TheEast
Carolinian
The founding and legacy of Pirate Club
What began as a simple vision of a few determined ECU alumni 60 years ago has grown into one of the university’s most influential and purposeful traditions keeping our athletics program afloat for generations. The Pirate Club.
In the fall of 1963, East Carolina College football coach and athletic director Clarence Stasavich, with the encouragement of university president Leo Jenkins, joined forces with two devoted alumni, Jim Chesnutt and Mike Bunting, laying the foundations for a “Booster Club” modeled after a similar program in Clemson. At the time, its mission was simple: raise money to support the football program.
“Mike Bunting, a fellow ECU graduate and one of the original board members, was a customer at my bank in Greensboro, " said Jim Chesnutt, a retired business leader, donor of ECU, and devoted alumnus. “Over time, we became good friends and, together, the two of us traveled to Greenville to meet with the university president and the football coach to discuss forming the club.”
According to Chesnutt, Bunting missed the very first game in the new stadium playing Wake Forest in 1963 but declared, after that day, he would never again miss another home game. He made true on this promise and even in his final days, Bunting’s dedication never wavered; his wife would drive him to the stadium so he could sit in the parking lot and listen to the game from afar. A belief in showing up for something larger than yourself. A true representation of the Pirate Club.
According to Chesnutt, the Pirate Club was founded as a more inclusive alternative to the university’s original Century Club, which was largely made up of Greenville’s wealthy donors. While the Century Club required a $100 yearly minimum, the Pirate Club offered membership for just $15 a year; a deliberate effort to give all alumni and fans, not just the well-off, a path to support athletics. By 1965, their vision began to take shape. In the old
Christenbury Gym, before that season’s home opener, eight young North Carolina businessmen gathered for the club’s first official meeting. They were named the inaugural directors and officers of the East Carolina College Pirates Club.
The club grew steadily, reaching about 500 members before merging with the Century Club in 1972. That merger united longtime community leaders with younger, more widespread supporters, forming the foundation of the modern Pirate Club and solidifying its role as ECU’s primary athletic fundraising organization.
“The community responded positively but slowly to our idea,” said Chesnutt. “We worked diligently, and each of the members of the board would work their own group of friends in soliciting the memberships.”
Chesnutt explained that the Pirate Club’s growth to over 15,000 members was driven by ECU fans’ deep dedication to athletics, especially football and baseball. As a contributor to the nursing and business colleges himself, he emphasized the importance of alumni giving back.
“When students leave here, I hope they carry a sense of appreciation, loyalty, and support for the university, not just by staying connected, but by giving back, whether that’s serving on boards, donating, or taking advantage of the many opportunities to stay involved after graduation,” said Chesnutt. “Just give back. Be appreciative. Love it.”
Ryan Robinson, current Pirate Club Executive Director, said the roots of the Pirate Club started when eight local community leaders, dubbed "The Untouchables" decided to make ECU Athletics a priority and their loyalty and passion became contagious.
According to Robinson, the mission of the Pirate Club hasn’t changed since. Along with providing over $7 million in scholarships, it leads fundraising efforts that support new facilities, athletic programs, and now, revenue sharing with student-athletes. Staff plays a key role in connecting with alumni, fans, and partners throughout the region and state.
“College athletics has changed dramatically over the years but giving our student-athletes the opportunity to earn a degree from ECU and leave ready to become leaders in our society has never changed,” said Robinson. “A healthy Pirate
Suspects arrested after heist
Staff Report
Update: Prosecutor Laure Beccuau said Sunday that suspects have been arrested in connection with the theft of crown jewels from Paris’ Louvre Museum, a week after the high-profile heist. One man was detained while trying to leave the country from Charles de Gaulle Airport, according to AP News. Investigators from a special police unit made the arrests Saturday evening. Beccuau did not confirm how many suspects were in custody or whether any jewels had been recovered. The thieves took less than eight minutes to steal jewels valued at about $102 million. French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez praised the investigators for working “tirelessly” on the case.
The Louvre reopened earlier this week after one of the most daring museum thefts of the century.
Thieves stole several 19th-century French crown jewels in a swift, four-minute heist in the early morning of Oct. 19.
AP News reported that four masked thieves used a construction lift to reach the Louvre Museum’s
Gallery of Apollo before smashing glass cases containing 19th-century jewels that once belonged to French royalty. The stolen items include a tiara and brooch from Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III; an emerald necklace and earrings from Empress Marie-Louise; and a sapphire tiara, necklace, and earring set linked to Queen Marie-Amélie and Queen Hortense. One crown was later found damaged near the museum.
According to officials, the jewels are valued at more than $100 million. BBC News reported that the museum’s director acknowledged security weaknesses. French Senator Natalie Goulet called the theft a “very painful” episode for France, adding that “we are all disappointed and angry” and that it is “difficult to understand how it happened so easily.”
PBS analysts said the stolen pieces could soon be altered or lost forever. French investigators are reviewing footage and interviewing staff as part of a nationwide investigation.
This writer can be contacted at news@theeastcarolinian.com.
Club allows ECU Athletics the opportunity to compete at the highest level and enables our student-athletes to have the resources needed to achieve excellence on and off the field.”
“It’s important that we stay competitive in the new collegiate athletics landscape with revenue sharing and NIL, but we will not lose sight of the student-athlete experience,” said Robinson. “Everything matters. Resources matter. Revenue share matters. Facilities matter.” According to Robinson, what makes the Pirate Club truly special is its long-standing tradition of support. Over the past 65 years, members have continually backed every major campaign that has advanced ECU Athletics. The university’s athletic facilities stand as a testament to that loyalty and commitment, reflecting the lasting impact of generations of Pirate Club members.
He shared that the Pirates Unite Campaign, launched in May 2022, raised over $43 million to fund key projects such as an indoor football practice facility, upgrades to baseball and golf facilities, and new chairback seating in Minges Coliseum. In 2022, the Pirate Club achieved record-breaking success, raising $36.7 million in new gifts and surpassing $22 million in donor investments for three consecutive years which was a historical milestone.
According to Robinson, it is a privilege to serve as Executive Director of the Pirate Club and to follow in the footsteps of the many remarkable individuals who have contributed to this distinguished organization. He shared that he never takes a day for granted working alongside a dedicated team focused on serving members and supporting student-athletes.
“Our focus will remain on our student-athletes, education, and competing at the highest level,” said Robinson. “The Pirates are a powerful brand.”
And the Pirate Club ensures that this powerful Pirate brand will continue for generations to come.
The first executive board of the Pirate Cub which is an organization that was founded to helps fund student athletes and ECU athletics among
Trisha Rangaraju TEC STAFF
Ryan Robinson
Jim Chesnutt
BRIEFS
New spaces brighten, enhance teaching resources center
East Carolina University’s Teaching Resources Center in Joyner Library has a new look after a major summer renovation. The redesign focused on easier navigation and creating a brighter, more open space for future educators. Updates include lower bookshelves, an educational technology studio, a collaboration lounge, and a colorful story time area.
Funded by donations and endowments, the upgrades reflect the TRC’s mission to support teacher education and local schools. Students and educators praised the modernized classrooms and hands-on learning tools, like robots and ViewSonic panels, which give teaching majors real-world experience.
ECU helps manufacturers prevent pollution through new grant
East Carolina University’s Center for Sustainable Energy and Environmental Engineering received a $652,000 grant from the Environmental Protection Agency to help manufacturers reduce pollution and waste. The funding builds on $1.2 million in past grants that support projects focused on improving efficiency, cutting emissions, and saving companies money.
ECU faculty, staff, and students visit factories to collect data, suggest changes, and provide pollution prevention reports. Their work promotes safer materials, better energy use, and reduced water consumption. Student workers gain hands-on experience analyzing data, writing reports, and learning how sustainable solutions benefit both the environment and businesses.
CORRECTIONS & CLARIFICATIONS
If you feel there are any factual errors in this newspaper, please contact editor@theeastcarolinian.com.
CRIME LOGS
Editor's Note: The East Carolinian Crime Logs are derived from East Carolina University Police Department’s (ECU PD) public crime logs accessible to all individuals. Crime Logs are not done within the partnership of ECU PD and The East Carolinian, as this publication is meant to act as an additional resource for Pirate Nation. Below are listings of criminal activity that has occurred on or within proximity of main campus.
Oct, 27. A suspect is being investigated on charges of second degree forcible rape at Scott Hall. The incident occurred Oct, 14. But was not reported until the 27.
Oct, 23. Someone was arrested on larceny charges at Scott Hall. The suspect reportedly stole a motorized scooter from the bike rack. This incident took place at 6:22 p.m. on Thursday.
Oct, 28.
An ECU student who was charged with ethnic intimidation last month is now being placed on probation. Ashley CorreaMartnez reportedly damaged property in the Main Campus Student Center using human waste.
Oct, 28. A Pitt County woman is in jail on arson charges. Alexsis Collins set a Maye Lane home on fire Wednesday night. She is being held without bond in Pitt County Jail.
North Carolina congressional map approved
According to NPR, North Carolina is in hot water following the approval of a new congressional map, which makes it the first state to redraw its map during this unsteady political landscape. Redrawing congressional maps has been a hot-button issue recently, as Texas redrew its map after being urged by Trump to do so, shifting five seats toward its majority Republican Congress.
This was met with California responding with a referendum on the state's ballot
in November that would shift five seats to Democrats. This had been the only action seen from the states, as some threatened to redraw before withdrawing.
A new congressional map was approved for North Carolina on Oct. 22, which means NC could gain one more republican seat. According to NPR, this decision to redraw congressional maps comes after NC announced its desire to redraw its map to win 11 of the state's 14 congressional districts.
This hit the other side of the aisle wrong, as they felt that this decision would dilute the
votes of Black voters and make it harder for them to be represented within their own state. The other side of the aisle believes that if they don't redraw, then the Democrats will have a chance to “torpedo” Trump's agenda.
The redrawing of congressional maps isn't a new phenomenon. It's a practice typically done once every ten years. It’s not a new thing for North Carolina either, as they have redrawn their maps multiple times.
ECU alum appointed new fire and rescue chief
East Carolina University alum Jeremy Anderson has been appointed the new Chief of Fire and Rescue at the Greenville Fire Department. He was sworn in on Oct. 20.
Anderson already has plans for how the fire department will operate under his leadership.
“We want to bring back teamwork and collaboration between the city and community partners,” he said. “The city’s growing rapidly, and we need to learn how to enhance what we have.”
Anderson spoke of his intention to pursue certification from the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services. This will make Greenville one of the 20 nationwide departments with this status. The Greenville Fire Department is currently the only fire department in North Carolina rated the highest of Class 1.
The Commission also accredits the fire department on Fire Accreditation International.
The fire department will roll out a new work schedule in March 2026. It will use the 24-72 schedule rather than the 24-48 schedule. This schedule will add a fourth shift and give workers more breaks, allowing
them to maintain a healthier worklife balance. Greenville will be the first municipal fire department in the state to offer this schedule.
“We average about 72 to 75 calls a day in the city alone,” Anderson said. “Each of those shifts has about 45 employees, so we’re always actively hiring.”
Anderson’s career as a firefighter started with volunteer work in 1995. He joined the Fire Rescue team in February 2006. He was promoted to Fire Captain in February 2018 and held the position for one year before becoming the Battalion Chief in October 2019.
He received a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from ECU in 2001 and wrote for The East Carolinian as a sports reporter during his freshman year in fall 1997. He reflected positively on his time here.
“Being at ECU can really help you understand where you come from and where other people come from,” he said. “My time there gave me a new perspective of what it’s like to interact with fire. It really helps you to grow,” he continued.
Center from 10 AM to 1 PM each day.
Food for Fines is an initiative allowing East Carolina University students to donate canned food in exchange for removing parking violation tickets. It took place in the Main Campus Student Center from Oct. 20 to Oct. 24. The food donated goes to the Williams Ross Purple Pantry.
“What happens is [that] students are able to donate certain food items to eliminate parking tickets on their account,” Student Body President Daniel Walker said. “So, what this does is it allows us to donate quite a bit to food-insecure students and also help with students that are registering for classes, making sure they don't have holds because of those tickets as well.”
This initiative, occurring close to registration, allows students to resolve any holds or issues they have with their accounts before registering for classes. Food for Fines will occur from March 16 to March 20 during the spring semester. During that week, students can participate in this initiative by stopping by the table in the Main Campus Student
Food for Fines began last year under the leadership of Anderson Ward and Ava Barefoot, the previous Student Government president and vice president.
“So, we noticed that a big thing that was holding students back in the registration portion of getting into classes was parking tickets, actually. It's really easy to get a parking ticket on campus,” Walker said. “So we wanted to make sure that there was an easy way for students to get out of some of those tickets.”
This initiative covers simple parking violations, but not violations for parking in a handicapped spot. ECU is the first school in the state to do this and has recently partnered with other universities, such as North Carolina State University and Appalachian State, to implement similar programs on their campuses.
Last year, over $1,500 in parking tickets were expelled, and over 600 pounds of food were donated.
“This is a really great time to work with the
Purple Pantry, because they're usually running a little bit lower on supplies going into the winter,” Walker said.
This endeavor involves the Student Government Association, the Center for Leadership and Civic Engagement, the Williams Ross Purple Pantry, and the parking and transportation department.
There was a lot of participation and even donations this semester. Walker encourages students to participate in food for fines when it is available.
“You're helping out other pirates in need, which is always a really good thing that we can support,” Walker said. “So you know, I think students should be involved because, first of all, it's a really great way to get things marked off your account that you don't need, it can improve being able to register for the class that you need in a timely manner, and [it] also helps out your fellow community.”
COURTESY
COURTESY OF JEREMY ANDERSON
ECU alum Jeremy Anderson has been named Greenville's new fire chief
Staff Report
Madison Lanier TEC STAFF
Arts & Entertainment
TODAY
Trunk or Treat Greenville Nissan, 991 Greenville Blvd SW, Greenville, NC 27834
6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
252-756-1738
TOMORROW
Halloween Costume Karaoke Party and Contest
The Doghouse Tavern, 506 2nd Street, Ayden, NC 28513
8:30 PM to 11:00 PM 252-304-2291
Halloween Game Night & Costume Contest
Pitt Street Brewing Company, 630 S Pitt St., Greenville, NC 27834
4:00 PM to 10:00 PM 252-227-4151
Masquerade Ball Black Rose Bottling Co., 901 Dickinson Ave, Greenville, NC 27834
8:00 PM to 11:30 PM 252-751-6255
Safe Night Out Halloween Carnival
Ayden Police Dept, 4144 West Avenue, Ayden, NC 28513
6:00 PM to 7:30 PM 252-481-5844
SATURDAY
Halloweentown Market
Leroy James Farmers Market of Pitt County, 4560 County Home Road, Greenville, NC 27858
8:00 AM to 12:00 PM 252-714-8198
Thanksgiving Holiday Market
Eastern Carolina Village and Farm Museum, 4570 County Home Road, Greenville, NC 27858
9:00 AM to 1:00 PM 252-531-2771
Paint & Play With Baby Kangaroos! Wine and Design 808 Dickinson Ave, Greenville, NC 27858
10:00 AM to 2:30 PM 252-321-1200
SUNDAY
Christmas Wreath Class Coopers Cup, 2588 Railroad Street, Winterville, NC 28590
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM 252-754-5033
Pirates Hit the Jackpot for homecoming
Kibryella Hawkins TEC STAFF
With Homecoming Week around the corner, excitement is building across East Carolina University, and campus is buzzing as student clubs and organizations prepare to bring their Pirate pride to life under this year’s theme “Pirates Hit the Jackpot.”
Encouraging students to “always bet on purple,” the theme blends the thrill of Las Vegas and the deep-rooted spirit of ECU. From banners and skits to floats and parades, the week promises to be a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and all things Pirate.
The week kicks off Monday, Nov. 3, with the banner competition, held all day in the Main Campus Student Center Commons, according to the homecoming website. Clubs and organizations create banners that showcase their Pirate pride. Completed banners will hang in the Student Center Commons throughout
homecoming week for students to view. Clubs are putting in extra effort to prepare for the festivities. “This year we’re doing it with Pi Lambda Phi, so we have been preparing a little differently,” said Kayla Patel, the president of the soccer club. “For skit we’ve been practicing two to three times a week, banner. We have kind of been working on it for a couple of weeks.” she said, adding that Pi Lambda is preparing their float.
One of the most anticipated events of the week, the skit competition, makes a return this year, Wednesday, Nov. 5, at 7 p.m. in Minges Coliseum, gives student organizations a chance to shine on stage and show off a different side of their Pirate pride. “Skit is always a great time, something I recommend for everyone to do at least once in their time at ECU,” said Jackson Smith,Pi Lambda Phi’s social chair.
For their skit they’ve stuck closely to the “Jackpot” theme with a musical line up that includes Thrift Shop by Macklemore & Ryan
Lewis and Rich Girl by Gwen Stefani. “Dont see how we couldn’t win,” Smith said, “Skit is easily the most exciting competition out of the four.” In addition to banners and skits, organizations will also participate in the float competition that will take place Saturday, Nov. 8, starting at 9 a.m. Floats can be seen during the annual homecoming parade. Student-made floats will travel along Fifth Street from Hilltop Street to Reade Street.“For float design we definitely want to show Pirate pride as much as we can while incorporating the Vegas/casino theme with lights, boards, etc.,” Smith said. As homecoming week approaches, ECU’s campus is filled with purple and gold, students are eager to show their spirit and creativity during this year’s homecoming events. Students are ready to bet big on one thing: their Pirate pride.
Connor Pellicie taking the stage by storm
Ahmed
TEC STAFF
East Carolina University student Connor
Pellicie, a senior majoring in music therapy and minoring in psychology, is taking the stage this weekend at Fletcher Music Center for his senior tuba recital, closing the decade-long chapter of musical growth, while opening a new one to use his talent to help others.
Pellicie has been playing the tuba for ten years, a journey that began in middle school when his band director encouraged him to switch from trombone. “I fell in love with the deep, low sound of the instrument and kept playing it,” Pellicie said.
Under the guidance of Dr. Jarrod Williams for his first three years at ECU and Professor Scott Sutherland during his senior year, Pellicie said his instructors have helped shape not only his technical skill, but also his musical identity. “They’ve both been incredible mentors,” Pellicie said. “Professor Sutherland has really helped me iron out the finer details and make my tuba playing even better.”
Although Pellicie’s recital will incorporate a diverse selection of pieces, Journey for Tuba by Brian Sadler is the piece that resonates with Pellicie the most. “The piece has three movements: a powerful beginning, a haunting middle, and a triumphant finale,” he explained.
He relates his musical experience at ECU to
this piece, having faced challenges and setbacks, but overcoming them with strength and power. Performing this piece felt like a reflection of his growth both on and off the stage. “You just keep going through the highs and lows and try to end strong,” he said.
Beyond the music, Pellicie said preparing for the recital has been a mental process along with a musical one. “I’ve been practicing slowly, repeating parts, and taking advice from others,” he said. “It’s hard sometimes to hear the positives when you’re so focused on the negatives, so having someone else to give you honest feedback really helps.”
Pellicie reminisces about moments in the practice rooms, his friends being his biggest
supporters and strongest companions. His time at ECU has been filled with memories that shaped his identity as a musician, but one memory stands above the rest: performing as a Marching Pirate his freshman year. “Stepping onto that field for the first time was surreal,” Pellicie said, “That moment will forever live in my mind.”
For Pellicie, the upcoming performance is both a finale and an opening. “It marks the end of years of hard work and the start of my professional life; it feels like a midpoint between finishing college and stepping into the real world doing something I love,” he said.
After graduation, Pellicie said his passion lies in music therapy and plans to pursue board certification in music therapy (MT-BC), hoping to work in rehabilitation or with older adult populations. “Music therapy combines my two biggest interests, music and psychology, and I know I’ve chosen the right path.”
“Public performance is always stressful, but I can’t wait to share these pieces with my friends, family, and everyone at ECU,” Pellicie said. As the performance inches closer, Pellicie admits to feeling both nervous and excited. He is determined to put on a passionate performance and make his audience proud.
This writer can be contacted at arts@theeastcarolinian.com.
Halloween Safety Fair brings valuable lessons for ECU students
Candon Johnson TEC STAFF
Halloween is a very popular holiday, especially at East Carolina University with costumes, parties and festive events that students love. Fun during this Halloween season is important, but so is safety, so ECU has planned a Halloween Safety Resource Fair. It will take place Oct. 28 from 1-3 p.m. at the Main Campus Student Center Lawn and will offer snacks and treats as well as activities for students to engage in.
Event manager, Jordan Henry, said the resource fair is an interactive event that is aimed to promote student safety during the Halloween weekend. “By engaging students in a hands-on and informative environment, the fair seeks to equip them with the knowledge they need to celebrate responsibly while prioritizing their well-being throughout the holiday season,” Henry said.
The safety information given will include things such as: responsible alcohol consumption, consent, safe sexual practices, and safety precautions. The Resource Fair is more
than an educational event though, its goal is to be both enjoyable and interactive for students. “Its a fun, engaging, and supportive space designed to help students enjoy the Halloween season responsibly and confidently,” said Henry.
This is extremely important because according to an article done by Mount St. Joseph University, violent crimes increase by 50% on Halloween. This raises concern, because in the same article it’s stated CPI, a security company which specializes in cameras and alarm systems, that their Central Station sees a 21% increase in break-ins over the entire month of October.
To Henry, the past three years have seen this event grow in popularity, and have seen more students engaged. “Many participants highlighted that the event was both enjoyable and educational, offering a mix of entertainment and valuable safety information,” Jordan Henry said. “The event was viewed as a fun way to learn about important topics like personal safety, responsible drinking, and Halloween-specific risks.”
Opinion
OUR VIEW
“No Kings” protests are important for democracy
We, the editorial staff of The East Carolinian, believe that protests like “No Kings” are essential for preserving our democracy. Protests are important for a democracy because they ensure citizens can be heard. A democracy is meant to be for the people and to listen to the will of the people. People are angry when protests happen, and this fury must be taken seriously. Labeling protests as “anti-American” is very dangerous because it sets a bad precedent and because there is nothing more American than exercising your First Amendment right and peacefully protesting. Two weeks ago, the “No Kings” protests were peaceful and full of love for their fellow people and the country, which was meant to help us up, not impede us. Saying that the “No Kings” protesters are dangerous is laughable. People dressing up in silly costumes to protest something that they do not like is what America is about. If we lose sight of protests being critical to our democracy, then we are nothing more than an authoritarian state where speaking up for what you deem as not right can be dangerous.
The staff of The East Carolinian truly believes that protests are important. Protests can bring people together in the face of adversity. Protests have worked multiple times in the past, showing that when the country is unified in a common goal, nobody can stop it. Saying “No Kings” means that America is fed up with what is happening and will not stand idly by and do nothing about it.
PIRATE RANTS
Rants.
As soon as this town finishes a construction project another one starts it is the most frustrating thing ever
The fletcher hall bathrooms are absolutely disgusting people need to learn how to clean up after them selves
Every time I go downtown I am automatically sick the following week people need to be cleaner and take better care of themselves this is ridiculous
I appreciate what ECU is doing with their halloween events but they should just expect that everyone will be partying
I swear to god if i see anyone else dressed up as a cop or a prisoner this year im going to lose my mind
Why is truck culture so prevalent here every day on my walk to class someone drives passed me with their straight piped truck and scares the crap out of me
Its been so long since we had and ECU football home game the schedule makers need to be better
Why does ECU not have a men’s soccer team so many people would go to the games
Last week, construction began on the new ballroom in the White House, the entire East Wing of the building is being demolished. The $250 million project was announced earlier this year on July, 31.
The ball room is set to be 90,000 square feet and will fit 999 people. The East Wing is known to be the social side of the White House building. It is also home to the First Lady and her staff.
Prior to the demolition, the East Wing fit around 200 people and was the largest room in the building. This was not enough for Trump, he frowned upon the idea of past presidents hosting larger scale events on the South Lawn in tents and wanted something that better accommodate his needs.
On social media, Trump said that these renovations would not cost the American tax payer a dime. He said it will be privately funded by “many generous patriots, Great American Companies, and yours truly.”
While there is not much information out regarding the break downs of the funds. We do know that around 22 of the $250 million is coming from Trump’s lawsuit settlement with YouTube from 2021.
The White House hopes to have the project completed by January 2029. There was not a sign off from the National Capital Planning Commission on the project.
This is not the first time the White House has been renovated since it was built but it is one of the more large-scale projects.
Many are concerned with the price and where the money could be going instead of going to a 90,000 square foot ballroom, and I would have to agree. Regardless of the fact that the project is privately funded, it begs the question, why is this important to get done now.
Along with the previous question, we also have to ask why are these “patriots” and “Great American Companies” not donating this money to something that more directly benefits the general public?
In my opinion, this could be something to distract the American public from what is going on behind the scenes. With everything that has been going on over the past year. It would not be surprising if this was an attempt from the White House to anger a certain party in efforts to bury things like Charlie Kirk’s assasination, The Epstein Files, and the No Kings Protests.
Once things like these are not talked about anymore they almost tend to disappear. In this day in age, the average person is always looking for what’s next and what is new not only in life but also the media. With that being said this is something that people
are genuinely upset over and are choosing to talk about so in hand the other pressing topics lose traction.
The idea that this large sum of money is being donated for a building is infuriating to many and I would have to agree. When we look around there are so many other pressing issues that need to be solved and they are not because of a lack of funding. With the proper funding many of these issues could be handled properly.
As of 2024, Forbes Magazine reported that there are 814 billionaires in the United States. Imagine the amount of good that could be done if each billionaire donated just a small portion of their fortune.
I believe that it is time for us as a country to decide what is truly important. What is truly worth putting our time, energy, and resources into. These renovations are another example of an instance that is pushing these conversations to the forefront not only in the media but in households.
Donald Trump appears to have finally fallen out of love with Vladimir Putin, which is good news, long time coming.
If you cut through all of the back-andforth over the past week regarding the war in Ukraine, the central issue remains the same. And unresolved.
Putin invaded a sovereign nation. That country fought back harder than the Russian dictator predicted, resulting in a quagmire that over time has weakened Putin. That weakness, as finally perceived by an American president who admires only strength, explains the current Trumpian disaffection better than what actually should have caused Trump never to fall in love in the first place: Putin’s desire to re-create as much as possible of the Soviet Union, whatever the cost both to democracy and to human life, both Ukrainian and Russian.
Still, Trump knows how to exploit weakness better than most. So if the breakup is serious, let’s hope he finally gets behind Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who wryly observed this week that Putin wants the total occupation of Ukraine, which is exactly what he wanted when the Russian tanks rolled into Ukraine in February 2022 as part of what Putin said at the time was a “special military operation.”
Putin is not about to want something different; the question for this U.S. administration is when and how he is going to be convinced that Trump will prevent him from getting it. Zelenskyy, who has greatly improved his Trump-flattering skills in recent days, clearly sees the opportunity, comparing Putin’s weakness to that of Hamas in a part of the world where Trump was able to broker at least a tentative peace. Trump likes to see himself as peace-deal-maker not just par excellence but on a global roll, and the more Zelenskyy can play into that, the better for
Ukraine. If we were Zelenskyy advisers able to whisper in Trump’s ear, we would just keep repeating, “Putin is weak. Putin is weak. Putin is weak,” until we saw the cogs finally start to move.
It might take a while; Trump has been convinced for so many years of the personal utility of the man’s strength. But convincing him otherwise still is the Lord’s work. Oil sanctions are a good idea, long time coming. So is talking about sending Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine. Former Chicago mayor and ambassador Rahm Emanuel made the point to us the other day that the Gaza ceasefire came about in no small measure because both ordinary Israeli and Palestinian people, weary of war, pressured leaders to make a deal those leaders did not really want to make. To what degree Putin is open to such domestic pressure is debatable, but it is worth the effort. Oil sanctions will hit Russia’s economy, big time.
Reasonable people know, and we think Zelenskyy now understands, that long wars typically don’t end with one side getting everything and, as the European nations generally have agreed, the right starting point for negotiations is the situation on the ground now in terms of who controls what. A starting point, which means nothing beyond and certainly less. But the main thing is that Putin has to stand up and acknowledge Ukraine’s right to exist in peace.
On Thursday, Putin told reporters that “no self-respecting country ever does anything under pressure.”
What weak rhetoric. Ratcheting up the pressure on the pathetic Putin will be the only way this war ends.
The East Carolinian does not endorse the
Classifieds & Puzzles
by Jacqueline E. Mathews
Created by Jacqueline E. Mathews
The East Carolinian Sports experts predict this week’s events
Caleb Johnson TEC Sports Reporter
ECU VS. ASU
Score Prediction?
ECU 28-24
Why?
Temple has shocked many this season with their offensive production but I still got the Pirates. ECU is coming off a bye week and one of their most complete offensive performances. I fully expect the ECU defense to bounce back as well after a sligtly disappointing performance against Tulsa.
Cannon Gates WZMB Station Manager
ECU VS. ASU Score Prediction?
ECU 31-20
Why?
This Temple team has exceeded expectations in Keeler’s first year, and are going to be a tough out no matter who they play but they are not getting past the Pirates. Katin Houser is going to out-deal Evan Simon and show everybody why he’s a top QB in the AAC.
Nick Green WZMB Sports & News Director
ECU VS. ASU Score Prediction?
ECU 35-28
Why?
Temple is a very solid team and I expect them to put up a fight against us, however, Temple’s defense is very susceptible to giving up points. As long as we can take care of the football, I trust our defense to make enough plays to win the game. Give me the Pirates to take this one on the road.
Pirates basketball returns to action
The East Carolina University men’s basketball team kicks off the 2025-26 season on Nov. 4 at home in Minges-Coliseum against Georgia Southern University (0-0, 0-0 Sun Belt Conference). Head coach Michael Schwartz returns for another year leading the Pirates as they’ve been preparing for the season since their first official practice on Sept. 23.
Last season the Pirates posted a 19-14 overall record and went 10-8 in the American Athletic Conference play, finishing sixth in the conference. Although the Pirates did not earn a postseason appearance, they did improve from the 2023-24 season where they went 15-18 and 7-11 in conference play.
Led by second-year head coach Charlie Henry,The Georgia Southern Eagles closed
their 2024-25 campaign at 17-16 overall and 8-10 in Sun Belt Conference play. Last season, Georgia Southern averaged 74.2 points per game while allowing 75.9, finishing in eighth place in their conference.
The nonconference schedule also includes a matchup against Michigan State University of the Big Ten Conference on Nov. 25 in Fort Myers, Florida, and a road game at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill on Dec. 22. Those games give ECU a chance to see where it stands early in the season before conference play begins.
ECU brings back several key players from last season while adding new faces through transfers and recruiting. Senior forward Jordan Riley is one of the top returning scorers, and transfer senior center Giovanni Emejuru joins the team after playing at George Mason. The Pirates will look to fill spots in the
guard rotation after some players graduated or transferred out.
The American Athletic Conference schedule will again feature tough competition, with teams like the University of Memphis (0-0, 0-0 AAC), University of South Florida (0-0, 0-0 AAC) and Tulane University (0-0, 0-0 AAC) expected to be near the top. Last season, ECU finished sixth in the AAC standings and showed signs of growth under Schwartz, looking to improve upon last season. The Pirates will look to build early-season chemistry during nonconference play before turning their attention to the AAC. The game against Georgia Southern tips off at 7 p.m. and will be broadcasted on ESPN+ for fans unable to attend the game.
Pirate Volleyball to take on Rice in Minges
Josiah Cobb TEC STAFF
East Carolina University volleyball (1110, 3-7 American Conference) raises the anchor, returning to Minges Coliseum on Oct. 31 at 6 p.m. Looking across the water sits the Rice University Owls who are sitting with an overall record of 13-8 and an American conference record of 9-1. The Pirates look to strike down the Owls nine game win streak and send them back home to Houston, T.X. with a loss.
The Pirates have shown flashes of potential throughout the season but have struggled to find consistency in league play. ECU have lost four out of their last five outings, looking to right the ship against the conference leading Owls. So far this season, ECU is led by strong play from freshman outside hitter Sydney Buchanan with 198 kills, sophomore setter Taryn Gilreath with 640 assists, and Senior middle blocker Carlia Northcross with 25 service aces.
With six matches left in the regular season, ECU will be aiming to close out October strong before making a final push
in November. Historically, the matchup has been one-sided. Rice has controlled the series,
COURTESY OF ECU ATHLETICS
Pirate Volleyball players celebrate In Minges
winning the last 10 meetings between the programs. For East Carolina, the match provides a chance to snap that streak and secure its first win over the Owls in more than a decade.
The East Carolina University football team (4-3, 2-1 American Athletic Conference) matches up against the Temple University Owls (5-3, 3-1 AAC) as both teams will try to stay in the hunt for a conference title. Following a bye week, the Pirates will be well rested as they play their first day-time game of the season. This is also the first Saturday game ECU will be playing in since September 20th, in a loss against Brigham Young University (8-0, 5-0 Big 12 Conference).
The Temple Owls are coming off a 38-37 overtime road victory against Tulsa University (2-6, 0-5 AAC), where red-shirt senior quarterback Evan Simon flourished. The senior threw for 267 yards and five touchdowns to lead his squad to the overtime victory. He will be the number one threat on offense, as he can beat a team with both his arm and his legs. He is currently tied for fourth in passing touchdowns in the country and has zero interceptions, which will make it difficult for the Pirates defense to get stops.
The Pirates are currently sitting as four-and-ahalf point favorites and ESPN’s matchup predictor gives them a 72.3% chance to win. The Pirates will offensively lean heavily on the run game often as Temple ranks 31st in the country in pass defense and 103rd in run defense. ECU’s offense is coming into the game ranked 24th overall in the nation with the 15th best passing offense and 61st best run offense. Expect lots of running early in the game to set up
Bringing the energy to the team has been junior libero Elle Jackson, who had a season high 19 digs against Florida Atlantic University (16-1, 7-3 American Conference).The Pirates come into this game coming of a loss to The University of South Florida Bulls (13-8 overall,9-1 conference) in 3 sets.
The Owls have lived up to their preseason expectations after being picked to win the American in the conference’s coaches poll earlier this year. Rice enters the matchup looking to add to their nine-game win streak, led by junior setter Kaia Mateo, who has totaled 414 assists and was recently named the American Athletic Conference Setter of the Week. Senior outside hitter Taylor Preston has also been a key part of Rice’s success this season, recording 315 kills. First serve between East Carolina and Rice is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Friday at Minges Coliseum. The match will be streamed live on ESPN+ as both programs look to strengthen their position heading into the final month of conference play.
This writer can be contacted at sports@theeastcarolinian.com.
senior quarterback Katin Houser to take shots down the field when the opportunity comes.
An interesting thing to look out for is Temple’s home stadium. The Owls play at Lincoln Financial Field, home of the Philadelphia Eagles which will be an adjustment for the Pirates playing at an NFL stadium. The stadium doesn’t fill up for Temple games which the Owls are adjusted to, whereas the Pirates are used to a mostly filled stadium.
Both teams currently sit in the middle of the pack in the American Conference standings so a win for either team would be a massive boost towards making the conference title game. There are currently seven teams boasting a winning record in the conference, including the Pirates and Owls with only the United States Naval Academy (Navy, 7-0, 5-0 AAC) separating themselves from the pack. Tulane University (6-1, 3-0 AAC) is the only other unbeaten team in the conference. Whoever loses this game may be eliminated from conference title contention, so both teams will be looking to come out on top. Kickoff is set for Saturday at 2:00 p.m. in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Kickoff is set for Saturday at 2:00 p.m. in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The game will be streamed on ESPN+ and live
Game.
Garett Skillman THE EAST CAROLINIAN
COURTESY OF ECU ATHLETICS
Picured is the brand new mens basketball court inside Williams Arena at Minges Coliseum with the “Pirates” scrpit logo displayed at halfcourt
Pirates Sophmore Quarterback Katin Houser running with the football against Tulsa
Tyler Buonocore TEC STAFF