Muncie Magazine July 2024

BUSINESS BUSINESS HEALTH CHECK HEALTH CHECK

Evaluating the Health & Wellness of Your Business

Business Health Check

As individuals undergo regular physical health checks to assess their physical and mental well-being and identify areas for improvement, businesses and organizations can benefit from periodic "Business Health Checks." These assessments play a crucial role in determining the organization's current status, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and uncovering opportunities for growth and development. It will provide business leaders with valuable insights into the company's current business health, performance, and areas where intervention is necessary for immediate and future success. This document outlines the process of conducting a comprehensive Business Health Check, drawing parallels to the concept of a physical health check for individuals.

Why should I Participate in the Business Health Check program?

Uncover trouble spots in your business

Identify key economic indicators

Review your business's financial statements

Leads to long-term health and wellness for the business and owner

Confidential environment to discuss business

Should lead to increased profitability and future development opportunities

IS YOUR BUSINESS DUE FOR A CHECK-UP?

Components of a Business Health Check:

Business Analysis of Financial Performance

Assessing financial statements, profitability, and cash flow

Operational Efficiency

Evaluating key operational processes, productivity, and efficiency metrics

Risk Assessment:

Preview areas of risk for business operations and sustainability

Adaptability

Review internal culture and operations that could lead to innovative changes and pivoting business as needed

Review the Health and Wellness of the

Organization/Business Owners and Leaders

Open discussion about the personal health and wellness of individuals within the business – starting with the owner(s) or leaders.

RODEO QUEEN

Rhylan Morgan Rides the Road Less Traveled

INNOVATION DD DANNAR LLC Aims to Change the Way We Build and Use Electricity 15 PAPER DONE

Sinflex Stands Out in the Paper Manufacturing Biz

jeff@townepost.com (317) 796-0912

Annual Muncie IRONMAN Event Represents 45 Years of Athletic Excellence

Become a Community Health Worker in Eight Weeks With Ivy Tech Muncie-Henry County

The attorneys at Delk McNally tirelessly pursue effective results. Our clients can expect the highlevel sophistication and expertise typically associated with the largest law firms and the personal service and attention found with a small firm.

Corporate and General Litigation, General Business Law, Personal Injury, Medical Malpractice, Real Estate, Municipal

Practice in State and Federal Courts Offices in Muncie and Carmel 765-896-9495 delkmcnally.com

RODEO QUEEN

RHYLAN MORGAN RIDES THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED

Writer / Alyson Madsen

Photography Provided

Rhylan Morgan knows her way around a rodeo.

Gifted with a competition horse at the age of age 5, she showed a proclivity for riding early on, eschewing other sports such as tee-ball and basketball for rodeo. Barrel racing, pole bending and goat tying are her passions.

“We weren’t really a horse family, but we couldn’t deny Rhylan’s keen interest from the start,” said her mother, Jennifer. A few miniature ponies nurtured Rhylan’s interest in horses, while her father, Jessie, who rode growing up, and her older brother, Gunner, have consistently shown their support.

At age 3, Rhylan began lessons with her neighbor, Debi Osborn, learning the basics of horse grooming, haltering, caring and feeding. Summer day camps became a mainstay. From kindergarten through eighth grade, Jennifer drove Rhylan to weekly junior competitions in Salem for the Southern Indiana Junior Rodeo Association.

“Rhylan still does all of the grooming, saddling, tack, feeding and watering,” said Jennifer, who recognizes that some of her daughter’s competitors leave that work to their parents.

Now 18 and on the cusp of graduation from Wapahani High School, Rhylan’s future looms bright, with an Ivy Tech degree in radiology technology on her radar, aided by a scholarship from the Indiana High School Rodeo Association.

“I still see myself competing in rodeo down the road,” said Rhylan, sitting in the kitchen of her family’s comfortable home near Prairie Creek Reservoir. A massive horse trailer, the one the family hauls to

weekend competitions, flanks the property. Special Recognition Award. She is the lone

INSPIRING INNOVATION

DD DANNAR LLC AIMS TO CHANGE THE WAY WE BUILD AND USE ELECTRICITY

Writer / Ted Ward Photographer / Amy Leffingwell

Just a stone’s throw from the heart of downtown Muncie, where the White River and East Jackson Street intersect, sits the headquarters and production facility of DD DANNAR LLC - a manufacturer of zero-emission, high-performing, off-road industrial machinery.

This area’s rich industrial and innovative history was a key component for why Gary Dannar, founder and CEO, chose to locate in Muncie. “We want our company to be a transformer in the workforce, to quickly come in and build a company with local employees and grow,” says Dannar, when asked about the company’s contribution to that history in a modern era. “The medium to do that happens also

to be a pretty cool product.”

Their core product is the Mobile Power Station® (MPS®). This first-of-its-kind platform runs on electric energy and, more importantly, can deliver stored electric energy for powering or recharging equipment and operations in remote or affected areas.

For example, the current product iteration, the DANNAR MPS® 4.00 configuration, comes standard with 250 kWh and is configurable up to 500 kWh. That is just the beginning of what DANNAR has put together, as these platforms can be configured with modular hydraulic attachments found on other well-

known industrial equipment vehicles. While a cab can be installed for manual operation on-site, “the machine can be operated with a remote control or programmed autonomously to increase safety in certain areas of operation,” states Dannar. Since it accommodates universal attachments, the platform has the flexibility for industrial customers to swap out attachments easily for the necessary function at the time, which can also increase efficiency when considering vehicles that are more seasonal in usage, often sitting unused for long periods.

For more than 30 years, Dannar’s work in the areas of off-road mechanical and industrial solutions has consistently brought

curiosity about why things work and a desire to provide solutions that do the job better. That has translated into building a company too.

“Big solutions and operations make it hard for everyone to feel like they can make a real difference and not just be another cog in a wheel,” Dannar says. He believes that the most efficient way to scale a business is to take one bite at a time and build one facility at a time, so employees feel empowered throughout its growth.

the supply-chain obstacles that followed. However, this company is hitting stride with a backlog of orders into 2025. “We are in transition from mechanical internal combustion to electric,” says Dannar. “The world hasn’t seen something like this before.”

Dannar sees a great opportunity for the company to be in this energy space with a multipurpose and multiindustry application product. “While other states may be resistant to preparing for this energy transformation, Indiana seems focused on taking all of the steps necessary to be a viable player in the field,” says Dannar.

when putting the product together. While Dannar notes that it was kind and generous of the many private local individuals who funded and otherwise assisted with the early phases of development, DANNAR is now set to venture into the subsequent growth phases through Series A industrial investments. These investments will give DANNAR the further ability to scale and expand operations, potentially generating more employment opportunities for the area.

“We came in quietly to confirm our technology by going to early adopters with a rifled approach, so that we could see the adoption of our products happen and responsibly grow,” Dannar says, regarding the headquarters and production facility in Muncie.

DANNAR has certainly seen its share of challenges too. In addition to the arduous process of converting the former industrial brownfield into a viable site for manufacturing operations, the company has dealt with delays brought about by the COVID pandemic and

The future of DANNAR in Muncie looks bright. The adoption of the MPS® continues to expand, and Dannar recognizes that he is on the precipice of growth for the company. “I wanted to make a difference in America,” he says. “I wanted to develop a product made by Americans and bring back manufacturing that could compete globally, and we have done that.”

He seems most excited about the company’s ability to help foster energy transformation with a product made efficiently in Muncie. It doesn’t have to be done with robots, but rather with human intelligence and judgment

A genuine modesty is present when speaking with Dannar, which is perhaps why, through the early stages of DANNAR’s development, the company has remained relatively quiet and unassuming in its local presence. When asked about his experience with Muncie residents, Dannar says it is always a surprise, and never gets old, when he gets stopped in the community by people he hasn’t met before, and they thank him for what his company is doing for the community. Dannar knows that the company has the “Power to Transform,” which is not only a company tagline, but also an ideology deeply rooted in his notion of living and working.

“We want to see American manufacturing back as strong as it ever was, and we are here in Muncie because this community is rebuilding itself,” he says.

To learn more, go to dannar.us.com.

PAPER DONE RIGHT

SINFLEX STANDS OUT IN THE PAPER MANUFACTURING BIZ

Paper manufacturing is booming here in Muncie.

Under the watchful eyes of brothers Josh and Austin Burton (company president and vice president, respectively), and with father and former owner Matt Burton as consultant, Sinflex Paper Company’s single-face corrugated cardboard is flying off the shelves.

With its genesis in 1982, Sinflex was purchased by Matt’s uncle, John Stilwell, in 1985, bringing Matt on board as general manager. He acquired the company in 1995. Relocating from Eaton to Albany, and then to Muncie in 2015, the company had outgrown its small operation. An empty paper plant on

Butterfield Road seemed a perfect spot. A central location in the industrial Midwest, with cheap freight costs and easy access to and from the area, made sense. A bigger building meant an increased workforce and one shift instead of two.

Taking two years for the move, the company added state-of-the art equipment and electrical and plumbing throughout.

“We maintained two locations to begin with, controlling expenses as well as we could,” said Josh. Sixteen-hour days were the norm.

Ultimately the company jumped from three to 30 employees. Building additions provided

extra square footage.

“We wanted to stay local,” said Matt, who retired on January 1, 2024. “Even if we expanded elsewhere, this would remain our hub.”

Once the cardboard is produced, the team leaves it to their factory reps to secure hundreds of distributors to sell the product nationwide.

“We may never know where the product ends up,” said Austin. Coffee sleeves, bulletin-board borders, tubing, and industrial packaging are among the many diverse needs Sinflex helps with.

Writer / Alyson Madsen Photographer / Dylan Senkus

Amazon, Chewy, and even Muncie’s Reber Machine & Tool Company are clients.

Like every business, Sinflex experienced some lean years after the 2008 recession. When the economy rebounded, so did the company’s bottom line. Business thrived during the pandemic with the uptick in e-commerce. “We were definitely considered essential,” stated Josh.

Running a family business has had its advantages.

“It’s easier to communicate if you’re family,” said Austin. “We’re not afraid to say what we’re thinking, and it’s made us closer.”

Austin attended Berklee College of Music in Boston, where he majored in music education and performance. Austin studied under some of the finest musicians in the world, including one of his favorite artists, John Mayer, a Berklee alum. If you’d like to catch some live music when Austin isn’t enjoying his time at the family business, look for the band 5 Speeds at various Muncie venues.

What sets Sinflex apart from competitors?

“We pride ourselves on customer service,” said Matt. “Paper is all we do; it’s why we stand out above the rest.”

“Plus, we’re not automated,” added Josh. “If you call into our office, you’ll speak to a live person. Customers appreciate that.”

The company has also gone green, which is just one of many practices contributing to their success. All of their paper is 100% recyclable.

Heading into the future, the Sinflex team’s overall goal is to continue to empower businesses to enhance their product protection, branding and sustainability efforts.

“We’re here to provide our customers with a customized, high-quality product every time,” said Matt.

Sinflex can be reached at 765-216-6142. Go to sinflexpaper.com for more info.

VIEW OR SUBMIT EVENTS!

TOWNE POST LAUNCHES NEW HYPERLOCAL COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR

Writer / Devon Dean

The Towne Post Network of publications is proud to announce the launch of a new, hyperlocal community events calendaronline.

Using an aggregating software partner, the Towne Post Events Calendar includes information from more than 200 sources across the regions the company serves. This includes LiveNation, VisitIndy.com, various chamber of commerce websites, and a wealth of other community calendars to give a complete rundown of fun things to do in your area.

As a user, you can filter by date, time, city, proximity, and even by event type. If you are hosting a local event, this is a free service with additional paid opportunities for expanded visibility starting at just $2 a day. As the Towne Post Events Calendar expands, an email will go out every Thursday to give subscribers the scoop

on what’s going on around town each weekend.

“Summer is a busy time and it’s hard to keep track of everything that is happening,” says Towne Post CEO and Founder Tom Britt. “Our goal is to create another point of connection between people and the communities they live in by highlighting all the great local events coming up.”

See what’s happening at townepost.com/ calendar. To subscribe for weekly emails, subscribe at TownePost.com and click the “Email Newsletters” button at the top of the website.

About the Towne Post Network, Inc.

Founded in 2004 with a mission to create engaging and relevant publications, Towne Post Network is redefining the magazine industry. With a focus on hyperlocal content and an integrated

print and digital marketing approach, their magazines connect businesses and residents in communities like never before. Towne Post Network’s cloud-based platform offers franchisees flexibility and freedom, allowing them to work from home while benefiting from comprehensive support and services. Their success stems from collaboration with local businesses, providing a platform for them to thrive and engage with their target audience. With an expanding network of hyperlocal publishers, Towne Post Network is actively seeking passionate individuals to bring their community-focused magazines to towns across the country. Franchisees benefit from a proven business model and a support system that handles design, distribution and more. For more information about Towne Post Network, Inc. and franchise opportunities, please visit franchising.townepost.com.

DEVOTED AND DETERMINED

ERSKINE GREEN TRAINING INSTITUTE EQUIPS THOSE WITH DISABILITIES WITH VOCATIONAL SKILLS

Story & Photography Provided

A perhaps-unknown jewel located in Muncie is The Arc of Indiana Foundation’s Erskine Green Training Institute (EGTI). The Arc of Indiana, established in 1956 by families of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), is Indiana’s leading advocacy organization for people with IDD and their families. The Arc has 44 chapters covering 68 counties across Indiana, including Hillcroft Services.

Housed within the Courtyard Muncie at Horizon Convention Center, owned by The Arc’s for-profit corporation, EGTI

was founded in 2016 with the mission to provide opportunities for postsecondary vocational training for people with disabilities that empower and lead to meaningful employment.

The idea for EGTI was imagined over a latenight dinner as leaders of The Arc, including the father of a son with Down syndrome, envisioned a hotel where people with disabilities could receive job training and go on to provide staffing at the hotel.

EGTI is named in honor of two families who

represent the first generations of The Arc movement. Carl Erskine, renowned for his baseball career with the Brooklyn Dodgers, and Steve Green, Bobby Knight’s first recruit at Indiana University, share more than their connection as athletes. Carl and his wife, Betty, began their advocacy for people with disabilities in the 1950s when their son, Jim, was born with Down syndrome. Steve and his wife, Lana, began their journey in the 1970s when their first child was also born with Down syndrome. Both families advocated for their children to be fully included in their school, community and workplace.

EGTI Director Megan Stevenson, a Ball State graduate, was hired in 2014 to develop EGTI’s training programs, using her background in special education and transition planning for young adults. Today EGTI provides training in hospitality, food service, health care and inventory distribution. During 10- and 12week training sessions, students attend class, master key job skills and gain valuable work experience through internships at Courtyard Muncie, 1925 PubHouse and IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital.

In addition to hands-on job training, the curriculum addresses critical soft skills like appropriate workplace etiquette, teamwork, taking direction, and effective communication skills.

To date, EGTI has graduated 311 students, and over 80% of EGTI graduates have secured employment in communities throughout Indiana.

One example of EGTI’s success is a graduate who completed the inventory distribution program in the fall of 2018, and went on to secure employment at an Indianapolisarea hospital making $13.65 an hour. Over the next three years she received three promotions and is now a shift supervisor, supervising 16 staff members and making over $45,000 a year.

Prospective students and their families are encouraged to visit EGTI by registering for one of their monthly general tours, and/or registering for Career Sampling Sessionstwo-day opportunities for potential students to observe and try the various training programs offered by EGTI.

EGTI is excited to be expanding their training programs to Indianapolis later this year, where students will receive training in manufacturing at Allison Transmission, as well as food service, health care, and inventory distribution at Riley Hospital for Children.

To learn more about EGTI, visit egti.org, or contact info@egti.org. Follow EGTI on Facebook @erskinegreeninstitute, and on Instagram @erskinegreen.

Thursday • July 18

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

MATTHEW SHARP

Photography Provided by Photography by Kate

For Matthew Sharp, working in media was his personal goal. During high school he worked as the editor for the New Castle High School newspaper, The Phoenix, where he started to learn about his career path. After graduating in 2016, he attended Ivy Tech Community College’s New Castle location as a general-studies student.

Sharp received an associate degree in general studies in 2018. He transferred his credits to Ball State University where he double majored in journalism and telecommunications, with a news concentration. He has worked in media since graduating in 2020 as a reporter, managing editor and, most recently, a news producer for WISH-TV.

He credits Ivy Tech’s professors with helping him improve his writing skills and making him a stronger journalist.

“I met professors at Ivy Tech that helped me hone my writing skills and open my mind creatively, making me a better storyteller once I got out into the workforce,” he said. “I specifically would like to credit Ellen Shelton, Stephanie Webster and Rena Dossett for challenging me and helping me become a better writer and more creative person.”

These professors helped him develop his creativity so that he could craft engaging news and feature articles while maintaining the

factual elements to entice readers.

“If they enjoy what they read, they are more likely to pick up a paper the next day as well,” Sharp said. “Creative writing classes at the Ivy Tech in New Castle have helped me look for ways to keep the stories I write fresh and entertaining while also being informative and newsworthy.”

Following his dream of working in media, Sharp understands the need to make connections. While attending Ivy Tech and Ball State, he networked and developed professional connections that assisted him in getting his first job out of college at the Chronicle-Tribune in Marion, Indiana, as a reporter.

As a news producer, Sharp will be tasked with taking over a show and will be responsible for gathering stories, writing scripts, formatting the show, create on-screen graphics, controlling the cameras while the show is live, timing the show, and ensuring that everything runs smoothly, to create the best statewide news show possible. All his experience in media has prepared him for this challenge.

will likely be important connections in your journey as a professional. Join organizations, make friends, take on extracurricular projects. It all helps in meeting new people and making meaningful connections.”

Ivy Tech Muncie-Henry County can help you achieve your dream too. Earning your associate degree in general studies or a specialized field allows you to transfer your college credit and earn your bachelor’s degree for less at a four-year university.

TRIATHLON TRADITION

ANNUAL MUNCIE IRONMAN EVENT REPRESENTS 45 YEARS OF ATHLETIC EXCELLENCE

The first Muncie Endurathon was a small gathering of 50 athletes and a crew of volunteers, gathered at Prairie Creek Reservoir to attempt a 70.3-mile triathlon - one of the first privately organized efforts of the kind.

Triathlon was a brand-new sport, with the very first swim-bike-run event organized in San Diego in 1974. The sport gained tremendous popularity for its challenging multi-sport format, and the first IRONMAN event was born in 1978, soon to become one of the most iconic races in history.

Muncie’s Endurathon was organized in 1980, and by 2009 it was the second-oldest triathlon event in the world, second only to the first IRONMAN. In 2012 the event was purchased by IRONMAN, and has remained a favorite race among triathletes.

Today the race continues to bring back returning athletes, and inspire new participants with dreams of becoming an IRONMAN. Eric Small, a police officer for the City of Muncie, has worked security for the event for years, and gained an appreciation for how physically

demanding the event is. After several attempts to put together a relay team, he finally decided to train in all three disciplines and compete in July’s historic 45th anniversary race.

“The hardest part is finding time to train,” Small said regarding the difficulty of balancing work and family with training for three different sports at once. “My wife, Suzanne, has been my rock.” His goal for this year is to successfully finish the race, and then train for a full 140.6-mile IRONMAN in the future.

Training for the 70.3-mile race can be a grueling process, with many athletes training more than once per day. The 1.2-mile swim is especially challenging. In addition to building the stamina to swim more than a mile without stopping, athletes must navigate an open-water course with hundreds of other swimmers. Frequently, athletes will zigzag off course and add extra distance, or be accidentally kicked by other swimmers.

Following the swim, participants run up a steep slope off the beach and strap on their helmets for a 56-mile bike race through

Delaware and Randolph counties. Volunteers are waiting at aid stations every five to 10 miles to hand off Gatorade, bananas and other fuel to keep the athletes going. The average athlete can burn 4,000 to 5,000 calories during the race, so they must keep taking on carbs and fluids to keep their muscles functioning. Many endurance athletes have horror stories of running out of glycogen, or “bonking,” during a race or a long training session.

The final leg of the race is a half marathon. Many riders feel relieved to get to stretch their legs after up to four hours on a bike, but the run course is a challenging one. There is very little shade to protect from the July sun, and there are many rolling hills through the 13.1-mile course. Spectators cheer on the exhausted athletes, and volunteers hand out ice and water every mile.

Athletes are given eight and a half hours from the time they enter the water to complete the race. Crossing the finish line is often an emotional experience, especially for first-time racers who have envisioned the moment throughout months of training. The announcer reads each athlete’s name as they cross the line, followed by “You are an IRONMAN!” - a title that less than 1% of the world can claim.

ON THE RIGHT COURSE

BECOME A COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKER IN EIGHT WEEKS WITH IVY TECH MUNCIE-HENRY COUNTY

Community health workers are the front line of community outreach initiatives. These individuals act as a link between health and social services, increasing knowledge and access for community residents. They serve the community through outreach, informal counseling, social support and advocacy.

This summer, Ivy Tech Muncie-Henry County will be offering an eight-week, in-person blended human services course that leads to becoming a certified community health worker. This certification is credentialed by the Indiana Community Health Workers Association, and anyone can sign up for the HUMS 162 course, including new

and current students. Classes began in early June.

The course can be completed as a standalone course. However, it also leads to more education in the field and can be used as an elective for other certificates such as the Mental Health Direct Support Certificate. It is an excellent choice for students who are interested in limited enrollment health science programs as well.

“This course is a great way to start a career,” said Melanie Wright, program chair for Human Services. “On successful completion, students earn the Indiana Community Health Worker Certification.

Community health workers are the link between the health care field and social services - a need we continue to see grow.”

“This certificate is a great way for our students to be successful in the workforce,” said Jennifer Gasiorek, vice chancellor for Workforce Partnerships. “It gives them a leg up and allows them to join health care in a way that supports and helps the communities they live in.”

To learn more about the HUMS 162 course, email askmuncie@ivytech.edu or visit online at ivytech.edu/muncie today.

SUMMER IN MUNCIE

S u m m e r i s f o r t h e K i d s

Sports Programs

The Parks Department has been busy with NFL Flag Football, Girls’ Softball, Basketball Clinic, Football Camp, and more! Lots of kids have gotten the opportunity to get involved with youth sports programs and receive coaching and mentorship.

Youth Employment

Unity Fest

AT CITY HALL

New Public Safety Officers

Eight new Police officers have sworn in since April, including two licensed Clinical Social Workers! 22 new firefighters swore into the Muncie Fire Department in June!

Touch a Truck

The third annual Touch a Truck took place on June 28! Community members got to enjoy free food and giveaways while interacting with heavy equipment from Public Works, the Police Department, Fire Department, Muncie Sanitary, and more.

There are concerts, arts walks, shows, live music, trivia, film screenings, and more all summer long in beautiful Downtown Muncie!

MUNCIE: THE PLACE TO BE

Ironman 70.3 on July 13

Make My Move

remote worker program: More than 50 families with remote jobs have moved to Muncie! 45th Annual

Resources for new entrepreneurs and small businesses

Thriving arts and culture scene

More than 30 parks

Major paving projects on McGalliard, Tillotson, Jackson, and Main!

Free Beach and Education Center at Prairie Creek Reservoir

JULY CROSSWORD PUZZLE

DOWN

1. Appreciation

2. Brushes (off)

3. Cavorts

4. Straight

5. Wild African canine

ACROSS

1. Proffered

5. Jest

6. Eventuated 10. Was obliged to pay

Ship’s spine 12. Lump of turf

Water 14. Door handle 15. Muslim temple

16. Dance nightclubs 17. Painters’ tripods

Stick (to)

Loved excessively,

on 20. Prejudiced person

7. A long time

8. Remarkable events 9. Refreshments booths 12. Pursued stealthily

Bewildered

Sponged

Swiftest

Open mouth wide 23. Poultry products

Calming drug

AROUND THE COMMUNITY, 2024

FRIDAYS

Outdoor Farm and Artisan Market

Come shop from over 50 farm, food and artisan vendors, enjoy live music from local musicians, and grab dinner from one of our featured food trucks. 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Morrow’s Meadow Park, Yorktown. yorktownmarketplace.com

SATURDAYS

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. 9 a.m. to noon. Minnetrista Museum and Gardens. minnetrista.net

4

FIREWORKS ON THE LEVEE

Experience a live fireworks show from the grounds of Muncie Central High School, synchronized to music from DWNTWN at dusk. downtownmuncie.org

6

CARS AND COFFEE

All years, makes, and models welcome. Free admission. Cruise in, hang out, talk cars, drink coffee. Events are located in the bank parking lot across from The Caffeinery. Enter the lot from Charles Street. First Saturday of every month through November. Presented by Muncie Volkswagen Club. 9 a.m. to noon.

8-20

DELAWARE COUNTY FAIR

The annual 4-H fair, rides, live entertainment and much more. Delaware County Fairgrounds. Prices vary. delawarecountyfair.net

11

FIRST THURSDAY (ON THE SECOND THURSDAY!)

Watch and learn from local artists as they perform their crafts. Support community artisans and shops as you explore the DWNTWN community. 5 p.m to 8 p.m. downtownmuncie.org

IRONMAN WEEKEND: FREE CONCERT WITH DAVE BENNETT QUARTET

The Dave Bennett Quartet presents an intense and emotional musical experience. Bennett and his band perform hard-driving swing, rockabilly, jazz, pop, gospel and original songs. Listeners will recognize the influences of Benny Goodman, Pete Fountain, Jerry Lee Lewis, The Beatles, Chris Isaak, Peter Gabriel and Phil Collins. Naptown Hepcats will open the show with their unique rockabilly sound, paying tribute to Brian Setzer and Stray Cats. 8 p.m. downtownmuncie.org

12

DOUBLE FEATURE: AN EVENING WITH AUTHORS KEITH ROYSDON AND JILL BLOCKER

Join us for a captivating evening featuring award-winning writer, researcher and editor Keith Roysdon, alongside esteemed author and former journalist Jill Blocker. Together they will engage in a compelling discussion about their latest works and offer insights into their unique perspectives. Free. 6 p.m. E.B. and Bertha C. Ball Center. bsu.edu/ ebball

IRONMAN WEEKEND: FAMILY PICNIC IN THE PARK

Bring the family to Canan Commons for an evening of food and games, complete with a movie and popcorn! Engage in a friendly challenge with some yard games, enjoy cuisine from local food trucks from 6 p.m. to 9 pm, and be entertained by an outdoor screening of “Breaking Away” at 8 pm. Event runs 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. downtownmuncie.org

12, 19

“OUR NIGHT SKY”

PLANETARIUM SHOW

People often peer into the darkness of the night sky and wonder, “What is out there?” Seemingly dark regions of space are actually filled with nebulae, star clusters and other galaxies. Come learn how to navigate the sky. Free. 5 p.m. Charles W. Brown Planetarium. bsu.edu/planetarium

13

LEGO PRINTMAKING

Create your own custom print artwork using LEGO creations. 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Madjax Maker Force. Registration required. madjax. com

IRONMAN 70.3 MUNCIE

Annual triathlon in Muncie. 7 a.m. The event begins with a 1.2-mile swim in beautiful and historic Prairie Creek Reservoir, followed by a very fast out-and-back bike course, with 56 miles of closed state highways and country roads that wind through rural Delaware and Henry counties. Once off the bike, athletes are treated to a competitive 13.1-mile run around the south side of Prairie Creek Reservoir.

13-14, 19-20

“BIRTH OF PLANET EARTH”

PLANETARIUM SHOW

How did Earth come to be a life-supporting planet? Where did our moon come from? What does Earth’s history tell us about our chances of finding other worlds that are truly Earth-like? This show tells the twisted tale. Free. 6:30 p.m. Charles W. Brown Planetarium. bsu.edu/planetarium

13, 20

“MAGIC TREE HOUSE: SPACE MISSION” PLANETARIUM SHOW

Travel with Jack and Annie, stars of the “Magic Tree House”® best-selling children’s book series, as they search for answers to a mysterious riddle they discover in a written note signed “-M.” Free. 3:30 p.m. Charles W. Brown Planetarium. bsu.edu/planetarium

“ASTRONAUT” PLANETARIUM SHOW

The exploration of space is the greatest endeavor that humankind has ever undertaken. What does it take to be part of this incredible journey? What does it take to become an astronaut? Free. 5 p.m. Charles W. Brown Planetarium. bsu.edu/planetarium

25-27

FAERIES, SPRITES

& LIGHTS

During this multi-day event, children are encouraged to come dressed in their best magical faerie attire as they imagine and play in a magical faerie wonderland. Families can enjoy games, crafts, a theater show, live music and dancing, a bubble garden, and much more throughout our enchanted Oakhurst gardens. Minnetrista Museum & Gardens. minnetrista.net

27

MUNCIE THREE TRAILS MUSIC SERIES

Revered Peyton’s Big Damn Band will be the featured performer at the first Muncie Three Trails Music Series concert of 2023. The Reverend, a Hoosier native, is considered to be one of the best country-blues guitarists working today. Free. Canan Commons. munciethreetrails.com minnetrista.net

7/26

7/27

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED