The Appalachian Nov. 16, 2022

The Appalachian

The Appalachian is the award-winning, independent student-run news organization at Appalachian State University, published since 1934. The student staff maintains all editorial discretion, and there is no prior review by university faculty, staff or administrators.

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2022 Election Results

Local

Watauga County Sheriff projected winner: Len Hagaman Jr.

N.C. district court judge District 24 seat one projected winner: Matt Rupp

Board of Education projected winners: Gary Childers Jay Fenwick Marshall Ashcraft

N.C. House of Representatives projected winner: Ray Pickett

N.C. State Senate District 47 projected winner: Ralph Hise

N.C. district attorney District 35 projected winner: Seth Banks

Soil and Water District Supervisor projected winners: Billy Moretz Chris Hughes

StateU.S. Senate projected winner: Ted Budd U.S. House of Representatives District 5 projected winner: Virginia Foxx

All projected winners are called from reported numbers by the North Carolina State Board of Elections or Watauga County Board of Elections

For more election results, scan below

Student sets record as youngest-ever House of Delegates candidate

Moser | Reporter

A 20-year-old App State student is making history as the youngest ever candidate to run for office in the Virginia House of Delegates.

Zachary Coltrain, a music therapy major, is campaigning in Virginia’s 98th House of Delegates district, one of 100 representative districts in the state.

Coltrain said he was first inspired to enter the world of politics at age 15 when an interaction with thencongressman Scott Taylor left him feeling disillusioned.

“We started to have a dialogue and I gave him a little bit of context about who I was,” Coltrain said. “As we were talking, he pauses and goes, ‘Wait, you’re not 18?’”

Once Taylor realized that Coltrain could not yet vote, Coltrain said, Taylor immediately got up and left the table, abandoning their conversation.

“That caused me to work for my first campaign, which was for his challenger, Elaine Luria,” Coltrain said.

With assistance from campaign workers like Coltrain, Luria defeated Taylor.

At Coltrain’s high school, a legal studies program furthered his interest in politics and campaign work. This education, alongside his prior experience, landed him an official internship with Luria’s team during the next election cycle.

Coltrain said he gained valuable experience in campaign management and political networking during his time as an intern. His involvement didn’t stop there.

“I was able to convince a few friends to help me,” Coltrain said. “After that we did a state delegate campaign.”

He has also participated in local politics, namely a city council campaign.

Coltrain’s major allows him to help people in other ways, too. As the recipient of an endowed scholarship from the Hayes School of Music, he pursues his passion

while simultaneously working on his campaign.

“I was always attached to music,” Coltrain said. “I knew it was something that I had to continue.”

Coltrain said he views music therapy as a form of “mental healthh care” whereby he can give patients the “comfort of what they know.”

Balancing 16 credit hours in addition to ato maintaining a fullfledged political campaign requires “self-discipline and a tight schedule,” Coltrain said. On top of it all, he spends his weekends working a BobaBing food truck.

Speaking on his job with BobaBing, Coltrain said they “really support” his campaign.

Coltrain elaborated on his time management.

“Campaign work is in between the gaps and at night mostly,” Coltrain said. “I am slowly finding a balance as I have become more communicative with my professors, and they have supported me as a student and candidate.”

In some cases, Coltrain has been able to blend coursework together with his political platform.

“I get to help plan our Women Composers Concert next semester and make it a fundraiser event for reproductive charity,” Coltrain said.

Coltrain is on track to graduate from App State in May 2024. He has acknowledged the possibility of a fall 2024 graduation should he be elected.

The 98th House of Delegates district, shortened as VA-98, encompasses the various localities of Virginia Beach — and Coltrain calls it home. VA-98 has been in Republican Keith Hodges’ hands since 2011.

“This is a very interesting district because it really pulls together folks from all over the city,” Coltrain’s campaign website reads. “I want to be a voice for those in the district who haven’t felt truly represented by their current delegate.”

Coltrain’s main opponent, 68-yearold Republican Barry Knight, previously represented VA-81. The 2020 redrawing of districts

incorporated much of VA-81 into VA-98, which is why he’ll be facing Coltrain in the 2023 election.

“He is a millionaire. He owns his own helicopter,” Coltrain said.

In contrast, Coltrain is running a grassroots campaign that necessitates close relationships with advisors and potential supporters.

Coltrain launched his campaign after a call from William Reid, a

political activist whose father, also named William Reid, became the first African-American elected to the Virginia General Assembly during Reconstruction.

Reid encouraged Coltrain to run in VA-98 as part of the 90 for 90 initiative, which aims to supply a Democratic challenger in all Republican-controlled districts.

Coltrain is running on a

platform that emphasizes ing youth involvement in politics, environmental protection, intersectionality, reproductive health, cannabis legalization and increased special education services.

James

Zach Coltrain, a 20-year-old music therapy major sits for a portrait at Durham Park. Coltrain is the youngest ever to run for Virginia’s House of Delegates. Photo by Taylor Ward.

Highway expansion to impact locals, cost over $92 million

Will Hofmann | Enterprise Editor

New plans for the U.S. 321/U.S. 421 expansion project, running through Vilas to Boone’s N.C. 105 Bypass, show how the project will impact local landowners as the project aims to resolve current and anticipated congestion on the road. The project would expand the road from a single lane to two lanes in each direction, according to the project website.

“This is pretty doggone early in the process of improving this highway,” said North Carolina Department of Transportation Communications Officer David Uchiyama. “Public involvement is an important part of any significant transportation project.”

At the meeting, NCDOT officials proposed three plans for the widening project: a “left side” widening plan, a “right side” widening plan and a “best fit” widening plan.

The best fit plan shifts the alignment of the widening project from one side of the road to another throughout the project, “enabling engineers to reduce impacts that would otherwise result if the widening occurred entirely on one side of the roadway,” according to the project overview from the Oct. 13 meeting.

model for the area of U.S. 321/ U.S. 421 that runs through Vilas.

The “best fit” model sees 38 single family residences, one multi-family residence, seven businesses, and one historic site and streams affected by the widening project.

Impact numbers are subject to change as more detailed designs are completed. Though all dates are subject to change, construction on the proposed plan would begin summer 2027 and end summer 2030, according to the project overview.

“It looks like any of the proposals are going to affect us somewhat,” said Bill Dishman, who owns property off of U.S. 321. “So I don’t guess I have a favorite. A couple are better than one of them.”

During the meeting, residents and interested citizens were encouraged to make comments on current proposals. At the meeting, responses to the project were varied, with many expressing both positive and negative impacts that the project could have.

“I think it looks good,” said Shaun Kelly, who lives in Vilas. “I mean, it’s going to take a lot of people’s properties and stuff, but this road is very busy. And, if there’s ever a wreck, it gets locked up for hours and hours.”

State continue to experience growth,” according to the project overview. According to a 2018 version of NCDOT’s Watauga County Comprehensive Transportation Plan, approximately 19,500 vehicles will be expected to travel on the road every day; a 29% increase in overall traffic from 2022.

RC Motors, just off of U.S. 321/ U.S. 421 in Vilas, said that the “best fit plan looks like the best fit.”

The best fit plan runs narrowly around Church’s business, while the other two plans would place his business within the project right of way.

rights as a property owner and help navigate relocation or the sale of land, according to the NCDOT right of way guide.

“The only other solution that would come sooner than widening the road I think would be a lower speed limit,” Church said. “Maybe it’d make it safer.”

As current traffic volumes in the area are around 14,000-15,100 vehicles per day, the expansion aims to “alleviate current congestion and accommodate for future growth in traffic” anticipated as “Boone and App

“I see with Boone growing that it is a lot busier, and that its a pretty main highway to just be a two lane road,” business owner Zach Church said.

Church attended the event in hopes of learning how the highway expansion may affect his business. Church, who runs his family business,

All land located within the project right of way can be subject to acquisition by the NCDOT for project construction. Those with land that falls within the right of way of the final project can expect to be contacted by an NCDOT right of way agent who will advise how property will be affected, inform you of your

Each plan indicated different aspects of construction which may impact businesses, residencies and historic sites, along with bodies of water. As the project is still in an early stage, it has not yet included a best fit Local

Nikki Robinson, a Boone local, visited the forum with worries about the plans impacting “wildlife movement across this busy highway.”

Read more online:

APP STATE ROTC

Take the one hour classroom course (MSL 1001 or MSL 1002) to see what it is all about.

The course does not require commitment to the Army or ROTC. Many students discover opportunities and leadership skills. Search for “App State ROTC” online or Call 828 262 2994

Expansion will take place on U.S. 321/U.S. 421 toward Vilas, widening the road from two lanes to four lanes. Photo by Evan Bates.

A YEAR IN REVIEW

10 snapshots from this year.

some from notable moments, some from the quiet ones.

The day after Roe v. Wade was overturned, demonstrators made their way through downtown Boone, protesting the new legislation, June 25, 2022.

Senior Meredith Maiken climbs to the top of a pile of snow from the work of road scraping crews during Snowstorm Izzy, Jan. 16, 2022. Photo by Jesse Barber.

Passerbys listen to musicians playing bluegrass music in a stairwell alcove in Plemmons Student Union during the Fiddler’s Convention Feb. 5, 2022. Photo by Max Correa.

Mike McKee, a university economics professor, speaks with a repair client in his basement workshop Feb. 21, 2022. Mike repairs string instruments in his basement for Boone residents. Photo by Samuel Cooke.

Photo by Aldo Sarabia.

Tomato Shack owner Jerry Cheek plays guitar while waiting for customers, August 6, 2022. The shack closed at the end of August after construction began on 4.5 miles of Highway 104 between Foscoe and Boone. Photo by Samuel Cooke.

Following the game-winning Hail Mary touchdown, fans stormed the field in celebration of the Black and Gold win over Troy Sept. 17, 2022.

After App State’s miracle win against Troy, fans made their way to the Duck Pond for the second time in a week, flipping over the duck house in the process, Sept. 17 2022.

A member of Boone’s first mosque leads the call to prayer, beginning the Jumaah Prayer service, August 26, 2022. The Islamic Center of Boone opened in July. Photo by Samuel Cooke.

Jackson Lackey, the 18-year-old leader of canvassing for the Watauga Democratic Party, hands out pamphlets behind Plemmons Student Union, Nov. 8, 2022. Some electioneers are on campus working for over 12 hours straight on the days leading up to election day. Photo by Evan Bates.

Photo by Aldo Sarabia.

Photo by Evan Bates.

Vicky Grube, art education professor, stands for a portrait in her Wey Hall studio office. Grube teaches a comics class in the Turchin Center for Visual Arts. Photo by Alec Stacey.

New digs for beloved spot: Cafe Portofino’s update

The property owner of Cafe Portofino proposed a new building with a new purpose to replace the restaurant, according to a meeting agenda for the Boone Historic Preservation Committee.

The proposed construction for a replacement building follows its planned demolition.

Located in the same spot as Cafe Portofino’s building at 970 Rivers St., the proposed building is a twostory hotel consisting of 20 rooms, according to conceptual design plans.

The project is titled “Cafe Portofino Hotel” and will be developed by the Winkler Organization.

John Winkler, owner of the property, said that along with the 20 rooms, the hotel will include a restaurant or a coffee shop.

Winkler said he decided to propose a hotel for the location because he felt that Boone “needs” one. He said a reason why is because most hotels in Boone are located about a mile away from the university and the downtown area, with the exception of the Horton Hotel located on King Street.

“I think it’ll help the parking situation, and people will be able

to come into town and stay and walk and enjoy downtown Boone without having to come in, you know, a mile from out of town,” Winkler said. “I just think it will be a good idea.”

Winkler also said he believes the hotel will be a benefit for parents who come to town for Family Weekend or football games, as well as for students and other people who come to town or the university for summer programs or activities.

“I think it’s just going to give everybody an opportunity to have the ability to walk to these different programs or games or whatever it might be,” Winkler said.

At the moment, Winkler said he does not have an estimate for when the project will be done, as it is still in the planning stages. However, he said, it’s been in planning for at least a year.

“We have a lot of hoops to jump through,” Winkler said.

Winkler originally requested a Certificate of Appropriateness from the town, an application to have projects approved, for the demolition of Cafe Portofino, as well as the proposal of a one-story hotel on behalf of Rivers Street Ventures LLC. Winkler then revised the proposed project to be a two-story building June 24. He said he was granted the COA.

The building, which was once Cafe Portofino,

was built in 1939. It is zoned in the Historic District due to its historical significance of it originally being the Austin Tobacco Company prize room, “the only surviving building in the district that was ever associated with Boone’s once vigorous tobacco trade,” according to the designation report.

Construction of new commercial buildings in the Historic District must follow certain standards, according to the report, a few being:

Not duplicating or mimicking historic building appearances.

Incorporating predominant historic materials used in surrounding buildings, such as brick, native stone, wood and more.

Design, height, size and proportions of the building should compliment surrounding buildings and not “overpower” them.

According to the agenda, a member of the HPC said the applicant has met all of those requirements.

“The HPC did guide the application as part of that COA discussion to say ‘this is a design that we think meets the requirements of the district that the HPC has oversight of,’” said Eric Plaag, a historian and member of the HPC.

Winkler said he thinks a new look for the former building will be good for Boone.

“That old building is rotting down, and it just needs something there. I think it will help Boone look a lot better,” Winkler said. “I

The owners of Portofinos plan to move it/tear it down to build a boutique style hotel. Until then, Portofinos will remain boarded up as life progresses past it. Nov. 11, 2022. Photo by Aldo Sarabia.

just think it will be a great addition to downtown Boone.”

Inspiration for the planned exterior design was taken from the Daniel Boone Hotel built in 1925 and demolished in 1992, Winkler said.

According to the agenda, the planned exterior design for the hotel includes red brick exterior walls, a wooden veranda and wooden columns. All wood is planned to be painted white.

Winkler said the interior designs have not yet been planned.

The building extends partially over Boone Creek and has columns supporting the building touching the water.

“The project will be required to have a No-Rise Certification for all work in the floodway including but not limited to demolition, stream

restoration and new building,” Brandon Wise, environmental planner, said in a comment on the agenda.

According to another staff comment, “the applicant intends to restore the streambank and has obtained a variance to do so.”

Because of his position on the HPC, Plaag was unable to comment on any further details regarding the project. However, Plaag said any upcoming changes to the site still needs to meet other Unified Development Ordinance requirements the HPC does not weigh in on. Those are considered by the Boone Town Council and Planning Commission.

Winkler said it may take until the winter season for plans to be fully formulated.

Retiree writing group tells stories from the foothills

Hidden within the hills of North Carolina lies a rich history of stories often untold. However, a writing group composed of retirees from counties across the foothills region with a love for storytelling have been uncovering these tales through their new anthology of short stories.

For the third year in a row, the group, named the Foothills Writers, put out their anthology of short stories, “Our Foothills III.” The book was published through Kindle Direct Publishing Aug. 1.

Their third anthology is a collection of responses to prompts centered around nostalgic reflection of the state’s foothills. Chapters explore topics ranging from the history of the foothills, such as Gretchen Griffith’s “From Flanders Field to the Carolina Foothills,” a memoir of a fallen WWI soldier, to a recount from Michael Fitzgerald,

writer and veteran, of his experiences as a truck driver through the region.

“I think the anthology is the foothills. We try to be regional in either drawing or focusing on things within the region or things we think will be of interest to people in the region,” Fitzgerald said.

Foothills Writers was not always intended to turn into the successful alliance of published authors that they have become.

The group’s roots lie in supporting one another’s interest in writing simply for themselves. They began in 2018, with members at various levels of expertise meeting once a week to present lessons to one another on

writing techniques, explore prompts and introduce each other to new writing styles.

“It’s amazing how we can take one simple prompt and come up with

so many varied stories that are not even related to each other,” Griffith said. “You’d think everybody would come up with the same story, but we’re so different, our minds think differently. I’ve learned so much from this group with just the way that they put words together, and that helps with my writing too.”

Some of the writers come from a background of writing, such as Griffith, who is the author of 12 published books and selftitled “storycatcher.” For others, the group is an opportunity to explore a new interest and their first chance at being published. Take Karen Downs, a retired nurse who recently discovered her love for writing and used it to journal

throughout the pandemic.

As time went on and their writing became more focused, the group made the decision to collect their responses to weekly prompts and publish through Amazon Publishing. While the first two anthologies were broader, more eclectic collections of writing based on a more wide ranging variety of prompts, the third anthology reflected the groups combined growth with a more focused topic.

“Some of the stories I’m more content with than others. Some stories are just filling a requirement, like a writing assignment, and some were real stories that I wanted to write someday and share with people and the anthology gave me the opportunity to do that,” Fitzgerald said.

Read more online:

Amena Matcheswala | Reporter

Foothill’s three anthologies, Photo Courtesy of Stefanie Hutcheson

Bell bottoms, blouses and bags: Boone’s thrifting scene

Jaclyn Bartlett | Reporter

The slide and clink of hangers, the lingering mothball smell, textures ranging from itchy to velvety … this is thrifting. Whether it’s the search for classic bell bottoms, a nicely broken in leather jacket, baggy grandparent-esque sweaters or the perfect Levi’s, Boone has been taken over by its thrifting scene.

The trends are so apparent that university apparel design majors say thrifted and vintage clothing has certainly grown, owing this to the university’s distinct style and culture.

Senior apparel design and merchandising major, Miles Cole, has a front row seat to App State’s unique fashion with his experience co-running the university’s studentrun fashion magazine, The Collective.

“

Cole fell in love with fashion because of how it provides an outlet for self expression.

“It’s fun to me, essentially playing dress up,” Cole said. “I always say becoming how you see yourself in your head or visually representing that gives you a boost of confidence.”

Cole works at Anna Banana’s,

going through items people bring and pricing them. Cole describes university students as creative and willing to experiment with clothing, and because of this, always up to date on fashion trends.

“First of all, I think we’re ahead of the game in terms of everything, like trendy fashion now,” Cole said.

Junior apparel design and merchandising major Katie Bridges credits this trendiness to the university’s population from diverse backgrounds, referring to the fashion as a “snowball effect” where students come to the university with their own distinct styles and build off one another to create a completely new aesthetic.

“Entering college, I saw so many styles that I’ve never seen that I really liked, and now that I include that into my fashion,” Bridges said.

Bridges partly owes App State’s creative style to thrifted and vintage clothing.

“I think people have really utilized the shops like Anna Banana’s and Goodwill to find unique pieces, and it’s very evident,” Bridges said. “Even walking on campus, you can see how people’s styles are just so different.”

Junior apparel design major Claire

Brantley agrees thrifting and buying vintage allows students to express their individual styles and distinguish themselves from their peers.

“I think that especially at App State people just really enjoy being unique,” Brantley said.

Brantley said when someone buys clothes from a store like American Eagle, people can easily recognize where they came from as opposed to the individualized items found at thrift stores.

“If you go find a cool vintage pair of jeans from a thrift store, nobody’s going to know where you got them,” Brantley said.

Brantley recently switched her major from nursing to apparel design because she said she has always had an interest in fashion and didn’t feel

nursing allowed her to express her creativity.

Brantley hopes to design lingerie while promoting body positivity, inclusivity and sustainability.

“That’s a big part of what I want to do in my designs and stuff is be more inclusive with whatever brand I work with,” Brantley said. “But I’m also interested in being sustainable and not producing more clothes, just like learning how to reuse all of the materials that we already have.”

Brantley isn’t alone in her desire for sustainable clothing. University students have set up pop-up shops on King Street, selling thrifted and upcycled clothes, and some have even created their own businesses.

Thrifted clothing has also grown as a trend on social media, with

Apparel design major Claire Brantley hard at work using a sewing machine in the design studio. Photo by Darcy Sluder.

Miles Cole, an apparel design major, pictured at Anna Banana’s Fine Consignment on King Street. Photo by Darcy Sluder.

It’s fun to me, playing dress up ... becoming yourself gives you a boost of confidence”

- Miles Cole

numerous viral TikToks of thrift store and vintage clothing hauls.

With such vast popularity in thrifted and vintage clothes, it’s no wonder small businesses from around the country come together for the Boone Vintage Market. On Oct. 22, Appalachian Mountain Brewery hosted their third market, with over 45 vendors present to sell their unique vintage clothing.

A market attendee, freshman sustainable development and religious studies major Angela Kirchoff said another appeal of buying vintage for students, and something setting our students apart from other colleges, is the freedom for the LBGTQ+ population to express themselves with their fashion.

“It’s just the freedom, I think,” Kirchoff said. “I will say a lot of queer people go here, and a lot of queer culture is centered around fashion.”

Another attendee, junior apparel design and merchandising major André Edwards said the appeal has to do with affordability.

“I hate buying things brand new,” Edwards said. “If I see something and it’s cheap, why not get it? Instead of paying, like, $75 at Urban Outfitters.”

Edwards recycles fabrics and repurposes them into his own designs for his fashion brand, “Andre Archive.”

One of the vendors, Jackson Underwood, runs the fashion company, Despise Gossip, with his brother, Timothy Underwood. He said they named the company after the parts of the fast fashion industry they despise.

“It also promotes sustainability and is green friendly,” Underwood said. “We really despise fast fashion, the Sheins and stuff like that.”

Underwood described what they sell as “true vintage” with clothes from the ‘60s through ‘80s.

He said it’s important for them to keep their prices low to give people access to timeless styles.

“It goes into our philosophy of clothes are meant to be worn, not stored somewhere, and so we try to keep prices as low as possible to make the barrier of entry low,” Underwood said.

Another vendor, Tyler Troyler, said he began collecting vintage clothing around four years ago, and when his closet started overflowing and he decided to sell some items, he realized there was a large market for people who wanted sustainable, vintage clothing. Troyler made a Depop account and created a brand to start selling from his large collection.

Troyler said his clothes appeal to a younger demographic.

“I think my biggest demographic is going to be college students,” Troyler said. “I even had some high school students getting into it, but I just think it’s a generational thing. It’s becoming more popular.”

Troyler also feels the sustainability of buying vintage plays into college students’ interest.

“I definitely think that the younger generation just has gravitated towards it for sustainability,” Troyler said. “You know, saving the planet, not using up resources to make clothing, but recognizing that there’s plenty of clothing out there.”

Whether the appeal is individuality, affordability or sustainability, most seem to agree that thrifting and vintage clothing provide a way for young people to express their identities through their unique style.

“Most people who buy stuff are college students, looking to kind of, like, find themselves and their identity,” Underwood said.

There will be another Boone Vintage Market Dec. 4 at Watauga Recreation Center.

Graphics by Rian Hughes.

Vendors and shoppers gather at Appalachian Mountain Brewery to buy and sell clothes at the vintage market Oct. 22, 2022. Photo by Hiatt Ellis.

Nick Pianovich, of Alley-Oop Culture Exchange, poses in front of his merchandise at the vintage market at Appalachian Mountain Brewery on Oct. 22, 2022. Photo by Hiatt Ellis.

Fall-to-winter cozy catches

Gabrielle Troutman | Managing Editor

If your eyes aren’t too tired from the semester’s reading, dive into this list of comfort reads as the temperature plummets and coziness emanates with the changing season. Whether you’re falling into a cozy book to escape family holidays, needing a cheesy romance or wanting an escape to a fantastical scene, this list has all your postfinals, fall-to-winter break needs.

“The Secret History”

by Donna Tartt

A story best indulged in dark academia attire for those who can’t be released from their academic vibe just yet. The murder mystery is set in a Vermont fall as a small, very select group of students study the classics under the direction of their peculiar professor, Julian, as the group and the season begin to chill and turn.

“The Inheritance Games” by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

“Cinderella” meets “Knives Out” in this YA story following an orphan girl, Avery Grambs, and the Hawthorne family as they play a “game” to win the large inheritance of the family legacy. A mystery, a love triangle and a deadlystakes fight for money, this one will keep the twists coming.

“The Witch’s Heart” by Genevieve Gornichec

Drawing on Norse mythology, Gornichec writes the story of the banished witch Angrboda as she falls in love with Loki, the legendary trickster — though not the one billed by Marvel.

Winter movie roundup

“Game of Thrones” by George R.R. Martin

“Winter is coming,” and so is a break in the semester. If you haven’t already, take the time to delve into the, albeit unfinished, iconic book series behind the hit HBO show.

“The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe” by C.S. Lewis

A cooling start to a classic series, the Pevensie children’s escape from World War II into Narnia is sure to offer some comfort and action as the tensions of the land ramp up to include the Pevensie children, the White Witch, the creatures of Narnia and Aslan.

“A Holly Jolly Diwali” by Sonya Lalli

For those looking to cuddle up with a bit of a cheesy holiday romance, meet rule follower data analyst Niki Randhawa. When Niki suddenly gets fired, she decides to attend her friend’s wedding in India where she is swept away by a flirtatious friendship-turnedinsta-love with musician Sameer that has Niki letting loose and enjoying life. But when her old life starts calling her back, Niki realizes she might have to leave her swooning and get back to reality.

“Checking It Twice” by Lucy Bexley

A Christmas novella about Hal, a type-A wedding planner, and Sacha, the chaotic sister to the bride of the Christmas wedding Hal has planned. Hal remembers Sacha from high school, but Sacha doesn’t — though she also can’t stop thinking about Hal as the wedding weekend and holiday season surrounds them both.

Boone winters can feel like they last about eight years. They’re cold,long and it just so happens that they’re perfect for cuddling up for a movie. Here are eight movies from the last eight years perfect for riding out the coldest and most wonderful time of the year.

For bundling up against Boone winds, try “The Northman,” 2022 Robert Eggers’ Viking epic follows Amleth, a young Nordic prince, who is thrown into exile as a young man after his father’s murder. Amleth, played by the ferocious Alexander

Skarsgård as an adult, becomes a Viking berserker, vowing to avenge his father, save his mother and kill his uncle with the help of incredible fight choreography and a witchy performance by Anya Taylor-Joy. While it may get cold in Boone, at least it isn’t as wintry as ninth century Iceland.

For reconnecting with old friends, try “Passing,” 2021 Netflix’s 2021 drama “Passing,” based on the 1929 novel by Nella Larsen, stars Tessa Thompson and Ruth Negga as two Black women living in 1920s New York. Patiently shot in beautiful black-and-white, the film follows Thompson’s character Irene, who reconnects with her childhood friend Clare, as played by Negga, after a chance encounter

in Harlem. Clare reveals to Irene that she is “passing” as white, and married to an openly-racist white doctor in order to live in New York’s socialite circles. As the two rekindle their friendship, the tension between Clare’s “passing” and authentic identities creates increasingly dangerous circumstances for Irene and her family. “Passing” is a slowburn, but like a bear in hibernation, it erupts by the end into an explosive springtime.

For getting your brain out of hibernation, try “I’m Thinking of Ending Things,” 2020 Strange, symbolic and surreal, Charlie Kaufman’s psychological thriller “I’m Thinking of Ending Things” depicts the end of a relationship during a couple’s visit

to the boyfriend’s childhood home. Academy Award nominees Jessie Buckley and Jesse Plemons portray the unnamed young woman and her boyfriend, respectively, and traverse a winter dreamscape in what might be the worst meet-the-parents scenario of all time. The film is off-putting but orchestral, with a rewarding final act as the viewer puts the plot’s pieces together.

For coming to terms with spiders taking shelter in your house, try “Spider-Man: Into the SpiderVerse,” 2018

Critics have hailed “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” as the best Spider-Man movie to date, and for good reason. Filled with humor, heart and heroics, as well as a killer soundtrack, “Spider-Verse” is as close to being immersed in a comic book as it gets. Come for Miles Morales’ Spider-story, stay for John Mulaney and Nicolas Cage

providing the voice talent for the strangest Spider-Men ever seen on screen.

For practicing your winter sports game, try “I, Tonya,” 2017

Margot Robbie dazzles as the infamous ice skater Tonya Harding in this satirical send-up of her controversial rise to the top of the winter sports world. “I, Tonya,” is a dark comedy on ice, depicting the harrowing relationships Harding had with her mother, Allison Janney, in an Academy Award-winning performance, and her ex-husband, as played by Sebastian Stan. For those looking for winter sports with spite, keep “I, Tonya” on until the next Winter Olympics.

Pruett Norris | Reporter

Illustration by Addie Low.

Graphic by Rian Hughes.

Surviving Boone winters

Essentials for High Country’s harshest season

Asher Davidson | A&C Editor

A slight rustle of leaves, the delicious taste of everything peppermint, wind biting at the exposed cheeks of students. Soon there will be varying layers of snow on the pavement and classes will be unbearable to trek to. All signs of another harsh, hectic and heavenly Boone winter.

Surviving these winters can take its toll, but with the proper preparation, even the most novice winter-goer can learn how to make the most of the cold rigid air. The selfpreparation also gives everyone a time to revamp their winter fashion.

A warm base layer goes a long way in keeping warm, as does some fashionable and heat trapping accessories. Nothing says “I’m ready for the Boone winter” like throwing on a tight pair of thermal underwear from Footsloggers and throwing on

a heavy down jacket and sturdy snow boots from Regear.

While that takes care of basics, no outfit is complete without the proper accessories. Sure those can be found on Amazon or any other online vendor, but why not support local and have some winter time fun going into the small shops on King Street looking for some chic gloves and a scarf or two? Stop into Boone Belles for some warm and stylish hats or meander into Highway Robbery for some comfy and stylish gloves. For the outdoorsy folks, Mast General Store has a large selection of outdoor apparel, and visitors can even go to the first store opened in Valle Crucis.

All that walking around and shopping is bound to work up an appetite and

what’s winter without a piping hot coffee or latte? Luckily, Boone is home to great coffee shops, and most, along with Starbucks are serving holiday drinks again.

If for some reason Starbucks doesn’t quench the winter thirst, stop in at Boone’s famous Local Lion for some craving quenching coffee and delightful doughnuts. Another two must-stop coffee shops are Talia Espresso and Hatchet Coffee Roasters.

Talia Espresso offers drinkers “delicious espresso-based beverages, fresh sustainable foods and connected community,” plus they have some killer stickers to purchase. Hatchet believes in a “roast for sweetness and balance, have a little bit of something for everyone, and get it to them fast.” No matter where the coffee is from it will warm right down to the bone.

the sky opens up and what falls from the heavens can only be described as pure fun, that is unless one is trying to navigate this white powdery delight in a car. Driving in the snow can always be a hazard unless one is prepared. The safest option for anyone driving in snow is to have a good set of chains for tires. Chains can be picked up at any one of the many auto stores around town and if a car happens to get stuck somewhere just give K&S Towing a call, they are more than happy to help.

Of course all this headache can be prevented if one decides to stay at home and make use of the snow by having a good old fashioned snowball fight, or building a snowman to guard the dorms. After all, a winter in Boone is best spent and survived with friends.

By Abby Buckner Reporter

14 Tour Appalachian Theatre of the High Country

1 p.m. Every Wednesday through Dec. 14.

Fall Appalachian Dance Ensemble

Valborg Thetare. Nov. 16-19, 7 p.m., Nov. 20, 2 p.m. Adults $17, Faculty/Staff $15, Students $10.

18

Cookies & Cocoa

Cascades Foyer. 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.

Jim Lauderdale concert

Appalachian Theatre of the High Country

7:30 p.m. $20 in advance, $25 day-of.

Game Night with the Recreation Management Association

Bo’s Family Entertainment. 8 - 9 p.m.

19

25

Christmas at Apple Hill Farm

Apple Hill Farm. 10:30 a.m. - 2:20 p.m. Adults $17, Seniors/Military $15 through Jan. 1.

Blowing Rock Christmas in the Park and Lighting of the Town

Noon in Memorial Park.

Festival of Lights at Chetola Resort

Timberlake’s Restaurant at Chetola. 5 - 10 p.m. through Jan. 29

Tweetsie Christmas

Tweetsie Railroad. 5:30 p.m. Adults $52 through Dec. 30, on select evenings.

Annual Thanksgiving Kiln Opening

Bolick and Traditions Pottery. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Blowing Rock Christmas Parade

Memorial Park. 10 a.m.

29 Also coming up...

Fall Sustainability Film Series — The Ants and the Grasshopper

Greenbriar Theater. 7 - 9 p.m.

Dec. 1 - Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy: A Celtic Family Christmas

- Short Play Festival, through Dec. 4.

Dec. 2 - Hot Chocolate Social with the Recreation Management Association

Dec. 3 - A Carolina Snowbelle Christmas, through Dec 4.

Graphics by Giselle Gonzalez-Garcia.

From Ann Arbor to College Station:

The rise of Mountaineer football

Hudson | Reporter Chance Chamberlain | Reporter

As the clock hit zero on Sept. 10 in College Station, App State took down another top 10 team on the road, 15 years after the historic win against Michigan.

As the season nears its end, players and fans have since gotten a chance to look back at the game that shocked the college football world and how the Mountaineers carry the legacy.

“I would say that Appalachian State Football looked smaller, even simpler 15 years ago, but the heart of the team and our fans has never changed,” said James Jestes of House United, a group of alumni from 2009.

2005 – 2007

The university had already seen success at the Football Championship Subdivision level before 2005, with multiple 10-win seasons and Southern Conference Championships under head coach Jerry Moore.

“The core of what makes Appalachian State so special has been the constant and is the real reason for its success: family,” Jestes said. “It’s always been about family since coach Jerry Moore came to Boone.”

Even without national recognition after multiple championships, the fanbase knew there was something special about Mountaineer football.

“Remarkably, the football program is very much the same, even back into the ‘80s,” Jestes said. “The only differences

are the number of fans in the stands, visibility on television, social media and the production of the product on the field.”

In 2005, however, the team won the first of three back-to-back national championships.

“I feel like Coach Moore took it up another level during that time to start proving who Appalachian was,” said former player Corey Lynch.

Lynch played safety for the Mountaineers and had a pivotal role in the win at Michigan, blocking the Wolverines’ game-winning field goal attempt in the final seconds.

Heading into 2007, the Mountaineers were coming off two national championship wins and were

preparing to open the season against the No. 5 Michigan Wolverines.

“We felt very confident that we were a good team, but we weren’t expecting to win, I don’t think,” Lynch said.

Before the game, a ranked Football Bowl Subdivision team had never lost to an FCS team. Later that day, App State became the first.

“They can only put 11 guys on the field against our 11, and we think we can play with anybody in the country,” Lynch said. “And you know, that was true that day.”

Mental preparation remained a key focus for the coaching staff to build up to the game.

“Our strength coach at the time, he would play that Michigan fight song

in the weight room for practice during workouts to the point where we were so sick and tired of hearing it,” said former running back Devon Moore. “Leading up to it, we tried not to let too much noise and stuff as far as the media and what they were saying affect us.”

Following the win, students in Boone took to the streets in celebration.

“They went to the stadium and tore down the field goal post; it was ecstatic. It was fun to be on campus,” said Ryan Wixted, a student in 2007 who was in Boone to experience the celebration. “It was something that had never been done before at the college level.”

The university went on to win the 2007 FCS National Championship. In 2012, the team parted ways with

Briggs

Confetti rains down during the celebration after App State’s fourth-straight Sun Belt Championship in 2019. Photo by Max Correa.

longtime coach Jerry Moore, moving to the FBS and Sun Belt Conference two years later.

2014 – 2019

The Mountaineers adjusted quickly to the FBS, sharing the Sun Belt Championship in 2016 and 2017. In 2018, however, the team came close to taking down No. 10 Penn State and won their first outright conference championship in the inaugural Sun Belt Conference Championship.

Following the championship win, head coach Scott Satterfield left the program. Eliah Drinkwitz took over, heading into one of the Mountaineer’s most successful years since 2007.

“Coach Drinkwitz’s culture was about winning on and off the field and doing things better than they’d ever done,” said Kaiden Smith, defensive back for the Mountaineers from 201621.

No longer an FCS underdog, App State once again had opportunities to prove itself with games scheduled against North Carolina and South Carolina in 2019. Naturally, the Mountaineers won both.

“It’s pretty exciting to see how that kind of tradition carries on and kind of see what the coaches can get out of the place,” said Xavier Subotsch, starting punter for the Mountaineers from 2019-21. “I think just that that’s a tradition of trying to leave the place, you know, better than better than you found it.”

The win at Chapel Hill, once again thanks to a blocked field goal, marked the Mountaineers’ first win against a Power Five program since Michigan. Likewise, the win over South Carolina would be the first victory over a Southeastern Conference opponent.

“It was the peak of our powers; it was the reason we finally beat those Power Five teams and got over that hump,” Smith said. “Would confidently take that team against just about anybody, and long story short, we had a bunch of dogs.”

Both wins helped establish the university as not just a good Group of Five program with a memorable upset win but a football team genuinely capable of dispatching Power Five programs and honoring the teams that

came before.

“Knowing what Coach Moore built back in the day and what he was trying to achieve, I think they’ve done a great job of making sure that guys are aware of the history and can live up to that,” Subotsch said.

The Mountaineers would go on to win 13 games in 2019 and claim the Sun Belt title, losing Drinkwitz to Missouri. Shawn Clark, a position coach at the time, stepped in as head coach. Like Satterfield, Clark was a former football player, having played for the Mountaineers in the ‘90s.

“They know the history and tradition of App State and their work ethic, they know about the town, they know about the team,” said Moore on having former players lead the program. “I think that’s what’s been instrumental in keeping this team traditionally good year in and year out.”

Lynch shared a similar sentiment, appreciating that Clark has been able to find success as an “insider.”

After the 2019 season, the program would receive several renovations, with the focal point being Kidd Brewer Stadium.

“The winning culture, the team camaraderie and leadership, the offseason and in-season mentality, and the emphasis on winning never changed,” Smith said. “But thankfully, all of those culminated and led to many of the changes we see now with the new facility, more national attention, more big wins, and more.”

2022

With head coach Shawn Clark now at the helm for two seasons and appearing in his first Sun Belt Championship in 2021, there was more to be accomplished for the 2022 season.

From the outside looking in, the 2022 season was a tough test for the Mountaineers, with early season games against North Carolina and Texas A&M. Within the locker room, the team was prepared for what laid ahead.

“Most of them big games, they have a bigger name than us, but every week we’re coming in working no matter who our opponent is and trying to go 1-0,” said Daetrich Harrington, redshirt senior running back.

The “1-0” mentality was brought in

by Clark and continues to be a focal point every day during a week of preparation before a game.

“Keep pushing, 1-0 mentality; coach Clark says it daily in the meetings,” said Isaiah Helms, junior offensive lineman.

Clark is a former All-American offensive lineman for the Mountaineers and pushes lineman like Helms to their furthest to become better every day.

This mental toughness was brought into College Station against No. 6 Texas A&M and resulted in the Mountaineer’s biggest win since 2007 in Ann Arbor. This seemed like another miracle to the fans, but it was a culmination of what the players were building.

“Brick by brick,” Helms said. “It won’t happen overnight; we must keep working every day and getting better and better.”

The result was historic, with students once again celebrating in the streets, calling back to the victory over Michigan 15 years prior. ESPN’s College GameDay announced they were coming to Boone later that evening.

“It finally gets us to that point where we have this ability, and we have the talent and tradition and culture where we can beat these teams consistently,” said Bailey Lang, president of the Student Yosef Club. “Instead of getting just close enough, we have the ability to finish it out.”

Despite the excitement, the preparation remained the same for any opponent the Mountaineers faced.

“Every game is the same; we gotta lock in and stay focused,” Harrington said.

As the season wraps up, players will be playing their final snaps of college football after the countless practices and games they’ve given to the program and each other.

“You’re with your brothers,” Helms said. “You’re only guaranteed one more play.”

With Senior Day, players wish to utilize the opportunity to give it their all one last time in front of the Mountaineer fans.

“I’m going to be ready to give it my all like it’s my last game, my last play,” Harrington said. “I can’t wait to come out to my last game and give a show.”

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Former App State quarterback Armanti Edwards evades a defender during the 2007 victory over the No. 5 Michigan Wolverines. Photo courtesy of App State Athletics.

Mountaineers players hoist the 2015 Camellia Bowl trophy after the programs first bowl win. App State became the first team in NCAA history to win a bowl game in their first season of bowl eligibility. Photo by Christopher Deverell.

Junior defensive back Nick Ross takes down Haynes King during the Mountaineers road upset of No. 6 Texas A&M. The victory earned national recognition and a visit from ESPN’s College GameDay. Photo courtesy of Andy McLean, App State Athletics.

Twins dribble different routes through Mountaineer basketball

Kolby Shea | Reporter

Twin brothers, seniors Aaron Muse and Andrew Muse, play different roles but are foundational to the success of App State basketball.

The Muse brothers have their roots in basketball and the university. Their grandfather played for the team in the late ‘50s, and their father, uncle and older brother served as managers for the Mountaineers. When head coach Dustin Kerns was a graduate assistant at Tennessee, the then 5-year-old boys came to a team camp with their father, a friend of Kerns. These connections led them to where they are today.

“We’ve just been surrounded by basketball our whole lives. It’s in our blood,” Andrew Muse said.

Growing up, they dreamed of playing basketball for their dad, the head coach at Mount Tabor High School, and those dreams were fulfilled. They said they’ve always loved being a part of a team, a part of something bigger than themselves.While the brothers played varsity basketball, Mount Tabor went 43-16. In both 2018 and 2019, they made it to the third round of the North Carolina High School 3A Tournament. Through all the wins, one sticks out. The twins played in the game that secured their father’s 500th win as a coach. They said it was a special moment for them, for their father, for the team and for their family.

When it was time to decide on college, the brothers originally had separate feelings. At first, Andrew

Muse wanted to be different from the rest of his family and carve his own path. However, a visit and tour of the university’s campus changed his mind. Ultimately, he said he knew App State was where he wanted to

be. He said he always wanted to play Division I basketball and this felt like his best opportunity. After speaking with Kerns, the opportunity to play a role as a walk-on was something he felt he couldn’t turn down.

“I just thank God every day that Coach Kerns gave me a shot, and I feel like this is where I’m supposed to be,” Andrew Muse said.

On the other hand, Aaron Muse always knew he would be a Mountaineer. He was being recruited out of high school to play football at several colleges but decided to try to walk-on at the university. He wasn’t able to make the team, but when that door was closed, Kerns happily opened a new one. Aaron Muse would serve as a manager for the basketball team.

“I’m just so thankful just to have the opportunity to be a part of this program and just serve the guys and serve others,” Aaron Muse said.

The twins now have an opportunity to work together, side-by-side, every day. They said they enjoy their time together as part of the basketball team.

“I could’ve gone and done my own thing and he could’ve gone and done his own thing,” Aaron Muse said. “But it just wouldn’t have been the same.”

Being involved with the team has positively impacted their lives on a higher level. Not only does it set them up for future success, but it has provided many lessons along the way. First and foremost, they learned the value of roles in a program.

“There’s no job too small and no job too big. Everybody has a role,” Andrew Muse said. “If you do your role to the best of your ability, good

things happen.”

The roles they filled weren’t limited to the basketball court, but extended much further into App State basketball as a whole.

“We are all pieces of the puzzle,” Aaron Muse said.

The twins and Kerns both got their start at the university in 2019. Kerns credits the pair for being a part of the reason the Mountaineers stopped eight-straight losing seasons.

“Both have been critical to our success and a huge part of our program on and off the court,” Kerns said.

Their success at the university is evident, but now they must turn to face the next step of their lives, the next place they hope to find success. They are both K-12 physical education majors, minoring in sports science and coaching. Andrew Muse desires to follow in the footsteps of his family and start a career in coaching while Aaron Muse is not as sure of his plan as his brother is. He plans to either student teach and be an assistant coach with his older brother at Reagan High School, or go to seminary with the hope of going into ministry one day.

As the basketball season tips off, the duo looks forward to continuing their work with the App State basketball team. Aaron Muse and Andrew Muse have been, and will continue to be, an influential part of the team and the program.

Brothers Aaron Muse and Andrew Muse pose for a picture after the Mountaineers home opener against Warren Wilson Nov. 8, 2022.. Photo by Tyler Bishop.

Freshman running to historic career

Drew Bailey | Reporter

“The transition from high school to college is usually a pretty big jump, so I can really only thank my teammates for helping me out with the workouts, the easy runs and all that stuff,” Lipham said. “It is a different level here in college. The workouts are harder, they are longer, we have easy runs, everything like that. So, it is nice to have a group of guys that you can sort of, like, go out and run with.”

Despite being a freshman, Lipham has stepped into a leadership role on the team, showcasing how Lipham is seeking team accomplishments in addition to personal ones.

“Ethan Lipham has had a tremendous impact on this team and it came immediately. Within the first practices and races, it is clear that Ethan is the real deal,” said sophomore runner Garrett Bivens. “He is a leader on this team and we all look to him for advice. Being a freshman, it’s amazing to see how much of a factor he already is as our number one runner.”

Those familiar with Lipham know that his accomplishments date back to before his college career. He ran cross country and track for Berkley Preparatory School and was raised in Largo, Florida. He made the FHSAA Class 2A Track and Field State Championships for his freshman and senior year, and especially made a name for himself

his senior year, by breaking a school record.

“I focused more on the two mile earlier in the year and then I got the school record, so I kind of wanted to focus more on the mile and trying to get the mile school record,” Lipham said. “The gamble did not really pay off because I lost

in the state meet, but I think I could have won the two mile if I just raced the two mile. But it was a cool experience, and I made so many friends along the way.”

His resume led to recruitment by multiple teams coming out of high school, but the relationship between Lipham’s father and the university’s

head cross country coach Michael Curcio solidified Lipham’s spot as a Mountaineer.

“We knew about him early on in the process as a junior,” Curcio said. “We recruited his father from our camps back in the ’90s, his dad stayed closer to home at UCF but the family always traveled to ASU, and the High Country turned out to be a great fit for him.”

Curcio has spent 28 years as the head cross country coach. His coaching style has allowed Lipham to formulate some of his own workouts. Lipham feels like the freedom afforded to him has contributed to making the university a comfortable fit.

“He has been wonderful for coaching. He is sort of more hands off, which is completely fine with me,” Lipham said. “I feel, like, especially for me, I have sort of been, like, in control of my own

training for a while now.”

Despite going from running in Florida to the mountains of Boone, this change in elevation has not deterred Lipham.

“Boone is beautiful. I come from Florida, so there are no mountains or anything,” Lipham said. “So, it is nice to be able to walk outside when it is a nice 55 degrees in the morning.”

The unique environment Boone has is aiding Lipham in his pursuit of a meteorology career, despite originally being hesitant about a job in weather.

“Back in the day, I used to be pretty scared of the weather when I was a kid. One of the ways that I have found that is the best way of getting over your fears is to research them,” Lipham said. “I got super into storm chasing, and we live in Florida so we have hurricanes all the time. I got super interested into the weather and just exploring it.”

His meteoric rise has already given Lipham a resume that many runners hope to achieve across their careers. His two Sun Belt Runner of the Week Awards compare to the men’s cross country program having one award total last year. But the most coveted award in Lipham’s mind is a conference championship.

“Our biggest goal is to win conference,” Lipham said. “We are looking good right now, we just have to keep everyone healthy, keep everyone focused and I am excited for that.”

Freshman cross country runner, Ethan Lipham poses for a portrait at Moses Cone on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Photo by Hiatt Ellis.

... He’s had a tremendous impact on the team ... it is clear that Ethan is the real deal.”

- Garrett Bivens

“

Letter from the Opinion Editors: Harassing journalists is unacceptable

Ella Adams | Opinion Editor

Nadine Jallal | Associate Opinion Editor

Over the past semester, The Appalachian has seen a notable uptick in audience engagement with a 16% increase in users and a 20% increase in website sessions compared to last year. As newspapers around the country struggle to maintain their readers, it’s exciting that the Boone community is interested in student journalism. From article clicks to social media likes, readers have been engaging with our content in all sorts of ways, particularly in the comment sections. Comment

sections are an important part of the work journalists do and constructive reader feedback is welcomed by all journalists, even the critical kind. Knowing what our readers are interested in helps us stay relevant and ultimately makes us better writers.

But journalists around the world are experiencing an increasingly concerning trend: online harassment. Constructive criticism and hateful remarks are two very different things, and the two impact journalists in very different ways. We’ve all heard the saying, “don’t shoot the messenger” and after all, journalists are professional “messengers.” So why is it so accepted to harass, demean and

should never be taken lightly. Online violence directed toward journalists has seen a concerning increase. A 2019 survey by the Committee to Protect Journalists determined that 85% of journalists felt their field had become less safe over the past five years. In the same survey, 90% of American journalists said online harassment is the biggest safety concern. The vast majority of online violence is directed toward women, LGBTQ+ and BIPOC journalists. According to a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization survey, a staggering 73% of female journalists have faced online abuse. One in three have considered leaving the field because of it. PTSD, anxiety and depression afflict journalists experiencing harassment online. The opinion desk at The Appalachian is no stranger to friendly, or unfriendly, discourse from readers. To

be clear, critical or rude comments don’t classify online harassment. Targeted, degrading attacks regarding identity, intelligence and validity is. Journalists are an arm of the First Amendment, informing the public and helping to keep in check systems of power. Opinion writing adds a critical outlook on current events and encourages readers to think twice about how they experience the world. Columnists and opinion writers are prepared to receive criticism and we welcome it. Our articles serve to ignite public conversation about the issues we write about.

But calling opinion writers “ignorant,” “arrogant,” “disgustingly low,” an “entitled jackass,” “backwards,” “stupid” or “lazy” is not constructive, it is harassment. All of the aforementioned insults are excerpts from actual comments opinion writers at The Appalachian have received. These are on the rather tame side because they don’t include the various emails, messages on social media and comments that don’t make it to the website because they are simply too aggressive. Many hateful comments are often posted behind the veil of a fake name and email. Anonymity is emboldening, and it protects the identity of the commenter. Opinion writers, however, do not get to be anonymous, which invites commenters to attack the writers instead of the writing. Having readers who disagree and argue

with opinion writers’ opinions is expected and encouraged. However, once readers begin to pick out and belittle aspects of a writer’s identity and character, it becomes targeted harassment.

A recent increase in aggressive comments and online harassment has led to many newspapers reconsidering their relationship to public comments. Notable news outlets like Reuters and NPR no longer allow comments. According to research by George Mason University and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, nasty comments decreased other readers’ trust in the outlet’s content as a whole. Online harassment isn’t only affecting journalists, it’s negatively affecting the public’s relationship with the media.

Online harassment should never be taken lightly. In 2020, the U.S. Press Freedom Tracker recorded 630 incidents of journalists being physically attacked in real life. Online harassment translates to real world violence. The mental and physical health of journalists should not be compromised in favor of targeted online harassment. Harassment is not free speech. It’s violence.

Protecting the First Amendment right to a free press means protecting journalists. It’s time student journalists reckon with online harassment and have a greater conversation on what it means to be a member of the press in an increasingly online world.

Graphic by McNeil Johnston

Pumpkin spice hate is misogynistic

Nadine Jallal | Associate Opinion Editor

Pumpkin spice, the magical mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice and cloves is a staple of fall culture in the U.S. The most notable seller of pumpkin spice is Starbucks. Starbucks launched their highly popular pumpkin spice latte, coined the PSL, in 2003.

The popularity of pumpkin spice certainly did not begin with Starbucks, but can be dated back to 1934 with McCormick’s launch of the “pumpkin pie spice.” Of course, the spices that make up pumpkin spice have been used for centuries, but McCormick’s pumpkin pie spice was the first product to group the spices together and name them pumpkin spice. Since then, pumpkin spice has flourished and taken over almost every corner of the market during the fall season. If pumpkin spice has been around for all these years, why does it feel like society is ostracizing anyone who expresses joy in its flavor?

We’ve all heard of the “basic” girl stereotype, even wikiHow has a “How to Tell if a Girl Is Basic” guide. Apparently, a basic girl takes selfies, is on social media, enjoys popular music, wears oversized sweaters, leggings and Uggs, and of course, loves herself a pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks. Poking fun at girls who fit the basic girl stereotype is a trend that comes back every year, right around the

time Starbucks launches the PSL.

Girls participating in any aspect of popular culture immediately brand that trend as basic. Society condemns girls who show any interest in feminine things. When young girls began popularizing certain artists such as One Direction or Justin Bieber, the quality of their music was branded as feminine and subsequently considered subpar or basic and never taken seriously. The same pattern continues with the condemnation of things like makeup, the color pink and fruity drinks. Society does not hate these things because they are bad, they hate them because they are associated with femininity.

Media has taken society’s hate for basic girls and run with it, especially in romantic comedies. The girl who doesn’t wear makeup and hates PSLs is seen as refreshing. By the end, she scores the guy andlives happily ever after.

Hating basic girls isn’t a concept only pushed forth by men, women also further the stereotype and internalize the misogyny that comes with it. For example, in Taylor Swift’s 2008 hit “You Belong With Me,” she compares herself to her crush’s girlfriend, who is a cheer captain that wears short skirts and high heels. Her crush’s girlfriend sounds like she would enjoy a pumpkin spice latte as well. Condemning her because she likes seemingly girly things feeds into the idea that those girls are less deserving of love or respect. That separation between basic, girly-girls and girls who try their hardest to not be like them is just another way to put women down and pit them against one another.

Women should be able to enjoy things without being ridiculed and the things they enjoy shouldn’t be less worthy of praise.

If someone doesn’t enjoy a pumpkin spice latte, it doesn’t mean they are misogynistic. However, if someone finds themselves avoiding pumpkin spice lattes because of their popularity and association with femininity, then maybe they don’t hate pumpkin spice, just women.

by Giselle Gonzalez-Garcia

OPINION: Large lecture classes should be retired

Jaiden Endress | Opinion Writer

Lecture classes can hold hundreds of students. These large lecture classes can serve several purposes such as teaching higher numbers of students without the need to hire more professors. However, there are more reasons why they should be a thing of the past. In an environment with that many students, most professors do not take attendance. Generally, larger class sizes lead to disengagement, low attendance and grades, providing difficulties for students with neurodiversity or other disabilities and an out-of-date education style. Not to mention the expansion of App State, lecture classes are only scheduled to get bigger and more out of control, with over 20,000 students enrolling in fall 2022.

In IG Greer lecture halls, professors often can’t see part of their class. A lack of visual attention can lead to disengagement and disinterest, leading more and more students to flunk out of class.

Furthermore, professors usually don’t take attendance in larger classes, or have virtual attendance accessibility outside of the class. Despite the many resources created to make life easier while navigating college, they don’t help at all when many students aren’t inclined to attend class. Many lecture classes are taught with presentations that will be posted online or material straight from the textbook. With class material readily available, it’s difficult to find a reason to get up and ready to cram into a packed auditorium for an hour.

In smaller classes, it’s easier for professors to establish a connection with their students. They can address individual students and their struggles without taking away from instruction, as well as encourage students to attend lessons. Larger classes have generated a need for many resources to help professors cope with the challenges of teaching that many students at once.

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Illustration