University of the Cumberlands Student Newspaper
Fall Awakening Disciples in the Making
BY: SYDNEY SCHWENKE STAFF WRITER
Fall Awakening is a three-night event hosted by Campus Ministries. Students gathered together for lawn games, fall snacks, and worship. Matt Jolley spoke on the topic of discipleship, which he is passionate about. He serves as a Global Service Associates missionary in North Carolina with his wife, Crystal Jolley. They have developed a discipleship planner as a tool for Christians.
Dr. Jacob Ratliff, Campus Minister at the University of the Cumberlands, says that discipleship “Is to teach and model the commands of Christ for one another.” He also stated that discipleship is “helping others see what the Bible says about Jesus.” In short, being a disciple means to model one’s life after Christ’s to honor him and to encourage others to as well.
Laney Fultz, a freshman who is taking
BY: JUDIT GARRETA YUSTE STAFF WRITER
Dr. Ratliff’s Christian Leadership class, describes discipleship as “leadership and fellowship.” Fultz says that living out the concept of discipleship looks like, “a group of people [who are] all kind of supporting each other and being leaders to each other.” She also echoed Ratliff’s belief that Christians disciple each other so that they can make more disciples to spread the gospel of Jesus.
Chandler Wilson, another freshman at UC, who is enrolled in Dr. Ratliff’s Christian Leadership class said, “discipleship is important for the personal growth of Christians.” Wilson and other students in the class have been using the discipleship planner written by the Jolleys. Wilson said that it has been beneficial for him personally and in the context of going through it with others in class.
Dr. Jacob Ratliff described the way that Matt Jolley became connected at Cumberlands
Trick or Treat
as “actually kind of crazy.” Jolley has previously done some ministry loosely with the University of Kentucky’s baseball team and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. The FCA director encouraged him to drop by Cumberlands after a visit. This unplanned visit led to Jolley speaking for UC’s Fall Awakening.
Matt Jolley works as a missionary at a church in North Carolina serving with their college ministry. Jacob Ratliff and Cumberlands FCA Director, Matthew Plementosh, invited Jolley to be the Fall Awakening keynote speaker because, as Ratliff said, “He is a good communicator, he’s really passionate about teaching the Bible, and he’s really passionate about helping students discover a love for discipleship.”
Matt Jolley spoke on some of the benefits of discipleship, and he encouraged students to answer the question, “what does God want from my life?”. His heart for the students is imminent through his vulnerability in sharing how Jesus saved him and in the way he encouraged UC students to be faithful disciples of Jesus.
Lane Roberts, a Cumberlands junior who attended Fall Awakening said that he has been learning about spiritual care in his Missions and Ministry Caring for Others class. Roberts noted that Jolley referenced some of what he had learned in class. One of these lessons is that, “the act of someone pouring into you is so important to maintain mental and spiritual health in general.”
Roberts said that he would absolutely encourage other students to attend upcoming Fall Awakening and Spring Renewal events which are great opportunities to meet new people and to grow.
Reslife Department Shows up for the Community
BY NICHOLAS JACKSON
As Halloween approaches, the dormitories at University of the Cumberlands are getting ready to host a special trick-or-treat event aimed at the young kids in the local community. Scheduled for next Thursday, October 31, this event invites children and their families to explore and collect candy from students dressed in creative costumes. The goal is to create a safe and fun environment where kids can enjoy the Halloween spirit while allowing university students to connect meaningfully with the local community.
The event is organized by the Res-life department, with each dorm following a different theme and handing out candy to the children and other visitors. The focus is primarily on children who lack a safe place for traditional trick-or-
treating, especially those living in rural areas. Rebecca Mitchell, Resident Hall Director of Asher, said, “We are trying to reach kids here that do not have, necessarily, a safe place for them to go.” For many, traveling from house to house can be challenging, with long distances between homes and unsafe roads to cross. The university aims to provide a central space in the city where kids can enjoy trick-or-treating safely.
This year marks the second time the dorms have hosted this event. In previous years, there were similar efforts, including a “trunk-or-treat” where student volunteers distributed candy from the trunks of their cars. School organizations, such as the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the campus ministries, also set up booths to hand out candy and engage the kids in fun activities. Although the campus ministries are not participating this year, the SCA will participate this year, lining up their cars up Main Street and offering candies from their vehicles.
Speaking with some Resident Assistants involved in the year’s event, they shared that participants enjoy the excitement of the celebration and receive community service hours for their involvement. While all RAs are required to participate, any student interested in volunteering can join by coordinating with the leaders of each dorm. The event, therefore, provides an excellent opportunity for students to give back and create positive experiences for local families who join in the fun.Drew Minton, Resident Assistant of Kleist Hall, said, “It is nice
to see their [kids from Williamsburg] faces light up; they are so happy to be there and that some college students take time giving to them.”
Beyond candy distribution, the event includes fun games and activities to make it even more engaging for kids. For example, last year, one dorm set up a corn hole toss where kids could win extra treats, while another had a soccer goal challenge where children earned additional prizes if they scored. These playful activities add an interactive element, making the event more than just about collecting candy.
One of the highlights of the event is the creativity in costumes. Each dorm has selected a theme that allows their entire staff to dress up together. For example, Gillespie Hall will be transformed into the world of The Wizard of Oz, while Asher Hall is taking on Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, with Rebecca Mitchell dressing as Willy Wonka and the rest of the staff as Oompa Loompas. On the male side, Robcook Hall is adopting a Star Wars theme, while Kleist Hall is going all out as the Power Rangers. According to the organizers, one of the biggest challenges was choosing themes that would accommodate all participants while keeping everyone excited about the idea.
With a mix of costumes, games, and community spirit, this trick-or-treat event promises a Halloween experience that local kids will love. It is a chance for the university to bring some festive fun to the community, creating memories that will last long after the candy is gone.
PHOTO
PHOTO BY JONAH MUMFORD
Letter From the Editor-in-Chief
PHOTO BY LILLY MCKEEHAN
BY: MORGAN ROBERTS
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Hello Patriots!
I hope you all enjoyed some of the Autumn weather over Fall break! As grateful as I am for the sunshine paired with the colorful trees, I cannot wait for the crisp, cool morning air to be a permanent fixture this Autumn season. Even though we are only a quarter of the way through the 2024-2025 school year, I cannot believe how fast the time is flying! Fall activities are in full swing on UC’s campus and all over Kentucky. I’ve never been a fan of horror or Halloween themed movies, but a chilling novel by Stephen King and a bowl of candy corn? Sign me up!
In this week’s issue, you will find an article featuring two of UC’s outstanding archers and their accomplishments. You will also see UC’s Reslife department staff members make an appearance in a Halloween/community-centered piece. If you are interested in earning community service hours with them before graduation, Judit’s article showcases an undemanding and fun opportunity.
Perhaps those of you who stayed on campus over Fall break ventured out of your dorm rooms to explore downtown Williamsburg and discovered just how many cool small businesses operate so close to UC’s campus. Gideon Games is included in this issue as our first “Small Businesses of Williamsburg” feature. However, if you decided to get off of campus for a few days, check out Hannah’s review of popular and interesting weekend getaway locations!
As we ease ourselves into the second half of this Fall semester, be sure to eat well, sleep enough, budget your time, and, most importantly, start planning for Christmas!
Editor- in- Chief
Morgan Roberts
Managing Editor
Filippa Malmstrom
Social Media Coordinator
Shayra Caulderon
Staff Writers
Alexander Legg
Hannah Phillips
Sydney Schwenke
Staff Photographers
Nicholas Jackson
Lilly Mckeehan
Jonah Mumford
Brittany Smith
Faculty Advisor
Jeremiah Massengale
SUDOKU
BY: NICKHOLAS JACKSON STAFF WRITER
Downtown Williamsburg is filled with small businesses trying to find their way and make an impact on the city and the community. Amongst these many different stores are restaurants, boutiques, florists, and even a game store. Gideon Games has been a beacon for people who are passionate about trading card games (TCGs) and tabletop games. The store, owned by community member and University of the Cumberlands alumni Kenny Eversole, has become a sanctuary for those with niche hobbies and seeking a place to gather with like-minded individuals.
Eversole’s journey with Gideon Games began during a challenging period. Having played at the store for years, he found solace there—an “out” that allowed him to connect with others who shared his interests. When the previous owner, Jessie, contemplated closing the store, Eversole felt compelled to step in. He didn’t want the community to lose such a valu-
Got Games? Small Businesses of Williamsburg
able space; everything aligned with his dream of owning a business. Eversole took over Gideon Games, ensuring it would remain open for the town’s hobbyists and gamers.
Eversole aims to make Gideon Games a welcoming space for college students. He recognizes that many students may feel left out of traditional campus activities, such as sporting events or campus clubs, and his store offers an alternative where they can find community and inclusion. Gideon Games has partnered with the University’s E-Sports team to help host events and recruit new members. The store is not just a place to play games but a space where students can come to do homework and hang out, even if they are not gaming enthusiasts. Eversole’s vision for Gideon Games goes beyond just offering a space for hobbies; he aims to make it a welcoming environment where people can connect. He wants the store to serve as a true community hub, encouraging organized games and spontaneous social interactions. To him, Gideon Games should be a place where friendships are formed, new interests are sparked, and everyone feels a sense of belonging. UC senior Jared Laux said, “It’s a great shop with a friendly atmosphere that welcomes all.”
Since Eversole took over, Gideon Games has seen remarkable growth, transitioning from a primarily Magic: The Gathering-focused shop into a thriving hub for various gaming communities. While Magic: The Gathering remained the initial focus, over the last 18 months, Eversole has expanded the store’s offerings to include a wide array of other games. Warhammer, Dungeons & Dragons, Catan, and other tabletop games have found a home at Gideon Games, attracting a diverse range of players. Now, the store offers board games, TCGs, and collectible
Archery Fiends
card games (CCGs), all reflecting Eversole’s vision of creating a welcoming space for gamers of all kinds. His leadership has transformed the shop into a multi-faceted venue that caters to the diverse interests of the local gaming community. Gideon Games has evolved into more than just a store—it’s a place where connections are made and the local gaming scene thrives, allowing players of all backgrounds to come together, share their passion, and enjoy their favorite games in a welcoming environment.
When you walk into Gideon Games, you are welcomed by happy faces who are playing and practicing the games of their choice. Whether you are doing homework, playing games, or buying materials, everyone is welcome to go to Gideon Games.
One of Eversole’s favorite aspects of running Gideon Games is watching individuals grow through their interactions at the store. He has seen introverted customers gradually become more confident and socially adept as they engage with the community. For Eversole, the store’s success isn’t just measured in sales but also in its positive impact on the lives of those who visit.
Gideon Games has a solid online presence for those interested in getting involved. The store’s Facebook page and Discord server are great places to stay updated on upcoming events, new game releases, and general community happenings. The store regularly hosts “learn-to-play” sessions, where newcomers can try different games using store-provided materials. Eversole is also very open to feedback and encourages customers to suggest ideas for new events or improvements to the store’s offerings. No matter the interest, everyone is welcome to go down to Gideon Games.
Personal Highlights of Hannah Summers and Blaine Kostrzewski
BY: BRIANNA LAUX STAFF WRITER
Season 2024-25 began with another win for the archery team as they captured their seventh straight USA 3D National Championship. Out of seven national titles and 14 podium finishes, two archers stood out a little extra.
In her freshman year at the University of the Cumberlands, Hannah Summers made a splash at her first collegiate national event. In the looming rain cloud remnants of hurricane Helene, the fixed pins archer captured the only individual national title from the event when she qualified first in her division with a score of 410.
Prior to joining the archery team at the University of the Cumberlands, Summers spent her time practicing in the open division. When asked how she felt about her performance at the USAA 3D Collegiate nationals.
“I am really happy with it. The first two weeks were rough when we got here, switching from open to fixed pins, but now that I have been in it and got the hang of it, I am just really happy with how my performance went. I was just able to make strong shots throughout the weekend,” Summers said.
The archer felt more prepared for her debut after becoming acclimated to the differ-
ent format, attributing some of her success to the tournament-style practice her coaches prescribed for the team. Despite the less-than-ideal shooting conditions at the tournament, Hannah expressed mental strength at the tournament. “I was able to keep in my head that everybody is struggling through this weather. Like we are all shooting in the same weather, so I just had to keep pushing through and hope for the best,” Summers said.
Despite the conditions, the archer was able to earn a national title and maintain a positive outlook on the experience. One of her favorite moments from the event was the mixed equipment finals; the freshman expressed an appreciation for the support that arose from her team banding together.
“I think the team is very supportive, and we all just contributed to everything. Even with the tough weather situations, we all proved ourselves and showed that we can do anything in any weather,” Summers said.
As the archery team welcomed new talent, senior Blaine Kostrzewski demonstrated his skills to the newcomers by earning a top-five finish with a score of 446. Kostrzewski described this moment as a bittersweet one; he was optimistic about his placement, but he was frustrated that he “shot better in the pouring rain than in the dead calm where I [he] could see everything.” Despite his frustration, Kostrzewski related that the highlight of the tournament for him was hanging out with the boys and making memories with all his friends.
Reflecting on his years with the archery team, the Minnesota native revealed that one of his favorite memories with the team happened in Chula Vista, California, at the 2021 USA Archery Outdoor Collegiate Nationals. He enjoyed the new environment and venue, but he also valued all the time he got to spend with his teammates. During downtime at the tournament, Kostrzewski and two of his friends decided to rent a bird electric scooter and ride to find some-
thing to do. He was full of laughter when explaining how difficult it was to fit three people on one scooter. For Kostrzewski, friends are always the best part of any experience. Before committing to the University of the Cumberlands, the archer wasn’t even planning on going to college. “I was going to get into reality and develop property and just invest in that way. Like, work a job and hustle it out. But, he [a shooting buddy] told me he was coming here, and my one thing was that I was not going to stay in my hometown,” Kostrzewski explained. Unfortunately, his preferred choice of study in economics was not available upon arriving, so he decided to major in business administration.
When he’s not busy studying or practicing archery, Kostrzewski finds himself frequenting the frisbee golf courses around Williamsburg. “I got into a league just north of here. I discovered disc golf from my archery friends, and we play in leagues and tournaments, and that’s kind of our escape.” Kostrzewski conveyed that the quiet that comes alongside spending time with friends in nature is a true escape from the stresses that come with college life. Those memories will be cherished for many years to come.
PHOTO COURTESY OF LANDON STANDISH
PHOTO COURTESTY OF LANDON STANDISH
PHOTO BY LILLY MCKEEHAN
Weekend Getaways
Vacations Near the Burg
BY LILLY MCKEEHAN
BY: HANNAH PHILLIPS STAFF WRITER
As the first bi-term ends, students are eager to make the most of their time off their studies without breaking the bank. Fortunately, many exciting destinations are just a short trip away, offering a mix of adventure, relaxation, and new experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for a shopping spree, an outdoor adventure, or a cultural weekend excursion, somewhere is waiting to be explored just around the corner. To help you plan your next getaway, here’s a list of the top five weekend destinations, according to students at the University of the Cumberlands.
Just over two hours from campus, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a stunning mountain town that combines city life with nature’s natural beauty. It’s well known as the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park- the most popular national park in the U.S.- drawing in outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers from far and wide. The park has no entrance fee, allowing visitors to explore its stunning hiking trails, scenic drives, and breathtaking viewpoints. Beyond its spectacular mountain scenery, Gatlinburg is known for its vibrant arts and crafts spread and numerous local shops, making it an excellent spot for a shopping spree while supporting small businesses. Furthermore, the city is less than a 30-minute drive to Dollywood, a world-famous theme park in the area created by and starring America’s sweetheart, Dolly Parton. With offers and promotions available throughout the winter months, now is an ideal time to visit.
Many students recommended Lexington as a great place to visit for a day trip or a weekend getaway. About an hour and a half from campus, this historical staple has many attractions to keep you busy throughout your stay. Student Sophie
Roberts offered an itinerary to the perfect day in Lexington. “You’ve got to hit NorthLime Coffee and Donuts for a sweet breakfast or Michlersfor delicious brunch food. For lunch, visit High on Art and Coffee and get the Crangerine Sandwich. After that, go for a walk around The Square downtown or in and around Greyline Station,” Sophie stated. “Other stores I love include The Peddlers Mall, Calypso, Black Swan Books, and Street Scene. Another great place for some shopping is of course The Summit, but If you don’t want to spend money and perhaps wanted to go on a hike, I would suggest McConnell Springs or Raven Run. After that, I would head to dinner at ItalX or Bella Notte. Or, if you’re not an Italian lover, I also like Goodfellas, gumbo Ya Ya, Campestre, Vinaigrette, Drakes, and Malones. End the night with ice cream at Crank and Boom!”
Asheville, North Carolina, combines the homey atmosphere of a community with the granola vibes of a mountain town. Resting about three and a half hours from the university, Asheville has enough in the city to keep you busy, whether for a day or a long weekend. Elisabeth Stepp, a University of the Cumberlands student, stated, “I love visiting the Biltmore Estate! It’s historic- built in the early 1900’s- and it’s the largest home in America. They also have great food and a shopping center called The Village. I recommend visiting if you have the time.”
Often called “the Niagara of the South,” this historic staple is a must for students and visitors of the city alike. Cumberland Falls State Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to be one with nature and enhance their education outside the classroom. Students can explore hiking trails at this free getaway, learn about local wildlife, and study man-made waterfalls. Additionally, Cumberland Falls State Park is one of the few areas in the world where you can regularly view a moonbow. Typically best viewed on clear nights with a full moon, the moonbow can be viewed
at the main overlook of the falls or on any of the hikes that end with a view of the falls.
The top recommended place for the perfect weekend getaway, according to students, is only an hour from campus- Knoxville, Tennessee. With many shopping and dining opportunities around the city, students can enjoy a budget-friendly day or go on their wildest shopping spree dreams. Senior Chloe Evans shared some insight into the city. “I love the Mast General Store on Gay Street downtown. I also love the Barnes and Noble at West Town- plus, the mall is close there, too,” Chloe stated. “I like the Mast General Store because of how homey it feels when you first walk in. It has many of my favorite brands and a variety of products- such as clothes, candy, home goods, and camping stuff. It’s all very unique- I think it’svery cool!”
Whether you’re looking for a day out with friends or a weekend away, so many local destinations are waiting to be explored. These recommendations from students offer a variety of experiences, from camping to shopping and theme parks.Whatever you choose, the coming months are the perfect time to escape cabin fever and see something new.
PHOTO