Articles by Mike Rhodes

East Central Indiana’s Future Runs Through the White River

By Jud Fisher, President/CEO, Ball Brothers Foundation— MUNCIE, IN—The White River has long been a defining feature of East Central Indiana—its waters wind through our communities, shaping our history, and providing a foundation for future recreation and economic growth. Protecting and enhancing this natural resource is both a responsibility and an opportunity we take seriously at Ball Brothers Foundation. Our region is home to the headwaters of the White River, and the way we care for it has impact far…

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Ball State University Announces Spring 2025 Commencement Speaker

By Ball State Communications— MUNCIE, IN — Kayla Davion, a 2017 Ball State University graduate best known for her work on the Broadway stage, will address Ball State’s Class of 2025 at the University’s Spring Commencement ceremony. Ball State will confer approximately 2,800 doctoral, specialist, master’s, and baccalaureate degrees during the University-wide gathering. The event will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 3, in the Quad, followed by individual college celebrations throughout the day at Worthen Arena and Emens Auditorium….


Whitely Community Council Announces $4.5 Million Capital Campaign

Goal to build a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant future for Whitely Neighborhood By Ken Hudson— MUNCIE, IN—For nearly 60 years, the Whitely Community Council has served the Whitely neighborhood and the east side of Muncie, giving neighbors a voice and making the neighborhood a vibrant place to live, work, and learn. A historically African American neighborhood in Muncie, Indiana, Whitely Community Council serves over 2,900 residents. In response to the community’s growing need for better access to educational opportunities,…


Muncie Three Trails Music Series Announces Its 2025 Lineup of FREE Concerts at Canan Commons

By Rick Zeigler— MUNCIE, IN—The Muncie Three Trails Music Series is pleased to officially announce its 2025 lineup. This will be the 12thseason in which the series presents critically acclaimed national recording artists in completely free concerts (no tickets needed). And in 2025, for the first time, there will be seven such concerts, four at Canan Commons in downtown Muncie and three at the Brown Family Amphitheater at Ball State University. All shows begin at 7 PM and are All…


Ball State’s NAfME Chapter Named Collegiate Chapter of the Year

By Ball State University Communications— MUNCIE, IN—The Ball State University chapter of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) was recently named the 2023–2024 Collegiate Chapter of the Year by the Indiana Music Education Association (IMEA). The prestigious honor recognizes the chapter’s outstanding efforts in membership, service, advocacy, and professional development during the 2023–2024 academic year. Although the award was presented in early 2025, it is based on chapter activities completed during the previous academic year. Chapters are selected through…


Ball State University Study Explores Effects of Tax Caps and State Funding Shifts on School Spending

By Ball State Communications— MUNCIE, IN — A new study from Ball State University’s Center for Business and Economic Research (CBER) finds that significant changes in Indiana’s school funding policies—including property tax caps, operating referenda, and revisions to the state funding formula—have led to shifts in how school districts across the state spend money, particularly on instruction, administration, and staffing levels. The research, summarized in a new policy brief titled School District Responses to Property Tax Caps, Referenda, and State…


Local Cub Scout Learns Life Lessons, Builds Family Bonds Through Scouting

By Amanda Holmquist— MUNCIE, IN – Eight-year-old Lincoln G., a second grader and a member of Pack 303 in the White River District, is discovering a world of adventure through Cub Scouts. Whether he’s learning new skills, exploring the outdoors, or simply having fun with friends, Lincoln is embracing the many opportunities Scouting has to offer. When asked about his favorite part of Cub Scouts, Lincoln’s enthusiasm is clear. “Playing with my friends, fitness, and learning the yo-yo,” he says….


Explore Opportunities in Business and Accounting Through a Free Summer Experience for High Schoolers

By Dr. Ben Angelo— MUNCIE, IN—Are you a high-school student who is ready to jumpstart your future in business? Imagine diving headfirst into the world of accounting and finance. We invite you to apply for the Accelerated Career Awareness Program (ACAP) at Ball State University, in collaboration with NABA, Inc. ACAP is a one-week, all-expenses-paid summer program for high school students who are curious about careers in accounting, business, finance, and entrepreneurship. ACAP turns learning into an adventure. This residential…


Muncie-Henry County Campus to Celebrate Community Impact on Ivy Tech Day, April 8

Hoosiers will support Muncie-Henry County students in a 24-hour giving event By Lesley DeVoss— MUNCIE, IN—For the more than 5,380 students attending Ivy Tech Muncie-Henry County, one day can make a difference. On April 8, join Ivy Tech Community College’s 19 campuses across Indiana in celebrating Ivy Tech Day, a 24-hour fundraising event dedicated to student success, scholarships, and transformative programs. Community members, alumni, faculty, staff, and donors are encouraged to participate and support the students shaping Delaware and Henry…


Auditions Open for 2025 DWNTWN IDOL Competition

By Dawn Brand Fluhler— MUNCIE, IN— The search for the 2025 DWNTWN IDOL is now on, leading to a thrilling finale at ArtsWalk on October 2. Contestants will compete for a $500 cash prize, a trophy, and future community performance opportunities. Hosted by Muncie Downtown Development Partnership (MDDP), DWNTWN IDOL features two open-mic audition rounds. All auditions are karaoke-style vocals only, with no live instrumental accompaniment. Contestants must record their performance and have their music pre-loaded on a phone or…