Articles by Mike Rhodes

New Indiana Law Spotlights Urgency of Local Homelessness Crisis

By WaTasha Barnes Griffin— MUNCIE, IN—Homelessness is often viewed as a problem belonging to larger cities-something distant from our neighborhoods and daily lives. But the truth is far closer to home. Across Delaware County and throughout Central Indiana, individuals and families are experiencing housing instability at alarming rates due to job loss, domestic violence, mental health challenges, medical crises, rising rents, and the growing inability to afford safe, stable housing. This crisis becomes even more urgent as Indiana prepares to implement a new law on July 1st prohibiting unauthorized camping or sleeping on public property. While the legislation is intended…

Read More

Delaware County Historical Society Announces Steering Committee for 2027 Bicentennial Celebration

By Karen Vincent, Executive Director, Delaware County Historical Society— MUNCIE, IN — Community leaders across Delaware County have come together to form a steering committee that will guide planning and execution of the county’s Bicentennial Celebration in 2027. Marking 200 years since Delaware County’s founding in 1827, the bicentennial will be a once-in-a-generation opportunity to celebrate the county’s rich history, vibrant present, and promising future. The newly formed committee will help shape a series of events, initiatives, and community engagement opportunities designed to reflect the spirit of the entire county. The committee is co-chaired by Marcy Minton of The Community Foundation of Muncie…


Guardian Brewing Company and MadJax Bring Back Courtyard Summer Concert Series for 2026

By Carly Acree-King— MUNCIE, IN—The Guardian Brewing Company and MadJax Maker Force are bringing back the Courtyard Summer Concert Series for another season of live music in downtown Muncie. The free Saturday and First Thursdays concert series return this summer, along with new food truck additions.  Running from May through September, this year’s lineup features returning favorites and new performers across a variety of styles. Guests are encouraged to bring a chair, enjoy food and drinks, and spend the evening outdoors with friends, family, and neighbors.  “One of the things we’ve learned is that people are looking for places to…


City of Muncie Announces Temporary Designation of Acting Executive

By Amber Green– MUNCIE, IN — Pursuant to Indiana Code 36-4-5-8, the City of Muncie announces the temporary designation of Deputy Mayor Jeff Howe as Acting Executive during Mayor Dan Ridenour’s upcoming medical leave. As previously announced, Mayor Ridenour will be out of the office for surgery to treat recently discovered prostate cancer. Earlier this morning, Jeff Howe was formally appointed Deputy Mayor. In accordance with Indiana law, the temporary designation of Acting Executive will take effect at 12:00 a.m. on June 1, 2026, and will remain in place for fifteen days. Mr. Howe will continue to serve in his…


Shafer Leadership Academy Launches ‘AI Leadership Lab’ Conversation Series

Free monthly virtual gatherings will help leaders explore practical uses, ethics, and adoption of artificial intelligence By Arrick Garringer— MUNCIE, IN — Shafer Leadership Academy is launching AI Leadership Lab: Real Conversations about AI, a new monthly virtual conversation series designed to help professionals better understand and navigate the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence. The free series will take place monthly from 12:00–1:00 p.m. EST via Zoom and is open to professionals across industries and experience levels. Rather than traditional presentations or technical lectures, AI Leadership Lab is designed as an interactive conversation space where participants can explore real-world applications…


Muncie Community Schools Recognizes Teachers of the Year

Support staff, others also honored By Andy Klotz— MUNCIE, IN—Muncie Community Schools (MCS) has named the Teachers of the Year at each of its schools for the 2025-26 school year. All award recipients were presented with commemorative plaques by their building principals and now become eligible for the overall district Teacher of the Year awards, which will be presented at the start of the 2026-27 school year. This year’s recipients are: Nancy Zachary – North View Elementary Heather Crain – West View Elementary Andrea Streaty – Longfellow Elementary Jodi Gray – Grissom Elementary Tiara Taylor – East Washington Academy Tierra…


BY5’s Second Annual Early Childhood Professionals’ Summit

By Missy Modesitt, Executive Director, Muncie BY5— MUNCIE, IN—BY5’s Second Annual Early Childhood Professionals’ Summit on April 25, 2026 was more than an event — it was a powerful reminder of what happens when a community invests in the people shaping its youngest learners. With nearly 250 attendees from 10 counties gathering on a Saturday to learn, connect, and grow, the conference demonstrated the passion and dedication that exists within our early childhood workforce. This year’s theme, “Play Builds Brains, Advocacy Builds Futures,” captured the heart of the day. Early childhood educators know that play is not simply fun —…


Memorial Day Grilling Tips from Woof Boom Radio’s Steve Lindell

By Steve Lindell— MUNCIE, IN—Memorial Day is always one of the most popular “grilling” holidays on the calendar. I consider grilling an art form, not a “task.”  Grilling outside is something that I have grown to love, especially in recent years, as my wife Nancy shows SO much appreciation for the efforts.  It is a way for us to be outside, with nature, and the tastes created at the end of the process always make the whole family smile.  Another part of my enjoyment is the tremendous variations and experimentations that are always in play. In a word: it’s “FUN.”…


Tuhey Pool Opens To The Public on Saturday May 23, 2026

By Mike Rhodes, Editor-in-Chief— MUNCIE, IN—On Saturday May 23, 2026 Tuhey pool will open to the general public. The pool will be open the following hours and will include being open Monday, Memorial Day, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Then, Mondays- Closed. Tuesday- Club Swim.  Wednesday-Rental/reservation/special events. Thursday through Sunday- 11 a.m.-6 p.m. On Tuesday, May 26th the pool will be closed for maintenance. Daily admission for the pool is less than it was in 2020. Pricing Adults (18 & up) $5.00 Teens (13-17) $4.00 Child (3-12) $3.00 Seniors (65+) $2.00 Infants (0-2) Free 10 day punch card Adults- $45…


Wallace & Gromit™ Get Cracking! Invites Families to Explore Creativity Through Play 

By Brea Cunningham— MUNCIE, IN—Crack the code, test inventive contraptions, and step into the delightfully imaginative world of Wallace & Gromit! Minnetrista Museum & Gardens announces the opening of Wallace & Gromit™: Get Cracking!, on view now through September 20, 2026, in the Center Building, Gallery 3. Designed for children ages 3–9 and their families, this immersive exhibition invites visitors to explore creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on learning through playful interactive experiences inspired by the beloved animated duo. Inspired by the iconic characters created by Aardman Animations, the exhibition encourages children and families to experiment, collaborate, and think creatively together. Visitors can…