The Patriot- Fall 2023 Issue 2

BY: SYDNEY SCHWENKE STAFF WRITER

Make the Mid ‘Mid’ Again Student Opinions on the BCC Mid Level’s Renovations

The middle level of the Boswell Campus Center (BCC), affectionately dubbed the “Mid,” has undergone several renovations and changes over the summer. Classes have been in session for weeks now, and University of the Cumberlands’ students are taking full advantage of all the Mid offers. Changes in seating, more space, a huge LCD panel TV, various game tables, and a light-up photo opportunity are all a part of the Mid’s makeover.

Because of the TV and game tables, the Mid has become a much louder place. One can usually find students who want a place to spend time with friends talking and playing games. It is a safe space for those who want to have fun and stay out later at night or take a break in the middle of the day. However, there are many differing perspectives on the Mid’s fresh look. Most firstyear students specifically have a different perspective than sophomores and upperclassmen who remember the way the Mid was before.

When asked about their opinions on the new renovations, freshmen say, “[they] love the TV [and] playing ping-pong with [their] friends.” Most freshmen “think it’s a fun environment” and that “[they’re] utterly and com-

BY: CAGE GRUBB PRINT MANAGING EDITOR

pletely indifferent based on the fact that [they] have no idea what it was like.” First-year students have not experienced the Mid before the renovations that other students on campus have and, therefore, have no thoughts on the shift in mood. Students who have experienced the “old” Mid have varying opinions on the space’s new atmosphere than the freshmen.

Many upperclassmen say that “the new Mid is a good addition to campus only if the atmosphere of the old Mid can be found somewhere else. At the moment, it can’t.” Other sophomores explain that “[they] think that the new booths in the Mid aren’t good for an allaround study discussion.” The Mid has become an area where students can no longer go to study and relax because of the overstimulating noises and movement. The Mid used to offer a “mellow” atmosphere for students to both hang out with friends and study for class. Now, students must go to the library to find a quiet spot on campus to study and hang out with friends.

Could taking away the Mid’s quiet atmosphere lead to a louder, more crowded library? The library could become overcrowded since many students have to find a new place to study. In previous years, the Boswell Campus Center and library have shared a unique relationship as students wishing for a more relaxed yet stu-

dious environment would station themselves at the BCC. At the same time, those looking for a quiet, calm space would head to the library. By removing the calmer aspects of the Mid, students have become dependent on the library as the prime spot to study on campus. Students who wish to study feel their only option is the library.

Not all students on campus dislike the Mid’s new atmosphere, as many students say, “[they] like it because it’s more open and inviting to have fun in the Mid and hopefully will make the library quieter.” While the library dedicates itself to giving students an environment to study, it ironically has a reputation for getting loud. Perhaps the renovated Mid will take away from the loudness of the library and return it to its status of a quiet place to study.

By having a specific place on campus for friends to hang out, the library and other popular study spots will retain their studious atmospheres. While the campus seems divided on the Mid’s new look, one thing is sure: the BCC has become the university’s version of a student center. This area has become the center of campus life for students and, as in years past, acts as the halfway point between the residential and academic sides of campus. Regardless of its appearance, this space will continue serving students in the future.

The Strike in Hollywood

Actors Fight for Better Working Conditions

All eyes are on the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) dispute with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). This dispute, which has led to an ongoing strike, is over labor conditions for actors and film crews who are a part of the SAG-AFTRA union, which currently totals over 160,000 individuals. Over 98 percent of SAG-AFTRA members approved the strike, halting countless film and television productions. This outcome means that all major studios have yet to film any new or ongoing productions since the beginning of the strike on July 14, 2023.

Although working conditions have been the primary cause of this dispute, many actors have taken the strike as an opportunity to expose and fight against the unfair monetary contracts they enter into. One well-known actress, Mandy Moore, explains that she receives small amounts of royalties for her popular television series, “This Is Us.” Moore says in an interview with

CNN that she receives checks of 81 cents for her contributions to the six-season, Emmy-nominated show. Other actors, such as Meryl Streep, Jennifer Lawrence, and Ben Stiller, signed a letter declaring their support for the union, saying they “are prepared to strike.”

Despite the months-long strike, the SAG-AFTRA union and AMPTP have not settled

the dispute. As of September 27, negotiations will resume between the two organizations on October 2. Until the groups negotiate a settlement, newer entertainment content will not be available for consumers to view. However, smaller studios not a part of the AMPTP have formed contracts with the SAG-AFTRA, effectively allowing union members to continue to work while striking against the larger studios that dominate Hollywood.

Perhaps the greatest example of this is “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour,” which was filmed and produced following SAG-AFTRA-approved guidelines. Swift’s concert film, which will be released on October 13, is one of the only approved SAG-AFTRA projects to complete filming during the ongoing strike. Consequently, this shows that other studios can meet the SAG-AFTRA demands despite negotiations lasting for several months.

The thought of a Hollywood-centered strike may seem insignificant for students at the

PHOTOS BY SUMMER MILLS

PHOTO COURTESY OF UNSPLASH

Letter From the Editor in Chief

Hello Patriots!

I hope that everyone has had a great start to the semester. I know how crazy it seems that it is already October. We just started classes and this first bi-term is almost over with. It is crazy how much time flies. I am so excited that we are getting into the fall season though. I cannot wait for all of the leaves to change and for cooler weather. This statement is going to be very stereotypical but I love wearing comfy sweaters and drinking coffee to warm me up. With the fall season being upon us that also means Halloween is so soon! Halloween is one of my favorite holidays from cute pumpkin patch dates, to baking pumpkin pies, and watching scary movies. It is all around one of the best time of years, especially to spend time with the people you love.

I would also just love to take a minute to introduce myself. My name is Summer Mills and I am from Barbourville, Kentucky. I am double majoring in English Literary Studies and Communication Arts with an emphasis in Journalism. I love reading and writing. The campus newspaper has basically been my entire life since the beginning of last year. In fall of 2022 I became the managing editor of the paper and chose to put everything into the work and it has certainly paid off for me. I found a passion for the industry and realized this is something I love doing.

I am just so excited to be the editor- in- chief this year. I love working alongside our advisor, Jeremiah Massengale, and our managing editors Cage Grubb and Emilia Martínez Morales. Our team has done so much and we cannot wait to continue pushing boundaries. I want to represent everyone on campus and be a voice for all of our students through this outlet. Email or direct message us if you have any ideas that you would like us to write about or topics you want us to cover.

Have a good fall, y’all!

Summer Mills

SAG STRIKE

FROM PAGE A1

University of the Cumberlands. However, this strike shows students, staff, and faculty alike the importance of a union and the benefits a union can have in improving working conditions, pay, and overall treatment. For seniors preparing to enter the workforce, this display shows unions’ essential role in protecting workers. The strike may even inspire students to pursue a career that has a union.

Staff

Faculty Advisor

Jeremiah Massengale

Editor- in- Chief

Summer Mills

Print Managing Editor

Cage Grubb

Digital Managing Editor

Emilia Martínez Morales

Staff Writers

Ally Kennedy

Kamryn Keith

Shayra Calderon

Sydney Schwenke

Staff Photographers

Brittany Smith

Khebrion Puchoon

For other students, this strike means that fan-favorite television shows and films may not return to the screen for the foreseeable future. Since the two groups have yet to negotiate new terms and contracts, students may notice a lack of new content on several streaming services and theaters. Nevertheless, this drought in new entertainment is a sign of hope for hundreds of thousands of workers fighting for better working conditions and pay.

All Things Williamsburg

3.

PHOTO COURTESY OF UNSPLASH

BY: SHAYRA CALDERON STAFF WRITER

Growing Stronger Every Year

The Story of UC’s Women’s Wrestling Team

The University of the Cumberlands added women’s wrestling as a sport during the 1998-1999 season, with only three girls being original team members. Initially, there were only six weight classes in the women’s division; there are now ten. Women’s wrestling was not as popular among college students as it is now. Only one other college offered women’s wrestling when UC began to offer the sport. Today, there are over 30 colleges that offer women’s wrestling.

Assistant coach Jay Perez explains that “the growth of high school wrestling has triggered a growth in youth wrestling, which has made college wrestling more competitive and [has given] girls the opportunity to wrestle more in college.” Women’s wrestling has become one of the fastest-growing sports in high schools nationwide, allowing colleges to begin recruiting for their teams. At the University of the Cumberlands, there are over 50 girls on the roster; the team that started with three girls has now exceed-

ed all expectations and continues to grow each year.

Over the years, the women’s wrestling team has acquired over 40 All-Americans and countless team accomplishments. Assistant coach Jesse Kirby says that “[he] feel[s] like we already ha[ve] a good foundation and we [are] just expanding on it. We have great returners that are going to continue working hard, and we brought in a great group of freshmen and transfer[s]. We are going to make waves.” The key component to having a good team is having a good environment and team atmosphere. The women’s wrestling team at the University of the Cumberlands does many team activities that help develop close bonds and a family-like environment.

Although people perceive wrestling as a very dangerous sport that causes several injuries, the sport produces fewer injuries than expected. During practices coaches show wrestlers ways to prevent injury and avoid hurting others. However, injuries are not always avoidable, which is

why athletic trainers are essential assets to not only the women’s wrestling team but every team at the University of the Cumberlands. Hannah England, one of the athletic trainers at UC, does her best to ensure that an athlete heals fully before returning to physical activity.

This year, UC’s women’s wrestling team has a new head coach, Sarah Allen. Allen is 28 years old, from Huber Heights, Ohio, and has wrestled for 16 years. Before earning her head coach spot, this UC alumni was the women’s wrestling team assistant coach for many years. Allen says that “[she] [is] excited to be taking over where [she] wrestled at and that it is exciting to look forward and move into a positive environment with a great group of girls.” The women’s wrestling team has come a long way since 1999 and continues growing yearly. Ultimately, this team has a stellar attitude toward their future and the growth of women’s wrestling, which makes them one of UC’s most exceptional groups.

The Patriots Take on the Grizzlies

The Battle for Another Point

BY: KAMRYN KEITH STAFF WRITER

The University of the Cumberlands tied with Georgia Gwinnett for a final score of 1-1. In the first half of the match, Cumberlands and Gwinnett battled, each trying to gain the lead first. Since they were so aggressive, the referees called multiple fouls. Both teams seemed nervous initially, but the nerves began to settle down once the game continued. As the first half ended, both teams held their positions and fought for control of the ball, each team hoping to score a point. With great teamwork by Jesus Macaya and Shuma Sasaki, they got the ball to Mario Fernandez. Once he got the ball, he was persistent and scored the game’s first goal of the night. This goal put UC ahead as both teams headed off the field for halftime.

During halftime, the teams went to their locker rooms and rested up. Coaches prepped the players for the second half. Gwinnett started off strong in the second

half with multiple attempts to score a goal. Even with their integrity to achieve, they could not make it past the Cumberlands goalkeeper, Bradon Diaz, who continuously blocked their shots. Georgia Gwinnett started to get frustrated. They were becoming more aggressive and determined. The second half was full of energy as both teams continued to fight for control over the ball and to score the game’s next point. The goalkeepers were not letting anything through, though. Referees handed out many yellow cards throughout the game’s latter half. The hindrances did not stop the men’s sense of purpose. Both teams wanted to win, and neither gave up without a fight. In one instance, Georgia Gwinnett had the ball in their possession, and, amid their struggle, they scored. Which is when the game became tied, 1-1.

As the game came to an end, everyone was on the edge of their seat, watching and waiting to see what would happen. As the game ended, however, the scoreboard still read 1-1, the teams had tied. Although it was disappointing that the Patriots could not take the win, the team fought hard. Cumberlands had an overall strong defense and a powerful offense despite the game ending in a tie. Overall, the match was exciting for both players to participate in and for the audience to watch. The stats of the game were almost all even. Both teams took seven shots each, while each goalie made a total of two blocks. Cumberlands ended with

only one yellow card given to them, while Gwinnett ended with three. These teams wanted to win and were very determined to do so. Since the two teams were insistent on taking the victory, neither let up in their competition. The Cumberlands soccer team, in the middle of their season, is doing well. Their stats are 4-3-1: Four wins, three ties, and only one loss. Their season, however, is not over yet, as the Patriots have many more games to play. By looking at their already overwhelming stats, these Patriots may end their season with an impressive number of wins. For students interested in seeing the men’s soccer team in action, check out their schedule on the PATSRewards app.

PHOTO COURTESY OF UC WOMEN’S WRESTLING

PHOTOS COURTESY OF UC MEN’S SOCCER

Not a Barbie Girl in a Barbie World

It Is Not Fantastic Being Plastic

BY: ALLY KENNEDY STAFF WRITER

“Barbie” took the world by storm this summer, quickly becoming one of the year’s most successful films. Unlike the Barbie everyone is used to, many people relate to her character because she embodies a modern-day woman. Many believe that her struggles are related to their own. The contrast between Barbie’s seemingly perfect life and her concerns about death is an excellent example of real-life struggles. Throughout the film, there are many themes, such as growing up, dealing with mental health, and understanding modern-day feminism, that many audiences resonate with. However, some ideologies seemed a bit more unrealistic, such as the characterizations of all the men.

The “Barbie” movie pits men and women against one another as both sides are fighting for power rather than going after equality. From Barbie’s journey to the real world and then back home to Barbie Land, the producers portray men as egotistical beings because that is the stereotype. In the movie the majority of the Ken’s look down on women and see them as objects. The “Barbie” movie only represents one good guy named Alan. Every other man in the film pressures Barbie to live up to a standard of something she does not want to be. In the real world, while many men are anti-feminist, others disagree with

the traditional views of the patriarchy and fight for women to have the same rights as themselves. There are, however, some aspects of the movie that feel remarkably familiar to the human perspective. One can relate Barbie’s journey to the real world to one’s own life. The fear of leaving her comfort zone to find herself is a terrifying reality many persevere through daily. The unfortunate truth behind how men and women judge other women is also made known. Perhaps the most outstanding instance of the presence of the

human experience, however, was when America Ferrera’s character, Gloria, talks about the paradox of womanhood. Audiences resonated with Gloria’s commentary on the pressure society puts on women to be perfect. While the movie does seem a bit anti-man at times, the message is ultimately about how men and women must work together to form an equal society. The film’s portrayal of society’s expectations of women makes “Barbie” one of the most impactful films of the decade.

Overall, this movie has a powerful message about finding oneself. Although, at times, it felt a little too political for a film about dolls, it was a humorous experience that many audiences found captivating. While Barbie has been around for many decades, it was nice to see a new side of her. Truthfully, it was refreshing to see an onscreen woman explore and deal with the problems that women in the real world face. Margot Robbie’s portrayal of Barbie offers young girls and women everywhere a role model to look up to because of how open and honest she plays her character. The film not only portrays the struggles faced by women but also shows everyone how important femininity is and the power it has over the world.

Try Something Different

Local Restaurants in Williamsburg

BY: ALLY KENNEDY STAFF WRITER

Williamsburg, Kentucky, home of the University of the Cumberlands, is a relatively small town. While a few chain restaurants are across the city, it can sometimes feel as if there are no authentic places to go. This assumption could not be further from the truth, as Williamsburg hosts many great, locally-owned restaurants for residents to enjoy. Restaurants such as The Brick Oven, G&E Burgers, Moonbow Mercantile, Grits & Grace, and Kendall’s Kitchen are fun, vibrant places to eat, with each restaurant’s unique culture and aesthetic.

Although many of these restaurants may go unnoticed, many locals enjoy going and eating at these delicious establishments. One of the most exciting things about local independent restaurants is that they are specifically themed and provide their customers with special foods and services. For instance, The Brick Oven offers a unique menu of traditional wood-fired pizzas. The use of a wood-fired oven distinguishes these pizzas

from those of other chain restaurants in town. The Brick Oven also served sub sandwiches and chicken wings. The various foods served at this establishment make The Brick Oven one of Williamsburg’s most popular restaurants. G&E Burgers is another local restaurant many residents love to eat at because of their Americano menu and the scenic views. This establishment’s menu includes various burgers, Philly cheesesteaks, and catfish dinners. G&E is a popular spot during the summer because of its scenic view of the Cumberland River and the beautiful Appalachian Mountains. G&E has been in business since 1969 and is consistently the ‘Best Burger in Town.’ The beautiful view and fantastic food make G&E a special place for many who call Williamsburg home.

Moonbow Mercantile is yet another local business in town that serves the community in its unique way. While the establishment does serve food and homemade ice cream, it also doubles as a store. At Moonbow Mercantile, they offer dishes with fun names like “Train Whistle Turkey” and “Mamaw’s Grilled Cheese” while selling cute lit

tle souvenirs. Interestingly, the restaurant’s name derives from the moonbow at Cumberland Falls. University of the Cumberlands students can use meal swipes to purchase some items on the Moonbow Mercantile’s menu. This shop is one of the most unique places in Williamsburg because of the blend of college life and Williamsburg history.

As of this year, Williamsburg has gained an independent breakfast spot: Grits and Grace. This lovely little restaurant serves various breakfast items, from breakfast tacos to avocado toast. On Tuesday, September 26, they even had a deal for National Pancake Day. They only charged $1 per pancake! While the menu, culture, and prices set this establishment apart, its most distinguishing characteristic is that Lily Hamilton, a University of the Cumberlands student, owns and operates the business. Her hard work and dedication helped to make Grits and Grace the premier breakfast spot.

Williamsburg has many local businesses waiting to be discovered. The fast-food restaurants in town may seem appealing, but exploring the locally-owned restaurants throughout the city offers the opportunity to try something different. Visiting these hometown establishments not only provides the chance to try new food but also shows the owners of these restaurants that the local community is supporting them.

PHOTOS BY BRITTANY SMITH

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMANDA GAULT

PHOTO COURTESY OF MADALYNN COX