The Appalachian
TheAppalachianOnline.com
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Vol. 86 No. 46
Community responds to Amendment One Ball pulls resolution from Town Council docket by ANNE BUIE Senior News Reporter
The Boone Town Council almost took a stance on Amendment One at Tuesday’s meeting, with to a resolution Councilman Andy Ball drafted in January. However, Ball decided to pull the resolution from the agenda.
Originally, you had stated you were going to announce a resolution at Tuesday’s Town Council Meeting. Why did you decide against it? Ball: The more I thought about this, the more I thought this is a referendum vote for the voters. No government should be deciding how the voters should vote. I was offended by the ideas that any group would pass a resolution trying to suggest how to vote. This kind of resolution has ill effects.
Communities of faith create ‘Vote Against Because’ ad campaign by ANNE BUIE Senior News Reporter
M
embers of two local congregations have united to campaign against Amendment One through a local advertising campaign. High Country United Church of Christ and Boone Unitarian Universalist Fellowship oppose the amendment, which would make marriage between one man and one woman the only legal domestic union in North Carolina. Same-sex marriage is already illegal in the state, but the amendment would add that provision to the state
constitution. The two churches designed ads that listed individualized reasons for people to vote against the amendment. Some ads focus on matters of faith, while others focus on what members of both congregations perceive as the amendment’s unconstitutionality, United Church of Christ member Catherine Hopkins said. “The primary, unifying characteristic of these ads is the emphasis on equality, compassion and treating others as we want to be treated,” said Hopkins, who shot and edited photos for each ad. A total of 22 ads were placed in the Watauga Democrat and The Mountain
Times. A few ads were also published in The Ashe Mountain Times and Blowing Rocket. The ads have been running since March 4 and will continue to run weekly until May 6. Hopkins’s decision to be actively involved in the campaign is based on her faith – but that’s not her sole reason for contributing. Hopkins, who is gay, said she understands the implications of discrimination firsthand. “When I was in college, my girlfriend committed suicide,” she said. “I was very lucky because my family and church was accepting, but her famsee Vote Against Because, page 2
Two area churches, High Country United Church of Christ and Boone Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, came together to run these ads, which opposed Amendment One and ran in several High Country papers.
What are your personal views on Amendment One?
Ball: I think it’s discriminatory and it denies the rights of committed partners, in both heterosexual and homosexual relationships. I think it could harm women and children by denying basic health rights in some situations. We don’t know the full implications of what it could deny because private entities will decide what to limit. There’s already a law in North Carolina about gay marriage. What role do you believe the local government has, specifically when it comes to state conflicts such as Amendment One? Ball: The government has zero say, especially when it comes to referendums on ballots for voters to decide.”
Student, professor and community members oppose County Commissioners’ resolution Tuesday by REBECCA GITLEN News Reporter
Seven people, including an Appalachian State University professor and a student, spoke against the Watauga County Commissioners’ resolution to endorse Amendment One during the public comment section of the Commissioners’ Tuesday meeting. All but one speaker - Paula Fink, 82, who wanted to know more about the amendment before voting - opposed what they called the “discriminatory nature” of the legislation.
Kenley Katz, a sophomore art major, didn’t think the amendment should be up for a vote at all. “One thing we should have learned by now – the Greeks even knew it – we can’t have pure democracy because then you can vote away minorities’ rights,” Katz said. Other speakers thought the board’s expression on the issue overstepped its boundaries. Beth Jacquot told the board it was unethical for them to support an “erroneous message that the people are for [Amendment One].” She added that she believes it’s not a local political body’s job to influence vot-
June court date set for alleged perpetrator of Cookout assault
by REBECCA GITLEN
News Reporter
The 19-year-old man charged with assaulting Sarabeth Nordstrom and junior exercise science major Erin Johnston in February has had his court date set for June 5. Ketoine Jamahl Mitchell appeared in court Tuesday and was granted a courtappointed attorney. Mitchell is charged with
two counts of assault on a female, one count of assault inflicting serious injury and one count of assault with a deadly weapon. Mitchell said he turned himself in when he saw reports of the assault on the news. He gave his statement to police, spent one day in jail and posted bail. Mitchell admits to assaulting Johnston and Nordstrom, but said the assault had nothing to do with
Senior News Reporter
For the fifth year in a row, Appalachian State University’s Department of Computer Science has seen an increase in enrollment for entry-level courses. The growth has been a steady rebound for the department - its enrollment “bottomed out” in 2006, said James Wilkes, chairman of the department. “Since that time, they’ve been inching back up,” Wilkes said. “Our levels now are back to what they were around 2001,2002.” Class sizes have increased and sections in lower-level courses have been added, particularly in the fall, Wilkes said. “We’ve been able to absorb the influx fairly well,” Wilkes said. The department is currently hiring new faculty, which will help it accommodate for growth, he said. Additionally, Wilkes is in the process of launching a visual marketing campaign to attract potential students. The increasing number of students has meant more discussion and a more dynamic learning environment, said Jay
entity to decide how people live or love.” Commissioner Vince Gable brought the motion before the board. “I believe in the amendment,” Gable said. “It’s how I personally feel.” Gable said he was fortified in his decision to bring the motion before the board by an April 10 Vote For Marriage rally organized at Watauga High School. “I saw a lot more support there than I saw in opposition tonight,” he said. Each speaker was allowed two minutes, the minimum amount of time the board grants each speaker during public comment, to address the board.
Relay for Life 2012
perceived sexual orientation. “It had nothing to do with her being gay – my sister’s gay,” Mitchell said. “ It was because she hit me first.” He added that he has a problem with the assault on a female charge. “They should give up assault on a female if they’re going to act like men,” Mitchell said. “She’s bigger than me.”
Enrollment continues to rebound for Department of Computer Science
by KELLI STRAKA
ers. Craig Fischer, an associate professor of English at Appalachian, said he was disappointed that there was no opportunity for public input before the resolution. The motion to endorse the amendment was not on the board’s agenda and there was no written document produced before the vote, Commissioner Tim Futrelle said. Futrelle was absent from the April 3 meeting when the resolution was approved and does not support it. “We shouldn’t have this personal agenda in the public sphere,” Futrelle said. “I don’t believe it’s the prerogative of a government
Fenwick, program director for the department. “In some sense, we’re just getting back to where we’re filled up as opposed to being low,” he said. During the decline in 2006, the department tried to address declining enrollment with self-promotion. In 2008, the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Talent Expansion (STEP) Program was created to help maintain retention rates, said Rahman Tashakkori, the director of STEP and a professor in the department. Fewer students are inclined to apply to Appalachian’s graduate program for computer science because they are able to get jobs after graduation, Fenwick said. Furthermore, in the past three to four years, students who have applied to the computer science graduate school did not major in computer science as undergraduates. Because of this trend, there has been discussion of creating a remedial summer program that will require incoming graduate students to take entry-level courses in computer science.
Maggie Cozens | The Appalachian
Senior communication disorders major and Relay for Life committee member Anna Wells paints the tunnel in preparation for the Relay for Life. The event will be held place Friday at Duck Pond starting at 6 p.m.
Colleges Against Cancer hosts annual event by KEVIN ATKINSON Intern News Reporter
Appalachian State University’s chapter of Colleges Against Cancer will host Relay for Life, a walkathon to raise money for the American Cancer Society, Friday at 6 p.m. on Duck Pond Field. The field will be made into a track lined with luminaries where teams of participants will take turns walking for a 12-hour period. Teams will camp out in tents around the field, and food and activities will be provided for entertainment and further fundraising. The event will last from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. Colleges Against Can-
cer President Angie Trickel has been deeply involved in fundraising and planning for the event, and has raised $1,875 - the most money out of all 974 individual participants. “The money we raise really is a big deal,” Trickel said. “In just the past 20 years, the American Cancer Society has made such insane, significant growth in the amount of lives that are saved. It shows that what we are doing makes a big difference.” Allison Shaw, a senior theatre education major, has been participating in Relay for Life since she was 6. She captains Alpha Omicron Pi’s team, which has raised
$3,380 - the most of all 76 teams participating. “The majority of us have been affected by cancer,” Shaw said. “We want to do everything we can to contribute to research and finding a cure.” Trickel said the event is meant to reflect the nature of the problem. “Cancer doesn’t sleep, so neither do we,” she said. “That’s the idea behind it.” As of press time, the event had raised over $38,000 well on the way to its goal of $50,000. Participation for 2012 is up by at least 400 participants. For more information on the event or to sign up, visit relayforlife.org/asu.
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News
• April 19, 2012
| TheAppalachianOnline.com
Ivory Tower seeks production license
Vote Against Because Continued from page 1
ily and church were not accepting. She felt like the answer was suicide. Unfortunately, that’s not uncommon enough. For churches to advance an agenda to dehumanize part of the population because of their sexual orientation is very damaging and can be deadly.” Unitarian Universalist Fellowship President Glenda Hubbard, who is also involved with the campaign, worked in the counseling center at Appalachian State University for 18 years. “Over the years, I’ve had literally dozens, or maybe even hundreds of gay and lesbian clients,” Hubbard said. “Never once did any
The Appalachian
of them say ‘I was recruited,’ never once did any of them say ‘I chose to be this way.’” Hubbard said Unitarian Universalist Fellowship differs from High Country United Church of Christ regarding theology, but the churches share a common goal. “Our congregations and clergy have long recognized and celebrated same-sex marriages within our faith tradition,” Hubbard said. “In 1974, we made an institutional commitment to full equality for bisexual, gay, lesbian and transgender people. We recognize that full equality can only be achieved when it is recognized legally in society.”
PERSON ON THE STREET
What are your thoughts on the new Starbucks opening inside Harris Teeter? “I think the Starbucks will attract mostly tourists, not locals from the area. I don’t think it will affect our business that much.”
Mac Taylor, sophomore furniture design major and Wired Scholar employee
Fermentation Science Program could sell beer
by MARK KENNA Intern News Reporter
The Appalachian State University Fermentation Science program’s brewery could become the first state-licensed university brewery to operate since prohibition, brewery staff said. Ivory Tower Brewery, located in the Broyhill Events Center on Bodenheimer Drive, is currently seeking its malt beverage wholesaler permit, brewer Nathan Kelischek said. Though the space is used for Fermentation Science courses at Appalachian as a research and educational tool, with a state production license, the brewery could start selling its creations. “They have had the application for a couple of months now at least,” said
Brett Taubman, one of Ivory Tower’s directors and an associate professor in the department of chemistry. “It’s really just a matter of our side following through with them and trying to get it figured out.” If the brewery does get a license, those involved think it could be a successful business. “As a student, if there was a brewery on campus that was brewing beer, would you rather go buy beer at the grocery store or buy a beer at the brewery?” said Ivory Tower brewer Seth Hewitt. They also believe it could be a popular space for students. “Imagine this campus with a brewery where people who are 21 can gather and learn about the beers being made and share a pint,” Taubman said.
The brewery could also act as a beer education conduit to students who are not part of the Fermentation Science program, Taubman said. “Business students will be involved in the marketing and promotion of the beer, design students in designing labels and even the space up there, communication students also with promotional things,” he said. “There are just so many opportunities for so many different disciplines around this brewery and this business. The potential is virtually limitless.” Most of the money that supports Ivory Tower comes from the High Country Beer Festival, an annual educational beer tasting and festival the brewery holds, said Seth Cohen, director of the College of Arts and Sciences.
The Appalachian
“I think the Starbucks will knock local business a bit, but it could really go either way. I will probably stay local, but Starbucks might be more convenient.”
is now accepting applications for its 2012-13 Editorial Board positions.
Brian Morgan, freshman chemistry major “I am an avid coffee drinker. I miss the BeanStalk and am very excited about the new espresso bar. I love the atmosphere of smaller coffee shops over big ones.”
Positions available include:
Sarah Langston, sophomore nutrition major
News Editor Arts & Entertainment Editor Opinion Editor Sports Editor
“I really enjoy the atmosphere of a small coffee shop. Starbucks works better in bigger cities, but this is a small town and Starbucks coffee isn’t really that good. I think it’s pointless to open one up here.”
Graphics Editor Photo Editor Video Editor
If interested, stop by the Student Publications Suite in the Plemmons Student Union or email Hannah Pomphrey at pomphreyhm@appstate.edu.
Sarah Kasper, junior elementary education major Information compiled by Madison Fisler
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April 19, 2012 •
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Students eat for a change Review:
‘Picture Show’ a homerun for Neon Trees by HAYDEN KEZIAH
Intern Lifestyles Reporter
Editor’s Note: The following reflects the opinions of the author.
Amy Birner | The Appalachian
Junior history and secondary education major Andy Decker poses with some of the foods in the market that he endorses. Decker and other students are changing their diets to promote a social change in eating habits that will benefits local food suppliers.
Increasing sustainability concerns lead to unconventional choices
by LAURA GUIDRY
Intern Lifestyles Reporter
T
here is a change happening on the plates of Appalachian State University students. As awareness about the social and economic impact of the food industry spreads, some students are choosing to restrict their diets, localize their food sources and cut back on big-name products. “Most of my restrictions are based off what I purchase,” junior history secondary education major Andy Decker said. “It’s based off the whole idea that every penny spent is a vote toward the world I want to live in. For sure,
it’s a harder time. On campus it’s harder, but it can be done.” Ideas about sustainable food habits are often spread through class lectures and activities. Tracy Myhalyk, a professor in the Department of Biology, addresses the power of the neighborhood food economy in her lectures. “I think that a lot of people don’t know where their food comes from,” Myhalyk said. By incorporating the idea of caring for the earth and its inhabitants, Myhalyk said she hopes to spark the idea that close to home is the way to buy and eat. Decker picked up some new ideas in a history class, but his
peers also influenced his decision to eat sustainably. “What sparked it was my friends,” he said. “I have some friends who are vegetarians, some who are vegans, so that was the initial spark and then also research and documentaries. I’ve learned the slavery and oppression of people that produce certain products. I’m not going to buy Hershey’s.” Sophomore psychology major Jeff Verner takes it one step further - he works to limit his purchases by finding food in an unusual way. “I found out about the amount of food waste that Americans consume and how that sucks, so that started me getting food out
of dumpsters sometimes,” Verner said. “So instead of perpetuating it, I eat what would be wasted.” Another student, junior sustainable development major Jaimie McGirt, tries to restrict her diet to locally-grown foods and works to create relationships with local farmers. She’s been doing so since her freshman year, when an upperclassman friend brought her to the Farmer’s Market. “I guess it’s hard to say that I’m creating a change, because it still feels like only a drop in the bucket,” McGirt said. “But when I take somebody else and take them to the Farmer’s Market like the upperclassman did me, I am sharing what I know. And from that, these ideas will spread.”
‘Partner Abuse in LGBT Relationships’ draws crowd April Burgess-Johnson speaks about abusive relationships in the LGBT community Monday evening to a crowd of more than 60 in Belk Library and Information Commons.
Courtney Roskos |
by MEGAN WRAPPE Lifestyles Reporter
The LGBT Center hosted a lecture titled “Partner Abuse in LGBT Relationships” Monday in Belk Library & Information Commons. “Every year there has to be an event on campus about relationship violence and this year, it was given to the LGBT Center,” LGBT Center Volunteer Will Loizias said. “We each went out and did our own background research on violence in LGBT relationships and we were shocked at how prevalent it is, but also how silent it is.” April Burgess-Johnson, a coordinated community response specialist for the North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence, spoke at the event. “Sometimes we say, ‘I want to be supportive and I want The Appalachian to be helpful, but I don’t know
what to say,’” she said. “If you know someone who is in an abusive relationship and you tell them they need to get out, you may be putting them in danger. Violence escalates after a relationship ends, so you tell them, ‘You deserve better than this.’” Burgess-Johnson also touched on finding comfort with your sexual orientation in a society that is not always accepting. “Any oppression in our society is a tool that a batterer can put in their toolbox,” she said. “We live in a society that teaches us to already be ashamed of the people we are and when someone that we love hurts us, it affects us even more. There aren’t many of us in the LGBT community, so our friends become our support.” OASIS, a Boone nonprofit that provides crisis services to victims of violence and abuse, was also on hand. “Our clients are split, where half have lived in Boone all their lives and the other moved here with their partner - meaning they are twice as isolated,” OASIS Shelter Manager Karen Arthur said. The LGBT Center expected a low turnout for the event, but volunteers were surprised when more than 60 people attended. “We were expecting 20 or 30, maybe, but not this many,” Loizias said. “Since so many people came, I don’t see why we wouldn’t have another small event similar to this.”
Utah-based rock band Neon Trees released their new album “Picture Show” Tuesday. The album is the group’s sophomore showing, and they had a lot to live up to. Songs from the March 2010 album “Habits” became instant hits in the last few years. With tracks like “Animal” and “1983,” Neon Trees set the bar high. The band’s sound is comparable to that of established newage groups like Franz Ferdinand and Modest Mouse, and their new album helps cement them in that category. “Picture Show” features plenty of catchy songs, especially the upbeat tracks “Mad Love” and “Everybody Talks.” It also features 12 full-length songs, compared to the eight on “Habits.” Neon Trees moved in a more pop-centered direction with this album, with beachy, upbeat songs like “Everybody Talks.” The track has a contagious beat and simple, easily memorable lyrics. It’s the first single from the album - released back in December - and is a good representation of the work as a whole. In one verse, it plays on the casual nature of modern society, the way nothing is kept a secret: “Hey honey you could be my drug/ You could be my new prescription. Too much could be an overdose/ All this trash talk’s got me itchin.’” “Mad Love” is also memorable. Its subtle harmonies and bright guitar solos work together to create a lovely, addictive song that could easily find its way to summertime repeat-button status. Another track that stands out: “Tell Me You Love Me,” which takes on a slower pace and a slightly darker tone than the other two songs. The members of Neon Trees have kept up their game as major contenders in the new-age rock genre. This album actually has more potential for hit singles than “Habits” did two years ago. “Picture Show” has a cohesive feel and the band has finally refined its sound, which is pleasant and easy to enjoy. The only drawback is that some of the songs stretch for five to six minutes, which is pushing it for an album like this. Still, “Picture Show” is wellcrafted, clever and a surefire hit for 2012.
Rating:
3 out of 4 stars
Boone businesses celebrate fifth annual national Record Store Day
by WILL GREENE
Intern Lifestyles Reporter
Downtown Boone record stores 641 rpm and Fat Cats will both take part in National Record Store Day this Saturday. The fifth annual holiday is a celebration of vinyl music and names independent record stores across the country as participants. “Record Store Day is a day where independent record stores get exclusive vinyl pressings of new releases and remasters,” Fat Cats manager Michael Pierce said. Fat Cats’ special releases will feature vinyl exclusively, while 641 rpm will feature both vinyl and CDs. Bands will play all day in the plaza where Fat Cats is located and the entire inventory, with the exception of Record Store Day releases, will be 20 percent off. As the day approaches, though, members of the Appalachian State University community are split on the topic of vinyl. “I don’t understand the appeal of vinyl
records,” freshman journalism major Matt Hinson said. “It seems like too much of a hassle to sit down and listen to it. An iPod is a much easier means of listening to music.” Freshman undecided major Andrew Graves disagreed - he said the listening experience is more personal and enjoyable through the vinyl medium. “A vinyl record is something you can hold and feel,” Graves said. “It acquires smells and the Sarah Stidham | The Appalachian color ages over time and Freshman undecided major Andrew Graves discusses his love for vinyl records. Record Store Day, I don’t get the same feel- foudned in 2007, will take place on Saturday in order to celebrate the art of music. ing of connection from a digital successors. putting the records on the turntable and digital file.” “I enjoy the listening experience of vinyl reading the liner notes,” Page said. “I feel Hayes School of Music professor Andy Page said, for him, vinyl is preferable its much more, because of the tangible act of more connected to the music that way.”
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April 19, 2012 •
5
Review:
Greek Week features Lip Sync Competition
Belgian comic character brings nostalgia to the screen in ‘Tintin’ film by EMMALEE ZUPO
Senior Lifestyles Reporter
Editor’s Note: The following reflects the opinions of the author.
Courtney Roskos | The Appalachian
Alpha Omicron Pi sisters Elizabeth Walker, Morgan Thomasson, Anne Hammer and Ashley Felts perform Monday Evening in Farthing Auditorium. The sisters dressed up as Wizard of Oz characters as part of Greek Week’s Lip Sync competition. “Greek Week is so much fun and Lip Sync tonight is just another great way we celebrate all the good work we do throughout the year,” Panhellenic Association President and Alpha Omicron Pi sister Emily Oswalt said. “We were able to raise over $13,000 this week for four local non-profit organizations and we’re really happy that this money will go back into the community.” Lip Sync competition winners sorority Delta Zeta and fraternity Alpha Tau Omega were announced Wednesday night at the Greek Awards Banquet.
Senior directs Alpha Psi Omega’s ‘Odd Couple’ by WILL GREENE Intern Lifestyles Reporter
S
enior journalism major Ariel Nicastro will direct a three-day production of “The Odd Couple” in I.G. Greer Studio Theatre this weekend. Nicastro was chosen by her peers to head up the annual student-directed performance hosted by Appalachian State University’s chapter of Alpha Psi Omega, the National Theatre Honor Society. Performances will run Thursday through Saturday, each time at 7:30 p.m. “The opportunity to direct was amazing,” Nicastro said. “I have always acted in plays and have been in-
volved in about 10 productions here at Appalachian, but this is my first time directing.” Members of Alpha Psi Omega made the decision to perform “The Odd Couple” - the work of playwright Neil Simon - from a lottery of several plays. “I believe that this cast is ready to put on a great series of performances,” Nicastro said. “I have worked hard to put together the best performance I can and I don’t think the audience will be disappointed.” The play revolves around Oscar (senior theatre performance major Ryan Sheehe) and Felix (freshman undecided major Shane Jones). Oscar and Felix are both products of
divorce, and they move in with each other to help pay rent. Despite the challenge of developing a tight performance in a short time frame, the cast is feeling confident. “The cast has really developed a great chemistry in the past couple of weeks,” Sheehe said. Other cast members praised Nicastro’s brand-new directorial skills. “Ariel has really shown us a lot of support,” Jones said. “She’s tough but helpful at the same time. She’s really done a good job helping us bond and craft a very good play.” Tickets to “The Odd Couple” are $5. All proceeds benefit Alpha Psi Omega.
Although he’s been associated with action and sci-fi lately, Steven Spielberg has taken a different route with his latest film. His rendition of “The Adventures of Tintin” is a nostalgic call back to past efforts like “Indiana Jones.” Appalachian State University’s I.G. Greer Auditorium will screen the film, which also enlisted the talents of “Lord of the Rings” director Peter Jackson, Thursday through Saturday at 7 and 9:30 p.m. “Tintin” is the brainchild of 1920s Belgian artist Georges Remi - better known by his pseudonym, Hergè. The cinematic version focuses primarily on Hergè’s adventure-themed piece “The Secret of the Unicorn.” Many of Hergè’s comics could be considered political satire - not surprising, considering the time period in which he wrote. Perhaps that’s what drew Spielberg to the film. “Tintin” really is reminiscent of “Indiana Jones” in its composition. One scene after another presents an obstacle or a puzzle - it’s always a “how will they manage to escape” setup followed by some ingenious plan. For some, that’s a classic theme. For others, it might seem a bit tedious. Admittedly, the storyline
is a little anticlimactic. But that could also be attributed to the fact that the film was a culmination of several “Tintin” comics mashed into one motion picture, rather than just one. The movie has, overall, a jumbled and tackedtogether feel. And, though the comics themselves had some surprisingly mature themes, the movie doesn’t delve into them at all. A decision to explore some of Hergè’s more politically-inspired pieces might have widened the audience range for the film. But storyline aside, the movie is entertaining. Movie Tintin, much like his comic-book counterpart, is a clever and fullyrealized character, not a bumbling caricature. In fact, Tintin is kind of a bad ass. Visually speaking, the film is captivating. Some of the most striking segments are actually just transitions from one scene to the next - waves melting into sand dunes or a puddle that expands into an ocean. The characters, on the other hand, didn’t transition to the screen quite as smoothly. Caught between their two-dimensional origins and the ultra-realistic capabilities of computer animation, they have the bone structure of cartoons with incredibly detailed skin. “The Adventures of Tintin” is a good, oldfashioned, action-packed adventure movie. And it’s at least worth paying $1.
Rating: 2.5 out of 4 stars
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Send copy to David W. Freeman, Director of Student Publications, Center for Student Involvement and Leadership, second floor, Plemmons Student Union, or e-mail: freemandw@appstate.edu.
ASU Commencements May 11-13
May commencement ceremonies will be held May 11-13 at Appalachian State University. Individual ceremonies will be held for each of the university’s seven colleges and schools. Ceremonies for graduates of the Cratis D. Williams Graduate School will begin at 6 p.m. on Friday, May 11, in the Holmes Convocation Center. Graduates and their guests will view a video highlighting the research of four graduate students. Graduates of the College of Fine and Applied Arts will be honored Saturday, May 12, beginning at 9 a.m. at the Holmes Convocation Center. The guest speaker will be Ryan McGee, senior writer for ESPN the Magazine. McGee is a frequent contributor to ESPN.com, Insider, NASCAR Now, SportsCenter and ESPNU. He is also the author of “The Road To Omaha: Hits, Hopes and History at the College World Series” and “ESPN Ultimate NASCAR: 100 Defining Moments in Stock Car Racing History.” Commencement for Hayes School of Music graduates will begin at 1 p.m. in the Broyhill Music Center on Saturday, May 12. The guest speaker will be Dr. Concetta M. Tomaino, executive director and co-founder of the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function and senior vice president for music therapy with CenterLight Health System. Tomaino is internationally known for her research in the clinical applications of music and neurologic rehabilitation. Dr. Meg Lowman, director of the Nature Research Center at the N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh, will be the guest speaker for the College of Arts and Sciences and University College commencement. Lowman pioneered the science of tree canopy ecology. Ceremonies will begin at 4 p.m. May 12 in the Holmes Convocation Center. On Sunday, May 13, graduates of the College of Health Sciences will be honored beginning at 9 a.m. in the Holmes Convocation Center. The guest speaker will be Sallye A. Liner, executive vice president and chief clinical officer with Novant Health. Liner is accountable for the transformation of care for 13 acute care hospital facilities and for driving the development of programs and services that achieve Novant Health’s short and long-term strategic goals. Ceremonies for the Reich College of Education graduates will begin at 12:30 p.m., also in the Holmes Convocation Center. Graduates and their guests will view a video presentation about some of the college’s graduates. Alumnus Brad Sparks will address graduates of the Walker College of Business May 13 during activities that will begin at 4:30 p.m. in the Holmes Center. A 1997 graduate of the business college, Sparks is a director with KPMG International responsible for the accounting firm’s Global Green Initiative.
SDR helps you with involvement
Each student at Appalachian State University has an official co-curricular transcript. Involvement, leadership positions, on-campus employment, awards, leadership programs etc. can be listed on the transcript. Visit www.sdr.appstate.edu to see what your options are for involvement. Start building your experiences today.
Need help getting involved?
The Center for Student Involvement and Leadership is available for advising appointments. Schedule a time today to talk with a professional in the office to determine your best plan of action. Get out, meet people and make a difference. Call 262-6252, or visit the CSIL website at www.csil.appstate. edu, drop by Room #219 for more information.
Spring Counseling Center groups
Understanding Self and Others Group: Issues commonly addressed vary from depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, self-esteem, issues of family conflict or abuse, etc. Students who want to resolve specific concerns as well as those seeking personal growth are welcome. This can be a good time to get peers’ perspectives on various issues, and to recognize that you are not alone. Four groups are available: Mondays 1:30-3 and 3:30-5; Tuesdays 3-4:30; Wednesday 3-4:30; Thursdays (with dog) 3-4:30; Fridays 10-11:30.
Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual Therapy Group: This group will present an opportunity for gay, lesbian, and bisexual individuals to explore life challenges. It will provide a safe environment in which to address a variety of issues (e.g., coming out, spirituality, family relationships, depression, selfesteem, abuse, etc.). Goals of the group include: reducing isolation, finding support and making changes. Tuesdays 5-6:30 and Fridays 1-2:30.
Painful Pasts, Promising Futures Group: This group is designed for those who have experienced traumatic events in their lives or who come from backgrounds in which they did not feel safe. Members will learn how their past experiences and their biology are affecting their lives now. More importantly, they will learn what to do about it! Members will learn important insights about their patterns in relationships and skills to better manage their emotions and relationships. Thursdays 3:30-5 and Fridays 3-4:30. (For information contact Amber Lyda: 262-3180 or lydaam@appstate.edu). Transgender Therapy Group: This group is similar to the “Understanding Self and Others” group in that a variety of issues will be explored in a safe and supportive environment. Some of the issues will be unique to gender-variant students. Goals of the group include: reducing isolation, finding support and making changes. Wednesdays 4:30-6. (For information contact Sheri Clark: 262-3180 clarksl@ appstate.edu).
WISE Women, Image, & Self Esteem: This group is designed for any woman interested in changing how she values herself. If you’d like to feel better about yourself and less controlled by appearance, food and what others think, this group may be for you. Thursdays 2-3:30 p.m. (For information contact Denise Lovin: 262-3180 or lovindm@ appstate.edu).
An Introduction to Mindfulness Group: Mindfulness involves stepping out of “auto-pilot” reactions and learning to pay more attention to our present experiences. Activities in this group will help participants cultivate a mindful approach to their lives, which can decrease stress, create emotional balance, and allow a person to take actions more in line with their values. Thursdays 2-3:30 (For information contact Chris Hogan: 262-3180 or hogancj@appstate.edu). To get started with a Counseling Center group, come to the Counseling Center during Walk-In Clinic, call 262-3180 or visit the website for more information at www.counseling. appstate.edu. If you are interested in group but these times
The Appalachian
ews
A Service of the Division of Student Development
do not work for you, please get in touch with Chris Carden at 262-3180 or cardendc@appstate.edu.
Career resources available at ASU
Come explore the resources on campus here to assist you with your career planning and job searching needs. Is choosing a major causing you stress? The Peer Career Center can help! Choosing a major is one of the many decisions you will have to make during your college career. Do not take it lightly. The average person spends 86,000 hours working in his/her lifetime. How many hours are you going to spend choosing your career? We offer assistance in finding a major and career that matches your interests, abilities, values and experiences. Call 262-2029 to schedule an appointment or drop by our office located on the 2nd floor of the Student Union, beside McAllister’s Deli. Visit us at www.peercareer. appstate.edu. The Career Development Center offers many resources to assist you in your job and internship search skills. Career Counselors will help you build a professional resume, cover letter, and help develop your interviewing skills. Students can utilize Career Gear, (careergear.appstate.edu), our new and improved career management system, to schedule career counseling appointments, post resumes, search for jobs and internships, sign up for on campus interviews, research employers, identify employer mentors and stay up to date with career center events and fairs. Learn about all of the great resources in the CDC at careers.appstate.edu.
Free, confidential legal advice
A licensed attorney is available to answer your questions, provide advice, and make referrals. This service is offered free of charge to any Appalachian State University student. Contact the Student Legal Clinic if you have a traffic ticket, a minor criminal charge, a question about your lease or the conditions in your off-campus apartment -- or any other issue or problem that you need legal help with. The Student Legal Clinis is located in Room 221of the Plemmons Student Union. Call (828) 262-2704 for an appointment. It’s fast and easy! Appointments can usually be scheduled within a few days.
Financial Aid questions?
Parents and students with financial aid questions are encouraged to visit our website at financialaid.appstate.edu and their AppalNet account. The Office of Student Financial Aid is open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., except for University observed holidays.
Spring Diversity Speakers Series
The Office of Multicultural Student Development has announced the Spring schedule for the 2011-2012 Diversity Speaker Series. We hope that you will take advantage of these unique opportunities to see, hear and learn from some of the leading experts on diversity and social justice. All Diversity Speaker Series events are free and open to the public. The series includes: Hands on the Freedom Plow: Personal Accounts by Women in the SNCC, Tuesday, April 24, Blue Ridge Ballroom, Plemmons Student Union, 7 p.m., editors Faith Holsaert and Marsha Noonan.
Spring Visiting Writers to start
The Spring 2012 Visiting Writers Series is supported by the Appalachian State University Foundation; Appalachian’s Offices of Academic Affairs, Multicultural Student Development, and Cultural Affairs; the College of Arts and Sciences, the Department of English, the Summer Reading Program, the University Bookstore, Belk Library, and The Appalachian Journal. Business sponsors are The Gideon Ridge Inn and The Red Onion Restaurant. Community sponsors include John and Marjorie Idol, Paul and Judy Tobin, Alice Naylor, Thomas McLaughlin and The High Country Writers. The Visiting Writers Series is named in honor of Hughlene Bostian Frank, class of 1968, former trustee and generous supporter of Appalachian State University. For further information on Visiting Writers Series, call 828262-2337 or see www.visitingwriters.appstate.edu. Poets Rod Smith and Sarah Kennedy will close out the series today. Smith will discuss his works “Outlaw Style,” “Ensemble” and “Trespasser.” Kennedy will discuss her works “Home Remedies,” “A Witch’s Dictionary” and “Consider the Lilies.” A craft talk, “Historical Narrative Poems: Where Is This Voice Coming From,” will be presented at 3:30-4:45 p.m. at Table Rock Room in the Student Union.
ASU to honor 40 Who’s Who
| TheAppalachianOnline.com
The 2012 edition of Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges will include the names of 40 students from Appalachian State University who have been selected as national outstanding campus leaders. Campus nominating committees have included the names of these students based on their academic achievement, service of community, leadership in extracurricular activities, and potential for continued success. They join an elite group of students from more than 2,842 institutions of higher learning in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and several foreign nations. Outstanding students have been honored in the annual directory since it was first published in 1934. Each recipient is invited to be honored at the Recognition of Student Leaders Program on April 27. Who’s Who Recipients for 2011‐2012 are: Meredith Katheryn Anderson of Apex; Samantha Louise Bonham of Greensboro; Mark Thomas Bridges of Morganton; Derek Daniel Brown of Siler City; Emily Irene Brown of Durham; Stephanie Rose Childress of Warrenton, Va.; Rebecca Hye Cho of Raleigh; Samantha Lee Dawn Craig of Lincolnton; Jordan Elizabeth Davis of Albemarle; Kelsey Moss Dorset of Gaithersburg, Md.; Hannah Leigh Dow of Mattoon, Ill.; Ryan Alexander Duffy of Apex; Courtney Brion Freeman of Carlton, Ga.; Abigail Anne Gac of Weddington; Ashley Clara Griffin of Hendersonville; Weston Tucker Haney of Robbinsville; Kelsey Geneva Hanger of Asheville; Mattie Lee Hardin of Lakeland, Fla.; Jon Brian Hartley of Lenoir; Nathan Joseph Healy of New Bern; Alain P. Humblet of Brossard, Quebec, Canada; Paula Elizabeth Hunter of Great Falls, Va.; Lauren Samantha Kanapaux of Holly Springs; Devin Austin Lattin of Asheville; Jaimie Elizabeth McGirt of Wilmington; Davonte Lamar McKenith of Mint Hill; Javier Alejandro Medrano of Forest City; Kristen Marie Pate of Clinton; Samantha Pearl Patton of Morganton; McKenzie Rae Phillips of Newton, Ill.; Corianne Denise Rogers of Raleigh; Brianna Colleen Ruggles of Huntersville; Kimberly Ann Seufer of Greensboro; Laura Jean Sylvester of Raleigh; Alexander James Thomas of Durham; Caitlin Elizabeth Wainright of Winterville; Megan Janell Williams of High Point; Amber Marie Wilson of Denver; Jill Johanna Yerden of Cary; Sarah Eliza-
beth Young of Charlotte.
Nominate your favorite course
The John W. Pope Center for Higher Education Policy is accepting nominations for its annual Spirit of Inquiry award. The award recognizes courses taught at North Carolina colleges, universities and community colleges that reflect the true spirit of open-mindedness within an academic discipline. Nominated courses also should be interesting, rigorous, and unbiased. Students who have taken the course provide the nominations. Winning faculty members receive as much as $1,000. Students who nominate a winning course receive a $250 gift card to their school’s bookstore. If they graduate before the winners are selected, they receive a check instead. To nominate a professor, students should note these requirements: The instructor’s presentation of social and political issues is balanced and fair; The classroom environment allows students to express ideas and encourages open investigation and inquiry; Course material is interesting and rigorous; and, The professor/instructor is responsive to students needs. Other contest rules include: The course must be taken no earlier than Fall 2007 and no later than Spring 2012; Nominations are accepted from undergrads and graduate students; and, Courses taught in all North Carolina public and private colleges (including community colleges) are eligible. Students who wish to nominate a course should go to www. popecenter.org/contest. Nominations will be accepted until May 15 and can be entered at www.popecenter.org/contest The Spirit of Inquiry award program is funded by a grant from the Broyhill Family Foundation of Lenoir. The John W. Pope Center for Higher Education Policy is a nonprofit institute dedicated to improving higher education in North Carolina and the nation. It is located in Raleigh. For more information on the Center, visit www.popecenter.org.
Plemmons Medallion winners named
The W.H. Plemmons Medallion is an award created to “recognize the time, energy, skills, and commitment of students, faculty, student development educators and staff who exceed their peers in providing leadership that enriches the quality of student life and advances the education of students.” Each year nominations are sought from Appalachian community members. These nominations are reviewed and a recommendation is made to the Board of Trustees for recipients of this award. On March 23rd, the Board of Trustees awarded the W.H. Plemmons Medallion to Mr. Giovanni Modica a W. H. Plemmons Fellow, Mr. Sam Williams, Student Leader, Mr. David M. Lee, Student Leader, Ms. Martha Wilson, Senior Associate Registrar, Dr. Pat Geiger of Student Health Services, Dr. Scott Hunsinger, Associate Professor of Computer Information Systems, have been named recipients of the W. H. Plemmons Leadership Medallion. These outstanding recipients will be recognized and honored as part of Fall Convocation in September.
ASU honors student research
The Office of Student Research invites the campus community to its 15th Annual Celebration of Student Research and Creative Endeavors today until 5 p.m. in the Plemmons Student Union. ASU students will present their research throughout the day in poster sessions, oral talks and creative performances. This is your opportunity to celebrate student research at Appalachian State University.
Reel Paddling Film Fest at ASU
Rapid Media’s 6th annual Reel Paddling Film Festival showcases the world’s best paddling films to audiences in Canada, United States and around the world. The festival inspires more people to explore rivers, lakes and oceans, push physical and emotional extremes, embrace the lifestyle and appreciate the heritage of the wild places people paddle.The Reel Paddling Film Festival is a film contest awarding winning films in 10 categories. The winners and other shortlisted films are then toured to more than 100 cities around the world, screening for an audience of more than 30,000 outdoor adventure enthusaists and their friends and families. The festival will be held today, 7-10 p.m. in the I.G. Greer Theatre, sponsored by ASU’s Outdoor Programs. Admission is $5.
Pair honored for French education
Dr. Michael Lane and Roanoke Rapid’s Jeff Pageau were honored for their contributions to French language education at the statewide meeting of the American Association of Teachers of French (AATF) held March 31 in Concord. Lane is an associate professor of Francophone studies in Appalachian State University’s Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures. He received the N.C. AATF chapter’s French Teacher of the Year award for his work with students at all levels, including students studying French in classes linked to general education, advanced-level French honors students, and for his teaching in Francophone language and cultural studies at the master’s level. Pageau, who completed his Master of Arts in Romance Languages at Appalachian in December 2011, won the Concours Pédagogique for his contribution of the best French lesson plan statewide. The lesson plan focused on “Je suis cadien,” a poem by Cajun folklorist Jean Arceneaux that examines issues of language and identity in a Frenchspeaking area of Louisiana, a topic of relevance to the many other language minorities present in America today. Pageau received a certificate and cash award. He was invited to present his work at a statewide meeting of foreign language teachers in 2012-13. His contribution will also appear in the organization’s next publication. Pageau is a teacher of French in Roanoke Rapids. He also instructs French online for the N.C. Virtual Public School.
5K to benefit Huntington’s Society
Students from Appalachian State University are organizing the 7th Annual Tom Moore 5K run/walk to benefit the Huntington’s Disease Society of America. The event will take place Saturday, April 21, at the Greenway Trail starting at 9 a.m. Registration runs from 8-8:45 a.m. Pre-registration is $15 if received before April 18. Registration forms and other information is available at http://healthpromotion.appstate.edu and click on “7th Annual Tom Moore 5K Run/ Walk.” Registration the day of the race is $20. Long sleeve T-Shirts will be available on first come, first served basis. All proceeds will benefit the Huntington’s Disease Society of America. For additional information, contact Sherri Wilson at WilsonSL@appstatestate.edu or 828-262- 4748.
Opinion
Campus Chronicles:
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The Appalachian | TheAppalachianOnline.com
The Appalachian your student
newspaper since 1934
JUSTIN HERBERGER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
HANNAH POMPHREY
MEGHAN FRICK
ASSOCIATE EDITOR, ONLINE OPERATIONS
ASSOCIATE EDITOR, EDITORIAL CONTENT
JASON SHARPE
HANK SHELL
ASSOCIATE EDITOR, PRODUCTION OPERATIONS
OLIVIA WILKES
University conduct boards should not be responsible for any sexual misconduct cases
MICHAEL BRAGG
LIFESTYLES EDITOR
ZACH DRECHSLER
JAKE AMBERG SPORTS EDITOR
Contact EDITOR-IN-CHIEF (828) 262-6149 BUSINESS OFFICE (828) 262-2157 FAX LINE (828) 262-6256 Associated Collegiate Press
Our Mission The Appalachian, a student-run publication at Appalachian State University, strives to provide fair and accurate news for the campus community; to inform, entertain and create a forum for ideas; to provide an outlet for reader's opinions; to be a champion for student, faculty, staff, and community interests; and to remain independent, exercise and insure its First Amendment rights.
Letters to the Editor The Appalachian welcomes Letters to the Editor. Letters should be 250 words or less and include the author’s name, ASU Box, phone number, classification and campus affiliation, if any. The Appalachian reserves the right to decline publication of any letter and to edit letters for the purpose of clarity and space. Although we are unable to acknowledge those letters we cannot publish, we appreciate the interest and value the views of those who take the time to send us their comments. Letters should be submitted electronically via our Web site or e-mail. Letters may also be mailed to “Letter to the Editor,” The Appalachian, ASU Box 9025, Boone, N.C. 28608. Letters may also be brought to the newsroom, located on the second floor of Plemmons Student Union.
7
Staff Opinion
NEWS EDITOR
PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
April 19, 2012 •
Anne Buie Imagine falling asleep next to someone you trust, only to be woken up hours later to find that someone you thought was your friend was raping you. That’s what happened to Sabrina Negron, a UNCChapel Hill student, who recently told her story to UNC’s Daily Tar Heel. Throughout the comments section on the article, a few people blamed Negron for the rape incident – they assumed she could have done more to prevent the rape. This stereotypical “blame the victim” mindset is the reason I’m opposed to student conduct boards reviewing sexual misconduct cases.
These cases need to be handled with the utmost care and respect – not by college students who haven’t received the proper training. Morgan Abbott, the vice chairwoman of UNCChapel Hill’s Honor Court, said the students involved with hearing sexual misconduct cases were “often inadequately trained and inherently biased.” The inadequate training is the reason UNC-Chapel Hill made the decision to “remove cases of sexual misconduct from the jurisdiction of the studentrun honor system, effective Aug. 1,” according to The Daily Tar Heel. If the UNC-system’s flagship institution has made the choice to remove sexual misconduct cases from the campus honor system, maybe it’s time Appalachian State University considers following suit. In the Nov. 30 issue of The Appalachian, an article was published questioning why Appalachian’s police
had waited five days to send ting the student conduct out a crime alert about an board handle minor cases alleged sexual assault that that range from breaking had octhe Apcurred on palachian’s campus. ac ademic “APPALACHIAN And in policy to SHOULD CONSIDER the April a minor LEAVING FELONIES 11 issue, possessing Meagan alcohol. FOR THE STATE TO C r e e d The botHANDLE, AND LETmade an tom line is TING THE STUDENT this: being assertion that the sexually CONDUCT BOARD student assaulted, HANDLE MINOR conduct to any exCASES.” board isn’t tent, is an trained incredibly properly to traumatic handle sexual assault and experience that people can’t rape cases. understand unless they’ve Both of these incidents personally been assaulted. just enhance my point The sexual misconAppalachian isn’t prepared duct incident was horrible to handle these cases. enough for the victim – I It’s not just us – person- hope Appalachian will conally, I don’t think anyone sider making the trials less is prepared to deal with traumatic by letting trained the emotional trauma that professionals handle these comes with sexual miscon- crimes. duct incidents. But I definitely think ApBuie, a freshman middle palachian should consider grades education major from leaving alleged felonies for Charlotte, is a senior news the state to handle, and let- reporter.
Editorial Cartoon
Quote Of the Day
“They should give up assault on a female if they’re going to act like men. She’s bigger than me.”
Ketoine Jamahl Mitchell,
who allegedly assaulted Erin Johnston and Sarabeth Nordstrom
Column: Breaking Into Boone
Take advantage of Boone’s brief spring
With three weeks left in the semester, now is the time to get into those recently opened attractions around Boone. Once fall starts, there is no guarantee for good weather, so take advantage of the spring. Several recent and upcoming openings include Screaming Ziplines (open since March 15), Tweetsie Railroad (open since April 13) and Howard’s Knob (opening May 1). You might also want to save trips to Compression and Trash Can Falls for the upcoming weeks. I was one of those lucky kids who lived close enough for frequent trips to the mountains. My first memories of Boone and Blowing Rock always involved Tweetsie Railroad. Though it may be targeted toward children, Tweetsie really is fun no matter what age you are. The train ride is classic, but the park is full of more traditional carnival rides. You can even grab some delicious North Carolina barbecue and watch some live entertainment. Howard’s Knob is one of the first places I take visitors to Boone. The view of Appalachian is almost iconic to the area now. The outlook also has picnic benches, which makes it a peaceful area to do homework. However, be mindful of the opening and closing dates. I tried to take a friend from Asheville there last weekend, but it doesn’t open until May. Screaming Ziplines has been open for a month now and I highly recommend a visit. It contains six different lines, and more information can be accessed at screamingziplines.com. Compression Falls and Trash Can Falls are also easily accessible for a springtime get away. Compression Falls, a huge waterfall with a serious jump, provides an incredible adrenaline rush in a picturesque area. Trash Can Falls can serve as a closer, shorter visit. Besides, hiking is a great way to blow off steam from a quickly approaching exam week. Before summer vacation, take advantage of some of the warmer activities near Boone. There’s no reason to let exams ruin the rest of the semester. Brianna Linden, a sophomore public relations major from Hickory, writes about breaking out of her first-semester rut and learning to explore.
Got an opinion? Write a letter to the editor
Send letters to:
letters@theappalachianonline.com
LOOK! It’s a bird.. it’s a plane..
I’m pretty sure that’s just a helicopter, bro..
Aaron Fairbanks | Editorial Cartoonist
Letter
Misconceptions abound on Amendment One As an Appalachian State how it singles out Chris- ready on the books. Backers University student who tianity. What about other of the amendment point respects everyone’s view- religions such as Mormon- out that this is an important points, I am disappointed ism, Judaism, and Islam measure other states have at the coverage The Ap- who might not support gay already addressed by passpalachian has given to the marriage? Why was there ing their own amendments. issue of Amendment One. no attention given to them? Additionally, some supThe staff opinion and edi- The coverage given by porters point out that withtorial cartoon that ran in The Appalachian on the out a marriage amendment, Tuesday’s edition were Amendment One issue there is the possibility that highly offensive. For one, might as well advocate for a judge could legislate this the article implied that the Vote Against project. issue from the bench. By individuals of the Chris- Meghan Frick’s editorial allowing the citizens of tian faith do not have the takes a talking point di- North Carolina to vote on capacity to make informed rectly from the front page this issue, it lets the people decisions, and would rather of Protect NC Families’ decide on the issue rathjust vote how their preach- webpage, a clear oppo- er than an activist judge. er tells them to. At the nent of Amendment 1. The Appalachian has clearly church I attend, they do The misinformation on made this a partisan issue not advocate political is- Amendment One is also ri- when it’s not. In addition sues, nor has the Amend- diculous. Gay marriage ad- to Republicans, Demoment One issue been men- vocates say this is a ban on cratic members of the N.C. tioned during a sermon. gay marriage when it isn’t. House co-sponsored this Another issue I take with All Amendment One does measure. N.C. Democrats the opinion and cartoon is is reinforce a law that is al- also pushed to have this
issue on the ballot in May. I do not want to advocate one side or the other, but believe voters should be empowered to make an informed decision. Plenty of Republicans do not support this amendment, when consequently there are also Democrats who do support it. Therefore, this is not a partisan issue but rather a personal one. I am disappointed at the journalistic standards of The Appalachian for only covering one side of an issue to this extent. I would encourage all students to research both sides on their own and make an informed decision May 8. Nate Wright Junior management major
Sports The Appalachian
Men’s & Women’s Tennis:
Check out the brackets for the upcoming SoCon tournament at TheAppalachianOnline.com
| TheAppalachianOnline.com
April 19, 2012 •
8
Track and Field looks to defend SoCon title where the big points are. So I feel very good about that.” In conference scoring, the top he Appalachian State eight athletes in each event receive Mountaineers, the defend- points, while the top three finishing outdoor track and field ers are awarded the prestigious Allchampions, will travel to Cullo- Conference honor. whee this weekEach team is end in the hopes allotted 28 comof reclaiming their “Several of our ath- petition spaces for title. letes are ranked very men and 28 for The meet will women. take place Satur- high, in the top three, One of the 28 day and Sunday and that’s where the athletes representat Western Caroing the men’s team big points are. So I lina’s Catamount is senior Sean SoAthletic Complex. feel very good about derman, who will Last year’s conrun the 3,000-methat.” ference champiter steeplechase John Weaver onship win was and 5,000-meter Track and Field Head Coach the men’s team’s run. eighth title since “[My goals are] 2000 and the to come back and women’s seventh since 2002. West- win back-to-back steeplechase ern took second place in both the crowns and, overall, win as a team men’s and women’s divisions. for my last go around. Not just to “Number one goal is, we’d like win but absolutely crush everyone. to be able to defend that and win I can’t graduate on a losing record,” another one this year for each Soderman said. one,” head coach John Weaver said. On the women’s side, senior Asia “Hopefully we can score enough Dunlap has stood out all season points with all of them to win a and will compete in the 400-meter conference championship. Sev- and 800-meter this weekend. eral of our athletes are ranked very “Personal goals would be to finhigh, in the top three, and that’s ish in the top three in all of my by LEIGH ROBERTS
Senior Sports Reporter
T
Paul Heckert | The Appalachian
Freshman Debra Domermuth competes in the pole vault event during Friday's Appalachian Open. The team will compete in the SoCon tournament at Western Carolina this Saturday.
individual events,” Dunlap said. “I feel like, as a senior, I just need to put all of my effort onto the track this weekend and make my teammates proud.”
From a senior class that has been part of conference championship teams before, it sounds like they just want that feeling one last time. “As a senior and being my last
conference championship ever, I do feel like it will be a little more on the emotional side - but I’m just looking to do well and go out with a bang,” Soderman said.
Senior Seth Grant’s career year leads Mountaineer baseball starters by JAKE AMBERG Sports Editor
Last season, junior Seth Grant achieved a personal goal and finally broke into the Mountaineers’ weekend starting rotation. The good? Grant was reliable. He pitched the thirdmost innings on the team, posted the lowest opponent batting average and walked the fewest batters. The bad? He had the second-highest earned run average among starters and gave up six home runs, the most on the team.
But with a rigorous offseason training program, Grant has improved drastically for his senior year and has become an unlikely ace for ASU, with the sixthbest ERA in the Southern Conference at 2.98. “I learned a lot from last year at the end of the season, just looking at the whole picture and understanding what you have to do as a starter,” Grant said. “This year, I just put in a lot of time.” Grant attributes much of his success to a long-throw training program that in-
volves a pitcher throwing a baseball increasingly harder and farther to improve velocity and conditioning. He felt the program increased both. “Our whole bodies got stronger, we got a little bigger,” Grant said. “We put in a lot of hard work, and we’re seeing results from it.” Grant stormed out of the gate for the Mountaineers, throwing six innings and striking out eight batters in the first game of the season. Although it was a no-decision, it would set the tone for the junior, who has since
moved from starting on Fridays to Saturdays. Head coach Chris Pollard calls him the most important starting pitcher during the weekend rotation. “I’m really proud of Seth, because he’s a guy who has grown every year,” Coach Pollard said. “Just because you’re stronger physically, just because you’re throwing the baseball harder, or you become more athletic because of the work you’ve done in the weight room - it doesn’t guarantee you success. You still have to go out there and execute in the
moment, like they say, when the lights go on.” Fellow senior Ryan Arrowood, who joined Grant in the off-season training program, also claims improvement- not only from himself and Grant, but from the entire starting rotation. “It takes a lot of pressure off of our bullpen,” Arrowood said. “We’ve just been able to keep our pitch count down and go deeper into games.” Despite allowing a season-high of six earned runs Saturday against Georgia Southern, Grant is just fo-
cused on the next game. “Early in the year, when we had a bit of a win streak going, guys weren’t looking at the big picture - like ‘Oh, we have to win 40 games,’ or ‘We have to make a regional’ or stuff like that,” Grant said. “We were worried about one pitch, one at-bat, whatever each person’s job was, because that’s all you can control at that time.” Grant will pitch Saturday against Southern Conference rival Furman. The Mountaineers will kick off a three-game series with the Paladins Friday at 6 p.m.
Women’s tennis prepares for Women’s golf finishes 5th, playoff run against Western men’s golf 6th in Southern
Conference championships
by JORDAN DEVERE
Intern Sports Reporter
With the regular season at its end, women’s tennis now shifts its attention to the SoCon Tournament. The team secured a No. 6 seed and will face the No. 11 seed, rival Western Carolina, in the first round. Head coach Colin Crothers was pleased with the team’s results. “We finished as the sixth seed, since we have the tiebreaker over Elon,” he said. “It is one of the highest seeds we’ve had going into the tournament. It also means we play Western Carolina, the 11th seed, who we handled pretty well during the season. After that is Furman, who is always tough.” Crothers said he is looking for his seniors to carry the load during the tournament. “I look for the seniors to step up, especially in doubles,” Coach Crothers said. “The doubles point has been elusive to us.” Crothers will no doubt find another leader in junior Ellie Linsell, who has been the team’s number one throughout the year. “The pressure is a lot higher in the conference tournament,” Linsell said. “This is what we played for the whole semester. Thankfully, we’ve played tough matches and I’ve had the experience of being in situations against multiple good players, so I can focus on playing my best and let my tennis take over.” This is not the first tournament for Linsell or for most of the team. But for freshman Gabby Gabriel, this is a whole new ball game.
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Olivia Wilkes | The Appalachian
Senior Gisela Fernandez returns the ball during a home match versus UNCG.
“I am pretty nervous since this is my first SoCon Tourney, but I am also very excited,” Gabriel said. “I just want to enjoy every moment of it. For these upcoming matches we have, I’m going to make sure that I’m focused and consistent throughout the matches.” The Mountaineers will travel to Charleston, S.C. for the tournament, which lasts from April 19-22.
Men’s tennis readies for run in Southern Conference tournament
by JORDAN DAVIS
Intern Sports Reporter
Men’s tennis will enter the Southern Conference Men’s Tennis Championships this weekend as the No. 3 seed, the highest in team history. The tournament is hosted by the College of Charleston and the Citadel and will run Thursday through Sunday. The Mountaineers, who finished the season 7-2-1 in the SoCon and earned a first-round bye, will begin play on Friday. “Getting the three seed was big,” head coach Bob Lake said. “I’ve been the four or five seed around five times and that match-up is
“Mimi was pretty consistent throughout the tournament,” Brown said. “She really had one bad hole each round that Women’s golf battled back from a kind of kept her from scoring a little bettough first day of competition to place ter.” fifth at the SoCon Conference ChamSenior Brittany Zachrich rounded out pionships early this week, as the team the Mountaineer squad, carding a threeposted a three-round total of 329-309- round score of 90-90-85-- 265 (+49) to 313-- 951 (+51) place tied for 49th. The fifth-place finish was the highest Coach Brown was pleased with her SoCon Championship finish since ASU team’s effort and resiliency. placed fourth out of seven teams in 2002. “Coming in, I felt really good about On the men’s side, the Mountaineers how we had played all spring,” Coach finished in a tie for sixth Brown said. “It’s really place with the Furman pleasing, as a coach, to Paladins. have your best team per“I am really proud of Head coach Heather formance without really how the whole team Brown was pleased with leaning on one certain the Mountaineers’ re- buckled down and did individual. It’s a step in sults. the right direction for the best they could “It has been a while our program.” the final two rounds. since [ASU] has not Masamvu reiterated been in the cellar of the That is all you can ask some of her coach’s comconference,” Brown said. ments about the team’s for as a coach.” “I think we had some progress over her last Heather Brown people who put some three years. Women’s Golf Head Coach extra pressure on them“I feel like we have alselves the first day, but I ways had the talent to do am really proud of how really well at the SoCon the whole team buckled down and did Championship,” Masamvu said. “In past the best they could the final two rounds. years we have just had a hard time transThat is all you can ask for as a coach.” lating that into a good three-day score.” Junior Rumbi Masamvu was one of The men’s team was lead by sophothe players who struggled during the first more Casey Klomline, who finished the round, but came back and played some of tournament with a strong 72 in the final her best golf of the season in the final two round to finish 14th overall in the tourrounds. Masamvu placed sixth overall as nament - earning him all-conference first she shot 85-73-74-- 232 (+16). team honors. “We, as a team, really wanted to shoot Klomline was the only Mountaineer to low scores and I think I put too much finish on any all-conference team. pressure on myself to perform well the Although ASU can count on Klomline first day,” Masamvu said. “My final two for the next two years, the Mountainrounds were the most fun I have had eers will lose five seniors and one graduplaying golf all year.” ate student to graduation. That total inRedshirt junior Lauren Smith was cludessenior Darren Cook and graduate consistent all tournament. Smith tied for student Dustin Hudson, who finished 14th in shooting, 78-79-81— 237 (+21). 15th and 27th respectively in the conferReigning SoCon golfer of the month ence tournament. Yue “JoJo” Xu also came back from a The College of Charleston won the tough first round to place 18th, as she men’s tournament for the men. carded 83-77-78-- 238 (+22). Looking ahead to next year’s women’s “It was a great comeback for our whole team, on paper ASU will have its most team from the first day,” Xu said. “We talented and experienced squad in some beat most of our rivals we see during the time with four returning seniors. season.” “I expect to have all four back,” Brown Junior Mimi Burke shot 83-80-81-- said, “It will be our most experienced 244 (+28) to place 29th, and her coach team since I have been here if we have felt that she could have scored even lower our top four come back and compete next if not for a hole or two in each round. season.” By TYLER WOOD
a battle. It’s not always a happy day.” App will take its first opponent - the winner of Thursday’s Citadel v. Elon match - on Friday. The Mountaineers have already defeated both teams this season, in a 5-2 road win at Elon and a 7-0 shutout of the Citadel in Boone. Elon is limping into the tournament after losing six of its last seven matches, while the Citadel failed to get a conference win during the season. Looking ahead to the next round, App could have chance to avenge a 3-4 loss to Samford. The Bulldogs will be favored to win their first round match.
No matter how the tournament pans out, the team plans to approach the matches with the same mindset. “The opponents don’t matter,” senior Alex Markov said. “We just focus on winning match by match.” And coming off a win against top-seeded College of Charleston and one of the best seasons in school history, the team has no shortage in confidence. “We feel we’re close to the best, if not the best in the conference,” senior Phil Kloc said. “We only lost two really close road matches. When we’ve played as a team, no one has beaten us.”