The Patriot Spring 2023 - Issue 1

Letter From the Editor in Chief

Happy third week of classes, Patriots!

I am so excited for a new semester of The Patriot! We have had a couple of changes to the staff—notably, Elizabeth Spires, who contributed so much to the paper in the Fall 2022 semester, graduated in December. We are sad to see her go but also excited about what the newspaper has in store for the Spring 2023 semester. Our staff now consists of Amber Simpkins, Hannah Mae Sizemore, Alyssa King, Summer Mills, and me (Lacie DeGough). We also have more volunteers than ever! I cannot wait for you all to see everything we have planned this year.

In this issue, we have a movie review of The Pale Blue Eye, an Edgar Allan Poe-inspired mystery on Netflix that Cassidy Howard may tempt you to stream after reading her honest take. Amber Simpkins, one of our staff writers, has also compiled a list of the best things to do in downtown Williamsburg so that you can kiss your fears of boredom goodbye! And speaking of Amber, did you know she is directing a production of “Almost, Maine” by John Cariani in March? Her interview is included in this issue so you can check out her answers to questions about the theatre program and her upcoming play. We also know that many students here at UC are looking for work, so Hannah Mae Sizemore has some great tips and resources to help your job-hunting search on page 5! Alyssa King has put together a list of back-to-school routine tips to help you settle back into college life after winter break. And finally, our playlist in this issue is especially exciting. Olivia Williams, the winner of our Instagram contest, won the opportunity to include her favorite songs in her very own Top Picks playlist! She put together a list of about forty folk/indie songs for you to sip coffee too. If you missed this contest and want to stay in the loop, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube @ucthepatriot.

As the semester continues, be sure to take care of yourself. Don’t let stress weigh you down; remember to take breaks and make time for fun things. My prayer for you is that you excel in all of your classes and that your health (both mental and physical) does not suffer because of it!

Have a great semester, Patriots!

- Lacie DeGough

DeGough

Email comments, concerns or tips to: thepatriot@ucumberlands.edu or call us at 606-539-4172

7000 College Station Drive Williamsburg, Kentucky 40769

The Patriot is the student publication of the University of the Cumberlands. Our goal is to provide timely and original content by highlighting campus news and views.

Award-winning member of the Associated Collegiate Press and Kentucky Press Association.

Front cover photo by Cassidy Howard Back cover graphic by Hannah Mae Sizemore

Photo by Summer Mills

Edgar Allan Poe and Christian Bale Walk Into a Bar

Literature and Historical Fiction in The Pale Blue Eye

BY CASSIDY HOWARD Staff Writer

IMDB: 6.7/10

Rotten Tomatoes: 63%

Metacritic: 56%

Cassidy: 7.4/10

“One of his eyes resembled that of a vulture -- a pale blue eye, with a film over it. Whenever it fell upon me, my blood ran cold; and so by degrees -- very gradually -- I made up my mind to take the life of the old man, and thus rid myself of the eye for ever.” – Edgar Allan Poe, “The Tell-Tale Heart” (1843)

The success of films in 2022 is no secret. With a return to theatre releases and a considerable increase in feature-length movies, patrons and critics alike found this to be a restorative year for the industry. Although the eagerness of a post-pandemic world to seek and even force “normalcy” may have at first seemed a substantial contributing factor to upward-trending movie ratings, the increasingly advanced screenplay of streaming-service cinema silences such suspicions. One film released at the end of 2022, The Pale Blue Eye, was an especially noteworthy contribution to the cinematic portfolio of Netflix originals. While the film derives its title from one of Edgar Allan Poe’s most infamous works, its plot and characters reflect nothing of its namesake short

Graphic by Lacie DeGough

story. As a matter of fact, the movie is a historical fiction revolving loosely around Edgar Allan Poe himself. In the film, Poe finds himself pleasurably entangled in investigating a purported homicide headed by the protagonist and detective Augustus Landor, embodied by Christian Bale. The pair work stealthily together, with Landor employing Poe’s knowledge of language and the macabre to turn every stone.

The film itself beautifully maintains a consistent eerie and foreboding atmosphere through its visual effects, haunting characters, and masterful dialogue. Moreover, the weaving of Augustus Landor’s own story into the active plot of the movie is done tastefully and without blemish. Each character’s depth of emotion and complexity makes this film a delightful and engaging watch. If you find no personal draw from these attributes, consider the outstanding performance of Christian Bale to pique your interest. As the film progresses, Bale’s performance swells almost impossibly with impressiveness, even into the closing scene.

The Pale Blue Eye is the perfect film for literature and film junkies alike, paying homage to the person and mind of Edgar Allan Poe while dually presenting a mirage of brilliant cinematic creativity. It is most definitely worth the watch.

Exploring Downtown

Five Things To Do in Downtown Williamsburg

BY AMBER SIMPKINS Staff Writer

Have you explored downtown Williamsburg yet? If your answer is no, we are here to tell you that there are many great places you need to check out! Downtown Williamsburg is conveniently within walking distance from campus, making it easier to spend time downtown. Here are five of the many wonderful places that you should visit in your free time.

Moonbow Mercantile

If you are hungry and in the mood to shop, Moonbow Mercantile is a great place to spend your day. They have a menu filled with various sandwiches, sides, and soups if you want to eat. If you have a sweet tooth, Moonbow has many ice cream options. The store also has many novelty items you can shop for, such as jewelry, knick-knack items, and t-shirts.

The Brick Oven

If you usually love Italian food, you need to try this restaurant. The Brick Oven is most famous for its pizza. They have many different types of pizza to choose from, including dietary-friendly options such as gluten-free crusts. If you aren’t in the mood for pizza, they have other great options, such as pasta, subs, and cheese sticks. It is an excellent spot if you are looking for well-priced, delicious food.

Cumberland River Coffee

This coffee shop is a great place for college students to visit if they haven’t yet. Cumberland River Coffee is a great environment if you need to

work on homework or hang out with friends. They have many drink options, such as coffee, smoothies, blended drinks, teas, and snacks. This place is also great if you aren’t looking to spend money because you can use your UC meal swipe here!

The Suds Barn and Boutique

This store has a great selection of inventory. One of the popular items you can shop for here is their soap and bath products. They have a great selection of bars of soap, bath bombs,scrubs, and many more self-care products. While you’re there, you can also shop for new items to add to your wardrobe. Their boutique section has many clothing items to choose from, such as tops, sweaters, flannels, and dresses. Consider checking out this place if you are looking for new clothes or self-care products.

Bill Woods Downtown Park

If you want something free to do, try the park downtown. This area might be a new hangout spot for you and your friends! It is a great peaceful spot to be alone in, as well. You might even want to study there on a nice day. The park is a scenic and relaxing spot to spend a few hours of your day.

If you haven’t spent much time in Williamsburg, hopefully, this article convinces you to explore more of the downtown area. Downtown is full of many lively small businesses that are worth checking out. Are you going to visit any of these places?

Photo by Alyssa King

Job Hunting

Finding the Job That Best Fits You

BY HANNAH MAE SIZEMORE Staff Writer

JOB H U N T I N G

Being a student here at UC is very time-consuming. It is worth it in the long run, but how can you balance your responsibilities, school, fun, and (maybe) work? It is certainly possible; scheduling your responsibilities can be very beneficial and help you know what you can and cannot add to your busy schedule. On top of school, some students have to find a job (or even more than one job) to support themselves. Adding a job can seem overwhelming, but it does not have to be. Many places are willing to work with college students and their schedules. You just have to find them. Many UC students have flexible jobs and could help you with information about them. Knowing how they found their job can help you plan your job search. You can also talk to your professors to ask them if they know of good places to work.

There are a few ways to find a job. Many jobs now have applications online. To find these websites, some people walk into the place they are looking for work and get the websites from the managers or employees. Some people do

by Alyssa King

a little digging online to find them that way. Some people use a website called Indeed. The first step in applying online is to create a resume. And if you do not know how to do that, do not panic! Ask a professor, talk to Career Services, or even watch a YouTube video.

Some students know they need to find a job but are overwhelmed by the responsibilities. They may realize that they do not have enough time for work. It is not easy to accept, but you may have to step back from a few things you are doing to have time for a job. And if that is the case, do not be hard on yourself! It is a challenging situation to be in, but sometimes it has to happen.

If you are looking for a job this semester, check online. You can also try walking downtown—Williamsburg has several local businesses hiring college students!

Keep an eye out for openings nearby. And remember that you may have to give up a few things to have time for work—and that is okay.

Graphic

Break’s Over!

Back to School Routine Tips

BY ALYSSA KING

B r e a k

s

Everyone has a different school routine than at home over the break or weekends. It can take time to adjust quickly to the routine after a long break. Getting back in the swing of things is very important, and it is necessary to learn how to adapt so that you can start your classes with ease. But how do you stay motivated to do that?

The most important part of your routine is regulating your sleeping patterns. Let’s be honest: no one gets up at six in the morning over the break like you would for class at UC. So how do you ensure that your body is on the same page as your schedule? Well, first, you must be patient with yourself. You are a young adult living independently, making decisions, and managing your schedule all on your own. Start your back-to-school sleeping schedule before breaks or weekend visits are over so that your body can adjust before it is time to go back. Why is sleep scheduling so important? Sleep allows the brain to process long-term memory, which helps retain information learned during the day. Not enough sleep results in insufficient time to process material learned in class.

Another essential part of your school routine is when and what you eat. College students tend to eat whenever they get the time, resulting in unpredictable eating schedules. Doing this is not necessarily wrong, but eating your meals at the usual times you would at home is preferable. For many, this could be a problem due to classes scheduled during lunchtime, but it is okay to pack a lunch ahead of time. Food provides the energy needed to walk to class, write notes, and pay attention.

How do you stay motivated to adapt and stick with this schedule? Motivation can come in many forms; for example, a reward system is often effective. Rewarding yourself for sticking with your routine is a great way to help you achieve good grades and—in return—get that hard-earned degree. Another way to stay motivated is to call a family member. Talking with your family is a great motivator because you want to make them proud.

This semester, remember to sleep, stay motivated, and eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner!

Graphic by Hannah Mae Sizemore

Interview With a Student Director

Amber Simpkins Directs “Almost, Maine” This Spring

INTERVIEW CONDUCTED BY HANNAH MAE SIZEMORE

Olivia’s Top Picks

Amber Simpkins, a staff writer for The Patriot, is directing “Almost, Maine” by John Cariani! We sat down with her to ask her a few questions about the upcoming performance and her connection to the theatre program.

Q: What draws you to the theatre?

A: I have always been drawn to the performing arts, but I did not actually have the opportunity to participate in it until college because my high school, unfortunately, did not have theatre. I love the way theatre allows people to be able to fully express themselves creatively. I find it to be very liberating at times. Also, the whole spectacle of it all has always caught my attention.

Q: Are you more of a techie or an actor?

A; I have not had much tech experience compared to acting, but I think I like being on the stage as an actor the best.

Q: What made you want to direct?

A: I took the directing class here at UC, which inspired me. I loved the way I could take a piece of written work and present it in my vision.

Q: What made you choose to direct “Almost, Maine” by John Cariani?

A: I love how the play takes serious topics—such as love—but presents them in a kind of silly, lighthearted manner. Also, the way the scenes are set up

allows for a lot of flexibility in the way the cast can be arranged. Actors can easily play multiple parts if needed.

Q: What influences how you cast people?

A: During the casting process, I looked for the actors that I felt showed the best emotion in the auditions. I matched them with the characters that they best represented.

Q: What is something most people do not know about theatre?

A: I feel like people may not realize how much hard work goes into each production. Yes, the director does do a lot of work, but everyone puts in a lot of time and effort. Especially those that are behind the scenes. The theatre work-study students put in a lot of work to make the props and set pieces for the production. Also, the actors work hard to express their talents and memorize their lines and cues. The light and sound people also work to make sure everything is cued perfectly. Theatre can be extremely time-consuming to make sure productions go smoothly, but it is worth it if it is something you really enjoy.

Q: When is your upcoming play?

A: The upcoming production of “Almost, Maine” will be March 8th, 9th, and 10th at 7:30 pm in the Kohn Theatre (located in the Grace Crum Rollins Center)!

Olivia Williams, the winner of our Instagram contest, has put together a playlist of her favorite folk/indie songs that you can drink coffee to! Scan the QR code to view her playlist.

Photo by Lacie DeGough

Graphic by Lacie DeGough

Downtown Williamsburg 40769