Muncie Magazine June 2024

(317) 796-0912

SEVEN DECADES STRONG

REBER MACHINE AND TOOL COMPANY IS STILL A SUCCESS AFTER 72 YEARS

Reber Machine and Tool Company all started as the brainchild of successful pharmacist Donald H. Reber. With a proclivity for machine tools, he began dabbling with them in his bedroom on East Main Street in Muncie in 1942. He moved the growing operation into the family basement and later the garage, before buying a property on South Liberty Street in 1952. The business is still housed there 72 years later.

“Granddad’s hobby turned into a lucrative tool business,” said Terry Reber, vice president.

A third-generation business shipping its products all over the world, Reber Machine and Tool has long been a mainstay in the Muncie community, creating tools for customers within a 100-mile radius.

What’s the secret to this company’s success?

They’ve kept it in the family. Donald H.’s three boys, Donald E., Jack and Dave, all cultivated lifelong careers at the shop.

Today the core team is comprised of Donald E.’s sons, Neil and Terry Reber, serving as president and vice president respectively, along with Plant Manager Eric Dishman, whose father, Rick, worked in the same capacity for decades before his death. He started at the shop as a teenager, with Eric following suit years later.

Doug Reber, Jack’s eldest son, rounds out the team as project manager.

“I remember hearing stories of dad standing on a milk crate at the age of 12 to run the lathe,” said Neil, whose grandfather had purchased a lathe, developed an adaptor, and sold it back to the manufacturer so he could afford to buy his own.

Writer / Alyson Madsen Photographer / Dylan Senkus

In the early days of operation, Reber Machine and Tool made parts for shops immersed in the war effort. Since then, customers have included City Machine, Ball Brothers and Westinghouse.

“There was more demand than supply,” said Neil, who recalls labor being less than $1 per hour.

“We’re a manufacturer of made-to-order parts,” said Terry. “If they can dream it up, we can make it.”

Reber Machine and Tool redesigns parts for practicality and cost savings, with strengths in computer numerical control machining, as well as compression and injection molds. Creating industry products such as bottle caps and baking equipment, the shop has serviced Muncie entities such as Ball State and Muncie Community Schools. Some of their designs have helped launch a NASA space shuttle and the Hubble Space Telescope.

“Dad just told us not to work on automotive brakes or airplanes,” said Neil. “The last thing we wanted was a lawsuit!”

“If problems arise, we figure it out,” said Neil, who realizes his long-standing business is often held to a higher standard than most. A low employee turnover rate testifies to the leaders’ respect for their workforce.

“We’re not a hire/fire place,” said Terry, who added that his dad had trouble letting people go.

“Everyone here is treated like family,” added Eric.

At ages 71 and 68, brothers Neil and Terry realize they will eventually pass the torch to Eric, whose dedication to the business is obvious. Like his dad, he has become an integral part of the family.

“Eric will step in and develop his own team when the time comes,” said Neil.

Whenever that happens, one thing is certain - Reber Machine and Tool will

continue to offer a quality product at a competitive price.

Reber Machine and Tool Company is

located at 1112 South Liberty Street in Muncie. Contact them at 765-288-0297 or at rebermachine@rebermachine.com. Visit rebermachine.com for more info.

CELEBRATING JUNETEENTH

ENGAGE, EDUCATE, EMPOWER

Writer / Jennifer Criss

Photography Provided

Juneteenth Muncie, a celebration of freedom and unity, holds a special place in the hearts of many. Juneteenth celebrates June 19, 1865, the day that enslaved African Americans of Texas, the westernmost Confederate state, got news from the Union Army that freedom had come - more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation.

This year’s fifth annual Juneteenth event, on June 15, promises to be nothing short of extraordinary. With its core values to engage, educate and empower, Juneteenth Muncie exemplifies inclusivity and community spirit.

For five years running, a dedicated group of 11 volunteers, led by the unrelenting spirit of Anitra Davis and her co-chair, Dorica YoungWatson, has orchestrated this grand celebration with a dedication to accessibility. Everyone in the community is welcomed with open arms. From free food and drinks to lots of fun activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The event buzzes with excitement and energy, from cornhole to kickball tournaments and inflatables to wrestling matches. Live music, talent showcases, and even free food and treats like snow cones and popcorn add to the festivities.

But Juneteenth is more than just a day of fun and games. It’s an opportunity to honor history, engage with the past and educate ourselves. Through a captivating history walk and exhibits highlighting local and national struggles for freedom, organizers

encourage attendees to reflect on the day’s significance. Juneteenth is about recognizing the shared history that binds us all. In that spirit, there will also be several community tables set up with local businesses and nonprofits to provide educational information and resources to residents.

“We need to come together,” said Young-Watson. “I want people to know the truth and deliver it in a way that respects those hearing it. My vision is not only to take up space, but to create it for other people. That’s why this is important, because if we don’t understand how something done in the past impacts someone today, then we can’t move the needle. I want us to all be in a place where we are happy, we’re healthy, we’re vibrant, and we’re the best versions of ourselves. Unfortunately, because of different levels of racism, there’s a lot of residue left over from predation for many years. So when I started thinking about those biases and those stereotypes, I realized we’ve got to be intentional about changing. That’s why I’m here and why I do what I do.”

For Young-Watson, the driving force behind this event, Juneteenth holds personal significance that extends beyond the event itself. Through initiatives like Representation Matters, the organizers aim to inspire the next generation to dream big and pursue their goals. By providing young people with opportunities to envision their futures and connect with professionals in various fields, they are laying the groundwork for a brighter tomorrow.

As preparations for this year’s Juneteenth continue, the committee remains steadfast in its mission. With the support of the community, and partnerships with organizations like the Indiana Black Expo Muncie chapter, Shafer Leadership Academy, Anthem, PrimeTrust, the Youth Opportunity Center, and many others, they continue to work hard to bring this labor of love to the Muncie community. It gets bigger and bigger each year, fueled by a shared vision of honoring history and promoting unity and progress.

The fifth annual Juneteenth event will take place on June 15 from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. at McCulloch Park, rain or shine. To learn more, visit juneteenthmuncie.com or email june19muncie@gmail.com. The event is free and open to all.

IVY TECH’S PATHWAY TO PROSPERITY AND EXCELLENCE

A RESTORATIVE APPROACH TO SECONDARY-EDUCATION SUCCESS

Writer / Lesley DeVoss

Photography Provided

When high school students are suspended or expelled from school, they are often placed in alternative pathways, which increases the chances of academic challenges, and adds a layer of stress for the students as well as their families. The Pathway to Prosperity and Excellence Program is designed to provide academic and career support for students that might be considered at-risk. This collaboration can provide relief from that stress, as well as a guided pathway to opportunities.

“Every student deserves a place where they can continue to focus on their education, identify and grow their strengths, and work toward a brighter future,” said Ivy Tech Muncie-Henry County Chancellor Jeffrey D. Scott. “The Pathway to Prosperity and Excellence Program provides this for students who can no longer attend school in a more traditional environment. Ivy Tech Muncie-

Henry County is proud to be able to provide these students with the support they need to achieve success, and position them for prosperity and excellence.”

The Pathway to Prosperity and Excellence Program is housed at the Ivy Tech Muncie Cowan Road Advanced Technology Center, where students will have access to Ivy Tech tutoring. Through the program, students can successfully earn their high school diploma, as well as industry-recognized credentials and certifications. In addition to support in their virtual classes, students will complete the Ivy Tech Career Assessment Tool and work with a career coach to determine the best pathway to a career after graduation.

Depending on the results of the Career Assessment Tool, the students will be enrolled in Ivy Tech academic courses or skills training, which includes potential certification offerings like OSHA 10, Six Sigma White Belt, CPR-First Aid, Question-Persuade-Refer

“WITH THIS PROGRAM AVAILABLE THROUGH IVY TECH, MUNCIE COMMUNITY SCHOOLS STUDENTS HAVE YET ANOTHER OPPORTUNITY TO GRADUATE WITH THEIR PEERS AND SET THEMSELVES UP FOR SUCCESS

AFTER

HIGH SCHOOL.”

–Lee Ann Kwiatkowski, Muncie Community Schools

Director of Public Education and CEO

Mental Health First Aid, Forklift, Smart Automated Controls, Certified Production Technician, Welding, Qualified Medication Aide, and Certified Clinical Medical Assistant. For added support, Ivy Tech will also provide wraparound services to all participants of the Pathway to Prosperity and Excellence Program, including mental health services, collegiate recovery addiction services, food pantry, emergency assistance, and professional clothing closet.

STUDENTS IN THE PROGRAM WILL HAVE ACCESS TO AND BE INVOLVED IN THE FOLLOWING IVY TECH OFFERINGS:

IVY CAREER STRONG: This is a career assessment platform that conducts an interest assessment to find educational and career pathways. For each pathway, Ivy Tech links interests to careers, salaries, job outlooks, skills, and Ivy Tech programs.

COLLEGE READINESS (IVY-T): This specialized IVY-T course provides students with an overview of skills and strategies necessary to successfully focus on reaching their educational, career and life goals.

CLIFTONSTRENGTHS FOR STUDENTS: This assessment gives students the resources, techniques and inspiration they need to thrive in college and beyond. From deciding how to get involved on campus to determining their career path, students can use CliftonStrengths for Students to start their strengths journey.

RESUME WORKSHOP: Career coaches will work with students to build their resumes.

INTERVIEW WORKSHOP: Career Coaches will conduct mock interviews and provide interviewing tips.

CAREER DEVELOPMENT PORTFOLIO: A toolkit that helps students become career ready.

WRAPAROUND SERVICES: With the student advocacy team, students have access to mental health awareness, coordination with an AWARE team member, and engagement with collegiate recovery/substance use staff.

The pilot will be focused on students from Muncie Central High School.

“Not every student will succeed in a traditional classroom setting, so it is important to have several different options available,” said Muncie Community Schools Director of Public Education and CEO Dr. Lee Ann Kwiatkowski. “With this program available through Ivy Tech, Muncie Community Schools students have yet another opportunity to graduate with their peers and set themselves up for success after high school.”

The students in the Pathway to Prosperity and Excellence Program will have the opportunity to participate in work-based learning opportunities to further step toward a prosperous future. Success will be measured on their attendance record, the credentials they complete, and how many hours of tutoring they attend.

To learn more about the Pathway to Prosperity and Excellence Program, visit online at ivytech.edu/muncie or email askmuncie@ ivytech.edu.

MUNCIE MATERIAL

FRANK SCOTT IS A PILLAR OF COMMUNITY SERVICE IN WHITELY AND BEYOND

Writer / Jennifer Criss

/ Dylan Senkus

Frank Scott, a lifelong resident of Muncie, is a stalwart figure in Muncie’s Whitely neighborhood and the president of their community council. Recently he was honored with the Spirit of Muncie Award for his outstanding community service.

Established in 2002 in honor of Al Rent and his support and volunteerism with the Greater Muncie Chamber of Commerce, the award honors those who seek to be role models, respected leaders and valued community volunteers with forward-thinking, positive outlooks. Scott is all of those things and more.

“This was my seventh year serving on the chamber,” Scott said. “When they told me I was nominated, I was floored. I told them I hoped that by the time I got [to the ceremony], I’d be able to shut my mouth.”

In 2010, after working at BorgWarner for 28 years, it closed, leaving him with few job options. He enrolled at Ivy Tech, where he studied human services, which changed his outlook. He began thinking more about how he could serve his community.

“I saw a need - families that were struggling,” Scott said. “I wanted to see if I could make a difference.”

Having also worked as a bail bondsman for 20 years, he said he wondered, “Instead of getting people out of jail, how about getting ahead of it and try to do

something to keep people from having that experience?”

His involvement in various committees and boards, including the Greater Muncie Chamber of Commerce, National Alliance on Mental Illness, and Muncie Cradle to Career, has

Photographer

“MUNCIE, LIKE ANY OTHER CITY, HAS ITS ISSUES, AND IT’S EASY TO FIND THE FAULTS AND CRITICIZE, BUT IT’S BETTER TO CONNECT WITH PEOPLE WHO WILL WORK TOGETHER TO IMPROVE THINGS. THERE IS SO MUCH MORE TO OUR CITY THAT I WISH PEOPLE WOULD EXPLORE AND DISCOVER. IT’LL CHANGE YOUR CONCEPT OF WHERE WE ARE AND WHO WE ARE AS A CITY.”

— FRANK SCOTT

allowed him to witness the impact of community engagement firsthand. Through initiatives like the Whitely Food Pantry, Scott and his fellow community members have demonstrated their commitment to supporting those in need.

Scott also volunteers at Longfellow Elementary and recently started a chess club for children in the neighborhood at Motivate Our Minds. Beyond teaching them the intricacies of the game, Scott uses the club as a platform to impart valuable life lessons, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking, decision making and emotional control.

Scott’s impact resonates deeply within the Whitely neighborhood and provides hope for the broader Muncie community - but he hesitates to take any credit.

“I’m only able to do all of these things because of the people I’ve been fortunate enough to connect with,” Scott said. “As a man of faith, all this is so much bigger than me.”

Scott is excited about things to come. The Whitely Neighborhood Association embarked on a redevelopment project for the property on Centennial Avenue to benefit current and future residents of the community. The envisioned redevelopment includes a community health clinic, food pantry, business incubator space, gathering spaces, educational programs for adults and youths, and support for locally owned businesses.

He sees his involvement in community service not as a personal achievement, but rather as a collective effort fueled by the passion and commitment of everyone involved. As he continues to advocate for positive change and uplift those around him, he exemplifies the transformative power of service and compassion - and he sees Muncie’s potential.

Scott attributes his strength and resilience to his faith, guiding him in every aspect of his life, including his commitment to serving others. His dedication to his family, his wife of 45 years, Sheila, and his deep desire to give back, set the stage for his remarkable contributions to the Whitely neighborhood and beyond.

“Muncie, like any other city, has its issues, and it’s easy to find the faults and criticize, but it’s better to connect with people who will work together to improve things,” he said. “There is so much more to our city that I wish people would explore and discover. It’ll change your concept of where we are and who we are as a city.”

Join us for a round of golf that does more than test your skills—it supports the fight against food and resource insecurity. The Course for Community golf outing is about coming together to make a real difference. Funds raised at the Course for Community golf outing will help Second Harvest continue to make an impact around East Central Indiana and also support Whitely’s construction and renovation of the Resource Hub. Whitley’s new building will directly aid in providing much-needed food from Second Harvest in Whitely and essential services such as health care, educational programs, and more. Register now and help us make a substantial impact, one swing at a time.

Join us for a round of golf that does more than test your skills—it supports the fight against food and resource insecurity. The Course for Community golf outing is about coming together to make a real difference. Funds raised at the Course for Community golf outing will help Second Harvest continue to make an impact around East Central Indiana and also support Whitely’s construction and renovation of the Resource Hub. Whitley’s new building will directly aid in providing much-needed food from Second Harvest in Whitely and essential services such as health care, educational programs, and more. Register now and help us make a substantial impact, one swing at a time.

Friday, June 28, 2024

Hickory Hills Golf Course

2 Flights Available 8am & 2pm Shotgun Start

$300 per Team

$350 per Team after May 24

$350 per Team after May 24

Food, Soft Drinks & Water Provided • Lunch Served at 12pm Longest Drive, Hole-in-One Challenge, 50/50, and Many Other Chances to Win

Register and learn more about the cause at Longest Drive, Hole-in-One Challenge, 50/50, and Many Other Chances to Win

Register and learn more about the cause at curehunger.org/golf

INVESTING IN MUNCIE, ONE DRAIN AT A TIME

GET THINGS FLOWING AGAIN WITH GREGORY’S SEWER AND DRAIN CLEANING

Ivan Gregory’s mechanical inclinations and experience as a journeyman plumber boosted the confidence to start his own business, Gregory’s Sewer and Drain Cleaning, in 1998.

Being in the industry over 25 years has produced countless satisfied customers, and he’s always seeking new clients.

Servicing Muncie, Delaware County and surrounding areas, Gregory’s specializes in sewer and drain cleaning, including kitchen sinks, toilets, faucets, garbage disposals and sump pumps. Licensed and insured, three full-time employees (Gregory among them) round out the team.

Born and raised in Muncie, Gregory has dabbled in some interesting sidelines. He has served as Prairie Creek Park superintendent for six and a half years, as a member of Cowan

Volunteer Fire department for 10 years, and as a trustee of Monroe Township for four years.

Priding himself on owning a mom-and-pop business, Gregory thrives on interacting with his clients. Being a part of a familyowned and -operated business allows him to provide quality services and pricing, unlike many big-box companies who rely on commissions.

Gregory’s promotes leak and water conservation safeguards. Checking one’s toilet tank at least twice a year, along with turning water off when brushing teeth, shaving, or washing the car, can mean savings. Likewise, watering the lawn (an inch per week) in the early morning, taking shorter baths and showers, and running only full loads of dishes and clothes can ensure savings and longevity.

Writer / Alyson Madsen Photography Provided

Another apt example is a home water heater, which can be expensive to replace. According to Gregory, warning signs of a faulty water heater can include:

• Exceeding the average lifespan of eight to 10 years

• Appearance of rust or sediment in the water

• A longer heat-up time

• High-pitched whining, or low-rumbling or popping noises

• The smell of burning or gas

Gregory said that “a few minutes today can save time and money tomorrow.”

“I hope to grow Gregory’s to maximum capacity,” adds Gregory, who loves the people in Muncie and the “hometown feel of our close-knit community.”

Future plans beginning this year include expanding into a 60-by100-foot building in Delaware County on 2020 West 26th Street.

“It will serve as our home office and allow us to add more employees,” he said.

Additional equipment and services will include a pumper truck and for-rent portable toilets.

“Our goal is to create more jobs in the area and continue to invest in the Muncie community,” Gregory said.

Regardless the size of the job, the team at Gregory’s prides itself on expert and speedy service.

Gregory’s Sewer and Drain Cleaning can be reached 24/7, 365 days per year at 765-808-1059.

SOLUTIONS

JUNE CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ACROSS

1. Opposite of rural

7. Daughter’s child

8. Common 10. Juveniles

Complete disorder

Rushed

Glass pots

DOWN

1. Dethrones

2. Not here

3. Wide smile

4. Grind (teeth) together

5. Bone specialist

6. Unexpended

9. Hotel foyer

11. Male family head

13. Large deer

15. Disobey (rules)

16. Mixture

18. Indecently

19. Inflexible

21. Deep wound

22. Den

17. Looking very undernourished 20. Significant

Brought under control

Most fortunate

Sense of the absurd

MUNCIE ENTREPRENEURSHIP PROGRAM RECEIVES 2024 RISE FEST AWARD

RISE is an entrepreneurship lab for high school students and community colleges, where best practices are tested and applied. RISE also creates tools, resources, and training.

Dr. Tracey Danner-Odenwelder is the recipient of the RISE Fest 2024 Best Community College Facilitator award for her work with the Muncie Entrepreneurship program.

Story & Photography Provided

“We started our entrepreneur program last spring and are currently in our second cohort,” Iris Hammel, RISE Executive Director says. “Next week, we will have graduates for the first time in the Entrepreneur Certificate program. The RISE prize is given out to the top facilitators and programs in the state implementing RISE’s program. We feel the Muncie Entrepreneurship Program is hands down implementing the core tactics and meeting students where they

are to get the most lasting impact on their futures.”

Cayonna Lewis, a Muncie student graduating with the ENT certificate, accepted the award on DannerOdenwelder’s behalf.

“I’m extremely proud of her and grateful to have had such an amazing professor,” Lewis says. “I’m thankful to have learned and grown so much throughout the course

of each semester. Being in each of her classes has helped me expand and develop my business into what it is today.”

Danner-Odenwelder said she enjoys teaching our entrepreneurs and seeing students grow their businesses. She especially appreciates the team effort from Alisa Wells, Qiana Clemens, Rene’ Wagner, Jennifer Gasiorek, Danna Bishop, Jeremy Brown, Emery Peck, and Chancellor Jeffrey D. Scott.

“We took a thinking outside ‘of the box strategy and a team effort from all involved to ensure a top-quality program for our students. This award is a great honor. Our Muncie campus has received a $1,000 prize for this award.”

Chancellor Scott said, “We are so excited to watch these entrepreneurial students grow their businesses and envisioning them as trailblazers in our community’s narrative of small business success,” Chancellor Scott says. “Great job to the entire team who worked together to support our students and for launching our Entrepreneurship program!”

If you are interested in the Entrepreneurship

program, please contact askmuncie@ ivytech.edu.

About Ivy Tech Community College

Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana’s largest public postsecondary institution and the nation’s largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses

throughout Indiana and serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state’s engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns with the needs of the community. The College provides a seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor’s degree.

A LIFE OF SERVICE

Many people spend their careers on a single trajectory that ends in retirement. But not Chaz Smith. He’s traveled several career roads, and he shows no signs of stopping.

“The good Lord willing, I’ll be turning 70 this year,” Smith says. The biggest complaint he hears from fellow retired baby boomers is boredom.

When he turned 60, Smith made an early semi-retirement decision. After a career in sales, he wanted to try a different career path to stay active and relevant.

So, for five years, he worked mornings at the Muncie Mission. Then, Teresa, his wife, saw a posting for a courier position at a local pharmacy. In the afternoons, Smith began delivering medications for Genoa Healthcare throughout East Central Indiana.

“I love the work I do for two main reasons. First, I feel I’m genuinely making a difference for those I serve. The second reason is much more personal,” Smith says. “My mother experienced a breakdown after my older brother died shortly after birth. She received the care she needed, moved forward, and lived a productive life. l also lost a brother to suicide who did not receive the proper medication and treatment for his condition.”

Smith is quick to incorporate a message of serving those with mental illness into his profession as a courier for Genoa Healthcare.

Writer / Jerry Winans

Photography Provided

“There are 44 million people in America who suffer with mental illness. Anxiety and depression have taken a toll on many,” Smith says.

His superiors and co-workers noticed Smith’s hard work, dedication, and positive attitude. After his first year of service, Smith was given the G.E.M. award as the national driver of the year. The award included an all-expense-paid trip to Barcelona, Spain.

As he completes his 10th year of service, Smith has already set his sights on the next adventure.

“I read a book by Dale Carnegie titled ‘Five Minute Biographies’ that was written in 1937. The book motivated me to write stories of modern-day heroes, in two-minute reads,” Smith says. “A good friend, Bruce Munson, hosts a radio program on Monday mornings on Anderson’s WHBU radio (1240 AM/101.1 FM). I was invited to share those stories, followed by a complementary song.” The segment typically airs on Mondays at 8:20 am on WHBU radio.

“We trimmed them a bit and refer to them as ‘90 Second Stories.’ They’re all

inspirational!” Smith says.

Smith’s goal is to travel a career road of a relevant life with continuing purpose. He quotes the lyrics from “Don’t Let the Old Man In,” a song by the late Toby Keith.

Many moons I have lived

My body’s weathered and worn

Ask yourself how would you be If you didn’t know the day you were born Try to love on your wife And stay close to your friends Toast each sundown with wine Don’t let the old man in (Don’t Let The Old Man In lyrics © Tokeco Tunes )

SATURDAYS IN JUNE

MINNETRISTA

FARMERS MARKET

The Farmers Market is the perfect place to discover fresh produce, baked goods, plants, eggs, meats, and more! Connect with local vendors and experience what our community has to offer. The market is open from 9 a.m.12 p.m. Minnetrista Museum and Gardens. minnetrista.net.

June 1

LAVENDER GRADUATION

LGBTQ+ students are invited to celebrate graduating at this special event. The Lavender graduation is for all interested LGBTQ+ college, high school, home school, trade school and GED students. You do not have to be a Muncie OUTreach member to participate. 4-5 p.m., Minnetrista Museum and Gardens. minnetrista.net.

QUEER PROM

This prom is for those in middle and high school. OUTreach volunteers and staff will

supervise, parents are also welcome. We encourage people to come in prom attire, but less formal is welcome. All are welcome regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. This event is free and open to the public. Minnetrista Museum and Gardens. muncieoutreach@gmail.com.

JUNE 6

CAPTURING LIFE: A JOURNEY THROUGH MEMOIR WRITING

Have you ever wanted to write your memoir, but didn’t know where to start? Come join this class to get your memoir jump-started. Besides that, you will learn that you can write a memoir using poems, or a combination of both prose and poems. In this series of three class sessions, you can begin to piece together a manuscript that you can seek to publish for the masses, gift to your family, or just write for yourself. E.B. and Bertha Ball Center. bsu.edu/ ebball

BRINK OF SUMMER ARTSWALK

A special edition of First Thursday, Brink of Summer ArtsWalk, presented by The

JUNE

Community Foundation of Muncie & Delaware County and Nonprofit Support Network, celebrates the arts and culture in Muncie! Enjoy YART: A Yard Sale for Art at Canan Commons; watching local artists perform their craft; Flower Hour; live music and dance featuring Muncie Ballet Studio, Doc Peterson/Dave Helms and the Stable of Stars, America’s Hometown Band Jazz Quartet, and Harmony Players; multiple art galleries, and more. 5-8 p.m. downtownmuncie.org

JUNE 7

BEGINNING NEEDLEPOINT

If you are looking for a new or different hobby, consider needlepointing. Today’s needlepointing is not the same as it was during your grandmother’s time. In each class you can create a one-of-a-kind needlepointed piece by selecting your own thread colors. The stitch guide that accompanies his project allows you to even choose the stitches you want to use to complete the project. Class is for the beginner, intermediate, or advanced needle pointer. E.B and Bertha Ball Center. bsu.edu/ebball

JUNE

10, 17, 24

INTRO TO GRAFFITI

Develop your graffiti skills and create a custom mural project! Immerse yourself in a summer of creativity with professional artist Leon Crosby as you explore the foundations of graffiti expression, develop your own skills and style, and share in the creation of a public mural in the Madjax Design Lab. This six week class is open to both adults and families. All supplies will be provided. No prior skills or experience is necessary. Madjax Maker Force. madjax.org

JUNE 11-13

ADVENTURE BOOK

Create your own imaginative field guide documenting your family woodland adventure. Families are invited to join Ball State University professor Ann Hildner on an immersive exploration of the beauty in our Indiana Woodlands. During this 3-day series participants will practice photography, digital design, and bookbinding. Madjax Maker Force. madjax.org

JUNE 13 - 23

FUDDY MEERS

Muncie Civic Theatre presents “Fuddy Meers” for the final show of the 2023-2024 season in the Casazza Family Studio Theatre. A dark comedy that follows the journey of Claire, a woman with a rare form of amnesia that erases her memory each time she falls asleep. The play is filled with twists and turnsmand nobody is as they appear to be. Trusting the wrong person can lead to being locked in a basement with a foul-mouthed sock puppet, hit over a head with a frying pan, or kidnapped and dragged across the border. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7 p.m. and the Sunday matinees are at 3 p.m. Tickets. munciecivic.org

JUNE 14

PLANETARIUM SHOWS

Catch “Our Night Sky” and “Moons: Worlds of Mystery” on Friday nights in June at the Charles W. Brown Planetarium on the campus of Ball State University. Free. Show times vary. bsu.edu/planetarium

JUNE 15

5TH ANNUAL JUNETEENTH MUNCIE CELEBRATION

You are invited to join Juneteenth Muncie for the 5th Annual Celebration to acknowledge the past with consciousness to inspire the future, while focusing on opportunities to Engage, Educate, & Empower. The Juneteenth Muncie Celebration is an inclusive, fun FREE event for the entire family! 2-9 p.m. McCulloch Park. JuneteenthMuncie.com

PLANETARIUM SHOWS

The Charles W. Brown Planetarium is offering “One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure” and “Living Worlds” on Saturdays during June. Free. Show times vary. bsu/edu/ planetarium

FREE SATURDAY

Visit the Muncie Children’s Museum at no charge on the third Saturday of each month. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Muncie Children’s Museum munciemuseum.com

STAINED GLASS PINWHEEL

Learn the basics of stained glass as you make your own decorative pinwheel. Professional stained glass artist Erica Markley is providing hands-on introductory training of stainedglass artwork. Limited to ages 18+. All

JUNE

supplies will be provided. No prior skills or experience is necessary. 1-4 p.m. Madjax Maker Force. madjax.org

JUNE 16

FATHER’S DAY BRUNCH

Indulge in an exceptional buffet featuring elevated cuisine to satisfy your culinary cravings. Your ticket includes unlimited access to the buffet, inclusive of complimentary coffee, tea, and juices. Enhance your brunch experience by opting for a mimosa upgrade. Pre-register for convenience, walk-ins are welcome as space allows. 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. minnetrista.net

JUNE 17

SUPERSTORM 1950

In November 1950, the greatest storm of the twentieth century crippled the eastern United States, affecting more than 100 million people. Program is offered by the E.B. and Bertha C. Ball Center in association with Westminster Village. Open to the public. 2-3 p.m., Westminster Village. bsu.edu/ebball

JUNE 22

BE MY NEIGHBOR DAY

Get ready for another grr-ific Be My Neighbor Day! Join Ball State PBS and Daniel Tiger for an afternoon of free family fun. The event will also include more than 25 booths (neighbors) offering hands-on activities for the whole family. Based on the animated PBS KIDS show “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood,” and with a nod to “Mister Rogers Neighborhood,” this event focuses on the importance of being neighborly. 1-4 p.m. Canan Commons. ballstatepbs.org

JUNE 29

RECIPE BOXES

Stain and embellish your own custom recipe box. Join professional crafter Jennifer Amos for a fun and interactive afternoon staining, and decorating your own custom recipe boxes. T Recommended for ages 16+. All supplies will be provided. No prior skills or experience is necessary. 1-4 p.m. Madjax Maker Force. madjax.org

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