Muncie Civic Theatre Heading Into 2025 With Diverse Slate of Shows
THE CORNER MAT MAKES YOGA ACCESSIBLE AND IMPACTFUL FOR ALL SKILL LEVELS
4 CENTERED ON HEALTH
The Corner Mat Makes Yoga Accessible and Impactful for All Skill Levels 8 THROUGH A LOCAL LENS Hoodox Streaming Platform Features Indiana-Focused Content
Muncie Civic Theatre Heading Into 2025 With Diverse Slate of Shows
How to Jumpstart Your Future at Ivy Tech Muncie-Henry County
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CENTERED ON HEALTH
THE CORNER MAT MAKES YOGA ACCESSIBLE AND IMPACTFUL FOR ALL SKILL LEVELS
Writer / Amy Leffingwell
Photographer / Chris Carroll
Debbie Gant sits on the original 1918 polished birchwood floor of The Corner Mat, nestled in the historic Kitselman mansion on University Avenue. This yoga studio has become her sanctuary. It’s hard to believe how much has changed in 15 years.
Gant spent 28 years in the fast-paced, high-stress world of commercial insurance. The job had drained her, physically and mentally, until she knew she needed to make a significant change. Looking for alternatives, she decided to enroll in a 200-hour yoga teacher training in Chicago, a decision that would lead her to leave behind the corporate world and create a space where balance and mindfulness could thrive.
Yoga is a mind-body practice that blends physical postures, breathing and meditation to enhance well-being. It strengthens the body, increases flexibility, and enhances balance while reducing stress and improving mental clarity. The practice encourages mindfulness, helping individuals connect with the present moment, calm the mind and cultivate inner peace. Through various methods including hatha, vinyasa and restorative yoga, students can tailor their experience to meet their unique needs.
Within a few weeks of practicing, Gant started noticing the changes. She felt taller, her posture was more aligned, and her
joints, once tight and sore, began to loosen up. “Old age doesn’t have to be what it used to be,” she explains. “As we get older, we still want to be able to get down on the floor with our grandkids.”
The Corner Mat is solely dedicated to yoga, unlike classes offering it in a fitness space. Yoga is all about the energy in the room, and at The Corner Mat, that energy is pure and focused. Unlike other places, where the sounds of bouncing balls or heavy weights dropping disrupt the flow, every sound - every breath - supports the practice. This creates a sense of calm, allowing each person to connect with their body and mind without distractions.
The Corner Mat offers a variety of yoga styles to suit different needs. Yin yoga focuses on the joints and connective tissues, promoting deep flexibility and relaxation. Restorative yoga is gentle and slow, designed to calm the nervous system and
encourage healing. For those seeking a more intense experience, the studio also offers hot yoga, where 12 infrared ceiling panels warm the room, helping to soften the body and increase flexibility. The studio’s client base is equally diverse, drawing people from all walks of life. “Being near the university, we see professors and students practicing alongside community members,” Gant says. This blend of backgrounds and experiences creates a welcoming atmosphere, where everyone can come together and find a sense of peace on their mat, regardless of who they are or where they come from.
Many people see yoga on social media and think of it as a “culture” of hippies or ultra-spiritual folks, which can feel intimidating to those just starting out. Perfectly curated Instagram posts can make it seem like you have to fit a certain mold to belong. “What you see on Instagram is not seen in class,” Gant says. “They are not true depictions.” At The Corner Mat, yoga is about meeting yourself where you are. It’s a practice for everyone, regardless of age, body type or experience.
Yoga isn’t just about physical flexibility; it can also help free up emotional baggage. By opening up the heart space, and especially the hips, deep-seated emotions can surface. “Sometimes clients will cry in class after releasing pent-up feelings they didn’t even realize they were carrying,” Gant says. This emotional release is a natural part of the healing process, and many students find that yoga offers a safe, nonjudgmental space to let go of stress, grief or long-held emotional tension.
As with any new venture, getting started is often the hardest part. For many, insecurities about appearance or clothes, or the fear of embarrassment, can be a hindrance. “The studio doesn’t have mirrors
and no one is looking,” Gant says. “Give it a try; don’t talk yourself out of it.” To make the process easier, The Corner Mat offers two weeks of unlimited classes for just $29, giving newcomers the chance to explore different classes and instructors until they find the best fit. It’s all about easing in without pressure, and finding the comfort and confidence to embrace the practice.
The studio also offers private group classes for clubs, teams, sororities, wedding showers and corporate bonding events. “The studio can hold up to 35 people for one price,” Gant explains. “People love a bonding experience.” For those looking for something a little different, she organizes fun outings like Yoga with Bunnies or Yoga with Goats at local farms. These events are more about enjoying time with the animals and are often tied to fundraisers. “Don’t take your expensive mat to one of these,” Gant warns with a smile. «It’s a little more rustic than your usual class.”
As the studio continues to grow, Gant has welcomed Lori LeValley as a partner. LeValley is currently completing the 200-hour teacher training and will take on an active role at the studio starting this April.
Gant emphasizes that the yoga experience is what you make of it, as long as it’s promoting peace and calm.
“I don’t care if you want to hang out in a comfy space and take a nap,” she says. “As long as you’re taking the time to care for yourself, that’s all that matters.”
For more information, visit thecornermat.com or email thecornermat@gmail.com.
THROUGH A LOCAL LENS
HOODOX STREAMING PLATFORM FEATURES
INDIANA-FOCUSED CONTENT
Writer / Ashlee Boruff
Hoosiers know how to support local restaurants, shops and music venues all over the state. It’s time to support the arts as well. Welcome to Hoodox.
The Hoodox website is a place to watch and support Hoosier documentaries. This streaming service is 100% Indiana focused, with films being made in Indiana or about Indiana. The Hoosier state is at the forefront on this streaming site.
Entrepreneurs and filmmakers Rocky Walls and Zach Downs founded Hoodox in 2021 because they saw a need for a place storytellers could showcase their work and build an audience. The website started with 20 nonfiction titles and now boasts over 100 movies to choose from.
“Hoodox is a nonprofit organization with a mission to support and promote Indiana storytelling that helps Hoosiers stay connected, spark conversations and create positive change,” Walls said.
The site brings together local storytellers and gives back to the community to create positive change. Every subscription goes back to the artists who are putting the stories in your hands. Like the big-name streaming companies, Hoodox has a small subscription price of $10 per month or $100 per year. This subscription gets you instant streaming access to hard-to-find local content all in one place. “When I tell people about Hoodox, they are often surprised at how many incredible films are being made right here in Indiana,” Walls said. “I have to admit that I am still amazed by the breadth of stories represented on Hoodox. With over 100 titles available to our supporters for streaming, there are feature-length films, short films, student films,
historical documentaries, stories about art and nature, and even stories about people and places from outside of Indiana told by Hoosier filmmakers.”
Not only can movie fans binge on films at watchhoodox.com, but local producers can also apply to have their own work on the site. Content on Hoodox is carefully curated, with all submissions going through an approval process through the programming committee. Hoodox welcomes applications from any nonfiction storytelling films or series.
“Hoodox had no seed funding, and we asked all of the filmmakers who licensed their films for streaming at the very beginning to allow us to license them at no cost, trusting that we would stay true to our mission and that financial support would come soon,” Walls said. “Since our founding, we’ve now given over $50,000 to filmmakers across Indiana and we’re aiming to grow that support even more in the coming years with the help of donors who support our mission.”
As Hoodox grows, the team has also partnered with several Indianapolis theaters, specifically Kan-Kan Cinema and Restaurant along with Heartland International Film Festival, to host their now-annual PitchDox documentary film competition.
“PitchDox is a documentary film competition that invites Hoosier filmmakers to submit their unfinished documentary projects - at any stage, from concept to post-production - for a chance to win a $10,000 financial award to support the production of their film,” Walls said. “The PitchDox main event is held during Heartland International Film Festival at the Kan-Kan Cinema and Restaurant. We’re fortunate to have both organizations as
partners to help fulfill our mission.”
The 2024 PitchDox winner was the film “Bloom” produced by Malakai Tyne Bisel, Victoria Britton, and Derek Hockemeyer. “Bloom” tells the story of super gardener Alex Babich and his quest to grow America’s tallest sunflower, all while balancing the needs of his family and the challenges of nature.
“Making films isn’t easy, and Hoodox gives Indiana filmmakers a platform to showcase their hard work,” Britton said. “There are endless stories waiting to be discovered and shared with audiences. Having a destination for these narratives, and an audience ready to support you, is a filmmaker’s dream come true.”
There are a lot of creative Hoosier filmmakers who have partnered with Hoodox to bring their films to you. Hoodox has bridged the gap between artists and viewers so films are now easily accessed and supported. Film supporters can subscribe monthly or simply donate to keep Hoodox growing and giving back to the film community.
“I want to continue being a champion of Hoosier documentaries through Hoodox and our programs, and through our own films we produce at 12 Stars Media,” Walls said. “The past few years have been by far the most exciting in my nearly 20-year career, and I have a feeling this is just the beginning.”
Stay up to date on new films and events by following @watchhoodox on social media. Be on the lookout for 2025 PitchDox details as well. Most importantly, sign up and stream on any device at watchhoodox.com.
ONCE MORE WITH FEELING
MUNCIE CIVIC THEATRE HEADING INTO 2025 WITH DIVERSE SLATE OF SHOWS
Writer / Melissa Gibson
Photographer / Kishel Photography
Muncie Civic Theatre has been a mainstay in downtown Muncie for decades. Founded in 1931, it’s one of the oldest theaters in the country, and the staff members are gearing up for another spring season, packed with a variety of performances for all.
“We have a long-storied past, founded by the son of one of the Ball brothers, William H. Ball,” said Brittany Covert, managing director. “They bought this building in 1961, a former vaudeville theater and then movie theater, so they could perform musicals.”
The purchase of the building moved the civic theater to the historic Boyce Block, built in 1880, and it remains a location residents of Muncie and surrounding areas can cherish for the history and also the entertainment.
“We are a volunteer organization ran by a board of directors, and you’ll see the people on stage are your local surgeon from Ball Hospital, your pharmacist, banker, lawyer,” Covert said. “It’s people from our community.”
For Brittany Kern, the chance to audition for her first performance four years ago changed her life.
“I don’t normally get to ‘play’ in my dayto-day life, but Civic has given me the opportunity to step outside of my comfort zone and explore the creative side of me that had long been quiet,” Kern said. “I have
made so many friends through the theater, and it’s so fun to be around these amazing and talented individuals who have the same passions I do.”
Kern said everyone is nervous about auditioning and the excitement teaches participants much about themselves, but if being on stage isn’t for you, there are other options.
“There are tons of opportunities to participate backstage or in other ways with set building, lights, costumes and more,” Kern said. “It’s a great introductory way to the theater to see how shows come to life.”
For example, volunteers have created dozens of pies for their upcoming performance. February 7 through 23 will feature a special performance, “Waitress”, in which Kern will play lead character Jenna Hunterson.
It’s based on the film and Tony Awardnominated musical, with music and lyrics by Grammy winner Sara Bareilles.
A pregnant woman in an abusive marriage finds her passion in baking pies and the strength to live independently.
“‘Waitress’ is not your traditional musical with big dance numbers and tons of elaborate costumes,” Kern said. “It’s a modern musical with music and lyrics that touch your heart and soul. It’s intimate,
funny, and brings light to many subjects that are not usually portrayed in musical fashion, which makes it exceptionally unique.”
The show will also be a rare performance seen in 2025. “We’ve developed a reputation as a quality civic theater and the rights organization, who allows us to perform shows when they are released, reached out to a few nonprofits, offering to let us perform it first,” Covert said. “It was an honor for us.”
The rest of the season on the main stage includes “Jesus Christ Superstar” in April and “1776” in June, with youth performances “Fame Jr.” and “Frozen JR.” in February and May.
“We have a huge youth program that meets on Saturdays for grades K through 12,” Covert said. “The building can be teeming with more than 300 youth sometimes. We don’t turn any child away and there are scholarships available. In addition, there are opportunities for classes, workshops, and spring and fall plays.”
Auditions for “Frozen JR.” will be held in late February.
“It’s always exciting,” Covert said. “We have a lot of fun here; we have shared experiences and lifelong friends,” Covert said.
Visit munciecivic.org to learn more.
NEW YEAR, NEW OPPORTUNITIES
HOW TO JUMPSTART YOUR FUTURE AT IVY TECH MUNCIE-HENRY COUNTY
Writer / Kimber Hercest
Life can be full of obstacles, including when it comes to getting a quality education. Ivy Tech Muncie-Henry County wants to remove those barriers by offering flexible classes, support and top-level resources that nontraditional students need to thrive.
Having the right skills can make all the difference in today’s ever-evolving workforce.
Ivy Tech’s various programs, from health care and information technology to advanced manufacturing and business, offer high-demand career pathways designed for adult learners.
With flexible scheduling options including evening and hybrid classes, Ivy Tech helps students balance their studies with work, family and other responsibilities.
“Ivy Tech understands the unique challenges that nontraditional students face,” says Chancellor Jeffrey Scott. “We’re here to make education accessible and achievable with small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and student services focused on their success.”
Ivy Tech offers comprehensive financial support through scholarships and payment plans, helping to make it affordable to acquire the skills needed
for today’s competitive job market. Additionally, career and resume workshops, career fairs, and an online job board assist students in transitioning smoothly from education to employment, positioning them for rewarding careers.
BENEFITS OF IVY TECH MUNCIE-HENRY COUNTY:
• Convenience: Our campuses are centrally located so students don’t need to commute to Indianapolis or Fort Wayne to get a great education.
• Flexible Class Schedules: Attend classes on your schedule, or online
• Career-Focused Options: Choose from a variety of programs tailored to highdemand fields.
• Affordable Education: Benefit from low tuition, financial aid options, scholarships and payment plans.
• Supportive Environment: Access Ivy+ Career Link, tutoring, and the Student Advocacy team to support every step of your journey.
• Prior College Credits: See if your prior credits can be transferred toward your associate degree through a comprehensive degree audit.
To learn more about Ivy Tech MuncieHenry County’s programs, visit their website at ivytech.edu/locations/muncie.
PATHS OF PROGRESS
GREAT THINGS HAPPENING IN MUNCIE FOR THE BLACK COMMUNITY
Back in the 1970s, Margot Middleton was a newscaster in Muncie for WLBC (now Woof Boom Radio), where she did a show on community awareness that highlighted various happenings in the black community.
“There are not a lot of black people in Muncie, but those who are here - it’s a great force,” says Middleton, whose grandfather carved shoes to escape slavery. He came through the south and ended up in the Levi Coffin House in Fountain City, Indiana, where he helped get slaves through the Underground Railroad.
Middleton, who during her career also
Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing
worked as an account representative for General Motors and a student coordinator for Ivy Tech, sees progress being made in the Muncie community as black people educate and communicate with one another to ensure that all are exposed to information and crossing cultural lines. The black community understands that there is power in sharing.
“To be candid, there’s a lot of subliminal and intellectual ugliness that still occurs,” Middleton says. “But history has taught us that when you hear the dogs barking, keep moving. That’s what I see happening.”
She’s optimistic about what is happening in
Muncie for youths, adults and the elderly. For instance, organizations like the MuncieDelaware Black Chamber, Juneteenth celebration and NAACP are cultivating young entrepreneurs.
“I’ve seen children as young as junior high design creative products,” Middleton says. “Young people are becoming interested in business because these organizations and others are exposing them to opportunities.”
One such example is taking the youth on field trips to historically black colleges to give them an idea of what they can experience on that level.
In addition, churches in Muncie such as Union Missionary Baptist are partnering with various resources throughout the city to show those - especially those in the Whitely area - how to buy their own homes and build credit.
“When you connect with people who look like you and understand some of the pitfalls you’ve been through, it’s easier to talk to them and trust them,” Middleton says. “That’s just human nature.”
This is precisely why more black people are going to doctors and psychiatrists, because Muncie now has people of color filling both of those roles. This is a huge breakthrough, especially in the field of mental health, as Middleton notes that historically, black people haven’t felt safe in seeking help for mental health issues.
“Black people never believed in talking to psychologists or psychiatrists,” she says. “They just held onto it. Now with black mental health practitioners in the
community, they are.”
For years Middleton served on the board of Jackson Life Services, Inc. (JLS), which seeks to provide life services that educate, enrich and empower the local, national and international communities with a heavy focus on the Whitely community.
“JLS does tremendous work with elderly support, counseling and community development,” Middleton says. “It’s a silent arm in the community that you don’t really hear a lot about, but it’s exciting.”
As for education, at Muncie’s Longfellow Elementary School, they have a program for first- through fifth-graders called Literacy for Liberation. The students at Longfellow are predominantly people of color. These students are exposed to books that have been created by people of the black community, and activities that represent them.
There is also the Whitely Institute on Community Engaged Teacher Prep designed
for students at Ball State University. Those who plan to do their internship teaching at Longfellow Elementary are encouraged to participate in this program that’s held across 10 Saturdays, during which they learn how to better communicate with their students. The institute is not connected with Ball State University. It was created by a group of community leaders who wanted to better prepare college students for how to engage with students in black communities.
“It’s a great model,” Middleton says. “It’s the idea of, if you’re going to come into our community, you need to know something about our community. We know some people are trying to eliminate a lot of history, but student-teachers need to know about history so they know how to talk and communicate with the children.”
February may be the month that we celebrate black history, but make no mistake that black history is being made every day.
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Follow the adventures of Sy, Annie, and their dog, Armstrong, as they embark on an unexpected journey into space! muncieevents.com
“TO SPACE & BACK” PLANETARIUM SHOW
BALL STATE UNIVERSITY, 2000 W. UNIVERSITY AVE. 12 - 1PM
Hear the extraordinary story of human ingenuity and engineering, describing how the technology that transports us through space is paving the way for the devices and apps many of us use every day. muncieevents.com
3 MOMS UNHINGED STANDUP COMEDY SHOW
CORNERSTONE CENTER FOR THE ARTS, 520 E. MAIN ST. 7PM
Join us for a night of laughter as we explore everything from motherhood to midlife crises, marriage, divorce, online dating and other things that irritate us. Men are welcome to the show too.
5
BALL STATE UNIVERSITY
CARDINALS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL VS. BOWLING GREEN FALCONS
JOHN E. WORTHEN ARENA, BETHEL AVE. & MCKINLEY AVE.
IT’S A PATHWAYS PARTY
THE MULTICULTURAL CENTERMULTIPURPOSE ROOM, 1120 N. MCKINLEY AVE.
3:30 - 5PM
Join us to celebrate mentorship and connections across our campus!
STAINED GLASS HEART & ENVELOPE
CORNERSTONE CENTER FOR THE ARTS, 520 E. MAIN ST. 6PM
Perfect for beginners, this workshop will guide you through the basics of stainedglass crafting.
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FIRST THURSDAY GALLERY WALK
DOWNTOWN, 120 W. CHARLES ST. 6AM - 8PM downtownmuncie.org
11
BALL STATE UNIVERSITY
CARDINALS MEN’S BASKETBALL VS. EASTERN MICHIGAN EAGLES
JOHN E. WORTHEN ARENA, BETHEL AVE. & MCKINLEY AVE.
15
BALL STATE UNIVERSITY
CARDINALS MEN’S BASKETBALL VS. NORTHERN ILLINOIS HUSKIES
JOHN E WORTHEN ARENA, BETHEL AVE. & MCKINLEY AVE.
FARMERS MARKET AT MINNETRISTA: INDOOR MARKET
MINNETRISTA, 1200 N MINNETRISTA PKWY. 9AM - 12PM minnetrista.net
FOREVER SEGER
PARAMOUNT THEATRE, 1124 MERIDIAN PLAZA 7:30 - 11:30PM
FOREVER SEGER creates a dynamic journey through the timeless music of Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band. andersonparamount.org
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THE ULTIMATE GALENTINE’S PARTY
2025
ROOM 5 PIANO BAR, 2150 WEST WHITE RIVER BOULEVARD
7 - 10PM
Get ready for the most epic Galentine’s Party ever in 2025 - a night of fun, friendship and unforgettable memories! eventbrite.com
19
KODO ONE EARTH
TOUR 2025: WARABE
BALL STATE UNIVERSITY, 2000 W. UNIVERSITY AVE. | 11AM
In Japanese, the word “kodo” holds a double meaning. It can be translated as “heartbeat,” the primal source of all rhythm. muncieevents.com
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THIRD THURSDAY
EXPERIMENTAL ELECTRONIC MUSIC NIGHT
COMMON MARKET, 900 W. 8TH ST.
2 - 6PM
Third Thursdays is a monthly experimental and electronic music performance held at the Common Market. muncieevents.com
22 BALL STATE UNIVERSITY
CARDINALS MEN’S BASKETBALL VS. UNIVERSITY AT
BUFFALO BULLS
JOHN E. WORTHEN ARENA, BETHEL AVE. & MCKINLEY AVE.
25
BALL STATE UNIVERSITY
CARDINALS MEN’S BASKETBALL VS. AKRON ZIPS
JOHN E. WORTHEN ARENA, BETHEL AVE. & MCKINLEY AVE.
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MNOZIL BRASS
EMENS AUDITORIUM, 1800 W. RIVERSIDE AVE. 7:30PM
Mnozil Brass has been entertaining fans around the globe for 30 years with their comedic brilliance, sensational programs and impeccable playing.
TOWNE POST NETWORK AND BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU® SERVING CENTRAL INDIANA FORM
NEW DYNAMIC PARTNERSHIP
The collaboration will create more digital and print advertising options for local BBB Accredited Businesses.
Towne Post Network and the Better Business Bureau® Serving Central Indiana (BBB) have entered a new partnership to offer print and digital marketing services for more than 4,200 BBB Accredited Businesses across 42 counties in Indiana.
Towne Post will kick off the partnership by offering a “Basic Digital Display” package to BBB Accredited Businesses with the goal of targeting customers by zip code searching for local services across the web and apps. Other services include print advertising in any of the 14 central Indiana Towne Post monthly magazines, digital display advertising, streaming TV ads, local SEO services, Google ad management, and basic website design packages.
“This collaboration is a perfect fit,” says Towne Post Network Founder and CEO Tom Britt. “As an organization, Towne Post’s core values of serving the community with transparency and honesty are in lockstep with BBB Accreditation Standards when it comes to truth in advertising.”
The standards outline the criteria businesses
must meet to maintain trust, including upholding legal and ethical advertising practices, transparency in the marketplace, safeguarding customer privacy and honoring commitments.
Britt says Towne Post will encourage its advertisers to seek BBB Accreditation to show their commitment to building trust in their respective communities.
“This partnership brings together two organizations with an aligned purpose,” says BBB Serving Central Indiana President and CEO Cathy Armour. “With more than two decades of local expertise and community support, the Towne Post Network’s dedication to showcasing positive stories and small businesses will help strengthen the resources we offer BBB Accredited Businesses.”
For more information on BBB Accreditation, visit bbb.org/get-accredited.
About Towne Post Network, Inc.
Founded in 2004 with a mission to create engaging and relevant community publications, Towne Post Network is redefining the magazine industry. With a focus on hyper-local content and an integrated print and digital marketing
approach, their magazines connect businesses and residents in communities like never before. Towne Post Network’s cloudbased platform offers franchisees flexibility and freedom, allowing them to work from home while benefiting from comprehensive support and group-vendor pricing. With an expanding network of hyper-local publishers, Towne Post Network is actively seeking passionate individuals to bring their community-focused magazines to towns across the country. For more information, visit franchising.townepost.com.
About BBB Serving Central Indiana
The Better Business Bureau has empowered people to find businesses, brands and charities they can trust for more than 110 years. In 2023, people turned to BBB more than 218 million times for BBB Business Profiles on more than 5.3 million businesses, and 80,000 times for BBB charity reports on about 12,000 charities, for free at bbb. org. Regional, independent BBBs can be found across the United States and Canada, including BBB Serving Central Indiana, which was founded in 1916 and serves 42 counties in Indiana. For more information, visit bbb.org.
THE SKINNY ON SUPPLEMENTS GETTING BETTER HEALTH
RESULTS IN THE NEW YEAR
Writer / Rebecca Berfanger Photographer / Chris Carroll
When some people think of supplements, they picture a salesperson selling unrealistic goals and dreams for the low price of $49.99 per bottle or jug of protein powder. Maybe they consider a podcast ad by a bodybuilder, selling memory enhancers and shakes, which may or may not work for everyone.
Zach Lowe, owner of 5 Star Nutrition in Muncie, said supplements are just there to do what the name suggests: supplement a person’s diet and fill in the gaps for healthy metabolism, hydration and otherwise keeping healthy.
“Let’s say you bought this slick, nice new Mercedes Benz,” he said. “Every week you’re hand-washing it and not taking it through the carwash. You’re taking care of the paint, cleaning the interior, keeping it smelling fresh and new. But you’re not changing the
oil, you’re not keeping up with maintenance, you’re using the cheaper gas, and you’re not checking the breaks or replacing the tires when the tread is low.”
“You might be proud of how it looks or how it sounds, or the flashiness of the car, but you’re not going to have the car long and it won’t be reliable if you don’t take care of the insides first - if you’re not handling problems when they arise and just letting them go on too long,” he added. If we don’t take care of our inside first, then there’s almost no point of taking care of the outside. The goal should be to become healthier.”
To do this, he recommended stopping by the store for a free assessment, including a free scan using the InBody machine. The machine offers a noninvasive measurement of the user’s weight, and also body fat, muscle mass,
hydration and visceral fat (fat around the organs). It also provides a breakdown of each of the user’s arms, legs and trunk.
The InBody scan is meant to provide a baseline. Lowe suggests clients come back at least every two to four weeks to check on their progress after setting goals with one of the store’s certified nutritionists - experts in sports nutrition and weight loss. Everyone on his staff is a nutritionist. Lowe has been certified in sports nutrition and weight-loss nutrition for almost 11 years - something he has been passionate about since he was a teen athlete.
He said coming in every few weeks also adds a level of accountability.
“If I know I have a check-in coming up, I might be more likely to skip the drive-
through, or get up earlier to do a workout if I know I need to check in soon,” he said.
In addition to the InBody scan results, he said “we always start by looking at the person’s nutrition. What are they eating?”
Even if someone thinks they are getting the right amount of protein and getting micronutrients from fresh fruits and vegetables, there is almost always room for improvement.
While each person is unique in their needs, he said most customers will likely need at least one if not all three categories of supplements: electrolytes for hydration, protein for muscle mass, and superfoods that include micronutrients to fill in other gaps.
“Different electrolytes and other ingredients make sure we are optimally hydrated,” Lowe said. “We don’t need just water. If we consume a lot of water without electrolytes, that might be dehydrating.” He added that electrolytes should be used in conjunction with any workout routine, while explaining that one surprising benefit of being properly hydrated is a better night’s sleep.
“While I’m sometimes guilty of this, sometimes we forget to drink water throughout the day,” he said. “But if we drink water, not just in the morning and at night but all throughout the day, we’ll be better hydrated.”
What does this have to do with sleep?
“If you wait until too late to drink water, you’ll have to wake up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom,” Lowe said. “Or, if you don’t drink enough water throughout the day, you could wake up in the middle of the night because you’re thirsty. If we just drink water and if we make hydration a priority, that alone can directly help with sleep quality.”
He also encouraged not only the amount of hours one sleeps as a measurement of health, but the quality of that sleep. Removing excess lights, turning off electronics before bed and figuring out ways to de-stress are all ways to improve sleep hygiene.
As far as protein, Lowe said that while one could get it from eating enough chicken, lean red meat, fish or other sources, if someone is trying to get results by building muscle, they’ll likely need to increase their protein intake beyond a typical diet. Building muscle and maintaining a healthy level of protein is also a way to reduce fat in the long term, along with - you guessed it - drinking more water. According to the National Institutes of Health, muscles are about 79% water.
If you’re trying to lose body fat, you should think about building muscle, Lowe said, “because our muscles are the source of our metabolism. So if you want to maintain as much muscle as you can, you also need to stay hydrated. Muscles and metabolism don’t work without water. And there is a slew of problems if you don’t get enough water,” including issues with vital organs, considering the brain and heart are
composed of 73% water, the lungs are about 83% water, and kidneys are about 79% water, according to the U.S. Geological Survey - not to mention that digestive health is affected by one’s hydration.
Finally, superfoods provide vitamins and minerals, usually from green and red vegetables, mushrooms, probiotics, and digestive enzymes, and these are typically missing in most people’s diets, Lowe said.
There might be some circumstances when a person needs medical intervention, Lowe added, and 5 Star has suggestions on where to get a blood screen or seek medical care.
“The majority of our customers are people who are looking for help and expertise in getting healthier,” he said. “There is so much information out there on the internet, some of it tells you that red meat is bad, and some will say red meat is the best for you. There is so much out there. We want to be the voice of reason and be a safe space to ask us as many questions as you want, and we’ll simplify it in terms of nutrition, training, tracking and supplements. Fitness and nutrition is simple. We make sure you understand it very clearly and get the recommendations and guidance that you need.”
“Our first goal is to help people,” he added. “If that means working on nutrition and not buying supplements, that’s what we’ll do. We’re not out to bring in tons of revenue. We want to give customers results.”
IGNITING PASSION
INDY IGNITE GEARING UP FOR INAUGURAL SEASON
Writer / Renée Larr
/ Michael Durr
The growth of women’s sports worldwide is not just a cultural milestone. It’s big business.
According to FIFA, the 2023 Women’s World Cup final attracted 13.21 million viewers in the United Kingdom alone. Stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese have propelled the popularity of women’s basketball. In a historic moment for U.S. women’s sports, Nebraska’s Division I women’s volleyball team shattered the world attendance record when 92,003 fans filled Memorial Stadium.
Closer to home, Munciana Volleyball, based in Yorktown, stands as one of the most successful clubs in the country. Known for producing multiple national champions and elite athletes, the club boasts a track record of players and coaches at collegiate and professional levels. One of those standout players is Yorktown native Kylie Murr. A four-season star at Ohio State, Murr became the all-time digs leader with 1,935 before transferring to Minnesota for her final collegiate season. Her journey culminated with a professional draft to the Vegas Thrill, part of the emerging Pro Volleyball Federation (PVF).
The PVF, which launched its inaugural season in 2024, began with seven teams featuring 14 players each. The league adopted a major-league format, playing games in prominent arenas across the U.S. Among its recent expansions is the Indy Ignite, based in Fishers - a move championed by Co-owners Jim Schumacher and Don Hutchinson, and made possible by the unwavering support of the local community.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Indy Ignite to our brandnew Fishers Event Center and contribute to the growth and momentum of women’s sports in our region,” Fadness says. “Having a professional sports team call
Photographer
Fishers home is a testament to how far we’ve come as a vibrant destination for sports, dining and entertainment in the region. I’m proud that we can provide a venue to showcase the incredible talent and determination of these women, and help to pave the way to inspire the next generation of female athletes.”
Murr will return to her Hoosier roots as a libero for Indy Ignite. Liberos, often called the defensive anchors of volleyball, specialize in back-row play, particularly in receiving and digging the opponent’s attacks. At 5 feet, 6 inches, Murr’s stature might be smaller than some on the court, but her grit, fearlessness and agility make her a standout athlete.
Murr shares her perspective on the transition from college to professional volleyball. She notes that the physicality of the sport is a significant difference. “The girls who jump really high and hit the ball really hard are what people love to see when they’re watching volleyball,” Murr says. “I think the biggest difference between college and professional volleyball is just how physical all these women are on the team.”
Murr says she’s excited to be part of such a special team of female athletes. The team is a group of passionate, strong and independent women who hope to be role models to other young female athletes who love the sport of volleyball. Murr says Indy Ignite, with its unique blend of passion, strength and independence, has the advantage of being a newly formed team in the league, setting it apart from the rest.
“As an add-on team, we get to build this thing from the ground up and show everyone what Indiana volleyball is all about,” Murr says. “Everyone on the team has the same competitive mindset. We’re super focused and hard-working but also very lighthearted, making important connections with each other.”
Founders Day Scrimmage at Fishers Event Center
For Murr, playing professional volleyball in her home state feels like a dream come full circle. Raised on Indiana’s high school volleyball culture, she says it’s humbling to compete at a professional level close to family and friends. She’s happy for the team to be based in a suburb of Indianapolis, because in Fishers they can stand out from other professional sports.
“I’m so excited to be back home where I have friends and family support,” Murr says. “I think it’s so impressive to have professional volleyball in Indiana. I think it’s important to consider your location when determining where to place a professional team. Here in Indiana, there is such a young crowd that loves and is dedicated to volleyball. I think it’s going to be cool to see these younger girls come out and watch us play.”
Murr says if you love volleyball and want to get better at it, you should come check out a live Indy Ignite game. She says experiencing the game firsthand is very different from seeing it on TV.
“As a pro volleyball player, we’re very open to connecting with the community’s crowd,” Murr says. “Seeing the girls in action and even meeting them changes your perception of the game. There are a lot of great athletes and role models, regardless of whether you like volleyball or not. Families can bring their kids and show them firsthand examples of what their future could look like.”
As the PVF and teams like Indy Ignite continue to expand, players like Murr are leading the way for women’s sports to reach unprecedented heights. Their success is a testament to the community’s vital role in supporting and nurturing the growth of women’s sports, proving that the future is bright globally and locally. This is a unique opportunity to be part of a significant movement in the world of sports.
The season, set to kick off on January 11 at the Fishers Event Center against the Orlando Valkyries, promises an exhilarating start. To secure your spot for the entire season or delve deeper into the team’s journey, visit provolleyball.com/teams/ indy-ignite.
