Muncie Magazine January 2025 by Towne Post Network, Inc.

SERVING DELAWARE COUNTY

HEROIC HELPERS

BREE HILL IS THE THE FACE OF SENIOR HELPERS OF EAST CENTRAL INDIANA

ROBBINS craig@townepost.com (765) 744-6644

WARM WINTER STEAK & POTATO SOUP

Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 40 mins

Total Time 55 mins

Servings 6

INGREDIENTS

• 1 pound beef (sirloin steak, chuck roast, beef stew)

• 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 pound russet potatoes, diced

• 1 tablespoon all purpose flour

• 3 cup chicken stock

• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

• 3/4 cup heavy cream

• Salt & Pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

1. To start, you’re going to need a large pot. Prep all the ingredients. Note, Avoid dicing potatoes chucks too large.

2. In a pot on medium high heat add a little oil. Then, place in chunks of steak and sear the sides. Sear one or two sides then go to the next step.

3. Add in the diced onion and a little oil. If you notice the bottom of the pot starting to burn, lower the heat. Once the onions become translucent toss in the minced garlic.

4. Cook the garlic until you can smell it coming from the pot. Now, toss in the diced potatoes and season everything with salt and black pepper. Cook everything together for about one minute before adding in the flour. Now, cook the flour for another minute to avoid a raw taste.

5. Pour in the chicken stock just under the top of the ingredients. Do not try to submerge the ingredients. Bring the soup to a simmer then cover for 30 minutes.

6. After 30 minutes remove the soup from the heat. Add in the heavy cream and shredded cheese then mix.

7. Lastly, taste for seasoning before serving & enjoy!

HEROIC HELPERS

BREE HILL IS THE THE FACE OF SENIOR HELPERS OF EAST CENTRAL INDIANA

Writer / Alyson Madsen

You won’t find anyone more passionate about her work than Bree Hill, who wasn’t always so sure about what she wanted to be when she grew up.

Growing up in Gaston after moving to Indiana from Colorado at age 7, Hill explored a few different life options early on. Working at a Thai restaurant in high school, she became general manager soon after graduation, helping to open another franchise in Fishers.

“I loved being in the service industry and making people smile,” said Hill, who saved enough money to purchase her first home at age 18. “Life was good.”

But she said one day, an epiphany “hit her like a ton of bricks.” She would seek work as a nurse on a burn unit. Having endured a home fire at age 11 when she experienced burns on over 40% of her body, Hill had always revered the nurses who treated her.

“They provided so much love, support and comfort while I lay in that hospital bed,” recalled Hill. “I wanted to change the world by delivering the same compassionate, kind and impactful care to others like me. My experience helped shape who I am today and made me realize all of life’s blessings.”

She began her health care journey by obtaining her certified nurse aide license in 2013, gaining employment at Morrison Woods Health Campus. Soon enrolling in Ivy Tech’s nursing program, she earned her licensed practical nurse license just two years later, working as a floor nurse at the same facility. Hill’s daughter, Charleigh, was born during this busy time.

In 2019 Hill became Dr. Mohammad Bahrami’s assistant for the next three years.

“He joked that I was his left and right hand,” said Hill, adding that she learned more from him than any classroom.

A DREAM VENTURE

After Hill left Morrison Woods, she and Charleigh’s father, Sam Harris, discussed becoming business partners, tossing around the idea of investing in a butcher chop, marina or flea market.

When a 15-year-old home care agency went on the market, it just felt right for them.

“This was our opportunity to make an impact on our community’s beloved seniors,” said Hill, who is a Muncie resident.

Within a few days, the new business partners signed on the dotted line and became the owners of Senior Helpers of East Central Indiana, an acquisition Hill has found enormously rewarding.

“I love coming to work,” said Hill, whose Pendleton headquarters is comprised of nine staff, including herself, and 190

caregivers serving 17 counties including Delaware, Madison, Jay, Grant, and Hancock.

Marta Guinn, marketing director for Senior Helpers, realizes that Hill is not your typical business owner.

“No matter her title, she is a nurse through and through,” said Guinn. “She doesn’t hesitate to aid a client with any issue if a caregiver isn’t available.” Nonclinical services include everything from bathing and incontinence to housekeeping, shopping and meal prep.

An exciting new assessment on the horizon, according to Hill, is Life Profile, which identifies client risk of hospitalization over the next six months. Proprietary to Senior Helpers, this tool is backed by over 20 years of data-driven research, and is completed in the field by Charissa Dabney, a nurse with over 26 years in the health care industry.

Best practices are the hallmark of Senior Helpers, and Hill is the impetus to ensure the company meets the highest standards. A case in point is the company’s on-site center of excellence, which replicates a client’s home, helping prospective caregivers in identifying risk factors, among other important tasks such as treating Parkinson’s disease or dementia.

A WORTHY VISION

Running a company that is part of a global franchise comes naturally for Hill, whose vision for her company is to provide quality service to every community including Muncie.

“Whether our clients are Medicaid Waiver, VA related, long-term health insurance recipients, or private pay, our goal is to help clients age in place as safely and as long as possible, in their home or in a family member’s,” Hill said. “I leave my clients’ homes and my office daily considering how blessed I am. Senior Helpers is the air I breathe. I relish being the proud boss lady of over 190 employees!”

Senior Helpers was included in Fortune

Magazine’s Best Places to Work for 2023 in the Aging Services category, and was given the Spirit of Small Business Award for the Yorktown Chamber of Commerce in 2024.

In 2024 Hill herself was nominated for the Greater Muncie Chamber of Commerce Spirit Award, along with the Athena Young Professional Award, hosted by Women in Business Unlimited.

As far as giving back, that’s a given for this powerhouse.

Hill has been involved in the Walk to End Alzheimers, YWCA, Youth Symphony Orchestra, Dog Tags and Go Bags, Rock Steady Boxing, Secret Families of Madison County, Operation ShoeBox, Toys for Tots, and more.

“You change lives by giving back,” said Hill. “When we show our shining selves, we illuminate those around us. Show your soul and it will light the way. Embrace your life, befriend yourself and tell your own story.”

CIRCLE OF IVY AWARDS MORE THAN $6,000 TO MUNCIE/HENRY COUNTY CAMPUS

ircle of Ivy, the women’s philanthropy arm of the Ivy Tech Foundation, raised more than $6,000 to support programs and students at Ivy Tech Muncie/Henry County.

The campus is one of 19 across the state to receive Circle funding, and the proceeds will go to two areas with direct benefits for students, including Rudi’s Success Nest, which offers a food pantry, a business clothing closet, and hygiene supplies for students in need, as well as Campus Canvas, a project to transform the student space into a vibrant and inclusive community hub.

Since its inception in 2015, Circle of Ivy has raised more than $1.4 million statewide across Ivy Tech’s 19 campuses.

The Women’s Philanthropy Circle works to diminish barriers to higher education for Hoosiers. “The funding from Circle of Ivy will have a meaningful, long-lasting impact on our students and our community,” said Qiana Clemens, vice chancellor for academic and resource development at Ivy Tech Muncie/Henry County. “Many of our students are the first in their families to attend college, and the generosity of Circle of Ivy will allow more of them to excel and adequately prepare for their careers. These opportunities make Indiana and our community stronger.”

IN THE PAST, CIRCLE OF IVY HAS HELPED FUND PROJECTS TO:

Send students abroad for continued education Provide necessary instructional materials, textbooks and classroom technology Help students with emergency needs Aid local community needs through a food pantry, providing vision care and eyeglasses, and creating a lending library

“The commitment of the women who make up Circle of Ivy should be inspiring to everyone associated with Ivy Tech,” said Courtney Roberts, president of the Ivy Tech Foundation. “I am personally proud to be part of an organization that does so much good for our students - the future leaders of our communities. Ivy Tech is integral to Indiana’s success story, and the commitment and generosity of women who belong to Circle of Ivy help make it happen.”

Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana’s largest postsecondary institution and workforce engine. Circle of Ivy builds opportunities and diminishes barriers to higher education by raising funds to help with emergency needs, sending students abroad for educational opportunities, and providing instructional support with classroom technology, textbooks and other critical programs.

To learn more about Circle of Ivy, visit ivytech.edu/circleofivy.

DEALING WITH DEMENTIA

KEEPING THE BEST IN MIND FOR THOSE WITH ALZHEIMER’S AND OTHER TYPES OF DEMENTIA

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photographer / Ethan Snyder

Let’s face it - we’ve all experienced that moment of walking into a room, then scratching our heads as we contemplate the purpose for entering said room. There’s forgetfulness, brain fog and scatterbrain due to stress, lack of sleep, hormonal changes and more.

Dementia, however, is different. It’s characterized by a range of symptoms associated with cognitive decline that interferes with a person’s ability to think, function and socialize. As a result, everyday activities can become challenging.

It’s not unusual for the public to interchange the term “dementia” with “Alzheimer’s”, but in reality, Alzheimer’s is a type (and the most common form) of dementia. The Alzheimer’s Association reports that more than 121,000 Hoosiers aged 65 and older have Alzheimer’s (this doesn’t include those with other types of dementia such as Lewy body, frontotemporal, vascular, Huntington’s and more). According to Jenny Hamilton, president and CEO for LifeStream Services, several factors can cause issues in the brain that lead to dementia.

“Some people may have dementia after a stroke,” says Hamilton. “Others may have alcohol-induced dementia if they have long-

term alcoholism issues.”

Although there is no cure, new medications are emerging, with Eli Lilly leading the way in dementia research.

LifeStream Services is a nationally accredited nonprofit that’s been around since 1975. They offer early screening for those starting to experience increased forgetfulness.

“Some people think nothing can be done, so they are reluctant to admit they’re having issues,” Hamilton says. “But the sooner you look at it, the sooner some of these interventions, i.e., medicines, could be used, which may slow the progress.”

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, an early diagnosis can improve quality of life, increase access to care and reduce financial impact.

LifeStream offers a variety of programs and services to help older adults and those with disabilities who are at risk of losing their independence. One core program they offer centers around nutrition.

“So many older people are isolated in their homes; we provide those 60 and over with a

meal and socialization,” says Hamilton, who notes that the Older Americans Act defines older adults as those who are 60 years and up.

LifeStream also offers transportation services, support services that help people with services at home, as well as care management, for which they go to people’s homes to assess the services they receive and determine if, in fact, they are the right services.

“Between information assistance and care management, we have what we call our options counselors who explain things like veterans’ benefits and Medicare versus Medicaid,” Hamilton says. “We also explain the difference between a home health aide and attending care. We help people navigate the options that are available to them.”

LifeStream also provides State Health Insurance Assistance Program counseling through which they help people save money by reviewing their prescription drug plans during open enrollment.

“Even if you’re getting ready to turn 65, we can help you pick a plan that best meets your needs,” Hamilton says.

Last year LifeStream fielded more than 10,000

calls for information and assistance, and arranged more than 375,000 hours of inhome care. In addition, they did 40,000-plus transportation trips and provided 250,000plus meals.

LifeStream offers fall prevention programs at various locations such as senior centers and housing sites. In 2000 a caregiver’s support program was added to the Older Americans Act so LifeStream assists caregivers who live with individuals with dementia, because that environment can be taxing, tiring and overwhelming.

Through a federal grant, LifeStream is currently partnering with the IU School of Medicine to offer a dementia care coaching program. It involves trained LifeStream care coaches who work with caregivers of individuals living with dementia.

“We help do evidence-based intervention to reduce their stress scores by providing respite care,” Hamilton says. “In doing so, the

caregiver can feel better so they can continue taking care of their loved one while not depleting their own resources.”

LifeStream offers a one-hour training called Dementia Friends that aims to build awareness and lessen stigmas surrounding dementia, by teaching how to properly interact with a person with dementia. For example, unless you have been around someone with dementia, you may not know that it takes longer for them to form speech or think of words. Therefore, when communicating with someone with dementia, you should give them longer to respond.

Yorktown committed to becoming a dementia-friendly community by having folks in town - particularly businesses and emergency personnel - take the training.

Hamilton notes that the end goal of this training is to get people out into the community, living life.

“When people have dementia, both they and their caregivers end up staying home in isolation,” Hamilton says. “In a dementiafriendly town, however, they can go into a restaurant or business and the people working there will be much more understanding.”

LifeStream Services is located at 1701 Pilgrim Boulevard in Yorktown. To learn more about LifeStream, call 800-5891121 or visit lifestreaminc.org. For more information about Dementia Friends, visit dementiafriendsindiana.org.

A NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION GUIDE

Writer / Devon Dean

“I am gonna make it through this year if it kills me.” -The Mountain Goats, “This Year”

2024 is in the history books, and we’re now collectively bundled up and ready to tackle 2025. Each time the ball drops in Times Square and people uncork the Korbel, it’s a chance to reset the balance and state some good intentions for the next 365 days.

A recent study by the American Psychiatric Association showed some 76% of adults in the U.S. will make resolutions this year, and more than a quarter of these (28%) are focused on mental health, with many of us setting our sights on improving wellness through both mental and physical/habit changes:

Dr. Anne Mary Montero is a licensed clinical psychologist and director of behavioral health at IU Health North. She says change can be elusive, particularly when it comes to lifestyle.

“Certainly, there are excellent mental health benefits to setting and achieving goals for change toward wellness, but it is helpful to anchor goals in a few ways to maximize both the psychological benefits, and to minimize risk, including if we don’t achieve everything we set out to do,” she says. “Psychological risks to goals that are unrealistic or too harsh can be demoralizing and even lead to anxiety or depression, but envisioning change, and being motivated to try, is the first step toward mental health support for yourself, helping you see the change you want to create with your resolution.”

plan to exercise more.

plan to meditate.

plan to focus on spirituality.

plan to see a therapist.

plan to take a break from social media.

plan to journal.

plan to use a mental health app.

plan to try something else

GOAL-SETTING STRATEGIES

Keep goals anchored in values. What is most important to you will help you stay motivated when initial enthusiasm may wane, and the impact of achieving your goal will mean the most to you when you reach it.

Stay positive with a healthy balance of discipline and self-compassion; even the most driven people benefit from grace, and you can support yourself best if you stay in a positive frame of mind. In fact, studies of happiness show that we are not only in a better mood, but we are actually more productive and effective when we keep a positive outlook. Also, keep in mind that self-care is critical, particularly with winter in full swing.

Consider counting steps. A large goal can be less overwhelming if broken into components or sequential steps, even micro steps, toward change. While it’s healthy to dream, we want to set our sights on a balance of vision and achievability to keep positive success realistic and within our reach.

Write goals and progress down. You will not only keep yourself

accountable, which usually serves to help with motivation, but you can count steps toward progress that support and reinforce the excellent impact your efforts can have.

“Another critical strategy can be to ask for help,” Montero says. “Telling your plans to someone who cares about you and asking for a regular check-in about this can serve both as an accountability check and a built-in reminder.”

Montero’s final piece of advice is to use positive self-talk. She says reminding yourself of your power and emphasizing your progress can be especially powerful. “You are the ultimate authority on what you are feeling and how you expect to move forward,” she says. “You are aware of your efforts against all the forces that challenge you, and you can uniquely and authoritatively acknowledge the good you have done.”

FOREVER FIT

PLENTY OF LOCAL EXERCISE OPTIONS CAN HELP SENIORS STAY FIT FOR LIFE

Writer / Alyson Madsen Photographer / Ethan Snyder

Where do active seniors in Muncie meet for fun, fitness and fellowship? The following are a few favorites.

THE NORTHWEST YMCA

A popular Muncie fixture for strength training, basketball, tennis and group exercise, the Northwest Y at 3500 North Chadam Lane has served the community for three decades.

Liz Whittern, a 20-year Y instructor, has taught everything from spinning to STEP. Several of her students have gone on to become certified fitness teachers themselves. Now 69, Whittern defies age due to consistent workouts such as biking, golf and pickleball. She currently teaches cardio strength at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays.

“I’m not too crazy about being in the senior fitness category,” said Whittern. “I have ladies in their 20s and up who take my class regularly. I think of it as ‘forever fit,’ which targets women of any age.”

Chris Ruh, a faithful member of Whittern’s class, admires her dedication and expertise.

“She makes the class challenging but fun,” said Ruh, who is in her 70s. “I take it so I can stay active and keep up with life.”

THE YORKTOWN YMCA

Located on South 600 West, the Yorktown Y is a convenient facility for the close-knit community and beyond.

One of its more popular classes is Zumba Gold, offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Its focus is older, active adults, between 50 and 90-plus. Sharon Kuzma has been teaching the class since 2009. A collegiate cheerleader who learned to play tennis and golf as an adult, Kuzma found Zumba an easy and exciting transition from her regular routine.

“The combination of fitness and dance made it a perfect blend,” said the energetic 70-year-old, who is a living testament to the mantra, “If you don’t use it, you lose it.”

Some class members have been with Kuzma for 14 years.

“My goal is to make the class welcoming, joyful and uplifting,” Kuzma

said. “The music, friendly atmosphere and fellowship encourage people to keep coming back. Deep friendships are forged, and people have expressed how much healthier they’ve become.”

Yorktown’s Zumba Gold participants revel in holidays such as Halloween, when they dress to the hilt and are offered treats after class.

The ebullient Kuzma has appeared as a Cheeto, She-Wolf, and Monarch butterfly.

“Sharon is what Zumba Gold is all about,” explained longtime class member Jeff Benson. “She is an inspiration to everyone who joins the class. During COVID she even found ways to get us all together, dancing - six feet apart, of course!”

MUNCIE YWCA

The YWCA, a longstanding Muncie institution, is located at 310 East Charles Street. It features an emergency shelter for women in addition to children’s advocacy, the “In Her Heels” Fundraiser, and the Twice as Nice resale boutique. The Y now also offers a line-dancing class taught by Michigan transplant Felecia Rice.

“It’s not necessarily a class per se,” said Rice, 59. “We do a lot of socializing, and if the ladies want to dance, we dance.”

Rice has been active her entire life, culminating in her current venture, Felecia TLC Catering. “I get lots of steps with that!” she said with a laugh.

Her business and dance class dovetail perfectly, with Rice providing a charcuterie board for each class, Mondays and Wednesdays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

“We have all ages,” explained Rice, who rotates the dances among hip-hop, country and R&B. “Everyone has input into what we do. If

someone is attending a wedding reception, we’ll focus on those dances.”

Carolyn Grieves is a faithful attendee. “I have made new friends through exercising,” she said. “I am laughing, having fun and relaxing.” Grieves’ sleep cycles have even improved.

Rice believes that moving as seniors is crucial to optimum health.

“As long as God gives me the strength in my body to move, “I’m going to move,” she said.

Cornerstone Center for the Arts

Cornerstone Center for the Arts, located at 520 East Main Street, offers education, workshops, dance, martial arts and ceramics programming for all ages. It’s also a coveted venue for entertainment options and celebrations such as weddings and graduation open houses.

Popular classes for all ages, including seniors, include hip-hop, jazz and ballet.

Former Central High School Latin teacher Hanna Waechter, 65, has studied dance on and off since age 7. She’s taken adult ballet for 10 years, meeting Mondays at 7 p.m. Class members include 20-somethings to seniors.

“I love it,” said Waechter. “It’s what I enjoy doing.”

Although she works out at the gym once a week, Waechter said she finds it “incredibly boring” compared to dance. “Our teacher, Juniper Violet, makes it fun and is great at adapting the class to different levels,” she said.

Waechter attends class with her daughter, Angela Dailey, and loves the bonding that occurs when they attend together.

“I look forward to the class every week,” said Waechter.

UNDERSTANDING THE IMPORTANCE OF ELDER LAW AND ESTATE PLANNING

Writer / Ted Baker

/ Chris Carroll

Two certainties in life are death and taxes. For the former, the concept of mortality tends to creep closer with age. As much as people don’t want to talk about it, they likely should do so prior to advanced age.

Waiting too long to make decisions for the future can have serious negative consequences. That is just one reason why advanced estate planning is so vital. No one wants to leave their children with various burdens when they pass away.

Finding an attorney specializing in elder law is a good place to start. Their legal expertise and guidance will help people understand the importance of creating advanced documents like advanced directives and estate documents.

“Elder law covers all aspects of planning, recommending, educating and supporting clients,” says Muncie attorney Leslie Mathewson. “It involves planning for aging, illness and incapacity. If no plan is in place, the legal system can determine what happens to you, your loved ones and your guardians when deciding legal, financial and health issues.”

ELDER CARE LAW IS BROKEN INTO SEVERAL DIFFERENT AREAS:

Estate Planning: This involves preparing for what happens to a person’s assets when they pass on or enter into an assisted-living

arrangement. Estate planning is something everyone should do to control their legacy, and it is not just for wealthy people. It’s for everyone. This can include asset protection, financial representation and planning, and lifetime planning. It can also extend to your belongings - maybe your grandchildren don’t want an antique hutch. Maybe they do. Estate planning can cover all of those decisions.

Health and Personal Care Planning: This includes powers of attorney, living wills, will and trust planning, and planning for a “well spouse” when the other spouse requires long-term care or assistance. Creating a will and a trust can be one of the most important parts of elderly care. A will allows a person to provide instructions on how to pass on the assets of an estate, and who should receive them. “Every adult should have a will, especially married adults with children,” Mathewson says. “Life and finances can get complicated, and forming a will allows your wishes and desires for your assets to be correctly distributed after death.”

Advanced Directives and Powers of Attorney: Incapacity can happen to people at any age. It occurs when a physical or mental illness or injury prevents a person from managing their affairs. A variety of elder law rules apply to incapacity planning as well. Some laws allow a person to give another person durable power of attorney to control assets, or health care power of attorney so that person can make the appropriate health care

decisions if needed. A living will also falls into this category, specifying what medical treatments will be accepted or declined. This is extremely important because no one wants to put family members in an impossible situation to make tough choices about medical treatment, or leave life-and-death issues to chance.

Health Insurance Issues - Medicare and Medicaid Planning: Mathewson says this is vital. “An elder care attorney can assist your options to get the needed coverage,” she says. “Medicare and Medicaid are important for those 65 and older. While much is written and advertised about these plans, dealing with each can be complicated, especially when dealing with elderly family members and where services will be needed.”

Mathewson says these steps can alleviate stress on family members when the time comes. “By properly planning and preparing, the focus can be on the loved one and not on all the issues during this time,” she explains. “This subject is not just for the old, but for the young too, and not just for the rich, but for all economic situations. Everyone should be a participant.”

Elder law attorneys and professionals are available to assist with whatever needs may arise. It can be one of the best investments a person can make.

Photographer

CELLAR SAVVY

TONNE WINERY PROVIDES A COMMUNITY HUB FOR MUSIC, CRAFTING AND WINE APPRECIATION

As you’re thinking of ways to support local businesses and enjoy the season - whichever season that might be in 2025 - Tonne Winery on West Royerton Road has welcomed new and old visitors since 2009.

“I was born in Muncie and lived in Muncie my whole life, so the community is important to me,” said Co-owner Sara Rogers, who runs the winery with her husband, Tom Rogers. “I’ve been involved in a lot of different areas. I was an educator for several years, I’ve been in athletics, and now with the winery.”

“It is a hub for people to gather and meet,” she added. “We’re providing a venue for people

to come, and we’re trying to provide different opportunities for them to gather together, to bring friends, to bring family, and for us to get to know them. We feel like we’re the host, and we let people create their own experiences depending on the kinds of events we’re offering.”

To support the community that supports them, the Rogerses provide a variety of events, from crafting classes to live music to catered dinners to wine pairings.

This winter, while not yet finalized as of publication, the winery will host local musicians on Saturday nights indoors in

January. The owners encourage anyone to swing by to check out the 25 wine selections, and enjoy some time warming up by the fireplace all week long (the winery is open every day of the week).

The winery always has limited food options, including charcuterie and desserts, and the team is planning to expand the limited menu in early 2025. They also schedule pairings classes with wine and cheese or wine and chocolate, plus they host brunches throughout the year. However, the catered meals are focused on special events such as holidays, and details will soon be released for a Valentine’s Day catered dinner.

Writer / Rebecca Berfanger

Photographer / Chris Carroll

Keep an eye on their website and social media for these events. Starting in mid to late April, the live music series will be announced, to take place starting in the beginning of June through end of September on Fridays and Saturdays.

“We’ll host about 34 shows through the summer,” Sara said. “That is definitely something that has grown and evolved over the last two or three years. Since COVID the outdoor music experience has really exploded, and we have a good setup for that. People can come and spread out and bring their family and friends.”

At the winery, she said, audiences can enjoy the outdoors. It’s a family-friendly environment, parking is free, and people can bring their dogs on leashes to be part of the festivities.

“This has really turned into a pretty unique atmosphere and community experience,” Sara said. “It’s an easy way for couples, families or groups of friends to come and listen to music, and be outside and have good wine.”

As they’ve been building the music schedule, Sara and Tom acknowledged they are seeking a variety of musical types including bluegrass, pop, country and classic rock. Some are tribute bands and some play original songs. They are also focused on keeping it local.

“Because we’re so community oriented around Delaware County and the Muncie area, we strive to support local music,” Tom said. “We could bring in bigger bands from other cities and towns, but we believe that there is some great music here locally. We want to support and highlight those performers in our community.”

While the summer concert series might be the crown jewel of their annual events, the winery also hosts monthly craft nights yearround with local partners.

“We get to know people really well because they’re returning customers week after week after week,” Sara said. “We have people who are very loyal to any painting or crafting class that we have.” She expects they’ll continue regular creative events, where guests can enjoy a glass of wine and order a charcuterie tray

while working on a new project for their own home or as a gift.

For instance, Pulp and Pine of Anderson regularly brings their DIY adult (18 and over) craft nights to Tonne Winery. Most recently, they shared more than 20 projects guests could choose as part of their registration.

Another regular, Alt Candle Company of Yorktown, offers candle pouring workshops for adults. Guests can create two custom candles by blending scents and choosing a style of vessel. Candles can be picked up at the winery during normal business hours after they’ve had time to cool.

In addition, Made in Muncie Pottery is expected to be back in 2025 with various pottery painting parties. In warmer months, Sara added, they plan to host outdoor yoga and wine events.

For all of the above, prices vary based on the host of the event, but all of them come with a sense of camaraderie and relaxation, said Sara. They are also promoted on Tonne Winery’s social media, and the social media for each of the hosts.

The owners also highlighted their event room, available to rent for celebrations yearround, such as birthdays, bridal showers, off-site work retreats and meetings, and other gatherings. They also highlighted the winery as a space for remote workers looking for a change of scenery from home offices.

“As many events as we try to host and we try to offer, there’s a component to the winery for you to come in and escape, whether it’s our outdoors patio area or indoors by the

fireplace, where a couple or a group can just come and gather quietly and get away,” said Tom. “We have a very unique venue if you want to watch the sun go down, or if you want to snuggle up by the fireplace.”

“We try to offer a few events each month, but we’re open seven days a week; come in any day for a tasting,” Sara added. “Often in those winter colder months, we want people to see us on a random Tuesday, but not just for an event. It’s a warm and welcoming space. We’re here for a girls’ night, or for a group of guys or families or a date night.”

Also, don’t forget the wine.

“We have 25 different wines,” Tom said. “Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just stepping into the wine world, we have a wine for you. We are highly confident we’ll be able to find something that will fit your palate.”

They added that they will add new wines seasonally, each with its own special events, with bottles available, sometimes as limited releases.

“On non-event days when people come in, those are the days we get to make connections,” Sara said. “It’s hard if we have 500 people for music events to meet each individual who comes in. We do love the weekdays when people come in and we get to spend more time with them.”

“We’re very relationship oriented here at Tonne,” Tom added. “You could come in as a first time visitor but leave as a friend.”

To learn more, go to tonnewinery.com.

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2024 was a year of continued progress for Muncie. Together let’s make 2025 just as great!

-Muncie Mayor Dan Ridenour

In 2024 Muncie experienced a year of impressive growth and development, highlighted by significant infrastructure and community improvements. From roads to parks, housing to business and everything in between, 2024 was a year of vibrant progress in this city we call home.

2024 in review

The city invested heavily in its roads, completing over 10 miles of in-house paving to enhance transportation and accessibility for residents. The housing market also saw a boost, with over 400 new homes and apartments being constructed, meeting the growing demand for housing in the area.

Muncie’s commitment to improving public spaces was evident with the completion of one entirely new park and updates to others, providing residents with more recreational opportunities and green spaces for outdoor activities.

Muncie’s economy flourished as well, with dozens of new businesses opening throughout the year, contributing to job creation and local growth. One of the most anticipated projects breaking ground was a state-of-the-art fire station, set to provide enhanced emergency services and safety for first responders and the community.

These developments, alongside many other ongoing improvements, highlight Muncie’s dedication to fostering a vibrant, thriving city. The progress made in 2024 has positioned Muncie for continued success in the years to come, offering a higher quality of life and new opportunities for its residents. HERE’S TO A GREAT 2025!

AROUND THE COMMUNITY, 2025

JANUARY

Submit Your Events!

FIRST THURSDAY GALLERY WALK

DOWNTOWN, 120 W CHARLES ST.

6 AM - 8 PM downtownmuncie.org

BALL STATE UNIVERSITY

CARDINALS WOMEN’S

BASKETBALL VS. CENTRAL MICHIGAN CHIPPEWAS

JOHN E. WORTHEN ARENA, BETHEL AVE. & MCKINLEY AVE.

1 PM

BALL STATE UNIVERSITY

CARDINALS MEN’S

BASKETBALL VS. MIAMI UNIVERSITY (OHIO) REDHAWKS

JOHN E. WORTHEN ARENA, BETHEL AVE. & MCKINLEY AVE.

1 PM

BALL STATE UNIVERSITY CARDINALS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL VS. EASTERN MICHIGAN EAGLES

JOHN E. WORTHEN ARENA, BETHEL AVE. & MCKINLEY AVE.

6:30 PM

BALL STATE UNIVERSITY CARDINALS MEN’S BASKETBALL VS. BOWLING GREEN FALCONS

JOHN E. WORTHEN ARENA, BETHEL AVE. & MCKINLEY AVE. 6:30 PM

“THE KID” STARRING CHARLIE CHAPLIN WITH LIVE ACCOMPANIMENT ON THE PAGE ORGAN

PARAMOUNT THEATRE, 1124 MERIDIAN PLAZA 7:30PM

MISSY RAINES & ALLEGHENY AT PRUIS HALL

EMENS AUDITORIUM, 1800 W. RIVERSIDE AVE. Missy Raines is a trailblazer in bluegrass music. 7:30 PM

HOTEL CALIFORNIA - A SALUTE TO THE EAGLES

PARAMOUNT THEATRE, 1124 MERIDIAN PLAZA

7:30 - 11:30 PM

A spirited blend of originality and the pursuit of excellence has taken Hotel California - A Salute to the Eagles to a recognition normally reserved for gold and platinum recording artists. andersonparamount.org

BALL STATE UNIVERSITY

CARDINALS MEN’S BASKETBALL VS. TOLEDO ROCKETS

JOHN E. WORTHEN ARENA, BETHEL AVE. & MCKINLEY AVE. 1 PM

BALL STATE UNIVERSITY

CARDINALS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL VS. AKRON ZIPS

JOHN E. WORTHEN ARENA, BETHEL AVE. & MCKINLEY AVE. 1PM

68TH ANNUAL MUNCIE COIN & STAMP CLUB SHOW

DELAWARE COUNTY FAIR, 1210 N. WHEELING AVE. Forty-plus dealers, free admission, coins, stamps and tokens. coin-dealer-directory.money.org

BALL STATE UNIVERSITY

CARDINALS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL VS. TOLEDO ROCKETS

JOHN E. WORTHEN ARENA, BETHEL AVE. & MCKINLEY AVE. 6:30PM

BALL STATE UNIVERSITY

CARDINALS MEN’S BASKETBALL VS. WESTERN MICHIGAN BRONCOS

JOHN E. WORTHEN ARENA, BETHEL AVE. & MCKINLEY AVE. 6 PM

THUNDERSTRUCK

PARAMOUNT THEATRE, 1124 MERIDIAN PLAZA 7:30 PM

BOILER UP

WYOMING DISTILLERY RELEASES PURDUE-THEMED BOURBON

Writer / Devon Dean

Brush Creek Distillery, a Wyoming-based smallbatch distillery with deep Purdue ties, is releasing a new straight bourbon whiskey in partnership with the Purdue for Life Foundation.

Founded by prominent Purdue alumni Bruce and Beth White in 2010, Brush Creek Distillery is part of Brush Creek Ranch, a luxury ranch in Saratoga, Wyoming. The release of this bourbon reflects the White family’s continued dedication to Purdue

University. Bruce White served as a Purdue trustee from 2011 to 2015 and made significant contributions to the school. Although Bruce White passed away in early 2023, this bourbon honors his legacy and passion for his alma mater.

“We are thrilled to unveil this special-release whiskey with Purdue for Life, and to support the organization’s ongoing efforts to engage alumni and strengthen the community,” says Distillery Managing Director Andrew Wason. “Inspired by fellow Boilermakers, this whiskey combines innovation and sustainability to deliver a strikingly bold spirit, layered with rich flavors and a lingering finish.”

As another nod to Purdue, the straight bourbon whiskey was derived from nine different distillates in Indiana, all aged seven years. “The multiple mash bills include a high rye bourbon blended with a wheat bourbon,” Wason explains. “The aroma and taste will appeal beyond whiskey aficionados to a much wider audience.”

True to its Boilermaker spirit, the bourbon is crafted with meticulous care. Here’s what you can expect in each sip:

APPEARANCE

Boilermaker gold.

AROMA

Spiced honey, graham cracker, light citrus zest, baking spices and herbaceous mint notes.

PALATE

The palate is rich and dense with layers of vanilla custard, light caramel, dark chocolate, candied fruit, and hints of black tea and spearmint. The mid-palate highlights light oak, cinnamon and a well-rounded mouthfeel.

FINISH

Full, lingering finish with notes of vanilla, pipe smoke and spice hints.

96 Proof | 48% Alcohol by Volume | 750 ml

“The bourbon is perfect for the changing seasons,” Wason explains. “It’s a perfect ‘warming spirit’ that can be enjoyed neat, with a splash of water or on the rocks.”

The bourbon is packed with symbolic connections to Purdue University. The price of $74.18 pays homage to 1874, the year Purdue opened its doors for classes. The seven distillates from Indiana, aged seven years, symbolize the seven degree programs offered at Purdue’s White Lodging-J.W. Marriott, Jr. School of Hospitality and Tourism Management.

The Whites met on campus in West Lafayette and fell in love. In 2009 Bruce White gifted $5 million to establish the White Lodging School, which has since become a top destination for students

pursuing hospitality careers. The school, named in honor of Bruce White and his company, is renowned for its hospitality and tourism management programs. Bruce graduated from Purdue with a degree in management, while Beth earned a degree in coordinated dietetics.

Formed in 2020, the Purdue for Life Foundation builds lasting relationships among Purdue students, alumni and future Boilermakers. The foundation offers numerous ways to stay involved, including events, volunteer activities, and philanthropic efforts that support Purdue’s mission and community.

Wason says Brush Creek’s goal is to serve this whiskey on campus at the Union Club Hotel and the upcoming Boilermaker Ball fundraiser in Indianapolis on March 1, 2025.

The Purdue for Life Foundation special release is available at brushcreekdistillery.

com and bourbonoutfitter.com, or by visiting the distillery itself in Saratoga, Wyoming.

In other Purdue-related news, Sun King Brewery is paying tribute to legendary Purdue men’s basketball coach Gene Keady with a special beer crafted in honor of his 25-year tenure. Named Play Hard Lager, officials with the Indianapolis-based brewery say they worked with Keady’s family to develop the beer’s artwork and style. The beer is described by Sun King officials as a balanced blend of malt sweetness and hop character. It is said to symbolize the lessons Keady taught his players as a coach, including the benefits of teamwork and resilience.

Keady coached the Boilermakers from 1980 to 2005, and made 17 NCAA tournaments and two Elite Eight appearances.