Muncie Matters

07/30/2026

Ivy Tech Community College Muncie Hosts Empowering All-Girls STEM Camp

Free annual program engages East Central Indiana middle and high school students through hands-on learning, local business partnerships, and career exploration.

MUNCIE, Ind. — Ivy Tech Community College recently hosted 28 area middle and high school students at the John and Janice Fisher Building for its annual STEM Camp. The free, five-day program provides local students with a dynamic, hands-on introduction to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), empowering young women across Delaware County to explore technical fields in an engaging, supportive, and collaborative environment.

“The reason I always come back is that everybody who comes to STEM Camp is always just so uplifting, always there for you, always willing to help, and the leaders are just absolutely amazing. It feels like everybody’s my friend all at once,” said Caylee Day, a fourth-year STEM Camper and senior at Yorktown High School. “I learn so many new things, how to do things I never knew before, and so much about myself.”

Now in its seventh year, the camp blends rigorous STEM concepts with creative expression and real-world applications.

"Every activity at STEM Camp is intentionally designed to help students see themselves as problem-solvers, innovators, and future leaders. We want every young woman to leave knowing that she belongs in any room where ideas are created and solutions are discovered,” Ren’a Wagner, Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships, said.

Guided by Ivy Tech faculty, staff, and dedicated community volunteers, this year’s participants took part in an expansive lineup of interactive workshops and team-building challenges:

Hands-On Engineering & Tech: Assembled working Bluetooth speakers and created wearable, light-reactive color-changing necklaces.

Problem-Solving & Math Application: Worked in teams to solve math-focused clues and navigate building-wide escape rooms spanning multiple floors of the Fisher Building.

Applied Science & Sustainability: Formulated personalized skincare products alongside Amanda Kishel of Tallow Skin Care and planted personal fairy gardens.

Arts, Design, & Personal Branding: Crafted custom 3D cardstock ladybugs, designed tie-dye apparel, glazed Ivy Tech ceramic tiles in partnership with Made in Muncie Pottery, and learned professional self-presentation during a personal branding session.

Financial & Functional Literacy: Completed practical budgeting exercises and created custom bookmarks with local pop-up shop Ink Drinkers Anonymous.

To foster leadership and camaraderie, campers earned tickets for positive behavior and teamwork, which they entered into drawings for games generously donated by Toys Forever Models & Hobbies—who also facilitated a group gaming session during Monday's lunch.

"STEM Camp is designed to show young women that science, technology, engineering, and math are not only accessible, but deeply creative and relevant to their everyday lives," said Dr. Qiana Clemens, Vice Chancellor for Academic and Resource Development. "By removing financial barriers and connecting students with inspirational leaders and local business owners, we are helping build the confidence they need to pursue future educational and career paths in STEM."

The success and accessibility of this year's camp were made possible through the generous support of community sponsors, including Thrive Credit Union, Northwest Bank, and Classroom Connections. Special thanks also go to Ink Drinkers Anonymous for donating a book to every participant, Toys Forever Models & Hobbies for donating door prizes, and the many local business partners and volunteers who contributed their time and expertise.

Ivy Tech Muncie offers four convenient class sites, so you can study in a way that works for you. Enroll today!

07/27/2026

National blood crisis NOW: Immediate need for blood donations

Red Cross issues rare crisis call for donors as summer blood shortage intensifies

Patient care threatened as critical blood type levels continue to fall

[INDIANA, July 27, 2026] — For only the second time in history, the American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis — and patients may already be feeling the impact. Donors are asked to act immediately to help save lives.

Blood donations have fallen to a four-year summer low, worsening this season's emergency blood shortage. All
blood types are needed, but the situation is especially dire for type O blood as the Red Cross is now limiting distributions of these blood products to hospitals. The supply of type O positive blood has now dropped below a one-day supply.

Help end this crisis and stabilize the blood supply. Book an appointment to give blood now by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). As a thank-you, all who give by July 31 will receive a Fandango Movie Ticket by email (up to a $15 ticket price and fees). See RedCrossBlood.org/July.

Additionally, those who come to give Aug. 1-31, 2026, will receive a $20 Amazon Gift Card by email. For details,
visit RedCrossBlood.org/August. Patients can't wait.

Despite thousands of people stepping up to help end the emergency blood shortage since it was declared earlier this month, donations are still not keeping pace with hospital demand, and the situation has worsened. Extreme heat, poor air quality and widespread foodborne illnesses continue to contribute to lower donor turnout this summer.

"This summer has brought several unique challenges that have placed additional strain on our blood supply, creating growing concerns for hospitals and the patients who rely on lifesaving transfusions," said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president of donor services for the Red Cross. "If just three more donors gave at each blood drive this summer, we could help the blood supply rebound and ensure hospitals have the blood products they need throughout the remainder of the season."

Delaware / Muncie

7/28/2026: 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Delaware County Fairgrounds, 1210 N. Wheeling Ave.

8/5/2026: 2 p.m. - 6 p.m., American Red Cross - Muncie, 1200 S Tillotson Overpass, Suite 5

8/12/2026: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., YMCA of Muncie, 615 N Walnut St.

https://www.redcross.org/

Every 8 minutes the American Red Cross responds to an emergency. Support the Red Cross. Join us today by making a donation.

07/22/2026

Motorcyclists from Across the Nation to Gather in Indiana for the
2nd Annual Revival

MORGANTOWN, Ind. — Riders from across the nation will gather on Saturday, August 15, 2026, for the 2nd Annual Revival Ride, a day dedicated to faith, fellowship, and community impact while raising awareness and support for The 5:14 Movement, a recovery-focused outreach ministry helping individuals break free from addiction and rebuild their lives through the transforming power of Jesus Christ.

Hosted by This Is That Church in partnership with The 5:14 Movement, the event begins with the Blessing of the Bikes at 9:45 a.m., followed by Kickstands Up at 10:00 a.m. Riders will travel an approximately 80-mile scenic route through Southern Indiana with stops at Twisted Torch Harley-Davidson and the historic Story Inn, concluding at approximately 2:45 p.m. at Bill Monroe Music Park & Campground.

But while the ride concludes, the Revival Rally is just beginning.
Organizers are inviting anyone whose life has been touched by addiction to arrive at Bill Monroe Music Park & Campground by 2:30 p.m. to welcome the riders back while wearing a purple shirt—the nationally recognized color for recovery awareness. Whether you've personally battled addiction, supported a family member or friend on their recovery journey, lost someone you love, or simply believe in the power of hope, your presence sends a powerful message that no one has to fight alone.

As the motorcycles roll into Bill Monroe Music Park, a sea of purple will serve as a visible reminder that recovery is possible, hope is real, and no one has to fight alone. Organizers hope this powerful moment of unity will encourage every individual and family affected by addiction and demonstrate that an entire community stands beside them in support of recovery.

Following the riders' arrival, the Revival Rally will feature live music, food vendors, local businesses and nonprofit organizations, a silent auction, giveaways, family-friendly activities, and powerful testimonies of lives transformed through Jesus Christ. The rally will also connect attendees with recovery resources available throughout the region while celebrating the hope and healing that are possible through faith, community, and recovery.

The 5:14 Movement is a recovery-focused outreach ministry dedicated to helping individuals break free from addiction and rebuild their lives through the transforming power of Jesus Christ. At the heart of the ministry is a team of men and women—many of whom have personally overcome addiction—who now return to the streets, shelters, and communities they once called home to help others find lasting hope.

Each week, the team hosts recovery meetings & serves those experiencing homelessness, addiction, and hardship by providing hot meals, clothing, hygiene supplies, transportation assistance, Bibles, and other essential resources. More importantly, they build meaningful relationships, offer encouragement, and connect individuals with Christ-centered recovery meetings and ongoing support.

The 5:14 Movement is more than an outreach—it is a ministry of restoration, led by people whose lives have been transformed and who are now committed to helping others discover the same freedom, healing, and purpose found in Jesus Christ.

"Addiction has touched nearly every family in one way or another," said Randy LaVere, founder of the Revival Ride. "Our goal is to remind people that recovery is possible, hope is
real, and no one has to fight alone. We're all in this together.

The Revival Ride is more than a motorcycle event—it's an opportunity for people from all walks of life to unite behind a cause that is changing lives and bringing hope to our communities through the love of Jesus Christ."

Building on the success of last year's event, the 2026 Revival Ride is expected to welcome riders from across the United States, making it one of the Midwest's premier faith-based motorcycle events.

Riders of every background, club affiliation, and experience level are invited to participate. Whether riding a Harley- Davidson, Indian, Honda, Yamaha, BMW, Can-Am Spyder, or any other street-legal motorcycle, all are welcome.

Event Information
Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026
Starting Location:
This Is That Church
Morgantown, Indiana
Schedule
9:45 a.m. – Blessing of the Bikes
10:00 a.m. – Kickstands Up
2:30 p.m. – Community Welcome at Bill Monroe Music Park & Campground (Wear Purple for Recovery Awareness)
Approximately 2:45 p.m. – Riders arrive and the Revival Rally begins

Ride Highlights
Approximately 80-mile scenic ride through Southern Indiana
Stops at Twisted Torch Harley-Davidson and the historic Story Inn Community welcome for riders; wear purple to show support for recovery:

Live music
Food vendors
Local businesses and nonprofit organizations
Recovery resources
Silent auction
Giveaways and door prizes
Family-friendly activities
Inspiring testimonies

Community members are encouraged to attend the Revival Rally even if they are not participating in the ride. Organizers hope the community welcome will become one of the event's defining traditions, demonstrating that those battling addiction are not alone and that an entire community stands beside them in support of recovery.

Businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities or vendor space are still invited to participate. For rider registration, sponsorship information, volunteer opportunities, or additional event details, visit

Jesus Loves You!

07/21/2026

3Rivers Awards $90,000 in Scholarships to 50 Student Members

3Rivers Credit Union has awarded $90,000 in scholarships to 50 student members through its 2026 Scholarship Contest, helping support educational goals ranging from undergraduate and graduate degrees to trade certifications, cosmetology school, and continuing education programs.

Scholarship recipients are located throughout Northeast, Central, and East Central Indiana, as well as a recipient in Payne, Ohio.

The art below was created by two of the winners:

07/21/2026

Indiana Family and Social Services Administration Launches Public 988 Indiana Crisis Dashboard

Indianapolis - The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) has launched a new public-facing 988 Indiana crisis dashboard that provides greater visibility into the state’s crisis system performance and service delivery. The dashboard features key metrics, including call volume, response times, and other indicators, to monitor the effectiveness of Indiana's crisis response system and support data-driven decision-making and accountability.

Since the transition to the three-digit 988 number in July 2022, Indiana has continued to build a comprehensive behavioral health crisis response system focused on ensuring Hoosiers can quickly access support, resources, and treatment when they need it most.

Dr. Gloria Sachdev, Secretary of Health and Family Services:
“Indiana continues making meaningful investments that improve the quality, accessibility and accountability of behavioral health services for Hoosiers. These enhancements strengthen our ability to respond to individuals in need, connect them to appropriate care and build a more transparent and effective crisis response system.”

Sarah Sailors, Director of Division of Mental Health and Addiction:
“Over the past four years, 988 has transformed how individuals access crisis services. Indiana continues to strengthen its behavioral health crisis system to ensure Hoosiers can access timely, compassionate support whenever and wherever they need it.”

Someone to Contact
Individuals who call, text, or chat 988 Indiana are routed to a trained crisis specialist prepared to assist anyone experiencing any form of emotional distress, suicidal thoughts, or other mental health or substance use crises.

To support continued high-quality service, FSSA recently awarded contracts to three Indiana-based 988 contact centers. Indiana remains a national leader, ranking among the top 10 states for in-state 988 answer rates since January 2025. These 988 Indiana contact center contracts expand in-state chat and text services from one to three locations, increasing capacity and strengthening local response for Hoosiers.

Key data from July 2025 through May 2026:
128,248 calls from Hoosiers were offered to 988 Indiana contact centers.
Indiana maintained a 97% in-state answer rate.

Someone to Respond
When needed, individuals who contact 988 can receive assistance from a team of trained behavioral health professionals who provide on-site support and connect them to appropriate services in their community. Mobile Crisis Teams always include a certified peer support professional, someone with lived experience who is trained to provide support during a behavioral health crisis, and another behavioral health professional.

As of January 2026, mobile crisis coverage is available statewide.

Key data from July 2025 through May 2026:
12,549 total mobile crisis dispatches occurred statewide, serving 10,413 unique individuals.

A Safe Place for Help
In some cases, individuals may need additional services and be referred to a local safe place for short-term support to stabilize and prepare for a return to their community.

Key data from July 2025 through May 2026:
20,556 visits were made to Crisis Receiving and Stabilization Services (CRSS) units, with 13,615 unique individuals served.

About the 988 Su***de and Crisis Lifeline:
If you or someone you know is currently experiencing any form of emotional distress, thoughts of su***de, or a mental health or substance use crisis, please call or text 9-8-8, or chat at 988Indiana.org, to reach the Su***de & Crisis Lifeline and speak with a trained crisis specialist 24/7.

988 Indiana promotional toolkit available at:

https://988indiana.org

If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of su***de or a mental health crisis, call 988 now. Trained crisis specialists available 24/7.

07/13/2026

The American Red Cross is facing an emergency blood shortage and needs donors to give now and take steps to protect patient care. A steep decline in blood donations since the end of May has created a growing gap between supply and patient need. Every donation is critical to rebuilding the nation's blood supply.

The most important way to help end the blood shortage is to book an appointment. We're asking donors of all blood types to make an appointment to give blood, platelets, or plasma as soon as possible.

As a thank-you, all who come to give July 13-31, 2026, will receive a Fandango Movie Ticket by email (up to a $15 ticket price and fees). Additional details can be found at https://RedCrossBlood.org/July

Additionally, we welcome you to download the following items to support your story as the blood shortage continues:

Photos
B-roll
PSA scripts
Social media assets

Get a Fandango Movie Ticket by email when you come to give blood, platelets or plasma July 13-31, 2026. See details.

07/03/2026

July 4th: Red Cross Offers Safety Tips for a Harmless Holiday

From fireworks to time spent at the pool, remember tips to stay safe

INDIANA, July 2, 2026 — The Fourth of July is around the corner, and many people may spend the day celebrating by the water or enjoying a fireworks display. The Red Cross is sharing tips to help celebrate safely.

Visit redcross.org/summersafety for more information.

FIREWORKS SAFETY The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports as many as 14,700 people were injured by fireworks in 2024, and burns were the most common injury. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public show put on by professionals. If you choose to set fireworks off at home, follow safety tips:

* Have a bucket of water, a garden hose, or a fire extinguisher handy. Consider wetting down the surrounding grass and other vegetation before lighting your fireworks.

* Douse the fireworks with water to make sure they are completely extinguished.

* Never give fireworks to small children, and never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures, or flammable materials.

* Always follow the instructions on the packaging.
Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.

* Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight "a dud."

Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.
Never use fireworks around pets and keep them indoors. Exposure to lit fireworks can potentially result in severe burns or trauma, and many pets are also fearful of loud noises and can become lost, scared, or disoriented.

WATER SAFETY Every day, an average of 11 people in the U.S. die from unintentional drowning, and one in five of those are children 14 or younger, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The Red Cross encourages individuals and families to know critical safety knowledge and skills that could save their lives in and around the water.

* Designate a “water watcher” to keep a close eye and constant attention on children and weaker swimmers in and around the water until the next water watcher takes over.

* Have young children and inexperienced swimmers wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket around water, but do not rely on life jackets alone.

* Teach children to always ask permission to go near water.
Don't dive in headfirst – protect your neck. Check the water depth and obstructions before diving, and go in feet-first the first time.

* If at a beach or water park, make sure lifeguards are on duty before you go in the water and follow all their instructions.

* Swimming in the ocean, a lake, or a river is different than swimming in a pool. Be sure you have the skills for these environments.

* Use waterproof sunscreen before leaving home, reapply during the day, and drink plenty of fluids.

HEAT SAFETY The American Red Cross recommends taking three steps in extreme heat – stay hydrated, stay cool and stay connected. Extreme heat can happen anywhere and be deadly for anyone.

* Stay hydrated by drinking a cup of water every 20 minutes, even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid sugary, caffeinated, and alcoholic drinks.

* Stay cool by spending time in air-conditioned places. If your home is too hot, go to a mall, library, or cooling center.

* Stay connected by checking on others and asking for help if you need it. Make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade.

* Watch for warning signs of heat illnesses, which can include heavy sweating, cramps, weakness, dizziness, fainting, nausea or vomiting.

* Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun's rays.

* Some people are at higher risk of getting sick because their bodies have a harder time staying cool. This includes older adults, children, pregnant women, people who take medication, and people with chronic conditions or disabilities.

DOWNLOAD OUR APPS. The free Red Cross Emergency app can help you and your loved ones stay safe with real-time alerts, open Red Cross shelter locations, and safety information.

The free Red Cross First Aid app provides instant access to information on handling the most common emergencies. Download these apps for free by searching for 'American Red Cross’ in your app store or visiting redcross.org/apps.

What’s your plan for this summer? Enjoying the water? Going camping? Firing up the grill? Whatever you prefer, we have safety steps to follow. And don’t forget your furry friends. There are steps you can take to help keep them safe too.

07/01/2026

Ivy Tech Muncie Looks to the Future with New Strategic Plan

Local campus will share community-focused goals this fall.

Muncie, IN – Ivy Tech Community College has launched its new statewide Strategic Plan, "The Future of College," a roadmap that will guide the College through 2030 while reaffirming its role as Indiana's community college and workforce engine.

The plan outlines a bold vision to redefine what a community college can achieve by strengthening academic quality, expanding career and transfer pathways, improving the student experience, and preparing students and communities for the future.

While the strategic plan establishes a statewide mission, vision, and core values, each of Ivy Tech's 19 campuses will develop localized goals and initiatives that reflect the unique needs of the communities they serve.

"We're excited about what this strategic plan means not only for Ivy Tech across Indiana, but for the future of our community," said Jeffrey D. Scott, Chancellor of Ivy Tech Community College Muncie. "This plan gives us a shared framework and direction while recognizing that every region has unique workforce needs and opportunities."

The statewide strategic plan focuses on four key priorities, which Ivy Tech Muncie is already actively delivering on through historic local milestones:

Academic and Instructional Quality: Driven by high-quality instruction, the Muncie campus achieved a 94% increase in student completions this past year across both its Advanced Manufacturing, Engineering, & Applied Science program and the IU Health Ball, Blackford & Jay Health Sciences. Over a five-year trajectory, total credential completions on campus have risen by 50%.

Career and Transfer Pathways: Aligned with the state's new Senate Enrolled Act 254 designation, which establishes Ivy Tech as the central driver of Indiana's talent pipeline, Ivy Tech Muncie saw enrollment gains in high-wage, high-demand sectors. Enrollment grew by 61% in Advanced Manufacturing and 69% in Health Sciences, ensuring local graduates are ready to step directly into critical regional vacancies.

Student-Centered Journey: The campus is celebrating record-setting performance across every major student sector, reaching a total unduplicated headcount of 6,471 students (a 10% increase). This includes 2,779 K-12 Dual Credit/Early College students (up 10.5%) and a steady 1.5% increase in Fall-to-Spring retention, proving that local barriers to higher education are being actively dismantled.

Innovation and Future Readiness: Preparing the local economy for the future, Ivy Tech Muncie saw a 62.3% single-year surge in workforce training participation (up 113% over five years). Furthermore, a recent study by Lightcast found that Ivy Tech Muncie generates more than $91.2 million in income for Delaware, Henry, and Jay counties annually, supporting 1,362 local jobs.

The campus also leads the state in efficiency and return on investment, delivering 18% annual ROI to taxpayers. By operating lean, strategically leveraging resources, and maximizing operational efficiency, the campus continues to deliver exceptional value while expanding opportunities for the entire region.

This fall, Ivy Tech Muncie will announce its own campus goals and initiatives that align with these priorities while addressing local workforce demands, economic opportunities, and student needs.

"As the needs of our region continue to evolve, so will we," Scott said. "Our campus has always been deeply connected to the communities we serve, and this planning process will ensure we're prepared to help students, employers, and our region succeed for years to come."

More information about Ivy Tech's statewide Strategic Plan, "The Future of College," is available at

Ivy Tech Community College's 2030 Strategic Plan provides a bold vision for the future of Indiana's community college. Building upon our commitment to student success, workforce development, and community impact, this plan establishes a framework that will guide the College through 2030 as we work t...

07/01/2026

Now, this looks like a great time!!

Who's ready to play kickball?!?!
Ages 16+

We are testing four community kickball nights to see if there's enough interest to build a larger summer league in 2027. This is classic kickball for adults ranging from high school to old school. This is meant to be competitive play. For 2026, we will have randomized teams based on who's there at 7:00p and will run 2 games simultaneously if needed. We promise there will be no trauma of being picked last.

This will be fair-weather dependent and we won't be playing on wet grass.

2026 YAK Dates:
• Wednesday, July 1 @ 7:00p
• Wednesday, July 8 @ 7:00p
• Wednesday, July 22 @ 7:00p
• Monday, July 27 @ 7:00p

Gym shoes, and a water bottle are all you need.
No season-long commitments. Come when you can make it.
Meet at the big pavilion in Morrow's Meadow.

Just kickball, community, and a little summer fun.

06/30/2026

2026 July 4 Performance Notice from America's Hometown Band of Muncie :

On Saturday, July 4th, 2026, from 8:00 to 9:00 pm.

America's Hometown Band of Muncie performs its patriotic LIVE musical program outdoors on the Minnetrista greensward stage.
This free, public event takes place at Minnetrista Museum & Gardens, 1200 North Minnetrista Pkwy, Muncie, IN.