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THE APPALACHIAN TheAppalachianOnline.com
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Vol. 87, No. 05
Academic freedom debate continues on campus by CHELSEY FISHER Senior News Reporter
by ANNE BUIE
Managing Editor
F
ollowing last year’s controversy about academic freedom at the university, Faculty Senate discussed academic freedom at their regularly scheduled meeting Monday. “I think many of us can agree that there has been a chill on this campus with regard to academic freedom and our faith in academic freedom especially in the classroom,” English professor Jill Ehnenn said. Last year, several faculty members voiced their complaints when tenured sociology professor Jammie Price was placed on administrative leave after students made seven allegations against Price, including engaging in “inappropriate speech and conduct” in the classroom. There has been a lot of fear, complaints and questions regarding academic freedom since last year, Enhenn said. “This is not an issue that just reflects the voices of five or six people,” Enhenn said.
Faculty members expressed their concerns, questions and suggestions to the Faculty Senate and Provost of Academic Affairs Lori Gonzalez. The administration will come up with answers regarding professors’ questions about academic freedom, Gonzalez said. Gonzalez said she is committed to academics and hopes to answer questions in a way that doesn’t “pit administration against faculty.” “I just ask that you offer the benefit of the doubt until you can prove that we are not supporting academic freedom,” Gonzalez said. “I have no doubt in the commitment to academic freedom by the administration,” said Jeff Holcomb, associate professor of government and justice studies, “But the way we protect academic freedom is to make sure the due process policy is properly laid out.” But not all professors were as optimistic as Holcomb following the meeting. Matthew Robinson, professor of government and justice studies, said none of
File Photos | The Appalachian
Matt Robinson (center) walks with sociology professor Jammie Price (left) across campus to Provost Lori Gonzalez’s (right) office on April 25, 2012 following the decision to place Price on administrative leave. Academic freedom was a main topic at Monday’s faculty senate meeting.
his questions were answered. “This was very frustrating and disappointing,” Robinson said. “But I have been
Boone’s housing market sales begin increasing by STEPHANIE SANSOUCY
ing up kids and families and buying goods which increases our Intern News Reporter economy,” White said. This year has been the best year Currently rent is high, but for Boone’s housing economy White said it has the potential to since 2007, said Marc White of lower next year from the increase Cash Realty & Construction and of approximately 1,000 beds for president of the Multiple Listing college students. Services. “That means we will have more Before the housing crash, 2007 places to rent, housing prices are was the last year of great activity, going to go down just a little bit White said. Sales and rent is going to are finally startgo down just a liting to go up and “That means we will tle bit,” White said. almost paralleling S h a n n o n have more places to Hawkins the number of sales of rent, housing prices Boone’s Advanced in 2007. This alone, are going to go down Realty Property White said, is a said the average just a little bit and good indication of rent of an apartrent is going to go the market’s “rement within walkturn to normalcy.” down just a little bit.” ing distance of ApOne of the reapalachian’s campus Marc White, Cash Realty & sons for the inis between $700 Construction crease of sales is and $800, while from buyers feelthe average rent for ing more confident an apartment that in the economy, he said. requires commuting to campus is “It’s starting to slowly get better between $700 and $650. and it’s going to be a slow growth However, she said she agrees over a number of years, but as that rent should go down next year, goes up we are going to continue specifically in apartments that reto see an increase in transactions,” quire commuting. White said. Matt Wilcox who works with White said the recent growth is Highland Woods Apartments also from the university hiring for said they are expecting rent to stay the first time in three years. the same because they are comThe new employees are “bring- pletely full this year.
told that my questions will be answered by the Provost and provided to the Faculty Senate. I eagerly await those
answers because these are questions that must be answered in order for faculty to be able to freely do their
jobs without fear of discipline or reprisal for discussing potentially controversial or upsetting issues in class.”
Physical Plant Director awarded by APPA by LINDSAY BOOKOUT Intern News Reporter
Mike O’Connor, director of the university’s physical plant, was awarded the President’s Award from the Association of Physical Plant Administrators. He was one of six individuals receiving the President’s Award, given to APPA members who have demonstrated exceptional achievement in facilities management and who have made outstanding contributions to the association. “It was such as shock when I got it,” O’Connor said. “I’m kind of undeserving.” The President’s Award is given to individual APPA members who have demonstrated exceptional achievement in facilities management and who have made outstanding contributions to the association, according to appa.org. O’Connor, who was born “a military brat” and then joined the navy, had moved 26 times when he moved to Boone at age 46. He started as a navy pilot and then spent 20 years serving as a civil engineer doing facilities management. At one point, he was the commanding officer at the presiden-
Maggie Cozens | The Appalachian
Director of the physical plant Mike O'Connor has recently won APPA President's Award for his achievement in facilities management.
tial retreat Camp David, where he and his family lived on the camp with President George W. Bush, O’Connor said. “We went to church with the president, we got to eat with the president, go running with the president,” O’Connor said. “It was very interesting.” A military base is a lot like a college campus, O’Connor said. There are “young” people, the dining halls, residence halls, education facilities and both regu-
lated by the government. “I’m just lucky to be able to work with the physical plant and hopefully lead it in the right direction,” O’Connor said. “All of the credit” goes to the physical plant employees without a doubt, O’Connor said, since they are the ones having to “turn the wrenches” and do very dangerous work. “Mike O’Connor is one of my favorite people on campus,” Ged Moody, the university sustainability director, said. Moody and O’Connor have been working together for four years, Moody said. The way their jobs are set up, there should be a natural tension, but Moody said he and O’Connor have maintained a really great working relationship. O’Connor is always open to how to do things more sustainably and is always willing to change even if it means more work for him, Moody said. “This job is a challenge, but if I had everything I needed and all the money I needed and all the people I needed, it would be boring,” O’Connor said. “I’d want to go work somewhere else, find somewhere where there is a challenge. You have to have something to fix and work on.”
American brewing starting to get crafty, Appalachian brewers to see benefits by KELLI STRAKA News Editor
by DANIEL STEVENSON Intern News Reporter
Mid-year results from Brewer’s Association show craft breweries growing by a large percentage in United States, according to brewersassociation.org. The Brewer’s Association, a trade association representing a large majority of American breweries, reported an increase of dollar sales of 14 percent for craft breweries, as well as increase in the number of breweries overall, which has been a growth of 350 since June 2011. The number of jobs provided through craft breweries in the country now is 104,000, which
includes related jobs such as servers and bartenders. In June 2012, the Bachelor of Science degree program in fermentation sciences was approved by the UNC General Administration for the university. The program accepted its first students this fall. “I think [the numbers] demonstrate the necessity of our program,” said Seth Cohen, director of fermentation sciences and the College of Arts and Sciences. Cohen said he knows that the growth of craft brewing holds a lot of potential for students. A higher percentage of fermentation science students are finding jobs with the smaller crafts because of new breweries
opening, Cohen said. “They’re very environmentally conscien“A growth in the industry means a lot of tious, good employers, so across the board, job opportunities,” he said. it’s great for the economy,” he said. Students in the department learn how Michael Schriber, co-owner of Glug to operate and work Beer and Wine,said he with a brew house on a has definitely noticed small-scale and develop “They’re very environmen- the growing popularity recipes with microbiolof craft beer in his sales tally conscientious, good ogy and chemistry, Cothrough his 12 years in employers, so across the hen said. Boone. board, it’s great for the “I think it’s been “It’s blowing up,” economy.” great,” said Brett TaubSchriber said. “Craft Brett Taubman, chemistry professor man, a professor in the beer is taking over the chemistry department market and everybody who works with the knows it.” fermentation sciences department. Schriber, who is an Appalachian alumni, The craft breweries are a “great” small said he thinks people “respect the art and business, Taubman said. science behind” craft beers.
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September 13, 2012 |
Appalachian student creates AppalCART app
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The AsUBus smartphone app was created by sophomore computer science major Brian Clee. The app lists all 11 AppalCART routes, and features a minute-by-minute countdown for bus arrivals. “I thought it could be a lot simpler, especially for freshmen,” Clee said. It has already grossed over 500 downloads on iTunes. Clee created the app for a final project for a mobile programming class, and he continued to expand on the app after his professor complimented the app. The app is not officially affiliated with AppalCART though, this is purely Clee’s creation. Finance Officer for AppalCART Michael Norwood said “no decision has been made” to join with the app.
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Health Services receives national accreditation by KELLI STRAKA News Editor
by MITCHELL LEA
Intern News Reporter
This August, M.S. Shook Student Health Service received accreditation from the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care for the fourth time, Director of Student Health Services Dr. Bob Ellison said. AAAHC, a national, private, non-profit organization, is the “leader in developing standards to advance and promote patient safety, quality car and value for ambulatory health care through peer-based accreditation processes, education and research,” according to aaahc.org. Accreditation is awarded to organizations that are found to be in compliance with AAAHC Standards. “It’s nice to receive accreditation but we never get too satisfied because we know we can improve and
do it again,” Ellison said. Appalachian received the accreditation, which lasts for three years, for the first time in 2003. “It feels absolutely incredible,” Nurse Supervisor for Health Services Joyce Moretz Young said. “It’s almost like winning the gold medal for student health.” Appalachian’s Health Services possesses “excellence,” Moretz Young said. “You are not able to pass this intensive of a survey without being able to demonstrate excellence,” Moretz Young said. The process begins when the clinic is examined by a representative from AAAHC monitors the clinic for a couple of days to ensure that they provide high quality healthcare, Ellison said. “It’s not just a quick pass by,” she said. “It’s almost like someone with a microscope or magnifying glass comes in and looks at you.” Vice Chancellor of Student De-
velopment Cindy Wallace and the Office of Student Development were supportive with their words and actions, Moretz Young said. “From my perspective, I think we have the best staff in student health that we’ve had in years,” Wallace said. “They have worked so hard to deliver the best healthcare possible to our students.” Wallace said Appalachian’s Health Services provides highquality healthcare with a very low cost. “Walking in there, they’re going to be well cared for and, I think, have their needs met, which keeps our students fully engaged in their academic endeavors and their university endeavors,” Wallace said. AAAHC provides accreditation not only for colleges and universities, but also for community health services, urgent care centers, imaging center, U.S. military health facilities and many other entities, Moretz Young said.
Friday marks final day for SGA senator elections by KELLI STRAKA News Editor
by DANIEL STEVENSON Intern News Reporter
Student Government Association senator elections are open for voting until 8 a.m. Friday on AppalNet. The elections began Monday. “I think that SGA is a great way to show how much of a leader you can be,” SGA Vice President Eric Barnes said. After the last day of elections, a petition process is available to fill the remaining seats of the senate, equaling 83 in total. SGA President Jake Cox and Barnes hope to average 60 to 70 senators on the board this year. Last year, Barnes said the beginning of the year had 60 senators, but the
number dropped down to about 40. “I’d like to have as many senators as we can, because we’re representing 16,000 students,” Barnes said. Although SGA is considered a professional organization, Barnes said he and Cox would like to make it more personal, both with the senators and students. Another hope for Barnes is to get more students to come out and view the senatorial meetings. “It’s not some secret meeting,” he said. Sophomore secondary education English major Nathan Bailey is running for senator this year as a University Funded Organization seat for the Residence Hall Association. Bailey was senator during
the spring 2012 semester. Bailey said the leadership opportunity was one reasons he’s running for senate. “I could actually make a physical change on campus for the betterment of everybody,” Bailey said. Sophomore global studies and political science major Arianna Bonner is running for the Appalachian Panhellenic Hall representative this year. Last year, Bonner represented Eggers Hall. “I met great and interesting people,” Bonner said. “That was neat to have that group to connect with.” Kaitlin Brown serves on SGA cabinet this year as the director of Student Affairs. Brown, now a junior elementary education ma-
Businesses, police prepare for football by KASI MITCHELL
longer than usual.” But police aren’t the only organizations affected. Local business Anna Banana’s specialWhen the university home game days arrive, the Boone Police Department ad- izes their store for game day customers, justs their standard procedures to accom- Megan Ternes, Publicist of Anna Bamodate for the influx of people, Boone nana’s said. “We like to pull black and gold clothPatrol Officer Ray Blevins said. “Typically in the morning, we have ing from the racks and make a mountaineer display so fans and shopofficers putting up road barpers can represent ASU for riers in specific areas such less,” Ternes said. “We keep as Hemlock and Stadium “We keep the the music upbeat and the Drive,” Blevins said. “Along with that, we set up alcohol music upbeat and energy high to get everyone prohibition signs in certain the energy high pumped up for the game.” Bill Corriher, owner of tailgating parking lots so to get everyone local business Mountaineer citizens are aware of where pumped up for Mania, said he prepares his they are allowed and not althe game.” store for home game days six lowed drink.” months in advance. Boone Police officers also Megan Ternes, Publicist of “We look up the football increase their presence on Anna Banana’s schedule early in the spring, foot patrols and bike patrols, so we can purchase our so more officers are working merchandise according to that day, Blevins said. The University Police employ a few either September or November weather extra officers to cover more ground, games,” Corriher said. Mountaineer Mania especially pays atBlevins said. “After the game lets out, one exciting tention and prepares merchandise for the thing that we get to do is have officers Homecoming game date, Corriher said. “Also, we have an extra cash regisat certain intersections controlling the traffic lights to help the flow of traffic,” ter open and make sure to hire employBlevins said. “Especially on Kings Street ees that don’t mind working on football and Hardin Street, we allow the traffic go game days,” Corriher said. Intern News Editor
jor, served as a senator her freshman year. Serving as a senator is the best way to make changes, Brown said. Her advice to this year’s senators is to “give it your all,” she said. “It really can be a great opportunity,” Brown said. For on-campus housing, there are two representatives for each residence hall, totaling 42 seats. For off-campus housing, there are 39 seats available. The remaining twelve seats are held by UFOs such as Appalachian Popular Programming Society, the Women’s Center, Appalachian and the Community Together and the Interfraternity Council. SGA senate holds public meetings in Linville Falls weekly on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.
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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.
A Service of the Division of Student Development
Summer experience an adventure Appalachian State University senior Tommy Penick, a technical photography major, spent his summer vacation working as a studio manager for Trevor Clark, an outdoor adventure photographer based in Stateline, Nev., along the shore of beautiful Lake Tahoe. It was a summer experience that allowed Penick the opportunity to focus on what he loves best: outdoor adventure photography. It was an earlier internship that garnered him the connections he needed to start developing his dream career. Penick always knew he wanted a career in photography. Initially, when declaring his technical photography major, he envisioned himself working as a photojournalist after graduating from Appalachian. But after an internship with the Winston-Salem Journal the summer of his sophomore year and developing a burgeoning freelance career shooting assignments for such publications as the Seattle Times, he began to rethink his career path. “After a sharp decline in the photojournalism in-
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dustry following the 2008 economic crash, I began to think hard about other markets I could reach with my photography skills and interests,” Penick said. “Whenever I was getting assignments for newspapers or magazines, I was always hoping that they’d be outside. It was only a matter of time for me to realize that’s where my primary focus needed to be,” he said. Penick started to research the best outdoor adventure photographers in the industry; photographers who specialize in photographing kayaking, rock climbing, skiing, and mountain biking for their clients. He also started to research how this photography is used in the editorial, commercial and stock photography marketplaces. A technically adept photographer, Penick knew he needed to network and find mentorship and help so he could better understand the market for adventure photography and who the photo-buyers were. He started an email campaign soliciting possible summer internships with some of the photographers whose work he respected.
The door of opportunity soon opened for Penick when Lauren Carroll, a photojournalist he’d worked with during his earlier internship at the WinstonSalem Journal, introduced him via Facebook to Trevor Clark, a photographer whose work Penick had admired for some time. Clark is a nationally recognized outdoor adventure photographer based in the Lake Tahoe area. His client list includes Patagonia, Outside Magazine, Time Life, Canoe & Kayak, National Geographic Adventure, Red Bull and Lowe Pro. Phone conversations between the two ensued and they formalized their plans for the summer internship with a plan of attack that would both benefit Penick’s development and market place insights and Clark’s goal to move from the mid-level marketplace to the upper-tier commercial market. It quickly became apparent to Penick that this internship was developing into a collaboration with a respected mentor who would help give him access to the tight-knit community of adventure photographers
and their client base. Penick was going to be involved first-hand in Clark’s attempt to grow his business to a new level with complete access and all the insights this would bring. During the summer, Penick’s duties included shooting and editing Clark’s new “about video” for his website http://trevorclarkphoto.com/about. Penick was charged with creating a marketing video that would give highend photo buyers a sense of Clark’s personality and photography work. Penick’s responsibilities also included Photoshop retouching, stock photo submissions, IT server building and photo assisting during location shoots. Through this internship, Penick had the opportunity to travel to various California locations including Squaw Valley, San Diego and San Onofre where he was introduced to new industry contacts with several magazine editors. (Article submitted by Chip Williams, Williams is assistant professor of technical photography in Appalachian’s Department of Technical and Environmental Design.)
Fall Visiting Writers Series set
The Fall 2012 Hughlene Bostian Frank Visiting Writers Series continues with novelist, poet, and biographer Robert Morgan on Thursday, Sept. 27, when he will speak in the Table Rock Room of Plemmons Student Union at 7:30 p.m. Morgan will also conduct a Craft Talk on Writing the Story of History in the Table Rock Room from 3:30 to 4:45 p.m. Morgan is the author of 30 books of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction, most recently the poetry collection “Terroir” and two works of nonfiction, “Boone: A Biography,” and “Lions of the West: Heroes and Villains of the Westward Expansion.” His eight works of fiction include “Gap Creek,” a New York Times bestseller and Oprah Book Club selection. A sequel, “The Road to Gap Creek,” will be published in 2013. The recipient of an American academy of Arts and Letters Award for Literature, he was inducted into the North Carolina Literary Hall of Fame in 2010. Since 1971, he has taught creative writing and literature in the graduate program at Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y., where he is Kappa Alpha Professor of English. Fiction writer and editor Gurney Norman will be the next visiting writer on Thursday, Oct. 4, when he will talk at 7:30 p.m. in the student union’s Table Rock Room. There will be a pre-reading reception in the Multicultural Center from 6 until 7:15 p.m. An Author Talk, “Was Steve Jobs a Hillbilly?” will be held from 3:30 to 4:45 p.m. in the Table Rock Room. Norman served as Poet Laureate of Kentucky in 2009-10. His first novel, “Divine Right’s Trip” appeared serially in the Last Whole Earth Catalog and was published by Dial Press and Bantam Books in 1972. History collections include “Kinfolks: The Wilgus Stories” and “Book One form Crazy Quilt: A Novel in Progress.” Norman is serving as the 2012 Rachel Rivers-Coffey Distinguished Professor of Creative Writing at Appalachian State University. Poet and essayist C.S. Giscombe will speak on Thursday, Oct. 25, in the Table Rock Room of Plemmons Student Union at 7:30 p.m. He will also conduct a Craft Talk, “Field Trips,” in Room 421, 4th floor, Belk Library, at 3:30 to 4:45 p.m. Giscombe was born in Dayton, Ohio. Giscombe is the 2010 recipient of the Stephen Henderson Award in Poetry, given by the African American Literature and Culture Society. “Prairie Style” was awarded a 2008 American Book Award by the Before Columbus Foundation. “Giscome Road” won the 1998 Carl Sandburg Prize, given by the Chicago Public Library. Giscombe teaches poetry at the University of California, Berkeley. For more information on the fall season, call 262-2871, or go to www.visitingwriters.appstate.edu.
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. Mondays 1:30-3 p.m., Tuesdays 1:30-3 p.m. and 3-4:30 p.m. USOGet Moving (moving your body to increase wellness- see below for details), Wednesdays 2:30-4 p.m., Thursdays 1:30-3 p.m. (Transitions to ASU Group, doesn’t start until October) and USO-DOG 3:30-5 p.m. (group Therapy with co-leaders and a therapy dog) Lesbian/Gay /Bisexual Therapy Group—This group will present an opportunity for lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals to explore life challenges. Fridays 1-2:30 p.m. 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. Wednesdays 3-4:30 p.m. 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. Wednesdays 5-6:30 p.m. (For information contact Sheri Clark: 262-3180 or clarksl@appstate.edu) Food/Mood Group—This group is designed for students who use food and/or exercise to cope in ways that would be considered “unhealthy”. To Be Determined. An Introduction to Mindfulness Group—Mindfulness involves stepping out of “auto-pilot” reactions and learning to pay more attention to our present experiences. Mondays 3:30-5 p.m. USO-Get Movin’ Active Bodies Healthy Minds—Did you know that exercise is one of the best mental health interventions we know of? Tuesdays 3-4:30 p.m. To get started with a Counseling Center group, come to the Counseling Center during Walk-In Clinic, call 262-3180 or visit our website for more information www.counseling.appstate.edu. If you are interested in group but these times do not work for you, please get in touch with Chris Carden at 262-3180 or cardendc@appstate.edu.
Let’s beat the record again!
Appalachian State University will hold its 1,000-pint blood drive on Wednesday, Sept. 26, 2012, sponsored by the ACT Office. This homecoming sponsored service event collected a record-breaking 1,255 pints of blood last year for the American Red Cross, making this the largest university blood drive in the country. Help beat the record again from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the Holmes Center. There is a need for all talented students, faculty, staff and community members to entertain donors and volunteers through song, dance, music, balloon sculpture, whatever your talent may be. Longterm volunteers (5 hours or longer) are also being recruited. If interested in being a long-term volunteer, please email blooddrive@appstate.edu for more information. To sign up, go to specialevents.appstate.edu/blooddrive.
ASU biology offers free classes
Free classes on the selection of shade and sun-loving perennial and evergreen groundcovers for the Boone landscape will be offered Sept. 22 by the Department of Biology. The class will meet from 9:30-11 a.m. and at 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the greenhouse located at 333 Dale St. off State Farm Road. Classes are free, although attendees may pay an optional registration fee to help support greenhouse operations and education efforts. To reserve a space, email meyerja@appstate.edu. Call 262-4025 for more information. Class discussion will include information on how to purchase online, plant, and care for these useful florae and greeneries, many of which offer multi-seasonal interest. The class is taught as part of the “High Country Gardening” program led by Jerry Meyer, manager of the greenhouse and conservatory.
PADI scuba course at ASU
Appalachian State University Recreation is offering a PADI scuba certification course to the Boone community and ASU students/faculty/staff. Registration is required. The class will run from Sept. 16 through Oct. 7. Registration instructions, forms, and fee information is available at www.aquatics. appstate.edu. If you would like more information on this topic or other aquatic related programs, please call Cheryl Eddins, Assistant Director for Aquatics, at (828) 262-2100,
2012 Multicultural programming Fall Programs Tuesday, Sept. 18, Blue Ridge Ballroom, 7 p.m., “History, Africa, and Islam in the Making of the Modern World: A Postmodern Philosophical Exploration.” Africa and Islam play fundamental roles in the making of the modern world, politically, economically, and culturally. Dr. Omar H. Ali is an Associate Professor of African Diaspora History & Politics at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and a graduate of the London School of Economics and Political Science. He received his Ph.D. in history from Columbia University. Thursday, Oct. 18, Blue Ridge Ballroom, 7 p.m., “The Wrong Side of Murder Creek: A White Southerner in the Freedom Movement.” Prominent activist Bob Zellner was at the scene 51 years ago for most of the key milestones of the civil rights movement, putting his life on the line and taking notes. Dr. Zellner will share some of the untold stories of the civil rights movement from the perspective of a white southerner. Raised in southern Alabama, with a father and grandfather active in the Ku Klux Klan, Bob Zellner became an unlikely civil rights activist. Yet today, he is well known as one of the most influential white southerners of the civil rights movement of the 1960s, in part for organizing “The Freedom Rides” of 1961. Tuesday, Nov. 27, Legends Nightclub, 6 p.m., Kwanzaa Celebration. Kwanzaa is the first African American holiday established in the United States. Friday, Nov 30, Blue Ridge Ballroom, 5 p.m., Find Yosef a Holiday Festival. This fair-style event offers an “a la carte menu” of the images, sounds, foods, and activities that represent winter holidays from around the world. Attendees will learn in fun and interactive ways about many international holidays, cultures and customs. Spring 2013 Programs Tuesday, January 22, 2013, Holmes Center, 7 p.m., The 29th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration: An Evening with Maya Angelou. Dr. Maya Angelou is hailed as one of the great voices of contemporary black literature and as a remarkable Renaissance woman. A mesmerizing vision of grace, swaying and stirring when she moves; Dr. Angelou captivates her audiences lyrically with vigor, fire and perception. Dr. Angelou, born Marguerite Johnson on April 4, 1928, in St. Louis was raised in segregated rural Arkansas. She is a poet, historian, author, actress, playwright, civil-rights activist, producer and director. She lectures throughout the U.S. and abroad and is a lifetime Reynolds professor of American Studies at Wake Forest University in North Carolina since 1981. Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2013, Blue Ridge Ballroom, 7 p.m. “Hidden Voices: The Lives of Queer Muslims.” Participants will learn about sexual and gender minorities within the Muslim world and examine the complex intersection of Islam, sexuality and gender. Faisal Alam is a queer-identified Muslim activist of Pakistani descent. At age 19, while trying to reconcile his sexuality with his faith, Faisal organized the firstever gathering of LGBT Muslims, which led to the founding of Al-Fatiha, an organization dedicated to supporting and empowering lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex & questioning (LGBTIQ) Muslims, and their allies. Today, Al-Fatiha has sister organizations around the world including Canada, South Africa, Spain, United Kingdom, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine & Indonesia.
or visit our website at www.aquatics.appstate.edu.
Research, travel grants available
The Office of Student Research (OSR) is accepting applications for both GSAS Research and GSAS Travel Grants. All currently enrolled Appalachian graduate students in good academic standing, whose program department has an active GSAS Senator, are eligible to apply for research and travel grants of up to $500. The fall deadlines for GSAS applications are Sept. 14, and Nov. 2. Please go to the GSAS home page regarding specifics relating to each deadline and grant at http://gsas.appstate.edu/grant-information. Any questions can be directed to the Office of Student Research at 262-7655.
Constitution Day program Sept. 17
Discussions focusing on “The U.S. Constitution and the Death Penalty” will be held Monday, Sept. 17, at 6:30 p.m. in Room 114 Belk Library and Information Commons at Appalachian State University. Dr. Rhys Hester from the Department of Government and Justice Studies will present “Evolving Standards of Democracy: The Supreme Court’s Role in the Debate Over the Death Penalty.” Dr. Marian Williams, also from the Department of Government and Justice Studies will present “The Jury and the Death Penalty: Issues and Concerns.” Constitution Day recognizes adoption of the U.S. Constitution. The observance was created in 2004 with the passage of an amendment by the late Sen. Robert Byrd. The amendment requires that all publicly funded educational institutions provide educational programming on the history of the American Constitution on that day.
REI to meet Sept. 21 in Plemmons
The ASU Renewable Engergy Initiative will meet Friday, Sept. 21, from 12:30 to 2 p.m. in the New River Room, Plemmons Student Union. REI’s mission is to reduce the environmental impact of ASU by replacing the university’s existing sources of energy with cleaner forms of renewable energy technology on campus, and serve as a resource for students and faculty by identifying and investing in the most appropriate energy projects. REI committee meetings are open to the public. If you have an idea for a renewable energy project on campus or if you would like to find out more about current projects, feel free to attend any of REI’s meetings. Monthly meetings are: Oct. 4, 7:30-9 a.m., New River Room; Oct. 19, noon-1:30 p.m., New River Room; Nov. 1, 7:30-9 a.m., Watauga River Room; Nov. 16, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., New River Room; and Nov. 29, 7:30-9 a.m., Watauga River Room.
A&E
The Appalachian
September 13, 2012 |
| TheAppalachianOnline.com
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Senior finds brother, friend through Western Review: Final Youth Network’s mentoring program by MICHAEL BRAGG
T
A&E Editor
his Monday marks one year since senior Brett Smith gained a brother. Smith, a recreation management major, is a mentor through Western Youth Network’s mentoring program. He met his mentee, 13-year-old Dylan Johnson, on Sept. 18, 2011. The pair hit it off right away. “I remember I was wearing a dragon T-shirt that day and Dylan was like, ‘Is that a dragon on your shirt?’ and I was like, ‘Yeah,’” Smith said. “And he said, ‘We’re going to get along great.’” WYN’s mentoring program is comparable to other big brother/big sister programs. “We’ll match guys with guys and girls with girls and once that match is established, they will go out and do their own thing together and they are a pair,” Executive Director Jennifer Grubb said. Smith said he got involved with the program because he felt called to do it. “I just had an inclination that I wanted to be a mentor and I wanted to do something in a kid’s life,”
he said. “I’m also a big kid myself.” Johnson was referred to the program by his teachers at Green Valley Elementary School. “At school, I didn’t have a lot of friends,” Johnson said. “They talked to me about [the mentoring program] at school, a bunch of teachers did.” Before the matchup happened, Smith and Johnson filled out forms that described their interests and activities they enjoyed. Johnson said he waited about two months before being matched with Smith. The program currently has a need for male volunteers to meet the demand for male mentors, Grubb said. “I don’t understand why there aren’t as many males mentoring,” Smith said. “Maybe they feel intimidated or worried about taking care of a kid. I have a lot of fun hanging out with Dylan. He’s a guy, too -- just a smaller guy.” Growing up, Smith said he could have used a mentor. He lived with a single mom who worked and was a “latchkey kid” who stayed home alone after school. “I kind of wish I had been in a mentoring program when I was in mid-
episodes of ‘Weeds’ approach by TAYLOR BRIGGS Intern A&E Reporter
Paul Heckert | The Appalachian
Dylan Johnson, 12, passes a football to his 'big brother' senior rec. management major Brett Smith. Dylan and Brett have been paired together for a year through the Western Youth Network.
dle school,” he said. “I look back on just how weird I was in middle school and just how much it could have helped me.” Smith plans to stick around Boone for two years after graduation, but eventually wants to travel abroad. When that day comes, Johnson has a plan. “There is a piece of tape
on the floor at Dylan’s house that says ‘Brett’s Spot,’” Smith said. So that if I ever end up moving out west to Colorado, Washington, California, New Zealand or anywhere else in the world where I can go, if we lose each other’s phone numbers, I have to walk my happy butt back to his house, knock on the
door and stand on ‘Brett’s Spot.’” And the mentor-mentee experience has influenced Johnson to look into being a mentor one day. “I’d definitely go for it and try it,” he said. For more information on WYN, go to westernyouthnetwork.org/mentoring or call 828-264-5174.
Speakeasy artists display a different kind of work by MICHAEL BRAGG A&E Editor
Instead of putting their artwork on skin, the artists of Speakeasy Tattoo Co. displayed their talent on more traditional backdrops Friday night. Speakeasy owner Greg Kinnamon and other tattoo artists from the shop displayed original work at downtown Boone’s Shear Shakti. Two Charlotte artists -- Thomas Michael of 510 Expert Tattoo and Mike French of Blood, Sweat and Tears -- contributed as well. Shear Shakti owner Charlotte Baxter usually holds the show at the salon for Michael, a childhood friend who came to Chapel Hill from Liverpool, England. This year, she added local talent to the mix. “Charlotte has Thomas Michael every year do an art show and last year he asked if we wanted to be a part of it,” Kinnamon said. Kinnamon is no stranger to reaching out to the community with his tattoo shop. He hosts the annual Tattoos for Schools Fundraiser. Custom-
Michael Bragg | The Appalachian
Senior anthropology major Michael Story views Speakeasy tattoo artist Anthony French's 'Gypsy Woman' at Speakeasy's art show. Story has tattoos done by both French and Speakeasy Tattoo Co. Owner Greg Kinnamon.
ers can get a shamrock tattoo for $10. All funds benefit elementary school art programs. “I really appreciate the community aspect that Greg has,” Baxter said of Kinnamon, who is from Boulder, Colo. “He’s not been here forever, he’s definitely not a local
Theatre & Dance boasts promising fall line-up by WILL GREENE
Intern A&E Reporter
Appalachian State University’s Theatre & Dance department just announced its fall schedule, which will deliver a variety of student showcases. The season will kick off with the annual First Year Showcase, which will run Thursday, Sept. 27 to Saturday, Sept. 29 and showcase the talents of students new to the program. It will conclude with the New Play Festival, held Thursday, Nov. 29 to Saturday, Dec. 1, which will feature one-act plays written, produced, performed and directed by students. Theatre & Dance Chair Marianne Adams heads the committee which sets out to select each year’s performances. “Deciding a season is always somewhat of a puzzle,” Adams said. “Factors considered are the number and type of student roles, choosing a balance of time periods and play styles over a four-year period, artistic inspirations of the faculty, [and] ability to produce the ‘whole’ season in terms of design, technical and budgetary
constraints.” Student interest is pivotal to the success of the season, Adams said. “Our production funding is, for the most part, from student development and is student fee-supported,” Adams said. “And that interest is important because the performing arts are the living, breathing pulse of a community. The performing arts have always brought issues to light that need to be discussed, showcased visionary thinkers and demonstrated creative problem-solving.” Some students’ interest leads to involvement -- like sophomore undecided major Shane Jones, who starred in “The Odd Couple” last spring. “It’s just a really cool form of entertainment that not a lot of people tend to recognize anymore,” Jones said. Other students are simply supporters. “I have always supported my high school drama program and plan to do the same at Appalachian State,” freshman undecided major Wes Capps said. For more information, visit theatre.appstate. edu.
and he’s made his thumbprint and done so much for everybody.” Senior anthropology major Michael Story stopped by Friday’s art show to see artwork from his friend Anthony French -- a Speakeasy tattoo artist and Mike French’s son.
“I would like to buy Anthony French’s original ‘Gypsy Woman’ because she is just the sexiest thing I have ever seen,” Story said. Story has had work done by both French and Kinnamon and referred to Speakeasy as one of the best tattoo shops in western North Carolina. “If you’re going to get something on your body, then collect a piece of art,” he said. “Don’t try to bargain. It’s going to be something you’re investing money into for the rest of your life. That thing is on you for the rest of your life, so why not get the best thing that you can get?” Kinnamon said he’s grateful to own his shop in a growing college town, where students are discovering “something new every day that kind of blows them away.” “When they discover Speakeasy, I think it’s another one of those days for them where they’re like, ‘Wow, I did pick the right school,” he said. “This is a cool place to go to school.’” The artwork from Friday night that was not sold will continue to hang at Shear Shakti for the next two months, Kinnamon said.
Up in Smoke offers Boone’s hookah scene a breath of fresh air
For those who have been watching “Weeds” since its genesis in 2005, Sunday, Sept. 16 is a day of high hopes, nailbiting anxiety and great anticipation. The reason: Sunday holds the premiere of episodes 101 and 102, the final two episodes of the show’s final season. The two wrap-up episodes will be aired back-to-back, making for a full hour of “Weeds” for the first time in the series’ history. After the conclusion of episode 100 this week, viewers were left hanging with several burning questions: What will come of Andy and Nancy’s relationship? How will Guillermo and Conrad be involved in Nancy and Silas’s grow plans ? Will Doug be successful in his attempt to scam the government through the founding of his own religion? Will Silas follow through in rekindling the flame with his longtime ex-girlfriend, Megan? Most importantly, will writer/producer Jenji Kohan satisfy her viewers’ curiosity or leave them wondering as usual? So far, season eight has revived some of the excitement lost during the previous few seasons, including improved character development and plot mobility. Throughout seasons four, five, six and seven, many fans felt disappointed by the loss of the intrigue that drove the series through its first three seasons, which saw stellar reviews and loyal viewership. The saving grace of the final season has been the decision to reunite the central characters under one roof. Having Nancy, Andy, Silas Shane and Doug back in a unified setting has given the writers room to play, allowed for interaction between the main characters and simplified the context of the show. The plot once again has the involvement and drama fans first came to love in 2005. Long-and-short-term viewers of “Weeds” should be sure to catch Sunday’s two episodes. They promise to be filled to the brim with thrill, drama and -- hopefully -- closure.
Rating:
2.5 out of 4 stars
Michael Bragg | The Appalachian
Up in Smoke Co-Owner Devin Lattin exhales a drag from one of the business' hookahs. Lattin co-owns the hookah lounge with fellow alumni Eric Lippert.
BYOB hookah bar supplies tobacco-free shisha by MICHAEL BRAGG A&E Editor
Editor’s Note: The following is the third part of a fivepart series about local, new businesses in Boone. After opening its doors back in July, Up In Smoke Retail and Hookah Lounge is the third hookah bar in Boone since Koncepts and Revolution. Appalachian alumnus Eric Lippert, who previously worked with Koncepts, and Hot Diggity Dog owner Devin Lattin opened the lounge together, but to work around North Carolina’s indoor
smoking laws, they supply shisha that is 100 percent tobacco free and is a hydro herbal, molasses product. “It’s a product made entirely for your smoking pleasure,” Lippert said. “It’s meant to have the flavors enjoyed. The flavors are way, way better than traditional tobacco-based shisha.” While most places in downtown Boone close at 2 a.m., Up In Smoke stays open an extra hour on Fridays and Saturdays. “It’s all about coming out and having a good time with your friends,” Lippert said. The hookah lounge is
BYOB to an 80 ounce limit. If customers bring a six-pack, Lippert said they will keep it in a fridge and serve it, but if they bring a bottle of wine, the customers have to bring their own glasses, since Up In Smoke does not have an alcohol license. “The one thing people always tell you is that college is all about the experience, you come out here to have fun,” Lippert said. “It’s that last time before the real world.” Up in Smoke is open from 4 p.m. until 2 a.m. Sunday through Wednesday and until 3 a.m. Thursday through Saturday.
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OPINION
The Appalachian | | TheAppalachianOnline.com TheAppalachianOnline.com The Appalachian
| September 13, 2012
THE APPALACHIAN Your student newspaper since 1934
STAFF OPINION
Neither Obama, Romney prepared for presidency
HANNAH POMPHREY Editor-in-Chief
ANNE BUIE
Managing Editor
JASON SHARPE
Visual Managing Editor
KELLI STRAKA News Editor
MICHAEL BRAGG A&E Editor
JAMES ASHLEY Sports Editor
ABBI PITTMAN Opinion Editor
MAGGIE COZENS Photo Editor
LIZZIE McCREARY Graphics Editor
Contact Information EDITOR-IN-CHIEF (828) 262-6149 BUSINESS OFFICE (828) 262-2157 FAX LINE (828) 262-6256 Associated Collegiate Press
Our Mission
KEVIN GRIFFIN This year’s election, like nearly all elections, is being touted as a great moment of decision between two distinct worldviews. America is being confronted with numerous problems reaching to the deepest roots of our political system. But it seems as if the seemingly critical choice over who becomes our president makes little difference to many of the most striking problems in America today. It is truly startling to think of the number of fundamentally important issues at stake in our coun-
try that are not affected by who is elected for president, or even for Congress. Four years of Obama government and yet little has been done to change the state of affairs in the foreign policy and civil liberties arenas. Obama has been undeniably hawkish as president, from upping the number of U.S. drone strikes to the well-known assassination of Osama Bin-Laden and increases in military spending. The president also signed the National Defense Authorization Act earlier this year, an act that could pave the way for the indefinite detention of U.S. citizens. His lack of action on the situation at Guantanamo Bay is similarly shameful. One could not imagine a Romney presidency bringing substantial reform in these areas, either. Even in the realm of economy
and money, an area provides the starkest differences between the candidates, the chances for significant improvement are dubious. Both of our major candidates receive large amounts of money from corporations, and corporations have time and time again made it clear they intend to influence the outcome of this election so that their powerful influence is in no way diminished. President Obama has been careful to not alienate bankers, and reports from this year indicate that Wall Street’s irresponsibility has not noticeably improved. The nature of his opponent’s relationships to these same financial institutions goes without saying. What is of critical importance here is the system in which both of these men must participate in, and which both perpetuate to great degrees. Money and powerful special in-
terests have extensive hold over the whole of our political system. Congress has been a mess for years, unwilling to compromise on important measures, and it only seems that this trend will increase in the future. All of this is not to say that identical results will be seen with both candidates. In the short term, things like the state of economy and certain domestic issues will be modified by the candidate. However, the most penetrating questions – those concerning our economic system and campaign finance, the erosion of civil liberties, and our foreign policy -- will not be answered. And neither of the two men who are now proposing to answer them is in any way fit for the job.
Griffin, a freshman journalism major from Madison, is an opinion writer.
EDITORIAL CARTOON
Smokers disregard 50-foot smoking policy around campus
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.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Capital punishment is ‘irrational’ In the United States, we entrust our social institutions to pursue and carry out justice for us. Because of this, punishments—even the harshest of them—must be rational. That is, they must be reasonable or sensible, as well as effective, unbiased, affordable and not rooted in emotion. When punishments are irrational, they must be changed. In North Carolina, our harshest punishment -- capital punishment -- is irrational. The death penalty does not satisfy our demand for vengeance or prevent murder, it is excessively costly, it is biased, and it poses a serious risk to the innocent makes it unacceptable as a state sanctioned and carried out policy. People reading this might object and demand we maintain capital punishment. But actually, as the state has moved away from being one of the nation’s leaders—in the size of our death row, the number of death sentences we hand down, and the number of executions we carry out every year—to the state that had the fastest decline in death sentences in the entire country, the murder rate has actually fallen. In fact, the year 2010 witnessed the lowest murder rate in the state’s recorded history. Interestingly, every state and every nation that has ever practiced capital punishment has had the same experience, suggesting the problems with the death penalty are intractable. How can we expect to be a global advocate for human rights when we ourselves are offenders? Matthew Robinson, professor of government and justice studies Amanda Moore, junior global studies
Andrew Cox | Editorial Cartoonist
STAFF OPINION
Ron Paul struggles to get recognized, media is to blame
MAEDCHEN BRITTON The mainstream media always hounds candidates during election season. But it seems they’re off Libertarian-turned-Republican Ron Paul’s trail. At the Republican Nation Convention this August, everyone knew who would win the nomination: the Republican’s
controversial darling, Gov. Mitt Romney. There was, however, a contender for the spot. And it seems like he’s just not being acknowledged at all. I don’t think very many people take Ron Paul seriously as a Republican candidate. His supporters were a large minority group determined to place him the ticket as a party candidate, as opposed to on the Independent ballot, which would split the conservative vote. In the primary elections, when Paul began
campaigning, crowds of thousands would flock to hear him speak. Now, he hardly makes front page. But why does the media fail to capitalize on this political underdog? Coverage on Paul has been limited, as media outlets highlight President Barack Obama and, in their eyes, his biggest threat. It’s the media’s job to act as gatekeeper, but not to this extent. Mainstream media favored Minnesota Rep. Michele Bachmann, in my opinion, as they
watched a woman try to succeed in a male-dominated political industry. But Paul was ignored for the third year straight. We can’t allow the media to dictate their election coverage like this. This is American politics we’re dealing with – not media politics. When the mainstream media got the results back from Iowa, they stated that Santorum won the most delegate, Romney came in second and Michele Bachmann sixth. Not many news outlets mentioned Paul, who actually won the most del-
egates from Iowa. Why isn’t the media paying attention to him? Maybe they’re tired of covering Paul now that he’s in his third year of running for president, but that’s really no excuse for ignoring a candidate with so much potential. The media plays a huge role in presidential campaigns and elections. Paul is being harmed every time his successes go unreported.
Britton, a freshman journalism major from Kannapolis, is an opinion writer.
STAFF OPINION
Partisanship hurts the government’s ability to be effective
MICHAEL BRAGG If there was one old saying that could describe the presidency of the United States, it would be “damned if you do, damned if you don’t.” This phrase applies to former and future presidents, as well as President Barack Obama, whenever a stance is made on an issue. Nobody is happy with the job the president does. This isn’t just
based on whether or not people agree with the president’s decisions – their party’s ideology also plays a huge role. The Republicans will deny any issue President Obama brings to the floor just as the Democrats opposed anything that came out of President George W. Bush’s mouth. That’s textbook partisanship, folks. And partisanship is one of the most noticeable, detrimental and juvenile things in Congress. It delays important issues and rejects others, plaguing the success of America and its people. When President Obama took office in 2008, he asked the Republicans in Congress to work to-
gether with him, and they more or less denied him. Four years later, both parties are pitted against each other at rallies and in advertisements. But how bad is it in comparison to the rest of American history? California Gov. Jerry Brown said in an interview that “this country is more divided now than at any time since the Civil War,” according to the CNN blog Cafferty File. He might be right, and America is on to this. The connection between Congress’ partisan divide and their dismal approval rating of 10 percent – the lowest in 38 years, reports the Huffington Post – is too clear to ignore. When you draw a line right down the middle, it’s not the Re-
publicans who lose on healthcare reform or the Democrats who can’t have their social program funding -- it’s the people who live in America. The decisions they make against each other affect us, whether the consequences they overlook are good or bad for their constituency. Maybe Gov. Romney’s economic plan could work, or maybe President Obama has the right idea with the Affordable Care Act. But as long as there is a divide in Congress based on partisan and party rhetoric, nothing is going to change. Bragg, a junior journalism and public relations major from Lillington, is the A&E editor.
The Appalachian
Opinion
| TheAppalachianOnline.com
September 13, 2012 |
POINT / COUNTER-POINT
STAFF OPINION
Students debate presidential economic policies The following is part of a Point / Counter-point opinion series, which highlights important issues and platform points for both candidates in the upcoming election.
Point: President Obama’s new economic strategy fails to impress
ANNE BUIE I applied for my first credit card over the summer. I wanted to establish credit and feel prepared for emergencies. When my card came in the mail, it came with more than just instructions and helpful tidbits for saving money. It came with an underlying message: don’t spend more than you make. As a 19-year-old, it’s a good time for me to learn this message. And as a 51-year-old, it’s time President Obama learn this message too. According to barackobama.com, Obama supports “[tax] reform that cuts corporate tax rates, ...rewards investment in America to make our businesses and workers more competitive in a global economy.” Obama’s proposed Buffett Rule is “asking millionaires and billionaires to do their fair share,” according to his website. But haven’t they already done their fair share? They invest in Americaas in their day to day lives. So, why would Obama think it’s okay to continue taxing them – simply because they have more
money than others? Why would people aspire to become millionaires and billionaires if they know Obama won’t reward them for their work? He’ll just punish them through taxes. And furthermore, how could Obama expect us to be “more competitive” in a global economy if we can’t even compete amongst our fellow Americans? On mittromney.com, Romney lists his plans to reduce spending. Cutting Title X family planning funding or repealing Obamacare are just a few mentioned. But on Obama’s official website, there’s no list. Instead, Obama mentions his plans to continue spending money America simply does not have, while taxing the millionaires and billionaires to sustain his spending problem. Before long, these millionaires and billionaires are going to run out of money, and will be classified as the middle class. And then who will Obama tax? The middle class. See, my credit card is in my name. It’s my responsibility. I don’t have anyone to bail me out. Obama’s increased dependence on the upper class will be not only his undoing, but the country’s. For someone who says he wants to help the middle class, you’d expect him to worry a little more about the ramifications of his current actions. Buie, a sophomore political science major from Charlotte, is the managing editor.
Counter-point: Obama totes a mildly impressive economic record
MICHAEL BRAGG Imagine you’ve had a mechanic for the last eight years who has created more problems, than they’d fixed. You’re finally fed up, and you’re ready to switch mechanics. You have two choices. Your old mechanic, or a new guy on the block, who has great ideas for making your car better than ever. He says in four days, it’ll be done. Four days later, the car isn’t perfect but it runs. But the mechanic says he can continue fixing the car - if you just give him more time. Obviously, I’m not here to talk mechanics. I’m here to talk about President Obama and why we should elect him instead of Gov. Romney. Like the mechanic, Obama received an economy in a recession, being drained by two ongoing wars and a national debt rising daily. It’s not the easiest task. Many are quick to blame the president, but they overlook his successes. According to The Economist, the $800 billion stimulus spending created or saved 3.4 million
jobs. “Politifact” claimed true that under Obama, the United States gained “half a million manufacturing jobs.” Many Americans have seen President Obama depicted as a wasteful spender, spending more and putting this country in debt more than any president. But “Market Watch” said Obama had the lowest rate of spending in 60 years at 1.4 percent annually. However, The Washington Post recalculated the numbers and found that the rate was 5.2 percent while the Associated Press reported three percent, compared to President Bush’s “final full fiscal year in office, ending Sept. 30, 2008, it rose to 20.8 percent,” according to The New York Times. Today, we are not in a recession and General Motors is still alive and well. According to politifact.com, “[United Auto Workers] president Bob King says the auto industry has gained 250,000 jobs since mid2009.” This claim came up true. Now we have a choice. Do we return the presidency - our car - to President Obama - the new mechanic that has gotten things running better than they have been - or do we give it over to Gov. Romney - who is too much like the old mechanic we were eager to get away from?
Crimmins, a freshman from Chapel Hill, is an opinion writer.
McCreary, a sophomore graphic design major from Huntersville, is the graphics editor.
Allison Langewisch | Editorial Cartoonist
LETTER
Thank you from Appalachian State football captains
On behalf of the Appalachian football program’s players and coaches, we’d like to offer our most sincere thanks to you for your support during Saturday night’s win over Montana at The Rock. You have no idea how much of a boost it is for us as players to
to us. We have another big game this Saturday when we open Southern Conference play against The Citadel — a team that just beat preseason SoCon favorite and No. 3-ranked Georgia Southern and is now nationally ranked for the first time in four years. We need App Nation to bring the energy again as we try to take the first step in
bringing back the SoCon title to where it belongs — right here in Boone! Thanks again for the support! Can’t wait to see you at The Rock on Saturday! Sincerely, 2012 Appalachian State Football Captains
STAFF OPINION
Extracurriculars in college can designate your future
ALLISON CRIMMINS Gone are the days when you could have your cake and eat it too. In college, it seems there just aren’t enough hours in the day to do everything you love.
College is the real world. We do dishes, laundry and figure out how to fix problems ourselves instead of asking an adult for help. We are the adults. And though we’re given a lot more opportunities in college, we are forced to choose the things we’re really passionate about. In high school, being busy always made life a little crazy, but I was always happy doing it all because
I could do it all. I could be an editor on the paper, do a fall theatre production and play a spring sport if I wanted to. Now, I barely have time to successfully complete my homework -- and I can’t even do that sometimes. Somehow entering the “real world” means you no longer have time to do everything you love. This is because as we move up to a higher, more difficult academic level,
extracurricular activities become harder too, and with more at stake. Everything is suddenly more serious. Everything we do has to be a step toward a successful career. The editor of the school paper could wind up at The New York Times, the actress could be a Broadway star someday or the captain of a soccer team could go pro. But how do we decide what we want to do? We’re young, after all. How can
LIZZIE McCREARY
we choose between three or four of our favorite things based on where we want to go with them? It’s impossible to do it all, but I invite you to try and change this. Make it possible again. If there is something you love to do, find a way. Not everything we do has to carry weight in our professional futures.
Bragg, a junior journalism and public relations major from Lillington, is a senior arts and entertainment reporter.
Chicago teachers strike while students celebrate unexpected break
see the student section packed when we take the field for pregame warmups, to feel the stadium rocking from your noise during the game and to celebrate with you after a big win. Quite simply, the energy that you provide as the heart and soul of App Nation gives us the best home-field advantage in all of college football and we can’t express enough how much it means
AsUBus app needs further improvement
Recently, the AsUBus iOS app was launched. It’s already grossed over 500 downloads on iTunes. I definitely appreciate the strides sophomore Brian Clee made when he created this app and respect the amount of time put in, but I am not as enamored as my peers. Maybe I’m bitter because I wasn’t able to launch my own iPhone app for the AppalCART that I had already designed but not coded. But in reality, I think Clee could have done so much more. The design itself is basic and to the point, and has no unique design element. I would have expected to see unique interfaces and different fonts. Instead, the app consists of basic buttons and fancier maps I can already see on the website. The information was already on the website. It is now just in a new format, easier to access in a hurry. But the times are wrong anyway – the bus is rarely on time. I like the information being in a central location – but I would have wanted to see enhanced features on this app. Adding a global positioning system on the app would have been expensive – I get it. But there are cheaper options – crowdsourcing being the main one. Using a “check in” system, where users would just press a button on the screen saying they were getting on or off a certain bus, would create a better sense of the location of the bus. But would people actually use this system? I believe they would. If they were already looking at the app, it would take them an extra second to press a “check in” button. Some might check in solely for the benefit of all others waiting for the same route. I believe AppalCART would greatly benefit from an enhanced version of this app. They would receive fewer angry phone calls from upset students and town residents wondering when the bus will arrive at their stop. Furthermore, a messaging forum for the busses would have been beneficial. It would have allowed people to send out notifications of if the bus was running late, or if a sketchy person was on the bus. People using the app would also be able to post a comment on a route’s forum about a lost backpack, class project or Nalgene. This app was a move to get Boone out of the stone age electronically, however it appeared to be met with resistance from staff members of the AppalCART. Finance Officer for AppalCART Michael Norwood said “no decision has been made” to join with app. Clee said he was told by an AppalCART employee, they were not willing to fund the GPS for the app. Why not? I’ve listed my hesitations with the app, but I also believe with the proper budget, this app could be so much more. With finances provided by the AppalCART, Clee could expand upon his app. But since those funds don’t seem to be coming his way anytime soon, Clee could charge the basic 99 cents to help fund the GPS for the busses. He might also be able to start a collection from friends and family to help subsidize the cost of the app. I believe this app is a starting point for a tool that could be used for future Appalachian students, and it’s a shame finances might be what stands in its way .
EDITORIAL CARTOON
Fellow Appalachian State Students,
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The Appalachian
| September 13, 2012
| TheAppalachianOnline.com
Freshman receiver Malachi Jones is just Matchup: carryin’ on an ole’ family tradition vs.
by ETHAN JOYCE
The Citadel vs. Appalachian State September 15, 2012 | 3:30 p.m. Kidd Brewer Stadium Boone, N.C. by JORDAN DAVIS
Intern Sports Reporter
The Mountaineers will host a nationally ranked opponent for the second straight week when the No. 23 Citadel Bulldogs comes to Boone. App looked impressive Saturday defeating Montana 35-27, but the Apps still face another tough test this week in their conference opener. After pulling an upset over Georgia Southern on a late field goal last week, the Bulldogs find themselves ranked in the FCS coach’s poll and the media poll at No. 23 for the first time since 2008. To pull out another win, the Bulldogs will need to rely on their defensive line and specials teams. The Mountaineers have dominated this series in recent years. App has won 18 of the last 19 meetings, and eight straight according to goasu.com. The game will feature two distinct types of offense. The Mountaineers like to spread the field and pass the ball and The Citadel’s specialize in the triple-option running game. The option is predicated confusing defenses with the threat of any player rushing the ball at any time. The Bulldogs will utilize play-action fakes to keep ASU defenders guessing who will run the ball. How ASU can win To avoid the upset, ASU’s offense will need to continue its consistency for this game. But the fate of the game won’t rest solely on the offense - the main key for the game is on defense. The Mountaineers will have to play sound, disciplined defense to shut down the option. The Mountaineers gave up 93 yards on the ground and 145 yard receiving to Montana’s running back, Dan Moore, and had trouble containing their mobile quarterback Trent McKinney. The Bulldogs have a diverse rushing attack and ASU will need to account for all the capable runners in the Citadel’s backfield, especially quarterback Ben Dupree, the leading rusher on the team. However, the passing game has only amassed 164 yards though the first two games, so an early ASU lead could put them up for good. How The Citadel can win When the triple option is working effectively, it can be exciting football to watch and difficult for defenses to defend. If The Citadel can’t execute in the run game they have little chance of winning this game. They will also need to make some timely plays in the passing game to keep the ASU defense honest. The team completed only five passes in their win last week, but one went for a 29 yard touchdown. On defense the Bulldogs have to force some turnovers and keep this a close game into the fourth quarter to give the offense a chance to pull off another improbable win. The Bottom Line The Mountaineers will be the favored team in this match up, but the Bulldogs proved last week that any team can win on Saturday. It would be quite a feat if they could upset top 10 teams in back to back weeks.
F
Intern Sports Reporter
or freshman wide receiver Malachi Jones, playing football is a long-established family tradition. His father, the late Andre Jones, was a former linebacker at Notre Dame and played professionally for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the CFL for Winnipeg Blue Bombers. His brother, T.J., is a junior wide receiver at Notre Dame. His uncle, Phillip Daniels, was a 14-year NFL veteran who played for the Washington Redskins, Chicago Bears and Seattle Seahawks and his godfather is former Notre Dame wide receiver and Heisman runner-up Raghib “Rocket” Ishmail. “It is a little pressure,” Jones said. “My dad playing at Notre Dame and my older brother playing there as well. My brother and my dad have been very successful at Notre Dame and I didn’t want to be that one person you look back on and say ‘well, he wasn’t so successful’, so there is pressure in a sense.” But Jones has already shown what he’s capable of with nine receptions and 103 receiving yards. “My brother and Jones said his my dad have collegiate debut at been very sucthe East Carolina cessful at Notre game was a great experience. He Dame... there said he “blessed is pressure in a for it to come sense.” sooner than most Malachi Jones, expected.” Wide Receiver “A lot of things were going through my head,” Jones said. “I wish my father was able to physically see it. But overall, it was a good game. I snagged five catches, so it was a good start for my college career.” Head Coach Jerry Moore said he is impressed with Jones, on and off the field. “We have two words here that we put a
Jason Sharpe | The Appalachian
Amy Birner | The Appalachian
Freshman wide receiver Malachi Jones races down the field with the ball during Appalachian’s game against ECU (left). Freshman wide receiver Malachi Jones stands with coach Jerry Moore at the start of the season (above). Freshman wide receiver Malachi Jones races down the field during Appalachian's game against Montana (below).
Maggie Cozens | The Appalachian
lot of credence in, and those are trust and respect,” Moore said. “And he is right at the top of the list of both of them.” Coach Moore said he also believes that
the best is yet to come. “I think he will get better and better every game,” Moore said. “He is one of those guys who just improves all the time.”
Peacock inspired by quarterbacks Quick, Jackson by JAMES ASHLEY
Matt Cline. All that was a learning experience for me and the only way I When Andrew Pea- got here to where I’m at cock came to college, he today.” A high school quarwas a full-bred quarterback. He amassed nearly terback, Peacock needed 3,000 yards of total of- good receivers to teach fense as quarterback him the wide receiver his senior year of high position, and he is very humbled by school acit. cording to “The goasu.com. “I got to play stuff they Peacock beside Brian taught me, redshirted work in 2009 and Quick, which was the appeared in a huge honor for ethic, the technique, 12 games in me and taught ever ything 2010. Last me a lot.” they taught season, he Andrew Peacock, me was just ranked secWide Receiver a huge honond behind or,” Peacock the team said. “That’s leader Brithe biggest an Quick with 48 catches and 564 thing I picked up from yards. Playing alongside last year and the year beQuick was a cherished fore that.” Peacock said his idol opportunity for Peais Quick because in adcock. “I got to play beside dition to teaching him Brian Quick, which was about the position of a huge honor for me and wide receiver, he taught taught me a lot, “ Pea- him about the true cock said. “Even the year meaning of a team and before that, I played be- about life. “My biggest help, my side CoCo Hillary and Sports Editor
Maggie Cozens | The Appalachian
Appalachian’s top returning receiver, junior Andrew Peacock, catches a pass during A.S.U.’s game against Montana. biggest idol is definitely Brian Quick,” Peacock said. “ He taught us the game, taught us more about receiver, taught us more about life in general. It was just a family here and we take that and we use that on the freshmen now. It’s just a big family here. [Quick] is definitely the person I follow.” But Peacock’s relationships with the quarterbacks don’t end there.
Jamal Jackson, starting quarterback said he has been working with Peacock since 2009. “We were both down on the scout team my freshman year and we’ve been building our chemistry for a long time now,” Jackson said. “We got the chance to be on the field together towards the middle of the season and I believe that the sky is the limit.” In the two games
FCS Media Poll
PIGSKIN PICK’EM Weekend Matchups The Citadel vs. Appalachian State Western Carolina vs. Wofford #20 Notre Dame vs. #10 Michigan State #18 Florida vs. #23 Tennessee North Carolina vs. #19 Louisville
this season, Peacock leads the team with 10 catches, 134 yards and a touchdown, according to goasu.com. Peacock said he has set high expectations for the team to get back to winning the championship again. “Last year we didn’t get it and that a huge, huge chip on our shoulder,” he said. “We really feel like we could bring that tradition back.”
Week 3
Jason Sharpe
Visual Managing Editor
The Appalachian (5-5)
Eric Barnes
Lauren Brigman
Whitney Howard
SGA (7-3)
WASU (8-2)
A.P.P.S. (8-2)
Vice-President
Station Manager
President
Bryan Terry
Kenneth Peacock
Greek Life (6-4)
Appalachian State (8-2)
IFC President
Chancellor
1. North Dakota State 2. Sam Houston State 3. Montana State 4. Old Dominion 5. James Madison 6. Northern Iowa 7. Appalachian State* 8. Youngstown State 9. Wofford* 10. Georgia Southern* 11. Eastern Washington 12. Montana 13. Lehigh 14. Delaware 15. Towson 16. Stony Brook 17. Illinois State 18. New Hampshire 19. McNeese State 20. Central Arkansas 21. Maine 22. Norfolk State 23. The Citadel* 24. Harvard 25. Eastern Kentucky *SoCon Member
Source: soconsports.com