University of the Cumberlands Student Newspaper
Rocky Horror Picture Show
BY: HANNAH PHILLIPS STAFF WRITER
After 37 years of silence, the historic Lane Theater is experiencing a thrilling revival. At the front end of Main Street in downtown, the theater is transforming into a chilling experience for Williamsburg residents during Halloween. It is orgially well-known for its old-fashioned marquee, first opened in 1948 and operated for 39 years before closing its doors in 1987.
The theater is undergoing significant renovations under the vision of its new owner, Rocky Joe Moses Jr., who also owns the barbershop next door. To fund these ambitious restoration efforts, he decided to ingeniously transform the beloved old venue into a haunted house attraction, hoping to draw crowds and breathe new life into this valuable local landmark.
“I want people to walk around and realize that this building is as it was left almost forty years ago. We don’t need to cover anything up; it’s spooky enough,” Moses said.
The haunted house event will bring to life an original ghost story written by himself. Guests will explore the theater’s dimly lit lobby, haunting projection room, and the once-lively auditorium. The naturally eerie feeling of the building gave Moses an advantage in creating the stories. “I want people to see every bit of this
place. We’ll go into every room. They’ll see it all,” Moses said.
After the Williamsburg Action Team dissolved, Rocky Moses seized the opportunity to purchase the Lane Theater. Following the ac quisition, he felt both elated and overwhelmed by the costly repairs ahead, as the building required extensive renovations.” My first visit here—it was a mess,” Moses said. “There were boxes everywhere, stuff piled up. I didn’t know what to expect. But it’s original—like a time machine.” Moses added, “Everyone wants it ready now, and I feel the same way, but I need to make sure the theater is functional first.”
With pressure to modernize the Lane Theater, especially as newer venues offer modern technology and amenities, Rocky recognized the need to preserve the building’s vintage 1940s charm.
Moses added, “After I could get it cleaned up, I held an open house. So many people, like myself, had never done more than drive by the building. Meeting all the people who have never been inside was really neat. Even more neat was meeting all the couples- people who could pick out the seats of their first date or first kiss, and even some people who held their first jobs here. People build memories here. I can’t change too much of the building; it’s important to the community that I preserve that history.”
Student Involvement
BY: SYDNEY SCHWENKE STAFF WRITER 2024 Election
Dr. Christopher Leskiw has been Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty since 2018. He started at UC in 2004 as a political science professor. Leskiw stated that over the last 20 years, “there has certainly been a shift” in the way students view their political involvement. He referred to the way that students today are “more likely to express their political beliefs and get involved.” He said that in the ‘60s people on college campuses were very involved in rallies and campaign signing, but “in the ‘80s and ‘90s, that really kind of went away.”
Leskiw attributes the recent mobilization of the student body to COVID, the Black Lives Matter movement, environmental concern, conflict over reproductive rights, and wars
around the world (particularly in Israel-Palestine and Ukraine).
Freshman accounting major, Jeremiah Koenig, comments on his age group’s attitude towards politics, “Our generation cares, but I don’t think that they necessarily know how to be involved.” He says he “feels like the younger generation is just really upset about what’s going on, especially with the presidency right now. I feel like within the younger generation... nobody thinks that either candidate is good.”
The turnout of voters under 30 is typically between 10 and 15%, contrasting with senior adults who have the highest number of voters. Leskiw commented on the previous election stating that “something unusual happened [in
The building may go through changes, but the tender memories people create remain. “When I held my open house, Doll Foster, whose father opened the original Lane Theater, came to check it out. She asked if I’d be changing much of the theater, and I told her I wanted to keep it just like it was. I’ll fix what’s broken, but I don’t want to change much of anything,” Moses declared.
Looking beyond the haunted house, Rocky envisions the Lane Theater as more than a nostalgic monument to the past- it’s a potential hub for modern community events. Once renovations are complete, the theater expects to host various events.
“I’ve had an outpour of messages from people who want to book the building,” Moses said.
“A couple who had their first date in the theater want to renew their vows here. We’ve got a wedding booked. I’ve had several bands reach out to me and ask if they can perform here. We’ve even got an acting group who want to come and perform on the stage.” These diverse events reflected Rocky’s broader visions for the Lane Theater as a place where memories of the past meet the hope of the future. “I want to show some movie re-runs occasionally, but I don’t think this will be a full-time theater. I see it as more of an event venue.”
The Haunted Theater will officially open on Friday, October 4, from 7 p.m. to midnight every Friday and Saturday throughout October. Admission is $15 for adults, with all proceeds directly supporting the first phase of renovations, including crucial upgrades to the heating and air system.
Chloe Evans, a Cumberlands student, said, “I think that the Lane Theater re-opening and using the money from the haunted house for the restorations is a very profitable way to attract consumers while also raising money for such a good cause to better the community of Williamsburg.” With community support, the Lane Theater is one step closer to reopening and becoming a cornerstone of Williamsburg once again.
2020] and has been persistent with the midterm elections.” He said “18 to 25 [year olds] have been much more likely to vote” even though it is generational that most people under the age of 25 don’t vote.
PHOTO BY MARINAH AKRIDGE
PHOTO BY BRITTANY SMITH
Letter From the Managing Editor
Hello UC students!
I hope everyone had a smooth and successful first bi-term as we go into finals soon. My name is Filippa Malmström, and I’m an international student-athlete from Sweden. I’m majoring in Communication Arts with an emphasis in Journalism and minoring in Psychology. Outside academics, I’m a part of the swimming and diving team, usually competing in the 200 individual medley, as well as the 200 and 100 butterfly events.
I’m excited to start my first year working at The Patriot as the managing editor. Those are big shoes to fill, but I will do everything in my power to carry on the legacy left before me. I’m thrilled to work with the editor-in-chief alongside our spectacular staff writers and photographers. My goal for The Patriot is to get more students to read the newspaper and to get more people to find their passion for writing.
I have always had a passion for storytelling. Working for the school newspaper, I hope to help more students build confidence in their writing. Before applying for the job, I was scared to put myself out there and doubted my journalism skills. The Patriot offers an exceptional opportunity to gain experience in professional journalism. Therefore, my biggest advice for those thinking of writing for our newspaper is to try. Don’t be afraid to attend our meetings and take on new challenges.
One of my dreams is to write a mental health book. As a teenager, I struggled with my mental health and often felt alone, believing I was the only one experiencing those emotions. Therefore, I would like to write a book for the ones out there who also feel alone with their feelings. As someone who used to struggle with depression and anxiety, I believe it is important to share personal stories and practical advice for those in need. Hopefully, my story could change someone’s life out there and bring them hope.
Working on the first issue, I found a new passion for editing. I love to see what our staff writers send in and help them improve their pieces. I’ve found that editing not only improves the quality of the content but also helps the writer’s voice shine through. At the end of the day, it is their article in the newspaper. My job is to tighten up language, ensure facts are correct, and polish the structure for better readability. I want all of our staff and volunteer workers to look in The Patriot and be proud of their work. I can’t wait to see more volunteers and staff members blossom into great writers.
As the year goes on, we at The Patriot are planning on bringing new, fun content to the newspaper. We encourage everyone to join our writing team and send us your ideas by email or direct message to Instagram @ucthepatriot.
Election 2024
CONTINUED FROM PAGE A1
Leskiw commented on the fact that Gen Z is much more public in terms of their political identities and stated that today’s students are more likely to take advantage of new technologies like early voting and absentee ballots because they’re easier to obtain now.
Jeremiah Behnke is a Christian studies and youth and family ministry double major. He said, “I don’t exactly know how involved my peers are out here on campus because we don’t really talk about it too much.” The junior stated that many of his peers from his home state of California “are pretty involved. I also have friends in Washington that are pretty involved...most of them do mail-in ballots.”
Social media is a factor in the rise of Gen Z’s involvement. Leskiw said that “social media can great to be a great tool” but that everyone should be “critical users of information.” He stressed the importance of gathering information from many sources with diverse views.
UC senior Kennedi Artrip supports the idea that social media is a tool and can be a helpful platform to keep students informed on current events. The ministry and dentistry double major states, “Most of the information we’re being fed is not by television anymore, but by social media.” Artrip adds, “social media is honestly more helpful for our generation... [it] does get a bad connotation regardless and there’s a lot of false information on there. But there are different campaigns that actually do want to speak the truth.”
Leskiw stressed the value of the youth. Leskiw said, “It really does matter.” He stated that “so many elections are down to the wire” and that he believes “we’re gonna see a great young people turn out, and that’s going to shape politics for the future for sure.”
When asked if she plans on voting Carmen Martinez, a UC sophomore, said, “Yeah, I do plan on voting but I’m not registered to vote yet. I know that [my friends] are voting... we were just talking about it the other day in our suite. I know for the most part that everyone I’ve talked to says that they will vote.” She described that voting is important to her family. “My sister has told me to vote. My mom has told me to vote, like all of my family members have.”
Staff
Editor- in- Chief
Morgan Roberts
Managing Editor
Filippa Malmstrom
Social Media Coordinator
Shayra Calderon
Staff Writers
Alexander Legg
Hannah Phillips
Sydney Schwenke
Staff Photographers
Nicholas Jackson
Lilly Mckeehan
Brittany Smith
Faculty Advisor
Jeremiah Massengale
PHOTO BY AMANDA GAULT
PHOTO BY ELEMENT5 ON UNSPLASH
BY: HANNAH PHILLIPS STAFF WRITER
‘This Week’ The Great
Next week marks the 153rd anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire, a devastating event that reshaped the city and left a lasting impact on American history. The fire broke out October 8-10, 1871, in a barn owned by Patrick O’Leary. While the exact cause is unknown, some believe a cow knocked over a lantern, while modern science suggests a meteor might have ignited a hay pile. Regardless of how it started, the fire spread rapidly, fueled by wooden buildings, dry weather, and strong winds.
In just three days, the flames consumed over four square miles of the city, obliterating 74 miles of streets and leaving behind a trail of destruction. It claimed the lives of an estimated 200 to 300 people and left nearly 90,000 residents homeless. Approximately 17,500 busi-
Chicago Fire Anniversary
nesses were lost, forever changing Chicago’s landscape and role in the growing United States. On October 10, heavy rainfall finally quelled the flames, offering some respite to the survivors and saving what remained of the city.
The aftermath of the fire showcased the resilience and determination of Chicago residents. City leaders and neighbors came together to rebuild a safer community. The city passed new building codes requiring the use of fire-resistant materials such as brick, limestone, and marble. This commitment to safety reflected a desire to prevent such a disaster from occurring again. Within a few years, the people rebuilt much of the city, demonstrating their strength and unity. Amid this devastation, countless heroes emerged. Firefighters, first responders, and ordinary citizens displayed remarkable bravery, risking their lives to save others. Firefighters worked around the clock, often overwhelmed but dedicated to battling the inferno. Residents unified to help evacuate vulnerable neighbors, embodying the spirit of community in a time of crisis. These acts of courage saved lives and fostered a deep sense of solidarity that would define Chicago for generations.
As the anniversary approaches, the city has organized several events for October 8, 2024. Residents and visitors can look forward to guided tours of historic fire sites, educational programs that explore the fire’s impact, and a candlelight memorial honoring the victims. The
Chicago History Museum will also feature a special exhibition showcasing artifacts and personal stories from the fire, allowing visitors to connect with this pivotal moment in the city’s history.
The anniversary serves as a poignant remind er of the resilience that defines Chicago. It also emphasizes the importance of fire safety and preparedness in urban settings. Local officials are keen to promote ongoing education about fire prevention, ensuring that the lessons learned from the Great Fire remain in the public consciousness.
As Chicagoans prepare to remember the Great Chicago Fire, they do so not only to honor those who suffered but also to celebrate the spirit of determination that has shaped their city. The legacy of the fire continues to influence Chicago’s identity, reminding everyone of the value of community, resilience, and vigilance.
For more details on the anniversary events, visit the Chicago History Museum’s website or follow local news outlets for updates. This commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire is not just about reflecting on the past; it’s also about inspiring a collective vision for a safer, stronger future- one that embodies the enduring spirit of a city that has faced challenges with courage and unity.
Cumberlands Crossword
BY: NICHOLAS JACKSON STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NEW YORK TIMES
Friendly Competition
PHOTOGRAPHER
Intramural sports are an active way to get involved in a college campus community. University of the Cumberlands holds several events all year long. Intramural sports are recreational sports organized as part of campus life for fun and competition.
The Campus Wellness Center is the head organizational body for intramurals at the University of the Cumberlands. These activities are available to staff, graduate students, and undergraduates all semester. Intramural sports are an excellent way for students who may not compete in an organized sport to stay active, meet new people, and win prizes such as gift cards and t-shirts. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or want to try something new, intramurals have something anyone can enjoy.
According to Josh Hatfield, the Director of Intramurals and Campus Recreation, the campus offers various intramural sports. These
BY: HANNAH PHILLIPS STAFF WRITER
As the leaves turn and the air gets chilly, it’s the perfect time to indulge in cozy, fall- inspired treats. Living in a dorm can have its benefits and downsides- not having easy access to an oven is one of them. Don’t fret- these dorm-friendly recipes that capture the essence of fall without the need for baking are at your fingertips. These recipes are simple to make and perfect for enjoying the season’s flavors from your dorm room.
1. Pumpkin Spice Overnight Oats Pumpkin Spice Overnight Oats are a yummy way to start your morning with a burst of fall flavor. This leisurely breakfast combines rolled oats with pumpkin puree, milk, and a mix of warm spices. Studies show that having breakfast in the morning leads to better academics, a sharper mind, and better focus throughout the day.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (or any milk alternative)
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Toppings, optional: chopped nuts, dried cran-
Intramural Sports
sports include activities with little competition, such as regular hiking trips and trips to rock climbing, where students can get off campus for the activity to do something they would otherwise not get to do. These sports also include more competitive events such as weight lifting, cornhole, and pickleball, where students can compete for one on one or team sports like two of the most popular intramural events, Flag Football and 3on3 Basketball. These events are not limited to the fall semester, though; they will continue into the spring semester, where there will be some of the same events like rock climbing and basketball, as well as other events like an indoor soccer tournament.
Signing up for these events can seem confusing for students who may need help knowing where to look, but it is a simple process. Students have a few options for signing up for the events. Firstly, they can go to the Wellness Center to sign up in person, whether for team or singular events. Also, if students want to avoid signing up through the Wellness Center, they can visit IMLeagues.com/Universityofthecumberlands.
Students looking to find news on intramural sports can look to @Ironpats on Instagram for news and updates on the latest events around campus.
People all over campus are allowed and encouraged to participate in these sports. Hatfield mentions that the groups that predominantly attend these events are freshmen men, juniors, and seniors, but he hopes to see more growth in graduate students, staff, and sophomore students. Many athletes enjoy the
Fall Recipes
Dorm Friendly
berries, a sprinkle of cinnamon, brown sugar, other types of fruit
Instructions:
1. In a jar or container, mix the oats, milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract.
2. Stir well, cover, and refrigerate overnight.
3. In the morning, give it a good stir and add your favorite toppings before enjoying 2. Maple Pecan Energy Bites Maple pecan energy bites are the perfect snack to fuel you throughout the day. These bites combine the fall flavors of maple syrup and almond butter with the crunch of pecans and oats, creating a satisfying treat that’s both nutritious and delicious. They’re simple to make with no baking required- mix, roll, and refrigerate. Plus, you can customize them with mini chocolate chips for sweetness. Whether you’re between classes or need a quick pick-me-up, these energy bites are a tasty way to enjoy the essence of fall.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup almond butter (or, for a fun twist, substitute apple butter)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the oats and chopped pecans.
2. Warm the maple syrup and almond butter in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth and combined (about 20-30 seconds).
3. Pour the syrup mixture over the oats and pecans, add the vanilla extract and chocolate chips (if using), and mix until everything is well combined.
4. Roll the mixture into small balls and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving
3. Cinnamon Apple Chia Pudding Cinnamon Apple Chia Pudding is a delicious and nutritious treat for a cozy fall morning. This pud-
intramurals that the University offers. They are entirely allowed to sign up with the approval of their coaches, as it is up to the athlete’s discretion to make sure they make a decision that will not jeopardize their season. For students who are worried they may not have enough people to join in the team sports, there is always the option to be a “Free Agent.” this is a signup option on ImLeagues; this allows a player without a team to be picked up by a team that is missing players. Intramurals are an excellent way for students to make memories on campus. Hatfield recalled his favorite Intramural memory, “We had a women’s only and a men’s only Flag Football team that traveled; we sent them to a regional tournament, and out of the tournament, the women won their division, and from there, they went to the National Tournament, where they didn’t fair too well but they had fun, in Panama City Beach.” Hatfield concluded his story saying, “It’s about building memories from the college you attended when you were that age, and that’s what it’s about.” Intramurals are among the many ways students can get participate in the community through the Wellness Center. The Wellness Center has many options for students. More of these options are Smoothie Nights once a week and classes in the Wellness Center Fitness Room such as Zumba and Kickboxing. Personal training is also offered for students looking to get into working out.
ding combines the rich flavors of cinnamon and fresh apples with the creamy texture of chia seeds soaked in milk. The chia seeds absorb the liquid and expand, creating a satisfying, pudding-like consistency that’s filling and healthy. Whether you want an afternoon snack or a filling breakfast, this pudding will satisfy your autumn cravings.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1 cup milk (or any milk alternative)
- 1 apple, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: chopped nuts, raisins, or a sprinkle of granola
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix the chia seeds, milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. 2. Stir well and let it sit for about 10 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until it reaches a pudding-like consistency.
4. In the morning, add the diced apple and any optional toppings you like.
GRAPHIC BY LILLY MCKEEHAN
PHOTO BY LILLY MCKEEHAN
BY: NICHOLAS JACKSON STAFF