Muncie Magazine July 2023

MAGAZINE

JULY 2023

Can-Do Approach

Happy Cans Gets Commercial and Residential Trash Bins Thoroughly Clean TAKE IN THE TUNES

Summer Bash Indiana Returns in Muncie

VIVACIOUS VENUE

The Clubhouse Is for the People, for the City, and for Fun

TownePost.com

ALL ROADS LEAD TO GADDIS Come in and meet Matt Besser!

Matt has been a part of the Gaddis team for going on 11 years. Matt will make your next car shopping experience a treat.

With over a decade of experience at our location Matt is able to make the most of your time.

If you are looking for a place to be valued and appreciated while shopping for your next vehicle, Make your way to Gaddis and be sure to ask for Matt.

Come In Today And See Why It’s Different At Gaddis!

2023 RAM 1500, BIG HORN, CREW CAB 4X4, NIGHT EDITION MSRP $ 65,955

GADDIS

DIAMOND BLACK CRYSTAL PEARL 5.7 HEMI V8 12 INCH TOUCH SCREEN RADIO WITH NAVIGATION DUAL-PANE PANORAMIC SUNROOF PREMIUM LED LIGHTING GROUP TRAILER TOW PACKAGE WITH TRAILER BRAKE CONTROLLER BLACK TUBULAR SIDE STEPS BY MOPAR AND MUCH, MUCH MORE

*Please see dealer for availability. See dealer for rebate qualification.

Payments are based on special term and rate qualifications.

Payments also include Sales Tax down. See dealer for details.

765-289-2361 | 1717 Wheeling Ave. Muncie, IN 47303

& get 200! $

●

●

●

●

When you make the switch to 3Rivers and open a qualifying checking account with us, we’ll welcome you with $200. Complete a free financial wellness checkup and we’ll reward you with an extra $100.

Making the switch is easy.

Apply online at 3riversfcu.org/switch, visit your nearest branch, or call 800.825.3641 to get started.

If you apply online, be sure to enter “CENTRAL23” in the promo code field. If you apply in a branch or over the phone, make sure you mention this offer!

3riversfcu.org | 800.825.3641 *Limited time offer beginning 05/16/2023 and running through 07/31/2023. Qualifying offer for new members only. Offer only applies to current residents of Hancock, Hamilton, Delaware, or Madison county in the state of Indiana. To earn $200 payout, new member must 1.) be a current resident of Hancock, Hamilton, Delaware, or Madison county in Indiana.

2.) open an eligible checking account and 2.) have an aggregated total of $200 deposited to qualifying checking account via externally produced direct deposit and/or mobile check deposit within the first 60 days of account opening. Eligible consumer checking accounts include Cash Back, Dividends+, Reward, Livin’ Free, Standard, and Onward.

Eligible business checking accounts include Essential Business, Community, and Business Plus. An additional $100 can be earned by completing a financial wellness conversation with a 3Rivers team member over the phone or in a branch. New member MUST meet qualifications for $200 payout in order to be eligible to receive additional $100 payout.

Switched relationships during the promotional period will receive $200-$300 within 30 days after all qualifying requirements are met. 3Rivers reserves the right to withdraw or hold promotional payout if qualifications are not met and/or member changes checking account to an ineligible checking account within 120 days after payout is paid. Promo code “CENTRAL23” must be utilized upon account opening and when scheduling financial wellness appointment. Offer void for persons who have had any existing 3Rivers checking account open within the last 6 months and/or employees of 3Rivers Federal Credit Union. Payout may be considered interest and, as such, 3Rivers will provide an IRS form 1099-INT. Please consult your tax advisor for any tax-related questions. This promotion may be discontinued at any time.

Federally insured by NCUA.

LIVE MUSIC EVERY WEEK!

ELM STREET

COME ENJOY OUR LARGE PATIO!

519 N ELM ST, MUNCIE, IN 47305 (765) 273-2054 ELMSTBREWING.COM FOLLOW FOR WEEKLY SPECIALS

A TOWNE POST NETWORK PUBLICATION

IN THIS ISSUE

JULY 2023

For advertising information, contact:

PUBLISHER JEFF HERN jeff@townepost.com 317.796.0912

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. FOUNDER/CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com 317.496.3599 PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com 317.810.0011

11

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR ERIN TURK CREATIVE DIRECTORS TONI EADS VAL AUSTIN COPY EDITORS JON SHOULDERS NATALIE PLATT

6

17

Summer Bash Indiana Returns in Muncie

Sam McCollum

TAKE IN THE TUNES

11 Scan the QR code to see this magazine’s real-time reach and distribution numbers.

Happy Cans Gets Commercial and Residential Trash Bins Thoroughly Clean

15

#SPOTLIGHTINGLOCAL FOR FRANCHISE INFORMATION, VISIT franchising.townepost.com

Preparing to Meet Danger with Training

29

VIVACIOUS VENUE

CREATIVE COMMEMORATION TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: 317-810-0011

25 MTAC

CAN-DO APPROACH REAL-TIME ANALYTICS

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

The Clubhouse Is for the People, for the City, and for Fun

Heekin Park Welcomes the Muncie Memory Spiral

KEY CONTRIBUTORS AIMEE MACARTHUR / CHRISTY HEITGER-EWING DAVID FENNIG / KYLEE WHITE

ANDERSON 2208 East 8th St. 765-643-6983

MUNCIE 1901 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd 765-643-6983

ONE TIME AND WEEKLY CLEANINGS

midas.com SYNTHETIC BLEND OIL CHANGE PLUS

$

24

99

INCLUDES TIRE ROTATION OIL & FILTER CHANGE COURTESY CHECK INCLUDING VISUAL BRAKE CHECK, BATTERY, AIR FILTER, FLUID, BELTS AND HOSES 4 WHEEL TIRE ROTATION EXPIRES 7/31/23

SAVE ON MAINTENANCE

10 OFF SERVICES OVER $100 20 OFF SERVICES OVER $200 $ 30 OFF SERVICES OVER $300 $ $

BRAKES, EXHAUST, SUSPENSION WHEEL ALIGNMENT, BELTS, HOSES, HEADLAMPS, BULBS & MORE! EXPIRES 7/31/23

johnsonpetwaste.com

Call or Text 765-881-3547

RESIDENTIAL PAINTING, COMMERCIAL PAINTING, ROOFING BATHROOM REMODELS, KITCHEN REMODELS, FLOORING

NUCOAT

FREE ESTIMATES ON ALL RESTORATION PROJECTS!

CONTACT US TODAY! NUCOATPAINTINGSYSTEMSLLC@GMAIL.COM

NUCOATLLC.COM | 765-256-0436

TAKE IN THE TUNES SUMMER BASH INDIANA RETURNS IN MUNCIE Writer / Kylee White Photography Provided

Summer Bash Indiana is returning to Muncie this summer, and will feature 18 different bands throughout two days of camping.

“It actually started in my front yard, back in 2013,” says Brandon Perkins, who started the event. “Down in New Palestine 6 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / JULY 2023 / TownePost.com

I bought a house out in the country and had a big front yard. We rented a stereo from Rent-A-Center, we bought a keg of beer, and cooked some hamburgers and hot dogs. We basically just had a big cookout party in my front yard.”

Perkins began the event as a small gettogether for 30 people. As the years went on, the event grew and could no longer be held at Perkins’ house. He found a campground in Shelby County, where the event was held for a few years. In 2021 Perkins found the Water Bowl in Muncie and started hosting the Summer Bash event for everyone to come and enjoy.

TownePost.com / JULY 2023 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / 7

“Lo and behold, now we have a threeday event with 18 bands, two stages, sponsored by Bud Light and by a bunch of other people,” Perkins says. “Last year we threw it in Muncie, and we had people from 14 different states buy tickets and come to the Water Bowl in Muncie. We’re really trying to spread the word about it in here.”

Summer Bash Indiana will feature bands from Alabama, Tennessee, Virginia Beach, Michigan and Ohio, as well as Indiana.

Tickets are on sale for the event, starting at $65 for the lowest tier, up to $150 for a VIP ticket. People can also choose to add on a $20 early-bird ticket, with which they will be able to enter the venue on Thursday night and enjoy a beach party with a DJ and light show. Individuals can choose a ticket based on the experience they want. The all-inclusive ticket for the weekend costs only $100, and includes food, drinks (such as wine, beer and soda) and camping for two nights.

“We also include ticket taxes and fees because it’s an all-inclusive ticket,” Perkins says. “So for $100 total, you get two days of bands, two nights of camping, food and beer included, and you can’t beat that deal.”

This year Summer Bash Indiana will take place July 14 through 15, with early-entry tickets on sale for July 13 as well. To buy tickets and learn more, visit summerbashindiana.com, or visit their Facebook page @SummerBashIndiana.

Flushstrated?

Call...

JUNE 2023

MAGAZINE

MUNCIE

765 281-1172 ANDERSON

765-642-7066

ALBANY

Big Plans for Small-To wn Charm

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Brittini Miles

TownePost.com

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK!

PC88900213

SUMMER TUNE-UP SPECIAL

7.31.23

7.31.23

Overhead Door Co. of Muncie™

Funeral and Cremation Sservices

When you bring the neighborhood back to the brand, you don’t just build successful businesses.

Elm Ridge Funeral Home & Memorial Park Elm Ridge Funeral Home and Elm Ridge Memorial Park have provided thoughtful, personalized funerals, cremations and cemetery services in Muncie and Yorktown for nearly a century.

Working together, the funeral home and cemetery give families the convenience of making all final arrangements in one place—and are the only providers in the area to do so.

You build connections, relationships, and communities where people want to live, work, and play. aspect6creative.com

765-288-5061

dignitymemorial.com

Black Tie Done Right!

Ford’s 4100 W. Bethel Ave.

INSIDE VOGUE CLEANERS NEXT TO MANCINO’S

Tuxedo 765.282.5322

10 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / JULY 2023 / TownePost.com

4600 W. Kilgore Ave Muncie, IN 47304

Can-Do Approach

Happy Cans Gets Commercial and Residential Trash Bins Thoroughly Clean Writer / Aimee MacArthur Photography Provided

B

usiness owner Craig Robbins is always thinking of new ways to help make Muncie the best city it can be. Robbins recently started a commercial and residential trash bin cleaning service and power-washing business named Happy Cans. The official ribbon-cutting ceremony was on April 26 in Muncie. You may have driven by the friendly-looking, large blue truck in Muncie or surrounding areas.

“We clean, sanitize and deodorize trash bins,” Robbins says. “How we do it is with a combination of high-pressure, high-water flow and high temperatures. We use zero chemicals, and on board our truck is a 10-step filtration system that filters out

all the waste and allows us to reuse that water.”

trucks in a different state and it caught my eye,” Robbins says. “I just watched it and I talked to the guy that was driving Happy Cans has more than 15 years of the truck. I started to do some research specialized industry experience, and on the units to build them. Once I found is a safe and environmentally friendly the manufacturer, of course the pandemic business. Their water filtration and came and I just kind of put everything on recycling systems are EPA approved. As hold. Then about a year ago I went back Robbins says, they do not produce any at it, and got the truck ordered and hit the waste and do not dispose of water into the ground running.” city sewer systems. Happy Cans services Muncie and nearby areas including Robbins says there were a few obstacles Anderson. early on, like dealing with water during bitter cold temperatures. “Around Robbins came up with the idea for Happy November, timing wasn’t great because water freezes,” he says. “I had a few issues Cans prior to the pandemic. but now that the weather has been nice, I’m starting to see a little more traction “Pre-pandemic, I had seen one of these TownePost.com / JULY 2023 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / 11

and things are starting to take off a little more.”

routine services. Customers are thrilled to services. They can pressure-wash houses, have a fresh-smelling garage or backyard. driveways, and wood and composite decks. Robbins says the equipment Happy Cans is reasonably priced and Robbins would like to work with more Happy Cans uses is far superior to any offers one-time, monthly or quarterly homeowners associations (HOAs) to household equipment and the results are services. The quarterly service is the acquire their trash bin cleaning services. fast, impressive and professional. Robbins most popular deal at $39 for cleaning, He believes Happy Cans would be helpful says Happy Cans can also remove sanitizing and deodorizing two residential to a lot of HOAs, to help keep their unwanted graffiti and clean monuments trash bins. Trash bins are cleaned after and memorials. trash is picked up on the homeowner’s scheduled trash pickup day. Robbins As an entrepreneur, Robbins is says since many homeowners keep forward-thinking and has expansion trash cans in the garage, they should plans for Happy Cans. “My end goal is consider using Happy Cans to ensure to have 10 trucks in 10 different cities their trash bins do not smell and keep and to really grow this company to the garage a pleasant-smelling space. the next level,” Robbins says. “I really Many homeowners enter and exit believe in it. I believe in the process. their house through the garage, and I believe in the service. I think it’s use their garage as a space to work on something for everybody. I’m super home projects. Happy Cans sanitizing excited about it.” services help to ensure the garage stays fresh and clean, with trash cans free of “It’s $39 a quarter for me to pay bacteria and viruses. someone to drive to your house and clean, sanitize and deodorize your trash Robbins says washing out a trash cans - up to 2 cans per visit,” Robbins bin at home with a garden hose or a says. “It’s about making people happy. household pressure washer with soap or neighborhoods looking and smelling I want to make Muncie my project, as a chemicals is not sufficient, and does not clean and fresh. Happy Cans also offers great example of what Happy Cans can clean and sanitize the trash bin properly. commercial services for businesses, do.”

Happy Cans uses high-temperature including cleaning and sanitizing trash water (200 degrees) to quickly clean bins and dumpsters.

To learn more about Happy Cans or to the bins, and does this in a safe and request services, call 765-744-4493 or environmentally friendly way. Once In addition to cleaning trash bins, visit myhappycans.com. You can follow customers try Happy Cans, they are so Happy Cans offers both residential them on Facebook and Instagram @ impressed that they often sign up for and commercial pressure-washing myhappycans.

“It’s about making people happy.

I want to make Muncie my project, as a great example of what Happy Cans can do.”

12 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / JULY 2023 / TownePost.com

Voted Muncie’s #1 Boutique!

LEGGINGS | DRESSES | TOPS | BOTTOMS | ACCESSORIES

www.whimsies.shop 4205 N. Wheeling Ave., Muncie IN 47304

TownePost.com / JULY 2023 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / 13

JULY CROSSWORD 8

12

13

14

15

16

17

20

N

L

B

A

S

L S

L

T

G U M S G D O

A

A

C

B

S P

E

I

D

S S F

E L

T

O B O E O A

A

E W

Y

N

A

A

E

E

R

A G S

S E N A B

S R A

U M P

14 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / JULY 2023 / TownePost.com

I

1. Engine part 2. Billboard messages 3. Confusing 4. Cry over spilled milk 5. Looks out for, maybe 6. Paleontologist’s pursuit 7. Get firm 8. Deadly poisons 9. Fertilizer ingredient 10. Suggest 11. Course guidelines?

19. Skeleton component 20. By-the-book 21. Forehead 22. Surrounding glow 24. Aswan or Hoover 26. Token taker 28. America’s Cup activity 29. Audio effect

R U

S

C

A

R

DOWN

M A

1. Subway alternative 4. Klutzes 8. Things that go ___ in the night 12. Tumult 13. Woodwind 14. Calculus calculation 15. N.Y.C. sports venue 16. Fly, e.g.

17. Approximate 18. Wind surges 20. Isn’t quite perpendicular 21. Cinderella’s soiree 23. Factions 25. Athens attractions 27. Don’t keep up 28. Bow wood 31. Busy 33. Mariachi band instrument

35. Fido’s greeting?

36. Variety 38. Scottish ponds 39. 2004 Jude Law role 41. Buy stuff 42. Abalone production 45. Unwelcome forecast 47. Egg cell 48. Rush job notation 49. Diamonds 52. Ran 53. Honor, in a way 54. Peck at 55. Blown away 56. Certain surgeon’s “patient” 57. Mail place (abbr.)

E

ACROSS

T

57

A

H O P

56

O R N

S

O C H

55

L

54

E

53

I

52

K

49

L

48

F

47

I

46

L

45

A

E

T

44

W A G

E

43

E

42

L

41

S

40

E

39

C R

38

A

37

N

A G C

51

I

50

N

36

34

P

35

33

A

32

S

30

A

29

U M

28

O V

G P O

27

E

31

E

26

24

T

23

Solutions E

22

25

11

E

21

19

10

R

18

9

F

7

T

6

E

5

D

4

O R

3

T

2

A W E

1

30. Stinger 32. Holiday help 34. Kate in “Titanic” 37. Mug 39. Holding one’s piece 40. Make happy 42. “___ chance!”

43. Declare 44. Fix 46. Fencing category 48. Fore’s counterpart 50. Mushroom topper 51. “I” problem

CREATIVE COMMEMORATION Heekin Park Welcomes the Muncie Memory Spiral

Story & Photography Provided

If you have recently driven by Heekin Park along Memorial Drive, you may have noticed construction at the corner of Memorial Drive and Hackley Street, as well as a new sign saying “Heekin Park - Muncie Memory Spiral.” This is the latest project of Community Enhancement Projects, also known as CEP. The Muncie Memory Spiral is an 800’ spiral pathway and garden that will be a beautiful new feature in Heekin Park that focuses on Muncie’s history.

Along the landscaped spiral are 23 signs containing images and text about events and themes significantly related to the history of Muncie and the surrounding area. The entrance to the pathway begins with signage about Muncie’s most recent history. As one travels along the spiral, visitors and signage will “spiral back in time” until one reaches the center of the spiral, where there is a gathering space with seating and a shade structure, as well as signage relating to the history of Heekin Park and the importance of the spiral design. In addition, the landscaping also ties into the history theme, as visitors will first encounter shrubs, flowers and plantings common in contemporary landscapes in our area.

Then, as walkers approach the center of the spiral, the plantings change to reflect those indigenous to our area at the time when Native Americans were our primary residents.

The Muncie Memory Spiral is the brainchild of Rick Zeigler, past president of CEP, and his wife, Jeanne Zeigler.

When Rick first conceived the idea for an installation focused on beautification as well as history, his initial thought

was to have a big circle, around which signs would be placed detailing various aspects of our area’s history. When he shared this idea with Jeanne, an artist, she immediately said that it should be a spiral garden and path rather than a circle.

A spiral would be unique, attractive, and would allow for interesting landscaping possibilities within its curves. She also noted that spirals are very significant in the history of our planet and species.

Spirals are found throughout nature, in things as varied as seashells and hurricanes. The spiral is also a symbol found across all cultures and time periods, dating back to cave paintings and our earliest civilizations, continuing right up through the present in art and literature.

Basically, our connection to spirals is figuratively and literally in our DNA, as our DNA is also spiral-shaped.

When the idea for the Muncie Memory Spiral was presented to the CEP board, they readily agreed to form a special committee and to oversee construction TownePost.com / JULY 2023 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / 15

of the project. The CEP board felt that the Muncie Memory Spiral aligned well with its mission and project history, as it would be a beautiful, unique and significant addition to Muncie’s park system that would enhance the quality of life for all residents of our area as well as foster community pride. Since its founding in 1990, CEP’s mission has been to foster through its beautification efforts an environment wherein area citizens, government, industry and other organizations continue to enhance and improve our quality of life for today’s community and future generations.

CEP has undertaken many projects, with the help of many community partners, throughout the Muncie and Delaware County area. These include beautifying the traffic medians and triangles downtown near City Hall and the roundabouts at Morrison Road and near the airport on Walnut Street, designing and maintaining Riverbend Park near City Hall as well as Cornerstone and Fireman’s parks downtown along Madison Street,

and installing hanging flower baskets on the Washington Street Bridge and flower containers in front of a number of businesses downtown. The CEP project that has arguably had the greatest impact in our area is the White River Greenway with its five overlooks.

While Cardinal Greenways has been in charge of the White River Greenway since 2004, it was CEP, with the help of John Craddock, that helped to initiate its design and construction back in 1995, including overseeing the building of the five overlooks along the river, four of which CEP continues to maintain to this day (Oakhurst Overlook is maintained by Minnetrista).

Rick and the CEP board also thought it important to locate the Muncie Memory Spiral in the Southside of Muncie.

Muncie’s Southside and its residents were integral to the development of the city, as the Southside was the location for so many of the major factories that powered Muncie forward during the late 19th and early and mid-20th centuries. Given the focus on both beautifying the area and providing a unique outdoor forum that would have educational benefits exploring the history of Muncie, Heekin Park clearly stood out as the perfect Southside location. The park already contains many significant historical attractions located within its boundaries, including the replicas of pioneer cabins, commemorations for those Muncie and Delaware County residents who fought in the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, World Wars I and II, and the Vietnam War, as well as the historic Grace Keiser Maring Library building, the Five Points Fountain, and, very importantly, the Walk of Fame honoring the many black leaders and area residents who have made a difference in our community by helping to break down racial barriers throughout our city’s history. By placing the Muncie Memory Spiral in Heekin Park, CEP’s hope is that Heekin will become known throughout our community as “Muncie’s History Park” and will encourage visitors

from all of Muncie, Delaware County and beyond.

While CEP’s focus is beautification, Rick turned to Chris Flook, a longtime leader of the Delaware County Historical Society, a writer for the Star Press and one of our area’s pre- eminent historians, for help with the historical signage.

Flook agreed to convene his own committee and head up the effort to select the themes, topics and images for the signs, as well as create a website for the Muncie Memory Spiral that can be accessed by scanning any of the QR codes that are located on each of the signs.

Among the subjects eventually selected for the 23 signs are “Muncie’s Automotive History,” “The Other Side of Middletown: Black Resistance and Persistence in Muncie,” “Muncie and the Arts,” “The Gas and Oil Boom,” “Spiritual Life,” “The American Civil War,” and our area’s “Original Indigenous Peoples.”

Mayor Dan Ridenour gave his blessing to the project and its location in Heekin Park. He also provided a financial commitment to the project that Rick and CEP felt would be necessary if they were to successfully raise the necessary funds from private foundations and businesses.

The city’s financial help, however, was very limited in scope, being less than 8% of the total cost of the project.

The other 92% came from a wide array of generous organizations including the Sherman and Marjorie Zeigler Foundation, Ball Brothers Foundation, the George and Frances Ball Foundation, the Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County, the Land Conservation Trust at the Community Foundation, the Hamer D. & Phyllis C. Shafer Foundation, the MutualBank Foundation, Old National Bank Foundation, American Lawnmower and Robert Kersey, BoyceSystems, Meeks Mortuary, First Merchants Corporation charitable fund, Magna Powertrain, the IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital 16 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / JULY 2023 / TownePost.com

Foundation, Versatile Metal Works (inkind), Jay-Crew Landscaping (in-kind), and the Delaware County Historical Society (in-kind).

CEP also focused on using local firms for the construction of the many elements of the Muncie Memory Spiral. Rundell Ernstberger Associates, who for many years had an office in Muncie, helped Rick, Jeanne and CEP flesh out their ideas for the project in a way that made them achievable and aesthetically pleasing.

Southside native Kyle Koger, along with the recently retired Eric Ernstberger, helped lead this effort.

Local firm Pridemark Construction was selected to take charge of the project’s construction. Rick also approached Jeremi Dobbs at Versatile Metal Works to see if his firm would build the shade structure and sign pedestals. Dobbs, a Southside native whose firm is in the South Central neighborhood, was excited about participating in the project.

In addition, students from the Department of Landscape Architecture at Ball State helped design the shade structure. This being a CEP project, beautiful plantings were absolutely essential for the desired visual impact of the installation, so CEP engaged Southside business Jay-Crew Landscaping, a longtime partner, to help design, install and maintain the plantings within the curves of the Muncie Memory Spiral. Finally, local printing and graphics firms Farmhouse Creative and Ace Signs worked together to make the sign ideas from Chris Flook’s committee a reality.

With the Muncie Memory Spiral days away from completion, please plan to make a visit to this completely unique installation in Heekin Park. To help celebrate, CEP is also planning to hold a large community gathering and party at the site on Saturday, August 26, when the weather will be warm and many of the plantings will be in bloom. All Muncie area residents and visitors are invited.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT you,” she told him.

SPONSORED BY:

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography Provided

Sam McCollum first attended Ivy Tech in 2011. At the time he didn’t have a stable home so he was couch surfing. As a result of his chaotic life, in addition to undiagnosed attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder and the fact that he was still coming to grips with his identity, he flunked out. Over the next several years he was on a journey of self-discovery, but it wasn’t until he landed a job at a women’s and children’s recovery center (a program for mothers in recovery) that he realized his calling.

“That was a life-changing experience because I started to learn more about addiction and childhood trauma,” says McCollum. “Once I began learning about the technical aspects of trauma, addiction and other psychological conditions, and how environment impacts those so much, the world busted open for me. I realized that there was nothing wrong with me.”

His manager at the recovery center encouraged McCollum to go back to school to get his degree in counseling.

“There are people out there who need

After writing an appeal letter, Ivy Tech readmitted him in 2020.

McCollum, a human services major who graduated from Ivy Tech this spring, not only went from a straight-F to a straight-A student, but he’s also the first of his generation to attend a four-year college, as he’ll start attending Ball State University in the fall.

McCollum, who once battled depression and suicidal ideation, reached out to the Trevor Project, a nonprofit organization focused on suicide prevention efforts among LGBTQ+ youths. After receiving help, he always knew that he wanted to help others. He now works as a crisis specialist for the 988 lifeline to aid those who are feeling suicidal.

Three years ago McCollum came out as trans, married his partner, Beth, and for the first time in his life felt comfortable in his own skin.

“Once I was comfortable being who I am, that gave me the confidence to go back to school,” says McCollum, who not only dove into his studies, but also became student government president at Ivy Tech. “I wanted to show people that it doesn’t matter where you come from. If you have support in the right environment, you can flourish.”

That’s what Ivy Tech did for McCollum.

“Ivy Tech is such a welcoming

TownePost.com / JULY 2023 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / 17

SAM MCCOLLUM

environment,” says McCollum, who is 30. “You have all walks of life there. You have people in their 70s and people straight out of high school, and everyone in between.”

This spring McCollum was nominated through the School of Public Affairs and Social Services as a 2023 Outstanding Student.

The professor who nominated him called McCollum “a blessing to the human services field.”

McCollum credits his wife, Beth, and son, Liam, for helping him stay motivated to complete his academic journey.

“They are amazing,” he says. “I’m very lucky.”

Attending Ivy Tech showed McCollum that he could not only survive, but thrive.

“It dismissed those thoughts that I wasn’t capable,” he says. “I just knew there was something inside of me that really could change the world.”

18 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / JULY 2023 / TownePost.com

Investing in Infrastructure 2020: Developing a Plan In 2020, the Public Works Department was nearly $2 million in debt, and was not eligible to receive State funding. The City brought in an independent inspector to complete a roads audit and put together a 5 year paving plan, so that we could become eligible for State grants again.

We lost a full year of paving due to repaying the debt and getting back on our feet.

2021: Regaining Lost Ground In 2021, we went to work tackling the roads that scored the lowest and received the most traffic.

We hired outside contractors to complete this work, which is expensive and takes longer. Instead of just resurfacing, we are committed to milling and repaving, so the roads last up to 5 times longer.

2022: Investing in our Future In 2022, we were able to purchase our own milling and paving machines, and train our Public Works employees to mill and pave roads! Our in-house crew can complete projects with up to 60% less expense, so that we can complete more projects with our budget.

2023: Building Momentum Thanks to our in-house paving crew, we can pave three more miles of neighborhood roads than originally planned. We are also keeping ourselves eligible for State funding, and have successfully petitioned to move several years forward in the funding timeline. This means major projects like McGalliard and Tillotson can happen sooner!

The City Paving Crew works off of Burlington.

TownePost.com / JULY 2023 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / 19

ROADS COMPLETED 2021 9th 13th 14th 15th 16th* 19th 20th 23rd Adams Allison Andover Ashland* Baker Benton Berkley Bethel Bunch Centennial Clara Cornbread Cowing Park Edgewood Elgin Elsie Greenwood Hartford Hessler Janney Lantern Park

Linda Main Manhattan Martin Morrison New York* North Pine Purdue Riverside* Stockport Tillotson Phase 1 Westwood Wilson Winthrop* Woodsedge Wort

2022 5th Alden Azalea Charles College E 2nd** E 17th E 21st Jackson Main Mckinley & Charles N Claypool N Locust*** N Manring N Maplewood* N State N Wolfe** North* Pershing Primrose Reserve* Riley Roosevelt S Elm S Hutchinson S Jefferson** S Pierce** S Rosemont Tulip

University W Bowman* W Harvard W Howard Washington Wisteria

* Phases 1 & 2, ** Phases 1-3, *** Phases 1-4

20 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / JULY 2023 / TownePost.com

2023 (Planned) 10th 14th Alley Ball Biltmore Brentwood Buckles Burlington* Cherokee Chippewa Cromer E 16th* E 22nd E 24th E Centennial E Indiana E Russey Euclid Forest Garver Gilbert Glenwood Granville Greenway Bridge Hollywood Hoyt Jersey Liberty Linden*

Lyn Mar Maumee Meadowlark Meeker* N Robinwood Opechee Pettigrew Prairie Creek Purdue* Riverside* Riverside Trail S Sycamore Shady Storer Tilotson Trail Depot University* W 14th W 16th W Jackson W Main W Robinwood Wade Wheeling Phase 1 Winthrop Woodway

Putting Down Roots New Housing in Muncie Provides Opportunities for Working Families On May 17th, representatives from the City of Muncie, Pivotal Home Solutions, CPM construction, Industry Neighborhood Association, and the press gathered for a groundbreaking Ceremony of the new City View Homes. This project will provide affordable, income-based rental homes that will later be available for ownership. Renters will earn credits that can be applied to a future home purchase.

New Housing in Muncie Provides Opportunities for Working Families On May 17th, representatives from the City of Muncie, Pivotal Home Solutions, CPM construction, Industry Neighborhood Association, and the press gathered for a groundbreaking Ceremony of the new City View Homes. This project will provide affordable, income-based rental homes that will later be available for ownership. Renters will earn credits that can be applied to a future home purchase.

On the 23rd, Riverbend Flats hosted a Grand Opening. This was another collaborative project that demolished an abandoned building, raised the area out of a flood zone, and constructed 60 incomebased units for families earning less than 60% of the Area Mean Income.

Counting all projects initiated since 2020, Muncie is gaining 270 new homes!

TownePost.com / JULY 2023 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / 21

City Launches Phase 3 of A Thousand Trees in A Thousand Days Three years ago, Mayor Ridenour launched A Thousand Trees in A Thousand Days, a project designed to restore the “Cathedral of Green” and improve quality of life in Muncie. The team has exceeded their goal each year, and is on track to plant more than 1,000 total trees by the end of the year!

All of the trees are native to Indiana, and are planted as established trees instead of saplings. The first 40 trees of 2023 were planted at Gillman Home Center.

A young tree is ready to be planted at Gillman Home Center. It will grow to the size of the mature tree in the background.

22 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / JULY 2023 / TownePost.com

Dr. Linh Vu, DC Services Provided: Adjustments Acupuncture Soft Tissue Therapy Traction Therapy

Odie the clinic therapy dog

Call to make your appointment 765-881-8047

1816 W. Royale Drive Muncie, IN 47604

YourArborHome.com

cardinalchiropracticmuncie.com

317.707.4553

TownePost.com / JULY 2023 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / 23

s n o i t a n i Nomow Open!

N

TOP LOCAL NOMINATE YOUR TOP LOCAL BUSINESSES We are looking for your favorite local businesses to feature in our Towne Post Network magazines, website, and social media. Each month, we will acknowledge Townies’ Top Local Award recipients and list them in our monthly print publications. There is no cost to be recognized, we’re just looking for the businesses that locals feel are the best!

HOW TO QUALIFY To be considered, your business must be nominated by someone other than the owner(s) of the business. Those with the most nominations will be considered before others, so make sure you get your most loyal local fans to nominate your business. When being considered, Towne Post Network editorial staff will review the following criteria to insure these qualifications are met:

Online Ranking 4.5 Stars or Higher Listing on TownePost.com Supports Local Charities Locally Owned

24 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / JULY 2023 / TownePost.com

MTAC

PREPARING TO MEET DANGER WITH TRAINING

Writer / Aimee MacArthur Photographer / David Fennig

Eric McBride started MTAC as Muncie Threat Assessment Center to train citizens and law enforcement in armed home defense and personal protection.

As it expanded, its name changed to Midwest Threat Assessment Center, and is now MTAC Muncie as the organization prepares to launch franchises.

“We want to turn Indiana into a Mecca for training,” says McBride. “Most people either want personal protection or home defense, or both. Each one of those missions has very specific training that goes behind it. We have designed courses to help progress people in each one of those categories, or both.”

MTAC offers 35 classes to take students from A to Z in handling firearms.

According to McBride, most of the time when civilians are faced with the need to use a weapon, the stress of the situation prevents them from being effective or accurate. MTAC focuses on “stress inoculation” by incrementally adding time pressures or other stressors to their students’ training regime, to build up their ability to handle their weapon under pressure.

“We need to get students to the point where weapon manipulation becomes second nature,” says McBride.

According to him, the most important training tool for preparing for violent situations is “opposed training,” which pits students against training officers or experienced volunteers to gain an experience as close to a real gun fight as possible. This allows students to undergo a simulation of combat, and train their reactions to not become overwhelmed by the stress. It was an ambitious plan to start such a training range here in Muncie, TownePost.com / JULY 2023 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / 25

a range referred to by McBride as a “shoot house.”

“At the time we started, there were only six in the country,” McBride says. “The purpose behind it is to validate your training, to expose yourself as much as you can to that failure so that you start succeeding.”

There is no substitute for effective MTAC is located at 3800 East McGalliard training, and MTAC’s mission is to Road in Muncie. For more info, call 765provide that training to anyone concerned 505-6822 or go to mtactraining.com. about using their firearms correctly and appropriately.

McBride is a reserve for the Delaware County Sheriff ’s Office and has been in law enforcement for 16 years. “I realized there was an opportunity to train armed citizens in the same manner that law enforcement and military are trained,” he says.

The instructors who work for MTAC are typically either law enforcement training officers or ex-military, if not both.

Unfortunately it can be difficult getting gun owners to take action to consistently train with their weapon.

“What we find is that less than 2% of [gun owners] train with their gun,” says McBride. “It’s interesting to me that people will have something that can actually take a life on them, and they don’t want to practice with it.”

MTAC also offers critical training on use of force and rules of engagement. “I think the biggest thing that people need to hear is that they don’t understand use of force when they can use that gun legally,” says McBride. “When people ask me a hypothetical question about it, most of the time they have a wrong understanding of it.”

Some organizations such as churches, schools and corporations put together teams of armed guards to try and prevent the risk of mass shootings, but they will often neglect to invest sufficiently in training. MTAC offers training for such groups, as well as consulting for making a location a hard target. Training for armed guards is an investment that many organizations are reluctant to make, and many of them take other, less effective steps to appear like they have prepared.

26 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / JULY 2023 / TownePost.com

H H

BUILD THE PERFECT DECK

Call the PROS

765.400.PROS

PORTICO OR PERGOLA

WHY WE DO WHAT WE DO

Protecting the things and the people you love most.

Business • Auto • Home • Life

Marion | Alexandria | Tipton | Kokomo | Hartford City | Columbus www.clarkig.com

TownePost.com / JULY 2023 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / 27

28 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / JULY 2023 / TownePost.com

Vivacious Venue THE CLUBHOUSE IS FOR THE PEOPLE, FOR THE CITY, AND FOR FUN

“I wanted to start a philanthropic effort in Muncie that would benefit the city, the county and the community The Clubhouse is a unique, indoor entertainment venue that offers numerous as a whole,” says Unger, who owns a technology company located upstairs digital entertainment bays, micro golf, mini cornhole, and a full kitchen and bar. from the Clubhouse. When they had a soft opening at the end of 2022 and began It’s a place where friends, colleagues and families come together not just for a meal hosting private events and corporate gatherings, some people assumed that the or a drink, but also for a fun, memorable establishment wasn’t open to the public, experience. but that’s not the case.

One night last year, Adam Unger, who grew up in Muncie and has a passion for “The Clubhouse was built for the people philanthropy, experienced an epiphany.

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography Provided

TownePost.com / JULY 2023 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / 29

of Muncie,” Unger says. “Everyone is welcome.”

Unger knew that the business would not only create jobs, but also make the city better and, by extension, increase pride in the people of the city. Unger vows that while the Clubhouse is the first venue to do this in Muncie, it won’t be the last.

Unger is not going to profit from this endeavor, and that’s not his goal.

“When people come to the Clubhouse,

yes, we hope they enjoy the food, the service, the environment and the world-class entertainment bays,” Unger says. “But the reality is that by visiting the Clubhouse, you’re contributing to philanthropy because every dollar that we make, we want to turn around and create another philanthropic business in downtown Muncie.”

He wanted not only to create a one-of-akind experience from an entertainment perspective, but also offer experiences that are harder to find in other places.

The same goes for the food, which is why the menu has so much variety. They sell everything from prime rib sliders, chicken salad croissants and brisket nachos, to flatbreads, hot wings and steak salad.

“We accommodate all of the different palates,” Unger says.

Located on the north end of historic downtown Muncie, the Clubhouse is in the old 1940s Sears building. They took out the clay block on the north wall and put in windows as well as three garage doors to have a patio that opens up. In addition, they carefully took apart the old freight elevator, refurbished it, and put it back together in the front hall of the dining area to create a unique stage for musical performances.

So far the reception from the public has been great. In fact, in the first four months they were open, they hosted a whopping 250 birthday parties. Companies also enjoy holding corporate lunches, teambuilding events and strategic planning sessions.

“It’s exciting to know that we’re contributing something back to the community that’s valuable to them,” Unger says. “We hope people will enjoy the Clubhouse. If they do, we’ll have a great shot at creating something else that they can appreciate.”

The Clubhouse is located at 115 South Walnut Street in Muncie. For more information, call 765-216-7245 or visit clubhousemuncie.com.

30 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / JULY 2023 / TownePost.com

no job too small, no dream too big, helping you live where you love and love where you live.

765-702-3534 www.juliannbarnesdesigns.com juliannbarnesdesigns@gmail.com

We offer catering for parties, corporate events, employee appreciation, family gatherings etc.

A TEAM CONCESSIONS

From sit down meals to fun fair type food. Follow us on Facebook for events we will be at!

765-702-7188

TheATeamConcessions@gmail.com A Team Concessions

@theateamconcessions TownePost.com / JULY 2023 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / 31

@ateamconcession

ACT NOW TO BOOK FOR SPRING!

D L R O W T OF THIS

Taking Concrete Out of This World

U O y E a T d E 1 R s C a N e O ttl C i l s G a N I n i K s A T tion a m R O O sFL Tran

Professionally installed concrete coating solutions for your home or business! 4X Stronger Than Epoxy 2X Better Adhesion EPOXY One Day Installation Will Not Chip or Peel 15 Year No-Hassle Warranty Easy to Keep Clean 100% Antibacterial, Antimicrobial & Easy on the Feet

10% OFF Your Floor Coating

when you mention Muncie Mag

Initial visit only. Can't be combined with other offers. New orders only. Expires 2/25/23.

7/31/23.

GalaxyConcreteCoatings.com

BEFORE BEFORE BEFORE BEFORE

317-526-5157 TOLL FREE

877-417-0635

GARAGE | PATIOS | POOLS | BASEMENTS | COMMERCIAL 32 / MUNCIE MAGAZINE / JULY 2023 / TownePost.com

AFTER AFTER