Unexpected winter wonderland in ECU Carolinian
It is not typical for East Carolina University to see a sheet of white coating the entire campus. However, when it does happen, students are quick to take advantage of the winter wonderland atmosphere.
Some students spend their days off in the comfort of their warm homes, while others spend every second in the crisp snow. With ice forming on the sidewalks and streets, everyone enjoyed the slower pace of the day with moments of relaxation and fun.
When word of the approaching snowstorm spread, ECU officials were quick to send out alerts to Greenville/Pitt County schools. On February 19, ECU Alert sent out an email regarding the Winter Storm Warning issued by the National Weather Service for the Greenville/Pitt County area.
According to ECU Alert, “Snow accumulations are expected to be between 1-2 inches, with a maximum of 6 inches, along with 0.1-0.25 inches of ice are expected to impact Greenville.” All classes and events were cancelled beginning Wednesday, February 19, through noon Thursday, February 20.
A follow up email was sent by ECU Alerts on February 21 stating that in-person classes are encouraged to continue with an alternate course delivery until 5 p.m. that day. This ensured that no students or faculty would have to face dangerous conditions on campus and the roads.
Students, on campus and off, were able to soak in the last three days off from classes. For freshman Addysen Worsham, she spent her snow day sledding down the “fishbowl”, the hill near Sup Dogs on 5th Street, with her friends. She even spent some
of her time catching up on schoolwork before classes started up again. “Getting food was a big challenge because the dining hall and everything on campus closed early,” she said. Addysen also added, “It was very hard because of the ice. I may have wiped out a couple times.”
Cara Neary, sophomore at ECU, had a more relaxed snow day experience. Her and her roommates made time together to watch movies, play board games, and even ordered a pizza. Despite their usual pizza place being closed from the snow, she didn't face any challenges and spent her time in her apartment. She does believe that ECU did their part by cancelling classes but did have one complaint. “The roads were not cleared at all.”
As college students, snow days are exciting but there is still controversy when it comes to academics. Faculty members like
Pirates baseball season series
swept by UNC Chapel Hill
Skillman FOR THE EAST CAROLINIAN
East Carolina University’s baseball team (2-5, 0-0 American Athletic Conference) took on No.5 The University Of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (7-0, 0-0 Atlantic Coast Conference) in a three game series this past weekend, with the Tar Heels sweeping the series 3-0. With the three game loss, it’s the first time since 1999 that the Pirates lost all three games in a season to the Tar Heels. Due to inclement weather, Friday's game was pushed back until Monday, making the first game of the series take place on Saturday, Feb. 22 at Durham Bulls Athletic Park in Durham, North Carolina. Sophomore pitcher Ethan Norby got the start in
the first game, pitching 4.2 innings with 2 earned runs on just four hits. UNC’s two runs scored would go on to be the only runs scored in the game, despite ECU out hitting UNC 6-5 in the first game.
The Pirates weren’t able to capitalize after getting runners on base, which seemed to be the common theme throughout the series. In the second game of the series, UNC had home turf in Boshamer Stadium in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Freshman pitcher Sean Jenkins got the start in game two, pitching 3.1 innings with three runs let up and two strikeouts.
> BASEBALL page A7
Rachel Son, Assistant Professor for the School of Communication, had to figure out ways to make up for the lost class time in order for her classes to not fall behind.
“There was anticipation that inclement weather could potentially affect our classes. So, we refer to what guidelines are set for how to respond to these situations as a whole. Individually, each faculty member may have varied feelings because of how the days off may affect their course schedule,” Son said.
According to Professor Son, the snow days did not overly disrupt her classes. “I was fortunate that the snow days did not have as much of an impact on the schedule compared to the previous snow days because we had already built time in the schedule for these to be workdays,” she explained. Her in-person classes switched to online format for the time being.
From an academic standpoint, Son made note that all students are different. Some of them can benefit from a mental break and others have a hard time bouncing back after their learning gets disrupted.
Most perspectives believe that ECU made the right decision cancelling classes due to the icy roads and bad conditions. While keeping campus open would be more beneficial for students and faculty, Son explained that safety concerns are the top priority.
The university did its best to handle the situation properly and the campus community was able to adapt to the unexpected three days of snow.
On February 22, ECU memorialized former Biology Professor Enrique Reyes. Family members, friends, and colleagues spoke about Reyes and the impact he had on their lives. Five speakers spoke during the memorial, honoring his memory.
According to ECU’s Department of Biology, Reyes taught at ECU for 17 years and retired in 2022.
Starting at ECU in 2005, Reyes became a beloved faculty member and a close friend to many colleagues. Through their love of motorcycles and wine, Reyes became close friends with chemistry professor Paul Hager, biology professor Jason Bond, and retired professor Terry West.
Wine was a common topic discussed by each speaker. Each speaker, most notably Bond, repeatedly mentioned Reyes’s love of wine and how wine helped their friendship grow stronger. Wine allowed Bond, Reyes, Hager, and biology professor Jean-luc Scemama to become a tight-knit friend group that went to wine tastings together.
Reyes’ nephew Raúl Farías was the first to speak about Reyes. Farías talked about his uncle’s love of Greenville. After Reyes retired in 2022, Farías tried to get Reyes to move to California to be closer to his family.
However, Reyes chose to stay in Greenville. Farías said Reyes told him, “I love this small town,” when Reyes told him he did not want to move to California.
PHOEBE GREGG I THE EAST CAROLINIAN
ECU students walk their dogs on campus in the midst of the unexpected snow days. Students enjoyed their time off.
Giuliana Barberio TEC STAFF
Dakota Hamm TEC STAFF
PHOEBE GREGG I THE EAST CAROLINIAN
The cupola at East Carolina University in the midst of the snow .
Garett
BECCA ERZEN I THE EAST CAROLINIAN
ECU freshman pitcher Bradley Zayac throwing a pitch against UNC Chapel Hill in series finale.
PHOEBE GREGG I THE EAST CAROLINIAN
Students walk up the steps at ECU during their days off starting Wednesday.
Brinkley-Lane Scholars holds Selection Sunday BRIEFS
ECU assists western NC with historical homes survey
East Carolina University students and faculty assisted in a historic house survey in Western North Carolina on Jan. 25-26, which helped document the storm of Hurricane Helene. They partnered with the Preservation Society of Asheville and Buncombe County to survey 400 historic homes in Montreat, North Carolina.
Led by ECU professor Dr. Jennifer McKinnon and research fellow Chelsea Freeland, they assessed damage and aid to help preservation.
Twelve ECU graduate students participated, joined by an alumni working with FEMA. Volunteers documented structural damage to roofs, siding, and foundations.
ECU professor researches genetics linked with SIDS
Dr. Keith Keene, a professor in East Carolina University’s Department of Biology, has spent over 15 years researching genetic markers that may contribute to sudden infant death syndrome. He aims to identify biomarkers in gene, blood, and tissues that could help diagnose and prevent the condition.
Keene’s research is now funded by a $2.3 million National Institutes of Health grant, which helps him look at biological risk factors rather than environmental ones. The syndrome remains the second leading cause of infant deaths in the U.S. While some risk factors have been identified, Keene’s research focuses more on genetics. His team has looked at over 300 cases using next generation sequencing and metabolics to find biological indicators of risk.
CORRECTIONS & CLARIFICATIONS
If you feel there are any factual errors in this newspaper, please contact editor@theeastcarolinian.com.
On February 16th East Carolina University’s Brinkley Lane Scholars program held Selection Sunday to choose future scholars and the winners of this year's scholarships.
Alexandra Puckett, a junior double majoring in chemistry and biology and a current scholar, said every year, they invite 50 finalists to ECU. She said this year, they had 45 from around the country and 4 international finalists who participated through Zoom.
Puckett said this scholarship provides a fully funded education at ECU, as well as a $5,000 stipend to study abroad. However, it's so much more than the money as Puckett has learned so much through this program. “It has taught me so much about the world that I was not aware of before coming to college,” said Puckett.
She said it was beneficial coming to ECU having already established a community who supports her, and wants to see her succeed. “It's really a community of tight knit people who genuinely care about your thoughts and feelings and your education, which is something I didn't see at the other universities,” Puckett said.
Kendall Pixley, a junior double majoring in biology and public health and co-chair for Selection Sunday, said they prioritize the finalists understanding what Brinkley-Lane is about. She said each finalist is paired with a current scholar to escort them through the day’s activities to make sure the finalists hear about the scholarship through a student's perspective.
Pixley said Selection Sunday was the most important day of her life, and was her deciding factor when choosing ECU. The community she saw between the scholars made her feel like she belonged there. “It easy to feel like a number if they only want you there to boost their stats, but ECU, the Honors College, and Brinkley-Lane is completely different from that,” said Pixley.
Pixley said during this event the finalists learn about study abroad programs, special curriculums, experiences from current scholars, and more. They also have an individual interview, and a group interaction with the selection chairs that make the final decision, and meet Dr. Ford, the Director of this program.
Katie Ford, the associate dean of the Honors College and Director of the Brinkley Lane program, said scholars benefit from Selection Sunday when looking to build connections at ECU. Coming from highschool, the finalists can find the day overwhelming, but once they arrive they see the community of Brinkley Lane and
feel the support within the group.
“What you want when you come to ECU is to feel that there's connections and that you can come into a community, and that we can benefit from the community and help the community grow,” said Dr. Ford. She said this is what Brinkley Lane has to offer, and they focus on showing finalists the tight knit community on Selection Sunday.
She said the funding for this scholarship is donated by alumni and friends of the college. Dr. Ford said they always invite alumni to Selection Sunday, and even though they aren't obligated to, most want to come and be involved. “I'm always surprised by how many people say yes, and that
really is because of the relationships that they've created in this community,” said Dr. Ford.
This is Dr. Ford’s third time directing Selection Sunday, and she said it's such an amazing day because it's so full of excitement. She said what she loves most about this job is seeing where the finalists are coming from, and looking at the current scholars, and seeing how much they've grown since being in the finalists’ position. It's a program that transforms you as a person, she said. “I'm always confident the future of the program will be really strong because the students we get are so strong,” Dr. Ford said.
This
the destruction that Hurricane Katrina would cause in New Orleans back in 2005. “Enrique was a gifted scientist,” said Bond.
West described Reyes as warm, extroverted, and self-assured. West was a part of the committee that hired Reyes. West talked about Reyes' generosity while speaking about the time Reyes offered up his home during a department-wide meeting. “It was his warm character and attitude,” West said.
Biology professor Jason Bond discussed Reyes’ expertise, especially when it came to water. Bond would tell about Reyes predicting
Reyes hired biology professor Erin Field. Field spoke about how Reyes would host dinners and wine tastings at his wife's house. Field said she met a lot of people through the gatherings, including her husband. “He meant so much to all of us, I hope he really knows that,” said Field.
This writer can be contacted at
Hailey Yentz, ECU track and field player suffers cardiac arrest
Candon Johnson TEC STAFF
On February 10th the unthinkable happened as Hailey Yentz, ECU track and field player, suffered cardiac arrest while working out with teammates in the Murphy Center on campus. She was taken to ECU Medical Center where doctors and healthcare workers began to try and save her life.
“I was terrified, shocked,” said Yentz.
After waking in her hospital room, Yentz was told that for a moment she had died. Luckily the medical professionals were able to save her life and get her back in a stable condition.
“I don’t have any words to express
besides thank you to everyone who helped save my life,” she said.
Yentz has played with ECU’s track team since her freshman year. Before that, she played track and soccer for Patriot High School in Nokesville, Virginia.
In the days following the event, Yentz spent her time recovering.
“To come out of that alive and walking is just truly a miracle,” she said.
Her goal now is to focus on her health and try to recover from her ordeal with the help of doctors, her friends, and family.
“I definitely have a long road ahead of me and it's scary and unknown, but I'm hoping that with my support system around me, I'll find a new passion for life.” she said.
TRISHA RANGARAJU I THE EAST CAROLINIAN
A group of current Brinkley-Lane Scholars and Brinkley-Lane finalists at the annual Selection Sunday.
Alexa Anderson TEC STAFF
GABE KEY I THE EAST CAROLINIAN
A group of people standing at Enrique Reyes, former ECU Biology Professor's, memorial service.
Hailey Yentz
OUR VIEW
We, the editorial staff of The East Carolinian, believe that our baseball team isn’t living up to the expectations of ECU baseball. It is the first time in eight years that our team hasn’t been ranked, which is the expectation of our baseball team almost every year. Baseball is our most successful sport we have at East Carolina, so starting the season off 2-5 isn’t the greatest start to the season.
Even though we had a lot of players lost to the transfer portal, the MLB draft, and many graduate, we feel that we shouldn’t have as poor of a start to the season that we’re having. Having a successful team attracts a lot of excitement for our students, leading to the “Jungle” being packed and rowdy. Since we’re on a four game losing streak, the “Jungle” wasn’t as hyped up as it has been in the past.
Losing three straight games to The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill this past weekend was a bad look for the program, considering they are big in state rivals every year. We fear that players may not look at us as a baseball powerhouse anymore if we continue to lose. If we finish the season not living up to expectations, then players may not want to transfer here next season and help our team win.
If our team wants to get back on track we need to take advantage of beating teams worse than us for the rest of the season. Given that UNC is one of the best programs in the country this year, the three straight losses to them isn’t as hurtful as it may have been in the past. Our freshman players need to start to step up to help us win, especially if we want to go positive in this weekend’s LeClair Classic.
PIRATE RANTS
The president of the United States should be competent, ethical, and full of vigor. This is obvious given the demands of the job. Yet former President Joe Biden, who’s 82 years old, didn’t run for reelection over concerns about his mental facilities. And current president Donald Trump, himself 78, actively tried to reverse the previous election.
Is this really the best we can do for America’s top job?
The presidency, however, isn’t the only problem. The median age in the Senate is 65 years old. The House of Representatives is packed with under-qualified social-media celebrities. And discontent with the judiciary is so bad that many want to impose term limits on federal judges.
Indeed, a recent New York Times poll found that nearly 90 percent of Americans think the nation’s political system is broken.
There are, of course, many skillful public servants. And they quietly do important work every day. But far too many government officials shouldn’t have the responsibility we’ve given them.
The American government’s people problem is driven by several factors. First, incumbents stick around far too long. Biden’s long refusal to withdraw from the 2024 election may have cost Democrats the presidency. If Kamala Harris had campaigned for multiple years (like Trump did) instead of multiple months, she might have won. By the end of his term, moreover, Biden was far from the right person to occupy the Oval Office.
Ruth Bader Ginsberg likewise held onto her job too long. She could have resigned during Barack Obama’s first term when
she was 80, and the Democrats controlled the Senate. She refused. And Trump later replaced Ginsberg with Amy Coney Barrett, who promptly joined a bare majority of justices and overturned Roe v. Wade. Justice Sonia Sotomayor, who is 70, likewise rejected calls to step aside while Biden was president.
In Congress, meanwhile, the median age in the House is 57 and, as noted, 65 in the Senate. Yet the median age in the country is 39. Being an incumbent carries a big advantage: you can keep your constituents happy with results from office. This dynamic populates Congress, with people who were first elected long ago. Nancy Pelosi has been in the House since 1987. Mitch McConnell has been in the Senate since 1984. Both are over 80 years old.
WHY IS THE BUILDING SO GOD DAMN HOT, IT’S MAKING ME SICK LEGITIMATELY, ALMOST THREW UP FROM HEAT STROKE.
Why does everyone make such a big deal about SGA elections when once the President and VP are voted on, they don’t even accomplish things of substance.
Why do academic advisors take like a week to reply to your emails? Or even if you need to schedule an appointment to meet, you can’t meet for like two weeks.
Why are due dates a thing?
Professors need to learn that I like to procrastinate and just give me the A so I can graduate.
Why does ECU have to shut down school and go into panic mode when we get less than an inch of snow. All classes should be canceled on St. Patrick’s day.
The weather in NC needs to make up its mind. Is it snowing or is it 70 degrees out!
Why do the bathrooms stink in the Speight building.
Say what you will about the whirlwind first month of President Donald Trump’s second term, but even his vocal critics couldn’t accuse him of avoiding the media or tough questions.
In stark contrast to his doddering predecessor, Trump defends his agenda virtually every day, providing the American people with regular updates on what his administration is doing and why. Perhaps this helps explain why his approval ratings are the highest of his career.
Compare Trump’s vim and vigor with former President Joe Biden’s preference for the White House basement. Axios noted in July that Biden had “engaged in fewer press confer-
ences and media interviews than any of the last seven presidents.” According to presidential scholar Martha Joynt Kumar, Axios noted, Biden had “given fewer media interviews than any other president since at least” Ronald Reagan.
At one point, Joe Concha noted in Politico in 2023, it had been 150 days since Biden had held a formal news conference in the White House. “Let that sink in,” he wrote. “The U.S. president has refused to speak with any reporter who isn’t pre-approved from a very short list in the past five months.”
Trump, meanwhile, has made a number of eye-poking moves in the past four weeks but hasn’t shied away from addressing any controversy. “So far, like a good foreman of a moving company, Trump has done everything he can to guide Americans through his vast and lofty
plans and actions,” David Marcus wrote this week for Fox News. “As long as this radical transparency continues, the Trump administration will have a long runway of good will to land its policies and transform America.” Marcus is correct, and the White House is to be applauded for offering virtually unprecedented access. But for the Trump administration to fully embrace transparency, it must also acknowledge the value of open records and instruct federal agencies to comply with Freedom of Information Act requests rather than obstruct legitimate efforts to keep American taxpayers informed about the workings of the government they fund and the bureaucracies that work on their behalf.
The East Carolinian does
Arts & Entertainment
TODAY
The Stews at The State Theatre
110 West 5th St , Greenville, NC 27858
7:00 PM to 11:59 PM
Spring 2025 Studio Crawl
School of Art and Design, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858
5:00 PM to 7:00 PM 252-328-6665
Homeschool Art Class
Jaycee Park Center for Arts and Crafts
2000 Cedar Lane, Greenville, NC 27858
9:30 AM to 10:30 AM 2523294546
Tomorrow
David Higgs in concert
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
401 East Fourth St., Greenville, NC 27858
7:00 PM to 8:00 PM 252-752-3482
ECU Chamber Singers at St. James United Methodist Church
2000 E 6th St , Greenville, NC 27858
7:30 PM to 9:00 PM 252-752-6154
Steve Hofstetter Comedy Show
The State Theatre 110 West 5th St , Greenville, NC 27858
7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Friends of Sheppard Memorial Library Used Book Sale
Greenville Convention Center
303 SW Greenville Blvd, Greenville, NC 27858
10:00 AM to 5:00 PM 252-321-7671
Opening and Artist Talk
Farmville Community Arts Council
3723 N. Main Street, Farmville, NC 27828
6:00 PM to 9:00 PM 252-753-3832
Take 10 Band at Buccaneer Music Hall
2120 E Fire Tower Rd, Greenville, NC 27858
10:00 PM to 11:59 PM 252-756-5505
Tunes & Taps: Live Music Fridays at 5th Street
Hardware Restaurant and Taproom 120 W 5th St, Greenville, NC 27858
7:00 PM to 10:00 PM 252-364-8921
Saturday
Bonnie Pirate Duo Sweet Aji 801 Dickinson Ave, Greenville, NC 27834
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM 252-227-4512
Nauti Gras
Nauti Dog Brewing Co.
210 Main Street, Winterville, NC 28590
12:00 PM to 11:00 PM 252-227-4231
ECU Symphony Orchestra
ECU A. J. Fletcher Music Center
102 A. J. Fletcher Music Center, Greenville, NC 27858
ECU holds annual art exhibition reception
7:30 PM to 9:00 PM 252-328-6851 Mark Roman TEC STAFF Madison Lanier FOR THE EAST CAROLINIAN &
East Carolina University’s School of Art and Design held its 17th annual grad student art exhibit reception on Feb. 24, at 4 p.m. in the Janice Hardison Faulkner Gallery, located inside Joyner Library.
Charlotte Fitz Daniels is the program and events coordinator at Joyner Library, she also manages the Gallery. Daniels job is to both plan and organize events at the Library and at the Gallery. She says that the goal of the exhibition is to “support and highlight the work that our students do, we want to…show the success they’re having.”
The exhibit first opened on Dec. 11 and will continue through Feb. 28 featuring artworks in many different mediums ranging from paintings, drawings, pottery and sculptures.
The reception also included an awards show where artwork from the exhibit is chosen to win.
The awards are the Friends of Joyner Library Purchase Award, College of Fine Arts and Communication Dean’s Merit Award, Director’s
Award and School of Art and Design Award.
Autumn Standbridge received the Friends of Joyner Library Purchase Award for her work entitled, “The Sisters”. This piece is a multicolored woven image of two fawns together in the woods.
“The piece was inspired by my older sister and just the way our relationship has morphed throughout our lives,” Standbridge said. “She has always been this protective force that stands in front of me, and she continues to be that for me.”
The College of Fine Arts and Communication Dean’s Merit Award was presented to Haley McElroy for her sculpture of two women entitled, “____”. The sculpture was designed to invoke feelings of curiosity and frustration in viewers.
“Sometimes when you make work that’s more visceral or seems uncomfortable, you tend to assume that you’re not going to get it because it’s not deemed beautiful like in appearance wise or in aesthetics,” McElroy said.
The Director’s Award was received by Paul Edwards for his piece, “Weight”. The School of Art and Design Award was presented to Tansy O’Bryant for “Who Are You Talking To?”.
These four pieces were of many showcased
at the exhibit. Each with different colors, shapes and textures.
All of these pieces can currently be found in the Janice Hardison Faulkner Gallery, located inside Joyner Library. This Gallery was integrated into Joyner Library in 2014.
“I think [ECU] was kind of the groundbreaker as far as having an exhibit space in an academic library,” Daniels said. “I think it is becoming something that other libraries are starting to think about so I am kind of proud that we were early into this.”
Having this gallery at ECU gives students a place to view art. The art awarded at the exhibit will be available for viewing through Feb. 28. Having this reception allowed students a chance to be recognized and celebrate their successes in creating these pieces.
“When artists break those boundaries and their work makes them uncomfortable as well as the audience uncomfortable, I really feel like that’s when the magic happens,” Exhibit Juror Sarah Lazure said.
Childern learn clay work with the Gnomies
Candon Johnson FOR THE EAST CAROLINIAN
This month, the Jaycee Center for Arts and Crafts held workshops for kids to learn the joys of working with clay. This time’s workshop was Chillin’ with my Gnomies, and children from the ages of six to twelve were tasked with crafting a gnome figure themselves and decorating it how they wanted.
This is not the center’s first time with this type of event. The center has been doing clay workshops for three years. Each workshop is centered around a different theme and allows the children to craft and decorate their own personal clay figure while making friends along the way. These workshops are an hour long a week and run for five weeks.
Sara Caropreso Ford is the center’s recreation supervisor and organizes the workshops. She has been the recreation supervisor for the park for nine years and has been with this workshop since the beginning. Before getting her position though, she graduated from ECU with a degree in fine arts in 2014. Thanks to her concentration in ceramics, she was hired to fill the position as the recreational supervisor in 2016.
“They saw my degree and the experience that I had and thought I’d be a good fit for the position.” she said.
From that day on, Sara has worked for the center supervising events and coordinating workshops for children and adults alike. Registration for the next workshop will be March 27 and it will have the prompt Chillin’ with my Gnomies again. You can register at GreenvilleNC.gov. It will be $90 per session (a $60 Greenville resident fee) and be instructed by Alexis at the Jaycee center for Arts and Crafts.
“The most rewarding thing for me is watching the children make friends and get creative,” she said.
For more information about future workshops and events happening around the Greenville area, visit visitgreenvillenc.com’s event calendar.
Classifieds & Puzzles
Jacqueline E. Mathews
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — Today is a 9 — Find creative ways to grow your family nest egg. A lucrative two-week phase dawns with tonight’s New Moon. Launch valuable initiatives with your partner.
HOROSCOPES
Aries (March 21-April 19) — Today is a 6 — Dreams seem within reach. Insights, breakthroughs and revelations sparkle under tonight’s New Moon. Enjoy a two-week creative, imaginative and organizational phase. Imagine the possibilities.
Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Today is an 8 — Connect shared support for big results. This New Moon phase benefits team efforts. Grow through friendships, social networks and community participation. Have fun together.
Gemini (May 21-June 20) — Today is an 8 — This New Moon illuminates career opportunities. Develop interesting projects over the next two weeks. Pursue exciting possibilities. Your professional status and influence rise.
Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Today is a 7 — Educational opportunities arise after tonight’s New Moon. The next two-week phase favors study, investigation and exploration. Consider new perspectives. Make connections, contributions and discoveries.
COMICS
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Today is an 8 — Collaboration comes naturally, especially over two weeks following tonight’s Pisces New Moon. You’re on the same wavelength. Take your partnership to the next level.
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) — Today is a 9 — Energize your physical moves. This New Moon initiates two weeks of strengthening work and health. Put your heart into your actions. Practice makes perfect.
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) — Today is an 8 — Enjoy yourself. Stir up some romance. The New Moon begins a two-week family, fun and passion phase. Get creative. It’s all for love.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) — Today is a 7 — Realize domestic visions with upgrades over a twoweek New Moon phase. Get creative. Improve the beauty and functionality of your home. Nurture your family.
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Today is an 8 — Profit through communications. Possibilities spark in conversation over this two-week New Moon phase. Creative projects flower. Express, share and connect. Write your story.
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) — Today is a 9 — Begin a lucrative New Moon phase. Discover fresh markets and rising prosperity. Strengthen financial foundations for growth. Rake in and conserve a healthy harvest.
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — Today is a 9 — Pursue personal dreams. Expand talents, capacities and skills over two weeks, with the New Moon in your sign. Grow and develop. Shine your light.
Created by Jacqueline E. Mathews
The East Carolinian Sports experts predict this week’s events
Garett Skillman TEC Sports Editor
ECU VS. ASU Score Prediction?
ECU 3-0
Why?
Despite getting swept by UNC this weekend, the bullpen showed that they can hang with one of the best teams in the country. Even though we didn’t knock in as many runs as we hoped, we still showed we can get guys on base, it’s just a matter of getting hot at the right times. I think Cliff Godwin get’s this thing figured out sooner rather than later, so I think we beat Kent State, Indiana State, and Virginia Tech to sweep the weekend.
Caleb Johnson TEC Sports Reporter
ECU VS. ASU
ECU 2-1
Why?
The Pirates are due for some wins especially after last weekend’s series against UNC. I believe the team will go 2-1 through the three games with wins over Kent State and Indiana State. I do not think the Pirates have the fire power in the batter’s box right now to knock off a top level program like Virginia Tech.
Nick
Green WZMB Sports & News Director
ECU VS. ASU Score Prediction?
ECU 3-0
Why?
Here come the Pirates. I get this might be bold but the Pirates showed a lot of promise despite getting swept against Carolina and these young guys proved they have the talent so it won’t be much longer before we put it all together. The bullpen is deep, the bats are starting to get hot, we just need to take advantage of the runners on base and I think we’ll figure it out. The Pirates need a confidence booster and I think that starts this weekend sweeping the LeClair Classic.
ECU hosts Keith LeClair Classic
The Keith LeClair Classic is an annual baseball tournament hosted by East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina. Established in 2004, the event honors the legacy of former ECU head baseball coach Keith LeClair, who led the Pirates from 1997 to 2002 before his untimely passing in 2006 due to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
LeClair’s tenure was marked by significant achievements, including four straight NCAA Regional appearances and multiple conference championships. His impact on the program and the broader baseball community continues to be celebrated through this tournament. The 22nd annual Keith LeClair Classic is scheduled to take place from Feb. 28 to March 2, 2025, at ECU’s Clark-LeClair Stadium.
This year’s tournament features a competitive lineup of teams: East Carolina University (2-5, 0-0 American Athletic Conference), Virginia Tech University (5-2, 0-0 Atlantic Coast Conference), Kent State University (1-5, 0-0 Mid-American Conference) and Indiana State University (4-3, 0-0 Missouri Valley Conference). Each team brings its own unique history and recent performance highlights to the event.
East Carolina University (ECU):
Under the guidance of 11th-year head coach Cliff Godwin, the Pirates have established themselves as a formidable force in collegiate baseball. ECU has secured five consecutive AAC regular-season titles and has consistently participated in NCAA Regionals, hosting the event five times since 2018. The 2025 season has had a rocky start as the Pirates are a whimsical 2-5, their worst start in three years.
Virginia Tech:
The Hokies, representing the ACC, have a storied baseball tradition. Led by head coach John Szefc, Virginia Tech has demonstrated consistent competitiveness within the ACC. They have kicked off their 2025 campaign to a hot 5-2 start, and will be looking to build on that this weekend. They will play Indiana State on Friday at noon, Kent State at noon Saturday and will play the host team ECU at 3:30 on Sunday.
Indiana State University:
Competing in the MVC, the Sycamores have a history of success, including multiple NCAA Tournament appearances. Under head coach Mitch Hannahs, Indiana State has been recognized for its strong pitching and disciplined play. They are 4-3 through their first seven games and will be looking to add to the win column this weekend. They open play against Virginia Tech, then will play ECU on Saturday at 4:30. To close out the tournament, the Sycamores will play Kent State at an early 11:00 A.M.
Kent State University:
Kent State is the final team competing in the 22nd annual Leclair Classic. The Golden Flashes are led by head coach Jeff Duncan and represent the MAC. They will come to Clark-Leclair stadium hungry for triumph as they have started 1-5 on the year. Kent
State will open the tournament with the crowd favorite Pirates at 4:30 on Friday. They will play Virginia Tech Saturday and Indiana State Sunday before they head back to Portage County, Ohio.
The Keith LeClair Classic not only serves as a platform for high-caliber collegiate baseball but also as a special tribute to Coach LeClair’s enduring legacy. His contributions to ECU and the sport have left an immovable mark, inspiring both players and fans alike. As the 2025 tournament unfolds, it promises to deliver exciting matchups and showcase emerging talent, all while honoring the memory of a coach who profoundly in his own way impacted the game.
Pirates withstand UTSA
ECU mens basketball (16-12, 8-7 American Athletic Conference) withstands University of Texas San Antonio (10-17, 4-11 AAC) in an overtime thriller 96-89. In this matchup the Pirates shot over 50% from both the field and three. Senior guard RJ Felton scored 30 points on the night on 5-5 shooting from three.
This matchup was reminiscent of the first time these two teams faced off on Feb, 8. Both games were neck and neck through both halves with the two teams battling back and forth. In this meeting RJ Felton led the Pirates and the game in scoring with 30 total points. Felton shot 10-15 from the field and 5-5 from three all while adding four rebounds, three assists, and three steals. This was Felton’s third thirty point game of the season.
Senior guard Jordan Riley put up 17 of his own points along with eight rebounds, four assists, and three steals. Senior guard Cam Hayes notched 16 points, four assists and three steals for the Pirates. Junior guards Yann Farell and Trevion LaBeaux each added nine points to the ECU total.
The Pirates shot 52.6% 30-57 from the field and 56.3% from three 9-16. ECU won the rebound battle 33-30 and won the turnover battle 12-14. East Carolina recorded 13 total assists on the night. The first half opened with a three point basket from LaBeaux. The two teams proceeded to trade baskets for all 20 minutes. Neither team was able to pull away and find a lead. Felton hit all five of his three point shots in the first half.
The second half was much of the same. The scoring opened up with free throws from senior forward C.J. Walker. With the game tied at 39 with around 18 minutes to play, the Roadrunners went on a 20-11 run to give them an eight point lead. The Pirates
quickly answered with an 11-2 run of their own to close the gap.
The two teams went back and forth for the remainder of the half. ECU was down two with one minute to play, then Hayes hit a mid-range jump shot to tie the game at 82. Following the basket from Hayes neither team could find a winner in regulation so the game was sent to overtime.
The Overtime period began with a dunk from Riley off of the tip off. Clutch baskets from Felton, Hayes, and Junior guard Jayshayne Woodard following the Riley jam helped put the game away. Some scrapy defensive plays from Woodard helped seal the game for the Pirates.
The Pirates will be back in action for senior day against University of North Carolina Charlotte (10-17, 3-11 AAC) at 12 p.m. on Sunday March, 2. The game will be played in Greenville at Minges Coliseum. ESPNU/ESPN2 will be broadcasting the game for those who can’t make it to the game.
COURTESY OF ECU PIRATES
Junior infielder Dixon Williams rounds the bases after hitting a home run vs. George Mason.
San Antonio.
CAROLINIAN Graduate student forward C.J. Walker holds up the ball vs. UTSA.
Caleb Johnson TEC STAFF
Pirates lose thriller match in double OT
Logan Harlow TEC STAFF
The East Carolina women’s basketball team (15-11, 6-7 American Athletic Conference) came up just short in a thrilling double overtime battle with the University of North Texas (15-11, 9-4 AAC), falling 75-73. The game, held at Minges Coliseum, was an intense battle with the Pirates leading for much of the game, but North Texas snatched victory late in overtime.
ECU was led by junior forward Amiya Joyner, who put up 19 points and grabbed a monstrous 20 rebounds, tying her career high and the second 20 rebound game of her career. Sophomore guard Khia Miller also had a standout performance, scoring 20 points, including four three pointers, to help keep the Pirates in the game.
The fourth quarter was a turning point, with ECU holding a steady lead until North Texas rattled off an 8-0 run to take their first lead since the opening quarter. ECU fought back, with sophomore guard Jayla Hearp making a crucial free throw with 24 seconds left that sent the game into overtime. The Pirates briefly regained the lead in the first overtime thanks to a 7-0 run, but North Texas responded with a clutch three point shot from senior guard Jaaucklyn Moore, forcing a second extra overtime period.
In the second overtime, ECU once again led by four points but struggled with turnovers, which allowed North Texas to regain the upper hand and ultimately secure the win. Despite the loss, ECU had a strong performance on the boards, out rebounding North Texas 47-39. It was a gritty game, but another game where the turnovers were ECU’s downfall, this time leading to 30 of North Texas’s 75 points.
While the result was disappointing, the game highlighted some significant individual achievements. Joyner’s 20 rebounds was an eye popping amount, and with four blocks, senior forward Tatyana Wyche moved into the top 10 in ECU history for career blocks. The Pirates will look to bounce back when they face Florida Atlantic University (10-18, 2-13 AAC) on Feb. 26. at 7 p.m.
Pirates basketball drops a game on the road at Tulane
East Carolina (15-12, 7-7 American Athletic Conference) men’s basketball drops a close one on the road against Tulane University (1511, 9-4 AAC) 81-86. Despite having four players score over 14 points the Pirates were defeated in New Orleans. The Pirates scored the first basket of the ball game and did not lead for the remainder of the night.
Senior guard Jordan Riley led ECU in scoring with 19 points to pair with his eight rebounds. Senior guard RJ Felton scored 18, Senior forward C.J. Walker recorded 14 points and four rebounds, and Junior guard Yann Farell added 14 of his own points to the campaign.
East Carolina shot 29-72 (40.3%) from the field and 10-30 (30%) from three. The Pirates were out rebounded by the Green Wave 41-37. Despite losing the rebound battle ECU won the turnover battle 8-14. The Pirates allowed two green wave players to score over 20 points. Junior forward Kaleb Banks notched 25 points and seven rebounds and was the leading scorer
in the matchup. Sophomore guard Rowan Brumbaugh scored a crafty 21 points while also adding seven assists and six rebounds to lead Tulane to a home victory.
East Carolina scored the opening basket of the ball game on a layup from Riley. Tulane went on to immediately notch an 8-0 run, putting them in the driver’s seat. The Green Wave stayed hot for the remainder of the half and led by 13 at the end of the first 20 minutes, 32-46.
The second half began and the Pirates ripped off a 9-2 run to cut the Green Wave lead to just seven. Tulane then went on to put up their own 7-0 run to reestablish their position.
Tulane continued to hold their lead for the final 15 minutes of the half, leading by double digits for the majority of it. In the final minute the Pirates were down 10. A three from Felton, two threes for Farell, and a jump shot from junior guard Jayshayne Woodard brought ECU back within five. The horn blared and the Pirates were defeated 81-86.
By the time this story is published the Pirates will have already faced off against the University of Texas San Antonio (10-17, 4-11
AAC). Their next matchup will be against University of North Carolina Charlotte (10-17, 3-11 AAC) at 12 p.m. on Sunday March, 2. The game will be played in Greenville at Minges Coli-
The Tar Heels started off the game hot with three runs in the first inning, however the Pirates responded by tying the game up by the fourth inning.
In an offensive battle, UNC had the hotter bat’s with two more runs scored in both the fifth and sixth innings. Even with home runs by both sophomore catcher Walker Barron and junior infielder Alex Bouche, it wasn’t enough to outscore the Tar Heels, who went on to win the game 6-11 in convincing fashion. UNC graduate student Hunter Stokely had a dominant game, going four for five with a run scored and three RBI’s.
The series finale returned to Clark-LeClair Stadium in Greenville, North Carolina, where once again the Pirates came up short. With ECU down 0-2 in the series, the home crowd was hopeful that the Pirates could steal a game from the Tar Heels. ECU started off the game strong with a run scored in the first inning thanks to an RBI by freshman infielder Austin Irby.
Despite striking first, UNC, who has done it all series long, bounced right back in the second inning with three more runs. Hunter Stokely, who had a phenomenal first two games against ECU, launched a solo home run to left field to get their scoring started. Following the solo home run, the Tar Heels
seum. ESPNU/ESPN2 will be broadcasting the game for those who can’t make it to the game.
had a couple RBI’s to make it 3-1 UNC after the second inning. With UNC scoring a couple more runs in the fourth and sixth innings, the Pirates tried to come back with runs in the third and eighth innings but ultimately couldn’t make it happen. UNC’s bullpen all throughout the series was a key factor in holding ECU to such low scoring games throughout the series. Couple with the pitching, UNC simply capitalized when they got players on base, something ECU struggled with in every game. Whenever the Pirates started to gain momentum in any of the three games, the Tar Heels quickly shut it down with either runs of their own or dominant pitching. In the series finale, ECU couldn’t make up enough ground whenever they got runners in scoring position. The Pirates have now lost four straight games. ECU entered this season with a young roster, who have been relying on mostly their pitching to win them games. With just a couple players returning this season from last year, senior outfielder Ryley Johnson’s return seem’s crucial. The Pirates faced a tough No.5 ranked veteran UNC team with a lot of experience, but the season is long and Cliff Godwin looks to right the ship against Old Dominion University (2-4, 0-0 Sun Belt Conference) before entering the LeClair Classic this weekend.
Caleb Johnson TEC STAFF
COURTESY OF ECU PIRATES
Senior guard Jordan Riley surveys the defense against Tulane University’s defense on the road.
BECCA ERZEN I THE EAST CAROLINIAN
Graudate student guard Synia Johnson
CELEBRATE ECU’S 9TH ANNUAL DAY OF GIVING IN SUPPORT OF
Graduating students can receive a Purple and Gold™ philanthropy honor cord to highlight their giving spirit! Make a gift of $20.25 at the student involvement tables or online by May 5 at www.piratealumni.com/philanthropycords25.
ENGAGE WITH GIVING
Pirate Nation Gives representatives will be at the Main Campus and the Health Sciences Campus student centers from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to promote student involvement. Students who participate in the activities will receive a FREE Chick-fil-A sandwich!
Feeling competitive? There are university-wide PNG challenges designed to give you an opportunity to show off for your gift area.
PEEDEE’S MATEYS
Find a PeeDee squishy on campus during PNG and earn funds for a program of your choice. Follow scavenger hunt clues on Instagram and Facebook (@ecuadvancement) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 5 to locate PeeDee and his pal Will.
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