Letter from the Managing Editor
Dear Patriots,
The first month of 2020 is almost over and with every passing year it never ceases to amaze me how fast time flies by. Months feel like days, days feel like minutes and time is endless. Moments right now are tomorrow’s memories and there’s just something bittersweet about that that I can’t get over. It forces me to realize how precious our time on Earth truly is. Every opportunity with the potential squeezed through like wringing water out of a kitchen rag, I have to tell myself to take advantage of my time here.
If you would have asked me a year and a half ago if I thought I would be in the position I am in, I would have told you that was a cruel joke to tell someone, to get their hopes up for no reason. Well, things have a funny way of playing out. To be managing editor at The Patriot this semester means more to me than anyone will ever know. To come so far in my educational career so early is something that I am the most proud of myself for. It is a great honor and responsibility to be one of the public figures that shares the students at UC’s voice, and I want you all to know that I will do everything I can to not let you down.
The first lesson I have learned from becoming managing editor for this semester is to not let opportunities or chances go by. Apply for that job, that position, that scholarship even if you feel like you won’t get it. There’s always a chance for someone to see your potential. It’s easy to say you’ll do it later or that there’s no way that you would ever get that opportunity, but it’s so much sweeter to fight for what you want. You’ll never know what you’re missing out on if you never try. It can be hard to put yourself out there, but I promise you, it’s worth it. You’ll be thanking yourself later like I am with myself right now. Good things are coming for you, give yourself the opportunity to have them.
The Patriot has so many wonderful things planned for this semester and I’m really happy that we have our Patriots behind us to support us in all that we do. As a staff, we couldn’t be where we are or do what we do without your ceaseless support. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Remember to take advantage of the opportunities in front of you, you never know where they’ll lead you.
Do the good things,
Haley Bullock, Managing Editor
Editor-In-Chief
Taylor Duke
Managing Editor Haley Bullock
Faculty Adviser
Jeremiah Massengale
Staff
Emilee Agee Makayla Durham Abigail Fletcher
Leanne Gregory Alex Nunn
Maranda Young
Front cover by Taylor Duke
Back cover by Tara Todd and Lauren McHan
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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.
Photo by Makayla Durham
Deadly virus spreads across the globe
Details on the coronavirus: prevention tips and other information
BY: HALEY BULLOCK Managing Editor
It’s the narcissism and naivety in humans that gives us a false sense of hope that we are intelligent enough to know and discover everything the world has to offer. Even though we view ourselves as beacons of power, we can still be scared; especially when it comes to unknown. In a world where we have all the information we could ever want in our back pockets, unexplainable things are so scary to us that it often can cause mass panic. The coronavirus is the latest culprit. Although coronaviruses are mostly found in animals, as of Dec. 31, it has been discovered in humans in China and is considered to be an outbreak. The symptoms for coronavirus are not much different from the common cold. The symptoms include: runny nose, sore throat, headache, fever and cough. This virus is considered to have much more serious effects on the eldery and young children because their immune system is weaker than most average adults. It’s transmitted through a variety of ways. The first way is by air if someone who has it is coughing or sneezing in the area. Another way is by having contact with the affected person or any objects they may have touched, especially if you touch your mouth, nose or eyes without washing your hands after the contact. The last way of getting the virus is the least likely, but it’s important to include for public safety: fecal contamination. What makes the coronavirus so scary is that scientists and medical experts have still not been able to create a vaccine to prevent more people from getting it. The only way to prevent contamination is to wash your hands often with soap and warm water, not touching any orifices on your face and avoiding people that you know are sick. As of Jan. 25, there have been more than 1,300 cases confirmed worldwide according to NPR, and 41 of the people inflicted have died. To try to stop the spread from continuing, China has put up travel restrictions on multiple major
cities and has shut down many of their tourist attractions. Though the outbreak has occurred in China, it is spreading across the globe due to international travel. There have been a total of two confirmed cases of the disease in the U.S. as of Jan. 24, the first appearing in a man in Washington and the second appearing in a woman in Chicago, both travellers coming from Wuhan, China.
Even though the coronavirus hasn’t hit Kentucky yet, UC students still have concerns about the virus. Rachel Meadors, a UC senior, says, “It’s definitely terrifying and something that should be monitored closely. There should be free screenings at any US airport, boat dock or border to ensure that it doesn’t spread any farther than it may have already.” Other students also feel like more measures need to be taken to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Krista Kromer, a UC freshman, says, “I don’t necessarily like that it’s spread to America. This may sound bad, but if it came from China then they need to do a better job at making sure people aren’t infected before they leave, and with it now being in America, [we] need to do the same.”
Coronavirus has struck fear and concern in the hearts of many over the past few weeks. With still no vaccine available, it leaves people who are already infected to continue to deal with the virus. In order to keep yourself and others as safe as possible you should avoid travelling, don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth without washing your hands first and avoid areas where a large number of people would be.
Photo s courtesy of CDC
This image was captured during an investigation into the first reported Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) case in Haramout, Yemen.
The Mamba Mentality is here and has always been
UC students react to Kobe Bryant’s death
BY TAYLOR DUKE Editor-in-Chief
The sudden death of NBA superstar, shooter Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna with eight others, is still a shock for many. was 41, while his second-oldest daughter only 13 at the time of a helicopter crash on January 26, in Calabasas, Ca. Many are still feeling the aftershocks of his death but for many students at the University of the Cumberlands, Kobe was a role model they grew up with.
Ethan Snapp, University of the Cumberlands senior and men’s basketball player, was devastated by Kobe’s sudden passing.
“Being a 21-year-old basketball player, I grew up with Kobe. He’s been an influence all my life,” said Snapp.
Kobe was drafted into the NBA right out of high school in 1996 to the Charlotte Hornets then a month later was traded to the LA Lakers. At 19 years, 2 months and 11 days, Kobe was the youngest NBA player in 1996 at the time. He lead his team to five championship wins and two Olympic gold medals in the 2008 and 2012 Summer Olympics.
“Growing up and loving the game the way that I did, I think I had a really huge appreciation for him because he always tried his hardest, tried his best, he did something, he wanted to be the best it and wouldn’t settle for any less,” continued Snapp.
He was one of the greats, one who need to go by his last name to be recognized. Kobe.
Kobe nicknamed himself “Black Mamba.” From this nicknamed stemmed the “Mamba mentality.” This mentality emphasizes hard work and dedication. It also is about being humble and knowing when the job is done.
Lebron to Kobe to Jordan, you always three names. Kobe cemented his name in hard work. His Mamba mentality was that needs to be duplicated by everyone anything in life. Kobe is the epitome working hard,” said senior and men’s basketball player Bri’an Brown.
There is speculation that Bryant will be among the first inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Others are petitioning for the NBA to change their logo to include a silhouette of Kobe.
Kobe inspired generations of athletes through his work ethic and selflessness. Since his passing, many have been taking to Twitter to share their anecdotes, condolences, and favorite plays.
Out of all the memories shared, an anecdote shared by ESPN’s Elle Duncan pulled at heartstrings for many. Duncan recounted a time, the only time she met Kobe Bryant he talked about his love of being a “girl dad.” Duncan’s story is one of the many that are a testament that Kobe was a well-rounded role model, a family man.
Bryant walked away from the NBA April 2016 after scoring a 60-point farewell game against the Utah Jazz. ESPN the re-aired his final game on January 2020 to honor the contribution that Kobe the sport.
“[He] showed me that if you put in the work, limit in whatever you want to do in life,” Steven Silvers.
Kobe was one of the most iconic basketball players; his Mamba mentality was not just felt or inspirational to only athletes. Fans and admirers from around the globe are using his teachings to keep motivated and keep fighting.
Photo courtesy of Erik Thureson
What’s on the menu?
About T.J. Robert Dining Hall’s online presence
BY ALEX NUNN Staff Writer
The T.J. Roberts Dining hall is well-known to all who attend the University of the Cumberlands. That being said, there is an aspect to the Dining Hall that is unknown to students, such as whether the food their serving will be their cup of tea, or if they’ll be using a swipe for their least favorite meal. What many students of UC don’t know is that there’s a hidden solution to avoid this predicament.
Simply open either Facebook or Instagram and search “University of the Cumberlands Dining” (Facebook) or “UCPatsDining” (Instagram). Students may find themselves asking since when has the dining hall had an Instagram account, and technically it has been around since September 2019, and has been regularly updated ever since. Andrew Hackler, a UC junior, is one of many who were stunned by the information. Hackler said, “I’d probably have been going there way more often if I’d known what they were serving.”
UC senior Marcus (Alex) Agdeppa was so surprised that there was an Instagram page he went and looked for himself, surprised by the lack of followers in comparison to other UC-based social media pages. Agdeppa said, “I’ve been here this long, and avoided going to the dining hall only because I never knew what they were serving, they should definitely advertise more so people know.”
Another UC junior, Edward Dunne, recalled a time where the menu for the day used to be posted on a cork board near
the dining hall door, and when it was removed Dunne remarked, “I felt a lot more hesitant to go to the dining hall without knowing what they were serving.”
Administrative assistant
Sharon David-Petrey commented that their menu is posted on the page’s Instagram story, and is available for 24 hours saying, “We plan on continuing to keep students, staff and the public aware of menus. We also have plans to increase our presence on the pages for Starbucks, ChickFil-A, Tossed and Pete’s Eats, notifying students of specials and promotions and menus. We have also created a page for the new coffee house, Cumberland River Coffee House, coming in February 2020.”
The Patriot staff wins 14 awards from KPA
BY LEANNE GREGORY Staff Writer
On Jan. 24 the staff of The Patriot traveled to Lexington, Kentucky to participate in the annual Kentucky Press Association Excellence in Kentucky Newspapers awards. The event, which lasted from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., honored newspapers around the state for their journalistic endeavors with a banquet followed by an award ceremony, which recognized the best articles, photographs, and advertisements from the previous year. The Patriot was acknowledged with 14 awards in the student publications class one category, with nine individual awards and three advertising awards. The Patriot also received a second place General Excellence Award for their news coverage and a second place General Excellence Award in the KPA Advertising Excellence in Kentucky Contest.
Jeremiah Massengale, The Patriot’s faculty advisor, said, “I’m happy these talented student journalists earned some recognition for their many hours of hard work at The Patriot.”
UC senior Taylor Duke was awarded a first-place award for best
investigative story, a second-place award for best headline writer, a third-place award for best graphic and a third-place award for best use of color in an advertisement. UC alumnus Zane Ross won a first-place award for best feature picture and a first-place award for special event advertising, while UC alumnus Mike Krzyston was awarded a second-place award for best general news picture and a first-place award for best sports picture essay. UC senior Emilee Agee earned a first place-award for best headline writer and UC senior Leanne Gregory won a third-place award for best enterprise or analytical story. Additionally, the staff of the Patriot took home a first-place award for best use of social media and a first-place award for best holiday greeting ad. UC senior Emilee Agee said, “Our staff feels honored to represent the University of the Cumberlands at KPA and to have taken home 14 awards this year. This was my first year winning an award and it’s motivating to receive recognition for my hard work and to see the other staff members smiling as they receive theirs.”
Dracula
Review of the reinvisioned Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’ on Netflix
BY ABIGAIL FLETCHER StaffWriter
On Jan. 1, Netflix released the new horror television show “Dracula” based off the original novel by Bram Stoker. The story of “Dracula” is timeless and has seen many different interpretations. In total, 46 films have portrayed Stoker’s “Dracula” over the years. The new mini-series on Netflix takes on the age-old story in a new way. Although the Netflix story gives some “fresh blood” to the immortal story, this review includes no spoilers to the miniseries on Netflix. At the start of the first episode, the series prominently bases off the opening of the original novel. Jonathan Harker is shown on screen exactly where Stoker originally placed him in the first chapter. This placement could have foreshadowed the whole series being based off the novel. Luckily, the writers Mark Gatiss and Steven Moffat had a different vision for the series. Claes Bang, who plays Dracula, gave a fresh new look to the deadly, infamous and evil character. The actor gave Dracula a whole new personality one that viewers could sympathize. All the classic characters from Dr. Van Helsing to Lucy Westerena gave a breath of fresh exposition to the series. The acting shown from all characters was a seamless and bound with a connection to the author’s original vision. The cinematic aspect of the series was vital to the pace of the show. The series is described as horror and the camera work shows just that, for some of the filming intends to cause jump scares to some viewers. Although it is a horror genre, that aspect does not bog down the plot. The horror is not a focal point of the series.
The soundtrack to the series by David Arnold and Michael Price evoke a wide range of emotions to each episode. The impact the soundtrack portrays gives that immortal like vibe to the story. The opening theme gives that almost old-time feel with an anticipating drive. Each song gives that poise and class to “Dracula.” The soundtrack was reministic of gothic century of the 1800s giving that historic feel to a modern viewpoint. Viewers will feel from the soundtrack that historic time period through the classic and romantic period of music. The composition gives that rich overlay of chords and harmonious melodies that attest to the age-old difference between our time period and Dracula’s.
Viewers may feel a skepticism to the series due to the many interpretations proceeding it, but this new envisionment by Gatiss and Moffat gave “Dracula” a new platform of dominance. Although different from Stoker in many ways the readers will feel a personal connection the modernized version of “Dracula.” With only three episodes with each about an hour each, the series is a must watch for any “Dracula” or vampire fans. The new adaptation of “Dracula” will sink its teeth into your heart. leaving a scar on viewers’ hearts.
Photos courtesy of Hartswood Films
BY EMILEE AGEE
Staff Writer
‘Fine Line’ album review
Harry Styles’ album Fine Line, which debuted on December 13, was extremely anticipated. Styles has shown much growth since his One Direction days and still seems to be in the process of finding his genre and musical style. While his influences are evident, he chooses not to narrow in on one but pulls from a few, leaving the album not exactly cohesive as a whole, but like a collection of singles. The album starts strong with “Golden’s” burst of soft rock energy. Its instrumentals are uplifting and syrupy while Styles’ keeps his voice low and smooth, an embodiment of a late-night drive with the windows down. Track two, “Watermelon Sugar,” is playful. It’s a flirtatious and groovy ode to summer love. While short and sweet, it’s very formulaic. Track three, “Adore You,” is next. It’s another love song, but less playful and more genuine. It’s synth bass and 80s influences are appealing, but Styles’ vocal performance is what stands out most. Speaking of vocals, “Lights Up” is one of the more successful singles Styles released, showcasing the force in his vocal abilities. And the gospel-like backup vocals are infectious, but the verses easily get lost in the mixing.
“Cherry” is track five. It provides a far too harsh mood shift from Lights Up’s motivating punch to a melancholy ballad featuring the voicemailfrom-your-ex cliché. It carries one off into their own bittersweet memories with the soft-stripped acoustic guitar. The half-way point on the album is “Falling.” “Falling” successfully does what “Cherry” lacked. The verses are clear and cutting. The difference lyrically with this song compared to the previous ones is the idea of realizing you don’t like the person you’ve become and making the pivotal decision to
fix yourself. Styles’ also impresses vocally with his long-held high note in the bridge. “To Be So Lonely” is perplexing in the way the lyrics are gloomy, but instrumentally it sounds relaxed and beachy. In this way, the feelings of loneliness can be expressed without being another downer track following “Cherry” and “Falling.” It works in terms of the structure of the album, but alone it seems to disagree with itself. Track 8 is exciting in the way it completely separates itself from all other tracks. Its long droning Pink Floyd-esque instrumentals are something to appreciate with its own originality that reveals the inner struggle Styles feels with the feminine energy that lives inside of him. With lines like, “She lives in daydreams with me and I don’t know why, I don’t know who she is,” it could be gathered that “she” is not someone that exists outside of his head and is a deeper part of himself. It’s one of the most gratifying songs on the album in the way that it gives the listeners a glimpse of something personal and complicated that Styles imagines bringing into the light.
“Sunflower Vol. 6” follows as a cheery reggae-inspired tune that provides relief from the heaviness of the previous tracks and hits the mark in terms of creativity. Unfortunately, that can’t be said for “Canyon Moon” or “Treat People with Kindness,” as they are both equally as cheesy in their own way. The last track “Fine Line” sounded nice until I remembered that Bon Iver exists and does the breathy falsetto a little better, but there’s no denying the soothing quality it brings. As a whole, I was hoping Styles would live up to his eccentric flair, but the album was a little safe. 3/5.
Mamba mix
Every game needs music to pump up the players and the crowd. This week, we decided to curate a playlist of songs that are likely to get any arena ready for the sweet sight of basketball.
Picture courtesy of Columbia Records
