals, insects, trees, and more and the important…