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Byte Reviews


History of: 3DS

Nintendo is one company that has consistently embraced the allure of 3D. The 3DS is Nintendo’s fourth hand-held video game system and it was not perfect from the start. Here’s a look at the many successes and failures of one of the most influential video game systems.



Ball State University President Geoffrey Mearns holds up a 'chirp, chirp' sign with Charlie Cardinal in a YouTube video inside Bracken House. Mearns confirmed in the video, which published Dec. 13, that he had dislocated his left ankle and fractured it in three places over Thanksgiving Break. Ball State Marketing and Communications, courtesy

President Mearns to be in attendance for Board of Trustees Meeting, Commencement despite ankle injury

Ball State University President Geoffrey Mearns confirmed Wednesday an ankle injury that he sustained over Thanksgiving break.  "I actually dislocated my left ankle and fractured it in three places playing ping pong with my son in the basement here at Bracken House," Mearns said in a YouTube video posted Wednesday. "The good news is, I am pleased to report I am on the mend."


One man’s mission to recovery

Growing up, Andy Ray didn’t have everything he wanted, but he had everything he needed. The Muncie native loved sports and camping. He was an average student who spent free time with friends. In high school, he began drinking at parties, but alcohol became a way to cope after his girlfriend and parents died within a few years of each other. 



Free flu shots and area COVID clinics

The CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older get a flu vaccine every season to prevent sickness and missing work and school. If you get the flu, the vaccine can make symptoms less severe and reduce the risk of hospitalization.


Ross Center Judo Academy: For when life knocks you down

When students bow their heads and step onto mats for judo training at Muncie’s Ross Community Center, they learn far more than martial arts. Students gain discipline, self-confidence and strength along with social connection and problem-solving skills.


Muncie Queer Alliance: a new hub for the LGBTQ+ community

LGBTQ+ individuals in Muncie have found support and community at the Mark III Tap Room and through organizations like Muncie OUTreach, Muncie Pride Network and Spectrum. Each location or organization serves a distinct purpose, but advocates are working toward collaboration among them. 



Monthly neighborhood dinners fuel community

The aroma of brisket cooking on the grill fills the air as classic rock booms from a makeshift sound system. Children chase each other through the grass, laughing, and neighbors hug to greet one another with big smiles. This monthly dinner is the work of Urban Light Community Development, a nonprofit committed to improving the quality of life in Muncie.


Spicing up South Central

Paxon Vong opened Thai Kitchen 20 years ago to offer Muncie a diverse fusion of Southeast Asian cuisine. The native of Thailand makes every dish to order, with notes of sweet and sour, salty and spicy flavors paired in soups, stews, noodles and rice dishes. 


How to Master the Art of Professional Networking

The networking landscape has undergone tremendous changes over the years. But networking remains one of the most effective ways of advancing your career and business. 54% of new hires come from referrals, and 40% of new prospects become buying customers after a face-to-face meeting.  Here are 14 expert tips on how to master the art of professional networking.



Discover the Ultimate Anime Hat: How to Find the Perfect Match for Your Style?

Unveil the essence of anime culture through fashion with the ultimate anime hat—a symbol of both style and fondness for the vibrant world of animation. Sartorial choices speak volumes, and for the anime enthusiast, the perfect anime hat is not just an accessory; it's a proud emblem of character admiration and storytelling passion. 


Fourth-year journalism major Emma Plank holds up photos of her as a baby Dec. 1 at the photojournalism studio in the Art and Journalism Building. Mya Cataline, DN

What I’ll take with me

I want to reflect on what I learned and gained from this rollercoaster of an experience. I’ve compiled 20 things that I’ve picked up as a college student in these last four years. 


Spreading love, one brush stroke at a time

Muncie has become a canvas for striking stylistic murals on building exteriors across town. Their vibrant colors and inspiring images uplift neighborhoods and encourage residents to slow down and admire their surroundings. Some murals invite meaningful conversations about Muncie’s heritage and history. 


Small Sparks ignite big change

Muncie native Casey Eichenlaub is a man of action. He sees a problem and figures out a way to fix it. If the problem involves power tools, even better. In 2020, Eichenlaub secured a Small Sparks grant from the 8twelve Coalition to build fence posts for his Thomas Park Avondale neighbors. This year, he was awarded the grant to complete home repairs, mostly to water heaters and HVAC systems.