2025_Aug25_TEC

To kick off the new school year, East Carolina University held its 24th annual Pirate Palooza on August 23, at 6 p.m. Students enjoyed a plethora of activities, including airbrush t-shirts, an inflatable slide, custom street signs, and more.

Pirate Palooza began in 2001 as a way to welcome students, both new and returning, to the upcoming academic year. It is a series of back-to-school events, which include Raid the Rec on Friday the 28th and the New Student Welcome on Sunday the 31st.

Hank Bowen, senior associate director of the Department of Student Engagement, said that these events serve as an opportunity for students to connect with campus life. “It gives students a chance to get out of their rooms, meet people, and

feel like they belong at ECU,” said Bowen.

Students waited in lines across the Lawn, the outdoor space in front of the Main Student Center, for their chance to partake in the activities. While some veered to the artistic section offering caricature drawings and custom tie-dye shirts, others braved the athletic based activities such as the wall climbing challenge.

To provide relief from the summer heat, ECU had Pelican’s SnoBalls serving shaved ice. Furthermore, activities continued inside the Main Campus Student Center with videos using a 360-degree photo booth, and booths representing Koinonia Christian Center and The Bower Student Living.

Bowen encouraged students to get engaged with campus life through other activities. “I don’t think there’s a lack of things to do, both on campus and in our community,” Bowen said, “When you see something interesting, go try it out,” he continued.

Hosting these back-to-school events can be a challenge due to the age of social media. Universities continuously compete for viral moments and high student engagement by holding large concerts and festivals. However, this doesn’t discourage event organizers at ECU. “At ECU, we try to balance it so there’s always something fun going on throughout the year,” said Bowen.

Competition with other schools wasn’t the only challenge Pirate Palooza faced, Bowen remarked. Hurricane Erin flooded parts of Eastern North Carolina as a Category 2 storm, thus creating uncertainty about the event's location on the Lawn. Fortunately, the event continued as planned.

To stay updated about current and future activities, students can check out ECU’s Pirate Experience website.

East Carolina students began moving in on Wednesday, August 20, through Friday, August 23.

This year, many student organizations helped out with moving in this year’s Pirates. Honors College students, sport teams, and Greek organizations volunteered for the move in.

“Move in went pretty smoothly,” resident assistant Riley Lallathin said. “We had a lot of collaboration from campus organizations, which expedited every part of the process.”

Having students on campus to help with moving in, not only sped up the process, but it also gave students an opportunity to interact with each other.

“This was the first year we had help from Greek life and

some other student organizations, and that was seriously the biggest help of them all,” Lallathin said. “I appreciated every single student and community volunteer that came through our doors.”

This was Lallathin’s first time helping with moving in, as she was a freshman herself last year. As a resident assistant , she helped move things out of cars and assisted with check in at Minges Coliseum.

“The fastest way to get everything done was to move everything onto the green carts immediately out of the car, then put it in a grey bin at the end of the hall,” Lallathin said. “That helped everyone get out of the car line, as well as helping clear up the line, and not crowd the grey bins.”

Lallathin has enjoyed being a resident assistant this year.

“I have loved it so far and I get more excited to work with my staff every day,” Lallathin said.

Riley Anderson, member of one of ECU’s Greek organizations, also helped with the move this year. She volunteered to assist first year students who were moving into the dorms.

“It was an amazing opportunity to connect with incoming freshmen and their families during such an exciting beginning of a new chapter,” Anderson said.

With classes starting on Monday, August 25, students had a few days to adjust to campus living before the first day.

BRIEFS

New Department of Earth, Environment and Planning prioritizes environment, communities

East Carolina University has merged the Department of Geography, Planning and Environment with the Department of Geological Sciences to create the Department of Earth, Environment and Planning. The change is designed to strengthen collaboration, research and career readiness.

Dr. Jeff Popke, professor and former chair of geography, planning and environment, will serve as the chair. The department now offers six undergraduate and three graduate programs, plus several minors and certificates.

Student success initiatives grow with strategic support in FY 2025

East Carolina University received nearly $74.4 million in philanthropic support during the 2024-25 fiscal year, with donors backing scholarships, research and athletics. Of the total, $29.1 million supported main campus priorities, $22 million went to athletics and $23.2 million funded health sciences through the ECU Health Foundation.

Over $14.6 million was given for new and existing scholarships, like the inaugural Chancellor’s Scholars Initiative, which awarded 76 renewable scholarships to incoming freshmen. Major gifts included $3.2 million from the Aman family for the College of Business, $2 million from the Taylors for Joyner Library and $2 million from the Bedford Falls Foundation for a medic-to-nurse pathway in the College of Nursing. Donations have also helped launch the Isley Indoor Performance Center.

CORRECTIONS

& CLARIFICATIONS

If you feel there are any factual errors in this newspaper, please contact editor@theeastcarolinian.com.

Therapy Clinic Blends Care and Education

East Carolina University’s Family Therapy Clinic is well-known for being more than just a counseling center– but for its combination of both patient care and academic training. While providing excellent sessions for families and individuals all across Pitt County, they also prepare their future family therapists.

The staff includes ECU graduates with their Ph.D. 's and masters who work alongside experienced therapists who are recognized in family and medical family therapy. This allows clients to have credible, and affordable, care while their students get hands-on experience in the field.

According to the College of Health and Human Performance website, new clients are expected to attend a two hour consultation

for a fee of $20. The clinic will gather information about the clients history, and their needs and goals, all while learning about what to expect at the clinic. After the consultation, the clinic will then pair the client with the correct student therapist who suits them the best.

Therapy sessions can be done both in person and online, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Fees vary based on how much the household makes and the size of the family, but they typically start below the standard $100 rate.

The unique part about ECU’s family therapy clinic is that everyone works as a “team”. With the client's permission, a faculty supervisor can overlook therapy sessions and provide feedback in real-time. According to the website, clients have mentioned how this approach can be nerveracking in the begin-

ning but turns out to be very fun for them.

Beyond the clinic, the community can also support the clinic by donating to the Hannah Bailey and Jackie Mastromauro Memorial Fund. The funds that go to this foundation help support the cost of therapy for students in crisis, as well as supporting therapy for community members.

For Greenville and the rest of Pitt County, ECU’s Family Therapy Clinic is a standing ground for both care and education–teaching our next generation of therapists while promoting mental health care for those in need.

This writer can be contacted at news@theeastcarolinian.com.

ECU Board of Trustees approves new contract

Dakota Hamm TEC STAFF

According to The Daily Reflector, East Carolina University’s Board of Trustees has approved a $13 million contract to lease its North Recreational Complex to Greenville for the development of a city-run sports complex.

The trustees signed off on the contract on Aug.11. City spokesman Brock Letchworth said the Greenville City Council will hold a vote on Sept. 8. The contract also has to be approved by the UNC Board of Governors, Letchworth said.

Stephanie Coleman, Vice Chancellor of Administration and Finance, told The Daily Reflector that according to the contract, Greenville must pay ECU a total of $13 million over the leasing period, starting with a payment of $3 million and a payment of $300,000 for the first-year rent. The rest of the leasing period will consist of payments ranging from $150,000 to $300,000, said Coleman. ECU is planning to bring many of its intramural sports programs to the complex, and allow competitions to be held in the venue. This new and upcoming complex is sure to benefit intramural sports, as well as offer new opportunities for them to expand their programs.

This writer can be contacted at news@theeastcarolinian.com.

East Carolina University football 2025 season breakdown

The 2025 football season kicks off against rival North Carolina State University (Atlantic Coastal Conference) as the Pirates look to reestablish themselves as a contender in the American Conference this year. Last fall, ECU had an up-and-down campaign that was marked by inconsistent quarterback play and struggles along the offensive line. The Pirates ultimately found their footing at the back end of the season when Blake Harrell took over mid-season as Head Coach, and when they closed the season out with a win over NC State in the military bowl.

Week 1 – Aug 28 at North Carolina State University

The Pirates waste no time diving into a hostile environment, opening at Carter-Finley Stadium in Raleigh, N.C. against North Carolina State University. Head Coach Blake Harrell’s defense, led by Junior linebacker Dameon Wilson and Senior Jackson Barker, will be tested early against the Wolfpack’s physical run game. ECU’s quarterback room, featuring Sophomore quarterback Katin Houser and Junior quarterback Raheim Jeter, will need to establish rhythm behind an offensive line anchored by Senior Jayson Tarpeh and Junior Leivi Semaia.

Week 2 – Sep 6 vs Campbell University

The home opener at Dowdy-Ficklen should give ECU a chance to flex depth. Senior running back Marlon Gunn Jr. and Junior running back Parker Jenkins will get plenty of work behind this offensive line, and fans will hope to see early connections between Houser and his receivers, particularly Sophomore receiver Yannick Smith and Senior receiver Kelan Robinson. On defense, look for defensive coordinator Josh Aldridge’s defense to pressure Campbell’s quarterback with edge rushers Senior Ryheem Craig and Senior Jasiyah Robinson.

Week 3 – Sep 13 at Coastal Carolina University

This trip to Coastal is one of the Pirates

toughest nonconference battles. Coastal is known for its uptempo offense, and ECU’s secondary, with veteran graduate student Teagan Wilk and Senior TyMir Brown will need to be sharp. On offense, Houser’s ability to spread the ball to playmakers could decide whether ECU can keep pace in what might be a high-scoring affair. The defense’s ability to contain explosive plays will be the difference.

Week 4 – Sep 20 vs Brigham Young University

This road trip will be a true test of where ECU stands. Tulane’s defensive front will challenge ECU’s offensive line, while the Pirates secondary, led by veterans like Senior defensive back Jonathan Jean will have to slow a balanced passing attack. One of the keys to winning will be whether Houser can stay poised in a tough road environment and whether the Pirates can force turnovers to swing momentum.

Week 7 – Oct 16 vs The University of Tulsa

Coming from a tough Big 12 Conference, BYU’s visit to Greenville is a marquee matchup for ECU. The Cougars bring size and power, especially in the trenches, which means Senior defensive lineman Xavier McIver and Senior defensive lineman Zion Wilson will be critical inside on the defensive line. ECU’s run game, led by Senior running back Marlon Gunn and Sophomore running back London Montgomery, has to succeed early to prevent Houser from facing constant pressure to air the ball out down the field. Special teams, with Senior veteran kicker Andrew Conrad, could play a big role in what may be a physical, low-possession game.

Week 5 – Sep 25 vs Army University

This Thursday night home game presents an important chance for ECU to gain ground in conference play. Tulsa doesn’t have Tulane’s depth, but the Golden Hurricane always play scrappy. Look for Harrell’s defense to unleash edge pressure, with Craig and Senior Samuel Dankah keying the pass rush. Offensively, expect ECU to lean on its run game and play-action passing, especially to big targets like Yannick Smith downfield.

Week 8 – Nov 1 at Temple University

Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, P.A. has not always been kind to ECU, but this is a winnable road test. This game could allow younger skill players like Sophomore running back TJ Engleman Jr. or Freshman wide receiver Johnny Williams to emerge, especially if the Pirates get out to an early lead.

Week 9 – Nov 8 vs University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Preparing for Army's unique style and triple-option is never easy, Defensive Coordinator Josh Aldridge’s linebacker group needs to make big plays if they want a chance at stopping the run game. Offensively, ECU will need to maximize possessions, relying on its tight ends to keep drives alive on third down. After last year’s outing against Army where the Pirates fell 28-45, ECU will need to figure out how to stop the run game.

Week 6 – Oct 9 at Tulane University

The Pirates host Charlotte in a matchup that has grown into a bit of a regional rivalry. Expect gritty play in Greenville as ECU looks to control tempo with its running backs while stretching the field with receivers like Graduate Student Anthony Smith and Junior Jaquaize Pettaway. On defense, stopping Charlotte’s short passing game will be key. The atmosphere should give ECU a strong home-field edge.

Opinion

OUR VIEW

Welcome home Pirates! We, the editorial staff at The East Carolinian, hope you had a wonderful summer and are ready to set sail into the new school year. Whether you’re just beginning your journey here at ECU or navigating the final stretch toward graduation, we encourage you to take full advantage of everything this campus and community have to offer. Make the best of it!

That might mean joining a new student organization, exploring leadership opportunities, or finding your voice in a new way. It could also mean showing your Pirate pride at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium, discovering a favorite study spot in Joyner Library, or simply making time to connect with friends over coffee.

And if you’re looking for a place to share your voice, creativity, and perspective, consider getting involved with The East Carolinian! From writing and photography to design and social media, there are countless ways to contribute and make your mark on campus. We highly recommend it (and we aren’t biased, promise).

College is not just about classes; it’s about finding your place, building a community, and stepping outside your comfort zone. It’s about the moments when you discover a passion you didn’t know you had, and the small victories that make you proud of how far you’ve come. We encourage you to embrace this new school year with curiosity, determination, and an open mind. Challenges are a part of the journey. Take risks and surround yourself with people who inspire you.

We wish you a year filled with success, growth, and new experiences. Cheers to another great year or first year at ECU.

PIRATE RANTS

I don’t know why the student center parking went up. $1 is enough. There is no reason why we should even have to pay to park at a central school building.

No on campus job pays well. You’re better off just finding somewhere to work around Greenville.

Why is there constant construction on every street in Greenville? I have to take an entirely different route every month for absolutely no reason because the city wants to destroy and rebuild roads so often.

ECU Panhellenic allowing some sororities to do open house events while not broadcasting that opportunity to all of them is considered dirty rushing. It should have been communicated to all 11 sororities in order to keep recruitment fair, and not allow certain chapters to be put at an advantage.

The bars downtown are way too crowded. We need a way to limit the amount of students let inside.

Why are there no good food options in the student center? Maybe instead of Canes they could do something good like Chipotle or Cava. And there is no reason why Chick-fil-a should be so far away when it’s one of the most well-liked food options.

and who they might know through that.

As an incoming college freshman, there is often fear and uncertainty surrounding the start of a new era of life and higher education. Now as a rising senior and with the start of back to school I found it fitting to share some things I’ve learned along the way and that I wish I knew coming into my college career. I’ve broken it down into five main areas of focus: networking, time management, uncertainty when choosing a major, campus resources, and the practice of being present.

At first, networking can be a daunting idea especially for those who have social anxiety. Ultimately it is an essential part to getting the most out of your college experience. It is important to talk to any and everyone that you can, friends, classmates, professors, advisors, administrators, coaches, athletes, and alumni are all resources that are at your fingertips. You just have to reach out and capitalize on them.

Oftentimes when thinking about the professional world the quote “it’s not what you know it’s who you know” is thrown around. I find that to be the truth and that is why it is important to communicate and build relationships with as many people as possible. You never know what someone is doing in their own professional endeavors

Dear ECU,

I am happy to welcome you all back!

My name is Trisha, I am the Editorin-Chief of The East Carolinian. I’m studying public health, with aspirations of attending medical school.

Although journalism hasn’t been the central focus of my college experience, writing has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember. I wrote for my middle and high school newspapers so continuing in college felt natural. I began writing for The East Carolinian my sophomore year and served as the section editor for News last year. This role has been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to build valuable connections and develop communication skills that I’ll carry with me for life.

My favorite part about writing for the paper is the opportunity to meet people I never expected to and share their stories with the public. I’ve met business owners, medical and dental school faculty, professors, nationally-acclaimed researchers, athletes, artists, and many more. The conversations I’ve had with these people have broadened my understanding of various fields and expanded my knowledge in many ways. I’m thrilled

A willingness to communicate and build relationships opens doors that you could never imagine. It is also important to remember that relationships go both ways. Extending your resources and connections to others will also serve you well. So don’t be scared, talk to everyone, send emails and linkedin invites, and book appointments with those above you. It can do nothing but work to your benefit in the long run.

It is so easy to get wrapped up in all of the things surrounding college. Night life, Greek life, thousands of new faces, and a new city can all serve as distractions that take you away from the main goal. Your education.

This is not to say that any of these things are negative, but they can be if you allow them to. Focus on the main goal, what you’re paying thousands of dollars to do. Get your assignments in early and plan ahead so you can enjoy all of the other things that come with college life.

It is important to know that you do not have to have it all figured the first day you step on campus. You have time to get to know yourself, form goals, and choose the major which is best for you. It is okay

to step into the role of Editor-in-Chief and continue growing this publication. Your college experience is what you decide to make of it so I encourage you to explore the countless opportunities that ECU offers. One of those opportunities you may be interested in exploring is The East Carolinian itself. Whether you’re a writer, sports fanatic, photographer, graphic designer, or just someone who’s curious about the stories shaping campus, The East Carolinian has a place for you. We are a student-run publication, meaning every story we write, every photo we publish, and every page we design is created by students for students.

Tryouts for the East Carolinian are September 2nd to 4th 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and September 5th from 9 a.m. to noon. We would love to see you there!

Even if you don’t see yourself contributing directly, we hope you’ll pick up a copy of the paper, follow us online, and stay engaged with what’s happening around you. Our job is to keep the campus informed and inspired, and we hope to do that with each and every one of you.

to change your mind and to even have no idea in which direction you want to take your education. Remember you have time, if you work towards finding your sense of direction and purpose daily everything will work out.

Most people are unaware of the amount of resources that are available to you as a student. Clubs, internships, interest meetings, counseling, health care, and social events are available for every student and every major. Take advantage of them all, they can only push you closer to your goals in the long run.

Whether you know it or not, time flies, so enjoy every moment. Soak it all in and take advantage of every second. Live the best life you possibly can because we can never go back. Now is the time in your life that you have the most freedom. College is a short period of time in our lives. It is important that we make the most of it while we can.

Arts & Entertainment

TODAY

Glow and Flow: A Spa and Soul Night In

The Dickinson Event Space

2791 Dickinson Ave Suite 104, Greenville, NC 27858

6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Open Mic Night at Strangebird Strangebird

718 Dickinson Avenue, Greenville, NC 27858

5:00 PM to 7:00 PM

GSingo & Karaoke Night

Buccaneer Music Hall

2120 E Fire Tower Rd, Greenville, NC 27858

8:00 PM to 11:30 PM 252-756-5505

Wine & Design Specialty Days

Wine and Design 808 Dickinson Ave, Greenville, NC 27858

6:30 PM to 8:30 PM 252-321-1200

Work by Tim Bower

ECU Wellington B. Gray Gallery 5th Street, Greenville, NC 27858

10:00 AM to 5:00 PM 252-328-6665

TOMORROW

Dalton Davis Full Band

Buccaneer Music Hall

2120 E Fire Tower Rd, Greenville, NC 27858

10:00 PM to 11:30 PM 252-756-5505

Morgan Hudson & Company LIVE ALBUM RECORDING SHOW

Nash Hot Chicken 114 East 5th Street, Greenville, NC 27858

8:00 PM to 11:00 PM 252-999-5444

Museum Tour at GMoA

Greenville Museum of Art

802 Evans Street, Greenville, NC 27858

3:00 PM to 4:00 PM 252-758-1946

FAR Beyond The Beyond:

The Evolution of James Augustus McLean

Greenville Museum of Art

802 Evans Street, Greenville, NC 27858

10:00 AM to 4:30 PM 252-758-1946

SATURDAY

Celtic Music Session

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 401 East Fourth St., Greenville, NC 27858

1:30 PM to 4:00 PM 252-752-3482

Greenville Horror Fest Holiday Inn

203 W. Greenville Boulevard, Greenville, NC 27834

10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Woah 90’s Full Band

Buccaneer Music Hall

2120 E Fire Tower Rd, Greenville, NC 27858

10:00 PM to 11:30 PM

252-756-5505

ECU hosts Greek Fest 2025 on The Lawn

Candon Johnson TEC STAFF

After what feels like a long and much needed summer, ECU is back on track as they host Greekfest 2025. This event helps introduce students to Greek life and act as a preview of what ECU has to offer. The event is scheduled for Monday, August 25th on the Main Campus Student Center Lawn, from 11am-1pm. This event offers students an abundance of information about Greek Life, and allows them to create connections for their upcoming semester.

Greek life is a huge part of most colleges and it offers a lot to incoming freshmen. They provide opportunities for friendship and networking, as well as opportunities unique to their individual chapters. If you’re unsure of whether or not to join, and want more information, East Carolina University’s annual Greekfest has you covered.

Greek Life is made up of many different fraternities and sororities that are all looking for new members to join their chapters. There are 41 Greek Life organizations on campus, consisting of 17 Interfraternity Council fraternities,

five multicultural fraternities and sororities, eight National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) fraternities and sororities, and 11 Panhellenic sororities.

Greek life at ECU originally started in 1958 and has been going strong for 67 years. Now with a total of 41 organizations, the future for ECU’s Greek life organizations looks as bright as ever with each chapter eager to expand and grow even more.

New Cracker Barrel logo draws criticism

Amber Sutton TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE

There are a lot of folks who are unhappy with the look of Cracker Barrel’s new logo, and it seems AL.com readers are among them.

In case you missed it, Cracker Barrel, the Tennessee-based restaurant chain known for its country store and Southern cooking, this week revealed a new logo — the first in 47 years — that no longer features its iconic barrel and Uncle Herschel. Conservative influencers were quick to voice their disapproval.

The new logo comes along with a remodel to Cracker Barrel’s restaurants, which are adding booth seating, brighter lighting and seemingly less decor.

AL.com recently took to Facebook to see how followers felt about the new logo and changes, and with nearly 2,500 comments, the response could best be summed up as “not good.”

While the overwhelming reaction was dislike for the simplified logo, it’s worth mentioning that others said they were indifferent. However, it was difficult to find any comments willing to voice their support for the change.

You can read some of the responses below, and you can read all of them on AL.com’s Facebook page.

“It looks like it would put raisins in the potato salad.” — Dan Elle

“My 2-year-old could have drawn a better looking logo.” — Anna Walton

“Did they create that with an Etch-A-Sketch?”

— Chris Mileski

“I get that the shape is a sideways barrel, but it looks like a lot of extra yellow space.” — Holly Clifton

“Just don’t mess with the hashbrown casserole!”

— Kevin Plue

“Looks like a giant Band-Aid!” — Lori Turner

“They probably spent millions to develop a sign no one would be offended by.” — Allison Ayers

“It looks as stale as those biscuits, no cap.” — Imari J. Pharris

“Very generic! It’s like McDonald’s and Panera Bread had a baby!” — Regina’Alexander Cefalo’Nick Cefalo

“Old Southern saying seems to come to mind here...if it ain’t broke, why try to fix it?” — Becky

Shook Vaughn

“Will forever be known now as bottom of the barrel!” — Troy Font

“The entire change is a bad idea! Who in that company fell off the turnip truck?!” — Margaret Holley Baca

“I like it so much, I’ll be spending my money at Waffle House.” — Dave Bachman

“Their very own Bud Light moment.” — Bryan Whitehead

“It is ‘New Coke’ for this generation...” — Stephen Rountree

“They lost me when they took hamburger steak off the menu.” — Annie Michelle Andersen

“Who cares as long as the food stays good.” — Frank Sitera

“I don’t go to restaurants based on the logo.” — Kieran Brown

“Like 99% of us...no one cares. It’s a logo.” — Brian Finkelstein

Speedway day of giving spreads cheer across the community

CONCORD — Staying true to Speedway Motorsports’ core principle of serving the community, volunteers from Charlotte Motor Speedway, The Speedway Club, Levy Restaurants, Performance Racing Network and Speedway Children’s Charities — known as the Pit Crew — traded their usual track duties for a day of giving back to the communities they call home. On Wednesday, more than 70 volunteers dedicated over 300 hours, rolling up their sleeves to make a meaningful difference across Cabarrus County.

Volunteers spread out across four local nonprofits, bringing energy and care to organizations needing help with everything from refreshing gardens and repairing facilities to building ramps, organizing spaces and assembling Bags of Hope and Sensory Kits.

At Wings of Eagles Ranch, a facility that provides therapeutic horseback riding for youth and families, teammates helped repair a pergola, refresh the community garden, upgrade a therapy room entry and tend to the lawn. Volunteers also served as “sidewalkers,” walking alongside riders to provide physical and emotional support during lessons, helping ensure the ranch remains a safe and welcoming space.

Coltrane LIFE Center

Speedway volunteers brightened up the garden and landscaping and played bingo and other games with the participants at the Coltrane LIFE Center.

At the Concord location of the Piedmont Residential Development Center, a nonprofit supporting residents with severe mental and physical disabilities, volunteers tackled interior painting, general repairs and landscaping, creating a refreshed and welcoming environment for residents.

Volunteers at Present Age Ministries Restoration Market, a faith-based organization combating sexual abuse, exploitation and trafficking of teenage girls, received improvements that enhanced accessibility and organization. Members of the Pit Crew built shelving, constructed a ramp and upgraded outdoor planters, helping staff and visitors navigate and utilize the space more efficiently.

Lugnut

Even Lugnut got in on the volunteer action.

At Coltrane LIFE Center, teammates helped to brighten the facility’s garden while connecting with seniors, spending time playing Bingo, and engaging in other activities — bringing joy and companionship to residents throughout the day.

Bags of hope

Speedway volunteers on campus dedicated their efforts to assembling 50 Bags of Hope and preparing 60 sensory kits for neurodivergent guests who visit throughout the year.

At the Charlotte Motor Speedway campus, volunteers dedicated their efforts to assembling 50 Bags of Hope and preparing 60 sensory kits for neurodivergent guests who visit America’s Home for Racing throughout the year.

What the community is saying

Susan McKee, Speedway Motorsports Pit Crew coordinator

“Service Day is more than a day of volunteering — it’s our team coming together to share time, care and energy with the people and organizations that need it most. Seeing the impact we can make in our community, and the smiles and support we help bring, is why this day is so meaningful to all of us.”

Christine Cronin, Wings of Eagles Ranch founder & executive director

“Having Charlotte Motor Speedway out here is unbelievable for Wings of Eagles Ranch. It is because of volunteers that this place looks like it does. Everything here has been done by volunteers. When you guys come out, the project list gets very long because I know what you guys can accomplish in a short amount of time, and of course, today, you guys nailed it again and accomplished such big projects for us that would take us days to get done, and we can’t thank you guys enough.”

Classifieds & Puzzles

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF UNCLAIMED PROPERTY

The East Carolina University Police Department gives notice that certain items of unclaimed property have been in possession of the police department for over 180 days. These items were found, confiscated, or seized during lawful investigations and included various types of property such as but not limited to scooters, skateboards, documents, duffel bags/book bags, suitcases, keys, wallets/purses, electronics, car stereo equipment, clothing, power/hand tools, home décor, home improvement items, U.S. currency, Polymer80 handguns, Ruger handgun,

Editors Note

Glock handguns, Canik55 handgun, Kimber handgun, Smith & Wesson handguns, Taurus handguns, Stevens shotgun, HatsanArms Co shotgun and bicycles. Some matters concern property in which the case has been disposed of in the judicial system and the property is no longer considered evidence in this matter. Persons who may be entitled thereof are required by law to make such a claim within (30) days of this notice. Owners may contact the ECU Police Department at (252) 737-4106 or (252) 3286787 or in person at 609 East 10th Street, Greenville, NC.

A description of the property along with the serial number or reasonable proof of ownership

will need to be provided in order to claim property. After (30) days, the property will be administratively forfeited and disposed of according to law. Property items of value that remain unclaimed will be turned over for auction to Property.room.com, all bicycles not claimed will be donated to non-profit charities and all remaining items will be destroyed.

References: N.C.G.S. 15-11.1, N.C.G.S. 15-12 through 15-16

First Date of Notice: August 25, 2025

Last Date of Claim: September 25, 2025

Unfortunately, Nancy Black has retired and we will no longer be displaying horoscope information. We are sorry to see it go and wish her the best.

Jacqueline E. Mathews

The East Carolinian Sports experts predict this week’s events

Garett Skillman

TEC Sports Editor

ECU VS. NC State Score Prediction?

ECU 35-28

Why?

Give me the Pirates to go back to back against the Wolfpack and start the season off strong. A full season with Blake Harrell as head coach and a full off-season with Katin Houser named the starting quarterback gives me a ton of confidence that ECU will have a shot at winning the American this year. I think NC State will strike first but once the rivalry nerves cool down the Pirates will settle in on the road

ECU VS. NC State Score Prediction?

ECU 24-17

Why?

Football season is back and the Pirates are ready for round two of this rivalry matchup. ECU’s high powered offense led by Katin Houser, Anthony Smith, and Yannick Smith is going to waltz into Carter-Finley Stadium and put in work. The Pirates are ready to hand out the same treatment as we did in December. All signs show that Blake Harrell has this team prepared, give me the Pirate’s.

Nick Green WZMB Sports & News Director

ECU VS. NC State Score Prediction?

ECU 35-31

Why?

The boys are back and the Pirates are coming in hot. After beating the Wolfpack in the military bowl to end last season, this is one of the most anticipated games the Pirates have had in recent history. The offense has been cooking and it’s time to show the Pirates are for real and double down on the win from December.

Women’s Soccer Watch List Honors

East Carolina University’s soccer team had three players featured in the American Conference women’s soccer watch list.

Senior midfielder Isabella Gutiérrez, Senior forward Juliana Viera, and Sophomore forward Caitlen-Star Dolan Boodram were the three names listed. The Pirates were also projected to finish fourth in the conference in the same article posted by the American.

Coming off an American Conference title in 2024, the Pirates will look to go back to back. This time they will be doing it with newly hired head Coach Emily Buccilla who previously served as the ECU’s assistant coach for seven seasons. She was named the Head Coach in December of 2024.

ECU lost nine seniors and a handful of transfers during the offseason, despite bringing in five new freshmen and four transfers. The Pirates will be looking for their returning veterans to step into bigger roles. Gutiérrez and Viera being named captains for the 2025 season marks the start of a new era for East Carolina Soccer.

Despite battling injuries throughout her ECU career Gutiérrez has proven to be a proficient passer and scorer for the Pirates. She has appeared in 24 total matches over her time in Greenville. She has also served for her home country of Mexico in the FIFA under 20 world cup in 2022.

Viera, since transferring to East Carolina in 2023 has appeared in 32 matches and started in 23 of them. Last season she was tied for most assists on the team with four and earned American Conference Third Team honors. The Montevideo native also

served time this summer with the Uruguayan national team in the 2025 Copa America Femenina.

Dolan Boodram appeared in 20 matches with nine starts for the Pirates last season. She notched three goals last season earning American Conference All Freshman Team honors. The London native has shown great upside in her collegiate career so far and will be provided with additional opportunities to shine in 2025.

East Carolina currently holds a record of (0-2-1, 0-0-0 AC). By the time this article is released the Pirates will have already played their match against Virginia Commonwealth University (0-1-2, 0-0-0 Atlantic 10 Conference) on Aug, 24. Their next matchup will be against The University of North Carolina Wilmington (2-1-0, 0-0-0 Coastal Athletic Association) here in Greenville at Johnson Stadium on Tuesday. The match will kick off at 6 p.m. and will be broadcasted on ESPN+.

Preseason Poll

Memphis (6) – 96

South Florida (4) – 94

Rice – 76

East Carolina (1) – 64

North Texas – 63

Tulsa – 48

UAB – 47

UTSA – 38

Florida Atlantic – 36

Charlotte – 33

Temple – 10

Preseason Watch List

Abbey Burns, Sr., M, UAB

Louise Larsson, So., D, UAB

Jette Zimmer, Sr., F, UAB

Amelia Brown, Sr., M, Charlotte

Evie Craven, Jr., F, Charlotte

Laura Cate, Westerbeek, Sr., D, Charlotte

Caitlen-Star Dolan Boodram, So., F, East Carolina

Isabella Gutiérrez, Sr., M, East Carolina

Juliana Viera, Sr., F, East Carolina

Daniella Diaz, Sr., D, Florida Atlantic

Michelle Horan, Sr., F, Florida Atlantic

Morgan McDonald, Sr., M/F, Florida Atlantic

Ashley Henderson, Jr., F, Memphis

Ai Kitagawa, So., M, Memphis

Finley Lavin, Jr., D/M, Memphis

Mia Bernard, Jr., M, North Texas

Abi Major, Sr., D, North Texas

Rachel Roebuck, Gr., F/D, North Texas

Eileen Albers, Jr., M, Rice

Leah Chancey, Gr., M, Rice

Lilly Reuscher, So., D, Rice

Gentiana Fetaj, Sr., F/M, South Florida

Leire Herraez Gallach, Sr., GK, South Florida

Sadie Sider-Echenberg, Sr., M, South Florida

Shari Atkins, Jr., F, Temple

Valentina Bitterwolf, Fr., M, Temple

Teagan Harkins, Fr., F, Temple

Jasmine Kessler, Jr., GK, UTSA

Zoe May, Sr., M, UTSA

Michelle Polo, Jr., M, UTSA

Aniya Facen, So., F, Tulsa

The East Carolina University Men’s Basketball team released their 2025-2026 non-conference schedule on Friday via ECU Media Relations. The Pirates are coming off a successful 2024-2025 campaign in which they improved their record from 15-18 in 2023 to 19-14 last season and finished sixth in the American Athletic Conference standings.

ECU crafted a daunting non-conference schedule which includes two powerhouse programs in the University of North Carolina Chapel-Hill and Michigan State University. Michigan State is coming off a strong season which culminated in an Elite Eight NCAA tournament appearance where they fell to Auburn University.

Some would say Chapel-Hill is coming off a down season compared to their previous years, which for their standards is true, but still got a bid to the NCAA tournament where they ultimately lost to the University of Mississippi in the first round of the NCAA tournament. These two games will be challenges for the Pirates as they haven’t faced a Big 10 conference opponent or Atlantic Coast Conference opponent in some time. ECU opens their season at Minges Coliseum in Greenville, N.C. on Nov. 4 against Georgia Southern University. The following four games will alternate between home and away with the University of Richmond on Nov. 8, and The University of North Carolina at Wilmington on Nov. 18 being on the road, and Elizabeth City State University playing on Nov. 13, and Charleston Southern being hosted in Greenville on Nov. 21st..

The Pirates will then head to Fort Meyers, Florida for the Fort Meyers tip off. Michigan State will be their first opponent on Nov. 25th then follow it up against St. Bonaventure University on Nov. 27th. The Pirates will then head back to Greenville for a five game homestand against University of Maryland Eastern Shore on Dec. 2nd, University of North Carolina at Greensboro on Dec. 6th, Appalachian State University on Dec. 11th, University of Buffalo Dec. 14th, and Presbyterian College on Dec. 17th. ECU will then wrap up non-conference play against

FOOTBALL

continued from A3

Week 10 – Nov 15 vs The University of Memphis Memphis is always a dangerous opponent, and this could be one of ECU’s toughest home games of the year. The Tigers traditionally bring an explosive passing attack, so ECU’s safeties will play major roles. For the Pirates offense, Houser will need to make quick decisions and take advantage of Memphis’s aggressive defense with intermediate throws to tight ends Conner and Riles. This

could turn into a shootout under the lights in Greenville.

Week 11 – Nov 22 at The University of Texas at San Antonio

Traveling to San Antonio, Texas late in the season will be a major test of ECU’s depth. UTSA has emerged as one of the AAC’s top programs, and their fast, physical style will challenge ECU in all phases of the game. The Pirates best chance is to control time of possession with Gunn and Jenkins running behind a veteran offensive line. Defensively, edge contain and linebacker play will be critical against UTSA’s dual-threat quarterback.

Week 12 – Nov 29 at Florida Atlantic University

The regular-season finale takes the Pirates to Boca Raton Florida, where bowl eligibility could be on the line. FAU has elite speed on the roster, so ECU’s defensive backs will be tested. On offense, Houser’s chemistry with his receivers at this point in the season will be the key in stretching the field. Closing the season strong on the road would be a big step forward for Blake Harrell’s program.

This writer can be contacted at sports@theeastcarolinian.com.

This writer can be contacted at sports@theeastcarolinian.com.