TheEast
ECU Kicks Off a New Semester Carolinian
The Spring 2025 semester at ECU begins on Tuesday, Jan.13, with an estimated 27,000 students enrolled, according to the Registrar’s Office. Similar to Spring 2024, Spring Break will last one week, running from Sunday, March 9 to Sunday, March 16th.
Classes for the Spring 2025 semester end on April 29, with final exams beginning on Thursday, May 1st. Exams conclude on Thursday, May 8, and the Commencement for 2025 will take place on Friday, May 9. Registration for Summer and Fall 2025 classes begins on Monday, March 31.
In a post on the ECU Campus Rec & Wellness Instagram page it was revealed that the 29th annual Polar Plunge will be held on Jan. 23 from 6pm to 8pm at the Eakin Recreation Center. The Office of Student Affairs expects around 1,000 students to continue the tradition and jump in the outside pool. The event will also have a DJ, food and t-shirts.
In a sponsorship package released by ECU Office of Student Affairs it was revealed that Barefoot on the Mall will be held on April 29, 2025 at the ECU Campus Mall, however, the time is still unknown. The event will include food trucks, inflatables, giveaways, and musical acts. ECU Office of Student Affairs expects over 6,000 students to attend the event.
Information on upcoming events at ECU can be found on the ECU website and the various ECU social media platforms.
tions. Garcia would go on to average two interceptions per game in his six starts.
The 2024 season was an eventful one for East Carolina University football. The Pirates, starting out slow, made a head coach and quarterback change mid season that would alter the trajectory of their season. ECU showed in this 2024 season that they were willing to do whatever it takes to win.
The Pirates opened the season as the projected seventh seed in the American Athletic Conference under Head Coach Mike Houston. Despite the ranking, Pirate fans were optimistic with the addition of junior transfer quarterback Jake Garcia. Coming off a 2-10 season in 2023, ECU was desperate for results.
In the season opener the Pirates took a dominant 42-3 victory over Norfolk State University (4-8, 2-3 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference). In this game Garcia threw for 308 yards, four touchdowns and three interceptions. This performance, although coming in a blow out win, set the pace for what we would see from Garcia during the rest of his time as the Pirates starting QB, intercep-
Garcia would remain the starter for five more games after the opener. In that stretch the Pirates would go 2-3, With wins over Old Dominion (5-7, 4-4 in Sun Belt Conference) and University of Texas San-Antonio (7-6, 4-4 in AAC). Losses would come at the hands Of Appalachian State University (5-6, 3-5 In SBC) , University of North Carolina Charlotte (5-7, 4-4 in AAC), and Liberty University (8-4, 5-3 in Conference USA).
Garcia would ultimately be replaced as the starter by sophomore transfer quarterback Katin Houser ahead of the seventh game of the season against Army West Point (12-2, 8-0 AAC) . Throughout his stint as the starter, Garcia recorded 1426 passing yards, 8 passing touchdowns, and 12 interceptions with a completion percentage of 60%.
Entering their week seven matchup against Army, head coach Mike Houston would be coaching for his job. With Houser at the helm for his first start with ECU, the Pirates hoped to pull off an upset against their undefeated con-
ference foe but were unsuccessful. ECU lost that night by a score of 45-28, leaving the Pirates with a 3-4 record heading into the back half of the season. The next day coach Houston was fired amidst his sixth season with ECU. Defensive coordinator Blake Harrell would later get the nod for the interim job. These two moves would lead to a fairy tale second half of the year for the Pirates. They would go on to win four of their next five games securing an above .500 record and bowl game eligibility. Wins came over Temple University (3-9, 2-6 AAC), Florida Atlantic University (3-9, 1-7 AAC), University of Tulsa (3-9, 1-7 AAC), and University of North Texas (6-7, 3-5 AAC), With a loss to the United States Naval Academy (10-3, 6-2 AAC) in the last regular season game. Ahead of the Navy game, ECU decided to drop the interim tag and name Blake Harrell the school's 23rd head coach. East Carolina finished the regular season with a record of 7-5.
> FOOTBALL page A6
As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve.” On January 20, 2025, we commemorate Martin Luther King Jr. and all he sacrificed for his community. Reflecting on his memory, we are reminded to give back to our own. Each year, the city of Greenville hosts various events to encourage the public to participate in his honor. One event is the Center for Leadership and Civic Engagement’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service which will take place on Saturday, January 18. This event begins with a keynote address given by Roger Newell, assistant director in the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities. This event will be held at the Main Campus Student Center Blackbox Theatre at 9 a.m.
“Students will travel to various volunteer sites across the city to volunteer for two hours, in the spirit of Dr. King’s legacy of giving back to your community”, said Alex Dennis, senior assistant director of CLCE. There are several different volunteer sites which include Macgregor Downs Health and Rehab facility, Greenville Community Garden, Greenville Montessori School, Friends of Greenville Greenways, NC Support our Troops, Rebuilding Together Pitt County, and the Ronald McDonald House.
It is worth noting that some sites have specific dress requirements, or a separate volunteer form or link you must complete prior to the day of service. Afterwards, students come together for a reflection activity and pick up their free Pirate t-shirts.
If you, or anyone you know is interested in participating in the MLK Day of Service, you can sign up here: https://www.givepulse.com/event/531974MLK-Day-of-Service-2025
Another honorable event is the 28th Annual Community Unity Breakfast to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday and promote diversity initiatives in Greenville-Pitt County. This year’s keynote speaker is Portia Willis, City of Greenville Council Member and Co-Founder of Young Scholars and Leaders Institute, where she strives to protect our neighborhoods and quality of life.
The gathering is a time to reflect on Dr. King’s message over a light breakfast that will be handed out from 7:30 to 7:55 a.m., followed by the program starting promptly at 8:00 a.m. “It’s always amazing to see such a large community turnout for this event. It’s fitting that this commemoration takes place at the beginning of the year, as I believe it sets an inspiring tone for moving forward with kindness and acceptance in our hearts and actions,” said Aileen Peacock, Director of Talent and Events.
This is a free event opened to the public and will be held at the Murphy Center (Harvey Hall) from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.
Dawn Jones, Pitt County Public Information Officer, shared that the county offices will be closed for the observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This allows staff members to participate in various activities of their choosing in his honor. Pitt County is also a Silver Sponsor for the Community Unity Breakfast held on Monday morning.
The city makes it easy for residents to come together and honor MLK’s legacy. Whether it’s volunteering, or attending the Community Unity Breakfast, be a part of the celebration and help give back to your community.
Giuliana Barberio FOR THE EAST CAROLINIAN
GABE KEY I THE EAST CAROLINIAN
Sophomore Linebacker Jackson Barker and teammate celebrating Pirates defensive stop on rival N.C. State in Military Bowl showdown.
GABE KEY I THE EAST CAROLINIAN
Senior wide reciever Kelan Robinson first touchdown called back late.
Pirate nurse selected for White House Fellows program
Dr. Michael Kennedy, an acute care nurse practitioner from Morehead City, was announced as a member of the 2024-25 class of White House Fellow. The White House Fellows program was founded in 1964 to help allow young leaders to work at the government's highest level.
Kennedy is from Eastern North Carolina, Morehead City, and has completed all her schooling in the Tar Heel State. She has attended Lenoir Community College, Barton College, East Carolina University and Duke University.
Kennedy believes she was chosen to be a part of the program because of the location of her studies and work, the rural South of the United States. Her goal is to return to Eastern North Carolina and continue her work in her home state.
Pirate Profile: Staff: Ashlee Lancaster
Ashlee Lancaster is a graduate admissions specialist at East Carolina University and grew up in the town of Level Cross. Ashlee joined ECU in 2016 to try to make a difference in other people’s lives after transitioning from working at Cracker Barrel. After starting in ECU medicine, she transferred to the graduate school in 2019, where she helps students with the application process. A big part of Ashlee’s job is to offer advice such as exploring programs before students fully apply.
As a 2017 Treasured Pirate award recipient, Ashlee values her coworkers and takes pride in helping students.Inspired by her involvement in implementing a new computer system to her office, she has decided to pursue a bachelor's degree in computer science at ECU.
CORRECTIONS & CLARIFICATIONS
If you feel there are any factual errors in this newspaper, please contact editor@theeastcarolinian.com.
New year, new goals
ECU community share their resolutions for 2025
Pel Law FOR THE EAST CAROLINIAN
As 2025 begins, we asked individuals across East Carolina University’s campus about their new year's resolutions.
"My new year's resolution is to become stronger. I lift weights and I want to become stronger to help manage my back pain."
"My resolution is to stay on track academically, personally and mentally."
"My resolution is to be healthier, get better sleep and just take better care of myself."
“I really just want to feel more like I'm living this semester and not just waking up, going to class, going to work and going back. I want to make time for things that I like, intentionally setting aside time to make sure that I'm doing something at least once a week that brings me a little bit of joy.”
"My resolution is to get back into my fitness life."
"To be more positive and have a brighter outlook on just everything in general."
and
"My resolution is to just eat better, exercise, do better and make it through this last year."
"I want to travel more, spend more time outdoors and read my Bible more."
"My resolution is to budget more and save money."
"I'll make the best of this year that I can—get good grades, make my parents proud and honor God. Honoring God is really important."
Kenny, Junior, Architectural Design
Why California's wind is blowing so hard in January
Lisa M. Krieger THE MERCURY NEWS| TNS
In the hours before fierce Santa Ana winds rushed through the canyons of Los Angeles, igniting homes and claiming lives, we felt Diablo winds here.
But they just created ripples in mud puddles. They stirred the heavy leaves on soggy trees. They warmed our yards and sent fresh breezes through the air, slightly scented with the perfume of early manzanita and daffodil blossoms.
“The same weather system that generates Santa Ana winds also produces Diablo winds, often 12 to 24 hours earlier,” said atmospheric scientist Neil Lareau of the University of Nevada in Reno. In the coming days, we’ll continue to see stronger northeast winds around the Bay Area.
But there is a key difference: We’ve had rain, and Los Angeles hasn’t. That’s created conditions for the deadly inferno in Southern California. As of Friday, the Los Angeles County fires had killed at least 11 people, destroyed at least 9,000 structures and forced more than 100,000 people to evacuate.
The Diablo and Santa Ana winds, officially classified as a foehn wind condition, are an age-old meteorological phenomenon.
Just as water tends to seek its own level, so air wants to equalize its pressure, flowing from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure, said Jan Null of Golden Gate Weather Services.
“Everything’s trying to reach equilibrium,” he said.
The winds are conceived in the deserts of the northern Great Basin, where high pressure builds. This strong high-pressure system is more common during the cooler weather season.
Then they race west toward the troughs of low-pressure regions along the California coast. Dubbed “inside sliders,” they drop down the flanks of the Sierra, picking up speed.
Then they funnel through mountain passes, such as Southern California’s Soledad Pass, Cajon Pass and San Gorgonio Pass, where the so-called Venturi effect accelerates their speed. They also contribute to large offshore waves on the coast and potentially dangerous conditions.
Winds on Wednesday night gusted between 50 and 70 miles per hour at lower elevations, peaking at 80 to 100 miles per hour in the Santa Monica Mountains — the equivalent of a robust Category 1 hurricane.
Recent winds were so strong that they crested and descended the San Gabriel Mountains and didn’t just rush through passes, according to Lareau.
“The winds are at the upper end of the spectrum for Santa Ana winds but not unprecedented or outside of our range of expectations,” Lareau said.
A similar phenomenon is seen in other mountainous areas around the world. In the Rocky Mountains, it’s called a Chinook wind; in the Alps, it is called favogn; in the Andes, it’s called a puelche.
Haley, Graduate Student, Library and Information Science
Vanessa, Junior, Community and Regional Planning
Andrés, Senior, Exercise Physiology
Samantha, Alumna, Biology
Science Education
Kamisha, Senior, Public Health
Asia, Second-Degree Seeking Student in Chemistry
Aurora, Graduate Student, Library Science
Brody, Sophomore at Innovation Early College High School Bri, Junior, Social Work
WALLY SKALIJ
Joy Schroeder spraying water in attempt to save her brothers house in Pacific Palisades, California.
Opinion
OUR VIEW
New semester is a new start
It is now January which means a start to the new year and cold weather. With students coming back to campus the stress of the new semester looms over our heads, but it should not be that way.
We, the editorial staff of The East Carolinian, believe that a new semester signals a fresh start. For students, faculty, and staff, a new year gives us a chance to reflect on the past year, and embrace the possibilities ahead. The editorial staff encourages the Pirate community to make the most of the new year.
The new semester is more than just a change in the calendar year, it’s a chance to realign our goals. Whether you’re a first-year student, or senior preparing for a transition into the professional world, this is the best time to look at what’s working and what needs improvement. For student’s, we suggest setting attainable goals to maintain a balance of academic success and quality of life.
Student’s can explore campus resources like the Pirate Academic Success center, Student Health Services, or the many organizations that help make Pirate nation what it is. Prioritizing mental and physical health are stepping stones to starting off the new semester on the right foot. Although winter can be a depressing few months, engaging with ECU’s community by attending athletic events, volunteering, and checking on your friends can benefit you and others.
The start of the new semester is a blank page, giving us each an opportunity to make this semester about growing, success, and connecting with one another. As always, the staff at The East Carolinian are here to inform, inspire, and celebrate the achievements of our ECU community.
PIRATE RANTS
As we begin the new year, we must collectively abandon the unrealistic resolutions that are forgotten by January 2nd. We must also work to improve ourselves rather than repeating the same cycle year after year. Here are the practical resolutions that we think are key to a good year filled with achievable personal growth.
First off, you do not need to buy every new Alo workout set, pay $100 a month for pilates lessons, or participate in the 75 hard challenge. However, every single person should innately be aware of their physical health and do what needs to be done to improve it. Humans were not meant to sit around all day long.
The gym is a great place to start. Set goals, accomplish them, and set more goals. Lift weights, cycle, walk, or anything
that deems fit for your lifestyle. After going to the gym for an extended period of time, it becomes part of a daily routine, like brushing your teeth, and your day feels incomplete without it. That’s the goal. People overcomplicate eating to an enormous degree but it is honestly quite simple. A carb, protein, and vegetable in every meal. Start your day off with protein. Eat whole foods whenever possible. You don’t need to give up every food you love, track every calorie, or go on a restricting diet; just be conscious of what you are putting in your body and understand what you should eat to create the best version of yourself. Also it’s worth a mention that many healthy marketed products are just not good for you.
A common ritual for many is waking up, reaching for your phone, and immediately scrolling on Tiktok. The first few moments of waking up is integral for setting yourself up for the rest of your day. When jumping straight on social media,
your brain will be flooded with sensory overload and this can create a lack of focus for the rest of the day. I use social media just as much as the next person, just stay off it as soon as you wake up and try to limit overconsumption whenever possible. It really is that phone!
Lastly, live everyday in a state of gratitude. Thank your lucky stars that you woke up this morning and that you’re even alive. Be grateful that you are educated and healthy. Even if you’re at the lowest point of your life, there is always something to be grateful for. Be self-aware of how you are treating yourself and others around you and learn to self-regulate your emotions. Cut out negativity from your life whether it’s coming from you or other people. These are all extremely powerful tools to understand.
My sources tell me that many college students, those who voted for K. Harris, have become crestfallen over the election outcome. As a result, they have sought emotional solace (following their candidate’s loss) in what are called “coping spaces.” I invite these poor students to consider a better solution. Here, locally, the distressed ECU Pirates may visit the St. Peter’s Catholic Parish (on 5th and Beech Street) for adoration of the Most Holy Eucharist. An hour or two of quiet time with God would do wonders for curing many ills and melancholy. By doing this, anxious students can receive the only true and reliable therapy, from God Himself, truly present in the consecrated Host. Furthermore, this works for ANY mental illness; not just post-election trauma.
Why are the grab-n-go sandwiches at the student center like $12!!! I could get a quarter pounder, fries and a drink for basically the same price at McDonald’s and we already know it’s overpriced as is.
I wish ECU could do construction in uptown/campus when most students aren’t in Greenville. Parking is hard. Get ready for a change. It may not be the one you are hoping for or the one you were told you would get.
Hello and welcome back Pirates. My name is Diego Lerma, and I am the Editorin-Chief for the spring semester.
I have been part of TEC since taking the candidate program in the summer of 2023, entering my junior year. I started as a sports reporter and then as an editor for both news and arts. I am now entering my final semester at ECU and will graduate later this semester with a degree in journalism and media studies.
This year, TEC is celebrating its 100th anniversary since the start of the publication. To celebrate, Cannon Gates and I will be hosting a monthly podcast with former
editors throughout the years. The first episode will be with three former editors who were part of TEC during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Along with a monthly podcast, A Century Long Voyage, we are planning an anniversary luncheon and open house during homecoming week in the Fall. Also, watch for trivia questions on TEC’s social media, as we will give away anniversary items to winners. Make sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram to be up to date with all the news on campus and maybe win a prize.
The spring edition of our magazine, The Hook, will include articles and pictures of the 100 years of TEC. It will be released later
this semester, so be on the lookout for it. Since this is my last semester at ECU, my only goal is to leave TEC in good hands. Since taking the job as editor last semester, we have doubled the number of reporters. Now, as TEC, I want to grow our staff to help improve the quality of our weekly paper. We will host our Pirate Media 1 tryouts on Jan. 21-24. Thank you to everyone who has supported Pirate Media 1 over the years. Stay tuned because we have more to come.
The East Carolinian does not endorse the statements made in Pirate Rants.
Arts & Entertainment
6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
TOMORROW
ECU reminds of sustainability workshop
Candon Johnson TEC STAFF
Since the 90s, East Carolina University (ECU) has implemented various initiatives to promote sustainability on campus and they continue to do so.
will have activities planned for each week of the month in conjunction with protecting the environment.
27858
7:15 PM to 9:30 PM 208-301-8592
Singo - Music Bingo! 5th Street Hardware Restaurant and Taproom 120 W 5th St, Greenville, NC 27858
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM 252-364-8921
Spring 1:
404 S. Evans St., Greenville, NC 27858
Daytime Spring 1: Metalsmithing Basics Emerge Gallery and Art Center
404 S. Evans St., Greenville, NC 27858
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM 252-551-6947
Creative Writers Toolbox
Pitt Community College
1986 Pitt Tech Rd., Winterville, NC 28590
6:00 PM to 9:00 PM 252-493-7317
Toddler Time - A Read & Paint Activity
The Painted Peacock
631 Red Banks Road, Greenville, NC 27858
9:30 AM to 11:00 AM 252-758-1100
WEDNESDAY
B4U Sew Pitt Community College
1986 Pitt Tech Rd., Winterville, NC 28590
6:30 PM to 8:30 PM 252-493-7317
Painting with Gail
6-Week Course
Greenville Museum of Art
802 S. Evans Street, Greenville, NC 27834
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM 252-758-1946
Daytime Spring 1: Intro to Wheel Throwing
Emerge Gallery and Art Center
404 S. Evans St., Greenville, NC 27858
1:30 PM to 3:30 PM 252-551-6947
Advanced Youth Drawing and Painting: Spring Session
Emerge Gallery and Art Center
404 S. Evans St., Greenville, NC 27858
6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
252-551-6947
One of these events is The ECU Sustainability Information Session which is a workshop event in collaboration with the Office for Faculty Excellence. According to Chad Carwein, the Manager of Sustainability for the university, the event is mainly for faculty but anyone can register and attend. The event’s main focus is to inform members of the faculty of the new course designations as well as ways to work sustainability into their curriculum.
The course designations will revolve around environmental issues and ways to keep the environment sustainable. The courses will operate the same way as writing intensive, service learning, and Global Diversity classes.
“These are courses that focus on sustainability regardless of what their subject matter is,” said Carwein in reference to the designations. “As long as it’s focused and built on the topic”
Carwein will present the session through Microsoft Teams Jan. 21 from 1pm to 2pm and will walk through events and programs that the faculty can encourage their students to participate in. For example, Earth Month
Carwein will also be discussing the program’s overall aspects of sustainability when it comes to energy, water, transportation, and dining. He will mention what ECU is doing to help clean up the campus already and what will be done for the future.
According to the ECU Campus Operations website, the Sustainability program has existed since 1990 when ECU first implemented recycling on its campus. This led to the program being responsible for 35% of waste diverted from the area along with a 55% water reduction and a 33% energy reduction since 2003. This reduction was the result of ECU creating baselines for its water and energy consumption.
“We should be incorporating sustainability into everything we do, including every subject that we teach,” said Carwein. “Everyone needs to take responsibility for the sustainability of our campus and this is a great opportunity to learn and spread awareness about that.”
To register for the event, visit https://ecu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/ SV_6xRx0CnRjFJ81YG.
Transfer students Aaron Lutz and McKenzie White, co-presidents of ECU’s Club Boxing, are entering the spring semester with ambitious goals for the club. Their passion for boxing drives them to expand the program, with hopes of competing in local tournaments.
“Know your why,” said Aaron Lutz, a senior majoring in marketing, and one of the presidents of Club Boxing here at East Carolina University. Since becoming president he said he has repeatedly preached this during interest meetings to encourage people to find their reason for wanting to start boxing. He said boxing can offer something unique to everyone, and without “your why” it can be difficult to stay motivated and get through setbacks.
According to Lutz, this club was founded in August of 2009 and has since encouraged members to reflect on their personal motivation in order to work towards their goals. ECU’s Club Boxing provides something different to everyone, and it goes beyond just fighting. Whether it’s to find confidence, relieve stress, or get away from problems, you’ll definitely get something meaningful out of it.
“Club Boxing is a very diverse club, and everyone is there for different reasons,” Lutz said.
“One of our top priorities is creating a welcoming environment for everyone, whether they are beginners or more experienced.”
Lutz transferred as a junior with no prior boxing experience, but the club caught his interest and provided a great opportunity to get involved on campus. He said joining was easy, and
making friends came naturally because, unlike a typical boxing gym, it was student-run and had a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere.
“I was really worried that when I became president, I would have to deal with sexism as a female boxer and leader,” said Mckenzie White, a senior majoring in psychology, and President of Club Boxing. She said she doesn’t have many encounters with it, but when people seem to not take her seriously she confronts them sooner than later. Through this she has found her voice as a leader, and is able to show she has just as much authoritative power as any other officer in the club.
Confidence was another huge attribute she gained from joining Club Boxing. White said that during her time boxing she’s learned you have to be confident in what you’re doing, because if you hesitate, you get hit. She now applies these lessons to her everyday life, and it has made her more self assured.
After transferring to ECU last year, she said she was looking for a club to join, and despite not being in a sport since elementary school, this one interested her. She said it’s given her so many friends on campus, and since joining she’s learned it’s a relaxed environment where she can have fun with her friends.
“The club’s favorite time of the week is sparring nights which happen on Thursdays and Fridays,” Lutz said. “You can feel the change in the atmosphere when people come in for sparring.”
A future goal for this club is to build a competitive boxing team in order to send them to competitions. According to Lutz, they have stayed in continuous contact with boxing gyms around the area in hopes of getting members some fight time with experienced boxers. Hopefully we will see some of our ECU boxers competing to
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.
Aries (March 21-April 19) — Today is a 7 — Make repairs. Renovate and remodel under the Cancer Full Moon. Adapt around domestic changes for a few weeks. Nurture your home and family.
Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Today is a 7 — Start another chapter. A two-week Full Moon phase highlights communications, connection and intellectual discovery. Adapt around challenges. Keep channels open. Write, edit and share.
Gemini (May 21-June 20) — Today is a 7 — Make a shift around income and finances. Discover profitable opportunities in new directions under this Cancer Full Moon. Redirect attention toward fresh potential.
Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Today is an 8 — A challenge reorients you. This Full Moon in your sign illuminates new personal directions. Expand boundaries over a few weeks. Develop an inspiring possibility.
currency, Polymer80 handgun, Bryco Arms handgun, Glock handguns, Fabryka Broni handgun, Taurus handgun 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
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — Today is a 6 — Review priorities privately. This Full Moon illuminates the dawn of a two-week introspective phase. Process transitions. Adapt around changes. Consider the past and future.
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Today is a 7 — One social door closes and another opens under this Full Moon. Adapt with community and team changes for two weeks. Share appreciation and salutations.
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) — Today is an 8 — Consider new career opportunities. Make professional changes under the Full Moon. Redirect efforts over the next two weeks toward your talents, passions and purpose.
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) — Today is an 8 — Your exploration changes and adapts. The Full Moon illuminates a shift in your educational direction. Experiment with new concepts for a few weeks.
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: January 13, 2025
Last Date of Claim: February 14, 2025
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) — Today is an 8 — Collaborate for financial growth over the next two weeks following tonight’s Full Moon. Shift directions for changing conditions. Deepen bonds by pulling together.
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Today is a 7 — Make adjustments together over two weeks. Collaborate for shared commitments around changes after tonight’s Full Moon. Adapt for solutions. Love provides foundational strength.
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) — Today is an 8 — Begin a new physical health, work and fitness phase. Adapt practices for changing conditions over the next two weeks illuminated by tonight’s Cancer Full Moon.
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — Today is a 7 — Express your heart, imagination and artistry. Tonight’s Full Moon shines on a transition. Adapt directions with a romance, passion or creative endeavor. Shift perspectives.
by Jacqueline E. Mathews
Jacqueline E. Mathews
Thursday, 1.13.25
ECU men’s basketball mid season recap
The East Carolina University Pirates men’s basketball team (9-7, 1-2 American Athletic Conference) has reached the midseason mark with a 9-7 overall record and a 1-2 standing in the American Athletic Conference (AAC). The season has showcased thrilling victories and narrow defeats, highlighting the team’s competitiveness.
One of the most recent triumphs came in an 80-79 victory over Temple University (9-6, 1-1 American Athletic Conference) on January 8, 2025, where junior forward Jayshayne Woodard scored a season-high 15 points, including the decisive basket with just 10 seconds remaining. Guard RJ Felton also shone with 23 points and 12 rebounds, while forward C.J. Walker contributed 18 points and nine rebounds. This win was a critical response to a tough 78-76 loss to Florida Atlantic University (9-7, 2-1 American Athletic Conference) on January 5, where Walker recorded a double-double with 21 points and 13 rebounds, and Jordan Riley added 19 points and nine rebounds.
The Pirates’ conference play began on December 31, 2024, with a 75-69 loss to the University of South Florida (9-6, 2-0 American Athletic Conference). Riley led the team with 20 points in this outing, supported by Walker and Felton with 16 and 13 points, respectively. However, turnovers proved costly, as ECU gave up 14 that led to 25 points for the Bulls. Despite these setbacks, the season has also featured standout moments, such as the double-overtime win against George Mason University (11-5, 2-1 Atlantic 10 Conference) on November 16, 2024, where ECU secured a 78-77 victory.
Felton delivered an impressive 27-point performance in this thriller, demonstrating the team’s resilience in close contests. RJ Felton’s consistency as a scorer has been massive. His ability to perform under pressure, in close games, has won ECU many tough games that could have gone either way. Players like C.J. Walker and Jordan Riley have complemented Felton well, with Walker contributing significant rebounding and scoring efforts in key moments.
Several players have been key parts
to the Pirates’ performance this season. While RJ Felton has consistently led in scoring, with multiple 20-point games, including his big performance against George Mason. C.J. Walker has been a reliable force in the frontcourt, with several double-doubles. Jordan Riley has also made significant contributions, particularly in conference play, with his 20-point game against South Florida showcasing his scoring and defensive abilities.
Looking ahead, the Pirates are set to face the University of Memphis (12-3, 2-0 American Athletic Conference) on January 11, 2025, as they aim to build on their recent win against Temple and improve their conference standing. With a mix of thrilling victories and challenging losses, ECU’s season thus far has been defined by competitive play and the emergence of key contributors. The team now seeks greater consistency and momentum as they head into the second half of their schedule.
The East Carolina University Baseball team has released their schedule for the 2025 season. It includes 29 games inside Clark-Leclair Stadium, as well as seven games against teams ranked within the preseason top 25 by Perfect Game.
The Pirates are coming off a successful 2024 campaign in which they finished 46-17 and were selected to host a regional in Greenville. After dropping the first game to the Evansville Aces (0-0, 0-0 Missouri Valley Conference) the Pirates would win two games in a row to get a chance at revenge against the Aces. Unfortunately they could not get it done, losing in a win or go home situation, 6-5.
As for the 2025 season, ECU kicks it off with a three game home series against George Mason University (0-0 0-0 Atlantic 10 Conference) from February 14th-16th. The following weekend, The Pirates have one of their biggest
tests of the season with a three game series against the North Carolina Tar Heels (0-0, 0-0 Atlantic Coast Conference).
The three games will happen at different locations. The first game will be played in Greenville on Friday, the second will be played at the Durham
and the third game will be played at Boshamer Stadium in Chapel Hill on Sunday. UNC is coming into this season ranked 19th.
On March 1 and 2, ECU will host Virginia Tech (0-0, 0-0 Atlantic Coast Conference) and Indiana State University (0-0, 0-0 Missouri Valley Conference) in the 22nd annual Leclair Classic. The Pirates will travel back to Durham on Tuesday, March 4th to play Gardner-Webb (0-0, 0-0 Big South Conference) at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park. ECU then hosts another big three game set against the Coastal Carolina University Chanticleers (0-0, 0-0 Sun Belt Conference) from March 7th-9th. Coastal is coming into the season ranked 23rd in the country.
On Dec. 8, it was announced that ECU would face off against in-state rival, North Carolina State (6-7, 3-5 in Atlantic Coast Conference), in the Military Bowl in Annapolis, Maryland. This was a highly anticipated matchup in which the Wolfpack were heavily favored. Ahead of the game, trash talk was recorded by the media on the NC state side. Players, in press conferences, were saying that the matchup was not worthy of the “rivalry” title. A few days later, NC State would find out what the Pirates were made of.
Late in the fourth quarter, ECU would get an 86 yard rushing touchdown from Senior running back Rahjai Harris and an interception from junior defensive back Dontavious Nash to lock down the 26-21 win. At the end of the game both benches cleared and fought leaving a referee cut and bleeding. A somewhat symbolic ending to a game that was a fist fight until the end.
With this victory, ECU secured their first bowl win since 2022 and their first win over NC State since 2016. East Carolina would finish off the year with a record of 8-5 (5-3 AAC), resulting in a fifth place finish in the AAC. As well as their first power four win since 2018.
Following the game, coach Harrell was asked about the comments made by NC
State players prior to the game. He stated “I don’t think you can look at our fans and tell them it’s not a rivalry, its an hour and fifteen minutes up the road, there are a couple other schools that are about that distance away, maybe they should put us on their schedule instead of trying to take our players…we get looked at as the little step brother, that’s fine but these guys are always going to compete and take up the challenge.”
Katin Houser in his seven games as the starter recorded 18 passing touchdowns, 11 interceptions, 2006 passing yards, a 60% completion rate, four rushing touchdowns, and 170 rushing yards. His record as the starter for the Pirates is 5-2. Ultimately proving he is ECU’s QB of the future. Coach Harrell stated after the Military Bowl “He (Houser) plans to be a Pirate for a long time”. As it stands, ECU had the 24th ranked total offense (27th passing, 50th rushing) and 100th total defense (96th pass yards allowed, 94th rushing defense) according to the NCAA. The Pirates are now hot on the recruiting trail and in the transfer portal. ECU will be looking to add the necessary pieces to achieve even greater success than they did in 2024.
PHOEBE GREGG I THE EAST CAROLINIAN Senior guard RJ Felton rises over three defenders for the basket.
PRYOR SHELTON I THE EAST CAROLINIAN
Junior Outfielder Jacob Jenkins-Coward steps up to the plate at Clark-LeClair Stadium. ECU Pirates are eyeing their historic fifth consecutive American Athletic
PRYOR SHELTON I THE EAST CAROLINIAN
Pirates Baseball celebrate Dixon Williams’ deep home run shot.