the Burris photography and yearbook participated in a poll for this years favorite candy they received or wanted for easter
Chocolate bars (dark or milk)---3
Jelly Bellys--- 2
Sour Patch Kids--- 5
Butterfinger--- 2
Skittles--- 3
Starburst--- 3
Swedish fish--- 1
Friday, April 29, 2011
Music Review: Another Night Alone by Mac Miller
April showers cause trouble for baseball
The Burris Owls Baseball team has played only six games in the month of April while seven have been canceled due to rain. Not only irritating for the entire baseball staff, but the athletic directors suffer as well. When asked about the baseball schedule being difficult to coordinate with rain-outs, Athletic Director Ray Dawson simply pointed at a calendar on the wall filled with dates to the brim on all school events and other sports dates. He then said, “Well take a look at that calendar and tell me its easy to just reschdule games.”
This has been one of the wettest Aprils in history accumulating over 7 inches of rain in just this month alone. With that being said, the baseball teams around the county and state have been suffering a loss of games fromtheir schedules.
This has been the trend this spring with all the other teams in the county and even the state as athletic directors have the difficult task of trying to make up all games being rained out. Dawson said, “Well it’s so hard because we sometimes make these schedules three or four years in advance so when we have to reschedule these we have to go off of what our school calendar is like and match it with others to try and make these games up.”
Most of the games canceled so far have been non-conference games, but as they continue to pile up many of these games will end up just being canceled. Dawson said, “We absolutely have to play the conference games because those arethe rules, so as these games continue to be canceled our options go down and we may even have to cancel future games with non-conference opponents just to get in the conference ones.”
Dawson said, “This has simply been the worst spring since 1995 when I took this position at Burris.”
Ideally for the Owls, half of there schedule should have been played by now, which brings the issue if the Owls will be able to play the remainder of their games on top of their cancelations.
'Soul Surfer' review
by Derek Packard
The newly released movie, "Soul Surfer," is an inspirational true story about a girl who is a surfer in Hawaii. The story implies many religious views as well as quotes several scripture from the bible. The true story is based of a girl named Bethany Hamilton and the struggles her and her family experience due to a tragic run in with a shark.
Bethany was in the middle of a great surfing rise, she was heading into the Junior National tournament. During one of her training sessions she was attacked by a shark. The attack made her lose one of her arms and for ever took certain abilities away. At first Bethany will struggle, both physically and mentally with the attack. She even begins to suffer spiritually.
Thanks though to some help from a youth pastor her family and several other members of the community she is able to get back up on the surf board and do her best with what she has. During the climax of the movie strong spiritual moments are enforced. If you are offended by spiritual actions, then you will not want to watch the climax of this movie.
Overall I would give this movie an A. It was put together extremely well and is a true story. I would recommend this movie to both the religious as well as non religious, because it is something that people need to see. It shows how strong a girl was through one of the most difficult times in her life and was able to make the best out of it and try to continue on with out even her self physically holding her back.
Graduation Plans
Austin Quinn
As time grows nearer seniors begin to decide where they will begin their futures next year. Most if not all have college dreams and will be carrying them out at the turn of fall. Variety of jobs will be studied during time at colleges. Some jobs include: Sports Science, Speech Pathology, Policy making, Pre-Law, Nursing and Sports Medicine. Best of wishes to everyone completing their Senior year and a new beginning at the start of fall.
List of schools students are attending:
Ball State: 11
NYU: 1
IU: 5
Grace: 1
Judson: 1
Undecided/Unknown: 10
S. Florida: 1
Ohio: 1
IUPUI: 3
Purdue: 2
Ivy Tech: 1
Ivy tech then BSU: 1
Facebook vs Twitter
According to a poll of 20 Burris High School students, 55% of students prefer using social networking site Facebook, while 45% prefer the popular site Twitter.
Chris Brown F.A.M.E by Hannah Clemmons
Artist Chris Brown debuted his album F.A.M.E. (forgiving all my enemies) as his come back after the domestic violence situation with Rihanna in 2010. Brown believes that since the situation, people only know him as an abuser. F.A.M.E. was his way to come back from all the publicity and negative news to show that he is able to move past the event and hopefully his fans and the press will follow.
Brown made an appearance on Good Morning America and was continuously asked about his past with Rihanna. He continued to say that he was not interested in discussing his past and wanted to look towards the future and his new album. After the interview, Brown was enraged and broke a window after ripping off his t shirt. He again apologized for his behavior but requests that reporters stop bringing up the past.
Brown began his F.A.M.E tour in Australia on April 20 and will soon be making his way back to the United States to continue the tour.
Release Date: March 18, 2011
Genre: R&B, Pop, Hip Hop
Length: 53:53
Singles: Yeah 3x (October 25, 2010)
Look At Me Now (February 1, 2011)
Beautiful People (March 11, 2011)
She Ain't You (March 28, 2011)
Mugshot of the Day
Mr Canada has introduced many of his Government students to a sheriff in Arizona who uses unique methods of housing criminals. Sheriff Joe Arpaio is against illegal immigration and keeps a counter of all of the individuals he sends back to Mexico.
The sheriff also requires the individuals housed in his jail to wear pink uniforms, including pink underwear. The residents of the jail are also banned from smoking and reading magazines.
The most recent topic of interest however is the Mugshot of the Day contest. The Maricopa county sheriff uploads several unique mugshots of people arrested in his county jail to a website every day and allows for the people of America to vote on them. Burris Senior Hannah Badger said, “I really like voting for mugshots, they are so funny and it’s interesting to see how people were acting right after they got arrested, I’m really glad Mr Canada told me about it.”
The website to the Mugshot of the Day contest is as follows: http://www.mcso.org/Mugshot/
Burris senior Kelsey Carr wins scholarship
Staff Writer
Faulkner Allocco
Burris senior Kelsey Carr wins Eugene Cato Memorial Scholarship Award. Carr is one of 12 seniors in the state to receive this award.
“I applied for this scholarship back in January and was really excited to hear that I got it,” said Carr.
This award was given by the IHSAA and is specific to student athletes. Carr is a three-sport athlete participating in volleyball, basketball and track. She is also a member of the IHSAA student committee. The award is for 2500 dollars which will go towards tuition at a college of the student winners’ choice as long as they stay as a full time student.
“It’s exciting because I have a lot of involvement in the IHSAA and I believe a lot in it, so it is nice to be recognized on this level,” said Carr.
The award was formally presented to Carr Thursday April, 28th in the Indiana Roof Ballroom in downtown Indianapolis.
Battle Of the Bands
Hannah Badger
Some may think the Muncie music scene may not consist of much, but in fact shows happen all the time in Muncie.
Promoter Jason Rockhill books most of the shows around Muncie and surrounding areas such as Farmland. He has also started his own music venue in Muncie. It is called the Old Skewl. It is located in the gym in the retirement center on 8th street. There are shows there at least two times a month.
Today Friday April 29 there is huge event kickoff for Rockhill Productions. The Rockhill Battle of the Bands takes place tonight and tomorrow night at the Old Skewl. Many bands will be competing to win a prize. Roughly eight bands will compete each night. Some bands included are, Part-Time Hero, Creating Constellations, The Day After!!!, and Protest for Pluto, which are all bands from the Muncie area.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
What is Burris' favorite season?
Alex Nancarrow
- 21% of the people surveyed said Spring as their favorite season.
- 42% of the people surveyed said Summer as their favorite season.
- 26% of the people surveyed said Fall as their favorite season.
- 11% of the people surveyed said Winter as their favorite season.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Independent Studies-kylie
Students who are working on independent studies will soon be wrapping up their semester long progress. Students must have 90 hours for their independent study. Students log their time on a sheet and are assessed by their presentation. Independent study advisors meet with students atleast once a week to check their progress and encourage them. This time is also used for constructive criticism.
When asked about if they like their independent study Hannah Clemmons said, "I enjoyed my independent study a lot!"
Kylie Smith said, "I like doing my independent study and I've learned a lot about scratch art!"
Favorite Ice Cream
Ice cream is a favorite food for the majority of people here at Burris. I have gone around the school asking peoples favorite ice cream places and i found that the top three places said were Baskin Robins, Dairy Queen, and Ivanhoes. "Ivanhoes is definitely my favorite ice cream place, it is a bit of a drive, but definitely worth it," says Lucas Parsons. "I love Baskin Robins because they have 31 scoops of pure goodness!" Says Austin Quinn. Many friends and families spend time together by getting ice cream. It's fun to go out with people you enjoy being around and getting a delicious frozen treat. "My friends and i like to hangout at Dairy Queen a lot because their ice cream is incredible and it's a great place to catch up with people," says Caleb Pine.
Senior Honors Night
Senior honors night is approaching fast. On Wednesday, May 4th at 7:30 p.m the student council will be presenting the class of 2011 and their accomplishments. "I'm kind of nervous because I've never done this before and I didn't get to go last year, but I'm also excited to get to honor the seniors because I know some of them pretty well," freshman Kaylin Armstrong said. Friends and family will meet in the auditorium to hear about each member of the senior class. "I'm excited to go hear about all of the seniors accomplishments and future plans. It should be pretty cool," junior Corey Regan said. After the introductions, scholarships and awards will be presented to select members of the class. Once all the announcements have been made, the freshman class will be providing refreshments.
AP English Exam
By: Paige Chambers
The AP Composition and Literature exam is this coming Thursday, May 5th. The test will be at 8:00 A.M. The test will take place in the student center in room 301. Mrs. Maugherman will be proctoring the test.
There are 16 students in Mrs. McGill's AP Lit course and all will be taking the test. The test consists of three essays and a multiple choice section. The students will have three hours to complete them.
Kylie Smith says, "I am not prepared for the exam. I don't feel like we have done anything to prepare for the exam."
Molly Boylan also says she is not ready or prepared for the exam.
Most AP Lit students feel as if they will receive a 1 or 2 on the test, which is not enough to get a college credit. Although this year, many colleges are now accepting a 3. A 4 and 5 are what students should be shooting for.
Class Pictures
On Friday the 29, we will have Class pictures.
So everyone look your best.
The pictures will be taking place outside, if the weather is unwilling,
the pictures will be taken in the Burris Auditorium.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
'Words With Friends' popular app
by Alison Carmichael
'Words With Friends,' an iPhone and Droid app, has been increasing in popularity among Burris high schoolers.
“I have 19 games going right now,” said Hannah Clemmons. 'Words With Friends' is just like the popular board game Scrabble. The only difference is that the bonus squares are positioned differently. The game is easy to access on your phone or iPod touch and is known for being addictive. The game also has a tendency to become a little competitive.
Alex Phipps only plays one game at a time so he has plenty of time to focus on getting the most points possible and beating whoever he’s playing. “I’m more focused on the whole winning thing than Charlie Sheen is,” said Phipps.
Alex Nancarrow plays numerous games at a time and well, wins all of them. Some people have accused Nancarrow of cheating because it’s basically impossible to beat him. “I don’t cheat. I can’t help it everyone else is horrible and I’m just good at it,” he said.
Some of the 'Words With Friends' players are guilty of playing the game during class, letting it distract them from homework, and staying up late at night just to play. Danielle Watkins isn’t quite that addicted, but she really enjoys the game. “It’s just fun to compete with people. It never gets old,” said Watkins.
Words with Friends
By: Tanna Jones
A new fad has developed among Burris students, the game, Words with Friends. Students are able to play this game on either their smart phones or IPod touches. The game is free on both devices.
The game is like scrabble. One person plays a word and then it is sent to your friends IPod or phone. A notification is sent and tells you when it is your turn. A person can play whenever they want, which is the difference with scrabble, you can play whenever it is convenient for you. Senior Paige Chambers say, “ This game is really fun because I can play at my own leisure.”
You can add friends or you can play random people around the word. The goal is to get as many points as possible from words. There are also bonus squares that can help you rack up more points.
Monday, April 25, 2011
The Labyrinth
“What have I gotten myself into?” I question as I round another corner. This place…it is infinite. I’ve been here for so long that I’ve forgotten how or why I’m even here in the first place. Did I agree to this or was it forced upon me? Am I a prisoner? Am I in Purgatory, or hell, or some combination of the two? What am I to gain from this: wealth, fame, freedom? I do not know. All I know is that I must move on. I’ve been at this for so long, in fact, that I’ve even forgotten how I’ve come to learn the means by which to advance. Did someone teach them to me? Certainly I did not enter this realm knowing that my words, when combined, had this much power. All of these questions are pointless however; as well as silent, and thus they shall remain. For if I speak my thoughts aloud, I am uncertain as to the ramifications of this action.
For you see, I am trapped…trapped in this place without end…a Labyrinth would be a sufficient noun. I would divulge the duration of my adventure; however, I no longer have any such perception of time. Nor have I in…ah, again I attempt a chronological categorization of events, or my perception of the duration of those events….forgive me, I digress. Perhaps this is how I’ve allowed myself to become lost so many a time. I must stay focused at all times; if my mind wanders, sometimes I find myself rambling, no longer attending to the words dripping out of my mouth. Without sense and order to my speech, I am furthering myself from relief.
I suppose I should explain; I wouldn’t want to bestow confusion upon any other parties. You see, the only way for me to advance in this Labyrinth is to speak aloud. Whatever I say, is…what I mean by this is that by using my words aloud I create. Like a divine architect: I am creating the tools, which I am using to find the end of this maze out of nothing but my own words. If I desire, or think a staircase will lead me closer I just say, “Rising staircase.”; if it is too steep I say, “Lower” and if too low than the same method but the other way around. I do wish I knew how close I was though. I’ve been at this for what seems an eternity and I’ve no indication of how far I’ve gone and how close I am to the end.
But how could I have forgotten! If I wish to bring you along on this journey with me than you must be keen to my whereabouts; by whereabouts I do not mean my geographical location, for that is impossible to tell from where I currently reside. I had simply forgotten, until now, to describe the conditions I find myself in. I find myself in a long corridor. It is damp and dark, with torches, ever so evenly spaced, lighting the walls. Each step I take, each breath I make, echoes from here to the depths of hell; which I am beginning to suspect is not much more than a murmur away. With the exception of minor differences, each time I adapt my surroundings to further my progress it seems almost identical to the position I was in last. I turn a corner, there’s a corridor; I turn four corners, there is a corridor; I ascend a set of stairs, corridor; descend a spiral staircase that I decide opens into the mouth of a pit, which I quickly create stepping stones to descend, corridor. Perhaps not the most suitable of conditions for one upon whom wit and decisiveness, and altogether sanity so heavily rely.
Perhaps I have rambled already, I do not recall what I say or of what I speak. I am, quite understandably, losing my mind. For instance I talk to you now but it is only I who is to suffer this fate; only I who is in this corridor…for if someone else were here I would have heard their echoes by now…unless my own drown them out…ah, now there’s an idea. Perhaps there has been someone following closely behind for the duration of my dilemma; perhaps I should check…nothing, no one, only darkness and the sounds of my footsteps.
So here I stand; in the same corridor I’ve visited innumerable times, frantically thinking of what might bring me closer to the end, speaking to my own self…I’d prefer to say this situation is rare…I’d be lying. Another thing that strikes me as curious is my lack of the necessity for subsistence. I do not crave food or drink, nor sleep; I only desire the burden that is this labyrinth be lifted. Perhaps the strangest aspect of this world though, is that I know where I want to end up, I have the means by which to reach my destination…I just cannot find the right combination. Each time I try I end up in a different location…I can get fairly close, but never actually reach my destination. The longer and harder I try, the more frustrating this becomes…I’m racking my mind attempting to figure out the right combination to finally get me there, “Left turn. Ascending staircase. Steeper. Right turn. A crevasse…one stone, another, another, another, ano… er, another. Ascending staircase.” Nothing…nothing is working! This is insanity! Perhaps I should just create a pit and simply step off the edge…but wait; would I ever stop falling? Like those first explorers who met their demise at the edge of the earth? No, I cannot give up…I must find the end to this labyrinth.
I grow weary…frantic…erratic…helpess…hopless. I only desire an end. Cannot this simple wish be granted? I care not who answers my prayer…surely Lucifer grants some prayers…fiddle of gold says he’s a part of my predicament, which in itself is a severe understatement. No…no one is here to aid me…no gentle, guiding hand from above; nor mutilated, clenching claw from below…I must conquer this labyrinth on my own. I must keep searching for the end…though I am beginning to believe it cannot be found…is it even possible? “Left turn”, “What have I gotten myself into?” I question as I round another corner.
Academy student leaves golf team
by Derek Packard
The boys have hit a rough spot already in their season. After several loses to Alexandria and Delta the boys suffered do to another loss. This loss came as a player on their team, Jin Yooh a Junior from the Indiana Academy left the team. The team is now down to only four golfers and the season is looking bleak.
Jin left the team for many reasons, but the main were made clear. He had too many academic conflicts with the Academy and the golf team. The number of matches that he was going to be unable to make were a significant amount higher than the number that he could make. There fore there would not be any reason to stay on the team any more.
The boys team is now narrowed down to only four golfers and will mostly be participating for individuals. Some team members are wondering if the team will even be there next year, and if the team is even worth it any more. It looks dim this year for the success of the Boys golf team. The team will press on to the end of the season though.
They will have to forfeit several matches due to the fact that several golf team members will be gone on may term trips. The remaining players durning that time period may golf but it will not have any team impact and they could only win medalist for the event.
Sadly the team is falling apart and the season looks dim for next year. Most kids will not be returning due to family transfers, transferring schools or just too old. This may be the last year for the Burris Boys golf team, and they can only hope that they finish well.
Seniors Prep for College
As the school year winds down, Burris seniors are preparing for the next phase of their educational careers. Acceptance letters have been received and enrollment deposits sent, the next stage for the soon to be college freshmen remains preparation for the fall. “I’ve already been in contact with my roommates, “ said senior Hannah Clemmons, “Now I’m looking for dorm furniture and bedding.” Students are shopping early, accumulating basic supplies and necessities for college life. Shower caddies, towels, sheets, and laundry hampers list among the most basic of freshman year necessities. “I’m worried about fitting all of my clothes and stuff into my dorm room,” says senior Amelia Heintzelman. Not all students have been as focused on the future; “I’m just trying to get through the rest of the year,” said senior Lucas Parsons, attending Ball State University in the fall, “I’ll deal with college prep in the summer.”
A Reminder for Seniors By Hannah Clemmons
Burris seniors Hannah Clemmons and Faulkner Allocco are organizing the senior slide show. All seniors are asked to bring their photos in so that the show my be displayed during Senior Honors Night on May 4.
What seniors need to bring:
- 3-5 pictures of you from their childhood
- 1 senior picture
- ANY group pictures, past or present!
If digital copies can be provided the show will be much more manageable, however, they can be scanned if necessary.
Photos may be brought in or e-mailed to hannybanany2011@comcast.net
Song suggestions are also appreciated.
Difficult Start to Baseball Season
Austin Quinn
Burris baseball is currently over their heads with make up games due to poor weather. Since the season has begun the team has struggled to be able to even practice outside because of all the rain. Weeks ahead have been packed with games which hurts the team physically because of the lack of rest for the team. This coming week they have five games in six days.
Not only does the rain affect the players physically it affects how they do in each game. The team is in desperate need of practice to help clean up little problems they have but can't do so because of the lack of rest and practice. "It seems like even when our games are canceled or we just have scheduled practices we always seem to end up in the gym instead of the field." said outfielder Lucas Parsons. The players use gym time to practice pitching and batting but those are only a few of the problems they have.
The teams average of errors per game has reduced drastically over the past few games which is an upside to everything. "We play differently on the field because each time we get on it, it feels like it's a new experience because we haven't had that much practice on it." said freshman Johnny Norris. The players have used what time they get on the field for practice and the 5 games they've played to clean up on their skills.
It has been a very difficult season for the Owls Baseball team. "I didn't really think it would be this big of a struggle for us but we're getting better so hopefully things will turn around." said sophomore Caleb Pine. The coaches and players fingers are crossed that they rain passes and they can get onto the field and clean up their skills.
Biography of Caleb Pine
Caleb Pine was born on March 6, 1995. He was born in Muncie, Indiana in Ball Memorial Hospital. He is one of three siblings from the lovely Mitchell and Mary-Beth Pine. When Caleb was three his family moved up to Merriville, Indiana near Gary, Indiana. He then began to attend Tater-Tots Preschool. He began to learn his colors, days of the weeks, numbers, and letters. After graduating preschool he then attended Merriville Elementary for one year, but then moved to Albany Elementary till third grade. From third grade to the present time he has attended Burris Laboratory School. Caleb loves to play baseball. He has been playing baseball since he was three. He is now one of our starting players for the Burris baseball team. Caleb loves being active in sports and outdoor activities and loves playing with his dog Duke. Caleb is a very nice respectful young man with a bright future ahead of him.
Owl Walk 2011
Hannah Badger
The Burris Owl walk took place April 22 at the Quad. The whole school met in the quad around one to start the annual Burris Owl Walk. This year the walk was to raised to help support the Library.
The library is in need of new materials. The money raised from the Owl Walk will allow for the library to buy new books and materials that they are in need of. In order to motivate the school the class that raised the most money is going to be awarded a pizza party. Also the person from each the elementary, middle and high school will be given a Books A Million gift card.
The Owl Walk was mandatory for the whole school. The high school students were paired up with elementary or middle school students. The younger students became their “buddy” for the hour. The walk began with Zumba. Zumba is a dance type exercise. The elementary students had been taught the zumba dance in gym class. “It was fun but I did not know what was going on during Zumba,” said Burris senior Katie Hawkins.
The younger kids led the high school kids around to do a number of physical activities. Some of these activities included hurdles, jump rope and racing around cones.
After these activities everyone walked together around the quad and through Christy Woods.
The New Finals Schedule
The new finals schedule is causing uproar among High School students. Instead of the traditional schedule where students took two finals each of the first two days and filled the remainder of their schedule with one hour class periods, then took their last three finals on the third day of finals, students will follow the new schedule which is as follows:
Thursday
8-8:30 – 8 a.m. Class
8:35-9:05 – 9 a.m. Class
9:10 – 9:40 – 10 a.m. Class
9:45 – 10:15 – 11 a.m. Class
10:20 – 10:50 – 12 p.m. Class
10:55 – 11:25 – 1 p.m. Class
11:30 – 12 – 2 p.m. Class
12 – 1 – Lunch
1-3 – 8 a.m. Final
Friday
8-10 – 9 a.m. Final
10-12 – 10 a.m. Final
12-1 – Lunch
1-3 – 11 a.m. Final
Monday
8-10 – 12 p.m. Final
10-12 – 1 p.m. Final
12 – 1-Lunch
1- 3 – 2 p.m. Final
Some upperclassmen are critical of the new schedule after following the old one for the past 7 semesters. Burris Senior Hannah Badger said, “I liked the old schedule better.” Hopefully the new schedule will allow students more time for studying and will give better final results.
Seccessive Strokes
Jesse Etsler
Pounding down upon me like a gavel, driving her hatred to depths from which i could never hope to retrieve it. Each echoing, a chorus in an empty hall. Those successive strokes, decisive and denouncing, powerfully permeating my heart, staining it black with the substance of disdain.
[Counting the days]
Counting the days
left of this parade.
Two weeks till tests
of which I detest
May term will be the end
time to say bye to friends.
Walking out the doors
onto something more.
Burris owls we will be
until we cease to be.
The title will stay
even when we go away.
-Faulkner Allocco
left of this parade.
Two weeks till tests
of which I detest
May term will be the end
time to say bye to friends.
Walking out the doors
onto something more.
Burris owls we will be
until we cease to be.
The title will stay
even when we go away.
-Faulkner Allocco
Thursday, April 21, 2011
AP exams
When asked if she is prepared for the exams, Paige Chambers said, "No, I don't feel like I'm prepared for all of them."
Hannah Clemmons said, "I don't feel like I'm prepared for the exams at all!"
Media students attend Ball State's Journalism Day
Alex Nancarrow
On April 20, 2011 Betsy Ahlersmeyer took her Photography class and yearbook staff to Ball State University’s annual Journalism Day. This is a day when high school students from around the state come to Ball State’s campus to listen to speakers and visit various workshops for the type of publication they are a part of. There were workshops for students who specialize in writing, design, graphics, and more.
At the beginning of the day, students went to Emens Auditorium to listen to some speakers talk about journalism and what the day had in store for them. "I was very intrigued by the subject matter of the keynote speaker," said Burris junior Michelle Jones. The speaker she is talking about is David Studinski, who is a graduate of Ball State University. Studinski spoke about media and how it has been changing with new technologies.
After the presentation at Emens the students walked to the Student Center to partake in many workshops from 10 o’clock to 2 o’clock. The students were able to pick which classes interested them most and participate in them. "The first class I went to was really interesting," said Burris junior Molly Boylan, "I didn't think learning about fonts would be as fun as it was, but the teacher was very enthusiastic and made it entertaining." While walking through the halls of the Student Center, one was also able to take a look at the various booths set up there which offered free items and brochures.
Teacher Evaluations
Being able to give your honest opinion about your teachers is a privilege that Burris students get to have. At the end of each semester students get the opportunity to score and comment on their teachers abilities in an anonymous form. Once all the teachers have been evaluated, the administration collects them and reviews them with the teachers. "I find them (evaluations) very useful. I just wish that they got to spend more time looking at them," junior Maya Halley said.
Though student opinions are valued, the evaluations are to be taken seriously. Administrators only want well thought out and intelligent responses. "Student evaluations of their teachers are important for the teachers and administration to review. It allows us to see the student perceptions of classrooms and their input is valued. We would hope that all students take these seriously and give positive and constructive criticism so that classes can serve the best interests of students as possible," Assistant principal for elementary education and special programs Dawn Miller said.
J-Day Review
Jordan Swoape
Journalism Day was held yesterday on the campus of Ball State University. Several workshops were held were students were exposed to today's emerging form of journalism. The opening of J-day included David Studinski Senior Product Manager for College Media Network at Ball State talked about how important advertising was to today's technology. With Twitter and Facebook advertising campaigns are using innovative ways to show their product. Basically with each product you like or click on your image becomes.
His speech set the pace for the day as many other workshops later on talked about the importance of organization in technology and how to utilize it to its fullest potential. Austin Quinn said, "J-day always teaches me something new and this year it was how extensive google was in their application and uses online."
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Senior Skip Day
By: Tanna Jones
Monday April 18th was senior skip for Burris seniors. The seniors chose Monday because it was following prom weekend. The seniors decided to go to Puerto Vallarta for lunch, meeting at 11:30. “I had fun eating lunch with everyone,” says Burris senior Paige Chambers. Senior Hannah Clemmons says, “I thought it was really funny when we told Puerto that it was Katie Hawkins birthday, and she got whipped creamed in the face.”
After Puerto the class went and played at Westside Park for a couple of hours. Senior Alison Carmichael says, “I was really glad the weather was nice, and it didn’t rain.” After awhile some seniors had to leave for work, and others went on a walk by the river. Around three, everyone went different ways to either hang out or go to practices. All in all senior skip day was a success.
Burris seniors who went on a walk by the river on Senior Skip Day.
photo credit: Amelia Heinzelman
Rain in Indiana
For the past three to four weeks, it seems as all Indiana has dealt with is rain. This rain has caused more than just an unpleasant walk into buildings, but also temperature change, accidents, flooding, and damage to many areas of the state. Indiana is known to be the 26th wettest state in the U.S., but this year it has felt like we have been number one.
The rainfall this year has caused the temperatures in central Indiana to drop down into the lower 50's and 60's, with high winds, making it feel very cool outside. "The weather will be nice and warm and then rain comes and it makes me feel like summer is never going to come." says senior Tanna Jones.
Flooding has been an issue also. Many houses have became unlivable due to basements being destroyed and equipment needed to run a home. My grandmothers rental homes were destroyed in flooding. As rental homes cannot have flood insurance, the people renting these houses were forced to move out. The basements were completely filled with water, ruining the washer and dryer, furnace, and water heater. Also, on one house, the walls of the basement were busted down and part of the side of the house, leaving a hole which was visible from the street. These houses were declared a disaster by the mayor of Muncie. FEMA also had to be brought in to help pay for the damage as it was so expensive. They actually decided the damage was too extreme to fix and the houses are being torn down. House floods pose a problem as now these people have no where to live and must find a home within a matter of days. This is just one example of the rain ruining houses.
All the rain has lead to storms, hail, and tornadoes. This adds to flooding becoming much easier. In February, ARF was completely flooded. An channel 13 article stated, "In the city of Muncie, 5 feet of flood waters damaged the city's Animal Rescue Fund, a non-profit animal shelter near the Delaware County Airport. The shelter evacuated all of its 150 cats and dogs safely to local veterinarians, and will begin finding foster owners for them tonight. None of the animals were injured"
All the rain Indiana has seen this year so far has seemed ridiculous. To many it feels like it rains at least two or three times a week. "I hate rain. It really gets annoying having to walk in it every week. It puts a damper on my mood and it makes everything seem gloomy," says senior Kylie Smith.
On average, Indianapolis sees 126 days of rain a year, 43 thunderstorms, 1 hail storm, 5 severe thunderstorm warnings, and 12 tornado watches. The state averages 41.72 inches of rain each year.
Monday, April 18, 2011
King's Island Countdown
As the summer sun begins to sneak its way into our days, the weather grows warmer and the urge to get out-- to escape the confines of our classrooms and dormitories-- encases us all. It builds up, an exponential growth in restlessness and desire that will erupt in one event: King’s Island. This annual trip, and Academy tradition, falls this year on April 30th. It is on this day that Academites will rise up bright and early, board the buses in unison, and head out for a day of sun, rollercoasters, and overpriced food. After hours and hours of fun, they will return to their comfy beds, collapsing softly, sunburned and sore, but nonetheless content after a great day of fun. "I'm excited to get to be with friends without worrying about the Academy, even if it's only for a day," says Senior Aaron Whiteman, who plans on attending the trip.
Tickets cost $45 and have been on sale. Contact any SLC for information if interested.
Friday, April 15, 2011
You will have Someone's Undying Gratitude
Allison Norton
The Indiana Blood Center dropped by Burris Laboratory School this week on Tuesday April 12. Instead of setting up the donation center in the auditorium, their set-up was in an RV called the Blood Mobile. Signs around Burris guided students out to the loading dock where the RV was parked.
The Indiana Blood Center visits Burris every year, and student council promotes the cause. Students and faculty members, alike, showed up this year to give blood, and even if they have fear of needles, they still go through with the donation. Burris Senior Lucas Parsons said, “I have done this four times and I’m still afraid of the needles.” In my experience, this was the first time I have given blood, and I was nervous about the needles as well, but I had comfort from other donators. Faculty personnel Debra Funk comforted me by saying; “The worse part is probably the finger prick. The other pricks and prodding doesn’t hurt nearly as bad.”
The turn out this year was far more expected. Burris Senior and Key Club President Rachel Rector said, “This year was probably the best turnout there was, Over 16 people signed up to donate but I have heard of others who didn’t sign up and donated as well. We usually only get like 8 to 10 people a year for the blood drive, so this year’s turnout was incredible.” The key club were the promoters and sponsors of this event.
The Walkathon
On Thursday April 21st, in the BSU Quad, from 1:00 to 2:00 pm Burris will be having a walk. The walk will be K-12 grade. This year the proceeds will be donated to the Burris library.
Every student will be participating, every person will get a t-shirt!
Have fun at the "Owl Walk"!!!!
Sailing Into Style
Alison Carmichael
Today, Sperrys are worn mostly by teens, but they have also become popular in the wardrobe of adults as well. Sperrys can be seen being worn with just about any outfit, including jeans, dresses, skirts, and shorts. “I like Sperrys because they’re comfortable and they go with everything.” Said Courtney Harnish. Jennifer Watkins doesn’t own Sperrys but she likes them because they make any outfit put together.
Old Is The New Trend
Lucas Parsons
All over many teens today enjoy incorporating yesterday 's trends into today's fashion. Many will mix their trends together, wearing an 80's skirt with a modern tank top. Retro clothing being brought back has alot to do with influence. in the Popular high-school musical movie you can see the wardrobe style being similar to what kids in the 80's would wear to high school or a get together outside of school. Thrift stores such as Goodwill are becoming more and more popular to buy retro style or used clothing.
Summer Plans
Austin Quinn
62.3% of the students are staying in muncie with a few small out of state trips
2% plan on taking large trips, few said out of the country
15% said they would find themselves inside the classroom getting extra credits or making them up
11% said they could be found on the field or at camp
9.7% said they were going to stay with family elsewhere
100% of the students in the poll said they would be having fun no matter what
Boys golf team
Derek Packard
The Burris Boys Golf Team kicked off their season this week on Tuesday, April 12.
The team consists of only five golfers. The team hopes to pull together a good season even though the team is lacking in numbers. The team participated in three matches this weak one on Tuesday and the following on Thursday. Results were relatively good as a team but could have been better from the individual stance.
The boys team consists of only juniors and seniors this year and only have just enough to make a five-man squad.
Jimmy Tuttle, an Indiana Academy student, is the only senior on the team and is looking to play well again at the two spot after he went to regional’s individually last year. Also from the Indiana Academy is Jin Yooh, who transferred from Plainfield High School. Jin is currently playing the four spot on the team and is hoping to contribute to the team in a positive manner. Alex Phipps, a Burris student, is the number one golfer on the boys team and is hoping to have a good team year as well as continuing to carry on the Burris name in the individuals. Derek Packard, a Burris Junior, has obtained the three spot and wishes to just make the best of the year. Frank Okrup, another Burris Junior, will be golfing at the five spot on varsity.
In the boys first meet this year at Memorial golf course in New Castle, Indiana, the boys took on Liberty Christian and Blue River.
Burris students get a taste of life in jail
Alex Nancarrow
On April 14, 2011 Bradley Canada’s Government class went on its annual field trip to the Delaware County Court and Jail. On this trip they were able to watch some court cases and then take a tour of the jail.
The students were able to observe a series of hearings in the court on Thursday morning. Some of the cases involved defendants setting dates for their trials, plea bargains and even someone being sentenced. After the hearings were over the judge and prosecutor answered some of the questions the students had. When the students were done in the court room they went upstairs to visit the jail.
When going into the jail the students went through a security measures just like anyone else. No one was allowed to have jackets or purses so no one could bring anything in to the inmates.
We first visited the segregation cells which are very small cells where inmates are kept twenty three hours a day. These are for the more dangerous people in the jail. Next the students looked at the different cell blocks. When going down the hall with all of the blocks the security measures would get more and more relaxed, because not all of the inmates are as dangerous as the others.
Some inmates even walked around among the students. Burris senior Paige Chambers said “I liked how the female inmates gave us suggestions on life and how to stay out of jail.” These inmates were allowed to work and wear the color blue, while the other inmates who don’t work wear orange. The students also got to look at the previous gymnasium which has turned into a makeshift meeting room and cell block because of prison overcrowding. The students then got a chance to go to the top and look around the basketball courts on the top of the jail.
After touring another cell block the students were able to get a look at the different sorts of contraband confiscated from the inmates. Some of this contraband included shanks (makeshift knives), other kinds of weapons, pipes, chess sets, origami, fishing poles, golf clubs, and other items.
Jobs because of Connections
Paige Chambers
Many Burris students have jobs, but how did they get such jobs? Many turn in an application and if called back, go through an interview process, then are chosen. Other students obtain their jobs through connections. These connections being family and friends.
Although I still filled out an application and did an interview, I was already told I had the job before. I work as a cashier and carryout at Marsh. My grandpa worked as a meat manager for 42 years at once and knew the manager of the store I was going to work at. He talked to the manager and told her I needed a job and she said I could start right away!
Other students such as seniors Hannah Badger and Katie Hawkins also got their jobs because of connections. They both work for the After School Daycare, Appletree. Badger's mom is the director of the center, so automatically she got a job. She works at the program at Burris for children who do not necessarily need to be at the actual Appletree center. Hawkins also works for Appletree doing laundry and cleaning after all children have left for the night. "I needed a job and Hannah said she could get me one at Appletree. It was helpful knowing someone so I did not have to apply everywhere in town."
Kylie Smith, another Burris senior obtained her job through her step dad. She works at Muncie Novelty inspecting tickets. "I like my job because I like the money", says Smith.
While many students have not had connections in order to get a job, some do. It seems unfair to some, especially those who cannot find a job. But it seems helpful to those students who want to work and have an easy way of accessing it.
Tattoos
Tanna Jones
Burris High School students have found an interest in tattoos. A few students have gotten them and others are waiting until they turn 18. Burris senior Kylie Smith has already gotten five tattoos. "After I got my first one I kept thinking about the next one. They are addicting." Kylie likes her tattoos and is hoping to get more. Students should know they can become addictive and this can be very costly. Senior Hannah Badger has a tattoo that has music notes and hearts that represent her love for music.
Some students such as senior Paige Chambers are waiting till their 18th birthday. "The tattoo I am getting is going to be in memory of my grandpa that died last year." Tattoos can give meaning to a person and to remember someone by. Senior Hannah Clemmons is waiting to get a meaningful tattoo after she is done with volleyball. "The tattoo is going to say, "Trust the unseen."
An interesting tattoo I found online that was very shocking to me was a Rebecca Black tattoo. A 19-year old boy decided he wanted to stick up for her and his way of doing so was by getting a tattoo. You can read the full article at http://clutch.mtv.com/2011/04/14/rebecca-black-tattoo.He says he actually likes her and feels bad that people are bashing her but I think the tattoo was for publicity.
Kylie Smith's first tattoo of five.
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