By Pruett Norris & Elliott Klappenbach
In campus news, according to AppalachianToday, an Appalachian State professor was awarded a 2022 to 2023 Fulbright grant to spend the spring 2023 semester abroad in the nation of Jordan. Dr. Katherine Ledford is a professor of Appalachian studies, and will be bringing two courses to Al-Ahliyya Amman University: an undergraduate on Appalachian literature and a graduate on comparative mountain studies. Dr. Ledford will be teaching under the American literature banner, and seeks to “advance knowledge across cultures” through the study of Appalachian literature, which “often challenges American stereotypes.” Congratulations Dr. Ledford, and best of luck overseas!
Locally, and in arts and culture news, the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country is closing out its rom-com series of classic movies this month with the 1990 Julia Roberts hit “Pretty Woman,” according to the High Country Press. “Pretty Woman” is a classic of the genre, pairing Julia’s rising star with Richard Gere as the male lead, and remains one of the most successful romantic comedies of all time. The screening will be on Tuesday, February 21st at 7pm. Tickets are $6, and can be purchased online or at the box office.
In national tidings, according to NPR, a proposal has been raised to remove the white-feathered, grey-headed wood stork from the Endangered Species List now that it has recovered to significant numbers in Florida and other Southern states. The bird was close to extinction in 1984, and now, four decades later, has nearly doubled its population. The Endangered Species Act, which has been largely responsible for protecting the wood stork, celebrates 50 years this year. If the wood stork is delisted, it’ll remain protected under other laws, as well as remain under five years of observation to make sure all is well.
And now, sports!
The USATF indoor championship is happening tomorrow, App State's indoor track team is participating in it, best of luck to them. The men's basketball team plays its first of 2 remaining home games tomorrow night at 630 against Texas State. Also tomorrow night women's volleyball plays at Old Dominion at 630 as well. Friday marks the start of App State’s baseball season when they play Queens University at home, opening pitch is scheduled for 5pm. Best of luck to App State baseball. I hope it’s a great season.
In professional sports news, the Carolina Hurricanes have their big outdoor stadium series game this Saturday. They just came off a win vs the Capitals last night and will play them again in Carter Finley stadium Saturday at 8pm.
Finally, the weather as ever from Boone Weather DOT COM. We have a high of 62 today and a low of merely 49 degrees, so enjoy this warm weather before we get showers again later this week!