Fourteen freshmen and a professor from Appalachian State University hauled in 68 tires Sept. 23 during the annual New River Big Sweep River Cleanup sponsored by the National Committee for the New River and New River State Park. The students are part of an outdoor living group learning community and enrolled together in a freshman seminar and an introduction to recreation and leisure course. Canoes and shuttle were provided by Riverside Canoe and Tube Rentals. (Photos courtesy of Appalachian professor Wayne Williams)

BOONE—Cellist Jack W. Turner will present a recital Oct. 5 at 8 p.m. in Broyhill Music Center’s Rosen Concert Hall at Appalachian State University. Admission is free and the public is invited. [more]

HICKORY – The public is invited to celebrate with homeowner Frances Thompson Oct. 6 as she prepares to move into North Carolina’s first Zero Energy Home (ZEH), constructed by Catawba Valley Habitat for Humanity with the help of the Appalachian State University Energy Center and N.C. State Energy Office. [more]

BOONE—Three compositions are the focus of the Oct. 8 performance of the Appalachian Symphony Orchestra at Appalachian State University. [more]

More than 150 Appalachian State University students learned about starting their own business during the Extreme Entrepreneur Tour that visited campus. Adam Witty, pictured, started a business out of his dorm room at age 19. [more]

BOONE—North Carolina Poet Laureate Kathryn Stripling Byer will read from her work Thursday, Oct. 5, at Appalachian State University. The reading begins at 7:30 p.m. in Plemmons Student Union’s Table Rock Room and is part of the Hughlene Bostian Frank Visiting Writers Series. [more]

BOONE—Harpist Jacquelyn Bartlett is the featured performer during the Faculty Recital Series’ “Harp Dedication Concert” Oct. 3 at Appalachian State University. [more]