The Appalachian, September 2023

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EDITORIAL

ELLA ADAMS managing editor

ETHAN SMITH sports editor

SIRI PATTERSON news editor

BRILEY TURPIN a&c editor

Los Angeles Times Sunday Crossword Puzzle

“SUBTRACTION”

JADE OGLE chief

CHANCE CHAMBERLAIN associate sports editor

MADISON LIPE associate news editor

NADINE JALLAL opinion editor

MULTIMEDIA

K. SLADE visual managing editor

PRUETT NORRIS multimedia editor

ASHTON WOODRUFF photo editor

KAITLYN CLOSE graphics editor

RIAN HUGHES associate graphics editor

BUSINESS

ETHAN BATCHELOR business manager business@theappalachianonline.com

JULIA WOODRING director of marketing and public relations

ELLA WILSON director of audience engagement

KAYLA MASTERMAN distribution manager

DR. ALLISON BENNETT DYCHE adviser adviser@theappalachianonline.com

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. The Appalachian strives for accuracy in newsgathering and reporting. If you think we have an error, email editor@theappalachianonline.com.

Participation in The Appalachian is open to all current full-time students at the university. For more information about joining, email outreach@theappalachianonline.com.

The opinion pages of The Appalachian are open public forum. Contributiions are welcomed via email to editor@theappalachianonline.com Opinions expressed are those of individual columnists, and do not necessarily relfect the views of the news organization overall. Unsigned editorials represent the collective opinion of The Appalachain editorial board. One copy of The Appalachian per person. Additional copies can be purchased from the newsroom for $1 each.

Catching up on campus construction

University students may spend their time working, taking classes, caring for their families or any other endless, time-consuming possibilities. App State has stayed busy as well, renovating and updating various spaces of student activity. From fresh courts, redesigned campus store and a new track and field, these are some of App State’s summer projects.

Inside Plemmons Student Union, the Campus Store welcomed back students with a refreshed look and a new layout.

The new layout of the store isn’t just beneficial to customers. The new store design hosts two separate registers beside each entrance, making it easier for employees to check out more customers without being crammed in the same place.

Another update the university made during the summer was replacing the equipment in the weight room of the Student Recreation

Center, as well as the floors of the indoor basketball courts.

Aidan Shelton and Adam Wesp both spent their summer regularly visiting the SRC and said they watched the progress first-hand.

Shelton said it is “really nice to have some good quality equipment” in the weight room.

Of the equipment replaced, Shelton said he was excited to use the new dumbbells as the old sets were rusted and very old.

Shelton and Wesp, both regular users of SRC’s indoor basketball courts, said they felt unsafe when playing on the previous flooring.

“There were days that if I wasn’t wearing the right shoes, I wasn’t quite as comfortable going 100% because I didn’t want to blow out my ACL or anything,” Shelton said. “It just feels much safer, much better.”

The slickness of the floor was not the only problem, said Wesp, who appreciated that the new floors came

with redrawn lines that fixed previous errors.

“The old courts, the paint in the basketball court, it’s supposed to be a rectangle but for some reason it was more of a trapezoid shape,” Wesp said.

The next project involves the new track and field. At the end of April, the university celebrated the opening of the Randy Marion track and field facility at the Appalachian 105 property. The construction at 105 will continue during the fall semester, as the university breaks ground on phase two of the project, according to App State’s future.

Director of Track & Field/Cross Country Damion McLean said he got his teams practicing in the facilities as soon as he could.

“We’ve been out there whether it was cold or hot because it was something that is needed,” said McLean. “And we’ve been very grateful to have it to practice.”

As an App State alum, McLean has seen the various improvements the university has made to different student athletic facilities. He said the addition of the track and field at 105 is extremely beneficial to the team.

“The whole team has been out there, from the distance to the throws, we get to see everybody at the same time, so they can cheer on each individual person, especially when it’s been a hard workout,” McLean said.

Jada Branch, a former track & field athlete, had an extremely successful season, said McLean, and qualified to compete in the USA Track & Field Elite Championship, placing 10th in the triple jump. Due to their success in the past season, McLean and some team members spent their long season practicing at the field at 105.

The Randy Marion facility includes a stand-alone track, two long jump pits and a pole vault area which can accommodate two high jump pits and a javelin runway, said McLean.

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Director Anna Oakes said in an email the university plans to start 21 projects during the 2023-24 academic year and complete around 14 projects.

“However, project schedules could be impacted by weather, supply chain issues, the timing of the state budget and other factors,” Oakes said.

App State student promotes Narcan accessibility

Editor’s note: Narcan and naloxone are used interchangeably throughout this article. Narcan is the brand name of the generic drug naloxone.

This article discusses overdose deaths and addiction. App State’s Counseling and Psychological Services are free and available to those seeking support or guidance. The center can be reached at 828-262-3180 or by visiting Miles Annas Student Support Building during their hours of operation.

“Naloxone saves lives!” senior Zoe Lebkuecher typed on each flyer with a Spanish translation under each line along with where students and anyone on campus can find Narcan.

Lebkuecher’s attendance at a welcome event she found on Engage turned into what is now a passion, spreading Narcan awareness.

Lebkuecher transferred to App State last school year and attended an event hosted by the Collegiate Recovery Community. Lebkeucher said she has been working with the group ever since because of the community she found.

The university’s Collegiate Recovery Community helps students who are in recovery or wish to be in recovery and provides resources for

those who want to support others throughout their recovery journey. The organization holds weekly recovery and community meetings.

Lebkuecher started to find ways to get involved with the Collegiate Recovery Community, which works hand-in-hand with Wellness & Prevention Services on campus.

Through both organizations, Narcan is available to anyone at Wellness & Prevention Services on campus and as a part of a project Lebkeucher started last semester called the SAFE Project.

SAFE stands for Stop the Addiction Fatality Epidemic, which is a national nonprofit organization that focuses on collegiate recovery.

SAFE funded Lebkuecher’s project which included the disbursement of Narcan flyers around campus.

Currently Lebkucher has included locations at the Student Health Services Pharmacy, Wellness & Prevention Services and Watauga County Health Department.

Along with posting flyers, Lebkucher and Ben Asma, assistant director for Wellness & Prevention Services, have handed out around 2,000 doses of Narcan to people in the Boone community.

Bringing awareness to addiction recovery is something that hits close to home for Lebkuecher. Along with a family history of addiction, Lebkeucher said she recently lost a close family member to an overdose.

“By the time the paramedics got there it

was too late,” but Lebkeucher Narcan accessibilitysaid her family member’s life could have been saved if the person that found them was equipped with Narcan.

Stephanie Main from Boone Police’s records division said she found five reported overdose calls since January 2022.

In North Carolina alone, more than 36,000 people lost their lives due to drug overdose from 2000-22. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services refers to this issue as an overdose epidemic.

“Any life saved is a job well done to me,” Lebkuecher said.

Lebkeucher and Asma have been working on being able to set up a booth on the university’s Sanford Mall to pass out Narcan to students, educate them on why they should have it and train them on how to use it.

Along with Lebkeucher, SGA President JP Neri and Vice President Margaret-Ann Littauer have also taken a stance on the potential lifesaving effects of Narcan.

“We are not lost on the usage of opioids on college campuses, and as communities around the United States see an increase in fentanyl-related overdoses in laced drugs, we believe Narcan must be widely accessible for those who want it,” Neri said.

Neri said he and Littauer encourage everyone at App State to take advantage of Narcan and fentanyl testing strips, which are also available through the Wellness & Prevention office.

According to a Washington Post article published on Sept. 5, Narcan has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for over-thecounter use and will be available in stores like CVS and Walmart.

Lebkeucher said accessibility is a preventative measure rather than a gateway to addiction, which she said is part of the negative stigma around Narcan.

“What people really don’t understand about Narcan is that that’s not something you want to have

administered,” Lebkeucher said. “It doesn’t feel good.”

Lebkeucher and Neri both addressed concerns about the misuse of Narcan.

“Narcan has been shown to have no negative impact if administered on a person who is not having an overdose,” Neri said. The same is listed in the Center for Disease Control’s “5 Things to Know About Naloxone.” Students who use Narcan and call emergency services can also be protected by the Good Samaritan laws and the Code of Student Conduct’s Amnesty Policy, Neri said.

Wellness & Prevention Services is located on the ground floor of the Miles Annas Student Support building on campus and they are open on weekdays from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

“Simply ask for Narcan/naloxone or fentanyl testing strips (or both) at the reception desk and we’ll provide

it, no questions asked,” says Wellness & Prevention Services overdose prevention page. Wellness & Prevention Services also provides brief, confidential training on how to administer Narcan.

Campus club aims to reduce food insecurity

Briley Turpin | A&C Editor

The Appalachian region, spanning 13 states, is rich with culture, tourist attractions and small towns scattered along the mountain range. Roughly 26 million people reside in Appalachia, according to the Appalachian Regional Commission, including the entire population of Boone.

Of these 26 million people, 3.9 million, nearly 15% live at or below the poverty line, and the majority of these individuals are between the ages of 18-24, according to the commission.

App State is not exempt from these statistics; two out of three App State students faced food insecurity as of 2018, according to Appalachian Today. One campus club is doing its part to help minimize this food insecurity at the university.

The Appalachian Student Dietetics Association has put together a recipe book that will be placed in all food pantries across campus. They began working on the recipes over the summer, and plan to begin rolling the book

out in the next few months.

Matthew Arnold, a senior dietetics major and the president of ASDA, said he had the idea to make a recipe book while talking to other executive board members for the club.

“It was a collective idea that we should do something to have an impact on the student community, so I thought of a recipe book,” Arnold said.

The club, which consists of eight different committees, does volunteer work in and around Boone to help educate people about nutrition and resources for food insecurity. Each committee focuses on a different area of nutritional needs, ranging from geriatrics to disordered eating recovery to sports nutrition.

Selena Linn, a senior dietetics major, is the treasurer and the local outreach chair for the club. She said their primary focus is helping people in the community find the resources and education they need to ensure they get the fuel their body requires.

“We do a lot of things with the farmers market, the Hunger and Health Coalition, and the Hospitality House to help the community at large, but we wanted to do something to specifically help the students at App,” Linn said.

The ASDA is working with campus dining to create and distribute the recipe book throughout campus. The book is digital, and tablets containing the recipes will be placed in food pantries. There will also be QR codes that students can scan to take the recipes home.

Arnold said they opted for an electronic version of the book to reduce the stigma around going to a food pantry.

“There is a lot of stigma towards people who seek help in regards to food security and food insecurity, so we tried to minimize that by creating a QR code for those not comfortable with visiting the pantry,” Arnold said.

The vice president of the association, Mikayla McKean, is also a senior dietetics major. She said there is an identified need for the cookbook on campus.

“There are still a lot of students who will skip meals because they can’t afford to buy food or they don’t have

to it, and many students don’t have transportation,” McKean said. “There are so many roadblocks.”

The recipe book will contain recipes that can be made with the food provided in the pantries and will have different sections for individuals with differing nutritional needs. Arnold said there are plenty of products in the campus food pantries that go to waste simply because people don’t know what to do with them.

“The focus of the book is kinda just what is popular in a food pantry. So we’re looking at what is excess and putting those ingredients into a recipe so they aren’t wasted,” Arnold said.

Arnold said there are several products in the pantries across campus that people tend to dislike, such as beans or legumes.

“We try to mask an ingredient that people wouldn’t typically want to try on their own, and put them in a recipe where they might not even know it’s there,” Arnold said. “We’re trying to add nutritionally dense foods and place them in recipes that need them.”

McKean said the club plans to release the recipe book to the broader Boone community next year, but they wanted to focus on the student population first.

“We wanted to streamline the process of finding food for students on campus, but we understand the need for this in the broader community of Boone, so we hope to expand beyond campus in the next year,” she said.

Arnold said having the recipe book on campus is a small stepping stone to helping individuals throughout the region, and the club hopes to expand access to the recipes throughout Watauga County.

For more information on food insecurity at App State and available resources for students facing food insecurity, visit the Mountaineer Food Hub webpage.

A peek into peak week

Waking up to crisp morning air and stepping outside to feel the crunch of leaves under your feet while the trees shift from green to shades of red, yellow and orange can only mean one thing: fall is finally here.

With these changes comes peak week, typically around the third week of October, when the leaves are at their peak color. There are many ways to enjoy peak week and fully experience fall in the High Country. Driving on the Blue Ridge Parkway with the windows down while listening to a fall playlist is a great way to start. Traffic can be less than ideal since the phenomenon brings an influx of people, known as “leaf peepers,” but don’t let that stop you from experiencing the fresh air and cool breeze that make

peak week so popular.

Overlooks to visit: Anywhere on the Blue Ridge Parkway will showcase the vibrant leaves, but there are a few overlooks that provide optimal views. Golden hour, which takes place around 6:50 p.m., is a good time to go because the lighting brings out the colors of the leaves.

The first overlook to visit is Linn Cove Viaduct. The Linn Cove Viaduct, located at milepost 304.4 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, is a road that juts out of the backside of Grandfather Mountain, making it look as if cars are driving on and through the surrounding trees.

Located just 20 minutes from campus, Thunder Hill Overlook gives a wide view of the Blue Ridge

Mountains in their full autumn foliage. The Yonahlossee Overlook is the last overlook before the Linn Cove Viaduct and offers a southern view of the road. The overlook provides a different perspective of the trees than the others along the parkway.

Close to campus, located just past the Humane Society, the Grandview Overlook can be easily accessed for a slightly less crowded view of the leaves.

Hikes for viewing:

Many of the trails in Boone boast the beautiful fall colors that bring people to the High Country in October. Hiking is a good way to get exercise while still enjoying what peak week has to offer.

The Rough Ridge trail is a popular place to view the beauty of peak week, and offers hikers one of the more iconic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Located at mile-marker 302.8 on the parkway, this uphill out and back trail takes visitors along a boardwalk to a 360 degree view of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is only about 1.2 miles round trip.

For a slightly more challenging hike, Hebron Falls is a 1.5 mile out and back trail, or 3 miles round trip.

Located in Julian Price Park, Hebron Falls takes hikers through the trees to a view of a waterfall surrounded by orange and red fall foliage.

Another hiking option is Bass Lake Trail. This 1.9 mile loop around Bass Lake guides hikers around a lakefront path surrounded by trees.

Fall activities for peak week:

Lots of fall activities take place during peak week. Because many of these activities are outdoors, they are an easy way to view the leaves while also celebrating the season.

As is common in most places throughout the fall season, there are a number of pumpkin patches and corn mazes in Boone full of family fun.

Located on the Brown Family

Farm along the New River, the New River Corn Maze offers haunted hayrides and over a mile of corn mazes full of twists and turns. Starting Sept. 16, the maze is open Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to dark and Sundays from 1 p.m. to dark.

From mid September to late October, the Lantern Farm Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze is another destination pumpkin patch. Lantern Farm offers a 4 acre maze and pumpkins waiting to be picked, as well as refreshments and pre-picked pumpkins for those on a time crunch.

The Harvest Farm is home to miles of pumpkin patches and a 7 acre corn maze for those looking for a challenge. They provide visitors with the opportunity to complete a map and win a free pumpkin. Harvest Farm is pet friendly and located in Valle Crucis.

If a pumpkin patch isn’t your speed, from Sept. 22 through Oct. 28 Tweetsie Railroad turns into a spooktacular amusement park with activities for the whole family. Peak week treats:

Boone and the surrounding areas are also home to several restaurants to enjoy after a peak week adventure. There are a multitude of places, all within a short distance of the parkway to enjoy a meal after a day of fall fun.

The Speckled Trout, located at 922 Main St. in Blowing Rock, is a rustic southern restaurant with a bar full of craft beers and cocktails that serves both lunch and dinner. The Speckled Trout is open on Thursday, Sunday and Monday from 11 a.m.-9 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. The restaurant is closed on Tuesday and Wednesday.

For those who are looking for a quick bite to eat, Come Back Shack,

located at 1521 Blowing Rock Road, offers an on the go dining experience, serving burgers from 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m. seven days a week.

If you’re craving a burger but wanting the full sitdown dining experience, The Cardinal is a good option. Located at 1711 NC-105, The Cardinal menu has something for everyone, from fresh burgers to vegan options. The Cardinal is open from 11 a.m.-midnight seven days a week.

For those seeking a cold beer after a day of fall activities, check out Appalachian Mountain Brewery. Not only is Appalachian Mountain Brewery a place to grab a beer or cider on the patio, but they also have pizza from the Farm to Flame food truck. Both AMB and the food truck are open from noon-10 p.m. weekdays and from noon-11 p.m. on weekends.

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HONORING HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

Letter from the Editor Special Section

From Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, Hispanic accomplishments, histories, cultures and more are celebrated around the country in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.

As a Hispanic-American myself, I’ve seen these strides firsthand; I’ve witnessed the histories as they unfold, and I believe our culture deserves recognition.

Welcome to The Appalachian’s first Hispanic Heritage Month special section. I, along with the rest of our staff, would like to dedicate this special section to telling the stories of Hispanic culture on campus and in Boone.

This special section is for those who identify as Hispanic/Latino, to those who are first-gen students, to those who came to this country with nothing and built the foundation for you and your families, and to those who are kind enough to simply appreciate our cultures.

We recognize that Boone is home to many Spanish speakers who either only or primarily speak the language, and some of these stories feature them. To ensure we are reaching our audiences, The Appalachian is bringing back Spanish-translated stories on our website, something we unfortunately stopped producing back in 2020.

In addition, this special section of this issue is also available in Spanish. If you would like a copy of these pages fully in Spanish, please feel free to stop by The Appachian’s newsroom at room 235 in Plemmons Student Union or contact outreach@theappalachian.com.

In this special section, we use the terms Latino/Latina when referring to the community. Alternative, gender-neutral phrases, such as Latinx and Latine, are also used to describe Latin American communities; but for the purpose of clarity and consistency we are refraining from using these terms. Although conversations regarding gender-neutrality in the Spanish language are valid and important, we are choosing to use Latino/Latina because the terms are familiar to all Spanish-speakers.

We would like to show our appreciation for the Advancing DEI Grant Program through the Office of Diversity at App State, which has given us the opportunity to print copies in Spanish.

Finally, I would like to thank members of The Appalachian, members of the Latin Hispanic Alliance, and others who came in and offered their help in translating. We couldn’t have made this special section without you.

Thank you reader, for picking up our first Hispanic Heritage themed issue, and for supporting not only student journalism, but for supporting the Hispanic/Latino community of the High Country and beyond. We hope this issue either introduces you to our culture or makes you feel seen and heard.

A GLANCE AT HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

Sept. 15:

Beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month

Costa Rica’s Independence Day

El Salvador’s Independence Day

Guatemala’s Independence Day

Hondura’s Independence Day

Nicaragua’s Independence Day

Los Cumbias Stars at The Appalachain Theatre of the High Country from 8-10 p.m.

Sept. 16:

Mexico’s Independence Day

Sept. 18:

Chile’s Independence Day

Sept. 19:

Dia Latino at the King Street Farmers Market from 4-7 p.m.

Sept. 23:

Latin Night at Lily’s Snack Bar at 10 p.m.

Oct. 5:

Guatemalan Film Festival viewing of “Temblores” at L.S. Dougherty in room 209 at 5:30 p.m.

Oct. 6:

Latin Hispanic Alliance’s Hispanic Heritage Fesitval on Sanford Mall from 4-7 p m

Oct. 15:

Last day of Hispanic Heritage Month

HISPANIC HERITAGE

How one student leader gives a voice to others: Meet Rebeca Perez-Gonzalez

In a nationwide shortage of social workers, one student at App State is taking charge, leading a club and serving on a committee to give a voice to other students.

This leader is Rebeca PerezGonzalez, a senior social work major. She serves as president of the Student Association for Social Workers.

Perez-Gonzalez decided to major in social work after learning about the career in a class at a community college. After completing her own research and finding out social work isn’t limited to CPS, she found that the major aligned perfectly with her career goals.

She said she wants to become a clinical licensed social worker, working with individuals or families and using a very one-on-one approach.

She said she mainly wants to focus on helping children or adolescents with their mental health through therapy work.

To become a licensed social worker, Perez-Gonzalez said she must first obtain a master’s in social work, then earn her clinical social work license by completing several hours under supervision and passing the Licensed Clinical Social Worker exam.

As a student, she is already helping others through her position in SASW.

Perez-Gonzalez said the SASW is a service-learning organization at the university that allows undergraduate students of a similar academic background to socialize and participate in educational and volunteering events related to social work. The club meets every other Monday in Leon Levine Hall at 5:30 p.m.

Perez-Gonzalez’s responsibilities as president of the club include organizing and preparing club meetings, sending out information to members, setting up fundraising and volunteer events, and reaching out to guest speakers to talk to club members.

One of her main goals has been advertising and spreading word about the club.

“A lot of social work majors had no idea that the club existed,” she said.

Perez-Gonzalez said attendance was limited last semester. By her advertising efforts such as participating in the club expo at the beginning of the semester, active membership in the club has doubled.

Perez-Gonzalez said her leadership position is important to her as a person of color.

“I genuinely feel like as a person of color in a leadership position in an institution that’s a PWI, it’s insanely influential,” she said. “It’s beneficial and influential to see a person of color

in a leadership position because it shows them that just because you’re kind of the minority in and outside of the college, they still can work up to be in a leadership position.”

In addition to being president of SASW, Perez-Gonzalez is a Bachelor of Social Work Committee Student Representative. As a student leader in the undergraduate social work department, she participates during meetings with faculty and gives her thoughts and input related to course content and things within the program that are “behind the scenes.”

Perez-Gonzalez said meetings typically concern BSW coursework and course requirements. She said she is able to offer her perspective,

not only as a student but as a person of color, aiding other students in the department.

“It has been really influential and beneficial to me to get my voice as a person of color out there in my program,” she said. “Being in the committee has been so rewarding to me.”

In addition to advocating for fellow students, Perez-Gonzalez has been able to form connections with faculty members in the committee.

She said that professors in the department form connections with students, always offering guidance and advice.

“You know that they are there to help you with whatever you need,” she

said.

Deborah Phillips is an associate professor in the BSW department. She is also an advisor for SASW and has worked with Perez-Gonzalez this semester to plan meetings and come up with ideas for the club.

Phillips said she appreciates PerezGonzalez choosing to take on the role of president of the club.

“I really appreciate her stepping up to the plate and doing this,” Phillips said.

Phillips commented on PerezGonzalez’s performance as a student and within the club, saying, “She is enthusiastic and she’ll be a strong leader.”

Abbie Serrill, sophomore social work major and SASW vice president, has also worked with Perez-Gonzalez and said her work in the club is beneficial to the club members and the community.

“Rebeca is a kind person with great plans for the club and giving back to the community, and she works to accommodate all of the members of the club,” she said.

Perez-Gonzalez said she has been able to be a voice for other students in the program.

“Being able to be the voice of many other people and students within the program has been really rewarding,” Perez-Gonzalez said.

SASW meets every other Monday in Leon Levine Hall at 5:30 p.m. More information can be found on the club’s Engage website.

Latina advocate asks Q’Pasa Appalachia?

Adams began to work as a Spanish interpreter for the Watauga County Health Department, also known as AppHealthCare, while in Watauga County, making connections at every opportunity. In her time there she began to meet other Latinos in the area, many of them being new moms.

Later on, after having her two youngest sons, she began to work for Watauga County Schools. She saw those same new mothers she met before, except their children had grown up to kindergarten age.

“It was a beautiful transition to reconnect with every single one of them and support them by bringing necessary resources,” Adams said.

Paul Holden, Director of Student Services for WCS, said Adams’ current position for WCS as family resource coordinator was created around six years ago.

He explained he couldn’t see anyone else serving the role after seeing the portfolio she had been building up within the school district.

“She has outstripped anything that I would’ve ever imagined for that job,” Holden said. “Yolanda and her role in the community is really important, that the community trusts that person because she works mostly with our minority families.”

(Courtesy of Yolanda Adams)

ManyLatino individuals have experienced or heard the story of assimilation, to leave your life and all you know behind to start from scratch. Being in a new country with a new culture can be both an exciting and scary experience. This situation was no different for a 9-year-old girl from Bogotá, Colombia.

Yolanda Adams found herself in the U.S. for the first time at this age, staying for a year on a tourist visa. She eventually returned to the U.S. in the 12th grade and settled in Florida, saying that in this period she experienced her first cultural shocks, finding it difficult to assimilate to a new culture and make friends all over again.

Around 21 years ago, however, Adams moved to Boone where she found, at the time, there were not many Latino residents. Adams said she experienced her first instances of racism when arriving in Boone, different from what she had experienced in a lush Latino community back in Florida.

“I had to fight a lot to show the person I was and be accepted at any given time,” Adams said.

Along with being the family resource coordinator for WCS, Adams has served many roles within the community, member of the Immigrant Justice Coalition, Spanish translator and interpreter for AppHealthCare, Department of Social Services, Watauga County Sheriff’s office and the Boone Police.

Adams also implemented the Juntos program in the county which promotes higher education for the Latino Community.

“She has pushed for schools to accept the Faith Action ID as a form of identification,” said Jorge Escobar, a member of the Immigrant Justice Coalition and owner of Escobar Rustic Crafts and Creations. “Adams makes us all feel like family in this beautiful county.”

“The Latino community here in Watauga is a family to me,” Adams said. “At the end of the day, we are immigrants, and that’s why we come, to improve. So the fact we can sow the seed in one of these families that they can do and obtain their American dream is something that is priceless.”

In addition to these positions, Adams runs a blog called Q’Pasa Appalachia that posts events, promotes small businesses and shares resources for the Latino community.

Before Q’Pasa Appalachia became what it’s known as today, it was first an account Adams created with Iris Straube, a fellow Spanish interpreter she worked with. They needed a more effective way than one-on-one meetings to reach and keep over 265 Latino families in the county informed on all that was happening within the school system.

After some time, they realized the information was very limited, and at the time there wasn’t anything connecting the Latino community to the Watauga community as a whole. So during the pandemic they decided that they’d make it what it is today, with the help of Isauro Estrada, co-founder of the blog.

Adams said the goal was to stimulate the Latino community by posting and hosting events that would not only build bridges with organizations, businesses and

people in the community, but also the police.

“We realized that was one of the areas where the Latino community held the most fear and we wanted to create an open discussion,” said Adams.

Through events she created like Café con Leche con un Policía, she “has contributed to creating a bridge of trust between the Hispanic or Latino community and law enforcement,” said Escobar.

Adams has received several awards over the years for her communitary service.

In 2020, Adams earned both the Baker/Jones Woman of the Year Award given by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce, but also the App State’s chancellor’s Inclusive Excellence in the Community Award.

She says the awards she’s received may have her name on them but that she feels the awards belong to the community as a whole.

The award Adams says she is most proud of, is the Servant’s Heart Award which she received from WCS in 2017.

“The Latino community here in Watauga is a family to me.” -Yolanda Adams

September 13, 2023

Adams said she values this award the most because “that’s what I am, a servant to the community.”

“I’ve dedicated my life and everything I am to ensure that we all grow together, not only in knowledge and education, but to empower the community,” she said.

A message Adams has for the entire community is: “If we have a leader within us, we should not hesitate to listen to that voice. Each of our voices must be used in an appropriate way to empower our community.”

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Solution to sudoku puzzles

Solutions to Sunday’s puzzles

Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 or 2-by-3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 (or 1 to 6 for the smaller grid). For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit www.sudoku.org.uk.

Adams work in the local community has earned her many awards in the past few years, like the 2020 Baker/Jones Woman of the Year Award.

(Courtesy of Yolanda Adams)

Jenna’s Cocina: Taste of Caribbean cuisine

Growing up in a Hispanic household, dedicating entire days to cooking is nothing out of the ordinary. No matter how big or small the meals are – although they are usually large – cooking and eating the food not only tastes good, but in Hispanic/Latino culture it’s a representation of family, coming together and connecting with one’s roots.

In this recipe corner, take a trip to the Caribbean islands as you make and eat staple foods from the Dominican Republic such as tostones and arroz con gandules, having origins in Puerto Rico. Paired together, these two recipes make an incredible main meal.

Whether you’re in Boone or elsewhere, as you make these, gather some friends or family and experience the joys and values familiar to Hispanic/Latino communities of making a good meal and enjoying it together.

Tostones Arroz con gandules

Approximate cooking time: 10-15 minutes including prep work.

Ingredients:

Green plantains (each can make about 4 tostones)

Vegetable oil (½ cup per serving)

Salt, to taste

Pepper or other spices if desired, to taste

Instructions:

As you prepare your plantains, pour ½ cup of vegetable oil into a pan and set on medium heat to allow the oil to get hot.

Peel your green plantains and then slice them into about 1 inch thick pieces. Once you have your slices, put them in the pan and allow them to sizzle for about 3 minutes on each side, or until golden.

Once golden, take them out of the pan, but keep the heat on. Place them on a clean surface such as a cutting board. Make sure oil is dried using paper towels.

Next, flatten the plantains so they look circular and thin using either a board, the bottom of a clean mug or a tostonera, a presser made specifically for flattening plantains.

Once flattened, put the plantains back into the pan with the hot oil.

Allow them to sizzle for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the crispiness is to your liking.

Finally, take the tostones out, place them on paper towels to soak up oil and then plate them. Add as much salt as you would like, or feel free to experiment by adding other seasonings, sauces, meats or seafood on top.

Approximate cooking time: 45 minutes including prep work. Serving size: Using a large pot, feeds about 6-8 people.

Ingredients:

1 can of Goya Green Pigeon Peas, also known as gandules

2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

Salt, to taste

1 ½ packs of Goya Saźon seasoning (per large pot)

Goya Adobo All Purpose Seasoning, to taste

2 tablespoons of tomato sauce

1 tablespoon of sofrito, a blend made up of cilantro, onions, red and green peppers and garlic. Can be either store-bought or homemade.

2 cups of white rice

2 ½ cups of water, or enough to cover the rice.

Ham (optional)

Green olives (optional)

Instructions:

Pour 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil into a large pot and turn the heat on to medium. For the best results of this recipe, use a caldero or a cast aluminum pot, a type of pot popularly used for Caribbean dishes similar to this one.

Next, pour in your seasonings, drained gandules, ham or olives if you want them, tomato sauce and sofrito. The sofrito and gandules are crucial for this recipe, so be sure to include them. Stir your mix in your pot for about 4 minutes. Be sure to taste your mix and adjust the amount of spices you add to your liking.

Next, add in your rice. Before adding in your rice, be sure to rinse it. Once the rice is added, pour 2½ cups of water into the pot. Depending on the size of your pot, you may need to add more water. For reference, the amount of water in your pot should be about 1 inch higher than the rice.

Once the rice is in, be sure to stir it well. Make sure the rice is being mixed enough to where the gandules are spread throughout. Then close the lid on the pot and let it cook for 10 minutes between low and medium heat without stirring.

After 10 minutes, stir the rice. And note: avoid stirring the bottom of the pot– that will be used for later. After a few stirs allow the rice to cook for about 15-20 minutes or without stirring or until it is completely cooked. If it is still hard or there is still water, stir and let it cook for a little longer. After it is done, plate it.

Remember the bottom of the pot rice? Although it looks burned, do not throw it out. This is called pegao in Puerto Rican culture or con-con in Dominican culture. Regardless of what it’s called, it is very flavorful, so be sure to give it a try.

Now that you have your plated rice, feel free to add on any topping, such as chopped up cilantro. If your recipe did not come out perfect, no worries. This recipe takes time to perfect, and is prone to adjustments based on your liking.

Playlist of the month: A Latin-Hispanic celebration

With the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month coming up, it’s time we take a look at a community shaped by cultures all around the globe. Taking strong inspiration from the music of Africa, the Iberian Peninsula and the indigenous peoples of Central and South America, it’s no wonder that Latin music can’t help but get a party going. If you’re looking for a playlist to get you through the rut of tedious assignments starting to pile up, look no further. These songs will get your hips moving as you crank out some homework while grooving out.

Latino artists have been making notable strides in American pop culture for decades, from rock legends like Santana with “Maria Maria” to pop icons like Shakira with classics like “Hips Don’t Lie.” And with names like Bad Bunny consistently hitting top charts with beats like “Tití Me Preguntó,” Latin music continues to be alive and well with new names

Scan me to open this in

Spotify

“Diles” - Bad Bunny, Ozuna, Farruko, Arcángel, Ñengo Flow, DJ Luian, Mambo

Kings

“Mi Gente” - J Balvin, Willy William

“Nada” - Lido Pimienta, Li Saumet

“El Chico Del Apartamento 512” -

Selena

“Don’t Go Yet” - Camila Cabello

“A Dios Le Pido” - Juanes

“Ahora Te Puedes Marchar” - Luis

Miguel

“Danza Kuduro” - Don Omar, Lucenzo

“DÁKITI” - Bad Bunny, Jhayco

“la luz(Fín)” -Kali Uchis, Jhayco

“El Preso” - Fruko Y Sus Tesos, Wilson

“Saoko” Manyoma

“En Barranquilla Me Quedo” - Joe

Arroyo, La Verdad

“Que Nadie Sepa Mi Sufrir” - Mi Sonora

“Traicionera” - Sebastian Yatra

“Fuera De Mi Vida” - Chico Trujillo

“Maria Maria” - Santana, The Product G&B

“Corazon Espinado” - Santana, Maná

“Taki Taki” - DJ Snake, Selena Gomez, Ozuna, Cardi B

“Copa Vacía” - Shakira, Manuel Turizo

“Nena” - YENDRY

“Yo Dije OUFF” - Omar Rudberg

“Hips Don’t Lie” - Shakira, Wyclef Jean

“Ella Baila Sola” - Eslabon Armado, Peso

Pluma

The same great beer, 3 great locations.

Opinion: Listen and learn, it’s not hard

Hispanic Heritage Month

is celebrated from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 to uplift, honor and recognize the achievements of Hispanic Americans. It provides the opportunity to honor our heritage and be proud of our culture. At this time, giving space and education is crucial amidst the callous efforts of ignorant humans to portray Hispanics as aliens and criminals. As college students, exposure to inaccurate history, articles and stereotypes is unavoidable, and ignoring it is part of the problem. Here are three points to know throughout the month, and take this to heart: Ignorance is not bliss, it’s plain stupidity.

#1 Terminology refresher: Hispanic ≠ Latinx

Multiple terms are involved within the community, such as Hispanic and Latinx. While many use the terms interchangeably, they aren’t. Hispanic represents those who are from or descendants of countries that have Spanish as a primary language. At the same time, Latinx refers to people who are from or related to people from Latin America. Latin America consists of 20 countries from North and South America and the Caribbean. In short, Hispanic refers to language, while Latinx refers to the geographic location. However, there are exceptions. Brazilians are Latinx, but not Hispanic, as their official language is Portuguese. Spaniards are Hispanic but not Latinx, as they’re located in Europe. And with more diversity in the community, people may have lineage from both, allowing them to identify with both terms. Not all cultures are the same, but they are worthy of recognition and pride. Don’t attempt to substitute one term for another or assume someone’s ethnicity. Both communities deserve more than a racist assumption built on misinformation. As seen, the use of the term Latinx in this article is intentional; to provide a ungendered version of the word Latino to be as inclusive as possible. While there is debate about using the word and its popularity, non-Latinx people need to understand that this argument is between the community, not others. Being aware of not butting into a

conversation not relevant to oneself will go a long way.

#2 It celebrates several countries, not just Mexico

Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the independence of Hispanic countries from their colonizers and highlights the struggles and conflicts they endured to achieve it. Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua celebrate their independence from Spain on Sept. 15, with Mexico and Chile gaining theirs on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18, respectively. As a clarification, Mexico’s Independence Day is not Cinco de Mayo; a simple Google search will show that. It is essential for these countries to celebrate their accomplishments from the beginning to the present and recognize the foundations of their history. Their victory over the oppression and exploitation they faced should not be overshadowed by xenophobes with personal agendas. Be open to learning more about each country and the important Hispanic & Latinx figures within them, such as Sylvia Mendez, Sonia Sotomayor, Julia Alvarez and more.

#3 All Hispanics do not look the same

There is a stereotype that all Hispanics are brown, which is plain wrong and ignorant. As these countries are spanned across the earth, there is no singular shade of melanin that represents all Hispanics. They range from light skin to dark skin, and this is what makes the community more beautiful. The color of someone’s skin does not immediately identify them, but that does not mean that one should be embarrassed about it. They also do not wear the same clothes, speak the same language or even

have similar features. These do not factor into whether or not they are lesser Hispanics. Embracing this diversity and removing this prejudicial belief is imperative to respect the community and culture that exists. These aren’t the only important aspects of Hispanic Heritage Month. Being able to understand and respect other ethnicities is the basis of being a good person. As you progress into college, you don’t have an excuse to be uninformed and ignorant. As of 2022, 8.1% of App State students are Hispanic/Latinx who are proud of their heritage and willing to showcase

their culture. Observing Hispanic Heritage Month and allowing oneself to be educated is all one can ask. Giving this community the respect it deserves is more important than promoting false stereotypes.

Opinion: Breakups suck

Let’s be honest. Breakups suck. They are not healing, not freeing, not fun and overall painful. While some people may be completely OK after a breakup and recognize it was the best option, they are still grieving the end of the relationship. They are grieving because of the past, not necessarily because they saw a future. Both sides of a breakup are human and OK. Going through a breakup is probably one of the most human experiences anyone can feel. You are mourning someone who is still alive. You had these beautiful and life-changing experiences with a complete stranger who made your world turn for a while. Feeling sad about that and loving someone you had no requirement to love is such a beautiful feeling nobody should regret.

Breakups in college range from high school sweethearts breaking

up because of distance, long-term couples realizing they want something else, situationships turning into realizations they deserve better and every other combination imaginable. The common theme in all breakups is the growing pains and lessons learned. Some may end in a screaming match outside Lily’s at 2 a.m., some end in your childhood bedroom, in your freshman dorm, in your mom’s arms, face-to-face or over text. No matter how they end, good or bad, it is okay to face the fact that you may have thought they were your soulmate at one point.

The bright side in all this is, hey, you are in college. Time to meet yourself at this moment and be present for who you are, not who anyone expects you to be. You are at such a pivotal time in your life; you might meet your best friends who turn into your bridesmaids or groomsmen.

You also get to know yourself. You may have just entered college and never had independence like this. Take advantage of that fact. Do whatever you want, not what anyone else wants you to do. Be you as loud as you can, and never hide your heart.

You may be the senior who just broke up with their partner after being together for years, the person you dreamt of a life with. You have a right to grieve the relationship you had and the life you could have had. It is so painful, but now you get to start your career and build a strong foundation for your life. You get to be a pillar for yourself for once. You get to meet who this new fully integrated adult is, alone. You get to love yourself. You will start to understand the world spins around you, not them.

You may be mourning a situationship that never was an exclusive relationship but hurts just

the same. If you are that person, you have a right to mourn the relationship you could have had. Do not let anyone tell you to get over it, or it does not hurt as bad because the “what ifs” are just as devastating.

Now, you need to look in the mirror and realize you are enough and worth it even if they did not think so. They did not see the bravery behind your smile every day or the light you shined on everyone you met. Never let anyone dim that light inside of you. Be that light for yourself; you are the only constant in your life. No matter what situation you have found yourself in. One day, the right person will come around who will see you for all the priceless flaws you have and will never expect you to cover the brightest parts of yourself. For now, remember you are your own soulmate. You are complete by yourself.

Opinion: Football etiquette 101

Football games are some of the highlights of the college experience, and normally attending one is a fun experience with friends. The crowds constantly chanting, the marching band playing and the overall atmosphere of Kidd Brewer Stadium brings a sense of school pride and game day spirit.

However, at the same time, it is not fun when beers are poured on people, constant obscenities are being yelled, people are being squished to the point of barely breathing and trash is everywhere. These are just a few aspects that contribute to the overstimulating atmosphere football fans can create. There is a way for everyone to enjoy the games and feel the atmosphere football is always meant to create. It just takes following a few simple rules:

#1 Hold the alcohol

Now, this rule is not talking about the fun experience of getting overly drunk at a game and not being able to hold the alcohol, although this experience is not recommended. This rule is more referring to the alcohol being held tightly in the hands of people. To paint a picture, many

people are holding their alcohol when suddenly, the team scores the winning touchdown. Everyone erupts into cheers, except for the people that get alcohol all down the front or back of them. Not many people want to smell like alcohol at the end of the game, especially for the people who will not or cannot drink. It is perfectly reasonable to want a drink during the game, just as reasonable as it is to put the drink on the bench or hold it down at waist level when standing and yelling that the opposing team should have a penalty. Also, why waste an expensive drink by throwing it around? This is a financially responsible rule everyone should follow.

#2 Respect the personal space bubble

The many people that have gone to football games have more than likely experienced the joys of being squished in a crowd. There are many vertically challenged people in the world who can easily get lost in a sea of people and they deserve their space as much as taller people do. Tall people do sometimes need more room, but they should still be

mindful of the people around them. Since everyone needs their own room, people should be mindful of other people’s space. Eliminate the most stressful, claustrophobic part of football games by not popping any personal bubbles.

#3 Stop destroying things

It is exciting when a football team wins, however it does not justify anyone going around destroying property around the stadium. In 2022, a temporary art installation in the Duck Pond was vandalized and ripped apart after a win against Texas A&M. Wey Hall was also raided after the 2022 game against the Tar Heels. If people are really excited that the team won, jump up and down in the stadium, run around campus, get with people on Sanford Mall and have a celebration, but do not vandalize school property. It has no benefits and negatively impacts both the university and the surrounding community. App State is known for its school spirit shared among students, but the surrounding community does not see that. All the community sees is a bunch of college students gone wild having no respect for the university

and community they are spending most of their time in. Please stop destroying property because emotions are running high.

Football games are everywhere in movies and are practically embedded in American culture. Students grow up getting told what college football games are like, especially from others who have attended one. Unless they experience it themselves, these are the only real comparisons students have until attending one themselves. Many people enjoy watching football and want to share the love of the sport by inviting people to join in getting a ticket. However, it is difficult to have someone enjoy football, when people do not respect each other’s time and space during a game. These are not difficult rules meant to stump anyone. Instead, it is a good refresher that these football games are just games. The love for the sport should be respected, just as the people and surrounding areas should be as well.

East vs. West: The enduring rivalry between App State and East Carolina

Chance Chamberline | Associate Sports Editor

More than 90 years ago, Appalachian State Teachers College kicked off in Boone against Eastern Carolina Teachers College Nov. 11, 1932. The Mountaineers protected

their home turf with a 21-0 victory. From the High Country to the coastal plains in Greenville, this rivalry still holds true in 2023.

The Mountaineers dominated the

East-West series in the 1930s as App State won their first 10 matchups. The win streak is highlighted by a dominant 64-0 victory on Nov. 25, 1939, under the lights in Morganton. The following day, the Asheville Citizen-Times described the game as “Boonemen Beat E.C.T.C Eleven In Night Scrap.”

App State-ECU was a yearly matchup from 1948-62 and 1972-79. After the 1979 Pirates 38-21 victory in Boone, the series paused for 30 years until resuming in 2009, where the Pirates added to their four-game series win streak in Greenville.

Mountaineer quarterback Jamal Londry-Jackson experienced both away games in 2009 and 2012. As an 18-year-old redshirt in 2009, LondryJackson saw the rivalry from a firsthand perspective on the sidelines.

“We embraced the rivalry, but we focused on creating our own mark,”

Londry-Jackson said. “At that time we were only a year removed from the three-peat so you could feel, and hear the confidence of believing we were the best team in the state of North Carolina. We wanted to show it against ECU. It was a demanding but amazing culture to be a part of.”

Starting quarterback Armanti Edwards missed the 2009 season opener against the Pirates with an injury. Even without their star player, the Mountaineers fought back from a 24-0 deficit, but their comeback fell short 29-24.

“The only thing that kind of took the wind out of our sails was Armanti not being able to play,” Londry-

Jackson said. “And we all know the kind of impact he had.”

The once redshirt quarterback in 2009 was now starting in 2012, in front of 49,023 East Carolina fans. Londry-Jackson, along with the returning 2009 players, had a newfound perspective; to wipe away the loss from three years ago.

“In 2012, we wanted to win. Point blank,” Londry-Jackson said. “Majority of the team experienced 2009, so we were on a mission for a different outcome.”

Along with the competitive drive while playing in front of nearly 50,000 fans and avenging a close loss, Londry-Jackson grew up alongside

“We wanted to show it against ECU.”

- Jamal Londry-Jackson

September 13, 2023

Pirates starting quarterback Rio Johnson. The two Atlanta kids going head-to-head in Greenville elevated the competitive atmosphere to extraordinary levels.

While the Black and Gold lost 35-13, the scoreboard doesn’t tell the full story. App State outgained the Pirates on offense with 419 total yards while East Carolina totaled 390 yards. The Pirates scored 14 points on two plays: a 45-yard touchdown fumble recovery and a 90-yard kickoff return touchdown.

“That one stings because we came out strong, but had a couple of plays that swung moments,” LondryJackson said. “I know for sure there are some plays I want back from that game.”

After 2012, the series was dormant once again until 2017, when both programs agreed upon a four-game series. The 2021 game held at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte highlighted the series.

“The chance for App State to host a home game in an NFL Stadium, where our largest alumni base is and against a program like ECU is a great opportunity for our student athletes, alumni and fans,” App State Athletics director Doug Gillin said in 2017.

In front of 36,752 fans, the historic rivalry reached new heights as both teams kicked off their 2021 season.

“It was an unreal atmosphere. App State fans love their football, and so do ECU fans, to be fair,” former Mountaineer wide receiver Thomas Hennigan said. “Luke Combs in the house, Matt Rhule was there and we got after the boys in purple pretty good.”

The Black and Gold broke East Carolina’s six-game win streak dating back to 1976. App State ran away with a 33-19 victory, as former quarterback Chase Brice made his first start as a Mountaineer. Brice connected with Hennigan for a touchdown in the first quarter to set the tone early. This helped App State pave the way to extend their overall series lead over East Carolina 20-12.

“Games within your own state mean a little bit more. Especially between programs with a similar history,” Hennigan said. “I think bragging rights are more important to teams that are geographically close.”

The Pirates will travel to Boone Sept. 16 for their second game of the four-game series agreement. It’ll be East Carolina’s first time playing

in Boone since 1979. They’ll be welcomed back with a sold-out Family Weekend crowd. At Sun Belt Media Day, head coach Shawn Clark said he expects that Kidd Brewer Stadium’s previous attendance record of 40,168 fans set against North Carolina in 2022 will be broken.

“It’s great for college football, it’s great for the state of North Carolina,” Clark said.

While App State and East Carolina have their differences off the field, they share similarities on the field. Both teams will be starting new quarterbacks for the 2023 season. Before the Sept. 16 kickoff, both teams are scheduled to play away Power Five games. App State played against North Carolina Sept. 9, and East Carolina traveled to the Big House Sept. 2 to play Michigan.

The 33rd game between these two programs will allow players and coaches to add their mark on the historic in-state rivalry.

Home away from home: Coaches find their way back

After a troubled 2022 season, App State football returned to their roots and brought back two familiar faces to the Mountaineer sidelines.

“When coach Clark called, it was gonna be tough to turn down,” defensive coordinator Scott Sloan said about returning to the High Country. “A lot of it had to do with the first eight years.”

Sloan played defensive back at Clemson from 1989-91 where he helped lead the Tigers to the 1991 Atlantic Coast Conference Championship, as well as three bowl game appearances. After hanging up the cleats, Sloan began his coaching career as a video graduate assistant at Clemson in 1992.

He stayed with the Tigers until 1995 as a graduate assistant before serving as defensive coordinator and recruiting coordinator at Georgia Military College. In 2002, Sloan became the defensive backs coach at Georgia Southern. Following four seasons with the Eagles, Sloan turned to the high school ranks, coaching at Griffin High School and Riverside Military Academy in Georgia.

“He has coordinated successful defense with multiple programs, and he will instill a tough, sound, disciplined approach for our defense moving forward,” head coach Shawn Clark said.

App State first hired Sloan in 2010 as secondary coach. After his first season with the Black and Gold, Sloan became recruiting coordinator in addition to his responsibilities as secondary coach. In 2017, Sloan was elevated to co-defensive coordinator. During the 2017 season, seven Mountaineer defensive players received All-Sun Belt Honors and captured the program’s second Sun Belt title.

Sloan returned to Georgia Southern in 2018 as defensive coordinator and safeties coach. The 2020 Eagles led the nation in interceptions with 18, and ranked 14th in total defense. In 2022, Sloan coached at Army West Point as co-

Ponce starts his first year with App State football after previously serving as University of Miami’s quarterback coach during the 2022 season.

(Courtesy

defensive coordinator and safeties coach.

Sloan returns to High Country following Dale Jones’ departure following the 2022 campaign. Last season, the Mountaineer defense allowed 347 yards of offense and over 33 points per game to Sun Belt opponents.

“He prioritizes us to run to the football, playing with a high motor and everybody doing their job,” redshirt senior linebacker Andrew Parker Jr. said. “At the end of the day, it’s about getting the guy on the ground and getting the ball back to the offense.”

Sloan inherits a defense looking to bounce back off a disappointing season where they struggled to get off the field on third down.

“They want to be coached, they want to be led, they want to be pointed in the right direction and anything we asked of them this spring they really responded to,” Sloan said. “Just really impressed with where they are as far as

“I’m truly excited to be back on the mountain,” Ponce said. “Boone holds many wonderful memories and moments for me, and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to make more.”

Ponce steps in as former offensive coordinator Kevin Barbay accepted the same position at Mississippi State.

Ponce played quarterback from 1989-90 at Arizona Western College prior to entering the coaching ranks. His first opportunity came at La Progresiva Presbyterian High School in Miami.

Ponce coached at the high school level in various roles from 1992-2006, and in 2007 he got his first college coaching position as wide receivers coach at Florida International University. During his six seasons with the Golden Panthers, Ponce coached six of the top 10 receivers in school history, including four-time NFL Pro Bowler T.Y. Hilton.

passing game coordinator and quarterbacks coach under former head coach Scott Satterfield.

From 2019-20, Ponce served as passing game coordinator and quarterbacks coach at the University of Louisville after Satterfield accepted the head coaching position. In 2021, Ponce returned for his second stint with the Mountaineers as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. After departing for a season, Ponce rejoined the staff in January.

“I love Boone,” Ponce said. “Miami is home, Boone is home, so I’m home away from home.”

a mental standpoint.”

Offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Frank Ponce spent last season as quarterbacks coach at Miami before returning to Boone.

“Frank’s resume speaks for itself, and he knows what it takes to win championships at App State,” Clark said. “I’m glad to have him back directing our offense and quarterback room.”

Ponce began his first tenure with the university in 2013, when he joined the staff as co-offensive coordinator,

Ponce returns to an offense loaded with talent across the board. Junior running back Nate Noel was named to preseason watchlists for the Doak Walker Award for the nation’s best running back, the Maxwell Award for most outstanding player in college football and the Reese’s Senior Bowl. Offensive lineman Bucky Williams and Isaiah Helms were named to Outland Trophy watchlist for most outstanding interior offensive or defensive lineman. “The kids here at App State are phenomenal,” Ponce said. “They don’t care as long as we win.”

“Miami is home, Boone is home, so I’m home away from home.”Frank Ponce

Mumu Guisasola: soccer star and team sister

Asher Davidson | Reporter

The motto for all App State students is that we give our all for App State. For most, that might be doing well in classes, but for athletes it means pushing their body to the limits in order to bring home fame and glory.

Mumu Guisasola, a senior starting defender for the App State women’s soccer team, is an example of the dedication, perseverance and commitment App State requires of its athletes. On the field, Guisasola commands the defense, often playing the full 90 minutes. In 2022, she set a season record of 110 minutes played against Marshall in the Sun Belt Tournament, according to App State Athletics.

Guisasola started her soccer career early at the age of 5. Like many kids, she stumbled into soccer while playing a wide range of sports, even ballet. Guisasola said when she, her parents and her coaches saw that she was particularly good at soccer, she continued playing.

As she progressed through her career in her hometown of Miami, high school coaches recruited her for their schools. She eventually chose to play all four seasons of her high school career at Our Lady of Lourdes Academy. In 2016, Guisasola helped her team claim first place in the Disney Showcase qualifier, and again in 2017 as a semifinalist.

When the university called Guisasola and offered her to play

soccer at a Division I school in the mountains, it was everything she was looking for and she committed to the Mountaineers in 2020.

“It’s more than me just being good at the sport, these girls on the team, they become your sisters,” Guisasola said. “You’re with them 24/7, you are doing the same thing all the time together, they become your family.”

Guisasola started 13 of the 16 appearances in her freshman season. In the last 10 matches of the season in the fall and spring, she started on the field and ranked fifth in minutes played on the team.

Her first time starting on an App State field was against the Pennsylvania Institute of Technology as a freshman.

“When I first stepped on the field I was very nervous,” Guisasola said. She was used to playing against girls that were her age, meaning they all were mostly 18 and younger, but now she was on the field with athletic 20-22 year-old players and played at a higher level for a lot longer, Guisasola said.

Fortunately for her, the Black and Gold also had experienced players who took Guisasola under their wings for that first game, and helped her learn the ropes quickly and fight as hard as she could.

“I need to let them lead me and follow and not be stuck behind the pack,” Guisasola said. “It was very scary first stepping on, I think after game three or game four I started to gain more confidence when I played and learning how to use my body when I played was key.”

Now going into her fourth season, Guisasola is one of those experienced players who the incoming freshmen look up to and take their advice from.

She takes this responsibility very seriously, and every day Guisasola strives to make her teammates feel welcome.

“You have to put the girls before you, you have to put their feelings before you,” Guisasola said.

Guisasola attributes a large part of the team culture to the new coaching staff. She said head coach Aimee Haywood and assistant coaches Mark Catterall, Mikayla Krzeczowski and Emilene Parham helped the team become who they are today, and that the staff has fostered a culture of support amongst all the players. Haywood sees Guisasola as a passionate backbone of the team.

“Mumu brings charisma and passion to the team dynamic,” Haywood said. “She is always positive and energetic. A heartbeat of the team.”

For Guisasola, making sure everyone feels heard and like their opinions matter is the most important part of making sure newer team members are welcomed.

“Regardless of soccer, regardless of the score of the game, regardless of any outcome that we get, what are your thoughts, what are your feelings and bring them into the conversation,” Guisasola said.

To her, every player has earned their spot on the team and “there is not one day that their presence goes unnoticed.” By recognizing everyone’s importance, Guisasola believes it empowers all the players to give every practice and game their all, and leave everything they have on the field.

Other players notice this level of energy and appreciation Guisasola brings to everything the team does.

Kaitlyn Little, another senior defender, has played with Guisasola for the last three years, since they were freshmen.

When arriving at App State, Guisasola was open-minded to Boone and everything it had to offer and that helped Little be more open-minded to what the year had to offer them.

“Mumu, in a lot of ways over the years, I think, in one word if you

needed to sum it up is she has been very courageous through this whole thing,” Little said. “She handled it with the utmost courage of anyone I have ever known.”

On the team, Little has seen Guisasola make sure all the freshmen are heard and appreciated. For Little, that reassuring presence will be missed when Guisasola graduates.

“Mumu is the ultimate hype woman,” Little said. “No matter what happens to her, or what challenges she is facing she puts them down and she puts her teammates first.”

Working as a team, sometimes things just don’t go your way. Rather than let that take all the wind out of her sails and crush the team’s spirits, Guisasola sees every loss, tie or any other form of result that is different from what she wanted as an opportunity to learn, grow and become better.

“The coaches that we have don’t let us sit on our downfall that much,” Guisasola said.

After each game, Guisasola reviews

what went well and what can be improved on. If the defense was strong in a particular game, then the team focuses on improving their offense and attacking.

“In every team meeting and scouting report session, Mumu always brings a word of motivation and encouragement at the end,” Haywood said. “This is not pre-planned or instructed, just genuine buy-in and heart from her and passion for getting her teammates fired up and ready to play.”

In the game however, Guisasola says she is never thinking about what needs to be improved for the next game. She is focused 100% on “defending like hell.”

“You can’t give up this moment right now, you have to keep going,” Guisasola said.

A great example of this is the game against High Point University Aug. 27. To her, the team fought hard all game, but the score, 0-0, just didn’t go their way.

“The last five or 10 minutes of that game my body was completely numb. The only thing that was actually working was my brain, and I really couldn’t feel anything,” Guisasola said.

However, when Guisasola plays, the best thing for her is hearing the fans on the sidelines cheering. She said because she plays a defender on the sidelines, she often hears them yell

“Go 22” or her signature nickname

“Go double dose.”

In the future, Guisasola believes she is prepared to help make wherever she works the best it can be. She sees her time here on the soccer team as practice for working with bosses and being a crucial part of a team.

“When Mumu leaves there will be a large hole to fill when it comes to vocal leadership and personality,” Haywood said. “At the end of the day Mumu brings so much love to what she is doing. She loves this program, each and every teammate, each and every coach, and she loves playing. That love is truly special and hard to replace.”