Articles by Mike Rhodes

A screenshot from downtownmuncie.org

Non-Profit March 6, 2024

Find Your Place: DWNTWN Muncie Unveils New Website

By Meghan Andrews— MUNCIE, IN—Downtown Muncie, a beacon of vibrancy and community spirit, announces the launch of its dynamic new website, inviting residents and visitors alike to embark on a journey of discovery and connection. With the unveiling of DowntownMuncie.org, individuals can now “Find Your Place” in the heart of Muncie’s bustling downtown scene. The newly designed website serves as a central hub for exploring the rich tapestry of downtown Muncie, offering an array of resources, event listings, and interactive…

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Carrie Wright is pictured with Indiana Senator Scott Alexander along with her hand painted silk artwork. Photo provided

Business March 5, 2024

Muncie Artist Carrie Wright Chosen for Hoosier Women Artists Exhibition

By Mike Rhodes, Editor-in-Chief— MUNCIE, IN—The Hoosier Women Artists program was created in 2008 to celebrate and expand the role art plays in our communities. Each year female Indiana artists are encouraged to submit artwork for consideration. The pieces chosen are then displayed for the year in the Statehouse offices of female elected officials, including in 2024: Lieutenant Governor Suzanne Crouch, Secretary of Education Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana State Health Commissioner Dr. Lindsay Weaver, and Chief Justice Loretta Rush. First…

Trey Mathews, photo provided

Education March 5, 2024

Ball State Student, Local Native Trey Mathews Awarded Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship

By Ball State Marketing and Communications— MUNCIE, IN – Trey Mathews, a Muncie, Ind., native and sophomore Honors College student at Ball State University, has been awarded a Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship to support his study abroad endeavors. This federally-funded, nationally competitive program provides up to $5,000 to U.S. undergraduate students pursuing academic studies abroad to better prepare them to assume significant roles in an increasingly global economy and interdependent world. Additional support is available to selected students who…

Representatives from the Indiana National Guard spoke at the convening about the 127th Cyber Protection Battalion, a first-of-its kind unit in the Indiana National Guard which trains Hoosier citizen-soldiers to become cyber operations specialists able to defend cyber networks and address growing cyber threats. Photo courtesy of Ball State University

Non-Profit March 5, 2024

Military, Law Enforcement, Higher Ed Officials Convene in Muncie to Discuss Cybersecurity

By Jud Fisher— MUNCIE, IN—Last month, officials from the miliary, law enforcement, and local universities gathered in Muncie to discuss cybercrime, cybersecurity, and the future of workforce training for growing cyber needs. Convened by Ball Brothers Foundation, the group was addressed by Major General Dale Lyles. Lyles commands the Indiana National Guard, a force of over 13,500 troops across Indiana who serve both in Indiana and abroad. Among the forces under Lyles’ command is the 127th Cyber Protection Battalion, a…

Photo by Matt Ruddick

Entertainment March 4, 2024

Cornfed Roller Derby ‘Crop Circle Showdown’

By Debra Roberts— Muncie, IN – In the second home bout of Season 11, Cornfed Roller Derby (CFRD) will be taking on Circle City Roller Derby from Indianapolis in the Crop Circle Showdown on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at the Delaware County Fairgrounds Community Building. In the first of two games, Corned All-Stars will battle the Circle City Socialites, followed by the Cornfed Killer Kernels facing the Circle City Party Crashers. Doors for this doubleheader open at 4 p.m., with…

This photo shows a portion of the area on Tillotson Avenue where Indiana Michigan Power will be doing the work. Photo by Mike Rhodes

Business February 29, 2024

I&M to Begin Construction on Underground Power Line on Tillotson Avenue Next Week

By Tracy Warner— MUNCIE, IN– Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) representatives plan to start construction next week to rebuild an aging underground power line along Tillotson Avenue in Muncie. I&M will rebuild the 1-mile underground power line. Contract crews plan to work along Tillotson Avenue between University Avenue and York Prairie Creek, just south of Euclid Avenue. I&M right-of-way representatives will work with affected landowners and residents where the line rebuilding requires private property easements. Typical work hours are 7 a.m….

Local employers and other key stakeholders gather for presentation by Todd Hurst of the Indiana Chamber. Photo by Maggie Manor

Non-Profit February 29, 2024

Indiana Chamber’s Todd Hurst Connects State Initiative’s to Local ‘Cradle to Career’ Muncie Efforts

By Kelsey Harrington— MUNCIE, IN— Earlier this month, a group of area stakeholders from industry, higher education, K-12, and more gathered at the Innovation Connector to hear an update about the Indiana Chamber and its talent development initiatives. Todd Hurst, Executive Director of the state chamber’s Institute for Workforce Excellence, shared a glimpse into the Indiana Prosperity 2035 plan and its goals, connecting the state’s vision for economic acceleration to the local efforts of Cradle to Career Muncie. Cradle to…

Photo provided

Non-Profit February 28, 2024

Generous $2 Million Gift From Dan and Cassidy Towriss Fuels YMCA of Muncie’s Capital Campaign

By Kristen McConnell— MUNCIE, IN—-The YMCA of Muncie is thrilled to announce a transformative $2 million gift from philanthropists Dan and Cassidy Towriss. This generous contribution will play a pivotal role in the development of the new YMCA facility on the campus of Muncie Central High School. The Towriss’ commitment to the community shines through this substantial contribution, highlighting their dedication to fostering wellness, community engagement, and educational opportunities. The funds will directly support the construction and enhancement of the…

Muncie residents are invited to a public forum about creative spaces in our Community Tuesday, March 12, at 5:30 at Muncie Civic Theatre. Hosted by Artspace and The Community Foundation. Photo by story blocks

Non-Profit February 28, 2024

Arts and Culture Matter Public Forum to be Held March 12th at Muncie Civic Theater

By Kallie Sulanke— MUNCIE, IND. – Muncie residents are invited to learn about creative spaces in our community during a public forum on Tuesday, March 12. National consultant Artspace will share examples of creative space projects and arts assets to spur ideas and facilitate conversations about what the public would like to see in Muncie. The public is invited to be a part of the conversation from 5:30 to 7:30 on March 12 at Muncie Civic Theater. The Community Foundation…

Cornerstone Center for the Arts is located at 520 E. Washington Street in Muncie. Photo by Mike Rhodes

Entertainment February 27, 2024

Green Glam Studio Jewelry Featured at Cornerstone’s March First Thursday

By Debra Gindhart Dragoo— MUNCIE, IN—The March jewelry collection at the Green Glam Studio at Cornerstone Center of the Arts will focus on Celtic and Saint Patrick. The Green Collection features symbols associated with shamrocks and Celtic motifs. Earrings and pendants inspired by Celtic and Saint Patrick incorporate these symbols into their designs, offering wearers a way to celebrate their Irish heritage or their admiration for the saint. Pieces can range from simple to intricate, and they are repurposed and…