Good morning, Muncie.

High school students from the Muncie Youth Leadership Program launched a survey to get residents' views on the Unity Bridge—a landmark carrying railroad tracks over South Madison Street north of Kirby Avenue—in order to shape new community projects.

Survey responses will help local leaders and partners plan future uses for the bridge.

Michael J. Hicks from Ball State University said that Rust Belt cities lost many factory jobs after World War II and only those with more college-educated workers grew stronger.

His study shows that education policies by local leaders today—focusing on workforce skills—will shape quality of life and economic growth for years to come.

The U.S. Department of Labor reported that initial unemployment claims in Indiana increased last week to 2,571 from 2,366 the week before—overall U.S. jobless claims dropped to 224,000.

Delta High School junior Jillian Barr broke school records in the 60-meter hurdles and 4×200 relay at indoor meets, following a historic basketball season in which she led the Eagles to a 32-year sectional title and reached 1,000 career points.

Coaches say her strong work and leadership have set a new standard for the team—she continues to propel her peers forward.

Rick Owens, a longtime Indiana basketball coach and official who served as an assistant at Monroe Central, died on March 29 at age (79).

He worked for 33 years as an official, coached at Winchester Community High School, and was inducted into the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame.

April First Thursday — Madjax Maker Force

5-8 p.m. — Madjax Makerforce — Free entry — Experience an immersive showcase of art, design, and innovation blending the past and future at Madjax.

Ball State University Singers Spectacular

7-8:30 p.m. — Emens Auditorium — Ticket info not provided — Celebrate 61 years of musical excellence with Indiana’s Official Goodwill Ambassadors in a dazzling showcase.

Muncie Ducks Unlimited Sportsman's Night Out

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Carolina Room — Contact for pricing — Enjoy an evening dedicated to sportsmanship and conservation in a local setting.

Aretha Franklin Tribute Concert in Muncie

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Emens Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Experience a powerful tribute to the Queen of Soul featuring orchestral arrangements of her greatest hits.

Chamber Choir Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Sursa Performance Hall — Ticket info not provided — Experience a showcase of musical talents with an ambitious program by the university's premier choir.

Wind Ensemble Concert

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Sursa Performance Hall — Ticket info available — Celebrate the illustrious career of Thomas Caneva with a musical showcase featuring the Wind Ensemble and guest artists.

Earth Day Tree Planting

10 AM – 12 PM — Red-Tail Land Conservancy — Registration required — Enjoy a family-friendly tree planting to support local wildlife at a nature preserve.

Stand Up for Kids Comedy Night

7:30-9 p.m. — John J. Pruis Hall — Ticketed event — Enjoy laughs with Brent Terhune while supporting local kids in need.