November 17, 2011 by The Appalachian

The Appalachian

TheAppalachianOnline.com

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Vol. 86 No. 22

House Speaker visits Appalachian, talks higher ed by HANK SHELL News Editor

Margaret Cozens I The Appalachian

(L) North Carolina House of Representatives Speaker Thom Tillis responds to questions during Monday evening’s town hall meeting. The Student Government Association arranged for a town meeting with Speaker Tillis for Boone residents and Appalachian students to vocalize questions and concerns regarding the local community and North Carolina. (R) Teaching fellows junior mathematics and secondary education major Megan M. Kasper and junior secondary education and english major Dana W. Warlick stand up and thank Speaker Tillis for his work toward the Teaching Fellows Program.

orth Carolina House Speaker Thom Tillis answered questions from members of Appalachian State University and the wider community during a town hall meeting Monday at the Broyhill Inn and Conference Center. The event, cosponsored by the Student Government Association (SGA) and the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce, addressed a range of issues – but students in attendance were most concerned with higher education. Tillis (R – Mecklenberg) is head of the majority that approved the current state budget, which resulted in huge losses in state appropriations for higher education. The cuts have been a point of contention on college campuses this year and have, lately, manifested themselves in proposed tuition rises. But Tillis said education was hit

hard because it was a proportionally larger part of the budget. “North Carolina provides more funding to its university system than just about any other state and it’s going to continue to,” Tillis said in an interview after the meeting. Tillis also said tuition hikes are one way for universities to cope with cuts, but institutions should be transparent in implementing them. “I think what the universities will need to do is say, ‘If we raise tuition, how will that money be used?’ and convince the student population that it may be an okay thing to do,” he said. Tillis added that universities must manage tuition rises to keep them from rising to a “crazy level.” Though much of the meeting focused on current problems, it also zeroed in on solutions. During the meeting, a group of Teaching Fellows stood and thanked Tillis for working to reinstate the program, which was scheduled to be “phased out” in the coming year, due to the budget

decrease. “We are aware of the steps you have taken to reinstate our program and we just want to thank you for the words of encouragement you’ve given,” said junior Dana Warlick, vice president of Appalachian’s Teaching Fellows Executive Council. SGA Director of Civic Engagement Cameron Carswell played a major role in organizing the event and said she was pleased with the results. “There was a good number of students and adults here,” she said. “Regardless of party, I think it was successful in accurately representing the people who are representing us and showing that the government is not really out to get us.” Tillis was also pleased with the meeting. “The thing that I’m most thrilled about is just how civil the discourse is,” he said. “This isn’t necessarily a venue where you’re trying to convince somebody to change their political ideology, but it’s to have a respectful exchange.”

Second annual Candlelight Vigil honors victims of LGBT bullying by EMMALEE ZUPO Lifestyles Reporter

Students gathered Monday night for the LGBT Center’s second annual Community Candlelight Vigil, which honors the memory of teens who’ve committed suicide as the result of LGBT-related bullying. This year’s vigil was held in honor of Jamey Rodemeyer, 14, of Williamsville, N.Y. and Jamie Hubley, 15, of Ottawa, Canada. Both of their deaths were attributed to bullying and harassment. “I think we’re here tonight because being part of our community can be difficult. It can be challenging. I think it’s important to acknowledge that,” speaker Nathan Belyeu said. Belyeu is a 2008 Appalachian alumnus and is currently senior education manager for the Trevor Project, a national organization that focuses on crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBT youth. “Those of us that are part of that community can attest that there are also wonderful things about being a part of that community,” Belyeu said during his speech. “There’s a certain strength that we gain from our experience.” On display at the vigil was a list of seven gay teens who recently committed suicide: Justin Aaberg, Raymond Chase, Seth Walsh, Asher Brown, Billy Lucas, Tyler Clementi and Zach Harrington. None of them were older than 19. The vigil also hosted a variety of speakers, including Mayor Loretta Clawson, Dean of Students J.J. Brown, Rev. Shelley Wilson of Boone’s United Church of Christ and several others. Participating campus organizations included the Jewish student ministry Hillel and the all-female a capella group Ear Candy. International graduate student Swathi Priya presented a Hindu blessing and song. Those planning the vigil attempted to include different religious and ethnic traditions in the vigil, committee member William Post said. “I thought it showed that we want to reach out to everyone – no matter your religion, no matter your race – and that we’re always here to support all ethnicities and

Olivia Wilkes I The Appalachian

Students gather during the Community Candlelight Vigil Monday night on Sanford Mall. The vigil, sponsored by the LGBT Center, included guest speakers Mayor Loretta Clawson and Dean of Students J.J. Brown.

all religions,” said Post, a freshman psychology major. The vigil also attempted to provide real and personal portrayals of Rodemeyer and Hubley, event volunteer Jay Burnett said. “I think it was really important to know that these were people who lived and loved and had fun and friends, just like all of us,” said Burnett, who is a junior studio art major. “It’s really important for people to be able to put a certain humanity to these people so it’s not just ‘another

gay teen dead.’” Mark Rasdorf, the LGBT Center graduate assistant who created the event last year, ended the vigil with a quote from Leo Buscaglia, an author and professor from the University of Southern California: “Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment or the smallest act of caring, all of which have potential to turn a life around.”

App alum, Trevor Project staffer recalls journey to acceptance

Former student is leader of national non-profit for LGBT suicide prevention, started processs of coming out at ASU by MEGHAN FRICK Associate Editor, Editorial Content

Appalachian State University welcomed back one of its own Monday - a man who started one of the most important journeys of his life in Boone. Nathan Belyeu, a 2008 Appalachian alumnus, is the senior education manager at the Trevor Project, a national nonprofit focusing on crisis intervention and suicide prevention for LGBT youth. He was a keynote speaker at Monday’s Community Candlelight Vigil, which honored the lives of LGBT teens who fell victim to bullying and harassment. Belyeu said he started the process of coming out during his time at Appalachian. “I was never fully out at App, but I told good friends who have remained my good friends for all of these years now,” he said.

“I started to be comfortable with who I was here. I look at this as the place where it all began.” It wasn’t always easy, Belyeu said. He was often afraid and he didn’t initially find much acceptance among his family. Those experiences led him to a career he didn’t initially expect. He majored in communication disorders at Appalachian, but knew by the time he got to graduate school at UNC-Greensboro (UNCG) that he wanted to work with LGBT youth. “A lot of times, when a person comes out it changes everything about the way you view yourself, the way you view the world,” he said. “I was on one specific career path and then when I came out I was like, ‘Is that really what I want to do with my life?’” Belyeu started working as the coordinator for LGBT health at UNCG. As graduation drew nearer, he applied for a position with

the Trevor Project, a group that was quickly gaining national prominence. “I was shocked that I got it,” he said. “I was like, ‘Really? Really?’” Today, Belyeu manages speaking, outreach, curriculum and development for the nonprofit. During his visit to Appalachian Monday, he spoke with groups across campus including RAs, LGBT Center volunteers and faculty members - in addition to his talk at the vigil. Sophomore exercise science major Taylor Bailey attended both the LGBT Center lunch and the RA dinner and immediately noticed Belyeu’s presence. “His personality was one of those that would light up a room,” Bailey said. Ultimately, Belyeu hoped to leave Appalachian with the desire to become a community where everyone is accepted and

welcomed to grow. “Even if it’s something you don’t understand - someone being LGBT - or something you don’t agree with, understand that the person across from you is a person,” he said. “We want everyone, all students at Appalachian State, to feel supported, to feel that they’re encouraged to be who they really are and to be the best that they are. I think that’s a real foundation of this institution.” In keeping with the mission of the Trevor Project, Belyeu reminded students that sometimes, all it takes is being there to listen. “I look back on my own life and what helped see me through some really difficult times was those few people, those few friends,” he said. “Sometimes you think, what can one person really do? But one person can do everything. All it takes is one person to be there for you.”

AppalCART Silver Route may decrease frequent crowding on Pop 105 by HANK SHELL News Editor

by ABBI PITTMAN Intern News Reporter

A new AppalCART route could bring further support to students living along the Pop 105 route, university officials said Tuesday. The proposed Silver Route would run the Pop 105 Route in reverse. “The Silver Route has not really been announced,” Parking and Traffic Director Barry Sauls said. “It is in the planning stages and the details of it are really only known here on campus.” Buses are often filled completely before reaching stops beyond

University Highlands, leaving students like Student Body President Lauren Estes behind. “With the Silver Route running a reverse of the current Pop 105’s route, students who are on the campus side of Highlands, like myself this year, will not be passed by a bus that is already filled to capacity,” Estes said. “The student government is working on a piece of legislation in support of the addition of the Silver Route, and we are excited to see our student fees going to something that will so greatly benefit the student body.” Currently, there are three buses running the Pop 105 route, but Sauls said it’s not enough.

“Even with three buses running the route full-time, there are still capacity problems at certain times of the day,” Sauls said. “Running the route in reverse will also allow us to address an issue with the Studio West Apartments on Highway 105.” Sauls said students at Studio West would not have to cross 105 to reach the current bus stop, which is being temporarily addressed by a pedestrian walkway, installed by the N. C. Department of Transportation. Graduate student Crystal Ford lives at Studio West. “A lot of people don’t actually stop through the cross walk,” Ford said. “I’ve almost actually been hit

by someone, honestly, so it would be great if an AppalCART bus could actually run right by our drive instead of making us take the chance of going to the crosswalk with people being in a hurry, rushing around.” Ford, who is currently studying college student development, also said the new route would make her long bus trip to campus much shorter. Other changes to the current routes would include transferring the Caldwell Community College stop from Pop 105 to the Silver Route, further alleviating current overcrowding problems. “The increased capacity should definitely benefit the students

along the route,” he said. The route would still serve University Highlands. If approved, AppalCART will purchase a new bus for the route, bringing its total share of the cost to $145,000, though Sauls said the price could be lower or higher depending on the funding appropriations received from state and federal transit authorities. The route is currently in a planning stage, and is awaiting approval from the university Fee Committee as part of the Transportation Fee proposal. The Chancellor and the Board of Trustees must then approve it. If approved, the route will be operational in August 2012.

News

• November 17, 2011

Zimride promotes ride-sharing through social networking site

by CATHERINE HAITHCOCK News Reporter

The Department of Sustainability recently “soft launched” a new ride sharing program, called Zimride, to students. The program is part of a campus-wide sustainable transportation initiative that includes a reexamination of bicycling and AppalCART. “Zimride is social networking ride sharing,” said Danielle Adams, a graduate political science student involved with the initiative. “It is our own private network that enables the campus community to connect with each other, be it commuting back and forth together each week or finding and sharing seats in your car on trips home or to other events.” Students can sign up for the program through their Appalnet account and users can post rides as either a driver or a passenger. Although Zimride suggests prices, users are free to choose how much they need for a seat in their car or how much they are willing to pay for a ride. “If I go home to Durham, it takes about $40 to fill up my car,” Adams said. “It takes about half a tank to get there, so I charge $10 per rider. You’re sharing the ride, so you’re sharing the cost as well.” Zimride lets users include preferences for music, smoking and the number of passengers. Adams said it can turn into a

way to meet new people. “I actually got introduced to dubstep by one of my first riders,” she said. “I had another rider who plays a banjo and it was really cool to talk to her about music festivals and the type of music she liked.” Adams, along with the Department of Sustainability and the Department of Parking and Transportation, started work on the Zimride initiative in February. Since its soft launch in August, the program has attracted the attention of around 802 users. “We use EPA [Environmental Protection Agency] estimates to gauge how much we are saving and there are huge reductions in the number of miles and the amount of gas we are saving,” Adams said. “We have people posting rides all the way down to Orlando, Fla.” In conjunction with Zimride, many other sustainable initiatives are underway, including a contract with U-Haul to make two Prius vehicles and a Ford Focus available for student use, said Crystal Simmons, university sustainability specialist. Most initiatives, including the U-Haul contract and the full launch of Zimride, should be completed by the end of the month, Simmons said. “What we hope for is to give students an avenue to connect with other students that have similar destinations so we don’t have cars going from point A to point B with only one person,” said Barry Sauls, director of parking and transportation.

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Town Council votes to approve new Watauga High School wind turbine, facilitated by ASU grad students

Hank Shell I The Appalachian

(L - R) Town Council members Stephen Phillips, Jamie Leigh, Lynne Mason, Andy Ball and Rennie Brantz raise their hands in approval of new wind turbine on Watauga High School’s property as Mayor Loretta Clawson (center) oversees the meeting. The new turbine will be used as a learning tool for high school students as well as members of Appalachian’s wind office and technology department.

by MIKE RUTLEDGE

CruisingXtreme

The Appalachian

Intern News Reporter

Things are blowing in the right direction for Appalachian State University graduate students working to bring a wind turbine to Watauga High School. The Boone Town Council voted unanimously Tuesday night to approve an amendment to the high school’s site plan. The group will be issued a special use permit for a Skystream Turbine that will generate 2.4 kilowatts of power for the school. “This is a great example of a small scale community wind project,” Town Council member Andy Ball said in a preceding statement. “It’s a public site and will be an edu-

cational site for years to come.” Ball followed by issuing a motion to approve the request, pointing out that approval of the request fit reasonably into the public interest and supported the alternative energies supported by the Boone 2030 Land Use Plan. Council member Lynne Mason emphasized the town’s support for the project. “There has been 99 percent support, with one person being indifferent,” Mason said. “From that perspective, we have the support from members in the adjacent neighborhood.” The project should continue as scheduled now that approval has been secured.

“If we can get the permit smoothly, it will be [started] right after Thanksgiving break,” said Dave French, Appalachian alumnus and project coordinator. The project’s supporters will hold a public event when the turbine is installed and raised, French said. In addition to being a learning tool for Watauga High, the wind turbine will benefit Appalachian students, French said. “Our wind office will have the opportunity to help the teachers along with using it as a learning tool,” he said. “The technology department will have the benefit of having another turbine nearby to enhance the university education.”

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gleek life Music-loving students vie for spots on second run of Oxygen’s ‘Glee Project’

by MEGAN WRAPPE

Intern Lifestyles Reporter

ince it debuted with the opening chords of “Don’t Stop Believing” in 2009, “Glee” has been busy spreading its message of chasing your dreams despite adversity. Now its spinoff competition, “The Glee Project,” will give four Appalachian State University students the opportunity to live out their dreams. Junior music therapy major Freddy Perkins, sophomore cellular microbiology major CiCi Kromah, freshman music industry studies and Spanish major Cam Haas and sophomore music education major Cara Lynne Medicus are all auditioning for the show. “I decided to audition because I have loved “Glee” since the very beginning,” Medicus said. “When I watched season one of “The Glee Project,” I realized that if those contestants had a chance at their

dreams, then I did too.” “The Glee Project” is comparable to other singing competitions like “American Idol” and “The Voice” – but the final prize is a sevenepisode recurring arc on “Glee.” Participants can submit a videorecorded performance and can attend live auditions in several major cities. Contenders who submit a video select one song from a list of eight and post their videos on thegleeprojectcasting.com. “My audition was very spur of the moment,” Perkins said. “I went home and had nothing to do, then I just decided to make the video.” Videos entered in the competition are open to likes and comments. But “Glee” officials haven’t stated whether likes, views and comments are part of the scoring process. “My video got around 700 views, which isn’t as much as some of the others, but that’s not the only thing they look at,” Kromah said. In the competition’s previous

Freddy Perkins

Cam Haas

November 17, 2011 • Hometown: Durham, N.C. ASU Music Group: Enharmonic Audition Song: “Ordinary People” by John Legend Video Link: thegleeproject casting.com/ auditions/view/59803

Hometown: Charlotte ASU Music Groups: University Singers, Ear Candy, Gospel Choir Audition Song: “Edge of Glory” by Lady Gaga Video Link: thegleeproject casting.com/ auditions/view/308678

Hometown: Boone ASU Music Group: Enharmonic Audition Song: “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz Video link: thegleeproject casting.com/ auditions/view/6203034

Hometown: Shelby ASU Music Group: Blue Ridge Saxophone Quartet Audition Song: “Ordinary People” by John Legend Video link: thegleeproject casting.com/ auditions/view/4386411

season, over 4,000 videos were submitted. “Glee” creator Ryan Murphy was part of a group that narrowed entries to 80, then 12 contestants were chosen to move to Los Angeles as part of show’s first cast. Two participants, Samuel Larsen and Damian McGinty, went on to win the competition. McGinty has since made his debut on Glee,

playing an Irish exchange student named Rory. The second season of “The Glee Project” will likely follow a similar format. And for students competing, that’ll mean deciding whether to take time off from school. “I talked with my parents about what I would do about school if a professional singing opportunity

CiCi Kromah

Caralynne Medicus

ever came up when I tried out for ‘American Idol,’” Haas said. “We decided that if an opportunity ever came up where I would have to leave, then I would do that and come back and finish school later. Sunday was the final day to post auditions for the upcoming season. Contestants selected to move on to the second round will be notified in the coming weeks.

Students choose, cut Christmas trees Transgender Day of Remembrance set for Monday by RYAN NAGY

Senior Lifestyles Reporter

A huge economic boon for the High Country will gear up in the coming weeks – it’s choose and cut season. In Watauga and Avery County, Christmas trees are big business. “There’s no question about it,” said Dan Meyer, president of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. “The choose and cut process brings families up here to select a tree, but they generally will go on to dine in our restaurants, stay in our hotels and even go shopping in the local stores.” One choose and cut farm, Blowing Rock’s Appalachian Evergreens, will open up its facilities this weekend for students and families ready to choose the perfect tree for their homes. Owner Chris Wilcox said the choose and cut process is his favorite part of selling trees. “People come with their families to pick out their own tree and they’re typically in a good mood,” Wilcox said. “They bring their kids and their

dogs and we take their picture with their tree.” But the Christmas tree business is not just a family affair. Wilcox said Appalachian State University students are in a unique situation, living in the mountains where a huge number of holiday trees are grown. Senior journalism major Garrett Davis said he and his family picked their Christmas tree together for the first time last year. They plan to do so again after Thanksgiving. “It was by far the best tree we’ve ever had in our house,” Davis said. “It looked better, lasted longer and it seemed like we could smell it from every room. I remember putting the tree up and there was still snow on it. That’s when we knew we had made the right decision.” But there are downsides to the High Country’s choose and cut empire. Wilcox said he doesn’t enjoy the business as much as he used to because of over-supply in the market. There are now over 20 Christmas tree suppliers in the region, compared to

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eight or nine when he took over the company. Prices at Appalachian Evergreens are decreasing, Wilcox said, while expenses have mostly stayed the same or gone up. The artificial Christmas tree is also taking over a portion of the market, Wilcox said. Appalachian alumnus Sean Leary said he buys artificial because it is more practical. “It’s a practicality standpoint,” Leary said. “They are not as much of a fire hazard, they last longer, they’re easier to maintain and are generally cheaper in the long run.” Leary said the only thing he misses about real trees is the smell. Wilcox said that holiday aroma is one of the main reasons his mailorder business is growing. “Our wreath business has grown because when people open that box, the smell is the first thing that they get,” he said. “It just hits you.” For more information on choose and cut farms in the High Country, visit ncchristmastrees.com.

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by HALEY CAHILL

Intern Lifestyles Reporter

The LGBT Center and TRANSaction will honor lives lost due to transphobia and transgender hate crimes at the Transgender Day of Remembrance Monday, from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. in Plemmons Student Union’s Whitewater Café. “Our trans community probably faces some of the most harsh discrimination,” said Mark Rasdorf, LGBT Center graduate assistant and clinical mental health graduate student. “For a lot of people, the first step is understanding before they can reach acceptance. It’s a very moving struggle to me – the struggle of acceptance.” Caroline Noel, senior anthropology major and TRANSaction president said she hopes others will think about why individuals are hated and harmed just for being transgendered. “There are transgendered people here,” Noel said. “They are in our student body, they’re in your community, they are your friend. You don’t want the same violence that’s happening to these other people to happen to people on your own campus – your own friends.” LGBT Center volunteer Jay Burnett hopes the event will emphasize the “T” in “LGBT.” “Education is probably the strongest thing the center has to offer, other than a safe place,” said Burnett, who is a junior studio art major. The event will include a series of personal stories from transgendered students, along with a reading of a list of names of transgendered individuals who have been murdered. Burnett hopes the event broadens horizons for those in attendance. “I think it gives people a better sense of compassion when they learn about people who go through lives and paths other than their own,” he said. “It’s important to learn about the struggles certain groups of people have had to go through, just to live and feel safe just like normal people do.” TRANSaction is a student club that meets Thursdays at 6:15 p.m. in Plemmons Student Union’s New River Room. For more information, contact Noel at noelce@ appstate.edu or advisor Suzette Patterson at pattersnsl@ appstate.edu.

Santa’s Toy Box sets up collection tree in ASU student union by CASEY SUGLIA

Intern Lifestyles Reporter

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Students will be able to give to local nonprofit Santa’s Toy Box this year, through an on-campus collection tree sponsored by the Appalachian Popular Programming Society (APPS). Santa’s Toy Box is a gift-giving organization founded by Deerfield United Methodist Church in 1986. The group works together to collect donations and offer free holiday gift shopping for Watauga County families in need. “Last year we helped about 460 families, with a total of 917 kids,” co-chair Gene Swift said. Appalachian State University serves as a collection site – students can donate gifts at the tree on Plemmons Student Union’s first floor, across from the information desk. “We put various angel ornaments on a tree and just put different ages and stuff on them so you know who to shop for,” said Jana Vise, assistant director of student programming. To donate, students can choose an ornament based on one of four age groups: infant to three years, four to six years, seven to nine years, 10 to 12 years and 13 to 15 years. Next, donors should simply buy a present suited for that age group and leave it unwrapped in the box beside the tree by Wednesday, Dec. 9. Swift said it’s important for students to get involved with Santa’s Toy Box. “Students are going to be involved in the community, so it’s a good way for them to give back,” he said. Vise said it’s important for students to remember what the season is really about. “You know, during the holidays, people get wrapped up in the ‘me, me, me,’ ‘what am I going to get for Christmas’ and things like that,” she said. “I think it needs to be more than just about getting gifts at Christmas. It’s about your family, your friends and your community.”

44 •• November 17, 2011 November 17 , 2011

ppalachian

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.

SDR helps you with involvement

Each student at Appalachian State University has an official co-curricular transcript. Involvement, leadership positions, on-campus employment, awards, leadership programs etc. can be listed on the transcript. Visit www.sdr.appstate.edu to see what your options are for involvement. Start building your experiences today.

Need help getting involved?

The Center for Student Involvement and Leadership is available for advising appointments. Schedule a time today to talk with a professional in the office to determine your best plan of action. Get out, meet people and make a difference. Call 262-6252, or visit the CSIL website at www.csil.appstate. edu, drop by Room #219 for more information.

Visiting Writers sets schedule

The Hughlene Bostian Frank Visiting Writers Series is named in honor of Hughlene Bostian Frank, class of 1968, trustee and generous supporter of Appalachian State University. Admission to all events is free. For further information on the Fall season, call 262-2871 or see www. visitingwriters.appstate.edu. To receive Appalachian’s “This Week in the Arts” announcements by email, please contact arts-events@appstate.edu. Writers scheduled are: Novelist Mary Doria Russell, “The Sparrow,” “A Thread of Grace,” and “Doc,” will speak at 7:30 p.m. Thursday in the Table Rock Room of Plemmons Student Union. A Craft Talk: Writing Historical Fiction will be held from 3:30 until 4:45 p.m. in the Table Rock Room.

2011 Counseling Center groups

Understanding Self and Others Group: Issues commonly addressed vary from depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, self-esteem, issues of family conflict or abuse, etc. Students who want to resolve specific concerns as well as those seeking personal growth are welcome. This can be a good time to get peers’ perspectives on various issues, and to recognize that you are not alone. Four groups are available: Mondays 1:00-2:30; Tuesdays 2:00-3:30; Tuesdays 2-3:30 (Freshmen/Transfer Students only) Tuesdays 3:30-5:00; Wednesdays 3:00-4:30.

Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual Therapy Group: This group will present an opportunity for gay, lesbian, and bisexual individuals to explore life challenges. It will provide a safe environment in which to address a variety of issues (e.g., coming out, spirituality, family relationships, depression, selfesteem, abuse, etc.). Goals of the group include: reducing isolation, finding support and making changes. Two groups are available: Time/Day to be determined (Contact Carol O’Saben or Sheri Clark: 262-3180 or osabencl@appstate. edu or clarksl@appstate.edu).

Painful Pasts, Promising Futures Group: This group is designed for those who have experienced traumatic events in their lives or who come from backgrounds in which they did not feel safe. Members will learn how their past experiences and their biology are affecting their lives now. More importantly, they will learn what to do about it! Members will learn important insights about their patterns in relationships and skills to better manage their emotions and relationships. Thursdays 3:30-5:00. (Contact Amber Lyda for more information: lydaam@appstate.edu). Transgender Therapy Group: This group is similar to the “Understanding Self and Others” group in that a variety of issues will be explored in a safe and supportive environment. Some of the issues will be unique to gender-variant students. Goals of the group include: reducing isolation, finding support and making changes. Time/Day to be determined (Contact Sheri Clark for more information: 262-3180 or clarksl@appstate.edu).

WISE Women, Image, & Self Esteem: This group is designed for any woman interested in changing how she values herself. If you’d like to feel better about yourself and less controlled by appearance, food and what others think, this group may be for you. Thursdays 1-2:30 p.m. (Contact Denise Lovin: 262-3180 or lovindm@appstate.edu).

An Introduction to Mindfulness Group: Mindfulness involves stepping out of “auto-pilot” reactions and learning to pay more attention to our present experiences. Activities in this group will help participants cultivate a mindful approach to their lives, which can decrease stress, create emotional balance, and allow a person to take actions more in line with their values. Thursdays 3:30-5:00 (Contact Chris Hogan: 262-3180 or hogancj@appstate.edu). To get started with a Counseling Center group, come to the Counseling Center during Walk-In Clinic, call 262-3180 or visit the website for more information at www.counseling. appstate.edu. If you are interested in group but these times do not work for you, please get in touch with Chris Carden at 262-3180 or cardendc@appstate.edu.

Career resources available at ASU

Come explore the resources on campus here to assist you with your career planning and job searching needs. Is choosing a major causing you stress? The Peer Career Center can help! Choosing a major is one of the many decisions you will have to make during your college career. Do not take it lightly. The average person spends 86,000 hours working in his/her lifetime. How many hours are you going to spend choosing your career? We offer assistance in finding a major and career that matches your interests, abilities, values and experiences. Call 262-2029 to schedule an appointment or drop by our office located on the 2nd floor of the Student Union, beside McAllister’s Deli. Visit us at www.peercareer. appstate.edu. The Career Development Center offers many resources to assist you in your job and internship search skills. Career Counselors will help you build a professional resume, cover letter, and help develop your interviewing skills. Students can utilize Career Gear, (careergear.appstate.edu), our new and improved career management system, to schedule career counseling appointments, post resumes, search for jobs and internships, sign up for on campus interviews, research employers, identify employer mentors and stay up to date with career center events and fairs. Learn about all of the great resources in the CDC at careers.appstate.edu.

Free, confidential legal advice

A licensed attorney is available to answer your questions, provide advice, and make referrals. This service is offered free of charge to any Appalachian State University student. Contact the Student Legal Clinic if you have a traffic ticket, a minor criminal charge, a question about your lease or the conditions in your off-campus apartment -- or any other issue or problem that you need legal help with. The Student Legal Clinis is located in Room 221of the Plemmons

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Student Union. Call (828) 262-2704 for an appointment. It’s fast and easy! Appointments can usually be scheduled within a few days.

Financial Aid questions?

Parents and students with financial aid questions are encouraged to visit our website at financialaid.appstate.edu and their AppalNet account. The Office of Student Financial Aid is open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., except for University observed holidays.

Find Yosef A Holiday!

It’s almost time to Find Yosef A Holiday! The Office of Multicultural Student Development invites you to once again join in celebrating the many cultural traditions that are observed around the world during the winter season. To sign up as a holiday sponsor, please complete and submit the registration form by Friday. Go to http://multicultural.appstate.edu/ events-programs/multicultural-events/find-yosef-holiday-fair to find the registration form. Classes, clubs, athletic teams, offices, and departments are all eligible and invited to submit forms. This can be an excellent way to enhance multicultural awareness or inspire those in your lives to spread their holiday cheer with others. The Find Yosef a Holiday Festival is Dec. 2 in the Blue Ridge Ballroom of Plemmons Student Union, 5-7 p.m.

Run the Gobbler!

“Run the Gobbler, Eat the Cobbler!” What: ACT’s first annual 5K, The Gobbler. Runners and walkers welcome! All money raised will benefit ACT’s scholarship for international service-learning in honor of Leigh Lane Edwards. After the race, fresh cobbler will be available for all runners and spectators! The Gobbler will be the last event for Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week. When: The race will begin at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday. Day-of registration will begin at 7 a.m. Once the race is completed, wipe your sweat away and enjoy fresh cobbler on Duck Pond Field! Where: The Gobbler will begin and end at Duck Pond Field on Stadium Drive. Register online today at http://thegobblerboone. wordpress.com/registration/. Questions can be directed to Emily Brown at brownei@appstate.edu.

Get ready for 2012 fall housing

Did you know that most students begin considering their options NOW for Fall 2012 housing? In order to get your preferences (location, cost, roommates, amenities, etc.) you should begin now, too. University Housing, the Office of OffCampus Community Relations, and the Student Legal Clinic have partnered to help explain the process and timeline by offering a 60-minute program called “Find Your Match!” to walk students through the process of exploring housing options and securing housing for Fall 2012. The program will include issues related to both on- and off-campus housing, including timelines and procedures for obtaining housing, cost, location, utilities, contracts, roommate choices, etc. To register for “Find Your Match,” go to www.offcampus. appstate.edu. All programs take place in the Watauga River Room in Plemmons Student Union, from Noon to 1 p.m. on the following dates: Nov. 15, 17, 29, Dec. 1, Jan. 18, 19, 23, 24, Feb. 1 and 3. For more information about on-campus housing, contact University Housing at 828-2626111 or visit housing.appstate.edu. For more information about off-campus housing resources, contact the Office of Off-Campus Community Relations at 828-262-8284 or visit offcampus.appstate.edu.

18 Days of Giving begins at ASU

The National Society of Scabbard and Blade and the Department of Military Science and Leadership is sponsoring the non-perishable food drive, 18 Days of Giving through Friday at Appalachian State University. All canned, boxed, or sealed non-perishable food items will be appreciated. All items donated benefit the Hospitality House of Boone. The small act of giving one item will go to help a family in need this holiday seson. Specialty items needed include: green beans, peanut butter, syrup, jelly or jam, salad dressing, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, sugar, flour, corn muffin mix, chicken stock, basic spices (pepper, garlic pepper, etc.), powdered creamer, children’s snacks. Please call 828-262-2996 for questions, comments or large donations. Clearly marked collection boxes will be located in many commonly used buildings across campus through Friday. If you would like to sponsor a box for your department or area, please contact the above number to make arrangements for delivery.

Plemmons nominations sought

The W. H. Plemmons Leadership Medallion, named in honor of Dr. William H. Plemmons who served as the second president of the University from 1955 to 1969, was established by an action of the Appalachian State University Board of Trustees in 1996. The award was created to recognize the time, energy, skills, and commitment of students, faculty, student development educators and staff who exceed their peers in providing leadership that enriches the quality of student life and advances the education of students. Students and university employees are invited to nominate a student or university employee for this award. Nominations may be made in the following categories: A student leader who has provided distinguished leadership above that of other student leaders; a Student Development Educator within the Division of Student Development for meritorious leadership in his or her work to enrich the quality of student life and learning; a member of the faculty who has provided meritorious leadership through his or her work with student clubs or organizations, or work that enriches the quality of student life and learning outside the classroom; and an employee of Appalachian State University who has provided meritorious leadership that has significantly enriched the quality of student life and learning outside of the classroom. The process for selecting recipients will be as follows: A seven person committee appointed by the Chancellor will solicit and review nominations and recommend recipients of the W. H. Plemmons Leadership Medallion to the Chancellor who will submit the recommendations to the Board of Trustees for their review and approval; the committee will screen the nominations and seek relevant supporting information concerning nominees chosen for further consideration; this process will take place annually and leadership medallions will be awarded during the Fall Semester Convocation. It is understood that the medallion is intended to recognize meritorious leadership and may not be awarded each year; nominations for this award will be accepted through Wednesday, Dec. 14, by the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Development. Nominations should be submitted electronically by using this link http://plemmonsmedallion. appstate.edu/index.php?module=plm. For additional information, please contact Dino DiBernardi, Chair of the W. H.

Plemmons Medallion Committee, at 262-2060 or visit our website at www.plemmonsmedallion.appstate.edu.

Window on Wales adventure set

Window on Wales: Service. Adventure. Sustainability. is a 35-day human-powered adventure explores the least visited country in Great Britain--Wales! You will hike, backpack, and sea kayak through rugged terrain of the Welsh backcountry; tour the Center for Alternative Technologies; visit towns and cities of the Welsh frontcountry; share a week with Welsh farming families in homestays; gain 16 new friends; and so much more! All majors are welcome and class credit ranges from 1-6 hrs. Visit www/op.appstate.edu/wales for more information. An information session will be held in Outdoor Programs in the SRC on Nov. 29 at 6:30 p.m. Trip registraction is Nov. 30 at 7 p.m. Pick up an application packet at an information session.

Suicide Survivors Day Saturday

The Counseling Center presents International Survivors of Suicide Day on Saturday. Thousands of survivors of suicide loss gather around the world on this day for mutual support and practical guidance on coping with grief. If you have lost someone to suicide, join us in the Calloway Peak Room of Plemmons Student Union from 1-2:30 p.m. Admission is free. Pre-register at lovindm@appstate.edu. Walk-ins are welcome, but pre-registering appreciated.

Summer in Spain for ASU credit

ASU Summer in Spain is seeking applicants for its 2012 Program. Enjoy Madrid, one of the most vibrant European cities, while studying the Spanish language and culture. Travel throughout Spain from May 29 to June 28, and earn 6 ASU credits. It is time to think about Summer! It is not to early too join us! The program includes a wide range of activities for students to explore the contrasts of the country and its cultures with the support of Spanish host families, ASU and local professors. We offer morning classes, organized and individual evenings activities, day and weekend trips (Toledo, Segovia, Córdoba…), an extensive excursion to northern mountainous region of León… Came to an information meeting at 6 p.m. Dec. 6, in Room 505 Sanford Hall. For details go to international.appstate.edu/education/ aoep/Spain_DFLL_S12 or contact Dr. Benito del Pliego at delpliegob@appstate.edu; (828) 262 2306; office 525, Sanford Hall.

ASU offers Cuba for students

It’s been an on and off again experience, depending on the political winds blowing from the nation’s capital, but Cuba provides a rich educational experience for Appalachian State University students interested in topics ranging from U.S-Cuban relations and cultural history to photography and printmaking. The most recent venture to the communist nation was a week-long program in October offered to MBA students in Appalachian’s Walker College of Business that focused on sustainability and the effects of the U.S. embargo in Cuba. Students attended lectures at the University of Havana and the University of Pinar del Rio. The short-term study abroad program was possible following action by the Obama Administration in January that reinstated People-to-People Educational Exchanges. It was the first study-abroad trip offered by the university since 2004 when travel permits for short-term educational programs were cancelled by the Bush Administration. Dr. David Marlett, chair of the Department of Finance, Banking and Insurance at Appalachian, was one of several faculty members who traveled to Cuba. “Professionally, the trip offered a chance to learn how a country with little resources and an immense exposure to hurricane damage functions,” he said. Marlett said that private sector insurance probably won’t become an option in Cuba should the U.S. embargo end and insurance markets open to foreign companies as “most dwellings are in such disrepair they would not be insurable by the private sector.” Educational opportunities in Cuba first began at Appalachian in 2001 with a Department of History summer study abroad program that focused on U.S., Cuban and Latin American relations. The success of that program and the contacts made with educators at the University of Havana and elsewhere led to a technical photography program offered through the Department of Technology and Environmental Design. It ran in 2002 to 2004. Appalachian also hosted two Cuban artists for a semester in 2004 from La Fototeca. With reinstatement of the short-term educational permits, Appalachian photography instructor Lambert “Pac” McLaurin will lead a two-week study abroad program for photography students in late December and early January 2012. Students will meet and work with prominent Cuban photographers and attend workshops at La Fototeca, Cuba’s national photography archive. “I think that the experience introduces students to a place that is both unknown and foreboding and also teaches them not to judge people by the place they live or how they dress,” McLaurin said. “Learning to approach people in a strange place, not speaking their language, and getting permission to photograph them can be stressful. It certainly makes the student photographer mature. Cuba and Havana have to be among the most photogenic locations in our hemisphere. I hear from students several years after the trips that they considered it a life-changing experience.” Student Bradley K. Oxford’s perspective of the Walker College Business’ trip is similar to that of past students who have traveled to the Caribbean country. “The best part of our trip was the warmth and hospitality of the Cuban people. People from our hotel receptionists, to waiters, to people on the street all asked if we enjoyed Cuba, if we were well fed and if everyone had treated us well. We experienced the rich history of Havana and the beauty of the Cuban country side. Every day was an adventure,” the MBA student wrote. Dr. Renee Scherlen from the Department of Government and Justice Studies also is planning a short-term study abroad program in May 2012 focusing on comparative politics and contemporary Cuba. The program is still recruiting students. “The relationship with Cuba as it stands is going to change eventually,” Meznar said. “If our students are familiar with Cuba, they will be a step ahead of everybody else when that change starts occurring.”

Opinion

Looking for a new take on men’s fashion? Check out new blog entries from “Fashionably Broke in Boone” at TheAppalachianOnline.com

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The Appalachian your student

newspaper since 1934

JUSTIN HERBERGER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

HANNAH POMPHREY

MEGHAN FRICK

ASSOCIATE EDITOR, ONLINE OPERATIONS

ASSOCIATE EDITOR, EDITORIAL CONTENT

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ZACH DRECHSLER

University’s transgendered students need more options

MICHAEL BRAGG

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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

Staff Opinion

NEWS EDITOR

MULTIMEDIA EDITOR

November 17, 2011 •

Kelli Straka Deciding which restroom to visit shouldn’t feel like solving a conundrum. But when restaurants try to be cute and use terms like “Senora,” “Sheila,” even “Lass,” instead of “women,” – I’ll admit, it gets confusing. I don’t want to stand outside the restroom having a heated debate with myself about whether I’m a bull or a cow, waiting for someone to come out of the restroom so I know which one I’m supposed to use. But I feel like this is what it’s like for many transgendered people. The world usually offers two choices – but what if you feel you don’t fit into either

category? Last week, I sat in a meeting for TransACTION, a club geared toward educating the campus and community about transgender issues. I was awakened to another world. It’s a world I honestly never even thought about and that makes me really disappointed with myself. Some individuals shared stories about others calling them by the wrong pronoun and parents shooing their children away from them. The overall feeling among those attending the meeting: they just don’t feel accepted by most people. That’s why Appalachian State University should move toward making the campus more transgenderfriendly – especially in terms of housing. At Iowa’s Grinnell College, students can share a dorm room, bathroom or locker room regardless of gender, USA TODAY reported in November.

This housing switch was motivated by the concerns of the school’s transgender students. I’ll be honest – while the advancement toward acceptance is refreshing, it’s a little intimidating to imagine entire dorms without a gender structure. But I’m all for one of the motions TransACTION has in the planning phase: the creation of a genderneutral Residential Learning Community (RLC). “That’s the goal – making gender a nonissue among those people,” TransACTION President Caroline Noel said. “You’re just living. You’re not worrying about the other person knowing your gender and knowing your gender is different from them.” In the meantime, University Housing is working to create more options for transgender students – a move I fully support.

They’re altering the housing application to offer a more encompassing range of choices – not just “male,” “female” and “transgender,” said Stacy Sears, associate director of housing and residence life. “We’re trying to make that population of students feel more comfortable and know that their housing needs can be met,” Sears said. This move by housing is essential – because some individuals don’t identify with any gender, or with the term “transgender,” Noel said. Like the bathroom metaphor, no student should have to settle for a term they don’t feel applies to them. That’s why Appalachian should continue working diligently to accommodate transgendered students.

Straka, a sophomore journalism major from Hickory, is a senior news reporter.

Editorial Cartoon

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.

This is not very helpful . . .

Letters Students’ petition against Soucek’s appearance ‘completely out of line’ With regards to the article in Tuesday’s paper on a petition not to accept our State Senator Dan Soucek to speak at a Veteran’s Day event on campus: Ayla Kitting and Ian O’Keefe were completely out of line. First, the petition regarded a totally irrelevant issue. Senator Soucek was invited to speak at the Veteran’s Day celebration because he is a veteran of the military. Second, Senator Soucek is always welcome on campus because he represents Appalachian State University, as the majority of students voted for him in 2010. The petition was completely inappropriate for the occasion. In addition, the issue they picked is one that even students at Appalachian State are not unified on, as we have a diverse campus. Nate Wright Junior management major

Library editorial ‘selfish’ I find the editorial in the Nov. 15 edition of The Appalachian absolutely selfish. Anne Buie, in her opinion piece in the Oct. 25 edition of the paper, noted that she was “currently sitting in the Wired Scholar with a security guard and six other students” at the time of writing. In the Sept. 15 edition, an article titled “Say Goodbye to 24/5” claimed the average headcount in the library after 1 a.m. was 54. It is admitted in the Nov. 15 editorial that “usage of the library after 2 a.m. has not been overwhelming.” Are you honestly going to say that someone – likely more than one person – deserves to lose their job so that so little of the student body can regain access to the library during these hours? How selfish. During normal operating hours each day, the entirety of the library assists many more students than 54. Yet you call for their jobs to be cut? Cutting jobs would undoubtedly inconvenience more people than the few who use it in the middle of the night. If you’re going to measure the value of keeping jobs versus accommodating students, it would be wise to keep this in mind. I could understand if a lot of this anger was directed at not having access to having research materials. For some it is. But for many, it is not – see Nystrom and Lucas’ letters in the Sept. 20 issue. Many want the library because they can’t seem to study anywhere else. Buie makes an important point in her aforementioned opinion piece: “Learn to adapt.” The Nov. 15 editorial states: “The library exists to further our education – no other reason for its existence should trump this one. And those in charge should not assume that we do not know what we need.” The library does indeed strive to serve this purpose. Its mission statement reads: “The mission of the Appalachian State University Library is to assist those who pursue knowledge.” Perhaps members of The Appalachian’s editorial board should not assume that what they want is best. Perhaps they should consider that the library is doing the best it can in the face of unfortunate circumstances. Austin Reiter Senior English major

Aaron Fairbanks | Editorial Cartoonist

Guest Column

Students should take ride-sharing opportunities I am a sustainable human being. At least, that’s what I tell myself. I recycle. I buy local and domestic. I drive a small, fuel-efficient car I cut off the lights when I leave the room and even unplug all of my appliances when they are not in use. In my mind, I thought I was leaps and bounds above the average American. Then I moved here and realized I’m really not. Not to catalogue my failings, but I take extremely long showers. I love air conditioning in the summer and heat in the winter. I drive everywhere I need to go, often by myself. The latter is probably the bigger failing. I am a road tripping, “sure I’ll be there,” “I’m going home this weekend”

queen. I love my car and can’t imagine life without it. I have an extreme aversion to public transportation and that can be problematic in larger cities (you should see my D.C. cab fare budget). It wasn’t until I came to Appalachian State University that I got over this public transportation fear and realized I could do a lot more to become the sustainable superhero I believed I was. It turns out there are now over one billion cars on the road globally. Of that one billion, the United States accounts for 239.8 million vehicles on the road – more than three times that of China, the country with the second-most cars. This contributes to our country’s status as one of the largest global contributors of

carbon emissions. Fortunately, our university is doing its part to reduce that. Appalachian is about to re-launch alternative transportation programs for the entire campus. We will promote bicycling in a big way, bring ride sharing to the university and promote AppalCART and our regional bus systems. We have already launched Zimride, an online ridesharing social network. When Appalachian launched Zimride over fall break, I immediately signed up to do my part. On the way home, I rode with two really great people – a freshman from New York who taught me about dubstep and a junior from Greensboro who plays the banjo and guitar.

On the way back, I met two freshman girls from Raleigh and very much enjoyed their company and conversation on the road. So far with Zimride, 146,404 miles have been posted by 800 users. We have potentially reduced our CO2 levels by 113,610 pounds – and that’s just since fall break. With more users, we can save a lot more. We can make better decisions about the way we move about the planet and truly become the sustainable superheroes we are meant to be. For more information, visit sustain.appstate.edu/ transit and zimride.appstate. edu. Danielle Adams Political science student

graduate

The Appalachian

• November 17, 2011

| TheAppalachianOnline.com

Presley leads Mountaineers in multiple roles (7-3), (5-2)

THE BREAKDOWN with Chris Williams

(5-5), (3-4)

Rhodes Stadium Elon, N.C. 3:00 p.m.

Elon’s Phoenix vs. ASU’s Mountaineers

The matchup After a successful week, highlighted by an easy Mountaineer victory and losses by both Wofford and Furman, ASU will travel to Elon for its last regular season matchup. Currently ranked eighth in the nation, Appalachian State could ensure a playoff berth with a victory over the Phoenix Saturday. In a season riddled with player turnover and inconsistent performances, the Mountaineers will attempt to put all the pieces together and award Coach Moore his fourth national title. Saturday’s away game is one remaining roadblock staring ASU in the face. Though many will mistake this as a tune-up game, Elon can’t be taken lightly – especially after defeating Furman last week. First year starter Thomas Wilson will lead the Phoenix’s explosive passing offense against an evolving ASU defense that has been primarily focused on stopping the run.

How ASU can win If Jamal Jackson has learned anything in his first five starts, it’s the wisdom of throwing it up to the big man – wide receiver Brian Quick – and letting him do the rest. Quick now holds the Appalachian State record for most receiving yards and most touchdowns, two credentials that make him the number-one scoring threat on a talented ASU offense. If Jackson continues to tap into this source of talent, he can’t go wrong. If the Mountaineers can remain focused on the task at hand and refrain from looking to the future, they have more talent at nearly every position and should be able to smother the Phoenix.

How Elon can win With most SoCon teams implementing a run-heavy offensive strategy, the Mountaineers have structured their game plan around stopping the triple option. However, a matchup against the Phoenix will test ASU’s pass-rush presence and their pass-defense ability in the young secondary. Elon always seems to develop efficient and skilled quarterbacks who are able to read and exploit lackluster defenses. If the Mountaineers are caught on their heels, they may be chasing side receiver Aaron Mellette – who is, statistically, the best wide out in the conference.

Photos by Adam Jennings | The Appalachian

DeAndre Presley attempts to tackle Georgia Southern’s Kyle Oehlbeck during the Mountaineers’ win over Georgia Southern.

Junior defensive back Troy Sanders and senior quarterback DeAndre Presley leap to knock down a ball intended for a Georgia Southern receiver during the Mountaineers’ 24-17 victory.

From defense to quarterback: player fills in gaps to lead ASU into postseason by JAKE AMBERG Sports Editor

f the 19 Mountaineer seniors attempting to win a fourth national football championship, one player stands out. Standing at 5 feet 6 inches, DeAndre Presley is physically smaller than some of his teammates. But when it comes to making an impact, there’s no bigger player than Presley. “I think he’s said it on the field on Saturdays about as point blank as you can,” head coach Jerry Moore said. “DeAndre came to me and said, ‘Coach, I want to help this football team. I’ll be on special teams. I’ll be a receiver.’” Presley, a senior, has had a wild career as a Mountaineer. Recruited as a quarterback, he’s now filled roles at five different positions,

ASU 27 Elon 21

signal caller. When he returned, just before the Homecoming game against Samford, Presley was eager to help the Mountaineers in any way he could. That included playing defense – something he’d never done in his life. “Day in and day out, I’m busting my behind to be the best corner there is,” Presley said. “Asking questions, staying after to get work in and when the game comes it’s just everything I’ve been taught to do. I try not to overthink anything and make plays.” Presley made an immediate impact on defense, playing corner back well and leading the defense. Senior defensive line leader Chris Aiken said Presley is a huge part of the Mountaineers’ resurgent defense. “DeAndre Presley is an athlete – an athlete with a big heart who

wants to play well on the football field,” Aiken said. “You could put him at punter and he’d be working hard to punt the ball the best he can. He’s one of those players who are special, one of a kind. He’s in it to win it like everybody else.” Although the season hasn’t gone exactly as planned, Presley’s attempts to help Jackson prepare for his starting role are just another example of his personal growth this year. “I’ve grown a lot, being able to take the backseat to Jamal and be his biggest fan,” Presley said. “Last year, he was my number one fan and this year, I’m his number one fan.” The Mountaineers will play their final regular season game this weekend, on the road against Elon. If they win, they could still get home field advantage for the playoffs.

Around the Southern Conference The Citadel at South Carolina

Samford at Auburn

Furman at Florida

Chattanooga at Wofford

Georgia Southern at Alabama

The Citadel Bulldogs (4-6, 2-6), coming off a heartbreaking 19-14 defeat to Samford, will travel to Columbia, S.C. to face the Gamecocks Saturday. The Citadel took a 14-0 first quarter lead against Samford before giving up 19 unanswered points. The game was capped off by Samford Quarterback Dustin Taliaferro, who ran in the final score from two yards out, with just six seconds remaining. South Carolina (8-2) defeated Florida 17-12 last weekend.

Samford (6-4, 4-4) will travel from Birmingham to Auburn for an in-state matchup against the defending FBS National Champion Auburn Tigers (6-4). Last weekend, Samford defeated the Citadel 19-14 in a thrilling fashion with a last second touchdown from Dustin Taliaferro. Auburn is coming off a 45-7 shellacking at the hands of the Georgia Bulldogs.

Coming off a 41-34 setback to Elon, Furman (6-4, 5-3) will travel to Gainesville, Fla. to play the Gators (5-5) in the Swamp. A win would make Florida bowl-eligible. Senior quarterback Chris Forcier accounted for 369 yards of total offense and four total touchdowns, but had two critical interceptions. Florida was defeated 17-12 by South Carolina last weekend in Columbia, S.C.

The Mocs (5-5, 3-4) will travel to Finley Stadium Saturday, looking to upset the Terriers (7-3, 5-2) and close out their disappointing season on a high note. Chattanooga had last weekend off, but has won three of its last four contests and is playing its best football of the season. The powerful Wofford offense, on the other hand, couldn’t get on track last weekend and lost 31-10 to Georgia Southern. A win could clinch a playoff berth for Wofford.

The prize for the Eagles (9-1, 7-1), after clinching the SoCon title ,is a trip to Tuscaloosa to face the vaunted Crimson Tide (9-1). Alabama is coming off a solid 24-7 win at Mississippi State. The Tide’s defense hasn’t allowed more than 14 points in a game this season and have only allowed more than 10 points once. Both teams combine to rush for over 500 yards per game.

Pigskin Pick’em

FCS Media Poll Week 12

Week 12 Nov. 19 Jake Amberg

Sports Editor The Appalachian (34-16)

The bottom line Though the Mountaineers have dealt with a series of ups and downs, they currently find themselves in a favorable position. It’s hard to believe the ASU players and coaches will allow any slip ups so late in the season. Look for a solid performance from Jamal Jackson Saturday. Though he struggled in the first half against Western last week, he appears poised to break out and lead his team to the playoffs. The first half may remain pretty close, but the Mountaineers will rise to the top in the second.

including defense and special teams. Presley entered the 2011 season as the team’s top quarterback and a preseason favorite to win the Walter Payton Award. But along with the rest of the Mountaineers, he got off to a bad start with a huge blowout loss to Virginia Tech. Then, ASU stumbled out of the gate against its first two SoCon opponents. The Mountaineers scored zero offensive points in a 14-12 win over Chattanooga – the same team Presley dominated a year before – and scored just 14 points in a loss to Wofford. Presley injured his shoulder early in the Wofford game, an injury that would drastically alter the Mountaineers’ season. In Presley’s absence, teammate Jamal Jackson took over and took off – leaving Presley without his starting job as the team’s main

Appalachian at

Elon Wofford at Chattanooga GSU at Alabama Furman at Florida UNC at Virginia Tech.

Adam Jennings Photographer

The Appalachian

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Justin Herberger

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The Appalachian

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SGA President

Chancellor (38-12)

1. Montana State 2. Ga. Southern* 3. Sam Houston State 4. Northern Iowa 5. North Dakota State 6. Lehigh 7. Montana 8. Appalachian State* 9. Old Dominion 10. Towson 11. Maine 12. Wofford* 13. New Hampshire T14. Illionois State T14. Harvard 16. Liberty 17. Delaware 18. Jackson State 19. Central Arkansas 20. James Madison 21. Tennessee Tech 22. North Dakota 23. Indiana State 24. South Dakota 25. Norfolk State *SoCon Member Source: soconsports.com