Best of Boone 2020

May 16, 2020

The Appalachian BEST OF

BOONE

BEST OF

LIFEST YLE

Courtesy of University Highlands

BEST OFF-CAMPUS HOUSING/BEST PLACE TO LIVE WITH ROOMMATES

UNIVERSITY HIGHLANDS Ben Brady // Reporter

Year in and year out, University Highlands remains one of the most sought-after apartment complexes for App State students to live in. Located just two miles from campus and featuring convenient AppalCart access, the Highlands allow students a no-hassle commute to campus.

There are also various shops and restaurants, such as The Pedalin’ Pig and Taqueria El Paso, within a short distance of the apartment complex. University Highlands also features an extensive array of on-site amenities, like a clubhouse and fireside lounge. The complex also features a complete fitness center with a swimming pool, jacuzzi, sundeck, and tennis, basketball and volleyball courts.

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Brendan Hoekstra

Hayley Canal

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Lindsey Vaughn

BEST THRIFT STORE ANNA BANANA’S Dan Davidson // Associate Sports Editor

Anna Bannana’s is located in the heart of downtown Boone on the corner of Depot and King streets. The store offers a wide variety of fashionable clothing at walletfriendly prices. Anna Banana’s is known for its unique atmosphere. The store strives to create a warm and friendly environment, and even offers a 10% discount to customers who dance before checking out. For those looking to consign with Anna Banana’s, the store accepts drop-offs on Mondays between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. In exchange, the store offers 40% of the total resale amount if all items sell within the first 30 days. They ask that drop-offs consist of 15 or fewer items that are in style, in season, in perfect condition, folded, pressed and cleaned, and secured in a sturdy bag. Anna Banana’s is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays.

BEST HAIRCUT HAIRCUT 101 Dan Davidson // Associate Sports Editor

When it comes to getting a fresh haircut or hair coloring, there’s no better place in Boone than Haircut 101. The salon has provided the community with the latest hair styling and coloring techniques since 1989, and strives to provide its clients with remarkable results in a positive environment. At Haircut 101, education is key. Keeping up to date with the latest styles, techniques and products is crucial to ensuring its clients receive the best treatment. Haircut 101 also emphasizes communication by listening to clients’ needs to guarantee they receive optimal results. Haircut 101 is located on Depot Street and open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays.

BEST PLACE TO BUY APP STATE GEAR MOUNTAINEER MANIA Kaiden Smith // Senior Reporter

Mountaineer Mania has become a staple in Boone as the place to get App State gear. Located on King Street, Mountaineer Mania has been around since 1981 and offers a wide variety of apparel for all ages and sizes. Mountaineer Mania is also a great place to buy accessories like stickers, cups and car decals. Whether you’re looking for an App State gift for a family member, or something for yourself, Mountaineer Mania is the place to go. The store is under new ownership and is currently being renovated and renamed The Mountaineer, which opened an online store May 8.

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BEST HIKING TRAIL/ BEST LOOKOUT ROUGH RIDGE Cameron Burnett // Reporter

On the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Rough Ridge trail is part of the larger Tanawha trail. This trail is 0.8 miles long filled with rocky paths and steep hills. The path starts with a bridge to a rocky trail and leads up to a boardwalk near the top that gives a view of the mountains and leads to a path to climb the nearby rocks for iconic pictures and even better views. The trail is known for climbable rock formations that are perfect for pictures. Sixteen miles away from campus, this trail is well known in the High Country as the premier hiking spot.

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Max Correa

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BEST LIVE MUSIC/BEST WINGS/BEST WEEKLY DEAL TAPP ROOM Brooke Drury // Reporter

The music scene in Boone is up and coming, and what better way to enjoy the best live music than with a tray of delicious wings and a tasty drink at TApp Room? TApp Room is a Boone staple for cold beer, hot wings and good music— all tied together with amazing deals. Some of their most tempting specials include Monday’s 45 cent regular or boneless wings and Fridays’ $3 House whiskey/Bourbon drinks.

On sunny weekday afternoons, the outside patio is sure to be crowded with locals and college students enjoying their beverage of choice. On weekend nights, the TApp Room stage frequently features a local band rocking out while visitors enjoy the tunes and refreshments.

Owned by App State alumni, TApp Room is a strong supporter of App State athletics, and is a favorite spot among students. Whether you’re looking for a night dancing to local music or a 5 o’clock happy hour, TApp Room is a sure-fire choice for a great time. TApp Room is a crowd favorite for music, wings, and deals and always has a lively atmosphere to match.

BEST KARAOKE/BEST BAR RIVERS STREET ALE HOUSE Meredith Nanney // Reporter

Rivers Street Ale House is a sports bar, restaurant and live music venue located on Rivers Street, just below the Student Recreation Center. Rivers Street Ale House is known for its weekly specials and Mountaineer gameday tailgates. Rivers Street Ale House is popular among students for its Wing Night/College Night on Thursdays. Wings are available for 45 cents starting at 4 p.m. College Night features DJ Hamilton and is open to those who are 18 and up. Rivers Street Ale House has a wide selection of domestic, import and craft beers, as well as a rotating beer selection, so there is always something new to try. Every weekend, Rivers Street Ale House features live music, and on Sundays during football season, it televises all NFL games in the bar and Carolina Panthers games on a projection screen.

Rivers Street Ale House is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to midnight.

BEST TRIVIA NIGHT GALILEO’S Silas Albright // Sports Editor

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Every season, Galileo’s hosts one of the restaurant’s most popular events: weekly trivia night. With topics ranging from “The Office” to Disney movies, Galileo’s’ trivia night offers something new for its participants each week. Customers can also enjoy a meal, such as the popular fried shrimp tacos, and a local beer as they compete with their friends. Galileo’s is located on West King Street beside the Temple of the High Country. According to its website, Galileo’s hosts trivia night every Wednesday from 8-10 p.m.. The restaurant and bar also features darts and billiards.

Jesse Barber

Brendan Hoekstra

Brendan Hoekstra

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BEST TATTOO ARTIST CUTTY BAGE Joey Magnani // Reporter

Cutty Bage is a tattoo artist from Austin, Texas, who works at Hollow Moon Tattoo located at 200 A Den Mac Drive. Hollow Moon is a private tattoo and art studio for Bage and her apprentice, Allison Langewisch, offering custom tattoos, according to its website. Bage also has her own website where she sells prints, shirts, bandanas and phone accessories. She specializes in horror-themed pieces, but enjoys doing tattoos of all sorts. She operates by appointment only, but is not currently accepting new clients.

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Brendan Hoekstra

BEST LOCAL BAND GALLOWAY Jayson James // Reporter

Best local band Galloway consists of five guys who base their roots on appealing to the quaint little college town of Boone. Their mix of indie, pop, and rock genres makes them a must-listen for all ages.

Galloway has received a lot of recognition from residents of Boone since releasing it’s first EP, “Think It Over,” in September 2019. Since then, the band has continued to climb the popularity charts. It’s most popular song on Spotify, titled “Boys Like You”, has over 12,000 streams. The band’s fun and upbeat style makes you feel like you’re sitting on the beach or cruising down the road in the summertime with the windows down.

BEST TATTOO SHOP SPEAKEASY TATTOO Joey Magnani // Reporter

Speakeasy Tattoo Co. is located on King Street, across from the fire department, where it opened for operation in November of 2008. Appointments are preferred but not required, and all tattoos are done with 100% organic ink. The studio also accepts walkins when available, and offers a free consultation according to its website. Its hours of operation are 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 12 p.m to 6 p.m. on Sundays. Mark Matthijs, Logan Issacson and Alex Henderson are the main tattoo artists, and each has their own specialty. Henderson, who began working in 2005, enjoys “bright, bold tattooing, as well as the traditions of Japanese Irezumi and American traditional,” according to its website. Hannah Stockon, senior psychology major at App State, described her two experiences at Speakeasy as “friendly” and “cooperative.” “They were willing to work with me and took my ideas into consideration,” Stockton said.

Courtesy of Galloway

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Brendan Hoekstra

BEST SWIMMING HOLE TRASH CAN FALLS Connor Davidson // Associate Multimedia Editor

As soon as the weather gets warm in Boone, many students spend more time outside. For anyone looking for a place to cool off, Trash Can Falls is the place to be. Trash Can Falls is everything a swimming hole needs to be. There are 15 and 30-foot-high rocks to jump off of into the frigid mountain water accompanied by scenic views. All of this wonder is also easily accessible. Located on a short hike off of U.S Highway 321 10 miles away from Boone, Trash Can Falls is a must-visit place for anyone looking for a refreshing dip and a great experience outside.

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BEST PLACE TO BIKE GREENWAY Silas Albright // Sports Editor

The Boone Greenway is a system of gravel and paved trails next to the Watauga County Recreation Complex and the fields off of State Farm Road. The trails weave through the forest and along the South Fork of the New River. The Greenway is flatter than many of the other trails that are at higher elevations in the High Country, making it great for cyclists that aren’t looking for an intense up-and-down workout. The trail crosses multiple scenic bridges, weaves through meadows and forests, and passes by a historic ruin. Its beautiful scenery and landscape paired with its ease of accessibility makes it an ideal spot for anyone in Boone looking to get outside.

Braxton Coats

Halle Keighton

BEST SKI MOUNTAIN SUGAR MOUNTAIN Connor Davidson //Associate Multimedia Editor

When Boone begins to cool down and snow begins to fall, many students flock to the ski slopes for an escape from the winter blues. Sugar Mountain has proved itself the best ski mountain with its 21 slopes and 125 skiable acres, including 1,200 feet in vertical drop. This leaves plenty of space for skiers to race down to the bottom, kicking up snow as they fly down the slopes. Sugar Mountain offers a discount to North Carolina and Tennessee college students Monday through Thursday and Sunday nights. With slopes of varying difficulties and length, skiers of any level are sure to have a great time.

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BEST LANDMARK THE ROCK Silas Albright // Sports Editor

It’s no secret that App State is a football school. The Mountaineers made history in 2019, going 13-1 and becoming the highest-ranked team in school and Sun Belt Conference history. Kidd Brewer Stadium, the home of the Mountaineers, is known by App State faithful simply as “The Rock.” The name comes from a large boulder sitting in the concourse outside the stadium. It has become one of the most well-known spots and iconic photo opportunities for App State students and game day visitors. It’s also a sight that opposing teams have come to fear, as the Mountaineers have lost just four times at home in the past five seasons.

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Jesse Barber

Jesse Barber

BEST FISHING SPOT PRICE LAKE Cameron Burnett // Reporter

Price Lake is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway and is popular for fishing, hiking and camping. Trout primarily live in the lake, but it is also home to smallmouth bass. The lake isn’t just a simple fishing hole, but a great camping site. The campground has 129 tent sites and 68 RV sites, allowing for a large population of campers at any time while giving campers many options for areas to stay and creating diversity in the experience. The convenience of the campground allows for fishing trips to be more accessible, as visitors can stay on the campgrounds right next to the lake. The calm atmosphere of a campground right next to a lake that is known as the best fishing spot in the area make this a great attraction for anyone in Boone.

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Brendan Hoekstra

BEST PLACE TO LIVE ALONE

THE LOFTS Jackie Park // Editor-in-Chief

Gated entry, an AppalCart stop, spacious rooms and big, sunny windows are the trademarks of The Lofts at University Hall. These one bedroom, one bathroom units are situated half a mile from Boone Mall and Harris Teeter and one mile from App State’s campus.

This complex gives its residents plenty of spots to pack in their clothes with large closets and enough quiet time to relax and rewind through a quietneighbor policy. Some residents say it’s “the best place I have ever lived” according to its website.

All in all, The Lofts provides exemplary amenities in a great place for solo living.

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Brendan Hoekstra

BEST BOOKSTORE FOGGY PINE BOOKS Ben Brady // Reporter

Located on King Street, Foggy Pine Books stands as a meeting place for literature lovers in Boone, holding meetings for various book clubs. Opened four years ago by App State alumna Mary Ruthless, Foggy Pine Books sells new and used books for people of all ages. The shop’s contents range from bestsellers to works from independent publishers and local writers. While events are on hold at the moment due to the COVID-19 outbreak, each month, Foggy Pine chooses a book to feature for its book club. On the last Saturday of every month, members of the club are invited to discuss the book.

While the store is closed at the moment, they are accepting phone and email orders, and are offering digital audiobooks.

BEST RENTAL COMPANY SOFIELD PROPERTIES Jayson James // Reporter

Sofield Rental Properties took home the title for the best rental company in Boone. Sofield has rental properties in Boone, Jefferson, and Mountain City, offering apartments, condos and homes. Their convenient locations with easy walking and biking access to local restaurants, shopping, and App State’s campus make these properties highly sought after for many Boone residents.

BEST PET-FRIENDLY COMPLEX

BAVARIAN VILLAGE

Jackie Park // Editor-in-Chief

At Bavarian Village, cats, dogs and other pets are not just welcome, “they are considered family,” according to its website.

Furry friends can live in your apartment or townhouse with a $250-350 one-time pet fee and a monthly fee ranging from $20-30 per pet. Residents are allowed to have two pets, at most, that weigh no more than 100 pounds, combined.

Make sure you complete the pet screening profile before you move in that new cat tree or dog bed, though.

Some Bavarian Village properties offer small gardens for residents, providing your pet with plenty of room to roam and play outside.

With AppalCart access and convenient location near App State’s campus, the Blue Ridge Parkway and other parks, traveling around Boone with your four-legged companion has never been easier.

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BEST OF Jesse Barber

CAMPUS LIFE

Courtesy of App State

BEST PLACE TO STUDY SOLARIUM Tucker Wulff // Associate A&C Editor

Trickling water and light chatter offer the perfect background for a productive study session alone or with a small group of friends in the “Best Place to Study� in Boone. The Summit Trail Solarium, located in the Plemmons Student Union, is filled with lush green plants and features running waterfalls and a small multipurpose stage. Students are welcome to take to the stage and play a piece on the piano.

The Solarium is sprinkled with tables and chairs on both the main and balcony levels providing plenty of space for busy students to knock out assignments.

One of the most popular study spots is on the balcony level of the Solarium in the lounge-style chairs, which overlook the areas below. Conveniently located near Crossroads Coffee House, the Solarium also offers quick access to a mid-study caffeine jolt.

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BEST PLACE TO ENO SANFORD MALL Tucker Wulff // Associate A&C Editor

If Mountaineers know one thing, it’s how to make the most of a sunny Boone day, and there’s nothing better than a couple of hours relaxing in an Eno. Sanford Mall is simply the best spot for a day of hammocking, thanks to the numerous Eno-worthy trees and wide-open spaces. Sanford Mall is also often the host of entertaining student activities like slacklining and tree climbing.

You may even witness musical groups playing their favorite tunes or skaters rolling across campus. All of these activities provide a great backdrop to tie up an Eno, lay back and relax. Sanford Mall is located in the center of App State and connects the east and west sides, making it an easy spot to reach from anywhere on campus.

Jesse Barber

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BEST ELECTIVE

HISTORY OF ROCK MUSIC

Gianna Holiday // Associate News Editor

Jesse Barber

BEST DINING HALL ROESS DINING HALL (CENTRAL) Xanayra Marin-Lopez // Multimedia Editor

Commonly known as “Central,” Roess Dining Hall serves hundreds of hungry students, staff and faculty every day.

Anyone on campus can enjoy meals between classes, have breakfast before game day or share a dinner with friends.

Selections such as the original chicken sandwich at ChickFil-A, a pumpkin spice frappuccino at Conrad’s Coffee Company and a customized burrito at Habanero’s Fresh Cantina can be found on the lower level in Sanford Commons.

Rivers Street Cafe, in the upper level, offers plant-based dining at Terra Verde, custom stir-fry and pasta bowls at Noodle Works, salads at The Fresh Market, soups and a buildyour-own baked potato bar. From Tex-Mex cuisine to homestyle southern cooking, Central Dining Hall caters to the many different tastes customers have.

Students have the opportunity to learn about rock legends from The Beatles to Elvis to 80s hair metal in History of Rock Music.

This music class provides students with a unique learning experience that is fun, creative and educational, yet not your run-of-the-mill gen-ed class. Getting class credit for listening to (and studying) rock music is an experience highly unique to App State.

The class introduces the study of musical groups, soloists and styles related to the evolution of rock music, and related social, historical and political events.

Michael Wade of the History Department has taught this class in the past because of his specialization in rock ‘n’ roll.

Topics range from pre-rock influences and rock music from the late 1940s through significant developments of the late twentieth century.

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BEST SORORITY KAPPA DELTA Jackie Park // Editor-in-Chief

Courtesy of Alpha Kappa Alpha

BEST NPHC ORGANIZATION

ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. Emily Bryoles // News Editor

The Omicron Kappa Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated was chartered on App State’s campus in 1987 as the first black Greek-letter organization on the mountain. With 112 years of sisterhood, the sorority is celebrating its 32nd year on campus.

The sorority’s mission includes cultivating strong relationships among women with academics and the community. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated is also dedicated “to be of ‘Service to All Mankind,’” according to its website.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated has five Program Targets of Service: HBCU for Life: A Call to Action, Women’s Healthcare and Wellness, Building Your Economic Legacy, The Arts and Global Impact. The Omicron Kappa Chapter has done community service with resources in Boone like the Hunger and Health Coalition and the Watauga Humane Society.

The nine “Oh’So Klassy ladies” of the chapter, led by president Ayah Hatcher, have hosted events such as making vision boards while setting goals, a Bahamas relief drive after Hurricane Dorian and a cycling class.

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Founded in 1973, App State’s Epsilon Epsilon chapter of Kappa Delta is one of 169 national chapters of the organization.

Its best-known philanthropy event, the Shamrockin’ Pancake Dinner, raises money for Prevent Child Abuse America and the Children’s Council of Watauga County. This year, despite not being able to host a dinner, Epsilon Epsilon raised $16,378.37. The chapter also works with the Girl Scouts and can be spotted in Plemmons Student Union each spring selling Girl Scout Cookies with local troops. Kappa Delta also supports the Confidence Coalition and lives by the motto “Building Confidence. Inspiring Action.”

BEST FRATERNITY DELTA SIGMA PHI Jackie Park // Editor-in-Chief

The Iota Lambda chapter of Delta Sigma Phi fraternity was established at App State in 2015. The fraternity’s mission, “building better men,” hopes to develop its members into men of courage, excellence and action. The fraternity’s national philanthropy is the American Red Cross and its members frequently volunteer locally and on App State’s campus to support the Red Cross.

The Iota Lambda chapter also supports Hunter’s Heroes, an organization that honors police, medical and military officers in North Carolina and across the United States with a bubble soccer tournament each fall.

Courtesy of Kappa Delta

Courtesy of Delta Sigma Phi

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Jesse Barber

BEST RESIDENCE HALL EAST HALL Mickey Hutchings // Managing Editor

Despite typical App State students’ woes of on-campus housing, like no air conditioning and shared bathrooms and kitchens, East Hall residents won’t complain.

This underclassmen residence hall has been on App State’s campus for decades, and students can expect spacious rooms, nice views of East Campus and easy access to Plemmons Student Union, Roess Dining Hall, Sanford Mall, Durham Park and academic buildings like I.G. Greer and Appalachian Hall. East even has its own courtyard where students are often spotted playing guitar and tossing Frisbee discs.

Students might even have a brush with the paranormal in this dorm.

Over the years, residents have reported stories of strange occurrences like pictures inexplicably falling off of walls and doors opening on their own.

The Free Store and Food Resource Hub are both located on the bottom floor of East Hall. Whether your meal plan balance runs out or you’re running low on cash, anyone can pick up food, school supplies and basic hygiene items for free. You can also find clothes in the Free Store for your big interview or to bundle up in during those cold Boone days.

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BEST ON CAMPUS LIVING EAST

BEST HIDDEN GEM DURHAM PARK

Mickey Hutchings // Managing Editor

Cole Elledge // Reporter

Named after former acting provost and interim chancellor Harvey Durham, Durham Park is located on East Campus. Among the iconic sights in the park are the App State sign and the Founder’s Plaza. Walkers, joggers and bicyclists are all common on the walkways. The park itself has a gazebo to relax in. The bubbling waters of Boone Creek snake past the park’s green knolls, breathing life into the park’s appearance. App State students can be found sitting in hammocks and on the banks of Boone Creek studying or relaxing. Many visitors also bring their dogs. Students can ditch their cars after 5 p.m. in parking lots between App State’s “best hidden gem” and B.B. Dougherty Building to enjoy all the life Durham Park has to offer.

Halle Keighton

Home to the Plemmons Student Union, Sanford Mall, Durham Park, Belk Library and Information Commons and Central Dining Hall, it’s no wonder East Campus was voted the better half of App State’s campus this year.

You can grab a coffee from Crossroads or a meal from McAllister’s, visit your favorite organization’s hub or go for a quick jog at the Mt. Mitchell Fitness Centre in the Student Union.

On warmer days, you can spot students hammocking, slacklining, playing sports, sun tanning or just hanging out with friends on Sanford Mall. On some occasions, you can spy a lone bagpiper blaring melodies and students crowding around a religious protestor.

Need a place to hunker down for a late night study session? Belk Library and Information Commons is your place. Keep the momentum going with a shot of espresso from the Wired Scholar or enjoy a break from the noise on the third floor dedicated to silent studying.

Take advantage of the Inspire Maker Lab and technology check-out desk in the basement to add some flare to your class project.

The often-forgotten Durham Park is home to the iconic App State sign and new Founder’s Plaza, the perfect backdrops for your next Instagram post. A small creek runs through the park providing a pleasant soundtrack while you’re reading, picnicking or hanging out with friends.

Voted the Best Dining Hall, students can treat themselves to Chick-fil-A nuggets, custom pasta dishes from Noodle Works and delicious vegetarian and plant-based dishes from Terra Verde.

Beautiful outdoor scenes, yummy meals and peaceful study spaces are waiting for you on East Campus.

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Tess Orr

BEST ORGANIZATIONS

APP EDUCATORS AND SWIM CLUB Abi Pepin // Reporter

App State has so many great organizations, there couldn’t just be one winner. Although App State’s Swim Club season was cut short due to COVID-19, they were able to compete in meets at the University of Tennessee and the University of South Carolina. With over 50 members, its dedicated athletes meet to practice at the SRC three times a week.

With seven different committees, App Educators work hard to support education. The club is open to anyone majoring or interested in education. App Educators is focused on giving back to campus, as well to the community. They play a big role in major events like Homecoming, Dance Marathon, Spooky Duke, Social Justice Summit, and App Builds A Home.

They also plan their Shining Light project every year to help families in need during the holidays. The club meets every other Wednesday at 5:30 pm in Reich College of Education in Room 214. The members have continued to meet virtually for the rest of the school year.

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Max Correa

BEST FITNESS CLASS INDOOR CYCLING

Courtesy of App State

Jackie Park // Editor-in-Chief

Fluorescent lights and the clank of weightlifters may not be the first signs of an invigorating ride, but as soon as your butt hits the seat in an indoor cycling class at Quinn Recreation Center, get ready to work. Instructors queue EDM, rock, pop and other remixes to energize their classes as heart rates rise and stress levels drop. With each click of a knob to increase resistance, participants are guided on a wild ride with ups and downs, pushups, sprints and jumps that get their minds and bodies in shape almost every day of the week. From Cycle 30 for beginners to Cycle X for the die-hard fans, there’s a class for everyone. Each and every participant can expect to leave drenched in sweat with legs that feel like jelly and a fitness tracker that’s screaming “great workout” each and every time.

BEST P.E. CLASS SNOWBOARDING Gianna Holiday // Associate News Editor

Students are able to find outdoor adventure not far from campus. Boone is home to a number of mountain ski resorts residents and visitors alike take to in the colder months.

At Appalachian Ski Mountain, App State offers students an alpine snowboarding class.

Beginners should not worry about ending up in the snow — they have time to learn to find their snow legs.

Classes for newbies are offered yearly in the spring, meeting one night a week typically from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. The class allows students to develop basic snowboarding skills and knowledge with topics including history, terminology, wellness, safety, equipment, etiquette and navigation techniques.

BEST PROFESSOR MISTY MAYFIELD Abi Pepin // Reporter

According to Rate My Professor, 100% of students who have attended one of Misty Mayfield’s classes, would take it again.You can find App State’s best professor in Rankin Science West teaching Geography and Planning.

After graduating from App State in 2002 with a master’s degree in geography, Mayfield began teaching and advising students at App State.

Mayfield is loved by her students because of how passionate she is about what she teaches. Students say she sometimes gets sidetracked when teaching because how much she loves the material and wants to share everything she knows. Students love that Mayfield keeps her material interesting and relevant to what’s happening today. Even if students are taking one of her classes in general education, you are guaranteed to learn valuable information that can be applied outside of her class. When Mayfield isn’t teaching, she is the faculty adviser for App Builds A Home, an organization that works with Habitat for Humanity to build a house for a local family in need.

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Brendan Hoekstra

BEST BUILDING PLEMMONS STUDENT UNION Xanayra Marin-Lopez // Multimedia Editor

Special interest clubs, religious organizations, Greek life and more gather every day in one of the many available rooms for reservation in the Plemmons Student Union to hold meetings and operate as groups. Common social spots for students include the Hawksbill Game Room and the Greenbriar Theater. Opened in 1967, the union is considered the hub of student life. Students can study in the Solarium on the first floor, enjoy a meal at McAlister’s on the second, exercise at Mt. Mitchell Life Fitness Center on the third and enjoy events at the Parkway Ballroom on the fourth. Departmental and student offices are housed here, including the Career Exploration Office, International Appalachian and the Dean of Students office.

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BEST BATHROOMS LIBRARY Emily Broyles // News Editor

Whether you’re stressed about that exam or maybe had a little too much espresso from Wired Scholar, the library’s bathrooms have your back. Midterm season or not, they’re always clean and quiet for students to access. Students can expect this experience on each of the library’s four floors, with granite countertops and automatic-flush toilets. Sustainable features, such as automatic towel dispensers and toilet bowls that save water, solidify how these bathrooms are the best on campus while staying true to App State’s eco-friendly mission.

Mickey Hutchings

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BEST SCULPTURE GRASS WITH DEW DROP/ RAINDROP Cole Elledge // Reporter

As students pour out to various locations on campus, they often pass a simple yet gorgeous sculpture. Located by the stairs leading down to Roess Dining Hall, Raindrop, also known as Grass with Dew Drop, is an abstract piece that blends metal and sharp movements with natural themes. A sphere, the small drip of water, is seated between two bending arches, the blades of grass. A third arch bends horizontally to the two arches holding the sphere. The sculpture has a brilliant sheen, featuring shades of pink, yellow, and bluish-silver. The sculpture is a centerpiece at Sanford Mall, often surrounded by students sitting just below the piece on the surrounding bricks or nearby on low brick rises and grassy ground.

Jesse Barber

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BEST ON-CAMPUS COFFEE SHOP CROSSROADS Jackie Park // Editor-in-Chief

Students, faculty and visitors alike are pulled in from every entrance to the Plemmons Student Union by one smell: coffee. Crossroads is an on-campus oasis for homework doing, caffeine consuming and infinite gabbing. Dim lights, good tunes and the sticky-sweet smell of coffee grace each patron’s senses upon entering the shop, where they can order everything from a drip coffee from Mountain Lion Coffee Roasters in Boone to a crusty, tangy cheddar and spinach scone that once called Stick Boy Bread Company home. Its central location and smiling baristas always guarantee a search for a table in the popular spot, but each visit will leave caffeine fiends and bookworms alike with a smile on their face and an aromatic drink in hand.

Jesse Barber

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BEST OF

FOOD Dallas Linger

Brendan Hoekstra

BEST PLACE TO TAKE YOUR PARENTS/ BEST BURGER COMEBACK SHACK Meredith Nanney // Reporter

Come Back Shack opened its original Boone location in 2011 and has been serving high-quality locally-sourced fast food ever since. It serves hand-pattied burgers made from fresh, neverfrozen USDA ground chuck and local ground beef sourced from North Fork Farm in Zionville.

Chicken served at Come Back Shack is hand-breaded, all-natural, never frozen, cage-free, and hormone and antibiotic-free. It is well known for its hand-cut french fries served with toppings and homemade sauces and dressings, such as its namesake Come Back sauce. After the success of its original location, Come Back Shack opened a North Charleston, South Carolina location in 2018. Besides its food, Comeback Shack is also known for supporting the Boone community through its Percentage Night fundraising opportunities. Come Back Shack is located at 1521 Blowing Rock Rd and is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

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Becca Bridges

BEST MEXICAN-INSPIRED CUISINE LOS ARCOIRIS Brooke Drury // Reporter

Boone offers several impressive Mexican inspired cuisine options, but nothing quite hits home like Los Arcoiris. This humble Mexican restaurant located on Boone Heights Drive is an iconic spot in town. Whether you’re looking for a post-game day celebration or a late-night queso fix, Los Arcoiris is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. For 28 years, Los Arcoiris has offered authentic Mexican food to the Boone community.

When diners walk into Los Arcoiris, they are warmly greeted by southwestern inspired decor and hand-painted murals that create an inviting atmosphere for a delicious meal. Los Arcoiris welcomes friends and family alike to sit down and enjoy a freshly prepared Mexican meal together. When looking to indulge in a Mexican feast, nothing is better than opening a large menu overflowing with mouthwatering options. From their burritos to their chimichangas, Los Arcoiris’ menu is sure to please.

Meat eaters, vegetarians and everyone in between can find something to satisfy their cravings, making Los Arcoiris the best Mexican inspired cuisine in Boone.

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BEST FOOD TRUCK EL TACCORIENDO Camryn Collier // Reporter

When the red truck with the words “Authentic Mexican Street Food” on the side comes to town, it’s a must-stop shop. A welcoming, friendly and genuine atmosphere, El Taccoriendo is the Best Food Truck for the second year in a row. Featuring tacos, tortas, quesadillas, burritos, and the ever-famous chicken, rice, cheese and onion combination called the ACP wrap, the truck is run by couple Alejandro and Ashley Leon. The truck started running in 2016, and currently travels between locations in Lenoir and Boone on a day-by-day basis. The truck also serves Mexican sodas and churros, and features a variety of vegetarian options. Prices range from around $2 to $11. While in Boone, the truck is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The couple is opening a Mexican goods shop on 415 Blowing Rock Rd next to TApp Room called El Barrio Mexican Goods. The space has acted as the new parking spot for El Taccoriendo, which used to park on Howard Street.

Courtesy of Los Arcoiris

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Dallas Linger

BEST PLACE TO BUY PRODUCE WATAUGA COUNTY FARMERS MARKET Marlen Cardenas // Reporter

With vendors selling fresh produce, crafts, arts, and music filling the air, it is no wonder the Watauga County Farmers’ Market continues to be considered the town square of the High Country since 1974. The market has over 50 vendors, including Cottonwood Handmade, Tallarico Healing Art, Devorah Chocolates, Everybody’s Loaded Biscuits, Hillbilly Joe’s Crafty Stuff, Madeline Fine Pastries, Sweet Fluff Gourmet Cotton Candy and many more. The market sells handcrafted jewelry, flowers, locally-farmed meats, therapeutic oils, locally roasted coffee, chocolate, pastries and art. Although vendors do not accept EBT cards, customers who receive benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program can stop by the manager’s booth to swipe their card for Beet Bucks tokens. These tokens have monetary value and can be spent with any vendor displaying the Beet Bucks sign, according to the Watauga County Farmers’ Market website. The market is located in the Horn in the West Amphitheater parking lot and is open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. May through October and 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in November.

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BEST PLACE TO TAKE A FIRST DATE

COBO

Zack Antrum // Senior Reporter

COBO offers sushi and other Asian cuisine and many custom-mixed drinks. Located next to the Local on Howard Street, CoBo is known for its half-priced sushi roll nights.

It’s unique menu has things such as the CoBo Margarita, made with wasabi, and special sushi rolls such as the Yosef, made with tuna, panko shrimp, crab, avocado, nitsume and spicy aioli. The atmosphere is what makes it a great place for a first date though. The modern interior design and things such as the lighting and seating create a vibe that is sure to earn a second date.

MIckey Hutchings

BEST ASIAN-INSPIRED CUISINE SABEING Elaina Woodlief // Reporter

Sabeing Boone King offers a combination of Thai, Vietnamese and sushi dishes made from fresh ingredients. The menu features Thai combination dishes, such as pho and pork rice. Sabeing also has a variety of popular and unique sushi rolls, including the King Street Roll. Located on King Street, Sabeing offers authentic dishes with an inviting atmosphere, kind staff and affordable prices that bring customers to this restaurant time after time.

Sabeing doesn’t offer alcohol on its menu, but its unique BYOB feature allows customers to bring their own beverages to enjoy with their meal. Sabeing is open for lunch and dinner from 11:30 a.m to 9 p.m.

Brendan Hoekstra

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Brendan Hoekstra

BEST NEW BUSINESS LILY’S SNACK BAR Rachel Greenland // Reporter

There’s a reason Boone’s Best New Business is packed every weekend night: Lily’s Snack Bar guarantees its customers “a real cool time.” Lily’s took over the building next to TApp Room after a multitude of other restaurants held its space, but it appears Lily’s is here to stay. While ensuring a safe environment with a zero tolerance policy for misogyny, racism, homophobia and sexism, Lily’s claims to serve the “dankest” sandwiches and drinks. But, these aren’t your normal bar drinks. Lily’s is known for its creative take on classic adult and children’s drinks, but all cocktails require a legal drinking age. Some of App State students’ favorites are the Hula, Hula, served in a juice pouch, and Waking Up Weird, which is made with a Yoo-hoo, Lunazul Reposado and Cayenne cold brew. Located across the street from Holmes Convocation Center, it’s no wonder App State students have made this funky, creative space their favorite new business.

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Moss Brennan

BEST OFF-CAMPUS COFFEE SHOP HATCHET COFFEE Ansley Puckett // A&C Editor

Hatchet Coffee is a Boone staple where you can often find App State students and community members alike studying and enjoying a cup of coffee at Hatchet’s Den Mac Drive location. Serving classics like lattes, cappuccinos, drip coffee and nitro, Hatchet is sure to satisfy your caffeine needs before or after a long day. Customers can also enjoy a smoothie or snack from Hatchet’s new food menu, which includes avocado toast or your choice of Stick Boy Bread & Co. bagels. For those who want to try something different, Hatchet offers specialty drinks like the “Warm Hug,” made with espresso, milk, Blue Ridge Apiaries honey and cinnamon. If you’re craving something other than coffee, try the vegan Indigo Smoothie, made with blueberries, banana, almond butter, Earl Grey tea, oat milk and granola. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to see why Hatchet is a Boone favorite

Halle Keighton

BEST LOCAL BREWERY AMB Christina Beals // Reporter

Located near Boone Mall, the brewery and tasting room voted Boone’s best brewery offers seven types of beer found in local grocery stores and restaurants, 13 different types of beer currently on tap and over 100 seasonal beers and ciders on rotation throughout the year. To go along with its eclectic beer selection, Appalachian Mountain Brewery has an inviting tasting room to match. The brewery features a 120-foot-long outdoor bar overlooking Boone Creek and a heated porch for enjoying local beer in colder temperatures.

Beyond beer, Appalachian Mountain Brewery reaches out to the Boone community through outreach programs, such as its Pints for NonProfits program, in which the brewery donates a portion of its tasting room sales to local organizations. Head Brewer Nathan Kelischek, an App State alumnus, heads the program that offers current students internships and collaborations that help develop budding careers in fermentation sciences. Appalachian Mountain Brewery has made a name for itself not only through their beer, but its stances on community and local philanthropy.

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Olivia Bowyer

Courtesy of Pedlin’ Pig

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Jesse Barber

BEST SANDWICH OUR DAILY BREAD Marlen Cardenas // Reporter

With almost 20 specialty sandwiches, eight vegetarian and vegan specialty sandwiches, and various salads and desserts, Our Daily Bread has something for everyone. Located on King Street, Our Daily Bread was founded in 1984, and the building was originally an A&P Grocery with a doctor’s office upstairs. Some of its menu items include the Grilled Pesto Tempeh; which has grilled tempeh with homemade pesto, roasted red peppers, red onion, and organic spring greens on grilled sourdough bread; and the Roast Beef and Chimmi; which comes with thin-sliced roast beef with house-made chimichurri sauce, melted goat cheese, spring mix, tomatoes, roasted red peppers and chipotle aioli on a pressed brioche roll. None of the menu items are priced over $10, so its food is affordable for college students. According to Our Daily Bread’s website, its goal has always been to have the “best comfort food along King Street,” with its affordable ingredient-focused sandwiches, as well as wine and beer, all in a warm and casual environment.

BEST BBQ PEDALIN’ PIG Rachel Greenland // Reporter

BBQ is a staple to a southern kitchen, and Boone voted Pedalin’ Pig the Best BBQ in town. With its first location opening in Banner Elk in 2014 and second just below University Highlands Student Apartments, Pedalin’ Pig is a local delicacy. Pedalin’ Pig uses homemade sauces and rubs on its many meat dishes, ranging from baby back ribs to brisket. The restaurant sources food and western North Carolina microbrews and regional wines and even uses them to create unique sauces like blackberry bourbon glaze or honey chipotle rub. All of Pedalin’ Pig’s dishes can be paired with a long list of classic southern sides, like fried okra, cornbread salad and coleslaw.

BEST PIZZA LOST PROVINCE Christina Beals // Reporter

Located on Depot Street, Lost Province offers 15 different types of pizza on its menu, including a build-your-own option. This microbrewery made a local name for its pizza through its weekly Margherita Monday and Thirsty Thursday specials, or “pizza and pint night,” which offers pizza and a pint of beer for $10. Pizzas feature a wide range of non-traditional ingredients, such as the “Sweet Beet” made with beets and sweet potatoes, and the “Tacos al Pastor” with radish and cotija cheese. The “Lost Province” pizza even strays from how one typically defines a “normal pizza,” made with apple slices and melted goat cheese. For those looking to pick up a slice, Lost Province serves from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. weekly.

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Halle Keighton

BEST SWEETS BLUE DEER COOKIES Elaina Woodlief // Reporter

Blue Deer Cookies is a favorite in the Boone and Blowing Rock area because of its homemade sweets and the unique experience. The restored vintage camper sits on the side of Highway 321, surrounded by string lights and picnic tables. The menu includes homemade cookies, baked daily in the camper, and Homeland Creamery ice cream from Julian. Customers can customize their own cookie ice cream sandwich or enjoy a scoop of ice cream or cookie separately. Blue Deer Cookies offers a unique experience to gather outdoors and enjoy the surrounding mountain view. A permanent location on King Street is under construction, which started in early 2020, and will be open late spring.

The camper at the original location is now open from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m.

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BEST VEGETARIAN AND VEGAN OPTIONS

COYOTE KITCHEN Elaina Woodlief // Reporter

Living up to its slogan, “whatever you want, we got it,” Coyote Kitchen’s atmosphere is all gold, red, blue and green. Featuring Southwestern Caribbean soul food, the food is filled with colorful vegetables and explosive combinations. One of its best attributes, though, is modifying any meal to fit a vegetarian or vegan diet. Mainly serving tacos, burgers and burritos, Coyote Kitchen acknowledges all specialty diets and “really knows what is in our food and do everything we can to meet your needs,” according to its website. For every item on the menu, Coyote Kitchen can change any unwanted ingredient and replace it with something that fits the vegetarian or vegan diet. Most often, replacements consist of veggies or beans. The restaurant also offers choices that don’t need replacements, like the “Gabriella burrito, Sedona bowl, and nachos deluxe with blackened tempeh (no cheese, maybe add mushrooms or pineapple instead), and of course the vegan triple chocolate cake,” according to its website.

Jesse Barber

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Sydney Spann

BEST GROCERY STORE PUBLIX Zack Antrum // Senior Reporter

Publix is popular for its weekly deals, friendly employees and custom deli items. Publix attempts to go above and beyond the usual expectations of supermarkets and hopes to create a unique shopping experience for everyone that visits. It’s deli contains many tasty subs and other favorites such as fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, potato salad, and more. Publix employees are often seen taking the extra mile by helping customers find items, helping carry items to customers’ cars, or even just stopping and chatting with people visiting the store.

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BEST BREAKFAST MELANIE’S FOOD FANTASY Ansley Puckett // A&C Editor

Nestled in the middle of King Street, Melanie’s is a fan favorite for its locally-grown breakfast and lunch. Known for its creative plate names, like Potato Madness, and inviting atmosphere, you’ll feel right at home in its cozy inside seating or outside patio where you can enjoy their breakfast with a great view of King Street. Melanie’s offers a wide variety of choices, including its farm-fresh eggs, sourced locally from Aunt Bessie’s Farm in Deep Gap, or its pancakes and omelet offerings. Melanie’s also offers made-from-scratch Stick Boy Bread & Co. biscuits and bread that can be paired with grape jelly or apple butter. As a side, customers have their choice of bacon, soysage, stewed apples, home fries, grits and many other options. Diners can pair these plates with organic drinks, which include Hatchet coffee, orange juice, hot tea, apple juice, herbal and sweet tea. Try Melanie’s and see why it calls itself a “Food Fantasy.”

Halle Keighton

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May 16, 2020

The Appalachian

Jesse Barber