Thursday, February 21 by The Appalachian

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THE APPALACHIAN Thursday, February 21, 2013

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Vol. 87, No. 33

Fifteenth Annual Polar Plunge for the Special Olympics led by ASU Police for 13th year by KRISTA LOOMER Intern News Reporter

aw enforcement agencies in Watauga County have raised money for the Special Olympics athletes through the annual Polar Plunge at Duck Pond since 2000. With the continued help of ASU Police Chief Gunther Doerr, the Polar Plunge has become a staple in the Appalachian community. “In 2000 we took it over to sponsor it as a department and then brought in Boone Police Department and the sheriff ’s office,” Doerr said. “It really goes back to the Special Olympics; law enforcement has been involved with the Special Olympics probably since the [19]70s or [19]80s.” Doerr said that the state-run philanthropy event, the Torch Run, did not raise as much money for the local community as he would have liked. But, since the expenses for the Polar Plunge are very minimal because of donations from local businesses, almost 100 percent of the proceeds go directly to the Watauga County Special Olympic athletes. “Gunther Doerr has spear-

Along with the risk of cuts headed the fundraiser for the past 15 years,” said Keron Poteat, and bruises, hypothermia could the Special Olympics coordina- arise because of the water temperature. tor for Watauga County. “In 15 years, we haven’t had The Polar Plunge allows the Special Olympics to raise any serious injuries,” Doerr said. “For the enough most part, funds for we have been the athletes “It really goes back to the pretty lucky. to operate Special Olympics; law enThe water throughout forcement has been involved temperature the entire has been year. with the Special Olympics D o e r r probably since the [19]70s or around 33 to 34 degrees.” said that in [19]80s.” Heaters preparation and tents are for the PoPolice Chief Gunther Doerr on scene for lar Plunge, the plungers the ASU to get warm Police Deimmediately partment creates publicity for the event, after they exit the freezing water. In all of his years of coordinatmaintains the dock at Duck Pond and coordinates with ing the Polar Plunge, Doerr said medics to ensure the safety of that the year “Road Rules” MTV came and participated was the the plungers. For the safety of those par- most memorable. “We had 320 plungers and ticipating in the plunge, they are required to wear wristbands to raised $13,904,” Doerr said. indicate who signed the liability “That’s the most money raised and the most plungers we have waiver. “We have officers going had. It was huge.” Doerr said he has taken the around making sure everyone is safe...If somebody is exhibiting plunge at least eight times. “I always tell people at least some kind of issues the officers won’t let them plunge,” Doerr once in your four years at App, you should do it.” said.

Polar Plunge: A charitable App State tradition for 15 years

Marie Freeman | Courtesy Photo

Appalachian State University Police Chief Gunther Doerr (Left) and Former Boone Police Chief Bill Post (Right) prepare to take an icy dip into Duck Pond for the 2004 Polar Plunge. Law enforcement agencies in Watauga County have raised money for Special Olympics athletes through the annual Polar Plunge at Duck Pond since 2000. Post has since retired and now teaches in the criminal justice department.

File Photo | The Appalachian

On average, the Polar Plunge raises approximately $8,000 for the Special Olympics. MTV show ‘Road Rules’ featured the Polar Plunge in 2002

Watauga County has Special Olympics is a program of the approximately 150 Spe- Watauga County Parks & Recreation cial Olympic particiDepartment, and provides year-round pants ages 8 and up. sports training, competition and social activities for more than 37,000 children The average and adults with intellectual disabilities temperature of the in communities throughout the state water is between Source: Michael Meety and community.appstate.edu 33-34 degrees.

Appalachian students compete for spot on European decathlon team by MICHELLE PIERCE Intern News Reporter

After Appalachian State University was invited as one of the three American universities to attend Europe’s Solar Decathlon 2014, competition has stirred among the students

for their ideas to be used in the university’s studentbuilt, solar-powered and multi-family homestead. The final project will be taken to the Solar Decathlon showcase in Versailles, France where assistant professors Jamie Russell and Jason Miller will be leading

the students participating. “We will need the students who can put the planned design together, students who can operate the building and students

see Decathlon, pg 2

SGA passes new bills, hosts ombudsman by JOSHUA FARMER News Editor

Appalachian State University’s Student Governments Association senate hosted Ombudsman James Barnes and passed two bills Tuesday evening. Barnes was on-hand to introduce the idea of an ombudsman, who acts as a mediator to help find solutions to problems for

campus and to SGA. “The essence of the idea is confidentiality,” Barnes said. “What you say will never be repeated to anyone. ” Barnes indicated that he has taken the job with the understanding that it is on an interim basis. “I will try to put the office together and get it working,” Barnes said. “That should take about

two years.” Barnes said a website for the office of the ombudsman is currently under construction. The bills regarded the Night Assistants, formerly known as Night Stars, and Appalachian State University’s radio station,

see SGA, pg 3

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News

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The Appalachian

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Decathlon

Continued from pg 1

Michelle Pierce | The Appalachian

Joey Johnson | The Appalachian

(Above and bottom right) Solar Decathlon modules at the offcampus headquarters. (Below) Senior building science major Tony Washington works on his seventh concept model in a Katherine Harper lab. (Right) Models on display. Appalachian State University was one of the three American universities to be chosen for the 2014 Solar Decathlon in Versailles, France.

Michelle Pierce | The Appalachian

Joey Johnson | The Appalachian

who can act as tour guides,” Russell said. Right now, the program has only raised enough money for the travel of 20 students, who will be known as solar decathletes, Russell said. Senior Audrey Burton is currently working on her board layouts for her own interpretation of an energy-efficient house for the competition, along with 26 other building science majors at Appalachian. These students spend approximately 30 hours a week, sometimes pulling all-nighters, in the Katherine Harper Hall studio to work on their design. “Katherine Harper is pretty much our second home,” said Burton, a building science and appropriate technology major. Senior building science major Tony Washington is working on his seventh concept model. “It’s a tweaking process and it’s all about keeping up with the main goals of the project,” Washington said. A student can be a decathlete up to six months after they graduate if they chose, Burton said. The 26 students will show their conceptual designs Friday, Feb. 22 in Katherine Harper. Faculty members and local corporations who have sponsored the Solar Decathlon in the past, such as Mountain Television Network, will review the small public event. “They understand it’s an ideas competition, meaning we’ll be pulling ideas from their work and synthesize them for the decathlon,” Miller said. The final evaluation of the students’ models will occur later in the semester by a steering committee composed of several university faculty members including both Russell and Miller. “The competition is what keeps us motivated, but we’re all still friends,” Burton said.

The Appalachian

News

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SGA

Continued from pg 1 WASU. Cone Residence Hall representative Nick Smith proposed a bill, which would allow Night Assistants to gain priority registration and opt out of work on nights before they take a final exam. Smith said he didn’t think it was fair for Night Assistants to be forced to register for early classes in order to graduate on time when they work until 3:30 a.m. The two major concerns focused on the fear that people might abuse this opportunity and that other groups on campus may want this benefit. The concern was that people would apply and be accepted to the Night Assistant program, register early, then drop out, leaving the service understaffed and unable to provide the benefit. Others in the senate worried that this would open a “Pandora’s Box,” and other groups, like Resident Assistants, would be upset that they were originally overlooked for the benefit and lobby for it. The bill went through two rounds of debate before passing unanimously. East Residence Hall representative Chris Maples presented the bill explaining that once WASU’s current contract expires, they will sign a new one, which will allow them to stream the station through the speakers in all of Appalachian’s dining facilities. They will also renew this contract at its expiration continually. Maples said that 89.4 percent of students polled were found to be in support of the bill. The bill passed unanimously.

Town Council passes new housing standards by JOSHUA FARMER News Editor

by CHELSEY FISHER Managing Editor

The Boone Town Council approved the work-force housing standards 4-1 Tuesday after adding an amendment to allowing mixed-use buildings in the business district. These proposals will take effect immediately and the mixed-used buildings would include businesses on the first floor and residential property on subsequent floors, said town council member Andy Ball. The standards will include requiring the master bedroom to be 25 percent larger than other bedrooms, a required amount of storage and allowing no more than two unrelated occupants to live in the residence. “So if you build a mixed used project, meaning commercial and residential together, then you can pretty much do whatever style of apartments or townhomes, or any kind of housing you want,” said Ball, who voted for the standards. Pam Williamson, a member of the Affordable Housing Task Force, which made the recommendations for an ordinance to change building codes, said that this is not a ploy to prevent the building of “quad-style,” or student housing. “The job of the task force was to come up with a way to increase the amount of workforcestyle housing,” Williamson said. Williamson said that the lack of family hous-

ing has hindered Boone’s ability to attract workers. Williamson also said there is currently a five percent over supply of quad-style housing, but Ball said there is no way to determine an exact number until the town’s housing study is released this April. Town council and task force member Lynn Mason, who voted for the standards, said these requirements are meant to increase diversity in housing. “Unfortunately, the reality is that there is a section of our community that doesn’t have a viable housing option,” Mason said. There has been a demand for workforce housing for 10 years, but other than two projects, no one has built workforce housing, Mason said during the meeting. Allen Scherlan, a member of Town Council and the only person to vote against the standards, said that the town council should wait until the housing study is released in April to determine new housing standards. “Everyone supports affordable housing, but there are still problems,” Scherlan said. The workforce housing standards were proposed last month. The town council held a public hearing Feb. 4. “I’m excited about the proposal and what this will do for the community,” Ball said. “I hope we can look back in 10 years and it has created more diversity of housing stock for those in the working force community in this town.”

February 21, 2013 |

CRIMELOG

Police reports from Appalachian State University’s campus Feb. 14 3:19 p.m. | Overdose Hoey Hall Someone overdosed in Hoey Residence Hall.

Feb. 16 11:53 p.m. | DWI Rivers Street An arrest was made. The case is closed.

Feb. 15 12:33 a.m. | Larceny of Bicycle Belk Library A bicycle was reported stolen. The case has been closed due to exhausted leads.

Feb. 16 11:50 a.m. | Simple Physical Assault Gardner Hall An arrest was made by another agency. The case has been closed.

Feb. 15 2:00 p.m. | Disorderly Conduct College Street Parking Deck The victim refused to cooperate with police. The case has been closed. Feb. 15 6:50 a.m. | Vandalism Broyhill Music Center Criminal damage to property was reported. The case has been closed due to exhausted leads.

Feb. 17 1:18 a.m. | Possession of Marijuana Rivers Street An arrest was made. The case has been closed. Feb. 17 2:05 a.m. | DWI Rivers Street An arrest was made. The case has been closed.

Feb. 18 12:55 a.m. | Possession of Marijuana Horn in the West Parking Lot An arrest was made. The case has been closed. Feb. 19 11:45 p.m. | Property Damage Academy Street Prosecution was denied. The case has been closed. Feb. 19 2:00 a.m. | Underage Consumption of Alcohol Cannon Hall An arrest was made. The case has been closed.

Source: ASU Police

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Houses for 1, 2, 3, or 4 students 12-month leases starting Aug. 2013 www.BooneRentalHouses.com (828) 773-7688 office@boonerentalhouses.com

Ready for a Real House?

Efficiencies, One, Two, and Three Bedroom Apartments, Houses, and Duplexes

A&E

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Junior art major creates symbolic pottery Review: by LOVEY COOPER Senior A&E Reporter

Editor’s Note: The following is the third part of a three-part series on students in Art Expo 2013.

oone resident and junior Laurie Kirkpatrick has loved art for as long as she can remember, but only recently discovered her favorite medium: clay. The studio art major’s pitfired ceramic piece “Symbiosis no. 2” was picked by a jury to be featured in the 2013 Art Expo, an annual exhibition of selected student artists’ work. This is Kirkpatrick’s first time showing at the Expo. The piece features a surface of deep blacks, pinks and whites, which are created by the pit firing process. The title of the piece refers to the biological term mutualistic symbiosis, meaning two living organisms that cannot live without each other. “I chose to represent this through the relationship between the bark beetle and a type of tree fungus,” Kirkpatrick said. “The bark beetle carves incredibly intricate patterns into the tree trunk while eating the fungus from it.” The common theme of her work that is explored through symbiosis was inspired by the strong relationship she shares with her mother. “It is an incredibly strong relationship that can hardly be expressed through anything but a biological need – which is why I chose the phenom-

enon of symbiosis,” she said. Kirkpatrick said two wonderful and creative parents raised her. Her father owns a construction business with the slogan, “Building art you can live in,” and her mother is a full-time artist. Born and raised in Boone, Kirkpatrick has been involved in and loved art for as long as she can remember. “I have always been encouraged to pursue what I love to do and that the rest will follow suit,” Kirkpatrick said. At Watauga High School, she was encouraged to take classes relevant to her interests. “Art was all I wanted to do and all I wanted to learn about,” Kirkpatrick said. Her artwork manifested itself through mostly two-dimensional paintings and drawings until she found her calling for clay in a throwing class at Appalachian State last summer. “I am so fortunate to have gone to a liberal arts college, because here I have had the opportunity to explore topics that I love, and realize that I love learning about topics such as sustainable development and biology, as well as art,” Kirkpatrick said. The featured piece is similar to her recent work, although since its creation she has been working in porcelain, improving her pottery throwing skills and exploring functional works. “I am working intuitively and I trust that themes will develop as I go along,” Kirkpatrick said. After graduation, Kirkpatrick hopes to continue her education

My Bloody Valentine’s third album is a huge success by COLIN MOORE A&E Reporter

Editor’s Note: The following represents the opinions of the author.

Laurie Kirkpatrick | Courtesy Photo

Junior studio art major Laurie Kirkpatrick’s piece ‘Symbiosis no. 2’ is on display at Art Expo 2013 until March 16 in the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts. The piece is inspired by mutualistic symbiosis, a term that refers to two organisms that cannot live without each other.

or become a full-time artist. The exhibit is on view until March 16 in the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts. Throughout the month of February, the public may vote on their personal favorite piece and

the Plemmons Student Union Art Committee will purchase the winners’ pieces for display in the Turchin. The public reception and awards ceremony for selected artists takes place Friday, March 1.

Jonas Sees in Color is ‘ready for a good time’ at Appalachian State ative experience. We really pushed ourselves to experiment with new ideas and techniques the entire time. It kept everything really fresh and exciting for us. We spent the last two years writing a new full-length album and then tracking it on 2-inch reel-to-reel tape. It was a long, involved process, but toward the end of the recording we had another burst of creativity. That’s when we started working on ‘SOUL FOOD.’”

Joey Kirkman | Courtesy Photo

The band Jonas Sees in Color will play Legends Thursday. Doors open at 9 p.m.

by COLIN MOORE A&E Reporter

The Greensboro-based rock band Jonas Sees in Color is no stranger to Appalachian State and are returning to Legends on Thursday. The Appalachian got a chance to chat with lead singer Ryan Downing

about the band’s upcoming performance and plans for this year. The Appalachian: How do you like working with Legends and App State? Ryan Downing: “We love working with [them]. We usually do our shows through APPS, and they are just the nicest, cool-

est people ever. Boone is just packed full of awesome people, so it’s always a good time when we come to party.” TA: You guys released a new EP last year. What was it like recording that? RD: “Recording the ‘SOUL FOOD’ EP was an incredible, fun, cre-

TA: The “SOUL FOOD” EP is available for free download on your website, and you’ve funded a project on Kickstarter before. Is your fan base typically dedicated and generous? RD: “We decided to give the EP away to our fans as a way of saying ‘Thank you.’ We really have the most amazing fans in the world and they’ve stuck by our side through thick and thin while waiting to finish the full-length.” TA: What’s a typical show of yours like? Do you have anything special

planned for the show at Legends? RD: “We have something very special planned for Legends. We’re ready to have some fun with our App friends. I know it’s going to be a really fun show, and we’re ready to rock so hard our faces fall off.” TA: Do you have any other plans for touring or releasing new material this year? RD: “We’ll be doing some more touring this month, then coming home to prepare the release of our new album in April. After that, we’ll be ready for a crazy summer on Warped Tour; 2013 is gonna be a great year. I can smell the crazy in the air… and I like it.” Appalachian Popular Programming Society’s Clubs Shows Council is holding the event. Doors open at 9 p.m. Thursday at Legends. Tickets are $4 in advance for students and $6 at the door. This event is BYOB with proper identification.

MSA students dance for charity through App Ki Bhangra by EMMA SPECKMAN Senior A&E Reporter

Members of the App Ki Bhangra dance team traveled to Wake Forest University last weekend to show off their skills at the World Cultural Dance Off. The competition collected money for a charity that helps send children in Kabul, Afghanistan, to school. The group raised more than $1,300. There were 10 dance groups competing this year, seven of which were from Wake Forest. Although a group from Wake Forest won this year, in 2010, the year that the club formed, App Ki won the competition. “I feel that ASU had the biggest fan base there,” said Ariel Nicastro, a member of the group. “We had a ton of support.” The Bhangra dance group is a subgroup of the Muslim Student Association, although there are a few members who found out about it other ways, Nicastro said.

“You have to tryout to be on the team, and when you are on it you are committed to a few competitions and different celebrations that App Ki dances at,” she said. This includes a commitment to perform at the Diversity Celebration in April, Nicastro said. Bhangra originated in Punjab as a folk dance to celebrate the beginning of the harvest season. The dance style is now regaining popularity worldwide and is being performed and taught at many universities. App Ki was formed in 2010 by some of the women in MSA. “Ambi Khan and I choreographed several performances for on-campus events when we were first starting out,” said Puja Gosai, a member of App Ki Bhangra. Gosai said her interest in Bhangra began in her family, as a way to bond with her three sisters. “Before App Ki Bhangra began, my sisters and I would perform at family functions, just for fun and

Ariel Nicastro | Courtesy Photo

The App Ki Bhangra dance team after their competition at Wake Forest University last weekend.

entertainment,” she said. “When I realized that there are people on campus who shared similar cultures with me, and as I met people who showed an interest in learning to Bhangra, we decided to create and become a team.” Despite not winning, the com-

petition at Wake Forest was still an event to remember for some of the members. “It was a night filled with cultural dances from different parts of the world, and united all of the attendees by showing that anyone can dance,” Gosai said.

The follow-up to My Bloody Valentine’s seminal 1990’s masterpiece “Loveless” is something of a lost album. To say that the release of “MBV” was anticipated would be a massive understatement. Indeed, it would be more accurate to say that fans “anticipated” that it would never be released. And here it is, 22 years later. For the uninitiated – those who haven’t yet fallen under “Loveless’” spell – it may seem like music critics are making a huge fuss over something anticlimactic. While that may or may not be missing the point, we can all rest assured because “MBV” is a brilliant album. It’s not “Loveless,” nor is it “Loveless 2,” but in a way this album’s absurd delay stems from a real, serious desire to make music that isn’t tied to expectations. My Bloody Valentine’s sound is hard to describe, but generally involves hazy waves of guitar noise as a highly textural backdrop for indecipherable androgynous vocals. Their sound is attractive because it’s timeless and endlessly interpretable, and “MBV” is no different. Opener “She Found Now” drops into the speakers as though 22 years haven’t passed; the song immediately cuts the listener off from any expectation and immerses them in a ballad a la “Loveless’” “Sometimes,” complete with a crust of guitar fuzz. “Only Tomorrow” is where the band kicks things up a notch. Here, vocalist Bilinda Butcher delivers a siren-like vocal over a funky, distorted backdrop that builds to a veritable rush of sound. “Who Sees You” follows suit, another six-minute slab of slow burning chords and screaming guitar riffs. Once the ambient organbased interlude “Is This and Yes” is over, the album gets restless, and it’s clear that the band wants to escape from their own expectations. Where the first section of “MBV” is a thrilling reconstitution of the band’s former strengths, the latter section stakes out uncharted territory. The turning point is “In Another Way,” driven by an insistent jungle rhythm, possibly leftover from the band’s alleged experiments with the genre post-“Loveless.” “In Another Way” is a massive song that manages to incorporate bagpipes and icy synths without losing a blissed-out, spacious vibe. The band closes “MBV” with further experimentation in “Wonder 2,” which sounds something like a helicopter crash turned into a pop song. The experimenting comes off as genuine and exciting. While the latter portion of “MBV” takes some time to grow on the listener, this music is too addictive to not return to. “MBV” is a welcome reminder that music need not be tied to a specific time or place, let alone genre. It’s an excellent listen that should stand the test of time; possibly even 22 years.

Rating:

4 out of 4 stars

OPINION

The Appalachian

The Appalachian | TheAppalachianOnline.com February 21, 2013 |

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THE APPALACHIAN Your student newspaper since 1934

STAFF OPINION

N.C. lawmakers should oppose forced annexation

MICHAEL BRAGG Editor-in-Chief

CHELSEY FISHER Managing Editor

ABBI PITTMAN Copy Editor

JOSHUA FARMER News Editor

R. SCOTT MORRIS A&E Editor

KEVIN GRIFFIN Opinion Editor

ANDREW CLAUSEN Sports Editor

PAUL HECKERT Photo Editor

MALIK RAHILI Graphics Editor

LIBBY DALLIS Video Editor

Contact Information EDITOR-IN-CHIEF (828) 262-6149 BUSINESS OFFICE (828) 262-2157 FAX LINE (828) 262-6256

TYLER SPAUGH North Carolina is one of just six states that permit a practice called “forced annexation.” That could soon change if some state lawmakers have their way. Forced annexation is a longstanding state policy that allows a city to annex members of the surrounding countryside with or without the approval of those being annexed. Earlier this month, 79 state representatives intro-

duced a bill to the North Carolina General Assembly that would allow the voters to decide on the issue. This bill would require a twothirds vote by the residents of the area that is being considered for annexation, but it will have to work its way through Raleigh and into the voting booth first, according to an article in the Watauga Democrat. The bill will be voted on by the state legislature and, if passed, placed on a ballot for a vote by the citizens of North Carolina in similar fashion to the May 8 Amendment One vote. Amendment One passed with almost two-thirds of the vote, and I suspect this bill would garner even greater support than that. Forced annexation is akin to

state-sanctioned robbery. Allowing cities to simply decide that any given resident is now part of their city, and therefore must pay taxes to that city and comply with their ordinances, is far from the ideals of a constitutional republic. Cities do provide some beneficial services in exchange for those tax dollars, such as garbage pickup or sewage. Whether or not the provided services are of equal value to the taxes paid, under no circumstances should a resident be forced to accept the new taxes and services without democratic process. This policy is a potential violation of the constitutionally guaranteed freedom of assembly, which is protected by the First Amendment. Forcing someone to be a part of a group without their

consent certainly goes against the spirit of the law, if not the letter. Someone once described a democracy, as opposed to a republic, as two wolves and a lamb voting on what to eat for dinner. We have laws to protect the vulnerable from the powerful. Forced annexation laws have allowed the cities – in this case, the wolves – to forgo giving the residents – the sheep – a vote at all. I’m not sure that I’m prepared to compare state lawmakers to our shepherds, but hopefully they’ll put this issue on the ballot and let us sheep decide for ourselves. Spaugh, a freshman accounting major from Winston-Salem, is an opinion writer.

EDITORIAL CARTOON

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.

STAFF LIST Senior Reporters

Andrew Cox | The Appalachian

STAFF OPINION

Night Assistants deserve benefits, housing must deliver

Stephanie Sansoucy Lovey Cooper Kaitlyn Thruston

Senior Photographers Olivia Wilkes Courtney Roskos

A&E Reporters Emma Speckman Colin Moore

Sports Reporters Jesse Ware Jordan Davis James Ashley

Opinion Writers Austin Mann Kent Vashaw Tyler Spaugh

Editorial Cartoonists Allison Langewisch Andrew Cox

Photographers Joey Johnson Aneisy Cardo Justin Perry Amy Kwiatkowski

AUSTIN MANN The Student Government Association passed a bill Tuesday night changing the name of Night Stars to Night Assistants, a job some students at Appalachian State have. These student employees work hard to keep us safe, but they are still de-

nied certain advantages that other student employees enjoy. While most student employees of this university can take off work the night before an important exam, the same cannot be done for Night Assistants. Night Assistants are required to work during finals week, according to the Night Assistant Manual. Night Assistants have to patrol the halls in student dormitories until 3 or 4 a.m. This is a problem when you consider that some of these Night Assistants have to take 8

Jackson Helms

Nina Mastandrea Matt Smith Nolen Nychay Chella McLelland Krista Loomer Jessica Lyons Hannah Magill Jordan Miller Jess Lyons

Multimedia Interns Matt Abele Allison Clark Bowen Jones Mark Kenna Nicole Debartolo Maggy Boutwell Andre Trowell

bill has already passed. I have to give Smith and the SGA credit. Kudos to all of you for endorsing these important measures to safeguard the rights that every Night Assistant deserves. But I have to call into question how far this bill will really go. You can pass as many bills as you want, but ultimately it is the university that governs the students, not the other way around. Mann, a freshman computer science major from Raleigh, is an opinion writer.

‘SNL’ continues to push the limits with ‘Djesus Uncrossed’

Graphic Designers Intern Reporters

who are dedicated Night Assistants deserve early registration as a reward for their long nights of ensuring safety in dorms. Another problem is that it will be very difficult to realize parts of these important changes. Because SGA has no actual power or executive authority, it is up to the university to make these changes. The final alteration to the Night Assistant program is at the discretion of University Housing, which does not have to alter the Night Assistant program, even though the

STAFF OPINION

Videographer Ben Kucmierz Erin Gallahorn

a.m. classes. SGA Senator Nick Smith proposed a bill to help alleviate some of these problems. The bill calls for Night Assistants to have priority registration and to have the option to take off nights before an important exam to study and sleep. A bill this important does not come without its detractors. Some in SGA have voiced concern that students may sign on to the Night Assistant program for the benefits, only to quit once they receive them. Regardless of this potential danger, those

MICHAEL BRAGG “Saturday Night Live” has been on the air for nearly half a century, and the cast still does their best to push boundaries and make viewers laugh uncomfortably. But “SNL” might have pushed the boundary a little too far last Saturday, based strictly on recent feedback. The show aired the sketch “Djesus Uncrossed,” a parody on the Quentin Tarantino film “Django Unchained,” which is up for Best Picture in this year’s Academy Awards, and Tarantino’s previous historical revenge film “Inglorious Basterds.” The “SNL” spoof featured a

more vengeful Jesus than the Bible mentioned, who is portrayed by Academy Award-winner and “Django” star Christoph Waltz, as he rises from the tomb he was buried in after the crucifixion and begins his crusade of revenge on the Romans. Waltz, the host for “SNL” that evening, is up for another Best Supporting Actor award for his role in “Django,” and bore a very uncanny resemblance to the Christian savior. It’s easy to see how this short portrayal of a sword- and assault-weapon-wielding Jesus received a lot of negative feedback, since it aired right after Ash Wednesday and a lot of people – 50 percent, according to gallup.com – see Jesus as a sacred entity. But this is “SNL.” This is a show that routinely makes fun of anything topical, especially if that topic will stir controversy and garner gasps from viewers. Am I the only one who remembers them repeatedly mak-

ing fun of Gov. David Patterson, the former governor of New York, who is blind? Did that not cross a few lines? But with this parody piece, the writers and actors of “SNL” did not do anything illegal or unconstitutional. And to be honest, “Djesus” was one of the show’s better parodies in years. Think about it. Tarantino’s last two films have been historically based fantasies that revolve around the theme of revenge. In “Inglorious Basterds,” Jewish soldiers in World War II take violent and bloody revenge on the Nazis. In “Django,” a recently freed black man in the South during pre-Civil War times joins a bounty hunter who is charged with the task of taking down mostly pro-slavery targets while searching for his wife. So what would make the best fantasy revenge story that just so happens to have a connection with Lent, an ongoing ritual recognized by almost every

Christian denomination? Jesus killing Romans – that’s what. And yes, I was offended at first watching the Prince of Peace stabbing and shooting Roman soldiers as blood flew everywhere. But then I took into account that this was satirical and not meant to be taken seriously, and it does have a timely connection with the host, the Christian holiday and the recent Tarantino movies Waltz has played a role in. And again, might I stress, this is “SNL.” If anyone else did this sketch intending for it to be serious, then this would be something else altogether. But it was a parody – a hilarious, well executed one at that. So well done, “SNL” and Waltz, but maybe lay off the Jesus jokes for a little while, considering the backlash.

Bragg, a journalism and public relations major from Lillington, is the Editor-in-Chief.

| February 21, 2013

The Appalachian

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| TheAppalachianOnline.com

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Official University News & Announcements

Meeting Notes

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.

The Club Hub is open!

The Club Hub is open. What is it? A resource center to help support clubs. Where is it? 219 Plemmons Student Union across from SGA and The Appalachian. (the old CSIL offices) What is in it? Currently, there is extra meeting space for clubs. There are 2 conference rooms able to be reserved by clubs. Contact CSIL at 262-6252 to reserve them at this time. Also, there is casual meeting space if you are looking for a quiet place to have a club conversation. The refrigerator room is available for 48 hours at a time to store any supplies for your meeting in the Union. Contact CSIL at 262-6252 to reserve the refrigerator room. What else will be there? Coming soon will be a poster room and team building supplies that can be checked out. QUESTIONS? Contact CSIL at 828-262-6252. 2nd floor in the new section of the Student Union.

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.

Global Women’s Series in March

The campus and local community are invited to attend the first Global Womens Series, scheduled for March 2013. The theme for the series is “Women and the Environment: Ecofeminism and Activism.” We encourage faculty to participate and have their students attend. Tuesday, March 5, 5 to 7 p.m., Opening Event, “Environmental Activism: Expressions of Inspiration”, Price Lake, second floor in Plemmons Student Union. Welcome remarks by Dr. Sandra Lubarsky, Director of Sustainable Development, followed by performance art and a networking reception featuring student and local community groups involved in environmental activism. Week of March 18 (day TBA), 7 p.m.: Film, with panel discussion to follow, IG Greer Theatre. Hosted by the Global Women’s Series and sponsored by Department of Sustainability, Library, and Geology as part of the annual Sustainability Film Series. Wednesday, March 27, 7 p.m.: Keynote presentation with Dr. Chris Cuomo, “Eco-Feminism and Climate Change”; Parkway Ballroom, 4th floor of new addition in Plemmons Student Union Dr. Cuomo is professor of Philosophy and Women’s Studies at the University of Georgia, and an affiliate faculty member of the Environmental Ethics Certificate Program and the Institute for African-American Studies. The Global Womens Series addresses contemporary global issues affecting women and girls and is a collaborative effort between faculty, students, staff and community members. The program is co-sponsored by the Office of International Education and Development, Womens Studies, and the Belk Library. For more information, contact Sarah Bergstedt at bergstedtss@appstate.edu.

Visiting Writers begins in February

Appalachian State University’s Spring 2013 Hughlene Bostian Frank Visiting Writers Series begins Feb. 28 with poet and novelist Alan Michael Parker. The event will be held in the Table Rock Room of Plemmons Student Union at 7:30 p.m. Earlier that day, at 2 p.m. in the same Table Rock Room, a Craft Talk, “Real Gardens and Fake Trees; Or, How to Write the Life Imagined,” will be held. Poet Nathalie Anderson will read from her works on March 28 in Lecture Hall 114, Belk Library, at 7:30 p.m. A Craft Talk, “Writing Around,” will be held in Attic Window Room, Plemmons Student Union, at 2 p.m. Fiction writer and memorist Brett Lott will read form his works on April 4 in the Table Rock Room, Plemmons Student Union, at 7:30 p.m. A Craft Talk, “Writing With So Great a Cloud of Witnesses,” will be held in Table Rock at 3:30 p.m. Novelist and poet Darnell Arnoult will read from his works on April 18 at 7:30 p.m. in the Table Rock Room, Plemmons Student Union. A Craft Talk, “The Sublime Fiction Triangle,” will be held at 3:30 p.m. in Table Rock.

ACT to sponsor May event

Appalachian & the Community Together (ACT) at Appalachian State University will sponsor an International ASE May Break event May 13-28, in Thailand and Ghana. Sign up now in the new ACT Outreach Center located in Plemmons Student Union. A $500 deposit and your ID is required.

Speaker on Global Climate Change

“Global Climate Change – The Critical Thinking Factor” is the topic of Dr. Robert Bruck of N.C. State University today

A Service of the Division of Student Development

at 4 p.m. in the Grandfather Mountain Ballroom in Plemmons Student Union. Bruck’s talk is hosted by the ASU’s Goodnight Family Sustainable Development Program. Co-Sponsors are: ASU’s Environmental Science Program, Biology Department, Research Institute for Environment, Energy & Economics, Southern Appalachian Environmental Research & Education Group This event is free and open to ASU faculty, staff, and students as well as members of the community.

Wellness Workshops are planned

The Counseling Center at Appalachian State University presents “The Wellness Workshops: Feelin’ Good in the Neighborhood!” Workshops are: Pet the Dog: The Benefits of Pet Therapy, March 6, 11 a.m. to noon, Calloway Peak room of the student union; Get Movin’ to Reduce Stress, Anxiety and Depression (wear clothes and shoes you can move in), March 26, 5 to 6 p.m., Table Rock room of the student union; Born this Way: Learning to Love Yourself, April 11, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., Rough Ridge Room of the student union; Express Yosef: Self Expression through Art, April 15, 5-6 p.m., Attic Window room of the student union. For more information contact the Counseling Center at 262-3180 or counseling.appstate.edu.

Food Mood Group can help you cope

Do you weigh yourself everyday? Do you skip at least one meal a day? Do you count calories and fat grams every time you eat? Do you exercise because you have to not because you want to? Do you hate yourself for the size of your thighs? Do you need to better accept your self, body and all? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may benefit from participating in the Counseling Center’s Food Mood Group. For more information, contact the Counseling Center at 2623180, or drop by the Counseling Center during walk-in hours (Monday-Thursday, 1-4 p.m., and Friday, 1-3 p.m.). Or try an anonymous online screeing at counseling.appstate.edu and click “online screening.”

African American officer to speak

Join the Military Science and Leadership (Army ROTC) Department at Appalachian State University as it hosts Lt. Col. Maury Williams, Class of 1989. Williams will discuss his career and provide insights into the African American role in the U.S. Army. Williams is a proven leader with over 27 years of Army experience. He has commanded at the company and battalion level, deployed to Iraq, and served in several key position, inluding as the Executive Officer for the ASU ROTC Battalion. Williams talk will be Feb. 25 at 6 p.m. in the Rough Ridge Room (415) of Plemmons Student Union.

APPS Films ready for spring showings

The Appalachian Popular Programming Society (APPS) Films Council is pleased to announce its remaining schedule for the Spring 2013 semester. Our Popular Film Series at I.G. Greer SuperCinema will feature some of the most acclaimed movies of the awards season, as well as a blockbuster or two, and a few gems that are not as well known. The CinemaVintage series in the Greenbriar theater will start out creepy, reflect some dystopian tendencies, then veer off toward the tales of unruly ghosts and science run amok. Show times are listed with the schedule and as always, admission is still only $1. Here’s what APPS Films is bringing: IG Greer SuperCinema Popular Film Series: (All Showings at 7 and 9:30 p.m., except where otherwise noted; Admission $1.) Feb. 21- 23 - Skyfall (7 and 9:45 p.m.); Feb. 28 - March 2 - Wreck-It Ralph; Match 21-23 - Silver Linings Playbook; April 4-6 - The Hobbit (7 and 10:15 p.m.); April 11-13 - Les Miserables (7 and 10 p.m.); April 18-20 - Rise of the Guardians; April 25-27 - Hansel and Gretel Witch Hunters (Show times TBD); May 2-4 - Warm Bodies. Greenbriar Theater CinemaVintage Series: (All showings at 7 p.m.; Admission $1.); Beetlejuice (‘88); Feb. 20 and 22 Ghostbusters (‘84); Feb. 27 and March 1- Back to the Future (‘85); March 6 and 7* - Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (‘89); March 20 and 21* - Jurassic Park (‘93); March 27 and 28* - The Land Before Time (‘88); April 3 and 5 - Who Framed Roger Rabbit? (‘88); April 10 and 12 - Peter Pan (’53); April 17 and 19 - The Fox and the Hound (‘81); April 24 and 26 - Cinderella (’50); May 1 and 3 - The Nightmare Before Christmas (‘93) * denotes showings on Wednesday and Thursday. All titles, dates and show times are subject to change. If you would like to have some input on what movies are brought to campus, the APPS Films council meets at 5 p.m. Thursdays in the Rhododendron Room of the Plemmons Student Union. If you would like to suggest a film for viewing on campus, APPS Films can make arrangements for you to come to a meeting and make a case for it to be shown.

Research grants for students

The Research Institute for the Environment, Energy and Economics (RIEEE) at ASU is making three (3) research grants available for up to $500 to students who are conducting research pertaining to the environment, energy or economics. Research projects can be proposed by a single student or collaborative teams of more than one student. Collaborative project descriptions should explain what each team member will be contributing and why they are seeking to work collaboratively. These grants can be used for research supplies and research related expenses but not travel to present results at a meeting. Only undergraduate students enrolled at any time during the academic year are eligible. Grant winners will be published on the RIEEE website and may be asked to present their research at future conferences. The deadline for applications is Friday. All awarded funding must be able to be expended by May 31. The Office of Student Research must have the student’s completed online application, as well as a signed letter of recommendation from their Faculty Advisor. Please call 262-7655 if you have any questions.

ASU offers lifeguard certification

Appalachian State University Recreation and the American Red Cross are now accepting registration for our first spring session of lifeguarding certification classes. The lifeguarding classes are open to all community members and ASU students/staff who wish to obtain certifications in the areas of Lifeguarding, First Aid, and CRR/AED. Participants MUST be at least 15 years old and able to swim 300 yards. Fees for the course will include textbook, certificates, access to the pool and will be collected after the completion of the pre-course/ swim. Certifications in Lifeguarding, First Aid, and CPR/AED are good for two years before renewal in necessary. Registration is required. Limited space is available and registration is now open! Appalachian Student Fee: $185; Appalachian Faculty/Staff Fee: $195; UREC Staff Fee: $165. The required pre-course will be held March 4th. Fees will be collected after the completion of the pre-course/swim. The regular courses will be Mondays (3/18, 3/25) and Wednesdays (3/20, 3/27, 4/3) from 4-8 p.m. Session II will begin with a pre-course/swim on April 5th and classes will begin on April 12th. For registra-

tion forms, fees, and instructions, as well as dates for future sessions call Cheryl Eddins, Assistant Director for Aquatics at (828) 262-2100 or e-mail Cheryl at eddinscj@appstate.edu.

Adult swim lessons available

Appalachian State University Recreation and the aquatics department are now accepting registration for adult swim lessons! This six week program is open to community members, as well as students and faculty/staff members of ASU who are looking to learn or improve swimming skills. An assessment will be made at the first class to determine skill level; level concentrations include: beginner, intermediate and advanced. Whether you are a beginner or a competitive swimmer, this program is right for you: Lessons are from February 25th – April 15th; Classes are held Mondays from 6 – 6:45 p.m.; For registration forms and fee information, please visit us online at www.aquatics.appstate.edu.

Learn to swim program to start

Appalachian State University Recreation is getting ready for their American Red Cross Learn to Swim Session! The program offers children of Boone and the surrounding community the opportunity to learn the basics of swimming, or improve their existing swimming skills in a safe environment. All of the classes are taught by qualified and experienced instructors. Group lessons are offered for all skill levels and ages six months and up. Classes are small so that your child can receive individual attention when needed, while still having fun with other children of similar age and ability. Class includes 8 sessions from February 28th to March 20th (No class March 11th-13th for University Break). Courses offered: Infant/Toddler Swim, Preschool Swim, School Age Swim (shallow and deep water). Classes are held in the Appalachian State University Student Recreation Center Natatorium. Class days and times vary depending on the level of your swimmer: see website. For registration forms, fee information, and class times, please visit us online 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 or e-mail Cheryl at eddinscj@appstate.edu.

Film series ‘Muslem Journeys’ to start

The ASU Library and the ASU Humanities Council will host a series of films as part of the 2013 Muslim Journeys Program and in celebration of Black History Month. The award winning film, “Prince Among Slaves,” will be shown Tuesday, Feb. 26, at 7 p.m. in the Library Auditorium, Rm 114. The film will be introduced by ASU instructor Ray Christian, who will also lead discussion following the film. The film is based on the true story of Abdul Rahman Ibrahima Sori, an African prince and devout Muslim enslaved in the American South. In 1788, the slave ship Africa set sail from West Africa, headed for America with its berth laden with a profitable but highly perishable cargo - hundreds of men, women, and children bound in chains. Six months later the survivors were sold in Natchez, Mississippi. One of them, a twenty-sixyear-old man named Abdul-Rahman, made the remarkable claim to the farmer who purchased him at the auction that he was an African prince and that his father would pay gold for his ransom. The offer was refused and Abdul-Rahman did not return to Africa for another 40 years. During his enslavement he toiled on the Foster plantation, married, and fathered nine children. His story also eventually made him the most famous African in America, attracting the support of powerful men, such as President John Quincy Adams. After 40 years of slavery, Abdul-Rahman finally reclaimed his freedom, but he defied the order to return immediately to Africa, and instead traveled throughout the northern states, speaking to huge audiences in a partially successful attempt to raise enough money to buy his children’s freedom. Finally at the age of 67, after raising funds to free two of his children, Abdul-Rahman returned to Africa, only to fall ill and die just as word of his arrival reached his former home of Futa Jalloo in present-day Guinea. Abdul-Rahman survived the harsh ordeals of slavery through his love of family and his deep faith as a Muslim. For more information, contact Allan Scherlen, Belk Library, scherlnag@appstate.edu, 828-262-2285.

Appol Corps seeks students

Looking to get involved, make new friends, and have fun while doing it? Then look no further. Appol Corps is currently accepting applications for 2013. Appol Corps is a great leadership opportunity for anyone who loves ASU and wants to get involved. For more information and an online application visit the Appol Corps homepage at http://orientation.appstate. edu/appolcorps.appstate.edu. Application deadline is this Friday, Feb. 22. If you have any questions, please contact Clinton Marsh, Assistant Director of Orientation, at marshrc@ appstate.edu.

Tar Heel Traveler to speak at ASU

The ASU Advertising Club presents “Scott Mason: Stories from The Tar Heel Traveler” on Thursday, Feb. 28, 6 p.m., in Belk Library Lecture Hall Room 114. Scott Mason is a broadcast journalist with 28 years of television experience. He has won dozens of awards for documentaries, writing, and feature reporting, including three National Edward R. Murrow awards and 16 regional Emmys. In both 2004 and 2005, the Electronic News Association of the Carolinas named Scott the North Carolina Television Reporter of the Year. His Tar Heel Traveler series is featured Monday-Thursday on WRAL. It takes viewers along the back roads of North Carolina, where he meets memorable characters, finds out-of-the-way places, and unearths fascinating historical footnotes.

Polar Plunge set for this afternoon

The 15th Annual Polar Plunge to benefit Watauga County Special Olympics will be held today at the Duck Pond at Appalachian State University. The event is sponsored by local area law enforcement agencies and Watauga County Parks and Recreation Department. Registration for the plunge begins at 3 p.m. and the plunge begins at 4 p.m. Since its inception, the Polar Plunge has raised more than $98,000 for Special Olympics. All of the money raised for the Polar Plunge stays in Watauga County and supports local Special Olympic athletes. Last year, 142 hearty souls took the plunge and raised more than $8,234 for Watauga County Special Olympics. Individuals wishing to take the plunge are asked to donate $25. For groups of five or more that register as a group, a donation of $20 per person is requested. Prizes will be awarded for the most extreme costume (male and female) and for the top fund-raising group and individual. All plungers will receive a Polar Plunge towel. Anyone interested participating in the Polar Plunge or sponsoring a plunger should contact Keron Poteat, Watauga County Special Olympics coordinator, at 264-9511 or any of the Watauga County law enforcement agencies involved in sponsoring this event.

SPORTS

The Appalachian

| TheAppalachianOnline.com

February 21, 2013 |

WRESTLING

Wrestlers gear up for postseason by JESSE WARE Sports Reporter

fter a recent string of losses, the Appalachian State wrestling team will face a Southern Conference foe on the road as they prepare for the postseason. App State wrestling has recently experienced a fourmatch skid of losses to The Citadel, Duke and Chattanooga, and a 42-0 blowout at the hands of No. 11 Virginia. The Mountaineers have a chance to improve their record against Davidson (613, 1-5 SoCon) before the season’s end. Despite recent struggles, head coach John Mark Bentley plans to stay the course and expects things to come together for his squad. “It’s no different,” Bentley said of his team’s mindset. “We’ve had a few tough losses, but this team is getting better. We have to keep working on the process.” “We have a very real shot at a winning record and to be tied for second place in the SoCon. With as young as this team is, that’s nothing to hang your head over.” Senior Brett Boston gave the team and fans something to smile about during

Sports Schedule Wednesday, Feb. 20 Men’s Basketball Loses 80-77

Meghan Gay | Courtesy Photo

Despite a few losses, App State wrestling team looks to get back on the winning track as many wrestlers find themselves nationally ranked. The Mountaineers have a winnable match against Davidson to try and end the season on a high not.

Appalachian’s final home game of the season against Chattanooga Feb. 3 when he recorded his 50th career win by way of a 46-second pin against 133-pound Marvin Lopez. “I was nervous, but I wanted to go out with a bang,” Boston said. “I got him in a cradle and after that I don’t know what happened. I was so excited. I was so pumped.” Bentley hopes Boston

can keep his domination up. “It was nice to see him do that at his last home match,” Bentley said. “We’re really hoping he carries his momentum over the last few matches this season.” Redshirt sophomore Dominic Parisi has also attracted attention lately by being named the 22nd best 125-pound wrestler in the nation by NCAA’s first Rating Percentage Index for the 2012-13 wrestling

season. “Being ranked is good, but 22nd isn’t even good enough,” Parisi said. “I personally feel that I am capable of being [ranked] higher than 22. I want to be top 15, top 10.” Parisi was joined on the RPI by 165-pound redshirt freshman Zack Strickland (ranked 30th) and 174-pound redshirt freshman Colin Hedash (ranked 32th).

FIELD HOCKEY

Men’s basketball fought a tough game in over time but would fall short to The Citadel. Tab Hamilton, Mike Neal and Tevin Baskin led the way for App State with 13 points apiece.

Saturday

Feb. 23

Baseball App State vs. Butler (DH) 1 p.m. Women’s Tennis App State vs. ETSU 2 p.m. Women’s Tennis App State vs. UNCG (at Greensboro, N.C.) 2 p.m. Men’s and Women’s Track and Field SoCon Indoor Championships Indoor Season (at Winston-Salem, N.C.) 3 p.m.

Sunday

Feb. 24

Men’s and Women’s Track and Field SoCon Indoor Championships Indoor Season (at Winston-Salem, N.C.) 3 p.m. Baseball App State vs. Butler 1 p.m. Wrestling App State vs. VMI (at Davidson, N) 7:30 p.m. Aneisy Cardo | The Appalachian

Freshman forward Hanna French attempts to keep the puck in play from a Delaware defender in a match last fall. The team recently gained six recruits for the 2013 spring season.

Field hockey expects improvement in spring season by JESS LYONS Intern Sports Reporter

Appalachian State’s field hockey team recently gained an entirely new line of players that head coach Brandi Kist feels very confident about for the upcoming spring and fall seasons. The team’s previous season ended on a rough note (3-15),

but with many new faces on the team, the Mountaineers hope to drastically improve their record from the fall season. Expectations are high for the first game. With six new recruits coming into next year’s fall season, former All-Ohio Sophie Tikson, a first semester freshman forward from Ohio, joins her team a se-

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mester early. She is the only recruit for the team’s spring semester and, according to Kist, has great potential for this upcoming season. “I’m expecting to be challenged well because I’m at a different level from high school. It’s going to be really different,” Tikson said. Including Tikson, the team is going into

next fall with what Kist described as one of their strongest recruiting classes yet. “They’re going to be very motivated in our spring competition,” Kist said. Kist described her team as having great chemistry as even the players who are expected to join the team next fall already speak to each other, as well as the current field hockey team.

“We have a lot of bonding,” Tikson said. “We’re really close.” Kist said the entire current list of freshmen had a lot of experience this previous season, and now they’re ready to take that experience and put it into a brand new season. “We just need to work hard to get to where we need to be,” Tikson said.

Monday

Feb. 25

Women’s Golf High Point University Classic (at High Point, N.C.) All Day Men’s Golf Pfeiffer Intercollegiate (JV) (at Kannapolis, N.C./ Club at Irish Creek) All Day Women’s Basketball App State vs. Elon (at Elon, N.C.) 7 p.m.

Information compiled from goasu.com

Live closer. Sleep Longer. Find us on

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Sports

| TheAppalachianOnline.com

February 21, 2013 |

BASEBALL & SOFTBALL

Appalachian hits the diamond to open 2013 season Player of the Week: Jamie Nunn by JORDAN DAVIS Sports Reporter

Both the Appalachian State softball and baseball teams opened up the 2013 seasons this past weekend. The softball team played five games at the LaQuinta Inn & Suites/FGCU Invitational in Fort Myers, Fla., while baseball stayed in the state with one game at N.C. State University and a home game against Canisius University. Nunn is SoCon Pitcher of the Week, helps Mountaineers to 2-0 start The baseball team (2-0) should have four games under its belt by now, but a snowstorm in Raleigh wiped out the final two games of their series against No. 8 N.C. State. Sophomore pitcher Jamie Nunn earned Southern Conference Pitcher of the Week for his performance against the Wolfpack that helped the team earn a 6-3 victory. He was also named SoCon Student-Athlete of the Week. Nunn sat down the first nine batters he faced and struck out five in six innings of work. Other than Nunn’s pitching, the biggest key to the team’s success so far has been the power hitting. App State has 10 extra-base hits through the first two games, including three home runs during the second inning Monday on the way to a 13-6 rout of Canisius during their home opener. “Our approach is try to get your feet on the ground, squared up and try to hit it hard,” head coach Billy Jones said. “We’ve been fortunate enough to run into a few balls. Good things happen when you just try to hit the ball up the middle.” Jones also believes there is room to improve from the mound, despite the early success. “We haven’t thrown strike one enough — I thought we were behind on the mound,” Jones said. “But the positive to that is I thought we fought out some situations. We’ve been a little sloppy defensively the first two games,

Nunn was named SoCon Pitcher of the Week and SoCon Student-Athlete of the Week. He helped App State start off the season 2-0, including a win over No. 8 N.C. State.

Saturday

Olivia Wilkes | The Appalachian

Junior infielder Noah Holmes (left) congratulates freshman Dillon Dobson on his home run against Canisius College Monday afternoon. The Mountaineers defeated the Golden Griffins 13-5.

which is going to happen, but we have to make sure we’re locked in every day.” The Mountaineers stay at home this weekend for a three-game series against Butler beginning with a doubleheader Saturday, Feb. 23. Softball struggles early, still showing ‘a lot of grit’ The season hasn’t started as successfully for the softball team compared to the baseball team. The team opened the season on a high note with a 10-9 victory over Southern Illinois, despite falling in a 1-7 hole early in the contest. The Mountaineers fought back to tie the game at nine in the seventh inning and eventually won the game in its final at-bat thanks to an RBI single by catcher Sarah Warnock in the bot-

tom of the eighth. “In our first game against Southern Illinois, we spotted them seven runs,” head coach Shea Wesley said. “But for a team as young as we are to battle all the way back and come out on top of that game shows a lot of grit, especially by our younger players.” Since then, however, the team has dropped four straight and failed to score more than three runs in each of those games. “As far as our consistency from the first out to the last out, it was definitely there,” Wesley said. “The record doesn’t show what we did, but there are a lot of positives to take out of the weekend.” The women will be back on the road Tuesday, Feb. 26 for a game against University of South Carolina Upstate.

Feb. 16

Women’s Basketball App State (16-6, 10-4 SoCon) vs. Wofford (7-15, 2-12) 77-50 (W) Points: Anna Freeman (19) Rebounds: Freeman (15) Assists: Raven Gary (5) Softball App State (1-4) vs. Wichita State (3-6) (at Fort Myers, Fla.) 4-3 (L) Hits: Warnock, Cashion, Smith and Loudermilk (1) RBIs: Smith and Loudermilk (1)

Sunday

Feb. 17

Softball App State (1-4) vs. Wichita State (3-6) (at Fort Myers, Fla.) 2-1 (L) Hits: Warnock, Cashion, Loudermilk, Sohl, Cynthia Gomez (1) RBIs: Gomez (1) Women’s Tennis App State (6-1) vs. NCCU (0-2) 6-1 (W) Singles winners: Elli Linsell 6-2, 6-3; Clare Cox 6-2, 6-2; Jennifer Ansari 6-1, 6-2; Jessica Thaggard 6-1, 6-0; Carson Shell 6-0, 6-0 Doubles winners: Linsell/Mackenzie LaSure 8-2; Ansari/Cox 8-6; Gabriela Celi/Brianna Amerllino 8-3 Men’s Basketball App State (12-14, 8-7) at UNCG (7-18, 5-9) 76-68 (W)

Olivia Wilkes | The Appalachian

Sophomore infielder Alex Leach attempts an out against Canisius College Monday afternoon. The Mountaineers defeated the Golden Griffins 13-5.

Points: Jay Canty (17) Rebounds: Canty (9) Assists: Canty, Mike Neal (6)

Information compiled from goasu.com

In Charlotte this Summer? Catch Up, Get Ahead & Graduate On Time Catch up and get ahead by completing a course at UNC Charlotte. Visit SummerSchool.uncc.edu and click on Visiting Students.